The Gold-digging Mastermind

Huling Kabanata

Daxiel Gustav de Clemente’s

Love’s unpredictable.

People don’t even know when they are going to be hit by that so-called love. Apparently, it just happens. Napailing na lang ako habang pinagmamasdan ang mga kaibigan ko.

Of all my friends, it was Kyron who got struck of the love effect first. The guy who didn’t believe in love most… ironically.

It’s an interesting discourse.

I’m open with the possibility of love but I haven’t found the right one yet…

Most are just forgettable faces.

No one has ever made my heart incredibly faster than the usual just like how they advertise it on the television or books.

“What the fuck, Jandro? You hired fucking strippers? I’m outta here!” Kyron was mad.

“Don’t you want some fun? This is your last time to have fun! Kung gusto mo sana ng tahimik, sana nagpa-prayer meeting kayong dalawa ni Daxiel!” Jandro rebutted. Our other friends started betting on the two.

He gained a reaction from me.

I was minding my own business drinking beer, Jandro dragged my name on the topic.

I’m the quiet type but never religious, his words don’t apply to me.

Anong malay ko sa prayer meeting?

“You’re going to explain this to my wife or else this friendship will be over!” Kyron walked out.

I stood to follow Kyron’s lead, it seemed the party was over. I was about to remove the fucking mask covering my face when someone stopped me from the door. She put her hand on my shoulder and started dancing sexily.

Itinulak niya ako, napaatras lang ako.

We reached the room.

Pinaupo niya ako sa kama samantalang pumuwesto siya sa gitna na may built-in pole. I woke up in trance and realized she probably thought I was the groom.

“Congrats sa kasal, sir. Sigurado ka bang gusto mo na agad pagtaksilan ang mapapangasawa mo?” Pabiro ang kanyang atake na mayroong talas.

Sumakay siya sa pole.

Pinagmasdan ko naman ang babae.

She was also wearing a mask. Lantad naman ang gandang taglay nito kahit mayroong tahob.

“Hindi ako ang magpapakasal. I’m just one of the groomsmen.”

“Hala! Hindi ikaw? Sir, bakit hindi mo naman po agad sinabi? Nasaan ang groom?” Agad siyang bumaba sa pole.

“He walked out. It’s just our other friend who prepared the bachelor’s party and it’s all his idea to hire strippers.” Her eyes seemed worried, it must be the payment. “Don’t worry I’ll tell him to pay you even without dancing with the groom.”

Ngumuso siya. “No hablas ingles. Dahan – dahan naman po, hindi na makasabay iyong tao.”

Oh.

I laughed.

Tumayo ako at tumungo sa mini fridge. I got two beers.

“Gusto mo ng beer?” I asked her.

Ngumiti naman siya.

Tinanggal niya ang mask na tumatahob sa mukha. I was right on my observation. The woman’s beautiful.

Kinuha niya ang isang botelya at agad iyong tinungga. I just stared at her in awe.

I offered the beer in my hand after she finished the first one.

“Anong serbisyo ang p’wede kong i-offer sa’yo, sir? Para hindi naman sayang ang bayad sa dapat ay pagsayaw ko sa groom,” tanong niya. “Salamat sa beer, ha. Baka may pulutan ka rin d’yan.”

“We can talk…” sagot ko.

“Gusto ko ‘yan! Sinong pagtsi-tsismisan natin at bibirahin patalikod?” Her eyes twinkled with mischief.

“About my problems sana.” I told her.

It slipped off my tongue.

“Walang problema.” She stopped for a second and chuckled.

I found myself keep staring at her.

“Ibig kong sabihin, ayos lang sa akin. Walang problema sa akin. Ilabas mo lang ang nasa loob mo. Mas mahirap kapag bitin.”

She sat on the other side of the bed. I walked toward the fridge again. Kinuha ko nang lahat ng beer at pagkaing andoon para hindi na ako magpabalik – balik kapag naubusan siya nang inumin.

Her aura was so calm. Panatag din ako habang kasama ko siya.

“‘Yon, oh. Salamat, boss.” Muli niya akong nginitian. “Wala pa akong kain.”

“You haven’t eaten before going here? I don’t think the cake would suffice your hungry stomach. Do you want me to order something else?” I blurted out.

I couldn’t even function with a hungry tummy, it doesn’t give sufficient nutrients for my neurons to function.

“P’wedeng hinay – hinay sa ingles? Kailangan ko muna ng ilang oras para maintindihan ang mahahabang pangungusap,” saad niya.

“I mean, gusto mo bang um-order ng iba pang pagkain? Hindi sapat ‘yong cake para ma-full ka.”

She shook her head.

“P’wede na ‘tong cake, kung minsan nga wala eh.” Nanatili siyang nakangiti.

“Sige na, boss. Magkuwento ka na makikinig lang ako. Pero wala akong maipapayo sa’yo, ah. Magkaiba naman kasi ang problemang kinahaharap natin saka baka hindi ko rin maintindihan mga terminolohiya mo.” She encouraged.

For a moment, my eyes were focused on her as she devoured the cake. It was a weird combination to drink beer while eating cake, but she was thankful that she had any of them.

I didn’t even know how to start a conversation with her. I wasn’t planning for a heart-to-heart talk.

It had been rough for me the past months having to establish my business in the market being the sole competitor as my flesh and blood. I was born rich but grew up in a dysfunctional household with no financial support from my father.

And my mother, on the other hand, has questionable spending habits.

Before I thought that parents would put their kid’s needs first…

It wasn’t real on my part.

Problems were arising, I was feeling disappointed with myself.

I believed I was good enough to start one but there were unforeseen circumstances.

Namalayan ko na lang na ilang bote nang naubos naming dalawa. Even the cake was almost gone. We were already lying on the bed.

“Wala tayong ibang pagpipilian, tayo lang naman din ang makakaresolba ng problema natin. Ano ka ba? Kaya mo ‘yan. Malayo nang narating mo, konting kembot na lang…” She gave me an encouraging smile.

“Baka naman hindi ka marunong kumembot…” We both laughed.

I never knew what I only needed to cheer me up is a conversation with the stripper hired by Jandro.

Kalmado siya at pasensyosong makinig sa problema ko.

“How about you? What are your struggles… What’s your problema?”

“Pera,” she answered.

“Siguro mas okay na maging malungkot na maraming pera. Malungkot nga pero nabibili mo naman ang gusto mo. May pagkakatulad din pala tayo, sir. Parehas walang kwenta mga magulang natin. At nakakainis na malambot pa rin ang puso ko….” Narinig ko ang pagbuntong-hininga niya.

