You have reached the end of Rhythm to My Chaos. As always, I had a lot of fun writing a light romance story. This story holds a special place in my heart. Thank you for being a part of Aleena and Ike's journey. While writing, I also had my own realizations when trying to put myself in the shoes of Aleena or Ike. I learn that sometimes living with fear holds us from taking risks and ends up losing chances that we might regret. So to everyone who's reading this, I hope that you can finally let go of your fears and face the unnerving and exciting future.

#NewClassicRTMC
#RTMCTheLastRhythm

Epilogue

Like what I expected, Summer of 19 topped the charts.

"Ang galing ni Aleena. She really exceeded everyone's expectations," puri ni Mr. Joel kay Aleena nang makalapit siya sa akin.

Inilapit niya ang wine glass na hawak. Napangiti ako at saka pinatunog ang baso naming dalawa.

I hosted an intimate party to celebrate the success of Aleena's debut single. Two months later, she was bound to release her first mini album which gathered anticipation from the public. It was one of the most awaited music acts for the year. They were interested to know why it took two years for Aleena to make her official debut after Road to Records.

"Also, congrats to your label for successfully producing a new artist," he added, wearing a fatherly smile. "Aleena's a great investment."

"Thank you," I simply said.

She's not just a great investment to First Class Record Label. She's also a great girlfriend and fiancée.

And speaking of, my eyes quickly roamed around the hall to find the woman I love. She was hanging out with Zendaya and Cloé. They were surrounding Sic's girlfriend, Lavinia, like she was some kind of a new doll.

They first met her during Cloé's graduation last month. Hindi nga lang sila nagtagal ni Sic kaya hindi rin masyadong nakasama ng tatlo. They all wanted to get close to her.

"Hay..." pagbubuntonghininga ni Mr. Joel na siyang muling nakaagaw ng aking pansin. "Napakabilis talaga ng pagdaan ng taon. Ang layo na nang narating ninyong lahat. Pagkatapos ay pati si Sic may girlfriend na!"

My lips twitched as I stopped myself from laughing. I could still clearly remember when Sic's dating rumors were published on the internet out of nowhere. Mr. Joel looked like he was on his wits' end.

"Mabuti na lang at wala nang natitira pa sa inyong apat," sabi niya at alam kong talagang pinagpapasalamat niya 'yon.

Out of all people, I knew well that we were a huge pain in his ass. We caused him trouble a lot of times with our dating news. He used to confide in me, not until I also became the subject of the same issue.

It all started that one summer when I scouted Aleena Iris Caringal to be my mentee for a survival show.

"What is it? We're still not starting. I thought the press con would only last until before noon?" I frustratingly asked Mr. Joel as I was pressed for time. "I still have a flight back to Palawan at one."

"Nagkaroon ng technical issues kaya madedelay ang press con. The staffs already apologized for the inconvenience," mahinahong paliwanag niya sa akin. "Don't worry. I'll be the one to reschedule your flight back to Palawan. Gusto mo bang mamayang gabi o bukas na lang para makapagpahinga ka pa nang maayos?"

"Mamayang gabi pa?" I didn't mean to sound rude, but the frustration was testing my patience. "I need to go as soon as this ends."

Mr. Joel was caught off guard a bit when I showed an indifferent attitude. I had always been patient, especially when it comes to work. However, I just couldn't do the same thing at that moment.

"Okay, okay. Calm down. Ire-reschedule ko ang flight mo sa susunod na available flight," he reassured me and reached for his iPad. "Send me the PDF of your flight details. Ako na ang mag-aasikaso."

Iritado kong inabot ang aking cellphone. I emailed him the PDF he needed. Nang matapos ay muli kong nasulyapan ang oras at mas lalong nakaramdam ng iritasyon.

I exhaled a deep sigh as I blamed myself for not getting her number. It didn't cross my mind. We were always together every day but I didn't bother. I should've asked her that first thing!

"Ano ba ang problema, Ike?" kalmadong tanong sa akin ni Mr. Joel nang naupo sa aking harapan. "Do you have an important appointment back in Palawan?"

"It's the night of Aleena's competition," I replied, feeling dejected.

"Aleena?" Mr. Joel made her name sound so suspicious. "Isn't she the woman you're scouting for Road to Records?"

Without saying a word, I casually nodded.

Mr. Joel didn't say anything after that but I remembered him looking troubled. I disregarded his reaction as I was more concerned about the possibility that I'd be late for the contest—or worse—I might not even be able to make it.

