Copyright 2012 by Rinhice Garcia All rights reserved.

. Cover design by Rinhice Garcia No part of this story may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means including information storage and retrieval systems, without permission in writing from the author. The only exception is by a reviewer, who may quote short excerpts in a review. This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the authors imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Shut Up and Marry Me!

By SweetReverie

Prologue
"Ugly stick!"

"Handsome idiot!"

"Andito ka nanaman!"

"Ba't ba andito ka!?"

STOP. Kay gandang intro. Di naman kami brutal. Kaya lang, hindi talaga kami compatible nitong lalaking to! Ewan ko ba naman kay lolo, pilit kaming pinagsasama! Teka nga!

"Oi pwede ba, handsome idiot! Dun ka sa kabilang couch! Letche!" sigaw ko kay Nathan. Sya lang naman ang dakilang lalaking habulin ng mga babae. And, excuse me lang ha, hindi dahil 'handsome idiot' ang tawag ko sa kanya eh pinupuri ko na sya. Ang ibig sabihin ko dun sa 'handsome idiot' eh kahit gwapo sya, masama sya and he's an idiot! Akala nya nga nung una, pinupuri ko sya. Anung feeling nya nun?! Kaya, hala. Inexplain ko sa kanya ng bonggang-bongga ba't ganun tawag ko sa kanya. After ko magexplain, binatukan ako. TAMA BA YUN?! EH SA TOTOO NAMAN YUNG SINABI KO!!!

"Dun talaga ako pupwesto! Baka maputol ka pag tumabi ako sayo kasi ang payat mo!" sigaw din nya. Aba't naghahanap ata to ng gyera?!?!

"Oi! HINDI AKO PAYAT!" sigaw ko din sa kanya tapos binato yung lalagyan ng salamin na nakita ko sa side table.

"Anong hindi?! Nangangarap ka?!" umiwas sya then he smirked mockingly. Aaslkhklsdhkjsalksdsaddsaf!!! Nakakabadtrip tong lalaking to!!!

"Aba't--"

"Pwede ba Nathan, Gianna, wag kayong mag-away agad pagkakita nyo," lolo interrupted nung bubulyawan ko na si Nathan. Andito kasi kami sa office ni lolo. Kaninang pumasok kami ni Nathan dito, wala sya so nag-away kami agad."You are both 17 years old so will you just both act a little more mature?"

"Eh lolo naman kasi." I complained.

"Ba't ba kasi pinatawag nyo tong si ugly stick." Nathan mumbled. paksyet na lalaki to!

"Pwede ba!" bulyaw ko sa kanya. Nakakarami na tong lalaking to ah?! Oops. "Sorry, 'lo." I mumbled nung nagbuntong-hiniga lolo ko.

"Both of you shut up and let me talk." sabi ni lolo with a voice full of authority. Nathan and I stopped mocking each other. Mabait lolo namin pero pag sumosobra na kami, strict na sya. "At the age of 18, magpapakasal kayo."

HUH!?!?

Chapter 1: Oh please. Humor me.

"Both of you shut up and let me talk." sabi ni lolo with a voice full of authority. Nathan and I stopped mocking each other. Mabait lolo namin pero pag sumosobra na kami, strict na sya. "At the age of 18, magpapakasal kayo."

HUH!?

"What the hell are you talking about, old man?!?!" sigaw agad ni Nathan. Wala talagang galang to kahit kailan. Pero, di nga?! Papakasal kami?!?! Ano nanaman kalokohan tong gusto ni lolo?!?!?!?

"I'm talking about your marriage." lolo smiled. Parang nakakaloko pa ata si lolo eh.

"What's the deal?" asked Nathan.

Teka, teka. Anong 'what's the deal'?!?!? Sapakin ko ata tong lalaking to eh!!

"Here are the terms." sabi ni lolo tapos may inabot na paper kay Nathan. Then, nag-abot din sya ng copy sa akin. Tahimik kong kinuha yun. Shocked parin kasi ako sa sinabi ni lolo. Di ko alam anung sasabihin ko.

"Nice terms, old man. Meron lang akong di gusto. Yung nos. 9 and 10." smirked Nathan.

9 and 10? Ano ba yun? Mabasa nga.

9. You are both allowed to do nos. 7 and 8 if and only if you both fall in love with each other. 10. Give me great grandkids.

Tekaa. Anu raaaaw?!?

Binasa ko yung lahat ng terms. At ang naisip ko. Patayin na lang nila ako.

Wanna know why? Eto:

I want great grandkids terms. (Teka.. Baduy magbigay ng title ni lolo. Tss.) 1. Be in relationship with each other.

2. Go out in a date every weekend. 3. Marry each other at the age of 18. 4. Live in one house. 5. ALWAYS WEAR YOUR WEDDING RINGS. 6. Respect each others privacy. 7. NEVER sleep in one bed. 8. NEVER HAVE SEX. 9. You are both allowed to do nos. 7 and 8 if and only if you both fall in love to each other. 10. Give me great grandkids.

Walyanghanep na terms. Ba't ganyan?!?!?!

"'lo naman eh!!" I cried. Sa wakas nakapagsalita na ako! "Tingin mo, papatulan ko to?!"

"Hoy ugly stick, wag kang feeling!" sigaw naman ni Nathan. "Mas di kita papatulan!" then he turned to lolo. "Ano namang makukuha ko dito, ha, tanda?"

Sarap lang sapakin eh! Tapos walang galang!! Parang di pinalaki ni lolo!

"Hmm. I guess lahat ng mana nyo." lolo just smiled. I sighed. Sanay na talaga si lolo kay Nathan. "Wala namang mawawala, diba? You've got a year to meet those 10 terms. I see no harm on you both trying. Pag di talaga kayo, fine. I'll give the half of my properties sa ampunan and the other half sa church."

Loko rin si lolo eh. =____=

"Ok. I'm fine with that. Papakasalan ko lang naman pala si ugly stick eh." Nathan shrugged then gave the contract to lolo.

Tinignan ko sya ng masama tapos binigay narin yung copy ko kay lolo.

Lolo glanced at me. "I see hindi ka kumokontra,"

Oo nga no? Ba't di ako kumokontra?!?! "Teka, teka 'lo. Ba't kailangan kong pakasalan tong pangit na to?!"

"Secret," lolo chuckled. Lanyanghanep. Parang teen-ager lang si lolo!

"Kung alam ko lang, pinagnanasahan mo ako." bulong ni Nathan.

I kicked his knee. "ASA KA PA! TSAKA TEKA LANG 'LO. BA'T SI NATHAN LANG YUNG MAY MAKUKUHA PAG NAGAWA YUNG 10 TERMS NA YAN!?!?"

Lolo frowned. "Sinong nagsabing sya lang yung may makukuha? Meron ka rin."

Ha?? Teka, teka. "Weh. Ano?"

"Yung mana mo." lolo said simply.

Mana ko? Hihi. $_______$

"Hmm. Wala namang mawawala kung try namin diba?" sabi ko. Kung makukuha ko yung mana ko pag pinakasalan ko si handsome idiot, pwede na akong magpakalayo-layo sa kanya after!!!! Oshigeeee!!!! "Sige 'lo! Payag na ako!"

"And you, Nathan?" lolo asked Nathan.

"Fine with me. Sawa na rin akong hinahabol ng mga babae. i'll take a rest for a while." nagsmile pa sya sa akin. Yung nakakaloko. Hagis ko to sa mars eh.

Lolo smiled then inabot ulit yung contracts sa amin and ballpen. Tapos, after naming pirmahan, nagsalita sya ulit. "Wala ng bawian to. Void tong contract na to until next year."

I nodded grudgingly.

"And, that's that. Humayo na kayo at ipagkalat na kayo na." lolo said, clearly dismissing us.

Tumayo na ako. Wala rin naman mangyayari kung uupo nalang ako dun.

"Teka lang, tanda. Di ba pwedeng bukas na namin pagkalat na "kami" na?" kontra naman ni handsome idiot. Napahinto ako. Ano nanaman kayang masamang pananalita sasabihin nya tungkol sa akin? =___=

Kung pwede nga, wag na pagkalat eh. Naisip ko. Kung pwede lang talaga!

"Aba bakit?" tanong ni lolo.

"Makikipag-break muna ako sa mga girlfriends ko." sagot naman ni handsome idiot. Wow. Girlfriend s. Habulin talaga ng babae kahit kailan. Pero, pake ko ba?!?! Atleast wala syang sinabing masama tungkol sa akin. Makalabas na nga!

Paglabas ko ng office ni lolo, pinagmasdan ko yung mga nadadaanan ko. So kung magawa namin ni handsome idiot yung term, kami na siguro hahawak nito. I love the idea! Tutal matalino naman si hampas-lupang handsome idiot, sya na bahala magpalakad nito. Ako naman, gagala! Pupunta ako sa Paris! sa Venice! Sa America! Magpapakalayo ako sa hampas-lupang yon!

"Oi ugly stick!"

"Ay baklang crocodile!" napatalon ako! Grabe naman kasi tong hampas-lupang handsome idiot eh! Gulatin ba ako?!?! Gusto akong patayin?!? "Napano ka!? Ha!?!"

"Ano tinatawa-tawa mo kanina? Para ka lang baliw eh." tumawa sya ng nakakainis. "Natuluyan ka na no? Kasi papakasalan mo ang isang perpektong tulad ko."

"Oh, please. Humor me." I rolled my eyes. Kapal ng face!

He smirked. "Sure."

Then. He kissed me.

God damn.

Chapter 2: Lord, You must be joking.

I blew my right hand. Aww. Walangya kasi yung lalaking yun. Halikan ba ako?!?! Dapat nilagay ni lolo sa terms na bawal ako halikan, hawakan, kausapin o kahit tignan man lang! Grrr.

*Flashback*

I struggled but Nathan just tried to deepen his kiss. Langyanghanep tong hampaslupang handsome idiot na to! Anong feeling nya, kami talaga?!?! asdkjaskljahshjhsashh!!!!

Nung nakaka 20 seconds na sya (binilang ko talaga!) kinagat ko labi nya pero, p*ksy*t na kung p*ksy*t. Ayaw tumigil! Tumawa pa nung kinagat ko!

Dahil na rin sa sobrang di ako nag-eenjoy sa halik nya, sinuntok ko yung gilid nya. Ampupu. Malay ko bang may dala-dala syang laptop?!?!?! Yun nasuntok ko! Nasira pa nga ata eh.

"Sarap?" Nathan teased pero before ako makabanat, iniwan nya na akong nakatayo don. Argghh!!

*end*

Malay ko bang may dala syang laptop! Malamang sa malamang, masasaktan ko kamay ko! Yun ba naman kasi patamaan?! Katangahan lang eh, Gianna! Katangahan lang! Badtrip na buhay! Sarap maglaslas! Pakamatay na lang sy--

Drop everything now. Meet me in the pouring rain. Kiss me on the side walk, take away the pain.

I took my phone out of my pocket irritatedly. Nagsasabi-sabi naman kasi ako, nag-iingay phone ko!

"Ano ba Ash?! Nagmumuni-muni ako!" I yelled. Badtrip kasi ako!

"Oy bakla! Wag ka ngang sumigaw dyan! Gusto mong mapunta sa labas ng earth!?" sigaw din nya. Nilayo ko ng konti yung phone ko sa tenga ok. "At, oy! Hindi Ash ang namesung ko! Ashley! with L-E-Y!"

Grabe lang eh. "Oo na, oo na. Napatawag ka?" sabi ko na lang. Ayaw ko na masigawan. Baka mabasag ear-drum ko.

"Aketch?? Napatawag? Oy babaeng nagngangalang Gianna, di ba may gimik tayo?! Hahanap ako ng mga papa!" sigaw nanaman nya sa akin. Isa pang sigaw nya, sisigawan ko na rin sya!

"Sorry naman! May prinoproblema lang." I sighed. I decided na sasabihin ko sa kanila yung kalokohan ni lolo. Bestfriends ko naman mga to.

"Ay! Keri lang yan girl. Osya sya. Magbihis ka na. Punta tayo dun sa fave bar ng barkada. Andun na sina Aaron and Denice. Sunduin kita dyan sa bahay nyo." said Ash.. err.. I mean Ashley then hung up.

I smiled. Mag-bonding kami ng mga bestfriends ko. Buti nalang andyan sila. Kailangan ko ng konting comedy sa buhay.

Tumayo na ako sa pagkakaupo sa kama ko and namili na ng isusuot. Red dress yung napili ko. With matching boots. **pic on the side** Sayang ang beauty ko kung magmumukmok ako! Nung ready na ako and sinigaw-sigawan na ako ni Ash..ley, bumaba na ako ng kwarto ko.

"Ay girl! Type ko dress mo! Pahiram minsan ha?" Ash.. Uhm.. Ashley greeted me then yinakap ako. I smiled. Buti na lang talaga andito tong baklang to! Napaka-optimistic talaga! Haha. Yup. Bakla si Ash kaya nga tatawagin ko nalang syang Ashley kasi baka malibing nya ako ng buhay.

"Wag kang feeling bakla! Masisira ang dress ko pagsinuot mo." I smiled.

Inirapan nalang ako ni Ashley but smiled. "Tara na nga girl. Kanina ka pa hinihintay nila papa Aaron and baklang Denice."

**

"Girl ano yung problem mo? Kanina ka pa tahimik." asked Ashley pagkapasok namin ng bar. I inhaled the familiar smell of the bar. Lagi kaming tumatambay dito kasi sina baklang Ashley lang naman ang may-ari nito. And, don't, don't, don't look down upon this bar. 1st clas bar ata to. Kelangan VIP ka bago makapasok. Eh syempre, BFFs kami nila Ashley so VIP kami! Hehe.

"Mamaya na lang sa table. Gusto ko i-share sa inyo lahat." I said.

"Sus, baklang Gianna. Nasa tapat na tayo ng table." Ashley rolled her(?) eyes. "Hi Aaron! Denice!"

I chuckled then smiled to them. A word about my BFFs. Apat kaming magkakasama lagi. Ako, si Denice, Aaron and baklang Ashley. Si Denice lang naman po ang pinakatahimik, pinakamahinhin at pinakamatinong babae... sa kabaliktaran. Hahaha. Tapos, si Aaron ang nag-iisang guy bestfriend namin. Ewan ko ba ba't napasama to sa amin. Pero mabait yan. Sa panaginip. Joke. Haha. At syempre. Ang dakilang baklang si Ash na tawagin daw nating Ashley. One word. Malandi. wahahahaha! Mababait lahat ng mga yan. Di naman kami pasaway eh. Love na love ko nga mga yan eh.

"O anong yung problema mo?" asked Aaron.

"Kagagawan ng dakila mong lolo no?" Denice rolled her eyes. Ala eh. Si lolo lang naman nagbibigay sa akin ng problema. Wahe.

"Maya ko na sabihin guys. I just want to enjoy myself." I told them. Di naman sila nangulit.

So nag-order na kami ng juice. Yep. Juice. Di umiinom ng alak dabarkads ko. Good influence kaya mga to. Mukha lang hindi. Wahahaha.

Nagplano kaming tatlo ng gagawin after this. Ang gusto ni Denice, mag-malling daw. Si Aaron naman, kahit saan. Ako rin, kahit saan. So It's been decided na mag-mall kami after this. Nagtataka kayo ba't missing in action si baklang Ashley? Kasi naman, ayun sya. Naghanap na ng lalaki. Naiwan kaming tatlo. Si Aaron and Denice naman, kwentuhan lang ng kwentuhan. Ako nanahimik. Naiisip ko parin kasi yung ginawa ni hamapslupang handsome idiot. Nakakapikon lang eh. Grr.

Nagawi yung tingin ko sa may bar. Haha. NO. It can't be him. VIP lang nakakapasok dito. Kamukha lang nya siguro. I sighed. Langya kasi yung lalaking yun eh!

"Uy Gianna!" lumapit si Ashley sa akin tapos hinila. "Help mo nga ako makahanap ng papa. MAs madali pag kasama ka eh."

I just rolled my eyes then smiled. Pagbigyan na. Sigurado namang mababaliw itong baklang to pag sinabi ko na yung problema ko.

So, here I am. Nakikisayaw kay Ashley. Tapos may sumingit na guy. Ay! Pogi! Hahahaha.

"Hi miss. May I know your name?" papa pogi asked. Wahe. O diba. Effective ang beauty ko. Hindi totoo yung sinasabi ni handsome idiot na payatot ako!

"The name is Gi--"

Aw! Anak ng baboy! Hilahin ba ako ng kung sinong asungot!?!

"Nice to see you here, ugly stick," sabi ni, sino pa ba? Eh di si Nathan the handsome idiot.

"What the eff are you doing here?" I growled. Makita ko palang pagmumukha nya, naiinis na ako!

"Dancing with you, I guess." he shrugged. Gawin ba akong tanga?

Inirapan ko syan then hinarap si papa pogi. Buti di sya umalis. "I'm sorry about that,"

papa pogi smiled. "It's fine. And the name is?"

"Gia--" sabi ko pero biglang tinulak ni hampaslupang handsome idiot si papa pogi!

"Get away from my fiancee." Nathan the handsome idiot yelled. As in yelled! Napatigil pa nga mga nakarinig sa kanya.

And I can see Ashley's expression. Ganito o. 0_0

"Ano ba Nathan! We're not engaged!" I yelled! Anung feeling mo lalaki! HA?!?!

"Yes we are."

"Di naman pala kayo eh." sabi nung papa pogi. Then he smiled at me.

"Stop flirting!" Nathan yelled at me.

Nag-init ulo ko dun. So, ako pa nakikipag-flirt?!?! Sya nga tong flirt eh! Tapos ano pinagsasabi nya!

"No one touches my girl except me!" he said loudly then pulled me.

Paksyet.

He kissed me.

God damn times two.

Oh Lord, You must be joking. Ano ba ginawa ko? T________T

Chapter 3: Getting Even? Wait for Revenge.

*Gianna's POV*

"Di ka talaga marunong humalik." bulong ni Nathan sa akin bago ako binitawan.

Walangayanghanep?! Ako pa ngayon ang di marunong humalik?!? Lokohan ba to?

Sa sobrang inis ko, nasuntok ko si Nathan. Yung uppercut! Kaya ayun. Pinagtitinginan kami ng mga tao. Napahinto nga lahat and natahimik. Pinapanood lang kami.

Nathan smirked. Yung nakakaloko. "Hala ka, ugly stick. Lagot ka sa girlfriend ko."

HA? Ah.. EH.. "HA!? Anong lagot ako sa girlfriend mo!? Lagot ka kay lolo! Isusumbong ko lahat ng kalokohan mo! Bahala ka sa buhay mo!!!" I yelled at him then pulled Ashley off the dance floor.

Nakakainis! Nakakabadtrip!! Papamurder ko yun!! Lagot sya kay lolo!!!

"uy bakla. Anong nagyari dun?" tanong ni Ashley pagkaupo namin sa pwesto namin. "Sino ba yung papa na hinalikan ka?"

"Ano?!?!? May humalik kay Gianna?! Sino?!" shocked na sabi ni Aaron tapos tumayo bigla. Tinamaan pa si Denice. Loko to. "Sino yung lokong yun!?!??! Resbakan natin! Oi, Ashley! Magpakalalaki ka muna at samahan mo akong resbakan yun!"

"Oi Aaron! Anong magpakalalaki?! Babae aketch! Anebe!" bulyaw ni Ashley. Walangyang bakla. Haha.

"OA much, Aaron?" hinila ko si Aaron paupo sa upuan nya. "Stay still and let me talk."

Ayon, nanahimik naman sila pero kinailangan kong lakasan ang boses ko kasi maingay sa loob ng bar. "Yung humalik sa akin, si Nathan yun. Sya yun--"

"Nathan!?" Denice interrupted. "Yung pinsan mo?! Ba't ka naman hahalikan nun?!? Pinsan ka nga di ba?!"

Napakamot ako ng ulo. "Patapusin naman kasi ako."

"Dali na bakla!" sabi Ashley. I rolled my eyes.

"Hindi ko sya talaga cousin. Ano. Mahirap kasi explain eh. Ganto. Yung kasing father ko, ninong si lolo. Eh alam nyo naman nangyari sa family namin kaya napunta ako kina lolo. So ayun, we considered each

other as cousins." I continued, "Tapos, dahil sa gusto kong magpakalayo-layo sa hampaslupang handsome idiot na yun, inaccept ko yung offer ni lolo na pakasalan si Nathan."

"Ano!?!?!" sabay sabay nilang sigaw. Anebe. Nabingi ako dun!

I rolled my eyes. "Ano bang mahirap intindihin sa sinabi ko?"

"Lahat." they chorused. Aw?

"Di naman mahirap intindihin eh." I said. Ang ayos ko kayang inexpalin. =__=

"Di ba gusto mo magpakalayo sa kanya?" tanong ni Aaron. I nodded. "Eh ba't pumayag kang pakasalan sya?"

Ahh. Yun ba? "Eh kasi pag pinakasalan ko sya, makukuha ko mana ko. Hihi."

They shook their heads. Eh wala eh. College pa lang ako. 17 palang ako. Alangan naman magpakalayolayo ako kay handsome idiot and lolo gamit yumg sarili kong pera?! Ni Japan, di ko mapupuntahan sa sarili kong pera eh. =____= And kay handsome idiot ko lang gusto lumayo. Ayoko namang lumayo kay lolo no!

"Oi ugly stick. Sumama ka sa akin kung ayaw mo matigok ng mga girlfriends ko." singit bigla ni handsome idiot.

I glared at him. "Ayoko nga!!! Pake ko sa mga babae mo! Upakan ko pa sila eh!"

"Sa tingin mo, pababayaan namin si Gianna?" Aaron said.

"And pwede ba, don't ignore us like we're nothing. Ikaw naman tong epal na nakikielam kay Gianna eh." dagdag naman ni Denice.

"Ay, pogi. Kahit pogi ka, wapakels ako. Di pwedeng ganyan-ganyanin ang aking dear friendlalu!" sabi naman ni Ashley.

Despite of what's happening, I can't help but smile. Pinagtatanggol ako ng mga dear friends ko kay handsome idiot eh. :)

"Wala kayong alam kaya wag na kayo makielam. Tara na ugly stick!" bulyaw ni handsome idiot tapos hinila ako!

Of course I struggled! "Ano ba?! Wag ka munang makielam sa buhay ko, pwede ba?! Di pa tayo kasal, nakikielam ka na!"

"Shut up!" he yelled irritatedly then pulled me away from my friends.

Tumayo sila para sundan ako but nag-ok na lang ako sa kanila. I know handsome idiot well enough to know na hindi nya ako ibabalik sa mga kaibigan ko hangga't di ako sumasama sa kanya.

We entered his car in silence. Di ko sya pinapansin. Nakakainis naman kasi sya!

"Oi ugly stick, di ka ba magpapsalamat. Niligtas kita sa mga girlfriends ko." he said after a looooooooooooooooooooong silence.

I looked at bewilderedly. "Ako? Magpapasalamat? Para saan? Para sa paninira mo ng gabi ko? Ha! Are you freaking kidding me?!"

"Sinira ko ba gabi mo?" he asked before stopping in front of the house. Sa iisang bahay lang naman kasi kami nakatira ni lolo and si handsome idiot. Gusto lang nagsasarili ni handsome idiot kaya nagpabili ng condo. So, madalang na lang sya matulog sa bahay. *applause*

I glared at him. "OO! SINIRA MO! PALIBHASA KASI, WALA KANG KAIBIGAN KAYA DI MO ALAM KUNG GAANO KASAYA PAG KASAMA MO MGA KAIBIGAN MO! LONER KA KASI! PURO BABAE LANG NAKIKITA MO! WALA KANG ALAM KUNDI MAKIPAG-LANDIAN!!!! KAYA SIGURO WALA KANG KAIBIGAN KASI HINDI KA MARUNONG MAKIPAGKAIBIGAN! YOU'RE A FREAK!!! A FREEEAK! A FREAKY IDIOT!! I HATE YOU!!! TINGIN MO GWAPO KA??!?! ANG PANGIT MO!!! ANG PANGITPANGIT NG UGALI MO!!!! YOU'RE A FAKE! A PLASTIC! A ROBOT!!!! KAYA KA SIGURO PINAGKAKASUNDO SA AKIN NI LOLO KASI ALAM NYANG WALANG MAGMAMAHAL NG TOTOO SAYO DAHIL SA SOBRANG PANGIT NG UGALI MO!!!!!!!!!"

And with that, lumabas na ako ng kotse nya and dire-diretsong pumasok ng bahay. Pag di pa ako lumayo sa lalaking to, mamatay na ako sa inis!!!

"O, Gianna. Ang aga mo ata? I was expecting you would come home around midnight." salubong sa akin ni lolo Martin pag pasok ko sa living room. Oo nga pala. I called him that I would be late.

I snorted, "Kasalanan to ng apo nyong magaling, 'lo!"

"Sino? Si Nathan? Anong nangyari?" lolo stood up and lumapit sa akin.

"Sino pa ba, 'lo? Alam ko na bakit pinagkakasundo nyo sa akin yung lalaking yon." I crossed my arms. "Eh kasi naman 'lo, alam nyong walang magmamahal na babae don dahil soooooobrang sama ng ugali!"

"Pwede ba ugly stick! Tigilan mo na panglalait sa akin! Hindi naman totoo!!" biglang pasok ni handsome idiot! Langya, pumasok pa sya! Ba't di nalang sya umuwi sa condo nya!!

"Stop yelling, Nathan." lolo told handsome idiot. "Magkaharap lang kayo ni Gianna kaya di na kailangan sumigaw."

"'lo, alam mo ba, hinila-hila nya ako para sumama sa kanya. Naiwan tuloy mga kaibigan ko!" I pouted.

"Nathan? Is that true?" lolo Martin frowned.

Naglakad ako papunta sa couch and na-upo ng pagalit. Akala mo ha, handsome idiot. Lagot ka kay lolo!

"Yeah. So?" answered handsome idiot. Aba't hindi man lang nathreaten?! "Ganoon ba kaimportante na magpaka-late sya ng uwi para lang makasama mga kaibigan nya?"

"OO! GANOON KAIMPORTANTE! MAS PIPILIIN KO PANG MAKASAMA SILA KAYSA SA MAKITA KA!" I got so pissed off that I wasn't able to stop myself from yelling at him. Sino bang hindi mapipikon sa sama ng ugali nito?!?!? "SANA HINDI NALANG KITA PINANSIN NUNG NAKITA KITA! KAYA SIGURO WALA KANG MATINONG BABAE SA BUHAY MO KASI TORPE KA! TORPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

"Gianna! Relax!" lolo chuckled. At natawa pa si lolo?!

"Oi! Hindi ako torpe!!!!!" handsome idiot yelled then turned to lolo. "Alis na ako tanda! Nakakainis lang itong si ugly stick!"

"Wag ka ng babalik!" I yelled.

"Bakit, ikaw lang ba may-ari ng bahay na to?!" he yelled back.

"Heh! Efyu! Nakakainis ka! Imbis na mag-enjoy ako, andito ako! Nagmumukmok!" I cried then walked away.

"Oi ugly stick!" handsome idiot called bago ako makaakyat sa 2nd floor. "Tomorrow. 5 PM. At Starbucks. Don't be late. Or else.."

I glared at his back habang tumatawa naman si lolo. Ano yun, inaaya ako lumabas? Wait. Hindi naman nya tinanong kung payag ako. Meaning, di nya ako inaaya! Grrrr.

"Hayaan mo na yung batang yon. Mahiyain talaga." lolo chuckled. Tss. "Punta ka bukas ha? Don't be late."

I pouted at the thought of dating handsome idiot.

***

*Nathan's POV*

Lagot sa akin yung ugly stick na yon. Sinabi ko ng ayaw ko ng late, pero eto, wala pa sya! Anong oras na! Pasalamat nga sya at naisipan kong i-date sya. Ang swerte nya at ako pa ang nag-aya sa kanya. Wala naman talaga akong balak na ilabas yung babaeng yun kahit kailan eh. Malay pa ba ni tanda kung nagdate kami talaga?! Kaya lang nakakainis talaga yung sinabi nya sa akin nung pinuntahan namin si tanda! Biruin mo, ako, si Nathan Marty Miguel, lalait-laitin lang ni ugly stick!? Tawagin pa akong torpe!?

"Hi, pretty girl," tawag ko sa babaeng nakaupo sa katapat kong table. Kanina pa nagpapapansin sa akin to eh. Papansinin ko muna dahil wala pa si ugly stick. Andito ako sa may starbucks. Hinihintay si ugly stick. Pero teka, sabihin mo ngayon sa akin. Torpe pa ba ako sa lagay na to?!?

"Hi," she greeted me pagkalipat nya sa may tapat na upuan ko. "Can I hang out with you?"

I shrugged. "Sure. If you can give me a kiss."

"I'd be glad to." she winked.

I snorted but smiled. Just as I thought. Lahat ng babae, easy-to-get. Makakita lang ng gwapo at mukhang mayaman, bibigay na.

I kissed the girl in a most torrid way. Mukha namang enjoy na enjoy. Huh. What a slut. I hate this kind of girl the most.

Napahiwalay ako sa babae. Bigla akong binatukan ng kung sinong nilalang eh. I looked up and saw ugly stick. I smirked. "O ugly stick! Ang tagal mo? Nainip ako ah."

But instead of talking to me, she faced the girl who I was kissing earlier. "Stay away from my fiance, you slutty b1tch."

"Who the fck are you ba? Ha?" asked ms. Slutty b1tch.

"Di ka ba nakakaintindi, ha, slutty b1tch?" ugly stick retorted. Oh, this will be fun! "I said stay away from my fiance!"

"Oops!" I stood up and held ms. Slutty b1tch's hands. May balak pa atang sampalin ni ms. Slutty b1tch si ugly stick ko!

"H-hey! Let go!" slutty b1tch struggled.

I smiled and said, "You're such a lousy kisser." then, binitawan ko na sya.

"Get lost, slutty b1tch." bumanat pa si ugly stick! Kaya ayon. Tinitigan muna sya ng masama ni slutty b1tch. Pero, napabilib talaga ako ni ugly stick eh. Harangin ba yung paa ni slutty b1tch? Ayan. Natisod tuloy. Inirapan nya pa nung tinitigan sya uli! Haha. Idol ko na nyan si ugly stick pag nagkataon!

"Now, we're even." ugly stick smiled. Yung mapang-inis na smile.

That wiped the grin on my face. Ah. Ganon pala yon? She just wants to get even? Oh, this means war. >:) I'm gonna sweep you off your feet, you ugly stick. I'll have my revenge. Wahaha.

Chapter 4: The Very Least Girl Who Will Fall In Love With The Casanova.

*Nathan's POV*

"Two tickets. Final Destination 5." I told the cinema ticket booth cashier.

"240 pesos po." sagot naman ng cashier.

I handed her the money then took the tickets. Tapos hinila ko na si ugly stick papunta sa cinema 5. Manunuod kaming final destination 5. I can't wait to see the expression of ugly stick habang nanunuod kami. For sure, matatakot to! Bwahahaha! Tapos, yayakapin nya ako! Oooh! I can't wait to see what she will do! Makakaganti na ako neto!

Umupo kami sa may malapit sa screen. Yung kapag may nakakatakot na lilitaw, unang-una si ugly stick sa pagrereact.

Nung nagkaroon na ng premonition si Nicholas d'Agosto sa mangyayari sa kanila, tumayo ako. "Bibili lang akong pagkain." I told ugly stick.

She shrugged. Tapos iniwan ko na. Pumunta ako sa ibang lugar kung saan di nya ako makikita pero makikita ko sya. Papanuorin ko muna kung paano matakot si ugly stick bago ako bumili ng pagkain. Wahahaha!

Nasa may part na kung san nakakadiri na ng konti yung nangyayri sa mga cast pero di yun pinapanuod ko. Si ugly stick pinapanuod ko! Hehe. Kaya lang, ba't ganon? Badtrip, di man ata sya natakot dun sa nakakadiring part! Di man nga ata nagreact eh! Ah, hindi. Hindi. Ano lang yun. Tinatago lang nya yung takot nya. Wala kasi sya mayayakap eh. Hehe.

Lumabas na muna ako ng cine para bumili ng pagkain namin. Tapos, pag medyo nakakatakot na yung nakapalabas, lalabas na lang ako uli para matakot sya lalo. Niahahaha.

Bumili ako ng popcorn and iced tea. Yung malaki nalang binili ko. Pero di ko naman ise-share kay ugly stick. Ano akala nyo. Bibigyan ko sya? Asa!

Nandun na sa may part na na-"cheat" na daw nung mga bida yung death nung nakabalik ako sa upuan namin ni ugly stick. Ok. Pinapanuod ko si ugly stick pero WALA PARIN SYANG REACTION SA MGA NAKAKATAKOT AT NAKAKADIRI NA PARTS! Argggh!!! Nauna pa akong nagulat sa kanya nung namatay yung girl na malabo yung mata! Nakaakinis tong ugly stick na to!

"Punta lang ako CR!" I groaned. Naiinis na ako at nadidiri! Dapat pala di nalang namin pinanuod tong final destination 5!

Paglabas ko ulit ng cine, may sumalubong sa akin. Yung babae kanina. si ms. slutty b1tch. Stalker ko ata to eh. "Hi again handsome. Have you ditched the girl? I'll forgive you for telling me that I'm a lousy kisser. Alam ko naman sinabi mo yun kasi kasama mo yung b1tch na yun."

I snorted. "I don't have any interest on you. Leave me alone because I'm in a very bad mood right now!"

She caressed my face. D@mn. Ang kulit din nito eh! "I'll cheer you up. Come on."

"Fck! Leave me alone b1tch!" I yelled. Hindi ba to makaintindi?!

The girl looks taken aback pero wala akong pakielam. I walked away irritatedly. Naiinis talaga ako. Before kami manuod ni ugly stick ng cine, kumain na kami sa isang mamahaling restaurant. Pero pinapanuod lang ako non ni ugly stick. Tinitignan nya lang ako. Yung tingin na nakakainsulto. Kaya ayun, nagpakagentleman ako sa kanya coz I'm really planning to sweep her off her feet pero wala! Nakakainis! Dun

pumasok yung idea na manuod kamo ng nakakatakot. Gusto kong mawala yung tingin nya sa akin na nakakainsulto ata and maging dependent sya sa akin dahil sa takot.

"Nathaniel Marty Miguel!" someone yelled behind me. I bet si ugly stick yon. I ignored her and tuloy tuloy ako sa paglalakad.

Ugly stick huh? Di naman talaga sya payat eh. Nung kasing elementary kami, ang daming may crush sa kanya. Nakakainis yun! Ba't ba ang daming nagkakagusto sa kanya non? Ang payat payat nya kaya non! Pero crush pa rin sya ng mga kaklase namin kaya simula non, lagi ko na sya iniinis ng ugly stick and pinapaiyak. Tapos pag may lumalapit sa kanya na, inaaway ko. Ako lang nakakalapit sa kanya non!

I sighed. Kaya siguro galit na galit sa akin si ugly stick. Hindi naman talaga masama ugali ko o ano pero...

Ayokong may ibang lumalapit sa kanya maliban sa akin. Ay, meron nga palang isa pang lumalapit sa kanya. Pero balita ko, nung nag-graduate kaming elementary, nag-migrate yung pamilya nun sa ibang bansa. So nawalan sila ng communication ni ugly stick. See? Mismong tadhana na ang tumulong sa akin. Not that I care about that guy.

Matagal ko na rin pala syang di tinatawag sa name nya. Ewan ko. Naooverwhelm ako pag naiisip kong tawagin syang Gianna kaya di ko ginagawa.

Nakakainis talaga sya!!!

"Oi handsome idiot!" tawag ulit ni ugly stick sa akin. Binatukan pa ako nung nahabol ako!

"Ano ba! Lagi mo akong binabatukan ah!" I yelled out of irritation. Totoo naman kasi eh!

"Kung di ka ba naman kasi engot, iiwan mo pala ako kung di pa ako sumunod sayo!" she yelled back. Napapatitig ako sa kanya. Mas gusto ko tong ugly stick na to kaysa dun sa ugly stick kanina na tahimik. "Halika na nga! Walang kwenta ka mag-date!" she added. Aba't mang-iinsulto pa! At wala akong kwentang mag-date?! "Ako nalang magde-date sayo. Mga pointers sa totoong date. Kasi ang boring mo."

Boring?!

"Oi ugly st--"

"First. WAG KANG PLASTIC. MAGPAKATOTOO KA PAG NAKIPAG-DATE KA!" she cut me off. But instead na sigawan ko sya, napatitig lang ako sa kanya. Magpakatotoo?

"What do you mean?" I asked. Parang pinatatamaan kasi ako eh.

"What I mean is," she flipped her hair. May paflip-flip pa ng hair tong babaeng to. "Be yourself. Duhh. At dahil your way of dating sucks, you'll follow my way of dating. So, tara na."

"Saan?"

"Sa Sweet Smile Cafe. Gusto kong ice cream eh." she answered. **A/N: nag endorse lang. XD**

Sweet Smile Cafe? Saan naman yun?

Hinayaan ko na lang syang hilahin ako. Pero di ko expect na lalabas kami ng mall. Pero yun nga nangyari.

"Saan sasakyan mo? Hinatid lang ako ni lolo kaya wala akong dala." she asked.

This time, I held her hand and ako naman ang nanghila sa kanya.

***

"Alam mo handsome idiot, hindi dahil gwapo ka eh madali lang makipag-date." ugly stick said. Tapos, sumubo sya ng isang spoonful ng ice cream nya. "Dapat, you know how to have some fun. Wag kang boring. Yan ang second lesson mo. Ubusin mo na yang chocolate mousse mo tapos magjo-joy ride tayo."

I nodded then binilisan ko pagkain sa chocolate mousse ko. Masarap yung chocolate mousse dito ah. Sino kaya yung chef dito? Pwede kaya paturo pano gawin to? Hehe. Papatanong ko nga kay ugly stick. Ka-close nya yung mga employees dito eh. Madalas daw sila nung barkada nya dito.

"Pwede ba handsome idiot. Kumain ka nga ng maayos." sabi bigla ni ugly stick tapos lumapit sa akin at pinunasan yung dulo ng nose ko. Nadulilng pa ako sa kakapanuod ng kamay nya. "Halika nga dito. Ba't may napuntang mousse sa ilong mo? Pati ba naman ilong mo, kumakain? Hahaha,"

Binaba ko tingin ko. "Wag ka nga,"

"Loko handome idiot. Ngayon ka pa ata nahiya! HAHAHA!" she teased.

Tumayo ako bigla. "Oi hindi ako nahihiya no!"

"OO na. Cool ka lang. Umupo ka nga." she laughed.

Naupo ako. Then I turned to her and watched her. Si ugly stick naman tuloy tuloy sa pagsasalita.

"Dapat pag nakikipag date ka, confident ka. Pero di ko sinasabi na magpahangin ka lagi. Yung average lang. Teka, tapos ka na ba kumain?"

I nodded.

"O tara na! lakad tayo saglit tapos joyride tayo. Punta tayo saglit sa park sa tabi nung school dun." sabi nya sa akin tapos hinila ako. Napapadalas ang paghila sa akin ni ugly stick ah.

"O Mizuki, alis na kami. Psabi kay Ethan, wala syang kupas. Sarap parin ng desserts na gawa nya." paalam nya dun sa isang waitress tapos lumabas na kami.

**

"Alam mo handsome idiot, nakakainis ka," sabi bigla ni ugly stick. Nasa may park kami. Yung tinutukoy nya kanina.

I scowled. "Ako?? Nakakainis? Adik ka? Naka-high ka? Naka-drugs ka? Kanina pa ako nananahimk."

"Yun na nga eh." she pouted. "Usually inaaway mo ako."

Oo nga no. Di ko sya inaway this day. Nainis ako, oo. Pero di ko sya inaway.

"But I'm happy kasi hindi ka nakikipag-flirt sa iba habang kasama mo ako." she laughed. "Like kanina. Inaway-away mo pa si ms. slutty b1tch. Idol ko yun! Haha. Biruin mo. Ikaw? The prince casanova? Hindi pinansin yung isang babaeng nakikipagflirt sa kanya? End of the world na ba? HAHAHA!"

"Ano bang masama kung di ko sila papansinin. I told you. I'm getting tired of being a casanova. That's why I agreed to marry you." I told her.

She stared at me, "Hindi dahil sa mamanahin mo kay lolo?"

I rolled my eyes. "As if naman hindi ibibigay sa akin yun ni tanda,"

She was quiet for a while. Then, nung nagsalita sya, medyo serious na. "I really hate you handsome idiot."

Bakit nanaman?!?

"Sinira mo yung elementary life ko. Kung hindi pa ako nagmakaawa kay lolo, baka pati high school life ko, sinira mo. Why do you despise me so much?"

Despise? Why do I despise her so much? Yes, I despise her. Bakit ba sya lang ang unaffected sa akin? Ba't ba hindi nya ako hinahabol? Tell me, bakit sya yung parang pinakahuling babaeng hahabulin ako and mahuhulog sa akin?

D@mn. I think I just sounded like a gay!

Why do you despise me so much?

You won't understand it. You can't understand it.

I stood up. Then ran. Iniwan ko sya. She can never understand why I teased her. Why I hate when all those stupid guys confess to her. Because, even I do not understand.

All I know is, she's the very least girl who will fall inlove with a stupid casanova like me.

Chapter 5: The S-T-U-P-I-D-J-E-R-K Is Ruining My Life!

**Gianna's POV**

O?! Napano yun!?!?! Tama bang iwan ako habang nagde-date kami?!? Upakan ko ata yung handsome idiot na yun eh!!

I took my phone out of my bag then dialled Ashley. After a few rings, sinagot nya na. "Ashley the goddess speaking."

"Ashley the goddess? At kelan ka pa naging goddess ha bakla?" sabi ko sa kanya.

"Simula noong magpapakasal ka na sa god of the underworld also known as papa Nathan." banat naman ni Ashley. Pinagnanasahan ata nito si handsome idiot eh!? XD

"Haha. Alam mo ba bakla, mabait sya ngayon sa akin. Di ko na kinailangan ipakita yung picture nyang super nakakahiya! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!" tama. May picture akong dala-dala na super nakakahiya!! As in nakakahiya! Ms. Author please paki-post!! Sige na puh-leeeeeeeeeeease!! **A/N: Napost na. Nasa side. Ikwento mo kaya kung pano sya nagkaganyang picture?** Yes!! Thank you miss author! The best ka!!

Grabe! Nakakahiya talaga yang picture nya! HAHAHAHA! Ang sakit ng tiyan ko kakatawa! WAHAHA! Pano ba naman kasi, nung highschool da si handsome idiot, nagpakalasing sya. Alam mo na. Peer pressure. Kaya ayun! Nagwala! Nakakita daw ng underwear ng babae tapos sinuot sa ulo yung panty! Pati yung brassiere, pinagtripan din! Tapos, HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!! SUMAYAW-SAYAW PA!!!! Grabe! Mamamatay ata ako kakatawa! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!

"OI GIANNA NAPANO KA?! NABABALIW KA NA BA!? KANINA KA PA TAWA NG TAWA DYAN!!" biglang may sumigaw sa may tenga ko. Ay! Kausap ko pa pala si Ashley! Ano ba yan! Dahil sa picture ni handsome idiot, nawala ako sa sarili ko. Eh sa nakakatawa naman kasi di ba? Di ba? Sinong di natawa dyan?! Type nya si handsome idiot kung ganon!

"Ah. Ano nga kasi. HAHAHAHAHA!" tawa ko ulit. Di ko mapigilan!

"OI BAKLA NAPANO KA?!!"

"Hindi. Kasi ano-- HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!"

"PWEDE BA BAKALA! HUMINAHON KA AT HABULIN MO SI PAPA NATHAN KASI BAKA MAPANO YUN!!!"

"HAHAHAHAHA -- Ha! Mapapano ba yun? Malaki na yun! Ano ka ba! Hahahahaha." sabi ko naman. At kelan pa naging concerned si Ashley kay handsome idiot? xD

"TANGA MUCH BAKLA?!" sigaw naman ni Ashley sa kabilang linya. Ay. Kanina pa pala sya sumisigaw kasi tawa ako ng tawa. Hahaha. "PAG UMATRAS SI PAPA NATHAN SA USAPAN NYO, MAWAWALAN KA NG CHANCE SA MANA MO!!! HINDI KA NA MAKAKALAYO SA KANYA!"

I giggled. "Talagang gusto mo akong lumayo sa kanya? Haha."

"Anebe bakla. Syempre aakitin ko si papa Nathan non." sagot ni Ashley. Nag-iba pa tono ng boses. Lumande!! Hahaha!

"Sira! Di papatol sayo yun!" I laughed again. Wala na akong ginawa kundi tumawa ah? Hahaha.

"Malay mo? Haha. Osya bakla. Habulin mo na si papa Nathan. Kundi, ako ang hahabol sa kanya. At take note, bakla. Magsisisi ka pag nangyari yun! HAHAHAHA!" sabi ni Ashley tapos tumayo na ako. Nawala kasi kalandian ng boses nya. Napalitan ng nakakatakot.

"Oo na. Hahaha. Osige bakla. Bye na." paalam ko.

"Babush bakla." paalam din ni Ashley sa kabilang linya tapos in-end ko na yung call.

Susundan ko na si handsome idiot. Baka gahasahin ni Ashley. Kawawa naman si handsome idiot! Oh well. Masyado kasi gwapo eh. Bawasan ko kaya kagwapuhan? Hmm. Pano naman? Any suggestions? Suggest naman kayo dyan. Ala ako maisip eh.

Anyway. San ba pumunta yung handsome idiot na yun? Baka lumande nanaman! Kakasabi ko palang na salamat kasi di sya lumalandi sa harap ko eh! Hay nako! Nasan na ba yung hampaslupang pangit na handsome idiot na yun?!

Ow, ayun pala eh! May kausap na babae. Hmm. Nag-aaway ata eh. Parang nagsisigawan. Haha. Matawag na nga lang.

"Nathan!!!! Handsome idiot!!!"

Huh? Narinig ba ako? Biglang tumakbo eh! Natakot sa akin?! Ganyanan?! Ano ako, aswang?!?! Sa ganda kong to?!?!?!

Lumapit ako dun sa girl na kausap nya kanina. "Uy. San pumunta yung kausap mo kanina? Yung gwapo pero may pagka-sira."

"Yung pong Nathan the handsome idiot? Yung may pagka-engot din po?" tanong naman nung girl. Ayieh! Magkakasundo kami neto! Hahaha.

"Oo! Yun!" I squealed. Parang bata lang eh no?

The girl smiled. "Ahh. Lumiko po kayo dun sa may kanto."

Magkakasundo talaga kami! HAHA. "Thanks! Alam mo, magkakasundo tayo!" I smiled at her then ran after handsome idiot.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ----

I yawned. Walangya yung handsome idiot na yun. Tama bang iwan ako?!?!? Tss. Lagot kay lolo Martin yun! Ang tagal ko syang hinintay sa may parking lot ng Sweet Smile Cafe tapos iiwan lang nya ako!? Nilamok ako dun ha! I hate the stupid jerk!

**Flashback**

Wokeeey. Tama bang paghintayin ako ni handsome idiot sa labas ng kotse nya?!?! Mukha na akong tanga ah!!

"O Gianna. Ba't andito ka pa?" asked Ethan paglapit nya. This guy is SOOOO nice. Ang alam ko, halfjapanese sya. Senior dun sa may school malapit dito. Ewan ano pangalan. Japanese eh. Blah-blah gakuen ata. Basta yun na yun!

"Hinihintay ko yung hampaslupa kong kasama eh." I answered.

"Kanina ka pa dyan eh. Kanina pa kita nakikita." he told me. Ganon na ba ako katagal naka-upo dito? Hay.

I sighed. "O kumusta na Ethan?"

He shrugged. "Yun parin. Ikaw?"

"Eto. Magpapakasal na. Hehe." I told him. Close naman kami eh. Tagal na namin magkaibigan. Eversince nagwork sya first as a waiter.

"Huh!?!?! Ano!? Di ba di ka pa naman graduate?!" Ethan blurted out.

I laughed. Nakakatawa expression nya eh! OA masyado. Napano to? Haha. "OA much, Ethan? What got into you? Haha. Uhm. Yep. My complications kasi kaya ganon."

"Ano?! Don't tell me..."

"Oi hindi ah!!! Adik to!" I kicked his knee. Loko tong batang to. Kung anu-ano iniisip.

We just stared to each other then burst on laughing. "Grabe ka naman kasi Ethan eh! Hahahahahaha!"

"Sabi mo kaya complications! HAHAHAHA!" tawa naman ni Ethan. To talagang batang to. Haha.

May sasabihin pa sana ako kaya lang lumapit na si Nathan. Hallelujah.

"Move." he said with a cold voice. Napano tong lokong to?!?!

"San ka ba galing?! Kanina pa ako nilalamok dito!" I scowled.

"Mukha kang nanay, Gi." Ethan laughed. Walangya tong lalaking to. Pinapatawa ako. xD

"Who cares. Just shut up and move away from the car." Nathan growled. Napaatras ako. Galit ata eh. Wala sa mood.

"O tol. Wala namang ganyanan. Iiwan mo si Gianna?" Ethan interrupted.

I sighed. "It's fine, Ethan."

He shook his head. "Of course not! At kelan pa tamang mang-iwan ng babae?"

Sasagot sana ako kaya lang sumabat si handsome idiot. Naman!

"Simula nung nang-iwan sila!" he yelled then pumasok na sa sasakyan nya. Nilock pa! talagang wala akong balak isama. Sarap sapakin!

"We just stood here like an idiot. Tara na Gi. Hahatid kita." sabi bigla ni Ethan.

I shook my head. "Wag na."

He suddenly pulled me. "tara na sabi."

I sighed.

**End of flashback**

Hay grabe. Buti mala-anghel sa bait si Ethan. Sana lahat ng lalaki, kasing bait nya! Grabe lungs!

"Oy bakla--ay!"

"AY! Ano ba yun!?!" I said loudly. Napatayo kasi ako bigla nung tinawag ako ni Ashley. Baklang to, oo! Nabasa pa ang uniform ko ng kung ano! "Naman kasi eh Ashley. Ano bang meron? Ba't nanggugulat ka?"

"Nakatulala ka kaya!" Ashley said. Inirapan pa ako.

"May iniisip lang," I told him.

"Ano naman?" asked Aaron.

"Baka si Nathan," salo naman ni Denice.

Pinagtutulungan nanaman ako. Hay nako. "Hindi. Wala to. Tsk. Patulong naman sa CR, Denice,"

"Okay," she shrugged then tumayo.

Nasa may cafeteria kasi kami. Last day ng semester namin eh.

"yih. Matanggal pa kaya to? Tingin mo Denice?" I asked habang naglalakad kami.

"Ewan." she answered, "Patingin nga -- Ay!"

"O! Ano, ay!" Napatigil ako. Nasa harap ko si lolo eh. Biglang nag-appear. "O 'lo! Ano ginagawa mo dito?"

He grinned. "You're going to transfer. Sa school ka na kung san nag-aaral si Nathan."

My mouth went wide open.

goddamn that stupid jerk. He's starting to ruin my life again.

Chapter 6: "The King Casanova and The Lonely Prince" What's With Those Titles?!

"Oh no. Oh no, no, no. You can't do that, 'lo. You can't transfer me." I stomped my foot. Tama. Di ako pwedeng itransfer ng school ni lolo. I'm 2nd year college and I already finished the 1st sem, for Pete's sake!

"So?" lolo Martin took his chair. Sumugod ako sa office nya pagkaalis nya ng school namin. And, yes. I ditched school. Half-day lang ang pasok ko. Buti binigyan ako ng prof. ko ng letter para makalabas.

Lolo Martin continued. "I can and I will. Don't be stubborn and just let it go."

I snorted. "You're the stubborn one, 'lo! Can't you understand it, 'lo? Ayaw ko maging school mate si Nathan! I don't want to spend the rest of my college in with that devil in some hell school! I freaking won't!"

Lolo shook his head. How can he be so stubborn?! "This discussion is over. You will transfer and by next month, sa school ka na kung saan nag-aaral si Nathan papasok."

"This is so unfair!" I cried then turned and left.

Ba't ba ganun si lolo?! Pumayag na nga akong pakasal kay Nathan tapos ililipat nya pa akong school!? Nakakainis!

Drop everything now. Meet me in the pouring rain. Kiss me on the side walk, take away the pain.

I took my phone out. Si Aaron yung tumatawag. "O Aaron. Bakit?"

"Napakiusapan mo lolo mo?" he asked.

"I... I... *sob* didn't!!" I said then naiyak na ako.

"O Gi! Wag kang iiyak! Baka akalain ng nakakakita sayo, nababaliw ka na,"

"Sira! Umiiyak na yung tao, ginaganyan mo pa." I sobbed again. Tumawa lang si Aaron sa kabilang linya.

"O sya na. Treat kitang ice cream. San ka? Puntahan kita." he asked.

Sumakay ako ng elevator then pinunas yung luha ko. "Sige. Wait kita sa labas ng building ni lolo."

"Andito na ako," he chuckled.

I rolled my eyes. "Kanina ka pa dyan no?"

"Yup. Kaya dalian mo na at kakain tayong ice cream!" Aaron laughed. I smiled at myself. Buti nalang may kaibigan akong handang damayan ako sa mga oras na nangangailan ako ng dadamay sa akin.

**

"O ano? Gusto mo magtransfer din kami?" Aaron asked habang pinapanuod ako sa pagkain ko ng ice cream.

I shook my head. "Adik ka ba? Wag na. Second semester na nyan. Lilipat pa ba kayo dahil lang sa akin."

He chuckled. "Ayos lang yun. Love ka namin eh."

I smiled then continued eating my ice cream. Andito nanaman ako sa Sweet Smile Cafe. Tambayan namin to diba?

Ang hirap parin isipan na magtransfer ako ng ibang school. Makukulit ko pa kaya si lolo Martin na wag akong i-transfer? Hindi na siguro. Pero, it's worth a try naman di ba? Malay natin, mapapayag ko sya.

I sighed. Even ice cream couldn't cheer me up. " Aaron, pwedeng hatid mo na ako sa bahay? Gusto kong magpahinga,"

Aaron stared at me for a while then nodded. Tumayo na kami and lumabas ng cafe. Wala talaga ako sa mood kaya gusto ko ng umuwi.

"Tara, hatid na kita." Aaron offered.

I shook my head. "Wag na. Kaya ko na to."

"Gi naman eh."

"Wag na. Ako nalang mag-isa." I insisted tapos nagpara na ako ng jeep and sumakay.

Ewan pano ako nakarating ng bahay. Basta nagbayad ako sa driver, nagpara tapos bumaba sa tapat ng subdivision namin. Absent minded din ako habang naglalakad. Basta gusto ko ng pumasok sa kwarto ko at magmukmok.

**

Mabilis din araw pag vacation. Nainip ako pero mabilis. Eto nga at patapos na ang semestral break ko. Bukas, papapasok na ako.

...

Sa school kung saan pumapasok si handsome idiot. Buong semestral break, wala akong ginawa kundi magmukmok or umalis ng bahay para makasama sina Ashley, Aaron and Denice. Di ko rin masyado kinikibo si lolo. BV pa ako sa kanya eh. Lalo naman kay handsome idiot. Hindi ko sya pinapansin. As in. Kaya ayun. Di rin ako pinapansin.

Drop everything now. Meet me in the pouring rain. Kiss me on the side walk, take away the pain.

Inabot ko sa kama ko yung phon ko para masagot kung sino man yung tumatawag. "Hello?"

"O Gi, ayos na ba gamit mo? Ready ka na para bukas? Gusto mo hatid kita?" salubong agad ni Aaron sa akin galing sa kabilang linya.

I laughed. "Loko Aaron. Gusto mo ata akong lumipat talaga ah."

"Hindi naman. Haha." he continued, "Concerned lang. Baka naglaslas ka na dyan."

I giggled. "Eto nga o. Maglalaslas palang. Hehe."

"Tulungan kita." he said.

"O sige. Paki-ready yung kabaong ko." I told him then laughed again.

Nakisabay naman sya. "Ready na. Haha. O ano? Hahatid kita?"

"Boyscout ka talaga. Haha. Wag na no. May pasok kayo. Kaya ko naman pumunta sa school ko. May paa naman ako. Pag naligaw ako, may bibig na nagsasalita para magtanong." I told him.

"Ikaw talaga. Haha." he chuckled. "Osya na Gi, una na ako. Tinanong ko lang kung gusto mo magpahatid pero dahil ayaw mo at stubborn ka, di na kita kukulitin. Goodluck bukas ha? Wag kang papatalon dun sa lokong Nathan na yon."

"Opo boss! Hahaha. O sige. Salamat ha Aaron? Mamimiss ko kayo," I told him sincerely.

Natawa ulit si Aaron. Wala namang nakakatawa sa sinabi ko ah? Haha. "To naman. Parang mangingibang bansa. Don't worry. Mamimiss ka rin namin. Ingat ka ha, Gi?"

"Masusunod.Haha." I said then in-end na nya yung call. I smiled. At least ngayon makakatulog na akong medyo magaan yung pakiramdam.

Nahiga na ako sa kama and pinikit ko yung mata ko. Malamang. Alangan naman ipikit ko yung ilong ko? Patawa?

Ay nako.

Ay teka. Tama bang barahin ang sarili? Tss. Kahit kailan talaga, ang hilig kong mangbara. Pati sarili ko, binabara ko na.

Makatulog na nga!

**

Pasimple kong tinitignan yung map na binigay sa akin nung sa Registrar Office. Naliligaw na ata ako eh. Di ko makita yung Architectural building. Ayoko namang naka-stuck sa harap ng mukha tong map na to kaya pasimple kong pinagmamasdan. Kaya lang, naliligaw na nga ata ako eh. According sa map, katabi ng Tourism building yung Architectural building. Nasan na ba yon? Buti na lang maaga ako umalis ng bahay. Kundi, baka ma-late ako kakahanap ng walangyang building na to. Kanina pa ako naghahanap eh. Kahit 9:35 AM yung pasok ko, andito na ako before 7:30.

"Grabe lang ha? Kanina pa ako umiikot sa school na to," reklamo ko. Nakakainis na kasi eh.

"Need any help?" asked a voice behind me. I turned and saw a freakingly handsome guy. Kaya lang, medyo mukhang babae ata. Baka bkla? Ay. Di naman siguro. Anyway, gwapo nga talaga tong lalaking to.

Syempre lalaki. Alangan naman gwapong babae. Common sense lang, Gianna.

I smiled. Buti may nagmagandang loob sa akin na tumulong. "Ano, I can't find my way to the Architecture building."

"Aah." the guy nodded. "Transferee ka no? Tara, sabay ka na sa akin. Sa may tabi ng Tourism building yun. Dun punta ko."

"San? Sa Architecture building? Ba't di tayo same ng uniform?" I asked. "Ay. Natural. Lalaki ka eh. Alangan naman pareho tayo ng uniform eh lalaki ka nga. Babae ako."

He chuckled. "Sa Tourism building punta ko. Tourism course ko pero hahatid na kita."

"Ahh." I nodded then smiled at him. Mabait naman ata students ng school na to eh. Kita mo nga o. May tumulong agad sa akin. "Thanks ha?"

The guy smiled back. Bagay nga sa kanya yung course nya. Gwapo na, mabait pa. "You're very much welcome. I'm Samuel, by the way. Ikaw?"

"Gianna. Call me Gianna." I told him.

"So, Gianna. Kung ako sayo, itabi mo na yang map na yan at baka madapa ka pa." he said then laughed.

Tumawa na rin ako then tinago ko na yung map. Lord, thank you kasi may mabaot na tao ka agad na pinakilala sa akin. ^____^

Huh? ba't lahat ata ng nakakasalubong namin, pinakakatitigan ako? Tapos, grini-greet si Samuel. Sikat ata ang loko eh! Haha. Atleast mabait kahit sikat.

Huminto kami sa harap ng building na ang cuuuuuuute ng design.

"Ayan yung Architecture building. Yun naman yung Tourism building." sabi ni Samuel tapos tinuro yung katabing building. "O sige. Una na ako. May pasok pa ako eh. See you later."

"Sure! Thanks again, Samuel!" I smiled and watched him walk away.

Papasok na ako nung building nang may nanghila sa kamay ko. Si Nathan. "O? Napano ka?"

"Ba't mo kasama yun?" he asked. Nakataas pa yung left eyebrow.

"Pake mo ba?" taops binawi ko yung kamay ko and pumasok na ng building. Di naman sya sumunod. Baka trip lang mamikon. Buti di tinuloy. Wala ako sa mood makipag-inisan sa handsome idiot na yun.

Hinanap ko yung room ko para sa first subject ko. Konti palang kami pero pumasok na ako. Para di masyado agaw pansin. Hehe. Wala pa yung prof. kaya naupo muna ako sa may likod. Sakto namang may pumasok na girl.

"Hi!" she greeted me pagkalapit sa akin. "Transferee ka no?"

I smiled then nodded. "Yup!"

"Kakilala mo pala si Sam and Nathan?" she asked tapos umupo pa sa tabi ko. Weee. May makakaclose na ba ako? :D

"Sam? You mean si Samuel?" I asked. She nodded. "Ah. Oo. Tinulungan nya ako kaninang naliligaw ako. Hehe."

She nodded thoughtfully. "Eh si Nathan?"

Nathan? Sikat ata sa school na to yung mokong na yun. "Ahh. Ano..." As a matter of fact, mapapangasawa nya ako. Chos! Hinding hindi ko pagsasabi yun! Hehehehehe. "Kababata ko and parang pinsan ko na."

"Ah talaga, girl? Hahaha." she said cheerfully. "Nga pala girl. Aketch nga pala si Destiny. Call me Des kasi ang weird ng name ko. Ewan ko ba sa mother dear ko ba't ganyan namesung ko."

Natawa ako. Naalala ko kasi si Ashley sa kanya! Hahaha. "Haha. Sure, Des. I'm Gianna, by the way. Ang cute nga ng name mo eh. Haha,"

"Ayyyih. Talaga? Hihi." Umakto pang kinikilig. "At dahil sabi mo cute ang name ko, close na tayo! Hahaha."

"Talaga? Thanks!" I sadi tapos hinawakan ko pa kamay. Weee! May ka-close na ako agad. O diba? Ang saya lang. :)

"Yup. Haha." she nodded. Tinaas-baba pa yung kilay. Magkakasundo kami neto! Swear.

"Nga pala. Bat kilala mo si Samuel and Nathan?" I asked nung maalala ko. Ang alam ko kasi, Business Management si Nathan tapos di ba nga, Tourism si Samuel.

"Di mo alam? Sikat sila." she told me.

I stared at her. "Ba't naman sila sikat? Uso pa ba yun sa college?"

"Ano ka ba! Hahaha!" Des laughed. "Oo naman nu! Haha. Pano kaya, yung naghatid sayo, si Sam, sya si 'King Casanova.' Sikat yun lalo na sa mga babae. Gwapo eh. Nakita mo naman di ba? Haha. Tapos, si Nathan, sya si 'Lonely Prince.' Akala ko naman alam mong sikat si Nathan kasi parang close kayo."

I shook my head. "Di ah. Lagi nga kami nag-aaway nun eh."

"Ah ganun ba?" she giggled. "Swerte mo nga daw eh. Mukhang makakaclose mo yung dalawang casanova ng school."

I rolled my eyes. "Enough with those casanova, Des. Tao rin lang naman yung dalawang yun. Lalo na si Nathan. Pinakamasamang tao sa mundo ata yun."

"Hahaha," Des laughed. "I agree with you. Pero, you can't deny the fact na gwapo silang dalawa. Haha."

"Maybe." I winked at her.

She giggled. "Swerte mo talaga, girl! First day mo sa school na to tapos dalawang heartthrob na agad ang lumapit sayo! Ganda mo kasi eh."

"Hey. I'm not that beautiful. Maybe, cute is acceptable." I laughed.

"Maybe." she shrugged then laughed. "Pero maganda ka parin."

I just smiled at her. Then, naalala ko yung tawag kay Samuel and Nathan. King Casanova? Lonely Prince? Seriously? Haha. What's with those names? Para namang may ginawa sila na tumatak sa history. Patawa ata tong school na to. Hahaha.

Chapter 7: The History of the Royalties.

"Hi Gianna! Hi Destiny!" Samuel greeted us paglabas namin ng Architectural building. Mukhang inaabangan kami ah.

"Hi Sam! Todo FC ka kay Gianna ah." Des teased. I giggled.

"To talaga. I'm just being friendly." Samuel smiled. "Gusto nyo sumabay sa akin mag-lunch?"

"Baka over friendly. Hahaha." Des added. "Lunch? Sure. It'll be such a great honor to have lunch with the King Casanova."

Ayan nanaman ang 'King Casanova' na yan. Seriously. It's hilarious. XD

We started walking towards the cafeteria. "Samuel, ba't King Casanova tawag sayo?"

"It's cool, right?" he winked. Natawa nalang kami ni Des. "Hey. What's so funny?"

"It sounds so stupid." I told him.

"Ang sama. Haha." he laughed.

Des giggled. "It's obvious, isn't it, Gianna? He is such a casanova. No one ever made him cry. He doesn't believe in love."

"Hey, it's not that I don't believe in love." Samuel smiled at us. "I'm just searching for it."

I shook my head but smiled. "You're not supposed to search for love, Samuel. You're supposed to fall in love."

Samuel took the nearest vacant table near the cafeteria door when we entered. Okay. This is weird but everyone's watching us. I know Samuel's freakingly handsome and all but that doesn't mean they should watch every move he makes.

I sat infront of Samuel and beside Des. "And besides, Samuel, if you're searching for love, how come you're a casanova?"

"Trip nya lang." Des said. Natawa ako. "Bakit?"

I continued on laughing. "Pano kaya, ang dami mong alam tungkol kay Samuel."

Samuel shrugged. "She's an old fling of mine."

"What!? Really?!" I cried. "Di halata!"

"Haha. You should see your face expression, Gi," Des laughed. Sam and I joined her. Then suddenly, Des stood up. "Bibili ako ng lunch. Ano gusto nyo? My treat."

Sam frowned. "Weh? It's been ages nung huli mo akong nilibre. Sige nga. I want some baked macaroni."

Des stuck her tongue out. Haha. How childish. XD Ay. Ganyan rin pala ako minsan. Hahaha.

Hmm. I'm craving for lasagna. Rawr. XD "May lasagna ba dyan?" Des nodded. "Lasagna na lang akin."

"Sige. I'll be back." she smiled then headed to the counter to order.

For a while, I was just watching the whole cafeteria. And yung mga nakatingin sa amin. Para lang silang stalker eh. Tapos para kaming pelikula na nagsho-shooting. Hay nako. Ibang klaseng school to.

I glanced at Samuel then got suprised when I saw him watching me. "W-what?"

"Wala lang. Hehehe." he winked.

I rolled my eyes but smiled. Hmm. King Casanova huh? And Lonely Prince? So, this is what they call the campus royalties. Uso pa pala talaga yung ganto sa college. I wonder ba't sa amin, wala?

"Gianna." Sam called. "Hmm?"

"Lalim ng iniisip mo. Di ko maabot." Sam teased. I just laughed. Patawa ata si Sam eh. Hindi fit sa kanya yung King Casanova. Kasi ang alam ko, ang mga casanova, walang sense of humor. Parang si handsome idiot! Wahahaha.

"Wala to. Gutom lang. Hehe." I told him.

"Thumb wrestling tayo!" sabi sa akin ni Sam.

"Sure!" I nodded.

Then, ayun nga, nag-thumb wrestling kami. Pero, letche, may nanghila ng kamay ko nung matatalo ko na si Sam! Sayang din yun ah!

"Ano ba!? Wala kang magawa sa buhay mo!?" nung nag-sink in sa akin na si handsome idiot yung nanghila ng kamay ko and nanghila sa akin patayo, napikon ako lalo. "Oi lalake! Pwede ba?! Nananahimik kami ni Samuel so wag mo kaming guluhin!"

"Oi din ugly stick. Ba't ba ang hilig hilig mong makipag-kaibigan? Ha?" he scowled.

Ha! HA! I can't believe this! So, pangit bang makipag-kaibigan?!

"Excuse me Nathan pero, ang alam ko kasi, AKO yung kasama ni Gianna." Samuel interrupted.

Nathan glared at Samuel. "Shut up and stay away from us."

Ah. So, bawal akong makipag-kaibigan? Kaya kung magkakaroon ako ng kaibigan, papalayuin nya uli sa akin? Parang nung elementary kami? Oh no, no, no. I freaking won't allow that! "Ano ba, Nathan?!" I pushed him away from me. "Will you just grow up?! Ano nanaman balak mo?! Yung palayuin lahat ng gustong maging kaibigan ako?! God, Nathan! Why don't you just go flirt with your girls?! Stop messing my life!"

After yelling at him, I took fast deep breaths. Parang nakipag-race ako kasi hingal na hingal ako. Then I realized, everyone is watching us. But still, I held my gaze to Nathan. In my peripheral vision, I saw Samuel stood up and come to me.

"Relax, Gianna. Umupo ka muna." he said while calming me.

I took my chair but continued on watching Nathan. Then after like forever, he left after giving Samuel an evil eye.

"Ok. What was that?" Des asked pagkalapit nya sa amin. "Di ako makalapit kasi baka maluto ako kasi masyado kayong hot."

"Kakilala mo si Nathaniel, Gianna?" Samuel asked. I nodded. Then smiled at Des as a thanks. "Pano?" Samuel added.

"It's a long story." I answered.

"Magkababata ata sila." sabi naman ni Des.

Samuel just nodded. I face my food and started eating it. Habang kumakain ako, napansin kong kumakain si Nathan mag-isa four table away from us. Pinaninindigan pa ata yung 'Lonely Prince' title nya. What a bunch of nonsense. But still..

"Lonely prince? Huh," I mumbled.

"Don't you know why he is called the Lonely Prince?" asked Des. I shook my head.

"Gusto mo malaman?" dagdag naman ni Samuel.

Gusto ko malaman? Hmm. Should I ask them? Maybe not. But.. "Sige."

Magsasalita na sana si Des but Samuel interrupted her. "Let me, Destiny." Des just shrugged. "So, Gianna, you do remember that I'm the 'King Casanova,' right?" I nodded. "actually, I wasn't really called the 'King Casanova.' I'm just the 'Prince Casanova.' Why? Because Nathaniel was the 'King Casanova' that time. Kasi, ang alam ko, since high school pa daw, casanova na si Nathaniel. Eh, dito rin sya naghighschool ata. Dun sa may highschool section ng school na to. So, Nathaniel's considered as a legend here. But, those days ended when a girl made Nathaniel cry. Eversince then, he became a loner. He doesn't even have any friends. He just flirts and make out with girls."

After hearing the loooong story, I was like "Huh?!"

"Believe it or.. believe it." said Des.

But, still. Di ako makapaniwala. May nagpa-iyak kay Nathan? Tapos, babae? Anong nangyayari sa mundo? Possible ba yun?!

"Teka, may idadagdag pa ako." sabi pa ni Des. I looked at her. "Tapos, si Sam naman, naging 'King Casanova' kasi wala talaga, as in wala talagang may kayang palungkutin sya ng bonggang bongga. Kumbaga na-promote ang loko. Hahaha."

"Oi, Destiny. Baka akalain naman ni Gianna, flirt talaga ko." Samuel rolled his eyes. I smiled.

Des giggled. "Totoo naman ah. Wahahaha. Pero at least, you treat those girls properly. Gentleman ka sa kanila."

"Woo. Tama na ang bola, Destiny." Sam laughed. Des joined him but I just watched Nathan's lonely back.

I can't believe that someone can make that idiot cry.

Chapter 8: What the fudge with this proposal?!

"Ugly stick!"

Taena. Ano nanaman ba kailangan ng lalaking yon?!?

"Ui Gianna, ikaw ba yung tinatawag ni Nathan?" asked Des. I rolled my eyes then pulled her. Pabalik na kami sa Architectural building eh.

"Oi, ugly stick! Stop right there!" handsome idiot called me but I ignored him again.

"Ba't ugly stick tawag sayo ni Nathaniel? Ang layo sayo." Sam told me.

I shrugged. "Nakawala sa mental yan eh."

Binilisan ko paglalakad para makalabas na kami ng campus. Thankfully, (and ewan din bakit. xD)sumunod na din sa amin si Samuel.

Paglabas namin ng campus, halos mapatalon ako sa saya. Nakaabang kasi sina Ashley, Denice and Aaron sa akin sa labas! Yiih! I'm so happey! Hahahaha. I know, I know. Isang araw palang ako sa school na to pero, miss ko na talaga sila eh! Mga precious friends ko kaya yan. Hahaha.

"Ho.May.Gass. Ang pogeeeee!" sabi bigla ni Denice nung kumaway sa amin sina Ashley.

"Kakilala mo yung kumakaway dito, Gianna?" tanong naman ni Samuel.

I nodded with a huge smile. "Mga BFFs ko. Haha."

Nung narinig ni Denice na mga BFFs ko yung kumakaway sa akin, bigla ba naman binitiwan yung kamay ko tapos sumugod papunta kina Aaron! Eto pa ang matindi, akala ko lalapitan nya si Aaron kasi nga di ba sabi nya "ang pogi"? Maleeeee! Si Ashley yung nilapitan nya! Si Ashley!! Tapos, bigla nyang sinunggaban! As in sunggab talaga! Yung ngang expression nila Aaron and Denice? Grabe, nanlaki yung mata tapos nakabukas yung bibig! Halatang na-shock din!

"Pakisarado naman ang bibig, Gianna. Baka may pumasok na langaw." said Samuel. Dun ko lang napansin na katulad lang ng expression nila Denice ang expression ko.

Pero walang makakatalo sa expression ni Ashley. Nagwala ang bakla! Parang nire-rape!

"Oh no! My dear body! Ang aking body na hinango pa sa body ng isang dyosa! Homaygaad! let go of my beautiful body!" screamed Ashley like a girl pagkalapit namin ni Samuel.

"Bakla, huh?" said Samuel.

Mukhang narinig siya ni Ashley kasi biglang tumingin sa kanya. "Ay hindi man! Girl aketch! Girl kaya aketch!" tapos pinagtulakan si Destiny (di ko alam kung kay Ashley ako maaawa o kay Destiny. xD)

"Weee! Oh em gee! ba't ampogi pogi mo? Date tayo ha? Boyfriend na kita!" Destiny gushed.

"Destiny naman," Samuel sighed. "Huminahon ka nga."

Pero hindi huminahon si Des. Lalo pa atang dinikitan si Ashley! Grabe. Ewan kung matatawa ako o ano. Ayaw kong tumawa kasi mukhang serious si Ashley na gustong kumawala kay Des. Kaya lang, kung makadikit si Des kay Ashley, daig pa ang mag-on! Hahahahaha!! Pinagtitinginan na pa naman sila ng mga tao! Lalo na yung mga lalaki! Tapos, ang sama ng tingin kay Ashley!

"Oo nga naman Des, ipapakilala ko pa kay--" at, naputol ang sasabihin ng may manghila sa aking halimaw. =___=

I turned and saw handsome idiot. "Taena naman, handsome idiot. Nakikipag-usap pa ako kina Samuel eh!"

"Heh! Manahimik ka at sumama ka na lang sa akin! Kanina pa kita tinatawag! Nagmukha akong tanga!" he yelled. "Pinapatawag tayo ni tanda!"

Tanda means lolo. walang galang tong hinayupak na to.

I tried to pull my hand out of his firm grip but, as usual, di ako makawala. Arggggh!! Ampupu tong lalaking to! "Naman, Nathan. Pwede mo naman siguro akong sabihan sila na tawag ako ni lolo no!?"

Binagalan nya yung paglalakad nya tapos binitiwan ako. Hallelujah! Nakinig sa akin!

"Dalian mo. Kung hindi.." he warned. I just rolled my eyes and tumakbo pabalik kina Ashley kung saan malapit na ata syang ma-rape ni Des. xD

***

"One month from now, birthday nyo na, so, sabay nating gagawin yung birthday nyo." lolo Martin informed us. Lagi namang sabay birthday party namin ni handsome idiot eh. What's new?

"At dahil debut ni Gianna non, I want it to be grand." he added. Taimtim lang kaming nakikinig ni handsome idiot. Ay. Baka ako lang ang taimtim na nakikinig dahil NAKA-HEADSET LANG NAMAN PO AT NAGPAPATUGTOG ANG HINAYUPAK NA HANDSOME IDIOT! "I'm going to invite all my business partners, you're whole school mates and of course, your friends."

I rolled my eyes. My friends. Yeah right. Iilan lang naman mga kaibigan ko. Sina Aaron, Denice, Ashley, Destiny and Samuel lang naman. Di man sakto para sa 18 roses. But anyway, bahala na si lolo sa 18 roses ko. Basta kasama si Aaron. Si Ashley naman, mas babae pa sa akin yun eh. As if naman na isasayaw ako. Si Sam, itatanung ko nalang bukas.

"Now, Gianna, kung may gusto kang idagdag sa magiging 18 roses mo, feel free to tell me now. Para mapagawa ko na yung mga invitations." lolo added.

I just nodded. Sino pa ba isasama ko sa 18 roses? Si Aaron. Hmm. Si Nathan, sigurado naman na sya magiging escort ko.

"A week after your birthday, your wedding will be in place." lolo Martin said.

"What?!?!" I yelled. Ambilis naman?!?!

"There's no need to shout, Gianna," sabi ni lolo Martin. "Pumayag na rin naman si Nathan eh."

"Pumayag?! Anong pumayag!?" I said. Malakas pa rin ata pagkakasabi ko. Eh kasi naman eh. "Kahit na, 'lo! Masyado atang mabilis!"

I glared at Nathan. Ba't ba kung kelan kailangan syang magreklamo, dun sya hindi nagrereklamo!?

Lolo Martin sighed. "Gianna, napag-usapan na natin to,"

"But, lo--"

"Hays! Ang reklamo mo! Halika na nga!" Nathan groaned then pulled me. Akala ko ba di nya kami naririnig ni lolo?!?! "Alis na kami tanda!"

"San mo ba ako dadalhin!?" I yelled at him as he pull me.

"Iuuwi na kita! Obvious ba?!"

"Taena naman! Ba't ba lagi ka nalang nanghihila pag may kinakausap ako?!" sinubukan ko syang pahintuin pero, duh, mas malakas sya sa akin kaya hila-hila nya ako hanggang sa may parking lot. Di na nga kami pinapansin ng employees ni lolo eh. Nasanay na ata sa amin.

"Wala kang pakielam!" he retorted back at me. Tae to. "Isuot mo na tong singsing mo!"

I frowned. "Anong singsing?"

"Engot lang ugly stick? Engagement ring mo!" he rolled his eyes then threw a small velvet box to me.

Yep. He THREW the the ring box at me. He THREW it. And, you know what I did? I THREW it back to him.

"Oi! Ano ba!" reklamo nya. Pake ko!?

"Taenang proposal yan! Laklakin mo singsing mo! Kahit wag mo na akong bigyan ng engagement ring kung ganyan mo rin lang ibibigay! Pasalamat ka nga at napapayag ako ni lolo na pakasalan ka! Dapat talaga di ako mageexpect ng kung ano sayo! Kung ngang proposal lang na ganto, di mo magawa ng matino, may magagawa ka pa bang matino pag mag-asawa na tayo?!?! Tanga ka ba?! I'm a GIRL! KAhit magpapakasal ako dahil gusto ng lolo ko, gusto ko parin maexperience yung feeling na nafe-feel ng normal na babae pag magpapakasal! So, thanks for ruining my dream and I don't need your effing ring!" I yelled at him then walked out. Yes, I walked out and left him. Bahala na sya sa buhay nya!

Chapter 9: Ring + Rain = Shut Up and Marry Me.

**Nathan's POV**

Ano nanaman ba yung maling ginawa ko? Ano ineexpect nya, luluhod ako? Eh magpapakasal lang naman kami kasi gusto ni lolo tapos gusto nyo luluhod pa ako? Asa sya!

Kaya lang, nagalit nga ata sa akin. Malay ko bang hopeless romantic yung babaeng yun! Gusto pa naman ni tanda, bigyan ko si ugly stick ng engagement ring. Tss.

I stared at the ring. Nakakainis yung ugly stick na yun. Nag-effort na nga akong bumuli ng engagement ring para sa kanya tapos minsan nya lang ibabato sa akin? The hell was that?! Ba;t naman kasi gusto pa ni tanda na bigyan ko ng engagement ring yun eh! Ang arte!

Sumandal ako sa motor ko tapos kinuha ko yung phone ko. I dialled the old man's number.

"Oh? Something wrong?" he said pag sagot nya ng phone nya.

Ayaw naman tanggapin yung singsing eh! Ang arte! I told him.

Oh, really? Teka nga at tatwagin ko si Gianna. He said tapos, after a few moments, naka -conference call na kami kay ugly stick. Hello Gianna? Ayaw mo raw tanggapin yung engagement ring ni Nathan?

I heard ugly stick groan. Ang bilis naman magsumbong ng lalaking yun. Pano ba naman 'lo, binato lang sa akin yung lalagayan ng singsing! For heavens sake, Im a girl!

So gusto mo, lumuhod ako? I asked.

Teka. Andyan si handsome idiot, 'lo?! she blurted out.

Sira. Naka-conference call tayo. I told her.

Nathan. Gianna. The old man interrupted. Hanggang dito ba naman sa conference call, nag -aaway kayo?

Natahimik si ugly stick. Sya lang naman yung maingay talaga eh. Sorry po, 'lo.

Apology accepted. Now, Gianna, tanggapin mo nalang yung singsing. I need to dash. May meeting pa ako. Sabi ni tanda.

Ugly stick snorted. Ays! Kung ibabato nya lang uli sa akin yung singsing, nevermind!

Aba, ugly stick, gusto mo nga ata akong lumuhod? I teased.

Shut up, you idiot! she yelled. Bahala ka sa bu aaaaaahh!!! *beep*

Gianna? Hello Gianna! Gianna! old man called.

Ugly stick! sabi ko naman.

Biglang sumigaw tapos papatayin yung phone!? Ano yun?!

Nathan, go find Gianna. I really need to dash. Call my secretary pag nahanap mo na si Gianna, ok? bilin sa akin ni tanda.

I sighed. Napano ba yung babaeng yun? Fine. I said and hanged up th en rode my motor and drove away.

**

**Giannas POV** Oh, God.

Bat ba ang sakit ng ulo ko? Lalo na yung sa may bandang likod.

I opened my eyes and found myself in a white room. By the smell and looks of it, nasa hospital ako.

I groaned. What am I doing here?

Dont you remember? Na-hit and run ka. Answered a voice. buti hindi malala. You were just knocked out and got a few scratches.

Hit and run!?!? Thank God buhay pa ako!

Teka, I stared at the person. Sino ka pala?

He chuckled. Im Kazuki. Napadaan ako nung naaksidente ka. Eh mukhang tititigan ka lang ng mga tao so tinulungan na kita.

Talaga? Salamat ha? I smiled. He smiled back.

Now. WHAT WAS I DOING BEFORE AKO MAAKSIDENTE? It was something about ring, lolo and Nathan eh. Kausap ko sila sa phone. Wait Wheres my freaking phone!?!?!

Oh, Kazuki said. Nasira eh. but the sim seems ok so I took it. Ininsert ko sa phone ko. Kanina pa nga may tumatawag eh. Lalaki. Sinabi ko kung anong nangyari. Papunta na siguro yun dito.

Whaaaaaaaaaat!?!?!?!?! Yung cellphone ko!!!!! TT.TT My precious phone!! Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!!!!!!!

Whats wrong? Kazuki asked.

I sobbed. Yung phone ko! Ang dami pa naming songs and pictures non! Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!

Kazuki just stared at me. Tapos biglang tumawa ng malakas. Kala ko naman napano ka! Hahahaha. Songs and pictures lang pala inaalala mo.

At that moment, biglang pumasok si Nathan sa kwarto.

What the freaking hell happened?!? he scowled at Kazuki.

I told you. Na-hit and run sya. Kazuki answered.

Nathan sighed tapos tumingin sa akin. Tara na. he said then pulled me!

Ano ba naman to. Kakagaling ko lang sa aksidente tapos hihilahin ako bigla. >_<

Salamat, pare. Nathan told Kazuki. if you want anything

Kazuki shook his head. Wala yon. Ayos lang. by the way. Binayaran ko na yung bills.

Salamat uli. Bayaran ko nalang sayo. Sabi ni Nathan tapos kinuha yung wallet nya sa isang kamay. Yung isa kasi, hawak hawak kamay ko.

Wag na. Kumuha ako sa wallet nya ng pambayad. He smiled tapos tinuro ako.

W-wallet ko? Allowance ko yun! T____________T

Nathan nodded tapos tinago na yung wallet nya. I see. Sige. Una na kami,

Kazuki just smiled and waved. Tapos iniwan na naming sya.

Joke lang! Hindi ako kumuha sa wallet mo! Kazuki called nung malayo na kami.

Talaga?!?! Yeeey!! Kala ko ubos na allowance ko! Thank you Lord kasi ang bait ni Kazuki!!!

Nung nasa may parking lot na kami, biglang huminto si Nathan. Ok ka lang? he asked.

Ok? I turned and saw my reflection in car window. I looked kind of scared. Then, naalala ko yung mga nangyari.

I was talking to Nathan and lolo on the phone. Palipat ako ng daan non. Then, suddenly, a heavy force pushed me painfully. I screamed and everything went dark.

Oi. Ok ka lang? tawag uli ni Nathan.

I I I sobbed then cried on Nathans chest. Nakakatakot. Muntik pa ata akong mamatay. T__T

I cried and cried on Nathans chest. He was just quiet and kept on rubbing my back.

** I looked around as I wait for Nathan. May kakausapin lang daw. Andito kami sa five star restaurant. Kakain daw kami ng early dinner.

I smiled. After kong umiyak ng umiyak kanina, dinala ako ni Nathan sa isang amusement park. Tapos nung nahilo na kami sa kakasakay ng mga rides, namasyal naman kami sa mall. Binili pa nga akong dress ang sandals. Tapos pinaayos ako sa salon. Mukha daw kasi akong ginahasa eh. xD

Una daw yung dessert. Tapos main dish. Sabi ni Nathan pag-upo nya sa upuan nya. Bilin pala ni tanda, ihatid nalang kita. Malakas yung ulan sa labas eh.

I nodded and smiled. Tapos, di man kami nag-away ngayon. Matino kami. Hehe

Few moments after watching Nathan wearing a smug smile, dumatinmg na yung dessert. Ice cream. Mountains of ice cream. Naglalaway na akoooo. xD

Dig in. he smiled. Ingat lang. Baka may makain kang di dapat kainin. Tulad ng s spoon.

I stucked my tongue out then digged in. Shaaarap! After a few spoonfuls, may nafeel akong matigas at bilog sa bibig ko. Could it be..?

Niluwa ko yung kung anong bagay na nasa bibig ko. Tama! Its a ring! (Of course I made sure na walang kasamang ice cream. xD)

Oh. Wow. I murmured as I study the ring. Silver ba to o gold platinum? Nakakatakot ung diamonds eh. Totoo kaya to? **pic on the side. :)** xD

Will you marry me? asked Nathan..

Of course. I looked up to him and smiled. He smiled back.

Syempre! Di naman pwedeng tumanggi! xD

He took the ring then wore it in my ring finger. Wag mong iwawala yan. Totoo yan. Mahal yan.

I stuck my tongue out. Tapos dumating na yung main dishes.

I just couldnt help but smile. This is such a happy moment. :)

But Nathan ended it when he told me this, Im a bit possessive so bawal may lumapit sayong lalaki at bawal kang lumapit sa lalaki.

I stopped and stared at him. Hinihintay kong bawiin nya yung sinabi nya. Pero, di nya ginawa. So I stood up and took off the ring. Sayo na yang singsing mo. I dont have any intention to ignore my guy friends. I said then left him.

I bit my lower lip as I try not to cry. How can he be so selfish? Ayos na sana eh. Sinira nya pa. Lumabas ako ng restaurant. Umuulan nga ng malakas pero di pa ganon kadilim. I started to walk. Wala akong pakielam kahit nababasa ako. At least hindi halata na umiiyak ako.

Malayo-layo na rin nalakad ko nung may nanghila sa akin.

Ano ba?! I yelled and found myself face to face with Nathan. Leave me alone!

No, he said in a serious voice. Basang basa na kami. Giniginaw na nga ako eh. Just stand there and dont you dare walk away.

I glared at him pero di ako umalis sa kinatatayuan ko. Napaatras ako when he suddenly kneeled down on his one knee on the wet road. Na-conscious pa nga ako kasi pinagtitinginan kami ng mga dumadaan. Dalawang tao ba naman na ang ganda ng suot tapos naliligo sa ulan, nakaluhod pa yung isa, di ka ba magtataka?

Gianna Chloe Dizon, Nathan said in a very loud voice. Will you be my Gianna Chloe Dizon-Miguel, my own wife? Please?

I stared at him with wide eyes. Alien ba to? Nakidnap ba si handsome idiot? O baka sinasapian to?

Say yes! kantiyaw ng mga dumadaan na nanunuod sa amin.

Pero, kinikilig man ako sa ginawa ni Nathan, nagsabi sabi pa rin ako. Tapos sasabihin mo nanaman na bawal lumapit sa akin yung mga kaibigan kong lalaki? Tapos (blah blah blah. You know the idea. XD)

Will you just shut up and marry me?

Fine!

Chapter 10: XOXO under the blanket.

"Ay, bakla! Truliloo na diamond yan! Mahalia Jackson yang ring na yan!" Ashley said nung pinakita ko yung ring na binigay sa akin ni Nathan. I smirked. "So parang jowa mo na nyan si fafa Nathan? Aaay! Bet ko yan bakla! Bet ko yaaaan!"

Kakatapos ko lang ikwento kay Ashley yung mga happenings last night. Yung hinagis sa akin ni Nathan yung singsing tapos binato ko sa kanya. Yung naaksidente ako. Yung sinundo ako ni Nathan. Yung umiyak ako. Yung dinala nya ako sa amusement park. Yung pinaayos nya ako. Yung kumain kami sa restaurant. Yung nag-away kami. Yung hinabol nya ako. And yung lumuhod sya sa daan para lang ibigay yung singsing. O di ba. Nakakakilig lang. :"""")

"Haha. O bakla, salamat sa paghatid ha? Ayaw mo talagang bumaba? Papakilala kita kay Sam. Alam ko namang di mo sya nakausap kahapon dahil kay Des." I smiled.

"Ay talaga bakla? Owmaygaaad. O sige bakla! Mauna ka na! Magpapa-beauty lang aketch!" tili nito tapos pinagtabuyan ako. Baklang to, oo! Lumalandi nanaman! Hahahaha!

"Hoy baklang malande! Wag ka ngang manulak at baka magbago pa ang isip ko na pakilala ka kay Sam!" I warned but giggled.

Ashley just flicked her (wala ng kokontra. hahaha) hand. "Oo na. If I know, nilandi-lande mo rin si fafa Nathan and fafa Kazuki kahapon. Aminiiiin!"

Natawa ako. Baklang to talaga! Marinig lang ata ang salitang 'pogi', ginagawa ng papa! Pati si Nathan KO, sinali! Hahaha. O, o. Wala ng kokontra. Akin na muna si Nathan. Ang mahal palang ng bigay sa aking diamond ring, no! xD

Bumaba na akong ng sasakyan nya. "Osya bakla. I'll go ahead. And since wala kang pasok ngayon, just wait for me at the cafeteria later at lunch ha?"

Ashley rolled her eyes. "Ok baklaaa. Magbababad muna aketch sa salon. Just text me, ok? Fly na ako. Just make sure na makaka-close ko si fafa Sam! Or else... Ire-rape ko sya ng bonggang bongga!"

"Heh! Baklang to! Maghunusdili ka nga! Maawa ka kay Sam!" saway ko kunwari habang pinipigilan ko sarili ko sa pagtawa.

"Aba, hoy bakla. Forever ka nalang ba tatayo dyan? Baka ma-late ka pa! Sisihin pa ako ni fafa Nathan and fafa Sam." she (wag ng kumontra. pagbigyan. xD) reminded me.

"Ay oo nga! pasensya na bakla! Later ha? I need to run!" I told her then ran. Literally ran. Malapit na akong ma-late eh.

Drop everything now. Meet me in the pouring rain. Kiss me on the side walk, take away the pain.

I took out my phone as I ran. Muntik ko pa ngang mahulog eh. Ano ba yan. Ang bagu-bago tapos ihuhulog ko na? Aawayin lang ako ni Nathan! Buti nga binili nya ako kagabi tapos kinuha pa yung sim ko kay Kazuki. Laki ng effort nya para sa phone na to. Pero mahuhulog ko na dapat talaga yung phone na to nung nakita ko kung sino yung tumatawag.

Calling... Nathan

Yup. May heart. Wag na kayong kumontra. Pinalitan nya kagabi at nilagyan ng heart. Feeling din eh no? Haha. Wag ko daw papalitan kundi, lagot ako! Hahahaha.

"Hello?" sabi ko nung sinagot ko.

"Gi..."

Owemgee. He said 'Gi'! "O Nathan! What's wrong?" I asked when I heard his husky voice. Napatigil nga ako sa pagtakbo eh.

"H.. Help..."

"Uy, handsome idiot! What's wrong?!" I asked, a bit panicked now. Ikaw ba namang marinig si Nathan na parang nanghihina at humihingi ng tulong, di ka magpapanic? Eh ngayon ko lang narinig yang boses nyang yan eh!

"J-just come... *beep*"

I stared at my phone after the beep. Oh, God. Anong gagawin ko? May pasok pa ako. Kaya lang, parang emergency naman tong si Nathan. Oh, God. Oh, God. Oh, daddy God. Please help me. Waaaaa. May pasok pa ako eh. Baka naman napano si Nathan. Aysht! Bahala na nga!

I turned back and ran to the gate. Nagpara na rin lang ako ng jeep nung wala akong makitang taxi na pwedeng sakyan.

**

"NATHAN!!!" I called as I banged the door of his condo unit. Actually, kanina pa ako kumakatok at nagdodoorbell pero di parin nya binubuksan yung pintuan nya.

"NATHAN!! HANDSOME IDIOT!!!!!" I called again. This time, I turned the door knob and embarrassed myself. Letche! Nakabukas naman pala ang pesteng pintuan!

"Nathan?" I called when I entered his condo. Ano ba naman yan. Ang dilim ng condo ng lalaking to. Nakasarado naman kasi lahat ng kurtina.

"Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" I screamed nung biglang may dumagan sa aking mabigat at mainit! alsdfhajkasljkjdalkkjhjsafsfsdfhjsadhsf!!!! Ano to!?! Tinatakot ba ako ni Nathan!? Lagot sa akin y--

"'gly stick..." he said weakly.

Oo nga pala! Kaya pala napasugod ako dito at di pumasok kasi nag-aalala ako kay pesteng handsome idiot!

Hinawakan ko yung noo ni Nathan. Lalo akong nag-alala nung na-feel kong sobrang init nya. "Oh, damn. You're so hot."

"I know I'm hot. Thanks for admitting it." he whispered at my ear. I shivered.

I rolled my eyes. "You're hot, as in hot. Literally hot."

"Yep." sabi nya habang hinihingal. Ano to, nakipag-race? "I said I know I'm hot and sexy."

"Aysht!" I just said then turned and carried (actually, dragged and pulled) him towards the sofa. "Mahiga ka lang dyan! Nilalagnat ka, kung anu-ano pa pinagsasabi mo!"

Iniwan ko muna sya tapos binuksan yung mga kurtina para maliwanagan naman yung living room. I smiled nung makita kong maliwanag naman pala talaga at di na kailangang buksan yung ilaw nung mabuksan ko lahat ng kurtina. Pati mga kwarto, di ko pinatawad. Pati kwarto ni Nathan, pinasok at binuksan ko ang mga kurtina.

But, I sighed and shook my head nung makita ko yung itsura ni Nathan sa sofa pagbalik ko. Naka-boxers lang sya at shirtless. Nilalagnat nyan sya ha! As in ang init nya! Pumasok ako ulit sa kwarto nya para kumuha ng shirt at jogging pants. Wala sayang pajamas eh. Ewan ko ba sa kanya. Tapos, pumunta ako sa para kumuha ng maligamgam na tubig at pamunas. Hihilamusan ko muna si Nathan. Pagkakuha ko ng pamunas at nung nalagyan ko na ng lukewarm water yung palanggana, binalikan ko na si Nathan.

"Nathan, hihilamusan muna kita tapos bibihisan ha? wag ka ng makulit. Baka masapak kita." I told him. He just groaned.

I wiped his face gently. Tapos... you know the idea. Basta pinunasan ko sya. Hehehe. Tapos, binihisan ko. Sa mga nagnanasa kay Nathan dyan, don't worry. Mahal ko ang virginity ng aking mga kamay at beautiful eyes kaya di ko na pinatanggal ang boxers nya at pinasuot ko nalang yung pants and shirt. Tapos, kinaladkad ko nanaman sya sa kwarto nya para naman makahiga sya ng maayos.

"Whew! Pinagpawisan ako dun ah!" I said in relief nung nakahiga na nga maayos si Nathan.

Tapos, nung medyo malalim na yung tulog nya, pumunta muna ako ng kusina para humanap ng makakain ni Nathan.

**

"Yes, 'lo. Opo. Sure sure. Opo. Ako ng bahala. Sige. Bye, 'lo." sagot ko kay lolo sa mga bilin nya. Ininform ko kasi sya na nilalagnat si Nathan so ako ng bahala sa kanya. Di naman kasi makapunta si lolo kasi may business meeting daw sila out of town.

Medyo late na rin. mag 8 PM na at maghapon kong inaalagaan si Nathan. Grabe lang pala tong lagnatin eh. Parang sinapian. Sobrang tino at tahimik. Nakakapanibago nga eh. Nakakapagod din. Kasi lagi ko sya pinupunasan at pinapalitan ng damit. Sobra kung pagpawisan eh. Medyo bumbaba na nga lagnat nya eh. Kanina 39.5 C pero ngayon, 38 C nalang.

I took my place beside Nathan. Tapos sumandal ako sa headrest. Pagpahingahin naman sana kao ni Nathan kahit 30 minutes lang. Nakakapagod talaga sya eh. Tas ang bigat pa nya. Swear...

...

ZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzZZZZZ (~_~) ZZZZZzzzzzzz

...

I turned as I felt someone holding me tightly from the back. Tapos nag-unat ako. Hmm. I feels so good. Oh, yeah.. Stretch pa sige. Stretch lang...

Napa-upo ako bigla when I realized that I'm with Nathan under the blanket and nakabukas na yung aircon at madilim na yung paligid.

"What the!?" I said irritatedly.

Nathan groaned and pulled me. "Mahiga ka nga,"

I pulled my hand. "O-oy! Anong ginagawa mo?!"

"Gusto ko pa matulog so please lang, Gianna, matulog na tayu." he pleaded weakly. He doesn't see like teasing me. And he called me Gianna. Hmm..

Dahan-dahan akong nahiga sa tabi ni Nathan tapos niyakap ko sarli ko. Nagulat naman ako nung bigla nya akong hilahin at yakapin. "Pa-hug." sabi pa ni Nathan. Hinayahan ko nalang kasi kanina, nung mataas pa lagnat nya, ungol sya ng ungol. Tinatawag nya mama nya. Miss nya na talaga sina tita Stella.

"Gusto mo XO?" he asked.

XO? Yung candy? I heard my stomach groan. "Meron ka dyan? Penge,"

I stared at him bewilderedly nung lumipat sya sa tabi ko. Then he smiled and caressed my face. And slowly, his face descended on my face and finally, he claimed my lips.

I was shocked on what he did. I was confused. Ano to, pinagtitripan nya ba ako o ano? But, I was mostly shocked by myself when I kissed him back.

Nathan ended the kiss slowly then hugged me. I just sighed.

"O ano? Masarap ba yung XO?" he said. "XOXO under the blanket. Also known as hugs and kisses under the blanket,"

I smirked as I let sleep drift me away. But before sleep claimed me, I felt Nathan's hug tighten.

Chapter 11: Jumping in conclusions. Tsismosang manang.

"Gianna, Nathan! What is the meaning of this?!" I woke up with a start when I heard that loud, angry voice.

"'lo!" I exclaimed. "Di ba nasa business meeting ka out of town?"

He glared angrily at me. Then, napansin ko nangyari sa akin. I'm f'n naked with only my undies on! Iniisip siguro ni lolo, may nangyari sa amin ni Nathan! Sh1t!

"It's not what you think 'lo. It's not." I said.

He paced back and forth. "Not what I'm thinking? eh ba't si Nathan, wala rin suot na damit? And, good Lord. Is that... Is that blood?!"

I stared at the red stain between me and Nathan. Confusion came over me. The red stain. We're both naked... Oh, God. No. It can't be!

I kicked Nathan to wake him up as I cover myself with the blanket. "WILL. YOU. WAKE. UP. YOU. IDIOT!!"

Biglang bumangon at umupo nsi Nathan. "O tanda!" he greeted lolo nung mapansin nyang andun si lolo.

"Will you kindly explain what happened, Nathan?" Lolo told Nathan angrily. Galit nga ata talaga si lolo. Lumalaki butas ng ilong nyan pag galit talaga eh. Eh ganun ang nangyayari. Hihi.

"What happened?" Nathan asked. Tapos tinignan nyan sarili nyan. "Whoa. What happened to me?" Tapos, tumingin sya sa akin. "WHOA! What happened to you?!"

"What did you do to me?!" I yelled at him. Aba, sya naman tong nauna kagabi eh! Malay ko ba kunganong nangyari.

"Ano nanaman ginawa ko sayo?!" he retorted back.

"Oh. Ano ginawa nya sa akin? Well.. Pinagyayakap at pinaghahalikan mo lang naman ko!" I shouted at him. Di ko na pansin kung pinapanuod lang kami ni lolo. "May XO, XO ka pang nalalaman dyan. Upakan kita eh!!!"

"Anong XO?! Anong pinagyayakap at pinaghahalikan?! Are kidding me?!" sigaw naman nya habang tinititigan ako na parang nakawala ako sa mental.

