Ruthless Seduction

A willing victim to your charms. I even love your sadistic side. Big, bad and completely unattached. You ravaged my innocence, turning virtue into vice. I welcome this corruption, silently praying for more. You’ve entered my spirit and committed the most perfect of seductions.

Prologue

“Hi, Axel.”  Said a beautiful, seductive voice. It sent a chill down my spine– in a good way. I thought she sounded familiar but I just couldn’t put my finger on who it was. I turned my stool to face her.

A girl wearing a silver mask that covered half of her face stood in front of me. Her red, luscious lips curled upward in a demure smile. That smile almost made me melt on the spot and I haven’t even seen her full face. I couldn’t help but check her out, she was wearing a short, fitted black dress with a plunging v-neck that revealed her generous cleavage. Holy mother of all fucks, what I’d do with those pair of jugs. It made my mouth dry and my loins stir to life at just the thought of that. What the hell is happening with me? I’m a very sexually experienced man, not a teenage boy with raging hormones.

“Hey, babe.”   I said in a cool voice before taking a sip of my drink, trying to restore some moisture to my throat.  “Do I know you?”

“Maybe. Maybe not. It would ruin the fun of masquerade if I tell you, wouldn’t it?”  She said with a wicked grin playing on her lips. 

Nagkibit-balikat ako.  “Maybe. Maybe not.” 

She made a delicious chuckle that sent heat straight through my body even better and faster than this shot of whiskey I was drinking. 

“How did you know my name?”  I asked.

“Sino ba ang hindi makakakilala sa isang Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne?”  She answered. I hate it when someone calls me by my full name but it sounded so lovely when she said it. Hell, I would even let her scream my full name as I bring her to the big O. I shook my head trying to brush the thought away because it only made my pants feel tighter.

“Do you want to dance with me.”  Tanong niya sa akin.

Ibinaba ko ang baso ng alak sa countertop at tumayo ako mula sa kinauupuan ko.  “It would be a pleasure.”  Inilahad ko ang kamay ko sa kanya at agad niyang ibinigay sa akin iyon. I kissed the back of her hand without taking my eyes off hers. She flashed another one of those smiles that could melt a fucking ice berg.

I led her to the dance floor. Nilagay ko ang kamay niya sa ibabaw ng magkabilang balikat ko at ipinulupot ko ang sa akin sa baywang niya. I stared at her face, pilit kong inaalala kung saan ko nakita ang mga labi na katulad ng sa kanya. She really looked familiar but I couldn’t recognize her. It didn’t help that the club was dark, illuminated only by dim blue lights.

“Have we dated before?”  I asked, trying to strike a conversation that might give me a clue on who she was.

“Maybe. Maybe not.”  She answered playfully.

“Hindi mo talaga sasabihin sa akin kung sino ka?”  Natatawang tanong ko.

“Why? don’t you like mysteries?”  She teased, moving her fingertips to the back of my neck. Napasighap ako sa ginawa niya. 

“You have a way of arousing my imagination.”  Sabi ko sa kanya.

“Just your imagination?”  One corner of her lips curved up. 

“Oh, woman, you’re driving me mad, do you know that? You are such a cocktease”  I groaned. My hands slid from her waist to her bottom and I pressed her body towards mine, making her feel my hard on.  “Can you feel what you do to me?”  I growled softly in her ear. 

“Y-y-yes…”  She said softly, her voice shaking. My lips formed a smile. I slightly lifted her dress in the back with one hand and my other hand began to carressed her bottom, feeling the fabric of her underwear. Bumaba pa ang kamay ko, I felt her slit through her panties. I heared her gasped. I knew no one would see us dahil bukod sa crowded ang dance floor, it was dark. She whimpered when I teased her slit by running a finger in between it. She shoved her face on my chest and her hands clutched on my shirt. I pressed a finger to her hole through the fabric. I darted my finger in and out but never really going inside. I could already feel the wetness on her underwear.

“Do you want me to make you come?”  I whispered in her ear.

“A-axel…”  She moaned softly against my chest. I allowed myself a smile of triumph. My fingers went under the fabric and she quickly pushed me away before I could get a chance to touch her bare folds.

“Um… Axel, we shouldn’t– not here…”  She was stuttering.

“Then where? I want to be inside you so bad, babe. I want to feel your tight hole clenching around me…”  I said hoarsely.   “Wouldn’t you like that, baby?”

She paused for awhile before biting her lower lip. I wanted to chew that pretty lip of hers for her.

I took her hand and pulled her out of the crowd. Inagaw niya ang kamay niya mula sa akin at napalingon ako sa kanya.

“What’s wrong?”  Kunot ang noong tanong ko.

“May… may alam akong lugar where we could do it.”  Sabi niya. She took my hand at hinatak ako papunta sa gilid ng stage. Umakyat kami sa maliit na hagdan papunta sa backstage. The backstage was dark, tumatagos ang konting liwanag sa kurtina mula sa labas pero hindi iyon sapat para makita ko ang dinaraanan ko. Naramdaman kong bumitaw siya sa akin. I felt a sense of panic.

“Babe?”  Tawag ko sa kanya. No answer. 

“I’m here…”  Sabi ng boses mula sa likod ko. I knew it was her. Ngumiti ako at lumingon sa kanya. I could see her figure in the dark. I cupped her face and lowered my face to hers. I was about to kiss her ngunit umiwas siya.  “Do you want to play a game?”

“What kind of game?”  I asked.

“I’m going to have to blindfold you, ok?” S he teasingly traced her fingertips on my neck down to my chest bago niya tinakpan ng tela ang mga mata ko. Kinky,  I thought to myself.

“What do I have to do?”  I asked.

“Nothing. Just feel what I’m doing to you.”  She said. Isa-isa niyang tinanggal ang butones ng shirt ko at hinubad iyon. Sinunod niya ang pantalon ko at ang boxers until I was completely naked. I was so hard down there, my body anticipating her touch. I waited for her to do something but she didn’t do anything. After a few minutes of waiting, I grew impatient and it was already starting to hurt being hard like this. What the fuck was taking her so long? Whatever game she was playing, I was starting to not like it. I was getting blue balls here, for fuck’s sake!

“Babe?”  I called her. She didn’t answer. Tinanggal ko ang blindfold sa mga mata ko, sakto sa pagbukas ng kurtina. A blinding bright single spotlight blasted directly on where I was standing. I couldn’t see a damn thing for about 10 seconds, when my eyes adjusted nakita ko ang mga tao na nakatingin sa akin.  I stood there alone on the stage, in front of god knows how many people, in my birthday suit… with a huge fucking hard on.

Chapter One

Mahina akong napamura ng buksan ko ang finorward na link ni Wayne. It was an article from an online gossip blog with a picture of me, taken from the crowd, naked under the spotlight.  Axel Lavigne wanking in public.  Iyon ang nakalagay na title sa article. That really pissed me off. Why would I fucking wank when I could fuck all the snatch I want? 

The incident happened just two days ago and the pictures were already spreading like wildfire all over the internet. I leaned back on my swivel chair and massaged my temples. She fucking ruined my life. How are people going to take me seriously now? How is my father going to take me seriously now that there was a picture of me naked going around the internet? I wanted to strangle whoever that woman was… or better yet, fuck her to death. Yeah, iyon ang magandang parusa para sa babaeng iyon.

That woman… she’s fucking killing me. I wanted her so bad. I wanted to know how her red, luscious lips would feel around my shaft. How her tight, wet snatch would feel around me… I find myself taking cold showers every night because of her. I hate her but I lust after her at the same time. Damn, just thinking about her got me hard. The moment I get her, I would fuck her like an animal. I would do my best to break her hips. I swear to God, I would fuck her so long, so hard, so deep she’d never be able walk again.

Damn, I needed to get laid… badly. I reached for my phone and scrolled through the contact. I just picked a random name on my booty call list. It doesn’t matter who it was, if the name is on the list, she’s fuckable. Now, these girls knew exactly what they were getting themselves into. I made it clear to them that I don’t do relationships. I’m all for casual sex and they know it. Kasalanan na nila iyon kung mahulog man ang loob nila sa akin pero hindi ko na pinapaabot sa puntong iyon. Kapag nararamdaman kong naaattach na sa akin ang isang babae, hindi ko na siya tinatawagan ulit. She gets deleted from the booty call list.

“Ooh.. ooh… ohh! Axeeel!”  She cried out as I thrust myself into her.  “I’m coming, Axel, I’m coming!”

I pounded to her harder and harder from behind. 

“Yes, oh yeeeeees!!!”  Sinubsob niya ang ulo niya sa unan. I could already feel her throbbing around me. This was the second time I got her off and I still haven’t come. I disappointedly pull out of her and looked down at my tool. Fucking fuck! What the fuck is wrong with you, buddy? Why won’t you let me come?

“It’s still hard, baby.”  She lazily said while giggling. No shit, sherlock.  Nakahiga na siya sa kama at namumungay ang kanyang mga mata.

I just needed to concentrate. Stress lang siguro ako dahil sa picture na kumakalat. Don’t think about it too much, man. Just fuck her.

“Hey–” I stopped mid-sentence. Ano nga bang pangalan niya? Emily? Kelly? Kimberly? I’m sure it was something with ly at the end. Well, fuck it.  “Hey, you.”

 Tumingin siya sa akin.  “Yeah, baby?”

“Come over here.”  I said, taking the condom off. She scooted next to me. Ibinaba ko ang ulo niya sa pagitan ng mga hita ko.  “Open your mouth.”  I commanded.  “And suck me.”

“Anthying for you– mm…”  She took me in her mouth and started bobbing her head up and down me. I closed my eyes, imagining it was the masked lady who was doing this to me, her red lips around my length.I instantantly got turned on by the thought.

“Oh yeah, suck it, baby. Take it all in. Suck it real good.”  I groaned in pleasure. I pushed her head down further til I felt myself filling her throat. She moaned submissively. A wave of intense pleasure shot through me. “Shit… faster, baby, faster.”  I grabbed the back of her hair and moved her head up and down my length, she was sucking on it like she was starving. Finally! Thank God! I was finally coming…

“I’m going to come!”  I groaned as she continued to move her head up and down me. She clearly wanted to swallow it. Binigay ko sa kanya ang gusto niya. I shot my load in her mouth and watched as she gulped it down. She, then, looked up at me and smiled seductively. If only she knew I was thinking of another woman while she was sucking me.

Agad akong tumayo ng kama pagkatapos nun at nagsimulang magbihis. I was sitting at the edge of the bed, putting on my shirt when she hugged me from behind.

“Leaving already?”  Malambing na sabi niya.

“Yeah.”  I answered.

“Don’t you want to cuddle for a bit?”  She said, giving me kisses on the neck. Hell no! I don’t cuddle. I don’t sleep with the women I have sex with. I leave right after it’s over.   

“I need to go.”  Sabi ko.

“But, Axel, let’s just cuddle for a bit. Pleeeaaaseee….”  Sinubukan niya akong hatakin pahiga sa kama. This woman was starting to get clingy. This is the last time I’m fucking her. Mamaya burado na siya sa booty call list.

“I’m sorry, baby, I don’t do that. If you really want someone to cuddle with after sex, you should’ve fucked a teddy bear.”  I said before getting up and leaving.

Nakaupo ako sa CCTV room kasama si Wayne at ang isang niyang staff. Hinahanap namin ang footage sa nangyari nang gabing makilala ko ang babaeng nakamaskara. Damn! Bakit ngayon ko lang ba naisip iyon? I really wanted to know who that woman was.

“Are you going to sue the woman?”  Tanong ni Wayne.  

“Probably.”  I shrugged, my eyes never leaving the monitor. No, not really… I wanted to take justice in my own hand. I would fucking make her my come dump. My eyes searched for the woman in the video. Alam kong mahihirapan ako dahil bukod sa matao ang lugar, madilim pa iyon. Sinundan ng mata ko ang babaeng naka itim na dress. I knew it was her.  “There she is!”

Pinanood namin ang iba’t ibang anggulo ng kuha ng CCTV. Katulad nang nangyari noon, nilapitan niya ako sa bar at tumayo ako para magsayaw kasama siya. My lips formed a smug smile habang pinanonood ko ang video. I watched as she buried her face on my chest, damn! Bumalik na naman ang mainit na tagpong iyon sa isip ko. I could almost feel her again on my hand… Her soft ass, her wet slit, her tight hole.

Hinatak niya ako papunta sa backstage at maya-maya pa ay lumabas siyang mag-isa. And you already know what happened next. Tawa ng tawa si Wayne habang pinanonood ang nangyari pagkatapos nun. I glared at him and he raised both his arms as if surrendering while obviously trying to surpress his laughter.

“Dude, sometimes you gotta use this head, too.”  He said patting my head.  “Hindi puro yung  ulo mo sa baba.”

“Fuck you, man.”

He just laughed at me, that asshole.

We switched to different CCTV cameras, sinusundan ang bawat galaw ng babaeng iyon. Lumabas siya sa club papunta sa parking lot. The lighting was bright in the parking lot and I could her more clearly. Even with her mask on, she looked more beautiful than any other girl I had ever seen. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her. Lumapit siya sa dalawang babae, they high fived each other and started laughing. We couldn’t hear what they were talking about but I was almost sure they were talking about me! That was all a planned setup! I wondered why would anyone do that to me? Mabuti naman akong tao. I didn’t deserve that!

I watched as she took her mask off. Suddenly, I was holding my breath. Ito na! Malalaman ko na kung sino ang babaeng iyon. I almost dropped to my seat when I saw her face. No… no, no, no. Not that brat! Baka nagkamali lang ako ng tingin.

“Is that Valerie?”  Nilapit ni Wayne ang mukha niya sa monitor, taking a closer look.

I shook my head in disbelief… No fucking way. 

Valerie’s POV

Oh look… another picture of Axel. Hindi ko mapigilan ang mapangiti habang nakatingin ako sa laptop screen ko. For the past two days, iyon palagi ang pinag-usapan namin ng mga kaibigan ko and we would always end up laughing. Tawa sila ng tawa tuwing kinukwento ko ang nangyari. Well, minus the part where he felt me down there… only the rated PG version.

I instantly felt the heat between my thighs. Why do I always feel that when I think about him? And God, I couldn’t believe na napaginipan ko siya kagabi. In my dream, we were kissing and he was touching me down there and when I woke up my panties were wet. I felt really embarrassed with myself. I felt like a perv for having that sexual dream about him!

Bakit ba kasi hinayaan ko siyang hawakan ako dun? Ugh! God, the memory made me feel like a slut! He was the first guy to touch me there… I don’t even touch myself there, at least, not in the way he did. I should’ve stopped him pero hindi ko nagawa. I felt weak the moment he pulled me towards him and felt his hardness against my stomach. Tinakpan ko ng mga palad ko ang mukha ko and started shaking my head. No, I don’t want to think about it anymore!

Bakit ginawa ko sa kanya iton? My friend, Trina dared me to do it so I did. And I felt like he deserved it too. I hated that guy since the first time I saw him. He had sex with all three of my friends, si Venus, Amy at Trina. He’s a manwhore basically. He probably think he’s God’s gift to women.

I tried to forget about it and decided to take a shower because I felt like my whole body was burning. Magkikita pa pala kami ng mga friends ko sa party mamaya. I feel like a bird out of the cage tuwing nasa Manila ako. I could do whatever I want lalo na ngayon na wala si Tristan sa Manila, I think he was in Malaysia with Phoenix for a business trip. He and dad are just so overprotective of me! They both treat me like I’m five! I really wanted to move here in Manila but dad wouldn’t let me. Buti nga nakatakas ako sa hacienda ngayon. I told him I was going to look for a job here. I used my acting skills on him, sabi ko sa kanya ayokong habang buhay manatili sa hacienda. I didn’t want to run his hacienda. I wanted to have a normal job. But not really… sinabi ko lang iyon para payagan niya akong magpunta sa Manila. Why would I get a job when we already have the money I could spend for the rest of my life without having to work for it? I’m just going to give it to someone who really needs the job.

I got dressed for the party at nagpasundo ako kina Amy. We all went to the party together, looking all gorgeous. I had a few drinks… a little too much. I was dancing around in my alcohol induced state, free from all the inhibitions. Next thing I knew, I was climbing- okay, stumbling up the platform with a bottle of alcohol in one hand and started dancing on top of it. Everyone started cheering for me na lalong nagpalakas ng loob ko. 

I was really dizzy but I kept on going. I held onto the pole in the middle of the platform and the cheer became louder. I tried to pole dance but I ended up losing my balance and falling off the platform. Instead of hitting the floor, I landed on a pair of arms.

“You are such a bad, bad girl Val…”  Narinig ko ang pamilyar na boses na nagpawala ng lasing ko. I looked up and saw a pair of dark and broodingly gorgeous eyes staring back at me. I felt my whole body freeze. He smiled at me and it wasn’t a friendly kind of smile. It was a warning smile, a vengeful one. I could feel my chest heaving violently and my heart pulsating out of control. He carried me away from the crowd, I didn’t know where he’ll take me.

“A-axel…”  I said in a small, panicky voice. 

“You know what I do to bad girls like you?”  He said in a dark tone of voice.

I felt my throat dry and I had to swallow before answering.  “No…”

“You’ll find out soon.”  He said with a wry smile before stepping into the elevator.

Chapter Three

“What is this, Atticus?”  Dad’s voice boomed all over the room. He threw a picture to me. I didn’t need to look at it to know what it was. It was my naked scandal photo. The moment he called me to his office I knew I was going to get a lecture. Thanks to that brat bitch Valerie.

“It’s a picture.”  I answered, matter-of-factly.

“Yes, I know it’s a picture! Don’t go smart on me, boy.”  He said through gritted teeth. “Why were you naked with an erect penis in front of all these people? What were you doing? Were you high?”

“Dad!”  I suddenly stiffened to my seat.  “No, God, no! I don’t do drugs.” 

  “Then explain to me this picture!”   He demanded.

 I rolled my eyes before taking a deep breath.  “I was at a club and this girl came up to me and started flirting with me. She brought me to the backstage, blindfolded me, and took off my clothes. Pagtanggal ko ng blindfold… that happened.”  I said glancing at the picture.

“I don’t know what I’m going to do with you anymore, Atticus!”  He sighed heavily as he leaned back to his swivel chair.  “You’re a twenty nine year old man yet you still act like a teenager!”  He chided in frustration.

“I’m sorry, dad.”  I said, hoping he’d let me off the hook.   “It’s not my fu–reaking fault! It was a set up. The bitch– I mean, the girl set me up.”

Sinapo niya ang ulo niya at hinilot iyon.

“You’re the reason why I still haven’t retired yet, do you know that? Matanda na ako, I’m already sixty years old. Dapat ikaw na ang namamahala ng kumpanyang ito pero hindi ko maiwan-iwan ito sa iyo.”  He shook his head disappointedly.  

“When are you going to grow up, Atticus? When are you going to stop fooling around and start taking things seriously?”

Yadda, yadda, yadda, blah, blah, blah…  I tuned out everything he was saying. I sat there for a good hour pretending to listen to him. 

I went straight to Wayne’s club pagkatapos ng mahabang sermon ni dad. I needed a drink to take the edge off.  And I needed to get my mind off of Valerie. Hindi siya mawala wala sa isip ko. I’ve been wanking like crazy to the thought of her dancing in front of me, just for me… with her breasts fully exposed. When she was dancing in front of me, it took all my strength not to react. I sort of felt bad when she cried but I knew she deserved it. That’s what she gets for messing with me. Pasalamat nga siya kapatid siya ni Tristan kung hindi I would have stuck to my original plan of fucking her to death.

Hindi na kami nagkibuan pagkatapos nang nangyari. Hinatid ko siya sa bahay ng kaibigan niya na si Trina kung saan siya tumutuloy at iyon ang huling beses na nakita ko siya. I was itching to see her again. I was about to have sex with this girl last night but my dick refused to spring to life. Ngayon lang nangyari sa akin iyon. I was freaking the fuck out last night. I thought I was having an erectile dysfunction but when I thought of Valerie, it instantly went stiff again. I ended up wanking myself to sleep.

I walked in the club looking for my friends.

“Hey, bro!”  Tawag sa akin ni Seth. Napalingon ako sa VIP lounge kung nasaan si Seth, Wayne, Phoenix at Tristan at dalawa pang babaeng kasama nila. The bouncer automatically lifted the velvet rope letting me in the lounge. 

Nakapulupot kay Seth at Wayne ang babaeng kasama nila habang si Tristan at Phoenix ay solong nakaupo sa tabi nila.  

  Umupo ako sa bakanteng upuan katabi ni Tristan.

“Phoenix is getting married.”  Wayne said.

“Really?”  Tumingin ako kay Phoenix. He smiled and nodded.

“Sigurado ka na ba sa desisyon mo? You really want to get married?”  Seth asked.

“Pag-isipan mo muna yan. There are alot of girls you haven’t fucked yet.”  Wayne said jokingly before patting him in the back.

 Phoenix chuckled.  “Tapos na ko diyan. I just want to settle down and have my own family. Cassie is pregnant with twins. Gusto kong lumaki ang mga anak ko na buo ang pamilya.”

“She’s pregnant with twins?”  Gulat na sabi ni Seth.  “Game over, man.”

Ngingiti-ngiting napailing na lang si Phoenix. Mukha naman masaya na siya kay Cassie. It showed in his face. Kahit noon pa man alam ko na iba na talaga si Cassie sa mga babaeng nakakarelasyon ni Phoenix. He was so in love with Cassie at nang makipaghiwalay ito sa kanya noon halos sirain niya na ang buhay niya.  Although hindi ako naniniwala sa kasal at love na yan, masaya na rin ako para sa kanila. At least, he was happy. 

We threw a little celebration for Phoenix. Pinadala ni Wayne ang ibang mga dancers sa club sa lounge. They were all beautiful, sexy women. Some of the girls were models. They started dancing in front of us. It was funny dahil parang allergic si Tristan at Phoenix sa mga babaeng iyon. They didn’t even pay attention to them. Lumapit ang isang babae sa akin at nagsimulang magsayaw sa harap ko. It reminded me of Valerie. Damn that brat!

She eventually lap danced me and started grinding her ass against my dick, I didn’t feel anything. My dick didn’t even flinch. 

“Sweety, no.”  Inilayo ko siya sa akin. It was just making me so fucking uncomfortable, her grinding her ass on me. What was happening to me? I used to have a libido of a lion.

Maagang umalis si Phoenix habang si Seth naman at si Wayne ay abala sa mga babaeng kasama nila. Kami na lang ni Tristan ang nag-iinuman.

“I saw your sister last week.”  Okay, I was trying to open a conversation about Valerie.  “Nandito pala siya sa Manila.”

“Yeah, she was trying to look for a job here. Ipinapasok ko siya sa kompanya pero ayaw niya naman.”  Kibit-balikat na sabi ni Tristan. “I doubt she even wanted a job. Gusto lang nun makaalis sa hacienda.”

“Is she still here?”  Tanong ko. I’ve been hanging out in places where her friends usually hang out. Ang mga kaibigan niya lang palagi ang nakikita ko.

“Bumalik na siya sa hacienda.”  Sagot ni Tristan. Now, I know where she was.

“You know, I wanna take a vacation for awhile.” S abi ko.  “Gusto kong lumayo muna dito.”

I really was planning to take a vacation. Gusto ko munang palamigin ang ulo ni dad. Nang malaman kong nasa hacienda na si Valerie naka-isip ako ng ideya.  

“Where are you planning to go?”  Tanong niya.

“Somewhere quiet and peaceful.”  Sagot ko.  “Katulad ng hacienda niyo. Yeah, maybe, I could take a vacation there.”

“Really? Gusto mong magbakasyon sa hacienda?”  Kunot ang noong tanong ni Tristan.

“Yeah, bakit?”

“I just think it’s not the kind of vacation you would enjoy.”  Sabi niya. Oh, I would enjoy it, alright…

“Gusto kong maiba naman.”  Kibit balikat na sabi ko.

“Sige, kung gusto mo talagang magbakasyon sa hacienda kakausapin ko si dad.”  Sabi niya.

Valerie’s POV

“Bakit bigla ka na lang umuwi d’yan sa hacienda niyo? Hindi ka man lang nagpaalam sa amin,”  Tanong ni Venus. I was lying in my bed, video chatting with the girls on my laptop. Pagkatapos nang nangyari sa condo ni Axel, I quickly packed my things when I got home at umuwi agad ako dito sa hacienda namin. I didn’t even had the chance to say goodbye to them.

“Malapit na kasi mag-fiesta dito.” D ahilan ko. I wasn’t lying. Malapit na talagang magfiesta dito sa amin but that wasn’t the reason why I went home. That jerk! He made me dance and strip in front of him! I felt so dirty because of what he made me do. I didn’t want to see him ever again. Okay na ako dito sa hacienda kahit forever na ako dito basta huwag na lang kaming magkita, ever!

“Someone at the party saw you leave with Axel.”  Trina raised her brows questioningly at me. 

“Did you have sex with him?”  Venus said

“Did he finally pop your cherry?”  Amy intruded.

“Nooooo…”  I shook my head. I only wanted one person to take my virginity… si David! He was my first love. Sure, I flirted with other guys but I just liked teasing them, I never slept with any of them. I was saving myself for David. Anak siya ng mayor dito sa lugar namin. We’ve been friends since childhood. When we were 14, he asked me to be his girlfriend and of course I said yes. Though we were young, we took our relationship seriously. But unfortunately, kinailangan nilang mag-migrate sa England. 

Nabalitaan ko na he just graduated with a master’s degree in law. Sabi niya pagkagraduate niya babalik siya dito at hanggang ngayon naghihintay pa rin ako sa pagbalik niya. When he comes back, we’ll get married, have a baby and live happily ever after. Hindi sa kagayan ni Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne (aka fuck buddy ng bayan) ibibigay ko ang virginity ko. Malayong-malayo ang David ko kay Axel. David was a smart, handsome, sophisticated gentleman. Axel was the complete opposite of him. Well, except the handsome part. I mean, I couldn’t deny that he was handsome but it was just that. He was just handsome, hot, and sexy. But all those didn’t matter at all. Okay, maybe just a little. One thing that really annoyed me was the fact that I still have dreams about him, sexy dreams.  But could you blame me? Axel was what you’d call every girl’s dream physically and I was a sexually frustrated twenty three year old virgin. Normal lang ito. This was just what you call ‘sexual infatuation’, si David pa rin ang true love ko. 

  “Why would I want to have sex with a man who has been in every girl’s vagina.”  I rolled my eyes at them.

“Eh ano lang ginawa niyo?”  Tanong ni Trina.

He made me strip and dance in front of him. He had seen my boobies!!! 

“He just, um, took me to his condo because I was so drunk and I slept there.”

I couldn’t tell them what really happened. I was too embarrassed.

“Walang nangyari sa inyo?”  Amy asked.

“Wala.”  Simpleng sagot ko.

“You two didn’t even make out?”  Venus asked with eyes wide open. I shook my head at the screen.

“Impossible!”  Trina said.  “That man sweats sex in every pore.”

The hell he does.

“You know I hate that asshole.”  Sabi ko.

“Oh, Val, when are you ever going to lose that cherry of yours?”  Venus said. They pity me for being a virgin.

“When David comes back.”  I said with a smile.

“What if he doesn’t? Are you going to stay a virgin forever?”  Tanong naman ni Trina.

“I know he’ll come back.”  I said, confidently. He promised he would. Pagkatapos namin mag-usap ay bumaba na ako para magmeryenda. 

“Hi, Val.”  Pababa pa lang ako sa hagdan nang makita ko si Axel kasama si dad. I could see the cheeky glint in his eyes. Oh my god! Did he show the video to dad?! Gusto ko ulit tumakbo pabalik sa kwarto ko at magtago pero parang napako ang paa ko sa kinatatayuan ko.

“Come down here, Valerie.”  Nakangiting sabi ni dad sa akin. Dahan-dahan akong bumaba sa hagdan. My heart beated against my chest with every step I took.

“I’m sure magkakilala na kayong dalawa.”  Sabi ni dad nang lumapit ako.

“Of course, Jaime. Val and I are good friends, aren’t we?”  He gazed at me meaningfully. I raised a brow and pursed my lips in annoyance. He smiled even wider.

“Halika na at nakahanda na ang pagkain natin.”  Sabi ni dad.

“I think I’ll eat in my room.”  Sabi ko.  “Dad, paakyatan mo na lang ako ng pagkain.”

“Saluhan mo kami ni Axel.”  Sabi ni dad.

“Yeah, Val, come eat with us. Iniiwasan mo ba ako?”  One corner of his lips tugged in a smirk.

“No, why should I?”  Nakataas ang kilay na sabi ko.

“Yun naman pala eh. Halika na.”  He grabbed me by the arm. I subtly tried to wiggle away from his grip ngunit lalo niyang hinigpitan ang pagkakahawak sa akin. Pareho kaming tumigil ng makahalata si dad at tumingin sa amin.

“Is there a problem?”  He asked with his brows furrowed.

“Nothing. Ang cute cute lang talaga ng anak mo, Jaime.”  He smiled at me and pinched my cheek hard. I slapped his hand hand away and looked at him defiantly. He chuckled even more. Asshole!

Nagkibit-balikat na lang si dad at tumalikod. He probably thought we were just fooling around. Para akong ragdoll na hinatak niya papunta sa veranda at inupo sa silya. He sat on the seat next to me. God, why was he here? Ano bang kailangan niya? Bumalik na nga ako ng hacienda para makalayo sa kanya tapos ito ngayon.

Nagkuwentuhan si dad at Axel habang kumakain kami. I was hungry kanina, now I lost my appetite!

“Hijo, sabi ni Tristan magbabakasyon ka daw dito ng isang linggo.” Sabi ni dad habang kumakain kami.

Muntik na akong mabilaukan sa kinakain ko ng marinig ko ang sinabi ni dad. One week? With this asshole? Help me God, Allah, Vishnu, Buddha or Tom Cruise.

“Yes, I need to get away from the city for awhile.” Sagot ni Axel.

“Tamang-tama maabutan mo ang fiesta dito sa amin. You’re always welcome here, Axel, kahit kailan mo gusto.” Dad said with a smile. Para akong pinagsakluban ng langit at lupa.

“No!” Mariin na sabi ko. Napatingin sila pareho sa akin. “You’re not welcome here, go somewhere else!”

“Valerie! “ Pinandilatan ako ng mata ni dad. “That’s not how we treat our guests!”

“Well, he is not MY guest!” Nakasimangot na sabi ko. “That guy is an asshole!”

“That’s not a nice thing to say, Val.” Axel said with an annoying grin.

“Apologize to him. Now Valerie!”  Dad voice was low yet firm. 

“Why would I apologize to him?!”  My voice raised. I glared at the son of a bitch and he was grinning like an idiot.

“Akala ko ba magpapakabait ka na?”  He said, cooly. He sighed and took out his phone, pretending to check something. But I knew he wasn’t checking anything. Ipinapaalala niya lang sa akin na nasa kanya ang video.

Natigil ako sandali. Baka ipakita niya kay dad iyon! He looked at me and winked. 

“E-excuse me.”  I quickly got up from my seat at pumunta ng kwarto ko. This will be one hell of a week! He’s going to use that video to blackmail me.

Chapter Four

“Valerie, open the door! We need to talk. Hindi ko hahayaang bastusin mo na lang ang bisita ko nang ganito.”  Mariin na sabi ni dad mula sa labas ng kwarto ko. He had been knocking on my door for the past few minutes. I told him na hindi ako lalabas nang kwarto hangga’t hindi niya pinaaalis ang Axel na iyon! I didn’t want to see his stupid face ever again! I couldn’t even stand breathing the same air as that asshole.

“I’ll talk to her, Jaime.”  Narinig kong sabi ni Axel. I shut my eyes tightly. Oh my god, no!  “Hey, princess, get out of your pillow castle.”  He said in an annoyingly sweet voice. I knew this week was going to be torture with this guy.  “Val, let’s talk. I forgive you. I just want us to be friends.”

What a prick! Forgive me for what? And he wanted us to be friends? That high functioning sociopath wanted to be a friend of mine? Kaya ba siya pumunta dito para makipagkaibigan sa akin? Well, that’s never going to happen. He had absolutely no chance of being my friend. 

I marched to the door and opened it. He was standing there with a sneer on his face.

“Friends? “  I said sarcastically.  “I smell hidden motives. Get away from me!”

“Valerie!”  Dad, who was standing next to him, shouted. “ Itong si Axel na nga ang nagkukumbaba sa’yo pagkatapos ng ginawa mo sa kanya, ganyan pa ang inaasal mo.“

I looked at Axel with my eyes squinted in a glare. Oh, now he was playing the victim card! Ako pa ngayon ang masama? What lies did he say to my dad? Why was he siding with this douche?!

“Look, Val, I forgive you and your friends for playing a prank on me at the club.”  He said, suddenly acting like a gentle pig! Ah, he already told dad what I did to him. But he didn’t tell him what he did to me! Well, I wouldn’t want dad to know that I gave him a strip tease anyway.  “Gusto ko lang naman na magkasundo na tayo at maging magkaibigan.”

Over my dead sexy body! 

“Sorry, marami na akong friends, eh.”  I said, sarcastically.  

“Valerie, why don’t you just give him a chance?”  Sabi ni dad. “He came all the way here from Manila para lang makipag-ayos sa iyo.”

He was the reason why I left Manila!!!

“You really want me to be friends with this guy, dad?”  I looked at him in disbelief. I couldn’t believe he didn’t know or even sensed what an asshole he was.  “He’s an arrogant douchebag, a womanizer, a jerk and he has no morals!”

“Oh come on, Val, that’s not true at all.”  He pretended to look hurt. But when dad wasn’t looking he smirked evilly at me. It took all my will not to jump on him and strangle him.  

“I apologize for my daughter’s behavior, Axel. Sometimes I think she was born without a filter of what she should or shouldn’t say or do.”  Dad said, shaking his head dissappointedly at me.

“It’s alright.”  Sabi niya kay dad bago tumingin sa akin.  “Will you excuse us for a moment, Jaime? Val and I needs to have a little talk.”  He said. Before I could do anything, he quickly grabbed me at inilayo niya ako kay dad, dinala niya ako sa dulo nang hallway where he couldn’t hear us. Pinilit kong kumawala sa kanya pero parang bakal na nakapulupot sa wrist ko ito. 

“I thought you said you’d be good.”  He softly said with a mocking smile.

“Umalis na nga ako sa Manila para hindi ko na makita yang pagmumukha mo tapos sinundan mo pa ako dito!”  I said, angrily.  “Tigilan mo na ako, please!”

“Geez, wala naman akong ginagawa sayo.”  He said with a look of amusement on his face.  “Would it fucking kill you to be nice to me for even just ten fucking seconds.”

“You don’t deserve nice.” 

“You don’t either. BUt

 I’m still being nice to you. I’m not a bad person, Val, but I’m not a good one too. So, don’t fucking push my buttons. Trust me, you wouldn’t want to get on my bad side.“  He was smiling but his voice was sharp as a razor.  “Gusto mo bang ipakita ko kay Jaime ang video mo?”

I was so mad at him I couldn’t do anything but give him an icy glare as I shake my head.

“You just have to be nice to me for one fucking week. I’ll delete the video after that.”  He said before pinching my nose. I narrowed my eyes at him. “Deal?”

“I hate you.”  I said with a touch of resignation in my voice.  

He grinned.  “The feeling is mutual.”  Tumingin siya kay dad na nakatingin din sa amin. Kinuha niya ang kamay ko at hinatak pabalik sa kinatatayuan ni dad. 

“Ok na kami, Jaime.”  He said wrapping his arm around my shoulder.  “Hindi ba, Val?”

I slowly nodded my head, unsmiling while subtly trying to shrug his arm off of me. He pulled me even closer to him instead.  

“Great.”  Dad smiled. “Why don’t you give him a tour around our hacienda, take him horseback riding.”

“M-masama ang pakiramdam ko.”  Dahilan ko.

“I think you just need some fresh air to make you feel better.”  Sabi ni Axel. I felt him squeeze my shoulder, I looked up at him and he was looking at me with the most annoying smile I’ve ever seen in my whole entire life. One week, Valerie. Just one week…  I reminded myself before   letting out a breath that I hadn’t realize I was holding.  I will survive. I can survive being with this asshole.

“Pati ba naman kotse mo pink?” He snorted when he saw my hot pink car. 

“So? What’s wrong with that?”  Tinaasan ko siya ng kilay.

“It looks like a fucking life size barbie doll car.” Sabi niya. “And you look like a barbie hooker. Mukhang pang 8 year old yang damit mo na pinilit mo lang ipagkasya sayo. Wala ka bang disenteng damit?” His eyes raked over my body. I was wearing a pink body hugging tank top, white skirt that reached my mid thighs and pink stilletos. 

“Ano’ng gusto mong suotin ko? Filipiniana?”  I said sarcastically.

He let out a chuckle. I rolled my eyes at him bago ako padabog na pumasok sa kotse.  Konting tiis lang, Valerie. Gusto ka lang asarin niyan. Kapag naasar ka, talo ka.  Agad naman siyang sumunod at umupo sa passenger’s seat.

“Bakit ba nakabusangot ka ng nakabusangot?”  He asked. Tinatanong pa niya kung bakit?  “Smile.” 

I turned my head to him and gave him the fakest smile. Then, I started the car and drove off. I gave him a quick tour around the hacienda bago ko hininto ko ang kotse sa horse stable. Dad said I should bring him here so I did. I took out my favorite horse, Mitsy. She was a beautiful white horse with gorgeous mane. Nilagay ko ang pink na saddle niya sa likod.

“You’ve got to be fucking kidding me.”  Natatawang sabi ni Axel habang pinanonood ako.

“What?”  I looked at him.

“Pink saddle? Seriously, Val?”  He chuckled.  “You’re like a fucking grown child.”

“Bakit ba lahat na lang pinakikialaman mo?”  I said as I struggle to climb up my horse. Sumabit pa ang heels ko sa stirrup.  I ended up lying bent over on my stomach across the saddle, with my butt up in the air. I was pretty sure he had a full view of my butt dahil maikli lang ang suot kong skirt.

He whistled as he looked at it like if he was looking at a painting at a museum.  “Hm, nice thong. Pink din.” 

I struggled to pull down the back of my skirt. What a shameless manyak! I so regret not changing into pants. 

“Bastos ka talaga. Walang modo!”  I spat out. Asshole! Naku, kung legal lang talaga ang pumatay ng tao…

“Psh. Nahihiya ka pang ipakita, eh nahawakan ko na yan.”  He said with an arrogant smile on his face. I could feel myself turn crimson red nang bumalik sa isip ko ang nangyari sa club.. when he felt me  down there. Why does he have to remind me of that?!  I shook my foot trying to untanggle it from the stirrup at sumampa ako sa likod ng kabayo.

Sumunod siyang sumampa at umupo sa likod ko. I straightened when I felt the warmth of his hard chest against my back. I gasped inwardly w hen he placed his hands on the sides of my waist just below my breasts. 

“Now, teach me how to ride this babe, cowgirl.”  He said in a low, raspy voice that made me gulp. That simple sentence sounded so sexy when he said it.

I shook the bridle and Mitsy started to move. Our body bounced up and down with each gallop. It felt so good, my body pressed against his chest. I think I could even feel the thump of his heart.I leaned to his body, happy to surrender my weight to him. 

“I’ve heard girls that ride horses are really good at riding men. Is that true?”  He said. Though I couldn’t see him dahil nasa likod ko siya, I sensed a grin on his face.

“If you want to know then you’ll have to find out yourself.”  I said teasingly. Fine. If he wanted to play the dirty flirting game with me then I say bring it on.

“Hmm… what a tempting idea. Do you like being on top?”  He asked.

“Favorite position.”  I lied. I’ve never even gone to second base.

“Oh, I can imagine.”  I felt him sigh deeply.

I could feel something hard poking on my lower back. Was he having an erection? That thought of that brought heat between my thighs.

“Can you go faster, cowgirl?”  He asked. I did what he asked me to do. I urged Mitsy to go faster. He pulled me even closer to him until I was practically sitting on his crotch.I wasn’t wearing anything but a thin thong under my skirt.  I could feel him, his thing, poking on my bare butt cheek kahit na naka pants pa siya. I bounced up and down on it dahilan ng paggalaw ng kabayo. He slid his hands under my breasts, cupping them and lightly lifting. 

No… No! This is wrong! We were practically having dry sex out here in the open and someone might see us. Wait, does that mean bibigay ako kung walang makakakita sa amin? I squirmed away from him.

“I- I think we should go home.”  Mahinang sabi ko. Or else, he’d be popping my cherry on top of my poor Mitsy.

Chapter Five

What happened earlier was so embarrassing. I couldn’t even look at him in the eye. Hindi naman siya nagprotesta nang pinigil ko siya although I kind of wish he did. I paused at my thought. Ano ba itong iniisip ko? This wasn’t how my daddy raised me! 

“Kumusta naman ang pamamasyal niyo? Nag-enjoy ba kayo?”  Sinalubong kami ni dad pagpasok namin ng bahay. 

“Ofcourse. We had so much fun, didn’t we, Val?”  I looked up at him and he gave me a meaningful wink, it made me blush thinking about what happened. I could tell by the look of his smug face that he was up to something. I wanted to run up to my room and lock myself in there for a hundred years! 

I swallowed, trying to clear my dry throat. He chuckled a little. He was making me nervous and he knew it. Bwisit talaga itong lalaking ito! Napakawalanghiya. He just loved seeing me like this.

“But it’s a shame we didn’t reach the peak.”  He faked a sigh and glanced at me. My eyes widened with shock. Oh God, oh God, oh God… It was definitely a sexual innuendo referring to what we did.

“O-of the hill.”  I said, almost automatically. I was worried dad would notice his innuendo.  “N… napagod kasi si Mitsy kaya hindi namin naakyat yung… yung burol/”  I stuttered, trying to explain.

“Mitsy didn’t seem to mind. 

Ikaw lang ang nag-ayang umuwi.“  He snickered.

“She’s just so protective of her horse. 

Ayaw niyang napapagod ang alaga niya. She had that horse since she was 18, I bought it for her birthday.“  Dad smiled fondly.

“Ah, no wonder she’s so good at riding.”  

“Horses.”  I had to add. Okay, I tried my hard to look calm but inside I was totally freaking out.

“Of course horses. What else would you be riding, silly?”  Axel said with an amused laugh.

Your dick… almost.  Oh, my filthy mind. What had he done to me?! Simula nung nangyari sa club kung anu-ano na ang pumapasok sa isip ko. That perverted jerk corrupted my squeaky clean mind! I used to not think about sex or even dream about doing it with anyone. And now, I’m thinking about dick… his dick and how his buldge felt against my… oh God! I was even thinking about it in front of my dad!

“I bet you’ve ridden a lot of horses, huh?”  He smirked, his eyes glistening with malice as if he could read my mind.

I gave him a glare.  “Yes, in fact, I’ve ridden all kinds of horses… in all shapes and sizes, Axel.”  I said in a teasing tone to cover up my embarrassment. His smirk slowly disappeared, his adam’s apple bobbed as he swallowed. I smiled as I saw him tense up.  Yeah, imagine it… Imagine what you can’t have.

I faced daddy who was looking cluelessly at us and kissed him on the cheek.  “Good night, daddy.”   And then I looked back at Axel.

“Good night, Axel.”  I said sweetly, subtly biting my bottom lip. He just looked back at me with a stiff expression. “Have a sweet, sweet dream.”   I winked at him before turning around and heading to my room. 

Ayoko na! Ayoko na talaga! I’ve only spent a day with him and I’m already turning in to something i don’t even know. I slumped down on my bed. I feel like he could have me with a snap of his fingers and I’d be opening my legs and letting him inside me. He made me feel things I’ve never felt before and he made me want to do things I never ever want to do before. I should really stay away from him. He wasn’t good for me. He just wanted to get in my pants and I wouldn’t let him. I better start wearing chastity belt around him because that’s the only way I could keep him out. Or I could just leave the hacienda and go back to Manila. Yeah, I think the second option would be better. 

Axel’s POV

My plan on torturing her was backfiring on me. I was the one being tortured here. Hindi ako makatulog kagabi kakaisip sa nangyari. I almost jizzed my pants while she was bouncing up and down my dick. I had to sleep with blue balls last night because I couldn’t get it off my mind. I would’ve fucked her right there if she hadn’t stopped me. This was bad. I wasn’t supposed to be doing that. I wasn’t supposed to be dry humping Tristan’s sister and I definitely shouldn’t fuck her… even if she’s a cock teasing little boner enforcer. I envy the men who got to hold her, touch every inch of her skin, and kiss her intimate parts. I felt a gut wrenching feeling in my stomach at the thought of it.

What was I doing, teasing myself with something I couldn’t have…

Why does she have to Tristan’s sister?

“Good morning, hijo.”  Bati sa akin ni Jaime nang mapadaan ako sa veranda. He was sitting on the table with a guy I’ve never seen before.

“Good morning.”  Lumapit ako sa kanila.

“I’d like you to meet David, Valerie’s childhood friend.”  He said. The guy stood up and offered his hand to me for a handshake. I looked at him for a moment. Everything about him screams preppy. He had a perfectly slicked back hair and was immaculately dressed with blue polo shirt and khahki shorts. I hated those boring preppy fucks who thinks they’re better than everyone.  

“David, pare.”  He said, waiting for me to take his hand. 

“Axel.” A nd I shook it. I couldn’t help but look at him as a rival. He was Valerie’s childhood friend, he grew up with her, he knew more about her than I ever will.  Why does it even matter? 

“Axel, is my son’s friend and he’d be staying here for a week.”  Sabi ni Jaime bago tumingin sa akin.  “You sit here and have your breakfast, hijo.”

I sat on Jaime’s right side, across David. I gazed at him, measuring him calmy. He looked at me in gave me what I thought was a cocky smile. I smiled back at him but inside, deep inside, I was screaming ASSHOLE! I haven’t even spoken more than two words to him but I hated him instantly. Maybe it was the way he carried himself… he looked pretentious, so haughty and superior.

“I heard the news about your son. Masaya akong nakita niyo na siya.”  David said.

“Ah yes, Tristan. We’re happy to have him back in our family after so many years…”  Jaime said with a smile.

Nag-usap kaming tatlo. I found out he graduated with a law degree in England and recently passed his bar exam there. I felt small compared to him. I didn’t like it. I had never felt small, never. Pakiramdam ko wala akong maipagmamalaki. He made me feel like a parasite feeding off my father’s wealthy status. He was the kind of guy fathers would want their daughters to marry. I’m sure Jaime would prefer him to date his daughter than me… Wait a minute, what do I care? Who the fuck cares if Jaime wanted David for Val?

“Anyway, where’s Valer-”  David stopped mid-sentence when he heard Valerie.

“Daddy! Daaaaddy!”  Valerie was screaming like a banshee from inside the house.

“Speaking of my princess. So early in the morning.”  Jaime lazily rolled his eyes as if he was already used to it.  “I’m at the veranda, sweetheart!”  Sigaw niya. 

“She never changed.”  David chuckled, shaking his head.

We watched as she came storming out pulling a luggage trolley.  “Daddy, I already talked to Trina last night and I’m going back to-”  She paused when she the asshole.  “D-david?”

“Angel…”  Ngumiti si David at tumayo.

She dropped her trolley and ran straight to David flunging her arms around his neck.  “Dave, oh god! I missed you…”  She hugged him hard, crushing her breasts against his chest .She was VERY gifted in that department, I’ve seen it bare.  An unexpected feeling of annoyance struck me seeing those lovely pair of jugs pressed against someone else.

“I missed you too, angel.”  He said, not letting go of the hug. 

How romantic.  I sarcastically thought, trying to not roll my eyes. How come I didn’t get that warm welcome yesterday? 

“Ano yung sinasabi mo, Valerie?”  Tanong ni Jaime. Naghiwalay lang sila ng magsalita na ang ama niya. She looked at her dad dumbfounded.

“N-nothing… I just wanna say good morning.”   She smiled sweetly before returning her attention to the asshole.  “I’m so happy to see you again! Kailan ka pa umuwi dito?”

“Kahapon lang. I gave myself a full day to recover from my jet lag so I could spend the whole day with you.”  He said and he eyed her from head to toe. “God, you’ve grown in to a beautiful woman.”

“Oh, Dave!”  She hugged him again. I clenched my fists to control my irritation.

“You two have plenty of time to catch up later. Kumain na muna tayo.”  Sabi ni Jaime. Valerie sat next to David. She glanced at me, noticing my stares and I gave her a twisted smile, trying to remind her of what happened yesterday. She quickly looked away, her cheeks flushing.

Kumain kami at nag-usap ang dalawa tungkol sa nakaraan nila. They were reminiscing about the past, the things they did when they were younger. I felt an unexplainable pang while listening to them.  

“Natatandaan mo pa nung bata pa tayo madalas tayong pumunta doon sa may talon para maligo.”  David said laughing. 

“Oh, yeah… you still remember…”  Her eyes twinkled as she looked at him. 

“Of course, hinding hindi ko makakalimutan iyon.”  The asshole said, smiling like an idiot.

“Why don’t we go there today? We could have a picnic and go for a swim just like we used to.”  Sabi ni Valerie.

My preppy rival agreed.  “Uuwi muna ako pagkatapos kumain para kunin ang gamit ko and then I’ll pick you up later.”  

“Okay.”  She answered sweetly.

“I’ll go with you guys.”  I said in a casual tone. Nawala ang ngiti ni Valerie.

She looked at me annoyed before facing Jaime. “Dad , di ba you’re going to play golf today? Why don’t you just take Axel with you?” 

“Yeah, that’s a good idea.”  I said with a mocking smile and Valerie’s face instantly paled she saw it. She already knew what was coming.  “Para naman maipakita ko sa kanya ang-”

“On second thought, I think you should come with us.”  She nervously chuckled.  “Hindi pala kita nadala dun kahapon. You’ll love it.”

“I’m sure I will.”  I said with a smile of triumph plastered on my face before taking a sip of my orange juice.

“Maipakita sa akin ang ano?”  Jaime’s brows furrowed and Valerie was back on panic mode. I took a while to answer for suspense and just because I loved seeing that look on Valerie’s pretty face.

“My golfing skills.”  Valerie leaned back to her chair and breathed a sigh of relief when I finally did answer. It was a power play to rattle her cage. I wanted her to know that I had full control of her.

---

CHUPEPAY thank you ulit sa cover (sa media section) , I really appreciate it.

Chapter Six

Valerie’s POV

“Behave like a civilized human being.” I firmly told him when I saw David’s car coming. I was so pissed off right now I couldn’t even look at him, I knew he’d just annoy me even more with that smug look of satisfaction on his face. He had ruined my day and it hadn’t even started yet. Dapat kami lang ni David ang magkasama ngayon! We hadn’t seen each other for years, this was supposed to be our moment together! Why did he have to ruin it?

 He chuckled.  “That’s funny coming from a girl who pole danced like a common stripper.”

I threw him a glare over my shoulder and he broked out in laughter. He sure knew how to annoy me. Finally, David’s car pulled up in front of us. He got out of his car and saw him looking all handsome. I felt butterflies in my stomach when he looked at me and smiled. 

Oh, David…  I stared at him dreamily. He was like a prince charming rescuing me from the horribly sexy villain standing next to me. Did I say sexy? No, no, no! I meant annoying.

“Hey.”  He flashed his pearly white teeth which made me smile back. He was even more handsome than the last time I saw him years ago and like always he took my breath away. 

“Hey!”  I said with a wide smile. 

“Let’s go?”  He asked and I nodded my head.

“Sure.”  I hooked my arms on his right arm and hugged it like it was my own teddy bear.  Then I felt a hard shove from my back that I almost lost balance. Lumingon ako sa likod ko at tinitigan ko ng masama ang buwis na impaktong iyon! I knew it! He was so going to ruin our date!

“What?!”  I scowled. 

“Carry your own fucking bag! Nobody’s going to do it for you.”  He said, dropping my bag on the floor. I totally forgot it, binaba ko siya kanina sa sahig dahil mabigat. But geez, he didn’t have to be an asshole. Sandali kaming nagtitigan. He looked at me like I had done something horribly wrong. 

  “I’ll carry it.”  Sabi ni David, his voice quickly broke our gaze. Dinampot niya ang bag ko.

“Thank you, Dave.”  I smiled at him. I could see him from my peripheral vision giving me a hard glare. Then he walked passed us and went straight to the car.

“What’s his problem?”  Tanong ni David nang maiwan kaming dalawa.

I shrugged my shoulders.  “Don’t mind him. Kalalabas lang niyan sa mental hospital kaya ganyan yan. He probably forgot to take his meds this morning.”

David chuckled.

I hadn’t gone here for a long time. The falls was as beautiful as I remembered. The pool where the falls drop was crystal clear you could see the rocks in the bottom of it. This was were David and I used to have our little dates, our favorite place.

Perfect na sana. May asungot lang kaming kasama. We set up a picnic under the shade of a tree next to the water. Hindi man lang siya tumulong. He just leaned on the tree with his arms crossed, looking all high and mighty, while he watches us.

David brought a picnic basket full of goodies. 

“May ibibigay ako sa’yo. Sana magustuhan mo.”  He reached for something in the basket. Oh my god! Is it a ring? Is he going to finally propose to me?! Oh em gee! This is it!  

“Ikaw agad ang naisip ko ng makita ko ito.”  It was a long box with a Tiffany & Co logo. Okay, it wasn’t a ring but it was still better than nothing. I smiled to hide my disappointment. He handed it to me and I opened it. It was a gold necklace with a V pendant.

“It’s so beautiful. 

Can you put it on me?“  Malambing na sabi ko. He nodded, taking the necklace from me. I turned around and he wrapped it around me and clipped it together. Humarap ako sa kanya and he smiled that beautiful smile.

“It looks perfect on you, princess.”  He said. My heart melts everytime he calls me princess. We used to play princess and prince together when we were little. Mula noon palagi niya na akong tinatawag na princess. I was glad he never forgot about it.

“Thank you, Dave!”  I threw my arms around his neck and I felt his wrapping around my waist. It was quickly broken when Axel came shoving between us. Umupo siya sa pagitan namin. I threw him a spiteful look and he just winked at me. He so ruined the moment! Gusto ko siyang hatakin sa tubig at lunurin.

“Hindi pa ba tayo kakain?”  He asked. Kahit kailan talaga panira ang lalaking ito!

“Naaalala mo pa noong naglalaro tayo ng taguan. Madalas kang umakyat sa puno para hindi kita makita.”  Natatawang sabi ni David habang kumakain kami. 

“Alam ko naman na hindi mo ko makikita kasi di ka marunong umakyat ng puno.”  Nakangiting sabi ko. I still remember those times.

“You’re just so darn good at climbing trees.”  Sabi ni David.

“You know what else Valerie is good at?”  Sumingit si Axel.

“What?”  Tanong ni David.

“Dancing.”  Axel grinned. There he was again, ready to attack.  “Alam mo bang magaling sumayaw si Valerie?”

“Actually, no.”  David said, smiling. Then he looked at me.  “How come you didn’t tell me you dance?” 

“You should’ve seen her when she-”  I shoved a sandwich in Axel’s big potty mouth before he could finish his sentence.

“Tikman mo ’to, ang sarap no?”  I faked a big smile. He smiled back while chewing his food and nodding his head. Why was he doing this to me? Why was he making my life hell?

“Halika, Dave, let’s go for a swim.”  Aya ko sa kanya. I wanted some alone time with him, away from this jerk. I was already wearing a two piece swimsuit under my clothes so I just had to take off my shirt.

Bago pa ako makatayo, Axel grabbed my wrist.

“You just ate.”  He said.

“So?”  Tumaas ang kilay ko.

“You can’t swim after you eat, you’ll throw up.”  Sabi ng impakto.

Biglang tumunog ang phone ni David.  “Let me just get this call.”  He stood up and answered his phone. David walked around, probably looking for a good signal. I was left alone with this jerk.

My eyes narrowed at him and he gave me that stupid smug smile. He takes pleasure in annoying me every chance he gets. 

“Are those real?”  He asked, staring at my chest.

Nanlaki ang mga mata ko sa tanong niya. I was only wearing a tiny pink strapless bikini top so I quickly covered my breasts with my arms.  “Bastos ka talaga!”  Sigaw ko sa kanya.  “O-ofcourse they’re real!”  I didn’t even know why I felt the need to answer that stupid question.

Tumawa siya ng malakas. “I’ve been wanting to ask you that question for a long time.”  

“Wala ka talagang modo. Why can’t you be a gentleman like David!” 

“You know what they say, gentlemen are just patient wolves. I bet he wouldn’t be so gentle when he bangs your pretty little cunt.”  He said, nonchalantly.

I winced at his explicit language. My cheeks burned red, I didn’t know if it was because I was embarrased, angry or both. This man was just unbelievable.

“Huwag mong itulad sa’yo si David! Hindi siya katulad mo!”

“Of course not! I fuck better than him. Why don’t you ask your friends?”  He smirked.  

Inirapan ko siya bago ako tumayo. I didn’t want to waste my breath anymore, it was impossible to win with Axel. He was a massive, shameless asshole. Naiinis talaga ako sa kanya. But the last sentence he said, pissed me off the most. Naiinis akong isipin na natikman na siya ni Amy, Trina at Venus! I didn’t know why but I hated the idea of that. I dipped in the water to cool my head off.

I swam a little until I felt something in my bikini top. I swear, I felt it move. Nahinto ako sa kinatatayuan ko. 

“A-axel…”  I called out his name in a shaky voice. I could see him sitting under the tree, looking at me. “AXEL!”  This time I screamed. The first thing that came in my mind was water snake but I didn’t have the guts to find out myself.

“What?”  Kunot ang noong tanong niya.

“AXEEEEEL!”  I totally freaked out when I felt it move again. Hinubad niya ang shirt niya at lumusong sa tubig.

“What the fuck is your problem now?” 

“T-t-there’s something inside my…”  I pointed at my bikini top.  “Get it out! Please, get it out!” 

Ngumiti siya.  “Ah, now you need me.”

“Axel! Get it out!”  I shrieked.

“Say you need me.”  He said with an arrogant smile.  “Say ‘Axel, I need you’. Come on, say it, Val.”

I tightly shut my eyes and took a deep breath. “A-axel, I need you.”

 Ipinasok niya ang kamay niya sa bikini top ko. I could feel his hand on my bare breast. Kinapaka niya ang dibdib ko. The warmth of his hand felt so good against my breast I had to bite my lower lip. 

“It’s just a fish.”  Sabi niya nang makuha niya na iyon. He held it by the tail and showed it to me. I could feel my cheeks burning again. How could I be so stupid? Hindi ko naisip na baka isda lang iyon! 

“They really are real.”  Nakangising sabi niya. Hindi ko agad naintindihan ang sinabi niya pero nang magbalik sa isip ko ang tinanong niya sa akin kanina I swear, my cheeks were already the deepest red. He was talking about my breasts!

I splashed him with water.  “Pervert!”

Tumawa siya ng malakas. Nakita ko si David na naglalakad pabalik sa ilalim ng puno. I quickly got out of the water and went to him. Hindi ko na enjoy ang araw na iyon. Axel was like a brick wall between me and David.

Axel’s POV

David’s car stopped in front of the estate. Gabi na ng makabalik kami. He was driving the car and Valerie was sitting on the passenger’s seat next to him. I felt a sense of… envy. David got to watch Valerie grow up, he saw her cry the time she fell off the tree, he chased her around the playground, he got see her painfully embarrasing moments, and her innocent smiles, he got to hear her careless laughs and he got to watch her grow up in to the woman she is now. He knew so much about her than I ever would.

“Goodnight.”  Narinig kong sabi ni David.

“Goodnight.”  Valerie smiled at him. They hugged again. I didn’t want to see it so I got out of the car and went inside the house. Agad akong umakyat papunta sa kwarto ko. I stood in front of my door and right as I was about to turn the knob, I heard Valerie’s banshee voice screaming at me.  I turned my head and there she was angrily stomping her feet towards me. 

“Hoy, ikaw lalaki ka!”  She stopped in front of me and jabbed her pointing finger on my chest.  “Hindi mo ba ako titigilan, ha? Wala kang isang salita. Ginawa ko naman ang gusto mo, I- I danced in front of you. Bakit hanggang ngayon ginugulo mo pa rin ako? Ano bang kailangan mo sa akin?”

I sighed before turning back to the door and twisting the knob. I wasn’t in the fucking mood to argue with this brat. More than anything, I just wanted a nice bath and some peace and quiet with no ear damage.

“Ang sabi ko hindi ko ipapadala ang video kay Tristan o kay Jaime.”  I said in an undertone as I walked inside my room.  “I never said I wouldn’t show it to them.”

“Walanghiya ka talaga!”  Inis na sabi niya at walang sabi-sabing sumunod sa kwarto. Jesus Chris t! Why did she have to follow me inside my room? I almost fucked her on top of her horse outside and God knows what could happen in here! 

“I’m tired, Val.”  I yawned.  “Get out of my room.”

“Hoy, baka nakakalimutan mo. Pamamahay ko pa rin ito!”  She crossed her arms over her chest and stared at me with quivering fury.

“Fine.”  I closed the door.  “Feel free to stay as long as you like.”

I could see the way she tensed up the moment the door closed. Her expression changed from anger to a baffled frown. Damn it! What was I getting myself into?

“Y-you’ve had your fun, Axel.”  Her voice was evidently softer this time.   “Now, delete the video.”

“Napag-usapan na natin yan, Val. Five more days.”  I said in a casual tone to cover up how affected I was by her presence.  “I’m going to take a shower. Goodnight.” 

“Nobody dismisses me like-”  She stopped mid-sentence when I lifted my shirt over my head and tossed it. Mula sa mukha ko, bumaba ang mga mata niya sa dibdib ko at sa tiyan. Just watching her staring at me like that made me feel hot. The tension between us was strong, I knew the slightest intimacy would set us both in an explosion of uncontrollable lust. It felt like a ticking time bomb waiting to happen. 

I reached for the button on my pants and popped it free, slowly sliding it down along with my underwear. Her breath hitched beautifully and I couldn’t help but think of all the ways I could make the sound fall from her lips again. 

“Enjoying the view?”  I said cooly. She was already red, her forehead glistening with sweat as she looked at my dick with wide eyes. Her eyes went back on my face and she stood up straight with her head held high, faking confidence.

“I hate you!” 

I walked closer to her until we were only inches from each other. She just stood there stiffly but I could hear her breath heaving up and down, I felt like I could even hear a faint heartbeat. I lifted my hand and gently touched her face.   “Hate is an exciting emotion, Val. Really exciting.”  I tucked her hair behind her ear, running a finger along her jawline and cupping her chin.  “I hate you too. In fact, I hate you so much I want to fuck the shit out of you.”  I said in a low, intense voice.

As if she could read the lust in my eyes, she glared at me with growing panic in her eyes. Agad siyang napaurong mula sa akin at halos patakbong lumabas sa kwarto.

The reaction on her face was priceless. I wanted to laugh but couldn’t. Not with this painful erection I tried so hard to stop from happening. I quickly went to the bathroon and blasted the cold water from the shower and stepped in, feeling immediate, blessed relief.

Damn that stubborn brat! Damn her!

Chapter Seven

Valerie’s POV

I couldn’t believe I saw his penis! Oh my god, I saw his penis! It was massive! Shit! Why couldn’t I stop thinking about it? I couldn’t stop thinking about the way he slowly undressed in front of me, his beautiful naked body, the way his already dark eyes darkened even more when he told me ‘he wanted to fuck the shit out of me’. That was the hottest thing I’ve ever heard in my life. It scared me how I got turned on by his filthy language. He made dirty words sound so sexy.

Dear Lord, I’m a pervert.

“Um, hello? Earth to Valerie!”  I snapped back from my thoughts when I heard Venus calling me. I almost forgot I was video chatting with my friends.

“Huh?”

“I said I thought you were going back here in Manila today.” Sabi ni Venus. 

“We waited for you. What happened?”  Tanong naman ni Trina.  “Bakit nandyan ka pa rin sa Bilibid prison two-point-oh?”

“David is back.”  I said.

“What?!”  I could see Amy’s eyes widened.  “Oh my god! Finally!”

“Bakit hindi ka yata masaya? Dapat nagsisigaw at nagtatalon ka na sa tuwa d’yan?”  Venus noticed.

“Kasi nandito din si Axel! Ayaw niya akong tigilan. He’s ruining everything.”  I pouted like a little girl.  

“What? Si Axel? As in Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne?”  Lumapit ang mukha ni Trina sa screen.

“Yes! That douche!” 

“Oh my god! What is he doing there?”  Gulat na tanong ni Amy.

“He’s here to ruin my life! 

Alam niya na ako yung babaeng nakilala niya sa club.“  I bit my bottom lip. 

“Eh ano naman kung alam niya na?”  Sabi ni Venus.

“Well, umm, remember the party we went to? He took a video of me pole dancing while I was drunk. Tinatakot niya ako na ipakikita niya iyon kay daddy.”  Hanggang dun lang ang malalaman nila. I won’t ever tell them about what happened in his condo. Never. Over my dead sexy body.

They thought of ways of helping me get rid of Axel like putting rat poisin in his drink, hiring a hitman to shoot him, and bathtub electrocution. 

“Good morning.”  I opened my eyes and saw Axel sitting on the pink rocking chair next to the bed and staring at me.

I furrowed my brows, still disoriented. Was I still dreaming? Oh my god! Was it one of those erotic dreams again?  “Hey…”  I smiled at him. It’s okay to indulge in a dream once in a while. After all, this was just a dream.

“Hey princess…”  He smiled a dirty smile.  “You probably really liked what you saw last night, huh? Did you dream of me?”

Mothertrucker! This wasn’t a dream! I quickly sat up against the headboard, pulling my sheets up to my chest. Why did he had to attack so early in the morning? I was so not a morning person!   Play it cool, Valerie.   “Y-yeah, like I’d dream about your little limp dick!” 

“Little? Limp?”  His smile disappeared and he looked at me with one brow arched.

Hah! I guess I won this round.

“It’s a pity, you know? I thought you’d be more- I don’t know, big?”  And then I burst in to laughter. Seeing him like lose his arrogant composure gave me confidence.  “Maybe the reason why your dick is so small is because you took half of it and shoved it in to your personality.”

“Nah, maybe you just got too used to fucking your horses.”  He retorded.  “You must be so loose now.”

“Aba’t-”  I took a pillow and threw it at him. He catched it and his smirk reappeared. I shouldn’t really be arguing with him anymore. The only winning move with him was to not play at all. That guy was naturally an asshole that he was probably even conceived through backdoor action.

I crossed my arms over my chest and gave him a glare.  “Ano bang ginagawa mo dito? Ang aga-aga sinisira mo ang araw ko!”

“Your dad asked me to wake you up. Sasamahan mo kong mamasyal sa barrio.”  Sabi niya.

“Mag-isa ka!”  Humiga ulit ako at tinakpan ang ulo ko ng kumot. I thought that by doing that he would leave me alone but no, not Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne.

“Aaahhh!”  He carried me like a sack of potato papunta sa bathroom. I tried wiggling to no avail. Damn, he was so strong. He dropped me in my tub and without a warning turned on the shower.

“Walanghiya ka talaga, Axeeeeel!”  Tili ko when I felt the cold water on my body.

“Maligo ka na, 30 minutes, Val. Kapag hindi ka pa rin sa bumaba pagkatapos ng 30 minutes, bubuhatin kita palabas ng kwarto mo at itatapon pababa sa hagdan. At wala akong pakialam kung nakahubad ka pa o hindi.”  He said before closing the bathroom door.

Really? He had got to be kidding me? 30 minutes? The shower alone takes me half an hour, then I have to do my make up and fix my hair and pick something to wear! Why was this happening to me? Hell, I so totally didn’t deserve this! I wouldn’t even wish this on my worst enemy.

Binilisan ko ang pagligo ko. Okay, I admit. I was scared of his threat. That asshole is capable of anything! I quickly put on my clothes and brushed my hair a little. Pagbaba ko nakita ko si dad at si Axel na nag-uusap.

Dad looked at his wrist watch ng makita niya ako. “ Wow, less than 30 minutes. I’m amazed.“  Sabi niya bago binalik ang tingin kay Axel.  “How did you do that?”

I sent a disbelieving look to the both of them. I so couldn’t believe this! Even my own dad! Ugh! 

“Alam mo, Jaime, hindi pwede ang pakiusap d’yan kay Valerie. Dapat diyan pinipilit at kung kinakailangan tinutulak.”  He said with a smug smile.

“I think your exactly what Valerie needs.”  Dad said.

Oh hell no! I didn’t need him. Not at all. After a few more days, babalik na siya sa kung saang impyerno man siya nanggaling. Magpaparty ako dito sa hacienda kapag nangyari yun.

“The only thing I need is for him to stay out of my life.”  I couldn’t help but say.

“Valerie!”  Saway ni dad.

“Somebody woke up on the wrong side of the bed.”  Nang-aasar na sabi ni Axel. I stuck my tongue out at him and he just chuckled and shook his head.  “Anyway, Jaime, sinabi sa akin ni Tristan na naghanap daw si Valerie ng trabaho sa Maynila.”

What is this jerk up to now?

“Yes, but I don’t want her to work at her brother’s company. Pasasakitin niya lang ang ulo ni Tristan.” 

“She can work at our company. Bukas ang kumpanya namin para sa’yo. Wouldn’t that be fun, Valerie. You and I, working together?” 

No, totally not! That would be like suicide for me. Mas gugustuhin ko pa magsaka dito sa hacienda kaysa makasama ka! Wala pa nga siyang tatlong araw dito, ginawa niya nang impyerno ang buhay ko. Paano pa kaya kung maging boss ko siya. I imagine it would be like working for Hitler.  “I’d rather stay here.”

“You know, that’s a good idea.”  Sabi ni dad bago tumingin sa akin.  “Hindi ba matagal mo nang gusto magsolo at tumira sa Maynila? I’ve been telling you this, if you want to live on your own hindi ka na rin dapat umasa sa akin.”

“I changed my mind. Mas gusto ko dito.”  I said.

Nagkibit-balikat si Axel.  “It’s your call. Basta kapag lumapit ka sa kumpanya namin, I’d instantly hire you.”

Not. Going. To. Happen.

He grabbed me by the arm in front of my own father. The nerve of this man!  “Let’s go? Aalis na kami, Jaime.”

“Go ahead. Marami pa akong ginagawa kaya hindi ako makakasama sa inyo.”  Sabi ni dad.

Walang ingat na kinaladkad niya ako palabas. I shook his hands from me.  “Stop it! Stop man handling me!”  I squinted my eyes at him.  “Kaya kong maglakad ng hindi mo ako kinakaladkad.”

“Then walk.”  He said and so I did. We stopped in front of my dad’s pickup truck. Binigay sa kanya ni dad ang susi at siya ang magdadrive. I just couldn’t believe my dad. Ipinagkakatiwala niya ako sa lalaking ito! Doesn’t he know that this guy forced me to striptease in front of him, and that this guy had felt me up and this guy ‘hated me so much he wanted to fuck the shit out of me’? Doesn’t he know that this man had corrupted his beautiful, innocent, kind-hearted daughter? I climbed in the passenger’s seat and let out a huff of annoyance. When will my misery end?

He started the car. Hindi pa kami nakakalayo when I saw David’s car on the rear view mirror.

“Oh my god! Stop the car!”  I squealed.

“Bakit?”  He asked.

“Si David!’ I said.

He looked at the rear view mirror with furrowed brows. He didn’t stop the car. He just kept going. I hit him on the arm.  “Bakit hindi mo hininto! I so hate you! “

He scowled at me. “Don’t you ever fucking shut up? Magkikita pa naman kayo. Susunod naman yun.”

“Ugh! Don’t ever talk to me!”  I angrily crossed my arms over my chest and slumped in defeat. I was officially peeved.

He turned the radio on and it was like the universe had played a joke on me, the music I danced to when he made me strip in front of him played.

One mile to every inch

Of your skin like porcelain

One pair of candy lips and

Your bubblegum tongue

I opened the window, stuck my head out and let out a long, angry scream.  “Arrgghhhhh!!!”

Sumandal ako sa upuan ko pagkatapos.

He looked at me and grinned. “I love this song.” 

And if you want love

We’ll make it

Swim in a deep sea

of blankets

Take all your big plans

and break em

This is bound to be awhile

Your body’s a wonderland…

“Magandang araw, senyorita.”  Bati agad sa akin ng mga tao pagbaba ko ng truck. The fiesta spirit was everywhere with decorations on the street and colorful, noisy music. May mga kanya-kanya din handa ang mga tao sa bahay nila.

“Morning.”  I lazily said. Hindi naman kasi good ang morning ko ngayon!

When he got out of the car, every woman looked at Axel like he was some kind of god. And boy, was he loving all the attention. He smiled and waved at them like a celebrity and the girls silently squealed.

“Ang gwapo niya.”  Mahinang sabi ng babaeng nakatingin kay Axel, but it was loud enough for me to hear it. Mga babaeng ’to! Akala mo ngayon lang nakakita ng lalaki.

“Ang laki pa ng katawan.”  Narinig kong bulong ng isang babae.

I rolled my eyes and couldn’t help but butt in.  “Malaki lang ang katawan niyan. Akala mo malaki ang lahat sa kanya pero…”  I trailed off and looked at his crotch. I yelped when I felt a stinging pain on my ass. 

He pinched my butt! The asshole just pinched my butt!!!

Nagkatinginan lang ang dalawang babaeng nag-uusap at nahihiyang umalis. 

“Why’d you do that?”  I snapped at him. 

“That’s what you get for being a bad girl.”  His lips twitched.

“Aww… did I hurt your ego? I’m sowwy…”  I said in a baby voice as I bat my lashes.

---

Hi, sorry sa once a month na update dito. Tinapos ko lang ang TSGFL pero I’ll try my best na makapag-update ng madalas dito. :)

Chapter Eight

Axel’s POV

“I’m sowwy.”  She said in a mocking childish voice.  “It’s not my fault your wiener is small.”

Damn this brat! No woman I’ve had sex with had ever told me that my dick is small.  

My lips lifted in a sneer and I placed my lips at the shell of her ear.  “You’ll be really sorry when I shove my ‘little limp’ dick down your fucking throat”

She inhaled sharply and stepped back. Her eyes widened slightly as she looked at me and her face was turning red. And that’s what you do when you want to shut that damn brat up. You say something nasty and she’d fluster like a virgin. But Valerie was far from being one. It’s really funny how words like that shocked her. She wasn’t a conservative person. Sa itsura pa nga lang niya halata na… she was always clad in a body hugging, cleavage showing, leg revealing things I don’t even classify as clothing. 

“I’ve already told you this before, you little brat, and I will tell this to you again. You do not want to see my bad side.”

  

Her expression changed. She crossed her arms and cocked a brow  “You mean this is your good side?!”  She hissed at me.