And so, once the press con ended, I didn't waste more time. I was escorted to the airport and flew to Palawan without bothering to change my clothes.

The next flight after my original schedule was three hours later. I was anxiously waiting to board the plane. However, it seemed like it was really my unlucky day. I was destined not to watch the competition. Due to the heavy rain, my flight got delayed for two hours more. It was almost eight in the evening when my plane landed at Puerto Princesa. I ended up missing the important event.

It was a full moon that night. Aleena was standing in front of me with bare face while wearing a pretty dress. It made her even more beautiful. It surpassed the beauty of the moonlight's reflection glittering on the surface of the water.

I swore I could stare at her all night. But the moment her tears shone as it pooled inside her eyes, I wanted to avert my gaze. Her expression mirrored what she truly felt. And although she was pretty much giving away everything just by looking at her, those eyes were still heavy for me to read. It was weighing my heart down.

"Can't you see? I'm not capable and talented enough that's why I didn't win!" Aleena was in verge of tears out of frustration. "Kaya gaya ng sabi ko noon, maghanap ka na lang ng iba. Find someone who could help you keep your reputation and not destroy it."

There was a pang of pain in my chest. Her desperate voice was ringing in my ears as she tried to chase me away once again. I already lost count on how many times she did that, but it was different that night. She was filled with conviction that I was afraid I might not be able to change her mind anymore.

Seeing her breaking down, a part of me also broke at the same time. I could feel her pain. I was angry at everyone who made her feel worthless. I was even more determined to show other people what I saw in her. I didn't come and stay in Roxas to waste my time. Right from the start, I knew she's worth it.

At that point, I didn't mind if I'd go back to square one. I promised myself that I'd do anything for Aleena to start believing in herself again. I wanted her to realize her own potential. I was more concerned of that rather than the survival show. I swore to myself that I would stay by her side until she could finally carry herself with pride and walk on her own.

At least, that's what I thought until the feelings I have for her shifted into a form that I never thought it would. I found myself not wanting to be away from her.

Aleena was obviously avoiding me.

I hated to admit that Isaiah might be right. Kahit na alam kong may parte sa kanyang gusto lamang mang-inis, hindi ko maipagkailang may katotohanan ang kanyang mga sinabi. Iyon nga ang dahilan kung bakit ko dinala si Aleena sa isla na pagmamay-ari ng aking mga magulang.

"You are so dense when it comes to these things, Ike," Isaiah playfully chuckled and put his guitar down.

My forehead creased. He seemed to be enjoying watching me anxious. I was already regretting meeting up with him.

"It should be obvious," he said with a smug look like he was some kind of expert.

It irritated me that he wasn't being direct with his words. Isaiah really took the advantage to play with my confused feelings.

"When we picked up Ida the other day at the studio, I already got a feeling." He nodded to himself. "Aleena looked like she was forcing a smile when she greeted us. Kahit si Zendaya ay napansin iyon."

Inayos ko ang pagkakaupo ko sa sofa dahil mukhang hindi ko nagugustuhan kung saan patungo ang usapan.

"Hindi malabong nagselos sa inyong dalawa si Aleena," sabi niya. "Siguro ay masyado kang naging malapit sa kapatid ko habang nandoon siya. It's actually a no brainer why Aleena started avoiding you."

I shook my head in disagreement. "I'm sure that's not the case."

Bakit naman siya magseselos?

Napataas ang kanyang isang kilay bago nag-iwas ng tingin sa akin. "Let's not kid ourselves, Ike. I know that you're really close with my sister. Kahit si Blair nga ay inakalang may namamagitan sa inyong dalawa noon," paliwanag niya habang nakangiting tinitingnan ang gold metal pick na binigay ni Zendaya. "To be honest, it's very obvious that she likes you. Hindi malabong ganoon din ang isipin ni Aleena lalo na't hindi niya naman kilala si Ida."

Initially, I refused to believe in Isaiah. But every time I would look at Aleena, who wasn't in her usual self, his voice would echo inside my head. His words weighed so heavily. I couldn't bare seeing her acting indifferent and stressed out. I didn't really understand at first why it hurt, but it did. Iyon ang dahilan kung bakit wala akong pag-aalinlangan na dinala siya sa isla upang makapagbakasyon.