In denial ang loko!

"Tumigil na kayo, Nathan, Gianna," lolo said finally. "Magbihis na kayo at baka ma-late pa kayo sa school. Whatever happened last night, we'll talk about it later."

"But, 'lo," I said helplessly.

He headed for the door. "We'll talk later after school and that's final."

Napakamot ako ng ulo. "Lolo naman eh. Si handsome idiot naman yung nauna eh,"

"Ba! Ako nalang palagi?!" kontra naman ni handsome idiot.

"OO! OO! IKAW PALAGI!" I yelled at him. Nakakahighblood ang hampaslupang handsome idiot na to!!! GRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!

"Stop fighting, you two! I said later, Gianna." lolo told us dismissedly. Tapos lumabas na sya ng kwarto.

I glared at handsome idiot then took my clothes and followed lolo.

**

"O, Gianna! ba't absent ka kahapon?" asked Destiny pagpasok ko ng room namin.

"Nagka-emergency lang." sagot ko na lang. Ayaw ko ng mag-explain. Pag sinabi kong magkasama kami ni handsome idiot, lalo lang akong iinterviewhin ni Des.

Pagkaupo ko sa upuan ko, dumating na yung prof namin. Pero yung utak ko, di pa dumadating. Lumulutang parin. What really happened ba? Oh, I don't know. Wala naman akong naaalalang may nangyari. Basta yung... XO lang naaalala ko. Ba't kaya nagkaganun si handsome idiot? Tapos, mukhang kinalimutan pa kinaumagahan. Lokohan ata gusto ng pesteng yun eh.

"Ms. Dizon?" my prof. called that made me realize that everyone is staring at me.

"Ha? Ahh.. Ehh.. Uhm.. Yes, prof?" I stammered.

"I'm asking you why you are absent yesterday." he said.

Napakamot ako ng ulo. Anong sasabihin ko? "Uhh. Ano, sir. May ano kasi, sir. Ano. Yung kasing ano."

Professor Villanueva chuckled. "Ano?"

"Ano, sir. Ano kasi, may, ano, emergency."

"Ano ngang emergency?"

I bit my lip. "Ano, sir..."

Tumawa si sir. Pati mga classmates ko, natawa na rin. Puro nga naman kasi 'ano' yung sinasabi ko. xD

"Ano nga? Puro ka 'ano'. Come on. Tell me. I won't bite of anything, you know." lalong natawa mga classmates ko sa sinabi ni prof. Vi. Nakisali rin ako sa kanila.

"Ano, sir, inalagaan ko kasi yung, ano, yung may sakit kong, ano, pinsan." sabi ko.

"Oh? Nasan ba parents nya?" prof. Vi asked.

"Ano, prof. Nasa heaven na." makahulugan kong sabi.

Pareho kaming nasa heaven na ang parents. Haay. Bigla kong namiss sina mama and tita.

"I see. Next time, inform me earlier ha?" prof. Vi said with a smile.

I just nodded and smiled back.

After that, tumayo na sya and nagdiscuss about drafting.

Pero ako, lumulutang parin ang isip.

**

I sighed. Wala atang pumasok sa utak ko. Masyado kasing occupied ni lolo at handsome idiot.

"Ay, handsome idiot!" bigla kong nasabi nung natisod ako. Siomai. Nakakahiya!

"O, Gianna? Ok ka lang?! Sino inaaway at tinatawag mong handsome idiot dyan?!" energetic na tanong sa akin ni Des nung liningunan nya ako. Kasabay ko kasi sya pag nagla-lunch. Sa lahat ng mga classmates ko, sya pinaka ka-close ko.

I nodded. "Ok lang. Kaya lang, siomai. Nakakahiya! Ba't ba naman kasi di tumabi tong bato na to?! Nakita ng dumadaan ako eh!"

"Hahaha. Sira ka talaga, Gi. Dalian mo na nga at baka mawalan pa tayo ng table sa cafeteria." she told me ta's lumapit sya para hilahin ako. "Sayang ang beauty natin kung tatayo lang tayo there. Ayoko ngang makita ako ni papa Ash ng mukhang losyang! Haller!"

I laughed habang sumusunod sa kanya. "Type mo ba talaga yung si Ashley?"

"Ay, emegeeed. I super like him!" Destiny gushed. "He's so pretty!"

"Yun nga eh. He's so pretty and mas malandi pa sayo. Hahaha." I told her.

"Malandi din naman aketch ah. Sa kanya nga lang! Anebe. Haha." she laughed. Pero napatigil kami sa kakatawa nung nakita naming wala ng vacant table sa cafeteria.

"Ugh! Si prof. naman kasi, ang tagal bago tayo i-dismiss!" reklamo ni Des.

"Mag-take out nalang tayo ng lunch." I suggested.

"Ha? San naman tayo kakain nun?" she asked.

"Hanap nalang tayo." sabi ko tapos hinila ko na sya papunta sa counter para makapili ng lunch.

Nung nakapili at nakabili na kami ng lunch, (Baked mac akin. Spaghetti kay Des. Hilig namin sa Italian food. XD) nag-ikot ikot ako sa cafeteria para makahanap ng lugar. Kaya lang, nagulat ako nung nakita ko si Nathan na may kasamang babae. Kalaplapan pa! Peste sya! Kung anu-anong kabulastugan yung ginawa nya kagabi. May XOXO pang nalalaman. Tas makikipaglaplapan lang ngayon sa iba!? Di naman ata totoong may sakit yun eh! Ugh! Peste syaaaa!

"Ay, uy. Si Nathan o. May bagong fling." pansin ni Des.

"Pake ko." masungit kong sabi ta's naghanap ulit ako ng pwesto namin.

"Sabagay. Sawa ka na kay Nathan. Haha." sabi nalang ni Des.

Habang tinitignan ko ng masama si handsome idiot na patuloy parin ang pakikipaglandian at pakikipagPDA sa letcheng babaeng kasama nya, napansin ko si Sam na papunta samin.

"Wala yata kayong pwesto?" tanong ni Sam paglapit sa amin.

"'la eh." sagot ni Des.

Eh ako naman, nakasumpong ang kasungitan ko. "Ay, hindi. May pwesto kami. Meron. Eto nga o. Paupo kami. Halata ba?"

"Sungit mo ata ngayon? Papupwestuhin ko nalang sana kayo dun sa may table namin eh." he pouted. Na-guilty naman ako. Nagmamagandang loob na nga si Sam ta's inaaway ko pa.

"Sorry." I told. He smiled at me.

"Hay naku, Sam. Wag ka ng magpa-cute!" sabi ni Des tas naglakad na papunta sa table nila Sam. "Nakakata-cute ka!"

He laughed as we walk. Ta's kinuha nya pa yung tray ko. Napanu to? Adik lang.

"Eh yung akin, ayaw mo buhatin, Sam?" pagpaparinig ni Des.

"Ays. Kaya mo na yan." sabi naman ni Sam. Tumawa nalang si Des ta's siniko-siko ako ng mahina.

I chuckled. Tinataas-baba kasi ni Des yung kilay nya. Nakakatawa tignan.

Pag dating namin sa may table nila Sam, may nakaupo ng dalawa. DALAWANG GWAPO. Kasama siguro ni Sam.

"Vince, Renz. Si Gianna." Sam introduced me to them. I smiled. Kakilala na siguro ni Des kaya ako lang pinakilala.

"Gianna, meet Vince," sabi ni Sam sabay turo dun sa kasama nya. Tumayo pa yung Vince ta's nakipagshake hands. Ohmaygas. Nakapangliliit naman sya. Ang tangkad.

"Si Renz naman tong pangit na to." sabi ni Des ta's kinurot yung pisngi.

"Uy, Des. Anu ba." saway ni Renz. Ta's tumayo at kinurot yung dalawa kong pisngi. "Ang cute mo nga. Hahahaha."

I stared at him. FC, dre? FC lang? Dejoke. XD Makakurot naman kasi ng pisngi, wagas. Haha.

"Oops. Tama na yan, Renz." Vince said tapos tinanggal yung kamay ni Renz sa pagkakakurot sa pisngi ko. "Baka magalit si... Gianna."

I laughed. "Di naman." tapos, umupo na kami. Katabi ko si Sam and Des.

Habang nakikipagkwentuhan sina Vince sa akin, binuksan naman ni Sam yung lalagyan ng Baked mac ko. Akala ko bubuksan nya lang. Pero, sumubo pa sya! Sumubo!

"Oi, Sam! Kay Gianna yan!" Renz called nung napansin nyang nakatingin lang ako kay Sam. Gutom na ako eh. Ta's sya kakain ng food ko? Takaw netong lalaking to.

"I know right!" Sam nodded. "Tinitikman ko lang. Baka may lason. Here o, Gianna. Open your mouth." nag-offer sya ng spoonful. I hesitated a bit. So, kelangan akong subuan? XD

"Sam naman," reklamo ni Des. "Maawa ka nga kay Gianna. Baka pag-tsismisan kayo. Kawawa naman sya kung matsitsimis lang sayo. Nako, nako. Pag artista ang beauty ni Gi. Hindi pang flight attendant."

We laughed. Si Sam naman, naka-pout lang. Ang cute nya tignan. Parang batang napagalitan. XD

"'gly stick."

I stopped laughing. Pinagtitripan ata ako ng imagination ko?

"'gly stick. Uy."

I ignored the voice and continued laughing with Des and the rest. Must be my imagination.

"Oi ugly stick!" biglang sigaw nung sa likod ka kaya napatayo ako at nahulog sa akin yung baked mac ko.

"Oh. Damn." I cursed. Namantsahan yung uniform ko eh. Tinignan ko yung tao sa likod ko. Si handsome idiot nga! Peste sya. Lagi akong minamalas pag lumalapit sya sa akin!

Tumayo si Sam para tulungan ako punasan yung mantsa ng baked mac. "Ok ka lang, Gi?"

"Itakbo mo na sa CR yan." Vince suggested. Si Renz naman, kausap si Des habang tinitignan si Nathan.

"Sige sige." I agreed to Vince. Ta's naglakad na ako. Sumunod din si Sam sa akin. Sasamahan daw ako.

"Teka lang. ano ba?" hila bigla sa akin ni Nathan.

"Napano ka?!" sigaw ko sa kanya. Nananahimik naman kasi ako eh! Natapunan na nga ako ng baked mac pero di ko sya inaaway ta's hihilahin nya lang ako?! Masakit yung pagkahila nya sa akin no!

"Samahan mo ako." he said.

I pulled my hand. "Ba't sa akin ka nagpapasama? Ba't di ka magpasama dun sa kalandian mo?!"

"Ayoko sa kanya." he told me habang papalapit sa akin. "Gusto ko ikaw.."

Tapos, yumuko sya at inihiga yung ulo nya sa balikat ko. Teka. Ba't parang.. parang ang init nya?!

"Nathan? Nathan!" I called while shaking him.

"Napano to?" Sam asked tapos inalalayan si Nathan.

"He fainted. He was sick yesterday. Ba't ba naman kasi pumasok na sya ngayon eh." I answered Sam while wiping Nathan's sweaty forehead. "Iuuwi ko muna sya."

"You sure?" asked Destiny na lumapit na rin sa amin.

"Yes."

"Ayaw mo patulong?" tanong naman ni Sam. I shook my head.

"Sure ka? Pwede kang samahan ni Sam." sabi ni Vince.

I just smiled. "Hindi na. I can drive. Patulong na lang sa parking lot."

Sam nodded tapos nagpatulong kina Vine and Renz na alalayan si Nathan.

"Sa'n nyo sya dadalhin?!" tanung bigla nung babaeng kalandian ni handsome idiot kanina.

"Ay papasok. Papasok kami. Isasama namin si Nathan sa architectural building. Tanga much?!" pagsusungit ko. Ang lande kanina eh. Mwahahaha.

"Aba't--"

"Bye." sabat ko sa kanya tapos sumunod na kina Sam. Ang sama ng ugali ko no? At least di malandi tulad nya. Mwahahahahaha.

"Ay. Bongga sis!" sabi sa akin ni Des.

I smiled at her then tinitigan si Nathan.

**

"Kasama mo na si Nathan?" Lolo Marty asked on the other line of the phone.

"opo, 'lo." sagot ko.

"O sige. Take care of him, ok? We'll talk about your wedding pag-uwi ko. Dyan lang kayo sa bahay para may kasama kayo." sabi nya.

"What?! Wedding?!"

"I said pag uwi ko. Take care, dear, Bye." he said then ended the call.

I sighed then stared at Nathan. Nabihisan at nahilamos na namin sya ni Manang Lorna. Sya yung Head ng mga maids dito. Eh alaga nya kami since birth ni Nathan.

Nathan stirred. Then, he opened his eyes. Lumapit ako sa kanya.

"How are you? May masakit ba sayo?" I asked. I touched his forehead then his back. "Basang basa ka ah. Halika nga tanggalin ko damit mo at magpalit ka."

He just groaned. Napakamot nalang ako ng ulo tapos, hinila at tinanggal ko yung damit nya. Pinunasan ko yung katawan nya tapos binihisan ko agad sya. Baka sipunin eh.

"'gly stick." he called weakly.

"Ow?"

"Sakit ulo ko."

"Gusto mo i-massage ko?" I asked.

He nodded. Tumabi ako sa kany atapos minasahe yung ulo nya. nagpapa-baby ata to eh. Next kong itatanong eh kung gusto nyang gatas. Dejoke.

"Ayusin mo naman." he groaned.

"Inaayos ko naman eh."

"Di ka ba nangangawit? Dito ka sa taas ko. Ako nahihirapan sayo."

"May harang eh." reklamo ko. May harang naman talaga kasi. Lalagyan ng books yung sa taas. Baka pag bigla akong tumayo, mauntog ako.

"Dahan dahan ka kasi." he told me tapos sumulyap sa akin. "Dali na."

"Tss. Oo na." I said defeatedly tapos lumipat sa may ulunan nya. I continued on massaging him.

Ilang minutes din kaming tahimik Nagsasalita lang si Nathan pag magrereklamo. Ang reklamador nito pag may sakit! Tsk.

"'gly stick, paabot naman yung iPod ko." utos ni Nathan. I rolled my eyes then tumayo.

*pak! (wala akong maisip eh. xD)*

"Oh, goddamn." I groaned. Nakalimutan kong may lalagyan ng libro sa taas ko! Nauntog tuloy ako. Shet! Nahulog yung mga libro! Di namn masakit pagkaka-untog ko kaya lang yung mga libro! Nahulog sa akin!! Pati yung lamp shade! Nadamay!! Nabasag!! Fck.

"O, napano-- *blag* arayy." biglang sabi ni Nathan ta's may kumalabog. Nahulog pa ang loko nung biglang bumalikwas. "Napano ka? Ba't nahulugan ka ng libro. Pati yung lamp shade, nahulog sayo! Patingin nga! Shit! May dugo!"

Dun ko narealize na may bubog na pumasok sa may paa ko. One word. MASAKIT!!!!! TT.TT

"Masakit!!!!!!!!!!" reklamo ko. Masakit talaga eh! try mo kayang mapasukan ng bubog yung binti!? Matutuwa ka ba?!

"Natural! May dugo nga di ba?! Alangan naman masarap!?" sigaw sa akin ni Nathan. I sobbed. Nasugat na nga ako tapos sisigawan nya pa ako? Masakit! "O tahan na. Kunin ko lang yung first aid kit sa CR."

I nodded while holding back my tears.

**

*Manang Lorna's POV*

*Blag!*

Diyos ku po! Ano yun?!

"Aray." sabi ng alaga kong si Nathan. Anong ginagawa nila? "Napano ka? Ba't nahulugan ka ng libro. Pati yung lamp shade, nahulog sayo! Patingin nga! Shit! May dugo!"

May dugo daw?!?! Diyos ko. Masyado ba silang nagmamadali? Wala naman sa katauhan nila ang ganyan!

"MASAKIT!!!!!!" daing ni Gianna. Lalo kong dinikit yung tenga ko sa pintuan ng kwarto ni Nathan.

"Natural! May dugo nga di ba?! Alangan naman masarap!?" sigaw naman ni Nathan. Napaatras ako. O, Diyos ko. Di pa sila kasal. Pero promise, papakasal sila.

Tumakbo ako pababa sa hagdan. Dapat ay papainumin ko ng gamot si Nathan. Pero, bigla ko nalang narinig yung kalampag na yun mula sa kwarto! Masyado naman ata silang.. Ano nga ba yung salitang yon? Ahh. Oo. Masyado naman ata silang wild? Napangiti ako. Parang kelan lang nung bata pa ang dalawang yun ah. Ngayon, nagbabalak ng bigayn ng apo sa tuhod si Sir Martin. Mga batang yon, oo! Pero, mali parin ang ginagawa nila. Kung masyado silang excited, dapat, magpakasal na sila! Kailangan kong iapaalam kay sir Martin na dapat nya ng ipakasal yung dalawang batang iyon.

Kinuha ko ang telepono at tinawagan ang numero ni sir Martin. Swerte namang agad nyang sinagot.

"Hello, sir?" sabi ko.

"O, Lorna! May nangyari ba? Napatawag ka?" sagot naman ni sir Martin.

"Ano po, sir. Dapat nyo ng pakasal yung dalawang batang yaon!" sabi ko. "Kuhh. Eh, excited na ho kayong bigyan ng apo!"

"Ano?"

"Excited na ho kayong bigyan ng apo nung dalawa!" maligaya kong sabi. Magkaka-alaga na ako ulit!

"Sigurado ka?" tanong ulit ni sir Martin.

"Opo! May dugo daw po! Mukhang nahulog pa sa kama!"

"Talaga?! Nako. Yung dalawang yon talaga. Sige, sige. Kakausapin ko sila ngayon. Pakisabi naman sa kanila, uuwi ako agad." sabi ni sir.

"Sige po sir!"

"Sige, Lorna. Salamat." tapos, ibinababa na ni sir Martin yung telepono.

Ibinaba ko na rin yung telepono at umakyat ulit sa ikalawang palapag ng bahay.

"Aw! Dahan dahan lang!" sigaw ni Gianna.

"Teka lang! Ayaw lumabas eh!"

"Dahan dahan naman kasi! Masakit!!"

"Oo na!"

Mga batang to talaga. Hanggang sa ganyang gawain, nag-aaway. Kumatok ako sa pintuan. "Nathan! Gianna! Kakausapin daw kayo ni lolo nyo mamaya! Agad daw sya uuwi!"

"Bakit daw?" tanong ni Nathan.

"Papakasal kayo agad! Kuh. Mga batang ire. Excited bigyan ng apo sa tuhod ang lolo." tawa ko tapos, bumaba na ulit ako. Excited na rin ako mag-alaga ng bata!

**

*Gianna's POV*

"Aw! Dahan dahan lang!" sigaw ko nung tinatanggal ni Nathan yung pumasok na bubog.

"Teka lang! Ayaw lumabas eh!"

"Dahan dahan naman kasi! Masakit!!"

"Oo na!" sigaw nya. Ayaw parin lumabas nung bubog! Masakit na! Solid!! T________________T

Biglang may kumatok sa pintuan. "Nathan! Gianna! Kakausapin daw kayo ni lolo nyo mamaya! Agad daw sya uuwi!" Manang Lorna called.

"Bakit daw?" tanong naman ni Nathan.

"Papakasal kayo agad! Kuh. Mga batang ire. Excited bigyan ng apo sa tuhod ang lolo." sagot naman ni Mang Lorna. Tapos tumawa pa.

Teka... Ano raw??

Excited magbigay ng apo?

Papakasal agad??

HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!?!?!?!?!!!

"Sh!t, I'm doomed!" I cried when I realized what she mean. Akala manang Lorna, gumagawa kami ng apo ni Nathan!!!! WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA! !!

"Ano raw? Bakit ba?" Nathan asked skeptically.

"Ewan ko sayo!" I yelled. Sya kasi eh! T__T Ayan tuloy! Fast forward nanaman yung buhay ko! T______________________________________________T "Tanggalin mo na yan! Efyu ka! Nakakainis!"

"Kita mo to. Tinatanong ng maayos ta's mumurahin ako." reklamo ni Nathan.

"Ipapakasal daw tayo agad! Di mo ba gets?!?!" sigaw ko.

"Ahhhh." he nodded. "Ok."

I glared at him Ba't sya, walang pakielam?! Ba't ba naman kasi ako lagi yung kailangan mag-sacrifice for him?!?!? I know that love is a sacrifice but, I don't even love him!!!

Si manang Lorna kasi eh! Tsismosa masaydo! T________________________T

Chapter 12: Inggit Ako! Bitter Ako!!!!!

"Lolo naman eh." reklamo ko. "Wag kang makulit. Wala naman talaga nangyari eh."

Kanina pa namin pinagtatalunan ni lolo Martin yung issue tungkol sa amin ni handsome idiot. Napunta na nga kami sa living room eh. Kanina, nasa study room lang kami. Eh Biglang nagwalk-out si handsome idiot. Sumunod naman ako. Pati si lolo, nakisunod.

"Hindi! The sooner the better!" pilit parin ni lolo. Parang batang nangungulit na makasakay sa rides lang yung itsura ni lolo eh.

"Akala ko ba magde-debut ako?" I asked sadly.

Ang alam ko kasi, ganun ang plano. Mag eighteenth birthday muna ako. Then after a month, dun ipaplano yung kasal. Tapos ngayon, gusto ni lolo, sa eighteenth birthday namin ni handsome idiot, magpapakasal na kami. Ewan ko ba kay lolo anung naisip nya. Nakakabadtrip lang eh. >_<

"Ba't naman excited kang itali kami ni ugly stick sa isa't isa, ha, tanda?" sabi naman ni handsome idiot habang nakatitig sa labas. Ngayon lang sya ulit nagsalita. Tahimik lang to pag kasama namin si lolo eh. I can't blame him. Napalayo yung loob nya kay lolo nung nangyari yun sa parents namin. Ayaw nya kasi maniwala na wala namang kasalanan si lolo eh.

"I can't wait anymore." Lolo said grievely. Biglang nagdrama?

"Nako, nako, 'lo. Wag mo kaming dramahan." tumayo pa ako at nagpameywang. "Bakit nanaman 'you can't wait anymore?' Anong meron?"

Lolo Martin sighed sadly. "May taning na buhay ko. After 6 months, mamamatay na ako."

...

...

HA?!?!?

"What-- But-- I-- HA?!?!?!" sigaw ko.

M-m-mamamatay?!?

"Ah. Papahanda ko na libingan mo tanda. Happy trip." Nathan said nonchalantly. Tnitigan nya lang si lolo. As in. Parang 'ah? Ok' lang yung gusto nyang iparating eh! Peste to. Wala man lang pakielam kung mamama-- I mean mawawala na si lolo?! Ang sakit kaya mawalan ng lolo! Lalo na kung sya na yung nagpalaki sayo. Alam mo yung feeling na yon? Yung parang nawalan ka nanaman ng parents kung mawawala yung lolo mo na nagpalaki sayo? Masakit. Sobrang sakit. Parang pinipiga yung heart ko. Kaya nga nainis ako sa reaction ni Nathan eh.

"SIRA KA BA NATHAN?! WALA KA BANG PAKIELAM KUNG... KUNG M-MAWAWALA NA SI LOLO?! GAG* KA HA?! WALA KA BANG KAHIT KONTI MAN LANG KONSENSYA?!?" sigaw ko sa kanya. Naiyak na rin akong konti. Love na love na love na love ko si lolo eh. Solid. Tapos, bigla bigla, sasabihin nya sa amin, mawawala na sya? Masakit talaga.

Lolo Martin chuckled suddenly. "Calm down, Gianna. I was just joking. Di yun totoo. Ano lang yon, hmm. Charot lang yon. Echos lang." biglang tumigil sa pag produce ng tears ang tear glands ko nung mag sink in sa utak ko sinabi ni lolo. Nakuha pa nyang tumawa! At nag gay langguage pa!

"Ang sama mo 'lo! Nagdadrama na ako eh!!" pagdadabog ko. Nagdadrama naman kasi talaga ako eh! Umiiyak na ako. Kulang na rin lang, maglupasay na ako. Tapos joke lang yon?! Nakakainis!

"Aba, Gianna. Gusto mo na nga ata akong mamatay?" pabirong tanong ni lolo pagkatapos ay tumayo sya mula sa pagkakaupo sa single seater na sofa.

Sumimangot nalang ako. "Di naman sa ganun, 'lo."

Napailing nalang si lolo habang tumatawa. "Batang to talaga. Pikon kahit kailan. Hahaha."

"Sir Martin, Gianna, Nathan. Tama na yang usapan na ya at kumain na ng hapunan." sabi ni Manang Lorna sa amin pagkapasok nya ng living room.

I can't help but be amused. Kahit na may pagka-tsismosa tong si Manang Lorna, close kami nyan. And despite of that grey hair, stern looking and strict appearance, she have this kind eyes that matches her kind personality. Isa pang nakakatawa sa kanya eh yung accent nya. Sample? Yung kayang tawag nya kay lolo ay "Ser Marteen" hindi yung normal na "Sir Martin". Di ka matatawa? xD

"Sige, Lorna. Susunod na kami." sabi ni lolo at tumayo.

Drop everything now. Meet me in the pouring rain. Kiss me on the side walk, take away the pain.

Sakto namang nag-ring yung phone ko nung tumayo ako. I took it out to see who was calling.

Calling...

Aaron Pogi

Wala ng kokontra. Sya naglagay nyan. XD

I pressed the screen of my brand new phone. Touch screen eh. Hehehe.

"Oi!" I greeted him.

"Oi ka rin! Haha." Aaron greeted back. "Kumusta na, Gi? Tagal na nating di nagkakausap ng matino ah? Busy mo kasi eh. Haha."

I giggled. "Di naman masyado. Kaw talaga. Haha. O, napatawag ka?"

"Dinner tayo, Gi." he said. "May sasabihin ako eh."

"Ha? Ah. Sa--"

"UGLY STICK!!! KAKAIN NA SABI!!!" handsome idiot yelled by the dinning room. Halata namang sya yon no? As if namang tatawagin ako ni Manang Lorna o ni lolo Martin ng 'ugly stick' no?

"Dating tambayan." sabi ni Aaron.

"Sige, sige." I said then ended the call.

I ignored handsome idiot calls and headed to the dining room.

"'lo, mag-dinner ako sa labas. Kasama ko naman si Aaron so don't worry." I told lolo Martin who was half way eating his favorite adobong kangkong.

"Ha? O sige. Mag-ingat kayo ha. Uwi ka before midnight." tango naman ni lolo.

I smiled and kissed him on his cheeks. Kaya lang umepal si handsome idiot. :/

"What!? Wag! Di ka pwede!" kontra ni handsome idiot. Tumayo pa sa kinauupuan!

I crossed my arms. "Sino ka naman para di ako payagan? Tatay ba kita?"

"Hindi ka pwede sabi eh!" pilit nito. "I'm your..."

"O ano? Wag ka ng umepal."

"I'm your fiance!"

I rolled my pretty eyes. (kapal ko.xD) "Puh-lease. You're just my fiance because of lolo Martin."

He scowled. "Kahit na! You're still my fiancee!"

"Gianna, Nathan," lolo Martin sighed. "Nasa harap tayo ng hapag kainan."

I turned to lolo. "Sya naman nauna eh."

"Kuhh. Nagseselos lang ang batang yan." singit bigla ni Manang Lorna pagpasok ng dining room habang may dala-dalang isang tray ng ubas.

"Di ako." handsome idiot muttered then took his seat.

"Hagis ko pa sa mars yan eh, Manang Lorna." I told Manang Lorna then turned to lolo. "Bihis lang ako, 'lo. Ta's alis na ako. Uwi din ako agad."

He just nodded in agreement while eating.

**

I stared grudgingly at the ring at my left hand. Dapat di ko man isusuot tong singsing ni handsome idiot eh. Kaya lang pinilit sa akin. Hayst.

*Flasback*

"'lo, alis na ako." I told lolo then kissed his left cheek. Nasa living room na sila ni handsome idiot. Tapos na kumain.

"That's what you're wearing?!" sigaw ni handsome idiot.

"Ay hindi. Underwear lang." I rolled my eyes. Like, duh. Suot ko na ta's itatanong nya pa? Parang nang iinsulto lang eh. Ganda ng suot ko ta's maka-sigaw, wagas?! Nakaka-insulto naman sa dress at boots ko!

"Oi, wag ka aalis." pamimilit parin ni handsome idiot.

"Give me atleast one hundred reasons so I won't go." I glared at him.

"May sakit ako. May lagnat pa ako."

"So?"

"Wag kang aalis."

"Aalis ako." sabi ko naman. Nananahimik nalang si lolo eh. Nasanay na ata sa amin.

"Teka. Di mo suot singsing mo? Galing din ah. Hindi ka pwede umalis kung di mo suot engagement ring mo." hirit ni Nathan. Isa nalang at malalagot na to sa akin! "Ang mahal non ta's di mo susuot? Langya naman."

"Tss." I glared at him when he stood up and went to my room. Tapos pag balik nya, sinuot nya pilit sa akin yung singsing.

*End*

Badtrip talaga sya!!!

"Oi, Gi!"

"Ay baklang palaka!" bigla kong sabi. Nagulat ako eh! Pag nagugulat ako, kung anu-ano nasasabi ko!

I glared at Aaron.

"Gi naman eh," reklamo ni Aaron tapos umupo na sa may upuan sa harap ko. Sya pa talaga may ganang magreklamo eh sya na yung nanggulat, no? "Kanina pa ako sa harap mo, di mo ako pinapansin."

"Sorry naman no?" I hissed. Kainis lang. Hindi naalis pagkapikon ko dahil kay handsome idiot. Tss. "Ano ba pag-uusapan natin?"

Namula bigla si Aaron. Ah, sige. Ganyanan. Nagtatanong eh.

"Ano kasi, Gi," he started.

"Ano nga?"

"Ano, Gi. Gusto ko..." he mumbled.

I rolled my eyes. "Ano na, Aaron? Nahiya ka pa ata?"

He smiled shyly. Aww. Cute~! xD Nawala pagkabadtrip ko dahil sa kanya. Hahaha.

"Gusto ko sana manligaw." he said with that shy smile on his face.

I smiled.

...

...

!?!

"Ha!?!" sigaw ko. Ano daw? M-manligaw daw?? Ha???

"Gusto ko manligaw." sabi ulit ni Aaron.

I stared at him bewilderedly. "Are you freaking kidding me? Di tayo talo, oi! Tsaka, oi Aaron! Ikakasal na po ako!"

"Huh?" confused na sabi ni Aaron.

"Huh? HUH?!" I snorted. "Alam mo namang ikakasal na ako kay hampaslupangpangetnasagadsakasamaanatkalandiang handsome idiot tapos manliligaw ka sa akin?! Ano to, lokohan?!"

"Relax, Gi! Liligawan kita?" he asked.

Nagtuloy-tuloy lang ako sa pagsasalita na may halong pagkainis kay Aaron. "Aaron naman. Alam ko maganda ako pero wag naman ganyanan. Ayoko man eh masasaktan lang kita."

But Aaron was like, "Huh??"

"Magsalita ka naman!" sita ko sa kanya. Kanina pa ako putak ng putak dito eh. "And, Aaron naman. Wala naman akong feeli--"

"Teka lang, Gi. Di naman ikaw liligawan ko eh." Aaron interrupted. Napatigil ako sa speech ko at umayos sa pagkakaupo. "Si Denice liligawan ko eh."

Ay? Hehehe. Pahiya. Shet. XD

Nakagat ko labi ko dahil sa kahihiyan. "Ah? Si Denice ba? Hehe. Kala ko, ako eh."

"Baliw ka talaga, Gi." tawa naman ni Aaron. Tss. Kainis to.

"Ayusin mo naman kasi! Sabi mo kaya manliligaw ka. Di mo naman sinabing kay Denice." I pouted. Aaron just chuckled.

"Gi, patulong naman o." he said. "May plano na kasi ako eh. Kaya lang, ang alam ko, gusto ni Denice na pinapakilig sya. Di ko naman alam kung nakakakilig yung gagawin ko."

I frowned. "Ano ba yung gagawin mo?"

He smiled shyly AGAIN. Dinadaan na ata ako nito sa 'shy effects' eh. "Want to see it?" he asked. I nodded. "Tara, puntahan natin si Ashley. Nagpatulong ako sa kanya."

I smiled then tumayo na kami.

**

Oh. Em. Gee.

Nakakakilig yung ginawa ni Aaron. Hindi ako magsink in sa ganda. Ang ganda. Sobra.

Andito lang naman kami sa isang basketball covered court. Mahilig sa basketball ang love birds natin. Dim lighted yung court. Pero madami tao. Medyo madaming friends tong si Aaron. Tapos nagpatulong pa sa iba so naging possible yung plan nya. Ang sweet. Solid. Ang swerte ni Denice. Pano ba naman. Yung kayang ginawa ni Aaron, may pinahawak syang color red na card board sa iba tapos white sa iba. Tapos naka-form ata yun at may naka-assign na upuan sa mga may hawak ng cardboard. Tapos pag tinaas nila yung card board (yung parang tinatakpan nila yung ulo nila. Ganun. Parang yung sa isang pelikula. Yung sa High School Musical 3 ba yun. Yung nagbabasketball yung si Troy. Basta yun. XD) mafoform yung words na "Will you be my girlfriend?" tapos may heart pa sa dulo. Di ba, ang sweet.

Hinampas ko kamay ni Aaron. Brutal lang. XD "Walangya ka. Ikaw ng sweet! Haha."

Natawa na rin lang sya. Tingin ko ninenerbyos to. Pinagpapawisan ng malamig eh. xD Tumawag kasi si Ashley. Malapit na daw sila ni Denice.

"Ano, Gi? Ayos na ba? Eh ako? Ayos lang ako? Baka mukha akong ewan o ano? Effective kaya to?" sunod sunod nyang tanong.

I laughed. "It's fine, Aaron. Relax!"

Ginantihan naman nya ng ngiti yung advice ko sa kanya. Dapat successful to. Swerte ni Denice talaga. Kainggit. XD Kailan kaya may gagawa sa akin nyan? Yung sincere? Hay nako. Tsk. Tama na nga. Wag bitter. xD

Drop everything now. Meet me in the pouring rain. Kiss me on the side walk, take away the pain.

Nilabas ko phone ko para makita sino tumatawag.

Calling...

Destiny love Ash FOREVER!

May tama kayo dyan. Si Destiny naglagay nyan. xD

I pressed the screen to answer the call. "O Des? What's up?"

"Hi, Gianna!" she greeted. "Busy ka? Kwentuhan mo naman ako tungkol kay Ash o. Please?"

"Nako. Hahaha. O sige. Mamaya pag-uwi ko. Ok lang?" I said.

"Sa'n ka ba?" she asked on the other line.

"Kasama ko si Aaron. Hinihintay namin si Denice." I answered.

"Eh si Ashley?" tanong agad ni Des.

I giggled. "Pati sya, hinihintay namin."

"Talaga!?" she gushed. Talaga bang patay na patay to kay Ashley? XD "Sa'n yan!?"

I laughed as I told her the place. Di pa ako natatapos eh sumingit na sya.

"I'll be there in ten minutes!" then, she ended the call.

Napailing na lang ako tapos tinago ko phone ko.

Habang pinapanuod ko si Aaron na kinakabahan at pinapakinggan yung mga tao sa loob ng court, I can't help but think kung may gagawa ba sa akin ng ganyan ka-sweet na gesture. I mean, ikakasal na kasi TALAGA ako sa hampaslupang pangit na handsome idiot. Tapos wala namang nanliligaw TALAGA sa akin. KELAN naman kaya may MAGMAMAHAL TALAGA sa akin? Yung tulad ni Aaron kay Denice. Ni

Destiny kay Ashley. Ni Romeo kay Juliet. Ni Edward kay Bella. Ni Harry kay Ginny. Ni Hermione kay Ron. Ni mama Bear kay papa Bear. Ni Jessie kay Justin. Ni Crisostomo kay Maria Clara. Kelan ba? Nakakainggit talaga. FOREVER ALONE na ba talaga ang drama ko habang pinagtitiyagaan si handsome idiot? Ouch naman. I know, I know. Nagpapakabitter ako. Pero nakakainggit naman talaga, di ba? :'(

"Shizz. Andyan na sila." sabi bigla ni Aaron kaya nabalik ako sa reality. "Andyan na sya. Andyan na. Oh, God."

"Relax, Aaron." I told him. Pero ayun. Kinabahan parin. Napailing nalang ako.

Pero kahit ganon, successful na nagawa ni Aaron yung plano nya. Ang sabi nga lang nya, liligawan muna nya ng matino si Denice. Ok lang kay Denice. Napaiyak pa nga sa kilig eh. Tapos yinakap si Aaron. Then, after few minutes, dumating si Destiny at sinugod si Ashley. xD Parang baliw lang eh. Pero...

Inggit talaga ako!

Bitter na kung bitter! Ampalaya na kung ampalaya! Bitter ako! TT.TT

Kaya naman nung bandang 10:30 PM na at sobra na akong nagiging bitter, nagpaalam na ako sa kanilang uuwi. Gusto na ngang sumama ni Ashley eh. Di ko lang pinagbigyan. xD

Pagdating ko ng bahay, nadatnan ko na lang si handsome idiot na natutulog sa sofa. Siguro hinintay ako. Ewan o ano pero natanggal kahit papano pagkainis ko sa kanya.

Para naman di ako maguilty, umakyat ako sa kwarto ni handsome idiot dito sa bahay tapos kinuha yung kumot nya. Ayoko na syang gisingin. Baka magwala pa. Di ko naman mabuhat. Mabigat pa sa akin yan.

Haaay. Sana, sana talaga, maexperience namin ni Nathan yon. Yung ma-in love kami. Tapos love din kami nung taong yon. Sana talaga.

Tss. Bitter parin, dre?

Chapter 13: Iyaking Nathan.

*Nathan's POV*

Ba't ba ang tagal ng ugly stick na yon?!? Kanina pa sya wala eh! Anong oras na! Ang tagal nya!!

"Nathan, anak. Wag kang magalaw. Wag mo rin pagdiskitahan at pagsuntok suntokin yang sofa. Maawa ka dyan." sabi ni tanda habang nagbabasa ng diyaryo.

"Tss." I hissed.

Di ko nalang sya pinansin. Di naman ako galaw ng galaw eh. Lumilipat lang ako ng pwesto pag naiinip na ako. Paminsan-minsan ko rin lang naman sinusuntok yung sofa. Pag nagcocommercial lang yung palabas sa TV. Di ko naman talaga sinusuntok yung sofa at mga throw pillows. INAAYOS KO KAYA SILA. Ang tagal naman kasi ni ugly stick eh! Nakakainis na talaga! Kaya ayokong payagan yung ugly stick na yun na magdinner sa labas kasi alam kong late sya uuwi. Tapos, yung Aaron pa yung kasama nya! Nakakainis talaga! Sagad! Fck!!

"Magpahinga ka na sa kwarto mo." bilin ni tanda pagkatayo nya sa single seater sofa. "Wag mo ng hintayin si Gianna. Kakagaling mo lang sa lagnat."

I glared at his back as he climb the stairs. Huh! Si tanda? Concerned? Are you f'n kidding me? Kelan pa naging concerned talaga sa akin yan? Sa amin ni ugly stick? Kung concerned talaga sya, hindi nya sana hinayaang mamatay yung mga magulang namin ni ugly stick! Sya naman talaga may kasalanan kung bakit kami nawalan ng mga magulang ni ugly stick. Alam nyo ba kung gaano kasakit yon?! Yung mawalan ng parents at the age of eight years old?! Tapos yung dahilan pa eh wala namang kwenta?! Masakit yun! Sobra! Pag naaalala ko yung sinabi sa amin ng mga police at yung itsura ng parents namin ni ugly stick nung namatay, parang pinipiga yung puso ko! It feels like my heart was taken away from my chest just to dip it in acid! It fcking hurts!

Business. His FCKING business was the reason why my parents and ugly stick's died. Tell me. How am I supposed to respect the person who CAN'T give up his business position to some fcking money maniacs out there for his OWN family?! They warned him! They warned that old man that his family will dissapear if he can't give what they want. Pero ayon si tanda. Nagmatigas. Kaya nawala mga magulang ko. Nadamay pa pati magulang ni ugly stick. God, I hate that man! I hate him so much that I can't call him 'lolo' anymore!

... . . .

"Nathaniel Marty Miguel." a familiar voice called. "Stop teasing Gianna. Pinapaiyak mo nanaman sya."

I turned around confusedly and saw ugly stick sobbing. Beside her is my mom. She's wiping ugly stick's tears. This scene is oddly familiar... Like the scene from nine years ago...

"Ugly stick!" I can't help but tease ugly stick. "Ugly stick! Panget! Payatot! Panget! Ugly stick!"

"I hate you!" cried ugly stick.

I laughed as I stuck my tongue out. "Bleh!"

"Nathan!" saway ulit ni mama. Tapos binuhat nya si ugly stick. "Tahan na, Gianna. Nilalambing ka lang ni Nathan."

I stomped my feet. "I am not!"

My mom smiled. "Fine, fine. Wag na kayong mag-away. Pano namin kayo iiwan nyan? Baka naman pagdating namin ni tita Coleen mo sa resort, kayong dalawa parin iniisip namin."

"Hmp. Fine. I will behave if she won't tease me with our classmate." I told mom.

Mom turned to ugly stick. "Oh. You heard that, ha, Gianna?"

"Yes, tita Arielle." ugly stick answered.

"Be good, you two." bilin ni mommy. "Just call manang Lorna if you need anything. Pupuntahan na namin si lolo nyo dun. Kanina pa kami hinihintay. We'll be gone for two days so behave."

"Yes, tita." ugly stick nodded.

"Ok." I just said.

Mom gave us a smile before leaving the room.

Ugly stick was quiet for a while. Then, she started teasing me!

"Nathan love Melanie. Nathan love Melanie. NATHAN LOOOVE MELANIE!" she said.

I glared at her. "Stop that! It's not funny!"

But she continued chanting "Nathan love Melanie" in a sing-song voice.

I stomped my feet. She's annoying! "I don't love that fugly!"

"You're so mean!" she told me.

I stuck my tongue out. "Who cares, ugly stick? Panget!"

She glared at me then started grabbing things and throwing them to me.

"Hey!" I complained. Her teddy bear almost hit me! "Stop it!"

"I hate you!"

"Stop it sabi eh!"

"I hate you!!"

"Stop it or I will make you my wife!" I threatened her. But instead of being threatened, she continued throwing things, mostly toys, at me!

"Are you crazy! We're just kids! Di mo ako pwede gawing wife! Si Melanie gawin mong wife!" she shouted at me.

Waaaa! I don't want to be teased to that fugly! "I will make you my wife!"

"I don't want to! I hate you!"

"I... I... I will! Waaaaa!!!!!" I cried. Bigla akong naiyak. She's the one who's bullying me!

"Waaaaa!! Isusumbong kita kay manang Lorna!" I cried. "Pati kay lolo! *sniff* Isusumbong kita!"

She stuck her tongue out. "Sumbungero!! Dyan ka lang magaling! Bleh!!"

"Waaaaaa!!!!" I cried then lumabas ng kwarto habang pinupunasan yung luha ko.

Kaya lang, napahinto ako pagkababa ko ng hagdan nung nakita ko sina mommy, daddy, tita Colleen and tito Jeff. I stared at their...

Bloody body..

I watched their blood flowing from their wounds...

I...

No...

It can't be...

That's... That's impossible!

Then, a sudden realization hit me. This is just a dream. A nightmare.

"Nathan," a voice called. I turned and saw lolo wearing a poker face. "I'm sorry. I can't protect Gianna."

What is he talking about?

I turned again to look at ugly stick's and my parents bodies. But, shocked took me when I saw a single body bathing in blood.

That body was not my mom. Neither my dad nor ugly stick's dad or mom.

The body that was lying there covered with blood was...

Gianna.

I slowly came closer to her body. She was wearing a wedding gown. And it's wet with blood, too.

"It was your fault, too." dagdag ni tanda.

My fault?

Napatingin ako sa kamay ko. Tapos sa damit ko. I'm... I'm... I'm covered with blood! Sht!

Napaluhod ako sa tabi ni Gianna. I shook her body. Pero di sya gumalaw. Nakahiga lang sya don.

"Ugly stick." I called as I shake her body. "Uy. Tumayo ka na dyan."

"'gly stick. Uy." I continued calling her.

I just continued on calling and shaking her.

Tears fell from my eyes when I stared at her lifeless eyes. Parang tinutusok ng mga karayom yung puso ko habang pinagmamasdan ko sya. I just quite can't accept what I was seeing.

"Gi. Gising ka na, Gi. Please." I begged. Then, I took her body and hugged it. "GIANNA!!!!"

... .

I woke up suddenly then realizing that I'm covered with cold sweat. Sht! I thought that was real! Akala ko nagaya na si Gi sa parents namin. Akala ko talaga...

Nakatulog pala ako sa sofa. Teka. May kumot ako? San galing to? Ah. Baka kay manang Lorna. Dumating na kaya si ugly stick?

Tumayo ako tapos umakyat sa second floor habang pinupunasan yung pawis ko. Parang may nakaharang din sa lalamunan ko kaya di ako makahinga ng maayos.

Sisilipin ko nalang muna si ugly stick para malaman ko kung andyan na sya.

Dahan-dahan kong binuksan yung pintuan ng kwarto ni ugly stick at sumilip. I felt myself relax when I saw her turning. Di pa ako nakuntento, pumasok at lumapit na ako sa kama nya ng tuluyan. I almost laughed nung inangat nya yung shirt nya at kinamot yung tiyan nya. Buti nalang napigilan ko kasi baka nagising ko pa sya at bugbugin pa ako kasi bigla ako pumasok ng kwarto nya. Kaya nga labas na tayo. Tara, labas na tayo. Baka magising si ugly stick.

Pumasok na rin ako sa kwarto ko dito pagkagaling sa kwarto ni ugly stick. Matagal na rin akong di nakakapasok dito. Pero, wala paring pinagbago. Maayos parin. May konting alikabok yung mga furnitures at appliances. Lumapit ako sa may kama at kinuha yung picture frame sa bedside table. I stared at it.

Inside the picture frame was me and my parents. Parang may bumara nanaman sa lalamunan ko. Naramdaman ko nalang na biglang uminit yung gilid ng mga mata ko. Habang tinititigan ko yung litrato ko kasama ang mga magulang ko, hinayaan kong mahulog yung mga nagbabadyang luha sa mata ko. Hinayaan ko yung sarili ko na umiyak.Para namang iniinis ko yung sarili ko kasi bigla ko naalala yung napanaginipan ko kanina. Nakakatakot. Ayoko ng mapanaginipan ulit yung ganoong itsura ng mga magulang namin ni ugly stick.

Siguro, hindi kapani-paniwala ang ginagawa kong pag-iyak. Pero, masakit talaga eh. It really hurts that I just want to stop thinking about it.

But, what really scared me alot was my nightmare about ugly stick. Whenever I think about it, it feels like my heart was forcedly taken away from my just to burn it in a boiling hot lava. Sobrang natatakot ako. Ayokong mangyari yon. Kahit madalas kami mag-away, sya nalang ngayon ang meron ako.

A thought ran to my head. I'll pray. Yes. I'll pray. It's been ages since I last prayed. 'What should I pray for? I can get anything I want.' that's what I thought before. But, now. I'll ask for God's assistance.

Dear God. Minsan lang po ako magdasal. Please don't let my prayer go to waste. Simple lang naman ang pinagdadasal ko. I'm just praying for Gi... Ugly stick's safety. Wala na po akong ibang gusto. Just her safety. Alam ko po lagi kaming nag-aaway. Pero kahit po ganon, mahalaga sya sa akin. Wag na wag na wag Nyo po sanang hayaang mangyari sa kanya yung sa panaginip ko. Yun lang naman po. Amen.

Papakinggan naman siguro Nya yung dasal ko no? Sana nga. Sana talaga.

"Nathan?"

Napatayo ako nung may tumawag sa akin. I looked at the doorway just to see ugly stick standing there.

"What are you doing? Ba't di ka pa natutulog?" she asked as she come closer. "What's... What's wrong? Are you crying?"

I turned away from her. Hinigpitan ko pagkakahawak ko sa picture frame. Ayokong makita nya ako sa ganitong kalagayan.

"Go away." I told her. Please stay.

Silence.

Maybe she really did go away. Maybe she really hates me alot. Maybe--

It surprised me when she hugged from behind.

"Do you miss them? Sina tita Arielle?" she asked. "Kaya ka umiiyak?"

Before I know it, I bursted into tears. And she continued on hugging me. Tahimik lang sya. Hinayaan nya lang akong umiyak. After a few minutes. Pinaupo nya ako sa kama ko.

"Gusto mong pumunta bukas sa sementeryo?" ugly stick asked. "Puntahan natin sila. Matagal ka ng di pumupunta don."

That's true. It's been years since I last visited their graves. Ayoko parin kasing tanggapin na wala na sila.

I nodded at her question.

Napayuko ako at nasabunot ang sarili ko. I continued on crying. Bakit ba masyado akong naapektuhan ng bangungot na yon? Nakakainis.

Siguro, di na nakatiis si ugly stick sa kakapanuod sa akin. She pulled me then hugged me. Letting me cry on her shoulder.

"Just cry, Nathan." she told me. And I did.

Chapter 14: Reminiscence. :)

*Gianna's POV*

Pababa si Nathan ng hagdan nung pumasok ako ng sala. Halatang kakagising nya lang eh. Halata ding umiyak.

"Morning." he greeted at me.

Napatitig ako sa kanya. Sinapian ba to?

"What?" tanong nya.

"W-wala." sagot ko nalang. Eh baka awayin nanaman ako eh.

Hmm. Ano kasi mga subjects ko ngayong araw? Hmm.

Drafting...

Math...

Hmm...

Anong oras ba ako makakauwi?

Hmm...

Ah. Mga 2 PM.

"Nathan!" tawag ko sa kanya pagpasok nya ng dining room.

"Ow?" he stuck his head and half of his body out of the door.

"Wag ka na pumasok. Baka mabinat ka pa." I told him. "2 PM tayo makakapunta kina tita Arielle."

"Ok."

"Si manang Lorna lang andito tsaka yung mga maids. Maagang umalis so lolo. Alis na ako." I said then headed for the door.

"Ingat." sabi ni Nathan.

This time, I gave him a funny look. 'Morning'? Acceptable. But, 'ingat'? Si Nathan ba talaga to? O baka alien to?! Na-abduct na ba ang totoong Nathan!? Tapos dinala sa mars!? Kasi pinagnanasahan sya ng mga aliens?! Kasi masyado daw syang gwapo?! Tapos gagawin syang hari ng mga aliens?! Tapos sasakupin nila yung earth!? Tapos yung buong solar system!? Tapos yung buong galaxy!? Tapos yung buong universe!? Tapos kaya nila nagawa yon ay dahil sa tulong ng kagwapuhan ni Nathan!? Tapos pag nasakop na ng mga aliens yung buong universe at nagsawa na sila kay Nathan, ipapatorture nila sya!? Tapos ire-rape!? Tapos papatayin?! Tapos papahirapan kaming mga earthlings?! Kasi patay na yung

kakampi namin?! Tapos after kaming pahirapan, papatayin din kami?! Tapos itatapon yung mga katawan namin sa outer space!? Tapos magbabago isip nila kaya kakainin nalang kami!? Tapos wala na!? Patay na talaga kami!? Oh, God. Ganon pala kaimportante yung handsome idiot na yun sa amin!?

"What's with that look?" he frowned.

"Ah... Eh... Wala!" sagot ko. Naku, Gianna. Wild nanaman ng imagination! Napunta pa hanggang sa aliens!

"Baka naman nahawa ka sa akin?" he asked with a voice full of concern.

"Hindi ha! May sakit ka pa ba talaga? O nagpa-ulan ng milagro si God kagabi?" I asked. Nakapagtataka talaga eh!

"Wala naman ata. Bakit?" tanong naman nya. Ba't ang hinhin mo rin magsalita, ha, Nathan?!

I just smiled. "Oh, it's just, you never said 'morning' or 'ingat' to me before." then, lumabas na ako ng bahay.

**

*Nathan's POV*

Nakatitig parin ako sa pintuan kahit nakalabas na yung panget kong fiancee. Big deal ba yung pagsabi ko sa kanya ng 'morning' at 'ingat'? Siguro, sa kanya. Pero kung ganun palang sinabi ko, nagulat na sya, what if nag-thank you pa ako? Baka nagpaparty yun. Haha.

I headed for the dining room to eat. Kaya lang, nawalan ako ng gana kasi ako lang mag-isa yung kakain. So, bumalik nalang ako ng sala para manuod.

Pagkaupo ko sa couch, naalala ko yung kagabi. Except sa parents namin, si ugly stick palang yung iniyakan ko ng ganon kagrabe. As in. Solid. Di naman ganon yung pag-iyak ko nung kay Gwen. At dahil lang sa panaginip kaya iniyakan ko si ugly stick! Hindi katulad nung kay Gwen. Totoo talagang nangyari.

Hay! Bakit nanaman ba pumasok sa isip ko yung babaeng yun!? Ano ngayon kung iniyakan ko din sya?! Nagpakatanga lang naman ako sa kanya. Nagpagamit lang ako. Nagpagag*. Mangangako sya tapos mang-iiwan? Dahil sa ibang lalaki? Kagag*han. Minahal ko yung babaeng yun eh. Minahal. Sya yung babaeng hindi ko niloko. Hindi ko man naisip na lokohin sya nung naging kami. Pero sya, naisip nyang lokohin ako. Pera lang habol. Damn her.

Sht! Para akong babaeng iniwan kaya nagrereklamo. I should focus on something else. Lilibutin ko nalang tong bahay. Matagal ko na rin di nagagawa yon.

I stood up and walked around. Nakita ko nalang yung sarili ko sa kwarto ng parents ko. The room looks so...

Cozy.

I wonder how could that happen?

"O Nathan? Anong ginagawa mo dyan?" I turned and saw manang Lorna.

"Ah, wala po. Naisipan ko lang pasukin yung kwarto nila mama." I answered her question.

"Ah, ganun ba?" she chuckled. "O sya sige. Maiwan na muna kita dyan."

"Ah, manang Lorna?" tawag ko sa kanya bago pa sya makaalis. "Ba't mukhang walang pinagbago yung kwarto nila mama? Parang di nababakante."

She smiled at me before answering. "Kasi anak, si Gianna mismo ang nag-aalaga ng kwarto na ire. Inaayos nya yung mga gamit gamit at ginagamit yung mga appliances na iyan. Pag daw kasi andito sya, naaalala daw nya yung mga magulang mo at magulang nya."

Tumango ako at hinayaang umalis si manang Lorna. Pagkaalis nya, nilibot ko ng tingin yung buong kwarto. Nung bata ako, parang ang laki talaga ng kwarto na to. Pero ngayon, di na masyado. Sa gitna yung bed nila mama. Tapos, sa may sulok ng kwarto, may study table. May LED TV na rin sa may tapat ng kama. Tapos yung air con, napalitan na. Mukhang na-maintain yung kwarto.

I came closer to the bed. It looks so clean. While staring at it, I felt this nostalgic feeling.

Naalala ko nung bata kami ni ugly stick. Nung lagi kami nag-iinisan. Tapos, pagkatapos ko sya paiyakin, ako naman papaiyakin nya. Ganyan talaga kami nung bata kami eh. Parang mga bata lang.

Napagawi yung tingin ko sa may study table. May nakapatong kasing parang photo album don. Lumapit ako dun tapos kinuha ko. Di pala photo album. Scrap book pala.

I opened it and found pictures of me and Gianna. Yung mga pictures namin nung bata kami.

Yung nasa first page, picture ko nung baby ako kasama sina mama and papa. May mga design design and drawing. Tapos may nakasulat pa sa may side.

Oh, look! It's baby Nathan! Matino pa sya dyan. Di pa handsome idiot. Hehe.

Si ugly stick siguro yung gumawa nito. May 'handsome idiot' eh. Nilipat ko yung page. Kay ugly stick naman picture yung andun.

Meet the baby me. Pretty and all.

Pretty and all? Haha. You kidding. Lol. I continued on looking at the pictures.

May pictures kami dun na magkasama tapos may nakasulat sa ibaba.

Mukha ba kaming matino? Joke lang yan.

Meron din yung umiiyak.

Pinaiyak ako ni Nathan dyan eh. Kaya pinaiyak ko din.

May nag-aaway kami.

Warfreak lang.

May picture pa dun na umiiyak ako tapos tinuturo ko kay mama si ugly stick!

Pinaiyak ko si Nathan! Haha. Hala. Nagsumbong!

Meron din yung natutulog ako tapos may sulat yung mukha ko. Katabi ko si ugly stick na may hawak na marker na black.

Mas lalong lumabas ang kagwapuhan ni Nathan no? Galing ko no? Hehehe.

Meron din yung binabato ako ni ugly stick ng mga laruan nya!

Sayang, di tinamaan!

Tapos meron din yung medyo matanda na kami. Yung nasa elementary na kami. Nakasimangot kami pareho.

Ayaw ako lapitan ng mga classmates ko dahil kay panget na Nathan. :(

Sobrang affected nya pala pag di lumalapit sa kanya mga kaibigan nya?

Tapos, may picture din nung nakaburol parents namin. Di ko na tinignan. Ayokong magdrama. Yung mga kasunod na pictures, nung high school si ugly stick. Di ako kasama kaya di ko na tinignan. Nakakatamad eh. Yung pinakalast na picture, yung picture nung ring na binigay ko sa kanya. May nakasulat din sa gilid.

May romantic bone din pala si handsome idiot. Ang ganda nung ring no? Sana wag na kami mag-away ulit. O kaya tawagin nalang nya ako ulit na 'Gianna'. Wag 'ugly stick'! Nakakairita pinapakinggan eh.

Tapos nun, wala ng kasunod. Blank pages nalang. I sighed. Na-miss ko bigla si ugly stick.

**

*Gianna's POV*

"Uy, Gi. Tara shopping tayo." yaya sa akin ni Destiny. Nasa may parking lot kami ng school ngayon eh.

I smiled at her apologetically. "Sorry, Des. May lakad kami ni Nathan eh."

"Lakad? Saan?" she asked.

"Pupuntahan namin mama nya." I answered then opened the door of my car. "Matagal na nyang di napupuntahan mama nya eh."

"Ah. O sige. Ingat kayo ha? Wag mag-aaway." she laughed.

I nodded then entered my car. "Ingat nalang ha, Des?"

She nodded. I started my car the drove away. Tapos na yung lunch so hindi na masyado matraffic. Huminto muna ako sa Sweet Smile Cafe para bumili ng cake and ng makakain namin ni handsome idiot sa sementeryo. Wala naman si Ethan. Tapos madami costumers so di na ako nakipagkwentuhan. xD

Pagdating ko sa bahay, nadatnan ko si handsome idiot na nakasalampak sa sahig malapit sa TV. Nanunuod ng...

Guess what?

Barbie.

Walangyanghanep. xD

"Hoy!" tawag ko sa kanya.

"Ha?" maang nyang tanong tapos napatingin sa akin. "Hi. Alis na tayo?"

I laughed. "Maligo muna ako. Ikaw din! Kaninang umaga mo pa suot yan."

"Sige. Teka. Patapos na tong pinapanuod ko." tango nya tapos tinutok yung mata sa TV. Talagang pinapanuod nya? xD

"Ano yan?" pigil tawa kong tanong.

"Barbie and the Nutcracker." sagot naman nya ng di tumitingin sa akin.

I just smiled. Siguradong mababaliw mga babae ni handsome idiot pag nalaman na nanunuod syang Barbie. Hahahahahahahaha. (Makatawa, wagas. xD)

Iniwan ko na sya at nilapag yung binili kong pagkain sa mesa.

"Ate Beth, paki-ayos naman to. Pagbalot mo na rin kami ng merienda. Pupunta kami ni Nathan sa sementeryo." bilin ko sa maid na nasa dining room tapos umakyat na ako ng kwarto ko.

I took off my clothes then headed to the bathroom to take a bath. Di na ako masyado nagbabad kasi naligo naman ako kanina. I covered myself in a towel tapos lumabas na ako ng banyo.

Kumuha muna ako ng underwears ko tapos sinuot bago ko tanggalin yung tuwalya. Tapos, nilapag ko yung pants ko sa kama and namili nung shirt na susuot ko. Nung nakapili na ako, nilapag ko rin sa kama.

My door suddenly bursted open. "OY UGLY STICK PAHIRAM NG TOOTHPASTE."

"AY!" I screamed in surprise. Then, I took a wrong step and slipped. "WALANGYA NAMAN NATHAN! MATUTO KANG KUMATOK!"

"Sorry naman..." he said then stared at me.

Tapos narealize ko, nakasuot lang pala ako ng brassiere and panty. "LUMABAS KA NGA NG KWARTO KO, PESTE KA!!!"

Walang sabi-sabi, lumabas sya ng kwarto ko. Peste sya! Ang sakit ng pwet ko sa pagkakabagsak. x_x

And with that irritated feeling, I dressed up.

**

"Uy, ugly stick," tawag ni Nathan habang nakatitig sa puntod ng mama nya. "Naalala mo nung bata tayo? Lagi mo ako iniinis dun sa classmate natin na mataba."

Napatingin ako sa kanya. Naalala nya pala yon? xD I giggled. "Tapos umiyak ka kasi ayaw mo sa kanya? Tapos sabi mo, gagawin mo akong asawa? Hahaha. Walang hiya ka. San mo napulot yun? Hahaha."

He chuckled. "Sa mga movies. Haha. Akala ko kasi pag ginawang asawa, pwede mo laging inisin at paiyakin."

"Sira! Pag asawa, di mo pwedeng paiyakin!" I laughed. Adik din si Nathan nung bata kami. Hahaha. "Haha. But, look at us. Magpapakasal kahit laging nag-aaway."

He shrugged. "Eh pag binabato mo ako ng mga laruan mo?"

Lalo akong natawa. "Ah oo! Haha! Natamaan ba kita non,"

He laughed. "Oo kaya! Ang sakit kaya nung natamaan ako nung manika mo!"

"Hahahaha! Kaya pala may mali sa utak mo!"

"Baliw! Hahaha."

"Eh naalala mo nung binili tayo ni mama ng chocolate cake tapos binato mo sa akin yung cake? Haha." tanong ni Nathan habang tumatawa.

"Walangya. Naalala mo pa yun!? Hahaha!" tawa ko din. Eh nakakatawa talaga eh! xD "Masarap ba? Hahaha."

"Buti nga binato mo sa akin eh!" sagot nya. "Nabitin kasi ako non sa cake ko kaya nakain ko yung sayo! Hahahaha!"

"Sira ulo! Haha!"

"Naalala mo nung iyak ka ng iyak tapos natutulog si tanda?" he asked.

"Hahahahahahaha! Hindi ko! Wahaha."

"Hinalikan kaya kita non para tumahimik!" sabi nya sa akin. Napatigil ako sa pagtawa. "Kaya lang lalo kang umiyak! Hahaha!"

"Baliw ka!" sigaw ko sa kanya tapos tinulak sya. Di ko na rin napigilan yung pagtawa ko kasi nakakatawa naman talaga eh! Ang bata bata, anong nalalaman! Hahaha. "Ikaw pala first kiss ko! Langya ka! Hahaha! Ang bata mo, alam mo yun! Hahahaha!"

He chuckled. "Ikaw lang ba yung nawalan? First kiss ko rin yun except kina mama ko! Hahaha!"

I joined him. "It's nice to reminisce, no?"

He smiled at me warmly, "I know."

Chapter 15: Seal the deal with a kiss.

"Hahaha!" Nathan laughed. "Eh nung nadapa ka sa may putikan tapos tawa ako ng tawa kaya tinulak mo ako sa may putikan?"

I giggled, remembering the memory. "Oo no! Napalo kaya ako kay mommy nun! Kulay white kasi damit ko nun eh. Hahaha."

"Akala mo ikaw lang? Hahaha! Ako rin kaya! Pinalo ako ni mama!" he continued laughing.

I smiled as I watch him laugh. Matagal na rin nung nakita ko si Nathan na tumawa ng ganyan kalakas.

Nilabas ko yung cellphone ko then took a picture of him secretly. Pwede ko tong lagay sa scrapbook na ginagawa ko. :)

"Hahaha. O, ba't natahimik ka dyan?" he asked while smiling.

"Kung sigurong di tayo pinagkasundo, di na tayo magkakasama ulit ng ganito no." I answered thoughtfully. Totoo naman kasi. Nung nag-college ako, di ko na nakasama si Nathan. Nung highschool, medyo nakakasama ko pa sya. Tapos schoolmate ko pa dati naming classmates nung elementary kaya wala pa masyado lumalapit sa akin nung highschool.

He shrugged then ate a spoonful of cake that we brought. "Ok lang sayo?"

"Yung alin?" I asked him back.

He was quiet for a moment. "Eto. Yung set up sa atin ni tanda. Yung magpapakasal tayo. Yung makakasama mo sa isang bahay yung pinaka-hate mo. Yung mapapangasawa mo ako."

Napatitig ako sa kanya. Hate is just...

A big word. A big emotion. But...

I hate him.

I think..

"Uy, panget," he called then glanced at me. "Do you... really h-hate me?"

Huminga muna ako ng malalim bago sumagot. "Yung totoo?" he nodded. "Yes. Yes, I hate you. I hate you so much that I want to get away from you. I hate you so much that I agreed to marry you just to have lolo give me enough money to get away from you."

"Really?" he smiled but it didn't reached his eyes. "Well, that's to be expected."

Napatitig lang ako sa kanya. Hindi na kami nagsalita. We just sat there in silence under the twilight.

Do I really hate this guy? The guy that made my life hell in our elementary days? The guy who makes me mad as hell?

Suddenly, it stricked me.

No. I don't hate him. He irritates me alot, yes. But, I don't hate him. It's just like when we were kids. When we used to tease each other.

I stared at his sullen face.

Thank God, I don't hate you.

"Stop that." sita nya bigla. "I thought you hated me? Stop smiling at me. It's creepy."

I laughed. "Sira. I don't hate you. I hate you but I don't hate you."

He gave me a confused look. "Huh?"

I rolled my eyes. "I don't hate you, ok? Stop making those sad expressions. It's gross. You're creeping me out."

"Aba't, ganyanan?!" he said then, kumuha sya ng chocolate mousse (dala din namin. xD) gamit yung kamay nya tapos, pinahid nya sa mukha ko!

"Naghahanap ka ng away, ah!" sigaw ko sa kanya tapos ginaya ko yung ginawa nya at nilagyan sya ng mousse sa mukha. Gantihan lang. Hehehe.

We stared at each other then, without a word, we started our chocolate mousse fight. Kuha ng mousse tapos pahid dito, pahid doon. Kahit saan mapadpad yung kamay namin! Walang gustong magpatalo. Pero tawa kami ng tawa. Para kaming mga bata. xD At nung maubos na namin yung chocolate mousse

kakabato, kakapahid at kakahagis namin sa isa't isa, (Wag nyong susumbong kay Ethan yung ginawa namin ni handsome idiot! Baka awayin ako. XD) nauwi naman kami sa habulan! At dahil naka-flats lang ako, hindi ako mahabol ni Nathan! Mwahahaha!

"Oy panget! Tignan mo ginawa mo sa akin!" tawag ni Nathan habang hinahabol ako at tumatawa.

"Hahaha! Ako din naman ah! Haha!" I yelled at him while running away. Kaya lang, pagod na ako eh. So, nahabol nya rin ako. He grabbed my waist then napahiga kami sa may damuhan (opo. Ginawa naming playground ang sementeryo. Sorry po.) na parehong nanglalagkit dahil sa mousse.

"Haha. Ikaw talagang panget ka." he laughed.

I laughed, too. Then, I glanced at him. He was above me. Nakatitig sya sa akin habang tumatawa. When our eyes met, we suddenly stopped laughing. Slowly, his face came closer to mine. As he do this, I stared at his dark brown eyes then to his red lips. They look so...

Inviting...

I just want to...

Kiss him.

"Hoy, mga bata!"

"Ay baklang palaka!" napatayo ako at natulak si Nathan.

Siomai! Napalakas tulak ko! Nahulog sya sa may daan!

"Aysht." he hissed.

"Ay! Sorry! Sorry, Nathan!" I told him tapos tinulungan ko sya tumayo.

May lumapit sa aming matandang lalaki na may hawak-hawak na walis tingting. "Aba, mga bata. Anong ginagawa nyo dine? Gabi na ah?"

Ay, hindi ho. Umaga na ho. Umaga. Ang liwanag nga ho eh. Nakakasilaw ang liwanag.

"Ah, nagkainisan lang ho, manong." sagot ni Nathan. Naka-smile pa.

Tumawa si manong. "Inisan? Baka naman lambingan?"

"Lambingan?! Adik ka manong?! Sa sementeryo?! Maglalambingan?! Wow naman." sarcastic kong sabi.

Pero mukhang manhid si manong at di tinablan ng sarcasm. "Hahaha. Batang to. Mukhang agad na napipikon. Haha. O sya mga bata. Umuwi na kayo. Baka may makita pa kayo."

"Ano naman po yun?" tanong ko.

Tumingin si manong sa akin with matching slow motion effect. "Mga lumulutang at nakakatakot, ineng."

I felt goosebumps all over me. Then, I realized how dark it was. How cold the night is. How scary it is here. A cold feeling was creeping on my neck.

A cold hand suddenly touched my neck. "Boo."

"WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!" I cried. "Ayoko na dito! Ayoko na! Gusto ko na umuwi!! Nakakatakot na dito!!!"

"HAHAHAHA!!" tawa naman ni Nathan. Pinagtripan lang pala ako! Badtrip! Akala ko malamig na kamay ng multo yung humawak sa leeg ko!

"Hahaha." tawa din ni manong. "Aba, ineng. Kay lakas mo naman palang sumigaw."

I snorted then glared at Nathan who was still laughing.

"Efyu ka. Nanakot ka pang gag* ka. Wag kang lalapit sa akin." I warned him then pushed him. Tapos, nag-walk out ako at iniwan sya. Akala ko medyo tumino na sya! Hindi naman pala! Nakakainis sya! Gusto ko syang sipain! Argh!!

Nakalabas ako ng sementeryo kahit naglalakad. Sinusundan ako ni Nathaniel gamit yung sasakyan pero di sya makalapit sa akin. Binabato ko kasi sya ng kung anong mahawakan ko pag lumalapit.

"Huy panget!" tawag nya sa may likuran ko. I ignored and continued walking. Kasi pag pinansin ko sya, baka makapatay na ako sa sobrang irita.

Napahinto lang ako sa paglalakad nung may manghila sa akin. I turned and faced Nathan.

"Let me go." I told him.

"Sakay ka na sa kotse."

"Goddamnit. Let me go."

"Sumakay ka na."

I snorted. "Let me go, Nathaniel."

Hinila nya ako papunta sa kotse. Hindi naman ganon kadali yon.

I kicked his right knee then ran away, leaving him curling in pain. Huh! Akala nya ganon kadali yon?! Pagkatapos nya akong lokohin at takutin?! Asa!

Tumigil ako sa kakatakbo nung di ko na sya abot-tanaw. Tapos, nag-para ako ng taxi para makauwi na ako. Akala nyo maglalakad ako pauwi? Asa rin!

**

"Gi, nagpalit ba ng number si Ashley?" tanong ni Destiny sa akin paglabas namin ng architecture building.

"Ha? Hmm. Di naman. Bakit?"

"Di kasi sya nagrereply sa akin eh. Hehe." sagot nya. Tapos napatingin sya sa may harap ko. "Si Nathan o."

She's right. Ayun si Nathan. Nakatayo sa may side ng entrance lobby ng building namin. My mood shifted from calm to irritated at the mere sight of him.

"Ignore him." I told Destiny then we continued walking.

"'gly stick." tawag nya paglampas namin sa kanya.

I ignored him and continued walking, head held high.

"Ano ba!?!" galit kong sigaw sa kanya nung hilahin nya ako. "Kagabi ka pa ah?! Nakakadalawa ka na!"

"Samahan mo nga ako maglunch!" sigaw din nya.

May gana pa talaga syang sumigaw?! Sya na nga yung nauna eh! Anung feeling nya nyan?!

Humarap muna ako kay Destiny na pinapanuod kami. "Des, una ka na sa cafeteria. Mag uusap lang kami ng masinsinan ng lalaking to."

She smiled tapos naglakad na sya papunta sa cafeteria.

Hinarap ko ulit si Nathan. Tapos huminga ako ng malalim. Mahaba habang pang-aaway to.

"Alam mo, Nathaniel Marty Miguel, wala ka ng magandang ginawa sa buhay ko." I started calmly. "Simula nung bata tayo HANGGANG NGAYONG MATANDA NA TAYO, GINUGULO MO NA BUHAY KO. WALA KANG PINAPALAPIT SA AKIN. BAWAL AKONG MAKIPAGKAIBIGAN. PINAGTITRIPAN MO AKO. SINISIRA MO ANG BUHAY KO. GINAGAG* MO AKO." yung kalmado kong simula, naging sigaw na talaga. Inis na inis na kasi ako eh. Inis na inis. Yung pasensya ko sa kanya, naubos na kagabi. Kung nakakapatay ang inis na nararamdaman, pinaglalamayan na ako ngayon sa sobrang inis ko sa hinayupak na to.

Ewan ko ba ba't ang laking epekto sa akin nung panggugulat nya. Siguro kasi, galit din ako sa sarili ko. Kasi hinayaan kong ma-caught off guard nya ako. Tapos ang masama pa, natempt akong halikan yung hinayupak na yan!!

I paced back and forth, habol ko yung hininga ko dahil sa sobrang inis na nararamdaman ko. Parang may mabigat sa dibdib ko. Gusto ko nalang sumigaw!

"Alam mo ba kung gaano kahirap yon?! Ha!?" nahilamos ko yung kamay ko sa mukha ko. Alam mo ba yung feeling na to? Yung parang sasabog ka na sa inis! "Mahirap yun! Yung IKAW lang pwedeng lumapit sa akin?! Yung AYAW lumapit sa akin ng mga kaklase natin?! Yung parang may sakit akong nakakadiri at nakakahawa?! Masakit yun!"

All the while, he was just watching me with his poker face.

I took a deep breath to calm myself. "Now, you want to know if I hate you? Well, the answer is yes. I freaking hate you."

He opened his mouth to say something. Pero biglang dumating si Sam.

"O, Gianna? What's wrong?" Sam asked. "Ba't pulang-pula ka at lumalaki butas ng ilong mo? Nahihirapan ka bang huminga?"

My irritation evaporated because of what he said. I even chuckled. "Adik ka, Sam. Haha. Wala to."

"'gly stick." tawag ni Nathan.

I threw him a dagger look. "Ano nanaman ba?!"

"O, Gi. Relax. Wag ka masyadong hot. Lalo kang gumaganda." Samuel said then pinched my cheeks. "Tara, kain na tayong lunch."

I rolled my eyes but smiled at him. "Teka lang, Sam. Nag-uusap pa kami eh."

"Aww. Tara naaa. Sige naaaa." pilit parin ni Sam na parang bata. Nagpa-cute pa sa akin!

I smiled and shook my head. "Sam. Sandali nalang to."

"Hindi. Tara na. Baka matapos na yung lunch." sabi naman nya tapos humarap kay Nathan na tinitignan na pala kami ng masama. "Una na kami ha, Nathaniel? Nakawin ko na si Gianna." tapos hinila nya ako paalis.

Pagdating namin ni Sam sa cafeteria, nadatnan ko sina Destiny na kasama sina Vince at Renz. Tapos may katabi si Vince na girl na ka-holding hands. Girlfriend siguro ni Vince.

"Hi, Gianna!" Renz greeted tapos kinurot yung pisngi ko.

"Hi, Renz." I greeted him back tapos pasimple kong tinanggal yung pagkakakurot ng kamay nya sa pisngi ko. "Hi, Vince. Hi, girl na nakikipag-FC ako."

Natawa yung girl. Grabe. Ang hinhin ng tawa nya. O_O Di mo expect na ganito yung girlfriend ni Vince.

"Si Elisha. Girlfriend ni Vince." sabi sa akin ni Sam. Tapos nag-hi din sa akin si Elisha. Nag-hi ako ulit tapos umupo na ako sa tapat ni Destiny. Si Sam naman, sa tabi ko.

"Emeged. Nalulunod akooo." biglang sabi ni Destiny habang nakatitig sa phone nya. I gave her a funny look. Napano to?

"Gi, bili na kitang lunch. Ano gusto mo?" tanong naman ni Sam.

Sinagot ko muna si Sam bago pansinin si Destiny. "Seafo egg, meron? Yun nalang. Gusto mo pasama?"

He shook his head tapos tumayo. "My treat, sweetie." kinindatan pa ako bago pumunta sa may counter.

I rolled my eyes. He is such a flatterer!

"Aray naman, Des! Masakit ah! Nakakarami ka na ng palo!" Renz complained while rubbing his arm.

"Emegeeed." sabi lang ni Destiny habang nakatitig sa phone nya at pinapalo si Renz.

"Des naman!" reklamo ulit ni Renz. Tinatawanan lang sila ng super sweet na magboyfriend na si Vince at Elisha.

Natawa naman ako sa pinanggagawa ni Destiny. Wala kasi syang pakielam kay Renz. Basta pinapalo nya lang. "Huy, Des. Napano ka?"

"Gianna!! Look!!" she gushed then pinakita nya sa akin yung phone nya.

Ahh. Kaya pala kanina pa 'emeged' ng 'emeged' at kinikilig. Puro pics ni Ashley yung nasa phone nya. xD

"Naman eh, Destiny!" reklamo pa uli ni Renz tapos tumayo at lumipat sa pwesto ni Sam sa tabi ko. "Gi, o! Si Destiny! Ang brutal!"

Tapos, nakita nya yung pic ni Ashley. "Sht! Pumatol ka sa babae, Des?! Tibo ka!?" then, he whimpered in pain. Sinipa ni Des eh.

"Gagi. Lalaki yan." sagot naman ni Des.

Tuloy tuloy lang sila sa pagkukulitan. Natatawa nalang ako sa kanila. Yung magboyfriend naman, naglalambingan. Hindi naman PDA pero, ang sweet nila tignan. ^______^

"Hoy Reign Emerald Natania Zandeleigh. Lumayas ka dyan at pwesto ko yan." sabi ni Sam.

Reign Emerald Natania Zandeleigh? Sino yun?

"Sam naman eh! Wag mo nga pagkalat name ko." reklamo ni Renz. Teka. Sya yung Reign Emerald Natania Zandaleigh? Ba't ang layo sa Renz?

"Teka, Renz. Yun yung name mo talaga? Ba't ang layo sa Renz?" tanong ko.

Padabog syang tumayo at bumalik sa pwesto nya. Lumayo lang sya ng konti kay Des who was still swooning at her phone. May laway na ngang tumulo eh. Dejoke lang. xD Tapos si Sam, umupo na sa tabi ko tapos nilapag yung pagkain ko.

"Hindi ah. Initials yun ng mga name ko eh." sagot naman ni Renz.

"Eh ba't Renz pa ginawa mong nickname mo?"

"Eh kasi naman, pangbabae yung Reign Emerald Natania. Tapos ang haba ng Zandeleigh. Tapos pag binilisan mo, tunog 'sandale' di ba?" sagot naman ni Renz tapos bigla nyang kinuh yung yogurt ni Sam! Ang bilis lang ng kamay eh. xD "Akin na to ah?"

Nabilaukan muna si Sam bago nakasagot. xD "Bayaran mo yan, oi!"

Renz smirked. "Asa, oi!"

I just shook my head and laughed.

**

I was walking on my way home when someone pulled me inside a black car. Making me scared and all. Dapat talaga hinintay ko ng may dumaan na taxi! Ba't ba naman kasi walang dumadaang jeep kanina?! >.<

My first thought was: sht!? Kidnap?!? Baka rape!?! Waaaaaa!!

So, nanlaban ako. I kicked, punched and resisted as the stranger cover my mouth. I was so agitated that it didn't quite registered at me when my kidnapper-slash-rapist-ba-to?! complained.

Ohmegad. Ohmegad! He pushed me on the back seat! Waaaaaa!!!! Please Lord, help me!!!! T________T

"Waaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!" I screamed as I shake the guy off. "Rapist!!!!!!!!!!!!"

"Sht! Aray naman eh! Tumigil ka nga, ugly stick! Wag kang malikot! Sakit mong manapak eh!"

"Waaa-- huh?!" ugly stick? UGLY STICK!? Si Nathan to ah?! "Taena ka?! Anong ginagawa mo?!?!"

"Ayaw mo kaya akong kausapin ng matino! Sigaw ka ng sigaw!" he yelled. "Tapos nung yung Sam yung kumausap sayo, tumatawa ka pa! Nang-iinis ka ba?!"

"Gag* ka pala eh! Kakasabi ko lang sayo na ayaw kong may sumisira ng buhay ko eh!" bulyaw ko din sa kanya. Nakakainis sya! Argh! Tapos ano pa tong nalalaman nya! "Eh yun mismo ginagawa mo eh! Naninira ng buhay!"

"Pano ko naman sinira yung buhay mo?!"

"Wag mo ng itanong kasi aabutin tayo ng umaga sa sobrang dami!"

"Kung isasama mo yung mga ginawa ko sayo nung bata tayo, marami ka rin naman ginawa sa akin na nakakainis ah!!"

"Pero mas malala naman yung mga pinanggagawa mo!!"

"O sorry naman!"

"Wala ng magagawa yung sorry mo kasi tapos na!"

"I'll make a deal with you." he said then held my face with his hands. "I won't tease you or what if you stop treating me like I ruined your awesome life."

Pinag-isipan ko muna saglit yung offer nya. Ayos naman. Kaya lang.. OHMEGAD PAG NALAMAN NG MGA BABAE NYA NA ASAWA NA NYA NYAN AKO, PATAY NA AKO!

"Hoy, hindi ganon kadali yon!" bulyaw ko sa kanya. Ba, ayaw ko atang maexperience yung naexperience ni ano, ni Janelle ba yung ng Princess Hours nung nalaman ng schoolmates nila na mapapangasawa sya nung Gian!! "Ang gusto ko, wag na wag na wag malalaman ng mga schoolmates natin na magiging asawa mo ako!!"

"Tss. Wag ka ngang sumigaw. Nasa harap mo lang ako eh." he rolled his eyes.

I hissed. "Take the deal or leave it."

He smirked. "It's a deal then."

"Hahahahahahahahahahahaha. K." I sarcastically laugh.

"Let's seal the deal then." he added.

I frowned then, before I knew it, he was kissing me with a smug smile on his face.

Chapter 16: Malandi talaga kahit kailan.

I yawned then rubbed my eyes. Kanina pa ako nakatitig sa prof. ko. Wala namang pumapasok sa utak ko. As in wala. Nada. None. Nakuha ng lumipat kami sa next subject namin, nag short quiz (Guess my score. A wonderful 3/15. -____-) at lumipat ulit kami next subject namin bago dismissal. Pero gaya nga ng sinabi ko kanina. Wala paring pumapasok sa utak ko. Wala talaga.

Antok na antok kasi ako eh. Di ako nakatulog ng maayos kagabi kakaisip kay handsome idiot. Kahit nga nung lunch, wala ako sa sarili ko. Tapos ngayon, kumakain kami sa cafeteria. (nagugutom daw si Sam eh. xD) Kung di nga lang sinabi sa akin ni Renz na kinakain na ni Sam yung pagkain ko, di ko pa mapapansin.

"Sam naman," reklamo ni Renz. "Stop stuffing Gianna's food in your mouth."

Una pa talagang nagreklamo si Renz sa akin. xD

I can't help but smile at the sight of Sam. He's mouth is stuffed with food! As in puno kaya di sya makapagsalita ng matino! Hahaha.

"Indi aman kai nya inaanin." sabi ni Sam kahit may laman yung bibig kaya di namin sya maintindihan.

"Alam mo ba yung kasabihang 'don't talk when your mouth is full' ha Sam?" tumatawang tanong ni Vince.

Sam just smiled. Napatitig ako sa kanya. He looks oddly familiar. I mean, now that his mouth is bulging with food, parang may naalala akong kamukha nya. My heart jumped at the thought. Pero, hindi naman siguro.

"Huy, Gianna. Kanina ka pa nakatitig kay Sam." Destiny called. Tapos narealize ko na ganun nga ginagawa ko. Di talaga ako pwedeng kulang sa tulog. Out of this world utak ko. -____-

"Baka naman matunaw yan." she added.

I just smiled at her. Wala kasi akong maisip na pwedeng isagot eh. Lumilipad kasi talaga utak ko.

"In love ka na sa akin no, Gi?" Sam teased after swallowing all the food that was stuffed in his mouth. "Gwapo ko kasi eh."

Nagsitawanan kaming lahat pwera si Sam na naka-smile lang sa akin.

"Walangya! Hahahahahahaha!" tawa ni Vince (di namin kasama si Elisha. May ginagawa daw silang group project kaya pina-una kami) habang pinapalo-palo si Renz. xD

"HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" si Renz. xD Wagas kung makatawa. Haha. Di rin pansin yung pamamalo sa kanya ni Vince. xD

"Libre mangarap, Sam." sabi naman ni Des habang nakasmile na parang may batang iniintindi ang kakulitan.

Natawa na rin lang ako sa pinanggagawa nila kay Sam. Eto naman si Sam. Walang pakielam sa kanila at naka-smile parin sa akin at kumakain. Grabe, ang takaw ni Sam. Sobra. Di ko lang masyadong pinapansin pero ngayon, sobrang pansin ko na kasi pati yung pagkain kong di ko ginalaw, pinatulan nya. xD

"Sam, o. Hehehe. Si Nathan may bagong fling nanaman." sabi biglan ni Renz habang pinipigilan yung tawa nya. "Baka naman matalo ka na nya sa bilis magpalit ng babae."

"Yaan mo." sabi nalang ni Sam tapos tuluyan ng kinain yung pagkain KO.

Pero di ko na sila masyado pinansin kasi busy kong pinapanuod yung dahilan kung bakit puyat ako. Walang hiyang mga malandi. At talagang nakikipaglandian pa sa harap ko yung hudas na Nathan na yun pagkatapos akong halikan. Nakakakulo lang ng dugo! Grrr.

Don't get me wrong. HINDI AKO NAGSESELOS. HINDI TALAGA. PRAMIS. MATAMAAN MAN NG KIDLAT SI HAMPASLUPANG HANDSOME IDIOT AT YUNG KALANDIAN NYANG OCTOPUS AT MAMATAY. HINDI TALAGA AKO NAGSESELOS. Naiinis lang ako! Paano naman kaya, hahalikan nya yung mga malalanding octopus nya tapos nanakawan nya ako ng halik?! Di ba parang indirect kiss namin yun ng mga octopus nyang malalandi?! Yuck! Ew, ew, eeeew! KADIRI TO DEATH!!

"Huy, Gianna!"

"Ha?!"

"Sabi namin, gusto mo sumamang maglibot tutal, wala namang pasok bukas?" tanong ni Destiny.

"Ah. O sige. Saan tayo pupunta?" I nodded habang pasimpleng tinitignan ng masama yung dalawang malandi.

"Food trip." yaya ni Sam.

"Naman eh! Tataba ako sa alam mo, Sam." reklamo ni Destiny.

"Movie marathon tayo." sabi naman ni Vince.

Pumalakpak si Renz. Parang nanalo lang sa jack en poy eh. XD "Sige sige! Sa bahay nalang namin para masaya!"

"Sabi mo yan ha, Renz?" paninigurado ko.

"Kahit sa'n basta may pagkain." sagot naman ni Sam. MATAKAW!! xD

"O sige, sa inyo nalang." sabi ni Des tapos tumayo na sa kinauupuan.

Tumayo na rin kami tapos sumunod kay Des hanggang sa parking lot. Tapos, sumakay si Renz sa kulay gray na sasakyang mukhang mamahalin. May BMW na mark sa may harap eh. So alam ko mahal to. xD Si Vince, pumasok din sa may back seat ng sasakyan ni Renz. Nung pinapalipat sya ni Renz sa tabi nya sa front seat, umiling si Vince. Trip daw nyang magfeeling boss at gawing driver si Renz kaya sa back seat pumwesto. Ibang klase din trip ni Vince eh. XD

Si Sam naman, sumakay sa black na kotse sa tabi ng kotse ni Renz. BMW din yung nakalagay sa may harap. O sige! Sila ng may BMW! Sila ng mayaman! Sila na!

"Sakay na, Gi." Sam called inside the car then he oppened the door.

Nagsabi-sabi naman si Des. "Ah so, si Gianna lang? Ganyanan, Sam? Aba, Sam. Gusto mong kumalat yung pi--"

"Sakay na, Des! Ikaw naman! Di mabiro! Hahahaha!" Sam interrupted.

Des flashed me a triumphant smile them pulled me inside the back seat.

"Des talaga. Wag mo naman pakita yun. Kaw talaga." Sam pouted. Then, he started the car engine.

I laughed. Parang batang nagsasabi-sabi tong lalaking to. XD

"Mas mabuti ng nagkakaintindihan." sabi naman ni Des.

Sam just stucked his tongue out then drove after Renz.

**

"Waaaaaa!!! Akala ko ba hindi nakakatakot yan!! Ano ba yan!!" sigaw ko sabay takip sa mata ko.

Nakakatakot kaya pinili nilang panuorin! Sabi sa akin ni Renz, comedy. Yun pala, horror!! The Ring!!! Waaaa! T____T

"Sht! Ayan na! Waaaaaa!!!!"

"Relax, Gianna. Wala naman eh." Vince told me.

Nakasalampak kami ngayon sa harap ng TV ni Renz. Tapos nakapatay yung ilaw ng kwarto nya. Tapos ang lamig ng aircon. Tapos, waaaa! Ayan na yung nakakatakot!!! Waaaaaaa!!!

"Gi, wag ka masyado maingay. Maganda na yung mangyayari dito eh." sabi sa akin ni Destiny habang kumakain ng popcorn.

"Eh naman kasi eh." reklamo ko tapos tumabi pa ng konti kay Destiny. "Kaya ko yung mga brutal wag lang nakaka-- waaaaaaaaa!!!"

"Aaaaah!!" sigaw din ni Renz nung sumigaw ako. "Gianna, wag kang manggulat. Sayo ako nagugulat. Hindi kay Sadako."

"Sorr-- aaaahh!!!"

"Ang ingay mo, Gi." reklamo ni Sam. "Halika nga dito."

I felt hands pulling me. Tapos, nakita ko nalang sarili ko sa tabi ni Sam. Nakayakap sa akin yung isa nyang kamay tapos yung isa, pinangsusubo nya ng popcorn.

"Wag mo tignan si Sadako." he told me. "Tignan mo yung kagwapuhan ko."

"Ba't naman kasi-- waaaaaaaaa!!!!" sigaw ko nanaman. Kahit naman kasi di ko masyado tinitignan yung TV, naririnig ko parin. T________T

Napatingin sya sa akin. "Tara, samahan sa labas."

Oh, Sam. I am more willing to go outside! T_____T

Tumango ako tapos tumayo kami at lumabas. Medyo nakahinga naman ako ng maluwag pero naaalala ko parin yung itsura ni Sadako. Parang nagising talaga utak ko dun ah. Solid naman kasi yun eh! Nakakatakot!

"May papakita ako sayo." he told me tapos pumunta kami sa living room ng bahay nila Renz. Wala daw parents nya kasi sa New York nagtatrabaho. Every three months naman kung umuwi mama nya. Maids lang daw kasama nya and si Vince (pinsan nya pala si Vince sa father side nya. Kaya pala parehong gwapo. Ajeje. XD) dito sa bahay.

"Sigurado, malilimutan mo yung nakakatakot pag nakita mo to." Sam added then naupo kami sa couch tapos may kinuha syang photo album.

Nung binuksan nya, may pictures ng batang babae na super cute! Medyo kahawig pa ni Renz. Baka kapatid nya or something.

"Ang cute!" I giggled.

Sam chuckled. "I know, right?" then, he flipped to the next page. Ang dami ring pictures ng batang babae na super cute. Ang haba pa naman ng hair tapos ang gaganda ng mga dress na sinusuot. "Si Renz yan."

Napanganga ako.

Holy cricket. Mother of all tipaklongs.

Si Renz?!?!

"You're kidding." I said.

"Nahh. Si Renz yan." sabi parin ni Sam tapos nilipat ulit sa next page.

Nagkalat parin ang pictures daw ni Renz na nakasuot ng pangbabae at super cute!

Si nga Renz to?!? Hindi nga?!? Anong nangyayari sa earth?! Ba't ganito to?! Napagtripan ba si Renz?!

"Kung nagtataka kung bakit puro ganyang ang pictures ni Renz nung bata sya, sa kanya mo itanong." Sam smirked. "Baka di ko na abutan ang umaga pag sinabi ko. Hehe."

"Pero, Sam. Si Renz ba talaga to?!" tanong ko, halatang amazed. Nakakagulat naman kasi eh. Di ba? Di ba?

"Oo naman. Hahaha." tawa ni Sam tapos binigay yung album sa akin.

Tinignan ko yung mga pictures ng may amazement. Hindi ko talaga expect na si Renz to! Kasi naman, ang tangkad nya at gwapo kahit medyo childish.

"Are you kidding." I said after looking at the pictures. "This is serious. Ba't ang ganda ni Renz? Hahaha."

"Wag mo paparinig sa kanya yan. Magta-tantrums." bulong naman ni Sam.

Tapos nagkatinginan kami at nagtawan. Sobrang tawa! As in! Masakit na nga tiyan ko sa kakatawa! Hahahaha! Ikaw kayang makakita ng ganon! Yung ang gwapo tapos pag nakita mo yung mga pictures nya nung bata sya, puro pangbabae suot! Hahaha! Mukhang tuwang-tuwa pa nga si Renz sa mga pictures eh! Hahaha!

"Hahaha! Nako, Gianna, nagutom ako sa kakatawa!" sabi bigla ni Sam habang tumatawa. "Samahan mo nga ako. Bili tayong ice cream! Hahahaha!"

I calmed myself first. Tapos nung medyo kalmado na ako, tumango ako at tumayo. Lumabas kami ng bahay after habilinan ni Sam yung isang made na sabihin nalang kina Renz na bibili lang kaming ice cream.

We rode his car hanggang sa may Mini Stop na pinakamalapit kina Renz. Dun nalang daw sya bibili. Eh yung pinakamalapit na Mini Stop kina Renz eh medyo malayo kaya kailangan talaga mag sasakyan. Nasa loob kasi ng subdivision bahay nila Renz.

Pagdating namin si Mini Stop, bumili agad si Sam ng dalawang 1 pint nga ice cream. Isang double dutch at isang chocolate.

"Here." he said then gave me the chocolate flavored one.

I stared at him, like, seriously? Kakainin ko to? 1 pint of ice cream? Sakit ang binibigay ni Sam.

Para namang naintindihan ni Sam yung tingin ko sa kanya kasi ngumiti sya sa akin sabay sabing, "Ako bahala pag di mo naubos."

Kaya ayon, nilantakan na namin yung ice cream. xD Habang kumakain, nagkukwentuhan kami. Nung una, tungkol kay Renz (nabilaukan na yun for sure. xD) tapos naging nung bata kami.

"Nung kayang elementary ako, may crush na crush akong girl," sabi ni Sam habang kinakain yung ice cream. "Iyakin sya kasi lagi syang inaaway nung pinsan ba nyang guy."

I smiled. Parang ako lang nung elementary. Iyakin. Haha. "Kakilala ka pa ba nya?"

Sam shrugged. "Nope. I've changed alot."

I chuckled. May naalala kasi akong memory. "Haha. Ako naman, iyakin din nung elementary kasi iniinis ako ni Nathan. Tapos walang lumalapit sa akin nun!"

"Weh?!"

"Oo. Haha. Except dun sa isa kong classmate." I smiled. Naalala ko yung classmate kong yun. "Ang taba nun! Kaya nga laging iniinis. Pero wala lang sa kanya at kain ng kain. Naging bestfriend ko yun kasi sya lang lumalapit sa akin noon. Haha."

"Saan na sya ngayon?" Sam asked.

"Ewan. Haha."

"Aw, sayang naman."

"Hayaan mo na. Haha." I smiled at him tapos sumubo ng ice cream. Nakaupo kami ngayon sa may hood ng kotse nya. Tapos, pinapanuod namin yung mga kumakain sa may Jollibee sa may tapat namin and yung mga dumadaan na mga sasakyan.

"Uy, Gi." tawag ni Sam.

"Hm?" tanong ko habang nakatingala. Naalala ko kasi yung Orion's belt kaya hinanap ko. xD

"Si Nathan ba yun?"

Napababa ako ng tingin bigla. "San??"

"Ayun o." sabi ni Sam sabay turo sa may Jollibee.

At, walangya. Ayun nga si Nathan! May kasamang octopus! Nasa may Jollibee! At, shet! Naglalandian! Hindi na nahiya!

"Grabe naman si Nathan." Sam said. "Nasa public place sila."

I threw them dagger looks kahit hindi nila nakikita. "Hayaan mo. Cheap si octo eh."

"Octo?"

"Yep. Octopus."

"Bakit?"

I smiled evilly before answering. "Parang octopus kung makakapit sa lalaki eh. Hehehe."

Tumawa naman si Sam. Anong nakakatawa dun? Totoo naman ah. "Adik ka, Gi! Hahaha!"

"Matagal na akong adik. Nagdadrugs kaya ako! Hahaha!"

"Baliw! Haha. Hey, Gi. Tara pagtripan natin sila. Hehe." Sam suggested.

I frowned. "Paano?"

"Panuorin natin date nila. Hahaha!" Sam answered.

I giggled at the idea. "Fine! Haha."

So, ayun kami. Parang mga stalker na kumakain ng ice cream ni Sam. Tapos, baliw pa si Sam. He's mimicking every move that octo girl makes kaya lang, sobrang OA! Haha.

"Naging fling ko na din yan eh." sabi ni Sam sabay subo ng ice cream na medyo tunaw na. Kanina pa namin sila pinapanuod (actually, pinagtitripan.xD) kaya medyo tunaw na mga ice cream at gabi na. "Isang araw lang. Ayoko sa kanya eh. Kaya nagpalit ako agad ng fling. Masama ugali kahit maganda."

Magugulat na sana ako dun sa ex-fling nya si octo at agad pinalitan kaya lang naalala kong "King Casanova" nga pala tong matakaw na to. Infairness, gwapo naman talaga sya. Matangos yung ilong ta's high cheekbones and red lips. Yung mata nya, pamatay sa ganda. Haba kasi ng pilikmata. Kaya nga medyo parang babae. xD Ta's ang puti nya. Matangkad pa! Parang dito sa 'Pinas lumaki kasi ganda ng balat. Hm. Sige. Sya ng gwapo!

"Ewan ko ba ba't pumayag yan na Jollibee kumain." Sam added. "Wala na sigurong pakielam basta makakapag-make out sila ni Nathaniel."

Napatango naman ako habang nakatitig sa dalawang naglalandian parin sa Jollibee. Naawa tuloy ako sa mga nakakakita. Nagkakasala ang mga mata. xD

Napalo ko bigla si Sam nung tumayo sina octo. "O ayun! Tumayo na sila! Hahaha."

Shocks! Ganyan yung damit ni octo! Naka-mini skirt at tube! Dejoke! Yun sana gusto ko sabihin! Hahaha! Naka-uniform pa sila. Di ko alam kung anung course ni octo. Baka Business din.

"Aray naman, Gi." reklamo ni Sam. "Muntik mahulog yung ice cream ko."

"Sorry! Haha. O eto. Pati akin, kainin mo na." sabi ko sabay abot ng ice cream ko. 3/4 lang nakain ko eh.

"Gusto mo sila sundan?" tanong ni Sam tapos tuluyan ng inubos yung ice cream nya.

"Sige ba. Haha." I agreed tapos bumababa kami sa hood at sumunod sa kanila.

Habang naglalakad, inubos na rin ni Sam yung ice cream ko tapos tinapon na yung mga lalagyan. After nyang itapon, lumapit sya sa akin na nakasumpong ang kabaliwan. Ang hyper nya! Kung anu-ano nakikita kina octo. Tulad ng paglalakad ni octo. Parang duck daw. Hahaha.

Napahinto naman kami nung huminto sila sa (paksyet. O_O) pulang building. Oo. Sa pulang building. Sa PULANG BUILDING. Tapos pumasok.

"Ay. Pumasok sila sa pulang building." nanghihinayang na sabi ni Sam.

Ako naman, nakatitig parin sa PULANG BUILDING. Alam ko namang babaero si handsome idiot eh. Pero di ko expect na ginagawa na nya YUN. You know. That kind of *ehem* THING. At sa pulang building pa. With some octo. Yuck! Grabe! As in kadiri to the max! Sobrang yuck. Hindi ko talaga expect na di *ehem*virgin*ehem* si handsome idiot! Wag mo ng pagtanggol! Ano naman sa tingin mo ang gagawin nila ni octo pusit sa PULANG BUILDING?! Maglalaro ng jack en poy!? Nangangarap ka!?

"Tara, Gi. Balik na tayo. Wala ng magandang panuorin eh." yaya ni Sam.

Tumango ako sa kanya at sumunod. Tahimik lang ako habang pabalik kami sa sasakyan nya habang si Sam naman, kanta ng kanta ng mga love songs. Napansin ko lang, maganda boses nya ah. May laban. Haha. Tapos pagsakay namin ng kotse nya, nagpatugtog sya ng CD habang sinasabayan. Kahit na iniisip ko parin yung nalaman ko kay handsome idiot, di ko mapigilang tumawa at mapasabay kay Sam. Nakakatawa kasi ginagawa nya! Literal nyang ginagawa yung mga lyrics. Haha. Like nung sa kantang 'you belong with me' (oo. May CD sya ni TSwift. Grabe lungs no?). Nung sinabi yung intro na 'you're on the phone with you're girlfriend', nagkunwari syang may kausap sa phone sa bandang 'you're on the phone' tapos nagpacute na parang babae sa may 'with your girlfriend'. Nakakatawa syang tignan! Nagdadrive pa naman sya. Haha.