“Oh, princess…”  One corner of my lips lifted in a half smile. Putting my hands on her hip, I pulled her body against mine. Bumaba ang ulo ko sa kanya hanggang halos magkalapit na ang mukha namin. So close I could already feel her warm, sweet breath. Her eyes fluttered.  “You really need to learn how to keep your mouth shut or…”  I looked at her lips.  “do you want me to teach you how?”

She tried to push me away but I only pulled her closer.  “Ano ba?”  She muttered. Annoying her was very amusing, seeing as it only took a little to rile her up.  “Get your hand off me!”  She pulled away harder and tripped over a jagged stone behind her, stumbling to her knees and next thing I knew her face came slamming right on the fucking baby maker. BULLSEYE!

I grunted a cuss under my breath as I felt the pain.  “Son of a-”

Dahan-dahan nag-angat ang mukha niya sa akin. Her eyes widened in shock when she met my gaze and gasped. Agad siyang tumayo, rubbing her crimson red cheek. I, on the other hand, was still in great pain. Instictively, I brought my hands to my crotch, somehow still aware of the fact that  I probably would never be able to father a child. 

“Valeeeeerrieeee!”  I screamed in agony as I dropped.

“Buti nga sa’yo.”  She said as she glanced at me with a satisfied look on her face. Fuckin evil little brat!

“Ano hong nangyari sa’yo?”  Tanong ng isa sa dalawang babaeng lumapit sa akin.

“Karma.”  Valerie kindly answered for me.  Humanda ang brat na yan sa akin.

The girls helped me get on my feet because I still couldn’t move. Inalalayan nila ako at inupo sa isang mahabang bangkong kawayan sa di kalayuan. Valerie just watched us with arms crossed, probably enjoying my agony.

“Okay lang ho ba kayo?”  One of the girls asked.

I looked at girls. They were probably the same age as Valerie.

“Yeah, I’m okay.”  I said, discreetly trying not to look like I was holding my crotch in pain.  “Thanks…?”

“Lenlen po.”  Sagot ng isang babae.

“And you?”  I looked at the other woman.

“Heidi.”  Nakangiting sabi niya.

“Ako ng bahala sa kanya.”  Valerie said in a cold tone. Nakataas ang kilay niya.  “You can go now.”  She said, dismissing them like a queen.

Tumango lang ang dalawang babae at mabilis na umalis.

“You can’t flirt with the women here. Ang mga babae dito hindi katulad ng mga babae mo sa Manila na pwede mong paglaruan.”  Sabi niya.

“I wasn’t flirting.”  Sabi ko. Thank God, the pain was already subsiding to a dull ache.  “I was just thanking them for helping me out after you slammed your fucking face on my dick.”

“It’s your fault! And you totally deserve it. Someday, isa sa mga babaeng pinaglaruan mo ang puputol d’yan!”   

“Alam ko na kung bakit ang laki ng galit mo sa akin.”

She cocked her brow in question.

“You still can’t get over the fact that I didn’t flirt back with you.”  I grinned. 

“Ano’ng pinagsasabi mo?”  She rolled her eyes.

“You flirted with me at Tristan’s party, after he got out of the hospital.”  Sabi ko.  “You were all over me. Sorry, you’re just not my type, Valerie! I have standards.”

She really did flirt with me at the party. She was the biggest flirt because she knew everyone wanted her. Valerie always wants to be the center of attention, she wanted everybody to notice her and she wanted men drooling at her feet. Even Phoenix, Wayne and Seth were drawn to her. She had that kind of charm that attracted people like moths to flame. She tried to win my attention but I didn’t give her any and I think that was what made her angry. That very same night, I slept with her friend, Amy. I ignored her not because I didn’t want her. Who would not want to fuck a chick with a beautiful face and a banging body? But we all had this unspoken rule:  Thou shalt not fuck your friend’s mother, sister, or girlfriend.

It would be useless flirting with her if I couldn’t fuck her. Why would I fuckin want to tease myself with something I couldn’t have? So I never bothered with Valerie.

“Ang kapal ng mukha mo. Hindi din kita type, no!”  She brought her hands to her hips, her face turning back to crimson red.  “I was so not flirting with you. I was just trying to be friendly.” 

“Right.”  I snickered. Bumaba ang tingin ko sa kanya. My brows furrowed when I saw her bloody, scraped knees. Hinatak ko ang kamay niya papunta sa akin dahilan para mapaupo siya sa kandungan ko.

“What are you doing?”  She asked trying to squirm free.

“You skinned your knee.”  I said, touching it.

“Ow!”  She hit my arm.

  “Valerie.”  Pareho kaming nag-angat ng tingin ng marinig ang boses ni David. Val quickly got up from my lap at paika-ikang lumapit kay David. I rolled my eyes. What a fucking drama queen. Kanina lang wala siyang problemang paglakad.

“David, look I scraped my knee!”   She pouted like the fake little brat she was. 

Valerie’s POV

I watched as David cleaned my scraped knee with alcohol. My prince charming…

Insert dreamy sigh here.

“Better?”  Nag-angat siya ng tingin sa akin pagkatapos niyang lagyan ng band-aid ang sugat ko.

“So much better.”  I smiled. Bigla kong naalala si Axel? Where is that douche? I looked around, my eyes stopped on Axel. He was with a group of girls. Napataas ang kilay ko. Ano ba yang mga babaeng yan? Akala mo ngayon lang nakakita ng lalaki.

He was like a magnet attracting every girl. Why does he never treat me like he treats other girls. From the day we first met he had always treated me like I was a burden in his life and he always made me feel like he doesn’t like me. Was I really that unattractive to him? Bakit hindi niya alam, alot of guys would kill for my attention. 

You’re not my type. I have standards.

Hindi mawala sa isip ko ang sinabi niya kanina. Okay, I really did flirt with him at Tristan’s party. That was like three years ago. I was so young pa. I really did like him but he ignored me. And what’s worse was that he slept with Amy, and then with Venus and finally with Trina. I didn’t really want to sleep with him but it did mad me feel like I was the ugliest girl ever. He ignored my flirting and he slept with all my friends? It didn’t make sense to me. Naisip ko, ganun ba talaga ako ka-unattractive para sa kanya?

Axel seemed to be enjoying himself with the company of his giggling ‘fangirls’. Napatingin siya sa akin, he gave me a harsh glare  as if I did something wrong but quickly looked away. 

He must be having alot of fun with his group of girls right now. I sighed, feeling antsy. Why do I even need to worry about that? I should enjoy this time alone with Dave. This was the first time I had David all to myself.

“Valerie?

“ 

I shook my head and turned to look at David. 

“Hmm?” 

David grinned.  “Malalim yata ang iniisip mo.”

“Hindi naman.”  I let out another sigh.

“Am I boring you?”  He chuckled.

“No!”  I quickly answered.  “Napagod lang siguro ako sa fiesta.”

He nodded his head.  “Si Axel, what is he to you?”

I looked at him with a stunned expression for a few seconds. Why was David asking me about that douche?  “Well, um, he’s my brother’s friend.”  I finally answered. 

 “There’s nothing going on between you two?” 

“What?! NO!”  I said exaggeratedly. Nagbaba ako ng tingin. 

“So, you’re still single?”

“And ready to mingle.”  I joked.

Tumawa naman siya. We fell in to silence when his laughter died.  “We never broke up. That means I’m still your boyfriend.”  Nakangiting sabi niya. I didn’t know if he was joking or not.

We never really did officially broke up that was the reason why I was holding on to him. He left for England and promised me he’d come back for me.

“I’m sorry we kind of drifted apart when I went to England.”  He said.  “Life was hard there.”

“I understand. After all, it was just a silly puppy love.”  Sabi ko.

  “Paano kung ligawan ulit kita?”  He asked.

My eyes widened. Oh my god! Was he serious? I looked at him straight in the eye.  “I waited for you, Dave…”

“Really?”  There was an amusement in his voice.

I smiled and nodded my head.

“You think maybe we could give it another shot?” 

“We’ll see.”  I said with a knowing smile. Syempre, dapat magpa-hard to get muna ako. I couldn’t just give in to him. I didn’t want him to think that I was easy.

He lifted his fingers to my chin, lifting my face to meet his eyes. Inilapit niya ang mukha niya sa akin until our face was almost touching.  “Yeah, we will.”

A loud cough drew our attention. Agad kaming napatingin kay Axel na nakatayo hindi kalayuan. 

Well, well, well. If it isn’t the chick magnet.

“You two are having so much fun, huh?”  He said with a slight sarcastic tone.

I raised my chin up and cocked a brow.  “You bet! But I think you’re having more fun with your group of fangirls.”

I could see him clenching his jaw before he spoke again.  “It’s time to eat. Mamaya niyo na ipagpatuloy kung anuman yang ginagawa niyo.”  He said with a stoic voice bago tumalikod. Sumunod na kami ni David. 

“Is he always that grumpy?” Tanong ni David habang naglalakad kami pabalik sa kasiyahan.

I rolled my eyes.  “Yes, he’s like a teenage girl on period… whole year round.”

David and I both laughed. We headed back to the fiesta and there food tables set up. Everyone was having alot of fun. May mga palaro, may mga nagsasayawan at nagkakantahan. I grabbed a plate and got something to eat, David went and got food too. Medyo malayo sa akin si David ng tumabi sa akin si Axel. Kumukuha din siya ng pagkain sa tabi ko.

“Why can’t you act like the girls here? Dito ka rin naman lumaki, bakit iba ang ugali mo sa mga babae dito?”  He said with a smirk. 

Tumaas ang kilay ko at humarap sa kanya.  “Anong gusto mong sabihin?”

“Ang mga babae dito mahinhin, mababait, and they know when to keep their mouth and legs shut. Mga tunay na dalagang Pilipina.”  Sabi niya.  “And you… you throw yourself to any man like a cheap slag who needs a good fuck.” 

I clenched my fists in anger.  “You asshole!”  I took a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves.  “You don’t have the right to say that! Wala kang alam tungkol sa akin! Magpakasaya ka kasama yung mga dalagang bukid mo!”

I marched back to my seat, totally pissed off. I crossed my arms to my chest and pursed my lips. I just lost my appetite. Tumabi si David sa upuan sa tabi ko.

“Why the long face?”  Tanong ni David.

I shrugged my shoulder.  “Nothing.”

I looked at the table across from where we were seating. Axel was seating there with his group of dalagang bukids! He looked at me and smiled before raising a glass of juice at me as if to annoy me. I frowned even more.

I hope you choke to death, asshole! 

Nang magdilim na, nag-aya na akong umuwi. I wasn’t having fun anymore. Axel was drinking lambanog with the men. He seemed to be getting along with everyone. If they only knew how much of a devil he was. Kung alam lang nila na siya yung tipo ng lalaki na hindi dapat nila pinapalapit sa mga anak nilang babae. He was a predetor, ready to strike and the women were his prey.

“Hoy, gusto ko ng umuwi. Hatid mo na ako.”  Sabi ko ng lumapit ako sa kanya. I crossed my arms.

“Ba’t hindi ka magpahatid sa David mo? Tutal kayo naman magkasama buong araw.”  He grimaced.

“Fine! Have fun, asshole.”  I said. Leaving him here just doesn’t sit well with me pero kung ayaw niya pang umuwi edi huwag. Bahala siya sa buhay niya!

Nagpahatid ako kay David pauwi. His car stopped in front of our house.

“Hey, kanina ka pa nakasimangot.”  Pansin ni David.  “Are you okay?” 

“Yeah.”  Sagot ko.  “Napagod lang ako.” 

He nodded his head. 

“Well, good night.”  Sabi niya.

“Good night.”  I said.

He took my hand and brought it to his lips.  “Have a sweet dream.”

His gesture lifted my mood up. Nakangiti akong bumaba sa kotse at pumasok sa bahay. Dad was already home, naabutan ko siya sa living room.

“Hi, dad.”  I hugged daddy.

“Hey.”  He kisssed me on the forehead. “Where’s Axel?”

“Nagpaiwan sa barrio.”  Sabi ko.  “He’s drinking lambanog with the guys. Nagpahatid na lang ako kay David.”

Dad chuckled.  “He seems to be having alot of fun. Buti naman at madali niyang nakasundo ang mga tao doon.”

After chatting with Dad for a few minutes, nagpaalam na ako at umakyat sa kwarto. But I kept checking out the window for any sign of Axel. One hour had passed and he still hasn’t come home. Two hours… 

I saw my dad’s car stopped in front of the house. Pero hindi si Axel ang nagda-drive, it was one of the guy he was drinking with. Inilabas niya si Axel na nasa passenger’s seat. He was limp, probably passed out drunk. Lumabas ako sa kwarto at narinig kong nag-uusap si dad at ang lalaki.

“Nakadami po ng inom, senyor Jaime.”  Natatawang sabi ng lalaki.

“Mukha nga.”  Natawa din si dad.  “Hindi kasi sanay sa lambanog, alam mo na, Manileño.”

Inalalayan nila paakyat si Axel sa kwarto niya. I was secretly watching the whole time and an idea popped into my mind. He was passed out drunk. Wala siyang malay. Pwede kong makuha ang phone sa kanya. He wouldn’t have anything to hold against me anymore. I would be FREE!

Chapter Nine

I waited for everyone to sleep bago ko isinagawa ang pinaplano ko. Dad was already in his room. I stood in front of Axel’s door, slowly I turned the knob and thank God it wasn’t locked. Madilim ang kwarto but luckily may konting ilaw na nangagaling sa liwanag ng buwan mula sa bintana. I felt like a ninja, quietly sneaking to his room. Dahan-dahan akong lumapit sa kama niya, careful not to make any sound. He was lying on his stomach, unconcious. I never knew how charming he could be when he sleeps. I blushed as I wondered how his lips would taste like.

Snap out of it, Valerie!  Hindi ako nagpunta dito para panoorin siyang matulog. I looked around the dark room and thought. If I were Axel where would I put my phone? Bumalik ang tingin ko sa kanya at bumaba ang mga mata ko sa pants niya. He had a really nice ass for a guy. 

Stop it, perverted mind. 

Okay, kailangan ko na mag-focus. I needed to find his phone. My heart races as I lightly touched his back pockets for the phone pero wala akong nakapa. Well, except his butt. I moved on to his side pocket and finally felt something hard and square. I was 99.9 percent sure it was his phone. Now, kailangan ko na lang ilabas iyon sa pocket niya without waking him up. I prayed to all Gods that he was drunk enough not to wake up.

  

My hand carefully went inside his pocket and I almost forgot how to breathe when he moved a little. 

Please, don’t wake up. Please, don’t wake up. Please. Please.

Thank God, hindi siya nagising. I tried to steady my nerves by taking deep breaths. Okay, here it goes. Dahan-dahan kong pinasok ang kamay ko hanggang sa makapa ko na ang phone niya. I slowly took it out of his pocket. Malapit ko na mailabas ang phone niya he suddenly stirred He probably felt it. It’s now or never! I quickly pulled it out of his pocket before I get caught. Axel shot his head up.

I quickly dropped to the floor and crawled under the little space beneath his bed. Mula sa ilalim ng kama naramdaman kong gumalaw siya at binuksan niya ang lampshade sa bedside table. My heart dropped into my gut. This was like a scene straight out of a suspense flick. And anytime now, hahablutin niya ang mga paa ko at hahatakin ako.

I let out a scream when I felt something gripped my ankles, dragging me from under the bed. Noooo! I tried to kick him and held on to the matress but it was absolutely useless. And I think I broke a nail pa! He was stronger than me.

“Let me go!”  Sigaw ko habang nagpapadyak. Binitawan niya na ako ng mailabas niya ako sa ilalim ng kama.

I looked up and saw Axel’s crumpled face looking back at me. Tinago ko sa likod ko ang isang kamay ko na hawak ang phoen niya. “You brat, what the fuck do you think you’re doing?” 

“I- um, nagkamali ako ng kwartong pinasukan. My bad.”  I nervously laughed.

He stared at me, unconvinced.  “You’ve been living here your whole life. Huwag mo akong gawing tanga. Ano’ng ginagawa mo dito?”

“I was just… just checking on you. Baka kasi, alam mo na, ano…”  I bit my bottom lip, trying to find words to say but I couldn’t think of anything.

His lips lifted in a wicked smile.  “Is the little brat horny?”

I took a sharp breath, shocked to the core. His eyes scanned through my body. I was only wearing a tiny pink chemise, I could feel my nipples hardening under his gaze. I knew he could already see it because I wasn’t wearing any bra.  Now, I am.

“I think I better go back to my room now”  I said as I stood up.

His hand wrapped around my wrist before I could move. Axel pulled my body against him. Gumapang ang isang kamay niya sa pisngi ko. His hand gently carressed my cheek and I wanted to purr like a hungry kitten.  “If you can’t handle the heat, you should’ve stayed out of the fire.”

His finger trailed down to my neck and went further down between my breasts. I could feel goosebumps run all over my body. He slid his hand under my breast and lifted it a little.  “Your nipples are hard, princess. Their begging me to play with them.”

I should be slapping his hand off me right now but I couldn’t. I wanted him to touch me and more. I let out a sigh when he gently squeezed my breast. My hand loosened around the phone I was holding and it fell on the floor making a thud sound. 

Crap! I’m so busted.

Nagbaba ng tingin si Axel sa sahig kung saan nahulog ang phone. A frown creased his brow. Agad akong yumuko para kunin ang phone at tumakbo. I ran as fast as I could to the door but before I could touch the knob…

Riiiiiiiiip!

He grabbed me by the back of my dress and it ripped in half when I tried to tore free.  Shit!  There was a short silent pause between us. I took advantage of his shock.  Hinawakan ko ang door knob pero bago ko mapihit iyon, his hand slammed against the door to keep me from opening it.

“Hand my phone back to me.”  He said in a dark, firm tone through gritted teeth.

“No!”  I refused, holding it tight with both hands against my chest. 

“We could do this the easy way or the hard way.”  His eyes were piercing through me.  “But either way I’m going to get that phone back.”

I took a couple of steps back. No! Hindi ko ibibigay sa kanya ang phone na ito. I was holding my freedom from him in my hands and there’s no way I was going to let go of it. Dahan-dahan siyang lumapit sa akin.

“Akin na.”  He said. I shook my head as I took steps further back and he walked forward towards me.  “Don’t be fuckin’ stubborn.”

I continued to walk backward, so not ready to surrender, until the back of my legs bumped into something hard and I fell on the soft matress. Why?! Oh, why?!

A smile of triumph formed on his lips. I drew my legs up to kick him in the jingle bells but he was quick to grab it.

“Oh no, you won’t.”  He said and then he leaned down to take the phone.Itinaas ko ang kamay ko sa ulo ko para hindi niya maabot. He fell on top of me, trying to reach the phone.

I turned over to my stomach and tried to crawl from under him. 

“You little brat!”  He pushed me down the bed. Mabilis niyang nakuha ang phone mula sa kamay ko

“Nooooooo!!!”  I screamed, my hand fisting on the bed sheet.

“Bakit ba ang tigas-tigas ng ulo mo,  Valerie?”   Axel’s voice tickled my ear.  “Why can’t you just make things easier for the both of us, huh?”

“Because I hate you! I can’t stand being around you any longer! Hayaan mo na ako! Stop blackmailing me!”  I said, almost sobbing.

“I’m sorry, brat. You messed with the wrong guy.”  I could feel the ominious smile on his face as he said those words.  “You’re going to be a good girl for me tonight…”

I shivered in anticipation at what he just said. He flipped me back to my back and I was looking at his dark eyes.

“Now, where were we?”  His eyes lowered to my bare breasts. My heart was beating so loud I could almost hear it. His palm carressed the side of my breast carefully with his strong fingers, leaving me trembling and wanting more.

“W-what are you doing?”  I managed to gasp.

“I’m going to teach you a lesson for being such a bad girl.” 

“P-pakawalan mo ako. Sisigaw ako!”  I threatened him. I didn’t know if my heart was racing but there was a twinge of excitement growing between my legs.

“Oh, you’ll be screaming alright.”  There’s that smile again. And when he smile that smile, you know he was going to get his way. He circled his finger around my hard little tip and I could feel my entire body heating in response. After awhile, he ran his fingertip over and started stroking it, making it grow harder. I took a sharp breath and when I exhaled I felt every ounce of energy I had left leaving my body.

I had never felt something like this before and I had never had a man touch me like he was touching me. Kahit ayaw ng isip ko, iba ang sinasabi ng katawan ko. I wanted to fight him but I also didn’t want to.

“You want this, huh?”  He asked, teasingly. I turned my head away, avoiding eye contact.

Bumaba ang ulo niya sa dibdib ko. He took my breast in his mouth and sucked on it as he flick his tongue on my nipple. His other hand was busy playing with my other breast. I knew in my mind that this wasn’t supposed to happen, I shouldn’t let him but I just couldn’t make him stop. 

I stiffened when I felt his hand slid down my stomach to my panties. This was so wrong on so many levels. Hindi ba kay David ko lang ibibigay ang sarili ko? I saved myself for him but why was I letting this guy touch me? 

He stroked me through my thin underwear. He stopped sucking my breast and leveled his head to mine.

“The little brat is wet, even through her panties.”  He teasingly said with a mix of amusement.  “Do you like what I’m doing to you?”

 

I could only nod my head.

“Then tell me you like it.”  He demanded.

I had to swallow past my dry throat before I could say,  “I like it.”

“I thought so.”  He took my hand and brought it on his pants.  “Feel that, Val. Do you feel what you do to me?”

Axel unzipped his pants and wrapped my hand around his shaft. I was too aroused to even be nervous or embarrased. God, I was touching his… his thing! 

“Tell me how my dick feels.”

“Hard.”  I squeaked.

“What else?”

“Big… thick…” 

“Yeah.”  He smiled in satisfaction.  “And it’s all because of you.”

His head lowered to my body again, he placed small kisses on my belly and down to my panties. I layed still, just letting him enjoy me. I closed my eyes, feeling every new sensation run through my body. Hindi na ako makapag-isip ng maayos. All I knew was that I wanted what was happening right now. I was just living in the moment and enjoying the pleasure.

He pulled my panties down and I felt his lips touch me.  “Valerie, open your eyes.”  Narinig kong sabi niya. Sinunod ko ang sinabi niya, binuksan ko ang mga mata ko. There he was, between my legs.  “I want you to watch me as I fuck you with my tongue.”

Axel opened my legs wide and lifted it up so my knees were pressed to my chest. Oh my god! I looked like a frog in this position.

I completely forgot about me looking like a frog when his mouth covered my slit. His tongue dug between and he moved it up and down. My god, I never knew a tongue could feel this good. He opened my folds and felt him going inside me. In and out, faster and faster. My sex was swollen and wanting, my hips were thrusting upward meeting his tongue’s thrust. I could feel him going deeper and deeper. I felt like I was on the edge. I didn’t know what I was after but I knew I wanted it NOW!

“Axeeeeel!”  I moaned. Something inside me exploded and it was now leaking between my thighs. My body spasmed uncontrollably until he placed one final kiss on my womanhood. He lifted his head up to my face.

He pressed his lips against mine and I could taste myself. I turned my head away from him.  “No, you just kissed my… my vajayjay.”

I felt him chuckle against my cheek.  “You have to taste how sexy you are, Valerie.”  He held my jaw and made me face him. Bago pa ako nakagalaw ibinaba niya na ang mga labi niya sa akin. His tongue made its way inside my mouth. As my lust died, my face grew hot in embarrassment at the realization of what we had just done. 

I felt dirty. Nag-init ang magkabilang sulok ng mga mata ko hanggang sa maramdaman ko na lang ang pagtulo ng mga luha ko. How could I be so stupid to let him do this to me? Bakit hinayaan ko ang sarili kong mapabilang sa mga babae niya. I felt so low, so cheap, so disgusting.

I pushed him away from me but he wouldn’t budge.

“St-mp!”   Inilayo ko ang mga labi ko sa kanya.

“Val…”  Kunot ang noong tinitigan niya ako. 

“Get off me!”  Humihikbing sabi ko.

“Why the fuck are you crying?!”  Tanong ko.

“Just get off me!”  I shouted, hitting him in the chest.

He got off me and sat at the edge of the bed. I wrapped the blanket around my body and got up. Hindi ko mapigil ang pagtulo ng luha ko kahit ayokong umiyak sa harap niya. 

“Don’t make it seem like na pinilit kita. You wanted this too!”  He growled. Hindi ko siya pinansin. I headed to the door, nagmamadali akong lumabas ng kwarto niya.

Chapter Ten

Axel’s POV

I had a hard time sleeping last night. Hindi ako makatulog dahil sa nangyari sa amin ni Valerie. It was partly because of the hard on but mostly I just felt guilty. Hindi ko naman siya pinilit. She wanted it too. I knew she did. She said it and I knew from the way her body responded to my touch. I even made her come. But why did she storm off, crying like a little girl? I wanted to run after her last night but decided not to. I knew she needed space. 

I wanted to beat myself up. I completely forgot about everything last night when I saw her in her tiny pink chemise. She was just so fucking sexy, my body was burning and I needed release. It didn’t help that I was still kind of drunk. I forgot that she was Tristan’s sister and I forgot about the  rule . Now I just couldn’t forget how she tasted, how she felt and just how beautiful my name sounded when she moaned it. 

It’s her fault.

She crossed the boundary. I have been vocal about me wanting to fuck her. She should’ve stayed away from me.   I tried to justify my actions by telling myself all those to make myself feel better but it didn’t work. I guiltily sighed. Hindi ko pa rin dapat ginawa iyon. Matalik na kaibigan ko si Tristan and Jaime had been nothing but good to me. I tried to shake it off my mind and got out from bed. I took a quick shower before I went downstairs. 

Si Jaime agad ang nakasalubong ko pagbaba ko.

“Hijo, paakyatan na sana kita ng pagkain dahil magtatanghali na at tulog ka pa rin.”  Sabi ni Jaime.

Pilit akong ngumiti at nagbaba ng tingin. I couldn’t even fucking look him in the eye, afraid he might see the guilt in them.  “Sorry, I kind of overslept.”

“No, it’s fine. I’m actually glad you’re enjoying your stay here.”  Nakangiting sabi niya.  “What happened last night?”

I tensed at his question. Hindi ko magawang makapagsalita at naramdaman ko ang namumuong pawis sa noo ko. What was I supposed to say?  I ate your daughter out last night.

“Lasing na lasing kagabi nung hinatid ka dito. Hindi mo kaya ang alak dito.”  Natatawang sabi ni Jaime. 

I tried to laugh too but it came out as a choke.  “I’m sorry, Jaime.”   Sorry for what I did to Valerie.

“It’s fine. Nandito ka para magbakasyon. Just enjoy yourself.”  He smiled.

“Anyway, where’s Val?”  I asked as I scratched my nape.

“Ilang beses ko na pinuntahan sa kwarto niya, nakatalukbong lang ng kumot at ayaw bumangon sa kama.”  Kibit-balikat na sagot niya. “Masama daw ang pakiramdam niya.”  

Wala na akong maisip na sasabihin kaya tumango na lang ako. 

“May pinahanda na akong almusal para sa’yo. Kumain ka na at kung may kailangan ka nandoon lang ako sa library.”  Sabi ni Jaime. 

I just gave him another nod. It’s like I was holding my breath while I was talking to him. I was afraid of what would come out of my mouth once I say something and I just felt tensed. Maybe a nice breakfast was all I needed to get my mind off it so I headed to the dining room. Katulad ng sinabi ni Jaime may nakahanda ng pagkain doon. I ate alone and it was so fucking quiet, all I could hear was myself chewing. Nakakapanibago.

I kind of missed Valerie’s banshee voice screaming in a high pitched fury. Parang hindi kumpleto ang simula ng araw ko hangga’t hindi ko naririnig ang nakakarinig boses ng babaeng yun. Bigla akong nawalan ng gana. I didn’t know if I just wasn’t in the mood to eat or because everything tasted bland. Even the fucking bacon tasted bland.

Once you’ve tasted something good as Valerie’s pussy, everything else tastes bland.

Goddammit! I shouldn’t be fucking thinking of that! Tinuon ko ang pansin ko sa pagkain at pinilit ang sarili ko na kumain. A maid walked from the kitchen holding a tray of food in her hands. Was she going to bring that to Valerie?

“Manang.”  Tawag ko sa babae.

Huminto siya at humarap sa akin.  “Ano po iyon, sir?”

“Saan mo dadalhin yan?”  Tanong ko.

“Kay senyorita po. Pinadadala ni senyor Jaime.”  Sagot nito.

My face suddenly lit up. I got up from my chair and walked towards her. Kinuha ko sa kanya ang tray.  “Ako na ang magdadala niyan sa kanya.”

 

“Sigurdo po kayo?”  Tanong nito.

“Sure. Go do whatever you need to do. Ako na ang bahala dito.” 

Tumango lang siya bago umalis. Nagsimula na akong maglakad papunta sa kwarto ni Valerie dala ang tray. I couldn’t believe I was bringing food to that woman. Well, she wouldn’t be called ‘princess’ for nothing. Ito ang unang beses na pagsisilbihan ko ang isang babae bukod sa ina ko. 

I opened the door to her room and went inside. 

“Daddy, I already told you I’m alright… Gusto ko lang magpahinga.”  She said in a small, throaty voice while she was buried under her duvet. Ibinaba ko sa bedside table ang tray at umupo sa gilid ng kama.

“Val, let’s talk.”  Sabi ko.

 She peeked out of her duvet and her red, puffy eyes widened.  “You!”  Nagtaas ang boses niya.  “You son of a bitch! Ano’ng ginagawa mo dito?!” 

“I’m…”  I couldn’t believe I was going  to say this to this little brat! I took a deep breath. “I’m sorry, okay?”  

Ibinaba niya ang cover at naniningkit ang mga mata sa galit na tumingin sa akin.  

“You’re sorry? Will your sorry undo what you did to me?”

I rolled my eyes.  “You fucking enjoyed it. I got you off and you came in my fucking mouth. I don’t even know why I’m apologizing.”

“Walanghiya ka, b

astos ka talaga.“  She pushed me from the bed.   “Get out of here! Get ouuuut!”

Tears started spilling from her eyes again. Damn it!

“Umalis ka na dito!”  She threw a pillow at me. And another one. And another one. Nang maubusan na siya ng unan na ibabato sa akin inabot niya ang kung anumang bagay ang maabot niya. She reached to her bedside table and her hand caught a book. The brat fucking threw it at me but luckily missed.

“Come on, Val. Calm the fuck down!”  I shouted.

“Fuck you!”  She said throwing a box of kleenex. It him in the chest. Nang wala na siyang maibato sa akin, she grabbed the lampshade.

“Huwag yan, masakit yan!” I quickly jumped on her before she could throw it at me. I pinned her down the bed.

“Geez, calm down, woman!”  Sigaw ko sa kanya. 

“Get off me!”  She tried to wiggle her way out under me. 

I couldn’t stop myself from wiping away her tears. Now, I feel really guilty. 

“Not until you calm down.”  I softly said.

She took a few deep breath.  “Okay, I’m calm. Get off me…”

And so I did. Dahan-dahan akong umalis sa ibabaw niya.

“Ano bang ginagawa mo dito?”  She said, sitting up and throwing me a dagger look.

“Gusto kong pag-usapan natin ang nangyari kagabi.”  I said.

Nagbaba siya ng tingin at namula ang magkabilang pisngi niya.  “I… I don’t want to talk about it anymore so please, will you just get out of my room?”

“Have you been crying all night?”  I cupped her chin and lifted her face. Her eyes were puffy and swollen. She turned her head away from me.

I sighed.  “I’m sorry, Valerie.”  This time it wasn’t a half-assed sorry. 

“If you’re really sorry…”  She said in a small voice.  “You would delete the video from your phone and leave the hacienda.”

Hah! I knew it! The brat was just acting to get what she wants. 

“Nice try, Val, but I’m not that sorry.”  I snickered, shaking my head.

“Jerk!”  She scowled.

“Brat!”  I retorted.

Alam ko na ngayon kung bakit umarte ang brat na ito when most women would be begging for more. Valerie would do anything to get her way. She was the biggest drama queen and I was stupid to fall for it.

“Sasabihin ko kay daddy ang ginawa mo sa akin.”  She threatened.

“Go ahead, tell your daddy I fucked you with my tongue. I’ll tell him how much you liked it, how you moaned my name and how you orgasmed in my mouth.”  I said with a smirk.  “Maybe I’ll even tell him how you taste-”

Her palm landed on my cheek, giving me the best slap she’d probably been dreaming of. My eyes narrowed in a slit. No woman had ever hit me in the face. No one. Ever. Not even my own mother.

“You little brat!”  I said through gritted teeth.

Agad niyang binawi ang kamay niya at gulat na tumingin sa akin. I pinned her down the bed again, holding both her hands down. 

“You just never learn, do you?”  I mumbled, almost close to her face. I could see her throat gulping, her eyes met mine with both desire and fear.

Bumaba ang mga labi ko sa kanya. I gave her a hard, punishing kiss. Thank God she slapped me in the face. I now had an excuse to taste her again. My tongue went inside her mouth and played with hers. She moaned against my lips and wrapped her arms around me.

We both froze when we heard a knock on the door. Agad naghiwalay ang mga labi namin at nagkatinginan kami sa isa’t isa.

“Valerie!”  We heard Jaime’s voice as he knocked on the door. She looked at me, her eyes wide in panic.  “Hija, I’m coming in.”

She shoved me inside her duvet and lied down the bed. I was on top of her, my head resting on her stomach as I lied as still and flat as possible. 

“O-okay, daddy.”  She shouted at the door.

Narinig kong bumukas ang pinto. 

“How are you feeling?”  Tanong ni Jaime. 

“I’m feeling a little better now.”  She answered.

“Kumain ka na ba?” 

“N–mmm… n-not yet, da-ddy!”  She said as I gently stroke the outside of her panties. I kept my mouth tightly shut, trying to surpress a laugh. This’ll teach her a lesson not to mess with me. 

“Bakit hindi ka pa kumakain? Pinaakyatan na kita ng pagkain, hindi ba?”

“I-I was… ju-st about to… ohhh eat!”  She struggled say. My fingers crept inside her panties, stroking her folds, surprised how warm and wet they already were.

“You don’t sound okay to me.” 

“Dad, I just need some sleep! Please!”  She cried out when I massaged her clit in small circles.

“Okay, you don’t need to shout.”  Sabi ni Jaime.  “Pagkatapos mong kumain, padadalhan kita ng gamot.”

“Okay…”  She answered, almost out of breath and panting.

Narinig ko ang mga yabag ng paa ni Jaime bago ko narinig ang pagbukas at pagsara ng pinto. I popped my head out of the duvet and I met her glare. Pinakawalan ko na ang tawang kanina ko pa pinipigil.

“That’s not funny!”  Sabi ni Valerie.

“It is to me.” S abi ko.  “Have you learned your lesson now, brat?”

She hesitantly nodded her head, embarrassed and defeated. 

“Good.”  I smiled before bringing my finger to my lips and licking her juice off it.  “Thanks for the treat.”

Namumula ang mga pisnging nag-iwas siya ng tingin sa akin.

Chapter Eleven

Valerie’s POV

I stared at the door where Axel left just a few seconds ago. I hugged my knees to my chest as I thought of what just happened. For the second time I let him touch me at nandito pa si daddy habang ginagawa niya iyon. He made me come while my dad was here and talking to me. That douche was sick in the head! At siguro katulad niya rin ako kasi… kasi nagustuhan ko ang ginawa niya sa akin.

I chewed my bottom lip at my confession to myself. I could’ve stopped him last night but I didn’t. The moment he touched me, my body begged for more. The reaction of my mind and body to his touch was beyond my control. Every nerve felt like it was on fire burning from the inside out. And when I reached my release they exploded in to twinkles.  Now, I knew why my friends like sex so much. They say it feels good but I never thought it would be that good! 

Pero pagkatapos nun, after the sensation faded and the twinkles died, bumalik ako sa katinuan ko at gusto kong iumpog ang sarili ko sa pader for being so stupid. Pinagsisisihan ko ang nangyari pero magsisinungaling ako kung sasabihin kong hindi ko rin ginusto yun. At naulit pa iyon kanina and here I was, regretting it again.

“ANG TANGA-TANGA MO VALERIE!”  I screamed and buried my head on my pillow. My tears started to fall again. I had promised myself that I would only let the man I love have me but I let the man I hate to death touch me. I felt all tainted and ruined.

Damn you, Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne.

Hindi ko alam kung ilang oras na akong nakahiga dito sa kama at nagmumukmok ng marinig kong may kumatok sa pinto. I didn’t want to talk or see anyone right now. I just wanted to be left alone. I needed time to mourn for the lost of innocence.

“Please, hayaan niyo muna akong magpahinga.”  Sigaw ko.

“Valerie, it’s me, David.”  He said from outside the room. Oh my god! David… My mind went on full alert. Agad akong napalundag patayo sa kama at sinuot ang robe ko. 

“Hold on, David.”  Sabi ko at pumunta ako sa vanity mirror. I sprayed myself  with a little bit of perfume to hide the smell that Axel left on me. I paused nang maalala ko ulit si Axel at ang nangyari kanina. Haharap ako kay David ngayon after I kissed another guy and he even made me come… for the second time. I bit my lower lip. No, I shouldn’t think about it. 

“Hi!”  I said with a wide smile when I opened the door. 

“Hey, good afternoon, angel.”  He smiled back at me.  “Sabi ng daddy mo may sakit ka daw. Aayain sana kitang-”

“No! I’m not sick, napagod lang ako kagabi.”  Dahilan ko.  “So, where are we going?”

“Are you sure you’re not sick?”  He asked in a concerned tone.

“I’m super sure.”  I immediately answered. 

“Aayain sana kita magabayo.”  Sabi niya.  “You know, like we always do before.  I really miss horse racing with you.”

That sounded fun. David and I used to race with our horses when we were teenagers. Dahil nga doon kaya kami nagkasundo.   “Okay, I’ll just take a shower.”

“I’ll wait for you downstairs.”  Sabi niya at isinara ko na ang pinto. I took a quick shower, got dressed and fixed myself. I wore a sexy pink plaid shirt that revealed that showed my belly button and shorts, I paired it with my brown cowgirl boots.

You’re so gorge, Val.  I thought to myself as I looked in the mirror. David would totally be drooling over me.  A handful of sweet scenario ran through my head. David and I riding on the horse together with him on the back, his hands around my waist as he whispers sweet nothings in my ear. I turn my head to him and we kiss. Iniisip ko pa lang iyon kinikilig na ako.

Bumaba na ako pagkatapos kong mag-ayos. I saw David waiting for me in the living room. He stood up when he saw me and looked at me from head to toe.  “You look beautiful as always, princess.”

“Thank you.”  I smiled at him at lumapit sa kanya. He looked handsome too like he always did. He was good-looking in a prince charming-y kind of way. Always neat and proper. The kind of guy on Disney movies you watch when you were little. Every princesses’ dream. Axel was the villain, the devil. He was handsome in a sinful, dark way. Irresistable. He was the type of guy that should have come with a warning. A guy that would really make you want to sin and succumb to temptation- wait, a minute, why was I even thinking of him? I shook my head, trying to brush the thought away.

“Let’s go?”  Asked Dave and I nodded my head. He opened the door to his car in the passenger’s seat for me and sat on the driver’s seat. Finally, no Axel to bother us. It was just me and my David. 

“Finally, kanina pa ako naghihintay dito.”  Said a voice at the back. Pareho kaming napalingon ni David. Axel was sitting on the back of the car, his legs sprawled opened in a casual way.

“What are you doing here?!”  Galit na tanong ko. Great! Here he was, trying to ruin everything again. 

“Sabi ng daddy mo aalis daw kayo. I thought you were sick… Hmm, did the little massage made you feel better?”  Tumaas ang isang sulok ng labi niya. My chest heaved up and down and my cheeks flushed at what he said. Pinandilatan ko siya ng mata. David was just sitting next to me. How could he do this to me?

“Does he really have to be with us everywhere we go?”  David whispered to me. Axel cocked a brow and I knew he heard it. He leaned forward to us.

“I’m their guest. It’s Valerie’s responsibility to keep me entertained”  He said and looked at me with an ominous smile.  “Now, Val princess, if you don’t want me here, I’d gladly go. Like I told you before, hindi naman ako mahirap kausap. Tell me to leave this car and I will.”  There was warning in his voice. Whatever he would do if I tell him to leave the car, I knew it wouldn’t be good. I sighed, defeated for the nth time. I would never win with him.

I looked at David who was waiting for me to say something. I gave him a fake smile.  “Isama na natin siya. The more, the merrier.”

“That’s what I thought.”  I could sense the grin on Axel’s face as he leaned back to his seat.

David just huffed before starting the car. Ruined. It was all ruined because of that douchebag! He just never failed to ruin everything. He was such a consistent asshole. Huminto ang kotse sa stable ng mga kabayo.

“Ah, so we’re going horse riding.”  Axel said, breaking the silence. Tahimik na bumaba si David ng kotse, I knew he wasn’t happy having Axel with us too. Sumunod ako sa kanya papasok sa stable. His father kept his horses here too since wala silang farm. They had two horses here. 

“Amber!”  David’s mood lifted up when he saw his favorite horse. He fondly patted the brown horse on her nose. The horse made a noise. Sumampa siya sa likod ng kabayo niya. 

“Let’s go to the woods.”  Sabi ni David. 

“I’ll go get Mitsy.”  I said. 

“Paano na ang bisita mo? You’re going to leave him here?”  Tanong ni David bago tumingin kay Axel. They didn’t like each other and they obviously didn’t hide it.

“Don’t worry about me, David.”  Axel sneered.  “I’ll ride with Valerie.”

 

I saw David frown and Axel smirked. Two guys fighting for my attention?  Ugh! Why do I have to be so hot? 

Well, wala naman akong choice kung hindi isama si Axel kahit ayoko. He was such a pest. Always ruining our moment. I climbed on top of Mitsy and Axel climbed on the back. We went to the woods and David was ahead of us. Darn! Axel was just a few millimiters away from me, my back almost touching his chest. I took a deep breath taking in his already familiar scent. It reminded me of last night and this morning. My cheeks flushed when I remembered what happened. I was ripped of from that thought when I suddenly felt his hand on my waist, softly and torturously rubbing and squeezing it. I knew he was going to do something again. I sighed inwardly. Why do i feel like this whenever he touches me and why was I not stopping him? My body went rigid and all I could think about was his touch. his hand traveled down through my hip bone to my exposed legs.

My heart was beating like crazy. David was just a few feet away from us and here was Axel, touching me and I was letting him. His fingers tips played on my thigh, tracing to my inner thigh. Napakapit ako ng mahigpit sa briddle ni Mitsy ng maramdaman kong umakyat ang mga kamay niya. 

“No…”  Mahinang saway ko sa kanya. Minamanyak talaga ako ng lalaking ito every chance he gets.

“No? But your body is telling me yes.”  His hands went further up until he was touching the fabric of my shorts between my thighs. He cupped it and couldn’t help but let out a soft moan. Oh my god! I hoped David didn’t hear it. I felt his lips on the shell of my ears.  “You don’t want your David to know what a bad girl you are, huh? And you don’t want him to know all the bad things we did and are doing right now, do you?”

I shook my head.

“Then you better keep quiet…”  He said. I bet my lower lip to keep me from moaning as he palmed me. Even with the cloth, I could still feel the warmth and the friction of his hand against me while he rubs it. And the motion of the horse made it even better. I breathed deeply, desperately trying to steady myself.

“Hey, Valerie!”  Lumingon si David sa akin at agad inilagay ni Axel ang mga kamay niya pabalik sa baywang ko.

“W-what?”  I asked, still flushed.

“Let’s race.”  He grinned.  “First one on top of the hill under the big tree wins. Game?”

“S-sure.”  I said. Pinatakbo ng mabilis ni David si Amber. I watched as him and his horse disappear through the trees. 

“You idiot!”  I angrily said.  “Why do you keep doing that? Kanina habang nasa kwarto si dad, ngayon naman kasama si David! You’re an asshole!”

“You liked it, Valerie.”  He said and went back to my crotch, cupping it. It felt so painfully good but this had to stop. It was already starting to feel  like an addiction. I mean, who wouldn’t be addicted in to a sensation this good? Gustong pigilan ito hangga’t kaya ko pa.   “Your body loves it.”

“Stop it! Stop molesting my vagina!”  Mariin na sabi ko. Oh God, give me power to resist him. Bigla niyang tinanggal ang kamay niya doon.  

He let out a chuckle.  “You’re right. I’ve made you come two times already. Now, it’s time for you to return the favor, princess.” 

I heard him unzipping his pants. I could feel his hard shaft poking on my back. My panties were already moisting at just the feel of that. Kinuha niya ang isang kamay ko at dinala sa likod ko and e wrapped my hand around his shaft like he did last night. 

“Get me off…”  He groaned. He was big and hard under my hand. He started guiding it to move up and down his length. His breath became ragged and shallow.  “I want to fuck you so bad, Valerie. I want my dick inside you. I want to make you scream my name.”  He whispered to my ears and it sent tingles down my spine. The thought of him inside me surprisingly excited me. I could feel my underwear dampening even more.

“Oh God, Val…”  He said with a low growl. He suddenly bent me down at napakapit ako sa leeg ni Mitsy. Poor baby, she had to witness all these. 

“Axel, w-what are you doing?”  He said as I felt him tug the leg hole of my shorts. My shorts were super short so he didn’t have a hard time doing that. It gaped open wide and flashed my thongs to him. Damn him! Madali niyang nahawi ang thongs ko at naramdaman ko ang daliri niya doon. His finger played with my folds, moving it up and down. I lifted my hips up a lttle to give him complete access.

“So fuckin’ wet, so hot…”  He breathed. I groaned in frustration when he stopped. Tinanggal niya ang daliri niya doon. And I could feel something thick… thicker than his finger. Nanlaki ang mata ko ng pumasok sa isip ko kung ano iyon. 

“No, Axel, don’t put it inside me…”  Pagmamakaawa ko sa kanya. This wasn’t how I wanted to have my cherry popped! He slid the tip of his dick up and down my slit. It drove me mad but God, we shouldn’t… not here… not now… not him…  “No, please… don’t… “

“Let me just… ugh, rub it….”  He groaned.  “I won’t put it inside you. I don’t force myself where I’m not invited…”

That was enough to calm me down. He started rubbing himself against me. The motion of the horse was so helping. I could feel him hitting my swollen and it was good. His length nestled between my folds as he thrust up and down, the friction against my bud made me cry out.

“You feel so good, Val. So warm…”

I could feel that familiar sensation again. The fire in the pit of my stomach. I had reached the brink of pleasure.  “Axel… Oh, Axel…” 

“Say my name, princess…”  He demanded. I did, I cried it out over and over, feeling the tight build up spreading down. Natigilan ako ng marinig ko ang mahihinang yabag ng kabayo sa di kalayuan. I knew it was David. 

“A-axel… si David…”  I quietly said.

“Do not say his name!”  He growled while he continued thrusting his hips. I turned my head to look at him.

“No, I could hear him. Malapit na siya… Oh… he… he’ll see us.”  I couldn’t stop moaning as I said it. He furiously rubbed himself on me. I was almost there, I could almost feel the twinkles. It wasn’t long before we were both shruddering. I felt his warmth gushing out. over my slit and inside my panties. I quickly fixed myself after that and Axel put his spent manhood inside his pants. We still hadn’t recovered yet, we were still catching our breaths but we had to act fast. I didn’t want David to see us like this. Narinig ko ang palakas na palakas na yabag ng kabayo hanggang sa makita ko na si David.  

“Hinintay ko kayo. Bakit ang tagal niyo?”  Tanong niya.

“M-mitsy doesn’t want to run.”  Dahilan ko.

“Well, that’s too bad.”  Sabi ni David. 

“Bumalik na tayo.”  Aya ko. 

“Why?”  Tanong ni David.

“Pagod na si Mitsy.”  I lied. Hindi na tumutol si David. 

What had become of me? I felt like a complete slut  and he probably think I was one too. Letting him rub himself against me and come all over me. Dito pa sa labas, sa ibabaw ni Mitsy, habang kasama si David. What the hell was wrong with me?

“That was so good, Valerie.”  He whispered to my ear as we headed back the stable. Hindi na ako kumibo. Wala naman akong maisip na sabihin. 

Unang bumaba si Axel kay Mitsy. Inalalayan niya akong bumaba, my legs felt weak and wobbly. I looked up at him and he gave me a meaningful look. Agad akong nagbaba ng tingin. I could still feel his essence inside my panties as I walk. It was all warm, sticky and gooey. I felt my cheek heat up.

Shit ka, Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne! You made me feel cheap and disgusting! No, you MADE me cheap and disgusting! 

“Say, Axel… how bout we go horse racing.”  Sabi ni David who was still straddling on top of Amber.  “Oh, I forgot, you’re a cityboy. You don’t know anything about horse riding.”  It was obviously a mocking remark.

Napasimangot si Axel, obviously insulted.  “ Hin ahamon mo ba ako?“

“Forget it. Wala ka naman alam sa pangangabayo.”  Sabi ni David.

“Pumapayag ako sa hamon mo.”  Axel said. I rolled my eyes, him and his big ego. 

“Are you sure?”  Tanong ni David.  “C’mon, you don’t know shit about horses. They don’t have horses in the city, do they?” 

Axel snickered.  “You ride cars and bitches in the city, farm boy. Try to get out more, will you?”

Nagsukatan ng tingin ang dalawa bago muling nagsalita si David.  “Tinatanggap mo ba ang hamon ko?”

Now was the right time to butt in.

“David, that’s not a good idea. Walang alam si Axel-”  Before I could finish my sentence Axel cut me out.

“Oh Val, you’ve taught me enough. Haven’t I proven that to you earlier?”  He winked at me and I was left speechless.

“Yun naman pala.”  Sabi ni David.  “Here’s the deal, kapag ako ang nauna, you would leave me and Valerie alone. Hindi ka sasama sa amin tuwing aalis kami. I don’t like you tagging along with us. Because let’s be honest, I don’t like you and I know you don’t like me.”

Axel paused for awhile as if thinking before nodding his head.

“And if I win, ayokong makita kahit ang anino mo hanggang nandito ako.”  Sabi niya. 

“That’s a deal!”  Sabi ni David. 

Agad na sumampa si Axel kay Mitsy. He shook the bridle and Mitsy started to run. He started racing with David. Holy truck! This spells trouble.

“Axeeel!”  Sigaw ko ngunit hindi niya ako pinansin. Hindi pa nakakalayo sa pagtakbo ang kabayo when I saw him lost balance. He was going so fast and he still didn’t know how to balance himself so he fell of Mitsy. Bumagsak siya sa lupa. I hurridly ran to him.

“Axel!”  I said as I saw him wreathing in pain. Lumuhod ako sa tabi niya.  “Axel, are you okay?”

“Fuck! My legs… it fucking hurts like hell!”  He groaned.

Chapter Twelve

Valerie’s POV

“Why did you let him ride the horse by himself?” Dad asked in a low but firm voice. David and I took him to the nearest hospital at tinawagan ko si dad para sabihin ang nangyari kay Axel. He obviously wasn’t so happy ng malaman niya iyon. 

“I’m sorry, tito. It was my fault. Nagkatuwaan lang kami at hinamon ko si Axel na makipagkarera sa akin.”  David said, apologetic.

“Well, Valerie should’ve known better than to let him ride the horse alone.”  Sabi ni dad.  “Bisita natin siya, he’s our responsibility.”

“I’m sorry, daddy.”  I sighed.

Bago pa muling makapagsalita si dad ay lumabas na ang doktor na tumingin kay Axel mula sa kwarto. The doctor was a good friend of dad. Well, lahat naman dito kaibigan ni dad.

“Kamusta na si Axel?”  I asked him. I was legit worried about him. Nakita kong masama ang pagkakahulog niya kanina. One of his ankle even turned purple and swollen.

“Fortunately, there were no fractured bones. Kailangan niya lang ng pahinga at niresetahan ko na rin siya ng pain medicine.”  Sagot niya. 

Dad thanked his doctor friend at habang nag-uusap silang dalawa ay pumasok ako sa kwarto. Nakaupo siya kama habang nakataas ang isang paa na may nakabalot na ace bandage at nakasandal ang likod sa pader. I quietly looked at him and he looked back at me. 

“Are you okay?”  I asked.

“Do I look okay to you?”  Nakasimangot at sarkastikong sabi niya. Yeah, he was definitely okay na. 

I rolled my eyes.  “You’re a complete idiot! Alam mo naman na hindi ka marunong mangabayo-”

“Hey, hey… I know how to ride a horse, it’s just that your stupid horse decided to bolt.”  He said.

Pumamewang ako at tumaas ang kilay.  “Mitsy is not stupid! Ikaw ang may kasalanan kung bakit ka nagkaganyan. You just can’t admit na hindi ka talaga marunong mangabayo at natalo ka ni David!” 

“Okay, I admit, I lost to that preppy son of a bitch.”  His frown suddenly turned in to a grin. “Pero hindi mo pwedeng sabihin sa akin na hindi ako marunong mangabayo. You know how I expertly rode you back there. You were moaning my name and grinding your pussy on my cock like there’s no tomorrow.”  Bumaba ng tingin ang mga mata niya sa crotch ko.  “Your cum-soaked panties would prove it.”

My cheeks burned at his explicitness.  “Bastos!”

“Sa sinabi ko nabastusan ka? Bakit sa ginawa natin kanina hindi ka nabastusan?”  He chuckled.

“Shut up! Just shut your mouth.”  I told him. Now, I didn’t feel bad for him as much as I did kanina. Stupid jerk deserved it!

Bumukas ang pinto at pumasok si Dad at si David. Axel gave me a knowing grin that made me blush even more. 

“Kamusta na ang pakiramdam mo, hijo?”  Tanong ni dad kay Axel.

“The doctor gave me some pain meds so it doesn’t hurt as much.”  Sagot ni Axel. 

“Mabuti naman kung ganon.”  Dad nodded.  “Are you ready to go home.”

“Yeah, I think I am.”  He answered. Dad asked for a wheelchair at pagkaraan ng ilang sandali ay bumalik ang nurse na dala ang wheelchair.

“A little help here, Val.”  Axel grinned.

Tinaasan ko siya ng kilay. Help, help his face! Napatingin ako kay dad. He was looking at me, urging me to help Axel. I let out a huff of annoyance and rolled my eyes. Lumapit ako kay Axel at kinuha ang braso niya para alalayin siya. But instead, he wrapped it around my shoulders. He smelled so good,so manly… I inhaled inwardly. God, I hated having him this close to me. His scent reminded me of… sex?

I blushed at the thought of that. What had become of me? This was so not normal anymore. He caught me at that state and he grinned even bigger as if he just read my mind. Nag-iwas ako ng tingin sa kanya at maingat na inalalayan paupo sa wheelchair.

“The wheelchair isn’t going to push itself.”  Nakangising sabi sa akin ni Axel. Umikot na naman ang mga mata ko. Pasalamat siya nandito si daddy kung hindi, I would’ve pushed him off his wheelchair. 

Lumabas na kami ng kwarto habang tulak-tulak siya sa wheelchair. Dad’s car was already waiting for us in front of the hospital. Napatingin ako kay David with an apologetic look. Sinira na naman ni Axel ang ‘date’ namin. Suddenly, a flash of hope shot through me. Injured na siya so ibig sabihin hindi na niya na kami magugulo ni David. He couldn’t walk so he had no choice but to stay home.

“Bye, angel.”  Paalam ni David. He brought his own car so hindi siya sasabay sa amin ni dad.

“Bye. Sa susunod na lang ulit.”  I said, biting my lower lip. He just understandingly smiled at me and nodded his head. I hugged him and he hugged me back.

It was quickly cut off by Axel clearing his throat loudly. Agad kaming nagkahiwalay ni David. I could feel the weight of Axel’s stare but I didn’t look at him. I gave him a cheek to cheek kiss. 

“Bye, tito Jaime.”  Paalam ni David kay dad. 

Dad smiled at him.  “Bye, mag-ingat ka at madilim na.”

“Get well soon, Axel.”  Sabi niya pa bago umalis but Axel didn’t answer. I thought I even saw him grimace. What an asshole! David was just trying to be nice to him.

Umalis na si David papunta sa sarili niyang kotse.

“Kailangan mo ng tulong, hijo?”  Tanong ni dad as he struggled to get up from his wheelchair.

“Kaya na nito ni Valerie, Jaime, di ba?”  And Axel looked at me with a deviant smile.

“Y-yeah…” 

Pumasok na si dad sa kotse at umupo sa driver’s seat. I had to help this idiot get in the car. Axel wrapped his arm around my waist as I lifted him up his chair. Inalalayan ko siya papasok sa kotse when suddenly he grabbed my butt and gave it a tight squeeze. 

Sa gulat ko ay nabitawan ko siya, napasubsob siya sa upuan at malakas na napamura.

“Valerie!”  Lumingon si dad sa amin. It was my fault again! I wished dad could see kung anong mga kabastusan ang ginagawa niya habang hindi siya nakatingin.

“I- I slipped!”  Dahilan ko and I threw Axel a glare. Ngumiti ito ng nakakaloko. Bwisit! It was a quiet trip pabalik ng bahay. He was surprisingly quiet and he didn’t do anything sneaky.

I helped Axel out of the car. Putting one of his arm around my shoulder and my arm went around his waist. He could move his other leg but the other one was a hopeless case. Inalalayan ko siya paakyat sa kwarto niya.

Hiniga ko si Axel sa kama at dahil sa bigat niya ay napahiga ako sa ibabaw niya. I struggled to get out of his grip and get up but he wouldn’t let me.

“Let me go…”  I said, trying to get up. 

“Hey, Val…” Nahinto ako ng tawagin niya ang pangalan ko at tumingala sa kanya. He looked at me with eyes half-opened, his voice slurred. He was obviously (and thankfully) drowsy.  Namumungay na ang mga mata niya sa antok. Epekto ng gamot na ibinigay sa kanya ng doktor. 

“Thanks, I had a great time with you.”  He said. A smile slowly crept on my lips without me realizing it as I looked at him. Nothing about him made sense to me. I hated him but there’s a warmth from him that pulls at me. That was why I couldn’t resist everything he does to me. I couldn’t escape him, he was like a magnet and I was the hopeless steel. Hinilig ko ang ulo ko sa dibdib niya at hinayaan na siya. Aalis na lang ako kapag nakatulog na siya…

“Valerie…”  I heared a familiar gentle voice in my ear that made me smile. Idinilat ko ang mga mata ko. I blinked and tried to focus my vision, I was still sleepy. Nawala ang antok ko ng makita ko ang mukha ni Axel na nakatingin at nakangisi sa akin.

“Good morning, princess.”  He said. Morning? I looked around the room and it was bright with the morning light shining from the window. I hadn’t realized na nakatulog ako kagabi?

“I heard you say my name in your sleep. Were you dreaming about me, princess? Tell me, in your dream, were we fucking nice and slow or were you making me sweat for it?” 

And he was back at it…

---

@JessicaTejada thanks for making such an amazing cover (on the media section). I love it <3

Chapter Thirteen

Axel’s POV

I woke up feeling something heavy on my chest. I opened my eyes and was about to swap it away but saw Valerie’s head resting there. Idly, I stared at her sleeping face for a few seconds, not really knowing what to do. I couldn’t explain it but the feeling of having her in my arms felt perfect and natural. Like this was meant to happen.

I reached my hand to her hair and brushed back a few strands of her hair out of her face. I was instantly attracted to her the first time I saw her in the hospital while Tristan was in coma. I had seen so many beautiful women but I got overwhelmed when she looked at me. She was beautiful and she knew it. And she sure as hell knew how to use it to get what she wanted. She was such a tease in every shape and form. Kahit nga natutulog siya para pa rin siyang nang-aakit. Mula sa buhok niya ay pinagapang ko ang mga daliri ko sa pisngi niya.

She suddenly moved closer to me. Isiniksik pa niya lalo ang sarili niya sa tagiliran ko. I swallowed.  Parang napaso ang mga kamay kong inilayo iyon sa mukha niya. Damn! I wasn’t supposed to feel this way.

I tried to push that thought away.

Feel what? You’re just fuckin horny, man… You just want to fuck her!   

Yeah, that thought made so much more sense to me. I just wanted to screw her. It was just the anticipation I felt.

“Valerie…”  Dahan-dahan kong tinanggal ang mga braso kong nakapulupot sa kanya. I didn’t like how comfortable it felt having her in my arms. This was like a scene right out of a sappy romance film where the guy cuddles the girl and plays with her hair after fucking? We didn’t even fuck.

She moaned, said my name and smiled. Hindi ko napigilan ang mapangiti. Was she dreaming of me? Inilapit ko ang bibig ko sa tainga niya.  “Valerie…”

Slowly, she opened her eyes, blinking a couple of times before her vision focused on me. Nanlaki ang mga mata niya at lalo akong napangiti sa reaksyon niya. 

“Good morning, princess.”  I grinned.  “I heard you say my name in your sleep. Were you dreaming about me, princess? Tell me, in your dream, were we fucking nice and slow and were you making me sweat for it?”

Nanlaki lalo ang mga mata niya at sumimangot siya. She hit me on the chest.  “I did not dream of you!”

“Bakit mo binabanggit ang pangalan ko?”  I cocked a brow.

“Did not! You’re lying… Tabi nga!”  She quickly pushed me away, jumped out of the bed and ran out of my room. Matagal kong tinitigan ang pinto kung saan siya lumabas bago naiiling na napangiti. My eyes averted to the side of the bed where she layed next to me. Wala sa sariling hinawakan ko ang pwesto kung saan siya nakahiga kanina. Everytime I was with her I feel lust, I couldn’t rebel against my primitive needs, lust and something more… I always felt the need to watch her whenever she’s in the room, touch her whenever she’s near… It was confusing for me. Ngayon ko lang ito naramdaman. I had never felt this way even for… Napahinto ako at sunod-sunod na napailing at matagal na tumitig sa kisame

This was ridiculous. Valerie, what have you done to me?

She was driving me mad. Hindi ko magawang alisin siya sa isip ko kahit gusto ko. I couldn’t even take a single breath without wishing I was touching her. To burn with this much desire and keep it to myself was the worst punishment I had ever had.

Just thinking about was enough to make me hot all over…

Valerie’s POV

I was in front of the vanity mirror, drying my hair after getting out of the shower. Even after taking a bath, I could still smell him on me. I could still feel his warmth wrapped around my body. I sighed while looking at myself in the mirror. His scent, his touch and his kiss… it burned in my memory like a bad song stuck in my head. I didn’t want it there but I couldn’t get rid of it.

Bumalik na naman sa isip ko ang nangyari sa ibabaw ni Mitsy kahapon. We practically had done everything except penetration. I fooled around with Axel behind David’s back… literally. I started to question if I was still worthy for David. Hindi na ako ‘malinis’ na babae. Axel had already tainted me in every way. I was still technically a virgin but that was all. I was no longer pure but at least my ‘virginity’ pa akong mabibigay sa kanya, iyon na lang ang pinanghahawakan ko ngayon. I only wanted David to have it. Hindi si Axel ang makakakuha nun. I will protect it with everything I have. I didn’t save my virginity just so I could lose it to some playboy douchebag who would have sex with anyone with a vagina.

Pagkatapos kong magbihis at mag-ayos ay bumaba ako sa dining room para kumain. Dad was already sitting on his usual spot, reading newspaper.

“Good morning, daddy.”  I said, kissing him on the cheek.

“Good morning, hija.” 

Umupo ako sa right side ni daddy and we silently ate our breakfast.

“Pagkatapos mong kumain dalhan mo si Axel ng almusal.”  Sabi ni daddy,

Napahinto ako bago ko pa masubo ang hotdog na nakatusok sa tinidor ko. I looked at dad and frowned.  “May mga maid naman tayo. Bakit kailangan ako pa ang magdala sa kanya ng breakfast?”

“Bakit ba hindi mo makasundo si Axel? Pinuntahan ka niya dito mula pa sa Maynila para makipag-ayos sa’yo. Nakakahiya sa kanya na hindi mo man lang siya asikasuhin gayong ikaw ang dahilan kung bakit siya napilayan.”

“How many times do I have to tell you, daddy, na hindi ko kasalanan iyon? Siya ang may gawa nun sa sarili niya.Hindi na bata si Axel, he knows what he’s doing.”  Inis na sabi ko.

Dad sighed.  “Valerie, kung anuman ang hindi niyo mapagkasunduan, ayusin mo na yun. Nakikita ko naman na gumagawa siya ng paraan para magkaayos kayo. He’s trying to reach out to you.”

He’s trying to get in my pants! Kung alam mo lang!

“What if I don’t want to?” I cocked a brow.

“Then I’d have to do things you won’t want me to do. Ipapaputol ko ang credit cards mo at hindi kita papayagan lumabas ng hacienda kahit pa kasama mo si David hangga’t hindi ka nakikipag-ayos kay Axel.”

“What? You can’t do that to me!”  I exclaimed, slamming my hands on the table. Iyon na nga lang ang kaligaya

“Of course, I can and I will. Trust me.”  Dad said in a serious tone.  “He’s your brother’s friend. Isa siya sa mga tumulong sa kapatid mo noong mga panahong wala tayo sa tabi niya. The least you can do is show him a little hospitality.”

I pursed my lips in annoyance. I just couldn’t wait for Axel to leave the hacienda. Pahamak talaga ang lalaking iyan. Isa siyang malaking tinik sa buhay ko.

Dad looked down at his wrist watch.  “Kailangan ko ng umalis. Ikaw na ang bahala kay Axel.”

“Fine.”  I huffed and rolled my eyes.

“Bye, princess.”  He stood up from his seat ang gave me a kiss on the cheek before he left.

Pagkatapos kumain ay inakyat ko ang pagkain ni Axel sa kwarto niya. I stopped in front of his door. He wasn’t making any noise. I wondered what he was doing right now. I turned the knob and opened his door. I found him sleeping soundly on his stomach, his head snuggled into the pillow

Ibinaba ko ang tray sa bedside table. Axel was so still and quiet. I was about to leave but my gut instinct told me not to. 

“Axel…”  I slowly walked to him. Hindi pa rin siya gumalaw. Humihinga pa ba ’to o ano? Umupo ako sa gilid ng kama niya. I touched his arm and he felt hot. Hinawakan ko ang noo niya para masiguro at mainit din iyon. His hair was wet from his sweat which means his fever must have broke.

“Axel…”  I gently shook him.

“W-what?”  He opened his eyes, blinked a couple of times while looking at me.

“Kumain ka na so you could take your meds.”  Sabi ko.

“Wala akong gana.”  He closed his eyes again.

“But you need to eat.”  Pilit ko.

“I don’t want to eat. Just let me sleep.”  Inis na sabi niya bago tinakpan ang mukha ng unan.

I sighed and rolled my eyes bago ko kinuha ang unan na nakatakip sa kanya.  “May lagnat ka. You need to eat something.”

“I’m fine.”  He said, drifting back to sleep.

“No, you’re not. You’re burning hot.”  I said.  “Come on, kumain ka na kahit ilang subo lang. Hindi kita titigilan.”

“Okay…”  Sumuko na siya. I helped him sit up and he leaned his back against the headboard. Kinuha ko ang tray at inilapag iyon sa harap niya. He just stared at the food blankly, obviously not in the mood to eat.

I picked up the fork and spoon at ako na ang nagsubo sa kanya. Inilapit ko ang spoon sa kanya at inilayo niya ang ulo niya.

“Eat.”  I said.

He disgruntledly sighed like a kid being forced to eat before opening his mouth. Isinubo ko sa kanya ang pagkain and secretly smiled. It was weird seeing his vulnerable side. I wasn’t used to it. It was like seeing a new light of him. 

“Last one.”  I said as I raised the spoon to his mouth. I knew he was very capable of doing this by himself but I really enjoyed taking care of him.

“What are you smiling for?”  He teased, grinning.

Hindi ko napansin na nakangiti na pala ko. I wanted to face palm myself. I looked down at the plate to cover my embarrassment. 

“Kumain ka na lang.”  Sabi ko at inilapit ko ulit sa kanya ang kutsara pagkatapos kong kumuha ng pagkain.

“Sabi mo last ng yung kanina.”  Parang batang reklamo niya.

“Last na talaga ’to. Huwag ka ng makulit.”  I said. 

With no other choice, he opened his mouth again. I fed him the last of the food and handed him a glass of water. Pinainom ko siya ng gamot pagkatapos kumain. He went back to sleep after that. Hinaplos ko ulit ang noo niya at mainit pa rin siya. Kumuha ako ng isang tabo ng malamig na tubig mula sa banyo at sponge. Maybe a cold sponge bath would help bring down his temperature.

I slowly unbuttoned his shirt. Napalunok ako ng humantad ang matigas na dibdib niya at ang six pack niya. It was broad daylight, the sight of his powerful body was both impressive and real. He had touched me, pleasured me, made me come a couple of times before but I had never touched his body yet. Hindi ko napigilan ang sarili kong hawakin iyon, my finger traced the split down the middle of his six pack.

I gasped when he grabbed my wrist. I slowly looked up and saw him grinning at me. Mabilis kong binawi ang kamay ko at nagbaba ng tingin.

“What are you doing? Taking advantage of a sick man?”  He chuckled.

“I wasn’t- I’m just giving you a sponge bath!”  I stammered out. He totally just caught me red handed.

“Right.”  His grin became even wider.

“Right! Because you still smell like horse.”  I retorted, trying to hide my embarrassment.

“Why? Does it remind you of something?”  Makahulugang sabi niya.

My cheeks burned, he knew he was embarrassing me… and he enjoyed every moment of it.

“I swear, Princess, you will always remember me everytime you ride that fuckin horse or any other horse.”  He said and he was right. I knew what he said was true. I would always remember him, I woudl always remember riding his… his thing everytime I ride Mitsy. God, he had messed me up so bad. I wanted to get mad at myself for letting his  ruthless seduction  bring me this low.

“Why did you stop, Val?”  He asked and took my hand. Dinala niya iyon sa dibdib niya. I touched his extra hot chest. Oh God, please help me.

I swallowed as he started moving my hands until I was moving it by myself. Nagpatuloy na lang ako sa marahang pagpupunas sa katawan niya.

Pinadaan ko ang sponge sa leeg niya pababa sa dibdib niya at sa abs niya. I could feel the temperature in the room dropping. Binawi ko agad ang kamay ko.

“My pants… take it off.”  He groaned.

“H-huh?” 

“It’s uncomfortable.”  He said.  “I’ve been wearing it since yesterday.”

I swallowed hard before reaching down and latching four fingers on the waist of his pants. I carefully pulled it off revealing his black boxers that fit snug against his skin. My eyes glided down his defined stomach to the indent forming a V and even lower to his bulge.

I quickly snapped my head away from it when I realized what i was doing. What was I doing? Tinakpan ko ng kumot ang katawan niya at nang akmang tatayuna na ako ay bigla niyang hinawakan ang kamay ko.

“Don’t leave me.”  He mumbled. I gazed down at him and he was looking at me. He looked like a helpless child.  “Val, don’t leave…”

I mindlessly brushed my fingers through his wet hair.  “I won’t…”

He grabbed me by the wrist and pulled me down. Napahiga ako sa tabi niya. He scooted closer to me, snuggling his head in between my breasts like this valley was only meant for him. is body curled up to me like a little boy. Nagulat ako sa ginawa niya nung una but I quickly softened when I looked down at him sleeping peacefully. Pinabayaan ko na siya, the poor guy needed rest. It just felt right. We just clung together with me stroking his hair. Right now, all I wanted to do was to help Axel and comfort him.

Nanood na lang ako ng tv habang binabantayan ko siya. Hindi ko alam kung gaano na kami katagal sa ganung posisyon ng mag-ring ang phone ko. I carefully sat up and took it out of my pocket. Sinagot ko agad iyon dahil ayokong magising si Axel.

“Hey, angel…”  It was David.

“David!”  Gulat na sabi ko.

“Are you free for a dinner tonight?”  He asked.

“Dinner? Tonight?”  I bit my lower lip and looked down at Axel. I was surprised to find him looking back at me. 

“You can go…”  He mouthed with a blank expression. Tama ba ang pagkakaintindi ko sa sinabi ni Axel? He said I could go… But why didn’t I feel like going?

“I-I’m sorry, David. Sa ibang araw na lang. I already have a plan for tonight.”  I sighed.

“Oh ok, sure.”  He said with a hint of disappointment in his voice. Nagpaalam na siya at ibinaba na ang phone pagkatapos nun. 

“Bakit hindi ka sumama sa kanya?”  Tanong ni Axel.  “I’m a man of my words, Val. Sabi ko naman sa inyo kapag natalo ako, hindi ko na kayo guguluhin.”

“I promised dad I would take care of you.”  I answered. Although it was true pwede rin naman akong umalis kung gusto ko. Plus he said I could go but I chose not to.  “Masama pa rin ba ang pakiramdam mo?”  Pag-iiba ko.

He sat right up next to me. He cupped my chin in between his fingers and made me face him.  “Do you love David, Val?”

It took me a couple of seconds before I could answer “Yes…” 

That was what I believed. I grew up with David. He was my childhood sweetheart, my first kiss. He was my perfect dream guy. For a long time, he was the only man I pictured myself marrying. Ilang taon ko siyang hinintay nang umalis siya. I saved myself for him. If this wasn’t love then I don’t know what this is. 

Umiling si Axel.  “You’re not in love with him. You’re just in love with the idea of him. When you don’t know a person you can fill all the things you don’t know about him with everything you want. In your mind, David is your prince charming but he is not. And you’re no princess, Val, you’re a bad girl and you deserve to be treated like one.”

“I’m giving you the good and the bad, and even ugly. But you know this is real.”  His face was so close to mine I could feel his hot breath. Axel lowered his head on mine and I closed my eyes as my whole world became centered on him. He kissed me, running his tongue over lips, gently biting and sucking my lower lip as my lips moved with his. I felt like there was hundreds of butterflies fluttering in my stomach and fireworks exploding in my head. His tongue thrusted inside my mouth, forcing it to open. 

I trembled under the hands that held my face. I let myself drown. I let myself drown in him, letting all thought out of my head. We were both panting but we just kept kissing. My need for him was stronger than my need for oxygen. 

We kissed until we were lying on the bed with him on top of me. His hand slid up and down my legs and up to the side of my body. He touched me here and there, only coming close to the parts that was aching for his touch. Iniliyad ko ang katawan ko sa kanya. His hand finally cupped my breast, his fingers brushing on my nipple, eliciting a gasp from me.

Humiwalay ang labi niya sa labi ko. He gave small kisses down onto the line of my jaw and down to my neck. Kumapit ako sa buhok niya. He kissed me there for a few moment bago muling bumalik sa mga labi ko. He gave me one final kiss on the lips before he stopped, resting his forehead on mine. Disappointment bled through me. Why did he stop? I wanted him to kiss me again. 

Humiga siya sa tabi ko at hinatak ako sa kanya. Umunan ang ulo ko braso niya at ilang minuto kaming nanatiling ganun. Does he have any idea what he does to my senses, to my body, to my emotions, to my spirit? He invades them. Nobody had ever made me feel like this. He was both my chaos and my quiet.

