Seductive Rivalry

“We will be having a new small forward, as you all already know, Owen had surgery for his injury. Unfortunately, he can’t play basketball anymore.” I muttered a curse under my breath when Coach Solis confirmed it. Ang akala ko ay may pag-asa pa si Owen.

“Wala na ba talagang pag-asa si Owen, coach?” Elias asked, the tallest among us. He’s our main center.

“The doctor already said it, he can’t play anymore.” Pagkumpirma niya muli.

“Bakit kailangan ng bagong small forward? Nandito pa si Theo.” Tanong naman ni Simon. Theo is our small forward, si Owen ang palaging nasa starter lineup pero madalas rin ipasok si Theo.

“I know, Alvarez already proved himself to us, but Owen last request was for his cousin to enter the play. And luckily for us, he’s one of the best players of Duncan’s.” We gaped at what he said. Duncan is a big university basketball team in Canada.

“Really? That’s good for us then, let him join the team, coach.” Theo gave his approval. Tumingin naman saakin si coach.

“Are you okay with it, captain Herrera?” Tanong niya saakin.

“I’m okay with it, coach.” Tango ko sakaniya at ngumiti naman siya saamin.

“It’s settled then, we will meet him later. For now, you can practice without me. Kakausapin ko lang ang Dean.” Paalam niya saamin kaya nagsilabasan kami ng locker room. Agad kaming sinalubong ng malakas na tunog ng ulan na tumatama sa bubong ng gymnasium.

“Kayo na muna.” Sabi ko sakanila at umupo ako sa malapit na gym bleachers at sumunod naman ang ilan saakin habang ang iba ay nagsimulang maglaro.

“Bisitahin ulit natin mamaya si Owen, panigurado ay dismayado ang isang yun.” Elias said. Napatango-tango kami.

“Kingina kasi talaga ng Silang ’e, puro bully ang mga players.” Ani ni Simon, siya ang point guard namin. Ako naman ang shooting guard at ang team captain. Ang Silang ang school na nakalaban namin kaya nagka injury si Owen.

“Kaya nga babawian natin diba? Nakuha nga natin yung panalo last game, pero nabalian naman si Owen.” Julian said, ang power forward namin sa laro.

“Focus on the training, lalampasuhin natin ang mga iyon sa sunod na laro.” Sabi ko at tinapik naman ako ni Elias.

“Pag ganyang kalmado ka pa, halatang galit ka talaga ’e.” Asar niya saakin kaya napailing ako. Galit at nanghihinayang talaga ako sa nangyari kay Owen, siya pa naman ang pinaka close ko sa team. We’ve been friends for almost seven years already.

“Kayang-kaya naman natin ang Silang, ngayon pa ba na may bagong best player tayo?” Theo said and I was about to agree when I saw someone entered the gymnasium. Sa main gate siya pumasok, it means galing siya sa quadrangle at hindi sa hallway kung nasaan ang second gate ng gymnasium.

It’s a girl with wavy hair- wait, is that a girl? Napakurap ako nang mapansin kong basang-basang ito kahit na may suot na malaking long down jacket na mukhang water resistance.

My eyebrows twitched nang makita ko ang mukha nito. She’s pretty, her wet wavy hair is also pretty.

“Uy, sino yun? Kaninong chicks yun?” Napansin rin ata nila Julian ang babaeng pumasok at pare-pareho pa kaming nagulat nang tumingin ito saamin at lumakad papalapit.

“Sayo yan, Cap?” Biglang tanong ni Theo kaya umiling ako.

“Laki ng ngiti mo ’e, kala ko chicks mo.” Tawa niya pa at napapailing akong binatukan siya. Maya-maya ay nakalapit na saamin iyong babae at ngumiti siya bago nagtama ang mga mata namin. I was mesmerized with her eyes. It’s color is honey brown and it reminds me of those cat eyes like. Seductive and fierce.

She’s really pretty kahit na basang-basang ang mukha niya sa ulan. Mukhang magsasalita siya nang unahan siya ni Julian.

“Hi, miss. Sino ang hanap mo?” Tanong agad ni Julian na ngiting-ngiti. Nakita ko naman na tumaas ang kilay ng babae at tiningnan pa ang kabuoan niya bago mahinang natawa. Natunaw naman roon ang puso ko dahil sa ganda ng ngiti niya.

Pretty, so pretty. She has two dimples, not so thick eyebrows, pointed nose and red plump lips. She also has a fair milky complexion. Nakita ko rin ang hikaw niya sa may right side ng kilay niya.

I’m really a sucker when it comes to pretty faces.

“I’m here for the team, where’s coach Solis?” I licked my lips when I heard her soothing voice. Hindi naman iyon babaeng-babae pero kalmado at kontrolado. I also noticed her tongue piercing.

Is she a college student like us?

“For the team? Why?” Ako na ang nagtanong at muling sumulyap saakin ang mapang akit niyang mga mata.

“I’m the new small forward for the team, Sullivan Turner, you can call me Sulli. Nice to meet you all.” Lahat ata kami ay nabato sa kinauupuan nang magpakilala siya habang may naglalarong ngisi sa mga labi niya.

“H-Ha?” What she said didn’t register in my mind until it did. What? What the hell? Sullivan? He’s a guy?

Nag-init ata ang buong mukha ko at nakatinginan pa kami ng mga kasama ko bago nag sink in saamin na lalaki pala ang kausap namin.

Is he gay?!

Natakpan ko pa ang bibig ko at hindi ko alam pero binalot ng inis ang dibdib ko dahil sa rason na lalaki pala siya at tinawag ko pa siyang maganda! Buti na lang at hindi ko iyon na voice out!

“I’m a man, hindi ko pa kasi napuputol ang buhok ko, pasensya na.” Hingi niya ng paumanhin bago niya binuksan ang zipper ng suot niyang long down jacket. Lumantad saamin ang suot niyang jersey short at shirt na puti. Napalunok pa ako nang makitang maliit ang katawan niya pero halos magkasing tangkad lamang sila ni Theo at 5’9 ito. I’m a 6 footer so even tho he’s tall, his height doesn’t compare to me. Si Theo rin kasi ang pinaka maliit saamin.

Napatitig pa ako sakaniya at maputi talaga siya kahit na ang tuhod niya, pati ang mga braso niya ay pwedeng pumasa pang babae dahil wala iyong masyadong muscles. Didn’t Coach said that he’s also a basketball player? Bakit parang patpatin siya?

Mas lalo akong nainis sa isiping babaeng-babae talaga ang itsura niya. What the hell is happening? Ito ba ang makakasama namin sa team?

No way in hell.

Seductive Rivalry

M2M

This story is a man to man story.

This story contains explicit content regarding language, behaviors and sexual content.

RATED 18+

READ AT YOUR OWN RISK.

You have been warned.

I will not tolerate any hate.

Rivalry 1

Sulli’s

Nakagat ko ang kuku ko sa kamay nang makita kung gaano pa kalayo ang gymnasium mula sa kinatatayuan ko. Nasa isang pavilion ako papunta sa isang building kung nasaan ang cafeteria at malakas ang ulan kaya hindi ako makatawid. Napahangos ako nang malalim at nag decide na magpapaulan na lang.

May suot naman akong long down jacket kaya hindi mababasa ang suot kong jersey para sa practice slash tryout. Mababasa nga lang ang ulo ko dahil walang hoodie ang suot kong jacket. Hindi pa naman ako naka sapatos at sabi ni Owen ay pwede kong gamitin ang sapatos niya na nasa locker ng gymnasium.

Nag decide akong tumakbo sa quadrangle papunta sa entrance ng gymnasium. Minadali ko ang pag takbo ngunit nabasa pa rin ang mahaba kong buhok pati na ang mukha ko.

Nang makarating ako sa gymnasium ay pinagpagan ko ang suot kong jacket na water resistance. Mabilis naman na nagsituluan ang mga butil ng tubig ulan roon. I looked at the whole court at malaki ito katulad ng court namin sa Canada. Nakita ko na mga player lamang ang nandito. Some are already practicing while I saw a group of guys at the gym bleachers. Mukhang napansin rin nila ako kaya naglakad ako palapit sakanila.

Nakita ko pang nag tutudyuan sila ngunit ngumiti lang ako at nagtama ang mga mata namin ng isang player na hindi naman nakangiti pero kita sa mga mata ang tuwa. Gwapo siya, mukhang artistahin. Siya ang mapapansin mo agad sakanila dahil may kulay ang buhok niya, dirty blonde na bagay na bagay sakaniya.

“Hi, miss. Sino ang hanap mo?” Nilingon ko ang nagtanong at tumaas ang kilay ko sa sinabi niya. I looked at what I am wearing and I chuckled when I remembered that I have a long hair and a soft facial features. They probably thought I was a girl.

“I’m here for the team, where’s coach Solis?” Sagot ko sakaniya at nilibot ko pa ng tingin ang buong gymnasium pero wala iyong coach na nakausap ko na rin kaninang umaga.

“For the team? Why?” The guy with the dirty blonde hair asked.

“I’m the new small forward for the team, Sullivan Turner, you can call me Sulli. Nice to meet you all.” Pakilala ko at parang lahat naman sila ay nagulat pa sa pagpapakilala ko. They really thought I was a girl, haha.

“H-Ha?” Parang umasim naman ang mukha nung lalaking blonde habang parang nahiya ang ilan sakanila. Lihim akong napailing at nagsalita muli.

“I’m a man, hindi ko pa kasi napuputol ang buhok ko, pasensya na.” Sabi ko muli. May balak naman na talaga akong putulin ang buhok ko pero wala pa akong oras sa ngayon. I keep forgetting about it. Hinubad ko ang suot kong long down jacket para makita nila ang suot kong jersey. Baka hindi pa kasi sila naniniwala saakin.

“Oh, Mr. Turner, nandito ka na pala.” Napangiti ako nang makitang naglalakad na palapit saamin si coach Solis. Pinakilala na siya saakin ni Owen noong bumisita ito sakaniya sa hospital.

“Yes, coach. Sorry the traffic was heavy.” Sabi ko dahil dapat ay kanina pa ako rito. Tumango-tango lamang siya at humarap sa nagkumpulang mga lalaki. This is probably the team. Haraya University basketball team.

“Team, this is Mr. Turner from Canada, he’s part of the starting lineup of Duncan Team.” Pakilala niya saakin at tinanguan ko naman sila bilang pagbati. They all seem to be uneasy while looking at me. They probably think that I’m too small to be a basketball player, I get that a lot.

“Wait, he doesn’t look like a varsity player, coach. He looks like a girl, even his physiques.” The dirty blonde guy said so I didn’t need to wonder anymore why they look uneasy. Inakbayan naman ako ng coach.

“I watched Mr. Turner play and he’s even more skilled than Owen, he may not look like it, but he has the skills.” Sabi ng coach sa seryosong boses. Nakakunot-noo pa rin iyong blondeng lalaki kaya nagsalita ako.

“It’s genetics, I can’t grow a muscle. But I’m sturdy, I can prove it to all of you.” Ngiti ko sakanila lalo na doon sa blonde na lalaki dahil mukhang ito ang tutol na tutol sa katawan ko.

Hindi pa ba siya nakakakita ng patpatin na basketball player?

“Alright, a playoffs then.” Alok ng coach at tumango naman ako. They all agreed and they decided who’s gonna play with me and play with the other side.

Pumunta naman muna ako sa locker room na itinuro nila saakin para kuhain ang sapatos ni Owen. I have the keys and also the coach permission. Sinuot ko ang sapatos na nakita ko at kumuha ng pantali sa buhok sa bulsa ng dala kong jacket.

“Hey,” Habang nagtatali ng buhok ay may tumayo sa harap ko kaya inangat ko ang ulo ko. I saw the dirty blonde guy looking down at me so I smiled at him.

“Hey.” Bati ko rin bago tumayo habang inaayos ko pa rin ang buhok ko. He stared at what I am doing for a second before clearing his throat and speaking again.

“You need to win this match before you can join the team. Is that okay with you?” Sabi niya kaya napaisip naman ako habang inaalis ang hikaw ko sa kilay.

“It’s okay if you don’t have all of the starters on your side.” Sabi ko dahil baka pinili niya ang lahat ng nasa starter lineup para lang hindi ako makapasok sa team nila.

Is he really doing this just because my physique doesn’t look good? He’s something.

“Of course not, you have my point guard and center.” Sabi niya kaya tumaas ang kilay ko.

“Do you want to purposely lose?” Tanong ko. Hindi niya ba narinig na isa ako sa mga starters sa Canada? He’s giving too much of his benefit of the doubt. He’s going to lose.

“That’s cute, I can give you all of the starters but you still won’t win against me.” He said with a scoff. I chuckled. He’s so yabang. Tinitigan ko lamang siya at ganon rin siya saakin bago niya inabot ang isang kamay niya sa harap ko.

“I’m Vesper, the team captain.” My mouth formed into an ‘O’ when he introduced himself. Tinanggap ko ang kamay niya. Kaya naman pala yumayabang, he’s the captain.

“Nice to mee you, captain.” Ngiti ko sakaniya at muli nanaman siyang natulala saakin. Kanina ko pa siya napapansing natutulala na lang bigla.

May sakit ba ang captain ng Haraya?

---

“Nice!” The coach hyped me up when my defense made the shooters struggle to score. Napangiti ako at napatingin sa mga kalaro ko. My side won.

The blonde guy really live up to his arrogance, kung hindi lamang siya distracted ay baka natalo niya ang team ko. But for some reason, he keeps staggering and just staring at my face whenever I’m on his way. He’s distracted and I can’t figure out why, mukhang napansin rin iyon ng coach at ng teammates niya.

“Lol, what was that, Ves?” Lumapit sakaniya ang center na nasa team ko at tinapik siya. I heard his name is Elias.

“I know you are purposely not scoring, Herrera.” Ang coach. Napangiwi ako. Halata sa tindig ni Vesper na magaling siya maglaro at shooter talaga siya. Because even tho he’s distracted, malapit pa rin ang score namin. Three points lang ang lamang ko sakaniya.

“No, coach. I didn’t want to lose, it made me distracted. Sullivan won.” Pag-amin niya at ngumiti naman ang coach. Tumaas rin ang kilay ko. He’s honest, huh? Hindi halata sa pagiging arogante niya ang pagiging honest.

Lumapit sila saakin at nagpakilala isa-isa, indicating that I am officially joining their team. Nang iyong Vesper na ulit ang magpapakilala saakin ay ngumiti ako sakaniya ngunit seryoso lamang siya habang pinagmamasdan ako.

“You are surprisingly good at this, welcome to the team. But,” Ngingiti na sana ulit ako nang may kasunod pa siyang sasabihin. “Lose the hair, work out on your body, and probably grow a mustache so you can look like a man.” I gaped at what he said while eyeing me.

Hindi na ako nakapagsalita pa nang tumalikod na siya at naglakad papasok sa locker room.

Is he for real?

“Haha, pagpasensyahan mo na si Vesper. Tigasin kasi yun.” One of the guys said, I heard his name is Julian.

“He has fragile masculinity.” I muttered and walked away. Narinig ko namang natawa sila. They probably think so too.

---

“Hey, how was the team?” Pagkapasok ko pa lang sa kwarto ni Owen ay iyon na agad ang tanong niya saakin. Umiling ako sakaniya bago umupo sa gilid ng kama kung saan siya nakahiga.

“I got in, but the Captain of Haraya doesn’t seem to like how I look.” Sabi ko habang tinutulungan siyang makaupo. Na injury kasi ang tuhod niya at hindi pa siya makagalaw dahil sa surgery na ginawa sakaniya.

“Si Vesper ba? What did he say about you?” Tanong nito na parang inaasahan niyang may sasabihin nga saakin ang lalaking iyon.

“Lose the hair, work out, grow a mustache! So fucking arrogant.” Hindi ko makanapaniwalang kwento. Natawa naman siya bago ako tinapik sa balikat.

“Ayaw kasi n’on na may palambot-lambot sa team na lalaki, baka may trauma.” Tawa niya pa kaya napakunot-noo akong natawa rin.

“He’s so weird, but the team is good. Not as good as my former team tho.” Ngisi ko at napairap siya.

“So, what did tito Stevan said about you, quiting at Duncan’s?” Tanong niya dahil big deal sa ama ko ang pagiging part ko sa basketball team ng University.

“He threw a fit, of course. But I told him I will find another team here so he calmed down.” Ngiwi ko at ganon rin siya.

“Buti at pinayagan kang umuwi ng Pilipinas? Halos itakwil non si Sevan nung umuwi siya ng Pilipinas.” Sevan is my younger brother. My father is the typical strict parent who have high standards for us. In all honesty, basketball wasn’t my thing, but in order to win my father’s trust and love, I needed to learn to love it. I’m good at it because I have to. My father was also the reason kung bakit gusto kong umuwi ng Pilipinas, I want to get away from him. He’s becoming too much for me.

“Anyway, Sevan’s career is going off, same with Sebastian. Did you meet the two of them?” Naibaba ko ang mga mata ko nang banggitin niya si Sebastian.

“I called Sevan, and I don’t have plans to meet Seba.” Maikli kong sagot at napatitig naman siya saakin bago naiiling na ginalaw ang dulo ng buhok ko.

“If you’re really done with him, why not lose the hair?” He asked kaya muli akong napangiwi. He really want to know the real score between me and Sebastian, huh.

“I want to, but now that I saw how that Vesper wanted me to cut it so much, I think I will keep it for a while.” Ngisi ko at natawa naman siya.

“Kita mong pikon na nga, aasarin mo pa.” Tawa ni Owen kaya nahawa ako. Naalala ko nanaman ang pag asim ng mukha ni Vesper noong malaman niyang lalaki ako. It’s so funny.

“He’s really so weird, Owen. I think he’s homophobic.” Hindi iyon nakakatawa pero natatawa ako dahil napakalaking tao niya para maging sensitive about sa preference ng ibang tao. Hindi sakaniya bagay.

“Mabait naman iyon, he’s my best friend for a reason. Bully lang talaga minsan.” Tawa niya pa kaya napapailing na natatawa rin ako. Ganon kami nabuksan ng isa sa mga katulong nila Owen. May dala itong suit na nasa hanger.

“Sir Owen, ito na po ang isusuot niyo mamaya.” The helper said and put the suit above the sofa near us. Kinausap naman siya ni Owen hanggang sa naitanong nito kung nasaan rin ang susuotin ko. May event kasi mamaya dito sa mansion ng grandmother and grandfather namin. It’s their 50th anniversary.

“Nasa kwarto niyo po, sir Sulli.” Ngumiti ako sa helper at nang makalabas ito ay humarap ulit ako kay Owen.

“Sevan is also going here, I should call him.” Sabi ko bago tumayo at binalak na lumabas ng pinto ng kwarto niya.

“Will he be with Sebastian?” Banggit niyang muli kay Seba. I looked at him and sighed.

“I hope not.” I really hope so.

SEDUCTIVE RIVALRY

Rivalry 2

Vesper’s

“Gago pre, may event ata sila Owen.” Napaatras kami lahat sa pagpasok sa mansiyon nila Owen nang marinig at makita namin ang nagaganap sa loob. May okasyon nga!

“Hoy, nandito na kayo? Pati sa likod ng bahay nila may reception.” Nagulat pa kami nang makita namin si Elias sa likod namin. Nauna kasi siyang pumunta rito. Gabi na at mag a-alas otso na ata nang binalak namin na bisitahin si Owen.

Nakatira kasi siya sa bahay o mansiyon ng lola niya. Siguro ay may okasyon at hindi naman namin alam! Hindi rin kasi namin pinaalam sakaniya na pupunta kami. Pinapasok naman kami kanina ng guard, hindi man lang sinabi na may nagaganap pala sa loob.

“Kahiya ng mga suot natin kung papasok tayo, mga naka suit pa sila oh.” Si Theo na paatras nang paatras.

“Bukas na lang siguro tayo dalaw, ang daming tao.” Sabi ko rin at tumalikod na para lumakad palabas.

Malaki ang bahay nila Owen, mansyon ang tawag namin dahil ang layo ng main gate nila sa mismong bahay. Malawak ang field at marami ang katulong.

Naglakad na kami palabas ng gate pero biglang nagsalita si Simon.

“Si Sulli ba yun? Diba siya yun?” Sabi niya at nagulat pa ako nang hilahin nila ako bigla patago sa nadaanan naming mga Italian cypress trees na malalaki. Nagkalat iyon sa bukana ng gate nila kung saan sa gilid ay may parking lot na hindi kalawakan.

“Ano ba?!” Singhal ko pero pare-pareho nila akong pinatahimik at itinuro ang tinitingnan nila. I looked at it and it was Sullivan with a guy that’s seems familiar. Naka white suit si Sulli at nakatali ang buhok nito habang kinekwelyuhan niya iyong kaharap niyang lalaki na mas matangkad sakaniya. The guy he’s with doesn’t look like he’s here for the event, naka casual clothes lang kasi siya compare kay Sulli na naka suit. But the guy still looks like he’s modeling for something.

“Sulli, I just want to talk.” Rinig namin na sabi nung lalaki na sobrang pamilyar talaga ang mukha para saakin.

“Gago, diba si Sebastian yan? Yung artista?” Mahinang sabi ni Theo kaya tumingin kami sakaniya. Tumingin muli ako doon sa lalaki at totoo nga, siya nga iyon. I knew that guy was familiar. Napanuod ko na ang isa sa mga movies niya, he’s an action star and I love action movies.

“Talk? Then why are you trying to kiss me? Is that the new talk, Seba?” Hindi kami nakapag react sa narinig namin dahil sa gulat. Ano raw? Kiss?

“I miss you, Sul. Please, let’s just get back together. Let’s fix this.” What? Binitawan ni Sulli iyong lalaki at umatras pa siya bago ito seryosong tinitigan.

“You cheated on me, we are not going back together, never.” Nawiwindang kaming lahat sa naririnig namin ngayon, lalong-lalo na ako.

“He’s gay?” Gulat na gulat na sabi ni Theo sa mahinang boses.

“They are gay.” Pabulong na sagot naman ni Simon. I tsked. I knew I didn’t like that guy for a reason! He’s a liar. He was hiding something from us. He’s just really too pretty to be a man!

“I told you nothing happened between us, Sulli. Why can’t you just listen to me? Stop being a brat.” Napakunot-noo ako nang subukang lumapit ng lalaki at hinawakan niya sa magkabilang braso si Sulli. Halos hindi kami makapagsalita lahat at nakikinig lamang sa mga susunod na sasabihin nilang dalawa.

“I will never do that to you, you should know that. I love you so mu-”

“I saw the pictures, Sebastian. We are done, I’m not here in the Philippines for you.” Malamig na sabi ni Sulli habang pumipiglas sa hawak nitong Sebastian.

“Then why did tito Stevan called me and said you are staying with me?” Natigilan si Sulli sa sinabi ni Sebastian. He tsked and rolled his eyes.

“Do me a favor, just act like we are in good terms and I’m with you. I don’t want to go back to Canada.” Tatalikod na sana si Sulli ngunit hinabol siya nung Sebastian at pinilit na paharapin sakaniya. He also tried hugging him again while saying something but Sulli kept resisting. Agad na bumalot ang inis sa dibdib ko dahil sa nakikita.

“Let go!” Sigaw pa ni Sulli. Why can’t he just push the jerk off? Masyado kasi siyang lambutin! “It hurts, Sebastian, let go!” Napapikit ako at hindi na nakapag-pigil.

“H-Hoy!” Hindi ako nakapag-pigil at lumabas ako sa pinagtataguan namin. Lahat naman kami ay nagulat pati na rin ako. Shit! Bakit ako lumabas?!

“V-Vesper?” Taka ni Sulli habang pareho na silang nakatingin saakin ngayon. Napatalikod ako sa kahihiyan at tiningnan kung nasaan sila Theo ngunit wala na sila sa pinagtataguan namin kanina. Punyeta, iniwan ako ng mga loko!

“Who is he?” Tanong nung Sebastian kaya muli akong humarap sakanila.

“I-I was just passing by and saw that you are harassing my teammate here, aren’t you a celebrity?” Lakas loob kong salita. Tumaas naman agad ang kilay nitong Sebastian habang si Sulli ay napatitig lamang saakin. He must be confused about my sudden appearance. Kung hindi ba naman ako malaking tanga at lumabas sa pinagtataguan namin.

“Teammate? And harassing? Excuse me but this is a lovers quarrel, nothing you should be concerned about.” Sagot niya saakin habang may maliit na ngisi sa mga labi na halatang dahil sa pagkainis. Napangiwi naman ako at natawa rin sakaniya. Nakakainis ang ngisi niya.

“LQ? Rinig ko ay ex ka na ah?” Hindi ko napigilan ang bibig ko at sumama agad ang mukha ng kausap ko. Si Sulli naman ang nagsalita.

“Seba, go home. I’ll talk to you if I get the chance to.” Pagtaboy niya sa lalaki. Ayaw niya ata ng gulo.

“But Sull-”

“You are a celebrity, what will happen if this guy sell you out to journalists? Go on, I’ll talk to him.” Natigilan naman kaming dalawa nung Sebastian. I think he just realized that he confessed to me that he’s gay, natigilan naman ako dahil ganon agad ang impression ni Sulli saakin.

He’s mean, I’m his captain.

“Fine, I’ll call you.” The guy couldn’t do anything and walked away. May palingon-lingon pa ito kay Sulli na ngayon ay nakatingin na rin saakin. I just also looked at him at nang makaalis iyong Sebastian ay saka lang siya nagsalita.

“Please don’t tell anyone about what you saw.” Pakiusap niya agad. Nainis naman ako at napalingon pa sa ibang direksyon bago nagsalita.

“Why? You don’t want anyone to know that you’re secretly gay?” Once again, I couldn’t control my smart mouth.

“It’s not really that much of a secret, I’m talking about Sebastian, you know he’s a celebrity. I hope you keep your mouth shut.” Mas lalong bumalot ang inis sa dibdib ko at tinalasan siya ng tingin.

“Worried much about your cheating ex-boyfriend? What a joke.” Gusto kong sapakin ang sarili ko dahil hindi ko mapigilan ang matalas kong dila ngunit naiinis talaga ako sa inaasta ni Sulli. I don’t even know why.

“No, if things get out, my father will know that I’m outing myself as gay and he will bring me back to Canada. You can’t afford to lose a star player anymore, don’t you?” I stared at his face and it didn’t have any emotions in it. But his fierce eyes, it looks like it wants to tell stories. Hindi naman ako nakapagsalita agad dahil sa mga sinabi niya.

His father doesn’t know he’s gay? But he said it’s not a secret.

“Ves,” Pareho kaming natigilan ni Sulli nang lumabas sila Elias sa pinagtataguan nila. Napahangos naman si Sulli at napahawak pa sa sintido niya. I swallowed and rolled my eyes.

“We don’t care about that celebrity, it has nothing to do with us. But you, you’re part of our team.” Sabi ko at alam kong hindi nila iyon inaasahan. Even me.

“W-What about me being into your team-” Natigilan siya at nakagat ang ibabang labi niya. Natuon roon ang mga mata ko at napatikhim pa.

“Right, I’m sorry I didn’t tell all of you about my preference. But I promise not to do anything that all of you won’t like, I will talk to coach Solis so all of you won’t be so uncomfortable around me.” Natigilan ako sa mga sinasabi niya. Fuck. Did he just jumped into conclusion? What I mean about him being into my team was what if he gets bullied if things get out? Bully ang mga kalaban namin and even tho I kinda hate it that he didn’t tell me he’s gay, I didn’t want to be unreasonable and just straight up make him quit the team. I’m not that much of a jerk.

“T-That’s not-” Hindi ko natapos ang sasabihin ko nang may tumawag sakaniya mula sa likod namin.

“Kuya, what are you doing here? Sino sila?” A guy that looks exactly like Sulli appeared in front of us. Napakurap-kurap pa ako dahil sobrang magkamukha sila pero medyo mas lalaki tingnan itong isa at maikli lang ang buhok niya. Their physique also looks the same, pero mas maliit lang talaga si Sulli pero matangkad. So it’s really genetics, it runs in their family.

“Sev,” Tawag sakaniya ni Sulli. “They’re my new basketball teammates. Owen’s friends.” Sabi niya at lumapit sa lalaking nasa harap namin. I think I got goosebumps when they neared each other and they almost look like one person with their identical look. Pero familiar rin itong kapatid niya saakin, I think I saw him somewhere before.

“Diba si Sevan yan? Artista din.” Si Julian. Napatango-tango naman sila pati na rin ako. I knew he looks familiar. So Sulli is acquainted with two celebrities.

“Oh, hi. Why don’t all of you go inside? I’m sure kuya Owen is waiting for all of you.” Lahat kami ay natameme nang ngumiti ito saamin hanggang sa lumiit ang mga mata niya. The dimples on both of his cheeks also showed.

The resemblance is uncanny.

---

Tahimik akong ngumunguya ng fruit salad sa bibig ko habang pinagmamasdan sila Elias na nakikihalubilo kila Sulli at Sevan. They look so amuse with the siblings while I am here swallowing down all of the information I just got earlier.

“What are you thinking?” I looked at Owen na nasa tabi ko. Nasa kwarto niya kami ngayon at nakaupo siya sa kama niya habang nasa sofa sila Elias. Kanina lang ay si Owen ang kinukulit nila, ngayon ay iyong artista naman na kapatid ni Sulli na binabantayan rin ang kapatid niyang huwag masyadong kulitin ng mga loko. Sobrang friendly kasi nung kapatid niya.

“Nothing, why?” Sagot ko kay Owen. Tumaas naman ang kilay niya saakin.

“Liar, you look bothered.” Ngisi niya kaya napailing ako at nagsalita muli.

“Owen, you didn’t tell us that your cousin is gay.” Sabi ko at natigilan naman siya bago natahimik nang ilang segundo.

“Ves, Sulli has gone through so much because of his preference, please be kind with him.” Muling bumalik ang inis sa dibdib ko nang pati si Owen ay umaaktong napakasama kong tao.

“Am I that much of a bastard, Owen?” Tanong ko at natawa naman siyang umiling-iling.

“No, but I know your mouth is also not kind. None of you don’t need to worry, Sulli has high standards and won’t be interested in any of you. He’s not that kind of gay.” I gaped at what he said.

“Did you just call the whole team cheap and low class?” Hindi ko makapaniwalang tingin sakaniya. Lumakas ang tawa niya.

“Gago, hindi. Alam ko lang na wala sainyo ang type ni Sulli.” Tawa niya pa kaya napatingin saamin si Sulli. Nagkatinginan kami at naalala ko iyong Sebastian kanina. I tsked.

“That punk doesn’t look that good, artista lang talaga siya.” I muttered and Owen couldn’t understand me. Iniwas ni Sulli ang tingin niya saakin kaya nakahangos ako. I didn’t know I was holding my breath while we’re staring at each other.

I stared at him more and I saw his soft smile again while gently looking at his brother who’s laughing with my friends.

This guy just made me so curious about him, and I’m not really liking it that much.

SEDUCTIVE RIVALRY

Rivalry 3

Vesper’s

“Parang ayaw ko na mag practice, naubos ako sa PE kanina ni sir Pat!” Reklamo ni Theo habang naglalakad kami sa hallway papuntang gymnasium. Uwian na ng hapon at as usual ay kailangan namin mag practice.

“Ano ba ginawa niyo?” Tanong ni Julian.

“Self defense, pre. Binalibag ako paulit-ulit.” Naiiyak pa si Theo nang sabihin niya iyon na parang inaalala pa ang nangyari kanina. Natawa kami.

“Mas mauubos ka pa rin sa practice, ayos lang yan.” Asar ni Simon na pinapasikat pa ang masel niyang hindi bugbug kagaya kay Theo. Magkaklase kasi kami nila Julian at Simon, pare-pareho kaming 3rd year college sa kursong Engineering. Si Theo at Elias naman ang napahiwalay, Theo is still in his 2nd year of Culinary while Elias is doing Business in his 4th year. Graduating na siya pero mag s-stay pa rin ata siya next year dahil may mga subject siyang hindi na-take dahil isa siyang varsity player.

“Oh, lakas naman ni Elias, kasama agad si Sulli.” Napalingon ako kay Simon nang sabihin niya iyon. I looked at where he was looking and I saw Elias and Sulli walking together. Pareho pa silang may sinisipsip na lollipop habang naglalakad at mukhang nag-uusap pa. Kumunot ang noo ko at nang makita nila kami ay agad silang lumapit saamin.

“Papunta na rin kayo sa gym? Tara.” Ngiti ni Elias samantalang tahimik lamang si Sulli.

“Bakit kayo magkasama?” Hindi ko napigilang magtanong. Tumingin naman sila saaking dalawa bago nagsalita si Elias.

“Ah, magkaklase kami. Can you believe it? Mas matanda sainyong lahat si Sulli.” Tawa ni Elias at napatingin naman ako kay Sulli na napapangiti rin.

Mas matanda siya saakin? He’s already graduating?

“Naks, kala ko first year ka pa lang.” Biro ni Julian at napailing naman ito bago nauna na lumakad papasok sa gymnasium. Tahimik akong sumunod habang maingay na nagbiruan sa likod ko sila Theo. Natigil lamang kami nang makita si coach Solis na pinapasok si Sulli sa locker room pero hinarang niya kami.

“Boys, Sulli was honest enough to tell me what happened yesterday. He also confessed about his gender preference, and that’s why I have an announcement today.” Agad na kumunot ang noo ko at alam ko na agad na hindi ko magugustuhan ang susunod niyang sasabihin.

“Since all of you might get uncomfortable about him, his words, not mine, we agreed to put this up.” May isinabit siyang medyo malaking placard sa pinto at may nakalagay na words sa magkabilaan.

“If the placard says occupied, then Sulli is inside and none of you should enter. If it says available, then all of you are inside and Sulli shouldn’t enter. It’s that simple.” Ngiti pa ni coach pero lahat kami ay napaungot.

“Who even said we’re uncomfortable around him just because he’s gay?” Hindi ko napigilang mainis. Kailan niya pa kinausap si coach? He’s really going too far just because he thinks we’re that kind of jerks.

“He told me. At para na rin ito sa ikakatahimik ng lahat, ayaw ko ng away sa loob ng team. But this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t treat Sulli as your teammate, remember, basketball is always about coordination and cooperation.” I clicked my tongue at agad na tumalas ang mga mata ko nang lumabas si Sulli sa locker room na bihis na. Tumingin siya saamin bago ibinaliktad ang placard sa indikasyong wala na siya sa loob. I bit my lip in annoyance and quickly grabbed his wrist. Inakay ko siya palayo roon at tinatawag pa nila ako pero hindi ko sila pinansin.

“What’s wrong? Let go of my hand.” Malumanay niyang sabi at hindi pumipiglas. Hindi ko naman siya binitawan at hinarap ko siya nang makapasok kami sa isang room na walang tao.

“Ano namang trip ang gusto mo? Why do we need to have that stupid rule now?” Singhal ko at napakurap-kurap naman siya saakin. Parang gusto kong panggigilan ang mukha niya sa inosente niyang mga tingin ngayon na parang wala siyang ginawang mali.

“I just don’t want you to be uncomfortable when I get naked in front of all of you.” Natigilan ako sa sinagot niya saakin at ako naman ang napakurap-kurap sa mukha niya.

“A-Ano?”

“I get butt naked every time I change into my jersey.” Sagot niya saakin kaya nabitawan ko ang kamay niya.

“And I might also drool when I see all of you get naked around me. I really like muscles.” Sabi niya pa na ikinaatras ko sakaniya.

---

Sulli’s

Mahina akong natawa nang maalala ko nanaman ang mukha ni Vesper kahapon. Yumuko ako at pinigilang malakas na matawa dahil may Professor sa harap ng klase.

Kahapon kasi ay mukhang galit siya sa napag-usapan namin ni coach Solis kaya kung ano-anong pagsisinungaling ang sinabi ko sakaniya kagaya ng naghuhubo’t-hubad ako kapag nagpapalit ng jersey at baka maglaway ako sakanila kapag nakita ko ang mga katawan nila.

I said all of that to annoy him but he wasn’t annoyed at all. He just looks so unbelievably terrified like a scared puppy. Halos hindi niya na ako nakausap at mabilis na umalis sa harap ko. Buong practice niya rin ako iniwasan ng tingin at halos magkatumba-tumba pa siya sa practice kakaiwas na mapalapit saakin, the coach was so mad at him. Tawang-tawa naman ako sakaniya.

So that’s his face when he’s flustered, huh? Cute.

Napapikit ako nang may maliit na tawa ang lumabas sa bibig ko. I tried so hard to contain my laugh when someone asked me.

“What’s wrong? Why do you look like that? Are you in pain?” Narinig ko ang boses ni Elias, dahil katabi ko lamang siya ay nakita niya ata ang pagpigil ko ng tawa. I looked at him while smiling like a maniac and my eyes are probably tearing up from how much I wanted to laugh out loud.

“M-May naalala kasi akong nakakatawa.” Ani ko sa nagpipigil pa rin na tawa. Napatulala naman siya sa mukha ko at dahil doon ay naalala ko muli ang mukha ni Vesper kahapon. The pure shock and confusion on his handsome face was so funny. He looks so scared of the thought of me getting naked in front of him. Natakot rin siguro siya na baka maglaway ako sa katawan niya. I couldn’t help it anymore and I burst out laughing. Agad na nagtinginan ang mga kaklase ko saakin.

“Mr. Turner, what’s so funny?” Narinig ko ang galit na tanong ng Prof. kaya napapapikit akong nagsisi sa nagawa ko. Shit. Bwesit kasing Vesper.

“S-Sorry po, n-nagbiro po kasi si Elias.” Pagsisinungaling ko at hindi naman makapaniwalang tumingin saakin si Elias. Lihim akong nag peace sign sakaniya at nagsimula ang sermon saamin ng Prof. hanggang sa pinalabas kami nito ng classroom sa sobrang inis nito saamin.

“What the hell, Sulli?” Natatawang tanong saakin ni Elias habang malakas akong tumatawa sa hallway pababa ng building namin.

“S-Sorry talaga, hindi ko na kasi mapigilan.” Tawa ko at nagtataka pa rin siyang nakatingin saakin habang napapailing.

“Bakit ka ba tawa nang tawa? What’s so funny inside your head?” Nagtatanong pa lamang si Elias ay mukhang nahahawa na rin siya sa kakatawa ko. Napailing-iling ako at umupo sa nakita kong upuan sa gilid ng hallway. Sumunod naman siya saakin.

“Your friend is so funny kasi, is Vesper scared of gays?” Hindi ko napigilang magtanong. Kumunot naman ang noo niya at mukhang napaisip pa sa tanong ko.

“I don’t know? Why do you ask?” Natawa akong muli bago ko kinwento ang nangyari kahapon. Naintindihan niya naman agad kung anong ikinakatawa ko at napasabay siya saakin. Halos maluha-luha ako at sumasakit na rin ang tiyan ko kakaisip sa mukha ni Vesper kahapon. He’s so unintentionally funny. Ang laki niyang tao para maging takot sa bakla.

“Loko ka, ang sama ng trip mo.” Tawa ni Elias kaya napailing-iling akong pinunasan ang mga luha sa mata ko.

“Bakit ba kasi galit na galit sakin yun? Feeling ko talaga homophobic yang tropa mo ’e.” Sabi ko habang pinapahupa ang sakit sa tiyan ko dahil sa kakatawa. Napangiwi naman siya sa sinabi ko.

“Hindi naman siguro, bugnutin lang talaga yun si Ves. Hindi rin ata sanay makakita ng femboy.” Sabi niya at tumaas naman ang kilay ko sa huli niyang sinabi.

“Do I look like a femboy?” Taas kilay ko at mukhang natauhan naman siya sa sinabi niya.

“A-ah ano, s-sorry—” Tinawanan ko siya dahil mukhang ne-nerbyos siya sa pagtanong ko.

“Joke lang, a lot of people call me that just because I have a slim body and a long hair. I’m just shocked how did you know that word?” Mas lalo siyang namula sa tanong ko. Napalunok pa siya kaya lihim kong pinagmasdan ang mukha niya. Gwapo rin itong si Elias, actually lahat sila sa basketball team ay may itsura, kaso ay kapag natatabi kay Vesper ay talagang angat ang itsura ng isang yun. Mukha kasing may lahi si Vesper, lalo na sa laki niya at sa dirty blonde niyang buhok. If not for his immature attitude, he’s the hottest guy on this campus. 

“I have a brother that is also gay, he’s a femboy.” Natigilan ako sa sinabi niya at namamanghang napatango-tango. Kaya pala parang walang issue sakaniya ang pagiging bakla ko.

“Oh, that’s why. But I’m not feminine, I mean, I have feminine features, but I definitely don’t act feminine because I’m part of the basketball team. My father will kill me if I act like one.” Biro ko at napangiwi naman siya habang uma-agree sa sinabi ko.

“You’re not out to your family?” He asked and I chuckled.

“I lost count of how many times I came out to them but they refused to acknowledge it, they’re still in denial and thinks I’m straight as hell.” Natawa siya sa sinabi ko kaya napangiti rin ako. Elias is surprisingly so approachable, nung nalaman ko na may kaklase ako sa team ay malaki agad ang naging disgusto ko because I thought that they’re all jerks but of course, I was just being too judgemental again. Yung Captain lang talaga ang lagi akong iniinis sa pagkadaldal niyang walang sense. While my other teammates are just chill like Elias, they’re approachable and friendly like they don’t even care about my sexual preference. I’m starting to like it here.

“But about Vesper, please don’t take it personally whenever he says something stupid, he just doesn’t really know how to express himself better. But he’s a good guy.” Bigla niyang sabi kaya napalingon ako sakaniya. Owen also said that, but I just think they’re giving him too much of their benefit of the doubt. That guy acts like my father, always nagging me to act more masculine and when he told me to lose the hair and gain some muscles, iyon na iyon lagi ang line ng Papa kapag nakikita ako. He’s actually the typical guy with fragile masculinity and he’s projecting it to every gays he meets. I hate that kind of person, because they also hate it when they see a guy acting not so masculine, they’re so fragile.

“Well, he better start getting better at it, not everyone will understand his nonsense.” I snorted and he chuckled at me.

“Yan rin ang lagi naming sinasabi sakaniya, especially Owen since they’re the closest. Owen always act like Vesper is his son or something.” Natawa ako sa kwento niya. That’s so Owen, always acting so mature around everyone, even with me.

Magsasalita pa sana ako nang makita namin ang taong pinag-uusapan namin na may hinahabol na babae.

“Listen to me, Marga! Stop running!” Nagulat ako nang marinig ko ang malakas niyang boses. Nasa hagdan sila sa left side namin kaya kitang-kita namin sila ni Elias. Vesper is yelling at a beautiful girl with dirty blonde hair like him.

“Stop telling me what to do! I don’t need you!” Hindi siya pinansin ng babaeng hinahabol niya at mabilis itong tumakbo palayo sakaniya. He gave up and just glared at where the girl was running towards. Napatingin naman ako kay Elias na napatayo.

“That’s his younger sister.” He said before walking towards Vesper. Sumunod naman ako sakaniya. May kapatid pala ang lokong ’to?

“What’s going on, Ves?” Tanong ni Elias nang makalapit kami. Agad naman itong napatingin saamin at mukhang nagulat pa sa presensya namin. Napaiwas ito ng tingin na parang nahihiya na nakita namin iyon bago inis na napaungot.

“That brat is hanging out with Sid again.” Galit niyang sabi and of course I don’t know what he’s talking about. Who’s Sid?

“Oh my god, she just doesn’t listen.” Parang agad naman naintindihan ni Elias ang frustration ni Vesper. Hindi na ako nagtanong dahil ayokong isipin nilang gusto kong malaman. I stayed quiet and just observed how stressed Vesper looked.

He’s worried about his sister, I can tell. May ganito rin palang side ang loko.

S

EDUCTIVE RIVALRY

Rivalry 4

Sulli’s

Napabuntong-hininga ako habang tinititigan ang email na sinend saakin ng agency ng condominium na gusto kong rentahan. They can’t accommodate me since I’m still a student. Napailing ako at pumasok sa cafe na nakita ko mula sa kinatatayuan ko. It’s Saturday and I’m out looking for a condo near the campus. I can’t stay at my grandma’s house, my father will know that I am not staying with Sebastian.

“One slice of this, and a black coffee.” Order ko sa counter bago ako umupo sa single table na may katabing malaking table. I looked at my phone to browse places that have condos while waiting for my order when a group of people entered the cafe.

“Imagine having that ugly face, I will kill myself.” Naitaas ko ang ulo ko nang umupo sila sa nasa harap kong malaking mesa. They’re a group of six and I couldn’t keep my eyes away when I saw a familiar face. It’s Vesper’s younger sister. May mga kasama siyang lalaki, ang isa ay nakaakbay sakaniya.

“Forget it, we will have fun tonight. Marga, you should come, right Sid?” One of them said and I looked at the guy who’s now sitting across my seat. Marga and Sid. That’s really Vesper’s younger sister and the guy he doesn’t want her to hang out with.

“His brother won’t let her.” The one who I think is Sid answered with a playful smile on his face. Pinagmasdan ko siya at matangkad siyang lalaki kahit nakaupo. He has a strong aura and he’s handsome, but not the kind of handsome you will trust. The vibe he gives off, he’s a jock.

”As if he can stop me. I will come, it’s my boyfriend’s party after all.” Vesper’s sister said at hinalikan niya pa sa pisnge iyong Sid. Ngumisi sakaniya iyong lalaki and they started kissing like there’s no one around them. Ang grupo nila ay parang wala namang pakialam sa ginagawa ng dalawa but I couldn’t keep my eyes away from them.

What are they? Teenagers? They look young, probably first year college or sophomores. Napaigtad ako nang magtama ang mga mata namin ng kapatid ni Vesper habang nakikipaghalikan pa rin siya. She stopped and looked at me.

“What are you looking at? Jealous?” She said and I was caught off guard. Naituro ko pa ang sarili ko sa sobrang gulat.

“Why would I be jealous?” Taka ko sa sinabi niya. Nagtama ang mga mata namin nung Sid at nakangiti siya kahit mukhang inis ang girlfriend niya.

“Ohhh, she’s not scared of you, Marga.” One of the guys said, taunting us. I groaned and looked at Marga when she stood up. Not again, they think I’m a woman.

“She should be—” She was about to walk towards me when her boyfriend stopped her.

“Stop it, I don’t think she meant to stare.” The guy who I think is Sid said. I almost rolled my eyes when she just glared at me like she’s really pissed off. Just because I stared? What a bitch. Tumayo ako bago nagsalita.

“If you don’t want people to look at you, stop stuffing your face into someone else. And I’m not a girl.” Ani ko at tinapik ko pa ang dibdib ko na walang umbok. Tumalikod ako para pumunta sa restroom. Hindi naman na sila nakapagsalita, they’re probably shocked that I wasn’t a girl. Nakalugay kasi ang buhok ko ngayon.

Habang papalakad sa restroom ay nakasalubong ko pa ang waiter na dala ang in-order ko. Tinuro ko sakaniya ang table ko pero malayo na roon sa dati. I don’t want to be near those bullies. Isang tingin at rinig mo palang sakanila ay halatang mga bully talaga sila. They’re also so loud and they don’t care about anyone else around them. I hate bullies so much.

Umihi ako sa men restroom at nang matapos ay humarap ako sa sink para maghugas ng kamay. Sakto namang bumukas ang pinto at pumasok iyong Sid. Nakangiti nanaman siya at dumeretso pa sa tabi ko.

“I’m sorry about that girl, I think she have anger issues.” Pagkausap niya agad saakin. I looked at him from the mirror.

“Isn’t she your girlfriend?” I asked because he’s talking shit about her now. Natatawang umiling naman ito.

“Hell no, she’s just a fling. A clingy one.” Mayabang niyang sabi. I scoffed. Now I know why Vesper didn’t want his sister to hang out with this jerk. He’s a total shithead.

Hindi na ako kumibo pa at tatalikod na sana nang pigilan niya ako at hawakan sa braso. I looked at him and he immediately spoke.

“What’s your name?” He asked. I looked at his hand before speaking.

“Why do you wanna know?” Tanong ko at pinagmasdan niya naman ang kabuoan ko. “What?” I asked.

“You really look like a girl, even prettier than them.” He flirtatiously said. I almost laugh. Is he attracted to me? Kunot-noo kong inalis ang hawak niya saakin bago sumagot.

“I get that a lot.” Tanging sagot ko pero hindi siya nakakaramdam na ayaw ko siyang kausap.

“I’m Sid Llano, you are?” Pakilala niya at muling tanong sa pangalan ko. I looked at his hand in front of me and I couldn’t do anything but to say my name. I don’t want to be rude, baka bangasan ako ng isang ’to.

“Sullivan Turner, they call me Sulli.” Tinanggap ko ang kamay niya at parang nagwagi naman siya sa nangyari. Napailing ako.

“Turner, you’re a foreigner?” Tanong niya pa. I nodded my head.

“Half Canadian, I just got back. Anyway, I need to go.” Kwento at paalam ko pero muli niya akong pinigilan.

“Do you want to go to a party, tonight? I’ll make sure you’ll enjoy it, Sulli.” Banggit niya sa pangalan ko. I was about to immediately refused but I remembered what Marga said earlier and the face of Vesper when he was following his sister.

Marga will go no matter what. Napapikit ako sa inis nang maalala ko ang nag-aalalang mukha ni Vesper.

He keeps bothering me without him knowing. I hate it.

“Send me the address.”

---

HAbang kumakain ako ay tinititigan ko ang selpon ko kung saan may message iyong Sid. He sent me the address and told me to come at 8.

“What are you staring at?” Lumingon ako kay Owen nang tanungin niya iyon. Nasa hapag kami ngayon ng mansyon ngunit kami lamang ang kumakain sa napakalaking mesa sa dining area. Hindi na kasi kumakain dito ang lolo at lola, sa kwarto na nila kasama ang personal nurses nila. Wala namang ibang nakatira dito kundi kami pero halos araw-araw bumibista ang mga aunties and cousins namin.

“Owen, Vesper has a bitchy younger sister?” Patanong kong sabi. Natawa naman siya.

“Oh, you already met Marga?” Natatawa niyang tanong. I nodded my head.

“She thought I was a girl and wanted to fight. Is being unreasonable in their genes?” I asked and he chuckled before speaking.

“Marga is the worst, everyone hates that girl. Vesper is annoying sometimes but he’s definitely not on her level of being a bitch. It’s no wonder though, Marga is only his half sister.” Madaldal niyang sabi. Napatango-tango ako. So that’s why she’s hanging out with those bullies. Nasa rebellion phase siya.

“Vesper was worried because she’s hanging out with this guy named Sid.” Sabi ko pa at natigilan naman siya. Now I’m really getting curious. Elias was also stressed when he heard it.

“What? She really doesn’t learn. Sakit nanaman sa ulo ni Vesper ’to.” Iling-iling niya kaya nagtanong ako agad.

“Why? What’s wrong with Sid? I think he’s Marga’s boyfriend.” Curious kong tanong. Binitawan niya naman ang hawak niyang kutsara’t tinidor at humarap saakin.

“It’s not actually about Sid that we are worried about, it’s about his circle of friends, they have history of..” Natigil pa siya na parang hindi siya sigurado kung iku-kwento saakin. Napaungot ako.

“Tell me.” Udyok ko kaya napabuntong-hininga siya.

“Well, it wasn’t proved that they’re the one who really did it, but Sid’s friends gang raped a girl that Sid was pursuing. And that jerk didn’t even believed his girl. Hindi rin napatunayan na sila ang gumawa, mayayaman kasi. But everyone knows they did it, party kasi nila ang huling pinuntahan nung babae.” Ako naman ang napahawak sa bibig ko at mas lalo akong hindi napakali. Fuck. So that’s why Vesper and Elias was frustrated about Marga hanging out with that bastard.

“Are you serious?” Hindi ko makapaniwalang tanong. Seryoso siyang tumango-tango.

“Yeah, and it happened twice. They also did it with a gay teacher, pinagpasa-pasahan nila. And worst, they uploaded a video of that gay teacher riding someone’s dick, mukha lang nung teacher ang nakita kaya hindi pa rin nanagot ang mga gago. And for the icing on top, they were also the one who did this to me, they’re from Silang University, Vesper and Marga’s former school.” Seryosong-seryoso niyang sabi at tinuro pa ang tuhod niya bago ako hinawakan sa balikat. “Kaya ikaw, don’t ever get yourself involved with any of them.” Babala niya at natawa naman ako sa inis dahil sa mga nalalaman ko. So they’re not just the typical bullies. They are the fucking devils. I’m getting frustrated.

“But they won’t probably do it with Vesper’s sister, right?” I asked with a hopeful voice. He sighed.

“They hate Vesper because his family is much powerful than their family, so if ever, they will definitely do it with Marga. That’s why Vesper is especially strict with her, but she just won’t listen. They’re the worst and she doesn’t want to admit it.” I licked my lips and tsked. Why did I got caught up in this drama? I can’t believe this.

“Sid invited me to a party tonight, and Marga is also going there.” Kinakabahan kong sabi dahil kung totoo nga ang mga sinasabi niya and I know it’s true because Owen will never lie about things like this, delikado ang kapatid ni Vesper ngayon. Dumaan nanaman sa isip ko ang nag-aalala niyang mukha. Fuck this.

“What?! How did they know you?” Gulat niyang tanong.

“Long story, but I think we need to rescue Vesper’s younger sister. Is this really fucking serious? I can’t believe they can do that and get away with it.” I know Owen will never lie with something like this, but I just really can’t believe it. There’s something terrible happening with these schools and no one is getting justice? Unbelievable. Pero ano pa nga ba ang a-asahan dito, money always wins.

“Believe me, Sulli. Their parents are politicians and known bussinesmen, they can do every shitty thing and get away with it. Sid is another story tho.” Napailing-iling na ako sa sinasabi niya at tumayo.

“I’m going in there, I need to make sure that Marga is safe or my conscience will kill me.” Nagmamadali kong sabi pero tumutol agad si Owen.

“No, you can’t go in there alone.” Sabi niya ngunit atat na atat na ako. It’s already 10 pm and the party started at 8!

“I need to go, I’ll text you the address of the party.” Hindi ko na siya pinakinggan pa at nagmamadali akong lumabas kahit na tinatawag niya ako.

---

Vesper’s

I glared at the club in front of me. Three storey iyon at alam na alam ko ang lugar na ito. It was a club I used to go to when I was still a student at Silang University. Everyone knows that me and my sister studied at Silang when we were highschool. Lumipat lamang kami ng college dahil pinag-initan ako ng mga anak ng politiko kong mga kaklase.

Sid was my friend before, we wanted to be a professional basketball player but he got lost in the way when he got involved with those rapists. I was a kid and even tho my family has the power to protect me and my sister, I didn’t want to be like them who abused their family’s connection, kaya ako lumipat sa Haraya at sinama ko ang kapatid kong sobrang tutol sa ginawa ko. Until now, she’s still hanging out with those bastards. It’s no wonder, she loves Sid. And Sid is using her to piss me off.

I knew Marga was going here to party with those criminals. I really need her to behave or I will tell our father she’s being difficult again.

Pumasok ako ng club na iyon at pinapasok naman ako kaagad ng guard dahil nakilala ako nito. Dumeretso ako sa elevator at pinindot ang pinakamataas na floor dahil doon madalas tumatambay ang grupo ni Sid. May pool roon at ilang bar counter.

I just need to drag her ass down and go home. I should also probably warn those bastard to never piss me off again. They’re seriously getting on my nerves. Why can’t they just fucking behave like a normal college student, they’re being so difficult just because they have the power.

The door to the elevator opened and I immediately searched my eyes for my sister but I was shocked when I found something else more nerve wrecking.

There’s no one else in here but two people swimming in the pool. I saw Sulli, swimming with Sid. He was shirtless and they keep staring at each other. Halatang-halata ang interes ni Sid kay Sulli samantalang parang malalim ang iniisip ni Sulli.

Why the fuck is he here? How the hell did he know Sid?

Hindi ako makagalaw habang pinagmamasdan si Sulli nang sa wakas ay gumalaw ito para lumapit kay Sid. His hair is already wet but it’s still making him look ethereal. Even tho he’s a guy, I can’t really deny how beautiful he is. Kahit basang-basang ay siya ang pinaka mapapansin mo sa buong rooftop na ito.

I tsked at myself for forgetting why am I here but I also need to know why Sulli is here, he’s my teammate. Lalakad na sana ako palapit sakanila nang mabato ako sa kinatatayuan dahil sa nakita ko.

Sid suddenly claimed Sulli’s lips.

SEDUCTIVE RIVALRY

Rivalry 5

TW: HARRASSMENT

Sulli’s

“C’mon, kiss me, I’ll tell you where she is.” Sid playfully said. Kanina niya pa iyon pinipilit. When I got here, I couldn’t find Marga but Sid was already waiting for me at the entrance. Dinala niya ako sa rooftop hanggang sa napilit niya akong mag swimming, he said he will tell me where Marga is if I swim with him but now he’s asking for something else again.

“Why are you so worried about her anyway. She was being a bitch to you earlier.” Sabi niya pa ngunit nakatulala na lamang ako dahil sa lamig at pag-aalala sa kapatid ni Vesper. Fuck. Sometimes I wish I don’t have conscience. I’m worried about a stranger. But deep down I knew I was doing this because Vesper’s worried face keeps appearing inside my head.

Tumingala ako kay Sid at lumapit lalo sakaniya. Hindi naman siya gumalaw at pinagmasdan lamang ako habang may naglalarong ngiti sa mga labi niya. He looks so smug. I looked at his face and asked.

“If you don’t tell me where she is after we kiss, I’ll fucking cut your dick off.” Banta ko at ngumisi lamang siya saakin bago sakupin ang bibig ko. Hawak-hawak niya ang buong mukha ko kaya’t hindi na ako makagalaw. Napapikit na lamang ako nang malasahan ko ang alak sa bibig niya. It’s bitter. Nagulat pa ako nang sipsipin niya ang ibabang labi ko and he tried putting his tounge inside my mouth. I was about to push him off when someone pulled me up. Sa sobrang lakas ng pagkakahila saakin ay tumama ang tagiliran ko sa gilid ng pool hanggang sa nakaahon ako. Fuck!

Hindi agad ako nakaimik dahil sa sakit ng pagkakatama sa tagiliran ko at sa higpit ng pagkakahawak sa braso ko. I looked at the one who did it and I was shocked to see Vesper glaring at me. Hindi niya pa rin binibitawan ang braso ko.

“L-Let go..” Nanghihina kong sabi ngunit kitang-kita ko ang galit sa mga mata niya. Why the hell is he so mad? Fucking hell.

“Let him go, Vesper!” Umalingawngaw sa rooftop ang boses ni Sid nang itulak siya nito para makalayo saakin. Nakaahon na siya at may ngising nakatingin sa galit na mukha ni Vesper. Kagat labi kong hinaplos ang braso ko dahil sa sakit ng pagkakahawak ni Vesper doon. What the hell is wrong with him? Did Owen tell him to go here? Why is he suddenly so mad at me?

“Come here.” Natigilan ako nang sabihin niya iyon sa seryosong boses. I heard that voice of him when he was yelling at his sister. It’s full of authority and it feels so heavy that you will get nervous when you hear it. Why is he using that tone on me?

“It’s a surprise to see you here, Ves. What’s up, man? It’s been a while, but you don’t seem to be happy to see me.” Asar ni Sid na mukhang hindi nahahalata na kilala ako ni Vesper. I tsked and glared at him to tell him not to make it obvious that he knows me but he seems so out of the world because of his anger. Shit. Seriously, there’s something wrong with him. He’s scary to look at. Parang papatay siya ng tao.

“Sullivan, come here.” Napalunok ako nang mas galit niya iyong sabihin. He wants me to come to his side pero hindi ako makagalaw dahil sa tono ng boses niya at kung paano siya tumingin sakin. He looks like he wants to kill me. Napalingon naman saakin si Sid bago muling tumingin kay Vesper.

“You know each other?” Seryoso ring tanong ni Sid. Nakagat ko ang labi ko at napakamot sa ilong. I hate this shit. Why did I have to get involved with this drama?

“Oh, you didn’t know that you’re kissing my new small forward? You’re really a motherfucker, Sid. Where’s my sister?!” Napaatras ako nang kwelyuhan ni Vesper si Sid na nagulat pa bago napangisi at lumingon saakin.

“You’re a fucking basketball player at Haraya? That’s fucking hot, Sulli. You played me.” Ngisi nito saakin pero halata ang pikon sa mga mata niya. Napaiwas ako ng tingin at hindi nakaimik nang muli siyang itulak ni Ves.

“Tell me where’s my sister, Sid. Or do you want this shit to go out to the world?” Banta ni Vesper at mukhang nakuha niya ang asar ni Sid na sinugod siya para suntukin. Napamura ako nang magsimula silang mag rambol.

“You always use your family’s connection and then fucking deny it, you’re really a hypocrite!” Sigaw ni Sid habang magsusuntukan sila. Napapangiwi na lamang ako sa tuwing matatamaan nila ang isa’t-isa.

“Stop it! Fuckers.” Napapahangos akong napasabunot sa sarili kong buhok dahil sa ginagawa nila. They’re going to fucking kill each other.

“Tell me where Marga is!”

“You shithead she didn’t come here!” Halos mangiyak-ngiyak ako habang pinapanuod silang bangasan ang isa’t-isa. Nang hindi na ako makatiis ay lumapit ako para awatin sila. I knew I shouldn’t have done that because both of them are huge and taller than me but I couldn’t just not do anything. Nang makalapit pa lamang ako ay agad na nangyari ang kinakatakutan ko.

“Fuck!” Mura ko nang mahagip ako ng suntok ng isa sakanila.

“Sulli!”

“Shit.” Hawak-hawak ko ang mukha ko dahil alam kong pumutok ang labi ko sa pagkakasuntok saakin. Napaupo rin ako at napapikit sa sobrang sakit niyon. Fucking hell, hindi dapat sila naging basketball player, they should’ve been a boxer!

“Are you okay?” Rinig ko ang nag-aalalang tanong ni Sid.

“Don’t fucking touch him.” May humila saakin at naramdam kong kinarga ako na parang isang sako ng bigas. Hindi na ako nakapalag pa at alam ko rin na si Vesper iyon base sa boses niya. Nang makasakay kami sa elevator at sumara iyon ay ibinaba niya ako para sipatin ang mukha ko.

“Your lips are fucking bleeding. Shit, this is what you get for kissing that motherfucker.” Kakamulat ko pa lamang ay iyon na agad ang nasabi niya. I glared at him. He doesn’t really know how to pick a perfect time to be a bastard.

“Fuck you, are you the one who punched me?!” I don’t know where my anger is coming from but I yelled at him. Dahil na rin siguro ito sa sakit ng katawan at mukha ko dahil sa pagkakahila niya saakin kanina at nasuntok pa ako. Lamig na lamig na rin ako dahil hanggang ngayon ay shirtless pa rin ako at naka maikling short lamang. This is all happening to me just because I wanted to help him. Agad namang kumunot ang mga mata niya at bumalik ang galit niyang mga mata kagaya kanina.

“You’re not in the position to yell at me right now, Sulli. Why the fuck are you kissing that bastard?” Matigas niyang sabi ngunit mas lalo lamang ako nun nagalit lalo na nang hawakan niya ang baba ko nang mahigpit para patingalain sakaniya. Tinulak ko siya at tumama siya sa pinto ng elevator dahil sa lakas niyon.

“Are you fucking crazy? May sira ba ang ulo mo?! My body aches because of what you did at ikaw pa ang mayabang!” Galit na galit kong sigaw at hindi naman siya makapaniwalang tumingin saakin nang masama.

“Ako pa ngayon ang may sira sa ulo? Bakit? Dahil naabala ko ang pakikipaghalikan mo sa tanginang yun? Did you fucking came here to get fuck by him, Sulli?” Umangat lahat ng dugo sa ulo ko dahil sa huli niyang sinabi. Sinugod ko siya at saktong bumukas ang elevator at gumulong kami sa labas ng parking lot ng club kung saan madilim at walang tao. Kahit mas malaki siya saakin ay sa sobrang galit ko ay pinagsusuntok ko ang dibdib at mukha niya na sinasagang niya naman. I was on top of him and I hopelessly tried to beat him up because of his foul mouth.

“Stop it! Stop it, Sulli!” Saway niya saakin ngunit pikon na pikon ako sakaniya para makinig pa.

“Jerk! You’re a fucking jerk!” I don’t even know if my punches are hurting him but I kept doing it until he caught both of my arms. He glared at me.

“If you wanted someone to hold you that much, you could’ve just told me.” Galit niyang ani at ang sunod niyang ginawa ang sobrang kinagulat ko. Bigla siyang tumayo habang karga ako at gigil niyang sinakop ang bibig ko. Agad akong nagpumiglas nang marahas niyang sipsipin ang mga labi ko at hindi ako nakapalag nang mahuli niya ang dila ko sa loob ng bibig. He started sucking on it while walking towards somewhere. Ang sunod kong naramdam ay ipinasok niya ako sa backseat ng kotse at ipinahiga ako roon. Lumukob ang takot saakin nang kubabawan niya ako at muling marahas na halikan habang ang mga kamay niya ay mahigpit ang hawak sa balakang at mukha ko.

“Hmp! S-Stop! Ah— hmp!” I tried fighting against him but he was too strong and bigger than me. Mabilis na tumulo ang mga luha ko nang bumaba ang mga halik niya sa leeg ko at doon siya marahas na sumipsip at kumagat. Malakas ang kalabog ng dibdib ko nang bumaba pa lalo sa dibdib ko ang mainit niyang bibig. He put my nipple inside his hot mouth and started sucking on it so hard that it already hurts. Napahikbi ako nang maramdaman kong ibinababa niya ang suot kong short.

“Vesper..” Hikbi ko at doon lamang siya natigilan. Nanigas ang buong katawan niya sa ibabaw ko at napatitig siya sa mukha ko. I saw how his eyes got scared when he saw me crying. Muli akong napahikbi.

“S-Sulli..” Utal niya at mabilis na umalis sa ibabaw ko. Umiiyak akong umupo at inayos ang suot kong short. Tumalikod ako sakaniya at tumingin sa bintana ng kotse. This is probably his car.

“S-Sulli.. I— I’m sorr—” Utal-utal niyang sabi ngunit pinigilan ko siya.

“Just take me home, you bastard.” Umiiyak ko pa rin na ani at natahimik naman siya. Ilang segundo bago ko naramdaman na may ipinatong siya sa balikat ko na jacket saka siya lumabas ng kotse para pumunta sa driver seat. Hindi na ako tumingin pa sakaniya at isinuot ko na lamang ang jacket na inabot niya saakin.

He’s really a fucking bastard.

---

Vesper’s

“Fuck.” Mura ko nang makapasok ako sa bahay. Hindi mawala sa isip ko ang katarantaduhang ginawa ko at ang umiiyak na mukha ni Sulli. Gusto kong sapakin ang sarili ko ngayon sa sobrang katangahang ginawa ko.

What the fuck was I thinking?

Sumalampak ako sa sofa sa sala at napahangos nang malalim habang napapahilamos sa mukha.

Shit. Why did I fucking do that to him?

Muli kong naihilamos ang kamay ko sa mukha dahil sa pagkainis sa sarili. I know I was so mad when I saw Sid kissing him but why the hell did I do it too? And I was about to fucking rape him.

Nanghina ako sa naisip at nahilot ko ang sintido ko.

“Are you going crazy, Vesper Magnus? What the fuck did you do.” Pagkausap ko sa sarili. I don’t even know how to fucking defend what I did, there’s no valid reason for me to do that shit. I was a total bastard. All I can do right now is regret and apologize to Sulli, but I couldn’t even apologize properly to him because of how nerve wrecking it is too see his crying face.

“You need to do better, shithead.” Humahangos kong ani dahil kanina pa kumakalabog ang dibdib ko dahil sa nangyari. Hinatid ko si Sulli sa mansyon ng grandparents nila ni Owen and he didn’t talk to me during the whole ride and I also couldn’t say anything. I was fucking speechless of how wrong I did him. He didn’t deserve that. If I know, Sid was also forcing him when they kissed, and yet, I completely lost my shit just because of that. I can’t fucking understand myself.

Natigil ako sa pag-iisip nang marinig kong bumukas ang pinto ng bahay. Agad na gumalaw ang panga ko nang makita kong pumasok si Marga sa pinto.

“Kuya..” Mukhang nagulat rin siya nang makita ako.

“Where have you been?” Tanong ko ngunit umiwas lamang siya ng tingin saakin.

“Stop poking your nose into my busine—”

“Where the fuck have you been, Marga? Do you fucking want me to call Dad?” Banta ko sakaniya at galit naman siyang tumingin saakin.

“You’re full of shit, Vesp—” Muli ko siyang pinutol at kinuha ko ang selpon ko sa bulsa ng suot kong pantalon.

“Do you want me to call him now? Don’t fucking test me now, Marga. I’ve been thru shit just looking for your ass.” Natigilan siya at alam kong alam niyang hindi ako nakikipagbiruan sakaniya ngayon. Inis siyang napayuko at sumagot saakin.

“I was out clubbing with my girl friends, okay? I wasn’t with Sid! He didn’t even want me to go to his party because of you!” Sigaw niya at nagdadabog na tumakbo pataas sa hagdan. Naikiskis ko ang mga ngipin ko sa sobrang pagkapikon sakaniya. She’s really a fucking brat.

Inis ko sanang itatapon ang selpon ko nang makita kong bukas iyon at may ilang messages. May mga missed calls si Owen na hindi ko narinig kasi naka silent ang selpon ko mula pa kanina. I looked at the messages and it was also from Owen. Binuksan ko iyon at binasa.

From: Owen

I think Marga is going to Sid’s party at the same old club, Sulli told me that he was also invited. I told him what they’re capable of and he wanted to make sure your sister is safe so he went in there. Please save the both of them, Sulli is not a physical fighter.

Ves? I’m worried about Sulli, Sid won’t invite him if he’s not interested. Sulli is pretty, he’s Sid’s type.

Please reply ASAP, I’m shitting myself here, man. Sulli wants to find your sister because his conscience is bothering him. He’s stubborn.

If something serious happens to Sulli, I’m going to kill Sid.

Mas lalo akong nanghina nang mabasa ko ang mga text ni Owen.

Sulli went there to find Marga? Fuck.

SEDUCTIVE RIVALRY

Rivalry 6

Vesper’s

“Damn you, Vesper. Why would you do that to Sulli?!” Napapikit ako nang sigawan ako ni Owen. I came clean to him and it turns out Sulli didn’t tell him anything about what I did. He only told him about Sid, he left out what I did to him.

“I’m sorry, alright? I’ve never regretted something more than I am regretting what I did to him last night. I don’t know what’s gotten into me, I was just so mad about what I saw. You know how much I hate Sid. And I’m his captain.” Pagrarason ko na kahit ako ay hindi tatanggapin iyon. Binato niya ako ng unan at nasalo ko iyon. I looked at him like I’m about to cry. Minsan lang magalit ng ganito si Owen, and I understand him because Sulli is his family.

“He let Sid kiss him because he promised to tell Sulli where is your damn sister! He did it for you, asshole!” Napamaang ako sa sinabi niya.

“What?” Naguguluhan kong tanong. Sinamaan niya ako lalo ng tingin.

“That damn bastard tricked Sulli and he fell for it in order to fucking make sure your sister is safe, fucker.” Kumalma siya at napahangos. Hindi ako nakapagsalita sa mga sinasabi niya ngayon.

“Sulli said he couldn’t get your worried face ouf of his mind, that’s why he wanted to make sure nothing happens to your sister. Pero ikaw pa pala ang may gagawin sakaniya. What is wrong with you, Ves?” Nakagat ko ang labi ko at naiinis na napahilamos sa mukha.

“I didn’t know, alright? I’m sorry, I really am. But why the hell is he like that? That would only endanger him.” Hindi ko mapigilang sabi. I’m thankful that he’s kind enough to worry about my sister, but he’s not in any condition to save someone else, ni hindi niya nga maipagtanggol ang sarili niya kagabi.

“I told you he’s stubborn, dapat ay ginagapos mo yang kapatid mo. Huwag niyo akong pinipikon na dalawa ah.” Talagang galit si Owen dahil sa mga sinasabi niya. Kahit ako ay nagagalit sa ginawa ko, I can’t question his anger. I was really an asshole. Galit ako sa mga kaibigan ni Sid dahil mga rapist ito and I almost did it myself. I’m going crazy.

“Where is he? I want to properly apologize to him.” Sabi ko ngunit umiling siya.

“’Wag na, he probably doesn’t want to see you anymore.” Pagmamatigas ni Owen.

“Owe, he’s part of my team, I’m his captain. Magkikita at magkikita kami, I want to fix this.” Nandito talaga ako ngayon sa mansyon nila para makausap si Sulli. I couldn’t sleep because of what I did. I know I fucked up so bad.

“Fine, but make sure to really fix this, Ves. I don’t want to have a friend who acts like this when he’s mad.” Seryoso niyang sabi at napatango naman ako. He told me where is Sulli’s room at agad naman akong lumakad para puntahan iyon.

Nang nasa harap na ako ng pinto ay ilang beses akong nagdalawang isip na kumatok. Sa huli ay wala akong nagawa dahil kailangan kong humingi ng tawad. I knocked at the door and I immediately heard his soothing voice.

“Wait, coming.” My hands fidgeted when I heard him coming. Parang pinagpawisan ako bigla at gusto kong tumakbo palayo ngunit bumukas na ang pinto. Lumantad saakin ang nakahubad barong si Sulli. Nakatapis lamang siya ng twalya sa balakang niya.

“Vesper? Why are you here?” Inis nitong tanong pero hindi agad ako makapagsalita. Pinagmasdan ko ang kabuoan niya. His lips are bruised, he also has bruises on his neck down to his… red nipples. No, it’s not a bruise, it’s the hickeys I gave him. Napalunok ako at magsasalita na sana ngunit napansin ko rin ang pasa sa may tagiliran niya, iyon ang pinakamalaki.

“W-What happened to that?” Tanong ko sa pasa niya sa tagiliran. Tiningnan niya naman iyon bago inis na tumingin saakin.

“You did that, asshole. Nung hinila mo ako sa pool, tumama ang tagiliran ko. Why the hell are you here?” Galit niyang tanong. Napahangos naman ako. So that’s what he meant when he says his body is aching all over and all I did was to be a jerk. Kaya niya pala ako pinagsusuntok kahapon.

“I’m sorry, Sulli. I didn’t know what’s gotten into me, I was just so mad when I saw you kissing Sid, he’s my mortal enemy and you’re supposed to be on my side, I’m your captain.” Mahaba kong sabi at nakagat ko pa ang labi ko nang hindi siya kumibo at tinitigan lamang ako.

“I know I don’t have a good reason to do that to you, I don’t even know why I did that too. I’m really, really sorry, I mean it. I got crazy for a second but it won’t ever happen again.” Dagdag ko pa pero lalong kumunot ang noo niya.

“You didn’t know that I was there to look for your sister?” He asked. I nodded.

“I didn’t know, huli na nang mabasa ko ang text ni Owen. I thought you were there for Sid, I was so confused.” Pag-amin ko at napailing naman siya. May sasabihin pa sana siya nang may mag-ingay sa hallway padaan sa kwarto niya. I looked at it and it was two nurses and probably his grandfather in a wheelchair. Bago pa man nila ako makita ay agad akong nahila ni Sulli papasok sa kwarto niya. He immediately closed the door.

“That doesn’t explain why you suddenly harrassed me.” Nagtayuan ang mga balahibo ko nang maramdaman ko ang mainit na hininga niya sa leeg ko. He’s shorter than me and he’s standing so close. Hindi pa man ako nakakapagsalita ay tumalikod na siya saakin at naglakad papunta sa may kama niya.

“Sitdown on the couch. I’ll just get dressed.” Seryoso niyang sabi. Napapalunok naman akong sumunod habang hindi maalis ang mga mata ko sakaniya.

I keep staring at his body kahit nakatalikod na siya saakin at naghahanap ng damit sa damitan niya. Despite the situation, I can’t help but notice how beautiful his body is. Napukaw nito ang interes ko.

Sinong hindi mapupukaw ’e pati katawan niya ay masyadong unrealistic para sa isang lalaki? His body is perfect. Slim but not too skinny. I’ve never find a man’s body look good when they don’t even have muscles but Sulli’s body was different. He doesn’t have muscles but it’s so good in the eye. Malaki ang bewang niya, his waist is slim and he has a toned stomach with not so defined abs. Napalunok pa ako kanina nang makita ko ang mapupula niyang mga utong. Naalala ko na sinipsip ko iyon kagabi hanggang sa magsugat na ito. Napangiwi ako. Sa sobrang galit ko kasi kagabi ay hindi ko na napagmasdan pa ang katawan niya.

Fuck, why did I even fucking do that? I’m not gay.

Lihim akong napamura because his body is so unrealistic and I’m actually fucking eyeing a guy right now. Napalunok pa akong muli nang makita ko ang mga tumutulong butil ng tubig mula sa mahaba niyang buhok, papunta sa makinis niyang likod hanggang sa balakang niya papunta sa umbok niyang pang-upo na natatakpan ng twalya lamang. Bigla siyang tumingin saakin kaya napunta sa mukha niya ang mga mata ko. Even his slightly parted red lips are so unrealistic for me right now!

“Close your eyes, I’m going to put on underwear.” Natauhan ako nang magsalita siya at tumalikod muli saakin. Hindi ako agad nakapagsalita dahil natuon ang atensyon ko sa umbok niyang pang-upo nang ilang segundo. Napapalunok kong pinikit ang mga mata ko.

Is this guy for real? He’s so perfect but also not. I mean, for the standard of men being perfect, hindi siya pasado, but he’s so good in the eye that you will think he’s actually perfect! I really hate his visuals. I also remember that when I was touching him last night, his skin was so soft and smooth.

Why is he so pretty when he’s a man?

---

Sulli’s

Kinuha ko ang first aid kit na nakapatong sa kama ko bago umupo sa couch kung saan naroon rin si Vesper at kanina pa ako pinagmamasdan. Is he so guilty that he actually came here to apologize? Well, he should be. Mukha akong nabugbog dahil sa mga pinaggagawa niya kagabi.

“So, are you only here to apologize?” I asked while opening the ointment for my lips. Tumalas nanaman ang mga mata ko sakaniya nang may maalala.

“Did you know that the cuts on my lips got bigger because you fucking bit it? What are you? A dog?” Inis kong tanong bago pa man siya makasagot sa una kong sinabi. Natigilan naman siya at namumula ang mga tengang umiwas ng tingin saakin. Asshole.

“I-I didn’t mean to do that. I’m sorry.” Paghingi niya ulit ng paumanhin. Kanina pa siya sorry nang sorry. Napatitig ako sakaniya. Owen told me about his complicated relationship with Sid. Surprisingly, hindi na ako galit sa ginawa niya because he said he didn’t know why I was there. He probably thinks I’m going to betray the team. Rinig ko ay team captain ng basketball sa Silang si Sid. Pero naiinis pa rin ako sakaniya at gusto ko siyang parusahan pero hindi ko alam kung paano. It’s also amusing to see him so down to earth while saying sorry, puro lang kasi kayabangan at pagiging maangas ang pinakita niya saakin simula nang makilala ko siya.

“Why did you kiss me?” Tanong ko habang nilalagyan ko ng ointment ang labi ko. Pagkatapos niyon ay nilagyan ko rin ang sa tagiliran ko. Hindi ko na pinansin ang mga pasa sa leeg at dibdib ko dahil sa pagsipsip niya roon. It will eventually fade away. This guy is like a fucking leech when sucking. Nag-init ang mukha ko nang maalala ko nanaman kung paano niya hinalikan ang katawan ko kagabi.

And he acts like he hates gays but he was fucking eating me up because of his crazy madness.

“I-I don’t know. I really don’t, I was just so pissed off.” Sagot niya kaya itinaas ko ang mga tingin ko sakaniya. He’s already looking at me and our eyes met.

“Are you sure you’re not into me?” Pabiro ko iyong sinabi at agad naman nanlaki ang mga mata niya.

“Kapal mo! Galit lang ako!” Gusto kong matawa nang bumalik na ang pagiging hambog niya. I know he won’t be into me, sa galit niya ba naman sakin na pinapakita.

“Wow, ako pa makapal ang mukha. Sino kaya satin ang hinalikan ako at gusto akong hubaran?” Pang-aasar ko pa at mas lalong lumaki ang mga mata niya pati na rin ang butas sa ilong niya. I almost laughed out loud.

“G-Galit nga ako diba?! If I was in my right mind I wouldn’t dare touch you!” Malakas niyang sigaw na ikinatawa ko. He’s unbelievable.

“Bakit ka sumisigaw? Hindi ko naman pinipilit na gusto mo yun ah? Nagtatanong lang ako.” Pagtataray ko sakaniya at binato ko ang supot ng patches na hawak ko sa dibdib niya. Tiningnan niya naman iyon nang nagtataka.

“Come near me, put it into the hickeys you put in my neck.” Utos ko at hindi siya nakagalaw kaya nagsalita muli ako. “I don’t want everyone seeing it, do you want them to see what you did to me?” Sabi ko pa kaya mabilis siyang gumalaw para pumunta sa harap ko. Inangat ko naman ang ulo ko para makita niya ang leeg ko. Matagal bago siya gumalaw at dinikit ang mga patches sa mga ginawa niyang pasa saakin. Natutuwa naman ako dahil nagiging masunurin siya bigla dahil sa kasalanan niya.

“Sa utong ko pa.” Biro ko at napapikit ako nang sumigaw siya sa mukha ko.

“H-Hindi na yun makikita!” Ang lakas talaga ng boses!

“Laway mo! Alis!” Sigaw ko pabalik at tinulak siya palayo saakin. Inis ko siyang pinagmasdan at hindi naman siya makatingin saakin. Napangiti ako nang may maisip na parusa para sakaniya.

“Do you want me to forgive you?” I asked. Tumingin naman siya saakin at tumango.

“Yeah, I know I did you wrong.” Guilty niyang sabi. Ngumisi naman ako bago sumandal sa kinauupuan ko.

“I’ll forgive you if you find me a condo that’s near our campus.” Kondisyon ko at naguguluhan naman siyang tumingin saakin.

“What? Why do you need a condo?” Tanong niya kaya napailing ako.

“Why are you asking questions? You did me wrong, makakabawi ka lang kung mahahanapan mo ako ng condo na malapit sa campus natin. Tapos ang usapan. Will you do it or not?” Taas kilay ko sakaniya at napatitig naman siya saakin bago napabuntong-hininga.

“Fine, I’ll find you a perfect condo.” Tagumpay akong napangiti sa sinabi niya.

“Good, you can leave now if you don’t have anything to say anymore.” Ani ko pero hindi siya gumalaw at parang may gusto pa siyang sabihin kaya nagsalita muli ako. “What?” Taka ko. Napatikhim naman siya bago nagsalita.

“Owen told me that you were there to look for my sister.” Panimula niya kaya tumango ako. “I-I don’t want you doing that again, if ever, please stay away from Sid as far as possible. He’s no good.” Napatango ako sa sinasabi niya.

“I know you have a complicated relationship with Sid, but labas ako roon. What I do will be none of your business, and my conscience will kill me if your sister were really hurt and I knew it but didn’t do anything.” Mahaba kong sabi at nakita ko nanaman ang mukha niyang asar. Pikon nanaman ang loko.

“Please, Sulli. ’Wag matigas ang ulo, now that Sid knows you’re from my team, he will do anything to mess with you.” Kunot-noo niyang sabi. He looks stressed again. Napatitig ako sa mukha niya and he looks genuinely frustrated. I sighed and nodded at him.

“Fine, but that doesn’t mean you can stop me if I want to save someone from his ass.” Pagmamatigas ko at lumapit naman ulit siya saakin. Hinakawan niya ang braso ko na may mga pasa galing sa pagkakahawak niya kahapon, itinaas niya iyon sa level ng mukha ko.

“I just held you a little tighter and your wrists are already like this, do you think you’re in any condition to save someone else?” Inis niyang tanong. Napangiwi ako at umiwas ng tingin sakaniya. I know I don’t have the strength, but I’ll be an asshole if I don’t do anything when someone needs me. Narinig ko siyang malakas na napabuntong-hininga.

“I’ll give you my number, text me whenever you’re in danger or if ever Sid and his friends comes to you.” Seryoso niyang sabi kaya ibinalik ko ang tingin ko sakaniya.

“Wow, what are you, my hero?” Biro ko at natawa ako nang makita ko ang pikon niyang mukha.

“Magpasalamat ka na lang na may gana pa akong gawin to sayo ah.” Naiinis niyang sabi bago kinuha ang selpon ko para i-type ang number niya. Tinext niya iyon para malaman niya rin ang number ko.

“Edi thank you, master.” Napapairap kong sabi sa kayabangan niya. Mas lalo siyang nainis saakin na lihim kong ikinatawa.

He has a foul mouth and always want to pick a fight with me but he’s surprisingly reasonable most of the times. Minus the incident that happened last night tho, he was a total asshole.

SEDUCTIVE RIVALRY

Rivalry 7

Vesper’s

“Ang alat mo today, bro. May nangyari?” Tanong ni Simon habang nag w-warm up kami para sa early practice. Inis ko lamang siyang tiningnan at naibalik ko ang tingin kay Elias at Sulli na kanina pa nagbibiruan. Kanina pa sila nagtatawanan at naiinis ako kakatingin sakanila.

“Ano pala nangyari kay Sulli? Ang payat na nga nung tao, may bumalak pa bumangas? Pambihira.” Tumingin ako kay Julian nang sabihin niya iyon. Napangiwi ako at naalala ang nangyari, ang ginawa ko. Minu-minuto akong nagsisisi kapag nakikita ko si Sulli. Ang dami niyang patches sa leeg at namumula pa rin ang labi niya. All of the team were shock and worried about his state, but he just told them that he had an accident. Halata na ayaw niyang pag-usapan kaya hindi na makatanong ang mga kaibigan ko.

“Oo nga e, halatang-halata pa naman sa balat niya ang mga pasa.” Dagdag pa ni Theo.

“Nag-aalala nga si Elias, nakita niya raw kasi na pati sa tagiliran ay may malaking pasa si Sulli.” Kunot-noo akong tumingin kay Simon nang sabihin niya iyon.

“Paano niya naman nakita yun?” Tanong ko dahil natatakpan ng damit ang tagiliran ni Sulli.

“Pinasok niya kasi kanina sa locker room, we all got worried because he looked so beaten up.” Madramang sabi ni Theo.

“Loko, diba bawal pumasok kapag nasa loob siya? Tell Elias not to do it again, kahit sino sainyo.” Seryoso kong sabi. Nagtataka naman silang tumango na lang. Nakagat ko ang labi ko sa inis nang maalala na hinuhubad niya ang lahat kapag nasa locker room siya.

Did Elias saw him naked that’s why he saw the bruise on his waist? Mas lalo akong nawala sa hulog sa isiping iyon.

“But even tho he doesn’t look okay, he’s so good at playing basketball. It’s like he’s born to play.” Puri pa sakaniya ni Theo. Napatango naman sila at lihim rin akong um-agree. He’s really a star player, wala man sa hubog ng katawan niya pero nakikipagsabayan siya saamin ng lakas at tibay. Like what he said, he’s sturdy.

---

Sulli’s

“That was good.” Elias and I high fived when the time for practice ended. Pare-pareho kaming pawis ngayon at hingal pero nakangiti kami ni Elias dahil may usapan kami na kung sino ang pinaka maraming puntos at rebound ay ililibre ng isa. I won but he’s all smile.

“I want the burger outside the campus, I heard you need to get in line to get it.” Hingal kong sabi bago umupo sa bleachers at uminom sa baon kong tubig. Sumunod naman siya saakin.

“Sure, ’yun lang ba?” Mayabang niyang sabi kaya nginisihan ko siya.

“Yeah, next time, I’ll have you buy me a whole restaurant.” Biro ko at ginulo niya ang buhok ko.

“I won’t lose to you next time.” Natawa ako sa sinabi niya. It’s actually a nonsense bet since both of us have different position in basketball, but it’s fun and we’re both bored. Iniiwasan ko rin na tanungin nang tanungin niya ako about sa mga pasa ko. Speaking of my bruises, kanina pa masama ang tingin saakin ni Vesper.

Ano nanaman kaya ang tumatakbo sa utak n’on?

Nauna akong pumasok sa locker room at naligo nang mabilis bago nagbihis. Habang sinusuot ko ang mga piercing ko ay tumunog ang selpon kong nasa loob na ng bulsa ng suot kong uniform. Kinuha ko iyon at napabuntong-hininga nang makita kung saan galing ang text. May kasama iyong location ng isang coffee shop.

