♥KATHBIE♥Kathryn&Albie's Planet Martian9"Lagi parin kaming pinagtatagpo ng tadhana"-M
♥KATHBIE♥Kathryn&Albie's Planet Martian9"Lagi parin kaming pinagtatagpo ng tadhana"-M
Planet Martian is dedicated to the teamup of Kathryn Bernardo and Albie Casino.
Origin of Kathbie
Kathryn + Albie = KATHBIE
Origin of Planet Martian
Planet and Martian
It all started when Christian is teasing Mara that she’s making pacute with him, while the asaran continues Mara told Christian that she will moved to a different Planet just to get rid of his presence..
In a Hospital scene when Mara was confined. Christian gave her stuffed toy named Martian, Mara asked him “Bakit naman Martian name niya? Hindi naman siya mukhang Alien?” Christian answered,, Mara plus Christian = Martian..
To think it was all because of a remake of a teleserye shown 19 years ago. What is it about the Kathbie Loveteam that keeps us hooked ?
It all started when they met at that mall one random day. As they bickered and traded barbs, we couldn't help but notice the sparks flying between them.
kahit nag-aaway, their chemistry was just radiating from our Tv screens from that initial meeting, we were all hooked and were taken on an exhilarating ride as we witnessed how they started off as adversaries, became friends and are now slowly becoming sweethearts.
What is the more fascinating love story?
The love story between a bright, beautiful squatter girl-turned princess and a cute, cocky basketball player or the love story between a gifted child actress and a newbie Fil-Am actor? Are we drawn more to the love story of Mara and Christian, classmates at a Catholic School name AAA or are we more intrigued by the brewing attraction between teen actors Kathryn and Albie? through their convincing portrayal of the romance between a prickly high school nerd from the wrong side of the tracks and the high school alpha male basketball jock, the young actors have revealed to the world their sizzling chemistry.
Now we are continuing on that ride and are looking forward to the day that Mara and Christian become a couple and to Albie and Kathryn becoming one of the most beloved and successful loveteams in Philippine showbiz history!
As we fans anticipate the day when Mara and Christian finally become sweethearts, we are even more thrilled to await the day when Kathryn and Albie become real life lovers!
Born on March 26, 1996.
A Filipina actress. She Studies in OB Montessori Greenhills.
Kathryn is currently a member of ABS-CBN's Star Magic.
She appeared on GMA Network, playing the role of Jenny in the pilot episode in the Philippine remake of Endless Love. She played the role of young Victoria in the 2010 television drama Magkaribal. She is currently playing her biggest role of Mara David/Del Valle in the 2010 remake of Mara Clara and regular teenmate in Shout out.
TV Appearances
Gulong ng Palad as Young Mimi
Komiks Presents: Agua Bendita as Agua / Bendita
Super Inggo as Maya
Goin' Bulilit as Herself
Krystala as Bulinggit
Tatlong Baraha
Gagamboy
Vietnam Rose as Young Isabel
Mangarap ka
Your Song (TV Series) as Belle with:# Your Song (TV Series) as Belle with:
Makisig Morales
Empress Schuck
Sam Concepcion
Ms. Nova Villa
Maalaala Mo Kaya different episodes
It might be you as Young Cielo
Maalaala Mo Kaya different episodes
It might be you as Young Cielo
Pangarap na Bituin as Young Chorva
Prinsesa ng Banyera as Young Mayumi
Super Inggo 1.5: Ang Bagong Bangis as Maya
Super Inggo at ang Super Tropa -Voice of Maya
Magkaribal as Young Anna / Victoria
Endless Love as Young Jenny her only soap opera in GMA Network
Mara Clara as Mara
Shout out as herself
Alan Benedict 'Albie' Lee Casino
Born on May 14, 1993
He Studies in LaSalle GH
Albie was recently named as one of the Top 20 Candy Cuties for 2010 (at #7)
A Filipino actor. He was casted to ABS-CBN's Your Song Presents: Gimik 2010 in May 2009. The show went on from April – July 2010 where he was “Albie Marquez”, nephew of Diane (Judy Ann Santos). In August 2010, he was asked to portray the role of “Christian” in Mara Clara remake. The show debuted on October 29, 2010 where he is the love interest of Mara, portrayed by Kathryn Bernardo
TV Appearances
Albie Marquez on Gimik 2010
Christian Torralba on Mara Clara
Star Cinema Movie Starring Kathryn Bernardo, Julia Montes, Albie Casino & AJ Perez
Star Cinema, ABS-CBN's movie outfit, is cooking up a new yet-to-be-entitled youth-oriented movie which stars two of today's hottest young stars, Julia Montes and Kathryn Bernardo, both from the hit teleserye "Mara Clara" currently showing on television via ABS-CBN! In a recent interview, Julia Montes revealed that she is happy to be working with another Star Magic (formerly known as ABS-CBN's Talent Center) artist, AJ Perez, because it is their first time to be working together in a project.
It has been revealed in their recent movie story conference that Julia Montes, Kathryn Bernardo, and Albie Casino are all included in the movie project, excluding another "Mara Clara" star cast John Manalo. It is said that the exclusion of John Manalo in the movie project of Star Cinema for "Mara Clara" casts is the management’s decision to pair up Julia Montes with other young actors at this point in her career. AJ Perez was chosen to replace John Manalo in the said upcoming movie.
Meanwhile, Kathryn Bernardo will be teaming up again with her on-screen loveteam in "Mara Clara", Albie Casino. "Mara Clara (2010)" is currently the number 1 television program, nationwide. This is to be directed by blockbuster director Cathy Garcia-Molina.
2. Kathryn Bernardo and Albie Casiño
Bilang Mara at Christian, muling binuhay nina Kathryn Bernardo at Albie Casiño ang karakter ng dating magkasintahang sina Judy Ann Santos at Wowie de Guzman sa longest-running soap opera na Mara Clara.
At kahit kauumpisa pa lamang nito ay tila tanggap na sila ng manonood bilang isa sa mga bagong love team ng ABS-CBN. Ito ay mapapansin sa ratings na natatamo ng TV remake ng sikat na teleserye noong dekada '90.
Ang tambalang Kathryn at Albie ay kilala ngayon sa Internet bilang Kathbie. Tulad ng iba pang mga bagong tambalan, may nabuo na ring fan pages ang mga tagahanga nila sa iba't ibang networking sites.
Albie Casiño talks about his role as Kathryn Bernardo’s love interest in ‘Mara Clara’
Wed Oct 27 2010 07:08 AM
by: Napoleon Quintos
Albie Casiño gets his big break with his role as the love interest of Kathryn Bernardo in the teleserye remake of Mara Clara. Kathryn will play the good character Mara originally played by Judy Ann Santos, while Albie will take on the role of Christian who was first played by Wowie De Guzman. Albie, who was last seen in Your Song presents Gimik 2010, told Push.com.ph that he considers his role in Mara Clara as the blessing that he’s been praying for.
The 17-year-old newbie actor shared that audiences should wait for how the characters of Mara and Christian will fall in love as the story progresses. “May mga eksena kaming inaasar ko siya. Ang ugali ko kasi rito is mapang-asar. ‘Yun pa lang ‘yung ilan sa mga kilig scenes namin ni Kathryn. Dun mag-start ‘yung relationship nina Christian and Mara. Abangan niyo pa po ‘yung iba.”
Judy Ann and Wowie became a successful love team because of Mara Clara, and they starred in a string of box office films following the teleserye. Albie confessed that he welcomes the possibility that he and Kathryn will also be paired as a love team because of Mara Clara. “Wala pong kaso sa akin. Mas okay nga po ‘yun. Kung paano kami suportahan ng tao okay lang sa akin. Kung after man ng Mara Clara maging love team kami ni Kathryn, o solo ako, or kahit kaming apat uli, okay lang sa akin. Basta I’m hoping maging successful ‘yung show and kami rin.”
Albie also talked about the love teams he admired in showbiz. “Kung sa physical appearance namin ni Kathryn, tingin more similar kami kina Enchong (Dee) and Erich (Gonzales). Pero I believe na lahat ng starting love teams ang goal nila is sana maabot ‘yung success na naabot nina Kim (Chiu) and Gerald (Anderson). Kung papalarin sana maging ganun din kami ni Kathryn.”
At his young age, Albie revealed that he has already had four girlfriends. When asked if there’s a chance for him to court Kathryn, he just said that there’s just so much to admire about his co-star. “Napakagaling talaga niyang artista. Alam na siguro ng lahat ‘yun. Kaya nga siya napili for this project kasi magaling siya. Napakabait din niya. Kaya nga bagay talaga sa kanya ‘yung role na Mara. May mga eksena kami na nagagalit siya sa akin. Hindi siya ganun sa tunay na buhay.”
Through his role in Mara Clara, Albie is hoping that people will take notice of his acting talent, and that soon he can be like his idol Piolo Pascual. “Baka naman po sabihin niyo makapal ang mukha ko, pero sa totoo lang, marami po akong relatives na nagsasabing kamukha ko si Piolo. Kaya nga ako mas na-curious kay Piolo so pinanood ko siya. Magaling talaga siyang umarte.”
Albie Casino and Kathryn Bernardo Love Team Develops in ‘Mara Clara’
December 15, 2010
Congratulations to KathBie for winning the Tween Loveteams Battle. The pair from Mara Clara garnered a whopping 27, 619 votes. Coming in second are Joshua & Barbie with 13,900 votes. 3rd place went to John and Julia with 5,469. Jhake and Bea took the 4th spot earning 1, 335 votes while Kristoffer and Joyce got 5th place with 1, 185 votes.
Thanks to everyone who voted for their favorites. Congrats to all the Tweens coz this poll showed how supportive their fans are. We wish all the Tweens more success in their careers.
Albie Casino
Kathryn Bernardo
Andi Gil
Aria Clemente
Migs (I don’t know his last name)
John Manalo
Mrs. Casino
Mrs. Bernardo
SUMMARY:
Kathryn has been in love with her best friend Albie Casino since the 6th grade. Things are well until on their freshman year Albie decides to go out with a girl Kath dissaproves of. After awhile Kath throws her frustration into a letter confessing that she loves Albie. Somehow out of pure insanity she slips the letter into his locker and he reads it. Albie goes on the quest to find the "letter girl" but he never finds her until a second note appears that is sarcastic. Kath witnesses Albie’s reaction. Albie full out insults the "letter girl" not knowing that it is Kath. Kath is hurt by his reaction so she confesses. After the incident the two avoided each other until senior year.
Chapter 1: How We Met
As I lay down in bed tears start to soak my pillow. My crying is uncontrollable.. I can't seem to stop these tears from coming down. The pain from three years ago is now coming to the surface again and just right now I realized the scar in my heart was never a scar at all it was a wound that never stopped bleeding. How did it come to this??? Wait.. I remember....
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It was a normal day in the fourth grade and all of our cliques were in place. I myself was practically a loner I just had few friends maybe five or four. So I just sat in silence in front of the classroom until...
"KATH! KATH! I'd like to introduce you to the new guy!", my close friend Aria screams as she runs up to me with a scared looking guy who was holding her hand.
'Oh no..'
"Hey Kath this is my cousin Albie and Albie this is Kathryn.", Aria says while flashing me and her cousin a huge grin.
Aria glances at me and than back at Albie and puts a small smile on her face.
"You guys look like you can get along.", exclaims Aria as she puts her arms around both are necks and bangs our heads together.
Aria just walks away noncholantly while me and Albie are left rubbing our heads together.
Albie just looks at me timidly and extends his hands, "Hi, I'm Albie you must be Aria’s friend Kathryn."
I accepted his hand and gave a firm shake.
'maybe this guy isn't so bad.. although I don't usually hang out with guys'
"My name is Kathryn but you can call me Kath", I said.
Albie looked at me shyly and said, "You know even though I don't hang out with girls, I think we'll be good friends."
I returned his smile by smiling myself.
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Its soooo funny..just in that one moment my life changed and I didn't even know it.Who knew Albie would be the keeper of my heart..and the guy who would end up breaking it.
Noting much happened after that day except that our friendship bloomed without any hard bumps on the road. From fourth grade to eight grade it was always "Kath and Albie" and "Albie and Kath" until...
Chapter 2: The Day I Realized I Loved Him
I used to think falling at love at young ages was crazy but I was very, VERY WRONG. What's worse is that I figured it out in the sixth grade..quite embarassing if you ask me. And so this is how it went...
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Me and Aria went to our very first dance together with Albie. The night was perfect for a little bit of "middle school" romance. The gym was nice and cleared out and the Dance Comittee even put up some lights to accent the mood.
Students began to arrrive and soon the party was getting started.
Everyone seemed so comfortable on the dance floor in fact so did I. I turned to look for Albie except he was hanging out with some other girls and Aria was busy chatting with Migs, one of Albie’s friends.
You would think my two best friends in the world wouldn't ditch me but they did and I was left out alone. I decided to dance to the fast songs even though I was by myself but when it came down to the slow songs I would stand aside.
Now..you would think Albie would ask me to dance but he didn't, instead he had a parade of girls on a waiting list. HE HAD A FREAKIN WAITING LIST! While I couldn't even manage to get one guy. What's worse was that he danced with all the annoying girls who think their "all that". Ugh! I'm not JEALOUS!
But after awhile I couldn't stand it anymore so I sat through every slow song.
An hour passed.
And than another one passed.
Until finally the DJ announced that the night was over and he asked us to look for our special person.
I looked around for anyone that would approach me but no one came.
I watched Aria from afar and scowled in envy. She was in the arms of Migs and I thought Albie was probably on the dance floor with some hoochie.
I couldn't help myself..I already started to cry until a blurred vision of a hand stretched out came into my eyes.
"kath..stupid girl..come dance with me?"
I wiped my eyes and came face to face with Kath. That jerk..he was just asking me now.
Albie just waved his hand in front of my face while I glared at him. After awhile he just grabbed my arm and dragged me to the dancefloor.
"Why'd you ask me. They said someone special, shouldn't you go ask Miss Dess over there?", I said saracstically.
Albie just scowled at me and said, "Will you shut up already? Isn't it quite obvious that your my special person?"
I just glared at him with pure shock and he began to turn red.
"I didn't mean it like that..I mean that your my best friend.", Albie said.
Than the pang came..like I was hurt. And right than and there I realized..I'm in love with Albie Casino….
Chapter: 3: When Everything Went Wrong
You would think I would've gotten the guts to tell Albie. Well truth be hold I was afraid..no wait strike that I was terrified. So again two long years past and finally the year came..the year that would change everything...my freshman year.
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I had not seen Albie for the past two weeks. Okay I did see him. But only occasionally during school but he ignored me in the halls. That's right that jerk ignored me!
I wanted to know what was up. He was my best friend after all and we didn't usually hide anything from each other. Minus the fact that I've been in love with him since the sixth grade I've been completley honest with him.
Then like God had answered me that jerk finally told me to go over to his house.
Okay so I went over there expecting to hang out but instead
I walk into Albie’s bedroom and it was in a disaray. Clothes were everywhere from his bed to his floor and even on top of his lampshade.
Albie just looked at me shyly and said, "What should I wear on my date with my girlfriend?"
I just stared at him dumbdounded. I was angry..no what I was beyond angry. I could even feel the rush of adrenaline. He's had a girlfriend for how long? And he didn't tell me..that jerk!
I just glared at him with evil eyes while that stupid jerk had the nerve to ask if I was angry.
I couldn't help it anymore I just blew up on him.
"I thought we were best friends!!! You stupid jerk..you ignore me for two weeks...because you have a girlfriend??? That's no excuse and then you invite me over to help dress you??? Are you a psycho??? I've never kept secrets from you and I never..", I said but again that stupid idiot spoke up.
"Kath..calm down I'm sorry..I just didn't know how to tell you.", Albie said while he pressed his hands on my shoulders.
I was about to blow up again but Albie just looked at me with his adorable eyes and I knew my anger was gone. I hated myself..this was one of my worse traits. No matter what I could never stay mad at people long..expecially Albie.
Albie looks up and sees my softened expression and knows that he's forgiven.
"I'm sorry.", he said. Then he holds up a polo shirt and khaki slacks and asked me if they were okay.
"There fine.", I said.
Albie put them on and when he got out he gave me a huge bear hug.
"Your the best Kath..I don't know what I would do without you.", Albie said as he squeezed me tighter.
Then the doorbell rang and me and Albie rushed downstairs.
Albie opened the door and in came my worst enemy:Andi Gil
Out of all the girls he picks he picks the one he knows I hate the most.
I couldn't help myself I found myself getting sad and angry...and hurt..
"Hey Andi! Your parents are here to drive us?", Albie said while pearing out to look for a car.
Andi just glared at me and said with the most sugary sweet fake smile and said, "Hi Skipper."
That freaking ***** called me Skipper. I should've wrang her neck but instead I gave her a equally fake smile and said, "It's Kathryn and what's your name again? Agua?"
Andi just returned my smile and said, "Oh hi Kathryn..and it's Andi."
Albie noticed the weird exchange and interrupted us ushering Andi outside.
When they got inside Mr. Gil’s car Albie rolled down the window and said,"See ya later Kath!" while that stupid Andi added and said, "Yeah Bye SKIPPER!"
I waved until they were far, far away from Albie's driveway and then I finally gave in.
I sat on Albie's porch and did the thing that I wanted to do since Albie told me he's going on a date with his girlfriend..I cried.
Chapter:4 Why Do I Love You?
After that faithful night I spent my nights crying in frustration. Why couldn't Albie love me?? Why couldn't Albie choose me?
My attitude in the day time was totally different though. I smiled and acted like everything was okay but inside my heart was really breaking.
My nights were spent going over to Albie's house. We had fun and everything but it always would end with him telling me about HER. And like an idiot I always gave him advice.
Until one day I was walking home and I saw Andi and she was with a guy. Except that guy WASN'T Albie. It was someone else. I thought to myself, "Is Andi cheating on him?" But I didn't want to jump to conclusions so I just kept things in mind.
When I got home that night I went onto my bed and did the usual routine. I buried my head into my pillow and cried. But this night was different. I wasn't only crying for myself I was crying for Albie. My God I prayed while sobbing. I did not want to discover that Andi was cheating on Albie because SHE is what makes him happy. I don't care about myself and my own hapiness all I care about is Albie.
Sometimes I wonder WHY DO I LOVE ALBIE? But I guess the answer is just because.
Chapter 5: My Feelings
My heart kept beating so fast. I couldn't fall asleep. I was physically tired but I couldn't do anything about it. The tears just kept on coming.
I love Albie and I wish I could tell him how I feel but he's in love with Andi. That's the final line.
I should at least pour out my feelings. So I got up and got a piece of stationary paper and poured all my feelings out onto it and because of that my tears momentarily stopped falling.
Albie,
I know you hate it when girls try to throw themselves onto you. I'm not trying to do that. I'm just trying to face my true heart and be honest with you. I love you Albie. I've always been in love with you. That's all I want you to know. Don't even try to find me..I know you have your own happiness and that is all I wish for you. Choose wisely Albie. If you love that someone hold onto that person because I don't want you to live in regret. I hope someday I could truely face you and confess my feelings. But for now with this letter I just want to say..goodbye.
....anonymous
I didn't want to soak the paper with tears so I just held them back. I don't know what I'm going to do with this. I need to be honest..I can't live this life of lies.
Should I give it to him? I don't know. I'll just go wherever my heart guides me.
Chapter 6: The Truth Shall Set You Free
The next day I surprisingly woke up early.
I looked in the mirror and my eyes were swollen from crying the other night. I just sighed to myself.
My letter was where it was last night, sitting on top of my desk silently mocking me.
What should I do with it? Should I give it to him? Humiliate myself?
But then I thought, I signed it anonymously.
After all. they say the truth shall set you free. I just wanted that burden lifted from my shoulders. So I took the letter, folded it up and put in my backpack.
My routine was not very through I just washed my face, brushed my teeth and left the house without any make-up.
The only thing set on mind was that I had to do it. I had to be honest with myself.
When I reached the school the halls were empty so I rushed to his locker and just slipped it in.
I'm doing this. I'm finally doing this.
I glanced at my watch and remembered that I promised to meet Albie. So I rushed fast out of that school and headed straight for his house.
I arrived there promptly but when I rang the doorbell and Auntie answered.
"Kath dear, can I help you?", she asked.
I just looked at her for a moment and said, "Is Albie there?"
Auntie looked down in obvious disappointment.
"I'm afraid not dear. He left early to fetch Andi."
I couldn't help it the tears started to well up again and I turned my heel without responding to Auntie.
Auntie, as if she anticipated this grabbed my shoulder and turned me around.
"Kath dear, why are you so upset?", Auntie asked.
I glanced back at her kind smile and I couldn't help it, I kneeled down and actually started sobbing on her doorstep.
Auntie gently kneeled down and lifted my head up.
"Come in dear.", she said as she kindly led me inside their house.
She told me to sit on the couch and wait.
I stared at my surroundings. This is where Albie grew up..where I grew up. Again I couldn't help it..the tears just kept tumbling down.
After a minute Auntie came in the room with a tea cup in hand. She gently sat beside me and stroked my back.
"Kath it upsets me to see you like this. Your like my daughter. And I can't help but think I know why your crying..", Mrs. Casino said making her voice trail.
"Auntie. I just...", but I didn't even finish my words.
Auntie just looked at me knowingly.
"I've always thought you did..but now I know for sure."
I looked at her with frightened eyes and asked the anticipated question, "What do you know?"
"That you've always been in love with Albie.", she said non cholantly.
I just looked at her and started to sob.
"Kath, will you hush! Don't you cry.", Auntie said firmly.
"Bo my...", I said as she hugged me tightly.
After I gained self control my sobs subsided and I told her everything...even about the letter.
"You promise...you won't tell Albie?", I asked her.
"Promise.", Auntie responded.
I was about to leave but Auntie stopped me.
"Don't you give up Kath..I know in my heart that your the right one for Albie..not that Agua.", Auntie said causing my first smile that day to creep up into my cheeks.
"Thanks.", I said as I walked out her door.
I'm ready to face you Albie. I'm ready to be your best friend again.
The truth partially only set me free..I have yet to tell you. I guess I just have to pray.
Chapter: 7 On The Quest
I arrived late for homeroom that day. The teacher yelled at me as I sat down but Albie just smiled at me with amusement.
He glanced at me and slowly passed me a note.
KATH!,
I have a secret admirer. You got to check out this letter. I'll meet you at break to show you.
My heart speed up fast as I read the note.
I glanced back at Albie and nodded.
Throughout my first three periods I was out of it. I couldn't concentrate during class. I even got yelled at least three times.
Finally the bell for break rang and I hurried to our secret meeting place.
Albie turned around and rushed towards me in excitement.
"Kath..check it out!", he said as he handed me the letter.
I just re-read my letter and smiled.
"This girl must love you a lot.", I said.
Albie just smiled and said, "Hmm..this letter girl is so mysterious...I wish she should just come out and say it."
"I'm happy for you Albie..but what about Andi?", I asked.
At that Albie's smiled faded.
"She doesn't need to know.", he said blankly.
"Oh come on cheer up Albie.", I said.
Albie held my shoulders tight.
"Please don't call me crazy...but I already feel inspired by this girl." he said shyly.
My surge of feelings were welling in me.. so I did something on impulse. I locked him in a huge embrace as if I never wanted to let him go.
"Kath what's with the sudden turn of affection?", he said.
At that I pulled out of the hug.
"Nothing.. I'm just happy for you."
At that I walked away with smile on my face ignoring Albie's please for me to stay.
Chapter 8: Andi's Discovery
Note From Author: This chap. is Andi's POV
Why has Albie been ignoring me since break? I'm his girlfriend! I think it's because of that stupid Skipper! She is so annoying! Albie claims that they're just friends...I don't believe it for one second. She's up to something. I just know it.
After school I went straight to Albie's house. I knocked on the door and Mrs. Casino answered.
"Is Albie here?", I asked politely.
"You just missed him dear...he just went over to Kath's house.", Mrs. Casino responded.
"Can I leave something in his room?", I asked politely.
"Sure dear.", Mrs Casino said with a nod.
I rushed up to Albie's room and layed on his bed.
I don't know what's wrong with you Albie. Especially today of all days. Ugh..and your at Skipper's house.
I made myself comfortable as I put my hand under his pillow to support my head.
I felt something...it was a piece of paper. I took it out and unfolded it out of curiosity.
My eyes widened as I read the letter.
No wonder Albie has been ignoring me. It's because of this stupid letter girl. She must think she's so clever. I'll show her.
I thought for a moment and a mischievous idea entered my mind.
That's it...your going to get it letter girl.
The next day I woke up early to get to school. I felt a rush of adrenaline but I did it. I single handidly put a copy of the letter girl's letter into each student's locker.
I glanced at my watch..its only a matter of time.
At that I whisked off to finish off my task. I went to Albie's locker.
I carefully took out the letter and re-read it.
Albie...
By the time you read this the whole school will know about my letter. Man that whole thing was one huge joke. You don't think I really meant any of the stuff I said in it...did you?? If not I apologize for playing with your feelings. It was a spur of the moment thing.
...anonymous.
Perfect...just perfect.
I re-folded the letter and put it in the locker and rushed off.
Letter girl...your going down.
Chapter 9: Changing Everything
I arrived at school with Albie and everything was as peachy keen as can be. Who knew that this would be the day that would change everything.
My classes went by quickly but for some reason I didn't see Albie at all. Worry was all I could do during my classes. In fact I didn't talk to anyone that day because I was so preoccupied.
Finally I caught a glimpse of Albie but he was talking to Andi in what seemed like a serious conversation so I hid behind a pillar and listened in.
"Albie...don't worry about it. I forgive you.", Andi said sweetly.
"Man I was so stupid.", Albie said said while kicking the ground in frustration.
Andi then tucked a strand of albie's hair behind his ear and said, "Who new someone would play with your feelings like that?"
Albie looked up with eyes with pure hatred and said, "Whoever this letter girl is...I don't care if it's someone I really care about. All I know is that at this moment I hate her."
Tears started to form in my eyes as I ran away as fast as I could. I didn't care if I had three more classes left all I had on my mind was the fact that Albie hated me.
Later that night I did what I thought was right...I waited for Albie on his doorstep because I knew he went out with Andi.
After an hour of waiting Albie showed up on the doorstep.
I looked at him with sad eyes and I knew he sensed that something was wrong. I wanted to speak but I couldn't so I just sat there glaring at Albie.
Finally Albie sat down by me and stroked my back.
At that I sobbed into his shoulders and cried my eyes out.
I could tell Albie was confused. I could tell he wanted to know why. But all I could do was sob until Albie pulled me out of his embrace.
"What's wrong Kath??? Can you please tell me?", Albie asked pleading eyes.
This was it..the moment of truth.
"I...I...I...wrote it.", I said slurring my words.
Albie just looked at me with disbelief.
"I'm sorry...that you hate me..I overheard everything...what you said to Andi..."
Albie than took two letters out of his pocket and said, "You wrote these?"
"These? I only wrote one.", I said.
Albie than looked at me with eyes filled with a mixture of intense emotions as he opened the door and said the words that broke my heart into a thousand pieces.
"I don't think we can be friends anymore. Goodbye Kathryn."
At that he slammed the door in my face. The door shut me out of his world, out of his dreams and hopes, out of his life, and out of his heart.
I stood there dumbfounded for awhile with my eyes glued to the door until reality finally struck me.
Not only did Albie not love me like I love him..but now he didn't even want to be friends with me. I blew it. I really did.
I ran home that night and rushed up to my bedroom despite of the pleas from my mother to stay.
I locked my bedroom door tight and I walked around my room observing my possesions and something struck me hard. My room is all filled with things from Albie. I need to get rid of everything.
At that I took an empty box and started to fill it with things.
I spent an hour that night just doing that and by the time I was finished my room seemed so empty. Such a large part of me was now gone.
I looked at the box and observed my three favorite posessions from Albie.
The first one was a pink teddy bear.
*flashback*
The setting is at a carnival and me and Albie were in 7th grade.
"Albie...win me something!", I said tugging on Albie’s arm.
Albie glanced back at me with his cute eyes and said, "I already spent a lot on you Kath and all I got you was a starfish keychain and a pineapple keychain!"
"Sooo...I thought you were my best friend!", I said while pretending to sob into his shoulders.
"FINE!", Albie said as he approached a basketball booth.
"YES!", I said with my fist in the air.
"3 balls sir? 50 pesos", the carnie said.
Albie looked back at me and rolled his eyes as he forked over five bucks
Shot 1: miss
Shot 2: miss
Then the carnie grinned and said, "Your man isn't very good at this is he?"
I looked at him angrily and said, "WILL YOU SHUT UP! HE'S BEEN TRYING ALL DAY!"
The carnie looked at me and waved a white flag.
Albie was about to shoot his last shot but the carnie stopped him.
"Your woman is scary..here is a nice teddy bear.", the carnie said while handing me a cute pink teddy bear.
We left the booth and Albie looked like he was angry.
"I could've gotten it for you!",Albie said stubbornly.
"Don't be a wuss!", I said as I climbed on his back.
*end flashback*
I smiled at the memory and took out another item which was a best friend necklace. Yes one of the ones that has another half to it.
*flashback*
This was in the 5th grade.
"Kath I got a gift for you!", Albie said while handing me a little box.
I opened it and saw the cutest half star necklace that said friend.
"Albie it's cute.", I said while giving him a hug.
But then I looked at in again and grabbed Albie's collar and pulled out the chain with the other half that said Best.
"Hey Kath that's my half!", Albie said while trying to grab it.
"Too bad..",I said as I but on the necklace and handed him the half that said friend.
"I'm the best!", I said leaving Albie pouting.
*end flashback*
I laughed at the memory as I took out my most precious posession my star charm bracelet.
*end flashback*
This was in 8th grade.
Me and Albie had ditched our class and headed toward the second story building.
We reached the top and sat down gazing at the sky.
We both took out our best friend necklaces and put them together so they made a full star.
"Albie lets find a star and wish on it.", I said while closing my eyes.
We both wished and put our necklaces back on.
"Stars have a special meaning to us, don't they Albie?", I said while gazing up at the sky.
"Hmmm I wonder how we started up with out obsession?", he said with his eyes fixated on me.
"It's because you thought hearts were to girly for our best friend necklaces.", I said laughing.
At that Albie pulled out a box.
"Happy graduation Kath.", as he handed the box to me.
I looked at him with guilt and said, "But I don't have a gift for you.."
"It's okay Kath ..go ahead and open.", he said while gesturing to the box.
"okay.", I said as I opened the box that revealed a star charm bracelet.
"Do you like it?", he asked.
"Of course I do!", I said.
*end flashback*
My eyes were brimmed with tears as I took the locket and placed it on top of all the items that were from Albie.
I couldn't believe it...I was ready to say goodbye.
Chapter 10: Let's Give It A Try
I woke up early the next morning and put on the drabbest outfit I could find, which was my oldest pair of jeans and a plain white t-shirt.
Sigh..I felt like I was walking into hell. But I had to do what I had to do. So I picked up the box and headed out the door with my head up high and walked to Albie's house.
When I got there Auntie opened the door.
"Kath dear, what's the matter? Are you upset again?", Mrs. Casino asked with sincere concern.
I shook my head and said, "Don't worry Auntie everything is fine. Is Albie home?"
Auntie looked at me as if she didn't believe me but she gestured for me to go up to his room.
I didn't say anything back to her..I just nodded and rushed up the stairs.
I finally reached his door but I found myself hesitating to open it.
"Come on Kath you can do it!", I whispered to myself as my trembling hand turned the doorknob.
When I walked in, Albie was on his bed facing his window.
"No mom, I'm fine don't bother me.", Albie said.
"Albie ..it's me.", I said softly.
At the sound of my voice he turned around.
"What's with the box?", he asked.
I nodded and put it on his bed.
"We're not friends anymore..remember? So here's all the stuff you gave me..every last bit of it.", I said trying to avoid his gaze.
"Kath ...", he said in sad voice.
"Albie..no need to pity me...you said yourself we can't be friends. Despite your rejection...I want you to know that I will still be there for you..."
Once that was said I turned around and approached the door.
"Kath...", he said as I heard his footsteps approaching me.
I blinked my eyes twice so I could mask my tears and then I turned around.
"We can be friends Kath..we can..we really can.", he said while holding my hands.
"Albie I'm not dumb enough to fall for that.", I said trying to hold back my tears.
At that I felt his arms encircle me. My eyes winced as one solitary tear slid down my cheek.
"Okay...we can try. We hang out with the same friends.. it'll be hard.", I said as I pulled out of his embrace.
I turned my heel to leave but he stopped me.
"What about your box?", Albie said.
I held back my tears once again as I said, " Albie, if this is going to work..I have to let go what's inside that box."
I touched the doorknob but he stopped me with his hand.
"What's in the box?", he asked.
"All the things that made me fall for you.", I said.
At that I turned the doorknob and left.
Chapter 11: If Only
This chap. will be told in Albie's POV…….
I watched the door softly close.
What's this???
I touched my face to find that it was moist with tears.
Why am I crying??? Why am I letting her affect me so?
I shook my head in frustration as more tears started to saturate my face.
Until finally it hit me...my best friend is gone.
I punched the wall and threw my things all over the room. I couldn't help it I just needed to let the frustration out.
By the time I was done my room was in a extreme disaray and the only thing left untouched was the box that she left.
I closed my eyes as I recall what she said.
*flashback*
"What's in the box?", I asked.
"All the things that made me fall for you.", I said.
Then she turned the doorknob and left.
*end flashback*
I slowly opened the box and looked at all the contents.
Shirts that she accumulated.
Gifts from all our years together.
Pictures of us.
Notes that we passed from our Middle School Years.
All my life it has always been me and her.
I began putting her possessions back in the box until I noticed a notebook that I didn't recall having any link to.
I took it out and opened the first pages and I found my self smiling as I saw what she wrote.
-Albie + Kath
-Kath+Albie
-Albie LOVES Kath
-Kath LOVES Albie
-Mrs. Albie Casino
-Mr. and Mrs. Albie Casino
-Mrs. Kathryn Chandria Casino
Finally I reached the back and there were several entries.
Dear Journal,
Do you think Albie will like me??? Ever??? I could only hope you know. But how can he ever like me? I'm his gal pal... his best friend. What do I have to offer??? Sigh...I guess I'll just have to wait.
Dear Journal,
Today I found out Albie was going out with my worst nightmare.. Andi. How could he??? i thought he was my best friend. It's not that I don't want him to be happy..I do...but why does it have to be Andi???
Dear Journal,
Today Albie said we can't be friends. After everything...after everything! *tear stain* I didn't even know about that second letter...it wasn't me... How can he even think that??? And now Aria tells me..there are copies all over the school??? How could of that of happened. I wouldn't do that!! *tear stain* How could of that of ever entered his mind?? Who could of done this to me??? I bet it must've been Andi....ugh..what am I thinking. Albie likes Andi..I should be supportive of him. Ugh what am I saying...
I closed the journal because I couldn't take it anymore.
Ohmigawd what have I done??? Why couldn't I have seen it?? She loved me all this time??? And i didn't know?? Why couldn't of she told me before?..because maybe..maybe.....never mind...
If only you knew Kath...
If only you knew...
Chapter 12: As Time Goes By
Like that the years flew bye. One year passed, a second year passed, and a third year passed.
And me and Albie’s relationship began to go back to how it was in the yester years.
We had our share of a few bumps along the road, awkward silences and such but we made it.
Now we were best friends again and I didn't think anything could break us apart ever.
Or so I thought...but then began senior year.
You may have thought it was dramatic before...
You may think that my story can't get any worse...
Let me tell you this ...your wrong...
Chapter 13: Sorrow Unfolds
Albie's House
"Albie???", I said as I peeked into his room.
"Come in Kath I'm in the bathroom."
I went inside his room and sat down on his bed.
After a few minutes later Albie came out clad in jeans and a red t-shirt.
"What's the big emergency?", I asked.
Albie just looked down on the floor obviously showing that he is embarrassed.
"Let me guess...Andi broke up with you again or Andi thinks your spending too much time away from her?",I said while shaking my head in dissaproval.
Yes...Albie and Andi have been going out on and off since freshman year. I held my end of my promise to myself ..I always helped Albie out with her. I never did find out if Andi was cheating on him...
"Yes."
"So what do you want me to do about it Einstein?", I said sarcastically.
"Ummm...you could tell me what I could do to make it up to her?", Albie said with a lopsided grin.
I groaned and buried my head into his pillow.
I heard Albie approaching me.
"Come on Kath.", he said while trying to lift up the pillow.
I sighed in defeat and took sat up beside him.
"Fine...you could take her out tomorrow..isn't it your third month anniversery?"
Albie looked at his calendar.
"We broke up then...soooo.", then his face turned pale.
"I'm right aren't I??? No wonder she's mad at you!"
"Your the best Kath!!!", Albie said while hugging me with
enthusiasm.
"Come on you freak..we're going out.", I said while heading
towards the door.
"Eh for what???
I went back to the bed and through a pillow at him.
"To get Agua...I mean Andi a gift!!!"
"Oh.", Albie said as he approached me.
He smiled that stupid grin of his spun me around.
"Albie your making me sick!"
Albie than let me down but we both fumbled onto the floor.
And HE was on top of me.
Then all of a sudden the door opened.
We both looked into the confused eyes of Andi and she ran.
Chapter 14: Nasty Break and a Scheme
This is partially told in Kath’s POV and partially told in Aria’s POV
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Once Albie saw that it was Andi that ran away he quickly got off me and chased her.
Sigh...some things never change.
I know it was nosy but I followed Albie and Andi and they were talking on the stairs.
I couldn't help it..I hid in the hallway and listened to their conversation.
"See I knew it!!! You and Kath are going out behind my back!", Andi said snappily.
"Andi..you have to listen to me!!!", Albie said trying to calm her down.
"You know what??? I don't want to listen!!!", and with that Andi left.
I was secretly glad but I brushed the thought out of my mind: I needed to be a good friend to Albie.
I heard voices again except it wasn't Andi and Albie it was Migs and Aria!
I stepped out of the hallway and the three were on the stairs obviously comforting Albie.
"Albie I don't get why you deal with her! She always assumes the worst in you!", Aria says while patting Albie on the back.
I approached them and sat behind Albie and hugged him from behind.
"Sorry Albie..I could talk to her if you want even though it's obvious that she doesn't deserve you."
Albie shrugged and said, "It's okay Kath."
"Yeah man she's right!", Migs said to back me up.
Albie just shrugged and got up.
"Hello Albie!", me, Migs, and Aria said simultaneously.
"I need to be alone."
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Migs and me were walking down the sidewalk.
"I'm tired of this happening!", I said with my arms folded.
Migs just sighed and put his arm around my shoulder.
"It's okay Aria..", Migs said to try to comfort me.
"Migs no it's not!!! My best friend and your best friend obviously like each other and they can't be together because of that Agua girl."
"Aria..look at me.", Migs said as he turned me around to face him.
"If they're meant to be it'll happen."
"BUT IT'S BEEN 6 LONG YEARS MIGS!", I snapped.
Migs just looked down in defeat.
"Come on Migs you have to help me think of something...we got to get of Andi..that's it..",
"Aria you know meddling is wrong..", Migs said sheepily.
"SHUT UP! Hmmm how can we get her to back off. I know!", I said as a scheme went throguh my mind.
"I don't like that look on your face Aria..it only means trouble."
"Shut up Einstein we have lots of work to do.", I said with a triumphant grin.
Chapter 15: Announcements
I walked to school with Albie the next morning. He seemed to have cheered up some as he laughed at my pathetic excuse for jokes.
When we reached the school steps we walked down the hallway as usual. Except something was different like everybody knew something that we didn't.
A girl approached us with a over perky smile.
"Congratulations Kathryn and Albie!"
She walked away quick, so we continued on, while occasionally exchanging confused glances.
Then a group of people exchanged congrats to us one by one.
"Congrats Kathryn and Albie!
"Way to go man!"
"You got a good one don't let go of him!"
"You guys are like the cutest!"
When we reached homeroom we took our usual seats by each other and awaited the morning announcements.
*feedback noise*
"Ugh sorry guys. Good Morning AAA High! This is me, Aria for morning announcements. Well there's no school events coming up. *shuffling of note cards*"
*distant from mike*
"Huh?? You want me to announce this? But it isn't school related? Are you sure?? okay."
*now back on mike*
"Since there's no school events. I'd like to announce a new couple. Aka our senior class's new golden couple. They used to be friends with each other and now look they're in love. Wanna say congrats to Albie Casino and Kathryn Bernardo for getting together. Aria out."
The whole homeroom cheered for us while me and Albie just looked down sheepily.
I stood up.
"Don't be shy Kathryn!", a girl from the corner of the room said.
"But--"
"It's fine you guys are a cute couple!", another said.
I tried to protest but then the bell rang.
Everybody left except me and Albie didn't move.
"How did people think..", I started.
"I don't know.". Albie said obviously as confused as I am.
Then Aria entered.
"Hey guys!"
We both exchanged glances and we were thinking the same thing.
Then Migs entered.
"Yo guys!"
We exchanged glares again and then we stood up.
"WHAT DID YOU TWO DO?", me and Albie said simultaneously.
"Wow look at the time. I got to go.", Aria said while sauntering over to the door.
"You know what? Me too.", Migs said as he followed Migs.
Albie looked at me and I looked at him.
He ran to the door and blocked the entrance while I stood behind Aria.
They both shrugged and defeat.
"SHE MADE ME DO IT!"
"HE MADE ME DO IT!"
Migs and Aria said simultaneously while pointing at each other.
"What do you mean Aria? I told you it was a bad idea and I told you Kath would know! She has like a fifth sense or something!"
"IDIOT! WE HAVE 5 SENSES SO ITS SIXTH SENSE!"
"Well it was your idea.", Migs said while staggering back in fear.
"STOP!"
Aria sighs in defeat.
"Well the truth is that we did it because we didn't want Albie to get back with Andi."
"L----", Migs starts to say but Aria suttily kicks him.
"We can't go on like this forever.", I said.
"Well your going to have to for now.", Aria said sternly.
"But---.", Albie starts to protest.
"No way everybody would call me a liar.", Aria said with a pout.
"BUT YOU DID LIE!", me, Migs, and Albie said together.
"So? Deal with it.", Aria said while she stormed off.
Migs gave us a glance.
"You could go!"
I looked up at albie.
"Now what are we going to do?".
Chapter 16: Pretending
Albie glanced at me and I glanced back at him.
"You never really wanted me with Andi did you?", Albie asked.
"I never thought she was good enough for you and before when you first got to together I was a little hurt because you knew that I didn't like her."
"Oh."
"It's fine. But now what are we going to do?", I asked praying that the answer would be to my liking.
"I guess we should just pretend and besides Andi shouldn't of broken up with you without listening. Looks like a time for revenge doesn't it?"
Albie just gave me a weird look.
"What?? I can't be evil also?"
Albie just smiles.
"What?", I said as Albie held my hand.
"We have to look the part hence we hold hands."
"Oh."
"Come on Kath we have to get to class.", Albie said as We walked out the door hand in hand.
We were on our way to physics when Andi stops us.
"Is it true?"
"What?", I asked.
"I wasn't talking to you *****.", Andi said snappily.
Albie looked at me and he knew what to do.
"Don't call MY girlfriend a *****!", Albie yelled.
"Albie you've got to be kidding me. Your on the rebound I get it...you can come back now. Don't have to settle for trash.", Andi said harshly.
"Don't ever call MY girlfriend trash and I'm not on the rebound. I've long since been over you. I didn't mean it to end this way, it's just that we can't be.",
Bravo is all I could think of as Andi stormed off.
"Whoa Albie, Oscar worthy performance!"
"Thanks, girlfriend!", Albie said jokingly.
"Why thank you boyfriend!", I said playing along.
Chapter 17: Confrontation With Agua---I mean Andi
I walked home after school that day except Albie didn't go with me. It didn't matter to me though. All I was thinking about was how happy I am.
I walked up onto my porch except I was greeted by Andi's smirking face.
"You think you can get away with this?"
Andi rised in anger as she walked towards me.
"Get away with what?", I asked innocently.
"You stealing Albie from me!"
"I didn't STEAL Albie from you he just happened to like me better!"
"No...he's just on a rebound from our fight!", Andi retorted.
"Save it Andi...I don't need this.", I said as I opened my door.
"This isn't the last of me Kathryn!", Andi shouted as I slammed the door in her face.
I looked at the door peeker and she was still there.
I sunk to the floor.
Why did Albie like a psycho like her???
No time to think about that Kath.
You have to stay positive...it doesn't matter if Albie doesn't like you..at least for now you can pretend up.
I got up from the floor and peeked again.
Sigh..she was gone.
My life is not longer in danger.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Albie's POV
Today is so weird.
I can't believe overnight I became my best friend's boyfriend.
Whot are you kidding Casino? Your happy about this.
I walked up and opened the door to my house and I was greeted by Aria.
"Hey cuz! Did you miss me?"
I just looked at her and rolled my eyes.
"Come on man listen to us.", Migs said as he appeared out from the kitchen.
Again I couldn't speak so I went upstairs despite the fact that I could here Aria and Migs loud whispers.
"Look what you've done!"
"What I've done??? This is your fault!"
The worst is yet to come. I thought as Migs and Aria oh so "trailed" behind me.
When I reached my room I turned around quick causing Aria to scream.
"Cuz don't turn around so sudden. You nearly gave me a heart attack."
"Ugh, what do you want?", I muttered as I entered my room.
"We need to talk to you.", Migs and Aria said simultaneously.
"About what?", I complained.
"About you and Kath...DUH!", Aria said as she plopped herself onto the bed.
"What about?"
"You like her don't you?", Migs asked.
"Huh?? What??? What made you think that??", I said nervously.
How did they know??? I never told anybody.
"Come on cuz admit it.",Aria persistantly says.
"No me and Kath--- are j-just f-friends.", I stammered out.
"Migs, hand me the evidence.", Aria said while she held out her hand and placed a notebook in it.
My eyes widened. I know that notebook. How did Aria...how did she??? She must of snooped in my room.
"ARIA!", I yelled as I snatched the notebook from her.
"So it's true cuz?"
"You read this???", I said sternly.
"Yes."
"These are my private feelings Aria..and you snooped around my room to find it!"
"Hey it's not only your feelings it's some of Kath's too.", Aria said defensively.
"So??"
"Pursue her man.", Migs said.
"How can I??? We agreed to be friends again...so no one can get hurt again and besides Kath doesn't love me anymore."
Aria eyed me and then she did the most violent thing. She smacked my head so hard that I swear I had a small blackout.
"ARIA!!! What was that for?", I said as I rubbed my head.
"For being an idiot!"
"Come on Albie, Aria means well and how do you know she doesn't love you???", Migs suggests.
"Well-----I-I"
"Exactly cuz. Oh and tomorrow's we have no school so me and Migs will meet you at Kath's house at about 10:00?? It's a double date.", Aria said fastly as she grabbed Migs and headed out the door.
Oh my gawd??? What just happened there??? I have a date with Kath.
Chapter 18: Kath and Albie-------A Couple for REAL?
It's the day. It's our date. Ohmigawd! I'm so nervous.
I waved my hands in front of my face as I began to pace around my room.
It happened so sudden.
*flashback*
Albie was on my doorstep and his back was facing me.
So I sneaked up behind him and jumped on his back.
He looked so startled when he saw me but I ignored it.
"Kath?", he asked nervously.
"Yes?", I said with a smile.
"We have a date tomorrow with Migs and Aria.," His eyes darted around like he was confused. "That's it. Ugh..bye Kath."
*endflashback*
And just like that he left. What a weirdo.
I can't help but feel happy.
The doorbell rang and I could already feel my lips curling into a smile.
Today's my first date with Albie.
I heard footsteps coming so I smoothed out my dress and I headed out.
I opened the door and I came face to face with Albie.
Man he was handsome. His hair was smoothed with a bit of pomade or something and he had on crisp khaki pants with a blue button down.
"Hey Albie? What's with the get up it's only me?", I said jokingly.
He didn't even respond. He just stared at me.
I couldn't help but think if there was something on my face.
Albie's POV
She's so beautiful. It's been a long time since she really dressed up.
Wow...we're like a real couple our outfits even match.
I stared at her once again and she had lightly curled the ends of her hair and she was wairing a cute but simple aqua blue wrap dress over jeans.
I gazed at her again and then I realized she had said something so I smacked myself on my forehead.
She just looked at me weirdly and grabbed my arm and then we were off.
We walked outside and there was the limo that took me here. Here Migs and Aria went all out.
I politely opened the door for her and she smiled at me.
Man I must be getting all poetic and corny but man did that make my heart flutter.
Ugh...I sound like a pansy.