“Jesus, Val! It’s too fucking hot!”  Sigaw niya. His foot was resting on my lap ng idikit ko sa ankle niya ang heating pad. 

“Tiisin mo.”  I said.

He let out a groan nang ilapit ko lalo ito sa kanya. Axel was doing better than earlier now. Bumaba na ang lagnat niya at pinakain at pinainom ko na ulit siya ng gamot. Dahil din siguro sa pilay niya kaya siya nagkalagnat. 

“Tama na, tama na!”  He scowled. I huffed at kinuha na ang heating pad. 

“I can’t believe you’re such a baby.” 

“You need to kiss it to make it feel better.”  He teasingly said, grinning.

“Ha-ha! Like I would kiss your stinky foot!”  Kunwaring umirap ako sa kanya.

“I owe it to you, Val. Thanks for staying and taking care of me.”  Seryosong sabi niya. Hindi ko alam kung totoo ang lahat ng mga sinasabi niya o sinasabi niya lang ito dahil may sakit siya at nagdedeliryo na? But I couldn’t stop myself from smiling. 

“B-babalik na ako sa kwarto ko. I’m tired. Do you need anything else?”  Tanong ko.

“Lumapit ka dito.”  He said. Sinunod ko ang sinabi niya.  

He suddenly cupped my face and gave me a gentle kiss on the lips.

“Good night.”  He said after the kiss.

“G-good night…”  I mumbled, still hazed.

I left the room wondering about everything that happened. We made out kanina and now he kissed me.

Bumalik na ako sa kwarto ko at wala sa sariling napahawak sa mga labi ko. My lips tinged at the memory of our kiss. I was hungry and I knew I wanted more than just a kiss or making out. He left me wanting more, the intense desire was almost painful. 

Suddenly, I knew I was in too deep. 

This couldn’t be happening…

Chapter Fourteen

Axel’s POV

I woke up feeling much better compared to yesterday. All thanks to Valerie. I never knew she’s capable of being that caring. I always viewed her as a self-centered brat who thought the world revolves around her. She fed me like a child. She stayed. She massaged my strained foot. I loved every minute of the attention she gave me.

I could still feel her lips against mine and the ingrained feeling of her body against me. God knew how hard I had to stop myself from going further than just kissing. It took all my willpower. That brat had gotten to me like no other girl had.

Maybe it was just because I knew I couldn’t have her. I could have any girl I want but not Valerie because she was my friend’s sister. Sabi nga nila kung anong bawal, iyon ang masarap. The more forbidden it was, the more we want it, right? Meh. Whatever I felt for her, makakalimutan ko rin iyon pag nakabalik na ako sa Manila. Siya lang ang nakikita at nakakasama kong babae dito kaya siguro ganun. She wouldn’t even cross my mind once I get back to my girls in Manila.

 Tumayo ako mula sa kama. Althought it still hurt to walk, the pain was bearable. I think Valerie’s massage helped. Ibinaba niya pa ang paa ko sa malamig na tubig at sa heating pad. I took a quick shower and went downstairs.

“O hijo, magaling na ba yang paa mo?” Gulat na sabi ni Jaime ng makasalubong ako.

“Nailalakad ko na at hindi siya ganun kasakit.” Sagot ko.

Jaime smiled. “ Buti naman kung ganon. Sa susunod, mag-ingat ka na lang sa pangangabayo o magpasa ma ka kay Valerie kung gusto mo.”

“Sure, I’ve learned my lesson.” I chuckled. “Nasaan na nga pala si Valerie?”

“Kakasundo lang ni David sa kanya kani-kanina lang. Nagpaalam sa akin na aalis daw sila. Sabi ko nga gisingin ka dahil baka gusto mo kakong sumama pero sabi niya masakit pa raw ang paa mo.”

“Is that so…” I said, nodding my head. A ripple of annoyance ran through me.

“Bakit? May gusto ka bang puntahan? Ipapasama na lang kita sa anak ni mang Andres.” He offered. Naramdaman niya siguro ang disappointment ko.

I shook my head. “No, I’m good. Magpapahinga na lang muna ako dito.”

“Okay, If you need anything in the library.” Sabi ni Jaime. I politely nodded at him before he left. I felt my muscles clenched thinking about them together.                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

Nasaan na kaya sila ngayon? Ano na ang  ginagawa nila? Was Valerie enjoying David’s company? I bet she was. I shook the thoughts away. Why should I fucking care?                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

Valerie’s POV

David took me to a shooting range. This was the first time since he got back from England that we were able to hang out alone together. Without Axel. Pinanood ko si David habang binabaril niya ang target pero ang totoo niyan, wala dito ang isip ko. Hanggang ngayon iniisip ko pa rin ang nangyari kahapon. I thought about what he said about David. Ngayon nalilito na ako sa nararamdaman ko. I started to question my own feelings for David.

Damn you for messing with my head, Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne!

Bata pa lang ako si David na ang nakikita kong lalaking pakakasalan ko. I had never been in a serious relationship after him. I waited for him. But since Axel came in the picture, nagulo na ang lahat. Nagkanda-leche leche na! Okay, maybe I was just going through a phase. This was just a phase. A sexual attraction. Hello, ikaw ba naman ang maging 23 at inexperienced when everyone around you was having sex! Axel was just the perfect guy to be sexually attracted to. He was capital H-O-T, exciting and oozing with manliness. He just jump started my sexual desire. Nothing more.

“Val…” Napakurap ako ng marinig kong tinawag ako ni David.

“Yes?”

He chuckled. “Sabi ko gusto mo bang subukan?”

“Hindi ako marunong humawak ng baril.” Sagot ko.

“Tuturuan kita.” He offered before taking me by the hand. Ipinuwesto niya ako sa harap niya at ipinahawak sa akin ang baril. He positioned my arms for me while I held the gun. His head rested on my shoulder, I inhaled his scent. It was different from Axel’s. He smelled of expensive cologne, very posh and clean. Axel smells of raw masculinity, powerful and natural. He had that kind of animal magnetism that drew women to him. Why was I comparing them? They were two different men.

“Itaas mo pa.” He said adjusting my arms. “And shoot.”

I pulled the trigger and shot the target.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

“Good job!” Sabi sa akin ni David. I had fun with him at the shooting range. Kahit sandal nakalimutan ko muna si Axel. I didn’t want to think about while I was with David. I tried my best not to. I just wanted to enjoy this time with David with no Axel intruding my mind. Hindi nga naming siya kasama sumisingit naman siya sa isip ko.

Hapon na ng makaalis kami sa shooting range, inaya niya akong magdinner sa bahay nila. Natatandaan ko dati madalas niya akong dinadala sa bahay nila pagkatapos naming maglaro and his mom would make dinner for us. And if it gets too late I just call my dad to pick me up. David’s family and my dad were good friends kaya okay lang naman sa kanya. After having dinner, we watched movies together in their home theatre just like we used to do. Hindi ako nag-ayang umuwi hanggang halos magmadaling-araw na.

I just needed this time away from Axel. I made sure it was really late na ng mag-aya ako. I didn’t want to see him. Baka kapag iniwasan ko muna siya mawawala din itong nararamdaman ko. I was confused and frustrated. I wasn’t supposed to feel this way for him. I didn’t want to feel anything for him at all.

Ang alam ko, si David lang ang para sa akin. Hindi si Axel o kahit sinumang lalaki. I didn’t want any guy but David.

David pulled his car up in front of my house. Madilim na at wala ng ilaw sa harap ng bahay. We quietly sat there for a few seconds, none of us talking.

“David…” Tawag ko sa kanya.

“Yeah?”

“Noong nasa England ka ba nagkaroon ka ng girlfriend?” I asked.

Tumikhim siya. It took him a couple of seconds before he could answer. “Yes… I mean, we’ve been apart for a long time. Ikaw ba?”

“I’ve dated here and there pero wala akong sineryoso.” Sabi ko. “I waited for you. You’re the only guy I ever want to be with.”

I didn’t know if I said it because I meant it or I was just trying to convince myself.

“Really?” He smiled.

I nodded my head. Sandali kaming nagtitigan, both of us lost for words.

“Can I kiss you, Valerie?” He asked. I didn’t want to particularly kiss him but I wanted to prove myself something. That I would feel magic or spark when he kiss me. That his kiss would be better than Axel’s.

 I nodded my head. He cupped my face at bumaba ang labi niya sa akin. I closed my eyes and felt his lips brushed against mine. My lips moved against him, trying to find something but it wasn’t found. Our kiss deepened, his tongue seeking entrance in my mouth. This wasn’t how Axel would kiss me… Suddenly, I paused at that thought. Why was I trying to find him in another man? Dahan-dahan at marahan kong tinulak si David.

“Good night, David.” I said.

“Good night.” He answered, a bit disappointed. Lumabas na ako ng kotse niya at pumasok sa loob ng bahay. The whole house was already dark. I quietly walked upstairs to my room.  Huminto ako sa harap ng pinto ng kwarto ko.

“Hey, princess.” Halos mapalundag ako sa gulat ng marinig ko ang baritong boses ni Axel. I turned around and saw him standing behind me.

“Axel…” I said with my hand on my chest.

“How was your date with your prince?” One corner of his lips lifted up. There was a hint of something in his voice. Something not so innocent.

“I-it went good.” Nagbaba ako ng tingin. I couldn’t stand looking at him. His stare was making me feel like I did something wrong. Like I should be guilty about letting David kiss me…

“I bet it did.” His tone was sarcastic.

Not knowing what to say, muli akong humarap sa pinto at binuksan iyon.

“Good night, Axel.” I stepped in to my room but before I could close the door, humarang ang kamay niya doon.

“Hell yeah, this night’s going to be so fuckin good.” Sabi niya.

Before I could react, he went inside my room and slammed the door close behind him. Axel slowly walked towards me, his face was both terrifying yet stunning. His brooding dark eyes almost glowing in the moon light shining from the window.

“You like playing games, huh?” He said in a dark, husky tone. “I saw you making out with David in the car. You let him kiss you… Did you let him put his hands all over you too? Did he put his tongue in your mouth?”

“Axel, p-please, I’m tired.” It took all I had not to let my voice quiver. I knew his anger was different, ayokong sabayan ito. I didn’t want to make him more mad than he already was. He stopped in front of me, our bodies a few centimeters apart. Having him this close to me made me panic but I tried to keep it together.

“Aw poor you, you must have been tired from all the fuckin, huh? How was he, Valerie? Was he a good fuck?” Sunod-sunod na tanong niya. I took a sharp breath at his question.

“Wala kang pakialam kung anuman ang ginawa naming. Umalis ka na!” Mariin na sabi ko. His eyes blazed hot as he looked at me, his desire so close to me I felt smothered and claustrophobic. Tumalikod ako sa kanya at hindi pa ako nakakahakbang palayo ng hawakan niya ako sa kamay. He pulled me to his body, my back against his chest and held me tight on the waist.

“Bitiwan mo ako.” I said, almost in a sigh. With that he pushed me to the bed, I landed on my stomach. Then I felt his weight on my back, his breath tickling my ear.

“You’re a bad girl and you need to be tamed. We’ll play, Val, if that’s what you want.” He whispered to my ear . “There are things I want to do to you.  Things you can only imagine in your most deepest, wettest dreams and desire. Do you want me to show you?”

I shook my head. Even though my body was begging for him, I knew this wasn’t right. He just wanted to get in my pants. Hindi ko hahayaan ang sarili kong mapabilang sa mga babaeng naikama niya. I was only for David.

He harshly grabbed my jaw with his strong hand, turning my head to face him. “Look at me, Val, and tell me you want this.”

I swallowed as I looked at him in the eye. Those eyes… I was afraid of those eyes. I feel so intense and sensual under his gaze. I fear those dark eyes. They make me loyal to him. It penetrates inside my soul, claiming it his. They made me see how much I belonged to him.

And I hated it.

“N-no. I don’t.” I said in a firm voice, rebelling against myself.

“You’re a liar.” He ran his fingers on the side of my exposed legs and started stroking it up and down. “A beautiful fucking liar.”

I let out a soft whimper.

“You know how I can tell?” Naramdaman kong gumapang ang isang kamay niya sa pagitan ng mga hita ko. I gasped when he gently bit my earlobe and cupped my aching sex. He lightly ran a finger up and down my slit through the thin underwear I was wearing. “Because you’re so fuckin’ wet.”

His thumb gently moved over my clit, giving it a few slow and agonizing stroke. He was teasing me. My hips moved against him, seeking release but he held me down.

“Tell me, bad girl.” His lips brushed my ear. “Tell me what I want to hear and I’ll put you out of your misery.” His lips trailed down my jaw, down to my neck, stopping on my shoulder and giving it a soft bite. Sensations ran wild through every part of me. God, my body wanted him. So bad it hurts. “But if you keep up this bullshit, you’re going to learn what the female equivalent of blue balls is.”

“Axel, please…” I whimpered.                                                                                            

“Please what, Val?” He breathed.

“Please… please, make me come.” I said, defeated. My need for him was overpowering, it was desperate and raw.

“You’re going to belong to me, bad girl. I’ll touch you when and how I want and you’re going to let me.”

Without warning, he pushed my skirt up and pulled my panties down, almost ripping it. Effortlessly, he tore my blouse open and took it off. His one hand went to my breast, feeling it up for a few moment before deciding to pull the cup of my bra down. He freely touched my bare breast and kneaded it like a hungry man in need of food. His free hand went back to my sex and over my clit. I cried out as he suddenly caught my clit between his two fingers and began squeezing it. My body dissolved in a sea of mindless pleasure. He rubbed it like crazy until I felt like I was going to explode but then he stopped. I groaned in protest then I heard him chuckle behind me.

“Greedy tonight aren’t we?” He said. I inhaled a sharp breath when he played his finger around my most intimate spot, my entrance. Tumaas ang kamay niyang kaninang nasa dibdib ko sa mukha ko. He made me face him and started kissing me on the lips. He kissed me hard and hungry, I kissed him back, harder and hungrier. I gasped in his mouth when I felt a finger entering me. I wanted to move away when I felt the slight pain but Axel was holding me, keeping me still. I felt him pushing inside me, my walls squeezing his finger, deep inside until his knuckle stopped him from going further in.

“You’re so unbelievable tight, Valerie.” He moaned against my lips. I bit his lip when he started moving his finger in and out of me. I could feel my sex adapting quickly to accommodate his intrusion. He curled his finger in a ‘come hither’ motion inside me. He knew exactly what he was doing and it felt good. The feeling was so foreign and mind blowing that I thought I would lose my mind. I moaned in his mouth over and over, panting with need. Within seconds, I came with so much intensity I saw white spots. It shook my whole body and I felt it drained out all my energy. Sinubsob ko ang ulo ko sa kama habang nakataas pa rin ang balakang ko.

He took his finger out and I could hear the sound of his zipper unzipping.  He rubbed his thick shaft against me and I let him. I thought rubbing was all he was going to do but he positioned himself right at the core.

“No, Axel…” Muli kong inangat ang ulo ko. “Don’t! Not there!”

“Why?” He asked, gently dipping the head around it. “Don’t you want this?”

“I-I’m still a virgin.” I had no choice but to confess.

“What?!” Halata ang pagkagulat sa boses niya. “I know you’re too fuckin tight but there’s no way you’re a virgin!”

“I am… so please, don’t… don’t put it inside me. Do anything you want to me but don’t put it inside me.” I begged him.

“You’re bullshitting me.” He said, less than convinced.

“I’m not bullshitting you… I’m saving myself for David.” I told him the truth dahil wala na akong maisip na pwede kong sabihin para makumbinse siya.

“Ah, David.” He sarcastically said. “I see…” And he harshly shoved a finger back inside me that it made me yelp.   “So this pussy I’m fingering is for your David…” Then he pulled out of me again. He glided his finger up and I flinched when he stopped at my rear, brushing his finger wet with my come around the other hole . “Maybe I can have this instead.”

“No!” Nanlaki ang mga mata ko.  Who in the right mind would even think about doing this?

Napasinghap ako when he slowly pressed a finger in there but before I could protest his other hand went in front and started massaging my sensitive spot. I started feeling another wave of heat pooling inside my stomach. My head was once again clouded by the pleasure. He moved both his hands, making me writhe and shudder with need. I flexed against him when he added another finger, making me scream. He was so cruel, ruthless in all the right ways.

The next thing I felt was empty when he pulled his fingers out. I gave out a small whine without me realizing it. He dipped a finger inside my entrance and scooped up the wetness I had then he ran his finger up, circling it around the other hole. My whole body shook uncontrollably. I had no idea what he would do next and it built a mixture of anticipation and fear of the unknown inside me. Something huge pressed against my opening.

“Axel…” I whimpered when I felt him against me. My heart was thumping really loud and I was sure he could hear it. I bucked away but he held my waist firmly.

“Relax, bad girl, your david wouldn’t know. He wouldn’t be able to tell.” He said. He bent over me. His hand snaked my neck, gently wrapping it around my throat and making me look up at him. His eyes were intense with deep, almost hidden, anger. But I could feel it. “I’m going to fuck you in the ass and make you come. I’m going to make us both come. Hard.”

With that, he pushed his way inside, his girth invading my body. He was so huge. I could feel him stretching me to the point of pain. My eyes started to water as I clutched the bed sheet in my tight fists. He paused for awhile, letting me breathe and get use to his size.

“I hate you. I hate you so much.” I sobbed as tears began to flow down my cheeks.

“I hate you, too.” He kissed my cheek, his lips wiping away the tears. I turned my head to him, my lips meeting his. I kissed him. I kissed him like my life depended on it. He kissed me back with the same intensity before moving further in. Inch by inch. I whimpered and sobbed inside his mouth. He caressed my breast with his hand, kneading it and plucking at my nipple. Naghiwalay ang mga labi naming. We looked at each other in the eye. Sweat beads on his forehead, gradually dripping down the side of his face as he pushed further in. There was a pained expression on his face, probably mirroring mine.

“Axel…” I sobbed.

“I know, baby, I’m sorry.” He grunted, his expression softening. He planted small kissed on my hair, down to my nape and my shoulder. He whispered vulgar, sweet nothings in my ear. “You feel so fuckin good, so tight… I love your tight ass. Do you know how fucking hot you are?”

I closed my eyes trying to focus on his words rather than the pain until I could feel him all tha way in. He gently and carefully moved out and back in.

“Please.” I moaned, not even knowing what I was asking for. He thrusted in and out faster and my hips started to move with his, meeting his thrust. He impaled me over and over. The built up inside me begging to be released. A few more thrust and he stiffened, holding himself rigid as he thrust fully back in. For the second time, I came. So hard my whole body trembled. I slumped my head down and buried my face on sheets at the powerful climax. Moments later I felt an explosion of warm fluid inside me. He stayed inside me for a while, feeling him pulsating, before he pulled out of me. Some of his hot liquid dripped down my thigh.

My whole body relaxed on the bed, sobbing at the emptiness in me. He collapsed next to me.

We took a bath together after. Nakaupo ako sa harap niya sa maliit na bathtub sa banyo ko, sa pagitan ng mga hita niya habang nakasandal ang likod ko sa dibdib  niya. The warm water helped eased the discomfort on that part.

“Does it still hurt?” He gently asked while soaping my back.

I shook my head as an answer. Gumapang sa dibdib ko ang mga kama niya. He started soaping me there. Napapaigti ako sa tuwing tumatama sa dibdib ko ang mga kamay niya. My body was still sensitive to his touch.

“These are mine.” He said cupping both my breasts. He placed a kiss on my neck and bit it gently. He  ran a hand down my side to my stomach and down between my thighs. He cupped my sex and pushed a finger inside. “And this too. This belongs to me. Say it…”

A soft moan escaped my lips. I leaned against his chest, surrending my weight to him, as I threw my head back. He didn’t move his hand and I wanted him to.

“Say it, Val.” He whispered.

“It’s yours…” I said, my body quickly surrendering to him. He stroked me deep and steady until I came.

We quietly dried ourselves after taking a bath, not a word was spoken. I watched as he put his clothes back on and left without even looking at me. Tears silently flowed down my cheeks. Nakuha na niya ang gusto niya. He finally had his revenge. I was just a game to him, just like all the woman he’d been with…

You lost, Valerie.

Chapter Fifteen

Axel’s POV

I sat at the edge of the bed and combed my fingers through my hair in frustration. I tried to sleep but I just kept on tossing and turning on the bed. Hindi pa rin mawala sa isip ko ang nangyari sa amin ni Valerie. She was a virgin, she still is technically. But I fucked her. I fucked her in the ass. I didn’t know what had gotten in to me, why I did that…

All I knew was the moment David’s name left her lips my inside went berserk. She said she wanted David to have her virginity. My jaw clenched nang maalala ko ulit ang sinabi niyang iyon. I wanted to have her first before David or any man could. I wanted to be the first man to ever be inside her, one way or another. I wanted to ravish her, ruin her for any other men after me. I wanted to brand her mine. Never before had I been that desperate to have a woman that badly.

I had fucked up so bad. Tristan and Jaime would skin me alive if they find out all the things I did to Valerie. I, myself, wanted to kill me for doing that to her. She may be a fucking hard-headed, annoying little cock teasing brat but it was not an excuse for what I did. My conscience was gnawing at me.

Sinubukan kong matulog pero hindi talaga ako madalaw ng antok. I blankly stared at the ceiling thinking about Valerie the whole night. I wondered if she was still awake. If she, too, couldn’t sleep thinking about what just happened between us. I had never come inside a woman before. Only her. And I had never fucked a woman without using a condom. She felt so good, so tight and snug. We fitted so perfectly that I almost thought my dick was only made for her. What more if it was her pussy I was fucking? The thought of David fucking that sweet little snatch made my blood boil. It was mine, she said so.

i didn’t know if I slept or not. Nang mag-umaga na I jumped out of bed and took a quick shower. Kumabong ang dibdib ko nang makalabas ako sa kwarto. I didn’t how I would act when I see Val. I didn’t know if I should apologize to her because of what happened last night.

Hell, why would I apologize to her. I made her come! We both wanted it.  Sigaw ng isang banda ng utak ko.

Pagbaba ko pa lang si David na agad ang nakita ko. I could feel my face crumple in annoyance. Ang agang bumisita ng ungas na ‘to. I saw Valerie laughing with him like nothing happened. Like we didn’t fuck just last night. I watched as he wrapped his arm around her waist and my hands clenched in to a fist. I touched her there last night, I touched her everywhere. Naiinis akong makitang may ibang lalaking humahawak sa kanya. Every part of her, every inch of her skin was mine last night…

Lumapit ako sa kanilang dalawa at awtomatikong nawala ang ngiti ni Valerie. Our eyes met and she held my gaze for a few seconds, her face stoic.

“Let’s go?” Sabi ni David. And that broke our gaze. She turned her head to him and smiled. Then she nodded her head.

“Bye, Axel.” David with a smug smile. Para bang nang-aasar talaga.

Yeah, go ahead. Smile, you fucker. Makakangiti ka pa rin kaya kung nalaman mo ang nangyari sa amin ni Valerie kagabi? I thought as I watched them walk out the house.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

Valerie’s POV

He didn’t care about me anymore. Wala na siyang pakialam dahil nakuha niya na ang gusto niya. I was now just one of the girls he bedded. What happened last night didn’t mean a shit to him. He just wanted to get even with me dahil sa ginawa ko sa kanya noon sa club. My vision hazed as I looked outside the car window and I swiped my finger under my eyes to clear away the tears. I bit my lower lip to prevent the sob from rising up my throat. I shouldn’t be crying lalo na ngayong kasama ko si David. Buti na lang at abala siya sa pagdadrive.

We stopped at the horse stable. Nag-aya ulit kasing mag horse riding si David.

“Ready?” Dave asked me.

I put on a fake smile and nodded my head. I didn’t want him to see any sign of pain.

Bumaba kami ng kotse at pumasok sa stable. Nilabas niya si Amber at nilabas ko naman si Mitsy. I pet Mitsy on the head and sighed to ease the heaviness I felt inside my chest. I was trying not to think of Axel pero nang makita ko si Mitsy siya na naman ang naalala ko. It reminded me of the dirty things we did… all the dirty, dirty things. Damn him! Pati ba naman kay Mitsy…

“Up for a race?” David’s voice startled me.

“Sure.” I answered.

“Kapag nauna ako sa malaking puno, you’d have to kiss me.” He said.

“Paano pag ako ang nauna?” Tanong ko.

“Then I’d kiss you.” He winked. Hindi na niya hinintay na makasagot ako. He jumped on top of Amber and made him ran. Sumakay na rin ako kay Mitsy at pinatakbo siya. I wasn’t too far behind David. Hindi nagtagal ay naunahan ko na rin sila ni Amber. Kami ni Mitsy ang nauna sa may puno. I waited for him under the tree with a proud smile on my face.

“Getting rusty, aren’t we?” I teased him.

“Don’t be to cocky, angel. I’m just being a gentleman. Ladies first.” Natatawang sabi niya.

“Right.” I rolled my eyes at him.

Pareho kaming bumaba sa kabayo at itinali namin sila sa puno. We sat under the shades of the big tree just like we used to do. He pulled me to him and I sat between his legs with my back against his chest. He wrapped his arms around my stomach. He doesn’t feel like Axel, he doesn’t smell like him, he wasn’t him. Which was good, right?

“Look, Val, naalala mo pa ‘to?” Sabi ni David. I followed his gaze, it was our initials in a heart carved on a tree. I smiled. We were just teenage sweethearts nang i-carve naming yun. Maraming taon na ang nakalipas pero nandon pa rin iyon. Sinubukan kong kapain ang nararamdaman ko para sa kanya. I wasn’t as in love with him anymore as I was before. I suddenly started to doubt if he was really “the one” or if it was just some silly teenage love. Kung mahal ko talaga siya hindi ko hahayaan na gawin sa akin iyon ni Axel. If I really loved him I wouldn’t crave Axel’s attention, his touch, his kiss… I frozed, completely bewildered and lost.

It was just lust, a sexual attraction. I tried to assure myself.

My body wanted him, not my heart.

“Valerie…” I heard him whisper to my ear.

“Mm?”

“You owe me a kiss, remember?” Tumawa siya.

Humarap ako kay David. A wild idea came to my head. Maybe if I give myself to David, my body wouldn’t crave him anymore. If I would experience the same pleasure he’d given me with another man, hindi na siya hahanapin na katawan ko. I wanted to erase his scent from my skin, the memory of his touch. I kissed David with a needy passion that seemed to shock him. After awhile I felt him responding to my kiss.  I felt his tongue seeking entrance to my mouth which I gave him.

Axel’s POV

I was sitting on the couch alone in the living room thinking about Valerie, wondering what she was doing with David right now. She was with the guy she wanted to give her virginity to. Ano bang dapat kong isipin? I felt so restless and helpless and I didn’t even know why. Who the fuck cares what they’re doing right now? I already fucked her last night, anyway. Bumalik na naman sa isip ko ang nakita ko kanina. David with his hand on her backside. My jaw clenched without me realizing it.

Pissed as fuck, I stood up from my seat and went outside. I just needed some fresh air to clear my mind.  Lumabas muna ako para magpahangin. Pero nakita ko ang kotse kong nakaparada at naisipan kong mamasyal muna. I hopped in my car and drove off.  I didn’t really know where I was going. Gusto ko lang matanggal sa isip ko si Valerie. I gripped the wheel tightly, still fuming inside. Natanaw ko sa hindi kalayuan ang pamilyar na kotseng nakaparada sa tabi ng daan. I recognized the car. Kay David iyon. I pulled over behind his car and got out.

What the hell was I doing here? Kahit gusto kong umalis na at magpatuloy sa pagmamaneho ay hindi ko magawa. I wanted to know what they were doing. Hindi ako mapapalagay kung aalis ako ngayon dito ng hindi nakikita si Valerie.  My feet brought me in the woods where they were probably at. I looked down and saw fresh horse’s hoof print and followed it. This was ridiculous but somehow I just couldn’t fucking stop myself.

“Dave…” I heard Valerie’s labored breath. Kumunot ang noo ko at sinundan ang boses niya.

“Oh, Val.” It was followed by David’s voice. Binilisan ko ang paglalakad ko hanggang naging takbo na ang lakad ko. I needed to hurry, I could hear their moans and groans. And then I saw them and my whole body froze, they were both naked. David was kneeling in between her open legs, thrusting furiously.

“You feel so good…” He groaned. Parang naubusan ako ng lakas sa nakita ko. I had to turn around, not wanting to see anymore of that. I could feel my legs shaking as I walked away.

“Harder, Dave… take me harder. I’m all yours.” She cried out. I felt like there was an invisible weight crushing down my chest. Their moans, cries and groans grew even louder. I wanted to shut my ears and not hear it. As I walked farther and father away it grew even louder and louder until it was too much to take.

“No…” I shook my head as I covered my ears, trying to block out the noise. Pero naririnig ko pa rin sila at palakas pa rin ng palakas iyon.  “No… no…”

“Hijo.” My eyes shot open and I was back at the living room. Nag-angat ako ng tingin at nakita kong nakatayo si Jaime sa harap ko. My chest heaved up and down as I tried to catch my breath. I could feel sweat running down my forehead. “Are you okay? Narinig kitang umuungol.”

“Oh… yeah, yeah I’m fine.” I said.

“Bad dream?” He chuckled.

Tumango ako. Fucking horrible dream.  I thanked all Gods, known and unknown, it was just a dream. I let out a long, slow exhale of relief.

  

Valerie’s POV

“Yung nangyari kanina. Ibig sabihin ba nun tayo na?” David asked as we sat in his car. I wanted to say yes but I just couldn’t get myself to. Instead, I just gave him a faint smile.

“Good night, David.” Hindi ko na siya hinintay na magsalita at bumaba na ako ng kotse. Pumasok na ako ng bahay ng bigla kong makasalubong si Axel. I just passed by him without a word. Ni hindi ko siya tinignan. I heard his footsteps following behind me.

“Val, mag-usap tayo.” He said. “Don’t fucking ignore me.”

 Hindi ko pa rin siya pinansin. I kept on walking hanggang sa makarating ako sa harap ng pinto ko. I turned the knob and stepped right in. He followed me inside my room. Marahas akong humarap sa kanya at binigyan siya ng matalim na titig.

“What do you want from me?” I asked in a harsh voice. “Hindi ka pa ba nakuntento kagabi? Nakaganti ka na, hindi ba? Kulang pa ba sa’yo yun?”

“Val…”

Lumapit ako sa kanya at kinuha ang dalawang kamay niya. Ipinatong ko yun sa dibdib ko at idiniin. “Ito ba ang gusto mo? Sige, magpakasawa ka. Gamitin mo ulit ako pero pagkatapos nito ayoko ng makita ang pagmumukha mo.”

“Valerie!” Mariing sabi niya bago binawi ang kamay niya.

“Bakit? Sawa ka na agad sa akin?” I faked a chuckle. 

I slowly unbuttoned my shirt, still holding his gaze. “You sure you don’t want this?”

“What the fuck is that?!” He suddenly grabbed my jaw and tilt my head a little to the left. I met his hot, blazing glare filled with open accusation. “Why do you having a fucking hickey on your neck? Anong ginawa niyo ni David?”

“It’s none of your business.” Pinalis ko ang kamay niya.

“Sagutin mo ako, Valerie!” His jaw clenched.

“We had sex!” Sigaw ko sa kanya.

His angry face suddenly turned blank.

“I had fun playing with you, Axel. It was good while it lasted.” One corner of my lips lifted in a smirk. “We can’t keep doing this because David is my boyfriend now. You can use me again pero huli na ito.”

He shook his head with a disgust look on his face. Heaviness weighed in my chest as I watched him turn around and walk away.

“Axel…” I called him.

He stopped, hindi siya lumingon sa akin pero tumigil siya.

“The video. Since we’re already even pwede bang burahin mo na ang video.” Sabi ko.

He took out his phone from his pocket and threw it on the wall. So hard it broke in to pieces.

“Delete it yourself.” He said in a cold tone and left the room.

Chapter Sixteen

Valerie’s POV

“Morning, daddy.” I said with a force smile. Humalik ako sa pisngi niya bago umupo sa tabi niya. I woke up feeling awful. My eyes were sore from crying myself to sleep last night. I finally let out all the emotions I was holding back after Axel left. I felt mad and angry because of what he did to me. He had used my body as he wanted. But most of all, I was scared… I was scared because I liked it. A part of me had enjoyed what he had done and on some level, I crave him. Even if I didn’t want to admit, he made me feel delightfully owned.

“Good morning.” Ngumiti si dad sa akin. “Sayang at hindi kayo nag-abot ni Axel. Kaaalis niya lang kani-kanina.”

Kumunot ang noo ko. “Saan siya pumunta?”

“Bumalik na ng Maynila. Marami na daw siyang naiwang trabaho. Nagpasalamat siya sa akin at umalis na. Hindi ba siya nagpaalam sa’yo?”

I felt my heart drop to my stomach at what I just heard. Umalis na si Axel, bumalik na siya sa Manila. Dapat nga matuwa ako, hindi ba? Wala nang mangugulo sa akin at sa amin ni David?

“Good riddance.” I said and swallowed the lump forming in my throat.

“Hanggang ngayon ba hindi pa rin kayo nagkakasundo?” Tanong ni daddy.

I just shrugged my shoulders.

“Kayo talagang mga bata kayo.” Naiiling na sabi ni daddy.

I forced myself to eat even when I lost my appetite. I felt like there was a lump blocking my throat as I tried to keep the tears at bay. He didn’t have any reason to stay here any longer. Nakuha na kasi niya ang gusto niya. To him this was all just a game. He’d throw girls like garbage after he was done with them and move on to the next one. It’s really sick how he gets his thrills.

Dumating si David pagkatapos kong magbreakfast. We went out to see a movie together katulad ng napag-usapan naming kahapon. And suddenly he was holding my hand and putting his arm around me in the theater. David was really sweet to me pero hindi ko mapilit ang sarili ko na mag-enjoy. Something was bothering me and I couldn’t figure it out. I was off. Ni hindi ako maka-focus sa pinanonood naming movie. Nag-aya na akong lumabas bago pa man matapos iyon.

“Hey, you alright?” Tanong sa akin ni David habang naglalakad kami.

I gave him a faint smile and nodded my head.

“No, you’re not. Was it about what happened yesterday?” He asked.

“No, yes… I- I don’t know…” I sighed.

“Angel,” He gently touched my cheek. “What happened yesterday was amazing.”

It wasn’t, for me… Agad akong nagbaba ng tingin. I didn’t want him to see it in my eyes. It made me even more confused than I ever was. What happened yesterday ignited nothing but discontent and frustration. I was supposed to feel something, a spark, anything but I didn’t. All I could think of was Axel’s lips while I was kissing him. I closed my eyes and imagined it was him as David’s lips trailed down my neck but it didn’t work. It just made me feel more guilty. Because I was thinking of Axel while I was kissing him. I let him kiss me for a few moment before I pushed him away. I didn’t realize he left a mark there until Axel pointed it out last night.

Naiinis ako sa sarili ko because I thought by letting him kiss me I could erase Axel’s kisses. Na mararamdaman ko din kay David ang nararamdaman ko sa tuwing hinahalikan niya ako. I wanted to prove to myself that my love for David would win over my lust for Axel. And I proved myself wrong. Hindi ko pa rin matanggap iyon. It was as if my body didn’t belong even to me anymore, this body was Axel’s. His to touch, his to kiss, his to hold, his to ravage, to fuck…

And I found myself beginning to accept it. I was so scared and confused. The man I hated was what my body wanted.

I forced out a smile. He kissed me on the forehead and wrapped his arm around my shoulder. David was the right man for me. He had to be. Hindi siya katulad ni Axel, hindi niya ako paglalaruan, hindi niya ako sasaktan…

Dinala niya ako sa bahay nila pagkatapos naming mamasyal. We had dinner with his parents and he took me home after that. Hininto niya ang kotse at napabuntong-hininga siya. He leaned over to me to give me a kiss pero mabilis kong iniwas ang mga labi ko. He looked at me a bit confused and shocked.

“I-I’m sorry…” Mahinang sabi ko.

He let out a long exhale as he leaned back down to his chair. “What exactly are we?”

“I just… I think we need to take things slowly.” Sabi ko.

“Why are you suddenly cold to me when we just made out yesterday?” He frowned.

“Masyadong mabilis ang mga nangyayari. Ayoko lang magmadali.” I said. “Sana maintindihan mo…”

He nodded his head. “Yeah, I completely understand.” He let out another sigh. “Well, good night.”

Nagpaalam na ako sa kanya bago bumaba sa kotse. I went straight to my room and took a bath. I sighed as the tub reminded me of him. I thought of the night when we sat there with me after he had, I swallowed the lump forming in my throat, fucked me. I quickly got out of the tub and dried myself. Lumabas ako ng banyo at nagbihis ng pantulog. I layed in bed and closed my eyes. But even the bed, I couldn’t lie on it without thinking of him. He took a piece of me tha I would never get back. And it didn’t mean anything to him at all.

Axel’s POV

I hadn’t seen her face in 11 days. Napabuntong-hininga akong sumandal sa upuan ko. Why was I counting the days and when would it stop? I tried to bury myself with work to stop myself from thinking about her but she kept popping in to my head. She’s probably fucking David while I think of her right now. That thought made me feel stupid and vulnerable and I hated feeling this way. I wished I could just turn off my mind even just for one fucking minute. Sumasakit na ang ulo ko kaiisip. I downed another glass of brandy and looked around the club. Tonight, I am going to fuck the first girl I see.

“Hey, look who’s back.” Nakangiting lumapit sa akin si Wayne. “Kamusta ang bakasyon mo?”

“Good.” Matipid at walang ngiting sabi ko.

“Kailan ka pa bumalik galing bakasyon?” Seth sat down beside me.

“Magdadalawang linggo na.”

“Kagagaling mo lang ng bakasyon pero mukhang stress na stress ka.” Wayne said.

“Naipon kasi ang mga trabahong naiwan ko.” I answered.

“How’s Val?” Wayne stared at me meaningfully.

“Still a fucking brat.” I said, shrugging my shoulders.

I poured myself another drink and chugged it down. Sandali pa kaming nag-usap bago may isang babaeng lumapit sa akin.

“Axel!” She smiled and waved at me. She was pretty, tall and slender, with a tiny waist and a pair of pornstar tits. How fucking convenient was that? I swear, I had seen her before but I couldn’t remember when ’and who she was.

“Hey, beautiful.” I smiled back at her. I’m fucking you tonight, baby

.“Do you still remember me? Chelsea!” She said excitedly as she put her hands on her chest. Nagbaba ang tingin ko sa dibdib niya. Damn! Her cleavage was all out.

“Of course, I remember you, Chelsea…” Even though I didn’t. “Come here, baby. Why don’t you take a seat next to meet.”

She swayed her hips as she walked towards me and sat next to me.

“Ito nga pala ang mga kaibigan ko sina Wayne at Axel.” Pakilala ko sa kanya. The two gave her a smile and a nod.

“So, dude, where did you two met?” Seth grinned. I threw him a subtle glare. He was teasing me. They knew me well. They knew I had no idea who this girl was and I was just faking it. Tinignan ako ni Chelsea na parang hinihintay ang sagot ko.

“We met at a… a…” I snapped my fingers, pretending to think.

“We met at Winona’s beach party!” She said.

“Yeah, at Winona’s beach party…” Sabi ko. The two assholes chuckled.

“I’m so glad na nagkita ulit tayo dito.” She wrapped her arms around mine, my arm snuggling between her D cup bossom. I let her blabber for awhile, pretending to listen to her.

“Hey, want to continue our conversation at your place? Masyado ng maingay dito.” Bulong ko sa kanya.

She smiled even wider and nodded her head. “Sure, let’s get out of here. We have a lot to talk about, I’d probably keep you up all night.”

“I wouldn’t mind, baby.” I winked at her.

Nagpaalam na ako sa dalawa na abala na rin sa kasama nila. We went out of the club and got in to my car. Itinuro niya ang direksyon sa bahay nila. I pulled over in front of her house. Pagkalabas pa lang naming ng kotse ipinupulot niya na ang mga braso niya sa leeg ko at hinalikan ako. Hell, I hadn’t been with a woman since Valerie! Napamura ako sa isip ko. Why did I have to think about that brat again? She could go fuck David for all I care. I responded to her kiss with a hungry passion. Nabuntong ko ang lahat ng inis ko sa labi niya. And she seemed to like it. Nakarating kami sa pinto ng bahay niya ng hindi naghihiwalay ang mga labi namin. She pulled away from the kiss to get her keys from her bag and open the door. Pagkabukas pa lang nang pinto ay nagmamadali niyang tinanggal ang butones ng shirt ko at hinubad iyon. She kissed me on the neck, her hands roaming all over my chest and my stomach. It went down to the button of my jeans and she undid it. Bumaba ang halik niya sa dibdib ko, sa tiyan hanggang sa lumuhod na siya sa harap ko. She looked up at me with a seductive smile on her face before pulling down my jeans and my underwear.

I groaned when I felt her hands around my shaft before taking it in her mouth.

“Val…” I moaned mindlessly.

“Who the hell is Val?” She stopped and looked up at me with a frown.

“Fuck!” I pulled up my pants. Pagkatapos ay dinampot ko ang shirt ko na nasa lapag.

“Axel!” She whined while I was buttoning my shirt. “What are you doing?”

I didn’t answer her.

“Axel, you can call me anything you want…” Sabi niya.

Tumalikod na ako at naglakad palabas.

“Hey, where are you going?” She asked, frustrated, as she followed me.

“I’m sorry, Cherry, I need to go.” Sabi ko bago sumakay sa kotse ko.

“It’s Chelsea! Damn you!” I heard her say before hitting my car.

I started my car and took off. Paulit-ulit akong napamura. What was happening to me? Why do I keep thinking about Valerie, imagining her doing things to me? Inis na inis ako sa sarili ko dahil hindi ko siya magawang tanggalin sa isip ko. I was so fucking tired of thinking of her. Bakit ba ayaw patahimikin ng babaeng iyon ang isip ko? Bakit ba siya ang iniisip ko sa lahat ng ginagawa ko? Women are suppose to make my dick hard, not my life!

I got inside my condo and went to my room. Ibinagsak ko ang katawan ko sa kama. My mind was just so fucking exhausted and I was in dire need of relief. I stared at the ceiling for a brief moment before I sat back up. I reached for my bedside drawer and took out a pink chemise. It was Valerie’s…

I felt it, touched it, smelled it… I felt like a fuckin psycho for doing this but what the hell… This was the only thing that gets me off. I unbuttoned my pants and pulled out my erection. I stroked myself, imagining her wrapped around me. Her tight little ass squeezing the hell out of my dick.

“Val… Fuck, Valerie…” I groaned as I stroke myself faster. I was almost there. I could feel myself closer and closer to climax. My body went in to a violent shrudder as I came hard. I found myself staring at the ceiling again as my orgasm subsided. I wasn’t ready for her yet. I wasn’t ready to feel this way for anybody yet…

Valerie’s POV

“Axel…” I opened my eyes and darkness greeted me. I sighed. It was just one of those dreams. Simula nang umalis si Axel hindi na siya mawala-wala sa isip ko. Everywhere I look reminded me of him. He wouldn’t leave my mind even in my dreams. I dreamt of him touching me here and there and everywhere I shouldn’t be touched. My body miss him. It was going through Axel withdrawals…

I sat up and hugged my legs against my chest. The dream felt so real and my body was aching and wanting. I felt like I would sponteniously combust if I didn’t do anything about it. I squeezed my legs together trying to surpress the growing heat there but my hands had taken a life of their own and I began to caress my body. I closed my eyes and pretended it was Axel’s hands. I moaned when a hand stopped on my breast. I cupped my breast and squeezed it just like what Axel had done before.

I found myself taking off my cotton night dress until I was only in my underwear. I went back to cupping my breasts, I touched my nipple and they were already hard. I said Axel’s name as I played with it, imagining it was him. I had never done this before. My hand shook as it traveled from my breast down to my stomach. I let it touch the fabric of my underwear. I was exploring, sliding, making myself feel good rubbing my slit over my panties.

“Mmm… Axel…” I moaned. It wasn’t enough… I wanted to feel more…

My hand slip inside my underwear and I touched myself there. It sent waves of pleasure all through my body. I rubbed my finger where it felt good. Where he had made me feel good. I could the heat spreading all over. I rubbed faster and faster as I neared my orgasm. I slipped a finger inside me, feeling my wetness… slowly in and out… katulad ng ginawa niya sa akin.

“Oh God, Axel!” I cried out. Almost… there… I began bucking my hips up and down as my hand moved. I was on the verge of bursting. I cried out his name over and over as I let myself go. My body went limped against my bed. I felt drained and tears began to spill from my eyes. I miss him. I really do. It wasn’t enough. I could never measure to what he gave me…

I wished I didn’t feel this empty without him.

---

Author’s Note

Salamat sa birthday wishes and birthday greetings. At salamat ulit sa mga bumuo at gumawa ng video. Alam ko paulit-ulit na ako sa pagpapasalamat sa inyo pero talagang na touch ako. Hindi ko ineexpect yun. Basta alam niyo kung sinu-sino kayo at maraming salamat talaga. Naiyak talaga ako. Sobrang nakakaoverwhelm! T__T

Chapter Seventeen

David and and I were walking on the beach after eating at a fancy restaurant. I suddenly felt a hand on mine. I looked down at our hands, he entangled his fingers with mine . I looked back up at him and he gave me a smile. A walk on the beach at sunset with him holding my hands. This was so romantic.

Huminto kami at hinubad ni David ang jacket niya, he laid his jacket on the sand. Umupo siya doon at kinuha ang kamay ko. He pulled me to him until I was sitting in between his legs, my back against his chest. Matagal kaming walang kibo habang nakatingin sa dagat. This was how I pictured it would be like with David. I felt him brush his fingers through my hair.

“Ano’ng iniisip mo?” He asked.

“Nothing.” I said.

“Maybe we could have a beach wedding someday?” He chuckled.

“I – I don’t know.” Kibit-balikat na sabi ko. Why couldn’t I see myself marrying him?

“No beach wedding then.” He said. “Maybe we should just stick to the traditional church wedding.”

Hindi ako sumagot.

“Valerie…” He called.

I turned my head to look at him. He cupped my chin with his fingers.

“I love you, Valerie.” Sabi niya. I stared blankly at him for a few seconds. He kissed me and I immediately pulled away from the kiss. That was when I realized something. Romance is all well and good… but it wasn’t what I wanted. I didn’t want an ordinary love like this. I wanted to drown in passion and be ravaged. I want mad, passionate love. It was something only one guy had shown me.

“Let’s go home.” Sabi ko.

“Is something wrong?” Kunot ang noong tanong niya.

Yes, there’s something wrong with my head…

“Wala, gusto ko lang umuwi.”

Hinatid na ako ni David sa bahay pagkatapos nun.

“Daddy…” Parang batang napayakap ako sa kanya habang nakaupo siya sa couch niya sa loob ng library at nagbabasa ng libro. He put the book down the side table and he took of his glasses.

“What’s wrong, baby?” He asked, worried, as he brushed his fingers through my hair.

I shook my head. 

“Come on. You know you can talk to me about anything.” He said in a warm and gentle voice.

I let out a deep sigh. I was confused with everything. With how my mind worked, how it couldn’t stop thinking about Axel. And my body wanting him so bad. It was driving me insane. Hindi ko na alam kung ano ang gagawin ko. Wala naman akong masabihan. Not even Trina, Venus, or Amy.

I rested my head on daddy’s chest. “How did you know you were in love with mommy?

“Ah, I see.” He chuckled. “Is my little Valerie now a lady in love?”

I didn’t say anything.

He looked down at me with a reminiscent smile on his face. “I just…knew. It’s one of those things that you have to have a gut feeling about. We just knew.”

“Is it possible to fall in love with the person you don’t even like?”

He laughed softly. “Hindi mo pwedeng piliin kung kanino ka mahuhulog, kung kailan o kung paano. It just happens. Our hearts have minds of their own. You can make lists in your head about what you want in a guy but you’ll never really know what and who you want until it’s right in front of you, sweetheart.”

“What if you really, really hate that person?”

“Yan ang problema sa inyong mga kabataan. You think you’re in love the person who makes you happy but it’s not always like that. Sometimes it’s the person who makes you feel the most.”

“Dad…”

“Yes, sweety.”

“I’m in love.” I said in a small voice.

He gave me a kiss on the forehead. “My little Valerie is finally a grown woman.”

I was doing the craziest thing ever. Pumunta ako dito sa Manila para makita si Axel. Pinayagan ako ni dad na pumunta dito. I told him na pumapayag na ako sa offer dati ni Axel. I would be working for his company. Matagal ng gusto ni dad na magkatrabaho ako kaya hindi siya nagdalawang-isip.

“Girl, we so missed you!” Sabi ni Amy. We were at her house where I would be staying for awhile.  

“Finally! Nakalaya ka na din sa bilibid prison two-point-oh!” Natatawang sabi ni Trina.

“You missed out on all the fun.” Venus said. “Buti pinayagan ka na ni tito Jaime na mag-stay dito.”

“Yeah, but there’s a catch. Kailangan kong magtrabaho. Dad said he wants me to be independent.”  

“Oh, poor baby.” Lumabi si Trina. “Buti na lang ang daddy ko… he won’t even let me lift a finger.”

“Yeah, who needs a job when you have trust funds.” Venus laughed.

“I know, right?”A my agreed.

A day after I arrived in Manila, pumunta na agad ako sa kumpanya na pagmamay-ari ng pamilya ni Axel. I stopped outside of the building and looked at it for a few moment. It was big, so intimidating, so precisely shaped and dark. Just like Axel. It was as if this was especially made for him. This was his kingdom which means I have to play by his rules. I took a deep breath before stepping in to the black revolving door in front of me. How could I willingly walk in to this?

 My heart was beating so loud with every step I took. I walked up to the reception that was sitting in the middle of the huge lobby.

“Hi, good morning. Can I see Mr. Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne?” Tanong ko ng makaharap ang receptionist.

“Do you have an appointment, ma’am?” The receptionist politely asked.

“No, but he and I are… good friends. Sabi niya sa akin welcome daw ako dito kung kailan ko ng trabaho.”

“I’m sorry, ma’am but we have strict orders not to disturb Mr. Lavigne or let anyone up unless you have an appointment.”

I sighed. “Can you just please tell him Valerie Zamora is here to see him?”

“Excuse me? Ano po ulit ang panagalan niyo?” S he asked.

“Valerie Zamora.” I repeated.

“Can you hold on for a second, Ms. Valerie Zamora?” Sabi sa akin ng receptionist bago siya tumalikod sa akin. I saw her pick up the phone and dialed. She was talking to somebody pero hindi koi yon marinig. After a minute or so, she came back to me with a huge, warm smile on her face. “Ms. Zamora, pwede na po kayong umakyat. Mr. Lavigne’s office is on the 32nd floor, it’s the door at the end of the hall.

“Thank you.” I nodded my head and headed to the elevator. It had been a little over two weeks since the last time I saw him. My heart thumped with anticipation, excitement and anxiety. God, I couldn’t believe I was here. Para akong pumasok sa hawla ng tigre para magpakain. The elevator tinged and the door opened. I swallowed to ease my dry throat before I stepped out. I stood in the huge hall and at the very end of it laid a large, black double door. I slowly walked down the hall and I was half way there when it opened. My insides went wild when I saw him. He was in a gray suit and he looked hot and intimidating. Nakababa ang tingin niya sa papel na binabasa niya habang nakasunod sa kanya ang isang babaeng nakaitim na skirt at blazer. I just froze right on the spot.

“Mr. Lavigne, she’s here.” Sabi ng babaeng nakasunod sa kanya.

Axel’s eyes averted to me from the folder. I tried to keep my cool  but inside I was hyperventilating. Those dark eyes… they suck me in like a black hole. Empty, intense, frightening and freeing. They were the very same eyes that had seen my naked body. His gaze didn’t even last five seconds before he looked straight ahead, ignoring my existence. I quietly watched as he walked passed me. Like I wasn’t there. Like I was just some crumpled paper in the middle of the hall.

“Have her talk to Cindy. You know I have no time for that.” May bakas ng pagkairita sa boses niya

“Yes, Mr. Lavigne.” The girl immediately answered.

I felt a lump forming in my throat. Pakiramdam ko pinipiga ang dibdib ko. He couldn’t even be bothered to look at me. Wala na siyang kailangan sa akin.I was useless to him now.

Chapter Eighteen

Valerie’s POV

I did an interview with Cindy but I knew it was just only for formality’s sake. Natanggap din agad ako sa trabaho at ngayon ang unang araw ko. I wore a beige chiffon top that slightly revealed my cleavage, a black figure hugging pencil skirt and pair of black fuck-me stilettos. I needed to look pretty for Axel. I wanted to give him something to look at. Tignan ko lang kung hanggang kailan siya makakatagal na hindi ako pansinin. I would do everything just to make him look at me. Even just a single glance would do.

Humanda ka, Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne. Wala pa akong ginusto na hindi ko nakuha.

He couldn’t just use me and throw me away like he did to the past women in his life. Hindi ako magiging katulad ng mga babaeng nagdaan sa buhay niya. I’d  make him fall in love with me. He would be mine. Whatever it  takes.  

I came in early to work. Naglalakad ako sa hallway papunta sa room na sinabi ni Cindy na puntahan ko ng makita ko si Axel. He was absolutely sigh inducing in his hand-tailored business suit. Everything about him reeked of confidence and power. A potent aphrodisiac when mixed with a defined, strong body and chiseled facial feautures. He had this cold yet alluring demeanor. He held an air of importance as he walked, like a king in his castle. He was looking straight ahead with a cold, stoic expression. It was as if everything went on slow motion habang papalapit siya sa akin. Bumilis ang tibok ng puso ko.

“Good morning, Axel.” I said as he walked past me.

He suddenly stopped mid-walk and turned to face me. I felt my throat dry and I swallowed as I looked at him. His dark eyes pierced through me as if he was looking at my soul. “It’s Mr. Lavigne to you.”

“I – I’m sorry… Mr. Lavigne.” I said in a small voice.

He gave me a single nod bago siya tumalikod sa akin at nagpatuloy sa paglalakad. Parang ibang lalaki ang nakasama ko sa hacienda sa lalaking nakaharap ko ngayon. He was acting like he never knew me at all. Like he never… fucked me. Dahil ba sa nakuha niya na ang gusto niya sa akin? He had already added me to his list of conquest and now he was done with me. I sighed to ease the heaviness in held my chin up. No, I shouldn’t pity myself. I should be fighting.

Remember why you’re here, Valerie. Brush it off and keep going.

Hindi ako ganun kadali sumuko. Before I left the hacienda, I vowed to myself that I would never go back there with a broken heart. And I couldn’t let myself down. I finally found the room I was looking for and knocked.

“Good morning, Valerie.” Cindy greeted me with a smile when she opened the door. Nawala ang ngiti niya ng tignan niya ako. “Bakit parang namumutla ka?”

“Napagod lang siguro ako sa biyahe.” Dahilan ko.

“Do you want to sit down and have some water or coffee first?” She politely asked.

I shook my head. “No, thanks.”

“Well then, halika na at dadalhin na kita sa office mo.” She said. Cindy took me to another room. The room had ivory white walls and one side of the wall was made of glass that gave us a perfect view of the city. There were three cubicles in the room. Each of had a desk made of some type of dark wood, a chair, and a computer. Dinala ako ni Cindy sa cubicle na malapit sa pinto. Sabi niya iyon na daw ang workplace ko. She then began explaining to me what I needed to do. Pagkatapos niya akong turuan ng lahat ng kailangan kong malaman ay umalis na siya.

I had two new co-workers. One of them was a woman named Nicole and the other was a guy named Cooper. They both seemed nice kaya madali ko silang nakasundo. Dahil bago pa lang ako and this was my first job ever, tinulungan din nila ako sa mga gagawin ko.

Lunch time came, Nicole still had to finish some work kaya kami na lang ni Cooper ang sabay na nag-lunch. We went to the cafeteria and I was surprised how restaurant-esque it was. It was like eating at a fancy restaurant. We chose the table right next to the window wall and its stunning view. We talked and laughed while we ate. After we had both finished, bumalik na kami sa opisina. The day ended and I didn’t get to see Axel again. Hindi ko alam kung paano ako makakalapit sa kanya. Ni tingin nga pinagdadamo pa niya sa akin.

 

 

It was my second day today. Katulad kahapon, maaga akong pumasok. I walked inside the building and went straight to the elevator. The elevator openned after I pressed the up button. I stepped in and just as it was about to close, a hand shot between he doors. The metal retracted and I saw Axel’s cold face staring at me. Nagulat ako ang kusang napaawang ang bibig ko. He stepped in the elevator and stood next to me. His scent drifted over to me and I could feel my pulse starting to race.

“Good morning, Ax – Mr. Lavigne.” I swallowed.

“Morning.” He muttered under his breath.

We were just standing next to each other but it as if there was a wall between us. He was just so distant and cold and I felt like I couldn’t reach him. I wanted to talk to him but I didn’t know what to say.

“You do know office romance is strictly prohibited in this company, right?” He suddenly said.

“H-huh?” Dumbfounded, I turned my head to face him.

He was still looking straight ahead, not giving me a single glance. “Kung hindi mo kayang sumunod sa patakaran ng kumpanyang ito bumalik ka na lang sa hacienda niyo. You’re not a princess here, you’re just an employee and you’re going to be treated like one. Do you understand?”

“I – What exactly are you trying to say?” My brows furrowed in confusion.

“Kung gusto mong lumandi huwag dito sa opisina. I saw you yesterday at the cafeteria.” He said as he threw me a sideway glare.

I opened my mouth to say something but before I could do so the elevator tinged and the door opened.

“Have a good day, Ms. Zamora.” He said in a monotone as he stepped out of the elevator. Wala na akong nagawa kung hindi panoorin iyon sumara ulit. He said he saw me in the cafeteria. Bigla kong naalala na kasabay kong mag-lunch si Cooper kahapon. So he thought I was flirting with Cooper? I frowned. Napakadumi talaga ng isip ng lalaking iyon, palibhasa gawain niya. I never flirted and would never flirt with Cooper. Him and Nicole were already dating. But even if they weren’t, I still wouldn’t do it because I only wanted one man. And that man wanted nothing more to do with me. The elevator stopped on my floor and I went to my office.

 Day five and I still hadn’t made any progress in my mission. Hindi ko naman kasi nakikita si Axel at kung makita ko man siya palagi naman niyang ipinararamdam na he didn’t want me around. I considered myself lucky if I get more than two words out of him. Something had to be done. It was already twelve in the afternoon when Nicole, Cooper and I decided to the cafeteria. Agad nakuha ng pansin ko si Axel na nakaupo mag-isa sa isang table. It was the first time ever that I had seen him eat here. Pinauna ko na sila Cooper at Nicole na kumuha ng pagkain at sinabi kong susunod na lang ako sa kanila. But instead, I found myself walking towards where Axel was.

“Hi.” I said as I stood in front of his table. Dahan-dahan siyang nag-angat ng tingin sa akin. The gleam in his dark eyes made me shiver.

“Yes?” He coldly said.

“Can I sit with you?” Hindi ko na hinintay ang sagot niya. I pulled out the chair in front of him and sat there.

“What do you want?” He asked in a steel, hard voice.

“Gusto kong mag-usap tayo.”

“Kung walang kinalaman ang pag-uusapan natin sa trabaho, hindi na natin dapat pag-usapan iyon.”

“Why are you treating me like this?” I tried to keep my voice from quivering.

He frowned. “ What do you expect? That I’d pamper you like a princess? You’re an employee here, Ms. Zamora. Don’t expect to be treated any special than the others.”

 “Gusto ko lang naman kitang makausap. Ang nangyari sa atin sa hacienda-“

“You can have the table all to yourself.” He said as he got on his feet. I felt like my chest constricting as I watched him walk away.  Ang sakit dahil para sa kanya wala lang ang mga nangyari sa amin. To him, I was just any other girl he slept with. But if he thought what he was doing to me would make me leave then he was wrong. Katulad nga ng sinabi ko, wala pa akong ginusto na hindi ko nakukuha. And he definitely won’t be the first.  

I had to up the ante. As the old saying goes, kung hindi makuha sa santong dasalan, daanin sa santong paspasan . I took a deep breath before I walk towards the big black door at the end of the hall. Kumatok ako doon at pinagbuksan ako ng babaeng nakita kong kasama ni Axel nung una akong pumunta dito. She was his secretary, I guessed.

“Good afternoon, ma’am.” She said with a smile.

“Good afternoon. Can I see Mr. Lavigne?” I asked.

“Ano po bang kailangan niyo sa kanya?”

“I need to talk to him.”  

“Hindi po kasi siya nagpapa-istorbo.”

“Tell him it’s urgent.” I said.

Napilitan siyang kausapin sa intercom si Axel. Suprisingly, he let me in. I went through another door that lead me to his office. He was sitting on the table in the middle of the huge high-ceiling room. Abala siyang nakatingin sa computer screen sa harap niya.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Lavigne.” I tried to sound as sexy as I could.

“Good afternoon.” He averted his eyes from the screen to me. “ What is this urgent matter you want us to talk about?”

I seductively bit my bottom lip. Lumapit ako sa kanya at huminto sa tabi niya. He looked up at me with brows were drawn together in a frown.

“I just came here to tell you that…” Inikot ko ang swivel chair kung saan siya nakaupo paharap sa akin. Itinaas ko ang isang paa ko at ipinatong sa armrest nito. My short skirt hitched further up my thighs. “I’m not wearing any panties.”

He slowly lowered his eyes between my legs. His breathing had deepened and his chest was rapidly rising and falling.

“From now on, I’m only going to wear short skirts. Nothing but short, short skirts and no undearwear.” I seductively said. “Just tell me when you want my pussy and you can have it. It’s all yours, Mr. Lavigne.”

“Val, baby.” His eyes went up to my face. They were so much more intense and darker than ever as they gaze on mine. I tried to remain calm even though my insides were running wild. At wala pa siyang ginagawa sa akin kung hindi titigan ako. He sucks me in like a blackhole with those dark eyes of his.

“Axel…” There was nothing more I wanted right now but to feel his touch. God, it had been so long…

“Close your fucking legs and get the fuck out of here.” He said through gritted teeth. Para akong binuhusan ng malamig na tubig sa sinabi niya. “I don’t want another man’s leftovers.”

“Axel, I-“

“Leave. Now.” He said in a low but stern voice.

Chapter Nineteen

Axel’s POV

I cursed to myself as I slumped my body down to my seat. I didn’t know what game that brat was playing but I didn’t want to be a part of it. I’d been played once and I would never let anyone take me for a fool again. No, I would never let anyone hurt me the way Giuliana had hurt me. I had to be careful because I almost fell for Valerie. She was just like Giuliana. A spoiled rotten brat. God, I thought I had already learned my lessons. I knew how I’ll break. I knew what kind of situation will break me. I knew what kind of people will do it. And I knew how much it’ll hurt. I just didn’t want it to happen again.

I needed to push Valerie away before she’d come too close emotionally speaking.

Valerie’s POV

Instead of throwing myself a pity party alone in my room I decided to go to the club with my friends. Wala naman pasok bukas dahil weekend. I also wanted to forget what happened yesterday at Axel’s office. Nagpakababa na ako para lang pansinin niya ako. Nilunok ko ng pride, hiya, inhibition pati na nga respeto sa sarili. Pero tinaboy niya lang ako na parang diring-diri siya sa akin. I was only glad I didn’t cry in front of him and walked out with the teenie tiny dignity left in me.

“Girl, kanina ka pa walang kibo d’yan.” Natatawang sabi ni Amy.

“Are you sick?” Venus asked.

I shook my head . “No, I’m alright.” I poured myself another drink and was about to down it when Trina took it away from me.

“Easy there, girl. We’re here to have fun, not get drunk.” Trina said.

“Remember the last time you got drunk?” Amy giggled.

“Nagsayaw ka sa ibabaw ng stage.” Venus laughed.

I rolled my eyes at them as I put my elbow on the table and rested my head on my hand. Damn it! Kung hindi nangyari iyon wala ako sa ganitong sitwasyon ngayon. Axel wouldn’t have blackmail me with the video of me wildly dancing on top of the stage and I wouldn’t have fallen for him.

But then I thought, maybe I alredy did have feelings for him before all of it even happened. I remembered the first time we met in the hospital. I was standing beside Tristan’s bed when they came in. I vaguely remembered my heart skipping a beat when his dark brooding eyes met mine. It was both terrifying yet stunning. He was a sexy hunk of a man. A perfect picture of raw masculinity. All Tristan’s friends were good-looking but there was something about him that pulled at me.

“Halika, sumayaw na lang tayo.” Aya ni Trina. She grabbed me by my hand at kinaladkad niya ako papunta sa dance floor. Kami lang ang nagsasayaw noong una pero may lalaking lumapit sa sumayaw sa harap ko. Trina left me and danced with another man. I had no choice but to just passively dance along.  The man in front of me wasn’t that bad of a looker but I just couldn’t get myself to enjoy. Well, I wasn’t in the mood to party in the first place. Ayaw ko lang magmukmok sa kwarto mag-isa dahil sa nangyari. Napansin kong papalapit siya ng papalapit sa akin until we were only like inches apart. It didn’t take long before he was putting his hands on my waist.

Biglang may bumunggo sa kanya kanan niya. He was bumped so hard he fell to the ground.

“What the hell?”

“Sorry, man. Didn’t see you.” I turned my head at the familiar voice and saw Axel. His eyes averted to me with silent hostility. Napansin ko rin ang babaeng nakalambitin sa leeg niya. He was with one of thos typical club bimbos with ten pounds of make up and huge, silicone boobs.

 Buti na lang pinalagpas na iyon ng lalaki. I helped the guy get up and when I looked back at Axel his frown became more evident. I went on with dancing with the guy just because I didn’t want to leave the dance floor yet. Ayaw kong mawala sa paningin ko si Axel. He was with another woman and I didn’t want him out of my sight. I wanted to see everything he does with that bimbo!

Axel caught me looking at him and I quickly looked away.

“Ano ang pangalan mo?” The guy asked.

“Val –andrea!”

“Valandrea? What a unique name.” He chuckled. I faked a smile and look back at Axel’s direction. Now he was with two women. He draped each of his arms around the shoulder of the two girls and I saw them walking out of the dance floor. Where was he going with two bimbos with ten pounds of make up and fake boobs?  

“I’m Simon.” Sabi ng lalaking kasayaw ko.

“Nice meeting you. I need to go.” I said in a hurry and left him. I found myself pushing my way through the crowd, looking for Axel. Malayo na sila nang makita ko at papasok na sa VIP area. They already got in ng makasunod ako sa kanya. Hinarang agad ako ng dalawang bouncer na nakatayo sa labas ng area na iyon.

“Please, let me in.” Pakiusap ko.

“Hindi pwede, miss. Private area ito, bawal pumasok dito.”

“Kilala ko ang lalaking pumasok d’yan. I just need to talk to him.”

The bouncer looked at me skeptically.  

“Why don’t you ask him? Sabihin mong gusto siyang makausap ni Valerie.” I said. They just stood there, pretending they didn’t hear anything. They probably had dealt with people like me before and thought I was just drunk.

“I am Valerie Zamora, sister of Tristan Zamora, a good friend of the owner of this club. If you don’t let me in Wayne will know of this.” I threatened them. I had to.

Bouncer one and bouncer two exchanged looks. Finally, inutusan niyang pumasok ang kasama niya at pagkaraan ng ilang sandali lumabas ulit ito. He nodded his head and bouncer one lifted the red rope, letting me pass. I climbed up the stairs where the actual lounge was. What I saw made me gasp even though I kind of expected it, it still shocked me. He was sitting on the black leathered couch, sandwiched between the two bimbos. He was making out with the bimbo on the right, while the one on the left was kissing his neck and unbuttong his shirt.

I swallowed what felt like a lump of my heart. “A-axel…” I said, almost in a whisper.

Axel broke away from the kiss and him and the two women he was with looked at me. The corner of his lips lifted in a deviant smile that made me anxious. “Well, well, well, look who we have here.”

Dad always tells me to fight for what I think is worth something. Kaya nga ako nakatayo dito ngayon.

“Who is she?” Nakaismid na tanong ng babae sa kanan niya.

I looked at the girl and cocked a brow at her. “Wala kang pakialam dahil hindi naman ikaw ang pinunta ko dito.”

“Bitch.” She retorted.

“Come on, girls, don’t fight. Why don’t we just all love each other?” He grinned, still not taking his eyes off me. “Want to join us, Val?”

The bimbo fake breasted bitch laughed softly. “I bet she’s lame in bed. Like, she’ll probably just lay there.”

“Lame? Why don’t you ask Axel how much he enjoyed me?” I said with a smirk, trying to keep a composed demeanor.

“Well, baby, why don’t you show it to them? Less talk, more action.” A playful smile played on his lips. “Give them a good show, bad girl. Be a good slut for me.”

My face paled and I thanked God that the lights were too dim for them to see. I stood there, frozen on the spot, not knowing what to do.

“See.” Bimbo clown-faced bitch said.

“She can’t please you like we do…” Said the bimbo on his left. She held Axel’s face and kissed him on the lips. I saw Axel kissing him back with open mouthed abandon. The girl on his right started kissing him on the neck and down to his chest. I clenched my hands into fists as I tried to hold my tears in. It was like watching a car accident. It was a horrific sight that it was hard to look away.

I wanted to make them stop but I knew none of them would listen to me. Especially Axel. But I just couldn’t walk away and let those women kiss and touch him. He was mine and mine alone, not every other tramp in the club. Mine. I’ll show it to them. I’ll be a good slut for him.

I got to my knees between his opened legs. With my shaky hands, I unzipped his jeans. He groaned when I slipped my hand into his boxers and took his shaft out. This was mine. Only mine. It had been mine since it had been inside me. I wouldn’t let any of those tramps have what was mine. I’ll show him I could please him better than his bimbos. I lowered my head to his shaft, slowly taking it in my mouth. I had watched a porn video with my friends before so kahit paano may idea na ako how blowjobs work.

Suck it like a lollipop. I could hear Amy saying in my head. Whenever they talk about sex, I just listen to their conversation. Hindi ko akalain na magagamit ko rin pala ang mga naririnig ko sa kanila.

I sucked the head, swirling my tongue on the tip.

“Val!” He grunted.

I slowly slid it in an inch more. My hand wrapped around his length and I started stroking it.

“VALERIE!” His voice louder and stronger.   “Enough!” He grabbed me by the arm and yanked me up. His dark eyes darkened more as he looked at me, blazing with anger. He stood up and zipped his pants. Muli niya akong hinawakan sa braso at sapilitan na kinaladkad. He took me to the bathroom and locked the door.

“What the fuck is wrong with you?” His voice boomed through the room. “You are stupid!”

“Yeah, maybe I am…” I said in a small voice as I felt the corner of my eyes burn with tears. “I’m stupid for you.”

His jaw clenched. “Bakit ba habol ka ng habol sa akin? Ayaw na ba sa’yo ng David mo kaya sa akin ka tumatakbo? If you think you can make me your fallback plan then you’re fucking wrong, you brat!”

“No…” I shook my head, my lips quivering as I tried to hold my tears. “I love you, Axel.”

“Now, you love me?” He laughed. “What a fucking joke!”

“Axel, si David—“

“Shut up.” He said in a hard voice. “Shut up and just finish what you started.”

I took a deep breath, trying to keep my tears at bay. He put both his hands on my shoulder and pushed me to my knees. He unzipped his pants and took his hard shaft out.

“I bet you’ve done this with David, too huh?” He sneered.

I looked up at him and opened my mouth.

“No, don’t answer. I don’t want to know.” He said as he cupped my face and positioned himself. Axel slowly started thrusting into my mouth. I closed my eyes and took as much as him I could take. He moaned and groaned as he quickened the pace and I felt him repeatedly hitting the back of my throat. He gripped my hair tightly and he was fucking my mouth furiously. After a few more thrust, his body went stiff. He pulled his shaft out.

“Keep your mouth open.” He demanded.

He stroked his dick with his hand and it didn’t take long before warm, white liquid came shooting out of it and going directly into my mouth.  My mouth was already full of his cum when he finished. He wastched as I closed my mouth and swallowed it all down.

After that, he simply pulled up his boxers and pants and left me in the bathroom. I was determined I would never give up on him no matter how difficult he may be. Mamahalin niya din ako.

Chapter Twenty

Axel’s POV

I inhaled a deep breath and closed my eyes the moment I stepped out of the bathroom. Paulit-ulit kong minura ang sarili ko sa isip ko. I wanted her see that I wasn’t the ‘prince charming’ or even remotely close. I was the villain, the bad guy. Valerie was just too fucking stubborn give up. What was she fucking thinking, giving me head in front of those two women? Damn that brat! Hindi niya dapat ginawa iyon! Hindi siya katulad ng mga babaeng iyon. Sinabi ko lang iyon para itulak siya palayo sa akin. I couldn’t fucking believe she would be that stupid to do it.

She thought her pretty face and hot body could move any man to do almost anything she wanted them to do. Not me. She couldn’t play me like them. She thought I would be begging for her sweet little pussy. She thought she could get me wrapped around her fucking bratty finger. Nobody could play me. I knew the game too fucking well.  

“Hey, Axel!” I snapped out of my though when one of the two girls I were with wrapped her arms around mine. “Are you done with her? Can I have my turn now?” She giggled.

I pulled my arm away from her. “Maybe some other night. I’m spent.”

“But Axeeeel…” She whined and pouted. Hindi ko siya pinansin at naglakad ako palabas sa VIP lounge. I got out of the club and went in to my car. Christ! What I just did started sinking into me. I fucked her in the mouth and I made her swallow my come. Nanghihinang napasandal ako sa kinauupuan ko. I felt guilt and regret squeeze around my heart like a rope but I quickly brushed it away,.

So what? Nagawa niya na din kay David iyon. I could tell by the way she had expertly sucked my dick. The incomprehensible in my chest and stomach at that thought of her doing it to David made me feel sick. Lalong lumalaki ang galit sa dibdib ko sa tuwing iniisip ko siya at ang David na iyon. She gave another man her virginity. I didn’t give a flying fuck about virginity but she told me her pussy was mine. What was mine was mine and no one should be allowed to touch it. I felt betrayed when she let another man touch her. I’m a selfish person and I do not share.

I could feel my temples throbbing and my jaw clenched almost painfully. A part of me wanted to touch her, kiss her, feel her, and taste her again. But fuck, everytime I look at her all I could see was her betrayal. And all I could feel was the painful throbbing of my heart when I picture her having sex with David, her moaning and groaning his name as he brings her to climax.

We had sex. Those words were imprinted in my mind. They replayed themselves in my head over and over in Valerie’s cold voice. It mocked and taunted me.

This, I couldn’t fucking allow. I couldn’t admit I was hurt so I tried to focus on my anger. It was easier to be angry than admit to myself that she had hurt me.

