Hi, peaches. This chapter is in present time na. Meaning, iyong nasa prologue na events nandito na rin sa chapter na ito. Ilalagay ko na lang para hindi kayo maconfuse, may nakoconfuse kasi, e, like, "Ha, paano 'to nangyari? Wala naman ganito sa previous chapter.", baka kasi nakalimutan na iyong nangyari sa prologue kaya ayon. Skl, ha. Thank you, I love you. ♥ -peachyangelus

Chapter 32: Waitress

I stayed at the Riverbank in Marikina. Dito ako napadpad, and I don't even know why. I checked in the near hotel to settle my things first before going out.

Hindi masyadong mainit dahil nasa lilim din naman ako, though the river isn't that attractive. Marumi. But, I like where I am. Refreshing, relaxing ganoon. Nasa bench lang ako malapit sa mga estatwa ng kalabaw na nasa gilid ng ilog.

Staring at nowhere. I started to think what'd I do next. I changed my phone number, but I left my friends' number because I promised I'll update them. Sabi ko, nasa Marikina ako and they don't have to worry, may pera pa naman ako, and I also left some of my credit cards there, ipifreeze rin naman kapag nalamang lumayas ako.

Hindi ko man lang naisip na lumayas noon pa. Tutal, wala naman ako lagi sa bahay at ayaw ko rin namang nandoon bakit hindi ko piniling umalis at tumira na lang nang mag-isa?

I saw some vendors. At napaisip ako, ano naman ang gagawin ko? What if I run out of money? Should I start a job hunting? Ano naman ang tatrabahuin ko?

Iyan ang laman ng isip ko for days. I just stayed in a hotel to rest, I am too drained from the problems I had. I was walking somewhere when I saw a restaurant.

Arblivan.

This is new.

I walked inside and roamed my eyes. It has a modern style. Just a light ambiance. Cream, white, and brown lang ang madalas na kulay ang nasa loob.

They are hiring for waitress.

But I can't see myself as a waitress, I didn't even know how to serve myself sometimes.

I was about to walk back when I bumped into someone.

"Sorry, miss," he apologized and picked those blueprints— I guess, scattered on the floor. 

"Excuse me," I called so he stopped on his track.

"Yes? What's up?"

"Are you working here?" I asked.

"Hmm, what do you mean?"

I was about to speak when someone called him.

"Jace, dala mo na ba iyong copy? Sa third branch daw sana iyan, sa Taytay?"

"Hmm, yes po. I'll inform Papa once I get back. Excuse me," he said politely to the guy he's talking to before he looked at me. "Sorry for that, what is it again?"

"I'm asking if you're working here? Hmm, I just wanna ask if... I can apply?" Never did I imagine I'll do this, but I have to. I want to try this.

Wow, since when did I become like this?Independent-wanna-be.

"Oh, that. My apologies, but I am not exactly working here."

"Oh, I want to apply, kanino ako lalapit?"

"Sa manager, yata. Wait, come with me."

I nodded and followed him from behind. Malayo ang Marikina kung saan sina Mommy, so I don't have to worry.

"Ms. Bretella, someone wants to apply."

"Okay, please come in."

The manager looked at me from head to foot once I entered her office. I don't have to be nervous, I am scared to no one.

"What's your full name?"

"Persian Audrey Valderama," I answered.

"Huh? I mean..." The guy scratched the back of his head, I didn't notice he also entered the room. "Can you repeat your name?" he asked me.

Ms. Bretella, the manager, cleared her throat. "Jace, balita ko may girlfriend ka."

"Ah, yes, of course. Medyo familiar lang kaya nagtanong ulit ako. Sorry, this is just nothing, huwag mo 'ko isumbong," pagsusumamo niya sa manager atsaka nagmadaling umalis.

"Sure ka bang mag-aapply ka?" she asked again.

"I wouldn't go this far if I was just kidding around," I answered.

She looked at me. "Do you have an experience?"

I sighed. "Wala."

"Okay, you're hired."

I stiffened before looking at her in disbelief. "That fast? Or is this some kind of joke?"

"Ayaw mo pa?"

"But, I don't have an experience, so why are you hiring me?"

She gestured me to sit down, so I did.

"I hired you because you want a job. Paano ka magkakaexperience kung hindi ka tatanggapin sa trabaho? This is how this business runs. Kaya nga ang saya ko nang tanggapin akong manager kahit wala akong degree noong college. This got my hopes high again."