I wanted to take her away from the city. I wanted her to relax and forget about her worries. I hoped to be the one to make her smile and fill her days with only happiness.

Nilingon ko siya nang makitang makalayo-layo na ako. She was having a hard time going down of the steep path. Every time she would take a step, my heart was trying to jump out of my chest. Pakiramdam ko ay parang bumagal ang paglipas ng bawat segundo habang hinihintay ko siyang papunta sa akin.

My feet were itching to walk and meet her halfway, but I stayed rooted to where I stood. I patiently waited while watching her took her time and walked on her own pace. As she gradually closed the distance in between us, the eagerness I felt in my heart to be with her intensified. And when I saw her falling from the railings of our rest house, my heart fell with her.

The thought of losing her in any possible way drained the color from my face. There was an intense feeling of anxiety shot through my nerves. The pleasant feeling inside me evaporated. I encouraged her to face her fears and jump, but in the end, I was the one who got scared.

Without any second thought, I wrapped my arms around her waist and quickly pulled her out of the water the moment her body sank. When we reached the surface, she opened her eyes which met mine. I locked my gaze on her and pulled her closer because of the waves.

Our noses nearly touched. My flustered heart went back to its original position. Naramdaman kong bumalik ang init sa aking mukha, ngunit hindi tuluyang nawala ang aking kaba.

"I take that back," I said under my breath, almost not making a sound. "Please don't try it again."

"Bakit?" Muli niyang inangat ang tingin sa akin. "Masaya naman. I really enjoyed it."

Trying to calm myself, I closed my eyes and shook my head. "It's not fun watching you fall. I don't like it."

Her lips parted and didn't say anything else, so I took that as a yes. My parents also came like what I expected, but I didn't know they'd come way earlier than what I predicted.

Alam kong kapag nalaman ni mommy na mayroon akong dinala rito sa isla ay hindi niya palalagpasin ang pagkakataon. Hindi naman ako nagkamali. She was all over Aleena the moment she arrived with my father.

"Ike, tawagin mo na si Aleena please. We have to eat breakfast na," my mother excitedly asked me for a favor while placing the dishes on top of the table.

A smile was tugging my lips when I placed both my hands on top of the dining table. I tried to get my mother's attention by staring intently at her, but she was acting like I wasn't even around.

"Mom, I know what you're doing..." I pointed out her very obvious intention.

She acted innocent when she lifted her head to look at me. "What do you mean? I don't know what you're talking about."

"Mom..." I lowered the pitch of my voice. "You've been trying to be a matchmaker since yesterday. Alam kong sinusubukan mo kaming paglapitin lalo ni Aleena."

"And what's wrong with that?" She pursed her lips and put her hands on her waist. "Aleena is a very nice girl. I really like her for you and I can see that you also do. You wouldn't take her here if you don't. I'm just trying to help you out."

Pigil na pigil akong mangiti habang tinitingnan ang aking ina na seryoso sa kanyang pinaglalaban. I really couldn't hide anything from her.

"Hayaan ninyo na pong ako ang mismong kumilos," mahinahon kong sabi sa kanya.

"At kailan mo pa ba balak kumilos?" Napairap siya sa akin, halatang hindi naniniwala. "Ang bagal-bagal mo! Para kang pagong! Kahit pagpaparamdam ay mukhang wala ka pang ginagawa!"

"Huwag na po kayong mag-alala." I smiled with confidence to reassure her. "I'll make a move once the show is over."

As someone who's been in the industry for years, I knew it wasn't a wise thing to act on my feelings at that time. It was a very crucial moment for Aleena. She'd gained a lot of public's interest during the survival show. She was currently topping the rankings.

Sigurado akong nakamata sa kanya ang media. They were patiently waiting to see a crack on her wall, so that it'd be easy for them to destroy her and take her down. Isang pagkakamali lamang ay guguho ang lahat ng kanyang pinaghirapan.

"Ike, you know very well that Aleena can't be linked to you," problemadong-problemado si Mr. Joel habang pinapakita sa aking ang iilang litrato naming dalawa ni Aleena na kanyang binili sa media upang hindi maisapubliko. "Madaming oportunistang nakaabang. They can easily twist your relationship with her into something unethical. It might not end your career, but for Aleena, it would surely ruin her reputation. She might also be forced to withdraw from the survival show."

Once Aleena and I were back from our quick vacation, Mr. Joel summoned me and said that he needed to speak with me before my schedule for that day. I didn't expect that it would be something grave.

