Let Me Love You

CHAPTER 1

THE SOUND of the alam clock meddled in her sleep like a roaring tiger. Rein took the pillow and covered her ears. She was still sleepy. Muli niyang ipinikit ang mga mata ngunit ng maalalang mahalaga ang gagawin niya ngayong araw, kaagad na napatayo siya sa kanyang queen size canopied bed.

Today was her first day of training at Excel Asia, a training center that educates and prepares upcoming call center agents to be fully equipped and qualified for the job. She setup her alarm clock to beep at four o’clock in the morning. Hindi siya sanay na gumising ng maaga but she had to.  She needed to pursue her plan. She needed a job so that she can live independently from her parents.

Kaya kahit tinatamad pang bumangon, pinilit niya ang sarili.  She walked straight to her spacious bathroom to take a bath. It was still very early in the morning and the weather was cold but thanks to her bathtub na merong water heater.

She opened the faucet and watched with lazy eyes as water filled the tub. Katulad ng kanyang nakagawian, she adjusted the water’s temperature into lukewarm, poured her scented liquid soap and used her arm to stir the water. Bubbles started to form and filled the tub.

She removed her silky sleeping gown and slowly dipped herself in the bathtub. The water felt good. Like a therapy, it refreshed her body. She closed her eyes and suddenly felt sleepy. So she opened her eyes and abruptly cleaned her body, shampooed her hair and rinsed herself. She stood up, pulled a towel in the rack and wrapped it all over her body.

She walked to her built in closet which was adjacent to the bathroom. She surveyed her clothes. Isang maong pants at puting blouse ang napili niyang isuot para sa araw na iyon. Nagbihis siya at pagkatapos ay humarap sa kanyang vanity dresser. Habang nag-aayos ng mukha, she can’t help but felt excited at sa wakas ay magkakaroon na rin siya ng trabaho. Sa loob ng limang taon pagkatapos niyang mag-graduate sa college, wala na siyang ginawa kundi ang magpahinga, manatili sa kanilang mansion, o mamasyal kasama ng kanyang mga magulang.

When she was done, she took her black LV bag, put in her personal things, kikay kit and wallet. Pagkatapos ay tahimik na lumabas siya sa kanyang silid. Alas singko pasado pa lamang ng umaga ngunit kailangan niyang umalis ng maaga at ang plano niya ay magcommute. She will not bring her car. She will ride in a bus to Buendia, then sasakay ng jeep papuntang Pasong Tamo Extension. Ilang beses siyang naligaw ng pumunta siya sa Excel Asia para sa kanyang interview. May dala pa nga siyang sasakyan noon. So she expected that she will have hours of travel time para makarating sa Excel Asia. Alas otso ng umaga magsisimula ang kanilang training.

Hindi alam ng kanyang mga magulang ang appointment niya ngayong araw. She knew her parents will not approve of her plan. Ang gusto ng mga ito ay pamahalaan niya ang kanilang kumpanya which she declined. At tiyak na magwawala ang mga ito kapag sinabi niyang gusto na niyang bumukod. She sighed softly.

She sneaked out of their mansion. Wala pang gising ng mga sandaling iyon even the maids. They usually woke up around six o’clock in the morning. Mabilis siyang nakalabas ng kanilang mansion at naglakad palabas ng Ayala Alabang Village.

SHE GLANCED at her wristwatch again. It was thirty-minutes past two o’clock in the afternoon. She heaved a sigh and a sullen look shadowed on her face. Her forehead crumpled.

She was already late for an hour and a half in her Language Proficiency Training. Peak hours kasi sa Makati ng mga oras na iyon. At sobrang traffic sa daan. Ni hindi na nga niya naubos ang kanyang pananghalian para lamang makabalik ng maaga sa Excel Asia. But still she had been caught up in a heavy traffic.

Her heartbeat raced in anticipation as she saw in her vision the angry face of their trainer. She might be scolded for coming late in the class. Naiimagine na niya ang magiging reaksiyon ni Deej, ang kanilang mestisuhing trainer. He seemed to have a smiling face. At hindi niya alam kung ang smiling face pa rin na iyon ang makikita niya mamaya. She mostly guessed it would be not.

Hindi siya sanay na magcommute at hindi niya naestimate ang oras ng biyahe na kanyang magugugol. They were given one hour and a half lunch break. The morning session was already over. She was dead hungry and she wanted to eat a decent lunch. She was not able to eat her breakfast as she was excited to attend her first day of training for English Language Proficiency and Call Center Basics at Excel Asia. She thought she had ample time to eat lunch in her favorite Greenbelt restaurant and that she can return to Excel Asia on time.

It turned out she was dead wrong. It took her almost an hour to arrive at her destination. And she consumed another hour going back to Excel Asia. Right now she felt an indiscernible rope in her neck, slightly choking her already unstable breathing.

Matatagpuan sa Pasong Tamo Extension ang Excel Asia at nasa vicinity pa rin iyon ng Makati. Kaya wala sa hinagap niya na matatagalan siyang makarating sa Greenbelt which was nasa Makati pa rin. Ipinasya niyang magjeep na lamang instead na magtaxi upang sanayin ang sarili sa pagko-commute. She needed to start he fervent plan, which was to live independently on her own, spending within her own means. Ngunit hindi niya inaasahan na napakatraffic pala ng mga oras na iyon.

Nasanay siyang inihahatid ng kanilang driver o di kaya ipinagmamaneho ng mga magulang. At hindi pa niya naranasang matraffic ng napakahabang oras sa daan. If she had known this would happen, she would have taken a cab, though it would be against her plan to live a humble life. Paminsan-minsan, hindi puro pagtitipid ang dapat niyang isipin. She should be smart all the time.

Ngayon ay puno ng agam-agam ang kanyang dibdib at sobrang late na siya sa kanyang training. She had no more face to show to Deej. It was the first day of their training and she already had a dire attendance record. She shook her head. She was really upset of herself. This act was so unprofessional. It really was.

“Para po.” Umakma na siyang bababa sa jeep kahit hindi pa tuluyang tumigil ang sasakyan. She was already in the Pasong Tamo Extension. She saw a body of a man who was about to ride in the jeepney sa pagtaas niya ng paningin, his body jamming her way.

