#denlie

[itsalwaysterfyinphiladelphia]

[mystiquemadness]

Written in the Stars -- Chapter 22

He opened his eyes. The first thing that came to his vision is the white ceiling and the mint-colored walls. On the far side of the room was a tv set. Tahimik ang paligid and he can only hear the faint sound of the aircondition units. Rays of sunlight were peeking from the blinds of the closed windows, ibig sabihin ay umaga na. Where is he? Tumingin siya sa kaliwa niya. There was a side table holding a fruit basket. May mini ref din at table malapit doon. An IV stand was beside his bed and when he looked at his left hand ay may nakakabit nga na dextrose. Naging malinaw na sa kanya, he was in a hospital. When he looked at his right, a big couch and a wooden cabinet was on the far side. There was another table holding the telephone and a few other things. Napansin din niya na may babae na nakadukdok sa kama niya. He can tell it was Lianne, she seemed to be sleeping. Alden tried to refresh his memory of the recent events. A lot of things has happened yesterday. Nabaril siya, Madi was caught, he went out of the hospital then he drove for two hours to Tagaytay to see Lianne. When he got there, nagmatigas ito na harapin siya, he waited under the cold rain for more than an hour pero hindi rin naman siya natiis nito. Then everything blacked out at hindi na niya alam ang sumunod na pangyayari. He's guessing dinala siya nito sa ospital at hindi iniwan. His heart warmed up at the thought. Lianne cares for him, he was sure of that. His right hand reached out and gently brushed a few strands of her hair away from her face. She made a small movement. Her eyes fluttered, shut, blinked again, then she fully opened it and their eyes met. "Thank God you're awake" she whispered. Bakas ang pag-aalala sa ekspresyon nito. "Hi" bungad niya. His voice sounded hoarse. "Hi" Lianne greeted back. Nag-aalangan ito na ngumiti sa kanya but she touched his arm. "Do you need anything? Do you want me to call the doctor?" tumayo ito pero pinigilan niya. "No, I'm fine.. I just need to drink" pakiramdam niya kasi ay tuyong tuyo ang lalamunan niya. Lianne got up and took the small bottled water on the table. Inalalayan siya nito sa pag-inom. He took a few sip. "How are you feeling? May masakit ba sayo?" tanong nito ng matapos siyang uminom. "Medyo may masakit lang dito sa ulo ko but it's bearable" She sat back on the chair, "Your head hit the ground when you fell but the doctor assured me it's just bruises at walang major trauma" "What happened?" he asked. Lianne's panicky voice was the last thing he could remember. "You fainted. Buti na lang may dumaan na security guard and I asked him to help me carry you to the car. Dinala kita dito sa ospital because you were burning up with fever and you were also bleeding. The doctor said some of your stitches popped open. You've lost blood so they had to do a blood transfusion" mahabang paglalahad nito. Wala siyang naaalala sa mga nangyari, he guess he was really unconscious. His wound still hurt a little pero hindi na ito kasing sakit tulad kagabi. "And I called your dad last night. They were so worried about you. Your mom and your sister drove all the way here kahit sobrang gabi na. They arrived past midnight" He groaned. He never got to explain to his parents what was going on at kung ano ang nangyari sa kanya after Raiza was freed. His sister probably have told them what happened. They must be really worried. "Nasan sila?" he asked. "Pinauwi ko na lang muna sila sa resthouse para makapagpahinga" Alden noticed she's wearing the same shirt and jeans she was wearing last night. That means magdamag siyang binantayan nito. She never left him. "Sana umuwi ka rin para nakapagpahinga ka ng maayos" he held her hand. Nahihiya siya dahil nakatulugan na nito ang pagbabantay sa kanya, nakatulog ito na nakadukdok sa kama. He could imagine how uncomfortable it was. "Natulog naman ako sa sofa kanina.." she said, glancing at the big couch behind her. "Tita Rio insisted on staying but I told her I don't want to leave. I wanted to be here when you wake up. I wanted to make sure you'll be okay" "You didn't have to" "But I wanted to" she said with absolute clarity. Lianne blinked and lowered her gaze. "When I saw you all soaked up and shaking, I felt bad and I was eaten up with guilt, kasalanan ko kung bakit ka nagkasakit. And narealize ko rin na I'm doing exactly what I did seven years ago.. shutting you out and refusing to hear what you have to say" He was relieved. Ngayon sigurado siya na hindi ito galit sa kanya. His eyes scanned over her appreciatively as he let her speak. "And then you passed out and I saw that you were bleeding. Natakot ako at sinisisi ko ang sarili ko at the same time.. I could never forgive myself kung may masamang mangyari sa'yo. I kept on praying for you to be fine. And I told myself that I will do anything you ask basta maging okay ka lang" "It wasn't your fault. This is because of Madi" salungat niya. Lianne doesn't have to blame herself dahil wala naman itong kasalanan. "I know.. Alam ko na ang totoong nangyari. Raiza filled me in on what really happened. Hanggang ngayon I find it hard to believe that she's capable of doing all of that" He nodded. Kahit siya ay hindi rin naisip na magagawa ni Madi ang lahat ng iyon, all because of him. "We can't really blame her, she's mentally unstable" he said. Kahit paano ay naaawa din naman siya sa sinapit ng dating kasintahan. "But why didn't you tell me about her threats? I would have understand" "Naisip ko na with her condition, she can do worse things and I couldn't risk that.. So I had to stay away para tigilan ka na niya. I have to make you safe" "I appreciate your concern Alden" her hand gently squeezed his. "But you're trying to be the hero pero ikaw naman ang napahamak" "Ako naman talaga ang puno't dulo ng lahat ng ito kaya di bale nang ako na lang ang masaktan, huwag lang ikaw.. I couldn't bear to see you get hurt" he replied. There was a long silence. He can see the flutter of different emotions running through her mind. After a long while, she spoke. "Life is so unfair ano? Kasi alam mo yun.. When we finally get what we want.. when we finally find our happiness, there's always someone that's trying to take it away. It's really hard.." she shook her head. "Yeah, it is" pagsang-ayon niya. "But we shouldn't just give up when it gets hard, that's when we should fight harder" ipinatong niya ang isa pa niyang kamay sa magkahawak nilang kamay. "I asked you to trust me because I know trust is something that will help us get through all this" Lianne looked down, breaking their eye contact. He can see that her face was now filled with remorse and guilt. "Alden I'm sorry if I didn't trust you enough dahil mas pinaniwalaan ko si Madi.." she confessed in a weak tone. "Pakiramdam ko ngayon I don't deseve your--" "Sshh.. Stop. It doesn't really matter to me now" he put his hand on her chin and forced her to look up at him. Nakita niya na nangingilid na ang mga luha nito. "What matters is how we feel about each other now. Do you still love me?" "Of course. I love you" she answered without hesitation as her tears rolled down her cheeks. "Nothing has changed, mula noon hanggang ngayon" He beamed at her. "That's all I wanted to hear" he said, wiping away her tears. "I love you too babe. I never stopped loving you and I never will" sinubukan niyang bumangon but he winced because of the pain from the wound on his side. Mabilis na napatayo si Lianne at inalalayan siya na bumalik sa pagkakahiga. "Don't move. Mahiga ka na lang muna please" deep concern was etched on her face. "I want to hug you" he said as he lay back on the bed. "You have no idea how much I miss you" It has only been two days simula nang umiwas at makipaghiwalay siya dito but for him it was like two long and agonizing months. She smiled and reached out to envelope him in a warm embrace. Gumanti din siya ng yakap. He missed her soft body that perfectly fits his. He missed feeling how her heart would beat frantically against his chest whenever they hug. He missed her heavenly sweet scent. He just missed everything about this woman. "I've missed you too babe" Lianne murmured as she give him a kiss on the forehead. "Sa noo lang? Is that how you show your boyfriend you miss him?" he playfully teased her and pointed at his lips insinuating her to kiss him there. Shaking her head, Lianne lightly hit him on the arm, "Alam mo mabuti pa magpahinga ka na lang" "Please..?" he pouted his lips and faked a sad expression. "Sandali lang.." her hands crossed over her chest. "You still have some explaining to do" "Huh? Tungkol saan?" nagtatakang tanong niya. He thought Raiza had already told her everything. "That night at the parking lot, I was there. I saw you kissing Madi. Is that also part of the script?" Alden actually wasn't surprised she would bring that up, he couldn't blame her though. "She kissed me, not the other way around" "But you let her, hindi ka man lang umiwas" "Babe, I thought we were passed the trust issues? Please understand I didn't really have a choice. She kidnapped my sister and I don't want to do anything stupid na maaaring magpahamak sa kapatid ko" paliwanag niya. In fact, gulong-gulo ang isip niya nung mga oras na yon. He didn't know what to do. "Naiintindihan ko naman, it's just that.. I don't know.. It really hurt me" He held her hands, "Believe me, that kiss didn't mean anything to me babe. If I could, I would change that" She was staring back at him, pinag-iisipan ang mga sinabi niya. He continued, "I think we should just forget about it and put it behind us or else paulit-ulit lang natin yung babalikan and it will only gonna mess us up" Lianne gave a deep sigh of resignation and nodded. "Alright, I trust you kaya simula ngayon I wont have a single inch of doubt in our relationship" He took her hand to his mouth and he kissed it. "It will be a long journey. We can't expect na magiging madali ang lahat but I'm telling you it's gonna be worth it" "I know.. And I believe you" she smiled at him. "I think it's time for you to get some rest.. kaya matulog ka muna para mabilis kang gumaling" He scoot over to the side to create a space and he tapped it, "Lie with me" "Huh? Babe, mamaya lang may nurse at doctor na magra-rounds dito, nakakahiya kapag nakita nila tayo" Alden shrugged his shoulders, "I don't really care what they think" "Hindi ka rin makakatulog ng maayos, this bed is too small for us" "This bed is just right. I thought you said you will do anything I ask basta maging okay lang ako?" "Yeah, but--" "Please? I just want to sleep wrapped in your arms right now" he said with a puppy-eyed look which he knows she couldn't say no to. "Fine.." Lianne agreed, wala na rin naman itong pagpipilian. She sat and lay on the bed next to him. "This is silly" Bahagya siyang tumagilid paharap sa kasintahan at iniyakap ang isang braso dito, "Silly things make life more interesting" A playful and sexy giggle was her only answer. She moved closer and she slipped her arm around him. With her lying close, his heart is bursting with happiness. There are no words that would describe how much he loves this woman. "If I haven't told you enough, I love you.. more than you could imagine. And you are the best girlfriend ever" he whispered to her ear. Lianne looked up and stared right back into him, her eyes reflecting love and pure bliss. She cupped his face, "I love you too babe.. It's always been you" Kahit hindi niya nakikita ang sarili, he can tell that he was grinning from ear to ear. He couldn't contain the joy he was feeling at the moment. Before she could protest, he stole a sweet lingering kiss on her lips. "Ikaw talaga!" marahan siya nitong pinisil sa pisngi. "Are you sure you don't need anything? Ayaw mong kumain?" He drew her body closer to him and contentedly closed his eyes. "I have you.. That's all I need" Hindi nila inaasahan ang pag-plead ng guilty ni Madi sa arraignment ng grave threat and illegal dentention case that Alden filed against her and her accomplices. But even if she didn't, they have solid evidences they can present to the court against them. But still, they were relieved dahil napadali ang kaso. Madi, Marco and Joel were sentenced of imprisonment though she was transferred into a psychiatric institution because of her mental condition. She pity her at hindi rin siya nagtanim ng galit dito, she honestly wishes her well. After a month they were both back on their normal grind, she in the office and him, busily promoting his movie. Ngunit sa kabila ng pagiging abala ni Alden, he still finds time to see her and spend time with her. Kagaya ngayon, they were driving to god knows where. Hindi niya alam kung saan sila pupunta because he insisted on keeping it as a surprise. They both agreed to set a date night wherein they would go out to eat, watch movie, go somewhere and do something new. They do it at least once a week. Their dates were always fun but just as long as they spend time together, that's enough for her. It was a fine night. Her eyes were fixed outside the car window. The road they were travelling seemed familiar, parang alam na niya kung saan siya balak dalhin ng kasintahan. Naramdaman niya ang pagdantay ng palad nito sa kamay niya na nakapatong sa hita niya. "Why are you so quiet?" he intertwined their fingers while his other hand remained on the steering wheel. "I'm just excited" He lifted and kissed the back of her hand, "So am I" Her guess was right. Alden took her into his ninong's property, their secret place where they have witnessed breathtaking sunsets. It has been years since the last time they went there. Pagkatapos kasi ng break-up nila ay hindi na siya nakabalik pa. As far as she could remember, the place used to be unspoiled. Ngayon, marami nang nabago dito. There was a brick path that leads from the entrance and probably all the way to the man-made lake. Flowering trees and ball lamps lined up that path. Frog grasses and wildflowers mostly covered the ground and there were wooden benches too which added to a park-like appeal. The property used to be a vast green land ngunit ngayon ay may nakatayo nang istruktura. A tall, white tower stood in the middle which serves as a lighthouse. On the far side, near the lake was a huge structure that seemed like a function hall. She was sure that the place was developed to be an event venue. She can actually envision a perfect garden wedding beside the lake. Despite the changes, the tranquility and nature feels of the place remains. "Babe, naaalala mo pa ba ang lugar na to?" Alden asked, breaking her silent inspection. "Oo naman. How can I forget this beautiful place? This is full of good memories" "And we're gonna make more good memories here" he held her hand tightly and they walk further into the property. "Wow" she stopped and exclaimed in admiration upon seeing the sight. Hundreds of fireflies lit up the big tree in front of them. They seemed to be dancing as they fly and float in the air of that breezy night. "Matagal na bang may mga alitaptap dito?" "Yeah, I guess so. Hindi lang natin nakikita noon kasi we usually leave after the sunset" "They look so magical" Lianne murmured, entranced. She fought the urge to run and catch some. "Like it?" "I love it. I could stand and stare at them all night" she said, still amazed. "I'm sure you wanted to but we still have a movie date" bulong nito na nagpalingon sa kanya. "Dito? Seryoso ka?" "Yup, tara" hinila na siya nito at inalalayan papunta sa direksyon ng lawa. A movie date here? Dapat sa sinehan sila pumunta o kahit sa condo na lang, they can watch DVDs there. But she didn't question him, hinayaan na lang niya si Alden sa kung ano man ang trip nito. Everything made sense when they got near the lake. Alden had set-up a big projector screen powered by a generator plus a perfectly comfortable-looking couch beside it. There are pizza, popcorn and drinks too. "Alden, you never fail to surprise me and impress me with your date ideas" Humarap ito sa kanya na nakangiti, "Because that exactly is my goal" She rested her forehead into his, "Thank you for all your efforts and grand gestures babe, sobrang naaappreciate ko lahat" she withdrew to look up at him. "Pero di na naman kailangan ng ganito, basta magkasama lang tayo sapat na sakin.. I would still enjoy doing nothing with you" "Babe, I'm glad to do all these things for you kaya hayaan mo lang ako.. Believe me, I'm happy that I can make you happy. Now, can we just relax and enjoy this night?" She beamed at him and agreed. Bakit nga ba niya ito pipigilan sa mga ginagawa nito? She should be delighted that he's doing his best to please her. Alden gave her the freedom to choose the movie they will watch. She had a variety of choices dahil madami itong dalang DVDs. She felt like watching something light, like a romantic comedy movie so she end up picking 50 First Dates. He also brought insect repellent lotion that they applied on their skin. Bilib na talaga siya dito, he came prepared. They cuddled closely on the couch and watched the movie. She's happy with how the night is progressing. A movie date beside the lake and under the stars was very romantic specifically because she's with the person she want to be with the most. What more can she ask for? This night is so perfect, hindi niya makakalimutan ang gabing ito. When the movie ended, the projector started playing something else. It showed a slideshow of their pictures together with their favorite song as a background music. "Babe, what's this for?" "Wala lang. I was in the mood the other night, so yan ang ginawa ko" Hindi niya napigilan na mapangiti, her boyfriend is definitely the sweetest. She was surprised to see stolen shots of her. One was when she was sleeping and her head was on his shoulder. Alden probably took it while on their trip back from their vacation. Some of the pictures were of her on the beach, while inside their favorite restaurant, while waiting on a line, while she was texting, watching tv, reading a book, cooking, listening to music and a few more of her sleeping. Lianne had no idea how he was able to sneak and take those pictures of her. She guess her boyfriend was watching her all the time. That brought a warm feeling inside her. Nang matapos ang slideshow akala niya ay tapos na but the projector kept on playing. This time, it was a recorded video and Cheska was talking. “Alden and Lianne, if there would be someone who knows about your love story, siguro ako na yon. I was there basically the entire time. Lianne confides in me noon kahit hanggang ngayon" she slightly covered her mouth with her hand as if telling a secret, "I can assure you Alden, ikaw lang ang lalaking minahal niya" Cheska giggled and continued. "As soon as I saw you together I realized that you are made for each other and after a long time I can see that I was right. The deep love you both have for each other has been strengthened over time. Sobrang dami nyo nang pinagdaanan, like recently, pero hindi kayo natinag. What I love about your relationship is seeing..“ "Babe, what's this? Bakit may ganito?" hindi na siya nakatiis pa kaya nagtanong na siya. "Basta, manood ka na lang muna. Your questions will be answered later" a mischievous smile was pasted on his lips. Puzzled and confused, bumalik na lang siya sa panonood. Cheska went on with her witty speech then Raiza spoke right after her and then his friend Alex after. She realized that it was made to be like a vtr interview. Even their parents spoke too. She wondered how he convinced her parents to do it, sa pagkakaalam niya ay mahiyain ang mga ito sa camera. "Ano ba talagang meron? Para saan to?" "Just come with me" tumayo na si Alden at inalalayan na rin siya sa pagtayo. "Teka, saan?" kinakabahang sagot niya. She knew he was up to something. He was acting a little strange tonight. Alden gave her a reassuring smile, "You'll find out" Dinala siya ng kasintahan sa labas ng function hall. Nagulat siya dahil hindi naman ganon ang ayos nito kanina nung dumaan sila. Now there are sparkling lights that hang from the branches of the trees. May nakalatag na rin na red carpet and there are flowers everywhere. She was also surprised to see the people closest to them standing there. Both their parents were present, kasama rin si Raiza. Even their close friends were there, Alden's friends like Alex, Jake, his handler and his p.a. Pati sina Arnie at Cherry at ang bestfriend niyang si Cheska with her husband Drew. "Ano'ng ginagawa nila dito?" "I invited them" "Huh? Bakit?" Hinila siya nito papunta sa gitna, where the spotlight was and when they reached it he stopped to face her. "Coz I want them all to witness this memorable event" "What do you mean?" dumako ang paningin niya sa mom at dad niya, pati na rin kay Cheska at sa iba pa, they all looked happy and excited. Alden took her hands, tila kinakabahan ito nang magsalita, "When we met, I had no idea you would impact my life so much. You've changed it in ways that I never imagined. I've been with a few girls before but I never knew what love was until I found you. Ikaw ang nagturo sa akin ng tunay na kahulugan nito. You showed me the type of love and affection people wish they could experience" Lianne wondered what was happening. She felt overwhelmed at hindi na rin siya makapag-isip ng maayos. Nagpapalipat-lipat ang tingin niya kay Alden at sa mga tao sa paligid. "I thank God for letting you walk back into my life after that awful seven years. Pakiramdam ko nga para akong nabuhay ulit. Pero muli rin tayong sinubok, I was so frightened. But I told myself that I would never lose you again kaya ginawa ko ang lahat para hindi yon mangyari coz I honestly couldn't imagine my life without you" he continued, his eyes were on hers the entire time. Bumundol ang kaba sa dibdib niya, she can actually hear her heartbeat inside her ears. 'Oh God! Is he going to propose?' her mind screamed at her. "We've been through hell and back and yet we're here, stronger than before. I believe that we're destined to be together.. Our love story is written in the stars" he looked up in the night sky with a smile on his face. Her eyes were fixed on him. She was trying to grasp every word that he's saying. Parang may delay sa utak niya dahil hindi agad nito ma-process ang mga sinasabi ni Alden. "I love you Lianne, with everything I have. And if you need to hear the reasons why I do, I can go on all night" he paused and glanced at the others who were silently listening, "But I know everybody wants me to just go ahead and ask you already so here it goes.." 'He's going to propose!' it echoed inside her head. Hindi niya alam ang gagawin but she doesn't want to freak out so she tried to take a few deep breaths to calm herself. "I want to be the last voice you hear every night and I want your face to be the first thing I wake up to every single morning" he took a small box from his pocket at binuksan iyon. He kneeled and hold out the box in front of her, "Julie Anne San Jose, I can't imagine growing old with anyone else but you. Will you marry me?" Lianne caught her breath, she was rendered speechless. The last four words set a cascade of different emotions into her. It was overwhelming and it was as if everything was in slow motion. Nanlabo ang mata niya because drops of liquid flowed from it and wet her cheeks. They were tears of joy. She was overjoyed. "Is that a yes?" Alden asked after awhile when he didn't hear a respond. A sob escaped from her when she nodded, "Si, oui, yes, oo.. In every language" Alden instantly got up on his feet and slipped the diamond ring on her finger. It fit perfectly on her. Loud applause and cheers were heard the same time fireworks shoot up and explode in the sky. Then he grabbed her towards him and his lips claimed hers. They shared a passionate kiss which made the cheers go louder. Niyakap siya nito pagkatapos. "You've just made me the happiest man on earth right now" he whispered to her habang pinupunasan ang pisngi niya na basa ng luha. "You caught me by surprise. How did you.." hindi na niya natapos pa ang sasabihin because everyone swarmed to congratulate them. Lahat ay masaya para sa kanilang dalawa. They all gave her and Alden warm hugs and best wishes. Halos hindi iyon matapos-tapos. "Okay guys, it's time for celebration!" Alex shouted, popping a bottle of champagne. "Let's all get in" Cheska instructed, motioning everyone to get inside the function hall. "Sa loob na lang natin ituloy ang celebration. There are plenty of food and drinks there" Kaagad din namang sumunod ang lahat sa mga sinabi nito, leaving just the two of them there. "So everyone knew about this?" tanong niya. "Nalaman lang nila when we invited them yesterday" inakbayan siya ni Alden as they headed towards the entrance of the function hall. "Cheska was the first to know and then yung families natin because I asked for your hand.. But Cheska and I have been planning and working on this for almost a month. I'm just waiting for the perfect time" Lianne stopped on the edge of the stairs. "Wow. I was really clueless" For a month, she didn't notice anything different or strange between the two. She never once suspected they were concocting something like this. "Nung araw na pinuntahan kita sa Tagaytay, I talked to Cheska first. I asked her a favor and that is tulungan niya ko sa proposal. Pagkatapos kasi ng pinagdaanan ko that day, I realized na hindi ko na makakaya na mawala ka pa sa akin. She didn't need further convincing dahil pumayag siya agad. She helped me, from suggesting the proposal idea, to finding the right place to do it, to filming the vtr and to choosing the perfect engagement ring" mahabang paliwanag ni Alden. "I wonder how she managed to keep it from me for that long. We never had secrets" "I made her promise to keep her mouth shut because I want this moment to be as natural as it can be" She agreed on that part. It might not turn out romantic kung may alam siya tungkol dito. She's really grateful because of his extended effort just to make this proposal unforgettable and special. "Thank you.." she gently cupped his cheeks and looked at the dark pools of his eyes. "Noon, ipinagdadasal ko lang na sana God would give me a guy I can spend the rest of my life with dahil ayokong tumandang mag-isa.. But He gave me more than what I asked for.. He gave me the best. God is good. I'm so blessed to have a wonderful man to be my lifetime partner" Alden flashed her his megawatt smile. "God is good indeed because he gave me the most amazing woman.. He gave me the girl of my dreams" For a while she just stared at his handsome face, thinking how lucky she was to find someone like him. Then she tiptoed para halikan ito. Lianne lightly kissed his lips as her hands circled around his neck. He then passionately kissed her back and wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her closer to his body. They made sure to silently communicate how much they love each other in that kiss. Someone intentionally cleared her throat na nagpatigil sa kanila. They turned and saw Cheska standing by the doorway. "You two lovebirds, pwede pumasok muna kayo? Everyone's waiting for you. Baka isipin nila na you ditched your own party" "Nice timing" Alden said sarcastically. Cheska chuckled, "I'm sorry for the interruption.. Well, after you get married you'll have all the time in the world to do that and more" Lianne looked up at him, sabay pa silang napangiti as they exchange meaningful glances. "Yes, that's right" he agreed. "We have forever to ourselves" And they're definitely gonna spend it kissing, hugging, holding hands and loving each other endlessly dahil wala nang anuman o sinuman ang makakapaghiwalay sa kanila. Her eyes shifted back to her fiancé. Hindi pa rin nabubura ang ngiti nito. She slipped her arm on his waist at sabay na silang pumasok sa loob. They stood face to face, his full height loomed over her. She took a moment to take him in. Alden was a sight of perfection, wearing his gray tux and his signature dimpled smile. She looked up at him and he was staring lovingly back at her, dazzled. They held each other's hand and began to utter their vows in unison, "Honeybabe, from this day forward I promise..." She continued, "To do anything to make you happy" "To tell you funny stories when you're sad" dugtong naman nito. "To take care of you when you're sick" "To cuddle with you when you get cold" "To cook for you even if most of the times I burn the food" she said which earned a few snicker from the crowd. "To sing for you even if I sound like a crushing metal or a howling dog" he countered. Everyone inside the church erupted in laughter. No one could deny his humor. When the noise died down Lianne continued. "I promise to take a break from reality and let in a little romance" "I promise to surprise you with flowers and hold your hand" "To teach you my guitar and piano expertise so I wont have to endure listening when you attempt to play" Lianne said teasingly. "To teach you my car expertise so I wont have to answer all your questions when your car break down" he teased back. She rolled her eyes at him bago sumagot, "To support you in your career and whatever you choose to do" "To work hard and pay attention to your every needs "To put you first" He nodded, "To put you first" "I promise to constantly tell you I love you and need you" His hand tightened on hers, "I promise to constantly show you I care and that you matter" She grinned, "To always hold you in my heart" "To always keep you in my thoughts" "I promise to love you unconditionally" "I promise to love you back unconditionally" Her gaze locked with him. "To walk with you hand in hand.." "Wherever our journey leads us.." his voice was filled with love. "Living, learning.." "Loving, together.." "Forever" magkasabay nilang sagot. She woke up with a smile on her face. She dreamt about it again. Actually, their marriage vows were the most clear and vivid memory she had of their wedding. Most of the event on that special day passed by like a blur. Marahan siyang nag-inat at naghikab while uttering a short prayer of gratitude for another day. She smiled, remembering she had a great night last night. Actually, the past four nights were the best of her life. Lianne suddenly sensed eyes on her kaya dumilat na siya. Alden was beside her, lying on his side with his head propped up against his hand and watching her. "Good morning Mrs. Faulkerson a.k.a. Mrs. Richards" nakangiting bati nito. "Good morning" she greeted back. Tinitigan niya ang asawa and her brows furrowed a bit. His smile faltered, "Bakit?" "I just realized na for three consecutive days I always wake up to you watching me sleep. Alam mo babe, it's starting to get a little.. uhm.. creepy" "Oh. I'm creepy now huh?" he muttered sullenly. She chuckled. "I was just playing" naglalambing na bawi niya. Umusog siya palapit upang yakapin ito. "I didn't mean it that way" Narinig niya ang mahinang pagtawa nito. He let her use his arm as a pillow then he kissed her forehead. "So why do you always watch me sleep?" "Gusto ko lang panoorin ka. You look so peaceful and happy and it's very entertaining when you talk" "I'm definitely not sleeptalking!" Alden's loud laughter filled the hotel suite they were staying at. He tried hard to suppress it when he earned a killer look from her. Naging seryoso ito. "I wanna cherish every second that you're here with me. Subconsciously I worry that when someone slapped me hard I'll realize that it was all an illussion or baka sa susunod na paggising ko wala ka na sa tabi ko" Tumingala siya upang tingnan ito, "Hindi ako mawawala. Reality check babe, we're married" After the night of the proposal, Alden posted their engagement photo on his instagram account. She guess he was just extremely happy and excited that's why he did that. It became a huge showbiz news. At first, karamihan sa mga fans ni Alden ay hindi tanggap ang nangyari lalo na at may kalove team ito. She received heavy bashing and criticisms ngunit hndi niya rin naman masisisi ang mga ito because Alden and her had kept their relationship private so it came as a surprise to them. He agreed for an interview the next day to answer all the questions regarding his engagement and about her -- his fiancée. Doon ikinuwento nito ang istorya nila, pati na ang mga pinagdaanan nilang mga pagsubok. He also said that he has never been happier in his entire life than he is now. That was when his fans understood and accepted. Others also expressed well-wishes and support. Marami rin ang nagsabi na naging inspirasyon ang love story nila because it was a proof that true love does exist. Apat na buwan ang naging preparation ng kasal nila. Although he is a public figure, maayos naman nilang napakiusapan ang media na gawing pribado ang kasal. They want a simple and solemn wedding with their family and friends and they gave it to them. Now, they are four days married and on their third day of a week-long honeymoon in Bali. It was also their first out of the country trip as a married couple. His soft voice broke her away from her thoughts. "I know.. But it still feels so surreal kasi dati pinapangarap ko lang to" "Yeah" she agreed. Minsan naiisip din niya, it was too good to be true. "Parang hanggang ngayon hindi pa rin totally nagsi-sink in sa akin na mag-asawa na tayo" "Let's stay in today" Alden suggested. He was staring at her with an amused look. "Bakit? I thought we had this day planned? Mamamasyal tayo diba?" "Well, I just thought para totally magsink in na mag-asawa na tayo" his voice turned huskily soft, "we should stay in bed all day and do what married couples do" "Ah ganon?" Lianne knew what his suggestive comments were implying. She hit him on his chest. "Aray!" Inirapan niya ito. She leaned back on the bed and folded her arms across her chest. "Baka makalusot lang naman babe" nangingiting sagot nito. "But kidding aside, I want us to have many babies" "Ilan? Two or three?" "No. Six" "Six?" she exclaimed incredulously. "Not with me" "So sa iba pwede? You're giving me the permission to play the field" Matalim na tingin ang ibinigay niya dito like she was ready to murder him. "Don't you dare Alden" He laughed out loud, pinning her to his side. "I wouldn't dare or even think about it" She trusts him so she immediately relaxed with his words. Alam niya na nagbibiro lang ito, he just couldn't break his habit of teasing her. "Palibhasa kasi hindi naman kayong mga lalaki ang nanganganak" "Babe kung posible lang naming akuin yun, we will do it para hindi kayo mahirapan" "Kaso hindi pwede" "Yeah, never heard of a man who got pregnant or gave birth. Saan namin ilalabas yung baby?" Sabay silang natawa sa sinabi nito. "But seriously babe, a mini you and me would be perfect. Pero kung isa lang, okay lang din. Kung ilan ang ibibigay sa atin ni God magiging masaya ko" he murmured softly, drawing her into his arms again. Alden adores kids kahit noon pa man kaya sigurado siya na he will make a great father someday. She wants to have a mini him, a little Richard Faulkerson III and they can call him thirdy. She smiled. Who would have thought they would end up together sa dinami-dami ng pinagdaanan nila? Lianne leaned her cheek against his chest, circling one arm around his body. "Pano kaya kung hindi tayo nagkakilala?" He frowned. "I guess, my life would be empty. But I believe eventually, fate will bring our paths together" "You're right.. Kung hindi man ngayon, maybe in another lifetime" "But we have each other now" he grinned, as his hand gently brushed her arm. "And right now, I'm at the point where every aspect of my life is perfect. Love, family, career, wala na akong mahihiling pa" She looked up at his face. Mababakas ang kaligayan sa mga mata nito. Her hand lifted to smooth his ruffled hair into place. "I want to hold your hand, snuggle on the couch, talk about whatever and kiss your lips every single day" she said. Napangiti siya sa reaksyon nito. He was smiling like an idiot. "Kahit pa matanda na tayo?" his eyebrow shot up questionningly. "Kahit pa matanda na tayo" she asserted. He shifted his position and in a matter of seconds he was above her. "We had our ups and downs but I wouldn't change them for anything in the world" Sang-ayon siya sa sinabi nito dahil ang mga yon ang nagpatatag sa relasyon nila. All her other thoughts were silenced when he kissed her. His lips moved gently on her soft ones and she eagerly kissed him back. Her heart wouldn't stop pounding from inside her chest as their lips move in sync. He tasted so good and it felt right to kiss him. Alden softly bit her lower lip on purpose which stole a moan from her. He definitely know how to set her in motion. He broke the kiss, tumingin ito sa mga mata niya, his eyes were filled with love and desire. "I love you" he whispered huskily. "I love you too" she ached for more of his lips so before he could open his mouth to speak again, she grabbed him by his neck and kissed him passionately. Lianne knows he was expecting it. She can actually feel him smiling through their kiss. She sighed. She will never get tired of this, not in a million years. There's nothing more she would ask for because everything she need is right here, with him. She was his, and he was hers, forever. THE END _____________________________________________________ Author's Note: I know what you were all thinking.. FINALLY natapos din! Hahaha Alam ko madami ang nainis at naimbyerna sa akin, sorry po talaga. But seriously, thank you for being so patient. I wanna say a BIG big big THANK YOU to everyone who supported this story, sa wattpad or kahit sa tumblr. It has been a long journey, salamat sa pagsama ninyo sa akin on my first attempt of writing a romance story. I have learned so much from it and met new friends. Sa mga silent readers like Heyzl, Daren, Zane, Margareth, Superjabs, Honey, Angel, Sam (sorry sa iba, di ko na kayo maisa-isa) sa mga anons, salamat. Thank you din to all the constant likers sa tumblr at voters sa wattpad na talagang as in nagla-like or nagvo-vote sa BAWAT CHAPTERS like adiklangatproud, denliefanatic, Raezen, Elcee, ftwjaps, flamebreezy, Jhoanna, japsfan, sunnyserendipity, Anne, and most specially si Joycey, my consultant/critique/adviser rolled into one, thank you! I can't explain how happy you all made me feel. Ang lakas maka-boost ng confidence na may nakaka-appreciate ng ginagawa mo. I dedicate this to all of you who took time to read this story, specially for the DenLie fans or Julie Anne fans out there. It has been an honor to share WITS with you. Til the next story, I guess. :) Spread the love! ♥♥