Hay. Ililibre ko nga tong baliw na to next week. Kasi kung di dahil sa kanya, tulala siguro ako ngayon dahil sa discovery ko about kay Nathan.

Kasi alam mo kung anong paulit-ulit na sabi ng utak ko? Sht! Ang landi ni Nathan! Ang landi nila ni octo pusit! Kahit kailan talaga, malandi si handsome idiot!

I may look calm pero yan talaga yung nasa utak ko.

**

Pagdating namin ni Sam sa bahay nila Renz, kumakain na sila ng dinner kaya ayon, nagsabi-sabi si Sam.

"Dapat hinintay nyo kami." reklamo ni Sam.

"Pwede ka naman siguro pakuha ng pinggan don at sumabay, no Sam?" sabi ni Des.

"Ay, oo nga no? Hehe." tawa ni Sam. Tapos umupo kami sa tabi nila. "Sorry naman, pahiya naman ako."

Tinawanan nalang namin sya tapos nung binigyan kami ng pinggan nung maid, kumain na rin kami. Nagkukwentuhan sila pero ako, kumakain lang.

Ano kasi eh. Basta. Alam mo yung feeling na dissapointed ka tapos malungkot? Yun yung pakiramdam ko eh. Dapat kasi di na namin pinagtripan si Nathan. Tss.

"Gi."

"Hm?" I looked up and saw Sam looking at me.

He smiled. "Wag mo ng isipin yung kay Nathan. Alam ko matagal mo na sya kakilala pero, wag mo na isipin yung nakita natin. He's a casanova, after all."

"Eh ba't ikaw? Naisipan mo na bang gawin YUN sa PULANG BUILDING?" bulong ko sa kanya.

"Hm. Hindi pa. Haha." bulong din nya sa akin. "Pero wala tayong magagawa. Buhay nya yun eh. Wag mo na isipin ha."

I just smiled.

"Oi, anong pinagbubulungan nyo ni Gianna dyan?" Renz called.

"Yung mga pictures mo nung bata ka." sagot naman ni Sam tapos kinindatan ako.

Natawa naman ako sa reaction ni Renz. Parang batang nawalan ng laruan. Nakapout pa. Haha. Pinagkakaisahan sya eh. Sinabi kasi ni Sam yung mga pictures.

But, while we're laughing our hearts out, I accidentally glanced at the ring on my finger and remembered Nathan.

Sht, ang landi nila ni octo pusit! -____-

Chapter 17: Cold-feet. Warm hands. Mischievous Nathan. *Gianna's POV*

Pag-uwi ko ng bahay, nadatnan ko si lolo Martin na may kausap sa phone nya. I kissed him on the cheeks tapos sinenyasan nya akong maupo.

"Ah, yes. Garden wedding? I'll ask them." sabi ni lolo sa kausap nya.

I sighed. Malapit na akong magpakasal kay handsome idiot.

I'm kind of..

Scared.

Natatakot akong magmukhang tanga. Ayoko ng ganito. Yung matatali sa akin yung isang tao ng sapilitan. Para naman kasing kawawa ang lagay ko. Lagi nalang nakatatak sa isip ko si Nathan na may kalandiang babae tapos ako, behave lang. Expected na maging submissive wife. Basta. Natatakot na ako. Parang gusto ko ng umatras.

"Kumain ka na?" tanong ni lolo sa akin pagkababa nya ng phone.

I nodded and smiled.

He frowned at me. "You look pale. Ok ka lang ba, Gianna?"

"I'm ok." I assured lolo.

He sighed and gave me a worried look tapos nagsalita na sya ulit. "Pauwi na si Nathan. We'll talk about your wedding."

I just nodded tapos tumayo na ako at umakyat sa kwarto ko para maligo at magbihis.

While taking a bath, hindi mawala-wala sa isip ko si Nathan and yung mga pinanggagawa nila ng fling nya. Ok lang ba talagang pakasalan yung lalaking yun? And, parang pinaglalaruan namin yung marriage. Magpapakasal kami kahit walang love? Valid ba yon? I guess not.

After kong maligo at magbihis, bumaba na ulit ako. Nadatnan ko na si Nathan don na kausap si lolo. Parang lalo akong natakot pakasalan si Nathan nung nakita ko sya. -___-

"Ugly stick!!! Ba't ang tagal mo?!?" tanong ni Nathan sabay lapit sa akin.

I glared at him. Naka-uniform parin. Don't tell me dumiretso sya dito after nung... Well, yuck! "Ano ngayon kung matagal ako?!"

"Wala akong mapagtripan! Tss." hila nya sa akin tapos naupo kami sa may couch sa harap ni lolo. "Sa'n mo mas gusto? Garden, beach o abroad?"

"Anong sa'n ko gusto?"

"Basta!" he insisted. I rolled my eyes.

"Abroad?" lolo Martin interrupted. "Pano mga schoolmates nyo? Makakapunta ba sila sa kasal?"

"Yaan mo sila, 'lo." I told lolo. Mas maganda ng walang nakakaalam na kasal kami ni Nathan.

"Ang dami namang kaartehan!" sabat naman ni Nathan. Isa pang sumabat to, papakainin ko ng throw pillow. "Ako nalang pipili! Gusto ko sa simbahan."

Agad akong umiling. Simbahan?! Ays! "Ayoko nga! Lokohan nga lang to eh! Di man natin gusto isa't isa tapos sa simbahan?! Gusto mong nasunog tayo?!"

"No. I think it's fine." sabi naman ni lolo.

Handsome idiot smirked. "Whatever, ugly stick. It's still a marriage. I'm still going to marry you. And wala kang magagawa. Approved na kay tanda. Hehe."

"K. Whatever." tapos papuntahin mo mga alaga mong octo pusit at makipaglandian sa simbahan at sa harap ko. Maganda yon.

Tss. Bitter lang, Gi?

Tumikhim muna si lolo Martin bago nagsalita. "So, ang honeymoon nyo--"

"May honeymoon!?!?!?" sigaw ko. Di nga?! Ba't may honeymoon?! Kailangan ba namin yon?!?

"Natural!" sagot ni handsome idiot. "Common sense lang, ugly stick!"

I scowled and bit my lip to prevent myself from talking. Bahala na silang dalawa! Sila nalang mag-usap!

"Gianna, Nathan, tama na yang inisan." napailing nalang si lolo. "As I was saying, sa beach yung honeymoon nyo. Pinareserve ko na yung kalahati nung resort."

"Kalahati. Tss. Puro si handsome idiot nalang makikita ko non." bulong ko sa sarili ko.

"MAY SINASABI KA HA PANGET?" tanong ni Nathan habang nakatawa parin sa akin.

"Wala!"

"Good."

"At, Nathan, SAMAHAN MO BUKAS SI GIANNA. MAGPAPASUKAT SYA NG GOWN." bilin ni lolo.

"K." si Nathan.

"Aw." bulong ko. Tapos biglang lumapit si manang Lorna kay lolo and binigay yung nagriring na phone nya. Tumango muna sa amin si lolo tapos kinuha yung phone at lumabas. Meaning, pwede na kaming lumayas.

Padabog akong umakyat ng kwarto ko at nahiga. Ba't ba nakakainis ang role ni Nathan lagi sa buhay ko? Tss.

Di ko pa man nakukuha yung gusto kong pwesto, biglang bumukas yung pinto ko at pumasok si handsome idiot!

"Hoy ugly stick. Pahiram ng CR. Sira yung shower k--" di ko na pinatapos yung sinasabi nya kasi binato ko sa kanya yung unan na yakap yakap ko. Nakakairita lang! Biglang pumasok sa kwarto! Argh!

"PESTE KA! MATUTO KANG KUMATOK!" I yelled at him. Nakakarami na talaga sya sa akin! Wala ba tong kahit isang patak lang ng katinuan?!

"Sorry naman!" sigaw din nya sa akin tapos binato yung unan ko.

"Ano nanaman ba?!"

"Makikiligo ako! Sira shower ko! Gusto mo sumama?!"

"Sira ulo! Ayoko!"

"Ikaw bahala! Ikaw mawawalan!" sigaw nya tapos pumasok sa CR ko.

"Tss." I hissed tapos nahiga na ako at nagtalukbong. Bahala na sya! Grrr!

**

*Nathan's POV*

Paglabas ko ng CR, natutulog na si panget. Lumapit ako sa kama nya para panuorin syang matulog. I can't help but smile at her face. Pano ba naman. Nakasimangot parin. xD

Hindi naman talaga sira yung shower ko eh. Kalokohan ko lang yun. Kaya lang, parang nakita ko kasi sya kanina bago ako pumasok sa hotel. Baka nakita nya ako tapos akalain nyang gumagawa ako ng kalokohan at milagro. Di naman ako gumagawa ng milagro. Kalokohan, oo. Secret kung ano.

Kinurot ko yung pisngi ni ugly stick tapos tinigilan ko na pagtitig ko sa kanya at sinindi yung TV and DVD player nya. May nakasalang pa naman na DVD. The Proposal yung title. Balita ko maganda to. Mag-stay muna ako sa kwarto ni panget at manunuod. Hehehe.

Nagstart na yung movie. Mukha namang maganda. Gusto pala ni ugly stick yung mga ganito? Mukhang nakakatawa. Mukhang *yawn*..

...

"Aaaaaaaahhh!!!"

I jumped. "Sht! Ano yun?!"

Teka. Asan ako? Asan-- sht. Ang sakit ng likod ko. Nasa kwarto pala ako ni ugly stick. Nakatulog pala ako.

Pinatay ko na muna yung naiwan kong bukas na TV at DVD tapos tumingin ako sa banda ni ugly stick. I heard sobs. Umiiyak sya. My heart twisted at the sight. Ba't sya umiiyak? Don't tell me, ako may kasalanan? Damn it. Gag* ko talaga.

I came closer to her, not sure what to do.

"Uy." I called. She looked up. "Ok ka lang?"

"B-ba't andito ka p-pa?" she asked between her sobs.

Naupo ako sa tabi nya then, I held her face with my hands. "Nakatulog ako sa may sahig. Ok ka lang ba? Ba't ka umiiyak?"

"K-kasi... Waaaa!!" she cried tapos yinakap ako!

I was taken aback that I couldn't move an inch. Normally, binugbog nya na ako eh. Baka nightmare?

"Bad dream?" I asked.

She nodded then continued sobbing on my shoulder.

I patted her back. "Don't worry. Panaginip lang yon."

She shook her head while crying. Para namang kinurot yung puso ko nung narinig ko yung takot sa boses nya. "I-it seems s-so real!"

"Nanuod ka bang nakakatakot?" tanong ko. Curiously, a human's mind is really weird. Bigla kong naalala na nagkaka-masamang panaginip to pag nanuod ng nakakatakot. Akala ko di na nangyayari yon. Nung kasi nanuod kaming Final Destination, parang wala lang sa kanya.

She nodded. "Nagkayayaan k-kasi sina Destiny. T-the Ring pinanuod n-namin."

Napailing ako. Takot to kay Sadako eh. Kaya siguro hindi pinatay yung ilaw bago matulog kasi natatakot. Makausap nga sina Destiny. "Ano ba yang napanaginipan mo? Hinahabol ka ni Sadako?"

"H-hindi!" she shook her head then tightened her hug to me. Pati ako, napayakap na sa kanya. "It was ssc-scary! Nung after d-daw ng kasal na-natin, pinalibutan ka ng mga b-babae tapos bigla kang h-hinila ni Sadako. Ayoko non!"

Umiyak nanaman sya ng umiyak. Hinarap ko sya. "Shh. Stop crying. Hindi yun totoo."

"What i-if totoo yung p-part na pinalubut-tan ka ng mga b-babae after o-our wedding? Ayoko ng ganon. M-mukha naman akong p-pinagt-taksilan."

I chuckled. "Silly. Di mangyayari yon. Now, matulog ka na ulit. Lalabas na rin ako."

"A-ayoko. Baka mapanaginip-pan ko n-n-nanaman." she shook her head while crying. "W-wag na k-kaya natin ituloy yung kasal? B-baka mangyari yun."

Naging paranoid naman si ugly stick. Is she having a cold-feet about our wedding? Hay.

Nightmare plus cold-feet. Bad equation. I wiped her tears. "Don't be silly. Di pwede yon."

"Yiih! M-malay mo."

"Hindi mangyayari yon. Akong bahala."

"Talaga?"

I nodded. "Go to sleep." I said.

She nodded then pinunasan nya yung luha nya at humiga.

"Dyan k-ka lang handsome i-idiot." bilin nya.

Tumango ako. Tapos pinikit na nya mga mata nya.

I stared at her face. I was trying hard not to trace her eyebrows, nose and lips.

"Nathan?" she suddenly called.

"Hm?"

"Can you please hold my hand?" she asked.

Confused, I didn't objected. Takot na takot siguro. So, I held her hand then sat at the floor. Tapos inihiga ko yung ulo ko sa kama nya para makatulog na rin.

**

*Gianna's POV*

Nawala yung takot ko nung i-assure ako ni Nathan na magiging ayos lang lahat. Hindi lang yung takot dahil sa panaginip ko. Pati na rin yung takot ko pag nagpakasal kami. I should just trust him, right?

I tightened my hold on his warm hand. Sana ganitong Nathan lagi yung kasama ko.

Yes, I know. I'm having a cold-feet about our wedding. Natatakot akong nadissapoint na naturn-off. Basta. Halo-halong emotions. Hindi ko alam kung ano na talaga nararamdaman ko.

I want to trust Nathan na magiging ayos lang yung lahat. Pero di talaga mawala sa isip ko yung doubt and irritation.

Doubt kasi di ko alam kung mapagkakatiwalaan ko ba talaga si Nathan.

Irritation kasi baka topakin nanaman si Nathan at sumpungin.

Hay. Bahala na nga.

I just tightened my hold on his warm hands. The hands that can make me feel secure.

**

*Nathan's POV*

Nagising ako nung may humila sa kamay ko. Tapos naalala ko, natulog pala ako sa bedside ni ugly stick ng nakaupo.

It's still dark so alam kong gabi pa. Or madaling araw. Whichever.

Tinignan ko si ugly stick. She was still holding my hand tightly like she doesn't want to let go of me. I smiled. I like it when I see a dependent side of her. Especially when she's depending to ME. Hindi sa iba. Hindi dun sa matabang classmate namin dati na ka-close nya. Hindi kay Aaron na barkada nya. Hindi kay Sam na mukhang may gusto sa kanya. Gusto ko, sa akin lang sya dependent. Saakin lang.

I stared at her face. And before I can stop myself, I started to trace her eyebrows. Her eyes. Her nose and cheeks. Then her lips.

Naalala ko yung mga pagkakataon na hinahalikan ko sya. Her lips taste so sweet. Parang pinagsamasama lahat ng gusto kong pagkain. I never tasted that taste whenever I kiss other girls. Kay ugly stick lang. I guess that's the reason why I like kissing her.

And now, while staring at her face, at her lips, I have this uncontrollable desire to taste them again.

At wala naman syang ginagawa nyan ha! Natutulog lang sya!

Para lang akong baliw. Pero tuluyan akong mababaliw pag di ko sya hinalikan..

Aysht! Behave, you damn raging hormones!

I tried to calm myself and ignored my desire to kiss her. Pero may kumontra yung baliw na side ng utak ko.

But hey, mapapangasawa mo naman sya ah.

And so?! Para namang gusto nyo isa't isa?!

And so? Gusto mo naman sya halikan.

I know that, but..

Go na! Kiss her!

Baka magising!

Hindi! Kiss her!

But...

Oh, come on. Kiss her you idiot. I thought you're a cassanova? Ba't di mo sya mahalikan?

Ok, ok. But, a peck will do.

Whatever. Just kiss her!!!

At dahil sa sulsol ng baliw na part ng utak ko, nilapit ko yung face ko sa face nya.

Then, I kissed her.

I mean, it was just a peck, ok? It was just a peck.

She suddenly hugged my hand making me nervous. Nagising ko ata?!

...

...

Thank God, hindi. I smiled triumphantly.

I am so mischievous. Hehe.

Chapter 18: Bipolar!!!

"Waaaaaaaa!!!Dahan-dahan laaang!!!!" I yelled at Nathan. Ang bilis nya kasi eh. -_____-

"Hindi! Sige! Ako bahala."

"Wag kang papasok! Aaaaah! Aray! Sira ka talaga!"

"Masakit?"

"Ay hindi man! Sipain kaya kita?!" I yelled at him sarcastically. Ang kulit lang kasi eh! "Sabi ng wag pumasok, pumasok ka parin!"

He laughed. "Gusto ko eh?! Kumapit ka, bibilisan ko."

I grimaced. "Wag! Baka masaktan nanaman ako eh."

Pero di sya nakinig at binilisan pa lalo yung motor nya. Walangya tong lalaking to. Kanina pa ako muntik mahulog. Nung pumasok sya sa may eskinita, muntik akong mahulog. Tapos tinamaan pa ako ng kung ano. Tapos may dadaanan syang mga bato sa daan kaya napapatalon ako sa may likuran at nasasaktan pwet ko. -___-

Sorry naman. At nakuha pa talaga nyang tumawa. Sya kaya ihulog ko? Kaya ayoko sumakay sa motor nya eh. Kaya lang tinatamad daw sya magdrive. Papunta kami sa gagawa ng gown ko eh. Sabi ko naman kasi sayo, kumapit ka. Dont worry ugly stick. Malapit na tayo.

I hissed. Tapos, bigla syang huminto kaya nasubsob yung mukha ko sa likod nya. Badtriiip!!!

Baba na ugly stick. He told me. Tapos kinurot nya yung pisngi ko. Bigla tuloy parang kiniliti yung tiyan ko. xD

Padabog ako kunwari nung bumaba.Gusto mo na ata akong patayin. Kunwari lang ha? XD

He smirked sabay kindat sa akin. Puro pa-cute tong lalaking to ah?xD Di naman.

I glared at him (kunwari ulit, galit ako. xD) then pumasok na ako sa boutique nung gagawa ng gown ko. Ramp And Vow yung pangalan. Ang weird ng name.

Pagkapasok ko, nashock naman ako kasi, ANG GANDA SA LOOB!! And mukhang sikat nga tong boutique na to. Ang daming tao sa loob eh. Hindi lang naman pala puro gowns yung andito. May pang casuals din and I swear, they all look so gorgeous!

Welcome to Ramp and Vow, maam, sir! greeted the receptionist. May receptionist pa talaga.xD How may I help you?

Mag susukat daw sya ng gown, sagot ni handsome idiot na sumunod pala sa akin. Akala ko maghihintay lang sya sa labas eh.

I see, sir. May appointment po ba kayo kay ms. Ivond? asked the receptionist with a smile that never fades.

I shrugged. I think so.

Can I get your name maam? Para po ma-check ko if may appointment kayo with her. Medyo busy po kasi si ms. Ivond eh. The receptionist told us.

I nodded and gave her my name. Gianna Chloe Dizon.

Soon to be Gianna Chloe Dizon-Miguel. added Nathan. Feeling ko bumigat pisngi ko.

She smiled and nodded then checked her computer. Hi-tech ah.xD

Pardon me maam but, are you related to Sir Martin Miguel? she asked. I nodded. Oh! Sorry for the inconvenience maam. Pasok nalang po kayo sa office ni ms. Ivond. Shes waiting for you.

I gave her a smile tapos pumasok na kami ni handsome idiot sa office na sinabi ng receptionist. Ang masasabi ko lang pagkapasok ko ay, OHMEGAD. Siomai, ang ganda ng office na to?! May painting yung wall. As in yung mismong wall. Mural painting ata yung tawag don. Puro abstract yung design. Tapos, sa side, may naka-line na mga gowns na sobrang ganda. Baka mamimili ako ng isusuot ko dito? Waaaaaaaaaaaaa! Im so happy kung ganun!!

Oi ugly stick ko, tawag ni handsome idiot sa may likuran ko. Dito lang ako.

I nodded, not even bothering to look at him. I was too busy looking at the gowns.

Habang tinitignan ko yung mga gowns, may biglang lumapit sa akin na babae. Hmm. Try this.sabi nya tapos may inabot sa aking gown. Ito siguro yung ms. Ivond. Ok. Ang ganda nya lang. Pati damit, ang ganda.

Pinagtulakan nya ako sa isang dressing room. Tinignan ko muna yung gown bago ko tinanggal yung damit ko at isinuot yung gown.

Siomai! Sakto sa akin!!!

Lumabas ako ng dressing room para pakita kay ms. Ivond yung gown kaya lang,paglabas ko, si Nathan na nagbabasa ng magazine lang yung andun.

Asan si Ivond? I asked him.

I dunno. He looked up and stared at me.

Oha! Ano ka ngayon handsome idiot! Ang ganda ng katawan ko no! Mwahahahahaha!!!!!

Fitting kasi yung gown. Actually, dress lang sya pero peacock style. Mahaba sa may likod. Tapos one shoulder lang sya. May mga folds sya sa may bandang chest level hanggang sa may waist ko tapos, yung ilalim, may stitches na feeling ko ay flowers. I think its simple yet beautiful.

Feeling ko bagay talaga sa akin itong gown na to. Ano ka ngayon ha handsome idiot? Bwahahaha!

Mukha kang maliit.

Hahahahaha?! Walangya tong lalaking to! >_<

Hindi naman yan ang wedding gown nya, dont worry. Sabi nung tao sa may pintuan. Si ms. Ivond pala. Do you think hahayaan kitang makita ang wedding gown nya? Thats a big no.

Ay. Akala ko pa naman, ito na yung gown ko. xD

Ms. Ivond smiled. Pinasuot ko lang sa kanya yan kasi trip ko. Walang basagan ng trip. She chuckled tapos lumapit sa akin na may hawak hawak na parang ruler na mahaba. Medida ata tawag dun. Nalimutan ko na. Come here, Gianna. Susukatan kita. And you, Nathaniel, isukat mo yung damit dun sa may dressing room na kulay blue.

Surprisingly, sumunod si Nathan ng walang reklamo. Kaya lang bago sya pumasok sa dressing room, lumapit muna sya sa akin.

Pangetmo, ugly stick ko. bulong nya.

I gritted my teeth. Natawa naman si Ivond.

Relax lang, Gi. Wag kang papastress. Relax lang.

Close kayo no? Ivond commented.

I rolled my eyes. Lagi nga kaming nag-aaway eh.

She chuckled. Sabi nga sa akin ni sir Martin.

Pano mo pala nakilala si lolo? I asked.

Grandmother ko yung gumawa ng wedding gown ni maam Clara dati.

Clara? As in si lola Clara? wow. Ang ganda kaya nung gown ni lola Clara. Nakita ko sa picture.

She nodded. I stared at her in amazement habang sinusukatan nya ako. Di na sya nagsalita so di na rin ako nagsalita. Mukhang focused sya sa ginagawa nya eh.

Pagkatapos akong sukatan, pinaupo nya nalang ako para hintayin si handsome idiot.Ang tagal nya kasi eh.

Di ko ipapakita yung design sayo, Ivond told me. Para surprise. Haha. And I think bagay na bagay sa iyo yun. Lalo kang gaganda.

Sheeeeet. Lalo daw akong gaganda! Excited na tuloy ako magpakasal kay handsome idiot! Wahahaha!

I grinned at her. Talaga?Hahaha.Nakaka-excite naman!

She smiled at me then left the room.

Kaya eto ako ngayon. Alone and lonely. Charot! Ang tagal ng lalaking yon! Kakain pa kami sa labas eh. Nagpapalibre ng ice cream. Parang bata lang na naghahanap ng ice cream. Pinuyat ko daw. Tss.

5 minutes..

10 minutes..

15 minutes..

Shet! Ang tagal nya!! Pupuntahan ko na sya!!

Irritated, I recklessly entered the dressing room and found him wearing a tuxedo while staring at his phone. Sht! He looks so dmn handsome!

O-oi! I called him. Waaaaaaaa! Im stuttering! >_<

Ha?

Ang tagal mo!

Ah ganun ba. Sorry. He said. Tapos tinanggal nya yung coat nya.

Oi teka! Anong balak mo, maghubad sa harap ko? Adik ka ba!? I yelled at him.

He gave me an are-you-kidding look. Adik!Eh di lumabas ka!

I hissed then lumabas na ako ng dressing room para hintayin sya.

***

Akala ko ba ice cream? Bat fishball hinahanap mo? I complained at handsome idiot. Kasi naman, kanina pa kami ikot ng ikot kakahanap nnya ng fishball. Parang baeng naglilihi lang eh. =___=

Gusto ko nun eh. Wag ka ng madada. he told me tapos hinila nanaman ako. Kanina pa sya hila ng hila sa akin. Ayokona kasing maglakad eh.

I pulled him to stop, Nathan masakit na paa ko. Kanina pa tayo naglalakad.

Tinitigan nya yung paa ko. Nakasandals ako eh. Pero medyo namumula na yung paa ko at malapit ng magkapaltos. T__T

Darn! Sorry, sorry. Sorry talaga ugly stick ko.

Hindi, sige, ok lang. I smiled at him. Ewan eh. Natouch ako nung magsorry sya sa akin. tara, hanapin na natin yung nagtitinda ng fishball.

Sure ka? he frowned. I nodded. Ayokong masaktan ka, ugly stick ko,

Shit! Hes flattering the hell out of me!!!

I bit my lip tapos naglakad kami ulit para maghanap ng fishball. Naglilihi kasi tong kasama ko eh. Habang tinitiis ko yung irritation ng paa ko, sulyap naman ng sulyap sa akin si Nathan na parang inaabangan akong tumigil maglakad o ano. Nakakatouch talaga. Minsan lang magkaganyan si handsome idiot. :>

Bigla syang huminto kaya pati ako napahinto. O bakit? I asked.

Tanggalin mo yang sandals mo. He told me.

Bakit naman?

Basta, tapos, yumuko sya at sya na mismo yung nagtanggal ng sandals ko. Nagulat naman ako nung tanggalin din nya yung sapatos nya. Suot mo to. He told me, giving me his shoes.

Sure ka? Anong isusuot mo?

Sandals mo. Dejoke. He grinned. Ako bahala.

Tapos, sinuot nya sa akin yung sapatos nya. I bit my lip. I cant believe that this guy can be so thoughtful and reliable! *tears of joy*

Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!! Thank you, Nathan! I said tapos yinakap ko sya dahil sa tuwa. Masaya ako eh! Biruin mo yun!? May natatago palang pagka-gentleman si handsome idiot?!?! xD

May bayad yan. Libre mo akong lunch, he grinned.

I made a face but smiled. Grabe. Sana talaga mapadalas yung pagiging ganito ni Nathan. :D

We continued on searching for fishball around. Dala-dala nya yung sandals ko. Sya pa talaga yung nag-alok na magdala. Ohmegad.Umulan ba ng milagro kagabi?! Walang halong biro! Si Nathan ba talaga to? Baka alien nanaman to! Oh well. As long as mabait sya, wala na ako pakielam. xD

Unfortunately, wala kaming nakitang nagtitinda ng fishball. Well, what do you expect? Halos 11 AM palang kaya ng umaga! xD

Tara, Nathan. Kain nalang tayong lunch. yaya ko. Tapos nuod tayo cine. Libre ko.

Ows? he snickered. I punched him lightly on his shoulder. Pasalamat sya, mabait sya ngayon. XD

Oo nga.Tara na. I smiled. He smiled back tapos naglakad na kami pabalik kung saan nya p-inark yung motor nya.

Habang naglalakad kami, bigla nyang kinuha yung phone nya.May message ata.

Bigla syang napahinto nung nabasa nya yung message.

Napano ka? I asked.

Napatingin sya sa akin. W -wala.

I frowned. Bat parang nawala sya sa sarili? Ok lang ba tong lalaking to?

Ok ka lang ba? no response. Nakatingin lang sya sa phone nya. Uy. Ok ka lang? Ha, Nathan?

Wala paring response kaya kinulit ko na sya. Ano kaya yung text message na yun? Uy Nathan? Ok k--

Wala nga to.Pilit nya.Pero parang namutla sya eh.

Sure ka ba?

Gosh. Will you shut up?!

Aba! Tama bang sigawan ako!?!? Oi lalaki!Concerned lang naman ako!

Wag ka nga sabing makulit di ba?!

Huh! At sya pa talaga ngayon ang galit! Eh di wag akong makulit! Bahala ka nga dyan! Aalis na ako! Nakakawala ka ng gana! Akala ko matino ka na! Bwisit kang bipolar ka!!!!!!

After ko syang sigawan, iniwan ko na sya. Nakakainis sya!! Sobrang naiinis ako sa inasta nya! Akala ko talaga, maayos na kami kasi kanina pang pagising ko, matino na kaming nag-uusap. Wala ng sigawan! Tapos ngayon, may nabasa lang syang text, nagkaganyan na sya?! Ano to?! Lokohan!? Pinagtitripan ako!? Pakshet naman!!! Gag* talaga sya kahit kalian!!! Pakamatay na sya!!! Walangya sya!!! Nakakabwisit sya!!! Ahsdhjkahjkshjksdfhjksdfhjjhfjsdhajdasfjkasfasjkghjkahs!! Nadala pa naman ako sa kanya!! Badtrip talaga!! Bahala syang ayusin ang kasal nya!! Bipolar na penguin!!!

Chapter 19: Found You :) Inis pa rin ako nung naka-uwi ako sa bahay. Ni hindi ko pinansin si manang Lorna nung nakasalubong ko sya. Sino ba naman kasing hindi maiinis sa inasta ni handsome idiot?! May nareceive lang na text message, biglang sinumpong ng topak. Badtrip sya! Argh!!

Hi, Gi! Denice greeted me when I entered the living room.

I grunted in response tapos nag tuloy-tuloy sa 2nd floor.

Teka

Si Denice yun ah!!

Bigla ulit akong napalingon sa may sala at nakita si Denice na nakatingin sa akin.

Denice!! I screamed tapos patakbo akong bumaba ng hagdan. Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!! I missed you!!

She laughed. Grabe! Namiss ko yung tunog ng tawa ng babaeng to! Magpapakasal ka lang, naging busy kana! Hahaha!

Baliw! I hugged her tightly. Baka busy nanakikipag-away kay Nathan! Hahaha. O nasan na yung dalawa?

Looking for us, Gi? someone asked. Lumingon ako sa pinanggalingan ng boses.

Aaron! I smiled. Tapos lumabas din si Ashley galling sa dining room. Baklaaaaaa!

Walangya ka bakla, said Ashley tapos yinakap ako. Yinakap ko din sya. Namiss ko tong baklang to. xD Tagal mong di nagparamdam. Tapos agad ka pa umuwi nung may pinasabog itongsi Aaron kay baklang Denice!

I laughed. Grabe. Super saya ko! Nawala yung inis ko. Who cares about Nathan? Andito naman mga friends ko para pasiyahin ako. :>

Eh kasi naman eh. Hahaha. I said. Basta! Namiss ko kayo!

Sorry, bakla. Di kita namiss. Ashley said.

I pouted. Pinagtawanan naman kami ng dalawang lovebirds.

Charot lang bakla! Ashley added tapos sinugod ako at niyakap ulit. xD

Akala ko totoo na eh! I told Ashley while laughing. Papalayasin sana kita. Hahaha.

Mga bata, kumain na muna kayo ng tanghalian. Tawag ni manang Lorna sa amin.

Opo! sagot naman namin tapos pumunta na kami sa dining room.

Pag dating namin sa dining room, agad pinaupo ni Aaron si Denice at pinagsilbihan. Ewan pero, bigla akong nainggit. Ang sarap siguro sa pakiramdam kung yung mahal mo, mahal ka din. Yung willing gawin kahit ano para sayo.Yung papasayahin kapag malungkot ka. Yung tanggap ka kahit ano ka pa. Yung mahal ka kasi mahal ka lang nya. Kasi di ba, wala naming dahilan pag nagmahal ka? Basta bigla mo nalang mararamdaman na mahal mo sya. Yun na yun. Yung nasapol na ni Cupid yung puso mo at yung puso nung mahal mo. Gusto kong ma-experience

yun. Gustong-gusto ko. Pero, magkaroon kaya akong chance na maramdaman yun kahit kasal na ako sa taong hindi ko mahal?

Oi bakla! Nanahimik ka dyan! pukaw sa akin ni Ashley. I just smiled tapos, kumain na kami.

**

I smiled as I watch my bestfriends laugh and talk. Namiss ko tong mga baliw na to. Kasi kahit na kasama ko sina Destiny, Sam, Vince and Renz sa bago kong school, iba pa rin pag kami-kami nila Ashley. Matagal ko na rin kasi silang kasama at kaibigan eh.

Pumasok bigla sa isip ko yung bestfriend konung bata ako. Asan na kaya sya? Hay.

Ashley, Gianna, tawag ni ate Beth sa may pintuan. May naghahanap sa inyo.

Sino po? I asked.

Tena at papasukin ko na.Kaklase mo raw sya, Gianna. Destiny raw. Sagot naman ni ate Beth tapos pinapasok na si Destiny.

Ohmegaaaad!! Ashleeeeeeeeeeeeey!! she screamed tapos sinugod si Ashley at niyakap.

Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!!!!!!! My flawless body!!! Waaaaaaaaaa!! Lumayo ka sa beauty ko!!! tili naman ni Ashley habang pilit tinatanggal yung pagkakayakap ni Destiny sa kanya. xD

Tawa naman ako ng tawa kasama sina Denice at Aaron. Sobra kasing higpit ng pagkakayakap ni Destiny kay Ashley kaya hindi makawala si Ashley.

Anebe, girl! Hindi tayo talo! Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa! sigaw ulit ni Ashley. Gianna! Help meeeee! Nire-rape ako!! Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!

Hahaha! Kaya mo yan Ashley! I laughed.

Ganda ng surprise ko sayo no, Ashley? Haha. sabi ni Aaron habang tumatawa.

Maging Ash ka na kasi at wag ng Ashley. dagdag pa ni Denice. xD

Oo nga naman kasi Ashley. Para maging tayo. Sabi ni Destiny tapos binitiwan na si Ashley. Ayoko namang masuffocate ang pinakamamahal ko. At nagpacute pa si Des. xD

Ashley gave Des a WTF look. xD Yuuuck. Kadiri ka bakla.

Ah, basta! Ill make you fall for me! Destiny said with a voice full of determination. Sya ng patay na patay kay Ashley! Sya na! XD

Tawanan pa rin kami habang pinapanuod sina Ashley and Destiny. Kasi kahit saan pumwesto si Ashley, sumusunod si Destiny. Tapos asikasong-asikaso nya si Ashley. Si Ashley naman, kulang nalang, magbigti na kapag yinayakap sya ni Destiny. xD

Hey, Destiny, tawag ni Aaron. Gusto mo bang makita si Ashley nung highschool kami?

Waaaaa!!Tumigil ka, Aaron!!! sigaw naman ni Ashley kaya natawa kami nila Denice. XD

Oo sige!!! sagot naman ni Destiny.

Halos magwala na si Ashley nung kunin ni Aaron yung photo album ko ng mga class pictures ko. Tapos nung pinakita ni Aaron yung pictures namin nung 4th year high school kami, nanahimik bigla si Destiny. Tapos after a few moments, nagtititili. Yung tili pagkinikilig! Tapos inagaw nya pa yung photo album kay Aaron at umupo sa isang tabi at nanahimik! Hahahaha.

Walangya ka Aaron. Pinahamak mo aketch. reklamo ni Ashley kay Aaron.

Denice smiled. Bat ba kasi hindi ka na lang naging Ash. Haha.

Inirapan lang ni Ashley yung dalawang mag-love birds. Tapos biglang tumayo at tumakbo sa 2nd floor nung lumapit si Destiny. Natakot.xD

Gi, may tanong ako. Sabi ni Des paglapit nya.

Ano? I smiled.

Section 3 ka nung elementary ka? she asked.

I nodded. Bakit?

She smiled. Classmate mo si Sam.

Ha?

Classmate mo si Sam nung elementary ka,

Huh? Bat di ko alam?

Haha. May tanong pa ako, Gi, sabi ni Destiny. Tapos tinuro nya yung classmate ko sa class picture ko nung elementary. Yung bestfriend ko noon na mataba at lagi ring iniinis. Kilala mo to?

I shook my head. I forgot his name but hes my very bestfriend.

Naalala ko nanaman sya. Habang tinititigan ko yung picture, I cant stop myself but feel nostalgic. Sya lang kasi yung dumamay sa akin nung ginagawang hell ni handsome idiot yung elementary life ko. I kinda like him, too. As in. Ang alam ko, crush ko sya eh. xD

Didnt you know? asked Des. This kid is Sam.

I stared at her with wide eyes. Holy crap. I found him.

**

Pag wala tayong pasok, pumupunta si Sam sa dati nyong school. Baka daw kasi makita nya yung hinahanap nyang girl. I know that that girl was you when I saw your picture. Kasi tinuro kanya sa akin nung pinakita nya yung ganito nyang picture.

Iniisip ko pa rin hanggang ngayon yung bilin sa akin ni Des. God. I cant believe that Sam was my bestfriend in elementary! Crush din pala. xD

Im walking around my old school, searching for Sam. Sana andito pa sya. Sana talaga.

Habang naglalakad, napadaan ako sa may playground. Dito ako madalas awayin ni Nathan. Tapos dito rin nya inaaway yung mga lumalapit sa akin. Naalala ko tuloy nung minsang paiyakin ako ni Nathan, inaway ni Sam si Nathan nun. As in pinagtulakan nya si Nathan palayo sa akin! Tapos, nung di na lumapit si Nathan sa akin nung araw na yun, yinakap ako ni Sam habang umiiyak. Naaalala ko pa yung conversation namin nun eh.

B-bakit ka umiiyak? I asked while crying.

K-kasi umiiyak ka! Waaaa! he answered then hugged me.

W-wag kang u-umiyak. I told him while wiping my tears.

He nodded then wiped his tears. I-ikaw din, wag kang iiyak. Promise ko sayo. Hinding hindi ka iiyak pag kasama mo ako.

I nodded then gave him a watery smile.

And pag kasama ko nga sya, I never cried. Kahit pag inaaway ako ni handsome idiot, hindi ako umiiyak pag kasama sya. May sarili kaming mundo non. Wala kaming pakielam kahit walang lumalapit sa amin. Basta magkasama kami, ayos na kami.

Found you, a voice said behind me.

I slowly turned and found the one I was looking for smiling at me. Where have you been all this time? I was looking for you.

He scratched his head like he was thinking of a good answer. I was looking for you, too. Nagkasalisihan tayo. But now, I found you.

I smiled then cried. Im so happy because I found my childhood bestfriend na walang ginawa noong bata kami kundi pagtanggol ako at pasiyahin. Happiness is overflowing out of me that I cant stop myself from crying.

O? bat kaumiiyak? Sam asked tapos yinakap ako. Didnt I tell you that I will never let you cry when youre with me?

S-sorry. I told him. Namiss lang kita. Sobra.

Parang di tayo magkasama sa school ah. Haha. He chuckled.

Iba pa rin nung nalaman kong ikaw yung bestfriend ko. I said.

He shrugged. I guess so.

And with that, we walked around the school while talking about all the things that we did here before.

**

*1 month later*

Its been a month since I found out that Sam was my childhood bestfriend. At simula non, lagi na kaming magkasama. Masn aging close pa nga kami lalo eh. At ngayon nga, last day ng pasukan namin. After this day, Christmas vacation na! Excited na ako for Christmas. Pati na rin sa birthday ko! Ay. Scratch that. After pala ng birthday ko, kasal namin ni handsome idiot. Anyway, eto kami ngayon, nagpaplano ng magandang gawin sa vacation. Hindi naman kasi kami halatang excited eh. Hindi talaga.

And speaking of kasal. Hindi ako tumulong sa pagprepare ng kasal ko. Hinayaan ko lang si Nathan and lolo na asikasuhin yon. Ang kailangan ko lang gawin ay mamili ng isusuot ng mga bridesmaid, etc. at tapos na yun so ang kailangan nalang gawin ay um-attend sa rehearsal (bat ba kasi kailangan pa ng rehearsal?! Basta makapag-I do lang ako, ayos na yun eh!) at sa mismong wedding ko.

Drop everything now. Meet me in the pouring rain. Kiss me on the side walk, take away the pain.

I excused myself to Destiny and the others then left the cafeteria and took my phone out to see who was calling.

Calling Lolo Martin

Bat kaya napatawag si lolo?Kukulitin nanaman siguro akong makipagbati na kay Nathan. Ever since kasi nung nalaman nyang nag-away kami ni Nathan at di nagpapansinan, kinukulit na nya ako.

I sighed then answered the call. Yes, lo?

Bati na kayo ni Nathan? salubong nya agad sa akin.

I sighed. Lolo naman eh,

One week nalang, kasal nyo na.Pansinin mo na sya. Lolo said from the other line.

Ill think about it. I said.

I heard him sigh from the other line. Ok, ok. By the way, Gi, photoshoot nyo bukas.

Its my turn to sigh now. Fine, fine.

O sige. Yun lang tinawag ko. Lolo said. Take care, hone.

Opo. I said then ended the call.

I stared at my phone. Ang bilis ng panahon. Parang kalian lang nung piniramahan ko yung contract. Ngayon, one week nalang, ikakasal na ako. Hay.

I turned and bumped to someone. Tumingala ako at nakita si Sam.

Found you. He smiled. I smiled back. I almost forgot. No matter what happens, our friends will always be there for us. Thats what friends are for, right? :)

Chapter 20: Let's act like we're inlove.

"Move closer to Gianna, Nathan." the photographer instructed. "Be a little sweeter. Come on now, guys."

I pouted as Nathan came closer to me.

"Smile, Gianna," the photographer called. "Be more natural."

I smiled forcedly. Kabaligtaran ng sinabi nyang 'be more natural'.

"Gianna, be more natural." sabi ulit nung photographer.

I forced myself to smile naturally. Alam ko halata paring pilit yung smile ko. Napabuntong hininga kasi yung photographer.

"Let's take a break, shall we?" sabi nung photographer. I nodded.

Photoshoot namin ngayon ni handsome idiot. Halata naman di ba? Nakaka-ilang shots na rin kami.

I sighed. Tapos tumayo na ako sa kinauupuan ko. Si handsome idiot naman, nakatayo lang tapos tinitignan ako. Kutusin ko ata tong hinayupak na handsome idiot na to eh.

I ignored him tapos pahirapang pumunta ako sa tent na ginawang dressing room. Nandito kami sa isang field which was covered with green grass. Sa malayo, may makikita kang light house and a lake. It was a gorgeous day. The sky was painted in blue and the sun was covered with clouds. It was a cloudy day so hindi masyado mainit. Actually, mahangin pa nga.

"Oi ugly stick."

I turned and saw Nathan at the entrance.

I rolled my eyes and ignored him. Tapos kinuha ko yung phone ko sa bag ko. Ka-text ko kasi si Destiny and Sam. Nalaman kasi ni Destiny na ikakasal ako kay handsome idiot kaya ayun, kinukulit ako. Ikwento ko daw kung ano nangyari at papakasalan ko si Nathan. Sabi ko naman sa kanya, wag ipagsabi lalo na sa mga schoolmates namin.

1 message received. From: Sam :)

I opened the message with a frown. Sabi ko kasi kay Sam, text ko nalang sya mamaya.

Hi cupcake. Labas tayo mamaya? Wait ko reply mo. ;)

I chuckled. Maraming tawag sa akin si Sam. Nung minsan nga, tinawag akong lollipop. Ngayon naman cupcake. Ginawa akong pagkain. xD

"Oi ugly stick." tawag ulit ni handsome idiot. "Tumatawa ka mag-isa dyan. Mukha kang baliw."

I gave him a leave-me-alone look tapos lumabas na ako ng tent at nireplyan si Sam.

To: Sam :) Sure sure. Haha. Lunch ha? See you. :*

I pressed send then bumalik na ako sa pwesto ko. Yung naka-upo ako sa upuan tapos malapit si handsome idiot.

"Ok ka na?" tanong nung photographer. I smiled. "Game na tayo ha?"

I nodded tapos hinayaan ko nalang nung lumapit si Nathan. Wala na akong pakielam. Basta agad na matapos tong photoshoot na to.

We made a lot of poses. May naka-piggy back ride ako kay handsome idiot. May buhat-buhat nya ako. May nakayakap ako sa kanya. May hinahalikan nya pisngi ko. May kinukurot ko yung pisngi nya. Marami pa. Baka umabot ako ng bukas kaka-isip nung iba pa.

At kahit mukha kaming sweet sa mga pictures, it was just an act. Di naman alam ng iba na may pinirmahan lang kaming contract ni handsome idiot kaya kailangan daw namin magmukhang sweet. Di ko parin sya kinakausap. Ewan eh. Masama loob pa rin loob ko sa kanya eh. Ewan ko naman bakit di ko sya mapatawad. Siguro kasi naniwala ako sa kanya na matino na sya tapos dahil sa isang text, nagkatopak.

"And, that's a wrap!" sabinung photographer.

Waaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!! Finally!!! Tapos na kami!! Nyanyanya. xD

Nagmadali akong pumasok ng tent at nagbihis. Usapan kasi namin ni Sam, lunch kami magkikita. Eh malapit ng mag-lunch kaya nagmamdali ako. Pagkabihis na pagkabihis ko,

lumabas na ako agad ng tent at hinayaan na sila. Bahala na si handsome idiot dyan. Kasal nya yan. Syang mag-asikaso.

"Ugly stick," tawag nya sa akin nung nakasalubong ko sya. "May sasab--"

"Oh, who cares. Leave me alone." I yelled at him then iniwan na sya. Bastusan kung bastusan pero ayoko talaga syang kausapin. Ni hindi man nga nagsorry sa akin eh! Peste sya. Sarap pamassacre!

**

"Sa'n mo gusto kumain, cupcake?" tanong ni Sam habang naglalakad kami.

Nag-isip ako saglit habang naglalakad kami sa mall. "Hmm. Tara kain tayo Tokyo Tokyo."

"Eh? Ba't dun? Mapaparami kain ko."

I giggled. "Baliw. Matagal ka ng napaparami ng kain. Pasalamat ka at di ka agad tumataba ngayon."

"Gwapo ko kasi eh."

"HAHAHAHAHAHA. Di naman mahangin dito eh no?"

"Ang sama mo strawberry."

"Ano ba yan. Dami mo tawag sa akin! Puro pagkain."

He smiled. "Kasi kahit pagsama-samahin lahat ng fave foods ko, ikaw parin ang pipiliin ko,"

I frowned. "Anong connect?"

"Kumbaga sa pagkain, ikaw lahat ng fave foods ko!"

I laughed. "Baliw!"

He just winked at me. Tapos hinila na nya ako papuntang Tokyo Tokyo. I love hanging out with Sam. Parang wala akong problema pag kasama sya. Di tulad ni Nathan na lahat ata ng problema sa mundo ay pasan ko pag kasama sya.

Tss. Why the hell am I comparing them with each other?

"Strawberry cupcake, hanap ka na ng mauupuan. Order na ako." Sam told me. "Ano gusto mo?"

"Tempura na lang. And red ice tea, ha?" I said.

He smiled and nodded. I smiled back at him tapos pumasok na sa may loob. Sa may entrance kasi yung counter kung saan ka mag-oorder.

Pumwesto ako malapit sa counter. Para makita ako agad ni Sam. Sandali naman, nakapagorder sya. Papunta na sya sa pwesto namin nung napansin kong nakatingin sa kanya lahat ng babae. Wala eh. Gwapo kasi bestfriend ko! Nyahahaha!!

"Cupcake, 8 minutes pa daw yung tempura," he said tapos umupo sa tapat ko. Napansin ko nga, mas gwapo ata sya ngayon. Blooming? Charot. XD "Sabi ko, ok lang."

I nodded. "Ok lang sige."

Tapos, nagsmile sya sa akin. Napansin ko talaga, sinusulyapan sya ng lahat ng mga babae! xD

"Sam o. Pinapanuod ka lahat ng mga babae." I told him.

"Gwapo eh."

"Kapal. Hahaha."

"Nakakasawa rin kaya pag lagi kang tinitignan. Minsan nga, gusto ko nalang bumalik sa katawan ko nung bata tayo eh." he told me tapos pinaglaruan yung nakapatong na number sa table. "Kaya lang, sayang naman yung katawan ko. Yung 6 pack ko. Yung biceps ko. You know."

I giggled. "Di talaga mahangin dito no?"

He laughed. Tapos lumipat sya sa tabi ko. "Halika ka nga dito cupcake. Inggitin natin sila. Hehehehe." sabi nya tapos pinatong yung kamay nya sa balikat ko. Tumawa nalang ako. Baliw talaga tong lalaking to. Alam ko mukha kaming magboyfriend. Pero syempre, bestfriend ko lang talaga sya. Ayos lang sa akin yung ganito kami. Komportable naman ako kay Sam eh.

But at that moment, I suddenly caught a glimpse of the least person I was expecting to see.

Nathan.

Lalo akong nainis sa kanya sa nakikita ko.

MAY KALANDIAN NANAMAN SYANG OCTO PUSIT AT NASA PUBLIC PLACE NYAN SILA HA?!

Tss. Nakakahiya sila! Nakakahiya naman si octo pusit! Babae pa naman. Tapos yung handsome idiot na yun!! Aaargh!! Papakasalan ko yan?! Yang walang hiyang yan?! Grabe naman. WTFFF.

"Something wrong, cupcake?" tanong ni Sam.

I shook my head then forced a smile, "Wala."

He smiled then pinched my nose. "If there's anything that's wrong, tell me, ok?"

I nodded. But, you know what, Sam? Everything that includes Nathan is wrong. The marriage. The arrangement. It's all wrong.

**

I paced back and forth as I wait for my bridal car. It's the big day. Yep. You know. The big day.

I'm all set. Suot ko na yung wedding gown ko na gawa ni Ivond. Iba sya sa sinuot ko nung photoshoot.

"Bakla, relax." paalala sa akin ni Ashley. Sya kasi kasama ko dito sa bahay na maghihintay sa bridal car. And, shocks. Nagsuot sya ng coat and tie just for this day. And in fairness, gwapo pala si Ashley pag lalaki. Kaya siguro patay na patay si Des dito. XD

I sighed. "Eh kasi naman eh bakla. Ang alam ng mgba bisita namin, inlove kami ni handsome idiot sa isa't isa kaya gusto ni lolo, mukha talaga kaming in love."

"O anong problema don, bakla?" tanong ni Ashley.

I rolled my eyes. "Bakla, di pa kami bati ng hinayupak na yun."

"Bakit naman? It's been a month, bakla."

"So? Ni hindi man sya nag-sorry."

"Walangya ka bakla. Yang pride mo ha."

I groaned. "Ay basta. "

"Ay nako bakla. Pano nyo nyan maipapakita na mahal na mahal nyo ang isa't isa?" he asked. Tapos tumayo sya sa kinauupuan nya at inayos yung veil ko.

"Bahala na." sabi ko nalang. Napailing nalang si Ashley.

Bahala na talaga. Nung nakaraang araw, kinausap ako ni lolo. Pinakiusapan na makipagbati na kay handsome idiot. Pero nung sinabi kong ayoko, iniba nya yung pinakikiusap nya. Mag-act nalang daw kami na inlove kami kunwari. Kasi kahiya-hiya naman daw sa pari at mga bisita kung magpapakasal daw kami ni handsome idiot tapos halatang walang feelings.

"Bakla, ayan na yung bridal car." tawag ni Ashley.

I nodded tapos sumakay na ako ng bridal car sa tulong ni Ashley. Mahaba kasi yung gown ko eh. xD

The journey (journey talaga eh. parang ang layo ng pinanggalingan. xD)to the venue was a quiet one. Hawak lang ni Ashley yung kamay ko. Kinakabahan kasi talaga ako. Sa sobrang kaba ko, ngayon ko lang naalala na birthday pala namin ni handsome idiot!

Happy birthday sa akin.

happy birthday handsome idiot.

=____=

Pagdating ko sa venue, I can't help but be amazed. Oh, gawd. Ang ganda ng venue! May greek columns sa dinadaanan namin na covered ng vines. Tapos, kahit saan ka tumingin, puro flowers. Name it, they've got it. Poison ivy lang ata wala. Ajejeje.

Garden wedding kasi pinili ko. Ayaw ko talaga sa simbahan. Baka sunugin kami ni Bro eh. Magpapakasal ng walang love? baka nga di man kami makapasok sa loob ng simbahan eh!

Paghinto namin, unang lumabas si Ashley para iinform na dumating na ako. Tapos, after a few moments, sinundo na ako ni lolo. Sya kasi maghahatid sa akin sa built-in altar.

And he was so happy that I feel so guilty already. Sana mapakita ko na inlove ako kunwari kay handsome idiot.

I stepped out of the car then lined with the entourage. Nag-start na yung music. Unang naglakad yung mga flower girls ba yun. Mga bata eh. Di ko kilala so baka kamag-anak ng business partner ni lolo. Tapos si Denice and Aaron naman yung sumunod. Bridesmaid and bestman. (ewan ba't napapayag si handsome idiot na maging bestman si Aaron. xD) Tapos, ohmaygass, kjhsdfkgasdhjaglghgasjhsjsdjklsdfhlsadhasdhjk. Kami na ni lolo. Waaaaaaaa! I'm so kinakabahan! As in. Di ko alam gagawin ko. Peo nagrehearse naman kami kaya alam ko. Ay ang gulo lang. xD

When I stepped on the red carpet, naamaze lang ako. Ang ganda kasi ng lugar! Sobra. It looks like a fairytale. Ang daming flowers. I can even smell their sweet scent in the air. Tapos may mga butterflies pa na lumilipad-lipad. And habang papalapit ako sa may altar, parang may napansin akong pond sa may side. And... Wait... May swan sila! Isang pair! Ang sweet lang. Ang ganda talaga ng place! Sobra! Nasa fairytale ata ako!!

Paglapit namin kay Nathan, I can't help but stare at him. He's... He's... Oh, jeez. How can he be so damn handsome?! Iba yung pagkagwapo nya. Hindi usual look nya! Parang may gentle aura na pumapalibot sa kanya!

Nagmano muna si Nathan kay lolo bago kinuha kamay ko. Tradition ata yun eh.

"Take care of her, Nathan." bilin ni lolo tapos binigay yung kamay ko kay Nathan. Tapos tinapik nya yung balikat at umupo.

He faced and smiled at me. I was about to smile at him when he did something that made me irritated.

"Galingan mo mag-acting." he mouthed.

I hissed at myself. Akala ko matino sya. Acting lang pala yung katinuan.

I smiled sweetly at him like I was inlove then I mouthed something.

"I hate you, you damn idiot."

Chapter 21: Light in the dark. :)

"You may now kiss the bride." said the priest.

We turned to each other then, Nathan lifted my veil slowly. I unconsciously swallowed.

Bigla akong naconscious. Naman kasi eh. Eto yung first time na hahalikan ako ni handsome idiot na alam ko. Hindi yung biglaan.

He came closer to my face, his eyes staring into my eyes.

Gawd, he looks...

Handsome.

Tell me, is that even possible when he's only about to kiss me!?

Nung feeling kong matutunaw na ako sa titig ni Nathan, I closed my eyes and anticipated the kiss.

Our lips met for only a moment but it's enough for me to taste the sweetness of his lips and feel the softness of it that made my stomach flip over. Oh, this is crazy. XD

When I opened my eyes, he was already looking at the guests.

After non, marami pang kung anu-ano. Picture taking. Lumapit mga nag-congratulate. Bolahan at kung anu-ano pa. Basta nung hinagis ko na yung bouquet ko, na-surprise kami lahat kung kanino napunta.

Sa isang flower girl na feeling ko ay 7 years old palang. XD

Pati nga yung bata eh. Nagulat. Tinititigan lang yung bouquet sa lap nya. Tapos may lumapit sa kanyang batang lalaki.

"Hahaha! Ikakasal ka na nyan!" ininis nung batang lalaki sa batang babae. xD "Ikakasal ka na kay Jeric!"

"Hindi!!! Sayo ako ikakasal!" siga naman nung batang babae.

Ay shet. xD

"Teka..." I mumbled. "Counted ba sya? Paano naman yung garter?"

"Kunin mo! Ibato mo kay Denice!" bulong naman sa akin ni Nathan.

I snobbed him pero lumapit ako sa dun sa dalawang bata.

"Hi kids." I greeted them.

"Hi po," sabi nung flower girl.

"Hello ate." sabi naman nung batang lalaki.

I smiled at them. Tapos humarap ako sa girl. "Paano nyan? You're not allowed to get married since you're both kids." the girl pouted. Natawa naman yung mga nanunuod sa amin. "Here's what you're ganna do. Give that flower to that pretty ate." I pointed Denice tapos I pinched the girl's cheeks. "Then, be good and grow up as a wonderful girl."

The girl smiled after hearing that tapos she kissed my cheeks then ran to Denice.

Hinarap ko yung batang lalaki. "And ikaw, don't tease her to much ha? She might get angry."

He stucked his tongue out. "She's crazy inlove to me!"

The guests laughed. Really. saan natututunan ng mga batang to yung mga pinagsasabi nila? xD

I just smiled at him. "You know kid, you can never predict the future. Maybe, she likes you today. But, who knows what will happen when you're both adults? Ikaw din. Baka magsisi ka." I chuckled then patted his head then headed back to Nathan who was waiting for me. Pansin ko lang ha. Pinapanuod pala ako ng lahat ng mga bisita. xD

"Talking about experiences, mrs. Miguel?" he teased.

"Oh, shut up." I told him.

He did shut up. Then we all headed to the reception. Akala mo naman malayo yung reception eh. But actually, nasa may other side lang nung pond eh. xD

The reception venue was more amazing. Maraming butterflies yung nakapalibot at lumilipad. May parang mga vines pa na nakaayos sa mga columns. Tapos yung pond, mas maganda pag malapitan. Yung 2 swan, ang sweet sa isa't isa. Tapos may mga rose petals na nakapalibot sa kanila.

Pagdating namin, pinaakyat kami agad nung wedding planner sa may stage. May table din dun na nakaayos para sa amin ni Nathan. Pagkaupo namin, hindi ko sya pinansin. Tumingin lang ako sa kanya nung uminom kami ng wine tapos pinag-kiss kami ulit while the guest tap the wine glass with their forks. Oh, whatever. Pati pala nung hiniwa namin yung cake and sinubuan yung isa't-isa (ang laki nung pinakain nya sa akin. pinapatay ata ako. pero, maganda yung cake, huh.) tapos, mag-speech naman yung close friends and relatives namin. At dahil wala naman akong mga kamag-anak (opo. tigok na lahat) at si lolo Martin lang naman yung parang kamaganak ko kahit hindi naman, sya lang nag-speech para sa akin. Tapos sina Denice, Ashley, Aaron and Destiny, mag-i-speech din daw. Humabol lang si Destiny sa reception. Pero agad syang nakarating at pinagtutulakan na sya ni Ashley kasi nakapalupot sya dito. Hahaha. Ayaw

daw nya umattend sa mismong kasal kasi di sya partner ni Ashley. Baka mapatay daw nya yung baabe. Haha. Tapos, ang alam ko, may kapatid na babae si lolo Martin eh. Sa ibang bansa nakatira. Ayaw ata sa Pilipinas kasi mainit daw kaya di pumunta. Si Sam naman... Di ko sinabi sa kanya na ikakasal or rather, kasal na ako. For sure tambak nyan yung phone ko ng texts nya. Ayokong sabihin sa kanila eh. Si Destiny naman kasi, nalaman nya because of stalking Ashley. xD

Ok, speech time. Iyakan na to. Dejoke. ba't naman ako iiyak, si handsome idiot NA HINDI PARIN NAGSOSORRY SA AKIN DUN SA WAY NG PAGTRATO NYA SA AKIN DATI lang naman yung napangasawa ko. What's the point na mag-acting na umiiyak ako sa kaligayahan? =____=

"Good late afternoon," greeted lolo. Tumingala ako. The sky was painted with orange, pink, violet and blue. It was so pretty that it makes my heart ache because I'm being so negative about my life. Life agad eh no? "I want to thank all of you for coming and witnessing the marriage of my most beloved grandson, Nathan and adopted grand daughter, Gianna. I'm really so happy that I could die. Just kidding! i still want to see my great grand kids, you know," the guests chuckled with lolo. Adik talaga si lolo kahit kailan. "Hay. parang kailan lang nung mga bata tong dalawang to. Nung binibili ko sila ng cake tapos ibabato lang ni Gianna kay Nathan yung cake nya," nagsitawanan ulit yung mga bisita. Pati ako, natawa. xD "Nung naghahabulan sila kasi kinuha ni Nathan yung teddy bear ni Gianna," tumawa pa lalo yung mga bisita habang kinukwento ni lolo yung mga kabulastugan namin ni handsome idiot. Ako naman, medyo nagbablush na. Nakakahiya naman pala kasi mga ginagawa namin noon. xD Lolo continued on making a speech. "At, ititigil ko na ang kakakwento kasi tinitignan na ako ng masama ng apo ko."

Lolo laughed with the audience. Tinignan ko naman si Nathan at nakita syang naka-smile ng pa-inosente. Masyadong pa-inosente kaya di na kapani-paniwala.

"And again, I want to thank you all. God bless. Oi, Nathaniel Marty Miguel. Alagaan mo si Gianna." pahabol ni lolo kaya lumakas ulit yung tawanan. I just rolled my eyes then pinanuod ko si Denice. Sya kasi yung next.

"Congrats, Gi. Yun lang." sabi ni Denice tapos bumaba kunwari sa stage. Pero umakyat uli! Baliw talaga to. xD "Dejoke lang. Hehehe. Pero congrats. Ano pa ba sasabihin ko? Eh di ka naman mangingibang bansa. Nagpakasal ka lang naman. Nag-iba lang surname mo. Yun lang naman. At oy. Talagang pinabigay mo yung bouquet sa akin no? Ibigay mo yung garter kay Aaron kung hindi.. ipaparape ko kay Ashley yang asawa mo!"

"Aaron. magtago ka na!" singit naman ni Ashley. xD

Laughters from the guests. Si Nathan naman, napaurong at napakapit sa akin. Kahit galit ako kay handsome idiot, di ko napigilan yung sarili ko ba tumawa nung napaurong at napakapit sa akin dahil sa sinabi ni Denice. xD

Denice laughed merrily. "So, nagkakaintindihan tayo, Nathan?"

"Oo!" sagot naman ni Nathan. Tawanan ulit mga guests. Wala eh. Baliw ho kasi mga dabarkads ko.

"Good." Denice continued. "And Nathan, wag mong lolosyangin yang magandang yan. Kung alam mo lang gaano namin pinaghirapan pagandahin yan. Try mo lang sige, ikukulong ko kayo ni Ashley sa isang kwarto. Naku. Di ko na ma-imagine anong gagawin nya sayo. Tskk."

"Ay! Bet ko yan bakla!" singit ulit ni Ashley kaya pati ako napasali sa mga guest na tumatawa,

"Baliw kayo!" I told my friends while laughing. Si Nathan naman kasi, lalong nagsumiksik sa akin.

"So, yun lang Nathan. Ikaw naman Gianna. Umayos ka at wag kang masyadong brutal sa asawa mo. Sayang ang face! Malaking kawalan yan sa earth." she added rapos bumaba na sa stage. I stuck my tongue out at her but smiled after.

Next naman umakyat sa stage at nag-speech si Aaron. "Congrats, Gi, Nathan. Wala na akong masyadong sasabihin kasi sinabi na lahat ni my loves ko yung sasabihin ko and tinatamad na ako mag-isip." sabi ni Aaron. Tapos kinidatan pa si Denice. xD

"Tamad!" I told him. He just chuckled.

"Basta eto. Alam mo Nathan, wag kang seloso sa akin. Di ko papatulan si Gianna. That's all." tapos bumaba na sya. Yun lang talaga sinabi. Napatawa nalang mga bisita. Ewan lang ha? Pero feeling ko gag show tong reception. xD

Next na umakyat ay si Destiny. "Hi Ashley!" she waved to Ashley. "I love you!" dagdag pa nya kaya umakto si Ashley na parang nasusuka. xD Nagtawanan ulit mga bisita. Si Destiny naman, humarap sa amin. "Seriously. Hahaha. Nathan, please lang, alagaan mo si Gianna, may pagka-

ewan yan eh. Ganyan talaga yan. Pagtiyagaan mo. Wag mong itatapon sa amin. Sawa na kami sa kanya,"

I rolled my eyes but smiled. "Ah, so ganyan. Haha."

"I'm just kidding girl. Haha. I just want to wish you guys all the best. Yun lang. Tapos, Nathan, favor naman o? Gawin mong lalaki si Ashley. Ahehehe." she said.

Umiling-iling si Nathan. "Ayoko! Rape pa ako."

Nagtawanan nanaman mga bisita. Si Ashley naman, sinasaksak kunwari yung sarili sa kutsara. xD

"Yiih! Ganyan, Nathan! Parang di kita schoolmate at friend ng asawa mo." pilit ni Des. Si Des talaga. Baliw. Kay Ashley. XD

Umiling parin si Nathan.

"Hmp. Eh di wag! Gi, pakibugbog yan ha! Congrats ulit." sabi ni Des tapos bumaba na.

I smiled. Tapos, napansin ko, nakahawak parin pala sa akin si handsome idiot. =_____=

Pasimple kong tinanggal pagkakahawak nya at lumayo ng konti. Hmp.

Bigla namang in-announce ng emcee yung gagawin namin ni Nathan. Tatanggalin nya pa pala yung garter sa left leg ko. =_=

Bumaba na kami at pumunta sa gitna. Tapos umupo ako sa upuan. Si Nathan naman, lumuhod. Shemay. Bigla akong nahiya. -___________-

Pinasok ni Nathan yung kamay nya sa ilalim ng gown ko tapos dahan-dahan tinanggal yung garter. Ako naman, pinipigilan kong tumawa. Nakikiliti ako eh.

Nung natanggal na nya, binato nya kay Aaron. Di naman halatang takot kay Ashley eh no? xD

Tapos nung pagkatayo ko sa kinauupuan ko, si Denice naman yung umupo tapos si Aaron yung lumuhod. Pinasuot nya kay Denice yung garter eh. Kinikilig ako sa kanila. Sana may ganun ako. Yung nagpapakilig. =__________________________________=

Sumingit ulit yung emcee. Sasayaw daw kami ni handsome idiot. Tss.

So, Nathan offered his hand. I took it and we danced at the center at the tune of Runaway by The Corrs. I dunno why they choosed this song.

I was a bit distanced to Nathan. I dunno. I guess I just don't want to fall for his acting again.

Agad kong tinapos yung sayaw tapos bumalik na sa pwesto namin. Sumunod naman si Nathan. I watched the guests. Some of them were already eating. Some were dancing. I don't really care. Di ko naman kilala yung iba.

Nathan sat beside me. Then sighed. Di ko sya pinansin. Hinayaan ko lang sya. Bahala sya.

After a moment of awkward silence, bigla syang tumayo at kinuha yung mic.

"Excuse me, everyone. I just want to say something." he announced. Tumingin naman yung mga bisita sa kanya. Ako naman, pinapanuod ko parin yung mga bisita. "Did you all know that when my wife and I were kids, we always make each other cry? After ko syang paiyakin, papaiyakin nya ako. May time pa nga na hindi ko na sya pinapaiyak, iinisin nya ako. Oh, yes. She was a bully when we were kids,"

The guests chuckled. Ako naman, napatingin na kay Nathan. Why is he telling this to the guests?

Nathan continued, "And because of that, I want to get even. Kaya nung elementary kami, wala akong pinapalapit sa kanya. Lahat ng lumalapit sa kanya, inaaway ko. And she hated me because of that. Kaya lang may nakalusot. May nakaclose syang guy nung elementary kami na kahit anong gawin kong pang-aaway sa kanya, ayaw lubayan tong panget na to. So, nainis ako lalo. Kaya nung highschool kami, ganun parin ginawa ko! Hindi kami nyan pareho ng school ha. And sa wakas, wala ng lumapit sa kanya. Nag-migrate kasi sa ibang bansa yung kaibigan nya kaya mag-isa sya. But nung 4th year kami, nakilala nya sina Ashley, Denice and Aaron. Nakonsensya ako kaya di ko nalang sila pinansin nun. Pero pag kami lang nito, lagi parin kaming nag-aaway. Di ko na sasabihin kung bakit kasi aabutin tayo ng umaga."

I chuckled while the guests laugh. Totoo naman kasi yung sinabi nya.

"Kaya lang, nag-away nanaman kami nung kailan. And, actually, nag-aaway parin kami ngayon! Yeah, right. Childish na kung childish. Gwapo naman ako." sabi pa ni Nathan. I rolled my eyes. "And unfortunately, di nya pa rin ako napapatawad so, mrs. Miguel, I just want to say three things."

I raised my eyebrow.

"First. I'm sorry kung ano man yung nagawa ko. Sorry kasi lagi kitang inaaway. Sorry kung lagi kitang ginagalit. Basta. Sorry talaga sa lahat. Second. Sorry rin kung may magawa akong kabulastugan sa hinaharap. Pagtiyagaan mo nalang ako. Wala eh. Pakawala ng mental tong napangasawa mo." he said. Tapos lumapit sya sa akin. "And lastly, I just want to thank you kasi pinagtitiyagaan mo kung ano ako. Siguro, yun yung way mo para mapakita na tanggap mo ako kahit ano pa ako so, thank you talaga."

He stared into my eyes like he was waiting for a response. Ako naman, pinagmamasdan lang sya. I was shocked because of what he did. I mean, he never said thank you or sorry to me with a sincere expression. Kasi kung mag-sosorry or thank you man sya, may konting sarcasm.

And because of that, I feel so... so...

Happy.

Like the heavy feeling in my chest was lifted or something.

I was just so happy that I felt tears running on my face. Ganito ba ako kababaw? Mag-sorry lang si Nathan at mag-thank you, iiyak na ako dahil sa kaligayahan? Well, you can't blame me. Mahirap pagtiyagaan ang ugali ni Nathan.

"Ba't ka umiiyak? Oh, heck. Did do something wrong?" he asked then held my face and wiped my tears.

"Hala ka, Nathan." one of the guests teased kaya nagtawanan yung iba.

"Nakakainis ka," I told him. "Masisira yung make up ko sa ginawa mong yan."

The guests chuckled with him.

"You silly girl." he said. "Let's dance."

Hinayaan ko syang dalhin ako sa gitna habang pinupunasan ko yung luha ko. Then, he held me close to him as we sway with the song.

Fallin by Janno Gibbs *u* (Please play the song para may effect. xD) Ooh yeah Yeah yeah

Our little conversations are turning into little sweet sensations And they're only getting sweeter every time Our friendly get-togethers are turning into visions of forever If I just believe this foolish heart of mine

I can't pretend that I'm just a friend 'Cause I'm thinkin' maybe we were meant to be

I think I'm fallin', fallin' in love with you And I don't, I don't know what to do I'm afraid you'll turn away But I'll say it anyway I think I'm fallin'(fallin') for you I'm fallin'(fallin') for you

Whenever we're together, I'm wishin' that goodbyes would turn to never 'Cause with you is where I always wanna be Whenever I'm beside you, all I really wanna do is hold you No one else but you has meant this much to me I can't pretend (no) that I'm just a friend (I'm just a friend) 'Cause I'm thinking maybe we were meant to be

I think I'm fallin', fallin' in love with you (I) And I don't, I don't know what to do (yeah, yeah) I'm afraid you'll turn away (I'm afraid you'll turn away) But I'll say it anyway (yeah)

I think I'm fallin', fallin' in love with you (I think I'm fallin') And I don't, I don't know what to do (and I don't know what to do) I'm afraid you'll turn away (I'm afraid you'll turn away) But I'll say it anyway (anyway) I think I'm fallin'(fallin') for you I'm fallin'(fallin') for you

I'm fallin', I'm fallin' for you I'm fallin', fallin' for you And I don't know what to do, yeah yeah Fall, I'm fallin' for you

While dancing, he just kept on kissing the top of my head while the cameras flash.

And I can't help but be relieve because, for the first time, I felt happy because he's Nathan. Just Nathan.

I guess life is like the night, there will always be stars in the dark sky. A light in the dark.

**

"Nathan ha! Wag mong pababayaan yang si Gianna." bilin ni Destiny bago kami sumakay ng kotse ni Nathan.

Nathan winked at her. "Ako bahala."

I smiled. Nakakaligaya naman si Nathan. Sana ganito nalang sya lagi...

Aysht. Ilang beses ko na bang nahiling yan? Di naman nagkakatotoo. Dapat prepared nalang ako para anytime na sumumpong ang pagka-bipolar nito, ready na ako.

I waved at the guess before entering the car. Bahala na sila nyan. Basta ako, gusto ko ng matulog. Inaantok na ako.

Sumunod naman sa akin si Nathan. He smiled at me warmly tapos tumabi na sa akin. May maghahatid kasi sa amin sa airport papunta kung saang lupalop. Basta beach resort daw sabi ni Nathan.

I opened the window then waved at my friends. They waved back at us tapos nag-drive na yung driver. I settled down beside Nathan who was wearing a coat over a t-shirt and slacks.

I found him staring at me while smiling widely. "You know ugly stick, you look good in that dress."

I felt my face go hot. First time nya akong purihin na nakangiti at walang sarcasm ang boses. O_O

"Oh, shut up, you idiot," I told him with a small voice. Nahihiya ako. Shet.

He just chuckled then closed his eyes. I watched his face for a while then, pinikit ko na mata ko, letting sleep take me.

Chapter 22: Love?! HAHAHAHA! Importante lang.

*Gianna's POV*

"Yiiiiih! Biyahe nanaman?" reklamo ko paglabas namin ng airport.

"Wag ka ng magreklamo ugly stick," sabi naman ni Nathan. "Malapit na tayo."

Napabuga ako ng hangin. "Malapit? Eh kanina mo pa sinasabi yan eh! Anong oras na. Malapit na mag-midnight. Sumakay na tayong kotse for almost 2 hours tapos 1 and a half hour sa eroplano tapos 1 hour na biyahe ulit sa sasakyan?! Masakit na pwet ko, ano ba."

"Sit on my lap, then."

Ha?!? But-- Ah-- I-- jksfjgsdhjfgjkhsdagfjkdr! "Gag*! sapakin kita eh!"

He smirked. "O ba't namumula ka?"

Napahawak ako ng mukha. Namumula?! Ako?! Shet! hindi nga?!?! "Oi, hindi ah! Sipain kita eh!"

Tumawa lang sya sa sinabi ko tapos inakbayan ako. I pouted then crossed my arms. May naghihintay na sasakyan sa amin eh. Pasaway lang ako at ayoko pa sumakay.

"Alam mo ugly stick, wag ka ng pasaway. Tulad nga ng sinabi mo kanina, malapit na magmidnight at malamig pa dito kaya tara na." sabi nya tapos inakay nya ako papunta sa kotse na sundo namin. "Wag kang masyadong pasaway. Kaya nag-aaway tayo eh."

"at ako pa talaga ang pasaway at may kasalanan ngayon? Eh ikaw tong topakin at magulo eh." bulong ko.

"MAY SINASABI KA UGLY STICK?" tanong bigla ni Nathan tapos tumawa ng nakakaloko. Loko to ah.

"WALA PO GWAPONG TOPAKIN!"

"Good." sabi nya habang naka-smile parin.

Maka-smile naman, wagas. *roll eyes*

Nanahimik nalang ako at sumakay na ng kotse padabog. Narinig ko naman si Nathan na tumawa kaya napasimangot ako. Psshh.

"Good evening, ma'am, sir." bati agad nung driver. "Nalagay ko na ho yung mga gamit nyo sa likod kaninang naglalambingan kayo ni sir, ma'am."

FYI, manong. Nag-aaway kaya kami!

I heard Nathan stiffle a laugh. Tss. Ba't di pa kaya sya tumawa ng tuluyan?!

"T-tara na ho, manong." sabi ni Nathan habang pigil parin yung tawa.

I shook my head and rolled my eyes. Parang baliw lang tong kasama ko eh. Pakawala ng mental.

Tumango naman si manong driver at nag-drive.

Tahimik lang akong nakaupo sa tabi ni Nathan sa back seat habang sya, tinitignan yung dinadaanan namin sa labas.

I sighed. Tapos tumingin na rin ako sa labas. Naalala kaya ni Nathan na birthday namin ngayon? O baka nalimutan nya? Impossible naman yata yun. pareho kami ng birthday tapos kakalimutan nya? Hay. Baka wala lang balak batiin ako. Eh di wag nya akong batiin! Problema ba yun?!

Pssh. Malayo pa ba yung walangyang beach resort na yun? Inaantok na ako. Solid. Pumipikit na nga mga mata ko kasi gusto ko ng matulog. Kaya lang, baka naman sumakit yung katawan

ko pag natulog ako dito sa sasakyan. Kelangan magtiis. Konting tiis pa Gi. Kaya mo yan. Magfocus ka sa ibang bagay. Tulad ng... ng... *yawn* ano nga ba yon? Ah.. Oo. Inaantok na ako.. Inaantok... Inaan...

...

**

*Nathan's POV*

I felt ugly stick's head droop into my shoulder kaya naman napatingin ako sa kanya. Nakatulog na pala. Di ko sya masisisi. Nakakapagod kayang sumayaw. Sayaw sya ng sayaw kanina eh. Lagi kasing inaaya ng mga bisita. Pinagbigyan naman nya.

"'ppy birthday..." sabi nya bigla kaya naman napatingin ako sa harap. Baka naman kasi gising tong panget na to at pag nakitang tinitignan ko sya, batukan ako.

After a few moments, her breaths became more rhytmic, indicating that she is really deeply asleep. I sighed and watched her. Debut nya dapat ngayon eh. Kasama mga kaibigan nya. Kaya lang, dahil sa kalokohan ni tanda, hindi debut yung regalo nya kay ugly stick kundi kasal. Sa pinaka-ayaw at hate nyang tao; ako.

Napabuntong hininga ulit ako. Ugly stick, sorry kung lagi nalang kitang pinapaiyak at ginagalit.

Hay nako. Hanggang sa isip lang talaga ako. Hinding hindi ko siguro masasabi yun kay ugly stick. Ewan bakit. Wala nalang basagan ng trip.

I brushed the hair strands that fell over her face the leaned close to her. "Happy 18th birthday." I whispered. "Sorry for giving you the worst gift ever. I just want to... well... to protect you."

That was true. I agreed to marry her because I want to protect her. Nung una, wala naman talaga akong pakielam. But, as days pass, I grew fond to her again. The bond we shared when we were kids was repaired. Then, I realized, I don't want her to experience the pain that I felt. It's ok if she'll hate me because of it, but, as long as she's safe from that f'n pain, I'm willing to be hated by her.

"Sir, andito na po tayo." sabi nung driver tapos huminto sa may harap ng isang beach house.

I smiled at him. "Sige po. Pakibaba nalang po yung mga gamit para maipasok nung caretaker."

Tumango naman yung driver tapos bumaba. Ako naman, dahan dahan akong bumaba ng sasakyan habang inaalalayan si ugly stick. When I got out of the car, I scooped her up and carried her then faced the driver.

"Ipapasok ko lang po tong asawa ko sa loob." I told him. Ngumiti naman sya at tumango tapos lumapit na yung caretaker ng beach house namin sa kanya para kunin at ipasok yung gamit namin sa loob.

Pagkapasok ko ng beach house, dumiretso ako agad sa kwarto namin ni ugly stick. Although bawal kami magtabi ni ugly stick sa kama, excused daw kami ni ugly stick sa honeymoon namin kaya pwede kaming magtabi. But, I guess... Ayaw yon ni ugly stick kaya wag na natin syang pagtripan at matutulog nalang ako sa sofa mamaya.

Pagkababa ko kay ugly stick sa kama, pinanuod ko muna sya sandali tapos, tinanggal ko yung sandals nya para medyo komportable naman sya. Nung nasiguro ko ng maayos na sya, bumaba na ako para magbayad dun sa driver.

"Pasensya na po at natagalan, manong." sabi ko kay manong driver tapos kumuha ako ng pera sa wallet ko para pang-bayad.

"Ayos lang ho. Inasikaso nyo pa ho ang asawa nyo no? Mahal na mahal mo sya no? Mukhang alagang-alaga mo sya eh." sabi ni manong tapos sumakay na sya sa sasakyan nya. "Salamat ho, sir! Congrats ho pala. Sabi ho kasi nung nagbabantay, kasal nyo kanina."

Napatango nalang ako tapcos pinanood sya sa sasakyan nya habang nagda-drive palayo. Hindi parin kasi nag-sink in yung sinabi ni manong driver eh. Mahal na mahal? Sino? Si ugly stick? Mahal na mahal? Nino? Ako? Mahal na mahal ko daw si ugly stick? Ha?

I began to laugh slowly habang nagsi-sink in yung sinabi ni manong driver.

Tapos, natawa na ako ng tuluyan. Ako? In love kay ugly stick? HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!! NAGJOJOKE BA SYA?! TINIGNAN AT BINUHAT KO LANG NAMAN SI UGLY STICK TAPOS IN LOVE NA AKO AGAD SA KANYA?! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA. Patawa ka manong.

**

"Nathan, tara naaaa. Sige naaaaa. Gusto ko na mag-jet ski. Tara naaaaaaaaa." pagpupumilit ni panget habang nakahiga ako sa kama. Sumakit likod ko sa sofa eh. Kaya pagkagising ni ugly stick, lumipat agad ako sa kama.

Marahas akong napabuntong hininga. "Ano ba. Wag ka ngang makulit! Tanghaling tapat gusto mo mag-jet ski? Ang init-init!"

Umupo sya sa tabi ko. "Sige na?"

"Ayoko."

"Please?"

"Hindi."

"Pretty please?"

"Mainit."

She stood up and hissed then pouted. "Para saan pa tong pagpunta sa beach eh magkukulong lang pala kami sa bahay." pagpaparinig nya. "Sunugin ko ata tong bahay na to eh."

I shook my head and stared at the ceiling. Pwede naman syang lumabas mag-isa ah? Ba't ba naman kasi gusto nya akong isama? Ngayong ayoko, ako pang nagmumukhang masama kasi di ko sya pinagbigyan.

Eh sa masakit yung likod ko eh?!

Napabuntong hininga nalang ako at tumayo. Nararamdaman ko na kasi yung tiyan ko na nagrereklamo. Hindi naman kasi ako nag-almusal. Late na ako nagising eh.

Pagkababa ko sa sala, nadatnan ko si ugly stick na nakasalampak sa sofa habang nanunuod ng pelikula at kumakain ng nova. The Last Song ata yung pamagat. Nung nakita nya ako, napasimangot sya agad at tinignan ako ng masama. Nagsmile naman ako para inisin sya. Hehehe.

"Lunch tapos yan yung kinakain mo." sita ko sa kanya habang nakangiti parin ako. "Kumain ka na ba nyan, ha, panget?"

"Pake mo ba?! Ano ba ginagawa ko nito? Di ba kumakain?!"

"Sira. Nang tanghalian. Kung hindi ka pa, sumabay ka na sa akin,"

She gave me an are-you-kidding-me look. "Kumain ka mag-isa mo! Mabilaukan ka sana!"

Napakamot ako ng batok. Kaya ko lang naman sya inaaya kasi tinatamad akong maghanda ng makakain. Kung sasabay sya sa akin, sya ng mag-aayos at uupo nalang ako di ba? Ganon nya ba talaga kagustong lumabas at maglibot?

Ah! Alam ko na! Dahil tamad rin lang ako maghanda, kakain nalang kami sa labas. Dun sa may seafood restaurant.

Umupo ako sa tabi nya. "Panget.. tara.. Libot tayo,"

Napatingin sya sa akin. "Talaga?"

I nodded.

"Yes!! O sige, magbibihis lang ako!" sabi nya tapos tumakbo paakyat sa hagdan.

Napangiti naman ako tapos tumayo. Maliligo na muna ako tapos magbibihis.

Pagkatapos ko maligo at magbihis, pinuntahan ko na si ugly stick na naghihintay sa may veranda.

So, kakain kami sa labas tapos pag medyo hindi na maiinit dun nala--

"Ang tagal mo! Dali na!" salubong sa ni ugly stick paglabas ko ng bahay.

Napatitig lang ako sa kanya. From head, shoulders, waist, legs to toes. Sht. Di ba payat sya?! Ba't ganyan?!?!? Ang ganda ng katawan nya?! At, walanghiya bakit ko nasabing maganda ang katawan nya.

"Y-yan susuot mo?" I stuttered.

"Oo. Anong masama? Nasa beach naman tayo." sabi nya tapos hinila na ako.

Masama? Anong masama?! Naka-two piece bikini ka, hindi yun masama?! Ano ngayon kung may shawl kang gamit?! See-through naman!!

"Saan tayo una? Jet ski na?" she asked habang naglalakad kami sa beach.

"Ahm. Kain muna tayo. Mamaya na tayo magjetski," I answered while at her back. At her waist.. At her legs...

I shook my head. Ano ba naman yung pumapasok sa isip ko?!

I took a deep breath and calmed myself.

Relax lang, Nathan. Si ugly stick lang yan. Si ugly stick lang. Sanay ka na dyan sa babaeng yan di ba? Immune ka na sa kanya. Basta relax lang at wag mo nalang tignan yung katawan nyang hindi mo expect na magiging ganyan kaganda. Sexy pala sya? Hehehe. Hindi ko na ata sya pwedeng tawaging ugly stick at-- what the fck anu yung naisip ko!?!

Tss. Ba' naman kasi ang ganda pala ng katawan ng panget na to?!

**

I smiled as I watch ugly stick laugh. Nakikipagkwentuhan at nakikipaglaro kasi sya ng board game sa ibang employee ng restaurant. Nalaman kasi nilang apo kami ni tanda nung narinig yung surname namin. Eh di ba nga kalahati ng beach resort na to, si tanda yung may-ari. Kaya ayun, sobrang welcome kami ni ugly stick at nakikipaglaro na nga sya ngayon ng snake and ladders sa kanila. Konti lang kasi yung mga guest eh. Cozy kasi yung ambience ng restaurant kaya parang pwedeng pagtambayan.

"Nathan! Halika! Sali ka sa amin!" tawag ni ugly stick habang tumatawa.

I smiled at her. "Mamaya nalang sige."

"Bahala ka. Haha." sabi nya tapos pinagpatuloy yung pakikipaglaro sa mga kalaro nya.

Tumayo ako sa kinauupuan ako at lumabas para tignan yung beach. The beach was awesome. Although artificial lang daw, white sand yung beach. Tapos maraming puno ng buko kaya marami yung may silong. Tapos, marami ring shack na nagbebenta ng kung anu-ano.

Napalingon ako bigla nung may narinig akong nabasag sa loob ng restaurant. Biglang may sumigaw kaya napatakbo na ako sa loob. Nadatnan ko nalang na may lalaking nakahawak ng mahigpit sa braso ni ugly stick.

Anger raised when I saw ugly stick's pained expression kaya naman inunahan ko na yung mga empleyado ng restaurant at sinugod at sinapak yung lalaking may hawak ng braso ni ugly stick.

"Fck!" mura nung lalaki nung matumba sya sa sahig. Hindi pa ako nakontento. I gripped the man's shirt then glared at his eyes.

"Fck off, man. Or else.." I threatened him. "I'm serious.'

Yes. I was serious. I can feel the rapid beating of my heart because of hatred and anger. I can even hear it.

Mabuti nalang inawat na ako ng mga tao sa restaurant at hinawakan at pinakalma ako ni ugly stick. Kasi kung hindi, baka kung ano ng ginawa ko sa gag*ng yon.

I admit I overreacted. But, you can't blame me. Ayokong makitang nasasaktan si ugly stick. Kahit napapaiyak at naiinis ko sya, iba parin yung nararamdaman ko kapag nakikita ko syang nasasaktan. Sya lang naman kasi ang meron ako. Sya lang. Nag-iisa lang sya. Hindi ko sya pwedeng pabayaan. Importante sya sa akin eh. Sobra.

Chapter 23: Late Gift. Kissing Monster.

"Ice cream?" Nathan offered paglapit nya sa akin.

I smiled and nodded. Kaya lang napatingin ako sa kamay ko. Pano nyan ako kakain ng ice cream kung may buhangin kamay ko? Gumagawa kasi akong sandcastle eh.

"Gusto mong pasubo?" he asked.

I stared at him. Si Nathan ba talaga to? xD Kanina pa to sobrang bait eh. As in! Hindi kami nagaaway. Sya pa mismo yung nag-effort nung nag-jetski kami. Hinahayaan lang ako sa gusto kong gawin. Baka naman sinaniban na to? Owmegass. Haunted ata tong resort na to?! Kelangan ko ng umuwi kung ganun!!!!

"Huy, eto o." tawag ni Nathan tapos sinubuan ako.

I smiled at him. Sumumpong lang pala yung pagka-OA ko. xD

I continued on making my sandcastle kaya naman nanahimik lang ako. Kahit pag sinusubuan ako ni Nathan, wala akong pakielam sa mundo basta magmukhang castle ang sandcastle ko. xD

"Kumusta na yang sandcastle mo?" tanong ni Nathan after a long while tapos sinubuan ulit ako.

I swallowed the ice cream first before answering. "Ok naman. Mukha namang sandcastle."

He chuckled and continued on watching me build my sandcastle while offering me an ice cream which I always accept gladly.

Nung naubos ko na yung ice cream, (oo. Ako ang nakaubos. XD) nagpaalam muna si Nathan na pupuntang Sea in a Plate. May itatanong daw sya eh. Kaya eto ako, naiwan mag-isa sa beach.

Ok naman pala si Nathan eh. Siguro nga magtitino na sya. Parang di man kami kasal. Parang nung bata lang kami at matino kaya di nag-aaway. Di ko lang feel yung marriage namin. Ganyan lang talaga siguro pag walang feelings sa isa't isa. Walang thrill ang marriage. Pero sana, ganyan nalang talaga si Nathan. Yung matino, hindi nang-iinis, hindi babaero. Although alam ko namang casanova yang sira na yan, ayaw ko lang talaga pag napapalibutan sya ng mga babae. Yung mag-smile lang sya sa kanila, halos mababaliw na sa kanya. At dahil minsan

na lang talaga mag-smile yang engot na yan, di na masyado nababaliw yung mga babae. Pero ang ayaw ko talaga eh yung bolahin at halik-halikan nya lang yung babae, gusto ng isuko yung Bataan sa kanya. I mean, di ba ginagawa lang yun ng dalawang taong nagmamahalan at kasal? Eh sa ginagawa nila, isa lang talaga masasabi ko eh. YUCK lang. I swear.

I'm not disgusted to Nathan. I'm not. I swear, I'm not...

OK FINE I'M A BIT DISGUSTED, HAPPY?!

I don't really mean to be disgusted to Nathan. Actually, not only to him but to whoever-octo-pusit he is with. Naman kasi eh. Ang daming babae ni Nathan! Eh di ibig sabihin, marami na nyang beses ginawa yon?! Mukha nga wala pa syang pakielam kung may makakita sa kanila sa pag pasok ng pulang building eh. AT BAKIT KO NANAMAN NAALALA YANG PULANG BUILDING NA YAN?! Teka, BA'T BA YUN ANG INIISIP KO!? Dapat hindi yun! Kasi--

"WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!" I screamed when a volleyball suddenly ruined my sandcastle. After screaming because of shock caused by the sudden appearance of the ball, I stared at my sand castle.

My pretty sandcastle.

Yung pinaghirapan kong pagandahin. Ayusin. Minsan lang sinira ng pesteng volleyball.

Anger came to me a I stand up. I took the ball and held it up. "Ok. Who. The. Effing. Hell. Owns. This. Ball?!" I gritted my teeth.

I glared at a guy who came to me.

"Sorry. My bad," he smirked. At may gana pa talaga syang tumawa?!

"Wala ng magagawa yung sorry mo!" I yelled at him. "Tignan mo yung ginawa mo sa sandcastle ko!!"

He sneered at me. Lalo lang akong napikon. Gag* to ah?! May naperwisyo na nga, tumatawa pa?! Pinag-aaralan ko yung design ko sa sand castle ko eh! Matino kong ginawa yun kasi baka magamit ko pag architect na ako!! Tapos minsan nya lang sinira yung design! kafhjkghjahshjfkhfjhafjhjljhkhjafhk! I'm so mad!!

"I said I'm sorry." sabi pa nung lalaki. Halatang walang bahid ng sincerity sa katawan! The kind of guy that I hate the most! "Tell you what, pretty. Wag ka ng gumawa ng walang kwentang bagay. Tulad ng sandcastle. Sumali ka nalang sa amin."

"Walang kwenta? Teka, walang kwenta yung paggawa ng sandcastle? Haha. Walang kwenta." I sarcastically laugh. "Eh ano yung may kwenta? yung makipaglandi at manira ng gawa ng iba? Haha. Gag* ka lang pala eh."

"You're some kind of a b*tch, aren't you?" he said then pulled me close to his body. He's, like, hugging my body to his.

I pushed him away rashly then kicked him where it hurts the most. Yep. Right between his legs. "B*stard."

"Fck you, you b*tch." he whimpered in pain.

I smiled sweetly at him making him more mad. Tapos naglakad na ako palayo. Baka magkasala pa ako at mailunod ko yun sa dagat.

Pero di pa ako nakakalayo nung may humila sa buhok ko kaya napa-aray ako bigla.

"Where the hell you think you're going, you b*tch?" tanong nung lalaking kalbo, maitim, matangkad, malaki ang katawan at may pagka-gag* din habang sinasabutan ang napakaganda kong buhok.

A rasp of pain escaped from my lips.

Help.

I closed my eyes tightly nung nakita kong tinaas ni boy kalbong itim ang kamay nya para sampalin ako.

But, few moments had passed and it never came.

I peeked with one eye. Tapos naibukas ko rin yung isa kong mata nung nakita ko kung sino yung nandoon.

si Superman.

De joke. Si Batman.

Seriously.

Si Nathan.

He's there. Holding the hand of boy kalbong itim. Preventing his dirty hand on slapping my pretty face.

Hinawakan nya rin ng mahigpit yung kamay na sumasabunot sa buhok ko kaya nakatayo na ako ng maayos. Masakit nga lang yung ulo ko.

"Now, now. We don't want to make some ruckus, do we?" said Nathan.

Napasigaw ako nung itulak sya ni boy kalbo at sinuntok sa mukha at tiyan. Eh doble ata yung laki ni boy kalbo kay Nathan eh!s

"Sht! Stop that, you b*stard!" I shouted at boy kalbo tapos tumakbo ako papunta kay Nathan. Napaluhod kasi sya sa sakit eh!

"Get out of the way, b*tch." boy kalbo hissed.

I glared at him as I hold Nathan. Lalapit sana si boy kalbo kaso lang pinigilan sya nung kasama nya tapos tinuro yung mga papuntang life guards sa amin kaya naman napaatras sila.

"We're not done yet, you b*tch." banta nung boy kalbo tapos umalis na sila nung mga kalahi nyang bastos.

I held Nathan's face. My chest tightened when I saw blood coming out from his nose. Hindi sana sya napuruhan.

"Nathan?" I called. He was staggering from pain. Ganun ba kalakas yung suntok ni boy kalbo? Lagot sa akin yun! Ginanyan nya asawa ko. Makakapatay na ako ng wala sa oras pag nakasalubong ko yun.

"Ma'am, ok lang po ba kayo ni sir?" tanong nung life guard paglapit sa amin. Napatango nalang ako. Pinupunasan ko kasi yung dugo ni Nathan. Kaya lang, lalo pang kumalat. Kamay lang naman ho kasi pinangpunas ko.

"'gly stick." Nathan called. Tapos dahan dahan syang umupo sa buhangin. "Ok.. Ok ka lang?"

I caught my breath. Then, before I realized it, tears glided from my eyes. I was just so.. so touched. Kasi si Nathan na nga tong nasuntok at dumudugo ngayon ang ilong, (ayaw pa tumigil sa pag dugo yung ilong nya!! TT________________TT) mas inuna nya pa yung worry nya sa akin kaysa sa pagpansin sa sarili nya!

"O?! Ba't ka umiiyak?! Sinaktan ka ba ng mga sira ulo na yon?! Gusto mo lampasuhin ko sila?!"

I sniffed. "Eh kasi naman, ikaw na nga tong napuruhan, ako parin inuna mo! WAAAAAAAAAA!!!"

Napatitig lang sya sa akin. Tapos, bigla syang tumawa.

"B-ba't ka tumatawa d-dyan?" I asked. "Ampanget mo tignan. D-dumudugo ilong mo ta's tumatawa ka."

He continued on laughing while wiping the blood. "Hahaha. Baliw ka pala eh. Ikaw na nga tong niligtas ko, ikaw pang umiiyak! Hahaha!"

"Yihh! Tumigil ka nga!" I pouted. Ngumiti nalang sya sa akin tapos ginulo buhok ko. Aso lang? =____=

"Ma'am, sir. Gusto nyo na ho bang pumasok? Ihahatid na ho namin kayo," tanong ni manong lifeguard na kanina pa pala kami pinapanuod.

"Ay, wag na ho," sagot ni Nathan bago ako makapagsalita. "Ako na pong bahala. Ok naman po ako. Una na po kayo."

I glared at him. "Ok ka nyan?"

"Oo naman. Nasuntok lang ako. Mas importante yung trabaho nila. Baka may malunod pa dahil lang sa akin. Eh ok lang naman ako so hayaan mo na sila." he smiled at me reassuringly.

Hmp. Ikaw ng thoughtful ngayon, sige. Ikaw na!

I chewed my tongue to prevent myself from talking back.

Tumango naman sina manong lifeguard. "o sige ho, sir. Basta kung may kailangan kayo o kung binalikan kayo nung mga yon, tawagin nyo lang po kami."

Tumango naman si Nathan. Tapos, pinanuod na namin sila maglakad palayo.

**

"Aw! Aray! Dahan dahan naman." reklamo ni Nathan habang nililinis ko yung sugat nya. Baliw ata to eh. Isang suntok lang sa mukha tapos ilong at bibig nya pala ang napuruhan? At kung hindi pa ako nagpumilit, hindi ko malalaman na dumudugo yung bibig nya! Nakagat daw kasi nya yung loob ng labi nya nung sinuntok sya. Baliw lang eh.

"Heh! Umayos ka nga. Para kang bakla!" bukyaw ko sa kanya. Hindi ko pa naman kasi nalilinis yung sugat nya (hindi pa nga dumidikit yung bulak eh) humihiyaw na sya sa sakit daw.

"Shut up! I'm not gay."

"Well then, prove it!!!"

"Pssh." he hissed.

Then, I felt the familiar softness of his lips into mine. I even tasted his blood. The memories of our wedding came flooding my mind. Nung nag-sorry sya, nung nagsayaw kami, nung hinahalikan nya yung tuktok ng ulo ko. It's hard to explain but, I can feel a tinggling sensation on my stomach. It's a very ticklish feeling. And I like it.

Our kiss was ended when someone knocked.

"Ahm. Excuse me po sir." tawag nung tao sa may pintuan. I don't know his name but I know that he works at Sea in a Plate.

"Yes?" said Nathan.

I bit my lip to conceal my embarassment. We were caught kissing each other and I didn't even tried to stop Nathan from kissing me earlier.

"Eto na po yung order nyo."

"Ah, pakipatong nalang sa mesa. Thanks." sabi ni Nathan. Ba't ang bait nya ata ngayon? Pag ba nasa beach, mabait na dapat agad? Eh di dito nalang dapat kami tumira!

Sumunod naman yung lalaki tapos nagpaalam na din agad. Nahiya din siguro. xD

"Ano yun?" I asked.

"Let's see." he smiled then lead me to the dining table.

He opened it and what I found there was a cake. A circular cake that was covered in chocolate. Wala pa man, naglalaway na ako.

"Well, it's a bit late but, happy birthday," he said. Tapos lumapit sya sa may bar at may kinuha sa may cabinet.

Paglapit nya ulit sa akin, may inabot syang maliit na box.

"A late gift." he said tapos binukas nya.

I caught my breath when I saw a watch in front of my eyes. It was a slim silver watch. Unang tingin palang, mukhang mahal na. Nakonsensya naman ako. Wala kasi akong gift kay Nathan tapos yung gift nya sa akin, ang mahal.

"I don't have any gifts to give you." I muttered.

He held my face then smiled. "It's ok. As long as napagtitiyagaan mo ugali ko, ayos na ako."

I smiled at him as I try not to cry. Ang drama nya kasi eh!

Then, before I can stop myself, I kissed his lips softly. "Happy birthday din. Hehe."

"Hmm. Well then, let's consider that as a gift," he winked at me.

I giggled. Tapos, lumapit sya sa akin.

"Now, where were we before your cake came?" he smirked then held me at my waist.

"ooh. I don't know." I teased.

"Try to remember it." he said tapos nag-kissing gestures pa sya.

I laughed. "You are such a kissing monster."

Chapter 24: A Five Letter Word.

"Hi, ma'am Gianna," bati nung bartender pagkapasok ko sa Sea in a Plate. Yung restaurant na madalas namin pagtambayan ni Nathan.

Ngumiti ako sa kanya. "Hi, Zaldy."

"Hindi po ata kayo tatambay sa beach?" tanong nya. "Naka-casual kayo eh."

"Ah. Haha. Ayoko naman kasi masyado umitim kaya nag-casual muna ako." I told him.

Tumango naman sya. "Nakita mo ba si Nathan?"

"Aysht!" may sumigaw sa may loob. Sa kusina siguro.

Napatingin kami saglit sa bago sumagot si Zaldy.

"Ah.. Eh.. Hindi ko po eh." sagot naman nya. napatango nalang ako habang nakatingin sa may kusina. Parang familiar yung tunog ng sigaw kanina eh.

"O sige." I headed for the door. "Una na ako."

Tumango sya tapos lumabas na ako.

I went to the beach. Pagkadating ko sa may pampang, I felt the warm breeze of the sea. I watched the azure clear sky. The kids playing on the water. Then, I thank God because we were able to convince lolo Martin not to close half of the island. I smelled the inviting odor of the grilled seafood at the shack near me. It smells so good that it made my stomach groan.