“Excuse me.” She barely managed to open her mouth. Patuloy siya sa pagbaba sa jeep at hindi man lang pinagtuunan ng pansin ang mukha ng lalaki. She was in a hurry at wala na siyang panahong pagtuunan ng pansin ang kanyang paligid. Her nose snuffled a manly scent but she deliberately ignored it. Sa malalaki at nagmamadaling mga hakbang, lumapit siya sa nakahilerang mga jeep papasok ng Pasong Tamo Extension.

“Wow, sexy!”

Her ears clearly confined the compliment. She noticed the sexy baritone voice. She felt a sudden chill. But she was too occupied that she opted not to glance back at the person who said that compliment. Nagmamadali siyang makatawid ng kalsada upang makasakay sa jeep na papasok ng Pasong Tamo Extension.

There was no other thing in her mind than to beat the time so she can return to Excel Asia in as fast as she can. She continued walking in fast tempo; kunot ang kanyang noo at naniningkit ang mga mata. Mainit ang sikat ng araw dahil tanghaling tapat at nararamdaman niya ang masakit na tama ng araw sa kanyang mukha.

Gusto niyang mapangiwi. Hindi pa naman siya sanay na magbilad sa init ng araw. Buti na lamang at naglagay siya ng sunblock kanina. She might be feeling uncomfortable but at least, her skin was protected. Inihanda na niya ang sariling makaranas ng hirap sa una pa lamang na plinano niyang magsarili. This was just the beginning. More challenges will surely come her way. And she needed to be prepared for the worst.

“Hi Miss.”

This time, nilingon ni Rein ang nagsalita habang patuloy sa paglalakad. Nadagdagan ang kunot sa kanyang noo nang makita ang lalaking nakaagapay sa kanyang mabilis na paglalakad. She stared straight into his clear, black eyes and for a fleeting moment she felt her heart halted a beat.  Strange, she thought. Kaagad na binawi niya ang paningin, her knees shakening.

God, but the man who was walking beside her was precariously handsome ahead of her wildest imaginings. Saglit lang niyang tiningnan ang lalaki but her eyes vividly captured his fine features. She must have a very photographic memory. But a handsome face needed not to have a photographic memory to be remembered afterall.

He had thick but orderly, delineated brows. His clear black eyes had sexy glints. His upturned nose was a masterpiece of a great sculptor. It stood like a perfect cone volcano in the center of his face. His well-shaped lips had silky sensuality. A thin mustache defined his chin.

His handsomeness was a mixture of Earth and Spice. It was rockingly gorgeous, a handsome face that can drew women like metal to magnet. And his devilish grin was enough to daze her wits. Hindi rin nakaligtas sa kanya ang suot ng lalaki. He looked like a punk; faded, torn jeans, loose shirt and dusty rubber shoes.

“Hi Miss. I’m Troy. Gusto ko sanang makipagkilala sa iyo.” Patuloy ito sa pag-agapay sa kanya.

Muli niyang pinagtuunan ng pansin ang lalaki. When her eyes convened with his, he gave her a flirty wink. She felt Cupid’s bow knocked her heart bullseye. Again, her heartbeat faltered. Kaagad na itinuon ni Rein sa ibang direksiyon ang kanyang paningin. She sucked an ample supply of oxygen. She needed oxygen in her blood. Mistulang hinugot ng lalaki ang lahat ng hangin sa kanyang baga sa ginawa nitong pagkindat.

God, but this man was a hell of a flirt! Biglang bumagal ang kanyang paglalakad. Pakiramdam ng dalaga ay nadagdagan ang panginginig ng kanyang mga tuhod. She felt so mushy she can barely stand! Blame this flirty man who could turn her life upside down in a single wink. And she spurned the thought.

Isang tipid na ngiti ang pinakawalan niya while not looking at his eyes. Ang busina ng sasakyang nasa kanyang harapan ang nakapagpanumbalik sa kanyang huwisyo. Saka lamang niya narealize na nasa gitna pala sila ng daan. Mabilis na tumabi siya sa daan at muling binilisan ang paglalakad. Patay-malisya na hindi niya tinapunan ng pansin ang lalaking nakasunod pa rin sa kanya.

“Pasong Tamo Extension, Gate 3!” Malakas na sigaw ng dispatcher na tumatawag ng pasahero para sa nakatukang jeep.

Kaagad na sumakay sa jeep si Rein. Akma na siyang uupo ng makitang sumakay din sa jeep ang lalaki. Muli, nagtama ang kanilang mga mata. She saw a streak of plead in those pair of black eyes. Hanggang dito ba naman sa jeep ay sinusundan siya ng lalaking ito?

He sat beside her. Silently, she took a deep breath. She slowly closed her eyes to loosen up herself yet she could not. Their shoulders skirmished. At animo’y may dumaloy na kuryente sa himaymay ng kanyang laman sa simpleng pagkakadikit na iyon ng kanilang mga balat. At bakit halos naririnig na yata niya ang malakas na kabog ng kanyang dibdib?

She gazed at him, unknowingly with sheepish eyes. He released a sweet smile. At muli, pakiramdam ni Rein ay nagkaroon siya ng stroke at nagmalfunction ang tibok ng kanyang puso. Goodness, but this man was an expert flirt! And he was really good looking!  Deadly combination, she can’t help but admit it.

Her eyes feasted on his well-endowed handsomeness. She knew she was drawn to him. She can feel the concentrated magnetism between her and this man. She silently purred like a scared kitten. She knew the feeling was eerie. And she felt so uneasy though her body stiffened.

Relax Rein… Lihim na pinagalitan niya ang sarili. He was not your type ok. So what if he was handsome. He was the exact opposite of your ideal man. You don’t like rugged and happy-go-lucky person, most a flirt! At kung ano-ano pang discouragement ang sumagi sa kanyang isipan. Ngunit ni hindi man lang niyon napakalma ang nagririgodon niyang damdamin.

Minabuti na lamang niyang wag pansinin ang lalaki. But she was very aware of his overflowing presence. She closed her eyes. Ngunit malinaw na nakikita niya sa kanyang balintataw ang guwapong mukha nito. Exasperated na nagpakawala siya ng isang buntong-hininga.

Kaagad na napuno ng mga pasahero ang jeep. Na lubos niyang ipinagpasalamat. Kailangang makabalik siya sa Excel Asia sa lalong madaling panahon. Mahalaga sa kanya ang bawat minutong lumilipas. More than one hour na siyang late.