Valerie’s POV

I felt dirty and used and the lowest I had ever been. He used me like a whore and I let him. I swallowed my dignity and acted like a slut for him. Only for him. I wanted him that much. Mahal ko kasi siya. I never thought love could make me this stupid. Staring at my reflection in the mirror, I wiped away the tears that were rolling down my cheeks. I splashed some cold water on my face as I tried to get my emotions under control.

Kaya ko ‘to. I won’t give up on him. He’s the one I want and he’s the one I will fight for.

I put on a fake smile before getting out of the bathroom. Lifting my chin up, I walked out of there as if nothing happened. Nakita ko pa ang isa sa mga babaeng kasama kanina ni Axel. She frowned when she saw me. I cocked a brow at her and gave her a proud, wry smile before walking away. I went back to the table where my friends were. I poured myself a shot of alcohol and downed in one go. The familiar burn hit the back of my throat, washing away the taste of him in my mouth. I quietly drank while they talk to try to numb the pain I was feeling.

“Okay ka lang ba?” Amy asked in a worried tone.

“Why are you crying?” Trina’s brows furrowed as she looked at me.

I brought my hand to my cheek and it was wet with tears. I hadn’t notice they were already dripping down my face and quickly wiped it off. “I just… I want to go home. I don’t feel good.” I sobbed.

They all exchanged glances before nodding their heads.

“Okay, we’ll go home.” Venus said in a gentle voice. “Come on, let’s get you out of this place.”

Lumabas na kami ng club at sumakay sa kotse ni Trina. Trina drove the car while Amy sat on the passenger’s seat while Venus and I were at the backseat.

“Girl, ’fess up. What are you crying about?” Tanong ni Amy.

I forced out a smile and shook my head. “Nothing.”

Weekend was over and I went back to work with a bright smile on my face. All it took was some retail and mani-pedi therapy with my girlfriends to lift my spirit and my hope back up. I would never give up until I get what I want. Hindi sapat ang nangyari sa club para sumuko ako sa kanya. It only drove me to try harder. Hindi ko nilunok ang cum niya at ang pride at dignity ko para sumuko lang.

“Good morning!” I cheerfully greeted Nicole and Cooper as I walked in the room. Agad silang naghiwalay sa pagkakayakap.

“Good morning.” Halos magkasabay na bati nila.

I put my bag and the jar of cookies I was holding down my table. I baked these heart shaped cookies for Axel. They say a way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Kung kinakailangan, ako ang manliligaw sa kanya. This was the 21st century. Everyone should have equal rights.

“Ang cute naman ng cookies na yan. Mukhang masarap. Can I have one?” Nicole asked, sweetly.

“Sorry, may pagbibigyan ako nito.” I said in an apologetic tone. I felt bad but this was only for Axel. “Sa susunod dadalhan ko rin kayo.”

“Oh…” Nicole gave me a wide smile and raised her brows. “May pagbibigyan ka pala ng hearts mo.”

I just chuckled and shook my head as I sat down on my swivel chair.

“Maaga nga pala akong uuwi. Birthday kasi ni mommy. Half day lang ako ngayon kaya kayo ni Cooper ang maiiwan dito.” Nicole said.

“Okay, that won’t be a problem.” I smiled at her. “Kami na ang bahala dito.”

“Thanks.” Sabi niya. Nag-usap pa kami sandali bago kami bumalik sa trabaho. After finishing my work, I decided to go to Axel’s office with the financial report so I could have an excuse to see him. And as usual, his secretary greeted me. She was like a barrier, blocking him away from me.

“I’m just going to give him the report and these cookies.” I said as I tried to convice her to let me in.

“I’m sorry, Ms. Zamora. Maraming pinagkakaabalahan si Mr. Lavigne ngayon at hindi siya pwedeng maistorbo. You can leave the papers to me and I’ll give it to him later.” His secretary said, her tone almost begging me to leave. Kanina pa ako nakikiusap sa kanya na papasukin ako sa loob.

“But I need to talk to him.” Pilit ko pa rin. “Tell him it’s Valerie.”

“He strictly told me not to let anyone in. Especially you, Ms. Zamora.”

“Fine.” I muttered defeatedly, giving her a glare and frowning at her before turning my back. She headed back to sit on her desk and I turned back around and ran to the door to Axel’s office. She quickly ran after me to stop me but I was quick to open the door. Bago pa siya nakahabol sa akin ay nakapasok na ako at naisara ko na iyon.

“Ms. Zamora!” The secretary said, knocking on the door. I ignored her and walked towards Axel. He was sitting on his desk, signing some checks. I saw him glanced at me but his eyes quickly went back back down on the checks he was signing.

“What do you  want?” He asked in a cold voice, not even looking at me.

The intercom beeped and I heard his secretary’s voice. “Mr. Lavigne, I’m sorry. Ayaw niyang magpapigil. I tried to stop her but-”

“It’s alright.” He answered before pressing the intercom off. 

His gaze lifted up to me and our eyes met. His eyes was the most frightening and beautiful part of him. There was this sinister gleam smoldering deep within them, the vicious amusement and hunger., like the eyes of a spider staring at a fly struggling in its web. I felt like a prey everytime he looks at me. They were extremely confident, those eyes… confident and without pity.

“What do you want?” He asked again, this time his voice was firmer. “You can’t keep barging in to my office like this, Ms. Zamora.”

“I’m just here to give you this month’s financial report and these cookies I made for you. Sana magustuhan mo.” I said, keeping my voice steady as I put the the papers and the jar of cookies on his table. 

“You don’t have to directly give the report to me. Marami pang prosesong pagdadaanan yan.” He sighed, shaking his head. “You’re wasting my time and your time. Hindi playground itong kumpanya at hindi laro ang trabaho mo. If you can’t take your job seriously, I might as well fire you and give it to someone who actually needs the job.”

“Hanggang kailan ka ba magiging ganito sa akin?”  I asked wearily.

“This is not the place to talk about things like that. You can leave now.” He said in a stern voice.

“Hindi mo ba ako kayang mahalin?” My voice broke.

“Leave my office or get fired?” I saw his jaw clenched and his face showed he was pissed.

I sighed, trying to lift the heavy feeling in my chest before turning around and heading out the door. If he thought his acts were enough to push me away then he was wrong. I didn’t come this far to give up.

Valerie Zamora doesn’t take rejections.

Lunch came and Nicole had already left. Cooper and I went to the cafeteria to get something to eat. We sat at one of the table with him across from me. We were eating and having a nice conversation when I saw a familiar face sitting just a few tables away from us. I was facing the direction where he was sitting at and he was facing me.

He gave me a sharp, piercing glare as if I was doing something wrong. Was it because of Cooper? Cooper was the guy he was talking about when we were in the elevator. I broke our gaze and focused my attention to Cooper. Even when I wasn’t looking at him, I could feel the weight of his stare. He was looking at me with those eyes like a predator looking at his prey.

I laughed with Cooper and got a little playful than usual with him. I wanted Axel to see that I was having a good time with him. I wanted to see his reaction. May posibilidad ba na baka nagseselos siya? Was he even capable of feeling anything other than horny?

When I glanced back at his table, he wasn’t there anymore. 

It was raining cats and dogs when I got out of the building. I stood in front of the building and waited for a taxi to drive by. Konti lang ang dumadaan na sasakyan sa lakas ng ulan at kung may taxi man na dumaan may sakay naman iyon. I didn’t have a car here in Manila. My daddy told me that if I wanted to live here in Manila then I would have to be independent. Wala siyang ibibigay sa akin. He wanted me to work for things I wanted to have.  Ang sabi niya, kung kaya ko ng bumukod sa kanya, hindi ko na kailangan sumandal at umasa sa kanya.

“Valerie!” I heard Cooper’s voice calling me. Lumingon ako at nakita ko siyang palapit sa akin. He stopped right beside where I was standing.

“Cooper!” I smiled at him.

“Pababa na sana ako ng parking lot pero nakita kita.” He said. “Malakas ang ulan.”

“Really?” I chuckled and held my hand out, pretending to check the rain.  “Oh, I didn’t notice. “

He laughed, shaking his head. “Gusto mong hatid na kita? Mahihirapan kang kumuha ng taxi ngayon.”

“Really?” My face lit up. I was already tired and I just wanted to go home.

“Oo naman. Tara na?” He offered an arm to me and I giggled and wrapped my hand around it. But before we could leave a white Maserati car pulled up in front of us. The window rolled down, revealing Axel’s dark and stoic face.

“Get in the car.” He said in a firm, authorative voice as he looked straight ahead.

“Good evening, Mr. Lavigne.” Cooper politely greeted him. “Huwag po kayong mag-alala ako na ang bahalang maghatid-”

“Get in the fucking car, Valerie.” His voice was rougher and more impatient. 

“Salamat na lang, Cooper.” I gave him a smile.

He smiled back and nodded at me. I walked to his car and opened the door to the passenger’s seat and got in. I waved at Cooper and as he was waving back at me, Axel rudely rolled the window up. I sat uncomfortably next to him, feeling some sort of hostility in the air. I inhaled a deep breath, taking in the manly scent of him that filled his car.

“Why are you always with that guy?” He asked after a few minutes of silence.

“He’s my friend.” I answered.

“Kahit na. Hindi ka dapat sumasama sa kung sinu-sinong lalaki.” His jaw hardened. “The next time I see you flirting with him, I will fire the both of you.”

“I wasn’t flirting with him!” I exclaimed. I wanted to think that he cared for me and that he was jealous but I knew he was just trying to find an excuse to get rid of me. 

“I don’t want to see you with him again, do you understand?”

“And I don’t want to see you with another woman again.” I said in a soft but determined voice. “You don’t need them. You can have me…”

“Valerie!” He snarled under his breath.  “Don’t fucking try me. I’m not going to play your silly little game.” 

“I love you, Axel. You need to know that I love you. So much that it hurts and I’m not willing to give up.” My voice was uneven but stronger than I thought. I could feel the lump on my throat forming as I said those words.

Hindi na siya nagsalita pagkatapos nun. His silence was like being rejected all over again. A new hurt lashed through me.

“Where should I drop you off?” He asked, breaking the silence.

“I want to spend the night with you.” I said. “Take me wherever you want. Do whatever you want with me. I’m all yours.”

“Valerie, will you fucking stop being a brat?” He scowled.

“I just want to be with you tonight.” My voice was small but firm.

“You can’t!  Sabihin mo sa akin kung saan kita ibababa.” He gritted out.

I shook my head, determined. I always get what I want and I right now I wanted to be with him tonight. “Kung ayaw mo akong makasama then just drop me off the side of the road. Uuwi na lang akong mag-isa.”

“You know I can’t do that. Responsibilidad kita. Sa akin ka ibinilin ni Jaime, kung may mangyari sa’yo ako ang may kasalanan.” He harshly said as if trying to tell me how much of a burden I was to him. But I didn’t care anymore. Wala na yata akong natitirang hiya sa sarili ko. I would do everything to him. Everything. My iron will will not break.

“Then take me home with you.” I said. He angrily cussed under his breath. A smile of triumph secretly crept on my lips when I saw his condo building. He parked his car in the parking lot in the building. Tahimik siyang lumabas ng kotse niya at sumunod ako sa kanya.

We rode the elevator to his floor in relative silence. Binuksan niya ang pinto sa condo niya at dumiretso siya sa kwarto. I was ready to give him all of me. My heart was pounding violently as Islowly walked to his room to follow him. I opened his door but he wasn’t there. I heard the shower running inside the bathroom.

Isa-isa kong tinanggal ang damit ko until I was completely naked. Then I slipped under the cover of his bed and waited for him with anticipation and something else I couldn’t really put my finger on. My heart skipped a beat when the bathroom door opened. It had been so long since he held me, touched me, kissed me. God, I wanted him, I wanted him buried inside me, filling me completely.

He slowly walked to the bed with a dark blue towel wrapped around his waist. Our eyes met and I forced out a smile. Nag-iwas siya ng tingin sa akin at tinanggal ang towel na nakatakip sa kanya. His body was just exactly like how I remembered it. Hard and masculine. Before I could move my gaze further down, he climbed up the bed. Humiga siya sa tabi ko at tumalikod sa akin.

I wasn’t expecting that. I thought he would jump on to me the moment he sees me. Hindi na ba niya ako gusto? Sawa na ba siya sa akin? I needed to know that he still wanted me. I scooted closer to him, pressing my body against him and wrapping my arm around his torso. Teasing him, I gave him soft and gentle kisses on the cheek down to his jawline and to his neck.

“Val, let me go to sleep. I have work tomorrow. Go satisfy yourself.” He murmured in a lazy and tired voice.

I was practically throwing myself to him and he turned me down. I felt like a cheap slut and he was treating me like one yet I still love him. What had he done to me to make him fall for him this hard? After a few moments, his breathing slowed and deepend letting me know that he finally dozed off. 

I kissed him on the cheek. “You don’t have to be mine, Axel. Just let me be yours.”

---

Author’s Note:

I’m really sorry for taking so long to update. I promise the next chapter will come out much sooner.

Chapter Twenty One

Valerie’s POV

A small moan escaped my lips when my hand reached across the bed for Axel but realized he wasn’t there anymore. My eyes fluttered open to see that his side of the bed was empty. Cold and empty. I sat up and stretched my arms before rolling out of bed.  I picked up my clothes and made my way to the bathroom. After I fixed myself and got dress I got out of his room. I let out a sigh nang hindi ko rin siya makita doon. He probably left already.

I offered myself to him, I offered my love and my body on a platter for his enjoyment  but he ignored me. His rejection won’t stop me. I didn’t care how pathetic I was. I wanted Axel and whatever I wanted, I got. I always did. He was no exception. I would have him by hook or by crook. Hindi ako ganun kadali sumuko lalo na sa mga bagay na gusto ko. This was just a warm up, an appetizer for the main course.

Umalis na ako sa condo niya at sumakay sa taxi pauwi. A few minutes later, the taxi pulled up in front of the house where I was currently staying with my three besties. Kailangan ko na magmadali dahil baka ma late na ako sa trabaho. He might be keeping track of everything I was doing wrong. I didn’t want to give Axel more excuse to fire me.

“Good morning!” I was startled when I heard Amy’s voice as soon as I went in.

“Hi.” I said, closing the door behind me.

“Where did you spend the night?” She nosily asked.

“At… an office mates place?” I bit my lower lip.

She squinted her eyes on me and smiled as if she knew I was hiding something. “Sino’ng office mate yan?”

“Lumakas kasi ang ulan kagabi kaya di na ko nakauwi.” I tried to avoid having to answer her question.

“Who was that office mate?” She pressed, impatiently.

“A-axel…” I whispered, barely audible.

“Axel? As in Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne?” Her eyes widened in shock.

My head slowly moved up and down. She looked at me bewildered.

“Oh ano naman ang meron kay Axel?” Venus came out of the kitchen with a cup in one hand and walked towards us.

“She spent the night with Axel.” Sabi ni Amy.

“Oh my god! Make kwento naman!” Venus pulled me to the couch. We sat there and they both eagerly looked at me, waiting for me to say something.

“Ano’ng nangyari?” Hindi na nakatiis na tanong niya ng hindi pa rin ako magsalita pagkatapos ng ilang segundo.

“We just slept.” I shrugged my shoulder.

“Together?” Amy asked.

I nodded hesitantly. “We slept together on the same bed but nothing happened.” Sino pa ba ang sasabihin ko ng problema ko kung hindi sila din. I felt like I was going to explode if I don’t let this out. “I did everything but he doesn’t want me anymore…”

They didn’t say anything. Matagal nila akong tinitigan na para bang naghihintay pa sila na may sabihin ako. I let out a frustrated sigh. “Okay! Aaminin ko na, I’m in love with him! I’m in love with Axel! Siya ang dahilan kung bakit nagpunta ako dito sa Manila.”

“You can’t fall in love with him.” Trina suddenly popped out of nowhere. “Every girl knows that.”

“Yeah, it’s too risky.” Sabi ni Amy.

“Risky? It’s Pandora’s box. He is pure sin on two legs.” Venus said. “I mean, It’s good to sin once in a while but hang on by a hair. Sin with your eyes open.”

“Great sex is all he’s ever going to give you.” Sabi naman ni Amy.

“Wait, you’ve already had sex with him?” Tanong naman ni Trina.

I reluctantly nodded my head, feeling embarrassed.

“Welcome to club.” Venus said, giggling.

“Oh my god!” Amy’s jaw dropped. “Hindi ka na virgin! I’m so happy for you!”

“Baka naman virgin syndrome. You know, when you feel attached to the person you lost your virginity to.” Sabi naman ni Trina.

“I’m still a virgin.”

Technically. ”

but we’ve done… things.” I sighed again. “I’m sure I’m in love with him. This is not just some syndrome. I’ll make him fall in love with me too.”

“Good luck. You’re going to need lots of it.” Trina chuckled.

“Basta, girl, kapag kailangan mo ng maiiyakan nandito lang kami.” Venus said.

I frowned at them and crossed my arms over my chest. “You should know by now that I always get what I want. Huwag kayong mag-alala iimbitahan ko pa rin kayo sa kasal namin.”

 I love Axel like it was my mission in life. I loved him like it was inevitable, like how many times I was told and shown what an awful idea it was, what a callous asshole he could be… I just couldn’t stop loving him. I’m going to hold on until there’s nothing left to hold on to.

Axel’s POV

I cussed under my breath when I saw Valerie standing right outside of my office. She was the last person I wanted to see right now. Hindi niya alam kung anong klaseng pagpipigil ang ginawa ko kagabi. It was bad enough that she was lying on the same bed a few inches away from me and then she hugged and all hell broke loose. Almost. Damn! It was so hard trying to sleep with blue balls. I didn’t think I slept at all. Nagkunwari lang akong tulog para hindi niya na ako kulitin dahil baka hindi na ako makapagpigil.

“Hi, Ax- I mean, Mr. Lavigne?” She said with a cheeky smile on her face and held up the posy of flowers she was holding on her hand. “This is for you.”

“Itigil mo na ito.” I said through gritted teeth as I was walking. She followed me, walking beside me. “Walang mangyayari sa mga ginagawa mo.”

“Meron.” The stubborn little brat said. “I’ll have you in the end.”

“No, you’re not.” I firmly said, stopping and facing her. My eyes squinted in a glare and she just looked back at me with determined eyes. “Hindi lahat ng gustuhin mo, makukuha mo.”

“But I can try.” She said.

“You can try but I’m telling you now, you won’t succeed.” I scowled at her, losing my cool. “Stop acting like a desperate bitch in heat. Grow the fuck up, Valerie!”

“Hindi naman kita pinipilit na mahalin ako. Hayaan mo lang akong iparamdam sa’yo na mahal kita. Just let me in a little bit.”

“Why would I do that? What makes you think you’re so special? Isa ka lang sa mga babaeng naikama ko. You will never be more than a sex object to me, just like the rest of the girls I’d been with.” I snarled at her.

I watched as the pain bream in her beautiful eyes. She opened her mouth but no words came. Her hesitation gave me enough time to turn and walk away. I knew women like Valerie.  She was an entitled bratty grown child trying to get attention because she didn’t get her way.  She was the type of girl that hadn’t been told “no” and she just couldn’t fucking accept it when someone finally did. That brat wanted me to be her fucking boytoy. Maybe David’s small dick couldn’t fucking satisfy her. She just wanted a cock to scratch her itch.

I wouldn’t let anyone hurt or use me again. Not a fucking chance. I never give any woman the slightest chance to get close to me. I always walk away before anyone could walk away from me. Nobody fucking leaves me. I’m the only one who’s allowed to leave.

Valerie’s POV

Hindi pa rin ako tumigil sa ‘panliligaw’ kay Axel. Kahapon nag-iwan ako ng isang box ng chocolate para sa kanya na may kasamang note na may nakasulat na ‘ I love you’ . At ngayon naman nag-iwan ako ng isang box ng cupake na ginawa ko. And yes, it did come with a note that says ‘I love you’. I had nothing more to lose. I’d already lost everything I could lose. And if there was anything to lose then I’d gladly give it all away.

I was in love with Axel and I couldn’t let him go without putting up a good fight. If I tried hard enough he could learn to love me too. I just had to show him that I really loved him.

“Pupunta ka ba sa Christmas party?” I snapped back from my thoughts when I heard Nichole’s voice.

Nichole, Cooper and I were walking on the hallway. Kagagaling lang namin sa cafeteria at pabalik na kami sa office. I sighed. Hindi ko na naman nakita si Axel. I hadn’t seen him for days and I was missing him so bad.

“Christmas party?” I asked.

“Oo, taon-taon may Christmas party ang kumpanya.” Sagot ni Cooper.

“Pupunta ba si Mr. Lavigne?” Tanong ko.

Nagkibit balikat si Cooper. “Hindi siguro. Sa ilang taon kong pagtatrabaho dito, kahit kailan naman hindi ko siya nakitang umattend sa Christmas party.”

“Syempre, hindi naman yun makikihalubilo sa atin, no!” Natatawang sabi Nichole. Then she playfully bumped her shoulder to mine. “Ano? Pupunta ka?”

  “I don’t know.” I answered.

“Pumunta ka na.” She said with a sneaky smile. “You have to be there!”

“Why?” Tanong ko.

“Do you remember Eli, the cute guy from the HR department?” Sabi ni Nichole. I had met him twice. He was cute in a boyish way and he seemed like a funny and cool guy. But he never really crossed my mind after those two times that I had met him.

“Yeah…” I said with brows curiously furrowed.   

“Well, sabi sa akin ni Cathy may gusto daw sa’yo si Aaron.” Nichole squealed. “He’s planning to ask you out on a date at the Christmas party.”

“Oh… I don’t know.” I shook my head. I wasn’t interested in other guys at all. I only had my eyes on one man and that was Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne. Kung sinabi nilang puunta siya doon, hindi ako magdadalawang isip na pumunta sa Christmas party.

“Come on, Valerie. He’s not a bad catch.” Nichole rolled her eyes. “Matagal ko ng kilala si Aaron. He’s a great guy.”

“Ms. Zamora.” I heard that familiar voice that made my spine tingle from behind us. My heart raced as I turned around to face him and his dark eyes greeted me with their usual coldness.  My brows rose in surprise.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Lavigne!” Natatarantang bati ni Cooper. He gave him a slight nod to acknowledge his greeting before glancing back at me. His brooding dark eyes narrowed in at me.

“May I have a word with you?” He sounded very professional, slighlty irritated too.

“S-sure.” Sagot ko.

“Follow me.” He said, turning his back to me and walking away. I followed him just like he told me and easily caught up with him. I walked next to him. “Ayoko na ng nagbibigay ka sa akin ng kung anu-ano.”

“Wala naman masama doon. I’m not expecting you to give me anything in return.”

Just a little of you.

“I don’t want any of those.” He said, his jaw clenching.

“Then what do you want?” 

“I want you to leave me alone. “Mariin na sabi niya.

“Hilingin mo na sa akin ang lahat, huwag lang yan. I’m not going to give you up or give up loving you.” I said, trying so hard not to let my voice quiver.

“You can go now.” He said, dismissively.

“Kailangan natin mag-usap.” I said.

“Go back to your work.” His voice was harsher.

“What do you want me to do, beg? Because I will, you know. Just please don’t ignore me when we need to talk.”

  “Wala akong panahon para sa kaartehan mo, Valerie.”  He said in a low growl. Axel stopped in front of the elevator and pressed the up button. The elevator door immediately opened and he stepped in. Just like he always do, he left me.

Axel’s POV

I didn’t have anything better to do tonight so I thought I’d go to the Christmas party the company threw for our employees. I’d never really gone to any of company’s party so I decided to check it out. The party was held at a nearby five star hotel. Even though I didn’t want to admit it, I knew I only came there because of Valerie. Siya ang pinunta ko dito. I overheard them talking about the cute fucking HR department guy that wanted to ask her out. The brat had only been working in my company for no more than a month and she was probably already flirting with half of my male employees.

I made my way to the hall where the party was at.

“Mr. Lavigne!” Gulat na sabi ng isang lalaki na nakasalubong ko papasok. “Good evening po, Mr. Lavigne.”

“Good evening.” I formally greeted as my eyes scanned around the room. Everyone who saw stared at me as if I was fuckin’ alien or freak show as I walked in. Lahat sila parang gulat na makita ako doon. To hell with the,

“Sir!” Cindy said when I bumped into her. “Nandito ka pala! Hindi kami na inform na darating ka. I’m glad to see you here.”

“Have you seen Valerie?” I asked as my eyes, roamed around the room.

“Si Valerie? Nakita ko siya kanina na kasama ang mga kaibigan niya.” Sagot ni Cindy. ”Hindi ko lang alam kung nasaan siya ngayon. Bakit, sir?”

I shook my head because even I didn’t know what the fuck I was doing here. What was I going to do here? Babysit a fuckin’ brat? Well, she was my responsibility after all, I tried to tell myself. Bago pa lumapit sa akin si Valerie, ibinilin na siya sa akin ni Jaime. Tinawagan ako ni Jaime ng pumunta sa Maynila sa Valerie at sinabi niya sa akin na ako na daw muna ang bahala sa anak niya. Ako lang daw kasi ang may kayang mapasunod siya. Even Tristan doesn’t know how to handle her. I couldn’t say no to the old man even if I wanted. Tinanggap niya ako sa hacienda nila at walang rason para hindi ko rin tanggapin sa kumpanya si Valerie.

Iniwan ko si Cindy para hanapin si Valerie. I found her standing by the cocktail table with her two friends that I always see her with and an unfamiliar man with curly short hair and glasses. She was wearing a modest little black dress and her hair was tied up in a messy bun. She looked stunning even with little makeup on. The guy next to her, Was that Aaron, ‘the cute fuckin’ guy from the HR department’ that they were talking about? I could see by the way the idiot looked at Valerie that he really liked her. He was staring at her attentively as if she was the only girl he could see as she talks. I clenched my fists, trying to control my annoyance.

I eyes him from head to toe. They call that cute? I sneered quietly and shook my head. Not even fuckin close. My eyes went back to Valerie. What should I do? Should I come up to her? Kapag lumapit naman ako ano ang sasabihin ko? I would just look like a fool.

Pinanood ko habang nakikipagtawanan siya sa lalaki. I wondered what they were talking about. After awhile, I saw him wrap his arm around the back of her waist. That I couldn’t fuckin take. Hindi ko na napigilan ang lumapit sa kanila.

“Hi.” Sabi ko pagkalapit ko. Tumingin silang lahat sa akin. Bakas ang pagkagulat sa mukha ni Valerie. The brat was caught stealing a cookie from the cookie jar.

“Hello po, Mr. Lavigne.” One of her female friend said. I politely greeted her back before turning my attention to Valere. “May I have a dance with you?”

“Yes, of course.” Valerie answered with a huge smile on her face. Kinuha ko siya mula sa lalaking kasama niya. I glanced at the guy who she was with and there was a disappointed look on his face as I took her from him. One corner of my lips lifted in a smirk.

Dinala ko si Valerie sa dance floor. I wrapped her arms around my neck and I wrapped mines around her waist.

“Hindi ko alam na pupunta ka pala dito. Sabi kasi nila hindi ka pupunta sa mga party ng kumpanya.”  She said smiling like an innocent, wide-eyed girl.

I threw her a sharp glare. “Who was that guy you were with?”

Nawala ang ngiti niya sa labi. “Si Aaron… kaibigan n

ila Nicole.“

“Your flavor of the week?” I cocked a brow at her.

“What are you talking about?”

“Hindi mo ba talaga kayang makuntento sa isang lalaki? Sino naman ang susunod?”

“Mali ang iniisip mo, Axel…”

“Sino naman ang susunod?”

“Kaibigan nila Nicole si Aaron.”

“And you’re flirting with him because you know he likes you.” My eyes narrowed at her.

“I’m not flirting with him.” She said in a low but stern voice.

“You are like a bitch in heat that can’t get enough. You just can’t be satisfied with one man, can you?” I snarled.

“Damn you!” Tinanggal niya ang mga bisig niya sa leeg ko. She gave me a soft punch on the chest before walking away.

“Valerie!” I ran after her but she was far ahead of me until she vanished through the crowd. Nang makita muli siya, paakyat na siya sa hagdan papunta sa backstage. Sumunod ako sa kanya doon. It was dark in the backstage area and there were nothing there but old chairs and tables. Damn! This reminded me of the time she embarrassed me in front of the crowd at Wayne’s club.

“Valerie!” Tawag ko sa kanya. Still no answer.

A small light flicked open from the old floor lampshade. I saw Valerie sitting on one of the tables with her legs crossed. The expression on her face was unreadable as she looked at me. Dahan-dahan akong lumapit sa kanya at huminto sa harap niya.

“Why did you follow me?” She asked in a cold tone.

I took a deep breath. “I’m sorry, okay?”

“Why don’t you show me how sorry you are?” She asked, her hands reaching up the button of my shirt.

“Is this one of your sick joke again, Val?” I asked in a sharp tone.

She shook her head. “Oh no, Mr. Lavigne… Do you want me to go first?” She teasingly asked. Hindi ako kumibo. I just looked at her. Tinanggal niya ang itim na dress na suot niya. Now she was only wearing a pair of pink laced bra and tiny panties. I swallowed, working some moisture back into my dry mouth. Was she a fuckin tease… 

I watched as she reached behind her, unhook her bra and let it fall to the ground then she stood up and slowly slid her panties down her mile long legs while keeping her eyes on mine. She stood in front of me completely naked. 

“Hindi mo ako madadaan d’yan, Valerie. Put on your clothes.” I commanded her.

“Are you telling me you’re not turned on? That if I touch your shaft and stroke it you wouldn’t get hard?” She asked in the most seductive voice. Her hands reached down to the button of my pants and she unbuttoned it. I was burning and slowly being consumed by the heat inside of me. She pulled my pants down along with my boxers and took my shaft in her hands. She started stroking it up and down while looking into my eyes. Slowly at first…

“Val, oh God, Val!”  I groaned, my hand going up to her breast. I cupped it and played with it for awhile before my hot mouth went down to her hard pink nipple. I took it in and started suckling on it. I was rewarded with a soft moan escaping her lips. Her hand stroked me even faster as I sucked her breast even harder. My hand went down her belly making its way further down until I was touching her wet slit. She shivered and her hips jerked.

“I want you, Axel.” She whispered between her moans.

I stopped suckling on her breast and leveled my head to her. Our faces only inches apart. “Do you want me to fuck you?”

“Y-yes…” She weakly said as I slipped a finger inside her. She was fuckin tight. And then I withdrew my finger. 

“Then kiss my dick. Kiss it before it fucks you.” I said in a hoarse voice. She knelt down in front of me and pressed her lips to the tip of it. She gave light kisses from the tip down to the length. She went back to the tip and took it in her mouth. I let out a groan when I felt her hot, wet mouth around my shaft.

“Enough.” I said, pulling her up by her arm. I didn’t want to finish early. I wanted to come inside her. I bent her over the table and slid my dick up and down her slit.

My fingers went down to her slit and wet it with her juice. And then I circled the rim of her asshole with it, testing her receptiveness. I pushed a finger inside and another one. She whimpered when I started moving it. Pushing and withdrawing. I took it out when I could feel that she was ready.

“Ready?” I asked her as I positioned myself behind her.

“I’m all yours, Axel.” She moaned and with that, I pushed myself inside her.

“You better be.” I whispered to her ear.

I wanted her in ways no one has ever had or will ever have her.

My hand went in front of her and I started massaging her clit as I pushed deeper until I was all the way in. I could feel her tightness around me, her warmth. Damn! It felt so good, so warm. He tightness wrapped around me, squeezing it tightly. I started massaging her even faster so she wouldn’t feel any pain as I slowly moved. I was very careful not to her hurt. After awhile, I felt her getting used to me. I started moving faster and faster. I slipped a finger in her pussy and my thumb massaged her clit while I was fucking her ass. It didn’t take long for her to begin to enjoy it. I knew because she started thrusting her hips, meeting my thrust.

“Axel…” She cried . “Mmm… I’m going to… come…”

“Me too, baby.” I moaned. “Wait for me.”

A few more thrust and I was already at the peak of my climax. “Val baby, come for me.”

“Oh yes, yes… I’ll come for you, Axel.” She moaned.

I let my warm liquid gush into her, filling her up. Her body spasmed under me as she said my name over and over again as I felt her tightening around my finger. I pulled out of her, when I looked down I saw my come trailing down her leg, the sight almost setting me off again

I pulled my pants and boxers up. She picked up her clothes and started putting them on and that was when I left her. Lumabas ako sa stage at nakihalubilo sa ibang mga empleyado. While I was talking to one of my employees, I saw her across the room.

We gazed at each other for awhile and a smile spread across my lips as I remembered what had happened in the backstage just a few minutes ago. Damn! I loved the idea of her walking around full of my seed. Her body carrying around apart of me.

Kinabukasan, balik trabaho na naman. I sat down on my swivel chair behind my desk like any ordinary day. A black USB sitting on my desk caught my attention. It had under it a note that says ’ Watch this’. Ikinabit ko iyon sa computer. A video started playing. It was dark at first. Biglang bumukas ang ilaw at nakita ko si Valerie sa video na nakaupo sa ibabaw ng mesa. Nanlamig ang buong katawan ko ng makita ko ang lugar. It was in the backstage.

Sunod-sunod akong napamura habang pinanonood iyon. Lahat ng ginawa namin ni Valerie, everything was caught in the video. Nang matapos iyon ay may lumabas na text sa black screen ng video.

Kung ayaw mong ikalat ko ang video makikipagkita ka sa akin mamayang gabi, 7pm at Aubergin restaurant.

I couldn’t fuckin’ believe this. This couldn’t be fuckin’ real.

Chapter Twenty Two

Axel’s POV

I parked my car in front of Aubergine and got out of it. My heart felt like it was slamming against my ribs as I walked towards the restaurant. Kanina pa ako hindi mapakali sa opisina kakaisip kung sino ang kumuha ng video na iyon. I was more worried for Valerie than I was for myself. Kapag kumalat ang video siya ang mas maapektuhan. Everybody had already seen my nude photos so it wouldn’t be much of a big deal for me. Pero si Valerie… fuck! I couldn’t stand the thought of other people seeing her in all her glory. I wouldn’t give a single fuck if she wasn’t involved.  

A receptionist greeted me as soon as I got in. I gave her my name and she escorted me to a table in the corner of the room. A familiar figure of a woman was already seated with her back to me. Kahit hindi ko pa nakikita ang mukha niya, alam ko na kung sino iyon sa hugis ng katawan niya. Never could I forget the curves of her body. What the hell was she doing here? Dahan-dahan akong lumapit sa mesa. She quietly watched as I pulled out the chair across from her and sat.

“Axel…” Mahinang sabi niya.

“Pinadalhan ka din ba ng video?” I asked, trying to hide my concern. “Huwag kang mag-alala gagawa ako ng paraan. I’ll fix this shit,”

“I was the one who sent you the video.” She said in a small voice, avoiding my gaze.

“What?” I growled in outrage as I clenched my hand into a fist and slammed it on the table. I knew it! Pinaglaruan na naman ako ng brat na ito! I knew she was up to something! Tumaas-baba ang dibdib ko sa sobrang galit. I couldn’t fucking focus on my work earlier because of that goddamn video. Nag-alala ako para sa kanya pero malalaman kong siya rin pala ang may gawa nun. Laro lang ito sa kanya. She probably went home giggling and gossip about me with her friends after what happened at the party.  

Her eyes widened in surprise. She tensed, startled. “A-axel…”

“Is this one of your pranks again?” I asked through gritted teeth. “This isn’t funny, Valerie.”

“I want you, Axel.” Her voice was soft but firm with determination. “If this is the only way I could have you then be it.”

“What are you going to do? Ikakalat mo ang video?” My lips curled in a sarcastic sneer.

“Yes.” Agad na sagot niya.

I stared at her face for a few moment. She silently stared back at me with a stern expression. She wasn’t kidding, she was dead serious. My sneer slowly turned into a scowl. “Nandoon ka din sa video. Ano’ng gagawin mo? You’re going to blur yourself out?” I shook my head in exasperation. “Go ahead, Valerie. Feel free. Hindi mo ako matatakot.”

“Hindi ka natatakot?” Her brows arched a threat. “Hindi ba matagal na kayong magkaibigan ni Tristan? Ano na lang ang sasabihin niya kapag nakita niya ang video natin? Do you think he and dad would like it?”

“You brat…” My eyes narrowed at her. “What the hell are you planning to do?”

“Exactly what I told you I would do.” Sabi niya. “Ikakalat ko ang video natin. And don’t worry, I won’t blur myself out.”

“Hindi mo magagawa iyon.” I said as I glared at her.

“Magagawa ko at gagawin ko kapag hindi ka sumunod sa mga gusto ko.” She said in a serious and somber manner.

“This isn’t a fucking joke, Valerie!” I scowled. “Don’t be fuckin’ stupid. You’re in that video too.” I felt drained of all my energy so I had to lean back to my seat. I combed my fingers through my hair in frustration. “Think of what other people would say when they see you in that video. Lalaki ako, Valerie. Walang mawawala sa akin.”

“I don’t care about what other people will say. Isipin mo na lang kung ano ang sasabihin ni Tristan. You and him have been friends for quite a long time, right? What would he do when he finds out you fucked his little sister? Sigurado akong maapektuhan ang pagkakaibigan niyo. At si Dad, hindi ba sabi mo ipinagkatiwala niya ako sa’yo?  Ano kaya ang magiging reaksyon niya kapag nalaman niya na ang taong pinagkakatiwalaan ang siya pang gagawa sa akin nun?”

“This is insane.” I muttered angrily. What had I gotten myself into? Guilt suddenly flooded me. Hindi mangyayari ito kung hindi ko pinakialaman si Valerie. She was my best friend’s sister. Kinalimutan ko ang pagkakaibigan namin, all for a fucking snatch. Jaime trusted me with his daughter. Not it was all backfiring on me. They would both kill me if they see the video. Ayaw kong masira ang pagkakaibigan namin ni Tristan, he was like a brother to me. And Jaime hhad been nothing but good to me. Ayaw ko rin masira ang tiwala niya sa akin.

“I could tell them you took advantage of me. I could tell them that you threatened to fire me if I didn’t have sex with you.”

“Ano ba ang gusto mo?” I asked in a thick voice, my jaw clenching.

“I want to live with you.” Her voice slightly trembled. “Subukan lang natin. I want to show you how much I love you and I can’t do that if you keep pushing me away.”

Love? The mere word made me want to laugh. Love doesn’t fucking exist. It’s complete bullshit. No one ever loves anyone. It’s just horniness and when you find someone who makes you horny you stay with that person and people call it love. Just like how we feel for each other. She makes my dick hard and I make her panties wet.

“And if this doesn’t work out in the end titigilan na kita. Hindi na kita guguluhin.“ She added.  

  “You’re being ridiculous.”  I scoffed. 

“Pumapayag ka na ba sa gusto ko?” Valerie asked.

Valerie’s POV

In all my life, I’ve never known what it meant to desperately want something. Not until Axel. If there’s one thing my dad had taught me, it was that I shouldn’t settle for no when it was something I really wanted.

Noong gabi ng party, habang nagsasayaw kami nabuo ang ideya sa isip ko. Alam kong susunod siya sa akin kaya tumakbo ako papunta sa backstage. Habang mag-isa ako doon, I set up my phone to record and waited for him. I knew it was a desperate move pero ito na lang ang naisip kong paraan.

I looked at him, waiting for his answer as I tried my best to remain composed. The silence between us felt heavy. I couldn’t read him, his perfectly controlled demeanor giving nothing away. But his eyes, his eyes were intense like they always were. Rich, deep and so dark, turning me into a puddle everytime he looks at me. My heart was thumping wildly in my chest the moment I saw him but I tried to hide my nervousness.

“Okay, you win.” He finally spoke with a sigh. “Pumapayag na ako. Paano ko naman masisigurong tutupad ka sa usapan?”

“You have my word, Axel.” I answered.

I tried hard to hold back my smile but I just counldn’t. Nanalo din ako sa kanya. I’m going to show him that I was his. And maybe if I get lucky, he’d finally be mine. He’ll be loving me and I’ll be loving him and everything will be how it should be.

“Pero kung akala mo sa ginagawa mong ito mahuhulog ang loob ko sa’yo, nagkakamali ka.” He said in a dark tone, obviously pissed off. “You’re only going to make me hate you.”

What he said made my chest tightened up but I quickly brushed it off. 

“I’m not going to force you to love me. I’m not going to demand anything you don’t want to give.” I said.

Pagkatapos namin kumain sa restaurant ay hinatid niya ako sa tinutuluyan ko para kunin ang mga gamit ko. Axel waited for me in his car while I get my things. Nagpaalam ako sa mga kaibigan ko at sinabi ko sa kanila na lilipat ako sa condo ni Tristan. They’re my bestfriends but there were just things that i couldn’t share with them right now. 

Bumalik ako sa kotse ni Axel na dala-dala ang mga gamit ko. His car was parked a few blocks away para hindi makita nila Amy.

Wala siyang kibo habang nagdadrive. The drive was quiet and I could feel his coldness. Hindi magiging madali pero alam kong hindi imposibleng mahalin niya rin ako.

Chapter Twenty Three

Valerie’s POV

I was done unpacking ang putting my clothes in the closet. This was now my new home. I should be happy that I was finally with Axel but the sudden realization of this whole situation sank into me. I didn’t know what to expect from Axel. Mula ng umalis kami galing sa restaurant he never uttered a single word. He never showed anything other than icy indifference. His room was as masculine as he was, done in black and white with a muted gray colored scheme. Heavy, dark mahogany furnitures sat like sentinels against the walls. A black four post queen sized bed with a gray and dark blue comforter draped over it. His delicious scent lingered in the room, making me miss him. I let out a frustrated sigh. Siya na lang ang kulang.  

I felt my heart constricting painfully. Nasa iisang bubong na nga kami, iniiwasan pa rin niya ako. Alam kong mali ang ginawa kong i-blackmail siya pero ito na lang ang naisip kong paraan para mapalapit sa kanya. But what if what I did would just draw him further away from me? What if all these backfires on me? I can’t let that happen. I would do everything to win his love, no matter what it takes. I would love him so hard he would have no choice but to love me back.   

Magmamadaling araw na pero hindi pa rin pumapasok si Axel sa kwarto. I had already taken a bath and finished a movie and I still hadn’t seen him. Isa lang ang bedroom dito sa unit niya kaya wala na siyang matutulugan kung hindi sa tabi ko.  Maliban na lang kung natulog siya sa couch sa living room o hindi kaya umalis siya sa condo. There was no way I will sleep alone tonight. Nasa akin ang alas. Hindi ko hahayaan na siya ang masunod. I quickly got out from the bed to check on him. Lumabas ako ng kwarto pero hindi ko din siya nakita sa living room. I saw a light pass by  the crack of the door on the left of the living room, just right across the bedroom. Lumapit ako doon at binuksan ang pinto.

Axel was sitting in front of the desk in the middle of the room with his eyes fixed on the computer. Lumapit ako sa kinauupuan niya at huminto sa harap niya. He paused to look up at me with his broodingly dark eyes, his eyes raking over me in a way that makes certain parts tingle.

“Ano’ng ginagawa mo dito?”  He coldly asked as his eyes narrowed at me.

I licked my lips and bit the bottom of it, slightly intimidated by his hostility. “Hindi ka pa ba matutulog?”

“Marami pa kong ginagawa.” Sabi niya bago ibinalik ang atensyon sa screen sa harap niya.

“Gabi na at maaga pa ang pasok natin sa trabaho bukas.” I said.

“Hindi ka ba nakakaintindi? Marami pa akong ginagawa!” He raised his voice in an angered demeanor. “Will you just fucking leave me alone? Nasunod na ang gusto mo, hindi ba? Bakit pati oras ng pagtulog ko kailangan mo pang pakialaman?”

I flinched in surprise, I was both taken aback and a bit scared. I never had anyone shout at me and I had never seen him this angry. But I was quick to compose myself. No one had ever shouted at me like that! Sumosobra na ang lalaking ito. I had been nothing but patient and docile to him, which was totally the opposite of me, at ito pa ang makukuha ko mula sa kanya. The bitchy part of me was screaming to be let out.  I’ll show him!

I flawlessly walked behind him like a model in a catwalk with my chin held high. Placing my hands on both his shoulders, I leaned down and brought my lips to his ear. “Unfortunately for you, I’m in control here. Not you.” I said in a mocking tone. My hands started rubbing his shoulders. “I’ll give you ten minutes. Hihintayin kita sa kwarto.” I whispered before gently biting his earlobe, my lips traveled to hi. Narinig ko ang mahinang pagsinghap niya and a sly smile crossed my lips. I nuzzled his jaw and pressed soft kisses to his cheek. “Ten minutes, Mr. Lavigne.”

Pagkatapos ay lumabas na ako sa library at bumalik sa kwarto. Wala pang sampung minuto nang sumunod siya sa akin. He went straight to the bathroom and then I heard the shower running. I snickered to myself.

I have you under my control now, Axel.

Maya-maya ay bumukas ang pinto ng banyo at lumabas siya mula doon, wearing nothing but a pristine white towel around his waist. He looked firmly at me with his dagger eyes as if he wanted to eat me whole. Tinanggal niya ang natitirang saplot sa katawan niya. My eyes went down to his thing. Even when not excited, he was still huge.

“Like what you’re seeing?” He asked with a taunting smirk as if saying ’You’re not going to get it tonight ’. My cheeks heat up as I took my gaze away from it. That thing… I had held it, stroked it, it even went inside me but here I was, blushing like a virgin. Wait, virgin pa rin naman ako. Technically speaking.

Humiga siya sa tabi ko at tumalikod agad sa akin. Tandaan mo, Valerie, you’re the boss here. Nasa iyo ang alas. Umusog ang palapit sa kanya at inilapit ko ang mga labi ko sa tainga niya.

“I don’t want you to turn your back to me.”  I said.

He let out an annoyed groan. “Will you just let me sleep?”

“I will, kung haharap ka sa akin.” Sagot ko.

He huffed before shifting and lying on his back. I cuddled up to his side and rested my head on his chest and wrapped his arm around me. His natural scent mixed with aftershave was drugging my senses. I wondered if I could be any closer to him. I nuzzled my face on his neck and inhaled his scent. This was where I belong, in his arms. I didn’t need anything else because everything was perfect. At least that’s what I’d like to think.

Ang sarap magkunwaring nasa tabi ko siya ngayon dahil gusto niya. We were now living under the same roof, sleeping in the same bed next to each other. Kahit sa isip ko lang, kahit sa ilusyon ko lang… ang sarap isipin na mahal niya din ako.

“Axel?” I called him, running my fingers on his bare chest. I lifted my head to see that his eyes were already closed.

An exasperated low growl escaped his lips.

“Where’s my goodnight kiss?” Malambing na sabi ko.

His eyes slowly opened, magkasalubong ang mga kilay na tinitigan niya ako. “Abuso ka na, Val. Matulog ka na nga.”

“Isang kiss lang.”

“Valerie!” He scoffed.

I puckered my lips to him. He sighed before pressing his lips to mine, giving me a soft and quick kiss.

“Thank you, Mr. Lavigne.” I said with a smile.

“Go to sleep.” He answered.

“I love you.” I layed my head back to his chest and cuddled tighter to him.

Axel’s POV

After just laying here for a few minutes, I could tell by her breathing that she was now asleep. This brat just wouldn’t give up until she got what she wanted.

She was killing me slowly, and fuck she doesn’t even know it.

Her beautiful scent, her warmth, her arms around me, her skin touching mine. She was killing me. She has no idea what she does to me.

I shouldn’t be enjoying this. Dapat magalit ako sa kanya dahil sa ginawa niya pero ngayon nasa tabi ko siya, hindi ko magawang magalit. I liked the feeling of having her this close to me. I liked the fact that she was now living with me. Now I don’t have to wonder where she goes after work, or what she’s doing or who she’s with. Ngayong dito na siya nakatira mababantayan ko na siya mabuti katulad ng ipinangako ko kay Jaime.

Boning his daughter isn’t a part a part of it. Sabi ng isang banda ng isip ko.

She was in my care and I was just going to  take care of her. There wouldn’t be any boning involved. Ang nangyari sa party, iyon na ang huling beses.

Dahan-dahan kong tinanggal ang isang kamay niyang nakapulupot sa akin. The motion caused her to moan and clump her legs shut around one of mine. Fire shot through my veins as I felt her crotch pressed against me.

FUCK ME.

I stayed still as I tried to think of a way to get away from her without waking her up. Inangat ko ang ulo ko. I tried to gently slide away from her but…

“Mmm, Axel.” She moaned in her sleep, nuzzling her face even deeper into my neck and her arm around my torso clamped down harder. I closed my eyes as I dropped my head back onto the pillow and groaned quietly. She was dreaming about me.

I cursed to myself when I realized I was in for a long, sleepless night. I closed my eyes, trying to ignore the heat radiating from her against my skin and how it felt so good to have her this close to me. 

“Axel…” I heard Valerie’s voice whispering in my ear.

I grumbled in response, unable to open my heavy eyes. She slightly shook my shoulder. “Axel, wake up.”

“Leave me alone…” Inis na sabi ko bago ko tinakip sa ulo ko ang unang unan na mahagip ng kamay ko. 

“Ano’ng oras na, baka malate na tayo kapag hindi ka tumayo d’yan.” Valerie said as I felt her ran her fingers through my hair.

My eyes slowly opened to see her smiling at me. “Good morning.”

Waking up to her and her face being the first face I see in the morning made me feel oddly warm inside. I could get used to this easily.

But I shouldn’t.

I ignored her and got up from bed heading striaght to the bathroom. I did what I do everyday. I took a nice shower, getting rid of Valerie’s sweet scent on me. I didn’t know how I could get through this, sleeping beside her in the same bed every night and knowing that I had to restrain myself.

Nang makalabas ako mula sa banyo nakita ko si Valerie na galing sa closet at may hawak na dalawang button down shirt.  

“Inayos ko na ang mga susuotin mo.” She said as she carefully layed down the shirts on the bed with a silver coat and a pair of trousers.  “Tinitignan ko lang kung mas bagay itong blue shirt sa suit mo o yung white na lang.” Sabi niya habang tinitignan ang mga iyon. She turned her head to me.  “Maganda naman yung white pero palagi na lang kitang nakikitang naka-white na shirt. Bagay din naman ang blue. Ano sa tingin mo?”

“It doesn’t matter.” I said, nonchalantly. 

I took off the towel that was wrapped around my waist. She looked at me with the same look she had last night, her lips slowly parting and her eyes widening. I wanted to laugh everytime she does that face.

She watched me put on my underwear and trousers as if she was watching a movie. And was she enjoying it. Nang masuot ko na ang trouser ko lumapit siya sa akin na hawak ang asul na button down shirt .

“Let me put this on you.” Sabi niya.

I just shrugged my shoulders. Ipinasok niya ang isang manggas nito sa isang braso ko at ganun din ang ginawa niya sa kabila. Then she went in front of me and buttoned my shirt. I felt like a king being served and pampered. Pinanood ko si Valerie habang abala siya sa pagbubutones ng damit ko.

Itong babae sa harap ko na sanay na pinagsisilbihan siya ay siya rin babaeng nagsisilbi sa akin ngayon. I couldn’t believe that the hard-headed and defiant brat could be this submissive. She smoothed down some wrinkles on my shirt with her hands before looking up at me and smiling. It had always drawn me in. Nag-iwas ako ng tingin at aalis na ng pigilan niya ako.

“Teka, yung tie mo pa.” Sabi niya bago pa ako makaalis. She took a dark blue silk tie and staIrted putting it on me.

“Marunong ka ba?” I asked with brows furrowed.

She nodded. “Ako ang nagsusuot ng tie ni daddy dati.”

“I see.” Simpleng sabi ko.

“O, ’yan. Okay na.” She said, smoothening it.

Kinuha ko ang coat ko mula sa ibabaw ng kama. I hanged it on my arm and walked to the door. Pagbukas ko ng pinto, the smell of something delicious filled my nose. I followed the smell which lead me to the dining room. Nakita ko ang mga nakahaing pagkain doon. Ometette, bacon, sausage, pancake.

“Nagluto na ako ng breakfast.” Narinig kong sabi ni Valerie mula sa likod ko.  “Kumain na tayo.” 

“I don’t eat breakfast.” I said in a stoic tone. 

“Kaya pala palagi kang nakasimangot sa tuwing magkikita tayo sa opisina.” She chuckled and took my hand. “Umupo ka muna dito.” She said as she pushed me down on one of the dining chairs.

“Ano bang gusto mong inumin? Coffee, tea, or… or orange juice?” She asked.

“Coffee, please.” Sabi ko. “One teasepoon of sugar and no cream.”

She nodded her head and went to the kitchen. Pagbalik niya may dala na siyang isang baso ng kape. Inilapag niya iyon sa harap ko at umupo sa silya sa tabi ko.

I took a sip of my coffee.

“Okay na ba ang timpla?” She asked.

“It’s alright.” I answered.

“Subukan mo naman itong pancake na niluto ko. At saka itong omelette.” Sabi niya habang nilalagyan ang plato ko.

“Val, it’s okay. I don’t eat breakfast. It’s just coffee for me.” I said, trying to sound annoyed.

“Kahit ilang subo lang, Axel. Tikman mo lang itong mga niluto ko. Sayang naman ang kung hindi mo kakainin.” She pouted. She cut a tiny piece of omelette the a fork and lifted it up to my mouth.

“I didn’t ask you to make breakfast.” Inilayo ko ang ulo ko.

Her pout suddenly turned into a frown. “I woke up early to cook for you. Natalsik-talsikan pa ako ng mantika tapos hindi mo kakain ito. “

I sighed, not wanting to argue with her so early in the morning because of something petty as this. She finally smiled when I opened my mouth at isinubo niya sa akin iyon.

“Masarap ba?” She eagerly asked.

Kibit balikat lang ang isinagot ko. It wasn’t bad. It was quite good actually. I couldn’t imagine her cooking breakfast for me. Alam kong sanay si Valerie na siya ang pinagsisilbihan. She was the life of the party, a carefree and an irresponsible brat. Pero ito siya ngayon, pinagsisilbihan ako. Maybe having her here wasn’t such a bad thing after all.

I thought she was the same as… I shook my head, let’s not even fucking go there.

---

Author’s note

Sorry sa matagal na update. Nasira kasi ang laptop ko pero okay na ngayon. Hindi ko maipapangako pero susubukan ko talagang mag-update ng madalas. Sorry talaga guys. Thank you for putting up with my slow updates. :*

Chapter Twenty Four

Axel’s POV

“Bye, Mr. Lavigne. See you later.” Valerie said before giving me a kiss on the cheek.  “I love you.”

“Bumaba ka na, baka may makakita pa sa’yo.” I said in an even voice.

She opened the car door and got out. She waved at me before turning around, I watched her head to the building’s entrance and only drove off when she finally got inside. Araw-araw siyang sumasabay sa akin papunta sa trabaho. I drop her off in front of the building and drive to the parking lot to park my car. I didn’t want anyone to see us together. Mapapagusapan kami kung palaging makikita ng empleyado ko na kasabay kong pumasok at umuwi si Valerie. Tristan and Jaime would fucking kill me if they find out that we were living together. At work, she was just an employee. Outside, I don’t know…  

 It had been a week since she moved in with me. The whole house always smells of vanilla and peach. My bathroom cabinet was filled with her beauty products. There were pink fluffy pillows on my bed and pink things scattered all over our room. She takes too long in the shower and putting on makeup. She tortures me with watching those stupid shows like Keeping up with the Kardashians in our room before we sleep.  She likes to sleep with a nightlight on while I don’t. Marami pa kaming hindi mapagkasunduan ni Valerie. But despite all that, I have to admit, I like having her around.

I like going to sleep at night with her next to me and waking up to see her right there. I have learned to appreciate the smell of her vanilla scented perfume. Siya ang nagluluto ng breakfast at dinner. Siya ang nag-aayos ng susuotin ko tuwing umaga. She made my place feel, I don’t know, homey.

Hindi na din ako lumalabas at pumupunta sa mga club katulad ng dati pagkagaling sa trabaho. Hindi dahil sa pinipigilan niya ako.  All of a sudden a quiet night cuddled up next to her while she watches those stupid fucking tv shows were more appealing than drinking booze and making out with random women at a club.  Feeling the warmth of her body against mine was more satisfying than having myself buried in another woman’s pussy or mouth.  There were no sex involved between me and Val, be it oral, anal or vaginal. It wasn’t something I was used to. Women to me were only there for sex, and sex only. And what was happening between us… it was a territory that I had vowed never to explore.  

I didn’t want any form of intimicy with her. Pero iyon ang nangyayari.  I needed to stick to my guns. I would never fucking want or need a woman for anything other than sex. I couldn’t take the chance of getting emotionally close to Valerie. I couldn’t let that happen.

Valerie’s POV

It was already seven in the evening. I turned off my computer and leaned back to my seat. Tapos na ako sa trabaho ko which means magkikita na ulit kami ni Axel. Just as I was stretching my arms, my phone suddenly rang. A wide smile spread over my lips when I saw Axel’s name on the screen.

“Axel.” Nakangiting sabi ko ng sagutin ko iyon.

“Huwag mo na akong hintayin. Mauna ka ng umuwi. I called a chauffeur to drive you home. Hinihintay ka na niya sa labas.” Axel said. Before I could even open my mouth to say something, he hung up the phone.

I let out a deep sigh. My relationship with Axel only progressed in tiny increments. Sure, he let things go my way but he was still distant and cold. Kahit nasusunod ang lahat ng gusto ko, he never let that invisible wall between us fall.  Kahit ano’ng lambing ang gawin ko sa kanya parang wala pa rin sa kanya. Kahit katabi ko siya matulog, kahit palagi akong nakadikit at nakayakap sa kanya I never got any response from him. It was as if I was always cuddling a rock.

Kahit  gusto kong tanungin sa kanya kung ano ang gagawin niya, kung bakit siya hindi sasabay sa akin, kung sino ang kasama niya o kung ano’ng oras siya uuwi hindi ko magawa, I didn’t want to come off as invasive. Wala naman kaming relasyon kaya wala akong karapatan. The only thing I could do was to show him how much I love him and hope he’d finally love me back but it was harder than I thought it would be.

Inayos ko na ang mga gamit ko at nagpaalam na ako kina Nicole at Cooper. Paglabas ko ng building may isang puting kotse ang nakaparada doon. I approached the man standing next to the car and asked if he was the chauffeur that Axel had sent. Siya nga iyon. He opened the door to the back seats and I got inside it then he drove me off to Axel’s condo.

As soon as I got in the house, I went straight to the kitchen and opened up a cook book. Since matatagalan naman siya sa trabaho, I thought of making him a special and fancy dinner. Bistro roast chicken. Maybe I should surprise him with a little romantic candle light dinner tonight.

While I was waiting for the chicken to cook in the oven, I started setting up the table with plates, silverware, candles and a glass of wine for a little more romance. I went and changed my office clothes to a sexy black body hugging sweetheart dress. A handful of erotic run through my mind as I looked at myself in the mirror. Axel and I would a beautiful candle lit dinner, we would talk over a nice glass of wine then he would suddenly start to kiss me. The kiss would lead to something more, he’d carry me to his room and lay me on the bed while tell me he’s going to take me right there.

The sound of te oven timer going off rudely ripped me from my thoughts. I hurried to the kitchen to get the chicken out of the oven.

Everything was done. All I had to do was wait for him to come home.

9 o’clock became 10, became 11, became 12. I was already on my fourth glass of wine when I decided to call him. Sandaling nag-ring ang phone niya before someone answered it.

“Hello?” I was shocked to hear a woman’s voice at the end of the line.

“Hi..” My voice squeaked as I tried to hold myself together. I swallowed to clear my throat. “Pwede ko bang makausap si Axel?”

“I’m sorry, we’re busy right now, honey.” She said, giggling like a ditz.

“Who are you?” Hindi ko mapigilan ang tanungin siya.

“I’m Tricia, Axel’s girlfriend.” She answered.

 

Axel’s POV

“Valerie!” Nagulat ako ng makita ko si Valerie na nakaupo sa couch pagpasok ko sa unit. She was holding a glass with a bottle of wine sitting on the coffee table right in front of her. I looked at my wrist watch and it was already three in the morning. “Why are you still up?”

“Hinihintay kita.” She answered with a glazed look on her face, she wasn’t even looking at me.  

“I told you not to wait for me.” I sighed.

“Do you want to eat? I made dinner for you.” She said, putting down the glass she was holding on the coffee table.

“I already ate.” Sagot ko.

She just nodded her head, I couldn’t read any emotion on her face.

“Well, I’m going to bed. Good night.” Sabi niya bago tumayo mula sa couch at pumasok sa kwarto.

Well, what the fuck did she want? A fucking explanation? Wala akong kailangan ipaliwanag sa kanya dahil wala naman kaming relasyon, pareho namin alam yun. No commitments, no string attached, no expectations, nothing.

She was already in bed when I got in our room. She was sleeping on the far side of her bed with her back turned to my side.

I went to the bathroom to take a quick shower before jumping in the bed. The bed felt cold when I couldn’t feel her warmth against me. I already missed her warmth, her smell, even the way she’d place her head a little to heavy on my chest. And she was just a few fucking inches away from me. I scooted to her side a little… and a little bit more. She was just a few milimeters away from me but I still wanted her close to me. Skin against skin, warmth stoking warmth. My arm reached for her waist, pulling her closer to me. I would be lying if I say I had never felt turned on with having her this close to me, that I had never thought about fucking her. I do… alot. I get my shaft teased every night with no relief.

But the emotional fulfillment with having something so beautiful so close to me overpowers my physical needs.

Shit! What the fuck was I doing? This was something I wasn’t suppose to fucking do. I don’t want this. I don’t want to get used to her. I don’t want to need her, to have feelings I couldn’t control.

I could feel the changes I was dreading. The connection between us, the chemistry. It felt inevitable. It was as if it were happening without thought or freewill.

What are you doing to me, Val?

Nagising akong wala na sa tabi ko si Valerie. I looked at the clock on the beside table. Napabalikwas ako ng makita kong 10 o’clock na. Damn! She didn’t even fucking wake me up. I got out of the bed and went to the bathroom for a quick shower.

There was no Valerie waiting for me when I got out of the bathroom. I felt like my day didn’t start right.

That brat. She was just a fucking brat. I shouldn’t be feeling this way. She could fucking move out for all I care.

I was in a bad mood the whole day and I just couldn’t fucking focus on anything. All I could think about was Valerie. I wanted to fucking see her and talk to her. I just wasn’t sure what I should say. Nakasalubong siya kanina habang naglalakad papunta sa opisini ni dad. She ignored me, she didn’t even fucking threw a glance at me. I wanted to come up and talk to her but my ego told me not to. It told me that I didn’t need to explain anything to her.

The day ended with me not getting much work done. I just sat in my office going off at anything and everyone.

When it was time to go home I dialed Valerie’s number, it rang but she didn’t pick it up. Sinubukan kong tawagan ko ulit siya pero pinatay niya na ang cellphone niya. I angrily cussed. Inis na lumabas ako mula sa opisina ko para puntahan siya.

The brat wasn’t fucking there anymore. I furiously dialed her number again but her phone was still off. After awhile I decided to go home, thinking she’d already went home by herself. Nang makauwi ako wala pa rin siya doon.

Where did that fucking brat go?

Tinawagan ko ang mga kaibigan niya pero hindi din daw nila kasama si Valerie. Then I thought maybe she was with her co-workers. Mabilis kong tinawagan ang sekretarya ko para kuhanin ang contacts ng katrabaho ni Valerie, including that ‘cute HR guy’.

I called Nicole and someone picked it up after a couple of rings.

“Hello?” I heard someone say. I could also hear people talking and laughing in background . 

“Sino ’to?”

“Hey, this is Atticus.”  I answered in a monotone.

“A-atticus?”  She repeated, sounding surprised.  “Mr. Lavigne?”

“Yes. Is Valerie with you?” I asked.

After a few seconds, there was still no answer.

“Hello?”

“Ah, Mr. Lavigne, sir.” She finally spoke. “Um, kasama nga po namin si Valerie.”

“Can I talk to her?”

“Okay. Sandali lang po, sir.”  Sabi ni Nicole.

“Hi, Mr. Lavigne. Gusto mo daw ako makausap?” My jaw clenched at the sound of Valerie’s slurred words. She was obviously drunk.

“Are you fucking drunk?” I asked, choking the urge to roar in anger.

“No, sill you… I’m still sober.” She giggled.

Mariin akong napapikit at napahilot sa sentido ko. The anger built inside of me. I felt it trail up my chest as it clawed its way into my head. “Where the fuck are you? I’m going to pick you up.”

“No, I don’t want you to. Hindi ba ako pwedeng lumabas with my friends?”

“Valerie, just tell me where the fuck you are!”

“Bakit ba pinakikialaman mo ako? Bakit hindi na lang ang mga babae mo ang intindihin mo. You don’t even want me there.” Her voice trembled.

“You’re fucking drunk. Tell me where the hell you are and don’t do anything stupid.” Head pounding and breathing deep, I clutched the phone tight.

“Bye, Mr. Lavigne. Have fun with your girls.”  She laughed.

“Valerie! Val!” Sigaw ko pero ibinaba niya na iyon. Sunod sunod akong napamura. I called that number again and thank God it was Nicole who answered it. Tinanong ko siya kung nasaan sila at agad naman niyang ibinigay ang lugar. They were at their co-worker’s house, celebrating his birthday.

I hurridly ran to my car and drove to where Valerie was. I parked my car in front of the house. Nasa labas pa lang ako naririnig ko na ang ingay sa loob. There were music, people singing, laughing. I knocked on the door and a guy, I believe his name was Cooper, opened the door for me. He paused for awhile when he saw me and blinked as if recovering from a trance.

“Mr… Mr. Lavigne.” He said, opening the door wider. “Pasok po kayo.”

“Salamat.” I nodded, stepping in. There sure was alot of people. Pero isa lang ang hinahanap ng mga mata ko.

“Gusto niyo po ng juice, beer?” Alok niya.

“No, thank you.” I politely declined. “Gusto ko lang makausap si Valerie.”

“Si Valerie! Kanina nakita ko siyang kasama ni Aaron.” Sabi ni Cooper.

My hands clenched into fists. So she was with that HR guy.

“Iyon pala sila sir.” Cooper said, pointing at them. She was sitting next to the fucking HR guy and lauging with him. “Valerie!” Napatingin si Valerie sa gawi namin ng tawagin siya ni Cooper.

Our eyes met and it narrowed at her. Nawala ang ngiti niya sa mga labi nang lumapit ako sa kanila.

“Having fun?” I sarcastically asked.

She looked up at me with hooded eyes and smiled. “Oh Mr. Lavigne, it’s so nice to see you here.” She drunkenly giggled.

I grabbed her by the arm and pulled her up. Nagpumiglas siya at pilit na kumawala.

“Ano ba? Bitawan mo ako!” She said, trying to wrench her arm from my grip.

“We’re going home.” Matigas na sabi ko.

“But I don’t want to.” She muttered like a little girl. “Bakit ikaw pwede kang umuwi kahit kailan mo gusto? Bakit ako hindi? It’s not fair.”

“You’re going home with me whether you like it or not.”  I firmly said through gritted teeth.

“No! Dito lang ako. Pabayaan mo na ako.” She stubbornly said.

She left me with no choice but to pick her up and hang her on my shoulder. She shrieked in surprise and everyone’s eyes were on us.  I didn’t fuckin care, to hell with them.

“Axel, ano ba? Bitiwan mo ako! Axeeeel!” She screamed, hitting my back.  “Put me down, damn you!”

I carried her out of the party and into the car. I locked the passenger’s side where she was sitting at and ran around the driver’s side. I slipped into my car and started it.Neither one of us spoke as I drove back home. She just crossed her arms and pouted like the little brat she was.

“Get out of the car.” I commanded after opening the passenger’s seat.

She threw me a glare with her lips pursed before she leaned back to her seat, refusing to get out of there.

I sighed and did what I had done at the party. Ipinangko ko siya at isinampay ulit sa balikat ko na parang sako ng bigas. Nagpumiglas ulit siya at nagtitili.

“You’re a fuckin handful, you know that?” I mumbled as I carried her inside my unit and kicking the door close behind me. But that’s a part of her charm.

“You are such a bad girl, Val.” I sighed, putting her down.

“I’m a bad girl?” She laughed, her arms locked around my neck while her fingers played on my nape.

“You want me to be a good girl right?”  She buried her face on my neck.  “But you make me want to do bad things. I don’t understand you, Axel. I don’t understand…” She murmured, her lips against my skin. 

“May mali ba sa akin? May kulang ba?”  She asked, looking up at me. 

I swallowed not knowing what to say. She suddenly pushed me to the couch behind us and stratled her legs around my hips.

“Val…” My breath hitched as I felt a stir inside my pants. Jesus, she was so fuckin drunk. This wasn’t right. 

“Kaya ko rin naman ibigay sa’yo ang ibinibigay sa’yo ng mga babae mo. Ayaw mo lang kunin.” She chuckled as she ran her fingers on my face. And then she ran her thumb on my lips, tracing it. Her chuckled died as she looked at me in the eyes and cupped my face with her hands. “Axel, I love you. I love you so much.”

“Come on, I’ll take you to bed.” Hinawakan ko siya sa magkabilang baywang para ilayo sa akin. But before I could do so, she crashed her lips to mine. She kissed me hungrily and I knew I wasn’t going to be able to stop. Nawala na ako sa katinuan ng halikan niya ako. She had no fuckin idea how badly I wanted this.

Naramdaman ko ang mga daliri niyang isa-isang binubuksan ang butones ng shirt ko. I slipped my tongue inside her mouth and she welcomed it hungrily and sucked on it. She pushed my shirt off my shoulders and down my arms after unbuttoning it. Her fingers played on my chest, tracing the lines of it as we kissed. After a few moments, her lips left mine and trailed down my jaw and down to my neck.

“Valerie…” I groaned when she sucked on the sensitive spot on my neck. Bumaba pa ang mga labi niya sa pagitan ng dibdib ko. Down to my stomach until she was leaning in between my open legs. I looked down at her and she stared right into me with a naughty look on her face.

“Hindi mo kailangan ng ibang babae. Nandito naman ako.” She said as she unbuttoned my trouser. “I can give you the pleasure you want, you need… and so much more.” She bit the hem of my pants, not breaking eye contacts, as she tug it down with her teeth along with my boxers. It was so fuckin hot.

She took my shaft in both her hands and started stroking it. My head fell back on the couch as I melt into a puddle of pleasure. Valerie suddenly stopped and started taking her top and bra off. I was surprised at what she did next. She leaned her body closer to me and placed my shaft in between her breasts and pushed her breasts together to imprison me.

Holy mother of all fucks. “Val, Jesus Christ, Valerie!”

“You like this don’t you?” She teasingly asked. 

“Shit. Val, baby. Fuck my c ock. Fuck it with your t its.” I cried out when she started pumping it up and down. Holy fuck! This was like a scene straight out of a fuckin porn video. I leaned over to her and cupped her face and made it look up at me, I kissed her on the lips with a fury and passion I had never shown to anyone in my life. My hips started thrusting up and down in between her breasts until I couldn’t take it any longer. I came and my come shot out and trickled down her beautiful breasts.

After recovering from the frenzy, I pulled her up to me and sat her on my lap. I kissed her on the lips as my hand started stroking her legs, and then she suddenly pulled away from the kiss. Isinubsob niya ang ulo niya sa leeg ko and then she passed out. I kissed her on the forehead.

Binuhat ko siya papunta sa kwarto namin at hiniga sa kami. I cleaned her up and covered her with a blanket. As I looked at her, I realized something. She was clearly braver than I was. She wasn’t afraid to say how she feels. She risked the humiliation and everything to find out if what we had was worth pursuing. I wished I was as brave as her.

 ___

Hi guys,

Kung may instagram kayo follow niyo si Damien Pannier, ang portrayer ni Axel. Here’s his instagram: @damienfrench

Chapter Twenty Five

Valerie’s POV

I blinked in confusion as I sat up on the bed. The cold air brushed against my naked body, making me shiver. I pulled the blanket up to cover myself and I wrapped it around my body. I felt thirsty so I slid out of bed and made my way to the kitchen.

I was surprised to see Axel sitting on the table in his boxers, drinking coffee and reading the newspaper. I thought he had already gone to work and left me here alone. I felt embarrassed as the memories of last night came flooding to me. Ibinaba niya ang dyaryong binabasa niya at tumingin sa akin. His brows shot up. “If you’re going to be watching me, at least join me for breakfast.”

“I’m… I’m just going to get a glass of water.”

“Val, please, sit down.” He sighed. “We need to talk.”

I slowly walked up to the table, pulled a chair in front of him and sat there. There was a few moments of awkward silence between us.

“Just what the hell did you think you were doing last night? You are such an irresponsible little snitch!” He said in an irritated tone.

“I’m not irresponsible! I was just having fun with my friends. I didn’t do anything wrong.” I frowned.

He let out a sarcastic snicker. “Not irresponsible? What would you call it, then? You were drunk! Hindi mo kilala ang ugali ng lahat ng tao doon. Paano kung napagsamantalahan ka. Kagabi nga lang akala mo ahas kung makapulupot sa’yo yung Aaron na yun.” He breathed through his nose.

“He’s my friend. He was just trying to sober me up.” Sabi ko. 

  “Wala akong pakialam kahit kaibigan mo iyon, lalaki pa rin iyon! Paano kung bigla ka na lang iuwi nun-”

“Hindi lahat ng lalaki katulad mo!” I said, losing my temper.

“Katulad ko? What do you mean by that Valerie? Kahit kailan hindi kita pinagsamantalahan. Wala akong ginawa sa’yo na hindi mo ginusto.”

“Hindi mo ba naisip na pwedeng gusto ko rin kung anuman ang posibleng mangyari sa amin kagabi.” I snided.

His jaw clenched ans his eyes narrowed guardedly at me. I looked at him with equal intensity. It was like a staring contest which I lost. I sighed as I tried to keep my tears at bay. “Bakit ikaw pwede mong gawin kahit anong gusto mo? Pwede kang umuwi kahit kailan mo gusto ng hindi ako pwedeng magtanong kung saan ka nanggaling. You can spend the night with any woman while I’m stuck here waiting for you like a dog for its owner.” I swallowed what felt like a lump in my throat. “ I love you but please, don’t keep doing this to me. Nasasaktan din ako.”

His face suddenly soften and quickly changed in to a confused look. “What are you talking about? Sa tingin mo, may kasama akong babae noong isang gabi? I was at a business auction party.”

“Nagpakatanga na nga ako sa’yo lalo mo pa ‘kong ginagawang tanga. You were with Tricia, your girlfriend.”

“You mean Patricia?” His brows lifted in a wry arch. “Yes, I was with her at the party but I was also with my dad and her dad. She isn’t my girlfriend. How did you know I was with her?”

“Tumawag ako sa’yo kasi nga nag-aalala ako.” I answered.

“I swear to God, Tricia is not my girlfriend and nothing happened between us.” He said.