Asan na ba si Nathan? I wanna have a late lunch. Kanina ko pa sya hindi nakikita. Pagkagising ko, wala na sya sa beach house. Di naman nya siguro ako iniwan no? And speaking of iniwan, kelan kaya kami uuwi? Malaki na atraso ko kay Sam. Kung anu-ano na dinahilan ko pag tinatanong nya kung asan ako.

Pero talagang nagugutom na ako eh. Ayoko naman kumain mag-isa kasi baka pag nahagilap ko na kung nasaan si Nathan, mag-aya yun na kumain. Baka magtampo pag di ako pumayag. Eh mahirap na pag sumumpong topak nun.

Then, I remembered. May cake nga pala ako sa ref! Yun nalang kakainin ko. Para kung magaaya si Nathan na kumain, di ako masyado busog. ^____^

With that decision, I headed back to our beach house. Pagkadating ko, diretso agad ako sa ref para kunin yung cake. Nung nakapaghiwa na ako ng 2 slice (gutom lang po. :3) pumunta ako sa sala at sinindi yung TV at sumalampak sa sofa. Lazy day mode. Lazy day naman lagi eh. May caretaker kami para maglinis ng bahay every other day. Wala naman kami ginagawa ni Nathan kundi maglibot. Hay. Sarap ng mayaman. Buti nalang pumayag ako magpakasal kay Nathan. After a year, kuha ko na pera ko. Pwede na ako lumayo... Hmm. Kahit wag na masyado malayo. Basta dun sa hindi ako mapapakielaman ni handsome idiot.

Sumubo ako ng cake. Shemaaaaay. Sharaaaap!! Subo ulit. Sharap talaga. Haha. Chocolate cake plus Real Steel equals great afternoon. But, I swear I shouldn't stuff myself with this cake. Baka manaba ako. Ang sarap kasi ng mga kinakain ko dito kaya napaparami ng sobra kain ko. Dagdag pa yung pagod at gutom ko dahil sa paglilibot namin ni Nathan.

Agad ko rin naubos yung kinakain ko AT PINIGILAN KO TALAGA YUNG SARILI KO NA KUMUHA ULIT KASI BAKA SA SUSUNOD, UGLY PIG NA ANG ITAWAG SA AKIN NI NATHAN AT HINDI NA UGLY STICK. Kaya naman eto ako ngayon. Nanunuod ng Real Steel habang nakahiga sa couch. Wala na akong makain eh.

I yawned.

Bigla akong inantok. Ano bang meron sa lugar na to? Nagiging batugan ako. XD

I yawned again. Tapos napansin ko, nagcommercial pala sa TV. Walangyang cable. Naturingang cable ta's may commercial. XD

Chance ko na to. Ipipkit ko lang saglit mata ko habang commercial pa.

Ipinikit ko muna yung mga mata ko habang hinihintay matapos yung commercial ng Real Steel.

Asan na nga kaya yung asungot na yun? Kanina pa yun wala sa bahay. Pag di pa yun umuwi pagtapos ng Real Steel, sasaraduhan ko ng bahay yun. Baka nambabae nanaman. Pinuri ko palang ta's mambababae nanaman sya? Walangya naman.

I stiffled my yawn. inaantok nga ata talaga ako.

Ang tagal ng Real Steel.

Tagal ni Nathan.

Race sila ng Real Steel. Pag nauna si Real Steel, matutulog sa veranda si Nathan.

Oo. Matutulog sya dun...

Hahaha...

...

. **

"'gly stick. Huy. Gising na. Gabi na."

I stretched without opening my eyes. Then scratched my stomach. Not having a care what's going around me. Still sleepy... Ughh...

"You look funny." someone commented.

I stood up almost immediately then, hit something painfully with my head.

"Aray naman!" reklamo nung boses. Teka. Kay Nathan boses yon ah!

I looked around for Nathan while clutching my painful forehead. I found Nathan rubbing his forehead. Nagkauntugan kami. =________=

"Taena naman. Natutulog ako eh!" reklamo ko.

"Baliw! 6 PM na! Tumayo ka na. Di ka makakatulog mamayang gabi." he stood up then headed to the dining table. "Tara kain na tayo."

"Kain? Teka. Dito? Sa bahay? Di pa ako nagluto." tumayo na rin ako ng matino habang iniinda yung noo ko. Tapos lumapit ako sa kanya. I was surprised when I saw different types of seafood dishes.

"Sa'n mo galing? Binili mo?" I asked.

He pulled a chair. "Uhh. Yung iba lang."

"Eh yung iba?"

"Wala. Kain ka na. Kanina pa yan nakahanda. Hinihintay lang kitang magising."

"Saan nga galing?"

"Basta."

"Sabihin na kasi." pagpupumilit ko parin.

"Kumain ka nalang." he answered dismissively tapos naupo na sa katapat kong upuan.

Pinag-serve nya ako ng pagkain, I was a bit surprised kasi nung huli nya akong pinagserve ng pagkain eh nung bata pa kami.

"I used to serve you rice before. Madami ako nilalagay para tumaba ka. Right?" he smiled at me.

I smiled back at him. Naaalala nya pala yon? :>

Kahit madami syang dala, yung una kong tinira eh yung Paella. Mukha kasing masarap eh. :">

I tasted it slowly. Parang may... iba?

"O-ok lang lasa?" tanong bigla ni Nathan.

"Ayos naman. Bakit?"

He sighed in.. relief? "Ah. Wala naman. Kain ka lang dyan, panget."

I frowned at him as I continue to eat. Sya rin, pinapanuod ako habang kumakain. Tapos, napansin ko, ang daming band-aids ng kamay nya!

"Napano kamay mo?" tumayo ako tapos lumapit at hinawakan yung kamay nya. Then, it struck me. Sya yung nagluto ng iba. Right? "Ikaw yung nagluto nung ibang ulam?"

I sighed. "Fine. You caught me."

"adik ka ba! Nagluto ka lang tapos parang ni-rape na ng kutsilyo yung kamay mo!?" sigaw ko sa kanya. Kasi, I swear, ang daming band-aid ng kamay nya. Tapos nung tinanggal ko sila, tumambad sa akin yung pagkarami-raming paso at hiwa.

I sighed in defeat. "Ano ba pumasok sa isip mo at nagluto ka? Kita mo nangyari sa kamay mo."

He mumbled something that I hear.

"Ha?"

"EH KASI NAMAN GUSTO KO LANG BUMAWI SAYO SA MGA GINAWA KO SAYO DATI!"

"KELANGAN SUMIGAW?!"

"HINDI!" tapos napatigil sya. "Hindi naman."

I just shook my head. "Bigyan muna natin sila ng ointment."

"No, wait."

"What?"

He took a deep breath. "Sorry,"

The word surprised me. "For what?"

"Everything. For making you marry me. For ruining your school life,. For your friends." he said.

I smiled. Sorry, huh? It was just a five letter word. But it made me really happy.

"It's fine. Ayos lang sa akin." I assured him.

He gave me a bewildered look. "Fine? Are you nuts? I took away everything from you. Friends. Freedom. Romance."

I rolled my eyes. OA din tong asawa ko eh. "Just shut up and let it be, ok?"

"But--"

"Shut up."

"I--"

"Nathan,"

"Sorry."

"I know." I told him then held his hand carefully.

Chapter 25: His Pain.

*Gianna's POV*

Opening inbox...

From: Sam :)

Good morning, chocolate! how was your sleep? I hope you had a great dream. :) Kelan pala uwi mo? I miss you already. :( Di mo naman kasi sinabi sa akin agad na kailangan mo mag-out of town para asikasuhin yung resort nyo. Eh di sana nakasama kaming lahat para mabigyan ka ng full support! Nakatikim pa kami ng libre non. Hehe. Ingat ka ha chocolate.

From: Sam :)

Hi, cupcake! Padaan naman sa cellphone mo. Kelan ba uwi mo? :(( Miss you na. Di tayo tuloy makalibot. Hinihintay ka namin ni Des, Renz and Vince. Ingat ka ha. ;)

From: Sam :)

What's up, leche flan? Pasalubong namin ha? Hahaha. Ingat ka. Wag masyado magpagod. ;)

From: Sam :)

Cadburry, wala ka ba load? Reply ka naman o. :( I wanna talk to you eh.

From: Sam :)

Toblerone, kahit wag muna ako replyan, ok lang! Busy ka nga pala. Hahaha. Sorry. Nakakainip kasi sa bahay eh. Di kasi natuloy yung uwi nila mama from States so, mag-isa lang ulit ako this christmas. Busy din kasi yung iba kasi tumutulong sila sa bahay. ;)

From: Sam :)

Good night, vanilla. Sweet dreams. :)

From: Sam :)

Good afternoon, caramel! Enjoy the rest of the day. :)

From: Sam :)

Choco fuuuuuuuuuudge. ;) I just want to let you know that I'm so happy that I found you again. I swear di na kita iiwan ulit. Promise. ;) And, by the way. Happy, happy birthday. I wish you all the blessing that anyone can receive. Stay sweet and kind. You'll always be my special bestfriend. Sorry I can't go and see you in person. Tinataguan mo ata ako eh! Hahaha. Kidding. ;) Di ko kasi mahagilap saan bahay mo. Eh di daw alam ni Des eh. Tapos ayun, nagmadali umalis. May pupuntahan daw kasal or something? Haha. Take care choco fudge. :)

Those messages. Messages from my dear bestfriend. From Sam. Lahat ng yan, galing sa kanya. Wala pang kalahati yan. Wala pa ngang one-fourth eh. But, I keep reading his messages whenever I hold my phone. He's so thoughtful that I can even. Hay. Ang swerte ko sa kanya. Kahit di ko sya nirereplyan, tinetext parin nya ako. Ayoko na kasing madagdagan pa yung kasalanan ko sa kanya kaya ayoko na magreply at magsinungaling pa.

"Huy anong ginagawa mo dyan?" tanong ni Nathan tapos umupo sa buhangin sa tabi ko.

I stuffed my phone into my shorts pocket. "Wala."

Di sya sumagot. So, I glanced and stared at him. He was wearing a hawaiian red shorts and a white shirt. Lalong namula yung pulang short nya dahil sa sunset. And, I need to admit it but, he sure looks stunning. Milagro nga atang maituturing tong.. "honeymoon" na to kasi walang lumalapit na mga babae sa kanya. As in walang lumapit. May mga napapatitig sa kanya, oo. Lalo na kaya pag shirtless sya, ang daming napapatingin at napapatitig sa kanya. Pati nga ako, napapatitig sa kanya. Lalo na sa ano nya. Sa abs nya. Ajejeje. xD

Despite of his looks, someone made him cry, right?

I wonder what happened? Hmm. Tanungin ko kaya sya?

Or maybe not. Baka topakin.

Pero curious talaga ako eh!

Should I ask him or not?

Nakakatakot naman kasi eh. Pero gusto kong malaman.

After frowning so many times, curiousity had taken over. "Nathan?"

"Ow?" he raised his eyebrows.

"Paano ka pinaiyak ng babae?"

"Hmm? Yung naalala ko nalang eh nung ininis mo ako sa classmate natin. What was her name again?" he frowned a little. "Was it Noemi?"

I rolled my eyes. "That's not what I meant. Yung ex mo na nagpaiyak sayo. Hindi ako. And it was Melanie. Not Noemi. Ang layo naman ng Melanie sa Noemi. Yung tunog sa huli lang malapit."

"Sorry naman. Di ko naman kasi kailangan tandaan ang pangalan non." he answered hotly.

"Pssh," I muttered. "So, how?"

He stuck his tongue out. "At bakit ko naman sasabihin sayo?"

"Because I'm your wife."

He gave an are-you-kidding-me look. "O? Tapos?"

I pouted. "sabihin na kasi! Kung hindi, ipapa-rape kita kay Ashley!"

He shook his head and smiled. "You wouldn't do that."

I held his face then stared into his eyes. "I would." I told him seriously kahit na... DI KO TALAGA GAGAWIN YON.

"Fck. No way. Hell no."

"Tell me then."

Tumitig lang sya sa akin. Tapos, marahas syang napabuga ng hangin. "She told me she loves me. She asked for money so she can continue attending school. I caught her with some other guy. She left."

"Ok. Tapos?" I asked, urging him to go on.

He pinched my nose. "Adik ka? Tapos na."

I snorted and rolled my eyes. "Ba't di kaya sagutin ng maayos. Tss. Di matinong kausap. Bahala ka nga."

He was quiet and I ignored him. I just watched the calm sea reflecting the orange color of the setting sun. I stared at the sky which was painted by the magical colors of orange, pink, red and violet made by the sunset. It's so gorgeous.

"Huy, umayos ka ng upo." Nathan called.

"Maayos naman upo ko ah?!" I glared at him.

"What I mean is, spread your leg. Ibaba mo. Yung flat sya sa buhangin." he said. I scowled at him. "Dali na."

With much hissing, ginawa ko yung pinapagawa nya. It surprised me when he lied down on the sand, using my lap as his pillow.

"That's better," he sighed contentedly. Ako naman, nakasimangot lang. Nakakainis naman kasi. Tinatanung ko sya ng matino tungkol sa ex nya tapos ang ganda ng sagot. Di man umabot ng five sentences.

He stared into my face. Ako naman, hinahayaan ko lang sya.

"Gusto mo talagang malaman?" tanong nya bigla.

"Ewan ko sayo. Bahala ka sa buhay mo."

He closed his eyes. "I loved Gwen. Sineryoso ko sya. I gave everything she wanted just to make her happy. Money, material things, everything. Nagpakatino ako non. Nung una, may mga naririnig na ako na may iba syang boyfriend. Hindi ko pinansin. Sabi nung kaibigan ko, imposible yun. Imposible nga naman yon. She told me she loves me. I believed her. Of course I believed in her. Mahal ko sya eh. Bakit di ko sya paniniwalaan? But then, one afternoon, nung pumunta ako sa gym ng school para i-surprise sya, ako yung na-surprise nya. I found her having... having..."

"Stop." Pinikit ko ng madiin yung mata ko. Then, I bit my lip. "Please stop." I told him again. Hindi ko alam bakit pinigilan ko sya. Maybe because I felt warm liquid sliding on my legs. Or maybe because it's too weird for me to see Nathan's sad expression. Or maybe both.

"Let me," he said then touched my face which made me open my eyes. "After this, I'll let go. Help me to let go. Listen to what I have to say."

He was asking me to help him. No, he was begging me to help him, to listen to him. He wants me to help him let go of the pain.

I stared at his watery eyes at saw that he was desperate to end the pain. I nodded.

He smiled sadly. "I found her having... sex. With my.. friend."

"What the heck?!" as in WTH?! Di nga?! I... I.. Huh?! Aafsnfaskfhbgahshjfajsdflhklshfl?! HUH??!! "S-sa s-school?!? Are you freaking kidding me?!"

"Heard me right?" he grimaced. "Yep. I caught them on the act at the gym. She was a volleyball player so dun sila nagpapractice. Pero kinausap ko yung mga teammates nya and sinabi ko na isu-surprise ko sya. So, walang tao sa gym nung araw na yun. Tapos bigla kong naisip non, kaya pala sobrang close at sweet nila sa isa't isa. I thought it was because of me. Because they

felt like they were supposed to be close because of me. Instead, naging sobra nga silang close to the point na nagawa nila sa akin yon. Funny how disgusting they were. Sa public place pa nila ginawa. How stupid. Anyway, after seeing them at that scene, I cried even though I'm in a public place, too. At school to be exact."

Hinayaan kong mag-sink in sa utak ko yung kwento ni Nathan. Yun ba yung reason kung bakit nagkaganyan sya? Nawalan ba sya ng trust sa ibang tao? Kaya wala na syang ka-close? Well, damn that b*tch and rhar b*stard. Hindi yon totoong kaibigan.

"She was stupid to let you go." I told him. "You sure an idiot and mean and hateful but you deserve someone much better."

"Thanks for the praises." he said sarcastically. But, he chuckled. Tapos umupo sya at hinawakan yung magkabilang balikat ko. "I don't even care anymore." he smiled. "After our annulment, hindi na ako magpapakasal sa iba. Meaning, you'll be my one and only, former by then, wife. So, savour the moment, mrs. Miguel."

I stared at him dumbstruck as he took his place on my lap and closed his eyes.

**

It's the most beautiful time of the year. Lights fill the streets with so much cheer. I should playing in the winter snow, but I'mma be under the mistletoe. I don't wanna miss out on a holiday. But I can't stop staring at your face. I should be playing in the winter snow. But I'mma be here under the mistletoe with you, shawty with you. With you, shawty with you. With you under the mistletoe.

I sighed dreamily. Ako'y sobrang nagagalak dahil ang pasko ay nalalapit ng dumating. Whew. Ang deep! Hahaha.

I continued on listening to Justin Bieber's Mistletoe at Myx. Buti nalang naka-cable kami. Kaya kahit andito kami sa beach, parang nasa bahay lang parin. Feel na feel ko na ang christmas. Kahit nasa beach kami ni Nathan, feel ko pa rin talaga. Kasi nagreready na sila. Yung mga shacks and restaurants, punong-puno ng christmas decorations, yung hangin sa beach lalo na pag umaga or gabi, malamig na. Yung tao, konti nalang. Nagsisiuwian na halos kasi magsecelebrate sila sa kanya kanyang tahanan. Kami kaya ni Nathan kailan uuwi? Sana makauwi na friday. Kasi 23 na yun so may 2 days pa kami bago christmas! :>

Ah! Ngayon ko nalang itatanong kelan kami uuwi!

"Nathan!" I called. "Nathan! Asan ka na ba?'

No response. Asan na ba yung lalaking yun? Nasa bahay lang yun. Di ko naman nakitang lumabas eh.

"Nathaaaaaan!" tawag ko ulit. Nung wala parin sumasagot, tumayo na ako sa couch at naglakad-lakad sa loob ng bahay habang tinatawag sya.

Pumunta ako sa kusina kasi baka nagluluto nanaman sya pero wala. Tapos sa terrace, wala din. Nung pumunta ako sa may kwarto, wala din naman. Asan na yung lalaking yun?

"Handsome idiot!" I called. I just pouted when no one answered. Tapos, bumalik na ako sa sala at naupo nalang sa sofa. Makikita ko din yun mamaya. Saan nanaman kaya nagsususuot yung lalaking yun?

Christmas song nanaman yung nakapalabas sa Myx. Di ko alam anung pamagat. Basta kay Christian Bautista. Maganda naman. Pero mas maganda parin kung magpapakita na si Nathan.

"NATHAAAAAAN!" tawag ko ulit, nagbabasakaling nasa bahay sya at marinig ako.

I nearly screamed in shock when a cold hand touched my shoulder. Nakahinga naman ako ng maluwag nung lumingon ako at nakitang si Nathan lang yon.

"Napano ka?" tanong nya tapos naupo sa tabi ko habang pinupunasan yung basang buhok. Aaaah. Naligo siguro kaya di ko mahagilap. "Makasigaw ka naman parang may sunog."

I stuck my tongue. "Kanina pa kaya kita hinahanap."

"Bakit?"

"Kelan uwi natin?"

"Gusto mo na ba umuwi?"

I shook my head. "Di pa naman. Pero gusto ko, this friday, uwi na tayo. para sa christmas, kasama natin si lolo."

He didn't responded. Instead, napatigil sya sa pagpunas ng buhok nya.

I frowned. "O bakit?"

"Gusto mo yung makasama sa pasko?" tanong naman nya.

I gave him a bewildered look. "Lagi ko naman sya kasama pag christmas. Ikaw lang naman ang maarte at di umuuwi pag pasko."

"It's none of your business." he answered coldly. Ako naman, napataas nalang ng kilay. Tinopak nanaman ba si topakin?

"K. Fine. Whatever. So, ano? Uwi na tayo sa 23?"

"Bahala ka. Uwi ka mag-isa mo."

"Bakit? Uwi na tayo sa 23 ha?"

"Umuwi ka mag-isa. Uuwi ako sa January." naka-poker face nyang sagot.

I hissed. "Hindi! Sasama ka sa akin. Uuwi na tayong 23 para sa pasko, KASAMA NATIN SI LOLO!"

"ANG KULIT MO HA! AYAW KO NGA SABI SUMAMA! MAG-CELEBRATE KA MAG-ISA MO KASAMA SI TANDA! WAG MO AKO PAKIELAMAN PWEDE BA!!"

I stared on him in shock with mouth hanging open. But, he just continued on shouting at me.

"KUNG GUSTO MO, UMUWI KA NA NGAYON! WAG MO NGA AKO IDAMAY DYAN SA SET UP NYONG 'HAPPY FAMILY' KUNWARI NG MATANDANG YON!" he told me.

I bit my lip as my chest tightened. Then, I sniffed. And before I know it, I was sobbing. Ba't ba ganun sya? Gusto ko lang naman na makasama namin sya sa pasko eh. Malay ba natin, baka magkaayos sila ni lolo. Bakit kailangan nya pa akong sigawan ng sobra? T~T

"H-hindi mo naman ako kailangang s-sigawan eh!!" I cried.

I clenched my fist, stood up and glared at him then ran outside the house with a heavy feeling in my chest. Di naman nya kasi kailangang sumigaw. Eh di sana sinabi nalang nya sa akin na uuwi kami sa 23 pero di sya sasama sa amin ni lolo! Mahirap ba yun?! Hindi naman di ba?! Ayan nanaman yung pesteng baliw na yun! Tinopak nanaman! Nandamay nanaman! Sumumpong nanaman ang kasamaan ng ugali! Nakaka-hurt lang!! TT~TT

Nakakainis sya! Hanggang pagpapaamo lang ata sya sa akin, hindi naman alam kung paano ako pag bigyan! Badtrip lang! Gusto ko sya saksakin, sampalin, sipain, katayin, lutuin at ipakain sa mga pating! Nakakasama sya ng loob! Sobra!

I ran at the beach blinded by my tears. Sorry naman kung medyo OA ako. Pero, naman kasi eh! Nasanay na ako na matino ngayon si Nathan!

Napaupo ako sa buhangin nung may mabunggo akong malaki, matigas at nakakasakit.

"Aray! What the fck! Tanga ka ba!" sigaw nung nabunggo ko.

"S-sorry naman po." I sobbed. Tapos, tumayo na ako at pinunasan yung luha ko para makakita ako ng matino.

Naglalakad na ako palayo nung may humila sa buhok ko. Masakit lang ha! Ano to, nanananggal ng buhok?! Umiiyak na nga ako, lalo pa akong napaiyak sa ginawa nung nanabunot sa akin! TT____________________TT

"Teka. Ikaw yung kahapon ah." sabi nung nanabunot sa akin tapos hinila pa ako papalapit sa kanya! MASAKIT! SOBRA! LALO AKONG NAPAIYAK SA SAKIT! "Ikaw walangya ka. kasama yung walangya mong boyfriend."

"Let-- let me go!" I gasped as I try to pull myself away unsucessfully from boy kalbo's grasp. Lalo lang kasi akong nasasaktan sa ginagawa kong yon.

"Shut up you b*tch." he told me. Tapos hinila nya ako papunta sa villa ata nila. TT__TT "Oi, Ruddy! Look what I found."

Hinila ako ni boy kalbo sa loob ng villa. Binalutan naman ako ng takot nung marinig ko yung lock ng pinto. Tapos, nakita kong lumabas sa kwarto yung lalaking sinipa ko kahapon. May kasunod pa syang isang lalaki na medyo matangkad tapos maputi din.

"Ah! That b*tch from yesterday!" sabi nung lalaking sinipa ko. Tapos, bigla akong tinulak ni boy kalbo kaya naman napasubsob ako sa sahig.

I recoiled in fear. Napahinto na rin ako sa pag-iyak dahil sa takot. Kasi yun nalang ngayon ang nararamdaman ko. Sobrang takot. Ano na nito? I'm trapped. TT^TT

Lumapit sa akin yung sinipa kong lalaki na Ruddy ata yung pangalan. I stared at the wild look on his eyes and the evil grin on his mouth. "Alam mo ba, sobrang sakit nung ginawa mo sa akin kahapon?"

Napaatras ako sa takot. I can feel the rapid beating of my heart. I can even hear the sound of my fast breathing because of fear.

"How about..." the one named Ruddy brushed his fingertips on my cheeks. I shrugged him off hastily. He scares the hell out of me. I'm having goosebumps by the touch of his fingers. TT^TT "I make you feel the pain? In a different way, though. You look like a virgin, b*tch, so for sure, you'll feel the pain. Don't worry. After the pain, it'll be heaven."

I am in serious trouble now. Alam ko na kung anong balak nila. And I can't even bear to think about it. Oh, God. Please help me. Please, please, please.

"Fck you. Leave me alone." I growled then tried to kick him. But, instead, he slapped me, making me feel dizzy and all.

"Don't worry, b*tch. You'll do that." he said. He offered an high five to his friends.

Despite of the dizzy feeling, I tried to stand up and run for it. But, instead, sinampal lang ako ni boy kalbo kaya mas lalo akong nahilo. Nasubsob nanaman ako sa sahig. Pero, di na ako makatayo. Sobrang hilong-hilo na ako sa ginawang pagsampal sa akin at pagsabunot.

I started to cry. While crying, I prayed silently. Pinagdasal ko na sana, may mapadaan man lang security. O kaya hinanap ako ni Nathan at mapagawi dito. Kahit ano. Kahit sino. Basta matulungan ako. yun nalang magagawa ko. Ang umiyak, magdasal, maghintay at subukang manlaban. Pero, anong laban ko sa tatlong lalaking doble ata ang laki sa akin?

Naramdaman ko nalang yung paghila ng isang lalaki sa damit ko kaya napunit. I tried to cover myself with my hands.

"Nathan!" I cried as the guys laugh. Tapos, may nagpatay ng ilaw, leaving the room lighted by the small amount of moonlight that was attempting to enter at the window.

Sisigaw sana ulit ako pero sinampal nanaman ako. Pakiramdam ko, gustong sumama ng mukha ko sa kamay na nananampal sa akin.

Nakit ko nalang na nagtatanggal na ng pang itaas yung Ruddy tapos hinila ako patayo gamit ang buhok ko. I heard my involuntary cry. At lalo pang lumakas ang pag-iyak ko nung paghahalikan ako sa leeg.

I scratched, punched, kicked and cried Nathan's name. I did anything to make them stay away from me. Pero pag sobra ng napapalakas ang iyak ko, sinasamapal nalang nila ako para patahimikin.

maybe they were getting annoyed because of my cries because when I cried for Nathan's name once again, he pushed me on the floor then laid on top of me, savouring my neck and upper body like a pig. Nagsisitawanan lang yung mga kasama nya.

"Pagsawaan muna ang taas bago ang ibaba, di ba?" sabi pa nung sama nilang maputi kaya naman nagsitawanan ulit sila.

Wala naman akong magawa kundi isigaw ulit ang pangalan ni Nathan. Sana, sana talaga, hinahanap nya ako. Pero imposible na siguro yon.

Tears continued flowing rapidly from my eyes. I cried out Nathan's name until my throat feels raw when someone tugged my beach shorts, leaving me in my swimsuit that I usually wear at beach.

"No! Please. Tama na. Stop it! Nathan!" I begged. But they just laughed me off.

At that moment, I heard a loud crash and saw the room flooded by moonlight.

Biglang napatayo yung Ruddy sa pagkakadagan sa akin. Then, I heard a commotion and the familiar voice of Zaldy, Carlo, Gil and...

Nathan.

I think I was losing my grip from consciousness because I got a glimpse of Nathan's face then, I don't know what happened.

**

*Nathan's POV*

One look from Gianna's face, I reached for the guy that was lying on top of him when we entered the villa. I gripped his shoulders that I saw him flinch from pain.

"You b*stard." I punched him on his face. Sunod-sunod ko syang pinagsusuntok at pinagsasapak. Wala akong pakielam kahit pinipigilan na ako ng mga kasama ko. Wala akong awang nararamadaman sa lalaking nag-attempt galawin si Gianna. Why? Because I feel empty. Besides hate and anger, there was nothing inside me. Everything was robbed off except hate and anger when I saw Gianna's broken expression.

Napatigil at napakalma lang nila ako nung may nagsabi sa aking asikasuhin ko daw muna si "ma'am Gianna". I turned to Gianna. I broke my heart seeing her.. like that. Her clothed were gone. She was now only wearing her swimsuit. Her skin looks inflamed. And her face, oh, God. Dumudugo yung gilid ng labi nya. Napa-upo ako sa tabi nya at nasabunot ko yung buhok ko. Bakit ko ba kasi sya sinigawan? Bakit ko kasi sya hinayaang umalis? Hindi sana nangyari to. Btui naagapan pa namin. Ang gag* ko kasi.

Dahil hindi ko rin makayanan si Gianna na makita sa ganitong posisyon, tinanggal ko yung damit ko tapos pinasuot ko sa kanya. Hinanap ko rin saang banda ng kwarto napunta yung shorts nya. Nung nakita ko, sinuot ko din sa kanya. Hinawi ko yung basang buhok sa basangbasang mukha nya. Basang-basa ng luha at pawis. I felt my chest tighten. This is Gianna. The ever-loving, bubbly, tough, friendly and cheerful Gianna. Ba't ginawa sa kanya to? Gag* ang mga yon.

I scooped her up then carried her, all the way back to our beach house. Thankfully, wala ng masyadong tao ang beach dahil malapit na ang pasko kaya naman walang nakikiusyoso.

Pagkadating ko sa beach house, idiniretso ko sya sa kwarto tapos inihiga sa kama. Tapos, pumunta ako sa banyo para kumuha ng tuwalya at sabon na may konting tubig para pang hilamos sa kanya. Carefully, I did that. Hindi ko na sya ginising. Pero, hindi din ako natulog. Nakaupo lang ako sa tabi nya.

I stared at her sleeping face. The pain that I felt when I caught Gwen cheating on me was nothing to the pain that I felt when I saw Gianna looking broken and hopeless. I was so sure of myself. All those talks about protecting Gianna, taking care of her, they hitted me like a meteorite. Ang lakas ng loob ko, di ko naman pala magagawa. Napahamak pa si Gianna.

Masakit yun eh. Masakit. Yung alam mo sa sarili mo na may pananagutan ka, may kasalanan ka. Totoo nga siguro yung sinasabi nilang kailangan muna sigurong mapahamak bago matuto. Pero, sana ako nalang yung napahamak. Hindi si Gianna. Malaki syang kawalan eh. Ako, wala namang maapekto sa pagkapahamak ko. dapat ako nalang talaga.

Hindi ko alam kung anong gagawin ko pag may nangyaring masama kay Gianna. I can't even bear to think about it. At ngayong napahamak sya at muntik ng ma-rape, it feels like my heart is being tortured and stabbed by a million needles dipped in burning acid. It hurts alot. Sobra.

I brushed Gianna's hair away from her face. Then, before I know it, I pulled and hugged her while crying.

Chapter 26: Masaya na eh. Pesteng souvenirs.

*Nathan's POV*

I yawned as I watch Gianna's sleeping face. Hindi ako nakatulog kakabantay sa kanya buong gabi kaya naman pilit kong nilalabanan ang antok ngayon. Sino ba naman ang makakatulog sa lagay ni Gianna ngayon? She wakes up screaming and crying at odd hours. I had to calm her down.

I brushed some strands of Gianna's hair away from her face. Exactly at that moment, her eyes fluttered open.

"You're here." she said, tears starting to glide from her eyes again. "I thought you never came for me. I thought you being here was only a dream."

I wiped her tears away then held her face close to mine. "Silly. I've been here all night long."

She smiled at me. But after a moment, her eyes went wide in fear. "I'm done, aren't I? I'm... I'm..."

My chest tightened at her expression. I kissed the top of her head. "Hindi. Don't worry."

"Really? Are you sure?"

"Oo naman." tango ko. "Tumayo ka na dyan tapos maligo. Ano gusto mo gawin ngayon? Uuwi na tayo bukas ng hapon so i-enjoy mo na yung natitirang day."

Napaupo sya sa sinabi ko. "Talaga? Uuwi na tayo?"

I nodded. She grabbed me and hugged me tightly. "Thanks."

I hesitated as I raise my hands to hug her back. She caught me off guard. Hindi ko expect na yayakapin nya ako.

My heart pumped faster. I wonder if she can feel it? Sana hindi!

"Uhm.. M-maligo ka na. M-magluluto muna a-ako ng almusal." I stammered. Oh, crap.

I hastily stood up, gave her a smile then left the room.

Napakamot naman ako ng ulo. Ba't ko ba nasabing magluluto ako? Baka masunog ko tong beach house. Oh, well. Nakapagluto naman ako ng matino nung kamakalawa. Makakapagluto naman siguro ako ng simpleng almusal.

I climbed down the stairs then headed to the kitchen. Binasa ko muna ng tubig yung mukha ko tapos naglabas ako ng mga itlog at bacon galing sa ref. I defrosted the frozen bacon into the water then cracked some eggs into the bowl and mixed it. Bacon and scrambled egg lang naman mapapakain ko kay Gianna eh.

Nilagyan ko ng asin yung itlog tapos tinuloy ko yung pagscramble ko. Tapos kinuha ko yung frying pan and nilagyan ng konting mantika pagkasindi ko ng stove. Ang alam ko, bacon ata dapat ko unahin eh. So, I took the defrosted bacon then laid it to the pan, causing me to jump. Tumatalsik yung mantika ta's biglang lumakas yung usok eh! Wala naman talaga kasi akong

talent sa pagluluto. Tinulungan lang ako ni Carlo sa paggawa nung Paella kaya medyo matino yun eh.

Dali-dali kong kinuha yung bacon (nasunog ng konti. -___-) habang iniiawasan yung mga tumatalsik na mantika. Masakit mapaso huh! Di pa nga ako nakaka-get over sa napagdaanan ko dahil si linsyak na Paella na yun. Buti nagustuhan ni Gi.

Nilagay ko kasunod nung unang bacon yung isa pang bacon na dinefrost ko. This time, MAS MARAMI YUNG TUMALSIK NA MANTIKA. NATALSIKAN PA NGA AKO EH, TAPOS MAS MARAMI DIN YUNG USOK AND MAS MAINGAY KAYSA SA KANINA! Nako. Lagot ata tiyan namin ni Gi.

I beated the egg as I wait for the bacon to be cooked. And, as usual, nasunog nanaman. Linsyak na pagkain. Dapat matino nyan yung itlog.

Pagkaalis ko ng bacon sa pan, yung scrambled egg naman yung nilagay ko. Feeling ko naman, matino talaga kakalabasan ng scrambled egg na to. Wala naman sigurong nasusunog na scrambled egg no? Pag nasunog pa to, lalasunin ko yung sarili ko.

Habang nagluluto, naalala ko yung nangyari kagabi. Walangya mga sira ulong mga yun. Magtatanong nga ako mamaya sa manager kung napano na yung mga lokong yun at kung kailan pwede kami magreklamo.

"Huy. Luto na yung itlog."

"AY TEKA-- ARAY!" napasigaw ako sa sakit nung unconscious kong hinawakan yung niluluto nkong itlog. Nagulat naman ako sa kasama kong biglang sumulpot sa tabi ko eh!

"Ba't mo hinawakan!? Baliw ka ba?!" sigaw din ni Gianna tapos pinatay nya yung stove at hinila ako papunta sa mesa.

Kumuha sya ng yelo sa ref tapos pinahawak sa akin.

"Panghawak mo yung napaso mo. Para di lumala yung paso." sabi nya pa sa akin. "Ba't ka naman kasi nagluto eh fake lang pala yung cooking skills mo?"

I hissed. "Eh napasubo na ako eh. Pasalamat ka nga pinagluluto kita."

She grinned at me. Mukhang... Mukhang ok na sya ha? Inaalala nya pa kaya yung kagabi?

"SALAMAT HANDSOME IDIOT! THE BEST KA! YOUR THE MAN! IDOL NA KITA! PWEDE PAAUTOGRAPH?! PAPICTURE NA RIN! O ayan. Happy?" she teased.

"Huh. Wag kang gumanyan. Kung wala lang nangyari sayo kagabi..."

"OH SHUT UP WILL YOU?!?"

"HA?! O bakit?! Ay. Sorry." I bit my lip. Ba't ko ba sinabi yung kagabi?! Sorry naman no?! SORRY NAMAN!! NAGKAKAINISAN LANG KAMI EH!!!

I heard her sigh.

"Sorry talaga, Gi," I said sincerely. Hindi ko naman kasi talaga sinasadya. Basta bigla nalang nadulas sa dila ko eh. Napaalala ko pa tuloy sa kanya.

Napamasahe sya ng sentido nya. "It's alright. Patingin nga ng paso mo."

I offered my hand for her to observe. Pero nung hawakan nya yung kamay ko, napansin ko yung kamay nya, medyo namumula. They look irritated. Di naman mukhang sunburnt.

"What happened to your hand?" I asked.

She shook her head. "Wala."

"Oh come on. They look irritated."

Di sya sumagot. Instead, she took the scrambled egg then placed it together with the bacons on a plate. Tapos kumuha sya ng tinapay, mayonaise at mustard sa ref at nilapag sa mesa habang ako, nakatitig lang sa kanya. Hindi lang naman kasi yung kamay nya yung namumula. Lahat ng visible parts nya, namumula.

"Allergy?" tanong ko ulit. Umiling lang naman sya ulit. Nagkakalokohan na ata tayo. =______= Pag nainis ako, lalabas ako ng bahay. I swear I'll do that.

"I.. I scrubbed them off." she answered like she was close to tears.

She srubbed them off? Srubbed them? Ah! D*mn.

I clenched my fists. Those b*stards. Ang laki ng epekto ng ginawa nila kay Gianna. "I'll kill them. i'll kill those fckng b*stards."

I can feel rage filling me up. I can even feel myself shaking from hatred. I gritted my teeth as I try not to scream. Masakit eh. Masakit na makitang ganyan si Gianna. Kahit lagi kaming nagaaway, sanay na akong maingay sya. Malakas. Para nga tong super saiyan sa dragonball kasi pag nagagalit sa akin, lumalakas palo. Hindi yung tulad ng ganito. Yung pag naaalala nya yung nangyayari kagabi, parang lalo pa syang nanghihina at natatakot.

"No, Nathan. I'm ok. I'm fine now." she held my closed fists. "Let's enjoy the rest of the honeymoon, ok?"

I forced myself to relax. She smiled at me then took a bread then placed an egg, bacon and mayo in it. Ginaya ko rin sya. Ang pinagkaiba lang, mustard yung nilagay ko.

I bit my sandwhich. And felt myself throwing up. ANG ALAT NG ITLOG!!

"Wag mong kainin!" sigaw ko kay Gianna, pero, nakain na nya yung ginawa nyang sandwhich. Oh, crap! "Maalat yung itlog!"

She chewed it calmly. "It's fine. Dagdagan mo nalang ng mayo."

Nakakain nya yun? Yung maalat na pagkaing yun?

I did what she said then took a bite on my sandwhich. The mayo did masked the saltness of the egg. Siguro marunong magluto si Gianna. Alam nya gagawin eh.

"Told you, right?" she giggled.

I stared at her. How can she be so sweet and nice to me? Sure, she hates me. Nung ngang araw na i-propose ni tanda yung sa contract, halos hambalusin at bugbugin na ako nito eh. Pero ngayon, ang bait nya sa akin. Solid. Bakit ba? Nakokonsenya tuloy ako sa mga pinanggagawa ko sa kanya dati.

"Huy napano ka? Kanina ka pa nakatitig." she called at me.

"Sorry," I said. "Let's have fun, ok?"

She gave me funny look but smiled in agreement.

**

"Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa! Hahahahaha!" sigaw ni Gianna habang tumatawa at tumatakbo. "Waaaaa!! Tumigil ka nga! HAHAHAHA!"

"Oh, come on. Nilalayuan mo na asawa mo? Hahahaha." I teased as I run after her.

She giggled. "Oh, shut up. Hahaha."

I smirked then grabbed her when I got the chance. "Gotcha!"

"Waaaaaaaaaaaa! Hindeeeeee! HAHAHAHA!" she laughed as I tickle her. "Tama na-AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!"

"Ayoko. Hehe."

"Please-- HAHAHAHA! S-stop-- HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! NATHAN! AHAHAHAHA!"

Tumawa na rin ako tapos napa-upo kami sa buhanginan. Kanina pa kami naghahabulan dito sa beach. After naming kumain ng breakfast, pumunta na kami sa beach para magliwaliw. Nagpulot si Gianna ng shells, sumulat ng kung anu-anong mga salita sa sand, nag-foodtrip sa mga shacks at ngayon naman, naghahabulan. We did anything that can make Gianna laugh and smile.

I don't know why but I just love the sound of her laughter, the twinkle of her eyes, the warmth of her smile. Siguro kasi simula nung bata kami, kami na yung magkasama. Sa tagal ko syang kainisan at kasama noon, nasanay na ako na ganun sya. Na masaya sya. Yung kahit na paiyakin mo sya, maya't maya, may gagawin sya na ikakaiyak mo tapos mauuwi kayo sa tawanan ulit at inisan.

"Pagod na ako kakatakbo." she said. "At tumawa ng tumawa dahil sa kakakiliti mo. Tigilan mo na nga."

"Ok." I said. Pero, hinawakan ko parin sya sa may bewang nya at kiniliti.

We were laughing as she try to stay away from me.

"Nathan! AHAHAHA!"

I took a deep breath. "Ok, ok. Tama na nga. Hahaha,"

She giggled. Tapos nag-indian sit sya at nagsimula nanamang magsulat sa buhangin. Pinanood ko lang sya. Ngayon ko lang ulit sya napagmasdan ng maayos. Kasi kahit magkasama kami, hindi ko sya masyado inoobserbahan. Bago kasi kami kausapin ni tanda tungkol sa kontrata, hindi kami nagkikita ni Gianna. Ni hindi ko man kung ano ng nangyayari sa kanya eh. Kung marami na ba syang mga kaibigan. Kung masaya ba syang kasama si tanda. Kung kumusta sya sa school nila. Kung sikat ba sya sa school nila. Kung may mga manliligaw ba sya o kung nagka-boyfriend na ba sya. As in wala akong balita sa kanya. Pero ngayong nagka-chance na ako, sinasamantala ko na. At napansin ko ngang maraming nag-iba sa kanya. Tulad ng pananamit nya. I swear she dress like a fashion model. Ewan kung nasa damit ba nya or dahil sa pagdadala nya. Basta lahat ng isuot nyang damit, bagay nya. Tapos, marunong syang magayos. I mean, sure, she doesn't wear make up that often but, she sure still look so great, walang bahid ng pawis or dumi or anu man. Lgi syang malinis kaya naman lagi syang mukhang maayos. Tapos, yung way ng pagsasalita nya, mas confident na sya. Napansin ko din, matangkad din pala sya. And her body, excuse me, but, she became so.. err.. uhm.. yeah, you know.. sexy-and-oh-God-what-am-I-saying!? Anywaaaay, all I can say is.. erm. She's.. She's.. gorgeous. Ok. Enough said. I feel like I'm admitting a crime here.

But I swear she really is gorgeous. Impossible namang wala syang manliligaw or naging boyfriend. Too bad for them I'm married to her and she's my wife.

I smirked at the thought. Kawawa naman ang mga manliligaw at gustong manligaw sa kanya. Nagpapakahirap sila para maging sa kanila si Gianna pero ako, isang signature lang sa isang contract at isang 'I do' lang, kasama ko na sya. Kawawa talaga sila. NYAHAHAHAHA-- Ok, I think that sounded like a devil laugh. o_O

"Huy, anong tinatawa-tawa mo dyan?" tawag sa akin ni Gianna.

Lalo umaliwalas ang ngiti ko sa sinabi nya. Halata pala ako. Hehehe. "Ah, wala. So, tell me. May manliligaw ka ba sa school?"

Tumaas yung isa nyang kilay. "Nahh."

"Hm." So.. wala? Hm. Nice. "Boyfriend?"

"Stop joking around, Nathan,"

"Oh, come on,"

"Duhh. Wala ako. Kung meron ako, hindi mo ako kasama dito."

I shrugged. Tama nga naman sya. Nabara ako ah. "Eh ex?" I asked.

Nagkibit balikat lang sya habang sinusulat yung pangalan nya sa buhangin. "I guess a few or so."

"Oh, wow. Parang dami mo ng naging ex ah?" I grabbed a small stone then threw it at the sea.

"Not really. Around 3, I guess."

I nodded slowly. Ako, 80% ng school mates natin, naging fling ko. But.. I guess she doesn't need to hear that. "Mukhng nakapag-move on ka na ha?"

She rolled her eyes then stood up and stretched. "Like, duhh. Ang tagal na kaya non. That was last year pa."

"Hindi pa naman ganun katagal eh. So, bakit kayo nag-break nung ex mo?" tanong ko, nakaupo parin. Ewan pero, bigla akong na-curious sa lovelife ng babaeng to.

"Hm. He cheated on me." she winked.

"You kidding?" di ko makapaniwalang tanong. That guy cheated on HER? And, sorry but, she doesn't look like she gives a d*mn about it.

She shook her head. "No. Why would I?"

"And you're already fine?"

"Duhh,"

"Really?"

"Double duhh, Nathan," nagpamaywang pa sya. Oh sure, ipagmalaki ang body figure. *Roll eyes*

I pondered for a moment. kung madali syang nakapag-move on, hindi siguro serious. "It wasn't a serious relationship, right?"

She gave me are-you-kidding-me look. "It was serious, ok? Pinakilala ko pa nga sya kay lolo eh."

"TALAGA!?!"

"Yes! May tanung pa sa buhay pag-ibig ng napakaganda mong asawa?" she asked with a hint of annoyance.

Halata namang no choice ako kundi tumigil na sa pagtatanong tungkol sa ex nya kaya naman iba nalang tinanung ko. "How could you be fine? You were serious but he cheated."

Gianna stared right into my eyes. "Bakit, Nathan? Am I supposed to cry my eyes out because he cheated on me? No. Sya lang ba ang meron ako? No. Mamatay ba ako pag nawala sya? NO. He just cheated on me. and I accepted the fact that he CHEATED on me. Why? I dunno. Maybe because I think it was God's way of saying that that guy wasn't the one for me. That I'll just be miserable if I stay with him. That he wasn't the one that I need. That I should just forget my feelings for him even though I loved him with all my heart because it'll be just pointless.

Everything has a reason. Why that guy cheated on me, why we broke up and why I'm married to you. I trust God that He knows what to do with me so, I'm fine eventhough that guy cheated on me."

Napayuko ako at napakamot ng batok sa sinabi nya. Mahaba pero tinamaan ako. Kasi, ako, hindi ko ginawa yung mga ginawa nya. Nagmukmok ako, nagalit sa mundo. Nangdamay pa ngh ibang tao. Nagalit pa. I filled my heart with hatred to Gwen. I can't believe Gianna experienced the same as me. But she treated it right. Not like me. Kulang na lang, sirain ko sarili ko dahil sa galit.

"So," Gianna started. Napatingala ako sa kanya. "Tara, bili na tayong souvenirs,"

I grinned and nodded. Maybe I should just forget about Gwen. It's not that easy but, if Gianna can forget about her ex, I can do it too.

**

I pressed the camera's capture button. Natawa naman si Gianna. Nakasuot kasi ako ng wig at sumbrero kaya nakakatawa talaga itsura ko. Pati ako natatawa sa sarili ko. XD

I continued my girly act. "OMG. I am so pretty, no!?"

"AHAHAHA. Sira ka talaga, Nathan! Hahaha." tawa nya tapos kinuha yung camera sa akin at kinuhanan ako ng picture.

Di ko na rin napigilan ang sarili ko sa pagtawa kaya naman binalik ko na yung wig at sumbrero. Napailing naman si Gianna pero nakatawa parin.

"Nathan, look," tawag ni Gianna sa akin tapos may pinakitang bracelet. "Bagay kaya to kay Destiny?"

"Hmm." I said with a girly voice that made her laugh again. "It's pretty like me. So, I think it's a yes."

"Stop it, will you. Hahaha. You're driving me crazy." she told me tapos inabot sa nagtitinda yung bracelet at iba pa nyang pinamili para mapa-plastic. Doon ko lang napansin na tinatawanan pala ako nunhg tindera.

I just smiled at them and shrugged. Nahiya ako bigla. Tengene. XD

"why don't you buy some shirts?" I suggested. Tapos kinuha ko yung camera at nagpicture ng nagpicture. Ok. I know this pictures are stolen shots but, thy're pretty good, you know!

"Good idea." she said.

Lumapit kami sa isang shack na puro shirt yung tinitinda. Si Gianna naman, puro turo ng turo. Tapos sinasabi nalang size. Nakakarami na sya ng turo huh. Ano to, ibebenta nya? xD

"Kay Denice, Destiny, Ashley, Aaron, Renz, Vince, Elisha.." bulong nya. "Ano kaya size ni Sam?"

I hissed when I heard that name. Sam. Psh.

Humarap sa akin si Gianna. "Nathan, pahiram ng kataan. Medyo ka-size mo si Sam eh."

"Ahh. Ayoko."

"Dali na."

"Asa."

"Dali na sabi."

"Ays,"

Napasimangot sya. "Arte arte. Hmph. Kung si Sam lang kasama ko, pagbibigyan ako. Tss."

I bit my tongue as I try not to talk back and be pissed. "Fine! Asan na yung pesteng damit!?"

"Eto o." inis parin nyang sabi sa akin tapos binato yung damit sa akin.

Sinuot ko naman. Badtrip. Ba't kailangan substitute ako? Scratch that. Ba't kailangan nyang bilhan ng pasalubong yung lalaking yun!? At talagang na-compare pa ako sa kanya. Parang mas gusto pa tuloy syang kasama ni Gianna. Tss.

I hissed when she gave me a thumbs up. Tapos hinubad ko na yung damit.

Epal yung Sam na yan. Tss. Buset!

Chapter 27: Dumb Nathan.

*Gianna's POV*

"GIANNAAAAAAAA!! BAKLAAA!!" tawag ni Ashley pagbaba ko ng hagdan.

Natawa naman ako sa kanya. Ang OA nya kasi eh. Dinaig si Aaron and Denice. Di naman halatang excited eh no? xD "Para namang pumunta ako sa ibang bansa. One week lang ako nawala, bakla!"

"Hi, Gi," bati ni Denice tapos yinakap ako. Sumunod sa kanya si Aaron na ginulo buhok ko. Ang aga aga, nang-iinis agad. Hay nako. XD

Na-upo kami nila Denice and Ashley sa sofa. Si Aaron naman, dumiretso sa kusina. Maghahanap daw ng pagkain ang mokong.

"So kumusta ang honeymoon?" tanong ni Denice na agad namang dinagdagan pa ng isang tanong ni Ashley.

"Magiging ninang na ba kami?" Ashley asked maliciously.

Inabot ko yung throw pillow at ibinato kay Ashley. "Sira! Hindi ko papatulan yung topaking yun!"

At, nagsimula na po akong magreklamo at magkwento sa kanilang dalawa. Pero syempre, di ko na sinali yung mala-teleserye na nangyari sa akin sa beach. "Biruin nyo guys, ang ayos na namin eh! Maayos na. Di na kami nag-aaway eh! Masaya naman sya kasama eh! Walang lumalapit sa kanyang babae, di nakasumpong ang topak, lagi kaming naglilibot, yun na! Tapos, nung namimili na kaming pasalubong, may pinasukat lang ako sa kanyang damit, tinopak na! Nag-away nanaman kami. Pati pauwi, nag-aaway kami. Di kami nag-uusap. Bahala sya!"

Grr! Grabe! Iniisip ko palang yung ginawa nya sa akin, umiinit na ang ulo ko! Sobrang nakakainis kasi talaga. Ang ganda na kasi ng pakikitungo nya sa akin. Napaisip pa nga ako eh. Baka nga magkakasundo kami. Pero, BOOM! Inaway nanaman ako dahil lang sa damit!

"Baka naman pangbabae yung pinasukat mo sa kanya? Hehe." pangbubwisit pa ni Denice.

I gave her a What-the-fudge look. "Denice, panglalaki ang pinasuot ko. Kung pangbabae yung pinasuot ko sa kanya, baka patay na ako ngayon sa kakatawa."

Napakibit balikat naman sya habang tumatawa kasama si Ashley. "Sabagay."

Sakto namang babatuhin ko sana sila ng throw pillow (pinaninindigan ko po kasi ang pangalan ng throw pillow. tinawag pang throw pillow to kung di ito-throw!?) nung nakita kong pababa si Nathan.

Tss. There he is. Walking like a king in his jeans, wet hair and shirtless body. Dmn. I hate that body of him. I swear I hate it. Because of that stupid (hot, actually.) and annoying (great body. oh, fudge. I'm having second thoughts on his body. -___-) body of his, girls go crazy because of him. Really. What is there to see?!

"Emeged, bakla. Bet ko ang body ni jowa mo bakla." sabi ni Ashley na medyo ikinainis ko.

"Shut up, that's mine," I retorted before thinking.

Natakip ko yung kamay ko bigla sa bibig ko nung narealize ko yung lumabas na mga salita galing sa bibig ko. Oh, fudge. Ba't ko nasabi yon?!? What the eff. =_________=

"Uhm... Huh?" nasabi nalang ni Denice sa akin. Waaaaa~!

"Ansaveh naman non bakla?" sabi naman ni Ashley tapos hinimas-himas pa yung baba. Parang imbestigador lang eh.

Naisalo ko ang kamay ko sa noo ko. Gianna naman kasi eh! Di muna nag-iisip bago magsalita! Kung anu-ano pang kaweirduhan ang sinasabi. Sigurado, wild nanaman ang iniisip ni Ashley tungkol sa sinabi mo!

"Hoy, Gianna, nakita mo si manang Beth?" tanong ni Nathan sa akin paglapit nya.

I turned slowly to him and gave him a leave-me-alone glare. "Mukha ba akong hanapan ng mga taong hindi mo makita? O kaya, mukha ba akong mapa ni Dora na kayang ituro kung saan napunta ang taong nawawala? HA? ANUNG FEELING MO NYAN? FEELING DORA KA NA TAPOS FEELING MO AKO SI MAP?! TAPOS ANO? SI BOOTS NAMAN IPAPAHANAP MO?! WALANGYA NAMAN. ANG LAYO KO NAMAN KAY MAP! AT HALLER! AYAN SA HARAP MO SI BOOTS! KATABI NI DENICE! KAYA WAG MONG IPAPAHANAP SI BOOTS SA AKIN!!"

"Ha? Ano bang pinagsasabi mo? Tinatanong ko lang kung asaan si manang Beth."

Umiling-iling naman si Denice. "Gi, nakasumpong ka-OA-yan mo? Anong meron? Hoy, Nathan. Tapatin mo nga ako. May ginawa ka bang di kanais-nais dito?"

"HA? ASA!" nakasimangot na sabi ni Nathan. Tapos, tinitigan nya ako at iniwan kami.

"Problema nun?" bulong ko kina Denice.

In-snob ako ni Ashley. Napano tong baklang to? "Hmp. Boots pala huh?"

I bit my lip. Kung anu-ano pala nasabi ko kanina. xD "Uy, joke lang naman yun Ashley. Ganda mo palang. Ahehehe."

"Ay nako bakla, matagal ko ng alam yan." says Ashley.

At that same time biglang may pumasok sa front door.

"HERSHEYS!!!"

"Hersheys?!" sabay na sabi ni Ashley at Denice. napatayo pa nga si Denice eh. xD

But I ignored them and stood up. "Sam! Waaaaa~!"

Next thing I knew, I was tightly hugged by Sam.

"Hersheys! Na-miss kita, solid!"

"Can't. Breathe." I gasped.

"Ay." binitiwan ako ni Sam. "Sorry, Hersheys."

Nagtawanan naman kaming lahat. Pati si Aaron na saktong bumalik galing sa kusina kaninang yakap-yakap ako ni Sam ay natawa. Nakakatawa naman kasi expression ni Sam. Parang nahulihan lang na gumagawa ng kasalanan. Hahaha.

But before I know it, Nathan was pulling me outside the house.

**

*Denice's POV*

Nagulat ako nung biglang may nakatama sa akin habang nakatayo ako. Tapos, nakita ko nalang si Nathan na hinila si Gianna palabas ng bahay. Napano yun?

Nabalot kami ng katahimikan kasi hindi lang naman ako yung nagulat. Lahat kami nagulat sa inasta ni Nathan. Bakit ba naman kasi nya biglang hinila si Gianna? Tapos yung kanina, tinawag nyang 'Gianna' si Gi instead na 'ugly stick' na lagi nyang tawag dati kay Gianna. Di kaya may happenings and miracles na nangyari sa honeymoon? Hmm.

"What was that?" tanong ni Aaron ko.

Napakibit-balikat nalang ako. Si Ashley naman, napatunganga lang sa pintuan. halatang gulat na gulat din.

"So it's true." I heard Sam whisper.

I frowned at him. "What's true?"

Sam faced me slowly. I saw hopelessness and sadness in his face. "That they're married."

Nanlaki ang mga mata ko. As far as I know. Wala dapat makakaalam sa school na kasal na si Nathan at Gianna. Si Destiny lang dapat yung makakaalam kasi sya mag-isa yung nakatuklas. Pero, hindi naman siguro pagsasabi ni Destiny sa iba di ba? Unang-una, nangako sya kay Gianna.

"How did you know?" tanong naman ni Ashley.

Malungkot na umupo si Sam sa upuan bago nagsalita.

"The Miguels are famous in business society." says Sam. "Mr. Martin prevented the public to know about the wedding but the business society knows about it."

"That's right." I voice said from behind. I turned and saw lolo Martin walking towards us. "Konti lang ang nakakaalam na kasal na si Gianna at Nathan. And they're mostly from the upper society."

I think I heard someone sigh.

"How could you make them marry each other? Lagi silang nag-aaway." sabi ni Aaron.

Lolo Martin smirked. "That's because Nathan's inlove to Gianna. And for Gianna, I think she's halfway there."

Impossible. Too impossible. But, wait. Nathan calling Gianna with her name? Teasing her all the time? Taking her attention? And the way he treats her is very different from the way he treats other girls. It's possible that Nathan do love Gianna.

Sam stood up suddenly. "I don't know about Gianna, sir. But it seems like your guess about Nathan is true."

"It's not a guess, silly boy," ngiti ni lolo Martin habang dahan-dahang umiling. "It's a fact. And it seems like you're the same as Nathan. You're inlove with my dear Gianna."

Sam was quiet for a moment. "W-well. I am. Am I that obvious?"

"Unfortunately, papa Sam." answered Ashley.

I heard Aaron give a snorted laugh. "Duh."

Napailing naman si lolo Martin habang tumatawa ng mahina. "I knew it."

Sam gave us a shy smile. Oh look. How adorable *u* "It's a secret then, sir. I don't want to complicate our friendship. I'm fine making her happy."

Aww. Gi got a nice, sweet bestfriend here. I've decided. I like this guy for Gianna. Grabe. Ang haba ng hair ng friend ko!

**

*Nathan's POV*

I gritted my teeth as I drive. Nakakainis. Ba't kailangan nya pang yakapin yung asungot na Sam na yun?! Nakakabadtrip! Ganyan ba dapat umasta yung isang babaeng kasal na? Hindi! So ba't sya ganun umasta?! Fudge!

"Hoy!" screams Gianna. "Saan mo ba ako balak dalhin?! Bigla kang nanghihila tapos kung saan-saan mo ako dadalhin! ang tino ko ng kasama sina Sam eh!"

"Shut up!"

"Shut up ka mag-isa mo! Upakan kita eh! Pasalamat ka nagdadrive ka!"

"Thank you, then!"

"Gagi! Baliw! Sira!"

She crossed her arms on her chest and faced thge window, clearly pissed.

I stuck my tongue out fast. Gusto mo palang kasama yung Sam na yun ha? Magdusa ka dyan. Sa akin ka sasama sa pagtingin nung bagong bahay natin. Hindi kita iuuwi hangga't hindi umaalis yung Sam na yun. WAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

"Para kang baliw." Gianna muttered.

"Heh." singhal ko naman sa kanya. Eh nakakainis eh!

"Heh ka din!" singhal din nya sa akin tapos in-snob ako. Tama ba yan?! "Ba't ba ayaw mo sabihin kung saan tayo pupunta?! GUSTO MO AKONG TUMALON PALABAS NG PESTENG SASAKYAN NA TO?!"

Huh. "As if you'll do tha-- HEY!"

She suddenly opened the door which is a very stupid and dangerous act!

"TELL ME!!" she screamed. Oh, gosh. She's scary when angry.

I took a deep breath then entered a subdivision, ignored by the guard because of the sticker on my windshield. "Sa bagong bahay natin."

Her change was instant. From an angry tigress to a tame kitty. "Bagong bahay?! Meron tayo?! Talaga?! Saan?!"

"Ay hindi! Lumang bahay! Wala man! Joke lang yon!" I sarcastically told her. Like, duh. Kakasabi lang di ba?!

She hissed. "Better not piss me off, you idiot."

Hindi na lang ako sumagot. Instead, nag-park ako sa tapat ng isang bahay.

"Teka, ito na yun?! Ito na?! Wow! Ang ganda!" Gianna exclaimed.

Natawa ako sa kanya. Para lang naman kasi syang bata na binigyan ng doll house at sinabihan na pwede syang tumira sa doll house nyang yon.

I gave her the key as I kick the invisible stones. Magustuhan nya kaya yung loob? Sure, nagustuhan nya yung style ng bahay sa labas. Pero iba naman yung sa loob.

I heard her insert the key on the doorknob and turn it. Then, she slowly opened the door.

I think I can hear my heartbeat as she do that. Sana magustuhan nya. Ako pumili ng design ng bahay na yan. Nakakahiya naman kung panget ang kalabasan nung napili kong design.

"WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!"

Napatakbo ako papasok nung marinig kong sumigaw si Gianna. "Napano ka?!"

Air was knocked out of my lungs when she suddenly jumped into me.

"Nathan! Ang ganda!" she said.

Nakahinga ako ng maluwag. Thank God nagustuhan nya. I chosed the design which was cozy and homey. Yung pagpasok mo palang, at home na yung feeling mo. Yung parang pwede mong guluhin yung mga gamit tapos ayusin ulit.

"Wala pang masyadong gamit." I told her. It's true. The living room, dining room and yung kwarto namin yung may gamit. I'm planning to take Gianna out to buy other things for our house. So far, di ko pa naiisip kung kelan. But.. Wait... What if I take her out on a shopping now? It isn't a bad idea. "Wanna go shopping? Bili tayo ng gamit na gusto mo ilagay sa bahay?"

She hugged me, making me out of balanced. Buhat buhat ko kasi sya kanina. Pero ngayon, my back is throbbing because of the impact I made with the floor.

"Waaa! Ok ka lang!?" tanong nya sa akin habang nasa itaas ko sya.

I nodded. Tapos umupo ako dahan-dahan. It was then when I noticed how near her face to mine.

And as she look into my eyes, I hear myself catching my breath.

**

"Are you effing kidding me?!" Gianna groaned. "You want me to enter the mall. In. This. Clothes. You've got to be joking."

"Sure. What's wrong with your clothes?" I asked as I look at her shorts, cartoon shirts and slippers.

"Are you crazy? Wait. Are you really a casanova? How come you don't know the way girl's think?" she snorted. Wala namang mali sa suot nya ah? "how come they fall for a guy like you?"

"Erm. Because I'm handsome?" I answered with a frown.

"Oh, shut up. I am not going to that mall wearing this,"

Napabuntong hininga nalang ako. "Fine. Ibibili kita sa loob. Now, pwede na tayong pumasok?"

She stared at me for a moment then nodded. We stepped out of the car then entered the mall. Agad naman syang dumiretso sa Bench habang hila-hila ako. Tapos, kumuha sya ng damit at dumiresto sa fitting room. I waited outside it patiently.

I think this is the perfect time to reflect on what I almost did to her. God, ano bang nangyayari sa akin? I find it annoying when someone else makes Gianna happy. It irritates me when she's someone else. I hate it when someone else touches Gianna. Halata naman kanina. Masyaso akong nagpadalos-dalos at hinila sya sa pagkakayakap ni Sam. Dapat nga hindi ko naman ngayon ipapakita yung bahay namin. Pero nung nakita kong magkayakap sila ni Sam, taking her away from him was the first thing that came into my mind. Nakakainis lang! Ano bang ginagawa sa akin nung babaeng yun!? For heaven's sake, I almost kissed her earlier! More

surprisingly, I feel like a stupid first timer because I felt so shy after that thought entered my mind!

"Hi, Nathan." greeted a voice which made me look up. I found one of my ex-fling staring at me. "I missed you."

Before I know it, she was kissing me.

I didn't kissed her back. But, her kissing me was enough for Gianna to see.

"Manwhore." she cursed. Then, she gave me a disgusted look and headed for the counter to pay.

I stood there dumbstruck. But I regained my senses when my ex-fling kept on pestering me.

"Oh. Another fling?" she says. "Too bad she's not used on having a fling like you. Gosh. She looked like an idiot."

I pushed her rather harshly after hearing that. "She's my wife, you slut!"

She stared at me with mouth hanging open. But I didn't paid attention on her. Instead, I ran after Gianna. God. She must be mad. I did told her that I'm tired of being a casanova. Maybe she expected that I'll stop doing those kind of things as soon as we're married. I did stop it, right? I never paid attention to the girls that were flirting me when we were at the beach.

"Gianna!" I called after her when I saw her back. "Teka lang!"

She ignored me and continued on walking. I had to run after her. I pulled her hand when I reached her to make her face me.

"Don't touch me!" she yelled. We were attracting attention now. Pinagtitinginan na kami ng mga dumadaan.

"It's not what you think! I'm not kissing her! She just kissed me! I swear." I told her.

She gave me a cold look that made my heart go frozen. "I hate you. Manwhore. Slut. Flirt. I hate you!"

"Gianna. Please." I pleaded. She must believe me. Nagsasabi ako ng totoo, di ba? Back-up-an nyo nga ako.

"I hate you! You just kiss around whenever you want and it makes me sick!"

"I stopped doing that."

"Shut up!"

"You're the only one that I truly kissed,"

"I don't ca--"

I shut her up when I pulled her close to me and kissed her.

And like before, I felt this tingling sensation in my heart that makes my mind wonder what it is.

Chapter 28: Crazy for You.

*Gianna's POV*

It feels like the world stop when Nathan's lips touched mine. I forgot that we were standing in the middle of the crowd.

"I swear I didn't kiss her." he muttered as he ended the kiss.

I didn't answer. Because I forgot that I was mad at him.

Wait...

I was mad at him..

Yeah, I am! Oh, fudge! I'm mad at this guy, I hate him!

With that thought in mind, I pushed him away forcedly. "What the hell is wrong with you?!"

"Gi.."

"Stop that! stop kissing me after kissing some other girl! It's disgusting!" I stormed away, leaving him dumbfounded.

Nakakainis! Fudge! It's so disgusting! Indirect kiss with that flirt. Eew! I can't even. Aarggh!

I wiped my lips harshly. Nakakadiri talaga! Ang lakas ng loob nyang halikan ako pagkatapos nyang halikan yung malanding yun! Inaya-aya nya pa ako mamili ng gamit tapos makikipaglandian lang pala sya. Nakakakulo ng dugo! Fudge!

Attracting attention because of my irritated expression and dark aura, I decided to go home. Buti nalang may naiwan na pera sa suot kong shorts kanina. Kung hindi, maglalakad ako pauwi.

Sumakay ako sa taxi paglabas ko ng mall. Pagdating ko ng bahay (yung bahay ko kasama si lolo Martin. hindi yung bahay namin ni pesteng Nathan) nadatnan ko si Sam na nakaupo sa may veranda.

"Cupcake..." he called when he saw me.

"Sam," I smiled at him.

Tumayo sya at sinalubong ako. "Sabi ko na uuwi ka din agad eh. Buti nalang naghintay ako."

I dunno why but I was touched by him. This is why I love my bestfriend. No matter how irritated I am, he can never fail to make me smile. "You were here all along?"

"I will always be here for you."

"Ang deep ah. Hahaha."

"Corny no?" he chuckled.

I smiled and patted his cheek. "Yep. Don't worry. Sanay na ako."

Sam grinned and pulled me inside the house. Wala na sina Ashley kaya naman si lolo nalang nadatnan ko na kasalukuyang may binabasang mga papeles ata.

"O, Gi, apo. Nakabalik ka na pala. Si Nathan?" tanong agad sa akin ni lolo.

Parang uminit ulit yung ulo kong nung narinig ko yung pangalan ni Nathan. Pero pinilit ko paring ngumiti. "Iniwan ko 'lo."

"Bakit naman?"

"Trip ko." sagot ko nalang.

"Hersheys, sumagot ka nga ng maayos." sita ni Sam.

I bit my lip. "Sorry 'lo. Hehehe."

Lolo Martin chuckled. "Batang ire. Kung si Nathan, hinahayaan kong ganun yung pakikitungo sa akin. Eh mas malala pa sayo yun eh."

"Eh walangya yun eh." I told them. Sam and lolo laughed together. Anong nakakatawa sa sinabi ko? "Anyway 'lo, dito muna kami ni Sam ha?"

Lolo smiled and waved his hand dismissively.

"Thanks, 'lo." I said then pulled Sam.

**

*Sam's POV*

"Waaaaaaaaaaa! Hintayin mo ako! Hahahaha!" tawag ni Gianna sa akin.

I can't help but laugh. "Hahaha! Mahuli, maglilibre ng ice cream!"

I heard her laugh that made my stomach flip. Actually, kinikilig ako. HAHAHAHA. Nakakahiya. Grabe. Sana hindi nya mapansin.

"Sam! May sasabihin ako, wait lang!" she called.

I slowed my bike down to match her phase. We were currently having a bike race and, like I said, the loser will treat the winner an ice cream. Actually, I want to lose on purpose. But that would be ungentleman so I decided to trust Gianna's ability. Win or lose, she's the queen of my heart.

Ang corny ko. HAHAHAHA.

"Ano yun, apple pie?" I asked Gianna.

She giggled and, boom. The butterflies on my stomach went crazy. "Ayoko na. I admit defeat. Ililibre na kita ng ice cream."

"Like, right now?" I asked.

"Yup. Diretso na tayo sa 7 11. Ibibili kita ng ice cream." she nodded.

I grinned. "Psh. That's unfair. Haha."

"Pano naman?"

"Nagpakapagod tayo tapos minsan ka lang mag-give up at sasabihing ililibre mo nalang ako? Unfair!"

She pulled the break of her bike. I did the same. "What should we do then?"

"Ako maglilibre! Haha."

"What? Mas unfair yun. I lost."

I shook my head. "Hayaan mo na, Toblerone. Baka maubos pera mo sa dami ng kakainin ko."

"How about we split it?"

I stared at her pretty brown eyes. Oh, gosh. How can I ever say no to what you want? "O-ok. Haha."

"Great! Tara na!" she smiled then stepped on the pedal. I followed her.

We reached 7 11 in a short time. Pagkapasok na pagkapasok ni Gianna, kumuha sya agad nang tatlong 1 pint ng chocolate ice cream tapos nagbayad sa counter kasama ako. Nung nakapagbayad na kami, excited syang lumabas ng 7 11.

I smiled and asked for plastic spoons to the counter. Binigyan naman nila ako kaya sumunod na ako kay Gianna. Nadatnan ko syang nakasakay na sa bike nya at hinihintay ako.

"Sa park nalang natin kainin." she told me.

I grinned. "Sige."

We headed to the park in the late afternoon sun. Tapos, naupo kami sa isa sa mga bench at nagsimula ng kumain. While eating, I can't help but watch Gianna. Then, I remembered earlier. When she arrived looking pissed.

"Tootsie roll," I called.

"Hmm?"

"Ba't parang inis na inis ka kaninang pagdating mo?"

"Eh kasi naman, sinama-sama pa ako ni Nathan sa mall tapos makikipaglandian lang pala sya." she answered the ate a spoonful of ice cream. "Kainis lang."

"You like him."

"What? Of course not! He's just an idiot."

"Ok."

She let the subject drop. And I just stared at her face while eating. Ang swerte ni Nathan. My chance syang makasama ng matagal si Gianna. Napakasalan nya pa. I would give anything just to exchange place with him. What if ako yung napangasawa ni Gianna? Everything would be perfect. Kung pwede lang makipagpalit kay Nathan, matagal ko ng ginawa.

God, how come I love this girl so much?

I know I should have already outgrowned this feeling but, it seems like as years pass, the feelings just grew deeper. It's so silly because we were just kids when I felt this feeling for Gianna.

"Sam," Gianna called.

I smirked. I love the way she calls my name. "Yes, leche flan?"

"Leche flan? Haha." she laughed. "Ba't naman leche flan? Ba't nga pala ang hilig mo sa pagtawaag sa akin ng pagkain?"

"Wala lang. Favorite ko mga yun eh," ikaw kasi pinaka-gusto ko at kahit na pagsama-samahin lahat ng favorite ko, walng tutumbas sayo. HAHAHAHAHA. Walangya, ang corny ko na talaga!

She giggled and made the butterflies in my stomach go wild. But, I stayed quiet and still. Baka mahalata akong kinikilig. Hehe.

"So, ba't ka naman naging casanova?" asks Gianna.

"Oh, that's easy. Because--" I stopped. Bakit nga ba? I glanced at Gianna. She was obviously waiting for an answer. Right then, I found out. "Because I was looking for you."

"By kissing girls? Haha." napailing sya habang tumatawa. "You're crazy."

Crazy for you. Crazy for you, baby. I'm crazy for you~. *Tune of Crazy for you. XD*

Grabe. Napapakanta ako ah. Haha. "Well, It's the fastest way."

"Sira. Haha."

"Oh, stop. It's embarassing."

"Ok, ok. Hehehe,"

"Kisses naman eh."

"I'm stopping,"

I pouted. Lol, I want to laugh at myself. Nagiging isip bata ako pag kasama si Gianna. Maybe I am crazy.

"You know, Sam, if you came a bit earlier, our lives would be different." she said thoughtfully while watching the orange, red, purple and pink colors of the sky.

I stared at her. I get the feeling that she wasn't talking about earlier.

She was talking about if I came back to her a little more early into her life. But, I guess I'm too little too late.

She turned to me and smiled. "Tunaw na ice cream ko ng konti. Yung sayo?"

I showed her my empty ice cream container. "Ubos na eh," she says. "Takaw mo talaga! Hahaha."

I grinned. At the sound of her laugh, I decided. It's never too late for love.

**

Oh, gosh. This is hard.

I paced back and forth in my room. Ugh. Should I call her or not? Baka naman tulog na si Gi. God, I'm going crazy. Help me please.

Should I call? Or not?

I just want to take her out and give a christmas gift to her.

Nakaligo na ako, nakakain, nakapagpahinga, nakanuod at kung anu-ano pa. But, I still can't gather my courage to call and ask her out! God, I feel like a teen ager!

Oh, wait. I am a teen ager! Oh, no. I'm too nervous that I forgot that I was a teen ager.

AND I'M HAVING SWEATY PALM!! WAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!

Oh, shut up! I told myself. Ugh. I should calm down. Calm down. Calm. Down. Inhale. Exhale.

Inhale.

Exhale.

Call her.

Not.

Call her.

Not.

Call her?

Hmm.

CALL HER!!

F-fine!

I took my phone at my bedside table and dialled Gianna. Nung nawala nanaman lakas ng loob ko, ibaba ko na sana. Kaya lang sumagot na sya.

God, help me.

"O, Sam? Napatawag ka?" she asked.

"Ah. Ano eh. Ano kasi." I bit my lip and continued phasing back and forth. And, waaaaaaaaa! My sweaty palm. =_____________=

"Ano? Haha. Napano ka? Ay! Teka lang ha?" she told me.

"Ha? Sige sige." I nodded then tried to regain my confidence.

"Ano ba, Nathan. Lubayan mo ako. Ang kulit mo! Isa pa, sasapakin na kita!" she yelled on the background. Whoa. Ang brutal ng my labs ko. Hahaha.

"Sino yan? Si Sam no? Di ka pa ba nagsasawang kausap yan?" narinig ko namang tanong ni Nathan.

"Huh! HINDI! KASI SYA, MATINO AT MAY SENSE KAUSAP!! NOW, STAY AWAY!!" Gianna yelled. I couldn't help but smile. Pinupuri ako ni Gianna o! Hehehe.

I think I regained my confidence on what she said.

"Sorry about that." she told me.

"It's ok."

"What were you saying?"

"Ah. Ano. W-wanna.." oh, no. I'm stammering! Not cool. "Ahem. Wanmagowatmorowwitme?"

Oh, fudge. What did I just say?

"Huh? Sorry. I didn't catch that." she said.

I took a deep breath. It's now or never. "I said, do you want to go out tomorrow.. With me?"

"Ah. Haha. Di ka pa ba nagsasawa sa akin?" she laughed.

Never. "Di naman. So? Will you?"

"Sure."

"Great! 4 PM. I'll pick you up." I think I can here my heart make a flip and dive.

"It's a date then." she laughed. Siguro, friendly date lang sa kanya to. Pero sa akin, daig ko pa ang nanalo ng contest!

"Deal." I said.

"See you. Bye!"

"Yeah, bye!" I answered, feeling like I'm floating.

She ended the call then I threw my phone on my bed. Minutes passed and I just stood there. But when I realized, she agreed, I punched the air and jumped up and down.

He shoots, he scores!

Lol, pero kung tutuusin, pinagpapawisan ako sa kaba kanina. HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

Chapter 29: She's dumb. Poor Sam.

"Hi, Sam!" bati ko kay Sam nung nakalapit ako sa kanya. "Sorry I'm late. Matagal ka bang naghintay?"

He smiled and shook his head. "You're not late. Maaga lang ako."

Dapat susunduin nya ako eh. Kaya lang naalala ko, bibili pa pala akong gifts nila. so, sabi ko sa kanya, hintayin nalang nya ako. Pero, heto, filipino time ako. XD Buti nalang mabait tong bestfriend ko. XD

"Tara na?" I asked.

Sam grinned and took my hand. I wonder what we will be doing. Z Rider? Tom's World? World's of Fun? Ano pa nga kasi? Hmm. Ay ewan. Nalimutan ko yung isa. XD

"Saan tayo punta?" I asked.

"You'll see."

May ganyan pang nalalaman tong lalaking to. Ba't di nalang kaya sabihin. Na-curious lang ako. Haha.

At, nakita ko nga saan kami pumunta. Sa Quantum.

Walangya lang. Quantum nalang, nalimutan ko pa ang existence. HAHAHAHA.

Dahil na rin sa tagal ko ng di pumupunta dito, (nalimutan ko na nga yung existence eh. XD) hinila ko si Sam para bumili ng tokens. Magbabayad na sana ako nung pinigilan nya ako.

"Cadburry, ako na magbabayad. Ako nag-aya eh." he said.

"Weh."

"Oo nga. Adik ka. Haha." he laughed. Then, hinayaan ko na syang magbayad.

Nung nakuha na namin yung mga tokens, hinila ko sya agad sa larong 'Time Crisis'. Favorite ko lang naman po kasi to. Barilan and action. Saan ka pa? HAHAHAHA. BRUTAL LANG. PASENSYA. XD

"Sam, dali! I need back up!"

"Hahaha. Di ka naman brutal no lollipop?" he teased while shooting the enemies.

I giggled. Kinarir ko ho ang laro. XD "Wag ka nga. Haha. Tagal na nung huli akong naglaro nito. Miss ko na laruin."

He winked at me. "Play your heart out, love."

"What? Owemgee. Talaga?"

"Of course. Tutulungan pa kita." Sam nodded.

I gave him a wide smile. "I could really hug you right now."

Napatitig sya sa akin. Then, I dunno if it's just my imagination but, I think he blushed.

Darn, he's adorable like a kid. I just want to pinch his cheeks and hug him. xD

Nag-focus sya ulit sa nilalaro namin tapos, dun ko lang naalala, naglalaro nga pala kami!

"O! Cupcake! Ba't nabawasan yung health natin?!" shocked yang tanong.

Natawa naman ako. Nakakatawa kasi yung expression nya eh. "Eh kasi naman, may time limit yan. Napatagal yata yung kwentuhan natin. Haha."

"Aw. Hahaha." he grinned at me. "Galingan natin, strawberry."

I nodded then, naglaro na kami. Tumatawa minsan na parang baliw. xD Basta nag-eenjoy lang. I never had fun like this before. Sure, it was fun hanging out with Aaron, Ashley, Denice and Destiny. But, having fun with Sam was different. It's like I'm back in time where I'm with my parents and fatty Sammy. It's a warm feeling.

**

Owmaygass. Turn left! Turn right! Waaaa! Mauunahan na ako ni Sam! Hahaha.

I laughed out loud. "Sam!"

"Yeah?"

"Pag natalo ako, ayoko na! Hahahaha!"

"Whatever you want, tart!" he answered.

I smiled and tried to overtake Sam's car. We're having a race. Bago na nilalaro namin. Bakit? Eh kasi naman natapos na namin yung Time Crisis! Hahahaha! At alam mo ba kung naka-ilan kaming tokens? 32! HAHAHAHAHAHA! Pasensya. Naadik kami! Haha.

"Oh, no you won't, chocolate." he teased then drove faster. Waaaaaaa! Wala na. Talo na ako! Hahaha.

"Owmaygas! No! HAHAHA!" tawa ko naman. Nakisali rin sa akin si Sam.

But, like I predicted, natalo ako. HAHAHA.

"Ayoko na." I told Sam then giggled. "Lagi akong talo. Iba naman. Haha."

"Sure." he smiled then offered his hand. I took it and we walked around, looking for another game that we can play.

Maybe we looked like a couple. But, I don't care. I'm comfortable with Sam. And, you know what? I actually like him. I mean, I have this silly crush on him. Well, who wouldn't? He's

handsome, kind, nice, sweet and all. Maybe he's a bit childish but, I think that's a cute side of him. Haha. Kung sanang magkauagli sila ni Nathan, di malabong magkasundo kami ni Nathan.

Wait...

WHY AM I COMPARING NATHAN TO SAM?!

Psh. Nevermind.

"Chocolate, let's sing." yaya ni Sam.

"Huh? Ah. Sige." I nodded.

He smiled at me sweetly then pulled me at the... What's this? Videoke? Or karaoke? Haha. Basta sa nagkakanta.

Lumapit sya dun sa lalagyan ng songbook tapos namili ng kanta. Di ata pwede kunin yung songbook eh. So nasa tabi kami nung machine habang namimili si Sam at pinipindot yung mga numbers. Madami-dami din sya pinili. Mahilig pala magkanta to? Haha. Sabagay. May laban naman ang boses. Lol.

Nung tapos na sya mamili, naupo muna kami. May nagkakanta pa kasi eh. And, all the while, he never let go of my hand.

I think that is very sweet. :">

Nung tapos na yung nagkakanta, dun palang binitawan ni Sam yung kamay ko para umakyat sa built-in stage.

It made me smile when he started singing I'll Never Go. Eh kasi naman sa akin lang sya nakatingin. :> xD

"I'll never go far away from you. Even the sky will tell you, that I need you so. For this is all I know. I'll never go far away from you." He stared at me while singing. Like he was telling me that he'll never leave me."

The thought made me smile.

I'm really lucky to have this guy as my bestfriend. :)

He ended the song then winked at me. Natawa naman ako. Pero, hindi pa dyan nagtatapos. May next pang kanta. Haha.

The next songs were I'm Yours by Jason Mraz, My Life Would Suck Without You by Kelly Clarkson (hinila nya pa ako. Makisabay daw ako sa kanya. xD), Pagkakataon by Rachelle Ann Go and Shamrock (Hindi nya rin ako pinaalis sa tabi nya at pinakanta ako. xD), Realize by

Colbie Caillat (Guess what? Hindi na talaga ako pinaalis. Hawak-hawak nya yung kamay ko ng mahigpit. xD), Shake Up Christmas by Train (Tama. Nagkanta din ako. XD) and Way Back Into Love by Hugh Grant and Haley Bennett (Duet kami. xD).

The final song was, 'You Can' by David Archuleta. This time, hinayaan nya na ako kung makikisabay ako sa kanya o hindi.

And I didn't.

"Tell me where I've never been, help me on my feet again. Show me that good things come to those who wait. Tell me I'm not on my own. Tell me I won't be alone. Tell me what I'm feelin' isn't some mistake. 'cause if anyone can make me fall in love, you can."

I just watched him watching me while singing.

"Save me from myself, you can. And it's you and no ane else. If I could wish upon tomorrow, tonight would never end. If you asked me, I would follow. But for now, I just pretend. 'cause if anyone can make me fall in love, you can."

Natawa naman ako sa kanya nung nagpa-cute sya.

"Baby, when you look at me. Tell me, what do you see? Are these the eyes of someone you could love? 'cause everything that brought me here, well, now it all seems so clear. Baby, you're the one that I've been dreaming of. 'cause if anyone can make me fall in love, you can. Save me from myself, you can. And it's you and no one else. If I could wish upon tomorrow, tonight would never end. If you asked me, I would follow. But for now, I just pretend. 'cause if anyone can make me fall inlove..."

God, I love his voice. He sounds like a singer. Haha.

Sam continued sing while smiling at me. "Only you can take me sailing in your deepest eyes. Bring me to my knees and make me cry. And no one's ever done this, everything was just a lie. And I know, yes I know..."

I stuck my tongue out. Nagpapacute nanaman sya eh. Haha. This guy is inlove. I wonder with whom?

"This is where it all begins, so tell me it'll never end. I can't fool myself, it's you and no one else. If I could wish upon tomorrow, tonight would never end. If you asked me I would follow. But for now I just pretend. 'cause if anyone can make me fall inlove, you can. Show me that good things come to those who wait."

Tinapos nya na yung kanta tapos bumaba na sya ng stage. I pinched his nose. "Inlove ang dakila kong bestfriend. Haha."

He blushed. Lol. What a lucky girl. Haha. Sana gusto din sya. Oh, well. No doubt about that. Sam is one of a kind.

**

"What?!" napalakas kong sabi. Well, I can't help it! I just found out that Sam would spend his Christmas eve alone! Nagkaproblema daw sa company ng parents nya kaya hindi nakauwi.

"Don't shout at me, Hersheys. Di ko naman kasalanan eh." natatawang sabi ni Sam.

Napabuga nalang ako ng hangin. "It's not funny."

"Ok, ok."

I pouted. Then, a thought entered in my head. "Why don't you spend Christmas with us?"

Napahinto sya sa paglalakad. Tapos pinakatitigan ako. Sobrang titig nya sa akin kaya naman akala ko, matutunaw na ako. "Are you kidding?"

"Not really. Pero kung ayaw mo... Well." I hesitated. Baka kasi i-turn down nya yung offer.

"I'd love to!" he said then hugged me.

Nung una, di pa nagsisink in sa akin pero nung nagsink in na, nakisabay na ako sa pagtawa nya.

"Thanks, cupcake!" paulit-ulit nyang sabi. At that moment, I knew that I made the right decision.

Napahinto bigla si Sam sa pagtawa nung may lumapit sa amin na mga babae. Familiar pa yung iba.

"Hi, Sam. Did you miss us?" tanong nung isa.

"Who is she? Another soon-to-be ex fling?" tanong naman nung isa pa.

Dun ko lang narealize kung sino sila. Mga ex fling ni Sammy best ko. Owemgee. Ang dami lang naman ho nila. Kasi nakapalibot lang naman sila sa akin.

"No. She's my bes--"

Naputol yung sasabihin sana ni Sam nung biglang may humila sa akin. Then and there, bigla nyang hinalikan si Sammy. What the fudge. =______= Upakan ko tong octopusit na to eh.

Hinila ko yung humahalik kay Sam. "What the fudge. Can't you see I'm with Sam?"

"Who cares?"

"Dude, I care." I pushed her away. Anong feeling nya nyan? Mahahalikan nya ng ganun ganon lang ang bestfriend kong tulala? Asa sya!

"If I were you b**c*, don't care too much. Iiwan ka din nyan." sabi nung isa pang octopusit. Nagagree naman yung iba.

I laughed sarcastically. "Excuse me. Wag nyo nga akong igaya sa inyo. Mga octopusit."

And, owmaygas. Mukhang napikon sila sa akin! May nagtulak kasi sa akin sa likod. Si Sam naman, dun palang natauhan. Eh bigla syang hinila at inihiwalay sa akin nung ibang octopusit! Tapos yung iba naman, pinalibutan ako at pinagtutulak. Ayan kasi eh! Ba't ko ba kasi pinatulan tong mga to?! Tanga mo, Gi!

Susugurin na siguro ata nila ako nung biglang may kumuha sa kamay ko at patakbo kaming lumayo.

Pero isa lang yung nasa isip ko. Si Sam!

Owemgee, baka ma-rape ang bestfriend ko! O kaya kidnapin! O kaya ibenta! Owmaygas!

"Dalian mo nga tumakbo! Ang bagal mo!"

I turned to the person who was pulling me and found Nathan. Alangya. Ano ginagawa nya rito!?

Nung nakalabas na kami ng mall, dun palang kami huminto.

I heard him laugh. "Ha. Masyado kasing mabait. Ayan. Karma."

Nung una, hindi ko maintindihan yung ibig nyang sabihin kaya naman nananahimik lang ako. Worried ako kay Sam eh. Kaya lang nung nakasakay na kami sa kotse nya, dun ko lang narealize. Na-set up si Sam!

"Hoy! Walangya naman. Ba't mo ginawa yun kay Sam!?" bulyaw ko kay Nathan. Nakakainis! Ang sama sama ng ugali! Ba't pati bestfriend ko, dinadamay nya?

"Ano nanaman ginawa ko?" inosente nyang tanong. He sounds too innocent that I'm sure he's guilty.

The thought made me mad. "Nananahimik na yung tao! Sa tagal ko syang kasama, hindi na sya nagkaroon ng fling! Tapos, ngayong kung kelan magkasama kami, dun magkakasama-sama yung mga ex fling nya?! Don't you think it's a bit too suspicious?!"

"I don't know what you're talking about." he smiled.

I snorted. "Wag ka ngang painosente. Uupakan kita! I hate you! You're so f'n selfish!"

He shrugged.

I took a deep breath and calmed myself. Nanahimik nalang ako. Baka kasi mapatay ko tong pesteng to. Christmas Eve na Christmas eve. Ayokong magkasala.

But, argh! It's so annoying! Nag-eenjoy na ako eh! Masaya na akong kasama si Sam eh! Tapos minsan lang sisirain ulit yun ni handsome idiot! Nakakainis! I'm so... kasdfhjkshfkhaskfhkshfkhsala! Fudge! Sure, he saved me from those octopusit like a knight-inshining-armor. Pero, sya kaya may kasalanan ba't pinalibutan kami nung mga octopusit na yun! He doesn't have a right to be called 'knight-in-shining-armor'! He should be called 'knight-inrusty-armor'! I hate him!!

Chapter 30: She drives them crazy.

*Gianna's POV*

Inilapag ko yung mga T-shirts na ginawan ko ng design. Sinong mag-eexpect na nakakapagod pala gumawa ng shirt design? Gumawa pa ako ng design sa computer tapos p-in-rint ko pa sa transfer paper tapos nilipat ko pa sa shirt. Eh ang dami ng ginawa ko. Sumakit pa ata mata ko dahil sobrang tutok sa computer. Sana naman magustuhan nila yung ginawa ko. May

kaugnayan kasi sa kanila eh. Tulad ng kay Nathan, (oo, ginawan ko sya ng regalo kahit badtrip ako sa kanya. Mabait ako eh.) "Breathe if you want a kiss." yung design nung shirt nya. Tapos, yung kay Sam (fave ko to. xD), "3 words, 8 letters. Say it, I'm yours. --'I got food.'" naman. Hehe. Tapos, yung kay Ashley, "I'm beautiful in my own way." na tingin ko naman eh bagay sa kanya. Yung kay Des naman, "No one can predict Destiny." which really fits her. Why? She's so unpredictable. Haha. Sa mag-love birds naman, couple shirt ginawa ko. Yung kay Denice, "He's the man." yung nakalagay tapos yung kay Aaron, "But, she's the boss." naman. Wag na kumontra. Bagay yun sa kanila! Hahahaha.

So, ang kailangan na lang gawin ay maghintay na matuyo talaga yung mga shirts para mailagay ko na sa mga paper bag. Maaga pa naman so I decided to soak myself in my bathtub. Matagaltagal pa ang midnight. 6 PM palang kaya naman pwede pa ako magrelax. Wala naman akong gagawin kundi kumain mamaya at hintayin si Christmas! Haha. Ay. Pati nga pala si Sammy, hihintayin ko. Pero sabi naman nya kaninang tumawag at nagsorry sya (kasi daw nasira date namin dahil sa mga ex nya. Sweet. Nagsorry pa talaga sya. :>) mga 7PM nalang daw sya dadating. Makikipagchat muna daw sya sa parents nya.

Matagal-tagal din akong nagbabad sa bathtub. Eh kasi naman, ang lamig pag gabi. Warm water pa naman gamit ko so nag-enjoy ako. Hehe.

Pagkatapos ko magbabad at maligo, nagbihis na ako agad. Tapos nilagay ko na rin yung mga shirts sa kanya-kanyang mga paperbag. 7PM darating si Sam eh. So mabibigay ko sa kanya yung gift ng saktong midnight. Eh sina Destiny, Ashley, Denice and Aaron, mamayang past

midnight pa yung dating. Kaya di ko agad maibibigay sa kanya. Ay. Yung gift ko nga pala kay lolo. I bought him a colorful necktie. I dunno why but I just think it fits his colorful peronality. Hehe.

Lumabas na ako agad nung tapos ko na ayusin yung mga gifts ko. And, guess what? Paglabas na paglabas ko palang, naamoy ko na agad yung amoy ng mga niluluto ni Manang Lorna. Hindi ko alam kung ano niluluto nya pero ang bango ng amoy! Ginugutom na ako agad! Hahaha. Tapos maririnig mo rin yung mga Christmas carol na pinapatugtog sa DVD namin. Christmas na christmas talaga! Ang lamig pa naman. Hahaha. Dumiretso ako sa veranda kung saan nakita ko si lolo na pinapanuod yung iba't ibang kulay ng mga christmas lights na pinapalibutan yung mga halaman at puno ng garden namin. Kahit nakita ko na to dati pa, feeling ko mas maganda sila ngayon. Kasi nakikisabay yung christmas carols, yung amoy ng mga nilulutong pagkain at lamig ng hangin. It's great. :)

"Hi, 'lo." I called.

Humarap naman sa akin si lolo at ngumiti. "Hello, my dear."

Lumapit at tumabi ako sa kanya. I showed him my left hand. "I'm wearing my ring."

"Glad you did, dear."

Nabalot kami ng katahimikan. Pero binasag ko rin agad yun.

"'lo. May tanong ako." I said.

"Ask away my dear."

"Ba't pinakasal mo kami ni Nathan? We're not even inlove with each other."

Lolo chuckled then looked at me. "You're perfect for each other. Ikaw lang yung may kayang intindihin yung ugali ni Nathan. Ikaw lang yung kayang magtiyaga sa kanya. And, for being not inlove. Well.. We'll see about that."

I frowned at his knowing stare at me. But... Whatever. "Hmm. Isn't that a bit selfish, 'lo? Pano naman ako?"

"Don't ask, my dear. Everything will turn out alright." he smiled.

I decided not to ask anymore. Feeling ko naman kasi, di na sasagot ng matino si lolo eh.

Pero, napangiti ako nung nakita ko na si Sam na naglalakad papunta sa amin. Kumakawaykaway pa sya! Hahaha.

"Sam's here." lolo said. "Naaalala ko yang batang yan. Di ba sya yung lagi mong kinukwento sa akin na kasama mo nung elementary kayo? He's so chubby before. But now, he's stunningly handsome."

I beamed proudly. Pinupuri ni lolo yung Sammy best ko eh! Hahaha.

Sasalubungin ko na sana si Sam nung may biglang nanghila sa akin papasok na bahay. Napabuntong hininga nalang ako kasi tama nanaman ako. Si Nathan yung nanghila sa akin.

We stopped at the middle of the living room. It's wide, you know.

"Ba't andito nanaman yun?!" iritado nyang tanong.

I rolled my eyes. "I invited him because he's my freaking bestfriend. Got a problem with that?"

"Aren't you supposed to be mad at him? Ang dami nyang naging ex! Hinarang pa kayo kanina tapos pinagtutulak ka pa!" sita nya sa akin. Aba't-- Alam nya pa sa akin!?

Nagpameywang ako at marahas na napabuntong hininga. "Oi lalake. Sino ba ang may kasalanan kung bakit kami hinarang? Di ba, ikaw?!"

"What! It isn't my fault if he got so many ex! Kung konti yung ex nya, konti lang haharang sayo. Eh ang dami ng ex nya eh!"

"Eh hindi naman kami haharangin kung di dahil sayo!"

"That's unfair!" he complained. Napataas ako ng kilay sa sinabi nya. "Ba't ako, wala na akong ginagawa. Sila na mismo lumalapit sa akin tapos di ko sila pinapansin pero galit na galit ka parin sa akin. Eh ba't kay Sam, hindi ka galit? Unfair! Freaking unfair!"

Napatigil ako sa sinabi nya. Unfair ba yun? Weh? Talaga? Di nga? But, huweeeyyt. Unfair din naman sya sa akin! "Don't talk about being fair to me! Is it fair to kiss all those sluts then you'll effing kiss me?! Is it fair to be sweet then after few moments, be an idiot?! Is it fair that I married you because no one can stand your stupid personality?! That's what you call unfair!"

I closed my eyes then hid my face behind my hands. I think I let my emotions burst. Naiiyak ako eh. Naiiyak. Kung pwede lang sana akong umatras, hindi na talaga ako magpapakasal sa kanya. Kaya lang, hindi na pwede. At ayoko rin na madissapoint si lolo. Wala na akong ibang pamilya. Si lolo lang yung kumupkop sa akin kahit di nya ako tunay na apo. Ayokong saktan sya.

"Gi.." I heard him call but I ignored him.

"Gi, uy," he called again.

I sobbed. It's unfair. It's so freaking unfair. I can't even control my own effing life.

Pero, nagulat nalang ako nung maramdaman kong may yumakap sa akin.

"I'm sorry." Nathan said while hugging me.

"Stop it. I hate you. I hate you." I told him while crying on his shoulder.

Ayoko na ng ganito. Ang bait nya tapos bigla-bigla, magiging masama nanaman ang ugali. Ano bang problema nito?!

"Tahan na, Gi." he told me.

"I hate you. I hate you, I hate you, I hate you." I keep muttering while sobbing on his shoulder.

Nakakainis. Ba't ganun? I can feel my irritation fade away.

But, I continued crying on his shoulder until I can calm myself again.

**

*Sam's POV*

I smiled bitterly as I watch Nathan hug Gianna and calm her down. Dapat ako yung gumagawa kay Gianna ng ganun eh. Dapat ako yung nagpapatahan sa kanya.

Napaatras ako ulit pabalik ng veranda kung saan nakita ko si sir... well... lolo Martin na pinapanuod ako.

"I told you he's inlove." he said.

I smiled. "I am inlove."

"Be strong, then."

"I will." I nodded. Then, took a deep breath and plastered a smile on my face. "Hersheys! I'm here!"

I entered the house again and, thankfully, I found Gianna standing away from Nathan.

"Hi, Sam." she smiled at me.

I ignored Nathan and came closer to Gianna and clasped her face between my hands. "How come your pretty face's wet? Have you been crying?"

She just smiled and shoook her head. Napailing nalang ako. Tapos, kinuha ko yung panyo ko at pinunas yung gilid ng mata nya. This, at least I can do. Wipe her tears away.

Napahinto ako nung hawakan ni Nathan yung balikat ko.

"Pare, wag ka masyadong malapit." he warned. "Baka ano isipin ng mga maids."

"Nathan.." reklamo naman ni Gianna. "We had a deal."

I raised my eyebrows innocently. "What? I'm her bestfriend. Ano naman iisipin ng mga maids? Ba't ba concerned ka kung anong iisipin nila tungkol sa amin ni Gianna? Di ba, kababata ka lang nya na halos magkapatid o magpinsan lang ang turingan? Hindi ka naman nya asawa para maging concerned o magselos sa amin, di ba?"

Nagtagis sya ng bagang at lalong humigpit ang pagkakahawak sa balikat ko.

"Nathan. Let go of Sam." said Gianna exasperatedly.

We glared at each other before he let go of my shoulder. Then, he just simply walked away. I turned to Gianna and smiled. "Is that a cookie that I smell? God, I'm hungry."

Natawa naman sya sa sinabi ko. Thank God hindi na sya nagreact dun sa sinabi ko kay Nathan kanina. Sometimes, she's so dumb that she's so adorable.

"Tara sa kitchen." she said then pulled me along.

**

"Nathan." I called to Nathan who was sitting at the swing in their balcony. I followed him all the way up here without telling Gianna. Well, it's like, a man to man talk.

"Stay away from her." he said without looking at me.

"I know that you're married with her," sumandal ako sa may pinto. "But, I think she doesn't have feelings for you."

He was quiet so I continued on talking. "You're so despicable. You took away her freedom to be with somebody else. You married her but all you do to her is make her cry. You have a chance to be with her and make her happy but you're wasting it. I'll give up anything to be in your position."

"You love her." he said then stood up and faced me.

"I don't only love her. I'm crazy about her."

"But, I don't care. She's the only person that I have. She can't leave me."

I stared at him accusingly. "But you don't show her any importance. She'll leave you eventually when she's sick and tired of your selfishness."

"She can't. There's nowhere else in this world she can go. She only have me and that old man."

"She have me."

"What?"

I looked directly into Nathan's eyes. "At the moment's notice, I'll take her away from you."

"What? F*** that s***. She does drives me crazy with she's mad at me but she'll never do that." Nathan growled.

"I'll make her do it."

"Shut up! I'll never let her go with you. I'd rather die."

I glared at him challengingly. "Well then, good luck on your next life."

I turned away from him but stopped for a moment. "And, oh right. The next time I found out you made her sad and cry, I won't hold back myself to steal her from you."

And with that, I left him there.

Chapter 31: Cheat if you can.

*Gianna's POV*

I was currently watching a christmas movie when my head felt like it was spinning around. I shifted my gaze away from the TV and found myself watching the living room circle around me.