[mystiquemadness]

Written in the Stars -- Chapter 21

Chapter 21 "Agent Robles" he greeted. "Sir" "I'm sorry if I dismissed you last night" he apologized. Being the professional artist that he is, he couldn't just leave his commitments sa kabila ng mga pangyayari. They were shooting the final scenes of their movie last night. "Kinailangan kong bumalik sa shooting.. So, is there any development?" "My men are still keeping an eye on your girlfriend. Kanina lang ay nagreport sila and so far wala namang any untoward incident for the past 24hours. Last night, after work, she just went straight home so she's safe" sagot nito sa kabilang linya. Relief filled him, "Good. Ituloy nyo lang ang pagbabantay" Agent Robles is an NBI special agent. Right after the incident nang muntikan ng masagasaan si Lianne, he consulted and hired his services. He learned that it was done on purpose, it was a threat. And there's no way he would let anything bad to happen to her. "We will, but we still don't have a lead on the location of your sister" Alden's hand firmly grasped his phone. Nakadama siya ng pag-aalala para sa kapatid. "We have to get her as soon as possible" "Medyo mahihirapan tayo na itrack sila. I checked the car's owner sa LTO at nalaman ko na fake ang ginagamit na plate number. They could be using another fake plate. But I've already coordinated with and alerted my colleagues about that black, honda city car" the agent's voice on the other line was clear and strong. Raiza went out for an overnight, they will be staying in a classmate's place pero hindi iyon natuloy kaya nagpasya itong umuwi na lang. She was waiting for a cab when she was forcefully dragged into a car. According to a witness, it was a black car. They have learned that it was the same car that almost run Lianne over. Alden know who was behind all of it. Last night, Madi waited for him in the basement parking area to inform him na hawak nito ang kapatid niya. She assured him that just as long as sumunod siya sa kagustuhan nito, his sister will be fine. Hindi na muna niya iyon ipinaalam sa mga magulang niya, he didn't want them to be worried. He consulted the NBI and they concocted a plan. Alden had thought about everything and now he is ready to make Madi pay for it. "I've already called Madi. Alam ko na kung nasaan siya. She gave me the address" Nang makatakas kasi ito mula sa rehab facility ay hindi na ito umuwi sa sarili nitong bahay o kahit sa bahay ng magulang nito. Maybe she thought if they knew she escaped they would turn her over. And now she was hiding in a different place. "That's good. Things are falling into place. We need to get hold of her para madakip din natin ang mga kasabwat niya and get your sister the soonest time possible" his baritone voice was full of determination. "Do you think doon din nila dinala ang kapatid ko?" "There's an eighty percent chance, unless meron pa siyang ibang bahay na pwedeng pagtaguan" They already checked her house pero walang bakas na may tao doon. "I told her na pupuntahan ko siya ngayon. What should I do?" "We all know she's unstable so we have to plan everything carefully. We have all the evidences to seize her" "Okay, I'll stay in contact" "Sige sir, I will just brief and alert my men" "Alright agent. Bye" he ended the call. "Yeah, I just arrived an hour ago. I didn't know na malaki ang place nila Drew dito, and the view is nice" nilibot niya ang mata sa paligid. It was located in Tagaytay highlands, with a dazzling view of Taal lake and Batangas mountains. She needed some place to get away even just for the weekend, feeling niya kasi ay hindi niya kayang magstay sa condo knowing Alden was just next door. Even her unit reminds her of him and she needed a change of environment. So when Drew and Cheska offered their family's resthouse, she accepted it. "Maraming beses na akong nakapunta dyan and I fell in love with the place everytime" Cheska said while busily chopping veggies in her kitchen. They were video chatting via skype. It was a good thing she brought her laptop, she also needed to constantly check on her emails for work. Sinadya niya kasing i-off ang cellphone. "This is the perfect place to escape the noise of the city at para makapag-isip" she was on the veranda of the spanish-colonial style home. She opted to stay outside because of the cool and fresh air. Cheska paused from what she was doing and looked at the webcam, "Yeah, you need a breather. I'm sorry kung hindi kita nasamahan ngayon" "Don't be, naiintindihan ko naman. Things are different now na may asawa ka na, you have your wife duties" "Yep, eto nga I'm preparing lunch for Drew. I'm not complaining though, I love cooking for him, he's very appreciative" nakangiting sagot nito. Drew is a good and loving man. She was glad to know that her friend has found her happiness with him. But it was the opposite for her because she was alone and broken. She wondered when or if she'll ever find her own happiness at all. Her lips curved into a wry smile, "Bakit pa nga ba kami pinagtagpo ulit ano? Why do we have to get our second chance kung maghihiwalay lang din pala kami?" "Maybe everything was just a test" Cheska answered. "A test?" she shook her head. "Alam mo naisip ko, maybe it just wasn't the right time for me and Alden. And maybe it never will be" "Lianne, minsan mapaglaro lang talaga ang tadhana but it doesn't mean you should stop playing. Pano ka mananalo kung susuko ka agad? You shouldn't have ranaway like that" She closed her eyes and sighed. Nasasabi iyon ng kaibigan dahil hindi ito ang nasa kalagayan niya. "I gave up not because I can't do it. I gave up dahil narealize ko na.. no matter how hard I try, it just couldn't be" Cheska sat on the chair and started talking in a serious tone. "Hindi mo naman kailangang magparaya. And just because Alden is having a baby doesn't mean he has to leave you. You and him can still be together, kayo ang nagmamahalan. Hindi niya kailangang pakasalan o pakisamahan si Madi just to be a father to their child. He just have to support the child financially. He just have to be there as a father, ibigay ang lahat ng pangangailangan ng anak niya.. yung oras, pagmamahal, atensyon, everything the child needs from a father. He is only responsible to his child and not the mother" "Cheska, I love Alden and it's really hard for me to live without him but if I do that I'll be living in guilt. Alam ko ang struggles ng isang anak living with just a single parent. A family is what every child needs at yun ang isang bagay na ayokong agawin sa isang inosenteng bata. Isa pa, pano pa ako lalaban kung siya na mismo ang sumuko? He chose his child and I'm not blaming him for that" mahabang paliwanag niya. "The problem with him is he's a coward, he didn't even fight for you. He gave you up ng basta na lang, without any explanation. At kung hindi mo pa nalaman kay Madi ang dahilan you'll still be kept in the dark" Cheska said angrily, her round eyes narrowed to slits. Lianne remained silent. That was one thing she couldn't understand. Alam niya at naramdaman niya na mahal siya nito ngunit hindi man lang siya nito ipinaglaban. The image of them kissing and hugging flashed back into her mind. It cut deep into her heart. Hindi na niya iyon sinabi sa kaibigan. Cheska would be furious if she knew. Alden asked her to trust him but after what happened parang hindi na rin niya kayang paniwalaan pa kahit isang salita mula dito. "I guess you two need to talk again" her friend said. Lianne was not sure if she'll have the strength to face him or much more talk to him but she nodded. "In time.. but for now, I just want to breathe and get away" "Sige, if that's what you want.. Are you sure you'll be okay there by yourself?" nag-aalalang tanong nito sa kanya. She forced a smile, "Yeah, I'll be fine. Gusto ko rin naman munang mapag-isa" "Alright. Don't do anything stupid" nilagay pa nito ang kamay sa bewang. She sniffed, "How noble of you to say that" Cheska chuckled, "I was kidding, Kilala kita, you're one brave and smart woman" She sighed. She wish she really was. "Thanks for always being there for me Cheska" "You're my bff so I will always be here whatever it takes, whatever you're going through" nakangiting sabi nito. "And I appreciate it. A lot. Really" she smiled a genuine smile. "I know you're gonna get through this. You're one of the bravest person I know. Remember I'm just a skype away okay?" Lianne smiled. At least there was something to be grateful for. She has a friend who will stay by her side even if the whole world leave her. Alden settled and finalized their plans first before driving to the address that Madi gave him. He didn't expect it would be this serious and never thought that Madi would go to this extent. His gaze went to the rearview mirror. Agent Robles' car was trailing behind him. He needed a back-up kung sakaling hindi umayon ang pangyayari sa mga plano nila. The memory of the conversation that started it all was still clear and vivid inside his head. Nasa La Union siya noon kasama si Lianne sa beach resort when Madi called him. Bahagya pa siyang lumayo sa kasintahan and took the call. "Madison" "Alden" she croaked. "Can you come over please? I need you" He was thinking of cutting the call but Madi sounded so weak and upset. Maybe something has happened to her. "Are you okay?" "I'm not okay. After everything I feel like I'm in hell. Alden I miss you so much.. And I'm terribly sorry babe, please forgive me. I'll do everything you want just please please come back to me" He expelled a deep breath. Hindi niya alam kung ano na ang nangyari kay Madi. The last time they talked was when she visited him after escaping from rehab. Akala niya ay naintindihan at natanggap na nito ang mga sinabi niya na nagtutuldok sa relasyon nila. But here she goes again. "Madi napatawad na kita but I'm afraid we're not getting back together. We are better off as friends" "No, we were good together at kaya nating ibalik yun. We can be happy like before" "I'm really sorry. Gaya ng sabi ko the last time, I dont want to give you false hopes. Some things aren"t just meant to be. Please understand" "No.. No.. I'll beg you if I have to, just have me back" "You're being foolish" "I'm foolish and stupid because I love you. I can't go on another day without you. Mas gugustuhin ko pang mamatay--" "Don't even think about it!" he muttered. The last thing he wanted was Madi thinking about taking her own life. It angers him because it was just plain stupid. There was a long silence on the other line. Alden continued in a gentler tone, "Look, I don't wanna talk about this. I've already made up my mind Madison.. Sana matanggap mo ang desisyon ko. And please continue your treatment, makabubuti yun para sa'yo" He was about to hang up when Madi spoke. "Do you think I'm dumb and clueless about what's happening? Alam ko nang ipinagpalit mo ako sa ibang babae" she said in a chilly tone. "What?" "I know where you are right now, magkasama kayo ni Lianne sa isang beach house sa La Union. That bitch!" her tone was equipped with disgust. "Don't dare call her that" "I can call her whatever the hell I want. Alden as long as I'm here, you can never be happy with her or any other woman" Her voice was so cold that it sent a shiver down his spine. Lumingon siya kay Lianne, she was still sitting on the beach mat, eyes on her phone. Natapos na ang pakikipag-usap nito kay Cheska. He turned his back on her and spoke on the phone, "None of this was her fault, huwag mo siyang sisihin. She's not the reason why we broke up. Madi, our relationship has always been dysfunctional, it was not working and the best thing to do is to end it" "Stop reasoning out!" she screamed. "Basta ang alam ko ay inagaw ka niya sakin" "She never did such a thing. Kung alam mo lang how she think about you--" She cut him off, "Leave her and come back to me" her voice was unwavering. She made it sound like it was a demand. "No, I'm sorry. I wont do that" "Yes, you will. I'm telling you Alden, one of these days ikaw na mismo ang kusang babalik sa akin" He was stunned by what she had just said but he quickly recovered and it was replaced with irritation. "It's not gonna happen" "Don't be too sure babe" she answered amusedly. "Just move on Madi" he said with finality. Before hitting the end button he swore he heard her laughing. Alden shook his head after remembering that conversation. That day, he simply brushed off and completely pushed it off his mind. Hindi niya noon naisip na may ibang ibig sabihin pala ang mga huling sinabi nito. It confounded him how she went from being sad, to cold and angry in a span of minutes. One moment she was begging him and the next she was demanding. He thought it was her bipolar tendencies going off but now he was sure that she had lost it, she's out of her mind. The girl probably had a breakdown and now she had gone psycho. Madi called him on the night after the car incident, confirming she was behind it, that she paid someone to do it. Sinabi rin nito na hindi siya magdadalawang isip na gawin ulit iyon kay Lianne and next time, she wouldn't miss. Madi threatened that Lianne and anyone close to him would suffer kung hindi niya ito babalikan. It confirmed his conclusion that she's crazy. Right after reading her texts, he contacted the NBI and asked for protection, not for himself but for Lianne. And last night, Madi kidnapped his sister that's why he made up his mind na sundin ang kagustuhan nito. And now here he was, delivering himself to Madi. There are no other options but to do it. Bago siya bumaba ng sasakyan ay nilingon muna niya si Agent Robles at ang mga kasama nito sa may di kalayuan, the man gave him a nod. Alden took a deep breath and walk towards the front door. Sa isang subdivision siya pinapunta ni Madi. Hindi pa ganon kadami ang mga bahay na nakatayo doon at hindi rin mahigpit ang security sa entrance ng subdivision. He studied the place. The house where Madi was staying is a two storey, american style home. He noticed that it is isolated, malayo ito sa iba pang bahay. The black car was nowhere to be seen. Before he could reach the front door and knock ay bumukas na ito. Madi came out all-smiles and gave him a hug. "Babe! I heard your car so I hurried to see you. Come in" she clung her arms to his and guided him in. Alden silently followed her, studying the interior as they walk inside. The house is basically empty except for a big couch in the middle of the living room which signifies that no one is actually living there. "This is a friend's place, she allowed me to stay here. Dati dito siya nakatira but she moved in to a condo. Ibinebenta na niya kasi ito so that explains why wala ng mga gamit.. Come on, let's sit" she sat on the couch, pulling him to sit beside her. "Where's Raiza?" agad niyang tanong. "Don't worry about her. She's upstairs. But Marco had to bound and gag her, masyado kasi siyang maingay" He caught his breath, his sister is probably scared but he was glad knowing she was kept here. He's certain that by this time, Agent Robles is now instructing his men on what to do. Kinabitan kasi siya nito ng mini microphone upang marinig ang usapan nila. "Is she okay?" She shrugged her shoulders, "Well, you've been good so she's been taken cared of" "I'm here now then do your part of the bargain, let her go Madi" "Uh-uh, don't be too eager, we'll come to that" Madi grinned meaningfully. "Anyway, Lianne saw us talking last night" "What?" his heart skipped a few beats. If she saw them talking then nakita din nito nang halikan siya at yakapin ni Madi. He can imagine how painful it was for her and worse, baka iniisip nito na kaya siya nakipaghiwalay dito ay upang balikan si Madi. "She even confronted me and told me to stay away" she broke out in a whole-hearted laugh. "She was so ready to fight for you" "You should have just left Lianne alone" "Inaway niya din ako so I told her I'm pregnant. That put her to her rightful place" It took a few seconds before it registered to him. Napatayo siya. "You told her what?!" "That look of shock, disappointment and hurt in her face was sooo priceless. Poor girl. Well, she deserve that" she giggled at the thought of it. She couldn't be pregnant, he was sure about that. It has been months since the last time they did it and he always use protection. But Lianne had believed her. She was probably deeply hurt. Anger shot through him, he phased back and forth trying to calm himself. Then he stopped and stared at Madi. "Why would you tell her that?!" "Because I want her to back off and she did. It was like magic words, siya na mismo ang kusang lumayo. Think of it as a favor. Ngayon hindi na niya tayo guguluhin" Alden brushed his face in exasperation. He wished he could see Lianne and tell her that it wasn't true but it can wait. Right now, there's something more important to do. If this is how Madi want to play it, then game on. Naupo siyang muli sa tabi nito. Turning on his charm, he hold her hand. He is a good actor so it will be easy for him to put on a face that will convince her to believe him. He said in a very gentle tone, "Walang pwedeng manggugulo sa atin. I wont allow it" his hand brushed her cheek and he continued. "Madi, I'm here because I chose you. Now you have all of me and we'll be together. Hindi kita iiwan at magiging masaya na tayo. Do you believe me?" Madi stared at him, her face softened. "Of course I believe you" Alden flashed her his perfect smile. "Will you promise to stop the threats? Just leave Lianne and my family in peace" marahan niyang sabi. "I will once we've arranged our papers" "What do you mean?" naguguluhang tanong niya dito. "Babe I want to leave this place. We can migrate to Canada or any other country you want at dun na tayo titira. I know someone who can fix our papers. I can never be at ease knowing Lianne is near. Magiging panatag lang ako kung malayo tayo sa kanya. We can start our lives there" she cupped his face, "you and me.. together" she hugged him. This woman is unbelievable. Marahan siyang lumayo dito, trying to hide his irritation. He was about to disagree but he remembered what agent Robles said, agree with anything she says and keep talking to buy enough time to let him and his men take their positions. Besides, he didn't want to argue with Madi, not until he know his sister is safe. "Alright. Kung gusto mo as soon as maprocess ang papers natin aalis na tayo" "Really? You're gonna give up your career for me?" "Yes, just for you" Her eyes gleamed with excitement. Niyakap siya nito ng mahigpit but he drew away instantly. "Can you now let Raiza go? Mom and dad might be contacting her since last night. Ayokong mag-alala sila" "Oh. I'll just go upstairs and tell Marco" she gave him a smack on the lips at umakyat na ito. Alden watched her retreating back, feeling a bit relieved that he got to convince her. He spoke on the mini mic, "I'm gonna tell Raiza to leave, then get her out of here" Madi returned with Raiza after a few minutes. Mukhang maayos naman ito at hindi nasaktan. Her face lightened up as soon as she saw him at saka ito nagmamadaling tumakbo sa kanya. "Kuya" her voice broke when she hugged him. "It's okay" inalo niya ito. "You're free now. Go, lumabas ka na" "Pero pa--" "No buts, just get out of here. Now" mariin niyang utos. Nilingon muna nito si Madi who is watching them saka ito nagmamadaling lumabas sa pinto the same time a guy came running down the stairs, he must be Marco. "Madi may mga kasama siya, napapaligiran nila tayo" he said in a panicky voice. Napaatras si Alden. He couldn't run dahil may hawak na baril si Marco aiming at him. The door is probably ten to twelve feet away and he might shoot him once he move. But he was relieved that Raiza is safe now. "What?! Nasan si Joel?" "May binili siya, dala niya ang sasakyan. How are we going to get out of here? Madi ayokong makulong. I just need the money" "Shut up Marco! Think of something" she screamed angrily. "You know wala akong alam sa ganito. Joel knows what to do. Siya ang expert dito" he said nervously. He sat on the edge of the stairs. "Give me that gun" kinuha ni Madi ang baril sa lalaki at itinutok kay Alden. "You planned all of this? How can you do this to me? I believed you" "Because what you did was wrong. Lianne was almost got killed and you kidnapped my sister, what do you expect me to do?" malumanay na sagot niya dito. "Gumaganti lang ako because she stole you from me. I swear I would kill her if she didn't stay away" she took a step closer to him. He tried to stay calm. "Madi just put the gun down and surrender" "No!" she shouted hysterically. "You want me to surrender para makulong ako and then what? Babalikan mo siya? No way Alden! We will all die here!" "You're not like that. Hindi mo kayang pumatay. Sumuko ka na lang" he tried convincing her. "Madi ayokong makulong and I don't want to die either" sabat ni Marco. He was obviously nervous and close to desperation. "Will you just shut up?! And grow some balls!" Madi screamed at the guy at saka muling bumalik ang tingin sa kanya. "Alden, kung hindi ka rin lang sa akin mapupunta then I'm sure as hell na walang ibang babaeng makikinabang sayo!" He hold out his hands in front of him. If only she was within an arm's length he can be able to disarm her. But she was keeping a safe distance dahil sa tuwing hahakbang siya palapit ay umaatras ito. "Madi, we can talk--" "You're mine Alden, only mine" she spat the words angrily and desperately. Then she laughed loudly as her hands tightened on the 9mm handgun. Madi was now like a completely different person. Nakadama siya ng takot seeing her like that. Deep inside he was praying he'll survive this. He doesn't want to die yet lalo na at hindi pa siya nakakapagpaliwanag kay Lianne. Alam niyang malaki ang hinanakit nito sa kanya. "Mine. Just mine" she said repeatedly while pointing the gun at him. Alden saw determination in her eyes. He can tell that she was going to shoot him so he quickly ran and pounced on her. They both fell on the floor, pinilit niyang maagaw kay Madi ang baril. Then a gunshot echoed inside the house. Naging mabilis ang mga sumunod na pangyayari, agent Robles and his men suddenly bursted in from different directions. In just a few seconds they managed to immobilize Madi and Marco. She was screaming and struggling as they handcuff her. It took a few moments before pain registered on him, warm liquid was oozing from his left side. He looked down and saw his white shirt smeared with blood. He tried to get up but he felt a burning sensation and searing pain. Tinulungan siya ni agent Robles na tumayo at inalalayan siya nito. The man inspected his wound, he put a towel over the wound and applied pressure directly to control the bleeding. Sinabi nito na daplis lang ang naging tama niya so he's lucky that no vital organ was hit. But the bullet wound was long and deep he should be taken to the hospital to get the wound cleaned or get stitches to stop the bleeding. "I didn't.. Oh no! I didn't shoot him" bakas ang takot at pagsisisi sa mukha ni Madi nang makita siyang sugatan. "I'm sorry Alden. I'm sorry. I'm really sorry" paulit-ulit na sabi nito. The NBI men started dragging her and Marco outside. Pilit itong huminto sa harap niya and begged him na huwag siyang ipakulong. Kahit paano ay nakadama siya ng awa para dito but he took his stand. He nodded at agent Robles, instructing him to take her. She did wrong things and she has to pay for it. He pressed the doorbell for the fifth time. Alam niyang may tao sa loob and he's not going until the gate opened up. After cleaning his wound and getting stitches, the doctor adviced to confine him for a whole day because his body needs to recover from blood loss but he insisted they let him go. Halos nakipag-away pa nga siya sa ospital para lang makalabas siya. Pagkalabas niya ay dumiretso siya sa NBI. Agent Robles informed him that they have tracked the black car and caught Joel, ang isa pa sa mga kasabwat ni Madi. He also formally filed cases against the three. "Go away Alden!" finally a female voice shouted from inside. "Cheska please I just want to see Lianne" Kinalampag na rin niya ang malaking gate. Gagawin niya lahat makausap lang ito kahit sabihin pa na nanggugulo siya. He heard the sound of a door opening. Sumilip siya sa maliit na siwang ng gate and saw Cheska approaching. She opened the smaller gate and angrily faced him. "Ano ba? You're drawing attention, hindi ka ba nahihiya?!" she said in an angry tone. "I need to talk to her" "Wala si Lianne dito" "Where is she?" agad niyang tanong. "I couldn't reach her phone. Wala siya sa condo unit niya. Pinuntahan ko ang bahay ng dad niya pero wala rin siya don. I even asked her workmates but they don't know where she is either. I know if there would be someone she would run to it would be you" Nagreport din sa kanya kanina ang ini-assign ni agent Robles na bantay. Sinabi nito na umalis lang daw ito sandali para kumain, nasa condo lang naman si Lianne noon but when he returned she wasn't there, even her car was gone. "I don't know where Lianne is and even if I do, I wont tell you kaya makakaalis ka na" Cheska looked pissed. "I won't leave until you tell me kung nasaan si Lianne" matigas na sagot niya. They were earning curious stares from her neighbors kaya hinila siya nito papasok sa loob ng bakuran nito. Alden spoke in a soft, pleading voice, "Cheska, alam kong alam mo kung nasaan siya. Please.. I want to talk to her" "What for? Tigilan mo na siya Alden. She was badly hurt and I don't want her to suffer any more than she does now" "I know, kaya nga gusto kong magpaliwanag sa kanya" he shut his eyes. The wound is starting to hurt but he tried to ignore it. "Ano pa bang dapat mong ipaliwanag sa kanya? Why you broke up with her? Why you left her? Hindi na kailangan dahil alam na niya ang dahilan" "Everything that Madi told her wasn't true" he countered. "Really?" she answered sarcastically. "You couldn't even be straight honest with her. At isa pa, duwag ka. You should've man up and fought for her" "I had to do it. If I didn't leave Lianne, her life would be in danger and--" She interrupted, "Stop making up stories" "I'm not making up stories" he quickly answered. "Aminado ako sa ibang pagkakamali ko but I'm definitely not a liar" Cheska didn't answer, nakatingin lang ito sa kanya like she was trying to read him. He took that chance to tell her everything that has happened, mula sa umpisa hanggang sa mga nangyari kanina. "If you want you can go ask my sister, she'll tell you I'm not lying" he tried his best to convince her. She remained silent, he can tell she was trying to weigh everything that he said. "Cheska I swear I love your friend, all through these years. And I don't want to lose her. Now will you please tell me where she is?" When he got the reaction he need from her, he added, "And one more thing please" "What is it?" nagtatakang tanong nito. "Can I ask you for a favor?" It was cold outside but she didn't mind, she felt like her body was numb of the coldness. The starless night sky looked gloomy like the huge darkness and emptiness inside her that would never go away. A constant flash of lightning and rumble of thunder can be seen and heard which signifies that it will rain soon. Pakiramdam niya ay nakikisimpatya sa kanya ang panahon. Lianne refused to succumb to depression kaya siya lumayo but even this beautiful city doesn't seem appealing to her. She just spent her afternoon inside, reading a book. When dusk came, she checked her emails and started working on research and reports. It was almost nine in the evening ng matapos siya. She doesn't even have the appetite to eat dinner. She busied herself as a distraction to avoid thinking about him but she couldn't help it. Alden and Madi are probably back together now, both excited and happy about having a baby. Siguro ay magkasama ang mga ito ngayon, talking about their baby's future. Tears started rolling down her cheeks, hindi na niya iyon napigilan. At least she made it through her day without breaking down. Early this morning ay pinuntahan siya ni Cheska. She said Sam had called her and informed her she wasn't well. Lianne cried and poured it all out on her. It's always good to confide in a friend. She heard the soft taps of raindrops on the roof, nag-uumpisa ng umulan. It was also late, ten minutes past ten kaya tumayo na siya mula sa kinauupuan sa veranda at pumasok sa loob. She was about to close the lights and go to the guestroom when she heard the sound of a car. Huminto iyon sa tapat ng gate. Sumilip siya sa bintana ngunit madilim sa labas so she couldn't really see. Who could it be? Pamilya ni Drew? Cheska never mentioned na may darating. Someone climbed out of the car. She can tell from its figure that it was a guy pero may kadiliman sa may gate kaya hindi niya maaninag ang itsura nito. The gate and walls are high it wouldn't be easy for anyone to get in. Plus the house is equipped with a burglar alarm. Pwede rin siyang tumawag sa police post which is only two kilometers away. After the doorbell rang twice muli siyang lumabas sa veranda. "Lianne!" As soon as she heard the voice ay agad niyang nakilala ito. Her heart started to drum inside her chest. It was Alden. So what is he doing here? "Lianne!" He called out again but she didn't move. Hindi niya alam kung ano ang gagawin. Sa totoo lang ay hindi pa siya handa na harapin ito. "Lianne please let's talk" muli nitong sigaw. Paano siya nito nasundan? Did Cheska told him where to find her? Pero kanina lang ay kausap niya ito and she knows that she's not yet ready to face him. Was it Drew? Afterall, magpinsan sila ni Alden so he can easily talk his way and convince him. The rain suddenly pummeled into a heavy downpour with a loud roar of thunder in the background. Pero hindi man lang ito sumilong kahit nababasa, he remained standing beside the gate. "Lianne.. Madi.. truth.. planned.. this.. Raiza.. kidnapped.. insane.." Alden was screaming at her but the sound of the strong rain was drowning his voice. "Why.. believe her? naayos.. lahat.. 'things okay now" He was trying to explain but she couldn't understand what he was saying. All the memories from last night flooded back to her, along with the mixed emotions of anger, pain and disappointment. Lumipas pa ang ilang minuto ngunit hindi ito natinag sa pagkakatayo sa labas ng gate. He was probably now soaked from head to toe and the wind was chilly she's sure he was shivering from the cold. "Alden please, it's late and I'm tired.. Umuwi ka na lang!" Lianne shouted. She had to send him away dahil baka magkasakit pa ito. "Hindi ako aalis dito kahit abutin pa ko ng umaga.. Not until we talk, not until you listen to me" may determinasyon ang tinig nito. "Okay. Suit yourself" she answered and immediately walked back into the house. As soon as she got inside and closed the door ay napasandal siya sa pinto. She felt exhausted. Nag-aalala siya kay Alden ngunit nanaig ang sama ng loob niya para dito. Hindi naman siguro nito paninindigan ang sinabi nito na hindi siya aalis doon kahit abutin pa siya ng umaga. She knows he's not that stupid to let himself catch colds or fever or worse, pneumonia or hypothermia. Sigurado siya na pagkatapos lang ng ilang minuto, he will give up and leave. He has been standing and waiting under the heavy rain for more than an hour pero hindi pa rin lumalabas si Lianne. The door was closed and the lights were off but he's not losing hope. Alam niya na hindi siya matitiis nito. Bahagya nang tumila ang ulan. Alden sank weakly on the gutter. His body was now shaking uncontrollably from the cold. His wound also stings like hell. But all of that wouldn't keep him from staying. He was determined to wait. Yumuko siya. He shivered, clutching his arm around his body. His head throbs and his muscles ache all over, he was beginning to feel feverish and his skin feels tingly from being hot. Parang hindi na rin niya kayang muling tumayo o gumalaw pa dahil nanghihina siya. He felt a thick towel being draped around his shoulders. When he looked up, he found Lianne standing beside him. The corner of his lips formed into a weak smile. "Bakit ba ang tigas ng ulo mo?" she said in a resigned tone. "Let's go in. You need to change into dry clothes, magkakasakit ka nyan" "S-sabi ko na nga ba, h-hindi mo rin ako m-matitiis" he was able to answer kahit na nanginginig ang labi at ang buong katawan niya sa ginaw. He was also starting to feel dizzy. "Ayoko lang na magkasakit ka ng dahil sakin" "A-ayaw mong m-magkasakit ako because you c-care about me" he corrected her. He can see it in her eyes, they were filled with concern. She drew in a deep breath, "That's the point. I care about you so much, it's hurting me" "Lianne--" "I'm not mad at you" putol nito sa sasabihin niya. "I understand why you made that choice.. I'm actually blaming myself kasi dapat..." Lianne continued talking but it became muffled because of the sudden ringing in his ears. Alden felt lightheaded, the edges of his vision started to dim like there was a dark smoke circling his eyes. "Alden, are you okay?" her voice sounded far away but he felt her hands touching his face. "Ang init mo!" His chest became tight he had difficulty breathing then he lost control of his nerves at naramdaman na lang niya ang pagbagsak niya sa lupa. "Oh my god, Alden!" sinusubukan siyang iupo nito. "You're bleeding!" she exclaimed in a panicky voice. It was the last thing he heard and then everything fade into black. ----------------------------------------------------------------- Author's Note: You're all probably wondering why the update took so long. I was distracted at saka naging super busy din. My new job ate most of my time that's why writing was pushed on the bottom of my priority list. The story also had a complete turnaround, hindi ko nagustuhan yung una kong naisulat so I edited it and ended up changing almost everything. I know I owe you all an apology. Sorry po. This turned out longer than I expected so I decided to divide it into two chapters. And the last chapter is coming right up.. :)

