CHAPTER 1- RETURN OF MRS. ROMANOVA

Ive been here in US for 8 years, living the life I've always been dreaming of. I was also the CEO and owner of Lakambini Fashion Design for 8 continuos years here abroad and iam happy that my fashion designs were worn by several famous celebrities and models, and speaking of model iam a highest paid fashion model here abroad for 5 years. I wouldn't be a model without my designs. I was just aiming to spread my work but little did i know that one of the modeling agency notice me and how i design clothes, so they ask me if i want to become one of their models and I had no guts to decline it, who would decline such a generous offer.

Ive been known here not just because I was a CEO or a model but also for helping homeless people, and donating in an orphanage. I may be born from a golden spoon but I had a heart that yearns for every single persons happiness and freedom. Just like what my mother always tell me 'pinanganak kamang mayaman ngunit ang tunay na yaman ay nasa puso, huwag ipagkait ang kahit na ano mang yaman na iyong panghahawakan dahil sa huli hindi natin iyan madadala sa libingan'. I felt that. My mother was right, always.

My thoughts were interupted when my phone suddenly rang. "Hello?" I answered.

"Three days from now is your grandfathers death anniversary, will you come back home my dear?". The man on the other line said. I took a soft sigh before I spoke.

"I don't know". I said.

" Thats what you always says every year I calls you to come back home or even just... Visit your grandfathers grave my dear daughter". He said softly but I can hear him sighing.

Thats my father on the other side of the call,Bernard Mondragon. I pause before I replied.

"I-im sorry dad, ive been----" He interupted me.

"Busy, your always busy my dear you dont have time for your father anymore". He sigh heavily.

My heart suddenly felt a sudden ache when I heard what he said.

"Dad I didn't said that I don't have any time for you Im just busy here because of my work, thats all". I explain.

"Is that serapina hon?". I heard a woman's voice talking to my dad.

"Is that tita evangeline dad?" I ask.

"Yes dear, your tita Evangeline here wanted for you to come home, everyone here is waiting for you to come home...we missed you so much".

" Serapina hija I missed you so much, we've seen each other a very long time ago, and you were just 21 by that time when your father and I flew there in US.. I think it's your time to come home". Tita Evangeline said. "You didnt even came when your dad married me, im sad". She added with a pitiful tone.

I chuckle softly not because of what she said but because of her pitiful tone. Thats why i loved her to be with my dad. She's a good woman. My father was lucky to have her.

She became my step-mother at age of 22 but i never attended their wedding, i was busy by that time but Ive only sent them gifts as a congratulations for being a married couple.

And what i also like about tita Evangeline is that she never wanted to replace my mother, all she want is to love me and my father. when my mother died both my father and I was devastated, after her first death anniversary i flew here seeking for freedom, getting rid of my devastation and all of the painful memories back home.

"My dear are you still there?" My thoughts were Interupted when my father suddenly spoke.

I cleared my throat. "U-uhm yes, yes dad Im still here".

" I think your still busy, so you can turn off the call now but I hope you think about what I ask you my dear, ". He said reminding me to think of what he is asking---go back home.

"I'll think about it dad, bye". I said before ending the call.

"Ms. Serapina?". I lifted up my head when I heard abigail's soft voice from the outside. I am here at my office for almost two hours shes probably checking if Im okay.

"Yes, Abby? Come in!".

the door widely open and she came in. "Ms. Serapina okay kalang po ba?" Tanong niya na may pag-aalala sa boses. Oh she's abigail torres my secretary, she's a pure blooded filipino and she became my secretary for 7 and half years.

I smiled. "Im fine you dont have to worry about me, abby".

She sigh in relief. "Mabuti naman akala kona po kasi napano na kayo eh magdadalawang oras na kayo na narito sa loob ng opisina niyo".

"Marami lang talaga akong iniisip abby, and tumawag din si dad malapit na kasi death anniversary ni lolo he's asking me to go back home". I said.

"Hmmm bakit di nalang po kayo umuwi pagbigyan niyo nalang po daddy niyo". Aniya.

"She's not thinking about tito Bernard, she's thinking about D----". Stacey suddenly came in, she almost said that jerks name gladly I stopped that big mouth of hers.

I glare at her " Stacey im gonna rip that mouth open if you ever utter that Hijo De Puta's name". I said speaking in spanish.

"Your evil,your gonna rip your own cousins mouth". She pouted at same time crossing her arms.

She's stacey alcarez my cousin from my moms side. Her father was my moms eldest brother.

And she's with me when I flew here 8 years ago.

"Just dont say that name in front of me, it makes me...." I sigh heavily slowly clenching my fist.

"It makes you what?". She smirk.

"Disgusted". I said without Hesitation.

Shs chuckle while shaking her head.

"Im just teasing you serapina and I know how much you hated that son of a bitch".

"I just dont hate him". I seriously look at her. "I despised him". I added and gritted my teeth.

"I also despised him, cousin... And look at you, you are Serapina Valkyrie Alcarez Mondragon, the sole heir of Mondragon Group and Company, you are a Diva cousin, and no ones gonna out-smart you, NO ONE!". She said boosting my confidence and cheering me up.

It's already 10 in the evening but here iam with stacey, drinking inside a casino. Well I don't have to worry about anything or my safety because zack was with us, my private bodyguard. Were here inside a VIP room no ones gonna Interupt my cousin and i.

Stacey poured my glass of red wine. Staring at me like she was trying to read whats on my mind.

I roll my eyes while slowly shaking my head. "You cant read whats on my mind cousin".

She chuckle. " I was just trying to, but yeah I can't, your too unpredictable serapina".

"As they always said". I murmured.

" Huh? What did you just say? ". Nakanganga niyang wika.

Umiling ako. "Wala".

"Oh yes, I had a question for you to answer cousin, answer me honestly okay?".

I nod. "Okay".

"Gusto mo bang umuwi sa pinas?".

Napangisi ako ng bahagya sa naging tanong nito sa akin. Pero sumagi din sa isip ko na wala naman akong masamang ginawa para di ako umuwi, wala din akong kasalanan di rin naman ako wanted criminal para magtago here sa US.

"Then if I said yes? Would that make you happy cousin?". Seryuso kung sabi.