From: Seba

Let’s talk, I’ll meet you at this shop tonight. Come or tito Stevan will know what’s going on. I’ll be waiting for you, my Sulli.

Napatitig ako sa huli niyang sinabi.

My Sulli…

“How are you so good at pretending, Seba? It hurts.” Bumigat bigla ang dibdib ko. Napapalunok kong ibinalik sa bulsa ko ang selpon at nagmamadaling lumabas ng locker room. Nagsipasukan naman sila pero naiwan si Vesper na hinila ako sa gilid. Hinayaan ko siya dahil nanghihina pa ako sa text ni Sebastian.

“Come with me tonight, it’s about your condo.” Seryoso niyang sabi. Napakamot ako sa leeg ko bago napabuntong-hiningang tumango.

“Can we meet at 8? I have something to do.” Pakiusap ko at kunot-noo naman siyang tumitig saakin bago tumango. Napatango rin ako bago tumalikod sakaniya.

Pumasok ako sa klase nang wala sa hulog. Kahit na dumating na si Elias ay hindi kami nagkausap nang maayos. The memories of that one incident with Sebastian kept replaying in my head.

It’s more hurtful than cheating on me. He really knows how to break my heart.

---

Vesper’s

I kept glancing at the entrance of the shop Sulli said he will be. Antayin ko daw siyang lumabas roon. Halos isang oras na ako rito pero hindi ako pwedeng magalit sakaniya dahil sabi niya ay pumunta ako ng 8 pm pero 7 pm pa lang ay nandito na ako. Napakamot ako sa ulo ko at naiinis sa sarili. What am I even doing.

Ilang minuto pa ako naghintay nang makita ko na siyang lumabas ngunit parang matamlay siya. Kanina pa siya ganoon simula kaninang umaga pagkatapos ng practice namin. Hindi nga siya nag attend ng practice kaninang hapon and I’m going to lecture him about that, but seems like something is really wrong with him.

Lumingon-lingon siya hanggang sa nakita niya ang kotse ko. Lumakad siya papunta sa kung nasaan ako nakaparada at agad kong binuksan ang pinto ng kotse. Matamlay pa rin siyang umupo sa harap, katabi ko. Lumukob agad sa ilong ko ang mabango niyang amoy na agad kumalat sa loob ng kotse.

“Let’s go.” Maikli niyang sabi pero hindi pa rin siya tumitingin saakin kaya nagsalita ako.

“What’s wrong? May nangyari ba?” Tanong ko kahit na ang gusto kong tanungin ay kung sino siya nakipagkita ngunit hindi ko na kailangan pa iyon tanungin nang makita kong lumabas ang isang matangkad na lalaki mula sa shop kung saan galing si Sulli. Kahit naka cap ito ay nakita kong ito iyong artistang ex ni Sulli.

Kaya ba siya matamlay? Tsk.

“You met with your cheating ex? And now you look like that?” Hindi ko nanaman napigilan ang inis kong unresonable. Hindi siya kumibo nang ilang segundo bago mahinang natawa at tumingin saakin.

“Just drive to where we are going.” Ngiti niya bago muling tumulala sa kawalan. I almost rolled my eyes but I couldn’t help but stare at him. If this is a normal day, he would talk back to me with something more smarter. Whenever he’s annoyed by my remarks, he would always reply something that will annoy me so much. But he doesn’t seem really okay right now.

Lihim akong napailing at minaneho na ang kotse ko. Dineretso ko iyon sa condominium building kung nasaan rin ang condo ko. There’s no more perfect place for a condo than the building I am staying from time to time. I’ll give it to him since palagi naman akong umuuwi sa bahay dahil kay Marga. Malapit lang iyon sa University katulad ng gusto niya, malawak at safe.

I already got it cleaned and it looks like no one had already used it. I’m sure he will like it and we can finally get even from what I did to him.

Hanggang sa makarating kami sa condominium building at sa dati kong flat kung saan siya pwedeng tumira ay wala pa ring imik si Sulli. Sa hindi ko malamang dahilan ay nalulunod ako sa katahimikan dahil sa ginagawa niya. Parang hindi ako makahinga.

“What do you think?” Binasag ko ang katahimikan. Hindi naman siya agad umimik at pinalibot ang mga mata niya sa kabuoan ng condo. Maya-maya ay natuon ang mga mata niya sa malaking higaan sa may right side at lumapit siya roon bago umupo. All of his actions seems to slowdown in my eyes. Is he purposely being slow or am I just imagining it?

“I’ll take it. It’s perfect.” Sabi niya at napapahangos na tumingin saakin. “I know I said I’ll forgive you once you find me a condo, but can I request one last favor?” Sinabi niya iyon habang may maliit na pekeng ngiti sa mga labi niya.

“What is it?” I didn’t know why I was so quick to ask him back.

“Drink with me tonight, I just really need a fucking stress release.” Mahina niya pang tawa ngunit kahit anong tago niya sa kalungkutan niya ay hindi iyon kaya ng mga patawa-tawa at mga ngiti niya. It’s not reaching his seductive eyes.

“Okay, wait here. I’ll buy some alcohol and snacks.” Ani ko at mabilis na lumabas. There’s a convenience store right in front of this building kaya madali akong nakabili. Bumili na rin ako ng disposable cups dahil wala pang masyadong kagamit-gamit sa flat na iyon dahil pinaalis ko halos lahat para magmukhang bago.

Mabilis akong bumalik sa building at bago pa makapasok sa pinto ng flat ay napahinto ako.

What the hell am I in a hurry for? Napalunok ako at muling nainis sa sarili. I really hate Sulli, he’s making me do things I haven’t done before. Sa isiping iyon ay pumasok ako sa condo at nasa ganoong posisyon pa rin siya. Inayos ko ang inumin namin at agad naman siyang nagsimula na ikinailing ko.

Is he that heartbroken because of that celebrity? He’s not even that handsome for me. Sulli has a bad taste.

Tahimik ko siyang sinabayan at hindi na rin ako nagsalita dahil mukhang kailangan niya lang ng kasama. And I don’t want to seem like I want to talk to him so bad. No way. I’m only here out of courtesy.

“Alcohol taste so good when your heart is in pain.” Napalingon ako sakaniya habang sinasabi niya iyon. Ibinaba ko ang iniinom kong alak at hindi ko napigilang magsalita kahit na alam kong nasasabi niya iyon dahil may tama na siya. Ginagawa niya kasing tubig ang alak.

“You know, Sulli. Your heart should be angry, not in pain, he cheated on you.” Payo ko at natatawa naman siyang tumingin saakin gamit ang mapupungay niyang mata. This time, his smile was so wide that I almost mistook it as genuine if not for his teary eyes.

“He didn’t cheat. I knew that even from the start.” Sabi niya habang nakatingin saakin.

“He did much worst than that.” Tuluyang tumulo ang ilang butil ng luha sa mga mata niya at hindi ko alam ang mararamdaman at gagawin ko. Napatitig lamang ako sakaniya.

“He made me believe that he loved me from the very beginning, ’till now, he’s still pretending.” He chuckled with his eyes streaming down a couple of tears before drinking again.

“What do you mean?” I asked out of curiosity. Napatitig naman siya sa iniinom niya bago nagsalita.

“I heard him talking to my brother, back in Canada, his exact words that broke my heart were, ’ I wasted my life pretending to love Sulli, just so I can have your family’s support. But my heart will always want you, Sevan. You’re the only one I long for.’ ” Sinabi niya iyon habang natatawa hanggang sa napahikbi siya.

“It’s drilled in my head, Vesper. Seba’s love wasn’t real, he always wanted to be with my younger brother.” Pinunasan niya ang mga luha niya at hindi pa rin ako nakakibo. For the first time in my life, my heart tightened because of someone’s pain.

“He’s an asshole. Why didn’t you beat them up?” Galit kong tanong. Natatawa naman siyang tumingin saakin kahit may mga luha pa ang mga mata niya.

“Both of them don’t even know that I heard that. And my brother is innocent, he’s always pushing him away, but Seba is always following wherever he goes. Kaya nga pareho silang naging artista rito ’e, Seba really loves my brother.” Napailing ako sa sinasabi niya.

“Your brother didn’t tell you about what that bastard said?” Tanong ko at tumungga siya ng alak bago ako sinagot.

“Sevan told me to drop him off, but he didn’t tell me why exactly, he doesn’t want to hurt me. But he made reasons for me to break up with Seba, siya ang may pakana ng mga edited pictures na ipinadala saakin sa Canada. It was a picture of Sebastian cheating on me with some random woman.” Mas lalo akong nainis. Why can’t his brother just straight up tell him about it?

“They’re both pissing me off.” Hindi ko napigilang sabi at natawa siya.

“You’re so grumpy, don’t worry, I’m only crying because I’m sad that no one really loves me. I don’t even know if I really loved Sebastian either.” Bigla niyang sabi kaya napakunot-noo ako.

“What? Are you so drunk?” Taas-kilay ko dahil halata naman na heartbroken siya. Umiling siya.

“No way, I’m still sober. I know I’m sharing my life dramas with my rival right now.” Halatang nagbibiro siya pero mas lalo kong naitaas ang kilay ko sa huli niyang sinabi.

“Your rival? When did I become your rival?” Tanong ko at nabigla ako nang ilapit niya saakin ang mukha niya. Tinitigan niya ang mga mata ko bago napangiti.

“The moment you opened your mouth when we first met, you always wanted to have a fight with me. You’re my unwanted rival. But I will never back down to your annoying mouth.” Napakurap-kurap ako at agad na napapikit nang bigla niyang ibangga ang noo niya sa noo ko. Medyo malakas iyon kaya masakit.

“Shit! Sulli!” Saway ko pero tumawa lang siya bago bumalik sa posisyon niya kanina. Muli siyang napabuntong-hininga at tumungga sa baso niyang puno ng alak.

“I was supposed to be an only child, Ves. Sevan is.. a bastard. Anak siya sa labas, but I never treated him that way, nor did that make us hate each other. Did you know why I became Sebastian’s boyfriend even when I didn’t really like him at first?” Nag kwento nanaman siya. Seriously, I don’t know if he’s drunk or what. But I’m so invested.

“Why?” And I don’t know why I am so invested in his story.

“Because his fake love felt so real, I actually thought that someone could love me like that. That someone like me can be treasured like that. Love was foreign to me, not even my family made me familiar with it. I started seeking that kind of love Seba was giving me, even knowing that I can never give it back. Just my luck that it was all fake, or I’m doomed.” Hindi ko pa rin maintindihan ang gusto niyang sabihin. So did he love that jerk or not? Did they love each other? His story is so complicated, even with his family.

“You said he wants your family support, why?” Tanong ko. Lumagok muna siya ng alak bago sumagot. I tsked. Even his way of drinking is so sophisticated, halatang anak mayaman talaga.

“He’s an orphan, he was our youngest helper. But that changed because he became my friend, I never had a friend but him. All of his wealth, his good backgrounds, the reason why he graduated from a huge University, it was because of my family. He could only get that by staying with me, the only heir of my family. Malas niya lang, nakilala niya ang kapatid ko at sakaniya siya nahulog. My controlling father doesn’t favor Sevan.” Pinakatitigan ko siya at pinagmasdan ko ang mga mata niya habang nagk-kwento. He seems lost and hurt, but not because of what he’s saying.

“If you didn’t love him, why do you look so heartbroken?” Sa dami ng sinabi niya, parang wala pa rin akong maintindihan.

“Are you not listening? I told you, I love the love Sebastian gave me, but I couldn’t love him back as a person. In short, isa akong taong hindi nakaranas ng pagmamahal kahit kanino kaya nang pakitaan niya ako kung ano iyon ay agad akong kumagat. Until now, I crave for that fucking nonsense. That’s why my heart is broken, because I just realized that no one will really fucking love me genuinely.” Nag-iba ang emosyon sa mata niya at napalitan iyon ng inis.

“I know I don’t have the right to crave genuine love when I don’t even know what is it, but fuck, Sebastian is really a good actor, it’s really his talent since day one. That love-pretend he made me feel, it was so fucking good. If someone will make me feel that again even if it’s also fake, I’ll still cherish it.” All of what he said sink into my head. He’s hopeless. He’s just like my sister, craving for something nonexistent. Craving for something that was never given to them since they were a child. It’s desperation for something they never felt and thinks that life is all about that. And if someone gives them what they crave for, they will think of that person as their world. Even if they know that it’s all a lie.

Ganon ang sitwasyon ni Marga kay Sid.

“You’re desperate.” Seryoso kong sabi. Tumango siya.

“The hell I am, but I’m trying to change it. That’s why I’m here in the Philippines, I want to learn about life that I didn’t have when I was in Canada.” He paused and looked at me. “I’m starting to think that love is the most bullshit nonsense in this world, Ves.” Seryoso niyang sabi. I licked my lips and nodded at him.

“You should, I will really become your unwanted rival if you keep craving for something stupid. Live your life like a normal person, and if I really need to become your unwanted rival for you to enjoy this life, I will.” Seryoso kong sabi. I don’t want him to become like my sister. Natawa siya sa sinabi ko at namumungay ang mga matang inalayo ang tingin saakin.

“I do enjoy annoying you back, Vesper Magnus. Thank you for listening to me tonight.” Mahina niyang sabi bago napasandal sa gilid ng kama. Ipinatong niya ang ulo niya roon. Nakaupo kasi kami sa lapag sa may paanan ng kama. His eyes closed and his face showed calmness.

He’s now asleep.

SEDUCTIVE RIVALRY

A/N: Rivalry o

kabaklaan

? Ems

Rivalry 8

Sulli’s

“Are you sure you don’t want to come?” Tanong ko kay Owen na tinutulungan akong ayusin ang mga dadalhin kong gamit sa bago kong condo. Umiling naman siya. Owen is already healed, nakakalakad na siya at pwede na pumasok sa school, but he chose not to go today so he can help me pack and move my things.

“Lola will be devastated, she even wants you to stay.” Rason niya at napatango-tango naman ako.

“I can’t, you know my issues with my father and Seba.” Naalala ko ang ginawa ko kagabi. Sure I was drunk, but I knew that I was being so dramatic and sharing too much to Vesper. I was so emotional that I couldn’t even control my own mouth. Mabuti na lang at parang wala naman pakialam ang isang yun.

“How about Seba? What did he say about you doing this?” Tanong niya. Napangiwi ako.

“I met him last night, I ended things with him for good. But you know him, he’s still persistent. I just don’t know why he has to try so hard when he can already live on his own. He’s already successful.” Alam ni Owen kung bakit tinapos ko ang namamagitan saamin ni Seba.

“I can’t think of a reason either, maybe he just wants to be a jerk for a lifetime.” Biro niya na ikinatawa ko. Naalala ko ang kapatid ko. Kamusta na kaya si Sevan? I’m sure Sebastian is also harassing him everyday, trying to win him. But my brother is too caring towards me to even date someone that already had a thing with me. I hope he lives a life he also wants. Ngayong pareho na kami onti-onting nakakawala sa Papa.

Now that I’m starting to have a life here in the Philippines, I will do anything not to go back to that hell hole.

---

PUmasok ako sa loob ng gymnasium nang nakasuot na ng jersey. Maaga pa at ako pa lamang ang tao rito. Medyo madilim pa sa labas pero inagahan kong pumasok dahil sobrang aga ko nagising. Nakalipat na ako ng condo kaya’t hindi na rin problema saakin ang layo ng school. Walking distance na lang iyon.

Naglakad ako papasok sa locker room habang dala-dala ang bag ko. I don’t need to change anymore but I feel like coming inside to sit around. Pagkapasok ko pa lang ay nakita ko ang tambak na mga towels sa dulo ng mga locker. It was probably delivered yesterday when I didn’t attend school. Umupo ako sa bench at binuksan ang selpon ko para maglibang habang hinihintay ang mga teammates ko.

Maya-maya ay tinamaan ako ng antok at sakit sa batok dahil walang sandalan ang bench sa gitna ng mga locker. I blew a loud breath and looked at the time. It’s only 3:30, my teammates will arrive at 4:30. I should go get a nap.

Tumayo ako at tiningnan ang mga nakatambak na towel. Nakabalot iyon sa itim na plastic na parang garbage bag pa. I want to lay down because my nape is aching. Ganon nga ang ginawa ko, humiga ako sa tambak na mga towel at komportable akong inunat ang sarili doon. Ginawa ko pang kumot ang malaki kong jersey jacket. Ang lambot ng mga towel at garbage bag kaya’t agad akong nakatulog.

Hindi ko alam kung ilang minuto na akong tulog nang magising ako dahil may nag-i-ingay na sa loob ng locker room. Agad kong iminulat ang mga mata ko at napatitig sa lalaking naka topless sa harap ng locker niya.

Fuck. Hindi ko ba nailagay sa sign na occupied ang locker room? I probably forgot.

Napakurap-kurap ako kay Vesper na mukhang may hinahanap sa locker niya. Hindi ako gumalaw at hindi ako gumawa ng ingay. It’s not that I didn’t want to get notice, hindi lamang ako nakagalaw at nakakapagsalita dahil nakatulala ako ngayon sa katawan niya.

He looks.. buffed. Mukhang katatapos niya lang maligo, kanina pa ata siya narito sa locker room. Our locker room have shower because we shower after our practice. Mukhang dito na siya naligo at ngayon ay nagbibihis siya. Napalunok ako nang makita ang ilang butil ng tubig na tumutulo sa dibdib niya pababa sa… puson niyang may buhok!

Nakatapis lamang siya ng twalya at kumalabog ang dibdib ko nang makuha niya na ang hinahanap niya sa loob ng locker.

“Finally got you.” He whispered when he pulled out a white boxer brief. Hindi pa rin ako nakagalaw nang isuot niya iyon at napapikit ako nang tanggalin niya ang twalya niya at tanging boxer na lamang ang saplot niya. Muli akong napalunok pero hindi ko napigilang imulat muli ang mga mata ko.

Shit. Vesper is now standing so tall in front of his locker while drying his wet hair. Nakatingin pa siya sa salamin sa loob ng locker niya at talagang gwapo ang loko, pero ang mga mata ko ay hindi nakatutok ngayon sa mukha niya kundi sa umbok sa harapan niya.

Because he was only wearing tight boxer briefs, his crotch is bulging and while he’s drying his hair, gumagalaw iyon kasabay ng mga braso niyang malalaki ang masel. Nailayo ko roon ang mata ko sa sobrang hiya ngunit napansin kong muli ang madami niyang abs sa tiyan. Nag-init ata ang buong mukha ko. Why didn’t I notice that he’s so sexy before? Well, hindi iyon imposible dahil varsity player siya, but I didn’t notice it before because I was so annoyed by his attitude towards me.

Mas lalo pa akong napatitig at napapalunok sa nakausling mga buhok sa puson niya. Even his V line is showing. I don’t even want to say it, but he’s undeniably fucking hot. Siguro kung itinitikom niya lang ang bibig niya ay magugustuhan ko siya. I licked my lips when I even stared at his leg muscles. He’s really an athlete, alright.

Halos gusto kong batukan ang sarili ko nang ma-realize ang ginagawa. Am I checking him out? Seriously? Him? I must be losing my mind.

“Can you please wear more clothes.” Sa wakas ay nahanap ko rin ang boses ko. Gulat na gulat namang lumingon saakin si Vesper na nanlalaki pa ang mga mata.

“What the hell?!” Sigaw niya bago nagmamadaling kumuha ng jersey short at nagkandaugagang suotin iyon sa harap ko. Hindi ko napigilang matawa. His sexiness just disappeared out of thin air. He’s always so embarrassed and whiny when I’m around, why is that?

“Sinisilipan mo ba ako?!” Muli niyang sigaw kaya napapikit ako. Ang lakas talaga ng boses ng lalaking ’to. Parang laging naka megaphone.

“Yeah, you look so good.” Asar ko. Mas lalong lumaki ang mga butas ng ilong niya pati na rin ang mga mata niya. Malakas akong natawa bago lumapit sakaniya. Napaatras naman siya.

“Why do you always look terrified when I’m around? Scared that I’ll fantasize over you?” Ngisi ko habang nanlalaki pa rin ang mga mata niyang nakatingin saakin. I gave him a wide smile before caressing his abs. Naramdaman ko agad ang katigasan niyon. Halos mapatalon naman siya paatras saakin.

“Sulli! Leave!” Parang bata niyang sigaw. Hindi ko napigilan ang nang-aasar kong tawa. Seriously, I find it so funny and cute when he do this.

“C’mon, we’re both men. You already saw me almost naked, you even had my nipples inside your mouth.” Dagdag pang-aasar ko at nakita ko ang pamumula ng buong katawan niya lalong-lalo na ang mga tenga at mukha niya. Nakagat ko ang labi at mas lalong lumapit sakaniya. He’s so cute when embarrassed.

“Captain, are you afraid of me? Are you scared that I might fantasize about your body at night?” I licked my lips in front of him and stared at his eyes who’s also looking at me with a glint I’m not familiar with. Well, I’m actually curious why does he always act like this when I’m around.

“Get. Out. Sullivan. I’m not kidding.” Gigil niyang utos kaya napairap ako. He’s so uptight.

“You are no fun, enjoy yourself then.” Tinapik ko pa ang abs niya na ikina-igtad niya habang natatawa akong lumabas ng locker room. Ang sarap niyang asarin. Saktong paglabas ko ay isa-isa nang nagsidatingan ang mga kasamahan namin. Natuwa pa ako nang makita kong pumasok si Elias na kasama si Owen.

“Hey.” Bati ko sakaniya at tinanguan niya naman ako bago sila tumabi saakin.

“Anong balak mo, Ow? Hindi ka na ba talaga pwedeng maglaro?” Tanong ni Elias sa nanghihinayang na boses. Napabuntong-hininga si Owen.

“Yeah, that’s what the doctor told me. But it’s alright, I want to focus on my studies. Pero sasamahan ko pa rin kayo, the coach gave me permission to still be part of the team as a team manager.” Natuwa kaming pareho ni Elias sa sinabi niya.

“Really? That’s perfect.” I said before we all heard the coach whistle. Nagsilapitan kaming lahat sakaniya ngunit nakuha ng lalaking kalalabas lang sa locker room ang atensyon ko. I couldn’t help but smile when I saw Vesper walking towards us. I can still remember how he looked earlier, both the hot him and the embarrassed him. He never fails to amuse me in a weird way.

---

Vesper’s

“How about this, Ves? Do you think it will fit our concept?” Tiningnan ko ang sinasabi ni Anjo. We are currently brainstorming for our project at nandito kami ngayon sa gilid ng quadrangle sa ilalim ng puno. Tanghaling tapat pero presko ang hangin kaya dito namin napiling tumambay ng kagrupo ko sa project.

“Add a little more greenery to it, I think it will be perfect.” Suggest ko bago tumingin sa ginagawa ni Lea na draft. I was looking from her shoulders when three people walked in front us.

“Hi, Captain. Looking good.” Naiangat ko ang ulo nang marinig ko ang boses na iyon. It was Sulli with Elias and Owen. The three of them are looking at me with smiles on their faces but Sulli’s smile was different, he was teasing me again. Kanina pa siyang umaga. I don’t know what’s gotten into him but he’s so good at getting into my nerves.

Sinunod ko sila ng tingin at nakita kong umupo sila sa kabilang puno sa silong nito. They have foods on their hands so they’re probably going to have their lunch in there. Kunot-noo kong tinitigan si Sulli na patawa-tawa habang kausap ang dalawa.

That guy, I’m sure he’s taking me as a joke. Kahit nung nagpa-practice na kami ay sinasadya niyang lumapit saakin at idikit saakin ang katawan niya. And I’m too conscious about it that I always stumble on my own feet. He’s doing it on purpose but I don’t know why.

“That new guy looks cute, what’s his name?” Lea suddenly asked that pulled me to my senses. I looked at her and she was asking me. Wala naman akong balak ibuka ang bibig ko para sabihin sakaniya ang pangalan ni Sulli.

“Huh? That’s a guy? I thought that was a girl.” Si Anjo na nakatanaw na rin kila Sulli.

“He’s a guy, he’s my new small forward.” Sabat ko sakanila at parang namangha pa sila. Hindi siguro makapaniwala dahil mukhang binabae ang isang yun. Kaya sinasabihan ko siya mag gym ’e.

“You know what, he’s really familiar. Is he from Canada?” Biglang sumawsaw saamin si Dioh, isa sa mga nerd sa klase namin. Tumango ako at nagtaka paano niya nalaman.

“So he’s really that guy? Wow, I can’t believe he’s here.” Sabi niya at kinuha ang iPad na hawak niya. He rummage something through it. Inantay lang naman namin siya hanggang sa ihinarap niya saamin ang malaki niyang iPad. Sumingkit pa ang mata ko dahil sa lakas ng brightness niya pero agad na luminaw ang paningin ko nang makita ko ang nasa iPad niya.

“I’m really a fan of basketball and my cousin is a player in Canada.” Ani pa ni Dioh ngunit nakatitig na lamang ako sa ipinapakita niya.

It was a poster for an event, and there’s a group of men in it pero ang nasa center ay isang lalaking mahaba ang buhok, may bangs, probably wearing light make up.. and he’s wearing a short skirt that shows part of his slender legs. Natatakpan ang tuhod niya dahil sa mahaba niyang medyas at may hawak siyang bola sa nakaangat niyang kamay habang may nakaakbay sakaniyang matangkad na lalaki na sobrang laki ng ngiti. Kahit siya ay abot mata ang mga ngiti at kitang-kita ang dalawang dimples niya.

It was Sulli.

SEDUCTIVE RIVALRY

Rivalry 9

Sulli’s

“HAHAHAHAHA! You look so good there, Sul.” Owen laughed and I also chuckled looking at the poster Vesper was showing us. Bigla na lang siyang lumapit saamin habang nag l-lunch kami at parang galit pang ipinakita saakin ang hawak niyang iPad at nagtanong kung ako nga iyon.

“Yeah, that’s me. It was an event at my former school.” Paliwanag ko.

“Why are you wearing a skirt?” Tanong pa ng lokong Vesper. I looked at his face and he looked smug and proud as usual. Parang pumunta pa siya rito dahil kailangan na kailangan niya ang paliwanag ko. I really can’t understand this guy. His out of control persistency and curiosity is so funny to me.

“Yeah, why are you wearing a skirt?” Natatawa pang tanong ni Owen. Napailing ako sakaniya. Tawang-tawa ang loko. Pati si Elias ay napapangiti saamin habang tinitingnan pa rin ang hawak na iPad ni Vesper.

“My former team got in trouble that time, and as punishment, the school made us model for our event that has something to do with diversity. They made me wear a skirt because of the theme.” Napangiti ako nang maalala ko nanaman ang araw na iyon. Nagrambol kasi ang buong team dahil sakin, they were bullying me at first because of how I look so I made rumors about them stabbing each other’s back at ang ending, nagsuntukan sila lahat at nang mapatawag sa dean’s office ay saakin pa rin napunta ang sisi. That’s why I was the one who wore the skirt, plus I look like a girl anyway. First year college ako noon and that was the event that made our team stronger and closer to each other. God, I miss them. But I surely don’t miss the ferocious bangs I had.

“Was this a dream come true to you? Wearing female clothes? You look like you don’t belong in this group picture.” Agad akong napairap nang umiral nanaman ang bibig ni Vesper.

“What are you saying, Ves?” Owen was stunned by his sudden comment but I laughed it off.

“Yeah. Actually, I was also wearing panties under that skirt. My whole team was cheering me on because I looked sexy. Do you want to see a picture?” Umakto akong may kukunin sa bag ko at mas mabilis pa sa alas kwatrong lumayas sa harapan ko si Vesper.

“W-Wag na! Bwesit!” Pare-pareho kaming natawang tatlo nang mabilis siyang bumalik sa mga kasama niya kanina. Sira talaga ulo ng lalaking yun. Palagi akong pinapatawa. Imbes na mainis ako sakaniya, natatawa na lang talaga ako.

“Why is Vesper acting like that?” Nagtataka ngunit natatawang tanong ni Owen.

“Beats me, why is your best friend acting like that?” Balik tanong ko sakaniya at nagkibit-balikat siya.

“I don’t know, he’s lowkey a bully but he doesn’t get flustered like that.” Pareho kaming napailing.

“He’s been acting weird around Sulli since he arrived. Maybe he likes you.” Biglang sabi ni Elias kaya napaungot ako.

“Likes me? He always says shitty shits to me.” Irap ko at pareho lamang silang natawa bago namin pinagpatuloy ang kinakain naming lunch. Habang ngumunguya ako ay napatingin ako kay Vesper na nakatalikod na sa pwesto namin ngayon.

No way that guy will like me. He hates gays.

Natigilan ako sa pagnguya nang maalala ko ang nangyari noong isang araw.

But I still don’t know why he kissed me and tried to undress me. Is he closeted gay or just in denial? Hmm..

---

Vesper’s

Bumaba ako sa kotse ko at tinanaw ang bintana ng apartment ni Elias. He invited me for a marathon movie earlier. Wala naman akong gagawin at pumunta si Marga kay Papa kaya hindi ko siya kailangan bantayan.

Pumasok ako sa apartment ni Elias nang walang katok-katok. Mag-isa lang kasi siya rito at hindi naman nag l-lock ang loko. The team is always frequent here, madalas ay dito talaga kami mag hang out.

“Elia— Oh, Owe, you’re here.” Napangiti ako nang makita ko si Owen na nakatutok na sa malaking TV sa sala at mukhang naghahanap ng movie. Ngumiti siya saakin kaya umupo ako sa tabi niya.

“Yeah, Elias invited me too.” Sabi niya bago ako inabutan ng baso. I looked at the center tables in front of us at may alak at popcorn doon. Napailing ako.

“The elimination round will start next week, I told all of you no alcohol or even smoking.” I couldn’t help but say. Isang linggo na lang kasi ay start na ng totoong laro namin for the finals. Our university can’t lose, not when I’m the captain. Natatawang tumingin saakin si Owen.

“C’mon, I’m not playing for NQUL anymore.” NQUL stands for National Quintet University League where our University is part of the five prominent Universities that compete for the winning throne. After that, we can be part of the International Collegiate Athletic Association or ICAA and that’s what I am aiming for, to go international.

“Tell that to Elias and Sulli.” Sabi pa niya nang bitawan ko ang alak na ibinigay niya.

“What, Sulli is also here?” Tanong ko. Bago pa man siya makasagot ay may lumabas na dalawang tao mula sa kusina.

“Hi, Captain.” I looked at Sulli who’s already smiling at me while he’s holding a bowl of fruits. Nakaakbay pa sakaniya si Elias na tumango rin saakin. Napakunot-noo ako sakanila. Why are they so close to each other?

“Why is Elias so comfortable around someone like him? He’s gay.” Komento ko na si Owen lamang ang nakarinig. Mukhang hindi niya iyon nagustohan.

“Ves, tinitiis ko kapag may mga komento ka sa mga babaeng nakakalandian ko, but don’t do it with Sulli. He’s my cousin, he’s a good guy. There’s nothing wrong with him being gay. It’s not a disease.” Seryoso niyang sabi at ako naman ang nabigla dahil never siyang naging ganito kaseryoso pagdating saakin. I know I’m also being a jerk to Sulli, he’s just always making my chest tighten for some reason and I don’t want that. I tend to say something awful to mend my tightening chest. He’s always making me jumpy.

“Okay, chill. I’m just saying, it doesn’t look good that Elias is so close to him when he’s straight.“ Ani ko pa at umiling lang siya saakin.

“He’s Elias’ friend, magkaklase sila.” Depensa niya pa at hindi na ako umimik pa dahil baka mapikon na siya saakin.

“What movie did you pick?” Tanong ni Sulli nang makalapit siya saamin. Umupo siya malapit saakin, sa tabi ni Owen. Nasa pang isahang sofa ako sa gilid at magkatabi naman silang tatlo sa mahabang sofa sa gitna. Magkakalapit lang ang upuan. I looked at what he was wearing and he’s only wearing a white shirt and a short pajama. Nakatali pa ang mahaba niyang buhok. Feel at home na feel at home. Mukhang sobrang close na talaga silang dalawa.

“Knock Knock. It’s a thriller movie and Keanu Reeves is the protagonist.” Owen said and my eyes widened because I know that movie. It has a rough bed scene. Threesome!

Hindi ako nakaimik nang magsimula na ang movie. Nakagat ko na lang ang labi ko dahil ayaw ko naman sabihin sakanila na wag na iyon ang panuorin dahil sa sex scene na naroon. I will sound like a little girl.

“You want some?” Nabigla pa ako nang inalok ako ni Sulli ng prutas. Tumingin ako sa bowl na inilalapit niya saakin at hindi ako nagdalawang isip na kumuha ng ilang grapes dahil paborito ko iyon. Nang makakuha na ako ay ilang minuto ko pa siyang pinagmasdan bago ako natauhan at nanuod na rin. Hindi naman siya ang pinunta ko rito.

Ilang boring scenes pa ang pinanuod namin at kita ko namang interesado sila sa mga nangyayari.

“Ohh, I think I know where this is going.” Sulli suddenly giggled and I couldn’t help but stare at him when he genuinely smiled. Tumawa naman sakaniya si Elias at Owen at kumunot pa ang noo ko nang akbayang muli ni Elias si Sulli bago kumuha ng prutas sa hawak na bowl nito. I faked a cough so Elias could let go of him but they didn’t mind me. Hindi na rin ako nakaimik pa nang magsimula na ang scene na ayaw ko sana panuorin kasama sila.

Binalik ko ang mga mata ko sa TV at napalunok pa ako nang makita ang hubad na katawan ng dalawang babae. It was a rough bed scene while raining with thunderstorms and I didn’t want to watch it with anyone so I diverted my gaze and it landed on Sulli who’s eating a big strawberry. Napatitig pa ako sakaniya dahil sa expression ng mukha niya ngayon.

He’s looking at the TV with his eyes full of curiosity and I saw how that curiosity slowly turned into lust. Napalunok ako at bumaba ang tingin ko sa mapupulang labi niya at ilang beses pa ako napalunok nang makita kong nakapalibot ang mga iyon sa malaking strawberry and he looks like he’s sucking it with that freaking lustful eyes!

Kasabay ng pagtayo ko ay ang tunog ng kikilat sa pinapanuod nila. Napalingon sila saakin at mabilis ko namang tinuro ang alak sa center table.

“Don’t drink! No one should drink until the NQUL ends!” I don’t even know why I fucking stood up. Tahimik akong nanalangin na huwag nilang mapansin iyon.

“Huh? Diba uminom tayo last-last night?” Sabi ni Sulli at napatingin naman sakaniya si Elias at Owen.

“You did? Napainom mo si Vesper?” Sabi ni Owen at nang-aasar pang tumingin saakin. Umiwas ako ng tingin sakaniya at sinamaan ng tingin si Sulli na nagtatakang nakatingin saakin.

“That was only because.. I wanted to! Pero ngayon, walang iinom.” Gusto ko nang tumakbo palabas dahil ipinapahiya ko ang sarili ko sakanila.

“Alright. Can you sit down? Nawala tuloy iyong pinapanuod ko. Elias, rewind it when they were going at it.” Sinenyasan nila akong umupo at kinuha naman ni Elias ang remote para ibalik sa sex scene na gustong-gusto ata ni Sulli! Napaupo akong muli sa sofa ngunit hindi pa rin ako mapakali. Shit. Why is it not going down? What the hell is going on with me?

“Keanu looks so hot.” Nakayuko ako nang sabihin ni Sulli iyon sa mahinang boses. Naiangat ko ang tingin ko sakaniya at nandoon nanaman iyong expression niya kanina. Why does he look like that?! Why is he lusting over an actor and why am I affected?!

“I gotta go!” Tumayo ako at iyon lamang ang paalam ko bago mabilis na lumakad palabas ng pinto. I heard them calling me before I even exited the house but I didn’t look back. Nang nasa loob na ako ng kotse ay ilang beses akong napahangos nang malalim bago inis na sinulyapan ang nasa gitna ng dalawang hita ko.

“Shit! Why are you hard?!” I screamed at my hard dick trying to get out of my pants. Paulit-ulit na nag play sa utak ko ang mukha ni Sulli habang titig na titig ito sa TV. The lust on his face while watching can’t leave my mind and I’m fucking getting hard.

“No, no, no.. Vesper what is happening to you?” Nanghihina kong ani habang nakapatong na ang noo ko sa manibela. This can’t be happening. I shouldn’t get aroused because of a guy!

“This is nothing, this is nothing. It’s because he looks like a girl, yeah, that’s because he looks like a girl.” Kumbinse ko sa sarili ko habang naiinis na dahil ayaw pa rin bumaba ng alaga ko. What the fuck is wrong with me?!

“This is because of you, Sullivan. I really hate how you look! Fuck.” Pinaandar ko ang kotse ko at umalis sa lugar na iyon. Habang bumabyahe ay punong-puno ang isip ko ng mga rason kung bakit nangyayari ito saakin. Hindi ko matanggap na dahil ito kay Sulli. It can’t be, I’m a man! I’m straight! I’m not gay. Fuck. I must be losing my mind.

Nang makarating sa bahay ay tinext ko si Julian at Simon na pumunta para maglaro ng video games. Hindi pwedeng mapag-isa ako ngayong gabi dahil iyon lamang ang maiisip at maiisip ko! Shit. There’s no doubt, I’m really losing my mind because of Sulli. This is not fair.

SEDUCTIVE RIVALRY

Rivalry 10

Vesper

Nakaupo ako sa bench habang pinapanuod na mag practice ang mga kasama ko. Katabi ko si Owen na kanina pa tanong nang tanong kung bakit mukha akong zombie ngayong umaga. Hindi ko siya sinasagot nang maayos dahil ayokong malaman niya na dahil ito sa pinsan niya.

I couldn’t sleep last night even after playing video games with Simon and Julian. I was up until 2 am and when I finally managed to sleep, I dreamt of Sullivan. Napayuko ako nang ilang segundo bago matalas ang mga matang hinanap ang lalaking ayaw lubayan ang isip ko. He’s running around the court, enjoying his time practicing. Nakatali ang mga buhok niya ngunit dahil sa kakatakbo ay gumugulo iyon. Even with how messy his buns look, he’s sweaty and probably tired, he still look so good. My dream of him flashed in my mind and I wanted to slap myself.

My dream is about me and Sulli, cuddling on bed all night. It feels so real because he was wearing the clothes he was also wearing when we’re at Elias apartment.

Naihilamos ko ang mga kamay ko saaking mukha.

“Why the fuck would I dream about that?” I didn’t noticed that I said it out loud. Nagtatakang tumingin saakin si Owen.

“Are you talking to me?” Taka niya. Umiling ako at seryosong tumingin sakaniya.

“Owe, do you want to go clubbing tonight? Probably go find someone we can fuck around? I think I’m pent up.” I hopelessly said. I can’t think of anything to get rid of these weird shits I’m feeling towards a man right now. Mas lalo namang nagtaka si Owen saakin bago natawa.

[ Owe pronunciation is ‘Ow’ not ‘Ow-e’ :> ]

“Umamin ka nga sakin, may gusto ka kay Sulli ’no?” Nanlaki ang mga mata ko sa tinuran niya.

“Why would you say that?!” Napalakas nanaman ang boses ko at napatingin pa saakin ang lahat ng nasa gymnasium lalo na si Coach na medyo malapit lang saamin.

“Lower your voice, Herrera.” Napapangiwi akong tumango kay coach. Andami ko ng atraso kay coach Solis. Palagi niya akong napapagalitan sa practice dahil masyado raw akong distracted, hindi ko naman masabi sakaniyang dahil iyon kay Sulli na madalas ay nagugulo ang buhok sa tuwing naglalaro at palagi akong natutulala roon! Kahit ngayon ay kasalanan niya kung bakit hindi ako pinapasok ni coach sa court dahil mukha raw akong patay na nabuhay sa itsura ko. Kasalanan ito lahat ni Sullivan.

“Tingnan mo ’to, tinanong ka lang, defensive agad.” Asar pa saakin ni Owen pero hindi ako natutuwa.

“Just tell me why did you think of that? Because fucking hell, I’m losing my mind, Owe.” Napasabunot pa ako sa ulo ko bago halos mangiyak-ngiyak na tumingin sakaniya. Para namang mas lalo siyang natawa sa mukha ko. Lintek. I just really want to know why I am feeling like this over Sulli, hindi ko talaga alam kung bakit ako nagkakaganito. I’m losing it.

“Well, it was just a hunch. Nung nagalit ka kasi nakita mo siya with Sid, your first instance was to kiss him, normal ba yun? I think you were jealous.” Paliwanag niya pero umiling-iling ako.

“No, that’s not true. I wasn’t jealous, I was mad. So mad.” Depensa ko pero inilingan niya lang ako.

“Edi eto, palagi kang affected sa lahat ng ginagawa niya or mga bagay na may kinalaman sakaniya. Katulad nung poster na naka skirt siya.” Napaungot ako sa sinasabi niya at umiling-iling.

“I just don’t like it when he acts like a girl, he’s a man.” Seryoso kong sabi at napangiwi pa siya saakin.

“Yan pa, I think you don’t like it when he ’ acts ’ like a girl or the way he looks because you feel something about it. When I say something, you are secretly attracted to it.” Nanlaki ata ang mga butas ko sa ilong sa mga sinasabi ni Owen.

“I don’t like him, okay? I just simply hate how he looks, it..” Natigilan ako at napatulala sakaniya. Right, it makes me feel something. Malakas akong napabuntong-hininga.

“Vesper, I’m your best friend. I may not be an expert when it comes to your feelings, but I can see that you’re acting different and meaner than before because you’re feeling something about Sulli. Ayoko lang magsalita dahil grabe ang pagka defensive mo these days.” He said the last line with his teasing tone. Napairap ako. Totoo kaya talaga ang sinasabi niya? Am I attracted to Sulli that’s why I keep acting like this?

“But why? We’re both men.” Mahina kong sabi. Siya naman ang napabuntong-hininga at inakbayan ako.

“Homophobic ka ba?” Seryoso niyang tanong kaya inis kong inalis ang akbay niya saakin.

“You know I’m not, close nga ako sa kapatid na bading ni Elias ’e. Mas malala pa yun kay Sulli kung manamit pambabae, pero hindi naman ako naiinis sakaniya.” Parang bata kong depensa. Natawa siya at napatango-tango.

“Right, you’re not mean to Elton.” Banggit niya sa kapatid ni Elias na nasa probinsya nila at minsan ay dumadalaw kay Elias kaya kilala namin. Elias has a gay brother that always dress like a girl.

“Ves, will it kill you to like someone with the same gender? Does it disgust you?” Mahina at seryoso niyang tanong habang nakatingin sa mga teammates naming naglalaro. I stared at him and thought about what he asked.

Does it disgust me? No, why would it disgust me if I really like them? Will it kill me? Of course not, I don’t even care of what other people say.

“No, but.. maybe it bothers me. Because I was taught that I should only like women. And that’s what I always believed.” Napalunok ako. That realization just came into my mind. Owen chuckled.

“That’s why I think you like Sulli, because you were never bothered about gays before, but when you met him, you acted different. Maybe because you also felt different?” He looked at me at nahihiya akong umiwas ng tingin.

I did felt different when I first met him. Lalo na nang magpakilala siya bilang lalaki, I couldn’t accept it because I know I was attracted to his appearance.

“Don’t get embarrassed, it’s nothing serious. A lot of straight guys likes Sulli, I think you’re just having your first gay crush.” Biglang sumigla ang boses niya at pabiro pa akong sinuntok sa braso. Kumunot naman ang noo ko sa sinabi niya.

“A lot of straight guys like Sulli?” Pag-uulit ko sa sinabi niya. Tumango naman siya saakin.

“Yeah, even Elias has a crush on Sulli. I can tell.” Bumalot nanaman ang inis sa dibdib ko sa sinabi niya. Elias likes Sulli in that way?

“Why would Elias like him?” Hindi ko napigilang inis na masabi iyon.

“Yan, seloso ka rin. Haha, a lot of people likes Sulli, get over it, Ves. Sulli is a nice catch, he’s pretty and handsome, smart, funny and also hot. Kaya ka nga tinigasan kagabi diba? You think I didn’t saw it?” Napaatras ako sakaniya dahil sa huli niyang sinabi.

“Aw!” Ungot ko nang mahulog ako sa bench dahil sa pag-atras ko. Shit.

“HAHAHAHAHA! You think I didn’t saw it? I saw you staring at him while we’re watching, and when you stood up, I almost fucking punch your bulging crotch because it was on my face!” Halos hingalin siya sa katatawa habang sinasabi iyon. Napamura ako sa sobrang pagkapahiya.

“Fuck you, Owen. Is that why you asked me if I liked Sulli when I told you we should go clubbing?” Inis kong tanong habang bumabalik sa pagkakaupo sa bench dahil napalingon pa saamin sila coach. Shit talaga.

“Yeah, I know you wanted to divert your feelings for him. That’s a good option though.” Natatawa ngunit seryoso niyang sabi kaya kumunot nanaman ang noo ko sakaniya.

“What do you mean?” Tanong ko sa huli niyang sinabi.

“Sulli will never like a bully like you, you should really forget about your attraction to him. May mas pag-asa pa si Elias kesa sayo.” Tawa niya habang wala saakin ang tingin. Nanunuod siya ng mga kasama naming nagpa-practice. He was laughing but he was serious about what he said. Bumalik nanaman ang pagsikip ng dibdib ko katulad ng palagi kong nararamdaman kapag may kasamang iba si Sulli o kapag may sinasabi siyang hindi ko nagugustohan.

“Mas gwapo ako kay Elias, Owe.” Tangi kong nasabi dahil iyon lang ata ang magandang traits na maipagmamayabang ko kay Sulli ngayon. Fuck, why did I fucking bully him? If Owen is right and I really have a crush on him, I will really never win his heart because I treated him like a jerk!

“Pero mas matured si Elias, Sulli’s type in men is matured, like his ex, Sebastian. Tsaka crush lang yan, fleeting feelings, Ves. Go find someone else, not my cousin.” Natigilan ako sa sinabi niya dahil seryosong-seryoso siya kahit hindi nakatingin saakin. I stared at his face and he doesn’t seem like he really likes the idea that I like Sulli. Napalunok ako at napabuntong-hininga. Well, I also don’t want to anger him. He’s been my best friend for a long time. And maybe he’s right that this is only a fleeting affection.

I can’t believed I’m actually accepting that I have a crush on Sulli.

“Okay, walang talo-talo.” Mahina kong sabi at nakangiti siyang tumingin saakin.

“Good.” Tinapik niya ang balikat ko at saktong tinawag kaming lahat ni coach. Naunang tumayo si Owen at nanghihina akong sinundan siya ng tingin. I don’t know why I suddenly don’t feel good because of what we talked about. Ano nanaman ba ’to?

Napabuntong-hininga akong sumunod sakaniya at lumapit kay coach. Nagulat pa ako nang tumabi saakin si Sulli. Agad na kumalabog ang dibdib ko ngunit iniwas ko sakaniya ang tingin ko at lumayo-layo pa. I should forget about this crush shits or I will lose my mind and Owen will fucking kill me.

“I’m really disappointed with how our team is doing, this is not how our team works, this is not even a teamwork at all.” Panimula ni coach kaya lahat kami ay natahimik at nabigla. Tumingin siya saakin kaya nabato ako sa kinatatayuan ko. Shit naman.

“May bago tayong ace player, Sulli is the best small forward we had— I had in all of these years I have worked as a coach. This is an opportunity for us to bring back the trophy again, but just because we have a new player, our coordination and cooperation just disappeared into thin air. Especially with you, Herrera.” Napapikit ako nang banggitin niya ang pangalan ko. I know I was staggering these past few days but shit, I never wanted to be mentioned by coach Solis when he’s having his dialogue like this.

“I’m sorry, coach. I promise to get back on my feet.” Agad kong sagot nang makabawi sa pagkapahiya. Umiling-iling naman siya saakin.

“I don’t need promises, the elimination round will be next week, I need certainty.” Matigas niyang sabi kaya nakagat ko ang ibabang labi ko.

“That’s why Owen and I decided that we need to have a team building.” Biglang sumigla ang boses ni coach kaya napapaungot akong tumingin sakaniya. What?

“We are going to the beach for two days and two nights!” Biglang sigaw ni Owen kaya lahat kami ay napapailing na napaungot. Coach Solis had that dialogue just for this? I’m sure Owen was the one who told him to do this. Loko talaga.

“Are you sure about this, coach? Next week na ang elimination round.” Theo asked. Tumango-tango ang coach.

“I’m doing this exactly because of that, I need all of you to cooperate. Kailangan niyong maging close kay Sullivan, especially you, Herrera.” I almost jumped when he mentioned me again along with Sulli’s name. Sumulyap ako sakaniya at natigilan pa ako nang nakatingin na siya saakin habang may nang-aasar na ngiti. Napaiwas ako ng tingin. He’s teasing me again. Because of me being a jerk to him, inaasar-asar niya na rin ako!

“Are we going to stay in the same room to get closer, coach?” Nagbibiro pang tanong ni Sulli na ikinatawa ng team. Biniro-biro pa nila kami. Nag-init ang buong mukha ko. Kung wala lang kaming usapan ni Owen ay talagang babarahin ko siya! Napapikit ako sa hiya. I’m being jumpy and my heart is racing whenever he speaks!

“Yes, the both of you are going to stay in the same room until you’re tied as a knot.” Lahat kami natigilan sa sagot ni coach Solis. Kahit si Owen ay mukhang hindi inaasahan ang sagot nito.

Wow, destiny and timing isn’t really on my side right now.

SEDUCTIVE RIVALRY

A/N: Yung UD kagabi kasabay dapat yun nito kaso

aksidente

ko palang

napindot

yung publish amp napansin ko mga 10 mins na kaya hinayaan ko na lng HAHAHAHA ’di pa nman fully edited yun but oh well

Rivalry 11

Sulli’s

“You are going to wear that?” Tumingin ako kay Owen nang tanungin niya iyon. I looked at what I’m wearing. Naka fitted sky blue shirt ako na hapit sa bewang ko, I partnered it with jogging shorts.

“Why?” Tanong ko habang inaayos ang dala kong malaking bag para sa trip namin.

“Nothing. You look good. Mangangalaiti nanaman iyon si Vesper sa ganda ng katawan mo.” Pareho kaming humalakhak ni Owen sa huli niyang sinabi.

“I look sexy, don’t I? He hates when I look good. Probably jealous.” Biro ko pabalik at napapailing lang siyang natawa bago ako inakbayan. Sabay kaming lumabas ng mansyon ng lola at lolo at doon namin inantay ang bus na sasakyan namin papuntang beach kung saan kami mag s-stay ng buong team.

“Sure ba talaga si coach na isasama kayo sa isang kwarto? What’s gotten into him?” Bigla niyang sabi habang naghihintay kami.

“Vesper is really having a hard time adjusting to me, I can also see that he’s distracted because of me. Baka need talaga namin magkaayos for this team to work.” Kibit-balikat kong ani sakaniya. Napabuntong-hininga naman siya kaya naitaas ko ang kilay ko.

“Why? Somethings bothering you?” I asked. Umiling siya bago sumagot.

“I think Vesper likes you that’s why he’s acting different, he can’t accept it.” Parang sure niyang sabi. Nagtataka akong natawa sa sinabi niya. Pangalawa na siya sa nagsabi niyan saakin. Una ay si Elias.

“I don’t think so, and even if he does, I’ll make sure he will accept it and make this team work. Gusto ko rin manalo.” I assured him because he seems so bothered for some reason. Seryoso naman siyang tumingin saakin.

“How about you? Do you like him?” Natigilan ako sa tanong niya at napaisip.

Well, Vesper is good looking, siya ang pinaka gwapo na nakita ko simula nang dumating ako sa Pilipinas. Pero siya rin ang pinaka bully at immature. Natawa ako sa sariling naisip. But he can be mature sometimes, lalo na nung naglasing ako dahil kay Sebastian. He took care of me.

“He amuses me.” Maikli kong ngiti at napairap naman saakin si Owen.

“You really have the worst taste in men.” Biro niya bago ko pa makita ang paparating na bus papasok ng village kung nasaan ang bahay ng lolo at lola. Siniko ko siya at sumagot.

“I didn’t say I like him.” Irap ko pabalik. Tumigil sa harapan namin ang bus at bumukas ang pinto niyon. Sabay kaming pumasok at lahat na sila naroon kasama si Vesper na nakatingin sa labas ng bintana at hindi tumingin saamin. Nasa pinaka likuran siya ng bus, nag-iisa.

“Go sit beside Herrera, Turner.” Hindi ko na kailangan magtaka kung bakit naroon siya nang sabihin agad iyon ni coach. Napailing kaming pareho ni Owen bago ako lumakad palapit kay Vesper. Kahit nakaupo na ako sa tabi niya ay hindi pa rin siya tumingin saakin.

What is he doing? Nag-iisip bata nanaman siguro ang isang ’to.

Umandar ang bus at nang makalabas sa village namin ay nagsalita ako.

“Ves, cooperate. We need to make this team work.” Mahina kong sabi na kami lamang ang makakarinig. Sa wakas ay tumingin na siya saakin. He stared at me for a second before nodding his head.

“Okay. What do you want me to do? Play friends with you?” He said with his sassy tone. I almost laughed. For a guy that is so fucking straight, he acts so sassy.

“I’m still a man, you can treat me like how you treat your teammates. I can be your friend, a guy friend.” Mahina kong sabi na kami lamang ang makakarinig. Napatitig naman siya saakin at napabuntong-hininga pa.

“You want to be treated like a man?” Bigla niyang tanong sa bagot niyang boses. Napakurap-kurap ako bago tumango. Ngumisi naman siya at nagulat pa ako nang bigla niya akong akbayan.

“Okay then, bro . What do you think we should do to get closer?” Bumalot ang amoy niya saakin nang akbayan niya ako at mayabang na nagsalita. I wanted to push him away but I sighed and licked my lips. If this is how he wants to treat me because I said I wanted to be treated like a man, then I’ll play his games.

“You decide, what do you want to do for this awkwardness between us to disappear?” Tanong ko at ipinatong ko pa ang ulo ko sa balikat niya habang nakatingala sa mukha niyang mukhang nabigla sa ginawa ko. I secretly smiled. He’s still so jumpy around me, he can’t fool me.

“L-Let’s get to know each other better! Let’s start by telling each other how we got into basketball.” Napapaso niyang inalis ang pagkakaakbay saakin kaya inilayo ko na rin ang ulo ko. I chuckled before nodding to his idea.

“Okay, me first. I got into basketball because my father wanted me to, he wants me to have a masculine hobby.” Kwento ko at napapanguso naman siyang tumango.

“Is your father homophobic?” Tanong niya na ikinabigla ko. Nang makabawi ay sumagot ako.

“Yeah, he acts exactly like you. Always telling me to act like this instead of this, dress this way not that way. Don’t do this, do that. You sound like him, you know?” Hindi ko mapigilang asarin siya. But that’s also half-truths. Kunot-noo naman siyang tumingin saakin.

“I’m not homophobic, Sulli. I have gay friends.” Seryoso niyang sabi. Napatitig naman ako sakaniya bago malakas na natawa. Napalingon pa saamin ang ibang kasama namin kaya naitikom ko ang bibig ko. He’s looking at me with his annoyed expressions.

“Having gay friends doesn’t mean you weren’t acting homophobic towards me, captain. Deny it all you want, but you were in fact an asshole because I was gay.” Seryoso ko ring sabi. Ang akala ko ay kokontra pa siya ngunit napaiwas lamang siya ng tingin na ipinagtaka ko. Magsasalita na sana ako ulit nang mauna siya.

“Basketball was the first thing my father taught me. Actually, it was the only time we had a bonding together, and it’s because of basketball. I loved the sport after that. I grew up being good at it and dreaming of becoming a professional player.” Kwento niya at napatitig naman ako sa mukha niya.

He seems.. sad.

“Then I guess we have something in common, we liked basketball because of our fathers.” Sabi ko at dineretso ang tingin sa harapan ng bus. Ang akala ko ay hindi na siya magsasalita ngunit nagtanong siyang muli.

“You really like basketball? Or you were just forced to like it?” Mahina at seryoso niyang tanong. Hindi ako lumingon sakaniya at naibaba ko ang tingin ko sa hawak kong bag. I’ve asked myself that a lot of times, but right now, I think I know the right answer to it.

“I grew fond of it. Being an athlete was always exhausting for me, but because of this sport, my life got a little bit livelier. So, I guess I really like it now.” Kibit-balikat ko habang hindi pa rin tumitingin sakaniya, but I know he was staring at me.

“What makes you like basketball?” Muli niya pang tanong. Tumingin naman ako sakaniya kaya nagkaharap kami.

“My careless teammates, back in Canada. They were always joyful, playful and rowdy. I love watching them be themselves and they never left me out.” Ngumiti ako sakaniya bago ako napatitig sa brown niyang mga mata. The color of his eyes matched his dirty blonde hair. Ngayon ko lang rin napansin na may mga freckles siya sa mukha, it’s not that visible.

“Do you hate my team?” Tanong niyang muli. Napailing naman ako.

“Why would I? My former team also bullied me before they became my friends.” Kwento ko at wala naman siyang naging reaksyon doon. Hindi ko pa rin naalis ang mga titig ko sa mukha niyang nakaharap rin saakin.

Habang patagal nang patagal, he’s looking like a foreigner to me. May lahi ba siya? Matangos ang ilong niya but it’s slightly big. Manly.

“Is your hair color natural, Vesper?” Tanong ko at tumango naman siya.

“Yeah, why?” Taka niya. Umiling naman ako bago iniwas ang tingin sakaniya.

“Looks good on you.” Komento ko bago pumikit. Narinig kong napatikhim naman siya bago kami natahimik. Hindi na siya muling nagtanong at tinamaan na rin ako ng antok.

Ngunit bago pa man ako tuluyang makatulog, narinig ko ang mahina niyang boses.

“I also liked your hair when I first saw you. It suits you a lot… I’m sorry I was an asshole to you, Sulli.” Even when my mind is already blank and ready to go into deep slumber, I felt my lips moving to smile.

This jerk finally admitted it.

---

NAkarating kami sa resort na pinagdalhan saamin ng coach at agad kaming nagsikalat sa pampang kahit dala-dala pa namin ang mga gamit namin.

“I didn’t realize I haven’t gone to the beach for so long!” Narinig ko si Julian na excited na sumisigaw.

“Me too. I forgot how beautiful it is in the beach.” Sabi naman ni Elias na nasa tabi ko. Napatango-tango naman ako. Ako rin naman, hindi naman kasi ako nag b-beach sa Canada.

“Mamaya na kayo magkagulo jan, ipasok muna ninyo ang mga gamit sa mga kwartong naka assign sainyo. And then rest, may gagawin tayo mamayang gabi.” We heard the coach. May lumapit saaming mga staff ng resort at binigyan kami ng susi para sa mga kwarto namin. They said pick a partner dahil pandalawahan ang kwarto. Nagkatinginan naman kami ni Vesper na nasa hindi kalayuan saakin. Ipinakita ko sakaniya ang susi at napapakamot ng ulo pa siyang tumango saakin. I chuckled and looked at Owen who’s beside me.

“Sino kasama mo?” Tanong ko habang naglalakad na kami sa hotel ng resort. The staffs are guiding us.

“Si Elias na lang, hindi ka naman pwede ’e.” Nguso niya.

“Parang lugi ka pa niyan?” Si Elias na nainsulto ata sa reaksyon ni Owen na tinanguan naman siya.

“Oo naman, pag nakikita ko mukha mo pakiramdam ko ay inuutangan ako.” Biro niya at binara naman siya agad ni Elias. They both annoyed each other at napapailing lang akong nauna na sa loob ng hotel resort. Nagkanya-kanya kaming hanap ng kwarto hanggang sa makita ko ang number ng kwarto namin ni Vesper. I saw him waiting for me because I have the key. Agad naman akong lumapit sakaniya.

“Sorry, ang kulit kasi ni Elias at Owen.” Sabi ko habang binubuksan ang pinto ng kwarto namin.

“Is Elias courting you?” Nang makapasok kami sa kwarto ay tinanong niya iyon. Nagtataka naman akong tumingin sakaniya habang ibinababa ko ang mga gamit sa kama. Malaki ang room at dalawa ang kama na hindi naman masiyadong nagkakalayo. Dumeretso rin siya sa isang kama sa tabi ng akin at inayos ang mga gamit niya.

“Huh? Elias is straight, and we are friends.” Taka ko habang inaayos pa rin ang mga gamit ko.

“He seems to like you. You are always together.” Mahina niyang sabi. I looked at him and he’s not looking at me. Nag-aayos lamang siya ng gamit. Pinagmasdan ko siya at napailing ako. He looks like he’s being shy to ask but really wants to know the answer.

“We are comfortable with each other. We are the same age, and Elias is kind. Mabait siya and he doesn’t have a problem with my sexual preference.” I said in a matter of fact. Hindi pa rin siya tumingin saakin pero nakita kong umasim ang mukha niya.

“Syempre wala siyang problema don, gusto ka rin ’e.” May sinabi siya ngunit sa sobrang hina n’on ay hindi ko narinig.

“What are you mumbling about? And why are you asking?” Taas-kilay ko. Lumapit ako sakaniya at nagulat pa ako nang para siyang tipaklong na dali-daling lumayo saakin.

“D-Don’t get near me..” Nagugulat niya ring sabi. Gulat at nagtataka ko siyang tiningan.

“Why? You look scared.” Taka ko. He’s being weird again.

“A-Ayaw ko lang. Do me a favor and don’t get near me while we are in the same room.” Seryoso niyang sabi habang parang kinakabahan pa rin na nakatingin saakin. I looked at him weirdly before something came up in my mind. Hindi ako makapaniwalang natawa sakaniya.

“Takot ka ba na baka gapangin kita? Wow, ang taas naman ng pangarap mo.” Inis kong sabi sakaniya at nanlaki ang mga mata niya saakin. Tinuro niya pa ako.

“H-Hoy, anong pangarap! Hindi imposibleng gapangin mo talaga ako, yummy ako!” Parang bata niyang sigaw. Hindi ko napigilang matawa sa sinasabi niya. He’s so fucking immature. But I don’t know why I find him stupidly cute.

“Okay, Mr. Yummy, have you seen my ex? Sebastian Cameron? The actor? The current hottest actor in the Philippines? That’s my type, Vesper. Not someone like you.” Pagtataray ko sakaniya. Humalukipkip pa ako sa harapan niya. Mukhang nayabangan naman siya saakin at siya na mismo ang lumapit sa pwesto ko.

“Mas hot ako don sa action star mo, kahit mag hubo’t hubad pa siya habang katabi ako, mas lamang ako ron!” Sigaw niya sa mukha ko na akala mo ay napaka seryoso ng pinaglalaban niya. Honestly, hindi ako napipikon o naaasar tuwing gumaganito siya, natatawa ako. I find it so funny that he’s always so eager to prove himself to me. Para siyang bata.

“To see is to believe. I’ve seen Sebastian naked, while you..” Tiningnan ko siya mula ulo hanggang paa, pagkatapos ay ibinalik ko iyon pataas ngunit huminto ang mata ko sa harapan ng pantalon niya. Kahit hindi matigas, bumubukol ang loko.

“Hindi ko pa nakikita yang pinagmamayabang mo.” Biro ko at muli siyang parang tipaklong na tumalon palayo saakin. Hindi ko napigilang mapa-halakhak sa reaksyon niya.

“Manyak!” Sigaw niya saakin na mas lalo kong ikinatawa.

“Gosh, Vesper. You’re so cute.” Hindi ko napigilang komento at mas lalo akong natawa nang makita kong namula ang buong mukha niya. Nagpupuyos siyang umalis sa harapan ko at lumabas ng pinto. Matalas ang tingin niya saakin habang pinipigilan kong matawa. Parang bata.

Nailabas ko ang malakas kong halakhak nang isara niya ang pinto nang sobrang lakas.

Pikon!

SR

A/N: Yan na kasi may nagmamakaawa na HAHAHHAHA anyway halata nman na slow burn ’to diba? HAHHAHAHA

Rivalry 12

Vesper’s

“Oh? Naayos mo na agad gamit mo?” Natigil ako sa lounge ng hotel resort nang makita ko si Simon na nakaupo sa isa sa mga sofa. Lumapit ako sakaniya at umupo sa kaharap niyang sofa.

“Yeah. How about you?” Tanong ko kahit hindi ako interesado. Naiinis pa rin ako sa sarili, lalo na sa inaasta ko tuwing lalapit saakin si Sulli. I act like a loser who can’t properly talk to his crush! Dammit.

“I had Theo arrange it for me.” Sagot niya na tinanguan ko na lang. Napatingin ako sa entrance ng hotel na may mga pumapasok habang lumalalim ang iniisip ko.

I’m acting like a virgin who just had his first crush. I don’t know what’s happening to me but Sulli is making me react this way. I don’t even want to get near him because I keep imagining things with him! Lustful things! I can’t help it and I want to punch myself because of it.

Maganda si Sulli, sexy, mature at alam niya dalhin ang sarili niya. He’s also smart, especially his mouth. He’s totally my fucking type if not for his gender— ah, scratch that. Kahit na tutol na tutol ako nung una sa nararamdaman ko dahil lalaki siya, I can’t really help it! Hindi ko mapigilan ang nararamdaman ko. I do like him. And I’m just a man, I can’t help but fantasize about him even tho I keep stopping myself.

Kagabi lamang ay bago ako makatulog ay siya ang laman ng isip ko. I keep imagining what will happen to us now that we are going to stay in the same damn room. Kaya ayaw ko siyang palapitin kanina dahil natatakot ako sa baka kung anong magawa ko sakaniya. May atraso pa ako nang pwersahan ko siyang halikan noong nakaraang linggo. Ayokong maulit iyon dahil baka mapatay na ako ni Owen. But he keeps teasing me kaya talagang masisiraan na ako ng ulo. I can’t seem to control myself when I’m around Sulli, lalong-lalo na ang mga reaksyon kong naiinis rin ako. I’m acting like a big loser when I’m around him, paulit-ulit ko iyong pinipigilan pero walang nangyayari sa tuwing kaharap ko na siya. Fuck it.

“Ang lalim ng iniisip mo?” Natauhan ako nang magsalita si Simon na nagtatakang nakatingin na saakin. Tumayo ako.

“I’m just thinking about the upcoming game.” Pagsisinungaling ko at lumakad ako palabas ng hotel. Sumunod naman agad siya saakin at nakita pa namin si Julian na palabas rin ng hotel. Sabay-sabay kaming lumabas at naisipan naming maglibot muna sa resort dahil mamayang gabi pa naman kami kailangan ni coach. I need to wander my mind off or I’m really gonna lose my mind over Sullivan.

Naglibot kami sa malaking resort na pinagdalhan saamin ng coach. Marami ang stores and restaurants dito na pwede mong pasukan. Marami ang turista kaya marami kaming nakakasalubong. Kumakaway-kaway pa nga si Julian sa mga babae kaya natatawa ako sakaniya. Mukha siyang asong excited sa mga babae.

“Kape tayo, take out lang.” Aya ni Simon nang may madaanan kaming cafe. Pumasok kami roon para bumili at may naabutan pa kaming tatlong foreigner na nakalinya rin para sa take out.

“That boy is gorgeous, I thought he’s a woman.” Maingay iyong mga foreigner kaya naririnig namin ang malalim nilang mga boses na nag-uusap.

“You should ask for his name, or his number.” Sabi naman nung pinaka matangkad sakanila. Mukha silang mga amerikano. Mga matatanda lang siguro saamin ng ilang taon. Ang puputi at ang lalim ng mga accent. Pero na-intriga ako sa pinag-uusapan nila. Sounds familiar.

“Baka si Sulli ang pinag-uusapan nila. Nakita ko siya kaninang lumabas kasunod natin.” Biglang sabi ni Julian kaya nakumpirma kong tama ang hinala ko.

Kahit saan talaga, kahit anong lahi! Naaagaw niya ang atensyon ng mga lalaki. Naalala ko nanaman tuloy ang tanginang Sid na iyon. Hinalikan si Sulli! Kingina, hindi ko pa nga nahahalikan si Sulli noon, naunahan pa ako ng gago.

Nakagat ko ang labi ko nang maalala ko ang malambot at matamis na labi ni Sulli.

“I should buy him a drink too. Let’s go.” Nag order na ang mga amerikano sa harapan namin. Umasim ang mukha ko sa naririnig ko sakanila. Mukhang lalapitan pa nila si Sulli. Nasaan kaya ang isang yun? Bakit siya lumabas? Dapat ay pumirme na lamang siya sa loob ng hotel!

“Nakita mo ba kung saan pumunta si Sulli?” Mahina kong tanong kay Julian. Nagkibit-balikat naman siya kaya napailing na lamang ako. Nang makuha ng mga amerikano ang order nila ay nagpaalam rin ako sa dalawang kasama ko.

“Order me an iced coffee, babalik ako.” Maikli kong sabi bago ko sinundan ang tatlong amerikano. Papunta sila sa pampang at malayo pa man ay nakita ko na ang lalaking hinahanap ko. Nagbihis siya. 

Sulli was wearing a white baby tee paired with jorts. May hawak siyang maliit na camera at nakalugay ang mga buhok niya. He’s taking a picture of the ocean and himself. Napakurap pa ako nang makita kong ngumiti siya sa camera. He looks fucking majestic. Napapalingon sakaniya ang mga taong dumadaan.

Hindi ko namalayang napahinto pala ako sa paglalakad nang maunahan akong makalapit ng tatlong amerikanong iyon. Mukhang nagulat pa si Sulli nang abutan siya nito ng iced coffee. Lumapit ako sakanila ngunit natigilan muli para makinig sa sasabihin nitong amerikano. Nasa bandang likod ako ni Sulli ngunit nakatigilid siya kaya nakikita ko ang mukha niya.

“Hi, I’m Davis. I noticed you earlier and bought you a drink.” Narinig kong sabi sakaniya ng lalaki.

“Oh, hello. I’m Sullivan. Thank you, but I don’t drink coffee. I’m sorry.” Nahihiyang ngumiti sakaniya si Sulli na ikinainis ko.

Paalisin mo na! Wag mo na

ngitian

!

“Oh, really? I didn’t thought so.” Napakamot naman iyong amerikano at ibinaba ang hawak niyang malamig na kape. “Can I have your number then? Your beauty mesmerized me, I don’t think I’ll ever forget you.” Tsk! Ang tamis ng dila ng gagong foreigner.

“A-Alright. But I don’t have my phone right now, give me your phone.” Nagulat ako nang pumayag si Sulli. Dali-dali akong lumapit sakanila pero naibigay niya na ang number niya.

“Thank you. I’ll call you, baby.” Malanding paalam sakaniya nung amerikano at ngiting tagumpay na bumalik sa mga kasama niyang nakangiti rin sakaniya.

“Ay shit! Ano ba?!” Tinalasan ko ng tingin si Sulli nang humarap siya saakin at nagulat pa sa presensya ko.

“Bakit mo binigay ang number mo? Kala ko ba mga action star ang mga type mo?” I said while glaring at him. Nakahawak pa siya sa dibdib niya dahil mukhang nagulat talaga siya nang makita niya ako sa likod niya.

“B-Bakit ka ba nandiyan?! Aatakehin ako sa puso sayo.” Napahangos pa siya bago rin matalas na tumingin saakin. “Ano naman kung binigay ko number ko? Pakialam mo ba. Alis nga jan.” Umalis siya sa harapan ko at nilagpasan ako. Agad ko siyang sinunod.

“Sulli, sabi mo ay mataas ang standard mo. Bakit mo binigay number mo sa mga panget na yun?” Naiinis kong pagpupumilit na tanong sakaniya. Hindi naman siya tumingin saakin at tumigil pa para kuhaan ng litrato yung nadaanan namin na nagtitinda ng mga souvenirs.

“Sulli, answer me. Ayaw mo nga sakin tapos gusto mo don sa amerikanong yun? Mas gwapo naman ako ron.” I don’t even know why I want to know why he gave him his number but I want to! Naiinis ako!

Natatawa naman siyang tumingin saakin at nagulat pa ako nang kuhaan niya ako ng litrato.

“Hey, delete that.” Saway ko sakaniya ngunit natigilan ako nang makita ko ang masaya niyang mukha habang nakatingin sa kinuha niyang litrato sakin. He’s smiling so genuine and wide. Abot mata ang mga ngiti niya.

“Syempre naman mas gwapo ka ron. And who said I like that guy?” Ibinaba niya ang camera niya at tumingin saakin. Kumabog pa ang dibdib ko sa unang linya niya ngunit pilit kong nilunok ang kaba sa dibdib at nagsalita.

“Then why did you gave him your number?” Tanong ko pang muli.

“I didn’t. That was Owen’s number.” Ngisi niya. Natigilan naman ako bago nagtaka. He gave that guy Owen’s number?

“I always get approach like that. Magpupumilit lamang iyon kapag hindi ako magbigay ng number, so I gave Owen’s. He made me memorized it because of what happened with me and Sid last time.” Paliwanag niya at biglang nang-aasar na ang ekspresyon ng mukha niya habang nakatingin saakin.

“Why? Umamin ka nga sakin, you like me, ’no? You were jealous.” Asar niya at hindi agad ako nakapagsalita. Mukhang inaasahan niyang tatanggi ako pero hindi ako umimik.

Fuck! Fuck! Fuck!

Anong sasabihin ko?

“H-Huy, nagbibiro lang ako. Pikon ka nanaman ba?” Tanong niya pa. Lumunok ako at nagsalita.

“So what? What if I really like you?” Lakas loob kong tanong. I need to man up! Napakurap-kurap naman siya saakin at gulat ang mukha niya. Nilapitan niya ako at itinaas niya pa ang kamay niya para damahin ang noo at leeg ko.

“Wala ka naman lagnat. Ayos ka lang ba? Ikaw? Magkakagusto sakin? The hell, you are crazy.” Pabiro niyang sabi kaya inis kong kinuha ang kamay niyang dinadama pa rin ang noo ko. I looked at his face and he also stared at me with confusion in his eyes.

“Why is the idea of me – liking you – crazy?” Seryoso kong tanong kahit sobra na ang kalabog ng dibdib ko. Nakita ko siyang lumunok bago napaisip. Maya-maya ay sinagot niya ang tanong ko.

“You spent your days bullying and making fun of me, Ves. Of course it’s funny and crazy to me if it turns out you really like me.” Mahina ngunit seryoso niya ring sagot. Halata pa rin sa mukha niya ang pagtataka at hindi paniniwala saakin. Napalunok ako at inilapit ko ang mukha ko sakaniya na parang hahalikan ko siya. Nang sobrang lapit na ng mga labi namin ay huminto ako. He flinched and closed his eyes. Ilang ulit akong napalunok.

“But I do, as lame as it sounds, like a fucking loser, I think I fucking like you.” Sa wakas ay naamin ko rin iyon.

Maybe this fucking way, I don’t have to always walk on edges when he’s around.

Dahan-dahan niyang naimulat ang mga mata niya at gulat na napatitig saakin.

“No way. You’re just confused.” I anticipated a mocking reply from him. Ang akala ko ay pagtatawanan niya ako ngunit nadismaya ako sa sinagot niya saakin.

“Sulli, you think I’m fucking confused? Of course I am, I’m fucking straight and I just confessed that I like you. I didn’t choose this too.” Desperado kong sabi. Inilayo niya ang mukha niya saakin at inagaw ang hawak-hawak kong braso niya. He looked at me like I was really a mad man.

“Maybe you just find me pretty, Vesper. Finding me attractive and liking me is two different things.” Pagpupumilit niyang hindi ko siya gusto. I didn’t expect this at all. Ang inaasahan ko ay pagtatawanan niya ako!

“Sullivan, do I need to fucking ravish your mouth again for you to believe that I fucking like you? All of what I did, all of the bullying and being an asshole, it’s because I can’t fucking accept that I’m liking a man.” Napaatras siya saakin dahil sa una kong sinabi. Ang bilis-bilis ng tibok ng puso ko ngayon.

For fuck sake this is the first time I’m confessing with someone and it’s a man!

“I-I don’t know, fuck. Baliw ka ba? Don’t fucking like me!” Bigla siyang sumigaw kaya ako naman ang nagulat.

“What?” Hindi ko makapaniwalang ani. Umatras siyang muli habang napapailing.

“Don’t fucking like me, hello? I didn’t need you to confess! You ruined my plan!” Galit niyang sigaw. Pinanlakihan ko naman siya ng mga mata dahil napapatingin saamin iyong ibang dumadaan sa pwesto namin. Mukhang napansin niya rin iyon kaya nakagat niya ang labi niya. Lumapit ako sakaniya.

“How can you just say that to me? I mustered all of my courage to confessed to you! And what plan?” Hinanakit ko. Nakaka badtrip naman siya! Umamin na nga ako ’e!

“Yung plano kong maging komportable tayo sa isa’t-isa para sa game! Ano ka ba? Bakit ka umamin?!” Inis niya pa ring sabi. Hindi ako makapaniwalang napatitig sakaniya at talagang hindi ko alam ang susunod kong sasabihin. Pareho kaming nanlalaki ang mga matang nakatingin sa isa’t-isa at hindi nakakapagsalita.

What the fuck am I supposed to say to that?!

Hindi ko alam kung gaano kami katagal nagtinginan na parehong hindi makapaniwala sa sinabi ng isa’t-isa ngunit matagal rin iyon. Halos ramdam ko lahat ng hangin dito sa beach dahil sa pagkapahiya!

“A-Ate!” Naputol lamang ang titigan namin nang may dalawang batang lalaki ang kumalabit kay Sulli. Dalawang totoy na walang damit at tanging shorts trunk lamang ang suot. May hawak silang mga bulaklak.

“H-Ha?” Taka ni Sulli. Ngumiti naman sakaniya iyong dalawang bata at pareho kami nagulat nang bigyan siya ng isa ng pulang bulaklak na malaki. Isa lang iyon.

“Ate ganda, ilagay mo sa tenga mo. Bagay ’to sayo.” Sabi ng bata at hindi pa man nakakabawi si Sulli sa pagkagulat ay nagsalita na ulit iyong isa pang bata.

“Mas bagay ’to sakaniya! Hindi yang pula!” Tinulak ng bata iyong naunang nagbigay at inabutan rin si Sulli ng isang gumamela na kulay dilaw pero ang inner core ay pula. Napakurap-kurap ako sa dalawang paslit.

Aba’t inuunahan pa akong pumorma!

“Hoy, lumayas nga kayo rito. Walang bagay sakaniya jan.” Tinaboy ko sila pero agad akong sinamaan ng tingin ni Sulli. Ngumiti siya sa mga bata dahil mukhang nakabawi na siya sa gulat saakin at sa dalawa. Umupo siya upang makapantay ang mga totoy.

“Don’t mind that man. Wag kayong mag-away, bagay naman saakin yang dalawa. Pero hindi ako babae ’e. Kuya Sulli is a boy.” Itinayo ni Sulli iyong tinulak na bata at pinagpagan niya ito bago hinarap ang dalawang namamangha naman sakaniya.

“Talaga po? Ang pretty niyo po kahit boy.” Sabi ng bata at napatango-tango rin ako.

“Oo nga.” Hindi ko napigilang komento at sinamaan naman ako ng tingin ni Sulli. Iniwas ko ang tingin ko sakaniya.

Pinuri na nga!

“Okay lang ba kunin ko pa rin yang bulaklak kahit boy ako?” Malambing niyang tanong sa dalawa na mabilis namang tumango-tango sakaniya. Kumikinang pa ang mga mata nitong dalawang paslit habang nakatitig sa mukha niya!

“Can you do it for me?” Iginilid ni Sulli ang buhok niya sa kaliwang bahagi ng tenga at inilapit sa dalawang bata. Nag-uunahan naman ang dalawang ipagkasya iyon na ipitin sa tenga niya. Ilang ulit akong napalunok nang tumawa si Sulli habang nasa tenga niya na ang dalawang bulaklak.

It does suit him.

“Bagay ba?” Tanong niya pa sa dalawang bata. Tumango-tango ang dalawa.

“Bagay.” Sagot ko rin kahit hindi ako ang tinatanong. Naiinis na tumingala saakin si Sulli.

“Ikaw ba ang kinakausap ko? Alis nga.” Pinanlakihan niya ako ng mata at napangiwi naman ako sakaniya.

Sungit! Sinabi ko na’t lahat-lahat ang mga nararamdaman ko, mas lalo pa akong sinungitan! Kainis! Porke maganda siya!

“Eto po, oh. Baka naiinggit si kuya.” Pareho kaming natigilan nang abutan rin ako ng bulaklak nung batang itinulak ang kasama niya. Matutuwa na sana ako kahit sinabi niyang inggit ako pero ang inaabot niya saaking bulaklak ay lantay na!

Pilyo!

Kukutosan ko na sana iyong bata nang malakas na humalakhak si Sulli at kinuha ang ibinibigay na bulaklak ng bata. Tumayo siya at natatawa pa ring humarap saakin. Halos kitang-kita ko na ang kumikinang niyang tongue piercing dahil sa laki ng ngiti niya. Sumisingkit ang mga mata niya at namumula pa ang mga pisnge niya. Ilang beses akong napalunok nang lumapit siya saakin at siya mismo ang naglagay ng bulaklak sa tenga ko. Bagay na bagay nga sakaniya iyong dalawang bulaklak.

“Bagay.” Ngisi niya saakin. Natulala ako sa mukha niya. Suot niya ngayon lahat ng piercing niya na makikinang pero sa paningin ko ay buong mukha niya ang kumikinang sa liwanag!

“Oooyy! Kinilig!” Matalas kong tiningnan ang mga bata nang sabihin nila iyon saakin. Pareho silang humahagikhik habang nakatingin saaming dalawa.

“Mga leche!” Sigaw ko sakanilang tatlo bago ako nagmamadaling tumakbo paalis roon. Shit! Narinig ko silang nagtawanan!

Lalabas na ang puso ko!

SR

A/N: Kissy-kissy next chap? ems HAAHAHAHAHHA

Rivalry 13

PS:

The total number of their team is 11 minus Owen, kasama na rin doon si Sulli. Hindi ko pa napapakilala yung ibang player and I will be doing it in this chapter.

Vesper’s

“Alak? Akala ko bawal, coach?” Tanong ni Theo nang makarating kami sa isang malaking restaurant dito sa resort na pina reserve ng coach. May mga finger snacks, juice and alcohol sa table. Tumingin kaming lahat kay coach Solis at Owen na ngiting-ngiti saamin.

“Yep, this is for us!” Excited na ani ni Owen. Nagtatanong kaming tumingin sakaniya.

“We will play a game, and this game will require the losers to drink.” Paliwanag niya pa. Natuwa naman ang mga kasama ko dahil sa nabanggit na game pero napailing ako. I’m not really in the mood to play, but I would like to drink. Hindi ko alam kung na reject ba ako kanina o ano. Sulli wasn’t clear with his answers with me. And now I’m overthinking! Nahihiya rin ako, shit.

“What is this game?” Nagtanong si Sulli na katabi si Elias sa may bandang kanan ko. Nakatalikod sila sa pwesto namin dahil medyo nasa unahan sila.

“Never have I ever.” Pinaliwanag ni Owen ang mangyayari sa larong gusto niyang gawin. Coach was also checking up on us and I’m sure Owen was the one who convinced him to say yes to this activity. Siguro sa tingin nila ay magkakalapit kaming lahat sa larong ito.

Kami lang ang tao sa loob ng restaurant, may i-ilang staff na inaabutan kami ng pagkain at ina-assist. Our school is rich, I’m sure they’re the one who sponsored this.

Pinaupo kami ni Owen sa lapag kung saan inayos rin ng staff ang mga alak at pagkain na kailangan sa loob ng bilog na nabuo namin dahil sa pagkakapwesto naming lahat. The eleven of us formed a circle, at ang lokong Owen ay pinapatay pa ang i-ilang ilaw sa loob ng restaurant at naglagay siya ng kandila sa sentro ng bilog.

He’s really into this.

“Sulli, come here.” Inaya ni Owen si Sulli na tumabi sakaniya. Napalunok ako dahil katabi ko rin si Owen. Pinagitnaan ni Owen at Elias si Sulli. Kahit ayaw ko ng pwesto nila ay hindi ako makapagreklamo. Kainis!

Hindi niya rin ako tinitingnan! Panigurado ay parehas ko rin siyang nahihiya sa nangyari kanina sa labas.

“Okay, all of you have your glass of liquor?” Nagsitanguan kami sa tanong ni Owen. “I’ll start the game, pakanan ang ikot.” Nagrereklamo akong tumingin kay Owen sa sinabi niya dahil ang ibig-sabihin lamang n’on ay ako na ang sunod!

Malas talaga.

“Never have I ever.. dated a freshie.” Tagumpay na ngumiti si Owen nang sabihin niya iyon. Halos lahat ng ka teammates namin ay napaungot. Lahat kasi sila tirador ng mga 1st year!

Lahat sila uminom, full shot dahil shot glass ang hawak namin. Ako, si Owen, Elias at Sulli lamang ang hindi uminom. Natatawa ako sakanila dahil umaasim ang mukha nila sa pait ng alak. Pure alcohol kasi, hindi hinaluan dahil punishment nga. 

“Okay, ikaw na, captain.” Udyok saakin ni Jim, isa sa mga teammates ko. Nasa tabi ko siya at siniko pa ako. I sighed and think of something I haven’t done that probably most of them did.

“Oh, may naisip na ako. Never have I ever, got suspended because I partied while wearing my school ID.” Ngisi ko at nagsi-ingayan sila dahil sa alaalang pinaalala ko.

“Huh, did that happen to all of you?” Natatawang tanong ni Sulli nang makita niyang nagsi-inuman ang mga ugok. Tumango sila at sinagot siya ni Donny.

“Celebration kasi namin yun after our class, nanalo ang team namin against an international opposing team. Sa sobrang excited namin ay dumeretso kami sa club nila Arlo kahit naka uniform pa at ID. Ayun, may kumuha ng video saamin habang nag p-party kami, kumalat, nakarating sa Dean, we got suspended.” Natatawa nilang kwento at may mga dagdag pa silang sinasabi na pinagtatawanan namin.

“Where’s captain? Bakit hindi siya na suspend?” Nawala ang ngiti ko nang magtanong muli si Sulli. Nagtama ang mga mata namin at nandoon nanaman iyong mapang asar niyang tingin. Umiwas ako ng tingin sakaniya dahil bigla akong nahiya nang maalala ang ginawa ko kanina.

’Nak ng tokwa naman talaga oh. Bakit ba kasi ako umamin?

“Ang naalala ko ay pareho sila ni Owen wala n’on, magkaaway kasi sila!” Sabi ni Wilbert at natawa rin ako nang maalala ang sinasabi niya.

“Bakit?” Tanong pa ni Sulli.

“Matampuhin kasi si Vesper!” Asar saakin ni Owen at nagbangayan pa kami bago naituloy ang laro. All of them said interesting things they haven’t done but almost all of us did. Kada ganoon ay may naike-kwento sila kay Sulli na tuwang-tuwa sa mga kwento ng mga loko.

“Okay, never have I ever, had a long term relationship.” Sabi ni Elias at lahat sila natawa.

“Wala naman satin nagkaroon ng long term relationship, Elias.” Tawa pa ni Arlo pero natigil sila nang lagyan ng alak ni Owen ang baso ni Sulli na nakangiwi at masama ang tingin kay Elias na tinatawanan siya. Nag-a-asaran sila ng tingin! Banas, sa harap ko pa!

“I had a six years relationship with Sebastian, the actor you saw I’m with before.” Pag-amin niya at bago pa man siya tumungga ng alak ay madami na agad ang tanong ng mga ugok.

“Ha?! Sebastian yung action star?” Gulat na tanong ni Donny. Wala nga pala sila nung nakita namin ang artistang yun. Tumango naman si Sulli.

“Edi fifteen ka pa lang, boyfriend mo na siya? Or fourteen?” Tanong ni Julian.

“Fifteen, we just broke up two months ago.” Sa wakas ay nainom niya na ang alak ngunit nagtanong pa rin sila. Nakikinig lang naman ako dahil interesado rin ako malaman ang mga isasagot niya.

“Ang bata niyo naman nagkakilala, how did that happen?” Elias asked again. So, hindi pa iyon nai-k-kwento sakaniya ni Sulli kahit lagi silang magkasama?

“Long story, but to make it short, he only used me so my father can favor him. Ang akala ng Papa, best friend ko siya. But we were together since I was fifteen, we broke up because I found out he doesn’t really love me.” Hindi na ako nagulat na sinabi niya iyon sa harap naming lahat. Kanina pa kasi kwento nang kwento ang mga ka teammates ko sakaniya, I guess he decided to tell his story too.

“Ang gara, ang tagal niya nagsinungaling, six years?” Parang hindi nila makapaniwalang ani. Natatawang napailing lang si Sulli at itinaas pa ang baso niyang walang laman.

