Kabanata 28 (Part Two)
Kabanata 28 (Part Two)
.·:*¨༺ ༻¨*:·.
BULLET
"And where are you going, Theia?" I stiffened when I heard the voice.
Squaring my shoulders and tilting my head to the side, I glanced his way, my face now void with emotion.
"Leaving?" I answered as a matter-of-fact.
Wyatt's face crumpled—actually, he doesn't need to put much effort with that crumpling dahil natural nang kulubot na ang mukha niya.
"What's this, then?" He raised his hand, a very familiar envelope on his palm. "Why did you have an invitation to an auction party? Manila Pen, you say?"
My heart raced. Sweat started forming down my spine but I didn't let it show.
Lumapit ako sa kanya.
"Did you forget? You asked me to look after the congressman, right? Kill him if caught whistleblowing?"
Mas nagsalubong ang kilay niya at tinitigan ako. I just tilted my head, my jaw clenching while waiting for his response.
"So...?" I shot my brow up. "The gate closes approximately an hour from now. If I didn't get in, I wouldn't at all. This is my only chance to get closer to him without too much guards."
Kumunot ang noo niya bago unti-unting tumaas ang sulok ng labi.
"Why, Duchess? Can't you handle guards? Akala ko ba magaling ka?"
Hindi ako sumagot. Tumawa siya.
"Well, what did I expect from a girl?" He scoffed.
"Oh, if you know better, why don't you just kill him yourself?" I asked, "kasi lalaki ka, 'di ba? Giving missions like this one for a girl like me says a lot about your capability, isn't it?"
His jaw clenched. Tumayo siya at umamba akong sasampalin pero mas nauna ko nang nalaman ang gagawin kaya umatras ako.
His hand flew at nothing, making him almost stumble. I smirked when he glanced my way with spite.
"Maybe you should get your joints checked, boss. Mukhang nirarayuma ka na." I mused.
"How dare you?!"
Kinuha ko ang invitation sa kamay niya bago maliit na ngumiti, "I'll be leaving to do the job you couldn't." Sabay talikod ko at alis.
"Come back here, Theia!" He screamed, "I'm not done with you, bitch!"
Umiling na lang ako at naglakad palabas bago kinuha ang motor ko at isinuot ang helmet. I went back home, changed into a gown I stole last time and wore it.
I stared at myself in the mirror. I dyed my blonde hair red this time and as I was about to reach for my contacts, I stopped midway.
No one's gonna recognize me, right? I don't think Wyatt's men would follow me. This is a private event after all, nakakuha lang ako ng invitation dahil nakipag-date ako no'ng nakaraang linggo sa organizer.
I massaged my nape and watched myself for a while.
"Nevermind," I hummed after staring at my amber eyes in the mirror, deciding to fix my hair in a bun instead.
I double checked my gun and my knives concealed underneath my gown, making sure I could go inside without suspicions. Hindi ako p'wedeng dumaan sa scanner at makikita ang mga baril. My only way inside is through a kitchen.
I hailed a cab to the venue, went my way through my plan and smoothly got inside without even a strand of my hair astray.
Sinuot ko ang maskara para sa masquerade theme ng event.
"Invitation, madame?"
Smiling formally, I handed the invitation to the usher by the doors and once he's done checking it, inilahad niya ang pintuan sa akin.
"Enjoy the event, madame. Have a good day."
"Thanks, you too." Tumango ako at pumasok sa loob.
I fixed the white furry shawl wrapped around my shoulders, highlighting the color of my midnight blue gown.
Eyes and heads turned when I made an entrance and as a few gentlemen stood to offer assistance, I almost rolled my eyes.
Damn it, Theia. Too much for being lowkey, huh? Everyone's eyes are on you now.
I sighed.
Ganda problems.
I accepted one man's offer and let him lead me to my seat. I said my thanks but he sat beside me and try conversing for a conversation.
I glanced at him. Clean and polished. Obviously rich and spoiled.
He's probably younger than I was.
Binaba ko ang tingin sa mamahalin niyang coat.
He must be hiding that wallet in there. Cash might feed me for a month or two, I guess?
"Champagne?" He offered with a smile.
"Oh, sure, thanks." Ngumiti ako at pinanuod siyang kumukuha ng dalawang baso sa waiter bago bumalik sa akin.
We discussed about a few random things with me, always lying. Habang kakwentuhan ko siya ay sinadya kong idulas ang kamay at tabigin ang champagne.
It spilled on his suit.
"Oh, God!" I exclaimed horribly and took the table napkin. "I'm sorry!"
"It's okay..." mukhang nagulat din siya sa nangyari.
"I'm sorry..." I breathed dramatically. "No, let me clean up—"
"It's really fine, Miss," tumawa siya. "I can change my clothes."
"Still, I insist." Inilapit ko ang table napkin muli sa coat niya habang tuloy-tuloy na nagsasalita. While he was preoccupied with me cleaning him up, my other hand slipped on a part of instead his coat.
My fingers touched the target I'm eyeing and secretly, I slipped it out of his clothes without him noticing.
"There, I'm really sorry, Bryan." I apologized.
"Brendan," he corrected. "I'm Brendan, Miss Bea."
Shit!
"O-oh, Brendan! Sorry, nahilo lang ako sa pangalan. I also knew someone kasi named Bryan. I'm so sorry, Brendan." Malambing kong sagot at pinanuod siyang lumalambot ang tingin sa akin.
He's also wearing a mask earlier but well, not everyone follows the rules. They had the money not to. Wala namang pakialam ang mga organizer at sila-sila rin ang sasali sa auction mamaya.
I was just here to well...see someone from afar. The damn congressman was my only excuse to shut Wyatt the hell up.
Still, I had to see what I can do. If I caught him whistleblowing tonight, I had no choice to but introduce him to my bullets.
"It's really okay," ngumiti siya. "Let me change clothes briefly, see you later?"
I smiled, "yeah, sure! See you! I'm really really sorry..."
"No worries," he even reached out to kiss my cheek. "You're beautiful, anyway. Hope I could see you...bare."
My teeth grind with my forced sweet smile.
"I mean, your face. After all these..." umiling siya at inilahad ang lugar, kalahati ro'n ay ang mga taong nakamaskara, kalahati ro'n ang hindi.
"Oh, sure," I smiled again and when he left, my face dropped.
"Fucking pervert," bulong ko sabay silip sa shawl at ngumiti.
I got his wallet!
I looked around. Nang masiguradong walang nakatingin ay tumayo ako at pasimpleng nagtungo sa banyo.
I went inside a stall, sat on the closed bowl and rummaged on his wallet.
I saw his cards, driver's license or whatever...he's rich.
Nangiti ako nang makita ang cash. For now, I can't risk taking his cards. Might get detected so...
Isinuksok ko sa dibdib ang iilang libong nakita bago tumayo nang makontento na. I fixed my hair in the mirror again, my weapons then looked for the trash pero wala sa banyo kaya lumabas ako.
Sa tapat no'n ay may maliit na basurahan kaya naglakad ako ro'n at hinagis ang wallet.