"Albie where's Migs and Aria?", Kath asked as the driver started the car.
"I don't know they said that they were running late though."
"so where are we going?", Kath asked.
"Migs and Aria were the ones that gave the driver instructions.", I said.
The rest of the car ride was pretty much silent and all I we could here was the radio.
The music was okay but finally a song came on that caught my attention.
I've known you for so long you are a friend of mine...
But babe is this all we'll ever be???
Whoa how ironic.
Finally the sing ended and the radio announcer said the name of the song. It was Friend Of Mine by Lea Salonga.
Before I knew it we were at our destination already and it was about 3:00 because of traffic. Man a five hour drive. But it's all worth it.
We got out and it was a familiar place.
Ohmigawd they took us to that old spring we used to go to when we were younger.
"Albie! Do you remember this place?? Lot's a good memories.", Kath said with a smile.
I looked at her smiling face and I felt so content.
I really am in love with her.
"Albie! Albie!", Kath screamed in my ear.
"Eh you stupid woman!"
"Your such a party pooper! Let's go and look around.", said Kath as she ran ahead.
I looked at her and then I looked at he spring.
I had an idea.
I chased after Kath and I picked her up despite her cries.
I smiled with glee as I tossed her in the cold spring.
"ALBIE CASINO! HOW DARE YOU!", she screamed as she motioned for me to come closer.
I cautiously went over there.
"Help me up.", Kath said as she held out her hand.
I reluctantly agreed and I extended my arm and she---- PULLED ME IN!
The water hit me like a iceberg! It was freezing.
I was shivering while Kath laughed at me.
"Eh your so mean!", I said childishly.
"Your one to talk! Your the one that started it!", Kath retorted as she splashed me with water playfully.
Suddenly it was a constant water war and before we knew it it was nightfall already.
Migs and Aria never showed up.
Chapter 19: Stars Take A New Meaning
Kath and Albie shivered as they went out of the spring to dry up.
The air was mysteriously cold and crisp while the night sky was filled with a aray of stars with the moon shining brightly in the midst of them.
"Albie isn't it so beautiful tonight?", Kath said as they sat down on the rocks behind the spring.
"Your beautiful...", Albie whispered.
But Kath did not hear, she was to busy gazing at the stars.
Kath shivered as she rubbed her hands to keep warm.
"Your cold.", Albie said while touching her skin.
"No. I'm fine.", Kath said.
"It's okay Kath. I'm sure the driver has some towels in the limo. I'll go get them."
Albie left to go get them, leaving Kath staring at the great night sky.
Kath's POV
The stars are so beautiful tonight. Just like the day of eight grade graduation.
Kath was so lost in her thoughts that she didn't notice that Albie was holding a towel in front of her.
"Hello?? Kath!", Albie said while waving the towel in front of her.
"Oh...", Kath said sheepishly as she wrapped the towel around her.
"Hey Kath?"
"Hmmm...", Kath said dreamily.
"Let's go to the hilltop to watch the stars."
"Can we?", Kath said while jumping up in excitement.
"Come let's go. I snuck a peek at the tv in the limo and there's supposively going to be a meteor shower. Hurry.", Albie said as he held out his hand.
Kath gladly accepted it and their hands were now intertwined.
"Hurry up slowpoke.", Albie said as the two raced like little children.
Finally they reached the hilltop and sat down.
Kath comfortably put her head down on Albie's shoulder while he put his arm around her back.
"Do you remember what my grandma use to say when we were little?", Albie said.
"Of course. How can I forget."
"If you reach for the moon and fall short, don't fret because you'll still be amongst the stars.", they said together.
"I miss your grandma.", Kath said.
"So do I."
"Albie did you really like Andi??", Kath said changing the topic.
"Ummmm for a while. But I knew I was living a lie...I was obviously in love with someone else.", Albie said.
"Someone else----?", Kath said suriously.
"Whoa Kath did you see that?", Albie said while pointing up to the sky.
"Where?", Kath said as she looked up into the sky.
Finally she spotted the falling stars.
"Make a wish.", Albie said.
And like that they closed their eyes and made a wish.
Chapter 20: It's Cause I Can't Lose You
The next weeks were pure bliss. They expressed their love for each other freely and it seemed like nothing could go wrong.
But as usual. .another obstacle was on the way.
Albie was going to their meeting place.
The rooftop of their middle school.
That special place where he gave her the star charm bracelet.
He reached the roof top and saw Kath waiting eagerly.
Kath greeted him with a hug and she motioned for him to sit down.
"Kath there's something I need to tell you.", Albie said.
"Me too.", Kath said with a cheery smile.
Albie's POV
She looks so happy...I have to be strong.
"Can I go first?", Albie asks politely.
"Sure.", Kath said.
"I LOVE YOU.", Albie said slowly.
Kath's POV
Did I just here him say the words I long to hear? Or is it just a dream?
"Albie---"
"Before you say anything. I want to say that I know you don't like me. I get it. It's obvious to me that your in love with someone else. But I still want to be your best friend. I can't lose you...Kath. I just can't. Please pretend like I never told you.", Albie said.
Kath's POV
Ohmigawd...he thinks I don't like him. Kath do something.
"But...Albie...you.....I."
"Don't say it Kath. Don't say that we can't be friends."
"But Albie...", Kath started.
Albie just ignored her plea and sat up.
"This was a mistake telling you. I knew it. I’m sorry.", Albie said as he started to leave."
"Albie..I love you", Kath said in tone barely above a whisper.
"Kath don't pretend...I get it okay?", Albie said with his back facing her.
"But it's true Albie...."
"Kath...I know that this is the best. We can never be...these past few week have just been a lie."
Once that was said she watched him go down the stairs as she sank down and sobbed.
"Why is this happening??? Why doesn't he think I love him??? Why??",Kath said aloud in frustration.
Albie's POV
I'm almost out of breath. I don't even know where I'm running to. All I know is that I want to get far away from here.
Albie finally stopped as he reached his front doorstep.
He did the thing that he never does.
He cried.
*flashback*
"Andi..what do you want?", Albie said when he spotted Andi on his doorstep.
"I know you hate me Albie. I know I was a bother but I don't want to be like that anymore.", Andi said with tears nearly spilling out of her eyes.
"Andi..it's okay. What do you have to say?", Albie said gently.
"I hate to bring this back up again. But Kath is in love with someone else. I overheard her and Aria talking.", Andi said as she sobbed into his chest."
"What?"
"It's true..I'm so sorry Albie."
*end flashback*
Albie's POV
I'm sorry for the pain I've caused you.
I didn't want to lose you...
But I can't hold on..you need to be happy..
Chapter 21: On a Mission
Note to Readers: It's present tense now. This chapter leaves off from the first chapter when Kath was reminicing.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I can't believe it all happened all so suddenly.
How could of you have done that Albie???
I love you...why don't you believe me???
How can I even show my face??
I sobbed into my pillow letting out some more tears.
I got up to look at the mirror and my eyes were swollen.
Not again. The pain is so clear and fresh right now and the scar in my heart is again a bleeding wound.
I can face him...I can...tomorrow's another day.
I got up the next day and had a splitting headache. I put on some jeans and a plain white t-shirt.
I glanced at my make up bag.
It's no use...it's not like I have anybody to please.
I opened the door to leave but instead I came face to face with Aria.
"Kathryn Chandria Bernardo! You look horrible!!", Aria yelled in my face.
"And so...", I said stubbornly.
"Don't give me that Kath...I know what happened.", Aria said sturnly.
"I don't want to talk about it."
I trudged passed her but she got in front of me.
"Kath stop being stubborn. You love Albie and Albie loves you."
"Well If he loves me so much then why didn't he listen to me??? And what gave him the impression that I'm in love with someone else, huh??"
"Andi...", Aria said softly.
"And he believed her??? My gawd!! What's wrong with her??? First the letter and now this???", I said as I sank to the ground.
"I don't know if I can take this anymore.", I said as I started to sob.
"Kath don't cry. I don't want you to. If it makes you feel better Albie only gave you up because he wants you to be happy.", Aria said as she gently patted me on the back.
"Well if he loves me so much..then why???Just why???", I said as I pounded my fist into the cement.
"Kath. You know how thick-skulled my cousin is! He's
convinced that your in love with someone else. So why not give him what he wants to see??", Aria said.
"What do you mean??", I said out of curiosity.
"John!!!", Aria yelled.
And out from the corner came one gorgeous guy.
"Kath meet John.", Aria said triumphantly.
Chapter 22: Plan???
"Do I know you???", I said as I looked at John.
He looks familiar.
"Yup. You've met me before from awhile. I'm Aria's god brother.", John said as he stretched out his hand.
I gladly accepted it and gave Aria a strange look.
"John here is going to help you give Albie a big kick in his arse@", aria said while clapping her hands excitedly.
"Aiyoh! Aria.I don't want anymore trouble.", I said as I grumbled stubbornly.
"Kath...I'm willing to help you. Aria's told me all about it."
"You are?", I said out of curiosity.
"Don't worry..I have a girlfriend, her name is Julia. I'm here on vacation so I might was well help."
"Well...", I said nervously.
I did want to teach Albie a lesson. Don't get me wrong. But still...even though he hurt me...it doesn't mean I want to do the same.
"Kathryn Bernardo!!! If you say no...I'm going to kick your ***!"
Once that was said Migs appeared behind Aria.
"Aria..what did I tell you about scheming against your cousin? Formally speaking my best friend.", Migs said sternly.
Me and John exchanged glances.
"Let me guess. This is Aria's boyfriend.", John said.
"Yup.", Aria said. She narrowed her eyes. "You got a problem with that?"
"Nope.", John gulped in fear.
"Migs..I'm sorry. But I have to step in.", Aria said with a pout.
"Ugh...fine. I'm in.", Migs said.
WHAT??? Migs is such a push over. I can't believe it.
"That leaves you Kath. Are you in or are you out?", Aria said with fire in her eyes.
"Okay I'm in.", I said while putting my head down in defeat.
"Okay..so here's the plan.", Aria said triumphantly as they went into a huddle.
Chapter 23: LOVE...to make you Jealous
Ding-dong. The doorbell sounded at the front of Albie's doorstep.
Albie opened the door and saw the least likely person, Kath.
"Hey Albie!", Kath said noncholantly as she hugged him.
"Hey Kath..", Albie said awkwardly as he hugged be back.
"What's with the poker face?", Kath said.
"I thought that your would hate me...because.", Albie said but Kath closed his lips with her two fingers.
"No more Albie. You were right. Thanks for letting me be happy.", Kath said as if it were nothing.
Kath motioned for him to walk with her but he just stood there.
"Eh why are you still there?", Kath said as she whipped her head around.
"How can you act so calm?", Albie said softly.
"You said to pretend like nothing happened., didn't you?", Kath said.
At that Albie walked towards her and smiled.
"Thanks Kath."
"No problem Albie. When do you want to meet him?", Kath said.
Albie's POV
Your such an idiot..of course she has a boyfriend. That's why you let her go.
"Ummm...anytime.", Albie said nervously.
"Okay...we're going to meet Migs, Aria and my boyfriend at her house."
"Okay.", Albie said with his head down.
Albie's POV
Albie Casino!!! You are the biggest idiot on the face of the planet!!! I can't believe you agreed to see what's his face. I hate him...I hate him...
When Kath and Albie reached Aria's house they were already on the doorstep.
Albie's eyes widened as he saw a familiar face.
Albie's POV
John??? My friend. He's Kath's boyfriend??? Sigh..it could've been worse.
"Yo, John man.", Albie said as he exchanged a brotherly hug.
"Who knew??? Your best friend is my girlfriend. It's a small world.", John said as he wrapped his arm around Kath.
"Yup.", Albie said.
Albie's POV
I like John really I do. UGH!! I hate feeling jealous.
"Come on let's go.", Aria said.
And they were off.
Chapter 24: Over the Edge
"John, honey. You can't stick around at school!", Kath said.
"But I'll miss you.", John said.
"I'll miss you too but I got to go!", Kath said but John held her back.
On the otherside Albie is going out of his mind.
Albie's POV
I've got to count to ten. I can't let jealousy control me. I can't let it...GRRRR!!! I ought to wack him in the head or something. UGh...I don't know what to do...ugh wait---he's!!
And then John kissed Kath on the cheek and left leaving Kath blushing like a red tomato.
"Oooohhh Kath. Who knew you got it bad for my god brother?", Aria said teasingly.
"Eh...Aria.", Kath said while trying to hide her face.
"Don't you agree Albie?", Aria said making the tension rise.
Albie's POV
Note to self: kill Aria or hire a assasin.
"Of course.", Albie said noncholantly.
"And don't you think they're a cute couple?", Aria adds in.
"Aria.", Migs says warningly as he elbows her in the stomach.
"What??? I'm just asking for his opinion." Aria then shifted her attention back to Albie. "So don't you think they're cute?"
"Of course.", Albie said while clutching his fists.
Albie's POV
Aria Clemente!!!! Wait till I tell bo mu about this.
"No what Kath? Me, you, Migs and John should go on a double date.", Aria announces.
Albie's POV
WHAT??? That's how she got me and Kath tog--I mean we were never together. I shouldn't care. Even though I still lo--- Oh shut up Albie..your an idiot!@
"What???", Kath says in shock.
"I'll take that as a yes. Bye Albie, bye Migs.", Aria said while dragging Kath away.
Once their retreating figures dissappered Migs and Albie went to their lockers.
Albie angrily opened his locker while Migs watched.
Migs POV
Sorry Albie, I promised not to tell.
"If your upset you can say so.", Migs said.
"I'm not upset. Why would I be upset? Me and Kath were never together anyway.", Albie said as he got his books out.
"Are you sure your fine?", Migs said.
"Of course."
"Then why did you take out your Language Arts notebook we have World History next.", Migs said.
"So I mistaked the books.", Albie said.
"Albie's today's Monday. You don't even have Language Arts today."
"Like that's an accurate way to see if I'm upset."
"But you are, aren't you.", and just like that Migs left, leaving Albie standing in the hall dumbfounded.
Albie's POV
I'm not upset I swear. I don't lov-- Well that would be lying I do love her. But--- Ugh..this is driving me over the edge. I've got to be strong. for the sake of her happiness.
Then Albie went forward following Migs closely behind.
Chapter 25: Untitled
After school
Kath, Migs, Aria, and Albie are walking down the hallway.
"Know what? Strike that out. You guys can go out alone. Me and Migs have our own plans.", Aria said with a devious smile.
"Plans? What plans?", Migs says as Aria suttily kicks him in the shin.
"Don't tell me you forgot...it's our year anniversary...WAHHHHHHHHHHHH!", Aria said as she buried her head into his shoulder."
"Aria...I'm sorry...I really am.", he said as he comforted her.
"Eh stupid our year anniversary is next week..ugh your getting a beating.", Aria hisses.
Albie and Kath just watched the two in amusement.
"Please tell John that we had to cancel but please you guys still must got out. Call me later.", Aria said between sobs.
Migs led her away but Aria turns around.
"Albie my mom needs to talk to you so just come with.", Aria said.
"Come with? For what?", Albie said.
"Just come.", Aria sobbed out.
Albie stares back at Kath longingly but he goes with Aria.
"Bye Kath.", Albie said with a small wave.
"Bye."
When they reached Aria's house Aria as back to her perky self.
Albie's POV
Your up to something. I know it.
"Ummm what did Auntie need from me?", Albie asks.
"Umm nothing.", Aria said.
"Oh my gawd. Aria what do you want?"
"Eh I told you this was a bad idea.", Migs hissed.
"Migs shut up.", Aria said.
"But it is. First you trick Albie with that false double date arrangement to make him act or whatever and now you--."
But Albie interrupted.
"Oh my gawd Aria you cannot just do that! You can't and you know----you know how I feel about her.", Albie yelled.
"Well you know what Albie? You need a huge kick in the ***! Seriously. Did you ever give her a chance to say anything? NO YOU JUST SAY..'wo ai ni' and ramble about how she doesn't love you. BUT SHE DOES! You have no idea how much you hurt her. And I'm sorry for plotting against you and I hate that but it has to be done.", Aria said.
Albie just stared at her with disbelief.
"She....lo---ov--es me?", Albie stutters out.
"Yes you single cell lifeform!", Aria let out.
"But Andi said---"
"Andi is a *****! I thought we established that!", Aria said.
At that said Albie just sat down in silence.
Albie's POV
I like John really I do. UGH!! I hate feeling jealous.
"Come on let's go.", Aria said.
And they were off.
Chapter 24: Over the Edge
"John, honey. You can't stick around at school!", Kath said.
"But I'll miss you.", John said.
"I'll miss you too but I got to go!", Kath said but John held her back.
On the otherside Albie is going out of his mind.
Albie's POV
I've got to count to ten. I can't let jealousy control me. I can't let it...GRRRR!!! I ought to wack him in the head or something. UGh...I don't know what to do...ugh wait---he's!!
And then John kissed Kath on the cheek and left leaving Kath blushing like a red tomato.
"Oooohhh Kath. Who knew you got it bad for my god brother?", Aria said teasingly.
"Eh...Aria.", Kath said while trying to hide her face.
"Don't you agree Albie?", Aria said making the tension rise.
Albie's POV
Note to self: kill Aria or hire a assasin.
"Of course.", Albie said noncholantly.
"And don't you think they're a cute couple?", Aria adds in.
"Aria.", Migs says warningly as he elbows her in the stomach.
"What??? I'm just asking for his opinion." Aria then shifted her attention back to Albie. "So don't you think they're cute?"
"Of course.", Albie said while clutching his fists.
Albie's POV
Aria Clemente!!!! Wait till I tell bo mu about this.
"No what Kath? Me, you, Migs and John should go on a double date.", Aria announces.
Albie's POV
WHAT??? That's how she got me and Kath tog--I mean we were never together. I shouldn't care. Even though I still lo--- Oh shut up Albie..your an idiot!@
"What???", Kath says in shock.
"I'll take that as a yes. Bye Albie, bye Migs.", Aria said while dragging Kath away.
Once their retreating figures dissappered Migs and Albie went to their lockers.
Albie angrily opened his locker while Migs watched.
Migs POV
Sorry Albie, I promised not to tell.
"If your upset you can say so.", Migs said.
"I'm not upset. Why would I be upset? Me and Kath were never together anyway.", Albie said as he got his books out.
"Are you sure your fine?", Migs said.
"Of course."
"Then why did you take out your Language Arts notebook we have World History next.", Migs said.
"So I mistaked the books.", Albie said.
"Albie's today's Monday. You don't even have Language Arts today."
"Like that's an accurate way to see if I'm upset."
"But you are, aren't you.", and just like that Migs left, leaving Albie standing in the hall dumbfounded.
Albie's POV
I'm not upset I swear. I don't lov-- Well that would be lying I do love her. But--- Ugh..this is driving me over the edge. I've got to be strong. for the sake of her happiness.
Then Albie went forward following Migs closely behind.
Chapter 25: Untitled
After school
Kath, Migs, Aria, and Albie are walking down the hallway.
"Know what? Strike that out. You guys can go out alone. Me and Migs have our own plans.", Aria said with a devious smile.
"Plans? What plans?", Migs says as Aria suttily kicks him in the shin.
"Don't tell me you forgot...it's our year anniversary...WAHHHHHHHHHHHH!", Aria said as she buried her head into his shoulder."
"Aria...I'm sorry...I really am.", he said as he comforted her.
"Eh stupid our year anniversary is next week..ugh your getting a beating.", Aria hisses.
Albie and Kath just watched the two in amusement.
"Please tell John that we had to cancel but please you guys still must got out. Call me later.", Aria said between sobs.
Migs led her away but Aria turns around.
"Albie my mom needs to talk to you so just come with.", Aria said.
"Come with? For what?", Albie said.
"Just come.", Aria sobbed out.
Albie stares back at Kath longingly but he goes with Aria.
"Bye Kath.", Albie said with a small wave.
"Bye."
When they reached Aria's house Aria as back to her perky self.
Albie's POV
Your up to something. I know it.
"Ummm what did Auntie need from me?", Albie asks.
"Umm nothing.", Aria said.
"Oh my gawd. Aria what do you want?"
"Eh I told you this was a bad idea.", Migs hissed.
"Migs shut up.", Aria said.
"But it is. First you trick Albie with that false double date arrangement to make him act or whatever and now you--."
But Albie interrupted.
"Oh my gawd Aria you cannot just do that! You can't and you know----you know how I feel about her.", Albie yelled.
"Well you know what Albie? You need a huge kick in the ***! Seriously. Did you ever give her a chance to say anything? NO YOU JUST SAY..'wo ai ni' and ramble about how she doesn't love you. BUT SHE DOES! You have no idea how much you hurt her. And I'm sorry for plotting against you and I hate that but it has to be done.", Aria said.
Albie just stared at her with disbelief.
"She....lo---ov--es me?", Albie stutters out.
"Yes you single cell lifeform!", Aria let out.
"But Andi said---"
"Andi is a *****! I thought we established that!", Aria said.
At that said Albie just sat down in silence.
Albie's POV
Oh my gawd? How can I be so stupid? You are so freakin stupid!
Aria let out a huge sigh as Migs comforted her.
"Okay Albie. I know your really pissed at me and my plotting but Kath is going to tell me where they're going out. And once we know we're going to follow them.", Aria said.
"FOLLOW THEM?", Albie said.
"Just go with me here. Get a goodnights rest I'll call you to when you have to get ready", Aria said.
"BUT.", Albie protested.
"Go home Albie.", Aria said as she pushed him out the door.
Aria tilted her body against the door and let out a sigh of relief.
"ARIA!!! You only half told him the truth and your doing the same to Kath! What if this all ends in disaster?", Migs blurted out.
"Disaster..nonsense."
"Aria. Whatever do what you want. And our anniversary is this week.", Migs said as he approached the door.
"Wait. It is?", Aria asked.
"Yes..", Migs said.
Mgs was about to leave but Aria grabbed his hand.
"I'm sorry for dragging you in. And I'm sorry for forgetting our anniversary. Aria said as he kissed his cheek.
" I just hope this plan doesn't backfire.", Migs said.
Chapter 26: Unexpected
Three mysterious figures are looming behind Kath and John as they walk the on the streets.
"Ouch! Migs you stepped on my foot!", the figure said given away their identitities.
You guessed it the three figure are Aria, Migs, and Albie.
"Aria are you sure we should intrude on them?", Albie said nervously.
"You want to win her back don't you?", Aria hisses.
"Will you guys shut up!!! They're going inside the that restaurant. HURRY!", Migs said as they rushed into the restaurant.
Kath and John took a table at the very back.
"Quick lets take the table behind the bush.", Aria hissed.
They were about to split when a waiter went in front of them.
"Umm which table would you like?", the waiter asked.
"Umm the one behind the bush.", Migs points.
"Let me check if the table has a reservation.", the waiter said as she checked the list.
Albie's POV
Please let it have no reservation. Please don't.
"It's free.", the waiter said.
The three followed the waiter while ducking making the other customers look at them strangely.
"What would you three like to drink.", the waiter asked.
"Water.", Aria responded for them.
"What would you like to eat?", the waiter asked.
"The three items at the top of the menu.", Aria said quickly diverting her attention to John and Kath.
"Are you sure miss?", the waiter questioned.
"Yes now go away.", Aria barked.
The three watch the two with burn in glares.
"Oh my gawd.", Aria gasps.
"What? WHAT?", Albie says while leaning over Aria.
"Hey what's going on? I want to see!", Migs says, leaning over Albie.
"Will you guys stop leaning?? I'm going to---FALL!", Aria said as she tumbled out of the chair having Albie and Migs go down with her.
"Oh my gawd?", Kath said as she notices them.
Then out of nowhere a girl comes over and snaps John across the face.
"Is this what you call vacationing??? You come here to have a little fling???", the girl said with tears brimming.
"Umm honey..let me explain.", John said nervously.
"Yes Miss this is a misunderstanding we're just---", Kath started to stay but the girl already ran away.
John looked apologetically at Kath
"You can leave.",Kath wih a nod.
The three just looked at the scene with wide eyes.
"This wasn't suppose to go down like this! Why did John’s girlfriend have to show up?? We were already maiing Albie
jealous and...", Aria stopped realizing what she just said.
Albie got out of the heap of them and stood up.
"What do you mean??? You made me believe that they were going out?", Albie said.
*gulp* Aria sounded as she swallowed her saliva and slowly stood up.
"Yes.", Aria said with her head down.
Kath's POV
Oh my..what's going to happen now.
Albie than turned to Migs.
"You knew too?", Albie said.
"Well you see Albie...", Migs started.
"I don't want to hear it.", Albie said as he turned his heel and started to walk away.
"Wait.", Kath said.
At that Albie turned around.
"I already know Kath. Your apart of this too. I thought I meant more to you than that."
Then Albie left leaving Kath standing their with tears slipping down her cheeks.
Chapter 27: Unexpected Part II
Albie stormed out of the restaurant. He just kept on running and walking running without looking back.
Albie's POV
I'm sorry Kath. I just can't take it anymore.
Meanwhile back at the restaurant.
Kath stood there dumfounded while Migs and Aria just stood like soldiers.
"You entrees are ready miss. That would be 12,000", the waiter said.
"WHAT?", Aria yelled.
"You said the first three entrees.", the waiter explained.
Kath's POV
I've got to get out of here.
Migs reached inside his pocket. Here's the money.
"Migs you don't have to pay.", Aria said.
"Consider this our anniversary.", Migs said as he handed the waiter the wad of cash.
Kath turned her heel and started to walk away.
"Kathryn WAIT!", Aria yelled.
Kath slowly turned around and forced a smile.
"Have a nice anniversary. I need to go somewhere.", Kath said.
"But Kath.", Aria protested.
"I NEED TO GO.", Kath said firmly.
And then Kath left despite the pleas of Aria to stop. She just kept on running and running.
Chapter 28: Kathryn and Albie Always
Albie and Kath both stop out of breath on the street. They are so near to each other yet they are unaware of each others presence.
The both run to their old middle school middle school building and Albie arrives first.
He ascends the steps and puts his hands in a shouting position.
"Kathryn Chandria Bernardo!! I LOVE YOU !!! I'M SO STUPID FOR HURTING YOU! I'M SORRY FOR NOT SAYING I LOVE YOU!", Albie yells.
Meanwhile Kath is on the bottom floor hearing the echo.
Kath's POV
Albie is here. Oh my gawd.
She rushes up the staircase at full speed. All she could here was the beating of her heart.
She slowly walks up and opens the door and quietly steps in in the middle of Albie's yelling.
"Kathryn I LOVE YOU! I'm SORRY! FORGIVE ME!", Albie yelled.
Kath than slowly walks up to the far end of the ledge and yells herself.
"I FORGIVE YOU! HAVEN'T YOU KNOWN ALL THIS TIME I LOVED YOU!"
At that an out of breath Albie turns around and sees Kath.
"Kath.", Albie says out of breath.
She slowly approaches him and tears are falling down her flawless cheeks.
"I love you.", Kath says was Albie engulfs her in a sweet embrace.
"I love you too.", Albie said.
"I'm sorry. I'm so sorry.", Kath says while burying her head into his chest.
"I'm the one who should be sorry. The truth is Kath. I've always been in love with you.", Albie said.
At that Kath pulled out of his embrace gently.
"Can we sit down?", Kath says calmly.
They both sit down next to each other with their hands intertwined.
"So you loved me?", Kath asked.
"With all my heart."
"Why didn't you tell me back then?", Kath asked with pleading eyes.
"Because I was afraid of losing you again.", Albie said softly.
At that they faced each other with their faces only inches apart.
"We are so weird. If only we both hadn't been so stubborn and just admitted our feelings to each other. Than maybe things might of been better.", Kath said.
"Shhh Kath. It's alright. I'm sorry for yelling at you earlier. I know Aria had good intentions.", Albie said.
"So where does this leave us?", Kath asked pleadingly.
"Well I'd like it if we'd be together. That is if you'll accept me.", Albie said with his eyes closed.
And at that Kath leaned in and kissed him.
That kissed seemed to last for an eternity but in reality it was only but a few seconds.
"Kath?", Albie said.
"Mmmhmmm.", Kath mummered.
"Here.", Albie said as he pulled out the star charm bracelet out of his pocket.
"You have it?", Kath said out of curiosity.\
"Of course. I've been waiting for the day to give it back to you. And this time I hope you keep it forever as I sign of me loving you always.", Albie said.
"Your so corny!", Kath said with a giggle.
"But that’s why you love me?", Albie asked.
"Of course."
And than the promised was sealed with yet another kiss.
Chapter 29: Epilogue: My Happy Ending
As I stand here in the street I smile with all my being.
I'm so lucky, so fortunate.
I am in love and I'm being loved in return.
Sigh.
"KATH!", Albie yells interrupting my thoughts.
"Eh you stupid idiot!", I shouted.
"Your the one who is not listening to me!", Albie retorts.
"Well...", I say walking ahead.
"Eh! WHY ARE YOU WALKING AWAY!", Albie says trying to catch up to me.
"Nothing.", I said.
"Kath...don't walk away from me. It makes me think you don't love me anymore.", Albie says in a fake sad voice.
"Your such a baby!", I said while walking down the street.
"WELL DO YOU?", Albie said louder.
I just ignored him and kept on walking until I realize he's not following me anymore.
I look back and there he is standing on a bench.
" What are you doing?", I said with panic.
"ATTENTION! ATTENTION PASSERBYS!", Albie yells making people stop in the street.
"I Albie Casino am in love with this woman.", he says gesturing towards me.
This aroused cheers from the crowd.
"Eh get down from there you are so embarrassing.", I said while grabbing his hand.
"But the problem is she never says I love you.", he said making the crowd say boos.
" I did say I love you just last week."
"But you don't say it all the time."
"But that doesn't mean I don't love you.", I protested.
"Well prove it.", Albie said while getting down from the bench.
My Albie. Such an idiot. I sighed and gave him and climbed onto the bench.
"I Kathryn Chandria Bernardo am in love with Albie Casino!", I yelled causing the crowd to cheer even louder.
"KISS! KISS! KISS!", the crowd chanted.
Albie grinned. "Come on Kath lets give the crowd what the want."
"stupid.", I said protesting.
Albie just looked at me.
"EH YOU---ummpp.", I said as Albie captured my lips.
Looks like we made it.
This guy’s inlove with you Pare!
written by: REENA
CHAPTER 1
Ben and Cha have long been friends since their diaper years. Benedict being the only son of a lawyer who has been always out of the house while his mom a dedicated home maker. Ben is fond of outdoor sports. Soccer, skateboards and his current fling—rock climbing and mountain hiking.
Chandria on the other hand is the 5th child and the only girl in the family. Her parents both being half-chinese are into a garment business and general merchandise. Cha is close to his brothers despite a huge age gap 6 being the shortest span from his kuya Albert. Living in a house with boys Cha is considered a tomboy, even Benedict his childhood friend thinks of him as such. A thing Cha is not comfortable with. “Hindi ako tomboy. Tomboy ba yung patay na patay ako kay Benedict Ilustre?” ofcourse she has no guts to say that out loud especially to her kuyas. She didn’t want them to know just yet.
Benedict goes to Ateneo an all boy highschool while Cha attends Miriam School for girls. They have the same ride 2x a week because of number coding for cars. It’s the last day of school that day.
B: Hoy pogi bakit ang tagal mo lumabas gutom nako.
C: (grins) pogi ka jan. eh bat di ka kumain nasakin ba tiyan mo?
B: (pinches Cha’s nose) bat ang sungit ng pare ko ngayon? PMS ka ba? Haha o kaya nabasted ka ni Aria no. hahaha uyyy basted!
C: basted? Hello. Alisin mo nga yang kamay mo sa mukha ko. Sira ka talaga. Pumasok ka na uwi na tayo.
B: Op anong uwi? Manlilibre ka dahil mas mataas grades ko sayo this time.
C: asa ka. Tawagan mo nalang si auntie Milet (Ben’s mom) para pagluto nya tayo ng carbonara!
B: ang daya mo naman nagpromise ka pogi na ililibre mo ko diba, party pooper!
C: ako pa party pooper? Bukas nalang nga kase wala ako sa mood.
B: kelan ka pa nawala sa mood…sige na mall na tayo para makahanap tayo ng chicks
C: (Grins) chicks ka jan. he halika na uwi na.next time ok.
B: labo mo kausap!
Pumasyal si Cha sa mga Ilustre sandal para humalik kay Milet.
C: Auntie hello…kumusta po kayo
M: Im good para naman di tayo nagkita kanina
C: na-miss lang kase kita auntie
B: Chusera ka chandria ma sumisipsip lang yan gusto lang nyan ng merienda
M: nakakatawa talaga kayong dalawa.o sige na magluluto na ako. Anjan ba ang mga kuya mo Cha?
C: auntie it’s a Friday im sure Sunday pa kame mabubuo…whats new
M: sige magbihis ka na para makalipat ka agad ok.
C: buti pa ikaw auntie welcome mko ditto sana tlaga sainyo nagmana si bentong. Sabay takbo pauwi.
Chandria found a second mother to Milet. She was very kind to her. Minsan mas close pa sila ni milet kaysa sa mami niya na humahawak garment business nila. Sa mga kapatid nya siya mas malapit lalo na kay albert. Albert is a senior in business management. Sa mga kuya nya ito lang ang may potential na mag-manage ng business nila. Joseph their eldest is a lawyer joined Benjamin Ilustre’s law firm. Her other kuya Alexander is an architect based na sa Australia. Followed by Matthew na nasa med school. Albert has no choice but to take up management so someone can take over their business.kaya sanay siya na nasa mga Ilustre, She is at home.
At home Cha felt lonelier than she was earlier.Nalaman kase niya sa classmate niyang si Aria na crush ni Julia si Ben. Julia is Ben’s ultimate crush. Bakit ganon, si Julia ang gusto niya eh kame ang friends. Pareho lang naman kameng maputi ng Julia na yun. Matangkad lang siya ng konti…Cha was so depressed she wanted to just tuck herself to bed. Saka naman nagring ang cellphone niya. Its Aria her closest “girlfriend”. Kinukuento nito na magkatext na daw sina Julia and Ben. Something Ben didn’t let her know. Julia invited Ben to her sweet 16, which she has not receive any invite. “this is not good” Cha was mumbling to herself. It’s the end of the world for her. Ben will never like Chandria Tan. So she decided not to show up to the Ilustre household. She decided to just play Nintendo wii. Great isa sa mga form of bonding nila ni Ben yun. “Dota nalang kaya??? “ she asked herself aloud. Aargh! She feels pathetic. Matutulog nalang sana siya ng gutom when the door of her room opened wide. It was Ben.
B: Hoy pare ano ba bat di ka pa lumilipat ang lamig na ng carbonara hoy!
C: don’t you know how to knock?
B: Knock? Kelan pako kumatok sa kwarto mo. Arte mo ha!
C: Eh kung hubad pala ako ha? Di mo naisip?
Ben laughed out loud as if it’s the funniest joke he has heard.
B: hoy pareng Charlie wag ka nga ilusyonado jan. wala naman ako makikita sayo na di ko pa nakita. Sabay naman tayo maligo dati.
C: ewan ko *** get out of my room
B: wow makasigaw ka lang. aalis nako mukhang busy ka kay darling Aria mo.
Cha wondered how Ben knew na si Aria ang katext niya, napatingin siya sa phone 6 messages received from Aria. Hindi na kase siya nagpaalam kanina. She just hung up on her. Bumalik siya sa pgkakahiga. Decided na itulog ang gutom at craving nya sa warmth ng Ilustre household. Mailap ang antok sa kanya. He was seeing Ben’s face whether her eyes were opened or closed. It was frustrating how she felt so helpless na itago ang feelings niya for Benedict whom she silently loved eversince she knew what love was. Iniisip nya kelan ba niya unang minahal si benedict. That thought was disturbed by the light that suddenly opened her room. When she looked at the door it was Benedict. Great…great imagination.
B:Cha, pinapadalan ka ni mama ng food. Saka nag-alala nako sayo. Ok ka lang ba?
“I must be dreaming” cha silently whispered.
B:Cha ano ka ba? (Lumapit kay Cha)
C: Bentong?
B: oo na bentong na. are you ok?
Cha sat on her bed. OO nga si Benedict nga.
C: Why are you here?
B: worried nga ako sayo and I brought you food. ANo ba nangyayari sayo?
C: wala. Wala lang ako sa mood.
B: Basted ka nga kay Aria?
C: hello im not gay. Oo basted ako pero hindi kay Aria. Babae ako ok
Benedict laughed. Laughed hard.
C: fine laugh…akala mo ba nakakatuwa.
B: hay nako ang pare ko nga inlove. (Sabay yakap kay Cha) kumain ka na okay I’ll stay here after hindi mo bagay ang ganyan when you’re ready to tell me, makikinig ako.
Chandria doubted Benedicts words. Kaya nya kayang sabihin ka Benedict ang feelings nya for him. It was used to be so easy before. She can keep her feelings to herself. Pero she was all of a sudden depressed with the thought that Benedict could be pursuing Julia. Sana sya nalang.She fought hard to fight the tears from falling. Later did she realize sinusubuan na siya ni benedict ng food and he was wiping her tears away. After eating Benedict tucked her to bed. She slept soundly. She felt renewed when she woke up the next day. She has a plan. A plan to pursue Benedict. Her ultimate dream. Growing up her only dream was to be with Ben, just to be with him,,,that’s her plan in life.
CHAPTER 2
B: Cha? Yoohoo ano na nga ang plano mo na course?
Cha wondered ano ba isasagot dun? The only plan she has is to be Mrs. BENEDICT ILUSTRE.
C: Dunno. Ikaw ba? Pursuing law?
B: May choice ba ako. Ano enroll ka din Ateneo with me? By the way Julia’s taking up polsci din sa Ateneo.
C: Oh talaga? That makes the 3 of us.
Napatingin si Benedict sa kaibigan. Is this girl even serious. Take up polsci? Kelan pa? Chandria on the other hand wondered why ganon ang reaction ni Ben. May mali bas a sinabi niya? Gusto lang naman niang bantayan si Benedict.
C: Ayaw mo ba? Eh di wag yabang mo.
B: ALam mo ikaw ang sensitive mo lately. May problema ka ba ?
C: wala, alis nako imma see Aria na lang. Girl bonding
B: Girl bonding? Yeah right.
CHandria went to see Aria. Humingi siya ng advice sa kaibigan nya. Aria told her to start with the basic. Be the right girl for Benedict. Literally become a girl first. Palitan nag wardrobe, ang pagkilos . Accdg to Aria prang mini-me na kase sia ni benedict. Hindi halatang crush niya ito but someone she idolizes. Cha was open with the change. Hindi madali pero ginawa nya. They spent the whole day sa salon. Haircut, highlights manicure and pedicure. Desidido sya to change. Not to show to Benedict until she is the BETTER CHANDRIA. Her road to being Mrs. Benedict Ilustre. The next day Shopping naman inatupag ni Aria and Cha, buti nalang bingyan sya ng pera ng mga kuya niya.
On the other hand, Benedict is missing Cha. Ilang araw nya nang di nakakasama ang kababata. Weird how Cha suddenly is acting strange. Gusto pa naman niyang isama ito sa hiking sa Pampanga for 3 days. He was looking forward to spent the summer vacation with his baby…natatawa siya na isipin na baby niya si Cha, eh ang maton naman. Minsan gusto niya isipin na may gusto siya kay Cha. Pero he kept on shoving that thought. For him they are more than friends pero malabong lagyan ng malisya yun. Malabo., malabong relasyon talaga. Dahil hindi Makita si Cha , he decided to play basketball sa clubhouse ng village. On his way there nakasalubong niya ang service car nina Aria. He was disappointed. Alam na nniya na ngayon na si Aria ang kasama ni Cha. No wonder why no pansin sia kay Cha dahil kay Aria. “When will you ever learn that you are for boys and not a boy?” minsan hindi na nia alam kung tamang isipin na tomboy ang kaibigan nya. Kasalanan ba niya na nagging ganun si Cha?
A: sis super excited ako malaman ang reaction ni Ben sa bagong anyo mo.
C: sa palagay mo ba magugustahan ni Ben ito?
A: for sure. Ewan ko ba jan sa kaibigan ang labo bakit si Julia pa kase.
C: Kasalanan mo kase yan pinakilala mo pa yung kapitbahayy mo nay un.
A: malay ko ban a magiging ganon… di bale im sure pag nakita ka ng bestboyfriend mo eh back to ur arms na angdrama nia.
C; sana talaga sis…hindi ko na nga alam pano siya haharapin ngayong naiisip ko palang na liligawan niya si Julia eh pano kung sagutin siya bigla…mamatay ako
Aria suddenly laughed. “SIS di ko inakala na you had that in you, that corny jologs you.”Chandria blushed. She told Aria na hindi palang kase nito na-e-experience mainlove ng wagas.
After basketball Ben was planning to crash Cha’s house bago pa niya gumawa tumawag na si Julia sa cellphone niya. Nag-aaya itong mag-clubbing. He said he’s going to try. Just maybe Cha would want to go…if Cha wont go then he wont go, maybe Cha would be up for some video games til dawn with him. Hindi niya alam bakit but he was so excited to see Cha.
Chapter 3
Both Cha and Ben were surprised to see each other. Benedict was thinking if his eyes were deceiving him.is this his friend he's looking at? Ah, this change, he is liking it. On the other hand Cha did not expect Ben to see him this soon, she was planning a dramatic entrance to show the improved her.
C: err, bentong bat andito ka?
B: Ano nangyari sayo.. ahm ayain sana kita mag-clubbing, thats if gusto mo lang? no pressure.
Hindi sigurado si Benedict kung yun pa ang gusto nyang gawin. I-display si cha? para makita ng iba? HELL NO!
B: I dont think it ba good idea to go clubbing…so wag nalang siguro
Chandria felt upset, yun lang ang reaction nito sa effort ko? Epic fail!
C: no... gusto mo ba magpunta? magpapaalam ako kay kuya. We can go.
B: uhm really? how about video games?
C: video games. hmm that sound interesting pero mukhang pang-clubbing siguro yung ayos ko. ano your driver or my driver??
B: it doesnt matter.
Ben shrugged. maybe tama nga na mag-clubbing sila ng magkasama. mababantayan niya si cha. why the hell is she that pretty today? parang kanina lang gusto nyang sabihan ito na magpakababae. nabasa ba ni chandria ang nasa isip nya? and then naalala niya si julia. his crush. pano niya i-di-divide ang attention nya bet Cha and julia?
dilemma after dilemma...
In the club Julia was with a bunch of teen-agers like them. Some smoked, some have beers...he never did any of those. Benedict squeezed Chandria's hand, as if reassuring her everything is going to be okay. Cha was just wishing that somehow Ben will give his undivided attention to her. She knew that was a long shot. It'll never happen. With Julia around, odds are she will be a mere wallflower. she texted Aria if her friend can come. Mukhang tulog na ang kaibigan nya. Julia gave Benedict a hug.
J: so glad you guys made it. hi chandria.
Cha gave Julia an awkward smile. with a mental note of: stay away from Benedict he is mine.Ofcourse she has possessive thoughts. Julia grabbed Ben's hand and tugged him to the dancefloor. cha watched everything happened. one. two. three! fast songs until a lousy romantic sobby slow love song played. her heart crashed into pieces. Great bakit ba siya sumama? She unknowingly sipped her pink lemonade once the panting Julia and Benedict made it back to their seat.
B: cha uhaw ka ba? wala ng laman yan you want me to get you another one?
C: uhm,,, nah. was just playing with it... bored nako. uhm ben pwede na ba tayo umuwi? i feel like I’m gonna have rhinitis.
J: wag na muna wala pang midnight. pahatid ka nalang sa driver cha.
Chandria's jaw dropped. The nerve of this girl na pangunahan siya. ito na nga umagaw ng date niya, winasak na puso nya gusto pa ipakain sa leon sa selos. she didnt fake a smile and looked at her intently.
B: oh no julia. iuuwi ko na si cha. she is my responsibility, di kase pwede maexpose si cha sa smoke, kailangan ko alagaan ito eh, bossing ko to, (sabay squeeze sa hand ni Cha)
Chandria watched julia's face turned red. and she was rejoicing inside. Magic nawala kahit papano ang galit niya kay benedict. marunong naman pala bumawi ang mokong
she stood up.
B:sorry jules ha we need to get going. hindi talaga pwede umuwi magisa si cha.
j: fine. babawi ka sa akin next time benedict.
isang mababaw na ngiti ang ibinalik nya kay julia. in her thoughts she was declaring war with her. and the price is Benedict Ilustre.
Ben was guilty while looking at cha in the car on their way home. Nakapikit si cha. blank face. alam niya he shouldnt have left her just like that.Hindi dapat siya nakipagsayaw kay julia.But why is he guilty? Ofcourse he should dance with Julia. Long time crush niya un. Lalaki siya, anjan na yung palay…dapat tukain…pero not in the expense of ignoring Chandria.
B:cha...tol...sorry ha pinilit lang ako ni julia eh
cha didnt bother to open her eyes. tama bang ipaalala pasa kanya yung nangyari? Sapakin na kaya niya? Pasalamat ito mahal niya eh…
c: napilitan ka pa pala sa lagay na yun 5 kanta? pano pa kaya kung hindi? isang buong concert kayo magkadikit ng princess mo?
Cha's chest was crushing again. Princess, it was ben's enedearment for Julia alam nya yun....
B: sobra ka naman apat na kanta lang naman. higpit nga ng hawak nya sa akin.
Napabukas ang mata niya..
c: siya o ikaw ang mahigpit hawak. pogi mo ha. kapal neto.
b: oo pogi talaga ko pogi pa ko sayu no. (syempre kikindat! yihee)
c: haha patawa ka. kapal mo.
b: sige next time tayo dalawa 2 concert pa isasayaw natin.
c: dream come true oh romeo save me. kapaaaal ( cha pinched ben's nose)
b: sobra ka naman..ui cha i wanna take you with me sa hiking next week, promise i'll take good care of you. i'm all yours.
once again cha's heart is melting. sana alam ni benedict na ganun ang effect nito sa puso nya.
b: i wont take no for an answer. ipapagpaalam kita kina auntie and uncle. wala ka naman na poproblemahin sa baon...please.
cha was enjoying every second of this.. bawing-bawi na si benedict sa kanya! Pahirapan muna kaya niya to?
C: ipagpaalam mo muna ako then i'll decide...
C: yessss! i knew it u'll never sAy no to me...( sabay kurot sa cheeks ni cha)
CHAPTER 4
Chandria is excited as ever sa hiking niya with Benedict. She was the sporty type so she longs for those experiences. It was always heaven being with Benedict. She was carefully picking out the stuffs to bring. She wanted to look great kahit pawisan na sila sa bundok. She wasn’t used to being Barbie doll playing dress up pero natutuwa siya sa attention na binibigay ni Benedict. She felt the difference. Ben seldom calls her “Tol” or “pare” madalas “boss” na. She finds it endearing kahit na less romantic, she still thinks its cute. Madalas na din siya alalayan ni Ben out of the car, opening doors for her, and she is enjoying it. Speaking of the devil her cellphone rang and it’s Benedict.
C: Yes po? Yeah getting ready na…ano jogging pants? Naman bentong mainit. Oo shorts, ano ba sa akala mo ang dapat ko dalhin dun? Namannnn… oo na papalitan na. old maid.
Benedict was telling Cha not to wear shorts for the hike. OO alam nya maganda legs ni Cha…preetiest pair of legs he has ever seen, madame na siya restrictions ngayon. Marami silang kasamang lalaki sa hike, and he doesn’t trust anyone of them. Not for Chandria atleast. Mamaya ichecheck niya lahat ng dalang gamit ni Chandria mabuti na yung sigurado.
Chandria shook her head. Minsan nagugulat siya na capable palang maging overprotective si Benedict sa kanya. Maybe because she was a tomboy kaya ngayon lang niya narealize na gentleman pala si Benedict.
They left for the hike at 3 am. Ayaw kase nilang maarawan. Napapataas ng kilay si Chandria dahil parang inspector gadget si Benedict sa kakatingin sad ala niyang backpack.
C: ano na naman bang hinahanap mo kase jan? wala akong dalang illegal utang na loob.
B: Iam checking your wardrobe ok.
C: wow pageant ba to para mkacheck ka jan.
B: Just making sure lets go.
Benedict smile as he took Chandria’s hand. It’s going to be along walk in the woods. Its going to be great. On the other hand Cha felt like a princess. Isa-isang pinakilala ni Benedict ang mga kasama nila sa hike. There were only 2 girls aside from her, si Peachy na girlfriend daw ng lead na hiker and Carla na kasama din ang boyfriend nitong hiker na si John. Kasama ni Carla ang kuya nito si Carlos. Cha eyed at that Carlos. Tall dark and well, cute. She shrugged, mas may guguwapo pa ba kay benedict niya? Feeling girlfriend siya ni benedict although, friend and “boss” ang pakilala nito sa mga fellow hikers nila.