With a heavy sigh, regret and guilt started to fill my chest. I dropped the pictures on top of the desk. There were several photos of us. We were always spotted in two different towers—the condominium near Top Star and the other one where New Classic's private studio was located. It only meant one thing—we were really being stalked and followed.

I couldn't help but feel disappointed with myself. I thought I was already being careful. But then, Aleena's career was on the line because of my recklessness. I wasn't responsible enough.

"Look, I don't want to blame you," maingat niyang sabi. "Alam kong ayaw mo rin 'tong mangyari. Let's just be thankful that the media approached us first. Now, we should exert more effort to prevent this from happening again. Dito mo na siya papuntahin for practice at huwag na sa private studio ninyo. Kapag sinabi natin sa media na mayroon kayong private sessions ni Aleena, it would be unfair to Willow. That's why as much as possible, please do avoid seeing Aleena outside Top Star."

My jaw clenched repeatedly. Although I knew it'd be hard for me to restrain myself, it wasn't the time to be stubborn. I needed to remember that I'm not just Ike Rolloque. I'm not just an ordinary guy. I'm the leader of New Classic and Aleena's mentor in Road to Records.

After mulling over his orders, with my lips on a grim line, I sat straight and nodded. "I don't have any problem with that," I told him. "But please don't let Aleena hear anything about this."

"Of course! Walang problema." Mr. Joel sighed in relief. Para bang nang makitang sumang-ayon ako sa kanyang sinabi ay saka lamang siya nakahinga nang maluwag.

However, our problem didn't just end there. Little did we know that there was an even bigger issue that we would face.

"I-it's my song..." Aleena hoarse voice cracked as tears rolled down her cheeks. "It's the song I made for my m-mot—"

Drawing in a tight breath, I pulled her closer and wrapped my arms around her. The tears flowing from her eyes were like sharp knives cutting through my core. At the same time, the anger I had for the person who did her wrong was overwhelming.

My hands were shaking. I knew I needed to do something. I wanted to curse and let all my emotions out. I had never been that mad. But I knew it wasn't the time to lose control over myself. And so, I held my cool demeanor as I comforted her.

"I know, I know..." My voice was soft and calm as I caressed her back. "I'll fix this, Aleena. I promise you that. I'll go to Top Star and speak with the management to deal with this."

The higher ups better not know about Willow's schemes. If they do, I'm afraid I'd have to cut ties with Top Star. I don't want to be involve with scheming people, and I won't ever allow New Classic's name to be stained by their wrongdoings.

"I got you. You have me," I whispered but I managed to keep my voice firm. "Just trust me."

Kahit hirap sa aking pakawalan si Aleena noong mga oras na iyon ay kinailangan ko pa ring gawin. Kapag mas mabilis akong umalis ay mas mabilis kong maaayos ang lahat para sa kanya.

With determination to fix the mess for her, I entered Top Star's building with my chin up. While on the way, I asked Mr. Joel for an urgent meeting with the executives. I didn't care if I'd look like I was abusing my power and reputation. I wouldn't let this day pass without speaking to them.

Sinalubong ako ni Mr. Joel pagkalabas ko ng elevator. Mukhang natataranta at kinakabahan na rin siya sa nangyayari.

"What happened, Ike?" he erratically asked while following me to the conference room. "Why did you suddenly call for a meeting? Is there any problem?"

"Are they already here?" I coldly asked without answering his question.

He's been our manager since our pre-debut days. We went through a lot together. I know him well but I still wanted to be careful. I didn't want to doubt him but he's also an employee at Top Star. I wasn't sure where his loyalty will lie if our relationship with the company would end badly.

Will he rebel with us, or will he stay at Top Star?

"Nandyan na sila," agad niyang sagot.

I pushed the door of the conference room open. All heads turned my way as I entered and sat right in front of the president. Pinasadahan ko ng tingin ang buong silid. Gaya ng gusto kong mangyari, nandito lahat ng may matataas na puwesto sa kompanya. Some of them who were intimidated by my appearance averted their gazes.

"Ike, what's the problem?" President Theo asked me, his voice was calm and composed. "Why did you suddenly call for an urgent meeting? Is there any problem with New Classic or—"

"I won't go around the bush, President Theo," I cut him off and leaned forward. "Willow stole Aleena's song for Road to Records' finals."