[mystiquemadness]

Written in the Stars -- Chapter 20

She closed her laptop and moved her head in a circular motion to try to ease the tension in her neck. After unpacking her things, Lianne busied herself with a bunch of emails and reports sent to her. Sigurado siya na tambak na rin ang trabaho niya sa office. Her week-long vacation with Alden is over. Kahit ayaw pa nila ay wala silang choice dahil isang linggo lang ang paalam niya sa opisina. Alden was on leave for two weeks but he decided to also go back to work tomorrow. Early this morning, they drove back to Manila from La Union and headed straight to Cheska and Drew’s house to drop their pasalubong. The married couple invited them for lunch and they willingly obliged. After the long chitchats and endless updates, hapon na sila nakauwi sa kani-kanilang condo units. Lianne checked her phone and felt a bit disappointed not seeing a single text from Alden. Well, she couldn’t blame him. Sinabihan niya kasi ito na huwag muna siyang istorbohin because she will be preoccupied with work. Pasado alas-otso na pala ng gabi at hindi pa siya nakakapagluto. She opted for a fastfood delivery for her dinner. Just when she was about to dial the delivery service digits, her phone rang. She brightened up upon seeing his name. “Hello babe” she answered. “Hey honeybabe. Tapos ka na?” “Hindi pa nga eh, I just took a little break pero tatapusin ko rin mamaya. Di ko namalayan ang oras” “You don’t have to stress yourself babe, just take it easy” there was concern in his voice. “Can you meet me at the balcony now? She smiled, “Missed me already?” “Yes, you have no idea. Kanina pa kita gustong tawagan at puntahan but you said you’re busy” he said on the other line. “Aww” her heart swelled with joy. “Sorry, ang dami kasing trabahong naghihintay sa akin” “Come here at the balcony” “As in now?” “Yes, now” he demanded but then said in a soft, pleading tone, “Please?” She grinned, thinking how adorably cute he sounded. “Opo, papunta na” Lianne cut the call at inilagay ang cellphone sa tabi ng laptop. Tumayo na siya at lumabas ng kwarto, crossing the living room to the balcony. When she reached it, she opened the door and searched for him. His unit’s light was on, nakabukas din ang pinto sa balkonahe nito ngunit wala si Alden doon. “Honeybabe?” she called out, thinking he might have returned inside his unit. Someone grabbed and hugged her from behind which almost made her scream. If not for his sexy laugh, his tight embrace and the familiar scent of his aftershave, malamang ay nagsisigaw na siya sa pag-aakalang magnanakaw or rapist ito. “Oh God!” she breathed a sigh of relief. “Papatayin mo ba ko sa gulat at takot?” she said while turning around to face him. He stole a swift kiss on her lips, “Sorry if I frightened you, I just wanted to surprise you” his fingers brushed a few strands of her hair away from her face. “Teka, how did you get here?” she paused, her brows furrowed in disapproval. “Dito ka na naman dumaan?” she asked, pointing the railings. “Magkalapit lang naman ang balconies natin, it was easy” Alden reasoned out as he sat on a chair. “Kahit na, we’re on the eighth floor. What if.. God forbid, what if na-out of balance ka? Or nadulas yung paa mo? Accidents can happen. Hindi mo ba alam kung gano ako natakot nung nakita kitang tumawid dyan the last time?” “Come here” hinawakan siya nito sa kamay at hinila papalapit sa kanya. He let her sit on his lap. “You mean kahit hindi tayo that time, you care about me? You just don’t let it show” Lianne cupped his cheek, “I care about you, I always do because I love you. For the past years it was hidden underneath the pain, hurt, anger and hate but the love was there, kahit kailan hindi naman nawala yon” They were looking straight at each other, with pure love reflecting on the pool of their eyes. “No other woman has ever replaced you here” Alden pointed his heart. There was a soft and tender look in his eyes. “So ayaw mong may mangyaring masama sa akin because you’re afraid to lose me” She gently brushed his cheek, “Of course, I’m afraid of losing you. So please do me a favor. Use. The. Damn. Door” Alden chuckled, “Fine, no need for profanities. Hindi na ko dadaan dyan sa railings” he pulled her towards him and imprisoned her in his arms. “You will never lose me because I wont let it” She grinned, believing and trusting his words. Alden disengaged from their embrace. “Anyway, nagpadeliver ako ng food for us kasi sigurado ako na hindi ka pa rin nakakapagdinner” “Really? Wow” she was about to call for delivery but she was distracted by him, she was glad he did. Tumayo na siya mula sa kandungan nito, sumunod din itong tumayo. “I ordered your favorite food” he pointed the plastic bags of food packs on the table. “Sabay na tayong kumain” Hindi niya iyon napansin kanina. Lianne watched him as he check the food. Alden is sweet and thoughtful and she’s very lucky that he belongs to her. What more can she ask for? He is the perfect boyfriend. At sa bawat araw na dumadaan, her love for him is growing deeper and deeper. “Why are you looking at me like that?” Alden asked. She grinned, “Wala lang, sobrang naa-appreciate ko lang ang mga effort mo. I wish I can be able to return it, at least half of all those things you do for me” “You don’t have to, kasi masaya ako na napapasaya kita. Just stay with me, that’s all I’m asking” he held her hands. “I’m not going anywhere, not without you” she answered, beaming at him. Umakbay ito sa kanya, “Good. Pasok na tayo sa loob, the food is getting cold at gutom na rin ako” She just smiled to herself and walked inside with him.

They were both busy the next few days but they managed to see each other kahit sandali lang. He became too busy with taping and movie shooting. Madalas ay madaling araw na sila mapack up but some time during the day, he would drop by Lianne’s office just to see her. Or sometimes he would ask her to meet him for lunch somewhere near his location. Lianne also visited his taping once and brought food for him and the staffs. But when they were both caught up with work, they just settled for texts and phone calls. He opened the door of his car and helped her climb out of it. Lianne was wearing a sleeveless, beige blouse tucked in a black, chiffon skirt with length just over the knee which accentuates her shapely legs. It came with a matching shoes and bag. Her neck was adorned with the necklace he gave her seven years ago. Indescribable joy rose from him knowing she kept every single gift he gave her back then, the same way he kept and treasured all the gifts she gave him. She was wearing a very minimal make-up and her glossy hair falls in soft curls. Lianne epitomized classical beauty. She looked apprehensive as they stood outside his parents’ home. His father had called him earlier, inviting them for dinner. Nag-aalangan pa nga siya dahil sa naging pagtatalo nila ng kanyang ina but he couldn’t just say no to him kaya pumayag na siya. Maybe it can be a time to patch things up, or it could end up to another argument. They’ll just see what happens. “Nervous?” Alden took her hand supportively, “Don’t worry, I’m here” he assured her. Lianne laced her fingers with his, gaining courage from it. Alam niya na hindi naman siya papabayaan nito. She took a deep breath as they enter the front door. His dad and sister welcomed them. Matagal din niyang hindi nakita si Raiza, she grew up into a pretty lady. She didn’t doubt she will because her parents are both good looking, as well as her brother, it’s in their genes. Raiza is still the same, so warm, friendly and gracious. She was exuberant seeing her again and knowing she is back with her brother. After a while his mom came to greet them. She was civil and pleasant as she invited them towards the dining table. When they were all seated, Lianne felt the air of tension building. Alden broke it and commented about the food on the table. The rest of the dinner went fine. Naging maayos naman ang pakikitungo sa kanila ng mommy ni Alden. Maybe she had forgotten or set aside whatever misunderstanding she had with her son. Lianne listened as each one of the family talked about random stuffs, mostly about Alden. How he used to be when he was a kid, when he was in grade school, middle school, when he started modelling, his first acting project and so on. Every so often they would engage her into their conversation. After the dinner Alden brought her at the roof deck, on the third floor of the house. It has been years since the last time they went up there. It was one of those starless nights. The clouds stretched over the sky, giving it a hazy, ominous feel. They stood quietly there, feeling the cold breeze of the night. “Cold?” Alden locked his arms around her before she could respond. They snuggled into a warm and tight embrace, oblivious of the time and place. She didn’t know how long they have been hugging each other but she didn’t care. She just felt complete. “I love it when you hold me like you’ll never let me go” Lianne whispered on his chest. Alden loosened his arms on her, cupping her chin and willing her to look up at him. She met his smouldering gaze. “I’m not letting you go ever.. Not even if you grow sick of me” “Sick of you?” she giggled. “I don’t think that’s even possible because I love you so much” He flashed her his megawatt smile, “And I love you more” Closing the gap, she gave him a sweet peck on the lips then they hugged once again, his hands gently caressing her back. “Alden” It was his mom. They disengaged from the hug. When she looked at him there wasn’t any surprise in his expression upon seeing his mother. Siguro ay inaasahan na nito iyon. “I wanted to talk to you” Rio seemed a bit reluctant as she walk towards them. Alden looked her way first then nodded at his mother. “Sure” “Babe I’ll just go downstairs” paalam niya dito. She was on her nerves and she wanted to escape and leave them to talk. Lianne thought the two might need a little privacy. “You don’t have to leave, Lianne” his mom stopped her, “I just want to say a few things to you both” She stopped on her tracks at medyo nag-aalangan na bumalik sa tabi ng kasintahan. His mother stood beside him, studying the surroundings. She took her time while they patiently watch her. She began, “I was 18 nang mag-umpisa ako noon sa modelling, pangarap ko na yon magmula pagkabata. I was a girl who dreamed of making it big. I worked hard para makilala ako sa modelling industry. But just when my career was starting to go up, I was tied down” she paused and directed her gaze at Alden. “I was 20 when I got pregnant with you, we didn’t expect it, it was unplanned. During that time I was one of the chosen to represent for a prestigious contest for models in Singapore pero dahil sa kalagayan ko, I was disqualified. That instant, I saw my dreams crushing down” Alden was just listening quietly, he was looking unseeingly down the darkness of the street. She can tell that his mother’s words are affecting him. He was gripping the railings tightly, his knuckles are almost white from the intensity. Lianne covered his hand, trying to give him support. “I was forced to marry your dad by our parents but don’t get me wrong, I love him with all my heart. Pero pakiramdam ko noon ay masyado pa akong bata, I don’t think I’m ready to face the responsibilities of being a wife or a mother” iniwas nito ang tingin, looking up at the dark sky. “Then you came. We couldn’t explain our happiness when we saw you for the first time. You were a mini version of your dad that’s why I decided to name you after him. But that joy was replaced by regret, thinking I couldn’t go back to what I love. I have missed my chance. Nawala na ang pangarap ko” Rio sighed. Lianne could see regret and sadness in her expression. “Years passed and we watched you grow. Your dad loves you so much, he always wanted a son and you are so much like him in so many ways. But I couldn’t bring myself to love you the same way he does to you. Everyday you are a constant reminder of my lost dreams” Lianne’s heart hurt for him hearing his mother’s revelations. And she knew it was twice as painful for him. Ngayon alam na niya kung bakit naging malayo ang loob nito kay Alden. He was partly a reason why she didn’t get the chance to pursue her dreams. “Now I realized I was wrong to take it out on you. Everything was the consequences of my own action at wala kang kasalanan sa mga nangyari. At alam ko rin na hindi ko nagampanan ng maayos ang pagiging ina sa iyo. You are nothing but a good son” she faced Alden and put a hand on his shoulders, “I know I have never been vocal about it but I love you son and I am proud of what you have become. Gusto kong malaman mo na hindi na ako tumututol sa inyo” she darted a quick glance at Lianne then back to her son, “I can see that she makes you happy.. And I want you to be happy because you deserve to be. Sana mapatawad mo ko sa mga naging pagkukulang ko sayo anak” Silence reigned for a long while, tahimik lamang si Alden. They waited nervously for his response. Lianne knows he never harbored any resentment or ill will against his mother kaya sigurado siya na magkakasundo ang mga ito. “Tapos na yon kaya kalimutan na natin. And we still have all the time in the world to make up for it, right mom?” he finally answered. Rio finally breathe after holding it for so long. She smiled a genuine smile at saka mahigpit na niyakap ang anak, “Thank you. Babawi ako, I promise” He nodded continously. Bumitiw si Rio sa pagkakayakap sa anak at humarap sa kanya. “Lianne, can I ask you something?” “S-sure tita, ano po yon?” she stammered out of nervousness. “Please take care of my son, love him completely and do everything to make your relationship work” Ngumiti siya at tumango, “You didn’t have to ask. I gladly will”

