Chapter 50

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"Are you sure, ayaw mo'ng mag stay sa bahay?" Rihanna asked her once again before they enter in her property. Na pansin marahil nito na tulala siya.

"I can manage. Do not forget that this is my house too." She replied to her.

"I understand. Just give me a call anytime you need both of us." Pinisil pa nito ang kanyang kamay.

"Of course I'll call and that would be because of my beautiful Tanya, right?" She sarcastically says and gave Tanya a kiss in her cheeks. Humagikgik naman ito.

"This is how far we can escort you---

"I'll be fine. Relax, will ya?" She said with a bit of irritation.

"Alright, alright. Don't become beast mode, 'kay?" Rihanna said while stopping her by her hands. Hindi nag tagal ay umalis na ang mag ina. Nag flying kiss pa si Tanya sa kanya. Nag bugay muna siya ng hangin bago tuluyang pinindot ang doorbell.

"S... Seniorita?" Tanong ng pamilyar na lalaki na tila nagtataka o tila hindi ito makapaniwala.

"Open the door. Kanina pa ko naka tayo." She said at him.

"Naku, ikaw nga! Nana! Nana! Nana Margarita! Si seniorita bumalik na!" Sigaw pa nito na ubod ng lakas.

"Shut up. Sinabing papasukin mo muna ako. Gusto mo bang matanggalan ng trabaho?" Na iinis niyang sita dito.

"Seniorita, hindi ka pa din nag babago." Napapa kamot naman na komento nito at pinag buksan na siya ng gate nito.

"Hija! Diyos ko panginoon ko! Mabuti naman at na isipan mong umuwi." Niyakap agad siya ng matanda habang nang gigilid ang mga luha nito sa kagalakan.

"Nana, naman. Huwag ka naman umiyak." Saway niya dito at niyakap din ito.

"Pumayat kang lalo. Pero di' bale papatabain kita at aalagaan para naman magka laman ka." Magiliw na sabi nito sa kanya.

"Nana, I'm just here to held a meeting, officially. Hindi din ako mag tatagal. A week or may be a two. I don't know how long basta hindi matagal. Gusto lang kita dalawin." She said to her. Bigla naman nawala ang mga ngiti nito sa labi.

"Bakit naman aalis ka--

"Ikaw higit man Nana ang nakaka alam kung bakit." She cutt her off. Bigla naman itong na tahimik.

"Halika na nga, pumasok ka muna sa loob at magha hain ako. Kamusta ang biyahe, mahaba ba? Julius, buhatin mo na ang bagahe ang Seniorita mo." Utos nito sa lalaki. Mabilis naman itong sumunod.

Walang nag bago sa kanilang mansyon. It was the same old mansion her parents and her Lolo live in when they were still alive. The interior and exterior design was still the same. Maayos ang pag aalalagang ginawa ng kanyang Nana. She wanted to cry but, her heart was so numb already to feel the aches of her sentiments. Nag hain na ang kanyang Nana at sa kulit ng matanda ay hindi siya titigilan nito hanggang hindi na ito pinagbi- bigyan.

"Kumain ka ng marami, Hija. Na miss talaga kita." Hinalikan pa siya nito sa buhok. Ngumiti naman siya ng ka unti dito. At mukhang hinanap din talaga ng panlasa niya ang luto ng kanyang Nana kaya naman naparami siya ng kain kahit ayaw niya dahil sa sarap ng luto nito.

"Nana, nga pala may tatlong babaeng pumunta dito kanina. Inabot nila ito sa akin. Invitation daw. Hindi ko pa naman na bubuksan. Kay Seniorita kasi naka pangalan." Julius said while holding the silver envelop. Kinuha naman niya iyon mula dito.

Hello, Alumnus!

You are all invited in our college reunion!

This Saturday May 06, 2016

@ our University gym.

Let's catch up for a decade of our friendship!

See you!

May ilang sandali siyang na bigla. Hiniling niya na sana ay mali lamang ang sulat na iyon at na hindi talaga iyon para sa kanya. Ngunit impossble iyon dahil may pangalan niya sa ibaba. Biglang nan lamig ang kanyang batok at hindi niya sinasadyang mabitiwan ang invitation.

"Hija, okay ka lang ba? Namumutla ka." Tanong ng kanyang Nana sa kanya. Ngunit wala siyang na intindindihan sa mga sinabi nito.

(I... I don't wanna s.. see them... and h... him.) Tumayo siya ng dahan dahan sa lamesa at sinimulan ng umakyat ng hagdan pa tungo sa kuwarto niya. Hindi niya alam ang mararamdaman o ang kanyang iisipin.

(It has been almost 10 years) She said to convince herself to avoid thnking. Ngunit hindi iyon tumalab. Dahan dahan niyang binuksan ang pinto ng kanyang kuwarto at ng isara niya iyon ay bumagsak na maging ang kanyang mga tuhod. Na pa sandal siya sa likod ng kanyang pinto.

Narinig niyang tumunog ang kanyang cellphone kaya inilabas niya iyon ng marahan mula sa kanyang bulsa. And it was Rihanna who was calling her. Marahil nakuha din nito ang invitation nito kasabay niya. She might be worried kaya ito tumatawag. Unti unting bumabalik ang alaala niya na tila kahapon lamang. Bigla tuloy siya nakaramdam ng pagsisikip ng dibdib. Hanggang sa hindi na siya naka hinga.

"W.. Where's my pi.. pills?" Hawak ang dibdib niyang hanap sa kanyang pills mula sa kanyang bag. Itinaktak niya ang laman ng kanyang bag upang mabilis niya iyong mahanap. Natataranta na siya dahil hindi na siya maka hinga. Nang makita niya iyon ay tatlo agad ang kanyang ininom.

"Diyos ko naman. Mali ba ang desisyon ko na umuwi? Should I go back?" She said frustratedly to herself.

"Sobrang sakit.. Ayoko na.." She can't help but, said miserably. If she can go back 10 years ago. She will never commit that stupid mistake again. She will be wiser. If she can just bring back the time. Gusto man niyang umiiyak ay wala na siyang luha na natitira pa. May ilang sandali pa siyang nasa ganoong ayos ng tumwag na namang muli si Rihanna.

"Oh." Iyon lamang ang lumabas sa kanyang mga labi.

(You receive it too, right? You don't have to come if you are not ready. Hindi naman iyon mu--)

"I.. I'll g.. go.." Halos hindi na lumabas sa kanyang bibig. And Rihanna didn't say anything. Mukhang hindi nito inakala na a- attend siya.

(H.. Hey, you d..don't have to force yourself. I can say na you are still in LA--

"I'll go for me to be able to stop being like this. Tomorrow I want to have a meeting with the share holders. Just inform them that I'm back just to meet everyone, officially." Iyon lamang ang kanyang sinabi at ibinaba na ang linya.

"Tito, yeah it's me. It has been a while. But, can you do me a favor? Alam kong matagal tayong hindi nag kita pero I really need your help. Thank you so much. I'll treat you something nice.." That Atty. Santos their family lawyer.

"Once is enough, twice will be too much. I will never go down twice." She said to herself while gritting her teeth.

-----

"Are you ready?" Tanya asked her before she opens the door for her.

"Are you mocking me?" Taas kilay niyang tanong dito. At siya na mismo ang nag bukas ng pinto sa conference room. She walks through the door confidently. Hindi niya pinansin ang madaming mga mata na naka tingin sa kanya.

Ang lahat ay marahil nagtataka kung paano ang isang batang gaya niya ay kayang pamunuan ang isa sa pinaka malaking chain of Malls sa buong bansa and soon to be internationally.

"Good Morning everyone. I know this is late. But, I want to formally introduce myself to all of you. I'm Rence Isabelle Legaspi, the standing Chairwoman and CEO of Prime Malls International." She introduce herself.