Kasalukuyan siyang nagti-training sa Excel Asia para makapasok sa People Support. Excel Asia served as the training ground for those who wanted to work in major Call Center Companies in Makati. It was a training center where applicants will be trained about English Communication Skills and Call Center Basics for two weeks.

Kailangan niya ng trabaho lalo na sa mga oras na ito at nagpasya na siyang aalis na sa poder ng mga magulang kapag may stable na siyang source of income. She wanted to become independent and run her life the way she wanted it to be. Nothing can satisfy her fancy more than independence at the moment.

Pinara niya ang jeep ng matapat na sa harapan ng Jannov Building. Nasa likuran niyon ang building ng Excel Asia. Mabilis na bumaba ng jeep at ni hindi man lang tinapunan ng pansin ang katabi. She was about to cross the road ng makita sa sulok ng kanyang mga mata na bumaba rin ang lalaki. At talagang sinusundan siya nito! Conscious na tumawid siya ng daan. Papasok na siya sa gate ng marinig itong nagsalita.

“Hi Miss. I’m Troy. Miyembro ako ng banda. I’m a drummer. Gusto ko lang makilala ka kasi gusto sana kitang imbitahin sa gig namin.” His voice was rigid and sturdy and he conveyed his short speech smoothly. There was confidence in his voice at sa bawat katagang binitiwan nito, nandoon ang bahid ng authority at determinasyon.

“Makulit ka rin ano?” Mataray na tinigasan niya ang boses bilang pangontra sa sobrang kilig na kanyang nararamdaman ng mga sandaling iyon.

“Honestly, yes.” He said with certainty at hinuli ang kanyang paningin. Naglakbay sa mukha ng dalaga ang mga mata nito. Then he gave her his sweetest smile, flashing a perfect set of uniform, white teeth.

Rein blinked her eyes for several times. Nabatubalani ba siya sa kaguwapuhan ng lalaking ito? She dropped her gaze. Natataranta ata siya at pakiramdam niya’y malulusaw siya sa klase ng titig ng lalaki. And she suddenly realized he had his way to get what he wanted. He surely had the drop dead gorgeous looks that he can use for his own benefit.

“Please?” He added more charm to his pleading voice.

“Okay.” She moved up her hand as a sign of defeat. “Just get my number. I’m already late for my training.” Patuloy siya sa paglalakad. But she knew she was already submitting to the irresistible charms of this man. She knew she was not immune to his likes.

Hinugot nito ang cellphone sa bulsa. She saw a sleek and stylish cellphone, a latest model of Nokia. Hindi nakaligtas sa obserbasyon ni Rein iyon. So this punk must have something in his pocket. He must be down to earth enough to ride in a jeepney. The thought silently tickled her heart.

“What’s your number then?” He smirked.

“Okay I’ll type it.” She softly said while her eyes captured the sensual movement of his lips. She felt a different kind of chill. It emanated from the center of her being and transported to all parts of her human flesh.

Kaagad na iniabot sa kanya ng lalaki ang cellphone nito. He intentionally enveloped her palm with his ng abutin niya ang cellphone nito. Her fingers shakened. Blood suddenly rose to her cheeks. She knew she was blushing. Hindi dahil sa masakit na sikat ng araw kundi sa epekto ng pagkakadikit ng kanilang mga balat. It was just a mere touch. But it wrecked her senses uncontrollably. And his flirty and can do attitude added more to her uneasiness. Ngayon pa lang yata siya nakaengkwentro ng lalaking hayagan ang paglalandi.

Kaagad na ibinalik ni Rein ang cellphone sa lalaki matapos niyang maitype ang kanyang cellphone number. But she was careful enough not to touch his flesh again. She knew it was the wisest thing to do. Akma na siyang tatalikod at ipagpatuloy ang paglalakad ng marinig ang boses nito.

“And your name is?”

“Rein.” She gave him a last quick glance at ipinagpatuloy ang mabilis na paglalakad. Kailangan na niyang magmadali. And she needed to reside away from him.

“Nice meeting you Rein.”

Malinaw na narinig niya ang sinabing iyon ng lalaki pero hindi na niya ito nilingon. Ngunit ramdam na ramdam niya ang titig nito sa kanyang likuran. Saka pa lamang nakahinga ng maluwag ang dalaga ng makapasok na sa building ng Excel Asia. Isa iyong dalawang palapag na gusali na nasa loob ng Jannov Compound.

Sa halip na magmadali siyang pumasok sa kanilang training room, sandali siyang tumigil at sumandal sa dahon ng pinto. Napahawak siya sa dibdib na sa pakiramdam niya ay hindi na yata normal ng mga sandaling iyon.

Darn, but she just met the flirtiest man in the world! And not to mention the most attractive of them all. She shook her head in skepticism. Ganoon na ba siya kaganda para susundan ng isang guwapong lalaki? Sukat doon ay napangiti ang dalaga. Now she was beginning to think that she was indeed beautiful. Na hindi lamang siya binobola ng mga taong malalapit sa kanya kapag pinupuri siyang maganda ng mga ito.

HININTAY muna ni Troy na mawala sa paningin niya ang babae bago nilisan ang lugar na iyon. Isang matamis na ngiti ang nakapagkit sa mga labi niya. Muling binasa sa screen ng cellphone ang tinype na number ng dalaga.

Rein… The monosyllabic word tasted sweet in his tongue. Troy murmured the name again and the feeling of exhilaration intensified. Oh well, she had a unique and cute name. So just like herself. She looked so sweet and pretty. He released a soft sigh. Inilibot niya ang paningin sa paligid at tinandaan ang bawat detalye na nakikita ng kanyang mga mata.

Well, he won’t forget this place. Dito niya nakita ang pinakamagandang babaeng kumuha sa atensiyon niya kanina. He was mesmerized by her beauty to the point na nagmukha siyang asong susunod-sunod sa dalaga. At kahit ito ang unang pagkakataong sinundan niya ang isang babae, he will never regret it.

He was used to being chased and courted. But he liked the new experience. For the first time, he felt his testosterone level at the highest summit. He felt so male. And he was starting to love the chasing game.  It was the first time that he insisted to introduce himself to a woman. But the feeling was surprisingly good. And it delighted him to think that he had the pretty woman’s cellphone number.