"Well it depends if you really make that happen". She said. "And let me be honest with you serapina ah, your already 26 and you are married with that jerk for 8 years".

I stop her. " What are you trying to say stacey?". I ask.

"Why dont you file a divorce? You hate him, and he... Well he doesn't care about you, he doesn't at all and you knew that at the very beginning, so the perfect solution is you divorce him and find someone who truly loves you". That struck like a knife in my chest 'someone who truly loves me'. And thats now my so-called husband.

"Zack what do you think? ". She even dragged my bodyguard to this conversation.

Lumingon si zack sa direksyon namin tsaka ito nagsalita. " Divorce? Hm yes". He coldly responded.

Stacey stare at him like she's gonna bite the hell out of him. "Is he always like that cousin? As cold as hell?". She ask me with an irritating tone.

" He is". I nodded.

"Even answering my question he is so freaking cold!". She rolled her eyes.

"Im sorry ms. stacey but iam just a bodyguard, and thats out of my business but if ms.serapina wants a divorce then i'll wholeheartedly support her". He said.

I smile. " Thanks zack".

"As you please, Ms.". He politely nod.

The clock rans so fast that when I look at my phone screen its almost midnight, and iam not yet drank I have a high tolerance of alcohol unlike stacey here, whose already drank but yet she doesn't stop drinking!

Tumayo ako at humarap kay zack. "Please assist stacey I will pay the bill, at pag natagalan ako just.. Wait for me outside okay?". I said.

"Yes ms.".

******

"OHMYGOD!". Napatingin ako kay stacey ng mapatili ito ng malakas sa loob ng eroplano. Kaloka tong babae nato.

"Stacey lower your voice its not just us here". Suway kopa sakanya.

"Sorry cousin". Pagpapacute nitong sabi sabay hawak sa braso ko. " Hindi lang ako makapaniwala na papunta na tayo ng pinas! And I was very grateful to you na naisipan monang bumisita sa bansang kinalakihan natin".

"Well I missed our country, and I also missed my grandpa... Its been many years that I haven't visited his grave so maybe its time for me to show up". I said softly.

"Your right, uhm wait!". Napatayo siya sakanyang kinauupuan na para bang may hinahanap kaya ay tinapik ko siya.

"Ginagawa mo?". Taas kilay kung tanong.

"Where's abigail and zack? Where are they sittin at?". She ask.

" Theyre in the other room okay? Wala na kasing bakante dito so they choose the lower class seat". I replied.

"Ay oo nga pala, nakalimotan ko". Nakangisi niyang sabi sabay upo.

Spoiled brat tong pinsan kung to pero may time talaga na asal kanal to. Ewan ko lang saan nagmana to.

Maya-maya ay pinikit ko ang aking mga mata upang makapagpahinga o kaya makaidlip man lang kahit saglit. Sumagi sa isip ko nalang bigla ang araw nayun---ang araw kung saan ko siya unang nakita.

It was.....like a fairytale, but sometimes fairytales dont have happy ever after.

Flashback

"Mom, Dad?". Magkabila kung tiningnan ang mommy at daddy ko habang magkabila din nilang hawak ang aking kamay.

"Yes my love?". My my replied with a wide smile on her face.

"Yes love? ". Gentle tone of my fathers voice.

They were both patiently waiting for me to speak.

"Where are we po ba?". I ask, because I don't know what was this place. It's a big house , and full of luxury and there are many people too. The hallway had many bodyguards as well.

"This place was just like our mansion". I added with a soft giggles.

My mom and dad chuckle softly.

"This is the mansion of Don Luisse Romanov, and we are here to attend his birthday party". My mom explain.

" Who is he?". I curiously ask.

"He is a friend of your grandpa, a loyal friend". My dad replied. " And guess what your grandpa is there oh, talking with Don luisse". My father added pointing his eyes towards the front area where my lolo is standing beside a man, Don Louisse.

Hindi ako nagdalawang isip na bumitaw sa paghawak nina mom at dad sa mga kamay ko at tumakbo ng mabilis papunta sa lolo ko.

"Grandpa!!". I shouted loudly, like a little girl that didnt see her grandfather for a decade.

My grandpa immediately notice me and without any words he carried me into his arms,Like a doll.

"My lovely grand-daughter!". He happily said with a wide smile on his face.

"Hi grandpa". I giggles cutely. " Is he don luisse?". I ask looking at the man infront of us but with a polite tone and smiled.

He chuckles in amusement, looking right into my eyes. "Such a grand-daughter is an amazing gift emmanuel my friend". He said.

He doesn't seem like an evil man, and I knew he wasnt because my grandpa was a good man. So I believe he is a good man too.

"My dear he is indeed don luisse, today is his big day, its his birthday". Grandpa said.

" Happy birthday!". I cheerfully stated. "M-may I call you grandpa as well?" I ask with an innocent face and tone.

"Very well, of course my dear". He insgantly replied.

"Grandpa luisse!". Diko mapigilan na makaramdam ng malaking kasiyahan sa aking damdamin nang tawagin ko siyang lolo gaya ng pagtawag ko kay lolo emmanuel.

"May I ask your name dear?". Hindi ako ng dalawang isip na sabihin sakanya ang buo kong pangalan.

"Iam serapina, serapina valkyrie alcarez mondragon". Pagpapakilala kopa ng taas noo at pagkagalak.

nagpatuloy sila sa pag-uusap habang karga-karga parin ako ni lolo ng bigla akong napalingon at nakita ko ang isang batang lalaki na palapit dito sa kinaroroonan namin.

"Grandpa luisse!?". He called out grandpa luisse's name, grandpa?

Nagulohan ako habang nakatingin sakanya. "Who are you?" I ask politely.

He lifted his head and look right at my eyes. "Iam Damon". He replied and smile, his smile made me feel something, like----like we were meant for each other.

"Serapina hija he is my grandson Damon". Don luisse said introducing his grandson to me.

"H-Hi". I waved at him.

"Hello". He wave back.

"Such a kind grand-daughter you have emmanuel, whoever marries her will be so lucky". Don luisse said, I may be so young and innocent but I know what he was talking about, marriage. Just like my dad married my mom.

