Kabanata 27
Kabanata 27
.·:*¨༺ ༻¨*:·.
BULLET
Oh, God. I can't believe The Reaper fainted.
Nakaupo ako sa couch, ang ulo ng asawa ay nasa hita. He was a large man but his legs are tucked in a fetal position just to fit him in the damn couch.
Nagkagulo ang lahat sa pagkakahulog niya sa upuan. We all thought he was just kidding but when I knelt, tapped his cheek and I realized he's not responding. I immediately knew he wasn't faking it.
Dinala siya ng mga lalaki sa couch at dali-dali kong kumuha ng mga papel para ipaypay sa mukha niya, nag-aantay na bumalik ang malay.
The meeting continued but I can see the way Tito Zeijan's glancing our way with an amused smile.
And my brother...he embraced me tight a moment ago before I sat to tend my husband. He went back to the meeting but his eyes won't leave mine I started doubting if he really was listening or not.
My heart felt so full, overwhelmed, happy.
Kuya...I have a brother!
I have an idea he's my brother because of the photo Tito Zeij showed me before but hearing the confirmation, plus the fact I have another brother and we were the lost children of the Mancinis shook me to the core.
This wasn't in my cards when I went here.
He smiled at me. I smiled back, my heart racing.
I have a brother. Oh, God. I have a family of my own!
"Later," he mouthed, stopping himself from attacking me with a tight embrace.
I nodded with excitement.
Business first, Bullet. Business first.
Then, after that, you can embrace him whenever you want.
Now, you have to listen so you could hunt down Wyatt Anderson Sr., the asshole who did this all. The asshole who separated me from my family, killed my parents, robbed us of our titles. The man—no, the demon who hurt and traumatized me, my husband and his family.
The asshole who have hurt my Twila Klein.
In my head, I was forming scenarios of everything I would do if I catch him. The torture I would inflict, the blood I would love staining my clothes and his loud screams while I kill him so...slowly.
I didn't know I was fisting my palms tight until Jayden reached for my hand for a gentle squeeze. Bumaling ako sa kanya na nasa kabilang couch kasama si Clau.
They ran to me when my husband fainted, sitting beside me in the other couch for help and comfort. Hindi na sila umalis do'n.
"Breathe," Jayden said lowly.
I released the tension stiffening my shoulders and slowly let go of my fisted palm. Clau smiled gently and nodded at me.
"Dito lang kami," she hummed.
"Thank you," I whispered.
Instead, to distract myself from wanting to kill someone, binuklat ko ang kamay ko at ipinaraan na lang sa buhok ng asawa.
I pulled his ponytail off, slipped it on my wrist and massaged his scalp while fanning his face.
My poor husband.
I can't believe he was deadly in the field but after a revelation involving his boss, he fainted. Just like that.
Damn it, I expected a response but not this.
I glanced at my poor honey.
You must've messed up real bad, huh?
"The illegal trade between both parties were already an old problem to DEA." Tito Zeijan explained. "If we connect the dots—and I assumed it makes sense, Alejandro Buenavides, the former director of DEA had an alliance with the House of Kastrioti before to try and stop the trade."
"Mancinis?" Kuya Levi asked.
"Yes, it was a confidential agreement between two parties to maintain peace. We weren't even informed of this. We only found out recently after we got a hold of Sir Alejandro's files. However, if my hunch is correct, the alliance had stopped shortly after the Mancinis are found dead."
My jaw clenched.
"Sir, are you saying that there is an alliance forming for illegal trade for years now?" The Queen asked.
"Yes, your majesty. I'm afraid they are teaming up with the other houses to try and claim the throne. If it's okay to ask, I would like to confirm if they tried to?"
The prince consort, Sebastian's face hardened. The Queen reached for his hands and squeezed.
I smiled a little then brushed my husband's hair more.
That's maybe what love was.
I wonder if what I feel can be recognized as that.
That slight flutter whenever he's near. The twist in my gut whenever he's looking. Missing him if he's gone and then, killing if someone hurts him or Twinkle.
He said this is love and I was in the process of accepting I really had one.
I have friends, I have a brother. A small, tiny family of three—my husband and his sister, Twila.
I have this possessive feeling of protectiveness. Of care. Of happiness I have someone—something to protect. Something to look forward for in going home.
And they're waiting for me.
The thought excites me.
Ayos lang naman maging masaya, ano? Hindi naman na ito babawiin sa 'kin?
Hindi ko alam kung kakayanin ko pa kung may mangyaring masama sa asawa ko at kay Twinkle.
I stared at his face looking so peaceful and angelic in his sleep. Pero kapag gising kung hindi bastos at medyo gago, p'wede na mag-part time ng comedian.
"Twice," the Queen answered, making me glance at her direction again. "Giovanni was caught trying to kill the former Queen-to-be, Duchess Cathalina and then, during my reign—they manipulated us again and tried to kill me. They were now in prison for treason."
"That confirms it, then," Tito Zeijan nodded. "They wanted to get hold and control Italy while in the sidelines, they are pursuing DEA to widen their scope. Who knows if they succeeded—which will never happen—they would go and try their luck in Malacañang?"
"I'd never let it happen." Mr. President assured, "I will do another round of background check to anyone stepping inside the palace—even the senate and their securities. I will send a report immediately to help."
Tito Zeij smiled, "thank you, Mr. President."
"No worries," he nodded. "I will not allow such people stepping a foot inside the palace while I'm in this position. I'll talk to the chief of police and the armed forces for assistance."
"We'll be honored to extend help, Sir." Tito assured. "Now, I'd like to give the stage to my wife."
Tita Alyx smiled.
"Thank you, Zeij," then she stood where he was earlier and said something to Azul Sandejas.
Pinanuod ko silang may ginagawa sa laptop at nang ibalik nila ang litrato ko kasama ang mga kapatid ay bumigat ang pakiramdam.
I have brothers...I have a family.
I saw one, nasaan na kaya ang isa kong kapatid? Is he okay? Is he happy? Is there someone he could lean on? Someone to help him when he needed it the most?
Jaylan Denardo Mancini.
"To the Mancini heirs," Tita started. "They took the children for leverage. They have sent you to the country and gave you all fake names the first time you're here to avoid detection. They have sent you to a den—disguised as an orphanage."
She explained the connection and maybe I was still so young I couldn't remember it.
Nakatakas sa ampunan ang panganay, which is Kuya Levi who had no recollection of memories aside from his name Levi. Possibly it was because of the trauma he had suffered that his brain blocked his memories of it—including us.
The second brother, we had no idea where he might be. Hindi raw kaagad nalaman ni Tito Zeij na tatlo kami kung hindi lang dahil sa nalaman nilang bagong impormasyon sa USB na nagkokonekta sa aming tatlo.
He said he was the illegitimate son. My father's son from his affair.
Magkakasama raw kami noon sa ampunan but after Kuya Levi escaped, it was a dead end.
Wala rin naman akong maalala. I was a toddler when I got separated with my brother. I was like what? Three?
I had no idea where my other brother would be. After this, I promise to find him. If I've got a family, he had to have one, too.
Kami...buong pamilya.
I grew up in isolation in Wyatt's mercy. I was groomed and honed to be a killing machine. When I found love, I felt something for the first time again but Wyatt took it away, too.
He tortured me, destroyed my face, almost made me lose my sight, too. They used it to their advantage when I lost my memories. They honed me again to be a killing machine—to be Scythe then try to use me against the man I care about.
I won't let it happen the third time. Never again.