The president's eyes widened in surprise. He turned to the vice president who mirrored the same reaction. The other executives whispered to each other, like it was such a big news. They also looked worried.

My eyes narrowed as I watched their expressions. If my judgement is right, it's possible that they don't know anything about Willow's schemes.

"I agreed to be Willow's mentor in Road to Records because we're under the same company. But I'm afraid that her actions are beyond my limits. I won't let this pass, President Theo," I firmly said. "I'm ready to file a case against her."

"I understand, Ike," President Theo calmly said and turned his head to his secretary. "Please contact Willow's manager. Tell her to come to the conference room right away. No excuses," he ordered. "And to the other executives, you can all return to your office."

"Are you sure, Theo?" the vice president asked him.

"Of course. You should also go back to your office," simpleng sabi ni President Theo. "Ako na ang bahala rito."

Kahit nag-aalangan ay umalis ang iba sa loob ng conference room. Kami lamang nina President Theo at Mr. Joel ang naiwan. Nanatili kaming tahimik hanggang sa dumating na ang manager ni Willow kasama ng secretary ni President Theo.

"Pasensya na po kung ngayon lang ako," paghingi niya ng paumanhin at saka nagmadaling umupo sa bakanteng upuang malayo sa aming dalawa.

When her eyes met mine, it shot wide open. She looked guilty as she turned away.

I remained sporting a straight face as I clenched my fist.

"Thank you for coming here," President Theo was still courteous and polite with her.

"W-wala pong problema."

Tumango si President Theo na may maliit na ngiti sa kanyang labi. "As you can see, Ike and his manager, Mr. Joel, are also here with us."

Hilaw na ngumiti sa aming dalawa ni Mr. Joel ang manager ni Willow. Hindi ko nga lang magawang umarte na nagagalak akong makita siya.

"Now, let's move on to the matter at hand." The smile on President Theo's lips vanished in an instant. His eyes turned grim and dark. "He told me that Willow stole a song that Aleena wrote. Do you know anything about this?"

Puno ng takot ang mga mata ng manager ni Willow. Kung magsisingungaling pa siya, kahit na halatang-halata na sa kanyang itsura ang katotohanan, ay baka hindi ko mapigilan ang aking sarili. I'd make sure that her career would end with Willow.

"You know, what we want right now is the truth." Kalmado pa rin ang boses ni President Theo. "Kung pipiliin mong pagtakpan ang ginawa ng iyong alaga at napatunayan naming may alam ka sa kanyang ginawa, makakasiguro kang hindi ka na makakahanap pang muli ng trabaho. I don't need anyone staining Top Star's reputation."

"Binayaran po ako ni Willow para tumahimik," agad niyang pag-amin dahil sa takot. Hinalungkat niya ang kanyang bag at naglabas ng mga papel. "She ordered me to register the copyright of Aleena's song under her name. Ginawa niya 'yon para kung sakaling kantahin ni Aleena ang kanta ngayong rehearsal nila ay iyon ang magpapatunay na sa kanya ang kanta."

Si Mr. Joel ang nag-abot ng papel matapos itong pasadahan ng tingin ni President Theo. Inilapit niya iyon sa akin upang mabasa. Just glancing at the ridiculous paper already made it hard for me to contain my anger. All the emotions inside me were bubbling like it was about to explode.

"I see..." Iyon lamang ang sinabi ni President Theo at saka ako binalingan ng tingin. "Ano ang gusto mong gawin, Ike? She can be a witness if you want to file a case against Willow."

I racked my brain to think of what move I should do. However, I had a feeling that it wouldn't be that easy to solve the problem. It seemed that Willow made all the preparations she needed. She was desperate to bring Aleena down and win the survival show. Siguro ay naisip niyang magtataka ang mga tao kapag siya ang biglang mananalo sa Road to Records kaya hindi na niya inisip pang bayaran ang production team upang dayain ang mga boto. Pinag-isipan niya ito nang mabuti.

"Ano pa ang alam mo?" malamig kong tanong sa manager ni Willow.

Napalunok siya, nanginginig ang mga labi. "W-Willow also hinted the media regarding your off cam relationship with Aleena. Unti-unti niyang pinapakalat na hindi lamang mentor-mentee ang relasyon ninyong dalawa," muli niyang pag-amin."She did that as a preparation to counter your accusations once you find out about the song she stole... Sasabihin niyang pinaparatangan ninyo lang siya dahil may relasyon kayong dalawa ni Aleena; na gusto ninyo siyang masira para sigurado ang pagkapanalo ni Aleena sa Road to Records."