"I know there would be some of you are laughing in their mind right now. And there would be others questioning why I am here and of corse there would always be some who are cursing me at the moment.. It's fine.. really." Nakita naman niyang na gulat ng bahagya ang kanyang mga kaharap dahil sa mga sinabi niya. But, she is just being honest.

"I don't care if you hate me or like me. Because I'm here to make profit not friends. To make all of you richer than you are now." Sabi niyang muli may ilang na pa biling sa sinabi niya but, she doesn't care.

"So, all I need is your hard work and support. And I'm also not here just to say hello to everyone. I am here to announce that I will be building another Prime Mall in LA and in Hong Kong as well. I intend to do it this year.." She declared at them. At doon na nag simulang magka gulo.

"B.. But, that would be a suicide! We can't let that happen." Kontra ng isang lalaki na tila nasa mahigit 50 years old na.

"Yeah, that's right. That was insane." Segunda naman ng isa.

"My Middle name was insane. I am not here to asked permission from all of you. This is a f-- She would like to say a joke pa sana but, everyone was seriously angry as of the moment.

"But, you are using our money. Of corse we can stop you." Another old man cut her from talking.

"Okay, okay. Everyone, shhhhhhh. Silence in the court. Silence please.." Saway niya sa mga ito at kinalikot ang kanyang tainga dahil tila nasa sabong sila. Napaka ingay ng mga ito.

"Why do we have to always do a safe move when we can do a checkmate.." And now she was the one questioning them.

"This is not a joke. If you continue to push this through. I'm sorry, kahit hindi ako patawarin ni Senior we will pull out all of our shares." Babala ng isang lalaki sa kanya na mukhang nasa early 60's nito.

"Yeah, he is right!" Segunda na naman ng isa sa mga ito.

"Can you let me finished? I said listen!" She said while standing in the table. Na gulat ang lahat kaya biglang tumahimik ang mga ito.

"What I'm doing is just an FYI. You can look at that copy I already found investors for our new branches and they already signed the papers. I also got the fund from them. Are you saying that I should return it?" Naka ngisi niyang tanong sa mga ito. Mukhang nakuha naman ng mga ito ang sinasabi niya at biglang nag bawi.

"See, I told you it was possible. Do you know that our Mall was really a big hit in LA? They like all of our products because it was cheaper and the quality was really good." Pagyayabang pa niya sa mga ito.

"I decided to build it internationally so, that every time our Filipino overseas goes to our mall. They can feel like they are home. And that's the concept." And this time she was really sincere. Iyon naman kasi talaga ang kanyang goal.

"Bravo! I agree with her!" An old lady shouted from the corner. Pumapalakpak pa ito kaya hindi nag tagal nagpalakpakan na din lahat para sa kanya.

"Thank you and nice meeting all of you." She said while smiling with everyone.

"Wh.. What happen? Bakit parang nagkakagulo kayo?" Rihanna asked her pagka labas niya ng conference room.

"Oh, that was nothing." She said as if nothing happened and she flicked her hair confidently.

"So... This is what a chairwoman table looked like. Not bad.." Puri niya sa kanyang office na may kalakihan. It has everything she will be needing. Desk, computer, books, couch and even rest room.

"How amazing.. Sayang lang at hindi ko ito magagamit ng matagal.." May himig siyang panghihinayang and she let a very deep sigh.

"Do you have any plans today?" Rihanna asked at her.

"Nothing, why?" Balik niyang tanong dito.

"Spend a night with me and Tanya today." Hindi niya alam kung ano ang na kain nito but, before she realizes it. Nasa bahay na siya nito.

"Ninang!" Yakap sa kanya agad ng bata. If Riley is alive right now. Marahil magkasing edad halos ang mga ito. And they might become best friends too. And she removed that painful memories as faster as she can. Because.. She don't want to look pitiful in front of them.

"Hi, kiddo. You missed me that much already?" She said while faking a cheerful voice.

"Tanya, malapit na akong mag selos. Where's my kiss?" Biro ng ina nito dito. And she gave her mom a kiss pagkatapos ay niyakap siyang muli.

"Na saan pala si Inang Mely? Umuwi na ba siya?" That's her baby sitter marahil. Araw araw itong nagba bantay kay Tanya ngunit the Nanny can't stay for 24hours dahil arawan din ito kung umuwi.

"Yep. She just got home, Mom. Kanina ka pa nga niya iniintay." Sagot ni Tanya dito.

"It's fine. You are a good girl naman kaya okay lang na ma late ako ng ilang oras." Naka ngiting sabi ng ina.

"But, Mom I always miss you everyday. Gusto ko lagi kitang kasama." Tila oagtatampo ng bata sa kanya. Tila naman parang kinurot ang puso nilang dalawa sa sinabi nito.

"Sorry na. Sandali.. Sweetie, mag hain muna ako. Isabelle, ma upo ka muna. " Takas ng ina sa coversation ng mga ito.

"Ninang, nga pala. Can you help me with my assignments?" Tanong ng bata at kinuha ang libro nito.

"I am not good with assignments.." Kontra pa niya ngunit mabilis itong tumakbo.

"Ninang.. Ninang.. Sagutin mo naman to'." The nine year old little girl asked at her.

Ito ang anak ni Rihanna. Ang schoolmate na tinulungan niya noong muntik na itong magpakamatay when she was in her last year in College. Naalala pa nga niya ang pagka bali ng kanyang balikat dahil dito. At tuluyan na sana iyong mababali kung hindi siya tinulungan ni...

Well, whatever. That's dangerous. Bakit nga ba niya binubuhay ang matagal ng namatay niyang alaala? That was ages ago. Kaya nga was ibig sabihin ay nakaraan na. Hindi na kailangan pang balikan at dapat na lamang kalimutan.

Backing to what she was saying. She offered Rihanna a job after she gave birth to this beautiful and loving child. And she also take care of all the hospital bills. Tinulungan niya ito sa lahat, financially. Ang kapalit ay ang pagiging secretary nito.

Kinailangan na kasi niya talaga ng secretary para sa kompanya. Iyong personal talaga at mapagkakatiwalaan niya sa lahat ng bagay. She personally taught her. Mabilis naman itong matuto at madaling turuan kaya in just a month ay malaki ang naging tulong nito sa kanya.

At wala yatang araw na hindi ito nagpa salamat sa kanya. She doesn't know if it was still count in hundreds or may be a thousands already. And it has been nine years since then. Kay bilis lumipas ng panahon ngayon ay malaki na ang anak nito na nag iisa niyang inaanak.

"Tungkol saan ba 'yan?" She asked at the cute girl. Kinuha niya ang notebook dito at tinignan iyon. Na tigalgal naman siya ng na basa ang topic ng assignment nito.

Love..

"What the?! Tanya, I'm gonna sue your teacher tomorrow. Ano ba 'yang tinuturo niya? Pag ibig? You are still a child kaya hindi niyo pa dapat 'yan pinag aaralan." A bit anger and bitterness came from her. Ano ba ang itinuturo ng mga teacher nito? Ka bata bata pa ni Tanya. Gusto ba ng mga ito na umibig ang mga bata at masaktan ka agad? Stupid teachers.

"Tinuturuan ba kayo ng teacher niyo na maagang mag---

"H.. Huh? Ano po 'yon? Hindi ko po maintindihan." Na guguluhan naman na tanong nito sa kanya nang hindi niya matapos ang kanyang sinasabi. Naka tingin lamang ito sa kanya ng taimtim.

"N.. Ninang naman.. Sagutan mo na. Please?" Pangungulit naman nito sa kanya.

"I am just a baby sitter here at hindi tutor. Wait for your mom and make her answer that. Hindi ko alam 'yang assignment mo." Pag tanggi naman niya dito.

"Bakit ninang? Wala ka bang love? Hindi ka pa na nagmamahal?" Sunod sunod na tanong nito. Pakiramdam naman niya ay tinamaan siya ng sunod sunod na pana sa kanyang puso. Why does it hurts so, much? Love lang naman ang pinag uusapan.