Thanks for the cash, Bryan.
I was just at least five steps away from the restroom when I heard a voice.
"You dropped your wallet, Miss,"
I stiffened. The voice definitely shook me to the core, sending shivers down my spine. That voice I haven't heard for months.
Unti-unti ay lumingon ako at nakita siya.
My heart raced.
He's not wearing a mask, just his three-piece dark blue well-pressed suit and slacks, his hair in a bun with those ocean blue eyes staring at me.
Oh, God.
Pinigilan ko ang sarili na tumakbo at magpabuhat.
'Di ka niya kilala, Theia! Calm the fuck down!
"Miss?"
"U-uh," I cleared my throat and walked towards him, "thanks!" Inabot ko ang wallet para sana kunin pero biglang inangat niya sa ere.
It made me slam on his chest. Suminghap ako at saglit na pinagsawa ang sarili sa pamilyar niyang amoy at lumayo.
I narrowed my eyes at him.
"What?" I asked, "give me my wallet—"
"You're Brendan?" He asked.
I stiffened.
"Huh? What do you mean—"
"This wallet, it's Brendan's," aniya habang nakatitig sa akin.
I stared back at him, searching for recognition but...none.
It felt like I was punched in the gut.
I shielded the pain with fake confusion.
"Give me back my wallet,"
"Hmm, this is you?" Then he slipped an identification card from the wallet, showing the damn Brendan's smiling face.
My jaw clenched.
"Uh, so you're Brendan?" He asked with a silly smile now. "Hi, Miss Brendan. You looked beautiful tonight."
Damn it!
"I might be mistaken! That's not mine!" I hissed then turned my back on him when he pulled my elbow back and slammed me on the wall.
Umawang ang labi ko sa gulat.
"What the hell? Who the fuck are you?" I hissed under my breath, pissed and missing him at the same time.
Ang mapaglaro niyang mata ay hindi inialis ang tingin sa akin. Ang iilang hibla ng buhok niya'y nahuhulog sa gilid ng kanyang noo, ang ngiti'y nang-aasar.
"Are you Brendan or not?" He repeated.
"No! You must be mistaken, hindi akin 'yan." I tried sneaking out but he placed his arm beside my head, caging me.
Iritadong inangat ko ang tingin muli sa kanya.
"What the hell?" I hissed, "let me go—"
But he lowered his face until our eyes are aligned, making the damn monsters inside my stomach protest.
"You're a pretty little thief, aren't you?" He whispered in a hush voice, his tone sensual.
I shut my fucking legs.
Don't be fucking wet!
"The hell are you saying?!" Laban ko pa.
From my eyes, his gaze fell on my chest.
My forehead creased.
"Damn pervert—"
"What's this, then?" He pulled something from it and when I saw what he got, I mentally slapped my face.
I blinked, staring at him holding a thousand peso.
"Pamasahe ko," I answered. "Anong problema mo—"
"Oh, another one," muling may lumitaw na isang libo sa kamay niya mula sa dibdib ko. "Saan ka ba nakatira? Sa Mars? Parang ang dami mo namang tinatagong pamasahe."
I didn't know if he's serious or making fun of me.
I almost whined.
"Fuck you," I cursed.
"Oh, chill, baby." Tumawa siya, ang malamyos na tono'y mas nagpalambot sa hita ko. "Hindi pa tayo nagpi-first date, 'di ako easy to get."
I eyed him ridiculously. He smirked.
Tinulak ko siya palayo at iritadong dinukot ang bra para kunin ang pera na itinago ko roon. He cursed when I pulled his hand and handed him the cash one-by-one while making eye contact.
Nakatulala lang siya sa akin nang kunin ko ang natitirang isang libo at hinampas sa kamay niya.
"There, happy?" I hissed, "ibalik mo do'n kay Bryan—"
"Brendan," he corrected.
"Whatever," I rolled my eyes. "Give it back to him and whatever, call a cops on me or something."
He swallowed, just staring at me. Mas nangatog pa ako at napakamot sa pisngi.
His eyes fell on my hand.
"Stop scratching your cheek," he said.
My heart throbbed more. He sounded like my Zion. My old Zion and...
"I gotta go," bulong ko bago pa magwala ang puso at binilisan ang lakad paalis nang marinig ang boses niya.
"Hey, what's your name?" He asked loudly.
"Theia," I mumbled under my breath, only I could hear. "Theia Sandejas."
Hindi ko na siya sinagot ng malakas. Mas binilisan ko ang lakad para muling humalo sa mga tao at 'di mauwi sa pag-iyak ang pagpunta rito.
I came here just to see him and yet, I'm annoyed that I get to talk to him. Annoyed that somehow, he was right there but so far away.
Ang tagal ko siyang 'di nakita. He was always out in States for his race, sometimes in the military and in their province tapos...gusto ko lang siyang makita kasi miss na miss ko na siya.
I should be happy. I have seen him.
But why does it hurt so bad he couldn't recognize me when I have known him all my life? Can't he...feel me? Can't he recognize me?
"Bea, hello!" I jumped and faked a smile upon seeing Bryan again. Kakapalit niya lang ng suit niya.
"Hi," bati ko at tumikhim nang makitang inangat niya ang wallet.
"I'm clumsy," he chuckled, "inabot sa 'kin ng waiter, nahulog ko raw kanina."
Huh?
Frowning, I looked around and saw my husband—yeah, mag-asawa kami pero ako lang ang may alam.
He smirked and lifted his glass of wine. Umirap ako at bumaling kay Bryan para tumawa.
"Oh, be careful next time," I hummed and fixed his collar. "There, better."
We talked briefly, he was doing the more talking, actually. Nakikitawa lang ako at pasulyap-sulyap kay Zion na may kausap ng babae ngayon.
I frowned but when I saw him tilting his head, bumaling ako kay Bryan na ngiting-ngiti, kinukulit ako sa number.
I fixed my mask and stared in the front again.
"Did you know Zion?" My shoulders squared and my breath hitched with the name he mentioned.
"Zion? Who?" I pretended.
Tumango siya sa malayo kaya sinundan ko ang tingin niya papunta kay Zion na nakaupo na ngayon sa bar stool habang nakatitig sa amin.
"He's been staring at us for a while now, mukhang galit," he chuckled. "You know him?"
"No," umiling ako at umiwas. "Not at all."
"Hmm...he's a racer, you know? I watch race sometimes and well, he's good."
I pressed my lips closed.
Shut up, Theia. Hindi dapat nila malaman na kilala mo 'yan!
A few moments after and the host welcomed us in the event. The buffets opened with the dance floor. Inaya ako Bryan na sumayaw pero dinahilan kong masakit ang paa ko.
Pagkaalis niya'y may umupo sa tabi kong muli na 'di ko kilala.
I scratched my cheek.
I'll just distract myself instead of ogling over Zion and find the damn congressman. Nasaan na ba 'yong panot na 'yon?
I found him with politicians near the center stage drinking glass of champagne. Akma akong tatayo para sana magmanman nang may narinig akong tikhim sa may malapit.