Half-way through the hike, the lead hiker to stop for some snacks. Agad naman nag-offer ng water si benedict kay Cha.
B: B, water oh.
Nagulat si Cha, napatingin din mga kasama nila sa tawag ni benedicts a kanya. Her eyebrows met, Did she just heard him call her B? as in baby?
Benedict realized he called her B. ang secret term of endearment niya for Chandria.
B: Boss ano ka ba… o water mo.
Umiwas ng tingin si Benedict. Halatang guilty. Hindi naman mapigilan ni Cha ang ngumiti. Parang feeling niya pwede na siyang mamatay…oops wag muna she told herself. Hindi pa niya natitikman ang luto ni God for her. Cross-fingers na si Benedict yun. The lead hiker said last 5 minutes nalang daw ng rest lakad na sila uli. Chandria took the face towel from her backpack and called Benedict.
C: Bentong halika. (She wiped his sweaty face) baka naman sabihin mo pinapabayaan kita.
Benedict blushed…everyone in the group looked at them with the smile on their face. Tawang kinikilig.
(Authors note: parang ako din tawang kinikilig right now. Sabeeeeee???)
C: ah eto face towel baka sabihin ni auntie milet mabaho bakulaw niya.
Dahil napahiya she shoved the face towel into Benedict’s face, naglakad siya palayo ditto. Benedict with his big steps catched up with cha and took her arm.
B: Boss naman wag mo ko iwan. Nagmamadali?
C: bagal mo kase, lets go…
she swear to God she felt a spark as Ben held her arm. Dati naman siya hinahawakan ni Ben pero bakit parang iba yung ngayon. As days passed she’s feeling more intense.
When they reached the campsite, agad na nag-set up sila ng tent. While the 3 girls prepared food.
Carla: don’t get me wrong ha cha. I thought kayo ni ben.
Chandria blushed and whispered to herself, “I wish”
C: no were friends. We go a long way.
P: Wow ang showbiz naman ng sagot mo. Howcome ngayon ka lang sumama sa mga hike. One year na din nmin nkakasama si benedict ah?
C: he never asked me to come with him.
Napatango nalang sina peachy and Carla. After meal naman the started to collect wood for the nights campfire, magkasama sina Chandria and Benedict na maghanap ng kahoy.
B: mamaya magpalit ka na ng damit ha, basa ka na ng pawis. Gamitin mo yung long sleeves ko, halos sleeveless dala mo.
C: naman? Ang init kaya, Bentong naman eh
B: wag ka na makulit papakin ka ng lamok.
C: that’s torture.
B: That’s torture (sarcastic tone) do as I say
C: DO as you say or do as you please. Hitler!!!!
Chandria walked away.
B: aba walk out queen ka na ngayon? Ikaw ha nagdadamit babae ka lang primadona ka na. Ano ba hoy wag mo nga ko iwan. Hoy chandria…
Ben catched up with Cha at bigla nalang ito binuhat ng parang baby at walang sabi-sabi. Nahulog lahat ng kahoy na napulot na ni cha saka nalang ito napatili.
C:let me go Ben oh m God I hate you.
Narinig ni Carlo ang sigaw nay un. He was sure si Cha yun. The girl with the other guy. Saying naman crush pa naman sana niya Si Chandria. He followed the voice to make sure the girl is safe. Mas nagulat siya nang Makita niyang karga ni Ben si Cha.
Carlo: Ok lang ba siya pare?
GUlat na napatingin sina Ben and Cha sa pinanggalingan ng boses. Ben answered without making and effort to put Chandria down.
B: yeah pare ok lang. takot lang kase itong bossing ko sa ahas… (sabay tawa)
Chandria grabbed Benedict’s hair.
C: Sira ulo. Put me down. Im ok, Carlo right? Im fine. Sorry to have bothered you.
Tumango nalang si Carlo saka lumayo.
C: tignan mo yung gawa mo nakaka-istorbo pa tayo ng ibang tao, ang kulet mo kase.
Ben merely answered with a smile.Pinulot nalang niya lahat ng kaho na tumapon ng kulitin nya si Cha.
B: halika na bossing balik na tayo sa camp site.
After dinner the started the fire while some people played guitar and sang along. Chandria silently admired Carlo’s ability to play the guitar. He has a voice too… bakit kaya si Benedict boses palaka. Natawa siya sa naisip. Speaking of the devil lumapit ang pinakamamahal nya may dalang Snapple.
C: thank you bents.
B: aray naman hindi mo ba talaga papalitan ang Bentong naman? (sabay pinch sa nose ni Cha)
C: cute kaya yun. Cute si bentong favorite comedian ko kaya yun.
B: (While smiling) so cute ako ganon
Cps, *** ako sinabi nag anon, cute lang ang name na bentong
B: siguro crush mo ko no (sabay kindat!) really Cha never ka ba nagkacrush sakin?
At that point feeling ni Chandria she will develop asthma kahit wala siyang asthma. She blushed. Hindi niya kailangan ng salamin para patunayan yun. She felt red hot blushing. Ano naman kase naisip ni Ben para itanong yun.
C: Uyy kapal mo ah. Wag ka nga makulit Benedict Ilustre…
B: Hindi ka naman mabiro… pero di nga Boss kung mag-dedicate ka ng song para sakin ano un? Dali kakantahin ko.
C: ano ba tigilan mo nga ko. Song ka jan.
B: party pooper ka talaga. Ang corny mo.
On that cue Carlo started to play Howie day’s collide. Maybe Benedict also liked Carlo’s voice and guitar skills bigla nalang siya napaakbay Chandria.
Chandria’s heart and chest was bursting. Benedict’s arm were around her. And carlo’s voice was heaven. Eto pa kinakanta ni Carlo ang song niya for Benedict… could Carlo have read her mind, that Collide is her song Benedict? Ahh she didn’t want to think anymore. She just wanted to enjoy her taste of heaven…
CHAPTER 5
As the night starts to get old they decided to play Truth or dare. Chandria was nervous at the thought. Hindi sya safe sa larong yun…parang naiiyak siya pero she knows wala siyang choice sana lang ipagtanggol siya ni benedict worse come to worse.
The first spin pointed to Carlo. He chose “dare” ang utos sa kanya is sing a song for his inspiration, Carlo silently took his guitar and played Color me Badd’s CLOSE TO HEAVEN and stared at Chandria…lahat ng tao sa circle na yon napatili. How could it be carlo is singing for CHandria.Napansin ni cha yun na sa kanya naka-glue ang mata ni carlo. She must be dreaming… inalis na ang tingin niya ka Carlo and looked at Benedict. To her dismay Ben was staring at his lit phone. Caller ID is shouting Julia’s name. Greaaaat her heaven just fell apart right there.
Bakit naman naninira ng moment si Julia. Benedict missed the part when Carlo was singing to Chandria. He was disturbed with his buzzing phone. Not now he told himself. Pinatay niya ang phone niya and looked at Cha na sa iba na nakatingin. He took her hand and squeezed it. Both Benedict and Chandria doesn’t know the meaning of squeezing hands. It could be comfort? They are not sure… Ben is starting to be confused with his feelings. Chandria on the other hand is still aching.
ON the 15th bottle spin, kay Chandria tumapat ang bottle. She chose dare. Hindi siya comfortable sa pwedeng itanong sa kanya sa truth. Hindi rin siya sigurado kung kaya niyang magsinungaling. Si Peachy ang nakaisip ng dare. Gawin daw niya ang isang bagay na hindi pa niya nagagawa pero gusting gusto niang gawin kay benedict. “Pwede ding censored” pahabol pa nito.
“Sana lamunin nalang ako ng lupa ngayon na” Cha told herself. Ano ba to… alangan naman sabihin kong pakasalan ako nitong Bentong na to. ISip Chandria Tan, isip…She closed her eyes praying to God she could think of something acceptable to get through this dare.
C: uhm alam niyo guys kase diaper days pa magkasama na kame ni Benedict, kahit na sira ulo yan BFF ko yan. Siguro ang gusto lang gawin ngayon is… hoy bentong tignan moko.
She breathe deeper as she was looking intently at Benedicts face. Eye to eye…she held his face.
C: Ben thanks ha. Thanks for taking me places. Thanks for being patient with me. Thanks for taking care of me. Kahit asar ako sayo kahit nakukulitan ka sa kin thankful ako kay God kase lage ka anjan for me.
Doing the unthinkable, Chandria kissed Benedicts’s forehead (Echosera kayo ! noo lang ha wag na ma-BV hahaha)
Everybody in the crowd clapped and laughed with that gesture. Chandria was in tears. A part of her was relieved being able to do that. Nagulat man si benedict sa ginawa ni Cha, deep inside him he was touched. Its like going to a place he never knew existed. A place beyond enem y lines. Walang talo-talo…He opened his eyes to make sure he wasn’t dreaming. The re she is Chandria in tears. He held her face and wiped the tears. For the love of God he just started to pull her closer and buried her face in his chest.
The crowd fell dead silent. They weren’t sure what was happening. Until Carlo broke the silence;
Carlo: Guys late na, maybe we should all call it a night? Maaga pa tayo bukas.
On that cue Cha moved away, nakita niyang isa-isang tumayo ang mga kasama nilang hikers. Hawak pa rin ni Ben ang kamay niya. Benedict smiled at her.
C:sorry ha for putting you thru that drama. (smiling)
B: nah its okay. You need not to thank me, tulog ka na maaga pa tayo bukas.
Ben brought Cha to the girl’s tent. Papasok na si Cha sa tent when he called her again.
B: don’t forget to put insect repellant ok. Sweetdreams
C: opo sir. Thanks.
Both Chandria and Benedict slept well that night. With the fear of waking up to reality. Dahil nakasanayan, maaga nagising si Cha. Nadatnan niyang may wild flowers sa tapat ng tent nila. Dahil 3 silang girls hindi siya sure kung para kanino un. She was more than sure that its not for her. Nevertheless she peeked into it and surprised to see na para sa kanya yun.
The note just said “TO CHA HOPE YOU HAD THE SWEETEST DREAM”
Kanino naman kaya un nanggaling? Deep in her she hoped it was Ben, but if not who could it be? Everyone seemed to be sleeping still. She took the flowers and placed it in her backpack… She decided to boil water. Maybe a hot chocolate will make her day brighter…
After their brunch nagdecide na ang lahat na umuwi na. Mostly kase sa mga kasama nila ma mga trabaho pa na kailangan balikan sa manila. Chandria was trying to read benedict’s movements, iniisip nya kung ka benedict nga ba talaga galling yun flowers. Wala naman siyang makitang iba. Makulit pa din ito, extra gentle sa kanya. Either than that there was no give-away kung ka ben nga galling yun flowers. Pagdating sa base while the guys were loading the baggaes sa coaster lumapit si Carlo kay Chandria.
CARLO: Did u like the flowers?
Chandria was in awe. She didn’t expect na kay carlo pala galling un flowers. She was in a way disappointed, but flattered.
C: oh yes thank you. Di ka n asana pala nagabala.
Carlo: a girl like you deserve flowers, do ou mind if I get your number from Carla? She wanted me to personally tell you.
Bago pa siya makasagot, hinila na siya ni benedict
B: Bossing tara na baka gabihin tayo.
Chandria did not have the chance to answer carlo, in a way wala rin siyang alam isagot sa tanong ni carlo. Sa Coaster magkatabi sina Ben and cha.
B: ano gusto nun sayo?
Cha looked at Ben, ano naman klaseng tanong yun, she wanted to reply but she looked away.
B: Hoy miss, sabi ako ano gusto nung musikero sayo?
C: (Smiled meaningfully) musikero? Si carlo? Wala hinhingi lang number ko
B: (looked sharp at Cha) binigay mo?
C: wala na ko chance ibigay hinila mo na ko eh.
B: sira ulo pala yun eh. Wag ka papaloko dun!
C: (napalayo) wow judgmental bentong? Malay mo magtatanong lang. sobra ka makalait…alam moba?
B: alam na ano crush mo yun?
C: grabe ka ah level up ang pagiging judgmental mo. Ewan ko sayo.
B: sapakin ko un eh
C: warfreak???
B: ewan ko sayo.
Ben couldn’t help but be pissed. Sinasabe na nga ba niya type ni carlo si baby bossing niya. Kung makatanong kagabi prang private investigator, and he was sure galig kay carlo yung follower na inalis at tinapon niya from Cha’s backpack.
CHAPTER 6
At home Cha was wondering kung asan na *** flower na binigay sa kanya ni carlo. Well she didn’t wanted to keep it knowing na hindi naman pala ka ben galling yun, natutuwa lang siya that someone made an effort to gave her flowers. It was indeed a first time. She cant wait to tell the story of that memorable camping trip to Aria. As she was about to dial Aria’s number her phone rang. Its benedict
B: missed me?
C: Grabe kapal mo, we just parted ways uhm 15 minutes ago.
B: Ouch hindi mo ko namiss? Grabe ka naman
C: ang kuleeet mo talaga, what now?
B: grabe ka naman nag good night lang naman ako. Sweetdreams
C: o sige na good night.
Benedict hang up. Gusto lang naman niya i-check kung ok na si Chandria sa bahay nito. Ang labo niya. Eh siya pa nga naghatid ng gamit nito hanggang sa loob ng bahay ng mga Tan. Weird…something’s wrong with him? He decided to text Julia.
Tatawagan n asana uli ni Cha si Aria when her phone rang again.
C: BENtong kuleeet ha.
Carlo: Sorry is this a bad time.
GUlat si cha, she knew it was Carlo on the other line
C: ahm no, sorry, akala ko kase si Ben. Whats up
Carlo: wow im amazed nagtatawagan pa pala kayo sa phone. That must be something.
Cha blushed. Buti nalang pala hindi sya nakikita ng kausap nakakhiya. For a while nakipagkuentuhan si Cha kay Carlo until her kuya came dala ang landline nila.
Kuya: shobe si benedict hinahanap ka di mo daw sinasagot text niya.
Weird, cha told herself.ang extra kulit ni Bentong…so she decided to cut the conversation with Carlo.
B: ano ba text ako ng text sayo ah
C: what bay un?
B: nood nga tayo sine bukas, sama mo si Aria.
C: emergency? Grabe ka Benedict Ilustre ha akala ko naman gano ka-urgent kung mkatanong ka jan. bakit mo naisipan manood ng sine?
B: nag-aaya si Julia (
gusto sapukin ni benedict ang sarili sa reason na sinabe niya, Hindi man nga siya ngkagana na makatext si Julia because he was so busy missing Chandria. He has no time to analyze wh he felt that way, he just crave being with Cha.
C: yoko tinatamad ako (When all she reall wanted to say was : I hate you go to hell take Julia with you)
B: KJ mo naman b..
C: B ka jan. ayoko ok. Kayo nalang ni Julia mo
B: haha selos ka naman jan. ikaw nga baby ko eh.
C: baby ka jan, ano naman kasunod na banat nun? Baby ako kase madame ako baby fats?
B: Uy sobra ka chandria, baby kase nga kita. Baby sister.
Chandria felt the twin tower crashing all over her. Akala pa naman niya baby in a romantic way na *** sinasabe ni benedict. FLOP.
Benedict starts to curse mentally. Tama ba naming sabihing baby sister? No, he should sort things out. Maybe he needs time think. He was never a gambler. Not when it comes to people he care. And Chandria was that. Someone he cares for. Now he’s not sure.
C: baby sister. Hay naku itulog mo nalang yan kuya bentong. Bukas nalang natin isipin ano gagwin.
B: natin talaga? Hahaha o sige na. benedict dreams hahaha.
C: nyenyenye. Bangungutin ka sana.
Chandria couldn’t sleep. Everything was so hard to digest for her mentally. She enjoyed talking with carlo. And she doesn’t know if she should deal with Carlo. How about Benedict? Benedict who is actibg strangel y since they got back from the hike.
Chandria was waiting for benedict’s text when she woke up. Usually sia ang unang nag-goodmorning kay benedict but she just didn’t have the guts to do it that morning.
She doesn’t realize na every 15 seconds ata kung icheck ang phone niya for Ben’s message. Until finally it beeped. She was kinda upset to see that it was Carlo.
“Good morning, can I have your beautiful smile to brighten my day my dear?”
Kinilig si Cha at the thought. Hindi naman siya rude and she thought wala naman masama sa hinihiling ni Carlo so she replied with a simple . Parang magic, parang energy drink, she decided to go jogging. 7am, ok pa naman para mag-jogging. She suddenly forgot na hinihintay niya ang text ni benedict. Iniwan nia ang cellphone niya and started jogging around their village. When she came back, weird she had 12 messages none of them coming from Benedict. It was depressing but Carlo again saved the day. He texted “please let me know you are ok. This is my 8th text, starting to worry and about to call the cops” She instantl answered “RLy sory bout that. Tnx 4 d concern went jogging. Have a nice day”
She shrugged the thought na hindi pa nagttext si Benedict, thinking baka tulog pa ito. She took a shower and decided to visit Aria instead. Kinuento nia kay Aria what happened sa hike. And told Aria about Carlo,Aria was psyched about the thought na may bagong lalake sa buhay ni Cha,
A: I feel so positive about that Carlo friend.
C: Bakit naman? I mean its nithung serious.
A: I have a feeling carlo will be a susi to the achievement of your dreams.
C: ano? Ayoko yang aria smile nay an. Ninenerbyos ako haha.
A: wala naman sabi ko lang naman entertain mo yang si Carlo. Hayaan mo na si Benedict.
C: alam mong di ko magagawa yan. Benedict is all I have
A: But is he really yours?
OUCH. Chandria was hit by that truth. She looked at her phone. Dismayed that she has one text. Alam naman niya si carlo yun. Maybe carlo would say enjoy your lunch or maybe kinukuento nito ano lunch nito kahit hindi naman niya tinatanong, she didn’t bother opening it. Open erase. Memorize niya key pads ng cell phone niya.
The deleted message was : GOOD MORNING B. (from Bentong)
Benedict just woke up from the silliest dream he ever had.
(Wehe ano kaya ang dream ni Benedict? Ano kaya ang mangyayari at hindi nabasa ang napakatamis na good morning B niya? Haha itutuloy)
written by: fifa aka lalaloveletters
Marian's Bedtime Story
Mara, who just came home from the National Journalists’ Convention is too tired to tell their daughter, Marian her bedtime story, and it looks like Christian's on the hot seat for this one.
Christian traced his wife's beautiful and peaceful features. She looked so calm, so tranquil, her long black and silky hair spread across the pillow. Mara looked like an angel- and whether she really was a real one or not, she was and will always be his angel.
But Mara was no longer his only angel. He now has two beautiful and loving angels. One is now peacefully sleeping, he kissed this angel’s forehead. His other angel was sitting right next to him, poking her sleeping mommy’s nose and cheeks and whispering loudly to Christian, "Is Mommy really sleeping, Daddy? She hasn't told me my bedtime story yet, I can’t sleep without my bedtime story.”
"Mommy’s sleeping now, Marian. Shhhh, don’t be too loud. Mommy’s very tired from work." Christian quietly whispered to her noisy little angel. Marian frowned and looked at her mommy again. She stubbornly sat next to Mara, refusing to move, repeating that Mommy Mara hadn't told Baby Marian her bedtime story yet. Christian rolled his eyes on this act of his little daughter, cursing himself why his daughter inherited his stubbornness.
"Marian! C’mon now, Baby." Christian said, looking at his daughter pleadingly. Marian bit her lip, pouted, and clutched to her big, pink teddy bear which she called MarTian, before looking at Christian one last time and sighing sadly. "Mommy won't tell me my bedtime story tonight."
Christian patted his daughter's head awkwardly. He never experienced the pain of an untold bedtime story. Marian looked so disappointed, that it melted his heart. "Come on, Sweetie. You need to sleep now." Christian scooped his little daughter into his arms and brought her to her bedroom. Marian wriggled and struggled in his arms, but once he managed to still her and hold her tight, she began to murmur and mumble to herself. The only words he could hear were bedtime story, Mommy, Daddy, and sleep. Christian just smiled as he opened the door to his baby’s bedroom.
"Daddy, I can't sleep without my story or something," she complained, tugging on her daddy’s hair. He sighed and placed Marian on the bed, tucking her in. She looked at him, her eyes big and bright, just like Mara’s eyes. And he knew very well what his daughter was trying to imply.
“Aiiishh.” Christian sighed knowing he lost the battle. Marian already knew she had won and had placed MarTian in a nice comfortable spot next to her. His angels were both incredibly smart and witty, although sometimes it wasn't a good thing for him. Marian smiled widely, an evilish-angelic smile.
"Well, what would my baby like to hear?" Christian asked his little angel, although he wanted nothing more than to sink into bed and sleep with Mara in their room since he was also tired after a day’s work. But judging by Marian's complete attentiveness, he would be staying up quite a while with his darling little angel.
"Anything, I like your voice, Daddy, so anything will be fine for me." Marian said, and looked expectantly to her father. Mara was always so much better with these bedtime stories. In Christian’s stories, there was always an ogre and a troll or some sort of hideous beasts who ended up together and lived happily ever after. Marian, being a little girl, disliked beasts. But what could he do? He didn't have Mara’s knack with fairies and princes and princesses and castles and kingdoms and happily ever afters.
"Let's see... there once was a... beast and... an ogroll," Christian began his story.
"What's an ogroll, Daddy?" Asked Marian
"It's the son of an ogre and a troll."
"I hate ogres and trolls, Daddy. Or any other beast. Start again."
"Are you sure, Baby? It's a really fun and nice story."
"No, Daddy! I hate beasts! Nooooo." Marian began to cry and scream.
"Shhhh, calm down, Baby. Daddy’s gonna tell you another story... Once upon a time there once was a... pig. His name was... uhhhm, well, it was... Piggy. Piggy had a friend…
“What’s the name of Piggy’s friend, Daddy?
"I’m not yet done, Sweetie. Let me finish my story. So, Piggy’s friend is a princess, her name is Princess Kathrina. They were best friends, nothing could ever separate the two, not even the King. And so they lived happily ever after. The end!" Christian finished his story.
"Daddy, Your story is ugly. I don’t like it!” Screamed little Marian.
Christian sighed, trying to scan his mind if he could remember any good bedtime story for his daughter. Surely he should have some creative ideas- he wasn’t only a basketball star, but he was also a photographer and concept designer for heaven’s sake! "Great! Marian, how would you like to hear the story of how Mommy and Daddy first met?" Christian suggested to his daughter. “This would be a fun story to tell.” Christian said to himself and Marian nodded enthusiastically.
"Alright then. Well, you see, Daddy was irresistible. Every girl loved him. It was something he had to live with all the time. Daddy was really handsome, until now, do you agree?” Marian gave her father a big nod and a wide smile. “Good. You’re really my daughter. Anyways, your Mommy and I first met inside a mall way back then. Mommy Mara got mad at me because Daddy was trying to steal a bracelet from the mall.”
“Daddy was bad?” Asked the curious little girl.
“No, Sweetie. Daddy isn’t bad. He was just influenced by his friends. It was a dare.” Said Christian.
“How did Mommy fell in love with you?” Marian asked.
“Mommy and Daddy went to the same school, you see. At first, Mommy and Daddy hated each other so much, Mommy found Daddy very cocky and Daddy found Mommy annoying since she was very smart at all times and Mommy just wouldn’t fall for Daddy’s charms and good looks. But as time passed by, Mommy and Daddy learned to like each other and sooner, they found out that they are already in love with each other.”
"Was there an evil dragon?" Marian interrupted her Daddy’s story while hanging on to every word Christian was saying. She hugged MarTian tightly, almost as if this evil dragon would come out of the story and hurt Little Marian.
"Oh, no, Sweetie. There wasn’t any dragon in Mommy and Daddy’s story. But there was, Mommy’s evil foster daddy. He was mean, he wanted to kill Mommy and everyone that Mommy loved. But I swooped right in and saved her, just like the knight in shining armor in those fairytales that Mommy Mara reads for you. And so, the evil foster daddy learned his lesson and he was banished to a far, far away land."
"What was Mommy wearing? Was she in a princess’ dress?" Marian, who was now sleepy asked her Daddy.
"Hmmm, let’s see. Mommy was wearing a very pretty dress, it was in pink, your favorite color. Mommy looked so beautiful in her dress that Daddy can’t help but fall more in love with Mommy.."
Christian looked over Marian, whose eyes were fluttering asleep already. He continued to tell his story, deciding he wasn't such a bad storyteller after all. "But you see, Sweetie, even before we defeated the evil foster Dad, your Mommy and I went through a lot of things, but we conquered it all, we stood against all odds together." He smoothed Marian’s hair and patted down her Barbie blanket.
"You're just like your Mommy, Marian. That’s exactly why I am not worrying about you, Sweetheart. You're brave and always going to do the right thing. Mommy and I are going to hold your hand when you first learn to ride that Barbie bicycle you wanted so bad and we're going to hold your hand when you first go to school. I can’t imagine how much fun you'll have, Sweetie. You're like your Mommy Mara, I’m quite sure you'll easily make plenty new friends. And I’m sure Mommy will be as excited as you will be for your first day of school. Why, she's already stressing about what she will be preparing for your snack at school.
Marian’s eyes were fully closed now. Christian smiled upon the sight of his sweet, little angel sleeping peacefully.
"And when you have your first crush, Mommy and Daddy will be with you. When you have your first heartbreak, Daddy will be there to break the bones of whomever that boy who broke your precious little heart. Trust me, Baby Marian- he's going to wish he'd never met you and laid a finger on you, Marian. Daddy will be older by then, but no one should estimate the power of my love for you and your Mommy Mara. And when you leave us for college, we won't be holding hands anymore but we'll be there, Baby. We'll be there. And we'll watch you marry and leave us, we'll watch you start your own family with your husband, but we'll be there. We’ll always be there, watching you weave your own fairytale."
Christian kissed his daughters tiny forehead.
"Our journey there won't be smooth, Baby. We'll have so many arguments, you’ll get into so much trouble and we'll all grow up, mature, and change. Life will never be perfect, Sweetie. Who knows what will happen? I know you’re too young to understand what Daddy is telling you right now. But you and I and Mommy, we'll be alright. We'll be just fine. I promise you that, Marian."
He turned on her nightlight before looking at his precious little gem one last time and walking himself to the master’s bedroom. He gently opened the door and got on the bed and into the blankets, but Mara had woken up by now, her eyes half closed though.
"Christian? Oh my goodness, I forgot to tell Marian her bedtime story," Mara said drowsily, groggily rubbing her eyes and trying to get up.
"Don't worry, she’s asleep now. I already told her one. I told her the best fairytale I know. The story wherein I met you."
"You did?" Mara said almost disbelievingly, but she mumbled it as she was still very sleepy. Christian took his wife and folded her into his arms, wondering at how they fit like jigsaw puzzle pieces together. He could feel Mara smiling against his chest and she fitted herself closer with Christian. His heart beat faster and slower, just as it always did whenever he was with his beautiful and loving wife, Mara Torralba.
As he was about to turn off the light, Mara moved and said, “Goodnight, Hubby. I love you.” Then kissed him lightly on the lips. Christian, in reply said, “I love you too, Wifey. Let’s go to sleep now.”
That night, Christian fell asleep to the soft sound of his lovely wife's breathing and the tale of the evil foster daddy and the two lovers who conquered it all.
Kathryn & Albie's "Kiss Scene"
“A Kkk-kk-KISS??!!,” Kathryn was stuttered by the explanation of the director. She was in a meeting which is usually held before the shoot of a particular scene that is added in the plot. And there she was, after rushing from an interview by Boy Abunda on the Buzz to this meeting with several Mara Clara crew and co-actors. She looked kind of surprised as her eyes went slightly bigger and rounder than her normal eyes while the remaining people in the room just looked back at her, waiting for her response. “I have to do a kissing scene?,” she asked while looking at the director, Emil Cruz, who nodded his head as he looked at her. “With Albie?,” she asked again hesitantly. And once again, she just received another nod from him.
“What’s with the reaction, Kath?,” Albie asked while he sat in a very relaxing way, as if he wasn’t pressured for their kissing scene at all.
Kathryn looked at him, slightly annoyed by his very relaxed gesture, as if he took this lightly.
“It’s not like you haven’t done it before,” Albie stated lightly, yet he only received a perilous glare from Kathryn. “What?,” he asked innocently as he looked at her slightly blushing face. He began to understand as he faked a surprised face to tease her. “Oh my, Don’t tell me you haven’t had your first kiss yet?”
“Shut up, Albie! You’re teasing me again,” Kathryn scolded him as he smirked and winked playfully at her, just like the way he does it as Christian Torralba.
“Okay, stop now, you two! You’re fighting again,” Dimples told them in a motherly way, yet she and the rest of cast and the crew couldn’t hide their smile on Kathryn’s reactions and Albie’s response on Kathryn’s reactions. “Let’s take a look at the script until the end first,” she suggested as the rest of the cast agreed.
Kathryn drank some water while relaxing on one of the benches in the set as she was already done with her part earlier than expected. They were now taping Julia’s part with Diego. She decided to watch as she cooled down before going home. She hadn’t been scheduled for anything today besides shooting her part in Mara Clara. Her eyes caught the image of Albie who just arrived at the location. She ignored him as she knew he would come even though he had no part to be shot that day. As she looked at him, she was reminded that tomorrow was the day she would shoot the kiss scene with him. She hadn’t had her first kiss on the lips, what Albie said the other day was true. And she was upset it had to be him. Other girls perhaps would be squealing to be kissed by him, but she didn’t. She found it awkward since she didn’t even know how to kiss.
“Hey, Kath. Stop day dreaming,” Albie shoved her as she didn’t realize she has been zoning out for quite some time.
Embarrassed to be caught like that by him, she replied back, “I didn’t.”
He just looked at her as he had the ‘oh-sure-you-do’ look on his face. He wanted to ask about tomorrow, but he didn’t know how to begin. Actually, he wasn’t nervous to have a kiss scene, but he was orried about Kath. Being her first kiss somehow worsened it. And he knew a girl like her wouldn’t ask or talk about it first, though he knew very well she was dead nervous.
“Kathryn,” he called her as she looked at him. “Don’t be mad or freak out on what I’m going to say, but I do think we need to talk about tomorrow”, he said in a serious manner. He could know he thought about her right when he could see her cheeks redden a bit. He smiled as he said, “See? I can’t do that if you behave like this.”
“Shut up, Albie! Stop it!” she said as she slapped his arm.
He chuckled as he grabbed his bag, stood up then looked at her and offered his hand. He waited for her to stand up, yet she only watched him.
“What?,” she asked him.
“Let’s have a rehearsal,” he stated innocently.
Kathryn was caught off guard by Albie’s words, “Whaaaaat?!,” she screamed.
He knew she would think of it as a bad idea, yet he only wanted her to be familiar with the scene; not becoming familiar in kissing. He was still a gentleman, after all. He wouldn’t take advantage of Kathryn. He grabbed her wrist as he dragged her to his home, while Kathryn asked him so many things as she was already panicking.
When they reached Albie’s house, no one was home except his housemaids who were busy cleaning the house and his brother, Adam who is inside his room, doing his homework.
“Albie, I’m done!,” she called him as she was done reading and memorizing her part. Albie was in the kitchen as he made some dessert for both of them.
“Took you long enough,” he said as he brought her some chocolate pudding.
“I just want to memorize my lines perfectly.” she said back to him.
He smirked as he sat with her on the living room of his house. “First of all, if you wanted some perfection, you should have memorized it a night before”, he stated calmly.
“I would have done that today since the REAL shoot was scheduled tomorrow,” she retorted.
He smiled lightly on her reply as he neared her and when he was close enough to her face, he said, “Second, I bet it wouldn’t be perfect enough since we wouldn’t do the kiss now.”
Kathryn leaned back as she didn’t know what to do upon realizing Albie was only one centimeter away from her face. Seeing this, Albie gave a heartfelt and loud laugh a little before he read the setting on the script once again.
“Okay, should we start now?,” he asked as he smiled looking at her. His gestures said that he was ready to rehearse. So, no more teases for her.
“Sure,” she replied as she smiled at him.
“Let’s start from the scene in the basketball court,” he stated as he stood up straight.
Following him to stand up, she smirked at him as she said, “You’re still having Christian as the third person, huh? Are you sure you’re ready for this?”
He looked at her as his gesture got calmer somehow all of the sudden. He smirked and lowered his voice and said, “Mara, ready?” After saying that, he gave his hand for her to take.
She looked at him, annoyed, as she thought that he was already transformed into the guy many girls squealed at.
Seeing her just standing there annoyed, he gave the Christian Torralba smile that many girls go gaga about and said, “Mara?”
She became more annoyed as she stomped her feet to him as she said, “Okay, fine! I understand! No need to act as Christian that way!” He just laughed at the annoyed Kathryn.
She stood away from him, giving space between them as she started to get into her role. She thought Albie had already been in the mood also.
He looked at her calmly before he looked down and took a breath slightly. “I have good news and bad news. Which do you want to hear first?” She gave a look of hesitation as he looked at her, smiling a little. He looked down again as he said, “Ah, I know Mara’s style”. He looked up and meet her eyes as he asked, “The bad one first?”
She nodded, giving a gesture that he was right and she looked at him like she was waiting for him to say something. He looked at her as he said again, “The bad news is that because of my injury, I might not be able to play in the National Finals.”
This time, she looked a bit panicky at what he was saying and said with such confident she only had in him, “That won’t happen. You will be healed, I trust you”. Then, she looked confused as she asked, “But what exactly is the good news?”
He looked at her seriously as he said, “The good news is that I’m already determined to heal my injury for the team. I know I’ll have to go through a series of therapy, but that’s fine, it’s a part of the process. I have to stop being selfish. Mara, because of you, I learned a lot of things, I became a better person.”. He smiled at the end of the sentence.
She smiled back at him, looking relieved that he finally learned something from her. “Christian…”
He smiled as he gave passed the ball to her. “Mara, do you want to try it once?”
She took it as she stood next to him and made a shot to the basketball ring. Then she asked, “Christian, my wanting about hearing the bad news first, how did you know that?”
He smiled a little before answering her question, “Because a girl like you wants a happy ending.”
Kathryn smiled widely at him as she acted she slipped and let him catch her, his arms were now around her waist. She was anxious at his touch and it showed through her expression.
Albie knew this as he chuckled in Christian’s style as he said, “Mara, thank you for coming into my life, for teaching me things, for teaching me my emotions...”
Being a professional, she composed herself quickly as she smiled at him, “No, Christian, I should thank you for always being there for me…”
With that, he closed the gap between them slowly. She closed her eyes when she felt his face getting closer. She could feel his breath on her face as she waited.
“Seems like you got into the mood perfectly,” Albie whispered into her ear. She could feel his smirk through the way he said those words that were not in the script.
She opened her eyes quickly and tried to stand up as he helped her. She looked away from him as she knows she was already blushing. She did wait for him to kiss her, for real. She guessed she was so into the mood that she forgot.
“I guess it was good that you didn’t get nervous, Kath,” he said as he looked at her smiling genuinely.
She stood still there as he got confused, “What is it?”
She looked at him a bit hesitant as she voiced her opinion, “I don’t know if I could act like that tomorrow. I knew that we didn’t have to kiss. That made me relief.”
He chuckled, “Why are you that nervous about a little kiss?”
She glared at him, “It’ll be my first kiss on the lips!”
“And?,” he asked back.
“I don’t know what to do,” she said as she pouted. She still didn’t believe it would have to be him she would kiss for the first time in her whole life.
He chuckled at her answer. He then said calmly as he read the script, “Yeah, I know, it is said to be more that just pressing lips to each other, though it’s a quick one”. He looked back at her and smiled soothingly, “Don’t worry. I won’t take advantage of you tomorrow.”
She looked at him, still couldn’t get calm. She knew he wouldn’t do such thing, yet she still hadn’t got the feeling if the situation was changed into she knew she had to kiss. She could act that perfect because she knew she didn’t have to. Yet, she had to kiss tomorrow.
“Don’t take this wrongly, we can rehearse that part if you want to,” Albie said as if he could read her mind. She looked at him as she looked hesitant. He said again as he smiled, “But if you’re hesitant, then-“
“Okay,” she cut him in the middle of his words.
He found her really cute, but he wouldn’t tease her again since he knew this must be not easy for her. Being the gentlemen and professional that he was, he led the nervous Kathryn to be back into the scene and helped her get back in the mood to rehearse.
He smiled as he gave passed the ball to her. “Mara, do you want to try it once?”
She took it as she stood next to him and made a shot to the basketball ring. Then she asked, “Christian, my wanting about hearing the bad news first, how did you know that?”
He smiled a little before answering her question, “Because a girl like you wants a happy ending.”
Kathryn smiled widely at him as she acted she slipped and let him catch her, his arms were now around her waist. She was anxious at his touch and it showed through her expression.
Albie knew this as he chuckled in Christian’s style as he said, “Mara, thank you for coming into my life, for teaching me things, for teaching me my emotions...”
Being a professional, she composed herself quickly as she smiled at him, “No, Christian, I should thank you for always being there for me…”
He smiled at her once again before leaning down to her. He could see her pressing her lips hardly as she closed her eyes. He smiled as he knew she couldn’t act like this tomorrow or the director would shout “cut” at them. Yet, he let it this time. It was only a rehearsal, anyways. She could be relaxed tomorrow.
“Relax,” he whispered as she opened her eyes a bit. He kissed her at the corner of her lips as she felt her muscles relaxed a little. He kissed her lips fully right after.
He inched away from her face as he saw her opening her eyes. He looked into them as she did the same. No words were exchanged, but he leaned once again to kiss her. Kathryn closed her eyes once again as she felt his lips once again. They were drowned in their little world.
“No kiss scene???!!!”
Both Kathryn and Albie asked the director after he said they won’t be shooting the kiss scene as they considered Kathryn’s very young age and that she was nervous the last time they talked about it. Both of them didn’t protest since Kathryn didn’t want to reveal she had a rehearsal with Albie which led them kissing for real. As for Albie, he didn’t want to embarrass Kathryn, so he kept quiet about what happened the previous night.
He smiled as he gave passed the ball to her. “Mara, do you want to try it once?”
She took it as she stood next to him and made a shot to the basketball ring. Then she asked, “Christian, my wanting about hearing the bad news first, how did you know that?”
He smiled a little before answering her question, “Because a girl like you wants a happy ending.”
Kathryn smiled widely at him as she acted she slipped and let him catch her, his arms were now around her waist. She was anxious at his touch and it showed through her expression.
Albie knew this as he chuckled in Christian’s style as he said, “Mara, thank you for coming into my lif, for teaching me things, for teaching me my emotions...”
Being a professional, she composed herself quickly as she smiled at him, “No, Christian, I should thank you for always being there for me…”
He smiled before leaning down to her. She closed her eyes as she could feel his breath on her cheek. They were so close until Christian’s teammates came and she quickly opened her eyes, looked shyly at him and his teammates. She smiled nervously as she got out from his arms and Christian just smiled looking at her back.
“Cut!!,” the director shouted as the scene was nicely shot.
Both Kathryn and Albie were back to their own selves again, smiling as they said ‘thank you’ to the crews.
They gathered their belongings, Albie finished first and got ready to leave the location. Kathryn was still talking to her mom when he walked to her. She noticed him and looked at him as she smiled.
He smiled back and whispered to her ear, “Let’s have a date tomorrow, I’ll pick you up at 6, I’m not taking a “no” for an answer.”
She blushed as Albie smiled at her once more before leaving the location. She looked at him as he left, smiling to herself, she shrugged her thoughts off and left the set with her mom.
It could be a start, though.
Best Friends Turned Lovers Part 1
"Mara!” He shouted as he continued to ring the doorbell of the del Valle’s mansion. Mara sleepily stood up from her bed and took the robe lying beside her bed to cover herself as she gazed at the clock of her room that reads 2:00am.
She hurried herself to open the door only to be taken aback by a drunken Christian Torralba, her best friend since childhood, on her doorstep.
“Christian! What in the world is wrong with you?” She asked as she wraps his one arm around her, so she could guide him to the sofa. She could hear his soft sobs here and there as he continue to drink from the bottle of liquor he was holding on his right hand. Mara, being the good best friend, gently laid him on the sofa and took the bottle away from him.
She went to the bathroom and took a basin and filled it with lukewarm water, she then grabbed a towel and return to the drunken Christian who’s now wasted on her sofa.
“Ugggh! This guy!” She said as she dips the towel to the warm water and remove the excess water it off and before she started to wipe his handsome face with it.
It’s been more than 10 years since she met this drunk young lad who is sleeping helplessly beside her, they we’re just five or six years old when they first met, since that fateful day, they become inseparable, despite being her best friend, she secretly wishes every night that one day, Christian would actually see her more than just his best friend, that they could actually be lovers. She’s been with him through thick and thin, she knows his weakness and so are his strengths, she watched him fall in love with a girl who she knows all too well that doesn’t deserve Christian’s love.
Christian felt the warmth of the towel on his face and the lightness of a delicate hand that he has grown familiar of, he slowly opened his eyes and saw Mara taking care of him, like always, whether his heart gets broken or whether it’s about his mom or some other family issues, Mara will be always there to put the pieces of his heart together again.
“Mara…” He muttered under his breath before he falls into a deep sleep. Mara just sighed upon the image of her best friend being helplessly drunk, “Why has he been drinking too much lately? He must be having another problem,” Mara thought to herself, but realized she could figure it out the next day, when he is no longer drunk.
She studied the face of the sleeping Christian, the face of the only person she ever loved, the face of her best friend, yup, just her best friend.
“Why can’t you see me? Why can’t you love me?” She said as she continued to damp on the warm towel around his body, she carefully unbuttoned his shirt revealing his masculine chest and his delicious abs.
“Stop it, Mara! He is your best friend!” She mentally scolded herself. After a while sleep catches up to her and before she realizes it, she has fallen as sleep beside him, her head resting on his masculine and strong chest.
Christian was awaken with the sunlight from the mansion’s enormous window, blinding his eyes as he felt weight on his chest and found his best friend sleeping peacefully on it. A smile crept on his face as he traced her face trailing it using his point finger, from her forehead down to her nose and then to those delicious-looking lips that he always wished he could kiss.
“I love you so much and I wish you knew” He said tenderly and softly not wanting to wake her up. If only he could, he would like to stay in their position forever. He has been loving her secretly for many years now and as much as he wanted her, he just can’t take the risk of making a mistake and lose her forever. She’s too special for him to lose, and the idea of losing her scared the hell out of him, he is willing to do anything and everything just to have Mara by his side at all times even if that means they could be nothing more but best friends.
He comes from a broken family, he’s afraid he’d end up being someone just like his dad. He’s afraid he won’t be able to meet the expectations of the world about love. He is afraid of love. “I hope I could be like you, Mara. You’re strong-willed, open-minded, determined and uncompromising. I hope I could tell you I love you and fight for you, for us.”
He cautiously removed the hair that covers Mara’s pretty face. And as he continued to stare at her, she was awaken by his delicate touches on her beautiful face, she opens her eyes leisurely and was met by those dark brown eyes staring exactly at hers.
“I’m really pretty, am I not?’ She joked breaking his thoughts, he gave her his famous cute smile and wink.
“Well, in this angle, you actually are.” He replied. She checked their position and it was indeed embarrassing she could feel herself blushing furiously, she then quickly stood up from their awkward position and fixed herself.
“Christian! Why are you so drunk last night? What the hell’s wrong with you?” She asked with hint of anger in her voice as she tried hard to change the topic.
He stood up and sat relaxingly on the couch, he felt dizzy and his head hurt a little so he placed his hand on his forehead and started to massage his temple.
“That’s what you get for drinking too much!” She said angrily but in a worried voice. She gave him some medicines which he took without any further arguments.
“Now, do you mind telling me what happened last night? Why were you so drunk?” She said in her calm and worried voice.
“I saw my Dad with his new family, it could’ve been me, mom and dad eating happily in that restaurant, what’s worse is Mom was with me when I saw them. I saw the pain in my Mom’s eyes.” He explained, his face was straight and showed no expression of anger or sadness, and to that, Mara knows he was once again wearing his mask.
“Christian, we’ve been best friends for so long and you know you could never hide your true feeling from me” She said as he pulled him into a bear hug. He smiled knowing that Mara would always be beside him no matter what happens.
“Hey, Christian, you want to scream it all out? Let’s go to our secret place! It’s been some time since we last went there.” She asked and he just nodded.
After they fixed themselves up and she has finished a picnic basket full of delicious food for the two of them, Mara asked permission from her parents that she will be out today. Mara and Christian left the mansion and went to their secret place.
The drive to their secret haven was silent but a comforting and reassuring one. Once in a while they’d steal glances of each other and when they caught each other’s eyes, they’d give a healthy giggle.
“We’re here” He said as he pulled over the car near their wish tree. He opened the door first and went by the passenger seat so he could open her door for her.
“You know what? This place may have changed in time but the memories we share here when we were a lot younger will never change.” Christian said out of the blue. “It’s just so amazing how every time I come here with you, everything seems to be at peace. Everything seems to be so soothing and calm. And it never fails to amaze me how much of our memories this place holds and it will be holding more.” Mara said in response to Christian’s statement.
They laid the picnic blanket near their wish tree. Christian sat down first and leaned his back on the tree behind him, he reached out his hand to assist her whom she willing took, and she took a sit in between his legs and leaned her back on his chest. In another person’s point of view they’d look like lovers rather than best friends.
“Mara…” He said softly which made her looked at him.
“Yes?” She said in her sweet, childish voice.
“Thank you…” He replied
“For what?” She asked
“For never leaving me, for being my best friend…” He said “and for being the love of my life..” Christian added on his mind. She gave him her knowing and reassuring smile, wishing that one day, she could be more than just a best friend to him.
“You should be thankful! What would happen to you if I was never by your side?” She teased.
“I’ll be a broken man, I won’t be who I am today.” He thought to himself. And said, “Still Christian Torralba, I guess?” in reply to her question, earning him a playful strike on the chest from her.
“Hey, what was that for? It hurts, you know?”
“I just want to hit you, maybe you’d come to sense.” She thought to herself, but replied, “I just feel like hitting you.” as she stuck her tongue out and prepared to run.
“So, you just want to hurt me, huh?” He said, he was about to grab her when she stood up and started to running happily away from him.
“Mara, you come back here now!” He yelled as he chased her. In no time, he caught her, he grabbed her wrist and pulled her closer to him causing both of them to lose their balance and fall. She was on top of him, their eyes locked to one another, and for that moment they felt the world freeze before them.
Their longing stares where like the opposite ends of a magnet, pulling them closer to one another. With no hesitation he captured her lips which she returned gladly, he cupped her face so he could deepen their kiss.
When they broke the kiss, she rested her forehead on his, as they continued to look at each other longingly and lovingly.
“No, Christian, this is wrong, very wrong.” she said as she stood up and prepared to leave, but he was quick enough to stop her as he grabbed her wrist once again.
This is it, it’s now or never, he got to let her know, kissing her earlier broke all his defenses, he’s been in love with her for quite a long time now and she has to know.
“Mara, wait…” He said as he stood up so they could be on the same level.
“Let’s just forget that this ever happened.“ She said as she removed her hands from his strong grip and ran quickly.
He felt like he was statued on the ground, he couldn’t move his body nor speak, This is not what he wanted, he doesn’t want to forget their first kiss.
He wants her. More than a best friend. He wants her in his life. Forever.
Part 2
“Hey, Bro! What’s wrong with you? You’re not looking well to me…” Migs asked him as he saw an expressionless Christian.
“I messed up!” Christian replied.
“Messed up? What did you do this time, Bro?” He asked as he sat beside Christian in one of the benches in the varsity locker room of AAA.
“Yes, I messed up. I kissed my best friend.”
“What? When did we kiss?” Migs joked as he patted Christian’s shoulder brotherly.
“Not you, stupid! It’s Mara. I kissed Mara.” He replied as he grabbed a ball and threw it to Migs.
“If I haven’t known you guys for some time now, I may assume that the kiss happened accidentally, but since I’ve known you two for a very long time now, I would say that the kiss was intentional. You both wanted it, you both liked it.” He replied in a stern tone.
“Intentional? Wanted and liked? C’mon, Bro! She even told me to forget that it ever happened.” He asked confusingly.
“Uggggh! Christian! I thought both of you were smart? Everyone knows you have feelings for each other. Everyone can see those longing and meaningful stares that you give each other. I don’t know if you’re both just too blind to see it or you’re just too stubborn to admit it to yourselves that you’re actually more than just best friends.”
“Are you telling me that I actually stand a chance with her?” He asked and Migs just nodded in response to his best buddies’ question.