"Hija what kind of a man you wanted to marry in the future?". He asks.

My respond will later bring a shocking reaction onto their faces.

"I want to marry HIM!". Malakas kong pagkakasabi sabay turo ng aking hintuturong daliri sa apong lalaki ni don luisse.

*****

AUTHORS POV

Music beating loudly, people loudly singing together with the song that was played by the Dj. Men and women dancing in the dance floor, drank and letting out their wild side.

In the second floor of the casino, there was a private room occupied by three rich men's drinking expensive wines with four beautiful and sexy women's that work in the casino serving the wine to them.

When one of the men freak out while looking at his phone. "Oh my fucking god!!". He looks so shock and surprised at the same time.

He is Daylan Cortiz, a young rich man from the Cortiz family. While the man beside him was.

"What are you looking at Daylan? you look so shock". He ask with his brow raising.

While the man infront of them was kept unbothered drinking wine. His face was hidden from the light that only his neck and toxido can be seen.

"Did you guys see it?". Daylan's face remain shock while looking at the both of them.

"What?".

"S-she's back!". He loudly said, not saying a name but it's clear that it's a woman he is talking about.

"Come on daylan, who? Like spit it out bro... Whose back?".

"Serapina". Nang banggitin niya ang pangalan nito ay agad na napatigil sa paglagok ng alak ang lalaki na nakaupo sa kanilang harapan na para bang iba ang impact na dala ng pangalan na binanggit ni daylan sa tenga nito.

Napatingin si Daylan at sakanya.

"She's back?". Cold tone of his voice while slowly lowering the glass of wine he was holding.

"Y-yes she is, just look". Tugon ni Daylan sabay abot ng phone nito sakanya.

"For 8 years she's been away, now she is back thats a shocking news". Said.

Tinapik ito ni daylan at sinenyasan na huwag nang magsalita nang mahalata nitong hindi umiimik ang kasama nila habang nakatingin sa kuhang litrato kay serapina ng mga reporter sa airport kaninang tanghali.

"Mrs. Romanova so you're back". He murmured still with a cold tone of his voice calling serapina 'Mrs Romanova'.

******

SERAPINA'S POV

While i was taking a seat here in the balcony of the hotel that were staying, i notice abigail rushing towards me.

"Ms. Serapina your arrival was all over the internet and the media...if you could have take in a private plane no one would know that your back". She said, her face shows a whole lot of worries.

"It's okay, and first of all hindi ko naman pinlano na itago ang pagbabalik ko dito sa pinas abby". I said. And yes thats right my arrival in the airport was my very own plan. Ive ask zack to contact his friend from a media platform giving the information to that friend of him that iam back.

"K-kung ganun po plano na po talaga ninyo na ilantad ito na nakabalik na kayo?". Nakangiwi niyang tanong. Well hindi ko siya sinabihan sa ginawa ko dahil ayoko rin naman na mag-alala pa siya kaya si zack at stacey lang ang nakakaalam patungkol sa ginawa ko.

"Yes abby, so you won't need to worry about it okay?". I said.

"Yes, Ms.Serapina". Tatalikod na sana siya ng bigla siyang tumigil at muling humarap sa akin.

"Abby is there something wrong?". I ask her.

"Ms. so maaring alam narin po ngayon ng asawa niyo po na nandito na kayo?".

"Probably". Tumango ako. "I don't care about him, just as he dont care about me". Dagdag kopa.

Kaya ay nagpatuloy na si abby sa paglalakad palabas at mayamaya naman ay pumasok si stacey sabay upo sa tabi ko at napansin ko na hindi maganda ang mood niya ngayon.

"Stacey ayos kalang ba?". Nagtataka kong tanong sakanya.

She sigh heavily. "Iam not cousin, you know what?". She then look at me with a serious face.

"What?".

"Ive just found out that your stupid husband was toying around with some women's, and guess what? It's had been whole 8 fucking years!". Naiirita niyang saad.

"He is so stupid! Hindi niya man lang iniisip ang kapakanan mo, like you are his wife and he's still flirting with other women! Fucking disgusting!". She added cursing him. While I was just laughing and shaking my head.

"Thats indeed disgusting". I seriously stated.

"Your not gonna say anything about it cousin? Just that?".

I shook my head and explained.

"It's better not to think much about what he's doing for the whole 8 years Ive been away, im not the ones whose gonna face malicious rumors and gossips, he is".

"What about your reputation? You are his wife". She said.

"My reputation will remain the same, clean". I immediately replied.

"Your gonna be a laughing stock serapina".

"Well in that case yes, but isnt it a good picture stacey?". I smirk.

"What do you mean cousin?".

"People might mock me for not taking good care of our relationship...., Ive been away for 8 whole years so they would think that he did that because I left but here's the bigger picture... I was clean, no man beside me while im in the US all I did was doing my work and thats known.... so many will also think that iam the victim here". I said explaining to her the whole thing.

"I didn't think of that". She gasp.

"You know why were far more better than mens?". I ask her.

"Tell me why?". She curiously stare at me.

"Because were smarter than them". I said with a smirk in my lips.

Our conversation was suddenly interupted with a sudden call in my phone.

Kinuha ko ang phone ko at tiningnan kong sino ang tumatawag sakin. It's dad.

"Hello dad?". Agad ko itong sinagot.

"Serapina my dear Ive seen the news, your back?". Masayang tono ng boses nito sa kabilang linya.

"Yes iam back dad".

"Oo nakabalik kana nga pero bakit hindi ka dumiritso dito sa bahay? Nasaan kaba ngayon?".

"Im here in a nearby hotel dad dont worry I know that today was grandpa's death anniversary thats why I came back". I said.

"Hm sige, e-sesend ko sayo ang address kung saan gaganapin ang banquet ko na ipinadaos para sa death anniversary ng lolo mo okay?". Aniya nito.

"Yes dad, please include the time as well dad". I ask politely.

" be there in time hija, I will hang up the call now at kailangan na namin ng tita Evangeline mo na mauna doon sa venue,. Magkita na lamang tayo doon hija". Sabi pa nito bago ibaba ang tawag at agad ko din na nareceive ang text nito patungkol sa kung saan gaganapin ang banquet at sa kung anong oras.

