Chapter 59
Grey's POV
"OMG!! Congrats!!! Magiging... Rafael Grey Costa ka na!!" Palirit ni Bianca habang kumakain kami ng tanghalian.
Binawi ko ang kamay kong may singsing sa kaniya bago napangirit, "Chua-Costa kasi. Alangan namang... halos sampung taon akong nag-aaral para maging doktor tapos Dr. Costa ang itatawag sa akin?" Sabat ko rito na ikinahagalpak ng tawa ni Bianca at Cairo.
"Oh, bakit? Si Code naman magiging Attorney Chua kung sakali, ah? Quits lang kayo." sagot ni Cairo at umiling ako bago sumubo ng ulam.
"He didn't spend 10 years pursuing law just to be called by someone else's surname. Hyphenated ang napag-usapan namin, and that's final." I emphasized before taking another bite of my food.
Muling inagaw ni Cairo ang kamay ko para tingnan ang singsing na ibinigay sa akin ni Code. Hanggang ngayon ay nanghihinayang pa rin ako sa mga pinlano ko para sa proposal ko sana sa kaniya. Nanghihinayang ako sa mga binayaran at pinaghandaan ko. Gusto ko kasi talaga sanang bigyan ng isang engrande at magarbong wedding proposal si Code. Ang problema... nagka-letse-letse nga.
Napalingon ako kay Bianca nang bigla itong tumikhim. May isinenyas siya sa akin na direksyon gamit ang mata niya na agad ko rin sinundan ng tingin.
My brows furrowed the moment I saw Louis looking at us. When our eyes met, he immediately looked away and pretended as if he didn't do me wrong.
I looked back at the two in front of me before scoffing. "I'd forgive him if he just apologized," I said before taking a piece of my shanghai.
Cairo gasped while Bianca looked at me in disbelief, "Papatawarin mo pa? Muntikan ka nang tumandang-binata dahil sa kaniya." Pabulong na sigaw ni Cairo na ikinangisi ko nang bahagya.
Napa-iling ako, "I'll forgive him if he apologizes. But I will never forget what he did, and we may not be friends like we used to." I replied, and the two slowly nodded.
Nag-angat ako ng tingin at nakitang may sinusundan ang mga mata ni Bianca at Cairo. Alam kong si Louis iyon na dumaan sa likuran ko subalit hindi ko na siya nilingon pa at nagpatuloy lang sa pagkain.
Pagkatapos kumain ay agad din kaming umalis at bumalik sa sari-sarili naming trabaho. Naghanda naman ako para sa 1 PM off-site consultations ko. Matagal-tagal na rin ang huling beses na lumabas ako ng ospital para mag-check up ng mga bata. Kadalasan din kasi na mga bagong doktor ang ipinapadala rito.
Masyado akong naging busy sa check-ups at mga pasyente na hindi ko magawang hawakan ang cellphone ko para tingnan manlang sana kung may messages ako rito. Bandang alas sais nang matapos ang check-ups. Saka ko lang nagawang buksan ang cellphone ko at basahin ang mga messages ni Mom.
Mommy <3 sent a photo.
From: Mommy <3
Look at her! She's so cute in her pigtails!!
From: Mommy <3
Alam mo Grey, kung babae ka lang, ang dami ko sigurong binili sayong dresses and hairclips!
A smile grew on my lips as I open the picture she sent. It's Chiara wearing a pink, puffy dress, pigtails on her head with bunch of hairclips. She's posing for the picture and even puckering her lips like a duck.
Tuwang-tuwa talaga si Mommy kay Chiara. Ilang araw na rin siyang hindi pumapasok sa opisina para lang samahan si Chiara sa bahay. Si Dad naman ay gusto lagi ay pauwi para makasama rin ang apo niya.
Kahapon lang ay nag-shopping pa ang mag lola. Nagdahilan si Mommy na paubos na raw ang mga dalang damit ni Chiara. Pag-uwi ko tuloy sa bahay kagabi ay nagkalat ang mga paper bags sa sala habang si Chiara ay umiikot-ikot suot-suot ang isang dress at bagong sapatos.
Spoiled na agad ng Lola.
"Doc, uuwi ka na ba? Nag-aaya si Doc Vargas ng dinner, libre raw niya." tanong sa akin ng isang intern na kasama namin.
Nilingon ko si Doc Vargas na nakatayo malayo-layo sa amin. Nakatingin siya sa akin habang inaayos ang isang equipment. He has this smile printed on his lips that I immediately know the meaning behind it.
I smiled back at him before looking back at the intern in front of me before shaking my head, "Tell him I said thank you for the invitation, but I'll pass, hinihintay na ako ng anak ko sa bahay at dadating na rin yung fiance ko maya-maya lang." Sagot ko at tumango ang intern bago umalis.
Tinapos ko na ang iniimpis kong mga equipments at tools bago kinuha ang gamit ko. Tinulungan ko pa silang dalhin sa ambulansya ang mga gamit bago nagpaalam na para umuwi.