My lips parted. Is this true? I mean, it's rare.

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah. The owner is so kind, ibang-iba talaga. Don't worry, you'll be trained well lalo na kung gusto mo talaga ang trabaho mo. I'll explain it to you, sign this application form first." She handed me a paper and a pen, so I accepted it.

Two days passed. I am now working under Arblivan's restaurant. Mahirap, I could say. Nakakahiya... sobra. Serving for the costumers... I never did expect any of these to happen, but I need it. Nauubusan na ako ng pera, at desisyon ko 'to, kaya dapat ay panindigan ko.

"Saan ka pala nagi-stay?" tanong ng manager.

I pursed my lips. "Sa hotel as of now. Wala akong mahanap, and... I don't think I can afford a condo," I shyly said.

Yesterday, I tried to look for a condo, kaso halos lahat hindi ko afford. And thinking of my needs, mas kailangan kong pag-gastuhan iyon. I don't know what happen, but in just a span of days... I learned saving money. Hindi gaya dati na bibilhin ko kung ano iyong makita ko. Iba ngayon, kailangan kong magtipid for me to survive. I chose this path.

"Wala ka bang ibang income bukod dito?"

I nodded.

"Naku, hindi ko alam, ha? Pero mukhang anak mayaman ka, hindi ka sanay sa mga gawain tapos condo pa talaga ang hinahanap mo. May alam akong apartment at affordable naman, are you interested?"

Napaangat ako ng tingin. "Really?"

So, that was what happened. Nang day-off ko ay pinuntahan ko ang address na ibinigay sa akin ng manager. I looked for a good apartment, and actually it was fine... well, I do not have a choice.

"3,000 ang down, hija. Mag-isa ka lang, ikaw ang sasalo sa tubig at kuryente, s'yempre. Ano kukunin mo ba?" the landlady said.

"Hmm, can I check it first?"

"Arte, sige, pasukin mo, tawagin mo na lang ulit ako kapag nakapagdesisyon ka na. Ichicheck ko lang iyong magrerenta pang isa."

I nodded.

My face went pale when I saw the apartment she's talking about. I swear, mas malaki pa yata ang kuwarto ko kaysa rito. Hindi naman marumi, pero hindi ko gusto. There was a mini bathroom and a sink, tapos mini sala, and... a bed, it was too small.

I sighed. No, I can do this. I won't be living my life the way I used to.

Kinuha ko na iyong apartment, medyo malayo pa sa pinagtatrabahuan ko, pero ayos na kaysa naman maubos na lahat ng savings ko kakastay sa hotel, e, hindi ko rin naman nagagamit dahil nasa trabaho ako.

My phone beeped.

Marga:

Saan ka ngayon? Puntahan ka namin. Just wanna know if you're doing good.

I sighed. I sent her a message where I am, sa convenience store lang ako nakipagkita dahil ayaw kong malaman nila kung saan ako nag-istay. Ubos na nga ang pera ko at wala pa akong nabibiling gamit.

"Musta ka na? Saan ka tumutuloy ngayon?" si Rhiane.

I didn't answer.

"Audrey, ayos ka pa ba? Alam mo namang nandito lang kami," si Marga.

"I know... I am fine." I don't know, pero hindi pa man ako tumatagal parang suko na agad ako. Parang tanga lang kasi masiyado akong naging impulsive, tapos in the end susuko lang din pala.

"Umayos ka nga. Saan ka tumutuloy ngayon? May pera ka pa ba r'yan?"

I swallowed hard. "Can I have a favor?" I need this. I want to settle down.

"'Sus, ito naman! Oo naman."

"I need money right now... Promise, ibabalik ko kaagad after maibigay iyong salary ko."

Natawa silang pareho. "Parang tanga 'to! Hindi mo naman kailangang bayaran!" Rhiane even had the urge to roll her eyes at me.

"Oo nga, dati nga libo-libo lagi mong nililibre sa 'min, pero hindi naman sa may utang na loob kami sa 'yo kaya ayos lang. S'yempre, what are friends for?" si Marga. "Tell me, sa mga gamit mo ba 'yan? Sasamahan ka na namin ni Rhiane bumili, kami bahala sa lahat basta maging ayos ka lang. Tapos bibigyan kita ng pera! No need to pay me back, mahal kaya kita!"