Ibinaling ko ang tingin at muntik pang mahulog pagkakita kung sino 'yon.
"Hi, pretty thief," he smirked, placing two plates filled with foods on the table.
"What are you doing here?" I scoffed, hiding the giddy feeling inside my chest.
Ipinatong niya ang isang palad sa lamesa at ang isa'y nasa likod ng upuan ko. He leaned closer to me and smiled charmingly.
He's annoyingly handsome!
"Nothing, just...was that Brendan?" He asked, glancing at the dance floor.
'Di ako umimik at inayos lang ang mask para manahimik siya. I stared at him like I was saying leave me alone but I guess I wanted the opposite.
"Nagagwapuhan ka ro'n? Mas gwapo naman ako," he mused.
I almost kicked his feet. Bastard.
Ang yabang palagi kahit anong memorya mayro'n siya.
I just shook my head.
"Would you dance?" He suddenly asked.
I stiffened. My heart raced when he offered me his hand.
Unknowingly and still confused with excitement, inangat ko ang kamay at inabot ang kanya pero kaagad kong binawi.
"Uh, no," I answered and finished my glass of champagne. "Pero mapilit ka kaya sige." I then accepted his hand.
He smirked, pulled me up and to my confusion, he sat on the chair I have just left.
"Excuse me, mister?" I called, annoyed now.
"Hmm, akala ko sasayaw ka?" He answered.
I narrowed my eyes, "what?"
"Go on, pretty thief and dance. Kanina ko pa 'ko naghahanap ng mauupuan na may malaking lamesa kasi 'di kasya 'tong pagkain ko sa may bar." He smiled then took his fork to check on the plate.
Nakanganga lang ako sa kanya.
"I'm sorry?" I asked, offended.
"Ah, don't mind me. You're forgiven." He answered like a king sabay tusok sa lumpia sa plato niya at kain.
"Hmm, mas masarap pa rin luto ko," aniya habang pumapapak.
I just stared at him with my mouth parted.
What the fuck?
I was in the verge of fighting him or even try stabbing him with the knife but I let it go. I came here to just see him! From afar! Not interact with him or whatsoever!
Bumuntonghininga ako.
I missed him but sometimes, I just find it more fascinating punching that face.
I smoothened my dress and my hair, glanced at the congressman before nodding.
I'll just work.
Zion, kahit anong timeline ata mayro'n siya, palaging masakit sa ulo ang ugali!
"Fine," I breathed and took a step away when he pulled me by the wrist.
Natigilan na naman ako at iritado siyang nilingon pero ang ngiti niyang malambing at naaaliw na tingin ay nagpangatog lang sa hita ko.
"I was kidding," he chuckled and pulled me closer to the now empty seat beside him. "Come on, sit."
"No—"
"Sit or I'll call the cops on you, pretty thief?" He threatened.
Sighing, I scratched my cheek and marched to the other chair. He chuckled when our shoulders touched, mas inangat ko ang shawl at inayos ang mask.
He watched me with amusement.
"I'm Zion, you are?"
'Di ako umimik at lumabi lang.
"Sungit naman," he mused. "Kain, miss."
I glanced at his plate, watching him suspiciously first. Itinaas niya ang kilay kaya inabot ko ang plato niya para sa lumpia.
My heart warmed. He's so sweet.
"Thanks, that's thoughtful of you—"
"Hmm? Sabi ko kain," aniya.
"Yeah? That's why I'm eating."
"The buffet's in there," turo siya sa malayo. "Alam kong maganda ka pero respeto naman. Walang agawan ng pagkain."
"What?" Sumimangot ako, "wasn't this for the both of us?"
Tinuro ko ang plato niyang puno, halos puro ulam ang laman.
"Hmm?" Mas namilog ang mata niya, akala mo'y umamin akong krimen. "Ay, sorry, miss. Sa 'kin lang 'to. Kuha ka na lang do'n marami pa." Sabay ngiti niyang masaya at kagat ng lumpia.
The hell...
I wanted to protest but what did I expect?
Of course, Theia! It was Zion! Kahit naman noon nagtatalo kayo kung sino ang kakain ng balat ng manok! He's whiny, kaya sa huli, pati balat ng manok ko napupunta na sa kanya.
'Di pa rin nagbabago.
It annoyed the hell out of me but I couldn't help the smile leaving my lips. Itinago ko iyon sa pag-inom ko ng champagne bago sumandal at kinain na lang ang lumpia na nakuha ko.
Our shoulders touched again. I closed my eyes to enjoy the moment.
Minsan lang 'to, Theia. Matapos nito? Matagal mo na naman siyang 'di makikita. Manunuod ka na naman sa malayo.
Who knows? Maybe the next time you see him, he's with someone else?
My mood turned sour. Inabot ko ang pisngi at kinamot pero may humawak no'n bago pa ako makaulit.
My amber ones met his blue ones.
"Have we met?" He asked.
"H-hmm?"
Mas humigpit ang hawak niya sa pulsuhan ko, "have we met before, Miss?"
Yes...we did. We are married, you know? Hun?
Umiling ako at kinuha ang kamay mula sa hawak niya.
"Earlier, pretty thief, right?" I scoffed, trying to crack a joke but his eyes lingered on mine.
Nangunot ang niya, ang mata'y nakatitig na parang kinakabisado ako.
"Can you..."
"It's a masquerade party, no," umiling ako. "Unlike you, guys, I follow the theme."
He remained staring. My heart raced. Umiwas ako at gumalaw para sana umalis pero muli niya akong hinila pabalik.
"Ano ba—" marahang tinulak niya ang isang plato niya sa akin.
"Kain tayo," he offered.
"Let me get foods in the buffet—"
"Hati tayo," aniya at kinuha ang extra utensils na 'di ginamit ng mga kasama sa table. He placed it in front of me before pointing the foods. "Here, mas masarap ako magluto pero the foods here are decent. I guess. Subukan mo 'tong lumpia, masarap—pero mas masarap ako."
My shoulders slacked. He chuckled.
"Come on, eat," aniya.
I hesitated but my stomach churned. I haven't had any foods today.
I cleaned up Wyatt's mess earlier in the warehouse and...wala na akong sapat na budget pangkain ng masarap. I only ate my sandwich with egg and mayonnaise last night for dinner.
"Come on," kinuha niya ang kamay ko at pinahawak sa 'kin ang kutsara kaya humigpit ang hawak ko at kumuha sa plato para tumikim.
"Sarap?" He asked.
Mahina akong tumango at muling sumandok para kumain.
I'm fucking starving!
"Can we have a juice for the lady, please?" He called the waiter's attention and placed the glass of juice in front of me after.
"Thank you," bulong ko at patuloy na kumain.
He just watched me. Nahulog pa nga ang hibla ng buhok kong tumakas sa bun sa gilid ng mukha pero inabot niya iyon at inilagay sa likod ng tainga ko.
"Alam mo ba ang tips sa pagkain ng buffet?" He suddenly asked.
Nilingon ko siya.
"Mas damihan ang ulam para 'di kaagad mabusog," we both said.
His eyes brightened.
"You knew!" He beamed.
