I’m Alessandra Vivienne Montemayor!

I’m 22, a proud graduate of De La Salle University - Dasmariñas (DLSU-D), where I earned my degree in Fashion Design. So, I’m half-Korean, half-Filipino—my dad’s Korean, and my mom’s Filipino. Unfortunately, my mom left when I was 7, and to be honest, I still have no idea if she’s alive or not.

I grew up with my dad, who’s pretty successful and owns this company for fashion designers. But here’s the catch: he’s not about me following in my mom’s footsteps. You see, my mom was a famous designer too, but after she left, he didn’t want me to dive into the same world she did. But hey, that’s not stopping me! Fashion's been in my heart for as long as I can remember, and even though my journey’s been tough, I’m still pushing through to make my own mark in the fashion world.

 Nanonood ako ng movie at talaga namang nag-eenjoy ako sa pinapanood kong action movie. 'Sige pa, ayan, suntukin mo yan! Boogsh!' sabay na sabi ko dahil nag-eenjoy siya sa pinapanood ko. Ngunit biglang may tumawag sa telepono ko. "Ayshi... hello?". "Hoy, anong ginagawa mo?" tanong ni Amila, medyo may pagka-bad trip sa boses.

"Nanonood, wae?" sagot ni Sandra, sabay tawa, kasi hindi niya naman in-expect na ganun ang reaction ni Amila.

"Grabe ka, nag-eenjoy ka d'yan, ako nagpapakahirap dito!" sagot ni Amila, halatang naiinis at naiinggit sa chill na ginagawa ni Sandra.

"Bakit ba kasi?" sagot ni Sandra

"Pumunta ka na dito, malaking problema 'to..." sagot ni Amila, na halatang stressed at kinakabahan.

"Sandra, bilisan mo na, nandito yung daddy mo sa shop mo," sabi ni Amila, na parang nagmamadali na.

Nagmadali na akong nag punta sa shop ko baka mapahamak nanaman ako nito..

Pagkadating ko sa shop Nakita ko agad ang mga guard ni daddy na nakabantay sa pintuan ng shop ko agad akong pumasok baka ginugolo ni daddy ang mga product ko.

"Daddy..." tawag ni Sandra.

"How many times do I need to tell you na tigilan mo na 'to!" sagot ng daddy ni Sandra, na seryoso at senisermonan siya.

"Pero..." sagot ni Sandra.

"No buts... umuwi ka na," sagot ng daddy

Naglalakad na sana si daddy papunta sa sasakyan, pero huminto siya at inabot ng secretary niya ang folder. Pinirmahan ito, at iniwan sa sahig ang tseke na may laman na 10,000. Agad na sumakay si daddy sa sasakyan at umalis nang walang paalam.

Pinulot agad ito ni Amila at inabot sa akin, pero tinangihan ko. "Hindi ko kailangan 'yan," sabi ko, habang iniwasan ko ang tingin niya.

Umalis kami ng shop at nagpunta ng bar. Hindi na kami nag-usap pa, pareho kaming tahimik habang naglalakad.

Pagdating naming sa bar agad kaming umupo at nag order kami ng Vodka. Habang umiinom kami biglang may lumapit saakin. “Hi miss” wika niya hindi pa naman ako lasing ng time nayun kaya pumayag na ako for fun lang naman habang

Sumasayaw kami nararamdaman kong pababa ng pababa ang kamay niya sa katawan ko agad kong tinanggal ang kamay niya sa katawan ko ay hinablot niya ako palapit sa katawan niya, sitsit ako ng sitsit kay Amila pero hindi niya ako napansin, ang lakas nga ng tugtog ng musika kaya hindi nila ako marinig ng biglang may lumapit na poging koreanong lalaking.

"Hi miss, do you mind if we talk for a moment?" sabi ng poging koreano, ang deep ng voice niya, naka Two-Block cut siya tapos bagay pa sa kanya as in ang yummy niya at ang tangkad.

“sure..” sagot ko

“Nakikita mong sumasayaw pa kami” sagot ng lalaking ka sayaw ko.

"Siya yung mag-de-decide," sabi ng poging Koreano, na nakatingin saakin ng may seryosong expression.

Biglang lumapit si Amila at hinablot ang kamay ko pati na rin ang mga bag naming.

“Ano ba?” tanong ko

“yung guard ng daddy mo nandito” sagot ni Amila

“what?”

Umalis kami ng bilisan at may kotsing tumigil sa likoran namin at tinakpan kami habang tumatakbo kaya hindi na kami Nakita ng mga guard’s ni daddy.

Huminto kami sa isang maliit na eskinita.

“Hoo.. teka lang… pahinga mona…”

Habang nagpapahinga kami sa maliit na eskinita, humarap ako kay Amila at inisip ang lahat ng nangyari kanina. Ang sakit ng ulo ko sa mga pangyayari, pero sabay tingin ko sa phone ko, may biglang text na pumasok.

“You are invited to the exclusive launch of Casséle! Fashion designer Cassandra Cruz will be there. Don’t miss it!”

Habang binabasa ko ang mensahe, parang bigla akong napatingin kay Amila. Ang designer na ito ay isa sa mga idol ko sa fashion world, isang paborito ko. Tuwang-tuwa ako at halos magtatatalon sa tuwa. Hindi ko in-expect na magiging part ako ng isang event na ganito kalaki, at ang idol ko pa ang maglunsad ng brand na ito!

"Amila, tingnan mo ‘to!" sabay abot ko sa phone kay Amila.

“Wow, Sandra!” sabi ni Amila, halatang naiintriga at tuwang-tuwa para sa akin. "Pumunta ka na, hindi mo ‘to pwedeng palampasin!"

Pagpasok namin sa shop, agad akong pumunta sa dressing room para mag-isip kung anong isusuot ko sa launch event na ‘yon. Tinatry ko i-capture ang excitement ko, pero may halo din na kaba. I mean, it's a big deal! Si Cassandra Cruz pa mismo ang maglulaunch ng brand niya, tapos ako, gusto ko talagang magmukhang on point. Kailangan ko magmukhang professional pero hindi rin magpapatalo sa fashion, ‘di ba?

“Amila, anong susuotin ko?” tanong ko, habang tinitingnan ko ang mga clothes sa shop.

Si Amila, seryosong-seryoso, tumingin sa mga racks. Tapos, bigla niyang sinabi, “Alam mo, I think may perfect na design for you—yung kay mommy mo.”

Napa-‘huh?’ ako, naguguluhan. “Huh? Yung kay Mommy?”

“Oo, yung design niya. Hindi ko nga alam kung bakit hindi mo pa sinusubukan. I swear, it’s timeless, classic, tapos bagay na bagay sa’yo,” sabi niya, sabay turo sa isang design na nakasabit.

Medyo nahirapan akong mag-react. Kasi, to be honest, hindi ko pa yata kayang ipakita ang mga design ni Mommy sa iba. Matagal ko nang hindi tinitignan yung mga designs niya, and it’s still painful for me to remember. Pero, tingin ko, may punto si Amila.

“Teka lang, Amila, hindi ko alam kung ready na ako,” sabi ko, nag-aalangan.