"How bad is it?" Alden was checking the front tire of his car. They were on their way home ngunit huminto sila dahil flat ang gulong nito. He pulled over to the side of the road. “Not bad, kailangan lang pahanginan and don’t worry I have a manual tire pump here” “That’s good. I thought kailangan mo pa ulit magpalit ng gulong gaya noon” she leaned on his car, remembering a similar situation they had a few years back. Alden disappeared and went over to his car’s trunk then he returned with the tire pump. “You know babe, I realized it was a blessing in disguise” he said. “Huh?” He began pumping air into the tire, “Kung hindi tayo naflatan ng gulong noon I’m not sure if it would have turned out the same way between us. If anything, it started our friendship” “Yeah” she agreed. “I think you’re right there. We didn’t go along well but after that incident we became friends. We even exchanged numbers that night” “But on the contrary, you know I’m not the type na madaling sumuko. If it didn’t happen,  I’d still would have find another way for us to become friends, even if you push me away. Kahit sungit-sungitan mo pa ko” Lianne snorted, “What? Masungit ba talaga ko noon?” He paused from pumping the tire and looked at her, “Sobra” “Shut up” Lianne snapped. She folded her arms across her chest at saka inirapan ito. “Sayo lang naman ako masungit noon because you seemed so..” she searched for the appropriate word, “so obnoxious” “Whoah! I’m obnoxious?” tumigil ito sa pagbobomba at tinanggal na ang gauge sa gulong. “Well, impressions never last. You fell head over heels the moment you got to know me, right?” he winked at her. She lightly hit him on his arm, “Head over heels? Dream on” Alden laughed. Lumapit ito sa kanya at itinukod ang dalawang kamay sa kotse, imprisoning and keeping her in between. Then his head slowly moved closer to her, his eyes were glued to her lips. When his lips was just a hairs breadth away she closed her eyes. Lianne waited in anticipation for his lips. A few seconds passed and the kiss didn’t came. When she opened her eyes, she found him beaming at her in extreme amusement. Her mouth gape open in incredulity. She closed her mouth then she gave him a killer look. “Babe get in the car, ilalagay ko lang ang tire pump sa compartment” he said. “Tease!” she exclaimed. Alden broke out in laughter upon seeing her frustration and headed to his car’s trunk. Okay. She got his point. Naiiling na lang siya habang pinagmamasdan itong palayo. Lianne heard her phone ringing kaya kinuha niya iyon sa bulsa. When she looked at the screen, it was from a number she didn’t know but she took the call anyway. “Yes, hello” There was silence. “Hello?” she answered a lil louder. Still no one is speaking. “Hello? Who’s this?” She heard some weird noises on the other line and a woman laughing, she’s not too sure. The next moment she heard a loud engine revolution and then a screeching car. Everything happened so fast and the next thing she knew is that she landed roughly on the ground. “Holy shit!” Alden cursed loudly. He was quickly getting up from the ground beside her with a grim expression on his face, his eyes were following a black car on the street. Lianne sat and tried to get up but her knees were shaking. “Babe, are you hurt?” tumayo ito at saka tinulungan siya. “I’m okay, I guess..” she answered confusedly. He began inspecting her with so much concern visible in his expression. Seeing she didn’t get any major cuts or bruises maliban sa konting gasgas sa braso niya, he hugged her tightly. “Thank God” She realized what happened. Because her attention was focused on the call, she didn’t notice the black car running fast. It almost ran her over if not for Alden pushing her hard along with him on the side of the road. It was really a close call but he saved her. He was her hero. Alden was still hugging her and never letting go. She can sense his fear and deep worry for her. Siguro ay natakot ito sa posibleng nangyari sa kanya kung hindi siya nito itinulak. “Thank you for saving me” she whispered in his chest at saka lang ito bumitaw sa kanya. “I swear that driver’s gonna pay for this!” galit na galit nitong sabi. “Babe—” “That car was literally flying.. Hindi ko nakuha yung plate number. Shit” he said through gritted teeth. Strong anger was emanating from him. “Babe I think it was also my fault, hindi kasi ako nakatabi sa daan” “Kahit na, that driver should be punished for reckless driving” he said furiously. “Babe, if something bad happened to you I’m not sure of what I can do to whoever was driving that damn car” “Shhh, tama na. I’m still in one piece. Wala namang nangyari sa akin. I’ll be more cautious next time. Just let it go” she tried to calm him down. Kinuha ni Alden sa lupa ang cellphone niya na nabitawan niya kanina. She took it from him, the call has ended. Lianne was hit by a huge wave of exhaustion. She felt like she was dead beat. “Let’s just go home” she said weakly.

It has been two days mula ng mangyari ang insidenteng iyon. Dalawang araw na rin silang hindi nagkikita ni Alden. He was out of town for a movie shoot. Lianne didn’t know why he wasn’t taking her calls or answering her texts since last night. She was starting to get really worried. She can tell something was up. Outside his condo unit’s front door, she rang his doorbell and waited for him to open up, alam niya na nakabalik na ito. When she was about to press it again, Alden opened the door. He look tired. She’s guessing he hasn’t shaved for the past two days because of the growth of stubbles on his jaw and chin. There were faint shadows under his eyes. “I missed you” she reached out and hugged him tightly. Aden returned the hug and kissed her hair ngunit kaagad din itong bumitiw. “Come in” he said, closing the door behind her. She followed him to the living room, working up the questions inside her head. They really need to talk. She needed to know what the problem is. He wasn’t like that when he left. She froze. “You’re leaving again?” she asked after seeing his two big suitcases standing in the corner. He sighed and stared at his suitcases, “Umuwi lang talaga ko para ipack ang mga gamit ko. I’m gonna be really busy with shooting” If she didn’t made an effort to see him now will he knock on her door to see her? She doubt it. Hindi siya sigurado na pupuntahan siya nito para magpaalam. It was obvious that he was avoiding her. A strange feeling engulfed her, she breathed in and out, trying to calm herself. “There are reasons other than that” “Huh?” “I’m not dumb Alden. I know something is up. You’re not taking my calls at hindi ka rin nagrereply sa mga texts ko simula pa kagabi. And now, you’re so distant.. You’re colder than Baguio’s weather” Hindi ito sumagot which made her feel even more edgy. His eyes were focused on the ground. “Tell me, have I done something wrong? May nagawa o nasabi ba ko na hindi mo nagustuhan?” “Wala” there was a pained look in his expression. “Then why are you so different, what seems to be the problem!?” her voice rose a notch higher. Alden slowly sat on the sofa, as if he suddenly became so weak. His hands clasp together in front of him, his eyes looking anywhere but her. “I need space” “What?” she asked disbelievingly. They’ve only been back together for almost two weeks and now he wanted space? “I need space. I need to be away for awhile. I need to think” Lianne opened her mouth to say something but words fail her so she shut it again. Her mind is replaying his every word over and over again slowly grasping its meaning. She sank on the sofa next to him, feeling like all her energy went down the drainage. “You want space” her voice barely audible. “You want a break up? Nasasakal na ba kita? Am I suffocating you?” Hindi pa rin ito tumitingin sa kanya. “Oh God, this is harder than I thought” Alden murmured to himself but the room is eeriely quiet kaya narinig niya ito. He rested his head on his hands, looking at the ground, he seemed twisted and tormented. Nagtataka siya sa ikinikilos nito. He was sweet, charming, caring and loving, he was all sense a perfect boyfriend before he left, and surely it couldn’t just change overnight. What happened to him? What’s the reason why their relationship made a hundred eighty degrees turn? Dread rose from deep inside her. Hindi na ba siya nito mahal? Her heart twisted at the thought. Ngunit sa loob ng halos dalawang linggo nilang pagsasama, he showed it and she felt it too. He made her feel loved and adored. “You said you love me.. Or you’re not really sure you do now?” her voice broke at the end as drops of salty liquid wet her cheeks. Alden quickly looked at her and his face was a picture of agony, “You know I do. I love you—” “Then why are you doing this..?” she felt instant relief after hearing he loves her but she couldn’t stop the sob from escaping. She can tell that he wanted to soothe and comfort her but his hands were fisted on his sides, he didn’t dare touch her. She had no idea what was stopping him. “I need a break. I need to be away to straighten these things out” his tone was a plea, filled with urgency. “Alden, we had a promise that we will work on each problem together. What happened to that?” His face was filled with a palpable desolation. He shut his eyes in anguish. “I know.. But I want to protect you and I have to deal with this myself” “What? I don’t get it. I don’t understand?” she asked, puzzled. “Listen to me, this is what’s best for everyone else” grave resolution and finality can be discern from his tone. “Just trust me”

Lianne didn’t know how she allowed him to talk his way into it. She still had no clue to what was really going on. Alam niya na maraming inililihim sa kanya si Alden and even if she beg him he wouldn’t tell her anything. He just asked her to trust him and she trust him well enough para pagbigyan na lang ang hinihingi nito. She tried to analyze their conversation this morning. His career came to her mind. Maybe it was about it. Nalaman na ng handler nito ang relasyon nila at maaaring naisip nito na mas makabubuti na maghiwalay muna sila. But why wont he tell her about it? Maiintindihan naman niya na pinapangalagaan lang nito ang trabaho nito. She’s sure that there is a bigger reason but whatever that is, she trust him and the power of their love. After everything they went through, ngayon pa ba siya matatakot? She has a strong faith na kahit anong problema pa ang dumating sa kanila ay malalagpasan nila iyon. She promised herself na hinding hindi na niya ito pakakawalan pa so she will do everything to make their relationship work. Her eyes darted to the clock on her desktop. It was almost eight pm and she had finished all her task for the day. She got up and readied herself to leave her office. Lianne went straight to the basement parking area where her car was parked. Cherry and Arnie were convincing her to go out. It is a Friday night afterall, but she declined. She’s not in the mood and she want nothing more than to go home and rest. Just when she was about to open her car, a figure too familiar caught her eye, kahit malayo at nakatalikod ito ay agad niyang nakilala. Alden was on the far side of the parking area. But what is he doing here? He said he would be leaving this afternoon kaya dapat ay nasa Bacolod na ito ngayon. She contemplated that maybe his flight was rescheduled. Pupuntahan niya sana ito ngunit napansin niya na hindi ito nag-iisa. He was with Madi. What on earth are they doing or talking about? She immediately hide on a wall so she could watch them from a distance. She wonder how long they have been talking there, it seemed like they are deep in conversation. Lianne’s heart tightened against her chest. Ngunit hindi siya mag-iisip ng masama, she trusts him. They probably just bumped into each other and played catch ups. Madi moved closer to him to touch his face. She couldn’t see his reaction because his back was on hers. Then the girl tiptoed and gave him a kiss, probably on the lips. Hindi umiwas si Alden and he didn’t even push her so it lasted for a few seconds. Lianne leaned against the wall, unable to stand the sight. She felt like her heart was being stabbed by a dozen of knives. Her vision blurred with uncontrollable tears. Anong ibig sabihin ng nakita niya? Is she trying to win him back? Could it be that she’s the reason why he asked for a cool-off? Tiningnan niyang muli ang dalawa. They were now enveloped in a hug, Alden was the one who pulled away first. Sumakay na ito sa kotse nito, leaving Madi standing there. Then he started driving away as Madi waved at him smilingly. When his car passed by, she ducked on her hiding place dahil ayaw niyang makita siya nito. Tumayo siya nang makaalis na ito. She wiped her tears, hindi siya sigurado sa kung ano ang nangyayari but she’s determined to find out. She’s holding on to his words earlier. He loves her and she believes him that’s why she will fight for him. She also promised herself that she will never give him up, not now and not ever. Lianne decided to face that girl. With hurried steps, she walked towards her direction. Madi paused from starting the car upon seeing her. A complacent smile formed on her lips as she climbed out of the car. “Lianne. What a surprise” she greeted amusedly as she closed the door. Madi didn’t look surprised at all and a mischievious grin added with a glint of anger was noticeable in her expression. Lianne noted that she had lost a lot of weight and there was something different about her. Sa tingin niya ay alam na nito ang tungkol sa relasyon nila ni Alden. Maybe that was why she was flirting with him to get him back. “Madi” she started. “Can we talk?” “I think I know exactly what you want to talk about” she mocked. “What you did awhile ago—” “Actually, sinadya ko talaga yon. Did you like what you see?” This girl is obviously taunting her pero hindi siya magpapaapekto. Ayaw niyang makipagtalo dito dahil nirerespeto niya ang pagiging magkinakapatid nila. She tried to suppress her annoyance. “Okay, I’m gonna be straight up with you now. What you and Alden had, it was over. Maayos naman siyang nakipaghiwalay sayo so sana huwag mo na siyang guluhin pa. Can you please stay away from him and move on?” Madi’s laughter filled the air. “Eh kung ayoko. Are you gonna beg me to leave him alone?” “I wont, and if you’re sane enough, you would do the right thing” malumamay pa rin niyang sagot. “Right thing?” Madi continued in a disgusted tone, “Alden and I were okay and then you came and barged in. Dahil sayo kaya kami naghiwalay. You’re talking about the right thing when you’ve stolen him from me?!” Madi’s beautiful face was distorted with rage. Medyo natakot siya sa reaksyon nito. She look like she’s ready to pounce on her and strangle her neck. But Lianne defended herself. “No, I didn’t. Hindi ko siya inagaw sayo, your relationship has always been rocky. And I have his heart right from the start, alam mo yan. He never learned to love you” “Love is bullshit! Well, I really had no idea na may nakaraan kayo. Who would have thought na papatol si Alden sayo noon, you look hideous back then. Though you look a little better now but between us..” she looked at her from head to toe, sizing her up. “It’s quite obvious” Madi made a self-satisfied smirk. “I really don’t know what hold you have on him that you got him bewitched all these years but I’m glad he’s leaving you now” Her brows furrowed. “What are you talking about?” “Sinabi ko na diretsahin ka na niya” she rolled her eyes. “But knowing him, he couldn’t be so harsh. He’s too nice” “What do you mean?” she nervously asked. Nahuhulaan na niya ang ibig nitong sabihin but her mind is denying it. “Alden told me he already broke up with you this morning.. But it turned out he wasn’t brave enough to tell you the reason” That was what they were talking about awhile ago? Pero bakit? Lumakas ang kabog ng dibdib niya. She dreaded to hear what she has to say. “Siguro ayaw niyang masaktan ka kaya hindi niya sinabi sayo ang totoo but Alden didn’t know that it hurts more to be the last to know. Poor you” a mixture of pity and more of amusement lit Madi’s face. “But I’m gonna tell you the truth and this is to save you from further confusion and agony” “Just cut to the chase Madi” The girl burst out laughing. “So impatient, are we?” then as if on cue, she became disturbingly serious. Lumapit ito sa kanya at tiningnan siya ng diretso sa mga mata. “Alden is leaving you.. Why? He’s leaving you because of me. He’s coming back to me” “I don’t believe you” may diin na sabi niya. Lumaban siya ng titigan dito. Madi folded her arms across her chest and confidently said, “I don’t care if you wont believe me, pero nagsasabi ako ng totoo. Remember your last conversation with him? Why else do you think he wanted to get away?” He didn’t tell her why pero hindi niya makita ang rason para mas piliin ni Alden ito kaysa sa kanya. At isa pa, hiniling nito na pagkatiwalaan niya ito kaya iyon ang gagawin niya. Lianne retaliated. “Alden loves me Madi, nagmamahalan kami kaya hindi ko hahayaan na makuha mo siya. I’m gonna fight for him. I wont give him up” “Fight for him? Just so you know Lianne, you’ve already lost the battle.. And I won” she grinned, eyes gleaming with victory. “No. I need to talk to him. I need to hear it from him” she wouldn’t back down. Her mind is still hanging into the last fiber of faith for their relationship, she tried to find hope somewhere deep inside her. Madi stared at her with unconcealed delight. “I’m telling you, Alden has decided.. And he chose me.. No, he chose us rather” she touched her stomach when she said the word us. Us? She stared at her belly. Lianne gasp as understanding dawned on her. “Yes. I’m pregnant” she confirmed. Those two words pulsated and echoed in her ears. Napakapit siya sa katabing kotse dahil bigla siyang nanghina. Lianne shut her eyes. She was prepared to fight for the man she loves but she already lost it. Madi is carrying Alden’s child, an innocent, harmless one. She can never compete with that. She swallowed painfully and gazed at Madi. She looked as though she had won the Ms. Universe crown. Clearly he had chosen his child over her and Madi has enough reason to be with him than her. “I guess now you know your place. Stay away from the father of my child” it was a threat more than a plea. With that Madi climbed inside her car and drove away leaving her panting in grief and despair.

She lay wide awake on her bed. Hindi niya alam kung paano siya nakauwi ng maayos pagkatapos ng komprontasyon nila ni Madi. Her eyes are now dried with tears, tatlong oras na rin siyang umiiyak and now she just felt — numb. She heard her phone ringing on her bedside table but she couldn’t will her body to move. What if it’s an important call from work? But it’s already quarter before midnight, surely anyone would consider that it was past bedtime. What if it’s Alden? What else would he say to her? Ask her to trust him? Say sorry? She already know the truth at nasaktan na siya and she’s not even sure she can bare talking to him now. The phone continuously rang. But what if it’s her mom? She will be coming back in a week’s time at baka may kailangan ito. Or maybe it’s Cheska. Her bestfriend. She so badly need her right now, she needed a friend to talk to. Lianne sat on her bed and reached for her cellphone. Sam’s name registered on the screen. Sam! It has been two weeks mula ng umalis ito pabalik ng California. She promised to call him but she never got the chance to, all because she was preoccupied with Alden. She realized she miss him. “Hello Sammy” she answered. “Hey stranger” She winced and closed her eyes, may tampo ito sa kanya. “I know I promised to call you but I was too caught up with things” “Bakit ganyan ang boses mo? Did I wake you up?” She cleared her throat. “No, I have a sore throat” she lied, “and I was about to sleep pa lang” though she’s not sure if she’ll be able to sleep tonight when she’s all feeling weary and restless. “Drink tea, it will give a soothing feeling” his voice was laced with concern. “I will” “Anyway Lianne, I know it’s almost midnight there but I have received a good news and I thought I’d share it with you” he sounded happy and excited. His voice was like a ray of sunshine that gives her comfort. She can almost imagine him with his dazzling smile and sparkling eyes. “Really? What is it?” she tried to sound excited too. “I just got promoted so I am now the new production head” he said proudly. “Well it’s about time. Wow. You deserve it Sammy, congrats!” she felt happy for him. “Thank you. I wish you were here though so we can celebrate” “Yeah” she said weakly. Naisip niya na kung hindi siya bumalik ng Pilipinas hindi sana siya nasasaktan katulad ngayon. Kasama niya siguro si Sam na nagsasaya para sa promotion nito. She probably would still be working happily and worry-free with her workmates whom she also consider as friends. “So how have you been doing?” Sam’s serious tone broke her away from her thoughts. “I’m good” “Good?” she sensed his doubt on the other line. “Come on Lianne, I know you.. Just spill the beans” Everything that happened today rushed back into her mind. Alden not taking her calls, their conversation, his pained look, him breaking up with her, seeing him with Madi, seeing them kiss and hug, Madi telling her she’s pregnant, everything. At bumalik din lahat ng sakit na naramdaman niya. “Sam, I should’ve..” her voice broke before she even finished her sentence because of uncontrollable tears and sob that escaped from her. “Hey.. Why are you crying? Lianne tell me what happened” Deep worry can be sensed in Sam’s voice. He really does care about her. A lump formed in her throat, she couldn’t speak. Tears streamed down her cheeks like fountains. “Is it because of him?” She can tell that he was suppressing his anger. Naalala niya ang mga sinabi nito sa kanya noon. Is he gonna point out how stupid she was for following her heart? Lianne heard him curse on the other line and he muttered something under his breath. “I don’t have an idea of what’s really going on but I know Alden is involved here” he paused to heave a deep sigh and then continued, “It isn’t easy, you both have your ups and downs but you and him need to face what went wrong if you’re going to move forward” Anong sinasabi nito? Surely he doesn’t have a clue to what was really going on between them. She found her voice, “Sam it’s not like that—” “Lianne nung nagpaubaya ako I knew you felt relieved, you felt free. That’s when I wished.. no, I prayed for you to find your happiness. And I know where your happiness is.. It is with Alden and I’m sure he feels the same way about you. So you have to be open with how you feel, don’t shut each other out, and talk about your issues in a compromising way. And most importantly, never let anything stand in the way with your happiness” ‘Oh Sam! Someone had already stand in the way with our happiness and the only thing that was left for me to do is to walk away’ she didn’t voice it out. Right now, she wasn’t ready to tell him everything but one day she will be. She was also dumbstricken. Inaasahan na niya na ipagdidiinan nito sa kanya ang pagkakamali niya, but instead here he was, advicing her on how to get back with Alden. She also thought she had pushed him away the last time but he is still the same caring Sam she knew. With the way he feels about her, alam niya na mahirap din ito para dito. But he is so selfless and he want her to be happy. “Thank you Sammy.. For everything.. For not letting us get split up by distance or time. Hindi ko talaga alam kung anong mabuting nagawa ko to deserve such a great friend like you but I thank God for that.. and I’ve missed you so much” Sam never got mad when she didn’t call him for weeks because she was too busy being someone’s girlfriend, but he was right there to pick her up when things predictably shattered, no bargaining or no explanations needed. Sam was grinning on the other line, she can tell. “You have no idea how much I am missing you too.. I’ll always be here for you Lianne, you can count on that”

Ngayon lang napack-up ang shooting nila at wala pa siyang tulog. But he contemplated he wouldn’t be able to sleep at all with the kind of predicament or dilemma he is facing now. He scrolled through the contacts in his phone and stopped when he saw Lianne’s number. He’s been itching to call or text her but he just can’t. Madi is probably tracking his outgoing and ingoing calls and text. She has the connection and the money to do so. She’s also been following him around. Nagulat pa nga siya na naghihintay ito sa kanya sa parking area kagabi. They talked and he told her what she wanted to hear. Sumandal siya sa headrest ng kotse niya at ipinikit ang mga mata. He knew better than to cross Madi. Natatakot siya sa kung anong kaya nitong gawin. That’s why he decided to just follow the script that she wanted to play. He scrolled through her number and pressed the call button. She answered on the second ring. “Alden babe” her voice was cheerful. “I’ve been waiting for your call since last night. I missed you.. Nagpack-up na kayo?” “Yeah, ngayon ngayon lang” he tried hard not to sound flat. “Where are you staying?” She instantly replied in a sing-song voice. “So you’ve finally decided now? Are you sure?” “Yes. Never been sure” “Great! I’ll text you the address” she squealed with delight. “I’ll be waiting for you baby” “Okay, I’m coming.. Bye” Alden cut the call. This probably wont end well but he’s taking his chances. He dialled another number and pressed the call button. “Hello” a deep, baritone voice answered. Taking a deep breath, he put his game face on. Well, he’s gotta do what he’s gotta do.