That’s it. He made up his mind. He’s gonna tell Mara that he’s in love with her. He won’t hesitate anymore, he’d stop being selfish and start taking the risk. He wants Mara in his life.
He thanked Migs and left to go wherever Mara was.
*************************************************************************************
“Jinjin, Butch, what the hell have I done?“ She said as she sat down in the library while Jinjin and Butch busied themselves making their homework for the next subject.
“Mara, I don’t see any problem with that. So what if you two kissed?” Butch replied as he closed his book, facing his best friend.
“So what? What kind of a question is that, Butch? I’m his best friend, for heaven’s sake!” Mara retorted.
“That’s right. You’re his best friend. It’s just a kiss, it’s not a kiss on the lips, so what’s the big deal?” replied Jinjin.
Mara was silenced.
“Oh no, you guys kissed on the lips?!” Butch and Jinjin asked in unison. “I thought it was just a kiss on the cheek?” Butch followed up.
“Would you keep your voices down? We’re in the library, you know? And people might hear you.” she said.
“Sorry,” they replied.
“I don’t know what to do anymore, Friends. I don’t know how to face him anymore.” She said as she let out a deep sigh.
“Why don’t you just tell him?” Jinjin replied, unknown to them Christian was also in the library, he hid himself behind the shelf near them as he realize that Mara’s with Butch and Jinjin. As much as he didn’t like it he found himself listening to Mara, Jinjin and Butch’s conversation.
“Tell him what, Jinjin?” Mara asked.
*Tell Who? what?” Christian asked himself while listening to their conversation.
“That you’ve always been hopelessly in love with Christian…” She answered with a hint of teasing in her voice
*”Migs is right, Mara loves him.” Christian said to himself.
“And risk our friendship? There’s no way I’m gonna do what you’re telling me.” Mara said.
“But Mara--” Butch was trying to say something when Mara cut him off.
“No, telling him that I’m in love with him will not change anything. Confessing my feelings to him won’t make him my boyfriend and me his girlfriend.“ She said firmly which caused Christian to have the guts to speak and leave his hiding place.
“But we can change that idea of yours.” He said which caught the three friends off guard.
“Christian?!” Mara exclaimed as she almost jumped out from her seat when they heard him speak and saw him approaching them. Silence filled the air, no one even dared to talk.
“Did he hear our conversation?” Mara tried to whisper to Butch who was sitting beside her.
“I do think so, Mara. Now, I guess Jinjin and I will have to leave you and give you some time to talk to each other.” Butch said as he and Jinjin got their books and left.
“Mara…” He spoke her name sweetly.
“Ahh… Christian, I have to get a book for our next subject.” She said and looked down on her books, not wanting to meet his gaze as she stood up and heads to a bookshelf in the library, but Christian held her hands to stop her from going anywhere.
He turned her around so they’d face one another, But Mara decided to keep her gaze on marble floor of the library rather than be lost in his eyes.
“Mara…” He was saying when she cut him off again.
“Christian, do you want to study for our quiz later? I’ll just go and get some books.” She asked as she tries to get away from him but Christian’s grip on her was too strong.
“How about a second kiss instead?” He replied, an evil-ish grin formed on his face and to that Mara lifted her head in shock and looked at him.
Wrong move for Mara, now she was lost in his eyes.
“Christian, didn’t I tell you to just forget what happened?” She said
“How can I forget it when it’s all I could think about? I love you, Mara” He said with all seriousness, which caught Mara totally off guard
“Chhri… Christian?” Mara stammered?
Mara, you’ve always been my best friend. We’ve been together since I can remember. We’ve gone through a lot and we’ll be going through more obstacles. I’m sick of you regarding me only as you’re best friend. It’s not that I don’t want to be your best friend. But now, I’m stepping up, telling you how much I need you in my life. I want to be your boyfriend and you my girlfriend.
“I.. I don’t know what to say” She said in a breaking voice with tears rolling down her eyes.
“But if you’re not yet ready, it’s fine with me. I can wait, even waiting means forever, I’ll wait for you. Just don’t leave me, Mara. You may not talk to me, you can even not look at me or pretend that I don’t exist, just as long as we breathe the same air, as long as I know you’re near, I’ll be happy loving you. Always remember that. But if you really want me to leave you now, just tell me. I’m willing to go.”
“Christian, why would I want the person who accepts me for who and what I am to leave? Why would I want the person who loved me despite my imperfection? Why would I want my best friend to leave? Christian, you know how valuable you are to me, you know how much I value our friendship, just like what you said, we’ve been through a lot and I don’t want to risk it all. I’m not leaving you, Christian. Never.”
“Say that you love me too and you’ll be my girl.” He replied as he pulled her closely to him, leaving their faces inches apart.
“I love you too, Christian.” She said, he smiled and to that he claimed her lips once more, sealing the hope that they’ll be together forever.
Marriage Proposal: Blast from the Past Style
Mara del Valle is now the in demand journalist of her generation while her long time boyfriend, Christian Torralba landed a career on PBA, joggling his time being a noted photographer and managing his own Concept Design Business. Sure they’ve come a long way, but they seem to be missing something.
It was a fine, bright Sunday and when it’s Sunday, it means its Mara and Christian’s free day from work.
Mara woke up to the sound of her phone beeping beside her. It was Christian, her boyfriend of 7 years. “Hello, Babe?” She said after pushing the green button on her phone “Hey, Babe. Good morning. Had a sweet dream?” Christian asked on the other line. “Yes, I did. I was actually dreaming of someone dashingly handsome and cute, but you interrupted my dream.” Mara replied, teasing Christian. “Okay, you should go back to sleep and dream of that guy, I’m hanging the phone now.” Christian retorted disappointedly. “Hahahahahaha!” was all Mara was able to say. “Why are you laughing there?” Christian asked confusingly. “I was a dreaming of you, Silly.” Mara replied. A smile crept on Christian’s face upon hearing those words.
“Anyways, Babe, I’m gonna tell you something, but promise me you won’t be mad at me.” Christian said. “Okay, I promise.” Mara said in response. “I called your office and fixed you a 1-week leave starting tomorrow,” Christian said on the other line, wishing his girlfriend wouldn’t go mad. “You did what?” Mara asked in shock. “You heard me, Babe. I just wanna take a break. I mean, we’ve been working almost right after we graduated from college, it’s been almost 2 years now, and we hadn’t really have a vacation, just the two of us,” Christian explained. “You know, Christian, you’re right. I will have to forgive you this time, but the next time you do something like this, it’s gonna cause you big time, you understand?” Mara said. “Yes, Ma’am!” was all Christian could reply.
“So, Babe, what’s your plan?” asked Mara. Christian replied, “I have everything planned already. All you need to do now is pack your things and I’m going to pick you up at your house at 3pm later. Got that?” “Yes, Sir!” Mara said in response to Christian’s instructions.
Christian picked Mara up earlier than expected. The drive to their destination was silent, but a comforting one until Mara broke the silence. “Where are we going, Babe?” she asked. “You’ll see, when we arrive there. We’re near.”
Christian pulled over the car to a very familiar place and announced, “we’re here.” Mara looked over the place and could only utter “Christian, this place…” but Mara’s statement was cut off when she saw a familiar couple waving at them. “Nanay Barang, Tatay Nanding!” Mara screamed at the top of her lungs upon realizing where she was and who the couple was. She hurriedly went off the car and ran to the couple and gave them a warm and knowing hug.
Nanay Barang and Tatay Nanding has become older but they were still the pretty couple Mara and Christian knew.
“Are you surprised?” Christian asked her girlfriend who was in tears by then. She looked at Christian and simply nodded.
“Look at you, Mara. You’ve grown so beautifully,” said Nanay Barang. “Of course, Nanay Barang! She’s pretty, and she’s my girlfriend.” Christian boasted. “Utoy, you haven’t change at all, have you?” Nanay Barang asked Christian. Christian replied, “Nay, I’m already 24 and you’re still calling me Utoy, anyways, Nay, you didn’t notice my change? I’m way handsome now than I already was when you last saw me.” Everyone gave a heartfelt laugh on Christian’s statement. “Let’s continue the conversation inside the house, let’s go,” Tatay Nanding suggested, which the others agreed to follow.
The four continued their conversation inside the house.
Mara and Christian spent their vacation in Nanay Barang and Tatay Nanding’s place just like the way they did when Mara was still hiding from her foster father, Gary. They cleaned the place, talked like there’s no end, took pictures together, played tag, wander around the town, have picnics every afternoon, and yes, they splashed water on each other but this time, they were in the riverside.
On their last day of their vacation, they went to have picnic near the riverside. There, they were reminiscing all the wonderful moments they’ve been through and there, they imagined all the moments and dreams that they will be weaving together.
“Christian, can I ask you something? I wanted to ask you this before, but I never had the chance to,” Mara said. “Hmmm, are you going to ask me if I want to marry you?” Christian replied. Mara gave a little laugh and said, “No, silly.” “Then was it that my girlfriend has been wanting to ask me for some time now?” Christian asked Mara.
“Christian, do you remember the time when I interviewed you for the article I was writing way back in high school?” Mara asked. “Oh, our first date. Yes, I do remember that.” Christian replied with a grin on his face. “It wasn’t a date. Anyways, when I asked you when you realized that photography was your passion, you told me that there’s this girl that you’ve always been mesmerized by her smile, but lately you were no longer seeing her smile, but you still hope that one day, you’re going to see her smile again, who was she?” Mara said in a serious tone. Christian sat straight, looked at Mara in the eyes and simply said, “I’m looking at that girl right now.” Mara blushed upon hearing Christian’s confession.
“Christian, thank you,” she said. “What for?” asked Christian. “Thank you for being my best friend, for being my boyfriend, and for being my savior. Thank you for never leaving me, thank you for being my strength when I thought that giving up was the only option left. Thank you for loving me.” Mara said with tears rolling down her pretty face. “No, Mara. I should be the one thanking you for coming into my life and changing me into the person I am right now. Thank you for letting me be your best friend, your savior, your strength, your boyfriend.” With that said, Christian enveloped his girlfriend into a warm hug.
There time in Nanay Barang and Tatay Nanding’s haven is up. They had to go back to their real world. Mara and Christian each gave their second parents a hug. “Mara, thank you for visiting us, we’ll miss you. Come back when you have time, okay? For now, we’ll just be watching you on TV. Stay in touch, okay?” Mara just gave her Nanay Barang a nod with tears in her eyes. “And for you, Utoy,” Tatay Nanding added, “Keep those 3-points coming, okay? We’ll watch your every game.” “Yes, Tay Nanding. We promise, we’ll be back when we’re free again. Right, Mara?” said Christian, Mara just gave another knowing nod.
Their drive back to Manila was again a quiet, yet a comforting one. Mara was asleep almost the whole journey since she didn’t get to have enough sleep last night since she spent their last night with Nanay Barang talking almost about everything. Christian just let her sleep, though.
“We’re here,” Christian said, waking up Mara. Mara slowly opened her eyes and was shocked to see that they weren’t in her house, but in the parking lot of their old high school, AAA. What shocked her more is that Christian was in his old high school uniform.
“Christian, what’s up?” Mara asked confusingly. “It’s a surprise. I’ll have to blindfold you though.” Christian said as he blindfolded Mara. He guided her to the exact place where he first proposed to Mara to be her boyfriend. He smiled to himself at the thought of him being rejected at that time.
“You may take off your blindfold now.” Christian said. Mara was in awe upon seeing herself in the exact same place where Christian first proposed to her. And she was more surprised upon seeing her parents, Christian’s mom, her best friends, their old classmates, her co-workers, Christian’s teammates and staff, everybody was wearing their old AAA uniform, Even Nanay Barang and Tatay Nanding were also there, also in AAA uniform. And the place was decorated exactly the same way when Christian first proposed to her to be his girlfriend.
“Christian, what is this?” Mara asked, she was more confused than ever. “I just want to relive a special moment.” Christian said in response to Mara’s confusion.
“Mara del Valle, exactly 8 years, 4 months, 3 days and uhhhhmm, 16 hours and 30 mins. ago, in the exact same place you’re standing on I proposed to you, and you rejected me.” Christian said as he got a red velvet small box from his pocket, knelt down, opened it and showed it to Mara. “And now, exactly 8 years, 4 months, 3 days, 16 hours and roughly 30 mins. later, I’m here again, proposing to you. This time, it’s no longer “Will you be my girlfriend?”. Christian continued, “Mara del Valle, will you be my Mrs. Torralba?”
Mara stood frozen and glued on the floor. She didn’t know what to say, her beautiful face, drenched with tears. The crowd started to cheer. “Uhhhm, Mara, may I know your answer?” Christian asked hesitantly.
“Christian, we’re still young, we’re still reaching the peak of our chosen careers. Christian, you are important to me, you know that. You also know how much I love you and….” Christian cut off Mara’s words as he said, “Are you saying no to me for the second time, Mara?”
“Christian, will you please let me finish? Christian, I love you and yes, I will be your Mrs. Torralba.” With that said, Mara helped Christian stand up. He enveloped his fiancé in a tight embrace and then screamed in happiness as tears of joy flowed from his eyes. Mara cupped her fiancé’s face and gave him a quick, light kiss on the lips.
Everybody clapped and cheered for the soon-to-be-husband-and-wife as they congratulated the couple.
Mara's Pregnancy Part 1
Mara had her day off from work since she was feeling very tired and she’s been getting mild headaches, plus nausea lately. She asked her best friend Butch who is now a highly paid fashion designer to come with her as she wants to give their best friend, Jinjin, who is now one of the country’s top doctors, a visit at the hospital.
Aria was shocked upon seeing her best friends since high school in her clinic. “Oh my God, what brings the two of you here?” she asked as she gave each of them a knowing hug. “We just wanted to see you, Friend. We missed your beauty,” said Butch. Jinjin replied, “Well, guess what? You came just in time. I was about to go home since I’m done with my work today.” “Butch, it seems we’re lucky to catch some time of the country’s most eligible doctor,” Mara said. “Check, Friend! Since we’re all free today, let’s do some shopping and we have a lot of catching up to do.” Butch suggested.
The three went shopping for clothes, shoes and books, just like old times. The three stopped over their favorite restaurant since Mara was already feeling dizzy and she was craving for her favorite pasta. The three talked and talked about everything as they were catching up with each other’s lives. “Friends, I’m really glad that we’re able to have some time doing this again. I missed this.” Butch said. The food came and they continued chatting and reminiscing their high school and college memories.
Mara who was already feeling really bad, and her stomach was hurting a lot, excused herself from the group and headed to the comfort room. She wasn’t that far from her friends yet when she suddenly fell on the floor, she couldn’t get up, and she started to scream in pain. Jinjin and Butch hurriedly approached her and brought her to the hospital where Jinjin was working as a doctor. Butch tried to contact Christian, but failed. It seems Christian was busy practicing since the championship is just around the corner.
Butch patiently waited as Jinjin, with her co-doctors examined Mara.
Jinjin came out later with a stern look on her face. “Butch….” Jinjin said as Butch cut her words off. “Friend, what’s wrong with Mara? Is she fine now?” “Yes, Friend. She’s fine now… and so is her baby… She’ll be coming out of the room as soon as she gets dressed up.” Jinjin replied.
Butch could only utter the word, “Baby?” “Yes, friend. Our best friend’s becoming a mommy soon.” With that said, the stern look on Jinjin’s face was replaced by a wide smile. “She’s two months pregnant, she’s been getting so much pressure and it’s been affecting her and the developing baby inside her. She was under stomach pain today since her womb is now beginning to contract.” Jinjin further explained.
Mara came out with a smile on her face. "I'm going to become a mommy!" she said excitedly, rubbing her belly. "I have to tell Christian right away. Friends, do you think my baby is a girl or a boy? What color do you think he/she will like?" she asked in one breathing. The truth was, as excited as she was to know that there was a life inside her, she was scared. What if she won’t be a good mom? What if she fails to carry the baby? What if Christian isn't ready for a baby yet? So many questions went through her head. She felt very scared, and wanted to share the news with Christian immediately, because she didn't want to handle this on her own. After all, it was THEIR baby, not only hers.
“Slowdown, Friend. You’re talking way too fast. We’ll bring you home.” Butch said. “Yeah, maybe Christian’s home by now.” Jinjin followed up.
As soon as they reached the Torralba mansion, they were greeted by a row of maids. Mara excitedly went up her and Christian’s room.
“Honey! Hon! Guess what? Guess what?” She said excitedly and animatedly, but her smile faded as she saw Christian packing up his things.
“Babe, the team will be going into an intensive training in Cebu. I’ll be gone for a week, I’m leaving tonight. The championship’s just around the corner. I know this trip’s so sudden, but Babe, please understand.” Christian said.
She looked at her husband blankly, trying to process all the information. She placed her hand on her stomach and took a deep breath. Her heart sank as soon as she was able to process everything that Christian said. She saw how Christian strived hard for their basketball championship, while juggling his time with photography, his concept design business and her.
She wanted to tell him the good news, but she also knows how bad he wanted to win the championship. She forced a smile, blinking quickly and avoiding Christian’s gaze. “A week ain’t that bad, right?” Mara said to herself. She kept on telling herself that the good news would be as amazing in a week, she took a deep breath and tried to erase the random, unexplainable pain in her heart.
“Yes, Babe, of course I understand… It’s just for a week, right? I’ll be able to handle myself.” Mara managed to say and she finally gathered the courage to look at her husband’s eyes. She could feel herself tearing apart, but was able to force another smile as she walked into their closet and said, “don’t forget to bring a jacket, it might be cold in the place you’re staying,” she said quickly, trying to stop her tears from falling. She had heard that pregnant women tend to be emotional, she didn’t want to worry Christian, who was already stressed out because of the upcoming championship.
Mara went to the washroom to clean up her face, then went out to help Christian finish packing up his stuffs. They remained quiet the whole time.
“What were you trying to tell me a while ago? You were so excited about it.” Christian asked.
"Oh... um.. I wanted to ask... ask... if... um... you were hungry... because I found this... new place... and it's... good... I heard... and..." she staggered to make up a lie.
Normally, Christian would realize when she's telling a lie, but he was in such a hurry to leave that he didn't even notice.
"But... but... it's nothing important. You should go now, you might miss your flight..." Mara said as she turned around and looked up to prevent her tears from falling. She fiddled around with the vase on the table and held her fists in a ball tightly.
"Okay. I'm going to head off now. Be safe. I'll call you when I get there, okay? Don't get yourself into trouble, but if you do, call me immediately, okay?" Christian said as he headed for the door.
As he got to the door, he realized something was wrong. "Sorry sweetie. It's just this came so suddenly…" he said. He walked over and held her face gently to give her a kiss. He turned away right after and headed downstairs.
When she could hear the car backing out, Mara immediately broke down and sat on her bed, holding her head as she sobbed quietly. She didn't want Jinjin and Butch to hear, but it was too late.
“Mara are you alright?” Jinjin asked. She placed her hand around her, attempting to comfort her best friend. “I’m guessing you didn’t tell him, right?” Butch asked. Mara was a simple-minded person, Jinjin and Butch knew this very well. “You don’t have to do this alone, Mara, and Christian would’ve happily stayed if you only spoke up, “ Butch continued. “It’s okay Mara, Butch and I will file a leave for a week tomorrow for you and baby…” Jinjin assured Mara.
“Thank you,” was all Mara could say to her best friends. “Anything for you, Friend. Just make sure, we’ll be your baby’s Ninang and Ninong.” Jinjin said happily. “Eheemm. NinangS. It’s NinangS.” Butch butts in. “Oh my gosh, Friend. I’m so excited for my inaanak! I’ll buy her a lot of gifts and toys and I’m gonna make her a lot of pretty dresses and when she grows old enough, she will be the model of my creations! And…” but before he could finish, Mara and Jinjin we’re already laughing.
“Friend, what if the baby’s a boy?” Jinjin asked Butch. “No, I’m positive. My vibes are strong, my inaanak will be a girl. They all gave a heartfelt laugh.
They had dinner and as soon as Jinjin left, Mara decided to go to sleep.
But before she went to sleep, she rubbed her stomach softly and said "Baby, are you asleep? Mommy is scared. Are you? Daddy will be back soon, but trust me, he is very happy that you are here. Did you know that you are a blessing to us? I don't know you yet, but I can tell you will be a very sweet child to us." Mara smiled softly and closed her eyes. She imagined all the little clothes and toys she would buy, and slowly fell asleep.
The first two days were completely hell for her. Mara couldn't sleep at night because she missed Christian, and the baby left her uncomfortable. Every morning, she would wake up feeling the need to ****. Butch and Jinjin decided to move in to the Torralba mansion for a week to be able to attend to their best friends needs. Butch and Jinjin performed the same action each day, holding her hair up as she planted her face into the sink.
Butch and Jinjin couldn't stand seeing their best friend like this. Mara didn't let them tell Christian her condition though, so they remained silent every time he called. Mara, too, instructed their maids not to spoil the information to Christian. Mara would always pretend to be occupied with something when he called her, when in fact she had been sitting at home, sick, and unable to even go to work.
Butch and Jinjin were the only ones who knew about Mara’s pains. They were angry that she was so self-less. They wanted her to call Christian and demand him to come home in her time of need, but they knew she was too nice to do that. "Christian Torralba, you lucky *******. You better treasure Mara" they thought to themselves. Mara was like their sister, and it was hard for them to see her suffer.
It was raining very hard outside of the Torralba mansion. "The sky must be crying too" Mara said as she looked out the window. It had been three days since Mara went out for fresh air, she looked outside longingly. She strolled to her balcony to take some fresh air when a gust of wind sent a chill down her spine. The wind pierced through her thin shawl and she sneezed. She thought back to all the times Christian would place his big jacket over her shoulders to project her. It made her miss him even more. It was getting colder, so she decided to go inside her room.
Just to make things even worse, she woke up the next day with a abd cold. Jinjin, being the doctor, examined Mara. It was clear that a cold, a baby, a weak pregnant girl, and a stubborn Mara who refused to take medicine because she didn't want to possibly harm her baby, did not help to cure her cold. Mara was confident that she would get better by the time her husband got back, which meant she had 4 days to get better.
It was the 6th time Christian called Mara’s mobile phone, but she didn’t answere. When he called home, she was always "sleeping", no matter what time of day. He began to worry, so he called Jinjin to see what was happening with Mara.
Jinjin picked up on the first ring, with a stern look on his face.
"Christian, what’s up?” Jinjin asked Christian.
"Do you know where Mara is? I've been trying to call her, but she hasn't been picking up my calls." Christian asked.
Remembering his promise to Mara, Jinjin lied. "Uhhm, maybe she’s in the station, your wife’s a journalist you know, maybe she’s there."
Christian knew that "tone". Christian has grown close to Mara’s best friends and he knew it was Jinjin’s lying tone. "Do you think you can fool me? Seriously. What happened to Mara? You promised me to keep her safe, remember?"
This made Jinjin mad. He felt bad for the her best friend. Jinjin decided that it was time Christian knew the truth. He explained everything that happened during the week, down to all the gory details of Mara crying alone and being a stubborn mommy.
Christian felt like the worst person in the world. He realized that he had taken Mara for granted. He didn't give her a chance to talk the other night. He was the one that promised Mara to be there no matter what, and he had broken his promise. Not only did Mara not get mad, she even held in the pain to herself because she knew how important the championship was to him. He closed his eyes in anger and couldn't help but wonder what he did to deserve such a wonderful girl. He packed up everything and immediately got home. He could still have practice in Manila, right now, he had to get back to his wife and mend her aching heart, to fill the void he had left all of the sudden half a week ago.
"It must have felt like years to her" he thought to himself. "Why am I so stupid?!" He thought angrily, and punched the armrest of the plane, now half an hour away from Manila.
Mara woke up the next morning with the sun rays beaming from the window. She felt like someone was holding her hand. She got up slowly and rubbed her eyes. She didn't have a fever anymore, which meant her cold finally went away. She glanced down to see someone holding her hand while asleep on the other side of the bed. She blinked a couple times to confirm that it was Christian.
"This must be a dream," she thought as she picked up her cell phone. There was a big 3 on the side of her phone, a countdown she had set when Christian left for Cebu. She lied back down to try to ease the pain on her back, but it didn't work. She closed her eyes and let out a loud sigh. The figure who was holding her hand before got up and placed a hand on her forehead, stoking it gently to wake her up.
She opened her eyes, but couldn't believe it. "Chri… Christian?" She asked.
Christian simply smiled and whispered softly, "I'm back, Honey."
He helped her sit up on the bed, letting her lean on the back board of their bed.
"Babe, have I been asleep for that long? I thought you were gone for another 3 days" she said, holding his hand tight.
"I WAS going to stay in Cebu for another 3 days, but someone stupid didn't tell me that I was going to be a daddy soon, and that someone also didn't tell me she was sick, and that someone also scared me to death when Jinjin told me she didn't want to eat medicine, and I missed that someone so much to stay away from her for another minute." Christian said while tapping his wife’s nose lightly.
Mara pouted cutely to Christian. "Babe, that was supposed to be a secret. I wanted to be the one to tell you about our baby."
"Well, you're silly for not telling me. I promised to be there for you no matter what, and you should know that you are number 1 and only one in my heart, no matter what else is going on in my life. I told you to call me if something went wrong, but you didn't! You had me worrying to death! I couldn't come back to see you, and OUR baby" he said, smiling while rubbing her stomach gently.
"But... you were so stressed about the championship that I didn't want to make it worse... and... I wanted to tell you about our baby in person, because I didn't know if you wanted it or not... and I was afraid that... you'd be mad... because I kept it from you" she explained.
"Sweetie, why are you so silly? I am your husband, and daddy to our angel. I am so happy that I have you in my life, and I am even happier because our love has been marked forever, by our baby" he reassured her.
It seems like all the pain that Mara endured for the past week suddenly disappeared as Christian kissed her forehead gently. He then proceeded to kissing her cheeks, and finally her lips. But before their lips met, Mara covered her mouth and got up from the bed immediately. She ran towards the washroom and to the sink, as she thought she was going to ****. Christian rushed to the washroom immediately and stroked her back gently to sooth her puking. He couldn't bear to see her like this.
"Baby, Mommy isn't feeling well. It would be nice if you could stop making her sick. Daddy’s back now, and I can't wait to meet you" he said as he bent down and talked to her stomach.
Mara couldn't help but laugh at the silly Daddy. It was like magic, because for the next week, Mara got her appetite back and she didn't feel like puking in the morning. All baby needed was a little attention from Daddy.
As soon as Mara’s laughter faded, she clung up her hands behind Christian’s neck and Christian crept his hands to Mara’s waist. She said to Christian, “Babe, I love you so much, and I’m the luckiest and most blessed woman alive for having you as my husband.” “Oh really? Why?” Christian asked teasingly. “You really want to know why?” Mara asked him back. “Uh-huh!” Christian confirmed. “Hmmm. Let’s see. Because you are dashingly handsome, because you’ve always been and will always be there for me, because I cannot imagine my life without you, because you love me and because I love you.”
Christian smiled upon hearing what Mara said. “And I am the luckiest man alive, and I know you want to know why.” Christian said as Mara simply nodded. “Because I have you.”
With that said, Christian kissed his wife on her forehead, then to her nose and then to her lips.
Part 2
Mara insisted on returning to the station to work when she felt like she was well enough. Christian, the over protective husband tried to convince her out of it, but failed. It was decided that she would always be accompanied by a bodyguard whenever she goes. After all, Mara’s job as one of the most in demand journalists of the country is tiring and is not easy.
Christian had taken Mara to the doctors the other day and he gazed at the souvenir he got from the doctor, which now sat safely in his wallet. It was an ultrasound of his 4 month old baby. At first, Mara was scared to see the doctor because she didn't want to know anything had gone wrong with her baby, but was relieved when the a gentle "thump thump" coming from the little white ball that they saw on the screen.
Mara's grip tightened on Christian's hand as the excitement of her baby's widened her smile. This wasn't a dream. There was a little life inside her, and it belonged to her... and Christian.
Tears of happiness rolled down her cheeks. Christian wiped them off her face gently and patted her hair before giving her a kiss on the forehead. The nurses inside the room couldn't help but stare in jealously at the happy couple.
Christian took out the picture and stared at it. He had been looking at the precious picture every so often for the past 2 days. He couldn't believe that he was going to be a dad soon, and said to the picture "Hi baby, I'm Daddy Christian" and smiled. As Mara came out from the washroom to their bedroom, Christian held up the picture to show her, flashing a childish smile and giving her a wink, which never failed to have its effect on Mara. Mara laughed and sat down on his lap, leaning her head into his shoulders as Christian rubbed her belly gently.
Christian got up from the recliner he was sitting on and picked up Mara, who was now fast asleep in his arms. She looked so peaceful that Christian couldn't resist but kiss her cheeks gently and whispered "I love you" in her ears, and then moved down to her belly and said "Don't worry baby, I love you too".
Two months later, they attended the grand reunion of their high school batch, which was extravagantly arranged by two of the highest paid and most popular event organizers of the country, Clara Reyes and Desiree Francisco. Clara eventually married Derrick Reyes. Desiree on the other hand is still one of the country’s most eligible bachelorettes.
Mara and Christian entered the main hall where the reunion was held. Christian, being a gentleman, assisted Mara as she met and greeted their old acquaintances and friends.
Mara and Christian sat with Mara’s best friends, Jinjin and Butch, the four used-to-be-mean-girls, Clara, Kaye, Abby and Desiree, and Christian’s old teammates slash best friends, Migs, Mickey and Anthony. Eventually the conflict that existed between all of them way back in high school was replaced by true friendship over time.
Although the eleven of them manages to meet at least once a month despite of their busy schedules to keep updated to each other’s lives, they still talked animatedly that night. When it was Christian’s turn to speak, the proud soon-to-be-Daddy brought out his wallet and waved the picture of Mara’s ultrasound. “Make sure you’ll all be free for my baby’s baptism, okay? We’ll all be getting you as our baby girls’s Ninongs and Ninangs.” With that, Migs proposed a toast for Christian and Mara.
“So, Bro, it’s a girl. Have you thought of her name?” Anthony asked Christian, Christian replied, “Yes, we’re going to name her Marian Chrisiara Torralba.” Christian replied with all pride and continued, “Mara was actually the one who thought of her name.” “But why Marian Chrisiara?” asked Desiree. “Its actually a combination of our names. Mar from Mara, -ian from Christian, and her second name, Chris from Christian and –ara from Mara.” Mara replied.
They continued their catching up that night, they were entertained by Butch and Desiree’s usual bickering, but this time, it was done in a humorous way. As the night grew old, they decided to cancel all their plans on a particular day 5 months from now to have their usual gathering to do some catching up since it’s been found out that they will all be busy in the next 5 months.
Five months later, at their usual meet-up place, Clara walked to Mara, gave her a smile before bending down to Mara’s stomach. “Hello there, Marian! It’s me, Ninang Clara, your prettiest ninang! Have you been good to Mommy lately?”
“No, Baby Marian’s been a bad girl to Mommy.” Mara replied with a pout as she looked up to Christian, “I have to go to the washroom again…”
"Honey, again?" Christian was surprised at how often Mara needed to use the washroom ever now and then. Christian took her to the washroom while Clara and the others prepared some snacks.
Before letting Mara enter, Christian held her against the wall and trapped her there with both his arms. He felt the need to kiss his wife all of a sudden, seeing how their baby, Marian has been troubling her. He planted a kiss on her lips and she shut her eyes tightly while putting her arm around Christian's neck. He then let her into the washroom and told her sweetly "I'll wait for you right here, call me if you need anything, okay?"
***
“Guys, let’s go to the beach today. I feel like wearing my new designer two-piece from Victoria Secret.” Said Kaye.
"It might be too hot for Mara" Jinjin said as she looked at her best friend. It seemed like it was just yesterday when her, Mara and Butch walked hand in hand into the doors of their high school, and now, as if in a blink of an eye, her best friend was going to become a mom. Mara was already on her ninth month, and Jinjin felt even a greater need to protect and be there for her best friend.
"No. it's really nice out today. I want to get some fresh sea breeze" Mara said. She loved it when her best friends put her before themselves. She felt like they really loved her. She thought about all the things that happened between them, and smiled to herself as she replayed moments that they have shared together.
"Okay, it's decided then. We'll meet at the beach house in 3 hours" Abby said, and got up to go home and pack her things with her husband, Mickey. Yes, Abby and Mickey Torres, also developed a relationship over the years and was eventually married 3 months ago. They all agreed and went home to pack their things.
Christian packed a couple of things and began to load it into the trunk of their car. The ride was going to take 2 hours, and they decided that he would get the driver to drive so he could sit at the backseat with Mara, hopefully it'll make the trip more comfortable for her. He saw his wife staggering at the stairs of his front steps and dropped the suitcase immediately to go help her.
"I can do this myself, you don't have to worry about me like I'm made of glass. I won't break that easily" Mara said jokingly. "What if you're not here with me and I need to go somewhere?" she asked, leaning against Christian without thinking. She was becoming more dependent on Christian and began to feel like a burden.
"You're not going anywhere without me, because no matter what, I'm here to protect you. And if I'm not there for you, we have 9 best friends who will, because unlike glass, you're more fragile. I don't want to see you get hurt again. I WANT to protect you, Mara" Christian said sincerely.
"Christian…" Mara said softly as they got to the car. She pulled his face in gently to give him a kiss. "For being such an amazing husband, and daddy, that was your prize"
Christian playfully returned the kiss while he had her in his embrace. Mara giggled and Marian kicked gently, as if to join the fun his parents were having.
"Oh." Mara said gently. "Marian is getting jealous" she said, guiding Christian's hand around her tummy to feel Marian's kick.
Christian smiled and got into the car with Mara. She was leaning on him nicely and dozed off an hour into the ride. Christian kept rubbing her belly and grabbed the blanket from the seat and placed it on her chest. Her soft breathing was like music to his ears, and he put his head on hers and she laid on his chest.
Mara was having fun while watching her husband and best friends play volleyball when she all of a sudden felt pain, soon, a pool of water flowed from her maternity dress, soaking it. She screamed in pain and called for help. Her friends and her husband hurriedly went near her.
"Christian, I think Marian is ready to come out," she said. She was holding onto his hand tightly to ease the pain, but forced out a smile as she saw Christian’s worried and panicked expression.
Being the doctor, Jinjin instructed Christian to bring her to the nearest hospital, which Christian instantly followed.
"Don't worry Mara, we'll go to the hospital now" Christian assured her as he carried her onto their car. It only took 10 minutes to get to the hospital, but the 10 minutes felt like forever to Mara, who had screamed throughout the whole ride. Christian couldn't bear to see his beloved wife in pain like that and began to yell for his driver to drive faster.
Screams could be heard outside in the hallway where Jinjin, Butch, Clara, Desiree, Kaye, Abby, Mickey, Anthony, and Migs waited patiently for their friends to come out. Christian had followed in and was giving her all the support she needed and was there to make her feel safe. After much pushing and breathing, a loud cry bellowed from the bundle of blue in the doctor's arms.
"Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Torralba, your baby girl is healthy and strong." the doctor said as she handed the baby to the nurses for measurement.
Mara looked up at Christian and closed her eyes as Christian kissed her forehead gently. She lay in his embrace while she cried tears of happiness. It was like the pain that she endured suddenly disappeared.
"You did a good job, Honey, and that, over there, is our beautiful daughter" Christian said as he dabbed at her tears with his soft handkerchief.
The nurses handed the baby to Mara, who kissed her baby gently has she attempted to open her eyes. He was kicking and moving his arms, as if to greet her parents. Mara knew that this was Marian Chrisiara for sure, because she was still active like the way she was in her tummy. Christian also gave his son a little kiss and said, "You look pretty, just like your Mommy!" This made Mara smile.
Mara kept on crying as she was so happy for the coming of the proof of their love. Christian enveloped Mara in a hug, being extra careful not to squeeze their newborn baby as he gave his wife a light kiss on the nose and said, “thank you.” Mara just smiled a knowing and reassuring smile to her husband.
***
It was amazing how much they had all changed. From the being complete strangers, to enemies, to friends, to best friends, then lovers. It all seemed so unreal as Mara scanned her memory of all the times they had spent together. There were happy moments, sad moments, angry moments, but all the moments were valuable to her.
She shut the photo album gently and looked at and smiled at the father and daughter who had fallen asleep on the couch while a comedic movie played in the background.
Behind the Scenes Chapter 1
What if our dear Albie Casino and Kathryn Bernardo are already developing mutual feelings for each other without the knowledge of everyone except those in Mara Clara set and of course, the people close to them? Here’s my take on this… Have fun reading!
***
Mara Clara began with two of the lead roles disliking each other. Kathryn found Albie a little bit cocky and no matter what she does, she couldn’t relate to Albie, while Albie found Kathryn way too young for his taste and no matter how he tries to relate with Kath, he just couldn’t see the spark between them.
Time flew without them noticing that they have already grown close and attached to each other. Kath would occasionally bake cookies or cakes for the people in set, making sure she’d spare a special pack for Albie to take home. Albie on the other hand would often take the extra effort to visit Kath on the set even though he wasn’t called for a shoot or his taping is on another location.
“Oh, Albie? Why are you here? Diba wala ka namang taping today?” Kiray asked. Albie was caught off guard and was at loss of words, “Ah… Eh… Akala ko kasi may shoot ako today.” It was the best answer Albie could come up with. The set erupted into laughter upon hearing Albie’s answer. “Wag mo nga kaming gawing *****!” Jhong said in his Gary David tone which only earned more laughter from the cast and crew.
“You think we’d buy your reason? Look at you, wala kang dalang clothes, hindi mo kasama P.A. mo and pormang-porma ka!” their director said. “Oo nga, mukhang manliligaw ka lang eh,” Bobby followed up, earning him some cheers from the crew.
“Kayo naman, hindi na mabiro. I just dropped by to bring you some snacks.” Albie said in an attempt to change the topic. He felt like he was being put on the hot seat.
“Eksaktong dating mo, Tol!” Diego said. “Oo nga, Albie! Gutom na gutom na kami, ano ba yang dala mo?” Dimples asked. “Cupcakes, cookies, cake, doughnuts and ice cream po.” Albie replied.
As soon as Kathryn’s scene was done, Albie approached her, bringing with him some food that he has brought in the set, water and towel. Everyone on set was looking at them, trying not to get caught and trying their best to eavesdrop on Albie and Kath’s exchange of words.
“Bossing, special delivery po.” Albie said as he offered the food, water and towel to Kath. “Uy, salamat ha? Sobrang special naman ng delivery na ‘to. Akalain mo, si Albie Casino pa ang nagdeliver!” Kath said in a teasing tone. “Syempre naman, order ‘yan ng bossing ko eh!” Albie retorted. As if on cue, Kathryn’s face turned red and said, “Nakakahiya naman! Akala ko naman kasi nagbibiro ka lang kanina when you texted and asked kung anong food gusto ko… Ang dami ko tuloyng inorder.”
The people from the set who were eavesdropping could no longer take it as they erupted into “Uyyys!” and “Yieees!”. Direk Emil even managed to scream, “Kinikilig ako! Sobra!” from afar. The two was evidently shocked upon learning that everyone was listening to them as they talked.
A series of teases from the crew and cast followed:
Julia: “Naku, si Albie, kumi-Christian Torralba kay Kathryn!”
Aria: “Order naman pala ni Bossing eh, kaya nagdala ng pagkain!”
Jhong: “Hindi naman pala para sa atin ‘to eh.”
Mylene: “Mukhang mauuna pang magka-love life ‘tong si Albie kesa kay Christian ah!”
Cameraman: “Kathryn, dalas-dalasan mo na ang order! Damay mo na kami!”
Chokoleit: “Hoy, Utoy! Alam ba yan ni Tita Rina?”
Albie and Kathryn just shrugged it off and laughed with the people in the set.
Taping for that day was over and their director has announced it was time for pack up.
“Uuwi ka na ba, Kath?” Albie asked Kath. “Mamaya-maya pa siguro. Hindi ko kasi ma-contact yung driver ko pati si Mommy eh.” Kath replied. “Ah, ganun ba? Edi tara na, ako na maghahatid sa’yo.” Albie offered. “Wag na, nakakahiya naman sa’yo.” Kath tried to decline Albie’s offer, but Albie insisted. “Okay lang! Pareho naman tayong from QC eh. I won’t take no for an answer.” With that said, Albie took Kath’s things and loaded it into his car.
Chapter 2
Kath stood frozen on the ground, unable to reply to Albie. “Kath, tara na! Baka ma-traffic pa tayo.” Albie said. “Okay, teka, iti-text ko pa si Mom na ikaw na ang maghahatid sa’kin!”
Albie winked in response to Kath’s words as he finished loading Kathryn’s stuffs at the back of his car.
“Hoy, Mr. Casino! Kung yang pakidat-kindat mo gumagana kay Mara del Valle, sa akin, hindi! Kaya please.” Kathryn said in her hyperactive voice. “Oh, di nga? If I know, kinikilig ka rin naman pag kinikindatan kita, ayaw mo lang aminin!” Albie teased. “Ewan ko sa’yo! Feeling ka!” Kathryn retorted. “Tara na nga!” Albie opened the passenger’s door for Kath, which Kath took with a smile.
The drive to Kathryn’s house was a quiet yet a comforting one. Albie turned on the radio and it greeted them with the song “Love The Way You Lie” which reminded them of Aria and Albie’s version of it. A smile managed to creep into their faces. Albie would occasionally sing along the song, which earned him some giggles from Kath.
As they arrived Kath’s house, they were greeted by Kathryn’s mom. “Albie, thanks for bringing Kath home, nagkaroon kasi ng konteng conflict sa business kanina eh kaya di ko siya naasikaso.” Kathryn’s mom explained to Albie. “Wala po ‘yun, Tita. Your house is on my way naman po.” Albie managed to reply. “You stay na lang for dinner. Let me cook for you.” Kathryn’s mom said. Just when Albie was about to decline her offer, she followed up, “Masasaktan ako if you turn my offer down, Albie.” Albie was unable to reply, he just gave his notorious smile instead.
Albie and Kath stayed in the living room while waiting for dinner to be served. They were talking about random stuffs and teasing each other when Kathryn’s dad entered the room. He caught Albie pinching Kathryn’s nose, this earned Albie a death glare from Kath’s dad. The two of them were surprised by the arrival of Kathryn’s dad.
The two quickly stood up as Kath gave her Daddy a kiss on the cheek while Albie was glued on the floor, his face all flushed up, not knowing what to do. Albie was able to collect his wits back and managed to greet Kathryn’s dad, “Good afternoon po, Sir.” as he gave him a polite smile.
As if on cue, Kathryn’s mom called them in for dinner. Albie felt relieved upon hearing the voice of Tita Iya, Kathryn’s mom.
Albie, again, felt tensed as he sat beside Kathryn at the dining table. He was surrounded by Kathryn’s family, all were very welcoming and warm towards him, except Kathryn’s dad who has been giving him a death glare every now and then.
“Albie, kumain ka ng mabuti, baka sabihin ni Mareng Rina na di ka namin pinakain ng mabuti dito.” Kathryn’s mom told Albie. Albie smiled and said, “Tita naman, ang sarap kaya ng food na pinrepare mo.” “Talaga? Sige, ipagbabalot kita ng food para madalhan mo na rin parents mo pati si Adam.” Kathryn’s mom said. “Thank you, Tita.” Albie replied.
Albie began to relax and felt comfortable with the Bernardo family. He was again tensed when Kathryn’s dad spoke. “Albie, calm down, Son. Kanina ka pa parang takot na takot sa akin. Don’t worry, I don’t bite.” Albie then began to loosen his nerves and managed to smile upon hearing Kath’s dad speak. “Ilang taon ka na ba, Ijo?” Kathryn’s dad asked. “Seventeen po, Sir.” Albie answered. “Drop the Sir. Tito Gab na lang.” Gabriel insisted. “Yes, Si—Tito Gab.”
Gabriel bombarded Albie with more questions. Questions that made Albie feel awkward. Kath became very embarrassed of her Daddy’s behavior towards Albie.
“Ano ka ba, Hon. Pakainin mo nga muna nang maayos si Albie. Mamaya na yang interrogation mo. Ikaw talaga.” Iya said to his husband who was very eager in throwing questions to Albie. Albie mentally thanked his Tita Iya for that.
After dinner, Albie said, “Tita, Tito, thanks po sa dinner and sa pabaon niyo pon food. Ang sarap po. As much as I want to stay longer and talk with you, I have to go home na po. Late na po kasi.” “Sige Ijo, thank you again for bringing Kath home. Ikumusta mo na lang ako sa Mommy mo.” Iya replied. “Yes, Tita, salamat po ulit dito.” Albie replied, raising the food that Iya packed for him.
“Sige po, Tito and Tita, mauuna na po ako.” Albie said. “Sige, Ijo. Ingat ka sa pagmamaneho.” Gabriel stated. “Thank you po.” Albie managed to reply. Albie also waved at Kath’s siblings then turned to Kath and said, “Sige, Kath. Thanks. Kita na lang tayo sa taping on Thursday.” “Uhhm, sige. Hatid na kita sa labas.” Kathryn replied.
As Kath and Albie reached his car, Kath said, “Uhmmm, Albie? Sorry kanina, huh?” “For what?” Albie asked in pure confusion. “My dad really acted like a child kanina sa loob. I’m sorry for that.” Kath stated. “Ano ka ba? Wala yun. I know how your dad would feel, you’re his youngest child tapos malalaman niyang may naghatid sa’yong lalaki sa bahay niyo, tapos ka-love team mo pa on screen. Of course, he’d feel protective of you.” Albie replied with a smile plastered on his face. Kath smiled on his very understanding statement. She never knew Albie could be very understanding as well. Her train of thoughts were cut off as Albie spoke. “But I have to admit, nakakatakot ang Dad mo, Kath.” With that said, both of them laughed.
“O sige na, sumakay ka na sa car mo bago ka pa i-toast ng Daddy ko dito.” Kath said. They both laughed as Albie made his way to his car. “Sige, Kath! Text and call na lang, if feel mo akong ka-text and kausap.” Albie said. “Sira! Sige na, ingat sa pagda-drive! Text me when you reach home, okay?” Kath replied. “Yes, Bossing!” Albie said as he went inside his car.
Just when Kath turned her back around to go inside the gate of their house, Albie went off his car, went near Kath and quickly stole a kiss on Kath’s cheek.
Chapter 3
Kath stood frozen, unable to process what Albie just did. After some time, she was able to gather back her wits and said, “Wha-- What was that for?” “I’m sorry. I just wanted to thank you. Are you mad?” Albie smiled cutely to Kath. Kath, in reply, said, “No, I’m not. Sige na, Albie. Baka ma-traffic ka sa daan.”
Unknown to Albie and Kath, Kathryn’s Daddy, Gabriel was looking at them at the window.
Albie went into his car with a silly smile plastered on his face. As he drove home, he kept on thinking of Kathryn and he shuddered as the thought of Kath’s dad entered his mind. He felt odd upon realizing that it’s the first time that he’s been spending so much time and effort on a girl who isn’t his girlfriend. He just shrugged off the thought and focused on his driving.
As he entered his home, he was greeted by the image of his mom and younger brother, Adam, bickering, while his dad was sitting comfortably on the couch while watching Mara Clara.
“Oh, Albie! Nakarating ka na pala. Tapos ka na bang mag-dinner?” Rina asked. Albie on the other hand just kept on smiling, as if he didn’t hear his mom. “Hoy, Albie! Kinakausap ka ng Mommy mo. Ano bang nangyayari sa’yong bata ka at kanina ka pa nakangiti?” Benjo asked. Still, no reply from Albie. “Hoy, Kuya!” Adam screamed at his big brother as he playfully hit his arm. Albie snapped back to reality, “Ha? Anong sabi mo?” “Tinatanong ka ni Mommy kung kumain ka na. Kuya, ano ka ba? Para kang timang! Kanina ka pa nakangiti jan!”
“Ah? Oo, Mommy. I had dinner with Kath and her family po. Ito nga po pala, pinagbalot po kayo ni Tita Iya ng food na niluto niya.” Albie said with a smile. “Sige Mom, Dad, Bro, akyat na ako sa room ko. Good night.”
Albie went to his room, leaving his family confused. “Ano daw? Did he just say he had dinner with the Bernardos?” Rina asked. “Ano bang pinakain sa kanya doon at di siya maiwan-iwan ng ngiti niya?” Benjo seconded. “I will have to investigate on this.” With that said, Adam left as he followed his brother to his room.