“That’s why I’m here in the Philippines! To forget about him and start a new life!” Sigaw niya at naghiyawan naman sila para suportahan si Sulli. Napailing akong napapangiti. May mga tama na sila.

“My turn! Never have I ever, had sex!” Sigaw muli ni Sulli at lahat sila nagreklamo dahil lahat kami ay nagawa na iyon. Pero ako ay agad na nagtanong dahil sa gulat.

“You were in a long term relationship but you haven’t had sex?” Taka ko ngunit kumakalabog ang dibdib ko sa hindi ko malamang dahilan. Napatingin naman sila kay Sulli dahil sa tanong ko. Sulli looked at me. Tipid siyang ngumiti bago tumango.

“Seba didn’t touch me like that. Maybe I wasn’t attractive enough—” Hindi niya natapos ang sasabihin niya nang putulin siya ng mga ugok.

“That’s bullshit! You are so attractive!”

“Oo nga, kala nga namin babae ka nung una, diba?”

“Baka guilty lang ’yon sa panloloko sayo kaya ’di ka na hinawakan nang ganon.” Si Owen.

“You are pretty and sexy, Sul.” Si Elias at natigil kaming lahat lalo na ako bago pa nag-ingay ang mga loko at inasar silang dalawa.

“Sus! Dumada-moves!”

“Ikaw ha, nahahalata ka na namin!” Inasar nila si Elias at tumawa lang ang loko. Aba’t, hindi man lang nag deny!

“Ano na? Ikaw na ulit!” Inis kong tinuro si Owen na siya na ang sunod dahil hindi na nanaman nakapag pigil ang inis ko. Humagikgik pa sila saakin pero sinamaan ko lang sila ng tingin.

“Iba naman. Truth or dare!” Sigaw niya at naghiyawan sila except sakin. I don’t like this game anymore!

---

Sulli’s

“Goodnight! Byee!” Lasing kong paalam sa mga ka teammates namin na lasing rin na kumakaway saakin bago sila pumasok sa kani-kanilang kwarto. Natutuwa akong pumasok sa kwarto namin ni Vesper na kanina pa nauna saakin. Napasaya kasi ang usapan at asaran namin ng buong team kaya anong oras na kami lumabas ng resto na iyon. I am so happy because I get to know them more deeply and they also get to know me more. Masaya sila kasama.

Nang makapasok ako sa kwarto ay nakita ko agad si Vesper na natutulog na sa kama niya. Ang buong kwarto ay amoy sabon. Naligo siguro siya bago natulog.

Dederetso na sana ako sa kama ko para matulog ngunit naisipan ko rin na maligo dahil nanlalagkit na ako. Para na rin mabawasan ang kalasingan ko.

I quickly took a warm shower. Habang nahihimasmasan ako sa loob ng shower ay pumapasok sa isip ko ang nangyari saamin ni Vesper sa pampang. He freaking told me he likes me. It made my heart race so fast I didn’t even know how to properly address it. I panicked and told him not to like me. Sinira niya ang plano kong maging close friend kami!

Napabuntong-hininga ako. Hindi pa rin ako naniniwalang gusto niya ako. Maybe he’s only attracted to how I look, pero hindi na malalim iyon. Naiinis ako sakaniya. How can he say he likes me when he was bullying and making fun of me since I got here? Hindi na dapat siya umamin! Maybe he’s lying!

Sa inis ko ay tinapos ko ang pag ligo ko. Nagsuot ako ng bathrobe at inis na lumabas ng bathroom. Nagkagulatan pa kami ni Vesper nang makita ko siyang nakaupo sa gilid ng kama niya at umiinom ng tubig. Napakurap-kurap siya saakin at mabilis naman akong lumapit sakaniya. Napaatras pa siya at tinuro ako.

“D-Don’t get near me. I told you that already.” Saway niya pero hindi ako nagpapigil at inis akong tumayo sa harapan niya. Nanlalaki naman ang mga mata niya saakin na halatang nagtataka sa ginagawa ko.

“Take it back.” Seryoso kong sabi.

“Ha? Ang alin?” Taka niya. Ibinalik niya sa nightstand sa katabi ng kama niya ang hawak niyang baso ng tubig.

“Say you don’t really like me, you just said it to make fun of me again. Take it back, Vesper.” Ani kong muli. Mas lalo siyang nagtaka saakin at napailing pa ang ulo niya.

“Sulli, go to sleep. Lasing ka pa.” Saway niya at itutulak sana ako papunta sa kama ko ngunit hinuli ko ang mga braso niya. Muli siyang tumingin saakin. I also just stared at him with seriousness on my face.

“I don’t believe you really like me, Vesper. Siguro ay gusto mo lang ang itsura ko, but you’re not really into me, right? Tell me I’m right.” Pagpupumilit ko. I don’t want to overthink about his confession! Matagal siyang napatitig saakin bago niya marahang kinuha ang hawak-hawak kong braso niya.

“Sulli, I also don’t want to like you. But I can’t do anything about it, can’t I? Just go to sleep.” Mahinahon niyang sabi at naninibago ako roon. Ganito ba siya kapag inaantok? He’s not acting so silly like he usually does.

“I’ll kiss you, touch you, and tell me if you really like it.” Desidido kong sabi at nagulat siya roon. Pinigilan niya akong makalapit sakaniya. Nagkatitigan kami.

“Hey, ganito ka ba pag lasing? Stop it.” Saway niya ulit. Umiling-iling ako. I’m sure he won’t like it. Gusto niya lang ang itsura ko, he doesn’t really like me. He was so against my sexuality, napaka imposible naman na bigla niya akong nagustohan. Siguro ay naguguluhan lang siya. We can’t be awkward with each other, pareho kaming nasa starter line up and we need to be comfortable with each other! Hindi ako papayag na mangyari ito sa team, lalo na ngayon na komportable na kaming lahat sa isa’t-isa. Kami na lamang ni Vesper ang may problema.

“I’m not drunk anymore, nakaligo na ako. I just need to confirm something.” Pilit kong inilapit ang mukha ko sakaniya at nagmamatigas niya namang inilalayo ang katawan ko.

“Sulli! Stop it!” Mahigpit ang hawak niya sa magkabilang balikat ko at halata ang pagpa-panic sa mukha niya. Natuwa ako roon at itinigil ko ang ginagawa.

“See? Wala pa man ay ayaw mo na. You don’t like me, Captain.” Ngiti ko sakaniya at para akong nabunutan ng tinik sa dibdib. Natulala naman siya sa mukha ko habang mahigpit pa rin ang hawak sa magkabilang balikat ko. Nakangiti pa rin ako sakaniya ngunit nawala iyon nang marahas niyang ipagpalit ang pwesto namin.

“Ay!” Tili ko nang ihiga niya ako sa kama niya habang mahigpit pa rin ang hawak saakin. Gulat akong napatitig sa mukha niyang halata ang pikon habang kinukubabawan niya ako at magkalapit na ang mukha namin.

“You think I don’t want it? Sullivan, I just don’t want to repeat the same mistake when I first kissed you. But you’re really..” Napapikit ako nang ilapit niya saakin ang mukha niya at malalim siyang humangos habang nakapikit na parang inaamoy niya ako. “You’re really so fucking good at making me the worst guy inside this room.” Pareho kaming napahangos pagkatapos niyang sabihin iyon.

“Vesper..” Tawag ko sakaniya. Kinakabahan ako. Sobrang kinakabahan ako sa tono ng boses niya ngayon. My heart is beating so fast and it’s so loud. I have never seen him this fucking serious. Ayaw ko man aminin, but he looks so fucking hot when he’s pissed.

He stared at my face before speaking.

“You want to confirm if I really like you like that? Fine. But don’t tell me you didn’t ask for this, Sulli.” Ani niya bago hawakan ang mukha ko gamit ang isa niyang palad at parehong bumuka ang bibig namin para salubungin ang isa’t-isa. He claimed my lips and I wasn’t against it at all.

Amoy na amoy ko ang lalaking-lalaki niyang amoy habang marahas kaming naghahalikan. We were kissing with tongue and all. Hinayaan ko ang lahat na mangyari dahil nagugustohan ko iyon. He’s so fucking good at kissing. I don’t know if I am really just drunk, or I really like his mouth on me right now.

Am I fucking pent up?

“Hmm..” Ungot ko nang sipsipin niya ang dila ko at tuluyan niyang daganan ang buong katawan ko. Hindi mapatid ang halikan naming dalawa. Parehong sabik. I can even hear the sound of our kissing. Ang tamis ng labi at dila niya, ang sarap niyang halikan. Despite of his foul mouth that was always saying shitty things to me, I didn’t expect that his lips are this good. Halos ilang segundo lang kaming mapaghiwalay para humangos bago muling nagdidikit ang mga labi namin.

Mahigpit ang hawak ko sa magkabilang balikat niya habang ang isa niyang kamay ay hawak pa rin ang mukha ko at ang isa naman ay nasa bewang ko.

“Vesper..” Reklamo ko dahil hindi na ako nakakahinga. He’s eating my mouth! Hindi siya natinag at parang gutom na gutom niya akong hinahalikan. I couldn’t do anything but kiss him back with the same force and hunger. I don’t want to like this, ang isip ko ay tutol sa nangyayari ngayon ngunit ang buong sistema ko ay gustong-gusto ang ginagawa niya saakin.

I thought Sebastian was the best kisser. Oh boy, I was so wrong. Vesper Magnus is an expert. 

“Ves… ha..” Hangos ko nang sa wakas ay bitawan niya ang mga labi ko. Namumungay ang mga matang nakatingin siya saakin ngayon habang dinidilaan ang sarili niyang labi. Magulo ang buhok niya na parang bagong gising at ang mukha niya… fuck! He looks so handsome right now. Isama pa na namamaga na ang mapupula niyang labi dahil sa halikan namin. His expressions.. fuck. Parang iyong mga lalaking hindi na makontrol ang tawag laman nila. He looks so horny right now, and I’m slightly hoping that I don’t look the same! Muli kaming parehong napalunok habang magkatitigan at ilang segundo lang ay agad na nagsalubong muli ang mga labi namin.

I can’t get enough of it, alright! He looks so freaking hot right now. Nawala ang lahat ng pagka immature sa katawan niya and I just realized he’s really a man! A freaking gorgeous man who likes me!

Damang-dama ko ang katawan niyang malaki. Ang marahas na hawak niya sa maliit kong mukha na parang kahit anong oras ay handa siyang lunukin ako ng buo! His hands are big and rough, nakahawak siya sa bewang ko habang nagsasalo kami sa laway. We were sucking each other’s tongue and lips. We both can’t get enough of it until I felt his hands on my chest.

Dahil nakasuot lamang ako ng bathrobe ay mabilis niyang naipasok ang kamay niya roon. He caressed my chest and even pinched my nipples.

“Ah..” Pareho kaming nagulat nang mapaungol ako nang malakas dahil nilaro niya ang dibdib ko. Doon ako natauhan at agad ko siyang naitulak nang maramdamang naninigas na ang ari ko.

Shit! Shit! Shit!

What am I doing?!

“That was hot.” Narinig kong komento niya nang makatayo ako sa kama niya. I looked at him at hingal siyang nakasandal ngayon sa bedrest ng kama habang namumungay pa rin ang mga matang nakatingin saakin. Napapalunok sana akong i-iwas ng tingin nang mahagip ko ang nasa pagitan ng dalawang binti niya. Nakasuot lamang kasi siya ng boxer shorts at nanlaki ang mga mata ko nang makita ko ang bakat na bakat niyang ari doon.

“Freaking Vesper! Pervert!” I panicked and pointed at his crotch. Ang laki n’on! I already saw Sebastian naked even tho we haven’t done it. Malaki ang sakaniya, pero nakatago pa nga lang kay Vesper ay ganito na kalaki! Paano na kung walang nakaharang?

Nag-init ang buong mukha ko at nahihiya akong napapikit.

Fuck! Pinagnanasaan ko ba siya?!

“You think I won’t react with that fucking kiss? That was the hottest kiss ever, Sulli.” Mayabang niyang sabi at tumayo pa sa kama para lapitan ako. Mayabang pa rin ang mukha niyang nakatingin saakin bago inginuso ang bakat niyang kalakihan.

“So, is this enough proof that I really like you? Do you believe it now?” Asar niya saakin at pikon ko siyang hinarap. Ang yabang!

“No! Everyone can get hard because of me! Goodnight!” Mayabang ko rin na ani bago ko siya tinalikuran at humiga sa kama ko. Nagtalukbong ako ng kumot sa buong katawan habang nahihiyang kinakastigo ang sarili dahil sa hinayaan kong mangyari at lalong-lalo na sa napagtanto ko ngayon.

Narinig kong natawa siya ngunit hindi ko na siya narinig na nagsalita. Naiiyak akong napapikit at gustong sampalin ang sarili.

I think I’m also into him. Not his whole personality, but his body!

I can’t believe na pinagnanasaan ko talaga ang isang Vesper Magnus. I think I’m a fucking pervert!

SR

A/N: Saan a-abot ang pagnanasa ng isang virgin na Sulli? We’ll see

🤭

Rivalry 14

⚠️

Long ass chapter and R18

:>

Alas dose ko pa ’to sinulat, now lang ako natapos mag edit lol. Errors ahead!

Vesper’s

Nakatulala ako sa kisame habang hindi ko mapigilang mapangiti. I’m caressing my lips while thinking of what happened last night.

We kissed. Me and Sulli. Hindi lang ako ang humalik sakaniya, naghalikan kami. We both wanted it and I felt it, lalo na kung paano siya manlaban ng halik saakin. He also wanted it, hindi lang ako.

Mas lalo akong napangiti at tiningnan ko pa ang kama ni Sulli ngunit wala na siya roon. Tinakasan na ako. I’m sure he’s embarassed. Hindi tuloy mawala ang ngiti ko kapag naalala ko kung gaano kasarap halikan ng malambot niyang mga labi. His lips are kissable but small, bagay na bagay sa medyo malaki kong mga labi. He has the softest lips I’ve ever tasted. I don’t know if it’s the lips or his whole mouth, but I can’t get enough of it last night. Kung hindi lang siya natauhan ay baka hanggang ngayon ay naghahalikan pa rin kami. Wala sana akong balak bitawan ang mga labi niya kagabi.

Now I’m really regretting our first kiss. Dahil kasi sa galit ay hindi ko masiyadong napansin kung anong lasa ng mga labi niya. I just remembered that his skin and lips are so soft. Nakagat ko ang labi ko nang maalala ko rin ang ginawa ko sa dibdib niya. Wala naman siyang umbok roon, but I can’t help but caress it and play with his little bud. I know he’s sensitive in that place.

“Shit..” Mura ko nang makitang nabuhay nanaman ang alaga ko habang iniisip si Sulli at ang mga ungot niya kagabi. I’m fucking doomed. I really like that guy. Napabuntong-hininga ako.

Wala naman talaga akong balak gawin sa nararamdaman ko para kay Sulli. Nag-usap na kami ni Owen and I gave him my word, but Sulli is really making me want him so bad. His ignorance about my adoration of him is making me nuts. Umamin na ako’t lahat ay hindi pa rin siya naniniwala saakin.

Now I’m confused of what I’m gonna do with Sulli. Ano rin kaya ang iniisip niya saakin? I’m sure he doesn’t like me because of what I did, but the way he kissed me last night, I don’t know anymore.

Natigil ako sa pag-iisip nang may bumukas ng pinto ng kwarto.

“Sulli— Oh, nasaan si Sul?” Tanong ni Owen na hawak-hawak ang selpon niya. Napalunok ako at nagkibit-balikat.

“I don’t know. He was gone when I woke up.” Sagot ko at pinagmasdan niya ako. Shit. I just hope Owen won’t get mad when he finds out what happened to us. Ayaw ko rin malaman niya!

“Someone keeps texting my number, saying I’m freaking Sulli.” Reklamo niya at lumapit sa kama ko. Umupo siya sa gilid at kunot na kunot ang noong tumitipa sa selpon niya. Natawa ako nang maalala na ibinigay nga ni Sulli ang number niya sa isang amerikano. Tumingin naman saakin si Owen.

“What?” Tanong niya. Umiling ako.

“Nothing. You should ask Sulli about it.” Tanging sagot ko at napabuntong-hininga naman siyang tumango.

“Alright. Let’s go downstairs, gutom na ako.” Aya niya kaya mabilis akong tumayo. Nagbihis lang ako at naghilamos bago kami sabay na bumaba ng lounge.

---

MAghapon kong hindi nakita si Sulli. No, maghapon niya akong tinaguan. I just knew that brat run as fast as he can whenever he sees my shadow. Maghapon kaming free at ngayong gabi lang may pinapagawa si coach kaya hindi niya na ako matataguan. Eto nga ako ngayon sa labas ng hotel kung nasaan ang i-ilang teammates ko at hinihintay namin ang iba pa para masimulan na namin ang gagawin.

“Hindi ka mapakali, Cap?” Bigla akong tinabihan ni Julian. Napahilamos ako sa mukha. Well, I’m starting to get irritated with the situation I’m in. Kung kailan tinatanggap ko na ang pagkagusto ko kay Sulli ay doon niya naman ako napiling pagtaguan. What the hell is wrong with him? Does he not like me? Am I freaking ugly?

“Jul, look at me. Do I not look attractive?” Tanong ko sakaniya at tumayo pa ako sa harapan niya. I’m only wearing a jersey short and a white shirt. Nagtataka naman siyang tumingin saakin bago sumagot.

“Ikaw ang pinaka ma appeal saamin, Captain. Bakit?” Taka niya. Umiling ako.

“Not appeal, hindi ba ako gwapo? I’m not attractive?” Pagpupumilit kong tanong. Mas lalong kumunot ang noo niya at ilang segundo siyang natahimik bago sumagot.

“C-Cap, nakakailang naman kung sasabihin kong p-pogi ka at attractive. Hindi ako bading.” Mahina niyang sabi kaya ako naman ang napatitig sa mukha niyang hindi makatingin saakin. Napakurap-kurap ako bago ko siya binatukan.

“Loko, I’m just asking. Kahit naman ata lalaki ka ay makikita mo pa rin ang kagwapuhan ko.” Mahangin kong sabi bago ako umalis sa harapan niya. Hawak-hawak niya naman ang batok niyang napanguso saakin. Well, hindi na dapat ako nagtanong. Alam ko naman na ang sagot roon. Sulli is just weird. He can’t see I’m more attractive than that cheating ex of his. Gwapong-gwapo siya ron? Sus. May lahi lang yun!

“Bakit ba kasi?” Tanong pa ni Julian kaya napabuntong-hininga ako bago ko siya sinagot.

“Someone is not getting attracted to me, and I want that person to be.” Mahina ko rin na sabi. Sa lahat ng mga ka teammates ko. Si Julian ang hindi ma chismis kaya alam kong hindi niya ito ipagkakalat. Si Owen sana, pero iniiwasan ko ngang malaman niya ang ginawa ko kay Sulli kagabi.

“Nako, madali lang yang problema mo. Pakitaan mo, Captain.” Tumaas ang boses niya at inakbayan pa ako kahit na mas matangkad ako sakaniya. Tiningnan ko naman siya nang nagtatanong.

“Paanong pakitaan?” Taas-kilay ko sakaniya. Ngumisi siya saakin.

“Mga moves mo sa kama. We all know you are good in bed, base sa mga babaeng nagkakandarapa sayo pagkatapos ng one night stand nila sayo. So, make this person have a little taste, sure akong magkakandarapa rin iyon sayo pagkatapos.” Pilyong niyang sabi. Napairap ako at muli siyang binatukan.

“Aray naman!” Reklamo niya.

“Ano ako? Manyak?” Irap ko sakaniya pero sa utak ko ay pinag-i-isipan ko na ang sinabi niya.

How can I do that without forcing myself to Sulli?

---

Sulli’s

Kagat-kagat ko ang labi ko habang titig na titig ako sa nagsasalitang si Owen sa harap ko. I know Vesper is staring at me that’s why I can’t move my head! Maghapon ko kasi siyang iniwasan para hindi namin mapag-usapan ang nangyari kagabi. I’m still so ashamed of myself. I can’t believe I liked it and I wanted more kung hindi lamang ako natauhan. Fuck. How come I’m suddenly so attracted to his body? Ganon na ba akong klaseng tao? Fuck this. Kasalanan niya itong lahat.

“So this is the game. Tagu-taguan or hide and seek, kung sino man ang hindi makita after an hour, siya ang panalo. If wala, yung seeker na maraming nahanap ang panalo. The price is you can have one wish that all of us can’t say no to.” Nakangiting paliwanag ni Owen habang nasa tabi niya si Coach na tumatango-tango.

“Ano naman magagawa nito para sa team building natin?” Taka ni Elias. Iyon rin ang tanong ko sana.

“May twist syempre. Kung sinong makahanap ng nagtatago, pwede siyang magtanong doon sa nahanap niya ng kahit ano and they can’t lie for the answer, or kung wala naman siyang maitanong, kailangan mag share nung nahanap ng pinaka deepest secret niya.” Bigla akong kinabahan. Sana ay hindi ako yung magtatago, I don’t know how to play this game!

“Ayos-ayos.” Natutuwang sabi nila. Hinati kami ni Owen. Binilang niya kami sa 1 and 2. Ang 1 ay ang maghahanap, ang number two ay siyang hahanapin. Napapikit ako nang maging number 2 ako. Fuck.

“Hide somewhere I won’t see you. Or you are dead.” Nagtaasan ang mga balahibo ko nang may mahinang boses ang bumulong saakin niyon mula sa likod ko. Hindi ko na kailangan pang lumingon para malaman kung sino ang bumulong saakin. Kilalang-kilala ko ang boses ni Vesper.

“Okay! The seekers will give you five minutes to hide, go now!” Mabilis pa ako sa alas kwatrong tumakbo palayo roon habang papaiyak na.

Fuck you, Vesper! Hinding-hindi mo ako mahahanap!

Tumakbo ako sa pinaka madilim na parte ng resort. May malalaking bato roon at medyo malapit sa pampang. May i-ilang puno ng niyog pero wala masiyadong ilaw kaya walang mga tao. Hingal akong naghanap ng pinaka malaking bato at doon ako nagtago sa likod niyon.

Umupo ako sa buhangin at hinabol ang hinangos ko. Napagod ako kakatakbo para makalayo lang sa parang demonyong bumulong saakin kanina!

Shit. Sana ay hindi niya ako mahanap, ayos lang kung iba ang makahanap saakin, wag lang siya!

Sumilip ako mula sa malaking batong pinagtataguan ko at napangiti nang walang ibang taong papunta sa pwesto ko. Bumalik ako sa pagkakaupo sa buhangin at sumandal sa malaking bato. Ilang minuto akong napatulala bago ako nakaramdam ng takot sa lumulukob na dilim sa paligid ko. Iwinaksi ko iyon pero mas lalo akong kinabahan nang marinig ko ang mga alon malapit sa pampang at pakiramdam ko ay iyon lamang ang naririnig ko sa gitna ng kadiliman.

Shit naman Sulli, you can’t be scared right now! Mas matakot ka sa kumag na iyon!

Humangos ako at pumikit. Fuck. Ngayon ko lang napagtanto na sobrang layo ko na sa may mga taong parte ng resort. Wala rin talagang ilaw rito, tanging buwan ang nagbibigay liwanag. Nakagat ko ang labi ko at bumilis ang paghangos ko nang may marinig akong kaluskus. Pilit kong kinalma ang sarili ko dahil masiyado na akong matanda para matakot pa sa dilim!

No, I really hate darkness.

Ayaw ko man maalala ngunit ayaw ko sa dilim bata pa lamang ako. I thought I have already overcome it, I guess not. Naaalala ko ang malaki naming mansyon sa Canada. I’m an only child before Sevan and Sebastian came. Palagi akong mag-isa sa mansiyon bago sila dumating, kasama ko man ang mga katulong namin ay hindi naman nila ako kinakausap o tinatabihan kung wala akong i-u-utos. Dahil sobrang laki ng bahay namin, masiyadong tahimik kapag gabi, masiyadong madilim ang i-ilang sulok na hindi iniilawan dahil walang gumagamit. That’s where I started hating the darkness.

Hindi ko namalayang umiiyak na pala ako habang hinahabol ang paghinga. Hawak-hawak ko ang dibdib ko nang mahigpit habang kinakalma ang sarili. I can’t move anymore. Ayaw kong buksan ang mga mata ko dahil natatakot ako. Gusto kong kutosan ang sarili ko sa nangyayari saakin.

I’m such a freaking child. I hate this.

“Sulli..” Natigilan ako sa pag hikbi nang marinig ko ang boses na iyon. Dahan-dahan kong iminulat ang mga mata ko at imbes na kaba ang maramdaman ko nang makita ko si Vesper na nakatunghay saakin mula sa malaking bato ay tuwa ang bumalot sa dibdib ko. Agad akong tumayo at tumalon payakap sakaniya. I hugged him and I couldn’t stop sobbing again. Ramdam kong natigilan siya ngunit niyapos rin ang katawan ko nang mahigpit.

Suddenly, I felt the safest.

“Ves..” Hikbi ko at mas lalo kong hinigpitan ang pagkakayakap ko sa ulo niya. Halos karga niya na ako.

“Stupid. Why did you hide here if you’re going to be scared?” Hindi pa man ako nag k-kwento ay alam niya na agad na natakot ako kaya’t mas lalo akong naiyak. He said that but his tone is so gentle. Hinihimas niya rin ang likod ko para pakalmahin ako kaya’t kahit papaano ay natigil ako sa pag hikbi. Tiningnan ko ang mukha niya at seryoso rin siyang tumingin saakin.

“You found me. What’s your question?” Lumuluha ngunit kalmado kong tanong. Magkayakap pa rin kami. Mahigpit pa rin ang yapos niya saakin na halos hindi na ako nakaapak sa buhangin. Nag-iba ang mga emosyon sa mga mata niya ngunit hindi ko malaman kung anong klaseng emosyon iyon.

“Do you find me attractive, Sul? Don’t lie.” Nahigit ko ang hininga ko nang mahina niya iyong tanungin. Parang muli akong nabingi at tanging ang mga alon lamang sa pampang ang naririnig ko habang nakatitig ako sa mga mata niyang naghihintay ng sagot. Napalunok ako at napahawak sa magkabilang balikat niya.

“I-I do. Your appearance, your b-body. I find it attractive.” I couldn’t lie. I know he will know if I lie, and I wanted to be honest for some reason. His eyes is making me feel something inside my stomach. What is he doing to me?

Mas lalong humigpit ang pagkakayakap niya sa bewang ko. Ramdam na ramdam ko ang init at laki ng mga kamay at braso niya na nakapulupot saakin. Muli akong napalunok at ganoon rin siya.

“Will you get mad at me if I want you to have a taste of it?” Muli niyang tanong sa mahina niyang boses. Napakurap-kurap ako sa mukha niya at naroon nanaman iyong Vesper na walang ka immature-an sa katawan niya. He looks so serious, he looks so.. horny. Ilang beses akong napalunok at humigpit ang pagkakahawak ko sa magkabilang balikat niya. Even his voice is making me feel something. Gone the whiny and annoying mouth, his baritone voice sounds so sexy to me right now.

So, he can be a man. This is not Vesper, this is Magnus.

“I’m a virgin, Magnus.” Nahihiya kong sabi at umiwas pa ng tingin. Narinig ko ang paglunok niya at napapikit ako nang ilapit niya ang mukha niya sa leeg ko. Nakagat ko ang labi ko nang halikan niya ako roon at amuyin.

“I won’t pop your cherry… not yet. I’ll just show you something. Say yes. Please?” Malakas kong nahigit ang hininga ko nang marinig ko ang nagmamakaawa niyang paghingi ng permiso. Fuck. He sounds so fucking sexy! He’s hypnotizing me!

“Yes. Do something.” I keep saying he looks so horny, but fuck, we are the same. I’ve been feeling this towards him and I can’t deny it anymore. Vesper Magnus is so hot. Hotter than anyone I know.

“Agh..!” Impit kong hiyaw nang bigla niya akong ihiga sa buhangin kung saan ako nakapwesto kanina. Agad na naglapat ang mga labi namin at naroon nanaman ang mapupusok naming halikan. Nakayapos pa rin ang mga braso niya sa maliit kong katawan habang ako ay idinidiin ang ulo niya saakin upang mas lalong lumalim ang halikan namin. I’m using both of my hands caressing his head and pressing it on me. He taste so fucking good. His tonge and saliva taste like a fucking sweet alcohol to me. Nilalasing ako niyon. Inaangat sa kalawakan. I feel like floating while we’re eating each other’s mouth.

“Sulli..” Ungot niya at nakunot ko ang noo ko sa sobrang sarap niyon sa tenga. Fucking hell. He sounds so fucking hot sounding so whiny while moaning.

“Ahh.. s-shit..” Ungot ko nang ibaba niya ang mga halik niya sa leeg ko. Doon niya ako nilantakan at marahas niyang hinubad ang suot kong shirt. Impit akong umungol nang hawakan niya ang dibdib ko at pisilin iyon gamit ang mainit at malalaki niyang kamay. I looked at his face when I noticed he’s staring at my chest. I licked my own lips when I saw the emotions plastered on him.

He likes what he’s seeing. Bahagyang nakabukas ang mga labi niya habang ang mga mata niya ay namumungay na nakatingin sa dibdib ko habang hinihimas iyon ng kamay niya.

“Uh!” Ungol ko nang ipitin niya ng daliri niya ang utong ko. Napapikit ako at narinig ko siyang mahinang napamura.

“You look so sexy for a man, Sulli. So sexy.” Nasabunutan ko ang buhok niya at kagat-labi kong pinigilan ang pag ungot nang maramdaman ko ang mainit niyang bibig na sinakop ang utong ko habang ang isa ay nanggigigil pa rin na hinihimas ng kamay niya.

“Fuck, Ves!” Hindi ko napigilang ungot nang simulan niyang sumipsip roon. Ramdam ko ang tayong-tayo kong alaga at kahit na nasa labas kami ay talagang nag-i-init ang katawan ko sa ginagawa niya saakin. Halos rinig na rinig ko ang pagsipsip niya sa utong ko na parang iniinsulto niya ako sa tunog niyon. I looked at him and I was about to shot him a glare but I couldn’t do anything but swallow my own saliva when I saw him looking at me while cunningly sucking my poor nipple.

Pilyo niya iyong dinilaan nang makita akong tumingin sakaniya. He licked my nipple and slowly put his mouth on the other one while still looking at me. He did all of that while looking at me seductively. Fuck… just fuck!

“Hmm.. I love your nips, Sul.” Sabi niya habang nasa loob pa rin ng mainit niyang bibig ang utong ko. Muli ko siyang nasabunutan at kagat-labing ibinalik ang ulo ko sa pagkakahiga. Kahit nakapikit ay pakiramdam ko ay nakakakita ako ng bituin dahil sa ginagawa saakin ni Vesper.

I’m already shivering when he started caressing my waist with his gigantic hands. Marahas ang haplos niya at ramdam roon ang panggigigil saakin. Napaigtad ako nang maramdaman ko ang malaking bagay na idinidiin niya sa legs ko. Is that his thing?

“Magnus.. please..” Hindi ko napigilang ungot nang bumaba pa ang mga halik niya sa puson ko. Iniangat niya ang tingin saakin habang hinahalikan pa rin ako roon.

“Do you want me to see yours, or do you want to see mine?” Napalunok ako sa tanong niya. I’m really curious how big he is. I have seen an actual dick, Sebastian is big. I also seen a lot of porn actors dick, but right now, I really am curious how Vesper’s thing actually look like. Lagi kasi iyong bakat at masarap rin tingnan ang manipis na buhok sa puson niya sa tuwing umaangat ang suot niyang damit. I always look at it a little longer whenever I see it. Ngayon ko lang napagtanto na dahil nagugustohan ko iyon. Shit. I think I really am a pervert.

I’m sorry, my dear mother from heaven. Your son have become like this because of a good looking bastard.

“Y-Yours. I want to see yours.” Hingal kong sabi habang nakapikit. Naimulat ko lamang ang mga mata ko nang lumuhod siya para hubarin ang suot niyang white shirt. Tumambad saakin ang matipuno niyang katawan at muli nanaman akong napatitig sa buhok sa puson niya. I find it so hot. Fuck it.

“Push me away if I do something you don’t like.” Sabi niya at hindi na ako nakasagot nang muli niyang sapuin ang mukha ko at halikan ang bibig ko. Agad kong naramdamang hinawakan niya ang isang kamay ko at hindi nagtagal ay dinala niya iyon sa bumubukol niyang harapan. Nakagat ko ang labi niya nang ipahaplos niya saakin iyon.

“Sul.. do you know how to jerk someone off?” Tanong niya habang nakapikit at hinahalik-halikan ang bibig ko. Umiling ako.

“I told you.. my ex didn’t touch me like that.” Nahihiya kong ani. Iminulat niya ang mga mata niya at tumingin saakin.

“I’m thankful for that bastard for once.” Bigla niyang sabi.

“Huh?” Taka ko. Umiling siya at muling idiniin ang kamay ko sa ari niyang naninigas.

“You have masturbated before right?” Tumango ako. “Whatever you did while masturbating, do it to me. I’ll guide you.” Sabi niya at nanlaki ang mga mata ko nang ibaba niya ang shorts niya at naramdaman kong humampas sa legs ko ang ulo ng ari niya. Basa iyon. Bumukas ang bibig ko at mabilis kong inangat ang ulo ko para tingnan iyon. Mas lalo pang lumaki ang mga mata at bibig ko nang makita ko na iyon sa wakas. Tanging liwanag lamang ng buwan ang ilaw namin ngunit parang luminaw ata ang mga mata ko.

“Fuck.” Mura ko. It’s not just big, it’s too fucking big. It’s the fucking biggest cock I’ve seen. Maugat, namumula sa galit, cut and neat. Hanggang sa mga bola ay manipis pa rin ang buhok niya. Tayong-tayo iyon at nakatutok sa maputi kong legs. Mula sa puson ay naka konekta ang buhok na iyon kung saan nagsisimula ang hindi ata pantaong ari niya.

“Why the hell is that so big?” Hindi ko napigilang ani. If ever that’s the dick that will pop my cherry, I will fucking die. Good thing he won’t do it! Lihim akong nagpasalamat.

Umungot lamang saakin si Vesper at muli akong hinalikan sa labi bago ngumisi.

“That’s what I wanted to show you. Glad you liked it.” Mayabang niyang ani. Simula ngayon, hindi na ako magtataka kung saan nanggagaling ang kayabangan niya, it’s because may ipagmamayabang ang loko!

“Oh.. warm.” Ungot niya nang dalhin niyang muli ang kamay ko para hawakan ang ari niya. I held it and it’s also warm. I licked my lips and swallowed before moving my hands to jerk him off. Nagulat ako nang duraan niya ang sarili niyang alaga af dinaganan niya ako bigla. Isiniksik niya ang mukha niya sa leeg ko at marahas niyang iginiya ang kamay ko para bilisan ang ginagawa ko. Mahigpit kong nakagat ang labi ko nang maramdam ko ang mga halik niya sa leeg ko habang mahigpit ang mga hawak ko sa malaki niyang ari. I can hear him grunting.

“Sullii..” Naroon nanaman iyong masarap sa tenga niyang ungol. I don’t know why, probably because I’m used of his proud annoying tone that it’s such a turn on to me when he sounds so whiny and needy while calling my name. I feel like he’s at my mercy. Sumasakit na ang puson ko sa ginagawa namin ngayon. He’s also making me feel so horny.

Pabilis nang pabilis ang ginagawa ko sa ari niya at pabilis nang pabilis ang paghangos naming dalawa. Ramdam kong nanghihina siya sa ginagawa ko sa ari niya.

“I w-want to see your face, Captain.” Hindi ko napigilang sabi. Narinig kong ilang beses siyang umungot bago inalis ang pagkakasiksik ng mukha niya sa leeg ko at ipinatong niya noo niya sa noo ko bago ako kubabawan. I swallowed when he looked at me with his sultry eyes that’s full of lust.

“Jerk it off faster. Let me have your saliva.” Hangos niya at hindi na ako nakareklamo nang ipasok niya sa bibig ko ang dalawang daliri niya bago ginamit iyon para basain pa ang ari niyang hawak-hawak ko. Hinalikan niya ako nang mabilis bago ko gigil na itinaas-baba ang kamay ko sa ari niya. Hindi pa ako nakuntento at hinawakan ko iyon ng dalawang kamay ko.

“Fuck! Sullii.. hah..” Diin na diin ang noo niya saakin habang bukang-buka ang bibig niya at pikit na pikit ang mga mata niya. Malalim at maiikli ang mga hangos niya habang umuungot. Kitang-kita ko ang panghihina niya sa ginagawa ko at kung gaano niya iyon nagugustohan kaya kagat labi kong pinagbuti ang ginagawa habang natutuwang pinapanuod kung paano masarapan ang mukha niya.

I can’t believe a big guy like him can be so weak because of a sexual touch, my touch. Vesper Magnus is so hot, I can’t deny it any longer.

“Your mouth, I want your mouth.” Hingal niyang sabi habang hindi ko tinitigilan ang ari niya.

“Huh?” What he said didn’t registered in my head. I only realized what he said when he got on his knees, pulled me from my nape and I was face to face with his big cock. Nanlaki ang mga mata ko and when my mouth opened from shock, he immediately put his hugeness inside my tiny mouth.

“Agh!” Napapikit ako nang sagad na sagad niya iyong ipinasok sa bibig ko. I just knew he already lost control when he started fucking my mouth. Sunod-sunod siyang umulos sa bibig ko at sagad lahat iyon. Mahigpit ang hawak niya sa ulo ko habang nakatingala siyang nilalasap ang sarap ng ginagawa niya. My mouth feel so full because of his hugeness.

“Sulli! Fuck! Fuck! I’m coming!” Mas lalong rumahas ang mga ulos niya at tinanggap ko na lamang ang lahat ng iyon dahil nagugustohan ko ang mga ungol niya na sobrang desperadong makarating sa rurok.

“Ohh.. Shit!” Ibinaba niya ang tingin saakin at nakita ko kung paano madagdagan ang libog sa mukha at mga mata niya nang magtama ang mga mata namin. Inayos niya ang buhok kong dumidikit na sa mukha ko dahil sa pawis habang ganoon pa rin ang mga tingin niya saakin. “Fuck! Fuck!” That’s all I heard when I felt his hugeness swelled up and hot liquid was poured on my throat.

“Sullii..” He moaned with needs while his cock is still deep inside my throat. My nose is almost touching the hair on his lower belly. My eyes are already at the back of my head when I smelled his manly scent. I can also see his face contorted in great pleasure.

Shit. Why do I like this so much? I was never fucked in my mouth before, but if it’s like this with Vesper. I might like it everytime.

Natauhan ako sa delusyon nang maubo ako nang hugutin ni Vesper ang ari niya mula sa bibig ko. Nalunok ko lahat ng inilabas niya at nalasahan ko ang alat at tamis niyon. Agad niya akong hinaplos sa likod at hinawakan sa baba para i-angat ang tingin sakaniya. We both licked our lips when we looked at each other.

“You look so good like this. Eyes tearing up, messy face, messy long hair, and red bruised lips from my huge cock.” Ani niya habang kakaiba pa rin ang tingin saakin. I couldn’t say anything but I know I got so horny from hearing him talk like that.

Vesper Magnus is different from how I knew him. He’s a man, a perfectly fine man who have a huge dick that I just gobbled up earlier.

What the hell have I gotten myself into?

SR

A/N: Sobrang lagpas na ang bilang ng words nito sa usual count ko every chap, pero feeling ko bitin pa rin ako HAHAHAHAHAH sumakit muna ang puson nating lahat katulad ni Sulli

😝

This is the final start of their rivalry sexcapades!

🥰

Rivalry 15

Sulli’s

“Nahuli ka ni Ves? Ano tinanong niya sayo?” Napaigtad ako nang may bumulong saakin mula sa likod. Nakabalik na kami mula sa madalim na parte ng resort na ito kung saan nangyari ang hindi ko inaasahang mangyari.

I just fucking gave Vesper a head. And the worst part, I freaking liked it.

“Why do you wanna know?” Tanong ko pabalik kay Elias. Hindi siya nagsalita. Nagtama naman muli ang mga mata namin ni Vesper at ngumisi ito saakin. Napapapikit akong iniwas ang tingin sa loko. He’s so freaking proud of what he did to me! Shit.

Hanggang ngayon, I don’t even know what’s gotten into me for allowing what happened between us. Am I really that attracted to him? I mean, kung buburahin ang unang ugali na ipinakita saakin ni Vesper, he’s really a good catch. He has the looks, siya ang pinaka gwapo sa team, and I won’t deny it any longer, mas gwapo siya kay Sebastian. He has oozing appeal. His dirty blonde hair makes him look so expensive and hot, siya iyong mga lalaking unang kita mo pa lang, alam mong yayamanin na at hindi mo basta-basta maaabot. Maganda ang tindig niya dahil athlete siya, maganda ang katawan, sure akong maganda ang diet niya at exercise. His height is my ideal height for men. And whenever he’s acting like a real captain to the team, he’s really good at handling us.

Is it really true that he acted so immature towards me because he can’t accept that he’s attracted to a guy like me? Posible naman iyon, dahil straight siya. But what happened earlier, I really think he’s also really attracted to me.

“Hey, tulala ka na. I’m asking you.” Natauhan ako nang muling bumulong si Elias. Nilingon ko siya dahil sa pagtataka kung bakit nasa likod ko siya bumubulong. He’s looking at me like he’s worried or something.

“Ano yun?” Tanong ko.

“I said what happened to your lips? The sides are bruised and it’s so red. Gulo-gulo rin ang buhok mo. You want me to tie it?” Napakurap-kurap ako sa mukha niya at awkward na ngumiti habang umiiling sa huli niyang tanong. Inayos ko ang buhok ko at pinakiramdaman ko ang gilid ng labi ko gamit ang dila ko. I winced when I felt the sting. May sugat nga. Ang laki kasi ng gago!

Nag-init ang tenga ko nang maalala kung gaano kalaki ang nasa bibig ko kanina.

“N-Nadapa kasi ako kanina kakatakbo para magtago. Nauna n-nguso ko.” Pagsisinungaling ko. Kunot-noo naman siyang napatitig lamang saakin. Muli ko siyang tinalikuran at nakita ko si Vesper na papalapit na sa pwesto namin. Shit. Bakit siya lumalapit?

Hindi nga kami sabay kanina bumalik dito sa harap ng hotel sa resort kung nasaan naghihintay sila coach at Owen. Ayoko kasing mahalata nilang may something na nangyari between us! Lintek lang kapag may nakaalam na hinayaan kong mangyari iyon.

“Let’s pair up.” Natulala ako kay Vesper nang makalapit siya at sabihin iyon. Pareho kami ni Elias nagtaka sa sinabi niya.

“Ha?” Taka ko. Napairap siya saamin ni Elias.

“Hindi kasi kayo nakikinig, we are playing another game since maaga pa raw para matulog. Dodge the ball, and I want to pair up with you.” Halata ang pagiging suplado niya habang sinasabi iyon. Ako naman ang napairap sakaniya.

“Ganyan ba dapat sabihin kapag gusto ako maging partner?” Taas-kilay ko sakaniya. Kumunot naman ang noo niya.

“Do you want me to be your partner, Sul?” Napangiti ako nang mahinahong magtanong saakin si Elias. I glanced at him before looking at Vesper na lukot nanaman ang mukha. Sus, ang sungit nanaman, parang kanina lang grabe siya maka dila sa katawan ko.

“No, I’ll be his partner. Because we need to get close for the team.” Si Vesper ang sumagot kay Elias. Hinawakan niya ako sa kamay at akala ko ay hihilahin niya ako pero nagsalita siyang muli.

“I want to be your partner, can I?” Tanong niya sa tonong umaasang papayag ako. Natigilan ako nang bumilis nanaman ang tibok ng puso ko dahil sa inaakto niya.

Shit. I’m losing it. Whenever he’s doing something he doesn’t usually do towards me, my heart is going crazy.

“F-Fine.” Nautal pa ako nang sagutin ko ang tanong niya. Tagumpay naman siyang ngumiti bago ako hinila palayo kung saan kami nakatayo ni Elias. Dinala niya ako sa malapit kila Owen na nagpapaliwanag kung paano namin lalaruin ang game.

“Y-You can let go of my hand now.” Bulong ko kay Vesper dahil nakahawak pa rin siya saakin. Tiningnan niya naman ako sa mukha bago niya tuluyang binitawan ang kamay ko.

“You didn’t have any complaints earlier when I was embracing your body.” Mahinang bulong niya bigla saakin. Pinanlakihan ko siya ng mga mata.

“I swear, I will kill you if you tell anyone about what happened.” Gigil kong bulong sakaniya. He scoffed at me.

“Sure, it’ll be our dirty little secret.” Asar niya pa saakin. Kinurot ko siya sa tagiliran at nagulat ako nang malakas siyang umaray.

“Ow!” Napalunok ako nang matigil si Owen sa pagsasalita at lahat sila napatingin saamin ni Vesper dahil sa malakas na boses ng loko! Bwesit!

“He’s physically abusing me, coach.” Nanlaki ang mga mata ko nang magsumbong pa siya kay coach na nakakunot noo na saaming dalawa. This prick! Muli ko siyang inambahan ng batok pero hinawakan ng loko ang dalawang kamay ko at nakangising lumapit saakin. Tiningala ko siya habang matalas ang mga mata kong nakatingin sakaniya. He neared his face towards mine before saying something that made half the team tease us.

“Hindi porket maganda ka, mananakit ka na.” Nang-aasar niyang sabi ngunit hindi ako nakaimik agad dahil sa kung paano niya iyon sinabi saakin.

This prick.. is really fucking handsome. Kahit nang-aasar siya ay napaka gwapo ng mukha niya. Nakagat ko ang labi ko nang maramdam ko nanaman ang pagbilis ng tibok ng puso ko.

“Uuy, hindi na sila awkward sa isa’t-isa.”

“Basta talaga magaganda, ang hilig manakit ng pogi ’e no.”

“Maganda naman pala ’e, bakuran na yan!” Sinamaan ko ng tingin si Julian nang isigaw niya iyon. Napapangiwi naman siyang nag peace sign saakin. Mga lokong ’to, inaasar pa ako!

“Mga gago, mag seryoso nga kayo.” Saway saamin ni Owen. Inagaw ko kay Vesper ang mga kamay ko habang matalas pa rin ang mga tingin ko sa nang-aasar niyang mukha. Muling nagpaliwanag si Owen at habang nakikinig ako ay napapaisip akong muli.

Is Vesper flirting with me? Is he serious? I can’t believe this. Naninibago ako sa mga galaw niya. Is this the real Vesper that everyone knows? Or am I witnessing another side of him? Kung ano pa man itong ginagawa niya saakin, this is not healthy for my heart!

“By the way, Sul. Your mouth was so amazing, are you sure it was your first time?” Tumindig ang lahat ng balahibo ko sa batok nang bumulong nanaman saakin si Vesper sa nang-aasar niyang tono. I gritted my teeth and elbowed his stomach. Malakas siyang napaungot at napahandusay pa sa buhangin sa sakit ng ginawa ko. Muli kaming naging centro ng atensyon nilang lahat.

---

“Ayusin mo ah, I will literally kick your ass if you say something like that again.” Bulong ko kay Vesper nang pumwesto na kami bilang isa sa mga target nila Owen at Elias. Lima naman kaming magkaka partner sa loob ng malaking rectangle na nakaguhit sa buhangin. The game is dodge the ball, parehong may hawak na bola si Owen at Elias na naka pwesto sa magkabilang dulo ng rectangle at babatuhin nila kami ng hawak nilang bola. Iiwasan naman namin iyon nang katulong ang ka pair up namin, bahala na kami sa diskarte basta huwag lamang matamaan ng bola. If one of the person in the pair up team got hit by the ball, they’re both out. Hanggang sa maging dalawa na lang ang magka partner sa loob ng rectangle, sa puntong iyon ay kailangan sabay na matamaan ni Owen at Elias ang magka pair up para ma out. The remaining pair up will be the winner, and the winner gets to request anything from the coach.

“Alright. Just stand in front of me, don’t move but don’t be stiff.” Nagtaka ako sa huli niyang sinabi ngunit nang magsimula na ang game ay saka ko lamang siya naintindihan.

“Shit!” I was shocked when he lifted me like I weigh nothing. Naipulupot ko ang braso ko sa batok niya nang karga-kargahin niya ako upang maiwasan namin ang dalawang bola na pinagpapasa-pasahan ni Owen at Elias na pinupuntirya kaming lahat. Ngunit hindi roon ang naging atensyon ko kundi kung paano ako hawakan ni Vesper.

Nakapulupot ang mga braso niya sa katawan ko katulad kung paano niya ako niyapos kanina sa tagong parte ng resort kung saan kami gumawa ng milagro. Ilang ulit akong napalunok at napapikit na lamang habang busy at nagsisigawan sila kakaiwas sa dalawang bola.

“Don’t be scared, I won’t drop you.” Ani pa niya saakin. Humigpit lamang ang mga hawak ko sakaniya dahil muli akong nanghihina sa mga yakap niya saakin.

Why does he keep doing this to me? He’s doing this on purpose, right?

“Jim and Simon, Wilbert and Donny, out!” Ibinaba lamang ako ni Vesper nang sumigaw ang coach kung sino na ang natamaan. Kagat labi akong napapalunok habang nakatitig sa buhangin dahil sa hiyang nararamdaman. I can’t fucking believe that Vesper lift me so easily. Tumatakbo pa siya niyan at iniiwasan ang bola.

“Why?” Nagtanong pa ang loko nang mahalata niyang hindi ako umiimik. Tiningnan ko siya nang masama.

“I think there’s something wrong with my body.” Mahina kong ani at nakita ko namang nagtaka siya ngunit masiyadong naging malayo ang isip ko para marinig pa ang sunod niyang tanong.

I get arouse, whenever he touches me.

---

“Coach will be mad at you, come back here.” Mariin akong napapikit nang sabihin iyon ni Owen. Tumawag siya saakin dahil mag-isa ako ngayong umalis sa resort dahil ayokong makasama si Vesper sa i-isang kwarto! Matter of fact, I don’t even want to see him right now!

Shit. I’m going to lose my mind, it’s the first time I’m freaking liking someone else except Sebastian. And freaking worst, I’m in heat whenever I see him!

“I don’t want to. Maaga naman na kayo u-uwi bukas, and Sevan will fetch me. He’s already on his way.” Rason ko pa. Ilang minuto niya pa ako sinermonan bago may pumaradamg puting kotse sa harapan ko. Bumaba ang bintana ng kotse at nakita ko agad si Sevan na malaki ang ngiti saakin.

“Sevan is already here, I gotta go.” Pinatay ko ang tawag kay Owen at agad akong sumakay sa kotse ni Sev.

“What’s gotten into you? Why did you need me to fetch you here? Malayo rin ito sa condo ko.” Ani ni Sevan bago niya paandarin ang kotse. Tunog nagrereklamo siya ngunit kita kong nakangiti siya. Napailing ako at sinandal ko pa ang ulo ko sa balikat niya habang nag d-drive siya.

“Did you miss me, brother? I feel so weird these days, I think there’s something wrong with me.” Ani ko at agad niya namang tinigil ang kotse niya at ipinarada iyon sa gilid ng kalsada. Tinanggal niya ang seatbelt na suot niya bago sapuin ang noo at leeg ko.

“What’s wrong? Are you sick? Is your body hurting? I told you, you should stop playing basketball already.” Napatitig ako sa mukha niya at natawa dahil alalang-alala siya saakin. He’s always like this. Kahit ako ang nakakatanda saamin, he’s always the one taking care of me. Probably because I was raised like an only child before he arrived, kaya hindi ako sanay na ako ang kuya.

“I’m not sick, but something happened that I can’t tell anyone about except you.” Nakagat ko ang labi ko nang pumasok nanaman sa isip ko ang nangyari saamin kanina ni Vesper. Shit. That was really so sudden for me.

“What is it? Is someone bothering you?” Ngayon naman ay dumilim ang mukha niya. I chuckled and laid my head on his shoulder. Natahimik naman siya kaya napanguso ako bago ko tuluyang sinabi sakaniya ang dahilan kung bakit ako nagkakaganito.

“I think I’m finally hitting puberty, at this freaking age, I just felt unlawful lust for the very first time, Sevan.” Mahina kong pag-amin at ilang segundo siyang natahimik bago niya kinuha ang ulo ko at ipinaharap sakaniya gamit ang dalawang palad niya. Nanlalaki ang mga mata niyang tiningnan ako.

“Did you have sex with someone?” Seryoso niyang tanong. Nakagat ko ang labi ko.

“No? I don’t know?” Napapanguso kong sagot. Humigpit ang dalawang palad niyang hawak-hawak ang magkabilang pisnge ko.

“What do you mean you don’t know? Tell me, quick.” I tsked. Parang curious naman siya masiyado at sobrang seryoso.

“I gave someone an oral sex. And worst, it was my freaking rival.” Nakita kong parang natigilan siya sa sinabi ko at lumuwag ang pagkakahawak niya sa mukha ko.

“Why would you do that, kuya? Give me a name, what’s his name?” Nagulat ako nang inis niyang bitawan ang mukha ko at sabihin iyon. Napatitig ako sakaniya bago ako natatawang tinapik siya sa balikat.

“Ano ka ba. Para namang papatayin mo yung tao kung makahingi ka ng pangalan. Nag i-inarte lang talaga ako kasi naiinis ako sa epekto ng buong pagkatao niya saakin, he’s making my body react in a different way, Sev. What should I do?” Napatikhim naman siya sa mga sinabi ko bago napapahangos na nagsalita.

“You like him?” Tanong niya. Natigil naman ako at napaisip.

Do I really like him? Fuck, I really don’t know.

“He bullied me when I first came here in the Philippines, because of the way I look. But he said it’s because he can’t accept that he’s actually attracted to me. That’s why I’m not sure if I like him because we started off as rival. Do you think I should let myself like him?” I asked, hopeful that Sevan will have an answer for me. Napatitig siya saakin bago umiling.

“No, don’t like anyone. Did you forget about what happened with Sebastian? Men will always be men. You don’t need them, kuya.” Seryoso niyang sagot. Hindi naalis ang pagnguso ko sakaniya. He sounds so bitter about men.

“I think Vesper is different from Seba, he actually hates Sebastian. He’s immature most of the times, but he’s also often reasonable. Ugh, not to mention, if he’s not being immature, he’s hotter than Seba.” Napangiti ako sa huli kong sinabi. Naalala ko nanaman kung paano niya dilaan ang katawan ko kanina at kung paano niya dalhin ang sarili niya. I even have flashbacks of his grunting and it really sounds so hot for a man. Shit. I’m really losing it for him.

“Vesper? So it’s the captain of your new team. He looks like he’s up to no good, kuya Sul.” Naiinis akong tumingin sakaniya dahil sa mga sinasabi niya.

“C’mon, I was the one who got cheated on by a guy but you’re the one who hated men more than I do. Ikaw ba? Wala kang nagugustohan? A girl? A boy?” Tanong ko pabalik sakaniya. Gusto ko pa sana tanungin kung paano niya nalamang team captain si Vesper ngunit baka noong nagkita sila sa mansyon ng lola nung huli kaya niya alam.

“I rather focus on my work and with you, kuya. Speaking of, I was the one who suggested for you to be here in the Philippines but you don’t want to stay with me. I’m sulking.” Siya naman ang ngumuso at nakahalukipkip pang tumalikod saakin. He wants me to stay at his place. I rolled my eyes and poked his waist. Nakiliti naman siyang tiningnan ako nang masama.

“Focus with me? You don’t need to worry about me so much, Sev. I’m a grown man, older than you. You focus on your life, and I promise you, I will also have a life here, away from our father.” Nakangiti ngunit seryoso kong sabi sakaniya. Napabuntong-hininga naman siya at tumango na lamang.

“Fine. But kuya, take my advice and don’t fall for anyone again. It will only end bad for you.” Ngiti niya saakin at nagsuot na siya ng seatbelt para muling paandarin ang kotse. Napatitig naman ako sakaniya habang nagtataka kung bakit against siya masiyado sa pagkagusto ko sa ibang tao.

What’s up with him?

SR

A/N:

Hellaur

, sorry sa late UD. Busy lang sa buhay-buhay nyaha

Rivalry 16

Sulli’s

Pumasok ako sa locker room ng gymnasium at ibinaba ko ang mga gamit na dala ko sa harap ng locker ko. I looked around and ako nanaman ang pinaka maagang narito. Maaga kasi akong hinatid ni Sevan dahil may taping raw siya ngayong araw. Nagbihis at naligo lang ako sa condo bago pumunta sa school. It’s Sunday so no one is actually at the University except the utilities and our team. Bukas na kasi ang start ng NQUL.

Hinubad ko ang suot kong shirt para magbihis ng jersey namin. I was rummaging through my locker when I heard the door open. Agad kong tiningnan kung sino ang pumasok and my heart started pounding so fast when I saw Vesper walking towards me. Napapalunok akong napatitig sakaniya.

He looked so serious but what caught me was the bruises on his face near the lips and some scratches on his arms.

“W-What happened to you?” Tanong ko ngunit hindi siya umimik. Tumigil siya mismo sa harapan ko at biglang may inabot saakin.

“Patch me up. I got this bruises because of you.” Napatulala pa ako sa ibinigay niyang first aid kit saakin bago ako muling nagtanong.

“Because of me?” Taka ko. Napabuntong-hininga naman siya at umupo pa sa bench sa gitna ng locker room.

“Those foreigners you gave Owen’s number, they found Owen and things escalated, the whole team got into a fight with them, including me.” Seryoso niyang ani. Nagulat naman ako at umupo sa tabi niya.

“What did coach said? Is everyone okay?” I felt guilty but he just shook his head.

“Ask Owen, but everyone is alright. Can you put ointment on my face now? Please?” Muli akong natigilan at napakurap-kurap nang gamitin niya nanaman ang tonong iyon. Fuck. Why is it hypnotizing me whenever he’s speaking so soft and needy to me? I’m not even kidding, I am really losing my shit.

“Okay.” Binuksan ko ang first aid kit na ibinigay niya saakin at kumuha ako ng ointment and adhesive bandages. Napapalunok kong inangat ang ulo ko at hinawakan ang mukha niya para humarap saakin. Nakatitig lamang siya sa mukha at mga galaw ko kaya pinagbuti kong huwag magpakita ng emosyon. I feel so nervous right now for some reason but I will never show him that.

“Does it hurt a lot?” I asked while putting ointment on his scratched lips. Malaki ang bibig niya, but not in a bad way. It actually suits him a lot. Napalunok ako nang maalala kung paano kasarap humalik ang mga labi niya.

“Yeah. It hurts so much.” Napatingin ako sa mga mata niya nang sabihin niya iyon sa pinakamababang boses na narinig ko mula sakaniya. Even his voice are making me insane now.

“Why did you leave me last night?” Bigla niyang tanong kaya iniwas ko ang mga mata ko. Hinawakan ko ang braso niyang may mga pasa at nilagyan ko rin iyon ng ointment.

“I do not t-trust myself around you..” Mahina kong sagot habang nakatitig lamang sa braso niyang kinakabitan ko ng adhesive bandage. “After what I let you did to me even tho we are literally outside, just beside the shore.” Lakas loob kong pag-amin. I don’t really wanna be so awkward around him. After all, we need to cooperate for our team and I’m not giving it up even after what happened to us. I know we both wanted it, I know we have both given in to our desires. I’m just really shocked to finally find out why Vesper is so amusing to me even tho he’s so fucking mean everytime we meet eye to eye. I think I really have a bad taste in men like what Owen says.

“Did you not like it?” Ganon pa rin ang tono niya. I didn’t look at him and I’m now caressing the bandages I just put on his arms and shoulders. Hindi ako makatingin sakaniya, I don’t want to see how he’s looking at me.

“I did. That’s why it happened, because I liked it.” I stayed honest. Bigla niyang hinawakan ang mga kamay kong nakahawak sa braso niya at itinangala niya ang ulo ko paharap sa mukha niya. Ilang beses akong napalunok nang makita ko ang tuwa sa mga mata niya ngunit may lagkit pa rin doon. His face stayed emotionless but his eyes can’t lie to me right now.

“I loved it, Sul. So much.” Biglang niyang pag-amin. Hindi ako nakaimik at napatitig lamang sakaniya. He neared his face towards me and I immediately shut my eyes closed.

“I even want to do it here again, right now. But I’ll control myself, can you just…” Napapalunok kong minulat ang mga mata ko nang hindi maglapat ang mga labi namin kagaya ng inaasahan ko. Ngunit bumilis ng triple ang tibok ng puso ko dahil sa sinasabi niya. He looked me straight in the eyeu.

“Can we just let things happen on their own? Can you not put a barrier between us? Because honestly, I’m loving whatever this is, Sul.” Napakurap-kurap ako sa sinabi niya sa tonong hinding-hindi ko hihindian kahit na gustuhin ko man. Fuck. He’s cheating when he’s using this tone while he already has this freaking gorgeous face.

“Are you saying we give in to our desires?” I asked while also staring at his beautiful ombre eyes.

“Yes.” I licked my lips at what he answered. Napabuntong-hininga ako at ako na mismo ang humalik sa mga labi niya. Mabilis ko lamang iyong ginawa bago ko siya muling tiningnan. Mukhang mas lalong lumagkit ang mga tingin niya saakin dahil sa ginawa ko. This gorgeous pervert. Tsk. Tsk.

“But promise me that nothing will change between us. You’re still my rival.” I said before giving him a peck and standing up to put my shirt on.

“Whatever you want.” Ani niya kaya lihim akong napangisi.

I don’t know if I’m making the right decision, but I’m also loving whatever this is.

---

“Are you serious? Why would you all do that?” Hingal kong ani habang umiinom ng tubig. Hapon na at tapos na ang practice and Owen finally gave me the full details of what happened to them at the resort. Ang sabi niya ay sila daw talaga ang nagsimula ng suntukan dahil may sinabi raw na malaswa saakin iyong mga foreigner. Inilingan ko sila. Mga lalaki talaga, ang i-init agad ng ulo. They even said na marami rin palang kasama iyong mga amerikano kaya talagang lahat sila may mga galos rin.

“Ang bastos ’e, kung hindi lang dumating si coach, hindi na makakalakad ang mga iyon.” Julian spat. Napairap ako.

“Paano kung na videohan kayo? Panigurado ay hindi na tayo makakalaro sa NQUL bukas.” Sabi ko pa. Pare-parehas naman sila nagrason.

“We can’t just let anyone disrespect any of our teammates, disrespecting one means disrespecting the whole team.” I looked at Vesper who said that coldly. Pinagtaasan ko siya ng kilay at ganon rin siya saakin. I tsked. Typical him.

“Kaya nga galit si Coach, yan rin iniisip niya, na baka nakuhaan kami ng video. But before leaving, we all made sure that no one took a video. Mabilis lang rin iyong nangyari at sobrang aga pa n’on.” I tsked at what Owen said. Uminom muli ako ng tubig bago nagsalita.

“Don’t y’all do that again.” Ani ko sakanila. Nag kanya-kanya pa silang kwento at rason sa mga ginawa nila bago ako napapailing na pinauna na sila sa locker room dahil balak kong magpahuli. I want to shower before going home. Nakita ko pa si coach na kinakausap sila pero hindi na ako lumapit. Nakatunghay lamang ako sakanila and I flinched when one of them looked at me. It was Vesper. He winked at me and I rolled my eyes at him.

Ginawa niya ang pinangako niya. We stayed rival in front of our teammates. Kanina nga lang ay pabiro kaming nagbabarahan sa harap nila, although his words towards me obviously softened. I must say something about that later when I talk to him. Baka mahalata pa ni Owen ang ginagawa naming dalawa.

But what are we even doing? To be honest, I’m anticipating of what will happen next to the both of us. And I know this anticipation of mine is bad, but I can’t help it. Vesper Magnus is making me feel things I know I shouldn’t especially coming from my unwanted rival. I just cannot help it.

Halos kalahating oras na sila sa locker room nang lumabas ako ng gymnasium para may kunin sa locker room ng buong campus. Nakalimutan ko na iniwan ko roon ang gagamitin kong jersey bukas. I’m actually so excited and also nervous for tomorrow.

Nang makuha ko ang kailangan ko ay bumalik na ako ng gymnasium. Nagulat pa ako nang makitang bukas na ang locker room ng gym at wala ng tao.

Did they thought I already go home? Must be. Ipinasawalang bahala ko iyon at pumasok ako ng locker room. I closed it and started undressing myself. Nang nasa harap na ako ng shower ay agad ko iyong binuksan. I closed my eyes when the cold water touched my skin.

“Nice ass.” I almost fell on the ground when I heard a low voice behind me. Balak ko sanang tingnan kung sino iyon nang yapusin ako nito mula sa likod. I stiffened as I felt the other person’s hard chest on my back.

“Are you really this reckless when you think no one is around?” Tumaas lahat ng balahibo ko sa batok nang makilala ko ang boses ni Vesper. His lips are on my nape right now. I glanced at his face and there’s his darkened eyes but ironically adoring.

“Captain..” Tawag ko sakaniya. He didn’t say anything and just stared at my whole face. Tumagal ang mga titig niya sa labi ko at napapikit na lamang ako nang tuluyan niyang sakupin iyon. Our lips met again and we started playing with each other’s mouth.

Nababasa pa rin ako ng tubig ngunit ramdam ko ang init ng katawan niya mula sa likod. Nakayakap pa rin siya saakin at nakagat ko pa ang labi niya nang maramdaman ko ang namumukol na sumusundot sa pang-upo ko. I’m literally fucking naked right now but instead of being embarrassed about it, he’s making me feel something different.

“Sul..” Ungot niya na ikinapanghina ko. Naghiwalay ang mga labi namin at muli kaming nagtitigan.

“Were you purposely taking a peek at me? Naked?” Asar ko sakaniya. He smirked and even put his face on my shoulder while still looking at my face.

“I was just waiting for you because I know you didn’t go home yet. But when you entered, you immediately got undressed and you didn’t even notice me at the corner.” Nahiya ako sa sinabi niya. I really thought no one was around.

“Why were you waiting for me?” Tanong ko pa.

“Because of this..” Nagulat ako nang ipaharap niya ako sakaniya at lumulunok niyang pinagmasdan ang buong katawan ko. Parang gusto ko biglang takpan lahat ng tinitingnan niya ngunit mahigpit ang hawak niya sa magkabilang braso ko.

“Did you know I really hated the way you look, Sul? It’s because you look so fucking good and I can’t help my obvious attraction towards you.” Hindi ko inaasahan ang pag-amin niya. Hindi ako nakaimik nang bitawan niya ang mga braso ko at nagsimula rin siyang mag hubad sa harapan ko. I just stared at him when he pulled his shorts down and he wasn’t wearing any underwear on. My lips parted for a momet when his hugeness sprung free. Nakatutok iyon saakin kaya napaiwas ako ng tingin.

Shit. I think my mouth just got dry. I don’t know why but I really find the hair just below his bellybutton so fucking hot. I think it’s my favorite part of him now. Manipis iyon at kakulay ng ulo niya. His hair color is really natural.

“Won’t someone see us here?” Ani ko nang tumayo siya sa harapan ko. I’m still not looking at him.

“No. I made sure to lock the door.” Pinigilan kong manginig nang simulan niyang hawakan ang dalawang braso ko. Mula sa baba ay hinipo niya iyon pataas sa balikat hanggang umabot sa leeg ko. I bit my lip and I couldn’t do anything but look at his face again when he cupped my face. Madilim ang mga mata niya at halatang may balak siya saakin.

He’s making me feel so fucking nervous and excited at the same time. I can feel my own erection right now.

“You’re so hot, Sulli.” Sabi niya bago ako halikan sa labi ngunit mabilis lamang iyon. He’s just hovering over my face now while looking intently at my eyes. Inis akong napahangos.

“Are we just going to fucking stand around, Captain?” Inis kong tanong at lalo pa akong nainis nang mahina siyang matawa saakin.

“So fucking impatient.” Nagulat ako nang muli niya akong patalikurin at inabot niya ang naninigas kong alaga mula sa pagkakayap niya saakin sa likod. I immediately flinched and tried to get away with him but he held me firm and tight.

“I’m returning the favor you gave me at the shore, stay still.” Bulong niya saakin at agad na lumalim ang paghinga ko nang itaas-baba niya ang mahigpit niyang hawak sa katigasan ko. Fuck. He’s jerking me off.

“Fuck..” Ungot ko bago humarap sakaniya. Agad niya naman nakuha ang gusto ko at muli kaming naghalikan habang hindi niya itinitigil ang ginagawa niya saakin. My back is pressing against his huge body and I can also feel his erection poking at me. Lahat iyon ay nakakadagdag sa sensyasyong nararamdaman ko ngayon. He’s making me feel like this. I can’t believe I will ever find myself doing this with Vesper Magnus.

“Vesper, oh.. Magnus..” I couldn’t hold my moans when he started jerking me off so fast. I heard him groaned when I called his name.

“Call me. Always call me by my name, Sul. I like it so much.” Ramdam ko ang gigil sa pagbitaw niya ng mga salita.

“Oh! Ves!” Impit kong ungol nang kagatin niya ang leeg ko. I hissed. Inabot ko ang buhok niya at nasabunutan ko siya roon habang ang mga mata ko ay pikit na pikit na. Fuck. This feel so good.

“I’m so near. Faster, fuck!” Halos masugat ko ang mga labi ko sa kakakagat roon habang mahigpit pa rin ang sabunot ko sa buhok ni Vesper na hindi ako tinitigilan. If ever he suddenly stop, I might punch him on the face for real. Ngunit parang wala naman siyang balak gawin iyon. He keeps licking and nipping on my shoulder, neck and jawline. I also know he’s watching every reaction on my face. Habang ako ay tutok na tutok lamang sa sarap ng malaki niyang palad na hawak-hawak ang ari ko.

“Fuck! Captain!” I convulsed when I finally came. Agad akong sinalo ng katawan ni Vesper nang manginig ako sa mga hawak niya. I felt so tiny against him and that also made me feel so satisfied. Hingal at lupaypay akong sumandal sakaniya. I bit my lip and looked at him. He’s already looking at me with a smirk on his lips. Tsk. Magyayabang pa ’to panigurado.

“Your cumming face is so hot, Sul.” Komento niya at balak ko sana siyang sagutin nang hilahin niya nanaman ako sa braso. I was stupefied when he push me down and made me kneel in front of him. I came face to face with his huge hardness. my mouth felt dry and I knew I’m going to have a sore throat again.

“Suck it.” The captain said.

SR

A/N: Eto na po

s-suck

na 🧎🏼‍♀️

Rivalry 17

Sulli’s

“For the ninth time, I’m begging all of you not to cause any problems. Para na lang sa school na dala-dala natin, para sa team. Do y’all get me?” The coach said and I know if he can just kneel in front of us so we can promise that we won’t do anything, he’ll do so. Ngayong araw ang simula ng elimination round para sa NQUL, and we are currently on home-and-away format, meaning, each university hosts games in their own gymnasium or sports complex. At ngayong araw nga ay hindi saamin tumama ang swerte dahil sa Silang ang opening. We are now here at Silang University, where our strongest enemies are. Kaya grabe ang pakiusap saamin ng coach na huwag gumawa ng gulo.

“We won’t compromise our chance to win the NQUL, coach. We promise you that. Right, team?” I looked at Vesper when he said that and my lips formed a slight smile. Konti na lang ay iisipin ko na talagang bipolar ang taong ’to. Madalas immature, minsan naman ay umaakto siyang matured and this is one of the times where he really acts like a true team captain. At ang pinaka gusto ko sa lahat ng version na meron siya, the horny Vesper. He acts so fucking hot and sexy that I forget his immature ways to get whatever he wants. Halos nag-i-ibang tao siya kapag malakas ang tawag ng laman. And I love seeing it for myself, especially that I know I’m the reason why he’s acting that way.

“I trust all of you, kayo ang unang maglalaro kalaban ang Valmora University. Have a good game and win it, team.” Ngiti saamin ng coach at nagkanya-kanya kaming tanguan. Marami pa ang sinabi ng coach habang nasa bukana kami ng isa sa mga entrance papunta sa loob ng sports complex ng Silang University Gym. This is an enclosed entrance so they set up lockers and bench for every team to use. Ang alam ko ay merong ganito ang apat na University na dadayo rito ngayon, ang Silang naman ay sa original locker room nila syempre. Mula rito ay naririnig namin ang opening remarks ng emcee sa gitna ng court. Mula sa ingay ay alam kong marami ang audience, halos mag vibrate ang buong sports complex sa sigawan ng mga ito.

Nagsimula naman akong tanggalin ang mga piercing sa katawan ko. Inuna ko ang piercing sa kilay ko kasunod ay sa dila. Sinunod kong itali ang mahaba kong buhok at nakita kong lumapit saakin si Elias habang nakatingin sa ginagawa ko.

“Hey, are you alright?” I looked at him when he suddenly asked me.

“Yeah, why?” Tanong ko.

“You look a little red, especially your neck.” Agad kong nahawakan ang leeg ko bago napakagat sa labi nang maalala kung bakit iyon pulang-pula. Kahapon ay hindi iyon tinigilan ni Vesper kakahalik at kakakagat. Mabuti na lang at marunong magpigil ang loko at hindi ako tuluyan nilagyan ng mga marka sa leeg. I licked my lips when I remember all of what happened yesterday.

“He will live, El. Come on, the emcee is already introducing the players of every University.” Kumalma ako nang lumapit saamin si Vesper at sabihin iyon. Nauna naman na silang lumakad papunta sa bukana ng entrance papuntang court habang sumabay saakin lumakad si Vesper.

“I’ll have you again later. Let’s have a good game.” Namula ako sa una niyang sinabi and I was about to glare at him when he run away chuckling at me. Napailing ako. Pilyo. Abuso!

“And now for our very own University, the team SILANG! Let’s start the introduction of our team captain, SID LLANO, our center TEDDY CASSANO-” Sumilip ako sa labas nang banggitin ang pangalan na iyon. Halos dumagundong ang buong gymnasium nang lumabas si Sid mula sa locker room nila. The bastard is wearing a cocky smile while waving at the audience. They lined up in the middle of the court hanggang sa mapakilala ang lahat sakanila pati na rin ang coach nila. Kami naman ang sumunod na team.

Doble ata ang naging hiyawan nang tawagin ang pangalan ni Vesper. Nagulat pa ako nang mabilis siyang sumulyap saakin bago mayabang na tumakbo palabas ng court at kumayaw rin sa audience. I couldn’t help but smile while rolling my eyes. He look so good wearing his complete jersey. Herrera, jersey number 12, our team captain na hindi lamang mukha niya ang maipagmamayabang, pati na rin ang laro at lalong-lalo na ang tinatago niyang dragon sa loob ng shorts niya.

Humagikhik ako sa kalokohang naisip at napansin naman ako ni Owen na nasa gilid ko.

“Nababaliw ka na? Ikaw na huling tatawagin, bilis!” Napangiwi ako at malaki ang ngiting tumakbo palabas nang tawagin nila ang pangalan ko.

“And lastly their newest player all the way from Canada! Sullivan Turner, jersey number 09!” Hindi ako kumayaw ngunit nag-ingay ang audience. Ang audience galing sa University namin ay malakas ang palakpak at cheer, ang karamihan ay agad akong napag usapan dahil siguro sa itsura ko at katawan. But that didn’t bother me since I’m used to it. Naki linya ako sa team namin hanggang sa ipakilala rin nila si Coach at Owen bilang team manager.

“They said you look like a princess among us. I heard them.” Asar saakin ni Owen nang sumunod siya sa linya. I snorted and chuckled. Well, I don’t play like a princess so they better watch out. Natigil ako sa pag ngiti nang makita ko kung sino ang nasa harapan ko ilang hakbang lamang. It was Sid, he’s smiling with smugness at me. I licked my lips and didn’t bother looking at him again.

Maya-maya pa ay sinabi na kung sino ang team na unang maglalaro. Gumilid kaming lahat at nag ready para lumaro. Umupo naman ako sa bench at sumunod saakin si Vesper. Inaayos niya ang sapatos niya.

“Show them what you got, princess.” Natawa ako sa tinawag niya saakin. Narinig niya rin ba ang mga sinabi nila? May bagong pang asar nanaman saakin ang mga loko.

“Alright, frog prince.” Balik asar ko ngunit natigil kami sa maliit naming tawa nang makitang may kausap si coach at mukhang hindi sila magkasundo sa pinag u-usapan nila. Tumayo kami ni Vesper at lumapit sa komusyon.

“Kung ganito pala ang sitwasyon ay bakit hindi niyo agad sinabi saamin? Edi sana napaghandaan ko.” Halata na nagpipigil ang coach na sumigaw. Ang kausap niya ay mukhang referee.

“I’m sorry, coach Solis. Ang akala namin ay alam niyo, but jersey number 09 is not yet cleared so he can’t play unless he will undergo eligibility clearance. Halos ilang araw lang naman iyon.” Lahat kami ay nagulat sa sinabi niya. Lalong-lalo na ako. I can’t play?

“Wait, what? Eligibility clearance? My teammate is enrolled at Haraya, so why does he need eligibility clearance?” Sumabat si Vesper at hinawakan siya ng coach dahil baka uminit nanaman ang ulo nito. I couldn’t say anything because my insides are already boiling from rage. Bakit ngayon lang nila sinabi? I’m sure they’re trying to sabotage us.

“Hindi pa po isang buwan nang ma enroll siya sa Haraya, kaya nag request ang lahat ng coach sa apat na team na kabilang sa NQUL na kailangan niya muna mag undergo ng eligibility clearance. The management said yes and wala na po akong magagawa kung hindi kayo susunod, hindi po siya makakalaro.” Mahabang paliwanag ng referee at pumito na ito para sa hudyat na pumwesto na sa gitna ang mga players na maglalaro. Narinig kong napamura ang coach ganon na rin si Vesper.

“Panigurado plinano nilang huwag ipaalam saatin ’to.” Ani ni Elias. Ang buong team ay pinapalibutan ako ngayon.

“What now, coach? Are we really going to play their trick? This is not fucking fair.” Hinawakan ko sa braso si Vesper nang magsalita nanaman ito at halatang galit na galit siya. He looked at me and I tried to calm him down. Walang mangyayari kung pare-pareho kaming magagalit.

“Pumwesto na kayo sa loob ng court, Theo can replace me for now. We can’t lose this game.” Mahinahon kong ani kahit sa loob-loob ko ay ang bigat ng dibdib ko sa inis. They’re trying to play us dirty.

“Tama si Sulli. Don’t worry and just win the game right now, ako na ang bahala sa clearance ni Sul, I’ll get it done in two days, max.” Si Owen na halatang naiinis rin but he’s eager to fix the problem. Ganon rin ang sinabi ng coach at walang nagawa ang team kundi ang pumwesto na sa loob ng court. Tinapik pa ako ni Vesper at may sinabi bago umalis.

“I’ll make sure to win the game so we can play at the finals.” Maigi niyang ani saakin at tipid akong tumango.

“Good luck. Have a good game, captain.” Ngiti ko sakaniya at kinindatan niya lamang ako bago pumwesto sa loob ng court. I watched as the play started but I was pulled at the side by the coach.

“Owen and I will immediately fix your clearance. You can stay here or go home and rest if you like. But I suggest you go home, everyone is eyeing you right now. We need to clear your eligibility first before you can go inside the court.” Mahina lamang ang boses ng coach kaya nagtaka ako.

“Why do you want me to go home?” Tanong ko pa kahit may sinabi na siyang rason. I’m just not convinced about it. Tiningnan niya ako sa mata bago napabuntong-hininga.

“Vesper really has a bad temper, hindi lang iyong nakikita mo sa mga practice niyo. He’s worse than that and he will bulldoze his way to get what he wants, and right now, he wants you to play with him. We need to calm him down and it won’t help if he keeps seeing you at the side of the court, just watching them play. Do you get me, Turner?” Lumipad ang tingin ko kay Vesper na tumatakbo sa loob ng malawak na court and it’s true, he keeps glancing at me. At sa bawat tingin niya saakin ay siyang pagdilim ng awra sa mukha niya. He’s pissed.

“Alright, coach. I’ll go home for today.” Pag payag ko sa gusto ng coach. Lumapit pa ako kila Arlo at Donny na nasa bench para magpaalam. I told them to tell Vesper I was alright and I bid my goodbyes.

Lumakad akong dala-dala ang bag palabas ng gymnasium na iyon. Sa isang hallway ako napadaan at gusto ko agad na umatras nang makita ko ang ilang mga estudyante na nagkalat at sa hindi kalayuan ay ang basketball team ng Silang.

Shit. I’m so freaking unlucky today. Napipikon na nga ako sa ginagawa nilang pansasabotahe, mapipikon pa ako lalo sa mga mukha nitong kabilang team. They’re eyeing me right now and I know they’re going to stop me once I neared them. Ngiti pa lang ng lokong Sid ay alam kong wala na siyang gagawin matino. But I can’t just stop walking, my pride won’t let me.

“Pretty boy, it’s been a long time.” Hindi ako nagkamali at agad nila akong pinalibutan. I recognized the four guys that’s with Sid. Ito rin iyong mga kasama niya sa cafe noong una kong pagkakita sakaniya.

“How are you? Felt good when you played with me the last time we saw each other?” He’s smiling while asking me that but I can see that he’s mad. He cornered me and I was against the lockers that was in the hallway I was trying to pass by. Napabuntong-hininga ako at tiningnan siya mata sa mata.

“What do you want?” I asked. He chuckled at me and side eye his teammates.

“Heard that boys? He wanna know what I want.” Hinawakan niya ang pisnge ko gamit ang likod ng palad niya. I didn’t move and just stared at him with nothing but boredom in my eyes. Why is he trying to act like a big bully? To scare me? He won’t scare me. I’m so used of guys like him.

“If you’re going to ask that, you should be ready to give it to us.” Nagsalita ang lalaking nasa likod niya na may nostril piercing at naka buzz cut. Sa pagkakarinig ko kanina ay Teddy ang pangalan niya. Why do they fucking look like they’re in some gang? Nakangisi siya saakin at tumaas agad ang balahibo ko sa mga ngisi niya. What a creep.

“I’ll do that if your face is not hard to look at anymore, bastard.” Nawala ang ngisi niya sa sinagot ko at natawa naman ang kasama nilang tatlo pang lalaki.

“Oh, you wanna be a smartass?” He was about to attack me but Sid stopped him with a look. He couldn’t do anything and just glared at me. I rolled my eyes at him.

“Are you done playing bullies? I really gotta go, I don’t have time for this kind of nonsense.” Iniiwasan kong gumawa ng gulo at agawin ang atensyon nang ibang mga estudyante na dumaraan malapit saamin.

“I’m not playing anything, Sulli. I heard you couldn’t play.” I snickered at what he said.

“As if you didn’t know anything about that. Y’all planned this, didn’t you?” Akusa ko at tumaas naman ang kilay niya saakin. His lips tugged upwards and he softly caressed my hair. Hindi pa rin ako gumalaw para ipaalam sakaniya na hindi niya ako na-a-apektuhan.

“Us? Planned it? We don’t need to do that, we are the reigning champion, we are not scared of some new small forward like you.” Ako naman ang tumaas ang kilay. Reigning champion? It wasn’t Haraya that won last year? Napaisip ako sa sinasabi niya at mukhang napansin niya iyon. I haven’t dug anything about my new team after all.

“Wait, he doesn’t know, captain. What a fool.” I looked at the guy who said that. His name is Quentin according to what I heard from the emcee earlier. May highlights ang buhok niya kaya natandaan ko. I actually memorized their names because I know I’ll be bumping into them one way or another. Sid the bastard captain, Teddy, Jace, Dexter and Quentin. I heard they’re the most powerful delinquents here at Silang. Sila rin iyong sinasabi ni Owen na may kaso ngunit walang pumalag dahil malalakas ang kapit ng pamilya nila.

“He’s new, Quen. He hasn’t seen his captain’s true colors. I pity him.” The one named Dexter said. They all chuckled but I stayed confused. What are they trying to say? Vesper’s true color?

“Sulli, if ever you change your mind about your team, I’ll accept you with open arms.” Hindi ko napigilang pumiglas nang sapuin niya ang kaliwang pisnge ko gamit ang isang kamay niya, ang isa ay nakapatong sa gilid ko upang hindi ako makawala. I glared at him when his grip on my cheeks just tightened.

“Whatever you are trying to say, Sid. I’m not going with any of you. We will fucking win this time.” I’m still confused as to why Haraya didn’t win last year but I’ll ask Owen about that next time. I can’t trust this jerks, if I know they’re just trying to manipulate me into betraying my teammates.

“You can’t even play, baby. Do you want to play?” Hindi ako kumibo at matalas lamang ang mga tingin sakaniya.

“I’ll make sure you will play against us, Sulli. I can’t wait to see what you got.” Nakagat ko ang labi ko at mas lalong pumiglas nang sabihin niya iyon bago mas lalong higpitan ang hawak sa pisnge ko para ilapit saakin ang bibig niya. He sniffed me so hard and kiss me on my cheeks.

“Let go!” Malakas ko siyang tinulak at nagmamadaling lumakad palayo sakanila. I heard them laughing but I was so pissed off already.

I will really make sure to beat their asses when we play against each other. Assholes.

SR

A/N:

Sorry for the late updates, the reason I

didn’t

update for a long time is because I don’t want to write when I’m lazy, hindi kasi maganda ang kinakalabasan ng chapter kapag pinipilit ko that’s why I’m not forcing it anymore. It happened a lot before and I just regretted every chapter I forced myself to write! Kaya bear with my slow update guys. :>

Rivalry 18

⚠️

R-18+ ;>

ERRORS AHEAD kasi antok na me mag edit.

Sulli’s

Lumabas ako ng bathroom habang inaayos ang twalyang suot ko. I just finished showering and my head still feels so hot because of what happened earlier this morning. I hate the guts of that bastard Sid.

Napabuntong-hininga ako at binuksan ang TV upang mapanuod ang game ng Haraya kalaban ang Valmora University. The NQUL every year is featured on the sports channel. Nang makuha ko ang channel na hinahanap ko ay agad akong natuwa nang makitang hindi pa tapos ang laban nila.

“Nice.” I muttered when I saw that my team is leading the score. 79 and 68, Haraya is leading. Habang tutok ang mga mata ko sa panunuod ay nahalata kong madalas mabanggit ang pangalan ni Vesper at madalas rin na itinututok sakaniya ang camera. Every time he scores, the whole crowd screams. I scoffed. What a show off.

“As y’all can see the captain of Haraya is having a good time while playing even tho his newest small forward wasn’t allowed to play today. Am I smelling revenge?” Tumaas ang kilay ko sa sinabi ng isa sa mga commentators.

“I think everyone can smell that right now, partner. Herrera was clearly mad early in the game and he really made sure to win! Another record for Haraya’s new captain.” Nagtaka ako sa huli nilang sinabi. New captain? He wasn’t the captain last year? Kumunot ang noo ko habang nanunuod.

Nabanggit rin saakin kanina ng Sid na iyon na sila ang reigning champion. Should I call Owen and ask? But I’m sure he’s busy. Napabuntong-hininga na lamang ako at tiniis ang curiousity na lumalaki sa isip ko ngayon.

Why did I even forget to ask about my team’s history? I was so busy playing rivals with Vesper at hindi ko man lang inalam ang pinapasok ko. Napailing ako at natigil sa panunuod nang tumunog ang selpon ko. I looked at it and it was my younger brother.

“Sevan.” Agad kong sinagot ang tawag niya.

“I heard you weren’t allowed to play today, kuya. What happened?” Nagulat ako dahil nalaman niya agad iyon. Well, madalas naman niyang alam ang schedules ko sa mga laro. He’s a fan of watching me play basketball. Hindi ko nga lang alam kung paano at kung kanino niya nalalaman ang tungkol sa mga laro ko. Hindi naman kasi siya saakin nagtatanong.

“Yeah, I couldn’t play. I need an eligibility clearance and they just told us that today. I think the opposing teams are sabotaging us.” Nakanguso kong ani habang ang mga mata ko ay nanatiling nanunuod sa TV. They keep talking about Vesper. Is he the crowd’s favorite? He’s famous.

“That’s stupid. Don’t worry, I’ll do something so they can fuck off. I’ll make sure you can play.” Natawa ako sa sinabi ni Sevan. He’s always like this, helping me with every little problem I have.

“No need for that, apat na kayong nagsabi sakin niyan ngayong araw. I think the coach will fix the problem.” Sagot ko. He was silent for a moment before speaking again.