"Maghanda na tayo". Agad akong tumayo at lumabas ng balcony upang mag shower at makapagbihis narin dahil ilang oras na lamang at magsisimula na ang banquet.

Iam ready now. I put on a soft glam make-up, wore an above the knee black pencil skirt, and a white blouse that fitted well my curvy waist. Together with a black 7 inches Louis vuitton heels, black Hermes constance sling bag that I just bought last month back abroad. I didn't wear much jewelry because if was a banquet for my grandpa's death anniversary not a luxury party.

"Ms. Were already here". Aniya pa ni zach sabay park ng sasakyan sa gilid habang nasa likod sina abby at stacey. Dinala ko sila dahil kailangan lalo na at hindi ko naman sila pwede na iwan nalang.

Sabay-sabay kaming bumaba ng sasakyan at napahinto muna ako at napatitig sa paligid. Maraming sasakyan na naka park sa bawat sulok at halatang halos mamahalin ang mga ito. Marami din ang nagsidatingan na inimbeta ng dad ko at nagsipasok sa loob.

Hindi pa ako nakakapasok at naririnig kona na nagsasalita na ang host sa loob, ngunit di ko naman kailangan na magmadali na pumasok kaya ay dahan-dahan lamang ako na naglakad papasok sa loob habang nasa tabi ko si stacey at nasa likod si abby at zack.

Nang makapasok na kami ay biglang nagtinginan ang mga bisita sa direksyon ko at nakita ko kaagad si dad sa front area kasama si tita evangeline at ang kapatid kong si skylar na nakayakap sa bente ng mommy evangeline niya.

Habang palapit ako kay dad ay narinig ko ang mga bisita na nag uusap-usap.

"She's serapina right?".

" Yes thats her, the one and only sole heir of the mondragon group and company".

"She's indeed back!".

"She looks so gorgeous".

"Ive heard that she flew abroad at age of 18 after her marriage with the grandson of don luisse romanova".

" She's been away for 8 whole years, but she's back now".

"I wonder if she heard what her husband was doing this fast few years".

Hindi kona inatupag pang pakinggan ang kanilang mga bulung-bulungan dahil hindi ako narito para makipag chismisan.

"Hija serapina!". Agad ako na nilapitan ni tita evangeline habang hawak-hawak niya ang kamay ni skylar at niyakap ako ng mahigpit.

"Im glad your back hija".

"Thankyou so much, tita". I replied calmly.

"Hija!". Hindi na ako naka react ng biglang yakapin ako ng napakahigpit ni dad. Nakaramdam ako ng gaan sa aking dibdib habang dinadama ang yakap ng daddy ko. It's been so long since Ive didn't felt my fathers warm hug.

"Im so happy to be back dad". I said.

Kumalas sa pagyakap sakin si dad at hinawakan ang kamay ko. "Masaya ako na nandito kana hija, at mas lalo kapang gumanda". Nakangising saad pa nito.

"How about me naman tito bernard? Diba ako lalong gumanda?". Nakangising tanong ni stacey kay dad.

"Of course you are my dear stacey".

"Thanks tito". She giggles.

"Everyone!". Pagtawag ni dad sa atensyon ng mga bisita before he began to speak. "We gather today to remember a truly good man, a life well-lived, and a legacy that will continue to inspire us. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering integrity touched countless lives, leaving an enduring mark on our hearts and the world around us".

"My dad, Emmanuel Mondragon was a man of honor, he is also a very good father, loving and very caring".

"While we mourn his absence, let us also celebrate the life he lived, a life that was a testament to his legacy. His memory will serve as a guiding light, reminding us to strive for excellence, to practice compassion, and to live with purpose, and may he soul rest in peace".

Before my dad end his speech he glances at me and ask softly. "Hija would you like to give a speech for your grandpa?".

I smile and nod, I did not hesitate to held the microphone and look at everyone present. I cleared my throat before I speak. "I would like to give this speech to my grandpa who past away for many years, to be honest he is a great man, a man with honor and dignity, he wasnt just rich by wealth but also... By heart".

"Iam so lucky to have him by side by those days he was still here... And some of you might be asking in your minds right now, why did I left at such a young age?.. Well here's my answer". I took a deep breath before I continue.

" First my grandpa died, second my mom died I was devastated, sad and lonely, my heart was in pain so I chosed to go abroad and seek clarity and freedom... Away from all of the pain Ive felt".

"But now iam back, iam back not just because it was my grandpa's death anniversary but because Ive already put aside those pain and iam now living a good life".

"And may my grand father Emmanyel Mondragon's soul rest in peace". This words Ive spoke was from the deep of my heart and soul. May my grand father rest in peace, in heaven. And he doesn't need to worry about me anymore, iam good. Very much stronger.

Pumalakpak ang lahat sa aking binitawan na mga salita at di nga ako nagkakamali. Malinaw narin sa kanila kung bakit ako umalis dito at kung bakit ngayon lang ako nakabalik.

Ilang minuto ang nakalipas at nagsasaya parin ang mga bisita habang umiinom ng alak at kumakain habang ako naman ay nandito sa balcony, nilalanghap ang simoy ng hangin na dumadampi sa aking pisnge.

"Ate serapina?". Napalingon ako ng marinig ko ang boses ni skylar na tinatawag akong ate. Ang ganda sa pakiramdam na may tumatawag sakin na ate.

Napakabata pa niya, he was only 5 years old. At napaka cute pa, kamukha niya si dad nung bata pa siya dahil palagi kung tinitingnan mga pictures ni dad sa album nuon.

"Yes baby?". I smiled.

"Carry me". Binuka niya ang kanyang mga bisig, napaka cute niyang tingnan kaya sino bang hindi mahuhumaling sa ka cute'tan ng kapatid kung ito.

Agad ko siyang kinarga at hinalik halikan sa pisnge. "Mmm ambango mo". Aniya kopa sabay halik sa kanyang noo.

"A-ate aalis ka na nam-man p-po ba?" Nauutal-utal niyang tanong sakin.

Natigilan ako sakanyang tanong na tila ba ay naiipit ang dila ko at di ako agad na nakatugon.

But before I could speak someone interupted. Husky tone of his voice with a mixture of coldness.

"I would like to ask the same question".