At that point, I already lost my self-control and punched the table with my fist. Gulat na napadiretso ng upo si Mr. Joel at saka ako nilingon.

"Ike, sa tingin ko ay kailangan muna nating palagpasin ang finals," suwestyon ni Mr. Joel.

"Then, what about Aleena's song?" I asked him, feeling frustrated. "I told her I'd bring her song back to her. I promised her!"

The least thing I wanted to do was to break my promise to her. I had a feeling that she was already doubting my intentions. Alam kong iniisip niyang may kinalaman ako sa nangyari. Hindi ko naman siya masisisi. She had trust issues. But if I'd let this pass—even for a day—it would be like admitting that I was conspiring against her with Willow. She would definitely hate me.

Can I live with that? Of course, not!

"Kapag kinasuhan mo si Willow ngayon, madadamay at madadamay ang pangalan ni Aleena," Mr. Joel tried to talk sense to me when I couldn't think straight. My mind was too clouded with anger and frustration. "And if Willow will do as she planned, it will stain Aleena's name even more. As much as possible, she should avoid having negative issues before the finals. She doesn't need any bad publicity. It won't do her good at this point, especially if the news would be related to you."

The feeling of frustration was too strong for me that I chose to stay silent.

"I have to agree on Mr. Joel," President Theo voiced out his opinion. "As much as I also want to deal with Willow and terminate her contract with Top Star right away, it's better to wait until the end of finals. That way, there would be lesser casualties."

After hesitating a lot, I let out a reluctant sigh and met President Theo's gaze. "I understand," I simply acknowledged that we should go for their suggestions. "But know that I won't just sit around. Once the finals is over, I'll give Aleena and her song the justice they deserve."

"No problem." A relieved smile appeared on President Theo's face. "You can trust that Top Star will stand with you and Aleena."

Although I solved the problem with Top Star, I didn't want Aleena to stress over it. I knew how much she wanted to win. When I learned the main reason why she wanted to become a professional singer, I was even more willing to help her achieve that dream. I deliberately didn't tell her about my plans to file a legal case against Willow, so that she could work on a new song without another thing to worry about. All I wanted her to do was to focus on the competition, even if she chose to shut me out.

However, I lost it when she didn't wear the bracelet I gave her. It was like a sign that she was slowly removing me out of her life. On top of that, instead of accepting my help, she chose to rely on Isaiah.

Aleena worked on a song she wrote for me with him. I should be glad that the song confirmed whatever she was feeling for me, but I couldn't help being jealous, especially because I knew she admired him so much for his songwriting skills.

"Why didn't you tell me?!" I poured out the frustration left in me to Isaiah. "You should've told me that you were helping Aleena!"

After the competition, Aleena wanted to be home right away to get some rest. I let her go even though I had been dying to speak with her about the song which held our memories back in Roxas and her feelings for me.

"Why would I tell you, asshole?" he cockily said, anger was seething in his eyes as he looked me.

My brows furrowed. "What did you call me?"

"Asshole," Isaiah simply repeated with clarity. "You deserve to be thrown out by Aleena. I hope she finds someone better than you—"

My patience snapped as Isaiah triggered my bottled emotions to burst. I charged right into him, preparing my fist and aiming for his cheek. But before I could even reach him, Jirro came in between us and pushed me farther from Isaiah.

"Stop right now, you two!" he shouted to stop us from hurting each other. "Let's talk calmly about it. There's no need for a physical fight. Alam kong parehas na mainit ang ulo ninyong dalawa pero tangina!"

"Then tell that motherfucker to clean the mess he made," Isaiah spat with so much anger.

"Isaiah..." mahinahong tawag sa kanya ni Zendaya upang makalma.

"Zen, alam mo kung ano ang ginawa niya. You were there when Aleena told us what happened," iritadong sabi ni Isaiah.

"I know, and I told you that we should listen to his reasons first. It's not fair if we won't listen on both sides. Ike also deserves a chance," Zendaya reminded him. "Please, Isaiah... Deep inside you, I know you believe in Ike and his decisions. Let's hear him out, okay?"

Mariing kinagat ni Isaiah ang kanyang mga labi. Walang salita siyang padarag na naupo sa sofa. Napabuntonghininga naman si Jirro nang kumalma si Isaiah at saka ako nilingon na para bang hinihintay akong magpaliwanag.