“Iyong kinikita ko rito, napupunta sa pampagamot niya. Ganoon talaga ang buhay, hindi lahat napupunta sa’yo. Napakaperpekto ko na kung pati nabiyayaan ako ng yaman at maayos na magulang. Hanggang ganda lang ako.” Her giggles echoed around the room.

“That’s true…” I agreed without a second thought.

Maganda naman talaga siya.

“Uy, nagagandahan siya sa akin! Sige lang, tingin ka lang.”

She didn’t need to say that, I did.

As I stared at her, her eyes started to close on its own. Marami siyang nainom. Marami rin siyang nakain. She was probably tired.

I maintained the distance between us and closed my eyes.

Love may not be something as making heart beat faster rather it’s the calmness but being fluttered at the same time. I woke up feeling dizzy, someone was tapping my shoulder in a hurry.

“P’wede ba akong humiram ng limandaan? Pangkain ko lang para sa isang linggo. Gipit na gipit lang ang beauty ko.”

Wala pa ako sa wisyo.

I gave her my wallet.

“Hayaan mo ibabalik ko naman sa’yo ‘to, promise!” I heard her voice again before the hotel door closed.

I stayed still in that position letting things sink in to my system. Nakapa ko pa ang mask na suot ko mula kagabi. I didn’t remove it. Bumalikwas ako, tumusok ang wallet sa aking likuran.

She could’ve taken everything in my wallet, I wouldn’t mind.

It was worth of our conversation last night. Gumaan ang pakiramdam ko.

Tanging five-hundred peso bill lang talaga ang kinuha niya.

Napagawi ang tingin ko sa pinto nang bumukas ito. I thought it was the woman from last night, I summoned the courage to ask for her name the second time. I was met with Jandro’s teasing whistles.

“Got laid last night? ‘Rekta agad sa kuwarto. Hanep, pare.”

“I’m not like you, so no.” I didn’t bother looking at him.

“Anong ginawa n’yo? Nagdasal buong magdamag?” He was trying to force me to confess what happened last night.

Wala namang nangyari. Nag-usap lang kami. Palibhasa gawain niya.

The talk was something I needed more than sex. She was a good listener with a funny humor. Pinagaan niya ang seryosong usapan.

“What?! Nothing happened between us.” Nagsalubong nang kilay ko. “Double what you’re supposed to pay her. She borrowed a five-hundred peso bill, it seemed like she wasn’t earning enough for herself. Napupunta raw sa ina nito.”

“You really just talked to her all night?”

I nodded.

He was shaking his head as he walked outside the door leaving me with some peace and quiet. Bumangon ako para mag-shower bago umalis ng penthouse.

My friends were still hanging out on the living area of the penthouse.

“Had a good night?” tanong pa nila.

I didn’t respond to their assumptions and went back to my apartment. I was living frugally while my mother was spending luxurious amount on trips abroad.

Hinayaan ko na lang siya, pambawi dahil hindi naman siya nagawang tratuhin ng aking ama. I was forced to be the obedient son. Lahat ng hiling niya kailangan kong sundin.

Growing older meant realizing the toxic environment I grew up in… realizing how toxic my mother was… I was seeing the light I couldn’t seem to understand when I was younger.

I busied myself in building my own company and resources.

Failures didn’t stop me from trying until I succeeded.

Whenever I wanted to give up, I was reminded of a beautiful face I met last time. Ilang linggo nang lumipas, hindi pa rin siya nawala sa isipan ko. I might consider there’s something wrong with me.

“Hello. Is this Mr. Daxiel de Clemente? You were a guest in our hotel last month. I’m Carla, the receptionist.” My forehead creased and looked at the telephone number. “Sir Jandro gave me your number.”

Was I being scammed? Hinayaan kong magsalita ang kausap ko sa kabilang linya.

“Someone relayed a message to give you back a five-hundred peso bill, Mr. de Clemente.”

I suddenly stood from my seat.

It flattened the frown on my forehead. Maayos akong nakipag-usap sa kabilang linya. I asked the woman for the details but she didn’t give me anything as the sender refused to give information.

Hindi ako nagpumilit, mayroon akong ibang koneksyon. Hiningi ko kay Jandro ang club na pinagtatrabahuhan ng strippers para sa bachelor’s party ni Kyron.

I found her.

Olga Millaray Perfecto.

Even the name suits her, huh.

Golden and perfect.

I just wanted to know her name.

I’m not worthy enough to pursue her. For now, she’s an inspiration to me. Gago, hindi na ako bata para magkaroon ng crush.

***

“Congratulations, dude!”

“To Daxiel’s success!” The glasses clinked.

My friends went to trash my new place. They only brought wine with them and a takeout pizza order. Wala pang kaayusan ang penthouse unit. Mas lalo nilang pinalala ang dapat kong ayusin.

“What’s the plan? Everyone’s so busy these days. Magsipag-asawa na kayo, mga tangina.” Bumaling sa akin si Jandro kahit nanahimik ako sa sarili kong pamamahay. “Kailan mo balak, Daxiel?”

“Mauna ka muna, sunod ako.” I replied.

May balak na akong landiin, mukhang hindi siya interesado. Hindi siya nagparamdam sa offer kong trabaho. It had been weeks already. Maybe, I would follow up on my job offer for her.

“Dax, have you heard?”

“Obviously, no.”

“Tangina nito, ang gago kausap.” Cameron commented.

“You should be direct to the point. You’re starting the conversation with have you heard with no actual context, mas gago ka.” I didn’t filter the words, he deserved it for annoying me.

We’re old and he still has no proper etiquette in talking nor texting.

He sighed. “Your father’s getting married.”

“I don’t care. Matagal na siyang wala sa buhay namin.” Ininom ko ang hawak basong may lamang alak.

“You know that your father tried…”

I glanced at him coldly. “He didn’t try enough. Both of my parents were trash.”

“I just let you know, no harm intended, dude.” Tinapik niya ang braso ko.

I knew about that. I was given the invitation.

Once they left, I looked for the invitation in the trash can. I didn’t bother opening it but I got curious of the woman he was marrying. My jaw dropped at the same time my heart did.

He is marrying Millaray.

The woman…

Pinunit ko ang invitation at sinipa ang basurahan sa inis ko. Palagi na lang hadlang sa akin ang matandang iyon. No wonder he isn’t dying yet… he’s such a bad… Nasa kanya lahat ng sisi ko.