“Hoy, kanina ka pa nakangiti jan, Bro ah? Baka naman gusto mong i-share sa’kin.” Adam said to Albie in a teasing tone. “Wala, ‘Tol. Masaya lang talaga ako ngayon. Kung tatanungin mo ako kung bakit, pasensya, Bro. I also don’t know why.” Albie replied with all the firmness of his voice. “Pero dahil ba kay Kath? I thought you don’t like girls younger than you?” Adam asked again. “Bro, okay ka lang? Who said anything about me liking Kath? I mean, yeah, I like Kath, but only as a friend.” Albie replied with a shift in his voice. “Mag-ingat ka, Kuya ha? Love is lethal. Baka kainin mo ‘yang pagdi-deny mo ngayon.” Adam said, still teasing his older brother.
Albie was silenced by his brother’s words. “What? Am I actually liking Kath? By means of like, like as in L-I-K-E?” Albie asked himself. Albie’s train of thoughts was cut off when his little brother threw a pillow on him and said, “Ano? Ba’t natahimik ka jan? Is it true? You like Kath?” Albie remained silent for some time.
As he gained back his mind, he changed the topic and said to his brother, “Lumabas ka na nga, Adam! Matutulog na ako. May mall show pa ako bukas.” “Talaga? Sinong kasama?” Adam asked, attempting to prolong the conversation with his big brother. “ “Halos lahat ng cast, why?” Albie returned the question. “Wala lang, bakit? Masama bang magtanong?” Adam defended himself. “Sige na nga, matutulog na ako. Lumipat ka na dun sa kwarto mo?” Albie commanded to Adam. “Sige na, sige na, if I know tatawagan mo pa yung Kathryn mo eh, kaya pinapalabas mo na ako.” Adam again teased. “Loko! Lumabas ka na nga.” Adam finally left Albie’s room.
As soon as Adam left his room, Albie quickly fished his phone from his pocket and text messaged Kath. They exchanged a series of text messages before they hit the sack.
Their text messages came like this:
Albie: Hey, Kath. I’m home now. Thanks for dinner. T’was delicious.
Kath: Glad you’re safe. You’re welcome. Mom said balik ka daw soon.
Albie: Sure will. Hey, you received the info for tom’s mall show?
Kath: Nope, I guess. What mall show?
Albie: May mall show daw tayo tom sa MOA with whole MC teens. 3PM. 11AM call time at ABS Compound.
Kath: I see. Thanks for the info.
Albie: Sabay na tayo tomorrow, I’ll pick you up at 10. If it’s fine with you.
Kath: Sure. Will tell Mom about it now. Thanks for the offer.
Albie: Walang problema! Bossing nga kita, diba?
Kath: Mom said yes. Albie, I’m sleepy na. Sleep ka na rin.
Albie: Yeah, good night. Sleep well, Bossing.
Kath: Likewise, sleep well, Albie. See you tomorrow.
Albie: Yeah, see you tomorrow.
Albie was smiling the whole time they were exchanging text messages. “Hoy, Kuya, iba na ‘yan ha? May pa-bossing-bossing ka pang nalalaman kay Kath! You like her, right?” Adam disturbed his brother. Albie was shocked upon realizing that his younger brother was sitting beside him, reading his text messages the whole time. “Kanina ka pa ba, jan?” Albie asked as he was confused on how his brother entered his room without him knowing. “Oo, kaninang-kanina pa. Ikaw, Kuya, sabi mo walang lihiman? Mukhang nagsi-secret ka na sa’kin ngayon ah?” Adam continued teasing his brother. “Alam mo ikaw, nagiging pakialamero ka na.” Albie said. “At ikaw naman nagiging sinungaling na!” Adam replied.
“Admit it, Bro. You’re slowly being drawn to Kath.” Adam said, still in his hyperactive teasing voice. “C’mon, Bro, alam mo naman yung mga type ko eh, diba?” Albie said in defense of himself. Adam replied, “Oo, alam ko. Yung maganda, mabait, matalino, caring, malambing na palaban, etc. diba?” Albie smiled on how his brother described his “ideal girl.” “At lahat ng yun, na kay Kathryn na.” Adam continued. Albie was again caught off guard by his younger brother’s statement. It seems he could not hide anything from his brother after all. Before he could defend himself again, Adam left his room leaving him dumbfounded.
Albie couldn’t sleep since his brother’s words never left his mind. “I like Kath?” he kept on asking himself. He was able to sleep after hours of thinking about his feelings, but to no avail, he ended up sleeping with his question unanswered.
Chapter 4
Kathryn woke up to the sound of her phone beeping. It was a text message from her on screen partner, now her close friend, Albie Casiño. “Bossing, gising ka na ba? I’ll pick you up at 10 sharp. Don’t forget!” she read aloud. A smile managed to creep on her face as she replied, “Yes, gising na. Will prepare myself and my things na.” As Albie received her reply, he didn’t bother to reply anymore as he was in already in a hurry.
Albie picked Kathryn up just in time. Kathryn’s mom and dad thanked Albie for his offer to pick up Kathryn. It saved them some time since they were very busy with their business for the past weeks and for the coming months and Kathryn’s personal driver was on leave since he was sick. Kath’s Dad spoke and said, “Albie, kung okay lang sana sa’yo, pwedeng pakihatid na rin si Kath mamaya. Pero if busy ka, ako na lang susundo sa kanya.” “No, Tito Gab. It’s fine with me. Ako na lang po maghahatid kay Kath mamaya.”
The drive to the ABS-CBN compound, where the Mara Clara cast will meet was filled with jokes and laughter despite the heavy traffic.
Albie and Kathryn arrived a little late. The teens of Mara Clara along with the other crew and some P.A.s were already waiting for them in the parking lot, since they will all be riding the same coaster going to MOA. As soon as Christian pulled over his car, Kiray saw him went off his car. “Oh, ayan na pala si Albie oh, si Kath na lang pala hinihintay natin.” Kiray said as everyone looked at the direction where Kiray was staring at. They were all confused as Albie went to the opposite door. They were surprised as Kathryn went off Albie’s car. Albie assisted Kath as she went off and helped her bring her unload her stuffs.
“Guys, sorry. Traffic kasi eh.” Albie explained. Everyone, in pure shock was unable to reply. Phytos, who was the first to recover from the shock said, “Guys, please tell me kung tama ba ‘tong nakikita ko? Am I dreaming? Please wake me up.” Everyone erupted into laughter because of Phytos’ comment.
A lot of people came to the MOA concert grounds. The place was becoming very warm as time passed by. Everyone was very busy trying to rehearse the song that they’re gonna sing in a little while. Albie asked a bottle of water from one of the staffs.
Albie approached Kathryn who was trying to memorize her piece. This caught the eyes of most of the Mara Clara teens and staffs who were with them at the back stage. “Bossing, have some water. Para hindi naman matuyo lalamunan ng ka-duet ko mamaya. Sobrang init pa naman.” Albie said. “Salamat, Albie!” Kath said as she got the bottle of water from Albie’s hand.
Their co-teen stars could no longer take it. Most of the girls screamed as they said they were “kinikilig.” “Aba, Albie, baka akala mo si Christian Torralba ka pa rin.” Yong Gopez commented. “Oo nga naman, Albie, nasa mall show tayo ngayon. Hindi taping.” Aria seconded. “At ito namang si Kath, masyado yatang fini-feel ang pagiging Mara.” Julia followed up.
The people who were at the backstage broke into laughter as the teens continued teasing Kathryn and Albie. They just stopped teasing the two when they were signaled that the show was already about to start.
Kath and Albie performed the song Pasulyap-sulyap by Tootsie Guevarra which was mostly sung by Kathryn. The screams by the crowd was unstoppable.
As soon as their performance was over, the hosts of the event came up and joined them on stage. The crowd was requesting for a kiss. “Naku, bawal po.” Kath said. Albie only smiled. The crowd, though disappointed never gave up, they shifted their request to “Nose-to-nose!” The crowd kept on repeating it.
The host said, “Kung hindi pwede and kiss, siguro naman pwede niyong pagbigyan ang libu-libo niyong fans na pumunta pa dito galing sa malalayong lugar ng nose-to-nose.” Kath smiled as she knew she was already as red as a tomato.
The consistent and demand of the crowd made the other Mara Clara teens come out from the backstage and joined the crowd as they screamed, “Nose-to-nose!”
Giving up, Albie raised his hand up on the air and said, “Sige na nga! Papayag ako kung papaya si Kathryn..” The host screamed in pure kilig-ness as she said “Oh, ayan, pumayag na si Albie! Si Kath na lang, bibigay rin yan!” “Nose-to-nose!” the crowd, with the MC teens and hosts continued to cheer.
“Naku, nakaka-pressure naman po.” Kath said, blushing. “Kathryn, ano? Bibiguin mo ba ang linu-libo mong mga fans na nandirito ngayon at yung mga nanonood ngayon sa TV? Kahit 10 seconds lang?” Kathryn, in defeat agreed to the nose-to-nose with Albie.
Albie faced Kath, Kath couldn’t look at Albie’s face. They did their nose-to-nose as the crowd counted 1 to 10 as slowly as possible. But before they reached the 8th count, the host who was standing behind Albie was excitingly jumping around stumbled and accidentally pushed Albie, thus making Kath and Albie’s nose-to-nose into lips-to-lips.
The crowd broke into screams as the host apologized to the two. Albie and Kath immediately broke the kiss. They both stood frozen on the stage, not knowing what to do. They managed to smile and keep calm after they recovered from what just took place.
After the show, their co-teen stars were joking around, screaming, “Nose-to-nose!” at the backstage as they packed their things and prepared to leave. Albie and Kath remained silent, feeling uncomfortable and shy.
Albie, then brought Kathryn to her home safely.
Chapter 5
The drive to Kath’s home was silent and filled with awkwardness. As they reached Kath’s home, they were greeted by Kathryn’s mom at the gate. Albie helped Kath unload her things from the car’s trunk. Kathryn’s mom said her thanks to Albie. Albie left as soon as he said his goodbye and good night to Kath and her mom.
Kath’s mom teased her as soon as Albie left. Figuring out that her family was able to see or heard about what occurred in the mall show, she hurriedly passed through their living room and went upstairs to her room. She tried her best to avoid her Daddy Gab and her siblings, she was sure that she will be placed in the hot seat.
She had her warm bath, changed into her sleeping clothes and hit the bed. She couldn’t stop thinking of what just happened moments ago. She can’t imagine she’d share her first kiss on the lips with her on screen partner, Albie Casino.
Her train of thoughts was disturbed when her Daddy Gab entered her room. She hurriedly calmed herself and pretended to sleep. “Hey, Baby Girl, I know you’re not yet asleep. Daddy just wanna talk with you.” Her dad said. Giving up, Kathryn sat up straight, leaning her back on her daddy’s chest who sat on her bed.
“Do you like that guy?” her dad asked her. She knew who her dad was referring to, but she pretended she didn’t know and asked, “Who, Dad?” “C’mon Kath. You know I can read you like an open book, you know I’m talking about Albie.” Her dad replied.
Sighing, she said, “I don’t know, Dad. But I do like him as a friend. He’s a good friend, you know. He brings food for me, he tries his best to protect me from my haters or at times, from the paparazzi, and I’m comfortable being with him.” “He’s a good prospect for a boyfriend, isn’t he?” Gab asked her daughter, smiling. Kathryn was shocked by her dad’s question, but she managed to pull out a smile.
“Alam mo, Anak, you don’t have to keep your feelings to yourself.” Gab said. “Dad, di ko po kayo maintindihan.” Kath, now confused, asked her Daddy. “Anak, walang kabuluhan kung ako ang mag-iexplain niyan sa’yo. You have to figure it out by yourself.” Gab explained.
“Sige na, Anak. It’s late na, let’s just talk some other time. Di ba may taping ka pa bukas?” Gab said. “But Da---“ Kath tried to reason out, but was cut off by her Daddy Gab, “Sige na, go to sleep now.” With that said, Gab kissed her youngest daughter’s forehead and left her room.
Kathryn tried her best to fall into slumber, but failed miserably. She kept on thinking of what her Dad told her, the kiss and as much as she’d like to deny it, she was thinking of… Albie.
“Oh my God, Albie and I will be taping some scenes tomorrow. I don’t if I could still face him after what happened earlier.” Kathryn said to herself. And as if on cue, her mobile phone beeped and revealed the name of the person she was least expecting to receive a text message from. It was a text message from Albie.
“Hey, are you asleep now? Can we talk about what happened earlier? I know it feels uncomfortable, but it’ll feel more awkward if we don’t talk about it now.” The text read.
Upon realizing that Christian was right, she sent him a reply. Their text conversation came like this:
Kath: Yeah, I’m still awake. That’s a good idea.
Albie: About what happened earlier?
Kath: Yeah?
Albie: Hope it won’t affect our relationship as friends.
Kath: Don’t worry, it won’t. Pero we can’t deny it, it’s awkward.
Albie: I know, I’m really sorry about that.
Kath: It’s nobody’s fault.
Albie: For sure, tayo ang center ng tuksuhan tomorrow sa set.
Kath: Malamang. Tsk. Hey, let’s sleep na. Early pa tayo for tomorrow eh.
Albie: Yeah, right. You have your driver na? Shall I pick you up?
Kath: Wala pa eh, still sick. Sure, if it’s fine with you.
Albie: Sige, will pick you up tomorrow. 7AM.
Kath: K. Gonna sleep now. Sleep well. Walang ilangan tomorrow ha?
Albie: Sure. Pusta tayo, ang maiilang, manlilibre.
Kath: Game. Sige na. Sleepy na talaga ako. Good night, sleep well, Albie!
Albie: Yeah, sleep well, Bossing. See you tomorrow. Don’t forget to pray.
After putting her phone on her bedside table and dimming of the lights, Kathryn was now able to fall into a deep slumber peacefully, with a smile plastered on her pretty face.
Chapter 6
Albie just arrived home, he was greeted by his brother smiling like an idiot on him. He instantly figured out that he has seen or heard of what happened during the mall show. Albie gave his little brother a playful punch on the arm.
“Kuya, kanina pa tawag ng tawag si Candy, ang kulit na! Sa tono niya, parang galit yata.” Adam informed Albie. “Ano na naman ba problema nun? Ang kulit niya lately.” Albie said. “Pag tumawag ulit, sabihin mo, tulog na ako.” Albie continued. Adam just gave his brother a nod.
Albie went up to his room, had a nice warm bath, changed into his sleeping clothes, and hit the bed. He couldn’t sleep so he decided to grab some snacks from his cabinet of foods and turned on his television set when his brother came in.
“I thought tulog ka na.” Adam said. “Di ako makatulog, ‘Tol.” Albie said in a monotonous voice. “Kakatawag lang ulit ni Candy.” Adam again informed his brother. “Oh, tapos? Ano raw?” Albie asked. “Hinahanap ka, eh sabi mo naman sabihin kong tulog ka na, kaya yun nga ginawa ko.” Adam answered. “Alam mo, minsan naiirita na ako sa kanya.” Albie said.
“But you loved her once,” Adam said. “Yeah, I DID. I still do, pero friendship na lang talaga eh. I just value our friendship so much. Pero actually, Bro, wala na talaga akong feelings for her eh. Friends na lang talaga.” Albie said. “Why? Because someone else has your heart na?” Adam asked. “Ang corny mo, Tol!” Albie teased his brother. “Ikaw nga ‘tong corny eh. Pero, seriously, Kuya, total naman we share every single thing with each other, tell me, how do you feel for Kath?
Albie’s expression turned into a serious one as he said, “Alam mo, Tol, ako, hindi ko alam eh. Alam ko lang I like her as a friend. More than friends? That, I do not know. Basta ako, I just enjoy her company so much. Tapos madali siyang kausap eh.” “So, ano na nga? Nadedevelop ka na? Kinakain mo na ba yung mga sinabi mo when you first met her?” Adam asked.
“Kuya, alam mo, ngayon lang talaga kita nakitang mag-effort na maghatid-sundo sa isang babaeng hindi mo naman GF, tapos dinadalhan mo pa ng pagkain sa set, madalas mo pang dalawin kahit di ka naman on call for shooting… At first look ko pa lang kay Kathryn, Kuya, I knew right then and there, that girl is different. Kay Candy nga di ka nag-abalang mag-effort ng ganyan eh…” Adam said his thoughts out.
“Sira ka talagang bata ka…” Albie said. “Eh, ang bata pa nun eh. She just turned 15!” Albie continued. “Weeh? Since when did age began to matter in love? Kayo nga ni Candy eh, tatlong taon siyang nakakatanda sa’yo.” Adam said as he smiled knowing that he had marked his point.
“Ewan ko ba sa’yo, Adam! Ang dami mong alam!” Albie said, sighing in defeat.
“Teka, Bro! May tanong pa ako sa’yo eh.” Adam said. “Ano na naman ba yun? Ang kulit mo ngayon, Adam ha? Ang dami mong tanong.” Albie replied. “How was it?” Adam asked?
“How was what?” Albie asked in confusion. “Duhh. The kiss.” Adam simply replied as Albie threw a pillow on him.
“I bet naiilang na si Kath sa’yo ngayon, after you stole her first kiss on the lips.” Adam teased. “Loko ka talaga! It happened accidentally!” Albie retorted. “But you still can’t deny the fact that you are her first kiss, if I know, bukas, sa taping niyo, iiwasan ka nun!” Adam said.
“I know, ini-expect ko na ‘yan tomorrow!” Albie said in a disappointed tone. “Teka lang, may kukunin lang ako sa labas.” Albie said.
A brilliant idea came into Adam’s mind as soon as he saw his brother’s iPhone lying on the bed.
He keyed in, “Hey, are you asleep now? Can we talk about what happened earlier? I know it feels uncomfortable, but it’ll feel more awkward if we don’t talk about it now.” and sent it to Kathryn who was registered as Mara in Albie’s phonebook.
Albie’s phone beeped as Albie came into his room. He was shocked as he realized that the message came from “Mara”. “Bro, you have a text message from your Mara.” Adam teased as he made emphasis on YOUR Mara. Albie just gave him a smile.
As he opened the message, it read, “Yeah, I’m still awake. That’s a good idea.”
He then looked at his brother and said, “Adam?” “What? I was only trying to help you two out. Don’t blame me for being helpful, Kuya!” Adam said. “Pakialamero ‘kamo.” Albie retorted.
“Sige na nga, lalabas na ako. Replyan mo yan, ha?” Adam no longer waited for his brother’s response, he went out of his brother’s room and headed to his own room.
Albie mentally thanked his little brother.
Albie and his “Mara” were able to resolve the awkwardness between them.
Albie fell asleep with a smile on his face.
Chapter 7
The next day, Albie picked up Kath in her home a little earlier than expected. He was greeted by Kathryn’s parents outside their house as thanking him once again for his service for their daughter.
“Remember our deal? Ang matatalo manlilibre. Okay?” Albie reminded Kath of their deal. “Of course, natatandaan ko yun.”
As they reached Marist School in Marikina, where they’ll be shooting they were welcomed by a Jhong’s grin – the kind of grin when Gary David is planning something evil. “O, Tito Jhong, ayan na naman yung smile na ‘yan! Nakakatakot.” Kathryn said.
“Eh kasi naman, kinikilig ako sa inyo!” Jhong said teasingly. Kath easily understood what her co-star was talking about – the kiss. She managed to give Jhong a smile as she turned very red and immediately left without waiting for Albie who was still unloading their things from his car.
“Kath, ito nang mga gam….” Albie cut off his statement as soon as he realized that Kath was no longer there. He, too, was greeted by Jhong’s ala Gary evil smile. “Wala na, nauna na… Alam mo, bata ka, nahahalata na kita…” Jhong continued to tease as he helped Albie bring some of his and Kath’s stuffs inside.
Albie, beginning to turn pale asked, “Ano po? Di ko po kayo maintindihan.” “Asus naman, nakanakaw ka lang ng halik kahapon eh pumangit na ang mga palusot mo, di na bumibenta sa’kin.” Jhong replied whose smile got even wider.
As soon as Albie entered the room where the cast usually prepare themselves for the shoot, Albie received a serious teasing glare from the MC cast and crew who were in there. He felt awkward since he knew exactly what was going to happen from that instant.
The people in the room began chanting “nose-to-nose”. He cannot believe that even Ms. Gina, who was also there, was also teasing them. He turned to Kath and gave her stuffs to her, Kath who was already as red as a tomato managed to say, “Thanks, Albie.”
This act fueled their already very energetic co-stars to tease them even more. “Albie, ha? Namumuro ka na talaga..” EJ said, acting as if he was Butch. Aria on the other hand, got into her role as Jinjin and said, “Alam mo, Butch, may tawag diyan ang lola ko… Lihim na pagsinta!” And unexpectedly, their other co-teen stars replied in unison, “Check!”
They all gave out a heartfelt laugh.
The first scene to be taken was that of Alvira, Amanthe, Susan, and Gary’s scenes in the principal’s office.
Everyone in the room were now very busy preparing for their scenes. Albie took the chance to approach Kathryn. As Albie approached her, it was evident that Kathryn felt awkward about Albie’s presence. This was easily noticed by Albie, “Aba, naiilang ka yata ah? Mukhang manlilibre ka mamaya!”
“Fine, ilang na kung ilang. Ang awkward lang kasi.” Kathryn stated. Albie, looking around, said, “But why?” “Eh kasi naman, tingnan mo yang mga yan, binabantayan lahat ng kilos natin.” Kath replied. “Wag ka kasing magpadala, nanunukso lang ang mga yan! Tingnan mo, mamaya-maya niyan, makakalimutan rin nila.” Albie assured. “I wish!” retorted Kath.
Kath and Albie soon began to lose the awkwardness and started talking animatedly, while playing a game on Albie’s iPhone.
Contrary to Albie’s assurance, just as Julia noticed the two sitting closely together while playing on Albie’s iPhone, she began to tease the two, “Aba, umaacting lang pala kayong dalawa kanina ha?” Julia’s words heightened the ears of the other people who were on the set. They all began to tease again.
Kiray: “Naku, may nava-vibes na talaga ako sa inyong dalawa ha?”
Vangie: “Itong si Albie, madalas nang kumi-Christian Torralba kay Kath!”
Make-up artist: “At nabalitaan ko pang hated-sundo na raw ni Albie ‘tong si Kath!”
Dimples: “Ay, Albie, gumaganon ang level? Sosyal!”
Jhong: “Kayo naman, gusto rin naman yan ni Kath, diba anak?”
The two just shrugged off the jokes thrown at them. They managed to give them their smiles and fake laughs, though.
Luckily, their director came in and called them for shoot. Both of them mentally thanked their Direk Emil for that. He just took them off the hot seats.
As soon as everyone finished their scenes, their director announced that it was time for pack-up. As soon as Christian finished packing up his things, he signaled Kath that he would be waiting for her at the car park to avoid the teasing from the cast and crew.
While putting their things at the trunk of his car, Albie said as he pinched Kath’s nose playfully, “So, saan tayo? You lost.” “Ikaw bahala, ikaw naman magda-drive eh, wherever you want.” Kath simply replied with a nice, warm smile. They went inside the car and drove away from their location.
Unknown to both Albie and Kath, a group of paparazzi were spying on them behind some other cars. They were listening to Albie and Kath’s conversation. As soon as Albie and Kath left, the group of Paparazzis followed them.
Chapter 8
“Albie, saan ba tayo pupunta nang makapagpaalam na ako kay Mommy?” asked Kath. “Basta, I know a good place. It’s off our way pero don’t worry, pinagpaalam na kita kay Tita Iya and Tito Gab.” Albie informed. “You did that? Are you serious?” Kath exclaimed. “Oo, pumayag naman sila eh, Tito Gab gave me another death glare, though. Pero pumayag rin naman siya.” Albie said as he continued to drive.
“We’re here.” Albie informed. Kathryn looked all over the place as she went off Albie’s car. The place was unfamiliar to her. She asked, “Albie, nasaan tayo?” as she looked at the restaurant in front of them. “At my hiding place,” Albie replied.
The paparazzi who were following them were very busy taking photos and eavesdropping to their conversation. Albie and Kath entered the restaurant, the paparazzi followed them, pretending to be regular customers of the restaurant.
“Ang ganda naman ng lugar na ‘to.” Kathryn said referring to the open restaurant and the view over-looking some parts of the busy world of Manila. “I know right? And isa pang ikinagaganda ng place na ’to, wala gaanong pumupunta dito.” Albie said. “So, this is your secret hiding place?” Kathryn asked. “Uhhhm, hindi naman talaga secret, alam nina Mom, Dad and Adam ang place na ‘to.” Albie replied.
“Hmmm, I wonder ilang girls na dinala mo dito,” Kathryn said, trying to tease Albie. This earned her a pinch on her right cheek. “Sounding like a jealous girlfriend, aren’t you?” Albie retorted. “Yuck, ang kapal mo talaga!” Kath argued.
“Pero seriously, ikaw pa lang ang nakakaalam ng secret place ko na ‘to, except my family of course.” Albie told Kath. Kathryn was in a shock when she heard it from Albie. She was unable to say anything. “I come here to unwind, relax and cool down. Dito kasi, I don’t have to be anybody else but myself. I don’t have to meet everyone else’s expectations. I don’t have to meet any standard. I just have to be Albie Casino, that’s all.” Albie said.
Kathryn was amazed by Albie’s words. She saw a different Albie Casino, after recovering from the shock, she managed to ask, “So, if this is your own perfect world, ba’t mo shini-share ‘tong place na ‘to sa’kin ngayon.” It was Albie’s turn to be caught off guard, but he easily gathered his wits back and said, “Hindi ko nga rin alam eh, I’m quite confident you won’t tell anyone about this and feeling ko rin kasi you need to unwind too.”
Albie finished explaining to Kath, and as if on cue, the waiter approached them.
“Sir Albie, buti naman nakadalaw ka ulit, ang tagal mo nang di naliligaw dito eh.” The waiter greeted Albie and then, turned to Kath and then back to Albie and said, “Ay, Sir! Kasama mo pala si Mara!” “Ma’am, mas maganda po pala kayo sa personal!”
Kathryn blushed upon the compliment. “Syempre naman, Manong Ray, magdadala ba naman ako ng date na pangit?” Albie joked. “Naku, ikaw talaga, Sir! Teka Sir, yung dating order pa rin po ba?” The waiter asked. Albie gave him a nod and said, “Yes, for two.”
The waiter said before leaving, “Sige po, Sir Albie! Hintayin niyo na lang po ang order niyo.”
“Parang ang close niyo na nung waiter ah?” Kath commented. “Ah, oo, bata pa kasi ako, madalas na kaming mag-bonding ng family ko dito.” Albie said. “Ah, kaya naman pala parang haven mo na kung ituring ang lugar na ‘to.” Kath commented again.
The two kept on talking about so many random things, occasionally giving out a laugh while waiting for the food that they ordered. Still, unknown to them that the paparazzi were recording their every word and trying to catch their every move on film.
Their food arrived and they happily ate it, still having some exchange of stories.
“Uhhhm, Kath?” Albie said in a low tone. “Yes?” Kathryn asked as she looked up to Albie. Albie grabbed the table napkin near him and wiped off the stain near Kath’s face. Kath could feel her face turning red, but managed to thank Albie. “Kahit kelan talaga, burara ‘tong bossing ko…” Albie commented. This earned him a playful punch from Kath.
This, of course, was not missed by the sharp lenses of the paparazzi.
After eating, they stayed for a while as they discussed some more stories.
Albie called the waiter and brought out some cash as he said, “Manong Ray, keep the change na po.” The waiter gave him and Kath a warm smile as he thanked them before leaving.
“Akala ko ba ako manlilibre?” Kath asked Albie. “Do you really think I’d let a girl pay for me, Kath?” Albie returned the question. “May pagka-gentledog ka rin palang tinatago, noh?” Kath joked. “Anong sinabi mo?” Albie said as he stood up from his chair and tickled Kath. “Loko ka, tama na…” Kath said in between her laughter. “Tara na nga! Iuuwi na kita sa inyo at baka gawin na akong tansan ng Daddy mo!” Albie said as he held Kath’s hand, dragging her out of the resto.
The two didn’t notice that they were holding hands as they walked to Albie’s car. It was Kath who first noticed it. “Aheeeem, Albie, yung kamay ko, pwede mo nang bitawan.” Kath said shyly. “Oh, I’m sorry” were the only words that escaped Albie’s mouth.
He opened the door for her and drove to Kath’s home.
As they reached Kath’s house, they were again greeted by Kathryn’s jolly mom. Albie mentally thanked the good Lord because Kath’s dad was not yet home. Kath’s mom thanked Albie and offered him to have dinner. Albie politely declined, explaining that he has to go home early for a family dinner.
Every action, every exchange of words, none of these were able to escape the paparazzi’s sharp lenses and ears.
Chapter 9
As soon as Albie finished dinner with his family, he went up to his room, had a nice, warm bath and changed into his sleeping quotes. He grabbed his mobile phone on top of his bedside table and sent a text message to Kathryn, “I’m home now, I enjoyed your company. Sana may next time pa,” the message says.
Kathryn on the other hand, was already in bed, reading a book when her mobile phone beeped. She knew at the back of her mind that the message came from Albie. And as expected, it was. Kath smiled as soon as she finished reading Albie’s message. She replied and there was an exchange of messages between the two:
Kath: Sure, basta ba naman papayagan mo na akong magbayad next time eh.
Albie: Nope. Di mangyayari yan. I won’t let you.
Kath: Edi, walang next time!
Albie: Daya mo naman.
Kath: Anyways, Albie, thanks for sharing your secret place with me. Appreciated it. Really.
Albie: It’s nothing. From now on, secret place na NATIN yun.
Kath: Ang lakas ko talaga sayo!
Albie: Syempre naman, ikaw bossing ko eh.
Kath: Naks naman! Di ka pa ba matutulog?
Albie: Di pa, watch pa ako TV. Wala namang taping bukas eh. Ikaw, sleep ka na. I know you’re tired.
Kath: Sige, mauuna na akong matulog. Sleep tight, Albie. ♥
Albie: Naks naman, makakatulog talaga ako ng mahimbing! May heart eh, oh.
Kath: Sira ka talaga! Good night!
Albie: Okay, Boss! Sleep well and sweet dreams! ♥
Kath fell into slumber with a wide smile plastered on her face. While Albie, who was watching TV, wasn’t really watching TV, he was just staring at it and his thoughts, all with his Mara. Oh, wait, did he just say HIS Mara? He shrugged the thought off his mind and just smiled to himself.
“Oh, Albie Casiño, ano bang iniisip mo?” Albie said to himself loudly. “Are you crazy? She is not YOUR Mara and you DON’T like her!” He continued as he mentally scolded himself.
“Oh, Kuya, nakakapanibago ka naman! Ngayon lang kita nakikitang kinakausap sarili mo ah.” Adam commented. Albie was shocked upon realizing that his brother was already sitting on the couch of his room. “Is by brother a ninja or something?” Albie thought to himself, smiled and said, ”Adam, kanina ka pa ba jan?” His brother simply gave him a nod and a wide grin as he said, “Yeah, kanina pa. And I heard every word you said to yourself.”
Albie was silenced, he didn’t know what to say to his brother. “Alam mo, Kuya, ikaw na rin ang maysabi sa akin noon, I don’t have to hide my feelings to myself. If you can’t tell her, you can talk to me. We’re brothers, you can talk to me instead of talking to yourself.” Adam said to his older brother.
“But if you don’t wanna talk about it just yet, I’ll leave you alone first. Think about it.” His brother said as he again, left Albie dumbfounded.
Albie was sitting in front of the TV set as he thought of what his brother said. He thought of Kathryn and whatever he feels for her. He has fallen asleep with unanswered questions at the back of his mind.
The next morning, Albie woke up the lound sound of his mobile phone ringing. It was an unregistered number. He picked it up in a lousy-just-woke-up voice.
The caller turned out to be Boy Abunda, trying to get him and Kath into an interview on The Buzz. He was shocked upon hearing the reason.
It turned out that the photos of his “date” with Kath has leaked out to the public overnight. Articles about them were all over the different tabloids. He panicked as he informed Boy Abunda that he had to talk about it with Kath first before accepting the interview, and promised to call back Boy Abunda as soon as he’s done talking with Kath over the matter.
Albie quickly called Kath. Kath picked up her phone and said, “Hello, Albie! Ang aga mo namang napatawag.” “Uhhhm, Kath. We have some problems to settle.” Albie simply stated trying to calm his voice down.
Albie calmly told Kath about Boy Abunda’s phone call and discussed to her how the public knew about their “date.”
“Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat??!!” Kath screamed at the top of her voice from the other line.
Chapter 10
“OMG. Albie, anong gagawin natin?” Kath asked. “Kath, please calm down, okay? Papunta ako jan sa inyo.” Albie said.
Albie hurriedly took a bath, changed his clothes and then rushed downstairs. He was about to leave their house when his dad stopped him, “Albie, saan ka pupunta?” “Kina Kath po, Dad.” Albie replied. “Umupo ka muna, we have to talk,” Albie’s mom said. This worried Albie a bit, so he decided to just follow his parents’ order.
Adam, who just came down also sat beside Albie on the couch. Albie felt the tension going on, not too long, his dad broke the silence, saying, “Albie, alam na namin. We saw it on the news, it’s all over the tabloid and the internet.” Albie didn’t say anything and just looked down.
“So you really like her don’t you?” It was Rina’s turn to speak. “Huh? What are you talking about, Mom?” Albie asked in pure confusion. “You brought her to Villa Mercedes, your little haven, didn’t you?” Benjo spoke. “Yes Dad, I did. But it’s really nothing. We’re just friends. Masyado lang akong comfortable with her.” Albie explained.
“Have you forgotten what you promised us and yourself when you were still a kid?” Benjo asked. Albie stayed quiet as he was still in shock, realizations came dawning on him.
He remembered clearly, way back when he was a young boy, he proudly promised himself and his parents that the first girl he’d bring to his little haven will be the girl he’d love forever. He held on to that promise for so long, he didn’t even bring any of his past girlfriends there. He couldn’t believe how he let his guards down, forgot about it and brought Kathryn there. He disregarded his promise… He mentally scolded himself. Was Kath that important to him for him to disregard a vow that he’s been holding on for so long?
His train of thoughts was cut off when his dad spoke again, “What are your plans now? How will you settle this?” Albie replied, “I don’t know yet, Dad. I’ll be going to Kath now to speak over the matter.”
Albie, along with his mom, dad and manager went to the Bernardo’s residence. There, they talked over what really happened at Villa Mercedes and what exactly exists between the two young stars. Both parties agreed that Kath and Albie will have an interview with Boy Abunda with the condition that the interview will be done at the Casino residence two days from now.
On the day of the interview, Kath, along with her parents and her manager came about an hour earlier than Boy Abunda. It was evident on Kath’s face that she was anxious about the said interview, Albie, too was nervous about it, but he was able to conceal it well.
Albie grabbed Kath away from their parents and managers, and talked to her, “Kath, mukhang kinakabahan ka ah, wag ka masyadong kabahan, okay? Calm down.” Kath replied in her anxious tone, “Albie, sino ba naman hindi kakabahan? Si Boy Abunda ang mag-iinterview sa atin! Kayang-kaya niya tayong gisahin! Paano ka ba nakakapag-relax jan?” Albie held her hand and assured her, “Let’s just answer all his questions truthfully, Kath. Everything will be fine. I’m here. Ako man, kinakabahan rin, pero let’s just think positive, okay? Kath didn’t say anything but he managed to give Albie her genuine smile, the kind of smile that’s as if it’s only reserved for Albie, just Albie.
Moments later, they were called and signaled that the interview was already about to begin. The interview began smoothly with some random greetings from both parties, the exchange of words went like this:
Boy: Kath, Albie, hindi na ako magpapaligoy-ligoy pa, do you have a relationship?
Albie: Yes… Friendship.
Boy: Pag sinabing friends, what kind of friends? Friends with benefits? Friends? Friends? Expand it.
Kath: We’re friends, good friends, close friends, best friends.
Boy: Let’s get it straight to the point. The pictures, the articles, tell me about it. Tell everyone about it.
Albie: Uhhm, Tito Boy, I think ako po ang dapat sumagot niyan kasi ako po ang lalaki.
(Kath looked at Albie and smiled to him)
Albie: The picture were real. Kath and I went out and dined in Villa Mecedes, but it wasn’t a date.
Boy: Pero ang sabi ng mga articles na narinig ka raw ng mga tao doon talking to the waiter and referring to Kath, being your date.
Albie: That’ also true. Nagkakabiruan po kasi kami ng waiter nun, madalas po kasi ako sa resto na yun ver since, kaya halos lahat ng employees po ng resto, kaibigan ko na po.
Boy: Moving on, Albie, a very reliable source told us na hinahatid-sundo mo raw si Kath, at madalas mo pa raw dinadalaw sa set kahit hindi ka naman called for shoot. How true is it?
Albie: That’s also true, Tito Boy. Hinahatid-sundo ko po si Kath since on leave po yung driver niya kasi may sakit and parati pong busy ang parents niya with their business. So I offered po na ako na lang ang maghahatid-sundo sa kanya for the mean time. Hindi ko rin naman po maaatim na may mangyaring masama kay Bossing, este kay Kath dahil pinabayaan ko siyang mag-taxi mag-isa.
Boy: Bossing? Is that how you call her?
Albie: Opo.
Boy: Ikaw naman, Kath. How do you call Albie?
Kath: Ha, eh… Albie lang po. Eto lang naman pong si Albie ang kung anu-ano ang tinatawag sa’kin eh.
Boy: On the more serious note, Kath, paano mo pinahahalagahan si Albie bilang leading man and BEST FRIEND?
Kath: Uhhm, needless to say, alam naman po ni Albie kung gaano po siya kahalaga sa’kin both as my on screen partner and best friend eh… Alam na po ni Albie yun…
Boy: Ikaw naman Albie, we all know that you and Candy Sundalee had a relationship before, does she know about this?
Albie: I believe alam niya naman po. And I don’t think kailangan pa po nating isali si Candy dito since whatever existed between us is over na po. Past is past nga po, diba? So, wala na po yun. We’re still friends, though.
Boy: I understand, pero one last question about Candy Sundalee… What sets Kathryn Bernardo apart from Candy Sundalee?
Albie: Uhhm, si Kath po kasi, I feel comfortable talking with her, alam niyo po yung feeling na I don’t have to be somebody else when I’m with her. Parang kahit ilang months ko pa lang po siya nagiging friend and ka-trabaho, comfortable na po ako with her. Ganun rin naman po si Candy, but Kath’s just different.
(Kath looked at Albie, teary eyed; Boy noticed)
Boy: Kath, naluluha ka. Bakit?
Kath: Wala po, na-touch lang po ako kay Albie, I never thought po kasi na ganun po kalaki ang impact ko sa kanya.
Boy: Alam niyo, kayo, I can feel the honesty from both of you. Walang halong ka-plastikan mga sagot niyo eh. One last question for both of you… You both value your relationship as best friends right now, am I right? Pero do you think yung pagiging friends niyo, mas lalalim pa and soon, di natin alam, maging kayo rin?
Albie: (Nahiya) Uhhhm, for me naman po. It’s not impossible. Hindi naman po kasi mahirap mahalin si Kath, look at her, she’s beautiful, mabait, matalino… Pero it’s not just the right time for us po. Bata pa po kami for that.
Boy: Ikaw naman, Kath?
Kathryn: Agree po ako sa sinabi ni Albie, masyado pa po kaming mga bata for that… Pero we’re not closing any doors naman po… Tingnan niyo naman po si Albie, gwapo, masipag, mabait, caring, makulit nga lang pero hindi rin naman po siya mahirap mahalin and after all, mahirap magsalita ng patapos.
With that, Boy Abunda ended the interview with the speculations answered truthfully by both Albie and Kathryn.
“Just The Way You Are”
written by: Pipay/ Myat
Starring:
Kathryn Bernardo- Cassandra “Cassie” Benedicto
Albie Casiño- Vincent “Vince”Castro
Sam Concepcion-Ethan
Julia Montes -Abby
Aira Clemente- Annie
Ejay - Jorge
Jaco Benin-Benjo
sorry can't decide pa sa ibang casts...importante naman sina albie at kath lang
Ang pag-ibig na matagal mong pinangarap....
Ang pag-ibig na matagal mong hinangad...
pag nakamtan mo na...
Kaya mo bang gawin ang lahat?
Hanggang saan ang kaya mong tiisin para sa pagmamahal?..
hanggang saan mo kayang makipaglaban para sa pag-ibig?
o sa huli.....
susuko ka na lang ba para sa ikaliligaya ng taong iyong minamahal?
Matagal ng may gusto si Cassie kay Vince....pero may ibang mahal si Vince..Pero gagawin ni Cassie lahat para mapalapit sa kanya...Pero ng nagkalapit na sila , nong inakala na ni cassie na okey na sa kanila ang lahat....muling magbabalik ang babaeng dating minahal ni Vince...Nasaktan si cassie kasi pakiramdam niya pinaasa lang siya ni Vince..may isang lalkeng darating na magmamahal kay cassie...dito na realize ni Vince na minahal niya si cassie kung kailan wala na ito sa kanya.......huli na nga ba ang lahat para kanila?sa huli alin nga baangmas matimbang ang taong iyong minamahal o ang taong tunay na nagmamahal sayo?
CHAPTER 1
(Sa school gym)
(Championship game ng basketball...naghihiyawan ang mga tao)
Cassie: (tumitili) Go Vince!shoot that ball! Wooohhoooo
Annie: (napatigin ke cassie)
Jorge: alam mo friend try mo kayang tumili?
Cassie: ay! Hindi pa ba enough yong tili ko? (tumili ng pagkalakas lakas) Go Vincee!!!!
Jorge: ay! Ewan ko sayo!
(Pagkatapos ng game)
Cssie; Jorge; Annie: (nakaabang sa labas ng gym)
Jorge: friend, anong ginagawa natin dito?
Cassie: inaabangan natin ang paglabas ni Vince, sasabitan ko siya nitong lei
Jorge: ano?! Di pa siya ga gradweyt teh!
Cassie: bakit? Yong mga graduates lang ba ang puwedeng sabitan nito?eh diba sinasabitan din **** ng ganito yogn mga artista ng mga fans nila?
Annie: soo..fan ka na ngayon?
Cassie: eh alam mo namang di ko lang siya idol! Mahal ko siya!
Jorge: ay! Di namin alam yon?talaga? (napatingin ke annie) kalurkey tong si cassandra araw araw ba naman niyang sinasabi satin kung gaano siya ka patay na patay diyan ke vince!
Annie: hayaan mo na! Suportahan na lang natin siya!
Vince; Benjo; Anton;Mike: (lumabasng gym)
Girls: (nagtitilian)
Cassie: (lalapitan sana si vince)
Abby: (dumating at niyakap si vince) hi babe!
Cassie: (napaatras)
Abby: congrats babe!Im sorry hindi ko napanood yong game.but im happy you won!
Vince: (napatango) lets go! Sige mga pare mauna na kami huh!
Benjo: sige Vince! Kita tayo mamaya sa victory party huh?
Vince: okey!
Abby: bye guys!
Benjo; anton; mike: byee!!
abby; vince: (umalis)
Jorge: ganda talaga ni abby nho?
Annie: (hinampas si Jorge)
Jorge: pero walng wala siya sa ganda mo cassie!
Cassie: (nalungkot)
(Sa canteen)
Cassie; Jorge;Annie: (kumakain)
Cassie: sayang naman tong leis oh! (binigay kay Jorge) iyo na lang!
Jorge: kalurkey huh!
Annie: matagal tagal na ring girlfriend ni Vince yang si Abby huh!
Cassie: oo nga eh!
Jorge: maghihiwalay din yang mga yan!
Cassie: oy wag ka namng ganyan!ayokong nahi hurt si vince ko!
Jorge: eh di i comfort mo!
Cassie: may point ka diyan friend!but still ayoko pa ding iwi wish yon
jorge: so kuuntento ka na lang talaga sa ganyan?
Cassie: anong ganyan?
Jorge:yong ganyan!lihim na pagsinta!
Cassie: ehhh....
annie: lihim pa ba yan? Eh kung habul habulin niya si vince paramg may malaking utang sa kanya yong tao.
Cassie: kayo naman oh! Suportahan nyo na lang ako.
Jorge: kailan ka ba namin hindi sinuportahan huh?
Annie: nga pala Jorge hindi ka ba talaga pupuwede mamaya para don sa victory party ng varsity team?
Jorge: sorry friend huh? Nasa ospital kasi si lola, turn namin gn sister ko ngayon sa pagbabantay kasi walang pasok bukas.
Annie: eh sinong magiging photographer ko mamaya para sa victory party for the school paper?
Cassie: ahem! Eh di ako! Sino pa ba?
Jorge: oh ayan si cassie di mo na kelangan pilitin yan, magvo volunteer pa!
Cassie: ofcourse!
Annie: marunong ka naman diba mag take ng pictures?
Cassie: oo naman! Grabe ka naman!kahit ako pa mag interview don ek vince okey lang!
Annie: o sige sama ka sakin mamaya!
Cassie: (Niyakap si annie) thanks friend!
(Sa isang resto)
vince: abby: (kumakain)
Vince: so what time kita susunduin mamaya?
Abby:where are we going?
Vince: sa victory party ng team..in case you forgot, youre my date diba?
Abby: oh my god!
Vince: what?
Abby: may pictorial ako mamaya for a magazine
vince: what?!diba usapan natin you will block off this date?hindi mo na nga inabutan yong game kanina dahil late ka, hindi ka pa makakasama sakin tonight.
Abby: im sorry na nga.you understand naman diba?
Vince: lagi nalang ba?
Abby: promise, babawi ako!
Vince: (hindi umimikl hlatang inis)
abby: vince pls..babe plsss...
vince: kumain ka na..
(Gabi)
(Sa isang resto bar na pinagdausan ng victory party ng varsity team)
cassie: annie kumusta na ang ayos ko?ganda ko na ba?
Annie: oo. Okey na yang ayos mo!
Cassie: talaga? Pag nakita ako ni vince feeling mo mapapa second look siya s aganda ko?
Annie: mapapa second look siya kasi magtataka yon kung bat ka andito?
Cassie: damit? Memorize ba niya lahat ng staff ng school paper?teka, bat ang tagal nya? Abangan kaya natin siya sa labas?
Annie: cassie, wag ka oa!pag andiyan na siya natural papasok yon andito kaya sa loob ang party!
Cassiel okey.
Benjo: (pumasok)coach andiya na si vince!
Coach neil: oh good!at ng maumpisahan na nati yong party
cassie: (nataranta)annie andiyan na si vince! Andyan na siya! (dali daling lumapit sa pinto)
Vince: (pumasok)
cassie: (pini piktyuran si vince)
Vince: (nagtaka na panay ang kuha sa kanya ng pictures cassie)
Annie: (nilpaitan si cassie)
vince: miss!miss! (pinahinto ang pagkuha sa kanya ng pictures ni cassie) enough okey?
Cassie: ahh sorry na excite lang ako
vince: para san ba yang pictures na yan bat ang dami?
Cassie: para ma develop ka..
vince: ano?!
Cassie: ahhh I mean para sa school paper
vince: ganun ba?
Coach neil: O vince let the party started! (Inakbayan si vince)
Vince: okey..
coach bat parang wala ka ata sa mood ngayon?
Vince: si abby kasi..
coach Neil: o don tayo!
Coach Neil; Vince: (pumunta sa isang table)
cassie: annie *** siyang date!
Annie: (napailing)
(Nagsisimula na ang party)
Annie:O cassie halika na interviewhin na natin si coach
cassie: sige. Si Vince din ba iinterviewhin mo?
Annie: oo. Bilang siya yong team captain kelangan ko din siyang interviewhin.pero unahin muna natin si coach
cassie: sige
annie: tara!
(Sa table nina coach at ng mga players)
Annie; Cassie: (lumapit)
annie: ah coach puwede ka na ba namin ma interview?
Coach neil: sure! Excuse me lang guys huh iinterviewhin muna ako nila annie for the school paper
players: okey coach!
Coach neil: don tayo sa table na yon ni annie!
Annie: sige po coach
coach Neil; Annie: (pumunta sa isang table)
cassie: (naktunganga habang nakatingin ke vince)
vince: (nakaupo; halatang wala sa mood)
Annie: (hinila si cassie)cassie halika na!
Annie; Cassie: (pumunta sa table na kinaroroonan ni coach)
(Sa table nina vince)
Benjo: bat ba wala ka sa mood ngayon huh?
Anton: tinatanong pa ba yan pare eh shempre wala si Abby
Mike: bat ba di siya nakasama sayo ngayon pare?
Vince: may pictorial daw siya for magazine
anton: intindihin mo na lang kumuha ka ng girlfriend na artista eh, kaya masanay ka na!
Vince: sana hindi ko na lang siya pinayagan mag artista
mike: bakit? Tingin mo ba mapipiglan mo siya?