I bit my lip.
Of course, you told me, idiot. You said that's your Dad's golden reminder.
"Kasi makakakain ka naman ng kanin palagi, kapag dinamihan mo ang kanin mabubusog ka kaagad kaya kunin mo halos mga ulam para matikman mo lahat." He continued explaining. "'Yan ang paalala sa 'min ni Daddy Gwapo."
I pursed my lips, nodding.
He's too good to be true and maybe this much goodness wasn't meant for me because I'm evil. I'm a killer for a living. Maybe he was too good and I was bad, the heavens took him away from me as punishment.
I scratched my cheek.
"This is boring, hmm?" He asked. Sinalubong ko ang tingin niya. "I was just here in my family's name. Donation for the foundation. I just came back from a race, went straight here."
"How's race?" I asked.
Nilingon niya ako at mukhang nagtaka.
"I-I mean, you're pretty popular these days kaya alam ko. Overheard some of your fangirls and...well, nevermind."
"It's good," aniya. "It's not a formal race but I won. You know what? Sa 'yo ko lang muna ise-share but Formula One's coach was reaching out."
My eyes widened, "really?! Did you...did you get it?"
Tumawa siya at inabot ang buhok niya.
"Not yet, that means I'll stay there for a long time away from my family. Wala namang problema sa kanila pero..." umiling siya, "I had to check on my siblings. They're both girls, baka kapag wala ako biglang habulin ng mga manliligaw. Walang kasama si Dad mangbakod."
I chuckled.
"Oh, come on. Sibyl and Zire are ladies! They could decide what they want or don't—"
"Sib was actually here—you knew my sisters?" He asked. I was caught off guard.
Fuck!
"Who wouldn't?" agap ko, "Sibyl is a ballerina, right? And I saw you family in magazines—your Mom is famous, The Alyx Sandejas? I watched her movies! She's great and cool!"
You made me watch your Mom's movies, Zy. You're so proud of her. You're the reason why I idolize her.
His eyes softened.
"You have beautiful eyes," he breathed.
I swallowed hard.
Oh, God. I think I fell more.
Mas sumandal siya sa upuan at may inabot sa lamesa. He lifted a piece of tissue and to my confusion, he wiped something off my lips.
"Messy," aniyang may ngiti. "Would you like to go out of this boring room?"
Bumilis ang kalabog ng dibdib ko.
"Where are we going, then?" I asked.
"There's this new arcade downstairs, it's not yet open for the public but I have access."
"Arcade?" I shook my head, "I don't play—"
"I do," aniya bago tumayo at inilahad ang kamay sa 'kin, "let's go?"
Hindi ako nakaimik kaagad. Inikot ko ang tingin sa abalang lugar. Sinulyapan ko ang congressman na tumatawa sa usapan.
Muli akong lumunok.
Can I?
I scratched my cheek. Inabot niya ang palad kong gumawa no'n at ipinatong sa kanya.
"Come on," he urged like temptation, like death personified into a hot mess. "It'll be fun, I promise."
I locked gazes with him, locked my fingers and got lured into temptation.
Minsan lang...
We played in the arcade. I was screaming happily when after damn ten tries, he got me a prize!
A bunny stuff toy! Niyakap ko iyon ng mahigpit at binalingan siyang nakasandal sa machine at pinapanuod ako, nakahalukipkip. Tanging ang puting long sleeves na lang ang suot at vest.
My smile vanished. He smirked.
"Where's the sweet smile now?" He asked, "do you like the toy?"
Tumango ako at humigpit ang yakap sa laruan, tumatango.
"Thank you," mahinang pasalamat ko at ngumiti.
He nodded, rolling his sleeves up his elbow before crossing his arms on his chest.
"Nah, kiss muna," he tipped his chin, showing me his cheek.
My lips protruded. Mas inayos ko ang maskara at lumapit sa kanya.
He smiled and cocked his head more to show me his cheek. Inilapit ko ang labi para humalik pero ipinaling niya ang ulo kaya ang halik ko'y tumama sa labi Niya.
I stiffened, my eyes widening with my lips still on his.
Oh, God. We fucking kissed!
His lips tugged for a small curve of smile while staring at my shocked face. Bahagya siyang lumayo.
"Sorry—" but I pulled him by the collar, pulling him closer to me to crash my lips against his.
He was left dumbfounded, his eyes wide like how I was earlier but not a moment later, he was already kissing me and slamming my back to the machine, the only thing separating our chest was the bunny toy.
Both catching our breath with the sudden and long kisses, our eyes locked.
"D-do you have a room here?" I asked.
His blue eyes glistened, shock and thrilled with the question.
"Yeah," he breathed and pressed his forehead against mine. I knew he wanted to remove the mask hindering him from looking at my face.
"Let's go," I breathed.
He moistened his lower lip.
"Are you sure?" He asked.
Nodding, I pressed my lips on his again.
"T-take me to your room, Zy," I whispered. "Please?"
Lumunok siya, malalim ang iniisip pero mamaya-maya lang ay hawak-hawak na niya ang kamay ko at naglalakad na kami sa pasilyo patungo sa kwarto Niya.
He swiped his key card, pushed me to the wall and pulled me up by the ass for a wet and deep kiss again. Nahulog ang laruan nang yakapin ko ang batok niya, ang daliri ay umaabot sa kanyang buhok para hilahin paalis ang ponytail.
He stopped, his eyes lingering at mine.
I slipped his ponytail on my wrist and gave him a kiss again.
"Take me to your bed," I hummed.
He didn't need to be told twice, naglalakad na siya papunta sa higaan ng hotel room at inihiga ako roon.
Our eyes locked. His healthy black hair fell on his side as he watch me on his bed.
"Can I..."
"Turn the lights off," I requested and as he flicked the light off and joined me back on bed, I let him stripped of my mask...together with clothes I'm wearing.
I failed the task. The congressman really did fucked me up, I didn't had the chance to kill him. Inilaglag niya si Wyatt sa DEA para maghugas kamay kaya nabawasan ng warehouse sina Wyatt dahil sa biglaang ambush at buy bust operation.
He found out of course, that I fucked up, that's why he punished me.
He caged me like a dog in a small place where the dogs are kept before they had died in starvation. I was in there, in cold, crying when no one is watching but happy because I had the chance to see my husband.
That moment was enough to last a lifetime of pain.
It was the last time I had the chance to get that close to him. I left immediately as he was sleeping, only taking the last gift he had given—a bunny toy.
But I was mistaken. That was only one of his last gifts because he had given me the biggest.
A baby. Our baby.
I didn't know I was pregnant. I was malnourished and was only getting out of the place when Wyatt's giving me a mission. If I had given a task to kill someone.
I found out Sibyl got into a tragic accident in one of her recitals abroad. Zion left for States. Mas lumala rin ang alitan ng DEA at ni Wyatt dahil sa congressman at ako ang sinisi dahil 'di ko naunahang panayin ang huli.
I accepted all the punishments. How he starved me. Made me sleep in the dog cage in cold, staring at the starless, empty skies.