I just stared at him, not knowing if I should believe him or not. Para naman naramdaman niya ang pag-aalinlangan ko. “Look, Val, I have no reason to lie to you.Kung gusto mo tatawagan ko pa siya ngayon.” He got up from his seat, went to our room and came back with his phone. He dialed a number and put the phone on speaker so I could hear it.

“Hi, Axel!” A woman’s cheerful voice answered. Iyon din ang parehong boses na sumagot noong tinawagan ko siya the other night.

“Patricia, while we were at the auction party pinakialaman mo ba ang phone ko?” He asked.

“I can’t remember.” She answered.

“Patricia!” He pressed.

“Okay, okay, sige na. Sinagot ko yung phone mo nung umalis kayo nina dad sa table. May naghanap sa’yo na babae at sinabi kong busy ka.”

“Yun lang ba ang sinabi mo?”

“Yeah, I think so.”

“Did you also tell her that you’re my girlfriend.”

“I… it was just a joke. Bago ko pa nasabi sa kanya iyon binaba niya na yung phone. At saka bakit ba? Ano naman kung sinabi ko iyon? Marami ka pa naman side chick, right? Ikaw kaya si Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne, hindi ka mauubusan ng babae.” She laughed.

He huffed. “Goodbye, Tricia.” He ended the call and looked at me. “Now, do you believe me?”

A smile crept on my lips as I slowly nodded my head. He didn’t have to do that if he didn’t want to. Hindi niya kailangan patunayan sa akin na mali ang iniisip ko. But he did. I saw subtle smile almost spread across his lips as he looked at me.

“Eat up and then go take a bath. I already got warm water ready for you in the tub. It’ll make you feel better.” Sabi ni Axel.

“Did you make all these?” I asked, looking at the food on the table. There were hash browns, toasted bread, scrambled eggs and fresh fruits.

He didn’t answer and pretended not to hear it. He looked down like an ashamed little boy. It was so cute.

I felt so much better after eating and I decided to soak myself in the tub while Axel used the shower. We were getting used to each other’s nudity but I still couldn’t help but stare in awe as I watched him through the glass wall that surrounded him. He had a beautifully sculpted physique, slender and muscular. He had not an ounce in his body, you could clearly see 6 packs on his abs, just pure muscles. He turned and saw me looking at him, I quickly looked away embarrased. Pinatay niya ang shower and he opened the glass the door.

He reached for the towel on the towel bar and dried himself with it before wrapping around his waist. “Hindi ka pa ba tapos?”

“Tapos na din ako. Magbabanlaw na lang ako.” I said.

“I’ll just get dressed.” Sabi ni Axel. I nodded my head.

I got out of the tub after a few more minutes and when I got to our room, Axel was already in his brown cargo pants and white tees.

“Hindi ka ba papasok sa trabaho?” I asked.

“I just called my secretary. I took a leave today.”

“Bakit?”

“We’re going away. Pack up your things.”

“Saan tayo pupunta?”

“Don’t forget to take your swimsuit with you.” He simply said.  

 

 

I kept asking Axel where we were going but he never answered my question. After a two hour drive his car stopped in front of a house made of brick and wood with glass walls. It stood right beside a quiet body of water and was surrounded by trees. Lumabas si Axel mula sa kotse at sumunod ako sa kanya. He started unloading his trunk with our bags. Isang maliit na travelling bag lang ang dala ko (of course, it had to be pink) and he brought his own too and carried it both. Kung maganda ang labas ng bahay, mas maganda ang loob. My shot open when he opened the door. The dark wooden floor complimented the ivory white wall, it had high ceiling a  a lot of large windows framed with brown wood overlooking the lake. It was so grand yet so simple and cozy.

“God, this is so beautiful.” I said as I was walking in.

He turned his head and smiled at me. Something about his smile made me want to melt right where I was standing . “Do you like it?”

“Are you kidding? This place is breath taking.” I said, my eyes wandering around the house. Tumayo ako sa harap ng bintana where you could see the lake. Right in front of it was a long dock extending to the water and a shiny black motor boat at the end of the dock. “Pwede ba tayong sumakay doon?” I excitedly asked, pointing at it.

“Of course.” He answered. “That’s why I told you to bring your swimsuit.”

I followed him upstairs to the bedroom where he placed our bags. We both changed into our swimwear, I wore a pair of black two piece bikini and a loose white cover up dress while Axel wore a white swimming trunks. Parang batang nagmamadali akong bumaba at tumakbo papunta sa lake. Sumunod sa akin si Axel, bringing along a bucket of fish bait.

Inalalayan niya ako paakyat sa motorboat at saka siya sumakay. He went in front of it and started the engine. Within minutes, we were cutting across the water. He sped it up, making the motorboat jump like a flying fish. I screamed in excitement and a rush of adrenaline. Hininto niya ang boat sa gitna ng lawa. I leaned on the rail and took in a deep breath. I smiled at the sight of the rich, brilliant blue water and its beauty. Then I felt a warm body pressed on my back. He, too, held on the rail and imprisoned me between his arms.

“Like the view?”

“I love it…” I sighed.

“I knew you would.” He was so close to me I could feel his breath on my nape.

“Why did you bring me here?” I asked, curiously.

“Just because.” He chuckled.

Tinanggal niya ang mga kamay niyang nakahawak sa rail and I could no longer feel the heat of his body against mine. Parang gusto kong habulin ang init ng katawan niya. I wanted to feel it for a few more minutes. He suddenly jumped from the boat to the water.

“Axel!” I screamed.

He just let out a careless laugh. “Come on, jump in.” He urged.

“I’ll just stay here.” Sagot ko.

“Why would you want to stay there. Mas masarap dito, malamig ang tubig.”

“I don’t like swimming in deep open waters.”

 “Ako’ng bahala sa’yo. Come on.” He reached his hand up to me. I slowly took his hand and sat at the edge of the boat. I carefully slid my body down the water and panicked when I couldn’t feel a solid ground beneath my feet. Hinawakan ako ni Axel sa magkabilang baywang. My arms wrapped around his neck like I was holding on to my dear life. I felt his arms curling around my waist, pulling me against his body. I closed my eyes and rested my head on his shoulder. I felt more intimate with him that I ever had habang magkasama kami sa iisang bubong.

Is this what boob job does to men? I should start giving it to him regularly. He was no longer stiff and stoic. He was suddenly laid back and carefree.  He was no longer holding back. I saw him smile and laugh today. An aura of ease rolled off him. We stayed in the water for a couple more minutes. He taught me how to float on water and then we both got tired we climbed back up the boat.

He took out two fishing poles and handed one to me. Umupo kami sa gilid ng boat. He sat behind me, his legs spread so I could fit between it. Our feet were both draped in the water as I leaned back to his soft chest. We quietly sat there waiting for a fish to bite. The sun was reflecting through the water, making it glisten with its warm glow. The silence between us was intense. No words were said but I could feel his heart thumping against me. For some reason, I could feel our hearts beating at the same time, on the same rhythm. It felt like nothing could break through the forming conversation, the forming feelings, whatever was forming between us at this very moment.

Axel’s POV

“Ang laki ng nahuli kong isda.” Valerie bragged as we were walking on the deck back to the lake house. It was already dusk when we decided to go back to land. Pinanood pa kasi namin ang sunset.

“Not bad for a first timer.” I snickered.

“Ano’ng not bad? Mas malaki kaya nahuli kong isda kaysa sa’yo.” Her brows crumpled.

“Begginer’s luck.” I replied.

“Hah! You just can’t accept the fact that I’m way better at fishing than you.”

“Whatever you say.” I chuckled before my arm snaked to the small of her waist. We headed back to the lake house. We brought the fishes we caught and decided that that would be what we were having for dinner. I caught a catfish and Valerie caught a huge chinook salmon.

Si Valerie ang nagluto ng dinner namin. She baked the salmon with ginger, lemon, garlic and olive oil. No matter what Valerie does, she just looks exquisitely beautiful. My eyes raked over her form, slowly up and down her length, while she was busy making our dinner. She was the first woman I had ever brought here. I never even brought Guiles here. This place was special, not only to me but to my parents. This place was where we had the happiest days of our lives. We spend the whole summer here, just the three of us, every year when I was a kid.

I smiled as I imagined spending every summer with Val here in our lakehouse with our child. Shit!   

I quickly pushed the thought away. What was I thinking? With Guiles, I never thought that far ahead. I never even remembered wanting to have a child with her.

“Dinner’s ready.” Sabi ni Val habang hawak ang isang tray ng baked salmon. It smelled delicious. My mouth started to water. She placed it on the table and we both ate together. Pagkatapos namin kumain nakita ni Valerie ang mga photo albums namin. She started going through it even though I told her not to.

We sat in the living room. She was cuddled up on my side while my hand rested on the back of the couch.

“Oh my god! Is that you?” She chuckled, pointing at a picture of me when I was a little boy. “Ang chubby mo pala noon. Ang sarap pisilin ng pisngi mo.”

“Okay, that’s enough.” I felt embarrassed and tried to get the album from her.

“Sandali lang, tinitignan ko pa.” Inilayo niya sa akin iyon para hindi ko maabot. “Ang cute mo kaya.”

I sighed, letting out an annoyed groan.

“Aw this is so cute. The first fish you caught. How old were you in this picture?” She was looking at a picture of me with my dad next to me holding up a fishing rod while I hold up a big rainbow trout by the tail. I remembered it was my mom who took that picture.

“I think I was around 6 or 7 at that time.” I answered. She flipped through page and pages. And when she was done with the album she moved on the to other one.

“Your mother’s so beautiful. She kind of reminds me of Audrey Hepburn.” She said, looking at the photo of my mother posing by the lake with black beach hat. “She looks… regal.”

“She is.” I agreed.

“Your mom and dad look so cute together. Bakit wala ka sa photo album na ‘to?” She asked.

“It was their first honeymoon.”

“So you mean, dito sila naghoneymoon?” She asked, wide-eyed and mouth shot open.

“Yeah.”

“Oh my god, really?”

I nodded my head.  

“Maybe we could have our honeymoon here too.” She giggled.

I avoided her gaze by looking out the window, staring out at the lake. Suddenly I could feel tension between us thicken.

“I was just kidding.” She let out a nervous laugh.

The discomfort in the air didn’t go away. We decided to hit the sack after she looked through another photo album. Kahit na maraming kwarto ang lake house, we decided to stay together in one room. Nasanay na akong katabi siya. She was in my system now. Her warmth, the smell of her, her sound and her movement.

We quietly layed together in bed. Half of the room’s roof was made of glass, the glow of the moon illuminating the dark room. Hindi pa rin tulog si Valerie. What was happening was different from what I planned. I felt contented with her by my side. Peace settled in my bloodstream along with the lust I always felt for Val. I had learned to control my need for her.

This shouldn’t be happening and I shouldn’t be feeling this way. I couldn’t let my feelings turn into something serious. All hell would break loose if that happens.

But in the back of my mind, I knew at some point Tristan and Jaime would find out. A part of me looks forward to that conversation. The guilt I was carrying was getting way too heavy.

Chapter Twenty Six

Valerie’s POV

I was in the shower, getting ready for work. Hanggang ngayon hindi ko pa rin makalimutan ang dalawang araw na bakasyon namin sa lake house. Yesterday, we took a dip in the lake, and then relaxed and talked before we decided to go home. I was still hungover from yesteday. Kung pwede nga gusto ko sanang magtagal pa doon. I didn’t want to leave that place but we had to. Marami pa kasing naiwan trabaho dito si Axel. Next time we go back to that place, it would be our honeymoon.

Sana lang walang magbago sa amin. I liked the fun Axel. He was not at all like Moody Bastard Axel.

Lumabas na ako ng shower, dried myself and as soon I stepped out of the bathroom, sinalubong ako ni Axel.

“Can you help me with my tie?” He held out a black scrap of cloth. I was more than happy to oblige. I took it from him and wrapped it around him. We were only inches apart. I could smell his after shave, like him very musculine and subtle.

“Thanks.” He grinned sheepishly. “ You go get dressed. I’ll wait for you outside.”    

“Okay.” Sagot ko.

I quickly got dressed and put on a little makeup before joining Axel for a quick breakfast. Pagkatapos namin magbreakfast umalis na kami papunta sa trabaho.

He stopped his car infront of the building like he does everyday to drop me off.

“Have a nice day.” I said. “I love you.” I leaned over to him to give him a kiss on the cheek. He turned his head and I ended up kissing him on the lips. It was just a light peck but it sent my heart racing. I felt his lips move against mine delicately. I began to return the kiss, our lips molding together.

BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!

The car behind us honked loudly. I felt him smile against my lips, making me smile too. He pulled away and chuckled. “I’ll see you later.”

“Yeah…” I sighed, still wanting more. I swung the car door open and slipped out of it. I waved at Axel goodbye before he drove off. I bit my lower lip. I felt drunk from the kiss. We had kissed before but it was always during some kind of sexual-heightened moment. This was different. It was special. It was pure and innocent and sweet.  

I felt like I was walking on clouds as I walked inside the building.  The bond with shared in the lake house, the kiss we just shared seconds ago. What does that all mean? Was he starting to love me back?

“Good morning, Valerie.” Nicole greeted me when I entered our office.

“Good morning.” I replied, I still couldn’t wipe the smile off my face.

“Ang blooming mo ngayon. Nakakahawa ngiti mo.” She teased.

I chuckled as I sat on my desk. She followed against my desk and gave me a smile before wiggling her brows up and down. “Dahil ba yan kay Mr. Lavigne?”

“Huh? Hindi ‘no.” I denied, avoiding eye contact with her.

“Ano’ng hind? Kayo kaya ang hot topic ngayon dito sa opisina. Yung nangyari dun sa birthday ni Cooper tapos pareho pa kayong nawala ng dalawang araw. Tell me the real score between you two.”

 “Wala.” I answered, trying to sound as casual as possible. “We just know each other because he’s my brother’s friend.”

“Just tell me the truth. Promise, walang makakaalam.” She grinned.

I let out a deep breath. “There’s really nothing to tell.”

“Kung hindi ka pa handang magshare okay lang. Malalaman din naman namin yan.” She giggled.

I rolled my eyes at her and smiled. Today was just like any other day except for the moment I smile because I think of Axel and all the times we shared at the lake house. I just couldn’t forget about it. The talks we had, the laughters we shared.  

As I was working on my computer, someone knocked on the door. Cooper got up and opened it. “Delivery po para kay Ms. Valerie Zamora.”

I turned my head to the door when I heard my name. The guy stood there with a big white basket filled with pink roses.

“Oh my god.” Nicole squealed.

Pinapasok ni Cooper ang lalaki at inilapag nito ang basket sa ibabaw ng desk ko.

“Kanino galing ‘to?” I asked.

The guy just smiled at me before walking out. The two nosy couple gathered around my desk. Nicole and Cooper looked at me as if waiting for an explanation.

“What?” Nagpalit-palit ako ng tingin sa kanila.

I noticed a tiny card sticking up in the bouquet. Kinuha ko iyon at binuksan.

You too. –A

Iyon lang ang nakalagay doon. What? My brows furrowed in confusion. Ano’ng ibig sabihin ng ‘You too’.

“Ano yung you too. Sino si A?” Nicole asked, she was already behind my back reading the card.

“Si Atticus o si Aaron?” Cooper said.

I remembered what I said to him before getting out of the car. Have a nice day and I love you. And this was his response? Para ba ito sa ‘Have a nice day’ o sa ‘I love you’ ko?

I sighed dreamily. It doesn’t matter. He just gave me a bunch of pink roses. I took one stem from the basket and smelled the rose. I felt like there were hundred- no, thousands of butterflies going wild inside my stomach.

Lunch time finally came. I was so excited to see Axel. I looked around the cafeteria, trying to find Axel. My heart skipped a beat when I saw him walk in. His confidence and poise and powerful presence was unmistakeable. Our eyes met and locked. We needed no words. He gave me a subtle smile and I smiled back at him.

Kahit gustuhin ko hindi ako pwedeng lumapit sa kanya. I knew we were the talk of the office. He probably already knew it too. Nakuntento na lang kami sa paminsan-minsang sulyap. When I catch him looking at me, he smiles at me and when he catches me looking at him I smile at him. It was as if we were exchanging a silent conversation that only wordless glance could convey.   

Nauna akong matapos kumain kina Nicole at Cooper. Nagpaaalam ako sa kanila. I got out of the cafeteria hoping he’d follow me and he did.

“Hey.” He said, while I stood in front of the elevator, waiting for it to open.

“Hi, Mr. Lavigne.”  

“Did you like the flowers I sent you?” He asked.

I couldn’t hold back my smile even if I wanted to. “They’re beautiful. But why did you sent me those?”

The elevator door opened and we stepped inside.

“Gusto lang kitang pasalamatan sa pagsama mo sa akin sa lake house.” He answered.

“You don’t have to thank me. Nag-enjoy akong kasama ka. I should be the one thanking you.”

“You can thank me by going out to dinner with me tonight.”

It was so hard to contain my squeal. Did he just asked me out? Oh my god! “Sure.”

Bumukas ang elevator sa floor ko. We looked at each other, he smiled. “Okay, then it’s a date. See you tonight.”

Parang ang bigat ng mga paa ko habang palabas akong elevator. I still wanted to be with him. He nodded bye to me just before the elevator door closed.

We were going to have a date tonight. I really believed tha this was a start of a new relationship for us. I felt like time was going slow as I sat on my desk and did my work. I kept checking the time. Thirty minutes before my shift ended, the office phone rang. I answered it, the call was from the lobby.

“Hello, good evening. May I please speak with Ms. Valerie Zamora.”

“Speaking.”

“You have a visitor waiting for you here in the lobby by the name of Mr. David Ponce.”

“What?” B igla akong napabalikwas sa kinauupuan ko.

“Mr. David Ponce, ma’am.”

“O-okay.” Napakurap ako. What was he doing here?

I told Nicole and Cooper that I had to leave earlier and went down to the lobby. David got up from his seat when he saw me. Sinalubong niya ako at niyakap. I immediately pulled away from the hug.

“Valerie, I’m so glad to see you again.” He said cupping my face.

“What are you doing here? Paano mo nalamang nandito ako?”

“Sinabi sa akin ni tito Jaime na dito ka na raw nagtatrabaho.” He answered.  “Bakit umalis ka ng hindi mo man lang sinabi sa akin? I missed you so much, princess.”

“I-I’m sorry. It was a sudden decision.”

“Yeah, I understand. Ang mahalaga magkasama na ulit tayo.”

“David, we need to talk.” I chewed on my bottom lip, nervously.

Axel’s POV

I watched in silence from afar where they couldn’t see me. I could feel my jaw clenching and my teeth grinding together. She was with the man who had her first. Gusto kong lumapit sa kanya at ilayo siya sa lalaking iyon pero pinigilan ko ang sarili ko. I wanted to know how this would turn out. Gusto kong patunayan sa sarili ko na mali ang iniisip ko. That Valerie was over him. That she would choose me over him. 

David walked away and Valerie took out her phone from her bag. My phone rang. I reached for it from my inner coat pocket and answered it.

“Hi.” I tried to sound casual.

“Axel, may importante akong lakad ngayon. I’m sorry I can’t go out with you tonight. Hindi na din ako makakasabay sa’yo pauwi.”

“Saan ka pupunta?” 

 “I just, um- I forgot na nakapangako na pala ako kina Trina ngayon gabi. I’m so sorry, Axel.”

What a fucking liar.

“Axel…” She spoke again when I didn’t answer. “I love you.”

I felt nothing but disgust when I heard her say that. How could she say that and be with another man, that lying little whore. Ibinaba ko agad ang phone.

I was almost ready to let her in and then I saw this. I saw her lying right in front of my face. She made a fool out of me.  She made me believed that she really loved me. Isa lang pala iyong malaking kalokohan. The moment David came to her, she just dropped me like it was nothing.

Chapter Twenty Seven

Valerie’s POV

I had to do this. I left him hanging and now I had to fix this. I owe David an explanation. I wanted to end whatever we had as soon as possible. Nagpunta kami sa isang restaurant para makapag-usap ng maayos.

He sat across me and smiled at me. I felt my throat dry in anxiety. My hand reached for the glass of water in front of me and I took a sip from it.

“How have you been?” He asked.

“Fine.” I answered, putting the glass down.

He nodded his head. “Ngayon lang ako nagkaroon ng pagkakataon makasunod sa’yo dito. I’ve been wanting to see you but dad needed me there.”

“Naiintindihan ko.” I forced a smile.

“Valerie, why did you leave the hacienda?”

I took a deep breath before answering. “I followed my heart.”

“What do you mean?”

“I followed the man I love.”

“I… I thought we had something special.”

“That’s what I thought too. I wanted  to love you but my heart is not with you.”

“It it Axel?” His voice took a darker tone and so did his face.

“Yes.” I croacked out. “I love him.”

“He isn’t the right man for you. I am. We’ve known each other since we were little. Hindi ba ipinangako ko sa’yo noon na babalik ako para sa’yo? We’re meant for each other.”

“David, bata pa tayo noon. Things have changed.”

“But Val…” His hand slid to mine that was resting on the table. Agad kong binawi ang kamay ko mula sa pagkakahawak niya.

“I’m sorry, David. I’m so sorry.” I said and got up from my seat. I loved David but it was nothing like the love I had for Axel. I had only seen the best of David. I fell in love with the idea of him, the illusion of him. I had seen the worst of Axel, every imperfection he had, every flaw, every quirk, and I loved him even more. I could feel the love I had for him in my bones and not just in my head.

 I hurridly walked out of the restaurant. It didn’t take long for him to follow after me. “Valerie!” He grabbed me by the arm and spun me around. “I love you, Valerie. What do I need to do to make you love me again?”

“There’s nothing you need to do. I only fell in love with what I made you out to be. I only fell in love with the idea of you.”

“Then I’d be the best damn idea you’ve ever had!” He pulled me to him and before I could even react, he crashed his lips to mine.

“Mm!”  My hands clenched to his chest as I tried to push him away from me.

“You fucking whore!” My whole body froze when I heard his dark and deep voice. David’s lips finally separated to mine as he tried to catch his breath. I looked at Axel, his eyes burning with hatred, anger and disgust.

“Axel…” I said in a low voice. I took a step towards him and he took a step back. He walked away and I tried to catch up to him. Sumakay siya sa kotse at bago pa ako makahabol, nasara niya na ang pinto. I banged on the car window and begged him to talk to me but he ignored me. He started his car and I couldn’t do anything but watch him as his car sped off. Hot tears began stinging my eyes.

“He’s an asshole, Valerie. He doesn’t deserve you.” Sabi ni David. “You don’t need him.”

“I don’t need him but I want him more than anything and that’s worst than needing him.” I said as I wiped away the tears that trickled down my cheeks.

“Val…” He tried to reach for me but I moved away.

“Do not touch me.” I said through gritted teeth as I glared at him. I left him there and got a cab to Axel’s condo. My hand shook as I reached for the door handle to his unit. I opened it and slowly walked in. I found Axel sitting on the mini bar with a glass of what seemed like an alcohol in his hand. I slowly walked to him and hugged him from behind.

“What you saw was not what you think. You know how much I love you.” I rested my forehead on his shoulder as I sobbed.

“Pack up your things and leave.” He said in a hard, cold voice.

“Axel, please… hindi ko ginusto iyon.” I cried. “I don’t want to leave. I love you and I won’t leave you.”

“Pagbalik ko ayaw ko ng makita ka dito. I would call the security guards to throw you out of here if I have to.” He unclasped my arms from his torso. “Save yourself the humiliation.”

Tumayo siya mula sa kinauupuan niya at lumabas sa unit. I burst into tears as soon as he left. My legs felt weak, unwilling to stand any longer, I sat on the couch and cried. My elbows rested on my thigs and I buried my face on my palm to muffle my sobs. I felt like I was fighting a losing battle. I loved and I tried and it was enough. I loved him and it was exhausting.

I took out my phone and dialed dad’s number. After a few rings he picked it up.

“Daddy…” My voice shook.

“Princess, what’s wrong?” He asked, worried.

“Nothing. I just miss you and I want to go home.” I sobbed.

“Princess, tell me what’s wrong.” He pressed. “What did he do to you?”

“Mahirap ba akong mahalin, dad?”

“No! Baby, no.” He immediately answered and took a long pause as if he was thinking. “It’s just that you can’t love someone into loving you. You can love someone with all your heart, skin and bones and it won’t change a thing. Remember this, relationships can’t be carried by only one of its half.”

 

Axel’s POV

“Atticus.” Dad looked surprised when he saw me. I decided to go to my parent’s house to spend the night. I wanted Valerie out of my home but I couldn’t  bear seeing her go either.

“Hi, dad.” I forced out. “I don’t feel like going to my condo. Can I crash here tonight?”

“You’re my son. You know you’re always welcome here.” He said.

“Thanks.” Pinilit kong ngumiti,

“Is something wrong? May problema ka ba?” He looked at me with worry in his eyes.

“I just had a hard day. I’m going to my room.” I said as I started walking towards the stairs. My chest felt heavy as if it weighed a thousand pounds. I went to my room and threw my body to my bed. I closed my eyes and all I could see was the image of Valerie and David kissing in my head. I let out an angry curse. This felt more painful than the time I caught Guiliana having sex with another man.  

It was so painful that I didn’t even got to be angry. I just drove home in silent tears. I never cried when Guiles left me but with Valerie I felt like a pussy. I had been made out of a fool the second time around and I fucking cried over it.

There was a knock on my door. “Axel honey, can I come in?” I heard my mom’s voice. The door opened and I saw her standing there, holding a tray. I sat up from the bed as she walked towards me. She placed the tray on the bedside table and sat on the edge of my bed. She lovingly stroked my hair and smiled at me. “Dad’s worried about you, he sent me here to talk to you. What’s wrong, honey?”

“Nothing.” I shrugged.

She silently looked at me for awhile before she spoke. “Anak kita, nanggaling ka sa akin. Alam ko kung may problema ka. I can feel it.”

“Am I… am I not enough?”

“Honey…” There was pity in her eyes. “You’re more than enough. What made you think that?”

I felt weak and vulnerable. For a moment, I felt like a little boy again. I told my mother about Valerie and what I saw earlier and what she said before I left her.

“Hindi ko pa nakikilala si Valerie pero sa mga kwento mo pa lang nararamdaman kong mahal ka niya. Babae din ako, kaya alam ko. She wouldn’t do all those things for you if she didn’t love you.” She smiled. “And I know you love her too. I could see tell by the way you talk about her.”

“I know you’ve been hurt once but that shouldn’t stop you from loving again. You need to stop getting angry at the world when it falls apart. Iba si Valerie kay Guiliana. You always get the choice of staying or leaving. If Valerie wants to leave you she will. Eventually, she’ll find a way out, whether she breaks the door or smash the window. If she doesn’t love you, if she wants to leave, she’ll be gone. But, honey, she wants to stay with you. And you shouldn’t push her away. If you keep pushing her away, somebody she won’t come back. Guiliana left you but you can’t hold that against Valerie.”

Valerie’s POV

I had already put half of my clothes in my luggage when I heard the door outside open and close. It was followed by heavy footsteps that got louder and louder with every steps. It stopped right outside the room. The knob turned and the door pushed open. Axel stood there with a stoic look on his face. Our eyes met and I quickly avoided his gaze. I turned my attention back to the luggage in front of me as I carefully put my clothes in there.

“Inaayos ko lang ang mga gamit ko. I’ll leave right away after this.” I said.

I could see from  my peripheral vision when he started slowly walking towards me. Huminto siya sa likod ko. His arms wrapped around me. “Don’t leave. Huwag mo akong iwan.” He whispered to my ears as if almost begging.

He buried his face on my neck and began kissing me there. “Goddamn it, Val. I love you!”

Chapter Twenty Eight

Valerie’s POV

I closed my eyes as tears began falling down my cheeks. He blurted out those three words I had always been wanting to hear from him for so long. I held onto to his arms that was wrapped around me. He started leaving feather light kisses on my neck down to my shoulder.

I turned to face him and looked him in his eyes. “Say it again.”

“I love you.” He said as he cupped my face with his hands. I saw warmth in his dark eyes that I had not seen before. “You have no fucking idea how much I love you.”  

The impact of his words hit me so hard in the heart. A sob escaped my lips. He pulled my face closer to him and felt his lips crash against mine. I kissed him back with every ounce of passion that I had in my body, my soul and my whole being.

My pulse went spinning when he kissed me back with so much more passion and need. It didn’t take long before his hands wandered around my body. His lips went down to my jawline and nipped the skin below my ear before he trailed down my neck. He suckled on a sensitive spot on my neck, making small marks all along. He knew what drove me wild. I wanted him. I wanted him so much I could feel a rush of wet heat between my thighs.  Every muscle in me felt like jelly, my knees wanted to give out.

He carefully laid me down the bed just a few inches behind me and crawled over me.

“You want this, don’t you?” He asked.

“Yes…” I answered breathlessly.

He lifted his shirt up to his head and threw it on the floor. He smiled at me, placing his hands on the hem of my dress and slowly began inching it up. I arched my back to help him as he lifted my dress up and pulling it over my head. And then his hands went to my back and unclasped my bra, revealing my breasts. He stared at my body for awhile, my nipples hardening under his gaze. He traced his fingers on my neck, stroking it a little before it lowered to the middle of my breasts. I gasped when he cupped his hand under my breast, his fingers wrapping around it as he squeezed it.

“Who do these belong to?” His thumb lightly circled around my nipple.

“Y-you.” I whimpered.

 “Who’s the only one who’s allowed to touch you?” He asked, his thumb now callously stroking the tip of my breast, making it painfully hard.

“You.”

His mouth lowered to my left breast and took it in his mouth as his hand continued stroking my right breast. I closed my eyes tightly asI clutched my fingers in his hair, pushing him more to me, needing more skin contact. I cried out when he sucked hard on my nipple, his teeth grazing on it.

I moaned in protest when he tore his mouth away from me. Naramdaman kong bumaba ang mga labi niya sa tiyan ko. I opened my eyes and looked down at him. He looked back at me with eyes burning with desire as he gave me small kisses on my belly. I moaned when he teasingly dipped his tongue down my navel. Currents of pleasure ran throughout my whole body.

His lips finally went further down my crotch. I opened my legs wider, welcoming him with abandon. He kissed me through my panties. “Who made you this wet?”

“You.” I breathed out. 

He pulled my panties off completely. I felt so hot as I watched him gaze approvingly at my nakedness. He lightly traced a finger down my wet cleft, making my spine shiver in pleasure. “This is mine. Isn’t that right?”

“Yes.”

“Maybe it’s between your legs but it belongs to me.” He said. 

His finger found my clit and began massaging it. I moaned and whimpered as I felt it hardening against his touch. I almost screamed when he rolled it between his two fingers and pinched it. My nails dug in the sheet at the sensation. He slid his finger on  my opening, stroking around it before he pushed inside me.

“Who’s the only one who can fuck you?” He asked as he slowly, torturously slowly, move his hand.

“YOU!” My hip thrusting up to him.

He pinned my hips down. “Stay still.” He pushed his finger all the way in until his knuckles stopped him from going further in and then he slowly pulled it out again. “So hot, so wet, so mine…”   He mumured, his head lowered down on me. I felt his hot mouth against me. His tongue licked into my slit, parting it and delving inside of me. My moans became louder as he licked deeper and deeper.

I was almost on the verge of climax when he suddenly shifted, putting me on top of him. “Axel!” I gasped in surprise when I realized I was stradding his head between my thighs.

“You’re gonna ride my face and fuck my tongue.” He said in a raspy voice. He placed his hands on the sides of my hips and started lowering me to him. He made his tongue stiff and it plunged inside deep inside me as I moved down to him. He guided me up and down him until I was doing it on my own without me even realizing it. His tongue delved in and out of me, the sensation driving me insane.

“Axeeeel!” I screamed as my whole body began to tingle with pleasure. Currents of sensation rippled along my spine. My body went rigid as I felt the build up in me loosen. He pulled me down to him and sucked my flesh as my climax came to an end. He didn’t stop licking me until he had every drop. 

I threw my body beside him, feeling weak. He crawled on top of me and stroked my hair. “You taste so fuckin’ sweet. I can’t get enough of you.” He kissed me, making me taste myself in his mouth.

After awhile, he finally positioned himself between my legs. He pulled his pants and boxers off and revealed his engorged shaft. I glanced down at it, licked my lips in nervousness and gaze back up. His face was dark with desire as he looked at me. He took his shaft in his hand and rubbed it up and down my slit.

“You want me to fuck you now, don’t you?”

“Yes. Please, Axel.” My hips arched up to him. 

“After this, after I come inside you. No one else is allowed, you understand?” He said in a dark and thick.

“God, yes! I’m yours. Only yours.”  

His eyes flared with satisfaction and he began to plunge inside me. I knew it would hurt. It was thicker than his tongue and fingers. It was stretching and stretching, painful stretching. I felt like I was being torn apart.

“You’re so fuckin’ tight!” He groaned. Sweat began to break out of his forehead as he pushed his way inside. I let out a quiet whimper, trying not to cry in pain. I pulled him down to me and hugged him, my fingers dug into his back. Tears began unvoluntarily falling down the corners of my eyes. I could feel my flesh ripping apart as he moved slowly inside me.

“Val…” He raised his head up and looked at me, his eyes questioning.

“Just do it, okay? Just do it.” I sobbed. 

“You’re… you were a virgin?” He asked, sliding all the way in.

I could only nod my head in response.

“But  you… I thought you and… fuck!” He slowly slid out of me and entered me again. He slid a hand between us and started stroking my clit. It became less and less painful with every thrust. Each drawn out stroke strummed against my sensitive flesh. I could feel the heat pooling inside my stomach again.

“I love you.” I whispered.

“I love you too.” I could feel his ragged breath against my cheek, smell our arousal in the air. “I’m going to come.” He moaned in my ear. He went faster and faster with every thrust until I felt the heat exploding inside me. He stroked himself one more time before he released himself, showering my slit with his hot cream.

He got off me, layed down next to me and pulled me to him. We kept quiet for a few minutes, I could hear him breathing and calming down.

“Why did you stop me from leaving?” I asked.

“Because I realized I can’t lose you. That it would hurt more if you were gone.” He sighed as he stroke my hair. “Did you really had sex with David?”

“No… We didn’t do anything other than kissing.” I answered. 

“Why did you lie to me?” He asked.

I looked up at himand he looked down at me. “After what happened to us at the hacienda. I wanted to save what was left of my pride. I didn’t want to give you the satisfaction of knowing that you were the only man I’ve had sex with.”

He let out a chuckle. “You silly little brat.”

“You took me in the ass! It was my first time ever! I felt cheap and dirty!”  I muttered, my eyes narrowing at him.

“Okay, I’m sorry.” He said in a sincere voice. “I promise, I’ll make it up to you. I’ll give you the best sex you could ever imagine.”

I reached up and ran my finger on his cheek. “Just promise me one thing.”

“What?”

“Promise me you’ll love me.”

His eyes were warm as he smiled down at me. “I do love you.” He took my hand that was on his face and kissed it.

Chapter Twenty Nine

Axel’s POV

Valerie was submerged next to me, sound asleep. My hand played on her naked body, tracing the planes and curves of it while I gazed at her serenely beautiful face. I was the first man that was ever inside her incredible body. I couldn’t help but smile at that thought.

I didn’t care about virginity. I don’t expect my woman to be a virgin. It was never important to me. I only got mad at her when I thought she had sex with David because she had already promised herself to me, she told me she was mine. I was starting to realize my feelings for her at that time and to hear that she had sex with another man the night after we did it crushed me. I felt cheated even though we didn’t technically have anything going between us.

Tonight I found out that it was all a lie. Nothing happened between her and David. I was the first man in her life. Nobody had touched her body the way I did. Nobody have had her the way I did. I had been inside her where no one had ever been. She was mine and I’ll make sure she always would be.

She made a slight move, nestling herself on my side. I kissed her on the forehead. We didn’t use protection. It was the first time I have ever had sex with a woman without any protection. It was something I had always been careful about. But with Val, I became careless and idiotic. Hell, I even came inside her! I can’t get her pregnant. Although it’s an option one day, it wasn’t something we would want right now. Tristan and Jaime doesn’t even know about us.

 I knew having a relationship with her would be hard. Hindi ko pa alam kung paano at kung kailan ko sasabihin kay Tristan ang tungkol sa amin ni Valerie. Sa ngayon, ayoko munang isipin ang mga magiging problema namin. I just wanted to savor this moment. I wanted to take my time to enjoy the feel of her warm body against mine, her sweet scent and her beauty.

I couldn’t help but say a silent thank you to whatever force that brought her into my life, for giving me another chance at happiness. I swear on everything that is important to me that this will be different, this will be forever, this time she’ll be mine until the end of days and even beyond.

Valerie’s POV

“Good morning, Axel.” He was sleeping peacefully and was lying on his stomach when I pressed my body on top of his. He answered me with a massive half-asleep moan. I brought my lips to his ear. “Come on, my lover boy, you need to get up.”

I started showering him with soft and gentle kisses below his ear and down to his nape and further down to his broad and muscle-y back. He turned around and now I was lying on top of his chest. “Morning, beautiful.” He said with a big grin on his face.

“Breakfast is ready.” I smiled.

“Can I have you for breakfast instead?” I felt his hand rub my waist up and down.

“You had enough last night.” I giggled, pushing his hand away from my body.

“There is no such thing as having enough of your body.” He huskily said, burying his face in my neck. He shifted our position and now I was lying on the bed while he was on top of me.

“Axel…” Saway ko sa kanya as I tried to push him away. But he was unstoppable, his hands started gliding on my body through my- well, it was his shirt. It stopped on my thigh and went up and inside my shirt. His hand crept up even higher on my inner thigh as his lips trailed down my collar bone. My body relaxed against his touch and I felt him smile against my skin.

I jerked when my phone went off and that quickly woke me back up to reality. I knew it was dad, I have a ringtone for him. Sinubukan kong itulak palayo sa akin si Axel. He moaned in protest.  My hand reached for my phone on the bedside table and I answered the call.

“Good morning, dad.” I cheerfully greeted him.

“Sweetheart, ipasusundo na ba kita?” He asked.

Axel was sucking on my sensitive flesh as his hand moved further up, giving my inner thigh a caress. I tried to swat his hand away but he wouldn’t budge. He instead let out a soft and cheeky chuckle.

“Ipasusundo? Why?” I asked, quite surprised.

“Hindi ba sabi mo gusto mo ng bumalik sa hacienda?”

“Dad, I-“ I wasn’t wearing anything under Axel’s shirt. I swallowed my gasp when I felt his finger on my sex and I almost forgot what to say. That jerk! I looked down at him and gave him at pinandilatan ko siya ng mata. “I-I only said that because I miss you. I’m staying here.”

“I miss you too, sweetheart. Are you sure you want to stay there?” Dad worriedly asked.

“Yes…” I answered, squeaking a little when he pressed his finger on my clit.

“Okay ka lang ba? You sound sick.”

“Yeah, I just have a bit of a cold.” I tried my best to keep my voice steady as he circled his finger there. I threw my head back in ecstasy. “Dad, I’ll just call you back later, okay?”

“Uminom ka ng gamot at-” I didn’t understand what dad said after that. I was too lost in Axel’s touch. This man was just so ruthless and cruel, fingering me while I talk to my dad over the phone. I said bye to my dad after he was done talking and put the phone down. I gathered all the energy left in me to push him away and stop him. “You’re an asshole! Why do you keep doing that?” I frowned at him.

“Doing what?” He asked with fake innocence.

I rolled my eyes at him. “You know what!”

“I told you I just couldn’t get enough of you.” He smiled a naughty smile.

“Dahil sa ginawa mo, you won’t get any of me this morning.” I teasingly stuck my tongue out at him. He tried to grab me but I quickly got out bed and ran to the bathroom. He tried to catch up but I was quick to close the door. He begged me to let him in and I teased him for a few minutes before I opened the door. He quickly attacked me with a hot, passionate kiss and we ended up making love in the shower. It was quick but it was still as wonderful as last night.

Before heading to work, we stopped by a drug store. He bought me a morning after pill so I wouldn’t get pregnant after having unprotected sex with him last night  and a bottle of contraceptives. I would love to have his children someday but I just don’t think we were ready to have one yet. I want to get married first before we have a baby. I’m still old-fashioned when it comes to things like that.

We both got out from the car. His hand snaked on the back of my waist as we walked to the elevator on the parking lot. We stepped in and rode the elevator. As we were nearing my floor, I let out a sigh.

He suddenly turned me to him and cupped my face. His lips crashed into mine, his body pressing against me. I answered his kiss with equal passion and intensity, teasingly the bottom of his lip and nibbling it.

“Keep doing that and I’ll bring you to my office.” He murmured against my lips just as the elevator stopped on my floor.

Ting!

Bago bumukas ang pinto, pinindot niya ang close button.

“I love you.” I softly said, rubbing my nose against his.

“You too.” He smiled and kissed my forehead.

I looked up, pouting at him. “You too? I want to hear you say it.”

“I love you too.” He smiled. Those words was enough to send the butterflies in my stomach into a frenzy. I love hearing it from him and I don’t think I would get tired of it. The door opened and I stepped out, leaving him there. Everything still felt like a dream to me. It was so surreal. Akala ko hindi na mangyayari ito. Last night, I thought I’d be going back to the hacienda with a broken heart.

I was still dazed from last night. Last night he told me he loves me for the first time and last night was the first time we made love. I just couldn’t believe that this wasn’t all just a dream. The man that I love loves me back. Things really have a way of working out after all.

Nicole and Cooper were already in the office when I got there. Late na din kasi ako ng isang oras. We had our usual chitchat before getting to work. Inaasar ako ni Nicole na sa araw-araw daw na pumapasok ako, lalo daw akong gumaganda at nagiging blooming. I would just answer her with a smile. I guess when you’re in love, it shows on your face.

“Good afternooon, Mr. Lavigne.” Nicole and Cooper greeted him when we walked passed Axel. He was so handsome as always. I guess I got too caught up in admiring him that I forgot to greet him.

“Good afternoon.” He took a quick glance at them before his eyes averted to me. His broodingly dark eyes and crooked smile held a promise of sensuality. “Good afternoon, Ms. Zamora.”

I swallowed, moistening my suddenly dry throat. I felt Nicole gently nudging me on my side with her elbow. “Oh, Good afternoon, Mr. Lavigne.” I said, waking up from my trance.

A quiet chuckle rose from his throat. “Well, I’ll see you around.” He said, not taking his eyes off me. I couldn’t take my eyes off him to when he started walking away.

“Sa ilang taon kong pagtatrabaho dito ngayon ko lang nakitang ngumiti si Mr. Lavigne.” Sabi ni Cooper ng makalayo na si Axel.

“At yung mga tinginan niyo ah.” Nicole bumped her arm on mine. “Seriously, what’s the real score between you two.”

I, myself, don’t even know what we are. He said he loves me and we made love last night. Pero ibig sabihin ba nun kami na? “We’re just… friends.” I sighed.

“If you say so, Valerie. if you say so…” Nicole said, unconvinced.

I honestly hate that I had to keep what we have a secret. Gusto kong sabihin sa mundo na mahal ako ng lalaking mahal ko pero hindi pwede. 

Cooper and Nicole had already left the office. Ako na lang mag-isa. I was waiting for Axel. He texted me saying that he was on a meeting right now. Malalate siya ng ilang minuto. I decided I would just wait for her at the lobby. I grabbed my bag and headed there.

I sat there and took my phone out to text Axel and tell him I was waiting for him at the lobby.

“Hi.” I looked up from my phone when I heard a man’s voice. Aaron stood in front of me with a smile on his face.

“Hi.” I smiled back at him.

“May hinihintay ka?” He asked.

“Yeah, I’m waiting for a… friend.” I answered.

“Oh.” He nodded his head. “Gusto mong samahan muna kita habang hinihintay mo ang kaibigan mo?”

I didn’t answer. Mainly because I didn’t know what to answer.

“May I?” He said, looking at the empty space on the couch beside me.

I smiled and nodded my head. Aaron was a nice guy and he was my friend. I didn’t see anything wrong with us talking to each other.

Umupo siya sa tabi ko.   “Hindi na tayo ulit nakapag-usap pagkatapos ng party.”

“Yeah, I know. Marami kasing trabaho.” I answered.

“I’ve been hearing rumors about you dating the young Lavigne. Mula nung nangyari sa party.” He chuckled.

“They’re just, you know, rumors.” I shrugged.

“You have something on your…” He said, pointing below my right eye. I tried to wipe whatever it was away from my face. “It still there. Here, let me get that for you.” Sabi niya at dinala niya ang kamay niya doon. “Eyelash.” 

I was startled when I heard a cough. Nakatayo at nakatingin sa akin si Axel wearing an ugly frown on his face. He slightly tilted his head, telling me to follow him before walking. Mabilis akong nagpaalam kay Aaron at sumunod kay Axel. We rode the elevator to the parking lot together. I wrapped my arm around his nang kami na lang dalawa.

“How was your meeting?” I asked.

“It went well.” He answered in a stoic manner.

“Bakit nakasimangot ka?” Tanong ko sa kanya.

“I don’t want anyone touching you.” He said.

The elevator stopped and we got out.

“Are you… jealous of Aaron?” A smile crept on my lips.

Hindi siya sumagot.

“Nagseselos ka ba?” I teasingly asked again. When he didn’t answer again, I nudged on his side. “Nagseselo ka, ano? Kaibigan ko lang si Aaron, okay? Tinggal niya lang yung lash sa mukha ko.”

He suddenly stopped walking and faced me.His face drew down in a deeper frown as he looked at me dead in the eyes. He gently cupped my chin with his two fingers.  “You belong to me now, understand? You’re mine. Nobody else gets to touch you and I mean not at all.”

“I’m yours.” I breathed out. His voice and his face was so intense it left me breathless.

Chapter Thirty

Valerie’s POV            

The past month I spent with Axel had been nothing but bliss. A man like him is wild.You can’t tame him or change him. I just meet him halfway and accept him for who he really is. He may be possessive and too protective but he was also capable of being caring and sweet in his own ways. He may not be perfect but he was perfect for me in everyway. Things won’t ever be the same for me, not without him. I silently stood there for a couple of seconds and watched as he lifted his cup to his lips and took a tiny sip from it. I silently sighed. I was truly in love with this moody bastard.  Not a moment later, he looked up at me when he probably felt my presence.

He smiled and held his hand out. I walked towards him and took his hand, he pulled me to him, making me sit on his lap.

“Good morning.” I said.

“Good morning.” I answered back with a smile, my hand playing on the back of his neck. “Hindi mo man lang ako ginising para napagluto kita ng breakfast.”

“It’s fine.” He huskily whispered, kissing me under my ear. “I know I tired you out last night.”

“You always do.” I rolled my eyes.

He let out a rough chuckle before nuzzling his face on my neck and breathed in.

My hands went up to his head and I ran my fingers through the back of his hair. “Today’s our monthsary.” I heard myself say out loud andI immediately regretted it, it was supposed to be just a thought.

“Huh?” He suddenly stopped and looked at me.

“I mean, it’s… it’s been exactly a month ago since the first time we, um, made love.”  My cheeks heated and I glance away.

“Monthsary, huh?” He nodded his head. “Is that what it’s called?”

“That’s what my friends call it.” I mumbled.

“So, it’s basically little anniversaries for months, is that right?” He asked.

“Kinda like that.”

He chuckled a little and I felt really embarrassed. What was I thinking? This was Axel. He would just probably find this silly and juvenile.

“I feel old. I don’t know what’s cool anymore.” He said with a slight hint of apology after his chuckle died..

  A small smile formed on my lips as I tried to surpress my laugh. He pinched my chin and lifted it up, making me look at him.

“Happy monthsary.” His eyes were warm as it looked at me.

“Happy monthsary.” I replied, wrapping my arms around his neck. He gave me a deep and passionate kiss on the lips and we were both breathless when we broke away. My heart squeezed with happiness and my insides went to mush. I thought the idea of it would scare him… It was somewhat like adding finality in our relationship. But it didn’t seem to bother him a bit. Pwede ko na siguro talagang masabing boyfriend ko na siya.

“How should we celebrate our first month together?” He grinned cheekily and playfully wiggled his brows.

“How ‘bout you take me out on a date, lover boy.” One corner of my lips lifted up.

“Okay.” He sighed.

  “Ayaw mo?” Malambing na tanong ko. I pouted my lips.

“No, I just thought we could spend all day together, here, alone…” He said, his slowly face moving closer to mine.

Inilayo ko ang mukha ko sa kanya. “We always do that. Minsan lang tayo lumalabas. Please?”  I gave him the pupy dog eyes.

  “As you wish…” He said, defeated. “But you have to give me a kiss.”

I smiled and pressed a chaste kiss to his mouth.

Axel took me out and we watched a movie together. He let me pick what movie to watch and me being a full-blooded female naturally chose a romantic-comedy film. It was a good, I enjoyed it. I thought he kinda did too.

He had his arm encircled around my shoulder as we walked out of the theater after the movie. In the weeks that we’d been together it had been better than I imagined it would be like. Better than all the romantic movies I have seen, better than the romance novels I have read, and the sex was definitely better than the ones I have watched or read. Everything was always better with Axel.

Things were great for us when we were alone but when we were out in public where people we knew could see us, we have to act like we didn’t know each other. That was the only thing that irks me sometimes.  We have to hide our relationship as if what we were doing was wrong.

Nagpunta kami sa isang restaurant para maglunch. We ordered our food and talked for awhile as we waited for it.

“What are you thinking?” I smiled, my brow arching up when I caught him staring at me.

He smiled that sexy Axel smile that turns me to mush everytime. “When we’re together I’m not thinking about anything other than how beautiful you are.”

“Pang-ilan na ako sa mga babaeng pinagsabihan mo niyan?” My eyes rolled.

He laughed, taking my hand that was placed on the table and brought it to his lips.  “Ikaw pa lang. There’s no reason for me to lie to you.”

My smile grew big. “Okay, I believe you.”

“I was completely floored the first time I saw you in the hospital.”

“Yeah and then you slept with all my friends. I believe you.” I sarcastically said.

“Well, that’s because I knew I couldn’t have you.” He sighed. “You don’t know how many times I’ve imagined it was you I was fucking.”

“Axel!” I squeezed his hand, feeling uncomfortable with his vulgar language in public. I love hearing it when we’re making love but not here where anyone could hear it.

He snickered quietly. The waiter started serving us our food and as we were about to eat, I suddenly noticed something. I saw Tristan sitting by the window just a few table away from ours. Akala ko nagkamali ako ng tingin pero ng tignan ko ulit, I knew it was him.

Axel turned his head to where I was looking at and his face suddenly paled when he saw them. “I-is that your brother?”

“Yes.” I answered.

“We have to go.” He said.

“Why? But we barely even touch our food.”   I whined.

“Val, we need to go.” He said in a hurry as he got to his feet. He took out a wallet from his pocket and left a few peso bill on the table. He grabbed my hand and I had no choice but to get up and walk out of the restaurant with him.

“Axel, ano bang problema?” I asked.

“Your brother might see us.” He said as we were walking.

“Ano naman kung makita niya tayo? Wala naman tayong ginagawang masama.”

“You don’t understand…”

 “Yes, I don’t understand why you have to keep me a secret!” My voice raised as irritation started getting the best of me. “Why don’t you want my  brother to know? Why don’t you want anyone to know about us! Bakit ba parang ikinahihiya mo ako?”

He stopped walking and turned to face me. He cupped my face, looking at me with sad, warm eyes. “Val baby, I’m sorry. I’m so sorry you think that.” He kissed me on the forehead. “I would never be ashamed of you. You don’t know how bad I want to let the world know that you’re mine but I just need a little more time.”

“If you’re really serious with me, hindi ka matatakot malaman ni Tristan ang tungkol sa atin!” I tried to move his hands away from my face but he held me firmly.

“Val, you know I’m serious with you. Gusto ko kapag humarap ako kay Tristan at sa daddy mo handa na ako. Please, Val, sana maintindihan mo ako. Will you please have a little faith in me? In us?”

I sighed. My eyes lowered to the floor, not wanting to look him in the eyes. I may have overreacted a bit but could you blame me for needing a little reassurance? It was hard to push aside the doubts I still have about how much chance there acually was that we could turn this to a proper relationship. I wanted a normal relationship where everybody knows about us. Why couldn’t it be like that?

In the end I tried to understand. I forced out a smile.

“I love you.” He said.

“I love you, too.” I softy answered back.

His head lowered to mine and he gave me a kiss on the lips. I knew the day would come when we would finally tell everyone about us but until then he reminded me again why it was worth all the hassle that came with keeping it our little secret.

We were both silent as we drove back home. I couldn’t think of anything to say. Masama pa rin ang loob ko, oo, pero naiintindihan ko naman siya. There was no need to rush, we could only take one step at a time.

He opened the door to his unit and we were immediately greeted by a very strong fresh flower scent. He opened the lights and I was in complete awe when I saw flowers everywhere. Baskets and baskets of freshly cut flowers everywhere.

“Axel…” I gasped as I looked around.

He smiled, picking up a stem of white rose and handing it to me. “Happy first month. I’m sorry I ruined it for you, baby.”

I took it from him and wrapped my arms around his body, resting my head on his chest. “No, you didn’t.” I sighed.

“I’ll make it up to you. I promise you, our first year together will be way better than this.” He whispered to my ear as he stroked my hair.

“Well, we still have the rest of the day.” I playfully wiggled my brows up and down.

He chuckled a little and after it died down, he looked at me with so much love in his eyes. “God, I wonder what I did to deserve you but whatever that was, I’m glad I did it.” He said before kissing me on the lips.

Chapter Thirty One

Axel’s POV

I hated the fact that Valerie thinks that I was ashamed of her. That was not true. Hell, she had no idea how much I wanted to show her off to the world. I wanted to make every man who looks her way jealous because they’ll know she’s mine and they can’t have her. She’s the one who should be ashamed of me for being a fucking coward. I really hated myself for that.

She never questioned me again after what happened. But despite that, I still felt bothered. I didn’t want her to ever think that I was ashamed of her or that I wasn’t serious with her. I wanted to prove to her that that wasn’t the case. Kaya naisipan kong dalhin siya sa dalawang importanteng tao sa buhay ko. I didn’t want her to feel like I was keeping her a secret. I just wished she knew our situation was hurting me as much as it was hurting her.

Valerie’s POV

The uniformed security guard opened the tall and elegant gate for us and Axel drove in. We drove by the huge marble fountain in the circular driveway before he pulled up in front of the chateau styled mansion.

I turned my head and looked at Axel with a confused look on my face. He just gave me a smile. Before I could even ask what we were doing here, he got out of the car and ran to my side to open the door for me.  He then extended his hand for me and helped me out. I wrapped my arms around of his and we started walking in.

“Whose house is this?” I asked, letting my eyes wander around. The inside of the house was no less impressive than the outside. Everything looked elegant and sophisticated.

“Axel, honey.” Said a sweet and gentle voice. My head turned to the voice and I saw a beautiful and slender woman walking towards us. She had a clear face, the few lines and wrinkles on it spoke of her age. She looked middle age but someone who had aged gracefully. Have I seen her somewhere.

She gave Axel a hug before turning her attention to me.  “And you must be Valerie. I’ve heard so much about you.” She said before giving me a warm hug and a cheek to cheek kiss.

“Val, I’d like you to meet my mother.” Pakilala ni Axel.

I suddenly tensed up at what I heard. That was why she looked familiar. Nakita ko na siya sa photo album noong nagpunta kami sa lake house nila. Oh my god! I suddenly didn’t know what to say or how to act. I was baffled for a few seconds.

“Good evening, Mrs. Lavigne.” I smiled when I finally had the chance to pull myself together. “Nice to meet you.”  

“Just call me tita Charlotte.” She said with a warm smile. “I’m so glad to finally meet you. You really are beautiful.”

“Thank you, tita Charlotte.” I shyly said.

“Siya nga pala, naghanda ako ng dinner para sa inyo. Shall we?” She said before heading towards the dining room and we followed behind her.

“Bakit hindi mo sinabi na dito pala tayo pupunta?” I whispered to him, giving him a soft slap on the arm. I was so unprepared for this. I was scared I would do or say something stupid and they would think I’m unworthy to be their future daughter-in-law.

“Relax. My family won’t bite.” He laughed.

“Do you think they’ll like me?” I softly asked.

“I’m sure they will and even if they don’t, I’d still love you.” He smiled, giving me a kiss on the side of my head.

“Tignan mo yang dad mo, gabing-gabi na ayaw pa rin magpaawat sa pag golf.” She stood in front of the wide and open door to their backyard. It was big and spacious but it didn’t have a lot of stuff in it. Other than the small patio at the corner, it was just grasses and golf course. Axel’s dad was standing in the middle of the backyard with a tiny, white ball on the ground in front of him and was getting ready to swing the golf club.

“Augusto!” Tita Charlotte called him. He jerked his head towards us. “Your son is here. Pumasok ka na muna dito ng makapagdinner na tayo.”

He swung the golf club and hit the ball.  Pagkatapos ay itinabi niya na ang club sa golf bag na nasa tabi niya. And then he began to saunter towards us. Axel’s father looked so much like him. Nakikita ko na sa kanya kung ano ang magiging itsura ni Axel pagtanda niya. The old man still looked handsome even with grey streaks in his dark hair. It only made him look more wise, dignified and refined.  I wouldn’t mind Axel looking like the twenty to thirty years from now.

“Dad, this is my girlfriend, Valerie.” Axel introduced me to him.

“Please to meet you.” He looked very intimidating until he smiled. He held his hand out to me. “Augusto Benedicto Lavigne.”

“Valerie Zamora, sir.” I introduced myself as I took his hand.

 After our handshake, he wrapped an arm around the back of his wife’s waist and gave her a peck on the cheek. His hard face suddenly softened when he looked at his wife which I found really cute. Ganyan din kaya kami ni Axel kapag when we get a bit older?

The couple invited us to the dining table and we all sat there together.

“Valerie, try this, honey. Ako ang nagluto niyan.” Tita Charlotte said as she held out a plate of pasta.

“Thank you, tita.” I took it and put some on my plate.

“Do you happen to know my son’s friend, Tristan Zamora?” Tanong ng dad niya.

“He’s my brother.” I answered.

“You’re the daughter of Jaime Zamora, the owner of the Zamora Plantation?”

“Yes.” I nodded my head.

“I’ve met him before at a fund raising event years ago. He’s such a lovely person.” Axel’s mother said, smiling. “A very simple and humble man.”

“I rarely see him at social events.” Sabi naman ng dad ni Axel.

“Ayaw na ayaw niya kasing naiiwan ang hacienda, he’s very hands-on with it. Doon daw kasi nila binuo ni mommy ang pangarap nila at pamilya namin. It’s his way of preserving her memories.”

“That’s so sweet.” Tita Charlotte said.

“He’s doing what he loves to do and I do what I have to do. If I had the choice, gusto ko ng magretire. But I can’t trust the business my family has built for six generations to a grown man who acts like a college frat boy.”   He said as his eyes gazed at Axel.

Axel huffed like a teenage boy.

“Yan kasing batang yan napakatigas ng ulo. The more you stop him, the more he’ll do it, just to prove his in control. Look what happened to him and his-”

“Augusto!” Tita Charlotte scolded.

Suddenly everyone went quiet. The whole atmosphere turned thick and heavy. Axel’s face seemed to darken. We finished our dinner quietly and after that, Axel’s dad invited him to play golf with him. Naiwan kaming dalawa ni tita Charlotte.  

“Tita Charlotte, thank you for the nice dinner.” I said, giving her a kiss on the cheek.

“You’re welcome.” She gave me a warm smile. “I’m sorry about what happened earlier. Yan kasing mag-ama ko hindi magkasundo dahil parehong pareho sila ng ugali. Gusto nila sila ang palaging tama, walang gustong magparaya. Ganyan lang ang dalawang iyon pero kita mo mabilis din magkasundo.” She said, shaking her head as she watched the two.

“I understand.” I smiled.

She suddenly held both my hands and looked me in the eyes. “At tungkol naman kay Axel, please be patient with him. Alam kong mahal na mahal ka ng anak ko kaya sana huwag kang mapagod na mahalin siya.”

I nodded my head at her.

“Thank you, hija.” She said and gave me a tight hug. Tita Charlotte and I talked a little bit more before Axel came up to me. Nag-aya na siyang umuwi pagkatapos niyang makipaglaro ng golf. Nagpaalam na ako sa mga magulang niya and just as we were about to leave, I felt the urge to go to the bathroom. Iniwan ko muna sila sandali. I answered nature’s call and went back to where I left them.

“I like Valerie for you. She brings out the best in you.” Narinig kong sabi ni tita Charlotte. I couldn’t help but to smile when I heard that. I stopped to where I was so I could hear their conversation and what his parents thought about me.   “Does she know?”

Axel shook his head.

“Are you going to tell her?” She asked. My brows furrowed. Tell me what? Was he keeping something from me?

“I don’t know.” He quietly said but it was audible enough so I could hear.

Tita Charlotte sighed. “It’s been years. Fix what you have to fix.”

“I will.” He nodded his head.

Doon na ako lumipat sa kanila. I wrapped my arms around Axel and he was a bit startled. “Kanina ka pa nandyan?”

“No, I just got here.” I lied.

Nagpaalam na kami sa mommy niya and I thanked her again before we left. I never bothered to ask what he and his mom were talking about. I didn’t know if it was because I didn’t have the guts to or I simply didn’t want to know.

Chapter Thirty Two

Valerie’s POV

I stroke my fingers over his chest. Even after making love, after touching every little inch of his body, I just couldn’t stop touching his skin and muscles. He looked down at me with hooded eyes and smiled. We were both loose and relaxed.

“Hindi ka pa ba inaantok?” He asked in a low, sleepy voice.

“May gusto ka bang sabihin sa akin?” I asked. As much as I didn’t want to admit, the conversation that he had with his mother bothered me a lot. It had been more than a week ago but I just couldn’t stop thinking about it. The more I tried to stop thinking about it, the more I thought about it. What don’t I know? What was he keeping from me? Natatakot akong malaman but at the same time I wanted to know.

“Huh?” He looked at me confused.

“Kung may gusto kang sabihin sa akin makikinig ako. You know I love you right? You can tell me anything. Nothing you could say would ever stop me from loving you.” My fingers trailed up to his jawline.

He paused for awhile, as if he was thinking, before he sighed and smiled again. He caressed a hand down my hair. “Nothing. Nasabi ko na naman sa’yo ang lahat ng gusto kong malaman mo pero kung gusto mo sasabihin ko ulit iyon. You’re beautiful, you have a world class pussy, and I love you.”

I laughed and playfully slapped his chest. “How could you be so sweet and bastos all at the same time?”

He laughed with me and silence took over when our laughter died down.   After a few minutes, I thought he was finally asleep. Whatever it was, I’m sure it couldn’t be that bad, right? I love him and I trust him. Maybe he just needed time, he’d tell me when he’s ready. I snuggled closer to him and closed my eyes.

“Val?” I heard his voice just as I was about to sleep.

“Yeah?”

“I’m flying to Italy this weekend.” He said.

I propped myself up with my elbow on his chest. “Why? What are you going to do there?”

“I have some business I need to take care of me.” He cupped one of his hand on my cheek.

I pouted my lips. “How long are you going to be there?”

“Maybe one to three days at most.” He said, giving me a rueful smile.

“I’m going to miss you.” I layed my head down to his chest.

“I’ll miss you too.” He said and I felt him kiss me on my hair.

Last night, I had dinner with Axel before dropping him off the airport. I hadn’t spoken to him since. I spent the whole day with my three bestfriends Trina, Venus and Amy. We did some catching up and some pizza eating. Inaya nila akong magclubbing pagkatapos nun but I decided to just head home.  I was alone tonight, no Axel. I wasn’t used to coming home alone to an empty house. I took a bubble bath in the tub and got in my nighties. Ginamit ko ang laptop ni Axel to check if he was already online. I’d been trying to contact him since this morning. Siguro natulog pa iyon pagkalapag ng eroplano.

After an hour, I was relieved when he finally went online. We video chatted over skype.

“Good afternoon.” He said when his face popped up on the screen.

“Good evening.” I smiled. “I’ve been trying to call you since this morning.”

“I’m sorry, baby. Nakatulog agad ako pagdating ko sa hotel. I was so jetlagged.”

“How are you? How’s Italy? And how was your flight?” I couldn’t help bombarding him with questions. I was just so happy to see him again kahit sa computer lang.

“I’m good, Italy is great, flight was good. Did you lock the door and turn on the security alarm?” He asked.

“Yes, I did.” I answered.

“Good. Keep your phone beside you before you sleep and don’t forget to put the security’s number on speed dial just incase something goes wrong.” He reminded me for the nth time.

“Huwag ka ngang OA. This condominium is like the most secured building in Manila.”

“I can’t help it. Wala ako sa tabi mo at mag-isa ka d’yan. Of course, I’m going to get worried.” 

“I’ll be fine, I promise. Akala ko wala ng makakatalo sa pagka-overprotective ni Tristan at ni dad.”

“I just want to make sure you’re safe. So, how did your day go?” He leaned down to his seat.

“It went pretty good. I met up with Amy, Trina and Venus and we went shopping and had lunch together.”

“Mm, you’re wearing my favorite nighties.” He said as he looked at me through his screen with a cheeky glimmer in his eyes. Bumaba ang tingin ko sa suot kong pantulog. A powder pink satin nightgown that revealed a generous amount of my cleavage. “Are you seducing me?”

“No!” I quickly answered. “I just wore the first thing that I grabbed in the closet.”

“Do you remember the last time you wore that? I came on that pretty dress.” He said.

“Axel!” I did remember and the memory of it made me grow warm and moist between  my thighs.

“I want you, Val.” His voice was more gruff this time. “How can you do that? How can you make me want you without a single touch? Do you know how hard I am right now seeing you in that dress?”

T he temperature in the room seemed to shoot up all of a sudden. The desire I saw in his eyes took my breath away. I was getting turned on and he knew it. I was addicted to him as much as he was to me.   

A devious idea came into my mind. It would be fun if I tease him a little. I pushed my breasts together between my arms and leaned over to the cam. “Like what you’re seeing?”

“You’re such a fucking tease.” He said, frustration evident on his voice.

“And you fucking love it.” I playfully giggled, looking directly on the cam and smiling.

“I fucking do, alright.” His voice was ragged. “I want to make love to you. I want to touch ever part of you, show you how mad you drive me. I want to leave you breathless with pleasure and desperate for me.Can you imagine what I would do to that perfect little body of yours if I were there?”

I took in a shallow breath. What he said sent shockwaves of arousal throughout my whole body. I felt like I was on fire. I would’ve said something racy to tantalize him but this was his game. I knew I would never beat him at this.

“Bilisan  mo na kasi ang trabaho mo d’yan para makauwi ka na dito.” I tried to keep my voice steady and composed.

 “Fuck, Val, I can’t wait until I get home. I can’t wait to make you shake and scream in pleasure. I want you now.”

“I want you too.” I mindlessly whispered.

There was a dark amusement in his eyes. We were silent for a few moments. My stomach fluttered with playfully butterflies as I anticipated the next word from his mouth.

“Val baby, will you pull your dress down for me? I want to see those beautiful breasts.” He asked.

I gasped inwardly shocked at his request. My heart thumped madly inside my chest. The desire I had for him was almost intolerable. My hands seemed to have a mind of its own and began reaching for both the straps resting on my shoulder and slowly pulled it down until I was feeling the air on my bare breasts.   I couldn’t believe I easily allowed myself to submit to his request. Now I was in front of the cam with my breasts exposed. The desire overpowered the arousal I felt.  

“That’s my good girl. Now I want you to cup them in your hands like I do to you and pinch your nipples.” I did as I was told. I cupped my breasts and pinched my nipples. I let out a small moan from the back of my throat and closed my eyes, imagining it was him. “Val, don’t close your eyes, look at me. That’s it, pinch them hard, twist them. I know you like it when I do that  to you.”

I could feel my panties dampening with each second that passed. It was too intense. It was turning me unbelievably on, watching him watch me touch myself for him.

“Now I want you to spread your legs wide open. Show yourself to me.” He said after a moments later.I moved back from the laptop and leaned against the headboard so he could see. I spread my legs apart, revealing the awfully thin and skimpy cloth that was covering that part. “Stroke yourself, baby. Stroke yourself for me.” My hand went down and I bit my lower lip to keep myself from moaning. My fingertips skimmed over my panties.

“Take your panties off.” He commanded. My hand went to the garter of my underwear and I pulled it down my legs until I was completely naked, all for him to see “Open wide. Show me your pussy, show me what’s mine.”

Like an obedient girlfriend I was, I did what he told me to do. I showed him what was his. I used two fingers to spread my folds apart, showing him a good view of  my womanhood.

“God, you’re beautiful.” He breathed out.

“Axel, please…” I begged as I felt the heat growing between my thighs. “I want you. So bad. I miss you.”

“I miss you too. I’ll be home as soon I can, I promise.” He groaned. “I want to touch you so bad. Do it for me. Touch yourself for me, Val, and tell me just how wet you are.”

I bit my lower lip as my fingers glided down and rubbed my sensitive spot, sending waves of pleasure through me. “I’m soaking wet…”

“Does it feel good? Do you like it?” He groaned. This was definitely stimulating to him as it was to me.

I nodded while eliciting throaty moans. It did feel good but not as good as having him touch me.

“Play with yourself and pinch your nipples with your free hand.” He said. There was something about Axel commanding and watching me that drove me wild and did unexplainable things to me. My right hand went back to my breast and I massaged it while I pleasure myself.

“I wish your warm little mouth was wrapped around me. I wish you were the one doing this to me.” He said through labored breath as I watch him stroke his shaft.

“Axel…”

“Fuck yourself with your finger. Imagine it’s my cock.”

I pushed two fingers in my opening, moving it in and out of me. I did exactly what he told me to do, imagining it was erection inside me. “Oh Axel, I want you right now. I want your big, thick cock inside me.”

He groaned loudly at my words and started stroking himself furiously.

In no time, I was writing in bed. It was uncontrollable, I could feel the hot pool inside my belly ready to explode.

“I’m going to come.” I moaned.

“Me too, baby. Wait for me.” His voice was strained.

And we both came almost at the same time. I pulled the blanket over and covered my body after that.

“You’re a dirty girl, aren’t you?” He said with a smug, satisfied smile on his face.

“Only for you.” I answered.

“That was hot.” Axel chuckled as he buttoned his pants.

“It would have been better if you were here. It still doesn’t beat the real thing.”

“I know but I’ll be home soon.” He uttered under his breath.

Axel’s POV

I watched Valerie on the screen as she peacefully slept. She didn’t turn her laptop off when she went to sleep. I asked her not to. I wanted to see her as I worked on my laptop. Her beautiful face was soft as she slept. There was peacefulness on her face. Damn, I love this woman. I love that there’s a side to her that only I could see. She was like a drug to me and I would do anything to get my fix of her.

I’m sorry, Val.

God knew how much I love this woman. I didn’t want to hurt her. I didn’t want her to think that I deceived her. I should’ve done this a long time ago, before we’ve even been together.

I looked at the clock. I had already called her yesterday and we decided would meet up at a local restaurant today. I just wanted to get this over with. I wanted to close that part of my life.

I headed to the shower, put on a decent outfit and went to the restaurant. I sat there and waited for her. I didn’t know what to feel. We hadn’t seen each other for years. The only thing I was sure of right now was that I wanted to end whatever was still tying us together so I could freely have the life I wanted with Valerie. I wanted her to be my wife and I wanted her to have my children.

I was young and stupid. It was the biggest and dumbest mistake I had ever made.

I jerked up to my seat when I saw Guiles walking towards me. She stopped in front of my table and stared for a little while, she forced out a smile. I gestured for her to seat on the chair across from mine. She flipped her long and wavy auburn hair over her olive shoulder. Her mother was a filipina and her father was Italian.

“Hey, how have you been?” I asked breaking the silence between us.

She smiled, not taking her gaze off me, as if she was memorizing my face. “I-I’m fine. I’m so glad to see you again.”

Kinapa ko ang nararamdaman ko para sa kanya.

I smiled back at her. Seeing her now, I didn’t feel an ounce of hatred in my heart anymore. If anything, I should be thanking her right now. If she hadn’t cheated on me, we’d probably still be together and Valerie and I wouldn’t have happened.

I also realized that the feelings I had for her doesn’t even come close to the love I feel for Valerie. What Valerie I have right now was very different from what Guiles I had before. It wasn’t love. It was pure stupidity and stubborness.

Dad was right. Maybe I only did it because I wanted to prove I was in control. I was young and they tried to talk me out of marrying her which only made me want to do it more. It was just a rebellion. A stupid, fucking rebellion.

“Glad to see you too.” I said. “I brought the divorce papers with me.”

  Her face darkened as she looked down the papers resting on top of the table. I pushed it towards her.

“Divorce?” She looked up at me as if she couldn’t believe it.

“Yes, I already signed them. Ang pirma mo na lang ang kailangan.”

“I… Axel, “ She sighed. “I need time to think this through.”

Chapter Thirty Three

Axel’s POV

“What do you mean?” I asked, flabbergasted. I kept a collected demeanor, hoping to keep the stir in my stomach under control. “You don’t need to think this through. Just sign the paper.”

“Axel, I don’t want a divorce. I want our marriage to work out.” Her lips quivered as tears formed in the corners of her eyes. This wasn’t what I expected her to say. I walked into this restaurant with absolute confidence that what I expected to happen would happen. She would sign the papers without hesitation and I’d leave a legally single man. What the fuck was going on?

“You’re being absurd.” That was all I had managed to say.

“I think I’m actually making sense for the first time in years.” S he forced a smile but her eyes said differently.

“Guiles, we have our own lives now. Hindi na mangyayari ang gusto mong mangyari.” My eyes flared with impatience. I tried to keep my voice steady but it became increasingly difficult, I couldn’t help the edgy roughness that rose from my throat. “I don’t want anything to do with you anymore.”

“I made a mistake of leaving you. I was young. We were both young. I was scared because I didn’t know how to be a wife. I felt caged and confined, I wasn’t responsible enough to keep up with the role I was playing. I know you never controlled me but I felt like I had to live up to being a good wife to you.” Her eyes flooded with tears, her voice broken and shaking as she spoke. “I felt myself changing and that scared me. I wanted to feel free again- uninhibited. I had an affair just to confirm my freedom. When you found out about us, umalis ako, sumama ako sa kanya kasi akala ko iyon ang gusto ko. Nagkamali ako. It only made me realize how much I love you. How much I would be willing to give up my freedom to be with you.”

Everything she said didn’t matter anymore. Nothing could be done now. It was over. Kahit ano pa ang sabi niya hindi na mababalik ang nararamdaman ko para sa kanya. I didn’t feel hate or resentment. I only felt indifference- indifference mixed with the desire to simply get over it.