Naglalakad ako papunta sa sasakyan ko nang biglang may tumawag sa akin. "Doctor Chua!" I looked back and saw Doc Vargas running after me.
I stopped on my track as he caught up. I raised both my brows, "Yes, Doc?" I asked before adjusting the strap of my bag.
He stood up straight, panting as he gasped for air. He smiled at me, "I... I didn't know you had a kid and were engaged," he said.
I blinked for few times as I registered in my mind what he just said.
Oh... So my assumptions were right? He is trying to make a move.
I smiled, "Uh, yeah, a little girl and an attorney." I replied, and he slowly nodded.
He squinted his eyes, "I thought you were..." he tilted his head.
I sighed, "I'm gay, yes. I have a partner who's a man. And we have a daughter." I replied. I hope that's enough to answer him.
He slowly nods, "I see," he chuckled, "I'm sorry for... bothering you. I was just... trying to shoot my shot," he replied, and I nodded.
"It's fine. You'll find someone else." I said before, facing my back at him, and entered my car.
When I arrived at my parents' house, Chiara immediately ran towards me and hugged me. Nagulat pa ako nang makita na nakasuot ito ng princess dress at may crown pa sa ulo.
"I didn't know na may princess na pala kami." Bati ko rito habang sinusuklay ang buhok niya ng daliri ko.
Humagikhik ito, "Lola bought me princess dresses, Daddy Grey! And shoes too!!" she exclaimed, which made me chuckle.
"Grey," Napalingon ako sa gawi ng kusina nang magsalita si Mom.
She peeked through the door of the kitchen before giving me a nod, "Magpalit ka na muna ng damit tapos kumain na tayo ng hapunan." ani nito at bahagyang nagparte ang labi ko habang sinusuklay-suklay pa rin ang buhok ni Chiara.
"Hindi po ba natin hihintay si Dad at Code?" tanong ko.
"Andiyan na ang Dad mo, nasa office lang niya." sagot niya at nagparte ang labi ko bago tumango.
"Sige po, pero... hihintayin ko na si Code para sabay na kaming maghapunan." sagot ko at tumango lang si Mommy bago bumalik sa kusina.
Sumama pa si Chiara sa akin pag-akyat ko ng kwarto. Napadaan kami sa office ni Dad na busy sa pagtatrabaho. Pero nang makita nito ang apo ay agad itong kumalas sa computer niya at kinulit na ang bata.
Pinauna ko na silang kumain. Sanay na rin naman si Chiara na Lolo at Lola niya ang kasabay maghapunan lalo pa at gabi ng dumating dito si Code nitong mga nakaraang araw.
Nakatulog na rin ako ng mga ilang oras nang dumating si Code. Ugong palang ng sasakyan niya ay kilala ko na kaya agad akong napabangon at bumaba ng bahay para salubungin ito.
"How's work?" I asked when he entered the house. He threw himself at me as if he had just lost his ability to stand on his own two feet, which made me chuckle.
"Ayoko na...!!~~" Mangiyak-ngiyak nitong turan. Agad akong napahagikhik bago siya hinila papunta ng kusina. Muntikan-muntikan ko pa itong mabitawan lalo pa at sinasadya niya talaga na magpabigat.
Ini-upo ko ito sa bangko, "Diyan ka lang, mag-iinit lang ako ng hapunan." ani ko at bigla itong nag-angat ng ulo.
"Hindi ka pa kumakain?" tanong niya at umiling pa ako. "Hinintay kita kasi gusto kitang sabayan. Unless... ayaw mo 'kong pakainin..." Napabungisngis ako bago sinundot ang tagiliran niya.
Napa-igtad ito bago ako pinanliitan ng mata, "Grey... pusa ka ba? In heat ka nanaman, eh— aray!" Agad nitong nasapo ang braso na hinampas ko.
Sinamaan ko ito ng tingin, "Ewan ko sa'yo, maghahanda na ako ng hapunan." ani ko bago nagmarsta papunta ng kusina.
Natutulala ako habang hinahalo ang letchong paksiw na iniinit ko. Napa-pameywang ako habang nakatanaw sa bintana.
May sakit na ba ako? Bakit nga ba lagi akong nalilibugan kay Code? Kahit anong oras ay game ako kung mag-aaya siya ng sex. Ni-minsan ay hindi ako humindi sa mga pag-aaya niya.
Nag-search naman na ako noong minsan kung sintomas ba ito ng kung anong sakit. Wala naman daw itong masamang ibig sabihin. Nagiging masama lang kung bigla nalang akong tinitigisan ng walang dahilan o nagiging uncomfortable na sa akin kung saan hindi naman iyon nangyayari.
Kay Code lang talaga ako tinitigisan at nalilibugan. Siguro'y ginayuma ako nito kaya ganun.