She explained I have no documents under my real name before kaya mahirap ma-detect ang pinanggalingan ko. Wala ring dokumentong naka-file sa kasal namin ni Zy noon bilang Theia dahil doon sa takot kong malaman ni Wyatt and until now—as Bevurleigh Leticia Sandejas, the only document I had was my fake identifications and our marriage certificate.
She explained the possible reason why Wyatt let me use my real name now, Bevurleigh Leticia. She said he became more confident he's untouchable. The Mancinis case in Italy is unsolved and cold. No one cares. He thinks no one would look at my background that good enough to know the truth.
Well, jokes on him.
This is Sandejas he's fighting against.
"That was the reason they are training Bullet while keeping her real identity hidden. They forced her to hide her eye color for it might be a giveaway. The eldest escaped—Brig. Gen. Levi." Tumango siya kay Kuya.
"We didn't know where the second brother was and I think they aren't looking after him because he's illegitimate. They can't use him against Italy."
Bumilis ang paghinga ko.
I will kill them. I will burn you fucking alive, Wyatt. I swear to my life.
"Then, Bullet. They want to use her in case Italians messed up with the trade. If the Kingdom of Italy found out there was still a living heir to the House of Kastrioti, they are all fucked. They are now attacking Wyatt because we got a hold of the USB and been investigating quietly for a while. They are starting a war now that we knew the truth."
"You mean to say, Ma'am, at that time Miss Bullet is the only legitimate heir of the Mancinis?" The Queen asked.
"Yes, your highness. With her brothers gone, she's the only living heir under them. Hence, inheriting the title from her parents. She's the Duchess of Kastrioti."
Duchess...
Fuck, that's why they call me Duchess.
Isinandal ko ang ulo sa couch at ipinikit ang mata.
Damn it!
They discussed the next steps and how could the Office of the President and Kingdom of Italy help pero lumalabas na lang sa kabilang tainga ko ang naririnig.
I am exhausted and at the same time, glad because somehow, I have shed some light about my past.
I can get a real identity now. I can be a real person.
I could get married with Zy for real and we could have kids and...
My cheeks heated.
Will I be a good mother?
Oh, what if I fucked up? God! Should I watch videos now of good parenting?
"That's it for now. We will formulate a plan for the next steps. We are sure Wyatt won't stay in hiding for a long time. He wanted connections and I'm sure he'll be out in no time."
"There will be a charity ball coming soon, Sir," ani Mr. President kay Tito. "There are senators and high-end private individuals joining. It is a possibility he would try his luck. I could extend an invitation or two."
Tito nodded.
"Got it, Mr. President, thank you. My secretary would contact you."
While they close the meeting, my eyes sought for my brother's again. He stepped closer after shaking the president's hand. He smiled and winked.
I chuckled but it faded when I felt movement on my lap.
My husband stirred, his eyelids moved until a shade of blue peeked sleepily at me.
He yawned, "morning, misis."
Huh?
I blinked at him.
"Uh...morning?"
He moved a little without even looking where he was. Inangat niya ang ulo at pinatakan ng halik ang labi ko.
"Misis, may weird akong panaginip," he said sleepily, bangag pa.
Ano?
"Are you okay?" I asked, "did you bump your head or something?"
He chuckled and reached for my cheek.
"Sa panaginip ko—ay hindi, bangungot. Kapatid mo raw si Kuya Levi. Kuya!" He laughed, "dapat tawag na do'n, Tito."
Nanlaki ang mata ko at suminghap.
Fuck! Fuck!
"Don't," I mouthed without a word. 'Di niya ako pinansin at natawa pa.
"Natakot talaga ko, misis! Inggit kasi 'yon si tanda sa 'kin kasi mas gwapo 'ko sa kanya tapos ayon...favorite boss ko siya kasi siya lang naman boss ko."
Pinanlakihan ko siya ng mata.
"Don't," I mouthed again. "Shut up."
"Hmm?" He asked sleepily, inangat niya ulit ang ulo at muling humalik sa akin. "Bakit ka bumubulong, misis? May secret ba tayo?"
"Manahimik ka," I said in a harsh whisper. "Don't—"
"Huh? Teka, misis! 'Di pa tapos 'yong kwento ko. Tapos ayon, sabi raw kapatid mo kaya natawa ako!"
Natawa? Eh, nahimatay ka?
I opened my mouth but he kept on telling me his quote-unquote nightmare animatedly.
"Hindi naman sa takot ako pero kasi 'yan si Sir Levi masungit—signs of aging siguro atsaka nag-usap kami kanina na kung may kapatid daw siyang babae, hindi niya ipapa-jowa sa 'kin. Sabi ko agree, kasi duh? May misis akong maganda na, super love ko pa?"
Nawala ang susunod kong sasabihin. Napansin niya 'yon.
He smirked at me then pinched my nose, "yieee, kilig ka, hun?"
Hindi ko alam kung mag-iinit ang mukha ko o mahihiya sa lakas ng boses niya.
Wasn't he aware we're out of our house?
Hindi ako umimik at nanigas lang.
I don't want to raise my eyes and see my brother's face!
"Kaya weird naman kung biglang plot twist! Kayo ang magkapatid! Naks, telenovela 'yan? Ganyan 'yong huling palabas ni Mommy, eh. Kaya alam ko na. 'Di sa kanya boto 'yong pamilya kaya binigyan siya ng one million! Like, hindi kita ipagpapalit sa one million, ano? Siguro kapag mga twenty-five million pag-iisipan ko."
My jaw dropped.
"Tang ina ka?" I hissed quietly.
He grinned, "s'yempre joke lang! 'Di kita ipagpapalit unless may fifty million—"
I smacked his arm, pissed now. He kept on laughing.
Oh, gosh. Whatever happens to you, I won't fucking stop my brother.
"Buti na lang panaginip lang. Grabe, ngayon lang ulit ako binangungot ng ganito! Nagtaasan balahibo ko! Ang creepy, gagi. Atsaka sabi ko ayaw ko rin do'n sa kapatid niya—no offense, may misis na ako. Eh, alam mo na, Tish. Nabusog na akong kainin mga sinasabi ko. Nauumay na 'ko sa lasang tanga."
I gulped.
"To beg is water tapos mamaya n'yan nakaluhod na 'ko sa harapan mo—s'yempre bukod pa sa—" bigla kong tinakpan ang bibig niya, nag-iinit ang mukha.
Don't you fucking dare!
He pulled my hand away.
"Hindi gano'n! Ikaw ang bastos mo, ah?" He giggled, "ang ibig sabihin ko lang naman, honey, sabi ko na takot ko lang kapag siya ang maging brother-in-law ko. Kaya no thanks, busog na ako sa katangahan. Ayaw ko nang kainin mga sinasabi ko."
"Kung kamao ko kaya ipakain ko sa 'yo, Colonel?" Kuya Levi's quiet and sharp voice thundered.
We both stiffened. Ang tawa sa mukha ng asawa ay unti-unting nawala at lumingon sa gilid niya.
He swallowed. I saw how horror filled his eyes.
Uh-oh.
"Sir! N-nand'yan ka pala? Kinekwento ko lang sa misis ko 'yong panaginip ko—"
"Misis mo? You mean, my sister?" He asked darkly.
Napabalikwas ng upo si Zion. Sumabog tuloy ang buhok niya at napakurap-kurap.
"Huh? Anong sabi mo, Sir? Parang nabingi ako, sinong kapatid—"
"My sister, Bullet," he repeated. "Oh, you think you're dreaming—I mean, having a nightmare, Colonel?"
Miski ang balahibo ko ay nagtaasan sa talim ng boses na 'yon. 'Di nagsalita si Zy at unti-unting bumaling sa 'kin.