I couldn’t blame Millaray for wanting a good life and for thinking that marrying my old fucking father would resolve her problems with money.

Wala na pala akong tiyansa. Inipon ko ang lakas ng loob para humakbang at magpakilala sa kanya ng ilang taon. Naunahan na pala ako ng matanda. I was raging mad.

Ibinawi ko na lang iyon sa pagpapabagsak ng negosyo niya.

Sa pag-angat ko sa industriya, siya naman ang paunti – unti niyang pagbulusok sa lupa.

That’s a little revenge compared to what I faced as a child growing up having dysfunctional parents and lacking necessities even I was born with a golden spoon. I had to do everything on my own without the help of my wealthy father.

He even got the girl that I like…

***

“Sir Daxiel, Atty. Buendia’s looking for you. He’s your father’s attorney.”

When I entered the office, a certain attorney was waiting for me. Nakipagkamay ito sa akin at ipinaalam ang balitang pumanaw nang aking mata. So, I heard. It was on the obituary page.

It was the least of my concerns.

“Won’t you see your father one last time?” He asked me.

“Maybe… If he wasn’t a bad father.” I shrugged.

He sighed.

“There’s something we need you to do. Consider it as a last request from your father…”

I chuckled without humor.

Hindi ako kasama sa pamana pero may gana pa silang humingi ng pabor sa akin. That was another level of audacity from them.

But it caught my interest when he mentioned a familiar name — my father’s new wife of three years.

It was a task to test she wasn’t just a gold-digging scam. Mas lalong hindi ako makapaniwala sa narinig. She put up with everything in that marriage and there’s still a chance she won’t inherit any penny?

The least they could do is give her the money for the compensation of what she had been through the marriage. Mas humaba ang buhay ng aking ama sa pag-aalaga ni Millaray sa kanya.

I had to go back to the Philippines to ensure that the inheritance would be transferred to her name. At the same time, I formulated a plan on my own. Baka ito na ang tamang tiyansa para sa aming dalawa.

She looked at me from head to toe without recognizing me.

After all these years, her face was still engraved into my system. Mas lalong gumanda siya.

“I will contest the will…” I said.

Naguluhan siya at bumulong. Hindi malayo ang agwat niya sa akin, I was able to hear her comment.

“Marunong ba siyang sumayaw?” she murmured.

I suppressed a laugh by biting my lip too hard.

There was no contesting of the will, it was just all for show to test if she was worthy of the inheritance. Without doubt, she is. I’ll make sure she’s going to inherit everything.

I came back to the mansion more often.

Wala naman iyon sa usapan namin ni Atty. Buendia, gusto ko lang mapalapit kay Millaray. Alam kong inis siya sa akin pero tinanggap niya pa rin ako sa mansyon nang maayos.

Madalas ang interaksyon naming dalawa. I was looking forward to it every waking day.

Olga Millaray is such an open book. Madali siyang basahin. Her honest expressions betray her every time she’s acting otherwise. I understood her point of view about the situation.

Para sa kanya, isa akong kaaway na handang kuhanin ang manang pinaghirapan niya sa loob ng tatlong taon. I was her biggest threat for contesting the will. I was sure she was thinking how greedy I am with money.

Mabait siya… at binabaliw ako.

Maybe, it was her punishment to me for being the thorn in her success. Nilalandi niya ako, pinapaasa at sa huli’y hindi naman niya pananagutan. When it comes to her, I couldn’t even stop myself from falling even I was being played.

I let her play by her rules.

Opportunities came knocking on my door. Gusto niyang mag-ampon ng alagang aso.

She was thinking to tie us more tightly. Hindi naman niya ako tinatali sa kanya kung willing naman ako. But I could use it once she’s done and bored with me.

“Here’s the deal. Whoever got the inheritance has to donate money to his or her chosen charity. Is that good enough for you? You can donate any amount you want in the shelter if you win.” Inilahad ko ang plano.

With or without the inheritance, I’m donating a sum of money to the pound.

“If you win, you have to donate it here as well. Kapag ganoon, deal ako.”

I shook my head but I agreed to all her requests.

“Okay. Deal.”

Siniguro kong nakapangalan sa aking ang papeles ng inampon namin na pinangalanan niyang Gustav the Third. Maghiwalay man kami ng landas, sa akin mapupunta ang aso sa legal na paraan.

Hindi niya matitiis na hindi makipagkita sa akin kung gusto pa niyang makita si Gustav the Third.

Gustav the Third… Ang bantot ng pangalan.

P’wede namang Daxiel Pogi or Daxiel the Third. I’m not even using that second name of mine, I despised it.

She likes it.

Nasanay na rin ako sa pangalan ng anak namin. Mas mabilis pa niyang nakuha ang puso ni Millaray kaysa sa akin. As much as she tolerated my presence, I could feel her hesitancy to let me win her heart.

Mas malaki ang pagdududa niya sa aking intensyon, it was understandable knowing how I presented myself to her.

Pinagmasdan ko siya mula sa tayo ko.

Ngumisi ako nang makita siyang tulala. Her mind’s very imaginative. Sa tuwing nakikita ko siyang tulala, malamang ay nasa imahinasyon siya na parang nasa telenobela.

Then, she talked with Gustav the Third. It put a smile on my face more permanently.

Nabasag lang ang tingin ko nang tumikhim si Maricel. May dala siyang tray ng pagkain. Nagluto ang mga ito ng merienda kasama si Millaray.

“Baka matunaw ho ang amo namin…”

Tinanggap ko ang tray. “Not so easily. I’m not powerful enough to melt a diamond. Thank you for this, Maricel.”

One thing that increases my admiration for Millaray even more is how she treats the people who work for her. Madalas niyang itanggi ang katangiang iyon. But she’s really kind.

For Cameron’s wedding, she wanted to go with me.

Kulang na lang dalhin niya ang buong mansyon. In the duration of being wedded to my father, she didn’t experience to travel and relax.

She should’ve just waited for me…

Hindi niya nga ako kilala. I shook my head.

Ramdam ko ang himig ng tampo nang bumalik kami sa Manila. Hindi man lang niya ako kinausap sa durasyon ng biyahe at agad siyang tumungo sa kuwarto niya nang makarating kami sa mansyon.

Inabot ko sa mga kasambahay ang pasalubong. Millaray wanted to buy them something, but she didn’t ask me. Her accounts and cards were frozen as part of the effect of my father’s task.