She had the cutest tsinita eyes he had ever laid eyes upon with. Her smooth white skin glowed like diamonds under the heat of the sun. At iyon ang unang nakahuli ng atensiyon ng binata kanina. Napakaputi ng babaeng nakita niyang pababa sa jeep na nasa di kalayuan mula sa kanyang kinatatayuan.

Her skin was so white and smooth. Animo walang bahid na dumi. She looked so enticingly clean. He can kiss her all over. He smiled naughtily at the thought.  Lumikot ang imahinasyon niya. She was only wearing a simple outfit, white blouse and blue jeans ngunit litaw na litaw ang angkin nitong kagandahan. Her long hair added more to her sultry attractiveness. And she had a tapered waistline, full, rounded butt and lengthy legs.

Whew! She was indeed a package. And he was desperate to have her.

Akma niyang isisilid sa bulsa ang hawak na cellphone ng tumunog ang aparatu. Pagkatapos mabasa sa screen ng cp kung sino ang tumatawag, salubong ang mga kilay na sinagot niya ang nasa kabilang linya.

“Where the hell have you done Brent. Where’s my car?” His voice was hard and rough. Muntik na siyang nagpanic kanina ng matuklasang nawawala sa parking lot ang kanyang kotse. He was about to report it ng matanggap ang text ni Brent. Informing him that he used his car, without his permission of course!

“Easy big bro,” kampante ang boses ng nasa kabilang linya. “Sandali ko lang namang hihiramin ang sasakyan mo e. Blame Papa. Hindi niya ako binilhan ng bagong kotse.”

“Dahil binangga mo na naman ang bagong-bagong kotse mo.” Halos ay pasigaw na turan ni Troy. “At pati ako ay dinadamay mo sa kalokohan mo. You stole my car from the parking lot while I’m having lunch. At heto ako ngayon, no choice but to ride in a jeep!”

It was a lie. Naghihintay siya kanina ng mapaparang taxi, when he caught a glimpse of a pretty woman na nasa front seat ng jeep. At ng tumigil ang jeep sa tabi niya, he decided na sumakay na lamang ng jeep na iyon. Kahit pa hindi niya alam kung ano ang ruta ng pampasaherong sasakyan. He was about to ride in it ng bumaba ang babae. Hindi natuloy ang pagsakay niya ng jeep at sa halip sinundan ang bumabang babae.

“You should thank me big bro. Kung hindi dahil sa akin ay hindi mo mararanasang sumakay ng jeep.” Tumawa pa ito ng nakakaloko. Ni hindi man lamang natinag sa galit na boses ni Troy. “It is a milestone in your very sheltered life. And besides, may taxi naman. Bakit ka sumakay ng jeep? You’re giving yourself a hard time brother. Or shall I say, you’re giving yourself enough reason to kill me for what I did.”

“You asshole!” He shouted.

“Magkita na lang tayo mamaya sa bahay, okay. I’ll be ready to face your fury. Sorry but I have to borrow your car. Bye big bro.” Iyon lang at pinutol na nito ang tawag.

“Damn!” Napasuklay sa buhok si Troy. Naghahasik na naman ng lagim ang kanyang kapatid. At this time, siya ang nabiktima nito. Ngunit gusto niyang pasalamatan ang kapatid sa ginawa nito. Dahil doon nakilala at nakatagpo niya si Rein; a one unforgettable experience. Napailing na lamang si Troy sa mga pangyayari.

Muli nitong tinapunan ng pansin ang direksiyon kung saan nawala sa paningin niya si Rein kanina. At ang galit na nararamdaman niya para sa kapatid ay unti-unting humupa at the thought of her. Napangiti pa siya bago lumakad papunta sa main road at pinara ang paparating na taxi.

“HEY Big Bro, your car’s back in the garage.” Pabalewalang pasalampak na umupo sa malambot na couch si Brent. Animo hindi ito aware sa pormal na mukha ng kapatid habang nakatitig dito, arms crossed on his chest.

“How did you manage to steal my car Brent?” Pormal na tanong ni Troy ngunit wala iyong kalakip na galit.

“I had my own way of securing a duplicate key.” Sandaling minasdan ni Brent ang kapatid. Somehow ay hindi ito makapaniwala sa nakikitang calmness sa mukha ni Troy. He was expecting his big brother to be extra furious sa ginawa nito. He already prepared himself for any type of violence.

“And where’s the duplicate key?” Matatag ngunit madiing wika ni Troy.

“Here…” Initsa ni Brent sa kapatid ang duplicate key ng kotse. He was still in awe. Ang inaasahan nito ay magwawala si Troy oras na magkaharap sila. At hindi nito inaasahan na maging kalmante ang nakakatandang kapatid.

Pagkatapos saluhin ang susi ay tahimik na tumalikod si Troy.

“Hey! Aren’t you angry?” Di makapaniwalang turan ni Brent

Sandaling nilingon ni Troy ang kapatid.  “Just don’t do it again or else I’ll kill you.” Isang malamig na titig ang iginawad niya sa kapatid bago ipinagpatuloy ang paglalakad. But if that’s the way that he can see Rein again, he would gladly allow his brother to steal his car for countless times. Sukat doon, napangiti ang binata.

He closed his eyes at malinaw pa niyang nakikita ang magandang mukha ng babae; that unforgettable pretty chinita face. And he swore to himself na hindi iyon ang una at magiging huling pagkakataong makikita niya ang dalaga.

CHAPTER 2

“HI PA.” Humalik siya sa pisngi ng ama. Seryoso ang mukha nito pero binalewala niya iyon. Alas nuwebe ng gabi na siya nakarating sa kanilang tahanan. At alam niyang kanina pa siya tinatawagan ng ama subalit ini-off niya ang cellphone buong araw.

“Where have you been?”

“Naglibot lang po sa Makati.” Simpleng sagot niya. Hindi pa ito ang tamang panahon upang magsabi siya sa mga magulang na gusto na niyang magtrabaho at magbukod ng tirahan.  She was already twenty-five ngunit pakiramdam niya ay para pa rin siyang teenager na nakadepende sa mga magulang. Wala siyang sariling source of income hanggang ngayon. Galing sa mga magulang ang lahat ng perang ginagastos niya. Sa malaon at sa madali, hindi na niya gagamitin ang credit cards at atm na ibinigay ng mga magulang para sa kanya.