"Misis," he called carefully and whispered. "Was he really your b-brother?"
I pursed my lips, "yes, honey."
I then smiled firmly at him, my eyes telling him: You're fucking dead.
Nahulog ang panga niya.
"No. Way."
"Yes way," my brother's jaw clenched.
He shook his head and smacked his face, "nah. Panaginip lang 'to, sabihin mo, Tish! Panaginip lang 'to."
I smiled gently, "let me give you a piece of advice, hun."
"What?" He asked breathlessly.
"Run," I said.
He stood up and sprinted, my brother cursed and ran after him.
"S-sorry na, Kuya!"
"Anong Kuya? Kapatid ba kita?!" My brother hissed loudly.
"Idiots," napailing na lang ako at sumandal sa couch, natatawa. Napawi lang 'yon nang matanto 'kong marami pang tao.
I stood straight, alarmed and apologetic but then laughters filled the once cold room. My heart warmed as I laughed heartily, too.
And then, when my friends, Clau and Jayden walked closer to hug me. I became emotional.
"Bullet! I'm so happy! May family ka na!" Clau beamed and kissed my cheek.
"I'm so happy for you," Jayden whispered and embraced me tight. "So, happy. You deserved it, Bullet."
Hindi matigil ang kalampagan sa conference room sa kabila. Sa huling silip ko sa kapatid at asawa, nagpapatintero sila sa mga upuan. Ang Kuya ay nagbabato ng kung ano-ano at todo iwas naman ang asawa.
"Aayaw ka pa, ah? Tapos malalaman ko syinota mo ang kapatid ko?!" His voice roared.
"Ay, huli ka na, Kuya! Kasal na kami!" Zion laughed but it was cut in the middle, kasunod ng malakas na lagabog ng tumalsik na lamesa.
I sighed and knocked.
"Kuya!"
"Misis, help!" Zy called, "si Kuya—"
"Stop calling me Kuya! Kapatid ba kita?!"
"Edi sorry na, Kuya!"
Muling lagabog. Isinandal ko ang noo sa pintuan at kumatok.
"Just don't mess with his face, Kuya!" I exclaimed loudly.
"Misisss!" He screamed, "don't leave me—Sir! Joke lang! Sorry na! Masyado ka namang madamdamin—aray, puta!"
"Minumura mo ba 'ko, Sandejas?!"
"H-hindi, Sir! Putang ina ko naman kasi!"
Nasapo ko ang mukha at natawa, napakamot sa pisngi bago tumalikod nang balingan ako ng guards.
"Ma'am, pasukin na po ba namin?" The guards asked.
"Hayaan n'yo silang magpatayan," I shook my head and left.
Naglakad ako patungo sa opisina ni Zy at hinanap kaagad ng mga mata si Twila. I smiled when I saw her playing with her sisters, Zire and Sibyl together with Fritzy and Zire's kids.
"Good afternoon," I greeted formally.
Twinkle's eyes brightened more upon seeing me. Tumayo siya at tinakbo ako para magpabuhat, ipinapakita sa akin ang bagong laruan niya.
"Wow, ang ganda! Sinong nagbigay?"
"Ate!" She pointed her sisters.
I smiled at Zire who I was able to talk to earlier and then Sib...she was just staring at me.
Tumikhim ako, marahang ibinaba si Twinkle na tumakbo pabalik sa mga pamangkin. Naglakad ako malapit sa pintuan bago bumaling sa kanila.
"Uh, sorry, papunta pa lang dito sina Ma'am and Sir Zeijan galing conference. They're just sending off the VIPs. Can I offer you anything? Foods? Drinks?"
I looked around the room, to Solomon and Wave.
"No, it's fine," Wave smiled.
"Ah, alright," tumango ako at humugot ng hininga. Muli akong sumulyap kay Sibyl na pinapanuod lang ako.
"Labas muna ako, they might need me—"
"Bullet," my shoulder tensed at Sibyl's voice.
"Yes?"
She straightened her dress and glanced outside, "can I have a word, please?"
Fuck.
My heart rapidly throbbed. Tumango ako at napakamot sa pisngi bago Lumabas sa opisina.
I knew I have to talk to her one of these days pero kinakabahan pa rin talaga ako. Sumunod siya sa 'kin kaya hinarap ko siya.
"Sib, I would like to apologize—"
My words got cut off when Sibyl walked closer to me for a tight embrace. I stiffened.
"Sorry," she breathed. "I'm so sorry, Bullet."
My heart softened.
"I-I'm sorry I was rude to you and said those things. I'm sorry I didn't believe it when you said you were only trying to protect my sister. Sorry because..."
"Y-you don't have to apologize," bulong ko at unti-unti'y niyakap siyang pabalik. "I understand."
"Sorry..." her voice trembled. "I-I hope you forgive me, I want to be your sister. That's...only if you want me."
Mas bumilis ang pintig ng puso ko.
"I should be the one asking you that, Sib," I chuckled. "If it's okay if I consider joining your family?"
"You don't have to consider, Bullet. You already are a part of a family years ago—when Kuya told me about you."
Umawang ang labi ko at lumayo sa kanya.
"You knew?"
She smiled and nodded, "do you really think I won't notice Kuya sneaking out of the house every night? Cooking an extra meal and skipping sleep overs for some "assignment"?"
I just blinked.
"Huh?"
She smiled a little.
"It's been so long ago but I remember him telling our parents he's out to do some assignment for class. Akala niya 'di ko napapansin ang overnight bag na dala niya?"
Umawang ang labi ko.
"I thought he...oh, he's sneaking out?" Natawa ako, "why would he do that?"
"Nah, not sure. Napansin din ni Dad pero 'di naman nagsabi ng kung ano. He knew kuya set his eyes on someone and he just let it. Malaki naman na raw si kuya at alam na ang gagawin samantalang ako no'ng college bawal mag-boyfriend!"
I laughed.
"Fathers are protective."
I wish I have one.
"I guess," she smiled. "And well, Dad's protectiveness led me to my husband and Zire to Wave's. I'm just telling you my brother loves you more than life itself, Theia."
Lumunok ako at tumango.
"I know,"
I felt it. I knew. He never stop telling me his feelings and love. Even before, even after he'd forgotten me. Even after we were together with no memories of each other.
He loved me.
"He won't tell me directly what it was he was sneaking about but he said he's pretty serious about that girl he prepared the grand gesture for but left."
Nag-init ang mukha ko.
Tumawa siya at inabot ang kamay ko para pisilin.
"Oh, don't worry 'bout it. Public proposal could be very overwhelming and overrated, anyway." She shrugged, "Taught him a lot of lessons, too. He lowkey deserved it."
I chuckled.
Typical Sibyl.
"He's crazy about you. Who would ask to marry someone just for a kiss?" She asked.
Napatakip ako sa bibig, "you heard it?!"
"Duh, you were flirting in the parking! I heard it, I've been teasing my brother for years about that. Hindi ko nga lang sinasabi kung kanino ko narinig na sinabi niya, he thinks I'm just messing around." She shrugged.
Kinagat ko ang labi.
Shit. It was her?
I remembered that. That's when Zy told me he wanted to court me formally and we were just messing around.
"I wanna kiss you," he breathed on my lips. "Please, Theia?"
"Hmm, no," I placed my finger on his lips. "I don't kiss suitors, Sandejas. It would be unfair to other candidates."
"Fuck them!" He groaned, "I won't just court you. I'll marry you immediately after this, please? Kiss? Just one?"
My brow shot up.
"Are you seriously offering to marry me just for a mere kiss?"