Nakakahiya man, but I can't step back to this. Badly needed. "Thank you, and ayos lang iyong mga gamit lang talaga... actually, I rented a cheap apartment."

"Talaga? Ayos ka lang ba roon?"

"Yeah, I'll try."

"Sa totoo lang, nagugustuhan kong sinusubukan mong ganito, Audrey, pero sana huwag ka mahihiya sa 'min, ha? Magkakaibigan tayo, at kahit ano'ng problema, tayo-tayo rin ang magkakasama," si Rhiane.

"Yeah, thanks."

"Tara na, baka hanapin na ng parents si Rhiane. Pinagbawalan pa naman siya—"

Rhiane quickly covered Marga's mouth. "Ang ingay mo..."

My face darkened. "Am I missing something?"

"Ah, ano..." They looked at each other and sighed. "Ingay mo kasi, e, ikaw magsabi, bahala ka."

"Pinagbawalan si Rhiane na makipagkita sa 'yo after that night... sorry, ha? Nagcut na nga lang kami ng class para makita ka namin... bantay-sarado, e."

I bit my lower lip and nodded. "I am sorry if I dragged the both of you into this—"

"Uy, ayos lang! Hindi naman iyon problema, masaya nga kami na lumayas ka na roon! I didn't like how they treated you kaya!"

I let out a heartily laugh. "Well, I guess. Let's go, marami pa akong gagawin."

We went to the mall to buy some stuff for my apartment. From kitchen materials, for hygiene, appliances and such.

"Aircon, bili tayo? May aircon ka roon?"

I groaned. That's one of my problem, napakainit at para akong nakakulong.

"Huwag na, mahal ang kuryente." Hindi ko na iniisip iyong mga bagay na mas makakapagpa-satisfy sa 'kin, iniisip ko na lang iyong gastos para roon.

"Ako magbabayad sa kuryente, girl," si Rhiane.

I shook my head. "A fan will do."

"Sige, sabi ng master iyan, e."

Naglakad-lakad na ulit kami para maghanap ng mga fan. Nagkakagulo pa sina Rhiane at Marga sa pagpili habang nandoon lang ako at nakamasid.

"Try mo nga 'tong stand fan. May number, oh? Try mo pindutin iyong number 2 kung ano mayro'n."

"Para sa speed ata itong mga number, Marga, e? Noong pinindot ko iyong number 3 medyo bumilis iyong elise, e."

My lips twisted while listening to their conversation.

"Talaga? Patry nga r'yan, tapat mo sa 'kin tapos pindutin mo iyong pinakalast na number. Number 4 na pinakalast?"

"Oo." Rhiane clicked the number four button while Marga's feeling the air from the fan.

"Ang hina pa rin, e baka mainitan pa rin si Audrey. Wala na bang mas lalakas pa?"

A saleslady approached us. "Good afternoon, ma'am. How can I help you?"

"Sakto. Miss, p'wede magtanong?" Nilapitan ni Marga iyong babae at itinuro ang stand fan. "Wala bang mas mataas na number nito? Like, number 5 hanggang 6? Medyo mahina pa rin iyong hangin, hindi nakakaalis ng init sa ulo."

I chuckled.

"Ma'am, wala pong number 5 sa mga electric fan dito."

"Ganoon? Sa'n ba may available? Sa kabilang mall ba mayro'n?"

"Wala po, ma'am."

"Ay, ayos lang, ma'am. Hanap na lang kami ng iba," singit ni Rhiane at hinila kaming dalawa ni Marga pagkatapos magpasalamat.

At namula kami pare-pareho nang nalaman naming hanggang number 4 lang talaga ang number sa electric fan. Hindi namin alam iyon dahil aircon naman ang mga gamit namin. They even bought me a mini fridge para sa mga frozen foods and some stuff.

Wala rin akong nagawa kun' 'di papuntahin sila sa apartment ko. Nahihiya ako kaya ayaw ko, pero wala akong magagawa.

"Hay naku, paanong hindi ka maiinitan, e, hindi mo naman binuksan ang bintana! May harang lang na plywood, pero dapat inalis mo, tingnan mo 'to ang daming alikabok! Buti naman at nakatiis ka ng isang araw rito?" sermon ni Rhiane. "Buti na lang talaga marunong akong maglinis, at matutulungan kita!"

I giggled. "Well, thanks."