Fudge. Nahihilo ako. =____=

I lied down on the sofa then rested my head on the arm rest and closed my eyes. Grabe. Ang ganda ng upo ko tapos mahihilo lang akong bigla. Alangya. x_x

"O Toblerone!" I opened my eyes and saw Sam climbing down the stairs. San galing to? "Napano ka?"

"Ah. Wala to." sabi ko nalang tapos tumayo. Kukuha nalang akong gamot sa hilo sa kwarto ko.

"Sure ka?"

I nodded then climbed up the stairs. I staggered a little but I acted normal. Nararamdaman ko kasi yung tingin ni Sam sa likod ko eh. Pero, fudge. Hilong-hilo na ako. Kaninang tumayo ako sa pagkakahiga ko, medyo nawala na hilo ko pero nung paakyat na ako ng hagdan, bumalik. Badtrip lang.

Owmaygawd. Umiikot talaga nakikita ko. Pati dinadaanan ko, gumagalaw. Ang masaklap pa, gusto kong magsuka! I can feel the meal that I ate earlier long to get out of my system.

Nung malapit na ako sa kwarto ko at di ko na kinaya yung pag-ikot ng paligid ko, naupo muna ako sa sahig. Sumandal ako sa pader at pinikit yung mata ko. I tried to divert the sick feeling but I can feel the freezing breeze of the air. At kahit malamig yung hangin, tumutulo parin yung pawis ko. Pakiramdam ko, tumakbo ako paikot.

"What's wrong?" I heard the familiar voice of Nathan.

"'la. Leave me alone." I muttered.

"There's definitely wrong with you. What happened?"

"Wala nga sabi."

"Tell me. Come one." pagpupumilit parin nya.

Napabuntong hininga nalang ako. "Nahihilo ako, ok? Pwede iwan mo na ako?"

I thought I heard him sigh and then, silence. Good. Iniwan nya na ako. Wala talagang balak na tu--

"You shouldn't be lying there. Malamig yung pader."

Napamulagat at nagulat nalang ako nung bigla nya akong buhatin. But the little movement I did when I opened my eyes made my sight spin in circles again.

"What are you doing?" I tried to protest but the spinning of everything went crazy. Lalo lang akong nahilo.

Yes, yes. He scooped me up and he carried me like how a groom carry her bride.

He didn't answer. Instead, we entered my roon then he tucked me in on my bed.

"May kailangan ka?" tanong nya sa akin habang inaayos yung kumot ko.

I stared at him dumbfoundedly. Si Nathan ho ba talaga to?

He smiled. "Try to sleep. I'll be here if you need anything."

And with that, he kissed me on my forehead.

**

*Nathan's POV*

I was watching Gianna's sleeping face when she suddenly stirred. Tapos, bigla-bigla nalang syang bumangon at tumayo. Pero di pa sya tuluyang nakakabangon, nagsuka na sya sa sahig. Oo. Nagsuka sya.

And all I could think was WTF.

But I regained my senses when I heard her cough. Dali-dali akong tumayo at inalalayan si Gianna. "Ok ka na? O nasusuka ka pa? Gusto mo pumuntang CR?"

She nodded so I assisted her towards the bathroom in her room. I was surprised when I first touched her skin. It was cold. Pinagpapawisan sya ng malamig. Meaning, she's feeling really sick, right?

She grabbed the bathroom sink for support then she pushed me gently and gave me a thumbs up. Judging by her personality, I think she's saying 'I'll be fine, leave me alone for a moment.'

Uncertain, I nodded then left the bathroom. Seeing her room, I realized that the floor was a mess. So, I decided to call manang Lorna or ate Beth or whichever maid was available to clean it.

Pababa na ako ng hagdan nung makita ko si Sam na naka-upo sa sa may last step. I remembered our conversation earlier. Huh. So, he's threatening me that she'll take Gianna away? Well then, I'll just give her no choice but to stay. She's mine and only mine until that

frigging contract is valid. And after that... Well, I don't want to think about it at the moment. But I'll make it sure she won't end up with that Sam.

I ignored Sam and was determined to go directly to the kitchen. Pero, may pagka-warfreak ata tong asungot na to at hinila pa ako gamit ang manggas ko. Tss.

"What is your f'ing problem?!" reklamo ko. Nananahimik na kasi ako eh! Wala na akong pakielam sa kanya! Kay Gianna nalang yung pakielam ko.

We glared at each other.

"That's cheating." he said.

"Cheating?"

"Being nice to her all of the sudden and taking care of her. That is just so not you." he gritted his teeth.

I smirked. "Don't be so judgemental, dude. Maybe I'm not always nice to her but I'm always taking care of her. I just like teasing her that's why I ain't look that nice."

"That's still cheating, dude."

I shrugged. "Life ain't fair, dude."

Sasagot pa sana sya kaya lang biglang lumapit sa amin si manang Lorna.

"May problema ba ha mga anak?" tanong ni manang Lorna.

Lumayo sa akin si Sam at ngumiti kay manang Lorna. "Wala naman ho."

Agad ko namang hinarap si manang Lorna. "Sakto, manang. Naghahanap ako ng pwedeng maglinis ng kwarto ni Gianna. Nagsuka ho eh."

Mukha naman nagulat si manang Lorna. "N-nagsuka kamo?"

I nodded.

"Ano sabi mo?" sabi naman ni Sam.

I ignored him and continued giving details to manang Lorna. "Nahihilo din ho kanina."

"Dili kaya buntis yong batang yaon?" tanong naman ni manang Lorna tapos umakyat na papuntang kwarto ni Gianna.

Teka...

Ano daw?

Buntis?

Sino?! Si Gianna?!

"Buntis ho?!" sigaw ni Sam tapos tumakbo papunta sa kwarto no Gianna.

Nakatitig lang ako sa likod ni manang Lorna habang naglalakad kami. Pagpasok namin sa kwarto ni Gianna, nadatnan namin syang nakasandal sa pintuan ng banyo habang sinasalat ni Sam yung noo nya.

Her? Pregnant? Are you freaking kidding me? Pwede ba yun!?

Lumapit kami ni manang Lorna sa kanila.

"Gianna anak, anong pakiramdam mo?" tanong ni manang Lorna.

"Medyo ayos na ho. Pero nasusuka at nahihilo ako kanina." sagot naman ni Gianna.

Tumango-tango si manang Lorna. "O sya sige. Sandali lang at lilinisin ko tong kwarto at baka mangamoy suka ire."

Lumapit ako sa kanya. "Excuse me, Sam. Mag-uusap lang kami sandali."

He glared at me before backing off. I just rolled my eyes. Like I said, life ain't fair. And it's not my fault if I "cheated".

"Gi," bulong ko sa kanya. "Pwede ka bang mabuntis kahit alang nangyari sa atin?"

"Sira ulo. Di pwede yun." sagot naman nya.

Natawa naman ako bigla. Magaling na to eh! Inaaway na ako. xD

"Eh akala ni manang Lorna, buntis ka."

"Huh!?!"

"No kidding."

"Para namang pwede yun!"

"Yun na nga eh. Hahaha." I chuckled. "Kaya mo na ba tumayo?"

She nodded at me. "Oo. Ok na ako. Gutom na nga ako eh."

Inalalayan ko sya papunta sa kama nya. Habang ginagawa ko yun, pinapanuod lang kami ni Sam. Wala mang expression yung mukha nya. Inisin ko nga. Nyahahaha.

"Huy, Gi." pabulong kong tawag kay Gianna.

"Ow?"

"Act like you're pregnant."

"Baliw! Bakit ko naman gagawin yun? Sira ka ba?!"

"Dali na. Dadalhin ko kayong lahat sa beach pag ginawa mo yun."

She rolled her eyes. "Asa ka pa. Di ko gagawin yun. At tsaka hoy. Di ba usapan, walang makakaalam na kasal na tayo. Baka makahalata si Sam."

I snorted at Sam's name. Tss. "Alam naman nya eh."

"HA?!"

I nodded then she looked over at Sam.

"Bes?" she called.

Sam smiled widely. Psh. Special treatment. "Yes, Cadburry?"

Gianna smiled awkwardly. "Alam mo na?"

"Na ano?"

"Na ano. Yung ano. Si ano. Yung ano ako. K-kasal." she stammered. Psh. Ba't ba nagkakaganyan yan kay Sam. Ang bait pa.

Sam didn't answer.

I smiled at Gianna. "He knows."

Gianna stared at Sam. Sam stared back. And I am being ignored. WTF.

I hissed. "Stop staring at each other. Di pa ba kayo nagkakasawaan. Psh."

Hinawakan naman ni Gianna yung kamay ko kaya napatingin ako sa kanya. "Bakit?"

"Mag-uusap lang kami sandali."

"O tapos?"

"Labas ka na muna."

"Ays."

"Nathan." she complained.

Sumimangot naman ako. Ba't ba kailangan akong lumabas? Mag-uusap lang naman sila. "Asawa mo naman ako. I have every rights to stay here with you."

She snorted. Uh-oh. Wrong move yung pagsabi ko tungkol sa rights at asawa. "Pag-aawayan ba nanaman natin yung tungkol dyan?"

"Hindi. Sabi ko nga lalabas na ako. Usap na kayo." I said defeatedly then headed for the door. Pero bago ako lumabas, I saw Sam's annoying smirked.

Badtrip, tol. Badtrip lang.

**

Nakasalampak ako sa sahig at nanunuod ng Barbie in Christmas Carol nung biglang pumasok si tanda galing sa veranda. Andito pa pala to. Nalimutan ko na existence nito. Akala ko saang lupalop na napunta to.

Anyway, expressway, highway, subway. Hindi ko nalang sya pinansin at nagpatuloy lang sa panunuod ng Barbie.

HOY DI AKO BAKLA HA. Kaya lang naman ako nanunuod ng Barbie eh wala akong ibang mapanuod. At tsaka maganda naman kasi to eh. Yay, basta. Walang basagan ng trip tol. Gusto ko tong panuorin eh.

"Nathan, asan na asawa mo?" tanong ni tanda.

Hmm. Sarap pakinggan ng "asawa mo" ah. Hehehe. "Ewan."

"O ayan na pala eh." sabi naman ni tanda. Nagtanong pa sya sa akin?! Tss.

"Gianna, anak. Halika sandali." tawag ni tanda. "Ikaw din Nathan. Mag-uusap tayo."

Napabuntong-hininga nalang ako. Tapos, humarap nalang ako sa kanila at hindi na tumayo sa sahig. Ayoko ngangh makatabi yung epal na Sam na yun. Si Gianna lang tinawag tapos pati sya, nakisama. Pshh.

"Nagsuka ka daw kanina?" simula ni tanda. Tumango naman si Gianna.

"Nahihilo?" tanong ulit ni tanda. Si Gianna lang naman yung kailangan sa usapan na to eh. Ba't pati ako, tinawag?!

"Oo, 'lo. Pero kanina pa yun." sagot naman ng panget kong asawa.

Sumulyap muna sa akin si tanda bago nagsalita ulit. "Aren't you pregnant?"

Napatingin ako kay tanda. PANO NGA MABUBUNTIS YAN EH WALA NAMANG NANGYARI SA AMIN?!?!?

Napanganga naman si Gianna. "UY HINDI AH 'LO! ASA KA PA! WALA NAMANG NANGYARI SAMIN NI NATHAN EH!"

At the sight of Sam's grimaced, my immature side butted in. "O ba't guilty ka? Magdedeny ka nalang, sisigaw ka pa."

I swallowed my laugh. Lalo kasing sumama yung itsura ni Sam. MWAHAHAHAHA! NYAHAHAHA!!

"EH SA WALA NAMAN TALAGA EH!" sigaw pa ulit ni Gianna.

I smirked. "Eh di wala. Sabi mo eh."

"Sira ulo to. Wala nga sabi eh!"

Iinisin ko pa sana silang dalawa nung biglang sumingit si tanda. "Gianna, Nathan. Tama na." I shrugged while preventing my self to laugh. Kung pwede lang kunan ng litrato si Sam! WAHAHAHA!

Hinarap ni tanda si Gianna. "Di rin tayo nakakasigurado, Gianna. Remember when Nathan was sick?"

Then, I remembered. Nung nilalagnat ako dati. Tapos pagkagising namin ni Gianna, may dugo yung kama ko! Shet, di nga?! Something really happened between us?! Ba't wala ako maalala?!

"You mean when we woke up, there was bl--"

"SHUT UP, NATHAN! DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT MENTIONING IT!" she yelled at me. Ok, ok. Sya ng galit at sumisigaw!

Namutla naman si Sam tapos tinitigan ako ng masama. I smiled at him teasingly. Mamatay ka sa inis. MWAHAHAHA! >:D

Old man sighed. "Gianna, don't you thi--"

"I said no, 'lo." she snapped. "I'm not pregnant and this conversation is over." then she stood up and left, followed by Sam. Tss. Parang buntot nya lang yung Sam na yun eh. Sunod ng sunod kay Gi kahit saan.

Napailing naman si tanda. Tapos tumayo sya at lumapit sa akin.

"Nathan, after ng incident na nadatnan ko kayo sa condo mo, wala bang nangyari sa inyo?" he asked then sat beside me.

I shrugged. "Wala."

"Then, she's really not pregnant." he sighed. "Hay. Akala ko pa naman magkaka-apo na ako sa tuhod! Haha."

I frowned. "How can you be so sure. Di ba may nangyari na sa amin?"

Well, according to this old man, something happened between Gianna and I. Kung totoo yun, eh di si Gianna yung first ko?! Oh, sht. Ni-rape ako ni Gianna! Dejoke. Baka saksakin ako nun. Pero di nga. If ever ha. First ko sya nun! Swear!

He chuckled. "Nothing happened between you two that night."

"Huh!?"

"It was me, actually." he chuckled again. "I was too excited to have great grandchildren so I set you two up. Nung nadatnan ko kayong magkatabi, tinanggal ko yung damit nyo, leaving only your underwears."

I grimaced, letting what he said sink in. "What about the blood, then?"

"Oh. That was just ketchup."

"What. The. Fudge?"

Tumayo si tanda tapos humarap sa akin. "But it turned out alright, didn't it?" he laughed. "But don't tell Gianna. Baka magwala. This is a secret between us two men, ok?"

I nodded dumbstruck. A secret. Between the two of us.

Pano naman naisip ni tanda yun? "Wait." I called at his retreating back. "Ba't mo naman naisip yun?"

"Oh. I have an accomplice who told me to do that when I called him about you twe sleeping in one bed together." he winked then went to the dining room.

Huh? Sino naman kaya yung kasabwat nyang yun?

And I just realized, this was the first time that I talked to him without shouting. Weird.

**

"Bakla! Merry christmas!" Ashley greeted then rushed to Gianna and hugged her. Tapos, sumunod sa kanya sina Denice and Aaron.

Oh, right. It's past midnight. Kaya naman andito na yung mga kaibigan ni Gianna. Si Destiny nga, kaninang konti pa dumating. Susurprise daw nya si Ashley. Kaya, ayun. Nagtatago sa loob.

"ASHLEEEEEEEEEY!!" tili ni Destiny paglabas ng bahay. Speak of the devil and the devil shall appear eh no?

"Emeged! What are you doing here?!?!" sigaw naman ni Ashley kaya nagtawanan silang lahat. Si tanda, Gianna, Sam, Denice at Aaron. Ako naman, nakatitig lang sa kanila.

"Hinihintay kita!" sagot Destiny tapos sinugod si Ashley.

Nagtago naman si Ashley kay Gianna. Pero pelit na umaalis si Gianna kaya naman nahahabol si Ashley ni Destiny. Then, finally, biglang tumakbo papunta sa akin si Ashley!

"Fafa Nathan! Save me!" sigaw nya sa akin.

Napaatras naman ako. Sht! Hinahabol nya ako!! Oh, sht!! Hindi!!

"Ashley! Hahaha! Tigilan mo nga yan!" tawa naman ni Gianna. "Ikukulong kita kasama si Des, sige ka!"

"Wag bakla!" sabi naman ni Ashley.

Nagsitawanan silang lahat. Ako naman, lumipat sa tabi ni Gianna. Baka sakaling iligtas ako nito.

"Des, Ashley, behave nga kayo." saway naman ni Denice. Sumunod naman yung dalawa. Pero si Destiny, nagpapa-cute parin kay Ashley habang mukhang kinikilabutan naman ang huli. Alangya. Hahaha. xD

Tapos, nagpalitan na sila ng gifts. Pinamigay ni Gianna yung mga paperbags na binaba nya kanina. Psh. Ako lang ata wala. I didn't bother to buy gifts. Wala naman akong pagbibigyan.

Pero nagulat ako nung biglang may inabot sa akin si Aaron na paperbag. "Heto, Nathan. Pag sinumpong si Gianna, ipaparinig mo sa kanya yan. Titino yun."

I gaped at him. Seriously? They're giving me this? "Uhh. Thanks?"

He smiled then exchanged gift with Gianna. Ano kaya to?

I opened it and saw a bunch of albums by David Archuleta, Taylor Swift, Colbie Caillat and Lifehouse. Tapos may bondpapers pa na naka bookbind. Nung tinignan ko yun, puro lyrics and chords yung nakaprint sa mga bondpapers. Tapos may note pa sa huli na pag-aralan ko daw yung mga kanta. Eh paano ko naman to papatugtugin? Ay. Ewan.

"Nathan," I glanced up and saw old man smiling at me. "Here."

May inabot sya sa akin na malaki ang hinala na isang gitara. Halata naman ho sa lalagyan. "Thanks?"

He smiled. "You might need it someday."

I shrugged. Ba't parang iba yung pasko ngayon? Kita mo, binibigyan ako ng regalo ng di ko naman mga kaibigan. Pati yung bigay ni tanda, iba! Usually, pera o kotse eh. Pero ngayon, gitara. Ano yun? Nagtipid? Baka naghihirap na kami! Dejoke lang. Impossible.

Pero mas nagulat ako nung lumapit sa akin si Gianna at Sam. Unang nagsalita si Sam. "Merry christmas." sabi nya. Tapos nakipagshake hands at umalis na. Problema nun?

I just shrugged then faced Gianna. She have this poker face so I really don't know what she's thinking.

Nanglaki yung mata ko nung may inabot sya sa akin na paperbag.

"Merry christmas, Nathan." she broked into a smile.

"M-merry christmas." I said.

Then, she patted my head then pinched my cheeks. I smiled. This is the best christmas ever since our parents died.

Chapter 32: The Moves, Dre.

Few days had already passed when that 'pregnant' issue broke out but they're still pestering me about it.

And for heaven's sake, I'm not pregnant!

New Years Eve na new year's eve, binubwisit ako nila lolo Martin. =_____=

Pero infairness, hindi ako inaaway ni handsome idiot. Lagi nga lang syang tahimik. Di tulad nung dati. Bigla-bigla nalang mambubwisit. Di ko alam kung alin yung mas gusto ko. Pero mabait na sya sa akin. ^_^v

And, oh yes. Mukhang maganda ang salubong ko sa new year. Kasi nga, di ako binubwisit ni Nathan, tapos, si lolo, pinalitan na yung kotse ko! Woohoo! Haha. Eh kasi naman, vintage na ata yung sasakyan kong yun. Dejoke lang. Lol. Kaya lang gustong gusto ko lang talaga na mapalitan na yun. And guess what? BMW yung gift sa akin! Nyahahaha! Mahal no? Sus. Si Nathan nga, puro kotse at motor yung regalo eh. May condo pa! Kung sabagay. Medyo demanding si Nathan eh. Di tulad ko. Minsan lang talaga ako manghingi. Eh kasi naman kahit halos kay lolo na ako lumaki, di naman nya talaga ako kadugo di ba? Hehe. I mean, si Nathan naman talaga yung apo. Ta's nung namatay sina mama, ewan ko na anong nangyari sa negosyo nila. Basta kasosyo nila sina tita Arielle. Ta's yun nga, namatay sila. Si lolo Martin na ulit yung nag-handle ng company. Tinatanong nga dati ni lolo kung gusto kong pag-aralan yung business namin eh. Kaya lang tumanggi ako. Malay ko ba dun. Eh wala naman akong interest dun. Buti pa kung design-design eh. Pwede pa talaga. May trust naman ako kay lolo Martin tungkol sa bagay na yun. And I know that he loves me. :)

Ang bait kaya ni lolo. Super cool pa. Makulit nga lang minsan. Pero ayos lang yun. Naglalambing lang sya nun. Ewan ko nga ba kay Nathan ba't galit na galit kay lolo. Si lolo daw may kasalanan ba't namatay parents namin. As if naman si lolo yung bumaril sa parents namin no? Duhh.

And speaking of Nathan, nasan na ba yung lalaking yun? Hinanap ko na sa 1st floor ng bahay, wala naman. Pati sa 2nd floor, wala! Nung namang tinanong ko sa mga security kung lumabas ng bahay, hindi naman daw dumaan sa gate. Asaan na ba yun?

I stepped out of the house and headed for the garden. Baka naman nagtatago dito yun? Pero, di naman siguro. Tsk. Saang lupalop ba napunta yung lalaking yun? Itatanong ko pa naman kung bumili sya ng... lusis ba yun? Di ko alam anung tawag dun. Basta mukha syang mahabang palito ng posporo tapos kulay gray yung sa dulo. Tapos pag sinindi mo, nag-i-spark! Ang ganda tignan. Nakita ko lang nilalaro yun nung batang kapitbahay namin eh. Kaya lang di ko natanong kung ano tawag.

Naglakad-lakad ako sa harap ng bahay. Nagtaka naman ako nung parang may narinig akong tumatahol nung nagawi ako sa may entrance ng side ng bahay. I mean, oo, may aso kami pero, iba yung tahol eh! Maliit! Parang tuta! Imposible namang manganak yung aso namin. Lalaki yun eh! May nabubuntis bang lalaking aso?! Wala naman di ba?!

Dahil na rin curious ako, nag-decide akong puntahan yung tumatahol. Nagulat naman ako nung makarating ako sa may likod bahay namin. Why? Because there's a brown puppy running all over the place! But, what shocked me most?

Nathan.

Because he was laughing out loud while throwing treats to the puppy!

At nang magawi yung tingin nya sa akin, he was smiling. Right there and then, I found out why girls go crazy and willing to give anything to him when he smiles. He looks so stunningly handsome. No, wait. Scratch that, he looks like an angel smiling from the above. And I AM NOT EVEN KIDDING! His eyes were light and kind. His aura is so bright that he looks like glowing. Or not. Baka naman ilaw lang yun. And jeez. Those dimples are to die for! I want to touch them!

"Hi." he greeted, still smiling. aksdfhkajfhasdkfafkajkjdfjhdfkahflh! Yung dimples nya! Promise!!

"H-hi." I stammered. Ok. THIS IS THE FIRST TIME THAT I STAMMERED BECAUSE OF HIM. This is crazy.

"Anong ginagawa mo dyan?" he asked then stood up from the floor where he was sitting on then came to and pulled my hand. "Come on."

I was just staring at him. Tapos nagawi yung tingin ko sa tuta na nakatingin lang din sa akin. Tapos bigla-bigla, hinabol ako! Shet!

"Oh, sht! Nathan! Nathan! Hinahabol ako!"

Then, I found myself on Nathan's hands.

He chuckled. "He's only saying hi, you know."

I bit my lip. OA much?

"You're blushing." he said.

What the--?

I hid my face behind my hands. "Shut up."

"You're neck is pink."

Oh, fudge. Is he saying the truth? Probably not. "You're lying. Shut up."

Tumawa parin. I'm sure he's not lying. Eh kasi naman, parang ang init at ang bigit ng pisngi ko. Nakakainis!

"Here," he said. "Use my phone as a mirror para makita mo kung nagsisinungaling ako."

I glanced up to see it for myself.

"Smile!" sabi nalang nya bigla. Then, he pressed a button on his phone.

Fudge! He took a picture of us!

He laughed out loud then took the puppy with his hands.

"Look, Chocolate! Stole a picture with my wife." he said while showing off the picture. "Isn't she gorgeous?"

Wait. He named the puppy "Chocolate"?! Napailing nalang ako at napangiti. What a weird guy. Hahaha.

"She's gorgeous, right? Of course she is." sabi pa ni Nathan.

Uhm. Teka. He's referring me as gorgeous? What the fudge? Ano bang nakain nitong lalaking to?

"What did you say? Who's gorgeous?" I asked. Just to be sure.

He stared and smiled at me innocently. "You are."

Huh? Tama ba narinig ko? He's calling me gorgeous? Not ugly stick? Oh my God, magugunaw na ba ang mundo?!?!?

"Stop gaping there, gorgeous wife." he said then he let go of the puppy. "Tara na sa harap dahil madilim na."

Nakatitig parin ako sa kanya habang naglalakad kami papunta sa harap ng bahay.

"What's wrong with you?" natanong ko nalang.

He frowned. "Huh? Wala naman. Bakit?"

"Masyado kang mabait. Hindi mo na ako inaaway. Hindi mo na ako tinatawag na ugly stick."

"Ayaw mo yun?"

I sighed. "It's not like that."

He just smiled at me. "I like seeing you smile."

"Huh?"

"I like seeing you smile." he repeated. Tapos, umakyat na kami sa bahay. "And baka maunahan ako nung asungot na yun."

"What?" I frowned at him. "Sinong asungot?"

Nathan smiled and pinched my nose, making me more confuse. "Wala. Let's watch some movies."

Still frowning at his answer, I let him pull me to the living room.

**

"Gorgeous wife, gusto mong kumain?"

"Ha? Ah. Di pa. Busog pa ako." sagot ko nalang.

Iniisip ko parin kasi kung bakit nagkakaganito tong lalaking to. Masyado kasing mabait. Naninibago lang talaga.

Tsaka iniisip ko din kasi si lolo. Kanina kasing nadaanan ko sya nung papunta akong kwarto ko, tinititigan nya yung picture namin ni Nathan nung bata kami. Feeling ko, kahit papano, miss nya na si Nathan. I mean, yung matino syang kinakausap ni Nathan. Yung tinatawag syang lolo. Yung nginingitian sya. Ewan ko ba anong nangyari sa kanila. Basta bago kami mag-college, bigla nalang nag-iba yung pakikitungo ni Nathan kay lolo. Tapos di na rin nya tinawag na 'lolo' si lolo Martin. Kahit na di sinasabi at pinapakita ni lolo Martin, alam kong miss nya na si Nathan.

"What's wrong?" pukaw ni Nathan sa akin.

I stared at him. Why don't I try talking to him?

"Nathan," I started.

"What?"

I hesitated. But, my desire to make Nathan talk to lolo properly again overwhelmed me. "What happened between you and lolo?"

He caught his breath. Tapos, iniwas nya yung tingin nya. "You don't need to know."

Napabuntong hininga naman ako. "He misses you, you know."

He was quiet so, I decided to drop the subject. But, I guess he changed his mind and choose to tell me.

"He was the reason why our parents died." he said.

Surprise, surprise. "But, Nathan, hindi naman sya yung bumaril."

He shook his head. "That's not what I meant! If only he gave up the business, our parents would still be alive."

Nagulat naman ako sa sinabi nya. I did know that our parents were massacred but, I never knew that money and business were included.

But, lolo would never do that, right? Yes, he wouldn't do that. Nathan must see that. Lolo would never let our parents die because of money.

"Lolo would never do that," I told him.

Napatingin sya sa akin. "Hindi ka galit sa kanya?"

I shrugged. "Sure, I'm surprise. I'm angry to the people who killed our parents but, there must be something else that caused our parents death."

"How can you be so sure?"

"I dunno." I sighed. "But, can't you see, Nathan? He took our parents place. He took care and loved us. And, I know, all he want for you is to be happy."

"What if he did sacrifice our parents for money?"

"We just have to find out what really happened, right?" I told him. "So, if I were you, go and talk to him."

He stared at me. I was expecting that he will decline and shake his head when he nodded and brushed the tip of my nose. "Don't ever leave me, k?"

I chuckled. "Shut up. Pano ko magagawa yun eh pwera sa mga kaibigan ko, kayo nalang ni lolo yung meron ako."

"Yeah." he closed his eyes. Tapos pinadikit nya yung noo namin. "You're stuck with me."

"Good to know."

"Nasaan na pala yung bestfriend mong makulit?" tanong nya bigla.

Natawa naman ako. Ba't biglang nasingit si Sam sa usapan? xD "Tumawag si Destiny. Dun daw mag-new year si Sam."

"Great." he smiled. Tapos binuksan nya na yung mga mata nya. "I'll talk to him. Right now."

I smiled and nodded. "Go."

"Won't you kiss me? For good luck,"

"Oh shut up." I laughed then stood up and pulled him. "Tara na. Nasa study room si lolo. Ihahatid kita tapos hintayin nalang kita dito."

Tumayo din naman sya. Then, he took my hand and together, we went to the study room.

Bago pa man kami makapasok, he pulled me to stop. I glanced at him questioningly.

"Won't you really give me a good luck kiss?" he asked.

Natawa naman ako. "Ok, ok."

I reached and tried to kiss him on his cheek but at the last moment, he suddenly faced me!

"Lol, thank, gorgeous wife." he smiled at me mischievously then entered the room.

I stood there, touching my lips with my hand. Waaaaaaa! I was only giving him a kiss on the cheek! Ba't naging kiss on the lips!?

Oh, jeez. Baliw yung Nathan na yun.

But, I guess. That made me smile. :> And with that smile plastered on my face, I headed back to the living room.

**

"How was it?" tanong ko agad kay Nathan pag dating nya ng living room.

"We're ok." he shrugged. But I can still see the small smile in his face. Sus. If I know, sobrang saya mo lang. Haha.

But, instead of teasing him, I just smiled. "That's great."

He nodded. Tapos umupo sa tabi ko. Pero, wala pa mang 1 minute, nagsimula na syang magsalita.

"Did you know, he was ready to give up the company and his life but the suspects killed our parents? So, instead na makuha nya yung parents natin, all was left was the business, us and him. Buti nga daw hindi tayo nasali. If not, he would go crazy." kwento nya. "But I still don't know if I should still be thankful or what because we were alive."

I smiled at his mumbling.

"He told me if only he wasn't a second too late, he could have saved our parents. But, still. I miss them."

Niyakap ko nalang sya. "It's ok Nathan. At least alam mo na yung lahat. Be thankful that you're alive." I told him. "I do miss them too but, wouldn't they get angry at us if we waste the life they had to give up due to saving lolo and, I dunno, us?"

He sighed and held my face. "Sorry, Gi. I was stubborn for so many years."

"It's confusing but, let's be thankful to what we have right now, ok?"

He nodded. Tapos, natahimik sya.

I frowned at him. "Napano ka?"

"I was just thinking."

"Thinking what?"

"About... Nah. It's nothing." iling nya.

I rolled my eyes. "Ano nga?"

"Well," he started. "I was thinking... What if you got pregnant?"

I nodded. "Ah. I see."

Teka. What if I got pregnant?!

"YOU WANT ME TO BE PREGNANT!?!?" I yelled at him. Di nga?! Seriously?! Anong connect non sa parents namin?!?

"It was just a 'what if'!" he said guiltily.

Pero-- Teka-- What-- Uhh-- Huh!??

Chapter 33: A Wish.

*Gianna's POV*

"Gorgeous wife," Nathan called from the other side of the door of my room.

I made an involuntary shrug. Hindi pa rin ako sanay na matino si Nathan at ganyan ang tawag nya sa akin.

"O?" I called back.

"Tapos ka na?"

"Oo. Teka lang." I told him.

"Ok." sagot nalang nya.

Hindi naman sya excited na bumili ng mga gamit no? Haha. Mamimili kasi kami ng gamit para sa bahay namin. Eh kasi nga di ba hindi natuloy yung dati? Kaya ngayon kami bibili. Pagtitripan ko sana eh. Sasabihin ko sana kakatapos lang ng New Year at sarado pa mga malls. Kaya lang naalala ko, bukas na pala yung SM after January 1. Baka mabara ako.

Hindi pa rin pala kami nakakalipat sa bahay namin. Eh kasi naman wala pa nga masyadong gamit tapos, iniisip ko, si lolo na lang at yung mga maids nyan yung andito. Di kaya magiging medyo malungkot nun tong bahay? Ay ewan. Baka mag-aampon si lolo. Charing. Bahala na.

Nadatnan ko si Nathan na nakasandal sa pader katapat ng pintuan ng kwarto ko, halatang naghihintay sa akin. Wala ba talagang sakit to? Sobrang bait eh. Ano kaya nangyari dito?

"Tara na?" he smiled and, oh, fudge. Yung dimples nya, my gawd. Ok, mababaw lang sila, pero, shemay! I wanna touch them! Weakness ko ho yun eh.

Tempted to touch his dimples, I nodded.

"Daan muna tayo kay tan-- kay lolo." sabi pa nya.

Napangiti ako ng konti. Simula nung magkausap sila ni lolo, pinag-aaralan na ulit ni Nathan na tawagin syang 'lolo'. Siguro naapektuhan lang yung attitude ni Nathan nung magkamisunderstanding sila ni lolo. I admit he irritates me even when we were kids but when he got mad at lolo due to our parents's death issue, his attitude got really bad especially to lolo. Buti nalang nagkaayos na sila.

Sa living room namin nadatnan si lolo na nanunuod ng movie sa TV.

Hindi na ako magdududa kay Nathan. May pinagmanahan pala sya. Si lolo.

Barbie pinapanuod nya.

Seriously. What's with that Barbie?! Ba't pati si Nathan, ang hilig nanunuod ng Barbie?! Ano bang meron dun?!

"Alis na kami." sabi ni Nathan kay lolo. Di naman sya dry magpaalam eh no?

"Sige, 'lo," sabi ko nalang. "Una na kami."

"Mag-iingat kayo mga anak." bilin naman ni lolo. "Sya nga pala Nathan. Pinapakumusta ka ni Marian."

Marian? Sino nanaman yun? =___=

Nathan tensed. "Nagpaparamdam ata si lola Marian. How is she?"

Ay. Lola pala. xD Baka sya yung kapatid ni lolo. Yung nasa States. Lumulutang pa daw kami ni Nathan sa ere nung umuwi yun ng Pilipinas eh. Kaya lang pinupuntahan yun dati nila Nathan sa States nung buhay pa parents nya. Tapos pagbalik ni Nathan, ang tino nya for weeks. Ano kaya ginagawa nung lola Marian na yun kay Nathan? Hahaha.

Ngumiti naman si lolo Martin. "Hopeless romantic as ever. Kaya nga nakakalungkot kasi agad namatay si Leo. But, anyway, she wants to congratulate you for your wedding."

Nathan nodded. "Say my thanks, 'lo. Una na kami."

Tapos, kinuha nya yung kamay ko at lumabas na kami ng bahay.

**

"So, we already have living room set and dining room. What we need is things like TV, appliances, plates and other things." Nathan told me.

Tumango naman ako. "Eh di una na tayo sa appliance center."

"Sure."

He suddenly took my hand as we walk. Pinagmasdan ko lang sya. Matino na nga kaya talaga sya? I hope so. Haha.

Pag dating namin sa appliance center, namili na ako agad ng TV. Pero nagulat ako nung 3 set ng TV yung kinuha nya.

"Ba't tatlo?" I asked.

He smiled. "Para pati sa kwarto natin."

Tumango nalang ako. Tapos, namili na rin ako ng DVD player (na tatlo din kinuha nya), refrigerator, stove, oven, microwave oven, at kung anu-ano pa. Hinayaan ko nalang si Nathan kung may dinagdag pa sya o ano. Sya naman nagbabayad eh. Iba na talaga pag mayaman. Gastos ng gastos. Hay nako.

Sunod naman kaming pumunta sa department store. Gusto ko bumili ng kurtina eh. And mga plates and kitchen utensils na rin. Una kaming pumunta ni Nathan kung saan banda yung glassware. Pero, napapansin ko lang ha? Kanina pa hawak-hawak ni Nathan yung kamay ko. Hindi nya na binitiwan. But, I think its fine. He has this warm hand that I really like. :>

Anyway, I was currently choosing a pair of plates that we can use when a kid suddenly bumped into its case that made him fall on the floor.

Every thing happened fast, I was about to reach for that little boy when plates started falling before him.

Tapos may narinig akong sumigaw ng pangalan ko then, I found myself between Nathan's embrace.

"Are you both ok?" he asked.

I didn't answer. I was looking at the plates that almost fell to that little boy that we just save.

"Gianna, are you ok?" he asked again.

A little shaken, I nodded.

"Oh, God," he sighed then closed his eyes and hugged me tight. "You scared me! Akala ko tatamaan ka na nung mga plato!"

I hugged him back tightly, silently assuring him that I'm ok. Then, I pulled myself from him then knelt and faced the little boy that was standing beside me.

I clasped his little face. He looks way more shaken than me. Who can blame him? Muntik ng mahulog sa kanya yung mga platong malaki pa sa ulo nya.

"Bata, ok ka lang?" I asked.

Parang natauhan naman yung bata nung tinanong ko. Bigla-bigla nalang kasi syang umiyak. Sinubukan ko syang patahanin.

"Shh. Tahan na." I told him. "Everything's alright. Tahan na. Don't cry, baby."

Pinapatahan ko parin yung bata nung may biglang lumapit sa aming ale.

"James!" yakap agad nung ale sa bata. "Saan ka kasi nagtatatakbo! Muntik ka nang mapano!"

Tumayo naman ako at pinanuod sila.

Tumingin sa amin yung ale. "Salamat ho. Pasensya na ho sa nangyari."

"Wala ho yun. I'm glad that he's fine." I smiled at them.

At that moment, may lumapit na sales lady sa amin. Tapos, dun ko lang napansin na kami nalang pala yung pinapanuod ng mga tao.

"Ma'am, we're really sorry for what happened and we're happy that no one got hurt but, you've got to pay for the damages." sabi nung saleslady.

Napasimangot naman ako. Ano ba yan. Tama ba yan? Tss. Wala na tayong magagawa. Nakabasag na tayo.

I faced Nathan and gave him puppy dog eyes. Mukha namang naintindihan nya kasi tinawanan nalang nya ako.

"Excuse me, miss," he called to the saleslady. "Charge the plates to us. And pahingi na rin ng tig-iisang set na maayos. And some spoon and forks. Thank you."

For a moment, nakatitig lang yung saleslady kay Nathan. Nabihag ata sa kagwapuhan ng asawa ko.

"Miss?" tawag ko. Baka malusaw ang asawa kong mabait eh. xD

Para namang nagising bigla yung saleslady. "Ay! Ah, yes, sir! I'll just deliver them at the cashier 1. Kindly pay them there. Thank you."

I rolled my eyes after she left. Pati ba naman mga mukhang matitinong babae, nabibihag ng asawa ko? Lol. xD

Nagpasalamat na lang yung ale sa amin ng maraming beses. Kung hindi pa ako yinakap bigla nung bata, hindi matitigil yung ale sa kakapasalamat sa amin.

I smiled habang pinapanuod ko palayo yung mag-ina. Kaya siguro na-curious si Nathan kung paano daw kung nabuntis ako. Mukhang masarap magkaanak. Chos! Haha.

I faced Nathan. "Thanks, Nathan," I kissed him on his cheek. "You're the best."

He grinned. "That's nothing, Gorgeous Wife. Pwede isa pa kiss? Hehe."

I laughed. Baliw din tong lalaking to! haha.

I reached and tried to kiss him again but, like what he did last New Year's Eve, he suddenly faced me making me kiss him on the lips!

"That's better," he smirked. "Tastes like strawberry."

Napatitig nalang ako sa kanya sabay sabing, "You thief. That was strawberry chapstick that's why it tastes like strawberry."

He just laughed, kissed me on the top of my head and placed his arms around my shoulder as we continue looking around the store.

**

*Nathan's POV*

Kakatapos lang namin mag-ayos ng gamit sa bahay namin. Kasalukuyan kami ngayon nanunuod ni Gianna ng DVD. Wala pa kasi cable eh. Kaya DVD nalang muna.

I was yawning when I felt Gianna's head drop in my shoulder. Napagod? Haha.

I turned and watched her sleeping face. I traced the bridge of her nose with my free hand. Then, her lips. Lol. She's so gorgeous. Matagal-tagal din bago ko naamin sa sarili ko na maganda talaga sya.

Thanks to that annoying bestfriend of her, I was able to appreciate her a little more. Well, I guess I was threatened, too. Para kasing anytime na magustuhan ni Sam, kaya nyang pasamahin sa kanya si Gianna. And I'd hate to see that!

I sighed. Maybe it's time to make up all those stupid things that I did to her. Sya nalang nga yung nagtitiyaga sa akin tapos, gagalitin ko pa? Sira ulo ko nalang.

I took a deep breath and smelled Gianna's hair. God, it smells so good. Ano ba shampoo nito? Sunsilk? Palmolive? Dove? Clear? ba't ang bango? Matignan nga mamaya. Hehe.

I continued on watching her face. I was more interested watching her than pretending that I'm watching the movie. Eh mas gusto ko yung feeling pag pinapanuod ko si Gi eh! Parang nakikiliti yung loob ng tiyan ko. Ewan ko ano yun. Baka nababaliw lang ako.

I think I heard my stomach groan. Lol, I'm hungry. Haha. But I didn't bother on waking Gianna up. I even tried not moving even an inch from sitting beside her. Basta pinanuod ko lang sya habang pinipigilan ko yung sarili ko sa pagtawa kasi nga parang may kumikiliti sa tiyan ko. everytime we touch, it feels like this. It's crazy, you know.

Drop everything now. Meet me in the pouring rain. Kiss me on the side walk, take away the pain.

I reached for Gianna's phone on her pocket while trying not to wake her up. Mahirap din gawin yun ah.

"Hello?" I said silently on the other line.

"Hello? Nathan? Where's Gianna? Won't you two have dinner here with me?" tanong agad ni lolo.

"Ok, ok. We'll be there." sagot ko nalang.

"Ok. See you, son."

Tinapos ko na yung call. Ganda ng timing ni lolo. Kung kelan di ko kailangan, dun sya sumingit. Tsk.

Alright. I'll wake her up after 20 minutes. Just let me watch her a littler longer.

God, she's like, my everything. I wish she could just stay with me.

**

"So, how was your day?" lolo asked.

"Oh, it was fine." I answered after swallowing the food on my mouth. "Madami kami pinamili tapos inayos namin yung bahay."

"About that, 'lo," singit ni Gianna. "Sino nyan kasama mo dito sa bahay? You can't be here with the maids only."

Lolo waved his hand. "It's ok. It's fine. I won't be staying here alone."

I frowned. "Sino kasama mo?"

"Oh, Marian will be staying here with me." lolo answered then reached for the juice glass.

I choked on his reply.

"Nathan! Ok ka lang?" alok agad ni Gianna sa akin ng tubig.

I nodded as I took and drink the water.

Nung medyo ok na ako, humarap ako ulit kay lolo. "D-dadating si lola Marian?"

He nodded. "As a matter of fact, she'll be arriving tomorrow. Pasakay na pala sya ng eroplano nung tumawag sya."

I stared at him wide-eyed. Seriously? Si lola Marian? Dadating? Oh, fudge! No way! Alam mo ba kung ano nangyayari pag nagkikita kami? Sandamakmak na bilin sa mga gusto ng babae, sa tamang ugali ng lalaki at kung anu-ano pa! At kailangan ko pa no'n i-practice yun! Kaya nga ata tahimik ako pag galing ako sa kanya sa States. Sya rin pala dahilan ba't nanunuod akong

Barbie movies. Dapat daw kasing bait ko yung mga partners ni Barbie. Ayun, na-stuck na sa akin yun. Nasanay na akong nanunuod ng Barbie pag nakikita ko sa TV.

"But, 'lo," I started. "Lola Marian is a hopeless romantic. She won't forgive you that easily for this set up."

"You mean your wedding?"

I nodded. Mukha naman naalala ni lolo. Bigla rin kasi syang napatigil sa pag nguya.

"What's the problem with her being hopeless romantic?" asked Gianna.

I faced her and held her hand. "Well, you see, love, she's a firm believer that there should be love between two married people."

She frowned her eyebrows. "And it'll be a problem because there's no love between us?"

I sighed. "Yes." Sadly, there's only a contract between us.

"We'll figure it out." she squeezed my hand and smiled.

I smiled back. It's only ok if there's love. But I really wish you can stay with me always.

Chapter 34: New lipgloss + Lola-- err.. Tita Marian = Nathan the Thief

"Uy, narinig mo na ba yung tsismis? Kasal na daw si Nathan." sabi nung isang babaeng nadaanan namin ni Des habang papunta kami sa cafeteria sa kasama nya.

"Nathan? Nathaniel Miguel? Di nga?!" gulat naman na sabi nung isa pang babae.

Napailing nalang ako. Bilis kumalat.

Tumango yung kasama nya. "Oo. Dito nga daw sa school natin nag-aaral yung asawa nya eh."

"Tss. Kapal naman ng babaeng yun. Ginayuma nya siguro si Nathan. Pakamatay na sya." inis na sabi nung isa pa.

I rolled my eyes. As if naman gagayumahin ko si Nathan. Nakipagkontrata lang ho ako. Di gayuma.

I heard Destiny giggle. "Grabe naman sila mainggit sa beauty mo, bakla."

I shrugged. "Oo nga eh. Ano gusto nila, magpatiwakal ako?"

"Haha! Baliw ka talaga, Gi. Eh di nagparty sila!"

"Ay. Oo nga no? Haha."

Dinalian nalang namin yung lakad kasi puro tungkol sa tsismis lang naman yung naririnig namin. Psh. First day palang, ganyan na. Gandang salubong sa bagong taon ah.

Pagdating namin sa cafeteria, nadatnan na namin dun sina Sam, Vince and Renz.

"Happy new year!" bati namin sa kanila pag-upo namin sa upuan namin.

Nginitian naman ako ni Sam. "Happy new year, cupcake! Nakakainis si Des. Ayaw ako papuntahin sa inyo nung new year's eve,"

I frowned. "Bakit?"

He shrugged. Tapos humarap sya kay Des na busy sa pakikipagkulitan kay Renz. Magkaugali kasi eh.

"Des, di ka pa bibiling lunch?" tawag ko sa kanya.

"Ha? Sorry Gi, diet ako eh." she smiled apologetically. "Tumaba ako this holiday eh. Sarap kasi magluto ni mama."

I smiled sadly. Pati mama ko, masarap magluto. "O sige. Ayos lang. Bibili muna akong lunch."

"Samahan na kita, Cadburry," Sam volunteered.

I took my wallet from my bag. "Tara, bes."

Tatayo na sana ako pero biglang lumapit si Nathan sa akin at may nilapag na pasta at Royal in can sa mesa ko.

"Here's your lunch," he said. "Maaga tayo pinapauwi ni lolo mamaya. Hahanapin daw tayo ni lola Marian."

"Huh? Ah. Ok, ok." gulat ko namang sabi. "Salamat."

"Wala yon." walang expression nyang sabi tapos tumingin muna kay Sam at umalis na. Problema nun? Tinopak?

For a while, tahimik lang namin pinanuod si Nathan na bumalik sa mesa nya at tahimik na kumain. Isn't he lonely, for goodness sake? Medyo matagal na rin ako dito sa school na to pero ni minsan, di ko pa nakitang may sumabay sa kanyang kumain. Makipaglandian, pwede pa.

"Anyway, guys," Renz broke the silence. "Nasabi na sa inyo yung foundation day next week?"

We nodded. 38th foundation day next week. So ibig sabihin, one week din nyan kaming walang pasok.

"What about that?" tanong ni Vince.

Renz rolled his eyes. "Di ba si Sam magrerepresent ng section natin? Sino kasi yung sa girls? Si Karen yung sa girls di ba? Eh sa inyo, Des?"

"Wala pa. Bukas ata."

I frowned at them. "Ano na pinag-uusapan nyo?"

"The Archangels, of course," sabay na sabi ni Des at Renz kaya natawa ako.

"Ano yun?" I giggled.

Si Sam ang sumagot. "Pageant yun, chocolate. Ako magrerepresent ng section namin. Gwapo ko kasi eh."

Sam talaga. Mahangin din minsan. Gwapo din naman si Vince and Renz ah? Haha.

"Si Des yung nagrepresent last year sa section nya eh." sabi ni Renz sa akin. "Sya nanalo."

"Talaga?" I giggled. Di ko expect yun ah. "Eh sa boys, sino?"

"Ako." proud na sabi ni Renz.

"Yabang," sabi naman ni Vince kaya nagsitawanan kami.

"Eh ba't di si Sam yung lumaban last year?" tanong ko.

Sam shrugged. "Pinabalik ako sa States ni mama nung foundation day last year eh,"

Tumango nalang ako. Tapos, binuksan ko na yung lalagyan ng pasta na binigay ni Nathan. Alam nya palang gusto ko yung pasta? Galing naman nya! Ay hindi. Baka lucky guess lang.

"Di ba kasal na yung si Nathan?" Renz suddenly said that made me choke.

"Ok ka lang bes?" concerned na tanong sa akin ni Sam.

Tumango-tango ako habang umiinom. Grabe. Ba't bigla kasing itatanong yun ni Renz eh.

"Di ba Gi, pinsan mo si Nathan? Sino asawa nun?" tanong pa sa akin ni Renz.

Pilit akong napangiti. Ba't ba ang laking issue nung pagpapakasal ni Nathan?

"Concerned lang kami sa asawa daw nya," sabi ni Renz.

Napakunot noo naman ako. "Bakit?"

Renz shrugged. "Madami galit kay Nathan eh. Baka madamay yung asawa nya."

Talaga? Madami galit sa asawa ko? Bakit naman? Mabait naman sya pag nakasumpong eh. "Sino naman magagalit sa lalaking yun? Eh di ba mahal na mahal ata sya lahat ng mga babae dito."

"Surprisingly, bes, halos lahat ng naging ex nya, galit sa kanya." sabi sa akin ni Sam tapos sumubo ng pasta ko. Waaaaaa! Bigay yan ni Nathan eh. :< Minsan nalang nga ako ilibre eh. Ay. Madalas na pala ngayon kung ilibre ako. xD "Di naman alam bakit."

I shrugged. Pake ko pa ba dun.

Nanahimik nalang ako at hinayaan nalang si Des, Sam at Renz at magkulitan. Itong tatlong to, magkakaugali talaga kahit kailan. Si Vince naman, ayun, may sariling mundo kasama ang cellphone. Basta ako, kakain at mananahimik nalang.

I glanced at Nathan. He sure looks lonely over there. Lapitan ko kaya? Pwede din. Mukha namang di ako kailangan dito.

Sinara ko yung lalagyan ng pasta ko tapos tumayo ako. Nagulat naman ako nung biglang hawakan ni Sam yung kamay ko.

"Bakit, bes?" I asked.

"Tapos ka na kumain? Saan ka pupunta?" tanong naman nya.

I smiled at him. "Puntahan ko lang pinsan ko daw."

Nagpaalam na rin ako kina Des, Renz and Vince tapos dinala ko sa table ni Nathan yung pagkain ko at naupo sa tapat nya.

"Oi." I grinned at him.

"What are you doing here?" he said his oh-so-annoying poker face.

Nainis naman ako dun. Parang ayaw ako kasama ah. "Pinuntahan kita. Masama?"

He didn't answer. Instead, he kept on twisting his fork on his carbonara.

I took a deep breath then stood up. "Well then, kung ayaw mo--"

Napatigil ako sa pagsasalita nung bigla nyang hinila yung kamay ko.

"Stay," he said quietly. "Please."

I gaped at him. He was asking me to stay with him? Ok. He's sudden change over the week is so bizarre!

"Stay with me, please." sabi nya ulit.

I slowly nodded then took my seat.

Binuksan ko ulit yung lalagyan ng pasta ko at kumain na. Hindi ko nalang sya pinansin.

"Your lips looks great," he said that made me look at him. "New lipgloss? Mind if I taste them later?"

I stared at him while he's smirking at me.

Before I know it, my cheeks feel heavy, sign that I'm blushing. "Oh, shut up."

**

I sighed then signaled to Nathan to stand in front of me. Kanina nya pa kasi inaayos yung buhok nya. Di nya alam anung gagawin nya para magmukhang formal. Ewan ko ba dito. Kanina pang pagdating namin dito sa bahay ni lolo, tensed na to.

"Something wrong, gorgeous wife?" he asked.

Natawa naman ako. Pag ba tinawag ko sya, may mali na agad? OA lang? Haha. "Relax, Nathan. Nothing's going to eat you." I told him. "Wag kang magulo. Ako ng bahala sayo."

He smiled apologetically to me then let me do all the work. Ginulo ko ng konti yung buhok nya. Sobrang ayos na kasi eh. As in. Mukha na syang presidente sa sobrang ayos which is so not him. Tapos binaba ko ng konti para naman maganda parin tignan. Tapos inayos ko yung kuwelyo ng coat nya. Kasi naman ang ayos ng buhok nya tapos yung kuwelyo, hindi maayos ang pagkakatupi. Haha.

Umaatras ako ng konti para mapagmasdan ko yung kabuuan nya. And I must admit it. He got style. HAHAHA. I mean, he knows how to match clothes. He's wearing a plain white shirt under his unbuttoned coat. Tapos naka pants lang sya. Mukha syang binata at pupunta lang sa bar. HAHAHA.

"O ayan, di ba." I smiled at him. "Lumabas ang kagwapuhan mo."

He smirked then grabbed me on my waist. "Matagal na akong gwapo, gorgeous wife. Now, won't you let me judge your new lipgloss?"

I laughed out loud. I married a flatterer! Haha. "Shut up, you."

"Strawberry tastes great," he continued on teasing me. "What flavor is it now?"

"Candy," I bit my lip and giggled.

"Oh. Sounds nice." sabi nya tapos tinaas-baba pa yung kilay nya. "If you just let me..."

"Stop it! Hahaha." I laughed. He's making me catch my breath and have this tickling sensation in my stomach. It's nice to feel, you know?

"What a wonderful newlywed we have here!" someone said with American accent over the door.

Napalingon naman kami ni Nathan dun. There was a woman, who I'm guessing, in 40's looking at us with dreamy expression.

"Lola Marian!" gulat na sabi ni Nathan. Tapos, tinanggal nya yung pagkakayakap nya sa bewang ko at magkahawak-kamay kaming pumunta kay 'lola Marian'.

She smiled at us. "I prefer 'tita', thank you."

Humalik naman sa pisngi ni lola-- I mean, tita Marian si Nathan. I did the same. "You look a woman in late 40's."

"Are you kidding? She looks like 40 or something." I said bewilderedly.

I'm not joking. She's, like, our grandmother? More like a sister.

Tita Marian chuckled. "I like your wife, Nathaniel. Di ba sya yung lagi mong kinukwento sa akin nung madalas ka pa sa States?"

"Tita.." Nathan complained while avoiding my stare.

"You never change, dear," tita Marian smiled at Nathan. Then she faced me. "Now, Gianna, right? How's Nathan as a husband?"

I shrugged. "He's great."

She frowned. "Really? I must see that. One of these days." Then she smiled widely again. "Kuya Martin! It's been long time!"

We turned and saw lolo Martin descending from the stairs.

"Ah, Marian," lolo smiled back. "Looking beautiful as ever."

"Of course. It's in my blood." she chuckled. "And speaking of that," humarap sya sa amin ulit. "Don't this two look dashing? You're both making me so... What was that word teens use these days? Hmm. Ah! You're both making me so kilig!"

I giggled. Parang teenager lang si lol-- I mean si tita Marian eh!

Nathan kissed my hand. "You're so hopeless, tita."

Tita Marian rolled her eyes. "Whatever, Nathan. Pakipasok mo nalang yung mga gamit ko. Be a gentleman and don't let the maids carry them. Babae parin sila kahit maid sila."

"Yes, tita." Nathan smiled then headed outside the house.

I followed him and found him staring at a huge amount of baggage. Seriously? Ganto karami yung gamit ni tita Marian?! Wow!

"Nathan?" I called.

"Ow?" he called back. "Hey, love."

"Ang dami nyan ah." I chuckled.

He shrugged. "Madami damit si tita Marian eh."

"Want some help?"

"No, thanks. Babarilin ako ni tita Marian." he said seriously.

I laughed but stop when he still looks serious. "You're joking. right?"

"Do I look like joking?" he asked then came closer to me. "Where's my kiss?"

I touched the tip of his nose. "Shut up and carry those baggage."

"Sige na."

"No. You keep on stealing kisses."

"Kiss me so I won't steal them."

Natawa nalang ako at napailing. Sasagot sana ako kaya lang biglang lumabas si tita Marian sa bahay.

She sighed dreamily. "Hay. You two look so good. I'm expecting to see more of that when I sleep over at your house." after saying that, she entered the house again.

Uhmm. Huh?

Sleep over? At our house? Huh??

"What did she just say?" I asked Nathan just to be sure.

"Sa atin daw sya matutulog." he said nonchalantly.

Then, he stole a kiss again in my lips, making me more confused.

Ano daw? Si tita Marian? Sa amin matutulog? Bakit?

And, oh. Nathan smells nice. His lips feels soft, too.

Nakakasanayan na ata namin ah?

Pero teka lang ha. Teka. SI TITA MARIAN? SA AMIN MUNA?! DI BA AKALA NYA INLOVE KAMI NI NATHAN SA ISA'T ISA?! OWEMGEE! PAANO NA NYA?!?!

Late reaction ako. Tsk. Hinahalikan kasi ako ni Nathan eh.

Chapter 35: When I'm With You.

I was running as fast as I can when Des called me back again. Kanina pa kasi naghihintay si Nathan sa kotse nya. Baka mainip kakahintay sa akin at topakin pa. Baka iwan ako ng wala sa oras.

Des was saying something when I looked back at her. Tapos nagthumbs up sya. Tumangotango nalang ako at nagthumbs up din. Itatanong ko nalang sa kanya sa susunod kung ano sinasabi nya. Nagmamadali ako eh.

Pagdating ko sa parking lot, I easily spotted Nathan's car. Sya lang naman kasi ang nakaconvertible (Opo. Ganyang kayaman si Nathan. Iba-iba sasakyan. Depende sa trip nya. Di ko nga alam kung maaamaze ako o ano eh. =___=). At sa tapat lang ng kotse nya may nakatayong babae na mukhang kinakausap sya. Alanya naman. Nambababae nanaman ata to. Lagot sa akin to paglapit ko.

Pero, mali ata hinala ko. Nung naglakad kasi palayo sa kotse si girlalush at dumaan sa harap ko, mukha syang nalugi.

"Already married, already married." inis na bulong ni girlalush. "I'm gonna strangle that b***h when I find out who she was. Madapa sana."

Pinanood ko lang si naluging octopusit nung nilagpasan ako. Kawawa naman pala asawa ni Nathan. Mukha balak ipamassacre. Buti nalang di ako-- Ay, fudge. Ako nga pala yun! Ako! So balak pala nila akong ipamassacre, huh? Over Nathan's hot body (Believe me, he's hot. I've seen it. ;P)! Oo, kay Nathan katawan. Sya lang naman may kasalanan ba't nababaliw mga babae sa kanya eh.

Hinahayaan kong lumipad yung isip ko habang naglalakad papunta sa kotse nung napilitan sya bumalik. May pagka-mangkukulam ata yung babae ni Nathan eh! Hindi naman ako nadapa. Natapilok lang naman ako! Medyo masakit yung pagkakatapilok ko huh! May heels kasi sapatos ko eh. Pero di naman ganun kataas. Masakit lang talaga pagkakatapilok ko, isama mo na ang dahilan na kahiya-hiya yung nangyari pero nung naglakad ako ulit, kumikirot nalang. Di naman mukhang napilay o kailangan putulin ang paa ko.

Sumakay ako agad sa kotse ni Nathan pagdating ko. Mukhang di naman sya galit nung tinignan ko. Nakatitig nga lang sya sa akin eh.

"Ano yun, ha?" tanong ko sa kanya.

"Alin?"

"Yung si octopusit. Ano ginagawa dito?"

"Ahh." he started the car engine. "Nangungulit."

I scowled. "At nagpakult ka naman? Tss."

Ngumiti lang sya sa akin tapos kumuha ng panyo sa bulsa nya at pinunas sa beautiful face kong pinagpawisan dahil sa kakatakbo. "No. I told her that I'm married to a gorgeous lady."

I felt myself blush. "Oh, shut up. Kaya galit na galit sa akin mga babae mo eh."

"They're just jealous." he said then started driving.

I didn't answer because I can still feel the heavy feeling of my cheeks. I hate to admit it but I'm still blushing from what he said earlier.

Tahimik lang kami habang nagbibiyahe. That's why it made me wonder what is he thinking of.

"What are thinking of?" tanong ko nalang. La eh. Nacurious ako eh. Tahimik nya eh.

"Nothing particular." he shrugged. "Why?"

"Wala naman." I said. Tapos natahimik nanaman kami. Di naman ako naiilang o ano pero di ako sanay na tahimik si Nathan. "Ba't business yung kinuha mo? Ako, kaya ko kinuha yung Architecture kasi gusto ko pag may nakita yung mga tao na building o bahay na maganda yung design, pangalan ko yung sasabihin pag tinanong kung sino yung architect."

He smiled at me. "That's a nice goal."

"Ikaw nga? Ba't business?"

"Kasi ako maghahandle ng company."

"Yun lang?" I asked him skeptically. Di nga? Yung lang dahilan?

He nodded. I rolled my eyes. "Don't you have, ooh, I don't know-- a dream?"

Hindi sya sumagot kaya naman bumuntong hininga nalang ako at sumandal sa upuan ko.

"I wanted to be an engineer." he suddenly said that made me look at him. "So I can build my way to your heart."

He was smirking so I thought he's making fun of me.

"Haha." I snorted. "Funny."

He chuckled. "Haha. No. Seriously. I wanted to be an engineer. A civil engineer to be exact. But I gave it up when I realize that the company needs me more."

I stared at him. I never imagined Nathan dreaming about being at engineer.

"Why did you give up?" I asked a bit dissapointed.

Nathan shrugged. "Lolo can't handle the company forever."

"But, that's not fair."

"Who said that life's fair?" he glanced at me then touched the tip of my nose. "We can't always have the things we want in life. That's why everything we have, even if they're just little things, are so precious. Because sometimes, this little things are always the things that others can never have."

I stared at him, not believing how can he say those things. "You mean, dreaming of something is just a simple little but, other people can't do it?"

Nathan shrugged. "Maybe."

I didn't answer. Instead, I stared at him. I just realized that Nathan's life seems so perfect but, like the moon on it's perfectly fullest, there will always be a dark side in it.

**

"W-wait, 'lo," I said slowly to lolo. "You want us to act like we're madly in love with each other? Me and Nathan? Us? Seriously?"

Lolo Marting nodded. "You heard me right, Gi. Do it or we'll deal with my little sister's tantrums, anger, dissapointment and hurt."

I sighed. Heto ako, namroroblema. Habang si Nathan, nagfe-facebook lang ata! Tumatawa pa mag-isa!

I paced back and forth. "Well, it's your fault in the first place, 'lo. Pinakasal mo kami."

"Hey!" Nathan called. Nakikinig pala sa amin to? "We're doing just fine, aren't we?"

"Yes, yes," I answered impatiently. "You've changed alot so we're doing just fine. But, what is this 'madly in love newly weds'? What do we need to do?"

"You've got to act like real newly weds." lolo said.

"Ano gagawin namin?"

Nathan smirked while staring at the desktop's screen. "Sleep in one bed."

Lolo nodded. "I'll make this an exception on the contract."

Nathan continued on talking. "Kiss each other. Cuddle. Say sweet thing. Eat sweetly together."

I scowled. "Isn't that a little extreme? As in ultra, mega, super extreme?"

Nathan rolled his eyes. "That's what newly weds do."

Lolo nodded. "He's right."

Marahas akong napabuntong hininga. "Ok. What else?"

Lolo shrugged. He's not even helping us!

"Go out in a long walks together." Nathan answered. "Then, hmm. What's this... Ahh. Bathe together."

I nodded. "Oh. That's ea--" Wait. Bathe together? Maligo ng magkasama!? "You bloody pervert!"

I picked up the first thing that I saw near me; my bag. Then, I threw it aimly at Nathan. Seriously?! Bathe together?! Are you effing kidding me?!

"H-hey!" he said the caught my bag.

"Anong 'bathe together' ka dyan!?"

"Gianna," lolo called. "Relax. Nathan's joking."

Yinakap ni Nathan yung bag ko. "Yun yung nakasulat dito sa Google eh!"

I growled. Bathe together?! WTFudge! That's just so embarassing!

"Ok, ok. That was just a joke." Nathan said. Napailing nalang si lolo.

"Gianna, wag ka masyado affected. Just relax and let Nathan do all the work. Aftre all, we, Miguels' are charmers."

Yeah, right. Nathan just proved that by having those octopusits clinging on him.

Tumayo na si Nathan sa pagkaupo tapos lumapit sa akin. Then, he turned to lolo.

"We want an allowance increase after this, old man."

Lolo shrugged. "Do it well and I'll double your allowance."

"Deal." sabi nalang ni Nathan tapos hinila na ako palabas ng office ni lolo.

Napabuntong hininga naman ako at napailing. Badtrip lang, dre.

"Nathan," I called him.

"Hmm?"

"Anong balak mo nyan?"

He smiled at me. "Don't worry. Everything will be alright. I wasn't a casanova for nothing."

I pulled him to stop. "You're saying that you're gona treat me like those octopusits?"

"Now, Gi--"

"Sht! Don't you dare." I pulled my hand from his hold out of frustration. "Gosh. You're leveling me with your flings? Kapal mo."

And with that, I stormed out of the building and hailed a taxi. Bahala sya! Grabe. Ganon?! Para magmukha kaming baliw sa isa't isa, tatratuhin nya ako gaya ng pagtrato nya sa mga octopusits nya?! Anong feeling nya non?! Kapal nya!

**

I continued glaring at Josh Hutcherson's face while watching Journey to the center of the Earth. Badtrip talaga yung Nathan na yun. Ni hindi man sumunod sa akin. Tss.

I glanced at the door when I heard a knock.

"Had a fight with your dear husband?" bungad kaagad sa akin ni tita Marian.

Sumbong naman ata kaagad si Nathan. "Kind of, tita."

Umupo sya sa tabi ko.

"You know, Gianna," tita Marian started. "Having an arguement with your husband is just a tiny step in a happy marriage. But that doesn't mean you should always fight."

I shrugged. Tapos lumapit si Nathan sa ain.

"Tita, can I talk to my wife?" he asked.

"Oh. Sure, dear." sagot naman ni Tita Marian.

"In private?" dagdag ni Nathan nung di gumalaw si tita Marian.

"Oh." she chuckled then stood up. "Pardon me. Well then, I'll just look around the house."

Nathan nodded. "If you need anything, just talk to ate Beth."

Tumango naman si tita Marian tapos umalis na. Nathan occupied the seat where tita Marian was sitting on before.

I just stared and waited for him to talk. And, he just stared back. Ah, so... ganyan? Titigan nalang? Kung ganon rin la--

"I won't treat you the way I treat those girls." he started. "What I mean about what I said earlier is, I'll just, like, be myself. What's the point of watching all those unending Barbie movies if I treat you badly?"

"O tapos? Ano gusto mong gawin ko?" I said.

He held my hand, sending warm sensations on my stomach that made it flip. Tss. "Can you forgive me for making you mad?"

I stared at his pleading eyes. Gawd. How can I say no to those eyes!?

"Fine." I said defeatedly.

He smiled, showing his dimples again. Geeeeez. "Thanks."

"I hate you." I pouted. Ba't ba lagi kong napagbibigyan tong lalaking to?

"I know." he chuckled. "Now, gorgeous wife, whatever I do, just act natural, ok?"

I shrugged. There he goes with his 'Gorgeous Wife' to me. It's making my stomach flip over in happiness. Tss.

He, then, touched the tip of my nose. "You're gorgeous."

I felt myself go red. Argh. Ba't ba napapadalas pag-atake ni blush? "Stop teasing."

He chuckled. "Come closer."

Ginawa ko naman. Paglapit ko sa kanya, may binulong sya sa akin.

"When I catch you, I'm gonna tickle you until you drop." he whispered.

I glanced slowly at him then bit my lip. He's freaking serious!

Tumayo ako at dahan-dahang lumayo sa kanya. "Oh, no. Oh, no, no, no."

He smirked evilly. Owmegas. "Oh, yes."

"Don't you da-- Ahh!" I screamed when he tried to grab me.

Oh, no!! He's freaking bloody serious and he's coming after me!

"Stop! Nathan! Wag! Hahaha!" I laughed when he tried me again. This time, nagpaikot-ikot kami sa sofa na parang mga bata. XD

At dahil na rin mabilis gumalaw si Nathan, di pa man ako nakakalayo sa kanya, nahuli nya na ako!

And, I was like, laughing with abandon while he's tickling me on my sides. We laughed in harmony together because of our silliness.

"HAHAHA! T-tama na! P-please! Hahaha!" I begged him nung napahiga na ako sa sahig kakatawa.

"No," he chuckled. "I love the sound of your laugh."

"Shut up-- HAHAHAHA!" I laughed out loud again. Then, I made a grab and hugged him just to make him stop.

"Tama n-na. Please?" sabi ko sa kanya habang tumatawa at humihingal.

"Ok, ok." he said whild laughing. Then, he stopped tickling me.

We laid there on the floor, staring at each other's eyes.

"Don't leave me like that again, ok?" he said the brushed some strands of my hair that fell to my face.

"Ok." I said then got up and pulled him.

He got up then smiled and stared at me intently. Like he was saying that he's happy being with me.

The thought made me smile. I think Nathan did changed. Maybe he cares for me now that we're married. And, you know what? I'm happy that I'm with him. ;)

Chapter 36: In his arms.

Owmaygas. Owmaygas. OWMAYGAS. PAANO AKO MAKAKATULOG NETO?!

I stared hopelessly at Nathan's bed. It's big, clean and of course, single.

I paced back and forth. Di naman ako mukhang ninenerbiyos no? Eh kasi naman eh! Di ako sanay na may katabi eh! Ba't ba kasi gusto ni tita Marian na dito muna sa amin eh. -___-

Pano kaya kung manuod muna ako kunwari sa labas tapos pag tulog na si tita Marian, dun ako papasok sa kwarto ko at matutulog? Ay hindi. Baka magtaka kinabukasan. Hay nako. Ano bang gagawin k--

"Uy!"

"Ay baklang kabayo!" I clutched my chest. Walangyang Nathan. Nanggugulat! x_x

"Bwisit ka naman eh!" I told him while catching my breath. Ba't kaya pag nagugulat, parang tumakbo sa 10km dash race?

Tumawa lang sya. "Ano bang binubulong mo dyan?"

Ah! Alam ko na! "Sa sahig ka nalang matulog."

He stuck his tongue out. "Asa."

"Sige na. Pleeeeease."

"Ayoko nga. Sasakit katawan ko. Paano ako makakapasok bukas?"

"Wag ka kasi pumasok." I told him. "Nakikipaglandian ka lang naman eh."

He headed to his closet. "Anong nakikipaglandian. May quiz kami bukas. Di ako pwede mag absent."

"Bakit naman?"

"Dean's lister ho ako ale."

Nanlaki mata ko. "Huweh? Hindi nga?"

"Oo kaya."

I sighed then stared at him. Alangya. Basa pa pala sya tapos lumabas na ng banyo? Pano kung madulas kami nyan? Eh di naaksidente kami? Lalaking to talaga!

"Nathan naman," I complained. "Ba't ka naman lumabas ng banyo na basa pa? Baka naman madulas tayo nyan eh."

He stared at me like 'huh?'. "You're bothered that I'm walking around still wet?"

I rolled my eyes. "Like duh."

He smirked then came closer to me. "Aren't you bothered by the fact that I'm half-naked and I'm coming closer to you?"

Err. Now that you mention that...

Umatras ako ng konti at umiwas ng tingin sa kanya. "Magbihis ka nga."

"I sleep without my clothes on."

"I don't care. Just wear your shirt on."

Lalo pa syang lumapit sa akin kaya naman lalo akong umatras. "You're blushing, love."

"Psh. Shut up. I am not." pagkakaila ko naman sa kanya. Owemgee. Sinapian ho ba tong si Nathan?! Waaaa! He's so close! I can even feel his warm breath!

"This is funny." he teased then pushed me to the bed.

Waaaa! Shemay! Owmaygas! Napapano si Nathan!? Sasabog na ata puso ko sa kaba!

"You're obviously inexperienced, dear." he chuckled then caressed my face.

Ba't ganon?! Naka-on yung aircon pero pinagpapawisan ako sa kaba! Waaaa! Kung ano man ang sumanib kay Nathan, lumabas ka! Lubayan mo asawa ko!

Bigla-bigla, tumawa sya ng malakas at tumayo. "You're so virgin. I can't even tease you 'bout sex."

Is it bad to be inexperienced? Di naman ah. Nakakainis! Pinagtitripan lang pala ako nitong lalaking to! Akala ko naman may balak akong i-rape! Di sana ako papalag. Dejoke lang! Joke lang yon! Pramis! I swear!

But, surprisingly, I don't even have the motivation to get mad at him! Bakit? Bakit!? BAKEEEET?!? Tss. Makaganti nalang nga! Hehehe. >:)

"Kala ko may balak ka." I pouted then stood up. "Di sana ako papalag."

He stared at me. "You kidding?"

Of course! XD "Sayang talaga." umiling-iling pa ako tapos tinanggal ko yung cardigan ko at pajamas para naka-shorts and tank top nalang ako. Tapos pumwesto na ako sa kama. Huh. I'm gonna drive him crazy. >:)

"You're not serious." he said then took some clothes then headed back to the bathroom. Pagbalik nya, naka-sando sya at boxers.

I smirked evilly at myself when he took his place beside me. "Isn't it so hot in here?"

He ignored me and turned on the TV through the remote.

I laughed at the back of my mind. I'm not that inexperienced, you know.

I played with Nathan's hair to drive him to the edge. Kaninang-kanina ko pa gustong tumawa. Why? Because Nathan's biting his lip so hard that they turned white! Hahaha!

A little more tease and maybe, he'll sleep on the floor. Hehehe.

"Nathan." I called sweetly then caressed his face.

Pero nabigla ako nung bigla nyang hinawakan yung kamay ko. Then, he turned to me.

"Stop teasing me, love." he started. "Your sweet talks are turning me on."

I blushed on what he said. I only meant to tease him, you know. "I was just teasing."

Naupo sya at hinarap ako. "And it's working." he touched the tip of my nose. "Let's face it. You're a gorgeous lady. I'm a guy in my late teen years with a raging hormone. We're sharing in one bed. You'll drive me crazy, love."

I realized that he's right. Bumuntong hininga nalang ako at humiga ng maayos. "Ok, ok. I'll stop. Baka gahasahin mo kasi ako at hindi pa ako manlaban. Dejoke lang. Cool ka lang."

He chuckled then kissed the top of my head. "Sleep. I'll watch over you."

"Yeah, ok." I said then closed my eyes. "Turn the lights off."

"Ok. Goodnight."

"'night." I said then hid under the blanket.

But, no matter how I try, I just can't go to sleep! Why? Di ako sanay na may katabi! Oh, gawd. This is going to be a looong night.

**

A low knock on the door woke me up.

Anong oras na ba? 9:30 palang pasok ko eh. Sino ba yung nanggigising? Halos ngayon lang ako nakatulog eh.

I scratched the back of my ear then stretched. Ahh. That's better.

I opened my eyes then found myself staring into an unfamiliar ceiling. Where the hell am I?

I glanced at my surroundings and found Nathan staring at me. Then I remembered. Dito nga pala sa bahay namin natutulog si tita Marian kaya sa kwarto ako ni Nathan natutulog.

Nathan smiled at me. "Morning."

"'ning."

Sabay kaming napatingin sa pintuan nung may kumatok ulit.

"Halika. Dali." Nathan suddenly pulled me. "Para wala ng maitanong si lola Marian."

I frowned. "Di ba, 'tita' Marian dapat?"

"'yaan mo." he said then hugged me, burying my face on his chest. "Hug me back and pretend that you're asleep."

"Ambigat mo." I complained. Nakadagan kasi sya sa akin ng konti eh.

"Shut up." he shushed. Then, at that moment, the door opened.

I hugged him back then closed my eyes and pretended that I'm asleep, just like what Nathan said.

Sumilip ako ng konti at nakita ko si tita Marian na pinagmamasdan yung kabuuan ng kwarto ni Nathan.

Napapikit ako ulit nung lumapit sya sa amin.

"Hay." she sighed dreamily. "Don't they look good?"

'Look good' ka dyan, tita Marian. Nangangawit na kaya ako.

A few moments later, I heard the door open, then, close again.

"She's gone." Nathan said.

"Baka bumalik." I told him, not letting him go. What? It feels good. And he smells good.

"Di yun."

"Malay mo."

Nathan chuckled. "Enjoying there?"

I glanced up and smiled at him. "Para kang sina papa."

"Come again?"

"Para kang si papa." I repeated.

He frowned. "Bakit?"

"I feel protected." I said then hugged him tight.

"Ah. Akala ko may balbas o bigote akong sumulpot overnight." he chuckled.

I grinned. It's so nice to have some protective arms around you. "Payakap ulit. Yung mahigpit."

Ginawa naman nya. "Happy?"

"Yes." I answered then closed my eyes.

Tahimik lang si Nathan habang yakap-yakap ako. I like the way how he hug me and make me feel protected like my dad. May pagkakaiba nga lang. When dad hugs me, I feel protected and warm. But when Nathan hugs me, I feel protected, warm and beautiful.

How crazy is that, huh?

**

"Oh, bloody hell." Destiny cursed when I entered our room. "What the hell happened to your eyes?"

"Huh?" I took my seat then yawned. "Di ako nakatulog ng maayos kagabi eh. Bakit?"

"I'm doomed. We're doomed." she stared at me hopelessly. "Sabi ko na eh. I should've given you instructions."

"Bakit ba? Tungkol saan?"

She rolled her eyes. "I told you yesterday that I registered you to be an Angel. Ngayon yung screening eh."

"Angel? Ano naman yun?"

"Yung pageant. Sinali kita, di ba?"

"You WHAT?!" I stood up surprisely.

Angel? Pageant? Ano daw? Taena. Ano yun?!

"Di ba sinabi ko sayo kahapon? Tumango ka pa at nag-ok." she sighed. "Now, go somewhere and sleep. I'll pick you up this afternoon. Excused ka naman as long as may kaugnayan sa contest."

I gaped at her. Seriously? Sinali nya ako sa contest? Beauty contest? Anong laban ko dun?! Malay ko ba dun?!

"Seriously, Gi. Stop gaping at me. Halika na nga." she said then pulled me. "Sasamahan na kita."

"Pakisabi kay prof., nagprepare lang si Gi," Des told our classmates. "Thanks guys. I'll throw in some pizza if we win."

Tapos, hinila nya na ako palabas hanggang sa makapunta kami sa parking lot. We rode a red Idon't-know-what-model-is-this car. Then, Des drove all the way to a salon.

And I was quiet all the way. Why?

BECAUSE MY HEAD IS FULL OF ANGELS, BEAUTY CONTEST, SCHOOL, PIZZA AND LONGING TO SLEEP!

Ah, yes. I think I just sounded like I'm hysterical. But, you know what? I AM HYSTERICAL AND FREAKING OUT. WHAT AM I GONNA DO?!

Everything went so fast. Des and I entered the salon. She gave instructions. We lied down on a long inclined seat. They washed my hair. They put something on my face. Covered my eyes with cucumbers. I fell asleep when they were giving me manicures and pedicures. Oh. I could care less as long as I can sleep.

When I woke up, I feel like a new born child. My hairs soft and silky. My face is fresh and soft. And my skin is soft to. Ok. What did they do to me?!

"She's awake." announced someone. "Time for make up."

"I--" I started. But before I can even talk, someone started putting liquid foundation to my face.

Defeated and confused, hinayaan ko nalang sila. Bahala na.

Nung tapos na silang pakelaman at lagyan ng make up ang mukha ko, halos hindi ko na nakilala yung sarili ko. Dejoke. I still look like me. And, ok. I must admit it but, I look pretty. They made the make up look natural so, no problems there.

Now, they're tackling my hair. They're so happy that it's so long that they were itching to cut it short. And when they asked if they can cut it? I told them to get lost. Haha. I was just joking! I told them that they can only cut a small part of it.

What they did to my hair is, they straightened up the upper part then curled the lower part. They told it looks good so I assumed they're lying. Who the hell will tell they're clients that they're ugly?

After tackling my hair, they pulled me up. Tapos pinagbihis na ako ni Des. Binili daw nya ako ng damit kaninang natutulog ako.

"Sana kasya." said Des when she gave the dress to me.

I shrugged then entered the CR. The dress was simple black cocktail dress. It's backless and a bit so I guess Nathan will go crazy if he sees me like this.

Oh, stupid thought. Ba't ko ba naisip yun?

I sighed and wore the dress carefully. Baka magulo ang make up. Tapos, lumabas din ako agad.

"Kyaa! You're so gorgeous!" said Des.

She reminded me of Nathan. "Thanks."

"Wear the heels later." she said. "Now, let's go."

**

I paced back and forth in our room as I wait for the time. Des told me to wait half an hour more because she doesn't me to go to the screening so early. I was supposed to be a secret, she said.

But, now. I'm freaking out. I texted Sam but he told me that everything's going to be alright.

I hope so.

Sa sobrang kaba ko, natext ko din si Nathan. Tinanong lang nya kung nasan ako. Tapos di na sumagot nung nagreply ako.

I fanned myself with my hands. Naka-aircon naman kami kaya lang baka pagpawisan ako sa kaba.

I can't help it. First time ko to. What if matapilok ako? What if ma-mental block ako? What if kung anu-ano pagsabi ko? What if--

"Gianna. Nathan's calling you." Abigail told me with a hint of surprise.

"Ah. Right. Thanks." I told her then rushed to the door.

When I opened it, I found Nathan standing and waiting for me.

"Nathan!" I called and almost jumped to him. "I-- I-- God. I'm bloody nervous!"

"It's alright, Gi. Everything will be ok." he assured and hugged me back.

"What if it doesn't?" I asked, trying not to cry and ruin the make up.

He kissed the top of my head. "It will. Trust me. Do you trust?"

"Yes."

"Then, you'll be ok. Just be yourself. Answer the questions like I was the one who asked them." he told me.

I nodded then I faced him. "Stay with me?"

He looked surprised for a moment but he smiled and nodded so I wasn't sure.

"Twirl for me?" he asked. I smiled and turned around slowly. "You look gorgeous."

"I've been told that."

"Oh, yeah?" he went behind me then hugged me. "Have they told you that you're beautiful, amazing, sweet, and wonderful?"

I laughed. "Stop that."

"What? It's true."

"Ok, ok. Shut up and thanks."

He chuckled but didn't answer. He just continued on hugging me from the behind.

In his arms, I feel protected. I feel gorgeous. I feel great. Complete. Wonderful. It has an effect to me that being in his arms calms me. I wonder if I would ever feel this feeling to others or I will only feel this in Nathan's arms.

Chapter 37: Lose control.

Oh, God. I made. I MADE it. I'm an Angel. Well, not THAT angel. I mean, the candidates are called 'Angels' and the winners are called 'Archangels'. I know it's weird but, that's what my school is.

"Gianna!" called Destiny then hugged me. "Congrats, girl! Sabi ko na eh! May laban ka! Kaya bet kita eh!"

I smiled at her. "I made it."

"I know! Haha." she laughed then pulled me towards Sam.

Oh, right. He made it, too. Sya kaya unang tinawag sa boys.

"Congrats, bes." he said then pulled me into a tight hug. "We made it."

I hugged him back. Tapos nagsimula na kami maglakad palabas ng St. Mary's Hall. Nasa may labasan na kami nung may biglang sumalubong sa amin.

"Nathan!" I called happily. "I made it!"

Lumapit sya sa akin tapos hinawi yung ilang strands ng buhok ko na tumatakip sa mukha ko. "Of course you'll make it. You're imperfectly perfect."

"Oh, shut up. Haha."

"May pasok ka pa?" he asked.

Si Des yung sumagot. "Wala na sya. Kainggit nga eh."

Talaga? Wala na ako pasok for today? Yes! XD

"Oh, really?" Nathan said thoughtfully. "Well then, I'll steal my gorgeous wife away from you guys."

"Ha? Alis na tayo?" I asked him.

"Ayaw pa ata umuwi ni Gi." singit ni Sam. Teka. Ba't parang masama tingin nya kay Nathan? xD "Wag mo pilitin."

Nathan stared intently to Sam with a poker face. Napano tong mga lalaking to? XD "I'm not forcing her. I just promised our lola that I would take my wife straight home from school."

"Ganun ba? O sige. Tara na." I said thoughtfully then faced Destiny. "Des, una na ako sa room. Kunin ko na mga damit ko."

"Ha? O sige." Des smiled.

"Bye, Sam. Bye, Des." paalam ko sa kanila. Tapos kinuha ni Nathan yung kamay ko at sabay kaming pumunta sa Architetural building.

Agad din akong umalis ng room nung nakuha ko na yung gamit ko. Paglabas ko, nadatnan ko si Nathan na hinihintay ako sa may exit ng building.

He smiled then reached for my bag. "Di ka na magpapalit?"

I shook my head. He smiled then held my hand. "Tara."

We made our way to the parking lot where Nathan's car waits. Bago kami sumakay, hinalikan nya muna ako sa noo. Shet. Ba't ganon? Parang kinikilig ako. XD

We entered the car then Nathan turned the engine on. Tapos, bago sya magdrive, kinuha at hinawakan nya yung kamay ko.

He was holding it while driving. Hindi nya binitiwan. Shet. I feel like I'm a princess. XD

"Ano gagawin mo para sa talent?" tanong nya bigla.

Talent? Hmm. I shrugged. "Sing. I dunno. I'm not really good at dancing."

"You do that." he said. "I love hearing your voice."

"Oh? Really?" I glanced at him.

He nodded. "Yeah. O kaya tumawa ka nalang. Your laugh sounds fascinating. Like a bell ringing sweetly."

I giggled. Is he flattering me or what? XD "Oh, shut up. Haha."

"I'm not kidding! It does sound amazing."

"Baka naman pagkamalan akong pakawala ng mental."

"Ay. Oo nga no? Haha."

I chuckled but didn't answer. Ano nga kaya yung ipepresent ko?

Napalingon ako kay Nathan nung pisilin nya yung kamay ko. "Just sing."

I smiled. It's decided then. "Ok."

Shortly, then. We arrived at our house. Pagpasok ko, sinalubong ako agad ni tita Marian.

"Gianna!" she called. "Don't you look gorgeous?"

"Of course she's gorgeous." Nathan commented. My cheeks burned like crazy. Eeeh. Stop praising me. XD Baka masanay ako. Dejoke. Haha. "I only choose the best, tita."

"Ah, yes. And Gianna is the best for you." tita Marian smiled. Then, she signaled me to twirl slowly.

I giggled then made a twirl.

"Aw. Your dress flatters your figure." she said dreamily then patted my cheeks. "You look so lovely, dear."

"Thanks, tita Marian." I smiled. Masyado ata akong napuri this day ah? XD "Bihis lang ako."

Tita Marian smiled and nodded.

Umakyat ako sa kwarto ni Nathan at naupo sa kama. Tapos tinanggal ko yung heels ko. Ahh. Much better. Nakakangawit kaya magsuot ng heels.

I heard a knock on the door. "Bakit?"

Boses ni Nathan yung sumagot. "Papasok ko lang gamit mo."

"Ok."

He entered the room and smiled at me. Tapos tinabi nya yung gamit ko sa isang side.

Pinanuod ko lang sya. Shemay. Ang gwapo ng asawa ko. Mehe. Tapos ang bait na! Solid. :">

He stared at me when he found me staring at him. Then, he smiled at me. Gawd. He looks great in school uniform.

"Gi?" he called.

"Hm?" I smiled then reached for his hand when he came near me.

He played with my hand before answering. "Don't you think it's time to let our schoolmates that we're married?"

Napabuntong hininga ako sa sinabi nya. "Nathan, napag-usapan na natin yan."

"But Gi--"

"No, Nathan." I said dismissively then stood up.

"Don't be stubborn."

"I am not being stubborn!" I told him. "Can't you see? I don't want to let our schoolmates know that I'm married to you because they won't leave me be! Especially all of your flings!"

"I don't give a damn about them! They're all from the past." he said then came near me.

Nahilamos ko yung kamay ko sa mukha sa inis. "The past still haunts you! Tulad kahapon! Binabalikan ka parin ng mga babae mo! And you know what they say about your wife? They call her b**ch, they say she's a witch and made you drink a fckng love potion and they want to fckng hurt her! And that wife of yours is me!"

"I'm doing this to protect you!" he yelled back at me. "Do you think I don't hear those things?! I hear them! And you know what?! Some other guys want you! Yes, they fckng want you and I

have to pretend that I don't give a damn! Especially now that your name's starting to spread over the school!"

"And how the hell do you expect me to be protected when the whole school knows that I'm you're wife?!" I yelled at him. God, I'm so mad at him! Ba't di nya ba maintindihan!? I'm scared!

Nathan stared at me then snorted. "Sht! For heaven's sake, stop looking so gorgeous when I'm mad at you!"

I-- "What?"

Nathan started phasing back and forth. "That's exactly what I'm scared of! They want you and you don't have any idea about it! You're so naive! And for those girls. Please! I've got enough brains to know how to make them leave you alone!"

I frowned. "What the hell are you talking about?"

He glanced at me then groaned. Tapos bigla nya akong hinila at hinalikan.

I stood there surprised. We were fighting, aren't we?

But the kiss deepened that I found myself kissing him back.

"I'm so mad at you." Nathan said between the kiss.

"Shut up." I told him and continued kissing.

I don't know but I just want to kiss this guy. I want him so badly that I unconsciously raised my arms and played with his hair while kissing him.

The kiss became more agressive, more deep. I don't know what happened but I found myself in Nathan's bed.

I can hear nothing. Only our moans and groans. And I think I can hear my heart fluttering.

Oh, God. What am I doing?

Something in the back of my mind is telling me to stop. But I can't. No. Not that I can't. I don't want to.

I opened my eyes when Nathan pulled himself. I found on top of me. He was looking at me with a wild look and longing in his eyes. But before I can say something, he owned my lips again and my thoughts went crazy.

God, I want him.

Suddenly, I heard a ripping sound. But I ignored it and turned around with Nathan, not breaking our kiss.

Then, blag! Nathan fell from the bed. At first he was just staring at me. Then suddenly, nasampal nya yung kamay nya sa noo nya.

"Sht." he cursed. "I'm sorry. God, I'm sorry."

It feels like I woke up from a dream. Napatingin ako sa katawan ko. Oh, geez. Punit yung dress ko. >_<

I-- Wait. Una pa akong nagreact tungkol sa dress ko! Sht! We almost did that thing!

"Oh, damn." I hissed.

Tumayo si Nathan tapos kumuha ng damit ko at inabot sa akin. "I'm sorry. It was my fault."

"No, it wasn't." I said wide eyed. "It wasn't your fault. I gave in. Oh, fck."

He pulled me into a tight hug. "I'm sorry. I just... lose control. I didn't mean to do that."

I nodded. I understand. I lose control, too. I have my faults, too.

"And, Gianna?" he called again.

"Hm?"

"That thing that I said before? That you're a bad kisser? That was a lie."

I frowned then looked at him. "Ha?"

He smirked. "You're such a great kisser that you drive me crazy."

I chuckled. "Oh, shut up."

"It's true." he said tapos binitiwan ako. "Now, magbihis ka na kasi kina lolo tayo magdidinner. Lalabas na ako at baka magahasa kita."

I laughed out loud. "At baka di ako pumalag. O sya na at lumabas ka na."

Nathan chuckled then kissed me on the top of my head. Tapos, lumabas na sya.

I headed to the bathroom to take a bath.

Lose control, huh? It's embarrassing but it was great. I can still feel my heart beating fast. Oh. No wonder those girls go crazy about him. He is such a great kisser.

**

"Nathan, ba't namamaga ata labi mo?"

I almost choked at my food when I heard that.

Inabutan ako ni tita Marian ng tubig. "Ok ka lang, Gi?"

I nodded as I drink. Then, I glanced at Nathan. Namamaga nga yung labi! And he's smirking mischieviously.

"Oh. You know, 'lo. Nahulog sa kama." he smirked at me.

I scowled at him. He better not mention that thing earlier!

"Ba't ka naman nahulog sa kama?" tanong naman ni tita Marian.

Lalo pang napangiti si Nathan. Oh, sht. "I lose control..."

Goddamn.

"And fell when I was asleep." dugtong nya.

Whew! Nakahinga ata ako ng maluwag dun ah.

I glared at Nathan. He was silently laughing and enjoying my face expression.

Eh kasi naman eh! Pilit kong ginagawang expressionless mukha ko pero di ko magawa!

"O, Gianna? Ba't namumula ka naman?" tanong sa akin ni lolo.

"Oo nga. Why are you blushing?" second the motion naman ni Nathan.

I hid my face with my hair. "Di ah."

"You are." pilit ni Nathan.

Tita Marian chuckled. "Stop teasing your wife. Nahihiya o."

"But she's blushing!" sabi naman ni Nathan. Eeeh!

"Tama si Nathan." sabat pa ni lolo. Tumawa lang si tita Marian.

Eeh! Pinagtutulungan nila ako! >_< Kainis naman!

Chapter 38: Kinikilig kasi eh. :>

"Gorgeous wife, matulog ka na." tawag sa akin ni Nathan habang may tinatype sya sa laptop nya.

I rolled my eyes. "9 PM palang. Wag ka ngang KJ. Ganda ng pinapanuod eh."

"Baka naman magpuyat ka pa dyan?"

"Hindi." sabi ko sa kanya tapos tumayo ako sa pagkakadapa ko sa kama nya tapos tumayo sa may likuran nya at nagpameywang. "Lakas ng loob mong bawalan ako magpuyat tapos ikaw, mukhang magpupuyat."

He shrugged but continued on typing. "Gusto ni lolo, matuto na ako sa actual na paghandle ng company. Parang OJT na to."

"Ahh." tango ko tapos hinila ko yung isang upuan papunta sa tabi ni Nathan at naupo. "Ano ba yan?"

"Mahirap explain kasi di ka naman business student." he told me. "Maraming words na hindi mo alam."

I shrugged. Di naman talaga ako interesado eh. Naisipan ko lang magtanong. XD "Sabay tayo pasok bukas?"

He smiled. "Syempre."

I gaped at him. Awee. Yung dimples nyaaaa. I wanna touch them. Ajejeje.

I sighed instead. Then, I leaned my head on his shoulder just to smell him. Grabe lungs. Naaadik ako sa amoy ni Nathan. Ewan ko kung pabango ba yun o ano. Basta nakakaadik. XD

"What's wrong?" he asked. "Why don't you go to bed and watch? Boring tong ginagawa ko."

I chuckled. "I'll wait for you."

"Weh. Sigurado ka? Di ka man nakatulog kagabi."

I frowned. "Pano mo nalaman?"

"Halata naman. Di ka sanay na may katabi?"

I nodded. "Sa sahig ka na kasi matulog."

"Asa. Baka biglang pumasok si lola Marian tulad kanina. Mabuko pa tayo." he said. "Mahirap na."

I shrugged. Ok, ok. Sya ng takot kay tita Marian. XD

Pinanood ko nalang sya magtype kahit pilit nya ako pinapabalik sa higaan. Gusto ko syang hintayin eh. Walang basagan ng trip. XD

Nathan turned off his laptop when I yawned. "Tara na nga at napupuyat ka sa akin."

Tapos, tumayo sya at hinila na ako sa kama.

"Ano ba palabas?" tanong nya tapos pumwesto na kami sa kama. May naisip ako kanina eh. Baka sakaling makatulog na ako ng matino. Ituturing kong unan si Nathan! ^_^v

"A walk to remember." sagot ko. Then, I snuggled on his side.

"Ah." sabi nalang nya tapos nanuod na kami habang yakap nya ako. Ba't ganon? Mas kinikilig ako kaysa naiilang! Mas gusto ko pa ngang magsumiksik sa kanya eh. XD :>

Nasa may part na nung kinakasal si Jamie and Landon nung parang may narinig akong suminghot. I glanced up and saw Nathan crying.

Wait...

Umiiyak si Nathan!?

"Napano ka?" I asked bewilderedly.

He shook his head then sniffed again. "Pinakasalan ni Landon si Jamie kahit may sakit si Jamie. Nakakaiyak lang."

I cracked a smile. Iyakin nga pala ang asawa ko! XD

"Shouldn't you be happy because he's willing to marry her despite of her condition?" I asked him while wiping his tears.

He nodded slowly. "Yeah. You're right."

Nginitian ko nalang sya. Then, I laid on his chest, hearing the steady beating of his heart.

It was then when pain started building on my lower abdomen.

"Aw, crap." I cursed then clutched my stomach.

"Something wrong?" asked Nathan.

I was about to shake my head when the stabbing pain on my lower abdomen made me gasp. "Menstrual cramps."

"Huh? Meron ka ngayon? Ba't di mo sinabi?" napaayos sya ng upo at napatitig sa akin.

Kung sigurong di lang masakit puson ko, namula na ako o natawa. It's weird talking to Nathan about my PMS. "Irregular ako."

"Ano yun?" tanong nya ulit. Pero napatayo na sya nung nakita nya siguro expression ko. "Hanap ako gamot."

I grunted then watched him rush outside.

Yinakap ko ng mahigpit yung unan ko. This is why I hate PMS. Sumasakit ng sobra puson ko. Nakakainggit yung boys. Di nila naeexperience yung ganto. Peste.

After so many years, bumalik na si Nathan na may dalang tray na may lamang baso ng tubig at lalagyan ng gamot sa isang kamay tapos sa kabila naman, basin yung dala nya.

Nilapag nya yung tray sa may side table tapos sa sahig yung basin. "Inom kang pain reliever. Makakaupo ka ba?"

I nodded then tried to sit while Nathan assist me. Tapos binigyan nya akong gamot and inabot yung tubig. Pagkainom ko, pinahiga nya ako ng maayos.

"Tita Marian told me that I should give you a hot compress on your lower abdomen." he told me then took the wet towel from the basin and squeezed it. "This should help you ease the pain."

I nodded and closed my eyes when Nathan placed the hot towel in my lower abdomen under my shirt.

"Masyado bang mainit?" he asked. I shook my head.

Di na sya sumagot. Instead, he caressed my faced slowly.

I gave him a questioning look. He smiled. "Mom used to caress my face whenever I can't fall asleep. It relaxes me whenever she do this to me before."

I gave him a smile. Then, pinikit ko ulit yung mga mata ko. And with that, I forced my will to fall asleep.

...

The weight on my left hand made me woke up.

My first thought was: ang lamig ng nakapatong sa may puson ko.

Pagtingin ko, may nakapatong parin na towel. Lumamig na siguro dahil sa aircon.

Then, I glanced on my hand. Nathan was holding it. Tapos yung ulo nya, nakapatong din pala sa unan ko. Habang yung kabilang kamay nya, nakapatong malapit sa pisngi ko. He must've fallen asleep while still caressing me.

The thought warmed my heart. Isn't that sweet? He fell asleep taking care of me.

It's just, Nathan isn't somebody who was known to be the kind who you can depend on. He's more like a troublemaker. But now, *sniff* he looks like I can depend on him! I'm so touched! He's all grown up! *tears of joy*

Lol. Ang OA ko. XD

I shook Nathan's shoulder gently. "Nathan? Nathan."

"Hm?" he grumbled.

"Baka sumakit katawan mo dyan." I told him.

"Huh?" he opened his eyes. Then, he stared at me. "Ok ka na?"

I nodded. He sighed in relief. "Thank God."

I smiled and kissed the tip of his nose. "Thanks."

He smiled back then climbed into our bed. Tapos, hinila nya ako at yinakap.

"Sleep." he said. "I'll be here."

I nodded then closed my eyes. Thinking that I could not ask for more right now.

**

Naglalakad kami ni Destiny papuntang cafeteria nung biglang may humintong lalaki sa harap ko.

"Bakit?" tanong ko nung sobra nya akong tinititigan. Di nga. Napano to? Tinutunaw ako? XD

"You're Gianna Dizon, right?" he asked. I nodded. "Liligawan sana kita."

"Ahh. Kala ko naman an-- Ha?!"

"Hahaha!" tawa naman ni Des. "Sikat ka na pala, Gi!"

I grimaced then gave him a hopeless look. "How can you court me when you don't even know me?"

Sasagot sana yung guy nung biglang may nagpatong ng kamay sa may ulo ko. I glanced up and saw Nathan staring at the guy. Then, he smiled at me.

"Don't just go courting her because she's darn gorgeous." Nathan said. "Because, you know what? She's already mine."

After saying that, he took my hand and gestured Destiny to follow us to the cafeteria.

She's mine.

Aw. Ba't parang ang sweet?! XD

She's mine.

Ba't di ko makuhang magalit?! Ba't parang... Ba't parang kinikilig pa ako?! XD

Yiih. Shet. Kinikilig ako. XD

"Sasabay ka sa amin, Gi?" tanong bigla sa akin ni Des pagpasok namin ng cafeteria.

"Ha?" I glanced at Nathan. Then, at my friends. Lintik o. Kanino ako sasabay?

Nathan smiled at me. "Sumabay ka na sa kanila. Ok lang sa akin."

"Sure ka?" paninigurado ko. Gusto ko sana sumabay sa kanya eh. Kaya lang gusto ko din sumabay sa mga kaibigan ko. Ang gulo ko. XD

Nathan pulled me to my friends. Tapos, pinaupo nya na ako.

"I'll go buy you lunch." he told me and smiled. "Is lasagna ok?"

I nodded then watched him smile and head to the counter.

At tahimik lang mga kaibigan ko habang nangyayari yun.

"O-kay," said Renz. "What was that?"

I took a deep breath and smiled. Kinikilig akong solid. Alam mo yung feeling na parang nangingilabot ka but in a good way? Ganun! Tapos parang kinikiliti yung tiyan ko. Shet kasi. Ba't ang sweet nya? XD

"Huy, Gi!" tawag ni Renz sa akin kaya napatingin ako bigla sa kanya. "Anong ginawa mo dun kay Nathan?"

"Ha? Ahehe." I grinned at him. Nakakapanibago tong feeling na to. XD "I married him."