"Mere kiss?" Nagsalubong ang kilay niya at inabot ang chin ko. "Those lips aren't just for mere make outs, Theia. Dapat sa 'yo pinapakasalan."
My heart raced. Tila may humalukay sa sikmura ko at habang nakatitig sa asul niyang mga mata ay nahatak ako. I licked my lip unconsciously, my eyes dropping at his red ones.
I swallowed, reached for his nape and pulled him close to crash my lips against his.
We made out, wet kisses and me gasping whenever his lips teases my tongue until we heard a slight movement.
Natigil kami at lumingon pero wala namang nakita, tanging ang tunog ng tumatakbo ang narinig.
Nagkatinginan kami ni Zy.
"Shit, did someone see us?" Nervously, I asked.
"Hayaan mo na," kumindat siya at bigla akong binuhat.
I squealed and embraced his nape as he carried me to his car as we resumed our make outs. I came while dry humping him.
Her next words pulled me back to earth from daydreaming.
Damn, tuyot na tuyot na ata ako talaga. I need—no, I want to fuck him.
Ngumuso ako at napakamot sa pisngi.
Calm your damn tits, Bullet!
"I'm not saying this just because he's my brother but he struggled a lot with my issues, Bullet," her voice softened. "Sinisi niya ang sarili niya sa nangyari sa 'kin kahit wala naman siyang kasalanan. He blamed himself for my trauma and didn't even consider his. He had lost a lot of things because of me, too."
"He had lost someone important—you. Something important—his memories of you. I knew and I've seen how he struggled. He's weird most of the times. Ginagawang joke ang mga bagay but I can see through him. He's my brother. Alam ko kung kailan siya malungkot, kung kailan siya masaya. I have seen how he tried to try and give his attention to other girls..."
My chest tightened.
"But he just can't do it," she added. "He'd appreciate, yes, pero wala na bukod pa do'n. You know, I've heard nonsense rumors circling around from paparazzis that maybe he's gay but I know better. He was just unconsciously waiting for someone. Ayaw ko namang sabihin sa kuya, ang sabi ng doktor niya h'wag ipilit ang impormasyon kung hindi kailangan. It might stressed him out.
Napansin ko lang na may interes na siyang muli no'ng dumating ka. If we're together and he's home? He was asking me about new recipes he asked me to taste test. I recently found out it was for you."
Napakamot ako sa pisngi.
"It was for me? The lunch...the..."
"Hmm, it was for you. Saw one of his childish notes last time with hearts all over."
I laughed.
"I realized it was like college all over again. The lunch. The genuine happy glint of his eyes. The excitement when you're around. That was my Kuya Zion with Theia all over again." Bumuntonghininga siya. "Who would've thought, though? That his Theia and Tish are the same person. Love is weird, huh?"
Sinuklay ko ang buhok at tumango.
"It really was."
"You know, sometimes I wonder if he hadn't lost you and his memories. Baka naunahan pa akong ikasal niyan. Alam mo bang ang number one goal niya noon after graduation, sa halip na sa career, ang pakasalan ka?"
My eyes widened, "what?"
"Secret lang, nakita ko 'yong bucket list niya no'ng college."
Umugong ang tawanan naming dalawa sa hallway.
"Baka nga naunahan pa kami niyan magkaanak!" She exclaimed.
Nag-init ang pisngi ko.
She's right, baka naunahan pa. If only she knew how damn wild our sex life was even back when we're young. He's so called "assignments" he's telling his family are just hours of us flirting and fucking around the house.
I'm sure as heck if we didn't get separated? Nasa grade school na ang anak namin.
Tumikhim ako at niyaya si Sib paupo sa couch.
"Alam kong everything happens for a reason pero sometimes I wonder, ano kayang nangyari sa inyo ni kuya kung 'di ka niya nakalimutan? Kung 'di ko siya natulak. Kung hindi..."
Ginagap ko ang palad niya.
"It wasn't your fault, wasn't his. Wasn't ours, Sibyl." I squeezed her palm. "It was solely Wyatt's fault. Lahat ng 'to—lahat ng pinagdaanan natin dahil sa kanya."
She nodded, "you're right."
"I can't disclose to you our plans yet but I assure you, Sib," I smiled gently at her. "I will do everything in my power to give justice to what he had done to us. I'll put him to stop and..."
"Kill him?" She asked.
I nodded.
"Kill him."
Her smiled widened, "I want you to burn him alive."
"Oh, hell, I will make him dance in flames. I'd happily watch." I promised her.
Lumabas si Zire sa opisina at nang makita kami ay tumalon siya at hinila kaming dalawa.
"Mga ate may bagong bukas na café sa tapat ng building! Tara!"
"The kids?" We both asked.
"Nah, hayaan n'yo na sina Kuya Sol at Wavy!" Sabay hila niya sa amin pababa.
My smile won't fade. I watched the two girls—now my sisters fighting for a drink for me.
Zire was insisting on something sweet while Sibyl wanted something bitter and cold.
"Dapat may sprinkles!" Zire insisted. "And whip cream! Yum!"
"Nope. Bullet's not the type to drink something so sweet. She's a coffee girl, too."
"Eh, anong kape?"
"Let me suggest, I know different types of coffee and their taste even in my sleep." Sibyl mentioned proudly and after the long list of her coffee types and brews, sumagot ako.
"Uh, wala bang 3-in-1?" I asked.
Malakas na natawa si Zire. Sumimangot si Sibyl sa akin.
After an hour of just listening to Zirena talk, bumalik na kami sa building. Habang naglalakad kami patawid ay nagsitaasan ang buhok sa batok ko.
Someone is watching.
I tensed. The two girls noticed immediately.
"Bullet?"
"Ate?"
"Just walk casually," I said casually and touched the gun tucked behind my pants. "Someone was watching us."
They nodded and casually walked with me as we crossed the street. Pasimple kong inangat ang tingin sa mga building bago pinindot ang comms at inalalayan ang magkapatid hanggang sa sigurado akong ligtas na.
"Jay?"
"Bullet?"
"Can you check the nearby rooftops around DEA? See if there is a sniper? Someone was watching us when we got out."
"Alright, on it."
"Thanks, Jay,"
"Are we okay now?" Sibyl asked after a while.
I nodded, "yes, from now on I want you two to observe. As much as possible, don't go to open spaces too much. Add securities with you, your husband and kids. Hindi pa nahuhuli si Wyatt. We have to stay vigilant."
We were walking back to the office when Sib suddenly spoke.
"Though, I haven't really seen your face that much before. I recognized you a bit. It was you in the auction party six years ago, right?"
"Auction party?" My forehead creased.
"Yes, I went to an auction briefly before flying for my recital. Before my accident."
I don't...pilit kong inalala ang sinasabi niya.
Umiling ako.
"Red hair? Auction at Manila Pen?" She reminded.
"Sorry, I don't remember yet," I combed my hair. "Are you sure it was me?"
"Maybe? I saw you with my brother. He was there, too. Nag-uusap kayo. I only saw the side profile but maybe it wasn't you...I might be imagining things."
I was confused but I let it go. Nakakapit sa braso ko si Zire at nagkikwento tungkol sa huling bakasyon niya kasama sina Wave papunta sa opisina.
"It was my first time hearing that place. Casa Amara? Lost Island?"
"Yup! It was beautiful! Kapag bet mo magbakasyon, Ate! Let me know! That's my most recommended place."
Kakapasok pa lang namin sa opisina nang makarinig na ako ng daing. I stiffened and when my eyes found my husband's, napasinghap na ako.
"Levi!" My voice roared as I looked at my brother's angry face. "What did you do to my husband's face?!"