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Author’s Note:

Someone’s probably sooo mad at me right now. Pero di nman ako nagpromise diba? I said I’ll try. But then I’m really sorry for keeping you all waiting. (I’ll try harder next time) Peace. :) I know this chapter will earn violent reactions but have a little faith in me please.. and a little more patience too.. :) Next up is the finale. Thank you for reading ♥

[mystiquemadness]

Written in the Stars -- Chapter 19

"Are you even thinking, Alden? You dumped Madi over a woman who dumped you seven years ago!?" Alden answered in a hush tone, “Mom please keep it low. She’s just upstairs, anytime ay magigising na siya” He missed his flight to Europe yesterday because his alarm went off and there was a traffic jam due to an accident on his way to the airport. He was advised to call his travel agent so he can get on to the next available flight but he changed his mind. He felt like something was pulling him back so he decided to go home. And he was thankful na hindi natuloy iyon. It was like fate find a way to bring him and Lianne back together. When he saw her running to him and when her soft body crushed into his, in that instant he saw their future, he saw a wonderful life together. And right in that moment, he swore nothing and no one will keep them apart. Dahil masyado ng gabi para umuwi pa ito, he asked her to stay. The guest room was set for her to sleep in but she insisted they stay together. He agreed because he wanted to spend every second with her at sulitin ang mahabang panahon na hindi sila nagkasama. Lianne joined him in his old room and shared the same bed. They stayed up late just talking, kissing, cuddling and nothing more. They spent their night catching up with the lost times. “Okay” Rio lowered her voice, sitting down on the chair next to him. “Think about this.. Sino ang tumulong sa’yo nung mga panahong naghihirap ka? Si Madi hindi ba? She gave you the right connections to make you one of the top models here. She asked her dad para kuhanin ka ng talent management ng network nila. She also convinced you to act and look at you, isa ka nang recognized at award-winning actor. You are a star” “Mom—” She interrupted. “Alden you are indebted to her, hindi mo ba naiisip yon?” He paused from sipping his coffee, “My determination and talent took me to where I am right now” “Oo tama ka but you must not forget that she helped you reach that position” He put down his cup of coffee and stared at the warm liquid. “Hindi ko ho nakakalimutan yon and I am grateful for everything she has done for me” “And that’s how you show your gratitude? Sa kabila ng mga nagawa niya para sa’yo iniwanan mo siya at ipinagpalit sa ibang babae” He closed his eyes as he put his thumb and index finger on the bridge of his nose, he felt a steady throbbing in his head. He already expected his mom would react sa paghihiwalay nila ni Madi at sa pagbabalikan nila ni Lianne. “Mom you knew from the start that she doesn’t have my heart” he said the words gently so as not to sound argumentative. “Natutunan mo sana siyang mahalin if only you had set your heart and mind to it. She’s beautiful, nice, sweet, generous, educated and she came from a good family. Siya ang babaeng para sa’yo” may diin na sabi nito. “I tried to.. I really did” Alden shook his head. “Pero sa umpisa pa lang ng relasyon namin, I’ve come to realized she’s not the kind of woman I need in my life” “Bakit?” direktang tanong ng kanyang ina. “Because she’s immatured and stubborn. She never think about the future, she just wanted to have fun. Madi is not even thinking of getting a career or a job kaya hanggang ngayon umaasa lang siya sa magulang niya. There are times she’ll lie to me if she wanted to just to go to parties and be with her wicked friends. She gets jealous with no apparent reason. Halos lahat ng mga nakaka-loveteam o nakaka-eksena ko pinagseselosan niya. We’re not new in this industry kaya dapat naiintindihan na niya ang nature ng trabaho ko. Sometimes she’s too controlling and possessive that I feel like suffocating. And no matter how many times I pointed out those things to her, hindi pa rin siya nagbabago” mahabang paliwanag niya. “Inintindi mo na lang sana siya. Normal lang sa mga babae ang maging selosa at possessive lalo na at artista ka and you get all the attention from the girls” “The main reason why I put up with her for one and a half year is because of you, dahil gusto mo siya” “I like Madi because she’s the perfect girl for you” He shook his head disbelievingly, “Perfect? For you she’s perfect because she came from a rich and well-known family” “I don’t like what you are implying Richard” there was a grave expression in his mother’s face. “The glitterati, the socializing, the spotlight,you like all of them kaya nagkakasundo kayo ni Madi. And you approve of her because rank and status matters to you” he couldn’t stop himself from voicing his thoughts and sentiments. “How dare you accuse me of that!” Rio’s voice went two octaves higher. Realizing he might have gotten far, he exhaled a deep breath and restrained himself. The last thing he wanted is a discord within their family. “Rio tama na” Sabay pa silang napalingon sa nagsalita. Ricky, his dad was there and watching them. Hindi niya alam kung kailan pa ito nakikinig sa kanila. He maneouvered his wheelchair closer to them. “Give your son a break” Rio turned to face her husband, “I only want what’s best for him. I want him to have a secured future” “Pero hindi mo na inisip kung ano ang makapagpapasaya sa kanya. For seven years we have already robbed him of his chance of happiness” he spoke in a mild voice but there was emphasis in every word. “She dumped and left him, hindi natin kasalanan-“ “Listen” Ricky cut her off. “Kung hindi nangyari ang mga ito sa akin, everything would probably be different. It all comes down to me and I really feel guilty. But no matter how many times I blame myself hindi na maibabalik pa ang mga nangyari” He paused for a few seconds then seeing his wife was listening, he continued. “You know that Alden chose us over the girl he loves. He dedicated his life to us, madami siyang isinakripisyo para sa pamilyang ito. Kahit minsan ba narinig mo siyang nagreklamo o nanumbat? Never. He never did that to us. Alden was nothing but a responsible son and brother. And I think we owe it to him to let him find the happiness he deserves” Rio became silent. She was left utterly speechless by her husband’s long statement. Alden was just listening quietly. A big weight was lifted off his chest when he heard how his father defended him. Ricky maneouvered his wheelchair closer to him and placed one hand on his shoulder. “Son, it’s time you do what’s best for you and your life, not what’s best for everyone else. Now go and allow yourself to be happy”

Because they were both on a vacation they decided to make the most out of it. Umakyat sila ng Baguio kanina at tumuloy sa resthouse ng pamilya ni Lianne. Hapon na sila nakarating kaya nagstay na lang sila sa bahay para bukas na lang mamasyal. Lianne cooked spicy chicken wings and buttered vegetables for their dinner. Alam niya na hindi iyon masarap but Alden complimented it at madami itong kinain just to make her feel good. She promised herself she will do her best to improve her cooking. After the dinner, they cuddled at the living room to watch a movie. She picked The Notebook and he just let her, hindi ito nagreklamo. They were on the sofa, lying on their sides with her back on his chest, kakatapos lang ng pinanood nila. Lianne sniffed and wiped the tears that flow on her cheeks. “This gets me everytime” He snickered. “What’s funny?” she drew away from Alden’s arms, naupo siya at inirapan niya ito. “Hmmm, it amuses me how you get too sentimental over a movie” “Well women aren’t insensitive like men are” she defended passively. “Hindi naman kami insensitive, di lang kami overly emotional kagaya ninyo” he teased. “Whatever” she heard him laugh. “I’m cold, halika nga dito” he pulled her back into his arms, this time they were facing each other. Alden started tracing lines on her face with his finger. “I just fell in love with how he loves Allie and how he hold on to their vows of “til death do us part” Men should learn from Noah, you know” He nodded and answered in a serious tone, “I realized we are similar in some ways” “Really? How?” “Like him, I was not afraid to make a fool of myself just to show you how much I wanted to be with you. Noah and I are both very persistent. We only have eyes for one woman. We keep our promises regardless of the circumstances. We continued loving even when it’s hurting us” Lianne was surprised to know he really paid attention. He was right, iyon ang mga pagkakatulad nila ni Noah. She looked at him straight in the eyes, “Noah and Allie’s love passed the test of endurance, will we?” He pulled her closer to him, “It wont be easy. It’s going to be really hard but let’s promise ourselves that we will work on it everyday and will never give up on each other okay?” “Okay, promise” she uttered while gazing into his tender eyes. Alden closed the distance and kissed her lightly. She did not need further invitation as she responded to his kiss. Her hand went up to his head, her fingers gently brushing through his hair and down to his nape. She inclined her head to better enjoy and deepen the kiss. Alden shifted their position, letting her lay on her back on the couch then he moved on top of her. He started trailing down kisses on her jawline down to her neck then back up to her mouth. He bit her lower lip teasingly, stealing a soft sigh from her. Their breaths become heavy as the kiss become more urgent. His hands began to wander all the way up her arms down to her body and thighs then back up to her stomach and breast, gently caressing them. She gasped, feeling lightheaded. Then she felt something hard pressed against her hips. “Babe, we can’t” she pulled away from him. Sabay silang bumangon at naupo. Alden brushed his hand on his face, “Sorry babe.. My libido got the best of me.. I know I should at least have the decency to take you to bed and not just here in this couch. I understand you’re not comfortable—” “No, it’s not that” she bit her lower lip and continued, “Meron ako” “Merong ano?” “Uhm, red days” “Huh?” “I have my period” she said sheepishly. It took a few seconds before he understood and reacted, “Oh” “Sorry” Lianne’s cheeks warmed up in embarassment. Napakamot na lang siya ng ulo, “It’s okay” It was an awkward situation, hindi makatingin ng diretso sa kanya si Lianne. She must have felt guilty seeing the frustration in his face. Just when he was starting to get turned on, she let her down. But he wasn’t mad or even upset at her. “I can wait” he assured her. It was hard for him but what are days compared to seven years? Kaya niyang maghintay kahit matagal. They shared the same room again and he was left with no choice but to behave and be good. That night, he barely had sleep because the set-up was driving him crazy. Her soft body tangled with his and her sweet scent filling his lungs was pure torture on his part. Wide awake, he watched Lianne sleep, memorizing her face and reminding himself every few seconds to hold on to his remaining self-control.

"Babe?" she called out habang pababa ng hagdan ngunit hindi ito sumasagot. Did he go out? Hindi naman ito nagpaalam sa kanya. He only left a note on the side table of their room telling her to eat the breakfast he prepared, take a shower then meet him downstairs after. “Alden?!” Dumiretso siya sa kusina but she saw no sign of him. Wala rin ito sa living room at sa terrace. Saka niya napansin ang isang regalo sa ibabaw ng center table sa may sala. It was for her and there was a note instructing her to open it. Pinunit niya ang balot nito but the gift was still wrapped up. She tore the second wrapper and found out na nakabalot pa rin iyon. Is he tripping on her? After toring what seemed like twelve wrappers or so, it revealed a small envelope. She quickly pulled the card inside it and read the scribbled words. Turn around. Lianne did as instructed, she turned around and found him standing there. She was about to say something but Alden suddenly swoop her in his arms and claimed her lips. Her head lifted towards his and her eyes automatically shut to feel the good sensation his mouth was making.His soft, warm lips tasted like mint. She could feel him smiling which made her smile too. Reluctantly, Alden put the breaks on and drew away. “You liked my gift?” “Nasan?” she fumbled through the pile of wrappers thinking she might have missed it. He chuckled, “The kiss” “Ah, yung kiss” she grinned. Her boyfriend is always full of surprises. Definitely one of the things she missed about him. “I loved it” “Good” he beamed at her, “Wait, I have something for you” May kinuha si Alden sa likuran nito, it was a single peach colored flower. Ibinigay nito iyon sa kanya. “You’re so sweet, thank you babe” “I’ve no idea what kind of flower is that. Nakita ko lang yan na nakatanim sa kapitbahay, naisip kita kaya I sneaked and picked one” “What? Kila Ms. Quizon? Buti hindi ka nahuli?” she was referring to their neighbor. Kilala ito sa pagiging masungit, matandang dalaga kasi ito. “I did some ninja moves” tumawa ito, “Madami silang tanim so I doubt they’ll notice a single flower missing” She just shook her head in disapproval. Alden held her hand, “Let’s go?” “Saan?” “Mamamasyal tayo” “Are you sure about that? Pagkakaguluhan ka lang ng mga tao” He beamed, “Akong bahala”

They spent the next two days roaming around the city of pines. The last time she visited was over eight years ago and she was surprised to see a lot of changes. Alden was wearing a wig. Medium-length, straight, kinda wavy hair swept back for a cool and dandy look that accentuates his facial features. He paired it with a fitted cap. It’s surprising how he can pull off  a long hairstyle. With his looks, he reminded her of Tyler Blackburn of Pretty Little Liars except that he was wearing a fake moustache that looks ridiculously funny. Hindi niya mapigilang mapatawa kapag tinitingnan iyon. It was his idea of a disguise. He decided to wear those para hindi ito makilala ng mga tao at malaya silang makapamasyal. Their first stop was Camp John Hay, Butterfly Sanctuary and Igorot Garden. They took photos of them together, the scenic view and the people. Sinubukan nilang mag-horseback riding sa Wright Park. She ride around the bridle path where she was taught by a guide on how to maneouver a horse. Alden is a better rider and like a chivalrous knight he let her ride with him. Nag-enjoy sila sa pangangabayo. After that they went to the Mines View Park. Aside from enjoying the panoramic view of the Benguet Mines, they took a picture with an enormous St. Bernard dog, rented a costume and played dress up as native Igorots. And then the Botanical Garden, which she liked so much because it was cleaner than the other parks. Some of the places they visited were not well-maintained which saddens them. They also had their picture taken with some locals wearing traditional Igorot clothes there. Their Baguio trip wouldn’t be complete if they miss the chance to visit Burnham Park. They enjoyed renting a boat and going around the Burnham lake. The ride was nice and after the guide took them around one time, bumaba na ito at hinayaan si Alden na magsagwan, it was a great experience. The Tam-awan Village has got to be one of her favorites, seeing their rich culture. A Tam-awan artist did their portrait sketch in just 15-20 minutes for a few bucks. They checked out the different Ifugao houses and the art gallery. Another stop is the Lourdes Grotto. They climbed 252 steps stairs to get to the top. Halfway through it, tinanong siya ni Alden kung napapagod na siya at gusto niyang magpapasan. She declined dahil nakakahiya naman sa ibang tao na nakayanang umakyat doon. It was really solemn at the grotto, together they whispered a prayer and lit a candle at the altar. The wind was a bit chilly even with the sun on top of their heads that’s why they didn’t mind walking around and picking strawberries from the vast farm. It was located in La trinidad Benguet, about thirty minutes from Baguio City. The other places they went to are The Mansion, Bencab museum, Baguio Cathedral and a lot more. They also didn’t miss to try the food as well as the famous restaurants there. They realized that two days was not enough to visit the must-see places in Baguio. It was their first trip together as a couple kaya hinding-hindi niya makakalimutan iyon.

"Bro, I was invited to a big party sa katabing resort, you wanna come with me tonight?" pabulong na sabi ni Alex. Alex’ family owns a beach property in La Union. The place is very private and serene. There was a villa, air-conditioned rooms, cottages and complete facility kaya pagkagaling nila ng Baguio ay doon sila dumiretso. He was also there for the weekend. “Nag-away na naman siguro kayo ni Cathy?” He was referring to Alex’s special friend, wala kasing label ang relationship ng dalawa at wala ring commitment. “Umalis na siya. She caught me flirting with another girl kanina. Galit na galit siya sa akin” “So hinayaan mo na lang umalis mag-isa, di mo man lang sinundan?” he sat on one of the wooden chairs in the front porch of the big villa. “It’s all good bro, papalamigin ko lang ang ulo niya then after that we’ll be okay” “You can only push someone so far before they break. And a piece of advice lang bro, magseryoso ka na” he gave his friend a tap on the back. “Magseryoso? I still want to be able to do what I want. So ano, sama ka na?” He instantly declined, “No, I’ll pass” “We’re gonna party hard. Fun and wild girls doesn’t sound appealing to you?” Alex continued goading him. “Bro, I’m a changed man” “Shut up!” Alex playfully punched him on his arm. “When you were with Madi sumasama ka naman sa mga good times ng barkada ah” He chuckled, “Noon yon. With Lianne, it’s different” “Fine, fine” umakbay ito sa kanya. “Pero ang tagal na nating di gumigimik. You can just feast with your eyes, ako na lang ang didiskarte sa mga girls and do my thing” “What if my girlfriend finds out about it? I wont even attempt to look at other girls” napangiti siya. Just the thought of Lianne being his girlfriend makes his heart swell with joy. Naupo si Alex sa katabing upuan, “Wow! Ganyan talaga kalaki ang takot mo kay Lianne? Come on bro, what’s the worst thing she can do?” “I don’t want to find out” “Weak” He just smiled and didn’t respond. He promised himself that he will never do anything that might cause even a small rift between them. In the fear of losing her again, this time he will make sure to do everything right. He saw Lianne coming out of the kitchen door and walking towards them. She stopped beside him at inakbayan siya. “What are you guys up to?” “Nothing. We’re just fooling around” Alden looked up at her, circling his arm on her waist and suddenly pulling her onto him, napaupo ito sa kandungan niya. She screamed out of surprise and playfully hit him on his chest while giggling. “Ang kulit mo” Lianne pinched him on his cheek. Ngunit hindi naman ito umalis sa kandungan niya. He crushed her in his arms fiercely. “Masama bang maglambing sa honeybabe ko?” he planted a kiss on her nose. Alex intentionally cleared his throat, getting their attrntion. They almost forgot he was still there. “Guys, get a room!” Alden chuckled, “Inggit ka lang bro” “Okay, obviously I’m the odd one out so I think I’m gonna go get my ass out of here” “Wait Alex dito ka na magdinner” Lianne invited him. “Thanks but I really need to go. I wont say no next time. See you” he started walking away and headed towards his car. Lianne looked at him questionningly, “What was that about? Bakit siya umalis agad?” He brushed some strands of her hair out of her face, “Don’t worry about him. He’s just gonna follow a furious lioness”

"Oh god look at him. He’s really gorgeous. And hot.. And so charming pa. He’s perfect" the girl beside her gaze at him admiringly. Lianne looked at Alden who is busily accomodating three teen girls. They were at the beach having a little picnic beside a bonfire nang lumapit ang mga ito to ask for a pic with him. Galing ang mga ito sa katabing beach resort. Pinaunlakan naman iyon ni Alden. “Yes” she agreed. “He’s perfect” and all mine.. But she didn’t voice it out. “Ate, you are friends with him diba? Can I get his number, please?” She opened her mouth but closed it again, unsure of what to say. “I’m sorry but my girlfriend might not like that” Alden butted in their conversation. “Alden” the girl said breathlessly nang makalapit ito sa kanila. “May girlfiend ka na pala” “Yes, I’m already taken by her” he took Lianne’s hand and held it tightly. “Really?” the girl said, directing an envious gaze at her. “Pano si Liz?” “No, no nagbibiro lang siya. We’re just bestfriends” tanggi niya. She looked at him meaningfully, “Di ba?” He didn’t answer, ngunit nakakunot ang noo nito sa kanya. “I see” the girl grinned widely with renewed hope, “Palabiro ka pala Alden”

"Why do you have to say that?" he asked her nang makaalis ang mga ito. Bumalik siya sa inuupan kanina sa harap ng bonfire, sumunod naman si Alden he sat down on the other camping chair. “I’m just thinking about you dahil pwedeng maapektuhan ang career mo” she reasoned out. “I don’t really care. I can shout to the whole world that you’re mine” “Yes you can but now is not the right time. Alam mo na kayo ni Liz ang isa sa mga pinakasikat na loveteam ngayon. You have a solid fanbase and supporters and we all know that fans are possessive, hindi nila magugustuhan if we came out, magiging kontrabida lang ako sa paningin nila” she searched for his eyes, “And besides, you know me. I don’t want attention. Ayoko ng magulo. I want my life to be as private as possible” Alden fell silent, tila nag-iisip ito ng malalim. She heard him heaved a deep sigh, a sigh of acquiscence. He moved his chair, closing their distance, “Okay babe, sige. If that’s what you want. We’re gonna keep our relationship private” Lianne nodded at him. He leaned and kissed her hair. The fire is starting to die away and they can feel the cold breeze of the night brushing past them. Alden circled his arms around her then he draped a blanket over their shoulders and body to keep them warm. They just sat there, bodies close, gazing at the night sky until the fire lose it’s flame.

Dinama niya ang kama, the space beside her was empty which means Alden has already got up. She find herself smiling. What they had last night was incredible. When the bonfire died, pumasok na sila sa loob. They kissed and make out which eventually lead to something more. Yes, after so many years they made love again, they made love almost the whole night. Nung isang araw pa ang last day ng period niya but she didn’t tell him. She wanted to test his patience and self-control but it turned out she wasn’t immune enough to his kisses that’s why she gave in. She opened her eyes upon hearing the sound of a guitar playing. She grinned, either it was out of tune or maybe hindi lang marunong ang tumutugtog. Lianne got up and sat on the bed. Alden was sitting on a chair and busily strumming the guitar. He stopped when he saw her. “Good morning princess, did I wake you up?” There goes his megawatt smile that makes her melt. It was contagious kaya napangiti din siya. “Good morning. I didn’t know you play guitar” “Well, I’ve been studying for almost a month now. Gusto ko kasing matuto maggitara para sa’yo” “Aww” natouch siya sa sinabi nito. She smiled broadly, “Are you gonna play for me?” Tumango si Alden, “Please excuse my guitar ability. I know masakit sa tenga, I’m not as good as you but I’m still learning” He started playing again with a familiar tune but the sound was really off. Pinigilan niyang tumawa as he began to sing.

“1, 2, 1, 2, 3, 4 Give me more lovin’ than I’ve ever had Make it all better when I’m feelin’ sad Tell me that I’m special even when I know I’m not

Make me feel good when I hurt so bad Barely gettin’ mad, I’m so glad I found you I love bein’ around you You make it easy, it’s as easy as 1, 2, 1, 2, 3, 4

There’s only one thing to do Three words for you I love you There’s only one way to say Those three words and that’s what I’ll do, I love you

Give me more lovin’ from the very start Piece me back together when I fall apart Tell me things you never even tell your closest friends

Make me feel good when I hurt so bad The best that I’ve had, I’m so glad I found you I love bein’ around you You make it easy, it’s as easy as 1, 2, 1, 2, 3, 4

There’s only one thing to do Three words for you I love you There’s only one way to say Those three words and that’s what I’ll do, I love you”

He stood up from his seat and walked towards her. Naupo ito sa tabi niya, gazing directly at her eyes as he sang the last two lines with all his heart. “I love you. I love you..”

Alden ended the song. She was grinning the entire time while watching him. Kahit wala sa tono ang pagtugtog nito ng gitara nagustuhan naman niya iyon. She loved the lyrics and it’s the effort that counts. His voice suits the upbeat song. Couldn’t contain her heart, she leaned close to him and gave him a short but sweet kiss. “I love you too” Lianne said to him. He beamed widely, putting his guitar away. “Can I just say you look so damn sexy wearing my shirt?” She looked down and realized she’s only wearing a big shirt and panties. Kahit hindi niya nakikita ang sarili niya she knows that she’s blushing profusely. Yumuko siya, trying to hide her face. “You’re blushing like an innocent girl” he teased. She felt her cheeks warmed up again. Seven years ago, he took her innocence and she didn’t regret it. No other guy has gotten close as to what they had. Alden is the only man she slept with. Tumayo na siya ngunit pinigilan siya nito at pinaupo ulit. “Where are you going?” “Magbibihis na ko and I’m making our breakfast” she was about to stand up but he stopped her again. “Let’s just stay here babe” he said in a pleading voice. She shook her head, muli siyang tumayo at naglakad palayo dito. Alden scooped her up in his arms and carried her towardd the bed, pilit siyang kumakawala dito but he didn’t set her down. “You can’t escape from me” he playfully dropped her on the soft bed. “Babe, magluluto nga ako” she protested. “I’m not letting you go” “Alden—” Naputol ang gusto pa niyang sabihin ng yakapin siya nito at kilitiin. Her screams and their giggles filled the entire room.

The rest of the day was spent outside. They had lunch in a nipa hut cottage beside the shore. Under the tall coconut trees, they played ball and made sandcastles. Magkatabi rin silang nagbilad sa araw, aiming to get a nice tan. Walang ibang tao doon, they had the beach all to themselves kaya para lang silang mga bata na nagkakatuwaan at naghahabulan, dipping in the water every now and then. Lianne shifted her head dahil baka nangangalay na ang braso ni Alden na hinihigaan niya. They were lying on a beach mat and waiting for the sunset. Her phone rang and Cheska’s name registered on the screen. Kahapon lang ay magkausap sila. Before she could take it inunahan na siya ni Alden na sagutin iyon. “Hello. How may I help you?” he answered, faking a british accent. “Babe give me my phone” she got up at pilit kinuha ang cellphone dito. “Cheska. Don’t mind him, si Alden lang yon” Her friend laughed on the other line, “I know right?” Alden lay on his side, nakatukod ang isang kamay sa ulo at nakatingin sa kanya. He was wearing a blue board shorts and is naked on the waist up. Lianne remained sitting next to him, getting a bit uneasy under his intense gaze. Deep admiration and appreciation was visible on his face. She was wearing a two-piece, white swimsuit topped with a white see-through cover-up. His fingers started trailing lines on her legs, tinapik niya iyon. “Do you need anything? Bakit ka tumawag?” she asked, her eyes not leaving her boyfriend. His fingers started trailing her legs again, going up to her thighs. Napatili siya dahil nakakakiliti iyon. She caught his hand upang pigilan ito. “You okay?” “Yeah, may maharot lang na bata dito” she gave Alden a killer look. “I see” Cheska replied with amusement in her voice. “I wanted to check on you and to remind you na huwag kalimutan ang—” “Yep, hindi ko nakalimutan. Nakabili na kami ng mga pasalubong. Don’t worry” “Good. So I supposed you’re enjoying your vacation?” “Of course, I’m liking every moment of it” Actually it was an understatement because she love every moment of their vacation. “Can you be more like, detailed? Tell me everything” Cheska demanded. She rolled her eyes, “Everything talaga? Over the phone? Can’t you wait til I get to see you? We’re leaving tomorrow mor—” What she was about to say was replaced by shrieks of laughter dahil hawak ni Alden ang paa niya at kinikiliti. She struggled to free her foot. “Babe stop it” inilayo niya ang paa dito. Alden’s phone rang and he answered it. She was relieved dahil tinigilan siya nito. He stood up and walked a few feet away from her. It would probably be an important call. She went back on the phone, “Hello Cheska” “Oh em freaking gee! What was that? Daig nyo pa ang honeymooners sa paglalambingan ah” “You know him, sobrang kulit” she said, laughing. Cheska is right para lang silang bagong kasal who’s making the most of their honeymoon. Babalik na sila ng Manila bukas ngunit parang ayaw pa niya. She wanted to stay like this with him forever. “O sige na, baka sabihin pa ng boyfriend mo istorbo ako and I’m intruding into your lambingan moment. So I’ma see you as soon as you get back?” “Yeah, I’ll drop by your house tomorrow. Madami akong pasalubong” “Hurry up!” Cheska chuckled on the other line. “Bye. Enjoy the rest of your vacay” “We will, bye” she cut the call. Alden was still on the phone with a very serious expression. His pleasant and playful demeanor a while ago has changed, his forehead now creased and his lips in a tight line. Whoever he was talking to had probably dropped a bomb of bad news. He remained standing there even after he had put his phone down. She couldn’t see his expression now that his back was on hers. Nilapitan niya ito. She stood behind him, wrapping her arms on his stomach and chest then pressing her torso up against his back. She can feel his heartbeat and the steady rise and fall of his chest. Alden reached for her arms, gently caressing them. “Babe sino yung tumawag?” she asked, resting her cheek on his bare back. “Uhm, wala yon. It’s just about work” “May problema ba?” “Problema? Wala” She felt him tensed up. “Are you sure?” “Yeah” he gently squeezed her arms, loosening up a little. He turned around to face her. Lianne gave him a not-so-convinced-look. Why does she find it hard to believe him? Pakiramdam niya ay may itinatago ito sa kanya. Alden kissed her temple, “Really babe, everything is fine. It’s just work” She searched his face. He was smiling at her and she can see sincerity in his eyes like there wasn’t any reason to doubt him. Maybe she was just being paranoid. Lianne nodded and let it go. He shifted their bodies towards the direction of the sun. “We’re here to see the sunset diba?” She almost forgot about that. Tumayo si Alden sa likuran niya at iniyakap ang mga braso sa kanya. She can feel that he was nozzling her hair. She rested her back on his chest and held his hands while they both looked at the sun. The moment feels so surreal, like she was in another world where only he exists. And she love that place. She felt at peace, satisfied, complete and happy. The sun is starting to set on the wide ocean. They watched the sky became ablaze with different colors of fiery orange, searing reds, and colors of rainbow being reflected off the sea. As the sun and water become one, the outer edges of the blazing sky had begin to cool with the indigo of the night. They allow themselves to melt into the glorious scene.