"I guess you already knew about the issue with Willow," I said, finally calm from the sudden outburst of my emotions. "She stole Aleena's song and performed it during the finals. She also registered for a copyright under her name. It's a song Aleena wrote for her mother. I know how much it means to her."

"Kung ganoon, bakit wala kang ginawa?" malamig na tanong ni Isaiah. "Bakit hinayaan mo lang siya?"

"I talked to the executives that day," I confessed. "President Theo and I spoke with Willow's manager. Her plans are not as simple as you think. She came well-prepared for a dirty fight. We decided not to file a case against Willow yet. Mas mabuting patapusin muna ang finals, pero nag-iipon na ako ng ebidensya laban sa kanya. Bukas na bukas din ay aayusin ko na ang kanyang kaso."

Isaiah's anger subsided when he heard my reasons, but he stayed silent.

"And you didn't tell Aleena about it because?" Jirro asked.

"I thought it's best if she wouldn't know and just focus on the competition," I reasoned out. "But I was wrong..."

The room was filled with silence until Isaiah made a move and stood up. He slowly walked towards me and gave me a controlled punch on my stomach. Napayuko ako at inilagay ang kamay sa ibabaw ng aking tiyan. It hurt but I knew I deserved that blow, so I just smiled.

"Isaiah!" tawag sa kanya ni Zendaya.

Hindi natinag si Isaiah sa tawag ng minamahal. Diretso ang kanyang seryosong mga matang nakatingin sa akin.

"I'm so mad at you," Isaiah said with so much intensity. I knew he meant those words. "You know why I didn't tell you that Aleena came to me? It's because I know it's the only time I can help you."

His bloodshot eyes were filled with unshed tears. There were too much emotion that it left me speechless.

"I'm so mad that you would always try to keep things to yourself. You were always trying to solve problems on your own. Kahit sa banda, lagi mong pinapasan ang lahat ng problema," sabi niya. "I know you're our leader, but we are one team, Ike. More than that, we are your best friends. We are your brothers. Kahit minsan lang, hayaan mong tulungan ka namin. You can count on us, too."

Nilingon ko si Jirro. Nag-iwas siya agad ng tingin sa akin na para bang ayaw niyang ipakita ang kanyang mukha.

Slowly, the corners of my lips raised into a smile as I looked back at Isaiah. I lifted my hand, reached out to his head, and ruffled his hair roughly. Iritadong tinaboy ni Isaiah ang aking kamay kaya hindi ko na napigilan ang pagtawa.

"Thank you," I wholeheartedly expressed how grateful I am to meet them.

Kinagat ni Isaiah ang kanyang ibabang labi at nag-iwas na rin ng tingin sa akin. "Don't look at me."

Mas lalo akong natawa. Napatingin din tuloy ako kina Zendaya at Cloé. Parehas silang emosyonal sa nasaksihan na pangyayari.

"Damn it! I didn't make it! Tapos na raw!"

Sumabog ang pintuan na dahilan kung bakit kaming napalingon lahat sa kararating lamang na si Sic. He looked puzzled when he sensed the heavy atmosphere inside the lounge.

"I thought Aleena won the contest?" he cluelessly asked. "Bakit may iyakan?"

"Panira ka talaga kahit kailan!" Agad siyang sinunggaban ni Jirro upang guluhin din ang pagkaayos-ayos na buhok nito.

I pursed my lips to stop myself from laughing. Ngunit nang nagkatinginan kami ni Isaiah ay hindi na rin niya napigilan ang pagtawa. Lumapit na rin kami kay Sic upang tulungan si Jirro sa pagparusa sa kanya.

Nang kumalma kaming apat ay naupo kami sa lounge. Instead of sitting on the couch, we sat on the floor. We ordered takeaways. Hinayaan kaming apat nina Zendaya at Cloé na magsama para sa gabing iyon, lalo na't kadarating lamang ni Sic.

"I heard Aleena's going home after dealing with Willow," Isaiah informed me.

"Aba! Ike Rolloque tatakbuhan?" natatawang sabi ni Sic at halatang gusto lamang mang-inis. "Ayaw niya siguro sa 'yo kasi boring ka."

"Gago." Isaiah punched Sic on his arm for me.

Napangiti ako ngunit inisip ko rin ang sinabi ni Sic.

Am I really boring? But Aleena likes me...