Wala na ang mga bata para kumain kasama si Twila kaya kami-kami na lang ang nandito. Jayden informed me na walang naabutang sniper sa mga kalapit na building at ngayon ay nakaupo na sa sofa at nakikisilip sa laptop ni Clau.
I'm cleaning my husband's wounds.
May malaking sugat sa labi niya at may pasa sa pisngi! I glared at his face angrily.
He cleared his throat, "sa akin ka ba galit, misis, o...?"
Bumaling ako sa Kuya na napatalon pa at tumikhim, muling ibinabaling ang atensyon kay Tito Zeij na may sinasabi.
Sinabi kong p'wede silang magpatayan pero h'wag ang mukha! Mamaya ka sa 'kin, Levi.
"Misis—"
Hinagis ko sa kanya ang panali niya.
"Tie your hair, Sandejas. Mukha kang aswang."
He cleared his throat and tied his hair into a bun. Lumapit ako at kinalas ang uniform niya. Inabot niya ang kamay ko para pigilan.
"What?" I spat.
"Your brother's already glaring at me, hun. Gusto ko pa maging asawa mo hanggang mag-one hundred years na tayo. Ayaw ko pang maagang mamatay."
I side eyed my brother who groaned and scratched his nape. Itinuloy ko ang pagkalas ng iilang butones ni Zy para i-check ang panga niya.
"Bakit 'di ka lumaban?" I scolded.
"Bawal lumaban sa nakakatanda, Tish," he whispered.
Namilog ang mata ko sabay sipa sa kanya. Tumawa siya't inabot ang palad ko para ibalik sa pagpunas ko sa mukha niya.
"May sinasabi ka, Sandejas?" Kuya Levi asked loudly.
"No, Sir!" He answered formally.
Umirap ako sa hangin at pinagpatuloy ang ginagawa sa asawa habang abala ang lahat sa pag-uusap.
"Sakit dito, oh, Tish." Tinuro niya ang labi kaya mas diniin ko ang cotton. He groaned and whined.
"Mabuti nga sa 'yo," I hissed.
Tinapik ko ang pisngi niya pagkatapos bago umusog pero nahuli niya ang baywang ko palapit sa kanya. He pouted and placed his forehead on my shoulder.
"Kumain ka na, misis ko?" Bulong niya pagkaraan. "Ayos lang ako, kapag gumaling na 'yong pasa gwapo pa rin."
"I ate with your sisters," I answered back and touched his nape. "Ikaw?"
"Makita lang kita, busog na 'ko," he kissed my neck.
"Corny mo, pagutuman kaya kita?" I pinched him, making him squirm and chuckled.
"Inaaway ako ni Kuya mo, misis. Baka naman."
"Bahala ka d'yan, ginusto mo 'yan, eh. Ano bang ginagawa mo kapag kasama mo siya at mukhang ayaw na ayaw n'yo sa isa't-isa."
"I just like pissing him off," narinig ko ang desperasyon sa boses niya. "Ang sungit kasi kaya inaasar ko, sabi ko h'wag mabilis magalit baka mas dumami ang wrinkles."
My mouth parted.
"Seriously?" I chuckled. "Gago ka? 'Di ka talaga magugustuhan niyan?"
"Uh-hmm," he groaned. "Last exchange gift niregaluhan kong diaper pangmatanda kasi no'ng nakita ko siya kaagad naalala ko. Ang thoughtful, 'di ba? Pero ayon. Pinagbuhat ako sa barracks after holidays. Hashtag feeling betrayed."
Umugong ang tawa ko at mas hinawakan ang batok niya. His arms snaked on my waist as he tried snuggling against me.
"What will you do now, then? Ayaw sa 'yo. Could you feel his stares? I could feel it. Kung 'di niya lang kausap si Tito nabalibag ka na."
"Ramdam ko kaya nga sinusulit ko ang yakap sa 'yo at baka kapag tapos nila mag-usap ni Daddy Pogi huling hininga ko na—"
"Sandejas," malamig na boses ni Kuya ang pumainlanang.
I gave him a look to let my husband go. Tinaasan Niya ako ng kilay.
"You saying something, Bevurleigh Leticia?" He asked blankly.
Uh-oh.
I shook my head and gently pushed my husband away at me. Namilog ang mata niya at nagpapaawa akong tinitigan.
"Do you love me?" I asked.
He nodded nervously.
"Then, sorry," I mouthed at him and kissed his cheek, "good luck, honey. Tatagan ko ang loob mo, pagsubok lang 'yan."
And then I stood to move away. My husband stood immediately and saluted at his boss.
My brother tilted his head.
"Out." And when he stepped out, my husband's gaze lingered at me hopelessly.
"I love you," he mouthed and touched his chest. "Para sa 'yo 'to." Then he spun dramatically to ran after Kuya Levi.
"Kuya! Baka naman p'wede nating pag-usapan—"
"A hundred push ups!" Sigaw ng Kuya kasabay ng pagsara ng pinto.
Awkward silence filled the room until Tito Zeij's laughter roared. Lahat kami ay napatingin sa kanya na tawang-tawa.
Tita Alyx smirked.
"Wala, wala, sorry!" Tito laughed and crossed his legs. "Naalala ko lang si Tiger, ganyan din kami noon! Memories, memories! Nakaka-miss naman si Dad—pero 'di ibig sabihin no'n p'wede mo 'kong multuhin, ah?"
"You mean...Tiger as in Sir Alejandro po?" I asked.
"Yeah, ginagawa ko ring joke time 'yong existence niya kaya 'yon...na-joke time din ako no'ng nalaman kong Tatay pala ng asawa ko."
"Woah...that's...wow."
"'Di ba? Ang tapang ko pa nga no'n kaya ayon, naalala ko lang si gwapo. Parang deja vú pero sabi ko kay gwapo okay lang 'yan, ang mahalaga gwapo tayo."
Ano raw?
May lumitaw na question marks sa ulo namin. Tita Alyx pushed Tito's head and shook her head.
"Pagpasensyahan n'yo na ang asawa ko't hindi nakainom ng pampakalma niya," aniya. "But he's right. Don't get worried about Zion, Bullet. Malaki na 'yan."
"Was it okay with you? I mean, he's your son but...?"
"There's nothing wrong being protective at times. There's this initiation for men in our family in welcoming new members. Kapag 'di ka nahabol, 'di ka tanggap."
"But isn't Zion your son? Why does he need to..."
"You just found out about your brother, darling. He'll do the initiation for you but you're already a part of the family. For formality lang." Casual na sagot ni Tita.
"Ang chill na lang nga ngayon, anak," ani Tito Zeijan sa akin. "Nong kapanahunan ko nagbabarilan kami kapag bored."
Oh...
Well, nagsasaksakan po kami ng anak n'yo kapag bored.
"Ayang habulan ni Levi at Gwapo? Wala lang 'yan, ang pinanghabol sa 'kin ni Tiger noon bala ng baril." He shivered, "grabe kapag naaalala ko kinikilabutan pa rin ako. Parang kasama pa natin si Tiger hanggang ngayon."
Suddenly, Tita Alyx tensed.
"Misis?"
"D-dad?" She suddenly asked, both dramatic and stunned while staring at nowhere.
"H-huh? Sinong Dad—"
"Dad," ulit ni Tita sabay turo kung saan. Sinundan iyon ng tingin ni Tito at saktong hinawakan ni Tita ang balikat niya para gulatin. When we heard Tito Zeij's loud scream and panic. 'Di na ako nagulat.
Tatay nga ni Zion. Nasa dugo na ata talaga ng lahi nila.
"We will schedule further meetings and training for the upcoming operation. This is our only chance to lure Wyatt out."