"What are you thinking about?" I jolted up when Code suddenly snakes his hands around my waist, pulling him closer to his body as he rubs his lips on my neck.
I signed and continued stirring the pot, "Wala, natutulala lang." I replied before turning off the stove since the food is ready.
He chuckled, "You're horny—"
"No," I immediately replied before pouring the food into a bowl.
Code hugged me like a panda as I walked around the kitchen, grabbing plates, rice, and utensils for us. He only let go when I asked him to get us some glasses and water from the fridge.
"Are you ready for your inauguration, Mr... CEO?" I gave him a teasing smile while chewing on my food.
He lifted his eyes, pouted before letting out a sigh, "Kinakabahan pa rin ako. I already prepared my speech and everything pero... I'm scared I'll mess it up," he replied, which made my brows furrowed.
"You won't mess it up. I'm sure your night will be perfect." I assured him.
He gave him a faint smile before nodding, "Isang araw nalang... Linggo na, kinakilabutan na ako." Nagsimula siyang manginig na parang sirang laruan na ikinahagalpak ko ng tawa.
"Kaya mo yun! At isa pa... andun ako, nagtatago lang sa tabi." ani ko at tumigil siya sa pagkokombulsyon.
Ngumuso ito, "I would really want you to stay by my side in case of... an attack," he replied and which made my brows furrow.
I scoffed, "Attack? Ano ka? Nasa action movie? At isa pa, kung nasa tabi mo 'ko, mas makikita ako ni Tito Collin. Kung nasa gilid lang ako, nagtatago, small chances that he will see me." I explained, and he slowly nodded.
The room went silent for a few seconds. We just stared at each other while chewing on our dinner.
I remembered something, "I'll bring Chiara to the mall tomorrow. Mamimili kami ng isusuot namin sa Sunday, may... may gusto ka bang ipasuot sa amin? Color? Theme?" I asked, and he wiped the side of his lips with a tissue.
"Well..." he cleared his throat, "I'll be wearing a black tuxedo so... you can wear one too, but... it's up to you. Plus, Chiara already has a lot of new dresses from Tita Grace so I don't think you should buy her another one," he replied.
A small smile crept on my lips before I nodded, "I see, I see. Pero isasama ko na rin yung anak mo bukas—"
"Anak natin. Masanay ka nang tawagin siyang anak natin." Pagtatama niya sa akin.
Napangisi ako nang bahagya bagong tumango, "Right, anak natin. As I was saying, dadalhin ko pa rin siya sa mall dahil baka nabo-bored na siya rito sa bahay." sagot ko at tumango lang siya.
Pagkatapos namin kumain ay inimipis na namin ang lamesa at dinala ang mga pinagkainan sa kusina. Sakto naman na dumating bigla ang isa sa mga kasambahay namin at nag-presinta na maghuhugas ng mga pinggan kaya umakyat na kami ni Code para makapaligo na siya at makapagpahinga na kami.
Maaga akong nagising kinabukasan. Dahan-dahan akong bumaba ng kama at lumabas ng kwarto para hindi magising si Code na mahimbing natutulog sa tabi ko. Dumaan din muna ako sa kwarto ni Chiara para silipin ang bata na mahimbing din ang tulog.
Pagbaba ko ng bahay ay dumiretso ako sa kusina. Na-abutan ko ang mga kasambahay na nagluluto na ng almusal at nakisiksik pa ako sa kanila doon para ipaghanda ng almusal ang mag-ama ko.
Maya-maya ay bumaba na rin si Mom para magluto sana ng almusal. Pero nang makita akong nagluluto na ay nanonood nalang ito at tinuturuan pa ako ng mga bagay-bagay sa kusina.
"Pagka-kasal niyo ni Code, ikaw rin ang maghahanda ng almusal niyo?" tanong niya habang pinapanood akong magluto ng pork and beans.
Nagkibit-balikat ako, "Depends. I can only prepare us breakfast during my day off or if my shift is not so early." I replied, and Mom just hummed.
Another hour passed, and I heard soft giggling coming from the dining room. I transferred the bacon to a plate before coming out of the kitchen.
"Good morning," I greeted Code and Chiara, who were bickering at the dining table. Dad is already sitting on his usual chair while reading something on his tablet.
The maids brought the other foods we prepared so we could start eating.
"Lolo, no gadgets po," Sita ni Chiara kay Dad.
Agad tinakpan ni Code ang bibig ng anak na ikinahagikhik namin ni Mommy.
Dad smiled, "I'm sorry, Chiara, I won't use my gadget on the table na." Dad placed down his tablet on the table as Mom and I continued giggling.
Dad chuckled, "What a well-mannered kid. You did well raising her," he complimented.
Code and I looked at each other. He looked like he was about to shed a tear, which I just laughed at.
Chiara and I bid goodbye to Code as he drove off to the office. We spent a few hours watching her favorite movies in the living room while munching on finger foods Mom had prepared for us.