I was weak that I didn't even noticed my body is changing. I didn't even notice I am growing a new human inside me. Wala akong alam.
My stomach changed a small bit that I didn't even notice at first. Binaliwala ko, akala ko'y wala lang. I didn't even dare noticing my period because I'm irregular, I usually don't have period for weeks or months. I don't go to the hospital for prescriptions.
Wala akong pera.
I was just waiting for my time to die. I'm getting weaker at wala nang pakialam sa mundo at gusto na lang mawala.
At seven months, that's when I felt like something is wrong. I am having stomach cramps, spotting and back pain. I am experiencing intense hunger that I began stealing in the kitchen for extra foods.
I craved for lumpia that every spare money I had, bumibili ako para lang pumapak. Naiiyak ako kapag walang lumpia.
Gusto ko ng lumpia.
I sniffed and touched my stomach, staring at the confused vendor.
"Miss, okay ka lang? Bakit ka naiiyak?"
"P-p'wede po..." I swallowed my embarrassment, "p'wede po p-palimos ng lumpia? K-kahit isa lang?"
The lady took pity at me and I cried while eating in her carinderia. She gave me a full meal. My first full mean in three days.
To say my thanks, when I was near the premise and found out some local thieves are trying to steal from the lady's carinderia, I beat them up.
Fuckers.
One day, everything changed.
They let me out of the cage when they saw me crying while touching my stomach. Ang ingay-ingay ko raw at nagalit na ang mga nagbabantay kaya pinalabas ako.
They thought I was just starving, I thought so, too. It's not like they'll let me see a doctor or something kaya pinabayaan nila ako sa warehouse.
Everyone is busy. I heard Archer and Viper strike again and you know what's interesting? I had found something amazing a long time ago.
Zeijan Sandejas was Archer. I accidentally found out during their buy bust. I was there, hiding to spy but that information...I kept it to myself.
I was the snitch. I give clues and information to him to mess with Wyatt.
If Wyatt found out about Zeijan Sandejas, he would mess with Zy's family again like how Wyatt Jr. hurt them.
That fucking dickhead. I hope he was now rooting in hell. I knew they killed and disposed his body, kaya mas galit na galit si Wyatt sa DEA at mga Sandejas.
Pumunta ako sa kwarto ko at nanghihinang sumandal sa likod ng pintuan. I am catching my breath, my hips and back are aching. My breast are heavy and...
Humawak ako sa tiyan at natigilan nang mapansing may pulang stain sa suot kong pants.
Horrified, I doubled check until I felt a painful contraction.
What the fuck?
May nakain ba ako...may...and then, I realized I was probably pregnant. And I'm in labor.
How my mind worked? I'm not so sure.
Lumabas ako nang matanto ang mga nangyayari para sana humingi ng tulong pero narinig ko ang tawanan ng mga lalaki at sigawan ng mga babae sa ibaba.
I massaged my head, let out a rugged breath and shook my head.
No...no.
I shouldn't give my baby to them. No way.
They would take my baby away and who knows? Ayokong magaya siya sa akin! Ayokong...
I barricaded myself inside the room, played a loud music to match the music the Wyatt's men are playing and in the bathroom, alone and pooling with my blood, I gave birth.
She cried.
My baby.
A girl and when her tiny body clung to me, her little fingers grasping for mine, I knew I had to protect her with my life. I knew she needed a home—a warm one, but definitely not with me.
'Di ko siya mabibigyan ng magandang buhay. If she's with me, we will alway be in danger with Wyatt on our sleeves. Kapag nalaman nilang may baby ako, gagamitin nila iyon sa 'kin.
No. No fucking way I'd let my child experience the trauma I had.
No. I'll give her a family.
I didn't have milk so I had to steal formula in small stores nearby the warehouse to feed my baby the first time.
She was really quiet and so...tiny.
I have to take her to the hospital! Kulang siya sa buwan! I'm sure I should've given birth to her at nine months but she's still in seven...no. I have to save my baby!
And I...oh, God. This little girl was mine and Zion's.
"Duchess!" I panicked when I heard a loud knock on the door.
Itinago ko ang anak at nanginginig pang nagtungo sa pintuan para silipin ang tauhan ni Wyatt, Bernard.
"What?" I asked coldly.
"Anong kinukulong-kulong mo d'yan? Nagpapanggap ka lang atang masakit ang tiyan mo!"
"Should I go back, then?" I asked blankly, "and what? Die there? It's fine with me but will it be fine with Wyatt? Will it be fine for you if I died in your watch?"
Natigilan siya at napaisip.
Idiot.
You will die, too, if I died.
His face hardened afterwards.
"H'wag kang aalis! D'yan ka lang!" Sigaw niya bago nagmartsa paalis.
Ibinalot ko ang anak sa kumot at binuhat ang maliit niyang katawan para makadighay mula sa pag-inom ng gatas. While I was cuddling her, despite my weak body, nilinis ko ang kalat sa banyo para masiguradong walang makakaalam ng nangyari.
I then, created a plan in my head which I also had to do the same night.
I sneaked out of the room, locked it to protect my little girl then stole a phone from one of Wyatt's goons to call the number I have memorized.
No one answered.
My eyes swelled, desperately trying again.
I had to...
"P-please, sir," I chanted. "Please, answer my call."
"Hello?"
I stiffened when I heard the voice.
"H-hi," I started. "Was this...was this Archer, sir?"
Saglit na natahimik ang nasa kabilang linya.
"Speaking. May I know who is this?"
"I..." I breathed, "I was the insider, Sir."
"Oh..." he breathed, "new number, Duchess?"
Kinagat ko ang labi.
He knew me! He didn't forget the name I gave.
"I have no permanent number, sir," mahinang sabi ko. "I just sneaked out to call."
"What is it?" Pumormal ang boses niya at naging alerto. "Do you need help?"
My heart's racing.
Fuck. How will I say it?
"I..." I breathed, "I'm at Wyatt's biggest headquarters."
"You are?" He repeated, "I'm currently tracking the number's location. I'll go there myself—"
"Wyatt isn't here until tomorrow, Sir. I think it'll be better if you go tonight? I know where his latest documents for the illegal cargo, sir." I stammered. "I could...I could give it to you but can I see you briefly? I just need..."
"Yes, I'll be there," aniya. "Where are you? Are you safe?"
I looked around.
No. I'm not.
"I-I'm okay, sir," bulong ko. "But I really had to see you, j-just five minutes, sir? Please? I'll be sending you the HQ's blue print."
Natahimik siya saglit.
"Alright, you knew my email, right? Give me an hour—no, a half. I'll be there."
"Thank you," I whispered. "Thank you, sir. Thank you."
Ibinalik ko sa 'di nakapansing tauhan ang phone matapos burahin ang tinawagang numero at tumakbo pabalik sa kwarto.
My baby was sleeping peacefully in the bed, wrapped in the small blanket I only had in the room. I looked around, panicking and after I have sent the blue prints to sir Zeijan, hinalukay ko ang maliit kong drawer at nakita roon ang laruan.
