A/N: Hi. Thank you so much for your patience and reaching the end of this story. I only have one goal for writing this story—create a strong female lead that would break the norms and be an inspiration to many. I'm not sure if I ever reached that goal, but I enjoyed writing it so far, and it's what's important to me right now. Read on, enjoy, and keep safe langga.

Epilogue

Beauty is indeed terror. Any woman you find unbelievably beautiful, you tremble before her.

The first time I saw her as a child, I knew she was different. Her beauty is authentic and raw, sometimes overbearing, but it only justifies how she has every right to make a grown man tremble.

If the goddesses are real, they wouldn't be too pleased to find a mortal like her this ethereal.

Anastasia De la Rua is a marvel herself but I wasn't expecting her daughter to be this... beautiful.

A young woman this beautiful is often a treat to other girls her age. I could see she's been shunned away by other girls as their insecurity clawed at their throats, trying to make her feel inferior at her own party. So far, they've been successful.

"Bored ako. May yosi ka?" bulong sa akin ng kapatid ko. He's been acting restless the moment we stepped inside the mansion with our father. Nilingon ko siya at sinamaan ng tingin.

"Mukha ba akong nagyoyosi?"

Gabriel cocked a brow, amusement dancing in his eyes. "What? Huwag mong sabihing mas malakas pang manigarilyo ang syota mo kesa sa iyo?"

I huffed an annoyed breath while Gabriel kept grinning like an idiot. "Or is she really your girlfriend? A bed warmer, hm?"

"Will you shut the fuck up?" I whispered to him, annoyed.

"Oh, settle down, little bro. Kahit sa Maynila ako nagtatrabaho, nakakaabot pa rin sa amin ni Reuben ang mga pinagkakaabalahan mo."

Mas lalong sumama ang tingin ko sa kaniya. Speaking of the devil, my other brother showed up, obviously drunk. Sa kaniya nakuha ni Gabriel ang hinahanap na sigarilyo.

"I thought you're girl-hunting tonight, Blake? The hell are you doing here?"

For a moment, I didn't bother to answer my brother. Nakatutok ako sa kaniya na ngayo'y halos magtago na sa palda ng nanay niya. She looked a bit scared and lost in her own mansion. I could see the pool of sadness in her eyes as she offered a fake smile to the elderly woman her mother is talking to.

Sinundan naman iyon ng tingin ng dalawa kong kapatid. The corner of Reuben's mouth quirked up.

"You're eyeing the De la Rua heiress, I see."

"That explains it. Kaya pala break muna kayo ni Molly ngayong gabi." Natatawang wika ni Gabriel habang humihithit sa sigarilyo niya.

"What's her name?" I ignored their teases and focused on the young woman. Hindi na maipinta ang mukha niya at halatang gusto nang umalis. She gave an uncomfortable, half-smile to the elderly man who introduced himself to her. Mukha siyang natatae.

"Ah, si Anna?"

"Anna?" I turned to my brother again.

"Savannah Brielle." Reuben cut-off with a fake accent, stucking his nose in the air. "The De la Rua heiress, dude. Aren't you reading the papers?"

"No..." mahina akong umiling.

So, she's really the daughter of Anastasia and Simone De la Rua? My family has been doing business with them for years. How come I only saw her tonight?

"Ang gandang bata, 'no?" Gabriel commented, acting serious for the first time. He must have appreaciated her beauty the same way I do now.

"She'll be so hot when she grows up, bro!" siniko-siko ako ni Reuben.

"Bata." Ani ko sa malamig na tinig. "Bata yan, gago."

Nagtawanan ang dalawa. They're obviously amused by my peculiar reaction tonight towards a girl.

I've seen countless beautiful women, even gone to bed with some of them. Girls my age are just as stunning, too. But I just couldn't put a finger about the attraction I'm feeling towards Savannah. Heck, she hasn't even spoken a single word to me. The brown-eyed beauty just stayed silent, fiddling with her fingers and looking anywhere but the faces of the people who has been introduced to her.

"I'm going for a drink." I said, resigning.

She's probably 14 or 15. I couldn't be crushing on someone that young. It'll make me a creep and will crush what remains of my shattered dignity. There are girls in the city. Perhaps I could entertain myself with them while I try to erase the ethereal image of Savannah inside of my head.

