Chapter 3

Masama ang loob ko nang magising kinabukasan. I felt like a fool! How it did never occurred to me that the bastard might be behind this arrangement?

Of course, he'd pull strings to get what he wants. He's filthy rich, so he just have to make a call to demand something from someone and then he'll get exactly what he wanted.

Well, that does not work for me!

Inis kong inilapag ang dyaryo sa harapan. I've lost interest in reading local news and angrily pushed a button to turn on my TV. The sudden sound startled Barin, who was sleeping by the TV stand. He stretched and then walked quietly towards me.

"Self-centered brute..." I muttered angrily under my breath as I petted Barin. "Hindi ko alam kung anong pumasok sa isipan niya't sinubukan niyang bilhin ang oras ko!"

Sighing loudly, I decided to dismiss the negative thoughts. Looking at the brighter side, Blake was true to his words. Audrey called early in the morning to inform me that the money has been transferred promptly. Now, they want me to attend meetings that would have to talk about the renovation of the theatre. They're asking for suggestions and wants to draw inspiration from the Miriinsky theatre in Russia, even just a small resemblance with what little money they have.

I assured her na pupunta ako at hindi palalampasin ang meeting na iyon. From what I heard, it would take less than a year to finish the renovation and make sure it caused as little inconvenience as possible to the practicing ballerinas.

Pagkatapos kong pakainin si Barin ay nagpunta ako sa loob ng kwarto. I still have three huge boxes of shoes and heels that I haven't fix yet. Isa-isa ko iyong nilabas at nilinisan. I sorted it out and placed it neatly to the shoe shelf, wondering when I'll be ever to wear this nice pair of white satin heels or the black pumps I impulsively bought when I arrived.

Habang nag-aayos ako ay tumunog ang doorbell. Lazily, I got up and glanced at myself in the mirror. I'm only wearing a white thin crop top and grey sweatpants. Shrugging, I went out to answer the door and came face to face with a huge bunch of pink roses.

The struggling face of the delivery man suddenly popped out, smiling apologetically at me.

"Miss Savannah De la Rua?"

"Yes..." I hesitantly answered.

"Delivery for you, Ma'am."

Dahil naaawa ako kay Kuya na medyo nahihirapan na sa pagbitbit ng bulaklak ay nilakihan ko ang siwang ng pinto at pinapasok siya. As soon as he stepped inside, three more delivery men followed, each carrying a huge basket of freshly-picked pink and white roses. Nanlaki ang mga mata ko.

"Teka, kanino 'to galing?"

"Uh..." he glanced at his notepad as soon as he placed the basket of roses atop my table. Iniabot niya ito sa akin nang nakangiti. "Kay Mr. Blake Sobreval po, Ma'am."

Fury started to boil inside of me but before I could stop them, the two went out and then came back with more baskets of roses. Sa liit ng apartment ko ay nahirapan pa kaming ilagay nang maayos ang mga bulaklak.

"Did he buy the entire flower shop?" I said under my breath, scowling at the innocent flowers.

Binilang ng delivery man ang mga basket at nag-double check sa kaniyang notes bago tumango-tango. Nilapitan niya ako.

"Pirma niyo nalang po, Ma'am."

I angrily scratched my signature at the paper and then give it back to him, scowling. He must've noticed my sour mood because he grinned.

"Nag-away po ba kayo ng boyfriend niyo, Ma'am? Ang effort niyang mag-sorry, ah?"

I almost rolled my eyes at his statement. This is more than a petty fight! It's a bloody war between me and Blake and a bunch of pretty white and pink roses could never get me to surrender!

"Hindi ko siya boyfriend," I said bitterly.

Intrigued, the delivery man stared at him. "Hindi?"

"Hindi." I said with finality. Itong si Kuya, nasobraan ata sa panunuod ng mga romantic films at parang kilig na kilig pa sa aming dalawa. Habang ako naman ay naha-highblood na at nagsisimulang mamroblema kung saan ko ilalagay ang mga rosas na ito. It would break my heart to throw these pretty flowers away. Blake might be wicked but these flowers are innocent and pure. I wonder if he got hold of it before the delivery? If so, I'll consider it contaminated!

Tinanong ko ang delivery man kung nakita ba nilang si Blake mismo ang pumili sa mga bulaklak. Umiling siya at sinabing ang sekretarya niya ang umasikaso nito. Blake only showed up to check the roses and gave them the go signal to deliver it.