Napatingin ako sa direksyon ng nagsalita at nanlaki ang mga mata ko sa gulat ng makita ko ang kanyang mukha.

Those green eyes, like emeralds gleaming, hold a captivating mystery. They hint at both vibrant life and a quiet depth, a blend of warmth and cool intensity. They speak of hidden depths, of wisdom gained through experience, and of a spirit that is both fierce and tender.

His gaze, serious and unyielding, spoke of a man who had seen too much, felt too deeply, and carried the weight of the world on his shoulders. There was a stillness about him, a quiet power that commanded respect and kept others at a distance.

Damon, Damon Lysander Villavicer Romanova. My so called husband.

He's here? Hindi ko siya napansin kanina pagpasok ko.

Huminga ako ng malalim at nanatiling kalmado habang nakatingin sakanya, niyukom ko ang kamao dahil ngayon pa lamang ay nagdadalawang isip na akong banggitin ang pangalan niya. "Damon".

Napatawa siya ng bahagya sabay iling na para bang nakakapansin siya na nagdadalawang isip ako na banggitin ang pangalan niya.

"It's been a long time since you've left, Mrs. Romanova". He smirk.

I scoff lightly. Did he just call me 'Mrs.Romanova'?

"Yes it is". Kalmado kung tugon.

"Hindi mopa sinagot ang tanong ng baby brother mo, at tanong ko". He reminded me.

Kaya ay dahan dahan ko munang pinababa ang kapatid ko mula sa pagkarga ko sakanya. " Skylar go back to mommy, I need to talk to someone okay?". Mahinahon kung sabi sa kapatid ko.

Tumango ito at tumakbo paalis dito sa balcony.

Umayos ako ng pagkakatayo at seryuso siyang tiningnan. "About that..... I don't know".

"So your telling me na nagdadalawang isip kapa na bumalik sa US?". Nakataas kilay niyang tanong.

Whats wrong with him, why is he asking that question. Ayaw niya bang manatili muna ako dito? What the hell?

It's been a very long time since we've talk and I didn't expect to meet him again in this way. He's still the same, no lie.

"My answer is still the same, I... DON'T.... KNOW". I stare at him.

"Iam just asking". Ngumiwi siya at umiwas ng tingin sakin.

Napaiwas ako ng tingin sakanya ng biglang lumapit sakin si abby na tila ba ay may importante itong sasabihin.

"Abby?". I called out her name.

"Ms.serapina it's mr.lincoln". Aniya sabay abot sakin ng kanyang phone.

"Hello mr.lincoln, it's serapina". I answered.

"Serapina dear, your secretary told me that your in Philippines, I came to your office earlier but your manager said that you flew back home and she told me that if I need anything I'll call you or your secretary". He explain.

" Uhm yes, mr.lincoln I just got back here well you know it's my grandfather's death anniversary".

"Oh! Yes yes I remember, but lets put aside this conversation... I need to talk to you about your new fashion designs".

"Oh well yes, how about my new designs mr.lincoln?". I ask. I made few new designs last week at natapos lang din yun last day before kami nagbook ng flight papunta dito sa pinas.

" Well we wanted to used your designs for next week's runway show, if you agree". Natuwa ako sa sinambit nito sa kabilang linya at sino ba naman ang aayaw, it's mr.lincoln of the modeling agency that I've work in.

"That was great sir! Thats indeed great!". Masaya kung wika.

"I will ask abby to go back asap there in US so she can meet you in my office and you two can talk about the designs, my secretary knows everything about my designs". I said.

"Okay dear". He agreed.

"Okay, mr.lincoln" Tugon ko bago pinatay ang tawag at agad na sinabihan si abby na mag book na agad ng flight pabalik sa US at isama narin si zack upang may kasama siya doon at para makapag-usap sila ng masinsinan ni Mr. Lincoln.

Pagkatapos ay nagmadaling umalis si abby kasama si zack at naiwan ako dito----nagulat ako ng mapalingon ako sa kinatatayuan ni damon, he was still here.

"Hindi ka pa pala umalis?" Tanong ko sakanya.

Napataas ang kanyang kilay sabay tingin sakin. "What?".

Napairap ako at umiwas ng tingin sakanya. "Nothing". At maya-maya ay narinig ko ang boses ng isang lalaki na papasok dito sa balcony na tinatawag ang pangalan niya.

"Damon!?".

Nang mapatingin ako sakanya ay napansin kong pamilyar siya sakin. I just dont remember his name clearly.

Napatingin siya sakin habang nanlalaki ang kanyang mga mata na para bang nagulat. " S-serapina? Y-youre here?" He chuckle slightly like he was a bit shy.

Ngumiti lamang ako ng bahagya sakanya at naglakad paalis. He was probably one of damon's friend, I just dont remember who he was. Well I don't care.

Dina rin ako nagpaalam pa sa kanila na aalis ako, wala din akong balak magpaalam.

******

Habang pababa ako nang hagdan ay nagulat ako ng makita ko si damon na kausap si dad at magkaharap na nakaupo sa sofa.

Napatingin sila sa direksyon ko hanggang sa makababa ako.

Tumayo si dad at nagsalita. "Hija gising kana pala, your husband was here come and greet him". Nakangiti pang saad nito, at tila ba masayang masaya ito habang binabanggit ang pangalan ni damon. Urgh!!! What the hell hes doing here?

We've just saw eachother yesterday in the banquet, and hes here now in our mansion? For what?

Naglakad ako papunta sa kanila at naupo ako sa tabi ni dad. Napasulyap ako sa asawa ko----at napansin ko na nakatingin din siya sakin. Agad akong umiwas ng tingin at binaling ang tingin ko kay dad.

"Dad what did you two talk about?". I ask.

"Ahh yes, nandito si damon dahil nakabalik na from Russia ang parents niya, at gusto din ng in-laws mo na bumisita kayong dalawa sa mansion nila". Pagpapaliwanag pa ni dad sa aking tanong.

So thats the reason he's here.

"Theyre back?". Tanong ko sabay tingin kay damon.

"Yes". He nod. " And they want to see us together thats why I came here". He explain.

I sigh softly. Tsss stacey and I was just about to go shopping today. It's totally not gonna happen, babawi nalang siguro ako.