"Ikaw ang dami mong alam. Manang mana ka sa nanay mo. Ang bata bata mo pa. Fine, give me that." May himig na inis niyang sabi at kinuha ang notebook nito. Tumabi siya dito at sumalpak na din sa sahig.

"Give me a minute." Sabi niya dito habang naka ngiti naman ito. This girl is a little devil. Alam nito kung paano nito makuha ang gusto nito. And she start answering her assignment. Ilang sandali pa ay na tapos na siya. It was a one paragraph answer.

"N... Ninang naman. Mali naman itong sagot mo." Mangiyak ngiyak naman na sabi ni Tanya ng mabasa ang kanyang sagot.

"H.. Huh? Patingin nga? Eh tama naman ang sagot ko. Paano mo naman an sabi na mali ako? Eh di' sana ikaw na lang ang gumawa." Depensa niya dito.

"B.. Basta ninang. Mali nga." Naka sibangot at tila iiyak na sabi nito sa kanya. Sakto naman na dumating na ang ina nito dala ang pagkain mula sa kusina. Agad naman itong lumapit sa nanay nito.

"Mommy! Mommy!" Takbo nito sa ina.

"Yes, sweetheart? Ano'ng nangyari." Nag aalala naman na tanong nito sa malungkot na anak.

"Si ninang kasi.. Mali 'yung sagot niya sa assignment ko. Ayaw pa niyang ulitin." Sumbong naman nito sa ina.

"Patingin nga?" Riyanha said to her daughter pagkatapos ma ibaba ang kanyang grocery sa lamesa.

"Love is just an illusion. It is not true and isn't real. It is just a chemical reaction to the brain called attraction and when the chemical reaction is gone. The love is ended."

"It is a way of thinking created by fools who thought that they'll find happiness towards another person. They expect everything will turn out as they want to and they forgot about what reality is all about."

"Love is like a fairytale. It does not exist and not for real. And for those who still believe on it will just suffer and broke their hearts to something that will never happen-- a happy ending."

"I... Isabelle?! How can you write this. It was such a scary thought. Ano ka ba?! Kaya naman pala na gagalit sa'yo itong si Tanya." Riyanha hissed at her. Nag lihis lang naman siya ng tingin at nag kibit balikat dito.

"I just answer it my way. Totoo naman 'yan." Depensa niya dito.

"You know it is wrong. Even my young daughter knows it. Sweetheart, give it to mommy. Ako na ang sa sagot. So, don't be depressed 'Kay?" Paninita naman nito sa kanya and she just rolled her eyes. Pinunit naman nito ang ang isang bahagi ng papel ng notebook nito na maynlaman ng kanyang sagot at itinapon iyon sa basurahan.

"I told you, Tanya. Hindi ko alam ang sagot. Tignan mo na, itinapon lamang ng mommy mo ang pinag hirapan ko." Baling naman nita sa kanyang inaanak.

"Eh mali naman kasi." Kampi nito sa ina nito at na tawa naman ang ina nito.

"Yeah, right. What a bias answer." She said with a bit coldness.

"So, what is Theo pala?" Naka ngising tanong ni Rihanna sa kanya.

"Companion." Tipid na sagot niya at tumawa naman ito.

"Tama na nga 'yan. Tumigil na kayong dalawa at kumain na muna tayo. I still need to talk to you about something." Rihanna said at na pa lingon naman siya dito bigla. Why is she so serious?

"About what? You sounds so, serious." Curious naman niyang tanong dito.

"M... Mamaya na lang. Kumain muna tayo. Ma upo na kayo ni Tanya." Anyaya naman na nito sa kanya na kumain muna bago sila mag usap.

"You are scaring me. Ang bait mo yata." Na guguluhan niyang sabi dito at na upo na sa lamesa.

"Matagal na akong mabait. Hindi mo lang alam dahil manhid ka." Balik naman nito sa kanya.

"Well, that was half true." She just coolly admit it.

Hindi nag tagal ay na tapos na silang kumain. Tahimik ang hapag ka inan. Parang may nagba- badyang hindi maganda. It was such an awkward luch na dati naman ay hindi nila nararanasan. She sense something odd.

"So, how was your day?" Baling sa kanya ni Rihanna matapos itong makapag hugas ng pinggan at siya naman ay naka upo lamang sa lamesa.

"Stop beating around the bush. Just, sit and spill it out." She frankly said to her.

"Anak, manuod ka muna ng tv. Mag usap lang kami ng Ninang mo." Rihanna asked at her daughter. Mabilis naman itong sumunod.

"I... I... I... Gusto ko na sana mag resign as your secretary." She declared at her. Bahagya siyang na gulat ngunit hindi naman siya nag bigay ng kahit anong emosyon o expression dito.

"Can you give me a reason for that?" Simpleng balik niya dito.

"It's j..just that I want to spend more time with Tanya. She is growing up kaya gusto ko sana sa bawat bahagi ng buhay niya ay nandoon ako at kasama niya." She said while sounding like a simple and sincere mother to her daughter.

"Am I paying you less? Do you want some increase?" Hindi niya mapigilan na tanong dito dahil sa pagiging unreasonable nito bigla.

"N.. No. Of corse not! What you were paying was more than enough. Ang lahat ay utang namin sa'yo. This house, Tanya's schooling and everything that we had as of now." May himig ng pagpapasalamat sa tono nito. And she just continue to listen to her.

"A... Alam mong sobra sobra ang utang ng loob namin sa'yo. I am so thankful. Alam mo 'yan. It is hard for me too dahil kulang pa nga ang mga na gawa ko para suklian ang lahat ng kabutihan mo. P.. Pero.." She said sincerely to her but, with a pause noing huli.

"I just want what's best for Tanya, iyon lang." Ngayon ay nasa harap niya ang isang babae na kagaya niya na gagawin ang lahat para sa anak even without thinking straight. What a unreasonable fella.

"J.. Just like that? You'll quit? Just like that.. Paano mo naman siya susuportahan without any work? I can't believe it. Ang daming naghahanap ng trabaho and they will easily jump to your position right now." Hindi niya mapigilan na sabi dito. And she was so, sarcastic.

"But, here you are resigning. Unbelievable. Why can't anyone I know be reasonable, sometimes? Isusuko mo ang career mo just, to be a perfect mom. Seriously?" Hindi pa din niya mapigilan na sabi dito. And she was a bit confused when she smiles at her.

"Because I know that this will make me contented and happy forever." Sabi pa nito sa kanya and she just accepts her defeat. Hindi man niya gusto maniwala ay wala siyang na gawa kung hindi tanggapin iyon kahit na unreasonable.

"Fine, do what you want. Kung diyan ka nga kamo sasaya. I know that this time will come. Ano pa nga ba magagawa ko? There is no such constant to this world rather than change."

"Hin--

"Save it. Stop, making yourself feel better. I am used yo this. But, I want bago ka umalis ay maka hanap ako ng kapalit mo. May be that is fair enough for the both of us, di' ba?" Pigil niya dito nang tangkain nitong i- comfort pa siya sa gagawin nitong pag alis.

"Of corse. We are moving to the province. Bumili ako ng maliit na bahay doon at nagpatayo ng maliit na bakeshop. If you want to you can visit u--

"If you didn't say that you'll quit, I might able too. But, now you know I can't. I'll just beep you back when I found someone to replace you, 'kay? Just bear with me for a moment." She sadly says at her.

She is keeping herself cool kahit na gusto niyang ma inis dito. After all she did for her ay iiwan lang din pala siya nito like everyone else that she knows. But, she just don't want to hold anyone again. Ang lahat naman ay laging may katapusan may be not now. But, may be soon.