“I will watch your game next time. See you, kuya.” I nodded even tho he can’t see me and we said our goodbyes. Nanuod akong muli hanggang sa matapos ang laro at nanalo ang team ko. Napangiti ako at nag text sa group chat ng buong team ng congratulations. Pagkatapos niyon ay dumeretso ako sa kusina para kumain.

I didn’t do much the whole day. I just played games with my phone hanggang sa makatulog ako nang hapon.

I didn’t know how long I was sleeping when I woke up because I heard someone opening the door of my condo. Agad akong napaupo sa kama at nagtatakang kinabahan.

Does someone know my passcode? Kunot-noo kong pinakinggan ang taong pumasok sa condo ko hanggang sa kwarto ko naman ang buksan nito. Agad kong hinawakan ang lamp shade sa tabi ng kama ko para ibato iyon sa papasok kahit na namumungay pa ang mga mata ko sa antok.

I was about to throw the lamp shade when the door opened but I stopped when I saw who it was.

“Vesper?” Taka ko dahil naka jersey pa siya at may dalang sports bag. Why is he here?

“You aren’t answering my calls and texts.” Sabi niya habang papalapit saakin. Hindi ako sumagot at napatitig lamang sakaniya. Something is off about him right now. His eyes are darkened, he’s not smiling at me nor does his face look like he’s happy and alright. He looks.. mad.

“H-How did you get in?” Nauutal kong tanong. He stopped walking and stood at the side of my bed while looking at me with his not so happy face. What’s wrong with him?

“You didn’t change the passcode, have you forgotten I was the one who found this condo for you?” Ani niya at ibinaba ang suot niyang bag. Napalunok ako dahil mula rito ay amoy ko ang pawis niyang katawan. It doesn’t smell bad, he still smells good but manlier because of his sweat.

“Why do you look mad, captain?” Inalis ko ang kumot sa katawan ko ngunit agad ko iyong ibinalik nang maalalang wala akong saplot nang matulog. Napangiwi ako at naitagilid naman niya ang ulo niya dahil sa nakita.

“Mad? I’m not just mad right now, I’m raging.” Nanlaki ang mga mata ko nang bigla niyang hubarin ang suot niyang jersey shirt.

“H-Hey, what are you doing?” Kinabahan ako agad ngunit nagsalita siya.

“Open your phone and see what’s happening outside. I’ll just go take a quick shower.” Tumalikod siya saakin at nakita ko pang hubarin niya ang suot niyang mga pang ibaba bago makapasok sa banyo. Nakagat ko ang labi ko kung gaano siya ka hot kapag ganitong nagyayabang nanaman ang mga akto niya ngunit hindi ako pinag i-initan. So much confidence. Napailing ako sa sarili.

Owen is right, I think my taste in men is when they’re so full of themselves. I chuckled at what I thought.

Kinuha ko ang selpon ko dahil sa sinabi niya kanina at nakita kong sandamakmak ang chats sa group chat ng buong team. I opened it at chats agad ni Jim ang nakita ko nang mag backread ako.

HU BASKETBALL TEAM

🏀

Jim bangko: *attachments

Loko talagang Sid ’to. Panigurado siya rin ang nagkalat niyan para magpapansin nanaman.

Naibuka ko ang bibig ko nang makita ang mga sinend na pictures ni Jim. It was a picture of me and Sid, in the hallway against the lockers earlier this morning. Hindi ako nagugulat dahil nakuhaan kami ng picture kanina, nagugulat ako dahil sa mga pictures ay mukha kaming naglalandian at hindi nag a-away!

It was when I was glaring at him and he was caressing my cheeks and hair. Pero sa picture ay hindi mukhang matalas ang mga mata ko at mukhang nakatitig lamang ako sa mukha niya. At ang malala pa ron pati na rin iyong inaamoy niya ako sa pisnge at hinalikan ay nakuhaan rin. It looks like we are fucking flirting with each other.

Mas lalo pa akong nanghina nang makitang isang sikat na sports page ang nag upload n’on at sa caption niya ay may nabubuo raw na love team between two rivals. Nakita ko pa ang mga comments ng mga kinikilig na babae!

“Fuck..” Mura ko at binasa ulit ang mga chats ng mga teammates ko.

HU BASKETBALL TEAM

🏀

Owen natuhod:

That motherfucker is trying to get on our nerves again. Bakit hindi na lang yan ang ma injury para mawala na ang peste sa NQUL?

Wilbert Berting:

Naglalandian ba sila?

Julian ang taas ng hairline:

Gago ka ba? Malamang hindi yan lalandiin ni Sulli ’no. Edited siguro yan.

Simon not the chipmunk:

I heard they were cornering Sulli earlier, hindi sila naglalandian, Wil. They were pestering Sulli.

Wilbert Berting:

Ok. Nagtanong lang ’e. :(

Theo liit:

Bugok kasi ng tanong.

Arlo lopit:

Anong maganda gawin niyan? Lampasuhin sila sa game o kantihin na?

Julian ang taas ng hairline:

Unahin mo maligo bago yang dalawa.

Arlo lopit:

Tanginamo, Julian.

Elias the wall:

I’m really going to kill that prick. Sa dami ng pagt-tripan niya si Sul pa.

Captain Sungit:

👍🏼

Imbes na mainis ako sa nangyayari ay natawa ako sa usapan nila lalong-lalo na sa mga pangalan nila sa group chat. Who the hell set their nicknames? Ang ko-korni!

Tiningnan ko ang nickname ko at napairap ako nang makitang Princess iyon. Sino ba ang naglagay ng mga ’to?

“You look happy. Did you like the pictures?” Ibinaba ko ang selpon na hawak ko nang lumabas si Vesper sa banyo at nakatapis lamang siya ng twalya ngayon. Nakuha ko naman ang tubig na nasa bedside table ko at uminom roon habang nakatitig sa abs niya pati na rin sa sumisilip nanaman niyang mga buhok sa puson. Kahit anong gawin ng lokong ’to, ang pogi.

“Natawa lang ako sa usapan nila Arlo. Sino ba ang nagkalat sa pictures na ’yun? It was misleading.” Sagot ko sakaniya. I saw him licked his lips before sitting on the edge of my bed. Nagtataka pa rin ako kung bakit pumunta siya rito at umaakto siyang sarili niya itong condo. He’s so unpredictable most of the time.

“I’m so mad right now and want to punish you, Sul. But I won’t make the same mistake twice. I believe you weren’t flirting with him, are you?” Natigil ako at pinakinggan ang sinasabi niya sa mababang boses. I recognize this look, ganito rin ang itsura niya noong unang beses niya akong halikan at subukang hubaran.

“I will never flirt with that guy. And you’re not answering my question earlier, why are you here?” I saw his face lightened when I said the first line.

“I told you this morning, I’ll have you tonight.” Naubo ata ako sa sinabi niya at hindi ko na naialis ang tingin ko sa mukha niyang nagbago agad ang ekspresyon. Nagsimula siyang gumapang palapit saakin. Napasandal naman ako sa bedframe at hinawakan siya sa magkabilang balikat nang sobrang lapit na ng mukha niya saakin ngayon.

“Are you drunk? Why are you acting like you’re on something.” Kinakabahan kong ani. He stared at me for a second before chuckling.

“I won’t drink until the NQUL ends, and I’m not an addict. I’m just..” Kinuha niya ang isang kamay ko at tuluyan niyang inilapit ang mukha niya sa bandang leeg ko. “I kept thinking about you the whole day. Your scent that I like so much, your soft flesh, your pretty face and long soft hair and how I am gonna devour you tonight after I saw those pictures of you and Sid.” Nakagat ko ang labi ko at tuluyan akong napahiga sa kama nang halikan niya ang balikat ko palalim sa leeg ko. He smells so fucking good and his husky voice is making me feel something again.

“You’re so horny, captain.” Ani ko habang nakapikit pa rin at kagat-kagat ang labi nang bumaba ang mga labi niya sa dibdib ko. I love his mouth, warm tongue and breath against my skin. Pinanghihina ako niyon. I feel like whenever he’s around, all my reasoning and common sense just disappears and all I could do is go with whatever he wants with me.

I didn’t know I’m this sucker for sexual desires. I’m really a fucking virgin.

“I want to have you, Sul. Can I?” Ipinantay niya ang mukha namin at hinawakan niya ang batok ko habang tinatanong iyon.

“Huh?” I was still dazed because of what he was doing and I couldn’t process what he just said.

“I said I want to fuck you so bad, Sulli.” Napakurap-kurap ako sa madilim niyang mukha habang sinasabi iyon. Hindi ako nakasagot at napatitig lamang sa mukha niyang parang nagtitimpi at gustong-gusto na akong sunggaban. My head felt empty for a while before I processed what he said.

“What?! You want to fuck me? As in, put your enormous dick inside me? No way, Vesper.” Gusto ko sanang lumayo sakaniya ngunit halos nakadagan na siya saakin at hawak-hawak niya ang batok ko kaya hindi ako makagalaw. I saw his lips twitched and his eyebrows lifted up.

“Enormous? And what? Were you just planning to play with me and didn’t even think of doing the real deal? Are you crazy? Are you trying to kill me from being too horny for you?” Naibuka ko ang bibig ko nang ilang beses dahil sa mga sinasabi niya. He sounds like he’s so disappointed at nagtatampo na siya. Unbelievable.

“Well, I didn’t really think that you would even try to put it in me. I mean, you hated me at first because I was gay. And I can tell you were straight, what happened anyway?” Malaking question mark talaga saakin ang biglang pagliko ng relasyon namin. But I was too occupied with my own desires that’s why I didn’t ask that much!

“I told you, I like you. I like the way you look, you make my heart beat faster and my dick is always hard for you nowadays. And I don’t need to question my preference right now because I cannot control if I’m getting hard because of you, can’t I? It wants you, I want you. I see that you want me too, what’s the problem?” I scoffed at what he said kahit na kumakalabog ang dibdib ko sa mga una niyang sinabi. How did he go from hating me to wanting me? What a bipolar.

“The problem is you’re too big for a virgin like me, Vesper. And yeah, I find you hot that’s why I’m letting all this happen. You told me not to put a barrier between us, but you didn’t tell me to keep my ass open for you too! That’s scary.” Litanya ko at bigla siyang natawa. Hindi niya pa rin ako binibitawan at napatitig ako sa mukha niyang tawang-tawa saakin.

“Why are you laughing?” Mahina kong tanong habang titig na titig sa maganda niyang ngiti. Vesper Magnus is really fucking handsome. Why did I not notice that in the very beginning?

“You are scared of my dick?” Nakangisi niyang tanong. Kunot-noo akong napairap.

“Who wouldn’t? It’s fucking big.” Lumaki pa ang mga mata ko habang sinasabi iyon. Nakagat niya naman ang labi niya at nagulat pa ako nang nakawan niya ako ng halik sa mga labi.

“You are adorable. But it will fit, and..” Tuluyan niyang sinakop ang bibig ko at hinayaan ko siya hanggang sa lumikot muli ang dila niya sa leeg at tenga ko.

“Magnus..” Ungot ko. Pinisil niya ang isa sa mga utong ko kaya napahawak akong muli sa balikat niya. Naramdaman kong gigil niyang inamoy ang leeg ko.

“I won’t let anyone have you first other than me, Sulli. I’ll be the one to pop it. It’s not up for debate.” Bago pa man ako maka reklamo sa sinasabi niya ay tuluyan niya akong kinubabawan at lumalim ang halikan naming dalawa. Shit. Why do I always get weak whenever he’s fucking kissing me? His touch always hypnotizes me and this is not good. At this point, he can ask for anything and I’ll say yes!

I’m so fucked up for carnal desires!

“Ahh..” Ungot ko nang bumaba ang mga hawak niya sa bewang ko. His kisses trailed to my chest and it stayed there to suck on my nipples.

“Vesper.. fuck, Magnus. Stop sucking so hard..” Halos masugat ko nanaman ang labi ko kakakagat roon. I held his dirty-blonde hair when he didn’t let go of my chest. Inangat ko ang ulo ko at tiningnan ang ginagawa niya. Nagtama ang mga mata namin habang sarap na sarap siyang sinisipsip ang utong ko. He even licked it smoothly while still looking at me.

“I’ll fuck you one of these days, Sul. For now, I’ll stick with this.”

“Oh!” Napahiyaw ako nang bigla niya akong itaob. I flinched when I felt both of his hands putting both of my ass cheeks apart from each other.

“Vesper.. not tonight.” I didn’t know what I was thinking when I said that.

“When then?” Tanong niya bago ko naramdaman ang malaki niyang alaga na nasa gitna ng pang-upo ko. He’s rubbing his cock on my ass flesh. Nakagat kong muli ang labi ko.

“I don’t know, when I’m ready?” I don’t know what I’m saying anymore. Ang tanging laman ng isip ko ay ang malaking batuta na kumiskis ngayon sa gitna ng pang-upo ko. It feels like he’s thrusting his cock inside me! I can feel myself getting turned on because of his actions again. The friction is making me weak.

“You better get ready for me then.” He said between his grunts and I couldn’t help but nod at what he wanted. Dahan-dahan kong iginalaw ang pang-upo ko habang kinikiskis niya pa rin saakin ang alaga niya. Mukhang nagustohan niya iyon at mas lalo niyang pinag-igihan ang ginagawa.

“Sul.. fuck.” Napahawak ako sa kamay niyang nakatukod sa kama malapit sa ulo ko. Kitang-kita ko ang mga ugat niya roon at masarap rin sa pakiramdam ang mahigpit niyang hawak sa bewang ko habang hindi mapatid ang ginagawa niya. I can feel the warmth of his hugeness against my hole and between my ass cheeks. Masarap iyon sa pakiramdam at alam kong mas nasasarapan siya sa ginagawa niya ngayon.

He really wants to fuck me.

“You feel so good, babe.” Naimulat ko ang mga mata ko nang marinig ko ang itinawag niya saakin. Did he just call me babe? I don’t know why but that made me more turned on right now. His voice is fucking killing me. Hindi ako ang walang sawang umuulos ngunit parang ako ang napapagod at humihingal dahil sa ginagawa niya saakin.

I feel so hot. I feel so sexy and I love what he’s doing to me right now. Sinalubong ko ang mga galaw niya.

“Yes, fuck. Magnus, use me however you like so you can release. Fuck..” I didn’t hold back anymore and moaned whatever I wanted to say. Because as humiliating as it is for me to confess, I really like it when Vesper uses me for his own sexual desires. I feel so strong against him, like I’m controlling him and we are both liking it. Gustong-gusto kong makita kung paano siya maging desperado sa kahit anong parte ng katawan ko. I like seeing him desperate for me, my touch. My body. Shit. Was I into this shit even before? I’m discovering something about myself because of this hot guy behind me. He’s still thrusting nonstop to rub his hugeness against my flesh while groaning so manly and sexy.

“Ah, fuck! I’m so near, babe.” My heart beats faster whenever he calls me babe.

“Ah! Ves!” Malakas kong ungot nang bigla niyang itaas ang pang-upo ko at mahigpit akong hawakan sa magkabilang balakang. Mas lalong naging mapusok ang mga ulos niya at ramdam kong wala pa man ay basa na ang pang-upo at likod ko dahil sakaniya. He’s leaking pre cum and so am I. Shit. This is so hot. I feel really hot right now. I’m on all fours and he’s not stopping. Mahigpit ang naging hawak ko sa bed mattress. Halos kagatin ko na ang foam dahil sa sarap sa pakiramdam ng mga hawak niya saakin. Hindi pa nakkakatulong ang mga ungot niyang palagi akong pinanghihina. And the thought that a guy as handsome as him is the one doing this with me? Makes me feel like I’m floating.

“Shit, shit! Here I come, Sullii. Fuck!” Dinaganan niya ako nang tuluyan siyang labasan at ilang ulit pa siyang umulos kahit ramdam ko na ang mainit na likidong dumaloy sa likod ko. Nakagat ko ang labi ko nang maramdaman kong sobrang dami niyon.

“That’s so hot, captain.” I couldn’t help but say.

“You’re the hot one, Sul.” Wala akong nagawa nang hawakan niya muli ako sa batok upang ipaharap ang ulo ko sakaniya bago niya sakuping muli ang bibig ko. I bit his lip and sucked his tongue.

Kung natatakot ako kanina na ipasok niya saakin ang alaga niya, I think he just made my mind change.

I want Vesper Magnus to be my first experience.

SR

A/N: First tas baka ’di ka na pakawalan niyan nak. You don’t know what u r signing up for, babe

😝

Rivalry 19

Vesper’s

I opened my eyes when I felt someone trying to snuggle up on me. Humigpit ang hawak ko kay Sulli nang makitang tulog na tulog pa siya habang isinisiksik ang ulo sa leeg ko. I can feel my chest swelling up from happiness when I see his beautiful face being peacefully comfortable against me. Inayos ko ang buhok niya at mas lalo siyang inilapit saakin.

I’m so glad I was able to control myself last night. I’ve been working hard stopping myself from forcing Sulli to do what I want to him. Nasanay akong palaging nasusunod ang gusto sa ibang babae but I knew better than to do that with Sulli. He’s different. And I want him to know I’m able to adjust to his slow pace in order to make him comfortable. This is me regretting my actions towards him at the beginning. Gusto kong maiba ang tingin niya saakin. And if I need to obey how fast he wants this thing with us to go, I’ll do it.

I licked my lips and kissed him on his forehead. Masaya ang puso ko na hindi niya ako itinaboy kagabi. And I’m also thankful I was able to contain my anger because of what happened between him and Sid. That bastard won’t really change, he will do anything to ruin me and my team. Napahangos ako upang kalmahin ang sarili ko. I can’t show Sulli how I get when I get mad. I’m working so hard so he can like me back, I can’t risk it.

Lumalim ang isip ko habang pinagmamasdan ang natutulog na mukha ni Sulli. He asked me last night about what happened, why I suddenly liked him. To be honest, I don’t know what to tell him. I’m not even sure how to tell myself that what I’m feeling is normal. I knew it was so odd that I came from hating him to liking him this much. I guess I’m really an odd ball. But Sulli is the only man who made me feel like this. The only man I got attracted to so much. And I’m not the one to resist what I’m feeling for too long. Sulli is especially a very good catch. Right now, all I know is I want him to be mine. All mine.

Natigil ako sa pag-iisip nang may kumatok sa labas ng condo ni Sulli.

“Kuya, are you still there?” Narinig ko ang boses ng kumakatok. Medyo mahina lamang iyon dahil sa layo namin sa pinto. Sulli didn’t hear it and didn’t open his eyes. Dahan-dahan kong ihiniga sa unan ang ulo niya para tumayo.

“Kuya? Are you still sleeping? It’s 7 am.” Narinig ko pang ani ng kapatid ni Sulli. I contemplated when I was about to open the door. Is it okay for Sulli if his brother sees me at his condo? Ilang segundo ako nag-isip bago tuluyang binuksan ang pinto. He will know that I’m with his brother either way. Might as well let him know that I like his brother.

“He’s still sleeping.” Agad kong sabi nang makaharap ko siya. Mukhang natigilan pa ito nang makita ako at nakita ko kung paano kumunot ang noo niya saakin.

“What are you doing here?” His tone wasn’t friendly. I was a bit confused dahil sa pagkakaalala ko ay napaka friendly niya the first time we met. Agad kong pinagsisihan na pinagbuksan ko siya ng pinto. I should’ve woken up Sulli.

“Uhm, I was with your brother last night.” Gusto kong kaltukin ang sarili ko dahil sa naging sagot ko. Obvious ba? Malamang kasama ko ang kuya niya at alam niya na iyon. Pumasok siya sa pinto kaya napaatras ako.

“You slept here?” Tanong niya pa at hindi na naalis ang tingin niya saakin. Wow. I didn’t know someone who looks almost exactly like Sulli can be really scary when mad. Wait, why is he so mad anyway?

“Yeah. Sulli let me.” Maiikli lamang ang mga sagot ko dahil hindi ko alam kung paano siya kakausapin.

“Did you have sex with him?” Nasamid ako sa sariling laway sa sunod niyang tinanong. Nanlaki pa ang mga mata ko sakaniya para tingnan kung seryoso ba siya ngunit nakita kong hindi siya nagbibiro. Pambihira.

“W-What? No? Not yet?” Maang ko at nakita kong tumaas ang kilay niya sa sinagot ko. I scratched the bottom of my lips before speaking again.

“Look, all I can tell you right now is I like your brother. And we have a thing going on between us.” Seryoso kong sabi. Maikli siyang natawa sa sinabi ko.

“Not for long.” Natigilan ako sa sinabi niya at magtatanong sana kung anong ibig niyang sabihin ngunit lumabas si Sulli sa kwarto kung saan ako galing kanina.

“Sev? Oh, Ves. What’s going on?” Nagpupungas-pungas pa si Sulli habang nakatingin saamin. I watched as his younger brother changed his whole aura. Kumunot ang noo ko nang makitang lumiwanag at lumambot ang mukha nito nang lumabas si Sulli mula sa kwarto.

“Kuya, you should get ready. You can now play today.” Pinanuod ko kung paano siya lumapit kay Sulli na mukhang nagising sa sinabi ng kapatid niya. Pambihira. Is he only fond of his brother? Is he the kind of brother that’s so protective even tho he’s younger than Sulli? The way he was when he was talking to me was so different right now that he’s talking with his older brother.

I can tell he doesn’t like me at all.

---

Sulli’s

Palipat-lipat ang tingin ko kay Vesper at Sevan habang naglalakad kami papasok ng campus ng Silang. They’re both glancing at each other uncomfortably. Napailing ako. I heard what they were talking about earlier this morning, umaatake nanaman ang pagiging territorial ni Sevan. I took care of him when our father took him in and he’s been so protective of me ever since, saying it’s his way of paying me back for being a loving brother to him. Ganon din siya kay Sebastian noon. I just let him be because he won’t stop it even if I say so anyway, pero kanina, hindi ko inaasahan ang mga naging sagot niya kay Vesper.

What’s with Sevan? He’s been acting off.

“Sev, how are you sure that I can play today?” Tanong ko nang naglalakad na kami sa hallway papunta ng gymnasium ng Silang. Medyo maingay ang paligid namin na nadadaanan dahil madaming mga estudyante kaya lumapit ako kay Sevan para marinig niya ako.

“I talked to them, pulled some strings and now they will let you play. Don’t worry about it, kuya. Just win the game today.” Deretso at maikli niyang sagot. Lihim na lamang akong napailing. He always has his ways even when it comes to something he’s not necessarily involved with. Dahil siguro ay artista siya at dito sa Pilipinas, madalas sambahin ang mga artista. Habang naglalakad ay saka ko lamang napansin na kaya maingay ang paligid ay dahil nakilala nila si Sevan, ngunit may naririnig rin akong pagbangit sa pangalan ko at at pangalan ni Vesper. Kumunot ang noo ko at pinakinggan sila.

“Kaya pala pamilyar ang mukha ng bagong player ng Haraya, kakambal ata si Sevan.”

“I heard they’re not twins, mas older si Sullivan.”

“Ang liit niya nga para sa basketball, bakit kaya pumayag si Vesper? Knowing him, he’s so picky with his teammates after what happened last year.” Kumunot ang noo ko sa huli kong narinig. What happened last year? I looked at Vesper and it seems like he didn’t heard it or just didn’t care. Nagpatuloy lamang kami sa paglalakad habang naririnig ko pa rin ang mga pinag-u-usapan nila.

“They said Sullivan was already a player back in Canada where he came from, kaya siguro agad na nakapasok sa team ng Haraya. And did you saw the pictures of him and Sid? Gosh! They’re both so hot!” Napangiwi ako sa narinig. They’re crazy.

“Sid really doesn’t care about anyone’s opinion about him, palagi niyang pinangangalandakan ang pagiging bisexual niya, ’no?” Sid is really bisexual? He’s not just messing with me?

“Bagay naman sila. Pero mas bagay sakin si Sevan, magpapa picture ako mamaya!” Iyon ang huli kong narinig bago kami tuluyang nakalayo sa grupo ng mga nag-u-usap na iyon. I almost rolled my eyes but I was suddenly pulled by Sevan.

“Mauna ka na, bro. I have to talk to my brother.” Ani niya bigla kay Vesper na mukhang nagulat pa sa sinabi ng kapatid ko. Wala siyang ibang nagawa at nauna na nga sa loob ng gymnasium. Iginilid naman ako ni Sevan kung saan walang masiyadong taong dumadaan.

“Why?” I asked. Seryoso kasi masiyado ang mukha niya.

“I saw the pictures of you and that guy called Sid. Is he bothering you?” Tanong niya. Napatitig ako sakaniya bago sumagot.

“No, don’t worry about him. It was a misunderstanding, the picture was misleading.” Ani ko na lamang dahil baka ano nanaman ang gawin niya kapag nalaman nga niyang ginugulo ako ng grupo ni Sid. Kung may isang bagay akong pinaka ayaw sa kapatid ko, iyon ang ugali niyang ’ my way or the high way’ . Dahil lumaki kaming parehong kontrolado ng ama namin, mas lumala ang kagustohan niyang palaging masunod ang lahat ng gusto niya nang sapilitan. And he told me what he wants the most in his life, that is to make everyone who mess with me suffer in his hands. It’s because I was the only one who loved him in the family. Ngunit matagal niya na binabago iyon dahil nag-away na kami dati dahil sa mga ginagawa niya, he even got my former basketball team involved. Ngayon ay hindi niya nanaman iyon ma kontrol. I sighed and cupped his face.

“Sevan, I told you not to get involved with my own business, didn’t I? I don’t need to remind you again the hard way, right?” Seryoso kong ani at mukhang natigilan siya. I know he knows what I mean. Dati ay hindi ko siya pinansin nang ilang buwan dahil sa kalokohang ginawa niya sa mga teammates ko dahil binully ako ng mga ito nung una.

“Kuya, I’m not the one you should worry about. Worry about that team captain of yours.” Kumunot ang noo ko sa naging sagot niya.

“What do you mean?” Taka ko. Inalis niya ang kamay kong nakahawak sa pisnge niya at mahigpit niya iyong hinawakan.

“I investigated about him after you mentioned him to me the first time, and guess what? He’s the reason your team didn’t win last year.” Napakurap ako sa sinabi niya at mas lalo pa akong lumapit sakaniya para makinig.

“Why?” Biglang pumasok sa utak ko ang mga naririnig ko sa paligid tungkol kay Vesper. Ang sinabi saakin ni Sid, ang binanggit ng commentators at ang mga narinig ko kanina sa hallway. Mas lalong lumaki ang curiousity ko.

“He was in love with the former captain’s sister, but the girl didn’t want him, si Sid ang gusto nung babae.” Hindi ako nakakibo. So hindi lang iyong kinwento saakin ni Owen ang dahilan kung bakit mortal na magkaaway ang dalawang iyon?

“And how is that related to them losing the NQUL?” Taka ko pa. Sevan paused like he’s contemplating but spoke after awhile.

“The girl got raped by Sid’s men, and Vesper was in rampage during the championship game of Haraya and Silang. I don’t know the exact reason, pero ang dati nilang captain ang binugbog niya, their team got disqualified and that’s why Silang is the reigning champion.” Nalaglag ata ang panga ko sa una niyang sinabi. The girl got raped by Sid’s men?! Bumilis ang tibok ng puso ko at para akong sinuntok sa tiyan dahil sa sinabi niya. Iyon bang babaeng sinabi ni Owen saakin noon ang babaeng binabanggit ni Sevan saakin ngayon? But why the hell did Vesper got angry with his former captain and not with Sid’s men? Ang daming pumasok na tanong sa utak ko at kahit isa ay wala akong maisagot roon.

What the hell is going on between these Universities? Bakit wala man lang nananagot sakanila sa mga nangyari? Why are they still allowed to compete in NQUL?! Mababaliw na ata ako sa dami ng tanong na nasa isip ko ngayon.

“Kuya, I don’t want you to get involved with that Sid and Vesper. Kung ako lang ang masusunod, I don’t even want you to be part of this game, but it’s still your passion and choice. Just please, be careful.” Malumanay ang paalala ni Sevan. I looked at him and nodded my head. Alam kong nag-a-alala saakin si Sevan dahil nakita niyang involve na ako kay Sid at Vesper.

“I gotta go find someone, wait for me at the bleachers.” Ani ko at may sinasabi pa siya ngunit lumakad na ako papasok sa gymnasium. Pumasok ako sa locker room na naka assign saamin at hinanap agad ng mga mata ko ang lalaking iyon. The whole team looked at me when I pulled him outside. Pati ang nagtatanong na mga mata ni Vesper ay nahagip ko ngunit wala akong tiningnan sakanila.

I pulled Elias outside the gymnasium at ipinasok ko siya sa loob ng isang room na walang tao.

“What’s going on, Sul?” He asked and I asked everything I wanted to.

SR

Rivalry 20

Sulli’s

“Hmp!” Nabigla ako nang mabilis na takpan ni Elias ang bibig ko nang marinig niya ang mga tanong ko. Malalaki ang mga mata niya at tiningnan pa ang paligid namin kung may ibang tao ba bago humarap saakin.

“What? How did you know about this?” Pinanlakihan niya ako ng mga mata. I glared at him and slapped his hands out of my mouth.

“Doesn’t matter. You need to answer my questions kung ayaw mong sa iba ko pa malaman kung anong mga nangyari last NQUL.” Matigas kong sabi. Para namang hindi pa siya makapaniwala sa mga narinig niya saakin. I only asked if everything Sevan told me was true and my questions about it.

“Sul, this is a very sensitive topic. Not even Owen told you about this, didn’t he?” Mahinang-mahina ang boses niya kaya nagtaka na ako.

“Are you afraid? I just want to know, I’m part of your team now.” Lumapit pa ako sakaniya. Napabuntong-hininga naman siya at napatitig saakin bago muling humangos nang malalim na parang problemadong-problemado.

“Yes, everything that you heard was the truth. But no one knows about this but the team of Haraya and Silang. If you’re asking why they aren’t getting the punishment they deserve, malalakas ang kapit nila, lalo na si Vesper.” Muli akong napahangos bago naibuka ang bibig dahil sa sagot niya saakin. I can’t fucking believe it.

“What do you mean by that?” Tanong ko sa huli niyang sinabi tungkol kay Vesper. Lumapit siya saakin at hinawakan ako sa balikat.

“You shouldn’t know anything about this. Kapag narinig ka ni Vesper na binanggit ’to, he will do everything to remove you from the team.” Seryosong-seryoso siya sa mga sinasabi niya habang nakatitig sa mga mata ko. Naibuka ko ang bibig ko ngunit wala akong nasabi. Muli siyang napabuntong-hininga.

“Since you know half of it, alam kong magtatanong ka pa sa iba. And it’s dangerous, you will get in danger. So I will tell you everything at once, but you need to promise me that you won’t tell anyone about it and no one will know that you know something about this. Do you understand?” Nagbubulungan na lamang kami. I quickly nodded at him. Umupo siya sa upuan sa harap ko at pinaupo niya rin ako sa tabi. Para akong lutang na sumunod lamang sakaniya. I still can’t believe everything that I heard. At alam kong masiyado talagang sensitive ang topic na ito sakanila, not even Owen was brave enough to tell me about this.

“Vesper is the most influential person among the powerful Universities that’s competing in NQUL. That’s the reason why he can still play even after injuring his own captain last year. Iyon din ang rason kung bakit wala ni isang may lakas ng loob ang nagbabanggit nang nangyari nakarang taon. I’m actually curious who told you this, is it Sid?” Umiling ako sa sinabi niya and he immediately get it. I will not tell him who told me. Hindi ko ipapahamak si Sevan gayong ganito nga ang nangyayari sa mga school na ito. But I’m so curious about everything especially the information about Vesper.

“Why is he the most influential person? Bakit parang takot sakaniya ang lahat?” Tanong ko pa.

“I don’t want to tell you anything about that, you just need to know that he’s that powerful.” Gusto ko siyang sampalin sa inis. Why can’t he just tell me everything?

“Then why did he beat up the former captain of Haraya?” Tumaas ang boses ko at tinakpan ulit ni Elias ang bibig ko. I glared at him and he just shook his head at me.

“Lower your voice, alright? I will tell you.” Inalis niya ang takip sa bibig ko at bumuntong hininga bago nag kwento. Parang hindi pa rin siya kumbinsido na mag kwento saakin ngunit wala siyang choice.

“Jade, yan ang pangalan ng babaeng huwag na huwag mong babanggitin sa harap ni Vesper. Our former captain name is Jude, nakababatang kapatid niya si Jadeline, the girl that Vesper loved.” Hindi ako nakakibo. Something inside my chest tightened. I didn’t know he loved someone else before. Did he also show everything that he have shown to me? Napailing ako sa sarili. Of course he did! Baka mas sobra pa roon.

“Vesper knows Jade since he was a fresher, he liked her so much. Naging sila noong first year, but when they both turned second year, Jade broke up with him and transferred school. Sa Silang, sa lahat ng University na pwede niyang lipatan, sa Silang siya lumipat. At sa lahat ng lalaking pwede niyang ipalit kay Vesper, si Sid pa. Doon nagsimula ang nakikita mong ugali ni Vesper ngayon, he’s even worse than that if he gets really angry.” Ipinasok ko lahat sa ulo ko ang mga sinasabi niya. Why the hell am I feeling heavy on my chest while listening to him? So what Sevan said wasn’t exactly right.

“Vesper was devastated about everything, but he still wanted to win the NQUL and go international. It’s been his dream since he was a kid. He really practiced a lot while still chasing Jade and seeking for answers about their separation. Ang alam lang kasi namin, bigla na lang nanlamig sakaniya si Jade. At nangyari pa iyon during the NQUL.” Humangos siya at pati na rin ako. He’s taking too long to get it all out!

“And then the incident happened, it was before the championship, Jade got raped by Sid’s men. And Sid didn’t believe her when she told him. Vesper was so ready to kill Sid and his men, but did you know what he found out when he was already in front of Sid?” Inilapit ko ang mukha ko sakaniya at ganon rin siya saakin.

“Jude, our former captain, was the one behind everything that happened. Tinakot niya si Jade, he threatened to sabotage the game and purposely lose the championship if Jade doesn’t break up with Vesper and be with Sid. All this time, Jude was actually one of Sid’s accomplice. And the rape that happened? Sid wasn’t the one who ordered it, he didn’t really know anything about it, it was Jade’s own brother, Jude. The reason? He hated Vesper to the core, he’s willing to ruin everything Vesper’s has loved and wanted. Kahit kapatid niya pa ang madamay.” Parang nanghina ata ako sa mga nalalaman ko ngayon. Natakpan ko pa ang bibig ko at hindi makapaniwala sa mga sinasabi ni Elias. Kaya ba galit na galit rin si Vesper nang makita niya ako noon na kasama si Sid? Is that why they keep saying Vesper is so picky with his teammates?

“This is so sick.” Mahina kong sabi habang hindi pa rin makapaniwala. Tumango naman si Elias habang hindi rin maipinta ang mukha niya. He looks like he suddenly remembered everything and it also made him sick to his stomach.

“Jade was a victim, she loved Vesper too much that she was willing to do everything para lang makuha ni Vesper ang lahat ng gusto niya. After Vesper got to know everything, he almost killed Jude. He also hospitalized Sid and his men. That was all during the championship, all of the cameras were confiscated, the live for the national TV was cut off when Vesper started his rampage. Para siyang nawala sa sarili, but after all of that, not even a single word about what happened got out. His father already got his hands involved at walang kumalat tungkol sa mga ginawa ni Vesper at Jude. It was settled by their parents. That’s why we’re still playing in NQUL.” I don’t know what to think and what to say with every information I’m learning right now. Lahat iyon mabibigat at hindi ko agad maipasok sa utak ko.

“Who are their parents? How can they do this?” Tanging nasabi ko kahit parang puputok na ang dibdib at ulo ko sa mga nalalaman.

“They’re all powerful politicians, businessmen and even racketeers.” I can’t wrap around my head everything I’m hearing right now. Nagtatanong ko pa rin siyang tiningnan at naiintindihan niya ang mga mata ko.

“I can’t tell you about their parents, Sul. The both of us will be in danger. This is all I can tell you. That’s why we are especially concerned when Sid started showing interest in you.” Napabuntong-hininga ako at hindi mawala-wala ang bigat sa dibdib ko dahil sa mga kinwento niya.

“Bakit galit na galit si Jude kay Vesper?” Mahina kong tanong.

“Jude’s family and Vesper’s family are closed to each other even before, we found out that Jude was always compared to Vesper. Lahat ata ng pamilya niya ay palaging pinupuri si Vesper kahit na siya pa ang team captain at hindi si Vesper, it was drilled in his head that no matter what he does, Vesper will always be ahead of him. That’s why he hated Vesper so much he’s willing to ruin even his sister. If I’m the one to say it, I think Jude family created a monster, created him.” Napatango-tango ako. I think that too. They created an unimaginable monster and the innocent payed for it.

“And what happened with Jade?” Bumilis ang tibok ng puso ko habang tinatanong iyon. I don’t know why but I got nervous for some reason. What’s happening to me?

“Jadeline and Jude was sent abroad. Vesper didn’t want anything to do with Jade after that, he blamed himself for everything that happened with Jade and said it was enough, he didn’t want to complicate things anymore and let her go. Kung ako ang tatanungin, he’s still not yet moved on.” Napakurap-kurap ako sa sinabi niya at nakita niyang nagtaka ako sa sinasabi niya.

“It’s because even after a year, ayaw na ayaw niya pa rin na mabanggit ang lahat ng iyon. It’s as if he closed that chapter of his life, he’s acting like none of that even happened. Kaya lahat kami ay umaakto rin na walang nangyaring ganon. He didn’t have any closure, none of us did, how can he even move on? Simulan n’on, hindi na nag seryoso sa babae si Vesper.” I couldn’t say anything and everything that happened between me and Vesper started playing in my head. Lalo na ang nangyari saamin kagabi at kung paano niya ako niyakap magdamag.

If he’s not yet moved on, what does that make me?

“Vesper said he likes me.” I blurted out and Elias was dumbfounded and stared at me with his bloodshot eyes.

“What?” Hindi niya makapaniwalang tanong. Napalunok ako at umiwas ng tingin sakaniya.

“We almost slept with each other. He said he likes me, I’m also attracted to him.” Pag-amin ko. I need someone to talk to about what’s going on between us after all of the things I’ve found out. Matagal na natahimik si Elias bago siya muling nagsalita.

“I guess Sid already knows that and that’s why he’s interested in you. Fuck, I hope the past won’t repeat itself.” Natapik ko siya sa sinabi niya.

“What are you saying? I don’t love Vesper, and you said it yourself, he’s not yet moved on. I think it’s pure physical between us.” Sinabi ko iyon ngunit ako rin ang nainis sa sarili ko. Pure physical? Am I dumb? Do I really want to get physical to someone with a dark past like that? To someone who’s not yet moved on? Fuck. I hate this. Now that I know their history, I regretted seeking answers just for my own curiosity.

“Kahit na, Vesper tends to be possessive when he likes someone. Everyone around you seems to be curious about you too, pati ang coach ay alam na umiinit agad ang ulo ni Vesper kapag damay ka sa usapan. Katulad kahapon nang hindi ka makalaro, we were all worried that he would just start punching everyone inside the court.” Naubo ako sa sinabi niya. Napaisip ako at napabuntong-hininga.

“Elias, I don’t know what to feel about everything that you told me. Especially what I should feel about Vesper. I’m in daze right now.” Komportable akong sabihin sakaniya iyon dahil siya rin ang pinaka unang teammates ko ang naging malapit saakin. He held my shoulder and tapped me a few times while sighing.

“All I can tell you is to not get involved with both of them, Sul. Sid and Vesper doesn’t need more fuel to add to their undying rage towards each other. And from all I can see right now, they both have their eyes on you.” Tumaas ata lahat ng balahibo ko sa huling sinabi ni Elias.

How can I even get out of this situation?

---

“Why are you so outminded?” Halos mapatalon ako sa kinatatayuan ko nang may bumulong mula sa likod ko. It was Vesper. It’s already afternoon and we are already playing against Monteluz University.

“I’m not.” Tanggi ko. I was sweating a lot kaya pinunasan ko ang noo ko gamit ang suot kong jersey. Bago ko pa man maibaba ang jersey ko ay may humila na noon pababa.

“Use a towel.” Vesper said. Tumawag ng time out ang Monteluz kaya nasa gilid kami ngayon ng bench. Nakita ko pa si Sevan na nakatingin rin saakin. Tumalikod ako sakanila at hindi ko pinansin si Vesper.

I made up my mind, I should not get involved with Vesper anymore. This is a wake up call for me. I’m only attracted to his body now, what if my feelings for him deepens? Mahihirapan akong maipit sa nakaraan niya at sa away nila ni Sid. I can’t do that to myself. Mabigat man sa dibdib ko dahil nagustohan ko ang nangyayari saamin ni Vesper nitong nakaraan, I should make up my mind and do what’s better for everyone, especially for the team. I can’t be the reason for their downfall again.

Muli kong itinaas ang jersey ko at pinunasan ulit ang mukha kong may pawis. Nabigla ako nang may humila ulit n’on pababa. I glared at Vesper but he was also glaring at me.

“I said put it down. The other team is staring at you, are you purposely doing this?” Galit niyang ani. Kunot-noo naman akong tumingin sa harap ko at nakatingin nga saakin ang ilan sa mga kalaban habang may ngisi sa mga labi. I snickered. Kanina pa ako naiinis sa mga ’to. They’re purposely targeting me inside the court, lalo na ang captain nila na ang pangalan ay Raphael. I heard it when we were all introduced before the game. He keeps bumping into me and he even winked at me earlier. What’s wrong with this shitheads?

“I don’t care about them, captain.” Tanging sagot ko kay Vesper at kumuha ako ng tubig na inaabot saakin ni Elias kanina pa. We made eye contact and we were talking with eyes only. Alam kong pinapaalala niya saakin ang naging usapan namin kaninang umaga. I sighed and flinched when I saw Vesper was still beside me.

“They keep staring and bumping at you, even the crowd keeps applauding whenever you shoot. And yet, you still need to exposed your body for their eyes?” Nag-init ata ang ulo ko sa sinasabi ni Vesper. What’s gotten into him again? Hindi pa nga ako nakakabawi sa gulat at bigat sa dibdib ng mga nalaman ko sakaniya kanina ay umaandar nanaman ang pagiging isip bata niya!

“I’m not in the mood right now. Stop talking to me.” Sagot ko sakaniya at saktong tumunog ang hudyat na tapos na ang time out ng Monteluz. Vesper was glaring at me with confusion but I ignored him and already entered the court. Dahil hapon ay talagang tagaktak ang pawis ko at extra ang hingal ko. Ngunit hindi ko iyon hinayaang maging hadlang para maging maganda ang laro ko. I know all of the crowd are watching me right now, and I’m doing my best to prove myself kahit na magulo pa rin ang isip ko sa mga nalaman ko kanina. Ang hindi ko lang maintindihan sa sarili ko, mabigat ang dibdib ko sa tuwing naiisip ko ang mga kinwento ni Elias. Pati na rin ang kuryosidad ko patungkol kung sino ang mga kapit nila kaya hindi sila nanagot sa mga nangyari. I sighed and bit my lip when Elias gave me the ball.

Tumakbo ako palapit sa ring at tatlong lalaki agad ang humarang saakin. I was about to pass the ball to Vesper who’s below the ring but the captain of Monteluz tried to get the ball on my hands. Hinigpitan ko ang kapit roon at nag-agawan kami sa bola hanggang sa nakahiga na ako sa sahig. He was above me and none of us wanted to let go of the ball.

“The game is getting heated up between the new small forward of Haraya and the captain of Monteluz. Turner and Broza!” Rinig kong ani ng commentator. Marami pa silang sinasabi ngunit naka focus ako sa laro.

“Let go of it!” Kumunot ang noo ko nang marinig ko si Vesper na isigaw iyon ngunit hindi ko ginawa.

“Your captain said let go of it, Princess.” Tumalas ang tingin ko kay Raphael at nakangiti lang naman siya saakin. He’s purposely putting all of his weight on me. Ilang segundo lang ay pumito na ang referee kaya parehas naming binitawan ang bola. I was glaring at him and he was just smirking at me and winked at me again. His teammates laughed with him and I rolled my eyes. What the hell are they playing? Calling me Princess when I scored a lot more than he did? Ang kapal ng mukha niya. Lamang na lamang kami sakanila pero nagyayabang pa siya.

“I told you to let go of it.” Dumagdag pa sa inis ko ang boses ni Vesper nang pumunta siya sa likod ko. The ball was passed to me again by Julian.

“I don’t need you to tell me how I should play, captain.” Sagot ko sakaniya habang nakatitig ako sa captain ng Monteluz na nakangisi pa rin saakin. I bolted towards him and purposely bumped into him before I shoot the ball inside the ring. The crowds went wild again when I scored. Tiningnan ko siya nang payabang ngunit pinagtaasan lang ako nito ng kilay. Asshole. Habang nagpatuloy ang laro ay mas uminit ang labanan namin at ganon rin ang mga matalas na tingin saakin ni Vesper. I know he’s mad because I’m not listening to him. Pero hindi naman siya ang ini-insulto ng mga kalaban kaya hindi niya alam ang nararamdaman ko ngayon. Dagdag pa ang mga nalaman ko tungkol sakaniya sa init ng ulo ko!

Halos mapamura ako nang muling ibigay saakin ni Simon ang bola. Why do they keep giving me the ball? Can’t they see that the other team is targeting me? And the referee can’t even see it! Tumakbo ako nang makuha ko ang bola at nakita ko agad na lumapit saakin si Raphael. One of them was in front of me and I was about to pass the ball again when Raphael got his hand on it. Bakit ba ang bilis ng kamay ng lokong ’to?! Muli kaming nag-agawan at muli niya akong nadaganan. Hindi pa man nga isang segundo ay narinig ko nanaman ang sigaw ng captain.

“Let go! I said let go, Sullivan!” I gritted ny teeth and was about to let go when I felt a pain on my neck.

“Whoa, partner did you see that? Did he just bite him? That’s definitely going to be reviewed. If that’s what it looked like, that’s an automatic ejection.” Bago ko pa man maibuka ang bibig ko para makasigaw dahil sa biglang sakit sa leeg ko ay narinig ko na ang malakas na boses ng commentator.

“Ah!” I groaned when the captain of Monteluz suddenly bit me hard on my neck. I heard the crowd shouting and the referee immediately whistled. Napapikit ako sa sakit ng kagat saakin at hindi agad ako nakatayo nang may humila kay Raphael mula sa ibabaw ko. I rolled on the floor and held the part of my neck that he bit. Nagulat pa ako nang makitang dumugo iyon. Shit! Shithead! At hindi niya lang ako kinagat, hinila niya rin ang mahaba kong buhok habang nakadagan siya saakin kanina! Nahubad tuloy ang pagkakagapos niyon. Agad akong tumayo at balak na sanang sumugod sa lalaking iyon nang makita kong nagkakagulo na ang lahat. My teammates are holding onto Vesper who looks so mad. Gusto niya rin sumugod papunta kay Raphael na nakikipag sigawan sa referee ngayon ngunit hawak siya nila Julian at ng Coach.

“Siniko niya ako kaya ko siya kinagat!” I heard Raphael shouting and the referee was saying something to him but I was already raging and wanted to punch him, ngunit inisip ko ang team. We can’t get disqualified! Baka pareho pa ma disqualified ang team namin ganitong pare-parehong mainit ang ulo namin.

“Gusto mo bang burahin ko ang mukha mo?!” Narinig kong sigaw ni Vesper habang nakalapit na saakin si Owen at Elias at tinitingnan ang leeg ko. Pareho silang may sinasabi ngunit pareho ko silang hindi inintindi. Lumapit ako sa referee at nadaanan ko si Vesper na parang batang pinipigilan nila Arlo na huwag makalapit kay Raphael na patuloy ang pagsisinungaling sa referee.

“Shut up! Use your brain for once!” Inis kong sigaw kay Vesper na mukhang natigilan saakin. Tumalikod ako sakaniya at lumapit sa referee.

“We can play the VTR and see who got violent. Hindi ko siya siniko, he bit me out of nowhere.” Natahimik si Raphael sa sinabi ko. Nakalimutan ata ng kumag na ’to na marami ang camera na nakatutok saamin ngayon. May isa ngang malapit na saamin at kinukuhaan ang komusyon. The referee didn’t need the VTR and already drew his call.

“And the officials have made their decision, Jersey number 4, Broza the captain of Monteluz University has been assessed a Flagrant Foul Penalty 2 for unsportsmanlike conduct. He is ejected from the game.” The commentator announced and the crowd was in a mess. The continuous video tape of Raphael biting me was played on the screen above the court.

“What?! Just ejected from this game? He should be fined and suspended!” Malakas ang sigaw ni Owen. Napapikit ako sa inis. It’s so obvious that the management are siding with everyone except us. Akala ko ba malakas ang kapit ni Vesper? Pinag i-initan ba nila kami dahil galit rin sila sa kung gaano kalakas ang kapit ng captain? Fuck. I hate everything about this game right now.

“Dumugo na ang kasama namin, ejected lang? And what? He can still fucking play after this game? Unbelievable.” Si Elias. Nakita kong gusto rin lumapit ng coach ngunit pinipigilan pa rin nila si Vesper na makalapit saamin. Fuck. Padagdag nang padagdag ang nabubuong init sa ulo ko. Nakipagbangayan pa si Owen at Elias sa mga referee nang biglang may malakas na tumili sa mga manunuod. Nanlaki agad ang mga mata ko nang makitang bumulagta si Raphael sa sahig habang dumudugo ang nguso.

“Shit! That’s right! Kill that bastard!” Rinig ng lahat ang sigaw ni Vesper habang lahat kami ay gulat na nakatingin kay Sevan na malakas na sinuntok ang captain ng Monteluz.

Fuck! Can this day get any worse?!

SR

Rivalry 21

Sulli’s

“I told you to stay put! Ang sabi ko huwag kang makikialam sa mga bagay na hindi ka naman kasali! Why can’t you just listen to me, Sevan Lucien!” Halos mapatid ang lalamunan ko sa kakasigaw kay Sevan. Nandito kami ngayon sa loob ng locker room ng team at narito rin ang teammates ko. The game has ended, we won by default but we got technical warning because of what Sevan did.

“He bit you! Look at your neck, it’s still bleeding!” Tumaas rin ang boses niya at gusto niyang lumapit saakin ngunit galit akong muling nagsalita.

“And you need to punch him when we are already fixing the problem?! Kahit pa anong ginawa niya saakin, when I told you to stay put, you need to stay put!” Wala akong pakialam kung nakatitig saakin ngayon ang mga teammates ko pati na rin ang coach na mukhang gusto rin magalit sa mga teammates ko ngunit hindi niya magawa dahil nagugulat sila sa galit ko ngayon. Naipon na lahat ng inis ko ngayong araw at naubusan na ako ng pakialam sa makakarinig. I’m so pissed at everything!

“Kalma lang, Sul—” Matalas kong tiningnan ang nagsalita. Natahimik naman si Julian nang makita niya ang tingin ko. Nakita kong napangiwi si Owen sa tabi niya.

“That bastard deserved it. Bakit ka ba nagagalit saamin? Ikaw na nga ang naagrabyado—” Sumingit si Vesper at hindi ko siya pinatapos.

“Isa ka pa! Paano kung pareho na disqualified ang team natin dahil hindi mo ma kontrol yang galit mo! Why do you need to get physical every time you feel like it?! For goodness sake you’re our team captain!” Hindi ko napigilang mapagsabihan rin siya. Nakita kong gumalaw ang panga niya.

“And that’s why I’m mad! I’m your captain and yet you didn’t listen to me, not even once! I told you to let go but you didn’t!” Hindi ako makapaniwalang tumingin sakaniya.

“Are you saying it’s all my fault? Basketball yun! Malamang makikipag agawan ako—” Mukhang mas galit na siya saakin at lumapit pa para putulin ang sinasabi ko.

“Can’t you see that they’re purposely doing that to ruin the game? Kaya ka nga pinapaiwas diba? They were targeting you and—” Tumingin siya kila Julian, Elias at Simon na mukhang nagulat pa. “All of you keep throwing the ball towards Sulli! They were trying to pissed us off and they did it successfully because all of you can’t just listen to me!” Siya naman ngayon ang malakas ang boses. Napakunot-noo lamang ako.

“Julian! I told you to pass me the ball but you didn’t! Kayong tatlo sinabihan kong saakin ipasa ang bola pero hindi kayo nakinig! Sullivan, I told you to let go twice but you just couldn’t? At ngayon ako ang mali dahil uminit ang ulo ko sa gagong yun?! Look at the state of you!” Malakas niyang sigaw sa malalim niyang boses. Napahawak ako sa leeg ko nang maramdaman kong sumasakit iyon. I glared at him and so does he.

“Sayo ko pinasa, nakuha lang ni Sul..” Mahinang ani ni Julian.

“Me too, I got cornered and Sulli was the only one I can pass the ball to.” Si Simon na sinundan agad ni Elias.

“I didn’t hear you say that I should pass you the ball and not to Sulli.” Kunot-noo pa ni Elias at napasinghal lang si Vesper. Tumingin siya saakin at mukhang inaantay niya akong may sabihin ngunit inirapan ko lamang siya. As if I will reason out to him!

“Tapos na ba kayo? Pwede bang ako naman?” Nagsalita ang coach at lahat kami natahimik. Napabuntong-hininga siya at gumitna saamin.

“No one is at fault here but our opponent. They purposely triggered us by targeting Sulli. Ang hindi ko lamang maintindihan, alam niyo na nga na sinasadya nila iyon, talagang nahulog pa kayo sa gusto nilang mangyari?” Malinaw at kalmado ang coach ngunit wala saaming kumibo. He looked at me and my brother.

“Sulli, I get that they were provoking you, but when your captain made the call, shouldn’t you do it?” Nakagat ko ang labi ko at naiwas ang tingin.

“I’m sorry, coach.” Mahina kong sagot. Napikon lamang talaga ako kanina dahil sa mga ngisi ng mga kumag na iyon. Mainit na rin ang ulo ko bago pa ako pumasok sa court.

“And you, ang alam ko ay artista ka? Hindi ka ba natatakot na magkaroon ng scandal dahil sa ginawa mo kanina?” Tanong ng coach sa kapatid ko na nakahawak na sa likod ko ngayon. He shook his head and all of us almost deadpan.

“No. Whoever hurt my brother, they will pay for it. The hell with my reputation.” Kinurot ko si Sevan sa sinagot niya sa coach. I heard some of my teammates chuckled and the coach glared at them before looking at my brother again.

“Papalagpasin ko itong ginawa mo ngayon dahil ikaw ang nakiusap sakanila para makalaro ang kapatid mo. But if you are going to do this again the next time you watch, don’t show your face to us again.” Seryosong ani ng coach at hindi sumagot si Sevan. I licked my lips and glanced at him.

“Nakiusap na ako sainyo, lalong-lalo na saiyo, Herrera. Walang gulo, gusto niyong manalo diba? We can do it but if we get disqualified, what do you think will happen? Kung puro init ng ulo ang paiiralin niyo, wala kayong mararating.” Muli kaming natahimik lahat. Kagat-labi akong inis na napatitig sa sahig. Hindi pa rin mawala ang inis ko kanina pa. I don’t know where this is coming from but I need to vent this out!

“Coach, I’m trying so hard to get everything under control. But if none of my teammates respect my decisions, I don’t think we can win this season.” Lahat kami natahimik. I looked down and I felt so guilty. Naalala ko ang mga sinagot ko kanina kay Vesper. Why did I even forgot that he’s our captain?

Matagal pa kaming nag usap-usap at napagkasunduan namin na sundin ang kahit ano mang desisyon ni Vesper sa loob ng court. We said our sorry to each other and promised that none of what happened today will happen again in the future games. Ngunit kahit ganon ay hindi kami masiyadong nagkausap ni Vesper, not that I wanted to.

Lumabas na ako ng gymnasium at hinatid ko si Sevan sa kotse niya.

“I’ll take you home, kuya.” Alok pa ni Sevan ngunit umiling ako.

“I still have things to do here. Go on, we will talk tomorrow.” Ani ko at tumititig siya saakin bago ako niyakap.

“I’m sorry, but I can’t promise not to be violent when someone just hurt you like that, kuya. I’ll call you tomorrow.” Napabuntong-hininga ako sa sinabi niya bago siya tuluyang pumasok sa kotse niya at umalis sa harapan ko.

“Your brother is quite drawn to you.” Natigilan ako nang marinig ko ang pamilyar na boses sa likod ko. It was Sid with Marga who’s looking at me funny.

“I didn’t know he was a basketball player, at nasa team pa ng kapatid ko.” Marga said. Nakita kong nakakapit siya sa braso ni Sid at lahat ng kinwento saakin ni Elias ay pumasok sa utak ko. Does Marga know about that but still hanging around this bastard? She’s something else.

Lalakad na sana ako palayo sakanila nang magsalita muli si Sid.

“Do you see this bruises on my face, Sulli?” Ani niya kaya muli akong tumingin sakaniya at nakita ko ngang may mga maliliit siyang pasa sa labi at pisnge. Pinagkunotan ko siya ng noo.

“Your stupid brother attacked my boyfriend last night. He’s quite a fighter, he even wanted to slap my face. What a scary bitch.” Dagdag pa ni Marga. Muling bumalik ang inis sa dibdib ko. Sevan, fuck. Kaya niya ba tinanong saakin ang tungkol kay Sid kanina? I’m sure he attacked him because he saw the pictures. That brat.

“And I’m supposed to pity you with that? Sid, don’t think I don’t know your evil shit. If you ever touch my brother, I will fuck you up more than you can imagine.” Inis kong singhal at matalas kong tiningnan si Marga.

“At ikaw, alam mo naman siguro ang relasyon ng kuya mo sa gagong yan? You think he’s your boyfriend? Marga, everyone can fuck your boyfriend then. Wake up and protect yourself from that monster.” I spat and she tried to attack me but Sid pulled her.

“Calm down. Your beloved brother is here.” Ani ni Sid at nakita ko nga si Vesper mula sa likod ko na matalas ang tingin saamin.

“Marga? What did I told you?” Tanong ni Vesper sa kapatid niya gamit ang malalim niyang boses. His sister just glared at us and scram. Napairap ako. Ganon lang at umalis na siya kaagad? What a bitch. Naiwan si Sid na nakapamulsa na ngayon habang nakangiting nakatingin saamin.

“I watched your game, Sulli really live up to his name. Sullivan Lorien Turner, one of Duncan’s star player.” Ngisi saamin ni Sid. Tumaas ang kilay ko sakaniya. How did he know my second name?

“How I want you to be on my team, Sulli.” He said with an anticipation. Narinig ko namang maikling natawa si Vesper sa tabi ko.

“I’m starting to think that it’s a fetish of yours to get whatever’s mine, Sid.” Vesper mockingly said. Ako naman ang napatingin sakaniya. Mine? When did I became his possession?

“Well, were they even yours if I can get them, Ves?” Sid retorted and they both glared at each other. I rolled my eyes and walked away from them. Hindi na lang sila mag suntukan.

“Both of you are jerks.” Mahina kong ani bago lumakad papunta sa gilid ng kalsada para pumara ng taxi dahil wala pa akong nabibiling service. Nakita ko namang agad na sumunod saakin si Vesper.

“I’ll go get my car, stay here.” Ani niya at mabilis nanamang umalis. Napabuntong-hininga na lamang ako at inantay siya. I need to talk to him anyway. I can’t keep doing this. Noong una ay gusto ko ang namamagitan saamin, I even wanted him to be my first experience. But now that I got to know their history, nagbago na ang isip ko. I don’t want to be with a man who still haven’t moved on.

Natigilan ako sa iniisip ko at napagtanto ang kanina ko pa sinasabi.

“Am I only revolted because Elias said he still can’t move on?” Mahina kong tanong sa sarili. Hindi dahil nawala siya sa sarili at halos makapatay na? My chest is so heavy because I believe he’s still in love with someone else? Para akong napako sa kinatatayuan ko at napagtanto ang nararamdaman.

Am I fucking jealous because of his past lover? Is that why I was so irritated the entire game?

Naitakip ko ang kamay ko sa bibig at hindi makapaniwala sa nararamdaman. Do I fucking like him? Do I still fucking like him even after what I learned from his past?

“Oh my gosh, Sullivan.” Ani ko sa sarili. Bakit ba ang bilis kong mahulog? Is it because I’m inexperienced? Natulala ako sa daan hanggang sa may kotseng tumigil sa harapan ko. Bumaba si Vesper at inakay ako papasok sa kotse. He opened the door at inalalayan akong makapasok sa kotse katabi ng driver seat.

“Don’t move your head too much, baka dumugo nanaman ang sugat mo. Let’s tend to it at home.” Sabi niya nang makaandar na ang kotse. I looked at him again. At home? Para namang i-isa lang ang bahay namin kung makapagsalita siya. Buong byahe ay hindi ako kumibo hanggang sa makita ko kung saan niya ako dinala. This isn’t my condo.

“Where are we?” Tanong ko. Pumasok kami sa malaking gate at nakita ko ang sobra sa laking bahay. Mas malaki pa sa mansyon ng mga lolo at lola ko kung saan nakatira si Owen. Is this their house? Am I meeting his family?!

“My house. Don’t worry, nobody lives here but me and my sister.” Kumalma ako nang sabihin niya iyon ngunit nainis rin sa hindi ko malamang dahilan.

“Why are you bringing me here?” Tanong ko. Itinigil niya ang kotse sa garage ng mansyon nila.

“Gagamutin natin ang sugat mo, and I want to talk to you about what you did earlier.” Seryoso niyang sabi at rinig ko ang konting galit sa boses niya. Hindi ako makapaniwalang tumingin sakaniya ngunit bumaba na siya ng kotse at pinagbuksan ako ng pinto. Bumaba ako at agad na nagsalita.

“Kaya kong gamutin ang sarili ko sa condo. And what? Ako pa ba ang may ginawa kanina? Ikaw ’tong unreasonable lagi.” Irap ko at kumunot ang noo niya saakin.

“Unreasonable? Sulli, may I remind you that I am your captain and I will always make the decision inside the court whether you like it or not. And what’s with you? Bakit ba inis na inis ka kanina pa? Masaya naman tayo kagabi ah?” Nag init ang pisnge ko sa huli niyang sinabi.

“Masaya?!” Hindi ko napigilang sigaw. Nagulat pa siya at natawa.

“Yeah, we almost fucked. You were moaning like crazy.” Hinampas ko ang dibdib niya sa sagot niya saakin. Tinawanan niya lamang ako at hinawakan pa ang mga kamay ko.

“Sulli, I just want to treat your wounds. Let’s go inside.” Malumanay niyang ani. Napatitig ako sa maamo niyang mukha. Now that I’m looking at him knowing what he’s really capable of, I can finally admit that I did like him. It’s not just because I like his body, I liked the way he was so unserious, immature and unintentionally funny in his own ways. But whenever he gets serious, especially when he’s horny and yearning for me, he’s hot as hell and I was so attracted to it. Pero gusto ko bang madamay sa mga gulo sa buhay niya? Do I want to be involve to someone who is still healing from his past? I don’t want to.

Pinaramdam na saakin ito ni Sebastian noon. To love someone who doesn’t love me, I won’t put myself in that position ever again. Besides, marami pa akong tanong tungkol kay Vesper na hindi nasagot ni Elias. Mahina kong binawi ang mga kamay ko sa hawak ni Vesper.

“Vesper, captain..” Lumunok ako bago muling nagsalita. “I don’t want to be involved with you anymore. Can we just please stay as teammates? I really don’t want to do this with you.” Natahimik siya at napatitig saakin dahil sa sinabi ko.

“What did you say? Come again?” Kinabahan ako nang makita kong galit na ang mukha niya. Fuck this. Why am I getting nervous? As if we even have a relationship! Mas kinabahan pa ako dito kaysa nang makipaghiwalay ako kay Sebastian.

“I said I don’t want to go with whatever this is. I’m putting a wall between us, captain. And I hope you respect that.” Lakas loob kong sabi. Naitagilid niya naman ang ulo niya habang naguguluhang nakatitig sa mukha ko. I bit my lip and also stared at him until he chuckled.

“You’re joking, right?” Tanong niya ngunit kitang-kita ko sa mga mata niya ang tinatago niyang pagkapikon sa sinabi ko. Fuck. Why isn’t he taking this so well?

“No. Please, you’re scaring the shit out of me, Vesper.” Pag-amin ko at napaatras naman siya habang natatawa.

“Scaring you? The fuck does that mean? Alam mo ba ang mga ginawa ko para lang makalapit sayo, Sullivan?” Napatitig lamang ako sakaniya nang makita kong matalas na ang tingin niya saakin.

“It was the hardest pill to swallow when I realized I’m actually attracted to you, to a fucking guy, Sulli.” Lumapit siya saakin at hindi ako nakaatras.

“I was fucking straight, and I hated it that you made me actually want you. But I fucking admit it! I accepted it, and you said you were also attracted to me, so I thought I had a chance..” I flinched when he put his arms on my shoulder. Ibinaba niya ang mukha niya palapit sa mukha ko.

“And you let me touch you, you touched me too. The slow pace you wanted, I respected it because I was an asshole to you before and I wanted to show you I respect whatever you want. I learned, Sul, I learned to controll my possessive tendencies and my anger whenever someone get close to you— Hell! If I wasn’t respecting you, the moment you let me touch you, I would’ve paralyzed Elias and Sid for getting too close to you. And what? You’re still putting a wall between us after all my efforts? Why? Am I a joke to you?” He was genuinely confused but also angered at what I said. Napapalunok kong inalis ang hawak niya saakin at lakas na loob siyang sinagot.

“Are you trying to guilt trip me? Are you saying I should just be with you because you did all of that shit?” Tanong ko at umiling naman siya.

“No, I’m telling you that unlike what you are implying, I did respect your space, your slow pace and your decisions between us— but you’re saying I’m fucking scaring you? I’m not guilt tripping you, I’m asking you to give me a good reason why you want to end this even after you made me believe you also wanted me.” Humina ang boses niya at halatang gusto niya talagang malaman ang rason ko. But I can’t tell him what I’ve learned, can’t I?

“You..” I paused and contemplated. Should I really say this? Napabuntong-hininga ako. “You just don’t attract me anymore. That’s my reason.” Muli kaming natahimik at hindi ko tinitingnan ang mukha niya dahil alam kong makikita niya rin na nagsisinungaling ako ngayon.

Fuck this. I shouldn’t have gotten involved with him at the very beginning.

“You’re saying that when you still haven’t gotten fucked by me.” He mockingly chuckled at nainis ako roon. Why is he so stubborn? Bakit ba ang yabang niya? Siya ba ang pinaka masarap sa kama sa buong Pilipinas? He’s so fucking arrogant. Fucking fine then!

“Then let’s do it, fuck me. Then after that, I’ll decide if we should continue this or not.” Tiningnan ko na siya sa mga mata at nakita kong dumilim ang mga tingin niya saakin.

Right at that moment, I wanted to slap my self so hard.

What the hell did I even say?!

SR

Rivalry 22

⚠️

A/N: This is probably the longest and slowest smut I’ve ever wrote. 4k words and this chapter is pure smut, so if you don’t like that, might as well skip this chapter. Enjoy!

Sulli’s

Mahigpit ang naging hawak ko sa balikat ni Vesper nang hubarin niya ang jersey ko bago ako halikan. After what I told him outside, he didn’t say anything and just pulled me inside the mansion. Halos kargahin niya na ako kakamadali papunta sa kwarto niya na sobrang layo ata mula sa entrance ng mansyon nila. Nang makapasok nga kami ay agad niyang hinubad ang suot niyang jersey at ganon rin saakin.

“Go inside the shower room.” Bigla niyang utos. I couldn’t do anything and just obeyed. Nang makapasok sa shower room na itinuro niya ay hinubad ko na rin ang suot kong jersey shorts. I looked around inside the shower room and it’s so spacious here. Halos kada sulok ay may malalaking salamin at sa gilid ay may malaking bath tub na mukhang maliit na swimming pool. It’s a matte black square bathtub. May dalawa akong in door na halaman na nakita. Even the showerhead is unique looking and still black. This bastard’s shower is so classy. I’m actually envious.

“What are you staring at?” Bumalik ang kaba sa dibdib ko nang pumasok si Vesper sa banyo. His eyes were eyeing me because I’m already naked. Nakasuot pa rin siya ng boxer shorts at nakita ko ang nasa mga kamay niya. I gulped at the sight of lube & condoms.

“Condoms?” I couldn’t help but say. Tumaas ang kilay niya bago lumapit saakin. He put the condoms at the sink before touching my shoulders. He’s still eating me with his eyes!

“Why? You want me to do it raw?” Mabilis akong umiling sa sinabi niya.

“No, I was just shocked that a straight man like you has something like those.” Bigla akong nahiya sa mga titig niya. This fucker. Mukha pa rin siyang galit at mas lalong galit ang nakakubli sa loob ng boxer niya. Kahit may takip pa iyon ay gusto nang kumawala.

“I bought it after the first time you sucked my dick.” Nagulat ako sa sinabi niya.

“Why?” Naitanong ko pa kahit obvious na ang sagot.

“What do you think? I also learned a few tricks.” May tipid siyang ngisi habang sinasabi iyon. He caressed my face and fix my long hair. Tinitigan niya ang mga labi ko. Hindi ako nakasagot dahil sa lakas ng tibok ng puso ko.

“I’ll ask you again, Sulli. Do you really want to do this?” Nagtanong siya muli. Hindi ko iyon inaasahan. I couldn’t answer right away. Do I want this? This will be my first time if ever. I licked my lips and looked at Vesper’s body.

He’s hot, I think everyone knows that. Maganda ang katawan niya dahil athlete siya. Matangkad, our size difference is way too different from each other. Hindi ako sobrang liit, pero kapag nasa tabi ko siya, I look so fucking small. He has toned abs, sexy V line and my favorite hair of his on his abdomen. Kakulay iyon ng dirty blonde niyang buhok. And I don’t think I need to doubt the appeal and handsomeness of his face structures. Vesper Magnus is a hunk. And having Vesper as my first experience? Not bad. Not bad at all.

“You don’t need to ask again. Let’s just do it.” I said, taunting him. Seryoso lamang ang mukha niya habang nakataas ang kilay saakin. He put his fingers on my chin and made me look at his face.

“Look at your state, your neck is bleeding again.” Mahina niyang sabi habang hinahalikan ako sa labi. I couldn’t help but kiss him back. His lips are actually addicting. Ginalaw ko ang kamay ko at ipinatong ko iyon sa mga buhok sa puson niya. His eyes were stern while looking at my face. He’s still holding my chin.

“I wanted to take things slow with you, babe. But you are really..” Sinakop niya ang bibig ko bago muling nagsalita. “So good at making me the bad guy.” Humigpit ang hawak niya sa baba ko at napahiyaw ako nang ipatalikod niya ako bigla. He made me walk under the showerhead. Binuksan niya iyon at nanginig ako nang tumama sa katawan ko ang malamig na tubig. It was cold at first but I saw him turn on the water heater. Nagitla pa ako nang bigla niyang hawakan ang sugat sa leeg ko.

“Biting you like this, does he really think I will let him go with it?” Narinig kong bulong niya. Hinaplos niya ang sugat ko na parang nililinisan iyon. He was so gentle with it that it actually made me shiver. Kagat-labi ko siyang tiningnan ngunit ibinaon niya ang mukha niya sa leeg ko. I groaned when he kissed the wound on my neck. He even licked it with his warm tongue. Napalunok ako. It actually feels nice and didn’t sting at all.

“What do you mean?” Kahit na nakapikit dahil sa ginagawa niya ay naitanong ko pa rin iyon. I felt his grip on my shoulders tightened. Hinarap niya ako sa right side namin at nakita ko ang sarili kong kahubaran sa malaking salamin roon. I can also see the size difference between us. He’s towering over me behind while his grip on my shoulders are tight. Ang mga mata niya ay matalas habang nakatingin rin saakin mula sa salamin. He’s still hovering on my neck when he spoke.

“I’m going to make him pay for it, Sul. Whether you like it or not.” I glared at him and was about to say something when he suddenly pushed my head towards the mirror. I was shocked when he pushed my head against the mirror while my butt is still at the same place where I was standing earlier. Mukha ako ngayong nakatuwad sakaniya. He’s looking at me intently.

“You’re so hot, Sulli. Whenever you glare at me with those eyes, I just want to fuck you all night.” Mahina niyang sabi bago ko maramdaman ang hawak niya sa entrada ko. Kagat-labi kong pinigilan ang sarili kong ungot nang maramdamang nilagyan niya ng lubricant ang mga kamay niya. Agad na bumuka ang bibig ko nang ipasok niya ang isang daliri niya saakin.

“Fuck. Aren’t you doing this so fast?” Hingal ko. He stopped and neared his face towards me. I can see him from my peripheral vision.

“After I stick this dick deep inside you, I’ll savor your body all night. You don’t need to worry, Sulli.” Ungot lamang ang naisagot ko sakaniya dahil dinagdagan niya ang nasa loob ng entrada ko. My entrance is sucking his fingers in and he keeps scratching the insides of my ass. Mabilis niya iyong naipapasok dahil sa ginawa namin kagabi. My ass is still sore.

“Who’s fucking worrying?” Nang makabawi ay naisagot ko pa iyon. “Ah! Vesper!” Napahiyaw ako nang dagdagan niya pa ang dalawang daliri sa loob ko. He’s forcing it to open wide!

“You have a lot of nerve for someone that’s gonna get fucked, Sulli. Don’t you know it makes me more excited?” Napaigtad ako at madiin na nakagat ang sariling labi nang paluin niya ang pang-upo ko. No one have ever spanked me! Not even my freaking father.

“Captain, take it slow, please.” Pakiusap ko. Mukhang natigilan siya roon nang ilang segundo ngunit biglang bumilis ulit ang mga daliri niya na umuulos sa entrada ko.

“Ohh! Vesper!” Ungot at saway ko ngunit mas lalo niya iyong pinanggigilan. Hanggang sa itinulak niya ako paluhod sa sahig. I came face to face with his hugeness and he held my hair. He made me look at him and I know I look like I’m already in daze. Hindi pa rin mawala ang sensasyong nararamdaman ko sa entrada ko dahil sa ginawa niya.

“I’ll fuck your mouth, as your punishment.” Bago pa man ako makasagot ay ipinasok niya na sa bibig ko ang kalakihan niya. It won’t even fit that much because it’s so big and long. Napapikit ako nang malasahan ko ang precum niya ngunit nagsalita siyang muli.

“Tell me, you were purposely lifting your jersey up to show them your chest, weren’t you?” I opened my eyes and glared at him. Seriously, why would I show my chest to those bastards? I saw him smirked and started thrusting inside my mouth. Napahawak ako sa bewang niya dahil malalakas ang naging ulos niya sa bibig ko.

“Hmp! Hm!” Protesta ko dahil sa sinabi niya saakin. He didn’t let go of my hair so I couldn’t pull away. Tinatamaan niya ang lalamunan ko kahit hindi sagad ang ari niya saakin.

“Take it. I told you to put down your shirt, but you wanted to expose your body! If I could just let them know that I do things to this sexy body of yours, Sulli. I will gladly let them know.” Muli ko siyang tinalasan ng mga mata habang nauubosan na ng hininga dahil sa lakas ng mga ulos niya. My throat hurts but my dick is so hard! He’s blabbering ngunit humihingal siya at nang-a-akit ang mga tingin saakin. This arrogant jerk still looks so sexy while saying shitty things! But why the fuck does it make me feel so horny?

“Ah, fuck!” Ungot niya at biglang binawi sa bibig ko ang ibinigay niyang kalakihan. I coughed and licked my lips. He’s still not yet finished, why did he pull away? Hindi pa ako nakakatanong ay hinila niya na ako patayo.

“Ah!” Ungot ko at napahawak sa matigas niyang dibdib nang pisilin niyang pareho ang dalawang utong ko habang malalim ang mga tingin saakin.

“Go outside, on my bed. I want you on all fours, Sulli.” Bigla niyang utos at pinanlakihan ko naman siya ng mga mata.

“The hell I would do that— hmp!” Muli akong napaungot nang hilahin niya ako upang madikit sa malaki niyang katawan. He held my chin again and made me look at his stern face.

“Do you want me to fold you myself? On all fours, or I will do it.” Pinal ang utos niya at alam kong gagawin niya iyon kapag hindi ako sumunod. I gritted my teeth and aggressively pulled away. Nagdadabog akong lumabas ng shower room na iyon at inis na tiningnan ang malaking kama sa gitna ng malaki niyang kwarto. Padabog akong lumakad palapit roon at sinipa ko pa ang kama niya.

That bastard. Who is he to tell me everything that I should do?! Napahangos ako sa inis at tiningnan nang masama ang pinto ng shower room. Kahit kailan ay walang nakagawa saakin nito! Fuck!

Inis pa rin akong dumapa sa malambot niyang kama at sinadya kong straight na dapa lang talaga. My face is against the mattress while I’m silently cursing Vesper. Ano bang gagawin niya pa sa shower room?! I glanced at my hardened dick and cursed at him again.

“Bastard..” Gigil ko pang bulong sa sarili bago ko narinig na bumukas ang shower room. Pinikit ko ang mata ko at hindi siya tiningnan. I heard him chuckling but I didn’t open my eyes. Hanggang sa may humila sa paa ko ay saka lang ako nagmulat ng mga mata.

“Hey! Let go of me!” Singhal ko sakaniya ngunit natigilan ako nang makitang may suot ng condom ang kalakihan niya at maraming nakalagay na lube roon. Napalunok ako dahil tayong-tayo iyon at nakatutok saakin. Fuck. Is that even going to fit inside me? Baka ikamatay ko pa yan!

“I said on all fours, hindi dapa. Kneel on the bed, Sulli.” Utos niya nanaman. Inirapan ko siya bago sumunod. I knelt on the bed.

“Put your hands against the head rest, ass up in the air.” Marami siyang utos at kagat-labi kong sinunod ang mga iyon. I’m the one who offered my own body, but I didn’t know I’m going to do all of this! Nakakahiya. Sobrang nakakahiya!

“Vesper.. this is so embarrassing.” Hangos ko at naramdaman kong umakyat siya sa kama. Napaigtad ako nang maramdaman kong hawakan niya ang pang-upo ko.

“You don’t need to be embarassed. Right now, you look so hot and tempting, I can barely hold it in.” Inilapit niya saakin ang bibig niya at ibinulong saakin iyon. I bit my lips and I felt his dick poking my entrance. Mabilis akong sumulyap sakaniya ngunit hinawakan niya ang ulo ko para ilayo roon ang mga tingin ko.

“I want your face against the mattress, don’t move your lower body.” Muli niyang utos at napapalunok kong sinunod iyon.

“You need to relax for me, I know this is your first time.” And so does he! First time niya rin naman ito diba? First time fucking a guy, but he’s so confident unlike me!

“Vesper.. Magnus..” I called his name when he parted both of my ass cheeks away from each other. Naimulat ko ang mga mata ko nang marinig kong duraan niya ang entrada ko. My ass crack twitched but I could only bit my lip. Shit. I suddenly feel so hot and his rough hands holding my ass are not helping.

“Your pussy is so pretty, Sulli.” Nag-init ata ang buong pisnge ko sa sinabi niya. He’s so shameless. I was about to answer him but all of my strength was pulled out when I felt his huge head popping my entrance.

“Haah! Ah!” Impit kong hiyaw dahil pwersahan niyang ipinasok ang ulo ng kalakihan niya sa entrada ko. I felt like my ass is tearing apart!

“Shh.. relax— ah, fuck.” I heard his groans. Ibinaba niya ang katawan niya saakin. He started kissing my back when he heard me whimpering. Kagat-kagat ko ang labi ko at sobrang higpit ng hawak ko sa higaan. Wala pa man ay parang gusto ko na maiyak.

“Sulli, you’re so tight, you need to relax.. please.” Malumanay na pakiusap saakin ni Vesper. He put one of his hands on mine and started kissing my nape and my shoulders. Humangos ako at tumango sakaniya.

“Kiss me.” Hingi ko at agad niya namang hinawakan ang ulo ko para ipaharap sakaniya. He claimed my lips and we started exploring each other’s mouth. Doon ko lamang itinuon ang atensyon ko. I savored his hot mouth while I can feel his huge dick slowly entering my body. Kahit na patuloy ang halikan namin ay hindi ko mapigilang mapaluha dahil sa sakit ng pagpasok niya. I whimpered again and even sobbed. He’s so big, my ass can’t take it. Natigilan si Vesper at hindi siya gumalaw.

“Shit. Don’t cry, I’m going to pull it out.” He panicked and I felt him moving away. I gritted my teeth and did the most unhinged act I’ve ever done. Ako na mismo ang iginalaw ang pang-upo ko upang sagad na maipasok saakin ang kalakihan niya.

“Ah, fuck! Sulli!” Vesper groaned along with my cries.

“Fuck! Ah! Shit! Shit!” Puro mura ang lumabas sa bibig ko nang maramdaman kong parang mapupunit na ang entrada ko. I also feel so full. Masakit, ngunit may kaakibat rin iyon na sarap lalo na’t naisagad ko ang ari niya saakin. I can feel his cock twitching inside me. Rinig ko rin ang mahihina niyang ungot at naramdaman kong mahina niya akong kinagat sa balikat.

“Sulli, you feel so fucking amazing.” Hinalikan niya ako sa balikat at hindi pa man ako nakakabawi ay bumwelo na siya sa likuran ko.

I just know he’s going to fuck me so hard.

---

Vesper’s

“Ahh! Vesper! Fuck! Fuck! Magnus!” Sulli’s moans were music to my ears. It’s like a fuel adding to the heat I’m feeling right now.

I finally popped his cherry. Sullivan’s virginity, I’m the one who took it. Hindi ko alam kung alin ba ang mas masarap sa pakiramdam, ang sobrang sikip niyang entrada na patuloy na sinasalubong ang kalakihan ko o ang isiping ako ang nakauna sakaniya. Fuck, everything that’s happening right now is new to me. I’ve never felt this good during sex. Probably because this is also my first time fucking a guy. This is so incomparable to my past experiences. This is so much more euphoric.

“Sulli.. look at me.” Utos ko. I’m afraid he’s going to pass out. Hawak-hawak ko ang katawan niya upang hindi siya tuluyang mapahiga sa kama. I can feel that all his strength already left his body.

Tiningnan ko ang mukha niya and I couldn’t help but thrust my dick more deeper. He looks like a mess. A hot mess. I already imagined him to be so sexy while being fucked by me, but finally seeing it right now, I don’t think I will let him rest tonight.

“Ah! Ah! Vesper! Please!” Kahit ang mga ungol niya ay walang katulad. He’s so loud but it just fuels my lust. Ang sarap pakinggan ng nasasarapan niyang mga ungot. His ass is so big and bouncy, kada ulos ko ay umaalog ang buong katawan niya lalo na ang dalawang pisnge ng pang-upo niya. It’s so hot to see. Nag-a-alala ako sa maliit niyang baywang dahil sa posisyon namin ngayon. I feel like it’s going to snap whenever I thrust. Ibinaba ko ang ulo ko palapit sakaniya at hinalikan ko ang makinis niyang likod. Hingal siyang pinipilit tumingin saakin.

“You like that? How’s my dick?” I purposely teased him. Ang akala ko ay titingnan niya ako nang pagalit ngunit kagat-labi siyang sumagot saakin.

“I.. love it. Fuck me more, captain..” Nahigit ata ang hininga ko at gigil kong hinawakan ang mahaba niyang buhok. Doon ako kumuha ng lakas upang mas malakas na umulos sa kasikipan niya. I’m almost growling while fucking his tightness so hard and fast. Sa tanang buhay ko ay hindi pa ako naging ganito ka agresibo para lamang makapasok sa isang masikip na entrada. But Sulli’s tightness will be the death of me, it feels like heaven. Kung ako lamang ang masusunod ay hindi ko na siya titigilan kahit kailan. Ngunit naalala ko ang sinabi niya saakin kanina, after this, he wants it to end. Mas lalo akong nanggigil sa isiping iyon.

He thinks I will let that happen?

“Fuck! I’m going to fuck you so hard you can’t even leave me tomorrow, Sulli.” Gigil kong ani at inangat ko ang katawan niya. Pinaupo ko siya sa kahabaan ko at patuloy naman siyang pumiglas sa karga ko.

“Fuck! So deep! Oh! Vesper! No!” Nagpumiglas siya kaya’t binago ko ang posisyon namin. Umupo ako sa kama at ipinaharap siya saakin. Nahugot ang ari ko sa entrada niya. I held his chin and kissed his lips when we were already facing each other.

“Put it in again.” Utos ko habang naniningkit ang mga mata ko sa mukha niyang halatang sarap na sarap sa ginagawa namin. He look so fucking erotic. I think I’m going to burst just looking at his erotic expression.

Kagat-labi niyang hinawakan ang ari ko at itinutok iyon sa entrada niya. He slowly sat on it and I saw his legs shaking while my dick is entering him. Pareho kaming napahangos at napaungot sa sarap na dulot ng pagpasok kong muli.

“Fuck, ang ganda mo, Sulli.” Hindi ko mapigilang komento. Naiyakap niya naman ang braso niya sa leeg ko. I hissed when he bit my neck. Mahigpit kong hinawakan ang baywang niya at pursigidong umulos.

“Oh! Ohh! Magnus! Fuck! Ahh!” My jaw is tightened, my brows are knitted while fucking Sulli. There’s no space inside his tightness at all. My dick can barely fit, sakal na sakal niya ang ari ko at ayaw ko ng matapos ang tagpong ito. If we just stay like this forever, I will gladly accept it.

“Ahh, so tight, babe.” Ungot ko bago dilaan ang tenga niya. He shuddered on top of me but I didn’t stop thrusting inside him. Pabilis nang pabilis ang mga ulos ko.

“Vesper! Vesper! Ohh!” Habang palakas nang palakas ang mga ulos ko ay ganon rin ang mga ungol niya. I started kissing his cheeks and even claimed his mouth. Tumigil ako sa pag ulos at ihiniga siya sa kama ko. I’ve never imagined Sulli sleeping on my bed, but what do I know, I’m even fucking him on my bed right now.

“Sulli..” Inayos ko ang buhok niyang nasa mukha niya na. He’s so wet from sweat and so am I. He really looks like a mess. Hingal na hingal siya and he’s also sobbing while his eyes are already in dazed. I licked my lips and sucked his lower lip.

“You want me to keep going? Hm?” Tanong ko. Ipinatong ko ang mga paa niya sa isang balikat ko at inilapit ko ang mukha ko sakaniya. I’m folding him so good and he looks so sexy. Umuungot siyang tumango saakin. I know the look in his face, lunod na lunod na siya sa sarap ng ginagawa namin.

“Speak. Tell me you want me to fuck you good.” Mahina kong sabi habang dahan-dahang umuulos sa kasikipan niya. His hands are gripping on my arms and he finally looked at my eyes.

“Fuck me.. fuck me hard, Vesper. I’m so near!” I couldn’t hold it anymore. His voice is so seductive. Mahigpit kong niyakap ang dalawang hita niya at malalakas akong umulos. I saw his eyes rolled back and he started chanting my name again.

“Vesper! Ohh! Fuck! Vesper! Captain!”

“Fuck!” Tagaktak na ang parehong pawis namin. Ibinuka ko ang hita niya at sinakop ko ang bibig niyang patuloy akong tinatawag. I cupped his face and started kissing him while still fucking him so good. He doesn’t even have the strength to kiss me back anymore but I can feel his nails dug into my skin. Alam kong sugat-sugat na ngayon ang likuran at mga braso ko dahil sa mga hawak niya ngunit hindi ko iyon alintana. Nagpatuloy ang malalakas kong ulos habang pareho kaming lunod na lunod sa sarap ng aming ginagawa.

“Shit, Sullii..” Ungot ko at mas nilaliman ang mga bayo ko sakaniya. Mas lalo naman siyang umingay.

“I’m so near! Fuck me! Harder, Magnus!” Shit! Sinunod ko ang gusto niya. I fucked him harder and faster until I saw his body trembled uncontrollably and he convulsed beneath me. Namuti ang mga mata niya at halos hindi siya makahinga nang labasan siya gamit lamang ang ari ko sa likod niya. Kahit ganoon ay hindi ko tinigil ang ginagawa ko at mas lalo ko pa iyong pinag igihan hanggang sa nagmamakaawa na siya saaking tumigil. I just smiled at him while groaning. I’m gonna erupt too!

“Vesper! No! Oh! Ohh!” Pumiglas siya sa mga hawak ko ngunit niyakap ko ang katawan niya at mas sinagad ang ari kong patuloy ang ulos sa kasikipan niya. I thrusted so deep like my life depended on it. He was already crying when I finally erupted.