"Alam ko na medyo masakit pa for you, Sandra. Pero this is your moment. If I were you, I’d wear it. Baka ito pa ang magbigay sa’yo ng edge sa mga tao sa event," sabi ni Amila, na para talagang gustong tulungan ako. “It’s a chance to show them what you’ve got. And to honor your mom.”

Naramdaman ko yung mga sinabi niya. I mean, parang ang tagal ko na kasing itinago yung mga designs ni Mommy. Baka nga ito na yung tamang pagkakataon na ilabas ko lahat ng yun, pati na yung mga part ng sarili ko na natatakot pa akong ipakita.

Nakita ko si Amila na tinitingnan ako ng seryoso. “Baka this is your time, Sandra.”

Nagtitigan kami saglit, tapos kinuha ko yung design na nirecommend niya. Hindi ko pa rin alam kung ready na ako, pero siguro nga, time na para ipakita ko kung anong kaya ko. “Sige na, Amila. Subukan ko.”

Pag-uwi ko sa bahay ng daddy ko, tahimik na tahimik. Walang tao sa loob, and there was something off about the atmosphere. As I walked inside, I noticed the big frame of mommy’s picture on the wall. Biglang nag-flashback ang lahat ng memories—yung mga araw na magkasama kami, at kung paano niya ako tinuturuan mag-design.

Before I could process everything, daddy came in.

"Sandra," he said, looking at me seriously, "We need to talk."

Tiningnan ko siya. "Anong nangyari, daddy?"

"I’ve been meaning to tell you this for a while now," he started, "but I don’t approve of you pursuing a career in fashion design. I don’t want you to follow the same path your mom took."

Napa-tigil ako sa narinig ko. "But daddy, I want to be a designer. It’s my dream."

"No, Sandra," he said, shaking his head. "I can’t let you go down that road. You need to focus on something more stable. You need to work for me, in my company, as CEO—not as a designer."

I couldn’t help the frustration rising inside me. "But bakit? Ano bang masama sa pagiging designer?"

He sighed, looking at me seriously. "I’m not saying being a designer is wrong. It’s just... risky. I want you to have security, stability. As CEO of my company, you’ll have control over your future. It’s not about following in someone’s footsteps—it’s about building your own future."

Nag-isip ako saglit. I knew he meant well, pero iba pa rin yung gusto ko. "Daddy, hindi ko pa kayang mag-decide."

"I know you’re not ready," he said, his tone a bit softer now. "But I hope you understand. I’m doing this for you. I want you to have the best, and if you want to make something of yourself, then do it in my company. Not as a designer, but as CEO."

Pagpasok ni Sandra sa kwarto niya, biglang tumunog ang phone niya. "Hello?" sabi niya habang tinitingnan ang screen. Si Amila, obviously nag-aalala.

"Yo, naka-uwi ka na?" tanong ni Amila.

"Oo, kakauwi ko lang," sagot ni Sandra habang nauupo sa kama. "Kakausap ko lang si daddy."

"Ah, so anong nangyari? Pumayag na ba siya?" tanong ni Amila, curious.

Sandra sighed, tumingin muna sa picture ng mommy niya sa wall. "Hindi. Ang sinabi niya, hindi raw niya gusto na maging designer ako. Gusto niya magtrabaho ako sa company niya bilang CEO, hindi bilang designer."

"Wait, what? Seriously?" Amila sounded shocked. "No offense, pero feeling ko nagpe-preach lang siya. Parang nag-papanggap lang siya na concern siya, pero deep down... he just wants to control you."

Sandra's brows furrowed. "What do you mean?"

Amila continued, "I mean, look at what happened earlier sa shop, diba? Iniwan lang sa sahig yung tseke. He didn’t even care enough to hand it to you properly. Shouldn’t he be supporting you as a daughter, not as a worker?"

Sandra just stared at her phone, thinking about what Amila said. "I don’t know, Amila... maybe he’s right. Maybe I should just work for him and help out with the company."

"Girl, no." Amila was firm. "You deserve more than just being his employee. You have your own dreams, and you shouldn't let anyone, even your dad, make you feel like you’re not capable of doing something you love. Dapat siya ang magsuporta sa’yo, not treat you like you’re just a worker."

Sandra couldn’t help but smile a little. "Thanks, Amila. You’re right, I shouldn’t let him dictate my future. I’ll figure this out."

Habang nag-uusap sila, biglang naisip ni Amila ang isang idea. "Sandra, teka lang, I have an idea," sabi niya, parang may biglaang naisip. "Bakit di na lang tayo mag-rent ng car para makapunta ka sa event ng mga designers? Para hindi mo na kailangan dumaan sa daddy mo."

Sandra looked at her phone, thinking about it. "Wait, parang okay 'yan, Amila. Pero... paano kung malaman ni daddy?"

"Girl, hindi na ‘yun importante," sabi ni Amila, medyo seryoso. "I mean, the event is a big deal for you, diba? And if you're gonna let him stop you every time, hindi mo matutupad yung mga dreams mo. Hindi mo naman kailangan i-explain kay daddy, kasi ang importante, you're doing what makes you happy."

Sandra paused, considering Amila’s suggestion. "Hmm, oo nga, I deserve this moment. Hindi ko dapat hayaan na pigilan ako ni daddy."

"Exactly!" Amila said, parang excited. "Sige, mag-rent tayo ng car, and let’s go to that event. Show everyone na you can stand on your own. Hindi mo na kailangan ng approval from him all the time."

Sandra felt a sense of relief. "Okay, Amila. Sige, rent tayo ng car. I’m going to that event. I’m not gonna let anyone stop me."

Nakahanda na si Sandra, nakaayos na para sa event. Suot ang isang chic, sophisticated outfit na pinili ni Amila, at bitbit ang mga gamit niya. Habang binabaybay niya ang daan papunta sa event, nagsimulang kumidlat at umulan ng malakas.

"Shit, bakit ngayon pa umulan?" Sandra muttered, kinakabahan habang nagmamadali sa kalsada. "Pero hindi na ako pwedeng magpatalo, I need to be there."

Habang nagdadrive, biglang kumidlat nang malakas, at halos mawalan ng visibility sa kalsada dahil sa malakas na ulan. Nasa daan siya, at may biglaang tumawid na lalaki sa harap ng kanyang kotse. Inisip ni Sandra na baka hindi siya makita ng lalaki dahil sa dilim at ulan.

"Shit!" Sandra screamed, agad niyang pinreno ang kotse.

Sa kabutihang palad, tumigil siya nang makalapit na lang ang kotse sa lalaki, at muntik na siya madisgrasya. "Ang lapit na," Sandra thought, nanginginig pa sa takot. "I almost hit him."

Agad na bumangon ang lalaki at tinignan si Sandra. "You okay?" tanong ng lalaki na may pagka-worried din sa mukha niya.

Sandra was still catching her breath. "Yeah, I’m fine. You... you alright?"

The man nodded, smiling a little to ease the tension. "Yeah, just didn’t see the car coming. But you should be careful."

Sandra sighed, relieved that nothing happened. "Sorry about that, I didn’t expect someone to cross the street like that."

The guy just laughed lightly. "It’s alright. Just be more careful next time."

Sandra nodded, still shaken, but continued her drive to the event. "That was way too close."