"Anyway, huwag mo nang pansinin si Sic. What are you planning to do now?" Isaiah asked while drinking his cola.

"Hmm... Tutulungan ko siyang asikasuhin ang pagkaso kay Willow," sabi ko at sinubukang ialis sa aking isipan ang sinabi ni Sic. "Kung gusto niyang umuwi pagkatapos no'n, hindi ko siya pipigilan."

Nagtaas ng kilay sa akin si Jirro. "Hindi mo pipigilan pero susundan mo naman?"

I smirked at him. "Don't ask like you didn't follow Cloé in Talavera."

I knew Aleena needed time to heal because of what happened in Manila. If she wanted to go home, I wouldn't stop her. But I wouldn't let her go on her own. I would follow her back to Roxas and pursue her again. That just like in her song, we will do it one more time. I don't care if we have to repeat it more than a hundred times, as long as she will chose to be with me in the end.

And at the end of my line of sight, Aleena smiled when she caught me staring at her, but she immediately tore her eyes away when Zendaya said something to her. Seeing the four girls get along, just like how we guys are, I couldn't help but wear a proud smile on my face. It almost seemed like I could see ourselves in them.

"Kailan kaya sila maghihiwalay-hiwalay?" Nakasimangot na tanong ni Sic nang makalapit sa akin pagkaalis ni Mr. Joel. "Simula ng dumating kami ni Lavinia rito ay hindi na nila pinakawalan."

Sumunod na rin sina Isaiah at Jirro. Lahat kaming apat ay nakatingin lamang sa iisang direksyon, nagmamasid at nagbabantay.

"Just let them be. Minsan lang sila nagkakasama," Jirro casually told him. "You know they want to bond with her so much."

"Minsan lang din kami nagkakasama!" Sic rolled his eyes. "You're just cool with it because you're already living under the same roof with Cloé. Ayos lang sa 'yo kahit hindi kayo lagi magkasama."

"That's not true," Isaiah objected and sipped on his wine. "Even though I live with Zendaya now, I still want her beside me all the time."

A small smile escaped my lips. I could definitely relate to Isaiah.

The construction of our beach house in Green Paradise Island just finished last month. Aleena and I had not moved yet, but we were already living together in my house at Forbes while she was working on her debut album with First Class Label.

Pagkatapos ng party ay lilipad kami papuntang isla para tingnan ang bahay. I would have her all night—or a whole week—to myself. Kaya naman ayos lang sa akin na nakamasid lamang sa kanya habang kasama niya ang mga nahanap na kaibigan.

Bandang huli, dahil alam naming wala kaming magagawa upang mapaghiwalay ang apat, hinayaan na namin sila. We sat and drunk wine on our table while talking about our future plans for First Class Label. Sa susunod na taon ay maglalabas ulit kami ng bagong album. We wanted the public to focus on Aleena first so we had to delay our own comeback, and I was grateful to the guys for doing that for her.

She deserves the spotlight. She deserves that moment.

"Ike..."

Nilingon ko si Aleena na nakalapit na sa aking tabi. The other members also got busy with their own world while I focused on mine.

"Why?" I asked her and patted my thigh, pointing out where she should sit. "Is my baby tired now?"

She sat on my thigh, pouted and shook her head. "But I want to go home now," she said, and then her eyes twinkled as she became suddenly excited. "Gusto ko nang makita ang bahay natin! Hindi na ako makapaghintay!"

Bahay natin.

My smile reached the corners of my eyes. If anyone could see me, I was sure they'd find me so whipped because of her.

Aleena used to have so many fears when it comes to the uncertainty of her future. She had a lot of trust issues as a result of her experiences with opportunistic scammers and from believing that her father heartlessly left them when she was still a baby. Even when she finally agreed to become my girlfriend, I knew she still had a hard time seeing her future with me. She was scared of getting hurt and being left behind.

When she thought she was pregnant with our child, it heightened her fear that she might end up as a single mother. She feared that I would leave her. It hurt me but I couldn't blame her. I knew I had to be patient as she slowly healed and freed herself from the chaos inside her—until she finally found the beautiful rhythm in midst of it.

So now, every time I would hear her talk about our home and our future with so much enthusiasm, I'm always filled with pride, relief and happiness. Those words couldn't even encompass the feeling of being trusted and loved by the woman I want to spend my life with.

"Okay..." I gently caressed her cheek and nodded. "We will go home now."