“I’m with a wonderful woman now. I love her more than anything in this world and I can’t live without her. You’re right. We were both young and stupid and we had no idea what we were getting ourselves into. We treated marriage as a game. I only married you because I wanted to prove to my parents that they were wrong about us. What we had wasn’t love. I only realized it when I fell in love with Valerie. The feelings I have for her, that’s what love’s supposed to be, that’s how it’s supposed to feel like.” I didn’t feel a bit guilty about admitting it. It was the truth. The relationship I had with Guiles was shallow, based on little more than physical attraction and sex. No depth. The things I feel for Valerie, I never felt for anyone else.

Her hands reached to one of mine that was resting over the table. She held it tightly, her eyes bore into me with desperate plea, swelling with tears. “Mahal kita, Axel. I tried to reach out to you, you know that! Sinubukan kong bumalik sa’yo noon. Sinubukan kong ayusin ang relasyon natin. Ayaw mong makipag-usap sa akin. You changed your number, you left our home, I emailed you, I sent you letters but I never heard back from you. I wanted to fix our marriage but I just didn’t know what to do.”

I gently slid my hand from her grip. “I think it’s past time for us to move on and start a new life.”

“I can’t.” She shook her head.

I closed my eyes and leaned back against my seat. This was harder than I thought it would be. I didn’t know what the right words to say, I wasn’t prepared for this. We had been estranged for years. I hadn’t seen her or talk to her for three years. I didn’t expect any explanation from her. I didn’t expect that this would happen. I just wanted her to sign the goddamn papers. What she was doing now was completely out of character. The Guiliana I knew wouldn’t do what she was doing now. She wouldn’t be crying and begging. I remembered when I walked into her having sex with another man in our own bedroom. She was surprised but still collected. I sat on the living room, shocked as I waited for them to get dressed. They walked out of the bedroom like nothing had happened. The guy left and we calmly talked the situation over. She said she was sorry like someone would apologize for being late. Yes, she apologized to me that casually. I told her to leave, she stood up, went to our bedroom and came out with luggages in her hand. She said she loves and that she was sorry but she didn’t beg me to forgive her. She didn’t cry. 

I let out a deep breath and I lifted my eyes up to her. “Tapusin na natin ito. This marriage is a huge mistake.”

“No… We can make this work. Handa na ako ngayon. I know better now.” She desperately said. I knew I couldn’t convince her to sign the papers. I knew nothing I say right now would. And I couldn’t for her to sign it. I was just wasting my time and breath.

I got to my feet. She followed me with her eyes, looking up at me. “Axel…”

“My lawyer will talk to you regarding this matter. Wait for his call.” I calmly said.  

I turned and headed toward’s the restaurant’s door to leave. She called my name but I ignored her. I hated myself right now. Why did I have to wait until Valerie to end this god forsaken marriage? Three years. I had three fucking years but I did nothing about it. Now I run the risk of hurting her. May balak naman akong sabihin kay Valerie pero gusto ko kapag tapos na ang lahat, kapag maayos na. Akala ko ’pagbalik ko sa kanya masasabi ko na. Maipagtatapat ko na din kay Tristan ang tungkol sa amin ni Val. But I guess that would have to wait a little longer.

“Axeeeeeeel!” Valerie jumped on to me and wrapped her legs around my waist the moment she saw me. She clung to my body like a koala clinging to a tree. I firmly held on to her bottom with both my hands to keep her from falling. Her arms wrapped around me as she looked down at me with the most beautiful pair of eyes I had ever seen. “Hindi mo naman sinabi sa akin na uuwi ka na pala ngayon. I missed you.” She cutely pouted.

“I missed you too.” I smiled.

Her hands went up to my face, cupping it. She leaned towards me, deeping her head close to mine. She was so close. I could feel her fresh and warm breath on my face. I could smell her citrus facial scrub mixed with her toothpaste’s minty scent. She smelled deliciously clean. I tilted my jaw, wanting her to kiss me, aching for her lips on mine.

“Mwa, mwa, mwa!” She left peck kisses on my lips with exaggerated sounds. I chuckled and impatiently threw her on the couch and positioned myself on top of her, straddled between her legs. Her white camisole nighties hitched up to her stomach, revealing her pink panties. I hated that her panties and my jeans were gettinng in the way between us. Before she could even have time to react, I locked my lips with hers. I gave her a long and passionate kiss, trying to make up for those two days I wasn’t with her. I nibbled her lips, unable to conating myself, my longing and my desire.

She gently pushed me away and turned her head to her side, away from me. “Hep! Mamaya na yan! Ang aga-aga. Kagigising ko lang. Let’s save it for later.”

I buried my head in her neck and grumbled against her skin. Hell, she had no idea how much I wanted her right now. I had been starving for her. But I guess this was enough for now. Her warmth was soothing and everything my body wanted at this moment. She giggled, running her fingers through my hair. “Kwentuhan mo muna ako. How was your trip to Italy?”

“Just fine.” I simply said. And Everything I was trying to forget came back to me. Guiliana and the divorce. She was too fucking stubborn. She didn’t want to sign the papers. She didn’t want to cooperate. I wished I could tell Val about it but I wasn’t able to gather enough courage. I was afraid of losing her.  I took in a deep breath and exhaled.

“Fine? What do you mean fine? Didn’t you have fun?” Her brows raised as she looked down at me.

“I went there for business, not to have fun.” I took her hand and brought it to my lips. “Besides, I couldn’t have fun without you. The only fun I got was when we video-”

“Axel!” She covered my mouth with her hand.   I saw how her cheeks turned a warm shade of red.

I pushed her hand away from my mouth and started laughing. She gave me a frown, turning redder than she had ever been. She looked so embarrassed that I kind of felt bad. I lifted my body up with my elbow to level with her face. “You don’t ever have to be embarrassed with me. That was hot as hell. You are, without exception, the best lover I have ever been with.”  

She rolled her eyes at me but smiled anyway. “You taught me well.”

“I did.” I agreed, nuzzling my nose on her jawline. “I’m honored to be your mentor. There’s still a lot of things I want to teach you.”

“I love you.” She whispered to my ear and I froze. Damn! I felt so fucking guilty. I wanted to get divorced as soon as possible so we could finally be free. Gusto kong sabihin, hindi lang sa kanya kung hindi sa buong mundo kung gaano ko siya kamahal. I wanted to show her off to everyone and let them know I’m a very lucky man for having her.

Valerie’s POV

It was Sunday today. The weather was good so Axel and I had our breakfast at the terrace. It had a nice view of the city and fresh, fresh air. We usually spend the whole Sunday together. We go out on dates or we stay at home and watch tv. It doesn’t really matter what we do, basta magkasama kami. We were having a really nice breakfast when his phone suddenly rang. He said he had to answer it and went inside. When he came back he told me that he needed to go. Mayroon daw siyang emergency meeting na kailangan puntuhan. So I was left here alone to finish my breakfast.

Axel had been acting… different lately. Madalas inaabot na siya ng madaling araw sa library. Sometimes I hear him talking to someone over the phone in the bathroom. Kapag naman nahuhuli ko siyang may kausap sa phone, he would suddenly stop mid-sentence. Madalas na din siyang umalis ngayon ng hindi ko alam kung saan siya pumupunta. Ang palagi niyang dahilan, meeting. I felt like he was hiding something from me.

I shrugged the thought away. Maybe he was just really busy with work. I shouldn’t put too much thought about it. After finishing my breakfast, I headed to the bathroom to take a shower. I thought of what I should do today while I was in the shower. Maybe I should call my friends and invite them out for lunch or maybe I could Nichole and we could watch a movie together at the cinema. I got out of the shower but I still hadn’t figured out what I wanted to do. As I was getting dressed the doorbell rung.

Who could that be? Wala naman sinabi sa akin si Axel na may dadating na bisita. I quickly put on my clothes and went to answer the door. I looked through the peephole and saw a woman standing there. She pressed the doorbell again. I hesitated to open the door but finally did anyway. 

I stared at her, eyeing her from head to toe. She had an auburn and wavy hair, her skin was olive and tan. She wore a blue casual dress. Her eyes were dark brown, her nose thin and so was her lips. She was pretty.

  “Hi.” She gave me a smile. Her red lips curling around her white teeth. “Is this where Atticus lives?”

“Yes, it is but he’s not here.” I coldly answered.

“It’s okay. I’ll just wait for him.” She said and held her hand out to me. “By the way, I’m Guiliana  Di Fiordo.”

She immediately got under my skin. I just glanced at her hand,grimacing and making it obvious that I didn’t want a handshake before I looked back up to her face. She dropped her hand down to her side, still retaining her smile. It annoyed me even more.

“I’m his girlfriend.” I possesively said, giving her the fakest smile.

“I’m his wife.” She said.

Chapter Thirty Four

My nerves was a mess. My hand shook as I lifted the coffee cup in my mouth. I could barely take a sip of my latte, the little sips I took felit like it wanted to  go back up my throat. The panging anxiety in the pit of my stomach was hard to ignore. I put my cup down and lifted my head up to look at her. Guiliana Di Fiordo-Lavigne, Axel’s wife. She was sitting right across me. Cool, calm, confident and unapologetic. While I, on the other hand, was shaky and nervous.

I didn’t believe her at first. I wanted to believe that she was just Axel’s past fling who couldn’t get over him but when I saw the proof, her ID with Axel’s last name, I felt like my world fell apart. We decided to talk about it over a cup of coffee at a coffee shop just across the condominium building.

She noticed me looking at her and smiled. I straightened my back stiffly, faking confidence. But I didn’t know if I could pull this act off. Right now, I was a mess of nerves. I took in a deep breath to calm myself down.

“Valerie.” She said in an eerily calm voice. She looked at me as if studying my reaction. “You’re Valerie right?”

“Yes, I am.” I answered blankly

“Axel has told me a few things about you while we were in Italy.” She kept that fake smile intact on her lips. I swallowed that knot I felt in my throat. My heart felt like it was being squeezed. He was with her when he went to Italy. I wanted to cave in but held myself up. I would never give her the satisfaction of seeing me crumble. I had to keep my act together.

“What did he tell you?” I casually asked as if I was talking to a friend.

“All good, I assure you.” She said and straightened up, her face more serious. “Axel and I are trying to make our marriage work. We’ve had our personal issues and we decided to spend some time away from each other. Axel is a man. I know he had needs and I wasn’t around to ful fill it. Naiintindihan ko kung bakit siya nagkaroon ng extramarital affair at gusto ko rin ipaalam na hindi ako galit sa’yo.”

My sweaty hands clenched into fists under the table while still trying to maintin a relaxed facade. My heart felt like it was going to burst as I held all my emotions back. Totoo ba ang sinasabi niya? I didn’t want to believe it but based on his actions lately, she could be telling the truth. Simula nang bumalik si Axel mula sa Italy nag-iba na siya. Parang palagi siyang may itinatago sa akin. He was always busy, always on his phone or in front of his laptop in his library.

“Pero nakikiusap ako sa’yo, please stay away from him. We’re already married.”

Married. I never thought that word could hurt me this much. I held back a wince. It hurts so much that it felt like I had been physically assaulted. I took in a deep breath. Breathe, Valerie, Breathe.

“You’re a beautiful young woman. Marami ka pang makikilalalang lalaki, yung wala pang asawa. yung hindi pa nakatali.” There was malice in her words, a cold edge to it. Na para bang ipinamumukha niya sa akin kung ano ako. She was rubbing salt on an already painful and open wound.

If she thought what she said would break me, she was wrong. I am Valerie Zamora. Hindi ako sanay na naapi at hindi ako papayag na maapi. I turned my anxiety into strength and confidence. The bitchy side of me was activated.

“Bakit hindi siya ang pakiusapan mong lumayo sa akin?” I said in a mocking smile. Her face suddenly fell and my smile grew bigger. “Can’t he willinly stay away from me? Well, I can’t blame him. Axel and I have great chemistry both in bed and out of it. At katulad nga ng sabi mo, I’m a beautiful young woman.”

I saw how her jaw clenched, her face darkened, her expression turned into a scowl. The bitch in me was rejoicing seeing her riled up like that. Guiliana’s annoyingly cool demeanor disappeared.

“Kapag nagsawa ang asawa ko, iiwan ka niya at babalik din siya sa akin.”

“Kapag.” I gave her the most sweetest smile I could make to annoy her even more. “But I don’t think that would happen anytime soon. Why would he want to go back to a boring, aging wife when he already has a beautiful young woman?

“Go fuck yourself.” She said through gritted teeth.

“I don’t need to. Your husband does that for me.” I smirked. She look at me with a malicious glare and I glared back at her. Agad din akong nagbaba ng tingin and pretend to look at my wrist watch. “Kung wala ka ng iba pang sasabihin, aalis na ako. May pupuntahan pa ako but it was nice meeting you.” I got up from my seat with as much dignity I could muster. I left the coffee shop with my head held high and my dignity intact.

I hailed a taxi and it stopped in front of me. I got in and closed the door. Axel was married. It sank into me like a heavy stone dropping into the pit of my stomach. The tears I had been holding back finally began to pour down my eyes. I sath there sobbing in quiet tears as my whole body shook. I was living, sleeping, making love with a married man all along. Mahal ko si Axel pero hindi ko kayang tanggapin iyon. Kaya kong tanggapin ang lahat wag lang ito.

I asked the taxi driver to take me to Axel’s office where he said he would be. I harshly wiped my tears away and hurriedly got out of the car. I felt like our whole relationship was a lie. He lied about everything and I fell for it. I willingly gave up everything for him. Halos wala na akong itira sa sarili ko tapos malalaman kong kasal na siya. Was I just one of his women? Someone he could bed while he was away from his wife? Kung alam ko lang na kasal na siya hindi ko naman ipagsisiksikan ang sarili ko sa kanya. I would never want to be a mistress. I deserve better than that. 

Now everything was starting to make sense. This was the reason why he was keeping me a sexret. Ang sakit kasi akala ko totoo ang lahat ng ito. I had already dreamt and planned a life with him but I was just a convenience for him.

I’d never before reached a point of anger severe enough to physically hurt someone, but I wanted to hurt him. Badly. My heart was shattered and my pride was battered. I marched to the parking lot with heavy, angry steps. I saw his car parked on the space that was especially reserved for him and decided to take my anger out on it. I looked around, trying to find something to throw at it. I saw a chunk of rock lying on the corner and picked it up. I threw it on his car with every strength I had and it went throught the windshield, smashing the glass into pieces. I imagined it was him, that lying cheating asshole. The car’s alarm went off but I didn’t care. My fingers were twitching, still unsatisfied, as my breathing got heavier. I picked up another rock and threw it again at his car, and another one, and another one. When the securities came, the once beautiful car was already disfigured and the windows smashed.

It didn’t take long before Axel came out. A new wave of anger took over me when I saw him.

“Let go of her.” There was a hint of irriation on his voice when he saw me being held by the securities. The securities slowly let go of me. “Val, anong nangyari dito? What are you doing here?” He worriedly asked and then he gazed at his car. “And what happened to my car?”

“Consider yourself lucky. That could’ve been your dick.” I said through gritted teeth.

“Val.” He slowly stepped towards me.

“I know about Guiliana. I know about your wife.” I felt as if my heart was being squeezed so tightly I could barely breathe. His reaction confirmed everything. He looked like a little boy caught red handed. He was shocked for a moment but quickly recovered.

“Val, baby.” His hands went up and was about to cup my face when I lifted my hand up and slapped him across his face.

“Niloko mo ako! Ginawa mo akong tanga! Kaya kong lunukin ang lahat pero hindi ang maging kabit mo. You know how I feel right now? I feel disgusted for sleeping with a married man!” Tears once again stung my eyes. 

He tried to get closer to me and I lost it. I launched myself at him, hitting him, scratching, shouting profanity. I had never been this angry in my whole life. I hated him so much I wanted to rip him apart. All his I love you’s, his hugs, his kisses, his touches- it was a lie from the start. He lied about everything. I dreamt of a future with him but he was already married to someone else.

When I came back to myself he was firmly hold my wrist and my arms were crossed over my chest with my back against his broad and heaving body. Everything went quiet, nothing could be heard except our heavy breathings and my incohorent sobs. I felt him leave gentle kisses on my hair as his thumbs rubbed my wrists soothingly.

“I’m sorry, Val. Hindi ko ginustong lokohin ka.” He whispered to my ear. I felt him swallow before gently releasing my hands. My knuckled were hurting and bruised and some of my nails were broken. I took in deep breaths before turning around to face him. I was shocked when I saw him. He had scratches on his face and neck and a dark spot on his jaw where I had managed to land a punch. 

His eyes went down to my hands and grimaced when he look at it. He reached for my hands with his and gently stroked my knuckles with his thumb. “You’ve hurt youself.” Mahinang sabi niya.

I snatched it away from him. He looked up at me and I gave him a glare.

“I didn’t tell you because I didn’t want to hurt you.” His voice was soft and gentle, he was talking to me as if I was a fragile creature.

“Bakit sa tingin mo hindi ako nasasaktan ngayon?” No matter how hard I tried to keep my voice steady, it still broke. “I did everything for you. Sinundan kita dito sa Manila, nagpakababa ako para sa’yo, kaya kong tanggapin ang lahat… huwag lang ’to. Ginawa mo akong kabit!”

He took a step closer to me and I retreated away a few steps. “No, don’t even come near me.”

“Val, she means nothing to me anymore. You’re the only one I love.”

Dahan-dahan akong umatras palayo sa kanya at tumakbo. Bumalik ako sa condo niya para kunin ang mga gamit ko. As soon as I got in, I hurriedly went to the closet and took my clothes. Nagmamadaling isiniksik ko ang mga iyon sa luggage. I was determined to leave and nothing right now could change my mind. It was the right thing to do. It was hard as I loved him so much. But it was right to leave.

Chapter Thirty Five

Axel’s POV

I urgently slammed the door to my condo unit open, hoping to see Valerie there. The house was still and quiet, the silence was almost deafening. I slowly walked towards the door to my room and pushed the door handle down to open it. There wasn’t much difference. It was still quiet, empty… no Valerie in sight. I walked in to find some of her clothes scattered on the floor and on the bed, trailing from the closet door. It was as if she had left in a hurry. I let out a curse, I sat down on the edge of the bed to catch my breath. I could feel my body limp. My chest felt heavy.

It slowly sank into me as I sat there feeling like a fucking failure. I lost her. I lost the best thing that has ever happened to me. I fucked up again. I always do. This time she gave up on me. The woman who loved me unconditionally for everything I was and everything I wasn’t gave up on me. The only woman that actually understood me left me. I thought it was the right thing to do. Keep it from her. I fucked up real bad.

Valerie’s POV

“Are you okay?” Trina asked with a hint of worry on her voice as she stroke my hair. “You haven’t left your room for five hours.”

I hadn’t realized I’d been crying for five hours. Bumalik ako sa bahay na tinutuluyan namin magkakaibigan. It was the only place I thought to run to. I wasn’t ready to go back to the hacienda. My friends were the only people I knew I could run and cry to. I told them about Axel and our relationship. I told them we had been living together and I told them about what I just found out today. They listened and comforted me while I cried my eyes out.

Just a good cry, that was all I need and then I would go on with my life. I wasn’t going to let this get the best of me. I would forget about him and move on.

“Yeah. I’m just tired.” My voice squeeked as I swallowed my sob.

“It’s just a guy, you know.” She sighed. “You’ll get yourself another. A better one.”

I sat up, my back against the headboard. I surprised myself when a chuckle rose from my throat. She made it sound as easy as buying a brand new bag. It was the first time I had ever laughed today and it felt so good. She looked at me as if I was crazy but it then she laughed along with me and shook her head.

“You’ll be fine.” She gently said. “Siya ang nawalan, hindi ikaw. Nag-iisa ka lang, no! The ever beautiful Valerie Zamora. Saka hindi naman siya ganun kasarap.” I glanced at her and snickered like a little girl. Oh, we both know how he was in bed. She smiled, rolling her eyes at me. “Okay, fine. Maybe he is… just a little.”

We both burst into laughter. I laughed so hard that tears started pouring it my eyes. I couldn’t stop it even if I wanted to. Soon enough, my laughter turned into quiet tears. She pulled my head to her shoulder and I leaned on it. Trina stroked my hair as I cried again.

The door opened and Venus stood there with a grim expression on her face. “He’s outside.” She said.

“Who’s outside?” Tanong ni Trina.

“Si Axel. He’s looking for Valerie.” Venus answered. “Kausap siya ni Amy.”

They both turned their attention to me. I leaped out of the bed and ran out of the room. Amy was standing in front of the door, blocking it, and I could hear her talking to someone. I quietly walked to the window to the right of the door and peaked out of the curtain. I saw Axel standing outside with his hands tucked into his pockets. His face was dark and tensed.

“For the third time, Axel, wala nga dito si Valerie! Hindi pa siya nagpupunta o dumadaan dito.” I could hear Amy shouting in frustration.

“Don’t hide her from me. Alam kong nandyan siya. Sa inyo lang naman siya tatakbo.” He said in a calm but stern voice. “I just need to talk to her. Please, Amy, I’m begging you.”

Amy subtle glanced at me when she noticed I was there. I shook my head at her as if telling her that I didn’t want to talk to Axel. I wasn’t ready. Hindi pa ako handang kausapin siya at pakinggan ang sasabihin niya. No matter what he would tell me, it wouldn’t change the fact that he was a married man. He deceived me.

“How many times do I have to tell you that she’s not here?” Mataray na sabi ni Amy. “Hindi pa namin siya nakikita. Kahit halughugin mo itong bahay, hindi mo siya makikita dahil wala naman siya dito!”

  Axel took in a deep breath. His shoulders dropped in resignation. His face turned darker, more weary. He looked like he had age a couple of years in just one minute. He turned and started walking away. My heart squeezed as I watched him walking away. I wanted to run after him but I stopped myself from doing so. Letting him go was the right thing to do. And it was the hardest too. Bakit kung ano pa yung tama, iyon ba ang mahirap gawin?

I placed my palm on the window. It was one of the hardest thing I had ever done. It was hard to admit that the person I wanted most wasn’t any good for me. It was hard watching him walk away.

 

Axel’s POV

I called the hacienda. I called Nicole and Cooper. Even the fucking HR guy. Anyone I could think of. But they kept saying the same thing. Valerie wasn’t with them. I was worried and frustrated and I felt helpless. I thought of every possibility of her being okay because if something bad happens to her I wouldn’t be able to forgive myself. I was sitting in my car after going to Nicole, Cooper and Aaron’s house to check if she was there. I wasn’t contented with words, I needed to see it for myself. Wala siya sa bahay ng kahit sinuman sa kanila. I parked my car on the side of the road and called her phone for the nth time but it was switched off. I angrily threw my phone on the passenger’s seat and hit the steering wheel with my fisted hand.

I sped off to a place that I could go to clear off my head. I didn’t want to go home. I was too fuckin’ scared of going home to an empty house. I was scared of the echoing silence of my own home. I was scared of being left alone with my own thoughts. Valerie was all I could ever think about and  the thought of her was killing me. I parked my car in front of the club and went inside. I made my way through the crowd and headed towards the bar to get myself a glass of whiskey. A glass would at least help calm my nerves. I gulped it straight down and asked for another one. I kept drinking, glass after glass, just so I could numb myself.

My mind was already fogged up by alcohol when I thought of one person she could possibly go to. Her brother. Goddammit! Why haven’t I thought of Tristan? I payed for my drinks and hurriedly left the bar. I drove off to Tristan’s condominium without hesitation. Alcohol had already degraded my ability to think clearly. I walked, ocasionally stumbling, to Tristan’s unit and repeatedly pressed the doorbell.

It opened and Tristan stood there with a dazed and annoyed expression. His hair was messy and he looked like he just woke up from sleep. I leaned my arm against the door frame and smiled.

“What the hell are you doing here? It’s two in the morning. May trabaho pa ko bukas.” He said in a raspy voice.

“Where’s Val?” I blurted out.

“Val?” His brows furrowed. “Wala siya dito. Bakit mo siya hinahanap?”

“Dude, don’t hide her from me. I know she’s in there!” I said, losing my cool. I looked behind him to his house and shouted her name. “Valerie!”

“What the fuck is wrong with you?” He gave me a good shove, making me tumble back a few steps. “Bakit hinahanap mo ang kapatid ko?”

“Tell her we’re going home. Hindi ako uuwi ng hindi siya kasama.” My voice slurred with drunkness.

“What the hell?” He looked at me with disbelief for a few moment before giving me a piercing glare. Without any warning, he landed a punch on my face and I fell to the ground. He grabbed me by my shirt and lifted me up. “Are you fucking my sister?”

“Whatever we’re doing, it’s none of your business!” I roared. “I just want Valerie back.”

“You son of a bitch!” He drove his knuckles into my cheek and my face was knocked to the floor. I struggled to sit up, holding myself up with an arm. I winced when I felt pain on my face from his punches. It was enough to sober me up and bring me back to my senses.

“I fucking love your sister!” I shouted at him as I forced myself up. “Please, just let me talk to her. Inaayos ko na ang divorce namin ni Guiles. Tell Valerie she’s the only one I love, Guiles doesn’t mean anything to me anymore.”

“Bastard!” I felt a shooting pain when his fist flew over to my face again, sending me cold to the ground. “That’s for my sister.”

I lifted my head up and before I could even have the chance to sit up, he sent me back to the ground with his fist. Drunk and injured, I didn’t even bother to move anymore. “And that’s for ruining our friendship.”

That was the last thing I heard before I passed out.

 

Valerie’s POV

“Tristan…” I gasped when I saw him sitting on the living room. It was in the middle of the night. I was sleeping, exhausted from crying, when Venus woke me up and told me someone wanted to talk to me. He turned his head to me with a steely expression. I slowly walked towards him and sat on the single couch to his left. “What are you doing here?”

“Totoo ba na may relasyon kayo ni Axel?” He asked, his voice low but piercing.

Hindi agad ako nakasagot. I blinked in surprise.

“Valerie!” He pressed. This time his voice was clearer, louder, firmer.

“Kung anuman ang meron kami ni Axel, tapos na iyon.” I answered, doing my best to hide the shakiness of my voice. It startled me a bit when I heard him cuss angrily. “Nasa tamang edad na ako. You don’t have to be so overprotective of me. You and dad doesn’t have to treat me like a little kid.”

“Axel has a wife! He is married!” He snarled.

“I know.” My voice was soft as my eyes fell to the ground. I could feel my heart clenching into a tight ball and I tried so hard not to let another tear fall from my eyes.

“Alam mo pero pumatol ka pa rin sa kanya?” He brushed his fingers through his hair frustratedly. “And you expect us to trust you with your decisions?” He laughed mockingly. “Is this what you want, Valerie? To be someone’s mistress? Naiintindihan mo ba kung gaano kahirap yang sitwasyon na pinasok mo? You don’t have any idea how hard it is to love someone who’s already married.”

“Now I do…” I swallowed a sob.

He quietly looked at me, this time his eyes were soft, his gaze warm. There was pity and sympathy in his eyes. I roughly wiped away my tears with my hands.

“I only found out about it this morning. Kinausap ako ng asawa niya. Niloko niya ako, Tristan.” I sniffed. I heard Tristan let out a couple of sighs.  

“Come on, I’m going to take you home.” He said in a gentle voice.

After getting my things and saying goodbye to my friends, I hopped into Tristan’s car. There was no point in staying here anymore. I missed my daddy and I wanted to go home. Mas makakabuti para sa akin kung uuwi na ako sa hacienda. I wanted to try to save even just a little of myself. I almost gave all of myself to him. Halos wala akong itira sa sarili ko. Nothing was left for me but to walk away, to give it up. I could live without ever seeing his smile again, never hearing him say my name again, never smelling his cologne or feeling the heat of his body against mine.

I fell asleep during the drive home and Tristan only woke me up when we were finally at the hacienda. It was in the peak of the sunrise when we got there. The sky was clear blue. I took in a deep breath once I got out of the car. The smell of the fresh morning air mixed with the woodsy smell of the trees were lovely. The only noises were birds and the tress rustling together to the relaxing rhythm of the wind.  I was home.   

I excitedly ran inside the house and found dad sitting at his favorite spot, at the veranda having breakfast. I jumped on him like a little girl and gave him a tight hug.

“Daddy, I missed you.” I said, trying to hold back my tears.

 

“Princess…” He brushed his fingers through my hair. “I missed you, too.”

 

“Dad.” We both turned our heads when we heard Tristan’s voice. His face was grim as he stood there. I looked at him with pleading eyes, silently asking him not to tell

dad. He just gave me a quick glance before averting his eyes to dad.

 

“Tristan, anak.” Dad walked towars him, giving him a hug and a pat on the back. “Ikaw ba ang naghatid sa kapatid mo?”

 

“Yes, dad.” He answered.

 

“What did she do this time?” Dad asked, looking at me.

“Can we talk in private?” Seryosong sabi ni Tristan. I knew he would be as heart broken as I was when he finds out.  They went inside and I anxiously waited for them at the veranda. After what felt like eternity, they came back. Dad’s face was uncharacteristically blank, void of any expression. I wanted to cry again when I saw him. He just stared at me for a few moment. I felt like a disappointment and a failure.

“Dad, I’m sorry.” I said when I couldn’t take the silence anymore. The tears I had been holding back fell.

I ran to him and hugged him. I burried my face on his chest and began crying and sobbing like a little girl who skinned her knees.

“It’s okay. You didn’t know. You did the right thing, leaving him and I couldn’t be more proud.” He said in a calm, soothing voice but there was also a hint of sadness in his voice.

Chapter Thirty Six

Axel’s POV

My hand reached next to meet, trying to find the familiar heat of Valerie’s body but all I felt was the cold sheet. I fluttered my eyes open and was surprised to see that I wasn’t in my room. I winced as I tried to sit up, my face and body were tender and sore. The memory of last night came back to me. I cussed to myself at my stupidity. The alcohol took control of me last night and I went to Tristan, looking for her sister. Alam na ni Tristan ang tungkol sa amin. In just a day, I lost a girlfriend and a bestfriend.

I slowly and carefully slid out of bed and went out of the room. I recognized the furnitures in the living room. I was at Wayne’s place? I had no recollection of how I got here. I just remembered going to Tristan’s and being punched by him but I didn’t know how I got here. Bumukas ang pinto mula sa isang kwarto at lumabas si Wayne. He stretched out his arms and yawn.

“Hey.” He said looking at me. “Leaving so soon? Wanna sit down and have some brunch first?”

“How did I get here?” I asked.

“You got so fucked last night.”

“No shit.” My frown grew bigger.

“We’ll talk it over while we eat.” Wayne said as he headed towards the fridge. I sank down on one of the dining chairs, my head pounding and my body hurting like fuck. I felt drained of energy. “Tinawagan ako ni Tristan kagabi. He asked me to come pick you up before he kills you.”

“How do you feel?” He asked as he grabbed a can of beer in the fridge. He sat beside me and opened it up.

“Fantastic.” I sarcastically answered, holding my throbbing temple and massaging it.

“Tinirhan kita ng pagkain. Kumain ka muna ng mawala yang hang over mo.” He said. Only then did I noticed the food in front of me. Garlic rice, longganisa, and sunny side up egg.  The delicious smell of the food filled my nostrils but my appetite was off-kilter still from what happened last night.

“I’m not hungry.” I said.

“Tangina ka, mukha kang panda.” He chuckled, shaking his head as he took a sip from the can he was holding. I threw him a sharp glare. I didn’t find it funny at all. This was no laughing matter. “You fuckin’ had it coming. You shagged his sister. Tinalo mo kapatid niya. Gago ka talaga! Hindi ba binalaan na kita noon? Whatever happened to bros before hoes?”

 “Valerie is not a hoe!” I angrily exclaimed. “It was hard…”

“What was hard? Your cock?” He dryly said.

 “It was hard to stay away from Val.” I answered, not paying attention to his tongue-lashing. I knew I was in the wrong. “I wanted her the first time I saw her and now I’m in love with her. I love her with every bits and pieces of me.” I had never openly and shamelessly confessed my love for someone to my friends before.  Maybe it was because no woman had ever made me feel the way Val did. I had never loved someone the way I love Valerie. It was needed to be said.

“I think Tristan would’ve been more accepting of your relationship with his sister if you were’t married to another woman.” He said. My marriage was never a secret to my friends. They were actually the only people who were present at our civil wedding. Kahit sila sinubukan akong pigilan sa pagpapakasal pero matigas talaga ang ulo ko noon pero hindi ako nakinig. I was fucking stupid to not listen to them.

  “I’m… I’m trying to work on that. Guiles doesn’t want to sign the divorce papers. I’m talking to a lawyer right now.” I sighed.

“I don’t want to say ‘I told you so’ but man, I told you so.” He shook his head. “We knew you two wouldn’t last.”

“Do you think Tristan is still mad at me?”

He threw me an amused look. “Dude, he almost killed you last night. Go figure.”

The door to Wayne’s room opened. “Oh.” Said a surprised woman’s voice. She was wearing a blue striped pajama top, the same pattern as the pajama bottom Wayne was wearing right now. Before I could make out her face she went back into the room and closed the door.

“Who’s that?” I asked.

“Just some whore.” He shrugged uncomfortably.

“I better go now. Mukhang nakakaistorbo na ako.” I said and got up from my seat and made my way to the door. 

 

I dreaded going back to my house only to find it empty with nothing but furnitures and objects. There wouldn’t any Valerie to jump on me when I get home. I opened the door and got what I expected. A cold and empty house. I felt like every bit of life had been sucked out of me, like every bits of my body had been flushed away except for the outer shell. Hollow and lifeless.

I dragged myself in. I’ve done some difficult things and with everything I’d been through, this by far is the hardest.

“Axel.” My head snapped at a woman’s voice. My eyes widened when I saw her walking towards me from the kitchen. My eyes narrowed to mere slit, my hands clenched into fists. Every muscle in my body quivered with anger. I fought the urge to explode. She was the last person I would want to see right now.

“What are you doing here?” I asked in a dark, steely tone. “How the fuck did you get in here?”

“Your door was left unlocked so I welcomed myself in.” She said with shimmering eyes as she forced herself to smile.

“Ikaw ang nagsabi kay Valerie tungkol sa kasal natin?” My jaw clenched.

“I’m still your wife, Axel. She has to know.” She started walking towards me and touched my cheek with the back of her hand. “What happened to-”

“Don’t fucking touch me!” I snapped. She flinched in surprise and drew her hand away as if she had touched a hot stove. “Wala na siya! Are you happy now? You just never fail to make my life miserable, Guiliana!”

“Axel-”

“What the fuck do you want now?”

“I want you back…” She whispered with quivering voice.

“No, I want out of this marriage. Go back to Italy and find another man to screw. I don’t want anything to do with you.”

“Please, Axel, just give me another chance.” Her arms wrapped around my torso.

“Get the fuck away from me!” I roared, pulling her arms away from me and giving her a not so hard shove. She had to take a few step back to keep herself from toppling over. “Get out of here! Huwag mong hintayin mawalan ako ng pasensya. I don’t want to hurt you, Guiles.”

“I wasn’t the only one who was at fault here. May pagkukulang ka rin naman.” Tears began rolling down her cheeks.  “The only times I ever felt your love was when it was convenient for you, when you want someone to fuck. I never heard you tell me the things you told me about Valerie! I never saw your eyes glow whenever you talk about me to other people the same way it did when you talked about your Valerie! I did everything to be a good wife to you and all I wanted was to feel like I was your world. Like I could be… everything you needed. When I left I thought you would stop me but you didn’t. You didn’t even try.”

“Are you fucking kidding me? You cheated on me!” I growled in frustration.

“Would it make much difference if I didn’t cheat on you? If I just decided to leave, would you have stopped me?” She asked.

My eyes lowered to the ground at her question. I tried to be a good husband to her. I made myself believe that she was the one who I truly wanted to be with but there were times when I really regret marrying her when we were still together. I loved her conditionally. I couldn’t deal with her flaws. Her being too needy at times, being too unreasonably jealous, being too possesive. It was suffocating. My friends knew we wouldn’t last, deep down I thought the same way too. The moment she left me, I felt like I could breathe again. It bruised my ego but I did feel free.  

“I thought so…” She let out a sniding smirk. “Don’t you fucking dare put all the blame on me! At least ako may ginawa ako! You just fucking sat there and played the victim card! I’m not going to watch you be happy with someone else! I’m not going to make it that easy for you.”

Valerie’s POV

It had been two days ago since I left Axel. This morning I woke up with an empty space next to me. It was as empty as the feeling in my chest right now. My hand reached over to the space next to me where Axel would be if he was here with me. I felt the bitter sting in my eyes. I held my tears in. I won’t cry. Even if I were alone, I won’t cry.  I laid there for twenty minutes. I didn’t feel like getting up, I really had nothing to look forward to. But I didn’t want to just lay here all day and wallow in self-pity. I would take back myself and regin everything I lost. My pride, my self-respect, my dignity. There are millions and millions of people who’ve had their hearts broken. They’ve survived the heart break and went on with their lives. I will too. Hindi ko ikamamatay ito.

I got up from bed, took a long and relaxing bath, fixed myself and went down to have breakfast. I put on a fake smile before going to the veranda so as not to worry my dad. Kung nasasaktan ako, alam kong nasasaktan din si daddy na makita akong nagkakaganito. One day, I’d be over him. I wouldn’t cry myself to sleep anymore ad I wouldn’t wake up feeling this empty but until then I have to fake it. Tama nang ako na lang ang nasasaktan sa kagagahan ko.   

I found dad having a conversation with David as they walked side by side at the garden.

“Dad.” I called him as I walked to where they were at. I hugged him and gave him a peck on the cheek. “Morning.”

“It’s already afternoon, princess.” Dad smiled. I didn’t really checked the clock before I went down. I guessed I overslept from crying so much last night. “Kanina ka pa hinihintay ni David.”

I turned my head to him and smiled. “Hi, David.”

“Hey.” He nodded his head at me. “I heard you got back from Manila so I thought I’d stop by.”

“It’s so sweet of you. Thank you.” I said.

 “Aayain sana kitang lumabas.” He said, his hand reaching to rub his nape. “I was thinking we might go out for lunch maybe?”

I paused for awhile as he waited for the answer. Would it be a good idea to go out with him? I mean, I didn’t want him to assume that this was a date. Ayaw kong umasa siya na may pupuntahan itong paglabas namin.

“Just a friendly lunch.” He said when he probably saw the hesitation on my face.

Why not? Maybe I just needed to go out a little more to keep my mind from thinking about Axel. Besides, I was already feeling suffocated inside the house. I was fed up of looking and spacing out at the same walls everyday. I looked at dad, asking for permission. He just gave me a smile and a nod.  

I looked back at David. “Sure.”

“I want my daughter back before it gets dark, okay?” He told David in a strict manner. “Take good care of her.”

“No problem. I will, tito.” David nodded.

I shook my head with a grin. He knew what I was going through and as a father he was just being protective of me. He knew how fragile and vulnerable I had being feeling lately. I said goodbye to dad and we went to his car and hopped in. He took me to a restaurant in town and we both had lunch together.

“Why did you go back here?” He asked as we ate.

I gulped down my food, almost choking on it. My eyes lowered to my plate. I didn’t want my eyes to  give me away. “I just… want to.”

“What happened to you and that asshole?”

“I don’t really want to talk about it.”

“You know he’s no good for you. You deserve someone better. Someone who would treat you like the princess you are, someone who would give you the love you deserve.”  He took my hand and brought it took his lips. I quickly pulled my hand back to him.

“I’m sorry, Val.” He sighed.

“Mas mabuti kung magiging magkaibigan na lang tayo, David.” I said.

After having lunch, we went to the park and took a walk for a couple of hours. He was a good distraction but sometimes I find myself wishing Axel was here with me. That he was the one I was walking with, talking with, laughing with. Magagabi na ng mag-aya akong umuwi at ihatid ako ni David pabalik sa bahay. I thanked him at nagpaalam na siya sa akin. It would’ve been easier kung hindi na lang dumating sa buhay ko si Axel. I would still be probably in love with David. He messed up my fairy tale fantasy. A princess meets a dashing knight in shining armor and they live happily ever after. It was supposed to be that simple. David and I could’ve had our fairy tale happy ending but then he came.

Chapter Thirty Seven

Axel’s POV

As soon as I found out where Valerie was, I drove to their hacienda without second thought. Those days I had to spend without her felt like a decade. I couldn’t function properly. I couldn’t fucking eat, I couldn’t sleep. She was all I could think about. I was miserable at best but most of the time, it was worse. I had to sleep every night without her by my side and wake up to the fresh grief of not being with her. Nothing seemed to make sense anymore even the simplest task was a hard work, leaving me feeling even more numb. It was my fault, I had no one to blame but myself.

I just had to see her. I had to tell her that I love her, that she was the only woman I had ever loved like this. That she was the only woman that I would want to spend my whole life with.

My car stopped at the huge wooden gate between the tall stone walls. Two uniformed guards were standing on the either side of it. I rolled the window down when one of the guard approached me. They easily recognized me and let me in. I drove inside the hacienda and a few more miles to Valerie’s house. I pulled up in front of it and got out of the car.

Their front entrance was open so I went in. I called for Valerie and suddenly saw Jaime, going down the stairs. Our eyes locked and his eyes slitted in a glare.

“What are you doing here?” He asked in a controlled but very hostile way.

“Jaime, I want to talk to Val.” I sounded as if I was begging. “Marami akong kailangan ipaliwanag sa kanya.”

“Ganyan ba talaga kakapal ang mukha mo?” Jaime said as he walked towards me. “Pagkatapos ng ginawa mo sa anak ko nagawa mo pang pumunta dito.”

“I’m sorry.” I said in a broken voice. “I didn’t want to hurt Val. That’s the last thing I would want to do. Mahal ko si Valerie. God knows how much I love her.”

“Your words mean nothing. You have already hurt my daughter. I would never let you near Valerie again.” Matigas na sabi ni Jaime.

“Jaime, please…” I said in a weak voice.

“Leave.” He looked really intimidating when angry. Controlled but still very intimidating. “Aalis ka ng maayos o gusto mong tumawag pa ako ng guard para itapon ka palabas ng hacienda?”

“I just want to see her. Kung gusto mong lumuhod ako gagawin ko, payagan mo lang akong makausap siya kahit sandali.”

He shook his head, his face hard and stoic.

“Damn it! She could be pregnant with my child right at this moment.” I said out of desperation. How I wish it was true kung iyon lang ang paraan para hindi siya tuluyan malayo sa akin. Sure there was a possibility but it was very slim, since she had always been careful with her pills.

There was a sudden silence between us. He pursed his lips together and his eyes grew cold. “Kung buntis nga ang anak ko, kaya kong buhayin ang magiging apo ko ng hindi ka kinakailangan. Mas gugustuhin kong maging disgrasyada siya kaysa maging querida.”

My shoulders sagged at his words. Gusto kong magalit. It wasn’t fair. Kahit maliit ang posibilidad na buntis nga si Valerie, hindi ko pa rin maiwasan ang makaramdam ng galit. If she really was pregnant, they wouldn’t want me to be a part of my own child’s life?! It drove me berserk inside. I refuse to be shut out of my child’s life! I shouted for Valerie’s name as Jaime tried to stop me.

Valerie’s POV

I had spend the whole day riding Mitsy around the hacienda, trying to get my mind off Axel. I hated doing nothing. Lalo ko lang kasi siyang naiisip kapag wala akong ginagawa. I got tired after a few hours and put Mitsy back to the stable and then I decided to go back home. Papasok pa lang ako ng bahay ng marinig ko ang ingay sa loob. It was my dad and my body froze when I also heard Axel’s voice. I quickly ran in to find them there. Axel was shouting for me and dad was shouting for him to get out.

“Dad… Axel?” Mahinang sabi ko.

They both turned their heads to me. I looked at Axel. My heart fluttered a little… a lot actually and it took all the strength I had not to break down in front of him. He looked thinner now, there were dark circles under his eyes, his stubbles grew thicker. The emptiness that I had felt since we were apart showed on every part of me and I wished it didn’t. No words were exchanged for a few minutes.

“Val…” His voice quivered with emotions. He slowly took steps towards me. I couldn’t move my legs even if I wanted to. It felt as if I was glued to the ground. He stopped in front of me and cupped my face.

His eyes were glassy with tears. “Val, I’ve missed you.”

I gently eased away from his hands and looked down to the floor. “Please, just leave.” I said, almost in a whisper.

“Ginagawa ko na ang lahat para mapawalang bisa ang kasal namin sa lalong madaling panahon. Matagal ng tapos ang lahat sa amin. It was a stupid fucking mistake, Val. I was young. I didn’t know what love was. I didn’t take marriage seriously. Everything was just a game to me.” He said in a gentle and pleading voice. I saw the longing in his eyes and the pain there too.  “Don’t leave me, Val baby. Please, don’t. I promise you, you’ll never shed a single tear because of me again. I’ll never hurt or disappoint you again. You’re my life now and I’m nothing without you.”

I looked at dad, trying to ask him for help because I didn’t know what to say. His eyes were mellow and sad as he looked at me. He was letting me decide but at the same time, I knew he was sad about it. I could see it in his eyes. I love Axel but I love my dad more. He would never hurt me like Axel did.

“Umalis ka na.” I firmly said.

“Don’t do this to me.” His voice was raspy and laced with pain. “Val, kaya kong tanggapin ang galit mo pero hindi ko kayang mawala ka sa akin.” He took my hands and slapped it against his face. “Sige, magalit ka. Sampalin mo ulit ako. Do whatever you want to me but don’t leave me.”

I swallowed the lump in my throat as I tried to keep my face steady and emotionless. “It’s over, Axel. I don’t want to be with you anymore.” Those words felt like acid in my mouth. It hurt to say it.

“No, no, it’s not over.” He shook his head and tears slid down his cheeks. “It isn’t over. I know you still love me. Tell me you still do.”

I didn’t say anything. I just stood there with a stoic face, afraid that one single movement would cause me to show my emotion. I had never seen him cry before and I was shaken for awhile. He dropped to his knees and wrapped his arms around my waist. He cried and sobbed like a little boy. I fought the urge to hold him, to comfort him, to brush my fingers through his soft hair.

I gathered all the strength I have to pry his arms away from my body. I ran to my room and tears began to fall from my eyes. I promised myself that this was the last time I would cry because of him. I promised myself that I would move one and just focus on picking up the pieces of me that I had lost. I still didn’t how I was going to do it, I didn’t know if I could but with my dad and my brother and my friends behind I knew I would figure it out.

Chapter Thirty Eight

Axel’s POV

I woke up and felt genuinely awful. It was much better when I was asleep, when I couldn’t feeling anything. Right now, I could slowly feel it creeping on me, the chest crushing realization that Valerie wasn’t with me anymore. Reality hits me harder everytime. It was like a reverse nightmare when the nightmare was actually waking up to reality.

I closed my eyes again to try to get back to sleep. I didn’t know how long I layed there, all I knew was that it felt like forever. I didn’t want to get up but the silence made me feel more and more alone, it was defeaning and the loneliness was enough to drive a person mad. I needed to do something. Maybe go out for a walk or run a few miles. I forced myself to get out of bed. I could feel the nothingness washing over me like a wave. The stress, the sadness, the anger, they were the things weighing heavy on me that threaten to break me if I let them.  

Being without her was like missing a piece of myself and all that’s left in its place was a painful and aching emptiness. I missed waking up to her kisses, I crave her lips on mine. I thought of how we used to spend our mornings. How we’d lay together, wrapped up into each other.  It was like I didn’t have purpose anymore, she as my reason for so many things and now she wasn’t here anymore. I wished this nightmare was happening to someone else. I wished everyhing could go back to the way it was.

I took a quick shower and dragged myself out of the room after putting on my clothes. I decided I would go for a run to distract myself from my thoughts. Just as I got out of my room, I heard the pan sizzling from the kitchen. My heart suddenly skipped with hope. I was hoping I would see Valerie cooking our breakfast. Maybe she came back because she had already forgiven me.

I ran to the kitchen as fast as I could and my feet stopped when I saw who was there. I stood there for a moment, trying to take in what I just saw. Guiles was setting up the table with the food she made. She had a plate in her hand and was making her way to the table when she saw me, she stopped and smiled.

“Good morning.” She greeted.

I gritted my teeth. I stayed speechless and motionless. Si Valerie lang ang gumagawa sa akin niyan. It made me angry to see that someone else was doing what Valerie does for me. I never want to see any woman doing what Valerie used to do. I never remember Guiliana making breakfast when we were still together.

“Pinakialaman ko na ang kitchen mo. I made some omelette and bacon.” She said putting the plate over the table. “Kumain na tayo.”

I took big, quick steps towards her and grabbed her by the arm.

  “Hindi mo ba ako titigilan ha?” My voice boomed throughout the room. “Wasn’t everything you did enough?”

“Axel, you’re hurting me.” She squeeked, trying to snatch her arm from my grasp. I had never hurt a woman physically but I felt like I was close to doing so.

“Hindi ka pa ba masaya sa ginawa mo? Hindi ka pa ba masayang sinira mo ang relasyon namin ni Valerie? Do you really enjoy making my life miserable that much?” My fingers dug into her arm.

“I’m not willing to give you up if that’s what you want or let you get away. Ako ang mas may karapatan sa’yo dahil kasal tayo. I’m your wife!” She yelled.

 “I want nothing more than to get out of this marriage and away from you.”

“Let’s give this marriage another shot, please, Axel. Let me be with you, let me show you how much I love you.” She begged desperately. “I’ve learned from my mistake. I promise I’d be the best wife to you.”

I shook my head. “Get out of here!” I dragged her by the arm to the door. Nagpupumiglas siya sa hawak ko and finally freed herself from my grip.

“I won’t let you and Valerie be together, tandaan mo yan! Hindi kita hahayaan na mapunta sa kanya!” She angrily said.

“Fuck you!” I roared. “Kahit maghiwalay kami ni Valerie, hindi ako babalik sa’yo! I’d rather be alone than be with a cheating whore.”

“You don’t mean that.” She gently said, slowly walking towards me. She held out her hand and lightly touched my cheek. “You’re just confused. You still love me. I’ll remind you how much you do.”  She moved her face closer to mine and before her lips could touched mine, I shoved her away from me. She stumbled back and fell to the ground. I didn’t mean to shove her that hard, it was a natural reaction. She stared up at me in both surprise and embarrassment.

I kept a hard expression despite my shock. “Get out of here! Umalis ka na dito bago pa kita masaktan.”

“Please, Axel, let’s just give it another try.” She got up and tried to wrap her arms around me. Kinuha ko siya sa braso at kinaladkad palabas ng pinto. I shut the door closed and ignored her pleas.

Valerie’s POV

It was nice to have a friend to talk to and get my mind off things. Buti na lang palagi nandito si David para sa akin. He was a big help to me. Today we went to town and had lunch at a restaurant. Even though I was with Dave, I couldn’t  keep my attention to him even if I wanted to. My mind was elsewhere. It was with Axel. A part of me regret sending him away, I could’ve been happy with him right now and not feel this miserable but a bigger part of me told me I did the right thing. Niloko niya ako, I hated him for that. Ginawa niya akong kabit. It would be wrong to still stay with him. Hindi ako pinalaki ni dad para maging isang querida. Dad wouldn’t say anything but I knew he’d be hurt kung sumama ako kay Axel. Kapag nasaktan ulit ako alam kong mas masasaktan si dad. It was better this way.

“Val, are you okay?” He asked as we drove back to our hacienda.

I turned my head to him and smiled. “Of course.”

“Just know you’ll be okay without him. Trust me.” He said. The same lies I’ve been telling myself everyday.

I did my best not to let my voice quiver. “I know.”

It was quiet for awhile. I looked out the side window and let the thought of him consume me. I thought I would start feeling better and become used to my days spent without him but I feel worse. I just felt devastated and empty without him. I never realized how full he made my life. I was angry at him but I knew nothing can change the way I feel about him and no amount of time can erase my memories of him even if I tried. He wasn’t just the love of my life, he was so much more but he was never mine… even when we were still together. And that hurt like hell.

I felt my eyes dampening with tears and tried to swallow past the lump in my throat. I blinked away my tears and took in a deep and long breath.

You’re stronger than this, Valerie. You can’t keep on living like this.

I needed to get up from where I fell down and start over again. I couldn’t live feeling sorry for myself my whole life. A part of me knew I couldn’t wallow forever as much as I wanted to. I had to live my life. Kahit wala na siya, nandito pa naman si dad at ang mga kaibigan ko.

 His car stopped in front of our house. He shifted turning to face me and smiled.

“Thanks, Val, I had a great time with you.” He said.

“I did too.” I smiled back at him.

I was quite surprised when he took my hands in his. “Let me just say that you’re beautiful. You’re beautiful and Axel doesn’t deserve you. Val, remember when we were still together and the innocent love we had? You were happy with me, right? I can make you happier that he ever would.”

“David…”

“Damn it! Inagaw ka niya sa akin, Val. You were mine. You said waited for me. Kung mo siya sinundan noon, hindi ka magkakaganito ngayon. I hate seeing you like this. I hate what he did to you. He squeezed both my hands. I wanted to cry but I held my tears back. “Valerie, I want you back…”

 He leaned over to me and before I could react, I felt his lips on mine. He kissed me and I froze. It felt wrong but I didn’t do anything about it. I just let him kiss me because I felt alone and weak and just tired of it all. I felt hot tears stream down my face as I kiss him back.

Chapter Thirty Nine

Valerie’s POV

I kissed him back but only for a second because suddenly all I could see was Axel’s face. I quickly realized what the hell I was doing and drew my head back. It felt nothing, it meant nothing. I didn’t feel anything but guilt and shame. He looked so full of hope, so happy. I wished I could take back what I had done. Loneliness could make you do stupid things. It put your defenses at an all-time low. There was nothing more I wanted at that moment but to leave and ran to my room. And so I did. I said bye to David and ran.

As soon as I got in my room, the mask fell and so did the tears. In the day, I make out that I’m fine, that I’m tough, but when the night comes everything just hits me all over again. I missed him but I knew this had to stop. It was exhausting and it was taking a toll on me. I needed to stop crying myself to sleep. I needed to stop thinking about him. It was too painful for me. I gave all I could give him and that was enough. I’d made my decision now, I knew what I had to do. This had to end somewhere and I thought now would be the perfect time. I wanted to be happy again.

I opened my sidetable drawer and rummaged for my phone. Axel had been texting and calling me but I never had the guts to answer or read any of his calls and messages. I opened his last message.

I miss you.

Deleted. I felt a tight squeeze in my heart but I ignored it. I deleted all 200 of the messages he sent me, his number, and our pictures together in my phone. It was as if I was deleting him from my life too. This was for the best, for the sake of my sanity.

Goodbye, Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne.

 

Axel’s POV                

It was another one of those days when I felt like I couldn’t get up. I couldn’t do anything and I felt as though I couldn’t get joy out of anything. It was as if life had been sucked out of me since Valerie left. Everything looks and feels dark and bleak. I didn’t know how much I could take before I break.

I wanted to sleep and never wake up again… unless Valerie was lying next to me when I wake up. I felt like I was going crazy, maybe I was already crazy. I never thought having your heart broken could hurt so much but it really hurts like nothing I had ever experienced.

 My phone rang. I ignored it until it finally went quiet. It rang again. Pissed off, I reached for my phone over the bedside table. I thought it was my dad calling me to scold me because I didn’t go to work today but it was my lawyer’s number.

I quickly sat up and answered the phone.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Atticus Lavigne.” Said Atty. Rodriguez on the other line.

“Attorney, do you have any news regarding the divorce?” I asked.

“Actually I do. Do you have time to talk?” He asked.

“Yes, of course.” I answered, my voice slightly elevated.

“Great! I’ll be waiting for you at Sala Bistro.” He said. We said goodbye to each other and I hang up the phone. I jumped out of bed and went straight to the shower. This was nerve-wrecking for me. I couldn’t wait to hear what my lawyer had to say. I was praying and hoping that it would be good news. There was nothing more I wanted than to end this agony and be with Valerie again. I had two lawyers. One in Italy to fix the divorce and my personal lawyer here in the Philippines. They were both the best in their field. I was counting on them.  I didn’t want to spend another day without Val. My sweet, beautiful Valerie.

I put on my clothes after getting out of the shower and drying myself and drove to the restaurant. It only took me fifteen minutes to do all that. I saw atty. Rodriguez sitting on one of the tables, looking out the window and sipping from a glass, as soon as I entered the restaurant. I came up to him and his eyes turned to me, looking up.

“Please, sit down.” He gestured at the chair across him.

I pulled the chair and sat on it. My heart was pouding like hell as we shared a few seconds of silence.

“May dumating sa akin na sulat mula sa Italian court.” He said, breaking the silence between us.

My back straightened, leaning slightly towards him, I was more attentive now. “What does it say?”

He slid the brown envelope that was in front of him towards me. I looked up at him, he didn’t show much expression which made me more nervous. Damn! I had never felt this kind of anxiety and anticipation in  my whole life. I looked back down the envelope and slowly took it.

“Now, before you read it, I just want you to know that we did the best we could.” Sabi niya.

I swallowed to put moisture on my dry throat. Biglang nanghina ang loob ko sa sinabi niya. I didn’t feel like opening the envelope anymore. I wasn’t ready for another disappointment. 

“Go ahead.” He gestured his hand on the envelope. Well, what the heck.

I could feel my hand shook slightly as I open the envelope. Kinuha ko mula sa loob nun ang makapal na papel. I looked back up at my lawyer, he nodded his head as if telling me to read it. My eyes went back to the papers and I started scanning through it.

FUCK! That was the first word I thought when I finally read what was written on it.

“Congratulations, Atticus. It’s all finalized. You’re now a free man.” He said with a wide smile.

“Wow, that was quick! All that in less than two months.” For the first time in what felt like eternity, I let out a smile. It felt weird because I hadn’t used that muscle for quite awhile. I felt free, like an overbearing weight had been taken of from me. As if legs shackles that binded me for a long time had become undone. “I can’t tell you how thankful I am right now. God, thank you so much.”  

After the meeting with my lawyer, I didn’t twice about going to the Zamora’s. I wanted so bad to be with Valerie. The days and nights wishing she was in my arms, they were the days that kept me going. Living life without her was pure torture, the ultimate punishment. Freedom had never felt this good.

It was already night when I got to the Zamora’s but the guards outside the hacienda gate refused to let me in. Nagmakaawa ako sa kanila pero mahigpit daw na bilin ni Jaime na huwag akong papasukin sa loob. I stayed there, outside the gate, for about an hour and desperate to be let in when a black Hummer came. It was Jaime’s car. My car was blocking the gate so he honked at me. Bumaba ako ng kotse at naglakad palapit sa kotse ni Jaime sa likod ko.

He rolled his window down. “Don’t make a scene here, Axel. Hindi mo ba naiintindihan ang sinabi ni Valerie? She doesn’t want to be with you anymore. Respetuhin mo ang desisyon ng anak ko.” He said in a hard voice.

“Jaime, I’m already divorced. I got my divorce decree.” I said. I ran back to my car to get the envelope and showed it to him. Nagpalit-palit ang tingin niya sa papel at akin. After a few minutes, he finally put the papers down and looked at me.

“I just want to see Val. I want to talk to her. Aayusin ko ang gulong ginawa ko.”

“And you think it would be that easy? Sa tingin mo, matatanggap ka ng anak ko ng ganong kadali pagkatapos mo siyang lokohin?” His brow shot up in amusement. “I’m a father, Axel. I’ve seen my daughter cry because of you. I’ve seen how broken she’s been since she came back here. Masakit para sa isang ama na makita ang anak niyang nasasaktan. And you know what’s the worse part? I couldn’t do a thing to stop her from hurting.”

What Jaime said about Valerie made my heart ache. I didn’t mean to hurt her. I wanted to punch myself for hurting her. She didn’t deserve it. The hell I had endured being without her wasn’t enough for what I did to her.

“Unti-unti na siyang nakakabangon sa pagkadapa niya. She’s learning to smile and laugh again. Ngayon ka pa ba babalik sa buhay niya kung kailan natututo na siya maging masaya ulit? Huwag mo na siyang itulak pabalik sa pagkadapa niya.”

“I won’t hurt her again. I promise. I love Valerie more than anything and the last thing I would want to do is hurt her.” I sincerely said, my voice shook. I knew those words weren’t enough to convince Jaime. He just stared at me with a cold, stoic expression. “I know words aren’t enough. Papatunayan ko sa’yo kung gaano ko siya kamahal. I… I’ll do anything to win her back.”

“Anything?” He quietly asked.

“ANYTHING.” My eyes glowed with hope.

Chapter Forty

Axel’s POV

Jaime was looking at me with eyes like steel. Cold and hard. He was very different from his warm and welcoming demeanor, the one I was used to seeing. I couldn’t blame him though. I had hurt his daughter, his princess. We were in his study. I was sitting on the single armchair sofa in front of his desk. The fact that he had let me in their home again, I take that as a good sign.

He cleared his throat. “You’re willing to do anything for my daughter, huh?”

“God knows there’s nothing I won’t be willing to do for her, Jaime.” I said.

“I want my daughter back as much as you want her back.” He looked at me with a serious gaze. “She hasn’t been the same since she came back here. She used to be a vibrant woman, going out and doing things. Her smile and laugh was amazing.”

  I nodded my head in agreement. It was to die for.

“Now it’s as if she’s lost her spirit. She smiles and laughs but it isn’t the same anymore. I know she’s only doing it for me. Alam niyang ayaw kong nakikita siyang malungkot.” His face fell and my I could feel my heart in my throat. I did it to her. It was my fault that she was hurting.

“I’m sorry.” My voice cracked.

“Your sorry doesn’t anything to me. It’s what you do about it.” He said in a stoic voice. “You know, I didn’t start out rich. I had to work way up to where I am now. This whole hacienda, it was just a small land back then. Wala kaming trabahador noon, kami ang gumagawa ng lahat ng gawain dito. I worked from dawn to dusk with my father. Your a man born of privilege and wealth. I doubt you’ve done labor work.”

“I haven’t.” I honestly said.

He gave me a slow nod and he rubbed his chin. “I want my daughter happy again at kung ikaw ang magpapasaya sa kanya, then be it. But that doesn’t mean I would let you off the hook easily. Are you willing to work for me?”

A smile of relief and joy found its way on my lips. “I… I’m more than willing to. Kahit anong sabihin mo gagawin ko para kay Val.”

 

I agreed to work at Jaime’s hacienda. This turned out far better than I expected. Gagawin ko ang lahat bumalik lang sa akin si Valerie. Kaya kong gawin ang lahat, higit pa dito. Jaime took me to where I would be staying at. It was an old, run down tool shed near where the horses were. It didn’t have any light or electricty. It had enough room for just a bed and a little space to walk. May lumang kama na gawa sa kawayan na nakaimbak doon, iyon ang magiging kama ko. It was old, it didn’t have a matress and it had holes and it looked like it was ready to collapse any minute.

It was already late and Jaime left me alone. Humiga na ako sa bagong kama ko. It wasn’t the kind of bed I was used to. It took me awhile to find a comfortable position. It made some parts of me sore. There were bugs climbing over me, flies biting me but I had never felt this happy. This was better than going home in an empty house with Valerie. All these didn’t matter to me, all I cared about was Valerie. Now she was just within my reach. Kung ito ang paraan para mapatawad niya ako at ng pamilya niya, gagawin ko.

I had never slept better since Valerie left until tonight.

Valerie’s POV

I had been doing the same routine everyday. Wakeup, eat, sleep and in between those, I try to distract myself. I tried not to think about him, I tried my hardest not to let my mind wander to the times we spent together, times I was in his arms. I tried to ignore what I was feeling but it was hard when it hurts so much.  All I could do was momentarily distract myself from the pain I feel. It wasn’t so bad once you get used to it. You go on with your life and you learn to live with it.

I had a quick breakfast and after that, I went to the horse stable to take Mitsy out. It was a nice day today. The sun was up but there were high clouds filtering the light. It was warm but not blazing hot like yesteday. Pumasok ako sa kwadra. I was just a few steps in when I saw a familiar figure of a man. My feet stopped like I had hit a glass wall. He had his back turned to me as he was putting food in the horse feeder. He was wearing jeans folded up to his knees and a black tanktop. His muscley back, his biceps, his veiny arms, I was familiar with every part of his body.

I blinked a couple of times to make sure I wasn’t imagining him but the he was still there. I inhaled a sharp breath when it finally sunk into me. He must’ve heard it because his head snapped to my direction. Axel looked at me with his dark and intense eyes. His expression softened when he gazed at me. I just stared back at him wide-eyes. He slowly walked towards him and my heart started pounding hard and loudly.

“W-what are you doing here?” I asked.

“I’ve missed you.” He gently said. He stopped a few inches from where I was standing and he just looked at me as if memorizing my face for a few moment. “Nandito ako para sa’yo. My marriage with Guilianna is over. I’m divorced.”

I opened my mouth but no words came out. It was too late. I had already given up and once I give up, I give up completely. I don’t give up easily and I fight with everything I have but this time I couldn’t do it anymore. I could only take so much.

Everything had changed. I grew up. I no longer looked at him through rose-tinted glasses. I no longer see him like I used to. It was different now. He’d lied to me and I just couldn’t trust him anymore. He said he loves me. Was this what he does to people he loves? He had all the time in the world. Ang dami niyang chance para sabihin sa akin na kasal na siya pero sa sariling asawa niya pa ko nalaman ang totoo. After everything that happened, how could him? How could I even make sure he was telling the truth this time?        

“Please, go.” I said, walking past him and towards Mitsy.

“Hindi mo ba narinig ang sabi ko? I said I’m divorced.” Sumunod siya sa akin.

“I heard it loud and clear.” I took a deep breath. “Pero ayoko na, Axel. Tama na.”

“Val…” He said in a weak voice. “No, you don’t mean that.”              

“But I do.” I swallowed the lump forming in my throat. “I gave everything to you, Axel! Everything… and you didn’t even think I was worth the truth.”

My back was turned to him but I could feel him getting closer and closer… so close, I could feel his body’s warmth and his breath on my hair.

“I’m sorry you feel that way.” He quietly said. “I got scared. Natakot ako na baka pag nalaman mo, iwan mo ako. Naisip ko na sabihin na lang sayo kapag napirmahan niya na ang mga papel, pag maayos na ang lahat. But things didn’t turn out the way I planned. Matagal na kaming tapos ni Guiliana, we’d been estranged for three years. I never bothered divorcing her because I didn’t think I would want to marry again. Marriage meant nothing to me until I met you. God, there’s nothing more that I want but to spend the rest of my days with you.” He wrapped his arms around me and buried his face into my hair.

I chewed on my bottom lip and tightly shut my eyes to keep my tears in. It was so nice to hear but I needed more than words. I guess you could say that what had happened jaded me. I became less trusting, more cynical. Natuto na ako.

“Let me go.” I said, shrugging his embrace. “Iwan mo ako at umalis ka na dito!”

He grabbed me by my shoulders to face him. His eyes were pleading and so vulnerable. “Say you don’t love me anymore and I’ll go.”

My eyes began to water again, my chest tightening and my knees weakening. I felt my emotions exploding. “I hate you! I hate you so much!” Tears fell from my eyes as I punched him on his chest, muttering ‘I hate you’ like a mantra.

He cupped my face and kissed me on the forehead. He showered me with small kisses all over my face as he whispered sweet nothings. I grew weaker and wearker until I eventually stopped. I felt his lips move to the side of mine. I turned my head, away from him. His lips landed on my cheekbone which made it damn worse. My want for him was just as strong, if not more. We both know where this was heading but I had no will to stop him.

He layed me down on a stack of hay in the corner. His hands wandered around my body. He touched me with familiarity. He knew my body more than anyone and better than I do. He knew where it ached, he knew where to touch, he knew where to kiss, he knew what made me crazy. One touch and I was goner.  He took out my clothes without me realizing it. I was so drunk with his touch and kisses that I hardly notice until I felt the wind brushing through my naked body.

He layed his equally naked body on top of mine. His face were leveled to mine. We looked at each other in the eyes. My heart couldn’t possibly beat any faster. His face slowly descended down to mine but before his lips touched mine, I turned away.

“Don’t kiss me…” I whispered. “This isn’t… personal. It’s just sex.”

His body went still, taut with tension. I looked at him and met his eyes, he looked at me with a flash of hurt on his face. I hardened my face and my expression. I toughened myself up mentally.

My fingers brushed through his hair, my fingers tightening on the back of his, tugging at the roots. I pushed him down and down between my open legs, not letting go of his hair. I shivered with pleasure at the feel of his lips against my sensitive and aching womanhood. His tongue lapped against my aching clit then he sucked it gently. I let out a low scream. I propped my upper body with my elbow and looked down at him. I pulled him closer as I thrusted my hips up. I wanted more contact, more of him. His lips covered my womanhood. He kissed, sucked, and tongued me until my eyes were rolling at the back of my head. A wet pool of heat flooded out of me with my orgasm. My whole body spasmed.

“Fuck me.” I softly whispered after recovering from my orgasm. His head went up and he looked at me, his gaze unreadable. I shifted, lying down to my stomach. I didn’t want to look at him in the eyes. I wanted no intimacy. This was just sex. He positioned himself behind me and eased into me. His hands dug on the either side of my waists as his hardness pushed through my wet folds. I moaned at the fullness and the stretch of him being inside me. It felt so good, it was almost too much for me. He pumped in and out, making animalistic moans and groans.

A deep clench in my core triggered wave after wave of ecstasy, flooding me with goosebumps and heat. I orgasmed for the second time. My whole body trembled under him.

“I love you, Val.” I heard him say like he always does when he was close to coming. This time I didn’t say it back. I almost responded to his I love you just like I used to doing before but I bit my tongue.

“Pull it out…” I said when his thrusted faster and harder, slamming his body against mine. I knew he was close and I hadn’t been on the pills since I left him.  

He pulled out of me and I sobbed at the emptiness. I could feel him rocking, he let out a loud groan and I felt his warm essence on my back. It dribbled down my ass and my slit.

“Val…” He whispered. Still limp and exhausted, I forced myself up. I picked up my clothes, put it on and hurriedly left.

Chapter Forty One

Valerie’s POV

“Dad.” I quietly said as I stood in front of his desk. He looked up at me from the papers he was reading and took off his reading glasses.

“Sweetheart.” He smiled.

His smile quickly disappeared when I didn’t smile back at him. I just stood there with a frown on my face. He gestured for me to sit on the armchair in front of him and I sat on it.

“What’s wrong?” He worriedly asked.

“What is he doing here?”

“Who?” His brows furrowed.

I let out an annoyed huff and rolled my eyes. “You know who…”

“Axel?”

“Yes.” I said.

“Sabi niya gusto niya daw magtrabaho dito.” Kibit-balikat na sabi niya.

“Daaaad!” I whined.

“What? It’s free labor.” Painosenteng aniya.

I pouted at him. “Dad naman, why are you doing this to me! Alam mo naman ang tungkol sa amin.”

His face changed into a serious expression. He took a deep sigh as he looked at me. “Hindi mo naman siya kailangan pansinin, hindi niyo kailangan mag-usap. I just feel like you still need him, sweetheart.”

“I-I don’t.” I said in a harsh tone, my frown grew even bigger. Dad looked at me in the eyes and my eyes automatically dropped to my feet, afraid of what he might see in them.

“Valerie, sweetheart, you know it’s better to be hurt than hardened.” Seryosong sabi ni dad. “I will not allow anyone or any situation to harden you and make you bitter. I don’t want you to close your heart. I’m doing this for you, sweetheart. Alam kong hindi mo naiintindihan ang mga ginagawa ko ngayon pero gusto kong malaman mo na wala akong ginusto kung hindi ang mapabuti ka.”

Axel’s POV

I was already up by four in the morning. Mas nauna pa akong nagising kaysa sa pagsikat ng araw. My body was sore. Day two and I still wasn’t used to sleeping on a hard worn down bamboo bed. I forced myself up, sitting on the edge of the bed and stretching my aching limbs. I brushed my fingers through my sweat drenched hair and stood up. Well, at least it wasn’t as hot as it was last night. I put on my jeans and my tank top before going out.

Sabi ni Jaime kailangan gising na ako bago tumilaok ang manok. I had to work from dawn to dusk. He gave me a chance to prove my love for Valerie and I wasn’t going to let it go to waste. Patutunayan ko sa kanya kung gaano ko kamahal ang anak niya.

Oh, the things I do for you Valerie.

Kailangan kong mag-igib ng tubig pangpaligo mula sa poso. Just getting a bucket of water was already a lot of work. My stay here as Jaime’s worker made me realize I took a lot of things for granted. My bed, airconditioner, water… Valerie…

Yun ang mga akala kong hindi mawawala sa akin pero nagkamali ako. I was used to being handed everything. Ngayon lahat ng kailangan ko dapat kong pagtrabahuhan. In a way, the little things I did gave me a sense of accomplishment because I knew I worked hard for it. I would work myself to death if I had to, bumalik lang sa akin si Valerie.

Yesterday, we had sex… if that’s what she wanted to call it. It didn’t feel like the way it felt everytime we made love. She was so detached, so impersonal, and cold. I had never felt sexually used by a woman before, usually it was the other way around or if I’d ever been used before I didn’t care at all, they didn’t mean anything to me. But it was Valerie and it hurt like hell. I was inside her but it felt like we were still a world apart.

After filling up the bucket I carried it to the outdoor bathroom. It was just a small space with wood sticks standing on all four corners of it to hold the dried leaves that was covering it. I took a quick shower and wore the clothes that Jaime lend me. Wala naman akong dala nang magpunta ako dito kung hindi ang kotse ko lang at sarili ko.

Inaya ako ng ibang mga trabahador sa hacienda na kumain muna bago kami magsimulang magtrabaho. They were all nice to me. Nakakakuwentuhan ko sila at nakakabiruan. Hindi katulad sa kumpanya namin. Nagsisimula pa lang ako doon, iba na ang trato sa akin ng mga tao. They knew I was the boss’ son. Even the people with higher position than me treated me as if I was a god. Lahat ng gusto ko, gagawin nila. Isang sabi ko lang, nandyan na. Hindi nila ako tinrato na kapantay nila. It’s true what they say, it’s lonely at the top. It was cool to have people you could casually talk to and be treated as if you were one of them.

We started harvesting sugar canes after having breakfast. Tanghali na ng matapos kami. By the time, we were done, my tongue was hanging out of my mouth. Damn! This was more exhausting and better than an intensive work out at the gym.

I was taking a break, sitting under the shade of a tree, when I saw Valerie. Malayo siya mula sa kung nasaan ako pero hindi ako pwedeng magkamali na siya nga iyon. My hands clenched into fists when I saw who she was with. David. They were walking side by side, smiling and laughing.

I got up and started following them. It looked like they were heading towards the woods. I kept a safe distance behind them, hiding behind trees. It took all I had not to snatch Valerie away from David. Just seeing them together made me want to kill that bastard. Huminto sila sa talon at naupo sa ilalim ng puno. I hid behind a tree, just a few steps away from them.

After a few minutes, David started taking off his shirt and jumped on the water. Valerie let out a loud giggle. Hindi ko na napigilan ang sarili kong lumapit sa kanya at hatakin siya. I pulled her behind the tree with me while David was busy swimming. Maingat ko siyang isindal sa puno.