"I want to thank you for everything. Really, ang laki ng uatang ng loob namin sa'yo. At habang buhay namin iyong tatanawin sa'yo. What everyone thinks of you is not true. Mabait ka at may puso. Hindi ko nga alam kung bakit iniisip nila na masama ka? You were such a good hearted person and we are so, lucky to be part of your life." Labis na labis pa na pagpapasalamat nito sa kanya. Ngunit hindi pa rin maalis ang disappointment na kanyang nararamdaman.

"If you are really thankful, you should've not resign." Iyon lamang ang sinabi niya at nag paalam na kay Tanya.

"This is is one of the may reason na pinagsisihan ko sa pag uwi ko." She calmly goes to the waiting area in the bus stop. Unti unting bumuhos ang malakas na pinong ulan. Mabuti na lamang at hindi humahangin kaya hindi siya na babasa.

"It is raining again." She sarcastically says to herself. Why does it rains every tine she was so sad? Is the sky mocking her?

"Sa north cemetery ako." She said with the taxi driver.

"Payong mo ba 'to? Can I buy this? Pati itong sampaguita." Tanong niya dito at bago pa ito maka sagot ay binigay na niya ang bayad kasama ang bayad niya sa pamasahe. She was a bit thankful dahil ambon lamang at hindi malakas ang ulan sa simenteryo. Pumasok siya sa isang tila malaking bahay na may pangalan na Legaspi family. And she close the gate afterwards.

"I missed you all...so much...everyday." Hindi niya mapigilan ang mapa luha ng bahagya while looking sa puntod ng kanyang mga magulang maging sa pubtod ng kanyang lolo at siyempre sa kanyang anak.

"Riley, Miss na miss kita sobra... By the way, I'm your mom. Sorry, kung ngayon lang ako ulit naka dalaw. You know h..how hard it was always for me to go back here. In may be a week or two aalis din ako anak.."

"I love you so much.. Huwag na huwag mo sanang kalimutan 'yan kahit na nasa heaven ka na. I'm sorry at hindi pa ako maka sunod diyan. May be Lord is asking me to do something pa kaya ako nandito. Mahal na mahal kita. Miss na miss pa."

"Sorry, Mom is crying again like a crazy woman. Miss na miss ko na kayo nila Lolo kayong lahat. You know it was really so hard to be alone lalo na kapag ganito nararamdaman mo. There's no one to comfort me..even though it was this painful.."

"I really have to end this soon..." She determinedly said to herself.

-----

"Hija, bakit ganyan ang ayos mo?" Nagtatakang salubong ng Nana niya sa kanya.

"I'm fine. Kumain na din ako." Tipid niyang sagot at umakyat na.

"Hija, ayokong makita na ganyang ang hitsura mo. Kaya't kung gusto mo ng bumalik sa Amerika hindi na kita pipigilan. Nasasaktan akong makita kang ganyang." Hindi naman na siya kumibo pa.

(Ako din hirap na hirap na. Akala ko after all these damn 10 years.. Makakalimutan ko ang lahat ng sakit. Why does it feel that it was yesterday? Should I go back?) That's what she was thinking before she falls a sleep.

"Yep, I was doing fine Theo. You don't have to worry about me.. Of corse, I missed you too! Ano ka ba?" Pagsisinungaling niya dito kinabukasan ng ito ay tumawag.

"Sorry for not calling you. It was really a hit in the office kaya dinumog talaga ako. And you remmember Rihanna? Aha, that Rihanna nga. She was really good and you know what? Her daughter was 9 nine years old already. And she is very smart din.."

(It's good that you are having so much fun. I'm glad to hear that. But, I'm still worried. At.. Hay talagang namimiss na kita. Umuwi kaya ako?)

"Theo! Babe naman. Ikatlong araw ko pa lang dito. You don't have to worry about me. At isa pa if you are here hindi ako makakapag concentrate at alam mo 'yan."

(I know Babe. Pero namimiss na talaga kita. And feeling worried is just an excuse..)

"Ha- ha- ha. Don't be like that.. Kung hindi baka bumalik na talaga agad ako. And by the way, I don't want to spoil this fun conversation but, I receive an invitation regarding the Alumni. They are asking us to come in a reunion. What do you think? A- attend ba ako?" She told him honestly at nawalan naman ito ng kibo sa kabilang linya.

(Babe, kaya mo na bang makita muli siya?) Theo asked at her .

"Of corse! I already moved on na. Kaya nga minahal na kita hindi ba?" Mabilis niyang sagot para hindi na ito mag alala pa.

(Woah, that's the first time you told me you love me. I think you can go. Na sa'yo ang desisyon. Hindi naman kita pipigilan. Dahil nandito lang naman ako palagi para sa'yo at alam mo 'yan.) He said sincerely to her. This guy is really kind.

(I will always love you no matter what.) Dagdag pa nito.

"Thank you. Don't worry I'll be alright. I missed you a lot too. At isa pa pag iisipan ko kung pupunta ako dahil parang tinatamad ako dahil wala ka..." Tila parang wala lang sa kanya ang reunion.

(My gf is being clingy.. Hmmmm...) Lambing nito sa kanya.

"Opo, sorry na. Ikaw kasi masyado mo akong ini- spoiled." Balik niyang biro dito.

(Hay.. Babe, I think I have to go dahil kapag hindi ko pa ito binaba. I might take the earliest flight here in LA to Manila, sige ka.) Tila nahihirapang sabi nito sa kanya.

"Alright, alright! Take care, Babe! I'll call you later. Sleep for a moment muna. Loveyou." Natatawa niyang sabi ay nag paalam na.

------

"Ryuuki, what the hell? Bakit ka nag iisa dito?" Lee asked at him. He was sitting on

Ten- J's front line alone.

"It is just 8pm pero heto at nagpapaka lasing ka na. What's wrong man?" Lee asked again ngunit hindi niya ito pinansin.

"Ten, this is an emergency. Ryuuki is drinking alone here in you bar. He looks very messed up. Call the gang. I'll wait for everyone here." Lee worriedly called Ten.

"H.. Hey, what's wrong? Baka maka tulong ako." He asked at him again.

"How to mend a broken heart?" He crazily asked him. Ngunit na tahimik lamang ito.

"I'm sorry but, I haven't fall in love. I'm not the right guy to ask." Hingi nito ng tawad.

"Don't dream on it." He sarcastically says to him.

"What the heck?" Pukaw ng mga pamilyar na lalaki na hinahabol pa ang hininga dahil mabilis na tumakbo ang mga ito para maka punta sa kanya. And he rolled her eyes.

"I want to be alone." Hirit niya sa mga ito.

"We will not let you to be alone." Hirit ni Ten sa kanya.

"Scotch on the rocks for everyone. And we are close for today." That's Ten again. At inokupa nila ang lahat ng upuan sa tabi ng bartender. Para silang mga naka pila.

"Gin tonic dito." That's George.

"I'll have salty dog." Cameron on the right.

"Tequilla dito." That's Shine.

"Damn, you look like hell. The expression you have was the same expression you had when we met 8 years ago. Are you kidding me?" That's Cameron at alam niya ang tinutukoy nito.

"Don't start Cam. And Damon shut up please." Sita niya sa mga ito at na pa iling lang naman ang mga ito sa kanya.

"Is it the same person, again?" Cam can't help but asked.

"Or should you say the only person?" He sarcastically replied at him. Na pa buga naman ito ng hangin.

"Is it the woman in your wallet?" That was Shine.

"Huh?! That wild woman! I can't believe this. Akala ko iba lang ang taste niyo sa babae pero Dude, na babaliw ka na nga talaga." That's Lee na halos na samid pa.

"I met her once... Trying to introduce myself for future investment din sana. But, believe me nilagpasan lang niya ako at hindi niya ako pinansin. I was I think in Germany at that time.." Kuwento pa ni Lee na halatang medyo inis pa din sa pangyayari.

"I can still remember the expression she gave me.. It was chilly.." Komento pa nito.

"Bakit hindi mo sinabi?!" Singhal niya dito.