When it was time to finally go to the mall, Mom offered to shower Chiara as she had been doing for the past days. I also took a bath in my room and slipped into some jeans and a plain white shirt.
When we arrived at the mall, we went to an ice cream shop first to grab an ice cream. Then we went to Ralph Lauren to look for suits.
I would ask Chiara about her opinions, but she would say yes to each suit I try on. I also bought a new pair of black shoes I'll wear with the suit.
Chiara found a black dress she likes in Ralph Lauren. But it is too casual for her father's event. After paying, I brought her to a different store and let her roam around the place so she could look for a dress she liked.
We ended up buying her a Chanel dress that suits her perfectly. I also bought her a hairpin and a new shoes she can wear with her dress.
When we left the store, it was just in time for lunch, so I brought her to a different Chinese restaurant since she loves Chinese food so much. Dad has been feeding her Chinese food the moment he found out about her love for Chinese dishes. And now, she would want to eat Chinese food every time she has a chance.
After lunch, we went shopping for some toys and knick-knacks, then went to the arcade and had some fun before we finally called it a day and headed home.
Code messaged me that he might come home late tonight. I didn't bother to worry or ask why since he has been coming home late for the past nights in preparation for his big day. I just went to sleep early since I have a shift tomorrow and have to be as productive as I can since I'll be working undertime to go to Code's inauguration.
Code's POV
I didn't expect Dad to arrange a company party tonight. When he told me to stay, I thought he meant work, that's why I told Grey I'll be staying later than usual. When I tried messaging him, he was already unresponsive, probably asleep.
People were partying, singing songs from the karaoke machine Dad rented, and going full blast on the alcohol.
I remained seated at the corner, holding a glass of vodka with some mango juice I prepared for myself. I'm not planning to get drunk even though it's a goodbye party for Mr. Villanueva and a celebration party for me.
I would just watch from the side, pretending to drink when I would just bite the edge of my glass.
A woman suddenly walked up to me. "Congrats, Attorney, future CEO of Costa Group," she raised her glass, asking me for a toast.
I smiled at her before bumping our glasses together, "Thank you," I replied. I recognized her face. She's an investor's daughter and has seen her face at a few meetings, events, and groundbreakings.
"Is this seat taken?" she asked, pointing at the chair next to me.
I glanced at the chair before shaking my head, "It's not," I shortly replied, and she nodded before sitting next to me.
I pulled my chair a bit away from her to avoid our legs and shoulders bumping against each other. And suddenly, my eyes accidentally glanced in Dad's direction, who was looking at us. He's holding a glass of whiskey while talking to an investor who is this woman's father.
"How's your daughter? I'm sure malaki na siya ngayon." She suddenly brought up.
My brows furrowed, and I confusedly faced her, "Uhm... she's... fine, she's doing okay." I replied, and she nodded.
She took a sip of her drink, "I'm sure mahirap magpalaki ng anak na babae mag-isa." ani niya na mas ikinakunot ng noo ko.
"I'm not alone, I'm with—"
"Yayas? Of course, but your daughter will need a mother's care. Alam mo na, babae sa babae, yung... may different bond sa kaniya." She flashed me a smile, which seemed genuine, but it was what she said that sounded off for me.
A smiled and looked down at my ring, "I'm engaged," I blurted out.
It's obvious that she's hitting on me. And I would like to cut to the chase, go straight to the point, and let her know I'm not available.
When I looked back at her, her eyes were wide open, and so were her lips.
I showed her my engagement ring, "I'm getting married soon, to a man. I'm gay." I came out, flashing her a smile that would annoy and shoo her away.
She sealed her lips and nodded, wiping the bottom of them, "O... kay, I should go." She stood up so fast it made me chuckle.
I took a sip of my drink as I watched her make her way back to her father. She spoke to them, and the expression on her face looked disgusted as she spoke.
Dad then glanced at me, cocked a brow before taking a sip of his drink.
I brushed it off and just finished the remaining drink in my glass before standing up from the chair. I put away the glass and went back to my office to gather my things and prepare to go home, when suddenly, my door opened. I was scared at first since it's already past 10 and I'm afraid it might be a ghost, but turns out, it was worse than a ghost since it's Dad who entered my office.
"I heard... you're engaged?" he asked in a serious and firm voice.
I zipped my bag and gave him a nod, "Yes, I am." I flashed an awkward smile before showing me the ring.
He remained standing a few meters away from me, "When was this?" he asked, raising a brow.
I pulled down my hand and adjusted the ring on my finger, "On the same day you arrived. Just... hours earlier." I replied, and he slowly nodded.
He started taking slow steps towards me, which I admit scared the shit out of me.
"And I heard it's... a man?" he asked, and I nodded.
He stopped in front of my table, just two meters away from me. I was preparing myself for any sudden attack. A punch, maybe? Or a slap?
But nothing came. He just let out a sigh and nodded, "Introduce me to him tomorrow. I want to meet him," he said before facing his back at me.