Alden’s kiss was powerful, like a twister that was stealing her breath and rendering her powerless. He kissed her softly at first, but it became more passionate and demanding. She thought it was so ironic in books and movies when a girl says her man made her go weak in the knees, but had realized now that it was real. Alden sat on the sofa, pulling her with him and longing to feel her against his body once more. Lianne sat on his lap, holding his face in her hands and kissing him lightly across his cheeks and forehead. He drew her towards him, instantly feeling the warmth of their bodies against one another. She felt his hands grazing, so gently, along her thigh, his warm hand against her bare skin underneath her shorts. Things became more intense and hot. He took hold of her hand and led her to the stairs. They clumsily made their way upstairs onto their bedroom. An aromatic scent welcomed them as soon as he opened the bedroom door. She looked down and was surprised to see white rose petals on the floor, making a path to the bed that was covered with white sheets and red rose petals. On each side table, half a dozen candles were lit which lightened up the room. She thought, that was where the scent was coming from. She directed her gaze to him. Alden was standing next to her with a tender look. He was probably satisfied seeing the delight in her face. Lianne beamed at him. Alden is full of surprises and she love how he makes her feel special everytime. “This is so sweet. Thank you honeybabe” niyakap niya ito ng mahigpit, making him feel how thankful she was for everything. “Anything for you” he whispered. His head moved towards her. Before she could think, Alden brushed his lips against hers, then moved his head an inch away. She could feel his warm breath. Then he kissed her again with those devastatingly soft lips. They both sank into the kiss, deepening it. It was passionate and sweet and overwhelming. There’s no other way to say it—he ravaged her mouth. Eventually he pulled away, leaving Lianne breathless and wanting.  Alden led her towards the bed and laid her back on it, slowly lifting up her blouse. As each inch of skin was revealed, he kissed it, moving up from her stomach to her breasts. Alden lifted her blouse up over her head then quickly removed his own shirt. His lips tenderly moved down her neck, then down kissing her collarbone, causing her to tremble slightly. Lianne let her hand wander onto him, gently running it over his chest, his skin was slightly tanned from the sun. He wasn’t the type to have bulging biceps, but he was perfectly toned. Alden ran a hand over her stomach. Then he lowered his hand to her shorts, unzipped them, tugged and let her remove them. When all their clothes fell to the floor, he stopped and looked into her. “Oh God, you’re beautiful.”  Lianne blushed, couldn’t speak. They gazed into each other’s eyes, swimming with desire and passion. He climbed on top of her. His touch was gentle and passionate at the same time. She could feel how much he cared for her as he ran his hands over her body. There was a look of wonder on his face as he explored every inch of her skin.

Lianne didn’t know how it was possible to be this happy in just one day. She lost count of how many times he whispered “I love you” to her. Tonight was different. It was very special. He had made her feel loved, adored, cared for and spoiled. She glanced at him in the dimness, most of the candles have already lost its flame. Alden was lying next to her, his eyes were closed. The phone call that had bothered her earlier had completely slipped off her mind. She knew there shouldn’t be any reason for her to worry about anything. As long as they have each other, nothing will ever come between them. The thought that this is their last night saddened her. She moved closer to him, snuggling into his warm embrace.

____________________________________________________

Author’s Note:

Longest chapter by far, I hope I’m forgiven. :) Thank you for reading. :) ♥♥

[mystiquemadness]

Written in the Stars -- Chapter 18

Lianne woke up to the sound of knocks on her bedroom door, that would probably be her mom. Her eyes automatically flew to the digital clock on her bedside table, past seven na pala ng gabi at hindi niya namalayan na nakatulog siya. She arrived from her flight from Cebu at three in the afternoon. While in her room and unpacking her things, everything that transpired last night went back to her which made her break down. She crawled into her bed and silently wept, at nakatulugan na nga niya iyon. Hearing the knocks once again, tumayo na siya at binuksan ang pinto. “I’m sorry if I woke you up sweetie..” bungad nito sa kanya. “Okay lang mommy. Do you need anything?” she asked while she study her mom. Vicky look younger for her age. They have the same facial features at madami ang nagsasabi na dito siya nagmana. “Well, dinner’s ready, kumain muna tayo para makapagpahinga ka na pagkatapos” “Okay” Lianne tangled her arm with her mom and they made their way to the condo’s dining room. “You went out earlier, you were with dad?” she asked casually. Pagdating kasi niya kanina ay wala ito sa condo. “Oo” tipid na sagot nito. A wide, gleeful smile formed on her face. She didn’t expect these turn of events but she was very happy with the developments between her parents. Para kasing bumalik ang mga ito sa pagiging teenagers at muling nagliligawan. The smell and sight of food welcomed her senses the moment they reached the dining table. She inspect the food in front of her, there’s baked macaroni and cheese, roasted chicken and tossed veggie salad. Lianne served herself with the baked mac. Nilagyan din niya ang plato ng mommy niya then she shoved a forkful of the cheesy pasta into her mouth. “Mom, I swear you cook the best mac and cheese” she grinned at her. “Of course you would say that” her mother said unconvinced, watching her feast on the food. “No, really. It’s creamy, not dry like the usual. It’s super cheesy, rich, ooey gooey and yeah, in my opinion it’s the best mac and cheese ever” Hindi na ito kumontra. Vicky just beamed at her in amusement and satisfaction. Nahagip ng mata niya ang isang maleta na nakatayo sa gilid. “Why is your suitcase—” she stopped abruptly, realizing ngayon ang flight ng mommy at kuya niya pabalik ng San Diego. She groaned in frustration, “Di man lang tuloy tayo nakapag-bonding ng matagal bago ka umalis. But to make it up to you, sasama akong maghatid sa airport” “Okay, sure. Your dad also offered na ihatid kami” ipinatong nito ang palad sa kamay niya at pinisil iyon. “Don’t worry, when I get back we’ll have all the time in the world to do everything” Vicky decided to tender her resignation from her work, settle everything there then go back here to stay for good. She had been working all her life at gusto naman nito na magpahinga at ienjoy ang buhay, spend time with her family and relatives which she rarely got the chance to do. Lianne stood up and gave her mother a short, affectionate hug, “Sorry, it slipped off my mind” she said apologetically. “I understand anak. I know you have too much on your plate right now” her mother gave her a knowing look and Lianne understood what she was implying. “We may not talk like the way we used to but by just looking at you alam ko na may problema ka dito” her index finger pointed at her chest. She was surprised at how easily her mother can read her. She knows about her first heartbreak dahil isa ito sa iilan na sinabihan niya tungkol doon. But right now she doesn’t know how to start telling her dilemma, kahit siya ay naguguluhan sa sarili niya. When she didn’t respond, muli itong nagtanong. “Is it about Sam?” Vicky knows about Sam and their real score and in fact, she approves of him. But she was clueless about her and Alden’s recent encounters. Hindi nito alam na muling nagkrus ang landas nila. “Walang problema kay Sam, he’s nice and all, it’s just that.. I don’t know.. Naguguluhan ako” “You’re unsure of your feelings for him?” she asked. “Lianne, if you are not crazy about the person you are with, take a step back. You will be doing yourself and him a favor if your heart isn’t in it after all this time. Palayain mo ang sarili mo kung hindi ka naman sigurado sa kanya. Hindi mo basta na lang mapipilit ang puso mo na magmahal” She fell into deep thought. Sam and her are okay, they actually click together but there is a void inside her heart that he cannot fill like the way Alden did. If Alden didn’t step into the picture will it turn out differently? Kung hindi ba siya bumalik sa Pilipinas o kung hindi sila muling pinagtagpo ay matututunan na rin kaya niyang mahalin si Sam? Deep inside she knew the answers but her mind refuses to believe it. “I guess you’re right mom. I think I should be alone for awhile, or maybe a long while to sort these feelings out” she uttered softly. “I suggest you ask for a vacation. Go somewhere peaceful and find yourself” she adviced. Lianne nodded in agreement. That’s what she really needed, a break from all of this. She admire her mom for being strong enough to forgive her dad and welcome him back with open arms. “Mom why? I mean what made you take him back pagkatapos ng mga nangyari sa inyo ni daddy?” she wasn’t questionning or disagreeing with her mother’s decision because she knew her dad loves her mom so much, she just wanted to know her reasons. Nag-isip muna ito bago sumagot. “Sometimes a relationship ends for the wrong reasons. People give up too easily and take the easy way out, which is to separate. I think yun ang nangyari sa amin ng dad mo” Lianne just listened and contemplated what she had just said. Did she give up that easily on Alden? Yes, she didn’t even give him the benefit of the doubt, she didn’t hear his side first. But can he blame her? Bata pa siya noon and she let anger and hurt drive her. “He may have let down or hurt me but sometimes it’s really unavoidable. We will end up getting hurt at some point dahil nagmamahal tayo. No one and no relationship is perfect. Kahit ako I’ve had my fair share of mistakes” her mom continued. Hearing that from her, narealize niya na she had been cruel to Alden. She broke up with him and hated him for just a single mistake. “I realized that if you still both feel attached and the feelings are still there, it wouldn’t hurt giving him a chance.. Or else it will haunt you for the rest of your life. You have to let the past go and allow yourselves to forgive. If he is trying his very best to not just apologize, but actually show you he mean business, then isn’t he worth taking back?” Bakit pakiramdam niya ay parang patama sa kanya ang mga sinasabi ng mommy niya? With her and Alden, the sparks are still flying, there’s no question about it. At kagabi lang inamin nito sa kanya na mahal pa rin siya nito. Should she give him a chance? But is he worth it? “And the key to making it work the next time around? Sit down and talk about what caused the rift, and more importantly, decide how it can be fixed as a couple. I had a heart to heart talk with your dad and we agreed and compromised on a lot of things kaya heto kami ngayon. Our relationship has turned out to be better than I imagined, different but better” “Those were the reasons why you took him back?” Lianne managed to ask. Vicky chuckled. “Yes but the main reason would be love.. Sa kabila ng lahat ng nangyari sa amin I still care about your dad because I love him.. Hindi naman nawala yun kahit naghanap siya ng iba” she paused then smiled, “Siya ang unang lalaking minahal ko. I guess you can never deny the power of first love and true love. It’s strange pero siya lang ang lalaking minahal ko or I’d say he is the only man my heart is capable of loving. And I know, no other man will ever come close to..” Her mom was still talking but she couldn’t hear her anymore. Some words struck her and it kept on echoing inside her head. “..siya lang ang lalaking minahal ko or I’d say he is the only man my heart is capable of loving”

There was a long silence which made her anxious and on the edge. Her hands became clammy even with her condo unit’s air conditioning system on full blast. Lianne waited for what seemed like an eternity to hear his response. “Bakit? I need to know why you want to end this” “I’m sorry Sam, you know how much I tried.. But this set up just doesn’t feel right. I feel bad na hindi ko magawang suklian ang pagmamahal na ibinibigay mo sa akin” she was afraid to look at him. He sat down next to her, “You don’t have to do this. Sinabi ko sa’yo kaya ko namang maghintay” “I know but I’m not sure if this will work out lalo na ngayon na babalik ka na sa California” “Is this really about it? O may iba pang mas malaking dahilan?” Sam stood up and faced her. “My mind is so cluttered right now. Gulong-gulo lang talaga a—” Sam interrupted her, “Maybe this is about Alden. You still have feelings for him at gusto mo siyang balikan” there was a hint of resentment in his tone. Lianne was surprised with his straightforwardness but she still managed to reply. “Gusto ko lang munang mapag-isa ngayon. I need a break.. Gusto kong mag-isip. Weigh everything and find out what I really want” Sam nodded repetitively. He sat down slowly beside her as if his knees suddenly became weak and powerless. He fell silent. His hands were clasped together and he was staring at the carpeted floor. “Sam..” she called him. His eyes were still glued to the floor when he spoke, “Noon akala ko nasaktan ka lang ng sobra at natakot na magmaghal ulit. I thought you were just shattered from your first heartbreak that’s why you couldn’t open yourself up to me. But now I get it. You couldn’t do it because your past is still holding you back dahil mula noon hanggang ngayon siya ang mahal mo” Lianne was blown away by what he said. Hindi niya alam kung ano ang isasagot dito. Sam faced her, “Tama ako diba? You couldn’t even deny it” he chuckled but in an anguish way, “I thought I can help you forget about it and move on but..” he paused and looked away, “but no matter what I do, I couldn’t. It’s really hard. I can never be good enough—” “No, don’t you ever think you’re not good enough” she cut him off. “You are far better, ako lang talaga ang may problema. Believe me you are the perfect man every woman wishes for. And I am so stupid because I have you but I’m letting you go..” she whispered. Sam was not saying a word, he was just listening intently. “I know, naging sobrang unfair ako sa’yo. You did everything you can to help me but all I did was to hurt you. I feel guilty and I really feel bad. And it makes me feel even more unworthy of your love. Sam, you deserve someone better, you really do” “I never thought this can hurt so much. Hindi ko alam if I can get through this” Lianne hold his hands, “You are strong, madali mo lang makakalimutan ito. Someday you’re just gonna laugh at this” Sam squeezed her hand, feeling its softness and warmth. “I don’t want this to end this way but I guess I don’t have a choice kundi respetuhin ang desisyon mo. But please don’t ask me to be your friend Lianne. Not now” Lianne understood what he meant by that. Hindi ibig sabihin ay tinatapos na nito ang pagkakaibigan nila, he only wanted to be away from her for awhile so he can forget and move on. She hugged him tightly hoping she could make him feel how sorry and thankful she was at the same time. Alam niya na malaki ang kasalanan niya dito and there is nothing she can do now para makabawi. Sam hugged her back and it felt comforting. Mamimiss niya ito but she had to make that decision. Iyon ang makabubuti sa kanilang dalawa. He withdrew from the hug and he cupped her cheek with his right hand, “I hope you find the happiness you’ve been searching for Lianne. When you do, don’t let it go” he smiled at her but it did not reach his eyes. “And promise me you wont come crying back to me coz I wont be there” She was surprised by his last words. Lianne searched his eyes, trying to find something there but she could only see resolution. He suddenly seized her arm and pulled her against him in an embrace. “Dahil hindi ko alam kung ano’ng kaya kong gawin sa kanya if I learned that he treated you wrong or hurt you. I will never forgive him for that” Sam whispered to her. She returned his hug. God has been good for giving her such a great friend like Sam. Right now he is still hurting but she is certain that he’s going to be okay. “I’m gonna miss you Sammy” she murmured in his arms.

She found her new freedom liberating. She can do anything or go anywhere she want without someone asking for constant updates or her whereabouts. Katulad ngayon, she’s heading to Batangas by herself. Humingi siya ng one week vacation para makapagrelax and to take her mind off things for awhile. Sam left two days ago. Hindi ito pumayag na ihatid niya sa airport because he said it wont be easy for him and he’s afraid that he might change his mind. Hinayaan na lang niya ito. Naniniwala siya na dadating ang araw na magbabalik ang dati nilang pagsasamahan. Alden was out of sight since that night at the beach, four days na niya itong hindi nakikita. She had no idea where he is, wala ito sa condo niya. Marahil ay sinusunod lang nito ang sinabi niya na huwag itong lalapit sa kanya. She found out at the office that he asked for an indefinite leave. Because it’s going to be a long drive, she stopped at a gasoline station para magpa-gas. Pumasok din siya sa katabing convenience store to buy bottled water, chips and cookies para makain niya while driving to her destination. Plano niya na magcheck-in sa hotel or rent a room when she get there. Lianne grabbed a big bag of Lays and a pringles. “Julie?” Lumingon siya and she saw a familiar looking woman standing beside her. “I knew it was you. Kanina pa kita tinitingnan, I was hesitant to approach you thinking baka hindi ikaw. Ang laki kasi ng pinagbago mo” She knew that voice, hinding hindi niya makakalimutan ang boses nito. “Chrissy?” She seemed different now. Lianne always see her as a snob, bitchy and stuck-up kind of girl. But right now there was a different aura about her. She has this pleasant and friendly atmosphere. The woman smiled. “Yes, ako nga. Bumalik ka na pala from the states. How are you?” “Yeah, actually three months na ako dito and I’m doing good. It’s been a long time, how have you been?” she gave a shy smile. “I’m great” she lifted her left hand, showing her ring. “I’m married now and I have two kids” she beamed at her. “I wonder if he knows you’re back” mahinang sabi nito habang nag-iisip. “Uhm.. Julie.. I know I’m seven years late but I want to apologize for what I did that night. Malaki ang kasalanan ko sa inyo” “Matagal na yon Chrissy, it’s all behind us now”

Lianne pulled over to the side of the street and turned off her car’s engine. Dumukdok siya sa steering wheel. Everything that she had learned that day had made her feel weak. Her mind replayed her conversation with Chrissy earlier. “I know but I feel guilty. I’m not proud of what I have done. Kasalanan ko kung bakit kayo naghiwalay” Chrissy hold her hand. “Julie walang kasalanan si RJ, it was all my fault. Your relationship was strong, it was base on pure love kaya nagselos ako at nainggit. I was so immature that time, I’m really sorry” “Don’t blame it all on yourself. May kasalanan din naman siya sa mga nangyari” “But in the first place, di naman mangyayari yun if I didn’t barge in. I was set to break you up and I suceeded. I thought by doing that he would come back to me because I was still in love with him. Ginawa ko ang lahat para bumalik siya sa akin but I failed, instead he hated me” Chrissy paused for awhile. “I saw how deeply devastated he was after you left. I’ve never seen him like that. Nasaktan siya ng sobra and witnessing all of that dun ko narealize na ikaw talaga ang mahal niya. I realized my mistakes” Lianne was silent, nakikinig lang siya sa mga sinasabi nito. “Humingi ako ng tawad sa kanya and he forgave me. We became friends, would you believe that? Sa kabila ng nagawa ko he still accepted me as a friend. He is such a good man” she half smiled half grimaced. “RJ really love you. Years passed pero hindi ka niya nakalimutan. Whenever we see each other he always talk about you and how he wishes na bumalik ka. I hope you find it in your heart to forgive him too. Afterall wala naman talaga siyang kasalanan” Lianne groaned, parang gusto niyang iuntog ng paulit ulit ang ulo niya sa manibela ng kotse niya. Alden has been telling the truth all along but she refused to believe him. She had pushed him away. Kailangan niyang makita at makausap ito. When she looked up saka lang niya napagmasdan ang lugar na hinintuan niya. She knew the place by heart. May mga ilang pagbabago doon because now there was a laundry shop and a hardware/automobile parts shop beside it. But the house is still the same, she had been to it many times before. Hindi niya alam kung paano siya nakarating doon. She was just driving with no particular destination and she unconsciously end up here. Lianne felt apprehensive as she step out of the car outside of Alden’s parents house. After awhile her feet dragged her inside.

Isang kasambahay ang nagbukas ng pinto para sa kanya. Hinanap niya si Alden dito, the maid asked for her name at saka muna ito pumasok sa loob. She was asked to wait at the terrace then after awhile the maid returned and ushered her in. “Ma’am maupo ka muna, pakihintay na lang si sir” She offered her a smile, “Thank you” Tumango lang ito sa kanya at umalis na. She was glad to know that Alden was here at makikita niya ito but she was also on the edge, nervous about how he would react after the last time. Her eyes roamed around the house, the interior is still the same. Napansin lang niya na nabawasan ang ilang decorations at napalitan din ang floors at carpet but the house still speaks class. She saw the grand piano at the same spot which is beside the staircase. Memories came rushing back to her, good memories of their past. Hindi niya napigilan na lumapit doon. Like a magnet it always pulls her to it. She sat on the chair and started pressing the ivory keys. Then she froze when her eyes directed into a particular object. A framed photo was displayed just above the grand piano. A photo she know too well. Kinuha niya iyon, she coudn’t describe how she was feeling at the moment as she stared at it. It was a stolen shot. A guy and a girl were sitting with their backs on the camera. The girl was playing the piano in the picture while the guy sitting beside her was staring at her. It was their photo. Meron siyang kopya ng litrato ngunit matagal na niyang hindi nakikita iyon. As she studied the photo it seemed like she was seeing it for the first time. She now see it in a new light. The picture speaks of a thousand words. The way Alden stared at her expresses a lot. It is filled with passion, desire, admiration, care, dreaminess all captured in one gaze. His eyes were sparkling and deep thoughts were running through his mind. It is soft and pure and never malicious. It is like breathing in new air that was encompassing. No one can deny it was a look of love. “Si Raiza ang nagdisplay ng picture na yan” She almost jumped out of surprise. Muntik na rin niyang mabitawan ang photo frame na hawak. Lianne stood up and turned to look at the person who spoke. He was sitting a few feet from her. “Tito Ricky” she uttered. She didn’t expect to see him. “Good afternoon po” she greeted politely. “Good afternoon Lianne, why don’t you take a seat?” he pointed at the sofa just beside where he was sitting. Lianne? It made her wonder how he knew that name. Sa pagkakaalala niya ay kilala siya nito sa pangalang Julie. Ibinalik na niya ang photo frame sa dating kinalalagyan nito. She walked towards his direction and sat down next to him. Noon lang niya napansin na nakaupo ito sa wheelchair. She wondered what happened to him, he was in the best of health the last time she saw him. “When the maid told me you are here I quickly told her na patuluyin ka kahit sinabi niya na si Alden ang hinahanap mo. Wala siya dito ngayon but I’ve been wanting to talk to you” he declared in a serious tone. Nakaramdam siya ng kaba at pagtataka. Bakit siya gustong makausap nito? She found her voice, “Tungkol po saan?” “A lot of things” he answered shortly. Lianne just stared at him with a puzzled look. Marahil ay nabasa nito ang pagtataka at mga katanungan sa mata niya kaya nagsalita na ito. “Alden and I are really close and I know my son really well. Alam ko ang mga nangyayari sa kanya dahil nagkukwento siya sa akin. He opens up to me with whatever is troubling him” he said while staring unseeingly at the figurine at the center table. “Ikinuwento niya sa akin ang tungkol sa paghihiwalay ninyo, you moving to the states, ang pagbalik mo sa bansa pagkatapos ng pitong taon, ang muli ninyong pagkikikita, pagtatrabaho sa iisang kompanya, lahat lahat. I saw how he took it. Nakita ko kung gaano siya nahirapan. You should’ve given him a chance to defend himself, to explain his side” “Nakapagpaliwanag na po siya and I understand it now. Malinaw na po sa akin ang mga nangyari noon. That’s why I am looking for him para magkausap kami” “You only heard half of the story. Madami ka pang hindi nalalaman” She was bewildered by his last statement. Ano pa ang hindi niya alam? “After you break up with him, he stayed away because he wanted you to cool down first, para maging maayos ang pag-uusap ninyo. He had no idea you were leaving in a week’s time kaya nga binigyan ka niya ng mahabang panahon para makapag-isip. On the fourth day, he decided na puntahan ka na at kausapin ka. Ngunit hindi niya nagawa because I got into an accident. My car was a total wreck. I was in the ICU for days. Hindi niya ako maiwanan lalo na ang mommy at kapatid niya dahil parehong mahina ang loob ng mga yon. Pinagpaliban na lang muna niya ang pagpunta sa’yo thinking you would understand once he explained” he paused to see her reaction. What she heard was completely surprising. Walang nakapagsabi sa kanya ng tungkol sa mga pangyayaring iyon. She can actually imagine how hard it was for him. “Nalaman lang niya na aalis ka na sa mismong araw ng flight mo. Gustong gusto ka niyang puntahan but my condition became critical, I suffered a stroke while her mom had a nervous breakdown. She was also confined in the hospital. Alden was torn between seeing you and staying with us. Mahal na mahal ka niya at mahalaga ka sa kanya but he couldn’t just leave us in that condition lalo na at wala siyang ibang karamay ng mga panahong iyon, tanging ang kapatid lang niya but Raiza was so young then” “I’m sorry tito, hindi ko po talaga alam ang mga nangyari” she sincerely apologized. She feels really sorry for Alden because he had to go through it alone. She wasn’t there for him when he needed her the most. “It was all my fault. Everything is all because of me. Sana nagawa niya ang mga gusto niyang gawin. He shouldn’t have sacrificed so much” his face was tormented and twisted from agony. Lianne tried to console him. “Huwag nyo pong sisihin ang sarili ninyo tito Ricky. It was an accident at walang may gustong mangyari yon” “I was drunk when I crashed into a lamp post. Lasing ako noon because I was fired from my job, sa kompanyang isa ako sa mga nagpalago. Nasangkot ako sa isang anomalya.. I admit I was guilty, but I swear I quitted dahil nakonsensiya ako. But the people whom I considered as friends, they set me up to clear their names at ako ang nadiin. They took everything from me, my properties gaya ng mga lupain, town house, rest house, cars, they even froze my bank account. All that was left was this house” he paused to scan the house with a look full of gratitude and love. “Dahil sa nangyari napilitan si Alden na huminto sa pag-aaral. He sold his own car and motorbike to support my medical finances. Pumasok siya sa isang hotel as a bartender. Although Raiza has an educational plan he still had to work para masuportahan ang pangbaon at ibang bayarin sa school. That was where a talent scout spotted him and persuaded him to try modelling and the rest as they say is history” his eyes shifted to her direction. “I wanted to do something but instead I became a burden because I’m tied up in this wheelchair forever. I’m paralized” She saw pain, distraught and guilt in his eyes. Nakaramdam siya ng matinding awa para dito. Dati itong tinitingala ngunit sa isang iglap ay bumagsak ito. “Alden took over my position in this family. Siya ang tumayong padre de pamilya, our breadwinner. He pay for everything we needed. He worked hard para makaipon. Dahil sa pag-aartista nakabili siya ng condo unit, kotse, he gave us capital to start the laundry and car parts business outside. Ni hindi man lang niya nagawang tapusin ang pag-aaral o sundin ang puso niya dahil sa mabigat na responsibilidad na maagang napunta sa kanya” mahinang sabi nito. She can feel his genuine repentance and regret. His revelation was a lot to take in. Wala siyang kaalam-alam sa mahirap na pinagdaanan ni Alden. She can imagine his struggles and sacrifice just to fend for his family. Ricky continued, “Sa kabila ng mga nangyari, he never complained. Hindi niya kailanman ipinaramdam sa amin na nagsisissi siya for choosing us over his own happiness. He lived his life. He managed to survive and move on pero simula ng bumalik ka I saw the difference. I have never seen him so alive, so inspired and so happy in seven years” he turned to face her, hinawakan siya nito sa balikat, “Lianne, my son loves you so much, all through this years.. If you feel the same way, please hwag mo na siyang pahirapan pa. I want nothing more than to see him truly happy”

Everything was overwhelming, she felt like someone had drained out all her energy. Nanghihina siyang lumabas ng pintuan ng bahay ng magulang ni Alden, she stopped at the terrace. Kalat na ang dilim sa paligid, ni hindi niya namalayan ang oras. Lianne sunk to the floor and hugged her knees. She tried to bit back the sob and blink away the tears. Seven years. She couldn’t believe she hated him for several years. Nagtanim siya ng galit dito dahil sa mga inakala niyang pagkakamali nito ngunit wala naman pala itong kasalanan. He was just a victim of circumstances. She knew it was also her fault. Pinairal niya ang pagmamatigas. She was close-minded and she didn’t listen to his explanation kaya heto at mahabang panahon ang nasayang nila. She needed to see Alden to patch things up with him but it was late. Ricky gave her Alden’s phone number, sinubukan niyang tawagan iyon but his phone was off. At this moment, he was probably on a plane, on his flight to Europe and she doesn’t know when he will be coming back. Tears welled her eyes. Ilang beses ba nitong sinubukan na magpaliwanag sa kanya? But she ignored him and pushed him away. Then when he got the chance to explain his side, hindi niya ito pinaniwalaan at malakas na sampal pa ang ibinigay niya dito. A car’s headlight flashed at her that made her look up. Pumasok ang isang sasakyan sa malaking bakuran na iyon. As the car was maneouvering to the garage which is a few feet away from where she was, she felt all her insides twists and her heart made an unusual flip. It was his car. If she remember right, his car was parked at the condo’s parking lot earlier and he was away. Sino ang nagddrive ng kotse niya? She quickly stood up to see who the driver was. Hinintay niyang lumabas ito sa kotse. She waited anxiously to the point of hyperventilating. She heavily breathed in and out. As soon as the man climbed out of his car and she saw his frame, Lianne instantly ran towards his direction, abandoning all sense of qualms and reservations. From her blurry vision due to her unstoppable tears she saw Alden stop on his tracks when he saw her running from afar. Surprise was written all over his face. She did all her best not to trip or stumble on the ground. All she wanted was to get to him as fast as she could. This time, she was prepared to bare all and put her feelings on the line. She swore to herself she will never let him slip away, not ever. The moment she reached him, she hugged him tightly like she would never let him go. She let herself drown in his scent which she misses so much. She melted into his embrace, feeling their hearts beating loudly. His arms is where she belong, where she’s safe and secured. Lianne clung to him as her tears continously fall. “I’m sorry” she whispered on his chest then she looked up at him, “I didn’t know..” she sobbed. Alden took a step back, creating a space so he could look at her. He held her face with his hands. “Sshhh.. It’s okay..” his fingers gently wiped the tears falling on her cheeks then he planted a soft kiss on her forehead. Alden tucked a few strands of her hair behind her ear as their gazes locked, finding answers from the deep pool of their eyes. For a few seconds they just stared at each other. Then his face slowly went down on hers, he brushed his lips against her plump ones. Their kiss was gentle but captivating. The way his lips connected with hers felt right. Lianne closed her eyes, she couldn’t describe how he made her feel. The kiss was short but it was the sweetest kiss she ever had. Alden drew her close to him after, imprisoning her in a warm embrace. There’s nothing to say. Silence expresses more than words. Their hearts and body has spoken and understood, bridging the long gap. She felt him kissing her hair and his hands gently brushing her back. “I love you” he whispered to her ear. “I love you too” she murmured. She felt serene and complete.