"How am I suppose to know na hinahanap mo pala siya. Eh hindi ka nga nagku- kuwento. I think that was 2 years ago.." Sagot naman nito sa kanya.

"How was she?" He can't help but asked.

"I don't know.. But, one thing I'm sure of.. She's snob and she is really cold." Lee answered at him frankly.

"Na babaliw ka na. Move on, for Pete's sake naman! Mag iisang dekada na ang nakakaraan." Si Cameron iyon.

"Ang daling sabihin... Nag mahal ka na ba?" Singhal niya dito. Hindi naman ito naka sagit agad.

"Shut up!"

"Cameron, you should not talk about things like that no'. You don't actually know how to be in love pa nga." That was Nichollo on the other side.

"Alam ko no'! Ano akala niyo sa akin!" Reklamo nito sa kanila.

"Weh.. Kupal." Lee teased at him.

"If you want.. Maaari kitang operahan para mawalan ka ng alaala." That's Dr. Nichollo sounding so damn, serious.

"That's so fucking creepy! Nakaka ilan ka na ba?" Vash hissed at him.

"I actually want to do that to myself too. But, I bet that won't be effective." And Dr. is sounding so sentimental all of a sudden.

"Did you fall in love na ba?" That's the innocent de amor Lee.

"The topic is not me. And don't make me the topic you womanizer. Kapag talaga ikaw na in love. I'm gonna dye your hair blue. Call?" Pagli lihis nito sa sarili.

"Love does not exist ang kulit niyo. Fine call!" Kontra pa ng Hudyo.

"How about giving him amnesia, Alexander?" Now, George was sounding serious.

"That might be effective." Naka tangong sagot nito.

"C'mon, let's not asked him what to do. Let's just join him. Dahil naglu luksa pa din ang puso niya at isa pa, if it was one hell true love believe me.. There's no such cure.. You just have to wait for the time to heal it.." That was coming from Ten. If it was the old Ten malamang hindi sila maniniwala dito.

"Para namang nag mahal ka n--

"Oo naman! Kaya nga handa na ako ikasal sa kumare niyo di' ba? " Pagya yabang nito. And George rolled his eyes.

"Mr black eye, mag hintay ka lang dahil I bet all my wealth. Soon, you'll fall in love to that Tonya. Kumapit ka lang." Biro ni Ten dito na ikina tawa nila.

"I.. I am not certain but, I might meet her this coming reunion of our alumni. I haven't seen her even once in almost a decade. The last time I saw her was when she walked out on our house one week after my brother died."

"She saw something na misunderstanding lamang. Leandra was kissing m...me." He honestly opened up with everyone.

"What?! And that was a misunderstanding?" Cameron shouted at him.

"You know Leandra will do everything, right?" He said angrily in the lowest tone he can.

"Hindi mo ba siya hinabol?" Cameron curiously asked at him.

"I tried everything to stop her pero hindi ko siya inabutan.. And when I come to their house she was not there... And they do not want to tell me where she is. Maging sa graduation umaasa ako na makita ko siya. Ngunit na bigo ako.." Buong sama ng loob niyang kuwento sa mga ito.

"Is she really hates me that much? Or is it me who haven't moved on?" Pagak niyang tanong sa mga ito.

"Pare... Just let it all out... Everything had a reason. Alam mo 'yan.." Ten patted his shoulder.

"But, it hurts me so much... Sobrang sakit.." Na sabunutan na niya ang sarili sa frustration.

"I would rather hurt myself! Than to ever make you cry! There's no other way than to say goodbye!" He can't help but, sing those sad lyrics. Damn, this feeling. Sana ay makalimutan niya lahat iyon kahit ngayong gabi lang.

"Unbelievable..." That was Xerces na pa iling ito.

"Just drink to your heart's content, Bro! Lilipas din 'yan." Shine gave him another glass of brandy.

"Sabi ng lalaki na hindi pa na in love." Singit na naman ni Lee.

"I'm standing here in front of everyone because someone broke my heart too." He smiles bitterly.

"Is it Rana?" And that was Reidd.

"Bullseye, Dre." Natatawang sabi ni Vash ng hindi ito maka kibo.

"Why does all of you, falls in love with a weirdo?" Na iinis na tanong ni Ledsa kanila

"Dahil kapag ang pana ni Kupido ang tumira, wala kang magagawa at hindi ka na makaka iwas pa. Cching!" That's Nichollo.

"He is insane!" George hissed at him.

"Yo! Mukhang nagkaka sayahan kayo?" That was the fantastic woman, Heather.

"What are you doing here?" Gulat na tanong ng boyfriend nito na hindi na pigilan ang mapa ngiti.

"Sinusundo ko siya, masama ba?" Naka ngiti naman tanong nito habang tinatanggal ang black leather jacket na suot nito. Inilugay din nito ang mahabang kulot nitong buhok na tila na basa sa ulan. Sumenyas naman si Ten sa mga bartender nitk ba bigyan ito ng towel.

"Siyempre hindi. Have a seat here with me." And before she sit with his future boyfriend nakipag hi five pa ito sa lahat.

"How many times do I have to tell you to not use your bike? You know it's raining.. You really love trouble, don't you?" Sermon nito dito. And she gave him a fast kiss in his cheeks at tumahimik na ito.

"Huwag ka ng magalit.. Sweet! Why the hell you look like you are going to die?" Nang mapa baling ito sa kanya.

"Malapit na.." Seryoso niyang sagot.

"Johnson, what's wrong with this Nerd?" Tanong nito dito at inakbayan ito.

"Broken hearted.." Sagot naman ni Ten.

"Awww. Masakit 'yan. Let's drink to that. I don't want to be rude.. Is she married?" Curious na tanong nito. Bigla naman siyang na tahimik dito at na pa ngiti na lamang habang na pa iling.

"What's that supposed to mean?" And it was Cameron. Bakit nga ba nakalimutan niyang kasal sila? Kahit magka boyfriend pa ito ay hindi maaari dahil kasal sila. At dahil kasal sila may karapatan siya dito.

"And he is smiling.. Unbelievable.." Lee rolled his eyes.

"Ten your future the one is really a genius. It is good that you two met first before us dahil baka kami ang nagka tuluyan.. I'm liking he--

"One more word, I'm gonna walk out." Na pipikon na cut ni Ten sa kanya.

"Selos naman to'. Ang arte lang. Huwag kang mag alala, alam mo naman na kahit gaano pa ka guwapo itong mga kaibigan mo. Mas guwapo ka pa din sa paningin ko. Walang tatalo." He heard Heather says while winking. Hinalikan panito sa pisngi muli si Ten and in just like that ngumiti na ang kaibigan niya.

"Go get a roooooom.. Shooooo." Taboy ni Reidd sa mga ito.

"Thank you guys, you are really helpful.." He said without emotion.

"I think he was mocking us.." Sabi ni Reidd sa kanila.

"I think so too..." And Cameron agree to him.

------

Ang bigat ng pakiramdam niya. Ayaw pa sana niyang bumangon ngunit ang ingay ng kanyang cellphone. Sa sobrang ka lasingan niya ay hindi niya alam kung paano siya naka uwi. The last thing he remember from last night was Heather came that's all.

"What?" Na iirita niyang tanong matapos sagutin ang cellphone.

(Did you see the news paper?) That was Lee.

"I just woke up. Halata naman di' ba?" Na iirita niyang sagot dito.

(I think you don't have to find who you are looking. Kung hindi ako nagkakamali, she is Rence Isabelle Legaspi tama?) Matapos niyang marinig ang mga pangalan na iyon ay mabilis siyang bumaba sa hagdan upang kunin ang diyaryo sa living room. Biglang nawala ang pagka lasing niya sa na basa.

"The Young successful Chairwoman and CEO of Prime Malls International,

is back for good?

Plans of establishing new Malls in Hong Kong and LA,

is true?"