Pagkatapos naming maglinis at mag-ayos ay maaliwalas nang tingnan ang apartment ko. Medyo comfortable na rin ako, kumpleto na ng gamit. I even have a mini sofa and some furniture. Medyo may space pa naman kaya hindi masyadong masikip tingnan. It's well-organized.

Weeks have passed. I actually improved being an independent wanna-be. But I have this annoying co-worker. Siya kasi iyong naka-assign para iguide ako since hindi ko pa gamay ang pagiging waitress.

"Ba't pa kasi aapply-apply, e, hindi naman pala marunong sa gawain."

"Kaya nga nag-apply for experience, 'di ba?" sabat ko.

She rolled her eyes at me. "Wala akong pakialam, arte. Puntahan mo na iyong customers sa kabilang table."

I sighed and ignored her to get the customer's orders.  "Good evening, sir. May I have your order?" I asked. Working here, I get used to treat customers like this. Kung dati hindi ko iyon nagagawa, ngayon kailangan kong gawin kahit labag pa sa 'kin. But I realized, hindi naman iyon nakakasakit sa 'kin, maliban na lang siguro kung iisipin ko ang ego at pride ko. But I set it aside, kailangan ko ng income ngayon, at hindi para alagaan ang ego at pride.

"Ganda mo, miss, ah? Wala akong kasama, can you be my companion?"

I clenched my jaw, trying to fight the urge to slap the menu on his face.

"I am not a fvcking escort," I said through my gritted teeth.

He grinned like an idiot. "P'wede naman nating pag-usapan nang maayos..." He checked me out. "Magkano ba?"

I slammed the menu on the table and glared at him. "In case you forgot, you're in a restaurant and not in a bar. Oorder o patatalsikin kita?"

"Tapang, ah?" He disgustingly licked his lips with his fantasizing eyes on me.

I felt disrespected, so I punched his face... really hard.

I heard gasps, until some went near us.

"Audrey, ba't mo ginawa iyon?!" Shanny almost screamed while looking at the guy with a bleeding nose.

"What's the matter here?" the manager asked.

"He's a pervert," I shortly answered and turned my back to enter the staff room.

I shook my head in disappointment as I took my apron out. I had enough today when Shanny entered.

"Nag-eeskandalo ka na naman, ano ba problema mo? Kung hindi mo kayang pakisamahan ang mga costumer, magresign ka na lang!"

"Don't dictate me, as if may ambag ka sa buhay ko," I said with a warning tone.

She gulped but didn't say anything.

The next days were still like that. I make mistakes, I'll get scolded. But I am immune to it, I know I'll be used to it. It takes time.

"Tip, miss," sabi ng lalaki nang tanungin ko siya kung bakit sobra ang bayad niya.

I smirked before giving him my blank expression. "I don't accept tips." I crumpled the bill and threw it on his face.

"Arte, hindi na lang kunin, bastos pa. Baka ikaw lang magpapabagsak ng resto dahil sa magiging feedbacks nila sa 'tin. Sabihing walang modo ang mga empleyado, e, ikaw lang naman," parinig ni Shanny.

I smiled at her. "Shut the fvck up," I said and passed by her to entertain another costumers.

"MISS, can I have —"

"It's already my out," I cut off and continue walking.

Nang nakarating sa staff room ay hinubad ko ang suot na apron atsaka kinuha ang gamit sa locker nang pumasok si Shanny.

"Ano na namang ginawa mo sa customers, Audrey?"

"Did I do something wrong? Sabi ko lang na out ko na —"

"Kahit na! Dapat kinuha mo pa rin iyong order nila, hindi mo ba magawa iyon? Hindi naman aabot ng oras!" sigaw niya ulit.

I gritted my teeth, getting irritated by her voice.

"8 PM out ko, kaya 8 PM din ako aalis. Ba't hindi ikaw ang gumawa, mamaya pa naman out mo 'di ba?" nagtitimping sagot ko sa kaniya.

Ang kapal ng mukha akala mo naman siya boss dito, eh, parehas nga lang kami ng trabaho.

"Matanggal ka na sana sa trabaho! Malandi!"

Shanny was about to turn her back when I pulled her hair. "What did you just say?"

"Bitawan mo 'ko!"

Hinila ko pa lalo ang buhok niya. "Ulitin mo nga 'yong sinabi mo."

"Bitawan mo sabi ako, eh!"