My jaw dropped. I wanted to speak up. I wanted to say something, but it seems like nothing inappropriate to say is coming to my mind.
What am I supposed to say, anyway? No? Next time? I know a day will come that he will find out I'm marrying Grey, but... am I actually ready for it? If not, when will I be?
I arrived at Grey's house around 11 in the evening. I found him sound asleep on his bed, and as much as I wanted to hug him already, I took a shower and changed into pajamas before lying down next to him.
I carefully wrap my arms around his waist to avoid waking him up. I planted a soft kiss on his neck, and I snuggled up to him, pulling him closer to me.
"I'm scared," I whispered.
Just the thought of seeing him hurt, shamed by my father, or in any dangerous situation already breaks me. As much as possible, I don't want him to see my father, but it will happen.
He wanted to support me on my big day, and I cannot stop him on so. I even saw his newly bought suits hanging inside the room, which made me smile.
I could say he's also excited for tomorrow. And I don't want to ruin his mood or scare him.
I guess all I can do is to... keep him safe and secure.
When morning came, I was surprised to see the space next to me empty. When I check my phone, Grey messaged me at 6 in the morning to tell me he's gone to work early to at least complete a full shift.
I joined Chiara, Tita, and Tito at the breakfast table, and they even asked me about Chiara's school. I told them I'll be enrolling her soon, but didn't mention the issue we had at her previous school.
Tito Richard even offered to help me with the tuition, but I declined his offer since I can handle it myself.
I left the house later than in the past days since I'll just be checking the venue and program. I also practiced my speech, and when I got bored, I visited Grey at his work and brought him a coffee and some donuts.
"My shift will end at 5 PM, don't worry, makakapunta ako sa inauguration mo," he replied while munching on his donut. We're now at a burger stall outside the hospital. He just took a 15-minute break, so we're making the best out of it.
"Ano palang nangyari sa party kagabi?" tanong niya,
Napabuntong-hininga ako bago sumandal sa bakal ng stall, "May babaeng lumapit sa'kin. Balak mag-apply na nanay ni Chiara." sagot ko at agad akong tinaasan ng kilay ni Grey.
"Anong sabi mo?" tanong nito.
Napangisi ako, "I told her I'm engaged to a man. Ayun, nandiri yata, nagsumbong sa tatay ko." sagot ko at agad namilog ang mga mata niya.
"A-Anong sabi ni Tito?" Gumuhit ang pangamba sa mukha niya.
Ngumiti ako bago umiling, "He just... asked me to introduce him to my fiancé." I replied, and his eyes grew wider.
"Sa'kin?!"
"Of course! May iba pa ba akong fiance?" Sagot ko agad sa kaniya. Medyo tumaas ang tono ng boses ko para lang sabayan ang reaksyon niya.
Hinampas ako nito bago napasaltik ng dila, "What are we gonna do?" he asked, worried.
I chuckled at his reaction, "Then we'll introduce you to him. Easy as that—"
"Easy as that?! He threatened to kill me before!" he exclaimed.
I sigh and nodded before placing my hand on his leg, "I know. And I, too, is scared. Pero... wala tayong magagawa dahil sa huli, malalaman at malalaman niya na ikaw ang mapapangasawa ko. Ang magagawa natin ngayon ay... mag-ingat at manatiling buhay." Nagpa-cute ako sa kaniya na ikina-irap niya.
Panira naman ng moment namin ang pager niya na tumunog. Isinubo niya nang buo ang natitira niyang donut bago sumimsim ng kape.
"I'll go na, shee you later! Byee!" Hindi pa niya nalulunok ang pagkain ay agad siyang tumakbo paalis. Napabuntong-hininga ako bago dinampot ang kape niyang natira at kahit mapait ay inubos iyon.
Bumalik ako saglit sa kumpanya para pumunta sa opisina ko. Pero laking gulat ko nang pagdating ko doon ay isa-isa na nilang inilalabas ang mga gamit ko.
"Sir, ipinapalipat na po ng Dad niyo ang mga gamit niyo sa opisina ni Mr. Villanueva." ani ni Maze nang tumayo lang ako sa gilid habang natatameme na pinapanood sila.
Nilingon ko si Maze habang naguguluhan pa rin, "Agad? Ngayong hapon na agad?" Gulat kong tanong at tumango si Maze.
"Yes Sir, para bukas daw po, sa bagong office na kayo magtatrabaho." sagot niya at utay-utay akong tumango.
Hinayaan ko nalang silang maglipat ng mga gamit ko. Tinatanong ako ng mga ito kung alin ang mga gusto kong ilipat at iiwan nalang dito. Tumulong din ako sa paila-ilang gamit lalo pa kung mga importante o babasagin ang mga ito.
Bandang alas quatro ay umuwi ako ng bahay at naligo na. Naghanda na ako para sa pagpunta sa isang event hall na nirentahan pa ni Dad.