That was the headline in the business bulletin front page. Kailan pa kaya ito bumalik? Should he see her in the office? Or is she here para um- attend ng reunion? But, when he turn to the next page. Gusto niyang mapa mura.

"Prime Malls and Top Malls, future tie up? The biggest tie up in the business industry!" That's the caption of the picture taken of Isabelle and the guy while they were walking in the street with holding hands. And he knows this guy. This is Theo.

"How ironic. It is as if we are still in the past.." That's the only thing he says in the most sarcastic way.

"I think they both forget who I am."

-----

"Rihanna, did you see the newspapers? Damn it! I'll sue that newspaper!" Na iinis niyang bulyaw dito. Nagpu puyos talaga siya sa galit.

"Calm do--

"Calm down?! What the hell?! How can I calm down? This fucking newspaper announced to the whole world that Theo and I are dating! Hindi pa nga ako nagpapa kilala ng pormal sa mga magulang nito!" Galit na galit niyang sabi. Ano na lamang ang iisipin ng mga share holders niya? That she is trying to sell their company as well?

"I will call the newspaper so they can pull it out even in the internet.." Rihanna told her to make her calm.

"Find the writer or set me up with that stupid newspaper.. ASAP." She said while gritting her teeth. What the hell is wrong in the Philippines? Everyday it is as if there's always a bomb for her. It was so stressful.

"I think I might not attend the reunion, if this is gonna continue." She honestly told Rihanna.

"It's okay even though you don't want to attend. At isa pa hindi naman lahat ng tao nagba basa ng diyaryo. Honestly, I just knew it because of you.. So, don't take it too serious.." Awat sa kanya ng secretary niya.

"But, not everyone does not read the newspaper too. Alam mo 'yan. And you should also take care of hiring your new replacement. Because, I need someone that I can trust.." Pagba balik niya sa topic ng resignation nito.

"I know that. I am already starting na.. I hope hindi na masama ang loob mo." May himig na pa aalala na tanong nito.

"You know me better kaya alam mo ang sagot diyan.." She simply said.

"Yes, Babe? I think it is 8:30pm diyan. Did you had dinner?" And Theo was on the other line.

(Ha- ha- ha! Did you see the news?) Malakas na tawa nito sa kabilang linya.

"Seriously?! Hindi nakaka tawa ang balita! I'm gonna put that newspaper in hell. Literally.." She irritatedly hissed at him.

(Babe, I like it. Don't be too harsh sa kanila. At isa pa, the photo is actually nice.) He is really unbeLievable.

"Babe, shut up. Bago ako ma pikon. The share holders gonna make a fuss again." Sita niya dito.

(Then, should we get married? Para maniwala silang seryoso tayo at hindi mo sila binebenta? What do you think?) Suggestion nito sa kanya. At hindi na siya nakapag salita pa.

(Na freeze ka na naman. Every time you hear the word marriage, hindi ka na kumikibo.) komento nito sa kanya.

"You know why.." Tipid niyang sagot.

(I think it would be great na manatili ka muna diyan sandali. So, that you can think of my proposal. And I think this is also the time for you to do what you needed..) He seriously said to her.

(I love you, Babe! Chow for now. Hinahanap na nila ako. I miss you to the moon and back!) Paalam nito sa kanya.

"I love you too..." Pa habol naman niya dito,

"Si Theo ba 'yon?" Tanong nito mula sa likuran.

"Fuck! I think I need to drink my medicine bago pa ako mawala sa katinuan.." Na nginginig niyang hanap ng peels niya sa kanyang bag.

"What's that?" Tanong na naman nito.

"Medicine.." She simply anawered.

"Kailan ka pa nag simulang uminom niya'n?" Bakit ba ang dami nutong tanong?

"I'm taking this for more than five years. Am.. Just keep it quiet from Theo ang alam niya kasi I stop drinking this for the past 2 years..." Bilin niya dito.

"I'm sorry.. Hindi na siguro ako magre resign muna. Ayoko maka dagdag sa isipin mo.." Tila naaawang sabi nito sa kanya.

"If you are saying that you are not resigning because, you are pitying me. You can leave now. Alam mong ayoko ng awa. Isa pa, mahirap man tanggapin na aalis ka na. But, I know Tanya really needs you. Naging ina din naman ako kahit sanadali.." She said with a bitterness.

"You don't have to worry. I'll be fine after I drink this..." Dagdag pa niya dito.

"And I cannot control everything. Theo was right. Hindi maaaring tumakbo na lamang ako habang buhay... Because if I always run.. I will not finish anything at all.. At magiging pa ulit ulit lamang ang mga bagay bagay.." Rihanna gave her a hug.

-----

"Do I look over dress?" She asked Rihanna while walking down the stairs. She is wearing a maroon off shoulder fitted dress with a small slit in the right leg. She paired it with back strapped heels and simple long earings. Inilugay din niya ang palagi niyang naka taling buhok. She even let her bangs down.

"Oh my God! You are so stunning!" Excited na puri sa kanya ni Tanya na naka mini black dress. Maganda pa din ito. Bakit kaya hindi pa ito muling nag aasawa?

"Mag palit kaya ako?" Mag U turn pa sana siya ngunit hinila siya nito.

"No. You look classy. Tara na." Naka ngiting sabi nito. The theme of their reunion was one decade darker. Kaya dark colors ang kailangan nilang isuot.

"Na nginginig ka. Are you okay?" Tanong ni Rihanna sa kanya habang sila ay nasa biyahe.

"Oo naman. Wala ito." Mabilis niyang tango at sagot dito.

"Ano ba 'yang nasa envelop?" Tanong nito sa hawaka niya.

"Atomic bomb." Biro niya dito.

"I think you are okay kasi you are making a joke na."

"Because, I am. But, I think I have to take my pills. Medyo na hihirapan akong huminga." She honestly told her and take two pills in one time.

"O.. Okay just take it.. Are you sure you don't want to turn back? He might come, alam mo 'yan. And by looking at you.. You might crumble, Isabelle.." Tanong pa nitong muli sa kanya.

"As long as I drink my medicine, I'll be fine. Isa pa na diyan ka naman. And it would be really great if he'll come. Para hindi na ako mahirapan pang hanapin siya.. Isa pa hindi ko naman siya puwede iwasan habang buhay.." Pagak ang boses niyang sabi dito.

"I need to end everything so that I can start over and to have peace as well."

"I can't say anything. Dahil hindi ko naman alam ang buong pangyayari. But, when I first saw both of you.. Alam ko na mahal niyo isa't isa.. I didn't know why does it need to come to this.." Hindi pa din makapaniwala na sabi nito sa kanya.

(Ako din..)

"Julius, I'll call you kapag kailangan mo na kaming sunduin." That was Rihanna. At bumaba na sila sa kotse.

"Julius nga pala ang pangalan niya.." She said to her. At bahagyang kumunot ang noo nito.

"When was the last time you had a check up with your psychiatrist?" She asked her.

"Almost a year now.. Why?" Balik na tanong niya matapos sumagot.

"N.. Nothing. Did she says anything?" Tila hindi totoo ang sagot nito sa kanya.

"Nope. She said I'm good." Umiling siya dito. Lalo yata siyang kinabahan ng bumaba sila ng sasakyan. She wants to turn back na dahil mukhang hindi pa nga talaga niya kaya. Umuwi na lang kaya siya.

"H.. Hey, namumutla ka? Huwag na kaya tayo tumuloy.." Sabi ni Rihanna sa kanya ng nasa tapat sila ng gym before mag register.

"Hi! Isabelle! Ikaw ba 'yan?!" A woman in gray tube asked her. Naka ngiti ito sa kanya. Kilala ba niya ito?

"Oh my God! Rina, Siya nga! How are you?! Ang tagal nating hindi nag kita!" The woman in short hair naman. Ni yakap siya nito ngunit hindi niya maalala ang mga ito. Are they friends?