Dumiretso ako sa kusina nila kahit na may nakalapag namang mga inumin sa buffet table. I'm not in the mood to socialize with people right now, as oppose to my brothers who seem to be enjoying the attention they've been getting from younger girls. Madilim at halos walang tao sa kusina. The staff must've prepared everything on the bigger dirty kitchen, just at the back of the garden. Diretso ang lakad ko hanggang sa makita ang pakay. I smirked at the sight of unopened bottle of wine sitting at the edge of the table, begging to be consumed.

I opened the first three buttons of my shirt, finally relaxing as I advanced towards the bottle and grabbed it by the neck. Pagkabukas ay tinungga ko kaagad ito. The liquid burn down my throat, making me wince for a bit before the sweet sensation of a finely-made wine soothed down my system.

I breathed a sigh of relief.

Half an hour passed as I enjoyed my company in silence, I heard awkward stabs of heels coming towards me. Nangunot kaagad ang noo ko. Mabilis kong inubos ang laman ng bote at tangkang aalis na sana nang lumitaw ang maliit na anino sa paanan ng pinto.

"Oh shit..." I cursed.

Staring at her, looking like a lost goddess with her ivory skin and fine bones made me want to bury myself alive. Her hair was fixed neatly and I assumed even when she wears it loose, it would still exude the same air of elegance only people who are born with class possess.

"Uhm... w-what are you doing here?"

I almost grunted. It doesn't even help that she has a voice as feminine and soft as her face. Even though she's stammering, I could hear her effort of making her voice firm and authoritative, as she should, because she is standing in her own house.

"Uhm..."

"You're the daughter of the De la Rua couple?"

I'm an idiot.

Mas lalo pang sumama ang loob ko sa sarili nang makita ang pagtunghay ng lungkot sa mga mata niya sa simpleng tanong ko na iyon. I wanted to pound my head against the wall. I was internally screaming as I watched the soft-spoken beauty struggled for words. In the end, she just gave a weak nod.

"Why are you here?" I prodded.

Hindi ulit siya umimik. God, I am thirsty for her voice again so I asked another question.

"Are you bored out there?"

It's obvious. I should really stop asking nonsense questions. She'll think I'm a creep. Dapat aalis na ako nang matiwasay bago pa ako may magawang hindi kaaya-aya.

"Here. Take a sip."

Seriously, what the fuck is wrong with me?

Gusto kong bawiin ang sinabi nang makita ang panlalaki ng mga mata niya. She looked so small and fragile and... innocent. What was I thinking?! Offering her a bottle of wine that I devoured myself?!

"Here, Savannah..."

Must be the fucking alcohol. Natatawa ako sa kahibangan kong ito. I desperately hoped that she'd say no, and even a slap from her would make me feel better.

"I... uh..."

"Come on. Just one sip."

Tangina talaga netong bibig nato.

She took a deep breath and I was surprised when she accepted the bottle from me. I tried to work my way out of the aching need of her but it was hard not to look when she slowly parted her lips and stared at the opening of the bottle. Pipigilan ko na sana siya pero ipinikit na niya ang mga mata at tinungga ang bote. Something inside of my stomach exploded.

Right then and there, I concluded something.

Savannah Brielle De la Rua is a walking sin, dressed in casual temptation. Even if she has no idea of it.

"Feeling better?" lalayasan na ata ako ng boses ko dahil sa halong nararamdaman.

"Yeah... thanks."

"Good."

Nilayasan na din ako ng hiya nang abutin ko ang pisngi niya. I just couldn't help myself. I just wanted to know how she feels like. She's too beautiful to be true. I jolted at the short contact of our skin and quickly withdraw.

"Do you want to go out? Pahangin lang."

Just let me have her for one night, get to hear her voice more and see her smile. I promise myself, after this night, lulubayan ko na siya. Gusto ko lang malaman kung anong pakiramdam. Besides, she's too young for me.

"Saan..."

"Kahit saan... Alis lang tayo saglit."

She hesitated for a bit, and I took it as a sign to admit my defeat. Right, I should probably just leave her alone. I'm just as shocked that I wanted her as much as I do even though I just saw her tonight. When she nodded slowly, I could feel my heart exploring.

"Good."

I wanted to reach for her hand, just to give her a sense of security and let her know that I am not going to do anything bad to her. I'm just planning to take her to their garden for a short walk. Yun lang. Halfway in the air, I stopped my hand and formed it into a fist. No. I'm being greedy. Once I know how her hands feel like against mine, I wouldn't be able to forget it. Mas maigi na itong ganito. Dahan-dahan kong ibinalik ang kamay sa bulsa habang nakakuyom pa rin at nanginginig sa sobrang panggigigil sa sarili.