Great, virus-free then...

Nang makaalis na sila ay sinimulan kong ayusin ang mga bulaklak. It blended nicely with my white and beige wallpaper and now it's like I have a nice, dreamy apartment in France with all the flowers. Kahit papaano ay napangiti ako.

But the smile suddenly faded when my phone ring. I hastily picked it up and answered.

"So, did you like it?"

A shudder ran through my spine when his dark voice spoke from the other line. Forcing myself to stay still, I leaned against the counter and then composed myself.

"Good old tricks, Blake Sobreval..." I said in an icy tone. "But this isn't gonna work."

"I'm asking if you like the flowers, Savannah." He said in a patient voice, as if he's talking to a child. "I don't care if it works or not. This isn't some kind of a game."

Like a child deep on a tantrum, my brows drew together and my lips pursed. Why is he making so much sense and I'm not? Humugot ako ng isang malalim na hininga at sinubukan ulit.

"If you think flowers will get you through this, you're making a huge mistake!"

"I'm not trying to get myself 'through' this..." kalmado pa rin ang boses niya. "I'm just trying to make you smile for this day. That's all there is."

"Kahit pa bilhin mo ang isang flower shop, Blake, ay wala iyong magiging epekto sa akin!"

"I just did. Somehow..." He confirmed and I was stunned. "The old lady selling these flowers in front of my office building is working under the heat of the sun. I thought if I'd buy all her flowers, she'll be able to go home and rest."

For a moment, I felt really guilty about thinking of tossing these flowers away as soon as I learned that it came from Blake. But knowing why he bought all these flowers touched me. He may be my enemy, but I still could appreciate good deeds.

Medyo kumalma na ako nang marinig iyon. The need to full control took over me as I reached for a bottle of champagne. It's not even lunch yet, but here I am pouring myself a glass. As the champagne exploded inside my mouth, the image of Blake, that serious-minded brute who does not leave his office, checking the flowers before it was delivered occurred to me. Napailing ako.

"You did a good job, then. I'm smiling for the old lady, not for you giving me these flowers." I clarified.

"I'm glad." He said without hesitation.

The tension of the silence between us lingered thick and heavy. Nang hindi na makayanan ay nag-isip kaagad ako ng excuse upang tapusin ang tawag.

"Look, I have a lot of things to do today. Thank you for the flowers, Blake... and for helping that old lady."

"Anytime, Anna..." he said solemnly. "Anytime."

My eyes misted as I stared at the flowers miserably. I should be happy, but I'm not. I feel like a fool, borrowing courage from the champagne just to reply to the man who had hurt me before. Why I am still acting like a young, teenage girl? These are one of the moments when I'm not very proud of myself.

Atty. de Guzman has become my confidant over the years. Whether it's a personal problem or a professional issue, he's always there to listen intently and offer rational solutions after dissecting and analyzing the problem.

"Hmm. Why don't you try dating, then?"

"What?"

"You're old enough to date other guys, Savannah." He said in a kind tone. "Why are you holding yourself back? There are lots of nice, young men out there who would be happy to take care of you. Actually, there are couple of young lawyers here in our firm that I'd like to introduce to you, soon."

I chuckled. "Alam mo naman pong wala pa iyan sa isip ko, eh. Iba po ang pinunta ko dito sa Pilipinas."

"I know. But how about some fun? It'd be great if I see you off with a nice guy then I wouldn't have to worry about you all the time."

I pouted. "Tinataboy mo na ako, attorney?"

This time, it was his turn to chuckle. "I felt like I am skyrocketing to aging with all the troubles you stick your nose with. I've no energy to keep up with you, Savannah. Sooner or later, you'll need a man who can keep up with you and of course, the one who deserves you..."

Natahimik ako sa sinabi niya. It has been a while since I last saw Atty. de Guzman. He was still a budding lawyer when my father got him as our family lawyer. He's been working for us for over a decade and now I really feel guilty that I'm adding stress to his life because of my recklessness.

"And since you're probably bored in your apartment right now, why don't you come to the charity ball I'm attending tonight? I'm sure you'll have something to wear. Maybe I could introduce you to some of the young lawyers I mentioned, if they're coming..."

The initial idea of wallowing up in self-pity and drinking champagne all day vanished at his suggestion. I agreed and we decided to meet at the hotel venue at 7 in the evening.