Habang nag-papahinga si Sandra, napansin ng lalaki na parang nagmamadali siya. "You seem like you're in a rush," he said, a bit concerned.

Sandra was still a little shaken but tried to shake it off. "Yeah, I’m headed to a big event. I don’t want to be late."

The man looked at her for a second, then reached into his pocket. "Here," he said, handing her his phone. "Why don’t you give me your number? I’ll make sure you get to your event safe."

Sandra hesitated for a second but then thought, Why not? He seemed trustworthy enough. "Okay," she said, quickly typing her number into his phone.

Just as she finished, isang black SUV ang huminto sa harapan nila, at lumabas mula dito ang secretary ng lalaki. "Sir, the car’s ready," the secretary said.

"Alright, you go ahead and get in," the man said to Sandra. "My secretary will take care of your car. It’s gonna be repaired and we’ll call you when it’s ready."

Sandra looked at him, still a little unsure. "But... how will I get there?"

"You don’t have to worry," he said, with a reassuring smile. "We’ll take care of everything. Just get in the car, and we’ll make sure you get to the event on time."

Sandra couldn’t believe how lucky she was. "Thank you... I really appreciate this."

"No problem," the man said. "I’ve got your back. Now, let’s get you to that event."

Sandra nodded, got in the car, and the secretary drove her to the event while she felt a little relieved. At least now I can focus on the event... she thought as she settled in for the ride.

Pagdating ni Sandra sa venue ng event, agad siyang sinalubong ng guard na nagtatanong ng invitation. "Ma’am, may I see your invitation, please?"

Sandra’s heart sank as she realized she left her phone in the car. "Oh no..." she muttered, looking around. "Naiwan ko nga pala..."

Habang nag-iisip siya ng solusyon, naglingon-lingon siya at nakita ang Korean guy mula kahapon nasa bar. Sandra hesitated for a moment, then walked up to him, hoping he could help her out.

"Excuse me," Sandra started, a little nervous, "I left my phone in the car and... I don’t have my invitation with me. Could you help me get in? I really need to be inside."

The Korean guy raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised by her request. "Why would I?" he asked, his tone firm and almost challenging.

Sandra was taken aback by his response, but she quickly explained, "I know it’s a lot to ask, but I promise I’ll make it up to you. I just... don’t know what to do."

He looked at her for a moment, sizing her up, before his expression softened just a little. "Fine." Then he turned to the guard and continue to walk intrance

The guard hesitated, but after seeing the Korean guy’s serious look, he nodded and let Sandra through. "Alright, sir. You can go in."

Sandra couldn’t believe it. "Thank you so much," she said, relieved but still a little unsure about the whole situation but the Korean guy ignored her.

Habang hinahanap ni Sandra ang upuan niya, napansin niyang magkatabi sila ng Korean guy. Naglakad sila patungo sa kanilang mga upuan, at nang tiningnan niya ang harap, nakita niya si Cassandra Cruz—ang idol niyang fashion designer—na naglalakad sa harapan niya. Para siyang napako sa pwesto, dahil ang pinaka-iniidolo niyang designer ay nasa harap niya. Grabe, ito na yata ang pinakamagandang pagkakataon!

Bigla, may batang dumaan at aksidenteng nadumihan ang damit ni Cassandra. Sandra saw Cassandra’s eyes widen in surprise as she tried to wipe the stain off, but it was clear that she was frustrated. The young girl quickly excused herself and hurried off to the restroom.

Sandra, determined to help, followed her silently at a distance. When Cassandra entered the restroom, Sandra took a deep breath and mustered up the courage to speak.

"Excuse me, Ms. Cruz," Sandra started hesitantly, her voice soft but clear. "I saw what happened. I know this might be awkward, but... may I help you fix your dress?"

Cassandra turned around, a little surprised, but then she looked at Sandra and saw the genuine concern in her eyes. "Oh, thank you for offering, that’s very kind of you," Cassandra said with a small smile, clearly relieved.

Sandra immediately got to work, gently adjusting Cassandra’s outfit, making sure the stain would be as subtle as possible. While she worked, she couldn’t believe she was touching the clothes of the designer she admired so much. This is unreal, she thought.

When she was done, Cassandra took a step back and looked at her carefully. "You really fixed it," she said, impressed. "I thought it was a lost cause. You’re good at this."

Sandra blushed a little, flattered by the compliment. "Thank you! I’ve always been passionate about fashion, and I look up to you so much. You’ve inspired me to follow my dreams as a designer."

Cassandra smiled warmly and asked, "You look familiar... Do I know you?"

Sandra’s heart skipped a beat. Does she really recognize me? "I... I’m Alessandra Vivienne Montemayor, but you can call me Sandra," she said, nervously but proudly, as she introduced herself.

Nakita ni Cassandra ang pangalan ni Sandra at bigla siyang nag-isip. Montemayor... parang pamilyar ang apelyido na yun. Sandali siyang napaisip, at bigla niyang naalala ang isang bagay na matagal nang nakatago sa kanyang alaala. "Wait a minute," she said, her eyes widening. "Are you... the daughter of Catherine Montemayor?"

Sandra froze for a moment, shocked by the sudden mention of her mother’s name. "Yes," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. "She was my mom."

Cassandra's face softened, and a mix of nostalgia and emotion filled her eyes. "She was my best friend," Cassandra said, her voice filled with warmth and a hint of sadness. "I haven’t seen her in years, but I’ll never forget her. We used to work together on designs."

Sandra blinked in surprise, trying to process everything. "Wait... you mean, you and my mom...?" she started, but Cassandra smiled gently and nodded.

"Yes," Cassandra confirmed, her eyes looking at Sandra's outfit, still in awe. "You know, I designed that dress you're wearing with your mom. It was one of our collaborations. She had such an incredible sense of style, and she taught me so much."

Sandra felt a wave of emotions rush over her. Her mom, despite leaving when she was young, had made a huge impact on the fashion world. "I didn’t know that," Sandra said softly, looking down at the dress she was wearing. "I’m... I’m honored to wear something you both worked on."

Cassandra smiled warmly at Sandra, clearly moved. "Your mom was a brilliant designer, Sandra. I’m glad she passed on her talent to you." She paused for a moment, then added, "And I’m sure she would be proud of you, following in her footsteps."

Sandra felt a lump form in her throat. "I really hope so," she said quietly, her heart swelling with pride. "I’ve always wanted to follow her legacy, even though my dad doesn’t want me to be a designer."

Pagbalik ni Sandra sa kanilang upuan kasama si Cassandra, medyo nakahinga na siya nang maluwag. Grabe, hindi ko pa rin ma-process na nakausap ko siya. As she sat back, she felt like she was floating on air from the overwhelming experience. But before she could even fully relax, biglang dumating ang mga guards at nilapitan sila.

"Excuse me, miss," sabi ng isa sa mga guards, ang tono ay seryoso. "May nag-report na wala kayong invitation at may suspetsa kaming ikaw ay tresspassing dito."

Sandra's eyes widened in shock. "What?! I-I have an invitation!" she quickly said, looking for her phone. But then she realized—Naiwan ko nga pala ang phone ko sa car!