“Fuck! Ohhh..” Inilabas ko lahat habang sagad na sagad pa rin ang kalakihan ko sa loob niyang sobrang init. I bit his neck while I feel like floating for almost two minutes. If I didn’t know better, I think I was really in heaven. That was the longest time I’ve felt the euphoric feeling of cumming.

“Sulli..” Nang makababa sa sukdulan ay tiningnan ko si Sulli nang may ngiti sa mga labi. I kissed him on the lips while pulling my dick out.

“How was it? I still want more.” Ani ko habang inaalis ang condom na suot ko. Ang dami kong nilabas. Ang akala ko ay hindi pa rin makasagot saakin si Sulli dahil sa pagod ngunit nang tingnan ko siya ay nanigas ang buong katawan ko. I nervously put my finges on his nostrils.

Can you really die because of a dick?!

Nakahinga ako nang maluwag nang maramdamang humihinga pa naman siya. Nakangiwi ko siyang pinagmasdan. He’s a hot mess. Full of hickeys, lips and eyes are swollen from my kissing and his crying. Nakagat ko ang labi ko. Tiningnan ko ang oras at napagtantong halos tatlong oras lamang namin ginawa iyon. I chuckled while trying to fix his hair. Pinunasan ko ang mga luha sa pisnge niya.

“So weak.” I mumbled while staring so lovingly at his pretty face.

He passed out just from one round.

SR

Rivalry 23

A/N: I’m now starting to introduce new characters for the plot! hehe

and we will also know more about Vesper! Yes, yes, hindi lang siya isang immature team captain haha

Owen’s

I looked at Vesper who was smoking a cigarette while walking towards me. He has a stern face but something about him today that looks different. He looks mad.. but also happy? Kunot-noo ko siyang sinalubong.

“Ves, do you really need to do this?” Tanong ko agad sakaniya nang magkalapit kami. Binuga niya naman ang usok sa bibig niya bago ngumiti saakin.

“Why? Ayaw mo bawian ang lokong yun?” Taas-kilay niya bago ako inakbayan at nagsimula kaming lumakad papasok sa isang abandunadong building. It’s eight am and I came here to make sure Vesper doesn’t go overboard.

“Gusto, syempre. But let’s not cross the line, simpleng pananakot lang.” Mahina kong paalala. Tumigil naman siya sa paglalakad at tiningnan ang mukha ko.

“You know me too well, Ow. I wouldn’t be like this if they didn’t purposely pissed me off. Besides, it was your cousin who got bit, aren’t you even mad?” Seryoso niyang sabi. Pinakatitigan ko siya at napabuntong-hininga ako. This Vesper in front of me right now is the Vesper I’m not a fan of. Nagiging ganito siya kapag kumukulit ang mga kumag sa paligid namin. Katulad ni Raphael na siyang kumagat kay Sulli kahapon. I knew Vesper wouldn’t let it go, he’s not that nice.

“What if Sulli gets to know this?” Tanong kong muli. Natigil naman siya sa paninigarilyo bago muling bumuga ng usok.

“He won’t. No one even knows about our underground business, Ow. Why are you extra nervous today?” Kunot-noo niya saakin. The underground business he’s saying is torturing whoever rival that crosses the line with us. Kung may isang rason ako kung bakit ayaw kong magustohan ni Sulli si Vesper, ito iyon. He’s two faced.

Sure, he’s reasonable most of the times. Hindi siya nagsisimula ng gulo, hindi siya ang nauunang makipag away. He’s even patient with stupid people who bothers him. He can also be immature, funny and reckless most of the time. He’s just a normal typical college students with lots of enemies. But the moment you actually piss him off? He will show you why everyone thinks highly of him, some people are even scared of him. He may not use his influence that often, but once he does, he doesn’t care about limit. You’re brave enough to do evil things to him? He will show you what true evil is.

This cruel nature of him, he gets it from his monster of a father.

“I just don’t want my cousin to be involved in any of this.” Sagot ko sakaniya. Tumango naman siya.

“Owen, he just knows me as his immature captain. So what if Raphael suddenly cannot play again after he bit him? Does that automatically mean we are the one who injured that bastard? No evidence, no justice.” He said with a stern look. He’s really mad about what happened yesterday. Vesper is not what everyone thinks he is. Ako lamang at si Sid ang nakakaalam kung paano bumawi si Vesper sa mga kumakanti sakaniya. Pailalim.

“AHHHH!!” I flinched when I heard someone screaming in pain. It’s Raphael Broza, the team captain of Monteluz University. Last night, at exactly 12 midnight, Vesper suddenly called and said he ordered some of his men to kidnap Broza. Dinala niya sa abandoned building na ito na pagmamay-ari ng Papa niya. Dito niya rin dinala si Jude noon na dati naming captain at may ginawa sakaniyang katarantaduhan. He rarely does this but whenever he does, I’m always right beside him. I’m his accomplice. Pero ngayon niya lang ginawa ito dahil sa simpleng pagkagat lamang sa isa sa mga ka teammates namin. His reasons to do this were always deep and valid that’s why I can stomach it, but right now, does Broza really deserve it?

“Vesper, I’m warning you. Walang talo-talo, you promised me. Don’t ever touch Sullivan.” Tanging nasabi ko bago nauna na sakaniyang lumakad palapit sa lalaking kanina pa sigaw nang sigaw. Naabutan ko sa gitna ng isang kwarto ang tatlong lalaking may hawak na baseball bat. They’re having their turns to swing the bat on Raphael’s legs. Kaya sigaw nang sigaw ang loko. I saw Isaac with them, Vesper’s personal butler that was with Vesper’s father for a month now. Mukhang nakabalik na siya. Kailan pa kaya? Hindi rin kasi siya palaging sumasama kay Vesper lalo na kapag sa school. He’s a nice loyal guy although he’s somewhat snob when it comes to me.

Tumigil silang tatlo nang makita nila kaming pumasok. Isaac talked to Vesper while I was looking at Raphael’s state. Naka blindfold siya at nakatali sa upuan. Dumudugo na ang labi niya at naglalaway na rin na may kasamang dugo. I sighed. What’s gotten with this bastard anyway? Bakit ang lakas ng loob niya kahapon? Bakit sa dami niyang gustong pag tripan, si Sulli pa? Vesper likes Sulli, but the latter doesn’t even know how evil Vesper can get. Kaya kahit anong mangyari, I will never let them be together. Kahit kami pa ang masira ni Vesper, wag lamang madamay si Sulli. He’s too innocent and pure for this kind of world. Hindi niya na kailangan malaman pa ang mga totoong nangyayari behind every issue inside and outside the University.

“Do you recognize my voice, Raphael?” Vesper suddenly said. Kinuha niya ang baseball bat na hawak ng isa sa mga tao niya at lumapit kay Broza. Broza couldn’t even say anything anymore. Umakto itong umaatras kaya hinawakan ng dalawa sa tatlong tao ni Vesper ang kinauupuan niya. Vesper pointed the bat on his haid and even poked it with the bloody bat.

“Tsk, tsk. Why do you think Sid and his men doesn’t dare do anything to me? You think it’s because they’re not that cruel? They won’t cross that line?” Tanong ni Vesper bago natatawang umupo sa harapan ni Broza.

“It’s because they know what I’m capable of.” Seryoso niyang ani at malakas niyang sinapak ang mukha ni Broza. I bit the inside of my cheeks and just watched. “I’m sure you know who my father is, and you also know I don’t use his power to get whatever I want. Isn’t that why you’re so brave to pissed me off? But did the thought that I’m still his own blood, crossed your damn mind? You’re a fool.” Napapikit ako nang makita kong tumayo siya at itinaas ang hawak niyang baseball bat.

“AHHH! AH! I WON’T DO IT AGAIN! I WON’T DO IT AGAIN! PLEASE! PLEASE! VESPER!” Raphael started begging when Vesper targeted his knees. The last man he did this to was the guy who injured me. One of Sid’s teammates. Pero hindi iyon big deal kay Sid, dahil sinadya niyang isa sa mga baguhan ang gumawa niyon saakin para kahit bawian namin siya ay hindi kawalan iyon sakaniya.

“Won’t do it again? Just one time is enough to pissed me off, dumbass.” Muling malakas na pinalo ni Vesper ang tuhod ni Broza. I gritted my teeth when I heard his cries. Ilang ulit niyang ginawa iyon hanggang sa kahit umaray ay hindi na magawa ni Raphael.

“Enough. Let your men finish the job.” Nilapitan ko siya at ako na mismo ang kumuha sa hawak-hawak niya. This is the main reason why I’m here, to make sure he doesn’t fucking kill anyone. Inabot ko kay Isaac ang baseball bat.

Hindi pa nakontento si Vesper at mahigpit niyang sinabunutan si Raphael.

“Always remember this if you think a word of what happened here can get out. I’ll let you live because I can, but I can also end your life if you ever make this a problem again.” Bulong niya kay Raphael na halos wala ng malay.

“The cruel nature that my father has, I still got it in my genes whether I like it or not. So you better start making smart choices if you don’t want to end up like this again.” Marahas niyang binitawan ang buhok nito at lumakad palabas ng kwarto. I heavily sighed and looked at the three men that’s with us. Lumapit pa ako kay Isaac.

“Fix him up. Dalhin niyo sa hospital. Make sure he doesn’t say anything about what happened.” Utos ko sakaniya at tumango naman silang tatlo. I looked at Raphael again and I took off his blindfold. Halos nakapikit na siyang kinilala ako.

“If you ever mention Vesper’s name, you know what will happen.” Huli kong ani bago tuluyang lumabas sa kwartong iyon.

Sinundan ko si Vesper na nakapasok na sa kotse niya. I also went to his car and we sat in silence for a full minute before I spoke.

“When did Isaac got back?” Tanong ko. He shrugged while also looking outside the window. Tinitingnan namin ngayon ang tatlong lalaking may inaakay na baldado papasok sa isang puting van.

“Before the NQUL started.” Maikli niyang sabi. Everyone in the team knows Isaac. Simula kasi nang mangyari ang malaking aksidenteng ginawa ni Vesper last year ay pinabantayan siya ng Papa niya kay Isaac. His father told him that if he needed to kill someone, just let Isaac do it. Pero ang nakakatawa, ginawa lang utosan ni Vesper si Isaac sa mga walang kwentang bagay katulad ng pagbili ng groceries niya, snack at pinabantay pa sa mansyon nila. Isaac really came from being a skilled butler to a literal slave. Napailing ako at may naalala.

Nakita ko kahapon na pinasok ni Vesper sa kotse niya si Sulli. He probably drove him to his condo. Tiningnan ko siyang muli at nakangiti ang loko sa kawalan. Baliw na.

“Stay away from my cousin. I don’t want a man like you to be with him.” Deretso kong sabi. He didn’t say anything so I glared at him. He’s not looking at me but there’s still a small smile on his lips.

“Vesper, I’m serious.” He looked at me and he’s still smiling.

“Tell your cousin to get away from me instead. Because I don’t think I can let go of him now.” Makahulugan niyang ani at parang gusto ko agad magwala sa tigas ng ulo niya.

I’m really going to kill this bastard. Kumuha siya ulit ng sigarilyo sa bulsa niya at inis ko namang inagaw iyon sakaniya.

“Why the hell are you even smoking?” Taka ko. Because Vesper is an athlete, he rarely drinks and smoke.

“I’m just happy today.” He retorted and pulled out a smoke again. Napabuntong-hininga ako. He does smoke when he’s happy rather than when he’s stressed. A weird trait of his.

“And why are you so happy? You just ruined someone’s career by injuring his knees, creep.” Irap ko bago ibinaba ang bintana ng kotse dahil napupuno na ng usok ang kotse niya.

“This joy has nothing to do with that bastard. By the way, that brother of Sulli, what did he do for the management to let Sulli play?” Bigla niyang tanong. I looked at his face and he really seems curious.

“He’s just like you, you know? Two faced bastard. Sulli thinks his brother is so pure and innocent, but Sevan is a manipulative kid. He probably threatened or offered something to the management. He loves his brother too much.” Kinuha ko ang lighter niya at sinindihan ang hawak kong sigarilyo. I put it in my mouth and knitted my eyebrows outside the car.

“Yeah, I got that feeling from him when he talked to me. I also heard he did something to Sid because of those malicious photos.” Naibuga ko ang usok sa bibig ko dahil sa huli niyang sinabi. I looked at him with concern.

“What? That kid. He doesn’t know what Sid is capable of.” Napailing ako at dumagdag ang stress na nararamdaman ko ngayon.

“Don’t worry, I already ordered someone to watch over him. Baka nga bawian ni Sid.” Napabuntong-hininga na lamang ako sa sinabi niya. Seriously, when will this issue between him and Sid end? Ang tagal na nilang kinakalaban ang isa’t-isa. Madami na ang nadamay. I licked my lips and massaged my head. I suddenly remembered Sulli.

He worries me. Everyone around him is two faced and cruel and he doesn’t even have a tiny bit of a clue about it. I’m worried about what he will do if he ever finds out.

---

Sulli’s

Nagising ako nang maramdamang may gumagalaw sa gilid ko. I looked at the person whose touching my forehead and I immediately sat up. Agad ko iyong pinagsisihan nang maramdaman kong parang mabibiyak ang buong katawan ko mula sa pang-upo ko hanggang sa tuktuk ng ulo ko. Shit!

“Kumalma ka, iho. Katulong ako dito sa mansyon ng mga Herrera. Ipinagbilin ka saakin ng pasaway na Vesper na iyon.” Muli akong napatingin sa matandang babaeng hinahawakan ang noo ko kanina. Nakasuot siya ng uniform na nakikita kong suot ng mga katulong. Matanda na siya dahil puti na ang mga buhok niya ngunit straight na straight pa rin ang katawan niya at mukhang maliksi pa. Umiiling-iling itong pinagmamasdan ako.

“May sinat ka. Kailangan mong uminom ng gamot, kumain ka muna. Padadalhan kita rito ng pagkain.” Muli niya pang sabi nang hindi ako umimik. Agad ko naman siyang pinigilan.

“Ah, m-manang. Asan ho ba si Vesper?” Nakagat ko ang labi ko nang mapagtantong paos rin ako. Fuck. Kakaungol ko ito kagabi. Fuck that Vesper, ang tagal labasan! Halos mamatay ako kagabi sa sakit! But I also remember how amazing it was. Hindi ako nagkamali na siya ang piliing maging unang experience ko. It’s my first time but I can tell he’s so good at fucking. I thought my brains were going to explode last night.

Siya nga ata ang pinaka masarap sa kama sa buong Pilipinas!

Gusto kong sapakin ang sarili ko sa kalokohang naisip. Kaya pala ang yabang ng loko.

“Umalis kaninang umaga. Babalik rin daw agad.” Sagot ng matandang babae. Lumapit siya saakin at may inabot na damit na kanina pa ata nakahanda at nakapatong sa kamang kinahihigaan ko.

“Mag bihis ka, padadalhan kita ng pagkain.” Sabi niya pa at namula ang buong mukha ko nang mapagtantong wala akong suot na damit at tanging kumot lamang ang nakatapis sa katawan ko. Shit! Nakita niya ba akong hubad? Malamang!

“W-Wag na po, a-alis na rin naman ho ako.” Sabi ko ngunit umiling siya.

“Kung kaya mong tumayo. Sige na, kailangan kong bumaba. Antayin mo ang pagkain.” Hindi na ako nakasagot pa at tumaas ata lahat ng dugo ko sa aking ulo. Fuck! Paano niya alam na hindi ako makatayo?

“Shiit! Fuck you, Vesper! Fuck you!” Nagsisigaw ako nang makalabas si Manang. I glared at everything while thinking of Vesper. Saan ba nagpunta ang kumag na iyon? Pagkatapos niya akong gawing baldado ay umalis agad?! I will kill him!

Sa isiping iyon ay nagbihis ako ng inabot saaking damit. Malaking sando at cotton shorts ang ibinigay saakin. Jersey lang ang dala ko kahapon kaya wala akong choice. Halos maiyak ako habang gumagalaw dahil sa sakit ng katawan ko. Mas lalo akong nagpupuyos sa galit nang makitang puro pasa ang katawan ko. I’m full of hickeys! Pati ang bewang ko ay nandoon ang hand print niya. That motherfucker. Pinagbigyan ko lang, talagang sinulit!

“Ahh.. shit.” Ungot ko nang subukan kong tumayo. Fuck this! Humahangos akong nilibot ang mga mata ko at ngayon ko lang napansin ang loob ng kwarto ni Vesper. Malawak, dalawang kwarto ko na ata ito sa condo. His bed smells like him and even the whole room. King sized bed and some furnitures on the other side of the room. Natigil ang mga mata ko sa isang malaking trophy cupboard. Puno iyon ng mga trophy na halatang dahil sa pagbaba-basketball niya. May mga medals at may mga picture pa.

I-ika-ika akong lumapit roon at napapasinghal pa sa sakit na tiningnan ang mga pictures. Our team, pero wala pa ako roon. Napangiti ako nang makita ang mga pictures nila noong mga first year pa lang ata sila. Ang babata pa nila tingnan, ang c-cute ng mga kumag. Mukhang mga binatang walang gagawing mabuti. Nakita ko pa si Owen na may kulay ang buhok, kulay pula at naka buzz cut pa. Ito ata iyong panahon na idol na idol niya ang anime character na si Sakuragi. Natatawa akong tumingin pa sa iba hanggang sa natigil ang mga mata ko sa isang maliit na picture ng mga kumag ngunit may iba silang kasama na hindi ko mga kilala. Nasa pinaka gilid iyon at mukhang natatakpan na rin ng ibang trophies. Maalikabok na. Mas lalo akong na curious roon nang makita ko ang isang pamilyar na lalaki. Sid!

Kinuha ko ang picture frame at siya nga. Nasa court sila. Mukhang hindi pa sila college rito pero nandito na si Elias, Owen, Simon, Julian kasama si Vesper at Sid na magkaakbay. Ang hindi ko lang makilala ay ang isang matangkad na lalaki at magandang babae na kaakbay rin ni Vesper.

Mukhang bati pa sila dito ni Sid. I caressed the image of the unfamiliar girl with them. Ito ba si Jade? Siya siguro ito at ang lalaking matangkad na hindi ko kilala ay si Jude. She’s pretty. Maliit lang siya, mahaba ang buhok na may bangs. Maputing-maputi at ang tangos ng ilong. Tiningnan ko ang mga ngiti ni Vesper. He look so happy in this picture. Look so contented. Parang bumigat ang dibdib ko sa hindi ko malamang dahilan hanggang sa makita ko rin ang mga ngiti ni Sid. This is the first time I’m seeing a bastard like him smile so genuinely. Bagay sakaniya.

Ano nga kaya talaga ang nangyari at nagkakaganito sila ngayon? Looking at this picture, they look so happy with each other’s presence. I think may malalim pang rason kung bakit nawasak ang grupo nila.

Ibinalik ko ang picture na iyon at i-ika-ika muli akong lumakad palabas sana ng pinto ngunit bumukas na iyon. Napaatras pa ako at tuluyang natumba nang makitang bumalik na si Vesper.

“Ow!” I hissed and almost shit myself when my butt landed on the floor. Ang sakit! Sobrang sakit!

SR

Rivalry 24

Sulli’s

“Are you okay? Why are you even standing?” Nag-a-alala akong nilapitan ng loko at tinulungang makatayo. Nang makalapit siya ay amoy na amoy ko ang sigarilyo sakaniya. He smokes? Natigilan pa ako nang halikan niya ako sa noo.

“Let go of me, you bastard.” Inalis ko ang hawak niya saakin at maiyak-iyak akong lumakad palabas ng pinto. Agad niya naman akong hinarang.

“Hey, where are you going? Wag mong piliting mag lakad, I’ll carry you.” Akma niya akong kakargahin ngunit agad akong lumayo sakaniya kahit pakiramdam ko ay mahihimatay na ako sa sakit ng katawan ko. Sa ganon kaming akto naabutan ng kapatid niyang maldita.

“Kuya? Why is he here?” Mataray nitong ani habang pinagmamasdan ako habang nakataas ang kilay. Hindi ko na sana siya papansinin nang makita kong nabigla siya sa itsura ko. Tiningnan niya rin ang kuya niya at nanlaki pa ang mga mata nito. What?! Why is she looking at us like that?

“Kuya! Did you beat him up?!” Bigla niyang tili. Huh?

“What?” Taka rin ni Vesper. Kumuha pa ng selpon ang kapatid niya at agad na nag dial roon.

“I’m going to call the police! I know he’s annoying but why would you do this?” Hysterical nito at hindi ako nakakibong namamangha sa pagiging OA niya. Parehong-pareho sila ng kuya niya. Binitawan ako ni Vesper at nag martsa palapit kay Marga. Hinablot niya ang selpon nito at takang-takang tumingin sa kapatid niya.

“What are you even saying? Wala akong binubugbog.” Vesper hissed. Nakatingin lamang ako sakanilang dalawa. Damn, I want to go home and cry my ass out already. Wala nga siyang binugbog, pero pakiramdam ko ay nabugbog niya pa rin ako!

“Look at that annoying prick, ang dami niyang pasa. Who else would do that to him but you? It’s in your nature. Look at your collar.” Mataray na ani ni Marga. Did she just call me annoying prick? Inis kong tiningnan ang sinabi niya. Natigilan ako nang makitang may konting mantsa ng dugo ang suot na polo ni Vesper. Huh? Where did that come from? And what does she mean by Vesper’s nature?

“Shut up and go to your room. Stop being nosey and for the last time, I didn’t beat him up.” Pinanlakihan siya ng mga mata ni Vesper at nagtaray lang naman ito. Natigil lang sila nang dumating ulit iyong matandang babae kanina at may kasama na siyang isang medyo dalaga pang katulong rin ata dahil sa suot nitong uniform.

“Oh, Marga. Kumain ka na sa baba, nakahanda na roon ang pagkain. Vesper, pakainin mo muna ang bisita mo bago siya umalis.” Anito at humudyat sa kasama niyang babae na ipasok sa kwarto ang dala nilang tray ng pagkain. Agad naman akong nilapitan ni Vesper at inakay papasok. I glared at him but I couldn’t do anything but to enter his room again. Nahihiya na akong mag inarte sa harap ng katulong nila! Kanina ko pa gustong umuwi!

“Thank you, manang Jess.” Pasalamat ni Vesper kay manang bago ito umalis kasama iyong nagdadala ng pagkain kanina. Pinaupo niya ako sa kama at ingat na ingat pa akong pinasandal sa headboard. I was just glaring at him the whole time while there’s a light smile on his lips. Why does he look so happy?

“I’m going home.” Matalas ko muling ani. Hindi naman nawala ang ngiti niya saakin at kumuha pa ng pagkain at umupo sa harapan ko. He attempted to feed me but I shook my head.

“I said I want to go home, Vesper.” Pangungulit ko sakaniya. Ibinaba niya naman ang hawak niyang pagkain at seryosong tumingin saakin.

“Looking like that? You look like you’re going to die if you stand up.” Hinawakan niya ang balikat ko at nagulat pa ako nang ilapit niya saakin ang mukha niya at nakawan ako ng halik sa labi. I glared at him.

“Stay until you get better. Wala naman tayong laro for two days, you need to get better in two days so you can play again. Let me take care of you.” Malumanay ang tono niya at hindi agad ako nakaimik. Why is he suddenly being so gentle? It’s making me feel weird in my stomach. I tsked.

“I can take care of myself-”

“No you can’t. Let me do it, ako naman ang gumawa niyan sa’yo. Anyway, how was it?” Bumalik ang pilyo niyang ngisi habang nakatingin saakin. I gritted my teeth and shot him a death glare.

“I didn’t know if you were having sex with me or trying to kill me!” Irap ko at natawa naman siya sa sinabi ko.

“Huh? But you were moaning so loud, you even put it back yourself when it slipped out-” Sinipa ko siya at agad akong napahiway dahil sa dulot na sakit niyon sa pang-upo ko.

“Shit! Shit! You were really trying to kill me!” Napahiga ako sa kama at nakita kong nataranta naman siyang inalalayan agad ako.

“Stay put. ’Wag na kasing makulit, Sulli. Let me feed you and take care of you, then after you get better, you can go home.” Mahaba niyang ani at naghahabol ng hininga naman akong nakagat ang labi ko. Napatango na lamang ako sa gusto niya dahil wala rin naman akong choice.

“Fine, but I can eat by myself.” Pagmamatigas ko pa at kinuha ang mangkok na may lamang lugaw na kanina ko pa naaamoy. Amoy masarap at mukhang masarap rin. Sumubo ako ng isa at nagtuloy-tuloy na iyon nang malasahan kong masarap nga. Pinanuod niya lang naman ako bago mahinang natawa. I ignored him and he stood up. Tiningnan ko siya dahil nakatalikod naman siya saakin. Lumapit siya sa closet niya at naghubad roon ng damit.

I was staring at him getting rid of his shirt while I was eating. Nang mahubad niya ang suot niya ay natigilan pa ako nang makita kong ang daming kalmot sa likod niya. Shit. Did I do all of that? Halos mapuno ang likod pati na rin ang balikat niya ng mga mahahaba at maiikling kalmot na alam kong ako ang may gawa. Meron rin sa mataas na parte ng braso niya. I swallowed and felt guilty. I’m sure that hurts a lot. Pero nawala rin ang awa ko nang maalala ang sakit sa pwet ko.

Hah! He deserves that after all!

Natigil ako sa pag-iisip nang may kumatok sa pinto. Natigil rin sa pagbibihis si Vesper at naka shorts lamang na lumakad palapit sa pinto.

“Vex, it’s me.” Napakunot-noo ako sa malalim na boses ng lalaking kumatok. Vex? Pinagbuksan naman siya ni Vesper at tumambad saamin ang matangkad na lalaki na naka all black outfit. Tumaas ang kilay ko. Gwapo siya at may bangs, maputi at sure akong nag w-work out dahil sa tindig niya. May mga dala siyang paper bag at natigilan lamang ako nang tumama ang tingin nito saakin. Natigil ko ang nginunguya kong kanin sa bibig.

“Come in.” Alok naman ni Vesper at pumasok nga ang lalaki. Nakita ko pang natigilan ito nang makita ang mga kalmot sa likod ni Vesper dahil bumalik ang loko sa pagbibihis sa harap ng cabinet. Parang gusto ko namang pumunta sa ilalim ng kama ni Vesper nang sumulyap saakin nang makahulugan itong tinawag niyang Isaac.

Shit! He knows I did that to Vesper!

“Was the ointment for your back?” Tanong niya habang inilalagay ang mga hawak niyang paper bag sa sofa sa kabilang side ng kwarto malapit sa kama na kinahihigaan ko. Mukhang hindi pa siya kumbinsido na para nga sa likod iyon ni Vesper. Bakit kaya? Humarap naman sakaniya si Vesper na tapos na mag bihis ng T-Shirt.

“No, it’s for Sulli. Ah, he’s the one I told you about.” Sagot ni Vesper at pinanlakihan ko siya ng mga mata ngunit hindi tumitingin saakin ang loko. Anong ibig niyang sabihin?! Sino ba ’tong Isaac? Lumapit siya sa paper bags na dala nitong lalaki at tiningnan pa ang mga laman niyon.

“Hello, my name is Isaac. Vesper’s personal butler.” Naibaba ko ang hawak kong mangkok nang bigla siyang lumapit saakin at inabot ang kamay niya. I immediately took it even tho I’m still shock that Vesper actually have a personal butler.

“Wow, a personal butler. Who is he, the King of England?” Hindi ko napigilang ani. It was supposed to be a joke but the guy didn’t even laughed and just stared at me like I’m crazy. Napangiwi ako at narinig ko pang mahinang natawa si Vesper. I snickered at him before smiling at Isaac again.

“I’m just kidding. I’m Sullivan, call me Sulli.” Nahihiya ko na lamang na pakilala. Binawi niya naman na ang kamay niya at tipid na ngumiti saakin.

“He is indeed from Britain, sir Sulli.” Sagot niya pa at namamangha akong tumingin kay Vesper. He’s British? That explains his dirty-blonde hair but not his Filipino surname. Lumapit naman saamin si Vesper na dala ang isa sa mga paper bags.

“Just call him Sulli, Isaac. Go on, have your breakfast downstairs.” Tinaboy na siya ni Vesper at tumatango naman itong sumunod. Nang makaalis siya ay agad akong nagtanong kay Vesper.

“Why the hell do you need a personal butler?” Bulalas ko sakaniya. He sat in front of me again before answering.

“My father just gave him to me. I don’t know why, I just let him be. You can use him to do some errands, he’s one call away. I’ll give you his number.” Sabi niya at nawiwindang ko naman siyang tiningnan. Gusto ko man tanungin kung sino ang ama niya ngunit natuto na akong huwag masiyadong ma curious. I just fucking learned something I didn’t even want to know just because I was nosey.

“Why would I need someone to do my own errands? No thanks, rich boy.” Ani ko pa at tiningnan ko naman ang kinukuha niya sa paper bag na hawak niya. Ointment iyon na nakalagay sa silver na tube.

“I know your family is crazy rich too. I told him to serve you whenever you want to, he’s more than happy to do so.” Dagdag niya pa pero naka focus na ang atensyon ko sa hawak niya.

“Is that a fucking anusol cream?” Singhal ko. Tumango naman siya at ngumisi saakin.

“Let’s put it on your swelling ass.” He schemingly said but I quickly grabbed his blonde hair. Agad naman siyang umaray ngunit nag-init na ang buong mukha ko sa ginawa niya.

“Aray! Sulli!” Kaya pala nagtaka si Isaac na para sakaniya iyong ointment!

“You told your butler to buy anusol cream for me?! Are you crazy?!” Buong lakas kong sigaw. He’s so fucking shameless!

---

Sid’s

“Babe, you weren’t picking up my calls.” Inangat ko ang tingin ko sa nagsalita at nakita ko si Marga na hindi maipinta ang mukha. She sat beside me and immediately clung onto my arms. Hinayaan ko naman siya at sumimsim sa hawak kong baso ng alak habang nakatingin sa swimming pool na may mga taong lumalangoy habang nag i-inuman. We are at a club called Fury. Isa ito sa mga tambayan namin ng mga tropa noong high school pa man.

“How’s your brother, Marga?” Biglang tanong ni Teddy na nasa kabilang upuan. I looked at him and he’s smirking at her.

“Huh? What about my brother?” Taka niya. Inabutan naman ako ni Jace ng sigarilyo at sinindihan pa iyon.

“You didn’t know? Raphael Broza is at a hospital right now, he can’t play basketball anymore. Not in NQUL, probably injured forever.” I licked my lips and couldn’t help but snickered at what he said. Typical Vesper.

“And you think my brother has something to do with that?” Ani pa ni Marga. Tumawa naman sila.

“Magtataka ka pa ba? Broza’s knees were beaten into a pulp, who do you think has the guts to do that?” Quentin mockingly said. Humigpit ang hawak saakin ni Marga.

“He likes that new small forward of his, right? Raphael was stupid enough to taunt him, kinagat ba naman si Sulli sa harapan ni Vesper.” Napailing si Dexter. Muli akong napatingin sa swimming pool nang banggitin niya si Sulli. I kissed that guy right there, and I still can’t forget about his sweet mouth. He’s really interesting.

Naalala ko ang mukha niya kahapon nang kagatin siya ni Raphael. He was in pain but his face was beautifully contorted. Nahubad ang tali sa mahaba niyang buhok and boy, he looks etheral when he’s wearing his jersey and his hair isn’t tied. I can’t blame Raphael for taking a liking to him. Almost everyone in the crowd was amazed not only for his looks but his talent in playing. He may not look like it, but he’s a real basketball star. Small but terrible.

I chuckled to myself when I heard him shouting at Vesper and the latter actually shut his mouth up. He likes him that much, huh? This is making me feel so excited.

“My kuya is not gay, excuse me? He’s annoying and shit but I don’t think he likes men.” Duda pa ni Marga. I chuckled and she looked at me questioningly. Hindi naman ako kumibo.

“He obviously likes Sulli, that guy doesn’t even look like a boy. Kahit ako, I like his pretty face.” Jace retorted. Napaungot naman si Marga sakaniya at nakita kong lumalim ang iniisip nito.

“What the hell..” She silently exclaimed like she just remembered something.

“Why?” I asked. Kunot na kunot ang noo niya habang napapaisip pa rin.

“I saw Sulli earlier this morning, he’s with my brother. He looks beaten up, ang akala ko nga ay sinaktan siya ni kuya..” Hindi niya naituloy ang sasabihin niya bago nanlaki ang mga mata nito.

“Fuck! That wasn’t bruises! It was hickeys! Ang akala ko ay mga pasa iyong nasa katawan ni Sulli. Ugh! Disgusting.” Nanginig pa siya habang tumaas naman ang gilid ng labi ko. They already fucked? Natawa naman silang apat.

“Nakuha na agad siya ni Vesper? Man, that’s so disappointing. I thought you also like him, Sid?” Teddy asked and Marga immediately shot him a glare. Nagbangayan silang dalawa. I just chuckled at them and shook my head.

This is getting exciting. Vesper is going to fall in love again. May rason nanaman ako para maungasan siya. Sa isiping iyon ay nilagok ko ang alak sa basong hawak ko.

I can’t wait to get Sulli for myself.

SR

Rivalry 25

TW: Sweet nothing between two individuals who are not in a relationship

😝

Sulli’s

“Done.” I looked at Vesper’s face when he said that with a smile. Katatapos niya lang akong punasan sa buong katawan ko. He said I have a slight fever so I can’t take a shower, hindi rin ako maayos na makatayo so he insisted on wiping my body with wet towels. It was warm but still made me feel better, I felt freshened up.

“Thank you..” Mahina kong sabi. I really wanted to go home so I can properly think about what just happened between us but he wouldn’t let me go until I could walk properly again. Wala akong magawa and I’m staying the night in his room again. He’s terrorizing me!

“I’ll just take a quick shower and be with you.” Tumayo siya at sinabi iyon. I was about to shout at him what he meant by that but he was immediately inside the shower room. Nakagat ko ang labi ko at inayos na lamang ang higa ko sa malambot niyang kama. Napatitig ako sa mataas na ceiling sa loob ng kwarto niya.

Despite the pain in my ass right now, I feel so comfortable because of Vesper. He’s really taking care of me so gently. Napapikit ako at gusto kong kaltukin ang sarili kong ulo.

Compared to the Vesper I’ve first met, his actions right now are incomparable to before. I’m finding the answers of his actions towards me inside my head. And the only thing I can find is because he had sex with me.

Is he always like this with his sex partners? Is this normal when you have a physical relationship with someone? Dapat ba talagang may aftercare pagkatapos gawin ’yon? I can’t really tell because this is my first time. Sebastian has always been caring towards me even tho we didn’t get to do it. This wasn’t the first time someone is trying to tend to me so genuinely and tenderly but with Vesper, it’s making me feel something I don’t even know what to call it. But I surely know it’s making me feel better and I’m liking it. Iyon ang problema ko ngayon, I’m fucking liking it!

I should not. Ang sabi ko sakaniya ay pagkatapos namin ay saka ko sasabihin kung tatapusin na namin ito o hindi. But right now, I don’t even know what to say anymore! Napabuntong-hininga ako at natigil sa kaiisip nang lumabas muli sa shower room si Vesper. I immediately looked at him and he was only wearing boxer shorts. I saw his happy trail below his bellybutton and when my eyes landed on his scrotch, I still couldn’t believe something huge like that entered me!

“You like it?” Bigla niyang tanong habang naglalakad palapit saakin. Mabilis kong iniwas ang tingin ko sakaniya. He’s drying his hair with a towel while looking down at me.

“Like it my ass.” Sagot ko sakaniya. He chuckled and sat on the edge of the bed while still looking at me.

“I noticed you keep looking at my abdominal hair whenever you have the chance. You have a thing for it, Princess?” His tone was teasing so I glared at him.

“Fuck off. I’m just curious why almost all of your body hair is dirty-blonde.” Rason ko pa. Nagpatuloy naman siya sa pagtuyo sa buhok niya habang nasaakin ang tingin.

“I’m half British. My Papa is from Britain, my mother is Filipino.” Sagot niya. Napatango naman ako. I’ve been dying to know that.

“Where are they?” Pa simple kong tanong kahit na noon ko pa iyon gustong malaman. Nasabi niya kasi na siya at kapatid niya lang ang nandito sa bahay nila, kasama ang mga katulong at si Isaac. He stopped drying his hair and threw the towel at the sofa near us.

“Why? You want to meet them?” Nainis ako sa sinagot niya saakin. He doesn’t want to answer the question, tsk. It’s so obvious.

“Why would I? No thanks.” Irap ko at tumagilid ng higa para hindi siya makita. I felt him moved and I flinched when he suddenly embraced me from behind. “Hey!” Saway ko.

“What? We already did it, I still can’t hug you?” Sinulyapan ko siya at magtataray sana ngunit natigilan ako sa mukha niya. He’s teasingly smiling at me while his eyes are looking sultry. His hair is down and he genuinely looks so good right now. Mabilis kong iniwas ang tingin ko nang mapagtantong napatitig ako sakaniya.

“Are you always this sweet to whoever you bed?” Tanong ko. I heard him groan.

“What? No? I barely even have sex with people. And I honestly think you’re the first person I brought home.” Sabi niya pa habang humihigpit ang yakap saakin mula sa likod. Hinayaan ko lamang siya. It actually feels nice.

“Ikaw? Barely sleep with people? Who’s going to believe you?” Pwede pa akong maniwala na bihira siya umuwi ng tao rito sa bahay nila but saying he barely has sex with people? Ugh, everyone likes him inside and outside our university. He literally has unending choices for sex partners. I’m envious!

“I’m serious. I do have some fair experiences with women, but I’m solely into basketball all my life and you know the life of athletes.” Kumbinse niya saakin ngunit may naalala ako. Right, he was straight!

“Now that I think of it, I was your gay awakening.” Mayabang kong ani. Kumunot naman ang noo niya.

“Gay awakening?” Taka niya. Natawa ako.

“I’m the reason you experience same-sex attraction. A realization that you are actually gay.” Sabi ko at napaungot naman siya.

“But you are the only guy that attracted me. Does that count me as gay?” He genuinely asked with pure curiosity. Maingat naman akong humarap sakaniya para makapag-usap kami nang maayos.

“I think so. I’m just the first guy that attracted you, after this, I think you will find the desire to explore more.” Sinabi ko iyon para masagot siya ngunit kumunot ang noo ko sa isiping pagkatapos nito ay mayron pa nga siyang ibang lalaking magugustohan. That feels weird. Do I really like him?

“I’m revolted just thinking about it, Sulli. I don’t think I like men, I just like you.” Sagot niya pa. For some reason, that felt satisfying to hear. But I still retorted.

“How can you tell? What did you like about me, anyway? My looks? My body? You can always find someone prettier and sexier than me.” Sabi ko pa. My chest is feeling heavy with my own words but my mouth can’t stop speaking bullshit!

I heard him chuckle softly.

“Sure, I was attracted to your visuals. You look so pretty, I’m sure you know that. But I think I was more drawn to your attitude towards me. You didn’t back down to me. You bullied me back when I bullied you.” Pareho kaming natawa sa huli niyang sinabi.

“Do you actually believe that?” I teased. Tumango naman siya saakin na parang nag-i-isip pa.

“Yeah. I mean, I’ve met a lot of gays that’s also pretty and even look and dress like a girl. Elias brother for example. But I didn’t feel anything like how I felt when I first saw you…” Mukhang natigilan siya sa sinabi niya nang tingnan ko siya nang nang-a-asar. He just admitted I attracted him the first time he saw me! Hindi naman na siya makatingin saakin kaya natatawa akong napailing. Napatitig ako sakaniya at may napagtanto.

“You weren’t comfortable talking to me like this before. Palaging tumataas ang boses mo kapag hindi mo na alam ang isasagot saakin. What changed?” Tanong ko. Natahimik naman siya nang ilang segundo habang ang mga kamay niya ay nakahawak sa bewang ko. He keeps staring at my face na akala mo ay hindi nagsasawa sa nakikita.

“I don’t know. Maybe because I already accepted that I do like you even if you’re a man? I think that’s it.” Pareho kaming napatango sa sinabi niya. I should’ve known it sooner. He was acting so immature and mean to me because he was in denial of his feelings. Typical straight!

“Sulli, can I kiss you?” Natigilan ako nang bigla siyang magtanong. I looked at his face and he was already staring intently at me. Napalunok naman ako at napaiwas nang tingin. I didn’t say anything but I knew he felt my consent. Inilapit niya saakin ang mukha niya at naglapat ang mga labi namin. Agad kong ibinuka ang bibig ko para salubungin ang halik niya.

We kissed like we needed each other so badly and I didn’t complain. I always like it when he’s so dominant when kissing me. Sumusunod lamang ako sa agos na gusto niya. We sucked each other’s mouth, explored each other’s cavity until we were both panting already. Doon lamang naghiwalay ang mga labi namin at napatitig sa isa’t-isa. I can’t believe I actually miss the feeling of getting pounded by him, not including the painful part of course. Masarap. Masarap nga siya sa kama katulad ng sinasabi niya saakin. I can’t believe I’m actually saying this.

“Sul.. you’re an athlete but your stamina was so weak. I think you need to train more.” Ani niya habang hingal pa rin ako. I couldn’t understand him.

“What? Why?” Taka ko. Natigilan naman ako nang may dumikit na matigas na bagay sa legs ko.

“I wanted to fuck you until dawn last night, but just one round and you were already passed out. Now I’m craving for more— aray!” Agad kong sinabunutan ang buhok niya dahil sa mga sinasabi niya. This bastard is really turning shameless!

“Shut up! Pervert!” Singhal ko sakaniya at tinalikuran ko siya ulit. I heard him chuckling before hugging me again from behind. My eyebrows were knitted tightly while my eyes were already closed. He nuzzled me and I let him.

We both fell asleep peacefully. Kung hindi lang sa matigas na bagay na nakadiin sa pang-upo ko magdamag ay kikiligin na sana ako.

He’s such a horny jerk.

SR

A/N: Short update lng muna, nag transfer kasi ako ng school and shift ng course kaya na busy ang bading.

Rivalry 26

ERRORS AHEAD!

Vesper’s

“Kuya, hey. Can you wake up already?” Naimulat ko ang mga mata ko nang marinig ko ang boses ni Marga. Kunot-noo ko siyang tiningnan at umagang-umaga ay nagtataray nanaman ang pasaway. Naka uniform na siya at nakataas kilay saakin. Napabangon naman ako nang mapagtantong wala na akong katabi.

“The hell? Where’s Sulli?” Tanong ko dahil wala na siya sa kama. Hindi na naalis ang kunot sa noo ko. Maayos na ba siyang nakakapaglakad? Is his bum already okay? Halos dalawang araw rin siyang maputla dahil sa ginawa namin. Did he already ran away?

“I saw him walking out of the house so early in the morning. Isaac drove him home, I guess. Anyway, are you in a relationship with that guy? Are you for real?” Mas lalong tumaas ang kilay niya at mukhang nandiri pa. Napairap ako.

Why did Isaac drive him home without telling me first? Sweet naman kami kagabi, bakit tinakasan kaya ako ng lokong ’yun? Is he really going to stay away from me just because he doesn’t find me attractive anymore? I know he’s fucking lying.

“Whatever you want to say about him, save it. Wala nang mas nakakasuklam pa kaysa sa lalaking kinahihibangan mo.” Seryoso kong ani sakaniya dahil alam kong madudumi nanaman ang lalabas sa bibig niya patungkol kay Sulli. Why does she hate him so much? That guy was ready to save her from Sid even tho they weren’t close and in good terms. She will always be ungrateful to people who truly cares for her. Pero mahal na mahal niya ang gagong Sid na ’yon na pinaglalaruan lamang siya.

“Wow. Defensive agad? Just so you know, I’m trying to tell you to be in a relationship with him.” Natigil ako sa paglalakad papuntang banyo nang sabihin niya iyon. Kunot-noo akong lumingon sakaniya.

“And why is that?” Ako naman ang tumaas ang kilay. Her lips twitched and she suddenly looks pissed.

“Because I don’t want Sid to be with him. He has taken a liking to that little gay guy of yours. I hate it.” Hindi agad ako nakaimik sa sinabi niya bago inis na natawa. I walked towards her and looked at her mockingly.

“Hindi ko alam kung saan nagmana ang utak mo, but are you really stooping this low just so you can have someone like him to yourself? Marga, he doesn’t love you. He will never will.” Inis ngunit seryoso kong sabi. Tumalas naman ang mga tingin niya saakin at malakas akong tinulak.

“You know nothing about us. Just fucking be with that gay boy and leave us alone.” Nakita kong nangilid ang mga luha sa mga mata niya bago tumalikod saakin at naglakad palapit sa pinto ng kwarto ko. Is she fucking crying again because of that shithead?

“You should tell that to Sid, leave Sullivan the fuck alone or he knows what I can do.” Pahabol na ani ko ngunit malakas niya lamang na isinara ang pinto ng kwarto. Napapahangos akong napapikit at agad na sumakit ang ulo ko dahil kay Marga.

When will she fucking accept it that Sid isn’t the same Sid who she fell in love with before? She has too much hope for him, I also did before. But Sid chose his own path, and it was a path I will never walk to.

Napahangos akong muli at natigilan lamang nang bumukas ulit ang pinto at pumasok si Isaac na naka all black outfit nanaman.

“Why did you not tell me you were going to drive Sulli to his condo? You should’ve let me know.” Bungad ko agad sakaniya. Napakurap-kurap naman siya saakin bago sumagot.

“Yesterday you told me to do whatever he tells me to do. So I did.” He said monotoned and I couldn’t say anything but just sigh. I did fucking tell him to do that. Can’t believe it will backfire so early.

“But he forgot his sports bag inside your car. Should I deliver it to hi—”

“I’ll do it. Magkikita rin naman kami ngayon sa court.” Ngisi ko ngunit tinitigan niya lang ako nang walang emosyon sa mukha. Napangiwi ako. Ice cold bastard.

---

Sulli’s

“Turner, where is Turner?!” Mabilis akong lumabas sa pinagtataguan ko nang sumigaw ang coach. Lahat ng teammates ko ay napatingin saakin, ganon rin ang maiinit na mata ni Vesper na alam kong kanina pa ako hinahanap. Nagtago talaga ako hangga’t hindi pa kami kailangan pumasok sa court dahil iniiwasan ko siya!

Shit. Ngayong nakabalik na ako sa labas ng mansyon nila, ngayon ko lang rin napagtanto ang mga nangyari saamin ni Vesper. Fuck. I let myself get involved with him!

“You’re late! And why aren’t you wearing your own jersey?” Tanong ng coach. Napakamot ako sa leeg ko bago sumagot.

“I-I lost it somewhere, coach.” Suot ko ngayon ang jersey ni Owen na hiniram ko dahil naiwan ko ang jersey ko pati na ang sports bag ko sa bahay ni Vesper. Kagat-labi akong napaiwas na lamang ng tingin sakanila.

“You better find it before the next game. Get in your position.” Utos niya pa at nagsi-upuan naman ang ibang teammates namin sa bench kasama ang coach at si Owen, kaming lima naman nila Elias ay inantay na pumito ang isa sa mga referees para pumunta sa gitna ng court. Marami ngayon ang nanunuod, puno ang gymnasium ngayon probably because we are now at our university, Haraya. We are competing against Alta Sierra University today.

“It’s been days and the bruise on your neck got darker instead of fading. Does it still hurt?” Nagitla ako nang marinig ko ang boses ni Elias na tumabi saakin habang nag w-warm up siya. Napangiwi ako at nahawakan ang leeg. Shit. I forgot to put bandage on it. Nakalimutan ko na sa sobrang pag-i-isip ko sa mga nangyari saamin ni Vesper. Nag-init pa ang pisnge ko nang maalalang paulit-ulit iyon kinagat at sinipsip ni Vesper noong may nangyari saamin kaya hanggang ngayon ay maitim pa rin at mas lalo pang lumala. Damn that bastard. May lahi ba siyang aso?

“It doesn’t hurt, my skin is just extra sensitive.” Pagsisinungaling ko. Napatango naman siya at muli akong nagitla nang may biglang umakbay saakin. Elias and I both looked at Vesper who’s faintly smiling at the both of us. Humigpit ang akbay niya saakin nang magsalita siya.

“I was looking for you for hours, where have you been? Why did you runaway?” Pinanlakihan ko siya ng mga mata nang sinadya niyang iparinig iyon kay Elias na nakita kong agad na nagtaka sa mga sinabi niya. Sisikuhin ko na sana siya at magsasalita ngunit pumito na ang referee. Nakahinga ako nang maluwag dahil nakaligtas ako sakanilang dalawa. Dali-dali akong umalis sa pagkakaakbay ni Vesper at lakad-takbong pumosisyon sa loob ng court. Elias also got ready for the jump ball.

Nang magsimula ang laro ay agad kong naramdaman ang sakit ng pang-upo ko lalong-lalo na ang balakang ko. Lihim akong napamura at tiniis iyon. I’m sweating because of the pain! Shit. Damn you, Vesper!

“Sul!” Agad kong kinuha ang bola nang ibato saakin iyon ni Julian. I dribbled it while looking at the opponent in front of me. Ace Agento, Alta Sierra’s basketball team captain. I’m not gonna lie, they’re good, real good. Kahit na may iniinda akong sakit sa katawan ay nag e-enjoy ako sa laro dahil magaling ang kalaban. This is making me feel excited, halata rin sa crowd na tutok sila sa laro dahil parehong magaling ang team na magkalaban.

“Are you gonna score, cutie?” My brows knitted when Ace suddenly asked. His tone is not mocking me, he’s just really asking while smiling at me genuinely. Lalong kumunot ang noo ko sakaniya. The hell? He looks creepy with that smile.

“Guess.” I answered before winking at him and doing a turn. Hindi siya agad nakagalaw kaya malaya kong nai-shoot ang bola sa ring. The crowd loudly cheered and I looked at Ace who looks amazed rather than annoyed.

“I guessed right.” Ngiti niya pa saakin. We both chuckled and I tapped his shoulder in a friendly manner before going back to the game. Compared sa una kong laro sa NQUL, sila ang pinaka friendly at maayos na naging kalaban namin. It’s probably because they know how to play good sport, magagaling rin sila kaya hindi nila kailangan gumawa nang kung ano-anong kalokohan para manalo. But I’ll make sure we are going to win against them. Their team captain is also friendly and chill maybe that’s why his team is also like that. They’re good opponent.

“Are you gonna marry that bastard?” Nagulat ako nang may biglang bumulong sa likod ko habang tumatakbo ako. I looked at Vesper who looks pissed. Again? Kailan ba hindi nainis ang isang ’to? And what is he saying?

“What?” Taka ko. Ipinasa naman ni Simon ang bola sakaniya ngunit may nasabi pa siya bago tumakbo palayo saakin at mag shoot.

“Stop smiling at Agento.” Mariin niyang sabi at tinapik ako sa balikat nang maka score siya. I almost laughed out of annoyance when he did that. Is he mad because I was being friendly to the opponent? Tsk. His usual immature self is back. Napapailing akong natawa at bumalik sa laro.

Habang patagal nang patagal ang laro ay pasakit nang pasakit rin ang balakang ko. I’m technically bathing in sweat right now. And it’s not funny because even my hands are sweaty! Nahihirapan na akong hawakan ang bola kaya paulit-ulit akong nagpupunas sa suot kong jersey.

The game became intense maybe because malapit lang ang score namin sa isa’t-isa. Lahat kami naging madamot na sa bola dahil crucial na ang score, Vesper also instructed us to not let them get the ball if possible. Because everytime they get the ball, they will definitely score. Kaya kahit masakit ang katawan ay mas naging attentive ako sa bola.

The crowd cheered when Elias and one of the opponent fight for the ball. Nag agawan sila at malakas iyong nakuha ni Elias at agad na ipinasa saakin. I caught it but I cursed out loud when it slipped through my wet hands. Shit! Bumilis ang tibok ng puso ko nang makita kong tumakbo ang team captain nila palapit sa bola. I immediately tried to do my best and run towards the ball again. Ang nasa isip ko lamang ay makuha ang bola katulad ng gusto ni Vesper na huwag ibigay sakanila. I dive for the ball with great determination but I accidentally stepped onto a slippery side. Nanlaki ang mga mata ko at napamura sa isip nang maramdaman kong matutumba ako.

“Shit! Ouch!” Ang bilis ng pangyayari at bumangga ako kay Ace na hinahabol rin ang bola. We crashed into each other and when we both landed, the crowd suddenly went wild. Not because someone scored but because I landed onto his lap! Fuck! Humigpit ang hawak ko sa balikat niya dahil naroon ako napahawak kanina nang matumba kami. I gripped his shoulders and hissed because my butt suddenly felt like being ripped open once again. Damn it!

“Soft landing.” Ace said with a teasing tone. Doon ko lamang napagtanto kung bakit nagwala ang mga nanunuod. Fucking hell. They’re teasing us! Ace laughed when he saw my shocked embarrassed face but it was cut off when someone pulled me to stand. I came face to face with Vesper’s rage. Matalas agad ang mga mata niya at ramdam ko ang malalim at mabilis niyang hangos habang nakatingin saakin. His eyes are freaking twitching from anger.

“Get your ass on the bench.” Matigas niyang ani. Mas lalo pa ata siyang nag ngitngit sa galit nang tumayo si Ace at tumawa saamin bago humingi saakin ng paumanhin.

“Sorry for the crash, I hope you’re not hurt.” Ngiti niya at tinapik pa akong muli bago tumalikod saamin. Agad naman akong hinila ni Vesper papunta sa bench.

“Why is that bastard all smile, so fucking nice for what.” Narinig ko siyang nagsasalita habang hinihila ako papunta sa gilid. Napalingon ako sa court at nakita kong nag m-mop sila dahil ata nabasa ang court. Maybe because of my buckets of sweats! Damn it. My whole body hurts. And why is Vesper so mad again? Is it because I couldn’t get the ball?

“Are you hurt? You look pale, have a seat.” Inalalayan ako ni Owen nang makalapit kami sa bench. Umupo ako at nagulat pa nang bigyan ako ng tubig at towel ni Vesper na halatang galit pa rin.

“Masakit kasi katawan ko, n-namali pagtulog.” Pagsisinungaling ko kay Owen. Vesper looked at me and sighed.

“Theo will finish the game, get some rest.” He said and I was about to protest but the referee already whistled and they all got back at the game. Naiinis akong napahangos. Kainis! Kasalanan niya ’to ’e, nanghihina ako because he fucked me too hard! It was my first time and he wasn’t gentle at all. Hindi ko tuloy matapos ang laro!

“You wanna get checked? Maputla ka talaga, Sulli.” Nag-a-alalang sabi ni Owen pero inilingan ko siya.

“I’m okay.” Tanging sagot ko at tumayo.

“Where are you going?” Tanong pa ni Owen nang lumakad ako paalis.

“I gotta pee.” Pagsisinungaling ko. Gusto ko lang talaga i-check kung napunit ba ulit ang entrada ko! Shit. Ang sakit nang pagkakabangga ko kay Ace Agento. Pakiramdam ko ay napunit talaga ang pang-upo ko.

Owen told me to be quick and I just nodded before walking away. Naglakad ako sa exit ng gymnasium. Palabas na sana ako nang mahinto ako sa mga narinig mula sa mga babaeng nakaupo sa bleachers.

“Ang hot talaga maglaro ni Vesper! I’m in love!”

“Kaya nga, lalo na kapag kumukunot ang noo niya, he looks hot when he’s pissed!” Nagtilian sila at kung ano-ano pa ang mga sinasabi. Gumilid ako ng pwesto at taas kilay na tiningnan ang tinitilian nila na naglalaro ngayon sa loob ng court.

Come to think of it, hindi ko pa siya napapanuod maglaro as an audience. Palagi kasi kaming sabay na pumapasok sa court kaya nakakalaro ko lamang siya. My eyes focused on the handsome man with dirty blonde hair inside the court. He’s sweating, his eyebrows are knitted and his red lips are apart from each other, probably taking breaths because he hasn’t had a break since the first quarter. Nakagat ko ang labi ko nang mapagtantong tama nga iyong mga tumitiling mga babae.

He looks hot when he’s playing.

Napalunok ako nang maagaw niya ang bola sa kalaban at nagtilian ang audience kasabay nang pagtira niya ng bola. Mas lalo pang nagwala ang mga nanunuod nang sa wakas ay ngumiti ang loko at kumaway pa sa mga nanunuod. I scoffed a chuckle and rolled my eyes. What a heartthrob jerk. Natigilan ako nang makita ko siyang tumakbo palapit kay Ace Agento at tinapik ito sa balikat, I saw him saying something but I couldn’t hear it of course. Pero alam kong nambubully nanaman ang loko dahil mukhang gulat at offended ang mukha ng team captain ng Alta Sierra. Muli akong mahinang natawa.

“You are so immature, Captain. But you do look hot when you are playing.” I muttered to myself while still looking at him. They started running again and I couldn’t take my eyes off of him. Hindi ko namalayan kung gaano ko siya katagal pinanuod hanggang sa wala na akong ibang naririnig sa paligid. I was so engrossed and amazed by his looks and every little thing he does inside the court that everything seems to slow down, even the movement of his eyes that somehow met mine after he shot a three points. Napalunok ako at bumilis ang tibok ng puso ko nang ngumiti siya saakin kasabay nang malakas na tunog na nag i-indicate na tapos na ang laro. We won. Biglang umingay muli ang paligid at halos mapamura akong umiwas ng tingin kay Vesper na palapit sana saakin. Dali-dali akong lumabas ng gymnasium habang nag-i-init ang mukha sa kahihiyan.

“Fuck.” I muttered under my breath and realized what just happened to me. Nang alam kong malayo na ako sa gymnasium ay napatigil ako sa paglakad-takbo at natutulalang hinawakan ang dibdib ko. My heart is still beating so fast and all I could think of is how Vesper looked at me and smiled.

“Damn it, Sulli. You fucking like him.” Nanghihina kong pag-amin sa sarili at napaupo sa gitna ng quadrangle kung saan ako nakarating. Nasabunutan ko ang sarili kong buhok at kinastigo ang sarili.

My heart is easily swayed by that handsome jerk.

SR

A/N: Isa lng muna, nahihirapan ako mag type sa new phone ko, wala siya nung mga features ng old phone ko

😓

Rivalry 27

Sulli’s

“Baby..” Mula sa pagkakayuko ay napatingala ako nang may magsalita sa harap ko. Nanlaki agad ang mga mata ko nang makita ko si Seba na nakababa ang tingin saakin. Agad akong napatayo at napaatras sakaniya.

“Why are you here? Paano ka nakapasok?” Gulat kong tanong. It’s been awhile since I saw him. He looks different.. like he’s stress or something.

“I watched your game since Sevan finally couldn’t come.” Sabi niya at kumunot ang noo ko. Finally couldn’t come? Ano pa bang gusto niyang makuha saakin? I shouldn’t waste any time on him anymore. I’m now happy without him.

“Okay.” Tanging sagot ko at tatalikod na sana ngunit lumapit siya at pinigilan ako.

“Wait, I just want to tell you something.” He grabbed my shoulders to make me look at him. Nagpumiglas ako at matalas siyang tiningnan nang hindi niya ako bitawan.

“Let go, what more do you want from me?” Inis kong ani. Humangos naman siya nang malalim bago hinawakan ang magkabilang pisnge ko at inilapit saakin ang mukha niya. I glared at him when he stared at my eyes with longing.

Damn it, ano bang ginagawa niya?

“I miss you. I know we won’t go back to how it was before, but I just want to warn you about your brother before I get out of your life.” Natigil ako sa pagpupumiglas sa huli niyang sinabi. Mas lalo ko siyang tiningnan nang masama.

“What?” Inis kong tanong. I stared at him and he’s looking at me like he’s about to cry. What’s happening to him?

“Everything that happened between me and Sevan, it was all his plan so he can ruin us. I know it’s also my fault somehow, I couldn’t see right through him before. I’m saying this so when you finally love someone else other than me, don’t let Sevan ruin it again.” Mahaba niyang sabi habang nangingilid ang mga luha. I absorbed everything that he’s saying and couldn’t help but laugh at his face.

“Are you seriously blaming my little brother for ruining us? Seba, you chose what you did. Own it and stop fucking with me.” Matigas kong sabi at aalisin na sana ang mga kamay niya sa pisnge ko ngunit mabilis niya akong ninakawan ng halik. Nanlaki ang mga mata ko at mabilis ko siyang naitulak.

Shit! What is he doing? We’re in a public place!

“What’s wrong with you?!” Naiinis kong singhal. He composed himself and was about to say something again when someone suddenly spoke.

“Wow, your lips are really popular with the guys, Sulli.” Pareho kaming lumingon sa nagsalita. It was Sid looking at us with amusement.

Anong kamalasan ba ang meron sa araw na ito at nasa harap ko silang dalawa ngayon?

“Who the hell again? Tsk. I won’t say anything anymore, baby. That kiss was my goodbye. Soon you will know what I’m talking about.” Muling sabi ni Seba habang patingin-tingin kay Sid na lumapit saamin.

“Why can’t you just fucking tell it to me straight?” Pigil ko kay Seba nang akmang a-alis na siya.

“Because he’s scared of your brother, you don’t know your brother much, do you? Sulli?” I glared at Sid when he’s the one who answered me. At mas kilala niya ang kapatid ko? This two is making me laugh.

“And who the hell are you? What do you know about Sevan?” Taas-kilay ni Seba kay Sid. Nagpalipat-lipat lamang sakanila ang tingin ko. What’s wrong with my brother? Why do they keep talking about him like I’m the only one who doesn’t know about my own little brother? What are they on?

“Of course I know, that little brat almost cracked my skull just because I teased his brother.” Sid sneered and his eyes suddenly got filled with amusement when he looked behind my back. Lilingon na sana ako nang may mabigat na kamay ang umakbay saakin. Agad ko siyang nakilala sa amoy niya pa lamang.

Vesper.

“Bakit may mga langaw na umaaligid nanaman sayo? May party ba ang mga langaw ngayong araw at pinag p-pyestahan ang akin?” Bigla niyang sabi habang palipat-lipat ang tingin kay Seba at Sid. Bumuka ang bibig ko sa tinuran niya at agad ko siyang siniko. Ang akin?

“What the hell are you saying?” Pinanlakihan ko siya ng mga mata. Kailan pa ako naging kanya?

“What?” He just teasingly chuckled at me at humigpit pa ang akbay niya saakin bago seryoso muling tiningnan si Seba at Sid.

“Sayo? I just saw this guy kissing Sulli tho.” Biglang sagot ni Sid at naramdaman ko agad ang paninigas ng katawan ni Vesper. Napapikit ako sa inis. This fucker.

“Can’t I? He was mine first.” Sagot naman ni Seba. I looked at Vesper and he looks so upset right now. Pahigpit nang pahigpit ang akbay niya saakin. Seriously, what the hell are they doing?

“Oh, you are Sebastian right? The actor? Sullivan’s one and only ex. Nice. Are you going back together?” Pang-a-asar pa ni Sid kay Vesper. I rolled my eyes and removed Vesper’s hands on my shoulder.

“Whatever the three of you are doing, don’t do it in front of me.” Singhal ko sakanilang tatlo at a-alis na sana sa harap nila nang manlaki ang mga mata ko dahil umilang hakbang lamang si Vesper palapit kay Seba at hinila ito sa kwelyo.

“Captain!” Agad kong saway dahil agad na may mga lumingon na dumadaan hindi kalayuan sa quadrangle kung nasaan kami ngayon.

“Damn you, do you wanna fight?” Hamon agad ni Seba at mabilis rin na kinwelyuhan si Vesper. Lumapit ako sakanila at pareho ko silang pinaglalayo sa bawat isa ngunit ang lalakas ng mga loko! Lumingon ako kay Sid para sana humingi ng tulong ngunit nakita ko siyang sobrang laki ng ngisi sa nangyayari ngayon. He’s really fucking mental!

“The next time you put your mouth on him, you won’t see another day again.” Vesper said with his low voice while looking at Seba with no emotions. Pareho kaming natigilang dalawa dahil halatang seryoso siya sa sinasabi niya. Ngayon ko lang rin siya nakitang ganito makipag away, madalas kasi ay umaapaw ang lahat ng emosyon niya sa tuwing pikon siya. But he looks so fucking scary and different right now. Talagang galit siya. Muli kong naalala ang kwento saakin ni Elias kaya agad na kumabog ang dibdib ko.

“Vesper, please. Let go of him, let’s go. Please. Captain..” Hinawakan ko siya sa braso at malumanay na nakiusap. Napakurap naman siya at tumingin saakin bago agad na binitawan si Seba at hinila ako paalis roon.

“Think about what I told you, Sul.” Pahabol pa ni Seba bago kami makaalis. Nakita ko rin si Sid na nakangiti pa rin saamin nang nang-a-asar at kumaway pa saakin. Iniwas ko na ang tingin ko sakanila at nagpahila na lamang ako kay Vesper na nagmamadaling naglakad palabas ng campus.

“Where are you taking me?” I asked but he didn’t answer. Dinala niya ako sa parking lot at pinagbuksan ng pinto. He gently pushed me inside the backseat before he also got inside. Mabilis ang lahat ng pangyayari at agad niyang nahuli ang mga labi ko gamit ang mainit niyang bibig.

“Hmp!” I groaned when he kissed me furiously. Ramdam ko ang gigil niya nang angatin niya ako sa pagkakaupo sa backseat para sakaniya ako maupo. I scratched his neck and pushed his face when he started sucking my tongue.

“Hey! Can you stop!” Singhal ko sakaniya ngunit agad akong natigilan nang makita ko ang itsura niya. “Vesper..”

His eyes are red and teary while looking at me na parang nagtatampo siya. Napalunok ako at hindi alam ang gagawin at mararamdaman nang makita ko ang lungkot na may kasamang inis sa mga mata niyang naluluha na. Muling kumalabog ang dibdib ko katulad nang naramdaman ko kanina sa loob ng gymnasium. Fuck, what is he doing to me?

“Why did you kiss him? Are you really going back together?” Mahina niyang tanong at muntik pa siyang pumiyok.

“Are you about to fucking cry just because of that? Vesper what the hell.” Natatawa kong ani ngunit inis niyang iniwas ang tingin saakin. Humigpit ang mga hawak niya sa balakang ko at nakita ko pang napanguso siya. I held in my laugh and bit my lip. Is he fucking jealous? Ang laki niyang tao para magselos nang ganito.

“Are you jealous?” Lakas loob kong tanong. Nilingon niya ako at tinalasan ng mga mata.

“You fucking kissed another guy, of course I would fucking hate it. You are mine now, Sulli. Not his anymore.” Madiin niyang sabi.

“When did I become yours?” Taas-kilay ko sakaniya. He keeps saying that kanina pa. He’s fucking owning me and I should be mad about it but I don’t know why I’m not.

“I already fucked your brains out, Sullivan.” I scoffed at what he said while still looking at me with his teary eyes.

“I told you that’s gonna be a one time thing. You don’t attract me anymore.” Pagmamatigas ko. Sa wakas ay napangisi naman siya at pinunasan ang mga mata niya bago nagsalita.

“Fucking liar. You are hard right now.” Napatili ako nang bigla niyang hawakan ang ari ko. Nasabunutan ko agad siya.

“You jerk, let go of it!” Saway ko ngunit mas lalo lamang lumaki ang ngisi niya.

“Uhh– Vesper..” Napapikit ako nang hawakan niya ako sa likod upang mapalapit sa katawan niya at ang mga labi niya ngayon ay nasa leeg at panga ko na. He’s kissing my neck and jaw. Hinila niya ang tali sa mahaba kong buhok at inayos iyon upang mahalikan niya pa rin ang leeg kong gutom na gutom niyang tinitingnan ngayon.

“God, you’re beautiful. I want to fuck you again, Sul. I want to be inside you again.” Tuluyan akong nanghina sa mga hawak at halik niya nang ibulong niya iyon saakin habang hinahalikan pa rin ang leeg ko. Napayakap ako sa batok niya at walang nagawa kundi ang damahin ang kaniyang ginagawa saakin. He’s a freaking tease. I don’t know why but every time I’m with him, all my strength to reason out gets completely taken away. He’s sucking all the common sense and resistance in me.

“Do you also want it?” Tanong niya nang malapit na sa bibig ko ang mga labi niya. I opened my eyes and our eyes met. I know I’m mirroring the hunger in his eyes right now but I still shook my head at his question. He chuckled and cupped my face before claiming my lips.

Malalim ang naging halikan naming dalawa. We were both groaning and sucking each other’s tongue. Ang sarap niyang halikan. His mouth tastes so fucking good. He smell so manly, his body against mine feel so fucking huge and hot. I’m burning inside while getting drowned by his kisses.

“Captain, oh..” Kinagat niya ang leeg ko nang maghiwalay ang mga labi namin. Nakagat ko ang labi ko dahil kahit may kirot ay dumaloy ang kakaibang sensasyon sa katawan ko pababa sa naninigas kong ari na hawak-hawak niya lamang kanina. Ngayon ay hawak ng malalaking mga kamay niya ang maliit kong mukha habang ang bibig niya ay pinagsasawaan ang mga labi at katawan ko. Muli kong naalala kung gaano kasarap ang ipinaramdam niya saakin noong nasa kwarto niya ako.

I couldn’t help it anymore and I started grinding on his crotch. Ramdam na ramdam ko ang katigasan at laki niyon. He’s freaking massive so he can’t really hide his hardness from anyone.

“Shit, Sulli. Keep doing that.” We started kissing again while I work my ass on his crotch. Pareho kaming napapaungot at lumalalim ang mga hangos habang ginagawa iyon. My grinding keeps getting rougher and faster until Vesper bit my lip.

“Ow! Ves!” Saway ko dahil dumugo ata ang labi ko. Nakita ko namang napamulat siya at naliliyo pa ring napatingin sa labi ko.

“Sorry, fuck. You just feel so good, I want to fuck you right now, can I?” Humahangos niyang ani habang hindi nagbabago ang mga tingin niya saakin. Gutom na gutom. He looks so fucking hungry while looking at me. He looks like he’s going to devour me whole and my body actually shivered. Matagal ko siyang tinitigan bago ako natauhan at nagmamadaling umalis sa ibabaw niya. Daig ko pa si Flash nang damputin ko ang sports bag na naiwan ko sa kotse niya nang nakaraan at dali-daling binuksan ang kotse para makatakas sakaniya.

“Hey! What the hell? Come back here!” Sigaw pa ni Vesper nang tumatakbo na ako palayo sa parking lot. Dahil siguro hindi niya inakala ang gagawin ko kaya hindi niya agad ako napigilan. Pumasok akong muli sa campus para hindi niya ako mahabol gamit ang kotse niya. Pumunta ako sa mataong parte ng school at nakita ko ang Haraya’s Cafe kaya lakad-takbo akong pumasok roon hanggang sa may humila sa braso ko.

“Hey, why are you running?” Gulat akong napatingin kay Elias nang makitang siya ang humila saakin. Shit! Akala ko nahabol pa ako ng kumag na ’yon! Muntik ko nanamang isuko ang bataan! Hindi ko talaga mapagkakatiwalaan ang sarili ko kapag kaharap ko na siya.

“May humahabol sayo, Sul?” Tanong pa ni Theo na may hawak na frappe at nagtatakang nakatingin saakin. Agad naman akong umiling.

“Ha? Wala, g-gusto ko lang talaga mag kape. Akala ko mahaba ang pila kaya nagmamadali ako.” Pagsisinungaling ko. Napatango naman silang dalawa at nag offer pa si Theo na siya na ang mag o-order saakin. Inakay naman ako ni Elias paupo sa isa sa mga table sa loob ng cafe. Medyo puno ang cafe dahil siguro may mga taga ibang Universities pero marami naman ang table nila.

“Nawala kayo ni Vesper pagkatapos ng laro. Coach said we need to gather at the gym lockers later, mag-u-usap ata about sa laro bukas.” Pagbukas ng usapan ni Elias. Tiningnan ko naman siya.

“H-Hindi ko kasama si Vesper, hinanap ko lang ang sports bag ko. Bakit raw kailangan mag-usap ang team mamaya?” Iniba ko ang usapan. Sumipsip naman siya sa ice coffee niya bago sumagot.

“Because we are going to face Silang tommorow. Alam mo naman ang history ni Vesper sa Silang team, baka kung ano nanaman ang gawin ng Captain natin katulad nang ginawa niya kay Broza.” Kumunot ang noo ko sa huli niyang sinabi.

“Anong ginawa niya kay Broza?” Taka ko. Tumingin naman siya saakin at parang nabigla pa na hindi ko alam. Kumalabog ang dibdib ko dahil naalala ko ang sinabi niya saakin noong nasa bahay nila ako. He’s going to get back at him whether I like it or not.

“Hindi mo alam, Sul? Hindi na ulit makakalaro si Raphael Broza dahil kay Vesper.” Biglang sumulpot si Theo at mahina ang boses na sinabi iyon saakin. Mas lalo akong kinabahan. Anong ginawa ni Vesper?

“Bakit nga? Anong ginawa niya?” Naiinip kong tanong. Si Elias naman ang sumagot.

“Broza was sent to a hospital after the day he bit you, nilumpo ang tuhod niya. He can’t play anymore. In fact, he fell in a coma because of the trauma he experienced.” Nanlamig ang buong katawan ko sa tinuran niya. What the hell!

“And how did the two of you know that Vesper did it?” I’m being in denial. I refuse to believe that he’s merciless like that. The man I slept with, the man that makes my heart skip a beat, I can’t think of him like that. Ngunit naalala ko na umalis nga siya kinaumagahan pagkatapos may mangyari saamin. And he also came back with a blood stain on his collar. Napalunok ako.

“Who else can do that and get away with it so easily? Vesper Magnus.” Theo said and we fell silent when my ice coffee came. Kinuha ko iyon at natulala ako sa kape ko.

He is really dangerous. But why do I feel more drawn to him? My brain says to stay away from someone like him, but my heart is stubborn and chose to like someone complicated again.

I just knew that all of the cruel things he did, will find its way to bite all of us back in the near future.

SR

Rivalry 28

Sulli’s

Patingin-tingin ako sa mga booth stalls na nagkalat sa campus habang pinapalipas ang oras at tinataguan si Vesper. Hindi pa kasi ako makauwi dahil magtitipon pa kami mamaya ng mga teamates ko. Gusto ko rin naman makilahok sa pagsasaya nila sa campus habang NQUL. There’s a lot of people and they all look so happy and enjoying the event. Inaaya ako kanina ni Elias at Theo na sumama sakanila after namin mag coffee pero tumanggi ako dahil gusto kong mapag-isa muna habang naglilibot.

Hindi ako mapanatag sa ginawa ni Vesper kay Broza. I feel like it’s my fault kahit alam kong wala naman akong kinalaman doon. Napabuntong-hininga ako at may nakitang stall na may mga tindang keychains. May nahagilap kasi ako roon kaya agad akong lumapit at tiningnan. Natawa ako at nabigla nang makita iyon sa malapitan.

“Is this me?” I asked the seller na probably a student din here in Haraya. Napatingin ito saakin at lumiwanag ang mukha niya nang makilala ako.

“OMG! Sulli! Yes po, ikaw yan!” Malakas at excited ang boses niyang sabi. Napapangiti ngunit nagtataka naman ako kung bakit nila ako ginawang keychain. They made me a mini porcelain doll and made it a keychain. Nakalugay ang buhok ko, nakasuot ng jersey namin at nakakindat pa ang isang mata. It really resembles me. Wow, they are so talented.

Tumingin pa ako sa iba nilang mga keychains, lahat pala ng player ng Haraya ay ginawan nila ng keychains. Malakas pa akong natawa nang makita ko ang isang porcelain doll na may hawak na bola at dirty blonde ang buhok. Kinuha ko iyon at malaki ang ngiting pinagmasdan. It’s Vesper, galit ang expression niya at may hawak siyang bola na parang ayaw ibigay kahit kanino. Napaka cute n’on lalo na’t kuhang-kuha nila ang kulay ng buhok niya pati na kung paano magsalubong ang mga kilay niya kapag galit.

“Every year po kami gumagawa ng ganyan sa club namin at binebenta tuwing NQUL. Sobrang benta nga po kaya tig i-isa na lang ang natira. Nagustohan niyo po ba?” Excited na tanong ng babaeng nagbabantay sa stall. Tumango-tango naman ako at ibinigay sakaniya ang dalawang hawak kong porcelain doll.

“I’ll buy this two.” Ngiti ko sakaniya at tiningnan niya naman ang hawak ko. She looked at me teasingly when she saw who I wanted to buy. Napalunok naman ako at nagsalita muli.

“Uh, no. I’ll buy all of my teammates na pala. Please wrap it for me.” Bawi ko at nakita ko pa siyang mahinang natawa bago tumango saakin at binalot ang mga bibilhin ko. Napangiwi ako. Shit. Am I too obvious? What am I doing!

“Buti na lang po may natira pa na keychain ni Captain Vesper, palagi po kasing sold out ang kanya ’e. Ang dami niyang fans!” Pakikipag-usap pa niya saakin habang binabalot ang mga porcelain dolls ng buong team ko. Napapangiwing ngumiti ako sa sinabi niya at napatango-tango.

No wonder, gwapo at madating ang loko kahit nuknukan ng yabang. Sobrang galing pa mag basketball.

Napangiti ako nang i-abot niya saakin ang paper bag. Kinapa ko naman ang bulsa ko at napamura nang maalalang naka jersey short lamang ako at nasa locker ang wallet ko.

“Shit. Sorry, pwede bang balikan ko na lang? I forgot my wallet.” Ibinigay ko muna sakaniya ang paper bag ngunit may biglang nagsalita sa likod ko.

“I’ll pay. Give it to him.” Boses niya pa lang ay nakilala ko na ang hambog. It’s freaking Sid again! Paano niya ba ako laging nahahanap?

“Ay wag na po! Libre na pag kayo!” Ngiti saakin ng tindera. Umiling-iling naman ako dahil sinabi niya kaninag club nila ang gumagawa nito. I don’t have my phone on me right now too so I can’t pay online.

“No, no..” Napalunok ako at inis na tiningnan si Sid na kumukuha na ng pera sa pitaka niya. Kainis. Ayaw ko sana humiram sakaniya pero ayaw ko rin na libre lang saakin ibibigay ’tong mga binili ko. Nilunok ko ang pride ko at kinuha ang inaabot na pera ni Sid.

“I’ll pay you later.” I sneered and gave the money to the lady. Napasulyap naman ito kay Sid at parang gusto pang tumanggi pero kinuha niya na lamang ang pera. Is she afraid of Sid?

“Keep the change. Thank you for this.” Ngiti ko muli sakaniya at nagmamadaling inakay si Sid palayo roon. He’s making the sweet lady uncomfortable.

“Send me your bank account, I’ll pay you double.” Agad kong sabi sakaniya nang makalayo kami roon. Hindi naman mawala ang ngisi sa mga labi ng loko.

“Give me your number, I’ll send it to you.” Sabi niya at natigilan naman ako. Lintek talaga oh. Napabuntong-hininga akong muli bago hinablot ang selpon niya at inalagay roon ang number ni Owen. Ibinigay ko sakaniya ang selpon niya pagkatapos at tiningnan niya naman iyon bago natawa.

“Hey, Owen was my friend before, I still have his number saved on my phone.” Mayabang niya ulit na sabi at ibinalik saakin ang selpon niya. I glared at him again at pahablot kong kinuha ang selpon niya para ilagay na roon ang totoo kong number. Malas talaga.

“Ayan!” Inis kong singhal. Kinuha niya naman iyon at nagsalita muli.

“Why do you hate me so much anyway? Is it because we are both on the opposing team?” Hindi ko siya makapaniwalang tiningnan sa sinabi niya. Is he serious?

“Nakakalimutan mo na bang ninakawan mo ako ng halik the second time we met? You also bullied me with your asshole teammates and accused me of tricking you just because I didn’t tell you I was in Haraya’s team.” Inis kong sabi sakaniya at napangiwi naman siya bago natatawang napailing.

“Oh, yeah. I forgot about all of that. But you did play with me that’s why I teased you with my teammates.” Paliwanag niya at humarap naman ako sakaniya habang nakataas ang kilay.

“First of all, I really didn’t know who you are that first time we met. Second, I don’t care about your history with Vesper, the two of you can fight for centuries for all I care. Just don’t fucking get me involve because like what I have said, I don’t fucking care. And lastly, you are evil that’s why I hate your fucking guts.” I got it all out at parang nabigla naman siya sa mga sinabi ko. Ang akala ko ay magagalit siya ngunit natawa nanaman siya saakin.

“Okay, okay. I’m sorry if I accused you of tricking me. Also I’m not the one getting you involved, it’s your captain. And what do you mean I’m evil?” Mas lalo akong nainis sa sagot niya saakin.

“Leave Vesper fucking alone and he will do the same. And you don’t wanna know why I called you evil.” Pagtataray ko pa at napatitig naman siya saakin nang ilang segundo bago niya pinisil ang pisnge ko.

“Aray! Let go!” Singhal ko at tinawanan lang ako ng loko.

“You got brainwashed, Sulli. You might think you know Vesper a lot, but you will always be wrong. What you know about him is not even half of what he truly is. You can call me evil all you want, but I will never be half of how monstrous he is.” Natigilan ako nang seryoso niya iyong sabihin habang nakatingin sa mga mata ko at may maliit na ngiti sa mga labi niya. I couldn’t say anything and I processed all of what he just said. Nang makita niyang wala na akong balak sumagot ay tinapik niya ako sa balikat bago nagpaalam.

“I gotta go, your captain is here. But Sulli,” Tumingin pa siya saakin bago tuluyang lumakad. “I’ll never say sorry for stealing a kiss from you.” He smugly said before walking away. Kasabay nang paglayo niya ay siyang paglukob ng amoy ni Vesper sa ilong ko.

“You ran away to meet with that bastard?” Vesper asked, he sounds upset but I’m more confused right now. With everything that they said about my brother, my feelings for Vesper and all of the things they keep saying about him. Lumingon ako sakaniya at nagtataka siya saaking nakatitig.

“Vesper, I have a question.” Inipon ko ang lakas ng loob ko bago pinagpatuloy ang sasabihin.

“How evil are you for Sid to say that he’s not even half of what a monster you are?” Seryoso kong tanong at natigilan naman siya roon. Halos minuto kaming natahimik bago siya nagsalita sa seryosong boses.

“Do you really wanna know?” Balik tanong niya at ilang ulit ko rin naitanong iyon sa sarili ko mula pa kanina.

“I don’t know, but I feel like people want me to get involved. Do I have to know, captain?” Napakurap-kurap ako habang tinatanong iyon sakaniya. He sighed and neared me. Hinaplos niya ang braso ko at hinawakan ang mukha ko gamit ang isa niyang kamay. He looked at me like he’s scared and he even swallowed before speaking.

“I’m not the kindest nor the purest man you will ever met, but I promise to protect you, Sul. I don’t know and I don’t care how evil I am in everyone’s eyes, but all I do is protect everyone I care about. That’s all I can tell you for now.” He said with sincerity while staring at my eyes. Napakurap akong muli at ako naman ang napalunok sa mga sinabi niya.

“I hope I’m not falling for a guy I will regret again, Vesper.” Tipid akong ngumiti sakaniya bago ko siya tinalikuran roon at naglakad palayo. I thought he wouldn’t chase me but he did. He pulled me into a tight embrace and I wanted to punch myself for immediately giving in. I melted into his warm embrace. He kissed me on my head and I couldn’t help but closed my eyes.

Am I searching for someone’s comfort or just his comfort? I really can’t tell anymore.

“I don’t know what you heard or what he told you, but can I ask you to just trust me, Sul?” He whispered. Kahit naman hindi niya iyon sabihin, I think I already trust him more than anyone.

——

“Are you okay?” I looked at Vesper and nodded my head. Nasa Haraya’s cafe na kami ngayon at binilhan niya ako ng milkshake. He’s looking at me like he’s looking for something so I asked.

“What?” Napakurap naman siya bago sumagot.

“You just didn’t look okay to me earlier. Did Sid say something? I mean, I know he did, but why were you so affected?” Curious niyang tanong. Napangiwi naman ako. It’s because I was really confused about him, everyone says different things about him. I’m affected because I’m starting to like him and I can’t control it anymore.

“Oh, wait. I get it now.” Hindi pa man ako nakakasagot ay nagsalita na siyang muli. Pinagtaasan ko siya ng kilay bago sumipsip sa milkshake na binili niya habang nakatingin pa rin sa mukha niya. Nakangisi naman na siya saakin ngayon kaya mas lalong tumaas ang kilay ko.

“You are starting to fall for me, and you don’t know me that much personally that’s why it frustrates you with everything that you are hearing about me.” He smugly said. Naiubo ko naman ang milkshake na iniinom ko. He immediately gave me water.

“Ang kapal talaga ng mukha mo.” Pinanlakihan ko siya ng mga mata. He started laughing at me at inis lamang akong tumingin sakaniya. I mean, he’s not wrong, he’s freaking right and that’s what annoys me right now!

“You said it yourself, you didn’t want to fall in love with someone you will regret. Sulli, you are falling for me.” This time, he didn’t said it with a smug, but a real genuine smile and his eyes were full of happiness. Napalunok ako at hindi nakaimik sa sinabi niya. Napatitig lamang ako kung gaano siya kagawapong tingnan ngayon. He suddenly held my hand on top of the table and kissed it. Hindi na ako lumingon pa sa mga kasama namin sa cafe dahil alam kong kanina pa sila pasulyap-sulyap saaming dalawa. Vesper alone can attract all the attention, and now he’s even doing this! Is he not afraid of anything? I feel so embarrassed right now.

“Don’t worry, I want you to know me well also. We’ll get to that. And Sul, I’ll make sure you will never regret falling for me.” There he goes again with his sincere smile! Damn it! My heart is going crazy right now. Malalaki lamang ang mga mata kong nakatingin sa mga ngiti niya habang sobrang lakas ng tibok ng puso ko.

Am I really falling for this bully mysterious guy that can be so freaking weird and annoying all the time? Seriously, damn me.

Napairap ako at napangiti na rin nang mas lalong lumaki ang mga ngiti niya at humigpit ang hawak sa kamay ko. This jerk. He looks like a kid that got the candy he wanted so much. Does he want me that much? Natigil lamang kami nang may marinig sa papalabas na grupo ng magkakaibigan.

“So it’s true? Ang landi ha.” Lumipad ang tingin ko sa nagsabi at pasulyap-sulyap ito saamin.

“Hindi lang dalawa, apat talaga!” Biro pa nang isa at nagtawanan sila. What the hell are they talking about and why are they looking at me?

“Imagine flirting with Sid and Vesper? And the actor Sebastian? May Ace pa, iba talaga.” Mas lalo kong nakumpirma na ako nga ang pinag-u-usapan nila dahil sa narinig. What the hell? All those guys got involved with me today so I know it’s me.

“What’s wrong? You all have a problem?” Nagulat ako nang tumayo si Vesper at hinarang ang grupo na pinag-u-usapan kami. Para namang tinakasan ng mga dugo ang mga loko.

“W-Wala po–” Pare-pareho kaming nagulat nang hablutin ni Vesper ang hawak nilang selpon na tinitingnan nila kanina habang pasulyap-sulyap saamin. Vesper looked at it and his brow knitted.

“Who the fuck did this again?” Vesper shot a glare at the group and throw the phone on the floor. Mabilis namang kinuha iyon ng lalaking kaharap ni Vesper at nagmamadali silang lumabas ng cafe. Those who were inside the cafe couldn’t look at us again, halatang takot na sa reaksyon ngayon ni Vesper. Lumapit naman ako sakaniya at nagtanong.

“What is it now?” I asked because he looks so upset. Ano nanaman ba ang nangyari?

“Look at this. Someone is really trying to piss me off.” Sagot niya kaya kinuha ko agad ang ibinibigay niya saaking selpon. Nakabukas ang conversation sa group chat ng team namin at may sinend si Elias na attachment. Binuksan ko iyon at post iyon na may mga pictures ko kasama si Sid, Ace, Sebastian at Vesper. I bit my lip and looked at it clearly.

The picture of me and Ace was the incident earlier at the court where I landed on his lap. Pati iyong pagkurot sa pisnge ko ni Sid kanina ay nakuhaan nila. There’s a picture of me and Vesper too while he’s embracing me earlier. Fuck it, ang pinaka malala ata ay ang picture namin ni Sebastian nang nakawan niya ako ng halik kanina. I read the caption and felt so humiliated.

The newest ace player of Haraya all the way from Canada, whoring his way with these fine men. Anong dasal mo baks?