Dahil sa pagkairita sa malakas na boses niya ay patulak ko siyang binitawan na nagpatumba sa kaniya.

"Isusumbong kita!"

I fakely laughed. "Go ahead. I don't care."

Nagtungo na ako sa pintuan at huminto saglit sa gilid niya. "I'll get back to you next time. Take this as a warning, Shanny," I threatened.

HABANG naghihintay ng bus sa waiting shed ay tumunog ang cellphone ko.

Rhiane:

Aud, nasa Marikina kami ni Margaret ngayon. Nasa'n ka?

Me:

Ano'ng ginagawa niyo rito?

Rhiane:

Hindi ba obvious? Pupuntahan ka namin!

Me:

Just go home, ayaw ko ng maingay ngayon.

Rhiane:

Grabe ka naman! Namiss na kita, eh!

Hindi na ako nag-reply at patuloy na lang na naghintay ng masasakyan.

"There you are!"

Napatalon na lang ako sa gulat nang may biglang lumitaw sa harap ko.

Ngumiti ako, pero nang nakita iyon ni Marga ay kaagad kong ipinawi.

"Oh my! You smiled!" Marga exclaimed.

I rolled my eyes. "No, there's nothing to be happy of."

"Gosh, you're still my girl!" Rhiane tightly hugged me.

"You're overreacting," I said.

"So, ano? Club tayo, treat ko," pag-aaya ni Marga.

I shrugged. "Kayo na lang. I'm living my life peacefully."

"Talaga?"

"Did you just turn down my offer, Audrey?!" pasigaw na ani Marga.

I crossed my arms at them. "Baka nakakalimutan niyong nagbago na ang buhay ko, aren't you guys aware of my situation right now?" I coldly said.

Natutop ni Rhiane ang bibig 'tsaka bumaling kay Marga na masama ang mukha.

"Didn't I tell you too na sa 'min ka nga lang dapat muna?" masungit na sabi niya.

"I won't bother anyone. Kaya ko ang sarili ko." Tumayo ako at hinarap sila. "I'll get going now."

"Wait! 'Di ka sasama sa 'min?" pagtatampo ni Marga.

Umiling ako at mataman silang tinitigan. "Pagod ako ngayon, bye."

I really can't imagine myself being like this. I don't want them to pity me, this is my choice after all.

Unknown number:

Audrey, I honestly got your number from your friend. I won't introduce myself unless you answer my call.

"Who's this again?" I whispered.

Unknown number is calling...

Wala akong nagawa kun' 'di sagutin ang tawag.

"Hello?"

"You answered. What are you up to these days? I asked your mom —"

"Where the hell did you get my number, Kurt? I'll hang up now. And don't you ever call me again." I then hung the call up.

These girls surely gave my number to him.

Me:

Margaret. Did you give my number to him? Do you wanna die?

She replied immediately.

Margaret:

Oh my! Hindi 'no! Baka si Rhiane iyon. I won't betray you, Audrey. Never.

I cursed under my breathe before texting Rhiane.

Me:

What the hell was on your mind, Rhiane?

Rhiane:

What?

Me:

You gave him my number.

Rhiane:

Who? What are you talking about?

Me:

Kurt.

Rhiane:

I didn't.

Ako:

He got my number from my friend. Only you and Margaret are my friends. Marga, didn't do it. What about you?

Rhiane is calling...

"Audrey..."

"What now?"

"I swear didn't give your number to him, but I guess someone did."

"Who?"

"Fiona," she almost whispered.

"What?! How did she get my number in the first place?!" My voice raised.

"Actually..." She breathe heavily. "She threatened me... She'll tell my parents that... I'm still seeing you."

Fuck. Fuck that bitch.

"Okay. Don't you dare to come here anymore, I can't risk it. Just forget about me if you don't want to be punished by your parents. I'll hang up now."

Hindi pa rin ba siya kuntento? She already destroyed my life, pati sa engagement namin ni Kurt siya ang dahilan. And now? She's threatening my friends? What a psycho bitch.

Hindi ako nakatulog nang maayos kagabi kakaisip sa gawain ni Fiona. I really can't understand her. Ano pa ba ang gusto niya? Wala na ako sa bahay, umalis na ako pero bakit ginagambala niya pa rin ako.