Nagkusa akong bilhan sila ng pasalubong sa ngalan ni Millaray. Pinindot ko ang doorbell ng kanyang kuwarto.

“What?”

“You forgot your souvenirs.”

She looked unwell. My forehead creased trying to figure out what was happening to her.

“I didn’t… I…”

Muntikan siyang bumagsak sa sahig kung hindi ko naagapan. Mainit ang kanyang balat. It answered my question earlier. She wasn’t feeling well.

Dinala ko siya sa kama at pinahiga para makapagpahinga. Tumawag ako ng doctor para tingnan ang lagay niya.

Inalerto ko sina Maricel at nagpaluto ako ng pagkaing magugustuhan ng may sakit. Sobrang pag-aalala nila kay Millaray, hindi niya ako tinantanan hangga’t hindi dumarating ang doctor.

She was probably not feeling well earlier that’s why she wasn’t talking to me.

I took the responsibility to care of her.

Oras nang magpasikat ako sa kanya kahit hindi niya alam. Nag-alarm ako sa mga oras na kailangan niyang uminom ng gamot. I would check her in the room from time to time making sure she’s getting better.

She wanted me to accompany her at times. I read books in her room to kill time. Mahirap na kung palagi lang akong nakatingin sa kanya, baka hindi siya komportableng ilang oras ko siyang titigan.

Damn.

Tulog na nga at may sakit pero maganda pa rin.

Tahimik siya kapag may sakit. I didn’t want that. Mas gusto kong abot ang ingay niya sa kapitbahay kahit ilang metro ang layo. It worries me whenever she’s silent. Hindi iyon ang kanyang nature.

The passing weeks showed improvement with our relationship.

I still acted according to Atty. Buendia’s memo. Masungit na nonchalant daw dapat ang atake ko. If it weren’t for that request, nagpabebe na ako kay Millaray. Is that even the right term?

Pabebe, what the fuck?

Jandro’s pabebe. Nakakuha naman siya ng asawa. Maybe, it was effective.

“I’m thinking of letting go our kasambahay and driver. Hindi ko na kasi afford ang magpasuweldo sa kanila. I don’t know… ayoko namang ipasa sa’yo ang responsibilidad. Kaya ko namang gawin ang responsibilidad nila habang andito ka. I can clean and cook.” She sighed.

Pinag-aralan ko ang kanyang ekspresyon. I kept my straight face.

I walked toward her direction to simply give what I’m meaning to give her for a couple of weeks. Matagal ko na dapat iyong ibibigay sa kanya, nawalan lang ako ng pagkakataon nang magkasakit siya.

“It’s yours.”

Me and the black card.

“Anong kapalit?” Her brow rose.

Pick me. Choose me. Love me.

“Just be a good girl, Millaray.”

Her eyes lit up in happiness. I like seeing her happy.

Sunod – sunod ang naging notifications ni Millaray. Kumunot ang noo ko nang mabasa ang naughty toys na binili niya. Is she even aware that I was notified of her purchase?

She’s not a shy type. Kaya niya akong landiin kahit wala siyang nararamdaman, epektibo pa rin. Marami siyang baong green jokes. She’s quick-witted. Mayroon siya palaging sagot sa mga banat ko.

From: Olga Millaray

Money well-spent. Thanks, papa de asukal. ;*

I smiled and clicked the thumbs up emoji.

That evening she cooked for me but I had to bring a business partner into her mansion. May bitbit pa itong kasama. I wasn’t interested to know his daughter who’s clearly interested in me.

Madali kong mabasa ang intensyon ng tao, alam ko agad ang kanyang pakay. I’m only interested in a certain someone. She’s graceful and kind enough to accommodate my visitors to a supposed intimate dinner between us.

I was more annoyed than her.

Panaka – nakang sumusulyap ang aking mata sa direksyon ni Millaray habang kausap ang anak ni Mr. Tan. I was eavesdropping what they were talking about. Dumadagdag ang iritasyon ko sa ugali ng babaeng kausap ni Millaray.

“So, after his father’s death, you’re onto your next target?” The woman asked her.

If Millaray says yes, I’ll be more than happy.

“Yes, next target agad para umariba. Right? You think you have a chance, huh? I’m sure, next time you’ll be here, kasal na ako sa kanya.” It put a smile on my lips.

Patuloy ang pagbuka ng bibig ng kausap ko pero mas invested ako sa pinag-uusapan ng dalawang babae.

“He’s an educated man, he wouldn’t be swayed by a woman like you.”

“Oh, dear. His father is an educated man as well, it didn’t stop him from marrying someone like me.”

I shouldn’t be proud at that moment, but I felt a sense of pride. There’s something wrong with me, probably. It’s another thing I like about Millaray, makulit siya at walang preno sa pagsasalita at hindi nagpapatalo.

People would try to make her feel bad but it always backfires at them.

They can’t hurt her because she embraced her confidence. It makes her more pretty.

Wala siyang pakialam sa sasabihin ng iba lalo na kung ang punto lang nito ay hilahin siya pababa. I need that kind of confidence in saying no to my mother’s whims and demands.

The dinner wasn’t a disaster.

Masarap ang nilutong mga pagkain ni Millaray. I was full.

She demanded that I should wash the dishes. Hindi ako marunong. That was the truth.

Mahinahon naman niya akong tinuruan na may kasamang sermon at sarkasmo. We even talked more about our day. Sinabi ko ring may reklamo sa kanya ang anak ni Mr. Tan.

“We went to the mall earlier to fit some gowns for the party. Wala naman akong nagustuhan. Namili na lang kami nina Maricel ng mga kailangan sa bahay at dekorasyon. I also bought gifts for them this coming Christmas,” kuwento niyang pinakinggan kong mabuti.

I invited her to a party. I took a mental note to contact a fashion designer for her.

“I know. You sent photos and I received notifications of your purchases.”

“So, you were notified I purchased some vibrators and dildos?”

I coughed at her bluntness.

Palagi siyang prangka kung magsalita, hindi pa rin ako sanay.

“Millaray…” I warned.

She just laughed at me.

I finished washing all the dishes. It was a relaxing chore, somehow. And I got to talk to her more.

It’s a temporary bliss that I shouldn’t rely myself, but I’m still looking forward to our every interaction.

***

Nawala ako sa pokus ko sa screen ng computer sa vibration ng telepono. Sinagot ko ang tawag.