It was a sarcastic sentence with laughing emojis. Iyon lamang ang caption at sobrang daming naging negative comments dahil pinost iyon sa sikat na page na konektado sa NQUL. Although the page isn’t official, the post got a lot of shares and likes. It’s basically blowing up. Everyone is mocking me in the comments and my heart is about to explode.

I have never been this humiliated my entire life!

“Come here. I’ll make sure to clean this up. You’ll be okay.” Nahalata ata ni Vesper ang nararamdaman ko ngayon at agad niya akong inakay palabas ng cafe na iyon. I didn’t say anything anymore because my head is already full of what can happen because of that post.

The team will get affected again. And what if my father saw my picture with Sebastian?

We are so freaking dead.

SR

Rivalry 29

Sid’s

“HAHAHAHAHAH! Who the hell posted this? You?” Quentin laughed while I was looking at the viral post of Sulli and us. I glared at Quentin and he closed his mouth while still trying not to laugh.

“Me? Do you think I’ll go all out just to take pictures of that gay guy? No way.” Pairap naman na sagot ni Marga. Nakatingin siya saakin nang nagtatanong. I’m sure she wants to ask why I am with Sulli earlier but I didn’t pay her no mind.

“Who the hell is keeping tabs on Sulli?” Tanong ko dahil matagal na akong nagtataka kung sino rin ang nag post noon sa pictures namin sa locker.

“Well, it’s definitely not us. Maybe one of Vesper’s enemy?” Jace answered.

“Possibly, it’s so obvious that Vesper is fond of him. Kaya pinupuntirya si Sulli ngayon ng mga kaaway niya.” Si Teddy habang humihipak sa hawak niyang yosi. They all agreed and only Marga said something.

“Or maybe that gay guy also has enemies. Bakit ba kuya ko lagi ang sinisisi niyo?” Taas-kilay niya ngunit inilingan lamang siya nila Teddy. I didn’t say anything and had a deep thought.

I wanna know who the hell is posting this kind of shits.

“Find out who the hell is posting and taking pictures of him, Dex.” Utos ko kay Dex dahil siya ang magaling roon.

“Why?” Marga asked. I looked at her.

“Because I’m always on the picture with him.” Tanging sagot ko.

“Well it’s because you are always with him. Do you actually like him or are you just pissing my brother off?” Marga suddenly became so upset. Napabuntong-hininga ako at hinawakan ang kamay niya.

“Hey, calm down. I’m just yours, alright?” Pagpapakalma ko sakaniya. She just looked away and stood up to walk away. Nang makaalis siya ay natawa silang apat.

“Does she really think you are still in love with her?” Teddy scoffed. I looked at him so he can shut up. Tumayo ako at tinext ang number na ibinigay saakin ni Sulli kanina. I asked him if he’s alright.

I need to make him get confused about Vesper. I’ll sneak my way into his heart.

——

Vesper’s

“This really needs to end. Kararating lang ni Sulli sa Pilipinas at pinagp-pyestahan agad siya ng mga peste online. I hate this shit.” Owen’s temper was over the roof. Kaharap namin siya ngayon kasama ang buong team. The coach isn’t here yet but I know he also got the news. Kahit ako ay nagagalit nang sobra. Ang dami-daming nangyari ngayong araw. I have so much to be upset about but all I can think right now is Sulli. He looks so embarrassed and humiliated right now. I know he had never experienced this kind of humiliation before. I’m worried.

“And when did that ex of yours got here? Bakit kayo naghahalikan in public?” Owen suddenly lashed at Sulli who looked at him with disbelief. Isa pa ito sa pinakaiinis ko kanina pa. The kiss with Sebastian, that accident inside the court with Ace and that motherfucker Sid getting all over him. Sulli attracts so much attention with other guys and I hate it a lot. Kahit gusto kong magwala sa inis at galit ay alam kong pagsasabihan niya lamang akong unresonable. He’s finally starting to fall for me, I don’t want him to dislike me again just because of my temper.

“He kissed me, he stole a kiss from me. Hindi kami naghalikan, okay?” Depensa ni Sulli at mas lalo akong nainis sa ex niya na iyon. Kissing what’s not his anymore, my blood is really boiling right now. I calmed myself down and focus on the problem.

“Fuck that bastard. And why is Sid with you again?” Owen’s temper is really all over the place. Inis man ako dahil nakita ko silang magkasama kanina, I know Sid is following him and trying to get his attention. I don’t want to blame Sulli anymore, I have pointed fingers at him enough before. I heard Sulli scoffed and he’s about to lashed out to him also.

“Stop it. It’s not Sulli’s fault.” Lumapit ako kay Sulli at hinawakan ang likod niya dahil nagkakainitan sila ngayon ni Owen. Owen shot a glare at me and walk towards us.

“Of course it’s not his fault, it’s yours!” I looked away when his anger turned to me. “I told you not to touch my cousin! You really didn’t listen! You said you wouldn’t but you’re still all over him!” Lumakas ang boses niya at narinig kong natawa ang ilan sa mga teammates namin. Shit. Why is he announcing to everyone that I touched Sulli? Alam ko namang kahit hindi kami umamin sakaniya ay nahalata niya na ngayon pa lamang.

“Loko ka, captain. Kaya pala pinupuntirya si Sulli ng mga kumag, they know you like him.” I glared at Julian when he said that. Natatawang umalis naman ang mga loko nang tingnan ko sila ng masama. Apat lamang kaming natira sa loob ng gym lockers. Me, Sulli, Owen and Elias who kept glancing at my hands who’s holding Sulli. Mas lalo kong hinigpitan ang hawak sakaniya.

“What does he mean by that?” Sulli asked and glance at me. Naunahan naman ako ni Owen magsalita.

“He means this jerk has a lot of crazy admirers, and they will target someone he’s fond of just to get his attention.” Singhal ni Owen.

“And right now that someone is you, Sul.” Elias said and I couldn’t stay silent anymore.

“The two of you are overreacting, hindi pa nga natin alam kung sino ang may gawa nito. I will find who the hell did this no matter what. I can protect Sullivan, the two of you know that.” Mahinahon kong sabi at mas lalong nagalit ang tingin saakin ni Owen.

“I know too well how you protect someone you love. I loathe it.” He spat and walked away. Napabuntong-hininga ako sa sinabi niya. He’s really upset. I know he’s mad that I didn’t value what we talked about, tinalo ko siya. I touched Sulli. But can he blame me? His cousin is so stubbornly tempting. Nakagat ko ang labi ko at napasulyap kay Sulli na nakakunot ang noo sa nilabasang pinto ni Owen.

“He’s just upset that the two of you really have a relationship.” Elias suddenly said. Sulli scoffed.

“We don’t–” I cut Sulli off.

“He will get over it. We like each other.” Matabang kong ani kay Elias na tumaas ang kilay. Sulli just looked at me like I’m out of my mind before he look at Elias again. Elias didn’t say anything anymore but I saw how he shot a knowing look to Sulli who looked away immediately. Kumunot ang noo ko roon at nagsalita nang lumabas na rin sa gym lockers si Elias.

“What was that?” I asked. Sulli looked at me with a questioning look.

“What?”

“The look he gave you. Don’t lie to me.” Seryoso kong sabi at napatitig naman siya sa mukha ko bago napabuntong-hininga at nagsalita.

“It’s nothing. I just told him before I wouldn’t get involved with you. But here we are now.” Napaiwas siya nang tingin at parang problemado. I stared at his pretty face before holding it with my hand. I made him look at me and offered him a small smile.

“I want to be selfish and keep you, Sul. I can protect you from anyone, but you should know it won’t be easy being with someone like me. Please don’t change your mind about me, hm?” I sincerely said. I know too well why Owen was so worried. But I will never let Sulli suffer from my enemies, as long as he chose to stay and trust me.

“Change my mind about you? Captain, we are not yet together.” He said in a playful manner. Agad na umasim ang mukha ko.

“Sulli..” Banggit ko sa pangalan niya na may pakikiusap. He stared at me and chuckled. He held my chin and neared his face towards mine. I couldn’t breathe when our lips are about to collide.

“I should be the one telling you that.” He whispered. Napapikit ako nang idampi niya ang mga labi niya saakin. It was firm yet soft, quick but the feeling on my lips stayed. “Don’t change your mind about me, Captain. I’m really hard to tame.” He whispered sultry and smiled at me before walking out the door.

Napalunok ako at napatingin sa gitna ng mga binti ko. Fuck. That turned me on so much. Damn it. Why am acting like a rabit in heat whenever he does the simplest things?

Sulli, I will make sure you’re gonna be mine.

---

Sulli’s

“An interview? Why me?!” Gulat kong tanong sa coach nang lumapit siya saakin habang nagbibihis kami ng jersey ng buong team. We are finally gonna face Silang today and we are at an arena and a big crowd is expected, but why the hell am I getting interviewed? Nakuha ko naman agad ang atensyon ng buong team lalo na si Vesper na nasa tabi ko lamang at nagsusuot ng sapatos.

“They want you because you’re new.. and of course, your issue buzzing online.” Parang nawawalan ng pag-asang ani ng Coach. I guess we can’t say no if he’s acting like this.

“This is a good idea. Maybe clear the misunderstanding before we start the game.” Sabat ni Owen at tiningnan ako nang seryoso. Inis naman akong natawa nang maikli. Yeah right, back in Canada, I had a lot of sideline interview and the reporters really like to grill me.  Napapabuntong-hininga ako at napatango na lamang sa gusto nilang mangyari.

“Fine. But you know my mouth, Owe.” I side eye him before I walked out to go outside the court.

“Sul, don’t worry about anything and just answer.” I looked back when Vesper said that. I shrugged and continue walking. Narinig ko namang pinalabas na rin sila ng Coach para mag stretching sa gitna ng court. Pagkalabas ko pa lamang ay nakita ko na ang grupo nila Sid ngunit hindi ko sila binigyan ng pansin. There’s a lot of crowd and cameras and I froze when the cameras immediately spun towards me while I was walking on the side.

What the hell? Kitang-kita ng lahat ang mukha ko sa jumbotron screen sa gitna ng ere.

“Here’s our newest buzzing player of Haraya! Sullivan Turner!” May lumapit saaking lalaking reporter at nagulat pa ako nang marinig na rinig ng buong arena ang gamit niyang mic. Fuck! Is he gonna interview me while everyone is listening? This is really a trap! Seriously, I remember a sideline reporter in Canada doing this to one of my teammates who was caught cheating with his girlfriend. Damn, the reporter embarrassed him big time. He deserves it tho.

“H-Hello..” Tanging nasabi ko nang bigyan pa nila ako ng sariling mic. This is gonna be a long interview, fuck.

“Sulli, big matchup tonight. You’ve been listed as questionable earlier this week, how are you feeling going into the game?” I smiled at the reporter when he started off strong. Questionable? Is this about the eligibility clearance?

“Questionable? That’s rude.” Sagot ko at narinig ko agad ang ilang ingay mula sa crowd. I grinned at the reporter who was also caught off guard. I know too well how to handle situations like this. I wasn’t an ace player in Canada for nothing. “I feel great, nervous but far from injured.” Ngiti kong muli at saka lamang nakuha ng reporter na nagbibiro lamang ako kanina. Slow. Even some of the crowd laughed.

I need to be smooth and confident so he won’t overpower me. For fuck sake I don’t want another embarrassment.

“Since we’re talking nerves, social media’s been buzzing about you this week.” My smiled widened when he really wants to grill me. Damn this guy, this is why I hate sideline reporters back in Canada.

“Buzzing? That sounds annoying.” Kunwari ay interesado kong sagot. I know everyone right here in the arena is watching me and I need to pull this off. They all want to know about that fucking issue.

“Clips and photos have surfaced allegedly showing you flirting with three men in the league—” Hindi na siya nagpaligoy-ligoy pa at sinabi iyon nang may ngiti sa mga labi na pinapantayan ang akin. My eyes twitched when he paused and looked at someone at the court before speaking again. “One of them being your own team captain.” Nakagat ko ang labi ko at tumango sakaniya habang nakangiti pa rin. Fuck, the crowd is getting louder, they all want to hear my answer.

“And on top of that, fans noticed a photo of you sharing a kiss with a very famous actor outside the court yesterday.” The crowd goes wild but I stayed calm and think through. This reporter is really going at it! Tumaas ang kilay ko sakaniya at tumingin pa ako sa camera bago ko siya sinagot nang nakangiti.

“Wow. Everyone is really into my business these past few days.” Pabiro kong ani ngunit walang natigil sa ingay at hindi rin natigil ang pagtatanong niya.

“So.. care to clarify?” Nang-u-uyam ang ngiti niya saakin at agad ko namang ibinalik iyon sakaniya.

“First of all, allegedly ? Those pictures are very clear.” I heard everyone gasped and my smile widened. These fuckers think they can bully me. I tilted my head at the reporter who was also shocked with my answer. “I don’t think anyone needs glasses for that.” Dagdag ko pa at nakita ko si Owen sa likod ng reporter na pinandidilatan ako ng mga mata. Lihim akong natawa.

Natigil ang ingay at tutok na sila saakin ngayon.

“So the flirting accusations are true?” Lumiwanag muli ang mukha ng reporter. I nodded at him and even held my own chin.

“Flirting is subjective.” I shrugged. “Some people call it flirting. Some people call it… chemistry.” Ngiti ko at nakita ko pa si Owen na napapairap ngunit napangiti na rin sa sagot ko. He’s now looking at me like he’s telling me to go on. Does he really think these kind of thing can pin me down? I’ve been playing the league since high school, and being gay while playing basketball comes with lots of scandals. I’m already used to it.

“And the captain? Care to confirm or deny?” I glance towards the court and my eyes met Vesper. He winked at me and I shook my head at him. The crowd goes wild again.

“I don’t lie. If people saw something… they probably did. But like what I said, it’s just chemistry talking. We are good friends. He’s a good captain.” The arena explodes. Clearly confused by my statement. I saw Vesper chokes on water and Owen is about to faint right now. Mas lalong lumaki ang ngiti ko sa reporter na mukhang walang kahit isang inaasahan sa mga naging sagot ko sakaniya. That’s exactly the plan, to confuse and shook them back.

“And the actor? The photo appears to show him kissing you.” Napapikit ako. He is really trying to press his luck. I think this is where I need to take damage. I sighed.

“He did steal a kiss.” I smiled sweetly and looked at the camera. “Seba, that’s a bad habit.” Pabiro kong pagkausap sa camera.

“So you’re confirming a relationship with him?” Nagtataka naman akong kunwaring nabigla sa sinabi ng reporter. I laughed and shook my head.

“No. Seba is my childhood friend, we are dear to each other and we are really close. He was just teasing me, trying to embarrass me to my new team.” Paliwanag ko at parang nawalan na nang pag-asa ang reporter na makakuha ng matinong sagot saakin. The crowd doesn’t seem to buy it but as if they’re gonna get a real answer from me.

“Sulli, one last question.” I nodded at him.

“Basketball is still a very traditional sport. There’s been a lot of discussion online about you being openly linked to men.” Ah, there it is. I’ve been waiting for him to ask me about it. Reporters like him usually pressed me about my preference.

“Do you feel pressure being gay in this league, especially with the attention you’re getting?” Dagdag niya pa. Muling nakinig ang crowd at nakita kong lahat ng teammates ko ganon na rin sila Sid ay nakatingin saakin nang seryoso.

“Pressure? Sure. I get pressure to win. Pressure to play smart. Pressure to not embarrass myself on national TV.” I shot the camera a glare but still smiled at the reporter. Soft laughter breaks the tension. Some of the crowd seems to cheer for me now.

“Being gay isn’t the hardest part of this league.” I smiled sweetly again.

“So it hasn’t affected your career?” Taas-kilay saakin ng reporter. Mas lalong tumamis ang ngiti ko sakaniya.

“I mean, it doesn’t affect how I move on the court. I didn’t wake up gay yesterday. I’ve been playing like this the whole time.” The crowd suddenly starts clapping slowly then louder. Mukhang doon lamang natauhan ang reporter at mabilis na iniba ang usapan.

“Any message for fans watching tonight?” Tanong niya. I looked at the camera dead serious.

“If my personal life distracts you from the game, y’all are not watching me close enough. What can I say? I love men and their looong—” Before I can even finished the word, the camera man turned off the camera and Owen pulled me away from them. I laughed out loud along with the crowd. The buzzer rang and I was still laughing.

Did they really think they can bully Sulivan Turner? The great Vesper Magnus didn’t even succeed.

SR

A/N: I really love writing sassy bottoms!

🔛🔝

Rivalry 30

Sid’s

I cracked my neck while looking at Sulli laughing with Owen, while Vesper is looking at them lovingly. I scoffed. Why is he watching them like they’re his children? So corny. Well, the whole Haraya team is boring. But I gotta admit, what Sulli did made me like him more. What a brave smart mouth, I can see why Vesper suddenly likes a man. Sulli never backs down easily and he never let issues pin him down. Maganda na, palaban pa.

I’m genuinely starting to get so curious of him. I really wanna know him and this is unlikely of me. I thought I was only curious because Vesper took a liking to him, but I guess he’s really also interesting for me.

“What’s your plan?” Quentin asked while we are stretching. Hindi ko inalis ang mga tingin ko kay Vesper bago sumagot.

“History repeats itself.” Maliit akong ngumiti at ganon rin si Quentin. I will make sure to break Vesper again, his skill might not falter, but if he’s psychologically affected, we will fucking win.

Mabilis na nagsimula ang laro na pinakaaabangan ng marami. Haraya’s first five and mine positioned inside the court. Elias and Teddy got ready for the jump ball and my eyes immediately were on Vesper. He seems focused and I know if I don’t mess with him, they will win.

The referee whistled and Teddy immediately got the ball. Teddy is aggressive and Elias is soft, it’s likely my team is going to get it. Mabilis kaming tumakbo papunta sa ring side namin at sinubukan kong lumapit kay Vesper.

It’s not that I don’t trust my strength or my team, but when we are playing against Vesper, we are always on the edge because the bastard is so persistent. That and I really like seeing him explode and prove to everyone that he’s really just like his father .

“Still getting flashbacks about before ?” I whispered and he snap his head towards me.

“Fuck off, Sid.” He spat and run towards the other direction. I smiled and signaled my teammates to pass me the ball.

The match was intense as expected. Both of us are on the edge every time someone’s score. But my goal was clear and I used every chance I get to get close to Vesper.

“Do you ever wonder? Why he loses to me?” I smiled to Sulli when he was dribbling the ball. He didn’t look at me but said something.

“I never wonder about people I trust.” Ani niya at natawa naman ako.

“You should. Watch me prove it to you.” I whispered and he looked at me confused. Doon ako gumalaw at mabilis na inagaw sakaniya ang bola. Nakita ko kung paano siya nagulat at tumalim ang tingin saakin. I laughed and puckered my lips at him before shooting the ball. He’s so damn cute.

“Come here!” I heard Vesper called him and I immediately snickered. He’s so damn jealous. I’ve never seen him like this before, so amusing. But that’s alright, the more he’s obsessed with Sulli, the bigger the chance that he will completely break if I steal his little obsession.

I can’t wait for that to happen.

——

Sulli’s

“What the hell is wrong with you?” I snapped at Vesper who keeps faltering ever since the first quarter. He didn’t look at me and Owen immediately gave him water. He took it and drank it like there’s no tomorrow. Inis kong inagaw iyon at tiningnan siya nang masama.

“Sul.” Saway saakin ni Owen ngunit hindi ko siya pinansin. Why is he suddenly siding with Vesper?

“I better win this game, captain. I didn’t pull that stunt earlier just so I can embarrassed myself.” Ani ko at inis na ibinalik sakaniya ang tubig na iniinom niya. Coach is saying something but my eyes darted to Sid who’s already looking at me.

I know this motherfucker is saying something to Vesper. Katatapos lang ng second quarter at kanina ko pa siya napapansin na palapit-lapit kay Vesper at saakin. He keeps saying things about Vesper’s temper but I keep ignoring him. Ang gusto kong magsabi saakin ng nangyayari ay si Vesper ngunit kanina pa ito tahimik at ni hindi siya nakaka score nang maayos! He looks like he’s so out of the world and I’m starting to wonder of what the hell is Sid telling him.

Vesper is not that stupid to get affected if Sid is only saying bullshits, kung ganito ang epekto sakaniya nang kung ano mang sinasabi ng kumag na iyon ay malaking bagay iyon para sakaniya. He’s literally losing focus.

Nagsimula muli ang laro at saakin naman lumapit si Sid habang hawak ko ang bola. I deliberately bumped into him and spoke first.

“Tell me, you are saying things to Vesper so your team can win. Is that how Vesper loses to you? Cheap.” I snorted and passed the ball to Julian who immediately scored. I heard Sid chuckling so I looked at him.

“You have no idea, Sul. It’s more than that.” Sid said with so much confidence before running into the opposite direction. Sinundan ko siya ng tingin bago ko sinulyapan si Vesper na hindi mawala ang tingin sa bola ngunit kapag nakukuha niya iyon ay hindi niya naman maipasok nang maayos.

What the hell is wrong with him? What the hell is going on with the both of them?

I really hate not knowing anything.

“Oh look at that! Another missed from the captain of Haraya! What do you think is happening?” Narinig ko ang commentator at nakagat ko ang labi ko. Fuck. He’s really losing it.

“He looks like he’s not focused, is he deliberately trying to lose?” Nang maipasa saakin ang bola ay malakas ko iyong inipit sa dalawa kong palad. I looked at Sid who’s running towards me with Teddy and I gave them a boastful smile. Mabilis akong gumalaw at iniwasan silang dalawa. It wasn’t hard for me to go through and shoot the ball.

“Three points from Sullivan Turner! Man, ilang three points niya na ba iyan? The score is even with Silang because of his endless score!” Tiningnan ko si Sid na seryosong nakatingin saakin. Pinagtaasan ko siya ng kilay ngunit ngumiti lamang siya at tumakbo palapit kay Vesper. The game didn’t stop flowing while I watch Sid always getting near my captain and I can see him saying something. Ang akala ko ay hindi pa rin siya papansin ni Vesper ngunit lahat ay nagulat kasabay ng pagpito ng referee nang bigla niyang kwelyuhan si Sid na napangiti lamang at agad akong hinanap para tingnan sa mga mata. I blew a loud breath when the players and the referee tried to separate them.

Sid is really going to show me how Vesper loses to him. Humangos ako at lumapit sa team na pinapalibutan ang coach na sinisigawan si Vesper.

“Don’t forget why you are here, Hererra! For the whole Haraya team! Not for your personal problem with Llano! Are you going to do this every time we play against them?!” Sigaw ng coach ngunit nakayuko lamang si Vesper at humahangos nang mabilis. I stared at him for a long time before I spoke that made him immediately look at me.

“Get him out of here.” Pinal kong ani. Kumunot ang noo ng coach ganon rin ang ibang teammates ko.

“What did you say?” The captain asked. Hindi ko inalis ang mga tingin ko sakaniya at muling nagsalita.

“You won’t play for another quarter. Jim will play, we will win the game without you unless you calm the fuck down and come to your senses.” Tumayo siya at akma akong lalapitan ngunit nagsalita rin si Owen at pinigilan siya.

“That’s actually a good idea, Ves.” Hindi makapaniwalang tiningnan kaming dalawa ni Vesper.

“I’m the Captain! I make the call!” Singhal niya.

“Exactly, and you are not doing a good job.” The coach told him at mas lalong namula ang mga mata niya sa galit. I licked my lips and pulled him.

“Nobody comes with us.” Ani ko at nagmamadali ko siyang pinasok sa locker room namin sa ilalim ng gymnasium.

“What is wrong with you, Sulli?” Tanong niya saakin at mabilis ko naman siyang tinulak sa pader at inis na tiningnan.

“Sid is trying to fuck with you, and you are falling for his trap.” Madiin kong ani at natigilan naman siya nang ilang segundo.

“So you are going to throw your captain out of the game?” Naipikit ko ang mga mata ko sa sinabi niya at kinalma ko ang sarili ko bago siya malumanay na hinawakan sa magkabilang balikat. I looked at his eyes who’s also looking at me confused and upset.

“Look, I told you. I’m not going to lose this game. And you are trying to do the opposite. Vesper, I want you to trust me on this one. Let the team win this without you. This is only the elimination round, we will play against them next time and it will be the real finals. And I need you to be with us when that time comes.” Desidido kong pakiusap at hindi siya sumagot. We kept looking at each other and I couldn’t help it anymore, I gave him a kiss on the forehead. Napapikit siya at doon ako lumakad palabas ng locker room na iyon. I left him there and I know he won’t go out anymore. I really hope so.

Nilapitan ko ang coach at inipon ang team para sa plano ko. We strategized and when the fourth quarter started, I face Sid with a smug look.

“Your captain hid his coward ass already?” Sid asked me. I smiled at him and neared my lips to his ear.

“Why? Afraid you are gonna lose to me?” I taunt and when the referee whistled, I did nothing but taunt him into losing. He is not the only one who can do that, two can play this game very well.

I did everything to turn the tables. Ako naman ang palapit-lapit kay Sid na halatang hindi inaasahan ang mga ginagawa ko.

“You know, I actually didn’t care about your rivalry with Vesper the first time I heard it. But seeing you stoop this low just to win, I think Vesper has all the valid reasons to get mad at you.” Mahaba kong ani habang nag d-dribble si Sid ng bola sa harapan ko. He narrowed his eyes at me and I looked at him mockingly before I quickly steal the ball he’s holding. Halatang nagulat siya kaya mabilis akong tumakbo para maka score.

The crowd goes wild again and I smiled at everybody before I neared Sid again. He’s looking at me with no emotions in his eyes but his stance tells me he’s figuring me out.

“You will come running to me when you finally realize who’s Vesper, Sulli.” Ngiti niya saakin bigla. I also smiled at him.

“I don’t think so. I’m not running with anyone, not with Vesper, and definitely not with you. I am my own person, no one owns me but myself. Keep your emotional ass in check. Maybe you are also making another rival you can’t win against.” I deliberately stomped on his big ass ego and I know he’s not liking it. I know he’s trying to use me against Vesper, and Vesper might fall for it due to his past trauma. But me? I’m keeping my head above and be bigger than their unending rivalry.

I’m another case, they can’t just pull me with their old flame. I’m too good for that.

“You are really making me like you so much. I feel so fucking excited.” Sid suddenly said and that’s when Julian gave me the ball.

“I’m flattered, but I still won’t let you win.” Ngiti ko sakaniya bago muling sumeryoso sa paglalaro.

It wasn’t that easy to beat them especially that we have to sacrificed Vesper and they’re still standing strong with their first five. Magagaling sila, I’ll give them that. But like what I’ve said, I won’t lose after the stunt I pulled earlier. I know all hell will break lose if that clip of me coming out gets to my father. But I needed to do it.

After all the shit I pulled and I almost passed out trying to get on Silang’s physical strength, I finally won.

“AND HARAYA WINS! A WIN WITHOUT THEIR CAPTAIN FOR THE LAST QUARTER, SULLIVAN TURNER JUST PROVED HIS NAME TO ALL OF US! AN ACE PLAYER INDEED!” The whole stadium celebrated. The team started circling me ngunit mabilis akong tumakas sakanila at nagmamadaling pumasok sa loob ng locker room. Doon ko naabutan si Vesper na nakatayo pa rin sa kung saan ko siya iniwan kanina. He looked at me and I smiled at him.

“I won. You have to give me something.” I told him and he looks at me confused. Hindi nawala ang malaking ngiti ko sakaniya.

——

“Are you okay now?” Tanong ko kay Vesper nang makapasok kami sa kwarto niya. I told him I wanted to sleep here and he didn’t say anything and just drove me here. Nagtataka pa rin ako sa inaasta niya. I finally saw how Sid can get to his system and I’m not liking it.

“Yeah. Congratulations on winning.” Sagot niya at umupo sa couch sa loob ng kwarto niya. Agad akong sumunod sakaniya at nagulat pa siya nang halikan ko siya sa labi.

“We won. Our team won. Not just me.” Seryoso kong sabi sakaniya habang titig na titig sa mga mata niya. I’m trying to read him but he looks like he’s still out of this world.

“Y-Yeah. I’m sorry about earlier, I was useless.” Umiling ako sa sinabi niya at hinawakan ko ang kamay niya. He stared at it so I spoke.

“Can you tell me why you acted like that? What did Sid told you?” Lakas loob kong tanong. Doon siya tumingin saakin. Matagal siyang napatitig saakin bago sumagot.

“Would you believe me if I tell you that I don’t know?” Sabi niya at napakunot ang noo ko dahil base sa mga tingin niya saakin ay totoo ang sinasabi niya.

“What? You don’t know, how?” Taka ko rin. Napahangos siya at napahilamos sa mukha gamit ang mga palad niya.

“This is the first time I’m telling someone this, Sulli. And it’s because it’s you and I like you a lot.” Panimula niya at umayos naman ako ng upo sa sinabi niya.

“Every time he says something to me that’s probably so big I can’t handle it, I lose my mind. I literally do and I’m getting worried about it.” Kinabahan ako sa sinabi niya.

“Ano? Paano?” Napuno ng kaba ang dibdib ko. Don’t tell me, baliw siya? Napailing ako sa naisip at gustong kaltukan ang sarili ko. Matagal na siyang baliw unang kita pa lamang namin!

“My mind shuts down and I’m forced to forget about it. Maybe that’s why Sid is so upset with me, because he keeps saying something important to me and I just completely shut down and forget about it.” Napatitig ako sakaniya at inintindi ang sinasabi niya.

“I don’t understand.” Tanging nasabi ko. Napahangos siyang muli at nagsalita.

“I know, me too. But I think it’s a traumatic event that involves me and he keeps making me remember it to piss me off but I dissociate instead. I literally don’t know why I was so mad at him earlier, I forgot what he’s talking about. I’m serious, Sulli. I haven’t told this to anyone else but you.” He said frustratedly and I suddenly remembered something Elias told me.

“It’s as if he closed that chapter of his life, he’s acting like none of that even happened. Kaya lahat kami ay umaakto rin na walang nangyaring ganon.”

Napahawak ako sa bibig ko at malalaki ang matang napatitig kay Vesper. Don’t tell me he doesn’t remember about that incident with his past lover?!

“Holy shit, Vesper.” I blurted shocked to my core.

SR

A/N: I think SR will be a loong story. I had so much things to write about my characters here. But it will be a painful slow updates because I’m still studying lels

Rivalry 31

Sulli’s

Lumabas ako ng shower room habang pinupunasan ang basang-basa kong buhok. Nandito pa rin ako sa bahay ni Vesper at hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala sa mga sinabi niya saakin kanina.

I told him to get checked and he just said yes and got dismissive. Iniwan niya ako rito sa kwarto niya dahil kakausapin niya raw si Isaac about something. Hindi ko na siya pinigilan pa dahil halatang lito rin siya sa nangyayari sakaniya.

Who wouldn’t? I’ll probably lose my mind if that kind of thing happens to me. Curious tuloy ako kung ano nga ba talaga ang sinasabi sakaniya ni Sid. Is it really about that NQUL incident last year when I still wasn’t around? Or baka iba? My curiosity is eating me up again.

Napatitig ako sa tapis kong twalya sa balakang ko bago nakagat ang sariling labi. I wanted to have sex with him earlier after the game, but he dropped a bomb and I forgot all about it. Napahangos ako at kinuha ang sports bag ko para kumuha roon ng pamalit. I sighed when I only saw a boxer and a loose white shirt inside the bag. Hindi ko naman kasi balak talaga pumunta rito sa bahay nila. Ang akala ko nga ay lulubayan ko na siya after ng mga nalaman ko pero iba rin talaga ang takbo ng isip at tibok ng puso.

I clutched my chest and cursed at myself before wearing the boxer and shirt I had. Medyo mahaba naman ang shirt ko kaya natakpan ang nakaumbok kong ari ngunit naka expose ang legs ko. Hindi ko na iyon pinansin at umupo ako sa kama ni Vesper habang dala-dala ang selpon ko.

Hinanap ko ang number ni Elias at nakita kong may message na rin siya saakin.

Elias

: Where did you go? May inuman after the game, nawala nanaman kayo ni Vesper.

Nakagat ko ang labi ko sa text niya at agad akong nag reply.

Sulli

: I’m with Ves. We are just talking about what happened earlier. Let’s celebrate again tomorrow. Anyway, can I ask you something?

Elias

: What is it?

Sulli

: After the NQUL incident you told me last time, hindi na ba talaga binanggit ni Vesper ang nangyari noon? Not even once?

Elias

: He told us that he’s giving up Jadeline, he told us he’s guilty about what happened to her and it’s better if they don’t cross paths again. That’s the only thing he mentioned about that incident and after that, he didn’t mention anything about it again. Why are you still asking? I thought you are already dating him?

Napangiwi ako sa huli niyang sinabi ngunit mas lalo akong naguluhan sa sagot niya sa tanong ko.

So he does remember about her and what happened to his ex. I frowned and texted back.

Sulli

: We are not in a relationship.

Iyon lamang ang sagot ko bago ko itinago ang selpon ko. Ihiniga ko ang kalahating katawan ko sa kama habang nakaapak sa sahig ang paa ko. I stared at the ceiling for too long, figuring out what else could Sid have told him.

Did something else happened between the two of them that no one else knew? Napakurap-kurap ako at tumayo nang makaramdam ng uhaw at gutom.

I shouldn’t think of it too much. I might really like Vesper now, but I already promised to myself that I won’t get pulled with their old flames! Hindi na dapat ako makialam pa para hindi na ako madamay. I should stay away from curiosity and just mind my own business. Kung ano man ang mga problema nila, sakanila na lang dapat iyon!

Right now, I just want to have a freaking dinner and probably drink some wine. Napagod rin ako sa laro kanina. I deserve some heartfelt meal and a good wine.

Lumabas ako ng kwarto ni Vesper at tahimik na hinanap ang kusina nila ngunit malaki ang mansyon kaya matagal akong nagpalakad-lakad. Wala pa akong makitang tao probably because it’s already ten pm.

“Where the hell is it?” Ungot ko. Nakakita ako ng hagdan pababa at lumiwanag ang mukha ko nang makita ko si Isaac sa baba. Agad akong tumakbo sa hagdan at tinawag siya.

“Isaac!” Tawag pansin ko sakaniya at nagulat pa ako nang makitang nakapantulog na siya. I was chuckling while looking at him. Nakasuot siya ng pajama terno na kulay puti. This is the first time I’m seeing him wear a different color other than black.

“Mr. Turner, sir.” I scoffed with what he called me.

“Just call me Sulli, I told you already.” Ani ko dahil noong hinatid niya ako sa condo ko nung nakaraan ay ganon rin ang itinawag niya saakin.

“Where’s Vesper? I thought he was with you?” I asked. Umiling naman siya agad saakin.

“He was with me earlier. But he left and said he needs to go somewhere else.” Tumaas ang kilay ko sa sinabi niya. Saan naman kaya pupunta ang isang ’yon? Napailing ako ng ulo. I should refrain from questioning things about him and his whereabouts. I’m only here because I’m drawn to him, well, maybe drawn to the sex and that’s all it should be! Masiyadong komplikado ang buhay niya, I don’t wanna get dragged by it and add more fuel to his problems.

I’m only here for the good fucking!

I was trying so hard to convince myself when Isaac suddenly speak.

“Is there anything else you need, Sir– I mean, Sulli?” Ngumiti ako sa tinawag niya saakin at tumango sa tanong niya.

“I’m hungry. I was looking for Vesper so he can cook for me but he’s nowhere to be found. Can you please order me something instead? I’m really starving right now.” Paliwanag ko sakaniya. Umayos naman siya nang tayo at akmang aalis na habang may sinasabi.

“I will wake up the servants to cook for you.” Sabi niya kaya agad ko siyang pinigilan.

“What? No. Just order something for me. Wag ka nang mang abala pa.” Hinawakan ko ang balikat niya para hindi siya makaalis. Ilang segundo niya akong tiningnan bago muling umayos nang tayo na parang isang straight na stick.

“I’ll cook for you then. The House of Herrera does not grant entry to just any visitor. So, no food orders from the outside.” I looked at him in awe when he said that gracefully.

“Wow. You really sound like some royalty butler or something like that.” I scoffed. He just looked at me and then made his way to I presumed, the kitchen.

Pumasok nga kami sa isang malaking kusina at agad niya akong pinaupo sa isang tool katapat ng island counter. Dahil malaki ang mansyon nila, sobrang laki rin ng kusina. Lahat ata ng spices and groceries nandito na. Napailing na lamang ako sa sobrang yaman ng pamilya ni Vesper.

I looked at Isaac who already put on an apron and is arranging the ingredients he’s probably gonna chop cause I saw a knife and a chopping board. Naalala ko ulit ang sinabi niya saakin kanina kaya nagtanong ako.

“You told me this house doesn’t accept just any visitors, but this is my second time being here.” I told him. He looked at me and smiled. Nagulat pa ako roon dahil unang beses niya iyong ginawa saakin.

“You are Vesper’s person , so the house accepted you immediately. You are the first person he brought here.” Kumunot ang noo ko sa sinabi niya.

“You really speak so odd. What do you mean I’m his person? And for real? I’m the first one he brought here?” Sumimangot ako sakaniya dahil hindi ko maintindihan ang mga pinipili niyang mga salita. He speaks so weird. Habang inaantay siyang sumagot ay dumako ang mga tingin ko sa isang see through cabinet na may mga lamang bote ng wine. Napalunok ako habang nakatingin roon at mukhang napansin niya iyon.

“Are you not his partner? The first time he brought you here and right now, have you ever seen anyone inside this house other than his sister, the servants and me?” I glared at him when he said the first sentence. Partner my ass. Ngunit napaisip rin ako na wala nga akong ibang makitang tao rito kundi sila lamang.

“I’m definitely not his partner. You’re crazy for thinking that.” Depensa ko and I was about to ask something again when he walked towards the cabinet of wine and pulled a bottle. Kumuha rin siya ng wine glass at inilapag sa harap ko. I was smiling ear to ear when he opened the bottle of wine and poured some on my glass.

“Damn. You are so good at your job.” Ngiti ko bago kinuha ang wine glass at uminom roon. I closed my eyes and grunted when I tasted the rich flavor of the wine. It tastes so freaking good!

“Please enjoy your drink while I prepare your meal, sir.” I rolled my eyes at him when he called me that again. Pinanuod ko nga siyang mag chop ng mga sahog sa lulutuin niya habang umiinom ako ng wine. I was enjoying my drink when I suddenly choke on it. Agad akong naubo at mabilis namang kumuha ng tissue si Isaac at lumapit saakin.

“Shit.” I cursed. Isaac was wiping the tissue on my mouth and rubbing my back to soothe me when a loud voice startled the both of us.

“What the hell do you think you are doing?” I didn’t need to look at him to know who that voice belonged to.

---

Vesper’s

Humangos ako nang malalim nang makapasok ako sa pinto ng bahay namin. I visited someone that is helping me about my disconnection whenever Sid is saying something to me. I’m actually losing my mind trying to find out what the hell he’s trying to say. Napaungot ako at a-akyat na sana ng hagdan papunta sa kwarto ko kung saan iniwan ko kanina si Sulli nang may marinig akong pamilyar na boses.

“Damn. You are so good at your job.” My eyes furrowed at the kitchen when I heard Sulli’s voice. Isn’t he inside my room? Napamura ako nang maalalang hindi pa nga pala kami kumakain ng hapunan. He must be starving and manang Jess is cooking for him.

Lumakad ako papunta sa kusina at muli kong narinig ang boses niya. I heard him coughing and cursing so I walked quickly. Nang makarating ako sa entrance ng kusina ay si Isaac agad ang nakita ko.

Isaac was gently wiping his lips with tissues and his hands are gently caressing his back. What caught my attention the most is what he’s wearing while Isaac is attentively tending to him.

His long legs are fully exposed.

“What the hell do you think you are doing?” My jealousy instantly got into my head. Why the hell is he outside my room only wearing that?

“Vex.” Tawag saakin ni Isaac. I didn’t look at him and I was only staring at Sulli who’s already facing me. Napalunok ako sa itsura niya.

His lips are so red probably because of the red wine he’s drinking, his eyes are watery while looking at me innocently and his wavy hair is sitting so well around his face. He looks so fucking erotic right now. My jaw tightened and walked towards him. Hinawakan ko siya sa braso at mahinang hinila patayo.

“Bring the food to my room after you finished cooking.” Utos ko kay Isaac dahil nakita ko ang suot niyang apron. Did Sulli asked Isaac to cook for him? For some reason, the way I found them isn’t sitting well with me.

Inakay ko si Sulli na nagpaalam pa kay Isaac. Umakyat kami sa kwarto ko at doon ko nakita na hawak niya pa rin ang baso ng wine at bote niyon. He was drinking it in front of me when we entered my room.

“Where were you? I wanted to celebrate our victory by having dinner and wine but you were nowhere to be found.” He said and carelessly sat on my sofa. His long legs are showing again and he even crossed it. Umangat ang suot niyang boxer at halos makita ko na ang singit at pisnge ng pwet niya.

“Fuck. Did you walk around the house wearing that? Isaac is a man.” Inis kong ani. I’m trying not to be so jealous and lash out at him but seeing him being so careless like this and the thought that another man got to see it is making me so fucking mad.

“Huh?” He looked at me confused while still sipping on his wine. I walked towards him and grabbed the bottle of wine and the glass he’s holding. “Hey! That’s mine!” Akma niya pang aagawin iyon ngunit mabilis ko siyang itinulak pahiga sa sofa pagkatapos kong mailapag sa mesa ang wine niya.

“Fuck it, Sulli. Why are you so careless?” Ani ko bago siya kubabawan. He looked at me shocked and confused.

“What did I do?” Tanong niya pa. I glared at him and gripped his milky legs. Napaigtad naman siya roon.

“Really? You don’t know what you are doing? You were with some other man while only wearing a boxer, Sulli.” Mas lalo kong hinigpitan ang hawak ko sa hita niya. He couldn’t hold a whimper and pushed me. Mabilis siyang tumayo at inis na tumingin saakin.

“The hell are you mad about? That man you are talking about is your butler. Tsaka, gutom na gutom na ako and I don’t have any other clothes.” Paliwanag niya habang inaayos ang suot niyang boxer. No matter how much he fix it, it’s still fucking showing his legs.

“Isaac is still a man. I don’t care if he’s my butler, if you ever let him see you like this, I will kill him. I’m not kidding, Sulli.” Seryoso kong ani dahil umaakyat lahat ng selos sa ulo ko. He looked at me like I’m crazy before rolling his eyes at me.

“You are so possessive. Just a reminder, captain. I’m not your possession.” Pagmamaldita niya. I licked my lips and looked at the bump on his front. He’s hard, and I just touched his legs. I suppressed a smile and started unbuckling my belt. Agad na natuon roon ang tingin niya at nanlaki pa ang mga mata nang ibaba ko ang suot kong short at ilabas ko ang ari ko sa suot kong brief.

“What the hell are you doing?!” Tili niya at agad na iniwas ang tingin saakin. Kinuha ko ang bote ng wine na iniinom niya bago muling sumandal sa sofa.

“Come here. Drink your wine.” Alok ko kaya tinalasan niya ako ng tingin.

“So why are you exposing your dick?!” Singhal niya pa. I looked at him knowingly and I know he’s weak to my requests whenever I show him I’m so horny. I bit my lips and showed him my lustful eyes.

“Sulli, suck my dick. Please?” I said, begging and demanding.

SR

A/N:

😋

Rivalry 32

Sulli’s

“Sulli, I’m waiting. He’s waiting.” Muli akong napalunok sa sinabi ni Vesper. Fuck. He’s looking at me like he wants me so much again. Damn it. Why am I so weak whenever he wants to indulge me? Why am I so attracted whenever he acts so horny for me?! Seriously, I hate myself for being this easy.

“Damn you, Ves!” I cursed and walked towards him. I glared at him before slowly kneeling in front of him. My eyes couldn’t help but look at his hardness. He’s really waiting. It’s so freaking hard and huge. Tayong-tayo para saakin. Paulit-ulit akong napalunok. Nawala ata ang gutom ko sa pagkain at napalitan iyon ng kakaibang gutom para sakaniya.

“Remove your clothes.” Utos niya habang hindi pa rin ako nakakagalaw.

“No.” Pagmamatigas ko. He tilted his head at me while his lustful seductive eyes are still eyeing me.

“I want to see you naked. C’mon, show me and I will let you drink this whole bottle of wine.” Udyok niya. He didn’t need to pursue me harder. I wanted to have sex with him earlier anyway, but now that he’s the one making all this request to have me, I feel so embarrassed yet my body also feels so hot.

Sinunod ko ang gusto niya at tumayo ako habang hindi inaalis ang tingin sakaniya. I pulled my shirt and throw it before I pulled down my boxer. I did all of that while looking at him watching me like he’s an eagle trying to prey on me. Matagal niyang tinitigan ang katawan ko bago ako muling sinenyasan na lumuhod. I did what he asked but was immediately caught off guard when he pulled my long hair to pushed my face towards his balls.

“Vesper!” I glared at him but he was only looking at me like he’s already gone from the pleasure.

“Drink.” He demanded before pouring some of the wine at the head of his cock. Nanlaki ang mga mata ko at nakita ko pang bumaba ang likido mula sa ulo ng ari niya pababa sa dalawang bola kung nasaan ang bibig ko. I glared at him again and couldn’t do anything but lick his balls so I could drink the wine. I gripped his thighs and I was immediately drowned by his masculine scent when I started licking him.

The rich flavor of the wine and his own taste mixed so well. Agad kong nagustuhan iyon at tumaas ang dila ko papunta sa kahabaan niya hanggang sa hindi ko na alintana ang itsura ko habang gutom na gutom na iniinom ang wine na binubuhos niya sakaniyang kalakihan. I know I might be looking like a hungry horny brat right now but that only made me feel hornier.

“Fuck. Good..” Mas lalo pa akong ginanahan nang marinig ko ang mga ungot niya. I closed my eyes and only use my tongue to lick all of the wine he’s pouring. Hanggang sa umabot ako sa ulo ng ari niya at maingay ko iyong sinipsip.

“Shit. Sulli– fuck!” Humigpit ang hawak niya sa buhok ko at bigla niyang inangat ang ulo ko. I opened my eyes and I was met with his rough lips. He claimed my lips roughly and we started kissing. I didn’t know if I was getting drunk from the wine or his kisses but I’m sure my head is floating right now.

We are both devouring each other’s lips while his two big hands are cupping my face.

“Vesper..” Ungot ko nang paupuin niya ako sa hita niya bago lantakan ang leeg at dibdib ko. “Ohh!” I moaned when he sucked so hard on my nipple. Nasabunutan ko ang buhok niya.

“I love your fucking moans, fuck.” Mariin niyang mura bago ako muling halikan. Maya-maya ay tumayo siya habang karga-karga ako at napatili pa ako nang ihagis niya ako sa malambot niyang kama. He pulled something in his bed side table before crawling on top of me.

“I’m going to fuck you so hard the whole house will hear you moaning so loud, Sulli.” Hingal niyang ani at napalunok lamang ako roon. He’s so freaking jealous just because I showed his butler my freaking legs. But that somehow made me feel so fucking happy that he’s possessive of me.

“You’re so boastful.” I taunted while watching him put a condom and lubes all over his big cock. Fuck. I can’t wait to feel him inside me again.

“Yeah, I’m boasting. You know my big cock will always make up for it.” Mayabang niyang ani bago hawakan ang dalawang hita ko at itulak iyon papunta sa dibdib ko. I whimpered when I felt so exposed to him. He was looking at my hole and I twitched when he spit on it.

“Vesper! Fuck you.” Singhal ko ngunit agad na nawala ang pagtutol ko nang isahan niyang ipasok saakin ang malaki niyang ari. My head fell backwards and my eyes rolled back so hard that I saw light.

“Fuck! Ohh!” Malakas kong ungot dahil sa biglaang sarap na dumaloy mula sa entrada ko papunta sa puson at likod bago lumukob sa ulo ko.

“Shit. Tight..” Rinig kong ungot niya habang ipinipilit niya pa ring ipasok nang sagad saakin ang kahabaan niya. I was gasping for air while whimpering. Fuck, I just felt like an itch was finally scratched inside me.

Was I looking forward and craving this the whole time? Probably. He fucked me so good the first time that I’m actually wanting it again. I must be going crazy.

“You feel so good, baby..” Nang maisagad niya saakin ang ari niya ay pareho kaming hingal na naghalikan. He didn’t move for a minute and we were just making out until my ass got used to his huge dick. Doon lamang siya bumwelo at mabilis na umulos sa entrada ko.

“Ohh! Shit, Vesper!” I gripped his arms and my nails are probably digging his skin already but I couldn’t help it. He is hitting something inside me and I can’t stop moaning and scratching him.

I don’t want him to stop but my body was trying to move and get away from his rough thrusts. The sensation was overwhelming and it was eating my whole system. I was lost in pleasure and all I could do was chant his name.

“Vesper! Ohh! Fuck! Fuck! Vesper!” Mas lalo akong umingay nang ipatalikod niya ako. I was kneeling on his bed and he entered me again. Sabay kaming napaungot sa sarap na dulot ng pagpasok niya saakin.

“Sulli, I want to fuck you all night. Shit.” Bulong niya saakin mula sa likod bago muling walang awang umulos saakin. I gripped the headboard and tried so hard not to faint when I felt like coming already.

“Ves! Captain, I’m coming! Stop!” I tried to get away again but his thrusts only got rougher and faster. His lips are trailing kisses on my nape down to my shoulders and sometimes giving me a quick kiss on my cheek. Lahat iyon ay nagagawa niya habang mahigpit ang hawak sa balakang ko at walang patid ang pag ulos saakin. He was fucking me so good and hard again. He’s hitting all the spot and my body is getting weak from so much pleasure especially my knees.

“Uh! I’m coming! Please!” I don’t know what I’m talking about anymore and I just keep moaning and moaning while trying not to cum already. Ayokong labasan agad dahil sarap na sarap pa ako sa mga ulos niya. Bukod roon ay dumadagdag pa ang mga mahihina niyang ungot at mura habang pabilis nang pabilis ang pagpasok ng kalakihan niya saakin.

“Damn it. You’re so fucking tight, Sulli. Fuck!” His thrusts got so rough again. “You’re sucking my dick so nice, ohh! Sulli!” My eyes couldn’t do anything but roll back from the pleasure.

I know I was so near and I was anticipating it already. My body already collapsed on the bed but Vesper was still fucking me from behind and my moans was getting weaker because of the nearing climax. But when I was about to cum, I heard a knock on the door.

“Vex, the food is here.” Nakagat ko ang labi ko nang marinig ko ang boses ni Isaac mula sa labas ng kwarto ni Vesper kung saan niya ako pinagsasawaan. I tried so hard not to cum so I don’t make a sound but Vesper saw that and he mercilessly slammed his cock into me.

“Ohh! Fuck! Ohhh! Oh! Vesper!” I couldn’t hold it in anymore and my body convulsed beneath him. I was so loud while reaching my climax and Vesper couldn’t care less of who’s gonna hear us outside!

“Fuck! Yeah, you feel so good, baby. Ohh..“Kahit nanginginig na ako sa ilalim niya ay patuloy siyang umulos sa entrada ko hanggang sa naabot niya rin ang rurok. Dinaganan niya ako habang nilalabasan siya at binaon niya sa leeg ko ang mukha niya para doon umungot.

“Fuck! Sulliii.. ohh…” Nakagat ko ang labi ko at napaungot rin nang marinig ko ang ungol niya. He sounds so fucking hot moaning my name.

I completely forgot about the person outside the room but I was pulled back into reality when Isaac spoke again.

“Ahem.. I’ll come back later then.” Rinig kong sabi niya at napapapikit na nanghina na lamang ako sa hiya. I’m fucking sure he heard us!

“No. I’m coming.” Vesper chuckled and I bit my lip when he pulled out his still hard rod inside me. I heard him took a breath before spanking my butt.

“Hey!” Saway ko ngunit nginitian lang ako ng loko bago tumayo. Kumuha siya ng twalya sa loob ng bathroom niya at itinapis iyon sa sarili niya bago lumakad palapit sa pinto ng kwarto.

“Cover yourself, remember what I told you.” Bago niya buksan ang pinto ay tiningnan niya ako at sinabi iyon. Mabilis kong tinakpan ng duvet cover ang katawan ko ngunit ang ulo ko ay labas at pinagmamasdan ang bawat galaw niya.

He walks so confident and full of himself. Napanguso ako. Pero bakit ganon? I’m so fucking attracted to this side of him. Kahit hambog siya gumalaw ay napaka gwapo niya sa paningin ko! Kainis. Ang sarap niya pa tingnan sa itsura niya ngayon. Halatang pagod at medyo pawis, nakatapis lamang ng twalya sa bewang at lumalabas nanaman ang buhok sa puson niya. His dirty-blonde hair is slightly wet and he’s fixing it while looking at Isaac. I silently gasped when I saw a bunch of scratches on his arm, shoulders and even at his back. I freaking did that.

He look so fucking masculine. A big man. His muscles are pumped up because of what we did. Nakagat ko ang labi ko.

“What did you cook?” Tinakpan ko ang ulo ko ngunit sumilip pa rin ako sakanila nang pumasok si Isaac ng kwarto. Hindi siya makatingin sa direksyon ko at napangiwi pa ako nang mapagmasdan na namumula ang mga tenga niya habang si Vesper ay parang wala lang.

That bastard Vesper plan all of this. I’m sure! Pinarinig niya talaga kay Isaac dahil lamang nagseselos siya kanina! Hambog talaga!

“Pasta and steak.” Mahinang sagot ni Isaac na pinipilit pa rin maging pormal. Vesper helped him put the foods on the table in front of the sofa.

“What happened to your sofa? Should I call a cleaner?” Nanlaki ang mga mata ko nang makita ang tinutukoy ni Isaac. The bottle of wine was on the sofa, it’s already emptied out because the wine was all over the couch! Nag-init ang mukha ko sa naalala kong pinagawa saakin kanina ni Vesper. That freak.

“Don’t worry about it. Bukas mo na lang palinisan.” Sagot ni Vesper at tumango naman si Isaac. Nagpaalam siyang a-alis na at nang tuluyan siyang lumabas ay umalis agad ako sa kama para tingnan at tikman ang niluto niya.

“Hm! I didn’t know Isaac can cook so good.” Ani ko nang matikman ko ang pasta na niluto niya. Vesper was only staring at me while putting clothes on. Inabutan niya rin ako ng damit ngunit malaking t-shirt lang iyon. Hindi na ako nagreklamo pa at sinuot na iyon dahil gutom na gutom na ako kanina pa. I sat on the clean part of the couch and Vesper followed.

“Give me some.” Ani niya at inakbayan pa ako. Kumuha ako ng pasta sa tinidor na hawak ko at isinubo iyon sakaniya. He ate and shook his head.

“I cook better than this. You have low standards when it comes to food.” Mayabang niya nanaman na sabi habang inaayos ang gulo-gulo kong buhok. I rolled my eyes at him and made face while eating the pasta.

“Why don’t you cook for me then?” I said that because I was doubting his cooking skills.

“Alright.” Sagot niya. Pinagtaasan ko lamang siya ng kilay at gigil niya naman akong hinalikan sa pisnge bago ulit tumayo.

“I’ll just talk to Isaac and be back quickly. Eat a lot, you need it.” Kinindatan niya ako at tinuro ko lamang siya ng tinidor habang ngumunguya pa rin.

Hambog!

---

Vesper’s

Kumuha ako ng yosi sa pitaka ko at inilagay iyon sa bibig ko habang pababa ng hagdan. I saw Isaac sitting on the sofa at the sala and I walked towards him. Nakita niya naman ako at agad siyang tumayo.

“Vex, I wasn’t doing anything with Sulli. He choked on the wine so I was just helping him.” Agad niyang paliwanag habang sinisindihan ko ang yosing nasa bibig ko. I stared at him before I spoke.

“If I ever see you touching him again like that, you know what will happen.” Banta ko at muli siyang nagsalita.

“I was really only helping him. I promise.” Paliwanag niya pa. Binuga ko ang usok sa bibig ko bago siya sinagot.

“Did he ask you to cook for him?” Tanong ko. He shook his head.

“He said he was hungry, he was looking for you and I couldn’t tell him where you at.” Umupo ako sa couch nang sabihin niya iyon. Muli akong humithit sa yosi bago nagsalita.

“Did you know that I’m not his first kiss? Worst, hindi pa ako ang second kiss niya. It was that ugly actor and that stupid Sid who stole all of that kiss! At ngayon, ikaw naman ang naunang magluto ng pagkain para sakaniya? Inagaw mo pa talaga saakin ’yon?” Inis kong sabi sakaniya at hindi agad siya nakaimik. That was one of the dates I planned in my head with Sulli. To be in the kitchen with him, just the two of us. I’m cooking and he’s only watching me and relaxing. But Isaac just ruined it! He stared at me for a while before speaking.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t thought of that at all. I’m really sorry.” Hingi niya nang paumanhin pero lalo lang akong nainis.

“At hinayaan mo lang talaga siyang magpalakad-lakad dito sa bahay nang ganon ang suot? Did you enjoy what you saw?” Singhal ko. Mabilis na umiling ang ulo niya.

“No! Never. I don’t think of sir Sulli like that.” Mariin niyang tanggi. Napahangos ako nang malalim at napailing sakaniya.

“Dapat lang. I’ll kill you if you ever look at him the wrong way. And if you see some other guy also looking at him the wrong way, kill them.” I sneered and stood up.

“Is that an order? Should I keep an eye on hi–” Hindi ko na pinatapos ang sasabihin niya.

“No. Stay away from my boyfriend.” Tiningnan ko siya nang matalim. Tiningnan niya naman ako na parang nawiwindang.

“He told me he is not in a relationship with you.” He said that with the most innocent tone but that made me more irritated and insulted. This fucker.

“Shut up and get lost, Isaac!” Singhal ko at agad naman siyang tumalikod para lumakad na papunta sa kwarto niya.

“Goodnight, Vex.” Pahabol niya pa at tinapon ko sa direksyon niya ang yosing hawak ko. Wala naman na iyong sindi kaya mabilis siyang lumakad palayo saakin at hindi na iyon pinansin pa. I shook my head and sneered at his direction.

Seriously, how can I keep Sulli away from other men when his sports is basketball?

One of these days, I think I’m gonna lose my mind because of extreme jealousy.

SR

Rivalry 33

A/N: Vesper and Sulli is not in this chapter! This is what I told all of you about SR being a loong story, I have side characters I want to write also. I’m cooking something new/messy. I’m fully committed to this book!

💋

Sevan’s

“Fuck!” Napamura ako nang makita ang tumatawag saakin mula sa screen ng selpon. It’s my father, if I can even call him that. Humangos ako nang malalim bago tumayo at nagpaalam sa kasama ko sa bar para lumabas at sagutin ang tawag ng magaling kong ama.

“Hello? Pa?” Nang makarating sa parking lot ay sinagot ko ang tawag niya.

“I’m coming to the Philippines, do not inform your brother until I’m there. But make sure he will meet me.” Nanigas ako sa kinatatayuan nang marinig ang sinabi niya.

“W-Why?” I tried so hard to calm myself. What the hell does he want again?

“Because you failed. I told you to keep an eye on your brother while he’s still there, but you let him announced to the world that he’s gay.” Nahilot ko ang sintido ko at ilang ulit na malalim na humangos sa sinabi niya. I couldn’t attend Sulli’s last game because I was busy with my fucking schedule. It was also a shock to me that he suddenly came out on live. He knew too well that our father will unleash chaos if he does, but for some reason he still did it.

“I’m sorry. What do you want me to do?” Humigpit ang hawak ko sa selpon.

“Nothing. You are useless. I’m getting him back, Sullivan will go home with me.” Iyon lamang at pinatay niya na ang tawag. Nasipa ko ang kotse sa harap ko nang matapos ang usapan namin. Inis akong tumitig sa kawalan habang malalim ang hangos.

“Damn it, kuya.” Nanghihina kong ani. Kung ako lamang ang masusunod ay gusto ko na siyang tumigil sa paglalaro but I can’t tame him. Masiyado siyang spoiled ng papa, kabaliktaran ng trato saakin.

Our father only loves him, for Stevan, Sulli is his only son. Maiintindihan ko pa iyon dahil bastardo ako, but he did not only disregard my existence, he also made me a loyal dog.

I was so young when my mother died, and that’s when my so called father kept me. Pinatira niya ako sa malaki niyang mansiyon, he’s fucking crazy rich. But his only hobby is to control his legitimate son, Sullivan. Ang akala ko ay kaya niya ako kinupkup ay para ituring rin na anak, but no. Unang apak ko pa lamang sa mansiyon niya ay may utos agad siya saakin, and that is to get close with my brother. Treat him really well, do whatever he asks and cater to him.

It wasn’t hard for me, Sulli is the only one who loved me inside that hell hole. I’m willing to do everything for him because he also did the same to me, but what I don’t like is controlling everything around him so that our father will leave us alone.

I needed to report everything to my so called father, everything that’s been happening, happened and is about to happen to my older brother. He needed to know everyone around him and I’m the one who needs to report everything. The last shitty thing he made me do is for me to make Sulli lose his feelings for Sebastian. And so I did. I was the perfect little victim in Sebastian eyes, that’s the plan so he will take pity on me and mistake it for romantic affection. It was the most perfect plan, he actually thought he loved me and not my perfect older brother.

He was naive, Sebastian fell for the trap and that made Sullivan lose feelings for him. But then Vesper Magnus Herrera entered the scene.

Pagod na ako. That’s all I can think of every time I needed to do evil shit to my own brother. I can’t do it anymore, but if I don’t, my own freedom will get taken away.

My so called father only agreed na pumunta ako sa Pilipinas para ilayo ko si Sebastian sa pinakamamahal niyang anak. The funny thing is, he also loved Sebastian, kaya ako ang pinain niya sa kasamaang gusto niyang gawin, para sa mata ni Sebastian at Sullivan, ako ang may gawa ng lahat.

I didn’t tell my father that they had a relationship, I only told him that Sulli have feelings for Sebastian. If I ever told him or he found out, I don’t even know what he will do with Sebastian. So I played my cards right.

My father didn’t want to let go of Sebastian, because in his eyes, he’s the perfect role model for Sullivan. He was even more in favor of him than me, his fucking own blood. I don’t know what is it that he wants to do with my older brother, but I know he has plans. And I can’t even warn my own brother about it without him knowing all my crazy shits just so I can get away with our father.

I made our father promised to let me go if I succeed in erasing Sullivan’s feelings for Sebastian. Nagawa ko iyon, but we have bigger problems now and that is Vesper. I just hope my older brother doesn’t fall for him that much before our father give me orders again.

And I hope my older brother can fight for himself against our father, I’m still hopeful because he already escaped that hell hole of a house in Canada. I’m still surprised that our father actually let him go here in the Philippines.

Naihilamos ko ang palad ko sa sariling mukha bago sana lalakad muli papasok sa bar nang may mapansin akong pares ng mga matang sumusunod sa bawat galaw ko.

Him again?

Nagsuot ako ng cap para hindi makilala ng ibang tao and I changed my route and walked towards a cafe near the bar I was supposed to enter. Hindi ko na ulit siya napansin ngunit alam kong nakamasid pa rin siya saakin sa kung saan. He’s good at hiding and not being noticed, but I was raised different by my father who’s involved in illegal shits. I notice him whenever he slips up. Whoever this person is, he wants something from me. He’s been following me around for a while now. And I know it’s a guy because I smelled him twice before.

Nag order ako ng kape at umupo sa bakanteng table habang hinihintay ang susunod niyang galaw.

Will he go near me? What does this person want? Padala ba siya ng papa? O ng ibang tao?

Malalim ang iniisip ko nang biglang may nagsalita mula sa gilid ko.

“What do we have here, a very famous actor inside a shabby cafe?” Inayos ko ang suot kong cap ngunit sinulyapan ko pa rin ang nagsalita. I almost rolled my eyes when I saw who it was. Mabuti na lang at wala masyadong tao sa loob ng cafe at walang nakarinig sakaniya.

“Fuck off, ugly duck.” I spat and I wanted to ignore him but he sat in front of me. I furrowed my eyes at him and he’s wearing his ugly smile at me. Ano bang kailangan ng lokong ’to?

“Me? Ugly? Honey, I know I look good. But my face was pretty beaten up when you swung your fist at me last time. Do you still remember that? Huh?” I glared at him when he started talking so much.

“Do you want me to punch your face again? And I told you, stop fucking with my brother. I saw the pictures circulating again, fuck. He had to come out because of that shit.” Ako naman ang napadaldal dahil sa inis. Gusto kong kaltukan ang sarili ko dahil roon. Damn it.

“Hey, you can’t blame me that your brother is a walking temptation to everyone. Which reminds me, you two look a lot like but you’re not that tempting to look at.” I blew a loud breath with his nonsense.

“Your name is Sid, right?” Tanong ko kahit alam ko naman na iyon. He nodded.

“I haven’t properly introduced myself to you, my name is Sevan Lucien. I’ll be the one to break that ugly face of yours if you don’t get the fuck away from me and my brother. It means get lost, motherfucker.” I cursed at him and he stared at me for a long time before laughing his ass off. Muli kong inayos ang suot kong cap at gusto kong sipain ang mukha nitong nasa harapan ko. Sira ulo talaga. Napatingin tuloy saamin ang ibang customer.

“That’s the temptation I’ve been looking for! You just needed a little bit more fierce in your eyes to resemble your older brother’s brattiness. Bravo, Lucien.” Pumalakpak pa siya at wala akong ibang nagawa kundi ang tumayo at layasan siya roon. Lumabas akong muli ng cafe na iyon dahil baka doon ko pa siya mabugbog. Kung hindi lang ako artista ay nilumpo ko na siya sa loob ng cafe na iyon. Muli sana akong lalakad palapit sa kotse ko nang may humawak sa braso ko.

“Hey, hindi pa ako tapos. Don’t you want to know me more?” I glared at him again. May sira ba talaga ang ulo ng isang ’to?

“Namimiss mo ba ang bangas mo? Do you want me to punch you again?” I positioned myself to punch him and was about to do it, but instead of backing away, he stepped forward. Hindi ko pinansin ang pag abante niya at susuntok na sana ako nang hulihin niya ang dalawang kamay ko. I was caught off guard when I couldn’t pull away from his grip.

“Fuck off!” Singhal ko. I am wondering where does his strength suddenly came from, noong una kong basag sa mukha niya ay hindi siya nakapanlaban saakin.

Was that on purpose?

“Boy, you are so little to be this delinquent. An A list actor throwing punches like it’s nothing. Man, this will be a juicy scandal.” He said amusingly. I was about to kick his dick when someone suddenly spoke behind me.

“Let go of him.” I whipped my head to the one who spoke. This is the fucking smell I am familiar with. Pareho kaming natameme ni Sid habang nakatingin sa lalaking naka purong itim na damit.

He’s a little bit smaller than me, and he has a very pretty face besides his stoic expression. Thin full eyebrows, slanted eyes and he is a brunette. Maputi siya at may i-ilang freckles sa dalawang pisnge niya at sa ibabaw ng matangos niyang ilong. He has a small kissable lips and he’s looking at us with nothing but boredom in his eyes.

Napangiti ako dahil sa wakas ay nakita ko na kung sino ang sumusunod saakin nitong mga nakaraang araw.

Why is this pretty face stalking me?

“Ugh, why the hell are you here, Isaac? Vesper sent you?” Biglang ani ni Sid habang nasa ganoon pa rin kaming posisyon. Isaac looked at him before walking towards us. Pinanood ko ang bawat galaw niya at napaka pino ng mga galaw ng lalaking ito. I’m confused of what Sid just said and looks like he knows him but I was more interested to the man in front of me. Nagulat pa ako nang hawakan niya rin ang dalawang braso ko at mahina at malumanay niyang inalis ang mga hawak saakin ni Sid.

“I was just walking around and happened to find the two of you, sir.” Tinawag niyang sir si Sid kaya ako naman ang napatanong.

“Who are you?” I asked full of curiosity. He looked at me in the eyes before speaking.

“My name is Isaac, sir.” He also called me sir. Napakunot noo ako sa sagot niya. That’s not what I was asking.

“You just happened to find the two of us? Or Vesper asked you to follow me around?” Tumingin naman ako kay Sid dahil kanina niya pa binabanggit ang pangalan ni Vesper. What is Vesper had to do with this man?

“No, sir. I’m not following you.” Because I’m sure I’m the one he’s following around.

“What’s Vesper have to do with him?” Kay Sid ako nagtanong dahil walang kwenta ang mga sagot nitong lalaking Isaac raw ang pangalan. He sounds like he’s hiding something and I know he really does. His answers are short and vague.

“Isaac is Vesper’s butler. Why are the three of you here?” May muling nagsalita sa likod ni Sid at mabilis kong nakilala ang boses na iyon. It’s my cousin, Owen. May mga hawak siyang grocery bag at papalit-palit ang tingin saamin na halatang nagtataka. Ngunit tumagal ang mga tingin niya kay Isaac na mukhang nagulat sa presensya niya.

“Great, is this a reunion? Although, it’s a random mix up.” Sid sarcastically said. Tumingin naman ako kay Isaac. He’s Vesper’s butler? Then why was he following me around? Napaisip ako at wala akong ibang maisip na dahilan kundi ang amo niya.

Did Vesper told him to follow me around? Why? That cunning bastard.

“Allow me to help you, sir.” Muli akong tumingin kay Isaac nang lapitan niya si Owen at kinuha ang mga dala nitong grocery. While Isaac has no expression and looks like he’s just genuinely trying to help, Owen has this sparkle in his eyes while looking at him. Doon ako napangiti.

My cousin and I have a very similar type. Too bad for him, I’m also interested to that stoic man.

“My my, what am I seeing.” I looked at Sid when he said that while staring at my face. He saw the desire in my eyes. I glared at him and walked away from them.

I still have a lot to worry about. After all this shit, I’m going to live my life to the fullest.

And I think I know what I want to do.

SR

Rivalry 34

Sulli’s

“Do you have mouthwash?” Tanong ko kay Vesper habang nasa sofa ako at kinakalkal ang sports bag ko habang siya naman ay kalalabas lang ng shower room. He’s flexing his broad shoulders and chest again. Wala naman kami ngayong pasok pero u-uwi ako sa bahay ng grandparents ko.

“What for? I thought you already showered?” Tanong niya dahil nakabihis na ako paalis.

“I want to wash my piercings.” Nilabas ko ang tongue piercing ko at ang horizontal eyebrow piercing. Curious naman siyang lumapit saakin at tiningnan iyon.

“Why did you have this kind of piercing?” Bigla niyang tanong at umupo sa tabi ko. Naalala ko naman agad kung bakit meron ako nito.

“My dad hated the way I look, he said I don’t look like a guy so he told me to do something about it. I said yes. Ang akala niya ay magpapa gupit ako, pero sa inis ko sakaniya, nagpa piercing na lang ako para asarin rin siya. He was so mad at me so I kept wearing it.” Kwento ko habang natatawa. Even tho that was my reason, I came to love my piercings especially the one on my tongue.

“Pasaway. How about your hair? Why aren’t you cutting it?” Tanong niya pa at nawala ang ngiti ko. Ilang segundo pa ako natahimik at napansin niya iyon. Sumagot ako.

“My ex wanted my hair like this.” Mahina kong sagot bago tumayo at naglakad papunta sa shower room. “I’ll just wash my piercings.” Paalam ko at saka pumasok.

---

“Bye. Thanks a lot.” Paalam ko kay Vesper nang makababa ako sa kotse niya.

“Bye. Be safe.” He coldly said bago isara ang bintana ng kotse at umalis sa harapan ko. I looked at his car wondering why he’s acting like that again. Napailing ako. That only started when I told him that my ex wanted my hair long.

Napapangiti akong lumakad papasok sa gate ng mansyon ng Lola at Lolo. He’s acting like a child again. He’s back to his normal behavior.

Nang makapasok ako sa bahay ay umupo agad ako sa sofa sa sala. As usual ay mga katulong lang ang bumati saakin. My grandparents are probably still resting and Owen might be inside his room. Kinuha ko ang selpon ko para sana mag check ng schedule ngunit sobrang ingay ng group chat namin sa basketball team.

HU BASKETBALL TEAM

🏀

Julian ang taas ng hairline:

Let’s have fun tonight! Invite every pretty girls, guys!

Napakunot ang noo ko sa sinabi ni Julian. May ganap ba tonight?

Theo liit:

Kahit lahat ng babae imbitahan ko, walang papatol sayo ’e.

Julian ang taas ng hairline:

Fuck you, Theo. @

Captain Sungit

hindi pwedeng absent ka mamaya!

Elias the wall:

Especially you, @

Princess

don’t miss the celebration tonight. You won that trophy.

Agad akong nagtipa sa sinabi ni Elias. May celebration nga pala kami mamaya for winning against Silang. Kahit elimination round pa lamang iyon, they said it needed to be celebrated bago kami muling maglaro sa semi finals.

Princess:

I’m excited. I miss partying. Invite people!

Reply ko sakanila.

Captain Sungit:

If any of you invite the wrong people, I’ll kill all of you.

Natawa ako nang biglang mag reply si Vesper. Why so grumpy?

I decided to personally message him.

Sullivan:

Captain, is there any motif for tonight’s celebration?

I messaged him at natawa pa ako nang makitang nag seen siya agad.

Vesper:

The motif is to stay away from any men.

Tuluyan akong humalakhak sa sagot niya saakin. Why is he suddenly so jealous? It’s fun seeing him get affected by the little things around me.

Sullivan:

Why so grumpy? Are you mad that Seba was the reason for my long hair?

I decided to tease him a little bit more. Hindi agad siya nag reply ngunit nakikita kong nag t-type siya. I waited for a full minute before he finally decided to reply.

Vesper:

👍

Vesper Magnus Herrera set your

nickname to All Mine.

“HAHAHAHHA!” Malakas kong tawa sa reply at ginawa niya. So fucking territorial for no reason at all. Wala namang lumalandi saakin para gumanto siya. Although I saw some basketball fans shipping me with some other players and men because of the misleading pictures that’s been floating on the internet.

Pero siya lang naman talaga ang may lakas ng loob na landiin ako. Well, Sid is also annoying me but I think he’s only doing that to rival Vesper.

“What are you so happy about?” Nagulat ako nang may magsalita mula sa pinto. At muli akong nagulat nang makita si Owen kasama ang hindi ko inaasahang mga tao. Sid and Isaac. May hawak na mga grocery bag si Isaac at si Sid naman ay nakangiti na agad saakin nang nakakaloko.

“What the hell? Why is he here? And Isaac?” Takang-taka kong tanong.

“I’m asking the same thing, baby.” Malanding ani ni Sid. Sabay kaming napairap ni Owen at napasulyap naman sakaniya si Isaac bago nagsalita habang nakatingin saakin.

“I’m just here to carry sir Owen’s groceries, Sulli.” He said innocently. Nagulat pa ako nang parehong tumingin si Sid at Owen sakaniya na parang namangha pa sa sinabi nito. What’s with them?

“That’s the first time I heard him call someone else’s name other than Vespers.” Sid said like he’s grossed out.

“Bakit pag ako ayaw mo tawagin sa pangalan?” Si Owen naman na parang nagtatampo pa. Napakurap-kurap naman sakanila si Isaac.

“Vex said I should do whatever sir Sulli wants, and he told me to call him by his name. And he’s been visiting the house of Herrera, he’s part of us.” Kumunot ang noo ko sa huling sinabi niya at magtatanong na sana nang sabay na sumigaw si Sid at Owen.

“You’ve been to that house?!” Gulat akong tumingin sakanila nang sabay nilang isigaw iyon na parang nagagalit. I looked at them shock. Owen was looking at me angrily while Sid looks worried.

Totoo ba talagang ako pa lamang ang nakakapunta sa bahay nila Vesper? Not even Owen?

“What? I can’t visit him? What’s wrong?” Tanong ko because they’re acting so weird. Mukhang pati si Isaac ay nagulat sa reaksyon nila.

“What’s wrong?! Do you know how dangerous Vespers’ family is? I told you to stay away!” Pagalit na ani ni Owen. Dumagdag nanaman iyon sa mga tanong ko tungkol kay Vesper.

“You know what, fuck this. Just tell it to me straight, why the hell is his family dangerous? I don’t want to get involved and know but y’all keep talking about it.” Ako naman ang nainis. Talagang kinakain na ako ng curiosity. Napatapik naman sa noo si Owen.

“Gusto mo talagang malaman? Fine, his family is–”

“Sir Owen.” Natigil si Owen nang magsalita si Isaac habang seryosong nakatingin sakaniya. Lahat kami natahimik habang sakaniya lahat nakatingin ngunit bigla siyang ngumiti kay Owen.

It wasn’t a happy genuine smile like he showed me before. It was an eerily creepy smile. His eyes look so serious yet his lips are smiling.

“I’ll get going, I will put the groceries here. Please be mindful of everything you will say to Sulli. Vex might not be happy about it.” Nilagay niya nga sa lamesa sa harap ng sofa ang mga dala niya at saka umalis ng mansyon. Naiwan kaming walang kibo lahat at nag-i-isip.

Napapamura ako sa isip at gusto kong magwala. Everyone is being so weird and secretive around me.

“You know what, I don’t even want to know. I won’t get involved. I promise you that, Owen. It’s better if I know nothing.” Humahangos kong ani.

Is it selfish and dumb to keep it this way because I want to enjoy being with that childish charismatic captain of mine? Is it stupid to crave the thrill and my new found freedom I have whenever I am with him?

If it is, I’ll be stupid and selfish until it lasts. I know it will all come back crashing to my face, but I don’t want to deal with it for now. All my life, this has been the first time I’m actually living it. Like how the saying goes, it’s good while it lasts.

“Fine. Fuck. Let’s go upstairs, Sid.” Owen is upset.

“Wait, I’m still asking why he’s here.” Tanong kong muli. Tumingin sila saaking dalawa. Owen took a glance at Sid who looks confused as I am before answering my question.

“I just want to discuss something with him. Don’t say a word to Ves about this.” Hindi na ako nakakibo pa nang sabay silang umakyat papunta sa kwarto ni Owen. Muli akong napaupo sa sofa at inisip ang mga inaakto nila.

It seems like I really know nothing about everyone around me. Malalim akong napahangos.

This is killing me.

——

Hinubad ko ang suot kong damit habang malalim pa rin ang iniisip. Umuwi na ako ng condo dahil si Owen sana ang pupuntahan ko kanina but he pulled out a random move.

Why is he with Sid? Last time I checked, he hated that fucker.

Napahangos ako at inalis ang lahat ng iniisip.

“Wag mong kakalimutan na hindi ka sasali sa mga drama nila. You are here for the freedom, the happiness, the life you couldn’t get back in Canada.” Seryosong sabi ko sa sarili habang nakatingin sa salamin. I let out a curse before my eyes caught the little figurines I brought before. Lumapit ako roon at napangiti. It’s the little keychain figurines I brought before, it’s my whole team here in the Philippines. Kinuha ko ang saakin at tinitigan iyon.

“Remember to back out if things don’t feel right, Sullivan.” Mahina kong ani. I promise to myself that if I ever need to back out with anything, even if it means this thing between me and Vesper will end. I will gladly do so. I have to.

I have to live my life to the fullest. And I won’t let myself be pulled with their messy antics. I am running with no one, I am my own person. I’m not gonna be pulled with their old flames. I need to remind myself of that every time I feel the urge to know everything about their issues.

Ibinalik ko ang hawak kong keychain at lalakad na sana papasok sa shower room nang may mahagip ang mga mata ko sa loob ng wardrobe ko na nakabukas. Nilapitan ko iyon at may ideyang pumasok sa isip ko.

It’s a wig I had. A short haired wig. Kakulay iyon ng buhok ko because I used it before when I got curious of wearing one. Inaral ko pa talaga paano ilagay iyon sa ulo ko. Naalala ko tuloy ang inakto saakin kanina ni Vesper.

Will he be happy if I cut my hair short? Hmm. I should find out. I will definitely wear this wig later.

——

“Woah! What the hell did you do?” Kakapasok ko pa lamang sa loob ng bahay ni Elias kung saan kami mag c-celebrate ay iyon na agad ang bungad saakin ni Julian. Everyone looked at me and I smiled at them.

“Does it look funny? It doesn’t suit me?” Tanong ko. I’m now wearing the wig and I’m looking for Vesper but looks like he’s late.

“You look good. You look handsome, but I think the long hair suits you the most. Or maybe we were just used to it?” Si Elias na lumapit saakin at sinipat pa ang buhok ko. Agad kong nilayo ang mukha niya dahil baka mahalata niyang wig iyon.

“Doesn’t matter, I already cut it.” Hinanap ko rin si Owen at mukhang wala pa rin siya. Hindi na ako nag isip pa at umupo na ako sa sofa kung saan maraming pagkain at inumin sa mesa. Si Owen at Vesper na lamang ang kulang at wala naman akong makitang ibang tao na inimbitahan nila.

Akala ko ba ay mag i-imbita sila?

“Let’s get drunk and full!”

“Congratulations on winning against Silang!”

“Thank you for letting us win, Sulliii!” Natawa ako nang sunod-sunod silang magsisigaw at sunod niyon ay malakas na musika ang bumalot saamin. Lahat sila ay nag-ingay at sila na rin ang nagbigay ng baso ng alak saakin.

Nakailang baso na ako ng alak nang ayain ako ni Elias sumayaw sa gitna ng sala ng bahay niya. Some of my teammates are already shaking their ass in the middle and I joined their weirdness. Konting indayog lamang ang ginagawa namin habang kung ano-anong biruan ang binabato sa isa’t-isa. I-Ilan sakanila ay hindi talaga makapaniwala sa bago kong buhok. Lalo na si Elias na kanina ko pa iniiwasan ang titig sa buhok ko dahil baka makahalata siya.

Lahat lamang kami natigil nang may humawak sa braso ko at hinila ako paharap sakaniya.

“What the hell, Sullivan?” Gulat akong napatingin kay Vesper nang makitang siya ang humila saakin. I instantly smiled at him but he was looking at me shocked and scared?

“Captain! Do you like my new look?!” I beamed even tho I can tell he’s still shocked. Ilang segundo siyang napatitig saakin bago ako binitawan at nagmamadaling lumabas ng bahay ni Elias. Lahat kami napatingin lamang sakaniya at nakasalubong niya pa si Owen na papasok ng pinto. He also looked at Vesper who disappeared in front of us before he proceeded entering.

Nakita niya ako nang makalapit siya at tumaas ang kilay niya saakin.

“Why are you wearing a wig?” Owen instantly knew because I was with him when I bought this wig. Nag-ingay muli ang mga ka teammates ko nang marinig nila ang sinabi ni Owen.

“It’s a wig?!”

“Niloloko mo naman kami ’e!”

“I knew it. It doesn’t look soft like your natural hair.” Ani ni Elias kaya tinawanan ko lamang sila bago nagpaalam na lalabas para sundan si Vesper. Kahit na medyo lasing na ako ay nakita ko pa rin siya sa madilim na parte ng parking area ng bahay ni Elias. Nakasuot siya ng hoody at nakatalikod sa pwesto ko. Agad ko siyang nilapitan.

“Captain, bakit hindi ka pumasok?” Tanong ko nang makalapit ako. Mas lalo siyang tumalikod saakin imbes na humarap.

“What’s wrong?” Napapangiti na ako sa inaakto niya. Is he really upset that I cut my hair? Ang akala ko ba ay ayaw niya sa mahaba kong buhok?

“Are you mad at me because of my hair?” I teased him.

“Why did you do it?!” Nagulat ako nang bigla siyang suminghal. I chuckled.

“Because you didn’t like it long?” Asar ko pa at doon siya lumingon saakin. Tatawa sana ako ngunit nagulat ako nang makitang basa ang mga mata niya ganon na rin ang mga pisnge niya.

“Are you crying?!” Gulat kong tanong. Umiwas siyang muli ng tingin saakin.

“Because I loved your hair! I love it! You look beautiful with it! I’m obsessed with it and you just cut it short!” Bigla siyang nag tantrum kaya hindi ko na napigilan pa ang tawa ko. Masama siyang tumingin saakin ngunit tawang-tawa pa rin ako sa mga sinabi niya.

“I didn’t know you would cry just because of my hair, damn.” Mas lalong sumama ang tingin niya saakin at kita kong umiiyak pa rin siya. Tears kept streaming down his face but his face just remained upset, eyes are softly glaring at me. His face is not even getting contorted, talagang tumutulo lamang ang mga luha niya habang nakatingin saakin.

Nilapitan ko siya at umiwas pa siya saakin ngunit hinuli ko ang mukha niya gamit ang mga palad ko. I was smiling when I held his face and I stared at his handsomeness.

“I can’t believe I just saw the great Vesper Magnus cry over some hair.” Mahina kong asar at mas lalong tumulo ang mga luha niya habang masama ang tingin saakin.

“I hate you, Sullivan. That was mine, that’s the hair I love. Why would you ever cut it. I don’t care if your stupid ex was the one who wanted it first, you are mine now!” Mahina niya pa rin na singhal at mas lalo lamang akong napangiti. So fucking childish over nothing. So possessive. I really love this side of him sometimes.

“It was my idea to grow it out, Vesper. Seba just told me he loved it and not to cut it.” Ani ko at inis niyang iniwas ang ulo niya saakin. I held his face firmly and I stole a quick kiss on his lips. Napakurap siya saakin at pinunasan ko naman ang mga luha niya.

“But you know what? I was actually about to cut it when I arrived in the Philippines, but a certain someone suddenly and aggressively told me to do it to appear manly, and that became the reason I still kept it long to this day.” Ngiti ko sakaniya at natigilan naman siya bago lumiwanag ang mga mata niya sa sinabi ko.

“To this day? You kept it because I said you should cut it? Then what’s this?” Parang bigla siyang nabuhayan at tiningnan ang buhok ko. He narrowed his eyes on it and he looked at my face surprised.

“Are you wearing a wig?” Gulat niyang tanong ngunit hindi na siya umiiyak pa.

“Yes. I was trying to test if you really hate my hair or not. Soo..” Ngumuso ako at nang-a-asar siyang tiningnan. Nagulat pa ako nang muling tumulo ang mga luha niya at sunod-sunod iyon bago niya ako mahigpit na niyakap.

“Fuck! I thought I lost your lovely hair!” He shouted and sobbed while hugging me. Natawa lamang ako sa inaakto niya. Such a cry baby.

Is this the Vesper Magnus, the evil, dangerous and monstrous man they keep telling me about?

I don’t think I can ever believe that. He’s here crying about my hair. Such a loser.

My loser.

SR

A/N: Time check 2:08 AM. Sa sunod ulit, may exam pa ako bukas grr

Rivalry 35

Vesper’s

“Hm, hmm, hm..” Good mood akong pumasok sa isang resto bar habang may dala-dalang inumin na juice. Napatingin naman agad saakin si Simon at Julian nang maupo ako sa tabi nila. We are meeting here to hang out after last night. This is one of my teammates family resto bar. Binigyan kami ng school ng three days rest for winning against Silang at the elimination round.

“Ayos ah? Good mood ka today?” Pansin ni Simon. Ngumiti naman ako sakaniya nang malaki bago humigop sa hawak kong juice. Natawa silang dalawa saakin.

“Epekto ba yan ng alak kagabi?” Natatawang tanong pa ni Julian. Umiling naman agad ako.

“No way. I didn’t even drink.” Hindi ako uminom dahil inuwi ko agad si Sullivan sa condo niya. And we had a wonderful night together. Muli akong napangisi habang nakatingin sa juice ko. Shit. Kinikilig ba ako?

“Tanginang ngiti yan, babae yan ’no?” Sabi ni Simon at pareho naman kaming inis na tumingin sakaniya ni Julian.

“Anong babae? Hindi ba halatang patay na patay ’to kay Sulli?” Tawa pa ni Julian. Inilapit naman ni Simon ang mukha niya saakin kaya napaatras ako.

“Totoo ba? Akala ko trip mo lang siya. Bading ka pala, Ves?” I looked at him and couldn’t help but laughed because of how serious he looks while saying that.

“I don’t know. I just like Sulli. Bading na ba ako n’on?” Tanong ko pabalik. Well, I don’t know much about the difference of sexual preferences. I’m still naive when it comes to that. Maybe that’s why me and Sulli started at the wrong foot. Napaisip ako. Maybe I should research and find out about it more.

“Siguro? Pero counted ba yun? Ang ganda rin naman kasi talaga ni Sulli. I heard some of the fan girls of our team saying he’s androgynous, something about being pretty and handsome at the same time.” Mahabang sabi ni Simon.

“You mean he has masculine and feminine characteristics blended perfectly well?“Ani pa ni Julian. Napatango-tango ako sa sinasabi nilang dalawa. That’s a way to describe Sullivan. Either way, he’s hot and perfect.