"HA?!" sabay na sabi ni Vince and Renz. But I ignored them and stared at Nathan.

I bit my lip as I try not to smile. Ang gwapo talaga ng asawa ko! Tapos ang bait pa. Matalino. Maalaga. Maalalahanin. Sweet din! Really. How can he be so perfect? *u*

I turned and noticed that my friends were discussing about what I said. Si Renz, pilit kinukulit si Des kung totoo yung sinabi k-- wait... Ano nga kasi sinabi ko?

Rewind, rewind.

I married him.

Oh, God. Sinabi ko yon?!

"Here's your lasagna." said Nathan. Tapos nilapag nya sa harap ko yung lasagna and Sprite in can.

"Oi, Nathan!" tawag ni Renz. "Ba't di ka sumabay sa amin? Kasal ka pala kay Gi eh."

"Ah." Nathan smiled awkwardly. "Alam nyo pala?"

"Nadulas dila ko." bulong ko. Naman kasi eh. Unconscious kong nasabi eh. >_<

"Ay sus." tawa naman ni Nathan.

Tapos, si Renz, biglang tumayo!

"Tumatawa si Nathan?!" sigaw pa nya!

"Ay hindi man!" sabi ko naman. Halata naman di ba?!

Tumawa ng malakas si Nathan. "Sure lang kayong pwede ako dito?"

Tumango-tango sina Vince. "Oo na. Dali na."

Nathan grinned then took a seat. "Thanks."

Di ko na rin napigilan ang sarili ko na ngumiti. O di ba? Atleast nakikiFC na si Nathan ngayon. Di tulad ng dati. Mukhang emo prince dahil sobrang loner. xD

Nathan faced me then touched the tip of my nose. "You're gorgeous."

Shet. Nahulog ata puso ko. Pakibalik naman o. Haha.

"Shut up." sabi ko nalang tapos umiwas ng tingin sa kanila. NAMUMULA KASI AKO AT ALAM KO YON!

"Namumula ka?" sabi pa ni Nathan.

"De ah." sabi ko naman agad.

"Weh." dagda nya pa. "Kinikilig ka no?"

"Uy, hindi."

"Wushu. Tumingin ka nga sa akin." he said.

I looked up and found his eyes staring at me. "Kahit magdeny ka ng magdeny dyan, ayos lang. Namumula ka kasi eh. Ganda mo."

I bit my lip. Shet. Ba't ba ang sweet nya masyado ngayon?! Kinikilig ako!

Chapter 39: She fell.

*Sam's POV*

Oh, finally. After 945731 years, binigyan na akong POV nitong si author. Lagi nalang akong naiitsipwera! Badtrip lang dre.

Speaking of badtrip, alam mo ba yung pakiramdam na kumakain ka tapos biglang darating yung taong pinakamamahal mo pero imbes na magsaya ka eh nabadtrip ka kasi kasama nya yung dakila mong karibal?! Ba't ba ganun!? Ba't yung iba, pag hinamon mo na pag sinaktan nya mahal nyo, magiging in denial at magugulo yung isip?! Ba't si Nathan, mukhang tumino pa?! Badtrip dre! Solid!

I stabbed the piece of pork in my food when I heard Nathan's laugh. Really. Ba't di nalang sya magpaka-loner ule? Ang saya na namin ni Gi nung kami kami lang eh. -____-"

"Uy, Sam," tawag sa akin ni Renz.

Tinignan ko sya ng masama. Ba't ang FC mo kay Nathan? Traitor! Akala ko kaibigan kita. Akala ko sa side ko ikaw kampi. Tapos ngayon, nakikipagtawanan ka kay Nathan!? Taksil ka Renz! Isa kang taksil!!

As if naman na masasabi ko yun sa harap ni Gi no? -_- Ok, ok. Alam ko nagmumukha akong childish. Pero di ko naman maiiwasan, di ba? Palit kaya tayong pwesto. Yung ang sweet nung taong gusto mo sa karibal mo tapos wala kang magawa. Ni hindi man nga ata alam ni Gianna na karibal ko si Nathan eh.

"Bakit?" sabi ko nalang.

"Wala. Ang tamlay mo, p're." sagot naman ni Renz.

"Ano nga palang gagawin mong talent?" tanong bigla ni Des sa akin.

I rolled my eyes. "I'll sing. Duh."

"Ay, sows. Sinumpong ng kasungitan." paninita naman ni Des sa akin tapos humarap kay Gianna at Nathan. Ba't ba kasi dun pa umupo si Gi. Ba't di sa tabi ko.

"Eh ikaw Gi?" tanong ni Des.

Si Nathan yung sumagot. Psh. "Kakanta daw sya. Sabi ko nga sa kanya, tumawa nalang kasi gusto kong naririnig yung tawa nya eh."

Sige lang Nathan. Landiin mo lang pinakamamahal ko. Papakulam kita.

Gianna giggled that made my stomach twist. Sana ako may-ari ng mga tawa nya. Hindi si Nathan.

"Eh di pinagkamalan akong baliw." she said. Oo nga naman. Like duh, Nathan.

"Anong kakantahin mo?" tanong ni Vince.

"Eh di kanta. Sus." sagot ko naman.

"Oo nga no bes?" ngiti naman ni Gi sa akin. Oh, sht. Ninakaw nya puso ko.

"Wag nga kayong pilosopo." Des rolled her eyes. "Tsaka Renz, ano bang ginagawa mo? Tigilan mo nga pagkakamot sa palad ko. Nakikiliti ako eh."

"Ay. Sorry. Hehe." sabi nalang si Renz.

"Ok, ok. Haha." tawa ulit ni Gianna. *u* "I dunno. Maybe a song by Colbie or Taylor Swift."

"Oh, right. I just remembered. They're asking me to make a special performance." singit naman bigla ni Nathan. Grr.

"Really? Ano namang gagawin mo?" tanong ni Des.

Nathan shrugged then smiled at Gianna. GRRR. The fudge! "Pinag-iisipan ko pa kung papayag ako. Pero, if ever, I'll sing."

Weh? Talaga? Di nga? Tapos?

"What song?" tanong naman ni Gi tapos nginitian si Nathan. Aw, tagos. Ba't parang iba yung ngiti nila sa isa't isa? -____-"

"Regal." answered Nathan.

"Yung sa Spongecola?" tanong ni Vince.

Ay hindi. Yung kay Spongebob. Sus.

"Ba't di ka nagrepresent ng course mo?" tanong naman ni Destiny (Tinatamad na ako magkwento. Ba't kay Nathan lang umiikot pagtatanong nila?! Tss.) kay Nathan. "Renz, ang kulet ah. Hahagis kita sa buwan, makita mo!"

Tumawa lang si Nathan (Pigilan ang pagme-make face sa harap ni Gianna, Sam! Pigilan!). "Ayoko nga. Wala akong hilig sa contest na ganyan."

Ah, so kami, mahilig? Oh, c'mmon!

Ininom ko nalang yung tubig ko tapos tumayo. "Baka ma-late tayo."

"Aga pa." reklamo naman ni Renz habang pilit hinihila yung panyo ni Des.

"Hindi, sige. Papasok na rin kami. Sabay sabay na tayo." Gianna said then got up. Sumunod na rin sa kanya si Nathan (Tss), Vince, Des (na nakikipaghilahan kay Renz) at Renz (na nanghihila ng panyo ni Des. Ay nako).

Di nakaligtas sa paningin ko nung kunin at hawakan ni Nathan yung kamay ni Gi.

Shet. Ok, ok. Aaminin ko na. I'm bloody jealous! Sino bang hindi kung nandito ka sa kalagayan ko?! HA?!?

Tahimik nalang akong naglalakad habang di ko pinapansin ang kaingayan ng mga kaibigan (except ho si Nathan) ko sa likod. Pero nung nakarating na kami sa may Architectural building, lumingon ako kay Gianna para magpaalam.

But instead, I turned to their way just to break my heart.

I bit my lip and closed my eyes then turned my back to them. So, she fell for him before I can even make a move huh? How pathetic am I? Jeez.

You know what broke my heart? When Gianna kissed Nathan's cheek.

**

*Gianna's POV*

I scowled at myself as I stare at the computer screen. Ang lakas ng loob kong sabihin na magkakanta ako para sa talent ko tapos di ko naman alam pano patugtugin yung song na pinili ko. Di ko naman mapag-aaralan. Sa friday na daw yung laban ko. Wednesday na. Kapos ako sa oras. Di naman kasi talaga ako magaling mag gitara. Tsk.

"Gianna, dear." tawag sa akin ni tita Marian. "You're not mad at the computer, aren't you?"

I can't help but smile. Mukha nga naman kasi akong galit sa computer eh. XD "Di naman tita."

Tita Marian chuckled then umupo sya sa may couch. "I thought you're gonna break the computer. Oh. Here's your husband."

Mabilis akong napatingin sa may pintuan nung sinabi yun ni tita Marian. Di kasi kami sabay umuwi ni Nathan dahil pinatawag sya ni lolo.

Lumawak naman pagkakangiti ko nung nakita kong papalapit sya sa akin habang nakangiti din.

"What's up, gorgeous?" he greeted then pecked me on my lips. Aw? Biten! XD

"Hi, tita Marian." sabi naman nya kay tita Marian.

"Hello, dear." Tita Marian smiled. "Buti naman umuwi ka na. Kanina pa namroroblema asawa mo."

"Ha? What's the problem?" he asked me.

I stared at his brown eyes. How come they look so attractive and enchanting? They remind me of lots of chocolate. Like they were holding a sweet secret that's why you're tempted to stare at them just to discover that secret.

"Huy." Nathan's call woke me up from my daydream.

Pumikit-pikit ako na parang natauhan. O-kay? What the heck was that?!

"Ok ka lang? Napano ka? Ano ba problema?" sunod-sunod na tanong ni Nathan.

Tinutok ko ulit yung mata ko sa screen ng computer at naalalang pinoproblema ko pala kung paano ko mapapatugtog ng live yung song na kakantahin ko.

"Ano. Iniisip ko kasi kung pano ko mapapatugtog ng live tong kanta. Gusto ko sana sa gitara kaya lang di ako masyado marunong." I told him while avoiding his eyes. Mahirap na. Baka magdaydream ako ng wala sa oras.

Teka lang...

Why did I daydream?!

Oh, nevermind. x_x

"Ano bang kanta yan?" tanong ni Nathan tapos kinuha yung mouse sa akin at c-in-lick yung play ng lyric video sa YouTube.

"Mary's song." I answered Nathan while the music plays.

Tahimik lang sya habang pinapakinggan yung kanta at tinitignan yung lyrics and chords.

At sa tulong ng kanta, nagkachance akong pagmasdan si Nathan. Panong hindi eh ang lapit nya sa akin? Sobra! Nakatayo kasi sya sa likod ko tapos nakayuko kaya yung ulo nya nasa side ko. Pag lumapit pa ako sa kanyang konti, mahahalikan ko na sya sa pisngi. Natetempt akong halikan sya ulit. Anyenyenye. XD

"Pwede naman tong acoustic. Patugtugin nalang sa gitara. Ako maggigitara." sabi bigla ni Nathan tapos lumingon sa akin bago pa man ako makapagreact.

My eyes went wide. Nahuli akong nakatitig sa kanya. Sheett. Nakakahiya! >///<

But, I just found myself holding my breath while staring at his lips.

Memories of our kisses flowed right on my mind. At that moment, I became aware how fast my

heart beats and how my lips went dry.

"Ops, ops. Lalanggamin tayo rito." said a voice that sounded like from far away. Nanlaki mga mata ko. Oh, sht. "Baka kainin tayo ng mga langgam. Masyado kayong sweet. Ako'y inyong pinapakilig. Tama na yan at baka atakihin pa ako sa kilig."

Aw! Sayang!!

Huweeeeyt...

Sheett! O_O Owmegas! What was that?! Naisip ko ba talaga yun?! Natempt ba talaga akong halikan ulit si Nathan?! At, shet! Bakit parang kinikilig pa ako kesa magalit!? At ba't parang nanghihinayang pa ako kasi hindi ko sya nahalikan?! Bakit? BAKIT? BAKEEEEET?!?!

Napatayo ng maayos si Nathan at umubo-ubo. Sige, Nathan. Ubuhin ka lang dyan. Ako, parang hihikain kasi nalimutan ko ata huminga kanina. Really! Anong nangyayari sa akin?

"Ehem! Ahm. Ano. Print mo yung lyrics and, ano, c-chords. Pag-aaralan ko." sabi ni Nathan habang pilit iniiwas yung tingin sa akin (don't worry, Nathan. Di din kita matitigan. Naiintindihan kita.). Tapos, dali-dali syang tumakbo sa 2nd floor papunta sa kwarto nya.

I frowned as I stare at his invisible tracks. Ba't parang baliktad? Ba't mukha pa syang affected kesa sa akin? Di ba dapat ako yung mas mahihiya kasi babae ako?

Hmm..

Teka lang...

Owemgee! Don't tell me...

Bakla si Nathan at lesbian ako?!?!?

Pakibatukan ho ako. Nagiging weird nanaman utak ko. HAHAHA. XD

"Nagblush asawa mo." tita Marian commented. "Lakas ata ng tama sayo."

Di na ako nagcomment dun sa huling sinabi ni tita Marian pero...

SI NATHAN, NAGBLUSH!?! Ba't ganun?! XD

Oh, noesxz.

Bakla nga sya!!

Ay, de. Joke lang. XD Pero si Nathan? Nagblush?

Waaaaaaa!!!

Ang kyut namaaaan!!!! *u*

**

Kasalukuyan kong pinapanuod si Nathan na pinag-aaralan yung chords ng Mary's song nung bigla syang lumingon sa akin.

"B-bakit?" I stammered. Oh, great. -___-

He smiled at me. "I've decided to sing on your contest."

"Ow talaga? Di ba Regal yung kakantahin mo? Di ba meaning on, very beautiful or impressive?" I grinned at him. "Sample nga! Haha."

Nginitian nya muna ako ulit tapos, nag-iba yung sound and strumming nya sa gitara. (Please play the music on the side. :D)

"You are perfect as you are. Your eyes are the brightest, as you dance in the slowest. That motion can become. To be near you, I resign. And underneath the radiant smiles of perkiness that leave me defenseless as I stare. I might..."

All I could do was watch him as he sing to me.

"...need a little more courage, I'm just waiting for the universe to show me how to steal you from the sky. You can be the most regal and towering in this room, I'll still be the luckiest guy here with you. And you could come through a room with your delicate grace, take these hands and guide this embrace. Oh..."

He looks like an angel singing just for me as I watch him. And I love it.

"You are luminescent always, your heels are the highest as you brighten this night is like a spectacle of light. I might..."

Why?

"...need a little more courage. I'm just waiting for the universe to show me how to steal you from the sky. You can be the most regal and towering in this room. I'll still be the luckiest guy here with you. And you could come through a room with your delicate grace, take these hands and guide this embrace. Oh.."

My heart beats so loud that I think I can hear it.

"There's a fine line between pauses and delays in everything we say. I'll take it everyday, I know I can. And if the night sky should hide the light I see. I'll make my way beyond the dark, I'll be fine."

This is a bit impossible but...

"You can be the most regal and towering in this room. I'll still be the luckiest guy here with you. And you could come through a room with your delicate grace. Take these hands and guide this embrace. You can be the most regal and towering in this room. I'll still be the luckiest guy here with you. And if in case the most abstract of color fades away, I'll still be thankful for you each day. Oh, oh. I'll still be thankful for you each day. Oh, oh. I'll be..." he stared into my eyes.

This is scary but, I think...

"...fine." he ended the song with a smile that reaches his eyes.

Oh, I don't know...

I think I fell for Nathan.

Chapter 40: How can you say that you're in love?

*Gianna's POV*

God. I feel so restless. Eversince nung narealize kong gusto ko si Nathan. But, there's something bothering me.

Am I really in love with Nathan?

Oh. I don't know. And it drives me crazy. Damn it.

"Huy, Gi," a voice behind me called. I turned and saw Destiny. "Kanina ka pa tahimik ah. May problema?"

I sighed. Nandito ako ngayon sa kwarto ni Destiny. After lang naman ho kasi akong kantahan ni Nathan, biglang dumating si Des at kinidnap ako. Nadatnan ko pa nga si Sam pag dating ko dito eh.

"Wala naman. Bakit?" I asked.

Des rolled her eyes. "Ano ba yan. Mukha kang may problema. Si Sam, ayun sa kusina, nagmumukmok. Pinagdidiskitahan yung cake na gawa ni mama. Ano bang meron sa bahay na to at mukhang problematic lahat ng tao?"

I chuckled when I heard her ranting about Sam. "Napano yung lalaking yun?"

"Brokenhearted. Tapos hinihintay ka bumaba. Puntahan mo na nga at baka masipa ko yun palabas ng bahay ng wala sa oras. Inuubos yung mga desserts na ginawa ni mama!"

Tumawa nalang ako at tumayo sa pagkakaupo sa kama nya. "O sige. Bababa muna ako."

Tumango nalang si Des tapos pumunta sa banyo. Maliligo siguro.

I headed to the kitchen. Napano kaya si Sam? Simula ata nung start ng class this year, wala na yun sa sarili. Ang tahimik eh. Di na rin pinagdidiskitahan yung pagkain ko.

"Oi, bes." I greeted Sam when I found him sitting on a high chair in front of the bar while eating a cake. "Napano ka?"

"'la." he said not looking at me.

I frowned. "Napano ka?! Oh, shocks! Brokenhearted ka nga ata!"

Bigla syang napatingin sa akin. "Waaaaaaaaaaaa! Sino nagsabi sayo?! Di ko na nga pinapahalata eh."

Lumapit ako sa kanya at binatukan ko sya. Lalaking to. "Oi lalaki. Naglilihim ka na ngayon? Gusto mong masapak?"

Hinawakan nya yung part kung saan ko sya binatukan tapos pinakatitigan ako. Owemgee. Napalakas ba pagbatok ko?! Tapos biglang nagka-amnesia tong bestfriend ko?! Tapos, nalimutan nya na lahat!? Kaya ang alam nalang nyang gawin eh titigan ako?! Oh no!!!!

Teka...

Sumumpong po ang aking ka-OA-an. Pwede pakibatukan?

"Bes!!" he cried then hugged me. "Ang sakit!"

OWEMGEE!! BROKENHEARTED NGA TONG LALAKING TO!

"Sabi na eh! O, hala! Sino nagpaiyak sayo!?" I asked while patting his back.

"Malamang babae. Ano ba nes. Alangan naman lalaki. Ikaw talaga." he said then let me go.

I just rolled my eyes. Brokenhearted nga be ire? Mukhang hindi! "Pero, di nga bes? Brokenhearted ka? Ba't di mo agad sinasabi sa akin na may pinopormahan ka pala?! Eh di sana natulungan kita!"

"Adik! Di pa man ako nakakaporma, nabasted na ako! Sakit lang no? Hahaha."

Ay, sows. Inaartehan ako ng lolo nyo. "Ay nako. Bitter ka dre? Haha. Teka. Sino ba yung girlalush na nangbasted sayo?! Gusto mo resbakan ko?! Ang gwapo mo palang! Tapos matalino, mabait, matangkad, magaling kumanta, matakaw, batchoy dati, isip bata, makulit at parang baliw pa! Ano pa bang di nya gusto sayo?!"

"Ah. So, tatawa na ako non bes? Ano ba yon, pinupuri mo na ba ako non? Feeling ko kasi iniinsulto mo ako eh. Iiyak na ba ako nyan?" he said with much sarcasm. Aray! Tagos ah!

I made a face. "Tss. Ganyan. Wag mong sabihing brokenhearted ka, gaganyanin mo na ako. Ang bitter mo bes!"

He just smiled bitterly and sighed. Mukhang brokenhearted nga ang aking pinakamamahal na bestfriend. Kawawa naman. :(

"Halika nga dito." he said.

"O bakit?!"

"Pa-hug."

I sighed at his pout. Sa lahat ng brokenhearted, tong lalaking to yung pinaka-isip bata. "Halika. Dali."

"Thanks, bes," he told me. Then, he pulled me and imprisoned me into a tight hug.

"Sht bes. Ang sakit pala pag nabrokehearted ka." he said bitterly.

"Ay bes. Alangan naman masarap. Adik ka?"

"Bes naman eh." reklamo naman nya.

Tumawa nalang ako. "Ano bang kulang sayo at binasted ka nun? Gusto mo gayumahin natin? Haha."

He patted my head then smiled. "Adik ka bes. Haha. I'll be ok. It's ok if she didn't choose me. As long as she's happy, I'm happy."

"You'll give her up?"

"Bes, it's not about giving up. It is knowing about what she feels. What's the point of fighting for her if she doesn't love me?"

I slowly nodded. Grabe lang bestfriend ko. Ang tapang! Mahal nya siguro talaga yung girl. Kasi willing syang masaktan, makita nya lang na masaya yung girl na yun.

"Teka..." I said. "Sino ba yung girl na yun? Tsaka ba't di ka pinatulan? Haba ng hair nya huh."

Sam chuckled. May nakakatawa ba sa sinabi ko? Parang baliw lang eh. xD "Well, she's in love with her husband."

Owemgee, nagkagusto si Sam sa taong kasal na?! Iba rin tong bestfriend ko eh. Unique ang gusto.

"Kasal na gusto mo?! Sino ba yun?!"

He just rolled his eyes. Tapos bumaba na sya sa high chair na kinauupuan nya. "You're a bit dumb, aren't you bes?"

Ha? Anong connect ko sa gusto nya? Gandang sagot ah. -_____-

"Alis na ako bes." he told me. "Paalam lang ako kay Des. Papakumusta ko pa mga kuya nya eh. Bye bes."

"Bye." I just said then waved.

In love bestfriend ko. Pero hopeless case pala. Eh ako kaya? Ay ewan. Magulo lagay namin ni Nathan. Di ko alam kung totoo yung pinapakita nya o acting lang. Mahirap umasa. Baka masaktan ko lang sarili ko.

**

I entered inside the bar where I usually hang out with my friends. Yung sina Ashley yung mayaari. Hay. nung huli ko atang punta dito, inis na inis ako kay Nathan. Ngayon, naguguluhan ako kung inlove ako sa kanya o ano.

"Sure kang dadating si Ashley my loves ko, Gi?" tanong sa akin ni Destiny.

I just took her hand and squeezed it slightly. "Andito na kaya sila."

Nung kasing sinabi kong kailangan kong advice, pero gusto ko kasama sina Denice, gora agad si Des. kaya nga napadpad kami dito eh. Pero kanina pa nangungulit to kung ano hinihingan ko ng advice. Pero, instead na sumagot, nag-smile nalang ako sa kanya.

Nung nakita na namin sina Ashley, bigla akong hinila ni Des tapos tumabi agad kay Ashley. xD

"Emegeeeeed! What are you doing here?! Owemgee! Help me mga bakla!!" tawag agad sa amin ni Ashley nung marealize nyang si Des yung nkapalupot sa kanya. xD

"Yihh. Ano ba. Wag kang malukot. May sasabihin si Gi." sabi naman ni Des habang yakapyakap si Ashley.

Natawa nalang ako at umupo. Tapos humarap nalang ako kina Denice at Aaron kasi baka di ko mapigilan pagtawa ko sa expression ni Ashley. Parang hihimatayin anytime! xD

"Ano problema, Gi?" tanong ni Denice.

"Problema? Meron ba? Dejoke. Haha." I took a deep breath. "Guys, I think I'm in love."

"Hala! Bawal yan! Kasal ka eh!" sita naman ni Aaron.

I just rolled my eyes. Tapos bigla syang siniko at tinignan ng masama ni Denice. xD

"Kay Nathan?" tanong naman ni Denice.

"Ba't alam mo?" I asked back.

"Lucky guess?" she shrugged.

"Owemgee bakla. Eh di umamin ka na nyan sa kanya para happily ever after na!" singit naman ni Ashley.

Nagsumiksik si Destiny kay Ashley. "Tapos, tayo naman gagawa ng story ha, Ashley?"

"Yuck! So kadirdir! Nevah!" nangingilabot naman na sagot ni Ashley habang pilit lumalayo. Haha.

Umiling nalang si Denice tapos kinuha yung kamay ko. "Kaya mo naman bang umamin?"

I sighed but smiled at them. "Ewan. Nakakatakot kasing umamin na mahal mo yung isang tao. Kasi baka di ka naman pala nya mahal at magkaroon pa ng komplikasyon."

Aaron nodded behind Denice. "Oo nga. Minsan lang kasi yung tao na katulad nitong si Destiny na kahit anong gawing reject sa kanya ng taong gusto nya eh wala parin syang pakelam at nagpupursigi pang lalong mapansin nung gusto nya. And I salute you for that, Des."

Des smiled. "Thanks."

"Ah sige. Gora lang kayo sa pagkukwentuhan. Mga hampaslupang ito. Ako ang nagdudusa." drama naman ni Ashley.

Pero di na namin sya pinansin at pinaubaya nalang kay Des. xD

"So, how can you say that you're inlove with Nathan?" tanong bigla ni Des.

Napatigil ako. Pano nga ba? Ewan eh. Bigla nalang pumasok sa isip ko. "I dunno. I'm not sure if this is love. All I know is I love the way he touches me, the way he looks at me, the way he holds my hands, the way he calls my name, the way he teases. And how he touches the tip of my nose and kisses my forehead. And the way he... kisses me? It makes my stomach flutter and make my heart beat faster. And, I dunno. Titigan ko lang sya, contented and masaya na ako. It's like; I just realized that I want to keep him forever."

I sighed and smiled. Bigla kong namiss si Nathan. Hay. Am I really inlove? What do you think? Help naman. Chos.

"You're inlove." sabi ni Ashley bigla.

"Huh?"

"Inlove ka bakla!" sabi nya ulit.

I frowned. "Sure ka? Inlove ba talaga ako?"

"Duh, bakla! Enebe Destiny. Lumayo ka muna sandali. Di ako makahinga." reklamo muna nya kay Destiny bago humarap ulit sa akin. "The way you describe about how you feel whenever he do those things to you? Ay bakla. Kulang nalang lumutang ka na dyan!"

I hid my face behind my hands. "Eh? Talaga?"

"TALAGA!" sabay-sabay naman nilang sabi.

Then, we ended up laughing together. xD

Grabe. Now that I "realized' that I'm "inlove" with Nathan, my heart feels lighter. Parang walang mangyayaring mali. Parang lahat, ten times brighter and happier. Parang kinikilig pa nga ako eh. Ganyan ba talaga pag inlove? Hay. :>

"Pero, Gi, be careful ha? Nathan was a casanova. You never know what his former flings might do to you." paalala naman ni Des. "Pero no matter what you do, we'll support you."

I took her hand and squeezed it. "Thank you, Des. Thanks guys."

**

*Nathan's POV*

I tossed out of my bed then phased back and forth. Darn. Ba't di ako makatulog? =_____=

I sighed. Then, stared at my bed. Ba't ganyan? Parang ang laki ng kama ko ngayong hindi ko tabi si Gianna? Aysht! Ang gulo lang ha. Naiinis na ako. dapat pala di ko pinayagan si Gianna na kina Destiny matulog. Tsk.

Inis akong napakamot ng ulo tapos lumabas ng kwarto. Kakain nalang nga ako ng kung anong makain sa kusina. Baka sakaling mawala sa isip ko si Gianna.

Pagdating ko sa kusina, nilabas ko agad yung unang pagkain na nakita ko sa ref; chocolate cake.

Lalantakin ko na sana yung cake nung napatigil ako. Fave nga pala to ni Gianna. Sayang di ko sya makakasabay kumain ngayon. Ano kaya ginagawa nya? Kumain na kaya sya? O kaya baka natutulog na sya. Hay. I miss her sleeping face. Actually, sya yung tinutukoy ko kanina sa Regal. She's really beautiful. Like a queen that lives in my heart.

Wait...

What did I just say? Oh, damn. Ba't puro si Gianna laman ng utak ko?

"Is there a problem?"

Napalingon ako bigla sa likod ko nung may nagsalita. Nakahinga naman ako ng maluwag nung si tita Marian lang pala yung nagsalita.

I smiled at her. "Wala naman."

"Miss mo na asawa mo?" she asked.

I didn't answer. Instead, I just stared at the cake. Because the answer is: Yes. Yes, I already miss her and I don't know why.

Tita Marian patted my head then smiled at me. "If you want to say something, I'll be here to listen."

Di na sana ako sasagot pero nakita ko nalang sarili ko na nagtatanong. "I wonder if I'm in love with Gianna."

Napapikit ako nung narealize ko kung ano yung tinanong ko. Una, baka mahalata kami ni Gianna. At pangalawa, ba't ngayon ko lang naisip yung possibility na gusto ko si Gianna? Yeah. I'm a bit dumb. =_____=

Pero nung nagulat ako nung biglang tumawa si tita Marian. "Oh, God. Haha. You're so slow! Ang tagal naman bago mo marealize yun! So, tell me, how can you say that you're inlove with Gianna?"

I shrugged. "Ewan. Bigla ko nalang nasabi yun. And ang gusto ko lang, nakikita sya na masaya."

Tita Marian laughed merrily. "Haha. Sinasabi ko na nga ba at ganito ang kalalabasan ng set up ni kuya eh!"

I frowned. "Alam mo? Oh, come on."

"Oo naman."

"Pano?"

"I have my ways." she winked.

"Ay sus."

"So, Nathan. Ang kailangan mo nyan gawin ay, make Gianna fall for you."

I gave her a what-are-you-talking-about look. "Para namang mangyayari yun, tita."

"Syempre mangyayari! Tutulong ako eh. Hehe." she grinned mischieviously.

Haha. May pagkamischievious ata talaga ang mga Miguels' ah? xD

"Bahala ka tita." napailing nalang ako. " Ba't nga pala hindi ka nagwala nung nalaman mo na fixed marriage kami ni Gianna?"

She patted my head the smiled. "Life's like a story while we are the writers. When something goes wrong or becomes disappointing on it, you must do your very best to make them go alright. So, instead na magsabi-sabi ako ba't ganon ginawa nya, ba't di ko nalang kayo tulungan na magkagustuhan at maging totoong lovestory ang story nyo di ba?"

I pondered at her words. "Pano kung di pala lovestory?"

"But it's worth a try, right?" she headed for the kitchen door. "And Nathan, I think you can say that you're in love with someone when you just love watching her smile, when you can just sit beside her doing nothing but feeling happy and contented and when she can make you feel forever is too short to be with her."

I watched the air as those words ring into my ears.

I think you can say that you're in love with someone when you just love watching her smile, when you can just sit beside her doing nothing but feeling happy and contented and when she can make you feel forever is too short to be with her.

Loving Gianna's smile? Check.

We're quiet but I'm contented? Check.

Wishing that she can stay beside me always? Check.

Oh, God. If this is love, please make it sweet and true.

Chapter 41: Which love is greater?

*Gianna's POV*

"Number 5, stand by. Next ka na." tawag sa akin nung pageant organizeer. I just nodded.

Ba't kanina, di ako kinakabahan masyado? Ngayon, parang masusuka ako sa kaba. Tss.

"Are you ok, Sweet Wife?" Nathan asked then held my hand.

I smiled at him. Buti nalang andito asawa ko. May nakakapagpakalma sa nerbiyos ko at napapalitan ng kilig. xD

Nanahimik nalang kami pagkatapos. Pero hindi nya binitawan yung hawak nya sa kamay ko. Kahit nung tinawag na ako para sa talent ko, sabay at hawak kamay kaming lumabas sa stage.

At first, I was blinded by the spotlight. Pero nasanay rin yung mga mata ko. Not far from the stage, I saw Denice, Aaron, Ashley and Destiny cheering for me, urging me to give all the best that I can. I just smiled at them.

Lalo naman nagsilakas ang sigawan nung mga nanunuod, lalo na yung mga babae x_x, nung kinuha ni Nathan yung gitara at pumwesto sa upuan.

When Nathan's eyes and mine met, I gave her the sweetest smile I could make at the moment. This song is for him. Well, I guess it's for us. Parang ang lapit kasi nung kwento namin sa

kantang to eh. Lalo na dun sa silang nag-aaway nung bata sila. Kaming-kami sa banda dun eh. Haha.

I took a deep breath. Tapos pumwesto na rin ako sa tabing upuan ni Nathan kung saan may nakatapat na mic.

I smiled at the judges. "I'm going to sing 'Mary's song' by Taylor Swift because, I believe that true love do exist and it can last forever."

*A/n: please do play the song on the side. XD*

I nodded at Nathan and he started strumming the strings for the song's intro. "She said, I was seven and you were nine, I looked at you like the stars that shined in the sky, the pretty lights. And our daddies used to joke about the two of us, growing up and falling in love and our mamas smiled. And rolled their eyes and said, 'oh my my my'. Take me back to the house in the backyard tree, said you'd beat me up, you were bigger than me, you never did. You never did. Take me back when our world was one block wide, I dared you to kiss me and ran when you tried. Just two kids, you and I... O my my my my."

I smirked at the memory where Nathan and I always tease each other. Parang kailan lang yon. Pati nung pilit kaming pinapartner sa isa't isa nila mama.

"Well, I was sixteen when suddenly I wasn't that little girl you used to see. But your eyes still shined like pretty lights. And our daddies used to joke about the two of us, they never believed we'd really fall in love and our mamas smiled. And rolled their eyes and said, 'oh my my my'... Take me back to the creek beds we turned up, two AM riding in your truck and all I need is you next to me. Take me back to the time we had our very first fight. The slamming of doors instead of kissing goodnight. You stayed outside till the morning light. Oh my my my my."

I glanced at Nathan. I wonder if he'll fall for me? Will he look at me with those eyes full of care and amazement after tita Marian leaves?

"A few years had gone and come around. We were sitting at our favorite spot in town and you looked at me, got down on one knee. Take me back to the time when we walked down aisle. Our whole town came and our mamas cried. You said I do and I did too. Take me home where we met so many years before, we'll rock babies on that very front porch. After all this time, you and I."

I can't help but smile. Naalala ko kasi nung biglang nagpropose si Nathan sa akin habang umuulan sa gitna ng daan. And when were at the wedding? Kahit siguro wala pa akong feelings kay Nathan non, sobrang na-touch ako sa effort na ginawa nya non. I wonder what will happen if ever I got pregnant. :3

"I'll be eighty-seven; eighty-nine. I'll still look at you like the stars that shine in the sky, oh my my my my..."

I wish.. No. I hope I can be with Nathan until the very last breath of my life.

**

I was checking out my hair when someone suddenly pulled me in a corner.

I rolled my eyes but smiled when I smelled the familiar scent of Nathan. "What's up?"

He held my hips and pulled me closer to him then rested his forehead unto mine. "Great job. You already won my heart."

I raised my hands and held his face. I wish time would stop. I love it when he's so sweet to me. "You too. You were great when you were singing Regal. Anyway, wait for me, ok?"

"'course. You're my wife."

"Yeah, you're one and only wife."

"Yep. And for that, you should kiss me,"

I giggled. "Oh, shut up. If I find out you're womanizing, I'm gonna break your neck."

He chuckled. "Oh, don't worry, love. No one will be more gorgeous than you."

"What if I got pregnant and it's girl. Won't she be gorgeous?"

He touched the tip of my nose affectionately, making my heart race. "That depends if she's made by us."

I blushed. I was only joking! >//////<

"You're so pretty when you're blushing."

"Stop the sweet talk." or I might fall for you even more.

Magsasalita pa sana sya pero biglang may tumawag sa akin. "Number 5, stand by!"

I sighed and smiled at Nathan. Ganda ng moment namin eh. Epal na event organizer. =_____=

**

*Sam's POV*

I can't help but sigh as I walk. Papunta ako ngayon sa office ni sir-slash-lolo Martin. Ba't ba sa lahat ng makikipagsosyo ng negosyo ang parents ko, sa Miguel corporation pa? Baka dumating naman yung araw na kay Nathan na ako makikipag-usap. Then, I must face the fact that Gianna chose him everytime I see Nathan's face.

Tss.

Ano ba yan. Nanalo nga ako kahapon at naging Archangel. Di ko parin makuhang maging masaya. Ay oo nga pala. We won. I mean, Gianna and I won. Hayst.

"...give you the whole company after you graduate." I heard sir Martin say when I reached the door of his office.

"Why so sudden? You're not the kind that will give the company so easily to me." napatigil ako nung narinig ko yung pamilyar na boses na yun. Si Nathan yun ah.

"You're right. I want Gianna pregnant."

I-- What the fck?

"Are you kidding me? How is that even possible?"

I can't help but listen to them. Especially now that sir Martin mentioned Gianna.

"It's possible. You love her, don't you? Say that to her and make some move and voila. I can be a great grandfather, more or less, by October."

There was a moment of silence. Don't tell me, Nathan's considering the offer? That's sick!

"I can't get her pregnant." I heard Nathan say.

Huh?

"Why?"

"I can't get her pregnant if she doesn't love me. It'll ruin her life."

So that idiot really loves Gianna?

"Oh, Nathan. I say, confess to her tonight. You'll thank me. And, I assure you. I'll give you the whole company after you both graduate."

Silence. I wonder what he is thinking. "Huh. You're right, 'lo."

Oh, fck. Sinasabi ko na eh. Mas pipiliin ni Nathan tong company kesa sa kay Gianna. I mean, ok, ok. They're inlove with each other but, is it right to confess just because of money? Freaking NO!

Disappointed on what I heard, I turned around and ran.

Should I tell Gianna about what I heard? Oh. I don't know. It might hurt her. And it's not my role to hurt her. It'll be better if I should be the one that makes her happy. Maybe I shouldn't give up. Maybe I should fight for her. Maybe my love is greater the Nathan's love.

Chapter 42: Forever is a long time.

From: Ashley the Goddess

Bakla! Wheresung ka ba? Ditey kami sa bar. Punta ka dali! Kundi, lalafangin ko si fafa Nathan!

Napailing nalang ako habang natatawa sa text ni Ashley. Baklang to. May balak pa atang agawin ang aking pinakamamahal na asawa? xD Ay hindi pwede no. I-mamassacre ko sino man magtangkang mang-agaw sa pinakamamahal ko.

Dali-dali akong naligo at nagbihis para mapuntahan na sina Ashley. Gusto ko ng i-share sa kanila yung nararamdaman ko. Kasi, solid akong kinikilig! xD Haha. Ewan eh. Parang lalo pang

tumitindi yung tama ko kay Nathan? Yung bang bawat makita ko sya, lalong tumitindi yung kilig? Hay nako. Gayumahin ko na kaya yun para akin nalang sya? Mehe. XD

Pagdating ko sa bar nila Ashley, agad akong pumasok. Magtetext sana ako kay Nathan kasi tinawag sya kanina ni lolo. Pero nabigla ako nung nakita ko syang nakatayo sa stage sa harap ko.

"After a long wait, finally. The lady on my mind decided to show up." he smiled at me. Then, he nodded to the band behind him. "So, ladies and gentlemen. I would like to sing this song to the most important woman in my life. Sweet wife, this is only for you."

I felt my stomach clench in happiness. Shet. Ano to?! XD Teka! Most important woman in his life daw! Shet, shet, shet! Kinikilig ako! >//u//<

"Lumayo ka na sa akin. Wag mo kong kausapin. Parang awa mo na, wag kang magpapaakit sa akin. Ayoko lang masaktan ka, malakas ako mambola. Hindi ako santo. Pero para sa'yo, ako'y magbabago. Kahit mahirap, kakayanin ko. Dahil para sa'yo, handa kong magpakatino. Laging isipin, lahat ay gagawin basta para sa'yo." he stared at me while singing.

Shet! jshjdkjsdhfjkhjajksdfhjksdhfjksjk! Ninakaw nya puso ko! Nanakawin ko rin puso nya! Kinikilig ako! Fuq.

"Hindi ikaw yung tipong niloloko. At hindi naman ako yung tipong nagseseryoso. At kahit sulit sana sa'yo ang kasalanan, lolokohin lang kita kaya't kung pwede, wag nalang dahil ayoko ngang masaktan ka. Wag kang maniniwala, hindi ako santo. Pero para sa'yo, ako'y magbabago. Kahit mahirap, kakayanin ko. Dahil para sa'yo, handa kong magpakatino. Laging isipin, lahat ay gagawin basta para sa'yo."

Yih! Ba't ba ganyan sya? Lalo akong nahuhulog eh! Mahirap na. Baka hindi naman nya ako saluhin. Pero, shemay. He's taking my breath away! Oh, gawd. I so love him! >u<

"Bakit nakikinig ka pa? Matatapos na ang kanta. Pinapatakas na kita mula nung unang stanza. Hindi ka ba natatakot? Baka ikaw ay masangkot sa mga kasalanan ko. Pero para sa'yo, ako'y magbabago. Kahit mahirap, kakayanin ko. Dahil para sa'yo, handa kong magpakatino. Laging isipin, lahat ay gagawin basta para sa'yo, ako'y magbabago. Kahit mahirap, kakayanin ko. Dahil para sa'yo, handa kong magpakatino. Laging isipin, lahat ay gagawin basta para sa'yo."

Pinapanuod ko lang sya habang papalapit sa akin habang naghihiyawan at palakpakan ang mga tao. Is that song really meant for me?

Nathan took my hand and entwined it into his own. "Mrs. Miguel, this is a bit crazy but, I've fallen for you. Will you stay with me forever?"

God. I'm so happy. I'm so overwhelmed! Is this really happening? Is he really saying the truth? Oh, God. I wanna cry because of pure happiness. Ba't ganyan sya? I can never predict him! Who would have thought he'd fall for me?

I pulled him into a hug and before I know it, I was crying because of happiness.

"Oh, no! Ba't ka umiiyak!?" gulat nyang sabi habang yakap-yakap ako.

I sniffed. "Nakakainis ka! You're mean, an idiot, annoying, selfish, dumb and I love you."

"I-- What?"

"I love you."

Binitiwan nya ako at pinakatitigan. "Oh, God. I love... You love me? Oh, God. Oh, my God. You love me. You do, right? I heard her right, right? She loves me, right? She definitely said that, right?"

I laughed while crying at Nathan's expression. Who wouldn't? He's still thinking and asking the guests if he heard me right. Pinagtatawanan na rin nga sya ng iba eh. xD

But before he know it, I pulled him and kissed him on the lips. It's a bold action but, I've been wanting to kiss him for ages!

As our lips touch, I can feel his smile. Grabe ha. Di nya mapigilan ang pagsmile? XD

But, oh, God. I love him. I definitely love him. Siguro simula pa nung bata kami. I unconsciously loved him.

"I definitely love you, Gi." he said after ending the kiss.

I smirked. "I know. Blame it to my charm."

Tumawa nalang sya ng malakas at hinalikan ulit ako. >u<

**

"Oh, really? He did that? How sweet!" I heard tita Marian say as I enter the house. "It was all thanks to your help. Haha. Oh, dear. The love birds are here. I'll call you later, ok?"

Agad namang binaba ni tita Marian yung phone nya tapos sinalubong kami. I kissed her on the cheek as a greeting.

"Hello, tita." I said.

"Hi, dear." she smiled then Nathan kissed her on the cheek, too.

"Who was that on the phone?" Nathan asked.

"Oh. It was nothing." sabi ni tita Marian.

Nathan just shrugged. "Ok. Akyat na kami sa kwarto namin."

Tita Marian waved her hand dismissively as she head back to the couch.

I smiled as Nathan pulls me. W-wait. Kwarto namin? Owemgee! Sa kwarto nga namin! >///< HAHAHA.

I was a bit uneasy when we reached our room. But when I saw Nathan's gentle smile at me, it vanished. Why would I be uneasy? We love each other.

"Maliligo na ako." I told him.

He smirked. Oh, shet. He looks sexy with that smirk! >//u//< "Sabay tayo?"

Natawa nalang ako. "Oh, shut up."

Tumawa nalang din sya tapos hinalikan ako sa noo. Tapos, hinayaan nya na akong kumuha ng damit at maligo.

While taking a bit, I can't help but hum. Eh kasi naman, this is for real. We love each other. No contract, no joke. It's love that exists between us. And we're married so everything will be alright.

Paglabas ko ng banyo, di ko parin mapigilan ang sarili ko sa pag ngiti. Eh kasi naman eh! Kinikilig ako! Biruin mo, someone as perfect as Nathan will fall in love with me? San ka pa? XD

"Why are you smiling?" tanong no Nathan nung nakita ako.

I smiled more. "Because I love you."

I chuckled when Nathan's face went red. O di ba. Ang galing ko bumanat. Hahahaha!

"Nakaligo ka na pala." I said.

"Ah. Ano. Sa baba na ako naligo." sabi nya habang umiiwas ng tingin. Namumula pa kasi sya eh! xDD

I nodded then took my place beside him on the bed. Kinilig naman ako nung niyakap nya ako bigla.

"How long have you loved me?" he asked then ho took my hand ang played with it.

I pondered at the thought. Since kelan nga ba? "Hmm. I don't know. I may be loving you since we were kids. Eh ikaw?"

"The first time that I kissed you when we were six."

I looked up at him. "T-that long?"

He nodded. "Although, I just realized it now."

I smiled and hugged him. Maybe we're meant to be together. "I love you."

"I love you more."

Upon hearing that, I laid on his arms feeling contented. Who would have thought that this man, whom who always tease me, irritates me and annoy me will be the one who I can't live without?

"Sweet wife." tawag nya bigla.

"Hm?"

"I want a baby." he said.

Hm.. I-- What? "BABY?"

"Yeah."

"Ampon ka."

"No. Of course I want it to be from my own flesh and blood."

"OA much ka mahal."

"Sige na."

"Ays."

"Please?"

I shifted my gaze from his pleading eyes. Yihh. How can I not say no? Syempre gusto ko din! Kaya lang, ready na ba kami? "I dunno. Ready na ba tayo sa ganong responsibility?"

"We're rich, we can feed her even if we don't work and I know you can take good care of her. Ikaw pa."

I giggled. Her? "Gusto mo, babae?"

He nodded then tightened his hug. "Yeah."

"Why? You're so weird."

"Because I want her to teach her little brother how to treat a girl right."

Oh, see? How can I not love him? :"> "Ah. So gusto mo may kasunod na boy? Haha. Bakit naman?"

Nathan kissed my forehead before answering. "So he would protect his sister from the boys out there that would make her cry."

akjdfhklfhsjkhfhskfhjkhlsdhjfsdhclk. I'm falling even more in love with him!

"Ano na? Pwede ng baby? Hehe." tanong nya bigla.

I hid my face on his chest. Baka mahalata nyang namumula ako eh. "Ewan. First time ko."

"Ako din naman."

"Weh. Nakita kaya kitang pumasok sa pulang building kasama yung octopusit mo."

"Ah, yon? Sus. Kabulastugan yun eh. Aayain ko sila sa hotel tas papainumin ng pampatulog. Pag nakatulog na sila, aalisin ko yung damit nila tapos itatapon ko at iiwan sila."

Napatingin ako bigla sa kanya. "Ha?!"

"Bakit?"

"Ba't ginagawa mo yun?"

He chuckled. "Wala lang. Ayoko sa kanila. I don't like girls that are easy to get."

Owemgee. I'm wrong about him!

I kissed him on the lips. "I so love you."

"I know." he took the opportunity and kissed me back.

At first, it was just a light kiss. But, it became deeper, more passionate. Before I know it, we were kissing each other hungrily.

"Say no and I'll stop." he said between kisses.

Should I say no? But... I don't want to. I love him and I want him.

I deepened the kiss as a response. "I love you."

Then, I just found myself naked. I tried to hide myself but Nathan held my hands.

"No, love." he said gently. "You're gorgeous."

Natawa nalang ako at napailing. "Shut up."

He smirked. "I hope its a twin." he said before kissing me again.

And as we go deeper into the night, I let him claim me.

**

I opened my eyes and found myself in Nathan's arms.

And, oh, God. Ang sakit ng katawan ko. *facepalm*

Nilibot ko yung tingin ko. It's still dark. So, madaling araw palang. Thank God makakatulog pa ako. Pero nung nagawi sa natutulog na mukha ni Nathan yung tingin ko, I can't help but trace his eyebrows. Then, his nose. Followed by his lips.

I smiled. It's like a fairytale. This perfect human being is mine. Only mine. And of course, I'm only his.

When he moaned on his sleep, I can't help but think about earlier. The moans, groans, sweet kisses and passionate embrace.

And I felt my face go hot at the thought. alfhahahsdjkhfjkhlkjskdfaskfjasdkfgk.

"I love you." I told him.

I was surprised when he answered. "I love you more."

He opened his eyes and grinned. I grinned back. "Gising ka pala."

"Ba't gising ka na?" tanong naman nya.

I caressed his face. "Stay with me forever."

"Forever is a long time." he said.

I stopped caressing his face when I realized what he said. "Oh. Sorry."

I was a bit surprised when he kissed me. "But, I wouldn't mind spending it by your side."

I-- Oh, God. "R-really?"

"Yes."

"I love you forever."

"I love you forever and back." he smiled then kissed me again. "Let's make it a triplets."

I laughed. "Ang hilig mo, irog."

And, with that, siguradong sasakit katawan ko mamaya. Hehe.

Chapter 42.5: Forever is a long time (Sam's POV)

From: Destiny Andito kami sa bar nila Ashley my loves. Yung tinuro ko dati. Haharanahin daw ni Nathan si Gi. So sweet, no? *u*

Napasimangot ako sa nabasa kong reply ni Des. Haharanahin? Eh dahil lang naman at sa pera yun eh! What dafuq. He's so... so... fuq!

Bago ko pa mapagdesisyunan kung anong sasabihin ko kay Gianna, dali-dali akong nagbihis at umalis ng bahay. Pupuntahan ko nalang sila. I must prevent Gianna from falling even more in love with Nathan. Pero, ayokong sabihin lahat sa kanya. Baka masaktan sya at ako pa maging dahilan. I just have to take Gianna away from Nathan.

Pagdating ko sa parking lot ng bar, agad kong nadatnan sina Aaron, Denice, Destiny at Ashley na magkakasama at nakukwentuhan.

"Asan na si Gi?" tanong ko sa kanila pagbaba ko ng kotse.

"Asa loob." sagot ni Destiny habang pilit yinayakap si Ashley.

"Ha?! Ampupu. Pigilan nyo nga si Nathan! Masasaktan lang nya si Gianna eh!"

"Ba't alam mo pa sa kanya?" Aaron asked.

"Basta! Pipigilan ko si Nathan!"

Tinulak naman ni Ashley si Destiny tapos lumapit sa akin. "Oh, no, no, no. Hindi pwede. My ghaad. Pinaghirapan namin tapos sisirain mo? Oh, noes!"

"Ha? Ano bang pinagsasabi mo? Ang sinasabi ko lang, pipigilan ko si Nathan!"

"Tsk, tsk, tsk. Calm down, fafa Sam." Ashley said. "Aaron, ditey ka nga. Baka ano pang gawin ni fafa Sam at masira ang pinaghirapan."

Di ko nalang sana sila papansinin at papasok na sa bar nung bigla akong hinarang ni Aaron. "Ano ba?!"

"Calm down."

"HOW CAN I CALM DOWN WHEN THE WOMAN I LOVE IS HEADED TO THE ROAD OF BEING BROKEN HEARTED!"

"I said calm down!" he yelled at me.

Fuq! He's telling me to calm down?! How can I even do that?! "Mind your own business! You're different! The one you love loves you back! How about me?! I can only act as her bestfriend!"

"It's not our fault if you're a coward." Denice told me.

I snorted. "Shut up, woman! You don't even know what situation I am in!"

"Dude, no one yells at my girlfriend that way." he said then before I realized it, he already punched me on my face.

"Aaron!" I heard someone yell. But I was so angry that I punched him back.

"Sam! Will you please stop being so stubborn!" I heard a familiar voice yell at me.

Napatigil ako kaya napuruhan nanaman ako ni Aaron sa mukha. But, this time, I didn't punched back. Instead, I turned around and faced Destiny who was glaring at me.

"D-Des." I muttered.

She snorted then crossed her arms acrossed her chest, the way she always do when angry. "Sam, I know that you love Gianna but, please. Let her go. She loves Nathan and Nathan loves her back. There's nothing you can do but to support them."

"S-sorry. I l-lost my reasons." nasabi ko nalang tapos, nanghihina akong napaupo sa daan.

Ashley sighed. "Sam, we understand you, but you, of all people, should be the one who will be more willing to see Gianna's smiles."

Huh. How can I let her smile when she's on the way to being broken hearted? "Say whatever you want. I have my own reasons for doing this."

"At ano naman yon?" Ashley asked.

"It's none of your business." I just said. How could I tell? What if they mention it to Gianna? She'll be broken hearted, for sure! That's why I chose just to take her away from Nathan.

Ashley sighed. "It's not your business if Gianna chosed Nathan."

Napahilamos ako ng mukha gamit ang kamay. "I know, I know! And it damn hurts!"

"I don't know, Sam, but, I think you should meet and talk to Gianna when you have calmed down." Des said while shaking her head.

"But--"

"Wag ka ng makulit. I won't even allow you to enter those doors." Ashley interrupted.

"Dafuq." I snorted then turned around and entered my car.

I turned the car's engine irritatedly then drove away.

Sht! I'm so... I'm so freaking annoyed! Don't they even care if Nathan will break Gianna's heart?! Some friends, huh!

**

I opened a new can of beer after drinking the other one straight. I'm just gonna drown myself in pain, sorrow and beer.

I'm currently here at some place where I can be alone. Naturally, it's a place where no one knows who I am. Actually, medyo madilim pa sa lugar kung saan naka-park yung kotse ko.

God. It hurts so much. The fact that Gianna choose Nathan really broke my heart. Maybe I really am a coward. But, how can I not be? If I fail making Gianna love me, there'll be too much to lose.

"What the heck are you doing! Stay away!" I heard someone yell.

I turned around and saw a few guys and a person who was wet with... water?

"Sorry, lady. You offended miss Raquel." sabi naman nung isang lalaki.

"Kasalanan ko ba kung hindi nya tinitignan dinadaanan nya?!" sigaw naman ulit nung babae.

"Why, you!" the guy said then pulled the girl's hand rashedly.

But the girl pulled her arm back and punched the guy. Oh, wow. How entertaining.

"Did you just p-punched me?" said the guy she punched.

"Ay hindi! Tinadyakan kita!"

"You, bitch--"

"Yo." I called when he was about to slap the girl. "If I were you, I would stay away from her."

"Who the hell are you?" the man asked.

Due to the alcohol that entered my body, I was a bit stupid. "Oh, me? A broken hearted man. Pero sa tingin ko, kailangan nyo ng tumakbo bago pa kayo mabugbog ng babaeng yan."

"I-- what?" they turned around and faced the girl who was now carrying a long metal pipe.

"Get away from me, bastards!" yelled the girl before hitting the guy.

Bago pa man tamaan yung lalaki, lumayo na sila at tumakbo. I stared at the girl and chuckled. I admire her courage and strength. She's like Gianna when it comes to annoying bastards.

Gianna...

The grin was wiped off of my face when I remembered her. I drank the beer in a moment.

"KUYAAAAA!"

"Huh?" I glanced up and saw the girl in front of me. She's pretty but Gianna is gorgeous. Hay.

"Salamat ha! Kung di na-distract sayo yung tatlong mokong na yun, ewan ano na nangyari."

"Ah. Oo. Wala yon. Ingat." I said nonchalantly.

"Thanks ulit ha! I wish you happiness forever!" she smiled then walked away while waving at me.

I waved back. Happiness? Forever? Huh. Forever is too long without Gianna. How can I even be happy with that fact?

Chapter 43: OA talaga ang tao pag in love.

"Sweet wife, wag kang masyadong magpagod. Sa midterms pa naman yan eh." Nathan reminded me. "Alam mo naman sabi ng doktor."

I just rolled my eyes and smiled at him. "Nathan, vertigo ang meron ako. Hindi ako buntis."

He just stuck his tongue out then took and squeezed my hand. I squeezed it back then returned to my draft project. Dapat kasing ma-pass to before midterms eh.

A few moments later, manang Beth entered the library.

"Ma'am Gi, may naghahanap po sa inyo." she said. "Sam daw po."

"Oh? Pakisabi nalang po bababa na ako."

Tumango si manang Beth tapos lumabas na. I heard Nathan sigh.

"Bakit?" I asked.

He shook his head. "Wala."

"Ay sus. Halika nga dito," I reached for his hand. "Puntahan na natin ang brokenhearted kong bestfriend."

He mumbled something I didn't hear.

"Ha?"

"Wala." he just said then pulled me out of the library.

We walked across the hallway holding each others arms. Pagdating namin sa may sala, I found Sam standing and staring at my wedding picture with Nathan.

"Best!" I called. "Napadalaw ka?"

He turned and looked at me rather sadly. "Can we talk?"

"Ok."

"Alone?" he added while eyeing Nathan.

I frowned but turned to my husband. "Is it ok?"

He glanced at Sam. "You sure?"

I nodded. He kissed me on my forehead. "I'll be in the kitchen, eating." he said. Tapos pumunta na sya sa may kusina.

I smiled at Sam then came nearer. "Something wrong, best?"

Sam sighed. "Gi, tell me the truth, ok?" he said. "Do you love Nathan?"

I frowned. What's wrong with this guy? "Of course. Bakit?"

"Will you love him even if he hurts your feelings?"

Huh? What is he talking about? Of course I will. "I will, Sam. When loving someone, there will always a point where you'll hurt each other's feelings. But, isn't that why love is real? It wouldn't hurt if it isn't real."

Tinitigan lang ako ng matagal ni Sam. Tapos, bigla syang napaupo at napasandal sa pader. Dali-dali ko naman syang pinuntahan. "Bakit, best? What's wrong?"

He stared at me with those dark, sad eyes. I watched him worriedly. Napano ba sya? "Best," he called. "Pa-hug. One time. Please."

I smiled and pulled him in a hug. Whatever problem he have, I should just comfort and help him, shouldn't I? After all, he's my bestfriend.

"I'll go back to New York to study business. I may never come back, best. I won't even finish my tourism course here. I'll be gone by next month or so." he suddenly announced, making surprised.

"Bakit naman, best?"

Binitawan nya ako tapos tumayo na at tinulungan akong tumayo rin. "I had a deal with mom." he told me. "She wouldn't set me up into a fixed marriage if I inherit our family's business.

I nodded thoughtfully. It'll be weird imagining Sam married with someone, huh.

"Bye, best. See you at school." paalam nya sa akin bigla.

"Ha? Ah. O sige. Bye. Ingat, best." I called after him.

I just watched Sam's back. Tapos, nung nakalabas na sya, bumuntong hiniga nalang ako at pinuntahan na si Nathan sa may kusina. I found him eating a sandwich by the bar.

"Hey, Gorgeous Wife." he greeted.

I smiled and came over at him. "Hey, Sweet Husband."

"What does he want?"

"Oh. Babalik daw syang New York next month. Baka for good."

"Oh, really?" Nathan asked thoughfully. I nodded then wiped some mayo that fell on his chin. "Thanks, love. Well, good for him."

I just shrugged then quietly watched Nathan eat while shaking my head when he offers some. Nung naubos nya na yung sandwhich, I pulled him to the living room.

"Ah." sabi nya bigla pagka-upo namin sa sofa. "Lolo called me earlier. He'll be taking out of town for a business meeting. I'll be gone for 10 days or so."

I pouted. "That long?"

He shrugged then put his arms around my shoulders. "Sadly, yes."

"Ano ba yan."

"I already miss you."

"Hmp. What is he thinking?"

"I dunno." Nathan said. "And, oh right, he told me if you got pre--"

Tita Marian suddenly entered the house. "Hello there, love birds! Good evening!" she said enthusiastically.

I giggled then stood up and kissed her. "Sa'n ka galing, tita?"

"I went to meet some old friends of mine." she answered. "Oh, hello Nathan. Too lazy to stand up?"

Nathan groaned. "You're so annoying lola Marian. I was having a sweet time with my wife."

I giggled as tita Marian rolled her eyes. "That is the last time you will call me lola. Well then, I'm sorry. Go on. Continue you're sweet talks to Gianna and ignore me as I climb up the stairs."

Nathan gave her a thumb up. "Ok. Come here, Sweet Wife!"

Tita Marian gave him an are-you-kidding-me look before climbing the stairs. xD "Handsome idiot. Hmp."

I chuckled when I heard tita Marian. Parang ako lang dati ah. xD

But Nathan just ignored tita Marian. "Gorgeous wife." he kept calling.

"Oh?"

"10 days akong wala."

"I miss you."

"Aw. Di yan."

"Ano?"

He grinned evilly. "Quadruplets, Gorgeous Wife."

"Oi, tumigil."

"Sige naaaaaaa."

"Nathan," I sighed. Ang hilig ng aking mahal. XD

"Please, please, please?"

I shifted my gaze away from his pleading eyes. Mahirap na.

"Isa lang. Promise."

"Swear?"

"I swear."

I grinned. "Buhatin mo ako paakyat,"

He smiled widely. "Yun lang pala eh. Tara. Hehe."

I smiled smugly when he stood up then scooped me. Lol, this will be an exhausting night. XD

**

Days without Nathan are just so boring that I can't remember what I did the whole week.

I sighed and stood up. Bibili nalang ako ulit ng ice cream. Para na rin makapaglakad-lakad ako. Yan lang naman gawain ko ngayon. Kumain. Haha.

I stepped out into the night. Hindi naman masyado malayo yung bilihan ng ice cream so pwedeng-pwede lakarin.

Hay. I miss Nathan. >_< Alam mo ba yung feeling na matutulog ka, wala ka ng kasama. Pagkagising mo, di mukha ng mahal mo ang una mong makikita. Wala ring magpapaalala sayo na damihan ang kain. I realized that life without Nathan isn't full of life. Words aren't even enough to describe how lonely this week has been. Kaya kayo, wag nyo masyadong pinapayagang umalis yung mahal nyo ng matagal. Nakakalungkot eh. Mehe.

"Cindy..." someone called behind me.

I shivered when a hand grabbed my shoulder. Oh, sht. Whoever this person is, he strongly smells like beer!

"Cindy, kausapin mo naman ako," sabi nung sa likod ko.

I can feel my heart beat so fast. I swallowed some air. Oh, jeez. I'm so scared to turn around.

Summoning all my courage, I glanced at him slowly. "I-I'm sorry. I'm not C-Cindy." I can feel my hands and knees shaking. Syempre! This guy is drunk! Who knows what he might do to me?! Oh, shocks. I'm freaking scared. I m having goose bumps all over me! Oh, gaaaaawd. Someone, please, help me. TT^TT

"Excuse me." I heard someone said that made me forget all the fear that I feel. I won't forget this voice. The voice of the one I love. Even in my sleep, I'll recognize this voice. But, what is he doing here? "I think that's my wife's shoulder you're holding." he said.

At that moment, Nathan gave me the most assuring smile.

"Asawa? Walang asawa si Cindy!" answered the drunken guy.

Napabuntong-hininga ako. So he still thinks that I'm that Cindy, huh?

"Gianna ho ang pangalan nyan. Hindi Cindy. At asawa ko yan." sagot naman ni Nathan. I couldn't help but smile on what he said. Kinikilig ako eh! Hahaha. I know para akong baliw. Kinikilig sa ganitong situation? Kulang-kulang ata ako. Hahaha.

"Gianna?" ulit naman nung lalaki sa pangalan ko.

I nodded at him. "Oho. Gianna ho. Gi-a-nna."

Pinakatitigan nya muna ako tapos parang napasong tinanngal yung kamay nya sa balikat ko. "Ay! S-sorry ho!"

I smiled at him. Kasama siguro sa club ng mga brokenhearted to. Intindihin nalang natin. xD "Ok lang ho. Wala namang nasaktan."

"Sorry talaga." sabi nya ulit. Tapos parang tulirong lumayo sa amin.

Ilang sandali rin naming pinanood sya habang naglalakad. Tapos, biglang nagsalita si Nathan.

"You're so prone to dangers. Di dapat kita pinapaiwan mag-isa. That one scared me!" Nathan sighed then came over and kissed me on the top of my head.

I smiled apologetically. "Sorry for making you scared."

"That's alright now." he told me while brushing my hair with his hand.

I nodded and took a deep breath then smiled. It's so good to feel the familiar warmth of Nathan. The familiar smell...

Sniff. Wait...

Familiar... smell...

Uhmm... Why does he smell so familiar yet so different?

I sniffed again. How come it smells so... so... girly?

Oh, no. Don't tell me... Oh. fuq.

My smile turned to grimaced. "Nathaniel Marty Miguel."

"Huh? Bakit?"

"You idiot, how come you smell like a girl?!"

"Huh? What?"

Kumalas ako sa kanya at tinitigan sya ng masama. ksjhfglkfhsakfhaksfhksfj! It can't be! But, why the hell he smells like this?! "Oh, damn. Are you--"

"I'm not having an affair!"

"--gay?!"

"Uhm.. Huh?"

My eyes widened. I... I was asking if he was gay. And yet, he denied about having an affair! He's guilty, isn't he? Oh, damn, damn, damn!

My eyes tightened as tears attempted to escape from my eyes. "I was asking if you're gay! Why are you denying about having an affair?! You idiot!"

I started to cry. Masakit eh. Masakit! I love him so much tapos ganyan?!

I struggled as he tries to hug me. I can't have him hugging me! Baka di ko makuhang magalit.

"Shh. There, there, Gorgeous Wife." he said. I tried to struggle again. "I'm not having an affair."

"Kung ganon, ba't amoy babae ka?!"

He chuckled. "Kasi nagkapalit tayo ng perfume."

"Huh?"

"Doesn't it smell familiar to you?"

"I-It does."

"Kasi perfume mo gamit ko."

"I-- What?" I gaped at him. Perfume ko yung gamit nya?

"You heard me right."

Biglang huminto sa pagproduce ng luha yung mata ko. "Oh." nasabi ko nalang.

"Next time, wag kang padalos-dalos sa pag-iisip ng masama ha?" he told me then hugged me again. "You're the only one that I love. How could I hurt you?"

"S-sorry." I told him, a little embarrased. "OA lang."

He chuckled. "It's ok. OA talaga ang tao pag in love."

In the end, natawa na rin lang ako. Nakakatawa naman kasi ginawa ko. xD

Chapter 44: Weird.

I tossed around the bed. Owemgee. OWEMGEE. Ang tagal ni Nathan, my gaaaasssh.

"Gi!" I turned around and saw Nathan catching his breath by the door of our room.

I pouted. "Ang tagal mo."

"Mahal naman. 11 o'clock na. Buti nga 24 hours yung 7/11. Sarado na lahat ng supermarkets." He answered then came over the bed and gave me what I made him buy. "Masakit pa ba ulo mo? Eh yung puson mo?"

I just grinned at him the shook my head. "Uminom akong gamot." I said and opened the plastic bag and saw...

ICE CREAM and STICK Os! xD

Hey! Don't laugh. I've been craving for this for hours.

I opened the ice cream and stick o while Nathan flips the channels. Ginawa kong kutsara yung stick o at pinangsubo ng ice cream. But when the ice cream entered my mouth, I lost my appetite. :(

"What's wrong?" asked Nathan.

I pouted. Tapos nilagay ko sa side table yung ice cream at stick o. "Nawalan ako ng gana."

"Bakit?"

Bakit? Ewan din. Uhh. I'm suddenly craving for something. "I want the ice cream to melt."

"Huh? Ice cream pa ba nun yun? Ba't yun gusto mo?"

I shrugged and lay on his chest. "Ewan. Pa-hug, irog."

"You're so weird lately." he told me then held me in his hands gently.

I didn't answer. Instead, pinanuod ko na rin lang yung pinapanuod nya. It's a movie entitled Beastly. (Nanunuod din pala ng ganto yung mga lalaki. xD) "Modern version yan ng Beauty and the Beast, di ba?"

He nodded while rubbing my shoulders. "Looks like it."

Hindi na ako nagsalita. Instead, nagsumiksik nalang ako sa kanya at inamoy-amoy sya. Wahaha. Ba't ba gustong-gusto ko ang amoy ni Nathan? Parang nadadrugs ako pag naaamoy ko.

"Mahal, baka pati ako masinghot mo." Nathan teased.

Natawa naman ako. Ganon ba ka-obvious pag-amoy ko sa kanya? "I love your smell." I snuggled into him.

"Mahal, kakantahan kita. Narinig ko to nung dumaan ako sa bahay nung kapit-bahay natin." he said.

"Hm? Ano yun? O sige." I answered as I lay on his chest while hearing his stable heartbeat.

"It's something like this." he said then coughed a little. At bumwelo pa talaga eh. "I'm not afraid anymore, I'm not afraid. Forever is a long time, but I wouldn't spending it by your side. Tell me, every day, I get to wake up to that smile; I wouldn't mind it at all. I wouldn't mind it at all."

I was listening to him with my eyes closed when he stopped. "O? Ba't ka tumigil? I like it." tanong ko pagtingala ko sa kanya.

He grinned at me. "Yun lang namemorize ko eh. Itatanong ko nalang title tapos kakantahan kita ulit."

I pinched his nose. "Ayih. Kinikilig naman ako." I told him while laughing.

Tumawa rin sya. "Haha. Oo na. Matulog ka na at may pasok pa tayo bukas."

Saglit akong nag-isip. "Valentines bukas."

"Oo nga."

"Kakain tayo sa labas?"

Tumingin sya sa akin ng nakakaloko. "Ba't pa tayo lalabas kung pwede naman kitang kainin dito?"

At first, I was like 'huh? Then, nag-sink in na sa akin. "Sira!" I told him while laughing.

He touched the tip of my nose. "Sleep. While I can stop myself from eating you."

Bumigat yung pisngi ko. Oo na, oo na. Ako ng nagblush. "Shut up. That's embarrassing. Nahilig ka."

I closed my eyes as I heard him chuckle. Napa-smile na rin lang ako. Then, I let myself drift to sleep while he rubs my shoulder.

**

I waved to Nathan to catch his attention when he entered the cafeteria. Nag-smile naman sya sa akin habang papalapit. Tapos, umupo sya sa tabi ko.

"Happy valentines, Ugly Stick. You look gorgeous as ever." he greeted me.

I giggled at him. "Happy valentines din, Handsome Idiot. Looking as dashing as ever, ah, mahal?"

Then, he just stared and smiled at me. Bigla ngang tumikhim si Renz eh. "Ehem. Love is in the air ah." he said while looking at me, Nathan, Vince and his girlfriend. "I'll try not to breath. 'no, Sam?" tawag nya pa kay Sam na may kausap sa phone.

Natawa naman kami. Tapos nagawi tingin ko kay Des na nakayuko at busy sa pagsulat ng kung ano.

"Huy, Des." I called. "Ano yan?"

She glanced at me then smiled. "Letter ko kay Ashley. Di natapos kagabi."

Renz frowned. "Seryoso kang gusto mo yun?"

Des sighed dreamily. "Oo naman. Sya kaya yung Prince Charming na nagligtas sa akin."

"Nagligtas?" nagtatakang tanong ko. "Nagkita na kayo dati?"

"Sa panaginip. Hehe." sabi ni Destiny kaya naman natawa kami. "Pero, realistic kaya yung dream! Tapos, all of the sudden, nung lumipat ka, Gi, nakita ko sya in person! That's what you call destiny. Haaay." she sighed again dreamily. Tapos, dali-dali syang bumalik sa sinusulat nya.

I stared at my friends. Si Vince and yung girlfriend nya, nagtitigan (unahan daw sila kung sinong agad matutunaw. XD). Si Sam, nakikipag-usap parin sa phone. Di ko maintindihan salita nya. Pero narinig ko syang nag-'Si' so baka Spanish. Hahaha. Si Des nga, nagsusulat. Tapos si Renz, pinapanuod yung kamay ni Des. Parang mga adik lang eh. XD

"Uhm. E-excuse me." I voice called. I turned around and saw a girl wearing glasses and hair that was tied on a ponytail. "N-Nathan. F-for you." sabi nya tapos may inabot na box.

Biglang naningkit mga mata ko sa box. I can sense it. Chocolates to! Lagot sa akin tong Nathan na to. Bubugbugin ko pag-uwi! Rawr!

"Ha!? Ah, ehh... Teka. Sino ka ba?" tanong naman ng dakila kong asawa. I shifted my glare to him. "Di ako pumapatol ng inosente."

Ah... So, di na ako inosente kaya pinatulan nya ako?!? Peste kang Nathan ka! Bubugbugin talaga kita pag-uwi!

Napatingin naman sa akin si Nathan. I gave him my sweetest smile. Tinaas-baba ko pa mga kilay ko.

Lagot ka talaga sa akin. Ipahanda mo na yung yelo at betadine. Maghanda ka na rin ng kulambo sa labas ng bahay.

Nathan gulped. "S-sorry miss. K-kasal n-na kasi ako s-sa kanya." he stammered then pointed to me.

I smiled at the girl. I saw her flinched. "Ay, s-sorry po!" she said then walked away fast.

Iniwas ni Nathan yung tingin nya sa akin. Ahh. So may balak kang wag ako tignan? "Nathan." I called.

"Y-yes, Gorgeous?" he asked, clearly nervous.

"Best, stop smiling like that." biglang singit ni Sam. Tapos na pala makipag-usap sa phone. xD "It looks creepy. Parang mangangain ka ng tao."

"Ha?" I smiled at Sam. "Ako, best? Mangangain ng tao? Nagjojoke ka ba? Hihi."

I felt Nathan flinched. At first, tatanung-tanungin ko lang sana sya. Kaya lang, bigla kong ayaw makita yung mukha nya. Parang kukulo dugo ko pag nakita ko sya. I turned slowly at him then wiped the smile off of my face. "GET OUT OF HERE!!"

Napapikit si Nathan. "G-Gi naman eh. Di ko naman kilala yun eh."

"I don't care. I dont want to see your face. Alis! Shoo! Layas!" sabi ko sa kanya habang pilit pinapaalis.

Nathan's shoulder dropped. Then, tumayo sya at umalis. All the while, pinapanuod lang pala kami nila Sam, Des and others.

I just ignored them and faced my food. Makatitig naman sila, wagas eh.

But, after a few moments, I wanna see Nathan's face again. :(

I sighed. Napano ba kasi ako? Para akong baliw. Ayaw ko sya makita kanina. Tapos ngayon, gustong-gusto ko syang makita. Hay. :<

Napasimangot nalang ako tapos napatingin sa seafo egg na ulam ni Sam. In that instant, para akong naglaway. So, agad-agad kong kinuha yun at tinikman. xD

"B-best?" Sam called, a bit shocked. "F-favorite ko yan. Wag mong ubusin!"

I just smiled at him. Pero nung pangalawa ko ng subo, bigla akong nawalan ng gana. Parang may kulang? Hay. =___="

I glanced down at my carbonara. Tapos sa seafo egg. Tapos sa carbonara ko ulit. My face lit up. Hmm. Parang masarap paghaluhin yung seafo agg and carbonara ah! Ma-try nga!

Kinuha ko yung seafo egg tapos nilagay ko sa carbonara ko. Agad kong tinikman pagkahalo ko. Yummm! Tama nga! Masarap nga! Waaaaa~!

I was eating happily when I noticed that my friends were watching me. "Bakit?"

"Did you just put some seafo egg... on your... carbonara?" di makapaniwalang tanong ni Vince.

I nodded. "Yup. Wanna try? Masarap!"

Yuck. Sam mouthed. I just scowled at him and continued eating.

I just rolled my eyes. Tapos, may biglang may tumikhim sa likuran ko. Paglingon ko, may 3 lalaking naka-line. Yung sa may right, mukhang matino, matalino at normal. Ganun din yung sa gitna. Pinagka-iba nga lang, mas matangkad yung sa gitna. Tapos yung nasa left side, medyo maliit pero cute na parang bata. Ta's naka-smile pa ng bonggang-bongga. Parang commercial

lang ng Close Up eh. I frowned at them. "Ano meron at nakapila ho kayo dyan? NFA rice ho ba? Wala na hong stock."

Tumawa si Mr. Close Up. "H-hi, Gianna."

Nagsmile din si cute-guy-in-the-middle. "Hello, Gi." Ay. FC lang? Pero, infairness. Gwapo nga. I may be inlove with Nathan. Pero aware parin ako sa surroundings ko no!

"Hi, Gi." segunda naman ni cute-guy-on-the right.

I smiled at them. "Sino kayo?"

Tumawa ulit si Mr. Close Up. "Joker ka nga. Haha. Chocolates?"

"Flowers?" offer naman agad ni cute-guy-on-the-left tapos may prinoduce na flowers sa likod.

"Love letter?" dagdag pa ni cute-guy-on-the-middle.

I laughed. Not bad. Really.

"HOY! TRIPLETS NA BINIBIGYAN NG REGALO SI GIANNA!"

Napataas ako ng kilay nung marinig ko boses ni Nathan. I glanced beside them and saw him instantly standing on a table.

"DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT COURTING HER BECAUSE SHE'S ALREADY MY WIFE!"

...

Zzzzz...

HUH!?!

There was a buzz around the room. Tapos napakamot ng batok si Mr. Close Up. "Asawa mo si Nathan?" he asked. I nodded. "Seriously? Uhm. Sorry ha?"

I smiled at them. Tapos, nagpaalam na sila. Pero bago pa man nakalayo, si cute-guy-on-themiddle ay biglang humirit. "Maganda ka parin kahit may asawa ka na!"

Napailing nalang ako habang natatawa. That guy is a flatterer. Really. xD

"O, Gi. Pinagsigawan na asawa ka nya." sabi ni Des.

I shrugged. "Who cares?"

"I care." said Nathan then took his place before. "Ba't ba kasi masyado kang maganda?"

"Oh, stop flattering me."

"Haha," he just laughed then kissed me. "May emergency. Out of town. I'll go with lolo."

"Ha?" I said, startled by his surprise announcement. "Sana walang nangyaring masama."

"I'll be back tomorrow."

I sighed. "Ok."

Pero hindi sya gumalaw at tumitig lang sa akin. I stared back. Wait. I feel like there's something wrong about the way he looks at me. Parang may gusto syang sabihin? And I can trace some few lines on his forehead. He looks like worried. Ganun ba kalala yung emergency?

"What's wrong?" I asked while tracing his frown.

He took my hand and kissed it. "Nothing." he said.

I smiled assuringly at him and he just stared at me. We were like that nung bigla syang nagsalita. "Gi, whatever happens, I love you, ok?"

Huh? He's so weird. XD Ah. Baka nagselos lang kanina. Haha. "Ok." I nodded.

He stood up and kissed me on the top of my head. Then, he was gone.

I sighed.

"Kayo ng madrama!" sabay-sabay na sabi ng mga kaibigan ko kaya naman natawa ako.

"Shut up!" I told them while laughing. Nakisali nalang sila sa akin sa pagtawa.

At that moment, biglang nag-iba yung amoy ng hangin. "Ano yun? Ang baho." I grimaced.

"Ha? Alin?" tanong naman ni Renz habang sumisinghot. "Di naman."

"It smells bad. I don't like that smell." I told Renz. Tapos, bigla akong nanggigil at gusto syang kurutin!

I reached for Renz and pinched his cheeks hard. "A-aray!"

I giggled and let him go. He sobbed while rubbing his cheeks. I laughed and stared at him. Ba't parang ang cute nya ngayon? xD

"Wala naman eh, Best," singit naman bigla ni Sam. "You're so weird. Pinagsama mo yung seafo egg ko at carbonara. Tapos ang dali mong napikon sa asawa mo pero after a few moments, solid kang maglambing sa kanya. Tapos, kung makakurot ka kay Renz, wagas. Kung anu-ano pa naaamoy mo. May sakit ka ba?'

"Ha?" I touched my neck to check my temperature. Ok naman. "Wala naman. Ewan nga eh. Ang weird ko lately. Kagabi nga, kinulit ko pa si Nathan na ibili akong ice cream at stick o."

They were quiet for a while. Then, Destiny suddenly squeaked.

"Bakit?" I asked.

She smiled at me. "Gi, aren't you pregnant?!"

Ah. Pregnant. Buntis. Sino? Teka... Ako?! Buntis?! Weh?! Di nga?! Joke ba to!??!?!?

"Oo nga no?" tango naman ni Sam. Then, for a moment, I thought he looked sad but he suddenly cracked a smile. "Ninong ako, Best!"

"Are you kidding me?! Me?! Pregnant?! HAHAHAHA!"

Des rolled her eyes. "Stop laughing. Madalas ka bang mahilo?"

"Lately, kind of."

"Morning sickness, meron ka?"

"Ugh. Every day and I hate every seconds of it."

"Delayed ka ba?"

I shrugged. "Lagi naman. Irregular ako."

"Ah. Hmm." Des nodded. Pinapanuod lang kami nung iba na parang dalawang team ng basketball na naglalaro. XD "Menstrual cramps?"

I nodded.

"Uh. Ano pa ba. Nabasa ko kasi sa internet." Des told us. "Teka. Isip pa ako. Ay oo! Weird cravings and sensitivity! Owemgee, Gi! Buntis ka! WAAAAA!!"

Me? Pregnant? Uwaaaaaa. :D

I smiled slowly. Owemgee. That's great! I'm pregnant! I am! I a-- Wait. Di pa ako sure. Wag muna magsaya. Baka madissapoint. "Papa-checkup ako bukas." I told them.

"That's great, best!" sabi naman ni Sam. Tapos nag-apir sila lahat. Mga kaibigan ko talaga. Parang baliw. XD

Pero, sana. Sana talaga buntis ako. :">

**

"Hello, Denice? Pwede samahan bukas?" I asked Denice on the other line of my phone.

"Saan?"

"Papa-checkup ako eh."

"Ha? Nako. Napano ka? Di ba pwedeng kina Des ka na patulong? May exams kami bukas eh, Gi." she said, sounding a little worried.

"Ah. Haha." I chuckled. "That's ok. Hanap nalang ako. Sige, thanks, Den. Goodluck bukas!"

"Thanks, Gi. Ingat ha? Balitaan mo ako." she told me.

"I will. Bye." I told her then ended the call.

Pagbaba ko ng phone ko, napabuntong-hininga naman ako. Kanina ko pa inaya si Des kaya lang unang nagpatulong yung kuya nya eh. Di naman daw nya makulit na ibahin yung araw para gawin yung dapat na gawin kasi importante daw yun. Di ko na pinilit kasi parang natetempt talaga syang samahan naman ako. Kaya lang, ayoko namang may maudlot na lakad sa akin kaya sabi ko, ok na.

Naghanap ako ulit sa contacts ng matatawagan. Si Ashley naman ngayon yung nakita ko. I dialled Ashley's number. Medyo matagal din nung bago nya sinagot.

"H-he-- achoo!" Ashley sniffed. "Sorry. Da who itech?"

"Ashley! Si Gianna to. Napano ka?"

"Ay, bakla. Eto. Nilalagnat."

"Ha? Nako naman. Ayan kasi."

"Ay bakla! Medyo ok pa ako kanina! Kaya lang biglang sumugod ditey si baklang Destiny! Wititit naman magawa si Mother Earth kundi magsaya! Akala ba naman, jowa ko si baklang Destiny! My golly! Sinusumpa ko sa gwapong fez ni fafa Sam, fafa Nathan, fafa Aaron at mga friendships ni fafa Sam na sizzling hot na ipapakulong ko sa iisang kwarto ang baklang Destiny na yun at-at-- achoo! Excuse me, mah dear. At si Mother Earth pag gumaling na aketch! Grabeng torture with the two of them, my gaaad!"

I giggled. Haba ng speech eh. xD "Parang wala ka naman sakit eh. Kung di ka lang paos. And you're sneezing at me! May sakit ka nga. Haha. O sige. Pagaling ha Ashley?"

"I will mah dear." sagot naman nya.

"Bye." I told Ashley. Tapos in-end ko na yung call.

Napabuntong-hininga ulit ako at naghanap ulit sa contacts ko. Pag wala na ako nakita, ako nalang mag-isa.

My eyes laid on Sam's name. Oo nga no! Ba't di ko naisipang ayain tong bestfriend ko?! I dialed his number fast. Agad naman nyang sinagot.

"O, Hersheys? Napatawag?"

"Sam! Samahan bukas? Please?"

"Sa OB-gyne? O sige. Anong oras?" he asked.

I clapped my hands happily. "Yes! Thanks best! The best ka! 2PM bukas ha?"

He chuckled. "Nangbola ka pa chocolate. Haha. O sige. See you."

"Sige. Thanks!" I told him again. Tumawa nalang sya tapos tinapos na yung call.

I took a deep breath. Moment of truth na bukas. Haha. Sana good news ang marinig ko. :)

Chapter 45: A thin iced happiness.

Happiness is like stepping in thin ice. It's easily crashed. Standing too long on it will break the ice and drown you in pain and sorrows.

**

*Gianna's POV*

"Congratulations, Mrs. Miguel. You're a soon-to-be mother."

Those words that the doctor said keep on playing on my mind. Oh, God. I'm just so... so happy. I can't believe it. I'm having a baby. Me and Nathan. We'll be a complete family. This is just so perfect.

"O, best. Tinitignan mo yung dinadaanan mo," Sam reminded me while assisting me on climbing down the stairs. "You should be more careful now that you're pregnant."

I smiled at him. "Sorry. Haha. I will. Don't worry." I told him. "And, Sam? Thanks for helping me. Nagka-emergency kasi si Nathan eh."

"That's ok." he assured me. "I'm sure Nathan will be happy. Tell him right away, ok?"

I nodded. "I will."

He smiled at me then, we continued walking along the hospital hallway.

While walking, I can't help but touch my tummy. It now contains a life that was God-given to me and Nathan. Oh, Lord. Thank You for this wonderful gift. Grabe, Lord. I'm so happy because You gave us a chance to be happy.

I wonder if it's a girl. Kasi di ba, gusto ni Nathan, babae yung panganay namin. Pero, if ever na boy to, I'm sure, Nathan will love him so much. Because, thats the kind of person he is, isn't he?

Sana pag-uwi ko, nakauwi na rin si Nathan. I want to tell him right away the good news. I can already imagine how happy he will be. For sure--

I stopped at my tracks when I noticed a familiar back that was facing me. But... No. I must be imagining it. Sa sobrang gusto ko ng makita si Nathan, na-i-imagine ko na sya sa harap ko.

I'm right, aren't I?

I was about to smile and tell myself that I'm so silly when a woman came out a door the hugged and kissed the person in front of me.

But, like I said. That person isn't...

Nathan...

I... Ahm.. I... Huh?

W-wait. W-what's happening? Ba't kahalikan ni Nathan y-yung babae?

I closed my eyes and held Sam's hand tightly like I was afraid I would fall. T-that couldn't Nathan, right? Because he's with lolo. That's what he told me.

But I knew I was fooling myself when Sam confirmed my suspicions.

"N-Nathan? Gwen?" I heard Sam stammer.

Binitiwan ni Sam yung pagkakaalalay sa akin tapos lumapit kay Nathan. Then, he gripped Nathan's collar angrily. "What the fuq are you doing?!"

But, Nathan just stared at me. "I-I'm sorry, Gianna. I-I got her p-pregnant."

What the--

I got her pregnant.

I got her pregnant.

I closed my eyes when I fully understood what he said. I choke back the tears that were attempting to escape. "You got her... pregnant."

I slowly came over to them and held Sam's shoulder to calm him down. I didn't dare to look at Gwen. I just couldn't bear looking at her and thinking that she, too, bears Nathan's child.

I closed my eyes. "Sam. C-calm down." I tightened my hold to Sam as I can feel myself weakening. I didn't dare to open my eyes for I was afraid that tears might come falling. But, it was no help. Even in my eyes closed, tears started to fall.

"G-Gianna." I heard Nathan say silently.

My heart clenched painfully as he call me. I took a deep breath and opened my eyes. I opened them to face the truth. The painful truth that was displayed in front of me.

I was pulling Sam when Nathan caught my hand.

"Please." Nathan pleaded. I pulled it away and held tightly to Sam.

"Sam. Please." I begged Sam before while I try not to break down and cry. But, I can still feel my heart be teared into a millions of pieces.

Sam looked enraged. But I stared at him with pleading eyes. "But, Gianna. You're pr--"

"Please. I don't-- Just-- I'll call y-you." I tried to control myself but I was on the brink of crying!

Nathan reached out and took my hand again. This time, stepped backward and tripped. At that moment, I felt like I can't control my feelings anymore. I gave up controlling myself and cried. But when they tried to help me, I just stood up and ran.

Damn! What's happening?! Why did he do that to me?! Masaya naman kami, di ba?! Bakit kahalikan nya si Gwen?! Didn't he tell me that I'm the one he loves!? That he's over with Gwen?! How come he got her pregnant?! Dammit! What is this sht!?

Paglabas ko ng hospital, cold, heavy raindrops greeted me. I ran without direction, because, heck. I don't know where I'm supposed to go!

My heart clenched tightly again when I remembered the scene earlier. I cursed the rain for making me blind by it but then, I realized, it was just my tears richly coming out and mixing with the rain.

I was crying. I was crying but no sound tempted to escape from my lips. I was just silently crying and feeling the suffering pain from my chest... from my heart.

I was wet as hell when I suddenly tripped over something. Oh, great. Just great. Nasugatan ko pa ang sarili ko. Well, ok. I don't even know if the bruise hurts or what. It just got mix with the pain that I felt in my heart.

I stood up and continued walking, blinded by the raindrops and my tears. Ba't ang sakit? Ba't ang sakit-sakit?! Ba't ba nakuha nya kong lokohin?! Di ba, masaya na kami?! Ba't nya pa ginawa yon!? May kulang ba sa akin?! HA?! WALA NAMAN DI BA?! WALA! Pero, bakit ganun? Bakit? Ang sakit eh! Ang sakit-sakit talaga! Taena lang!

Wanting to wash my tears with the rain, I closed my eyes and glanced up. Siguro, mukha na akong baliw. But, who cares? I have every right to be like this. My husband cheated on me. I love him but he cheated on me. We've known each other for so long but he still chose to break my heart into tiny little pieces.

Tell me, how dumb is that?! Hahahaha. Funny, isn't it? I gave everything but he broke my heart. It's so funny. It's like the modern relationship nowadays. Well, it's a perfect formula. A wife that loved her husband, a husband that can have anything he wants and an ex that can take the husband away. What a perfect formula. Pwedeng-pwede sa MMK ang story namin no? Hahahaha. Why? Because Nathan cheated on me! It's so funny!

Hahaha...

Nathan cheated on me...

Nanglalambot akong napaupo sa basang-basang daan. Tell me, bakit ganon? Ang gusto ko lang naman, maging isa kaming masayang pamilya. Mahirap ba yun?

I embraced myself tightly. It feels like I'll shatter so easily. Ba't ganyan? We were happy, aren't we? Why does it feel like I stepped in thin ice of happiness that was easily broken, wrecked and crashed?

"Gianna!" I glanced around when I saw someone call. "Gianna!" it called again.

I stood up slowly. Baka hinahanap ako ni Sam. I must calm myself fi--

"Gianna! Don't run away from me!" my eyes widened when I saw N-Nathan l-looking at m-me.

The stabbing pain in my chest was refreshed when I saw his face. That face. That face which greets me every morning when I opened my eyes. The face that I thought I'll spend my whole life with. That person who owns that face is now the reason of my pain.

He took some steps closer to me. I stepped back. "D-don't." I gasped.

He again came a bit more closed then tried to reach for me. I stepped back a bit farther from him. I don't want him to touch. I won't know what will happen to me if that happens.

"Gianna," he begged. "Please."

Napayakap ako ng mahigpit sa sarili ko. Di ko na alam ang gagawin eh! "NATHAN, PLEASE! IWAN MO AKO! YOU BROKE MY HEART! YOU B-BROKE IT!" I screamed at him. Tapos, tinuro-turo ko yung dibdib. "MASAKIT DITO! SOBRA! MASAKIT NA MASAKIT!"

"G-Gianna. Let me explain."

Nasabunot ko yung sarili ko sa kalituhan. Gulong-gulo na ako! Mahal ko sya pero masakit. Ayoko na. Di ko na alam. Gusto ko nalang umiyak. "Explain? How can y-you explain something like that?!"

"Gi, hear me ou--" he tried to said. But, I never had the chance to hear out what he wants to say because it was drowned by loud honking of a car.

I turned on my side while hugging myself tightly when I heard a loud screeching noise. But before I can make out what was happening, Nathan called me again.

The last thing I saw was he trying to reach out for me...

**

*Nathan's POV*

"Gi, hear me ou--" I started but before I can talk, there was a loud honk that interrupted me.

Gianna glanced at where it came from. I did, too. But my eyes widened in fear when I saw a car running fast. The distance between the car and Gianna is so little. I just have to pull her!

"GIANNA!" I called at her. She glanced at me while I was trying to reach for her.

But, it's like everything became too slow but too fast. I was just staring at Gianna's face but the next thing I was looking at was her b-bloody body.

My heart clenched. Aren't I just talking to her?

Still shocked, I kneeled over and held her cold, wet, bloody body. Ba't and daming lumalabas na d-dugo sa kanya? Why does it seem like that the blood was coming out from her legs?

Oh, God. D-don't tell me...

"Y-you're pregnant." I said, just realizing it.

Oh, my God. She's pregnant. I glanced around for help. "Help. For goodness sake, someone, help!"

While calling for help, tears were starting to blind my eyes. She was pregnant. She was pregnant and I made her lose the baby. And it was our baby. That was my baby.

I gritted my teeth. How could I? I killed my own baby! That was my baby. That was m-mine.

I hugged Gianna's body close to mine to fill the hollowness and emptiness in my heart. What have I done?

**

*Gianna's POV*

I opened my eyes and found myself in the familiar white room of a hospital. At first, hindi ko alam kung bakit nandito ako. But, after a while, I remembered.

Nathan.

My chest tightened. I blinked back the tears that were tempting to escape from my eyes.

"Gianna." I heard someone call. I glanced around in panic and saw Sam lying on the hospital couch.

"Sam." I said rather weakly. I thought...

"How are you?" he asked.

I forced myself to smile at him. "I'm--" I touched my tummy. Why does it feel so soft and empty? "Sam," I called at him, trying not to think about the worst. "W-why can't I feel my b-baby?''

Umiwas sya ng tingin. "Want some juice?"

"Sam, why can't I feel my baby?" I repeated.

He sighed and stared into my eyes. "Gi, I'm sorry."

From the words he said, my strongest fear was confirmed.

I shook my head. "No. No, Sam. That can't be. T-that's impossible."

"Gi..."

"She's gone, isn't she? She's gone. Yes. Yes, she is gone." I told Sam.

Sam hugged me. I can't feel the pain Nathan did to me anymore. All I can feel now is the emptiness and pain for losing my child.

**

*Sam's POV*

Days passed but I never saw Gianna cry. Not even once. Pano ko nasabi? I'm practically living here in the hospital with her. Bumibisita rin naman yung mga kaibigan naming sina Ashley, Des, Aaron, Denice, Vince and Renz. Pero ako talaga kasama ni Gianna dito. Hindi kasi maasikaso ng mga Miguel kasi nahospital din si lolo Martin. Inatake daw nung nalaman yung mga nangyari. Pero pumupunta rin naman dito yung kapatid ni lolo Martin na si tita Marian.

Lumapit ako kay Gianna at hinawakan ko yung kamay nya. She just stared at me with expressionless eyes. My chest tightened. I'd rather break my heart and watch her be happy with Nathan like before than seeing her like this.

Napatingin ako sa may pintuan nung may narinig akong maingay sa labas. What's the commotion all about?

I kissed Gianna's forehead first before heading out of the room. Outside, I saw Nathan fighting with Aaron while some people restrain them.

"I'm his husband, dammit!" I heard Nathan yell at Aaron.

"Wala akong pakielam! All I know is you broke Gianna's heart and you made her lose her child! Is that what you call 'husband'!?" ganting sigaw naman ni Aaron.

"Umalis ka na, Nathan. Baka di ako makapagpigil at mapatay kita dahil sa ginawa mo sa kaibigan namin." sabi naman ni Ashley. This was the very first time I saw them this angry and serious. Lalo na si Ashley. Normally, lumalayo yan kay Destiny. Pero ngayon, todo hawak kamay pa sila.

I sighed and came over to them. "What do you want?"

"Let me talk to Gianna." he answered.

"Come when she's in better state." I told him. I grimaced at him. "I thought you really love her. That's why I never told Gianna that you agreed to Sir Martin that you'll inherit the company if you got her pregnant."

I waited for him to answer. But, he just stared pass behind me.

"Gianna..." Nathan said quietly.

I turned around and saw Gianna with the most heartbreaking expression before running back to her room. By the looks of it, she heard me. Siguro, tama na rin yun. Para pag nasaktan sya dahil kay Nathan, minsanan nalang.

Nathan tried to run after her but Aaron caught him. "Stop hurting her, you idiot." he told Nathan.

Hindi ko nalang sila pinansin at binalikan si Gianna sa kwarto nya. I found her crying. It breaks my heart to see her like this. I love this girl but I can't even protect her. I can't even do anything for her.

I went and held her tightly. How can I leave her like this? Then, a thought entered my mind. "Come with me, Gi. I'll take you away from here."

She stared at me while tears glide from her eyes. "Yes. Yes, please. Take me away, I beg you, Sam."

**

*Gianna's POV*

Why, God? Why are You doing this to me? What have I done? I just loved h-him, right? Is that wrong? Why did You take my angel away from me? Isn't it taking Nathan away and breaking my heart enough? Why do I have to be in such pain? Why did you made me step in a thin iced happiness? That will eventually break and drown me in pain? Why?

"Come with me, Gi. I'll take you away from here." I stared at Sam. I didn't notice that he followed me.

At once, I remembered what I heard. So, Nathan didn't do all those things because he loves me. He did those things for money, power and fame. What the hell is this sht.

Maybe God did this to me because He doesn't want me to be with someone like Nathan. Maybe, He's giving me another chance to renew my life. Maybe coming with Sam is right. "Yes. Yes, please. Take me away, I beg you, Sam."

**

Life isn't always the way we want it to be. Minsan, kailangan mong masaktan at mawalan bago mo ma-appreciate yung meron ka. At sa love, minsan, kahit mahal mo yung isang tao, kahit

nagmamahalan kayo, kailangan mo parin syang pakawalan kasi pareho lang kayong nasasaktan. Hindi naman ibig sabihin nito ay mahina ka. Ang ibig sabihin nito, you're just strong enough to let go and stand on your own. And malay mo. This is not your time. Who knows? God might have bigger, grander and wonderful plans for you.

Maybe you're thinking that life isn't fair. But, that's just the way it is. Why? Because God wants you to remember Him and trust Him. And if life's fair, would we trust Him? Would we even dream about something? Would we work hard to get what we really want? Would we appreciate the little things we have? I think not. Because, I was like that. When life was fair to me, I abused it. I lose the chance to appreciate someone and that made me lose her.

Now, the lessons learned. But, she's not here with me anymore. Maybe that was the payment for all the things I've done, for all the decisions I made. Because, I believe there's no such thing as karma. There are only choices in life. And I made all the wrong choices that brought me here. I know it's ok to have mistaken sometimes. Because, that way, we will learn. But, I also learned that even if it's ok to make mistakes, it's wrong to choose wrong things and make so many mistakes. Because, this might make all the right choices you made go to waste. And we wouldn't want that, do we?

A New Start... An ending isnt just an ending. It's also a new beginning. A sad ending doesn't mean that everything's wrong and not quite right. It means that you chose some wrong choices and you must start again and find the right choices. An ending doesn't mean you've been forgotten. It means you have a chance to make them remember you. It's never too late to and something

and start again. A happy ending doesn't mean that you have to stop making happy moments. It only means that you've got to make many happier moments and memories that you can look back at any part of your life. It might have ended happy, sad, funny or quirky but it doesn't mean that you can never start a new chapter of choices, a new story of life. Because an ending also means a new start.

After being discharged in the hospital, Gianna never went back to the house where she lives with Nathan. Instead, Sam went for her and gave back the wedding ring and cellphone that Nathan gave to her. When Nathan received them, he went back to his and Giannas room and stared at their things. For those things remind him all the days that he spent with Gianna. And as he stare to them, only one thing was running on his mind. Would Gianna ever forgive him?

Living for a while with Denice, Gianna never regained the warmness and energy she had. But when she finally received the letter which contains the visa and ticket she was dreading for, she couldnt help but smile a little. For she was leaving the place where she lost everything. And in the blink of an eye, she was boarding the plane all the way to New York. Sure, shes devastated to be parted with her friends and family but she needs to live her life again. She needs to forget her feelings for Nathan. She needs to forget the pain she felt. And she needs to remember the person who she was before it all happened. And she knows that coming with Sam might help her do that.

They rented her an apartment and she tried to live a normal life. For she doesnt want to worry her best friend. But, her first summer in New York was sad and difficult. She needs to control her nightmares that made her wake up screaming and crying in the middle of the night.

Nathans first summer without Gianna was sure hell. Seeing the people who reminds him of his wife was hard. But, having to live in a lonely house was sure difficult. And he doesnt need reminding about Gianna. For this hurts the people around him; her grandfather, grandmother and the pregnant Gwen.

Autumn in New York was a bit different for Gianna. She was able to take an entrance test in a college and resume studying. Thanks to Sams help, who, by the way, shifted his course to advance business management. They were able to go to school together. But, she never shifted her course and sticked with Architecture. For there, she can create designs that she can dedicate to her angel up in the clouds. And, for that, she called her unborn baby, Angel. Because shes the angel that was guiding her.

As for Nathan, it never changed. Even if its not every day, it was hell being with Gwen. Did he really love this girl before? It seems impossible.

Sam was able to spend the winter with Gianna. It was the happiest Christmas he ever had. For he was with his family and Gianna. He might not have been able to confess to Gianna, but he was able to take good care of her and help her forget the pain Nathan did to her.

Gianna was sure more livelier when spring came. She had more friends than the first time she came here. But, she never forgot the friends who understood her, took care of her and fought for her. For they were the ones who sticked to her, whatever decisions she made. She might still have nightmares about her losing Angel but she was getting better. She was able to make this pain into strength. Although a thought about Nathan sometimes make her feel weak and sad.