My eyes swelled as I stare at the rabbit stuff toy. Ibinalik ko ang tingin sa anak at nanginginig ang kamay ay binilisan ang paghalukay hanggang sa nakakita ng ballpen.
I looked for a piece of paper but found none until I saw the folded photo—the only photo I had with my husband.
It was us.
Zion is wearing a white inner shirt and coat, his hair still short and clean-cut while he's hugging me from behind, wearing a short white dress. We are smiling, beaming with light, twinkling and behind us was the chapel where we got married.
Namasa ang mata ko at nangangatog ang kamay ay kinuha ko ang ballpen at nagsulat sa likod.
You're the light in the dark places. I'll watch you from afar, darling. I promise you'll be safe.
I was crying as I write that and kissing the photo one last time, I opened the toy's zipper from behind and slipped the photo there with the wedding ring I am wearing.
I stared at my daughter.
"I-I'm sorry, darling," I weeped and brought her to my chest, crying. "I-I love you, I'm so sorry. Mommy h-had to leave. I-I had to give you a-away because you'll only be in danger with me, mahal ko."
She cooed, her fisted tiny palms moving.
"Y-You'll be w-with your Lolo and Lola, y-you'll be with your D-daddy."
She made a small sound. I cried harder.
"I-I'm sorry, mahal. I'm sorry, anak. I p-promise you'll be safe. I'm sure y-you'll be happy. Daddy's family are good people. N-nakwento sa akin ni Daddy Zy, anak. M-mabait sila, aalagaan k-ka nila..."
I spent a long time hugging my angel, sniffing.
"I-I love you," I hummed. "I-I hope one day, we'll see each other again. I hope one day, I could carry you in my arms. I hope one day, I could be y-your mother."
I took a quick bath to remove the stench from giving birth and I still haven't wore back my contacts when the alarm rang.
Umingay sa labas.
"Ambush! Ambush!" Sigawan nila.
Tinakbo ko ang kwarto, ginagap sa yakap ang anak at ang laruan bago sumilip sa bintana para panoorin ang gulo at sunod-sunod na putok ng baril.
My baby cried. I covered her ears with my palms and sang a small lullaby. The only children's song I know.
"Twinkle, twinkle little star..." I hummed and kissed her head. "H-how I wonder what you are."
She cried more.
"S-shh...darling, shh. U-up above the world so high, l-like a diamond in the s-sky."
The sounds of the gun shooting faded. Muli akong sumilip.
Ang mga tauhan ni Wyatt ay bulagta na sa labas kaya dali-dali akong sumilip sa pintuan at lumabas nang makitang walang tao.
I sneaked and hid in every corner kapag may nakikita akong pumapasok.
Galit na sina Bernard, narinig kong pinapahanap na ako sa kwarto at palabasin para daw tumulong.
Good thing I locked the door before leaving so it will take some time before they realize I'm not inside.
It was a cold night. Dark and eerie.
My legs and knees are wobbling as I ran with my bare feet in the cold grass and ground, looking for Sir Zeijan and when I saw him, I was running twice my regular speed.
He was already fighting with two men at once, armed with a gun and a knife. Nang makita kong may aatake mula sa kanyang likuran ay mabilis kong kinuha ang kutsilyo at hinagis.
It struck the enemy's back and as Archer's blue eyes met mine, his shoulders squared and pointed the gun at me.
"Sir..." I started.
Tumagal ang titig niya sa mga mata ko bago nagsalita.
"Duchess?"
"Y-yes,"
Napatango siya at mabilis na ibinaba ang baril.
"So, it was you," ngumiti siya at lumapit sa akin. "Why..." his face fell down on my arm where my quiet angel was resting. "O-oh...is that..."
"M-my sister," I found myself lying. "She was only seven months, premature and she needed help."
Lumambot ang mata niya at bumaling sa kanyang apo.
Baby, this is your grandfather. He just didn't know it yet.
"Let's go, then," aniya at inikot ang tingin. "Let's go to the hospital, come with me—"
"No!" I blurted.
Natigilan siya.
"No? Why? The baby needed help and you..." he looks worried while looking at me, "let's go. Don't worry, I will protect you—"
"N-no," I shook my head again, "please, sir, protect my baby. I'm fine, j-just my baby..."
His jaw clenched.
I couldn't go. If I just disappeared and Wyatt found out I was with the Sandejas, I am not only endangering them. I'm also endangering my child.
No, I won't risk.
"Duchess..."
"S-sir, please?" I begged, "just take her. S-she needs help as soon as possible, she's w-weak."
Hindi matanggal ang tingin niya sa akin at muling ibinaba sa sanggol sa braso ko.
"Sir, please, I'm begging y-you..." muling inilapit ko sa kanya ang anak. "P-please? I didn't know anyone w-who could take her in b-but your family."
His mouth parted.
"Why us? Why me?"
"Because I know y-you'd take care of her like your own, I know you'd love her like a d-daughter. Like a part of the family," I whispered. "A-alam ko pong poprotektahan n'yo ang ana—kapatid k-ko."
He swallowed. He reached for my daughter, his granddaughter.
My daughter made a small sound, moving her tiny hand and my heart swelled when she gripped Sir Zeijan's finger.
He was in shock, too, like me but I caught the glimmer on his blue eyes.
"What should I do?" He whispered.
"Take care of her," I requested. "Please, sir? Your family is the only people I trust. Please hide her, d-don't tell anyone where you got her. Wyatt should never k-know her existence."
"Why?"
"If he found out about her, she will be in danger. I wanted for you to take care of her because I know under your protection, she will never be in harm's way. A-alam ko po na aalagaan mo siya, na poprotektahan. No o-one should know she was involved with me, c-can you promise me, sir?"
"Even my wife?" He asked worriedly.
Tumango ako.
"Please, sir. You can tell them you got her in one of Wyatt's headquarters but n-not from me. No one should know she was f-from me."
Tumitig siya at nakita marahil ang desperasyon ko. He nodded.
"I promise, Duchess," he said solemnly. "I'll protect and treat her like my own. I'll keep her a secret for her safety."
Nahulog na ang luha ko.
"S-salamat po..." humikbi ako. "Salamat, s-sana alagaan n'yo siya. M-mahal na mahal ko siya."
He nodded, his jaw clenching in some emotion I couldn't name.
"I promise."
"H-here," but when I was about to give it to him, my daughter cried.
"Shh, my baby," I hummed and buried her in my chest. "Sorry, I'm sorry. T-this man...he's a good man, he will take care of you. Y-you will have a happy family w-where you can eat a lot of l-lumpia. G-gusto mo 'yon, 'di ba? Lumpia?"
She cried more. Nanginig ako at mas umiyak din.
"Miss, come with us," Zeijan urged.
Muli akong umiling.
"I-I can't, he'd look for me," I answered and kiss my daughter repeatedly. "Be happy, darling. I-I love you."
Akmang iaabot ko na ang anak sa kanya nang umiling siya.
"Be with her for a few more moments," aniya at hinubad ang suot na jacket.
I was confused and surprised when he put his jacket around my shoulder.
"Sit first," aniya at inilahad ang upuan sa may ilalim ng puno.