“Axel!” She gasped as she looked at me with eyes wide open.

“I’m sorry but it kills me seeing you with him.” I breathed out.

Her eyes narrowed into a slit when it finally sunk into her. “Ano pa bang ginagawa mo dito? Why don’t you go back to your wife. Sigurado akong miss na miss ka na niya.” She sarcastically said.

“She’s not my wife anymore.” Mahinahong sabi ko sa kanya. “Please, Val, give me another chance. Lahat ng gusto mo gagawin ko. Wala akong hindi ibibigay sa’yo. Please, just don’t leave me. Don’t love him, come back to me, I’m begging you.”

“At paano pag nakahanap ka na ng ipapalit sa akin? Someone better than me? Are you going to leave me just like the way you left her? Asawa mo na siya, kasal na kayo, nagawa mo siyang iwan. You cheated on her with me. Paano pa kaya ako? Kayang-kaya mo din akong iwan.” Her voice shook as she tried to hold her tears back.

I cupped her face in my hands. “Listen to me, Val, mahal kita. Ikaw lang. You’re the only woman I love, the only woman I will ever love. I belong to you and only to you from as long as I live. There won’t be anyone better than you and if there is, to hell with her, your everything I want and need. “

She tightly closed her eyes to keep the tears from falling. She opened them again and shook her head. “Ayoko na, Axel. I’ve been hurt enough. Nakakapagod na masaktan. I’m not up for anymore. Tigilan mo na itong ginagawa mo, hayaan mo na ako at bumalik ka na sa Manila.”

“No.” I firmly said, holding back my own tears. “Lahat na hilingin mo sa akin huwag lang ito. Hindi ko kayang ibigay sa’yo ang gusto mo. You taught me this, didn’t you? You taught me that when you love someone, you don’t give up on them. I’m not going to give up on you. Even if you give up on us, I will never give up on you. I love you, Valerie.”

Tears fell from her eyes, it triggered the tears to fall from mine too. She brought her hands over mine that was cupping her face. Inilayo niya ang mga kamay ko mula sa mukha niya at umiling. “I just- I can’t feel anything for you anymore.”

Those words cut into me deeply. They hurt but I felt like I deserved it. She took steps back away from me and suddenly stopped when she bumped into something. I looked behind her. It was David. Hinawakan niya sa magkabilang braso si Valerie habang matalim ang titig sa akin.

“David!” Valerie turned her head to him, shocked.

“Are you okay?” He asked, quickly glancing at her before turning his angry eyes towards me. “Ano’ng ginawa sa’yo ng lalaking ’yan?”

“Nothing.” She said, trying to compose herself.

“What are you doing here?” He asked in a low but hostile tone.

“It’s none of your business.” I said in equal hostility, throwing him a sharp glare. “Wala akong dapat ipaliwanag sa’yo.”

“Don’t ever go near her again, you bastard.” He hissed, posessively wrapping his arm around the small of her waist. I gritted my teeth in anger at what he did. My body leaned forwards towards him, ready to attack.

“I don’t think that’s possible.” I let out an arrogant smirk. “She’s mine. She belongs to me in every way imaginable. I’ve had her in ways you’ll never know.” My eyes went to Valerie. “Isn’t that right, Val?”

David took a step forward to attack me but Val was quick to stop him. I said that to let him know that Valerie was mine, she had always been mine and will never be his. And I was really riling him up so I could have an excuse to beat his ass for touching my woman. Gusto ko lang siya ang magsimula para hindi na lalong magalit sa akin si Valerie.

“I-I want to go home. I just want to go home, please.” Val begged as he looked at David. He took a deep breath to calm himself down. Valerie wrapped her arms around one of his. I watched them walk away. I felt helpless, I knew I couldn’t do anything but watch them. I felt like my chest was being squeezed by an unknown pressure. I felt as if my heart was going to burst seeing her leave with David.

Chapter Forty Two

Axel’s POV

I was getting used to my life at the hacienda. Unti-unti ng nasasanay ang katawan ko sa mabibigat na trabaho. I worked from sunrise to sunset regardless of any pain or exhaustion I felt. But looking on the bright side, all those work had earned me a nice tan and a more toned body.

Tatlong beses ko pa lang nakikita si Valerie sa buong linggong ito. I couldn’t go near her even if I wanted to. Instead, I just watched her from a distance. She’d just throw me a quick glance everytime she sees me looking at her and quickly look away. It was agonizing to not be able to hold her, to speak with her, to be close to her yet so far.

She loved me with everything she had and now she couldn’t even look at me. I knew all this was my fault. I knew I made a mistake. She gave me everything and all I did was break her heart. I had hurt the woman I love and it was I that had put myself in the position I was in. Pero handa akong tiisin ang kahit anong pagod o sakit para kay Valerie. Wala akong hindi gagawin para sa kanya. I knew there’s a chance she still feels something for me and while I may need to earn back her trust, there was still hope.

I stretched out my tired arms and cracked my hurting back from carrying sacks of fruits and vegetables that would be delivered to the factory. Hindi pa ako pwedeng magpahinga dahil pakakainin ko pa ang mga kabayo at paliliguan ko pa. I headed towards the horse stables and found Valerie there.

I quietly watched as she stood next to her favorite horse and mine too, Mitsy. Valerie and I had some fun memories while riding that horse. She petted her horse’s nose and it made a loud neighing sound.

“Valerie.” I slowly walked towards her.

She turned to me. She looked caught off guard at first but her expression quickly changed to a hard one. “Trabahador ka dito. You have no right to call me by name. Senyorita, that’s what you’re going to call me from now on katulad ng mga trabahador dito.”

I just nodded my head. This was kind of funny in a sad way. I remembered the time when she followed me to Manila and worked for our company. Sinabi ko sa kanya na tawagin niya akong Mr. Lavigne katulad ng mga empleyado ko. Now she was the boss and I was working for her. She was doing the same thing I did to her. It was ironic how our roles have reversed now.

Ganito pala kasakit iyon. I was hurting for her more than I was for myself. I put her through a lot of pain and I wish I could undo everything I did that had hurt her.

“May kailangan ka ba, senyorita?” I asked after too much of this silence had passed.

“All I need right now is for you to stay away from me.” She said in a cold tone. 

I gave her another nod and turned around to head out the stable. I only took a few steps when I heard her call my name. I faced her.

“When are you going to get tired of this?” She asked.

“Never.” I answered with a bittersweet smile. “Hindi ako mapapagod na ipakita sa’yo kung gaano kita kamahal. I know how badly I fucked up, I know how much I had hurt  you but I swear I’ll prove to you how much I love you and how sorry I am. I’ll make it up to you.”

Her face softened a bit. I could see the internal battle in her mind reflecting through her eyes. And then she dropped her eyes to the ground, avoiding my gaze. She wasn’t ready to fogive yet but I knew she would be.

 

Valerie’s POV

I shook the reins for Mitsy to go faster. I didn’t know exactly where I was going. I guess I just needed to get some fresh air and get everything he said off my mind. My heart wanted to believe but my mind couldn’t. The love drunk side of me screamed for me to run and wrap my arms around him. But I was scared of being hurt again that I hurt him. Love does have limits and I think I’ve reached mine. You could only love someone and go through too much with that person. Sometimes it’s just too way much that no matter how much you love someone it wouldn’t be enough.

I tapped my foot against Mitsy and she stopped. Bumaba ako mula sa likuran niya. This wasn’t working. I still couldn’t get him off my mind. Hindi ako sanay na nagpapakumbaba si Axel. He had always been proud and cocky now here he was, reduced to such sorry state.

“Mitsy…” I sighed as I stroke my horse’s nose. When I had no one to talk to, I usually just talk to Mitsy. “Bakit gano’n? Bakit kung kailan nasasanay na akong wala siya saka naman siya pupunta dito at guguluhin ang isip ko? I can’t let all my progress go to waste.”

She nudged her nose to me as if comforting me. I patted her. I could tell her everything. Minsan mas masarap nga kausap ang mga hayop. When you tell them your secrets they wouldn’t judge you or tell anyone else. They couldn’t give advice but that wasn’t what I wanted right now. Sometimes I just wanted to be heard, even if I’m not sure if she could understand me.

“I want to hate him but the sad truth is I’m still very much in love with him.” I pouted. “Galit ako sa kanya dahil nasaktan ako, pinagmukha niya akong tanga pero alam kong mahal ko pa rin siya. He can’t just show up here and expect everything to be magically okay again. The wound are still fresh. Masakit pa din.”

Mitsy made a sound, it was as if she really understood me and was trying to make me feel better.

After spilling everything out to Mitsy, sumakay ulit ako sa kanya. Nag-ikot ako sandali at magdidilim na ng ibalik ko si Mitsy sa kwadra. Nandoon pa din si Axel ng dumating ako. He was leaning against the wall as if he was waiting for me.

Nang nasa aktong baba na ako, lumapit siya sa akin. He put his hands on either side of my torso, just below my breasts.

“Kaya ko na.” I said, irritated as I tried to pry his hands away from me but he pulled me down. Next thing I knew I was snuggled against his hard, musculine chest. His natural scent mixed with his sweat drove me wild in the inside. He wasn’t wearing and cologne. It was musky, earthy, and manly. The heat of his body against me and his sweat reminded me of the last time we made- had sex right here in this very room we were in.

I swallowed and quickly took a step back. “Wala kang karapatan na hawakan ako.” I hissed, glaring at him and I headed out of there. I was afraid I’d lose control just like the last time. It was too dangerous to be that close to him. My body was a traitor. One touch from Axel and it would betray me.

Axel’s POV

It was a struggle to get out of bed. My head was light and my body felt heavy but I had to force myself up. Marami pang trabaho sa hacienda ngayong araw. We were rushing to harvest acres of crops before the storm rolls in. Kailangan kong maipakita kay Jaime na nagtatrabaho ako ng mabuti. I hardly get any rest. Tumutulong ako sa pag-ani ng mga tanim, pagbubuhat ng mga sako ng mga naaning prutas at gulay, at mga kahoy. Sometimes I would only eat twice a day because I was too tired to have dinner. I’d just collapse on the bed and doze off.

Nagpunta ako sa taniman pagkatapos kong maligo at kumain. I was feeling under the weather today but I ignored it. Once I start working, I’d forget about it and it would go away. I started working but the burning hot heat of the sun was making me feel worse. I was sweating like hell but at the same time I was having the chills. Hindi ko na ininda iyon, hangga’t kaya ng katawan ko, magtatrabaho ako. I wouldn’t want Jaime to think that I was slacking off.

After a while, my vision got a little blurry. I wiped the sweat that was dripping down from my forehead to my eyes. I blinked a couple of times to clear my vision. My surroundings faded in and I could feel my body shutting down.

 

Valerie’s POV

Namasyal ako sa hacienda, naglakad-lakad hanggang sa mapunta ako sa taniman kung saan ko palaging nakikitang nagtatrabaho si Axel. Sometimes, I watch him from the distance. Akala ko hindi niya kakayanin magtrabaho sa hacienda. I thought he wouldn’t be able to do his work properly. He was used to working in an airconditioned building, sitting on a comfy chair in front of his computer. Hindi niya kayang magtrabahong nakabilad sa araw habang gumagawa ng mabibigat na trabaho. Pero sa napapanood ko, siya ang pinakamasipag sa kanila. Halos hindi na siya nagpapahinga. Some would take a few minutes of break under the shade of a tree but Axel rarely does that. He would work like a machine. I couldn’t believe it at first. Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne, the executive officer of one of the biggest companies here in the Philippines, was now working at our hacienda.

I walked around the hacienda, I even went to the horse stables but I couldn’t find him there. I was starting to get worried. And then a question came into my mind. Bumalik na kaya siya sa Manila? I felt a pang in my chest at the thought.

I approached one of the workers. “Nakita mo ba si Axel?” I asked him.

“Si Axel po, senyorita, may sakit. Nawalan ng malay kanina habang nagtatrabaho.” Sagot niya.

“Kasi naman, ayaw magpaawat ng batang iyon. Walang pahinga-pahinga.” Sabi pa ng isa. “Malakas nga siya at malaki ang katawan niya pero inaabuso niya ang katawan niya.”

“Nasaan siya?” I asked urgently.

“Dinala po siya doon sa tinutuluyan niya sa tabi ng kwadra. Gusto nga po namin na dalhin siya sa center pero siya po ang umayaw. Gusto niya lang daw magpahinga.” Kibit-balikat na sabi ng lalaki.

Nagmamadali kong pinuntahan siya. I walked to the old tool shed where he wa sstaying and opened the door to find three young women in there. Axel was lying on the bed topless, one woman sat on the edge of it wiping him with a small towel while the two were watching. My eyes narrowed in a sharp slit. I faked a cough.

“Senyorita.” Sabi ng isa sa mga babae ng mapalingon silang lahat sa akin. “Magandang hapon po.”

“Pwede na kayong umalis. Ako na ang bahala sa kanya.” I coldly said, scowling at them.

The woman who was sitting on the edge of his bed stood up and they all walked out of the small room. Ako naman ang pumalit sa babaeng nakaupo sa gilid na kama niya. I felt his forehead with the back of my hand and he was hot.

“Inaapoy ka na ng lagnat, puro babae pa rin nakapaligid sa’yo.” I mindlessly said in an annoyed tone.

“Selos ka?” He grinned with eyes still closed. His voice was weak but playful. I was quite surprised dahil akala ko tulog siya.

“Kapal mo.” I retorted.

A low chuckle rose from his throat.

“Uminom ka na ba ng gamot?” I asked, changing the subject.

“Yeah…” He answered, weakly.

“How are you feeling?”

“Much better now that you’re here.” He murmured. He took my hand and just held it tightly to his chest. “ Stay. Don’t ever leave again“ He whispered.

Chapter Forty Three

Axel’s POV

She was lying on her side next to me with her head leaned on my shoulder as I held her hand over my chest. Despite feeling sick, I had never woke up feeling this good for a long time. Closing my eyes again, I inhaled and savored her scent and the way she felt in my arms. There was really nothing better than waking up with her next to me, feeling her warmth, breathing in her scent… that divine scent that I miss more than anything. I felt warm inside and I knew that there will never be something or someone that could make me feel the way she does.

I shifted to my side so that I could wrap my arms around her. She was like a medicine to me, no matter what I was feeling or thinking having her with me always soothes and makes me feel better.

“What are you doing?” I heard her say. I looked down at Valerie, her eyes shone in the dark as they looked at me. The soft light from the moon shining from the window illuminated her face, making her unbelievable beautiful it took my breath away.

“I’m just trying to get comfy.” Dahilan ko.

“Mmhmm.” One of her brows curved up, She sat up on the edge of the bed, looking around. “Gabi na?”

“Looks like it.” I said.

She stretched out her arms. “God, your bed is so hard. How do you put up with this?”

“I put up with all these because of you Val. You make me do things I never thought I’d do for anyone.”

Silence fell between us before she shrugged her shoulders. “Masama pa rin ba ang pakiramdam mo?”

“Yeah.” I said, faking a wince. “Everything hurts. There’s not a place on my body that’s not throbbing with pain right now.”

The expression on her face suddenly shifted into a concerned one. She felt my forehead and my neck with the back of her hand. “Kailangan mo na palang uminom ng gamot pero kumain ka muna. Dinalhan ka kanina ni aling Emma ng pagkain.”

She got up and lit the oil lamp with a match over the small table beside my bed. Kinuha niya ang pagkain na nakabalot sa dahon.

 

Valerie’s POV

I watched in amusement as he unwrapped the leaves. May kanin sa loob, tilapia, kamatis at itlog na pula. He used his hand hand to eat and couldn’t help but smile as I watched him. Axel just never fails to surprise me. I never thought na matututo siyang mag-adjust bilang trabahador sa hacienda. I never thought I’d see him eat with his bare hand. He was born of privilege and given the best that money could offer and now he was living such a humble lifestyle. In the office, everybody seemed scared of him. Who wouldn’t? In his suit, he was powerful, broodingly good looking, frightenly intimidating. Pero dito, malapit ang loob ng mga trabahodor sa hacienda. Everyone like and care for him. Siguro dahil marunong siyang makisama sa mga tao dito.

His face lifted to mine. I quickly hid my smile and gave him a straight face. “Wala ka pang gana sa lagay na yan, ha?” I rolled my eyes. Ayaw pa niyang kumain kanina pero pinilit ko lang siya.

“This is good and I’m starving. Isang buong araw akong walang kain.” He shrugged and held it out to me. “Tikman mo.”

“No, thanks.” I said.

“Tikman mo lang.” He insisted. “I know you’re hungry. Buong araw kang hindi umalis sa tabi ko.”

“No, I’m fine.” Sagot ko.

Kinamay niya ang kanin at kumuha siya ng konting isda at inilapit niya ito sa akin na parang batang pinipilit kumain. I looked down at it with brows furrowed. “Ayoko.” I firmly said even though my mouth watered at the smell of it. Hindi pa din pala ako kumakain.

“I know you want it.” He grinned sheepishly. “Kapag hindi ka tumikim hindi ko na uubusin ’to.”

I opened my mouth hesitantly and ate from his hand. Axel smiled and I scowled at him. He let out a quiet laugh. Hindi ko alam kung dahil lang ba sa gutom o talagang masarap ang pagkain. He shared his food to me and we both ate together.

Nilinis ko ang pinagkainan namin at inabot sa kanya ang gamot. He popped it into his mouth and quickly drank the whole bottle of water I handed him.

Pinahiga ko na siya. I got a bowl of cold water and damped the small cloth in it. Pinamunas ko iyon sa katawan ni Axel to help his fever go down. He was still hot but not as hot as he was earlier. I didn’t how many times I’ve swallowed when my hand reached down to  his sun-kissed chest and down to his well-toned stomach.

“Your pants.” Ngumuso ako sa pantalon niya.

“What?” He looked at me confused.

“Take it off.” I said.

“I’m sick. I don’t know if we could…” He looked really sorry.

My cheeks heat up. “That’s not what I meant, idiot. Hubarin mo yung pants mo para mapunasan kita.”

“Oh okay.” He said chuckling. He unbuttoned his pants and lifted his hip so he could pull it down. I awkwarldly looked away not knowing what else to do. “It’s off.”

I proceeded on wiping his thighs with the towel with my head turned away, careful not to look at it.

“Why are you blushing?” He noticed and it made me blush even more.

“I am not!” I denied. I thought the dim light from the oil lamp would hide it but it didn’t.

“Yes, you are.” I could hear the grin from his voice. “I can’t believe this. That’s been inside you a thousand times.”

“Shut up!” I snarled. Oh I was sure he was definitely feeling better now.

Napadali ang pagpupunas ko sa kanya. I quickly covered him with a thin blanket. I dampened the towel again in cold water and placed it on his forehead.

“I’m going home.” Paalam ko sa kanya ng matapos ako.

His face suddenly dimmed a bit but he still forced a smile. “Thanks for taking care of me, senyorita.”  

I just stared at him for awhile, not knowing I was already biting my bottom lip. There was a sudden heavy feeling in my chest knowing that I won’t be spending the night with him. Instead, I would lie in bed all night and fall asleep to the thought of him instead of being with him. “Kaya mo na naman mag-isa, hindi ba?” I asked.

Just say no and I’ll stay with you.

“Yeah, I know you’re already tired. Go home, take a rest.” He said.

I nodded my head and walked out of there with a heavy chest. I miss sleeping with him and I don’t mean the sex. I just miss falling a sleep cuddled up next to him. I miss talking about stupid, random, silly things with him while we lay in bed. I miss how I could here his heartbeat when I rest my head on his chest. I miss us.

Axel’s POV

I’d been pretending to be sick for three days. Maaga pa lang pumupunta na si Valerie dito para dalhan ako ng pagkain. She’d stay and take care of me all day and leave at night. It had been a routine for us. Hindi ako sigurado kung bumubuti na ba ang relasyon namin ngayon. She still seemed to be holding back. Once in a while, she’d soften a bit lalo na kapag umaarte ako. But once she realize it, she would go back to being the cold Valerie. Even though I was starting to feel better two days, I acted sick so she would turn into the concerned nurse.

I didn’t want to lose her but my sick act had to end at some point. It was only a matter of time before she figures it out. She wasn’t stupid. Five o’clock in the morning and I was already out of bed, taking a shower. I still had a lot of making up to do and I had to prove myself to her father. Most of all, I’ll prove myself to the woman I love.

I was feeding the horses when Valerie came. She walked into the horse stables with a food container in her hands. She stood there, looking like she had better days. I walked up to her.

“Magaling ka na?” I sensed a hint of disappointment in her voice.

“Fortunately, yes.” I answered.

“Buti naman.” Sabi niya. “I won’t have to take care of you anymore.”

My lips lifted in a playful smile. “You can still take care of me if you want.”

She answered with a shrug and a frown. “I have to go. I’ll just leave your food on the table.” She turned around and after just a few steps, I grabbed her by the arm and stopped her.

“Val, sa tatlong araw na magkasama tayo, alam kong hindi pa rin nawawala ang nararamdaman mo para sa akin. You were lying when  you said you don’t feel anything for me anymore. Sabihin mo lang kung anong kailangan kong gawin para mapatawad mo ako. Wala akong hindi gagawin para sa’yo. Kahit ano, Val, kahit lumakad ako ng paluhod mula sa gate ng hacienda niyo hanggang dito gagawin ko.”

She snatched her arm away from me. “Hindi ko pa kayang patawarin ka. I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to. Ibinigay ko ang lahat sa’yo. God knew I gave everything I could to you and I left nothing for myself. You broke my trust and broke me in the process.” Her voice quivered as she spoke. She didn’t wait for me to say something and simply walked away, leaving me with a crushing feeling in my chest.

I inhaled to keep the tears from falling. How I wish this was just a bad dream and the feeling that I was never going to be happy again wasn’t real.

All I could think about all day was Valerie and what she said. Paano na kung hindi niya na ako mapatawad? I didn’t know how I could live without her in my life. She was the only thing in my life that I was sure of and only thing  that made sense.

Night came and I walked back to my place after a long and tiring day of working at the farm. Habang naglalakad ako pabalik, nakasabay ko si Heidi, isa sa mga babaeng tumulong sa akin nang magkasakit ako.

“Magaling ka na pala.” She said as we walked together.

I smiled back at her. “Yeah, thanks for your help.”

“Walang anuman.” She said, nervously licking her lips. “Kamusta naman ang pakiramdam mo?”

“Good as new.” I replied. “Pakisabi na lang kay aling Emma salamat sa pagkain na pinadala niya.”

“Sige. Makakarating.” She said.

Nagpaalam na kami sa isa’t isa ng makarating sa tinutuluyan ko. Medyo malayo pa iyon sa barrio kung saan nakatira ang mga trabahador sa hacienda. I froze when I saw Valerie standing in front of the door of the toolshed with a deep frown on her face and arms coldly crossed over to her chest.

We stood just looking at each other, words failing both of us. I was surprised when she turned her back to me and went in. Sinundan ko siya sa loob. I walked in and closed the door behind me.

“You’ve been making a lot of good friends here, haven’t you?” She said in a sharp tone as she lit the oil lamp.

  “Val…”

“Do not call me by my name.” Asik niya bago lumingon ulit sa akin. Her eyes squinted into an angry slit. “What did I tell you to call me?” She demanded in a curt voice.

“Senyorita.” I said.

She took steps towards me until we were just a few inches away from each other. “Good boy.” A nd then she pushed me down to the hard bed behind me. She climbed upon me and our eyes leveled. I was uneasy, her eyes, narrowed and angry and with a glint of lust. My arms wrapped around her waist and I was about to kiss her when she turned away.

“No lips.” She said in a low but angry tone. “Remember, this is just sex. Nothing more.”

The words stung like a lash of whip. I paused as I tried to shrug away the hurt. She was here and she still wanted me, iyon lang ang importante ngayon. I watched with amused eyes as she stripped down. I took my clothes off too.

I knew the bedroom was the one and only place I haven’t disappointed her and I hope it stays that way. She was still on top of me as I started kissing her neck. I sucked on her sensitive spot as one of my hands palmed her breast. I stroked her nipple and played with it between my two fingers. She moaned and whimpered as my lips trailed down to her collar bones and her beautifully full breast. Her arms wrapped around my head, hugging me as I sucked on her like a hungry baby.

My other hand moved to her side, stroking it before going down her legs and between her thighs. She automatically opened up for me, giving me access to her pussy. Her hips writhed and bucked against my fingers at the touch of her flesh. She was already wet and ready. My fingers stroked her a little before pushing two fingers inside her. She moved her hips up and down, fucking my fingers. I moved mine to, meeting her thrust in full force. She cried out my name over and over as I suck on her breast and finger fuck her. My fingers twisted and curled inside her, hitting her g-spot with each stroke. She whimpered and cried my name one last time before collapsing on against me as I felt warm liquid flow down my hand.

My mouth seperated from her breast and I took my fingers out of her. I looked up at her, staring into her eyes as I brought my fingers to my lips and tasted her juice. Damn hell, she tasted heavenly, sweet, delicate and delicious. Her eyes darkened even more with passion. We shifted and now she was lying on the bed with legs wide open.

She didn’t have to say anything. I already knew what she wanted. My head went down between her legs and I started licking her pussy dry of all her juices. I swallowed every single precious drop and then I got to my knees and positioned myself.

“No.” She suddenly said when I was about to enter her. She got on top of me and pushed me back down the bed. She pinned my hand down the bed and looked at me in the eyes while she straddled my torso.   “You’re my boytoy. Not the other way around. I decide when to fuck and how we should fuck. You don’t get to decide on anything. You don’t even get to come unless I told you so. Gagawin mo lang kung ano ang sinabi kong gawin mo. Naiintindihan mo ba?”

I swallowed at the dominance she was showing over me. She was taking full control. I nodded my head when I couldn’t find the voice to say yes. It was as if I was looking at a whole different Valerie. I had never had a woman order me around in bed and this was fucking hot.

She took my hard shaft and stroked it. I groaned when she played with the tip with her fingers, agonizingly teasing me. She positioned herself on top of me and slowly lowered herself. I felt her warm inside nuzzling around my hard dick and it was like coming home. It had always felt like that with Valerie. She pounded up and down to me. She was fucking me hard and urgently. It felt so good to watch her move on top of me, seeing my own dick ram in and out of her.

I watched her, focused on her. At this point, it was about her pleasure, not mine. I wanted her to use me, to use my body, to do whatever she wanted to feel good. Despite how good it felt to be inside her, I surpressed the tugging desire to abandon myself to the pleasure. I was going to give her what she wanted.

Chapter Forty Four

Axel’s POV

She moaned and writhed under me, aching for more. I didn’t want to disappoint her. I thrusted faster making her moan even louder. She screamed, demanding me to go harder. My hands dug into her waist, lifting it higher up as I pounded in and out of her, powerfully. She wrapped her legs around me, pulling me deeper into her, crying out at the overwhelming pleasure I was giving her. I was close to climax when I felt her insides beginning to pulse around me.

“I’m going to come.” I warned her.

“Come inside me. Give it to me.” She said in a hoarse voice.

I cupped her ass with my hands and pumped roughly inside her. Soon she was shuddering and convulsing. Her eyes were close, her hand clutched on the pillow as she drowned in the exquisite pleasure shooting through her. I spilled myself inside of her and collapsed on top of her. I layed my damp head on her chest with our bodies. I could still feel her warmth. I could feel her heartbeat, the both of us heaving like we just ran a marathon. Our sweat mixing together.

This was the closest to intimacy I had ever gotten from her in a while. I was quite surprised that she let me take her missionary style. Ilang gabi na kaming nagkikita sa ganitong paraan. She was careful to avoid any physical or emotion intimacy between us. It was never making love, it was just sex. I felt the last of my energy drained out of me. I never denied her sex no matter how tired my body was from working. I was hers and she could do with me whatever she wanted.

Mahinang itinulak niya ako paalis sa ibabaw niya. I rolled off her and onto my back. She sat up on the edge of the bed and started putting on her clothes. Usually, I don’t do anything but watch her get dressed and leave but now I felt like we really needed to talk.

“Val…” I quietly said.

She paused as she put on her bra. She didn’t turn her head to me but I knew she was waiting for me to say something.

“Is this how it’s always going to be?” I sadly sighed.

“What do you mean?” She coldly asked.

“Hanggang dito na lang ba tayo? I don’t want to have sex with you anymore, I want to make love to you. You tell me you don’t feel anything for me and you come to me and have sex with me every night. I know you still love me, Val, otherwise you wouldn’t be here.”

“I’m here because I needed a good fuck, not because I love you.” She shrugged. Her words sliced through me but what did I expect? I was just a ‘boytoy’ to her.

This was my punishment for not telling the truth to her and I was ready to deal with it. I deserved it. I took a lot from her. And everything I took, I wanted to give it all back to her.

Valerie’s POV

I sunk my aching and spent body into the warm water in the tub. I felt sore all over from the rough sex Axel and I had, but in a good kind of way. I took the sponge sitting on the left side of my tub and started scrubbing my skin. I scrubbed off his kisses, his touch, his scent, his sweat off of me but I knew I couldn’t scrub the memories and the kiss marks he left all over my body. The purple marks on my breasts, my  stomach and my inner thigh was there so I wouldn’t be able to forget him even if he wasn’t around. He purposely left those marks as a reminder that I was his.

My body was addicted to him in every possible way. To his warmth. His tongue. His voice.

I’d been back on pill again since the first time we had sex. I knew it was inevitable. It was going to happen again and in our situation, a baby is the last thing I would want right now. And happened it did, over and over.

I closed my eyes and cursed to myself. Why was I doing this? Didn’t I have a tiny bit of self-respect left?

He made a fool of me and lied to me. I guess in a way, gusto kong gumanti sa kanya. But this was torturing me too. Hindi ko pa siya kayang tanggapin pero hindi ko rin naman siya kayang pakawalan. I was scared to give him my all again. I felt like I was in a limbo.

I got out of the tub after an hour and went to bed.

My day started as any other normal day. I had breakfast with my dad and spent some time with him until an unexpected visitor came. Guiliana Di Fiordo, Axel’s ex-wife. I felt like my whole world had collapsed the moment I saw her standing in front of our house. I knew what she was here for. Nandito siya para kay Axel. What if he suddenly decided that he finally had enough? Paano kung sumama na siya sa dating asawa niya. Fear took over me and I did my best to mask it.

She glanced at me with what looked like a taunting smirk. My lips pursed and my brow arched up at her.

“Good afternoon.” Dad warmly greeted him.

Her eyes averted from me to my dad. She smiled widely. “Hi, good afternoon. May nakapagsabi sa akin na nandito daw si Axel. Pwede ko bang makausap siya?”

“Sure. Ipapatawag ko na siya ngayon din.” Sabi ni dad. “Halika, tumuloy ka muna.” He invited the bitch inside our home. We sat at the living room with her. I sat next to dad on the couch across from where she was sitting.

“I’m sorry. I haven’t gotten your name yet? What is it?” Dad asked..

“Guiliana. My name’s Guiliana.” She answered. “I’m Axel’s wife.”

“Ex-wife.” Mariin na sabi ko.

She threw me a look of disdain and sat up right. The tension was evident between us. I was sure dad could feel. He, himself, looked uncomfortable.

“Yes, I’ve heard about you.” Dad finaally said, after a couple of seconds of awkward silence. “Do you want something to drink? Water, coffee, tea, juice?”

“Poison.” I quietly said. I knew I was acting childish but something inside was peeved.

“Valerie.” Saway ni dad sa akin.

“No, thank you.” She collectedly answered with a smile.

“What are you doing here? Bakit kailangan mo pang makita si Axel, hindi ba divorced na kayo?” Mataray na tanong ko.

“Our marrriage my have ended, pero hindi ibig sabihin nun tapos na sa amin ang lahat.” Sabi niya.

“Tapos na sa inyo ang lahat nang ma-divorce kayo. Don’t you get, you desperate bitch?” I couldn’t control my anger any longer.

“Valerie!” Dad said in a firm voice.

“Desperate?” She chuckled. “Hindi ako ang pumatol sa may asawa. Hindi ako ang naging kabit. Sino sa atin ngayon ang desperate?”

I couldn’t think of anymore to say. Parang umurong ang dila sa sinabi niya. It was like a slap to me. Everytime na maaalala ko na naging kabit ako ng lalaking mahal ko. He was married while I was in a relationship with him and he didn’t have the decency to tell me the truth. Nagmukha akong katanga.

Agad naman dumating si Axel. I felt dad breathed out in relief when he came. Our eyes met and I threw him a spiteful glare. His attention turned to Guiliana when she called him. She stood up from her seat and walked towards Axel.

“Guiles, anong ginagawa mo dito?” He asked, surprised.

“I’m so glad to see you again.” She wrapped her arms around him and that was it. I had seen enough. Mabilis akong umalis sa kinauupuan ko at lumabas sa bahay. What if he decided he wants to get back with her? Paano kung nagsawa na siya sa pagpapahirap ko sa kanya at makipagbalikan na lang siya kay Guiliana? Tears spilled from my eyes as I ran out of the house and then I bumped into something solid and soft. I looked up and saw David. 

“Hey, what’s wrong?” He asked in a worried tone.

I shook my head, wiping away my tears. He held my face with his hands and wiped away my tears with his thumb. “Wanna talk about it?”

 

Axel’s POV

I quickly pushed Guiliana away from me and I saw Valerie walk out. I clenched my jaw in annoyance. Fuck! Wouldn’t she ever let me be happy? Kung kailan pakiramdam ko unti-unti na akong napapatawad ni Valerie tsaka naman siya dadating?

“What are you doing here?” My brows furrowed as I looked at her.

“Iiwan ko muna kayo.” Jaime quietly got up from his seat and left us.

“We need to talk. I- I just got the divorce decree.” She looked at me with sad eyes. “Pwede pa natin itong maayos, Axel.”

“No, Guiles, we can’t fix this anymore. You have to understand that we can’t be fixed anymore. Matagal ng tapos ang lahat sa atin. Marami ng nagbago sa loob ng tatlong taon.”

“Axel…” She said in a broken voice. “I didn’t mean to hurt. I didn’t mean to cheat on you. It just happened. You weren’t always around and I wanted to feel loved.”

“It doesn’t matter anymore. I forgive you. We both need to forgive each other.” I said. “Alam kong may mga naging pagiging pagkukulang ako sa’yo and I’m so sorry for that. I’m sorry for not being able to love you like you deserve. I’m sorry for neglecting you. I was a stupid, immature, selfish jerk. I married you for the wrong reason. I’m so sorry, Guiles. You deserve to be loved pero hindi ko kayang ibigay sa’yo iyon.”

“Dahil si Valerie ang mahal mo?” She said.

“Yes, I love her more than anything in this world. More than my own life.” I answered.

“What a lucky bitch.” She smiled despite the pain in her eyes.

“She is, isn’t she?” I smiled back.

“You are still a cocky asshole, Axel.” She said, shaking her head. Somehow, everything felt a little lighter. I knew she had finally accepted it. “I’m just… I’m scared. Hindi ko alam kung ano na ang mangyayari sa akin ngayong hiwalay na tayo. I don’t want to be alone.”

“You won’t be. You’re free now. One day, you’ll find a man who will love you the way you deserve. He’ll give you everything I couldn’t. You have nothing to be scared about.” I told her.

That was all we needed. Closure. We ended everything the right way. It was something, for the longest time, we never had the courage to do. We forgave each other. She had already accepted the fact that we couldn’t be together anymore. Maybe in her heart, she knew that we were never really were meant to be. That it was just a mistake. She just wanted closure. Si Valerie lang ang babaeng minahal ko at mamahalin kong higit pa sa buhay ko.

Valerie’s POV       

Sumama ako kay David. He took me to their villa. I was quiet, I didn’t say anything the whole moment we were together but he was there for me. After the night we kissed, I explained to him that it was all a mistake. Nabigla lang ako at walang ibig sabihin ang halik na iyon. He was just a friend to me and I couldn’t see him as more than that. Yung naramdaman ko sa kanya noon, it wasn’t love, it was just an admiration. I idealized him without realizing that I really didn’t feel anything for him at all. Iba ang love kapag naramdaman mo na. It wasn’t all rainbows, glitters, and butterflies. Love makes you do crazy, insane things you would never imagine yourself doing. I only felt it with Axel.

We’d been friends since I can remember and we decided to just keep it that way.

We watched a few movies in their home theater and we had dinner at their place. I didn’t want to go home because I was scared that Axel wouldn’t be there anymore. Natatakot ako na baka pagbalik ko wala na siya…

Nagsimulang umulan ng malakas pagkatapos namin mag-dinner at ihahatid na ako ni David pauwi. I waited and hoped for the rain to stop but so far there was no sign that it will happen anytime soon.

“May bagyo ngayon at madilim na.” David’s mom said as I was looking outside through the window. “Delikado kung uuwi ka pa. Why don’t you stay here for the night? Doon ka na lang matulog sa guest room.”

I sighed, forcing a smile and nodding my head. It was already ten in the evening and the rain still hadn’t stop. I was already exhausted, mentally and emotionally drained. Gusto ko na din magpahinga. Tumawag ako kay dad para sabihin na hindi na ako makakauwi.

Chapter Forty Five

Axel’s POV

It started to rain really hard as I waited for Valerie on the front porch of their house. May nakapagsabi sa akin na nakita nilang sumama si Valerie kay David. It was dark and it was raining and I was getting more worried. She was with that man in God knows where doing God knows what. Fuck! I could feel the fury spreading all over my body at the thought of her being with another man. I can’t just sit here and do nothing.

“Axel.” Jaime’s voice pulled me from my thought. He appeared from the front door and walked towards where I was standing.

“Jaime.” I said, acknowledging his presence.

“What are you still doing here?” He asked. “It’s raining cats and dogs out here and it’s already past ten.”

It was? I hadn’t noticed the hours passing by.

“Hindi pa ba umuuwi si Valerie?” I asked, worried. “We need to talk.”

He shook his head. “She just called me. Nasa bahay siya nila David at bukas na daw siya makakauwi. Delikadong bumiyahe pa sila ng ganitong madilim at malakas ang ulan. You better go to your place and get some rest.”

My jaw clenched along with my hands. I wouldn’t be able to sleep knowing that Valerie was sleeping at another man’s house. Fuck no! Susunduin ko siya kahit saang impyerno pa ang bahay niyang David na ’yan.

“Where does he live?” I blankly asked.

Jaime sighed, shaking his head. “Mabuti pa magpahinga ka na. Makakapaghintay naman ang kung anuman ang kailangan niyong pag-usapan.”

I shook my head. This couldn’t wait tomorrow. I needed to get Valerie and take her home. I wouldn’t let her spend the night with that motherfucker, hell be damned if I do. I had to ask a few workers where David lives and as soon as I found out I ran, not minding the rain, to the horse stables to get a horse. I had been working at the hacienda long enough to learn some basic horse riding skills. I still wasn’t too confident about it but what the hell! Si Mitsy naman ang sasakyan. She was tamer than most horses here.

“Baby, we’ll get your mommy, okay? Can I count on you?” I asked as I stroked her white nose. She made a soft neighing sound, I guessed it was a yes. I had been around horses so much that I started to sometimes talk to them. I treat Mitsy like how Valerie treats her, she was our baby.

Sumampa ako sa likod niya. I tugged the bridle to make her run. The rain was heavy and it was almost pitch black that I could barely see where I was going. To top if off, wasn’t smooth either. It was rocky, slippery because of the rain, and it had ridges in places. I was relieved when Mitsy got me to David’s house safely. You wouldn’t miss it. It was the biggest and grandest house there. In front of me stood an elegant french style villa. I got off Mitsy and walked to the front door. I was as wet as the streets. My shirt clothes clung to me, dripping heavy with rain and sweat. I pressed the doorbell and after a few rings a uniformed maid opened it.

“Magandang gabi po, ano pong kailangan nila?” The woman asked.

“Si Valerie?” I demanded.

“Si ma’am Valerie po? Nasa taas na po siya at nagpapahinga.” She answered.

“I need to talk to her.” I said, pushing my way in.

“Sir, bawal po kayong pumasok. Baka mapagalitan ako nina ma’am at sir.” The woman tried to push me out but I didn’t budge.

“Valerie!” I looked up at the second floor and shouted for her. Soon there were two men coming right at me and they held both my arms each. I violently flailed my arms in hopes of escaping from their grips as I shouted Valerie’s name over and over.

My face lit up when I saw her running down the stairs. She looked surprised when she saw me. Huminto siya sa harap ko at sandaling tinitigan lang ako.

“Val, let’s go home.” I said in a begging tone.

“What is happening here?” David asked, coming down the stairs. He walked towards us and stood next to Valerie as he sneered, looking at me as if I was a piece of garbage. If these guys weren’t holding me down I would have probably wring his neck by now. “Ano’ng ginagawa ng lalaking yan dito?”

“I’m here to take Valerie home.” I said through gritted teeth.

“Malakas ang ulan at madilim na. It would be too dangerous to go back to the hacienda.” David wrapped an arm around Valerie’s shoulders. “She’s staying.”

“Val…” I looked at her with pleading eyes. She just stood there, looking at me with an expression I couldn’t read.

“And you, you’re not welcome here.” David said with a snide. “Bumalik ka sa hacienda mag-isa mo. Kung gusto mong ipahamak ang sarili mo, you’re free to do so. Huwag mo na idamay si Valerie.”

He gestured for his bodyguards to take me out. Hindi na ako nanlaban ng kaladkarin nila ako. My chest felt like it was going to fucking burst. My heart literally broke. It hurt to see her with another man, the fucker wrapping his arm on her like he owns her. I felt like she chos David over me. Wala naman akong magagawa kung ayaw niyang sumama sa akin. Wala naman akong magagawa kung si David ang piliin niya.

The two men pushed me out of the house and I heard the door shut behind me. My shoulders drooped, it felt heavy as I walked back to where I tied Mitsy. Fuck! I wanted to cry but I held it back.

“Axel!” My head turned when I heard Valerie’s voice. Tumakbo siya sa ulan palapit sa akin at huminto sa harap ko. My heart started thumping fast again. “Sasama ako sa’yo.” She said. I blinked a couple of times before I was finally able to take in what she just said. Sumampa siya sa kabayo at sumunod ako sa kanya. I sat at the back of her and she squeezed her legs to make Mitsy walk.

It was a slow and quiet ride back to the hacienda and neither of us spoke. We were just huddling together, sharing each other’s body heat as rain poured on us. It was funny how as soon as we got to Valerie’s house the heavy rain suddenly stopped. Bumaba kami kay Mitsy at itinali ko siya sa puno sa harap ng bahay nila.

“Val, do you still want me?” I asked as I followed her to the front door of their house. She paused and turned to face me. “Do you still want me here? Kung ayaw mo na sa akin sabihin mo. Nahihirapan na ako. Nagmumukha na akong gago. Para na akong asong habol ng habol sa’yo.”

She didn’t say anything. Tinitigan niya lang ako. Damn her and her fucking gorgeous eyes!

“Come on, make it easy! Say you don’t want me anymore! Say you don’t love me!” I said as I felt tears stinging the back of my eyes. “God, Val, I’ve never loved anyone enough to let them destroy me but you… I let you tear me into pieces!”

She bit the bottom of her lip as her expression softened.

“Sabihin mo sa akin na wala na akong halaga sa’yo, na hindi mo na ako mahal. Come on, just fucking say it! Huwag mo na akong pahirapan! Sabihin mo na ng hindi na ko nagmumukhang tanga!” I growled. Hindi magiging madaling iwan siya at kalimutan pero kung iyon ang gusto niya, pipilitin ko. I would prefer to leave with my dignity or what was left of it than stay and watch her be with another man. “Fucking say it!”

She shook her head, tears rolling down her face and that was all it took for mine to spill from my eyes. “I… I can’t…”

I cupped her face and locked my lips with her. I tasted heaven as I hungrily devoured her mouth, making up for all the times I didn’t get to kiss her. She kissed me back with so much passion I wanted it to go on forever. We got inside the house with our lips still attached. Madilim na sa loob at wala ng tao. Binuhat ko paakyat sa kwarto niya si Valerie nang hindi pa din naghihiwalay ang mga labi niya. I laid her down her bed and pressed my body on top of her as we kissed. We were thirsty for each other’s mouth and we couldn’t get ourselves to stop kissing. Our tongues were exploring each other’s mouth and intertwining. We were biting, nibbling, and sucking each other’s lips like there was no tomorrow.

My hands roam over her body. I stroked her side and stopped on her breast. I palmed it through her wet shirt and roughly squeezed her soft bosom. She moaned and groaned in my mouth. I wanted to touch her. I fucking ached to touch her with no stupid cloth getting in the way. Not wanting the kiss to end, I tore her shirt and bra with a single pull. She gasped in surprise. I caressed her bare breasts, giving it a tight squeeze as my thumb played with her rock hard nipple.

She arched her back, pressing her breast closer against my palm. I stroked her nipple and caught it between my two fingers, giving it a nice tight pinch. She latched harder on my lips and suckled strongly. Her mouth was so sweet, her taste was so intoxicating, her lips were so soft. This was really heaven on earth.

A groan in protest escaped from her throat when our lips seperated. We were both panting, grasping for air. My kiss went down to her chin and trailed down to her throat and the middle of her breasts. I stopped at her right breast and suckled on it and then I went for her left breast. She still had the purple marks I left on her body. Some were fresh from yesterday and some were starting to fade. Damn! It was so sexy. I love giving it to her. It was like a little secret between us. When she’s all dressed up, no one knows but me about these beautiful marks.

My kiss went down to her stomach. I left small, gentle kisses on it as I unbuttoned her pants and pulled it down along with her panties. She reached for the hem of my shirt and pulled it off, throwing it on the floor. She sat up, unbuttoned my pants and did the same thing until we were both naked. She sat on top of me, our lip finding its way into each other again. My hard cock nestled sweetly between her wet and warm folds as she was straddling me.

Valerie pushed me down the bed, making my lie down.

“No.” I firmly said as she positioned herself on top of me. “I won’t let you use me like that again, Val.” I shifted our position, pushing her down the bed and getting on top of her. “You wanted me to see what it feels like being used, didn’t you? I swear, I’ve learned my lesson.” I said and positioned myself between her legs.

She moaned when I thrusted into her with such force. I bent down and attached my lips back to her as I began to rock my hips. She answered my kiss with full abandon. I pumped in and out of her, skin hitting skin. I cupped her bottom with my hands. I gently inserted a finger into her ass, letting her walls adjust and when I felt her loosening up, I added another one. I fingered her ass while I was fucking her pussy.

“I love you.” I murmured against her lips.

She answered me with a moan. Oh, she was close. So close, I could feel her walls tightening around me. I stopped and she whined in frustration.

“Say you fucking love me too.” I demanded.

“I fucking love you too.” She chuckled, giving me soft kisses on the lips. “Now, will you please let me come?”

I began to move again and so did my fingers. She was moaning and writihing and arching her hips up, meeting my thrust. I slammed into her harder and faster until I hit my climax. I collapsed on top of her, nuzzling on her neck as we were catching our breathes.

“A-akala ko sumama ka na kay Guiliana.” Her fingers brushed through my wet hair.

I pushed my body up with my arms so that I could look at her in the eyes. “I would never… I love you, Val. Hindi pa ba sapat ang lahat ng ginawa ko para mapatunayan ko sa’yo na mahal kita? Ano pa ba ang kailangan kong gawin para maniwala ka?”

She shook her head as tears began to reside in the corners of her eyes. “Naniniwala na ako.”

I smiled, resting my forehead on hers. “Good God, I thought I lost you to David.”

“He’s just a friend.” She rolled her eyes.

“A friend who wants more out of your friendship than friends.” I pursed my lips in annoyance. “Akala mo hindi ko nahahalata ang mga pasimpleng hawak niya sa’yo? If you don’t stay away from him, I might end up in jail.”

“Huwag ka ng magselos sa kanya. Alam mo naman na ikaw lang ang mahal ko.” She giggled.

“The hell I do.” I chuckled. After our laughs died down, we looked into each others eyes. “We’ll fix everything, okay? Kung kailangan kong lumuhod sa daddy mo at kay Tristan para mapatawad nila ako gagawin ko.”

“You love me that much?” She smiled.

“I love you so much more. I would be willing to do more than that.” I brushed my nose against hers. “I thought you’d already know by now. I love you, Val.”

“I love you too, Axel.” She murmured.

We fell asleep into each other’s embrace.

I woke up nuzzled between Valerie’s sweet, soft bosom. There was nothing better than waking up to these. The sun was already up and it was searing through the curtains. I snuggled closer to her and she moaned and moved, turning to lie on her stomach. Damn! Bye bye boobies. I gave her soft and gentle kisses on her shoulder and gently bit it.

She shrugged her shoulder, “Axel, ano ba…?” moaning with her eyes still closed.

She was still tired from last night. I sighed as I sat up. No morning quickie for me.

I picked up my already dried clothes on the floor and started putting them on. I gave her a kiss on the hair. “Good morning, senyorita.” I whispered to her sleepyhead before heading towards the door.

I opened the door and was shocked to find Jaime standing in front of it. Hindi agad ako nakagalaw sa pagkabigla.

He looked over to my shoulder and I knew he could see Valerie’s naked back in bed with nothing on but white sheet to cover her bottom. I quickly shut the door close behind me when I realized that.

“Mag-usap tayo.” He said in controled anger. He turned his back to me and walked towards the door at the end of the corridor, leading to his study.

Chapter Forty Six

Axel’s POVIt was eerily quiet that I could clearly hear the clock ticking and my heart beating to the clock’s pace. Jaime lightly tapped his fingers on the table, on the bare wood,as he intently looked at me. I sat on the armchair in front of his desk, cowering like a guilty dog in front of him.

“Jai- senyor…” I said when I finally gathered enough courage to speak.

“I could have easily send you away noong nagmakaawa ka sa akin. But I gave you a chance, didn’t I?” He said in a clear, solid voice.

“Y-yes, sir.” I answered.

“Pumunta ka lang ba dito para i-kama ang anak ko?” His eyes narrowed at me.

“NO!” I immediately said, shaking my head. “Mahal na mahal ko si Valerie. Malinis ang intensyon ko sa anak niyo. What happened between us last night… just kind of happened.” It felt awkward talking about it with her father but I didn’t have a choice.

“What does that me? You just happened to stumble into her bedroom? I assume your clothes just happened to come off and you just tripped on her bed, is that right?” He sarcastically said in a harsh tone.

“No, sir.” I bowed my head. “I… I’m sorry. It was never in my plan to, um… bed her. Nandito ako para patunayan ko sa inyo na mahal ko ang anak niyo. I swear to God and you that I will never hurt her again. Sana mapatawad mo ako sa ginawa ko noon. I should’ve told Valerie the truth but I was too much of a coward, I was scared of losing her. Please, give me another chance.”

Valerie’s POV

It was already thirty minutes after ten, that was what it said on the clock. I sat up, stretching my arms like a cat who woke up from a good nap. This had to be the best sleep I have had in a while since moving out of Axel’s condominium. I remembered falling asleep in his arms last night but when I woke up, I was a little disappointed when he wasn’t beside me anymore.

Siguro maagang nagising at umalis para walang makakita sa kanya. Pupuntahan ko na lang siya. I jumped out of bed and hurriedly took a shower in the bathroom. I excitedly went to the toolshed where he was staying but I couldn’t find him there. I went to the sugarcane field to check if he was there but he wasn’t there either. Tinanong ko din sa mga trabahador kung nakita nila si Axel pero wala daw nakakita sa kanya. Where could he possibly be?I disappointedly went back home when I looked every place he could possibly be but still couldn’t find him.

I noticed something as I headed back to the house. The space where his silver Volkswagen car was used to be was now empty. My shoulders suddenly dropped and my heart sunk.Pumasok ako sa bahay at pabagsak na umupo sa couch. I felt like all my energy had drained away. He just left without saying anything to me? Akala ko okay na kami kagabi?

“Valerie.” My head snapped up when I heard dad calling me. He stood in front of me with a serious face.

“Dad!” I was startled for a moment. I didn’t even notice he was there.“Is something wrong?” He asked.

“Nothing.” I said, shaking my head.

“Have you seen Axel?”

“I saw him coming out of your room this morning.” Tiim-bagang na sabi niya.I blinked a couple of times, thinking of what I was going to say.

“Dad…” I chewed on my bottom lip. I was loss for words.

“I’m a very conservative man, Valerie. I raised you in a very conservative way. “ He said in an unnervingly rational tone. When he calls me by my name, you’d know he was dead mad. “I taught you what’s right from wrong. Hinayaan kitang magdesisyon para sa sarili mo dahil akala ko alam mo na kung ano ang tama at mali. This is where I step in and draw the line.”

“I’m sorry, daddy…” I guiltily said as my eyes dropped to the ground. “I love Axel. Alam kong mahal niya din ako.”

“Hindi porque mahal niyo ang isa’t isa tama na ang ginagawa ninyo.” He said in a stern voice. “Pinabalik ko na siya sa Maynila. It’s better to keep you two apart.”

“Dad, I’m sorry. I love you and I’m sorry.” I stood up and gave him a hug. He looked at me with frows burrowed when I pulled away from the hug. And then I ran to grab the key to my car. Tinawag ako ni dad pero hindi ko siya pinansin at tumakbo ako papunta sa kotse. I started the car and took off. I’d let my head out of equation and gone completely with my heart again. I once again gave myself completely to him. I forgave him. I learned to trust him again. I knew this time we could make it right.

I was on the road for a few hours before I stopped at the parking lot of his condominium building. I rode the elevator to his floor. I still had the key to his unit and used it to get inside.

How I missed this place, I couldn’t help but smile as I stepped in. Bukas ang pinto niya sa kwarto at ang ilaw nito. I went into his room, he wasn’t there but I saw the light pouring out of his bathroom door. Maingat na binuksan ko ang pinto.

There he was, sitting on the tub with his back to the door. I smiled, slowly walking up to him. Tinakpan ko ang mga mata niya ng palad ko. He was going to turn his head to me but I kept it still.

“Guess who this is?” I said in a high-pitched voice.

“Sarah?” He said and I frowned.

“No, no… you’re Karen? Or is it Donna?“At that moment, I wanted to gorge his eyes with my fingers. My jaw clenched in anger and I pushed him down the water. His arms flailed, splashing around as he tried to come up. I kept him down for a good ten seconds before letting him up. He gasped a deep lung full of air.

“You bastard! Magsama kayo ng Sarah, Karen, o Donna mo!” Galit na sabi ko sa kanya.

“Val, baby, I was just kidding.” He said still out of breath. Lumabas ako sa banyo at sinundan niya ako. All naked and wet. He wrapped his arms around me from behind and lifted me up. I tried to get away from his hold, fighting and shouting but he was too strong. The bastard just laughed as he carried me to the bed and gently put me down on it. Dumagan siya sa akin para hindi ako makagalaw.I gave him a slap on the cheek.

“Walanghiya ka! Kung alam ko lang… di na sana ako pumunta dito!” My lips pouted slightly.“I was just kidding.” Natatawang sabi niya. “Alam kong ikaw yun. I know your perfume. Isa pa, ikaw lang naman ang babaeng dinala ko dito.”

My pout grew bigger. “Weh? Sinasabi mo lang yan kasi nahuli na kita.” “

Val, we’d live together in this condominium. May nakita ka na bang babaeng pumunta o bumisita dito?“ One of his brows curved up.

“Si Guiliana.” My eyes narrowed.

“That’s a different case.” He sighed. “Nakuha niya ang address ko sa lawyer ko. He thought she was going to send me the divorce papers. Pero bukod sa kanya, wala na, di ba?”

I shook my head. What he said seemed to calm me down a little.

“O ye of little faith.” The grin reaches his eyes as he kissed my forehead. “I thought I’ve already proved to you that I’m yours. You don’t have to worry about anything. I’m yours regardless of who or what might come along. Everything I am and everything I want to be is completely tied up to you.“My heart swelled with happiness that I wanted to cry but I held it in.

“Bakit mo ko iniwan?” My lips pursed.

“Your dad made me leave.” He showered me with small kisses from my forehead to the side of my face. “Babalikan naman kita. The thought of a single day without you in my life is hell for me. I promised to myself that I’ll have you back again but this time it’s going to be for good.”

A smile finally crept on my lips at what he said. I wrapped my arms around his neck. “I already called my mom and dad. Kakausapin ko dapat sila ngayong gabi. I want my parents to meet your dad.” He explained.

“Really?” My voice squeaked.

“Really.” He nodded his head.

“I love you.” “

I love you, too.“ I kissed him on the jaw.His mouth lowered to mine and we kissed like our life depended on it. We were both startled by the sound of the doorbell being rung nonstop.

“Come the fuck on!” He groaned, burying his face on my neck.

“Baka si Karen yun, o di kaya si Sarah o si Donna.” I said half-joking, half-annoyed.

“I swear, I just made those names up.” He pushed his body up from mine with his arm.“Just get the door.” I told him.

He grabbed a pair of jeans and a gray shirt. He put it on before getting out of the room. The next thing I heard was him and another person. They were talking at first, I could faintly hear them but I couldn’t understand what they were talking about. Their voice started to raise in what seemed to be like an angry manner. That was when I decided to get out of the room and check on him.

Binuksan ko ang pinto at nakita ko si Axel na nakaupo sa sahig sapo ang pisngi niya habang nakatayo si Tristan sa harap niya.

“Ilang taon tayong naging magkaibigan. Alam ko mga katrantaduhan mo.” Tristan shouted angrily. “Walanghiya ka, pati kapatid ko tinalo mo.”

“Dude, it’s not what you think. Seryoso ako kay Valerie.” He said as he forced himself up.

“Tristan…” I called him in a small voice.He turned his head, his eyes were sharp and piercing angrily through me as he took big, heavy steps to where I was standing. He grabbed me by my wrist at kinaladkad niya ako. Axel tried to grab me away from him but he threw another punch at him. Napatili ako. Without saying anything, he dragged me out of the condominium and to his car. Pabalang na ipinasok niya ako sa passenger’s seat at isinara ang pinto bago siya sumakay sa driver’s side.

He started the car and drove off. I looked at Tristan. He seemed to age a couple of years since the last time I saw him. He looked so stressed out, like he hadn’t had enough sleep for days. I felt bad kasi pakiramdam ko nakadagdag ako sa kung anuman ang pinagdadaanan niya.He stopped the car in front of a restaurant and we quietly sat on the table next to the window.

“Tristan.” I said after what felt like eternity of silence. “Paano mo nalaman na nasa condo ako ni Axel?”

“Dad called me. Sabi niya lumuwas ka daw dito para puntahan si Axel. I can’t believe this, Valerie!” He tried to keep his voice low but hard. “Pagkatapos ka niyang gaguhin, bumalik ka pa rin sa kanya!”

“You don’t understand…” I shook my head. “Divorced na siya. Mahal niya ako at mahal ko siya. Sana maintindihan niyo iyon.”

“Sana maintindihan mo din na itong ginagawa namin para sa kapakanan mo din. We don’t want you to get hurt again. Lalo na si dad, you’re his princess. He’ll protect you with his life if he has to.” He said in a slightly softer tone.

“I understand.” I said in a broken voice. “But I’m not a little girl anymore, Tristan. Kung magkamali man ulit ako, let me make my own mistakes.”“It’s not going to be easy for dad. Tayo na lang ang meron siya. In his mind, you’ll always be his little princess.”

My throat felt like there was a huge lump on it as I tried to keep my tears from falling. We sat quietly for a couple of minutes. He kept quiet, giving me the space I needed.

“Val, lumaki akong walang pamilya. Axel and I were like brothers, my friends were the only family I’ve known before I met you and dad. Isa siya sa importante at espesyal na tao sa buhay ko.” He took a deep sigh.

“Hindi madali para sa akin ang ginagawa kong ’to.“I nodded my head to let him know that I understand. My eyes lowered to the plate in front of me. “Andi!” I heard him say. Umangat ang ulo ko at nakita ko si Andi na nakatayo sa tabi ng mesa namin. She threw me a spiteful glare before glaring back at Tristan.

“My god, you still whore yourself to this slut? How much does she pay you to fuck you?” She said in a loud and angry voice. The people near our table started turning their heads to our direction.“Excuse me?” I said shocked and embarrassed.

“Andi, it’s not what you think. Val is my-”“Your sugar mama. Sa kanya nanggaling ang lahat ng meron ka, hindi ba?” She looked at me with eyes full of hate. “What will you give him next? Another condo unit, a brand new car?”

“I… I don’t know what you’re talking about.” I said, rather confused.She lifted the glass of water in front of me and I was surprised when she threw the water on my face. I gasped and shrilled. “Now do you know what I’m talking about, you homewrecking skank?”

“How dare you?“I stood up from my seat and was ready to give her a good slap on the face. Malditang babae ’to! She’d definetely get what she asked for.

Tristan was quick to take action. Pumagitna siya sa amin dalawa bago ko pa nadampian ng palad ko ang mukha niya.“Val, please, she’s pregnant!” Sabi ni Tristan habang pilit kaming pinaghihiwalay.

Chapter Forty Seven

Valerie’s POV

Andi walked away and Tristan tried to stop her but couldn’t. I had no idea what was going on and all I could do was sit there and watch them. I knew they had a past. They used to be together but fate was cruel to them that it had to separate them. Now, Andi was already married and I knew my brother still couldn’t get over her.

Andi was half way through the restaurant’s door but she suddenly paused and held onto the nearest chair she could grab as if she was losing balance. She placed her hand on her still flat belly. She was pregnant. I knew something was wrong and I got worried about her and especially the baby.

Agad na tumakbo palapit si Tristan kay Andi at hinawakan siya sa baywang para suporta. I gasped in horror when I saw a small stream of blood running down her legs.

“Oh my god, my baby!” She shrieked in equal horror when she looked down.

Napamura ng malakas si Tristan at binuhat si Andi. He walked out of the restaurant, carrying her. I quickly took a bill from my wallet and just left it on the table before following after them. Tristan stopped on the side of his car. I opened the backseat and he layed Andi down there. Andi was hysterically crying.

“Mahal ko, please calm down.” He gently said.

“This is all your fault! I hate you.” She said between her sobs.

He turned his back from Andi. I could see that he was holding back his tears. I told him that he should drive and I’d stay at the back with Andi. He ran to the driver’s seat as I slipped into the back and lifted her head to my lap. She was crying and screaming, telling me that she couldn’t lose another baby. I ran my fingers through her hair and tried to calm her down.

Relief took over me when Tristan stopped in front of the hospital. Binuhat niya si Andi papasok sa emergency room. The doctors took her and we had to wait outside. Tristan sat on one of the hospital bench with a glazed looked on his face, his eyes rested on his lap in a trance like state, completely motionless. He only comes back when he hears the door to the emergency room open. Itinatanong niya sa mga nurse kung kamusta na si Andi pero walang makasagot sa kaniya.

“She’ll be alright.” I said, sitting next to him and patting his shoulder.

“I hope so. Val, hindi ko mapapatawad ang sarili ko kapag may nangyari kay Andi at sa bata.” His voice shook. “We’ve lost a baby before and I don’t know how she will take it if she losses our baby again.”

“The baby is yours?” May bahid ng pagkabiglang tanong ko.

He ran his fingers through his hair in agitation. “ I… I don’t know but I feel like the baby’s mine.“

“She has a husband, Tristan.” Sabi ko.

“It’s wrong but I love her, Val. Mahal na mahal ko si Andi.”

“And you tried to stop me from loving Axel. You’re a hypocrite.” I said accusingly.

“Because I know what it feels like to love someone who’s already married. I know how it feels to keep that love in secret. Alam ko yung pakiramdam nang may iba siyang inuuwian. That at the end of the day, no matter what we do, she’s still somebody else’s wife.” He said, almost in tears. “I don’t ever want you to experience all that.”

“But Tristan, iba ang sitwasyon namin sa inyo. Yes, he didn’t tell me that he was married but he and Guiliana were long estranged. Mahal ako ni Axel at mahal ko siya.” I took both his hands in mine. I knew this was the wrong time to talk about it but we already got there. “Napatunayan niya sa akin iyon. He left his comfortable life here in Manila and worked at our hacienda. He lived in a toolshed with no electricity and he slept on a hard and old wooden bed. He worked day in and day out.”

“Hindi iyon ang sukatan ng pagmamahal.”

“Then what is, Tristan?!” My voice raised. “Paano mo ba sinusukat ang pagmamahal mo kay Andi? You left her… iniwan mo si Andi noon, hindi ba? You could’ve asked for our help, Tristan. Do you want me to leave Axel too? Iyon ba ang gusto mong mangyari? At pagkatapos ano? Kapag nakahanap siya ng iba, saka ako hahabol sa kanya kung kailan huli na? I don’t want to be a desperate, miserable mess like you.”

He lowered his eyes to the ground, pain evident in his eyes.

My jaw dropped open at the realization of all the things I’ve said. “I… Tristan, I-I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean what I said…”

His face dropped even more. He stood from his seat and walked away. I had hurt his already aching feelings. It was such a bitchy move. Ngayon pa kung kailan nanganganib ang buhay ng babaeng mahal niya at ng anak niya. I knew he only meant well but those horrible things I said to him was unforgivable

.After a few minutes of waiting there and regretting every word I said to Tristan, the doctor went out of the emergency room. Sakto naman bumalik si Tristan. His eyes were red from crying and I felt so bad.

He asked the doctor if Andi was okay and the doctor said they closed her cervix and successfully stopped the bleeding but they still have to get some test to find out if the fetus was still there. Tristan looked devastated as ever when he heard what the doctor said about the baby. Pinapasok siya ng doktor sa loob ng kwarto para makita si Andi at naghintay ako sa labas. It only took a few minutes for him to come out of the room, his eyes redder and puffier than before.

“How is she?” Tanong ko ng makalabas siya.

“Ikaw muna ang bahala kay Andi. I already called her cousin, Phoenix, his on his way. Please don’t leave her.” Sabi niya at nagmamadaling tumalikod sa akin.

“Saan ka pupunta?” I asked but he ignored me. Little did I know, that would be our last conversation for a long time.

Axel’s POV

I held the cold pack to my bruised jaw after taking a shower and cleaning the blood and bruises on my face. I winced and groaned when it touched my bruise. My face was awfully painful. If it weren’t for Valerie, I would of fought back. Pero alam kong ako ang mali dito. I deserved this.

I needed to fix things between us and Tristan. If I had to get punched everyday, I would gladly accept those punches if that meant he’d forgive me and let me be with Valerie. Those weeks when Valerie went back to the hacienda and left me here was the worst thing I had ever experienced. Mas gugustuhin kong maging punching bag ni Tristan kaysa malayo sa akin si Valerie.

I turned on the tv to kill time but my mind wandered on Valerie again. I was planning on asking Jaime for her hand in marriage, you know the old style way, the way he wanted. I called my parents and told them about it. Charlotte was excited. Pagkatapos kong dalhin noon si Val sa mansyon para ipakilala sa kanila, she would invite Valerie out for lunch or go shopping with her without me knowing. I only found out about it when I got home from a late night meeting and mom was in my unit, she was teaching Valerie to make one of my favorite food, bouillabaisse. She adored Valerie, she said she was the daughter she never had. And Augusto being the logical man he was, said I should think about it but after Charlotte convinced her that Valerie would make a good daughter-in-law he just went with it and let my mother have her way.

The phone rang and I reached for it on the coffee table. Phoenix’s name was on the screen.

“Hey, what’s up?” I said when I answered the phone.

“Tristan had an accident.” Phoenix said in an urgent tone.Napabalikwas ako.

“What? Ano’ng klaseng accident?”

“Car accident. It’s bad, man.” Phoenix said.

I felt like my heart dropped to the pit of my stomach. And Valerie popped into my mind, she was with Tristan! And my heart sunk further down. I limped against the couch, drained of energy. “Si Valerie? Nasaan si Valerie? Is she safe? Are they okay?”

“Valerie’s here with me at the hospital. She’s safe, she wasn’t in the car when the accident happened. But Tristan, well… we still don’t know.”

“Fuck!” I said under my breath. “I’m going there. Nasaan kayo?”

Phoenix told me what hospital they were at and I hurriedly went to my car and drove off. Within just minutes, I got there. Phoenix and Valerie were sitting at the hall of the hospital when I got there. Agad akong lumapit kay Valerie at niyakap siya. She buried her face in my chest and started sobbing.

“Shh… Val baby, you know I hate seeing you cry.” I said, kissing her forehead.

“Inaway ko pa siya kanina.” She sniffed.

“He’ll be fine. He’s a tough son of a bitch. Alam kong kayang-kaya niya yan.” I rubbed her back as she cried.

“I’m such a horrible sister, Axel.” She cried.

“No, no you’re not. Don’t say that.” I sat next to Valerie, comforting her as we waited outside of the surgery room for Tristan.

After about two hours of waiting, he was rolled out of the surgery room on a hospital bed. There were tubes and a lot of machines attached to him. The doctor said he was in a coma. His head was badly injured from the accident. They had to put him in the ICU.

Pagkatapos siyang ayusin sa kwarto niya ay pinapasok na kami. While we were already in the room, biglang dumating si Andi. She sat next to Tristan’s bed, held his hand and cried.

I hugged Valerie tighter, the tightest I could, her face buried to my shoulder. At a blink of an eye, it could all end. Someday our hearts will stop and our breath will cease. I was crumbling thinking how fragile life was, how easily someone could be taken away from you. That you could be holding the person you love one moment and she could be gone the next.

I loved Valerie and she loved me. All my life, I knew I had waited for her, longed for her. I had known loved and had been blessed by it. At hinding-hindi ko na pakakawalan ito. Who knew when the end would come along and sweep us away?

I closed my eyes The sight of my friend helpless body lying there, hanging between life and death and the thought of this sweet, beautiful woman in my arms being taken away from me was enough to make tears spill down my eyes.

Wayne and Seth came after a few minutes and about an hour after that, Jaime came too. Bumitaw si Valerie mula sa akin ng makita niya ang daddy niya at yumakap dito. Jaime threw me a sharp look before turning his attention to Tristan.

He stood there looking over at him with his hands in his pockets and a grim look on his face.We were crowding the room and we wanted to give Jaime some privacy so we went out. Si Andi na lang at si Jaime ang naiwan sa loob kasama ni Tristan. None of us spoke, an air of sorrow hanged over us, an air of stillness and despair.

Pagkaraan ng ilang sandali ay muli ulit kaming pumasok. Valerie went up to Andi who was still sitting on the chair next to Tristan, hindi pa rin niya binibitawan ang kamay nito at nakatitig lang sa kanya. She placed a hand on her shoulder.

“Andi, it’s already late. Hindi ba sabi ng doktor kailangan mong magpahinga?” Valerie said but Andi doesn’t seem to hear her.

Phoenix went up to them. “Come on, ihahatid na kita.”

“Dito lang ako. I’ll wait for him to wake up.” Andi whispered.

“You need to go home and take a rest.” Valerie said.

She shooked her head. “I just don’t want to leave him. He needs to wake up.”

“You almost had a miscarriage, Andi. Kung hindi mo aalagaan yang sarili mo baka kung mapaano yang ipinagbubuntis mo. Hindi matutuwa si Tristan niyan kapag may nangyari sa baby niyo.” Val said.

“Kami na ang bahala kay Tristan, hija.” Jaime gave her a smile of assurance. “He’s going to be fine. My son will wake up. He has gone through this before and he will great throught it again. I know he’s going to wake up.”

Andi left with Phoenix. He offered to take Andi home and he needed to go home too because he had to take care of his newborn twins. Bigla na lang naglahong parang bula si Cassie, Phoenix’s wife, pagkatapos manganak nito kaya siyang mag-isa ang nag-aalaga sa mga bata. Valerie, on the other hand, took Jaime to the hospital’s cafeterie to eat. He couldn’t skip a meal because he was on medication. Wayne and Seth went with them and I was left with Tristan.

I sat on the chair where Andi sat and stared at his unconcious body. I took in a deep breath before speaking.

“Dude, kung naririnig mo ako, sana mapatawad mo ako. It was never my plan to fall in love with your sister. I would never want to ruin our friendship but I guess I did, huh?” I sighed. “Hinding-hindi ko lolokohin si Valerie. Hinding-hindi ko siya paiiyakin. I promise to do my best to make her happy. She’s everything I ever wanted. I love your sister and I’m so scared of losing her. I’ve never been so scared of losing something in my entire life but then again nothing in my life has ever meant as much to me as she does. Sana maintindihan mo ako. Kaya kong gawin ang lahat para sa pagkakaibigan natin pero hindi ang layuan si Valerie. I’ll do anything you ask, just not that. Saka ayaw mo ba nun, we’re not just going to be best friends, we’re going to be brother-in-laws.” I let out a soft chuckle. If Tristan was awake, he would have probably killed me by now. Siguro nga gustong-gusto ng gumising ni Tristan para sakalin ako. “You need to wake up, okay? We need to talk. Man to man. We need you, Andi needs you and your baby too. And your future niece and nephew needs a wonderful uncle like you, you know?” Dumating na si Valerie, si Jaime, si Seth at si Wayne mula sa cafeteria. When they came in, I went out of the room and sat on one of the bench outside of it.

Maya-maya ay sumunod sa akin si Valerie at lumabas din siya mula sa kwarto. She went to the vending machine and got a cup of coffee. She sat beside me and handed it to me.

“O, magkape ka muna. Hindi ka pa kumakain.” She said.

I took it from her and she rested her head on my shoulder.

I looked down at the cup of coffee in my hand and couldn’t help but smile.

Déjà vu. This was how we started, when Tristan was in the hospital. She handed me a cup of coffee, sat next to me and we started talking. She was most beautiful and interesting woman I had ever met in my whole life. She had the most expressive eyes and the brightest smile I had ever seen in anyone.

“This was how we met.” Sabi ko.

Inangat niya ang ulo niya at tumingin sa akin. “Huh?”

“You gave me a cup of coffee three years ago while Tristan was in the hospital.” I smiled.

“You still remember.” She quietly said.

“Of course I do! How could I forget? Noong araw na iyon, nakilala ko ang pinakamagandang babaeng nakita ko. My future wife and the mother of my future children.”

“Axel…” Napaawang ang bibig niya.“Val, alam ko hindi ito ang tamang lugar at panahon para dito pero hindi ko na kayang patagalin ito. Life is short and I want to spend every moment of it with you. I want you to be my wife, the mother of my children, I want to watch our children grow, and their children, and their children’s children.” I took in a deep breathe and puffed. “I would love nothing more than to grow old with you and spend the rest of my sex life with you.“A giggle roast from her throat and tears swelled from the corners of her eyes.“Valerie Zamora, will you marry me?”“Oh my god!” She held her hand over her mouth and tears fell from her eyes.“Val…”“Yes, oh God, yes!” She said and threw her arms around me.

Chapter Forty Eight

Valerie’s POV

Dad and I stayed at Tristan’s condominium. Dad used his room and I used the guest’s room while he was in the hospital. He decided to stay here in Manila because he wanted to take care of Tristan. It had already been three weeks and he still hadn’t woke up. The good news was that he was now in a stable condition. They tried everything they could but it was up to him and his body to wake up.