Inasikaso ko muna ang pagkain ni Barin bago ako namili ng damit na susuotin. It's a charity ball, so I'm expecting a lot of CEO's from sustainable companies and a lot of good-hearted business owners who are willing to donate for a cause. Maybe some of them are just there for the show, but the fact that after this event, some money will be put in good use makes me feel at ease.

I arrived at the hotel venue at exactly seven, wearing a black snake gown by Robert Cavalli. The dress is entirely backless, with only the sparkling metal snake and the thin chain of gold trying to cover my exposed skin. The edge of the dress pooled at my feet, concealing the satin white heels I decided to wear for tonight's event. I twisted my hair and put it in a high bun to accentuate the rather intriguing details of the gown.

Though I'd like Barin to come with me, I didn't want to shock and scare everyone with a black puma. And I supposed no young men would ever be interested with a woman who has a cougar pet. I rejected a lot of guys before because they didn't sit well with Barin.

"You look beautiful..." Atty. de Guzman, dressed in a simple black tuxedo and a red tie that I'm sure his wife has chosen for him greeted me at the entrance with a polite kiss on my cheeks. "Let's get going."

Inside the function hall, a group of elite men and women are scattered across the white-clothed tables. They're either chatting or enjoying a glass of wine. A small girl walks around, passing wildflowers to the pleased women and complimenting their dresses. Napangisi ako.

"I'll introduce you to some of my colleagues at the firm." Attorney said with a knowing grin pasted on his face.

Inikutan ko ng mga mata si attorney. He then proceeded to introducing me to the older partners of the firm and their associates.

"This is Matt. He's new in the firm and working as an associate."

Binalingan ko ng tingin si Matt at magalang na ngumiti. He took my hand and kissed it formally.

"Lovely to meet you, Miss Savannah."

Atty. de Guzman left the two of us to talk alone as the program started. Matt is very knowledgeable, as he should be. He commented on politics and the current events and even revealed some shady parts of his job. I listened politely to him and chuckled when necessary.

"Let's get some fresh air..." he suggested.

Binalingan ko muna ang nagsasalitang babae sa harapan bago ko siya tinanguan. We both excused ourselves from the table and then went out to the balcony. The summer air breezed through the white mesh curtains, doing a little happy dance as I breathed deeply.

"Atty. de Guzman said that you're not dating anyone... how come?"

I glanced at him slyly. "How come?" I repeated the question.

"Yes. I'm sure you're aware that you're very beautiful and elegant. Imposibleng walang nagtangkang manligaw sa iyo..." he laughed nervously at the last part.

I smiled at him, slowly, and then placed a hand on his shoulders. Matt tensed. Tinitigan ko siya sa mga mata.

"Oh, Matty. A woman doesn't need a man to survive. Just because a woman is beautiful and elegant doesn't mean she's required to have a boyfriend as an accessory. I'm busy with more important things..."

"I-I believe you are..." he stuttered.

My smile widened. "Get me a glass of champagne, will you?"

He repeatedly nodded before he stumbled away and I was left alone at the balcony. Napailing ako nang makita ang pagmamadali niya bago siya naglaho sa dagat ng mga tao. I turned to the balcony again and placed my hand at the railings. The wind blew, making the branches sway and the leaves rustle. The glass-clear sky is so full of stars tonight. It's a shame that the moon is nowhere to be found in a perfect summer night like this.

"So you've dismissed the poor guy..."

I turned and almost freed a gasp when I saw Blake stepping into the darkness. The light behind him made him look and feel more powerful as his towering shadow stepped over me. Nanatili akong nakatayo ngunit nanghihigpit na ang kapit ng kamay ko sa railings.

"I dismiss anyone I don't want to be with, Blake. I appreciate my time being alone." Suplada kong wika sa kaniya.

Inignora niya ang boses kong nagtataboy sa kaniya. Instead, he went to stand next to me. Nakaharap ako sa bukas na pintuan samantalang siya naman ay sa malaking punongkahoy sa likod.

"Are you following me?" I demanded, as realization dawned on me. Rage boiled inside of me as I stared at him, so calm and composed.

"No, I'm not."

"Then why the hell are you here?"

"Because I am a business owner and I happened to be invited at the same event as you..." he explained steadily, and then looked up. "Why? Am I bothering you?"

Hindi ako sumagot. I just continued glaring at him. With my fierce makeup, I probably look like an angry witch by now.