As the night grew, we walked into the garden, not knowing that we were writing the first chapter of our tragedy back then.

"Blake?"

In an instant, the scent of roses and wild flower and Savannah were gone. It was replaced by the dry, cool air from the air conditioning unit. I snapped out of my thoughts, and dragged my gaze to my confused-looking brother.

"Are you even listening to me, you rascal?" Reuben sneered.

"Sorry. What were you saying?"

"Ang sabi ko, mag-move on ka na kay Anna. Ina mo, wala ka nang ginagawang matino simula nung maghiwalay kayo."

Naningkit ang mga mata ko sa iritasyon. Reuben didn't even mind it. Ipinatong niya ang mga paa sa desk ko at tinaasan ako ng kilay. Gabriel sat silently at the couch, staring at his iPad. Pero maya-maya ang pagnanakaw niya ng tingin sa amin.

"You need to take a look at your sales. It's been slipping. Napapabayaan mo na ang hacienda. Some of the workers are demanding a raise, too. We couldn't cater to their demands unless we do something about your lousy marketing."

My lips went into a hard, thin line as I stared at my own iPad, looking at the report. This isn't like me. I know. I buried myself in work ever since we broke up but I felt like a robot and ended up ruining the numbers instead.

"Or you could take a break. Reuben and I will manage here while you're gone." Gabriel suggested softly. Ever since the brute got married, he became soft-spoken and well-mannered than the rest of us. Reuben here remains a savage rascal.

"Ayos lang ako. Kaya ko pa namang magtrabaho." I said bitterly.

"We're just concerned." Gabriel said. "Ever since Anna—"

"Will you stop mentioning about her?!" I almost screamed in anger. Kumuyom ang kamao ko at kinuyumos ang pinakamalapit na papel na nakapa.

"Alright, alright. Chill, bro." Dahan-dahang inalis ni Reuben ang mga paa sa lamesa. "Pati si Dad nag-aalala na sa iyo. We're just doing our... brotherly duties."

"Well, I don't need any right now."

"Yes. We understand. That's why we're leaving." Gabriel stood up and dragged Reuben away before he could speak another word and piss me beyond purpose.

I was breathing heavily as I stared blankly at my iPad. Fuck it. Yes, I suck at work right now. Do they expect me to maintain the sales when every day, I am dying inside? I don't even know where she is or if she's safe. Fuck!

Sa sobrang init ng ulo ko ay inilayo ko muna ang sarili sa opisina. I grabbed my coat and car keys, leaving the office. Ni hindi ko pinansin ang pagbati sa akin ng mga empleyado at dire-diretso ang lakad palabas ng building. I got in the car and speed up to the nearest bar to cool my head.

I feel like shit.

I thought the electronic music and smell of alcohol would calm me down, but it only made me feel worst. Kakapasok ko pa lang ay gusto ko nang lumabas. Cursing under my breath, I strode quickly towards the counter and nodded to the bartender. He knows exactly what to serve me.

"My, my, if it isn't my old lover..."

Grunting, I turned and saw a smiling Molly, dressed in a royal blue bandage skirt and black heels. She smiled even brighter, as if taunting, before she pointed at the seat next to me.

"Hi ex, pwede ba akong makiupo d'yan?"

"Do whatever you like." I mumbled, as I reached for my Scotch. I stared at the dark, amber liquid inside the crystal glass, trying to find the pleasure that once soothed me days ago.

"What are you doing here, Sobreval? It's barely 6 in the evening." She lit up a cigarette and crossed her leg, stealing an accusing glance at me. "Got your heart broken again by Ms. Perfect?"

"Huh?"

"Ms. Perfect. Savannah. Duh." Inikutan niya ako ng mga mata. "I told you it won't work."

"Salamat sa pagpapa-alala, Molly." Sarkastiko kong wika.

She laughed out loud, clearly amused by my frustration. "Alam mo sa umpisa pa lang na hindi talaga kayo magtatagal, tinuloy mo pa. Para kang humukay ng sarili mong libingan. Tapos ngayon, iiyak-iyak ka?"

"I'm not crying." I hissed and drank my whisky.

"I don't need to see tears falling from your eyes to tell that you've been crying." She said quietly.

The atmosphere between the two of us suddenly got heavy. I started feeling uncomfortable in my seat when I remembered, just years ago, Molly was screaming at me when we broke up. I could still see the mascara streaming down her face and her red-brimmed eyes which made me feel guilty.