*Insert Coldplay’s The Scientist here*

_________________________________________________

Author’s Note:

♬ Nobody said it was easy It’s such a shame for us to part Nobody said it was easy No one ever said it would be this hard Oh, take me back to the start.. ♬

Happy anniversary DENLIEs!

Thank you for reading :)

[mystiquemadness]

Written in the Stars -- Chapter 17

"I just wanted to see you" she said casually. He gave her a pained look and he scolded her, “Pero hindi mo naman kailangang tumakas just to see me” After coming from a vacation, Madi and her parents decided na ipasok siya sa isang drug rehabilitation facility. Her dad was disappointed with her ngunit suportado naman nito ang treatment ng anak. Madi was sitting a seat apart from him sa sofa ng living room ng condo unit niya, tumabi ito sa kanya. “I know.. Babalik naman talaga ako. I’m just missing you so bad babe” Alden looked away because he couldn’t say the same thing to her. “Three weeks pa lang ako doon but it feels like a dragging three months” Madi blurted out. Paalis na siya papuntang Cebu when she appeared on his door. And he was not that rude to just dismiss her kaya pinatuloy muna niya ito sa loob. “You have to be good para makalabas ka na agad, so you can get on with your life” he said. “So we can get on with our lives” she corrected, emphasizing the word ‘our’. “Kapag nakalabas na ko we’ll get back together right? Gaya ng dati” He watched her face became suddenly filled with hope. Alden closed his eyes, choosing the words that wont hurt her. “I don’t wanna give you false hopes Madi. Things are different now” he whispered. Madi’s face turned serious. She held his hands tightly. “No.. Don’t say that.. Kahit noon pa naman we were on and off hindi ba? We just needed time. We broke up countless of times but we always get back together” He couldn’t tell her that he only did that dahil kagustuhan iyon ng mommy niya and that he was secretly hoping he can learn to love her in return but it didn’t happen. “I’m afraid, not this time” Alden stated clearly as he withdrew his hands from her. Ayaw niya na umasa ito. Madi’s expression changed. “Bakit? Dahil may bago ka na?” matigas na tanong nito. “Wala” his eyes darted to his big travelling bag in the corner of the room. “I already told you the reasons. I don’t want to be unfair to you” He was telling the truth. Walang bagong babae sa buhay niya because he was steadfastly and whole-heartedly in love with the same woman. “I don’t believe you” her eyes were now filled with anger. “I can’t blame you” he somehow felt guilty for their break up but he thought it is better than to be with her when he knew deep inside his heart na wala siyang nararamdaman para dito at ibang babae ang mahal niya. “Madi you should do your best para ayusin ang buhay mo. Someday you’re gonna find the right guy for you” Madi clutched his arm and demanded, “I wont let you go until you tell me who that girl is” Alden shook his head. There is no point telling her. The girl he’s in love with is happy with another man. He realized Madi and him are alike. They are both in love with someone who doesn’t love them back. “I’m really sorry. And I’m wishing the best for you” he meant it. Inalis niya ang kamay nito na nakakapit sa kanya. “I need to go Madison, I have a plane to catch”

—————

She was relieved na hindi pa naman pala siya late. Ngunit nakapila na ang mga kasali sa entourage at any moment ay magsisimula na ang kasal. Lianne scanned the church’s porch and spotted the bridal car. She went to it and knocked on the glass window. Cheska opened the car’s door and she got in. She hugged her instantly and then she withdrew to look at her. “Look at you. You’re glowing, sis. And you are the prettiest bride I have seen” she said appreciatively. Cheska chuckled, “Siyempre maganda kasi ang maid of honor ko so dapat maglevel-up din ako” She could see that her friend is overflowing with joy and it made her happy. “Finally, this is the day” she was smiling. “I’m so happy for you sissy. Hindi ka naman siguro magru-run away bride?” she joked. “Of course not! You know I have been waiting for this. I’m worried na baka yung groom ko ang mag-run away” pabiro ding sabi ni Cheska. “I think there are enough people to stop him” Lianne teased and they both laughed. Someone knocked on the window and gestured na nag-uumpisa na. “We better get going. And you, just breathe and enjoy every moment of it” “I will. Thank you sissy” they hugged once again. “Alright. See you in a while” Lianne climbed out of the car and slipped into the line. She attended the rehearsals yesterday kaya alam na niya kung saan ang pwesto niya. She flew to Cebu yesterday morning and checked in with the same hotel na paggaganapan ng wedding reception. Kaya that same day, nakahabol siya sa rehearsal. The wedding coordinator gave her a hand-wrapped bouquet of colorful flowers for her to carry, she uttered a thank you. She wondered if Alden is there. Wala kasi ito kahapon sa rehearsals. He probably couldn’t make it dahil busy ito. Nag-umpisa nang lumakad ang nasa unahan niya, she readied herself. Lianne ran her hand on the fabric of her gown, making sure na wala iyong gusot. She started walking on the carpeted aisle filled with flower petals in tune with the wedding march song. Most of the faces she passed were unfamiliar ones. Everyone’s attention was drawn on her, camera lights flashed here and there. She almost froze when she looked ahead of her. Even from afar she recognized the tall frame with a broad shoulders near the altar. Her pulse beat so fast that she could hardly breathe. Alden was standing there, waiting at the end of the aisle, eyes trained on her. How many times did she imagine this scene a few years back? She couldn’t recall. Now it felt strange. She wonder what was going on in his mind. As she got nearer she kept her eyes on him. He was staring with an amazed expression and underneath that was a look of longing. Or maybe she was just imagining that? He looked great wearing a black suit. Alden’s adoring eyes did not break contact with her as she made her way to her chair. The feelings that he rose from her was indescribable.

Her striking figure framed the church’s doorway. A breathlessness caught him. He couldn’t take his eyes off her. She was breathtakingly beautiful and radiant in a full length, strapless royal blue satin gown. The gown was empire cut and there were intricate bead details just below the bustline. An amethyst color of silk fabric was added on the waistline to accentuate the royal blue and amethyst color motiff. Lianne’s flawless, cream-colored skin shines and glows against the deep-colored fabric. Her hair falls down in soft curls and her make-up was lightly done giving her angelic face a natural look. She walked with grace and elegance. Lianne was a picture of dazzling perfection. As she got nearer, Alden felt like he was being hypnotized by her. Everyone and everything was a blur and all he can see is Lianne. It’s as if they were the only people there. For a brief moment, Alden actually envisioned her as his stunning bride walking down the aisle to meet him, to exchange beautiful vows to forever. The scene he envisioned bursted like a bubble when Lianne’s gaze broke contact with him. He knew it was too impossible to become a reality. He breathed out a resigned sigh as hopelessness engulfed him. A dream, that’s all it would be.

Lianne stole a quick glance at him. Madaming lumalapit sa table nila to ask for an autograph or a pic with him. She could see that he likes the attention he was getting. Alden is very accomodating to his fans, hindi ito namimili at pinagbibigyan ang lahat. It was one good trait that she admire about him. They were now at the hotel for the wedding reception. A band was performing on the mini stage and the food was now being served. Earlier, the wedding ceremony went by solemnly and smoothly. She also noticed that he was enjoying the company of his new found friend. The girl named Jenny is obviously into him. Sa simbahan pa lang kasi ay kinakausap na nito si Alden. Pagdating nila kanina, they were ushered to a big table, magkakasama doon ang mga abay. Alden held out a chair for Lianne and when he was about to sit next to her, Jenny and another girl sat in between them. At dahil may nakaupo na rin sa isang side ni Lianne, he was left with no choice but to sit next to Jenny. Katabi ni Lianne on her right side si Lara, a friend of Cheska. They were once introduced before kaya kahit paano ay may kakilala siya at may nakakausap sa table na iyon. Ipinakilala rin siya ni Lara sa kaibigan nito. “Lianne I would like you to meet my friend dahil kanina pa niya ako kinukulit— Ouch!” Lara squirmed on her seat. Nagtatakang tiningnan niya si Lara. Nakatingin ito sa katabing lalaki and it seemed like they were discussing something. “Anyway, this is Ryan, a friend and co-theater actor namin ni Cheska. He’s a clown, egoist, jock, action hero, chick magnet and mr. big shot all in one” nakangiting pakilala nito sa katabi. “And Ryan this is Lianne” Lara introduced them. The guy extended his right hand, inabot naman niya iyon at nakipagkamay. “Don’t believe everything she said, she was exaggerating” he defended himself while smiling. “It is my pleasure to meet you” “Okay?” she said confusedly. His smile was contagious which made her smile back. It earned a curious glance from Alden. He was sneering but she just ignored him. “It’s nice to meet you too” Lianne slowly withdrew her hand. Ryan is cute but he looked younger. He’s probably just around nineteen or twenty years old. Lara and Ryan are a good company. She admire the type of friendship they have, they are very at ease with each other. Ryan is very funny and playful, he always crack jokes that makes her laugh. Hindi rin ito nauubusan ng kwento. He is the type of person na madaling makapalagayan ng loob. Kaya naman when he asked her to save a dance with him ay pumayag na rin siya. Wala namang masama kung pagbigyan niya ito sa isang sayaw. But she’s secretly wishing na later on ay makalimutan din nito ang usapan nila.

"Let me now present the maid of honor for her speech, the bestfriend of the bride, the very lovely Julie Anne San Jose!" Lianne got up from her seat and the male host handed her the microphone. “Thank you” she whispered at him. She quickly scanned the whole room. It was filled with colorful flowers, baloons and decorations, the royal blue and amethyst color motiff was everywhere. There is a mini stage in the corner of the big function room where a band had just performed. The bride and groom are at a table in the center. On each side of them are long tables occupied by the principal sponsors. Sitting at the table near the right side are the parents of the married couple. And here on the left side is a big table where they sat, which is for the bridesmaids, groomsmen, bestman and maid of honor. There were several other tables around the big function room occupied by invited guests. Lianne cleared her throat and started her speech, “I first met Cheska in a Philosophy class on our first day in college. We quickly became friends after joining forces over a mutual dislike of a girl at school” she heard laughs from the crowd. Cheska was also laughing. “Such a cliché thing for women to bond over, I know, but nevertheless it sourced our lasting friendship” she grinned. “From then on, we were inseperable. She was there to celebrate my success, encourage me with my failures and help me deal with my first heartbreak” she paused for awhile. Cheska gave her a knowing look. Lianne’s eyes involuntarily flew to Alden. He was watching and listening intently. She couldn’t make out his expression. She quickly tore her eyes away from him and continued, “Even when I moved to California, we never lost communication. Cheska is the first person I ask for advice because she knows me like no one else. She is an amazing person, friend, sister and I have no doubt that she will be an amazing wife to Drew” she looked at the married couple at the center. “I wasn’t there when they first met but over our long telephone calls and chats, Cheska hinted about him. Eventhough it was clear that she was excited about him, she was secretive and shy about telling me everything. I wasn’t entirely sure what the deal was and it made me wonder what on earth was going on with them” she teased. “But Drew has proven himself a great guy and over the last seven years I see how happy he makes Cheska. And there is nothing more I, as her bestfriend could ask for” she heard ‘awwws’ from the audience. Cheska was wiping her eyes with a tissue when she looked at her. She took a deep breath, keeping herself from being emotional. She had to finish her speech. “Frencheska, Andrew what can I say? I am so happy that you have found each other. With all my heart, I wish you the best for your life together” she said, smiling. She saw Cheska and Drew mouthed ‘thank you’ at her and she nodded at them. “Now, can I invite you all to raise your glasses in a toast to Mr. and Mrs. Gonzales” Lianne raised her glass and continued, “I wish you love, laughter and happily ever after. To Cheska and Drew, cheers!” she drank from her wine glass and everyone did the same. She heard an applause after.

The people closest to the married couple each gave out their speeches and toasts. Alden gave a short but humourous one which entertained the audience. Hindi nawala ang mga wedding traditions like the newlyweds’ first dance, dance with the parents and the garter and bouquet toss. The garter was thrown first at si Alden ang nakasalo nito. When the bridal bouquet was about to be thrown, Cheska glanced at Lianne with a mischievious grin. She knew what her friend was thinking and she didn’t like it. The thought of settling down hasn’t crossed her mind yet. Kahit alam niya na kasabihan lang na susunod na ikakasal ang makakasalo ng bulaklak, ayaw niyang sa kanya mapunta iyon. Hindi siya makikipag-agawan. When the bouquet was thrown in the air to their direction, she went rigid. Everything happened so fast and the next thing she knew ay may nakasalo na ng bulaklak. Lianne was relieved but she frowned when she found out that Jenny caught the bouquet. She grew a rankling dislike over the girl and she didn’t know exactly why. She looked at Alden and saw a hint of disappointment in his expression but it was quickly replaced with excitement and joy. When he slipped the garter into Jenny’s right leg and when the crowd cheered ‘higher, higher’ ay game na game naman itong sumunod. Nang kantyawan ng mga tao si Alden para halikan si Jenny, Lianne excused herself and she made her way to the comfort room. After a few minutes, she went back to their table. “Why are you alone? Nasan na si Ryan?” she asked Lara. “Pumunta lang sa restroom” Lara answered. There were couples dancing on the dancefloor in tune with a slow song. Isa na doon sila Alden at Jenny. “Pangalawa na yan” Naguguluhang tumingin siya kay Lara at saka lang niya naintindihan ito. Her eyes were focused on the dancing pair. Lara meant Alden and Jenny have been dancing to their second song. “Look at how obvious that girl flirts with Alden. Well, ang gwapo naman kasi niya kaya lapitin ng babae. Wala ba siyang girlfriend?” “Huh?” Lianne doesn’t know how to answer her. Alden’s status is disclosed to the public and he chose not to talk about it in details. He wanted to keep his relationships private as much as possible. “You know what? Kung wala lang akong boyfriend siguro I will steal him and dance with him too. He need a break from that clingy girl” Lara commented. Tiningnan niya ang dalawang sumasayaw, they were really close. She felt a lil prick inside her chest. It was the same time Alden’s eyes darted to her direction and he caught her staring. She quickly lowered her eyes. When she lifted her gaze again, wala na ang mga ito sa dating pwesto. Her eyes automatically searched for them at nakita niya ang mga ito na papalabas ng pinto. Hindi na niya sinundan pa ng tingin ang dalawa. Why would she even bother? He can go with anyone he wants. Though she felt a lil pity for Madi. She has no idea what her boyfriend was up to.

He clutched his glass tightly as he watch them. Masayang nag-uusap ang mga ito habang nagsasayaw. Before the song ends ay naghiwalay na ang mga ito upang bumalik na sa upuan. He made his way to them. “Lianne..” She seemed surprised. “Can I have this next dance with you?” he held out his hands. He had caught her off guard. Hindi nito inaasahan iyon. Bago pa ito sumagot hinawakan na niya ang kamay nito. Alden nodded at the guy she was with and gave him a tap on the back before he guided Lianne to the dancefloor. “Do you realize I haven’t said yes?” she asked when they stopped in the middle of the dancefloor. He faced her. “I do. But I know you won’t decline. Hindi mo naman ako hahayaang mapahiya” “Oh. You sound so sure” she said with sarcasm. Inilagay niya ang mga kamay ni Lianne sa balikat niya then his hands circled her small waist, drawing her close to him. He felt her body stiffened in his arms. He smiled when he heard the next song playing. “Let’s just enjoy this beautiful song” he suggested cooly. Hindi naman ito tumutol. They started swaying to the music. We’ll do it all Everything On our own. We don’t need Anything Or anyone.. Alden kept his eyes glued to her beautiful face as they move rhythmically to the music. He will never get tired of staring at her. Lianne was avoiding his gaze, sa iba ito nakatingin. I don’t quite know How to say How I feel. Those three words Are said too much They’re not enough. He held her closer to him at narinig niya ang malakas na kabog ng dibdib nito. Did he really affect her that much? Well, she have the same effect on him. Her wonderful scent filled his lungs, intoxicating him and clouding his mind. Kung pwede lang, he would stay like this forever. If I lay here If I just lay here Would you lie with me and just forget the world? He scanned the function room. It irritated him that he was not the only male whose eyes were on Lianne. He couldn’t stop himself from commenting. “That boy really likes you” he whispered. Lianne looked up at him, nakakunot ang noo nito. “Boy? You mean Ryan?” “As a guy, I can tell if another guy is interested with a girl. Don’t lead him on” “I’m not leading him on. I’m just being nice. At isa pa, I doubt we’ll see each other again after this” Lianne muttered. “Trust me, he will get your number” “If he ask for my number, I’ll tell him straight na may boyfriend na ako” Lianne’s eyes strayed to their table, sa kinauupuan ni Ryan then it flew back to him. “Wait” she gestured her right hand in the air. “Ikaw nga dyan you were with another girl the whole time and you disappeared with her to God knows where” she mocked him. He chuckled, “So you were checking on me? Binabantayan mo pala ang bawat kilos ko” “Of course not!” she stopped abruptly from dancing. “Hindi.. Well, kasi we were on the same table.. At saka nakita ko lang kayo na papalabas” mahinang sagot nito. He continued dancing in tune with the rhythm, making Lianne move her feet again. “Nagpatulong lang sa akin si Jenny na kuhanin sa kotse niya yung regalo, that’s it” Alam naman niya na hindi niya kailangang magpaliwanag but he wanted to. He kept the part where Jenny openly flirted with him. Hindi niya rin naman iyon pinatulan. He rejected her without being rude. Sinabi na lang niya na he’s committed to his girl. After that, he went back inside. “I don’t think so. Ang tagal nyong nawala” Lianne said incredulously. Alden broke out in laughter. It humoured him how easily he managed to get the reaction he wanted from her. “What’s funny?” she asked. She was giving him a death glare. “I find it funny na inorasan mo pa ang pagkawala namin” he said amusedly. Lianne looked away na para bang napahiya. “Why would I do that? The nerve” umirap pa ito sa kanya. “I just feel bad about Madi.. Bakit hindi mo nga pala siya kasama?” Hearing Madi’s name, he turned serious. “She couldn’t go” That was the only thing he could say right now. Ayaw niya na sa kanya manggaling na nasa rehab ito because of being addicted to drugs. “Where’s Sam?” “He’s working. Saka may mga inaayos siya because he will be leaving back to Cali soon” May halong lungkot ang boses nito. Maybe she doesn’t want her boyfriend to go back to the states. Ayaw nito na magkahiwalay silang muli. Hindi nga naman madali na magkalayo at hindi magkita. He couldn’t help feel jealous of Sam. “There are relationships that work out despite the distance” he murmured. She fell silent, nakatingin lang ito sa kanya. “It will be fine” he encouraged her eventhough deep inside him ay hindi madali sa kanya. Lianne nibbled on her lower lip drawing his attention to it. That simple act of her made his stomach twist. ‘Damn this woman! She clearly have no idea what she was doing to me’ He was on the verge of kissing her ngunit pinigilan niya lang ang sarili. He moistened his lips which made Lianne stare at it for a few moments. Her eyes went back up to meet his and their gazes locked. He can read confusion there like her mind was having conflicting thoughts. Dali-dali itong bumitiw sa kanya at naglakad na palayo. Alden realized the song has ended, he sighed. But he remained standing there, watching her retreating back.