Hindi na siya natutuwa sa tinatakbo ng buhay niya. She felt so empty and useless. Kung dati, masaya siya habang nilulustay ang pera ng mga magulang, ngayon, she felt like a useless rich kid. Ngayon niya napagtantong wala siyang kuwenta kung hindi siya naging anak ng mga magulang niya.

She was born with a silver spoon in her mouth. She even had her own yaya until she reached eighteen. Her parents were busy managing their big clothing line business kaya palagi siyang naiiwan sa bahay kasama ang yaya at mga katulong. But when she turned twenty, nakahanap ng mapagkakatiwalaang tao ang parents niya na mamahala sa kanilang negosyo. Her family had a big clothing line enterprise business. Mahigit dalawampu ang bilang ng kanilang boutique na nagkalat sa iba’t-ibang bahagi ng Pilipinas. Their business was almost a household name.

Then her parents became fulltime parents to her. Noong una ay masayang-masaya siya. Sa wakas, makakasama na rin niya palagi ang mga magulang. They can spend quality time together. Binawi ng mga ito ang pagkukulang sa kanya. Ngunit sa huli ay nagsawa din siya. Since she was an only child, nakatuon sa kanya ang lahat ng atensiyon ng mga magulang. Para siyang bata na pinapamper ng mga ito. Her daily activities were all monitored. At halos mga magulang na niya ang nagpatakbo ng buhay niya.

And then she woke up one day tired and weary of her life. Her bestfriend Cindy had already carved a name in the modelling industry. She had successfully did it in her own courage. Cindy was very independent and strong-willed woman. And she envied her. Lalo na kapag nagkukuwento ito how fulfilling her life was doing things with her own. Na nakakarating ito sa kung saan-saang panig ng mundo at nagagawa ang lahat ng gusto. And most of all, Cindy had no parents who control her life. She was free like a bird.

Hindi katulad niya. Sa tuwina mga magulang niya ang kasama sa pamamasyal, panonood ng sine o concert, at sa pagsashopping. Her world evolved with her parents. She never had a normal life. And she’s feeling the pressure of herself getting into maturity the past few months.

And she desired to become independent. Have her own source of income and live life the way she wanted it to be. Walang mga magulang na magdidikta kung ano ang dapat niyang gawin o hindi. To become independent, most of all she needed a job. She did not want to work in their company no matter what position it was. Her parents will still have influence over her in case. She started to do job hunting beyond the knowledge of her parents. But she found out it was very difficult to land a job especially she had no work experience at the age of twenty-five.

Until she discovered the lucrative world of Call Centers. Madaling makapasok sa nasabing trabaho provided that she had excellent English Communication skills. And Call Center Industry had higher salary compare to other jobs. She wanted to be a call center agent. That’s why she started to look for training centers. And she found Excel Asia, perfect training ground to hone her English Skills plus she will get recommendation when she applied to the real job. She could almost see sunrise beaming into her promising future.

“At bakit hindi mo ginamit ang kotse mo?”

Pabagsak na umupo sa sofa si Rein. Ang dala-dala niyang Loius Vuitton shoulder bag ay ipinatong niya sa ibabaw ng kanilang glamorosong center table. Gawa iyon sa Narra at salamin. “Sinubukan ko lang pong magcommute Pa. Okay naman pala e. Hindi naman ganoon kahirap.” She stretched her limbs. She was tired but she felt good.

“My goodness Rein! Kaya ko nga binili ang Honda Accord na iyan ay para gamitin mo ng hindi ka mahirapan kung saan ka pumunta.”

“Pa, I’m not a baby anymore, okay?” She raised her face. “Stop treating me like that. Dapat ay masanay na ako to do things with my own. I’m already twenty-five. I have been too sheltered and it’s not giving me good anymore. I want to grow up. I don’t want to be like this forever. I’m not getting any younger.”

“Yeah, you’re not getting any younger.” Matiim na tinitigan ni Bernard ang anak. “And since you brought this issue. I think we need to talk.”

“About what?” Isinandal niya ang likod sa malambot na headrest ng sofa. Medyo nahihilo ata siya sa sobrang traffic kanina ng pauwi siya. Malayo ang Alabang sa Makati at matraffic pa sa Edsa.

“Let’s talk about your future.”

Umunat sa pagkakaupo si Rein. Nakuha ang atensiyon niya sa sinabing iyon ng ama. Ito na ba ang hinihintay niyang pagkakataon na maging independent sa mga ito? Her future goes in line with independence. She looked at her father squarely. Enthusiasm mirrored in her face.

“About your marriage.”

“What?!” Marahas na tiningala ni Rein ang ama. Ni wala sa hinagap niya ang narinig. Napatayo mula sa pagkakaupo ang dalaga. She was not expecting such statement from her father. Shock na tumitig siya sa kampanteng mukha ng ama. Her head seemed to grow bigger and was now pulsating with total disbelief.

“Kailangan mo nang makilala ang mapapangasawa mo. Nag-usap na kami ni Pareng Jerry nung isang araw and we think its about time na magkakilala kayo ng panganay na anak niya.”

“Jerry, who?” Para siyang binagsakan ng langit sa narinig.

“My kumpadre. Ang daddy ng mapapangasawa mo. Kararating lang nilang buong mag-anak mula sa US two months ago.”

“NO! Ayoko!” Malakas na tanggi niya ng mag-sink in sa kanyang utak ang gustong palabasin ng ama. Ipapakasal siya nito sa lalaking hindi niya kilala! What was this, arrange marriage? Hindi na uso ang bagay na iyon sa makabagong milenyong kinabibilangan niya.

“Rein, listen to me. This is all for you. Magiging secure ang kinabukasan mo dahil nanggaling sa isang marangyang pamilya ang mapapangasawa mo. Wala ka-“

The usual line for marriage of convenience! She smiled bitterly and threw her father a hard look.

“I said ayoko!” Matigas na tanggi niya. She can’t imagine herself getting married with somebody she didn’t know. Magiging miserable lang ang buhay niya sa piling ng lalaking pinili ng kanyang ama na mapapangasawa. She was sure of that matter. Halos ito na ang nagpatakbo ng kanyang buhay. He chose what course she will take in College. He chose her circle of friends. He approved her clothes first before she can go out of the house. Pati ba naman ang kanyang pag-aasawa ay ito rin ang magtatakda?

“You can’t do this Papa! Your manipulation is too much. Hindi ako makapapayag na pakikialaman mo ang pag-aasawa ko.” She said in shaking voice. Iyon lang at patakbong nilisan niya ang sala.