Habang nakaupo si Sandra sa isang sulok ng office, abala sa pagpapakalma ng sarili, biglang dumating ang mga guards na nagpasabi sa kanya na kailangan siyang makausap sa office. Bakit ganito? Sandra thought, trying to stay calm as she followed the guards.

Pagdating niya sa office, naupo siya at naghintay nang medyo kabado. Nasa isip lang niya, Sana hindi magka-problema pa. Ngunit bago pa siya makapag-isip ng kahit ano, biglang pumasok ang lalaki—yung Korean guy kanina na tumulong sa kanya makapasok.

Sandra’s eyes widened in surprise. "Ikaw... ikaw ang nag-report, no?" she asked, clearly caught off guard by his sudden appearance.

The Korean guy smirked, and for a moment, there was a flash of something calculating in his eyes. "You’re asking the wrong question," he replied coldly, his voice deeper than before. Sandra felt a chill run down her spine.

Habang nag-uusap sila, biglang tumunog ang phone ng Korean guy. Tinignan niya ito at sumagot ng mabilis, ang mukha niya seryoso. "Yes... Yes, I understand," he said briefly, then hung up. He turned to Sandra with a more intense look. "You’re more connected than you think," he said, his eyes scanning her face. "Cassandra Cruz... your mother’s old friend... you’ve got a chance to be close to her, right?"

Sandra, confused and still processing what was happening, looked at him. "What do you mean? I don’t understand."

The Korean guy leaned in slightly, his tone turning more serious. "Here’s the thing... my company needs to work closely with Cassandra’s. But, we’ve had a hard time getting her to cooperate. I need you to help me get closer to her. If you can make that happen... I’ll make sure you won’t have any problems here." His eyes locked with hers, and Sandra could sense the pressure in his words.

"Wait," Sandra said, her heart racing. "Are you... threatening me?"

The Korean guy’s expression remained unchanged. "Not a threat. An offer," he said. "Help me, and I’ll clear your name. Otherwise, well..." He paused, letting the tension hang in the air. "You’ll be in a tough spot."

Sandra was stunned. Hindi ko maintindihan... bakit ako? She looked at him, her mind spinning. So this is what this is about?

"I don’t know if I can do that," Sandra said quietly, her voice shaking slightly. "I don’t want to use people just for my benefit."

The Korean guy smirked again, sensing her hesitation. "You don’t have a choice. Either you help me, or you’ll be stuck with nothing. I’m sure you don’t want that, right?"

Nang magtagal ang katahimikan, biglang nagsalita ang Korean guy. "By the way, I forgot to introduce myself properly. I’m Julius de los Reyes," he said, extending his hand towards Sandra.

Sandra looked at him, her confusion still evident in her eyes, but she hesitated for a moment before shaking his hand. "Sandra Montemayor," she said, still processing everything.

Julius gave her a small, knowing smile. "I know. We’ve met before, haven’t we?" he said, his tone almost playful, though there was a hint of something more serious behind it.

Sandra frowned, trying to recall when they might have met. "Wait, but... aren’t you Korean? I mean, your last name... isn’t that Filipino?"

Julius paused for a moment, a slight shift in his expression, before responding. "Ah, yes, you’re right. My Korean name is Jung Haejin." He leaned back, crossing his arms. I don’t need to explain my self to you

Habang nag-uusap si Sandra at Julius, biglang pumasok ang isang guard, mukha itong seryoso at may hawak na dokumento. "Miss, may reklamo po kami, at may posibilidad na ma-filean kayo ng demanda," sabi ng guard, na may matigas na boses.

Sandra’s heart skipped a beat. Ano? Ano nangyari? Pero bago pa siya makapagsalita, mabilis na hinablot ni Julius ang braso ni Sandra at iniiwas siya mula sa guard.

"She was my girlfriend," Julius said, his voice calm but firm, as he stood in front of Sandra, shielding her from the guard. Sandra’s eyes widened in shock. What is he doing?

The guard paused for a moment, visibly confused. "P-pero..." sabi nito, naguguluhan. "Ang sabi nila—"

"She’s with me," Julius interrupted smoothly, looking at the guard with a level of authority that silenced him. "If you have any issues, we’ll sort it out later. But for now, she’s with me."

Sandra stood frozen, still shocked by Julius' sudden claim. Girlfriend? What the heck?

Wala na siyang magawa kundi sumunod nang maglakad si Julius papalabas ng office, hinawakan siya sa kamay. Habang naglalakad sila, natanaw nila si Cassandra na naglalakad papunta sa kanila. Nang makita siya, nagulat si Cassandra at ngumiti, lumapit agad sa kanila.

"Oh my gosh, you two look cute together!" Cassandra said, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Are you a couple?"

Sandra’s mind raced. Oh my gosh, this is not how I expected this to go... She was about to speak, about to tell Cassandra na hindi sila mag-jowa, pero hindi siya binigyan ng pagkakataon ni Julius.

"Yes, we are," Julius answered with a confident smile, interrupting Sandra before she could say anything.

Sandra was speechless. She was torn between wanting to correct the misunderstanding and being completely taken aback by Julius' boldness. What is he doing?

Cassandra looked at Sandra, eyes narrowing slightly but with a curious smile. "Well, it’s nice to meet you, Julius. You seem like you’d be a perfect match for Sandra."

Sandra didn’t know what to say, so she just smiled awkwardly, unsure of what to feel. Ano na ba itong nangyayari?

"Thank you for your patience and understanding. Good things take time, and we appreciate you sticking with us. Stay tuned, and we promise it will be worth the wait!"

POV. Mateo Santiago (The man earlier in the rain.)

While Mateo’s secretary was driving, the car was pretty quiet, but the secretary couldn't help but ask, "Sir, if I may... is Miss Sandra the one you've been searching for all this time?"

Mateo, now with a more relaxed vibe, glanced at the secretary and smiled a little. "Yes, she is," he replied in a calm tone. "I’ve found her. Been looking for her for so long, but now, she’s here."

The secretary noticed the change in Mateo's mood. "Sir, I’m glad to hear that," the secretary said, still slightly confused but relieved to see Mateo's lighter attitude.

Mateo stared out the window, lost in thought for a moment. "I honestly didn’t expect to find her this way... but I’m glad she’s here," he added, feeling a sense of calm.

POV. Julius

At the big company, a group of executives were waiting for their CEO, Julius. A sleek, luxurious car came to a stop in front of the massive company building, and the people around didn’t realize that Julius was the one who had arrived. The driver opened the door, and Julius stepped out, walking confidently toward the conference room with papers in hand and a business-like look that said he was ready for anything.

Dressed in a sharp suit, he exuded the kind of presence that made it clear he was the CEO, and all the executives who were waiting stood up quickly to show their respect. Julius had that aura, the kind of boss you just couldn’t disappoint.

Pagpasok ni Julius sa conference room, agad niyang naramdaman ang tensyon sa paligid. Tahimik ang lahat ng executives na nakaupo sa mahabang lamesa, habang ang mga report at graph ay naka-project sa malaking screen.

"Alright," sabi ni Julius habang naupo sa head chair, "what’s the issue this time? I need answers, not excuses."

Tumayo ang isa sa mga senior executives. "Sir, the main problem is the unsold stock. Despite the quality of the designs, they aren’t aligning with the current market demand. Customers are shifting towards sustainable and personalized fashion, and our inventory is being left behind."