“I don’t care. Gay or not, I like him. He’s mine.” Sabi ko at napapailing-iling naman silang natatawa saakin.

“You are down bad, captain.” Akusa ni Simon pero nagkibit-balikat lamang ako sakaniya. I’m happy with Sulli. I don’t want to lose him. Now I understand why Sulli never cared about people trying to insult him because of his preference, it’s because that’s how he feels naturally and he feels contented about it. If I have someone to tell me that I shouldn’t like Sullivan right now because we are both men, I would probably unleash chaos.

I don’t want that genuine joy and affection away from me. I don’t care about what they will say. Who are they to tell me what to like or not. It’s my life and I will be the one to decide.

“May practice na ba after our rest day?” Tanong ni Julian. Tumango ako.

Semi finals are coming, we are about to be against the Valmora University. After that, sure akong kami ang aabante sa finals. We are going against Silang again. Lihim akong malalim na napahangos.

I hope I will really be present when that time comes. I don’t want to disappoint the team again, especially Sullivan.

“Speaking of, here they come.. with his brother.” I looked outside the resto when Simon said that. Naroon nga si Sullivan na kasama ang kapatid niyang nakaakbay sakaniya. Sa likod nila ay sila Elias, Owen at i-ilan pa naming teammates. Sulli and his brother are chatting happily while walking towards us. Nang makapasok sila ay agad na nagtama ang mga mata namin. He smiled at me and I gave him a grin. Umiling siya at saka umupo sa harapan ko katabi ang kapatid niyang nakatingin rin saakin.

“I saw Sevan on the way here, gusto niya raw sumama kaya isinama ko na.” Paliwanag niya agad dahil hang out talaga ito ng buong team lamang.

“You don’t mind, right?” Nagulat ako nang nagtanong saakin si Sevan habang malalim pa rin ang titig. They all looked at me. Napamura ako sa isip. Ayaw talaga saakin ng kapatid ni Sulli. What did I even do?

“Of course. Why would I?” I awkwardly smiled at them and everyone nodded except Sevan. Nagsimula silang mag usap-usap at ang iba ay nag order na rin ng pagkain dahil mag tanghalian na rin. I couldn’t even sit down beside Sulli because his brother is all over him. I watched them exchange conversations and I can see that they both enjoy each other’s company. They are really close, unlike me and my sister.

“Bathroom break.” Tumayo si Sulli at sinabi iyon. He walked towards the bathroom and I was about to follow when his brother said something again.

“Vesper? Can I talk to you? Alone.” He said with a serious tone and I looked at my teammates when they were all looking at me again like I did something wrong. Fuck. Why do I feel like I really did something to Sevan? The way he talks to me and the way everyone is looking at me feels like I’ve been caught doing something bad.

“S-Sige..” Bago pa ako makasagot ay lumakad na siya palabas ng resto.

“Anong ginawa mo?” Si Owen agad ang nagtanong nang makalabas si Sevan. Pinandilatan ko sila ng mga mata.

“Nothing!”

“Then why is he acting like you did something?” Si Elias na mukhang natatawa pa.

“Meron kasi, nilalandi mo ang kapatid niya ’e.” Si Theo at binatukan ko naman siya.

“Tell Sullivan to save me when he comes back.” Utos ko bago sumunod kay Sevan na nasa labas na at nakatayo roon. I walked towards him and stopped beside him. He looked at me and he immediately started talking.

“You told your little friend to stalk me. Why is that?” Nagulat ako sa sinabi niya at napakurap pa ako sa mukha niya. He doesn’t look upset but actually just curious.

“What?” Wala agad akong naisip sabihin.

“Isaac, that’s his name. Right?” Hindi agad ako nakapagsalita. I did tell Isaac to follow him around to keep him safe from Sid. But I didn’t know he’s still doing it. I told him to stop when he sees that Sid isn’t doing something.

Why is Isaac still following him around?

“He’s still following you?” Hindi ko napigilang tanong. Tumaas naman ang kilay niya kaya agad akong nagpaliwanag kung bakit ko iyon inutos kay Isaac. He listened to me casually until I finished.

“You think I can’t protect myself from that bastard Sid?” Now he looks upset. Hindi ako nakasagot. What can I even say that won’t anger him? He already dislike me from the very start and then he got to know what I did. How did Isaac even got caught?

“Don’t ever think of meddling with my life again, Vesper. I’m going to let you off this time– “ I got excited at what he said.

“You won’t tell Sullivan?” Tanong ko dahil ayokong malaman ito ni Sulli. He might also get angry with me for being nosy.

“No. Not if you give me your butler’s number.” Iniabot niya saakin ang kanina niya pa hawak na selpon. I looked at it and to his face.

“What? Why?” Why does he need Isaac’s number?

“Relax. I’m not going to do anything to him. I just think he’s kinda pretty.” He casually said again. Napakurap akong muli. I just realized that him and Sulli are so much different despite their almost identical faces.

Ibinigay ko nga ang number ni Isaac sakaniya. I’ll just explain it to Isaac later.

“Thanks.” Natigilan pa ako nang sabihin iyon ni Sevan habang nakangiting nakatingin sa selpon niya.

“Tell my brother I had to go, I have a sudden work.” He said without looking at me and walked away. I just watched him disappear while still thinking of why he really wanted my butler’s number.

Isaac has something he’s not telling me.

——

Sulli’s

Naghugas ako ng kamay after kong umihi. After that, I looked at my phone that keeps buzzing since earlier. Umagang-umaga ay text nang text saakin si Sid. Muli kong binasa ang mga messages niya.

From: Sid Llano

Meet me? I want to tell you something. About your lovely Captain.

Aren’t you curious? You saw how he lost himself while we were playing. You should be.

I can tell you everything, Sulli.

Napahangos ako nang malalim. Just when I’m trying myself not to be curious, he keeps annoying me like this. Itatago ko na sana ang selpon ko nang mag ring iyon. Inis kong sinagot ang tawag niya.

“Texting me isn’t enough anymore? Can you fucking stop? You heard me, I don’t wanna know.” Ani ko na ang tinutukoy ay iyong naging usapan namin ni Owen habang naroon siya.

“I know, but you should know. You are curious, but you are scared.” Humigpit ang hawak ko sa selpon.

“Why do you care so much? You think I will believe anything you will say about Vesper?” I mocked him. Narinig ko siyang mahinang natawa sa kabilang linya.

“Oh baby, it’s not my words that you are gonna believe. I will let you use your eyes and see the truth.” Kumunot ang noo ko sa sinabi niya. Gusto ko sanang magtanong pero pinigilan ko ang sarili ko.

“Sid, curiosity kills the cat. I believe that saying, so please just stop annoying me.” Singhal ko sakaniya.

“You got that all wrong, baby. The full idiom is ‘Curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back’.” He chuckled and I rolled my eyes before ending the call. Why is he being so persistent all of a sudden?

Nag text pa siya kaya muli ko iyong tiningnan.

Don’t you want that satisfaction?

Inis kong itinago ang selpon ko sa bulsa ng suot kong pants bago lumabas ng bathroom na iyon. Bumalik ako sa table namin at nakita kong wala na ang kapatid ko pati si Vesper. I looked outside and I saw Vesper already walking towards us.

“Where’s Sevan?” Tanong ko kay Owen.

“Hinatid ko lang sa labas, he said he has a sudden work to attend to.” Si Vesper na ang sumagot saakin nang makalapit siya. He sat beside me and handed me the menu card.

“Let’s eat, after this, I’m going to treat you all to the mall.” Sabi niya at naghiyawan naman ang mga loko. I shook my head and scanned the menu. Pumili lang ako ng makakain habang malalim ang iniisip.

I can’t get what Sid said out of my mind.

Half of the people around me don’t want me to fully know Vesper, and the other half is also eagerly trying to let me know.

I’m really losing my mind right now. I’m trying not to get involved, but it seems like that’s impossible.

Ilang oras pa kami sa resto bar na iyon. We were laughing and teasing each other like there’s no tomorrow. My heart felt contentment that I have never felt before.

Maya-maya lang ay nagkaayan na kami pumunta sa mall. Balak naming mag cine. May bago raw palabas na gustong panuorin ang mga loko. Sumusunod lang naman ako sakanila habang katabi ko si Vesper na nakaakbay saakin.

“You look lost.” Natigilan ako nang mahina iyong sabihin ni Vesper habang naglalakad kami. “Are you okay?” Dagdag niya pa.

“Yeah, of course. I’m just a little tired.” Pagsisinungaling ko.

“From last night?” Ngisi naman niya saakin. I rolled my eyes at him and was about to tease him back when someone from our team shouted.

“Takbo! Dudukutin tayo!” Dahil nasa likod kami ni Vesper ay nakita namin kung pano nagkagulo ang grupo namin na nasa unahan. Taranta silang sinubukang tumakbo ngunit agad na may humabol sakanilang mga nakaitim na shirt. Hindi agad ako nakapag react nang magsimula silang manlaban.

“Shit! What the hell is happening?” Agad akong hinila ni Vesper sa likod niya at lumapit rin saamin si Owen at Elias na halatang nagtataka sa nangyayari ngunit nakaabang para manlaban sa mga hindi namin kilalang grupo ng mga lalaki. Galing sila sa dalawang malaking van na pumarada sa harapan namin, hindi ko iyon napansin kanina dahil nag-u-usap kami ni Vesper.

“They look like foreigners!” Si Elias kaya agad ko namang pinagmasdan ang mga lalaking pilit na dinadakip ang mga ka teammates kong pinagsisisipa sila. I know this is a serious situation but I couldn’t help but almost laugh because of the way they are resisting. Para silang mga batang nakikipaglaro ng patentero at habulan. I don’t even think they are taking whatever is happening seriously.

“No, shit.” Pareho kaming napamura ni Owen nang makilala namin ang mga lalaking sinusubukan kaming dukutin. We looked at each other with widened eyes. Magsasalita na sana ako nang may mauna saakin.

“Settle down. Settle down, kids.” Pareho kaming nanigas ni Owen sa kinatatayuan nang marinig ang boses na iyon. Agad kong hinanap ang nagsalita at nagtama agad ang mga mata namin. Natigil nga sila sa kaguluhan nang makita rin nila kung sino ang nagsalita.

“Sino yan?”

“He looks so much like Sulli.” Napapikit ako at agad na sinamaan ng tingin ang magaling kong ama na ngayon ay palapit na sa kinatatayuan ko.

“My dear son, I finally found you in this big shitty city.” Malaki ang ngisi niyang sabi. Tumingin siya kay Owen na agad na lumapit sakaniya at nag mano.

“Tito..” Bati ni Owen. Takot siya sa ama ko, I don’t even know why.

“Owen, it’s been so long since I saw that face.” Balik bati sakaniya ni Dad.

“Papa ni Sul? Pareho ang mukha, pero malaki katawan nito.” Narinig ko pa ang ilan sa teammates ko. Napairap ako at lumapit kay Dad.

“Why are you making a mess? Why are you making your men kidnap us? And why the hell are you here?” Lahat ata sila ay nabigla nang pasinghal ko iyong itanong sa sarili kong ama. They were all a little bit shocked but not my father who immediately pulled me into a tight embraced.

“I miss you too, my dearest. I came here to bring you home.” My father said with the sweetest voice. But it only made me scared.

Fuck. He’s really here to come get me. I knew it.

SR

Rivalry 36

Sulli’s

“You shouldn’t be here!” I yelled as I was dragged by my father’s men inside the resto bar we just came out earlier. Gusto niya sana kaming dalhin sa mansyon ng lolo at lola pero lahat kami ay nagpumiglas kaya ngayon ay dito niya kami kinaladkad. Kung kanina ay desidido ang teammates ko na labanan sila, ngayon ay parang nagdadalawang isip sila nang makita si Dad.

I know his authority, kahit maamo ang mukha niya katulad ko ay iba siya tumindig at napapasunod niya ang gusto niyang mapasunod.

“And you shouldn’t be wasting your life here.” My father once again spoke with his calm voice but full of authority. Lahat sila ay nakatingin saaming dalawa. Vesper was pushed back and isn’t on my side anymore ngunit nakita ko siyang pinagmamasdan ang ama ko sa likod nila Owen. Nakakumpol kami ngayon sa resto bar nila Donny na kinakausap ngayon ang mga staff nila dahil mukhang naalarma ang mga ito sa dami namin.

“Your ticket is booked, you are coming back to Canada.” My father’s words came out as a command, not a request. Hindi na iyon bago saakin. I snickered at him and met his eyes with a cold stare.

“You are still doing that? Deciding things for me like I don’t have a life here?” I don’t care if everyone is looking at me right now. Hindi ko maatim na basta-basta na lang siya susunod saakin dito at kokontrolin nanaman ang buhay ko. I’m done with that. I literally flew here to escape from that.

“Sullivan, you had a life in Canada. You chose to abandon it.” Natawa ako sa sinabi niya. Nilapitan ko siya habang matalas pa rin ang mga tingin.

“No. I escaped it. I’m not coming back from that hell hole for you to lock me up again!” Hindi ko napigilang tumaas ang boses at mukhang lahat sila ay natigilan roon. I know they are probably figuring out what kind of relationship I have with my father for me to say all of this and act like this. But I’m scared. Scared that my father will take my freedom again.

Pinakatitigan ako ng ama ko bago ko naramdaman ang hawak niya sa braso ko. Mahigpit iyon ngunit hindi sa paraan na masasaktan ako.

“You are coming back with me. I’m not asking.” Pinal niyang ani habang seryoso ang mga tingin saakin. I was about to lash out again when I was interrupted.

“He said he’s not going.” I looked at Vesper who walked towards us and stood beside me. Ayaw ko man na makialam siya ay gumaan ang pakiramdam ko nang sa wakas ay mag magsalita rin sakanila. Not even Owen can say something.

Inaasahan kong magagalit sakaniya si Dad ngunit natigilan ako nang makita ang mukha niya habang nakatingin kay Vesper. Mukhang nagtaka rin ito kung paano siya titigan ngayon ng ama ko.

My father was looking at him like he’s seeing a ghost. He looks shocked and confused.. and am I seeing fear? Never in my life I’ve seen my father have that emotion in his eyes. I must be seeing things.

“That’s not possible..” My father finally said with a shaken voice. Nagkatinginan kami ni Owen at ganon na rin si Vesper sa pagtataka. Why is he suddenly acting like this? Mas lalo akong nagtaka.

“What?” Vesper asked.

“Why are you looking at him like that?” Ako naman ang nagtanong. Hindi niya ako pinansin at lumakad siya palapit kay Vesper.

“What’s your name?” My father tried to composed himself again and asked Vesper.

“Why does it matter?” Vesper said with a confused face.

“Answer me.” My father commanded and Vesper looked away before answering.

“Vesper Magnus.. Herrera.” Vesper answered hesitantly. I watched my father exhaled a deep breath.

“You look exactly like him, kid. Hm, what a small world we live in.” My father was finally back in his usual self but I saw the interest in his eyes while looking at Vesper. Kumunot ang noo naming lahat sa tinuran niya.

“Exactly like who?” Ako ang nagtanong. My father looked at me and to Vesper again. Ilang ulit niya iyong ginawa bago siya mahinang natawa. I was just looking at him full of confusion. Kahit kailan ay hindi ko siya nakitang ganito noon.

“He looks exactly like his father. Do you know his father, my dearest?” Lahat kami ay nagtaka sa sinabi niya. I was so confused that he knows his father. Pati si Vesper ay napalapit sakaniya dahil sa gulat.

“You know my father?” Gulat na tanong ni Vesper. My father slowly walked towards me and caressed my hair before answering Vesper with a smile.

“I’m sure I knew him more than you do, son.” He said with a smile before shaking his head. “It’s such a shame you had his face, I just want to rip it off of your skull right now.” Lahat kami ay naalarma nang subukan niyang lumapit kay Vesper.

Mabilis kong tinulak si Vesper palayo sakaniya at lumapit rin ang lahat ng teammates namin. They didn’t say anything but they stood behind us in support. My father immediately looked at me. He stared at the hands I used to push Vesper and I knew he already analyzed what’s going on.

“You are surrounding yourself with the wrong people, Sullivan.” Makahulugan niyang sabi habang pabalik-balik ang tingin saaming dalawa. I knitted my eyebrows at him.

“Wrong people? That’s alright. As long as I’m not surrounded by you, father.” Pagmamatigas ko. My curiosity is eating me up right now, pero hinding-hindi ako magtatanong sakaniya. I want him to go back to Canada immediately. His presence is really shaking every nerve cells inside my body. And I’m not trusting anything he’s saying. My father is very manipulative and a liar. I learned that the hard way.

“You will come back with me.” Muling tumigas ang boses niya.

“No.” I shook my head.

“Then I will make sure you have nothing to stay for.” Seryoso niya pa rin na sabi.

“Dad!” Sigaw ko sa mukha niya. Humangos siya at sinenyasan ang mga tao niya na lumabas ng resto kung nasaan kami. Inayos niya ang sarili bago tumalikod saakin.

“I’ll be waiting at your grandmother’s house.” Lumakad siya palabas sa pinto ng resto ngunit bago iyon ay muli siyang humarap saamin. He looked directly to Vesper.

“Tell your father.. that some debts don’t disappear.” Aniya kay Vesper na agad nagtanong.

“What debts?” Vesper asked with a sharp tone.

“He will know.” Tuluyang lumabas ang ama ko at naiwan kaming tahimik nang matagal.

We were all registering what the hell just happened especially me. Hindi lang niya ako sinusubukang kunin nanaman, he also knows Vesper’s father na noon pa man ay misteryo na saakin.

Bakit ganon? Why do I feel like his father plays a bigger role in my life when I don’t even know him?

“Do you know anything about that?” Si Owen ang unang nagsalita. Vesper shook his head.

“I don’t even know how he knows my father.” Mahinang sabi ni Vesper bago tumingin saakin nang nagtatanong. I shook my head at him.

“How would I know? This is also a shock to me.” Sagot ko sa nagtatanong niyang mukha. Umiling naman siya at lumapit saakin.

“No, I’m not asking about that. Kinukuha ka niya, are you really going back to Canada?” Hinawakan niya ang braso ko.

“I don’t have any reason to go back to that hell hole, Ves. No, I’m not.” Sabi ko kahit na nag-a-alala ako sa gagawin ng ama ko kung sakaling hindi niya makuha ang gusto niya.

I should talk to him later. Properly talk to him. Masiyado akong nawindang sa pagsunod niya saakin dito sa Pilipinas. Lalo na at sinubukan niyang damputin kanina ang mga ka teammates ko.

“Your father is really scary, Sulli.” Julian suddenly said.

“Lagi ba kayong ganon? Kinokontrol ka niya?” Si Simon. Napatango ako.

“That’s the main reason I came here. To get away from him.” Pag-amin ko sakanila. Lahat naman sila ay natahimik at mukhang nag-i-isip. Ganon rin kami ni Vesper na matagal nagkatinginan. He looks worried and so am I.

——

Vesper’s

“Vex.” I looked at Isaac who was waiting for me. Tinawagan ko siya kanina habang pauwi ako ng bahay. I need him to do something.

“Dig everything about Sullivan’s family. His father to be exact.” Utos ko bago umupo sa sofa. I stared at nothing while thinking of what happened earlier. After what happened, Sulli said we should go home and he will talk to his father sincerely. He’s afraid he will do something to us because he threatened to do so.

“Sullivan’s father?” Mukhang nagtaka si Isaac. I nodded at him.

“He knows my father.” And I know he does not only know him, he knows him more than I do. He said so himself. He’s talking about debts and I know it’s not about money.

“Vex..” I looked at Isaac when he called me with hesitation. Nakatingin siya saakin ngayon nang seryoso bago pinagpatuloy ang pagsasalita.

“Even if I find something, you know I wouldn’t tell you.” Natigilan ako sa sinabi niya bago ko napagtanto ang gusto niyang iparating.

Right, he was sent by my father. Technically, he’s still working for him. Isaac is a loyal dog to my father. He’s been doing his job so good that I can’t believe I actually thought of him as a friend that will help me with anything. But there’s limitations to that, he’s only serving me because of my father.

“Fine. I’ll do it myself.” Tumayo ako at dumeretso sa taas kung nasaan ang kwarto ko. My mind is a mess again but when was it not? Mas apektado lang ako ngayon dahil kasali rito si Sulli.

I can’t help but to think that there’s more to our connection than I thought. And I don’t want that, I don’t like the feeling I am having right now.

I want our connection to stay genuine and innocent like what we thought it is. I don’t want him to have any connection with my evil father.

Pero mukhang malabo ang gusto kong mangyari. Life will never be on my side. Never.

But I was raised no quitter.

Pagkapasok ko sa kwarto ay agad kong binuksan ang selpon ko at may tinawagan roon. It didn’t took long for him to answer my calls.

“Magnus?” I heard him say on the other line. Mukhang kinukumpirma kung ako nga ito. It’s been a long time since I contacted him.

“I need your help. I want you to find out something for me.” Deretso kong sabi sa gusto kong magyari. Ilang segundo siyang natahimik bago ako sinagot.

“You came to the right person, Herrera.”

——

Sevan’s

“Then take it back! Take back what you just said earlier!” Kakapasok ko pa lamang sa mansyon ng lolo at lola ay boses na agad ng kapatid ko ang aking narinig. Malakas ang boses niya at halatang galit.

I saw Owen peeking at the room where my brother is probably at.

“What’s going on?” I asked. Alam kong ang kausap niya ay ang magaling naming ama dahil sinabihan ako nitong ngayon siya darating ng Pilipinas. But I don’t know why they’re fighting.

“Tito Stevan threatened the team because Sulli doesn’t want to go back in Canada.” Hindi ako tiningnan ni Owen ngunit sinagot niya ako. Sumilip rin ako sa loob ng kwarto kung nasaan ang kapatid ko at ang magaling kong ama.

My father is seated and sipping on a glass of alcohol while my brother is hovering over him. Mukhang malalim ang iniisip ng ama ko habang nagpupuyos sa galit ang kapatid ko.

“You know I meant everything I say. Sit down and calm yourself, I’m thinking of what to do with your disobedience.” Malumanay na sagot ng ama ko. Kung ako ang kausap niya ay baka mabura niya ako sa mundo kung sisigawan ko siya. But if Sullivan does it, he would even try to calm him down.

“Dad! I will never go back in there. Tanggapin mo na lang iyon, please? Stop making everything complicated.” Pakikiusap ni Sulli.

“And I’m telling you, I’m thinking about it. Sit the hell down.” May diin na sabi ni Dad. Pareho kaming nagulat ni Sulli sa sinabi niya. He’s going to think about it? What does that mean?

“Really?” My brother is full of hope again. Tumango si Dad sakaniya.

“Yes.” Maikling sagot niya. Napatitig naman sakaniya si Sullivan na may pagdududa. Ganon rin ako at si Owen.

“Is this about Vesper? Anong alam mo sa ama niya, dad?” Kumunot ang noo ko sa tinuran ng kapatid ko. Tinapik ko si Owen.

“What is he saying?” I asked.

“Tito Stevan said he knows Vesper’s father. Tito is talking about some debt he didn’t repay him.” Kibit-balikat ni Owen ngunit halata rin ang pagtataka sakaniya. Mas lalo naman akong naguluhan.

What debt? And is it really the reason why my father is thinking of letting my brother stay here?

Why?

Hindi ko na narinig pa ang usapan ng kapatid ko at ama dahil sa pagtataka.

I have a bad feeling about this.

SR

Rivalry 37

Sulli’s

“Slow down– Vesper!” Napapaungot kong sinaway si Vesper na ayaw ako tantanan. We are here at my condo and we’ve been doing it since he came to visit, and that was yesterday!

“Sullii.. you’re so tight, baby.” Ungot niya rin habang patuloy ang paglabas-masok niya saakin. Napapaungot ko siyang sinisiko dahil naka sideways ako ngayon sakaniya at nasa likod ko siya. He’s spooning me while his massive dick is inside me.

Pagod na ako dahil inumaga na kami pero hindi pa rin siya matigil. After the confrontation with my father that happened two days ago, hindi na umalis si Vesper sa condo ko. And he keeps screwing me!

“Shit! I told you to slow down! Fuck!” Muli kong ungot at napapahawak na ako nang mahigpit sa bedsheet dahil sa lalim ng inaabot niya at sobrang bilis pa ng loko. It’s like he’s letting out his frustrations on my ass!

“Sul.. fuck. Sulli..” He keeps calling my name while he’s nibbling on my nape. Hindi pa rin mapatid ang mga ulos niya at mas lalo iyong nagiging marahas. Nakagat ko ang labi ko at gusto ko siyang murahin ngayon dahil sa ginagawa niya.

I feel so sore already but it’s too good. I don’t know if I hate it or love it! He knows how to fuck me nice. All of my spots are getting stimulated by his massive dick. Malaki iyon kaya punong-puno ako. I feel so good, not only because of his dick but his muscular body is also pressing against me. Masarap iyon sa pakiramdam. He’s so big compared to me.

“Magnus.. fuck, Ves! Oh!” Ungol ko sa sarap niyon. Halos kalahating oras niya pa ako hindi tinigilan hanggang sa wakas ay pareho kaming labasan. I almost lost my mind while cumming for I don’t know how many times already.

Nanghihina at hingal akong napataob sa kama at naramdaman kong tinakpan niya ang katawan ko ng kumot bago ako niyakap.

“That was so good.” Hingal niya rin na ani bago ako halik-halikan sa pisnge. I glared at him.

“I feel so fucking sore, fuck you.” Mura ko at natatawa naman siyang hinalikan ako sa labi.

“Sorry. I feel stressed, I need to let it out one way or another.” He softly said while staring at my face. Inayos niya ang magulo kong buhok habang tinitingnan ako na parang napaka importante kong bagay. I looked away before speaking. Malulunod ata ako sa mga titig niya saakin.

“What are you stressing about?” I asked. I saw his red lips twitched before answering me.

“About your father taking you away from me.” Napapikit ako sa sinagot niya saakin.

Fuck it. He sounds so fucking genuine. I’m getting scared.

Is he falling in love with me? He sounds so sincere and he looks at me with those sparkly eyes that I only see with innocent kids.

Natatakot akong mahulog siya saakin nang ganito. Because if he ever does, hindi malayong ganon rin ako.

I took a peek at him and he’s still staring at my face. I also stared back and I couldn’t help but admire him. He looks so handsome and hot. A big muscular guy leaning over me, looking at me with pure admiration while he’s freaking butt naked. His face has no flaws, the most handsome man I have ever seen.

Hindi malayong mahulog rin ako sakaniya nang tuluyan. And it’s making me so scared.

If I ever fall in love with him, damay ako sa lahat ng sabit niya. And he has a lot of them. His life is so complicated.

“What did your father say?” Muli siyang nagtanong kaya iniwas ko nang tuluyan ang mga tingin ko.

“He said he’s going to think about it, about me staying here. Pero sa tingin ko ay gusto niya talaga akong umuwi ng Canada.” I guess that’s the only reason why my father is still here in the Philippines. He loves Canada so much that he rather not stay here, but he is and I don’t exactly know why.

“You think? Sasama ka sakaniya? How about me?” Natawa ako sa tanong niya. I looked at his face that’s sulking.

“What about you?” Balik tanong ko. Napanguso siya at muling inayos ang ilang hibla ng buhok kong napunta sa mukha ko.

“You are going to leave your captain?” I blinked at what he said.

“No. I told you, I’m not going back in there. Wala naman akong rason para bumalik pa roon.” Seryoso kong sagot at ngumiti naman siya saakin. Napatitig lamang ako roon.

“I’m glad I met you, Sulli.” Napairap ako sa sinabi niya.

“You weren’t. Last time I checked, you hated me the first time you saw me.” Biro ko dahil masiyado siyang nagiging sentimental at seryoso.

“Hindi totoo ’yan ah. Ngiting-ngiti kaya ako nung una kitang makita, natunaw pa ang puso ko nang ngumiti ka at makita ko ang dimples mo.” Nakanguso niyang kwento. Tumaas ang kilay ko sa sinabi niya.

“Really? Hindi ’yan ang naalala ko.” Bwelta ko naman kahit naalala ko nga na nakangiti siya noong una ko siyang masilayan. He chuckled and gave me a peck on the lips.

“I was just shocked to find out you weren’t a girl, akala ko ’e.” I rolled my eyes at him.

“You must love girls.” I said to continue the conversation. Napapanguso naman siyang napatango.

“I do. That’s why I almost lost my mind when I started having feelings for you.” Hindi ko napigilang mapangiti sa sinabi niya.

“You can still like girls while liking guys, it’s called bisexual.” Ani ko at napatango naman siya.

“Yeah. I did some research and found that out.” Tango-tango niya. Mas lalo akong napangiti. He did some research about sexualities? It’s so hard to imagine someone like him does that. My immature and loser captain, googling about being gay. Natawa ako sa sariling naisip.

“It must have been hard to accept that you have the hots for me.” I teased him. Napangiwi naman siyang napatango.

“It was. Maybe that’s why I resorted into being an asshole to you.” Ngiwi niya kaya napahalakhak ako.

“You are such a loser.” Asar ko pa at tumaas naman ang kilay niya saakin ngunit kita sa mga labi niya na napapangiti siya.

“Loser pala ah.” He started tickling me and I almost lost air by laughing. Hanggang sa nauwi nanaman kami sa kalokohan niya. From tickling to fucking me again!

——

Vesper’s

I

watch

Sullivan run across the gymnasium. He’s practicing with some of our teammates while the others are sitting with me at the sidelines, just watching them and talking about random things.

Hindi ko maalis ang mga mata ko sakaniya. He looks flawless even when he’s sweating at halatang napapagod na. Gulo-gulo na ang mahaba niyang buhok na kanina ay maayos na nakatali ngunit halos mahubad na ngayon, namumula na rin ang pisnge at i-ilang parte ng katawan niya dahil siguro sa init. He’s really beautiful, I can’t believe he’s mine. And I will make sure it stays that way.

“Baka matunaw ang pinsan ko.” I looked at Owen when he suddenly said that.

“Shut up.” I chuckled at him but he just rolled his eyes at me. Tinapik ko siya sa balikat.

“C’mon, don’t tell me you’re still mad at me because I’m with Sulli.” Seryoso kong sabi dahil hanggang ngayon ay nanlalamig pa rin siya saakin. He’s really mad.

“Well yeah, because you promised that you won’t touch him. And who are you fooling? You and Sulli are not together.” He said with a stern face.

“Yet. Not yet together. Look, I’m sorry. I really am sorry for not standing up with what I’ve promised. But can you blame me? Sullivan is something else.” Wala akong ibang masabi kundi iyon. I want to tell him that I tried, tried so hard to fight it off but I just can’t resist Sullivan. I can’t help but crave him like he’s an oxygen. Hindi ko iyon masabi kay Owen dahil babatukan niya lamang ako and he will call it bullshit. It’s cheesy, I know. But it’s what I truly feel.

“You think you can be with him? Tito Stevan will not approved of you, Ves. Not even in your dreams. Kung si Sebastian nga na isa sa mga paborito niyang tao, hindi nakatagos sakaniya. Ikaw pa kaya? And we now both know he has some history with your evil father, what are you gonna do? You think you can still pull this off?” Galit at mahaba niyang litanya. Napatitig ako sakaniya dahil seryosong-seryoso siya. Napasinghay ako.

“First, I don’t need anyone’s approval. Second, whatever history he has with my father, it will remain a history. I will make sure it won’t affect us, so yes. I will pull this off.” Matigas kong sabi kahit na may duda rin ako sa sariling sinabi.

Can I really pull this off?

Kung kagustuhan lang, I do want to pull it off. But can I really do it?

I guess I have to do it no matter what.

“’Yan ang problema sayo, Vesper. Kahit noon pa man, you are so full of yourself. And you will suddenly get shock if something happens that’s so out of your control. Ganon rin ang nangyari kay Jadeline—” I glared at him when he started mentioning names I don’t want to hear. Tumigil siya ngunit halata rin ang galit sa mga mata niya.

“What are you so fucking worried about? You are so stress about something that’s not gonna happen. You better stop, Owen.” Seryoso kong banta sakaniya. He stared at me for a moment before scoffing.

“You better forget about our friendship if something happens with my cousin, Vesper. Don’t tell me I didn’t say so.” May diin niyang ani bago tumalikod saakin. Sinundan ko siya ng tingin at lumabas siya ng gymnasium. Ilang ulit akong napakurap at napalunok dahil sa biglaang bigat sa dibdib ko.

Am I really being selfish for keeping Sullivan near me?

“What’s wrong with Owe?” Tanong ni Elias na lumapit saakin. Nagkibit-balikat ako.

“I don’t know at this point, Elias.” Napapahangos kong sagot sakaniya at napakunot noo lang naman siya.

“Let’s buy some refreshments. Sulli said he wants some soda.” I looked at Sulli who’s still practicing.

“Alright.” Ani ko at sabay kaming lumakad palabas ng gymnasium. Sumama rin saamin si Simon na may bibilhin rin daw. Dumeretso kami sa labas lamang ng campus para bumili ng mga inumin para sa buong team. Medyo natagalan kami dahil marami ang in-order namin kaya bumili na rin kami ng meryenda sa harap lang ng gate ng University.

Habang naghihintay sa order namin ay tumambay muna kaming tatlo sa lilim sa harap ng tindahan. We were talking about random things when I saw a black van that seems familiar. Mukha iyong isa sa mga van na gamit ng ama ni Sullivan. Ang akala ko ay papasok iyon sa campus dahil tumigil ito sa harap ng gate pero bumukas ang pinto ng kotse at may lumabas na matangkad na foreigner. Kunot-noo siyang tumingin sa pangalan ng University namin sa itaas ng gate bago lumakad palapit sa guard na nakabantay roon.

I couldn’t get my eyes off of him because he looks familiar.

Where have I seen that face?

“New enrollee?” Si Simon na nakatingin rin sa foreigner na ngayon ay kinakausap na ang guard. Umalis na ang humatid sakaniyang van. Kinukutoban ako sa humatid sakaniya but I didn’t overthink much. I know Sulli won’t go back to Canada.

“Hindi pa naman enrollment. Baka transferee.” Ani ni Elias.

“Bagay siyang maging basketball player. Ang tangkad at maskulado. Pogi pa.” Pabirong sabi ni Simon.

“Bading.” Asar ko sakaniya at saka naman kami tinawag ng tindera sa binilhan namin. We took our order and walked towards the campus again.

Lumakad ulit kami sa quadrangle papunta sa main entrance ng gymnasium. Nang makapasok ay nakita kong nakaupo na si Sullivan sa bleachers at nagpupunas ng pawis.

“Ayan na inumin!” Sigaw nila Arlo. Napatingin naman saamin si Sulli at nakita kong nakatingin siya sa direksiyon ko. I smiled at him and I saw his face lit up in excitement. Napangiti ako roon ngunit nagtaka rin dahil bukod sa excitement, I also saw confusion in his face but still delighted. Tumayo pa siya at mabilis na lumakad palapit saakin.

“Captain!” He beamed before running towards me. I was about to chuckle at sasalubungin ko sana siya dahil mukhang miss na miss niya naman ako ngunit may malalim na boses ang umalingawngaw sa loob ng gym at lumagpas saakin si Sulli.

“Sulli!” A baritone voice called his name with excitement. I watched Sulli run towards the man behind me. Ito iyong lalaking nakita namin kanina sa labas ng gate. The two of them were grinning from ear to ear and my jaw almost dropped when the guy expanded his arms like he’s going to hug Sulli. Mas lalo akong nainis nang iyon nga ang mangyari. They greeted each other with a tight embrace. Sobrang higpit niyon na halos mahulog ko ang hawak kong mga inumin habang nakatingin sakanilang dalawa.

“Did he just call him ‘Captain’?” Elias finally said and that made my eyes twitch. He freaking did!

Ngayon ay naalala ko na kung saan ko nakita ang pagmumukha nitong foreigner. Doon sa poster ni Sulli na may bangs siya at nakasuot siya ng pambabae, kasama niya roon ang buong team niya sa Canada. Ito iyong lalaking nakaakbay sakaniya roon.

So this is his former Captain?

Why the fuck are they hugging so tight like they miss each other so much?

“Why are you here?!” Sulli once again beamed when they finally let go of their tight embrace. Halos mawala na pareho ang mata nilang dalawa sa kakangisi sa isa’t-isa. Lalo naman humihigpit ang hawak ko sa mga binili namin kanina. Kulang na lang ay maibato ko iyon sa lalaking kaharap ni Sullivan.

“Why? Because I fucking miss my ace player!” Sabi ng loko-loko at inakbayan at ginulo pa niya ang buhok ni Sullivan na mukhang wala ng ibang napapansin kundi ang lalaking iyon.

Old motherfucker crusty former captain. What the fuck is he doing here?

SR

A/N: I smell jalosi

Rivalry 38

Vesper’s

“Tangina. Mabubutas na ang bungo ng tinititigan mo, Ves.” Tinawanan ako ni Julian habang pare-pareho kaming nakatingin kay Sullivan at sa bisita niyang ang pangalan daw ay Rowan.

Pinakilala niya ito saamin kanina pagkatapos ay nagpaalam na mag c-catch up daw sila. They entered the Haraya cafe at nasa labas naman kami sa isang lilim ng puno kaharap ng cafe at pinagmamasdan silang dalawang magtawanan sa loob habang nagkakape. They look so fucking happy and so out of this world. Para silang walang napapansin kundi ang isa’t-isa. Ang laki ng ngiti ng loko kay Sulli. Hindi na ata nawala ang ngisi niya simula pa kanina.

“Hindi ba siya nangangalay kakangisi?” Hindi ko mapigilang inis na masabi. Natawa naman sila. Halos buong team kami sa lilim ng puno at pinagtitinginan na kami ng mga dumadaan dahil sa dami namin ditong nakaupo sa damuhan.

“Hindi na nga mabura ang ngisi ’e.” Pasinghay naman ni Simon.

“Is he here to take back Sulli?” Mahina namang sabi ni Elias.

“Asa, boi. Atin na si Sulli, bakit pa niya kukunin?” Binato ni Jim ang maliit na batong hawak niya sa dereksyon ng cafe.

“Hindi naman siguro, ang sabi miss lang daw niya ’e. Baka binibisita lang.” Donny was being positive.

“Ganon na rin ’yon. Ikaw ba pag miss mo, ayaw mo mapasayo ulit?” Jim retorted. Umiinit naman ang ulo ko sa mga pinagsasasabi nila.

“Tikim lang, hindi ko na binabalikan.” Sagot pa ulit ni Donny at ako na ang bumatok sakaniya.

“Kamao ko gusto mo matikman?” Singhal ko at napapanguso naman siyang lumayo saakin.

“Hindi naman si Sulli titikman ko ’e.” Si Simon naman ang bumatok sakaniya dahil sa sagot niya. Napailing ako. Mga damuho.

“What if he’s really here to take Sulli? What are you gonna do, Ves?” Tanong saakin ni Theo. Naalala ko naman kung anong sasakyan kanina ang humatid sa lokong foreigner na kausap ni Sulli. I’m sure na galing siya sa ama ni Sul. Baka isa ito sa mga paraan niya para ibalik si Sulli sa Canada.

“Sulli said it himself, he doesn’t have any reason to go back there. I don’t need to do anything.” Kinalma ko ang sarili ko at pilit na binura ang inis sa dibdib at ulo ko. Gusto kong magwala at magpadala sa selos ko pero alam kong hindi iyon magugustuhan ni Sulli. I’ve been trying to behave myself because I want him to like me romantically.

Pero kapag ganitong maraming umaaligid sakaniya ay parang gusto ko na lamang siyang ikulong sa kwarto ko magdamag at maghapon.

“So you are not gonna do anything?” Elias asked again.

“I don’t need to. I trust Sulli.” I really just don’t know what to do. Ang tanging alam ko lang ay magalit at magwala hanggang sa masunod ang gusto kong mangyari. But I can’t do that with Sullivan. He will slap the shit out of me.

All I can do right now is trust Sulli and his loyalty to our team.

——

Sulli’s

“It’s nice catching up with you, captain. I didn’t know I missed Duncan this much.” Muli kong sabi kay Rowan na natutuwa ring tumango. Naglalakad kami ngayon papunta sa condo building ko. Pasulyap-sulyap ako sa likod ko dahil nakasunod saamin si Vesper na kanina pa lukot ang mukha.

Anong nangyari nanaman sa isang ’yon?

“The team misses you too, Sulli. When are you going to visit us? Lilo misses you the most.” Ani ni Rowan. Napanguso naman ako dahil iyon ang inaalala ko ngayon. Kapag umuwi ako ng Canada ay baka hindi na ako makabalik ng Pilipinas.

Rowan said he has business to do here in the Philippines kaya naisipan niya na rin na dalawin ako. Maayos naman ang naging paalam ko sakaniya at sa dati kong team kaya alam kong hindi siya narito para pabalikin ako. Kanina pa kasi iyon ipinipilit ni Vesper na iyon raw ang balak ni Rowan dahil nakita niya itong nakasakay sa van ng Papa.

I asked Rowan about it and he said he contacted Sevan that’s why he got in touch of me. Pinasakay raw siya roon para ihatid siya sa Haraya dahil wala siyang kaalam-alam rito. Kilala niya si Sevan dahil nakasuntukan niya ito noon bago sila naging okay sa isa’t-isa.

Rowan was a good captain back in Canada. He’s also my friend along with Lilo who’s our team center. Silang dalawa ang pinaka close ko sa team. Rowan knows the score of me and my family, he also hates my father and he understood when I told him I wanted to ran away and be here in the Philippines. Kaya natuwa ako nang makita ko si Rowan kanina. I wish Lilo was here too but I guess he’s too busy.

“Maybe in the near future, I’m busy right now. I have an upcoming finals.” Mukhang natuwa siya sa huli kong sinabi.

“Your love for basketball grew even stronger, huh? I’m glad to see you this happy, Sulli.” Bigla siyang tumingin sa likuran namin at nagtama ang mga mata nila ni Vesper na hindi man lang ngumiti sakaniya. Pinakilala ko na sila sa isa’t-isa kanina ngunit si Rowan lang ata ang nagustuhan iyon. May dalaw nanaman ata ang captain ko.

“Thank you for taking care of my Sulli. I’m glad to meet you, bro.” Tinapik niya si Vesper na mas lalong nalukot ang mukha. Tumingin siya saakin at nagsalita.

“Anong pinagsasabi nitong sakanya ka? Sabihin mo sakaniya baka bangasan ko kamo siya kapag hinawakan niya pa ako.” Nanlaki ang mga mata ko sa sinabi niya.

“Ano ka ba?” Gulat kong saway. Mabuti na lang at hindi marunong mag tagalog si Rowan.

“Pauwiin mo na yan bago pa mapatid ang pasensya ko.” Dagdag niya pa kaya pinanlakihan ko siya ng mga mata. Problema nanaman ng isang ’to? Nagseselos nanaman ba siya?

“Did I say something wrong?” Taka ni Rowan na mukhang napansin ang inis ni Vesper. Ngumiti ako sakaniya at umiling-iling.

“No, don’t mind him. He’s introverted and doesn’t know how to socialize.” Ani ko at muling pinanlakihan ng mga mata si Vesper. Pinanlakihan niya rin ako ng mga mata at sinesenyasan akong paalisin ko na si Rowan. Napairap ako.

“By the way, captain. Where are you going to stay?” Tanong ko na rin dahil gabi na.

“I’ll just probably find a hotel nearby.” He shrugged. Sakto naman na nakarating na kami sa pinto ng condo ko.

“You should stay at my condo, I’m the only one staying here anyway.” I immediately offered without thinking. Natauhan lang ako nang biglang lumagabog ang pader ng condo ko at matalas na ang mga tingin saamin ni Vesper. He’s now leaning on the wall like glaring at us.

“Gusto mo ba talagang bangasan ko ’tong ungas na ’to? Paalisin mo na bago pa ako mag amok dito, Sullivan.” Seryosong banta ni Vesper at halos kurutin ko siya sa mga pinagsasabi niya.

“I guess that’s a no?” Rowan said while looking at Vesper with confusion. Nakagat ko ang labi ko at inirapan si Vesper na matabang na nakatingin lang sa nagtatakang si Rowan.

“I’m sorry. Come here first thing in the morning, I’ll tour you around the city before you go back to Canada.” Iyon na lamang ang sinabi ko at tumango naman siya. We said our goodbyes before he called an uber to get to his hotel. Pagkaalis niya ay saka ko hinarap si Vesper.

“What’s your problem?” Inis kong tanong sakaniya bago binuksan ang condo ko. Pareho kaming pumasok bago siya nagsalita.

“I don’t know. Maybe because you keep calling him your captain?” Inis niya rin na sabi bago padabog na umupo sa sofa. I looked at him funny.

“He was my captain, nasanay lang ako.” Rason ko ngunit mas lalong nalukot ang mukha niya.

“Oh, how about your fucking smile while looking at him like he’s the only guy you can see? And seriously, you were trying to make him stay at your condo? The two of you alone? Papatayin mo ba ako sa selos?” Madiin niyang sabi. Napatitig naman ako sakaniya bago natawa.

“Why the hell are you so jealous? He’s just a friend, I swear. Namiss ko lang talaga ang team ko noon that’s why I’m all smiles. And I offered him to stay here out of courtesy.” Paliwanag ko ulit at dumeretso ako sa closet para magbihis.

“I don’t care, I hate it. I told you, gusto ka no’n kunin ulit.” Nagitla ako nang sumunod siya saakin habang nagbibihis ako. He’s looking at me like he’s really mad.

“Vesper, hindi niya nga ako kinukuha. And even if he does, hindi nga ako a-alis. Stop being unreasonable. Labas, magbibihis ako.” Seryoso ko na rin na sabi but he didn’t budge.

“So paano ’tong selos na nararamdaman ko? You were hugging him and calling him captain, ako na ang captain mo. Ako na lang dapat.” Hindi agad ako nakaimik sa sinabi niya at napatitig pa ako sa seryoso niyang mukha. I stared at his eyes and I almost giggled because of how adorable he looks right now.

His face looks mad serious but his eyes are begging. Kung makatitig siya saakin ngayon ay parang gusto niyang magmakaawa na sakaniya lang dapat ang mga tingin ko.

“Okay, okay. I’m sorry. Hindi ko na ulit siya tatawagin sa ganon. Stop being jealous, captain loser.” Biro ko pa at tatawanan sana siya ngunit bigla niya akong binuhat na parang sako ng bigas

“Vesper! Put me down!” Sigaw ko ngunit lumakad siya palabas ng closet at ihiniga ako sa sofa. Kinubabawan niya ako agad at pilit ko naman siyang tinutulak.

“Say it.” Pinagkunutan ko siya ng noon.

“What?” Taka ko.

“Ako lang. Ako lang dapat.” Natigil ako sa sinabi niya at tiningnan kung seryoso nga talaga siya. Napapangiti akong nailing sa ginagawa niya. I bit my lip before speaking.

“Why? Are we even together for me to say that?” I said, refusing to back down with his flea. Ang akala ko ay maiinis siya ngunit nalukot lamang sa lungkot ang mukha niya.

“So you are still not mine? After everything we did? Pinatikim ko na nga sayo ang katawan ko ’e.” Nagbibiro niyang sabi ngunit nahalata ko ang kaba sa mga mata niya. Lihim akong napangiti roon.

“No one owns me, Captain. At ang kapal naman ng mukha mo, I was the one who gave you my virginity. I was so pure and then you tainted me.” Taas-kilay ko sakaniya habang nasa ilalim niya pa rin ako. Hindi ko iyon napansin agad ngunit pinaglalaruan ko na ang pisnge niya habang malapit na malapit ang mukha namin sa isa’t-isa.

“It’s mine, your purity is mine only. You are gonna be mine. I don’t care.” He blabbered while getting lost with our staring contest.

“I already gave it to you willingly. But it doesn’t mean you can be unreasonable with that aimless jealousy of yours. Ikaw lang, so stop being jealous.” I said with nothing but sincerity while looking at his eyes. Pinaglalaruan ko pa rin ang pisnge niya gamit ang likod ng palad ko. He blinked twice while his gazed softened. I saw how his unsure gaze turned into an assured one.

I know I shouldn’t be doing this when I don’t even want to fall in love with him. But seeing him like this makes me feel a fulfillment I haven’t felt before.

When did I start caring so much about how he feels? This is dangerous, yet I can’t stop.

“Ako lang? You promise?” Sa wakas ay nagsalita siya habang may tinatagong ngiti sa labi. I chuckled and nodded.

“I promise. Ikaw lang.” I completely gave in and I was happy to do so when I saw how big his smile was after I said it.

“Fuck. Then pauwiin mo na yung lalaking ’yon ah.” Tuwang-tuwa niyang sabi. I flicked his forehead.

“Kakasabi ko lang, stop being unreasonable.” Pinanlakihan ko siya ng mga mata. Ngumiwi naman siya at umiling.

“I am not being unreasonable. I hate that guy no matter what you say.” Parang bata niyang pagmamatigas.

“Vesper—”

“You can’t change my mind.” Napairap ako sa mga sagot niya. Wala naman kasi talaga siyang dapat ikaselos kay Rowan. Rowan already has someone he loves even before I entered the picture. Our friendship is pure and we are not attracted to each other like that. Vesper is just jealous about everyone.

“Fine, but you will like him if you actually try to know him. Mabait siya, he’s funny and he’s mature.” Pangungumbinse ko pa sakaniya dahil gano’n talagang tao si Rowan. I have high respect for him even before. He helped me a lot during one of the hardest periods of my life back in Canada.

“And I’m not? Mas gwapo ako r’on, mas matangkad, mas may dating. At higit sa lahat, mas malaki ang kargada ko panigurado.” Napahalakhak akong tinapik siya dahil sa sinabi niya. He looks so serious while saying it.

“You and your big ego. Oo na, mas gwapo ka sakaniya. Now get off of me because I’m going to shower.” Utos ko ngunit nginisihan niya lamang ako.

“Let’s shower together, I’ll show you something much bigger than my ego.” Ngisi niya at alam ko na agad ang susunod na mangyayari.

What a playboy.

——

Vesper’s

“I can’t fucking do this anymore. I want to kill that bastard so bad. Kailan ba siya a-alis?” Naibato ko ang hawak kong cards at dinampot ang baso ng alak na nasa center table sa harap namin. We are here at Elias house and we are drinking while playing cards. Ilang araw na simula nang dumating ang kumag na Rowan at halos isang linggo na rin simula nung makaharap namin ang ama ni Sulli. Lahat sila ay nandito pa rin at alam kong kinukumbinse nila si Sullivan na umalis ng Pilipinas.

“Akala ko ba tiwala ka kay Sulli?” Si Simon na inaayos ang cards na tinapon ko para igilid iyon. Hindi ko kasama ang buong team pero anim kaming nandito ngayon. I’m with Simon, Elias, Julian, Theo and Wilbert.

“Tiwala ako sakaniya, pero sa ama niya at sa Rowan na iyon? Not even a bit.” Singhal ko.

“Then why aren’t you doing anything? Did you talk to Sulli?” Elias asked while also sipping from his glass of liquor.

“Oo, ganon pa rin ang sabi niya. He said Rowan is only visiting him, wala pa rin daw siyang balak bumalik ng Canada. Pero duda ako sa bumibisita lang. Nakita mo naman ang sasakyang ginamit niya noong una natin siyang makita. That was one of tito Stevan’s van.” I think they’re messing with Sulli.

“Sinabi mo ba kay Sulli iyon?” Tanong ni Wilbert. Tumango ako.

“Anong sabi? Sabihan mo na lang siya na ’wag magtiwala sa Rowan na iyon.” Dagdag pa ni Julian.

“He said Rowan has reasons, kinontak daw talaga ang pamilya niya para makita siya. Ayaw ko naman na magpumilit pang pagdudahan siya sa harap ni Sulli. I don’t want him to think I’m getting paranoid and controlling. Kilala niyo naman si Sullivan, he doesn’t like it when someone else is deciding for him.” Napahangos ako dahil nahihirapan akong magdesisyon dahil ang palagi kong inaalala ay ang iniisip sakin ni Sulli. I don’t want to be on his wrong side again. Gusto ko nga siyang mapasakin nang tuluyan pero mukhang pinapahirapan ako ng mundo. It’s hard to be rational whenever I see him with another guy and the thought that he will slip away from my grip is making me crazy mad. All I can do right now is to behave so I can still control what’s happening.

“I’m sure he’s going to listen to you. Kausapin mo lang siya nang maayos. Malapit na rin ang finals, we need him to focus on the team.” Elias suggested. Napaisip ako bago muling tumungga ng alak. Maybe I really should have a serious conversation with Sulli about this. That Rowan and his father need to go back where they came from. Bukas na rin ang laro namin sa semis, makakalaban namin ang Valmora. After that, ilang araw lang ay finals na.

Muli akong nainis nang maalalang halos hindi kami makapag-usap nang maayos simula nang dumating ang Rowan na iyon. He’s too busy with him, nung isang araw nga ay nag suggest pa siya na sa condo niya ito matulog. Kung hindi pa ako halos magwala sa harapan niya ay ganon sana ang mangyayari. I was so pissed off that I let it all out on his tight ass. I fucked him good that he couldn’t even look at that Rowan in the eyes when the bastard visited in the morning.

Naiinis ngunit natatawa akong napailing sa naalala. Sullivan will always defeat me when it comes to verbal arguments but if I use my body and seduce him, he always gives in and I get to win. He’s weak to my touch and I love to know it. I like punishing him with angry sex whenever we argue. He also loves it and it’s making me go crazy for him even more.

Nakagat ko ang labi ko. I miss him already. Hindi kasi siya ngayon sa condo niya matutulog, he said his father wants him to sleep at his grandparents house because they’re having family dinner tonight. Kaya ito ako ngayon at hindi mapakali kaya napainom.

“And what happened with Owen and you? Hindi pa rin siya approved sainyo ni Sulli?” Tawa bigla ni Simon. Napailing ako.

“Whatever. He’s still sulking.” I know he’ll come around soon. Hindi niya naman ata ako matitiis.

“Are you really in a relationship with Sulli?” Elias suddenly asked. I looked at him before drinking my liquor.

“Why? You are still shooting your shot?” Taas-kilay ko at inirapan niya naman ako.

“Even if I do, I don’t think Sulli is looking for a boyfriend.” Matabang na aniya. Curious naman ako sa sinabi niya.

“How so?” Gusto ko sanang ipagmalaki sakaniya ang mga nangyayari saamin ni Sulli pero wala nga namang kami. Wala pa. I actually want to ask him to make it official already pero gusto kong pagkatapos na sana ng finals.

“It’s just a hunch.” Kibit-balikat niya ngunit pumasok iyon sa isip ko.

He doesn’t want a relationship? Edi ano itong ginagawa naming dalawa?

SR

Rivalry 39

Vesper’s

Three days before the finals. Three days before the game we are all been waiting for. Lahat kami ay abala na sa practice. The school gave us all the time to get ready after we won the semis against Valmora last night. Wala na kaming time pa mag celebrate dahil sa pressure sa susunod na laro.

“Pass me the ball!” I looked at Sulli who’s practicing with us. Hinihingi niya ang bola kay Simon at agad naman nitong binigay iyon sakaniya. Hapon na at halos buong araw kaming na practice kaya ang iba ay halos nakahandusay na sa gilid ng court at nagpapahinga. But the coach wanted the first five to give our all right now kaya hindi pa kami makapagpahinga.

The five of us were all focused on the training that we didn’t even noticed that it’s already night time. Nang pumito lang si Coach at sinabihan kaming tapos na ang practice ay saka lamang kami natigil.

“Fuck. I feel like my body is going to break in half.” Pagod na ani ni Simon. Napasalampak kaming lima sa court at sinadya kong tumabi kay Sulli.

“Are you alright?” Tanong ko dahil halata sakaniya ang pagod. He nodded. Tinaas niya ang damit niya para punasan ang sariling pawis. Agad ko namang binaba iyon at humingi kay Donny na nasa gilid ng pamunas. He gave it to us immediately dahil nakapagpahinga naman na sila.

“Coach said last na practice na natin ito before finals. We need to rest and condition our body for our big day.” Sabi pa ni Donny kaya napatango-tango rin kaming lima. Kaya pala pinagod niya kami nang sobra ngayon.

“Sulli, you have a visitor again.” Pare-pareho kaming napatingin sa lalaking nakatayo sa entrance ng gymnasium nang sabihin iyon ni Elias. Andito nanaman ang ungas.

“Bakit ba hindi pa yan bumabalik sa Canada?” Walang pasensya kong tanong. Nanuod siya saamin ng laro kagabi at siya rin ang naging centro ng atensyon dahil sa presensya niya. Big deal ang team niya sa Canada sa larangan ng basketball, a lot of courtside reporter were hovering over him last night. Ang loko, pinagmalaki pang binibisita niya si Sulli dahil miss niya na.

Ang dami nanaman tuloy haka-haka ang mga peste online.

“I’m also starting to wonder why.” Mahinang bulong ni Sulli bago tumayo. Nakatingin lamang ako sakaniya dahil sa tinuran niya.

Good. It’s already suspicious how much time he’s spending here. Hindi ba siya busy sa Canada? May team rin siya roon diba?

Nagpaalam si Sulli na mauuna na umuwi dahil inaaya raw siya ni Rowan mag dinner. Hindi sana ako papayag ngunit natuwa ako sa huli niyang sinabi.

“He said he’s going to go back to Canada tomorrow. Last na raw ito.” Sulli said while getting his sports bag.

“Good. Umuwi ka nang maaga. I’ll go to your condo later.” Pahabol kong sabi ngunit nagmamadali siyang lumabas ng gym kaya hindi ko alam kung narinig niya iyon.

Iyon na sana ang plano ko na antayin siya sa condo niya ngunit bago pa man sila umalis ay nakita kong sumulyap saakin si Rowan nang puno ng emosyon sa mga mata. Napakunot noo ako roon lalo na nang akbayan niya si Sulli habang palayo na sila.

I bit my lip in annoyance.

Why was he looking at me like he’s worried? What is he worried about?

Ilang minuto pa akong napaisip bago ko napagdesisyonan na sundan silang dalawa.

——

Sulli’s

“Okay. You need to tell me why you’re really here, Rowan. You are acting suspicious.” Seryoso kong sabi sa kaharap ko habang pareho kaming nakatingin sa menu ng restaurant kung saan kami kakain. Narinig ko siyang mahinang natawa saakin kaya tumingin ako sakaniya.

“You really know me. But I want to know your relationship with that guy first.” I furrowed my eyebrows when he said that.

“Shut up. Tell me why you’re here. This is not because you just want to visit, are you? What’s the business you are talking about? You better not conspire with my father or I’ll kill you.” Tinuro ko pa siya para malaman niyang seryoso ako. Itinaas niya naman ang kamay niya na parang sumusuko.

“I will never be with your father side, you know that. I do have another business here, but it’s complicated and I need you to answer my question. Are you together with that guy?” Pinaningkitan ko siya ng mga mata sa tinatanong niya.

“What guy?” Iniwas ko muli ang tingin sakaniya at tumingin sa menu.

“You know exactly who I’m talking about.” Ani pa niya ngunit umiling lamang ako. I looked everywhere else but to him.

“You’re lying.”

“I’m not.”

“You are.”

“I’m not.”

“The tall one.” Hindi ako kumibo. Why does he want to talk about Vesper?

“The angry one.” Nakagat ko ang labi ko ngunit hindi pa rin siya sinasagot.

“The one who looks at you like the rest of the world doesn’t exist.” I grabbed the water in front of me and threatened to threw it at him. Tumatawa naman siyang umiilag.

“I’m serious. I just wanna know. Are you two together?” Muli niyang tanong. He’s not really going to drop this off. I looked outside before shaking my head. Ilang segundo rin akong natahimik bago ko siya sinagot.

“No. We are not together.” Mabigat kong sagot. Natahimik naman siya ganon rin ako.

“Well, do you want to be with him?” Hindi pa rin siya tapos at nagtanong pa. Malalim akong napabuntong hininga. Ilang beses ko na rin iyon naitanong sa sarili ko.

“No.” Maikli kong sagot. Iyon naman lagi ang sagot ko. I can’t be with him. I heard Rowan frowned like he didn’t believe me.

“You don’t mean that.” Parang sigurado niyang sabi. I looked at him.

“I do.” Sagot kong muli.

“No.”

“I do.”

“Sulli.” Sumeryoso rin siya kaya naiinis akong nakagat ang labi bago iniwas ang tingin sakaniya.

“He has a complicated life, Rowan.” Panimula ko sa mga rason kung bakit hindi ako pwedeng makipag relasyon kay Vesper.

“He has family problems. Secrets. Things he doesn’t talk about and I know I can’t ask.” I frustratedly said. Napahawak pa ako sa ulo ko sa inis. I don’t want to talk about this. Sumasakit lamang ang dibdib ko.

“And every time I think I finally know him, somebody else will always say I actually don’t fucking know a thing or two about the real him.” I looked at him in the eye and let him see how frustrated I am with my real score with Vesper.

“I don’t know if I can do that— No, fuck. I can’t do that, Rowan.” Nainis ako lalo nang maramdamang parang may tutulong luha sa mga mata ko.

“Do what?” He asked and I laughed in annoyance.

“Spend my life fixing problems that aren’t mine.” Mahina kong sagot. Hindi siya umimik at pareho kaming natahimik. I don’t know why but I feel a heaviness in my chest that I haven’t felt before.

Noon ko pa naman ito balak diba? I said I only want him physically. I want the sex between us. That’s all I wanted because I know how complicated his life is.

Pero bakit masiyado akong affected ngayon na sinasabi ko ito sa iba? Hindi naman ganito dati.

I was fine with it before.

I let out a loud sigh before looking up. Magsasalita sana akong muli nang mahagip ng mga mata ko ang taong nakatayo hindi kalayuan saamin.

My body went cold and my eyes widened. Halo-halong emosyon ang naramdaman ko nang mapagtantong narinig niya lahat ang mga sinabi ko. Fear, shock, regret. All at once.

“Vesper..” Tawag ko sa pangalan niya. He’s looking at us and I saw the redness in his eyes. Hindi lang iyon. I saw how badly hurt he was.

Napatayo ako nang tumalikod siya. He didn’t even say anything and just turned around to walk away.

“Ves!” Tawag kong muli sakaniya. I was rattled out and I tried to follow him but I was stopped when Rowan also stood up and grab me by the wrist. I looked at him confused and tried to run again but he tightened his grip.

“Rowan! Let me go.” Madiin kong utos ngunit napapayuko siyang bumuntong hininga. I looked at him confused and panicking. Baka makalayo na si Vesper.

“You said you don’t want to be with him. Sulli, I didn’t really came here to visit you.” I stopped resisting when he said that. I looked at him again because there’s something wrong with his voice.

He sounds scared.

“Rowan.” Tawag ko sa pangalan niya. Nakita kong napalunok siya at hindi pa rin siya makatingin saakin.

“Rowan, what’s going on?” Tanong kong muli. Ilang segundo pa siyang natahimik bago niya binitawan ang hawak saakin at naupong muli. Nakatingin lamang ako sakaniya nang takot at naguguluhan.

I don’t know why but I got scared of the way he’s acting right now. Alam kong seryoso ang sasabihin niya.

“Sulli, a few months after you left. Lilo got sick.” My stomach immediately dropped when he mentioned Lilo. Napaupo rin ako at nag-a-alalang nagtanong.

“What? How sick? He was fine when I left.”

“We thought he was fine too. But he was hiding it from us. That’s why he kept getting tired even tho he’s used to the training, that’s why he didn’t want to meet me outside. And then he started missing practice. He suddenly quit.” Nakita ko kung paano tumulo ang luha sa mga mata ni Rowan at alam kong malala ang sakit ni Lilo sa inaakto niya.

Lilo is the guy who has his heart. He’s been trying to be with Lilo even before I joined the team. Hindi man siya sinasagot ni Lilo, I know they have mutual understanding. I know Rowan is hurting so bad right now.

“He has cancer, Sulli. He said he has it for a long time now. That’s why he didn’t reciprocate my feelings, that’s why he tried so hard for me to forget my feelings for him. Because he knows he’s going to die soon.” Sunod-sunod na tumulo ang luha ko kasabay ng mga luha ni Rowan. Ilang ulit akong napalunok. Hinawakan ko ang kamay niyang nasa mesa at muling nagtanong.

“W-Why didn’t he tell me? Before I left, he should’ve told me. I wouldn’t have left if he did.” Naiiyak kong ani. Ayoko man na paniwalaan ang mga sinasabi ni Rowan ngayon, alam kong hindi siya magsisinungaling nang ganito. I want to be in denial but I know if Rowan is saying this to me, he already accepted it.

“Because he’s Lilo. He knew you finally got what you wanted. To get away from your family, he wanted you to be happy.” Napapikit ako sa mga sinasabi niya. He’s right. Lilo is so selfless. He would rather die alone than inconvenience others.

“Then why aren’t you staying with him right now? You should be by his side until he gets better!” Inis kong ani kay Rowan ngunit tuluyan siyang yumuko at humagulhol nang iyak. Agad akong natigilan at agad na natakot sa reaksyon niya.

“Rowan, don’t tell me..” Halos walang tunog ang boses ang lumabas saakin.

“He wants to see you before he goes. The doctors don’t think he has much time left. He’s leaving us.” Halos pumiyok si Rowan habang sinasabi iyon. Napailing-iling ako. I chanted the words ‘No’ so many times before I could finally think straight.

“W-When? How m-much time he has left for us?” Nanghihina kong tanong. Inayos ni Rowan ang sarili niya ngunit tuloy-tuloy pa rin ang mga luha sa mga mata naming dalawa.

“We need to leave tomorrow. His family called me and said he’s deteriorating fast. I wouldn’t have left him but he said this is his last wish to me, to get you so he can see the team complete one last time.” Nakagat ko ang labi ko nang maalala ang finals.

Is that why Rowan didn’t tell me about it immediately? Kaya ba tinatanong niya ako kanina about kay Vesper? He’s measuring if he should tell me because he knows I would have to choose between my current team and Lilo.

The finals and Lilo.

But he’s dying, and I might not see him again anymore if I think about this more.

Is the championship more important over a person’s life? Over my best friend’s life?

But I know I might also lose one person if I do this. Not only Lilo, but Vesper.

SR

Rivalry 40

Sulli’s

“What? Are you serious?” Napaiwas ako ng tingin kay Owen nang tumaas ang boses niya.

“The finals is three days away, Sulli. You can’t leave the team like this.” Napapikit ako sa sinabi niya.

“I need to. Lilo is dying. Baka hindi ko na siya maabutan.” Mahina kong rason. Hindi siya agad nakapagsalita.

“Are you sure Rowan is telling the truth?” Sumabat si Sevan na ngayon ay narito rin sa mansyon dahil naririto ang Papa. I nodded.

“We called Lilo earlier. Facetime. He’s so thin and pale, kinakain na siya ng sakit niya.” Pahina nang pahina ang boses ko. Pagkatapos naming mag-usap ni Rowan kanina ay pumayag na akong sumama sakaniya para kay Lilo. He immediately called him and we both told him that we are coming back tomorrow. Lilo looks so different than before. Hindi naman siya ganoon kapayat nang umalis ako ng Canada.

“Did you tell Vesper about this?” Muling tanong ni Owen. Napayuko ako nang maalala ang mukha kanina ni Vesper.

He was so hurt. He heard everything. Paano ko ito ngayon ipapaliwanag sakaniya?

“No. I kept calling him but he’s not picking up. He might be mad at me right now.” Pag-amin ko at mas lalong kumunot ang noo ni Owen.

“Then how are you planning to tell the team? Iiwan mo sila nang ganon-ganon lang?” Umiling ako sa sinabi niya.

“Bibisita lang ako. Baka makabalik rin ako bago ang finals. Lilo just really wants to see me before he goes.” Nakagat ko ang labi ko. Makabalik nga kaya ako bago ang finals?

“How about our father? Bukas rin ang balik nila sa Canada. Baka hindi ka na niya pakawalan pabalik rito.” Ani ni Sevan ngunit umiling ako.

“I will come back no matter what.” Humarap ako kay Owen. “Owen, I need you to tell the team for me. Babalik ako, I promise.” Pakiusap ko ngunit umiling-iling rin siya saakin.

“Magagalit ang mga iyon sayo. They need you for the finals. Bakit ngayon pa?” Inis na tanong niya.

“What do you want me to do? Choose the finals over a dying person? Tell me what better choice do I have here?” Naiinis ko na rin na ani. Napasinghay si Owen at ilang ulit napailing.

“I’ll book you a flight for tomorrow, kuya. If you really want to come back before the finals, you need to go there as soon as possible.” Tumayo si Sevan at hinalikan ako sa pisnge bago nagpaalam na a-alis na para asikasuhin ang flight ko. Malalim akong napabuntong-hininga nang maiwan kami ni Owen sa sala.

Ayoko man na iwan ang team ngayon, hindi ko alam kung anong sasabihin ko kay Lilo kung hindi ako sumama kay Rowan bukas.

Hindi dahil magagalit siya na hindi ko siya pinuntahan, it’s because I know he would understand. He would tell me not to go but I know he wants me to. He would never inconvenience me but that also means not seeing him again.

I also want to see him if it means it’s the last time I’m having the chance to. He’s been my best friend that supported me all throughout my life in Canada. I just can’t ignore his one last wish.

“Tiwala ako na mananalo ang team kahit hindi ako umabot, Owen. Tell them I trust them.” Humarap akong muli kay Owen na hindi tumitingin saakin. Kagat-labi akong lumapit sakaniya at hinawakan siya sa kamay. He looked at me like he’s disappointed.

“And please tell Vesper to win the game. Tell him I’m sorry and I’ll make it up to him. To the team. I beg you, Owe.” Pagmamakaawa ko at umiwas lamang siya ng tingin bago tumango.

“Fine. Wala naman na akong magagawa. It’s your decision.” Pagpayag niya at napahangos ako roon. My phone suddenly vibrated. Sa pag-aakalang si Vesper iyon ay agad kong kinuha ang selpon ko na nasa bulsa ko lamang.

Napakunot ang noo ko nang makitang hindi iyon si Vesper kundi si Sid. Hindi ko na sana iyon papansinin nang may ideyang pumasok sa isip ko.

I’m sure Sid will try to ruin Vesper again during the finals. I need to do the same to him.

This is all I can do for the team right now.

——

Sid’s

“Give me one glass of martini.” I raised my finger to get the attention of Earl, the bartender of this club I frequent. Agad niya naman iyong ginawa at kasabay ng pagbigay niya saakin ng inumin ko ay may umupo sa katabi kong stool.

“Martini? The glass doesn’t suit you, Sid.” Nagulat ako nang makita si Sulli sa harapan ko. I blinked and looked at the cocktail glass where Earl put the martini I ordered. Doon rin kasi talaga iyon nilalagay. Kinuha ko iyon bago malaki ang ngiting hinarap si Sulli.

“Is the world finally ending? Wow, I must be getting lucky. Did you finally realize I am the better choice?” I excitedly said, humoring him. I didn’t expect to see him here. Sa lahat ng taong makakaharap ko ngayong gabi, wala siya sa naisip ko. Although I’ve been messaging him to get closer to him but he rarely respond. He must want something from me kaya narito siya.

“No. I’m only here to ask you something.” Deretso niyang sabi na parang may lakad. He didn’t even laugh at my joke. I chuckled and took a sip of the martini I’m holding.

“What are you going to ask that you actually came to me?” Tanong ko habang iniinom ang alak na hawak. He looked at me in the eyes before answering.

“About Vesper.” I scoffed at what he said.

“Of course it’s about him.” Iling ko na ipinapakita sakaniya ang disappointment. He rolled his eyes at me.

“Ikaw ’tong palagi akong kinukulit na maging curious. Now I’m finally giving in and you are acting like this?” Inis niyang sabi kaya natawa ako.

“Relax. Bakit galit agad? What about Vesper?” Tanong ko bago ipinatong sa counter ang hawak kong alak. He looked at it before looking at my face.

“During the elimination where I freaking beat your ass, what did you tell Vesper that he acted like that?” Seryoso at deretso niyang tanong. I smiled at what he said and I am genuinely happy that he finally asked. I’ve been dying for him to ask about it.

“First, why are you finally asking?” Hindi ko siya agad sinagot. I’m also curious why he suddenly wants to know. He said he doesn’t want to get involved and now he’s in front of me, asking about it.

Anong bago?

“Just answer me. I want to know why he looks so traumatized and so out of it that day.” Tumaas ang kilay ko sa sinabi niya.

“Traumatized? Trust me, he’s not the one who’s traumatized here. I keep telling you, he’s not the victim of what happened.” My jaw tightened. Is that what he keeps saying to Sulli? That he’s traumatized? The nerve of that bastard.

“Then fucking tell me what happened!” Sulli snapped. I stared at him for a moment before looking away. Muli kong kinuha ang alak sa counter at tinungga iyon bago nagsalita.

“Yung away namin bago siya lumipat ng Haraya, hindi iyon ang dahilan kung bakit hanggang ngayon ay may alitan pa rin kami.” Kunot-noo kong panimula. I planned to tell Sulli about it, I do. Pero ngayong sinisimulan ko na ay napupuno ng galit, sakit at puot ang dibdib ko.

Until now, I really can’t fucking get it out of my head.

“Is this about that girl, Jadeline?” I looked at Sulli when he mentioned that name. I frowned.

“How do you know about her?” Taka ko dahil alam kong hinding-hindi babanggitin ni Vesper si Jade sakaniya.

“I just know. I heard some things.” Mahina niyang sagot. Napailing ako.

“Anong nalaman mo?” Curious kong tanong. He shrugged his shoulders.

“Na pinag agawan niyo siya.” Maikli niyang sagot. I almost laughed in annoyance with what he said.

“What? No. It’s true that we both had a relationship with her, pero hindi namin siya pinag agawan.” I corrected him. Siya naman ang nagtaka.

“What? So the both of you planned to take turns with her?” He sarcastically said. Napangiwi ako.

“I can’t go into details, pero siguro, parte siya kung pano nagsimula ang lamat sa pagkakaibigan namin. After Vesper broke up with her, she came to me. That’s why we both had a relationship with Jade.” Paliwanag ko sa totoong nangyari.

“I’m so fucking confused. Ang akala ko ay si Jade ang nakipag break kay Vesper?” Taka niya. Hinarap ko siyang muli.

“Where are you getting this information? Vesper doesn’t love anyone, he can’t love anyone. That’s why he broke up with her. While for me, I had a relationship with her because I wanted to pissed Vesper off. It didn’t work tho.” I snickered and sighed when I remembered what happened after my relationship with Jade. Bumalik saakin lahat at muli nanamang bumigat ang dibdib ko.

“Anyway, this isn’t your question. Something happened to Jade that I can’t tell you about, and Vesper accused me of planning it. Pero lahat kami nagulat nang malaman kung sino ang may gawa niyon— “

“Jude, her brother. I told you, I heard some of it.” Napakurap akong muli nang banggitin niya nang walang alinlangan ang pangalan na iyon. I stared at him for a second when anger crept inside my chest. Pilit kong nilunok iyon bago muling nagsalita.

“Fine. Let’s skip that information. Dederetsuhin na kita, it was Vesper’s father doing that’s why I will never be friends with that monster again. Kagagawan ng ama niya kung bakit galit na galit ako sakaniya. And you know what? Hindi sila nagkakalayo ng ugali. They’re both evil.” I spat and tried so hard to calm myself. I can’t be irrational in front of Sulli. I’m still trying to win his favor.

“What do you mean? What did he do?” Muli kong nakuha ang buong atensyon niya. I looked at him straight in the eye before answering.

“Ask Vesper, I don’t want to tell you anymore.” Humarap akong muli sa counter at muling nag order ng inumin. Narinig kong napamura si Sulli sa sinabi ko.

“What the hell, Sid? Just fucking tell me.” Pagpupumilit niya. I shook my head.

“No. I told you, it’s not my words that you are going to believe. I will show you a video and you will know. But I’ll show it to you in one condition.” I looked at him again and he’s already glaring at me.

“What?”

“Leave your team. Let us win the finals.” Walang alinlangan kong sabi. He laughed humorless and glared at me again.

“Fuck off. Why can’t you just fucking tell me with your fucking words?”

“Because I don’t want to relive it!” Hindi ko napigilang magtaas boses at pareho kaming natigilan ni Sulli. Napatingin rin saamin ang i-ilang customer na malapit. Napalunok ako at naihilamos ang palad sa sariling mukha.

“I’m sorry, Sulli. I didn’t realize it’s too painful for me. Just ask Vesper about it, he’s not affected by it anyway. Parang wala lang sakaniya ang nangyaring ’yon. He always acts like it’s nothing and it doesn’t bother him, he acts like it didn’t happen and he already forgot about it.” Galit kong ani. Kaya hindi mawala-wala ang galit ko sakaniya. How can he be so cruel that after everything we’ve gone through in the hands of his own father, he acted like it’s the most normal thing? Like it didn’t even happen? Even Owen took his side but he didn’t act like he forgot!

“I spent a long time trying to forget about it, but Vesper will always beat me to it. Every time I bring it up, he acts like he doesn’t know what I’m talking about.” Pataas nang pataas ang galit sa dibdib ko at hindi ko iyon nagugustohan. I will definitely send that clip to Sulli so he would know what I’m talking about.

“He did forgot. He doesn’t remember at all.” Natigilan ako sa biglang sinabi ni Sulli.

“What?” Taka akong tumingin sakaniya. Seryoso siya saaking nakatingin na parang pinag-a-aralan ang mukha ko. Not only that, he’s looking at me like he’s sympathizing and I didn’t like it.

“I did ask him what you were trying to bring up before. Tinanong ko siya kung bakit siya umaakto nang ganon dahil lang may sinabi ka. But he said he also doesn’t know, and he keeps trying to remember it but his brain completely shuts down whenever you try to say something about it.” Napatitig ako sakaniya dahil sa mga sinasabi niya.

“Please. Do you actually think I will believe that?” Iniwas ko ang tingin ko sakaniya. Muli sana akong iinom sa hawak kong baso nang damputin niya iyon at malakas na ipatong sa counter. I looked at him confused but he was already looking at me dead serious.

“Ikaw ang makakasagot niyan, Sid. Every time you try to tell him about it, wala ka bang napapansin sa mga inaakto niya? He can’t fake it, he won’t.” I frowned and tried to remember how Vesper reacts whenever I tell him about it. Lahat iyon ay inalala ko.

“I don’t fucking believe it.” Mahina kong sabi habang inaalala pa rin. But the more I thought about it, the more things suddenly made sense.

The blank stares. The confusion. The way Vesper genuinely looked lost whenever I bring up that incident. The way he always shut down and just tries to be physical with me. As if his mind physically refused to go any further. He doesn’t even reason out with me or say something about that incident.

Not even once.

Natulala ako nang matagal bago ko narinig muli si Sulli.

“You are his friend before. You know him more than I do. Think about it. Kung galit ka sakaniya dahil umaakto siyang parang walang nangyari, he’s also mad confused of why you are so mad at him. He can’t remember. Even if you try to make him, his mind refuses to.” Mahaba niyang sabi ngunit hindi ako sumagot.

I still don’t want to believe this. It can’t be. I felt numb for a second.

“He’s fucking pretending.” Matigas kong ani. Sulli laughed in annoyance.

“Do you really believe that? Sid, even you, you don’t want to relive it. So does Vesper, the difference is his mind is so traumatized that it chooses to actually forget about it.” Hindi ako kumibo at naramdaman ko ang kamay ni Sulli sa balikat ko. He stared at me for a second and I looked at him. Ang akala ko ay galit siya ngunit natigilan ako nang makita ang emosyon sa mga mata niya.

Pity. Awa.

“If the two of you are like this because of that traumatic incident, it must be that cruel. I just hope the both of you can be more gentle with each other.” Mahina niyang sabi bago siya tumalikod at umalis sa harap ko. I was left staring blankly at the counter. Hindi ako nakaimik at walang ibang laman ang isip ko kundi ang posibilidad na totoo nga ang mga sinabi niya.

For the first time in years, I felt something worse than anger.

How dare him say that? How dare him assume that it’s that simple? Sullivan doesn’t know anything!

Kinuha ko ang selpon sa loob ng bulsa ko. I rummaged through it before I found the piece of evidence I’ve been keeping for so long.

Nanginginig sa galit kong sinend iyon kay Sulli at kay Vesper. I stared at it for full minute with rage in my eyes.

Sulli will finally know how much of a monster Vesper and his father is. And Vesper doesn’t deserve that kind of privilege to just forget about all of it.

All these time I’ve been suffering so much and he had the nerve to actually forget and live a normal life?

I will never let him do that. I will bring that hell to him again and again until he remembers if I have to.

I will not fucking suffer alone.

SR

A/N: Tapos na ang semester namin

🥳

Rivalry 41

A/N: This was supposed to be published much earlier than this but I had an emergency lakad so I couldn’t even edit my drafts. But here you go.

Sevan’s

Everything is fucked. After my brother left for Canada, lahat ata ng taong nakapaligid sakin ay nasiraan na ng bait.

“What the fuck is wrong with that guy?” Mahina kong bulong habang nakatingin sa lalaking nakahandusay sa sahig ng dance floor. Some of his friends tried to get him up and they only managed to sat him up on a chair nearby. He’s out of it. He’s so drunk. Sid is so fucking wasted at ilang gabi na rin siyang ganito.

I hate to see it because he looks so stupid but we frequent the same fucking bar.

“Is that Sid? What’s happening?” My co-star I’m with suddenly said. I looked at Joe.

“You know him?” I asked while drinking a beer. He nodded while looking at Sid funny. Natatawa siya sa sitwasyon nito.

“He’s a basketball star, along with his friend, Vesper. The both of them are star student-athletes. Parehong magaling at may itsura ’e.” Tumaas ang kilay ko sa sinabi niya. Well, their games are always on television. I guess they’re also famous.

“Friends? I thought they are enemies?” Taka ko sa sinabi niya. When I dig something about Vesper, ang nakuha ko ay kaaway niyang mortal si Sid.

“Before, they were friends before. Nag away lang kaya lumipat ng school si Vesper. Lumaki sa Silang ang dalawang yan, but because of their altercation, they separated.” Kibit-balikat niyang kwento.

“How do you know about that?” Tanong kong muli.

“Everyone around them knows about it. Senior din kasi nila ako, I graduated from Silang.” Sagot niya kaya muli akong uminom sa bote ng beer bago nagtanong pa sakaniya.

“Anong away nila?” Curious kong tanong.

“Simple lang naman sana iyon ’e. Ayaw ni Vesper sa mga bagong kaibigan ni Sid, because they have questionable morals. He told Sid to choose, their friendship or those new friends of his.” Nginuso niya pa ang mga kasama ngayon ni Sid.

“Sid wanted to stand on his own, pagod na raw sa controlling nature ni Vesper kaya mas pinili niya ang mga bago niyang mga kaibigan. Vesper was mad about it but he accepted it and transferred school, para umiwas sana sa gulo. Pero ayon, mas lalong lumala dahil sa babae.” Kwento niya pa at naalala ko iyong nakuha kong impormasyon dati. The former Captain of Haraya has a sister, both Sid and Vesper had a relationship with her.

“’Yun lng? Were they really friends in the first place if that’s all it took for them to be rivals? That’s petty.” I sarcastically said. Natawa naman si Joe.

“Well, iyon lang naman ang alam ko. I don’t know their exact reasons why they chose their own separate ways. Baka may mas malalim pa nga roon na rason na hindi natin alam, but I agree. They threw their friendship away so easily.” Tango-tango niya pa. Maya-maya ay nagpaalam siya na kailangan niya na umalis dahil may taping pa siya bukas. I nodded at him and I was left all alone at the bar counter.

I glanced at Sid again and he’s now awake but staring blankly at nowhere. Napangiwi ako.

What’s his real reason?

I-Iwas ko na sana ang tingin ko nang may mahagip ang mga mata ko. Agad akong napangiti nang makita siya.

Isaac entered the entrance of the bar, malapit iyon sa kinauupuan nila Sid kaya nahagip siya ng mga mata ko. His eyes wandered around at natigil pa siya ng makita si Sid sa gilid niya. Ang akala ko ay si Sid ang pinunta niya rito ngunit muli siyang nagtingin-tingin sa loob ng bar hanggang sa magtama ang mga mata namin. I immediately waved at him and smiled.

Ano kayang pinunta niya rito? Is he still following me around?

Nagulat pa ako lalo nang lumakad siya palapit saakin. Ako nga ata ang pinunta niya rito.

“Sir Sevan.” Agad niyang tawag saakin. Napangiwi ako roon. I’ve been texting him and he doesn’t even respond, not even once. Ngayon ko lang ulit siya nakita.

“Just call me ‘Sev’. Why are you here?” Tanong ko at inalok ko pa siya ng bote ng beer. He refused and I noticed he looked like he’s panicking.

“What’s wrong?” Tanong kong muli.

“Have you seen Marga?” Tanong niya at napakunot-noo naman ako. Marga? Sino ’yun?

“Who?” Taka ko. Nagulat naman ako nang makita ko siyang magkagat labi at muling sumulyap sa grupo nila Sid.

“Vesper’s sister, her name is Marga. She’s been missing since yesterday. And Vesper is looking for him, mamaya lang ay nandito na siya. He will cause a mess if he doesn’t see Marga.” Mahaba niyang sabi na parang hiningal pa siya. I didn’t understand what he’s saying but I secretly smiled because of how cute he is. He’s a man of few words and I just know he made an effort to explain what he just said to me.

“I don’t know her. Why are you looking for her here? She comes here often?” I asked again without urgency. Halata sakaniya na nag-a-alala but I can’t understand the urgency he’s feeling right now.

Ano naman kung pumunta rito si Vesper para hanapin ang kapatid niya?

“She frequents here with Sid. She’s Sid’s girlfriend. I’m sorry, I have to go.” Nagmamadali niya pang sabi at saka tumalikod. Natungga ko naman ang iniinom ko bago ko siya sinundan dahil nakita kong lumapit na siya sa grupo nila Sid.

May girlfriend pala ang Sid na ’to? At kapatid pa ni Vesper? What in the world is with these people? Something’s wrong with all of their heads.

“She’s not with me, and I couldn’t care less what happens to her. Get the hell out of here.” Nang makalapit ako sakanila ay iyon ang narinig kong sinasabi ni Sid kay Isaac na mukhang nagtanong. Nagkatinginan pa kami nang tumabi ako kay Sevan.

“Sulli?” Nagulat ako nang tawagin niya ako sa pangalan ni kuya. I scoffed at him.

“Sober up, jackass. My brother is in Canada.” I snickered at him. Hinawakan ko sa siko si Isaac para sana umalis na roon dahil iba ang tingin saamin ng mga kaibigan ni Sid. They look like they will smash our heads if we do something they didn’t like.

May sinasabi pa sana si Isaac habang hinihila ko siya paalis nang biglang magkagulo ang lahat. I was stupefied when a bolting figure suddenly attacked Sid. The both of them fell on the floor and they started exchanging punches.

“Vex!” Isaac shouted and tried to separate them but he got punched by Sid. Doon lamang ako natauhan at agad ko siyang sinalo dahil napalakas ang tama sakto sa mukha niya. Dumugo ang ilong niya kaya nanlaki ang mga mata ko.

“Are you okay?!” Gulat kong tanong. Isaac stood straight while holding his nose and nodded at me. I saw his eyes darkened while looking at Sid and Vesper who’s still trying to kill each other. Nagkagulo na ang buong bar.

“Where’s my sister?!” Gulat pa rin akong napatingin kay Vesper nang marinig ko ang malakas niyang boses.

“I said I don’t know! Fucker!” Sagot ni Sid at nagsalitan muli sila ng suntok. Hanggang sa makatayo na silang dalawa at binabato ang isa’t-isa ng kung ano-ano ay hindi sila natigil. Sa sobrang pagkabigla ko ay pinanuod ko sila nang matagal. Nang matauhan ay napatingin ako sa paligid namin at sa tropa ni Sid ngunit pare-pareho lamang silang pinapanuod ang dalawa. Pati ang bouncer ay nakatunganga lamang!

“What the hell are y’all doing?! Separate those lunatics!” Sigaw ko ngunit masama lang ang mga tingin nito sa dalawang nasiraan na ata ng bait sa mga ginagawa nila ngayon.

“They won’t try to meddle, they’re afraid pf Vesper.” Bulong ni Isaac na nakahawak pa rin sa ilong niya. I frowned and looked at the state of both Sid and Vesper. Vesper looks sober kaya lugi si Sid. Mas marami ang nakukuhang tama ni Sid at nakaramdam ako ng awa roon.

Shit. What the hell are they doing?

“Ano bang problema ni Vesper?” Lumapit ang isa sa mga tropa ni Sid at tinanong iyon kay Isaac. Isaac swallowed while looking so gloomy.