"Molly..."

"Hm?" she tapped the cigarette into the ceramic tray and fallen ashes made its way to the bottom. Ni hindi ako makatingin sa kaniya.

"I'm sorry for what happened before. I was an asshole."

"You're still an asshole."

I chuckled bitterly. "I guess I am."

"Well, what's done is done. I have already moved on, if that's what you're asking. No need to worry about me anymore."

"That's a relief."

"But Miss Perfect..."

My throat tightened again. I came here to escape from the thoughts of her haunting me down, even to sleep. But here is Molly, reminding me how much of a jerk I am.

"Alam ko. Gago ako. Di ko siya dapat pinakawalan kahit nakakagago na yung sakit na pinagdadaanan naming dalawa."

"Exactly. I won't give you any cringe-worthy advice because that's not like me. In fact, I'm a bit glad that you two broke up. Makaganti man lang ako sa babaeng iyon."

Nang sinamaan ko siya ng tingin ay tinawanan niya lang ako.

"Don't get me wrong. I'm still a human. I still feel grudge and jealousy. But what happened to her? No one deserves shit like that."

I silently agreed inside of my head. Having her home, name, and money taken away from her is just beyond evil. And to think it all happened at such a young age. I can't get through half the hell she's going through right now. Ang malala, kung kailan kailangang-kailangan niya ako, saka ko pa siya iniwan.

"Sa tingin mo mapapatawad niya pa ako?" bulong ko sa sarili. Apparently, Molly heard it and decided to make fun of my misery.

"If I were her, I would never forgive you, you piece of shit. But I'm not her. She's Miss Perfect, remember? The ever-compassionate, forgiving, elegant Savannah De la Rua. If it's true that she inherited her mother's beauty and brains, then I know she'll forgive you. Somehow..."

I drew my lower lip between my teeth, trying to prevent from cussing myself out. I'm already a fool as I am, no need to prove it to everyone.

Hindi ko na sinagot si Molly at tahimik na kumuha ng pambayad mula sa wallet. I need to get home before I drink myself and waste away again, like I always do. Alcohol numbs the physical pain brought by the loss, but my heart could never be tricked into forgetting her, no matter how much whisky I put into my blood. It's useless.

"Do call me if you ever need someone to warm you up..." Molly winked as I staggered away.

I feel worst. I feel useless. I'm so fucked.

Ito ang paulit-ulit na nasa isipan ko habang miserableng naglalakad palabas ng bar at patungo sa parking lot. I silently climbed inside the car, putting the engine to life and without a hint on where to go. I just don't want to be alone in my bed tonight. It's killing me inside.

Ihinalamos ko ang mukha gamit ang mga palad at marahas na bumuntong-hininga. From the side mirror, I caught glimpse of my sunken cheeks and hollowed eyes. My face could use some shave as well, but I didn't even bother cleaning up. It has been months... I lost count of it, since we ended things up. Bakit ngayon hindi pa rin ako mapalagay?

My phone rang all of a sudden. Cursing, I fished it from my pocket and was almost blinded by the screen. I squinted my eyes and pressed the answer button to stop the damn device from ringing into my ears, without even bothering to see who is calling me.

"What?" iritado kong sagot sa tawag.

"Hey, by any chance, did Anna went to Russia?"

"Who the fuck is this?"

"It's Carter, bro. Relax." He laughed at the other line.

"And why are you asking about my girl—ex-girlfriend?" I cleared my throat but I could not stop myself from seeing blood upon the mention of Anna's name from the mouth of one of my playboy friends.

"Well, I saw her today—"

"San mo siya nakita?"

"But I'm not sure if she's really—"

"San mo nga nakita?" Impatience surged through me. Carter laughed again.

"You're that affected, huh?"

Humigit ako ng isang malalim na hininga. "Carter, saan mo nakita si Anna?" I said slowly, with each word dripping with venom that warns him of his end if he continue to make fun of me.

"In a streamed video. Would you fucking relax?" he chuckled. "My girlfriend's crazy about ballet dancing recently and I caught glimpse of what she was watching on her phone."

Gusto kong tanungin kung sinong girlfriend ang tinutukoy ng gago sa dami niyang kalandian pero pinigilan ko ang sarili. Instead, I asked for the link of the video.

"I'll send it to you."

"Thanks."