Nagtaas ng kilay si Julius, ang boses niya ay matigas. "So, you're telling me we’re sitting on a pile of outdated designs? How did we let this happen?"

Sumagot ang isa pang executive, medyo kinakabahan. "Sir, we underestimated the market trends. The rapid shift to sustainability and customization caught us off-guard. We focused too much on volume and less on adapting to what customers actually want."

Tumango si Julius, ang mukha niya ay seryoso at hindi maipinta. "This isn't just a financial issue. This is a reputation problem. Our brand stands for innovation, not complacency. How do we fix this mess?, the chairman will be frustrated if he will hear about this.

Nagtinginan ang mga executives, tila walang makapagsabi ng konkretong solusyon. Isang younger executive ang naglakas-loob na magsalita. "We could try offering discounts to move the old stock, sir. At least we’d recover some of the losses."

Napabuntong-hininga si Julius. "Discounts? That’s not a strategy; that’s desperation. We can’t cheapen the brand just to clean up this mess."

Tumayo siya at lumakad sa paligid, ang mga kamay niya ay nasa likod niya. "Listen, this company was built on forward-thinking ideas, not chasing after trends. If we want to survive this, we need to pivot. I don’t care how hard it is—figure out how to repurpose or reinvent that stock. Collaborate with younger designers, tap into influencers, find new markets. I need real solutions on my desk by tomorrow morning."

Habang tahimik na naglalakad si Julius sa hallway papunta sa kanyang opisina, halatang malalim ang iniisip niya. Nakatingin siya sa tablet niya, binabasa ang mga sales report, pero halatang hindi siya natutuwa. Napansin ito ng kanyang secretary, si Claire, na laging nakasunod sa kanya.

"Sir," sabi ni Claire habang maingat na sumasabay sa lakad ni Julius, "if I may suggest something?"

Tumigil si Julius at tumingin kay Claire, ang kilay niya bahagyang nakataas. "What is it, Claire? I don’t have all day."

Huminga ng malalim si Claire bago magsalita. "Sir, Cassandra Cruz could help the company."

Napakunot-noo si Julius. "Cassandra Cruz? The designer? She’s at the top of the industry right now. You really think we can just walk up to her and ask for help? That’s not how it works, Claire."

Ngumiti si Claire ng bahagya. "I know, sir. But hear me out. Cassandra Cruz has a strong influence in the fashion world. She could completely revamp our designs and attract a new wave of customers. Plus, her advocacy for sustainable fashion aligns perfectly with what the market demands now."

Tumango-tango si Julius, pero halata pa rin ang duda sa mukha niya. "And how do you propose we even approach her? Last time I checked, Cassandra Cruz doesn’t just collaborate with anyone."

Nagpatuloy si Claire, mas kumpiyansa na ngayon. "Sir, Cassandra is best friends with Catherine Montemayor—Sandra Montemayor’s mother. If we can get Sandra Montemayor to talk to Cassandra, we might have a chance."

Sandaling natahimik si Julius, iniisip ang posibilidad. "Sandra Montemayor," ulit niya sa sarili, halatang nagmumuni-muni.

"Yes, sir," dagdag ni Claire. "Sandra is her daughter, and I’m sure Cassandra would at least consider helping us if Sandra makes the introduction. Plus, Sandra is talented in her own right. She has the potential to contribute something fresh to the company."

Huminga nang malalim si Julius, hinilot ang sintido niya. "So, you're saying I should approach Sandra Montemayor, use her connection with Cassandra, and somehow convince them both to help our company? Sounds like a gamble, Claire."

Ngumiti si Claire. "It might be, sir. But sometimes, the biggest risks lead to the biggest rewards. And honestly, sir, do we have any better options right now?"

Tumango si Julius, na para bang napipilitan tanggapin ang sitwasyon. "Fine. Let’s set up a plan to approach Sandra. But make sure everything is subtle. I don’t want her thinking we’re just using her."

Ngumiti si Claire at tumango. "Understood, sir. I’ll handle the preparations."

Habang nagpatuloy sa paglalakad si Julius, halatang conflicted siya. "Sandra Montemayor," bulong niya sa sarili. "Let’s see if you can really save this company."

Habang nakaupo si Julius sa kanyang opisina, nakatutok siya sa screen ng kanyang computer, sinusuri ang mga graphs at data ng company performance. Tahimik ang paligid maliban sa tunog ng pagtipa niya sa keyboard. Biglang bumukas ang pinto, at pumasok si Claire na hawak ang isang folder.

"Sir," sabi ni Claire habang nilalapag ang folder sa mesa ni Julius. "Here’s the information you requested about Sandra Montemayor."

Agad na kinuha ni Julius ang folder, binuksan ito, at binasa ang nakasaad. Tumigil ang tingin niya sa isang linya, at bahagyang kumunot ang noo niya.

"Sandra Vivienne Montemayor," binasa niya nang malakas. "Graduated from DLSU-D, degree in Fashion Design. Her mother is Catherine Montemayor... and her father..." Natigilan si Julius nang makita ang pangalan ng ama.

"Park Jihoon?" tanong niya, tumaas ang kilay habang tumingin kay Claire. "Are you saying she’s connected to that Park Jihoon? The chairman?"

Tumango si Claire, medyo hesitant. "Yes, sir. Based on my research, Park Jihoon is listed as her father. It’s highly likely that it’s the same person, given his ties to the fashion industry."

Napabuntong-hininga si Julius habang nakasandal sa kanyang upuan. "This complicates things. If her father is Park Jihoon, why would she even be struggling to make a name for herself? He practically owns half the industry."

"That’s what’s strange, sir," sagot ni Claire. "It seems like there’s some sort of estrangement between them. According to what I gathered, Sandra’s father doesn’t support her career in fashion. That could explain why she’s been working independently."

Tahimik na nag-isip si Julius, iniisip ang bagong impormasyon. "So, not only is Sandra Montemayor connected to Cassandra Cruz, but she’s also the daughter of one of the most powerful men in the industry. Interesting."

Tumango si Claire. "This could be an opportunity, sir. If you play your cards right, Sandra could be the key to getting Cassandra Cruz onboard and possibly gaining leverage with Park Jihoon."

Napaisip si Julius, hawak pa rin ang folder habang nakatingin sa bintana ng kanyang opisina. "If that’s the case, we need to approach this carefully. I can’t afford to mess this up."

"Understood, sir," sabi ni Claire habang lumalabas na ng opisina. "Let me know if you need anything else."

Habang nag-uusap si Julius at ang kanyang secretary na si Claire tungkol sa impormasyon ni Sandra, tahimik ang opisina maliban sa pag-uusap nila. Biglang bumukas ang pinto nang hindi man lang kumakatok.

Nakita nilang pumasok ang Chairman na si Park Jihoon, may seryosong expression sa mukha ngunit may bahagyang ngisi. "Looks like you’ve done your homework," sabi ni Chairman Jihoon habang naglalakad papasok at tumayo sa harap ng desk ni Julius.

Napatigil si Julius, ngunit hindi siya nagpahalata ng kaba. Pinanatili niya ang mahinahong expression. Sinulyapan niya si Claire at bahagyang sinenyasan itong umalis.