Benjo: eh diba what Abby wants, Abby gets
Vince: oo nga eh
Mike: tsaka alam namin mahal na mahal mo yang si Abby kaya di mo rin siya matitiis
Vince: (hindi nakaimik)
(Sa labas ng resto bar)
Vince: (may kausap sa phone)yes, andito pa ako.ikaw? Asan ka na?
Abby: (sa kabilang linya)nasa pictorial pa. Oh tinatawag na ako. Ingat ka pag-uwi!bye!
Vince: bye! I love you!
Abby: (binba ang phone)
Vince: (nalungkot)
Cassie: (nasa may likuran ni vince; bumulong) I love you too...
Vince: (pabalik na sana sa loob ng resto bar; napatingin ke casie)
Cssie: ahhh Vince puwede ka na bang ma interview para sa school paper?
Vince: okey (pumasok sa loob)
cassie: eh maging akin...puwedeka? (kinikilg na pumasok sa loob ng resto bar)
(Sa loob)
annie: (kausap si Vince)
Cassie: (pumasok)
annie: cassie halika na!
Cassie: (lumapit)
Vince: teka, memberka pala ng school paper?
Cassie: huh?
Vince: kasi sina annie laging nagka cover sa mga games namin..pero ikaw...
annie: ahh si Jorge yong photographer namin sa school paper hindi siya kasi available tonight kaya pinakiusapan ko si casie na samahan ako
Vince: ahhh okey
Cassie: (nakangiting nakatinginke vince)
Vince: (naptingin ke cassie) are you okey?
Cassie: sobra!
Vince: okey. Para ka kasing lasing
cassie: (napabulong) para ka kasing alak, nakakalasing
annie: (tiningnansi cassie)
vince: ano?
Cassie: ahh wa wala..sige na annie simulan mo na
Annie: so vince how was it na champion ulit kayo?
Vince: Im happy. It feels great! At least nagbunga yong ilang weeks din naming preparation para don sa game
ANNIE: sino sino ba ang mga inspirations mo?
Vince: si abby. Girlfriend ko
Cassie: siya lang?
Annie; Vince: (gulat na napatingin ke cassie)
Cassie: ahh..family, hindi ba?
Annie: cassie...
cassie: sorry, sige continue!
(Pagkatapos ng party)
(Sa labas)
Annie: o casie tara na uwi na tayo!
Cassie: sige mauna ka na
Annie: huh?sabay ka na sakin, andyan na sundo ko
cassie: sabay kami ni Vince
Annie: ano?cassie huh tama na yang ka adikan mo. Alam ko malaking tulong sakin yan ngayong gabi ang pagka obssessed mo ke vince pero awat na!uwi na tayo!
Cassie: dontworry about me annie okey lang talaga ako. Wag mo na akong alalahanin
Annie: gabi na oh!tsak pupusta ko pa buhay ko never kang isasabay niyang si vince. Kayatara na umuwi na tayo
Cassie: friend, sige na mauna ka na, diba sabi mo malaki din naman naitulong ko sayo ngayon, ito na lang ang pambawi mo sakin pls
annie: at talagang hiniling mo saking pambawai ang iwan kita dito mag-isa huh?
Annie: hindi naman ako mag-iisa eh andiyan naman si Vince
Annie: alam mo ewan ko na sayo talaga!o sha mauna na ako
Cassie: thanks friend. (nagbeso kay annie) bye friend!
Annie:bye! Ingat ka pag-uwi!
Cassie: I will!
Annie: (sumakay sa kotse; umalis na)
benjo; Mike; Anton; Vince: (lumabas ng bar)
Cassie: (kinuha ang phone at agkukunwaring may kausap sa kabilang linya)ano po manong di nyo po ako masusundo? Naku paano ako uuwi nito ngayon?gabi na po oh!sge po magta taxi na alng po ako (inoff ang phone)
mike: hoy cassie! Ano bang problemamo?
Cassie: (napalingon) o andiyan pala kayo
anton: kanina pa
Cassie: eh kasi hindi ako masundo nong druiver namin, nagkasakit kasi siya
Benjo: mag taxi ka na lang!
Cassie: ano? Eh diba balitang balita lately na madalas may holdapan sa taxi? scary!yoko!
Benjo: wala naman sigurong magkaka interes sayo!
(Tawanan)
Vince: oh guys I'll go ahead susunduin ko pa si Abby..(paalis na sana)
Cassie: ah Vince!
Vince: (napalingon ke cassie) yes?
Cassie: puwede bang sumabay na ako sayo?
Vince:ano?
Cassie: eh dba on the way lang naman yong bahay namin sa inyo, isabay mo nalang ako.
Vince: hindi pa ako uuwi eh. Susunduin ko pa si Abby, may lakad pa kami, kina benjo ka na sumabay.
Cassie: huh?
Vince: (pumasok sa loob ngkotse)
Benjo: Hoy cassie huh out of the way yong bhay nyo sa bahay namin
Cassie: (inis na napalingon ke Benjo) as if naman sasabay ako sayo!kahit kaladkarin mo pa ako di ako sasabay sa inyo nho!
(umalis)
Benjo: tingnan mo yong babaeng yon ang feeling talaga! Tara na gus!
Benjo; Anton; Mike; Anton: (umalis)
(Sa may kalsada na may kadiliman)
Cassie: (naglalakad; palingon-lingon) ano ba yan, nasan na ba mgataxi?
(kAsalukuyan namang binabaybay nina Vince and kalsadang yon)
(Sa loob ng kotse)
Manong Ben: Vince, diba kaklase mo yon?
Vince: (nakita si cassie) oo. Pakihinto nga manong
(Huminto ang kotse)
Manong Ben: (binuksan ang bintana ng kotse)Miss!
Cassie: (napalingon)
Manong ben: asanang punta mo?
Cassie: pauwi po. Wala kasing taxi eh
Vince: (binuksan ang bintana ng kotse)
Cassie: (napatingin ke vince)vince?
Vince: sumakay ka na hanggang don sa may highway madami taxi don
Cassie: naku wag nanakakahiya naman sayo diba may lakad ka pa? Wag na!
Vince: okey. Sige ikaw ang bahala!tara namanong(isisrado na sana ang bintana ng kotse)
Cassie: sandali!sandali! Grabe di ka man lang namilit
Vince: nagmamadali ako okey? Kung gusto mo sumakay, sakay na. Kungayaw mo, di aalis na kami. So ano?
Cassie: sasakay na..(inaantay na pagbuksan siya ng pinto ni Vince)
vince: don ka sa kabilang pinto dumaan
Cassie: okey. (bumubulong habang papunta sa kabilang pinto ng kotse) ungentleman!buti na lang mahal kita
Vince: bilisan mo!
Cassie: (pumasok sa loob ng kotse)
(Umalis na sila)
(Sa loobng kotse)
Vince: (may kausap sa phone)yes Im on my way
abby: (sa kabilang linya)babe some other time na lang tayo magkita
Vince: ano?
Cassie; (nagtaka)
Vince: bakit na naman?
Abby: nagkakayayaankasi sila dito na lumabas
Vince: so?
Abby: sasamaako sa kanila
Vince: what? Di mo ba puweeng sabihin sa kanila namay lakad kayo ng boyfriend mo?
Abby: vicne nakakahiya naman kungtatanggihanko sila
Vince: sa kanila nahiya ka, pero sakin hindi?
Abby: pls try to understand. Puwede naman tayong mag date sa ibang arw diba?
Vince: diba kaya nga tayo lalabas tonight kasi ice celebrate nga natin yong pagkapanalo ng team namin at pagiging mvp ko
Abby: pero puwede padin naman tayong mag celebrate sa ibang araw eh! Promise babe babawi ako sayo some other time!
Vince: (hindi umimik)
Abby: o sige babe I have to go! I love you! Bye! (inoff ang phone)
Vince: helo abby!hello! (sa inis naitapon ang phone pero sa loob lang ng sasakyan)
cASSIE: (nagulat)
Vince: lagi na lang siyan ganyan! Kakasawa na!
Cassie: (pinulot ang phoneni vince)
Vince: palagi na lang siyang busy! Palagi na lang siyang di puede! Sawang sawa na ako
Cassie: eh di awat na! Suko na!
Vince: ano?
Cassie: ayaw mo na diba?
Vince: hindi ganun kadali yon
cASSIE: kasi mahal mo?
Vince: (hindi umimik)
Cassie: ganun talaga siguro yon pag mahal mo kaht nasasaktan ka sa ginagawa niya, mahal mo pa rin
Vince: bakit?naramdaman mo na ba yon?nagka boyfriend ka na ba?
Cassie: nagtatanong ka ba o nang iinsulto?
Vince: depende kugn anong pagkakaintindi mo
Cassie: bakit> yong may boyfriend lang ba o may girlfriend ang puwedeng magmahal at masaktan?lahat naman puwedeng magmahal ah, hindi nga lang lahat minamahal pabalik
vINCE: (napaisip)
(Sa tapat ng bahay nina cassie)
9Huminto ang kotse nina Vince)
Cassie: oy thank you sa paghatid vince huh? Napasarap kasi ang kuwentuhan natin naihatid mo na tuloy ako
Vince: sige youre wlcome!
Cassie: ahh baka gusto mo mumang pumasok sa loob?
Vince: no. thanks.
Cassie: sige bye!
Vince: bye!
Cassie: (bumaba ng kotse)
(Umalis na sina Vince)
Cassie: (kinilig) nakoww bat di ka man lang nag request ng goodbye kiss!
CHAPTER 2
(sa loob ng bahay)
Cassie: (pumasok)
Yaya Elisa: (lumapit) Cassie, san ka ba galing? Gabi na ah! Alalang alala kami sayo
Cassie: (napatili) yayaaaaaaaa!!!!!!!!!!
Yaya Elisa: hoy! Ano bang nangyayri sayong bata ka?
Cassie: yaya, hinatid ako ng magiging future boyfriend ko
Yaya Elisa: ano?
Cassie: hinatid niya ako
Yaya Elisa: yong Vince?
Cassie: tamoohhh!!siya na nga yon Yaya!
Yaya Elisa: asan?naku at ng makilatis ko na
Cassie: ayun nakauwi na
Yaya Elisa:eh teka diba sabi mo may girlfriend na yon? Hiwalay na ba sila?
Cassie: hindi. Hindi pa!
YAYA Elisa: oh ganun naman pala. Ikaw bata ka bat ka sumasama sa lalakeng may girlfriend na?
Cassie: eh yaya yong paghatid niya sakin kanina wala pa namang malisya yon
yaya elisa: ano?
Cassie: malay mo one day magka malisya na din siya sakin diba?
Yaya Elisa: ikaw talagang bata ka!
Cassie: o shat Yaya matutulog na ako. Dadalhin ko nalang muna sa pagtulog ko ang prince Charming ko
Yaya Elisa: o sige na goodnight!
Cassie: goodnight Yaya! (umakyat papunta sa room niya)
Yaya Elisa: (napangiti habang tiningnan si Cassie)
(Kinabukasan)
(Sa school)
Cassie; Annie; Jorge: (naglalakad)
Annie: talaga? Hinatid ka niya kagabi?
Cassie: yup! At nag-uusap na kami
Jorge: oh nag-uusap naman kayo dati pa ah!
Cassie: iba yon. Yogn kagabi, yopng pag-uusap namin ehh..parang may patutunguhan
Jorge: patutunguhan?
Cassie: oo patutunguhang ..something special (kinilig)
Annie: (napailing)
Cassie: basta ang mahalaga sakin ngayon eh nagiging close na kami
Jorge: close talaga?hinatid ka lang niya sandali talagang ina assume mo na talagang close na kayo huh
cassie:ehhhpapunta na rin yon don.wagnyo ng kontrahin
vINCE: (naglalakad; nakasalubong sina cassie)
Cassie: oh ayan na siya! (nakangiti akala niya papansinin siya ni vince)
Vince: (napadaan na parang hind napapansin si cassie)
Cassie; annie; Jorge: (napatingin lang ke vince)
Annie; Jorge: (nagkatinginan)
Cassie: malamang nagmamadali siya kaya di niya ako napansin
annie; Jorge: siguro nga!
Cassie: tara!
(S a gym)
andoon sina cassie para sa PE class nila
Vince; Benjo;Mike;Anton: (dumating; papunta sa basketball court)
(Sa kinaroroonan nina cassie)
Cassie: (nakita si vince) oh sandali huh bibigay ko muna tong chocolate case kay vince. (dali-daling pinuntahan si vince)
(Sa kinaroroonan ni vince)
Cassie: (lumapit kay Vince) Vince!Vince!
Vince: (napalingon kay Cassie) Oh bakit?
Cassie: (inabot ang choclate cake klay Vince) for you!
Vince: (nagtaak)for what?
Cassie: ahh pa thank you ko sayo sa paghatid mo sakin kagabi
benjo: (nagulat) talaga pare? Ikaw naghatid sa kanya kagabi?(natawa) ayos ah!
Vince: nakita ko lang siyang naglalakad diyan sa madilim na kalsada
Mike: aba! Kelan ka pa naging good boy?
Benjo; Mike; Anton: (natawa)
Cassie:sige na tanggapin mo na
Vince: (tinanggap) thank you. Lets go guys!
Cassie: you're welcome...
Vince; Benjo;Mike;Anton: (tawanan na papasok ng court)
Cassie: (napangiti;kinilig)
(Sa may labas ng gym)
Cassie;Jorge;Annie: (naglalakad)
Cassie: (may hinahanap sa bag)
annie: Hoy cassie ano bang hinahanap mo diyan?
Cassie: yong cellphone ko nakita nyo ba?
Jorge: hindi.eh diba kanina lang gamit mo yon?
Cassie: baka naiwan ko yon sa gym. Sandali balikan ko muna. (patakbong bumalik sa gym)
annie: bilisan mo antayin ka namin dito
(Sa gym)
Cassie: (hinahanp sa upuan ang cellhphone)
Janitorlumapit) cassie
Cassie: (napalingon) Oh Manong
Jnaitor: ano bang hinahanap mo diyan?
Cassie: yong cellhphone ko po kasi naiwanko ata dito
Janitor: ay sandali! (kinuha ang cellphone sa bulsa at inabot kay cassie) sayo ba to?
Cassie: yes manong! (kinuha ang phone) salamat po.
Janitor: dadalhin ko sana yan sa Principal's office mamaya, baka kung sakali may maghanap
cassie: salamat po manong. (napansin ang chocolate cake na hawak ng janitor)ahhh mahilig po pala kayo sa chocolate cake
janitor: ah bigay sakin to ni Vince
Cassie: talaga po?
Janitor: oo. Sabi niya kasi hindi siya mahilig sa chocolate cake kaya nibigay na niya sakin
Cassie: (nalungkot)ahh ganun po ba
Janitor: oo. O sige cassie lilinisin ko pa locker room eh.
Cassie: sige po! Salamt po ulit
Janitor: sige (umals)
(Sa man canteen)
Cassie; Jorge; Annie: (kumakain)
Jorge:ano? Nibigay ni Vince sa janitor yong binigay mong cake sa kanya?
Cassie: oo. Oh diba ang thoughtful niya? Mas lalo ko tuloy siyang minahal
annie: so okey lang sayo?
Cassie: o-oo naman!at least di niya tinapon, shinare niyan.
Jorge: pero mas okey padin yong kinain niya, bigay mo yon diba?
Cassie: okey lang yon! Gawan ko nalang siya ng iba kasi di naman pala siya mahilig sa chocolate cake.
Jorge: oh tara na punta na tayo sa library
Cassie: oh tara!
(Tumayo sila. Nang mapadaan sila sa table nina Vince ay nakita ni cassie na chocolate cake andkinakain ni vince)
Cassie: (nalungkot ng makitang chocolate cake ang kinakain ni vince)
Annie: (hinila si Cassie)tara na!
Jorge: baka naman hindi kanya yan!
(Gabi)
Sa bahay nina Cassie)
(Sa room niya)
Cassie: (nakaupo; nakatingin sa picture ni vince na wallpaper niya sa laptop niya) ang guwapo guwapo mo talaga!hayyy kelan ka kaya magigign akin? Akin ka na lang huh?kung nakakandado yang puso mo, handa kong pa duplicate susi na kay abby, mabuksan ko lang yan, para sakin naman! Nakowwww (kinikilig mag-isa)
(Nag ring ang phone)
Cassie: (sinagot ang phone) hello
Mommy Suzette: (sa kabilang linya)hello baby
Cassie: hello Ma? Mommy?
Mommy Suzetet: how are you?
Cassie: okey *** po. Kayo po?si daddy>
Mommy Suzette: were okey.masyado lang kaming bus ng dad mo.
Cassie:so kelan po anguwi nyo?sa linggot po ba andito na kayo?
Mommy Suzette: were not sure pa baby eh. May mga meetings pa kasi kami
cassie: (nalungkot) ganun po ba
daddy Emil: (tinawag si suzette) O hon lets go na! Mali late na tayo sa meetng
Mommy Suzetteh baby we have to go
cassie: ah si daddy po puwede ko po ba siyang makausap?
Mommy Suzette: hon gusto ka kausapin ni cassie
Daddy Emil: I'll call herlater
Cassie: (nalungkot ng marinig ang sinabi ng ama)
Mommy Suzette: ah baby..
cassie: sge na po Ma baka malate na po kayo sa meeting nyo
Mommy Suzette: okey. Bye
Cassie: ah ma I... (nalungkot ng binabaan siya ngphone ng ina)
(Isang araw)
(Sa school)
vINCE: (may kausap sa phone)okey sige magkita tayo! (pupunta na ako diyan.wait for me (inoff ang cellphone; umalis)
Cassie: (nakitang paalis si vince) san kaya pupunta yong si Vince (sinundan si vince)
(Sa isang coffee shoppe malapit sa school)
Vince: (pumasok)
Cassie: (nakitang papasok si vince)
(Sa loob ng coffee shoppe)
Vince; Abby: (magkausap)
(Sa labas)
Cassie: (nalungkot ng makitang magkausap sina vince at abby)
(Sa loob ng resto)
Vince: o order muna tayo!ah waiter!
Abby: no
Vince: bakit na naman?nagmamadali ka na naman?lagi na lang bang...
abby: Vince mag break na tayo
Vince: (nagulat) ano?
Abby: ayoko na
Vince: what? Abby ano bang nangyayari sayo?
Abby: Vince, dont you think this is the best thing to do?
Vince: best thing? Ang alin? Ang maghiwalay tayo?
Abby: tingnan mo lagi na lang tayong nag-aaway. Paminsanminsan na nga lang tayong magkkta, nag-aaway pa tayo, hindi na tayo nagkakasundo. Kahit maliit na bagay pinagtatalunan na natin.
Vince: baka naninibago lang tayo kasi nagiging busy ka na. Abby malalampasan din natin to.
Abby: Vince ayoko na.pagod na ako
Vince: pagod?! Saan?
Abby: sa relasyon natin.I feel like were growing apart. Matagal na tayong magkaibigan tapos naging tayo. We never got the chance na makakilala ng ibang tao apart from each other. Kaya naisip ko baka nag stay lang tayo sa relationship na to kasi natatakot lang tayong walang ibang puwedeng magmahal satin, kasi all our lives tayo lang palagi ang magkasama.
Vince: Abby mahal kita, mahal na mahal kita.
Abby: Im sorry Vince, I dont feel the same way anymore.
Vince: what?
Abby: sa career ko ngayon, mahirap para sakin ang may karelasyon. Lalo na yong tulad mo na hindi na bahagi ng mundong ginagalawan ko ngayon.hindi mo maiintindihan Vince
Vince: then susubukan kong intindihin, pipilitin ko
Abby: Pls Vince wag na nating ipilit ang mga bagay bagay, pakawalan na natin ang isat-isa. Let me go Pls (tumayo)
Vince: (pinigilan si abby) Abby pls dont do this to me
Abby: Vince pls ayoko na. Im sorry. (umalis)
Vince: abby! (sinundan si Abby)
(Sa kinaroronan ni Cassie)
Cassie: (nakitang nagtatalo sina Vince at Abby) nag-aaway ata sila! (nakitang sumakay si Abby sa sasakyan at napansing gusto itogn sundan ni Vince; pumara ng taxi) Manong para! (pumasok s ataxi) Manong hintuan nyo yong lalakeng yon
(Sa kinaroronan ni Vince)
(Huminto sa tapat niya ang taxi na sinasakyan ni Cassie)
Cassie: (binuksan ang binatana ng taxi) Vince, sakay na!
Vince: (nagtaka) ano?
Cassie: sakay na!dali!
Vince: (sumakay sa taxi)
Cassie: ah manong habulin mo yong kotse na yon! Bilis!
(Sinusundan ng taxi ang kotse ni abby)
Cassie: Manong wag nyong alisin yogn tingin nyo sa kotse na yan
Vince: ano bang ginagawa mo?
Cassie: eh diba kotse yon ni abby?gusto mo siyang habulin diba?
Vince: Manong ihinto mo tong taxi!
Cassie: ano?
Vince: manong ihinto mo sabi!
(Hininto ang taxi)
Vince: (lumabas ng taxi)
Cassie: oy sandali!Manong ito po bayad (inabot ang pambayad sa driver)salamat po
Driver: ika! Sinoyong hinahabol natin?
Cassie: girlfriend po nong lalakeng kasama ko kanina
Driver: eh kaano ano ka nong lalake?
Cassie: pag tuluyan na po silang maghiwalay nong girlfriend niya, ako na po yogn magiging girlfriend niya
Driver: ahh..o sige na habulin mo na siya para maging boyfriend mo na
Cassie: naks!supportive ka manong huh?salamat po (dali-daling umalis)
Driver: mga bata talaga nagyon oo
(Sa may kalsada)
Vince: (mabilis maglakad)
Cassie: (sinusundan si Vince) hoy vINCE, saan ka ba pupunta?
Vince: puwede na pabayan mo na ako
Cassie: teka sandali!talaga bang maglalakad tayo?hindi ba tayo puwedeng sumakay man lang kung saan mo gustong pumunta?
Vince: puwede bang umuwi ka na.leave me alone!
Cassie: hindi! Hindi kita iiwan mag-isa
Vince: sige, bahala ka, mapapagod ka lang!
Cassie: Hindi nga ako napagod mahalin ka, sundan pa kaya!
(Hindi narinig ni Vince and sinabi ni cassie dahil may dumaang maingay na sasakyan sa tapat nila)
Vince: anong sabi mo?
Cassie: sabi ko ma...
Vince: (napahinto at tinitigan ang billboard ni Abby na ansa gitna ng kalye)
Cassie: (napatingin sa billboard ni abby at tiningnan si Vince) mahal mo talaga siya! Tumawid na tayo don! (patawid ng kalsada)
Vince: (napansin may kotseng paparating) Cassie! (hinila si casie)
Cassie; Vince: (natumba)
Cassie: (napapikit ng magkalapit ang mukha nila ni Vince)
Vince: (tumayo)
Cassie: (nakapikit pa rin)
Vince: hoy! May plano ka bang matulog diyan?
Cassie: (dumilat) wala! (tumayo)eh saan ka ba kasi pupunta?
Vince: kahit san. Basta yong mag-eenjoy ako
Cassie: alam ko kung san yon
Vince: saan?
Cassie: sa puso ko
Vince: ano?
Cassie: dali! ({pumara ng jeep)
Vince: sandali!magje jeep tayo?
Cassie: oo.gusto mo mag enjoy diba?dali! (sumakay sa humintong jeep)
Vince: (nagdadalawang isip na sumakay)
Cassie: vince dali!
Vince: (sumakay sa jeep)
(Biglang umandar ang jeep)
Vince: (napaupo sa lap ni cassie)
Cassie: aray!
Vince: sorry! (umupo sa tabi ni cassie)
Cassie: (bumulong) okey lang! Kahit kandungin pa kita hanggang sa dulo eh
Vince: (patingin tingin sa bawat nadadaanan ng jeep)
Cassie: ngayon ka pa ba nakasakay ng jeep?
Vince: oo. Bat ikaw araw-araw?
Cassie: hindi/ pero madalas
Vince: bakit?diba hinahatid at sinusundo ka nga nong driver nyo?
Cassie: oo. Pero pag minsan umaalis ako ng wlang kasamang driver, nagji jeep ako
Vince: hindi ka pinapagalitan ng parents mo?
Cassie: hindi. Kasi madalas naman silang wala kaya hindi nila nalalaman. Tsaka kahit malaman nila wala din naman silang pakialam sakin eh
Vince: (hindi umimik)
Cassie: (inabot ang pamasahe sa isang pasahero) pakiabot po! Salamat
Vince: (napangiti sa ginawa ni cassie)
Cassie: (napatingin kay vince)
Vince: (inalis ang ngiti sa mukha)
Cassie: (kinilig)
(Sa may plaza)
Cassie: (bumibili ng kwek kwek)
Vince: ano yan?
Cassie: kwek kwek
Vince: masarap ba talaga yan?
Cassie: oo. (inabot ang kwek kwek kay vince) ito o tikmanmo!
VINCE: no. thanks
cassie: sige na kahit isa lang
Vince: ayoko nga
cassie: sige na
Vince: (kinuha ang kwek kwek at tinikman)
Cassie: oh ano masarap diba?
Vince: (tumango)oo masarap nga
cassie: sabi ko sayo eh
Vince: alam mo, kakaiba ka
Cassieh ano na naman yan pamumuri o panlalait?
Vince: parang ang dami mong alam
Cassie: sayo?
Vince: sa buhay. Yogn ganito. Akala ko kasi puro pagpapacute lang ang alam mo,di ko akalain mahilig ka pala sa mga simpleng bagay.tulad nong pagsakay ng jeep, pagkain nitong kwek kwek
Cassie: dami mo pang hindi alam tungkol sakin. Perokung gusto mo pa akong kilalanin, okey lang sakin
Vince: di na kelangan! Di naman ako interesado sayo! Oh don tayo! (lumakad)
Cassie: ouch! Ang prangka naman, dahan dahan lang naman! (sinundan si vince)
(sa may upuan sa plaza)
Vince; Casie: (umupo)
Vince: alam mo bang si Abby and first love ko?
Cassie: talaga?
Vince at siya na ata ang huling babaeng gusto ko mahalin habang buhay
Cassie: bakit? Wala ka bang planong..tumingin tingin sa tabi tabi?malay mo may mahanap kang mas higit pa sa kanya
vince: hindi ko lang siya girlfriend, bestfriend ko siya
cassie eh bat ka nalulungkot habang nagkukuwento ka tungkol s akanya?
Vince: kasi nakipag break siya sakin eh
Cassie: (natuwa) talaga?
Vince: (napatingn ke cassie)
Cassie: (inalis ang ngiti sa mukha) ahh ibig kong sabihin...nakakalungkot naman
vince: pero hindi ako susuko!
Cassie: babalikan mo siya
Vince: oo
Cassie: (bumulong) hindi rin kita susukuan
Vince: tara balik na tayo sa school (lumakad)
Cassie: grabe naman to oh kung makaalis agad parang walang kasama! (sinundan si vince) oy antayn mo ako!
(Sa school)
Vince; Cassie: (dumating)
Vince: sige punta na ako ng gym
Cassie: sige (paalis na sana)
Vince: ah cassie
Cassie: (natigilan; kinilig) oh my god! Sasabihin na niya saking labas tayo ulit next time (napalingon kay vince) yes?
Vince: sana...
cassie: ofcourse!
Vince: so naiintindihan mo ako?
Cassie: huh?
Vince: maiintindihan mo kung hihilingin ko na wag mo na sana ipagsabi o wala na sanang makaalam na magkasama tayo
cassie: (nawala ang ngiti sa mukha)o-oo ****
vnce: sige (umalis)
Cassie: puwede na rin yon! Secret lovers bah! (kinilig; umalis)
( Sa may editorial office)
Annie; Jorge: (nagulat) talaga? Namasyal kayong dalawa ni vince?
Cassie: shh wag kayo maingay! Ayaw ni vince ipagsabi ko
jorge: bakit?nahihiya siya?
Cassie: grabe ano naman kala mo sakin ketongin at ikahihiya niya? Ganda kong to? Eh naiintindihan ko naman siya shempre kaka break lang nila ni abby, ako pa lang ata nakakaalam so ayaw naman sigro niyang sabihan siyang playboy diba? Na kakaa break lang nila eh nakikipagdate na siya sa ibang babae
annie: date? So feeling mo talaga date yon?
Cassie: ehkaming dalawa lang ang magkasama eh. Diba ganun dinyon?
Jorge: cassie, paalala lang baka masyadong sumobra na yang paghanga mo kay vince, sa huli, masaktan ka
cassie: ngayon lang kami nagkalapit ni ViNCE. Kung iisipin ko yogn sakit, hindi ko to maeenjoy
annie: nag-aalala lang kami para sayo
cassie: masaya ako, wala kayong dapat ipag-alala
CHAPTER 3
(Sa mmay school gym)
Vince: (naglalakad galing sa locker room)
Janitor: (nagbabasa ng dyaryo)
Vince: (napansina ng picture ni abby sa front page)ah Manong pahiram namanng dyaryo sandali
Janitor: o ito (inabot ang dyaryo kay Vince)
Vince: (binasa ang headline)
ABBY VERA CRUZ AT JAY LEDESMA UMAMING NAGDI DATE!
Vince: (nagalit sa nabasa; dali daling umalis)
(Sa labas)
Vince: (galit na naglalakad)
Cassie: (hinabol si vince)Vince!Vince!oy sandali!
Vince: (huminto sa paglalakad at inis na napalingon kay Cassie) ano?
Cassie: (nagulat) galit ka?
Vince: what a stupid question!mukha ba akong natutuwa?
Cassie: galit ka nga!ano bang problema mo?hindi pa ba kayo nagbabalikan ni abby?
Vince: tingin mo ganito yong mood ko kung kami na ulit ni abby?mag-isip ka nga!
Cassie: pag andiyan ka kasi hindi ako nakakapag-isip ng matino!
Vince: (paalis na sana)
Cassie: ah vince!
Vince: (nasigawan si cassie) ano??!!
cassie: ano ba kasing problema mo?baka matulungan kita
Vince: personal ko tong problema, hindi ko kelangan ng kahit na anong tulong
Cassie: kahit galing sa isang kaibigan?
Vince: cassie, hindi porke sabay tayogn sumakay ng jeep, o napakain mo ako ng kwek kwek at may nasabi ako sayong mga bagay tungkol samin ni abby eh mag a assume ka ng close tayo.
Cassie: (hindi nakaimik)
Vince: kaya wag kang umarte na parang bestfriend kita! (umalis)
Cassie: (naiyak; pinahiran ang luha) eh hindi naman ktita type maging bestfriend nho! Maging jowa mo ang gusto ko!
(Sa bahay nina abby)
Vince: (bumaba ng kotse)
Abbyl Jay: (sweet na sweet na lumabas ng bahay)
Vince: (galit na nilapitan sina abby at jay) abby!
Abby: vince?
Vince: (sinuntok si Jay) **** ka!
Abby: Vince!
Jay: (susuntukin sana si Vince)
Abby: (inwat sina vince at jay) tama na!ano ba! Vince, ano bang problema mo?
Vince: ikaw!
Abby: baka nakakalimutan mo wala natayo
Vince: yon nga eh! Nong isang araw k alang nakipag break sakin tas ngayon nakikipag date ka na sa iba. Kung ano ano pa ang binibigay mong rason yon pala katign kati ka lang palitan ako
abby: sinampal si vince)That's exactly the reason why nakipag break ako sayo vince, dahil nasasakal na ako!nakakasakal yang pagmamahal mo ! Ngayon wal na tayo, wala ka ng pakialam pa sa buhay ko!Lets go Jay
Abby; Jay: (pumasok sa lobo ng bahay)
Vince: (nainis)
(Sa school)
Cassie; Anni;Jorge( naglalakad)
Annie: sana pagkatapos nongmga sinabi niya sayo magising ka na!
Cassie: ewan ko ba! Mahal na mahal ko talaga yong mokong na yon
jorge: iwasan mona lang siya
Cassie: parang di ko kaya!
Annie: kayanin mo, para din naman yan sayo
Cassie: ehh nasabi lang naman niya yon dahil galit siya
annie: pag hindi ba, maayos ba ang pakikitungo niya sayo?hindi rin diba?
Cassie: (hindi umimik)
Benjo; Mike;Anton: (naglalakad kasalubiong sina cassie)
Mike: bat kaya *** sa practice ngayon si vince?
Anton: oo nga eh nakakapagtaka, hindi naman umaabsent sa practice yon
Bnejo: tinaawagan ko nga, hindi naman sumasagot
Casie: (narinig ang usapan nina benjo) Benjo!
Benjo: (napalingon kay cassie) oh bakit?
Cassie: hindi nagpractice si vince?
Benjo: narinig mo pala eh nagtanong ka pa
Cassie: nasan siya? Kanina kasi nakita ko siyang galit na galit
Benjo: hindi namin alam. Okey diba dapat alam mo stalker ka niya eh (natawa; umalis)
Mike; Anton: (umalis)
cassie: (nag-alala) baka kung anong ngayari ke vince
Annie: eh ano naman ngayon sayo?pabayan mo na siya
cassie: mamaya na ako uuwi
Jorge? Ano?
Cassie: sige na, mauna na kayo (umalis)
aNNIE: hoy cassandra!
Jorge: pa check up natin yang si cassie
annie: sinabi mo pa. Ang tindi na ng tama ke vince eh
(Gabi)
(Sa labas ng gym)
Cassie: (nakaupo)
Security guard: (lumapit)cassie!
Cassie: ogh Manong
Security guard: anong ginagawa mo dito?gabi na ah
cassie: eh manong guard hindi nyo ba tlaga nakita si vince?
Security guard: hindi talaga. Siya ba ang hinihintay mo?
Cassie: opo
Security guard: eh bat dito mo siya hinihintay? Gabi na ah.wala namang practice ang varsity team ng gabi, uwuwi ka na. Hindi na yan pupunta dito.
Cassie: sige po
Security guard: (umalis)
cassie: nasan na kaya siya?
(Sa labs ng school)
vINCE: (nakainom; nakikipagtalo sa guard)sige na guard papasukin nyo na ako
Guard: vince, gabi na!nakainom ka pa oh!alam mo bang bawal pumasok sa school ang lasing?
Vince: wala na ngang pasok diba?
Guard: kahit na.
Cassie: (dumating) vince
Vince: oh cassie
Cassie: nakainom ka ba?
Vince: hindi
Cassie: vince umalis na tayo. Baka isumbong ka pa n mga guards na nagpumilit kang pumasok sa school ng lasing ma suspend ka pa
Vince: gusto ko lang pumunta sa gym, maglalakabas lang ako ng sama ng loob
Cassie: wag dito. Tara na! (hinila si vince) tara na!
(Sa isang park)
Vince; Cassie: (dmating)
Cassie: oh maglaabs ka na ng sama ng loob mo!
Vince: ano? Papano?
Cassie: papano ka ba maglabas ng sama ng loob?gusto mo ba ng may namumura?oh ito ako, murahin mo ako!kay abby ka galit diba?oh umaginen mo ako si abby
Vince: (natawa; napailing)
Cassie: oo na! Mas maganda na siya sakin! Hirap lang imagenin na ako, siya
Vince: (napailing; tumalikod) baliw ka talaga!
Cassie: baliw sayo!
Vince: (napalingon) ano?
Cassie: wala
Vince: (umupo sa damuhan) may iba na siyang dini date
Cassie: (umupo sa tabi ni vince) confirmed?
Vince:harap harapan pa nya mismong sinasabi sakin. Akala ko yon na pinakamasakit, malamang may mahal na siyang iba, meron pa pala.
Cassie: ano?
Vince: ang sabihin niyang nasasakal siya sa pagmamahal ko
Cassie: di nga?
Vince: kelan ba tama ang pagmamahal?pag kulang ang binibigay mo, hindi sapat. Pag sobra naman, nakaksakal
Cassie: di dapat swabe lang, yong cool lang
vince: ano namng klaseng pagmamahal yon?
Cassie: ewan ko rin. Ako ** kasi sobrang magmahal. Binibigay lahat, ginagawa lahat.naniniwala kasi ako na dapat tinotodo mo, para sa huli wala kang pagsisishan, na sana may nagawa ka pata don sa taong mahal mo
Vince: eh di ang suwerte pala ng magigng boyfriend mo
Cassie: baka gusto mo mag apply?
Vince; over qualified ata ako
Cassie: (natawa; hinampas si vince) okey ;lang! Mataas naman standard ko!
Vince: (natawa)kulit mo talaga
Cassie: wag ka mag-alala makakahanap ka rin ng higit pa sa kanya, malay mo andiyan alng siya sa tabi mo...ahh sa tabi tabi
Vince: (napatingin ke cassie)
Cassie: wag mo akong tingnan ng ganyan naco conscious ako (kinilig)
Vince: wala na ata akong ibang mamahalin pa ng higit pa sa pagmamahal ko kay abby
cassie: naku naman! Kung magsalita ka parang si abby lang ang anak ng diyos! Guwapo ka, sikay ka sa school, maporma, matalino ka naman, mayaman (bumulong) di ka nga lang akin
Vince: ma sinasabi ka pa?
Cassie: ibig ko lang sabihin wag lang yong magaganda mong mata ang buksan mo, pati na rin yang puso mo, para mas makita mo may iba pang mundo, na may iba pang puwedeng magmahal sayo...ako
Vince: anong ikaw>
Cassie: ahhh ako..andito ako para sayo
vince: thank you
Cassie: (tumayo) oh tara na! Gabi na! (umalis)
Cassie: (nagsalita mag-isa) ayan, iniiwan mo naman akong nag-iisa, namimihasa ka na. Buti na lang mahal kita. Lagi ka na lang nang-iiwan, pero ako, hindi kita iiwan
vince: (napalingon) o cassie tara na! Bilis!
Cassie: (tuamyo) sandali lang naman! (sumunod ke vince)
(Sa may malapit sa parking lot)
Vince; Cassie: (naglalakad)
2 bata: (lumapit) ate cassie!ate cassie!
Cassie:O Marie, Claring..sandali (may kinuha sa bag at inabot ang pera sa dalawang bata)oh ito pambili ng pagkain
Marie; Claring: salamat po ate
cassie: walang anuman
Marie: ate, sino yang pogi mong kasama?
Claring: boypren mo te?
Cassie: (natawa) ay hindi! (bumulong sa mga bata) pero malapit na. Shhh!!!
Claring: pero bagay kayo
vince: (natawa; napailing)
cassie: itong mga batang talaga to oo ang a honest!o sige na bumili na kayo ng makakain don. Ingat kayo
Marie; Claring: bye ate! Bye pogi! (umalis)
vince: dati ka bang batang kalye?
Cassie: ano?hindi. Bakit?
Vince: wala lang. Mahilig ka mag jeep. Kumakain ka ng street foods, mahilig ka tumambay dito sa park, may mga kaibigan kang street children.
Cassie: madalas kasi ako dito. Pag nababato ako sa bahay dito ako tumatambay. Pag nakikita ko kasi sila don ko naramdaman masuwerte pa rin pala ako
vince: masuwerte ka naman talaga ah!nakakapag-aral ka sa isang magandang eskwelahan, nakakakain ka ng tatlong beses o higit pa sa isang araw, magagandang mga gamit mo, masayahin kang tao, bakit kung makapagsalita ka parang ang daming kulang sa buhay mo?
Cassie: hindi lang naman materyal na bagay ang nakakakumpleto sa isang tao eh
Vince: bakit?ano ba sa tingin mo ang nakakakumpleto sa isang tao?
Cassie; love!
Vince: (natawa) ang baduy mo!
Cassie: lahat naman ng na i inlove baduy! Parang ikaw, masyado kang patay na patay don sa mestisa mong girlfrend, di mo na tuloy napapansin may tao ring patay na patay sayo
vince: kugn ako sa taong yon wag na siyang umasang mamahalin ko siya, dahil pagkatapos ng ngyari samin ni abby hindi ko alam kung kaya ko pang magmahal ulit (umals)
Cassie: sana jackpot ka na lang sa lotto Vince puwedeng mapanalunan. Kung sa unang pusta, olats..pupustahan kita ng pupustahan hanggang sa mapanalunan kita. (sinundan si Vince)
(Isang araw)
Sa school
(Nagpa practice ang mga varsity players pero halatang walang gana si Vince)
CoacH Neil: Vince, ano bang nangyayari sayo?ilang araw ka ng ganyan ah!
Vince: nothing coach
Coach Neil: nothing? Eh hindi ka naman dating ganyan ah!may problema ka ba?
Vince: ah coach puwede bang wag muna ako magpractice today?parang..masama kasi ang pakiramdam ko eh
Coach Neil: o sige
Vince: thanks coach! (umalis)
(Sa canteen)
Vince: (kumakain)
Cassie: (lumapit) good morning vince!!!
Vince: o cassie
Cassie: (umupo)
Vince: gusto ko sana mapag-isa
Cassie: eh di imaginen mo naalng wala ako dito
Vince: (napangiti; napailing)
cassie: napangiti rin kita
Teacher: (lumapit) Vincent!
Vince: (napalingon)Maam bakit po?
Teacher: napapansin ko bumaba grades mo lately sa geometry, pag tuluyan kang bumagsak sa subject na yon baka maapektuhan ang pag graduate mo. Malapit na finals. Ayusin mo yan
Vince: yes maam
Teacher: (umalis)
Vince: ano ba yan! Sunod sunod namang kamalasan to oh!
Cassie: nope. Masuwerte ka pa rin
vince: saan?
Cassie: hindi saan, kanino?
Vince: kanino?
Cassie: sakin! Kanino pa ba
vince: bakit?
Cassie: puwede kitang turuan sa geometry. Private tutor ba!
Vince: wag na, nakakahiya!
Cassie: wag ka na mahiya!gusto ko din naman to eh. Sige na, magkaibigan naman tayo diba?
Vince: sige na nga. Kelan ka puede?
Cassie: kahit kelan mo gusto, puwede ako
Vince: sa weekend na lang. Sa bahay nami kung okey lang sayo
cassie: sa bahay nyo?
Vince: oo. Pero kung di ka kumportable...
cassie: ay hindi! Okey lang! (bumulong) sobra pa sa okey, chance ko na to
(Isang araw)
sa bahay nina Vince)
Cassie; Katulong: (pumasok)
Katulong: o halika pasok ka! Andon siya sa pool, naliligo
cassie: ho?
(sa may pool side)
Cassie; katulong: (dumating)
katulong: vince, may bisita ka! Sige iha maghahanda lang ako ng meryenda
cassie: sige po
Katulong: (umalis)
Vince: (Umahon sa pool naka short lang at walang suot na tshirt)
cassie: (napanganga ng makita si vince) diyos ko anong magandang bagay ba ang nagawa ko sa araw na to at sinuwerte ako ng ganito
Vince: (papalapit lay cassie)
cassie: sus ko papalapit na siya ( humawak sa chair) parang mahihimatay ako..
Vince: (lumapit ke cassie)cassie ang aga mo ata?
Cassie: huh?
Vince: sabi ko bat ang aga mo? Diba 10am pa usapan natin, eh alas otso y medya pa lang ah
cassie: ahh maaga din kasi akong nagising eh, wala naman akong magawa sa bahay kaya pumunta na lang ako dito
vince: ganun ba? Eh hindi pa ako nakakapag breakfast eh. Ikaw, nakapagbreakfast ka na ba?
Cassie: kanin na lang
vince: bakit?
Cassie: (bumulong) katawan mo pa lang ulam na eh
Vince: ano?
Cassie: ahh kanin tsaka kahit anong ulam puwede
Vince: okey. Sige sandali magbibihis muna ako
cassie: wag na!
Vince: huh?
Cassie: ahh sabi ko wag mo masyado bagalan ang pagbihis gutom na ako eh
vince: okey. (pumasok sa loob ng bahay)
Cassie: sus ko tao pa ba togn si vince kahit wlang pang itaas ang guwapo pa rin.eh kung ganyan ang makikita mo tuwing umaga, wish ko lang wag na gumabi (pumasok sa loob ng bahay)
(Sa may sala)
Cassie: (tinitingnan ang mga pictures at mga medals at trophies na nasa isang table)
Vince: (lumapit) o cassie handa na ang breakfast
cassie: dami naman medals at awards dito
vince: sa mga kapatid ko yan
cassie: ni isa wala ka?
Vince: wala
Cassie: eh san na yong mga trophies mo pag nagiging MVP ka sa mga games nyo?
Vince: nasa room ko
cassie: bat di mo dinisplay dito?
Vince: lahat ng mga nakikita mo diyan yan yogn mga medals at trophies na andiyan mula sa pagiging first honor, Validictorian, Magna cum laude, sa mga napanalunan nila sa mga quiz bees, eh yong akin MVP ng isang basketball game?
Cassie: oh achievement din yon huh!
Vince: hindi, para sa daddy ko
cassie: kanya kanya naman ng talent eh. Maaring ibat ibang achivements pero ganun pa rin yon.
Daddy Nelson: (pababa ng hagdan)
Cassie: oh good morning po sir
Daddy Nelson: good morning
Vince: dad si cassie, kaklase ko may project lang kaming gagawin.
Daddy Nelson” okey. Oh vincent mag-aral kang mabuti, wag puro videogames at pagba basketball yang inaatupag mo
vince: yes dad
Daddy Nelson: (umalis)
Vince: tara, breakfast na tayo (umalis)
Cassie: yes mahal! Chos! (kinikilig na sinundan si vince)
(Pagkatapos nilang mag breakfast)
(sa may table malapit sa pool)
Cassie: oh ito yong formula na gagamitin mo
vince: one sample nga
cassie: o sige tapos may mga papa solve ako sayo tingann natin kung may natutunan ka
Vince: okey (halatang walng gana)
cassie: okey ka lang?
Vince: oo naman. Bakit mo naitanong?
Cassie: affected ka pa rin ba sa sinabi ng daddy mo?
Vince: he always thinks Im a failure. Porke hindi ako candidate for valedectorian, iniisip niya wala akong kwenta
cassie: wag ka masyado magpapa pressure don.
Vince: (hindi umimik)
(kInahapunan)
Vince; Cassie: (Palabas ng bahay)
Vince: thank you cassie huh?
Cassie: okey lang yon
Vince: hatid na kita
cassie: sure!
Daddy Nelson: (lumapit) Vince!
Vince; cassie: (napalingon)
Vince: bakit po dad?
Daddy Nelson: (pinakita ang card ni vince) wala ka bang balak ipakita sakin to?
Vince: dad kasi...
Daddy Nelson: (galit) kahit kailan talaga wala ka ng ibang inakyat sa bahay na to kundi puro kahihiyan. Vincent, do something on this! Wag mo akong bigyan ng basura! (umalis)
Cassie: grabe!
Vince: (nainis; umalis)
Cassie: (tinapik ang balikat ni vince) Vince!
Vince: lets go! (umalis)
Cassie: (sinundan si vince)
(Sa labas ng bahay)
Vince: (inis na naglalakad)
cassie: hayy ito na naman kami! (sinunandan si vince)ganyan ka ba talaga pag galit? Bilis maglakad?
Vince: eh di wag mo akong sundan
Cassie: follow your dream nga diba?
Vince: (patuloy sa paglalakad)
cassie: (hinarang si vince) teka nga, hindi naman habang buhay kaya mong takbuhan na lang ang mga problema mo
Vince: eh anong gusto mong gawin ko? Harapin sio daddy?ipamukha sa kanya kung gaano ako kabobo?
Cassie: ipa realize mo sa kanya na kaya mo ding maging magaling kagay ng mga kapatid mo. Magsumikap ka para maiba ang pagtingin ng dadddy mo sayo
vince: hindi mo kilala si daddy, kahit magdala pa ako ng isang dosenang tropeo sa bahay, failure pa rin ako sa paningin niya. Hindi pa rin nya ako kayang mahalin
cassie: dahil yon ang iniisip mo
Vince: dahil yon ang naramdaman ko. Si Abby nga sumuko din sakin. Dont you see mahirap akong mahalin (lumakad)
Cassie: alam ko, matagal na
Vince: (natigilan)
Cassie: dahil din rin ako nadalian na mahalin ka..pero di ako sumuko, di ako susuko
Vince: kalimutan mo na yang nararamdaman mo, masasaktan lang kita
Cassie: hindi ko kasi alam pano ka kalimutan , ang alam ko lang mahalin ka
Vince: Cassie hindi ko alam kung kaya ko pang magmahal, ni hindi nga ako sigurado kung worth it pa akong mahalin
Cassie: oo naman! Kung hindi mo na alam, tutulungan kita pano magmahal ulit
Vince: magigng unfair lang ako sayo, dahil hindi ko alam kung kaya kong kalimutan si abby
Cassie: maghihintay ako...