Hindi ko na siya pinagsalita pa at tinapos ang tawag. A few moments later, my phone pinged, showing the text message from Carter. I quickly clicked the link that directed me to a streamed video that just ended. I hit replay and sank deeper in my car seat as I watched the performance.

Parang sinusunog ang dibdib ko nang mapagtantong siya nga iyon. I have no doubts about it. And she's still with Barin. A small smile plastered on my face upon realizing something. Everyone around her, including me, betrayed her. But Barin stayed by her side. I've never been so jealous with a damn puma.

But she's back to dancing... which means she's okay. I couldn't be more happy.

"Gabriel, pahiramin mo ako ng sampung milyon."

"Huh?" my brother looked up from his desk and squinted his eyes at me. "Come again?"

"Ang sabi ko, pahiramin mo ako ng sampung milyon."

He stayed silent for a while, waiting for me to grin and announce I'm just pulling a prank at him. But when I didn't, he put down his pen and adjusted his glasses.

"Are you fucking serious right now?"

"All my bank accounts are on hold as of the moment. It's a stupid punishment from Dad."

"I know. Cause you're being stubborn. And I don't have the cash right now. I'm flat broke as well. Kapapanganak lang ng asawa ko."

"Then sell some of your properties. I can't sell mine. Pati iyon ay ipinagbawal din ni Dad."

"Then something is terribly wrong with you. What the hell? You don't barge into someone's office and demand 10 million, Blake. Para saan ba yan?"

My lips went into a thin line as I stared into space. The moment I found out that she's back in the country, I made all efforts to see her which has gone to waste. After offering some money for an exclusive performance, pumayag na din siya without even knowing that it was me behind the scheme. I don't even have the money for it.

"Para kay Anna.."

Tumaas ang isang kilay ni Gabriel sa sinabi ko. "Anna? She's back?"

I nodded slowly. "I need to see her."

"You've booked a flight to Russia thrice this year and each time it gets near, you cancel it all of a sudden. Do you know how much money you've wasted already? And now, 10 million? What is this for, specifically?"

"Well, I promise to donate that amount of money to a ballet organization if Anna exclusively performs for me."

"Nababaliw ka na talaga."

"Maybe I am."

It's been five years, and I've never been better. Each year, I just deteriorated into something worst. Nawalan na ng tiwala si Dad sa akin. My movements are limited. I kept on failing my family business. I brought women to my bed here and there, but I couldn't even stand kissing or touching them. It always end up in an awkward scenario. In the end, I gave up and just concluded that I would be alone for the rest of my life if I don't do something about this heartache.

"Blake, bro, you need to get your shit together."

"I promise I will. I just needed to see Anna... maybe talk to her. Sapat na sa akin yun."

If Reuben is here, he would've died laughing at my miserable face. He'd tease me about it for the rest of my life. But I just couldn't care. I asked Gabriel for help because between my two brothers, he is the most sensible and reliable. If he himself doesn't understand, then I'd take it as a signal that it's really the end for me. From then on, I'll try to fix what I can, even if it means I have to live like a robot while my brothers are getting married and happy with their own families.

"Fine." Bumuga ng isang marahas na hininga si Gabriel. "I'll let you borrow that much, but you need to wake up, you fool. The company's been suffering for five years without you, Blake. Kailangan mo nang bumalik."

I weakly nodded. "Salamat... kuya."

He also nodded and pulled a cheque from his drawer, signing it hastily and then handing it to me.

"Now go get her, you coward. It's about time you face her after all these years..."

Iyon ang paulit-ulit na nasa isipan ko habang nasa sasakyan patungo sa auditorium. I glanced at my watch. I'll be half an hour early. Hindi ako mapakali habang iniisip kung anong pwedeng mangyari mamaya. I'd be expecting her to lash out at me, call me names, even slap me for everything I've done to her.

I have a million things to say to her but it all dissipated into thin air the moment she stepped into the dim-lit stage. I almost couldn't recognize her. She's gotten slimmer... more lady-like than she already is. She still carries the grace of a skilled dancer and poise of an elegant woman as she gracefully sauntered into the stage. Her eyes were sensual behind the mask, as if taunting me. I couldn't tear my gaze off her as I took in all her sight, not believing that she's finally here. In front of me. Alive and safe and just as ethereal as I've imagined.

She's finally grown up. Maybe she had outgrown me, too.

"So, you tricked me into dancing for you, waving ten million in my face and refusing to reveal your identity until the performance? Such an effort, Blake..."