Bumungad ang excitement ni Millaray sa kabilang linya.

She kept thanking me for hiring a fashion designer to make her gown for the party. It’s nothing truthfully. Wala siyang natipuhan sa mga gown na available sa malls, then she should get someone to make it for her instead.

That’s the solution I thought. Gladly, it made her day.

“Shall I make your dinner tonight, too? I’ll take advantage of your kindness.”

I would love another dinner again with her.

“Do whatever you want, Millaray. I’d love to eat whatever you make.”

“P’wede ko bang ihain ang sarili ko sa mesa?”

This naughty woman…

“Stop teasing me, woman.”

Ayokong bumigay sa panlalandi niya, hindi naman niya pananagutan, uuwi lang akong luhaan. I wanted her to be sure of me before we consume the fire. The tension’s always there.

“Make me.”

I shook my head and canceled the meetings for that day to go back to the mansion. Nadatnan ko siyang naglalangoy sa pool. I just watched her until she noticed my presence.

It made her stumble. Muntikan pa siyang malunod pailalim. I just shook my head and helped her.

Napangiti naman ako. Maybe I had some effect on her already.

I have to work harder on impressing her.

Millaray is goal-driven, she isn’t easily impressed that easily. I have to be consistent with my efforts for her approval. Wala naman akong balak tumigil lalo na kapag gusto na rin niya ako.

Others are only good when they are still in the courting stage. Once they get the girl, their efforts dwindle. Hindi dapat iyon matapos sa panliligaw. That’s why relationship easily breaks and they even wonder why.

The situation isn’t helping me, she’s more cautious of my plans for her.

Wala naman akong ibang plano kung hindi paibigin siya.

She can have my father’s money… She can also have mine.

Basta akin siya.

“Good thing, it was passed onto you. Your dad fell for a gold-digging woman who knows nothing about business…” His nonsense opinion started to irritate me.

“Shut up, you know nothing. I don’t want to hear any stupidity from you again regarding the woman you’re trying so hard to bring down. It’s not working on me.” I gritted my teeth.

If Millaray is a gold-digger, so are they. They are seeking my approval for the growth of their companies. I am the gold they’re going to dig and that old man has lost his chance.

Luminga ako sa kabuuan ng lugar. Nawala agad si Millaray sa paningin ko ilang minuto lang ang lumipas.

I hope she didn’t hear the man’s comments about her.

I don’t want her to be discouraged by her gold-digging scheme.

She should be doing that to me, I’m her willing victim.

Some other businessmen talked to me for a few minutes. They learned from the first one not to mess with me. My attention wasn’t on them, I kept looking for Millaray on the crowd.

I got more irritated at the sight. She was laughing with Alexander, a cousin from my mother’s side.

Even with her family, I didn’t have a close relationship as I was told she wasn’t accepted and how her side of the family bullied her. It didn’t occur my mind before that she was the real problem.

“What are you doing here, Alexander?”

His interaction with Millaray is giving me hard time. I was jealous. Kanina pa niya akong hindi pinapansin simula nang dumating kaming dalawa sa party.

“It’s King Alexander, Gustav.”

My jaw clenched.

He’s just named King Alexander, it doesn’t mean he’s great.

Instead of dancing with me, Millaray danced with another man. I just sulked on the side waiting for them to finish the dance.

“Daxiel!”

Someone interrupted me.

“You’re here pala? Oh my gosh! Do you think it’s destiny pulling us together in one place?” The woman told me.

My forehead creased.

I think, she’s delusional.

I would pay destiny not to be placed in the same room with her. It’s just that we’re in the same line of work, nothing else.

I walked away from her. Nakipag-usap ko ng bahagya sa ibang businessman at hindi nilingon ang babae. After a few talks, I went to find Millaray again. She was facing that delusional woman earlier.

Lumakad ako patungo sa kanila, hinubad ko ang suot kong coat para magamit ni Millaray. Tinapunan siya ng alak ng babae. Instead of receiving the coat I handed, she grabbed my hand and used it wipe the wet part on her chest area.

I suppressed my breaths.

This woman’s testing all the patience I had stored…

“Wala akong panty, Daxiel…” She winked at me.

“There’s a chapel nearby. Pababasbasan kita, Millaray. You’re going to bring me to my death this early.”

No, I was serious.

“Hindi na kailangan. I can bring you to heaven.”

Kinagat ko siya.

Masyado niya akong binabaliw.

She’s such a seductress and she knows her effect on me. One time, she even danced on her studio in the mansion. It never left my mind, it always visits me whenever I’m sleeping at night.

I never wished to be someone else but I’d be fucking happy to be that pole she’s dancing with. So fucking hot.

Cold showers are needed for the fire to stop spreading to my body.

Damn it.

Over the holidays, we spent more time together. I took the leave to be with her more often. She already started decorating the tree and the mansion. Tumulong ako kasama ang anak naming malikot.

Gustav the Third is growing so fast. He’s growing active and sweet. Mahal na mahal siya ni Millaray. Mahal ko naman sila pareho. It was no longer a like, it deepened the more that we spent days together.

To be fair, it never was just a like.

Hindi naman ako handang magpaalipin at magpagamit para sa taong hindi ko naman mahal.

“You’re having fun, huh?” I tickled Gustav the Third. “You will help daddy if mommy decides to let go of me, promise?”

“Sana ol kini-kiss…” Napatigil naman ako sa pagkausap sa alaga namin. Did she hear me talking to Gustav the Third? It doesn’t matter. The question should be focused if she heard what I said to our furbaby. “Kailan kaya ako?”

Millaray sat down next to us.

Humiga ang alaga namin sa aming lap. His head rested on Millaray’s lap, I caressed his fur. Millaray kept giving him some treats.

“Parang kailan lang, malaki nang anak natin, Daxiel…” Ngumiti siya. “It was still the best decision having him in our life.”

“I’m glad you’re happy.”

“You know what makes me happy even more?”

I raised a brow.

Halata ko na agad ang naglalaro sa kanyang isipan.

“What?” I still asked.

“You…” Her smile turned into a teasing smirk. “Between my thighs, eating me down there while I was pulling your hair and moaning your name. Doesn’t it make you happy?”

I stood and left her in the couch.

Why does she need to make it so detailed that I can visualize it? I went to my room and took another cold shower. Magkakaroon yata ako ng sakit sa ilang beses kong paliligo ng malamig sa isang araw.

Paulit – ulit na pumapasok sa isipan ko.