Vince: cassie ano ba! Maawa ka nga sa sarili mo!
Cassie: naawa ka ba sa sarili mo nang habul habulin mo si abby bumalik lang siya sayo?
Vince: (hindi umimik) masasaktan lang kita
Cassie: magiging insensitive ako para wag maramdaman ang sakit, pag may nasasabi kang di ka aya aya sa pandinig magbibingi bingihan ako, pag may nakikita akong makakasakit sakin magbubulag bulagan ako.
Vince: baliw ka na talaga!
Cassie: yon ba ang tawag mo sa mga taong mahal ka?sa taong kayang gawin lahat para sayo? Baliw nga siguro ako, kasi mahal na mahal kita (naiyak)
Vince: (naawa kay cassie; niyakap si cassie)
Cassie: (niyakap si vince)
CHAPTER 4
(Isang araw)
(Sa may gym..nAGpa praktis ang mga varsity players)
Cassie: (nanonood; nagdala ng banner ni vince sabay nagchi cheer) Go Vince!!
Anie: cassie, bat may dala kang banner ni vince eh wala nmang game ah, nagpa practice lang sila oh!
Cassie: eh *** malaman niyang supportive ako
jorge: ay sa laki ba naman ng banner mo, malalaman niya talaga
annie: eh mag-ano na ba kayo niyang si vince?
Cassie: paano ba ide describe yong klase ng relationship na alam niyang mahal mo siya, pero siya...magpapahilom pa muna ng sugat, pero pag-aaralan niyang mahalin ka?
JoRGE: panakip butas!
Cassie: wow friend touch naman ako don!
Annie: may point si Jorge
Casssie: hindi ba talaga kayo natutuwa para sakin?
Annie: kung tutuong mahal ka ni vince matutuwa kami
Cassie: eh alam nyo naman kaka break pa lang nila ni abby, shempre brokenhearted pa siya, pero gagaling din siya, matutoto ulit siyang magmahal ng iba
Ajorge: at umaasa kang ikaw yon?
Cassie: wala namang masamang umasa diba? Ngayon pa ba ako susuko kung kelan bot kamay ko na lang siya?
Annie; Jorge: (hindi umimik)
(Sa Dug out)
Benjo: okey din yong die hard fan mo Vince huh may banner pa talagang dala! (natawa)
Mike: fan nga diba?
(Tawanan)
Vince: hayaan nyo na lang yon
Anton: bah! Kaibigan mo na ba yon?
Vince: okey lang. Naging tutor ko siya sa geometry mukhang okey naman siya
Bnejo: baka mamaya niyan pare madevelop ka huh! (natawa) baka bumaba taste mo bigla, patulan mo si cassie
(Tawanan)
Mike: pero alam mo pare piwede mo namang gamtin yang pagka obsssesed sayo ni cassie para makalimutan mo si abby
Vince: ano?
Mike: alam mo ba yong kasabihan na to forget someone is to find somebody else.?
Benjo: ang corny mo!
Mike: o diba pinagpalit ka ni abby sa iba?patunayan mo rin sa kanya na kayang kaya mo siyang palitan
Benjo:Naku pare wag ka makikinig diyan kay Mike, imbes magselos si abby baka pagtawanan ka pa! Kung maghahanap ka lang din ng iba yong ka level lang niya sa ganda at sikat! Wag naman si cassie pare
Mike: may itsura naman yong si cassie huh not to mention patay na patay kay vince, di naman niya seseryosohin eh..tsaka palay na yong lumalapit sa manok eh. Tukain mo na pare!
Vince: (napaisip)
(Sa may canteen)
Vince; Benjo; Mike; anton: (dumating)
Cassie: (nilapitan si vince) Vince!
Benjo: oh pare don na muna kami, andiyan na ang palay (natawa)
Benjo; anton;Mike: (nagtatawanang umupo sa isang table)
Cassie: (inabot ang pagkain kay vince) oh ito binilhan na kita ng meryenda para di ka na pumila diyan
Vince: para sakin to?
Cassie: oo. Paborito mo yan diba?
Vince: (tinangggap ang pagkain) salamat. Sige punta na muna ako don kina benjo
Cassie: okey
Vince: (Umalis)
Cassie: (kinilig)
(Sa bahay nina cassie)
Cassie: (may bitbit na papel na may nakasualt na tel number; lumapit sa phone pero nagdadalawang isip kung tatawag siya)
yay elisa: (lumapit) oh cassie
Cassie: yaya!
Yaya Elisa: may tatawagan ka ba?
Cassie: ehhh
Yaya Elisa: si vince bah?
Cassie: gusto ko lang siyang kumustahin
Yaya Elisa: diba kayo nagkita kanina sa school?
Cassie: nagkita
Yaya Elisa: oh eh bat gusto mo pa siyang kamustahin?
Cassie: ehh gusto ko mag goodnight sa kanya eh
Yaya Elisa: bat di mo na lang siya itext?
Casie: eh *** pa nga po akong number niya eh. Nauna pa nga po yogn pagtatapat ko sa kanya ng feelings ko kesa sa sa paghingi ng number niya.
Yaya elisa: ano? Sinabi mo sa kanyang gusto mo siya?
Cassie: opo
yaya elisa: ikaw talagang bata ka! Bat mo ginawa yon?
Cassie: bakit po hindi?
Yaya elisa: eh ikaw mismo ang nagsabi na may girlfriend yon
cassie: eh hiwalay na naman po sila eh
Yaya elisa: eh gusto ka ba niya?
Cassie: madedevelop din siya sakin yayaa
Yaya Elisa: pano ka nakakasiguro?
Cassie: sa ganda naman at sa bait kong to?
Yaya elisa: cassandra, baka sa huli masaktan ka lang huh?wag mong ibigay lahat, baka *** ng matira sayo anak. (Umalis)
Cassie: (dali daling nag dial)
vince: (sa kabilang linya) hello
Cassiehindi nakaimik)
vINCE: hello, sino to?
Cassie: (kinikilig habang pinapakinngan ang boses ni vince)
Vince: hello? (binagsak ang phone)
cASSIE: aray ko naman!hyy Vince ngayong abot kamay na kita gagawin ko ang lahat para sayo, para makita mo pupuwede mo rin akong mahalin.at pag minahal mo na ako hindi ka magsisisi..sabehhhhh (kinikilig)
(Isang araw)
(sA CLAssroom)
Benjo; Mike; Anton: (pumasok)
Casie: (napalingon; nagtaka ng wala si vince) ah benjo, bat di nyo kasama si vince?
Benjo: maysakit po ang mahal na hari, aming Reyna
Cassie: huh?
Benjo: ano ba namang klaseng fan ka, di mo alam yon?
Cassie: (nag-aalala)
(pagktapos ng klase)
Cassie: (nagmamadaling inaayos ang mga gamit)
Annie: o cassie saan ka pupunta?
Cassie: pupuntahan ko si vince..maysakti siya diba?
Jorge: diba may meeting ka pa with the drama club
Cassie: subukan ko na lang humabol
Jorge: cassie, nilalagnat lang yong si vince.kung mag-alala ka naman parang naghihingalong pasyente na siya don sa ICU
Cassie: kahti na, kailngan niya ako don
Jorge: cassie hindi ka niya yaya at lalong hindi ka doktor
Cassie: yaya at doktor lang ba ang puwedeng mag-alaga ng taong maysakit? Hindi ba puwede yong taong nagmamahal?
Annie; Jorge: (nagkatinginan; sabay napailing)
Cassie: sige guys I have to go! (umalis)
(SA bahay nina vince)
Cassie: (nagdo doorbell)
Katulong 2: (binuksan ang gate)
Cassie: good morning po
Katulong: oh sinong hinahanap mo?
Cassie: ahh andiyan po ba si vince?
Katulong 2: maysakit, nagpapahinga siya
Cassie: ahh ganun po ba
Katulong 1: (lumapit) cassie!
Cassie: ay goodmorning po
Katulong 1: o halika pasok ka
Cassie: ahhh nagpapahinga daw po si vince eh
Katulong 1: kagagaling ko lang sa room nya nanonood lang siya ng tv. Halika pasokka
Cassie: katulong: (pumasok)
Katulong 2: itsura nito! Mas maganda pa din si abby kesa sayo nho!
(Sa loob ng room ni vince)
Vince: (nakaupo sa bed at nanonood ng tv)
Katulong 1: (kumatok)
Vince: come in!
Katulong 1: (binuksna ang pinto) vnce, may bisita ka
Vince: sino? Si abby?
Cassie: (lumapit) hi vince!
Vince: o cassie, *** pala
Katulong 1: maiwan ko muna kayo (Umalis)
Vince: o bat andiyan ka? Pasok ka
Cassie: (bumulong) eh sa buhay mo puwede pumasok?
Vince: may sinasabi ka?
Cassie: ahh ito may dala akong prutas para sayo? (nilagay ang prutas sa side table ni vince; nalungkot ng makita ang picture ni abby at vince sa side table niya)
Vince: paano mo nalamang maysakit ako?
Cassie: kina benjo
Vince: ahh okey
Cassie: kumusta ka na?okeyka na ba?
Vince: medyo masakita lan katawan ko
Cassie: uminom ka na ba ng gamot mo?
Vince: iinom pa lang
Cassie: ito ba? Sandali (kiniha ang gamot sa table at pinainom ng gamot si vince)
Vince: salamat
Cassie: (nilagay ang baso s tabe at tininingnan si vince) sana gamot na lang ako para sa sakit sa puso
Vince: bakit naman?
Cassie: para mapagaling kita
Vince: (natwa) puro ka talaga kalokohan..pero cassie seryoso thanks for being here, thanks for the company
Cassie: wlang anuman. Basta para sayo!oh tama na yang panonood mo ng tv, nakaka stress yan! Pagkatapos mong uminom ng gamot dapat nagpapahinga ka. (inoff ang tv) sige na pahinga ka na
Vince: okey. (humiga) eh ikaw?
Cassie: dito lang ako, babantayan kita
Vince: mabo bore ka lang, manood ka na lang muna ng tv
Cassie: (bumulong) *** na alng papanoorin ko
Vince: ano?
Cassie: ah wa-wala. Sabi ko magpahinga ka muna
Vince: sabi mo ako na lang papanoorin mo eh (napangiti sabay pikit ng mata)
Cassie: )biglang nahiya) naku! Narinig pala niya yon (napatingin sa mga magazines na andon; may mga magazines kung saan cover girl si abby; nalungkot ng makita ang mga yon) sana pagdatign ng panahon pictures ko naman ang tinitingnan mo vince.,
(Gabi)
Cassie: (nakatulog sa tabi ng bed ni vince)
Vince: (nagising; napangiti ng makita si cassie) salamat at nandiyan ka cassie..
Cassie: (nagising) oh! Anong oras na?
Vince: gabi na
Cassie: (napatingin sa relo) alas syete na pala. (tumayo) uwi na ako
Vince: (tumayo) hatid na kita sa labas
Cassie: wag na, mabinat ka pa
Vince: hindi..hatid na kita
(Lumabas ng room)
(Sa labas)
Vince: cassie: (pababa ng hagdan)
Mommy lucy; AbbyDuamting; nagulat ng makitang pababa sina vinceat cassie)
Mommy Lucy: vicne, anong ginagawa nyo sa kuwarto mo?
Vince: ma relax okey? Wala kaming ginagawang masama ni cassie, binantayan lang niya ako habang nagpapahinga
cassie: good everning po
mommy Lucy: nakakahiya naman kay abby naabutan pa niya kayo ganyan
abby: its okey tita, wala na rin namn kami ni vince. Oh vince hindi mo ba siya papakilala samin? Girlfriend mo ba siya?
Vince: huh? Ahh..oo si cassie girlfriend ko.
Cassie: (gulat na napatingin ke vince)
vince: cassie, ang mommy ko at si...abby
cassie: hi po!
Mommy lucy: (inirapan si cassie)
Abby: hi cassie, nice meetign you (nagbeso kay cassie)
cassie: nice meetign you too
Mommy Lucy: ininvite ko si abby to have dinner with us nami miss ko na rin siya
Vince: dito ka na rin mag dinner cassie
Mommy Lucy: good for 3 people lang pinaluto ko kay Manang
vince: pdagdagan ko. Manang!
Cassie: ahh vince, wag na, kelangan ko na ring umuwi..salaamt na lang ..sige po mauna na ako...sige po Ms abby
Vince: hatid ko lang po sa labas si cassie
Mommy Lucy: sige balik ka agad
Vince; Cassie: (umalis)
(Sa labas)
Vince; cassie: (palabas ng gate)
Vince: andiyan ba driver mo?
Cassie: oo..ahh vince
Vince: yes?
Cassie: yong...yong sinabi mo kanina..yong..
vince: girlfriend na kita?
Cassie: oo. Tutuo ba yon?
Vince: oo bakit? Ayaw mo?
Cassie: gusto! Ahh..gusto naman..
Vince: okey
Cassie: ahh.. (Inabot ang cellhphone)baka gusto mo isave number mo?
Vince: oo naman! (sinave ang number niya sa phone ni cassie) oh ito! (ibinalik ang phone kay cassie)
cassie: sandali! (dinial ang number ni vince) pagkabalik mo sa room mo save mo number ko huh?
Vince: okey
(lumabs sila)
Cassie: sige uwi na ako
Vince: sige, salamat uli
Cassie: (papasok na sana sa sasakyan; napalingon kay vince; dali dali niyang nilapitan si vince at hinalikan sa pisngi) goodnight!
Vince: (nagulat)
cassie: alam ko nahihiya ka lang mag reuqest kaya ayan para di ka na mahirapan
Vince: (natwa)
Cassie: sige bye (dali daling pumasok sa van; napatili sa saya)
vince: (narinig ang tili ni casie; napailing; pumasok sa loob ng baahay)
CHAPTER 5
(Sa room ni Vince)
Vince: (pumasokl tiningnan ang phone may 10 messages siya galing kay cassie)
(Sa bahay nina cassie)
(sa room niya)
Cassie: (nakaupo) naku bat di kaya nagre reply si vince? Wala kaya siyang load? Mapasahan kaya? Naku baka mainsulto naman siya... (nang tumunog ang cellphone dali dali niya itong tiningnanl na excite ng makitang galing kay vince ang message..ang message ay....)
Goodnight..
Cassie: haba naman ng reply...hiningal naman ako kakabasa..Vince naman oh!
(Isang araw)
(Sa school gym)
Benjo: talaga pare girlfriend mo na yang fan mo?
Vince: okey naman siya eh. Mahal na mahal naman niya ako
Mike: eh ikaw, mahal mo ba siya?
Benjo: eh baka nga ni hindi mo siya gusto eh
Vince: kahit naman papano natutulungan niya akong makalimutan si abby
Anton: eh bakit mo ba talaga siya syinota? Dahil nagugustuhan mo na siya o dahil siya yong nandiyan at nagagamit ko siya para makalimutan mo si abby?
Vince: (hindi nakaimik)
(Sa kinaroroonan nina cassie, abby at Jorge)
Cassie; Anni; Jorge: (naglalakad)
Cassie: ops!ops! Dahan dahan huh matatapakan hair ko! Ang haba lang!
Jorge: (binatukan si cassie) nagmamaganda ka!
Cassie: kelangan talaga may batok?
Annie: cassie, ito paalala lang hindi naman matatawag na relasyon yon kung isa lang yong nagmamahal at nagbibigay..diba it takes two to tango?
Cassie: ehh mahal naman ako ni vince.
Jorge: sabeh niya?
Cassie: hindi...hindi pa..pero naramdaman ko..malapit na..baka mamaya lang!
Annie: papano mo naramdaman?
Cassie: masaya naman siya pag magkasama kami, nagr reply naman siya pag nagte text ako
Jorge: ilang texts ba pinapadala mo sa kanya sa isang araw?
Cassie: sampu...minan 20 times
Jorge: 20 times?? wala na bang ibang taong nakasave diyan sa phone mo te?
Annie: o ilang beses siyang nagre reply?
Cassie: da-dalawa o tatlo. Eh diba ganun naman talaga ang mga lalake hindi naman sila ma text na tao?
Jorge: friend, hindi naman sa ayaw ka namin ni annie na sumaya, siyempre gusto namin yon. Pero mas ayaw naming m masaktan ka.
Cassie: bakit ganun hindi ba kayo naniniwalang puwede din akong mahalin ni vince? Hindi ba puwedeng maging masaya na lang kayo for me? (umalis)
Annie: cassie!
(sa may canteen)
Vince; Cassie: (kumakain)
Vince: hindi mo yata kasama sina annie at Jorge ngayon?
Cassie: (pinagbabalat ng orange si vince) ah nasa Editorial sila
Vince: may tampuhan ba kayo?
Cassie: wala/ o kain ka na. (inabot ang orange kay Vince)ay nga pala may ibibigay ako sayo
Vince: ano yon?
Cassie: (inabot ang shirt kay vince na may naka imprintang kalahating puso)chadan! Para sayo yan
Vince: (tinangggap ang shirt) salamat...eh nasan kalahati nito?
Cassie: (pinakita anf shirt niya na naka imprinta ang kalahating korte ng puso) nasa akin! Cute nho?
Vincenapatango lang).o tara na mali late na tayo (tumayo)
Cassie: (kinuha ang mga balat nang mga pinagkainan nila pati tissue)
Vince: anong ginagawa mo? Nagco community service ka ba?
Cassie: hindi. Innipon ko lang lahat ng mga memories natign dalawa
Vince: talaga?
Cassie: oo. Kasi tini treasure ko bawta minuto, bawat oras at bawat oras na kasama kita. O tara na!
Vince: (napangiti sa sinabi ni cassie)
(Simula noon lagi ng magkasama sian cassie at vince. Namamasyal silang magkasama pati sa school...patuloy pa din pagtu tutor ni cassie kay vince)
(sa bahay nina cassie)
Cassie; Vince: (pumasok)
Cassie: maupo ka muna
Vince: ang mommy't daddy mo nasaan?
Cassie: nasa singapore ata sila o malamang nasa malaysia sila ngayon
vince: hindi ka sigurado?
Cassie: huling beses ko kasi sila nakausap nasa singapore daw sila pero pupunta daw sila ng malaysia for a business trip din
Vince: palagi silang wala?
Cassie: (tumango)oo
vince: okey lang sayo?
Cassie: wala na rin naman akong magagawa. Buti ka pa nga kahot nasesermonan ka ng daddy mo at least nakikita mo siya, nakakasama. Pero ako suwerte na sa isang buwan eh napeperme sila dito ng isang linggo.
Vince: (nalungkot para kay cassie)
cassie: pero sus okey lang yon!teka sandali may kukunin lang ako (umakyat papunta sa room niya)
Vince: (tinitingnan ang pictures na nasa sala)
Yaya Elisa: (lumpait) ikaw pala si vince.
Vince: (napalingon) good evening po
Yaya Elisa: ako ang yaya ni cassie. Pero parang anak ko na rn siya kong ituring ko. Kulang na lang iluwal ko siya. Ganun ko siya kamahal. Palagi ka niyang kinukuwento sakin at alam ko kung gaano ka nina kamahal. Pero alam ko rin may mahal kang iba. Si cassie man alam yon. Alam ko sa loob niya nasasaktan siya pero di niya pinapakita sayo kasi natatakot siyang mawala ka. Isa lang ang hiling ko sayo vince wag mo sanang saktan si cassie. Mabait siyang bata. Kung talaga hindi mo siya kayang mahalin, wag mo na siyang paasahin. Pero kung gusto mo talagang pag-aralang mahalin siya sana ginagawa mo (umalis)
Vince: (napayuko)
cassie: (lumapit) oh okey ka lang?
Vince: oo
Cassie: o ito (inabot ang mala scrap book kay vince)
Vince: ano to?
Cassie: buksan mo
Vince: (nang binusak niya nandonn lahat ng mga pictures niya during games at awarding ceremonies kung saan siya ang MVP) wow! Ginawa mo to?
Cassie: oo. Pag may mga games ka pini piktyuran kita.iniipon ko. Tas sabi ko pag naging close nma tayo ibibigay ko yan sayo
Vince: para madevelop ako (natawa)
Cassie: (natawa)
vince: thanks cassie
cassie: gusto ko rin paalala sayo na hindi ka failure. Hindi mo kelangan maging valedictorian para masabing may na aachieve ka. Pag tinitingnan mo yan yan mag paalala sayo na may ibubuga ka.
Vince: alam mo bang ikaw lang ang nagmahal sakin ng ganito?diba sabi ko nga baliw ka kasi nagmahal ka ng tulaf ko kasi mahirap ako mahalin. Hindi madalimg kalimutan samin ni abby kasi malalim yong pinagsamahan namin sobra ko siyang minahal, sobra din akong nasaktan. Basag na basag ako nong iniwan niya ako at ipagpalit sa iba.
Cassie: tutulungan kitang mabuo ulit. Unti unti natin bubuuin ang mga nabasag, ayusin ang kung anuman ang nasira, at hilumin yogn mga sugat. Hindi magigign madali pero hindi din masama kung susubukan natin ..basta andito lang ako
Vince: (niyakap si cassie)
Cassie: (napangiti)
(Sa room ni vince)
Vince: (pumasok; napaupo sa kama at tiningnan ang scrapbook na bigay ni cassie; napangiti)
(Isang araw)
Sa bahay nina cassie
cassie: (pababa ng hagdan)
Yaya Elisa: o cassie sa sabado na bday mo anong gusto mong ihanda natin?
Cassie: wag na yaya hindi ko rin naman makakasama sina mommy daddy
yaya elisa: pero andito ka naman, andito naman kami
cassie: alam ko naman po yon Yaya. Pero saka ko na lang ice celebrate pang andiyan an sina mommy't daddy. (umalis)
yaya Elisa: (nalungkot)
Yaya Elisa: may bisita ka
cassie: aga naman
Vince: (pumasok; may dalang flowers) happy bday!
Cassie: (nagulat) vince?
Vince: (nilapitan si cassie)) for you... (inabot ang bulaklak)
yaya Elisa: maiwan ko muna kayo (lumabas ng room)
cassie: (tinangggap ang flowers) thank you... ano ba yan binigla mo naman ako. Hindi **** ako nakapaghanda
vince: surprise nga diba?
Cassie: at na surprise mo talaga ako don! Kinikilig naman ako
vince: (napangiti ng makita ang mga pictures niya na nasa side table ni cassie) ano bang gusto mong gift?
Cassie: ikaw!
Vicne: ako?
Cassie: ahh ibig ko sabihin ikaw ang bahala!
Vince: ahh tonight susunduin kita..7pm
cassie: okey
vince: oh may practice pa kami I have to go
cassie: sige ingat ka!
Vince: (hinalikan si cassie) bye!
Cassie: (nagulat ng halikan siya ni vince)
vince: (paglabas ng room; napalingon kay cassie sabay kindat; lumabas ng room)
cassie: (napatili)ayyyyyyyyiieeeeeee!!!!!!!
(Sa labas ng room)
vince: (natawa non marinig ang tili ni cassie)
(Sa loob ng room ni cassie)
Cassie: ganda ko lang! (sabay flip ng hair)
(Gabi)
Sa park
Cassie; Vince: (dumating)
cassie: (naka blindfold)
vince: (inalalayan si cassie)
cassie: Vince, ano ba to?
Vince: sandali...o ano ready ka na ba?
Cassie: tagal na!
Vince: okey one, two, three (kinuha ang blindfold)
(Naroon ang ang mga kaibigan ni cassie na sina Annie at Jorge, ang mga batang sina Marie at Claring at iba pang batang kalye, ang yaya elisa at driver ni cassie sabay sabay silang bumati ng Happy bday)
Cassie: (naiyak sa tuwa) awww thank you
Annie; Jorge: (lumapit ke cassie) friend!!!
Jorge: yong ngayari last time...
casie: ay naku kalimutan nyo na yon.basta love ko kayo
Annie; Jorge: love ka rin namin!!
(nAGYakap)
Cassie: (niyakap ang mga batang andoon at ;ahat ng kanyang bisita)
Vince: (napangiti ng makitang masaya si cassie)
(Pagkatapos ng party)
sina cassie at vince na lang ang naiwan
cassie: (nakahiga sa may damuhan habang nakatingala sa langit)
vince: (lumapit) cassie pinauna ko na sina yaya elisa ako na maghahatid sayo pauwi
Cassie: parang ayoko ng matapos ang araw na to Vince ang saya saya ko lang.siyempre may kulang, wala ang parents ko. Pero kung iispin ko yong kulang, hindi ko maa appreciate ang kung anong meron ako ngayon.
Vince: (umupo sa tabi ni cassie) masaya ako na kahit papano napasaya kita
Cassie: ano ka ba! Shempre naman. Kaya maraming salamat
Vince: no. maraming salamat sayo. Salamt kasi hindi ka bumitaw sakin, hindi ka sumuko. Salamat kasi natanggap mo kung sino ako. Tanggap mo lahat ng imperfections ko. Salamt kahit nasasaktan kita, hindi ka nawala.
Cassie: kung hindi ako nawala noon, mas lalo na ngayon. Humiga ka dali!
Vince: huh?
Cassie: gayahin mo ginawa ko humiga ka tapos tumingala ka sa langit. Bilis!
Vince: (humiga s tabi ni cassie at tumingala sa langit)
cassie: alam mo pag masaya ako o pag malungkot ako pumupunta ako dito, tas ganito ginagawa ko. Kasi naniniwala ako na naramdaman ng langit yong naramdaman mo. Tsaka puwede mo siyang kuwentuhan ng kahit na ano. Tapos nag-aabang din ako ng falling star, tas nagwi wish ako
vince: hindi ako naniniwala sa mga wishes na ganyan eh
Cassie: ay bakit naman? Tutuo yon huh!
Vince: bakit? May wish ka na bang tinupad niya?
Cassie: oo. Ikaw!
Vince: (napatingin kay cassie)
cassie: pag nandito ako noon tas may makikita akong falling star ang lagi ko wini wish na sana mapansin mo rin ako, makita mo rin ako. Dati kasi parang isa kalang sa mga bituin sa langit tinitingnan ko lang sa malayo, ngayon, andito ka na sa tabi ko nahahawakan na kita, nakakausap, nayayakap.
Vince: sana may dadaang falling star para makapag wish din ako
cassie: meron yan! Antay ka lang
(Ilang sandali)
Cassie: oh ayan may falling star! Dali, pikit mo ang mga mata mo, mag wish tayo (pinikit ang mga mata)
Vince: (pinikit ang mga mata)
Cassie: gusto mo malaman wish ko?
Vince: ano?
Cassie: na sana maipasa mo yong geometry sa finals. Tas makapasa ka don sa entrance exam ng college na gusto mo pasukan para magign proud sayo ang parents mo lalo na ang daddy mo
vince: wala ka bang winish para sa sarili mo ****?
Cassie: wala. Basta maligaya yong mga taong mahahalaga sakin. Masaya na rin ako
Vince: how can you be so selfless?
Cassie: napagkaitan din ako ng atensyon at pagmamahal at masakit yon. Kaya yong mga taong gusto kong pasayahin at mahalin pinapakita ko sa kanila, binibigay ko yong pagmamahal, hanggat may maibibigay pa ako. Kasi ayokong sa huli magsisi ako na may kaya pa *** akong ibigay pero hindi ko nagawa. Eh ikaw anong winish mo?
Vince: secret!
Cassie: ang daya daya mo!
Vince: malalaman mo rin yon in time
cassie: ay naku bahala ka na nga! (pinikit ang mga mata)
vince: (tiningnan si cassie; hinawakan ang kamay ni cassie sabay pikit sa mga mata)
Cassie: (napangiti)
(isang araw sa bahay nina vince)
(Sa may garahe)
manong ben: (nagbaabsa ng dyaryo sa loob ng kotse)
Vince: (lumapit) Manong pakihanda ng kotse tumawag kasi sakin si cassie darating ang parents niya today eh wala yong driver nila, samahal natin siyang sunduin ang parents niya sa airport.
Manong Ben: sige..mag-aagahan lang ako sandali sa loob
vince: sige po
Manong Ben: (iniwan ang dyaryo sa ibabaw ng kotse at pumasok sa loob ng bahay)
Vince: (bubuksan sana ang pinto ng kotse ng makita nia ang balita sa dyaryo; kinuha niya ito at binasa)
ABBY VERA CRUZ AT JAY LEDESMA HIWALAY NA!
Vince: (hindi nakaimik)
(Sa airport)
Vince: (tahimik lang)
Cassie: vince, okey kalang ba?
Vince: huh? Ah oo
cassie: wag ka kabahan sigurado ako magugustuhan ka nina mommy't daddy
vince: (napatango)
Mommy Suzette; Daddy Emil: (dumating)
cassie: (masayang sinalubong ng yakap ang parents niya) mommy!daddy!
Vince: (napangiti ng makitang masaya si cassie)
cassie: namiss ko po kayo
Mommy Suzette: we mis you too
cassie: mom, dad si vince po....boyfriend ko. Vince and mommy't daddy ko.
Vince: (nakipag shake hands sa parents ni cassie) nice meeting you po maam, sir
Mommy Suzette: nice meeting you too Vince.
Daddy emil: hmm..mukhang madami tayo pag-uusapan Vince
cassie: daddyyy wag nyo namang tinatakot si vince.
Daddy emil: jowk lang!
Vincenapangti)
cassie: lets go!
(umalis sila)
(Sa bahay nina cassie)
(Sa may garden)
vince: (may binabasa na text galing ky abby)
Pls Vince I need you...
cassie: (lumapit) Vince.
Vince: (napalingon kay cassie; itinago ang cellphone sa bulsa) o cassie
cassie: are you okey?
Vince: oo naman. Ahh cassie pinapatawag kasi ako ni coach may importante daw kaming pag-uusapan about the team
cassie: ganun ba? O sige pero balik ka mamayang dinner huh? May inihanda kaming dinner for mom and dad gusto ko nandito ka para mas makilala ka nila
Vince: okey, sige! Alis na ako. Bye!
Cassie: bye!
Vince: (Umalis)
(Sa bahay nina Abby)
Vince: (dumating)
abby: (umiiyak na yumakap kay Vince) vince!!
Vince: (niyakap si abby)
abby: niloko niya ako Vince!!!
Vince: shhh...tama na..
(Gabi)
Sa bahay nina cassie
cassie: (patingin tingin sa phone) vince asaan ka na ba?
Mommy Suzette: (lumapit) cassie
cassie: ma!
Mommy Suzette: is vince coming?
Cassie: kanina ko pa po siya tinatawagan eh hindi niya sinasagot phone niya. Baka kung ano ng ngyari sa kanya..nag-alala na po ako
Mommy Suzette: baka ka meeting pa niya coach niya. Gutom na ang daddy mo. Lets have dinner na hahabol na lang siguro yong si vince.
Cassie: sige po
(Pumunta sa dining room)
(Sa bahay nina Abby)
Abby; Vince: (nakaupo)
Abby: pinagpalit niya ako sa isang beauty queen na mas matanda pa kesa sa kanya
vicne: nakapag-usap na ba kayo?
Abby: oo. At nakipagbreak na ako sa kanya. I hate him! (umiiyak na yumakap kay vince)
Vince: (nalungkot)
(Sa bahay nina cassie)
Natapos na ang dinner)
Mommy Suzete: cassie, matutulog na kami ng daddy mo, pagod kami sa byahe eh
cassie: sieg po (nagbeso sa ina) goodnight mom!
Mommy Suzette: goodnight
cassie: (nagbeso sa ama) goodnight dad!
Daddy Emil: goodnight!
(Umakyat na parents niya sa room)
Cassie: (naptingin sa relo at alas nuebe na ng gabi)
(Sa baahy nina abby)
Sa room ni abby
Abby: (nakatulog)
Vince: (ng makitang tulog na si abby ay dahan dahan siayng lumabas ng room)
(Sa labas ng room ni abby)
Vince: (napatingin sa cellphone at naka 20 misscalls at 30 messages na si cassie; napansing naka sileng pala phone niya) oh ****! (tatatwagan sana si cassie pero biglang nag lowbatt ang phone niya) ****! (dali daling umalis)
(Sa bahay nina cassie)
Cassie: (nakatulog sa sala)
(Sa labas)
Vince: (nagdoorbell)
(Sa loob)
Cassie: (nagising) Vince! (dali daling lumabas)
(Sa labas)
Cassie: (binuksan ang gate; niyakap ng mahigpit si vince)
Vince: (nagtaka) cassie...
cassie: (kumalas sa pagkakayakap kay vince)okey ka lang ba? Nag-alala ako sayo eh, kala ko kung ano ng masayang ngyari sayo
Vince: Im okey
cassie: bat di mo sinasagot ang mga tawag ko?batdi ka nag text? Pinag alala mo ako eh
Vince: Im sorry...Im sorryy.. (niyakap si cassie) Im sorry cassie..
Cassie: its okey
vince: ano kasi...
cassie: natagalan lang kayo sa pag-uusap ni coach diba?
Vince: huh? Ah, oo
cassie: o kumain ka na ba?
Vince: tapos na
cassie: next time mag text ka o tumawag ka para di ako mag-alala
vince: okey. Im sorry ulit. Dumaan lang talaga ako para malaman mong okey ako ang that I am sorry
Cassie: okey na yon
Vince: hindi ka galit?
Cassie: nag sorry ka na diba?okey na yon. Sige na umuwi ka na, magpahinga ka na
vince: ikaw din
cassie: sige goodnight.
VINCE: goodnight (pumasok sa sasakyan; umalis na)
(Sa loob ng room ni cassie)
Cassie: (pumasok sa room; kinuha ang newspapaer na nakuha pala niya sa loob ng kotse nina vince; naiyak ng mabasa an headline na hiwalayan nina abby at ng boyfriend nito)
(Sa may schoo canteen)
Anni: so feeling mo kaya hindi nakapunta si vince sa dinner nyo kagabi kasi magkasama sila ni abby?
Cassie: feeling ko lang naman
Jorge: oh eh bat ayaw mo siyang tanungin?
Cassie: ayoko. Ayoko namang isipin niya na pinagdududahan ko siya o hind ko siya pinagkakatiwalaan
jorge: yan ba talaga ang dahilan? O natatakot ka lang sa magiging sagot niya>
cassie: kung masasaktan lanf din ako sa magiging sagot niya, mabuti pa wag ko na alng siyang tanungin diba?kadlasan masakit yon tutuo eh kaya ayoko na lang alamin.
Annie: so hangagng kelan ka mabubuhay sa kasinungalingan?
Cassie: hanggat kaya ko..hanggat mahal ko siya (naiyak)
Anni; Jorge: (niyakap si cassie)
(Isang gabi)
(Sa bahay nina cassie)
Cassie: (may kausap sa phone)hello Vince..
vINCE: (sa kabilang linya) I-Im okey.
Cassie: hindi kasi tayo masyado nagkausap kanina sa school
Vince: busy lang kasi ako
Cassie: mukha nga. Ahh hindi ka ba pupunta dito ngayon sa bahay?pinagbake kita ng cake.
Vince: ahh may pinagagawa kasi sakin si daddy
cassie: ganun ba? Sige dadalhan na lang kita bukas
vince: sige, ikaw ang bahala.
Abby: vince, handa na meryenda..tara na!
Cassie: (narinig ang boses ni abby)
vince: ahh sige cassie, tinatawag na ako ng ate ko. Bye!
Cassie: bye!
Vince: (inoff ang phone)
casie: (naiyak)
(Sa may Mall)
Cassie; Jorge; Annie: (naglalakad)
Jorge: buti naman at nahila ka namin dito sa mall
cassie: kaaalis na rin naman kasi nina mommy't daddy, tas busy pa si vince.
Annie: ano ba ang pinagkakaabalahan nyang si vince?
Cassie: hindi ko alam eh
Jorge: hindi ka man lang nag-abalang magtanong?
(Sa may di kalayuan)
abby; Vince: (naglalakad)
Annie: (nakita sina abby at vince; sinenyasan si Jorge na andiyan si vince at abby)
jorge: ah friend wag tayo diyan
cassie: bakit?
Jorge: mag c CR ako sandali! Dito tayo
cassie: mag c CR ka lang magpapasama ka pa samin?
Jorge: gaga! Sa labas naman kayo mag-aantay. Tara! Bilis! (hinila si cassie)
(Umiba sila ng daa..habang naglalakad sina cassie, annie at Jorge napalingon si cassie at eksaktong nakita ni cassie sina abby at vince)
Cassie: (natigilan ng makita sina abby at vince)
annie: cassie..
Cassie: (naiyak; patakbong umalis)
annie; Jorge: cassie! (patakbong sinundan si cassie)
(Sa kinaroronan ni cassie)
Cassie: (umiiyak; tumigil sa pagtakbo)
annie; Jorge: (nilapitan si cassie)friend..
cassie: ang sakit...ang sakit sakit pala
annie; Jorge: (niyakap si cassie)
cassie: (umiiyak na yumakap sa mga kaibigan)
(Gabi)
(Sa may garden ng bahay nina cassie)
Vince: (nakaupo)
Cassie: (lumapit)
Vince: (tumayo) cassie..
cassie: napadalaw ka ata? Natapos mo na ba yong pinapagawa sayo gn daddy mo?
Vince: ah oo
cassie: okey. Anong ginawa mo buong maghapon?
Vince: yon ngang pinagawa sakin ng daddy
cassie: nag malling kami kanina nina Annie at Jorge
Vince: ganun ba? Buti naman at naaliw ka
cassie: nakita nga kita don eh kasama mo si abby
vince: (gulat na natingin kay cassie)
cassie: may inutos ba sayo ang daddy mo sa mall tas nagkataong andon din si abby?nagkataon lang ba yon? O nagsinungaling ka talaga sakin?
Vince: cassie, may pinagdadaanan ngayon si abby , kailangan niya....kailangan niya ako
cassie: (naiyak) kaya sinasaktan mo ako ng ganito?
Vince: bat mo sinusumbat sakin yan ngayon?
Cassie: vince hindi ako nanunumbat, tinatanong kita.
Vince: oo. Sa tuwing di tayo magkasama si abby ang kasama ko.
Cassie: (sinampal si vince)
Vince: oh bat ka nagagalit ngayon?
Cassie: pano mo nagawa sakin to?ano pa bang kulang sakin Vince huh?mahal na mahal naman kita ah!
Vince: kailanman hindi ko hiniling sayo na mahalin mo ako ng ganyan at hindi ko rin pinangakong maibabalik ko sayo ang ganyang klaseng pagmamahal
cassie: pero nangako kang susubukan mo diba?
Vince: (hindi nakaimik)
cassie: pero hindi mo nagawa?
Vince: cassie natutuwa ako sayo..at...
cassie: natutuwa? Anong akala mo sakin clown?na pag malungkot ka andyan para sumaya ka, tas pag okey ka na puwede mo na pauwiin kasi hindi mo na kelangan?ganun lang ba ang tingin mo sakin Vince?ginamit mo lang ba talaga ako para makalimutan mo si abby?pinagtyagaan mo lang ba ako kasi ako yong andito nong iniwan ka niya at ipagpalit sa iba?ni hindi mo ba ako tinuring meski kaibigan lang? Ni kunti man lang bang respeto hindi mo ba naibigay sakin?
Vince: cassing naging malapit ka sakin. Tinuring kitang kaibigan, ma...mahalaga ka sakin
cassie: okey ka pa lang magpahalaga ng kaibigan. Ganito ka pala magpahalaga ng taong nagmahal sayo. Touch naman ako!sana lahat ng taong nagpapahalaga gaya mo para lahat ng luka lukang gaya ko matauhan. Alam mo ang daan palabas,umalis ka na
Vince: cassie pls mag-usap tayo ng maayos
Cassie: umalis ka na!
Vince: cassie...
Cassie: (sinigawan si vince) umalis ka na! Umalis ka na sa bahay namin! Umalis ka na sa buhay ko!parang awa mo na vince umalis ka na!
Vince: (umalis)
cassie: (umiyak ng umiyak)
(Sa may park)
Cassie: (nakaupo sa damuhan; umiiyak) **** siya! Lahat naman ginawa ko, kulang na lang tumambling ako mahalin lang niya ako.bakit parang laging kulang? Laging bitin?ang hirap maging masaya..(umiiyak; tumingala sa langit; napapikit ng may dumaang falling star) pls sana mawala na ang sakit..sana makayanan ko ang bawat araw na magdadaan ..sanay akong araw araw iniisp at minamahal ko si vince..sana matuto akong isipin at mahalin ko din ang sarili ko ng higit pa sa pagmamahal ko para sa kanya (umiiyak)
(Sa may kalsada)
cassie: (nag-aabang ng taxi; pumara ng taxi at agad siyang sumakay)
Taxi driver: (nagmamaneho; tiningnan sa salamin si cassie) pamilyar sakin yang mukha mo ah!
Cassie: po?
Taxi driver: ah tama! Ikaw yong babaeng tinutulungan yong future boyfriend niya na habulin yong ex girlfriend niya. Oh ano nahabol ba niya?nagign boyfriend mo ba yong lalake?
Cassie: kayo po pala yon Manong. Ayun akala ko nahabol ko na siya, pero tumakbo ulit eh
taxi driver: bat ka malungkot?hindi mo na ba siya hinabol ulit?
Cassie: napagod lang siguro ako kakahabol Manong. Akala ko kakayanin ko, kung paa lang yong sumasakit malamang carry ko lang.pero pag tumagos na pala yogn sakit dito sa puso, kahit gusto mo pang habulin mapapasuko ka rin.
Taxi Driver: may hangganan din naman kasi ang lahat. Hindi habangbuhay habol ka lang ng habol.darating ang panahon, hihinto ka rin, mapapaisip ka, san ba to papunta?ano ba ang nasa dulo?parang taxi , tumatakbo dahil sa gasolina, pag ubos na gasolina hindi na tatakbo. Ganun yon sa tao, pag hindi ka nakakakuha ng pagmamahal don sa taong hinahabol mo, k
huminto ka na kasi wala namng dahilan na para habulin mo pa siya. Ang taxi tatakbo ulit may may gasolina na, tulad ng tao magmamahal ka ulit pag may dumating na tamang tao para sayo. Kaya wag mong itod lahat para may maibigay ka pa kapag dumting ang taong yon
Cassie: sana traffic light na lang an puso nho?may signal ka kung kelan ka hihinto, kelan ka maggo go .
Taxi driver: kaso parang sasakyang walang preno ang puso sige lang ng sige
cassie: (napansin ang black pin sa dibdib ng drver) Manong namatayan po ba kayo?
Taxi driver: yong asawa ko
Cassie: Im sorry po...
Taxi driver: pero alam ko isang araw magkakasama din kami. Siya lang ang kaisa isang babaeng minahal ko buong buhay ko.may dahilan ang pagdating niya sa buhay ko, kaya naniniwala ako may dahilan din ang kanyang pagkawala. Hindi naman ako naging perpektong asawamay naging pagkakamali din ako, mga pagkukulang..pero minahal ko ang asawa ko ng higit pa sa buhay ko. Nong mawala siya don ko naisip ang dami kong sinayang na panahon at oras. Ganun siguro yon nho pag nawala yong isang tao saka mo mare realize ang halaga niya sa buhay mo
Cassie: tapos hindi mo na maibabalik yong tao....at yong mga panahong nasayang
taxi driver: maikli lang ang buhay iha, wag mong sayangin. Magign masaya ka. Hindi ka tuluyang magiging masaya kung palagi mong iisipin ang ikaliligaya ng iba. Hindi masamang paminsan minsan isipin mo din ang sarili mo, kasi ang tutuo para makapagbigay ka ng pagmamahal sa iba, dapat mahalin mo muna sarili mo.
Cassie: (napatango) yon po siguro ang kelangan ko matutunan ngayon.
Taxi driver: teka, magpatugtog nga tayo ng mga magagandang kanta
Cassie: sige Manang parang masarap umemote habang nakasakay ng taxi
taxi driver: teka, nasan na ba yong CD ko dito (yumuko)
(Hindi namalayan ng driver na nakasalubong nila ang isang malaking truck)
Cassie: (napasigaw) ahhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
(Nabunggo ang taxi sa isang malaking truck)
Cassiel Taxi driver: (duguan)
CHAPTER 6
(Sa ospital)
(dali daling ipinasok si cassie sa ER)
Yaya Elisa; Annie; Jorge: (dumating;bakas sa mukha ang pag-aalala)
Yaya Elisa: (umiiyak)Doc pls iligtas nyo po ang alaga ko...parang awa nyo na..
Dr Perez: opo..gagawin po namin lahat wag po kayo mag-alala (pumasok sa ER)
AnniE; jORGE: (umiiyak)
(Sa bahay nina Vince)
sa room ni Vince...
Vince: (nanonood ng tv; nagulat ng mapanood sa balita ang tungkol sa aksidente ni cassie; nagulat; dali daling kinuha ang phone at may tinaawagan)hello Annie...
Annie: (sa kabilang linya) hello Vince...
Vince: napanood ko sa balita ang nagyari ke cassie..asan na siya ngayon? Saang ospital siya dinala? Pls sabihin mo sakin annie....sige papunta na ako diyan ...
(Sa ospital)
Annie; Jorge; Yaya Elisa: (dumating)
Vince: (patakbong dumating; lumapit kina annie at Jorge) si cassie?
Annie: nasa loob pa siya ng ER..
Vince: (nakaupo sa pag-alala)
(sa labas ng ER)
Vince; Annie;Jorge; Yaya Elisa: (nakaupo)
Dr perez: (Lumabas ng ER)
Vince; Annie; Jorge; Yaya Elisa: (nagsitayuan)
Yaya Elisa: Doc, kumusta na ho si cassie?
Dr Perez: she's okey. Ligtas na siya
Yaya Elisa: salamat sa diyos
Annie; Jorge; Vince: (natuwa)
Dr Perez: kasalukuyan siyang nagpapahinga. Binigyan na muna namin sya ng pampatulog. Pero baka maya maya lang magigising na siya at ililipat na din siya sa regular room.
Yaya Elisa: marami pong salaamt Doc
Dr Perez: (tumango) sige (umalis)
(Nang makalipat na sa reguilar room si cassie)
(Sa room ni cassie)
Jorge: friend ang saya saya namin at ligtas ka na
cassie: salamat. Yaya yong taxi driver po kumusta na po ang kalagayan niya?nakaligtas ba siya?
Yaya Elisa: (nalungkot)wala na siya cassie. Patay na siya
cassie: (naiyak na nangingiti) masaya na siya. Magkakaksama na din sila ng asawa niya
jorge: alam mo ang kuwento ng buhay niya friend?
Cassieo
Jorge: nag-iisa ka talaga friend!
Annie: (pumasok)
cassie: o annie!
Annie: may gusto sanang kumausap sayo
cassie: sino?
Vince: (pumasok)
Yaya Elisa: vince wag ngayon.
Cassie: yaya sige na po iwan nyo po muna kami
yaya Elisa: cassie...
cassie: sige na po
yaya elisa; Annie; Jorge: (lumabas ng room)
Vince: (lumapit kay cassie) Im glad you're okey. Nag-alala a...kami lahat sayo
Cassie: salamat sa pag-aalala
vince: (umupo sa tabi ni cassie) babantayan kita, ako ang mag-aalaga sayo
cassie: wag na vince. Hindi kita kelangan dito. Salamat sa pagbisita. Kung nagpunta ka dito para masiguro ang kalagayan ko, ngayong alam mo na okey na ako, makakaalis ka na.
Vince: wag mo naman akong ipagtabuyan cassie. Alam ko hindi naging maganda ang huli nating pag-uusap
Cassie: kung mag-uusap ba tayo ulit may magbabago ba?mababago ba lahat ng ngyari?mababawasan ba non ang sakit na naramdaman ko ngayon?
Vince: alam ko malaki ang naging kasalanan ko sayo. Naiintindihan kita
cassie: hindi mo ako naiintindihan Vince kasi madamot ka! Makasarili ka!wala kang pakialam sa naramdaman ng iba dahil ang mahalaga sayo naramdaman mo. Aaminin ko hindi ka madaling kalimutan kasi hindi lang kita minahal ng sobra sobra sinaktan mo din ako ng sobra sobra.
Vince: Im sorry..
cassie: tama na! Wala na rin namang magagawa ang sorry mo. Ngyari na ang ngyari naisp ko din may kasalanan din naman ako. Hinayaan kong abusuhin mo ang pagmamahal ko para sayo. Naaala mo non, sabi ko magiging manhid ako sa lahat ng mga sakit na pupuwede kong maramdaman? Im sorry kung hindi ko yon natupad. Pero ginawa ko naman lahat, pinilit ko naman intindihin. Pero pag andiyan na pala, pag nasa harap mo na ang hirap pala. Tutuo talaga yong kasabihang the truth hurts kasi yon ang tutuo eh, hindi mo na mababago yon. At ang tutuo, hindi ka kailanman magiging akin Vince. Mananatili ka na lang pangarap. Isa ka sa mga magpapatunay na hindi lahat ng pangarap natutupad. Mali pala ang falling star at tama ka hindi pala lahat ng wish nagkakatotoo.