Umiling ako, natatakot na makita pa kami kapag nagtagal pero umiling siya sa 'kin.
"You're safe as long as I'm here," aniya. "Sit, Duchess. You are trembling."
Shaking, naupo ako sa upuan doon, yakap-yakap pa rin ang anak na mahimbing nang natutulog sa braso ko.
Sir Zeijan then removed his shoes and asked for my permission to clean my feet.
"P-po?"
"Wala kang tsinelas," aniya. "Malamig ang gabi, baka magkasakit ka."
My eyes swelled when he lifted my foot and cleaned it off with his handkerchief.
"You reminded me of my daughters," he said and slipped his large shoes on my feet before proceeding to the other one. "When I first heard from you, I thought you are older but...it seems like you are almost the same age or closer to my son."
"Z-Zion?" I whispered.
Napatitig siya sa akin. Nagbaba ako ng tingin.
Zion.
Anak, ayon ang name ng Daddy mo. Zion. He calls himself Pogi at times.
He's very conceited but he's a great man. You will love him.
"Yes, Zion," aniya. "You know him?"
He's the father of my child, sir.
But I didn't say it.
"I just heard, sir," bulong ko. "I knew some things...alam ko pong makapal na ang mukha ko but if it's not too much, c-can I have another request?"
"Hmm, sure. Ano 'yon, 'nak?" He asked.
'Nak?
My heart throbbed painfully.
I stared at him with watery eyes. Ngumiti siya at tumayo, ginulo ang buhok ko saglit bago naupo sa tabi ko.
"I told you, you remind me of my daughters," aniya. "Because of the information you've given me for a long time now, I had the chance to protect them against Wyatt after my family's incident with Wyatt Jr., you helped me protecting them, you are my daughter now, too."
Nanginig ako at napaiyak. Inilapit niya ako at niyakap.
"Shh..."
"T-thank you, sir."
"You should come with me," aniya. "I could help—"
"I can't," I insisted.
"Alright," bumuntonghininga siya. "What is it?"
"I...c-can she stay sometimes with Zion?" I asked.
Napatitig siya sa akin.
"Y-your children, I mean. Para mas m-maging malapit siya sa mga anak n'yo p-po. If you decide she will be your daughter..."
"She will be my daughter," aniya. "And yes, of course, I'll let it happen. Zion's good with kids. He's in charge of his siblings when they were kids. I'm sure he'd love her."
I nodded and kissed my daughter.
"Thank you, sir."
Silence filled us for a few moments and when I started hearing noises from the distance, the screaming and the name Duchess echoing, I knew I had to leave.
Tumayo ako, tumitig sa huling pagkakataon sa anak bago bumulong.
"I'll watch you from afar, darling. I promise you'll be safe." I whispered. "I love you."
Sumulyap ako kay Sir Zeijan at inilapit ang anak. Nang kinuha niya sa braso ko ang anghel ay tila may parte ng buhay ko ang nawala kasabay ng pagkakaroon ng pag-asa na magkakaroon siya ng magandang buhay.
"H-here," I then gave him the bunny. "I-it's my gift for her, sir."
"I'll keep her safe," aniya. "She'll have your gift."
Smiling, I took once last glance at my daughter then back to him.
"Thank you, sir." I whispered and turned my back to leave when he spoke.
"What is her name?" He asked loudly.
Natigilan ako at kinagat ang labi.
"K-kayo na po ang bahala—"
"No, name her," he added. "It will be the greatest gift she'll ever receive from you."
My heart pounded.
Name? What name...
I looked around then lifted my face to see the once starless sky now twinkling with small lights from the stars. Even in just a few hours, she had lit a light in my darkness.
"Twila," I mumbled then glanced at Sir Zeijan with a smile. "Twila Klein."
Memories rushed like dreams assaulting my head. My eyes are blurry with tears and Zion's silent and like me while Tito Zeijan's telling the story how he got Twila.
"I just started having a hunch when I first saw Bullet with Zy no'ng pumunta sila sa bahay, I think her eyes look familiar but I couldn't be so sure unless...well..." he shrugged.
"Tapos ito pa, no'ng nakita ko 'yong sa drive then, nalaman ko na si Theia A.K.A. Duchess at si Bullet ay iisa...tapos nagjowaan sila no'ng college boom! Alam na! Napa—he covered his mouth exaggeratedly—ako."
I blinked and heaved a sigh but then I felt a small touch in my palm.
Nahulog ang tingin ko sa kamay ko at nakitang inaabot ng asawa ang palad ko. His palms are shaking, too. Slowly, I inserted my fingers in between the gaps of his. Humigpit ang hawak niya at ipinikit ang mata.
"I wanted to tell you both but I guess last time, you're still not ready yet kaya medyo nag-antay pa ako and then just these last few days, I found something out."
"What?" ani Sibyl na gulantang din.
"I found out that Zy and Bullet did a separate and secret—pero 'di na secret kasi nalaman ko, akala n'yo ha!—DNA test with Twinkle!" He beamed happily.
Sabay-sabay kaming nag-angat ng tingin sa kanya at kay Zion na namimilog ang mata sa akin.
"You did?" He asked.
I nodded, "ikaw din?"
He nodded, "y-yeah, I was bothered by you know...Manila Pen, I'm positive it was you but..."
Lumunok ako at tumango, "me too."
"Ayan! Kaya dapat talaga bukas pa sana ang grand reveal kapag nakuha n'yo na 'yong result ng DNA test para sana mas ma-drama kaso ang cute n'yo mag-away mag-asawa, bagay sa inyo may anak kaya...tsaran! Anak reveal! Surprise!"
His enthusiasm died when Tita Alyx smacked his nape. He choked and coughed loudly.
"Misis!"
"What the hell, Zeijan Ruais?! You...you knew and didn't even tell me?!" She hissed.
Tito Zeij scratched his nape.
"Surprise nga, misis! 'Di na surprise kung sinabi ko sa 'yo, 'di ba—"
Pero binatukan lang siya ulit ni Tita.
"So, you knew? All this time?" She asked.
Tito nodded, "oo, akala n'yo kayo lang may secret, ah? Mayro'n din ako! Mas nakakagulat—aray! Aray! Misis!"
"Ang dami mong alam pero kasal ng mga anak mo, hindi!" Tita hissed.
"Grabe? Sakit mo naman? Wala namang personalan!" Tito hissed.
Napaubo si Sibyl at Zy. Tumawa si Solomon.
Tito glared at him.
"H'wag mo 'kong tinatawan-tawanan d'yan, bantay-salakay!" He hissed at him then glanced at me but his face softened. "'Di kita papagalitan, 'nak. Itong si gwapo lang." Sabay simangot niya kay Zy na nagkamot ng kilay.
"Dad—"
"H'wag mo 'kong ma-Dad d'yan at 'di ako invited! Huh! Akala n'yo, ito ang ganti ng isang api!" He cackled but Tita choked him from the back by caging his neck from behind.
"M-misis..." umubo na siya at namutla.
Nasa gano'ng akto sila nang pumasok ang pediatrician at ngumiti sa amin.