"Are there any list in the said drive for children under their care, Viper?" Trece asked Tita Alyx.
Mas dumami ang tao nang dumating sila ni Hawk. My husband is back, catching for his breath and really, really exhausted.
Nakahiga siya sa couch habang nakahubad at basang-basa ng pawis.
My eyes feasted on his bare chest. The slopes of muscles on his stomach. Lumunok ako nang mapansing nakikita ko ang bestfriend niyang bakat sa suot na pants.
My throat dried up. I swallowed.
Unti-unti kong itinakip ang uniform niyang hinubad sa hita at ipinatong ang kamay sa dibdib niya para pasimpleng chumansing.
Pa-touch lang.
My brother gave me a look. I shook my head at him. Ngumisi siya at kumindat.
Napangiti na rin ako.
I feel bad for my husband's exhaustion but it's an overwhelming feeling having some family member protecting and looking after you.
"You okay?" I mouthed.
He nodded and showed me his bottle of water.
Kung 'di ko pa sila puntahan para sunduin, 'di sila matatapos.
Nakailang laps ng takbo itong huli at parang Don na nakaupo ang Kuya sa upuan at kumakain, nagpapainggit sa asawa. Naawa naman ako at parang mahihimatay kaya kinuha ko na.
Wala naman nang magagawa ang Kuya at pinanlakihan ko na ng mata.
His eyes are closed. Catching his breath. Pinunasan ko ng pawis ang dibdib niya at likod. He hugged me by the waist and buried his face on my stomach.
"Misis, buhay pa ba 'ko? P-parang mamamatay na 'ko. Gago."
"Ay, hindi. Multo ka na." I teased.
"Nothing, Trece," Tita answered. "Don't worry, we'll do our best to find her, okay?"
Kumunot ang noo ko at natigilan sa usapan nila.
I raised my hand.
"Sorry to interrupt but can we offer help? Maybe we can help...right, Clau? Jay?" Bumaling ako sa mga kaibigan.
Tumango sila.
"We might know a few kids or details, Ma'am," Clau answered Trece. "We have trained with a few people before. Maybe we could..."
"C-can you?" Trece's eyes softened, "thank you, Clau. We would love to. Thank you."
My heart tugged when Trece reached for my friend's palm for a tight squeeze. Lumiwanag ang mata ng kaibigan.
She was working with them ever since Tito Zeijan welcomed us in DEA. Because they're both an expert in computers and hacking, madalas silang magkasama kaya alam kong magaan ang loob nila sa isa't-isa.
Clau even told she's been having a few lunch with the couple. She said she was happy. We were happy for her.
They explained to us what happened with their daughter.
Twenty-two years ago, Trece and Hawk's daughter went missing. A toddler. Age five.
The couple went on a mission with Viper and Archer. They came home with the home empty. Wala na ang yaya at ang anak nila.
They looked for her but the investigation is always a dead end. Their last lead was an orphanage but when they visited, it was gone to the ground.
Arson.
Something clicked. Nagkatinginan kaming magkakaibigan.
"Can I know what orphanage, Ma'am?"
She showed us the name—which is different from us but I felt like something's tugging inside my chest.
Orphanage. Related to me where I was, with my brothers. Jayden's from an orphanage, too.
Magkaibang pangalan pero paano kung maraming den ang pinalabas nila bilang ampunan?
What if it's one of the HQ for child trafficking—they disguised it as an orphanage so no one would suspect and question why there are kids?
A girl. Kasing edad lang namin halos namin ni Jayden.
Does that mean possibleng kasama ni Jayden ang batang iyon noon? He said before na may kalaro daw siyang mas matandang lalaki at batang babae. Was the girl Trece and Hawk's daughter?
"The leads told us this is somehow related to Wyatt Anderson, again. We only made the connection years ago when Wyatt emerges and tried messing with DEA. Maybe from one of his countless illegal businesses and trade pero hindi pa rin namin mapatunayan hanggang ngayon. Wala kaming ma-track na mga bata o kahit sino sa ampunan. Everything were fake identities."
Hawk explained.
Fuck, Wyatt. He just added a reason to as why I have to kill him.
Kumuyom ang kamay ko. Inangat ang kamay para sana kamutin ang pisngi pero hinuli iyon ng asawa at ibinaba.
I glanced his way when he rose and kissed my cheek, "don't." Before cocking his head and seriously glanced at the table where the documents are.
"Can I see, Tito?" He asked Hawk.
"Sure,"
Tumayo ang asawa, walang pang-itaas na dumungaw sa malapad na lamesa at may binasa roon.
"How 'bout the nanny? Any info?" He placed his arm on the sides of the table.
His biceps flexed. His ass molded itself on his pants when he leaned in.
Ipinikit ko ang mata at sinilip ang ginagawa ni Clau sa laptop na lumipat sa tabi katabing couch ko para makapag-type.
She was massaging someone from one of her connections.
"From her fake files, she was an old nun from the orphanage. The said orphanage was also the dead end. It was burned to the ground. Arson."
My jaw clenched.
Clau kept on tapping from her laptop.
"It happened to the orphanage where I was in, too. Burned to the ground, suspected as arson," ani Jay na tumayo at lumapit sa table.
Tumango si Zy, "possibly related. Right, Dad?"
"Yes, two orphanages burning to the ground in just one week is too much of a coincidence. The names and locations are different?"
"Yes, Dad," my husband answered seriously. "Weird, right? How 'bout leads, Jayden? May lead ba kung nasaan ang mga bata sa ampunan?"
Umiling si Jayden.
"No," umiling si Jay. "But I'm sure the orphanage where I was at was owned by Wyatt. I don't remember much since I was still a kid when I was still there but kids with me got taken away, too. Hindi malinaw sa ala-ala ko but a few months ago, I came to check on my old things. Saw a photo from my old clothes. It was me as a kid, I think. It led me to the orphanage."
"So...dead end is the orphanage in both cases. Both got burned to the ground. Arson. Jayden got taken by Wyatt and worked for him and if the two are related. Possibly, she was taken or working with Wyatt, too."
I rummaged my head to the girls I came across with before in Wyatt's office but no one really stood out. My world was dominated mostly with men. I don't think I had worked with a female assassin or spy closely before.
No one I've seen in favor of Wyatt. Aside from me.
I only know me and Clau.
But she wasn't really working physically in the field.
"Maybe you knew her?" Trece's gentle voice asked. "She has black eyes and a sweet, sweet girl. She's twenty-seven by now, we celebrated her birthday last week."
The pain in her voice was excruciating. It must've been tough losing a child.
Tita Alyx walked closer to her friend for a tight embrace when her voice began breaking. Hawk watched his wife with sad eyes, tumungo siya at hindi umimik.
I could see the way he was stopping himself from crying.
"Wala kaming masundang lead sa orphanage na possibleng pinagdalhan kay Chia," Tito Zeij said.
Natigil sa pag-type si Claudine at nanigas.
My forehead creased.
"Was Chia her name?" I asked.
"Yes," Trece smiled with tears in her eyes. "She's...a beautiful kid, smart and talented. Did you know she likes watching me in my computer? She told me she wanted to hack, too, when she grew up."
"Chia," Jayden murmured. "I think I've heard that name before but I'm not sure. It just felt familiar."
"She's the same age as you two," Hawk said. "Baka kilala n'yo ang anak namin. Anyone you could think of around Wyatt? That would be very much help, we want to take her back to us. We missed her. Her room's still untouched in our house. She's...she's our only child."
"O-oh..." lumayo si Trece kay Tita at pinunasan ang mukha niya. She typed something on her laptop and rose. "This is her at five years old."