"Ganun ba okay, shower na muna ako sa taas at magbibihis narin ako at para makapunta na tayo sa bahay ng mom at dad mo". Seryuso kung saad bago ako tumayo at maglakad pabalik sa kwarto ko.

Palapit na kami sa mansion ng parents ni damon at nandito ako nakasakay sa sasakyan niya dahil pinigilan niya ako na gamitin ang sasakyan ko sa takot na baka ay magtanong pa ang parents niya kung bakit di kami sabay na pupunta sa mansion nila. Wala na akong nagawa kundi ay makisakay na lamang sa sasakyan niya.

Kanina pa kaming dalawa na walang imik sa biyahe, at wala din ako sa mood ko na magsalita o makipag-usap manlang sakanya.

Waste of time.

Huminto ang sasakyan mismo sa harap ng kanilang gate, at automatiy ang gate nila na bumukas at pinasok niya ang kanyang sasakyan papunta sa parking area nitong mansion nila bago huminto ulit ang sasakyan. Nang maparking na niya ito ay nauna na akong lumabas ng kanyang sasakyan at sinara ang pinto.

Napatingin ako sa paligid at napagtanto ko na malaking pinagbago ng mansion ng parents niya. It was here, that very night both of our grandparents decided to bethrowed us.

"Let's get inside". He coldly said. I just glances at him and nod.

Binuksan niya ang pinto at pagkabukas nito ay agad kaming sinalubong ng mga anim na maid at mahinahon kami na binati ng mga ito.

Nagtungo kami sa sala at doon ay agad kung napansin ang mom at dad niya, or should i say my in-laws. Nang makita nila kami ay agad silang napatayo at masayang sumalubong samin.

They were still the same, those smiles in their faces---sweet and very very warm. Just like don. luisse they also had a good heart. Pero diko alam kung saan nagmana ang anak nila.

"Serapina! My dear daughter-in-law!". Malakas at matamis na pagkakasabi ng mom niya. Si Ms.

"Hija, it was nice seeing you again for a very very long time that we haven't seen you". His dad said, Mr.

"U-uhm tama nga po kayo, sobrang tagal narin po simula nung umalis ako at nagkita po tayo". Para akong nakaramdam ng pagkahiya dahil totoo naman talaga ang sinabi nila, matagal narin simula nung umalis ako at.....di manlang ako tumawag o kaya manlang nagparamdam sa kanila kaya ay nahihiya ako habang kaharap sila.

Natigilan ako sa aking iniisip ng mapa-igham si damon at nakisali siya sa usapan. "Mom,Dad kakarating lang namin ng wife ko siguro naman maupo muna kami?". Pamimilosopong wika nito.

Sinamaan ko ito ng tingin at agad itong umiwas tingin sakin. Really? He's talking like that to his own parents?

"Oo nga pala, sige hali kayo at maupo muna tayo". Pag-aanyaya ni mrs. Sa amin.

Tabi kaming naupo ni damon habang sa kabilang upuan ay magkatabi din na nakaupo ang in-laws ko.

Its almost 2pm in the afternoon when damon and I left his parents mansion. Well marami kaming napag-usapan ng parents niya lalo na ng mommy niya. Like how was my life in the US, ayos lang ba ako don at kung gusto ko ba ang napili kong trabaho bilang model at ang hobby ko na mag design ng maraming mga damit. Well I loved my work, and everything in US.

Nasama din sa usapan namin ng mommy niya about saming dalawa ni damon. She ask me if, I was still inlove with him, at sobra akong kinabahan while she's asking me that, mabuti nalang at agad na nakisali si damon sa usapan at nabara ang tanong ng mommy niya.

She also asked me to stay here for a while, at huwag na muna akong bumalik sa US lalo na at nabalitaan daw ni don luisse ang pag-uwi ko at nagbabalak din daw ito na mag book ng flight as soon as possible. He was Russia right now taking cafe of their family business and as far as I know don luisse stayed their for 3 years.

Nabara lahat ng iniisip ko ng bigla bigla nalang hininto ni damon ang sasakyan nito sa gilid ng kalsada.

"Why did we s-----". He interupted me.

"You will lived with me". Napanganga ako sa gulat dahil sakanyang biglaang sinabi.

"WHAT!". I freak out.

He stare at me like he was gonna stab me with that sharp stare.

"I want you to live with me, in my mansion".

"I-in your house?". Nakangiwi kung tanong sabay taas ng kanan kung kilay. " And why?".

"Anong why? Of course your my wife so your gonna lived with me".

"Yes iam your wife in papers, so whats the use of living together? Nothing right?". Seryuso kung pagkakasabi at medyo tumaas ng bahagya ang boses ko, and i sounded like I don't want to be with him, living under the safe roof.

"Serapina iam telling you this so we can avoid gossips from the media or the people who knows about our marriage, gusto mo bang Pag-usapan tayo ng mga tao?". He stare at me with a serious face.

I sigh heavily, looking away from him. "I'll think about it". I coldly said.

"Okay". Malamig na tono ng kanyang boses.

Naputol ang aming pag-uusap ng biglang nag ring ang phone ko at nang tingnan ko ay nag pop-up ang pangalan ni stacey kaya agad ko itong sinagot.

"Hello?". Mahinahon kung tono.

"Serapina where are you at?".

Bago ako tumugon sakanya ay napasulyap ako kay damon dahil malakas din ang speaker nitong phone ko at sure ako na narinig niya ang tanong ng pinsan ko.

"Im with damon". I answered.

"Ganun ba? Okay, I don't actually care.....uhm are you free tonight?". Nilakasan niya talaga ang boses niya ng malaman na kasama ko si damon.

"Tonight? Hmm oo naman free ako bakit?".

"We will go to a bar!" Napangiwi ako sabay layo ng phone ko sa aking tenga dahil sa sobrang lakas ng pagtili nito, mababasag eardrum ko sa lakas nitong tumili.

"Okay sige, I'll pick you up tonight". I said.

"Thats my girl! Bye now cousin". She giggles and made a kissing sound before she ended the call.