At mas lalo pang uminit ang ulo ko nang nagsimula na naman si Shanny sa pagbubunganga sa 'kin. Kapag ako hindi nakapagtimpi talagang kakaladkarin ko na siya, matanggal man ako sa pinagtatrabahuan ko.

"Feelingera ka talaga, Audrey. Akala mo mayaman kung makaasta, eh, waitress ka nga lang dito."

"You bitch, kung wala kang magandang sasabihin pwede bang itikom mo 'yang bunganga mo."

"Eh, kung ayaw ko —" My fist landed on her face. "Ito lagi ang matitikman mo."

Napadaing siya sa sakit habang hawak-hawak ang ilong niya na dumudugo. As if I'm scared.

"Humanda ka talaga sa 'kin!" sigaw niya at patakbong lumabas ng staff room.

"Do whatever you want. I don't fvcking care," I whispered.

And just like that, napatawag ako ng manager.

"Ano'ng ginawa mo sa kaniya, Audrey?"

"I just taught her a lesson not to meddle in anyone's life."

"Tingnan mo, ma'am, sumasagot pa —"

"Quiet, Shanny. I'm asking her, so she'll definitely answer me," sagot ng manager.

Shanny's face paled.

I wanted to laugh on her face, but I would look like an idiot.

"Papalagpasin ko 'to ngayon, but next time... I won't accept all your excuses, got it?"

Tumango kaming dalawa.

"Audrey, pakilinis iyong table 12," utos ni Shanny.

Pumikit ako nang mariin, naiinis. "Inuutusan mo ba 'ko?" gigil na tanong ko.

"Gawain mo naman 'yan, 'di ba? Isa pa, may ginagawa ako rito." Nagpatuloy siya sa pagpupunas ng glass wall.

I applied as a waitress and not a janitress for Pete's sake.

Magdadabog na sana ako nang napansing pinagmamasdan pala kami ng manager kaya wala akong nagawa kun' 'di linisin ang lamesa na may sama ng loob.

"Miss, pakilinis naman dito!" sigaw ng customer sa kabila.

This is so embarrassing.

Nakababa lang ang tingin ko habang nililinisan ang lamesa ng dalawang customer na nanonood sa ginagawa ko. I wanted to cry out of frustration, but I know I'm not that kind of a person.

"Miss, one pesto salad."

My eyes went bigger when I recognized who it was.

"What else, m-ma'am?" I stuttered.

This is life. And look how the tables turned, ang dating Audrey ay pinagsisilbihan ang isang biktima ng bullying dati sa university. Hindi ko maintindihan kung bakit may makikilala ako rito, ayaw kong malaman nila ang sitwastyon ko. And yes, it is hurting my ego.

"A-Audrey?" She looks surprised.

Wala akong nagawa kun' 'di tumango sa kaniya, nahuli na rin naman ako and I don't think she'll spread this ridiculous news that the hot chic Persian Audrey is now a waitress.

"It's me. Nakakagulat ba?"

"Ah, h-hindi naman... Aalis na lang ako —"

"No, stay here. Am I that intimidating?" I arched a brow.

She gulped. "Y-yes."

And it's great. Hindi niya magagawang ipakalat, at hindi naman sa tinatago ko rin ang identity ko. I just don't want to be bothered by anyone.

"Here is your order, Norjana. I won't call you ma'am 'coz it's hurting my ego. Is it okay with you?" Nilapag ko ang plato sa harapan niya habang siya ay nakatitig pa rin sa akin.

"Oo naman..."

I was about to walk away when she called me. "Audrey."

"Yeah, may mali ba sa pagkain? But our cook's amazing —"

"Ah, hindi 'yan. Pwede ba kitang kausapin?"

"For?"

"Uhm, if you won't mind sitting." Tinuro niya ang kaharap na upuan.

I blankly stared at her before sitting. I can't believe I'm following her.

"Thank you sa pagtulong —"

"How many times did I tell you that it was nothing? You don't have to thank me hundred times."

"Sorry, hindi ko lang mapigilan... Kung hindi kasi dahil sa 'yo ay baka hanggang ngayon binubully pa rin ako..."

I bit my lowerlip, getting annoyed of her dramas. "Yeah, fine. You're welcome, happy now?" I gave in.

She smiled. "Thank you so much!"

I rolled my eyes. "Whatever, I'll get back to work now."

"Teka, bakit ka pala... nandito?"

"Isn't it obvious? I'm working here, Norjana."