Just as I thought. Parang hinihiwa ang puso ko sa talas ng tingin niya sa akin. Her eyes may be sensual, but it showed no emotions at all. Parusa sa aking ang disgustong ekspresyon niya sa mukha, na para bang ako ang pinakahuling taong gusto niyang makita ngayong araw.

"Anna..." I silently pleaded.

Okay lang kung sigawan niya ako ngayon, o sumbatan at sampalin. It would make me feel better. But what about her? Would letting it all out make her feel good? I don't think so. I remind her of every painful memory she's had.

"It's good to see you again, Blake. Now that I've danced for you, please make sure to deposit the money as soon as possible. I'm done for the day."

Fuck.

Desperation surged through me and clouded my judgment as I strode towards her. "Anna!" I even grabbed her arm which I instantly regret when I felt her flinch under my skin. "Mag-usap tayo..."

"There's nothing to talk about."

"Anna, please... I'm going insane, I need to talk to you."

"Blake, walang dapat pag-usapan. Limang taon na ang nakalipas. Tapos na tayo."

The authority of her voice made me weak. It was so final for her to say something like that when I could barely convince myself that we are over.

"I know I made a mistake—"

"Please, Blake... Leave me alone."

Tinitigan ko siya nang mabuti. I was desperate for any sign that she's meaning it otherwise but I could tell she's really uncomfortable around me. It made me sick. It made me angry of myself. Sa huli ay unti-unti ko rin siyang binitawan.

The moment I let go, she quickly strode away from me like I transmit a communicable disease and disappeared. Barin lingered for a while, glaring at me and made a little snarl before following his owner.

"Yeah, Barin. I hate myself, too..." I whispered as I was left alone in that dark stage. Sinulyapan ko ang sekretarya na hindi mapakaling nakatingin sa akin pagkatapos nang natuklasan. Without thinking about it, I tossed her the car keys and jump down from the stage. "Go back to the office, Diana. I need to be alone for a while."

Mabilis kong tinawagan ang dalawang kapatid. I dropped by the bar and met them there. Gabriel is looking bored while Reuben is grinning at some female bartender, obviously flirting with her.

"Kumusta 10-million performance?" sarkastikong tanong sa akin ni Gabriel pagkaupo ko.

"At least she didn't slap me..." I said in a silent voice. "She didn't even scream at me."

"That means you're in a deep shit, bro." Tumawa nang malakas si Reuben. "When ladies go silent, they're really mad at you."

"Can't blame her. Any advice?" humalumbaba ako habang pilit na winawaksi sa isipan ang galit na mukha ni Savannah kanina. How can she get that angry and yet still look so beautiful?

"Send her flowers." Reuben said.

"Yeah, women are suckers for flowers."

Maybe most women, but not her.

After sending her a bunch of flowers and calling her, I only received a cold response.

"Good old tricks, Blake Sobreval.... but this isn't gonna work."

Ge, napakagaling mo talaga, Reuben.

"I'm asking if you like the flowers, Savannah." I said patiently. "I don't care if it works or not. This isn't some kind of a game."

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

"I'm not trying to get myself 'through' this... I'm just trying to make you smile for this day. That's all there is."

Desperation clawed at my throat. I must be a shameless man in her eyes. But I'd do anything just to win her back.

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

"I just did. Somehow..." I refused to chuckle. I could already imagine her cute little face getting red from anger. Inipit ko ang pang-ibabang labi. You're crazy, Blake. Anna is still fucking mad at you.

Pangiti-ngiti pa ako kahit na binabaan niya ako ng telepono. Reuben entered my office all of a sudden, giving me a dirty look.

"Stop smiling, you look like an idiot." he handed down some papers and tapped my desk. "You better work on it. Dad's coming to visit us this weekend. Also, he has granted back the management of your resort."

"Great. Thanks." I said, still smiling.

"Parang gago 'to. Bahala ka na d'yan." He said and excused himself out.

My phone rang again, and I grabbed it excitedly, hoping it was Anna calling me back. To my dismay, it's just Carter. I boredly tap the answer button.

"Oh?"

"Awit. Hindi ka ba masayang marinig ang boses ko, pare? Tamlay mo, ah."

"Ano yun, Carter? Busy ako." Malamig kong wika sa kaniya.

He chuckled. "Busy ka pala. Sige, mamaya nalang ako tatawag. Gusto ko lang naman sanang sabihin na invited si Anna sa charity event na dadaluhan ng Tito ko mamaya. Pero sige, dahil busy ka, hindi ko nalang sasabihin kung anong event."