Me, between her thighs… I would really devour her.

Then, Atty. Buendia and my father’s plan has too be a thorn to our growing closeness. She’s hesitant to trust me fully, I couldn’t blame her. Sa paningin niya, isa akong malaking sagabal sa kanyang pinaghirapan.

I was announced to be the sole inheritor of my father’s wealth to test her even further.

Naiinip na ako sa plano ng attorney.

“Congrats, remember what you promised? You’ll donate some to the chosen charity. By the way, let me stay until the holidays… it’s just for a month, at least.” Her eyes were sad yet she still congratulated me.

That’s it? She won’t run after me?

Hindi ba dapat ako naman ang paibigin niya… I’m already in love.

She should start planning how to scheme me. I’m ready for her. I’m ready to take it to the next level.

Ibibigay ko sa kanya lahat ng pinaghirapan ko, basta sa akin ang bagsak niya…

“Where’s Millaray, Maricel?”

Hindi ko na siya nakita mula pa kanina.

Our furbaby is with her, I’m getting worried for the both of them.

“Kanina pa pong hindi umuuwi si Ma’am Olga, Sir Daxiel. Hindi po namin alam kung saan pumunta, itanong n’yo ho kay Abner.” I did what she told me. Nagpahatid daw ito sa sementeryo kaya doon din ang punta ko.

There I found her in my father’s museleo. She looked wasted. Tulog na siya sa sahig.

Sinalubong ako ni Gustav the Third na kumakawag ang buntot at pabalik – balik ang tingin kay Millaray na animo’y nagsusumbong sa akin. Inuna kong dalhin sa sasakyan ang anak namin, binalikan ko naman si Millaray.

Natagpuan ko pa ang alak niyang ininom. I just shook my head and lifted her up.

“So, that’s my view while you’re pounding me senseless?”

I’ll let her experience it one of these days.

“You’re drunk, but you’re still naughty, huh. Naughty, naughty girl. You’re reeking alcohol, Millaray.”

She’s really drunk.

Drunk and naughty.

“Daxiel, you’re so g’wapo. Bakit ang g’wapo mo? Bagay tayo. Maganda ako, look at… at my puppy eyes. Feeling ko gusto mo ‘kong maging girlfriend. Mabait naman ako, kaya tayo na…” I laughed at her cuteness. “Dali na, kiss mo ‘ko…”

Hay, nako.

My Millaray’s cute when she’s drunk.

“No, ma’am. I don’t kiss a drunk woman.” I told her firmly.

But being her boyfriend? She didn’t need to ask me twice.

“You got yourself an instant boyfriend after you got drunk, huh? Sleep well, Millaray. Let’s talk in the morning.”

There would be a serious talk in the morning, I wouldn’t let go of the opportunity.

Binuhat ko siya patungong kuwarto. Maricel asked me of what happened to her. I just gave her a brief explanation and asked her to clean her. She didn’t let go of me when I put her into bed.

“How’s your sleep, girlfriend?” I greeted.

Kanina pa siyang gumalaw. I could feel her staring at me for a long time.

She was confused. “Girlfriend?”

“Yes, you just proposed to me last night. You wanted me to be your boyfriend.” I answered with a smirk forming my lips.

“I was drunk last night. You’re really going to accept a drunk woman’s word?”

“Drunk words are sober thoughts.”

“Ah, so kapag nag-inom uli ako mamayang gabi at inaya kitang pakasalan bukas, pakakasalan mo ako?”

“Why not?”

Millaray stared at her for a long time with a serious expression.

“Gumugusto ka, ah. Sige nga, hubad! Boyfriend pala, ha.” She went on top of me.

Humilig siya sa akin. She had a pained expression. Hinawakan niya ang noo.

It was the effect of the alcohol she drunk last night.

I knew I was part of the reason why she got drunk last night. Pinalabas ni Atty. Buendia na ako ang nakakuha ng mana. It must have hurt Millaray a lot. At the same time, I was thinking she was missing my father.

She has a big heart. Baka minahal niya ng totoo ang aking ama.

Hindi niya sinagot ang tanong ko.

I sighed.

“Masakit ang ulo ko. Kiss mo ‘ko sa lips para maibsan ang sakit, Daxiel. Do you want to be appointed as my boyfriend? Bakit? Hanggang kailan? Para ihahanda ko na ang aking sarili kung kailan ako masasaktan.” Her tone was joking.

“For as long as you want me…”

Even if you don’t want me anymore, I’ll have our baby dog…

“Paano pala kung panghabang buhay kitang gusto?” She asked raising a brow.

“I’ll be with you for a lifetime, then.”

Seryoso ako.

Siya lang naman ang hindi. I know she’s just going to use me, I anticipated it. Handa pa rin akong sumugal para sa tiyansa naming dalawa.

“Linyahan ng mga magagaling lang sa una. Baka naman kapag binigay ko na sa’yo ang lahat lahat, saka mo naman ako iiwan… Ayoko nang may ibang babae, puputulin ko ‘yang titi mo, ipapakain ko kay Gustav the Third.”

Simula nang makilala ko siya sa maikling interaksyon, hindi na siya nawala sa isipan ko at kahit ikinasal siya sa aking ama, hindi pa rin nabago ang ihip ng hangin. Therefore, it meant for a long time.

“Pumapayag ka pa rin bang maging boyfriend ko?”

“You’re not scaring me with those threats, Millaray. I’m not a cheating scumbag. Yes, I still want to be your boyfriend.”

“Why? Wala ka namang makukuha sa akin. Hindi ako mayaman. Maganda lang ako. Maalindog. Masarap…” She giggled. “Feeling ko talaga, crush mo na ako, unang kita mo pa lang sa akin.”

Paano kung umamin akong matagal ko na siyang gusto? Lumalim nang naramdaman ko sa tagal ng panahon. For a long time, I built and improved myself because she inspired me.

Wala na akong balak pakawalan pa siya. Hanggang kasal nang patutunguhan ng relasyon namin.

Break up isn’t an option… unless I purposely hurt her which will never happen.

We became official.

To me, we’re official. For Millaray, I’m just the bigger fish she needs to catch.

But it’s an opportunity for me to let her fall for me. Ginagamit niya ako habang pinapaibig ko siya. In that way, walang talo sa aming dalawa.

We spent more days together during the holidays. My mother never called me to even greet me during special occasions. When I was younger, I was forcing a bond to happen during Christmas or new years.

Nasanay na rin ako sa wala.