“He hasn’t seen Marga since yesterday. And he’s been moody for days now, konting kibot ko ay nagagalit. Konting mali ng iba ay hindi niya pinapalampas. Probably has a connection with Sulli’s departure.” Napamura ako sa paliwanag ni Isaac. This is what I’m saying when I said everything has been fucked when my brother suddenly left! Lahat sila ay nasiraan na ng bait!

“We also haven’t seen Marga for days now. It’s the truth.” Ani pa ng tropa ni Sid. Napailing ako at ako na mismo ang lumapit sa nagwawalang dalawa. Bugbog na si Sid! Wala man lang nagtangkang lumapit sakanilang dalawa kundi si Isaac na nasuntok pa.

“Stop it! Have you lost your mind?!” Walang alinlangan kong sinipa sa tagiliran si Vesper na may ibabato sana kay Sid na ngayon ay nakahawak na sa counter para alalayan ang sarili. Both of their lips, noses and foreheads are already bleeding. Vesper got out of balance because of my kick.

Pare-pareho naman silang nagulat sa ginawa ko but I couldn’t care less. Matalas na napatingin saakin si Vesper ngunit parang nabigla siya nang makita ako.

“Sullivan?” Napamura ako nang muli akong matawag sa pangalan ni kuya.

Are they really losing it just because my brother left? Para namang hindi babalik!

“Fuck off, both of you. Wala nga raw dito ang kapatid mo, yang nilulumpo mo, lasing! Walang kalaban-laban sayo.” Galit kong sabi at mukhang natauhan naman siya. Napapalunok itong umiwas ng tingin bago nagmartsa palabas ng bar. I furrowed my head at where he exited and I saw Isaac immediately followed him.

Pumunta lang talaga rito para magwala!

Napailing ako. Gaano ba makapangyarihan ang isang ’yon at kahit itong mga mukhang kriminal na tropa ni Sid ay hindi nagtangkang pagtulungan siya?

“Are you okay, Sid?”

“Let go.” Napatingin ako kay Sid nang lapitan siya ng mga tropa niya. They’re trying to help him get up but he refused. Pinilit niyang lumakad at hindi pa man siya nakakalayo ay agad siyang natumba. Dahil malapit ako sakaniya ay agad ko siyang sinalo.

“Stupid. You should go to the hospital.” Bulong ko sakaniya. He glanced at me and I thought he’s also gonna resist my help but he only closed his eyes. Napamura ako roon.

Did he passed out?

“Take care of him, aayusin lang namin itong bar.” Muli akong napamura nang mahinang sabihin iyon ng isa sa mga tropa niya. Inis at gigil kong inayos si Sid. I tried to carry him bridal style but he’s so heavy.

Malalim akong napabuntong-hininga at walang naging choice kundi ang ipatong siya sa likod ko. I piggyback him before walking to exit the bar.

“I’m just gonna dump you in a hospital and we are good. You’re such a fucking nuisance.” Bulong ko sakaniya habang nahihirapan akong lumakad palabas ng bar dahil sa bigat niya. Nang makarating kami sa parking lot ay hinanap ko ang kotse ko ngunit iba ang nakita ko.

Napapikit akong muli sa inis. I saw Vesper throwing up while Isaac is behind him, trying to help. Hindi ko na sana sila papansinin dahil gusto ko na maisakay sa kotse si Sid nang makita ko kung pano nawalan ng malay si Vesper. Isaac was quick to catch him but he struggled to keep up. Masiyadong malaki si Vesper sakaniya and he was caught off guard when Vesper suddenly passed out. I sighed deeply and walked towards them.

“Why did he passed out?” Tanong ko. Isaac looked at me. Sinenyasan ko siyang sumunod saakin at ginawa niya naman iyon.

“He’s been drinking for two days already, he also hasn’t eaten anything.” Napakunot-noo ako sa sinabi niya. He didn’t looked drunk earlier, I thought he was sober. Napangiwi ako at ipinasok si Sid sa kotse ko nang makalapit kami roon. Ginawa rin iyon ni Isaac. Pinagtabi namin silang dalawa sa likod ng kotse ko bago ako nagsalita.

“Nababaliw na ba talaga silang dalawa?” Bulong ko. Nagulat pa ako nang marinig na mahinang natawa si Isaac. I looked at him before we both entered the driver seat and him at the passenger seat.

“It’s the first time, the first time I saw Vex be like this. Indeed I think he’s slipping into insanity.” I stared at him when he said that with a smile on his lips nang makapasok na kami sa kotse ko. Ilang segundo bago ako malakas na natawa sa sinabi niya. I started the engine of my car and started driving to go to the nearest hospital.

I didn’t know he can smile like that. He looks pretty.

“Damn. Do you always talk like that? Where are you from?” Tawa ko. Napakurap-kurap naman siya saakin bago nahihiyang umiwas ng tingin. Nakagat ko ang labi ko. He really looks cute. Inabutan ko siya ng panyo dahil may konting dugo pa ang ilong niya.

Napatitig naman siya roon bago kinuha at ginamit.

“I was raised surrounded by the monarchy. I’m still practicing talking like.. normal.” Mahina niyang paliwanag at mas lalo akong natawa. Mas lalo naman siyang namula.

“I was just kidding, but why were you raised surrounded by the monarchy? Are you a royalty?” Biro ko pa ulit. Mukhang nag alinlangan naman siyang sumagot. Matagal siyang hindi umimik at hindi na siya sumagot. He looked everywhere else but me. Napailing ako.

“You don’t need to answer that, I’m just playing. Anyway, I’ve been messaging you and you never respond. Why is that?” Iniba ko ang usapan. Sinulyapan ko pa sa salamin si Sid at Vesper at pareho pa rin silang walang malay sa likod. Natawa pa ako nang makitang magkatabi na ang ulo nilang dalawa.

Ang bait pala nilang dalawa pag tulog.

“That was you? You never stated your name so I ignored it.” Nagulat ako sa sinabi niya. I didn’t? Did I forgot to introduce myself? I’m so stupid.

“It’s me, please respond from now on. Hm?” Ngiti ko sakaniya at nakita kong napatitig siya saakin bago mabilis na iniwas ang mga mata niya. I smirked and parked my car outside the hospital we just arrived at.

“Answer me, Isaac. You are going to respond from now on, right?” Muli kong sabi habang tinatanggal ang seatbelt ko.

“Understood, sir.” Natigilan ako sa sinagot niya at mukhang pati siya ay nagulat. Nagkatinginan kami bago siya nagmamadaling lumabas ng kotse. Kagat-labi akong natawa.

He looks so serious and always poker face but he stammers and panics like that in front of me. Cute.

Napangiwi rin ako when I felt something between my legs.

I got hard when he called me sir.

I sighed and looked at Vesper and Sid who’s almost hugging each other.

Sagabal sa pag landi ko ang dalawang ’to. I’ll make sure to have Isaac for myself next time.

SR

A/N: Waw pakboy pala to ’e

Rivalry 42

Owen’s

“What do you mean he’s gone?!” Umalingawngaw ang boses ni coach Solis sa court. The crowd and some of the court side reporters looked at our group.

It’s the championship day. The big crowd we were expecting are here, the cameras are everywhere, banners and everything has been prepared for our team to play.

Maglalaro na lamang ang dalawang grupo. Silang at Haraya.

“We don’t know, Coach. We can’t contact him.” But how can they play when the Captain is nowhere to be found?

“Hanapin niyo! And what about Turner?” Saakin nabaling ang galit na tingin ni Coach. Napailing ako.

“I can’t reach him too, I think hindi siya a-abot.” Mahina kong paliwanag at napahilamos nang mukha si coach Solis. Totoong hindi ko makontak si Sulli. He must be busy with Lilo.

“Basta nandito si Vesper! We can win this if he’s here!” Sigaw ng coach. Nakagat ko ang labi ko. Nasaan nga ba ang lalaking iyon? Kanina ko pa siya tinatawagan at hindi man lang sumagot!

“Coach! Narinig ko ang problema sa kabila, hindi rin nila mahanap si Sid.” Lumapit saamin si Julian at sinabi iyon. I looked at the Silang team and they also look like they’re stressing out. Lakas loob akong lumapit sakanila at humarap kay Quentin na nakakunot-noo na agad saakin.

“May kinalaman kayo sa pagkawala ni Vesper?” Deretsong tanong ko at hindi ito makapaniwalang tumingin saakin. Lumapit rin ang iba niyang teammates ngunit hindi ako natinag.

Malakas ang loob kong may alam sila kung nasaan si Vesper.

“Bakit kami? Eh si Vesper ’tong bigla na lang sumugod kagabi sa Fury. Binugbog niya si Sid at ngayon hindi namin siya makita!” Nagulat ako sa sinagot niya saakin. Sumugod si Vesper sa Fury?

“Dinala ’yon nung kapatid ni Sulli, yung artista. Ang alam ko siya ang huling iniwanan ko kay Sid, bigla na lang nawala kagabi.” Dagdag pa ni Teddy. I frowned and was so confused.

Si Sevan?

Nanlaki ang mga mata ko sa isiping baka may ginawang masama si Sevan kay Sid. Napapamura kong kinuha ang selpon ko at agad siyang tinawagan.

“Where the hell are you? Did you take Sid last night? Ikaw raw ang huling kasama ni Sid.” Nang sumagot siya ay agad ko siyang sininghalan. It was a long pause before he answered.

“Huh? Ano naman? Why are you calling me about this— shit. Bakit ang ingay ng background mo?” Mukhang bagong gising siya at hindi inaasahan ang tawag ko.

“Answer me, Sevan Lucien. Where’s Sid? Don’t tell me you did something bad to him?” Akusa ko dahil ang alam ko ay sinugod niya na ito noon dahil kay Sulli.

“Are you nuts? Why would I do something bad to that lunatic? Nasa hospital siya kasama yung kupal na Vesper. Gusto magpatayan kagabi pero mga weak naman sa alak!” Inis niyang singhal pabalik saakin. Mas lalong kumunot ang noo ko.

“Hospital? What did you do?” Kinabahan ako sa sinabi niya. They’re both in a hospital?

“Magpapatayan nga kagabi diba? Why do you keep blaming me? The doctor said it’s just too much alcohol and fatigue.” Napahawak ako sa noo ko sa sobrang stress. What the fuck they did do last night?

“They have a fucking game tonight and they’re in a fucking hospital? And why the hell are you there? You poisoned them didn’t you? You did something to them!” If all I know he poisoned them so they can’t play because Sulli also can’t!

“Hoy, tinitiis kita kasi close mo si kuya ah. Pero pagbintangan mo ko ng ganyan? Baka ikaw lasunin ko eh! I’ll send you the location if you’re so worried about your friends who clearly have mental problems like you! Goodbye!” Sigaw niya saakin bago ako pinatayan ng tawag. Inis akong tumingin sa selpon.

“Ano raw? Nasaan si Sid?” Agad na tanong ni Quentin nang ibaba ko ang selpon. I looked at them and to my team that’s also has eyes on me. Napabuntong-hininga ako bago hinarap si Quentin.

“Both our captain can’t play today. I have a proposal to make.” Lakas loob kong sabi at lahat sila ay nangunot ang noo saakin.

The world must been on Sullivan side this time.

——

Sulli’s

“Where are you going, Dad?” Mahina ang boses kong tanong nang makita ko ang ama ko na palabas ng malaking pinto ng mansyon namin. Kasama niya ang mga tao niya at mukhang may importante silang pupuntahan. My father looked at me before answering.

“To an important event. Matulog ka nang maaga, don’t think of running away. I’ll be back tomorrow morning.” Madiin niyang sagot saakin bago siya tumuloy na lumabas ng bahay. I watched them disappear before I made my way to his office.

Lilo already died. Gaya nga ng sabi ni Rowan, hindi na nagtagal si Lilo nang makarating ako sa Canada. We spent his remaining days together with my former team before he died two days ago. All of us is still mourning about it, I can still feel the gaping hole in my heart right now at hindi ko siya naihatid sa huling hantungan dahil agad akong ikinulong sa mansyon ng Papa pagkatapos mawalan ng buhay ni Lilo.

He knows I’m only here for Lilo and the moment he died, my father made sure I’m not going back to the Philippines. Ni hindi ko alam kung nasaan ang mga gamit ko pati na rin ang selpon ko. I was so busy with Lilo that I couldn’t even check my phone, hanggang sa makuha iyon ng ama ko at itago pati na rin ang ilan sa mga gamit ko na pwede kong magamit para makontak si Owen o si Sevan. He’s keeping me hostage.

But I won’t let him do this for long. I need to go back to the Philippines. I have a lot of important things I left behind. Unfinished business I need to face.

I tried to open my father’s office but I cursed out loud when it was locked. Napahangos ako nang malalim at kagat labing inisip ang susunod na gagawin. Aalis sana ako ulit para kumuha ng pwede kong magamit para mabuksan ang pinto na iyon nang matigilan ako sa pamilyar na boses na nagsalita sa likod ko.

“You might need this.” I looked at Sebastian with my eyes bloodshot. Sumakit pa ang dibdib ko sa gulat dahil sa biglaan niyang pag sulpot. He’s looking at me and he’s trying to give me a key.

“Seba..” Tanging nasabi ko dahil ngayon ko lamang siya nakita simula nang makabalik ako ng Canada. I didn’t know he came back here. I guess Dad is still keeping him.

“This is the key to tito Stevan’s office. Take it.” Mahina niyang alok. I looked at it and to his face. He looks serious kaya mabilis ko iyong kinuha at binuksan ang pinto. Pagkatapos ay mabilis ko siyang hinila papasok. I locked the door again.

“I didn’t know you came back to this hell hole.” Ani ko habang nagmamadaling lumapit sa mesa ni Dad sa loob ng opisinang pinasok namin. I rummaged through it to look for my phone.

“I had no choice. Sevan executed his plan too well.” Natigilan ako sa sinabi niya.

“You are still onto that? What’s with you and my brother? I thought you loved him.” Irap ko bago muling hinanap ang selpon ko. Lumapit pa ako sa malalaking built in cabinet na narito dahil alam kong hindi dadalhin ni Dad ang phone ko. I know it’s here!

“I thought so too, until I discovered his true intentions.” Ani pa ni Seba.

“Yeah? What’s his true intention?” Sagot ko habang abala pa rin sa paghahanap.

“Nothing new. He’s just your father’s chess piece, like everybody else. Aren’t you curious as to why he let Sevan go to the Philippines?” Itinigil ko ang paghahanap at napatitig sa cabinet na binuksan ko.

I did question that before. I know Sevan has something he’s hiding from me, but that’s not my main concern right now.

“I’m way past that, Seba. I have other more things to think about right now than what you and my brother had.” Mahina kong sagot sakaniya at kinalkal ko ang cabinet na binuksan ko. It was bunch of papers and some random stuff kaya isasara ko na sana iyon nang may makita akong nakapag patigil saakin.

“I’m envious that you already moved on, but I’m also glad that you’re trying to have a different life now.” Narinig ko ang sinasabi ni Sebastian ngunit hindi ko siya pinansin at kinuha ang nakita ko. It was a see through envelope and inside was pictures. Ang nakapagpatigil saakin ay kung sino ang nasa picture na nakita ko. Nagmamadali ko iyong inilabas sa envelope at mas lalong kumabog ang dibdib ko sa nakita.

It was my father when he was still young and he’s with someone who looks exactly like Vesper.

Napapalunok akong pinakatitigan iyon. They look like they’re in a mansion and hanging out. Nanginginig ang mga kamay kong tiningnan pa ang ilan sa mga pictures na iyon. Habang padami nang padami ang nakikita ko ay siyang lagabog ng dibdib ko at panlalaki ng mga mata ko.

“What is that?” I heard Seba but I ignored him.

All of the pictures were my father and definitely Vesper’s father. Ilan sa mga pictures ay nasa isang malaking court sila at naglalaro ng basketball. Ang iba ay mga selfie lamang na alam kong kuha sa isang lumang camera dahil sa kulay nito. They seem so close and I have never seen my father so happy like this. Ilang ulit akong napalunok. Some of the pictures are them lying down on a bed.

They look like lovers. May isang picture kung saan nakatitig ang ama ni Vesper sa ama ko at pamilyar ang mga matang iyon.

That’s how Vesper looks at me.

“What are you looking at?” Sebastian tried to look at the pictures but I immediately put all of it in my pocket. I looked at his face and he’s looking at me with confusion.

“I’m looking for my phone, that and a way out of this mansion. Babalik ako ng Pilipinas. Can you help me?” Lakas loob kong tanong. He stared at me for a moment before sighing.

“Alright. I owe you one, so I will help you this time.” Mahina niyang sabi at napapalunok naman akong tumango. I gave him a small smile before speaking.

“Seba, what we had before, it was all real for me. You weren’t just a fleeting love I had, so moving on from you wasn’t that easy. I was hurt, but I’m glad I overcome it.” Mahaba kong ani sa mahinang boses. I saw how his eyes got filled with emotions that’s been familiar with me. I bitterly smiled at him again.

“You were my first love, but we both know we need to have a different path now. I hope you find what you really want to do and not stick around with my father. You will do great things on your own, Sebastian.” Muli kong sabi at tinapik siya sa balikat. I looked at his face before walking out of that office. Bago pa man ako makalabas ay nagsalita rin siya.

“I will find your phone. Pack your things and I will get you out of here tonight.” I glanced at him and nodded. We stared at each other for a moment and he said something again.

“You were my first love too, Sulli. I hope you get everything that you want in this life.” We both smiled at each other and I know in that moment, I’m more ready to leave everything behind and run forward to the one I need.

I want to go back to Vesper. To the life I have in the Philippines. I feel more alive there than in this big mansion my father wanted me to call home.

Never in my life have I wanted something or someone so greedily that I will give up and risk everything just so I can have it. But I do now.

Natakot ako nung una. Natakot akong madamay sa komplikadong buhay ni Vesper, that’s why I was uncertain of being with him. But I realize, you can’t have something in this world without working hard for it.

I saw how devastated Rowan was when Lilo died, we all are but he’s different, he was the closest to Lilo. He loved him. And now he refused to talk to anyone and all he does is cry his eyes out. I completely understand him, kahit ako ay ilang araw na rin iyak nang iyak. But I had so much to do that crying won’t get it done for me. Isa lang ang nakuha ko sa nangyaring ito.

I need to take the risk or completely lose it. And I’m not trying to lose anything right now, especially Vesper.

I don’t want to lose him because of my fear. I know I said I wanted a completely normal relationship right now without all the dramas and bullshit. But all I could think of when I thought of having someone is Vesper.

Sa takot kong mahulog siya saakin nang tuluyan, hindi ko namalayang matagal na pala akong nauna.

I miss him. I miss the whole team back in the Philippines. It’s really true that you won’t know the real value of someone or something to you until you lose it. I just hope they can understand the decision I made, kahit sana si Vesper na lang muna ang kailangan kong suyuin.

“Are you ready?” Inangat ko ang tingin kay Seba nang binuksan niya ang pinto ng kwarto ko. I nodded at him and we both made our way out of that mansion.

Nang nasa sasakyan na kami ay may inabot siya saakin.

“Here’s your phone. I found it inside your father’s room.” Natuwa ako nang makita ang selpon ko. Agad ko iyong binuksan.

“Thank you. How about you pala? What if my father finds out that you let me out?” Tanong ko habang inaantay na magbukas ang selpon ko dahil mukhang pinatay ito ng Papa.

“I’ll be okay. Your father thinks I fear him the most, he won’t suspect me. Besides, he looks like he also wants you to go.” Natigilan ako sa sinabi niya. I looked at him and he’s also looking at me knowingly.

He’s right. May nagbago sa ama ko. I remember the pictures I saw earlier. Dinala ko iyon ngayon. I want to know more about it after I come back to the Philippines.

Hindi na ako kumibo pa nang makitang bumukas na ang selpon ko. I was about to message Sevan when I saw an old notification. Kunot-noo kong binasa kung kanino iyon galing.

It’s from Sid, and the date it was sent to me was exactly the night we met at the bar. It was an attachment.

Binuksan ko ang message niya at natigilan ako nang makitang mahabang video iyon.

Is this what he’s telling me about? He said he’s going to show me a video.

Napapalunok at kinakabahan ko iyong binuksan.

I can now finally know what Sid’s being mad about.

SR

Rivalry 43

Owen’s

I don’t know why we’re here. That’s the only thing repeating inside my head as I heard the warehouse door closed.

Madilim, tama lang ang mahinang ilaw para maaninag ko ang mga tao sa loob.  I glance at Sid who’s next beside me. He’s just as confused as I am.

Why are we here? Nasaan kami? Who brought us here? Ang huli kong alam ay nasa court kami at nagwawala si Vesper dahil may nalaman siya patungkol kay Sid at Jadeline. Pero mas lalo siyang nagalit nang magkausap sila ni Sid at nabalin ang galit niya kay Jude. Busy ako kakapakiusap sa media na ’wag kuhaan ang nangyayari kaya’t hindi ko nalaman pa ang pinag a-awayan nila.

I just know Vesper is so out of it. He’s so angry about something and I know he doesn’t care about anyone if he’s blinded by rage. We all know he has some anger issues.

Iyon ang huli kong naaalala bago kami napunta rito.  We should be on a basketball court trying to win the championship. Not in this rusty place that looks like a dump.

Muli kong inikot ang tingin kung nasaan kami para aninagin ang mga kasama namin. Nanlaki ang mga mata ko nang makita ko si Vesper.  He’s sitting on a chair several feet away from us. Beside him was his father. Napalunok ako. Kailan pa nakauwi ng Pilipinas si tito Vlad?

“Vesper?” Lakas loob kong tawag sakaniya. He didn’t even turn around. Kausap niya ang ama niyang ganon nanaman ang emosyon sa mukha. He looks like Vesper, but more rough, cold and angry. Ang mga mata niya ang laging puno ng galit. Iyon lamang ang natatandaan ko palagi sa ama ni Vesper. This is my second time seeing him.

Natigilan ako sa pag-i-isip nang kung ano pa nang marinig kong bumukas ang bakal na pinto ng warehouse kung nasaan kami. I looked at who entered.

Two men are dragging someone into the room. Kinakaladkad siya dahil hindi na makatayo nang maayos. I know I turned pale when I saw who it was.

“Jude?” Mahina kong tawag sa pangalan ng kaibigan ko.  Our captain slowly raises his head to look at us. He looks exhausted. His eyes scan the room until he looked at Vesper. Ang sugatan niyang mukha ay namutla lalo.

“Vesper…” Tawag niya kay Ves. Sid and I just watched as he tried to stand to go to Vesper. Wala kaming masabi dahil pareho pa rin kaming naguguluhan sa nangyayari ngayon.

Nagulat lang kami nang isa sa mga tauhan ni tito Vlad ay sinipa si Jude para muli siyang mapahiga sa sahig. Agad akong napatayo para sana tulungan siya ngunit hinarang kami ng ilan pa sa mga lalaking tauhan ni tito Vald. He has a lot of them.

“Stay back.” One of them said.

“But—” I tried to reason out.

“Stay.” I froze when I heard tito Vlad’s voice. Hindi na ako nakagalaw pa sa takot. My heart is pounding so hard it hurts. I looked at Vesper again. He’s staring at Jude now. His face has gone completely pale. He also look scared like us.

Tumayo ang ama niya at lumakad palapit kay Jude na nakahandusay. He slowly walked like he has all the time in the world. He looks scary while doing it. Galit ang mga mata niya ngunit kalmado ang mukha niya. That’s what scary about him. Kalmado ang emosyon sa mukha niya ngunit halata sa mga mata niya ang galit. He stopped in front of Jude and sighs.

“You disappointed me.” Mahina niyang ani. Lahat kami ay hindi nakakibo. Jude suddenly started crying.

“I’m sorry— I’m sorry!” Malakas niyang iyak na parang nagmamakaawa.

“You tried to protect yourself by blaming my son.” Muling sabi ni tito Vlad. He sighed and I stopped breathing when his eyes looked at me and Sid. Tumaas ang dalawang kilay niya at mukhang nabasa niya ang pagtataka naming dalawa sa nangyayari.

“Your friend here, made a big mistake. And unfortunately, I don’t believe sorry can undo mistake.” Mas lalo akong nabato sa kinauupuan nang ngumiti siya nang tipid saamin. I can also hear Sid’s breathing get heavier and faster. He’s panicking.

We both know what he’s capable of doing. Vesper already told us how cruel his father can get.

“W-What did he do? Why are y-you doing this to us?” Matapang na nagtanong si Sid. I can see that he’s almost shaking but he mustered the courage to talk.

“I taught people to fear my name, but somehow.. your friend here forgot about it.” Tito Vlad vaguely answered his question. Ang akala ko ay iyon na iyon ngunit muli siyang nagsalita.

“Is it because you think your family can help you? Or are you really just ignorant about how little of a peasant you are?” He asked Jude who started crying without sounds. Kunot-noo akong papalit-palit ng tingin sakanilang dalawa.

Tito Vlad really looks upset with Jude.

What did he fucking do? I doubt it’s only because he crossed Vesper! I don’t understand any of this. I looked toward Vesper again. His fists are clenched so tightly that his knuckles have turned white.

Kagaya ni Sid, he’s shaking. Almost too little to notice. If I didn’t know him so well, I would’ve missed it.

“Vesper,” I call quietly. His eyes didn’t move. It’s like he can’t hear me. Mas lalong kumunot ang noo ko at pinagmasdan siya.

“The three of you are here to witness what happens to people who’s ignorant enough to involve my family with their nonsense.” Mabigat na ani ni tito Vlad at nanlaki ang mga mata ko nang senyasan niya ang ilan sa mga tauhan niya.

The men step forward and what happened next made all of us stupefied and frozen.

Jude cries out loudly when the men mercilessly tortured him, he’s trying to pull away. His screams were heard through the warehouse.

I flinched and I couldn’t take my eyes off of him. Sid suddenly tried to get near him but one of the men pushed him.

“Stop! Let him go!” Malakas na sigaw ni Sid. Walang nakinig. Nakatitig lamang ako kay Jude na parang isang walang buhay na mannequin kung palu-paluin ng bakal ng mga tauhan ni tito Vlad. But what I noticed most is he’s only looking at one person.

Jude keeps looking at Vesper, not at tito Vlad. Not at anyone in this room, at Vesper.

“Please…” I heard his voice even tho it’s too little to hear. Wala na siyang naging lakas pa nang buhatin siya ng isa sakanila at i-upo sa isang kakaibang upuan. I looked at it so hard while Sid has been screaming nonstop. Nahulog ata ang puso ko sa tiyan nang mapagtanto kung anong klaseng upuan nila ini-upo si Jude.

They’re going to electrify him.

“No! Let him go!”

“Don’t do this! Vesper! Do something!

“What are you doing!?”

“Say something!”

“Stop!”

“Reprimand those idiots.”

“Jude!”

“AAAHHHHH!!!!”

Parehong nanlalaki ang mga mata namin ni Sid na napahandusay sa sahig nang pagsisipain kami ng mga tauhan ni tito Vlad habang patuloy nilang kinukuryente ang katawan ni Jude.

Sid and I couldn’t even care about the pain we are having, napuno na lamang kami ng pag-a-alala at kawalan ng lakas para may gawin.

We were hopeless and I looked at Vesper when I saw some of them grabbed a metal rod to make us quiet. I know they were going to knock us out again.

Bago iyon mangyari ay nakatitig lamang ako kay Vesper na hindi gumalaw sa kinauupuan niya kahit konti. I now understand why Jude was staring only at him.

“Ah!” I was hit at the head by the metal rod together with Sid. Bago pa man ako tuluyang matumba sa sahig ay nakatingin pa rin ako kay Vesper.

He’s drugged to the point he can’t move his body, he didn’t flinch not even once the whole time, he cannot even lift his fingers. He couldn’t really do anything at all.

——

“OWEN!” Napakurap ako sa gitla nang marinig ko ang sigaw ni Sid. I looked at him and sighed heavily when I saw he’s already awake.

I was deep in thoughts because of the ugly memories I suddenly remembered. While I was looking at Sid lying down on this hospital bed, I remembered what we had gone through. Kahit na may alitan pa rin kami ay hindi niyon mabubura ang mga araw na pinagsamahan namin noon.

“Thank God you’re already awake. What the fuck happened?” Lumapit ako sakaniya at nagtanong. Both him and Vesper are still here at the hospital. Magkaiba sila ng kwarto ngunit magkatabi. Hindi ko pa rin alam kung paano sila nagkaganito ngunit nalaman kong si Sevan at Isaac ang naghatid sakanilang dalawa rito.

Isaac is outside Vesper’s room kaya pinuntahan ko na rin si Sid. Ang sabi niya saakin ay kagabi pa nagising si Vesper ngunit may nangyari nanaman rito kagabi habang hawak ang selpon niya.

I couldn’t understand what Isaac was saying but he said Vesper suddenly clutched his head tightly and screamed before passing out. Ang sabi ng mga doktor ay baka sa alak pa rin daw iyon. They’re still doing some test kaya hindi pa kami makapasok ni Isaac sa kwarto niya kanina.

“Why are you here? And why the hell are you spacing out?” Muli akong napatingin kay Sid nang sabihin niya iyon.

“The championship was postponed because the two of you are hospitalized, the players refused to play and the organizers decided to move the schedule. Ano bang ginawa niyong dalawa noong isang araw?” Paliwanag at tanong ko sakaniya. Kumunot naman ang noo niya bago siya akmang u-upo. Agad ko siyang tinulungan ngunit inalis niya lamang ang mga kamay ko.

“The two of us? Noong isang araw? What day is it today?” He confusedly asked. I sighed. So he doesn’t know he came here with Vesper.

“Vesper and you. The doctor said it has to do with too much alcohol intake. It’s been two days since the day of the supposed to be championship day.” Paliwanag ko at mas lalong lumapit sakaniya.

“I can understand why Vesper was drinking too much even tho we had an upcoming match, but why were you drinking a lot? Something happened?” Tanong ko sakaniya at matalas naman ang tingin niya saakin habang parang nag-i-isip sa mga una kong sinabi.

“I don’t care about that bastard. And why are you asking me? Concerned? Hah. Alam mo ang rason ni Vesper? Like fucking always, right? You can understand him but never me.” He suddenly got agitated and spat all of those words. Nagulat naman ako roon bago napailing.

“Sid, you know too well why I took his side. You chose your own path that I couldn’t follow.” Seryoso kong sabi. Nagkausap na kami noong aksidente kaming magkita kasama si Sevan at Isaac. I asked him a favor but he said I didn’t need to say it because he was going to do it anyway.

I guess he’s still upset with me. Inis pa rin naman ako sakaniya pero sa ibang bagay na. He’s too immature. He’s always making the wrong decisions. I tried my hardest to make him come to us before, but he’s too hard headed like a fucking kid going on a rebellion phase.

“But you can follow Vesper? You know what he did, Owen. You saw it with your own eyes, you were there!” Napahangos ako nang magtaas ang boses niya. He just woke up, he’s probably still stressed out and his emotions are in haywire.

“How many times do I have to tell you? Hindi si Vesper ang dapat centro ng galit mo, his father! Sinabi ko na sayo, his father drugged him that’s why he couldn’t do any— fuck!” Nainis na rin ako at napahawak pa sa ulo habang matalas ang tingin sakaniya.

“Sid, kahit na nakakagalaw siya noon, sa tingin mo ba maipagtatanggol niya tayo? Si Jude? You think he can do anything against his evil father? Why can’t you use your brain for once!” Tumaas na rin ang boses ko at nakita ko siyang mas lalong nagalit saakin.

“As usual! Kapag may ginawang mali si Vesper, hindi niya sinasadya! Hindi niya kasalanan kasi wala siyang magawa! If he makes a mistake, it’s because he has some issues. Pero pag ako? You turned your back at me just because I did one mistake!” Sigaw niya pabalik saakin. Napapalunok akong napatitig sa galit niyang mukha bago kinalma ang sarili ko.

“We both know it wasn’t a mistake. It was your decision to turn a blind eye and still be around them. You chose to surround yourself with the wrong people and you know that’s why I loathed you. You even dragged Marga into this mess.” Kalmado kong sagot ngunit pikon niya akong tinawanan.

“What choice do I have, Owen? I was wounded. I was scarred. I surrounded myself with them thinking someone would save me from the misery I’ve been dragged to. But none of you did. And you know I loved Marga, if it just wasn’t for his brother and father. They killed Jude!” I gritted my teeth with what he said.

“Save you? You chose to sabotage yourself thinking we can save you? Fuck. Sid, we were all a victim. Lahat tayo nandon, lahat may nagbago satin dahil sa nangyari. You think we can save you? We were also falling apart, what can’t you understand about that?” Sa galit ko ay kwinelyuhan ko siya.

Sid will never change, he’s always only thinking about himself. He’s self centered and a vengeful bastard. Kahit anong gawin ko ay hinding-hindi na siya ang matalik kong kaibigan noon.

“And Jude is still alive, stop saying his name like he’s already fucking dead.” Malakas kong binitawan ang hawak ko sa suot niyang hospital gown at pikon na tinalikuran siya. Bago pa man ako makalabas ng pinto ng kwarto niya ay may pahabol pa siyang sinabi.

“You keep saying he’s alive but he can’t even open his eyes. You think that shit is called alive?” Hindi ko na siya pinansin pa at malakas kong isinara ang pinto ng kwarto niya. Nagpupuyos ako sa galit na lumakad sa hallway ng hospital bago ako napadpad sa cafeteria ng hospital kung saan sila dinala. Pilit kong kinalma ang sarili ko.

Ano bang hindi maintindihan ni Sid sa hindi pa patay si Jude? He’s in a fucking coma. And yes, I would fucking prefer that and not him inside a fucking casket.

“Sir Owen, have you had your dinner?” Natigil ako sa mabilis na paghangos nang may tumawag saakin. I looked at Isaac and he also came to the cafeteria. Mukhang kakain siya.

“No. Let’s eat and talk.” Agad kong aya. Ako na ang naunang lumakad para bumili ng pagkain at pagkatapos ay naghanap ng mauupuan. Dinala ko siya doon sa walang katabing table na matao. He followed me obediently.

“So, mind telling me what really happened?” Nang makaupo kami at mahawakan ang kutsara ay agad akong nagtanong. He looked at me innocently before speaking.

“Sir Vesper thought Marga was with Sid, nawawala kasi siya noong isang araw pa. Kaya siya sumugod sa Fury, he’s also been drinking for days before that because of sir Sullivan’s departure.” Pinaliwanag niya pa kung paano nawalan ng malay ang dalawa at kung paano siya tinulungan ni Sevan na dalhin sa hospital ang mga ito. Napahangos naman ako roon dahil napagbintangan ko pa si Sevan na may ginawang kalokohan.

“Nakita mo na ba si Marga?” Tanong ko pa. Nilunok niya muna ang pagkain sa bibig niya bago sumagot.

“She ran away, she’s now in Britain. I heard from there that she said she doesn’t want to stay here in the Philippines anymore. Baka raw broken hearted at gusto muna magpakalayo.” Nagulat ako sa huli niyang tinuran habang may maliit na ngisi sa labi. He’s joking. Napakurap-kurap ako roon.

“Did you just threw a weird joke?” Gulat kong tanong at mukhang natauhan naman siya bago muling sumeryoso ang mukha.

“No. I’m sorry.” Nakagat niya pa ang ibabang labi niya na parang may iniisip at nakita ko kung paano namula ang tenga niya dahil roon. I tilted my head while examining his expressions just now.

“You learned that from someone, didn’t you?” Seryoso kong tanong at mas lalo niyang iniwas ang tingin saakin. Pati ang pisnge niya ay namula na rin. I scoffed at it and I don’t know why but it pissed me off to think he’s learning this shit from someone else and he’s actually blushing about it.

Isaac is a man of few words and his english is also deep and formal. For him to crack jokes like this and he’s also talking in Filipino more and more, he’s learning this from someone and I know it’s not from Vesper.

“Who is it? Who did you learn it from?” Pag-usisa ko pa at nakita kong napalunok siya bago sumubo ng pagkain. Iniiwasan akong sagutin. Inantay ko siyang lunukin iyon at ang akala niya ata ay hindi na ako magtatanong ngunit muli akong nagsalita.

“Tell me, Isaac. Who did you learn that from?” Napatingin siya saakin sa gulat na hindi ako tumitigil. Napayuko siya nang makitang seryoso ako.

“I learned it from Sevan Lucien, sir. We started messaging each other this past few days.” Nanghina ako sa inis at pikon nang sagutin niya ako.

That answer just pissed me off ten thousand more.

Sevan Lucien you fucking snake.

SR

A/N: Naisingit pa talaga ang kaharutan

SULLI IS COMING

😝

Pero ito muna gaiz kasi 3am na at may lakad pa ako bukas. I’ll update the next chapter soonest.

Rivalry 44

Sulli’s

“Hah, fuck.” Naibaba ko ang hawak kong bag sa kama ko habang iniisip pa rin ang napanuod ko kanina. I just arrived at the Philippines at dumeretso ako sa condo ko dahil gabi na rin at hindi ko alam kung paano ako magpapakita sa lahat.

I saw it all. I saw how they tortured that guy named Jude. Kitang-kita silang lahat dahil nasa itaas ang camera. I don’t know how Sid got that or why there was a camera in there, pero halatang walang may alam sakanila na kinukuhaan sila ng video. That gruesome scene was unfolded by my own eyes. And now I don’t know what to think about everyone.

Especially Vesper’s father and him. Napaupo ako sa kama at inalala kung ilang ulit ko pinanuod ang video na sinend saakin ni Sid. I watched it multiple times to look at everyone inside that warehouse. And it was so weird that Vesper only sat while everything was going down.

Kung hindi ko siya kilala, I’ll probably think he’s just a fucking psychopath who doesn’t care about what he’s watching. But I know him enough to know there’s something wrong with his body that’s why he can’t move.

Alam din kaya ito ni Sid at Owen? I think Owen knows, I don’t know about Sid. Bakit kay Vesper siya galit na galit? I don’t want to invalidate his hate towards Vesper but all I can think of is he’s barking at the wrong tree. It’s too obvious that Vesper’s father was messing with all of them. It was gruesome and psychologically traumatizing to witness something like that, and if I am not a fan of true crime documentaries, I would’ve puked at the plane when I was watching that. My stomach even went bad because of watching it too much.

Ang tanong ngayon sa utak ko ay bakit ginawa iyon ng ama ni Vesper. Why was he so cruel? What’s the real reason why he did that to Jude? He said Jude blamed his son to protect himself.

Anong binintang niya kay Vesper at bakit nagkaganon ang lahat?

And why can’t Vesper move?

I feel numb right now and I keep thinking of what possible answer I can get when a light bulb popped in my head.

“No way..” Napabulong ako sa hangin.

Maybe the reason why Vesper can’t remember it is not an accident. He couldn’t move in that video, he couldn’t do anything. He’s probably intoxicated by something. Napalunok ako at napakurap-kurap nang makaramdam ng takot sa dibdib ko.

“It wasn’t only Jude that was being tortured that night, it was also for Vesper. His father was torturing his mind..” Mahina kong bulong sa hangin habang nakatitig sa kawalan. Maybe that’s why he was sat like an audience watching a theater play.

Napailing-iling pa ako sa hangin.

Kung tama ang hinala ko ay walang may kasalanan sakanilang magkakaibigan rito. All of them are victims that turned their backs to each other because of the trauma it caused.

Naalala ko pa ang pictures na nakita ko sa opisina ng Papa. I brought it with me incase I need it.

Is he truly my father’s lover before? Hindi ako makapaniwala. Because my father said my only flaw is me being gay. Kung naging karelasyon niya nga ang ama ni Vesper, he’s a fucking hypocrite.

“Fuck. Can everything get messier than this? All of this is fucked.” Mura ko sa hangin. I suddenly feel so stressed. How can they fucking live like this? I can’t even believe it, I don’t even want to believe it but it’s actually real.

They’re all complicated and crazy!

Muli sana akong u-upo sa kama nang may mag doorbell sa condo ko.

“Kuya! Are you there?” Napahangos ako nang marinig na boses iyon ni Sevan. Fuck. Just because of that video I’m now easily frightened by a sound.

“Wait.” Sinagot ko siya at napapailing pa rin na lumakad para pagbuksan siya ng pinto.

Now that I know all of this, I need to seek answers. I can’t be neutral anymore, I’m now so curious and invested about everything.

Kahit naman ata pinili ko pa rin na ’wag malaman ang lahat ng ito. I’m part of their lives, my father, Owen and Vesper. Maiipit na maiipit ako kahit anong iwas ang gawin ko.

Better face it head on than be clueless.

Bago ko buksan ang pinto ay muli akong malalim na napahangos.

How did I find myself at the center of this mess when I’m the one who didn’t want to know about it at first?

It looks like I’m gonna be part of it one way or another. And I don’t even know why and how the hell that will happen.

I don’t know if I should be scared or get ready for what’s about to come.

——

“Do you understand the weigh you put on us because of your sudden decision?” Napalunok ako at nanatiling nakayuko dahil sa tinuran ng coach. Nasa harapan niya ako ngayon at kasama niya ang halos lahat sa team na paiwas kung tumingin saakin. Alam kong lahat sila ay nagtatampo saakin. I didn’t even face them when I made that decision, ipinarating ko lamang iyon nang biglaan kay Owen. I understand if they’re mad at me.

“I’m sorry, Coach. I couldn’t do anything but go back.” Alam naman na nilang lahat kung bakit ako umuwi ng Canada. “I did not intend to abandon the team.” Lalo na at alam kong may upcoming championship noon.

Napahangos ako at napatingin sa teammates ko na agad umiwas ng mga tingin saakin. He’s not here. Kompleto sila kasama si Owen ngunit wala si Vesper. Is he still at the hospital?

Naikwento saakin lahat ni Sevan ang nangyari noong wala ako. They’re crazy. Nawala lang ako saglit ay nagkanda baliw-baliw na sila.

“You are lucky that the situation was on your side. Makakalaro ka pa rin sa championship. But I don’t want you to ever do this again, Turner. At least say it in front of us if you were gonna leave.” I know coach Solis is disappointed but he’s trying to be understanding because my friend just died. Tumango-tango ako sa sinabi niya.

“Yes, Coach. I’ll make it up to the team.” Tipid akong ngumiti at magsasalita pa sana nang may mauna saakin.

“That’s not how easy it is, right?” I felt numb for a moment when I heard that voice I’ve been missing. Nervousness washed over me before I looked at him. He’s standing behind me and I know he meant that line for me but he’s not looking at me at all. He’s looking at coach Solis.

“He needs to be punished, like all of us when we do mistakes. You need to be fair, Coach.” Madiin niyang sabi at napahangos naman ang coach.

“Ves, Sulli had an acceptable reason. He doesn’t need to do that.” Agad na kumontra si Owen ngunit umiling ako.

“It’s okay. I won’t mind a punishment if it means all of you can forgive me for leaving.” I said full of hope that he’s going to acknowledge me, but that didn’t happen. I saw him looked at coach Solis and Coach sighed deeply once again.

“Run suicide drills, both of you.” Naitaas ko ang tingin ko sa Coach ganon na rin si Vesper dahil sa sinabi niya.

“What? Bakit damay ako?” Gulat na tanong ni Vesper.

“You were hospitalized because of your recklessness, hindi natuloy ang championship dahil sainyo ni Sid. What’s gotten into you at uminom ka nang uminom hanggang sa ma-hospital ka? You always behave during NQUL, but not this time.” Hindi nakaimik si Vesper sa tinuran ng Coach. Pinigilan kong matawa dahil sa itsura niya. He looked embarrassed and sulking. Hindi niya inaasahang masermonan rin.

“Both of you start running, the rest of the team, let’s go out to the field. All of you will also run some drills for postponing the game.” Lahat sila ay nagreklamo ngunit walang nagawa kundi sumunod kay Coach. Naiwan kaming dalawa ni Vesper sa gymnasium.

Napalunok ako nang kami na lamang ni Vesper ang nandito. He isn’t looking at me so I opened my mouth.

“Ves, can we talk?” Kinakabahan kong ani. I don’t know why but I feel nervous. Kahit kailan ay wala pa akong sinuyo, I was raised spoiled! Kaya hindi ko alam kung paano ko sisimulan paamuhin si Vesper. Alam kong galit siya at nasaktan siya sa narinig niyang sinabi ko noon.

“Why? What do we have to talk about?” Matigas niyang tanong. Muli akong napalunok nang maramdaman ko ang panlalamig niya.

“You know what I’m talking about, Ves. I want to say my apologies.” Iyon lamang ang nasabi ko. Sa wakas ay tumingin na siya saakin ngunit hindi siya lumapit. His eyes bear no emotions including his whole face. Not the typical Vesper who’s all smiles and full of adoration whenever he looks at me before.

“Ang alin? The one where you told your friend that you don’t plan to have a relationship with me while we both know we are fucking, or the one where you left us so easily to come with him after you promised that you won’t? Alin sa dalawa?” Nakagat ko ang labi ko sa inis niyang tinuran. Damn it. Kahit saang parte tingnan ay ako ang mali. I know I was an asshole but I can’t help but to feel helpless because in my mind I know I had reasons.

“I’m sorry, I’m really sorry. I had reasons why I left, bumalik naman ako diba? Hindi ko binalak ang mga iyon. And a-about what you heard.. I changed my mind about it…” Gusto kong mapamura dahil sa hiya. I feel ashamed to tell him that I changed my mind about having a relationship with him. Pinilit ko iyong lunukin ngunit narinig kong natawa si Vesper.

“You changed your mind? Should I be thankful?” Sarkastiko niyang tanong kaya hindi ko na napigilan ang sarili ko. I hate being helpless like this. I’m so used to always retorting back whether I’m in the wrong or not. A wrong habit of mine that I developed because I was too pampered back in Canada.

“Hey, you should be thankful instead that I didn’t change my mind after I learned some things about you. You think it’s easy for me to like you like this? What I said was the truth, your life is complicated, isn’t it?” Naiinis kong sabi ngunit agad ko iyong pinagsisihan.

Fuck. What am I doing?

Dapat ay sinusuyo ko siya pero wala akong alam kung pano gawin iyon. All my life, I’m always the one who’s getting pursued. Kahit si Seba o ang ama ko ay never kong sinuyo! Mas lalo naman kay Sevan, mas pipiliin n’on lunukin ang pride niya kaysa makipagtalo saakin.

I’m not used to pursue someone like this. What’s more that he’s being an ice cold jerk!

Hindi ko alam kung pano gawin iyon kay Vesper. I should have thought about this more before going back here.

“Learned some things about me? What? Like I’m the monster, I’m the fucking villain, I’m fucking cruel and heartless? I’m always seen like that by everyone, Sulli. You’re not the first. You are no different.” Humakbang siya palapit saakin at hindi ko alam kung bakit ako napaatras. Natigilan siya roon at sarkastikong natawa.

“No one is forcing you to like me anymore. Since you are having a hard time being with me, you don’t have to do it. My life is really complicated but I never once asked you to fix any of my problems, have I?” Napaiwas ako ng tingin sa huli niyang sinabi.

“It’s not like that, I’m not having a hard time being with you.” Mahina kong sabi.

“Don’t fool yourself. That wasn’t what you told that guy. It’s over, I don’t care anymore. Let’s end it, I was a fool for even thinking of being serious with you. You are a guy, and I will always like girls. You are actually right, it will never be serious between us. The thing between us? I don’t like it anymore.” Bumigat ang dibdib ko sa mga tinuran niya at matalas ko siyang tiningan. His cruel mouth is at it again. It’s like hearing Vesper the first time I met him. I hate it.

“Start running drills, I don’t like being around you like this.” Sabi niya pa bago ako tinalikuran. Nakagat ko ang labi ko sa inis. Ang dami niyang sinabi, ako na nga itong nagpapakumbaba! He’s so fucking cruel! Right after I managed to be brave and want to be with him without fear, he’s being difficult!

Inis ko siyang sinundan at inis kong hinawakan ang braso niya para marahas siyang ipaharap saakin. Mukhang nagulat naman siya sa ginawa ko.

“You asshole, you think you can just say that to me and leave? Who the hell do you think you are? I’m telling you I like you and I don’t care about your complicated life anymore, why are you being so difficult? You think I was born to pursue some asshole like you?” Nagugulat namang kumunot ang noo niya saakin. Wala akong naging pakialam at mas hinigpitan ko ang hawak ko sa braso niya.

“I was raised like a porcelain doll, you bastard. Don’t fucking tell me that you will always like girls after having me, because that thought never crossed your mind when your fucking dick was inside me. You jerk, I wasn’t treated like a royalty inside my father’s house for you to hurt me like this!” Gigil kong inilapit ang mukha ko sakaniya.

“I didn’t escape my father back in Canada to go back to an asshole like you, you better start acting right before I crack that head of yours, Vesper Magnus. And can’t you understand that I was scared? I was fucking scared to be part of something so complicated that’s why I said I didn’t wanna be with you, but who am I kidding? I love you, I fucking love you! I can’t do anything but fucking want you!” Napalakas ang boses ko at alam kong rinig iyon sa buong gymnasium.

Hinihingal pa akong matalas na nakatingin kay Vesper na gulat na gulat at pakurap-kurap habang nakatingin sa mukha ko. Parang hindi pa siya makapaniwala sa mga tinuran ko.

“Sul..” Natigilan lang ako nang may tumawag saakin mula sa likod. I looked behind me and I froze in my feet when I saw the whole team, even the coach, behind me.

They’re all looking at me bewildered.

Fuck! They heard everything I said?!

SR

Rivalry 45

Sulli’s

Hindi ako nakaimik at tinanggal naman ni Vesper ang hawak ko sa braso niya.

“What nonsense are you talking about?” Mahina niyang sabi bago umalis sa harap namin at siya ang naunang tumakbo ng drills na inutos saamin ng Coach. Nakatingin naman saakin ngayon ang teammates ko. Napapangiwi akong nainis.

I said a lot of things and that’s only his response?! Seriously, what a jerk. I just confessed my love to him!

“Love naman pala ’e.” Namula ata ang buong mukha ko nang pangunahan ni Julian ang pang-a-asar saakin. I knew it.

“Akalain mo ’yon, swerteng kupal naman ni Vesper.” Tawa ni Simon at nakita ko pang nag middle finger sakaniya si Vesper na tumatakbo pa rin. Hindi naman ako makaimik sa kahihiyan.

“LQ kayo?” Nagsibuwagan na sila at ilan sakanila ay lumapit saakin, ang iba ay kay Vesper. Si Coach naman ay pailing-iling na umalis sa gymnasium.

“Shut up. Akala ko ba sa field kayo mag drills?” Pinanlakihan ko ng mga mata si Wilbert na natatawa pa rin saakin.

“May biglaang lakad si Coach, dito na lang rin daw kami mag practice pagkatapos ng drills niyo ni Vesper.” Paliwanag ni Elias. Suicide drills uses half the court, kung dalawa kaming magsasabay ay occupy namin ang buong court kaya pinalabas sila kanina ni Coach. Nakagat ko naman ang labi ko dahil pinabalik pa talaga sila. Timing nga naman. Talagang kailangan pa nila marinig iyon!

“Sulli, we need to talk.” Biglang lumapit saakin si Owen na hindi maipinta ang mukha habang nakatingin saakin. Umiling ako sakaniya. Alam kong pagsasabihan niya lang ako about kay Vesper.

“Not now, I want to talk with Elias.” Maikli kong sabi at dali-dali kong inakay si Elias palabas ng gymnasium. Tinatawag pa nila ako ngunit hindi ko sila pinansin.

I’ll run the drills later! I want to clarify something with Elias first.

“What’s happening?” Si Elias nang dalhin ko siya sa field malayo sa gym. Patingin-tingin pa ako sa paligid namin bago ko binitawan ang braso niyang hawak ko.

“You lied to me, about what happened with Vesper at the NQUL. Hindi mo sinabi lahat saakin.” Agad kong sumbat. Mukhang nagulat pa siya roon at siya naman ang tumingin sa paligid bago ako inakay mas palayo sa gymnasium. Dinala niya ako sa likod niyon bago niya ako hinarap.

“What are you saying?” Tanong niya kaya naiinis akong napairap sakaniya.

“You told me that Jude and his sister was immediately sent abroad after what happened sa NQUL last year, that wasn’t the truth. I know.” Ani ko sakaniya. He also told me na si Jade ang nakipag break kay Ves, but Sid said that wasn’t true.

“How did you know?” Taka niya. Kunot-noo ko siyang sinagot.

“I found out what really happened with Sid and Vesper, it’s not only because of Jadeline. You purposely left it out, didn’t you?” Akusa ko pa ngunit nagtataka lamang siyang nakatingin sa mukha ko. Natigilan ako roon at pinagmasdan ko ang nagtatanong na mukha niya. Gulat kong nahawakan ang bibig ko.

“No way. All of the things you’ve said to me, iyon lang talaga ang alam mo?” Hindi ko makapaniwalang ani. So it’s more discreet than I thought. I can’t believe this.

“It’s what happened, that’s what we all know, may iba pa bang nangyari na hindi namin alam? And how did you know? Wala ka pa rito nang mga panahon na iyon.” Mas nagtataka niyang sabi. Napailing ako sa sinabi niya.

“I also didn’t want to find out about it, but everyone seems so eager to let me know. Anyway, I’m not the right person to tell you about it. Forget it.” Mahina kong sabi at inaya na siya pabalik sa gymnasium ngunit agad niya akong pinigilan.

“Hey, I told you what I knew before without hesitation. It’s unfair that you won’t tell me.” Napapanguso niyang sabi. Umiling ako.

“It’s too personal for those who’s involved. I really can’t tell you.” Pagmamatigas ko. Sumama naman ang tingin niya saakin.

“Sulli, may atraso ka pa samin. Pinili mo yung Rowan mo over the team. You think hindi ako nagtatampo?” I scoffed at what he said. Natawa pa ako sa itsura niya. Rowan ko?

“Hindi bagay sayo, Elias. Tampo my ass, you’re the very first person I know that will understand my reason. I still won’t tell you so give it up.” I dismissed him pero mahigpit niyang hinawakan ang braso ko.

“How about this, I will tell you something that I couldn’t tell you before. In return, you will also tell me what you know.” He smiled at me mischievously. Pinaningkitan ko siya ng mga mata.

I stared at his face if he’s doing this out of curiosity or what but I can’t figure it out.

“Why do you want to know?” Taas kilay kong tanong. Binitawan niya naman ang hawak saakin bago sumagot.

“Because I’ve been also curious for a long time, kung iyon lang ba talaga ang dahilan nang lahat kung bakit nagkaaway-away silang apat. And maybe the both of us can uncover more if we team up.” Pinakatitigan ko pa siya dahil sa sinabi niya. He looks serious and just really wants to know so I sighed and nodded my head.

I’m also curious of what he didn’t tell me before. And I need someone to be open about everything I just knew or I will explode. Alam kong mapagkakatiwalaan si Elias. He’s the most sane and mature person among the team, second to Owen of course.

“Alright, but not here.” Pagpayag ko at napapangiti naman siyang tumango. I told him to go to my condo later and we will talk about it. Ibinigay ko sakaniya ang address ko at nagplano pa kami ng oras. Pagkatapos ay inaya ko na siya pabalik sa gymnasium dahil may punishment pa akong gagawin.

Naglakad na kami pabalik sa gymnasium ngunit bago pa man kami tuluyang makapasok ay nakasalubong namin si Vesper na nakatingin na agad saamin nang nakataas ang kilay.

“For a guy who just confessed to me in front of everyone, you are so easy to get by another..” Tiningnan niya mula ulo hanggang paa si Elias bago itinuloy ang sasabihin niya. “Pest.” Agad na tumaas ang init ng ulo ko sa sinabi niya saakin.

“Ves, I’m not trying to get in between the two of you. I can assure you that. Stop being immature.” Offended na ani ni Elias. Ako naman ang nagsalita.

“Ang kapal ng mukha mo, just because I confessed my love to you, doesn’t mean you can disrespect me like this.” Naiinis kong sabi at naramdaman ko pa ang pag-i-init ng mga mata ko dahil sa inis. Bumalik nanaman ang pagiging bully niya. He says shitty things and then act like it’s nothing!

I-Iwan ko na sana silang dalawa roon ngunit agad akong hinawakan sa braso ni Vesper. I glared at him but he’s looking at Elias. Nakita kong sinenyasan niya itong iwan kami kaya agad na pumasok si Elias sa gymnasium. He looked at me with sympathy before walking away. Kagat-kagat ko naman ang labi ko sa pagpipigil na bigwasan si Vesper.

Nang makaalis si Elias ay hinila niya ako palayo sa gymnasium. Dinala niya ako sa school park kung saan walang tao dahil weekend ngayon. I didn’t look at him and just let him pull me. Marahan niya akong ihinarap sakaniya. Hindi pa rin ako tumingin sakaniya dahil bumigat ang dibdib ko sa mga sinabi at inaakto niya kanina pa.

Alam kong may kasalanan ako sakaniya, pero hindi ako sanay na ganituhin niya ako pagkatapos nang lahat na nangyari sa pagitan namin.

I feel so pitiful.

“Kung ayaw mong napagsasalitaan kita ng ganon, ’wag kang akay nang akay ng lalaki basta-basta. What do you want me to think? Na nagbulongan lang kayo sa likod ng gymnasium? Are you really that dense?” Madiin niyang sabi. Hindi ako makapaniwalang tumingin sa mukha niyang galit. I glared at him. Hindi ako makapaniwala sa mga lumalabas sa bibig niya ngayon.

“Are you kidding me? Anong akala mo sa’kin? Hindi porke sinabi kong gusto kita, gaganituhin mo na ako. Hindi porke may kasalanan ako sayo, kakawawain mo ako nang ganito. Who do you really think you are?” Marahas kong inalis ang hawak niya sa braso ko. He’s still looking at me without any emotions in his eyes.

“You know what, forget it. I hate you. I fucking hate you. Don’t even think you can call me names just because I’m with someone else, I can fuck whoever I want!” Galit kong singhal sakaniya ngunit agad niya akong hinawakan sa magkabilaang braso. Mahigpit iyon at marahas kaya nagitla ako. I looked at him with wide eyes and he’s also looking at me with rage in his eyes. Biglang pumasok saakin ang imahe ng ama niya sa video na pinanuod ko. Nabalot ako ng takot dahil roon.

“L-Let go of me.” Halos manginig ang boses ko ngunit hindi niya ako binitawan.

“Try making somebody else see your naked body, and I will fucking kill that person right in front of you, Sullivan.” Banta niya at hindi ako nakaimik roon. I stared at his face while fear is penetrating my whole system. He looks so serious and ready to kill.

Mukhang natauhan naman siya nang sunod-sunod na bumuhos ang luha sa mga mata ko habang nakatitig pa rin sakaniya. His gaze softened at binitawan niya ang hawak saakin. Napapalunok kong pinunasan ang pisnge ko.

“Damn you, Vesper. If you are not going to accept me anymore, just say it. Tinakasan ko ang ama ko para makabalik sayo, pero hindi ibig-sabihin n’on ay hahayaan kitang bastusin ako nang ganito.” Halos masugat ko ang labi ko sa patuloy kong pagkagat roon dahil sa inis, sakit at takot na nararamdaman ko.

Ang akala ko ay hindi nag-iba ang tingin ko kay Vesper, but his face resembles his father’s rage in that video just now. It scared me.

Pero bakit ganon? Kahit na natakot ako, I’m still hopeful to be with him.

“Dry your fucking tears. Kawawain? Ako ba hindi mo kinawawa nang paasahin mo ako na may seryosong namamagitan saatin? Was I not pitiful enough when you left me so suddenly? Kahit ano pang rason mo, I don’t care. You should’ve treated me right and accepted me when I was being good to you, hindi ngayon na wala na akong tiwala sayo.” Kahit na lumambot ang mga tingin niya saakin ay mas naging marahas ang mga lumalabas sa bibig niya. I bit my lip before looking at his face full of indifference.

“If you want me to soften up to you, you’re gonna have to work and beg for it.” Mayabang niyang ani. I scoffed in annoyance.

“As if, I fucking hate you.” Mariin kong sabi. He suddenly smirked at me. Nagulat pa ako nang punasan niya ang mga luha sa pisnge ko.

“You’re saying that while looking at me so pitifully? You want me, you can’t deny that.” Aniya sa mahinang boses habang pinupunasan ang mga luhang tumulo galing sa mga mata ko.

“You’re so full of yourself. What makes you think I won’t like somebody else other than you?” I taunted him again kahit na natakot na ako sa ginawa niya kanina. I just can’t help but to retort!

“Because you know I will literally kill somebody if you do that. You don’t want the love of your love to be in prison, right?” Halos mapairap ako sa kayabangan niya. Hindi ako makapaniwalang tinitigan siya. He keeps telling me he doesn’t want me to be with somebody else but he was also pushing me away earlier. Hindi ko siya maintindihan.

“Are you playing with me?” Singhal ko. Muling sumeryoso ang mukha niya at umiling saakin.

“No. Since you knew that you made a mistake, you just have to take whatever I do to you. Gusto mong makabawi diba? Then stop whining and just take it.” Tinaas niya ang kilay saakin. I gritted my teeth and I couldn’t help it anymore. Itinaas ko ang kamay ko at malakas ko siyang sinapak. Sa sobrang lakas niyon ay nabaling ang mukha niya sa gilid. Shock was all over his face and it satisfied me.

“Alright, sure. I’ll fucking do that.” Mariin at sarkastiko kong sagot bago ko siya nagmamadaling tinalikuran at umalis roon. Dumeretso na ako palabas ng campus sa takot na baka sundan niya pa ako.

I wanted him to forgive me but he’s just too much! He’s a fucking asshole!

How could I forget that he was also like this the first time I met him? Nabago lamang iyon nang aminin niyang gusto niya ako at may nangyayari na saamin.

He was so sweet to me when he was fucking me and now he’s a complete douchebag!

Inis akong pumara ng taxi habang siya pa rin ang iniisip.

Ang kinaiinisan ko na ngayon ay ang sarili ko. I am really hating him right now, sapat na sana iyon kung hindi lang rin tumitibok ang puso ko para sakaniya!

I still fucking want him even after the shitty stunt he pulled. I really fucking have a bad taste in men.

——

Nakanguso kong sinusuklayan ang mahaba kong buhok habang nakatingin sa vanity mirror ko. Katatapos ko lamang maligo. Gabi na at hindi pa rin mawala sa isip ko ang mga nangyari kaninang umaga.

I don’t know if I should just do whatever Vesper wants or try to piss him off more. Alam ko namang may kasalanan ako sakaniya, pero sobra naman ata ang ginagawa niya saakin.

He’s cruel. Alam ko na dapat iyon unang kita pa lamang namin. Yet I still fell for his ass personality.

Gigil kong kinuha ang blower ko para itutok iyon sa basa kong buhok.

Kung hindi lang siya gwapo at malaki ang itinatagong armas, talagang hindi lang iyong sapak ang makukuha niya sakin!

“Fuck.” Mura ko sa sobrang inis. No way I will just willingly take whatever he wants me to take. I will not put up with that disrespect!

“I’m too pretty for that.” Sabi ko pa sa sarili ko habang pinagmamasdan ang sarili sa salamin. It’s his loss!

Tumayo na ako at nag lotion pa. Nakabihis na ako nang pantulog na pajama shorts at shirt dahil ready na talaga ako magpahinga.

What happened earlier exhausted me.

Iyon sana ang balak kong gawin nang tumunog ang doorbell ng condo ko. I looked at the door at hindi ako lumapit roon hanggang sa nagsalita ang nasa labas.

“Sul, this is me. Are you there?” Nakahangos naman ako nang maluwag nang marinig ang boses ni Elias. Right. I forgot I invited him over so we can talk properly.

Agad ko siyang pinagbuksan ng pinto at mukhang nagulat pa siya nang makita ako. He looked at me from head to toe kaya kumunot ang noo ko.

“What?” I asked.

“Uh, nothing. You just look so different with your attire.” Nahihiya pa niyang sabi. Tiningnan ko naman ang sarili kong suot.

Wala naman bago roon. Maybe this is the first time he saw me like this. Nakalugay ang mahaba kong buhok at naka pajamas lamang.

“Come in.” Aya ko sakaniya bago ko nilakihan ang awang ng pinto. Pumasok naman siya at nang maisara ko ang pinto ay umupo kaming pareho sa sofa.

“You first, or me?” Agad kong tanong dahil gusto ko na rin talaga ito matapos agad. Natawa naman siya sa pagmamadali ko.

“Ikaw na mauna. Anong alam mo?” Tanong niya. Kinuha ko naman ang selpon ko at sinenyasan ko siyang lumapit saakin. He did what I told him and I played the video for him. Agad namang tumutok ang mga mata niya roon habang napupuno ng curiosity ang mukha niya.

He almost spent an hour watching the video without saying anything. Hinayaan ko lamang siya hanggang sa nanghihina niyang ibinalik saakin ang selpon ko.

“I can’t believe it.” Mahina niyang sabi habang nakatitig sa kawalan. Namutla rin siya. Ganoon na ganoon ang itsura ko nang una kong mapanuod ang video.

“So you mean, hindi ito alam ng buong team? Si Vesper at Owen lamang ang nakakaalam?” Tanong ko. He slowly nodded.

“Who did you get that from?” Taka niya.

“From Sid.” Kinwento ko sakaniya ang nangyari at naging pag-u-usap namin ni Sid kaya ibinigay niya saakin ang video na iyon.

“So that’s why he hates Vesper so much.” Bulong niya bago tumingin saakin. “Iyon lamang talaga ang alam namin. Hindi na nakaabot saamin ang totoong nangyari sakanilang apat. Like what I’ve told you, Vesper didn’t talk about it anymore like nothing happened. Wala rin kaming lakas loob na magtanong sakaniya.” Seryoso niyang sabi. I nodded at him.

I wanted to tell him that Vesper actually forgot about it, pero hindi ko na iyon sinabi pa.

“So, ano yung hindi mo sinabi saakin noon?” Tanong ko. Lumapit naman ulit siya saakin. His fingers fidgeted before looking at me.

“Don’t tell anyone that I’m the one who told you.” Sabi niya pa kaya tumango naman ako. He sighed before calming himself and speaking. Napupuno na rin ako ng curiosity dahil sa inaakto niya.

“Vesper’s family, I found out from Marga that they’re part of some big important family name back in Britain.” Mahina niyang sabi at agad nama akong nagtaka roon. My eyes squinted.

“Big family name? From Marga?” Taka ko dahil napaka maldita ng kapatid ni Vesper na iyon. Tumango siya at parang kinakabahan pa. Muli siyang lumapit saakin na halos magkapalit na kami ng balat. He’s acting like someone is gonna hear us inside my condo.

“Actually, I had a relationship with Marga. It’s not that serious, I guess you can say that we just shared body heat from time to time. Minsan pareho kaming lasing, nabanggit niya saakin kung bakit napaka importanteng tao ni Vesper para sa ama niya. She didn’t elaborate but she told me they’re part of a royal household.” Nawindang naman ako sa inamin niya saakin at sa sinabi niya. Royalty household? And I didn’t fucking know he has this personality. Sharing body heat with Marga? Sabagay, lalaki lang rin siya. Men are horny dogs.

Napaisip pa ako sa sinabi niya at naalala ko si Isaac noong minsan ay ipagluto niya ako ng steak.

Is that why he talks like that?

Kumalabog ang dibdib ko.

“And she also said something that I couldn’t forget.” Muling nagsalita si Elias. I looked at him with a questioning look.

“Jude was an idiot, he did something that weakened my brother’s claim to his inheritance. I’m actually wondering why father still let him live.” Pareho kaming napalunok ni Elias sa tinuran niya.

We looked at each other knowingly.

So that’s what Vesper’s father talking about when he said Jude did a mistake that couldn’t be fixed with an apology.

Iyon ba ang rason kung bakit ginawa iyon ng ama ni Vesper? It must be. Napailing ako.

I don’t even know what kind of emotion I should be expressing or feeling right now. I feel so confused. Is Vesper a royalty in Britain? Is he really that important?

Pero kung ganon, bakit siya nandito sa Pilipinas? Why is his father letting him live his life here in the Philippines? May rason ba sila?

Nakagat ko ang labi ko. Ever since I met Vesper, my life has been full of confusion and surprises. He’s stirring my life so hard. And now I’m so curious of everything about him.

Should I ask him?

Pareho kaming nag-i-isip ni Elias nang tumunog ang pinto ng condo ko. Someone was trying to open it with the passcode. Hindi kami agad nakagalaw ni Elias dahil pareho ata kaming kinabahan nang bumukas ang pinto. We were both frozen from being scared at nagkahawakan pa kami sa braso dahil roon. Mas lalo pang kumalabog ang dibdib ko nang makita namin si Vesper. Parehong nanlaki ang mga mata namin ni Elias.

Shit! Why is he here?!

“I warned you, Sullivan.” Binalot ng takot ang kabuoan ko nang sabihin niya iyon habang matalas ang tingin kay Elias.

SR

A/N: Sulliii, can u really afford to piss Vesper off

😧

Dapat may isang chapter pa ’to pero hindi gumagana charger ko rn huhuhu kakabili ko lng nito kainis pa deadbat na ako

😭

Rivalry 46

Sulli’s

Pareho kaming tumayo ni Elias at mabilis ko siyang hinila para itago sa likod ko. Mas lalong naging galit ang mukha ni Vesper at mas lalo naman akong kinabahan nang humakbang siya palapit saamin.

“It’s not what you think it is!” Inis at kabado kong sigaw at sinalubong ko siya para pigilang makalapit kay Elias na nagugulat lamang na nakatingin saaming dalawa. Vesper looked at me and to Elias. I hugged his waist tightly so he can’t get near him.

“It’s not what I think it is? Iyong sa likod pa nga lang ng gymnasium ay pinagsabihan na kita, so you think I will think differently if I saw him hovering around you inside your fucking condo?!” Galit niyang sigaw at umaktong susugurin si Elias. Mas hinigpitan ko ang yakap ko sakaniya para pigilan siya. He’s drunk! I smelled the alcohol from his mouth when he yelled. Mas lalo akong kinabahan doon.

“Ves, calm down. We were just talking about something.” Mahinahon ngunit halata rin ang kaba na sabi ni Elias. Vesper scoffed at him while I’m still holding him.

“Talking while being so close and holding each other so tightly? Are you fucking kidding me? I’ll fucking kill you, Elias!” Mas lalong pumwersa si Vesper upang makalapit kay Elias ngunit mas hinigpitan ko ang yakap sakaniya. Kung hindi siya lasing ngayon ay alam kong wala akong laban sa lakas niya. I can just be thankful that he’s drunk.

“Go! Get out! I’ll deal with him.” Pinanlakihan ko ng mga mata si Elias na pabalik-balik ang tingin saaming dalawa. Napapalunok siyang napatitig kay Vesper na nakatingin rin sakaniya.

“Just fucking go! He will kill you!” Sumipa-sipa pa ako sa hangin para paalisin siya at saktong pumwersa si Vesper na lapitan siya. Napamura ako nang mabitawan ko siya. Sabay kaming tatlo na tumakbo. Si Elias palabas ng condo ko na hinahabol ni Vesper at ako naman ay hinahabol siya para pigilan.

“Shit. Close the door!” Sigaw ko nang makita kong malapit na makalabas si Elias. Lalo pa akong napamura nang maabot ko si Vesper ngunit agad akong nadapa. Kahit masakit iyon ay mahigpit kong hinawakan ang paa niya upang hindi niya masundan si Elias.

“Sullivan!” Galit pang sigaw ni Vesper at matalas na tiningnan ako. Hindi ko siya pinansin at pinanuod kong makalabas si Elias at agad niyang isinara ang pinto. Nakahinga ako nang maluwag ngunit hindi ko pa rin siya binitawan.

“The hell are you doing?” Muli niyang matalas na ani. Hingal naman akong hindi siya pinansin. He gritted his teeth and helped me get up. Hinawakan niya ako sa magkabilang kili-kili at inangat ako patayo. Kagat-labi ko siyang inis na tiningnan.

“I should be the one asking you that. What the hell are you doing in my condo? At talagang binabalakan mo pa si Elias!” Sigaw ko sakaniya. He looked at me like he couldn’t believe what I just said.

“Kung may nagbabalak rito, kayo ’yon ni Elias! What the fuck is he doing here?!” Mas malakas ang sigaw niya saakin. Nakagat ko ang labi ko bago ko siya tinulak sa dibdib.

“Why the hell do you care so much? Huh? I told you, hindi mo ako pagmamay-ari. Kahit pa gusto kita, you don’t have the right to control me!” Galit at takot ang nararamdaman ko ngayon. Takot na may gawin talaga siya kay Elias na pagsisisihan niya at galit na ipinagdadamot niya ako pero ayaw niya rin akong akuin. Nangilid ang mga luha sa mga mata ko. He tilted his head at me like he’s amused.

“Didn’t you say you want to know me more before? Sulli, this is me.” Natigilan ako nang hawakan niya ang braso ko at sabihin iyon sa seryosong boses.

“If you want to be mine, if you want to have a relationship with me, you need to accept who I am.” Mas inilapit niya ang katawan niya saakin. “I am controlling, I am easily jealous, I need to own you whole and I lose my mind if you don’t do what I say. Still want me to be yours alone? Then you need to accept me as I am.” He taunted and I gritted my teeth.

He’s so fucking toxic. He’s right, I knew from the very beginning that he isn’t the typical gentleman everyone dreams about. He’s a mess. But I still fucking fell for him.

Ano pa nga ba ang magagawa ko? He made me love him too much.

“You’re crazy.” Tanging nasabi ko. He smiled and caressed my cheeks. Pinunasan niyang muli ang mga luha ko.

“You still love me. Who’s crazier?” Naiwas ko ang galit kong tingin dahil wala akong masagot roon.

All of what he said was fucked up. But I think I really am fucked up too if I am okay with him doing all of that so we can be both with each other. I’m the crazy one.

“I fucking hate you, Vesper.” I said with gritted teeth but he just chuckled at me before pulling me towards him and claiming my mouth. Marahas niya akong hinalikan at wala akong nagawa kundi manlaban.

“Hmm!” He gripped my hair and put his tongue inside my mouth when I accidentally opened it. I closed my eyes tightly when his tongue searched inside my mouth. It’s hot. His mouth is warm and I can taste the alcohol and sweetness in his mouth. Maybe I am really too easy or I just miss him, pero agad akong nalasing sa marahas niyang halik.

“Ah..” Ungot ko nang i-angat niya ako para kargahin. Ipinulupot ko ang braso ko sa batok niya at ang legs ko sa bewang niya. He’s holding me tightly on my waist and still gripping my hair. Nagpakasasa kami sa halikan kahit umupo na siya sa sofa at kinandong niya ako ay hindi pa rin napatid ang halikan namin.

“Vesper…” Ungot ko nang sa wakas ay bitawan niya ang mga labi ko para makahinga. Nakagat ko ang labi ko nang titigan niya ang mukha ko habang ang dalawang kamay niya ay nakahawak sa dalawang binti ko. He’s caressing my thighs up to my groin. I bit my lips trying not to groan for him.

Muli niyang ibinaba mula sa singit ko ang mga hawak niya pababa sa tuhod ko. He looked at it softly and also caressed it softly. Mapula iyon dahil sa pagkatumba ko kanina. He didn’t say anything but I felt cared for. Napalunok ako roon.

Why am I so fucking weak when it comes to his touches?! I’m losing my mind.

“You dare to let that bastard enter your room while looking so delectable? You were ought to piss me off, weren’t you?” Muli siyang tumingin sa mukha ko. Humigpit ang kapit ko sa batok niya nang tuluyan niyang hawakan ang naninigas kong ari habang sinasabi iyon. He gripped it while still looking at my face. Umiling ako sakaniya.

“What can I do? I always look delectable.” Lakas loob kong asar sakaniya and he scoffed a chuckle while looking at me pissed.

“Sulli, I’m so gonna lock you the fuck up.” He said with gritted teeth before humping on me.

“Hm!” Ungot ko nang tumama ang katigasan niya sa pang-upo ko. He smirked at me before pulling my pants off.

“Vesper!” Saway ko ngunit sinabunutan niyang muli ang buhok ko at hinila ang ulo ko palapit sakaniya bago niya ako hinalikan. We kissed aggressively again while he’s pulling down my pants.

“I’m going to fuck you so hard you’re not gonna walk tomorrow, Sullivan.” Banta niya at kinagat ko agad ang labi niya.

“Shit! Sulli!” Inilayo niya ang mukha saakin at agad na hinawakan ang dumugo niyang labi bago masama ang mga matang tumingin saakin. I was the one who smirked at him this time.

“You’re really so full of yourself, Captain. I’m gonna fuck you first.” Gigil kong ani at ako na mismo ang humalik sakaniya. We are ravishing each other’s mouth while I am unbuckling his belt and opening his zipper. Nagmamadali ko ring hinubad ang suot niyang shirt bago ko ibinaba ang suot niyang pang-ibaba. I licked my lips when I saw his huge cock once again.

I fucking miss that huge dick inside me.

“You miss it?” Angat kilay ni Vesper saakin. Inirapan ko siya at muling sinunggaban ang labi niya. I can’t just get enough of his sweet lips. Habang naghahalikan kami ay hinawakan ko ang katigasan niya. I pulled it up and down and he immediately groaned.

“Fuck.” He cursed in between our kisses. I’m also already losing my mind with anticipation.

“I don’t have lubes and condoms.” Mahina kong ani. He chuckled before getting his pants that was already on the sofa beside us.

“I’m always ready for you, baby.” Sabi niya at may inilabas siyang ilang pakete ng lube. That’s all he had so I knitted my brows at him.

“No condoms? And why do you always carry lubes?” Taka ko dahil hindi naman kami maayos. Kung dati ay hindi na ako magtataka. He’s a horny dog. He always fuck me wherever and whenever he wants. Hindi ko na mabilang kung ilang beses niya ako ginalaw sa loob ng kotse niya sa tuwing ihahatid niya ako.

“You think I came here expecting to see that bastard Elias? I came here to fuck your brains out after you slapped the hell out of me earlier this morning.” His stern voice was at it again. I bit my lip and he opened all of the sachets of lubes with his teeth. Pagkatapos ay hinila niya ang itaas ng katawan ko upang makatuwad ako at maibuhos niya ang lubes sa entrada ko.

“It’s been a while, I’ll fuck you raw.” He sexily whispered and it made me weak again. Fuck. Why is he so damn hot.

Isinandal ko ang ulo ko sa balikat niya nang tuluyan niyang ibuhos ang lahat ng lubes sa pwerta ko. He was about to put his hands on my hole but I pulled his hands away from it.

“No. I said I will fuck you. I’ll put it in right away.” Mahina at humahangos kong ani. He looked at me amused but his face is full of lust. Umupo siya nang maayos at ibinaba ang mga kamay niya para hayaan akong gumalaw. Sumandal rin siya sa sandalan ng sofa bago itinaas ang mga kamay para ilagay sa ilalim ng ulo niya. His arms flexed and his big muscles made me swallow again. He’s so fucking hot right now, looking at me waiting patiently for my move while looking so horny. Ang sarap niyang tingnan lalo na at nakikita ko rin ang kili-kili niya at ang maninipis na buhok roon na kakulay ng buhok niya sa ulo.

I bit my lips and I couldn’t help but put my tongue out to lick his closed lips. He stared at my eyes when I did that. We stared at each other for a second before we opened our mouth in unison and kissed while still remaining our positions.

Habang naghahalikan kami ay inayos ko ang pagka-kandong sakaniya at hinawakan ko ang kalakihan niya mula sa likod. I am so wet from the lube and it made me feel more horny. Itinutok ko ang ari niya sa pwerta ko at dahan-dahan ko iyong pinilit na maipasok sa kasikipan ko.

“Uh!” We both groaned when the tip of his cock has finally entered me. Nahirapan ako roon kahit na sobrang dulas na ng kasikipan ko dahil sa dami ng lube na inilagay niya. Napapahangos kong ipinatong ang noo ko sa noo niya bago ko dahan-dahan inupuan ang ari niya.

Both of our mouth opened while we are watching my hole eat up his huge cock.

“Fuck, Sulli..” Hangos niya at hindi ko napigilan mapaungot. Humigpit ang pagkakahawak ko sa balikat niya.

“Uh, shit!” I gritted my teeth when he suddenly thrusted in me. Nasagad ang ari niya sa loob ko at pareho kaming napaungot roon. Fuck! It immediately hit all of my spots inside.

“Go on, fuck me like you promised.” His sexy baritone voice is at it again. Kagat-labi akong nakipag-titigan sakaniya habang inaayos ko ang upo sa ibabaw niya. I put my hands on his shoulders and he also held me on my small waist. Nang makabwelo ay agad akong gumalaw upang umindayog sa ibabaw niya. I started riding his dick and he immediately hissed.

Fuck! Napamura ako sa isip nang paulit-ulit akong umindayog sa ibabaw niya.

“Ohh! Fuck.” Ungol ko at bukang-buka ang bibig ko habang napapasara sa sarap ang mga mata ko. His dick smoothly glided between my tightness. Because of so much lube, rinig rin ang pagsasalpukan ng pwerta ko at ari niya. Mas lalo iyong nakadagdag sa init ng katawan na pareho naming nararamdaman ngayon.

He gripped my hair again and pulled my face near him. We stared at each other while both of our face are full of lust. Hindi ko itinigil ang pag indayog sakaniya dahil miss na miss ko iyon. Nakagat ko ang labi ko habang ipinapakita sakaniya kung gaano ako nasasarapan ngayon. Kita ko kung paano napuno ng gigil ang mukha niya.

“Harder. Bounce harder and deeper, Sullivan.” He said with a gritted teeth. I smugly smiled at him and did what he asked for.

“Ohh! Oh! Vesper!” Hindi ko na napigilan pa ang mga ungol ko at tuluyan akong nilamon ng init ng katawan. The heat flowing inside my body made me so horny and I couldn’t think straight anymore while I’m riding his huge cock. Nang bitawan niya ang buhok ko ay lumiyad ako habang mas binibilisan at mas isinasagad ang ari niya sa loob ko.

“Oh… I miss this, baby.” He let out a manly moan and gripped my waist so he can guide me. Mas lalo kong ginalingan sa ibabaw niya hanggang sa pareho na kaming nawawala sa ulirat dahil sa sarap.

“Fuck! Fuck!” Malalakas niyang mura bago niya natuonan ng pansin ang dibdib ko at marahas iyong sinipsip at kinagat-kagat. Hindi ako natigil kahit na naluluha ako sa sobrang lunod sa sarap na ibinibigay ng ari niya.

“Vesper! Fuck! Magnus! Ohh! Oh!” I couldn’t keep my mouth shut as I am already feeling ready to burst. My body trembled when he hardly bit my nipple and I finally came.

Agad niya akong inalalayan when I convulsed in pleasure on top of him.

“Ohh!” Malakas kong ungol and I collapsed on top of him. Hindi pa ako nakakabawi ay agad na siyang gumalaw at hinugot ang ari saakin. Muli akong napaungot roon more especially when he manhandled me so I can get on my knees and he stood up in front of me. Dahil nga hindi pa ako nakakabawi ay naging mabilis ang lahat sa mga mata ko.

He jerked his huge dick in front of my face and he ejaculated, nasalo iyon lahat ng mukha ko at dahil napabuka ang bibig ko sa gulat ay ilan roon ay pumasok. I got a taste of his cum.

“Fuck. Beautiful.” He groaned and pulled me to stood up again. Gulat na gulat akong nakatingin sakaniya at inis ko na sana siyang sisinghalan nang mabilis niya akong ipatalikod at itulak papunta sa pader ng condo ko. He pinned me against the wall and gripped my hair again. Napaungot ako roon.

“I’m not done with you, brat. I told you, you are not gonna walk tomorrow.” He whispered in my ears and plunged inside me.

“Oh! No! Captain!” Malakas kong ungol dahil muli niyang isinagad saakin ang ari niya. He pulled my waist while still gripping my hair and he thrusted again and again while half of my face is against the wall. Puno pa rin ng tamod ang mukha ko dahil sakaniya. It made me feel more in heat.

“Shit! Shit! I’m gonna ruin you, Sullivan.” Gigil niyang ani at patuloy na inilabas masok saakin ang kalakihan niyang hindi man lang ata lumambot pagkatapos niyang labasan.

How could I forget that he’s a fucking beast in bed!

But I’m not fucking regretting it. Mas inayos ko pa ang pang-upo ko upang mas maayos niyang matira iyon. I tried to glance at him and his face is to die for.

He looks so hot right now. His eyebrows are knitted while looking down at our privates, he’s not stopping even tho his dirty-blonde hair is already wet from his sweat. His groaning face full of desire is making me so proud and horny.

The great fucking Vesper Magnus is fucking me like his life depends on it. How can I not be proud of myself?

“Fuck me. Oh! Fuck me harder, Captain!” Udyok ko sakaniya at nakita kong mas lalo siyang nanggigil saakin. Kagat-labi niya akong tiningnan and I didn’t have any shame on me right now to hide away my pleasured face. I showed him how much I’m loving his rough nature. His rough touches and rough fucking. I love everything about it.

“Ruin me like you said, Vesper. I’ll take it all like how you wanted me to. I love you.” I couldn’t help but say. He paused for a moment and glared at me. I looked at his handsome face in dazed. Napapikit ako at napaungot nang mas lalong humigpit ang sabunot niya saakin.

“Don’t fucking provoke me, Sullivan.” Seryoso niyang sabi bago ako hinila papunta muli sa sofa. Itinulak niya ako roon habang hindi pa rin hinuhugot ang ari saakin. Napahawak ako sa sandigan ng sofa habang ang mga paa ko ay nakatapak pa rin sa sahig. I looked at him from behind and he’s staring at me while fixing his wet hair with his hands. He looks so hot while doing it. Like a sexy model.

“I didn’t know you are a masochist, baby.” He smirked at me while still fixing himself. He’s so damn hot. Damn it. I’m losing it.

“And you are a sadist. Don’t ever belittle a virgin who you popped, Vesper.” Mayabang ko rin na ani. He chuckled before glaring at me.

“Say it again.” Utos niya.

“What?” I asked. Inilapit niya ang mukha saakin at malakas na umisang ulos. “Oh!” Agad na nanginig ang mga binti ko sa ginawa niya. He kissed a part of my face that doesn’t have his cum. Kinuha niya pa ang shirt niyang hinubad na nasa sofa at pinunasan ang mukha ko bago ako sinagot.

“Say you love me.” Mahina niyang sabi. Natigilan ako roon dahil nagbago ang tono ng boses niya. Kung kanina ay payabang iyon, ngayon ay parang nakikiusap siyang marinig ulit iyon. I looked at his face and gave him a genuine small smile.

“I love you. I love you a lot, Vesper.” I whispered while still looking at him. I saw how his face got washed by happiness and his lips couldn’t help but form a small smile. Mukhang pinipigilan niya pa iyon.

“Good. You are all mine, Sulli. There’s no going back.” My heart sunk when that’s all he replied.

Where’s my fucking I love you too?

Itatanong ko na sana iyon nang magsimula ulit siyang marahas na umulos saakin. Naipatong ko ang noo ko sa sandigan ng sofa sa panghihina. I tried to glare at him again.

“That’s all?! Oh! Fuck you!” Inis kong ungot. He chuckled at me while still pounding my ass.

“I’ll say my affection out loud for you once you behave enough. Not now, that’s too easy for a masochist like you.” Asar niya saakin. Hindi ako makapaniwalang napatitig sa mayabang niyang mukha.

Ano pa bang klaseng behave ang gusto niya?!

“You jerk!” Ngumisi lamang siya saakin at inilapit ang mukha saakin. He paused his thrusting.

“You said you are gonna take it all, baby. And I don’t take backsies.” Asar niya sa mukha ko. Mabilis kong inilapit sakaniya ang bibig ko at kinagat muli ang labi niya. It bled and I tasted it.

“Fuck you!” Gigil kong ani nang bitawan ko ang dumudugo niyang labi. Hindi siya nagalit at ngumisi lamang saakin na parang gustong-gusto niya ang nakikita. He amusedly put his left foot on the sofa and licked my shoulder while still looking at my face. Bumebwelo siya. His blood is now all over my shoulder.

“I love you the most when you’re being feisty like this, just because you couldn’t get what you wanted.” Ngisi niya bago ako gigil na inararo. Napahiyaw ako sa sagad na sagad niyang ulos at hinawakan niya pa ang magkabilang braso ko upang doon kumuha ng lakas para umulos saakin. I couldn’t help but get drowned by pleasure again.

“Oh! Asshole!” I was calling him names and moaning at the same time all night.

True to his words, he didn’t stop until I couldn’t walk anymore.

SR

A/N: Wow, I think my passion for writing smut is coming back lol

So how was it y’all? This is 3.4k words just full of smut lol