"Excuse me, sir," sabi ni Claire habang mabilis na kinuha ang folder at lumabas ng opisina, isinara ang pinto nang marahan.

Ngayon, sila na lang dalawa sa silid. Tumahimik nang saglit, naririnig lang ang bahagyang tunog ng aircon.

"So," sabi ni Chairman Jihoon, tumingin nang direkta kay Julius. "You’re digging into my daughter’s life?"

Nag-adjust si Julius sa kanyang upuan, pinapanatili ang mahinahong tono. "I wouldn’t call it digging, Chairman. I’d say I’m... doing necessary research. After all, she’s connected to Cassandra Cruz, and that connection could greatly benefit our company."

"Ah," tumaas ang kilay ni Jihoon habang tumatawa nang mahina. "So you’re using my daughter now? Interesting strategy, Julius. But tell me—do you even know who you’re dealing with?"

"I know enough," sagot ni Julius, diretso ang tingin. "I know she’s talented, determined, and connected. And I know you’ve been keeping your distance from her."

Tumigil si Jihoon sa pagtawa at naging seryoso ang mukha. Lumapit siya sa desk ni Julius, bahagyang yumuko at tumingin nang malalim sa kanya. "You don’t know half the story, Julius. Be careful. If you mess with her... you’re messing with me."

Napatingin si Julius kay Jihoon, pero hindi siya nagpakita ng takot. "Noted, Chairman. But if you don’t mind me asking—if she’s your daughter, why aren’t you supporting her dreams?"

Tumayo nang diretso si Jihoon, binaba ang tingin sa kanya, at nagsalita nang malamig, "That’s none of your business. Focus on your company, Julius. Don’t get too involved in things you don’t understand."

Scene: Julius’s Office

Habang paalis na si Chairman Jihoon, biglang tumigil ito sa tapat ng pinto. Tinalikuran niya si Julius, ngunit narinig ang malamig niyang boses.

"Let me make this clear, Julius," sabi ni Jihoon, bahagyang lumingon pabalik. "If this information about my daughter leaks out, or if it’s used in any way that damages her reputation—or mine—I will make sure you’re removed from your position as CEO. Permanently."

Tahimik si Julius sandali, ngunit hindi nagbago ang kanyang postura. Tumayo siya mula sa kanyang upuan at humakbang palapit sa desk, inilapag ang kanyang mga kamay dito habang diretso niyang tinitigan ang Chairman.

"Chairman," sagot ni Julius, kalmado ngunit puno ng confidence. "I’ve worked too hard to get here, and I’m not the kind of man who plays reckless games. If there’s one thing you can trust about me, it’s that I don’t make moves without a strategy."

Tumaas ang kilay ni Jihoon, tila nagulat sa tapang ni Julius. "You seem very sure of yourself."

Naglakad si Julius papunta sa harap ng desk, halos pantay na sila ng distansya ng Chairman. Tumitig siya nang diretso kay Jihoon, ang kanyang aura hindi nagpatinag. "Confidence isn’t just about knowing your worth. It’s about knowing your opponent, too. And with all due respect, sir, I’m not afraid of you."

Napangisi si Jihoon, bagama’t bahagya itong nagpipigil ng galit. "Bold words, Julius. Let’s see if that confidence holds up when the stakes get higher."

Walang sinagot si Julius, nanatili ang kanyang matalim na tingin sa Chairman. Ang tahimik na tensyon sa pagitan nila ay parang blade na tumatalim sa bawat segundo.

Pagkatapos ng ilang sandali, tumalikod na si Jihoon at naglakad palabas ng opisina. Hindi siya muling lumingon, ngunit naramdaman pa rin ang kanyang presensya kahit na nagsara na ang pinto.

Napahinga nang malalim si Julius. Tumalikod siya at tinignan ang city view mula sa malaking glass window ng kanyang opisina, muling bumulong sa sarili, "Let the games begin."

Nagpapahinga ako sa kama dahil sobrang pagod na pagod sa mga nangyari. Dagdag pa doon, yung lalaki na si Julius—nakakainis talaga.

Habang nagpapahinga, bigla na lang may kumatok sa pintuan ko. Ang lakas ng katok, parang may emergency. Pagbukas ko ng pinto, nakita ko si Amila, na nagmamadali at may halong kaba.

"Shucks, patay!" sabi ni Amila, at agad akong tinanong, "Bakit hindi ka sumasagot sa mga tawag ko?"

"Eh... yun na nga. May nangyari kasi kahapon… medyo na-damage ko yung vehicle… tapos… hindi ko na kuha yung phone number niya." Sagot ko, na medyo nag-aalala at hindi ko na alam kung anong gagawin ko.

"Sandra naman eh, bakit? Eh, yung phone number mo, binigay mo ba? Maghintay na lang tayo na tumawag siya." Tanong ni Amila, naguguluhan din sa nangyari.

"Yun na nga… yung phone ko, naiwan ko rin sa kotse… sorry." Sagot ko, hindi ko talaga alam kung anong gagawin ko.

"Shit!.. Ano na ngayon yan?" wika ni Amila, na parang nawawala na sa kanyang isip. Napakamot na lang ako sa ulo ko at pareho kami ni Amila na hindi alam kung anong gagawin. Isa pa, yung kotse, mahal na 'yon kung babayaran namin. Hindi ko naman kayang humingi ng pera kay dad, eh ang cellphone ko nga Android lang.

"Sige, ganito na lang. Pahiram muna ako ng cash, babayaran kita, promise." Wika ni Amila, na may pag-asa pa.

"Sure. Teka lang, nasa baba yung bag ko." Sagot ko, sabay tumayo at nagmamadaling bumaba.

Habang pababa ako, bigla akong natapilok at may lalaking sumalo sa akin. Nagulat ako, at pareho kaming nahawakan nang mahigpit.

"Are you okay?" Tanong niya, na may kabang hindi ko maipaliwanag.

Nag-eye contact kami, at ang bilis ng tibok ng puso ko. Ngunit biglang narinig namin ang tunog ng kotse ni dad sa garahe. Paglabas ko sa pintuan, nakita ko si Julius na bumaba mula sa sasakyan. Sa likod niya, si dad, na naglalakad papunta sa amin.

Agad akong binitawan ng lalaki, at lumapit si dad.

Pagkakita ni dad kay Julius at sa amin, humarap siya at may halong dismayo sa boses niya.

"May boyfriend ka na pala," wika ni dad, ang tono ng boses niya ay may pagka-disappointed. "Dinala mo pa sa bahay."

Bigla akong tinigilan, parang na-freeze. Ang puso ko mabilis ang tibok, at hindi ko alam kung anong sasabihin.

“No, Dad, he’s not. I don’t know kung anong ginagawa niya dito…” Sagot ko, naguguluhan, at ang tingin ko kay Julius ay parang hindi ko na rin alam kung anong nangyayari.

Biglang bumaba si Amila mula sa hagdan, at saka ko lang naisip, Siya pala ‘yung lalaki na lumigtas sa akin noong araw ng event. Saka ko lang na-realize na sa kanya ko pala ibinigay yung susi ng kotse at pati yung phone ko. Agad niyang inabot sa akin ang phone at sinabi na nagpunta siya rito upang ibigay ang mga iyon.