"O.. Oo nga. A.. Ayos naman ako.." Tipid niyang sagot. Na pa kunot naman si Rihanna sa expression niya.

"Rihanna, right?" Tanong muli ng ma igsi ang buhok kay Rihanna.

"Yes, it's me Lea. Na saan pala si Jerome?" Naka ngiting bati nito mukhang alam nito na wala siyang naki kilala sa mga ito.

"My hubby is just on his way pa lamang.. C'mon let's go inside.. Let's get the party started na.." Naka ngising yaya ni Lea sa kanila. The gymnasium turns in to a very classic venue. There's so many christmas light in the hallway.

Nag lagay pa ang mga ito ng mahabang red carpet. The table was neatly set up with a light gold theme as well as with a beautiful red roses center piece. It was amazing.. The platform had was filled with beautiful flowers. At sa wall nandoon ang lahat ng larawan nilang lahat ng magkakasama.

She doesn't know but. She was hypnotized to go there and she saw a picture of her with the ladies na sumalubong sa kanya. Everyone was in christmas outfit. At ng mapa dako ang mga mata niya sa tatlong lalaki na katabi niya. May biglang kung ano na kumirot sa puso niya. Sumakit ang ulo niya ng may mga ilang alaala siyang muling bumalik. It was Jerome, Theo and h..him..

Theo's Ate told her couple of times that the reason she has a short term amnesia was due to the heavy trauma she had. At ang sabi nito darating din daw ang araw na unti unti iyong babalik kapag kaya na ng isip niyang tanggapin ang lahat ng iyon. May be that's the reason kaya hindi niya maalala ang mga dating ka klase.

"Are you okay?" Tanong ni Rihanna nang lapitan siya nito.

"I think the memories is now coming back. You don't have to worry, I know everyone already.. It just comes back.." She said while almost crying.

"I should've stop you from coming here.." Pinisil nito ang balikat niya.

"I am here because I wanted too and I have a purpose too." And she let a very deep sigh.

"Isabelle, where's Theo pala? I read the newspaper yesterday. Kayo pala ang nagka tuluyan akala ko pa naman kayo ni Ryuu--

"He is in LA. He's father is a bit old na kaya siya na ang nag aasikaso ng negosyo nila. He called yesterday nga. Humihingi ng sorry dahil hindi siya makaka punta.." She explained while smiling. Why does it hurts even just to hear his name?

"Theo really won your heart, Belle.. Si Ryuuki kaya na saan? Mukhang hindi din yata pupunta ang mokong na 'yon.." And she smile bitterly to them to hide her emotions. Rihanna is just looking at her.

"Jerome, hindi ka pa din nagba bago.. You always bad mouthed me..." And they all heard a very familiar voice that she can't forget. Tila gusto niyang kumaripas ng takbo upang maka alis or mag tago sa ilalim ng lamesa. Hindi niya alam ang gagawin.

"Oh my God! Pare! Akala ko iinjanin mo na naman kami! You look good!" Yakap ni Jerome dito at tumawa lang naman ito. That laugh, iyon ang tawa na talagang ikina hulog ng kanyang puso dito. Mukhang lalo itong gumuwapo sa naka lipas na mga taon. At isa pa medyo lumaki ang katawan nito. He looks hot.

(Na babaliw ka na. Nagiging tanga ka na naman.) Sabi niya sa sarili.

"Why did I forget na you will always be handsome, Ryuuki?" Rina told him with a smile.

"You never changed Rina. Honest ka pa din.." And he gave Rina a hug. Yumakap din ito sa iba at nang yayakap sana ito sa kanya bigla itong na pa tigil.

"Ooops.. Theo might get angry pala. Where is he?" Tila sarcastic na biro nito at na tawa naman ng pagak ang mga kasama niya. Tinignan lang naman niya ito ng masama. Ngumiti lang naman ito sa kanya.

(That fucking smile!) Gusto na niyang umuwi.

"He is still in LA. He had some business to attend to kaya hindi siya makaka punta." Sinalo siya ni Rihanna.

"That's good then. Because it will be really awkward to talk to Rence while he was here. And why are you the one answering me, are you her secretary?" Malamig na tono nito.

"Yes, technically.." Rihanna answered him.

"Don't mind him, Rihanna. You know he is always like that.." Pag iiba niya ng usapan.

"Sorry, sweetheart. I already changed." Tila malambing na sabi nito. Damn, those words.

"Akala ko ba nag bago ka na? Excuse me.. Woodman, I am not your sweetheart anymore.." Matalim niyang balik dito.

"How ironic. I'm back to being a Woodman now.." He said in coldness.

"H... Have a sit.." Medyo awkward na alok ni Jerome ng upuan dito. Bigla kasing nag iba ang ihip ng hangin ng dumating ito. Parang tila may tensyon. And he was sitting in front of her. Taimtim na naka titig ito sa kanya. Nag lihis naman siya ng tingin dito. Pakiramdam niya ay hihiwalay na ang puso niya sa kanyang katawan dahil sa bilis ng tibok nito.

"I'll just get something to eat.." Sabi ni Jerome at sumama naman si Lea dito.

"Ako din sama.." Sabi ni Rina habang naka tingin sa kanila bago tuluyang umalis. Sinenyasan niya si Rihanna na umalis muna sandali. She wants to speak with Woodman alone.

(Dear Lord, puwede niyo po bang burahin ang ngiti niya sa mukha? Napaka guwapo naman ng hudyong kaharap niya.) Sa isip isip niya.

(Just don't ask how I've been..) Lihim niyang panalangin.

"I missed you. Don't you missed me?" Basag nito sa katahimikan na namamagitan sa kanilang dalawa. How can he act that as if he did not do anything bad to her? Napaka kapal talaga ng mukha nito.

Ang tagal niyang binuo ang sarili para lamang maka harap dito ng maayos. Ngunit tila wala lang nangyari dito. Napaka sama talaga nito. How did she fall in love with this man? Kinamumuhian niya talaga ito.

"Hindi mo man lang ba ako, kakamustahin?" Tila sarcastic na tanong nito sa kanya.

"How have you been?" Simpleng tanong niya na halatang pilit na pilit.

"'Yan lang ba masasabi mo after 10 years?" He asked sarcastically again.

"You should not use that kind of tone to me because as far as I remember. You don't have any right at all.." She hissed at him.

"I believe you know I have a rights to you.." May laman na balik nito.

"Speaking of that. I will not beat around the bush. My intention of coming here is because I want you to sign this divorce papers.." And she wants to say what she wanted kaya siya nandoon ngayon.

"Ngayon lang tayo nag kita kaya hindi kita papatulan.." Matalim at tila galit na sabi nito.

"But you have to. It's been 10 year--

"Para ano? Para ma punta ka sa iba? Yeah, it has been already 10 years kaya I don't give a damn.." He cuts her.

"Why are you trying so hard to get? I just want us to be co--

"Completely strangers? You thought me a lot of things in the past 10 years.. I'm not as easy as you can see.. Nice try, Rence.." He cuts her again.

"You know what? May isang hindi nag bago sa'yo. Mas naging nakaka inis ka after this damn one decade..." What the hell is his problem?

"Thank you naman at bumalik ka na sa dating sarili mo.." Naka ngising komento nito.

"I will not be the woman you all want me to be.. I'm done doing that. And trust me Rey, I'm not the same woman you met 10 years ago.. Dahil hindi lang ikaw ang mayroong napaka daming na tutunan sa naka lipas na mga taon.." She said while stopping herself to cry.

"You don't know what hell I've been through just be here.. At kung ayaw mo itong pirmahan sa ngayon ayos lang. But, sooner or later alam ko na alam mo na ito ang magiging ikabubuti nating lahat.." Matigas niyang sabi dito.