Axel and I still couldn’t find the right moment to tell that about our plan to get married. I thought dad still needed a little more time to recover from what happened to Tristan before we tell him. I could see it was hard on him, on all of us. Everyone was still stressed out so we decided to keep our mouth shut about it for awhile. Regular pa rin naman kaming nagkikita ni Axel kapag bumibisita siya sa ospital. But it had to be out of dad’s sight.

I heard the door outside open. I had already taken a shower and was getting ready to go to the hospital. I knew it was dad. Sometimes, he spends the night in the hospital to look after Tristan and then he goes home in the morning.

I swung my bag on my shoulder and got out of my room. At tama nga ako, si dad iyon. I gave him a kiss on the cheek.

“Pupunta ka na kay Tristan?” He asked.

“Yes, dad.” I smiled. “Gusto mong timplahan muna kita ng coffee?”

“No, that’s alright, darling. You go ahead.” He said.

“Okay. Bye, dad. I love you.” I sweetly said.

“I love you too. Be careful on the road.” Paalala niya.

Bumaba ako sa parking lot at sumakay sa kotse. I drove to the hospital and found that Andi was already there. Walang araw na hindi bumibisita si Andi kay Tristan. She had always been by her side from day one.

When I got there, Andi was patting water soaked cotton on Tristan’s lips. She does that everyday to put moisture on his lips. She massages Tristan’s legs para daw hindi matulog ang mga muscles niya at hindi siya mahirapan maglakad paggising niya. She also gives him spongebath every other day. Hindi niya pinabayaan si Tristan. I could see how much she loves Tristan and how devoted she was to him.

“Hi!” She smiled when she noticed me standing on the side of the bed.

“Hi.” I smiled back at her. “How is he?”

“Still as handsome as ever.” She answered, stroking his hair with her fingers.

I let out a low chuckle as I looked at him on his bed. “Yeah…” Then my eyes averted to the small bump on her tummy. “Lumalaki na si baby. It’s starting to show.”

Napangiti siya at napahawak sa tiyan niya. “I know. Sana lang gumising na siya bago ko maipanganak ang baby namin. I want him to be there when I give birth.” She sighed heavily and looked at Tristan.

“Of course, he’s going to be there! Hindi palalampasin ni Tristan iyon.” I cheerfully said to lighten up the mood. I couldn’t imagine how stressful it was to be in Andi’s situation, being pregnant and being dealt with this. Bukod dito, inaasikaso niya pa ang pagdivorce nila ng asawa niya. Sometimes I wonder how she does it all.

“Hey, I have a doctor’s appointment today for the baby.” She said, looking down at her wrist watch. “D’yan lang naman sa baba yung doktor ko. Kailangan ko munang umalis, sandali lang ako.”

“Sure, ako na ang bahala dito.” I said.

“Thank you.” She said with a smile. She leaned over to Tristan and gave him a kiss on the forehead before she left.

I sat on the armchair next to Tristan’s bed. I stared at him for awhile and took his hand in mine.

“Tristan… Kuya… it feels weird calling you kuya.” I chuckled quietly and then I took in a deep breath. “Axel already asked me to marry him. Sana maintindihan mo kami. We love each other and I don’t want to lose him. You don’t have to worry about me. Kaya ko naman ang sarili ko. Kung lokohin man niya ako, I will chop his dick off. Tristan, alam kong mahal din ako ni Axel and I don’t see any reason why we can’t be together. Nandyan na naman ulit si Andi at magkakaron pa kayo ng baby. You already have them. They’re just waiting for you to wake up, we all are. I want to be happy with Axel too.”

I sat there for about half an hour, talking to Tristan. They say people in coma can sometimes hear. Kaya nga madalas siyang kinakausap ni Andi. The door suddenly opened, I thought it was Andi but when I turned my head to the door I saw Axel. He lifted his lips up in a smile as he walked towards me.

He sat on one of the arms of the seat I was sitting on and kissed me on the lips.

“I was just telling him that you finally proposed to me.” I said, looking at him.

“What did he say? Tanggap niya na ba akong maging brother-in-law?” He asked.

“Well, he’s still having second thoughts about it. Sabi niya baka daw lokohin mo lang ako, baka daw mangbabae ka.”

“I would never… Tristan, did you really say that? How could you, dude? Mahal na mahal ko ang kapatid mo, hindi ko siya lolokohin at lalong hindi ako mangbababae.” He said, looking at Tristan with a hurt expression. At humarap siya sa akin. He cupped my chin between his two fingers and tilted my head up to him. “Val, you know I love you I would never do that to you.”

“I know and I love you too.” I smiled.

“Give me your hand.” He said.

“Why?” I asked.

“Basta, akin na yang kamay mo.” He said and I lifted my hand to him. He took it in his hand and took something out of his pocket. A small red box. Binuksan niya ang box at inilabas ang singsing and then he slipped it on my finger. I looked at my hand, my mouth dropped in awe as I looked at the ring. It had a big, oval clear pink diamond placed on the center around the small diamonds. It looked so beautiful.

“Do you like it?”

“I love it.” Mahinang sabi ko.

“I’m sorry it came a little too late. I had it delivered from Russia.” He said.

“Thank you, Axel.” I reached my arms to him and hugged him.

“You’re welcome, baby. Ngayong nasabi na natin kay Tristan ang tungkol sa pagpapakasal natin, kailan mo naman balak sabihin sa daddy mo?”

“I still don’t know. You know how stressed out he’d been since the accident. Ngayon pa lang siya nakakarecover.”

“I have plan. Why don’t you invite your dad out for lunch or dinner next week and my parents and I will meet you at the restaurant? How does that sound?”

“That’s a good idea.” I agreed. “Your parents already know?”

“Yeah, I told them about it. My mother thinks you’d make a good wife.” He said as he stroked my hair and kissed the crown of it. I couldn’t help but smile at what he said.

He looked at Tristan. “Dude, you have to wake up. Kailangan namin ng best man.”

The week passed quickly. Dumating na ang araw na pinag-usapan namin ni Axel. I invited dad out to dinner, he was hesitant at first but I told him na hindi naman masama kung paminsan-minsan lumabas siya. That he needed to unwind once in a while. Nandoon naman si Andi para magbantay sa ospital at hindi niya pababayaan si Tristan. I finally convinced him to go out with me and we drove to the restaurant.

I wrapped my arms around one of his as we walked inside.

“Pwede naman sa bahay na lang tayo kumain o kaya magpadeliver na lang sa ospital.” Dad said.

“Daddy, you need to need to go out once in awhile. Alam ko naman stressed out ka na sa mga nangyayari, you need to relax.” I said, stroking his arm.

Dad just sighed and shooked his head. We were greeted by the receptionist, I gave her name and she took us to our table. Nandoon na sina Axel, tita Charlotte at si tito Augusto ng dumating kami. Dad was surprised when he saw them.

“What is this?” Tanong niya sa akin.

“Just take a seat, dad.” I smiled, guiding him to his chair. I sat in between him and Axel, while his parents sat across from us.

“Hello, Jaime. I’m so pleased to see you again.” Tita Charlotte said with enthusiasm. “I am Charlotte Lavigne. We’ve met at a fund raising event years ago, remember?”

“Yes, Charlotte. I remember you.” Dad said.

“Ito naman ang asawa ko. Augusto Lavigne.” She introduced.

Axel’s dad let out a subtle smile. “I’m glad we’ve finally met.”

“I’m glad to see you here, Augusto, Charlotte.” Dad looked at both of them. “But I don’t understand what’s going on.”

“Sir, this was all my idea.” Singit ni Axel. “I would like to ask for your daughter’s hand in marriage. Sinama ko ang mga magulang ko para malaman niyong seryoso ako sa anak niyo at malinis ang intensyon ko.”

Hindi kumibo si dad. He kept a stoic silence.

“Dad…” Hinawakan ko siya sa braso. I looked at him, begging for him to say yes.

“I love your daughter, Jaime. She’s the only thing in the world I want. Wala akong hindi gagawin para sa kanya. I want to make it right this time, for you and for us. I would do anything to have your blessing.”

Dad let out a sigh. “Pag-isipan niyo muna iyan. Baka nabibigla ka lang, hijo. Hindi ako naniniwala sa divorce. Remember, when you marry someone it’s for life, for better or for worse.”

“There will never be a divorce, sir. I promise you.” He said.

Axel suddenly got to his feet and we watched as he walked to dad’s side, wondering what he’d do. He dropped to his knees in front of my dad.

“Jaime, I’m begging you. Please, can we have your blessing? I’ve never desperately wanted anything so much as much as I want this. I promise to love her ’til my last breath. I want to walk through like with her by my side, I want to build a future together with her. Please, Jaime…”

Dad looked at me, his eyes softened and then he looked back at Axel. He sighed as if defeated. “Nasa tamang edad na naman kayo. Just promise me you won’t hurt my daughter.”

“I promise.” Axel said with a huge smile on his face.

Agad akong tumayo mula sa kinauupuan ko at tumakbo ako kay Axel. I hugged him tightly and he lifted up off the floor, giving me a kiss on the lips. It was official. We were now engaged. We already had my dad’s blessing. The dinner turned out great. Dad got along easily with Axel’s parents. We all got to know each other more. We shared stories and a few good laughs. It ended so well.

Nauna ng lumabas si dad at ang mga magulang ni Axel. Naiwan kaming dalawa para magpaalam sa isa’t isa. Tumayo siya mula sa kinauupuan niya at kinuha niya ang kamay ko para tulungan akong tumayo. We started walking out the restaurant with my arms wrapped around his.

I gave him a slap on his arm while we were walking.

“Ow! What was that for?” He asked.

“Kanino ka ba talaga nagpropose sa akin o kay dad?” Nagtatampong sabi ko.

“What?” He looked at me with brows wrinkled.

“Bakit kay daddy lumuhod ka sa akin hindi?” I pouted.

He laughed and threw his head back. “Oh, Valerie, you brat!”

“You proposed to me in the hospital… without a ring!” I whined.

“I’m sorry, baby, you’re right.” He stopped walking and faced me. “Let’s do it the right way. Give me the ring.”

I smiled cheekily. Hinubad ko ang singsing at ibinigay ko sa kanya. He knelt down in one knee and held the ring in front of him. “Valerie Zamora, the love of my life, my soul mate, my bad girl, my bratty princess, my reason to live, will you marry me?”

This was the second time he proposed to me but God, the tears, they just kept coming. “Yes, i’d always say yes to you!”

He stood up, slipped the ring back on my finger. He cupped my face and gave me a deep, passionate kiss. I knew I would never regret this. I knew with absolute certainty that we were made for each other. He was my reason for living and I loved him with every breath I took.

Chapter Forty Nine

Valerie’s POV

“Look at my ring.” I held my hand out in front of their faces with a large beam on my face. I called my friend out and invited them out for lunch so I could tell them the good news. They needed to know! “Isn’t it beautiful?”

“Oh my god!” Amy gasped, staring at it with wide sparkling eyes.

“It’s so pretty.” Venus said, taking my hand and looking at it up close.

“Axel gave it to me. Galing pang Russia yan, it’s the highest quality of diamond.” I proudly said.

“That’s from Axel?” Tanong ni Trina.

“Yes! He finally asked me to marry him.” I excitedly said.

“Shut up!” Hindi makapaniwalang sabi niya.

“Don’t tell us you’re pregnant?!” Venus exclaimed.

“Buntis ka?” Amy asked.

“No, I’m not pregnant ’no! Nakakaloka!” I said with my best impression of Kris Aquino.

“Then why are you two getting married?” Trina gave me a puzzled look.

“Because I love him and he loves me.” I smiled.

“Oh God! I can’t believe this. You’re getting married to Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne?! Baka naman ilusyon mo lang yan.” Venus said, skeptical.

I rolled my eyes at her. “Hindi, no! He even asked my dad for my hand in marriage. Huwag kayong mag-alala kahit hindi kayo naniniwala dati na ikakasal kami ni Axel, invited pa din kayo sa wedding namin. Sabi ko naman sa inyo, what Valerie wants, Valerie gets.”

“Is this the real life?” Amy still couldn’t believe it.

“You guys are so supportive of me talaga.” I sarcastically said.

“We just couldn’t believe it but we’re all happy for you.” Sabi ni Trina. She got up from her seat and walked towards me, giving me a hug. “Congratulations, future Mrs. Lavigne.”

The two of them joined in too and we shared a group hug. I could feel their support and love for me. I told them how he proposed to me in the hospital and how he begged for my dad’s blessing. They listened with focused attention as if they were watching a good chick flick movie.

“I can’t believe Axel would ever do that.” Venus said.

“I didn’t know he was that romantic.” Trina sighed, dreamily.

“I’ve always thought he was just a penis with a body attached to it.” Amy giggled.

“Hey, don’t talk that way about my fiancee.” I frowned.

“I’m sorry. Now that he’s going to be your husband. Promise, kalilimutan ko na the hot night we shared together.” Amy raised her right hand.

“Yeah, I guess I’ll have to forget about his big… ego, too.” Trina snickered.

“Oh and his touch and the way he moans and groans.” Venus bit her bottom lip.

“Seriously, stop it…” I said, unsmiling. I knew it was all in the past but I couldn’t help but get jealous. Hello! They were talking about my future husband. They had seen his naked body before I did, they had tasted him before I did… Mas nauna pa sila sa akin pero di bale, na sa akin naman ang huling halakhak.

“We’re just teasing you.” Natatawang sabi ni Trina.

“From now on, it never happened.” Amy grinned.

“I’m so glad you’re not pregnant. I can’t imagine what you’d look like with a big belly.” Venus winced.

“Not to mention those disgusting stretch marks! May sister had stretch marks when she got pregnant, you’ll ruin your flawless skin.” Sabi naman ni Trina.

“Yeah, and when you give birth the baby will ruin your vagina. Can you imagine how big a newborn baby is… that thing, it’ll come out of you, bursting out like an alien out of your vagina.” Amy grimaced.

I rolled my eyes at them and sighed. “It’s not that bad. I want to have a baby with Axel after we get married!”

More days passed by. We had already started planning for the wedding. Where the wedding would be, what flowers we would use, the guests, the bridesmaid, the bestman. Everything was all planned out. We were still waiting for the bestman to wake up. I knew Tristan would wake up just in time. He wouldn’t miss my wedding.

We were now at a boutique of one of the best fashion designers ever. They took our measurements for the wedding dress and the suit for Axel. The designer asked me what kind of wedding dress I wanted, he had a pencil in his hand and a sketchpad in front of him.

“I want a long, flowy beige dress. I want it to be modest and simple.” I said.

“Beige? I think you’d look fabulous in a white wedding dress.” Sabi ng designer.

“Hindi na bagay sa akin ang magsuot ng white wedding dress. May bahid na ako. I’m not a virgin anymore.” I chuckled. The designer laughed along with me.

“Valerie!” Dad who was sitting in front of said, embarrassment evident on his face. I completely forgot that Dad was there with us.

“Sorry, daddy.” I bit my bottom lip.

He threw a scowling look at Axel, who had his arm dangling around my shoulders, and Axel bowed his head in what looked like an apology.

“Okay lang yan, daddy.” The gay fashion designer said. “Sa panahon ngayon si Mary na lang ang virgin.”

After the sketch was finished, dad left. But before he did, he reminded Axel to keep his hands to himself and no funny business. Even though we were already engaged, that didn’t stop dad from being so overprotective of me. He still treated me like a little girl. Sa ospital na nga lang kami madalas magkita ni Axel under his watchful eyes. Minsan na lang kami nakakalabas at kapag kasama ko si Axel and he would always check on us. He would call me or Axel every ten minutes whenever we were together. And I had a curfew. Kailangan naibalik na ako ni Axel sa bahay bago mag ten o’clock.

I saw it as a good thing din naman to stay celibate until our wedding night. It would make it more special.

Sumakay kami sa kotse ni Axel at pumunta sa isang restaurant para maglunch.

“Finally, na solo din kita.” He sighed. “You’re dad looked like he wanted to skin me alive earlier.”

“I’m sorry, baby.” I giggled, wrapping my arms around him and giving him a kiss on the jaw. “He’s just being protective of me.”

“I know. I know.” He nodded his head and turned his head to me. “We have the rest of the day. Want to go to my place?” He smiled, raising his brow up and down.

“Axel, I know that look!” I shook my head.

“Come on, it’s been months since the last time we made love.” He pulled me closer to him, kissing my hair.

“I just think maybe we should save it for our wedding night. I want it to be special.” I said, pushing him and scooting away from him.

“It’ll still be special because it’s with you.” Malambing na sabi niya.

“But it will be more special if we wait.”

“God, I’m going to fucking explode, Val.” He huffed out a breath.

“You’re not going to explode.” Natatawang sabi ko.

“I feel like I am. You broke the record, Val. This is possibly the longest time I’ve abstained from sex since I was seventeen.”

“Do you love me?” I asked in a serious tone.

“Of course, I do. You know I love you.” He quietly said.

“Then you’d wait.”

He rolled his eyes, smiling. “I’ll wait.”

“Thank you, baby. It’ll be worth it, I promise.”

“Everything is worth it with you.” He affectionately said. “I love you, Valerie Zamora.”

“I love you too, Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne.” I smiled.

He cupped my face and gave me a quick kiss on the lips. We started talking about our wedding. I told him how excited I was. Sabi ko sa kanya gusto ko sa hacienda maganap ang kasal namin, we agreed on that. He said he wanted our baby Mitsy to be there too. Napag-usapan na din namin kung saan kami maghohoneymoon. Sa lake house ng mga magulang niya. I could already picture everything in my head. I knew it would be perfect. Kahit ano pa ang kalabasan ng kasal namin basta sa kanya ako ikakasal, everything would be perfect.

We were about to leave the restaurant when we received a call from dad telling us to go to the hospital. We hurriedly drove to the hospital. We were both worried about Tristan. I quietly prayed while we were in the car. Sana walang nangyari sa kanya. Kawawa naman si Andi at ang magiging baby nila.

Axel’s POV

Jaime was standing outside Tristan’s room when we got there. Halos kasabay lang namin dumating si Wayne, Seth at Nick. I didn’t know what was going on. Nobody had a clue. My heart was beating so fast and hard. I hoped and prayed nothing bad had happened to Tristan.

Three doctors walked out of the room and behind them was Andi with a huge smile on her face. I let out a sigh of relief when I saw her smile. Nothing bad had happened to him, thank God. We all excited went inside and saw the motherfucker with his eyes finally opened.

Our friends walked up on him and welcomed him back. Valerie ran to him and gave him a hug to which Tristan responded with a wince. Agad na lumayo si Val sa kanya.

“I’m sorry.” She said, apologetic. “I just missed you so much.”

I had my hands in my pocket as I slowly walked towards his bed. Pagkatapos ng pag-aaway namin bago siya ma-comatose, hindi ko alam kung ano ang dapat kong sabihin. I didn’t want to say or how to act. Should I apologize? Should I tell him that Valerie and I were already engaged? I wasn’t really prepared for this.

“Hey.” I said. He turned his head to me and gave me a faint smile and I knew everything would be alright between us again. “You fucking scared us again.”

“Dude, you’ve used up two lives. I know you still have seven lived left but you gotta be careful next time.” Sabi ni Seth. All of us broke into laughter.

We quietly watched as Jaime walked up to his son with teary eyes, giving him a pat on the cheek before hugging him tight.

We threw a mini party for him in his room. Wayne and Seth went out and bought a cake and we had food delivered. Pagkatapos ng ilang oras, nagpaalam na sina Wayne, Seth at Nick.

We had a lot to talk about. I had a lot to explain to him. Gusto ko ako ang magpaliwanag at magsabi sa kanya ng lahat. Andi, Valerie and Jaime knew we needed to talk in private and they excused themselves out of the room.

“What do we need to talk about?” Tristan asked in his hoarse voice. He still had a hard time talking because he hadn’t used his vocal chords for months.

“Mahal ko si Valerie.” I started. “God knows how much I love her. Hinding-hindi ko siya sasaktan. You have my word, Tristan. Now that I have her I’m not going to give her up for anything.”

“What exactly are you trying to say?” He asked.

“Valerie and I are already engaged. We’re planning to get married.”

For awhile, he looked at me without any expression on his face. Then he gave me a weak punch on the arm. “Bastard! Uunahan mo pa kami ni Andi.”

A low chuckle rose from my throat. “Ibig sabihin ba niyan tanggap mo na akong maging brother-in-law.”

“I don’t have any choice, do I?” One corner of his lips lifted up in a smirk.

“No… no, you don’t.” I laughed.

Valerie’s POV

This was the day. I looked at myself in the full length mirror in front of me. A week after Tristan got out of the hospital, itinuloy na namin ang kasal. Siya na lang naman ang hinihintay namin. I was wearing a long, flowy beige dress made of silk. I almost cried when I saw myself in front of the mirror. I couldn’t believe it. I felt like this was all too good to be true. Para akong nakalutang sa ulap. In just a few hours, I’d be Mrs. Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne.

“Here comes the bride, all dress in beige.” Amy sang as she put on the veil over my head.

“Am I dreaming?” I asked, teary eyed.

“No, you’re not.” Sabi naman ni Venus. “You’re so beautiful.”

“Don’t cry, you’ll ruin your mascara.” Trina reminded, wiping the tears in the corner of my eyes.

“I’m just so happy.” I said in a broken voice.

“I know! We’re all happy for you too.” Trina smiled.

“Now smile like the princess you are.” Said Amy.

“Suotin mo yung lingerie na ibinigay ko sa’yo mamayang gabi. Make him go crazy for you.” Sabi ni Trina. The four of us giggled.

“Okay girls! Let’s take a selfie with the bride.” Venus held out her phone in front of us and started taking pictures.

As we were taking photos, Dad peeked into my room. I smiled when I saw him and I ran towards him, giving him a big hug. He hugged me back lovingly and stroked my hair.

“You look exactly like my Rebecca.” He said as he pulled from the hug and looked at me. Rebecca was my mother. She got sick and died when I was just little but I still had faint memories of her. I remembered playing dolls with her, I remembered falling asleep to her sweet lullabies, I remembered her putting a tiara over my head and calling me her princess. My eyes watered at the memory of her. I wished she was looking down from heaven right now. Sana kahit wala siya dito, nakikita niya ang mga nangyayari. I wished she could see me walk down the aisle and marry the man I love.

I forced a smile as tears blurred my vision. “I love you, daddy.”

“I love you too, sweetheart.” He said.

We were called out by the organizer. Everything was ready. The wedding was held in the vast garden of our hacienda. We wanted our wedding to be solemn and intimate, we only invited the people who were really close to us.

I saw Mitsy standing in front of the door when I got out and next to him was a man dressed in a coachman’s uniform. I chuckled to myself, I knew this was Axel’s idea. The man held out his hand and he guided me up to sit on Mitsy’s back. I carefully sat on Mitsy with my feet dangling to one side. The coachman pulled Mitsy’s bridle and guided her to the garden. I was enjoying the warmth of the sun and the cool breeze of air on my skin. The sound of the rythmical hitting of the shoehorse calmed me as my heart started beating faster and faster as we get near the garden.

All the guests turned their heads to me and their eyes sparkled in amusement when they saw me. At the end of the red carpet stood my groom, with his hands in front of him as he patiently waited for me.

The violin man started playing Canon in D. The coachman helped me down Mitsy. Dad stood next to me and I wrapped my arms around his. We slowly started walking down the aisle until we got to the end of it, where Axel was standing. We stopped in front of him. Dad gave me one last hug as his little girl before I become Axel’s wife.

“She’s your problem now.” Dad said as he handed me to Axel.

“Dad naman.” I smiled through my tears.

“I’m just joking. I love you, princess.” He said as his eyes began to water.

“I love you too, daddy.” I said before I faced my groom.

“You’re beautiful.” He whispered, giving me a kiss on the forehead.

“You’re not bad yourself.” I giggled.

We walked to the altar and the ceremony began. We stood hand in hand as the priests spoke. I could feel Axel occassionally squeezing my hand and I would turn my head to him and smile. Once we started saying our vows, it was as if everyone and everything around us disappeared and it was only just the two of us. It was so magical.

He took a deep breath and looked into my eyes. “Valerie Zamora, I love you. I’ve loved you since the first time I laid my eyes on you. Someone like you comes along once in a lifetime and I never thought you’d come. Before you I never believed in soulmates, I always believed if it were true I would’ve found mine before. You know I’ve made a bad choice before you came into my life and I didn’t know that it was you I was waiting for. I promise to try to be a better man, one worthy of your love, one you will always be proud to call yours. I know you love me unconditionally but you make me want to be better and more loving than I have with anyone else before. I promise to cry every tear that should be yours, shoulder any burden, ride out any storm because I never want you to feel any pain again that might steal the twinkle from your beautiful eyes or the sweet smile on your face. I promise that this will be forever. We’ll be together until our last breath. We’ll plan our future of lazy days and passionate nights. Holidays in the sun and Christmas times full of contentment and family. I want to be the person who makes your days complete as you do to mine. I would spend my last breath telling you how beautiful you are and how much I love you. I’d remind you of all the things that made me fall so completely in love with you so when you could no longer hear it from me you’d never forget.”

I was sobbing by the time he finished his vow.He slipped the ring on my finger and he wiped the tears off my cheeks.

I collected myself before I started mine. “Naalala ko ang sinabi sa akin ni dad noon. Hindi mo pwedeng piliin kung kanino ka mahuhulog at kung kailan o kung paano. I felt so stupid when I realized that I was already falling in love with you. I thought I fell in love with the wrong man, in the wrong place at the wrong moment. Even though I was scared and confused, I trusted my heart. It kept pulling me to you because my heart knew I was meant for you. Now I see the bigger picture, that you’re part of the bigger plan God has for me. I didn’t know that you were meant to be my husband, the father of my future children, the man I’m going to spend the rest of my life with. My heart is yours forever, my dreams revolve around you and the key to my happiness is in your hand so please be gentle with it. Consider my heart to be your shelter and my arms to be your home. I love you, Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne.”

I took the ring and slipped it on his finger

“I now pronounce you man and wife. You may now kiss the bride.” The priest said.

He wrapped his arms around my waist and pulled me into him. Axel gave a long, hard kiss and the guests stood from their seats and started clapping. He is now my husband and I could not ask for more.

I was going to stepped into the house when Axel stopped me. I shrieked as he lifted me up and carried me. I wrapped my arms around his neck and we started kissing while he made his way up the stairs. He stopped in front of the door to the master’s bedroom. I pulled my lips away from him and turned the doorknob. He walked in and laid me down the bed.

Dumagan siya sa akin. He smiled playfully. “Four whole months of torture, Valerie. You’ll pay for it. Tonight I’m going to murder your pussy.”  

I chuckled. “Oh you…” Hinawi ko ang ilang hibla ng buhok na nasa mukha niya. And then I remembered something. “I’ve stopped taking the pills.”

“You don’t those pills. We’re already married. Don’t you want a baby?” He asked.

“Of course I do.” I smiled.

“Good. Then we better start making one. Gustong gusto na ni Charlotte at Augusto magkaroon ng apo.”

He crashed his lips into mine and I kissed him back with equal intensity. Our tongues swirled together. Our bodies were hungry for each other. Our hands were eagerly undressing each other and groping  each other’s bodies. He pulled down my dress to my stomach and his hand slid to my breast. His palm encircled it and his finger found my nipple. I moaned into his mouth when he pinched my nipple between his two fingers, twirling it and playing with it. It felt like a long time since I had felt this kind of intense pleasure.

Surge of desire traveled throughout my body. I knew all those waiting was worth it. Somehow, it felt so special and different because we were doing this as a married couple. Even though we had done everything two people could possibly do together, this just seemed more special. My heartbeat was escalating and my nerves were soaring. I broke my mouth away from his and tried to catch my breath.

His lips trailed down my jaw, giving me small kisses down my neck and to my collarbone. He squeezed my breast as hard as he could and lowered his mouth down to my breast. He sucked it and bit it, making it hard. He did the same thing to my other breats before lifting my dress up and pulling my panties down.

He knelt, his face lowering between my legs. I shivered when I felt him touch my flesh. It felt like such a long, long time… and my body was excited and so ready for him. He slid his finger up and down my cleft.

“You’re beautiful, Val.” He whispered and pushed two fingers in. I could feel him stretching me to the point of discomfort but not to the point of pain. “You are so unbelievably tight.” He slowly started moving it in and out of me. He stroked me, touching every inch, circling his finger.  I moaned and squirmed in aching pleasure.

I let out a whine when he pulled his fingers. I could feel the emptiness inside me. He sucked on his fingers and smile. “Just as delicious.”

I bit my bottom lip. 

“I can’t take it anymore. I need to be inside you.” He said in a rough voice. He opened my legs wider, positioning himself between them. 

“Can you feel how hard I am for you?” He asked, staring intensely at me as he pressed his hardness on my pussy.

“I want to feel all of it.” I breathlessly said.

He took my face between his hands and kissed me with all the pent up emotion in his vein as he slowly slid inside me.  I began panting against his mouth in seconds. He lifted my bottom up with his hands and he pushed all his length inside me with one sudden thrust. He gave me a second to adjust before he moved. I could feel my inside squeezing his length as he thrusted in and out.

He dipped his head down my breast and sucked on it. Iniliyad ko ang katawan ko sa kanya. Giving it all to him. I just couldn’t get enough of him. I pushed down until we were shifted and now I was on top of him, straddling him. I pinned his hands over his head and gave him a sinful smile.

He smiled back at me with a devious glimmer in his eyes. “Fuck baby, I love your wild side.” 

I started moving up and down on top of him and everytime he meets my thrust with a greedy hunger for more. He held me by my waist and started moving my me faster and harder up and down his shaft. He repeated the movement until we both came together. I collapsed next to him and he pulled me to his side.

We were quiet for a moment as we tried to catch our breaths. Half of the ceiling we were under was made of glass. The light of the moon shone through the glass ceiling. I felt calm and content and so was the world around me. 

I felt his hand snaked over my stomach. “My baby’s going to be in there someday.” He whispered.

I looked up at him and smiled. Yes, and I hope that someday won’t be too long.

Chapter Fifty - Final Chapter

Valerie’s POV

I was already eight months heavy with child. Two months after our wedding, we found out I was already pregnant. The reaction on Axel’s face the moment I told him the good news was priceless. He cried. Atticus Xavier Enrique Lavigne actually cried when he found out I was carrying his child.

Right away, he sold his condo unit. He said condominiums weren’t a good place to raise a child, it would be unsafe and inconvenient for a family. He bought a huge four bedroom house in one of the most secured and exclusive villages. I was happy with our new home. It had a huge garden, kaya habang nagbubuntis ako I did a little gardening. The flowers I planted were blooming beautifully in it.

He was nothing short of a caring husband to me. He showered me with all the love and attention I needed. Especially when I was going through a very hormonal phase during my pregnancy. Wala akong hiniling na hindi niya ibinigay. When I wanted mint chocolate chip ice cream at two in the morning, he’d get out of bed and look for one.

This pregnancy had been really hard. I always get emotional but Axel was there to comfort me. I was always moody but he was very patient with me. Whenever I get insecure, he assures me that I was the most beautiful woman for him, he’ll tell me the most rational explanations why I should not be insecure and tell me all the good personalities and physical attributes I had.

Pregnancy wasn’t as enjoyable as I thought it would be but I was glad Axel was with me all through it.

“Careful.” Axel held my hand as I slid into the pool. He pulled me to him and held me by the waist with my back against his chest. He wrapped his hands protectively around my huge stomach. I felt the baby give a hard kick. It probably felt the change of temperature because of the water. This little thing inside me gets more and more active each day. It just wouldn’t stop moving. Minsan magigising ako madaling araw dahil sa tadyak niya.

Axel let out a chuckle when he felt it on his hand. “There’s my baby again.”

“This thing in my stomach is becoming more restless everyday. It’s kicking me every five minutes.” I complained.

“It’s probably getting crowded in their and our baby wants to get out.” He said as he rubbed my tummy.

“I can’t wait to give birth to this child. I’m desperate to get rid of this belly. Look at me! I’m like a fat bear.” I pouted.

“You’re a beautiful fat bear.” He whispered to my ear.

“Oh so you agree?” I rolled my eyes at him.

“No, that’s not what I meant.” Axel quickly answered.

“Ewan ko sa’yo!” Kumawala ako sa mga bisig niya. He tried to pull me back but I pushed him away.

“Come on, Val. What I mean is that you’re beautiful even with your huge pregnant belly. I don’t mind it, not at all.” He explained.

But me, being the moody and dramatic pregnant woman I was, got out of the pool and walked away. He sighed and followed me inside the house.

“You are such a moody pregnant brat.” He said when he caught me by my waist.

“Ikaw kaya sa posisyon ko. Can you imagine carrying a five pound baby inside you twenty-four seven and your hormones and body are all going crazy? And then you have your husband telling you that you look like a fat bear.” I pouted.

“I did not say you look like a fat bear.” Dahan-dahan niya akong hinatak paupo sa couch. He pulled me down to sit on his lap.

“Yes you did!”

“You said you look like a fat bear and I told you that you’re a beautiful fat bear. I was trying to compliment you.” He sighed.

“I’m not flattered.” Sumimangot ako.

“I guess what I really want to say is that you’re beautiful. You’ll always be beautiful to me, baby. Always remember that.” He looked at me intently and with full of sincerity in his eyes.

A smile slowly spread across my lips and I wrapped my arms around his neck. “Really?”

“Really.” He smiled back at me and kissed me on the lips. “I love you.”

“I love you too.” I responded, rubbing my nose against his.

I felt lucky for having him an understanding, patient and loving husband. How could I be more blessed than I was now? I had everything I had ever hoped and dreamt about… everything and so much more.

Axel’s POV

Valerie was in the bathroom and I was watching tv in our bedroom. The door to the bathroom was open. I tell her to always leave it open when she uses it. Para alam ko kung ano ang nangyayari sa kanya kahit nasa loob siya ng banyo. She might trip or fall down and I wouldn’t know.

The last time I checked on her, she was soaking in the tub while reading a book. She had been complaining about the pain in her back since this afternoon. Kanina ko pa siya inaaya magpunta sa doktor pero ayaw niya. She said it wasn’t really that painful, I told her that if doesn’t get better by tomorrow we’d see her doctor. She had been complaining about it since the second trimester of her pregnancy, the doctor would always tell us that it was normal and we had nothing to worry about. The backpain was just from the weight of the baby in her stomach.

“Axel…” I heard her call me.

I jumped out of bed and ran into the bathroom. “What? Is something wrong?”

“I think the baby wants to get out… NOW!”

“What?!” Panic quickly rose into me. I carefully guided her out the tub and wrapped a robe around her body. “Are you okay? How are you feeling?”

“It… it hurts.” She groaned. “My stomach hurts. Oh my god!”

As we were heading towards the bathroom door, a rush of water began to flow down between her legs. Fuck! Her water broke! I swallowed, forcing myself to remain calm.

“Axel…” She winced, gripping my arm tightly. “I can’t… walk… masakit talaga…”

“It’s going to be alright, I promise.” I gently said before lifting her up and carrying her to our bedroom. I laid her down the bed and sat on the edge of it, next to her.

“Axel!” She screamed. “Get this thing out of me! It’s breaking me from the inside!”

“Calm down, okay?” I said even though I was starting panic too. It was as if my mind had completely gone blank. I thought I would be prepared when the time comes but I guess I wasn’t. “Take a deep breath. Remember how we did it in Lamaze class?” Good thing I was always with her when she was taking Lamaze class. I never missed a single day of it. Kahit paano may alam ako.

She started taking deep, long breaths, she held in the air for a few seconds before breathing it out just like how she was taught. I grabbed my phone and dialed the hospital’s number to call an ambulance. I told them to get here as soon as possible.

“Axeeel!” She screamed again and I almost dropped my phone.

“What? What’s wrong? Baby, you have to calm down. It’s going to be alright, you’ll be alright and the baby’s going to fine.” I gently said. I was telling it to her but it seemed like I was telling it to myself more.

“Oh my god! I could feel the baby…” She said through labored breath. She was already sweating and panting.

I pulled her robe open and pulled her legs apart. I felt like energy had been drained out of me when I saw the crown of the baby’s head. I had absolutely no clue on what to do. I didn’t know how to get it out.

“Please, please… get it out. Masakit na talaga.” She begged, tears flowing down her voice.

“Oh, baby.” I cupped her face and kissed her tears away. I felt helpless. I couldn’t just sit here and wait for the ambulance to get here. Hindi ko na din naman siya madadala sa ospital dahil hindi niya na daw kaya. The hospital was at least thirty minutes away from us. The baby wanted to get out and I needed to do something. Baka kung mapaano ang anak ko at si Valerie kung wala akong gagawin.

I tried to remember everything they taught us in Lamaze class. The breathing technique, the movement and the position. I decided to take matters into my own hands. I called her OB-GYN, I told her that the baby was ready to come out and I needed her to assist me over the phone. I put the phone on loudspeaker.

“I can already see the top of the baby’s head.” I told the doctor.

“What? That’s dangerous. The baby could suffocate if it stays in the birth canal for too long. You need to make your wife push the baby out. We’ll come right there as soon as we can.” She said. My heart pounded like mad and my blood rushed through myveins. I didn’t want anything to happen to my child or to my wife. Fear took over me but I had to remain calm. Kailangan kong lakasan ang loob ko. I would do everything in my power to get her and the baby through this.

I held Valerie’s hand and looked her into her eyes. “Did you hear that? The doctor said you have to push the baby out.”

She let out a loud groan. Her hand squeezed mine as she tried to push. Her face turned red and tears flowed down her cheeks.. God, I wished I could something more than holding her hand. I felt faint, it was if I could feel her pain too.

“Take a deep breath, baby.” I calmly said. She relaxed, laying her head down the bed. She took in five deep breaths before giving another push.

She groaned and grunted loudly. After awhile, she stopped pushing again to catch her breath. “It’s hurting really bad. I feel like it’s tearing me apart.” She cried.

“I’m sorry, baby.” I said, kissing her hand. “Konting tiis na lang. You’ve got to keep pushing.”

She pushed again and I looked in between legs. Blood oozed out around the tight circle of her skin as it opened up. The head of the baby slowly came out.

“Konti na lang. Take a deep breath and push out.” I told Valerie. My eyes started to water. She pushed again and I supported the baby’s head with my hand. The head was already out and tears fell from my eyes when I saw my child’s face. The circle of blooded skin settled around the baby’s neck.

“Val, our baby’s almost out. You have to push harder.” I said.

She gave one last, hard push and I pulled the rest of the baby’s body out. I carefully carried my child into my arms. Kinuha ko ang kumot mula sa kama at pinunasan ang dugo sa mukha nito. Valerie’s body limped tiredly against the bed. The baby cried and I started to cry too. She felt so fragile and soft. There was not a single word in any language I know that could describe how I was feeling as I held my baby in my arms. I didn’t have the right words to tell how perfect it was I was in complete bliss, a state of perfect tranquility and happiness.

“It’s a girl.” I smiled with tears in my eyes. I instantly fell in love with her. She was pink and tiny and beautiful. “Hi, baby. I’m your daddy.” Mahinang sabi ko habang pumapatak ang luha sa mga mata ko.

I looked at Valerie. She was still awake, looking at me with hooded eyes. Inilapit ko sa kanya ang anak namin. I laid our crying daughter on her chest. She looked at her with tears in her eyes before looking up at me. I tucked the loose strands of her hair behind her ear and gave her a kiss on the forehead.

“Thank you, Val. Thank you for giving me a beautiful daughter. I love you and our baby.” I whispered against her skin.

My daughter’s mouth found its way to her nipple and latched on it hungrily. We both fell silent as we watched our baby in awe. Our beautiful baby was worth the pain.

“Anais Rebecca.” Valerie said, out of the blue. “I want to name her Anais Rebecca.” She got the Rebecca from her mother. She always tells me that if our baby turns out to be a girl, she would name it after her late mother.

“It’s beautiful, the name fits her perfectly.” I smiled.

Anais grew up to be as beautiful as Valerie. She had my dark eyes, her mother’s straight and slightly upturned nose, and pouty lips. She was as bratty as her mother but also as lovable as her too. Smart and clever but cunning. She had a natural charm and a personality that you just have to love.

Valerie was a great mother to our daughter. Nothing had changed since the day we got married. If anything I love her even more than I did before, if that was even possible. And after all those year, the passion between us never faded or subsided.

Oh God, how I love this woman. I thought to myself as I breathed into her hair. I couldn’t imagine a life without her and our daughter.

I began giving her small kisses on the hair and my lips trailed down to the side of her head, her cheeks and her jaw. She moaned, half-asleep. I pulled her closer to me and grinded my morning wood on my sleeping wife’s ass.

“Axel…” She moaned.

My lips went down to her neck and my hands went up to her breasts. I felt her roundness and stroked her nipples with my thumb through her satin nighties.

“Mmm…” She whimpered.

“You like that?” I asked huskily.

“Yeah…” She breathed out.

“What do you want?” My lips lifted in devious smile.

“Your cock.” She answered.

“Where do you want it?”

“Inside me.”

“Then what?” I pinched both her nipples with my fingers.

“Then I want you to fuck me.” She groaned.

“How do you want me to fuck you?”

“You’re teasing me.” She muttered.

A small chuckle escaped my throat. One of my hands went down to her stomach and down to her…

“Mommy! Daddy!” Anais ran into our room and jumped over the bed. Our little ball of energy bounced up and down the bed like she was jumping on a trampoline.

Valerie and I quickly sat up. I took the pillow beside me and covered my hardness with it. I groaned quietly. Great! I just got cock blocked by my own daughter before I could make a move on her mother.

“Hi, good morning, sweetheart.” Valerie grabbed her silk robe and slipped it on.

“Good morning. What are you doing here, sweety?” I asked.

“Sabi mo kahapon we’ll go fishing today.” She stopped jumping and sat in between me and Valerie.

“Yeah, I did.”

“Then you need to get up. I’ve been waiting for you to wake up for like a hundred hours!”

I looked at the clock on the side table and the clock says it was already nine twenty in the morning. I took a one week leave from the office so I could spend time with the two beautiful girls in my life. The family tradition went on, every summer we go to our lake house just like how me and my parents did when I was little. This time it was with my wife and my daughter.

“I’m sorry, sweety, we overslept.” Sabi ni Valerie.

“Why don’t you wait for us outside? We’ll just take a shower so we could go fishing.” I said.

“Make it quick, okay?” She bossily said. “Kanina ko pa kayo hinihintay.”

I laughed. “I’m sorry, ma’am. It will be really, really quick. I promise. Now, give daddy a morning kiss.”

She leaned over to me and gave me a peck on the cheek.

“What about me?” Valerie pouted. She gave her mother a kiss too before jumping out of the bed and running out of the room. We both looked at each other and shook our heads with smiles on our faces. We headed to the bathroom and there we continued what we had started.

The sun was up and bright. Anais was sitting on my shoulders with her head resting on top of mine and Valerie was walking beside me in her two piece bikini. She maintained a gorgeous body even after giving birth to this mini her sitting on my shoulders. We were walking on the dock, heading towards the motorboat that was parked at the end of it.

“Daddy?” Anais said.

“Yeah?”

“Will we catch a lot of fishies?” She asked.

“We’ll try.” I answered.

“Big ones?” She excitedly asked.

“If we’re lucky.”

“Mommy can catch big fishies, right mommy?”

“Yeah, I’m a better fisher than your dad.” She smiled confidently.

“You just got lucky.” I arched a brow at her.

“Two years in a row, Axel. Admit it, I’m better at fishing than you.” Her lips lifted in a smirk. Every year when we go out fishing, we’d have a competition over who caught the biggest fish. For the past two years, she’d been winning.

“Yeah, and mommy’s a better horse rider too.” Sabi ni Anais.

“Well, I can’t argue with that sweetheart. That’s her field.” I smiled. “She is good… and not just with horses.”

“Axel!” Valerie laughed, playfully hitting me on the arm.

We got on the motorboat and Valerie slipped a life jacket on Anais. I drove the motorboat while they sat at the back, chatting and enjoying the sun and the view. My baby sure was growing up too fast. It was as if it was only yesterday when I first held her in my arms. I could still remember how soft she felt, how warm she was, how loud she cried. Now my baby girl was almost four years old. Before I know it she’d be a beautiful young lady with a lot of young boys drooling at her feet. They’d have to go through me first and I would never let anyone of them touch even the tip of her finger. I always tell Anais that she wasn’t allowed to love any other guys but me. No crushes or likes on any guys whatsoever. Mabuting maaga pa lang, alam niya na.

I stopped the boat in the middle of the lake and took out the fishing rods. I gave one to Valerie and we sat on the edge of the boat and started fishing.

“Mommy, daddy, bakit kayo nagplay without me last night?” Anais asked, as she sat on my lap.

“Played what?” Valerie asked.

“Yaya said you were playing last night! I heard you two in your room! I even hear mommy shouting ‘harder Axel’.” Anais frowned.

Nagkatinginan kami ni Valerie, her eyes wide open in pure shock and embarrassment. I had to bite my tongue to keep myself from laughing.

“Mommy is loud, isn’t she?” Natatawang sabi ko.

“Yeah…” Anais nodded her head.

“Oh my god, Axel. Stop it!” Pinandilat niya ako ng mata.

I burst into laughter and Valerie’s face crumpled in annoyance.

“What’s funny?” Takang tanong ni Anais.

“Nothing, sweety.” I answered, still chuckling.

“Don’t listen to your daddy.” She said to Anais.

The only thing better than having her as my wife was our daughter having her as her mommy.

I wrapped my arm on the small of Valerie’s back and pulled her closer to me. I kissed her on the lips. The feel of her skin and to the taste of her lips on mine, everything about her reminds me why I was so in love with her. She was my one true love, my heart’s desire and my most beautiful woman I had ever been given the priviledge to love and spend the rest of my life with.

Epilogue

Sigurado akong pamilyar na pamilyar na kayo sa scene na ito. Haha. Mula kay Cassie at Phoenix, kay Tristan at Andi, at ngayon naman kay Axel at Valerie. Isa na naman istory ang natapos ko. Salamat po sa patuloy niyong pagsubaybay sa mga kwento ko kahit minsan mabagal ang update.

Three down, two more to go. Dalawa na lang ang binata ko, si Wayne at Seth. Sana patuloy pa rin ang pagsubaybay niyo sa story nila. I really enjoy writing for you guys and to hear you are enjoying reading them as much as I did writing them is an amazing feeling. Thank you so much.

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Valerie’s POV

I just finished setting the food on the picnic table. I stood there, admiring the beautiful scenery and the gorgeous day. Sunshine streamed down through trees and hit the lake causing diamond like sparkles to scatter across the surface.

I saw Tristan getting out of the water and lifting his son, my nephew, Yvo, in one arm and wrapping his other arm around Andi’s shoulder. Andi was already pregnant with their second child and her pregnant belly was starting to get big. I watched as Tristan put him down and he ran to play with the kids.

We were having a picnic with Axel’s friends and their wives. Naging malapit na din ako sa mga kaibigan ni Axel at sa mga asawa nila. I became friends with them. Sa kanila ako nagtatanong kung may kailangan akong malaman sa pagiging mother. Cassie was the most experienced when it comes to being a mother. She and Phoenix had already had four kids, ang isa nga sa anak nila binata na. Si Miggy, a handsome young man with golden hair and brown eyes. Even at such a young age, he already had girls chasing after him.

A pair of arms wrapped around me from behind and held me tight. I didn’t have to look at him to know that it was Axel. I knew him just by touch.

I wrinkled my nose. “Amoy barbecue ka.” I told him.

“The food’s ready. Where’s Anais?” He asked.

“She’s playing tag with the kids.” I answered and sighed. “Your daughter is such a headache. I told her to put on her slippers pero ayaw makinig sa akin. She threw it and ran barefoot.”

“Ah, ngayon anak ko lang siya?” He chuckled. “She was your daughter when she had perfect scores on her exams.”

“Kasi sa’yo nagmana yan ng katigasan ng ulo.” I rolled my eyes. I turned to face him and wrapped my arms around his neck. “She’s becoming more and more like you everyday.”

“Me? You’re dad told me Anais was exactly like you when you were little.” I smirked.

“Daddy! Daddy!” Pareho kaming napalingon ng marinig ang boses ni Anais. She was running towards us, crying. Bumitaw mula sa akin si Axel and he lifted his crying daughter up.

“What’s wrong, sweetheart?” He asked.

“Coco pushed me!” Humihikbing at nakalabing sabi niya. I rubbed her back to calm her down. Coco was one of Phoenix and Cassie’s twins.

Then I saw Coco and Yvo came running towards us. They stopped in front of us.

“Coco didn’t mean to hurt her. It was an accident.” Yvo explained, looking up to us. The little boy was the peacemaker among them. “Nagulat lang si Coco when she touched his hair.”

Anais had a deep obsession with the twin’s blonde hair, especially Coco’s. She was fascinated by it. She loved touching it, Audrey doesn’t really mind but Coco hated being touched.

“Coco, what did you do?” Lumapit sa amin si Cassie.

“He pushed me!” Sumbong ni Anais kay Cassie.

“It’s alright. It was just an accident.” Sabi ko. Naniniwala naman ako sa sinabi ni Yvo. May pagka-pasaway ang batang iyon but he would never intentionally hurt any of his friends. He’s a good kid, a little rebelious and strong-willed but a good kid.

Cassie put her hands on his hips and narrowed her eyes on Coco. “I told you to place nice, didn’t I? What do you have to say to Anais?”

Coco said ‘I’m sorry’ in sign language. Cassie also apologized to us.

“Don’t worry about it. You boys go ahead and play.” Sabi ni Axel. Tumakbo palayo ang dalawa at bumalik si Cassie kay Phoenix na hawak hawak ang newborn baby girl nila.

Dinala ni Axel si Anais sa mesa at inupo sa ibabaw nito.

“Saan ang masakit?” Axel gently asked, sitting right in front of Anais. Umupo ako sa tabi ng mag-ama.

“Here.” She brought her hands to her knees. “And here.” And touched her elbow. “They hurt so bad.” She said with her paawa face. It wasn’t really that bad, she didn’t even have a scratch. She was just at that age where any little thing was a big deal to her. She tends to overdramatize everything. I guessed Axel and dad were both right, sa akin nga nagmana ang anak ko.

Pinagpag ni Axel ang konting dumi sa hita niya.

“Do I have a boo boo, daddy?” She asked.

“No, you don’t. You’re doing good.” Axel answered.

“See wala naman pala. Stop crying na, sweety.” I smiled at her, pushing back some of the hair that was covering her face and kissing her on her forehead.

“Can you put band-aid on me?” She asked.

“Why? You don’t have any boo-boos.” Sabi ni Axel.

“But I want a band-aid, the pink one.” She said.

“Okay, we’ll get you a band-aid after we eat.” Sabi ko na lang.

“Mommy?”

“Yeah?”

“When will I have a baby brother?” She asked. “Yvo’s going to have one, he told me it’s in aunt Andi’s belly that’s why it’s so huge and they’re going to name him Thor.”

“Well…” I bit my lower lip. “It’s not easy to make a baby, Anais.” Axel and I had thought about having another baby but we decided to wait until Anais grows up so we could focus more on her. Plus I was still traumatized by my last birth experience.

“How do you make a baby?” She asked.

“You’ll know when you’re old enough.” I answered.

“How old?” Her brows crinkled.

“Forty.” Sagot ni Axel.

“But I’m already four.” She said in a high-pitched tone.

“That’s right. You still have thirty-six more years to go.” Axel squeezed her tiny nose.

I chuckled, shaking my head. Axel’s so overprotective with our little girl. Ngayon pa lang nakikita ko na kung ano ang mangyayari kapag nagdalaga na ang anak namin. He would chase away all his suitors or any guy who’d come close to her. He tells our daughter that she could only love one man, him. He kept reminding it to her, almost to the point of brainwashing.

He’d gone from a wild playboy to a domesticated father. He was scared that someone would do to our daughter what he had done to other women in the past.

“Meron ka naman sister. Si Mitsy.” I smiled.

“Mitsy’s a horsey.” She laughed.

“Yeah, but she’s our first baby.” Axel chuckled.

Natawa din ako sa sinabi ni Axel. He pulled me to him, I wrapped my arms around his waist and snuggled to his side. I couldn’t be any happier than I am now with my husband and my daughter by my side.

“I love you.” Axel whispered.

“I know.” I sighed.

“You know?” Sumimangot siya.

“Yeah.” I absently said.

“Yeah?” He said sounding amused. “You love me too and you know it!”

“Okay, okay, I love you too.” I giggled.

A content smile lit up his face, he leaned in to me and kissed me.

Special Chapter: Unfaithful 1

Axel’s POV

“Hurry up, Anais! Malalate na tayo ng Daddy mo.” Valerie shouted as she stood on the foot of the stairway, waiting for our daughter to come down. This was our typical morning. Our daughter takes as much time as her mother to get ready.

“I’m coming!” I heard her say as she hopped down the stairs wearing her school uniform and her pink backpack.

“Bakit ba umakyat ka pa ulit?” Valerie asked.

“I went to my room to get my Dolly! I’m bringing her for show and tell.” She answered.

Valerie held her hand and walked towards the door. Nakatayo lang ako sa pinto at hinihintay ang mag-ina ko. Anais was now seven years old and she was beggining to morph into her mother. She was like a little version of Valerie. These two girls, they drive me crazy most of the time but I love them with all my heart.

“Anais, eat your apple for lunch. Tinignan ko yung lunch box mo kahapon, you didn’t eat your banana. You have to eat your fruits too, okay?” Sabi ni Valerie habang naglalakad kami papunta sa kotse.

“I couldn’t eat anymore because I was so full.” She answered.

“Kahit konti lang. Sa susunod kapag nagtira ka ng pagkain. I’m going to make you eat brocolli and carrots for dinner.” Valerie opened the back door of the car and buckled her up.

“NOOO! I don’t want brocolli and carrots!” She groaned.

“That’s why you have to eat the fruits I prepare for you.” Sabi ni Valerie bago isara ang pinto.

“Don’t be too harsh on her. She’s a kid.” I chuckled, holding her by the waist.

“Ano’ng harsh? Hon, pinakakain ko lang siya ng fruits niya. Kaya lumalaking pasaway yang anak mo kasi kinukunsinti mo. Lahat ng gusto niya sinusunod mo. You’re spoiling him, Axel.” She rolled her eyes at me.

“Of course, she’s our little princess. I fully intend on spoiling her with love. Just like how I spoil you.” I softly said, kissing the side of her head.

“O sige na.” There was a hint of smile on her lips. “Naghihintay na si Anais sa loob ng kotse at baka malate tayo pare-pareho.”

I slowly let go of her and opened the side of her door. She slipped in and got into the driver’s side. I started the car and drove off.

“Daddy?” Her tiny voice called me as she played with her rag doll on the backseat.

“Yes, sweetheart?” I said, glancing at her through the rearview mirror.

“Can you buy me a pony?”

“A pony? Why do you want a pony? We have Mitsy.” I chuckled.

“Yeah, but I want a little pony for me. I want it in our backyard so I don’t have to go Grampy’s to ride a horse.” She said.

“We can’t put it in our backyard. The pony will need a lot of space to roam. We need to have a land as big as Grampy’s.” I answered.

“Well, why don’t we go buy a huge land and then a pony?” Her brows crinkled.

“That’s not how it works.” I said in a low laugh. “We live in a city, sweetheart. We’re not going to find a land as big as your Grampy’s here.”

“We’ll go to Grampy’s next week. We’ll spend our break at the hacienda.” Sabi ni Valerie.

“Yay! I really miss the hacienda and all the horsies and the cows and the chickens and the trees. And most of all, I miss Grampy!” Natutuwang sabi ni Anais.

“I’m sure Grampy misses you, too.” Valerie said.

“I’m going to call him tonight and tell him we’re going to the hacienda next week!” She excitedly said.

I pulled up in front of her school. She leaned over to our seats and gave me a peck on the cheek. “I love you, Daddy!” And then she kissed her mother. “I love you, Mommy!”

“I love you too. Be a good girl.” Sabi ni Valerie sa anak namin.

“I love you, sweetheart. And always listen to your teacher, okay?” I reminded her.

“Oki doki!” She said.


She got out of the car and we watched as she disappeared through the school’s gate before I started the car again. Our little girl was growing up too fast. It seemed like it was only yesterday when she was crying and clinging onto us because she didn’t want us to leave her at school. If only there was a way to stop time.

“Hon, huwag mo na akong sunduin mamaya.” Valerie said.

My brows furrowed. “Why?”

“Baka kasi medyo ma late ang uwi ko. Marami kasing trabaho sa office ngayon. Ayaw ko naman maghintay ka.”

“Val, you don’t have to do this—”

“Axel, ayaw kong pagtaluhan na naman natin ito.” She sighed.

“Hindi naman ako nakikipagtalo. I’m just saying na hindi mo naman kailangan magtrabaho. Kaya ko naman kayong buhayin ni Anais. You don’t need a job.”

“Look, I know that, hon. Alam mo naman na hindi pera ang dahilan kung bakit ako nagtatrabaho. Lumalaki na si Anais at hindi na siya alagain. Ayaw ko naman na maburyo na lang sa bahay buong araw at maghintay na lang na umuwi kayong mag-ama.”

“If you want a job you can work at our company.” I said.

“Hon, we’ve already talked about this.” She gave me a look of veiled annoyance.

“Fine, if you don’t want to work for me you can put up your own business. I’ll give you a capital—”

“AXEL!” She whined. “You don’t get it, do you? For once, I want to feel a sense of accomplishment na hindi kinakailangan ang tulong mo o ng Daddy. I want to make it on my own.”

“You’ve already made it. You’ve already accomplished something. You’ve been a wonderful mother to Anais and the best wife a man could ever want.”

“I don’t want to be strictly confined to being a mother and a wife. Anais is growing up and it won’t be too long til she needs me less and less.”

“I need you more and more. Gusto ko na kayo ang unang nakikita ko ni Anais pagkauwi ko galing trabaho.” Sabi ko.

I glanced at her and saw her biting her bottom lip. “Do you feel like I’m neglecting you and Anais?”

“No, it’s not that!” I quickly answered. “You’re not neglecting us. You’re nothing short of a spectacular wife and mother.”

“Sana maintindihan mo ako, Axel. Gusto ko lang naman maging independent. Ayaw kong umasa sa’yo o kay Dad. I want to experience what it’s like to earn my own money.” She wrapped her arms around my waist and rested her chin on my shoulder. “I love you, hon.”

“I love you, too.” I exhaled deeply.

“Babawi ako sa inyo ni Anais. I promise. Sa inyong sa inyo ako sa break.” She started leaving small kisses on my jaw.

“Val, I’m driving.” I chuckled.

“Drive on, don’t mind me.” She murmured against my skin as her lips made its way down my neck. She suckled and bit gently. I tried my hardest to focus on the road ahead but it was getting harder and harder as I got harder and harder.

“Val, you bad girl.” I groaned. I felt her giggle on my neck. She slid a hand down between my thighs and started rubbing my inner thigh. “God, you’re such a tease. Touch me, hon.”

“Where do you want me to touch you?” She teasingly asked.

“Touch my cock. Get me off.” My breath became shallow.

“Say please.” Natatawang sabi niya.

“Val baby, please…” I begged.

“Good boy.” She said, leaving a peck on my cheek. She opened my trousers and slid her hand in my boxers. She wrapped her fingers around my hardening manhood and took it out. She stroked me, moving up and down the shaft with increasing urgency. The warmth of her breath against my neck and her body pressed against mine. It felt so good.

“Val baby…” I moaned.

She smiled and kissed me on the corner of my mouth before she bent down. The sensation of the tip enveloped in her hot mouth was just exquisite. Her tongue circled around me, each circle bringing a new level of sensation. She was so warm and urgent. I drew in a rasping breath, struggling to keep my focus on my driving.

Her head started bobbing up and down my length. It almost drove me crazy. Her doing this in my car while I drove added fuel to an already burning fire. I tensed my thigh muscles, resisting the urge to lift my hips and push my cock deeper into her mouth. She took me further in, moving so that I was deep inside her, pressing against the warm wetness of her tongue, her throat. Her mouth began to move faster, sucking me harder and harder, again and again, with hot-lipped urgency.

“Please, hon.” I didn’t even know what I was asking for. I knew nothing but the heat of her mouth. My breath became more rapid. I could feel myself teethering on the edge of ecstasy. I was ready to blow my load. “Jesus Christ, Valerie. I’m going to come.”

She didn’t stop. She just kept going. It took only about another stroke or two before I felt the surge of hot liquid pulsing out of me, my seed spraying into her mouth. She quickly swallowed it and lifted her head from my groin. She fixed me, tucking my shaft back into my boxers and zipping my trousers close.

“Did you enjoy it?” She asked, wiping the corners of her mouth.

“The hell I did!” I exclaimed. “That was so hot, babe. I promise, babawi ako sa’yo mamayang gabi.”

“Glad you enjoyed it. I’ll see you later, hon.” A naughty smile appeared on her lips.

My car stopped in front of her office building. I shifted to face her and looked at my hot wife. The old intimacy between us never seemed to lessen. She was the same hot, wild, and adventurous woman that I married eight years ago. She was the woman who bore and nurtured my child and carried my last name. My love for her grows more and more with each passing day.

“See you later.” She smiled. I cupped her face and leaned over, giving her a passionate kiss. She pulled away and giggled. “Baka hindi pa tayo makapasok niyan…”

“There’s a hotel a few kilometers away from here.” I winked.

“Magtigil ka nga, Atticus!” She laughed. “I need to go.”

I took her hands in mine and brought it to my lips. “I love you.”

“I love you, too.” She answered back. Binuksan niya na ang pinto ng kotse at lumabas mula doon. She waved at me before walking inside her office building.

Valerie’s POV

I splashed my face with cold water and rinsed my mouth with mouthwash. I didn’t want my colleagues to smell my husband on me. I was now working as a financial analyst at one of the major banks in the Philippines. I wanted to make use of my college degree. Although Axel would prefer I stay at home and take care of our daughter, hindi naman siya tutol sa desisyon ko noon. He let me decide for myself. Siguro noong naging busy na lang ako sa trabaho, doon niya ako kinulit na magquit na ng trabaho ko. Within just a few months of working, I got promoted. Promotions means more work and responsibility.

Kahit naman nagtatrabaho na ako, hindi ko pa rin kinakalimutan ang responsibilidad ko bilang asawa niya at ina ng anak namin. They were still my top priorities. Pero siguro sanay kasi si Axel na sa kanila lang mag-ama ang atensyon ko. He doesn’t appreciate my attention being divided. Sometimes he can be more needy than our daughter. Naisip ko din na kapag tumagal masanay naman na siya.

“Good morning, Valerie.” My boss, Fred, greeted me with a smile on his face. Fred was a good-looking guy and I think he was the same age as Axel. He was really charming and still a bachelor. Halos lahat nga ng katrabaho ko ay may gusto sa kanya.

“Good morning, Fred.” I smiled back at him.

“You’re looking beautiful today.” He complimented.

“Thanks. You’re not bad yourself.” I jokingly said.

He chuckled. “Oh, you funny woman. How was your weekend?”

“It was great. I spent it with my husband and daughter.” I answered.

“Alam mo tuwing titignan kita hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala na may anak at asawa ka na. Wala sa itsura mo.”

“Ikaw naman. Don’t flatter me too much.” I said.

“I’m just telling the truth.” Kibit-balikat na sabi niya. “Want to go out for lunch later with me?”

“I’m sorry, I can’t.” It would be inappropriate for a married woman to go out to lunch with another guy, especially her boss. Fred was a nice guy. Pero ayaw ko lang naman may isipin na iba ang mga tao. 

“Don’t worry, it’s work related.” He said as if he just read my thoughts. “Hindi ba nanghihingi ka ng two week leave? Ayaw ko naman matambakan ka ng trabaho pagbalik mo.”

I paused, thinking for a second. “Well, as long as it’s work related then sure.”

“Okay!” He smiled widely. “I’ll just get back to my work. Mamaya na lang tayo mag-usap.”

“Okay, see you around.” I said.

Iniwan niya na ako at bumalik sa office niya. Catherine, my colleague on the cubicle next to me, peeped into my cubicle. “Val, feeling ko talaga may crush sa’yo yan si sir Fred.”

“Ano ka ba? May asawa ako, alam niya naman yon. I think he’s just a really nice guy.”

“Ikaw lang ang hinahayaan niyang tawagin siyang Fred. Walang sir. Tapos ininvite ka pa niya maglunch. He’s definetely hitting on you!”

“Huwag mo naman bigyan ng malisya iyon. It’s work-related. I asked for a two week leave and he said just wants to talk to me about it.”

We went back to work and after a few hours it was already lunch time. Huminto si Fred sa cubicle ko at pinaalala sa amin na lalabas kami sa lunch. We rode his car and went to a nearby restaurant.

“So, where are you planning to go with your family on your two week leave?” He asked as we were eating.

“Plano namin na pumunta sa hacienda ng Daddy. My daughter loves that place and I really miss my Dad.” I sighed. Tristan and I with our families visit Dad on a regular basis. We stay there over the weekend at least once a month. Pero gusto ko talaga na magstay ng matagal doon at school break na naman ni Anais sa susunod na linggo kaya nagleave na din ako sa trabaho.

“How old is your daughter now?”

“She’s seven years old now. She looks more like me but she has my personality but she got her attitude from my husband.” I chuckled, shaking my head.

“I would love to meet her someday. I’m sure she’s a fine young lady.” Sabi niya.

“Why did you marry and had a kid so young?”

“I don’t think so. I got married at the right age. Masaya naman ako sa pamilya ko ngayon. Axel and Anais are my life. They’re all I’ve ever wished for and I couldn’t ask for a better or more loving family.”

“Why did we meet so late?” He was smiling pero my panghihinayang sa boses niya.

I tried to shrug it off and chuckle. “Don’t envy me. I’m sure someday you’ll find the right woman for you, too. You’re a great guy, Fred.”

“Thanks, Valerie. I want someone like you.” He sighed.

We went back to talking about my work. It was a busy season and I knew I’d be leaving a lot of work but I wanted to spend my time with my family. I knew my work would double by the time I get back from my leave. Fred suggested na mag-overtime ako ngayon at tutulungan niya ako sa trabaho ko. That sounded like a sweet deal.

He took me back to our office after having lunch. Bumalik na ako sa trabaho at nagstay ako nang umuwi na ang mga kasamahan namin. Fred called me to his office so that he could help me with my work.

“Okay lang ba talaga sa’yo? Nakakahiya naman.” I asked.

“Don’t worry. Bago ako naging financial analyst manager, ito naman ang trabaho ko.” Ngumiti siya sa akin.

“Thank you so much, Fred.”

“Sure, anything for you, Val.” He winked.

He stayed with me and helped me with my work. Halos kami na lang ang naiwan sa floor namin pero sinamahan pa rin niya ako. After a few more hours of work, we were almost done. I stretched my arms out and decided to go to the bathroom.

I walked back to Fred’s office and my eyes glanced down at his hand. He was holding my phone. I knew it was my phone because it was pink.

“I’m sorry, Val. Nangialam na ako. Someone was calling you and I answered it. Kaso na lowbatt na ang phone mo.” He said.

I bit my bottom lip. It was probably Axel. Nakalimutan ko siyang sabihan na medyo malalate ako sa pag-uwi. I didn’t even notice the time passing. Nag-aalala na siguro iyon. I asked him if he had a charger but he told me he didn’t have one. We decided to call it a night.

“Hatid na kita, Val.” He offered as we stood in the elevator.

“Huwag na. Pwede naman akong magtaxi.” I said. Axel and I usually get off from work at the same time at sinusundo niya na lang ako sa office ko. Sabi ko sa kanya kanina na huwag na akong sunduin dahil alam ko talagang medyo malalate akong umuwi. But I didn’ expect I would get home this late.

“Delikado magtaxi ng ganitong oras. Nanonood ka ba ng news?” He shook his head.

“Kaya ko naman sarili ko.” I smiled.

“Mahihirapan ka rin kumuha ng taxi at madilim na sa labas.” Pilit niya. “Please, Val, let me drop you off. Gusto ko lang masigurong safe kang nakauwi.”

“Sige na nga. Kahit nakakahiya na dahil ang dami mo nang naitulong, may point ka naman.” Natatawang sabi ko.

Bumaba kami sa parking lot at sumakay sa kotse niya. I gave him the direction to our village and after a couple of minutes of driving, he pulled up in front of our house. He got out of the car and ran to my side to open my door.

“Thank you so much, Fred.” Sabi ko sa kanya.

“You’re welcome.” He replied. “I’ll see you again tomorrow.”

“Okay. Take care and be careful on the road.” Paalala ko.

“Sure. Have a good night.” He bent down to give me a cheek to cheek kiss.

“You, too. Thanks again, Fred.”

He smiled, nodding his head before turning back to his car and getting into it. I watched as he drove off. Pinagbuksan ako ng gate ng guard na nasa labas ng bahay namin at pumasok na ako. I went into our house.

“Who was that?” I could sense the anger in Axel’s low voice when I entered our house.

“Si Fred, my boss.” I answered. Lumapit ako sa kanya at pinulupot ang mga bisig ko sa baywang niya. I gave him a peck on the jaw but his face remained stoic. “Sorry, hindi kita nasabihan na gagabihin ako sa pag-uwi. Hinatid na ako ni Fred kasi ginabi na ako sa office.”

“Siya din ba yung sumagot sa phone mo?” His brows crumpled into a sardonic arch.

“Sabi nga niya sa akin may tumawag sa phone ko. Sorry I was in the bathroom when you called. My phone died off.” I explained. “Where’s Anais? Tulog na ba siya?”

“I don’t like that guy.” His jaw clenched.

“He’s a really nice guy. Tinulungan niya nga ako sa trabaho ko.” Sabi ko.

“Ayaw kong sumasama ka sa kung sinu-sinong lalaki. I don’t want to see my wife being dropped off by other men.” He said in controlled anger.

“Hindi naman ako sumasama sa kung sinu-sinong lalaki, Axel. He’s my boss. Nagkataon lang na nandoon siya. Wala na akong makukuhang taxi ng ganitong oras—”

“You should’ve fucking called me!” I was startled when his voice raised.

“Axel, huwag mo naman akong sigawan.” I pulled away from him. “Sabi ko naman sa’yo, di ba, my phone died off!”

“Wala bang phone sa opisina niyo?”

“Ayaw ko nang istorbohin ka.”

“Bullshit!”

“Ano ba talagang gusto mong palabasin ha? Ngayon lang naman ’to nangyari ah! Do you think I’m cheating on you with my boss?!” I stared at him with disbelief.

“That didn’t came from my mouth.” His eyes narrowed at me. “Bakit ba kasi hindi ka na lang magquit sa trabaho mo.”

“Yan na naman ba tayo? I’m not going to quit my job, Axel!” I said with firm conviction.

“Bakit? I don’t understand why! I can give you everything you want! Sabihin mo lang sa akin kung anong gusto mo, ibibigay ko iyon sa’yo.”

“Hindi naman dahil doon iyon! Akala ko ba nagkakaintindihan na tayo?”

“Is it because of your boss? Is he the fucking reason why you don’t want to quit your job?”

I blinked and stared at him, dumbfounded. It took me awhile to fully take in what he just said. Umigkis ang kamay ko at dumapo sa pisngi niya. “Ganyan ba kababa ang tingin mo sa akin? You really think I would cheat on you?”

“Quit your fucking job. I want you to quit your job right now. Tawagan mo siya ngayon at sabihin mong hindi ka na papasok bukas.” Mahina pero mariin na sabi niya.

“I’m not going to do that. I don’t even want to talk to you right now.” Mangiyak-ngiyak na sabi ko. Tumalikod ako sa kanya at umakyat sa kwarto ni Anais. My daughter was already sleeping in her bed when I got there. I slipped into her bed and laid next to her. I pulled her into a hug and cried.

Ito ang unang beses na nag-away kami ng ganito mula ng ikasal kami. Ito din ang unang beses na pinaiyak niya ako sa sama ng loob. I couldn’t believe what just happened.  I couldn’t believe that he would think of me that way. 

---

Isang taon na yata mula ng matapos ang RS kaya naisipan kong magsulat ng special chapter. Three chapters siya. I hope you guys enjoyed it.

Ruthless Seduction Book

Hi guys, 

Para sa mga hindi pa nakakaalam, I’ll be self-publishing Five Guys (minus Tristan because he’s already published under Summit) real soon. I’ve decided na sa libro na lang ituloy ang special chapters and there will be 5 additional unfaithful chapters in the book. So ito yung details para sa gustong mag-avail ng book set o ng individual copy. 

Individual copy:

Price: 500php (+shipping fee)

The book set comes with:

• A special book box

-Phoenix Cordova

-Ruthless Seduction

-The Pregnant Virgin

-The Blue Book: At your Service

Size : 6 x 9

Price : 2000php (shipping fee included)

Order and payment period: January to March 2018

Ipopost ko na lang ang book cover pag meron na. If you have any further questions or kung gusto niyong maging updated add or follow me on my facebook account: https://www.facebook.com/rcmwp

FAQ and Book Cover

Here are the covers for the book I’ll be self-publishing soon.

FAQ

1. Magkano?

Individual copy: 500 (plus shipping fee)

Complete book set: 2000

The book set includes the following:

• A book box

• 4 Books (PC, RS, TPV, TBBAYS)

• Shipping fee

2. Paano kung may Phoenix Cordova book na ako?

Pwede po kayong mag-avail ng 3 books na kasama ang book box basta may proof po na may PC book na kayo.

3. Magkano ang book set pag walang PC?

I’m still not sure how I’ll price it. Follow or add niyo na lang ako sa facebook account ko para maupdate kayo: facebook.com/rcmwp

4. Bakit ganyan ang cover? Paano ko itatago yan sa parents ko?

If you need to hide it, you’re too young for it haha

I’m actually considering adding a lock for the book box. (Di pa sure yan)

5. Paano kung gusto ko ng apat na libro ng isang title lang? Meron pa rin bang book box?

No. Kailangan po kumpleto silang apat.

6. Kailan ang order at payment period?

Baka maaga akong mag accept ng orders para sa mga mag-aavail ng book set para alam ko na kung ilan book box ang ipagagawa ko. Sa December na siguro pero para lang yung sa book set. Yung mga bibili ng individual copy at ang payment, Jan-March pa rin.

7. May additional chapters ba?

Yes, lahat ng books may additional chapters.

8. Do you ship internationally?

Hindi po. Mostly because it’s time-consuming, inconvenient, and a bit pricey. Mahirap na rin baka mawala ang books at hindi makarating sa inyo. I don’t want to worry about the books getting lost or delayed.

Pwede po kayong umorder at ipaship niyo na lang sa kakilala niyo dito sa Pilipinas. :)

If you have any further questions that are not covered above, please add or follow me on my facebook acount:

facebook.com/rcmwp

Facebook name: Rain Gastelier