Lumiwanag ang projector at unang lumitaw doon ang isang bata. It's a family picture. My heart broke upon seeing the innocence in her eyes.
Innocence a child had but got taken away by demons.
"We somehow tried asking someone to make a sketch what she might look like in her teens. Around thirteen to fourteen." Trece said then pressed the laptop and when I saw the sketch, my head spun.
Why does she look so familiar? Have I seen her before?
May kumalampag. Sabay-sabay kaming napalingon kay Clau na napatayo.
Her laptop's on the ground. Her eyes wet from tears.
Napatayo na rin ako.
"Clau?" I asked, "are you okay?"
"T-that..." she pointed the screen, "was it Chia?"
Trece stepped closer and nodded, her eyes never straining with hers.
"Y-yeah, you...you knew my daughter?"
My friend trembled and before I could ran to her, Jayden did. Inabot niya ang likod ng girlfriend at may ibinulong pero hindi umimik ang huli.
"Clau?" I called.
"Perhaps," her voice broke. "P-perhaps her full name's Charis Liara?"
When a loud gasp left Trece's lips, it dawned to me.
Nahulog ang panga ko.
"Y-yes, how did you...did you see it or..."
"I had a dream. In my head, I can hear people calling me Chia. In m-my head I knew that name. B-baka panaginip lang—"
But Trece was already racing towards her. My knees weakened when they both cried as they embraced and in a blink of an eye, Hawk was running and hugging the two girls.
May humawak sa likod ko. Paglingon ko't pagkakita kay Kuya Levi ay nahulog na ang luha at mabilis siyang niyakap.
"K-Kuya..." I cried.
"Shh...Kuya's here," he whispered solemnly. "I'm here, princess. I-I won't leave you anymore."
It was a long day for everyone. Clau wanted to go home with her parents. She just won't stop crying.
I looked for my husband and saw him discussing something with Jayden. Himala ata at maayos silang mag-usap ngayon, ah?
But then the two started kicking each other's feet. Napairap ako.
Masama bang mag-expect? Of course Zion would find a way pissing Jayden off.
Ang seloso wala sa hulog. Sinabi na ngang kaibigan ko si Jay! Kaibigan.
He's obviously head over heels in love with Clau! I mean, Chia.
I smiled softly and waved at the car when I saw her peeking. She smiled widely back and waved.
Pinanuod ko ang kotseng mawala ang bumaling sa usapan ng dalawa na naman.
Mas bumusangot ang kaibigan ko sa sinabing kung anong kabalbalan ni Zion. Zion laughed loudly. I heard Jayden cursing him sharply.
I caught my husband's gaze. Nawala ang ngisi niyang nang-aasar para masayang kumaway sa akin, parang toddler na nakita ang mama.
Diyos ko. Hindi asawa ang ibinigay sa akin, pati anak.
"Stop fighting!" I exclaimed.
"Hala, 'di nga ako nakikipag-away, Tish!" Singhap ng drama king kong asawa.
Jayden just clenched his jaw and shook his head.
I feel him, actually. Coming from experience.
"Hey, princess,"
My eyes brightened as I shift my body to his direction.
"Kuya!"
Hindi pa kami nakakapag-usap ng maayos ni Kuya Levi pero inabot niya ang palad ko at hinaplos.
"Sorry. As much as I want to come with you tonight, I have an urgent work to attend to. Can I come visit you tomorrow, princess?"
I smiled and nodded.
"Yes, of course. Our home's always open for you."
"Home," he chuckled and brushed my hair. "My little sister had a family and a home, I still wonder why does it have to be that fucking Sandejas? He's a fucking pain in the ass."
I laughed and shook my head, "oh, come on, brother. Don't be too hard on him, he's a great man."
"I know," bulong niya at pinisil ang pisngi ko. "I worked with him for years. He's responsible and a good man—h'wag mong sasabihin at lalaki na naman ang ulo ng gagong 'yon."
I grinned and nodded, "do you really have to hit him in the face?"
"Deserved," he shrugged. "He damaged my damn favorite chair, Bevurleigh. I won't let it go easily. Don't expect me to go easy on him, either. Hindi niya lang ginawang girlfriend ang kapatid ko! Inasawa pa! That fucking bastard."
His face softened afterwards, "does he treat you well, sis?"
Niyakap ko siya at ibinaon ang ulo sa balikat niya. He held me tight and kissed my hair.
"He loved me for a long time now, Kuya. He loved me twice in this lifetime."
He heaved a sigh, "good. He irritates me most of the time because of his gwapo sentiments but..." he chuckled. "I'm glad you're with him. I would not wish for any other man but him for you. Kilala ko 'yan, sigurado ako sa kanya para sa 'yo."
My heart calmed. I opened my mouth to speak when I heard a purr.
"Aww..." someone hummed, "na-touch naman ako, Kuya. Parang kinikilig ako!"
Mabilis na lumayo sa akin ang Kuya at napasigaw na lang sa frustration sa walang katapusang habulan nila. This time, Kuya was gripping a gun and chasing my husband in the parking lot.
Kids.
Nagpaalam ako kina Tita Alyx. Sa kanina muna ang baby Twila namin at alam naman daw ni Tita na ang daming nangyari at sigurado siyang pagod ako. She told me she'll deal with Jackie tomorrow and I was welcome to join if I want to.
She said we could have a bond! As mother and daughter!
Bonding namin mang-torture ng gaga.
I sat on the corner, waiting for two men to exhaust themselves and stop chasing each other around. Napairap ako sa hangin nang may marinig na putok ng baril.
It's getting serious, I guess?
"Kuya! Calm the fuck down!" I hissed when they're choking each other now. Palakasan sila.
Namuti na ang mata ni Zion.
"M-misis! Mahal kita—"
"Levi!" I hissed.
"Five seconds!" Ani ng kapatid.
"Ang bata ko pa para maging biyuda!" Reklamo ko.
I caught Jayden sitting near the elevator, on the floor. Tumayo ako at naglakad palapit sa kanya. He hid the photo immediately.
"Hi, Jay," I greeted and sat on the floor with him. "Anong ginagawa mo?"
"Hmm?" He shook his head, "nothing."
"Can I see the picture?" I asked. He handed it to me. Idinantay ko ang ulo sa balikat niya.
"Wait," he said and moved. Hinubad niya ang jacket at saglit akong pinatayo para ilagay iyon sa lapag para upuan ko.
"You don't have to but thanks," muli akong tumabi at sumandal sa kanya. He let me, resting his head on mine.
I stared at his photo. Back when he was a small kid.
Ilang buhay ang sinira ni Wyatt? Ilang bata ang kinuha nila mula sa pamilya? Ilang tao ang sinaktan nila para sa sarili nila?
I couldn't fathom to think of it. It made me want to stab someone.
"I'm happy for the both of you for finding your family," he genuinely said. "You found your brother."
"We are still missing one, Jay. It won't be complete unless we see my other brother."
"Still, it's a good start," he caught my hand for a squeeze. "I'm happy Claudine found her family, too. She just won't tell me but I know it was bothering her, she wanted to see her family. She was having dreams about it. I remembered it now, she mentioned the name Chia to me once."
"From a dream?"
Tumango siya.
"That's why it sounded familiar to me. I'm glad because you two found your family."
My heart broke.
"Jay..."
"Don't feel bad for me," he chuckled, squeezing my palm. "Ayos lang ako, Bullet. I'm moving, I found the orphanage and from there, I could always start again. Will check for more leads and..."
"Jayden..."