"Uh, hello? I hope I'm not interrupting something or..."
"No, Dra. Samaniego," umayos ng tayo si Tita at pormal na ngumiti, akala mo'y 'di sinakal ang asawa at nasa binggit na ng kamatayan.
"Oh...okay," she smiled again when she saw more people in the room.
"Hello, I'm Philie Samaniego. Twila's pediatrician." Pakilala niya at napatayo kami nang lapitan niya ang anak.
Anak...anak namin ni Zy si Twila?
Nanginig ako. My husband squeezed my palm more, as if like me, he was trying to get some strength from me.
"She should be awake by now," ani ng doktor. "Is it okay to wake her up? Let's feed her, kahit lugaw lang bago siya uminom ng gamot."
"Ako na bahala, Doc," ani Tito Zeij na ngumiti at sa pag-alis ng pediatrician ay sumunod si Tito.
Nanatili kaming nakatayo ni Zy sa gilid ni Twila, pinapanuod lang ang anak na nakanganga at tulog na tulog.
"We have a daughter, Tish?" He whispered.
I swallowed, my eyes stinging.
"Y-yeah, we do..."
He laughed lowly, "fuck, busog na naman ako sa sinasabi ko, misis. A-anak ko si bundat?"
I bit my lip and laughed lowly, "y-yeah, anak natin si bundat."
"Damn it, I'm dead," he breathed. "She didn't like me that much. Inagawan ko siya ng jelly ace kahapon."
"You are dead," I mused.
We were both frozen in place, both scared of going to closer to our daughter. Afraid it was just a figment from our imagination. A dream.
"I'll wake her up," marahang sabi ni Tita nang mapansin ang katahimikan naming dalawang mag-asawa, tuliro.
She tried waking Twila. She just yawned and shook her head.
"Sleep..." she mumbled.
"Darling," Tita called, "you need to drink medicine. You should eat first."
"Twinkle, sleep," she mumbled again.
The doors opened, pumasok si Tito Zeij na may tray ng lugaw at naamoy ko kaagad ang lumpia na dala niya.
I caught the way Twinkle sniffed secretly in the air.
"Hindi pa rin gising, misis?" He asked.
"Nah, tulog pa," she answered then mouthed: "Nagkukuwari na tulog, ayaw sa gamot!"
Tito nodded and grinned. He glanced our way and smiled, "is it okay if I..."
"Y-yes po," tumango ako.
Pinanuod namin si Tito na lumapit sa kanya at inilapag ang tray sa gilid.
"Ay, sayang! Tulog pa pala si Twinkle Little Star namin! Lalamig na ang lumpia niya kaya sa atin na lang—"
Bigla siyang tumihaya sabay maliit na bukas ng mata. She faked a yawn, lifting her tiny chubby arms to stretch her body.
Bigla siyang umupo sabay mulat ng isang mata, "wake up na si Twinkle." She announced.
Muntik na akong mapabughalit ng tawa.
Oh, my darling. My baby.
I glanced at Zy. Ang mga mata niya'y namumula na.
Tito Zeij tsk-ed, "sayang! Akala ko pa naman makakakain ko na ang lumpia. Oh, nga-nga, kagat ka!"
Pretending to look so sleepy, she opened her mouth and chewed slowly but after a moment, nawalan ng pasensya at mabagal. Nagmulat ng mata sabay kuha sa lumpia at siya na ang sumubo sa sarili.
While munching, she glanced our way and smiled widely when she saw us.
"Ate Bullet! Pangit!" She chirped, "why kayo cry po? Nakakaiyak ba po ang kagandahan po ni Agent Twinkle Star?" She then placed her palm on her cheek and showed us a toothless smile.
Without a word, our feet seems to have its own mind because we're both rushing towards her. We sat on the bed and embraced her so tight.
Zion cried loudly.
"O-oh...why ka cry po, pangit? G-gusto mo rin lumpia? H'wag ka na iyak, bigyan naman kita, eh! Kagat ikaw, oh?" Sabay angat niya sa lumpia.
Zy only cried more and hugged us tight.
"I-I'm sorry...I'm sorry..." he whispered desperately, "s-sorry, Tish. S-sorry, anak."
"Hmm, okay po, Daddy Pangit," she answered coolly.
My eyes widened, napahiwalay kami ni Zy kay Twila at tinitigan siya, gulat na gulat.
"C-come again, darling?" I asked her.
She bit her food happily sabay turo sa akin.
"Mommy Bullet-ganda! Daddy Pangit! Ako...Princess Twinkle cute princess spy!"
Nanuyo ang lalamunan ko.
"W-what are you saying..."
"Ay, alam na rin ni Twinkle Little Star, 'di ba, princess?" Tito Zeij said happily.
"Opo! Agent secret po ni Daddy Zeij at Agent Twinkle!" Twila beamed happily, "suwrpriseee!"
Nakatulala lang kami sa kanila ni Zion.
The hell is happening?
"Galing talaga ng apo ni Daddy Zeij, oh! Apir nga!" The two high-five. "Narinig niya kasi ako na may kausap kaya 'yon, no choice kasi iniyakan ako kapag daw 'di ko sinabi sa kanya ang secret."
"Tapos po! I'm super gulat like..." Twinkle covered her mouth, "pero not so much na po kasi sa palabas po na barbie na nuod namin po ni Sunny may gano'n daw po talaga! Kasi nga po ang Mama niya 'di naman daw po popstar pero po nagpalit like magic!"
I was just blinking.
"T-Twila," I called, "do you understand what's happening? I mean, darling, if you're not ready—"
"Real mommy po is Mommy Bullet, real daddy si—Pangit," she made a face, "agaw mo jelly ace ko, ah? Palit mo 'yon, gusto ko five balot!"
"H-huh?" Zion was still processing. "Okay."
"Tapos sabi ni Daddy Zeij po na need po na i-hide si Agent Twinkle para 'di makuha ng bad guys! Tapos po ang real Mommy ko po, need na protect ako kaya bigay ako kay Daddy Zeij po para po i-protect sa mga kontwabida!"
She was talking about it lightly, like she understood everything and she didn't mind.
"Tapos po, si Daddy Zeij po is Papa Zeij! 'Di ko raw siya po tatawag na Lolo kasi baka po may uban na siya..." she giggled.
"Very good!" Tito beamed, "ang talino naman talaga ang apo ko, oh. Sobrang perfect! Tignan mo, misis, ang cute nilang pamilya—"
Tita's eyes sharpened at him. His smile faded.
"S-share ko lang," Tito coughed and laughed awkwardly.
"Saan mo gusto matulog ngayong gabi, Sandejas?" Tita asked dangerously.
I definitely felt chills.
"A-ah, s'yempre sa tabi mo?" He answered then grinned. "Saan pa ba? Sa labas? Sus! 'Di mo naman matitiis ang kagwapuhan ko!"
"Zion..." Tita called loudly and Zy rose, confused.
"My?"
"Call your Uncle Iñigo. Tell him I wanted a real annulment this time," she smirked as Tito Zeijan's grin disappeared.
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