Nathans summer was a bit better. For when he saw the baby boy that Gwen delivered growing up, he thought that it was never too late to try to be happy. They named him Daniel Martin. Although he keeps him, lolo Martin and tita Marian entertained, he quite couldnt forget the fact that if only nothing happened, he would still be living with Gianna with their baby. And this thought couldnt be erased in his mind even if Daniel and Gwen tried to make him happy. But the confusing thing was; he couldnt feel any strong blood relation with Daniel. Maybe because he was still thinking about his supposed-to-be-child with Gianna.

Autumn in Paris was amazing, thanks to Sam. Due to his business meetings, he was able to bring Gianna in France. And because of that, Gianna was able to see amazing structures that helped her a lot in her studies when they got back in New York. She was really grateful to Sam. For within a year, he learned all the things that need to be learned in business and was able to graduate early. They had dinner for a celebration. Sam was surely helping her be happier.

His autumn was a different. For he was able to attend meetings internationally. The Miguel Corporation was finally known internationally. Now, he needs to be more responsible. For hes the one running the company. Lolo Martin couldnt run it anymore. The events happened last year had a great impact on him and made his heart weaker. They couldnt afford to see him be stressed and sad for they dont want to lose him. If only he could see his dear Gianna, he might have a better health for he will be freed from his anxiousness.

Christmas was never been better with Sam and his family. This time, they had guests. The whole gang was at New York! They reunion and talked about a lot of things. They missed each other! Gianna was only able to thank Sam for this wonderful gift. Sam was sure an angel sent from the above.

The second spring made Nathan busier. For hes having problems of his own. Gwen was pestering him to get married. But, how can he marry someone he doesnt love?

Giannas third summer was a lot of fun. Because Sam brought them to Hawaii! Yes, the whole gang again! They spent the summer having fun, swimming, walking at the beach and trying to surf. All she could do was stare at her friends and smile. She sure loves them.

Sams autumn with Gianna was relieving. Because he can see that she was finally living her life again. She was able to get back to the Gianna before. Now, he promised her to give her the very first project shell make after graduating. All she could do was jump in joy.

Winter was a little scary for Gianna. For she contacted her lolo Martin. And when lolo Martin answered the phone, all she did was tell him she missed him.

The third and fourth year of Gianna living in New York had passed. Its amazing how time fly fast. She was now an official architect of Lopez Group. Sam hired her on the day she graduated. Thats why she always does her very best on doing the designs of the buildings.

Daniel was three years old and Gwen was pestering him about marriage. All he could do was nod and make some excuses. Its bad but, theres a part in Nathan where he hopes that shell be able to meet Gianna again. Where in the world is she?

Our story would finally start again after Gianna left Nathan four years ago. Dont you wonder what would happen to their lives? Is it just the start? Or its already headed to the ending where Gianna is happy and Nathan is pretending to be happy? Dont you wonder?

Chapter 46: Strawberry smoothie.

*Gianna's POV*

"Marry me."

I stared to Sam after he said that. Tapos napailing nalang ako at nag-focus ulit sa blueprint design na ginagawa ko. "Sino nanaman ang humahabol sayo at kailangan mo ng fiance ngayon?"

He grinned. "Kilala mo talaga ako, best. Haha. It's just, there's this some weird photographer who's dying to take a picture of me because "she was head over heels in love" with me."

I frowned. "What's wrong about her taking pictures of you?"

"Nude pictures?"

"Seriously?"

"Uh-huh,"

"The hell. HAHAHAHA! What is it to see?! Lol. She sure is funny!" I laughed out loud. I saw Sam pout.

"Uy, ah best. Ginaganyan mo ako. Ilang beses narin akong naging front covers ng mga magazines dito." he told me.

I just rolled my eyes. Hinahanginan nanaman po ang aking dakilang best friend. "Ok, ok. Send her an invitation. Gusto ko sa Venice ah."

"Ang mahal mo pala." he kidded then took off his coat and hanged it on his swiveling chair.

"Whatever." sabi ko nalang tapos napatitig sa labas. Nasa office ko ngayon ni Sam. CEO na sya ng company nila so nasa pinakaitaas kami ng building. I tell you, this building is a skyscraper. It has a great view of New York. Kaya gusto kong tumatambay dito eh. Lalo na pag ginagabi kami ni Sam, yung view sa labas, my gaaash. It's so breathtaking.

There was a knock on the door that reminded me of my work. Ginagawa ko nga pala yung design sa condominium na pinapagawa ni Sam. Yun lang ginagawa ko. Ang mag-design na mag-explain kung paano gagawin at kung anong gagamiting materials. Pero, mahal ho sweldo ko. Iba talaga pag bigatin boss mo. Tapos mas maganda kung yung boss mo eh takot sayo. Mehe. xD

"Come in." said Sam. Tapos bumukas yung pinto at pumasok yung secretary nya.

"Good afternoon, Ma'am Chloe, Sir Luke." Sam's secretary, Ryan, announced.

I can't help but crack a smile. Unique din secretary ni Sam eh. Lalaki. Haha. Ayaw daw ni Sam ng babae. Nung huli kasi, muntik na syang gayumahin! HAHAHAHA! Na-trauma ang loko! xD

Sam wore his glasses (which by the way doesn't suit him. Pero sabi ng iba, bagay nya. Ay ewan. xD) and frowned to Ryan. "What's wrong?"

"Mr. Miguel is requesting for a meeting right now." Ryan told Sam.

I saw Sam sigh and glance at me. I smiled at him. "It's ok, Sam. I'm fine." I said. Alam ko kung bakit ganon reaction nya. It was because 'Miguel' used to be my last name. Funny how common 'Miguel' as a name, huh. "Wala namang multo dito sa office mo di ba?"

"It's my first time meeting him, you know. And he's from Philippines." He grinned at me. "Meron multo dito. Gianna yung pangalan. Hehehe." I rolled my eyes and shook my head. Tapos hinarap ko na ulit yung blueprint ko. "Tell him I'm on my way."

"Yes, Sir." Ryan nodded. Tapos lumabas na sya ng office.

Napailing naman ako ulit. Ryan is no fun when in office. Takot ba talaga kay Sam yun? Ano bang katakot-takot kay Sam at kailangan nyang palagi syang seryoso?

"Bakit?" tanong bigla ni Sam.

"Ang serious naman ni Ryan."

"He needs it. Handling my schedules and meetings is a serious job. Mess it up and who knows what will happen."

I raised my arms like surrender. "You're so strict, you know. Puntahan mo na yung Miguel na yun at baka maganda yung offer nun."

Sam shrugged and wore his coat again. "Call Ryan if you want anything."

"Fine,"

"Later." he said and headed out his office.

Alone, I couldn't help but observe Sam's office. Parang kailan lang nung tabatchoy at iyakin pa yung lalaking yun. Tapos ngayon, habulin na ng mga babae (at mga... lalake. HEHE. Don't mention it to Sam ha? Pero may naging stalker yan na kalahi ni Ashley. xD) at CEO pa! Tapos, tulad nga ng sinabi nya, naging front cover model sya ng mga magazines dito. Why not? He's, like, the youngest most successful CEO here in New York. Grabeng level up ang nakuha ng bestfriend ko no? Pero ako lang ang nakakaalam na behind his strict management, pakainin mo lang yan ng leche flan, lalambot na ang puso nyan. HAHAHA!

Nagawi yung tingin ko sa bakanteng upuan ni Sam. "Marry" him, huh? Ganyan na kalala ang paghahabol kay Sam? Haha. Pero, "marrying" him is the last thing on my mind. Being married isn't even on my mind.

**

*Nathan's POV*

"Excuse me Sir Miguel." I glanced up from the documents I was reading and saw Ryan. "Sir Luke is on his way. Would you care for a cup of coffee, Sir?"

I shook my head. "No, thanks."

Ryan nodded and stood beside the door. I shifted my glance at the busy afternoon New York. But, I ended up observing every detail and design of this room. This room isn't just a plain meeting room. It's very detailed. From the wall paint up to the ceiling and down to the carpet. The wall paint was the color of the sky. I don't know but it relaxes me and helps me focus on the matter at hand. The photography aligned at the wall shows all the logos, achievements and designs that this company had made through the years. Clearly. The one designed this room is

proud of all the achievements the company has made. It's making you decide that you should trust them. Who would have thought that this room is an office? Sa wall paint palang, talo na. Maybe it's a way to impress people who are trying to bargain and deal with the oh-so-famousyoung-CEO. I must say, I'm impressed.

"Excuse me." I called as I continue observing the office. "I say, I'm impressed with the designs of this room. Who could have designed this?"

"I very much thank you for the compliments to our room, Sir." Ryan smiled. "For this room was designed by our company's own Miss Chloe. She's a childhood friend of Sir Luke."

I tensed when I heard the name. Chloe? Have I found the one I was looking for? But... I guess not. Gianna is with Sam. Not with someone named Luke.

I forced myself to relax. There's no use in hoping.

"I believe that this Miss Chloe was the architect of your skyscraper condos and buildings?" I asked him.

Ryan nodded and produced laminated pictures from the cabinet at the corner. "Yes, Sir. Not only had she designed some of our condos and buildings here in New York. Some companies around US and Europe even went and offered us great deals just to make Miss Chloe design for them." he told me while showing me impressive designs and buildings.

"Oh. I say, she's impressive." I nodded as I look at the pictures carefully. "Would I have a chance to meet this talented lady?"

Ryan chuckled. I stared at him questioningly. "Oh, Sir. What makes Miss Chloe more famous in Architecture world was her identity. Only Sir Luke and I know who she really is."

Wow. Pa-mysterious effect? What a waste of energy knowing who she is. As long as I'm satisfied with her works, I'm fine with that.

I just nodded ok. Then, I felt my phone vibrate. I took it and sighed when I saw the one who was calling me. It was Gwen.

I stood up and answered the call. "Bakit?"

"Hello to you, too." she greeted.

I sighed. "I'm a bit busy right now, Gwen."

"I just want to confirm something."

"About what?"

I heard her snort on the other line. "Oh. I don't know. Our wedding, I guess?"

Here we go again. "Gwen, listen. I'll call you later, ok?" I didn't wait for her to answer. Instead, pinatay ko na agad yun phone ko para di na sya makatawag. It's not a very gentlemanly move but, I'm sick and tired of her pestering me about the wedding.

"Excuse me Sir Miguel. Sir Luke had arrived. Please do take your seat." announced Ryan. "Well then, sir. I'll be going and check Mr. Magee about your meeting with him. Good day, Sir."

I sighed. If only I can turn back time.

"Good afternoon." an unusually familiar voice greeted me. "You must be Mr. Miguel."

I turned and froze. I am not staring to Sam.

Am I?

I saw bewilderment in his eyes. "N-Nathan?"

But, at that moment, all I could think was Gianna. Lumapit ako sa kanya. "Where's Gianna?"

At once, the bewilderment was replaced with a cold look. "You don't have to know."

"She's with you, isn't she?" I asked, putting all the puzzle pieces together. Luke. Samuel Luke Lopez. Lopez Group of Companies. And, Chloe. Gianna Chloe. Damn! How could I not notice?! I never thought that Sam would be managing a company! "Where is she?"

"If you don't have a proper business proposal, then, you may leave." he told me coldly then turned.

I reached for him and gripped his coat irritatedly. I am trying to find and make up with Gianna. Why the hell this damned person preventing that to happen?! "You better give back my wife, you idiot."

"I'm not going to waste my precious time with you," he forced my hand to let him go. Tapos, inayos nya yung damit nya. "Do you want to know what happened after Gianna saw you with Gwen and lost her baby?" I just glared at him. This guy stole my Gianna. How can I sit back and watch him do all the action now? He raised his arms widely. "This happened. You broke her heart, she came with me. I supported her and protected her. Despite of that, she can still feel the pain that you gave to her. What did I do? I gave her courage. She listened to me. What happened to the pain that she felt? That pain gave her strength. She's stronger and more gorgeous than ever. She now stands on her own feet. She's perfect. It's all thanks to you."

"Would you want to meet her? Ok." he added. I gripped my phone tightly that I might break it. "But, can you look at the face of the person that was almost dead after you did those things to her?" he headed to the door. "Tell me, Nathan. How could you break Gianna's heart?" he asked then finally, he left.

I stood there, still hearing all the things Sam said. How could I do those things to Gianna? I don't know! I don't know what happened to me. It pains me so much. Siguro nakapag-move on na si

Gianna. Pero, ba't ako, hindi ko magawa? There's a hole in my heart that I know will never be filled if Gianna won't come back to me. And the issue about Gwen? I don't know how I got her pregnant. I don't even remember if we did it or what. But, I remember how I met her again.

I was having a meeting with someone that time. Pagkatapos nung meeting, dumating sa office nung ka-meeting ko yung anak nya. And he was with Gwen. To show that I have moved on, I greeted her like an old friend. What's wrong with that? I'm not faking. I'm in love with my wife and theres nothing could go wrong anymore. How wrong I was.

Gwen and her new boyfriend invited me go out later that night. Wanting to make a good impression to the father of Gwen's boyfriend, I agreed. All I remember now was Gwen forcing me to drink something. Then, the next morning, I woke up in her condo.

Now that I think about it, it was partly Gwen's fault. But, I can't entirely blame her. Because it wasn't her fault that Gianna doesn't want to come with me that time. Kung sanang si Sam yung sumunod sa kanya, baka di yun nangyari.

Should I look for Gianna? What if she hates me so much? I can't bear looking at her eyes that's looking at me without love. Dammit, why do I have to be in this situation?

A knock on the door brought me back to my senses. I sighed. There's no point in sulking about the past. If Gianna doesn't want me to find her, I won't. So, I guess, bahala na business partner kong makipag-deal sa Lopez Group.

** *Gianna's POV*

I knocked on the door of the meeting room. I have to talk to Sam about her mom's request. Tama ba kasing iwan yung cellphone? Yan tuloy. Instead na bibili akong maiinom ko, hinahanap ko sya.

I knocked again. Pero nung walang sumasagot, napabuntong hininga nalang ako. I was about to turn the door knob and open the door when a voice behind me made me jump.

"Are you looking for Sir Luke, Miss Chloe?" asked Ryan.

Si Ryan naman, nanggugulat. XD "Ah, yes. Have you seen him?"

Ryan nodded. "Ah, yes, Miss Chloe. He's in his office."

I frowned. "I thought he's meeting Mr. Miguel?" I asked while pointing at the meeting room.

"I suppose it's finished. I saw Sir Luke heading back to his office a while ago."

I nodded. "Ah. I see. Thanks, Ryan." I told him. Tapos naglakad na ako palayo. Langyang Sam yun. Namamagod. Ang layo palang ng meeting room sa office nya. Tss. Makabili na muna ngang maiinom sa cafe sa may tapat nitong building bago umakyat ulit.

Pagdating ko sa may cafe, I immediately placed my order at the counter. Di pa kasi rush hour so konti palang yung tao. Pero pag natiyempuhan mo? Ay nako. Matinding tiyaga.

"Is there anything else you would like to add, Ma'am?" tanong ng cashier.

I shook my head. "No, thanks. That would be all."

"That would be $11.00, Ma'am."

I nodded and gave her $20. It's cheap enough here in New York. Pero kung coconvert mo sa peso, ang mahal na no? Wala eh. Mahal sa ibang bansa eh. Haha.

She gave me my change then, after a few minutes of standing by the counter, nakuha ko na yung strawberry smoothie ko. Yum. Nyahaha.

Saktong paglabas ko ng cafe nung naramdaman kong nag-vibrate yung phone ko. Tuloy-tuloy sya so, may nag-call sa akin. Haha.

I took my phone out while drinking my smoothie. Si Sam lang pala tumatawag. Lalaking to talaga. Wanted nanaman siguro ako sa office nya. Hehe.

"Bakeeet?" sabi ko agad. Hahaha.

"Nasaan ka, tart? Sabi ni Ryan, hinahanap mo ako. Di ka na lumitaw."

"Relax. Yung puso mo. Haha." I giggled. Sam talaga. Miss na ako agad. Chos. Lol. xD "Bumili lang ako ng smoothie. Ayoko ng utusan kanina si Ryan kasi busy sya at may paa naman ako. Pabalik na ako."

"O sige. Dalian mo at uuwi na tayo." he told me.

"Ha? Bakit?"

"Tumawag si mama eh. Pinapauwi na ako. Miss ka na. Haha."

"Ay oo nga pala. Tumawag nga pala kanina si Tita Samantha kaya hinahanap kita."

"Nakausap ko na." he said. "Dalian mo nalang ha?"

I chuckled. Di naman excited eh no? "Oo na. Sige na."

"Dali! Haha. Tirhan mo ako nyan."

"Asa! Bumili ka! Yaman yaman mo loks."

"Yihh. Dalian mo nalang."

"Oo na nga sabi. Haha. O sya na. Bye." I told him then ended the call.

Wala paring pinagbago si Sam eh no. Isip bata at matakaw pa rin. Haha.

"Nathan!"

I froze halfway crossing the road when I heard that name. As usual, I felt my heart race. I slowly turned around and saw...

a guy calling for his friend.

Oh, what the fudge. I hate those moments! Tss.

I just shook my head and continued walking while looking at them. Common name ba ang Nathan? Peste naman o.

I glared at them and glanced forward. And before I knew it, I bumped into someone! Oh, fuuuudge!

I stared into my wet and sticky shirt. Fuuuuu. I can't believe that this is happening!

I bit my lower lip and sighed in frustration. At wala pa talaga akong naririnig na 'sorry'?! I glanced up to shout at the person and tell him that he should be aware of where he's walking at! But, instead, all the words I want to say where replaced by 'huh??

What is he doing here? How come he's here? Is he really here? Oh, my God. HOW COME NATHAN IS STANDING IN FRONT OF ME?!?!?! ASDKFHJDSDFKJSDFGKGASHJSFS! FUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!

"G-Gi..." he muttered.

At once, all the memories flooded my mind. The happy memories and fun times. Until it was replaced by the painful and effing sad memories.

I don't know but, I JUST FOUND MYSELF YELLING AT HIM. "HEY! WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING HERE?! ARE YOU STALKING ME?! AREN'T YOU HAPPY ENOUGH TO WHAT HAPPENED LAST TIME?! ARE YOU HERE TO RUIN MY LIFE AGAIN?! REALLY, NATHAN. WALA KA BANG MAGAWA SA BUHAY MO NA MATINO?!?!"

But, he just stared surprised at me. With matching open mouth pa. Pardon me and I might look a bit crazy but, that made me crack up. O_O

"Shet, ba't ganyan mukha mo!? HAHAHAHAHAHA!"

At once, he closed his mouth and smiled. At that moment, I remembered everything again. So, I immediately changed my expression into a poker face.

"What the heck are you smiling at?! Look at my shirt!"

"Ahh.. Ehh.."

"Stop gapping at me! Do something!!" Grr. That stupid strawberry smoothie. Ba't di kasi umiwas nung nabunggo ko si Nathan?!?!

"Err."

"NATHANIEL MARTY MIGUEL, STOP STARING AND DO SOMETHING BEFORE I PUNCH YOUR PRETTY FACE!"

Upon hearing his full name, parang bigla syang nagising. "I-- Uhm-- Uh-- Ano-- I-ibibili nalang kitang damit! T-tara n-na!"

Ooh. He's stammering. Guilty ka, dre?

Before I can say something he pulled my hand and hailed a cab. While he's doing that, I can't help but stare at our hands and remember how warm his hand is.

**

Pilit kong sinasara yung pants na sinusubukan ko pero ayaw sumara. Oh, no. Tumataba ata aketch. Tsk tsk. Ba't ba kasi ang sarap magluto ni Tita Samantha. Kaya siguro ang taba ni Sam dati.

"Kasya mo?" tanong ni Nathan sa may labas ng dressing room.

Seriously. Ba't napasali nanaman tong lalaking to sa buhay ko? Geeez. Tsk. O, Gianna Chloe. Wag bitter. Nakapag-move on ka na. Tandaan mo, Gianna Chloe Dizon, NAG-MOVE ON KA NA. Wala ka ng pakielam kay Nathan. Inhale-exhale ka nalang. Di mo na mahal yang gag*ng. Keri mo na yan.

...

Pero, Angel. Tulungan mo akong wag mapatay ang tatay mo. Ayokong magkasala.

"Masikip." I told him.

"Ang liit naman kasi ng waistline ng kinuha mo. Asaan na yan. Try mo to." he said.

I frowned but decided to take off the pants. Tapos tinanggal ko sa pagkakalock yung stall ko para kunin ko yung pants. Pero, muntik akong atakihin sa ginawa ni Nathan.

Pumasok ba naman sa stall!?!? Taena, wala akong pants na suot!!!

"Shet! What are you doing here?!?!? Get out!!!" I screamed. What the fudge! Is he crazy?! Anong iniisip nya nyan?! WTFFFF!!!

"I'll help you on trying these pants," he said like it was the most obvious answer. The hell?! "Tagal mo eh. Baka kailangan mo ng tulong."

"What the-- GET OUT YOU EFFING PERVERT!!!" sigaw ko ulit sa kanya habang pilit syang pinapalabas.

"Relax, Gi. I already saw everything in you."

"Shut up!!!"

"And marry me again?"

"Get out!"

"Oh, come on."

"Pervert!"

"I've still got our rings."

"Yiiiiih!" I muffled a scream and took the pants he was holding and forced myself to wear it fast. But, what-the-fudge-oh-my-freaking-gosh. Ito yung kaninang di ko masuot eh!!

"Yung kanina yan eh." Nathan commented.

Oh, haha. I NOTICED. =____=

"I. KNOW." I gritted my teeth between words, "Why don't you get the hell out?"

"Feeling ko kasi talaga kailangan mo ng tulong." he smirked and showed those effing dimples that I effing love. Oh, what the-- "And, like I said. Don't worry. Didn't I rip your clothes before?"

Yeah. Talk about the past, you goddamned idiot. =_____=""" Fudge you, goddamned bastard. FUDGE. YOU.

"Shut up!"

Sasagot sana sya nung biglang may kumatok sa pintuan ng stall. "Excuse me, Ma'am, Sir. Is there something wrong?"

Oh! Chance! "This pervert forced himself to enter here!"

"I understand, Ma'am. Now, Sir, please kindly step out of the stall or we will use force." said the person on the other side of the door.

Nathan touched the tip of my nose first then opened the door wide enough for him to go out but not enough for me to get exposed. "I think there's a mistake, Ma'am." he said. Uhmm.. Huh? "You see, she's my wife and she's mad at me because I accidentally threw her smoothie."

What... the... fudge?

"Excuse me, Ma'am." tawag ulit nung kausap ni Nathan. "Is he saying the truth?"

"Of course not! That guy is crazy!" I called back. Asa ka pa Nathan! Nyahahaha! >:D

"Uhh, ok. My wife is still mad at me." Nathan chuckled. "See here, Ma'am. Our wedding picture. And here's her ring."

Wedding picture??? RING?????

"Oh, I see. Forgive me for being rude, Sir." sabi bigla nung tao. Oh no! "I hope you to guys make up. And, please, Ma'am, stop shouting at this poor, handsome husband of yours. He really looks so sweet. I'm sorry again, Sir. Please do enjoy your shopping."

"Yeah. Thanks, Ma'am!" said Nathan.

What the hell. =___= Oh, no! Papasok nanaman sya!

I locked the door fast before he can even open it. "Huh! Asa ka pa!"

"Ok. Hanggang mamaya ka dyan. Bahala ka."

Ha? I stared at the pants I was holding. Oo nga pala. =___= I removed the look and glared at him when he entered the stall.

"Turn around and don't peek." I growled at him. Nakakainis sya!

"What's the point? May salamin din naman dito." he smirked at me.

I facepalmed myself and took the pants from his hands. I withdraw. I admit defeat. Bahala na syang titigan lahat. Di naman nya makukuha! MWAHAHAHA!

"Great legs." he said.

I just growled. Oh, how I hate that stupid strawberry smoothie. =__________=

Chapter 47: If only.

*Nathan's POV*

A second chance doesn't always mean a happy ending. Sometimes, it's just a chance to end things right for the both of you this time around.

Paulit-ulit kong naaalala yung sinabi nung babae sa kaibigan nya.

I stared gloomily at Gianna's back ahead of me. This is second chance, right? Fate is giving me another chance to... to what? For us to be together again? Or to end things right and part ways again? Ugh. I don't even want to think about it.

Drop everything now. Meet me in the pouring rain. Kiss me on the side walk, take away the pain.

Gianna took her phone out. I smiled. Di man nya pinalitan caller tone nya?

"Oh. Hello, Sam." she said. I felt my smile change into a grimace. "I'm with Nathan."

Di man lang sya bitter sa akin? Tss.

"Yes. Nathan." ulit niya sa pangalan ko. "Natamaan nya kasi yung smoothie ko kaya nabasa damit ko."

Di ata makapaniwala si Sam? Akala siguro maayos na kami ni Gi. I wish.

Gianna laughed. Ano kaya pinag-uusapan nila. Tss. "Alangan naman mag-dive ako dun sa fountain. Sa condo mo nalang ako maliligo."

Condo ni Sam!? Dun sya maliligo!? Oh, heck! "No!"

"Huh?" Gianna glanced at me. Sht. Napasigaw pala ako. "Anong 'no'? Napapano ka nanaman?"

Umiwas ako ng tingin. Pero, di naman tama na maligo sya sa condo ng lalaki! "M-maliligo ka sa condo ni Sam?"

"Oo. Kontra ka?" she raised her eyebrows. Damn! Why do you have to look gorgeous even in that bewildered look?! "Teka lang, Sammy. Magkakaliwanagan lang muna kami nitong lalaking to. Wait nalang kita dito sa may labas ng mall." she ended the call and glared at me.

"So," she started. "What were you saying?"

I tried to look at her eyes but failed. This is awkward and annoying. Why does it seems that I don't have an effect on her anymore? Dati, titigan ko lang sya, mamumula na. "Uhh. It's not right to be alone with a guy."

"Excuse me!? Who are you to tell that to me?"

Uhm... Your husband? "Concerned citizen?"

"Oh, shut up."

"Kayo ba?"

"Pake mo."

"I'm sorry."

"It's fine. Just stop nagging me." she rolled her eyes and started walking towards the exit of the mall.

But, that wasn't I meant. "Gi." I reached for her hand.

She sighed. "What?"

"I'm sorry." I repeated. "I really am. If only I have been more honest, maybe we're still together. If only I didn't ran after you causing you to runaway from me, we would still have our child. If only I realized earlier how I love you, I would marry you because of it. If only I didn't accept the deal, it wouldn't look like I just used you. If only--"

"Stop it." she told me. Then, she gently pulled her hand. "Don't think that because I've been so casual to you, I have forgiven you. You know what? If only I met Sam before I agreed to that effing contract, I would fall for him. If only I didn't lose our baby and found out about you and Gwen, I wouldn't hate you. If only I could turn back time, I will never fall in love with you."

I stared at her expressionless face. Tapos, napapikit nalang ako. That's what I was scared to see. Her eyes looking at me without love.

I opened my eyes and realized that she was staring at me. "What?"

Lumingon muna sya sa parating na kotse bago nagsalita. "You're still like a family, though. Don't be a stranger. Bye."

She headed to the car as Sam step out of it so he could open the door for her. But before entering the car, Sam said something to Gianna that made her laugh and hug him tight.

If only she met Sam before signing the contract, huh? Looks like they're together now, though.

**

I took off my coat then threw it at the laundry basket then pressed the voice message of my phone. Patay sindi kasi. Meaning, may tumawag kanina.

"Hello, Nathan." Oh. Tumawag pala si lolo eh. "How was the business proposal? I just want to remind you that we already partnered with the Lopez Group before. If that helps, congrats."

Oh, hell. Nakipag-deal na nga pala si lolo sa tatay ni Sam dati! Ba't ba nalimutan ko? Mas focus kasi ako sa Asia eh.

I decided to take a bath first. While I'm at it, I can't help but remember Gi. What if madulas sya paglabas nya ng CR? Eh di tutulungan sya ni Sam?! Eh kaya lang, pano nun yun!? Nakatakip lang si Gi ng tuwalya?! Pano kung matanggal yun?! Tangna. Baka matempt yung gag*ng Sam na yun! Tangna talaga. Kahit sinong makakita sa katawan ni Gi, magnanasa eh! Ang ganda ng katawan ni Gi! Lalo na ngayon. Kaninang nagbibihis palang sya, naaalala ko nung kami pa...

Sht!

Tinodo ko yung malamig na tubig galing sa shower. Ako ata yung matetempt eh. Hindi si Sam.

I sighed. Then, I ended my bath. Siguro kailangan ko na magmove on. But, atleast, let me work with Gianna one last time. Even if she'll work with me as Chloe, that would be just fine.

Paglabas ko ng banyo, saktong nag-beep yung voice message ko. Di ko naabutan yung tawag. Pero, sino naman kaya tong tumatawag?

"Nathan," I sighed when I recognized Gwen's voice. "Would you want a garden wedding or church wedding? And, when will you call me? I can't reach your phone. Call me."

I sighed again. I shouldn't have signed that annulment paper.

**

*Sam's POV*

I stared at Gianna's face. Simula nakita nya si Nathan at dumating kami dito sa condo, nanahimik na sya.

"Best?" I called.

"Hm?"

"Tahimik mo?"

"Ah. Wala lang."

I sighed then headed to the kitchen to drink.

"Let's get married."

I choked myself with the water causing me to cough many times. "You kidding?!"

She laughed out loud but I just stared at her. "Kind of?" she said.

Seriously? Marry her? Marry Gianna? Are you kidding me? Eh di parang nanalo ako sa lotto ng maraming maraming beses pag nangyari yun!

"Don't joke around, Gi." I told her. "Because I might just do that."

She glanced at me and I stared at her seriously. "I don't want to let Nathan ruin what I did for myself."

I clasped her face with my hands then kissed the top of her head. "I don't want to see tears of pain coming from your eyes." If only I can make sure that you will never cry because of sadness again.

She sighed. "Thanks, best."

I grinned at her. "I'll marry you if you can at least forgive Nathan and show him that you already have moved on."

"But I have."

"Prove it, sweetheart." I smiled at her then, patted her cheek.

"How?"

I grinned at her. Dapat hindi ko ibibigay sa kanya tong project no to. But, everything has a purpose. "Nathan called while you were taking a bath." I told her.

"He called? Why?"

"We made a contract. You'll design the school they'll be building. I want you to personally deal with it. Not as Chloe. But as Gianna." I held her hand and squeezed it gently. "After this, if you want me to marry you for real, then, I will."

She frowned at me. I traced it with the tip of my hands. I hope you've moved on, Gi. "Are you serious? I was just joking, best. I don't want to take away the chance of you falling in love."

I smiled widely at her. How can I not fall for her? "But, I am in love."

"See? If you marry me, you won't have a chance with that girl."

"She's giving me the chance. But, I want to know if she really moved on." I smiled at her.

Napatitig sya sa akin. "You're kidding."

"Huh?"

"You're in love with me! Hahaha!"

I felt my stomach flip. Di ako prepared! XD "You took long enough to realize it."

"I'm dumb before." she chuckled.

I felt tingling sensations in my stomach. Ganto ba pag kinikilig? XD Walangya. I'm like, 22. Pero parang teen ager parin ako pag dating kay Gi. XD "And that's what I love about you."

Tumawa lang sya kaya napatawa narin lang ako.

"If this project ends great, we'll do anything you want." I winked at her.

"I say, go get a wedding planner." she grinned. "Because we'll be marrying each other."

I pinched the tip of her nose. Babaeng to. Pinapakilig ako. Mehe. XD "So, do I get the beneficits of a boyfriend? Wait. I think it's 'fiance,' right? Haha."

"Can you hear me complaining?" Gianna grinned.

I took her hand and played with it. "I do want to do it. But," I kissed her hand gently. "Let's not rush it."

She smiled and kissed me on the cheeks.

**

*Gianna's POV*

I was serious when I asked Sam to marry me. And I didn't expect him to agree. But, there's a catch: I must prove that I don't have feelings with Nathan.

I felt my heart clench. Damn! Kayang-kaya nya na sirain lahat ng ginawa ko. I won't let that happen. I don't want to fall for his stupid charm again. And if Sam helped me before, I'm sure he can make me fall for him. And if I want to fall again, I want to fall for Sam.

I sighed. If only I can teach my heart.

Chapter 47.5: If only. *Gwen's POV*

*Gwen's POV*

I sighed as I stare at Nathan and Gianna's wedding picture. It's so funny. Ikakasal kami ni Nathan pero iba yung nasa puso at isip nya.

I feel guilty.

It's just; I never want to ruin someone's life because I know how it feels like when your life is ruined. I know how painful it is to lose someone you love.

Let me introduce myself. I'm Gwen Steff Mendoza. 22 years old. The one you guys hate the most. And...

A product of a stupid, broken family.

Heck, because of it, I learned how to use people. And, you guessed right. One of them was Nathan. Alam mo yung pakiramdam na wala ka ng pakielam sa ibang tao, mabuhay ka lang ng

maayos? Ganon ginawa ko. I used Nathan and cheated on him with his "friend." But, you know what? If only I wasn't blinded by that so-called love, baka akin parin si Nathan.

Yes. I was blinded. I saw all the things I want to see in a guy with Jeff. Only to realize later that Nathan was the one who truly cared for me. How? Because that effing Jeff just used me to get what he wants. And, what a fool I have been because I gave everything I had. After realizing that he doesn't really care for me, it's too late to go back to Nathan.

I heard a merry laugh just outside Nathan's room. Kaya naman lumabas na ako. My heart clenched when I saw my child. How can I let my child be a product of a broken family too? How can I let him have a father who doesn't care about us? How can I protect him?

Call me a bitch, slut or what but I don't care. I know only Nathan can love him truly. Because that's the kind of person he is. He's the only person I can trust. Hindi yung walangyang ex ko na nagawa pang ipalaglag yung unang anak namin. Tell me, how can I let him hurt our child again? I don't know what to do at that time. Wala akong matatakbuhan. That's when I met Nathan again. At that moment, I decided. Nathan will be my child's father.

So, I invited him for a drink, drugged him and pretended that something happened. When he woke up, I was naked in his arms. It was too late when I learned that he was married. Gianna

already lost the child and left Nathan. It was hell for me and Nathan that time. Kasi alam ko kung gaano kasakit mawalan ng anak. Alam ko yung pakiramdam na parang ginago ka lang. Yung parang ginamit ka lang. Kasi alam kong ganun ang pakiramdam ni Gianna. Akala nya ginamit lang sya. Pero ang di nya alam, minahal talaga sya.

I'm jealous of her. She has friends, family and Nathan. Everyone loves her. Unlike me. I'm being hated. Even by my own family. Only Nathan loved me truly. Maybe that's the reason why I just can't give him up now and tell the truth. Kasi takot akong mawala yung nag-iisang nagpapakita ng pagpapahalaga sa akin. Yes, I'm desperate.

How can I not be? Walang nagpakita ng pagmamahal sa akin! Sarili kong magulang, pilit akong inaayawan! Lumaki ako sa bahay na puro sigaw, away, mura, gulo at sakit. Alam mo ba yung pakiramdam na yung gigising sayo sa umaga eh yung away ng parents mo? Yung pagkatapos kang bigyan ng pera, bahala ka na? Yung kahit magpakagaga ka, wala silang pakielam? Yung kahit hiwalay na sila, walang nagbalak kumupkop sayo? Ganon yung buhay ko bago ko nakilala si Nathan. Ganon na ganon.

Kaya lang eh, ang gaga ko. Iniwan ko si Nathan. Akala ko may babalikan ako kung sakali. Yun pala, wala. Kasi minahal na nya asawa nya.

"Mama, why aw you cwaying?" Daniel suddenly said when he came to me. Then, he wiped my tears. Di ko pala namalayan na umiiyak na ako.

I smiled at him. If only I can protect him on my own. But maybe, I am protecting him in my own way. "It's nothing, baby. Just promise me. You have to be a good person like daddy."

He smiled at me widely that almost made me cry out. I won't let anybody hurt my innocent angel. "Yes, mama. I will because I lab daddy!"

I nodded and kissed his forehead. It's impossible but, if only I had the chance to start again, I will. If only I can turn back time where I meddled in Nathan's life, I won't interfere in his life.

But, now? I just can't give up. I just have to continue and hope for the best. And, for that, I'm sorry Nathan and Gianna. I really am sorry for all those things that I have done.

Chapter 48: Still Gianna.

*Nathan's POV*

I saw Gianna standing by her car when a sudden thought striked me. I smirked and came over at her.

"Hello, ugly stick." I greeted then touched the tip of her nose. "You're early."

She stared at me like I was crazy. "Excuse me?"

"Ugly stick?" I repeated uncertainly. Oh, no. Baka sapakin ako! Parang tama ng arrow ni Cupid yung mga sapak nitong babaeng to eh. Lalong lumalakas ang tama ko sa kanya bawat sapak sa akin. Mehe.

Oo na! Ako ng di nakapag-move on! Sya ng nakalimot! Ako ng parang teen ager na babae dahil one sided love ako! Ako na! AKO NAAAAA!

"Come again?" sabi nya habang naniningkit yung mata nya. Hala ka Nathan. Ginalit mo si Gi!

"Ah... Eh..." I faked a smile while looking out for her hand. Seriously. Baka masapak ako ng babaeng to sa harap ng condo building ko. Kilala pa naman ako ng mga employees dito. "I meant, hello, gorgeous!"

"Buti ng nagkakalinawan." she nodded. Then, she started to walk ahead of me so I followed her. "Uhm.. Wait. Why are we having a meeting in your condo?"

Napakamot ako ng batok. Ba't yung Gianna dati, di matanong? "Well, it's like my office."

She just shrugged. "Lead the way,"

I nodded. "Let me." I told her then gestured at the blueprints and her bag.

"Ok." she answered then dumped her things on me.

"Umph." I was knocked breathless for a while when her bag hitted my stomach. Oh no! Nawawala na yung Gianna ko! Sino ba yung clone na yun? Parang hindi si Gianna! Eh dati, magte-thank you sya eh! Ngayon. basta-basta nalang ibibigay. Mananakit pa! TT~TT

"Take care of that. Those bags have two laptops and they both contain all my projects and designs." paalala nya sa akin.

Di nalang ako sumagot. Ok, ok. Medyo inalipin nya ako. Di tulad ng dati, but, I can't help but smile. Because this is Gianna. The one who can fill the whole in my chest. And even if it's just for a while, let my life be whole.

Pagsakay namin ng elevator, pinakatitigan ko sya. Tapos nung napansin nyang nakatitig ako, pinagtaasan nya ako ng kilay. Sungit ni mahal. *pout*

"Let me remind you, Nathan," she started. "When I work, I don't want anyone rushing me. Let me work at my own pace." I nodded. She continued. "And, dapat, may cake. Yung--"

Let me guess. "Chocolate?"

"How did you know?" she frowned.

"Well..."

"Anyway," she interrupted. Tama yan, mahal. Wag mo akong patapusin pag nagsasalita. =_____= "And, this is the first time that I wouldn't be working at Sam's office. So kung may kaweirduhan akong ginagawa tulad ng pakikipag-usap sa sarili ko at pangungulit sayo, wag mo akong pakielaman. Dahil yun yung ginagawa ko sa office ni Sammy."

Sam. Sammy. Samuel. Puro naman Sam to. Pwede bang ako naman??? Hello! Ako yata yung pinakamamahal mo. Dati nga lang.

Pagdating namin sa floor ko, pinauna ko na si Gi. Gentleman ata ako. Hehe.

"Fairy lights?" she frowned when we entered my condo. "It looks gay. Dapat sa kwarto mo ilagay. That's common sense."

Na-critic agad yung living room ng condo ko? Grabe naman tong mahal ko. And di ba nya pansin, katulad ng kwarto nya sa bahay yung living room ko? Kaya nga may fairy lights kasi may ganun kwarto nya. Hay.

"San ka pala galing kaninang nakita mo ako?" she asked.

Binaba ko muna yung gamit nya sa working table na pina-prepare ko para sa kanya. "I went to see the structures you designed." I answered. "They're great."

"I've been told." she shrugged. Aw. Ba't dati, ang saya nya pag pinupuri ko sya? :< "Why don't you sit down? We'll be doing something."

"Some... thing?"

"Ano ba sinabi ko?"

"What something?"

"I'm going to ask you questions." she scowled at me. "Ano sa tingin mo, milagro?"

Pwedeng-pwede din.

"I'm going to ask about the details of the school I'm designing." she told me.

Aw. Akala ko milagro. </3

"Well," I started. Then, I took a deep breath to calm myself. Kasi, actually, medyo kinakabahan ako. "It's not really a school. Our clients want the children to learn while having fun. It's more like a nursery."

She nodded. "I see."

"When can you finish it?" I asked. Pwede next 100 years?

"By tomorrow or the next day."

Aw? Ba't ang bilis? "Will that be enough? Ok lang kahit matagal-tagal ka."

Gianna smiled at me and made my heart flip. Ba't parang after all these years, mas napamahal sya sa akin? "Oh. Don't get me wrong, Nathan. I'll only work here today. Tomorrow, sa office na ulit ni Sam."

"Huh? Why?"

"I only went here so I can make the draft of the project. Pag nakuha ko na, sa office na ako magtatrabaho."

I sighed. Akala ko makakasama ko na si Gianna kahit mga ilang araw lang. I guess I can't push my luck any further than this. "Ok."

She didn't answer. Instead, she stood up and reached for her bag. From it, she produced drawing materials and other things only an architect knows. Malay ko ba kung ano mga yun. Ruler at pencil lang ata alam ko sa mga yun eh.

Then, she took her throne behind her working table. I stayed at my place and watched her. She changed a lot. From the way she talks and walks to the way she dressed. Dati, pag nagsasalita, medyo soft and minsan, nakakatawa yung pinagsasabi nya. Ngayon, may authority na. Tapos pag naglalakad sya dati, parang may hinahabol lang. Ngayon, naka chin up pa sya and mukhang confident. And the way she dressed? Dati, parang teen ager na lalabas lang eh. Ngayon, parang model na. Solid lang. Grabe.

Fortunately (or unfortunately?), I still found her gorgeous and all. Parang wala mang nagbago nung nakita ko sya ulit. It's like, even though she changed a lot, she's still the one who made me feel important. The one who helped me reconcile with lolo. The one who was so sweet and kind to me, no matter how I tease her. Andun pa rin yung feeling na yun eh. Hindi nawala. Ni hindi man nabawasan eh.

I stood up and headed to the kitchen. Then, in-on ko yung heater ng tubig. Tapos, I prepared two mugs for our chocolate. Gi loves chocolate so I might as well give her her favorite while I can.

"Nathan."

I turned around and saw Gianna standing behind me while staring at her draft paper. "Bakit?"

"I'm done."

Ang bilis?! "Already?"

"I already drafted it last night. Sinabi naman sa akin ni Sam yung mga pinapagawa mo eh." she told me. "Dito ko lang tinapos para maipakita ko na rin sayo o kung may gusto kong padagdag o pabawas."

Eh di sya ng mabilis gumawa. I came over to her to see the draft. I frowned when I saw it. May kulang. "Walang playground."

"Should put a playground?"

I came closer to her while trying not to stick my face on her neck just to inhale her. Instead, tinuro ko sa draft paper kung saan ko gusto mapwesto yung playground.

"I think dapat may playground. So the kids can play and have fun there." I glanced down at her. "Don't you think that the kids should enjoy their childhood?"

"Are you sure?" she asked. She glanced up to me. When our eyes met, all I could do was stare to hers. They're the attractive color of brown. And now, they look unsure and scared. I don't know why. Then, my gaze went to her lips. Her ever attractive lips. I wonder if they taste the same. Or they'll taste much better than before?

I can feel my heart jumping around my chest. And swoosh, it fell into my stomach when I saw her lips part a bit.

And like in a trance, our face were just inches away from each other when--

Beeeeeeeeeeep!

"Oh, shit." she cursed with wide eyes.

I felt like I was slapped awake when the heater timer beeped. But, before I can say something, lumayo na si Gi and bumalik sa living room.

Inhale.

Exhale.

Inhale.

OH, FUDGE, I ALMOST KISSED HER.

Nasampal ko yung dalawang kamay ko sa mukha ko. Ba't ba kasi umepal pa yung heater ng tubig? Kung hindi sya umepal, yun na, di ba?

But, wait. Does this mean my chance pa ako? *u*

Hmmm.

Napatalon ako ng marealize kong hinihimas ko yung baba ko na parang nakikipaglaban sa chess. Ano ba yan. Baka tubuan ako ng balbas ng wala sa oras kakahimas.

Pero, hmmm. Pano kaya kung natuloy yun? I'll probably faint.

Joke!

Kikiligin lang. Hehe.

**

I followed Gianna with my eyes as she walk around the living room. Magmula nung mangyari yung you know incident, nagkaganito na to. Di man nga pinansin yung ginawa kong chocolate. Eh yung ngang akin, ubos na eh. Ano nanaman kaya prinoproblema ni pinakamamahal ko?

"Gi, relax." I told her. "Ano bang prinoproblema mo?"

Napakamot nalang sya ng ulo sa... inis? "Yung playground."

"What about it? Lagyan mong slides and swings."

She clossed her eyes and pinched the bridge of her nose. "You don't understand, Nathan. It's not that easy."

"How come?"

She sighed in exaspiration. "I can't just put slides and swings, Nathan. I have to think about this kids. I have to make sure they'll be safe while having fun. I have to make sure there will be a smile in they're face whenever they play at the playground. I have to make sure they're protected while happy. I have to think about them."

"Of course you have to think about those things." I said. "What exactly is the problem?"

Napatayo na ako sa kinauupuan ko nung napahilamos na sya ng mukha gamit yung kamay nya dahil sa inis.

"This!" she groaned. "It's a torture, Nathan. I don't want to feel what a mother should feel. I don't want to have any reason to be angry with God because He took my Angel."

Napayuko ako at napabuntong hininga sa sinabi nya.

I took her hand. "Gi." I started. Then, I pushed some strands of her hair behind her ear. "I'm sorry I took away the chance of you being a mother. I'm sorry I ruined everything we have. I'm sorry. I just am. Kung kaya ko lang talaga, babaguhin kop yung mga nangyari. Itatama ko sila. But I can't. All I could do now is apologize and hope that, somehow, you'll forgive me."

She flinched a little. "I can forgive, Nathan. But not totally forgive. Maybe we should start again. I can never erase you in my life. After all, I've been with you since the day we lost our parents."

I smiled at her. "Anything, Gi."

She just smiles back then pulled her hand. Tapos, bumalik na sya sa pag-iisip tungkol sa playground.

I stayed and watched her. What I did to her was unforgivable. But, I guess, somewhere in her heart, even if it's not stong enough, she loves me. And, maybe, she can still start a new with me because she never really changed despite of her outside changes, because she's Gianna, she's still Gianna and she will always be Gianna.

Chapter 49: Rewrite the story.

"What's wrong?"

Sam was staring at me when I glanced at him.

I smiled and shook my head. "Wala." I told him. Tapos, pinanood ko na ulit yung dinadaanan namin.

Nothing's wrong. Really. It's just, I was just thinking about Nathan. He's sincere when he apologized to me. I can see it in his eyes. But, if he really didn't want to hurt me, then, why did he cheat on me? And, what happened to us earlier? We almost kissed! Wag dapat ako masyadong lumalapit sa kanya.

"Natapos mo trabaho mo?" tanong ulit ni Sam.

"No."

"Want to eat dinner?"

"I'm not hungry."

"Do you wanna go home?"

I sighed. "Sure."

I know I'm being rude to Sam. Kaya lang, wala talaga akong gana. I just wanna go home to relax...

And to think.

Sam just reached for my hand then squeezed it gently. I turned and gave him a smile before I watch outside again.

We were just quiet for the rest of the ride which was fine by me. Pagdating namin sa harap ng building ng condo ko, agad bumaba si Sam para pagbuksan ako ng pinto. Pagbaba ko ng sasakyan, agad kinuha ni Sam yung gamit ko tapos naglakad na kami papasok ng building.

"Hatid na kita hanggang sa floor mo, you want?" he asked when we reached the elevator.

I reached for my things and smiled at him. "I'm alright. You go home and take a rest. Mas pagod ka pa sa akin eh."

Sam smiled at me. "I'm ok."

"Ay basta." I rolled my eyes. May pagka-stubborn din tong lalaking to eh. "Go home and take a rest."

"As you wish." he grinned at me.

I raised my left eyebrow and stared at him. "Layas na. Dali."

"Hintayin na kitang sumakay ng elevator."

"Wag na. Una ka na."

"Sakay ka na muna."

I stared at him then sighed. Napailing nalang ako. "Well then, goodnight."

He reached for my hand and kissed it. "Goodnight, princess."

I smiled at him then entered the elevator. When the doors closed, I sighed. Sam is a gentleman. He's sweet and kind. Anyone can love him. But I think...

That can't be me.

**

Drop everything now. Meet me in the pouring rain. Kiss me on the side walk, take away the pain.

I took my phone and answered the call. "Hello?"

"Bakla!!!"

"Bakla? Ashley?"

"Siney pa ba sa tingin mo itech?"

I laughed out loud. Tapos, sumandal ako sa sandalan ng swivelling chair ko. "Napatawag ka?"

"Ay, grabe teh! May bago akong fafable na classmate!" tili naman ni Ashley.

Napailing naman ako. "Puro lalake nanaman inaatupag mo. Kumusta na sina Des? Kelan ba kasi kayo papasyal dito?"

"Hay bakla. Pano naman, napakalonely ang mag-isa! Dapat pala agad aketch nagshift ng course. Anyway, highway, di pa ako sure kelan. At wag mong itanong sa akin si Des dahil pupunta sya over there." sagot naman ni Ashley.

I raised my left eyebrow in amusement. "Sya ba yung tinutukoy ni Sam na bagong architect?"

"Korek ka dyan, bakla!"

I smiled. Matagal-tagal ko na rin di nakakasama si Des. Excited na ako!

I was about to answer Ashley back when a knock took my attention. Si Ryan siguro to. Kasi di naman kumakatok si Sam pag papasok sa office nya. Office nya nga kasi, di ba?

"Ah, Ash, I'll call you later, ok?" I told Ashley. "Bye."

"Ashley, bakla! Ashley!" sita naman nya kaya natawa nalang ako. "Babush na sige. Later, ha?"

"Ok." I answered then hung up.

Nung may kumatok ulit, sumagot na ako. "Come in."

Medyo nagtataka lang ako. Dati kasi, kakatok lang si Ryan tapos papasok na.

Napatayo ako nung may sumilip na di ko kilala. "May I help you?"

"Flowers, Ma'am." answered the person.

"Flowers?" takang tanong ko. Nagulat nalang ako nung may pumasok na walong tao na may dala-dalang iba't ibang klaseng mga bulaklak. Panghuli si Ryan na may dalang white roses. "What are those for?"

"Uhm. It's from..." said Ryan then opened the card he was holding. "From Mr. Nathaniel Miguel."

"From who?"

"Mr. Nathaniel Miguel." Ryan repeated.

I just frowned and watched them arrange the flowers. Tapos, nagpaalam na sila pagkatapos.

I took my phone and went over to the flowers to watch. There are not just flowers. They're FLOWERS. As in, they're in a big basket, looking fresh and all. In a matter of moments, the room was filled with their smell.

I reached for a card that was hidden by the basket of rose flowers when I saw it. Upon touching it, I dialed Nathan's number also.

"Ano nanamang pakana mo, ha, Nathan?" tanong ko agad pagsagot nya sa phone nya.

May binabalak nanaman tong lalaking to eh. Sigurado yun. Ba't sya magpapadala ng mga bulaklak kung wala?

"Have you read the card?" he asked.

I scowled and opened the card.

Harry was in love with Ginny. All was well.

Bella was Edward's life. They loved each other forever.

Lindy loved Kyle even when he's cursed and his outside appearance was distorted. Love was never ugly.

Romeo and Juliet died together. Love can be tragic but true.

They're all great stories. But do you know what could be the best story for me?

It's when we still love each other even if we both have black, grey and white hairs. It's when we will remind each other to drink our medicines. It's when we will reminisce the past and remind ourselves that we have been loving each other for many years. It's when we look at our kids and tells them lessons about life and how not to play with love. It's when we hold hands while watching TV, kiss each other when we want to and hug each other to remind that we're here for each other. It's when I love you and you love me, too. It's when I grow old with you.

That, for me, will be the best story I will hope to experience and see.

Can we just start all over again?

Napaupo ako pagkatapos kong basahin yung card. I don't know what to feel and think. I just can't find myself right now after reading Nathan's note.

"What do you mean 'all over again'?" I asked while trying to sound annoyed.

"I mean it." sagot naman ni Nathan. "Let's start all over again. No more secrets, no more contracts. Just you and me, trying to be happy."

"Nathan, please." I said exasperatedly. "Wala akong time makipaglokohan. I have my own life to live."

"I told you. I'm serious."

"Whatever, Nathan."

"Let's have a dinner later."

"Nathan." I groaned. Really. I can't even with this guy. Argh!

"I'll pick you up at 7:30 PM." he just said. "See you later, gorgeous." then, he hung up.

I facepalmed myself in annoyance. Start all over again? Is he crazy? What about his child with Gwen? What about Gwen? Is he messing up with me again? I already forgave him but I didn't expect him to do this kind of thing.

I tried to call Nathan but, he didn't answer. In annoyance, I threw my phone on my bag. Bahala sya. Hindi ako magdidinner kasama sya.

Napasandal nalang ako sa upuan ko. Seriously? Grow old with me? Start all over again? I'd love to do that! But, I'm not crazy. May anak si Nathan kay Gwen. Who knows what happened to them. And I'm not desperate and insane to ruin a family.

Wait. Scratch that. I am not even considering starting with Nathan again. I've work hard to stand on my own again. I've work hard to forget the pain. If anyone deserves to receive my love back, it's Sam. Because he was the one who helped and supported me. He did everything he could for me. He was the one who spent sleepless nights when I'm sick. The one who tried to understand my lessons to help me on my studies. The one who made me smile when I was depressed. Sam deserves to be rewarded by me.

But, could I reward him when I don't even love him romantically? Sam doesn't deserve to be loved by me. He's too sweet, nice and kind. He deserves to be loved deeply.

Hay. What am I supposed to do? Kanina pa parang nag-aaway utak ko!

I stood up and reached for my bag. Then, I wrote a note for Sam, telling him that I'll go shopping. Pag kasi sinabi kong masama pakiramdam ko, mag-aalala yun. Tapos, as if naman na sasabihing kong nalilito ako. Lalong mag-aalala yung lalaking yun.

Paglabas ko ng office, hinabilin ko kay Ryan yung note. Tapos, lumabas na ako ng building. Baka sakaling tumino utak ko pag naligo ako ulit at natulog.

**

Drop everything now. Meet me in the pouring rain. Kiss me on the side walk, take away the pain.

I woke up with a start when I heard my ringing phone. I reached for it groggily. Natutulog yung tao eh. Tss.

"'lo." I greeted whoever was calling. "Who's this?"

"Beautiful evening, gorgeous." the familiar voice of Nathan answered. "The stars aren't out and it's a bit cold but it won't stop me for treating you a dinner. Nasa baba ako."

I groaned and stood up. Ang sarap ng tulog ko eh. "I never said that I'll have dinner with you."

"I know. I brought foods."

I opened my window and peeked below. Sure, Nathan's car was parked just below. Medyo nakikita ko pa nga syang nakasandal kasi di naman masyado mataas tong unit ko.

"Go home, Nathan." I told him.

"Not until you meet me."

"I won't meet you. Go home."

"I'll wait." he told me.

I sighed. "Go home." I told him firmly then hung up.

**

It's passed midnight.

And Nathan's still waits for me below.

Seriously! Pati ako napupuyat dahil sa lalaking to. Wala ba syang kailangan gawin at may oras pa sya para maghintay sa akin?

I reached for my blanket and hid under it. Mahirap ng kulang ako sa tulog. Wala akong magagawang matino sa trabaho.

I forced myself to clear my mind. Kaya lang, di ko magawa kasi iniisip ko si Nathan na naghihintay parin sa baba. Ba't ba kasi ang kulit nya? Di pa ba sya masaya kasi maayos na kami? Ba't ginugulo nya parin buhay ko? Di ba nya nakikitang masaya na ako?

Masaya nga ba ako? Sure. I'm happy. Pero, may mga oras parin na naaalala ko yung nakaraan. Lalo na pag tahimik yung paligid ko at nag-iisa ako. There were even times where I found myself laughing or smiling whenever I remember how Nathan and I try to annoy each other. I couldn't even help but wonder what would have happened if nothing bad happened between us.

Sometimes, I hate Nathan. Sometimes, I love him. There were times where I wish I could be with him again. But, there were also times where I just despise him for causing our child, breaking my heart and ruining our marriage.

Argh! I just don't know what to think! Ba't ba nagulo nanaman buhay ko simula nung bumalik si Nathan dito? Ba't ba napagtripan ako ng fate? Di pa ba sya kuntento sa sakit na naranasan ko dati? Ba't kailangan pang ibalik si Nathan sa buhay ko? Gulong-gulo na ako! Ayoko ng ganito.

Gusto ko nalang tumakas ulit. Pero, gusto ko ring subukang pagbigyan si Nathan. Kaya lang, ayoko ng masaktan ng dahil sa kanya. Kasi baka pag nasaktan nanaman nya ako, di ko na alam kung pano ibabangon yung sarili ko. Si Sam lang naman yung tumulong sa akin dati. Pero, iba na ngayon. Pag pinili ko si Nathan, masasaktan si Sam. Hindi namang tama na bumalik ako kay Sam kung masaktan man ako ni Nathan. Hindi deserve ni Sam yung ganun. Sam deserves to be loved by someone who deserves him.

Should I let Nathan enter my life again? Or should I just rewrite my story where I choose Sam over Nathan? Can't I just have a normal lovestory?

**

"Whoa." I heard Sam exclaimed when he entered his office. "Where did these flowers came from? Kahapon pa may flowers pero mukhang nadagdagan. May namatay ba?"

"They're from Nathan." I told him then reached for the draft of the playground. "Sam, look at the draft."

Pumunta muna si Sam sa table nya para ibaba yung dala nya. Tapos, lumipat sya sa tabi ko at tinignan yung gawa ko.

"Are you sure these materials are safe, Miss Chloe?" he asked.

I cracked a smile. "I am, Sir."

"Well then, its approved." he winked at me.

Natawa nalang ako at mahinang tinulak si Sam. Nakasumpong nanaman ang kabaliwan nito.

Sam just grinned and pinched my cheeks gently. Tapos, bumalik na sya sa table nya at binuksan yung laptop nya.

Drop everything now. Meet me in the pouring rain. Kiss me on the side walk, take away the pain.

I reached for my phone and answered it.

"Hello?"

"Hi, gorgeous."

Napapikit nalang ako at marahas na napahinga nung narinig ko yung boses ni Nathan. "You're annoying."

"At least because of it, you think of me." sagot naman nya.

I saw Sam look at me. I mouthed Nathan's name.

"Ihahatid nalang dyan yung draft. Wag ka ngang makulit." I told him, then, I ended the call.

Napasandal nalang ako at napamasahe ng sentido. Nathan sure is stressing me out.

"You look tired." Sam commented.

I just smiled at him. "Napuyat lang. Dagdag pa kakulitan ni Nathan."

"I suggest you should go home and relax."

"I'm fine, Sam."

"I insist, Gi." he told me. "Tapos na naman trabaho mo and wala ka namang paperworks na gagawin. Mag-undertime ka na."

"Wow naman. Boss ko mismo nag-uutos na mag-undertime ako." I laughed. "O sige na nga. Uuwi na ako. Bye."

"Bye." he grinned.

I grinned back then took my bag. Before leaving the room, I smiled at Sam.

Siguro nga kailangan ko lang ng pahinga. Uuwi nalang ako.

As I walk, Sam's employees greeted me. O di ba. Ang babait lang.

Pero pagdating ko sa parking lot, ang smile ko, napalitan ng simangot.

"What are you doing here?" I groaned at Nathan who was leaning on his car.

"Oh. I was about to pick the draft up." he answered.

"Nasa taas. Hawak ni Sam." I told him. Then, I headed to my car.

"Gi--"

"Hear me out and hear me clear, Nathan." I told him before entering my car. "I forgave you but that doesn't mean you can do anything you want with me. I have my own life and I don't need you to complicate it again."

Before he can even answer, I entered my car and locked the doors. I started the engine while ignoring Nathan's call and before he can even stop me, I drove away. I don't need Nathan to ruin what I did for myself.

**

I was watching the falling rain when my phone rang.

Again.

I ignored it when I saw Nathan's name. Bahala sya sa buhay nya.

I decided to play xBox to pass the time. May pagka-isip bata ho kasi ako kaya bumili akong ganito.

I chose to play Tennis using the controller. Nakakatamad lang kasing magpakapagod sa Kinect.

It was dark outside when I saw an unfamiliar number calling me on my phone.

"Hello?" I answered the call.

"G-Gi..."

My annoyance turned to worry when I heard Nathan's teeth chatter. "Napano ka?"

"Nasa b-baba ako."

"What!? Are you crazy?!" I yelled at him. Ano nanaman bang pumasok sa isip nito at naghintay sa baba kahit umuulan?!

"I was waiting f-for you."

"You idiot. Dapat umuwi ka nalang!"

"I was s-sincere everything I t-told you. I just want t-to prove i-it."

I groaned. "Pumasok ka muna dito. Ihahabilin kita sa baba."

"O-ok." then, he hung up.

Next thing I did was to call the receptionist. Hinabilin ko na papasukin si Nathan.

Habang hinihintay ko si Nathan, inayos at tinabi ko na gamit ko. Tapos hinanda ko na yung tuwalya at mainit na tubig. Pero habang ginagawa ko yun, iniisip ko kung magiging madugo ba tong gabi na to. I hope I can rewrite my story and not fall for him again.

Chapter 50: Love and Life.

"Thanks."

Napatingin ako kay Nathan nung nagsalita sya.

"Ayoko namang magmukha akong may sakit ng loob sayo." I told him then focused on the soup I was cooking. "Sino ba naman kasing baliw na maghihintay magdamag sa labas? Ay oo nga pala. Ikaw."

Nathan chuckled. "I told you. I won't leave until I met you."

I gave him an unbelieving look. "Wushu. Di man kita nadatnan kaninang umaga sa labas."

"Ah." Nathan nodded. "That. Nagutom ako eh."

Natawa nalang ako at napailing. "Whatever, Nathan."

He just smirked at me. Then, he leaned at the counter. "So, how come you have this kind of clothes?" he asked. I shrugged. "Sam owns that."

"He what?!"

"Don't freak out." I grimaced at him. Tama bang sumigaw? "They're new. Nandyan lang yan in case of emergency at kelangan nya ng malinis na damit."

"Pumupunta si Sam dito?"

"Natural! Anong gusto mo? Sa baba lang sya?"

"Pwede din."

"Idiot."

"Hey!" he exclaimed.

I just ignored him and prepared the soup, rice and beef steak that I had earlier for him to eat.

Paglapag ko ng pagkain ni Nathan sa mesa, iniwan ko na sya. Magkukulong na lang ako sa kwarto ko. Pinapasok, pinapaligo, pinahiram ng damit at pinakain ko na sya. Pwede na yon, no?

Pagpasok ko ng kwarto ko, agad nangamoy pagkain. Tsk. Amoy pagkain ako. Makaligo nga muna.

I headed to my bathroom. Pagpasok ko, nagtanggal ako agad ng damit at naligo sa shower.

While taking a bath, I can't help but think of Nathan. Di ko sya maintindihan. Totoo ba talaga yung effort na pinapakita nya sa akin? Talaga bang gusto nyang bumalik kami sa dati? Di ba nya naisip yung anak nila ni Gwen?

Hay ewan. Bahala na sya.

Due to the cold weather, I decided not to prolong my stay under the shower. Matutulog nalang akong maaga. Bahala na si Nathan ng magfeeling at home. Haha.

So, I stepped out of the shower and reached my towel to dry myself. Tapos, lumabas na akong banyo nung ma-cover ko na sarili ko sa towel.

It was when I was choosing what to wear on my wardrobe when the door bursted open and Nathan entered my room.

"Gi, pahiram naman ng iPad-- mo..."

My eyes widened in surprise.

"I--" he looked at me confusedly. It was then that I realized that I was only covered with towel.

"What are you doing!? Get out!" I yelled at him. I can suddenly feel the beating of my heart. I can even hear my fast breathing. I feel like I ran for a very long time!

Argh! Seriously! Anong pumasok sa isip nito at bigla nalang pumasok sa kwarto ko!?

"I didn't know..." he said.

I just closed my eyes and pinched the bridge of my nose in frustration. "I don't care! Just get-get out!"

When I heard the door close, I opened my eyes and tried to calm myself.

Relax, Gi. Wala syang nakita. Ganyan na yan dati pa, di ba? Bigla nalang papasok sa kwarto mo. Relax lang. Inhale, exhale lang. Relax.

Inhale.

Exha-- "Aaaahh!" And, before I can stop myself, I slipped because of the water that was dripping for my hair.

"Aish." I groaned painfully. Haller! Masakit madulas! Ang sakit ng balakang ko. Shet. T~T

The door suddenly bursted open. "What happened?!" Nathan came to me panickedly. "Are you ok?"

I bit my lip as I try to feel how painful my waist is. So far, di sya masyado masakit. Kaya ko pa naman tumayo. "I'm ok."

"Let me help you." he told me. Then, before I can protest, he scooped me up and brought me to my bed. Pagkababa nya sa akin sa kama ko, agad syang pumunta sa wardrobe ko.

"What are you doing?" I asked suspiciously, trying to ignore the fact that only the towel protects my body and thanking God because after all that happened, hindi natatanggal sa pagkabalot sa katawan ko ang tuwalya.

"Ikukuha kitang damit." he answered. "Baka kasi magahasa kita tulad nung dati."

I felt my face go hot. "Shut up."

He just chuckled but I tried to hide my red face behind my hair.

"Mahilig ka parin sa patterned na underwears." I heard him comment.

Whaaaat?

"Hey!" sita ko sa kanya nung pinakakatitigan nya mga underwears ko. Shet sya! Nakakahiya lang! >_< "Dalhan mo nalang akong damit!"

"Alin dito? Yung heart yung pattern? Star? Moon? May plain din pala." he said.

Eeeeehh! "Kahit ano! Dali na! Bwisit ka!" Ano bang masama kung ganyan mga underwears ko? Ang cute kaya! Ba't ba napagtripan nya pa underwears ko?! Ba't ba kasi tatanga-tanga ako at nadulas eh. -.-

"Ito nalang heart. Eh damit? Short and shirt ba? Ay eto. Naaalala ko tong shirt na to. Sinuot mo to nung minsang nag-mall tayo eh."

"Pake ko! Dali na! Sexual harassment ka na eh!"

"Uy, hindi ah. Namimili nga akong isusuot mo eh."

"Eeeeh! Ano ba!" I groaned then climbed out of the bed and came over at him.

He chuckled when I snatched my underwear and clothes. "Chill, Gi."

"Chill, chill." I grumbled irritatedly then headed to the bathroom. "Chillchillin ko mukha mo eh."

Paglabas ko ng banyo pagkatapos kong magbihis, nadatnan kong nanunuod sa TV si Nathan sa kwarto ko.

"Ba't di ka nalang manuod sa labas?" sita ko.

He grinned at me. "Lonely dun. Buti pa dito. May kama pa." he told me then, he climbed on my bed!

"Oi! Ano ginagawa mo?!" I groaned. Ano nanaman ba balak nito? -.-

"Wala pa akong matinong tulog eh." he said. "Pahiga naman sa kama mo."

Lumapit ako sa kanya at nagpameywang. "Kasalanan ko ba kung wala ka pang maayos na tulog? Sino bang nagsabing maghintay ka sa baba?"

"Puso ko." he answered then hugged my pillow.

Medyo napaatras ako sa sinabi nya. Shet. Ba't parang tumalon yung puso ko? Ayoko ng ganto. I am not falling for him again.

"Higa ka na rin, gorgeous." he said cheerfully. "...wife." I heard him mumble but, I acted like I didn't.

I just sighed and shook my head. Tapos, umakyat na ako sa kama, naglagay ng maraming unan sa pagitan namin at sumandal sa headrest para makapanuod.

From my peripheral view, I saw him smile and close his eyes. Moments later, he was breathing deeply.

I glanced and stared at Nathan. Now that he's sleeping, he looks more relax. Maybe he's really tired. Kasi ang bilis nyang nakatulog. While watching him, tears started to appear from my eyes. I just can't stop them. They just came out while I was watching Nathan. Maybe because no matter how I deny it, no matter how I ignore it and try not to think about it, I've missed him. I've missed him so much.

My heart clenched when I reached and traced his eyebrows. Why am I like this? Why am I crying? Am I crying because of pain or happiness? Have I really forgotten my feelings for Nathan? Or were they just hidden deep in my heart, waiting for Nathan to reach for them?

Maybe I'm crying because of pain and happiness. I'm happy because Nathan is here in front of me and it's painful because, no matter how hard I try, things won't be the same as before. There's too much to risk now. And if I try to risk it and lose, I may not be able to stand again. I may end up hating Nathan and love. I just can't bear thinking that love and the one I love made me hate them. I just can't hate something pure and miraculous as love. I just can't hate the one I love.

I reached and kissed Nathan's forehead. Unconsciously, things became much clearer. I still love this handsome idiot and it's painful because if I choose him, I'll hurt Sam. And if I lose, I don't know what life holds for me ahead of it.

I don't want to hurt Sam. He gave me life. But, could I not choose Nathan who was the one who made me live? Oh, I'm so confused. How can love be so cruel? Why do I still love Nathan even if he hurted me? Why can't I just love Sam who deserves to be rewarded by my love? How can love be so blind?

**

"Good morning, gorgeous. Don't you need to work?"

I groggily opened my right eye and saw Nathan. I must be dreaming. Pano mapupunta dito si Nathan? I just closed my eye and made a grab for my pillow.

At first, I was ignoring the fact that my pillow feels warm, long and comfortable. But when I heard a small chuckle, dun na ako nagtaka.

I forced my eyes to open. Nabigla nalang ako nung nadatnan ko si Nathan na nakangiti at nakatingin sa akin habang nakayakap ako sa kanya.

...

What the fudge...

...

"What the hell are you doing?!" sigaw ko sa kanya pagkatapos kong mapaupo.

Umupo din sya bago nagsalita. "You're the one who grabbed me." he said defensively.

Huh? I'm the one who grabbed him?! Are you kidding me?! "What nonsense are you talking about?!"

"Ginigising kaya kita kaya lang bigla mo akong yinakap."

My face went red. Akala ko nananaginip lang ako kanina. Totoo pala! Ugh.

"You're blushing." he commented.

Lalo pang parang bumigat at uminit yung mukha ko. I just glared at him then climbed out of bed.

"Get out. Maliligo ako." I told him then entered the bathroom.

Agad akong humarap sa salamin pagkasarado ko ng pinto. Ugh. I'm still blushing. Pasalamat sya at naamin ko sa sarili ko na mahal ko sya. Kung hindi, bugbog sarado sya.

Naghilamos muna ako ng mukha tapos nagtoothbrush. Tapos, nagtanggal na akong damit at tumapat sa shower para maligo.

Ang hirap din ata ng kalagayan ko. Mahal ko nga sya pero di ko magawang umasa hangga't di nalilinawan ang lahat. At isa pa, ayokong saktan agad si Sam. Pero, magagawa ko ba yun? Yung sundin yung puso ko pero hindi ko nasasaktan si Sam? Hay, ewan. Bahala na. Di ko alam kung anong nangyari dati at di ko alam kung anong gagawin ngayon. Di ko alam kung bakit di parin malinaw sa akin yung ginawa ni Nathan dati. Haaay.

Pagkatapos ko maligo, sinilip ko muna kung nasa kwarto ko si Nathan. Nung di ko sya nakita, agad na akong namili ng damit at nagbihis. Delikado na. Baka bigla nanamang pumasok yun sa kwarto ko.

When I came out of my room, smell of coffee greeted me.

"Ready for some breakfast?" Nathan called behind the counter.

I frowned. "Marunong ka ng magluto?"

"Syempre." he said then laid a plate containing scrambled eggs and bacons. "I had to feed myself for four years."

Four years? "What about..." Gwen?

"What about what?" he asked. Then, he came over and guided me to the table. "Adobo specialty ko eh. Pagluto kita minsan."

I just nodded and stared at the scrambled eggs and bacons in amazement. Hindi sila sunog! Grabe.

Pinaupo nya na ako tapos, nilagyan nya ng tinapay, bacon at scrambled egg yung plato ko. Habang kumakain ako, pinapanuod nya lang ako.

I stared at him questioningly. "Di ka kakain?"

He shook his head and smiled. I just shrugged and continued eating.

"I made you chocolate." he told me.

I swallowed the piece I was eating. "Really? Nasaan?"

Tumayo sya tapos pumunta sa may ref at binuksan to. Tapos may inabot syang baso na may lamang chocolate drink. I forced myself not to smile. Baka mahalata ako eh.

"Ba't nasa ref?" I asked instead.

"Pinalamig ko." he said then pinatong nya sa mesa.

I reached and tasted it. It's good! But, I didn't tell him. Baka mag-assume eh.

While eating, I can't help but think that maybe, leaving Nathan once made him more mature and independent. At least maymaganda rin naman palang kinalabasan yung paghihiwalay namin.

**

"I told you Nathan. Ayoko." I said firmly. Nasa tapat kami ngayon ng kotse ko.

"Sige na, Gi. I need to present the draft you made." he insisted.

I rolled my eyes. Kanina pa namin pinag-aawayan kung sasabay ba sya sa akin sa kotse ko o hindi. At ang gusto nya, sumabay sa akin. Nasaan ang kotse nya? Ayun. Di nya mabuksan dahil naiwan sa loob ang susi. Nasa condo pa daw nya ang spare key at kailangan nya ng pumunta sa office at i-present ang draft ko.

"Please, Gi? For old time's sake?" he pleaded.

I took one glance on his pleading eyes and groaned. "Fine." I snorted. "FINE! Sakay!"

He grinned then entered the car. Napabuntong-hininga nalang ako tapos sumakay na din. Bago ako magdrive, nagtext na ako kay Sam at sinabing malelate ako.

"Dali na." he insisted.

I scowled at him. Kapal lang ah. "Oo na." sabi ko nalang tapos nagdrive na.

Hindi ko sya kinausap. Hinayaan ko lang syang ituro yung daan. Pagdating namin sa tapat ng building, hinintay ko syang bumaba. But, he just frowned at me.

"What?" sita ko.

"Come with me."

"Huh? Why?"

"I thought you'll be the one explaining the design? Well, come on."

"No way!"

"Come on. You're the one who understands it the most." he told me.

I just groaned. Tapos, bumaba na ako ng sasakyan. Paglapit ko sa kanya, agad nyang kinuha yung susi ng kotse ko tapos binigay sa isang lalaki.

"Sino yun?" I asked.

"Assistant ko." he answered then, he pulled me inside the building.

Pagsakay namin ng elevator, galaw sya ng galaw. Uupo sya, no. Ta's biglang tatayo at lilipat ng pwesto. Ta's uupo nanaman. Ang gulo nya lang.

"Relax." I told him.

"I'm not nervous."

"Weh."

"Oo nga. Kaya lang iniisip ko kung ok na sila sa design mo." he stared at me. "Not that I don't trust you. But, they just think that you're a newbie in this kind of job."

I grinned at him when we reached the floor we're going. "Let's impress them."

He smiled and took my hand. Together, we stepped out of the elevator and entered a room.

Pagkapasok namin, nanahimik na yung mga nag-uusap at naka-set up na yung draft ko. Nathan guided us to the front then, he squeezed my hand.

"Ok, everybody. Thank you for attending our meeting today. This gorgeous lady here designed the draft for the new school. If you have any questions, ask her later." he announced.

"The stage is all yours." he whispered to me before taking his place.

I scowled surprisedly at him. This is not what I prepared for. But, he just nodded in encouragement. Having no choice, I faced my audience and smiled at them. "G-good morning, everyo--" I stammered.

"So, Miss Dizon," someone interrupted. I searched for the voice and found a middle aged man sternly watching me. Scary. "Would you please tell us why did you design your draft that way?"

I hissed to myself. So rude. "Well, excuse me, Mr. Whoever-you-are." binigay ko muna yung bag ko kay Nathan at humarap ulit sa kanila. I may be working with Nathan as Gianna but I do my works and presentation as Miss Chloe. I may have stammered earlier but that was because of shock being placed under the spotlight.

"Why did I design it like..." I pointed my draft. "this? Let me ask you, Mr. Director-of-I-don'tknow. Have you tried to think like a child at your age right now?" I asked. He stared at me with a poker face. Meaning: NO. "I did." I told them. "I tried to think like a child. As you see here," I pointed somewhere in my draft. "It looks like a gingerbread cottage. I made it colorful but not so colorful. Why is it like that? Because kids love things that are cheerful and colorful. They hate boring things because they're easily distracted. I made it look more like a gingerbread cottage extracted from a story book than a school."

They just watched me in silence so I continued. "If you notice, the designs of the walls are doodles. Kids love doodling. I achieved two goals in this design. First, I helped the children's imagination to widen. Second, if a child tried to write and make some doodles on the wall, it won't look bad or out of place because it's also surrounded by doodles."

I saw Nathan smile and nod but I ignored him. I phased back and front while explaining. "I designed this kind of design because I think, the best way to teach children is when they're having fun learning. And when I said fun, I really mean the fun that you get when you're playing. It's not good for a child to forget the fun of actually playing outside under the sun. There, they actually learn lessons on how to deal all kinds of people. And if ever they tripped and fell or just accidently got hurt, they'll know they need to stand up again and ignore the pain. Because, that's what life is. It isn't always happy and satisfying because, sometimes, you need to get hurt to learn."

From my peripheral vision, I saw Nathan giving me a thumb up and winking at me. Kaya naman napangiti ako. Pero, nagpatuloy din lang ako. Nakikinig naman sila eh. "Now. About the playground. I bet you all noticed that the swings, see-saw, slides and other things were designed like they were made from woods. And if you're asking me why is that, the answer is, I dunno."

I shrugged and chuckled. "It just gives me an impression that you're safe and you're in a fairytale. Maybe I want to tell them that, once in a while, their ordinary life turns into a fairytale and gives them happy endings."

After saying my speech, I just smiled at them. At first, they were just watching me. Then suddenly, Mr. Director-of-I-don't-know smiled at me.

"It seems like you enjoyed your childhood and you become a mother." Mr. Director-of-I-don'tknow smiled.

A mother? I smiled bitterly. "I had once the chance to see my child experience these things but..." I took a deep breath to control my feelings. "I lose it."

But, before anyone can say something, Nathan started to talk. "She's a great person. You can trust her design. Children should enjoy their childhood. And whilst at it, they should also be safe. Children easily learn if studying is also playing. Don't you think it's satisfying to see a child laughing and learning at the same time? Children doesn't only need to study. They also need to have fun. But, even if they're having fun, they should also know how to deal with life and reality. And that's where the concept of Miss Gianna's playground enters."

I saw some people nod. Siguro naman, tapos na role ko dito no? Pwede na siguro akong lumayas no?

I smiled at them. "So, people, I think my job here is done. May I head now to my work?" lumapit ako kay Nathan para kunin yung bag ko.

"But--" he started.

I silenced him with my look. It's already hard enough when I told them why I designed the draft like that. Buti nalang nga nadala at medyo nainis ako kay Mr. Director-of-I-don't-know kaya tuloy-tuloy ako sa pag-explain.

Pagkakuha ko sa gamit ko, ngumiti muna ako sa kanila at lumapit na sa pinto. Pero di nakatakas sa pandinig ko yung tanong ng isa sa mga kasama ni Nathan.

"Even though I've been working for years, this is the first time I've seen you talking about kids so endearingly and gentle. Excuse me for asking but, is it true that you're married and a father?" it asked.

A father. I smiled bitterly at myself and reached for the doorknob.

"I was once married." I stopped at my tracks when I heard him answer. "With the one I love. Maybe, you can call me a father but, the child who I really to be fathered with was gone."

"Do you mean you were once married and lost a child? But, how can you be a father if it's like that?"

I heard Nathan chuckle. Why can't I just leave and not listen to whatever he has to say? It's painful enough to remind that he's already a father of someone else's child.

"That's right." says Nathan. "Well, life is complicated."

I was about to look at him when I caught myself. There's no use looking back.

With all the will that I can master, I opened the door and left the room.

Love and life are different kind of things. Maybe, I just can't have them both. Life is too complicated. Love is too pure.

Chapter 51: Love is.

"Nathan wants to talk to you." I glanced up from my iPad and saw Sam watching me.

Binalik ko yung tingin ko sa nilalaro ko. "Bakit daw? I've done my part."

"Ewan lang."

"Baka gusto nanamang mangulit."

"Nililigawan ka?"

"Adik." I told him then glanced up again. "Won't you congratulate me?"

Sam grinned. "As a matter of fact, I'm inviting you to a dinner later."

"Magpopropose ka na? Hehe."

"Gusto mo?"

"Sira." I giggled. But when I noticed that the game I was playing was over, I can't help but groan. Isang oras ko na rin nilalaro yung Temple Run huh!

"Hersheys," Sam called and came over at me. "You promised that you'll work with Nathan as Gianna. But that doesn't mean you won't work with him professionally. Nathan is our client. You need to make sure that he is satisfied with everything until the project is done."

Pinakatitigan ko si Sam. He's right. I'm mixing my personal problems with work when that's the most tabooed thing when it comes to working.

I sighed defeatedly. Tapos binaba ko yung iPad ko sa table ko at tumayo. "Sorry." I told him then, I reached for his hand. "Hatid mo ako?"

Sam grinned at me then kissed my hand. "As you wish."

I squeezed his hand gently. Then, hand in hand, we made our way to where Nathan waits for me.

Pagdating namin sa meeting room, nadatnan kong nakikipagkwentuhan si Nathan kay Ryan. Nung nakita na ako ni Nathan, nginitian nya ako. But, I didn't return it. Instead, I faced Sam to thank him for coming here with me.

"Thanks." I smiled at him then pinched his cheek.

"I'll be at my office." he said then kissed me on my forehead.

I caught my breath to prevent tears escaping from my eyes. I can't choose love. I don't want to risk everything. I'm scared. I'm too scared to lose.

I cupped Sam's face with my hands and closed my eyes then, for the very first time, I kissed him on the lips.

In front of Nathan.

I ended the kiss when I heard something fall. Pagkatingin ko kay Sam, he looked shocked. Then, after a few seconds, he recovered and smiled at me. Then, he kissed my forehead again and headed outside.

"Is there something wrong, Mr. Nathan?" I heard Ryan asked.

I turned to face them and saw Nathan staring at me. It broke my heart when I saw hurt and dissapointment on his face. I was so tempted to reach and touch him. To tell him that that was nothing and I still love him.

But I can't.

Call me selfish, coward, evil, mean, flirt or what. I don't care. I just want to make Sam happy. Maybe, after few years, I'll be able to truly love him. After all, I was attracted to him.

But attraction is different from love.

God. I'm so messed up.

Nakitang kong yumuko si Ryan at may inabot. When I that it was a cellphone that he reached for, I frowned. The phone was wrecked. It isn't just a phone. It's a blackberry phone. Ba't parang nawasak?

"Mr. Miguel, is there something wrong?" tanong ulit ni Ryan.

Napalingon at parang nagising si Nathan. "Ha? Ah... W-wala." he said then reached for the wrecked phone.

"You accidentally stepped on it, sir." Ryan told him.

Tumango-tango nalang si Nathan tapos, wala syang imik na naglakad at lumabas.

I closed my eyes. He didn't even look at me after taking his phone. He just passed through me.

I swallowed the tears that were tempting to fall and opened my eyes. I frowned and forced a grin. "What's with him?"

Ryan just shrugged. I shook my head. Tapos lumabas narin lang ako.

I'm sorry, Nathan. I just don't want to complicate our lives again.

**

"Hi!" I greeted Sam when I found him waiting for me at the lobby of my condo building. "Matagal kang naghintay?"

"Nope. Maaga ka nga eh." he smiled and offered his hand. "Mas maaga lang ako."

I took his hand as he guides me to his car. Pagkasakay ko, may pinapatugtog na agad na song. It was Everything I Want. I kinda like this song kaya naman napapasabay ako sa pagkanta habang tinatawanan ni Sam. By the time na nakarating kami sa restaurant, umuulan na. Parang ang ganda palang ng panahon kanina ah. Nang-iinis lang? Ayaw akong pakantahin?

We stopped in front of restaurant's entrance. Tapos may sumalubong na doorman may hawak na malaking payong para ihatid kami sa loob.

Nung nakapasok na kami, agad may sumalubong sa aming babae.

"Do you have a reservation, sir?" she asked.

"Yes. A table for two? For Sam Lopez?" Sam said. I dunno but I found him funny. Pano kaya yung expression nya eh parang 'like, duh?' xD

The person nodded. "This way, please."

Sumunod naman kami. Pagdating namin ni Sam sa table namin, agad nyang hinila para sa akin yung upuan ko bago sya naupo. Oo na ho. Masyado ho syang gentleman. Pagkaguluhan nyo na ho sya dahil madalang nalang ho ang ganyan.

"The waiter-in-charge will be here in a moment." sabi sa amin nung babae bago umalis. Taray lang teh.

Pagkaalis ni ate, nagkatinginan nalang kami ni Sam bago natawa.

"Problema nun?" I giggled.

"Brokenhearted." Sam stagewhispered.

Nagkatawanan nalang kami ulit. Pinagtripan namin si ate. Haha.

Pagdating nung waiter, binati lang kami tapos agad inabot yung menu. Kaya lang, di pa man namin nabubukas yung menu, nag-ring yung phone ni Sam.

"Ah. I should take this." Sam frowned. "It's dad."

I nodded. "Go on."

Sam stood up then kissed me on my forehead and headed somewhere. Ako naman, nilibot ko nalang yung tingin ko sa loob ng restaurant. Now that Sam's gone, I have a time to think for a while.

And I hate it.

Pag may mga oras na wala akong ginagawa, naaalala ko lang yung nangyari kanina. Nasasaktan ako. Ayoko ng ganito. Alam ko kasalanan ko pero, masisisi mo ba ako? I have developed a tendency of running away from something that hurted me. And that happened when I lost everything back in the Philippines.

I sighed. Then I remembered. Tatawagan ko pa pala sina lolo Martin and tita Marian. Matagal ko na rin silang di nakakausap. Naiwan ko pa naman yung purse ko sa sasakyan.

I stood up. "Excuse me. I'll just go take my phone from the car. Can you just tell that to the person I am with?"

"Yes, ma'am." he smiled.

I smiled at him then headed to the door. Pagdating ko doon, agad akong sinalubong nung door man na may hawak na payong.

"Leaving already, ma'am?" he smiled and asked.

I shook my head. "I was just going to get my phone on the car."

"Let me come with you, ma'am."

At that moment, may pumasok na isang group.

"Oh." the doorman frowned. "I have to take their car on the carpark. Are you willing to wait for me, ma'am?"

I smiled and shook my head. "It's ok. Just lend me an umbrella."

"Are you sure?"

"Yep."

Tumango naman yung doorman tapos may inabot na payong sa may counter. Nginitian ko sya pagkabigay sa akin.

Paglabas ko, agad kong binuksan yung payong. Whew! Lakas ng ulan. Buti nalang malaki yung payong kaya di ako nababasa masyado.

Pagdating ko sa may carpark, medyo madilim kasi konti lang yung ilaw. Kaya naman nagulat nalang ako nung biglang may yumakap sa akin.

I stiffened. Who's this? Nathan? It can't be. Owemgee. Sino to??

"You forgot to take the car keys." said the familiar voice of Sam.

Nakahinga ako ng maluwag. Akala ko si...

"Ow. Sorry naman." natawa nalang ako. Silly me. As if naman na andito yun.

Sam closed the umbrella he was using then took and held mine. Together, we took my purse at his car.

Pagbalik namin sa loob, (medyo basa yung mga binti namin. o.O) nginitian ko yung doorman tapos binalik yung mga payong.

Habang papalapit kami ni Sam sa table namin, I can't help but sigh. Ba't ba hinahanap ko pa sya? Dapat hindi na, di ba? Binibigyan ko ngang chance si Sam di ba? Ba't nagkakaganito ako? Sinasaktan ko lang sarili ko eh. Ayoko ng umasa sa taong may ibang umaasa.

**

"Dito nalang. Thanks, Sam." I told Sam pagdating namin sa tapat ng elevator ng condo building ko. "I had a great time."

"Sure ka?"

"Yep. Habang di pa malakas ang ulan."

"Whatever you want, hon." he smiled then took my hand and kissed it. "I love you."

Napatigil ako. He told me he loves me. Why can't I say it back?

"You don't have to force yourself. I'll wait for the day you can tell that to me." Sam smiled and held my face.

I smiled and nodded. Sam just kissed my forehead then smiled and left.

I just stood there until Sam was gone. Then, after a moment, I went to the reception to lend an umbrella. Nung nakahiram na ako, lumabas ako ulit ng building para maglakad-lakad.

While walking under the rain, I suddenly remembered the time when Nathan proposed to me. Seems like it was just yesterday. I can still remember the taste of the ice cream where the ring was hidden. It was sweet, cold and yummy. The rain makes me feel so nostalgic. I sighed. I'll give anything to turn back time again.

I was standing and watching the falling rain when a cold, wet person hugged me from behind. Panic took me. I can feel goose bumps all over me. I became much more aware how cold and late it is. I should have gone straight to my condo. I shouldn't have wandered around under the rain. I shou--

"Why? Why, Gi? You broke my heart. Why?"

My panic turned to sadness when I heard Nathan's voice. I kept my mouth close.

"I love you. Why do you need to break my heart?" I felt his shoulder shake. Tears started forming in my eyes.

Why? Why are you here? Why are you shedding those tears for me? I don't deserve them.

"Aren't I good enough?" he sobbed.

I mustered all will that I can and broke off with him. Don't tempt me, Nathan. I'm playing safe here. I don't want to risk.

I continued walking while trying to suppress the tears from and worked hard not to look back. Because if I did, I'll end up running to him.

But all will was lost when he pulled me and owned my lips. I was trying to fight it. But, I just found myself kissing him back. I miss him. I want him.

I love him.

And it hurts.

My hands went up to his hair automatically. His hands were all at my waist, holding me near to him while we're kissing under the rain. The umbrella I was holding earlier had fallen somewhere. All I can think was longing. He sure is the only person who can make me feel this way. Sam can never make me feel this way.

Sam...

I pushed Nathan at the thought of Sam. I was supposed to forget Nathan. I was supposed to give Sam a chance. What am I doing?! I'm ruining everything!

Nathan started to reach for me again. I gasped and ran before he could even touch me. I can't let him touch me. I'll lose all my senses and come to him.

I was crying when I reached the condo building. Damn! I'm so confused. I just want to runaway from everything. I hate this kind of feeling. I don't want to hurt Sam.

Pagdating ko sa floor ko, I was wet as hell. But that bothered me. What bothered me was, Sam was sitting on the floor, waiting for me.

He smiled and stood up when he saw me. "You're hurting everyone."

Napatitig ako sa kanya. He came over to me and took off his coat and put it on my shoulder.

"You should follow your heart." he told me.

How could I follow my heart when doing that will break your heart? "But--"

"Trust me." he kissed my forehead. "I love you too much to see you living in hell. Don't think about my feelings. Think about your feelings."

I smiled bitterly. This is what I'm scared to see.

"Promise me, Gianna." he clasped my face between his hands. "You'll go after your happiness. That's when I love you the most."

I closed my eyes when I saw tears forming in Sam's eyes. Pati ako, naiyak na rin. I messed up everything.

"I won't let you go." he said. "How could I when you're not even mine?"

I opened my eyes and saw Sam's tears after so many years.

"Go back to Nathan. Live the life your heart wants." Sam told me. "Promise me. Make my sacrifice worth it."

I stared into Sam's eyes and nodded. He broke his heart for my happiness. I can't deceive anyone anymore. I should just follow what Sam and my heart says.

Sam smiled. "Can I... hug you?"

I nodded. The least that I can do.

Sam hugged me tightly. And when he cried, all I can do was stand there and hug him.

Love is pure and stained. It is both heaven and hell. It hurts and heals. It saves and kills. It can be tragic and true. For a while or forever. Love is both nothing and everything. It makes us weak and strong. It makes us hate. It makes us love. It is both good and evil. It is a sacrifice. It is also a thief and a gift. Love is death and life. A selfishness and selflessness. Reasonable yet unreasonable. Love can be defined by words but can only be felt. But that what love is.

And, Sam's love for me is a sacrificing one.

Chapter 52: Being weak.

*Sam's POV*

I felt my heart break when the umbrella fell and saw Gianna responding to Nathan's kiss. Even though I prepared for this moment, I can still my heart tear into tiny little pieces.

Call me crazy or martyr for letting them be together again but, I just couldn't bear seeing Gianna break her heart and pretend that she's happy with me. If I don't give them a chance and Gianna

ended up with me, we will never be truly happy. The choices were either hurting myself or hurting both of us. I just couldn't choose the latter. Because if I did, I would break all our hearts.

I sighed and gripped the umbrella I was holding. Without looking back to them, I went to Gianna's condo and sat at the floor, waiting for her. It's now or never. If I don't let her go, I'll be swallowed by selfishness again.

Yes, I was almost swallowed by my selfishness. I was tempted to grab the opportunity of making Gianna mine. After all, I'm not perfect.

I smiled and stood up when Gianna arrived. Here it goes. "You're hurting everyone." I told her. It's true. She's hurting Nathan, herself and I by running away from her feelings.

Lumapit ako sa kanya tapos tinanggal yung coat na suot ko. Then, I placed it on her shoulder to warm her. "You should follow your heart."

"But--"

"Trust me." I kissed her on her forehead. "I love you too much to see you living in hell. Don't think about my feelings. Think about your feelings."

She smiled bitterly at me.

"Promise me, Gianna." I clasped her face between my hands. I can feel myself weakening and wanting to cry. This is the first time I ever felt this feeling for anyone. I guess there will always be a first time for everything. "You'll go after your happiness. That's when I love you the m-most."

I just felt my tears glide on my cheeks as Gianna close her eyes and tears started gliding from them, too. It hurts. Letting her go hurts so much. I've loved her since we were kids but that is just not enough. It really is true that time can never indicate how much you love a person. She was only with Nathan for a short while but her feelings for him came back. Maybe, they didn't even go away.

I can't even let her go because she's not mine. "I won't let you go." I told her as tears continued to fall. It just hurts so much. This is silly. "How could I when you're not even mine?"

She opened her eyes but kept quiet. So I continued talking. "Go back to Nathan. Live the life that your heart wants." I'm itching to pull her. But, I can't. "Promise me. Make my sacrifice worth it."

She stared into my eyes. I was actually hoping that she won't let me make my sacrifice. A tiny bit of hope was inside me. But, it died when she nodded.

I just smiled bitterly. I'm trying to prevent myself from grabbing her. But, I just want to hug her. "Can I... hug you?"

When she nodded, I gave up. I reached and hug her tightly. For once, I want my feelings to get through her. Because, this is it. This is the last time I can show how much I love her.

My chest tightened as I cry. It hurts. It really hurts. I wish time would stop at this moment where she's here in my arms.

Gianna tightened her hug to me. I want to fight for her. I really do. But, fighting for her is hopeless. It isn't true that all is fair in love and war. How can it be fair when the one you're fighting for is already in love to the one you're fighting to?

It seems like forever when I got a hold at myself. But when I did, I just broke off with Gianna and started walking without looking back.

**

I stared into my room's ceiling as I ignore all the calls in my phone. I just woke up and it's already two in the afternoon.

When I reached home last night, I went straight to my bathroom to shower.

And to continue to cry.

Pain started to fill my chest again as I remember what happened last night. Deciding to ignore it, I stood up and headed to the bathroom to take a bath.

Supposedly, ngayon ang dating ni Des sa company. But, I quite couldn't find the energy to go to work. Bahala na si Ryan doon.

After taking a bath, I've decided to go to my mom's house for a change. Matagal na rin akong hindi nakakapasyal dun.

Wearing my casual clothes, I went to the garage and rode my car. Without hesitation, I started it and drove.

The traffic wasn't bad while I was on the road which was surprising. Usually, traffic ang mga daan dito. Pero, depende nalang talaga sa oras. Passing a store of Krispy Kreme, I decided to stop by and buy my mom her favorite donut. I parked my car on the parking lot of the store. When I stepped out of it, I noticed some costumers staring at me. If it's my face, my aura or what, I don't know. I just ignored them and entered the store.

Pagpasok ko sa loob, hindi naman masyado marami yung tao. So, I headed to the counter to order what I am here for. After placing my order, the cashier kindly asked me to take a seat first. After sitting near the door, I took out the picture of Gianna and I from my wallet. This picture was taken exactly when Gianna graduated then ran and hugged me. My chest tightened at the sight of her. But, when I heard a squeak somewhere, I looked up.

I turned around and noticed some people holding a magazine while staring at me. But what caught my eyes was the girl staring and hiding behind a magazine which was inside-out.

I scowled at her. I don't even know her but she's suspiciously gawking at me wide-eyed like I'm an alien.

"Excuse me?" I looked up and saw two girls; one brunette and one blonde, smiling at me.

"Yes?" I asked formally. Because, really, I'm not in the mood to entertain people.

"Aren't you Luke Lopez?" asked the blonde one.

"Yeah." So?

"OMG. You are just so great!" they giggled. But, I just stared at them. "Imagine, millionaire at the age of nineteen then became the CEO at the age of twenty!"

Tapos?

I shifted my eyes from the two admiring girls to the waiter going to my direction.

I stood up to meet the waiter when I heard the two girls giggle. I stared and frowned at them.

"Sorry." the brunette one said then giggled again. "It's just, gosh, you're so perfect."

I smirked when I noticed what they were wearing. Sleeveless shirts, mini-skirts and leather boots. Totally opposite of Gianna. "Sorry. I'm not into foreign girls who wear clothes like that when it's a cold day." I told them then passed between them and took my order to the waiter.

Without looking back, I left the store. Paglabas ko, halos may nakabanggaan akong babae.

"Sorry." she said.

I just shrugged. But when I heard the girl gasp, I looked down at her and saw familiar eyes that made me weak and want to cry again.

I'm staring to Gianna's eyes.

I was about to reach and touch her when she stepped backwards. Then, I realized, it wasn't even Gianna's eyes. It belongs to the girl who was gawking me earlier. This girl's eyes were in the light shade of brown. Whereas Gianna's eyes were the color of chocolate brown.

I just sighed and walked passed through the girl. I'm getting mad. I'm still comparing Gianna to other girls. How will I ever move on if I'm like that?

**

"Sammy."

I glanced to the direction where the voice came and saw my mom.

"What's wrong, hon?" she asked.

I just smiled and shook my head.

Mom took the seat beside me. "Tell me, dear. What's wrong?"

I glanced up and slowly pulled my mom into a hug. I'm tired. I'm so tired of my feelings. I'm tired of acting strong. "Can't I be a weak person once in a while?"

"Of course you can. You're just human."

I closed my eyes and started releasing control of my emotions. I really just want to cry. I want to be weak and let someone help me hold myself together. I'm tired of being strong.

"Mom." I muttered as I cry. "It hurts. It really goddamn hurts. Why love is so unfair? Why do I have to love someone who can't love me back? Why?"

But mom didn't answer. She just patted my shoulder and hugged me. But, that's exactly what I need. I don't need advices or assurance. I just want someone who will let me be weak.

When I think I cried my eyes out again, mom broke her hug to me and held my face.

"Are you ok?" she asked. Then, she chuckled. "Silly me. Of course you're not ok. But, remember this, my Sammy, being weak once in a while is fine. It just means that you've been strong for too long. People do get tired. We're not perfect. You're not perfect. No matter how handsome you are," she gave me a doubtful look that made me chuckle despite of my feelings. "No matter how intelligent and sweet and nice and kind you are, you're not perfect. You do have weaknesses. Ooh. Especially at Geometry and Chemistry."

"Moooom." I groaned but smiled slightly.

She just chuckled and pulled me back in a tight hug. "Stay here for a while. I'll cook all your favorites." she told me then messed my hair like I'm a kid. But, I didn't care. "Be weak for a while. Just don't be fat again. Nahh. I'm just kidding." she hugged me tightly before letting me go. "Just don't forget who you really are, love."

I smiled and nodded. I glad I went here.

Mom smiled at me then stood up and headed to the dining room. It feels like when I was a kid. When Gianna was comforting me. But this time, it's different. It's my mom who's comforting me. Maybe mom's right. Being weak is ok sometimes. It just means that you're human, that you're not perfect. But, after being weak, you should be stronger than before when you face the world. After all, everything happens for a reason.

Chapter 53: Never too late.

"Did Sam call you?" I asked Des.

Des shook her head. Napabuntong-hininga nalang ako at napamasahe ng sentido. Dalawang araw ko ng di ma-contact si Sam. Dalawang araw na rin yung lumipas nung magkausap kami. I can still remember how hard he cried on my shoulder. And that broke my heart. Life is really so unfair even to the ones who doesn't deserve it.

"He'll be fine, Gi." Des assured me. Kahapon pa dumating si Des dito. Pero dahil sa mga nangyari, di parin sila nagkakausap ni Sam. Kakatapos ko lang ikwento kay Des yung mga nangyari kanina lang. At kakatapos nya rin lang ikwento na break na sina Aaron at Denice.

Hay. Maybe some people aren't really meant to be together even though they're meant to fall in love.

Pinapanuod ko lang si Des nung biglang nagvibrate yung phone ko. I reached and snatched it from my table and saw a message from Sam. Finally! After 10 decades. He got me so worried.

From: Sam :)

You should go talk to Nathan right now. I heard he's sick. Don't worry about me. I'll just cool down for a bit. I'll contact you.

"But, when?" I groaned. For heaven's sake. I broke his heart! You can't blame me for worrying about him.

"Hayaan mo muna syang makapag-isip." Des told me. "No, don't call him." she stopped me when I dialled Sam's number.

"But--"

"Don't. How will he move on if you don't let him be on his own?" Des smiled and squeezed my hand. "Do what he told you to do. Puntahan mo na si Nathan. Don't wait for Sam. He'll be back after a few days."