The celebration went on. There’s a lot of drinking, dancing and partying that will last til midnight. Because the hotel is located beside a beach, sa labas iyon ginanap. Everyone changed into summer dresses or swimming clothes. Alden was right, Ryan did ask for her number but she honestly told him that it was not a good idea because she already has a boyfriend. Maayos naman iyong tinanggap ni Ryan at nagpaalam na ito sa kanya. He had to leave early because his flight was scheduled tonight. Lianne was with Lara and a couple of girls they met at the wedding. She couldn’t decline the drinks that they gave her dahil ayaw naman niyang ma-out of place o masabihan na kill joy but she set her limitations. She was still checked-in sa hotel at bukas pa naman ang flight niya pabalik ng Manila so she can enjoy the night. Cheska joined them pero paalis alis din ito para mag-entertain ng iba pang guests. She saw Alden and Jenny with another group, dancing, drinking and enjoying the party. He was ignoring her probably because she left him earlier without a word. She had to walk away because his nearness and presence was affecting her. And it was not a good thing. It couldn’t be. At around ten, Cheska and Drew had to leave the party, it had been a long day for both of them. They will be leaving the next morning to Thailand for their honeymoon. After a few glasses of drinks, she started feeling a bit buzzed kaya nagpaalam na siya kila Lara. She checked her watch, the clock says it’s fifteen minutes before eleven. But she doesn’t feel like going to bed, hindi pa naman kasi siya inaantok. She decided to take a walk on the beach, she needed a break. She found a secluded spot far enough from the noise and sight of the crowd at the party. There was a lamp post that lits up the place. Lianne sat down on the sand, adjusting her gray summer dress. She took off her sandals to feel the soft and fine white sand beneath her feet. The sea was now dark and turbulent as the waves of water crashed along the shore, sending up sprays of white foam on the sand. The water reflects the night sky filled with bright and sparkling stars. The view was mesmerizing. She can still hear the faint sound of music coming from the party. A cold breeze brushed past against her cheek and it felt good even in her haltered, backless dress. She closed her eyes, listening to the constant flapping of the waves. It felt comforting. Lianne opened her eyes upon hearing footsteps. “At last, I finally found you” Her heartbeat accelerated, it was Alden. He was carrying a bottle of beer, he seemed drunk because he was stumbling with his balance. He slumped down next to her. “Mind if I join you?” She rolled her eyes. “As if I have a choice? Nakaupo ka na nga eh” Alden chuckled, “You know your sarcasm has always been appealing to me” Lianne shook her head, “I think you’ve had enough of beer” she commented. “No. I’m not drunk. Actually kayang kaya ko pa” he almost slurred the words then he swallowed a few gulps of beer. “Alam mo lasing ka na. Give me that bottle” she said in an unbreakable tone. “Okay. As you wish honey” he grinned at her at saka ibinigay sa kanya ang bote. Ibinuhos niya sa buhangin ang natitirang laman nito. Her heart skipped a beat when she heard him call her honey. Now she was sure that this guy is drunk. “I’ve never been to this part, ang ganda pala dito” Alden said conversationally. “Why are you alone? Escaping the noise of the party? Well I have to admit I am glad na dinispatsa mo na yung Ryan na yon. Obvious naman na nagpapa-cute siya sa’yo” “He had to leave early” she answered shortly. “Good for him” he said in a voice barely audible, almost a whisper. She gazed at the night sky. Alden did the same, he looked up. “You haven’t changed. You love looking at the stars” he paused for awhile and pointed his index finger up. “the polaris, shining brightly as ever. It’s reminding me of the past. I remember we made a promise under these stars” Lianne kept her mouth shut. Hinayaan niya lang ito na magsalita. “Do you ever wish you had another chance to do it all over again with a fresh start?” Lianne’s heart made a loud thud. What was he trying to say? She reminded herself that he was drunk, he was probably just blabbering words out of his intoxicated mind. “I am such an idiot for letting something great just slip away” From the corner of her eyes she saw him hit his head twice with his hand. She can tell that he was trying to earn a response from her but she remained silent. “I missed doing this.. I missed everything.. I missed us” Alden murmured. When she looked at him ay nakatitig ito sa kanya. His face was tormented. “Alden you’re drunk, mabuti pa siguro magpahinga ka na” she tried to stand up but he caught her arm, pinigilan siya nito. “I maybe drunk but my thoughts are sober” madiin na sabi nito. “Lianne, you have no idea how painful it was for me the night I lose you. Parang in a blink of an eye bigla na lang nagunaw ang mundo ko. Until now I still regretted not doing all I can to get you back” Lianne stared at him, trying to comprehend each word he said. Tama ba ang narinig niya? “Alden why are you saying these things to me now?” naguguluhang tanong niya. “Coz I don’t wanna keep it anymore. Do you know the feeling when you’re keeping something for too long? The more you repress it, the more it keeps on resisting na parang.. parang sasabog” he elaborated. “Call me crazy or stupid or.. or whatever but I need to let you know how I feel” She faced him. “Para saan pa? Do you think I will believe you after everything that has happened?” “Well, I’ll be damned” he brushed his hand on the strands of his hair. “But I want to let this all out, say what I wanted to say” Umiwas siya ng tingin dito but she remained sitting there, clamping a fistful of sand in her hand. Sige, pagbibigyan niya ito. “Yes, there was a deal. May pustahang nangyari. But it was made out of our teen moments of insanity and my ego. But you already have piqued my interest the day na sinungitan mo ako sa exams at sa library. That same day, I made research to know more about you. Then you rejected me and ignored me which has never happened to me before. And that’s when my crazy friends made that stupid deal, alam nila na wala pang babaeng nang-snob sa akin. Pumayag ako because I have to defend my ego but believe me, you already have my attention. I already like you” mahabang paliwanag nito. Hindi siya umiimik at tahimik lang na nakikinig. Her eyes were focused on the waves repetitively crashing on the shore. “When we became friends and we got to know each other I started liking you even more kaya nawala na sa isipan ko ang pustahan na yon. Niligawan kita because you are special to me, not because of that deal. We started dating and that was when I fell for you” he paused. “Nung gabi na sinagot mo ko, you made me the happiest guy in the world” Lianne sensed joy in his voice. Kahit hindi siya lumingon ay alam niya na nakangiti ito. “I have never been happy in my entire life until the day you became mine. I swore to myself that I will do anything to keep you happy. Those six months were the happiest days of my life” She was weighing everything he said. His words were starting to get into her, breaking her wall of defenses. Nagtatalo ang isipan niya. “You have no idea how much I dread going on each day after we broke up. I felt numb. It was so hard to move on pero kailangan” he paused. “Nung bumalik ka akala ko okay na ko but I was wrong.. Narealize ko na after seven years, hindi nawala ang feeli—” “Enough!” she cut him off and waved her hand in the air. “Tama na. I don’t need to hear all of this” Alden grabbed her shoulders, forcing her to face him. “Dahil natatakot ka? You’re afraid to admit how you feel about me” “Dahil walang patutunguhan ito. Can’t you understand, it’s too late now!” she was half-yelling at him. “It’s never too late. Mahal kita Lianne mula noon hanggang ngayon. I’ve never felt this kind of love with anyone before. Ikaw lang ang kaisa-isang babaeng minahal ko” he said it straight to her. She was looking at his eyes. His confessions were a lot to take in. Masaya siyang malaman na may pagtingin pa rin ito sa kanya but there was still doubt and fear and the fact that he is committed to another girl. “I know you still have feelings for me, you just have to admit it to yourself” muli siyang hinawakan ni Alden. He was anxiously waiting for her answer but she couldn’t respond. Naguguluhan na siya. Without any warning, Alden’s lips crashed down on hers. She was resisting, itinutulak niya ito but he was immovable. His hand was on her nape and the other one on her back, imprisoning and keeping her still. His kiss was demanding and there was so much need in them. Alden’s lips were warm and inviting, asking her to respond. She felt all her defenses crumbled and at that moment, she chose to surrender to what her heart wanted. Lianne eagerly kissed him back with equal passion and urgency. Their lips moved together into the familiar sensation that they both missed. Alden wrapped his arm around her body pulling her closer to him. There was a voice at the back of her mind telling her to stop. Lianne gathered her remaining energy to push him hard at nagawa naman niya. They were both catching their breaths. “This is wrong..” she said through rugged breathing. Alden cupped her face, “You can’t deny you still want me, I felt it in that kiss. Pinipigilan mo lang ang sarili mo” “Dahil hindi dapat. You were cheating on Madi” inalis niya ang mga kamay nito sa pisngi niya. “I’m not cheating on her dahil naghiwalay na kami. We already broke up a month ago” It took a few seconds bago niya naintindihan ang sinabi nito. It all makes sense to her now. Isang malakas na sampal ang ibinigay niya dito. Alden was surprised. Nagtatanong ang mga mata nito sa kanya. “So you were doing this for a reason” galit na sabi niya dito. “I will never be anyone’s rebound.. And I.. most certainly wont be your rebound. Hindi ako papayag na maging panakip-butas mo lang just to get over your ex” “What!?” he asked incredulously. “Or maybe you did this to get me and use me para pagselosin si Madi so she will come running back to you. I’m not too dumb to fall for your lies again Alden” “Ano? Wait.. Wait lang, what made you say that? Nagkakamali ka” he defended. “I heard you calling out her name nung may sakit ka, you were saying sorry to her. Bakit? Because you don’t wanna lose her. Despite your delirious state, siya pa rin ang nasa isipan mo” Alden was dumbfounded but he regained from it, he caught her arms. “Mali ang iniisip mo Lianne. You don’t understand—” “I’m smart enough to know better. I will never allow you to fool me once again” iwinasiwas niya ang kamay para makawala dito at saka siya mabilis na tumayo. Sumunod ding tumayo si Alden, “Sandali, pakinggan mo muna ako” She pointed her finger right into his face, giving him a warning. “I don’t wanna see you so don’t you ever come near me again” After that she turned on her feet and ran away.

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Author’s Note:

Intense scene right there. Lol I know this is a long overdue update and I’m so sorry for keeping you waiting. I just took a break from writing but now I’m back on track. :) Thank you for reading ♥♥

[mystiquemadness]

Written in the Stars -- Chapter 16

Alden helped her get in the car. As soon as she got inside and closed the door, Lianne felt the tension building in the air. She just watched cautiously as he put his seatbelt on. “Ready?” he flashed her a smile. She nodded. Her gaze automatically went up to his face and it focused on his cute dimples which she realized na namiss niya ng sobra. 'Geez Alden, stop smiling!' her mind screamed. It wasn’t helping now that she had decided to stay away from him. She came to that decision after giving thought about her conversation with Sam in her condo a few days ago. Maraming beses na niyang sinubukang iwasan si Alden but it seems like situations or maybe fate always find a way upang paglapitin sila. Alden started the engine and the car roared to life. He stared at her with a roguish grin. “Lianne..” he trailed off. His voice was huskily sexy as he leaned closer. She can smell his woody fragrance, somehow deep and boozy with citrus top note and a lil bit of musk. Alden’s scent was clouding up her mind. “Y-yes?” she scolded herself for stuttering. Her eyes widened as she watch him move closer. She felt a wave of panic but realization dawned on her. Nangyari na ito dati but now she’s not gonna fall for it. Before he could come any closer, Lianne reached for the seatbelt on her right side then with one swift movement she buckled it up and heard a click. “That’s right. Never forget your seatbelt” he leaned backwards and straightened in his seat. He started pulling out of the driveway. The air of tension was so thick that she looked anywhere but him. Lianne fought the urge to jump out of his car and runaway like a crazy person. “So how are you feeling? Dizzy?” Alden asked conversationally. 'Im a bundle of nerves right now' Lianne said mentally. She stole a quick glance at him, “No, just tired. I really want to go home” “Where’s Sam.. your boyfriend?” he queried, his eyes were focused on the road ahead of them. She looked outside the window watching the buildings and houses they pass by. “He’s busy overseeing everything sa taping ng gameshow hanggang ngayon so he couldn’t go” She saw him nod. “So why are you alone? You didn’t bring Madi with you” “Madi and I..” Alden answered too quickly but then he stopped. “She’s away. She’s on a vacation” “Really? Dapat sumama ka, it’s a good time to relax” Lumingon ito sa kanya at agad ding ibinalik ang tingin sa daan, “I have a tight schedule. It is packed for the next three weeks” “I see” The image of him saying sorry to Madi while he was delirious replayed inside her head. Lianne felt hesitant but she continued anyway. “Please don’t think I’m prying into your private lives but I hope kung anuman ang misunderstanding nyo ni Madi sana naayos nyo na” Madi is a friend at parang pamilya na rin kaya kahit papano ay nag-aalala rin siya dito. Alden gripped the steering wheel with ferocity. “Did she talk to you? Nagkwento ba siya sa’yo?” “No, nabanggit lang niya na nagkaroon kayo ng petty misunderstanding, yun lang” she answered. Lianne noticed his sudden change of mood, it seemed like he was deep in thought. Silence reigned in the car. Tumingin na lang siya sa labas ng bintana. The city is still alive even at night time. Business establishments like bars and clubs are packed with people who are out to celebrate on a Friday night. She wished Alden could at least turn on the radio to relieve the eerie silence inside his car. Back then, night drives like this were the ones they enjoy the most. They would roll down their windows to feel the night breeze brushing their hair and face. They would sing along with the songs blaring from the car radio as he drove into the night. Those were fun times which is contrary to the car’s atmosphere at the moment. What they have is a deafening silence and a crushing tension. Everything is so different now. It started to drizzle, blurring the windshield in front of them. She can hear the soft tap of raindrops on the car’s roof like it was symphatizing with their mood. The sound of her phone ringing made her jump in surprise. In the corner of her eyes, she saw Alden glanced at her. Kinuha niya ang cellphone sa loob ng bag. It was her father. “Dad” she answered. There was silence. “Hello dad?” she repeated. She heard some muffled voices talking on the other line. “Dad are you there?” she was starting to feel worried. “Lianne” he answered at last. “I’m here at the hospital, pumunta ka ngayon” Did she just sense panic in his voice? “Why? What’s wrong? May nangyari ba?” Lianne felt dread and uneasiness creeping into her that made her a little sick to her stomach. “It’s your lola..” he stalled. “Bakit? What happened to her?” she was suddenly filled with apprehension. “Just get here as soon as possible” “Dad?” But the line went dead, he cut the call.

'God, please don't let something bad happen' paulit-ulit niyang dinadasal iyon. They were on their way to the hospital. After getting the call, she asked Alden to turn the car around and he immediately obeyed. Different scenarios are now running through her mind. Alden’s hand touched and covered her hand on her lap. Tumingin siya dito. “I know you’re feeling awfully worried and fearful right now but just hang in there, God hears our prayers” humigpit ang hawak nito sa kamay niya. She found solace in that simple gesture of him. She was glad that Alden accompanied her in this difficult time. Lianne nodded at him, “Thank you” she drew strength in his encouraging words. Right after he parked his car, halos patakbo na silang pumasok sa loob. All eyes were on them nang makapasok sila. She almost forgot that Alden is a celebrity at sikat ito. But it’s the least of her worries now. She’s relieved that the people there are nice enough to know that this isn’t the best time to ask for pictures or autograph. Two nurses were coming out when they reached her grandmother’s private room. Nakasalubong din nila na palabas ng kwarto si Cecil, ang isa sa private nurse ng lola niya. There was a mixture of sympathy and sadness in her face when she saw her. She felt like there was a big boulder weighing down her shoulders and her stomach is twisting painfully as she walk inside the room. The first thing she noticed is that there was no more bleeps and blips from the machines. The ventilator and heart monitor apparatus were now off. Lumapit na siya. Tears welled her eyes seeing her lola’s lifeless form. She felt her knees go week but Alden was quick to catch and steady her. Humawak siya sa kamay nito for support. Lumapit ang daddy niya na nakaupo sa sofa sa gilid ng kwarto. They engaged into a tight, comforting embrace. “Her pneumonia worsened and she suffered a congestive heart failure, they tried to revive her pero di na niya kinaya” he explained in a weak tone. Her dad was comforting her while she silently cried, “I already called your tito and tita, they’re on the way” “Sir” They both looked at the nurse standing beside the door. “Kailangan po ng isang representative to sign and make arrangements, dun po sa office” the nurse informed them. “Okay” her dad answered then she turned to her, “I’ll be right back” He gently squeezed and pat her back before he leave. Lianne stood beside the bed. She touched her grandmother’s frail fingers and hand, still warm and soft but lifeless. She remembered how her lola used to read her stories when she was a kid, how she used to hum songs to her, how she took care of her when she was sick, her laughs and her fondness for cleanliness. Her vision blurred with tears as she look at her. She was gone. It almost didn’t seem real, like it was just a bad dream. She felt Alden’s hand on her back and when she looked at him, he didn’t have to say anything because his eyes spoke of concern, empathy and care. Alden pulled her towards him and gave her a tight, reassuring hug. It only took a moment before she clung to him tightly and wept like a little child. Humagulgol siya habang yakap nito, all the pain, anguish, grief, hopelessness and sadness, she let it all out on Alden’s chest. His hand was rubbing her back while she sob uncontrollably. Her tears streamed down her face like a river. “I’m not sure of what to say Lianne but I just wanna let you know that I care, nandito lang ako” Alden whispered in her ear. She broke down and cry harder when she heard what he said but she felt relief knowing may karamay siya at hindi siya nag-iisa sa panahong iyon.

Hinayaan na lang niya na ilabas ni Lianne ang nararamdaman nito. Alden knew there’s little he can do to make things better. Hindi na rin siya nagsalita pa in the fear of saying the wrong thing or making her feel even worse. He knew he couldn’t take away the pain of her loss but he wanted to be there for her to provide the much-needed comfort and support. Hindi pa rin bumibitiw ng yakap sa kanya si Lianne at hindi siya aalis hangga’t kailangan siya nito. He can still hear her sobs, cry and heavy breathing. Her eyes are now puffed or swollen from crying and her nose is reddish when he looked down at her. It pains him to see her like that. “Lianne” Sam came rushing from outside. He seemed surprised to see him there at magkayakap pa sila ng girlfriend nito. Agad na nagtaas ng tingin si Lianne at kumalas ito mula sa pagkakayakap sa kanya. Lumapit si Sam, “I heard about what happened..” “Si lola..” Lianne said in a broken tone. She went to him and hugged him like a child would run to her mom to seek comfort. “Shhh” he hushed her and kissed her temple. “I know, I’m so sorry” She wept in Sam’s arms while he just stood there, watching them. He took a couple of steps back. Now that Sam is here he knew hindi na siya kailangan pa doon. With one last glance at them, he turned and walked out of the room quietly.

Five days passed by quickly and everything was a blur to her. People come and go at the funeral. Some were family, some were close family friends like her ninong Tony, some were friends like Cheska, Arnie, Cherry and some of her college friends. There were acquaintances like her workmates and some were strangers to her but they all offer them endless hugs, a squeeze of hand and good words. She saw Alden twice, he arrived late at night probably after coming from taping. Hindi nito kasama si Madi but he was with Alex and his handler. Sam was with her all throughout the funeral wake. Palagi itong nakasuporta sa kanya, cheering her up and asking her what she needs. Umuwi ang mommy at kuya niya from the states on the third night of the wake. Her mom stayed with her sa condo unit niya while her kuya stayed with their dad. At least they wont be alone for a month. Kanina, as she watch her lola’s coffin being lowered into the cold, hard earth doon lang nagsink-in sa kanya na wala na nga ito. She was gone forever. Nami-miss niya ito ngunit sa kabila noon ay panatag na siya. She didn’t have to suffer anymore. She’s in a better place now. At makakapagpahinga na ito.

Despite her attempts, she couldn’t sleep. It was now a little over eleven at tulog na ang mommy niya while she was still wide awake and restless. She hate nights like this. Lianne already went back to work after a week dahil mas lalo lang siyang made-depress kung wala siyang ginagawa. She busied herself with work and she spent time with her family. It has been almost a month since her lola passed away. Palagi niyang sinasamahan ang daddy niya. She knew it was twice as hard for him than for her dahil ito ang kasama ng lola niya for the past two years. What she was grateful for is that her mom and dad are in good terms. Sa kabila ng mga nangyari they remain friends. They had dinner earlier at their old house, like a normal family. And they intend to do that thrice or even four times a week. They know they needed each other to get through this tough time. She went to the kitchen to get a warm chamomile tea to somehow soothe and calm her. Pabalik na siya sa kwarto niya ng mapansin na hindi nakalock ang pinto sa may balkonahe. She was about to lock it when she saw Alden sitting on a chair in his unit’s balcony. Magkatabi lang ang balkonahe ng unit nila, separated by just a few feet. Lianne never had the chance to personally thank him especially for the support he gave her at the hospital. Hindi niya alam kung bakit bigla na lang itong umalis ng walang paalam. She never got to talk to him after that. Hindi na rin kasi niya ito nakikita probably because they were both busy. She thought this is her chance. She stepped out of her balcony to talk to him. Lianne cleared her throat, “Hi” “Hi” napatayo ito sa kinauupuan. Alden was wearing a white hanes shirt and shorts. “Bakit gising ka pa?” He was also taking in her appearance. She was not sure if she looked presentable enough dahil nakapantulog lang siya. She was wearing a pair of her baby pink pajamas. “I can’t sleep. Then nakita kita dito at naisip ko na di pa pala ako nakakapagpasalamat sa’yo ng personal” He waved his hand in the air, “That’s not really necessary. Nakapagthank you ka na in general so understood na yon” “Yeah but I still want to personally thank you sa pagtulong mo sa akin sa hospital at pakikiramay, for everything you have done, thank you” she said sincerely. “You’re welcome. I was glad to be of help” They just stared at each other for a few seconds probably thinking of what to say. She felt the coolness of the night breeze. “And one more thing” Lianne uttered, recalling something. “Thank you sa mga gifts. That was so kind of you” her lips revealed a shy smile. Alden didn’t respond. He just stared with a blank expression. “Alden, kahit hindi mo sabihin I know they were all from you” For the past three weeks ay nakakatanggap siya ng mga regalo. She found the first two gifts at her doorstep after she came home from work. The first one was a couple of inspirational books and the second gift were CDs of her favorite artists. The third gift was found in her balcony, they were DVDs of funny and feel good movies. Nagkakataon naman na siya ang unang nakakakita at hindi ang mommy niya. Walang nakalagay kung sino ang nagbigay ng mga iyon but there was always a note scribbled: There still are enough reasons to smile. :-) She couldn’t think of anyone else who would do that except Alden. But it just so happened na palaging walang tao sa unit nito whenever she get those gifts that’s why it made her think. Lianne knew it wasn’t Sam. Just to make sure, nung magkausap sila she hinted about the gifts but Sam didn’t have any idea about it. She knew deep inside her that the gifts were from Alden. The handwriting and the idea is too familiar. “Yes, the gifts were from me” he admitted. “I know you’re still grieving so I thought the gifts would somehow make you feel a little better” “I really appreciate them. They helped” she beamed at him. “Salamat” “Don’t mention it” It was one of the main things she admire about Alden. Him being thoughtful and sweet. She have to admit isa iyon sa mga bagay na namimiss niya dito. Ganon din kaya ito ka-thoughtful at sweet kay Madi? She guess so. Natouch siya na kahit magkaibigan na lang sila ay inaalala pa rin nito ang kalagayan niya. But are they really friends? The last time she checked, she promised herself na iiwasan na niya ito. But maybe it doesn’t have to be that way. Most of the times they get along really well. Maybe just like her mom and dad, they can also be friends despite everything that happened.

He was glad that the gifts helped her. Pagkatapos kasi ng libing ng lola nito, he never saw her smile again. She was suffering a severe bereavement at her lola’s death that’s why he wanted to help her even in the simplest way he can. Lianne was silent after a long while. They were both silent that he can hear the mellow song coming from the other unit. She was looking down at the street, mukhang malalim ang iniisip nito. He decided to break the silence. “Wanna drink?” he offered her the other bottle of beer he was drinking. “Or I can get you wine—” “No, thanks” she declined. “Why are you drinking? May problema ba?” she sound worried. “Problema? Wala naman, pampatulog lang” he reasoned out. He couldn’t admit that Lianne was invading his thoughts lately kaya hindi siya makatulog. “What made you say that?” “Kasi nakakapanibago. What happened to the palabiro at makulit na Alden that I know?” they both chuckled. “We all have our moments” he shrugged. “That’s true. But you know you can tell me anything. We’re friends, aren’t we?” 'Unfortunately we are' he didn’t voice it out. The mere thought saddened him. Yes, they were friends but he want more. Alden looked at her, naghihintay ito sa sagot niya. “Yes, of course we are friends” he said, feigning happiness. “But there’s nothing to say, really. Stressed lang ako sa trabaho” Tumango-tango si Lianne, “Or maybe burnt out? You deserve to have a break” “I guess you’re right. I should ask for a month’s vacation” he sighed and looked around. Most of the buildings and houses’ lights were off, but street lights flickered on and off, casting eerie shadows here and there. May mga mangilan-ngilan ding sasakyang dumadaan. When he looked back at Lianne’s direction, she was admiring the night sky. An idea came to mind. “Wait Lianne, I’ll be right back. Just stay there”

Alden quickly disappeared into his unit. She had no idea what he was up to. Ibinalik na lang niya ang atensyon sa kalangitan. It has been quite awhile since the last time she took time to admire the night sky. When she got to San Diego, she tried her best to avoid the memories that reminded her of the hurt and pain. Iniwasan niya talaga na tumingin sa langit tuwing gabi until the night she felt strong enough to see the night sky with a different light. Tonight, the sky was like a dark and endless mantle studded with pulsing diamonds. A dark, wispy cloud eclipsed the crescent moon. For a few shadowy moments, it looked like there was a halo around the cloud. “I got something you might be interested” Alden returned. Kaagad nitong ipinakita ang hawak, it was a telescope. “Wow” Lianne exclaimed. Was it the same telescope they were using a few years back? “And here’s the tripod mount” he added. Lianne depicted excitement in his voice. “You’re still keeping it?” “Yeah, I took care of it. Palagi ko itong ginagamit noon” he was carefully inspecting the telescope then his eyes flew to her. “Although there was a time I almost gave it up. I thought of giving it away but something hold me back” Alden was quiet for a long while that she thought he wasn’t going to continue. His eyes focused on hers, “Naisip ko it’s too precious para ipamigay na lang. Madaming good memories ang telescope na ito” he said it in a voice so low, almost a whisper like he was only talking to himself. She couldn’t describe how his words made her feel. Natutuwa ba siya dahil naiisip pa rin nito ang masasayang alaala nila noon? But it confused her why he had to tell her that in spite of the fact that he knew they were both commited. “Here. Use it” His voice broke her thoughts. “S-sige” she stammered. Because their balconies were only separated by three to four feet distance, iniabot ni Alden ang telescope sa kanya at kinuha naman niya iyon. Sumunod naman nitong iniabot ang tripod mount. Ibinaba niya ang mga iyon sa table. She looked at the telescope closely, running her hands on it. She was excited, matagal na rin since the last time she used one. “You need help setting up and aligning?” he queried. “Yeah, looks like it” she clasped her hands together to make a pleading gesture. “Please?” A grin spread across his face, making his deep dimples prominent. “Sure, madali naman akong kausap eh” he climbed onto his balcony’s railings. “Wait, what do you think you’re doing?” Huminto ito ngunit nakasampa na ang isang paa sa bakal. “Pupunta ako dyan” “What? Dyan ka dadaan? For crying out loud Alden, we’re on the eighth floor!” Lianne exclaimed unbelievably. “Relax, just watch me” he said confidently. Inihakbang na rin nito ang isa pang paa habang nakakapit sa railings. “Alden ano ba? Magpapakamatay ka ba?! Sa pinto ka na lang dumaan!” she was half-screaming. How can he be so irritatingly stubborn while she is almost dying of anxiety? But Alden wasn’t listening. He slowly crossed into the narrow panel made of concrete that was attached into the wall. Patagilid itong naglakad upang makalapit sa balkonahe ng unit niya. “Alden! Are you even listening? I won’t be held liable if something bad happened to you” hindi na siya mapakali as she watch Alden, she grew more agitated and worried. “Stop worrying Lianne. Kayang-kaya ko to” kumapit na ito sa railings ng balkonahe niya. He climbed up and made it to her balcony. “See? That was easy. I made it safe and unscathed” nakatayo na ito sa harap niya. She didn’t realize she was holding her breath for too long. She exhaled and breathe again. She felt her lungs fill with air. “Alden Richards as far as I know, you’re a dramatic actor, not a freaking stuntman or action star wannabe” inirapan niya ito. His rich laughter filled the air. Lianne’s brows furrowed in displeasure. “Okay” Alden held up his hands in surrender. “Wala namang nangyaring masama diba? Let’s just forget it. Tutulungan na kita dito” Lianne could see amusement in his eyes. Nag-aalala lang naman siya para dito. She realized she couldn’t bear seeing him getting hurt. But maybe she was just reacting too much that’s why she just sighed and let it go.

"And it’s done. Okay na" Alden was checking the eyepiece. In less than ten minutes ay naiset-up at nai-align na nito ang telescope. “Thank you” she said sincerely. Agad siyang sumilip sa eyepiece and fiddled with the focus. Lianne watch in amazement the awe-inspiring wonders of the universe as they unfold before her eyes. “Sige I’ll go ahead” nagpaalam na si Alden sa kanya. She looked up at him. “Don’t you wanna join me?” “I thought you wanted to do it alone” A smile formed her lips, “Alam mo, it is best to share the viewing enjoyment with a friend” A look of longing crossed Alden’s face then after a few moments napalitan iyon ng ngiti. “I would love to” lumapit na rin ito sa telescope. She just replied with a smile. They get on with their business. Every so often his eyes would stray or linger on hers. Then their bodies or hands would accidentally touch sending shivers down her spine. The thrill of viewing distant galaxies, brilliant star clusters and lunar features, in addition with Alden’s presence, Lianne found it nearly indescribable but enjoyable.

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Author’s Note:

Sad chapter, I know. Babawi na lang ako next chap. Sorry for the late update, I was sick for a few days. Thanks for reading. :)