Dumiretso siya sa kanyang kwarto. Pabagsak na isinara niya ang dahon ng pinto at ini-lock iyon. Hindi siya makakapayag na ipakasal siya ng ama sa kung kani-kaninong lalaking gusto nito.  Tama na ang pagpapatakbo nito sa buhay niya. Siya ang magpapasya kung sino ang pakakasalan niya at hindi ang kanyang ama.

“Rein, buksan mo ang pinto.”

She heard her mother’s concern voice but she deliberately ignored it. Kanina ng patakbo siyang umakyat sa ikalawang palapag ng kanilang bahay kung saan naroroon ang kanyang kuwarto, tiyempo namang palabas sa silid ng mga magulang ang kanyang ina. Dalawang kuwarto lamang ang pagitan ng master bedroom sa kanyang silid. At nakita siya nito. With her moist eyes and shaky appearance.

“Leave me alone!” She screamed her lungs out at pasubsob na ibinagsak ang katawan sa malambot na queen size bed.

“I want to talk to you Rein.” Lalong naragdagan ang pag-aalala sa boses ni Helen.

She harshly took the pillows and covered her ears. She hated her parents at the moment. Pakiramdam niya’y para siyang puppet sa malaking bahay nila. Lahat ng gawin at gusto niya ay utos ng mga magulang. She was an only child. And she hated it. She was a human being, not a puppet for crying out loud!

Patuloy sa pagtawag si Helen ngunit hindi na iyon naririnig ni Rein. Hanggang sa ipinasya na lamang nitong iwanan na lamang ang anak. Sa dulo ng pasilyo ay nakita nito ang asawa. Malalim ang gatla sa noo.

“I broke him the news about her marriage. At hindi niya gusto ang ideyang iyon.” Napabuntong-hininga si Bernard.

Concern na tinapunan ng tingin ni Helen ang pintuan ng silid ni Rein.

SHE had no choice anymore but to leave. She could not stay longer in their house. She needed to save her future. At last, she will be independent. His father’s manipulation about her impendeng marriage was the last straw she can take. Marriage was a sacred matrimony for her. It was her only priviledge. And she will never marry a stranger she had no knowledge about, over her dead body!
Tinapunan niya ng pansin ang kanyang cellphone na nakapatong sa dresser ng muli itong tumunog. Her cellphone had already beeped for about five times but she was not in the mood to check it out. Her conversation with her father three hours ago was still fresh in her mind. It was actually constantly playing again and again like a pirated VCD.

Pero tumayo na rin siya sa kama at lumakad patungo sa dresser. Dinampot ang cellphone at nakita niyang limang unread messages na ang naroroon, just as she expected. She opened the messages uncaringly. The number of the sender was not saved in her phonebook. She scanned the text messages with lazy eyes. All the five messages where sent by one sender. She was forced to read the text messages.

Wer r u?

She cocked her eyebrows. Her gloomy appearance further darkened. Binasa niya ang iba pang mga text messages.

Hi! Hw r u? I’m hir along Roxas Boulevard. Wt r u doing pretty? Pls txt back.
Hi! Ds s troy. Hope u stil rmember me. Waz up? Pls txt back.

Hey, ds s troy. Ung namit mo kanina. Ung drummer. I rli find u vry pretty. I think I’m falling in luv wd u.. Pls txt back.

Tumikwas ang kilay ni Rein ng mabasa ang mga text messages na iyon. Subalit hindi maikakailang kinikilig ang puso niya. So sa malanding lalaking iyon pala nanggaling ang mga text messages niya.  His handsome face pierced her mind and she felt a sudden chill. Kahit wala sa harapan niya ang lalaki, she felt as if his eyes bored to hers, his charms doing wonder in her dormant heart.

Damn, bakit siya nakakaramdam ng ganito para sa lalaki? She threw his image abruptly in her mind at binasa ang huling text nito.

Hi Rein. 8s me Troy. Hope ur doin fine. Do u stil rmember me? Ung makulit na guy na nakilala mo kanina. Pls txt back..

She smiled. He humored her by his callous admission. She can’t help but agree. Yes, he was indeed makulit. Halos lahat ng text ng lalaki ay may ‘Please text back’. She was now smiling widely. Sandaling nakalimutan ang naging pag-uusap nila ng ama at ang kinakaharap na problema.
Sori. D ko npansin ang fon ko. So d ako nkarep kaagad.

Wala siyang maisip na ireply sa binata kaya iyon na lamang ang kanyang si-nend dito.
8s ok. Thnk goodness u replied. So hw r u? wer r u? im hir chilin out n Roxas Boulevard. Can i invite u out?

She looked at the wall clock which hung in the corner of her room. Mag-aalas dose na ng hatinggabi. In an ordinary day, it was too late to go out. But tonight was not one of those ordinary days. Her sight landed on the travelling bag in the foot of the bed. Laman niyon ang mga gamit at damit na dadalhin niya. Ipinasya na niyang umalis sa bahay na ito. At ngayong hatinggabi niya gagawin iyon. Kapag tulog na ang mga magulang at mga katulong. Maglalayas siya at hindi mangyayaring magpapakasal siya sa lalaking gusto ng kanyang ama.
But the travelling bag looked gigantic and burdensome for her plan. It would be difficult for her to carry it while sneaking out of the subdivision. It was a good thing that their house was just a few blocks away from the main gate of Ayala Alabang. She didn’t need to walk farther. She decided not bring her car with her. Though having a car meant convenience but pride prevented her from doing so. Mga importanteng gamit lamang ang kanyang dadalhin.
She opened the closet and searched for a bagpack. Bagpack na lamang ang kanyang gagamitin para hindi siya mahirapan sa pag-alis sa bahay nila. Inabot niya ang itim na bagpack sa pinakasulok-sulukang bahagi ng closet at kinuha sa malaking traveling bag ang ilang importanteng mga gamit. Apat na blouse at tatlong pantalon, mga undies at ilang personal na gamit ang isinilid niya sa bagpack. Bibili na lamang siya ng mga gamit kapag nakahanap na siya ng mauupahan. May naipon na rin siyang pera at hindi niya gagamitin ang tatlong credit cards na meron siya o magwithdraw ng pera sa kanyang bank account.