"There's always another way to a dead end, right? I just want to know if I have a family. Kung wala, ayos lang. Kung mayro'n at ayaw sa 'kin, ayos lang din. Gusto ko lang malaman."
"Jayden,"
His voice broke. Mabilis akong humarap sa kanya para yakapin siya ng mahigpit.
"I-I just want to know, Bullet," he cried. "G-gusto ko lang malaman kung may n-naghahanap sa aking pamilya. K-kung wala, ayos lang naman."
"Shh...I will help you. We are here, kami ni Clau. We are your family, too. We always got your back."
"I-I don't want to sound ungrateful and petty but I'm jealous,"
Ipinikit ko ang mata at mas niyakap siya.
"I'm jealous that you two had a family, j-jealous because I want to have one, too. G-gusto k-kong...makita man lang sila. K-kahit sa malayo, ayos lang! 'Di ko naman ipipilit ang sarili ko, gusto ko lang malaman, Bullet."
"You will," I tapped his back and cried with him. "I promise to you, you will. We will help you. We have a l-lot of connections now. Connected ang iyo kay Clau at mula ro'n, magsisimula tayo. Tito Zeij would help and m-me. Don't you know I'm a duchess?"
He sniffed and nodded.
"Damn it, my friend is a fucking duchess."
We laughed it out. I moved my body away to cup his cheek. Hinawi ko ang luha niya ng daliri ko at tinitigan siya mata sa mata.
"You are always been with me and Clau. For years, you took care and protected us. You...you became my big brother first, you...are my brother here." I pointed my chest.
"Thank you," he whispered.
"Kahit anong mangyari, kaibigan mo kami. Pamilya. Kayo ang nagsabi sa akin nito, 'di ba? Now, let me tell you that Clau and I—we will never leave. We got your back."
We stayed hugging. I never thought I am good with comforting that I managed to calm my friend down. Hinayaan ko siyang nakasandal sa balikat ko, ang litrato niya no'ng maliit pa'y nasa kamay ko.
Two bodies dropped on our feet.
My brother and husband stared at us while lying on the dirty ground.
Kuya Levi smirked.
"Water?" He asked us both.
"Kayo ata ang kailangan ng tubig," Jay answered with a weak smile.
I kicked him softly when I caught him throwing invisible daggers at my friend.
"Misis ko 'yan,"
Jayden frowned.
"I know, idiot. Paulit-ulit?" He spat boredly.
"Sinasabi ko lang, akin 'to," sabay gapang niya sa 'king parang bulate at higa sa hita ko.
Pinalo ko ang braso niya.
"Ang uniform mo!"
He just rolled and stuck his tongue out at Jayden, "kita mo 'to? Yakap ko misis ko! Inggit ka?"
Natawa si Jayden.
"Damn you, I have a girlfriend." He grimaced before looking at me, "seriously, Bullet? Why the fuck did you marry this asshole again?"
"Right?!" Biglang umupo si Kuya Levi na madungis na rin. "That's my question, too! Bakit niya pinakasalan 'to? Apir nga, bro?"
Jayden and Kuya Levi high-fived, grinning at each other. I smiled.
"Tsk! Gusto kita, ah! Patabi nga ako!" Sabay tabi niya kay Jay kaya tatlo na kaming nakasandal sa gilid habang ang asawa ay nakahilata sa dumi.
"Bakit niya 'ko pinakasalan? Bakit pa tanong 'yan, sino bang hindi gugustuhin akong maging asawa?" Zy asked before I could even flicked his forehead.
"I don't like you," Jay hissed.
"Ay, sorry, bro. May misis na rin kasi ako, 'di ako papatol." He grinned back.
Muntik nang masapak ni Jay ang asawa ko. Bahala na sila. Pinakinggan ko na lang ang away nilang tatlo.
"If I have a sister, I won't make her date you," Jay blurted.
Umawang ang labi ni Zy. Humagalpak ng tawa si Kuya Levi at hinampas si Jayden na walang kaalam-alam.
"I like you!" Kuya exclaimed loudly, "we have the same mind! I told him that, too!"
Tumawa si Jayden, "really?"
"Yup! I think we have the same mind. Unfortunately for me it came true—hence, the stress. Napagod na ako kakatakbo kakahabol sa hayop na 'yan."
"Luh? Sinisi pa ako?! Buto mo lang 'yang marupok, Kuya." Zy answered. "In short, signs of aging."
Kinurot ko siya.
"He's an idiot, I would like you to become my brother in arms but it's your choice," ani Kuya kay Jay. "Pero desisyon mo 'yan kung papayag ka. Pag-isipan mong mabuti at baka magsisi kang ito ang asawa ng kapatid mo."
"H'wag ka na mag-isip, Jayden," ani Zy. "Ekis ka na sa brother-in-law wish list ko. H'wag mo nang dagdagan ang stress ko dito kay Lolo Levi."
"Fuck you, Sandejas," Kuya Levi hissed.
"No thanks, Kuya. I'm good with my wife." The idiot answered, relaxed.
I screamed and smacked his mouth loudly. Kuya Levi cursed. Jayden laughed loudly.
"Thanks but no, Sir Levi," ani Jayden. "I'm interested with the brother offer pero kung ito ang asawa ng kapatid ko, itatakas ko kaagad ang kapatid palayo."
"Ang sakit n'yo namang magsalita?" Zy clutched his chest. "Nakaka-offend, ah?"
Jayden sighed.
"Condolences with the brother-in-law, Sir Levi," Jayden mused.
Kuya groaned and brushed his hair.
"Condolences for me, yeah. Kawawa naman ako."
I glanced at my husband making faces, reminding me so much of Twinkle. Pinitik ko ang nguso niya.
"Be a good boy," I told him. "Kuya ko 'yan, oh? Paano na boto 'yan sa 'yo? Paano pala kung..." bumaling ako kay Jay at kumindat. "Si Jay kapatid ko rin? Eh, ang sama ng ugali mo, paano ka magugustuhan para sa 'kin?"
"Luh? Ano 'to, telenovela?" He laughed, "walang gano'n, misis! Sa palabas lang 'yang ganyang drama! Si Kuya Levi medyo tanggap ko na—"
"'Di kita tanggap, gago."
"Whatever, you're such a loser," he made faces and put a letter L on his forehead. "Pero kung itong isang 'to kapatid mo rin. Aba, edi saksakin mo na lang ako, misis! Parehas lang naman 'yon!"
Our voices faded when we saw Will running out of the parking lot. Nang makita kami ay suminghap siya at tumakbo.
"Buti 'di pa kayo umalis!" He said.
"Why?" ani Kuya Levi.
"Sir Zeijan called, Sir. He emailed something to all of you. Sir Azul called, na-enhance na raw 'yong litrato ng isang kapatid n'yo.
I tensed. Dali-dali kong kinuha ang phone ko. My husband did the same while still lying on the floor and just as I opened my email, I saw a photo.
It was still like earlier but enhanced.
My hand trembled as I zoomed the photo in. I felt a sudden punch in the gut with the silence that followed the place.
"What is it?" Jayden asked.
Tinitigan ko siya, "c-can I have your picture, Jay?"
Confused, he handed me the picture and when I placed the two together, oxygen caught in my lungs.
"Y-you," my brother's voice trembled. My eyes stung.
"What? Why?" Jay asked, confused.
"You're Jaylan," I mumbled and glanced at my him. "Y-you're our brother."
He stiffened. Walang gumalaw kaagad sa amin sa gulat.
Did I see it right or...I have to confirm it with my husband!
"Zy—" pero singhap lang ang lumabas ang bibig nang makitang nangingisay na sa lapag ang asawa. Oh, help me, God.
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