“Thank you,” wika ko sa lalaking yun, sabay abot ng susi Amila. Pero bago pa man siya makaalis, tinanong siya ni Daddy.

“Sandali,” tanong ni Daddy, “Tungkol sa sasakyan, saan mo nakuha ‘yon?”

Napalunok ako ng malalim. Hindi naman ako binigyan ni Daddy ng sasakyan, at hindi rin niya alam na marunong akong mag-drive. Pati na rin yung event ng idol ko, si Cassandra Cruz, hindi niya alam na nagpunta ako roon. Malalagot ako nito kung malaman niya.

Habang nag-iisip ako, parang biglang sumakit ang ulo ko, at sa tingin ko, mukhang malapit na akong magka-problema. Kung malaman ni Daddy na hindi ko lang basta iniiwasan ang mga utos niya, kundi ang mga bagay na hindi niya alam, baka lalo pa akong mapagalitan.

Si Daddy, nakatayo sa harap ko, ang mga mata niyang puno ng disapproval. Malamig at matigas ang tono ng boses niya nang magsalita siya.

"Sandra," he started, "What's going on with you? Why didn't you tell me you knew how to drive? And the car, where did you get it?"

Hindi ko alam kung paano magsisimula. Parang nanlambot ako sa mga tanong niya. Tumingin ako kay Amila, at siya na lang ang naging lakas ko para magsalita.

"Uhm, Dad... hindi ko po kasi naisip na importante, eh. Actually, yung sasakyan po, sa kaibigan ko po, si Amila." Sagot ko, kahit na kinakabahan ako.

"Friend?" he asked, looking at Amila. "She's just helping you, and you're doing this? You should be responsible for your own decisions, not relying on others like this."

Hindi ko na siya pinatagal, sabay sagot ko, "Hindi po, Dad! Hindi po ganun. Hindi ko po intention na magtago, and I didn’t want to be a burden. Marunong po ako mag-drive, and I just went to the event to see my idol." Parang tumigil ang mundo ko habang sinabi ko ‘yon.

"Event? You’re doing this on your own, without even telling me?" he replied, clearly frustrated. "I never expected you to act like this, so independent, without even consulting me first."

Bumuntong-hininga ako, parang hindi ko na kayang magtago pa. Tumigil ako sandali, tumingin kay Amila, and even though I knew Daddy might not understand, I decided to speak my mind.

"Dad, naiintindihan ko po kung galit kayo," wika ko, "pero I just want to pursue what I really want, and be successful on my own terms."

Pumayag na ako, kahit na nararamdaman ko ang bigat ng galit at disappointment sa mukha ni Daddy. But I told myself, I need to show him that I can do this, that I’m not afraid to stand up for my decisions.

Before I could speak again, Amila intervened. "Sir, I’m sorry po, but please let me explain. I didn’t mean to intrude, but just to clarify, we didn’t meet under any wrong circumstances. I was just helping her out."

"Dahil lang ba dun, tutulungan niyo na siya?" he replied, his face full of anger and disappointment. "I can’t accept these kinds of decisions from you, Sandra. This is really disappointing."

Habang umakyat si Daddy sa taas, nagdesisyon akong paalisin na sina Amila at ang lalaki. Hindi ko na kayang makipag-usap pa, at alam kong gusto na nilang umalis. Bago sila tuluyang umalis, nagpromise ako kay Amila na babawi ako. Naiwan kami ni Julius sa labas, at naramdaman ko ang bigat ng mga nangyari sa buong araw.

Habang nagmo-mokmok ako sa garden, kung saan dati kami laging nagkakasama ni Mommy, napansin ko ang isang bote ng Mogu Mogu sa tabi ko. Favorite ko ‘to, kaya’t tumingin ako sa paligid. Bigla na lang ay inabot ito sa akin ni Julius. Hindi ko alam kung anong sasabihin, pero andun siya, tahimik, at handang makinig.

"Here, It Might help a bit," Julius said gently, looking at me with a soft expression.

Naramdaman ko na parang may pwersang nag-pull sa dibdib ko—parang gusto ko lang mag-isa at hindi na magpaliwanag. Pero may mga pagkakataon talagang may mga tao na nandiyan para suportahan ka kahit hindi mo inaasahan.

"Thanks, Julius..." sagot ko, medyo nahirapan pa akong ngumiti. "Kasi... hindi ko na alam kung anong nangyari, ang daming things na hindi ko kayang kontrolin, tapos... parang hindi ko na kayang magpaliwanag kay Daddy."

Tumabi siya sa akin at dahan-dahan niyang nilagay ang bote sa aking kamay. "It’s okay. I’m not here to judge you. Sometimes things happen, and you just have to deal with it.”

Hindi ko alam kung paano, pero parang nawala ang kaba ko kahit na saglit. Tinutulungan ako ni Julius, hindi para magbigay ng solusyon, kundi para lang naroroon siya.

Habang iniinom ko yung Mogu Mogu, medyo nahirapan pa akong ngumiti, pero at least nakaramdam ako ng konting ginhawa. Hindi ko naman inaasahan, pero habang tinatanaw ko ang mga halaman sa garden, narinig ko si Julius na nagsalita.

"Hey, I just want to let you know," sabi niya, medyo may ngiti sa labi, "that Mogu Mogu’s not free, ha? In exchange, I need a favor."

Tumingin ako sa kanya, medyo nalito. "Favor? Anong favor?"

"Well..." nagsimula siya, "all I need is for you to help me get closer to Cassandra Cruz. Just... you know, a little intro, mahina lang." Medyo nahihiya siyang nagsalita, pero halatang may kinikimkim na plano.

Nagulat ako at muntik na akong mabilaukan sa ininom ko. "What? Really?" Hindi ko alam kung anong magiging reaksyon ko. "Tapos na ‘yon, Julius? Pabor lang? Hindi ba’t medyo malaki ‘yon?"

Tiningnan niya ako, nagtatangka pa rin na magpatawa, pero parang seryoso na. "Yeah, I know it sounds like a big ask, but it’s a small thing for you, right? It’ll help me out, promise."

Nakaramdam ako ng konting kaba. Cassandra Cruz was a big name, and I didn’t know how that would work out, but the thought of Julius asking me made me stop for a moment.

"Fine... I’ll think about it, pero hindi ko alam kung anong connection ko kay Cassandra." sagot ko, kahit medyo nanghihirapan, pero dahil sa sitwasyon, parang wala akong magagawa kundi magsabi ng oo.

Ngumiti siya, parang tuwang-tuwa sa plano niya. "Thanks, Sandra. I knew I could count on you."

Habang tinitingnan ko si Julius, parang naiisip ko na ang buhay ko ay magiging mas komplikado pa kung magpapatuloy ito. Pero wala na akong magagawa, andiyan na siya, at kailangan kong balansehin ang lahat ng nangyari.

Pagkagising ko kinabukasan, kinuha ko agad yung phone ko na nasa bedside table. Napansin ko agad ang isang missed call. Isa lang naman ang palaging napapalampas kong tawag—kay Daddy. Pero hindi ito galing sa kanya. Sa halip, ito’y isang unknown number.