Pangangatawanan na niya ang paglalayas niyang ito. Bitbit ang bagpack ay maingat na binuksan niya ang pintuan at sumilip sa labas. Silence filled her ears. She did not see anybody in the hallway. Maingat na isinara niya ang pintuan at patingkayad na naglakad. Tulog na yata ang kanyang mga magulang.

Nasa gate na siya ng kanilang bahay ng makarinig ng ingay sa loob ng kabahayan. Mabilis na hinugot niya sa bulsa ang susi at binuksan ang lock ng pantaong gate. Nakahinga siya ng maluwag ng makalabas ng gate na walang nakapansin sa kanya.

Palinga-linga pa siya sa paligid habang naglalakad sa daan. Malapit na siya sa Entrance gate ng subdivision mg muling tumunog ang kanyang cellphone.

Hi. D kna nagreply?

Wait for me. Im coming. Kaagad na nag-reply siya sa text nito.

“Saan po kayo Ma’am?” Magalang na bati sa kanya ng security guard ng makarating siya sa bungad ng gate ng kanilang subdivision.

Isang tipid na ngiti ang itinugon ni Rein.. Kinabahan tuloy siyang bigla. Paano kung tatawagan nito ang kanyang mga magulang at isumbong na lumabas siya ng bahay sa dis oras ng gabi? Subalit hindi siya nagpahalata.

“May bibilhin lang ako sa convenience store diyan sa labas.” Sa ayos niya ay hindi siya mapagkakamalang naglayas. Hindi kalakihan ang dala niyang bagpack.  Kinompress niya sa loob ang kanyang mga gamit upang hindi maging bulky tingnan ang dala niyang bagpack. At nakasuot lamang siya ng walking shorts at simpleng blouse.

“Gusto ninyo tawagan ko po kayo ng taxi Ma’am?” Magalang na suhestiyon nito. Kilala ang kanilang pamilya sa subdivision dahil miyembro ng homeowner’s association ang Daddy niya.
“Thanks!” She smiled sweetly at the guard, trying to divert his attention, and she successfully did. “No need. I can manage.”

Tiyempo namang kalalabas lang niya sa entrance gate ng subdivision ng may dumaang taxi. Kaagad na pinara niya iyon. Saka lamang siya nakahinga ng maluwag ng makapasok na sa loob ng sasakyan.

“Roxas Boulevard po manong.” She told the driver ng kampante ng makaupo sa loob ng sasakyan.
“Naku malayo po yun Ma’am at saka mahal po ang bayad sa toll.”

“Don’t wori manong magbabayad po ako. Babayaran ko ang toll at ang metro ng taxi nyo.” Nginitian niya ang di pa naman katandaang driver.

Napakamot na lamang ito sa ulo at pinatakbo ang sasakyan.

HEY, WER R U NW? PLS TXTBACK.

Ang kulit naman nito. Napailing na lamang si Rein habang binabasa ang txt na iyon ni Troy.
Im alredy hir at Malate. R u stil n Baywalk?

Pagkatapos maisend ang kanyang reply ay pumasok siya sa loob ng Iseya Hotel. Magchecheck-in muna siya ngayong gabi sa hotel na ito. Okay naman ang lugar at ang mahalaga ay mura lamang ang rate ng mga kuwarto. Lumapit siya sa receptionist.

“Good Evening Ma’am.” Magalang na bati ng receptionist.

“Room for one person good for 24 hours.” She told the receptionist. Bukas ay maghahanap na siya ng murang paupahang apartment o kahit room for rent somewhere around Makati.

I’ve bin waiting 4 ages.

Napatingin tuloy sa suot na wristwatch si Rein ng mabasa ang reply na iyon ni Troy. Its almost 1 o’clock in the morning. Halos ay mag-iisang oras na siyang hinihintay ng lalaki. Ngunit sapat lamang ang ginugol niyang oras sa pagbibiyahe. Sa Alabang pa siya nanggaling. At malayo ang Alabang sa Roxas Boulevard.

Papunta na ako diyan sa Baywalk.

Pagkatapos maisend ang kanyang reply sa binata, inabot niya ang susi mula sa receptionist at pagkatapos marinig ang instruction nito, mabilis na umakyat sa ikatatlong palapag ng gusali kung saan naroroon ang kanyang silid..

Inilapag niya ang dalang bag sa kama at kaagad na nagpalit ng damit. Pagkatapos ay kinuha ang maliit na purse kung saan nakalagay ang kanyang make-up paraphernalia at mabilis na nag-ayos ng sarili. Nagpahid siya ng pulbo sa mukha at naglagay ng light na eyeshadow, blush on at lipstick. Pagkatapos suklayin ang kanyang mahabang buhok, sinipat niya ang sarili sa salamin. Pagkatapos lumabas na siya sa kanyang silid at naglakad patungo sa Baywalk.

Naghihintay siya sa reply ni Troy ngunit nakarating na lamang siya sa Baywalk ay wala siyang nareceive na text mula dito. Inilibot niya ang paningin sa maraming taong nandoon sa Baywalk ng mga sandaling iyon.

Nasaan na kaya ang lalaking iyon? She thought. Naghanap siya ng mauupuan at nang makaupo na ay muling tinext ang lalaki.

I’m hir at Baywalk. Wer r u?

Inabala niya ang sarili sa panonood sa mga tao sa paligid pagkatapos maisend ang kanyang text. This was her second time to go here at Baywalk. Ang unang pagkakataon ay noong magcelebrate ng birthday ang kaibigan niyang si Cindy. Nagpasya itong umiba naman ng venue kung saan sila palaging tumatambay. Kadalasan kasi, they met and hang out in Shangrila Plaza. Cindy wanted to have something new in her birthday at outdoor ang dating. Kaya ayun at sa Baywalk sila napadpad.

She was in a deep thought when her cellphone rang. Kaagad na sinagot niya ang natanggap na tawag. “Hello…” Her voice barely came out of her throat.

“Hi!”

Kaagad na lumakas ang kabog ng dibdib ng dalaga. Troy’s voice sounded so full and deep. She suddenly felt nervous. “Hi…” Her voice almost faltered. “Where are you?” She asked out of the blue.

“Sorry for making you wait. Im just here at your back, watching you in a distance. Turn around Sweet.”

She felt her cheeks burned in embarrassment. Sa isiping kanina pa siya pinagmamasdan ng lalaki sa di kalayuan, gusto niyang umalis at magtago. She followed him. She turned around. She saw him beside a coconut tree. He was holding his cellphone on his ear. He flashed a smile that made her heart even wilder.