It was Millaray’s first time to spend holidays alone. Sa loob ng tatlong taon, umuwi ng sabay ang mga kasambahay. Wala rin ang aking ama para maging kasama niya.

I want to spend the holidays with her starting this year until it becomes a habit.

Halos magkaparehas naman ang takbo ng istorya ng buhay naming dalawa. We both have dysfunctional families with parents who never cared enough about us.

I’m a bit hesitant to give in to her seduction… but I couldn’t even stop myself from devouring her. If given a chance, I want to do it with her once we’re both in love. At least, I’m in love.

Ihahabol na lang iyong pagmamahal ni Millaray.

“You’re perfect, baby.” I groaned pouring the last bit of the future generation.

Hindi man niya ako mahal. At least, she’s not faking it whenever we do the deed. She’s enjoying our love-making sessions. She desires me. She wants me. She wants me doing the dirty.

Her sweet moans are music to my ears. Mas masarap pakinggan kapag tinatawag niya ang pangalan ko. Maraming beses naming pinagsaluhan ang apoy. I was disappointed that it didn’t result into pregnancy.

Handa ako sa responsibilidad na panagutan siya.

I kept seeing her fear whenever I brought up the topic. Hindi siya handang maging ina.

As disappointed as I was, maybe it was for the better. A child shouldn’t be the bind between two people. Children shouldn’t be conceived to trap someone or for the reason to make the relationship stable.

Pareho kami ni Millaray ng pinagdaanan pati sa pamilya. Alam naming dalawa kung gaano kahirap ang lumaki sa magulang na hindi handa sa responsibilidad. We’re a product of that.

I’m ready but she’s not. I have to respect that.

“Bakit hindi ka nagmodelo, babycakes?”

Babycakes.

Jejemon is my pet peeve. She’s the only exception to the rule. Mahal ko talaga.

She’s applying make up to my face. Ako na naman ang napagdiskitahan niya. Good thing, I’m seeing her closely.

“I wouldn’t survive, not my cup of tea.” I answered her question. “Ikaw, why didn’t you model? You’re perfect on that job.”

“Well…” She sighed. “Dati madalas ipamukha sa akin ng ina kong hindi ako maganda… Na kakaiba ako sa masamang paraan. May iba akong lahi. Tapos iyong ibang taga-amin, ganoon din ang tingin sa akin. Sus, mga inggit lang pala.”

Humalakhak siya. “‘Di ko naman alam mga ganyang bagay noon. At alam ko naman sa sarili kong walang lugar sa akin ang pangarap dahil mas kailangan kong kumayod sa mas madaling paraan. Wala nga akong matinong pangarap noon maliban sa gusto ko lang makaahon sa buhay… iyong tipong gigising ako na mayroong ihahandang pagkain sa mesa. Hindi ‘yong magkukumahog akong lumabas para umutang sa kapitbahay na may sari-sari store. Pero dahil marami na akong nasa listahan, ayaw na nila akong pautangin.”

She pinched my cheeks.

“Bakit lumungkot ang ekspresyon mo? Ano ka ba?! Okay na ako ngayon. Nakakain na ako ng masarap, s’yempre kasama ka rin sa kinakain kong masarap.” She even joked to make me feel a little better.

“Daxiel, hindi mo ako kailangang kaawaan. Matagal nang lumipas iyon.” Ngumiti siya sa akin.

“I’m not pitying you. I’m just admiring you. You endured a lot and you remained positive in life. You had your heavy baggage but you didn’t let it ruin you being joyful. Thank you for coming into my life, Millaray. You’re an inspiration to me.” I pulled her closer into a hug.

Millaray never changed since the time I met her years ago. She still possessed that jolly personality. Hindi siya nagpatalo sa alon ng buhay. I wish I’m ready for a relationship when we met, I could’ve proposed by then.

Mas hinigpitan niya ang yakap sa akin. She even gave kisses to every part of my face.

“Do you feel better?” she asked softly. “I know something that will make you feel better.”

“Your presence is enough, baby.”

Hinalikan niya ako sa labi.

Masuyo.

I’m turning into something… delusional.

Pakiramdam ko mayroon ng kasamang emosyon ang bawat halik niya. Ilang buwan na rin ang itinagal namin. We rarely had quarrels, it was mostly resolved before they escalate into something big.

Matanda na kami pareho para mag-away bata.

And… things between us had to be ruined by my mother.

Wala akong ideya kung bakit siya umuwi at bumalik. Gulo lang ang dala niya sa buhay ko.

“What do you need, mom?” I asked with no expression.

“There’s a resort I want to stay once I retire from travelling. Buy it for me. Your father gave you some money, right? Imposible namang hindi. Iyon na lang ang magiging hati ko sa iniwan niya sa’yo.”

Umigting ang aking panga sa narinig. I couldn’t believe her.

“No,” I said firmly. “It’s not mine.”

“Oh, pinamana niya sa gold-digger niyang asawa? He had no shame at all!”

There goes her tantrums.

Nakakapagod makinig sa bawat detalye niyang pahayag. Wala akong pakialam sa kanyang sasabihin.

She looked at me. “I heard you’re fucking that woman… you’re using her? You’re such a clever man. Pigain mo ang kayamanang iniwan ng iyong ama sa impaktang iyon.”

Tumigas ang ekspresyon ko. Nakaramdam ako ng galit.

She’s such a great representation that not all are fit to be parents.

“Mahal ko siya. I won’t use her for your gain nor even my gain.” I said firmly.

Humakbang ako paalis ng hotel.

“Baliw ka na ba? Pati ikaw nagpaloko sa babaeng iyon? Mana ka talaga sa ama mong walang kuwenta! Wala kang silbing anak! Sana hindi na lang kita binuhay kung ganyan ka rin lang sa pagtanda mo…” I didn’t hear the next words, I left her at her hotel room.

Hindi iyon ang huling beses na ginulo niya kami. Kinapalan pa niya ang mukhang tumira sa mansyon ni Millaray pati ang furbaby namin ay nadamay sa kanyang pangugulo.

The time didn’t favor me.

I had to go to the province to resolve an issue regarding my father’s company. Halos hindi ako mapakali habang nasa ibang bayan. Bukod kay Millaray, tinawagan ko rin si Maricel upang itanong ang kalagayan ng mag-ina ko.

I was afraid she wasn’t telling me the truth. Baka pinapakalma lang niya ako hanggang matapos ko ang gawaing ipinunta ko.