"I respect your privacy, Anna." Aniya kalaunan nang hindi ako sumagot. "You know that. When you pushed me away years ago and disappeared to Russia, I did not send my men to stalk over you even though I want to. That's because you want to be alone and I totally respected it."

Naningkit ang mga mata ko sa pinagsasabi niya. Kulang nalang ay mamaywang ako pero pinigilan ko ang sarili!

"And if my presence tonight bothers you, I'll go home, then. I don't want to make you feel uncomfortable."

I swallowed, hard. Miserable kong binalingan ang madilim na puno sa labas.

"Do you want me to leave, Anna?"

Parang may tumusok sa puso ko nang marinig iyon mula sa kaniya. Those were the exact same words I asked him years ago. And I didn't hear the answer that I wanted back then.

"You know I'd beg and crawl just to have you back. But I'm so torn. I don't want to see the wounded look on your face every time you see me. It reminds me of how I fucked it up. You were right all along, I'm a coward."

My entire body tensed as I stared at him. Malamlam ang tingin niya sa akin at punong-puno ng pagsisisi. I slowly averted my gaze away and set my lips in a thin line.

Unsure of where to put my anger now that he's stooping this low, I swallowed. No, I won't fall into his self-pity act. It's just a night of tears for him while it's five years for me!

"This dramatic play would've worked on me five years ago, Blake." I said, straightening my back so that the metal snake clung to my skin and whispered coldness. "You're five years late. I'm not the same girl you used to fool anymore."

"I didn't fool you," he said with restrained anger as he gritted his teeth. "Hindi kita niloko, Anna."

"Oh, really?" my voice was thick with sarcasm, as I pushed the first batch of tears that are threatening to spill from my eyes. "What was that, then?"

"Anna—"

"You promised all sorts of sweet nothings to me!" halos tumaas ang boses ko nang maramdaman ang pag-akyat ng galit sa ulo ko. Even just staring at him is so painful right now. "You left me, Blake! You left when I needed you the most..." my voice broke with sadness and bitterness that I could no longer hide.

Hinila ako ni Blake palapit sa kaniya. I tried to pull my hand back but he only hold me tighter.

"I did not leave. You're the one who fled to Russia! Anna, nakikipaglaban para mabuhay ang Dad ko noon. How do you think I felt when you suddenly announced that you're leaving?"

"Blake..." I sobbed.

"I was fucking torn, Anna! You didn't even confide to me. You just packed your things and then booked a flight as if I was nothing to you... I was really hurt."

More tears spilled from my eyes as I stared at him. Naglalaho na siya sa paningin ko dahil sa mga luhang tumatakip sa mga mata.

"You know why I left, Blake."

"I know..."

"And I promised you I would be back. But you never believed in any of my promises..."

"Because you won't let me protect you!" he ran a frustrated hand through his hair. "I offered protection and you denied! You left me all of a sudden... when I needed you the most as well."

I continued crying silently while standing in front of him. Iniling ko nang marahan ang ulo.

"You know I don't need protection..."

He smiled bitterly. "Yes. It's hard to love a strong girl, you know? You don't know what else to offer because you can handle everything by yourself..."

Humugot ako ng isang malalim na hininga at pinigilan ang panginginig ng mga balikat ko. I spotted Matt from a distance, carrying two glasses of champagne but as soon as he saw me crying with a man, he abruptly stopped walking. Binalingan ko ulit si Blake.

"When I went to Russia and you called on my second week, saying it's over..." I swallowed a lump in my throat as I refuse to cry more. I wanted to explain without having to cry but it's just so hard! "You said it's over without an explanation. You fucking ghosted me, you jerk!" I jabbed an angry finger at him.

Malumanay na kinuha ni Blake ang kamay ko sa dibdib niya kaya ngayo'y dalawang kamay ko na ang hawak niya. He started stroking and caressing my fingers, as if to calm me down.

"I did it because I was hurting and hoping you'd come back to me..."

"Well, you're a fool!"

"Yes. I'm a fool. Call me whatever you want, Anna..." he leaned closer and kissed a teardrop on my cheeks. "I promise I'll make up for the five years I lost, even if it takes another five years before you'll be able to forgive me for what I did..." he whispered on my ears as he pulled my closer against his hard body. "Just give me a chance, okay? Just one chance and I'll make this right."

More tears sprung to my eyes. Isinubsob ko ang mukha sa dibdib niya at napahagulhol.

"I won't ever let you go this time, Savannah..."