"What event—"

I cursed out loud when he ended the call. Nant-trip talaga ang gago. I quickly dialed his number again and impatiently waited for him to pick up the call.

"Oh?" anito pagkasagot sa tawag.

"Where's the event, Carter?" I patiently asked.

"Hindi ko sasabihin—"

"Do you want to die?"

He laughed out loud. "Fine. It's a charity gala at The Ritz this evening. Are you coming?"

"Hell, yes, I am."

Muntik nang kumulo ang dugo ko nang makitang may kausap siyang lalaki sa gala. She looked stunning, as always. She knows red and black looks good on her and can pull it off so well. Heck, she puts the rest of the women here in shame. Pinigilan ko ang sarili habang pinapanuod silang dalawa na nagtatawanan. I grabbed a glass of whisky to cool myself down. Kasalanan mo, Blake, kung bakit tagapanuod ka lang sa kanilang dalawa kaya magtiis ka.

I just stared at her from afar, still mesmerized by her beauty and compassion after all these years. The two of them went out to the balcony, which made me frown. I remained at a safe distance, like a hawk gawking at her. Isang maling hawak lang ng lalaking yan kay Anna, patay yan sa akin.

To my surprise, the guy walked away from Anna. She stood there, looking unbothered and staring at the dark sky. Hindi ko na hinintay na bumalik ang lalaking iyon. I gathered my courage to approach her again.

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

Savannah turned and for a moment, a flash of surprised crossed her elegant features but she expertly conceale it.

"I dismiss anyone I don't want to be with, Blake. I appreciate my time being alone."

Yes, of course.

Hindi ako sumagot at tinabihan siya. I could smell her perfume and it's driving me crazy. Ibinulsa ko ang mga kamay bago ko pa siya abutin at yakapin.

"Are you following me?"

Yes, I am.

"No, I'm not."

"Then why the hell are you here?"

"Because I'm a business owner and I happened to be invited at the same event as you... Why? Am I bothering you?"

Lies.

When Anna didn't answer, I took it as a signal to just leave her alone. Sapat na sa akin na makita ko siya ngayong gabi.

"I respect your privacy, Anna. 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."

Those were the most painful years of my life.

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

Nakita ko lang siyang lumunok pero hindi man lang ako tiningnan. Some people are glancing over us, obviously curious because after a while, I'm seen with a woman again. It has been forever since I dated anyone publicly and with my recent failures at the business, I'm sure reporters will interpret my disastrous love life as a hot lead.

"Do you want me to leave, Anna?" halos bulong ko nang tanong sa kaniya.

"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."

Ilang minuto din siyang tahimik. I thought she'd never answer me but she just straightened her spine like a queen who just placed her crown atop her head and glanced at me.

"This dramatic play would've worked on me five years ago, Blake. You're five years late. I'm not the same girl you used to fool anymore."

"I didn't fool you. Hindi kita niloko, Anna."

"Oh, really? What was that, then?"

"Anna—"

"You promised all sorts of sweet nothings to me!" her temper rose as she glared at me angrily. "You left me, Blake! You left me when I needed you the most...."

I know. Fuck myself.

Hindi ko na napigilan ang sarili. I would rather kill myself than to see her cry because of me. I pulled her into a hug. At first, she was struggling against me but after a few seconds, she just weakened in my arms.

"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..."

Shit, she's crying now.

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

Hindi ko maitago ang hinanakit. Part of the reason why I went spiraling down was my father's condition. All he wanted was to save Anna that night. Every day, at the hospital, he'd ask me how is she doing. Kahit na andaming tubo na nakakabit sa kaniya, si Anna pa rin ang bukambibig niya. Si Anna na bigla nalang umalis at hindi nagpaalam.

"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!" frustration surged through me. "I offered protection and you denied! You left me all of a sudden... when I needed you the most as well."

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

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

"When I went to Russia and you called me on the second week, saying it's over... You said it's over without an explanation. You fucking ghosted me, you jerk!"

I know, baby... I'm sorry. I'm an asshole, okay.

"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... 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... Just give me a chance, okay? Just one chance and I'll make this right."

I couldn't help but feel guilty as more tears sprang to her eyes. I didn't even bother to mind the people watching us in silence but screaming curiosity. I angled my body so that they couldn't see Anna crying. Hinigpitan ko ang yakap sa kaniya.

"I won't ever let you go this time, Savannah..." I whispered into her ears.