Pakiramdam ni Rein ay napako siya sa kinatatayuan habang nakatitig lamang sa guwapong mukha ng binata. He looked more handome tonight. He was wearing a checked polo and a black denim. He shaved his thin mustache and his clean handsome face proved to be simply dreadful.

She smiled at him. “You’re unfair. Kanina mo pa pala ako nakita.”

Troy chuckled.  “You look so occupied so I decided not to spoil your thoughts. But you look so lovely tonight, Sweet.”

“Why, thank you!” She answered with sarcasm. She was fully aware of her erratic heartbeat. Kakaiba ang dating sa kanya ng papuri ng lalaki. It flattered her and at the same time, it gave her chills.

He chuckled again. Then he walked toward her.  “So can I take you out for a date tonight?” He was already in front of her. His eyes roved around her face gently. His cellphone was still on.

Rein was momentarily stunned as she looked at his penetrating sexy eyes. She was lost for words. This gorgeous man wanted to date her; she felt like screaming. Damn, but kinikilig ang damdamin niya!

“At saan mo naman ako ide-date?” She answered. They were in front of each othet yet they continue to talk on the phone. She was so thrilled with the new experience.

“What’s your fancy date?” He answered back with a glow in his eyes. “I can take you to the moon if you want to.”

“Really?” Her smile widened.  “I don’t want you to date me on the moon. I want you to date me on Mars.”

“The red planet?” His eyebrows rose sensually. “Oh yeah, since its called red planet, I think it’s a very romantic place wherein we can spread love.” He stared at her face lovingly.

Biglang nanuyo ang lalamunan ni Rein. She knew she was flirting with him but she discovered she can’t ride on his game. Kung binobola lamang siya ng lalaking ito, she will be indeed disheartened. She dropped her gaze pagkatapos ay tumalikod.

“I’m sorry. I was just joking.” Maagap na humingi ng paumanhin ang binata. He ended the phone call at isinilid ang cellphone sa bulsa. Pagkatapos ay iniharap ang dalaga. He held her wrist. “Let’s go.”

Nagtatanong ang kanyang mga mata ng tumitig siya sa lalaki. Ngunit nagpaubaya siyang akayin nito. Dinala siya nito sa parking area kung saan nakahimpil ang magara nitong sasakyan. A brand new Jaguar. Now she was sure that this man was something, else he will not drive a Jaguar.

ABALA  sa pagmamaneho ng sasakyan si Troy ng tumunog ang kanyang cellphone. Rein was at his side. His thoughts were occupied. He was planning his first date with this sweet lady and he was so excited.. He wanted the best for her, he wanted to please her. After a series of thoughts, he decided to bring her to Manila Peninsula Hotel, where they can share a candle-lit dinner.

He was not the usual romantic type but he felt like one right now. She knew Rein was special. She deserved to be treated like a princess.

His cellphone continued to ring and he was forced to answer it.

“Where are you at this point in time Troy? It’s almost dawn. Don’t forget that we have an appointment tomorrow. Nakakahiya kay Pare kapag mukha kang lantang gulay bukas. You need to be in good shape. Papaano ka magugustuhan ni Regine if you look hellish. Go home now and take some sleep.”

His face suddenly darkened. His father was like Hitler. He used to manage his life until now. Nagawa pa siya nitong ipagkasundo sa anak ng kumpare nito. He was already fed up. Ano ang tingin sa kanya ng ama, isang teenager? Hell, but he was already twenty-eight, for crying out loud!

He had given up a lot of things to please his father.  He wanted to be a musician, a drummer specifically. But he wanted him to be a businessman. He gave up his band, to manage their business. He did whatever he said he will do. But it was never enough. He was never pleased of him, never been proud of him. He always fall short of his expectations. And now he realized that he will always be a nobody for his father.

Rebellion started to brew inside of him. He can’t take this anymore. Nakapagpasiya na siya. He wanted out of his father’s manipulations. He will do what he desired. Marami siyang bagay na gustong patunayan sa ama. He will brave the world of music. Sa loob ng maikling panahon ng magbalik sila sa Pilipinas, he was able to organize a band. Tiyempo namang nawalan ng drummer ang isang papasikat ng banda and he gladly filled the part. Now they were preparing for an upcoming album.

He did not care if his father will not approve of his music stint. He surely won’t. Nasa tama na siyang edad upang magpasiya para sa sariling kapakanan niya.

He turned off his cellphone.  He was not in the mood to argue with his Dad. He was with Rein, and he did not want to spoil the night. Hindi niya namalayang itinigil niya ang sasakyan sa isang tabi. His eyes full of contempt.

“May problema ba?” Rein bravely asked. She can tell by the looks of it that he was problematic. His mood suddenly changed after the phone call.

Napahugot ng malalim na buntong-hininga si Troy. “Yes,” he confessed. He was trying to compose himself yet he can’t. Gusto niyang pakawalan ang hinanakit niya sa ama.

Rein swallowed the lump in her throat. She felt sorry for him. Whatever problem he had must be something. She can feel his emotional struggle. “I have a problem too.” After a moment of hesitation, she decided to confess. “Alam mo bang naglayas ako sa amin ngayong gabi?” She smiled painfully.

Nilingon ni Troy ang dalaga. Nakita niya ang pait sa magandang mukha nito. And suddenly, he wanted to protect her. “Pareho pala tayo,” he was happy to see any connection with her. “Parang gusto ko na nga ring maglayas eh. My father was too much.”

“My Dad too…” Her voice cracked.

He reached for her hand.  He wanted to console her. He hated to see her hurt like this. He can see pain in her eyes. And he undertood her. His father was difficult as well. “It’s okay…” He whispered softly. “At least you’re free now. I’m not yet.”

“If I can just go to a place where I can simply forget everything and just have fun, you know, I never had one in my life.” Rein sweetly whined.

Troy beamed a smile. Now he knew what he wanted to do tonight, where they wanted to be. She wanted fun, and that’s what he needed as well.

“Then let’s go and have some fun.” Muli niyang pinaandar ang sasakyan at tinahak ang daan papuntang Makati Avenue. He will bring her to Nirvana, a club owned by Nat, ang lead guitarist ng kinabibilangan niyang bandang Peppers.