Once I got back, I tried to negotiate with my mother.

Gusto ko na sanang um-oo sa mga hiling niya pero sa tuwing napagsasalitaan niya ng masasakit si Millaray, hindi ko magawang pumayag.

We stayed on our hotel first. Kinausap ko na rin si Atty. Buendia na dapat na niyang sabihin ang totoo kay Millaray… that it was all planned and part of the act except for my feelings.

It would give her boost to evict my mother in the mansion coldly even if it means she’s breaking up with me, she’s being a pest already.

Hindi na ako kailangan. Hindi na ako kasama sa plano.

I’m sure she’ll get rid of me the soonest.

It pains me.

But I still have another plan in mind. Pumasok nang pagkuha ko sa alagang aso namin.

Bumalik ako sa dating penthouse. I stayed there until I got a date from her.

Hindi rin nagtagal ang paghihiwalay naming dalawa. She asked me the things from the past, I confessed to her everything I wanted to say. My heart stopped beating for a second when she told me she was feeling the same thing.

I already bought a mansion and a ring. Anytime, I’m ready to ask her the question.

“Oh, D-daxiel…” She moaned as I took her in the table. “Fuck me harder and faster…”

Her legs were parted widely.

I obeyed her instructions.

She’s not asking for deeper, my shaft already reached her deepest part.

I’m obsessed watching her reaction.

Her lips was slightly parted, she was blushing softly and her eyes were pleading me to discharge my cum into her.

Instead of a wedding, we had kids first.

Daxiel Miller III and Daxiel Oliver III.

She wants them to have my name with a touch of her name.

Ilang beses niya rin akong tinanggihan sa alok kong kasal. Ayos lang naman, umabot man ng isang-daan handa akong tanungin siya hanggang maging ready siyang pakasalan ako.

Who would’ve thought I would get my Millaray? I’m the luckiest man alive.

“Daxiel, mahal na mahal kita. Promise ko sa’yo na palaging fresh at masarap ang ihahain ko…” We both laughed.

She continued her vows.

“Masaya ako… Masaya ako na sa dinami-rami ng p’wede mong mahalin, ako pa rin ang pinili mo. You’re a good man, a good father, a good partner and husband in the making. I’m lucky to have you. Hindi man ako perpekto gaya ng apelyido ko, susubukan kong maging mabuting maybahay sa’yo. I will take care of you and our children. I will be here with you for better or for worst— maliban sa pagdampot ng tae ni Gustav the Third.” It earned laughter from our guests. “Mamahalin ko kayo panghabang-buhay.”

It started with scheming. It concluded with a happy ending.

I won her.

***

“Miller, do not climb onto the staircase railings! You’re not spiderman!” Napapikit ako.

Tahol nang tahol si Gustav the Third.

He was trying to prevent Miller from climbing the railings.

Simula nang matutunan nilang lumakad pati pag-akyat sa kung saan – saan natutunan ng dalawa. Agad ko siyang kinuha mula sa railings. Ilang segundo lang akong nalingat sa tawag ng kanyang kapatid, nakaakyat na siya.

Kinarga ko rin si Oliver.

“Didi, I’m Oliver!” He tried to trick me.

Napailing ako.

It was their joke.

Madalas silang magpanggap bilang ibang identidad. Akala yata ng mga ito ay gumagana iyon sa amin. Kilalang – kilala naman namin silang magkapatid kahit magkamukha ang dalawa.

“Miller…” I warned.

“Didi’s not happy!” He pouted and kissed my cheek. “I’m sorry, Didi!”

I shook my head.

They knew how to soften my heart. Minsan kailangan ding maging istrikto lalo na sa ikakasama nila pero ang hirap kapag sa mga anak namin. They are just so cute and sweet.

“Don’t climb on the railings, okay? Mommy and daddy’s going to bring the both of you in a rock climbing gym.” I told them.

“What’s that, Didi?” Oliver asked.

“You can both climb there. I’m sure you’ll love it.” I smiled.

“Whoa!”

They both kissed my face, I just laughed. Sinusulit na namin ang bawat sandali na mahilig pa silang magbigay ng affection. As they grow, it would lessen. But I hope not.

Millaray was pampering herself in solitude. I want her to have an alone time for herself. Bantay naman ako sa mga bata. We would play outside the house until they get tired.

But my kids are extremely active, they don’t get drained easily. It’s good that Millaray and I are active or else we wouldn’t keep up with our kids. I taught them how to ride a bike.

During late afternoon, we ride our bikes in the whole subdivision.

Nakasakay sa harap ko si Millaray, may sariling bike ang mga anak namin. Hindi ko alam na ganito kasaya ang magkaroon ng sariling pamilya.

For now, we are going for a swim in our backyard pool.

Maricel brought snacks to our kiddos. I thanked her.

“Yaya, swim!”

“Nako, hindi marunong lumangoy si Yaya!”

Binigyan niya ng halik sa ulo ang dalawa bago umalis ng pool area. They are still with us. That’s how loyal they are with my wife.

A few minutes later, they are busy with playing.

Kasama rin sa pool si Gustav the Third na gustong – gustong lumangoy kasama ang mga anak namin.

Tawa lang ako nang tawa sa gilid.

I’m confident with my babies’ ability to swim. Nakaalalay lang ako. Madalas na sumasali kapag tinatawag nila ako sa habulan.

“Wow, that’s a relaxing treat!”

Napalingon ako sa pinagmulan ng boses. I automatically smiled seeing my wife.

“You’re back early. What happened?” I asked.

“I missed my boys.”

She went to my corner to give me a kiss on the lips.

“Mimi!” The kids swam to our direction.

Binigyan naman niya ng halik ang bawat isa. She feeds us the snacks. Umahon din agad ang mga bata para maglambing sa asawa ko. I just watched them with a smile on my face.

“Mahal, come here.” I walked toward her.

Pinahid niya ang aking katawan ng malinis na tuwalya at pinasuot ang roba upang hindi lamigin. We hang out in the pool area for awhile, eating and laughing with some cool stories.

“I love you,” I whispered.

Millaray looked at me, smiling.

“Mahal kita, Daxiel.”

“How about us?” Our kids asked, pouting. How cute.

Humalakhak ako. I enveloped them into a big hug.

A big hug for a big family.

I couldn’t ask for more.

I’m content with what I have — a beautiful family.

With my beautiful wife and kids.

The gold was dug. They are my lifetime treasures.

***

WAKAS.

TOC

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