Before he could speak, inunahan kona siya. "Bababa na ako dito, taxi nalang ako pauwi sa bahay nina mom at dad". At bago paman siya pumayag ay agad na akong lumabas ng kanyang sasakyan at mabilis na naglakad paalis.

When I notice that im far away from where he Parker his car, I look back but I should've not. He drove off already.

Damon, Damon, Damon. You are evil. Just like how you did to me 8 years ago.

Thats our wedding day, iam finally married to Damon Romanova. The man of my dreams. Well it was just a private wedding, the witnessed was only my family and his family. Maaga kaming kinasal dahil yun din ang gusto ng lolo ko before he died, and damon's grandfather don luisse made it came true. Siya ang rason kung bakit napadali ang kasal namin dahil gusto niyang ma fulfill ang matagal ng pangarap ng lolo ko na makasal sa apo ng kaibigan niya.

But after the wedding, damon torn me into pieces.

I can still remember to this day those words that camed out from his mouth.

'Don't be too happy serapina, you are now my wife but just in papers'.

'Don't be too full of yourself, I only agreed to marry you just because of your grandfather's wish, and my grandfather wanted it to be fulfilled'.

He then proceed to whisper in my ears, those last words made my spine shivers.

'I WILL NEVER LOVE YOU'

"Serapina, ayos kalang ba?". Napakurap ako ng bigla kong marinig ang malakas na boses ni stacey.

Agad akong napatitig sakanya na para bang nakakita ng multo. Hindi ako agad na nakapag react, at tinaasan ako ng kilay nito.

"Huy ayos kalang ba? Kanina kapang walang imik, ano kaba andito tayo sa casino......dapat magsaya tayo hindi parang namatayan". She sarcastically rolled her eyes.

Napahawak ako sa ulo ko at napahinga ng malalim sabay hawak sa baso na may wine, at nilagok ito.

"Im just tired". Walang emosyon kung sabi.

"Tired? Are you sure? Hmm your obviously lying... Dont tell me its damon".

"No, it's not about him". I denied.

"Then dont make me believe that you are just tired, like of what?".

"I just felt tired.... And my mind was in chaos right now". I sigh.

"What are you thinking?". She ask, lowering her voice.

"He wanted me to move with him".

Her eyes widen, she almost spit the wine out of her mouth. " What!?".

I nodded. "Uh-huh".

"Why? Why did he wanted you to moved with him?".

"So no one gossips about us". I answered. "Funny right?". I chuckle bitterly.

"Why dont you just take my advice divorce him". Easy for her to say that, but it wasnt that easy. It was hard.

Ive already talked with his parents and they look so happy seeing me again. It was difficult to divorce him right now in this kind of situation.

"Let's just put aside that divorce thing cousin, as you said were here to have fun, so we will". I said changing the topic, pouring another wine into my glass.

"Okay! Pour my glass please!".She childishly said.

"Here you go". Agad ko na nilagyan ng wine ang kanyang baso at nag toast kaming dalawa sabay tawa ng malakas.

Nabara lamang ang tawanan at chikahan namin ng biglang may kumatok sa labas ng pintuan. Pinili kasi namin na mag private room lang para walang makakita samin at baka maging headline pa sa media bukas.

"Come in!". Sagot ni stacey. Bumukas ang pinto at pumasok ang isang babaeng staff nitong casino.

"Miss may problema ba?". Pagtataka kung tanong sa babae dahil hindi kami nag order ng wine or anything. I don't know why shes suddenly here.

"U-uhm maam pwede po ba ako na makiusap?". Sa tono ng kanyang boses ay tila nagdadalawang-isip siya na magsalita.

"Of course, what is it?". I gently ask.

"Kasi po puno na lahat ng private rooms namin dito sa casino at may ibang gusto pa po kasi na mag inom at nahihiya po ako na makiusap nga customer sa ibang kwarto kaya naglakas loob na po ako sainyo na mag ask po if okay lang sa inyo na may makikigamit din po sa kwarto nito kasabay ninyo po ". Napansin ko na parang paiyak na siya habang nagsasalita kaya ay agad akong nakaramdam ng awa sakanya.

"Thats it? And what your trying to say is that we will let some strangers book this room with us?". Sarkastikong tono ng boses ni stacey.

Agad ko siyang pinigilan na magsalita ng masama sa babae at kinausap ko ang babae. "Marami ba sila?".

Umiling siya. " Hindi naman po, uhm dalawa lang din po tsaka po ang sabi nila sila nadaw po magbabayad sa buong renta po nitong kwarto if papayag kayo na dito narin sila".

Tumingin sakin si stacey na magkasalobong ang kilay ngunit hindi ko ito pinansin at pumayag ako sa nais ng babae upang sabihin sakanya na payag ako. "Oh sige, dalawa lang din naman sila well thats okay".

Halos di makapaniwala ang babae sa aking pagpayag at halos tumalon ito sa tuwa. " Salamat po talaga maam, maraming salamat po, sige po ah papapapasukin kona po sila". Aniya bago lumabas upang tawagin ang dalawang customer na gustong maki occupy din sa kwarto nato.

"Pinsan bakit ka pumayag?". Stacey complain. "We came here first".

"It's okay, dalawa tayo at dalawa sila... It's gonna be okay". I said.

Pero bakit tila kinakabahan ako. Napakalakas ng tibok ng dibdib ko na para bang diko alam kung bakit.

"Sir pasok po kayo". Narinig ko ang boses nung babae at napatingala ako sabay tingin sa may pintuan ng muli itong bumukas at nanlaki ang mga mata ko dahil sa aking nakita.

"Damon?". I murmured, while slowly gritting my teeth.

"What the fuck!?". Stacey gasp.

He was with the same man Ive met last time in the banquet. Kung ganun sila ang sinasabi nung staff na babae na kumausap samin?

Out of all places?

"So my wife is here as well?". Husky tone of his voice, and did he just smirk?

"Oh hi!". Nakangiting kumaway samin ang kaibigan niya.

Naglakad sila papunta sa direksyon namin at naupo sa kabilang upuan. Maya-maya ay may pumasok na lalaking staff na may dalang tray ng bear at nilapag ito sa mesa katabi ng wine na inorder namin.

"Oh mrs.romanova it was such a pleasure to meet you.... Again". His friend said with a polite tone of his voice.