"Why do you hate me so much? Hinabol kita noon para ipaliwanag sa'yo ang nakita m-"

"You are 10 years late for that.. I don't wanna hear it.." Matigas niyang muling sabi at tinitigan ito ng diretso.

(Huwag ka ng magpaka tanga pa. Binalikan mo siya noon dahil sa kagagahan mo at ano naging resulta? Riley died. So, alam mong dapat mo ng itigil ang usapan na ito. Huwag ka ng makinig pa!) Laban niya sa sarili.

"I still want to explain myself now pero heto ang tigas pa din ng ulo mo. Ayaw mo akong pakinggan.." Tila sumusuko na ang tono nito.

"This is my last words regarding that fucking divorce paper. I will never sign it over my dead body. And you know me, kapag ayoko. A- yo- ko." Ito naman ang ayaw magpatalo.

"I don't care in your opinion. If I need to break every single part of your bones in your body. Gagawin ko, makuha ko lang ang gusto ko.." Segunda niya agad dito.

"Yeah, I missed you too.." Tila nang aasar pa na sabi nito.

"Ehem! Mukhang bati na kayo ah. Nag uusap na kayo ulit eh..." That's Jerome.

"Oo naman Pare, alam niyo naman 'yang kumare niyo na 'yan. Suplada kunwari dahil kulang sa lambing.." Sabi ni Rey na nakakaloko kung ngumiti.

"Kumare my ass..." Matalim niyang sita dito.

"See? Hindi ba ang sweet niya?" Rey asked sarcastically.

"Pare, hinay hinay baka ma in love ka ulit sa kanya.. Mapaglitan pa kami ni Theo dahil kinokonsinte ka namin.. Move on move on pag may time.." Sabi ni Jerome at tinapik pa ito.

"Pare naman, you know that moving on is only for the relationship that has ended. Wala akong maalala na break up namin.." Pang aasar pa nito sa kanya.

"Are you nuts?!" Bulyaw niya dito na ikina iling ng iba.

"Easy tiger, I'm just being honest here.. You left me 10 years ago with no closure. Am I right?" Mukhang sinasagad talaga siya nito.

"Okay.. Tama na 'yan.. Let's just have a beer. Bago pa tayo mapa barangay. And Ryuuki, don't be too hard on her. 10 years tayong hindi nagkita baka mamaya niyan taguan na naman niya tayo.." Si Rina ang may dala niyon.

"Can we just move on and stop saying the things that had happen 10 years ago.. She might have reasons as well.. And can we enjoy the night?" Rihanna hissed at evryone mukhang kanina pa ito na aasar.

"Thank you, Rihanna. Shall we get started?" Tanong niya habang kinuha ang isang bote ng beer.

"You're drinking?" Gulat na tanong nito.

"Yeah, I've changed too.." Pagbabalik naman niya ng sinabi nito.

"So, Isabelle.. How was your 10 years?" And that was Lea.

(Traumatic..) Sa loob loob niya.

"Very memorable.." Tipid niyang sagot.

"Kayo kamusta?" Tipid din na tanong niya.

"We got married 3 years ago. And she's pregnant with our first child. We send you invitations pati si Theo at Ryuuki pero wala man lang pumunta sa inyo ni isa. You are all missing in action.." Si Jerome iyon na tila nagtatampo.

(I was still having therapy at that time..)

"Name what you want. I'll give you a late gift as an apology sa hindi namin pag attend ni Theo.." Tanong niya sa mga ito para matapos ang usapan.

"Why do you have to mention the person who is not here? I am offended.." Singit na naman ni Rey.

"We want a two door refrigerator.." Naka ngiting sabi ni Lea.

"Call.. Just text me your address here is my calling card. I'll deliver it for free.." Naka ngiti niyang sagot.

"Ayos! The best ka talaga. Kukunin na lang kitang Ninang ng anak ko.." Naka ngising sabi ni Lea sa kanya.

"Sure--- Excuse me.." Sabi niya ng mag ring ang kanyang phone. That was Theo calling from the LA.

"Hello, Babe. Ang aga pa diyan. Gising ka na?" Bungad niya kay Theo habang nagtataka. Bakit ang aga naman nitong gumising?

(To tell you honestly babe, nag aalala ako sa'yo kaya hindi pa din ako nakaka tulog. Hindi ako dinadalaw ng antok..) And there he was.. Being worried at her samantalang ito ang wala pang tulog sa kanilang dalawa.

"What?! It's almost 7am diyan.." Gulat na tanong niya dito.

(Sorry, clingy talaga itong boyfriend mo kaya huwag ka ng magalit... How was the reunion? Did you see h..him?) He must be really worried siguro kaya hindi na ito naka tiis at tumawag na.

"Babe naman, I told you to not be worried about me.. The reunion was going fine.. Y.. Yeah, he was here.." Sagot niya habang tinatago ang stress ng kanyang boses.

(S.. So, how was it?) Tila alanganin pa nitong tanong sa kanya.

"H... He looks good.. That's all I know.. And how the heck am I supposed to answer that?" Tipid niyang sagot dito.

(Okay.. Relax, I'm just asking..)

"Don't worry, I'm not angry at you.. I'm happy that you called. I have a reason na para maka takas dito.. And I already gave him the divorce paper.." She shared at him. Matagal itong hindi nag salita.

(And did he signed it?) Tanong nito.

"N.. Not yet.. But, he will sign it eventually.." Diterminado niyang sabi.

(I think he still likes you..) Halos tila hindi na lumabas sa mga bibig nito.

"We both know that's a lie.." Kontra niya dito.

(Alright, hindi na kita kukulitin. At least, we are making a progress.. I missed you. I just hope I'm there so I can support you..) pang hihinayang nito.

"You are a great support, Babe. I missed you too. But, for now can you just please have some sleep.. Kung hindi magagalit na talaga ako.." Paninita niya dito.

(Heto na nga po, matutulog na. I love you too.) Natatawang sabi nito at ibinaba na ang linya.

(I'm sorry for lying Theo. But, I'm really not okay.. Malapit na akong mag collapsed.) Naninikip ang dibdib niyang sabi sa sarili.

"How sweet.. Hindi ko alam na may soft side ka pala.." Na gulat naman siya ng biglang lumabas na lamang si Rey sa gilid ng pader.

"Are you eavesdropping?" She hissed at him.

"I did not do it purposely. Na pa daan lang din ako.." Naka taas pa ang kamay na sagot nito.

"Oh, don't give me that.." She said in disbelief.

"Wait.. If you are still thinking na pipirmahan ko ang divorce paper. Nagkakamali ka.. If I need to declare a war against you.. Gagawin ko. Dahil hinding hindi ako papayag na mapunta ka sa iba.." Inunahan na siya nito.

"You are only mine, Rence.." Deklara nito at tinaasan niya ito ng kilay ng pigilan siya nitong umalis.

"Bitiwan mo ako! Hanggang kailan mo sisirain ang buhay ko?! Bakit ba hindi mo pa ako tigilan?" And she was pissed off.

"Hindi lang ang buhay mo ang na sira for this past one decade.. At hindi ako papayag na masira iyon muli.." Matigas din nitong sabi.

"At kung hindi mo man pakinggan ang paliwanag ko tungkol sa nakita mo noon. Then.. I swear, I'll do whatever I can just for you to hear me and believe me.. I will make you mine, again.." Pag uulit pa nito.

"This is my last verbal warning. Stop processing our divorce paper.. Dahil hindi ako susuko hangga't hindi ka bumabalik sa akin, Rence. And resist me if you can.." And he already declare a war against her.

"You are still so damn, annoying! Go to hell!" Na iinis niyang sabi at binawi ang kamay niya mula dito.

*****

A chapter full of bitterness!

Rey already declared a war!

What moves will he do para mapa ibig si Rence?

Next Chapter let's meet the gang!

And Ryuuki's little secret!

Matuloy na kayang bumalik si Isabelle sa LA?

Away pusa pa more! Para sa dalawa!