Hindi ko alam kung gusto niya bang maging magarbo ito para sa akin o para ma-impress ang mga investors na galing pang ibang bansa?
Bago ako umalis ng bahay ay biglang tumawag si Grey na kakauwi palang sa kanila. Kinamusta ko lang ang mag-ama ko bago nagpaalam na at nag-drive papuntang hall.
Nanibago ako sa mga mukha ng mga tao nang dumating venue. Marami na agad ang bumati at nakipagkamay sa akin. Ang mga babae ay bumebeso pa sa akin na medyo ikina-iilang ko.
Maraming mga press at photographers ang pumunta. Nasabihan naman ako na may mga reporters na dadalo subalit hindi ko inakala na ganito pala sila karami sa puntong pakiramdam ko ay artista ako sa dami ng camera o microphone na nakatapat sa akin. Ilang beses din akong kinunan ng picture sa may red carpet at ilang tanong na agad ang narinig ko.
Si Maze ay agad akong hinigit palayo sa mga reporters nang simula akong dumugin ng mga ito. Dinala na niya ako sa presidential table kung nasaan ang mga investors na inimbitahan ni Dad.
And of course, I had to talk and discuss with them. They already asked me about my future plans for the company. I also made sure I'm giving them a good impression, just in case they're also planning to invest in our company here.
I do most of the talking while Dad sits next to me. I would glance at him from time to time, and I would see him looking at me as if he were... proud of what I was doing.
It was around more than an hour of talking to the investors when my phone beeped inside my pocket. I checked the message and immediately excused myself when I saw Grey's message.
From: Rafael Grey
We're outside the hall. Nahihiya kaming pumasok dahil sa dami ng press sa labas.
My eyes grew wide after reading his message. I immediately dialed his number before rushing out of the venue, catching the attention of some media.
"Hello? Nasaan kayo?" Bahagya pa akong hinihingal habang tumatakbo.
[Uhm..]
[Andito sa may... paso ng halaman tapos may... ilaw.] Nag-aalinlangang sagot ni Grey.
Napasaltik ako ng dila.
Paso? At ilaw? Design yan ng paligid, eh. Nakapalibot 'yan sa buong venue.
[Ayan! Ikaw 'yan! Sa kaliwa— ay, likod mo pala.] Bigla akong natigilan sa pagtakbo. Paglingon ko sa likuran ko ay pader naman ito kaya napakunot ang noo ko nang marinig ang pagtawa ni Grey.
[Silly, on your left,] he said.
I immediately looked to my side. Grey ended the call before he waved his hand, while holding our daughter with his other hand.
A smile grew on my lips before walking towards them. Chiara immediately rushed towards me. I noticed her new dress, which made me gasp as I crouched down to welcome her with a hug.
"Ang ganda naman ng anak ko! Did Daddy Grey buy that for you?" I asked as I stood up and lifted her in my arms.
She nodded, "Yes po! It's pretty diba, Daddy?" tanong niya at agad akong tumango habang naglalakad palapit kay Grey na nakatayo sa likod ng isang malaking paso na may nakatanim na puno.
"Hey," I was about to kiss him when he pulled away.
"May press, baka makita tayo." bulong niya at napakunot ang noo ko.
"So what?" I asked.
He looked around as if he were hiding, "Nakakahiya. Baka mapicture-an tayo." sagot niya at lalong kumunot ang noo ko.
"Again, so what, Grey?" I asked again, a bit irritated.
He sighed before holding my wrist, "Gusto mo bang imbes na tungkol sa inauguration mo ang laman ng headline, ay mapaltan pa ng bali-balita tungkol sa pagiging bakla mo?" tanong niya at napabuntong-hininga ako bago siya hinawakan sa pulso.
"Who cares about the media? Who cares about what people will say or think? You two matter more than anything and anyone else." I replied before walking in the direction of the main entrance.
Grey squirmed and forcefully took his hand away from my grip, which made me stop in my tracks and look back at him with my brows furrowed, "Sige na, kayo nalang muna ang pumasok. Maghahanap nalang ako ng ibang entrance," ani niya at doon ay bumagsak ang balikat ko.
"Grey—"
"Hintayin muna natin na maibigay na sa'yo ang position bago natin ilantad ang relasyon natin. Baka... bawiin pa ni Tito sa'yo." Putol niya sa akin.
Napabuntong-hininga ako bago tumango. Gusto ko pa man sumagot at ipaliwanag sa kaniya na wala akong pake sa kung ano man ang sabihin ng iba, lalo na ni Dad, ay hinayaan ko nalang siya.
Nanatili siyang nakatayo sa gilid na iyon habang dinala ko sa loob ang anak ko.
Muli kaming sinalubong ng mga press at media. Si Chiara ay agad sumobsob sa dibdib ko para iwasan ang mga flash ng camera. Mabuti nalang at nilapitan kami ng guards at sinamahan hanggang sa makarating sa presidential table.