"It's not a pleasure actually, tsk". Stacey sarcastically stated. "Out of all places dito pa talaga kayo sa kwarto na nauna naming e occupy?".

Tiningnan ko si stacey at sinenyadsn na huwag na lamang na magsalita. Sumimangot siya ay umirap.

"Who would have thought na dito tayo magkikita-kita". Malamig na tono ng aking boses.

"Your cousin here seems unhappy, wife". Muntikan na akong maduwal ng tawagin niya akong 'wife'. Huminga ako ng malalim bago tumugon sakanya.

"Well she is, wala kasi siya sa mood niya ngayon and honestly hindi niya gusto na may kasabayan kami na bihira niya lang makita lalo na kung sa ganitong sitwasyon na may inoman". wika kopa.

Naiintindihan naman niya siguro kung anong ibig kung sabihin.

"Uhh, excuse me lang ah pero may I ask if okay lang sa inyo lalo na sayo ms.romanova as damon's wife na may mga babae dito na mag eentertain sa amin". Usal pa ng kasama niya.

Mga babae? Mag eentertain sa kanila? Is this a brothel?

Bago pa ako makapagsalita ay bumukas muli ang pintoan at tatlong babae na may maiiksing mga kasuotan ang pumasok at napakakapal ng mga make-up. Agad na naupo sa tabi ng kasama ni damon ang isa sa mga babae habang ang dalawa ay magkatabing naupo sa tabi nito.

I force a smile looking at the both of them. "Well thats fine, actually it's quite entertaining for me and my cousin watching you guys, since bored rin kami dito okay lang din ba sa inyo na manuod kami sa kung anong klaseng pag eentertain ang gagawin nila sa inyo?". Tiningnan ko si damon diretsa sakanyang mga mata na hindi manlang ako kumukurap.

"Aba oo nga!". Malakas na sabi ni stacey sabay ngisi. "Hmm if may mga babae na nag eentertain, uhm may lalaki din ba?".

Nabaling ang tingin ni damon sa pinsan kung si stacey at sa mga tingin niya ay parang kakainin niya ng buong-buo ang pinsan ko. Is he mad because of what she asked?

"Gentlemen's my cousin is asking meron din ba?". I seriously ask.

Napatingin sakin ang kasama ni damon at napakamot ito sakanyang ulo. "Mrs.Ro-----".

"Dont call me that, nakakahiya naman sa mga kasama niyo". I said and smiled, while glancing upon these three beautiful ladies.

Damon cleared his throat and answered. "Yes". His voice cold and strong like he was actually mad.

"Okay". Tanging wika ko at agad na umiwas ng tingin sakanya sabay inom ng wine.

"Mr. Romanova who are they?". Narinig ko ang isa sa mga babae na tinatanong si damon kung sino kami.

Hindi na ako magtataka pa kung sasabihin niya na hindi niya kami kilala.

"No one". He replied.

As I expected.

Napalingon ako sa aking sling bag nang marinig kung nag ring ang aking phone kaya ay dalidali ko itong kinuha at nang makita ko ang pangalan sa screen ay agad ko itong sinagot.

"Hello zack?".

"Ms.serapina everything is done... Mr. Lincoln already had the clothes and he will used it for next weeks runway show". He said. Hindi masyadong malakas ang speaker kaya ay halatang walang makakarinig sa kung ano man ang pinaguusapan namin.

"Well thats great". Nakangiti kung naging reaksyon. " Hm nga pala nasaan ka ngayon?". I ask.

"Uhm here outside the office ms".

"Okay, after that magpahinga ka muna". Paalala kopa sakanya para naman hindi niya masabing di ako mabuting boss.

Pinatay ko na ang tawag at nilapag ang phone ko sa mesa at nilagyan ni stacey ng wine ang aking baso sabay tanong sa aking kung ayos ba si zack.

Nilahad ko sakanya na ayos naman at maaring makakabalik na sila ni abby sa lalong madaling panahon.

Maya-maya ay narinig ko ang mahina at mapang-akit na boses ng babae. "Mr.Romanova would you like to be Kissed here?".

Napahawak ako ng mahigpit sa baso. Hindi ako nagpatinag sa aking narinig at patuloy lamang ang aming pag-uusap ni stacey. Hanggang sa marinig kong nagsalita si damon.

"Your a good kisser". Pinuri niya pa ang babae, at nilakasan pa talaga ang boses niya. It's obvious na gusto niyang marinig ko ito.

"Then would you like to stay the night with me, Mr. Romanova?". The woman giggles flirtatiously.

Iinom pa sana ako ng diko namalayan na ubos na pala ang wine sa baso na hawak ko, kaya ay kinuha ko ang bote ng wine ngunit ubos narin pala kaya naman ay nilapag ko na lamang ang baso sa mesa at sumulyap kay stacey na halos saksakin na si damon sa talas ng tingin nito sakanya.

"Stacey". Mahinang tono ng aking boses habang tinatawag siya sa kanyang pangalan. Agad siyang napalingon sa akin.

"Yes cousin?".

"Ubos na pala ang wine natin, hmmm why dont we go outside and have some fun?". I smirk.

Nandito narin naman kami bakit hindi nalang namin sulitin ang pagkakataon na magsaya.

"Let's go!". She excitedly answered.

We both stood up but was stopped by damon.

"Where are you going?". His voice loud and clear. I stare at him.

"In the dance floor". I replied seriously.

"May problema ba kung aalis kami Mr. Damon Romanova? At tsaka hindi ba mas maganda na lumabas na kami at magsaya sa baba para naman sa ganun ay may time kayo dito". Pang-iinis pa ni stacey dito sabay ngisi.

Agad kung kinuha ang phone ko sa mesa at nilagay ito sa bag ko, bago tumayo at maglalakad na sana kami palabas ng kwarto ng biglang magsalita si damon.

"You will come home with me, serapina". Napakalamig ng kanyang boses ng tawagin niya ang pangalan ko.

Hindi ko siya pinansin na tila ba diko narinig ang kanyang sinabi at nagpatuloy ako sa paglalakad palabas.

"The nerve para sabihin niya yun sayo, tssss". Galit na tono ng boses ni stacey habang nakasunod sa akin.