I made her that promise three years ago and I made sure that I would be by her side no matter what. It's only been a few years, but it was crazy. So many things have happened. I almost died. It sounds romantic, dying in the name of love. But when I was being rolled into the hospital bed, bleeding, half-awake and half-unconscious, all I could think about is Anna.

If I die tonight, I won't be able to keep my promise. If I die, Anna would loathe me for the rest of her life for giving her an empty promise again.

I can't die tonight. Not yet.

"B-Blake...."

I could hear her sobbing next to me. My vision is blurred. I was hoping to see her face one more time before I go to sleep for a while. I wanted to open my mouth, just to promise her that I'll be back and that she should wait for me.

I failed to assure her that night. I couldn't even imagine how scared she is, not knowing if I will live or die. It must have been the longest hours for the both of us.

But a promise is a promise. So, I came back.

"Blake?"

I turned to my wife and smiled. She's smiling at me shyly, dressed in a white linen maternity dress with her hand unconsciously resting on her bump.

"Is it okay? Don't I look too fat?"

Umusog ako at hinablot ang braso niya. Anna squealed when I pulled her down to me. Kaagad ko siyang siniil ng halik habang ang isang kamay ay nakasuporta sa baywang niya.

"You look beautiful..." I murmured against her lips.

Ever since she got pregnant, Anna has gotten more beautiful. I couldn't explain the glow in her face each time she smiles. She always complains that her cheeks are getting fatter but I think it just made her look cuter and gentle. She let her hair grow in a soft cloud of curls and barely made an effort to put on some makeup, so I get to enjoy her raw beauty every single day.

"Binobola mo ako, eh..." she pouted. "I gained 2 pounds from last week."

"Trust me, you really are beautiful. I'd say this without hesitation even if I'm just a stranger to you right now."

She scrunched her cute, little nose and stuck her tongue out at me. "You'd say that because you want to get into the pants of the poor pregnant lady."

"Lucky me, I'm not a stranger to you..." I said huskily, my hands slipping into the thin linen material of her dress. She gasped when my palm made contact with her belly. Anna sighed and trembled, which aroused me even more. I could feel myself hardening just at the sight of my wife with her eyes closed and lips slightly parted. The doctor said we should be more careful in our fervent love making since she got pregnant and I've been nothing but gentle to her. Every inch of her body deserves to be worshipped, I thought as I skimmed through the bands of her lace panties and carefully pulled it down. I let the thin piece of fabric fall into the floor. Ikinandong ko siya sa hita at muling siniil ng halik.

Anna's sensual laughter was music to my ears. She naughtily bit my lower lip with her eyes twinkling mischievously. God, she knows exactly what she's doing and it makes me so weak about her. I couldn't restrain myself anymore. Lifting her gently, I carried her to bed and made love.

Anna slept like a baby that night. Soon, we'd have our own. Ever since she got pregnant, I've been reading articles about how to care for a pregnant woman and the possible implications of giving birth. I didn't want to think about the number of complications that are associated with pregnancy, even the post-partum depression. I believe Anna is going to be a wonderful mother, as she'd done so well in being a good woman. And if she ever experiences it, I'll make sure to be with her.

Gumapang ang kamay ko sa tiyan ni Anna. I held her tummy with so much tender. I've held children before, but the knowing that the child growing inside of her is mine makes me so emotional. I can't wait to held her or him. I can't wait to go home after work to my lovely wife and kids. I know she'd go back to work after soon, as she does not confine herself to be a typical housewife. Just the thought of us makes me want to burst into tears each time.

"I love you.." I whispered to her while she's sleeping. "I am forever grateful for giving me a chance to be a part of your life, Anna... I'll never stop loving you."

Umusog ako papalapit sa kaniya at niyakap siya. She contentedly wrapped her arms around me, still asleep, and murmured my name. It made me smile. Hinalikan ko ang noo niya at ipinikit ang mga mata.

I know she was made to believe that she has a fairytale life but Valerie ruined it all for her. Now that she's dead and gone, no one can threaten her again. No insane, manipulative woman with a split personality can ruin her family again. Not under my protection. They'd have to go over my dead body before they could touch even a strand of Anna's hair and my child.

At least I could give her the happily-ever after she deserved. After all, she's royalty. A gem I would never trade off with anything in my life. She's my happiness. My only source of euphoria. Even if I'm not a prince, I'll make her fairytale come true.

#HanmariamRBEpilogue