The investors started talking to my daughter. Chiara seems shy at first, but soon gets comfortable talking to them.
Si Dad ay malalim ang tingin sa amin subalit hindi galit ang mga mata niya. Malalim lang. Walang emosyon subalit makabuluhan.
Nang magsimula ang program ay naglibot ako ng tingin para hanapin si Grey. Noong una ay nasisilaw pa ako sa mga ilaw. Subalit nang makilala ang matangkad at maputi na pigura sa malayo ay parehas kaming nagkangitian.
Maya-maya ay nag-message na ito sa akin.
From: Rafael Grey
You miss me already?
From: Rafael Grey
Just tell me if you want to help me get off this suit, hindi ako kakain.
Napakagat ako sa labi ko nang mabasa ang message niya. Itinago ko pa ang cellphone ko para maiwasan na masilip ng anak ko o ni Dad sa tabi ko.
I tried to contain my emotions and smile. I acted as if I'm not heating up as I type a reply for Grey,
To: Rafael Grey
Eat, masarap 'yang mga pagkain.
To: Rafael Grey
And hold your horses. Baka sunggaban mo ako bigla.
Nilingon ko si Grey at nakitang napatawa ito habang nakatayo sa gilid. Nang mag-angat ito ng tingin ay nagkatinginan kami. Hinambaan pa niya ako ng suntok na ikinangisi ko lang bago nagbalik ng tingin sa nagsasalita sa unahan.
Mr. Villanueva gave his speech in front of everyone. I must say that he did a great job running the company for years. It's just sad that he will have to step down from the position due to his age and health.
We went on stage when it was time to present is plaque. He gave us all a warm smile that I will surely miss in the office.
"Maraming salamat, Ninong." ani ko nang kamayan niya ako. Gumuhit ang ngiti sa labi niya bago ako tinapik sa balikat, "I'm sure you'll do good, Code. I'm sure you will." he said which actually moved my heart and lessen the tension inside me.
Then it was time to introduce me. I was shy at first watching some of my pictures on the big projector screen. Chiara would be amazed at the awards and achievements I received, and couldn't even believe I actually did all of those.
I glanced at Grey, who was watching from the back, his arms crossed as his eyes were focused on the screen.
Is he proud of me? I hope he is.
I was then called on stage to give my statement of commitment, which only lasted around two and a half minutes. Even though there's a lot of camera flashing and lights straight onto my face, I could still see Chiara cheering for me and Grey clapping at a distance.
Then it was time for my acceptance speech, which I am most nervous about.
I first thanked myself, of course, which made everyone chuckle. Then I mentioned the schools I attended and everything else that helped me hone my skills as a lawyer. I also thanked and mentioned the people whom I worked with in Canada, even though they are not here. Then thanked the people from the office, and even specially mentioned Maze, who was busy eating at her table.
"And... to my father," I looked at the presidential table.
I locked eyes with Dad, whom I gave a nod, "Thank you."
It wasn't easy being your son. I experienced hell on earth because of you. For some reason, even though you were an absent father, I could still feel your presence, which was not good. I could still feel the burden on my shoulder for some reason. And I hated the fact that growing up, I could feel how much you didn't love me.
You ruined my life, my relationship, my happiness, and my dreams. You ruined everything. Because of you, I had to lose Grey and let him go for years. I had to suffer and live with fear.
But I guess, thank you for giving me life. At least I get to live and meet Grey. And thank you for giving me Chiara. I get to be a father, which is something you failed to be.
"And to my daughter," I pointed at her.
"Daddy!!" She waved her hand.
My eyes grew wide when she suddenly stood on her chair. I got scared for a second since she might fall, but my shoulders dropped when Dad grabbed her by her waist and carefully sat her back down on her seat.
I forced a smile, "You're the most precious thing in my life, anak. You are my inspiration to keep going even during dark times. You are the one who's lighting up my day and giving me hope that everything will be alright." I suddenly felt emotional. I remember the times I used to suffer in Canada.
In the middle of a very hectic night, when Chiara would burst into tears and ask for milk, feeding her seemed to be the most relaxing thing I could ever do. Gently rocking her in my arms, humming her random lullabies brings me peace.
"Totoo palang... mawawala lahat ng problema mo kapag nakikita mong masaya ang anak mo." I looked around everyone before I could even shed a tear.
I flipped the last page of my paper, which only included one paragraph.
I cleared my throat, "And... to my partner, and future..." I smiled while everyone around gasped.
"To my future... husband,"
I saw a lot of jaws drop. Aside from people gasping with the sudden news, I started hearing whispers, specially from the media and reporters.
I licked my lower lip, "Thank you for... the second chance. Thank you for... giving me this chance to prove and show you how strong my love is this time. And I promise— no, I'll make sure to keep you safe, together with our daughter, as long as I'm here."