I just sighed and nodded. Then, I stared at my phone's screen. Nathan is sick. He's sick and he lives alone. What should I do? Wala sa sarili yun pag may sakit eh. Baka naman mapano sya. Puntahan ko kaya sya? Would he be glad to see me? After I broke he's heart? Maybe I should go and apologize. I should tell him the total truth.

"Puntahan mo na si Nathan."

"Huh?"

"Puntahan mo na si Nathan." Des repeated. "You're worried about him, aren't you? I can see it in your face."

Am I that obvious? Oh, well. This is Nathan we're talking about. Of course my worry for him will be freaking obvious. "Will it be ok if I ditch work? Wala si Sam."

Des chuckled. "Gi, you're not the CEO. Head Architect ka. And as I see it, tapos na lahat ng trabaho mo so I think, ok lang. Anong ginagawa ni Ryan and nung VP? Sa kanila na trabaho yun eh."

I frowned but nodded slowly. "You're right."

"So, if I were you," she started then took my things and arranged them. "Tatayo na ako dyan at pupuntahan ko na si Nathan."

Napangiti nalang ako tapos tumayo at inabot yung bag ko. "Thanks, Des."

Tumayo rin sya tapos yinakap ako. "No problem, Gi. It's great being with you again."

"Same here."

Des broke her hug and patted my cheeks lightly. "Ingat."

"Sure. Ikaw din." I smiled then headed to the door.

It's great talking to Des again. Parang nung dati lang. Ang kaibahan lang, hindi na kami kasal ni Nathan, nasaktan ko na si Sam and nabawasan and kaingayan ni Des.

**

Ok. Here it is. Inhale. Exhale. This is it. I'm standing in front of the elevator of the condo building where Nathan lives. Tutuloy ba ako o hindi? Andito na ako eh. Tuloy na natin.

The elevator door opened so I stepped inside. While on it, I can't help but fidget. What if he's mad at me? What if he doesn't want to see me? What if he doesn't want to give me a chance?

Ugh. Think positive, Gi. If he really loves you, he'll give you another chance. Think positive. It's never too late for love.

Pagdating ko sa floor ng condo ni Nathan, napahigpit yung hawak ko sa dala kong paperbag. I made him porridge. Kasi naman nung dati, walang matinong makakain sa condo nya. Nanigurado nalang ako.

I was hoping that Nathan would gladly eat the porridge I made for him when I stopped on my tracks. I can't believe what I am seeing. Nathan's kissing some other girl. What the eff is this?

My heart feels like it was pulled out of my chest. What the hell is happening? Didn't he just say before that he loves me?

When Nathan caught my eyes before entering his condo, I thought he'll stop and face me. But, no. Heck, he just glanced at me then they entered his condo! Oh, sht.

I felt myself go weak. Napasandal nalang ako sa wall. What was that? What is he doing? Dammit, what's happening?! My chest hurts. It's like there's something inside that's squeezing my heart painfully. My cheeks hurt too from trying to prevent not to cry. I don't know why I actually feel this pain physically. What I saw just simply hurts. It just hurts.

Heck! Ang tanga ko kasi! Ba't pa ako umasa. Nasaktan lang ako. Ang sakit lang. Taena.

I glanced at where I saw Nathan and the girl earlier. Sht. Ang sakit talaga. Gusto kong umiyak. How can he forget about me so fast? I thought he loves me. Was that just a lie? Am I too late? My heart clenched at the thought. I can't be late. I've sacrificed Sam for him. I'm risking everything for him. I just can't give up and cry here. I need to fight for him. I am not going to give up. That isn't just me. I'm not just any girl. I'm Gianna Chloe Dizon who once married to that handsome idiot. If someone can handle him properly, that someone is me.

Wiping the tears on my face, I stood up properly, took a deep breath and with the paperbag in my hand, I headed and knocked on Nathan's door. I waited for the door to open. And when it opened, it was the girl who opened it for me.

"May I help you?" she asked. I studied the girl from head to toe. She's wearing a short glittery dress and high heels. Puh-lease. I'm way gorgeous than her even if I'm in my ragged shirt,

jeans and leather boots. How can Nathan choose her over me? (Back me up. I'm boosting my self-esteem.)

"Excuse me." I said as I make my way inside.

"Excuse me?"

I ignored her and headed to the kitchen where I found Nathan drinking juice. Pinatong ko yung paperbag kung saan nakalagay yung dala ko sa mesa bago humarap kay Nathan.

"What are you doing?" I heard Nathan ask.

I faced him and crossed my arms over my chest. "What are you doing?"

"Leave me alone. Buhay ko to."

"Efyu ka. Umayos ka. Sasapakin kita." I glared at him. "Don't you dare kiss another girl. I'll kill you."

He just snorted. But I ignored him when the girl earlier entered the kitchen. Tapos, lumapit kay Nathan at pinalupot yung mga kamay sa kanya. Arggh.

"Do you know her?" she asked.

I scowled at Nathan when he stared at me with poker face. "No." he said.

Aba't-- "No? Huh. Excuse me, octopusit," I snorted then came over to them and pulled octopusit's arms around Nathan. "I'm his wife, childhood frienemy, soon-to-be mother of his kids and his guardian. So, if you want to preserve the pretty face of yours, better stay away from him."

The girl looked shocked. Then, he turned to Nathan. "You told me you were single!" then, she turned away and left the kitchen. Yeah, get lost, dude.

"But I am." pahabol naman ni Nathan. I turned and glared at him. How dare he. Pinagpapalit agad ako. Loko to ah. Nagkagulo ulit buhay ko dahil sa kanya tapos ganyan-ganyan sya?!

"What?" he snapped then left the kitchen.

I followed. "How dare you. I was worried sick because I heard you were sick but instead, I found you flirting and making out with some octopusit! You wanna die?!"

He stopped on his tracks and faced me. "What are you doing here?" he asked his face still expressionless. "I don't need you."

I felt my heart fell on the floor and shatter. Ouch. That hurts.

I smiled bitterly. Do you hate me now?

"Do you feel alright? Teka. Nilalagnat ka ba?" I asked tapos lumapit ako sa kanya at sinalat yung noo nya.

He pushed my hand away but it was enough for me to feel how warm he is.

"M-may sinat ka." I told him, ignoring the fact that I can feel my tears wanting to escape from my eyes. Why are you like that? It hurts.

"I can take care of myself." he snapped at me then, he turned his back to me. "Leave me alone."

My heart broke when he told me to leave him. I know kasalanan ko naman bakit kami nagkaganito. But, what really hurts is he's pushing me away. Can't he just listen to what I want to say?

"Nathan..." I pleaded.

"We're not married anymore, ok?! So leave me alone!" he told me angrily.

At bago ko pa napigilan ang sarili ko, nasampal ko na sya. "Bakit ka ba nagkakaganyan? Ikaw lang ba yung nasaktan?! Ha!? Nasaktan din ako! Nasaktan ko si Sam! Sa tingin mo ba hindi ako nahirapan!? Nahirapan ako! Natakot! Do you know how scared I was to risk everything for you?! Do you know that standing here in front of you means risking my life and everything that I have?! Because, you know what?! If I get my heart be broken from you again -- which I am experiencing right now -- there'll be nothing left for me! My life will be in ruins and I will live hating everything!"

Galit nyang naihalamos yung kamay nya sa mukha nya. "Bakit, Gianna? Sa tingin mo ba walang nawala sa akin?! Alam mo ba kung gaano ako nahirapan nung nawala ka?! Alam mo ba kung gaano kasakit yung alam mo sa sarili mo na ikaw yung dahilan kung bakit nawala yung anak mo?! Alam mo ba kung anong katangahan yung dinanas ko nung

iniwan mo ako kay Gwen!?" he shouted angrily. Napapikit nalang ako kasi nararamdaman ko yung sarili ko na gustong umiyak. Gustong-gusto ko ng umiyak. Bakit ba napunta kami sa ganitong kalagayan? Bakit ba nahulog pa kami sa isa't isa kung magiging ganito rin lang? Bakit ba kailangan pa naming masaktan? Is this our punishment for playing with marriage? If it is, why do we have to meet ways again?

Nathan went over the sink and washed his face with water harshly. Then, he faced me with eyes that are full of pain. "Don't just think that you were the one who lived in hell! I did, too! I lived in hell every single day after you left me! Do you know how crazy I almost went whenever I think where you were?!"

Napayakap ako sa sarili ko. Then, I went over and reached for him. Maybe I was a little too late. Maybe I should just try to move on. Maybe we were never meant to be together.

I glanced and stared at Nathan's pained expression. My heart clenched. Does he still love me? Maybe. But, maybe, I've hurt him too much to the point that he got tired of getting hurt.

I smiled bitterly at him then held his face gently. I can feel my tears richly coming out of my eyes. Feeling my heart break, I filled the space between us and kissed him.

This may be the last time that I'll be kissing him.

Breaking our kiss, I turned around and walked away.

Trying not to turn around and look at him, I headed for the door. I swallowed the tears that were tempting to escape from my eyes then, I opened the door and left the room.

While walking on the hallway, I was hugging myself. For I can feel myself breaking to pieces. I love him so much that it hurts. Why did he give up on me? Why?

Feeling myself falling into pieces, I fell on the floor and hugged myself. I thought he really will fight for me. Why does he need to give up now?

Napasandal nalang ako sa pader habang umiiyak. But what caught my attention was when I noticed Nathan watching me from a distance. My heart clenched. Why does he need to come after me?

"Gi..." he muttered. I wiped my tears then stood up.

"S-sorry." I told him, not meeting his eyes. Then, I turned around and started walking again.

But before I could distance myself from him, he pulled my hand and made me face him. Then, he hugged me.

"Please don't." he told me. I can feel his warm skin that reminds me that he's sick. "Don't leave me again."

Did I hear him right?

"I don't know how I managed to live without you. Please don't leave." he said again.

This time, I stopped crying. It was now sinking to me.

It's never too late when there's love.

**

I stared to Nathan's bed. Kakatapos ko lang ayusin yung kama nya. Parang dinaanan ng buhawi sa gulo eh.

"Hi, gorgeous wife." Nathan greeted then hugged me from the behind.

I turned around and kiss him lightly on the lips. I miss this kind of thing. "Naghilamos ka na nyan? Kumain ka na?"

He laid his forehead against mine and stared into my eyes. "Yeah."

"Good."

"I love you."

I smiled. "I love you more."

He kissed my forehead and hugged me tightly again. "I love you most."

I hugged him back. I wish we will always be like this.

"I just realized," he said then he sat down and made me sit on his lap. Oh, sht. This is embarrassing. I feel like I'm a kid. XD "When I was sick before, I already kissed you."

"Oh. Yeah." I nodded slowly when I remembered it. May nalalaman pa syang XO non. xD

"You taste sweet." he smirked then kissed me.

I kissed him back. Because he taste sweet, too. At first, the kiss was light. But before we know it, it became more deep and aggressive. And when I realized it, we were on the bed and Nathan's on top of me.

I can see a glint of mischief in his eyes when we broke the kiss. "I've missed you." he said.

I just chuckled then pulled him and kissed him again. He's everything I want.

With the help of each other, we both undressed each other. And before claiming me, all I could think was how much I love him.

Chapter 54: Under the rain.

I stared at Nathan's sleeping face. I can't believe what happened. We just reconciled yet, we already did it. Everything went so fast.

I just sighed and traced his eyebrows. At that moment, his eyes opened.

"Hi." he smiled.

I smiled back. "Hi. How are you feeling?"

He snuggled closer to me under the blanket. I can feel his warm skin on my bare skin. "I feel great. If you know what I mean." he smirked at me.

I rolled my eyes and smiled then kissed him. "I have to go to work."

"Aw. It's cold outside. Stay here in bed with me."

"I'll just check my work."

"Live here with me."

"What?"

"Leave your condo." he smiled. "Dito ka nalang."

I patted his cheeks. "I'll think about it." then, I gently removed his arms around me and got up.

"You've got the sexiest back in the world, you know." Nathan commented.

I just stucked my tongue out and took my clothes then headed to the bathroom.

Paglabas ko ng banyo, I found Nathan wearing boxers. Dude, he still has a perfect body.

"Hey, gorgeous." he called when he noticed me. "Look what I found."

"What?"

"Your birthday gift when you turned 18." he answered then held up a watch.

I frowned when I remembered how I got that watch. Nathan gave it to me when we were in our honeymoon.

Nathan came closer and held my hand. "Do you know what's the meaning behind this gift?" he asked then pinasuot nya sa akin yung relo.

"What?"

"It means," he started then kissed me gently. "Every hour, every minute, every second and millisecond, I love you."

And, at that moment, every doubt that crossed my mind was gone.

**

"Anong oras ka uuwi?" Nathan asked on the other line.

"Pauwi na. Bakit?"

"Meet me at the front of the Empire State building." he answered. "Isn't that, like, 15 minutes drive from your office?"

"I think so kung hindi traffic." sabi ko naman tapos sumandal sa sandalan ng swivelling chair ko.

"I love you."

I can't help but smile at his sudden comment. "I love you more."

"I love you to infinity and beyond." he chuckled. "Nilalanggam na ako dito. Anyway, gorgeous, I'll see you in a moment."

"Sure. Bye." I said then ended the call.

Inayos ko na yung gamit ko tapos tumayo na ako. I headed for the door but before leaving the room, I glanced at Sam's vacant chair. Hay. It's been three days. I hope he's doing well.

"Ry," tawag ko kay Ryan paglabas ko. "I'll be going."

"Take care, Miss Chloe." he smiled then resumed typing on the computer.

I smiled. Paalis na ako nung napahinto ako ulit. "Ry, did Sam contacted you?"

"Oh. Sir Luke asked for his schedule meetings for today." Ryan answered.

"Does he..."

"He sounds fine, miss." he said with a smile. I nodded slowly. Then, before I can ask Ryan to tell Sam to call me, I left.

While walking, some employees greeted me. I smiled back. Pero di nakatakas sa akin yung sinabi nung isang babae sa kasama nya.

"So she did use sir Luke, didn't she?"

"Shut up, Lily," shushed the other. "Miss Chloe just gave Sir Luke a chance. It just didn't turn out well."

I just sighed and let it pass. Ano bang masasabi ko sa kanila? Maiintindihan ba nila mga desisyon ko? Hindi.

I reached the parking lot and entered it. Paglabas ko, light rain greeted me.

Paghinto ko sa tapat ng building, I reached for my phone and called Nathan. After few rings, he answered. "Where are you?" I asked.

"Baba ka. Habang di umuulan." he answered the ended the call.

I frowned but just shrugged. I opened the door and checked the falling rain. Deciding I won't need an umbrella, I stepped out of the car. I was surprised when I found Nathan standing in front of the building. But what surprised me most was, the line of people before him, holding cardboards. Each cardboard contain letters. When I read it, I can't help but smile.

"Can you?" asked Nathan.

I bit my lip as I try not to smile. Shet. I'm so kinikilig. xD Pano kaya, yung nakasulat is "Stay with me" tapos sa cardboard na hawak ni Nathan ay "forever." O di ba. Sinong di kikiligin? Ha? Ha? Manhid mo nalang kung di ka kinilig!

There were some choruses of "say yes" and I was like, "Oh, stop you." outside. But deep inside, I was actually like "Owemgee. Asfkjdgljhk. I'm so kinikilig!" Hahaha!

"Yih. I hate you. Of course I will stay with you." I answered. Eeeeh! Nakakahiya eh. Pinapanuod kami ng lahat! Eeeeeeh!! XD Kinikilig ako! :">

At once, Nathan cheered. Nakisali narin yung mga nanunuod sa amin. Nakipag-high five pa yung mga kasama nya! Grabe lang. xD

He then came closer to me and kissed me deeply but gently. I can even feel the grin on his face. But at that moment, heavy rain started falling. Nevertheless, that didn't stop us or what. We just stayed under the rain, kissing. It was sweet. This is so clichd but I think that kissing under the rain is romantic. It's like, every girls dream to be kissed under it.

When he ended the kiss, I smirked. "Catch me." I told him and ran.

Nathan grinned and ran after me. He tried to catch me but failed. I ended up laughing at him. Before, the sight of rain makes me sad. But now, it's different. Everything will now be different, right?

After a few tries, (we are now so wet but, who cares? xD) Nathan caught me. And we ended up laughing and kissing again.

"Come with me." he said then pulled me somewhere.

We stopped in front of a cafe. I saw Nathan nodded then, a sweet song was played aloud.

Nathan placed my hands around his neck then held me on my waist. Slowly, we danced under the rain with the accompaniment of the sweet music.

I wish we will always be like this. Before, I don't really like the rain. It reminds me of my past. Of losing my Angel. But now, being under the rain makes me feel loved. I wish everything will always be like this.

Chapter 55: Life.

*Gianna's POV*

It's been a month since I made up with Nathan. And now, I'm practically like living in his condo. But, he sometimes sleeps on mine.

And about Sam. Seems like he's working even though he doesn't go to his office. I miss him. After all, he's my bestfriend. I was so tempted to go to him but, Des always reminds me to let him move on on his own. I guess she's right.

I sighed and massaged my cramping abdomen then rolled the blueprint of my latest project. I just finished it with the help of Destiny. I was actually planning to ask her out to hang out but, she needs to go back to Philippines due to some problems. I guess the happy-go-lucky Destiny needs to be a little more mature now.

Dinaanan ko muna si Ryan para iabot yung blueprint. I'm amazed with this guy. I know he's having a hard time on setting up the schedule and meetings of Sam but, he's managing on his own.

"Tell Sam I said--" what? What should I say to Sam? "Nah. Nevermind, Ry. I'll be going."

"Take care, Miss Chloe." called Ryan. I waved at him then left his office.

Paglabas ko ng building, nadatnan ko si Nathan na nakasandal sa kotse nya. I closed my eyes. I wanna pinch his cheeks! Ugh. I feel so weird. "Hi, gorgeous."

I can't help but smile. "Don't you need to work?"

"Tapos na po." he chuckled. Tapos sinalubong nya ako. "Want to eat ice cream?"

"Sure." I smiled. Ice cream? Yum.

"Tara." he said then opened the car's door for me. O di ba. Gentleman lang ni Nathan. :">

While he's driving, I can't help but stare at his face. I feel happy just staring at him. After all the things that happened, I'm glad that I'm still in love with him.

He glanced and smiled at me. "Listen to this." he said then touched the iPad that was connected with the car's stereo with the help of USB cord.

An unfamiliar music was played but Nathan just winked at me. **A/N: Please play the music on the side! haha. :) thanks . ;)**

"Merrily we fall out of line, out of line. I'd fall anywhere with you, I'm by your side. Swinging in the rain, humming melodies. We're not going anywhere until we freeze."

I stared at Nathan as he sing with the song.

"I'm not afraid, anymore. I'm not afraid. Forever is a long time. But, I wouldn't mind spending it by your side."

"Remember this?" asked Nathan. Nakagat ko yung labi ko sa kilig. Naman eh! xD

"Carefully we'll place for our destiny. You came and you took this heart and set it free. Every word you write or sing is so warm to me, so warm to me. I'm torn; I'm torn to be right where you are."

This time, he's not singing anymore. Instead, he took and held my hand.

"I'm not afraid, anymore. I'm not afraid. Forever is a long time. But I wouldn't mind spending it by your side. Tell me every day I get to wake up to that smile. I wouldn't mind it at all. I wouldn't mind it at all. You so know me. Pinch gently. I can hardly breathe."

I smiled to myself. Eeh. Ba't ganyan? Kinikilig ako.

"Forever is a long, long time. But I wouldn't mind spending it by your side. Tell me every day I get to wake up to that smile. I wouldn't mind it at all. I wouldn't mind it at all."

The song ended exactly when we arrived at the ice cream parlor. After Nathan turned off the car's engine, he faced and held me on my cheeks.

"I really wouldn't mind spending forever by your side." he smiled.

I smiled back and kissed him. "Me either."

"Really?"

"Of course."

He bit his lip and shyly smiled at me. Napano to? XD Eeeh! Ang cute nya tignan!

"Let's go get some ice cream." he said instead. Natawa nalang ako at tumango.

Pagpasok namin sa loob, wala masyadong tao. Siguro kasi tapos na yung rush hour at halos dinner na. Ewan ko ba kay Nathan ba't ice cream ang napagtripan. Pero ayos lang. Gusto ko din naman. Tapos sabayan mo pa ng french fries. Yum.

"Upo ka na sige." Nathan told me. "Ako na bahala mag-order."

Tumango ako tapos umupo sa may gitna. Center of attraction kasi ako. Dejoke lang.

Pinanood ko lang si Nathan habang nag-oorder sya. Ba't ganyan? I feel like I'm a teen ager. For Pete's sake, I'm already 22! Pero kung makakilig ako, wagas lang eh. Kung pwede lang mangbugbog dahil sa kilig, malamang matagal ko na nagawa yon. Ewan ko ba. Magtitigan lang kami ni Nathan parang kinikiliti na yung tiyan ko at lumulutang na ako. Parang ewan lang eh. Tapos isa pa tong si Nathan! Sobra naman kung pakiligin ako. It's really obvious that he can make any girl fall. Grabe lang kaya. Tapos, wala mang nagbago sa kanya! Yung pananamit, yun parin. Parang may lakad lang na kailangan, semi-formal ang suot. Di man halatang sya

yung nagpapatakbo ng isang malaking company. Aakalain mo pa nga, late teen lang sya eh. Seryoso. Mas gumwapo pa nga sya ngayon eh. Pramis lang mga dre!

"Bakit?" tanong ni Nathan tapos umupo na sa upuan sa tapat ko.

I smiled at him. "Wala."

He smirked at me, then, took my hand and played with it.

"How's Sam?" he suddenly asked.

Nagtaka naman ako sa bigla nyang pagtanong tungkol kay Sam. "Honestly, I don't know. Bakit?"

Nathan smiled and caressed my face gently. "I'm just surprised because he let you go easily."

Napayuko ko sa sinabi ni Nathan. I feel so sad for Sam. He gave me everything he could give to me but I broke his heart. "He said he wants me to be happy."

Nathan brushed my chin and smiled. "Which do you think is greater? His or mine?"

"Huh? Yours?"

"Silly." he chuckled then kissed my hands. "There are no words to explain how much I love you. But, I think that our love for you is greater than each other on their own way."

I frowned. He's confusing me. "What do you mean?"

"They're great in their own way." Nathan said. "Sam sacrificed his happiness for you. Do you think, that is easy? No. But, he did it for you. It's great, right? But, mine is great, too. Even though you left me before, I did my very best to find you."

I looked up and smiled at him. But before I can say something, our order arrived.

"Eat up." grinned Nathan.

And I can't help but smile.

**

*Nathan's POV*

I looked up from the documents I was reading when I heard a knock. "Yes?"

"Excuse me Sir Miguel but you've got a call from home on line 4." answered Audrey. She's my assistant.

Binalik ko yung tingin ko sa binabasa ko. "If it's from my grandfather, tell him I'm out."

"No, sir." sagot naman ni Audrey. "It's from Miss Marian."

"Miss Marian?" I frowned. It's been ages since I last talked to lola Marian. "Ok, ok."

Audrey nodded then left my office. I reached for the phone and pressed line 4. "Yes, tita Marian?"

"Ang tagal mo naman." reklamo agad ni lola Marian.

"Busy." I answered instead. "What's up, tita?"

"Well?"

"Well what?"

"Why can't we contact you lately?" asked lola Marian. "You're phone is always out of reach and you're always not there when I'm calling."

"Ah, that." napasandal ako sa upuan ko. "I broke my phone. And I'm a bit... busy."

"Busy with what? This is why I'm not surprise about what Gwen did." I heard her sigh.

I frowned at Gwen's name. "What about Gwen?"

"She came over there. Didn't she tell?" answered lola Marian with a disapproving voice. "She left your son alone in the hospital! What a girl."

Napadiretso ako ng upo. "Wait... What? Gwen's coming here? And she left my son? But, lol-- I mean, tita, Daniel is not my s--"

"Hay, Nathan! She's already there!" medyo inis atang sabi ni lola Marian. Di talaga type si Gwen eh. I told her everything that happened when I couldn't take what was happening to my life before. "Why do you have to be with Gwen kasi eh! I want Gianna! I miss her! I hate that evil girl. She's the total opposite of your son!"

"Tita, Daniel is not my so--"

"That adorable little angel! He's alone with me and that boring old kuya Martin but he's still a good boy and doesn't even throw tantrums!" lola Marian interrupted.

I rolled my eyes. "What I want to know is, tita, is Gwen here?"

"I just said it!" snapped lola Marian. "Didn't she go to your office?"

I hastily stood up. "I don't know. I'll ask my assistant. Be right back." I told lola Marian then laid the phone on my table.

Dali-dali akong lumabas ng office ko. "Did someone came and looked for me?" I asked Audrey.

"None, sir." she answered surprisedly. "But someone did call and asked for you a few days ago, Sir."

"Who was it?"

Audrey reached for a record book. "She said her name was Gwen."

"What did you tell her?" I asked then closed my eyes and pinched the bridge of my nose. Sht! Ano bang iniisip ni Gwen!? Iniwan nyang mag-isa si Daniel sa hospital!

"I told her you were with having a dinner with Miss Gianna." answered Audrey. "She even asked if Miss Gianna is friends with Mr. Luke Lopez."

I slammed my hand on her desk. Ba't di nya sinabi?! "Why didn't you told me?!"

"I-- I-I mentioned it yesterday, Sir." Audrey flinched. "But you just nodded and dismissed me."

I just gritted my teeth and tried to relax myself. It's not her fault. It's not. "Ok. Just-- Just cancel all my meetings." I told her then ran to the nearest elevator.

**

"Gi!" I called Gianna when I saw her climbing out of the elevator. She turned around and smiled at me.

Tumakbo ako papalapit sa kanya. Medyo hingal pa ako nung nakalapit ako sa kanya. "We-need to-- t-talk."

"About what?"

I took a deep breath and stared at her. "About us. About Gwen."

"Ah." she smiled bitterly. I reached for her but she stepped backwards. "Us. Gwen. Really, Nathan. I've had enough."

"But--"

She turned her back on me. "You never told me you're getting married. Congrats."

My chest tightened painfully. She can't be giving up on us, can she? "Gi, let me explain."

"Nathan, please." she sighed. "Look! I don't give a damn anymore! Leave me alone! Just think about your son and marriage. I heard he's hospitalized. Stop wasting your time here and go back."

And before I can say something, Gianna walked away. Leaving me.

Again.

I was about to follow her when Gwen appeared in front of me.

"No, Nathan." she hugged me tight. "I won't allow it."

I gritted my teeth and pushed her away. I've been deceived enough. I've sacrificed enough and it's not even because of love. "I've had enough, Gwen."

Then, without looking back at her, I ran after Gianna. I have to tell her about everything. She needs to know. She already suffered too much.

Why is it like that? Why do I keep on hurting the one I love? Why does she have to give up now? After all the things I did? Why is it like that? Why are we being seperated from each other when we just reconciled? Why life is so unfair?

"Gi." I whispered when I saw her figure. I just have to run after her, right?

"No!" Gwen screamed and grabbed me from behind.

I struggled at her hug. Sht! Why does she always ruin my happiness?! "Let me go, Gwen!"

"I won't let you! I need you! Daniel needs you!"

"Stop being so selfish! Let me go!"

"I won't!"

I turned around and faced her then grabbed her shoulders. "Gwen!" I shouted angrily at her. I just simply hate her now. She ruined my life, my love, my family, my freedom! I hate her! Every beat of my heart shouts hate on her! I've given everything to her but she just ruined what I have! "We're done! We're already through! Years ago! I've already moved on! I don't love you!" I shouted at her. Tapos galit kong tinuro yung dibdib ko. "It's Gianna who owns my heart! Not you! Stop ruining my life! You don't even need me. You just need my money! I'll give it to you so will you stop coming after m--" I held the part where Gwen slapped me.

"Stop that bullshit!" she cried. "I'm not something that can be bought! All I want is to give my Daniel a decent life! A decent family! Don't think that all I want from you is money!"

Nanglalambot akong napaupo sa daan. Pagod na ako. Pagod na pagod na ako. Hindi ko na alam. Iniwan ako ng mahal ko. Nasasaktan ako para kay Daniel. Wala naman syang kasalan. Hindi ko na talaga alam. Ano ba dapat ang gawin ko? Gulong-gulo na ako.

I stared at Gwen's crying figure. Pati sya, napaupo na rin sa daan. Hindi ko na talaga alam. Marami ng nasaktan. Marami ng nawala. Hindi ko na alam kung mababalik ko pa kung ano yung nawala.

Napatingin nalang ako kay Gwen nung ilabas nya yung cellphone nya.

"Hello?" she said. Then, I saw her eyes widen in shock and her phone fall on the ground.

"Nathan." she called. "Daniel's in critical condition. Lolo Martin has been..."

"Has been what?" dugtong ko agad nung napatigil sya.

She stared at me looking she's about to cry. "Shot." she whispered.

I felt my heart beat stop. Sht.

**

*Gianna's POV*

I stared at the ceiling of my condo. I just woke up but I don't have the energy to be up.

I smiled bitterly at myself. I lost Sam, I lost Nathan, I lost Angel and I lost motivation in life. I lost everything. What kind of idiot am I, really?

I tossed around my bed and hugged my pillow. I just want to sleep. I don't want to face reality. I just want to run away again.

Why life is like this? So unfair. I just want to be happy. Really. I just want to be with Nathan. Huh. Seems impossible now.

I sighed and got up. This will be a loooong day.

I headed to my closet to choose what I should wear today. But, when I saw my reflection in the mirror, I stopped.

Everything is gone from me. The cheerfulness, optimism, happiness, everything. What had happened to me?

I stared at my lifeless eyes. Why do I look like a doll? Expressionless and cold. Where's the twinkle in my eyes? They look so boring. No. Wait, there's something in my eyes. Tears. I'm crying. Why? I told myself I won't cry. I made this decision so I must pay for the consequence.

Then, I just found myself lying on the floor, crying. I don't want this. I've had enough of being broken hearted. I'm sick and tired of this feeling. Isn't the first time enough?

When I'm already tired of crying, I sat up and hugged myself. Enough of this. I look pathetic.

It was when I stood up when I felt a huge wave of nausea coming to me. And before I can stop myself, I was running towards the bathroom. Without thinking, I bent down on the sink and threw up. Ugh. My stomach feels so acidic.

After doing my business, I stood up. Ugh. What's wrong with me? Every morning, it's always like this. Weird cravings like a few days ago, too.

I massaged my stomach to calm it.

Oh, sht.

I pushed my hand a little to my stomach. Oh, sht, sht, sht.

I can feel a soft bump in my abdomen which isn't there before.

I closed my eyes. A life inside me? This can't be possible. But... I have to make sure.

I rushed out of the bathroom and looked for my phone. When I got it, I scanned through my contacts. My first thought was, Nathan. But, I can't. No, not him. I can't call Destiny either. She already came back to the Philippines.

My hand stopped when my eyes landed on the name of the person who was always there for me.

Sam.

I dialed his number and prayed.

Then, the ringing stop.

"Hello?"

"Sam." I whispered. "I'm in trouble."

Chapter 56: Don't dwell on the past. *Nathan's POV*

Nahilamos ko yung kamay ko sa palad ko. I feel so tired. Physically and mentally tired. I'm tired of everything. If something bad happens to lolo and Daniel, I don't if I could take it. Even though Daniel is not my son; I've grown attached to him.

Yes. I know that he's not my son. I just found out about it when I was in New York. I've been receiving reports on how he's been doing in the hospital. I realized that he's not my son when his doctor told me his blood type. He's type O-. I'm type AB+. Gwen's type A-. Then, ta-da. I asked for a DNA test. Really, how will I produce a kid of my own with a different blood type? I should have done that years ago. I'm so stupid.

"You should take a rest." I looked up and saw lola Marian looking tired. "Di ka pa natulog ng maayos simula nung umuwi kayo 3 days ago."

I shook my head. "No, tita. I'm fine."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes, tita. I'm ok." I assured. Tumango nalang sya tapos naupo sa tabi ko.

It's better this way. If I'm tired, I can't think of Gianna. My mind would be craving for rest instead.

"I know you're worried about your son and kuya Martin." lola Marian said. Then, she patted my shoulder assuringly. "But, they'll be ok."

Napayuko nalang ako at napasabunot ng buhok ko. "Tita, Daniel is-- Daniel is not my son."

"What do you mean he's not your son? Of course he's your son." lola Marian said exasparatedly.

"No, tita. He's not mine."

"Not yours? How could be that possible! Gwen said something happened between you and her!" lola Marian looked scandalised.

But before I can answer, Gwen came out of Daniel's room. "N-no. Nothing happened between us."

I stared at her quietly. I was taken aback by her sudden revelation.

"You..." lola Marian said slowly. "You lied... to us?"

Iniwas ni Gwen yung tingin nya. "I'm sorry, tita."

"Sorry? Sorry, Gwen? This is crazy! After all that you did, you'll tell us that you're sorry?" galit na sabi ni lola Marian kay Gwen. "You ruined Nathan's life, you've broken his family, you caused his and Gianna's child and you'll say sorry?" she stood up and hid her eyes behind her palm.

"Tita..." I tried to calm her up.

But lola Marian just held up her hand. "After all these years, didn't you even feel guilty for stealing Gianna's place in our home?"

"I did it for Daniel. For love!" cried Gwen.

It was too late for me to stop when tita Marian slapped Gwen on her face. "Love? Daniel?" shouted lola Marian. "You did it for yourself! You're just a selfish little brat who only knows how to relay on others! Now look at Daniel! He's sick with leukaemia! If that's karma, I guess it's striking you!"

Gwen held the part where lola Marian's hand landed. "You don't know what I've been through to make me do something horrible like that."

"I don't care what you've been through." lola Marian muttered angrily. "I don't care what happened in your past. But you should know, if you lost something, no matter how you love it, no matter how you care for it, you should know to move on and think forward! Don't go around making someone lost something because you lost something too!"

I stared at lola Marian. Maybe, just maybe, she's talking about herself. She's talking about her experience. When she lost her child and lolo Leo.

"Because that's what life is!" lola Marian continued as she starts to cry. "It's all about moving on! You shouldn't dwell on your past! You shouldn't stay down if you fell! No one's going to help you always! You should be the own helping yourself! You should stand on your own! Not forcing someone to help you!"

I stared hopelessly as Gwen falls into the floor. I sat beside her and hugged her. "That's enough, Gwen. Stop crying. You shouldn't act weak. Be strong for Daniel."

At that moment, she bursted crying on my shoulder. "I'm sorry, Nathan. I really am. I-I'm sorry. II know what I d-did i-is unf-forgiva-able but, I'm s-sorry."

I didn't answer but I let her cry. She's asking for forgiveness but, I just can't forgive her right now. All I could do was understand her. But, not forgive her.

Nung umupo si lola Marian sa upuan, napatingin kami bigla sa mga tumatakbong nurse at doctor. I stood up and pulled Gwen.

"What's happening, doc?" I asked Dr. Umeda.

He paused a little before entering the ICU room. "Daniel's heart has--"

"What happened to my son?!" Gwen gripped Dr. Umeda's hospital gown's collar.

"It stopped."

I felt Gwen collapse on the floor as my heart froze.

**

*3 years later*

I turned around and saw lolo Martin smiling and standing by the door of my car. "Everyone's waiting for you."

I smiled back at him and nodded.

"Cheer up." he added. "It's Daniel's 6th birthday. He'll be sad to see you like that."

I sighed and stared at the clear sky outside of window. After a few moments, I heard the door open felt lolo's hand on my shoulder. I turned and stared at him. His age lines were deeper than years ago. His hair was greyer. His face thinned up a bit. Suffering from sadness for years made him look older. But, I'm glad that he's still with me. After the incident 3 years ago, he was able to survive it. And the one who shot him was caught; it was the same person who killed my and Gianna's parents.

"Don't dwell on the past, Nathan. Understand?" smiled lolo Martin. "Now, let's go?"

I nodded then together with lolo Martin, we climbed down the car.

"Pagbalik natin, I have a surprise for you." chuckled lolo Martin.

I frowned. "Ano?"

He smiled mischievously. "Secret." then, he came over and took a white balloon from lola Marian and handed it to me.

"Tagal mo." reklamo ni lola Marian.

"Sorry."

She just smiled. "Daniel and Gwen were waiting for you."

I smiled then, kneeled down on the grass and lightened the candles that was standing in front of two graves; the graves of Daniel and Gwen.

"Happy birthday, Daniel." I said and let go of the white balloons then, together with lola Marian and lolo Martin, we offered our prayers.

I guess, death isn't a sad thing. Because, I think, this where Gwen and Daniel finally became happy. After all, no one will truly die as long as they live in someone's heart. I hope they're both happy wherever they are now.

I still remember that day. Shortly after announcing Daniel's death, Gwen followed him by stabbing her heart.

**

"Manang Beth?" I called as I climb down the stairs.

Kakatapos ko lang magbihis at ako po'y gutom na. But, what stole my attention was the kid that was playing toy cars on the floor. Baka bisita ni lolo.

Tuluyan na akong bumaba ng hagdan tapos lumapit sa bata. He looks like he's around 2 to 3 years old. I can't help but smile when I saw his two-teethed smile.

"Hello, kid." I greeted him.

He grinned at me then waved. "Eyow!"

I chuckled when I heard his reply. Kids are really cute, aren't they? "Nasan mama mo?"

"Mama? Mama!" he smiled again then held up his two arms like he's asking to be carried. "Mama there! With yoyo!"

Yoyo? Must be lolo. "Lolo? With lolo?"

"Uh-huh!" he nodded enthusiastically. "Carry 'Yan!"

Yan? Who's that? Must be him. English speaking pa. Nice. I smiled then reached for him. Whoa! He's a bit heavy, huh. But, he's a handsome kid. Sabagay, usually pag bata, cute.

"What's your name?" tanong ko. "Yan?"

He smiled and patted his stomach. "Gi-an."

"Gian?"

"Uh-huh!" he giggled again. "Gian wants to ride a horse."

"We don't have a horse." natatawa kong sabi.

"Well, piggy-back me! Like daddy!" Gian made a face.

I smiled and nodded. "Ok, ok." then, binababa ko sya at naupo ako para maka-akyat sya sa likod ko.

He laughed and cheered. I like the way he laughs. Same as Gianna. The thought of Gianna made me a bit sad but, when I felt Gian climbing on my back, I can't help but be cheered up.

"Hold on tight, ok?" I told him.

"'Kay." he giggled.

I smiled. Then, holding him tight, we slowly ran around the living room. Napapasabay nalang ako sa malakas na tawa ni Gian. After a few circles, huminto muna ako at naupo sa sahig. Nakakapagod kaya ang tumakbo.

"Yiih! Why?" complained Gian. "More!"

I smiled and messed his hair up. "Let me take a rest for a bit."

"'kay!" he nodded. Then, he turned his attention to the toys that he was playing before.

I stared at watched him. I don't know why but watching him makes me happy. It's really weird.

"Gian?" a voice behind me called. I turned around to see whoever it was but froze.

Gian looked up and grinned. "Mama!" he called then, he stood up and ran...

To Gianna's arms.

Chapter 57: Daddy who? Daddy? Who?

*Nathan's POV*

Gian is Gianna's son. Gian is Gianna's son. Gian is Gianna's son.

While we're here at the terrace, I can't help but gap at Gian and Gianna as they chat with lolo. I mean, Gian is obviously from Gianna. But, it's so obvious that I became oblivious about it.

I heard lolo Martin laugh as Gian climbs on his lap. I can't help but smile, too. Matagal ko na rin di nakikitang ganyan kasaya si lolo.

Then, I made a mistake by glancing at Gianna. And, great. She looks stunning as ever. Parang mas maganda pa nga sya ngayon eh. She looks so happy while watching Gian. So happy that it made my heart clench sadly. I wonder if she's married. Maybe she is.

"Nathan?" called lolo. I glanced at him questioningly. "Aren't you a bit quiet there? Come here."

I smiled and shook my head. Di pa ako prepared lumapit kay Gi. Baka sunggaban ko eh.

At that moment, Gian climbed down lolo's lap and ran to me. I chuckled when he laid his head on my lap. "Meeester piggy-baaack. What is yow neym?" he asked.

I smiled at him and messed up his hair. "Me? Call me 'Tito Handsome', ok?'"

"Idiot." I heard Gianna say. I glanced up and saw her chuckling.

I don't know why but it feels like my world stop at that moment. Like everything else didn't matter anymore. Like she's the only person that I'm seeing. Then, I realized, she's still the only woman who I can see with my eyes.

"Tito 'andsam?" called a voice that sounded far away.

"H-ha?" napatingin ako kay Gian. Oh, hell. What am I thinking? I shouldn't be like that. May anak na si Gianna. Tapos di ko pa alam sinong tatay nya. Malay ba natin baka mahal talaga nila isa't isa.

The thought broke my heart. I guess I've never really moved on. Gianna still owns my heart. How ridiculous is that? It's been years but here I am. Loving her like it matters.

"Come, baby." called Gianna. Gian happily ran to her. Paglapit ni Gian, inayos ni Gianna yung damit nya at ngumiti. "That's tito Nathaniel. Just call him tito Nathan."

"Na-thaniel? Me?" asked Gian.

'Me' daw o. Ako nga ho di ba? Gian o, maka-assume.

"Yup." nodded Gianna.

"Handsome name, eh?" singit naman ni lolo Martin.

Gian nodded enthusiastically that it made me smile. "'andsam me!"

Natawa naman kami. This kid is really entertaining. As long as I don't meet his father, I'd love him.

"Knock, knock." I heard someone said behind me.

But as I turn around, Gian ran as fast as his legs could carry him.

"Daddy Sam!"

Uhm... Daddy who?

"Hello, handsome!" halos mapa-nganga ako nung nakita kong buhat ni Sam si Gian.

"Hi, Sam." greeted Gianna. "Tagal mo."

"Sorry, Hersheys. Dumaan ako sa bahay eh." sagot naman ni Sam.

What the-- they're living together?!!

"Lolo Martin," bati ni Sam kay lolo tapos lumapit sya at nag-mano. "Kumusta ho?"

"Ayos lang." masayang tugon ni lolo. "Batang ire. Lalong gumwapo."

"Syempre po." ngiti naman ni Sam tapos marahang ginulo yung buhok ni Gian. "I can't lose to this handsome kid."

"Meeee?" smiled Gian. Tapos tinuro pa yung sarili.

No matter how I find him entertaining, I still couldn't quite accept the fact that his father is Sam.

"Mama," Gian called. Gianna smiled at him. "I want tubig."

"Tawagin mo nalang si Beth." sabi naman ni lolo.

Umiling si Gianna at ngumiti. "Ako nalang, 'lo. Para naman makapagkwentuhan kayo."

"Sigurado ka?"

"Oo naman, 'lo." sabi ni Gi tapos inabot si Gian. "Tara, baby?"

Sumama naman si Gian tapos, buhat-buhat na lumabas ni Gi si Gian. I stared at their backs. Why do I feel so sad?

Glancing at lolo and Sam who was busy chatting, I stood up and headed upstairs. Let me just compose myself.

Pag-akyat ko, nadatnan ko si lola Marian na naglalakad at mukhang kakadating lang. Nag-mall kanina eh.

"I heard Gianna's he--" napatigil sya nung nakita yung mukha ko. "What's wrong, dear?"

I smiled at her. "Ba't ang sakit, tita? Akala ko pag nakita ko syang masaya, masaya na rin ako."

Lola Marian sighed and pulled me into a hug. "Oh, dear."

I bit my lip and rested my forehead on her shoulder. "I thought I'll be ok as long as she's happy. I thought everything will be alright even though she's in love with somebody else."

Lola Marian patted my head. I gritted my teeth as I ignore the pain that was on my both cheeks and nose. They feel so heavy. But, no matter how I try, I can't fight the tears back that now started to come out of my eyes. "Why is it like that, tita?"

Hinarap ako ni lola Marian tapos pinunasan yung mga luhang bumasa ng mukha ko. "That's because no matter how much you tell yourself that you'll be happy as long as she's happy even though it's because of someone else, deep inside, you're hoping that you'll be the one who will make her happy."

I made a watery sniff then wiped my face and grinned. "Sorry, tita. I acted like a kid."

Lola Marian messed my hair a bit. "Ok lang yun, Nathan. Everyone can act like a kid when they get hurt."

Nginitian ko nalang si lola Marian. Wala eh. Masyado ko kasing inisip yung kasiyahan ni Gianna. Di ko inisip na subukang pasayahin yung sarili ko dahil sa ibang tao.

Pero, siguro kahit naisip ko yun, hindi ko magagawa.

**

Tumayo na ako galing sa pagkakahiga sa kama at nag-unat. Sleeping had refreshed my mind. Mas matino na ako mag-isip. Di tulad kanina, madrama ako mag-isip. Parang ewan lang na halatang broken hearted.

Bago lumabas, nag-ayos muna ako ng buhok at nagsuot ng matinong damit. Aba. Dapat itayo ang bandera ni Nathaniel Marty Miguel. Kung pa-gwapuhan lang naman ang laban, hindi ako matatalo dyan.

Ang kaso nga lang, hindi pa-gwapuhan ang laban.

Hay nako! Relax lang. Wag papahalatang depress. Kumustahin mo si Gianna. Parang yung dati lang. Rebuild the old relationship. Kahit yung before maging kayo lang.

So, I gave myself an assuring nod. Then, with a deep breath, lumabas na ako ng kwarto at bumaba. Pagbaba ko, nadatnan kong naglalaro si Sam and Gian. Psh. Daddy Sam. Mas gwapo si tito Nathan.

"Hey." bati ni Sam pagkakita sa akin. I nodded as an answer. "How's the business going?"

I shrugged. "Fine. Yours?"

"Dunno. I'm not handling the Lopez Group."

"Why?"

"Gi and I went to Paris."

Paris? Psh. Pagdikdikan sakin?

I ignored him and faced Gian. "What's up, kid?"

"I'm owkay." grinned Gian. Then, I offered a high-five which he gladly accepted.

"You want to eat ice cream?" tanong ko.

Gian's eyes lit up. I dunno why but they look strangely familiar. "Yes!" then, he faced Sam. "Daddy Sam, can I? Pwease?"

Sam chuckled. "Magpaalam ka sa mama mo."

"Sure!" he nodded. Then, he stood up then took my hand and pulled me towards the dining room. "Mama in 'chen, tito Na-than."

Frowning at his baby talk, I followed. Sa kakahila nya sa akin, sa kusina kami nakarating. Ah. Baka 'kitchen' ang ''chen'. Sorry naman. Hirap intindihin ang bata.

"Ma! Mama!" Gian called.

"Gi? Gian's here with me." tumulong narin ako at tinawag ang mama nya. "Gi!"

"Will you stop screaming my name, Nathan?" sita naman ni Gianna nung sumilip sya sa may dirty kitchen. "What is it, baby?" ngiti naman nya kay Gian.

"Ma, Gian eat ice cweam with tito 'Athan."

Pinaningkitan nya muna ako ng mata bago sumagot. "Sure. But, don't you dare ride that motorbike of yours, Nathan." she warned with a venomous glare. "Or I'll break that along with your face." then, she suddenly gave Gian a sweet smile. "Take care, sweetie."

Napangiwi naman ako sa sinabi. Brutal parin tong babaeng to. Di ko alam anong nasa isip. Nakakatakot lang mood swings nya.

"Tara?" tanong ko nalang kay Gian na tumatalon-talon.

"Yes!" he cheered. Napangiti nalang ako at binuhat sya. Kahit di ko type si Sam, ang gaan ng loob ko kay Gian. Siguro kasi di mo magawang magalit sa kanya dahil sa sobrang katuwaan.

Paglabas namin ng bahay (sa may side nalang kami dumaan dahil ayoko ng daanan si Sam) agad kaming sumakay sa kotse ko. Di na ako nagdalawang isip na suwayin si Gi kasi baka di ko na abutan ang bukas pag ginawa ko yun.

At habang nagbibiyahe kami ni Gian papunta sa SM, tawa sya ng tawa pag nakakakita ng kalesa, jeep at mga pedicab. Siguro kasi walang ganon kung saan sya lumaki.

"Ooh! Horse!" sabi ni Gian ulit at pumalakpak pa. "Tito, can we pwease ride the horsey? Puhwease?" he asked me with pleading eyes.

How could I say no to that?!

Natawa nalang ako. "Sure. Let's just park the car, ok?"

"'kay!" he nodded happily then gave me a two-teethed smile.

Nung nakakita ako ng parking lot, agad akong nag-park para naman agad kong masakay sa kalesa si Gian. It didn't fail me. Pagka-park at pagkababa nga namin sa kotse ko, may dumaan namang agad na kalesang walang sakay. Kaya dali-daling kong pinara yun at sinakay si Gian.

Habang nakasakay kami, tawa naman ng tawa si Gian at palakpak ng palakpak kaya natawa narin ako. Ewan eh. I love hearing his laugh.

"Masayang-masaya ho anak nyo ha." natatawang sabi nung kutsero. Nahawa narin sa tawa ni Gian. "Ngayon palang po ba sya nakasakay ng kalesa?"

Di ko na pinansin yung pag-aakala ni mamang kutsero na anak ko si Gian. "Oho eh. Galing ho kasi sa ibang bansa."

"Ganoon ba?" nginitian ako ni mamang kutsero. "Aba, nakakasaya naman na kalesa ko pa ang unang nasakyang kalesa ng gwapong batang iyan. Kamukhang-kamukha mo, ano?"

Tumawa naman ako at inayos ng konti yung buhok ni Gian. "Mas kamukha po nya nanay nya."

"Kuhh. Eh di ang gandang bata non."

I smiled. "Sobra po."

Ngumiti na rin lang si mamang kutsero at kinindatan si Gian.

"Wow! Kalesa is more fun than riding daddy Sam!" Gian exclaimed.

I smiled but frowned. Daddy Sam? Why does he call his dad with his name? "Gian, why are you calling your dad with his name?"

"Daddy Sam?" he repeated. I nodded. "Daddy Sam isn't my daddy."

I frowned deeper from what I heard. Sam is not his dad? Then, who is it? Is Gianna married to someone else? "Who is your dad? Where is he?"

"My daddy? Weal daddy?" he asked. Tumango naman ako. "I dunno."

"Your mom isn't married!?"

"M-me-mewid? What's that?" Gian frowned at me.

I took a deep breath. "Tell me, Gian. Are you living with your daddy?"

Gian slowly shook his head. "Nooo."

"Do you know who he is?"

Again, he shook his head. "Nooo. But, mama said we hab the seym name."

Same name? Gian? Ugh. Who is Gian's dad?

Chapter 58: Ligawan 101

*Nathan's POV*

Napahinto kami ni Gian nung nadatnan namin sa sala sina Ashley, Denice, Aaron, Sam, Destiny, Gianna at lola Marian na nagkukwentuhan. Napangiti ako. Kumpleto ang grupo ah. May dagdag pang bagets. Dejoke lang lola Marian.

"Tita Des!!!" sigaw ni Gian sabay bitaw sa akin at takbo kay Des na naka-upo sa may sofa.

"Hello, cutie!" salubong naman ni Des. "San ka galing?"

"Kalesa!" said Gian as he climb Destiny's lap.

"Kalesa?" ulit naman ni Gianna.

"Yes, 'ma! With tito 'Athan!" tango naman ni Gian.

"Nathan?!" sabay-sabay na sabi nila Ashley, Denice at Aaron.

I frowned. "Bakit?"

"Gi, akala ko ba di nya alam?" tanong ni Ashley. Anong di ko alam?

"Ba't magkasama na sila?" sabi pa ni Denice.

Ano daw?

Si lola Marian yung sumagot. "He's being dumb."

"Who?" nalilito ko paring tanong. Kasi, wala talaga akong naiintindihan.

"Duh." Sam rolled his eyes and stared at me like I'm the dumbest person in the world. "You."

"Sana di namana yan sa kanya." sabi ni Aaron kay Gianna.

Natawa naman si Gianna. "Chill, guys." she said. "He'll figure it out. I trust him. Right, Nathan?"

When I saw her smile at me, I think I felt my heart fall to my stomach, made a flip then jumped to Gianna. Yeah, yeah. I feel like a teen ager.

"U-uhh. Y-yeah." I nodded slowly.

Sam scowled at me. "You're blushing."

My eyes widened at the realization of what he said. Then, before I can stop it, my left hand flew to cover half of my face.

Natawa nalang sila. Psh. Di ko na maintindihan pinag-uusapan nila, nagmumukha pa akong clown. At least poging clown.

Hindi ko nalang sila pinansin tapos naglakad na ako papunta sa terrace kung saan nadatnan kong nakaupo si lolo Martin sa may swing na kahoy.

"'lo?" I called.

He turned around and smiled at me. "Hello."

"What are you doing?"

"Smiling. Why?" he smiled.

Umiling nalang ako tapos naupo sa may upuan. "'lo, kilala mo ba kung sino tatay ni Gian?"

He gave me a knowing look then chuckled. "I see you still don't know."

Napakamot naman ako ng batok. Ako nalang ba ang di may alam? "Obvious naman, 'lo. Nakakainis lang. Iniwan ba nya si Gi? Ang tanga naman nya."

Lalong natawa si lolo sa sinabi ko. "Hay, Nathan. Tanga nga sya. I can't believe how dumb he is."

"You know who he is, right? Tell me."

Lolo smiled mischievously at me. "Gusto mong malaman?" he asked. I nodded. "Halika."

Frowning, I came over. Paglapit ko, lolo leaned at me and whispered. "Ligawan mo muna ulit si Gianna."

"Lolo naman eh." reklamo ko. Ligawan ko ulit si Gi? Nananaginip ata si lolo. Pagkatapos ng mga nangyari? Baka sapakin pa ako.

"Aba, bakit?"

"Para namang pwede."

Lolo scowled at me. "At bakit naman di pwede? You still love her, don't you?"

Napayuko ako sa sinabi ni lolo. "Yes."

"Then go after her!" said lolo like it's the most obvious advice. "She's single, available and deserves the surname 'Miguel'!"

"Ligawan ko sya?" the idea was so tempting. The only problem is, "Paano kung ayaw nya?"

"Hay, Nathan. Nakukuha yan sa tiyaga."

"Ano naman gagawin ko kung liligawan ko sya?" tanong ko kay lolo.

Lolo patted my knee assuringly. "Leave it to me. Akong bahala."

**

*Gianna's POV*

"O, Gi. Una na kami." sabi ni Des. "Gabi na eh. OA mga kuya ko."

"Bakla! First to go na kami! Ayokong forever alone ang drama ko pag umuwi!" sabi pa ni Ashley.

Natawa nalang ako kasi totoong sobrang OA ng kuya ni Des. "O sige. Ingat kayo."

"Asan sina lolo Martin?" tanong ni Aaron.

"Para makapagpaalam kami." dugtong naman ni Denice.

"Ah. That." tita Marian frowned.

"Yes, tita?" I asked.

She smiled apologetically at me. "Sorry about this, Gi."

"About what?" I asked.

Nasagot yung tanong ko nung nakita kong papalapit sa amin sina Nathan at lolo na may daladalang gitara at bulaklak.

"Oh, boy." I heard Sam say paglabas nila ni Gian ng bahay. "Let's go inside again, Gian. I don't want you to see your dad like that." bulong pa nya kay Gian. Baliw na Sam.

"Dad? Daddy? Who?" tanong naman ni Gian habang papasok sila ni Sam sa loob. "Tito 'Athanyel, my daddy."

Napangiwi ako. Oo, anak. Sya nga. But, don't tell me...

"Uhm." Nathan stuttered paglapit sa amin. Ok. He looks damn handsome but, this is a bit... embarrassing.

"Ok!" tawa ni lolo. "After so many years, manghaharana ako. So--"

"Uhh, 'lo?" I interrupted.

"Yes, dear?"

"What are you doing?"

"We're courting you." he smiled.

I scowled at Nathan who was blushing. "Courting?"

Sinipa ni lolo si Nathan ng mahina kaya naman natawa yung mga nasa likod ko. Aw, Nathan. Ba't ngayon ka pa natorpe.

"Ah, ano. Gi, liligawan kita." Nathan smiled.

Eeeeeeh! Eto na. Parang teen ager nanaman ako. May anak na ako nyan no! Nathan kasi, pinapakilig nanaman ako.

I took a deep breath to calm myself. No. Wag padadala. Magpakipot muna, Gi! Pakipot muna! Pahirapan muna yan!

"Asa ka namang papayagan kita." I grimaced. Pero, sige, Nathan! I miss you singing songs to me.

"But, Gi..." he complained.

"Never you mind." I said instead. Bahala kang magdusa. Hehehe.

Magrereklamo din sana si lolo pero inunahan ko na. "O 'lo. Alis na daw sina Des." I told him. Then, hinarap ko na sina Des at yinakap. "Thanks for coming guys."

"Your love story is really interesting." teased Denice. Natawa nalang ako.

"Hold up, Gi." I heard Nathan say.

"What?"

"Liligawan kita kahit umabot pa tayo ng 3012, 4012, 5012 or infinity." Nathan announced. "Because you're the only person who can make my heart beat, who can make me smile and laugh without a reason, the only person who can make me feel alive, make me feel like I'm a teen ager again. Gianna, you're the only person who can make me fall. So whatever you say, I don't care and I'll continue on supporting and loving you."

Hearing that, my heart started beating fast. Maybe, no, I hope, this time, everything will turn out alright.

Chapter 59: Family. *Gianna's POV*

"Manang Lorna, nakita nyo po si Gian?" tanong ko kay manang Lorna nung nakasalubong ko sya sa sala.

Kanina ko pa kasi hinahanap si Gian. Papatulugin ko na sana kasi gabi na. Di naman nya pwedeng kasama si Sam kasi kanina pa nakauwi si Sam. Sumabay na kina Des.

"Ah. Ayun sa labas. Kasama ni Nathan sa tree house." sagot naman ni manang Lorna.

Tree house? Di ko ata napansin yun ah? "Tree house? Kelan pa nagka-tree house dito, manang?"

Nginitian nalang ako ni manang. "Ginagawa nila Nathan at Daniel yun bago pa malaman yung sakit ni Daniel. Ewan ko ba. Nung mamatay si Daniel, di na lumapit si Nathan dun. Nagtataka nga ako kung bakit sinama nya si Gian dun eh."

I sighed. Naaawa ako kay Daniel. Wala naman syang kasalanan. Pero, kahit di ako naniniwala sa karma, parang sya yung kinarma dahil sa mama nya.

"Manang Lorna," I called.

"Bakit, anak?"

"What kind of person Daniel is?" tanong ko.

Malungkot na ngumiti si manang Lorna. "Napakabait na bata. Kuh. Kung gaano kakulit ang nanay, ganon naman sya kabait. Hindi iyakin. Hindi nagrereklamo. Palangiti. Malambing. Marunong umintindi. Parang matanda na nga kung mag-isip eh."

Nginitian ko si manang Lorna. "Close kayo no manang."

"Eh kay lambing na bata eh. Parang si Gian ba? Di ko parin talaga maintindihan bakit ang layo ng ugali sa nanay. Sumalangit nawa ang kaluluwa nila."

I just nodded. Hearing that, I can feel an ache of sadness in my heart. Sure, I'm happy because I'm back to where I belong but, I never wished Daniel and Gwen to die. Especially, Daniel. He sounds like a good boy. Maybe, even I would like him. No matter how I hate his mother.

Yes. Yes, I hate Gwen. She stole everything that was mine. She stole Nathan, my family, my life and the life of my child. I'm not perfect. I'm not a saint. There are also times where I really hate Gwen. How could I not? I'm only human.

I did wish that Gwen would just disappear in our lives. But, I never wish her dead. Maybe she's just too weak of a person. Maybe she just can't afford to lose the person she loves. Maybe she can't stand on her own anymore.

"How was Nathan and Gwen's relationship before she died?" tanong ko kay manang Lorna.

Binaba muna ni manang Lorna yung dala nyang mga damit. "Ewan ko ba. Ang laki nung pinagbago ni Nathan nung umalis ka. Nahilig sa trabaho. Minsan nga, di na umuuwi. Kung andito man, hindi masyado kinikibo si Gwen. Pag lang kinukulit sya ni Gwen, dun lang mapapahaba yung usapan nila. Pero alaga nya si Daniel. Hinahanap nya rin siguro yung anak nyo dapat sa katauhan ni Daniel."

Tumango nalang ako. Siguro kung binigyan ko ng chance si Nathan noon, di kami magkakagulo.

"O ikaw, anak? Kumusta naman nung nasa ibang bansa ka?" tanong naman ni manang Lorna.

I smiled at manang Lorna. "Ayos lang naman ho. Nakapagtrabaho ako sa company ni Sam."

"Ang bait ng bata na iyon, ano?" nakangiting sabi ni manang Lorna. "Buti di kayo nagkagustuhan."

Napangiti nalang ako. "Mabait po talaga yun."

"Ma-- Mom-- Mamee!" I glanced at the door and saw Nathan standing by it and Gian running to me.

I can't help but smile. For months, Gian has a difficulty in calling me 'mommy'. I dunno why he insists on calling me 'mommy' when he can call 'mama'.

"Hi, baby." I smiled then reached and carried him. "Saan ka galing?"

"Tlee house!" he said happily. Then, he leaned closer and whispered to me. "Me and daddy are pwanning to finish the tlee house."

"Really?" I pinched his nose then glanced at Nathan who was leaning at the door.

Nathan grinned at me then came over to us. "We're planning to finish the tree house." he said. Then, he offered his arms to carry Gian. Agad namang sumama ang huli. "Right, baby? Di pa kasi tapos. Wala pang wall paint. And di pa nakabit yung bintana at pintuan. Wala pa ding laman."

Nakiki-baby na rin to ah. Isn't he so adorable? Di pa man nya alam na anak nya si Gian pero alaga na si Gian.

"Yes, tito 'Athanyel!" Gian giggled then, he turned to me. "M-Ma-Mamee, can we puhwease sleep with tito 'Athanyel? Puhwease?"

I frowned at the smiling Nathan. How suspicious. Gumagawa ng moves ang loko. "Why don't you sleep with tito Nathan? I'll be fine."

Gian pouted. "Eeeeh. I can't sleep not hugging you, Ma-M-Mamee."

"But you can hug tito Nathan."

"Eeeeh. Puhwease, M-Mom-Mamee? I'll sleep early. I pwomise."

I stared hopelessly at Gian when Nathan patted my hair. "It's ok, Gi. I'll behave."

I frowned at him. "When did you ever behave?"

"Uhh."

"Oh, come on, mamee. Tito 'Athanyel says he'll behave. He won't grab and hug you." singit naman ng makulit na bata.

Ayt! "Aba't, saan mo mo naman napulot yan ha, bata ka?"

"Kay lolo." salo naman ni Nathan.

Napailing nalang ako. Adik talaga si lolo kahit kailan.

"Ok, ok. I'll just go and take a bath." I told them. "Wag ka ng magpagod. Naligo ka na. Baka pagpawisan ka nanaman."

"Yes, mamee!" Gian cheered. Nakipag-high five pa kay Nathan.

Natawa nalang ako sa kanila. Nathan really never fails to make me happy.

**

"Gian?" I called when I entered Nathan's room.

Nilibot ko yung tingin ko sa kwarto ni Nathan. It changed alot. Kung dati, simple at wala masyadong laman, ngayon, parang naging office nya lang. I mean, may office desk, dalawa agad computer, may mga kung ano-ano pang documents and papers. Ano to, take home work?

Pero kahit ganon, nakasabit din yung wedding portrait namin. I dunno but I found that touching. I mean, instead of putting our picture away, sinabit nya pa sa wall ng kwarto nya.

"Mameee!" napangiti ako sa tawag ni Gian. Kung maka-"Mameee" eh. Kumusta naman yung "Mommy"?

Pinuntahan ko sila sa may balcony ng kwarto ni Nathan. "Hi, baby. What are you doing?"

Nathan smiled at me as Gian climbs on his lap. They really look like father and son. "We're watching the night sky." answered Nathan. "Wanna join us, gorgeous?"

I smiled. "Sure." I said. Then, I took the place beside Nathan.

We were just quiet while sitting at the wooden bench. While at it, I took the chance to watch Gian whose back was lying on Nathan's body. He was even holding and hugging Nathan's right arm.

"I thought you ended up with Sam." said Nathan after a moment. "That was the scariest idea that entered my mind."

I glanced up and watched the starry night sky. "Nope." I said. How could I end up with Sam? When he deserves someone else? He doesn't deserve me. All I did before was hurt him. I don't know why he stayed with me until the end but, I'm thankful to him.

"He fell asleep." Nathan told me. When I turned to them, Gian was sleeping soundly. "Do you still love his dad?"

Napatingin ako kay Nathan. "Yes. Yes, I love him so much that I can't believe how much I can love him."

Nathan took and held my hand. "But, he left."

"He'll be back."

"How can you be so sure?"

I held Nathan's cheek. "He's that kind of person."

"I'd fight for you and Gian." he said and stared straight into my eyes.

I smiled. "Sure, you will."

"I love you."

My heart started beating fast when he said those words. For years, I longed on hearing that words from him. He's the only person who can make those words sound special to me.

"I never stopped loving you." he said again. And when I realized it, he was kissing deeply but gently.

It was the kind of kiss that tells me that what he said was all true.

**

*Gian's POV*

Waaaa! Me is so happy! Daddy said he loves mommy! And they're kissing now! Waaaaa!

Mommy and daddy, sitting on a bench, K-I-S-S-I-N-G!

Waaa. Behave, Gian! Behave! They will find you out!

But they're kissing!

Me can see that! You behave so they kiss all night!

Ok. Me behave. But, eeeeh! They're kissing nga.

Me can see that. But you behave so they don't stop kissing!

Ok, ok. But, eeeeh! They're really ki-- uhh. They stopped kissing. How saaaaad.

That's why I told you to behave.

Hmph. But, oh! Oh! Mommy laid her head on daddy's shoulder! Waaaaaa! Don't we look like a family now?

Yes. Now you sleep.

Gee. Me is talking to meself. Gian going crazy? Me should just sleep. But, I'm so happy!! We're now really a family!

Chapter 60: Don't let history repeat itself.

*Gian's POV*

I'm so sad. Me fell asleep last night so I dunno what happened. But, when I woke up while mommy and daddy are sleeping, daddy is sleeping on the floor while me and mommy sleeps on the bed. Me was hoping that mommy and daddy would sleep together in bed with me.

"Hello, mamee." I greeted mommy when she entered the living room. "Where's tito 'Athanyel? Me didn't see him all morning."

Mommy smiled and fixed my shirt. "Baby, tito Nathan needs to work."

"Eeh. But, Gian wants to see 'im."

"He'll be back soon."

"Eeeh. I want to see him now."

"But, Gian."

"Puhwease (Please)? Pwetty pwease (Pretty please), mamee? I pwomise (promise) I'll be good." I begged. Because, I really, really, really want to see daddy.

Mommy smiled and patted my head. "Ok, ok. I'll go tell tito Nathan that you want to see him."

Really? "Yeheeey! Thank you, mamee!"

"I'll just go get my things then I'll call tito Nathan." mommy added.

I nodded happily. Waaaa. Gian so happy. Me going to see daddy! I'm going to ask daddy if we can go to the mall and play! Me wants to play with my daddy like other babies out there. Before, only daddy Sam plays with me. But, me wants to play with my daddy so me really happy because me going to play with my daddy!

Me thinks that me should not play much with daddy Sam. Because daddy Sam loves mommy. But mommy loves daddy. So if me plays with daddy Sam. Me would hurt his feelings because me wants my mommy and daddy be together. Me don't want to hurt daddy Sam because he is

nice to me. But, what can Gian do? Mommy loves daddy and daddy loves mommy. Daddy Sam is nice enough to accept that, right?

"Gian?" I turned and saw mommy waiting for me. "Tara?"

I smiled. Yeheey! I'm going to meet daddy right now!

Mommy, then, reached for my hand and together, we made our way to the car. Eeeeeeh! I'm so happy.

When we entered the car, mommy turned the car on and started driving.

I glanced at mommy and smiled at her. Then, I sat down properly because I pwomised (promised) mommy that I'll be good so I must behave. Daddy Sam told me that one must keep his pwomises (promises) or he will be punished by a thousand needles so I always keep my pwomises (promises) because I don't want to be punished by those needles and because I am a good boy.

"Gian?" mommy called. I turned and smiled at mommy. "Do you really want tito Nathan to be your daddy?"

I nodded slowly. "Yes, mamee. Me wants tito 'Athanyel to be my daddy."

"Why?"

"Why? Hmmm. Because he is my daddy."

"But you call Sam 'daddy'. Don't you like tito Sam as a daddy?"

I shook my head fast. "No, mamee."

Mommy frowned. "Bakit? I thought love mo si daddy Sam."

"Yes, mamee. I love daddy Sam. But I want tito 'Athanyel to be my daddy."

"Why?"

"Because I can play with him." I said.

"Nakikipaglaro ka din kay daddy Sam."

"Opo, mamee. But, mamee, you don't love daddy Sam. He can't be my daddy."

"I do love Sam." mommy told me.

I shook my head. "No, mamee. You love daddy Sam because he is your besplen (bestfriend). You don't kiss your besplen (bestfriend) on the lips so he can't be my daddy even though he loves you. He can't be my daddy because my daddy is tito 'Athanyel and you love tito 'Athanyel that's why he is my daddy. And tito 'Athanyel always play games with me so I like him. I can't play much with daddy Sam now because I dun (don't) wanna hurt 'im."

"Pano mo naman masasaktan si Sam?" mommy asked.

"Ehh." I scratched my head to think. How should explain it to mommy? It's compilclated (complicated). But, me should try because I told mommy I'll be good. "If me play with daddy Sam, me would hurt him because me wants tito 'Athanyel as my daddy. If me don't play much with daddy Sam, me wouldn't hurt him much because he don't love me very much. Gee. It's so clompliclated (complicated), mamee."

Mommy smiled and held my hand. "I know. Life's complicated, baby."

I just shrugged and watched the road. After a moment, the car stopped in front of a capfe (cafe). I turned to mommy. "Mamee, why al (are) we stoppin'?"

Mommy fixed my hair and shirt. "We're going to meet tito Nathan here then, we'll eat snack at the cafe."

"Really?" I asked mommy. Mommy nodded. "Yeeeeey! Thank you, mamee!"

Mommy smiled then she glanced up. "There's tito Nathan."

"Whele (where)?" me asked when me turned to the window.

"Across the road."

"Tito 'Athanyel!" me called at daddy when me saw him. He smiled when he saw me.

"Let's go, baby?" said mommy then, she stepped out of the car and went over at my side.

When mommy opened the door, I climbed down the car with mommy's help. I'm so excited!

**

*Gianna's POV*

Napaluhod ako sa tabi nila Nathan at Gian. No. It can't be. I can't lose them. I just can't.

"Dalhin nyo sila sa hospital! Dali!" I heard someone shout through the chaos.

Yes. Yes, bring them to the hospital. Please.

Nakita ko nalang na binuhat ng ilang mga kalalakihan sina Nathan at Gian na duguan. Tapos, may tumulong sa akin at inakay ako sa sasakyan kung saan sinakay sina Nathan.

Ewan paano pero, nung narealize ko, nasa hospital na kami at itinatakbo na nila sina Nathan at Gian sa emergency room.

"Ma'am? Ayos lang po ba kayo?" tanong nung isang nurse sa akin.

It was then when it sinked in to me. I can still see it in my mind's eye. Gian suddenly crossed the road after climbing down the car. He didn't even wait for me. Tapos, sinalubong sya ni Nathan kasi may paparating na sasakyan. But in the end, sila pang dalawa yung naaksidente.

Remembering it made my heart break. And when I realized it, I was crying so hard that the nurse suggested giving me something that can make me calm. But, how can I be calm? My son and his father could be dying there!

"Ma'am, please, huminahon lang po kayo. Ginagawa po namin lahat." paninigurado sa akin nung nurse tapos pumunta na kung saan dinala yung mag-ama ko.

Naiwan akong mag-isang dinadaan-daanan ng mga nagmamadaling doctor at nurse ng ER. Napasandal nalang ako sa pader habang umiyak at kumikirot yung dibdib ko. Ang sakit lang nung nakita ko. Natatakot ako. Baka may mangyaring masama sa mag-ama ko.

Napapikit nalang ako. Tukso namang pumasok sa isip ko yung itsura nila. Parehong duguan yung katawan dahil sa nabasag na windshield. Pero mas duguan si Gian kasi sya yung nasugatan ng mga bubog. Nangilabot ako sa pagkakaalala sa kanila. Wag naman sana. Hindi ko kakayanin pag nawala sila. Please don't let history repeat itself.

Napaupo ako sa sahig at niyakap yung dalawang tuhod ko. Ang sakit ng dibdib ko. Sobrang sikip. Ba't ganyan? Ang gusto ko lang naman, sumaya si Gian. Ba't napunta kami sa gantong kalagayan?

"Excuse me," I glanced up and saw an middle-aged doctor running towards me. "Kayo po ba yung kasama nung dalawang nasagasaan?"

I stood up and tried to calm myself. "Opo. Mag-ama ko po sila. B-bakit po? Kumusta na sila?"

"Stable na ang asawa mo, pero,"

"Pero ano?"

"Your son lost a lot of blood. He needs a blood transfusion. For now, natanggal na namin yung mga salaming bumaon sa katawan nila."

Napatitig ako sa doctor. "I can't possibly be the donor. My son and I have a contrasting blood type. That's why he was hospitalized for a week when he was born."

The doctor nodded. "That's actually possible. What about your husband?"

I wiped the tears away. "Can he handle it?"

"I'm pretty sure he can."

"Please. Do whatever you can." I can't let history repeat itself

Chapter 61: Happy ending don't exist.

It's been three days and it feels like hell.

"Gi, try mo muna kayang magpahinga?" sabi nila Ashley sa akin.

I smiled and shook my head. "Hindi. Ayos lang ako."

"Gi, baka naman ikaw yung magkasakit sa ginagawa mo." paalala ni Denice.

Tumango-tango si Des. "Oo nga, Gi. Gigising din sina Gian. I'm sure, ngayon sila gigising."

I smiled at them. Sana nga.

Tumayo nalang ako tapos pumunta sa kwarto nila Nathan at Gian. Hinayaan naman nila ako. Siguro naiintindihan lang nila yung kalagayan ko. Ayokong iwan yung mag-ama ko. Ang gusto ko, ako ang una nilang makikita pag nagising sila.

Pero kelan kaya yon?

Lumapit ako kay Gian para pagmasdan sya. Parang kailan lang nung ang saya nya talaga kasi nakakasama nya na yung daddy nya. Tapos, bigla-bigla, nangyari to.

I brushed some strands of Gian's hair away from his face then kissed his forehead.

Please, please Gian, wake up. I can't lose you, too, like Angel. I just can't.

I took a shaky breath to calm myself. Despite of wanting to cry, I forced myself to be strong. I need to be strong for the two of them.

Gently squeezing Gian's hand, I turned to Nathan. Lolo Martin specifically asked the hospital management to let Gian stay in Nathan's room, thinking it would help them both.

I took Nathan's hand and kissed it. Then, I gently caressed his face. "You must wake up. You're yet to know that Gian's your son. You're yet to tell us you love us. I still have to marry you in the church. Y-you can't l-leave us. Yo-you promised you'll s-st-stay f-forever by my s-side." and before I realized it, I was crying. I can't stop the tears that were richly flowing from my eyes. Because, I just can't lose him. I can't lose Nathan and Gian. I just can't. Just thinking about it makes my heart clench and beat fast painfully that I can hardly breathe. "Y-you t-t-told me that ffo-forev-ver f-feels too short i-if I'm w-with y-y-you. Yo-you c-can't leave m-m-me ag-again. Yyou j-just can't."

Watching Nathan's face made me think about the times when we were together. Like when we signed the contract that lolo made for us.

Remembering it made me smile. It seems like it was only yesterday when we signed the contract. Wagas pa kami mag-away no'n. He's still an idiot that time that calling him 'handsome idiot' really justified his annoying attitude. And, right, he even kissed me that time! Two times pa! What an idiot. Really. Haha. Pati nung nag-date kami. Grabe lang. I think that was the first time where we dated. Nakikipaglandian pa sya sa una nung iba tapos, titino rin pala. Kaya lang, grabe lang nun. Iniwan ako! Parang baliw lang pala to. Hahaha. Tapos yung mga time na nagaaway kami, grabe! Sa sobrang daming beses naming nag-aaway, di ko na matandaan kung kelan at ano yung mga dahilan ba't nag-aaway kami. Pero sure ako, kasali sa mga dahilan yung pakikipaglandian nya at pagtawag sa akin ng 'ugly stick'.

Napangiti nalang ako tapos napahigpit ng hawak sa kamay ni Nathan. "Right. You're still going to call me 'ugly stick' endearingly. Ikukwento pa natin kay Gian mga kalokohan natin noon. Kaya g-gumising na kayo."

Really, Nathan. Marami pa tayong dapat gawin. Marami pa tayong dapat ikwento kay Gian. Wag nyo akong iiwan. Ikukwento pa natin nung nagpakasal tayo kahit nag-aaway tayo. "Marami pa tayong ikukwento kay Gian. So, p-please, N-Nathan. Wake up. I don't know what I will do if I lose you two."

I held Nathan's cheek. I think my heart is in trouble beating. Seeing both Nathan and Gian like this is too much. Every beat of my heart feels like there are needles that have been piercing it a million times.

"Gianna?" I turned around and saw lolo Martin standing by the door.

I wiped the tears that made my face wet. "Yes, 'lo?"

Lumapit sa akin si lolo. Then, he hugged me assuringly. "Don't worry, dear. Gigising na sila. I promise I'll do anything to wake them up."

I patted lolo's shoulder. "I know, 'lo. I have hope on them."

Binitiwan ako ni lolo tapos hinarap at nginitian. "I'm sorry, Gi."

Napakunot ako ng noo. "Bakit, 'lo?"

Bumuntong hininga muna si lolo at linapitan si Nathan. "Ang dami kong kasalanan sa inyo. Kung sigurong hindi ko pinilit si Nathan sa kagustuhan kong mabuntis ka, hindi magmumukhang ginamit ka lang nya para makuha yung kumpanya. Kung di ko kayo pinakasal agad, di siguro kayo aabot sa ganito. Kung san--"

"'lo," I interrupted. "Relax, 'lo. There's nothing we can do." I told him then smiled. "You were just worried and acted a little childish. You're not perfect so it's normal to have mistakes. Just smile and relax 'lo. Everything will be fine."

Lolo smiled and held my cheek. "But, most of all, Gi, I want to thank you for taking care of Nathan even though he was a big idiot before, for loving and understanding him despite of everything and for helping him forgive me."

I smiled and brushed some strands of Nathan's hair that fell on his face. "I should be the one thanking you 'lo." I told lolo then, I kissed Nathan's forehead. "For giving me someone that is worth living and loving. For giving me the love that is worth all the pain I experienced."

"I just hope they both wake up." sagot naman ni lolo.

I help lolo's shoulder and squeezed it. "They will, 'lo. I trust them."

Lolo Martin just smiled and nodded. But, as much as I try hard to convince lolo Martin that they will wake up, I just can't seem to fully convince myself. There's a part of me that's really hurting because I don't know if they will survive this. All I can do is hope and wait. I really hate this. Not being able to do something while seeing your love ones in pain is just simply hell that's in earth.

"Ang drama nyong mag-lolo." I turned around and saw tita Marian watching us. "Pangteleserye lang te."

Hearing tita Marian joke about lolo and I made me chuckle. But when my eyes caught Gian, I froze.

It can't be... But... Oh, God.

"M-Mam-mee." Gian called, his voice husky.

I slowly reached for him. To touch him. To feel him again.

"Ma-Mamee. Me hungwy (hungry)." Gian said again.

Slowly, I smiled when he responded at my touch. Gian's awake. He's finally awake. He's really finally awake. "I-I'll buy you ice cream."

Gian cheered rather weakly. He's weak but he's awake. He'll be fine. I know he will be.

"Elow, lolo. 'low, lola Mayan (Marian)." he greeted lolo and tita Marian like nothing happened. But what he asked next made my heart clench tightly. "Mamee, w-why dadd-dy in't (isn't) waking up?"

There was a long silence while they wait for me to answer. But, should I tell a kid that his father is fighting for his dear life?

"He fell asleep waiting for you to wake up." it was Sam who answered.

"Elow, daddy Sam." Gian greeted. Lumapit si Sam kay Gian but lolo, tita Marian and I just watched him.

"Hello, tough guy." Sam greeted back then pinched the nose of my son. "What's this that I've heard? Suddenly crossing the road without mommy or daddy's help. Tinuro ko ba yun? Look how worried mommy is."

Gian turned stared at me. Tapos bigla na lang syang mukhang iiyak. "S-sowee (sorry), mamee. It shan't happen again."

"Gi," tita Marian called. "Pinapasabi pala nila Ashley na bibili silang makakain ng matino. Kaya nga pala pumunta ako dito."

Tumango nalang ako at ngumiti. Tapos hinawakan ni lolo yung balikat ko at tinapik.

"Maiwan muna namin kayo ng anak mo." lolo said then went and pulled tita Marian with him.

No one talked after lolo and tita Marian left us. Gian was only staring at us while Sam was ignoring me. Maybe he was angry because I decided things on my own. Or maybe there was a tiny bit of hope that we will both fall for each other but I went and broke his heart. Or maybe both.

"Sam." I called.

He smiled but, he continued on ignoring me. "I've brought you something." he told Gian.

"What?"

Sam lifted the plastic bag he was holding. "Something you love."

"Yay!" Gian cheered.

Sam went and pulled something from the plastic bag. "Grapes!"

Gian continued cheering as he held up his hands and reached for them. Tumatawa namang inabot ni Sam kay Gian yung mga ubas. Seeing Gian full of energy made me smile but the fact that Sam was ignoring me made me feel terrible.

I reached out and held Sam's shoulder. "Sam. Please."

Sam didn't answer. Instead, there was silence except for Gian's grumbling about his grapes.

"Sam, can we talk?" I tried again. It broke my heart when he removed my hand on his shoulder.

Sam leaned to Gian and kissed his forehead. "Ok, tough guy. Lalabas lang kami ni mommy. We'll go call a doctor so they can check you up. Behave, ok?"

Gian nodded while being preoccupied on eating the grapes that Sam gave. When Sam started walking, I followed. I don't know where we will be going but I just followed him. Because, we seriously need to talk.

Dumaan muna kami sa may nurse station para masabihan gising na si Gian. Ewan ko ba ba't di nalang ako nagsisigaw kanina.

Pagkatapos namin sa nurse station, nagpatuloy si Sam sa paglalakad. And we're currently standing at the rooftop of the hospital. The wind was a bit strong but that didn't bother us.

Now, Sam was standing with his back facing me a few feet away. I decided to be the one to speak. "Sam." I called. "I'm sorry."

There was silence. Maybe he was too mad at me.

"Why?" he asked, breaking the silence. And it wasn't even a comfortable silence.

"For not contacting you when I was with Nathan. For not considering your feelings. For holding unto you even though I don't love you romantically." I answered while staring on the floor. I was too guilty for all the things that I said that I couldn't even look into Sam's eyes. "I'm sorry."

"Why, Gi?" he repeated. I glanced up and saw him coming over.

It pained my heart when I saw his broken expression. All I could think was how horrible I am. How can I hurt someone who's so pure and true? How could I hurt Sam; my own bestfriend?

I almost fell on the ground due to devastation for seeing Sam like this. And when he laid his forehead on my shoulder.

"Why can't I get mad at you? Why?" he asked.

I gently ran my fingers through his hair. "I'm sorry."

"Why are you even apologizing? I'm not mad. I can't even get mad at you. You don't have to apologize, Gi." he told me. Oh, Sam. How can you be so kind? "I do love you, Gi. I really do. But I'm not going to chase after you when I know you're happy with Nathan. I can't even think of stealing you and Gian from Nathan when you both love him so much."

I don't know but hearing Sam tell that to me made me smile sadly. I hope Sam would meet his other half soon.

Pinanuod ko lang si Sam nung tumayo na sya ng maayos at diretso. Smiling at me, he pushed my hair behind my ear. "You will always be my biggest what if, though." I looked at him questioningly so he smiled and continued. "Like, what if we both fell in love with each other? What if you never fell for Nathan? What if you never met Nathan again? What if you never forgave him? What if-- what if I was the one who got married to you?"

I smiled at him. "I understand you, Sam. But there are things in life that are meant to be unknown."

"Maybe." sagot nalang ni Sam at ngumiti. "Tara? Hinihintay tayo ni Gian."

I nodded and together, we made our way back.

**

I continued on staring at the cross of Christ while sitting alone in this quiet chapel. I know I'm not a super religious person but, I just kind of ended up staying here whenever I feel scared. It's been exactly 5 days since that accident happened. At alam ko na rin ba't hindi pa nagigising si Nathan. Syempre daw kasi, sabi ng doctor, napuruhan yung ulo ni Nathan. Ipagdasal nalang daw na kahit na napuruhan ulo nya, he won't suffer with a serious head injury.

I guess we turn to God when there's something that is impossible to be done by us. But I realized that we should always turn to God whatever happens, even if they're not going the way we want them to be.

Hay. I just hope Nathan will wake up.

"Gianna." napalingon ako at nakitang papalapit sa akin si tita Marian. "Why the long face?"

I just gave her a slight smile but didn't answer.

Naupo sa tabi ko si tita Marian paglapit nya. Then, she placed her hand on my leg. "How are you? Sa dami ng mga nangyari, di na tayo masyado nakapagkwentuhan." tita Marian said. Then, she chuckled as if she remembered something funny. "Silly me. How could I ask how are you when I already know the answer?"

Nanatili lang akong tahimik pero inihiga ko yung ulo ko sa balikat ni tita Marian at hinayaan ko syang magsalita. "It hurts, isn't it?" she asked. "It just simply hurts that sometimes, you become numb."

I nodded. Kahit hindi sabihin ni tita Marian kung anong tinutukoy nya, alam ko naman. Kasi nararamdaman ko. I can feel the pain of the uncertainty if Nathan will make it.

"It's like there's a large hole in your heart." she continued. "There's even a point where you don't know which is scarier; the pain or the numbness you feel. It hurts so much when the one you love is in pain that you can't feel yourself anymore. Seeing someone you love in pain is like being in your own personal hell, isn't it?"

Napatingin ako kay tita Marian. She knows what I'm going through. She knows how painful to see someone you love in pain. She knows what personal hell feels like. She understands what I feel so much that I can still feel sadness in her voice. But, she was just staring to the cross of Christ.

"I know dear." she told me. "I know. I lost my husband and child in a painful way. I hope it won't happen to you."

I hope so, tita. I really hope.

"But, remember, dear. There's no happy ending in this world." tita Marian said, then, she took my hand and squeezed. "Just trust Him and Nathan."

There's no happy ending in this world. What a scary sentence. But, tita Marian is right. I should just trust God and Nathan.

Di na nagsalita ulit si tita Marian. Instead, we sat there quietly, trying to escape the reality of tita Marian's husband and child's deaths and Nathan's fight for his life.

But our silent sanctuary was invaded when Sam came rushing over.

"Best..." he muttered.

His expression scared and I don't know why. "What's wrong?"

"It's... It's Nathan." he told me.

Napatayo ako nung sinabi nya yung pangalan ni Nathan. "What's wrong with Nathan?"

"His heart." Sam said. And what he told me next broke my whole being. "It stopped beating."

Not hearing another word, I ran to Nathan's room. I didn't even take notice to Gian who was sitting outside his dad's room. But, I almost fell down on the ground when I saw the cardiac monitor showing a straight line and giving off an unending beep sound.

"No. It can't be. It just can't. What's wrong Nathan? You can't leave me. You can't leave Gian. He's waiting for you to come home. He's already outside so you just can't l-leave us." I think I heard my voice break, but, I just want Nathan to hear them.

I think there was a commotion because I heard unfamiliar voices. Maybe they were doctors. Maybe nurses. I don't really care. I just want Nathan to hear my voice.

"Nathan. Please. Don't leave me." I begged him while holding his hand like it was his life. "I'm going to punch your face if you die like this."

Napapikit nalang ako nung tumulo na yung mga luhang di maubos-ubos kahit halos araw-araw kung umiyak ako.

Please wake up. Please, Nathan. Hear my plea, please.

"Whatever did I do to be punched?"

I think my tear glands stopped producing tears when I heard that familiar voice. Napabukas ako agad ng mata para lang makita si Nathan na pinapanood ako.

"I... I..." I stammered. It can't be. "I... Di ba... Di ba p-patay ka na?!"

"Pinapatay mo ako?"

"But the cardiac monitor..." I said. But, I never got the chance to continue what to say when doctors enterd Nathan's room.

"EXCUSE ME-- Ma'am..." napahinto din yung mga doctor.

How can they not be? The cardiac monitor was still showing a straight and giving of a loud beep.

"What happened to the cardiac monitor?" I heard the nurse they were with asked.

"Ha?" sabi naman ni Nathan. "Connected ba yun sa something na nakalagay sa katawan ko?"

The nurse nodded.

"Tinanggal ko eh. Nangangati eh. Di ko alam na importante." dagdag pa ni Nathan.

...

Silence covered us. I saw tita Marian and Sam watching us by the door.

And when what Nathan said sinked in, there's only one thought running on my mind: what the heck is wrong with this idiot?!

"SIRA KA BA, NATHAN?! ALAM MO BA KUNG GAANO KAMIP NAG-AALALA TAPOS MINSAN MO LANG AALISIN YUNG SOMETHING NA SABI MO?! OO, SOMETHING KASI HINDI KO ALAM ANG TAWAG DUN PERO, BALIW KA BA?!!?" I screamed at him. No, really! How can he be such an idiot?!

"Iwan nyo po muna sila. Baka madamay pa tayo." I heard Sam say but I didn't looked over them.

"Relax lang mahal." Nathan said while trying to calm me. "I woke up but there's no one in the room. Kaya nga nadatnan mo akong natutulog kasi natulog ako uli."

"I don't care! How can you be such an idiot!?"

He stared at me. "Do you want me to die?"

"Of course not, you crazy idiot!" I screamed. I don't know but I just can't help but scream at him.

But, seeing him like this; alive and all, made my heart so happy.

But I really just can't stop making him realize how idiotic he is!

"I've been crying and begging you for days to wake up!"

"You were crying?"

Ay hindi man! "I've been waiting for you so that I can marry you again! I've been telling you that your son is waiting for you! I have already prayed to God and all the saints to wake you up but you'll just do something stupid as that! I've--"

"Gi,"

"WHAT?!?"

"Relax."

"How can I do--"

"Just marry me!"

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN 'MARRY ME' WHEN I'M STILL-- mad... at... you..."

Marry me.

Marry me.

He's asking me to marry him.

Asdfhgkhka.

Huh?

"She can't marry you." we turned and saw lolo (whenever did he arrived?!) and tita Marian eavesdropping at us.

"WHAT ARE YOU GUYS DOING?! WHAT DO YOU MEAN I CAN'T MARRY HIM?!" I groaned. I mean, oh come on. I've beem waiting for him to tell me that for ages!

"Yeah. Why? What about my son?" tanong din ni Nathan. "We need to get married. Besides, we signed a contract before so we have to marry each other."

"Teka." I said slowly. "You know that Gian's your son?" I asked. Nathan nodded. "How?"

"You told me earlier. So that's why I really like him!"

"Oh." nasabi ko nalang. Ang dali lang maka-move on ng mokong.

"Anyway," Lolo grinned mischievously at us. "What Gianna signed was the original copy of divorce papers. What you signed was an agreement that you will never marry any other girl except Gianna. Aren't I too intelligent?"

I groaned. "Lolo naman eh."

Tita Marian made a face. "Hala. Yabang mo, kuya. Tinuruan lang kita."

"Shh. Wag ka nga." sita naman ni lolo.

But in the end, we just ended up laughing.

God, I'm so glad You didn't took Nathan away. I really am. I'm just so happy that I'm already satisfied.

"That's great. Let's get married again, Gi." Nathan told me while smiling.

I can't help but smile. But, I prevented myself from doing it. Pahirapan muna natin. Iyak palang ako ng iyak dahil sa kanya. "We're already married so why do I have to marry you? Isn't it a waste of money and time? We're married and that's that. It's already fine. We don't need to--"

And I found myself kissing Nathan. How I wonder how he can make me feel like I'm the most beautiful and most loved person in the world.

Oh, God. How I missed him.

"Shut up and marry me again, ok?" he told me after ending the sweet, short kiss.

I touched the tip of his nose. "Ok."

"I love you."

"I love you more."

"I love you to infinity and beyond." he smiled. I can't help but smile to. It feels like all the worry and pain were gone when I heard his voice earlier.

Napatingin ako nung marinig kong tumikhim si lolo. But, they were just smiling at us.

"Maiwan na muna namin kayo at nilalanggam na kami dito." tita Marian chuckled. "And, Gi. What I said was true, right? Happy endings don't exist because true love never ends."

I nodded in agreement for what she said was true. Happy endings will only exist in fairytales after all.

Epilogue: The End

"Mameeeeee!"

I smiled when I saw Gian running to my direction.

"Hi, baby." I leaned down and kissed his cheek when he reached me. "How's your day?"

"'twas (It was) ok, mamee." Gian answered and took my hand. Together, we headed to our house while he's swinging our hands. "Me saw a gweyt (great) movie with lola Mayan. 'twas called 'Aladdin'. Sabi ni lola Mayan, I should be as bweyb (brave) as 'im. 'pecially (Especially), in luurve (love)."

"That's great, then." I smiled. Disney movies ata trip ngayon ni tita Marian at hindi na Barbie. At talagang tinuturo na sa anak kong ang love eh halos kaka-three lang ng anak ko noong April 29. Hay, parang ewan lang. "Did you ate your snack? Your dad texted me. Di mo daw kinain ang lunch mo."

He grimaced when I mentioned lunch. "Eeeeh, mameee. The gulays taste so bad. I dun (don't) like it,"

Napakunot noo ako sa kanya. Ang anak ko talaga. Kahit gaano pa ka-mature mag-isip minsan, nangingibaw parin pagiging bata. "Di ba I told you to eat vegetables? How will you grow up handsome nyan?"

"I'm sorry, mamee. I will tly (try) to eat gulays next time."

"Good." I smiled at him. Then, I remembered my surprise. "Ok, Gian. Magbibihis lang ako then, pagdating maya-maya ni daddy, I have a surprise to tell."

At once, I saw his face lit up excitedly. "Oh, mamee. Can you tell me now? Pweaaaaase?"

I leaned down and kissed him. "Sorry, dear. We have to wait for dad. We don't want to spoil the secret, do we?"

Gian nodded. "Ok, mamee."

I smiled. "Now, go take a shower first before we eat dinner later." I told him.

"Manang Lorna!" I called. Hinintay ko munang lumapit si manang Lorna bago magsalita ulit. "Pwedeng pakihilamos na po si Gian?"

Tumango at ngumiti naman si manang Lorna. Then, together with Gian, they headed to Gian's room while talking animatedly. Gustong gusto ni Gian si manang Lorna eh. Kinukwento kasi mga kabulastugan namin ni Nathan noon. This was really enjoyed by the latter.

Umakyat na rin ako pagkatapos sa kwarto namin ni Nathan. While on it, nadaanan ko pa yung wedding portrait namin ni Nathan nung first wedding namin. You must be curious why I still haven't mentioned anything about our supposed-to-be wedding again. That's because, I only agreed to marry him our 8th wedding anniversary which is like three months from now. What's the reason? Nothing special but, the number 8 reminds me of the infinity sign.

I laid the brown envelope that I was carrying earlier on the study table. This envelope contains a certain surprise which I'm sure you're dying to know about. Even I almost died of happiness when I learned about the surprise.

Deciding to take a short bath, I headed to the bathroom. I'm now working as the head architect of our own Miguel Group. As you all very well remember, Sam and I left our job to live in Paris. I left my entire job in Lopez Group, but, as for Sam, that was just like a long vacation.

The unconscious thought about my bestfriend made me smile sadly under the shower. I wonder how he is. I last so him months ago, when Nathan just woke up. Then, he suddenly left, not even telling a goodbye to me, and when I realized it, he was back at Lopez Group at New York. Sadly, according to Des, he did all this; leaving without saying anything, because of the pain he was feeling. Des told me that Sam was really happy to see me happy. It's just that, he loved me too much to the point that accepting that I'll only love Nathan really hurts.

Des said he left without smiling. Oh, how horrible am I? But Sam made Des tell me not to blame myself for it was his fault for loving me. I was just being true to myself. So now, day by day, I'm still reminding myself to do what Sam told me and not blame myself. I mean, he knows what's best for the two of us.

But I just wish I could see him smile again.

I really should just remind myself about what Des told me. That I should just let Sam be on his own for a while. Nalulungkot lang ako pag naiisip ko eh. Hay.

Ay, wait. Did I ever tell you that Ashley and Destiny are getting married? I mean, it came as a shock for all of us, too! Kaya lang, may something ata kaya at magpapakasal na nyan sila. Kung alam mo lang reaction ni Ashley! Parang sinabihan lang sya na walang ng gwapo sa mundo. Hahahaha. It's actually really funny. They're set up is so bizarre. Pati sina Denice and Aaron, pinagtatawanan sila.

And, ah. Those two weirdos. Break sila pero 'best' or 'bestfriend' ang tawagan. Ewan ko ba ba't di pa magbalikan eh ang sweet sa isa't isa. Mashowbiz lang. Ang tatanda na eh. But I heard someone's courting Denice so I give my goodluck to Aaron.

After a while, I ended my bath. Pagkatapos ko magbihis, lumabas na akong banyo para madatnan si Nathan na mukhang kadarating lang.

"Hi, Gorgeous." he kissed me.

I smiled. "Hello."

"Gian's waiting for you downstairs." he told me as he remove his watch.

"Really?" I asked. He nodded. "Do you want me to wait for you?"

"No. I want you to join me." he grinned mischievously. "Too bad you already took a bath."

Natawa nalang ako. "Shut up and go take a bath."

He grinned. I really should remind myself how those dimples make my knees go weak. "I love you." he told me.

I smiled, knowing it was true. "I love you more."

"I love you most." he reminded me, then, entered the bathroom.

And, shoot. Those simple words made my heart flip happily. Napangiti nalang ako tapos, pinuntahan ko na si Gian.

Nung nadatnan ko sya, he was busy watching a movie from Star Movies. Up ata pinapanuod. I didn't distract him because I know that that movie is really good.

Gian sometimes surprises me. On how mature he thinks, I mean. Sure, he reasons just exactly how kids on his age reasons but, his reasons are deep. I mean, he have some deep explanation about his reasons. And he understands about how others think. He even told me once that "daddy Sam wili (really) loves mamee but mamee loves daddy and daddy loves mamee back and because daddy Sam loves mamee, daddy Sam won't be breyb like Aladdin because if he did, mamee will be sad. That's exactly Gian's words! I dunno where he learns all of that.

After a few minutes, bumaba na si Nathan. And he's carrying the envelope! Ugh. Di na surprise nyan. Nawala kasi sa isip ko eh.

"Gorgeous wife, what's this?" he asked. Sasagot na sana ako kaya lang natawa ako sa next na sinabi nya. "X-ray ba to? May pilay ka or something?"

This time, I really laughed out loud. How could he think that that what he is holding is a picture of X-ray? Hahaha!

"Why mamee's laughing?" Gian asked.

I giggled. "Nothing, baby." I told him. Then, I face Nathan and giggled again. "Do you seriously think that that's an X-ray?"

Nathan shrugged. "I dunno. It looks funny."

Natawa nalang ako. "I really love how dumb you are sometimes."

"Ano ba to?" tanong nya habang iniikot-ikot yung hawak.

"A picture!" Gian commented. I kissed the top of his head then got up and reached out for Nathan's hand.

When he gave it, I placed it on my belly. He looked at me questioningly. "I have a great surprise." I smiled. "Nathan, that's not an X-ray."

"What is it?"

I drank the warmness of his palm in my belly. "I'm pregnant."

I can see shock register in his face as he stares at my belly. "Y-you're pregnant?" he asked. I nodded. "You're pregnant. Oh, God. Oh, God." he stammered. Then, like it was finally sinking in, he laughed out loud and hugged me tight.

It made my heart swell with joy.

"GIANNA'S PREGNANT! MY WIFE'S PREGNANT!" he said out loud happily, I just can't help but smile. "We're going to have another baby!"

"Baby?" Gian breaks in. "Oooh! A baby! Mamee and daddy will hab (have) a baby? It'll call me 'kuya'?"

Nathan reached and carried Gian. "Yes, handsome. You're now a big brother! Doesn't that make you happy?"

"Really?" Gian asked eagerly. I nodded. Then, he clapped his hands and cheered with Nathan. Pati si manang Lorna, napalapit na sa amin nung narinig yung balita at napapa-yehey pa kasama nila Gian.

Watching them like this made me happy. And, all I could think was, lolo gave me the most amazing gift ever. We should visit him tomorrow and tell the news personally.

Oh, lolo. I wonder how he is doing at home. Tita Marian, too. Last week ko pa sila huling nakita due to my work. Napadalas kasi punta ko sa site namin. But I heard that lolo's been busy while tita Marian always visit Gian here. And, oh. I almost forgot. Did you know who was lolo and tita Marian's accomplice? It was Ashley! I know, I was surprised, too. But when, I asked Ashley about this, she (LOL) told me that she never thought that Nathan and I would be apart. From the moment that she noticed how different Nathan and I treat each other, she realized that maybe, just maybe, Nathan and I were meant for each other. Akala daw nya kasi, di na ako hahanap ng iba dahil sa ex ko. Maybe, I really won't. But, thanks to Ashley, lolo, tita Marian and my friends, I was able to find someone who was worth searching for. And he was just in front of my eyes, huh! What funny and mysterious thing love is.

And, it feels like Nathan kissed me a million times when I realized that as long as everything's not alright, it's not yet the end. But, because now that everything's perfect, maybe this is the perfect time to end this and start a new beginning.

Nothing can really last forever, they say. But, I think that love can do.

The end.

Hm. 'The end' is a bit too sad. Let me repeat it and add something.

The end...

For now.