Vince: (naiyak) cassie..
cassie: kugn talagang pinahahalagahan mo pa ang pinagsamahan natin siguro naman kahjit papano may naitulong din ako sayo, may papakiusap sana ako sayo for the last time.
Vince: ano yon? Kahit na ano para sayo
cassie: layuan mo ako
vince: ano?
Cassie: hindi naman siguro magiging mahirap yon para sayo diba? Wag mo na akong dalawin dito o sa bahay. Wag mo na rin akong tawagan. Sa school, wag mo na rin akong lapitan o kausapin gaya ng dati
vince: bakit?
Cassie: kasi baka di kita matiis. Ngiti mo pa lang kasi nanghihjina na ako eh. Vince tama na huh?tama na yong sakit. Wag mo na akong saktan. Mas magiging madali para sakin na kalimutan ka kung tuluyan na kitang ibubura sa buhay ko
vince: hindi ba tayo puwedeng magsimula ulit?
Cassie: pag pinagbigyan kita, parang hinayaan ulit kitang saktan ako. Kaya ayoko na. Si abby, diba mahal mo pa rin siya?balikan mo siya. Hindi ko alam kung sasabihin ko bang pinapalaya na kita kasi hindi ka naman talaga nagign akin. Kaya sige na vince umalis ka na.
Vince: cassie...
cassie: pls Vince....
Vince: (malungkot na tumayo)
Cassie: (tumalikod sa pagkakahiga; umiiyak)
Vince: (lumabas ng room)
Cassie: (umiiyak)
(Sa may park)
Vince: (umiiyak; naalala ang mga panahong magkasama sila ni cassie; sabay background music ang “Hindi mo na ba mahal” )
(Isang araw)
sa room ni cassie
Cassie: yaya. Alam na ba nina mommy't daddy ang ngyari sakin?
Yaya elisa: oo. Pauwi na sila dito
cassie: kelan?
Yaya Elisa: ahh may meeting pa silang pupuntahan tapos...
cassie: okey lang Yaya alam ko na
Yaya Elisa: o anak may bibilhin lang muna ako sa canteen, babalik ako agad
cassie: sige po Yaya
Yaya Elisa: may ipabibili ka ba?
Cassie: *** yaya, salamat
Yaya Elisa: sige (lumabas ng room)
(iLANG sandali)
sa labas ng room ni cassie)
Ethan: (palingon-lingon na parang may pinagtataguan dali daling pumasok sa room nicassie)
(Sa loob ng room cassie)
Ethan: (Pumasok)
cassie: (tumili) ahhhh!!!!!!!!!
ethan: shhh!!! (lumapit ke Cassie) Miss wag ka maingay!
Cassie: sino ka?anong ginagawa mo dito sa room ko?
Ethan: may pinagtataguan lang ako, lalabas din ako
cassie: sinong pinagtataguan mo? Masama kang tao nho?
Ethan: ano? Tingnan mo nga ako mukha ba akong masamang tao?
Cassie: eh sino ngang pinagtataguan mo?
Ethan: yong nurse
cassie: bakit? Gilrfriend mo? no.2 mo?
Ethan: hindi. Hindi
cassie: eh bat mo siya pinagtataguan?
Ethan: ehhh takot kasi ako sa injection eh, sa karayom
cassie: (natawa)
Ethan: oh bat ka natatawa?
Cassie: kalalake mong tao, takot ka sa karayom
ethan: lahat ng tao may kinatatakutan eh karayom yong akin, bakit ba?
Cassie: (natawa; napailing)
ethan: yabang nito!
(sA Bahay nmina vince)
sa room niya..
Vince: (nakaupo; nagmumokmok)
Abby: (kumatok)
Vince: come in!
Abby: (pumasok) Vince! (lumapit ke vince at humalik)
vince: oh abby what are you doiong here?
Abby: dinadalaw ka. Sabi kasi skin ni Tita lagi ka raw nagmumokmok dito sa room mo. May problema ka ba?
Vince: nothing. Gusto ko lang mapag-isa
abby: dont tell me nalulungkot ka sa ngyari sa inyo ni cassie. Nag-aalala ka ba na wala ng magtu tutor sayo sa geometry? Oh ako na magtuturo sayo..
vince: (nagalit) abby higit pa sa pagiging tutor ang naging papel ni cassie sa buhay ko at kung ano man ang naging papel niya sa buhay ko hindi mo yon mapapalitan
abby: wala akong balak palitan siya kasi hindi ko naman siya ka level ah! Hindi ako naghahabol sa isang lalakeng hindi naman ako mahal.
Vince: then what are you doing here?
Abby: what?
Vince: abby gusto kong mapag-isa, pls leave me alone
abby: (inis na lumabas ng room)
(sA Hospital)
(sa room ni cassie)
Ethan: teka, bat ka andito sa hospital?
Cassie: namamalengke. Malamang nagpapagaling
ethan: ibig ko sabihin anong ngyari sayo at bat ka andito?
Cassie: naaksidente yong taxing sinasakyan ko. Ikaw? Anong ngyari sayo bat ka naospital?
Ethan: nagtangka akong magpakamatay eh
cassie: ano? Bakit?
Ethan: gusto mo talagang ikuwento ko sayo?
Cassie: kung ayaw mo. O di wag
ethan: sus! Nagtampo ka naman agad. (umupo at kumuha ng isang apple) penge huh! (Kinain ang apple) uminom ako ng gamot pampatulog, madaming sleeping pills eh sinuwerte nakita ako gn katulong namin, dinala ako dito sa ospital, kaya heto ako ngayon, buhay at kausap ka.
Cassie: bat ka nagtangkang magpakamatay?
Ethan: chismosa ka rin huh!
Cassie: puwede mo namang di sagutin
ethan: para mabawasan naman ang guwapo sa mundo
Cassie: aHH OO nga naman..pati mayayabang na rin
ethan: dahil sa babae
cassie: talaga?
Ethan: eh hiniwalayan nya ako eh. Nakahanap siya ng iba. Mas matino, mas matalino, mas maayos na tao kesa sakin. Ehh mahal na mahal ko siya, kung ano ano na ginawa ko bumalik lang siya sakin, para mabawasan yong sakit, naisip ko na lang magpakamatay o di tapos na sana! Wala na sanang sakit.
Cassie: mas may baliw pa pala kesa sakin
ethan: bakit? Nagmahal ka din ng sobra?
Cassie: (tumango)
Ethan: hirap nho?bigay ka ng bigay. Habol ka ng habol. Ang ***** lang talaga! Pag nagmahal ka kasi ng sobra walakang iniisip kundi ang taong yon. Sarado ang isip mo sa ibang bagay. Wala kang ibang pinakikinggan kundi ang tinitibok ng puso mo.
Cassie: tama. Eh ngayonm okey ka na ba?
Ethan: nong magising ako tas naisip ko pangalawang buhay ko na to sabi ko hindi ko to sasayangin. Babangon ako, mas magiging matatag, mas mamahalin ko na sarili ko.
Cassie: papano mo sisimulan?
Ethan: pag nagmahal ka ng sobra sobra sa isang tao ang unang nawawala sayo sarili mo. Don mo simulan sa kung ano yong nawala sayo. Yon ang una mong hanapin at buuin.
Cassie: (napaisip)
yaya Elisa: (pumasok)
cassie: yaya!
Yaya Elisa: sino siya?
Ethan: (tumayo) oh ako po si Ethan
cassie: nakitago siya dito Yaya.
Yaya Elisa: bat siya nagttago?
Cassie: kasi...takot siya sa karayom
(tawanan)
(Sa bahay nina Vince)
Vince: (pababa ng hagdan)
daddy Nelson: (lumapit)Vince!
Vince: yes dad?
Daddy Nelson: are you doing something para umayos naman grades mo?
Vince: yan na lang ba talaga ang concern nyo dad?
Daddy Nelson: ofcourse! Hindi ka makakapasok sa isang maganda at prestigious school here or abroad kung mabababa yong mga grades mo
Vince: dont worry dad sisikapin ko pong maibigay ang gusto nyo. But dad for once magign concern din naman kayo sa naramdaman ko. Wag nyo naman po akong palagign sermonan. Buti pa si cassie tanggap ako, pero kayo kelangan ko pang magsikap matanggap nyo lang ako. Kayo na ama ko, kayo na pamilya ko (umalis)
Daddy Nelson: Vince!
Vince: (umalis)
(Sa labas ng bahay nina vince)
Vince: (naglalakad sa inis; natigilan; napatingin sa kanyang likod; nalungkot ng maalala si cassie)
(Sa room ni Cassie)
Cassie: (binasa ang text na galing kay Vince)
I Miss you..Pls allow me to see you..Pls allow me into your life again...
Cassie: (inoff ang phone) pinapangako ko Vince hinding hindi na ako makakapayag pang saktan mo pa ako. Hinding hindi na ako iiyak ng dahil sayo. Dahil simula sa araw na to kakalimutan na kita, buburahin na kita sa buhay ko. Makikita mo hindi na ako ang datign cassie na baliw na baliw sayo.
(Sa may park)
Vince: (nakaupo) pinapangako ko cassie hindi ako titigil hanggat hindi mo ako napapatawad. Gagawin ko ang lahat maibalik ko lang tayo sa dati. Papatunayan ko sayo na karapat dapat ako sa pagmamahal mo. Hindi ako susuko hanggang magign tayo ulit....hanggang maiparamdam ko sayo na....mahal kita cassie...
CHAPTER 7
(sa ospital)
(sa room ni cassie)
ethan: (kumatok)
Cassie: come in!
Ethan: (pumasok; hindi na nakadamit png ospital)
cassie: o Ethan!
Ethan: (nilapitan si cassie)
cassie: aba! Pormng porma ka ah!
Ethan: lalabas na ako ngayon eh
cassie: ganun ba? Buti naman. Ako, baka bukas na
ethan: baka puwede ko mahingi personal number mo o number nyo sa bahay..ops! Pero wag mo isipin type kitang ligawan huh?gusto ko lang makipagkaibigan
cassie: (natawa) oo na. Akin na phone mo
ethan: (inabot kay ethan ang phone)ito oh!
cassie: (tinangggap ang phone ni ethan; natigilan ng maalala nong binigay niya number kay vince)
Ethan: hoy! Okey ka lang?
Cassie: oo. Sandali si save ko lang number ko.
Ethan: naalala mo siya nho?
Cassie: huh? Sino?
Ethan: sus kunwari ka pa! Ganyan talaga mahirap kalimutan sa umpisa. Parang kahit saan ka tumingin andonsiya. Kapag may ginagawa ka naaalala mo siya. Kelangan mong pagdaanan yan, wala kang choice eh!
Cassie: (napatango; ibinalik ang phone kay ethan)
ethan: sige! Nice meeting you! Ingat ka, ingatan mo puso mo!
Cassie: ikaw din!
Ethan: (umalis)
cassie: (napaisip)
(Isang araw)
(Sa may classroom)
Annie: Jorge na sayo na ba yong notes na ibibigay natin ke cassie?
Jorge: oo. Andito na. Tara na!
Annie; Jorge: (paalis na sana)
Vince: (nilapitan sina annie at jorge) Annie, Jorge kumusta na si cassie?
Annie: lumabas na siya kanina nasa bahay na siya ngayon
Vince: pupunta ba kayo don ngayon?
Annie: oo
vince: puwede ba akong sumama?
Annie: annie: Vince diba kinausap ka na ni cassie tungkol diyan?
Vince: (hindi nakaimik)
Jorge: vince kung may natitira ka pang kunting concern para kay cassie sana tigilan mo na siya
vicne: Annie, Jorge tulungan nyo akong makabawi sa kanya oh!
Annie: makabawi?
Vince: I want to win her back
annie: vince tama na! Masyado ng masakit an g ngyari sa inyo ni cassie. Masyado na siyang nasaktan determinado na siyang kalimutan ka hayaan mo na siya. Lets go Jorge
Annie; Jorge: (umalis)
Vince: (nalungkot)
(Sa bahay nina cassie)
(Sa room niya)
Cassie: (tiningnan ang picture ni Vince na nasa table nya; kinuha at tinago sa isang malaking box andoon din ang scrapbook niya na laman ang mga things na tinago niya pag lumalabas sila ni vince; pagktapos tinitingnan niya ang sarili niya sa salamin)
(Kinabukasan)
9sa school
Cassie: (bumaba sa sasakyan; magandang maganda ang ayos; naglalakad sa campus)
(Napapatingin ang mga estudyante kay cassie sabay nagbubulungan)
Benjo; Mike;Anton: (nakita si cassie)
mike: pare diba si cassie yon?
Benjo: wee di nga?
Anton: siya yon!
Benjo: oo nga nho? Nagmukhang tao ah!
(tAwanan)
(Sa may hallway ng school)
Cassie: (naglalakad)
vince: (nagmamdali; may tinitingnan sa bag; hindi mapansing kasalubong si cassie)
cassie; Vince: (nagkabungguan)
Vince: sorry! (napatingin kay cassiel hindi makapaniwala sa pagbabagong nakita kay cassie)
cassie: its okey! Hindi naman ako nasaktan, sana ikaw rin! (umalis)
vince: (hindi nakaimik)
(Sa gym)
Vince: (matamlay)
Benjo: ay pare nakita mo na ba si cassie?
Vince: oo nakasalubong ko siya kanina
mike: in fairness sa jologs na yon huh biglang gumanda huh! Nag-iba ang itsura! May tinatago palang ganda yon
anton: parang swan lang na naging prinsesa
Benjo: okey na din yon, eh palay siya dati diba?
(tawanan)
Vince: enough!
Benjo: oh bat ka affected?
Vince: walang ginagawang masama sa inyo yong tao kaya tigilan nyo na siya (paalis na sana)
benjo: eh bat kung ipagtanggol mo siya parang seneryoso mo naman siya? Eh diba pinaglaruan mo lang naman siya? Ginamit mo lang naman siya para makalimutan si abby at ipamukha sa kanyang kaya mosiyang palitan!
Cassie; annie; Jorge: (duamting; eksaktong narinig ang sinabi ni Benjo)
vince: **** ka! (sinuntok si Benjo)
(Inawat sina Benjo at Vince ng mga kasamahan nila sa varisty team)
Vince: (napalingon kay cassie)
cassie; annie; Jorge: (paalis papuntang PE class)
vince: (hinarang si cassie) cassie! Cassie wait! Let me explain!
Cassie: no. no need! Magsasayang ka lang ng energy kaka explain. Dahil una, hindi ako maniniwala sayo, pangalawa, I really dont care at pangatlo get out of my way! (Umalis sabay bunggo kay vince)
Vince: (hindi nakaimik)
annie; Jorge: (sinunandan si cassie)
(Sa canteen)
Annie; Jorge; cassie: (nakaupo; kumakain)
Jorge: ang taray mo lang kanina te! Get out of my way! Sabehhhhh
annie: alam mo cassie hindi talaga ako makapniwala na ikaw yan!
Cassie: ano namang di kapani paniwala?
Annie: ikaw! Yang ganyan! Itsura mo, pananalita mo at higit sa lahat kung pano mo harapin at kausapin si vince. Kung noon halos mangisay ka sa kilig pag andyan siya. Ngayon parang hangin na lang siya sayo
cassie:yon ata ang nagagawa ng pagkaka untog, nagiging manhid ka na. Sana wag na nating pag-usapan si vince.
Jorge: okey. Pasensya
annie: oh may meeting kami for th school paper
cassie: sige, mamaya lang uwi na rin ako
annie; Jorge: okey sige bye friend!
Cassie: bye!
Annie; Jorge: (umalis)
cassie: (nagbabasa ng libro)
(Sa may di kalayuan)
Vince: (nakitang nag-iisa si cassie pero nagdadalawang isip siya kung lalapitan niya ito; huminga ng malalim saka nilapuitan si cassie at may dalang pagkain)hi cassie! (umupo sa tabi ni cassie) o ito diba favorite mo tong chocolate cake? (binigay ang cake kay cassie)
cassie: (ibinalik ang cake kay vince) hindi ko na yan paborito ngayon
vince: ah sige kuwentuhan na lang tayo
cassie: nakikita mo ba, busy ako?
Vicne: teka ano ba yang binabasa mo?
Cassie: (sinirado ang librong binabasa)nakakaistorbo ka, alam mo ba yon?
Vince: break time naman eh kuwentuhan muna tayo
cassie: (tumayo niligpit ang mga gamit at paalis na sana)
vince: (tumayo; pinigilan si cassie) cassie pls....
Cassie: (inalis ang kamay ni vince) wag mo akong hawakan na parang pagmamay-ari mo ako
vince: cassie mag-usap naman tayo oh!pakinggan mo naman yong mga paliwanag ko.
Cassie: ke tutuo o hindi yang mga paliwanag mo wala na akong pakialam pa vince. Hindi mahalaga sakin yan ngayon dahil wala ka na ring halaga pa sakin
vince: ang sakit mo namang magsalita
cassie: wag ka ngang magkunwri na parng nasasaktan ka sa mga ngyayari. At kung tutuong nasasaktan ka nga, aba buti naman para naman nasasaktan ka din at hindi ikaw oyong laging nananakit. (tumalikod)
vince: ikaw lang naman ang kayang manakit sakin ng ganito eh. Akala ko si abby na ang taong makakapanakit sakin ng sobra sobra, hindi pala, may isa pa palang makulit at maingay na babae na hindi ko inaasahang magiging napapakahalaga sakin.
Cassie: at wala na yon ngayon, *** na ang babeng yon ngayon vince. Hindi na sya babalik
vince: hihintayin ko siya
cassie: hindi na nga siya babalik!
Vince: maghihintay pa rin ako
cassie: mapapagod ka lang.
Vince: hindi siya napagod sakin non, hindi rin ako mapapagod sa kanya ngayon
cassie: (umalis)
(Sa labas ng school)
cassie: (palabas)
ethan: (duamting) cassie!
Cassie: (nagulat)ethan! Anong ginagawa mo dito?
Ethan: namamasyal
cassie: school to hindi plaza!teka pano mo nalamang dito ako nag-aaral?
Ethan: sa facebook mo. Nakalagay don eh!
Cassie: (natawa) oo nga nho?
Ethan: ni like ko nga school mo don eh!
Cassie: (natawa) puro ka talaga kalokohan!
Ethan: natatawa ka naman!teka kumain ka na ba?
Cassie: oo
ethan: puwede mo ba akong samahan kumain?nagugutom ako eh
cassie: oh may malapit na coffee shoppe dito. Tara!
(umalis)
vince: (nakitang magkasamang umalis sina cassie at ethan; sinunandan sila)
(Sa may coffee shoppe)
Ethan; Cassie: (umupo; nag-uusap)
cassie: kumusta ka na?
Ethan: ito, humihinga pa rin. Ikaw?
Cassie: ito, nagpapakatatag, nagpapakamanhid.
Ethan: sigurado nahihirapan ka kasi araw araw kayong nagkikita sa school
cassie: oo nga eh. Iniisip ko na lang yong mga ginagawa niyang masakit sakin para mas madali ko siyang maiwasan. Eh ikaw kumusta na kayo nong ex mo?
Ethan: ayun tinago ko lahat ng mga bagay na makakapagpaalala sakin sa kanya
cassie: ginawa ko rin yon
ethan: talaga?
Cassie: oo
Ethan: pero diba nakakatawa?tinago mo na, kahititapon mo pa hindi maaalis non ang pagmamahal mo sa taong yon
cassie: pero at least may ginagawa ka para makalimot, para makapag move on
ethan: sabagay...
(Sa labas ng coffee shoppe)
vince: (nalungkot ng makita sna cassie at Ethan na masayang nag-uusap)
(Sa labas n coffee shoppe)
Vince: (nalungkot ng makita sina cassie at Ethan na masayang nag-uusap)
(Sa bahay nina Vince)
Vince: (nakaupo sa tabi ng pool; malungkot)
daddy Nestor:si cassie ba?
Vince: (napatingin sa ama)
Daddy Nestor: o si abby?
Vince: (hindi umimik)
Daddy Nestor: sa inyong magkakaapatid ikaw ang kaapreho ko. Nakikita ko sayo ang sarili ko when I was your age. Lahat ng gusto ko, gusto ko makuha. But I realize hindi lahat ng gusto ko nakukuha ko ng ganun lang kadali. Mas pahahalagahan mo kasi ang isang bagay kung pinaghirapan mo na makuha ito
Vince: pano kung huli na ang lahat ipaglalaban mo pa rin ba?
Daddy Nestor: gaano ba siya kahalaga sayo?
Vince: gaano? Hindi ko alam. Hindi ko masukat.yon bang hindi mo alam kung ano ang nasa taong yon basta alam mo lang...mahal mo siya. Pero ang nakakalungkot nasasaktan ko siya, at hanggang ngayon nasasaktan ko pa rin siya
daddy Nestor: wala namang nagmamahal ng tutuo ang hindi nasasaktan
Vince: papano ko ba sya mababawi ulit kung sa umpisa pa lang nasaktan ko na sya?
Daddy Nestor: then gawin mo ang lahat para makabawi sa kanya. Kung talagang mahal mo siya hindi mo siya basta basta pakakawalan. Baka hindi na siya ulit bumalik sayo, hindi ka na magiging masaya ulit
vince: (napaisip)
Daddy Nestor: pagmamhal ang dahilan kung bakitkayo nagkakilala, pagmamahal din ang dahilan kung bat siya nawala sayo, pagmamahal din ang magbabalik sa inyong dalawa sa isat-isa.
Vnce: thanks dad
Daddy Nestor: (napatango; papasok na sana sa loob ng bahay; napaligon kay vince) yogn grades mo, ayusin mo!
VINCE: (natawa) yes dad
Daddy Nestor: (pumasok sa loob ng bahay)
(Sa bahay nina cassie)
Cassie: (dumating)
Mommy Suzette; Daddy Emil: cassie! (niyakap si cassie)
Cassie: buti naman at naalala nyo pa ako dito
mommy Suzette: cassie, ma meeting lang kaming tinapos ng daddy mo, pero nakikibalita naman kami kay Yaya Elisa at...
Cassie: Ma. Hindi ako tuta na kukumustahin nyo lang sa ibang tao. Mom, dad anak nyo ako.may pakiramdam din naman ako.pag kumakain ako sinasabi ko sana kayo ni daddy yong kasalo ko, pag hinahatid ako nina Manong at yaya elisa sa school non waalng araw na hindi ko ninais na sana kayo ang gumagawa non para sakin.pag masaya ako, pag nalulungkot ako ,pag may pinagdadaanan ako gusto ko andiyan kayo at niyayakap nyo ako. Im your daughter . Hindi ako bahay bakasyunan nyo na pinupuntahan nyo langkung kelan nyo gusto o kungkelan kayo available. Nanglilimos na nga ako ng pagmamahal sa ibang tao, pati ba naman sa inyo? (umakyat papunta sa room nya)
Mommy Suzette; Daddy Emil: (nalungkot)
(Sa school)
Cassie; Annie; Jorge: (naglalakad)
Jorge: excited na ako sa JS prom natin
annie: ako din
cassie: (tahimik lang)
annie: ikaw cassie excited ka na ba?
Cassie: okey lang. Hindi ko naga alam kung pupunta ako
jorge: gaga! Ito na ang huling prom natin remember? Ga graduate na tayo
cassie: titingnan ko
annie; Jorge: (nagkatinginan)
(Sa school auditorium)
cassie: congratulations sa new set of officers ng Drama Club!
(palakpakan ang mga tao)
Cassie: (napansing nagkakagulo sa labas) anong ngyayari sa labas? (lumabas ng auditorium)
students: (lumabas ng auditorium)
(Sa labas nagkalat ang mga petals ng roses sa floor andoon si Vince na may hawak na bouque of roses at may mga kasamang cheering squad team na may mga hawak na letters)
Cassie: (nagulat sa nakita)
vince: (lmapit ke cassie may inilabas na isang pakete ng posporo itinapon ang ibang sticks sa floor at nag-iwan ngisans stick sabay luhod sa harap ni cassie)
(Inangat ng mge members ng cheering squad team ang letrang hawak nila na bumuo ng salitang “WILL YOU BE MY MATCH?)
(kinilig lahat ng mga estudyanteng andoon)
Vince: will you be my date sa JS prom? Will you be my match?
Cassie: (hindi umiimik; tinitingnan lang si vince)
vince: pls answer me..nagmumukha na akong ***** dito
cassie:ngayon alam mo na ano ang pakiramdam na magmukhang *****. Hindi madali, hindi ba?ngayong araw ka na nga lang na to nagmukhang ***** nahihirapan ka na.eh ako, simula ng araw na mahalin kita hanggang nong araw na sinaktan mo ako pero hindi na ako magiging ***** vince ng dahil sayo (umalis)
vince: (tumayo at sinundan si cassie)kung gusto mong magmukha akong ***** para patawarin mo lang ako gagawin ko.kaya kong maging ***** para sayo.
Cassie: (pinipigilan ang luhat at nilingon si vince)walakang kelangang gawin para sakin kundi ang layuan ako.
Vince: hindi. Alam ko kasalanan ko bakit ka nawala sa buhay ko
cassie: hindi ako nawala vince, natauhan ko.na realize ko bakit ako manglilimos ng pagmamahal sayo gayogn alam ko wala kang kayang ibigay, bakit hihintayin ko ang araw na mahalin mo rin ako gayong alam ko hindi yon darating, bakit ginusto kong maging parte ka ng buhay ko ni ayaw mo ako maging parte ng sayo.matagal bago ko natanggap yon.at ngayong unti unti ko ng natatanggap heto ka mangugulo ka na naman.hindi ka na nakuntento, sinasaktan mo na naman ako. Pero hindi na ako ang dating cassie na na kilala mo noon.na kahit insultuhin mo umiiyak lang. Na kahit sigawan mo tataahimik lang. Eto na ako ngayon, thanks to you.kaya ko ng mabuhay nang wala ka. You dont matter to me anymore.alam mo kung ano ang mahalaga mong naituro sakin Vince yon ang wag ka mahalin because you dont deserve it...you dont deserve me (umalis)
(Sa venue ng JS prom)
Cassie; Ethan: (dumating)
ethan: cassie, puwede ba talaga outsiders dito?
Cassie: oo nga. Sa tingin mo ba papapasukin ka nila kung hindi?
Ethan: sabagay...
cassie: o tara pakilala kita sa mga friends ko
vince: (malungkot ng makitang magkasama sina cassie at ethan)
(Sa table nina cassie at ethan, annie at Jorge)
Cassie; ethan: (masayang nag-uusap)
vince: (malungkot na tiningnan si cassie)
(Nang i a announce na ang prom king and queen)
emcee: ito na ang pinakhihintay ng lahat ang ating Prom King and Queen . Paalala lang ang ating magiging Prom King and Queen ay di necessarily magkadate tonight okey? So excited na ba kayong malaman?
Students: Yesss!!
Emcee: okey and our Prom King and Queen are none other than Cassandra Benedicto and Vincent Castro
(TILian at palakpakan ang mga tao)
Cassie: (hindi nakaimik)
Vince: (napangiti)
Emcee: May we request our prom king and queen to psl come here infront
Vince: (nilapitan si cassie)
cassie: (umalis)
(Nagulat lahat ng mga taong andoon)
Ethan: (tumayo) cassie!
Vince: (pinigilan si ethan at siya na ang sumunod ke cassie)
(Sa labas)
Cassie: (paalis)
vince: (pinigilan s cassie) Cassie..wait!
Cassie: alam ko malaki ang naging kasalanan ko sayo..sinaktan kita, sinayang ko ang pagmamahal na binibigay mo sakin noon at habangbuhay kong pagsisishan yon. Hayaan mo akong i prove ko sayo ang sarili ko sayo. Hindi ako handa sa pagdatign mo sa buhay ko. Isang babaeng ang kulit kulit na nagmahal sakin ng sobra sobra na kailanman hjindi ko naramdaman sa iba. Sayo kio lang naramdaman na may silbi ako, na karapat dapat din akong mahalin..nong una ayokong isipin, pilit kong dini deny sa sarili ko pero nong mawala ka na sakin don ko na realize hindi ko kaya kasi mahal kita cassie..mahal na mahal kita...
Cassie: (umiyak na napalingon ke vince: anong gusto mong sabihin ko sayo Vince salamat?kasi finally nasabi mo ring mahal mo rin ako?Magtatalon ako sa tuwa dito?hindi mo kasi alam kung gaano kasakit, kahirap ang magmahal ng isang tao na kailanman hindi kayang suklian ang pagmamahal na binibnigay mo. Ang tagal kong pinagsdasal na marinig yan mula sayo vince, naghintay ako, pero vince napagod ako.
Vince: all Im asking from you is a chance...
Cassie: you blew it away! Matagal na. Simula nong nagsinungaling ka sakin. Simula ng araw na sinaktan mo ako. Simula nong araw na binigyan mo ako ng matinding rason para wag ka mahalin.
Vince: bakit ka nagbago?
Cassie: hindi ako nagbago, natuto ako
vicne: mahal kita.
Casssie: mahal mo ako ngayong wala na ako sa buhay mo
vince: kaya kong patunayan yon sayo.
Cassie: wag na!wag ka ng mag-abala pa
vince: alam ko nasaktan kita..hanggang ngayon nasasaktan kita
cassie: kahit kelan buwisit ka talaga sa buhay ko!pilt kitang kinakalimutan! Pilit kitang binubura sa buhay ko pero heto ka na naman sinasaktan mo na naman ako.ano bang kasalanan ko sayo huh bakit mo ba ako pinapahirpan ng ganito?
Vince: Im sorry
cassie: pero alam ko darating ang araw na hindi na ako iiyak ng dahil sayo, hindi na ako masasaktan ng dahil sayo.
Vicne: ibig bang sabihin non hindi mo na din ako kayang mahalin?
Cassie: ibig sabihin non natuto na akong mahalin ang sarili ko na hindi ko nagawa nong mas pinili kitang mahalin.tingnan mo ako ngayon oh Im moving on..hindi ka ba masaya para sakin?
Vince: cassie hindi ko kayang mawlaa ka sakin
cassie: kung kinaya kong tanggapin na kailanman hindi ka na magigign akin, makakaya mo rng tanggapin na kailanman hindi na ako magiging sayo
Vince: No. I wont give you up
Cassie: wala na akong maibibigay sayo vince. Ubos na ubos na ako.ngayong unti unti na akong bumabangon hayaan mo na ako pls..hayaan mo naman akong maging masaya..na alam kong hjindi mangyayari habang minamahal kita..pls let me go...kung noon takot akong mawala ka sakin, now I realize Im better off without you..
Vince: nararamdaman ko mahal mo pa rin ako
cassie: kung anuman ang natitirang pagmamahal ko para sayo hindi na yon sapat para tanggapin pa kita ulit sa buhay ko
Vince: kahit mas mahal kita kesa mahal mo ako okey lang sakin.mahalin mo lang ako ulit.. (niyakap si cassie)
cassie: bitawan mo ako!nakaya kong kalimutan ka! Makakalimutan mo din ako.siguro pinagtagpo lang tayo para matutunan nating mas mahalin pa ang mga sarili natin. Maybe were not meant to be together..dahil nagkakasikatan lang tayo..dahil noon na mahal na mahal kita hindi mo ako kayang mahalin, pero ngayong na realize mo na mahal mo na ako, nakapagdesisyon na din akong wag ka na mahalin...(umalis)
vicne: (naiyak)
Ethan: (sinunandan si cassie)
CHAPTER 8
(Sa mar park)
Cassie; Ethan: (nakaupo)
Ethan: nakakatawa diba ginagawa mo ang lahat para makaganti sa kanya para pasakitan siya pero ang tutuo sa huli ikaw pa rin yong nasasaktan.
Cassie: galit na galit ako sa kanya ethan
ethan: bakit?dahil kahit anong gawin mo mahal mo pa rin siya? Kahit anong pag-iwas ang gawin mo bumabalik ka pa rin sa kanya. Sinisikap mong wag maging *****, pero ang tutuo..
cassie: ***** talaga ako!
Ethan: lahat ata ng nagmamahal *****, kaya lahat nasasaktan. Pero alam mo cassie masuwerte pa din yong mga tulad natin.
Cassie: bakit?
Ethan: kasi maaga pa lang natuto na tayo, para sa susunod na magmamahal tayo alam na natin kung hanggang saan lang ang puwede nating ibigay.
Cassie: natututo ba talaga ang puso?diba hindi siya natuturuan?tulad ng pag nagmahal ka hindi mo naman puwedeng mahalin lang yong taong mahal ka. Kadalasan magmamahal ka ng taong hindi ka mahal.
Ethan: natututo ang puso kaya ka nga napagod kakahabol kay Vince diba? Pero hindi mo siya puwedeng turuan lumimot. Ang isip lang nakakalimot hindi ang puso.
Cassie: hindi ka ba natatakot magmamahal ulit?
Ethan: hindi.
Cassie: hindi ka natatakot ulit masaktan?
Ethan: kung matatakot akong masaktan bat pa gugustuhin ko pang mabuhay?parte yon ng pagmamahal. Dapat tanggap mo yon.
Cassie: mahal mo pa rin ba siya?
Ethan: magsisinungaling ako kung sasabihin kung hindi. Pero mukhang masaya na naman siya sa piling ng iba..okey na ako don.
Cassie: ***** ka rin talaga!
Ethan: parang ikaw lang din!
Cassie: (natawa)
ethan: halika nga dito! (niyakap si cassie)
(Sa may di kalayuan)
Vince: (nalungkot ng makitang magkayap sina cassie at ethan; malungkot na umalis)
(Sa bahay nina Vince)
Vince: (dumatign matamlay)
abby: Vince! (nilapitan si vince) JS PROM nyo pala today bakit hindi mo man lang ako inaya to be your date?
Vince: gusto mo ba talagang sagutin ko yan?
Abby: Vince ano bang nangyayari sayo?
Vince: hindi ko rin alam. Ang alam ko lang mahal na mahal ko si cassie. Hindi ko siya kayang mawala sa buhay ko.
Abby: what? I cant believe this!
Vince: ako rin. Nong una hindi ko maamin na Im falling for her, kelangan pa niyang mawala sakin bago ko ma realize yon
abby: pero ako lang ang mahal mo
Vince: hindi na ngayon
Abby: what? Ipagpapalit mo ako sa...sa jologs na yon?youre crazy!
Vince: sabihin mo na ang gusto mong sabihin I really dont care!mahal ko si cassie at gaagwin ko ang lahat to win her back. (paakyat na sana papunta sa room niya)
Abby: vince pano ako?
Vince: (napalingon kay abby) you? You're not my responsibility abby! So stay out of my life!
Abby: binago ka pa ng babaeng yon.
Vince: yes and Im glad I met her. Binago niya ako. I became a better person because of her that I was with you. (umakyat papunta sa room)
abby: (nainis)
(Sa school)
Cassie: (naglalakad may mga dalang libro)
Vince: (duamtign) cassie tulungan na kita
cassie: wag na. Kaya ko ng mag-isa
Vince: eh ang limutin ka kaya mo ba akong tulungan? Hindi ko kasi kaya yong mag-isa
cassie: (hindi pinansin si vince patuloy sa paglalakad)
Vince: (sinusundan si cassie)alam mo nagpagasolina kami kanina si Manong mahal na pala gasolinga ngayon nho?nagmahalan na lahat ng mga bilihin tayo na lang ang hindi
cassie: wag kang corny! Hindi bagay sayo!
Vince: eh baka kasi tayo ang bagay
cassie: tigilan mo na nga ako! Huwag mo akong sundan
vince: eg diba nga sabi nila follow your dream?
Cassie: iniinis mo ba ako?
Vince: hindi..minamahal kita
cassie: hindi na kita mahal
vince: eh di mahalin mo ako ulit
cassie: ang kapal talaga ng mukha mo! (umalis)
vince: (napangiti)
(Sa may canteen)
Cassie: (nakaupo; nagsusulat)
ViNCE: (lumapit) is this seat taken?
Cassie: (tumigil sa pagsusulat) ano bang gusto mo?
Vince: ikaw. Ikaw ang gusto ko
cassie: (tumayo at inis na hinarap si vince) diba sabi ko tigilan mo na ako?tingin mo ba madadala mo ako sa mga ganyan mo? Hindi na ako dating cassie, remember?
Vince: ikaw pa rin yan, alam ko naramramdaman ko.
Cassie: puwes mali yong naramdaman mo
vince: tama ang naramdaman ko para sayo.
Cassie: (nainis; umalis)
vince: (napangiti)
(Sa may dug out)
Vince; Anton: (nag-uusap)
Vince: pare, alam kong sa ating magbabarkada ikaw ang medyo matino
Anton: medyo lang?
Vince: oo
anton: may...may itatanong sana ako sayo eh
anton: ano yon?
Vince: paano ba manligaw?
Anton: ano? (natawa) pare nagpapatawa ka ba?ikaw Mr Vincent Castro nagpapaturo kung pano manligaw?
Vince: ehh... alam mo namang nong kami ni abby magkababata kami, mag bestfriend, biglang naging kami. Tas nong si cassie..
anton: siya ang nagligaw sayo?
Vince: pare ayokong mawala sakin si cassie
anton: Mahal mo nga siya. Hirap man paniwalaan pero mahal mo nga.. ngayon lang kasi kita nakitang nagkakaganyan
vince: anong ganito?
Anton: nag-aabala, nag-aalala..mukhang *****!
Vince; (natawa)
anton: basta pare suyuin mo lang, magtyaga ka lang!
Vince: (napaisip)
(Sa bahay nina cassie)
Vince: (nagdoorbell)
Yaya Elisa: (binuksan ang gate)
Vince: good evening po
yaya elisa: vince...
Vince: yaya andiyan po ba si cassie?
Yaaya Elisa: wala siya
vince: mag-aantay nalang po ako
yaya elisa: diba ayaw na ni cassie na nagpupunta ka dito sa bahay?
Vince: dito na lang po ako sa labas, mag-aantay
Yaya Elisa: bahala ka! (pumasok; sinirado ang gate)
Vince: (umupo sa labas)
(Ilang sandali)
May dumating na kotse)
Vince: (tumayo)
cassie; ethan: (bumaba ng kotse)
vince: cassie!
Cassie: anong ginagawa mo dito?
Vince: dinadalaw ka
cassie: wala akong sakit
vince: diba nasaktan kita? Ito ako babawi
cassie: vince dont flatter yourself! Wag mo ngang iispin na lahat ng to dahil sayo!
Vince: (napatingin kay ethan)ito ba? Siya ba ang dahilan kung bakit inaayawan mo na ako?
Ethan: pare Im Ethan hindi ako kalaban
vince: eh ano ka, kaibigan?
Ethan: yup. Kaibigan ako ni cassie
cassie: puwede ba Vince umalis ka na. Lets go ethan! (hinila si ethan papasok ng bahay)
vince: habang buhay mo na lang ba talaga akong ipagtatabuyan cassie?
Cassie: kung ayaw mong ipagtabuyan kita, wag mo na akong lapitan
vince: bakit ba ayaw mong akong bigyang ng chance? Hindi ko naman ihihiling sayo na mahalin mo ako agad, ang gusto ko lang maipakita sayong mahal kita.
Cassie: ibaling mo na lang sa iba ang pagmamahal mo
vince: pero ikaw ang gusto kong mahalin
cassie: pero ayoko ng mahalin ka pa
vince: kaya mas pipipliin mong magmahal ng iba?
Cassie: ewan ko. Hindi ko alam. Ang alam kolang gusto kong kalimutan ka. Kaya sana kalimutan mo na rin ako
vicne: hindi madali ang hinihingi mo
cassie: alam ko. Kasi hindi din naging madali skain ang lahat ng to (pumasok sa loob ng bahay)
ethan: (sinundan si cassie)
vince: (naiyak)
(Sa bahay nina vince)
Vince: (dumating)
Mommy Lucy: vince ano ba tiong sinumbong sakin ni abby na pinagpalit mo na daw siya don sa cassie na yon?
Vince: matagal na kaming *** ni abby ha?
Mommy Lucy: pero siya ang nababagay sayo
Vince: But I dont love her anymore at hindi kayo ang magkakapagsabi sakin kugn sino ang dpat kong mahalin Ma, dhil ako ang magdedesisyon non para sa sarili ko. (umakyat papunta sa room niya)
(Sa room ni vince)
Vince: (pumasok; tiningnan ang piktuce ni cassie na nasa side table niya) cassie mahal na mahal kita..pero bakit mas nasasaktan kita ngayon> mas magiging masaya ka ba kung palalayain na lang kita?
(Isang araw)
sa school
Cassie; Annie; Jorge: (lumabas ng room)
annie; Jorge: yesss ga graduate na tayo
vince: (nakasalubong sina cassie; ngumiti kay cassie)
cassie: (umiwas sa pagkakatingin kay vince) lets go guys! (umalis)
Annie; Jorge: (sinunandan si casie)
(Gabi)
sa bahay nina cassie
Cassie: (may kausap sa phone) ethan gabi na, ayoko ng pumunta ng park
ethan: (sa kabilang linya) psl cassie I need someone to talk to
cassie: o sige pupunta na ako diyan (inoff ang phone)
(Sa park)
cassie: (dumating)
vince: (nakaupo)
cassie: (nagtaka ng makita si vince)vince? Paanong?
Vince: (tumayo at nilingon si cassie) kinausap ko si ethan tas nagpatulong ako sa kanya kasi alam kong kung ako mag-aya sayo di ka pupuntahan
cassie: (paalis na sana)
vince: matatagalan din siguro bago tayo magkausap ulit.hindi mo na ako kelangan pang pagtabuyan dahil ako na mismo ang lalayo. Hindi para kalimutan ka kundi para bigyan ka ng sapat na panahon para maghilom yong mga sugat na naidulot ko sayo.at umaasa ako na pagkatapos non bubuksan mo na ulit ang puso mo para sakin at makapagsimula tayo ulit.
Cassie: (naiyak na humarap kay vince) gusto kitang patawarin.gusto kong kalimutan lahat ng sakit na naibigay mo sakin pero sa tuwing tinitingnan ko ang sarili ko sa salamin at nakikita ko ang mga pagbabago sakin naalala ko lahat, bumabalik lahat nong sakit.
Vince: Im sorry...kaya nga kahit mahirap para sakin Im letting you go for now. Habang binubuo mo ang sarili mo, habang inaayos ko ang buhay ko to deserve you.nakikita ko kasi habang minamahal kita mas lalo ka lang nasasaktan. Lahat nong ginawa ko para mabawi ka sana, kahit di mo tinangggap hindi ko pagsisishan yon. Years from now when I look back masasabi kong ginawa ko ang lahat para mabawi ko yong babaeng pinakamamahal ko. Sana kaht papno napagbayaran ko ang mga naging kasalanan ko sayo. Hindi ko kayang ibalik ang lahat, pero kung kaya ko lang sanahind kita sinaktan. Sana hind kita tinake for granted, sana na realize ko na mahal pala kita bago naging huli ang lahat, sana akin ka pa ngayon.
Cassie: (umiiyak)
vince: sana pagdating ng tamang panahon mahanap mo sa puso mo ang kapatawaran para sakin. Naalala mo ba nong sabay tayong magwish non sa falling star pero hindi ko sinabi ko sayo ang wish ko?
Cassie: (tumango)
vince: ang wish ko non na sana...tayo sa huli.hindi pa ako sigurado non sa naramdaman ko para sayo, ang sigurado lang non mahal mo ako. Tapos sabi ko anot anuman ang mangyari sana sa huli tayo pa rin. Na sana pag naramdaman ko ng mahal nakita eh mahal mo pa rin ako.umaasa pa din ako na may mga wish na nagkakatutuo, na may nga pangarp na natutupad pagdatign ng tamang panahon, at maaring hindi pa yon ngayon. (hinalikan sa noo si cassie) mahal na mahal kita cassie. Sana alam mo yon. Kung pipigilan mo ako, hindi ako aalis..pipigilan mo ba ako?
Cassie: (umiiyak habang umiiling)
vince: (pinipigilan ang pag-iyak saka umalis)
cassie: Im sorry Vince hindi kita kayang pigilan dahil hindi ko alam kung kaya pa kitang mahalin gaya ng dati. Magkakasakitan lang tayo.maybe we will end up hating each other.
(Graduation day)
Vince: (nilapitan si cassie) congratulations!
Cassie: congratulations din
vince: may ibibigay sana ako sayo
cassie: ano yon?
Vince: (hinawakan ang kamay ni cassie at inabot ang isang box) matagal din ang 4 years na magkakalayo tayo. Pero sana sapat na panahon na yon para mapatawad mo ako. Apat na taon mula ngayon maghihintay ako sayo sa park, kung darating ka at suot mo yan ibig sabihin nagkatutuo nga yogn wish ko na tayo sa huli. Pero kung hindi hindi ako magagalit sayo, ibig sabihin lang non nakita mo na yong taong gusto mong mahalin, at kahit na masakit buong puso kong tatanggapin yon dahil yon na nga siguro ang kabayaran sa mga kasalanan ko sayo kasi masasaktan mo ako ng sobra sobra.maghihintay ako sana dumating ka...(paalis na)
cassie: vince...
Vince: (napalingon kay cassie)
cassie: hindi ko maipapangako sayo na makakaratign ako, sabi mo nga mahaba ang 4 years maraming puwedeng mangyari..hindi man ako makaratign isipin mona lang nakalimutan ko na ang lahat, lahat ng sakit, ng galit, yong naramdaman ko para sayo, ikaw...na maybe hanggang dito na lang tayo, na maybe mas liligaya tayo sa piling ng iba, ng malayo sa isat-isa.
Vince: aasa pa din ako cassie na daratign ka...(Umalis)
cassie: (umiiyak)
(4 YEARS AFTER.........)
Sa mall
Cassie; Ethan: (naglalkad)
ethan: (sa kabilang linya) okey Im coming kasama ko lang si cassie. Sige bye! (inoff ang phone)
cassie: oo na, alam ko na, may date kayo ni julia. Sige na, umalis ka na
Ethan: hamak din lamang na pinagtatabuyan mo na ako eh aalis na lang ako. Bye Bes!
Cassie: bye!
Ethan: ah Bes
cassie: o bakit?
Ethan: sundin mo ang sinasabi ng puso mo. Malay mo this time mas magiging masaya ka na.pag pinakawalan mo pa to mare realize mo mas magiging masaya ka pala kung binigyan mo ulit ng chance ang sarili mong magign masaya eh baka huli na ang lahat. Magsisi ka! (umalis)
cassie: (napaisip)
(Sa park)
Vince: (nakaupo; patingin tingin sa relo; malungkot na tumayo)
Cassie: (dumangting suot ang necklace na bigay ni vince)naghihintay ka ba ng falling star?
Vince: cassie..(napangiti ng makitang suot ni cassie ang kuwintas)duamtign ka
cassie: pinilit kong kalimutan ka, sa 4 years na nagkalayo tayo sinubukan ko ring magmahal ng iba, pero sarili ko lang pala ang niloloko ko dahil kahit magpustahan tayo kung kaya ba kitang kalimutan o hindi, ako pa rin ang talo.
Vicne: pero ako ni isang araw na malayo tayo sa isat isa hindi kita kinalimutan, kasi ayokong kalimutan ka. Kahjit hindi mo sinasagot ang mga emails ko hindi ako nawalan ng pag-asa dahil sa puso ko alam ko matutupad rin yogn wish ko na makasama ka.
Cassie vince hindi ko alam kung kaya ko pang magmahal ulit gaya ng dati.
Vince: hindi ko hinihingi sayong mahalin mo ako ng sobra gaya ng dari. Dahil this time ako ang magbibigay non sayo. Basta sapat na sakin na andito ka, tinangggap mo ulit ako, at mahal mo ako kasi ako mahal na mahal kita.
Cassie: (tumango)
vicne: (niyakap si cassie) I love you so much cassie
cassie: (niyakap si vince) **** ka talaga kasi mahal pa rin kita eh...kita mo na nadevelop ka din sakin
vince: (natawa)
cASSIE; Vince: (nagyakap)
(May dumaang falling star....)
- T H E E N D -
Last edited by carol.34; Apr 16, 2011 at 06:03 PM.
Trailer: Epic From the creators of ICE AGE and RIO, EPIC tells the story of an ongoing battle between the forces of good, who keep the natural world alive, and the forces of evil, who wish to destroy it. view more
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Kilig Tweet
lumapit) cassie
h baby we have to go