I thanked everyone, stepped back from the mic, folded the paper I was holding, and slipped it inside my coat.
Chiara ran towards me as she welcomed me at the stairs. I immediately lifted her and kissed her on the cheek as we walked back towards our table.
Investors started congratulating me not just for the position but for my wedding. They were asking me about him, and I told them all the great traits Grey has.
I was chugging my water when Dad suddenly leaned into my ear.
"After the program, introduce me to him," he said.
And for some reason, I felt shivers down my spine. I froze, my eyes grew wide as it suddenly felt familiar.
"After the ceremony, don't forget."
His exact words from my college graduation, where he asked me to break up with Grey, echoed in my mind. Though it didn't sound the same, to me... it was as if he's asking me to do the same thing.
Natakot ako bigla.
Lumakas ang kalabog ng dibdib ko at tumango lang sa sinabi ni Dad bago agad kinuha ang cellphone sa bulsa ko at nag-message kay Grey.
To: Rafael Grey
Don't go anywhere else. Just stay where I can see you.
From: Rafael Grey
Why? Problem?
To: Rafael Grey
Wala naman.
To: Rafael Grey
Basta, keep safe. 'Wag ka munang pumunta kung saan-saan.
Rafael Grey Chua reacted to your message.
When it was finally time to eat, different cuisines were served on our table. Some were familiar, while some were new to my eyes.
I first took care of my daughter's food, putting small portions of every food she'd point at on her plate. I also helped her put on the table napkin on her to avoid staining the dress Grey bought for her.
"Sarap?" tanong ko rito habang kumakain kami.
Agad namilog ang mga mata niya bago tumango habang ngumunguya ng pagkain niya. "OMG!! Yes po!! So yummy!" she exclaimed which made us both giggle.
She accidentally dropped the fork she was holding, and the sound of the metal hitting the tiled floor echoed around our table, which caught the attention of the investors.
"Oops..." she muttered under he breath.
I just smiled and picked up the fork under her seat, "It's fine, you can have mine." I gave her the fork I was using.
She smiled back at me before taking another bite of her food.
I looked at my back to find Grey. It took me a few seconds before I finally saw him eating together with Anthony.
I immediately got jealous. As much as I want to stand up and walk towards them, I don't want to leave my daughter with my father and all these other men at the table.
I cleared my throat, placed down the spoon on my plate, and picked up my phone to message Grey.
To: Rafael Grey
Nakikita ko kayo ni Anthony, nagseselos ako.
I went straight to the point. What's so bad about expressing what you feel? Mabuti nang alam niya na nagseselos ako kay Anthony kaysa naman bigla ko silang batuhin ng flower vase na nasa harapan ko ngayon.
Nilingon ko si Grey at pinanood siyang damputin ang cellphone niya. Ilang segundo niya itong pinagmasdan bago nag-angat ng ulo at agad nagtagpo ang mga mata namin.
Umiling ito, ngumisi, bago nagtipa sa cellphone niya.
From: Rafael Grey
We're talking about what happened before.
From: Rafael Grey
It was about the sex, yes. But we're just laughing about it. No need to worry.
After reading his reply, I glanced back at him, pouting, which made him smile. He pointed in the direction of the bathroom, which is at the side of the venue. I just gave him a nod and continued eating.
Dad suddenly moved his chair, pushing himself away from the table, which caught my attention.
"I'll just use the restroom," Paalam niya.
Tumango lang ako at hindi na siya gaanong pinansin bago muling sumubo ng pagkain.
It was a solid two minutes, the music playing, the lights dancing, and almost everyone talking.
I glanced at my phone, which was just beside my plate. I also noticed Dad hasn't come back from the bathroom since his seat is still empty. I picked up my phone to check if Grey had sent me another message.
But to my disappointment, he didn't. I looked at my back to glance at his seat, only to find it empty too.
That's when realization hit me.
He went to the bathroom, and Dad did too.
Don't tell me they... saw each other?!
"Anak, come!" Kahit busy kumain ng pasta ang anak ko ay agad ko itong binuhat.
Napatakbo ako sa gawi ni Maze at iniwan sa kaniya si Chiara bago humaripas ng takbo ppaunta ng banyo na naka-agaw ng atensyon ng karamihan.
"Grey!" I barged into the bathroom only to find each cubicle empty.
A hiss escaped my lips before I rushed back out, scanning the entire room with my eyes.
I saw an exit door a few meters away from me. Without thinking about anything else aside from finding Grey, I immediately ran outside.
"Grey!! Where are you?! Grey!!" I sounded hysterical.
My heartbeat started pounding like it wants to jump out ot my chest. I started panting and gasping for air even though I hadn't run that much.
I felt hopeless after finding nothing on the side of the building. It was just parked cars and the humongous vases that are placed around the whole building.
"Grey..." I breathed out.
Shit... no, no please, no. 'Wag naman sana. 'Wag.
—---
a/n: last chapter na next ksksksks
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