Napaisip ako saglit, pero hindi na ako nagdalawang-isip at tinawagan ito pabalik. Pag-ring pa lang ng phone, parang kinabahan ako. Biglang may sumagot na boses sa kabilang linya.

“Hello?”

Familiar yung boses. Napakunot ang noo ko. “Uh, sino ‘to?”

“Ikaw ang tumawag. Dapat ako ang magtanong, hindi ba?” sagot ng lalaki, medyo playful ang tono.

Biglang pumasok sa isip ko kung sino. “Wait... Mateo?!”

“Yes, it’s me,” sagot niya.

Doon ko lang naalala lahat—siya pala yung lalaking nagligtas sa akin sa ulan, yung nagdala ng phone at susi ng kotse sa bahay. Naramdaman ko agad yung hiya na parang gumapang sa buong katawan ko.

“Oh my gosh, I’m so sorry! And thank you pala for fixing the car. Sobrang nakakahiya talaga lahat ng nangyari kahapon...”

Mateo chuckled on the other end of the line. “It’s fine. I didn’t mind. You seemed like you were having a rough day.”

“Yeah, understatement of the year,” sagot ko, rolling my eyes at myself. “I hope I didn’t cause you too much trouble, lalo na nung pinagbintangan pa kita na trespassing.”

“Not at all,” sabi niya, halatang trying to make light of the situation. “But you do owe me a proper apology, maybe over lunch?”

Napangiti ako kahit nahihiya pa rin. “You know what? I can do better. Lunch on me, para mabawi ko lahat ng kahihiyan kahapon.”

Mateo laughed softly. “Deal. Text me the time and place.”

Pagkatapos naming mag-usap, nag-text ako kay Mateo ng address kung saan kami magla-lunch. Simple lang yung lugar na napili ko, hindi masyadong sosyal para casual lang. Pagdating namin doon, natuwa naman ako kasi parang chill lang siya. Parang hindi siya yung tipo ng rich guy na sobrang uptight.

Habang kumakain kami, nagkuwentuhan kami tungkol sa buhay-buhay. Mateo was surprisingly easy to talk to. Nakaka-vibe, kumbaga. Tapos bigla siyang may nasabi na nagpahinto sa akin sa pagnguya.

“You know, you remind me so much of someone I used to know. I remember this girl… she always loved purple. And her mom made the best puto bumbong.”

Napataas ang kilay ko. “Wait... paano mo alam ‘yan?”

Mateo leaned back on his chair, a small smile on his face. “Because I used to visit her house all the time. Her mom was the sweetest, and every time she made puto bumbong, I was there. That girl’s name was Alessandra.”

Napanganga ako. “What? No way…”

“I’m serious,” sagot niya, halatang nage-enjoy sa reaksyon ko. “You were my childhood friend, Sandra. I’m Mateo—the kid who kept eating all your mom’s cooking.”

Bigla kong naalala ang lahat. Si Mateo. Palagi siyang nasa bahay dati. Siya yung laging kumakain ng puto bumbong ni Mommy. Siya yung laging pinapagalitan ni Daddy kasi lagi siyang andun tuwing busy ako sa homework.

“Oh my gosh! Ikaw nga!” Napahampas ako sa mesa, hindi makapaniwala.

Mateo chuckled. “Took you long enough to recognize me. Ang tagal na rin kasi, Sandra. You’ve changed a lot.”

Napangiti ako. “Ikaw rin. I mean, look at you. Hindi na ikaw yung batang tumatakas sa bahay namin para lang maglaro.”

“It’s good to see you again, Sandra. Honestly, I never thought we’d cross paths like this.”

Ngayon lang parang nag-sync lahat sa utak ko. Mateo wasn’t just some random guy who helped me out. He was someone who knew me from way back—someone who knew my mom, who shared memories I thought I’d forgotten.

Habang nag-uusap kami ni Mateo at nagla-lunch, nagiging mas komportable na ang usapan namin. Napapaisip pa nga ako kung paano kami nagkahiwalay bilang childhood friends. Pero habang tumatawa si Mateo sa isang kwento ko, biglang bumukas ang pinto ng restaurant. Napatingin ako at hindi ko inaasahan kung sino ang nakita ko.

Si Julius. Pero hindi siya mag-isa—may kasama siyang babae.

Agad akong tumingin sa aking plato, hoping hindi niya ako mapansin. Pero mukhang busy siya sa pakikipag-usap sa kasama niya habang pumipili ng table. Mateo noticed my sudden change in expression.

“Everything okay?” tanong niya.

“Uh, yeah, nothing. Just someone I know,” sagot ko, trying to sound casual.

Pero hindi pa doon nagtatapos ang gulo. Sa kabilang table, biglang dumating yung guard mula sa event ni Cassandra Cruz.

“Miss Montemayor?” tanong niya, habang papalapit sa table namin.

Napalingon ako, halatang kinakabahan. “Yes, why?”

Ngumisi ang guard. “So… naghiwalay na ba kayo nung boyfriend mo?”

Napakunot ang noo ni Mateo. “Boyfriend?”

Parang na-freeze ako sa upuan ko. Hindi ako makasagot. Meanwhile, narinig ni Julius yung sinabi ng guard at bigla siyang tumayo mula sa table niya. Agad siyang lumapit sa amin, halatang hindi niya inaasahan na magkikita kami rito.

“Excuse me,” sabi niya, tumigil sa harap ng table namin.

“Ah, Julius…” nagsimula ako, pero hindi ko alam kung ano ang susunod kong sasabihin.

Hindi niya ako pinatapos. Agad niyang kinuha ang kamay ko, causing Mateo to stiffen in his seat. “Can I talk to you for a moment, Sandra?”

Napatingin ako kay Mateo, na halatang naguguluhan sa nangyayari. “Uh… Mateo, excuse me lang sandali, okay?”

Tumayo ako, pero hindi ko magawang bawiin ang kamay ko kay Julius. Dinala niya ako sa gilid, malayo-layo sa table namin.

“Anong ginagawa mo dito?” tanong ko, binaba ang boses para hindi makalikha ng eksena.

“Anong ginagawa ko dito? Ikaw itong nagpapapansin!” sagot niya, mukhang galit pero trying to keep his composure.

“Excuse me? Paano ako nagpapapansin? Nagla-lunch lang ako!” sagot ko, hindi na napigilang tumaas ang boses.

“Huwag kang gumawa ng eksena,” Julius hissed. “Kung malaman ni Cassandra na nagsinungaling ako tungkol sa atin, masisira ang reputasyon ko.”

Napatingin ako sa kanya, napapaisip kung anong klaseng tao talaga si Julius. “So… lahat ng ‘to para lang sa image mo?”

“Just play along, Sandra. Please,” sabi niya, hinigpitan ang hawak sa kamay ko.

Wala na akong nagawa. Nagbalik kami sa table, hawak pa rin ni Julius ang kamay ko. Mateo was staring, his expression unreadable.

“Mateo, pasensya ka na,” sabi ko, trying to keep my voice steady. “This is… Julius.”

Mateo gave him a curt nod but didn’t say anything. Julius, on the other hand, put on his best charming smile. “Nice to meet you,” sabi niya.