Natahimik siya at hindi na nag salita ulit.

"You don't have to know all about me. Enjoy your food." I then turned my back at her.

Kinabukasan ay para akong binuhusan nang malamig na tubig. 

"May naghahanap daw sa 'yo! Bingi lang?"

I glared at Shanny. "Can you please mind your own business?"

Why is he here?

Wearing a white long-sleeve polo tucked in with his slacks, Zian's comfortably sitting while waiting for me to come.

Calm down, Audrey. You don't have to act like this in front of him.

"What are you doing here?" panimula ko.

I somehow missed seeing him, but I don't think he feels the same way too.

"Oh, take a seat first," he formally said.

Dahan-dahan akong umupo, hindi makatingin sa kaniya. I wonder how did he know that I was here. I didn't expect anyone to come here looking for me, but him.

"Persian, look at me."

"No."

Alam niyang wala akong mukha na ihaharap ngayon lalo na sa kaniya.

"Why? Am I making you uncomfortable?"

"Yes, you definitely are. So, if you won't mind... may I know why are you here?" I asked without glancing at him.

"I came here to see you."

Napatingin na ako sa kaniya. "Why?"

"I wanted to see you."

I fakely laughed. "Para sa'n naman, Zian?"

He smirked then pouted.

I rolled my eyes. How can this man be hot and cute at the same time?

"Why? Don't you want me to?"

"Cut it off. Paano mo nalamang nandito ako?"

"I have my ways."

"Whatever."

"Won't you ask me anything like... how have you been, did you eat —"

"Wala akong oras, kaya pwede ba?"

He glared at me and finally sighed. "Fine."

"So, why are you here?" I asked again.

"Paulit-ulit? I am here 'coz I wanted to see you. Is that enough?" he sarcastically said.

I kicked his foot under the table. "Don't make me laugh."

He chuckled and leaned closer. "Bakit? Mapapangiti ba kita?"

"I'm not joking around, Zian. I am at my lowest right now," I coldly said.

"Low? I don't think you're in your lowest now. You're still the spoiled-brat Persian Audrey I know."

"I see that you're working here. Are you having a hard time?" dagdag niya.

"Sa tingin mo?"

"I guess, you're not, but wait."

"What?"

"Are you washing dishes here?"

"No." I glared at his amusing expression. What was he thinking again?

"Hmm, that's a relief. Hindi mauubos iyong mga plato."

"I know how to wash plates for your information!"

"Wow, this brat knows how to wash dishes. Are you for real?"

This guy's insulting me. "Zian." I stared at him. "Do you wanna die?"

He smirked and lifted my chin up. "Not yet. Hindi pa ako nakakaganti sa 'yo." He flicked his tounge while staring at my lips.

Hinawi ko ang kamay niya, feeling embarrassed on what I did to him before. "Shut up."

"Oh, by the way. You were in a fight with your co-worker," he stated.

My forehead creased.

"What are you talking about? Are you stalking me ever since?"

"Oh, chill." He laughed. "You're still full of yourself. I didn't stalk you, okay?"

"Then why the hell you knew?"

He pursed his lips hiding a smile. "Bakit ka galit?"

"I am not!"

"Edi, hindi."

This jerk.

"I still have many things to do, Zian. Huwag ka nang bumalik ulit dito." Tumayo ako at umalis na.

He didn't even follow me.

But I'm confused on how he got to know that I fought with Shanny? Did he and Shanny know each other?

"Audrey, sa kabila may order."

Magrereklamo na sana ako, pero hindi ko na itinuloy at dumiretso na lang sa itinuro niya, pero kaagad din akong napahinto at dali-daling nagtago sa gilid.

I saw some of my enemies and if they find out that I'm here... in this situation, I am surely doomed.

"Audrey, bilisan mo at marami pang customers!"

"'Di ka tatahimik d'yan, pwede ba saglit lang!" inis na sambit ko kay Shanny.

"What's wrong?"

Parehas kaming napalingon sa likod nang may nagsalita.

"Ay, sir. Ayaw po kasi nitong kasama ko kunin iyong order sa kabila."

I rolled my eyes. What a two-faced bitch.

"Okay, ako na bahala rito. You can go now," Zian said.

Tumango si Shanny at umalis na.

Ang isa sa kanila ay papunta sa direksyon ko kaya dali-dali akong umatras nang hawakan ni Zian ang braso ko.

"What's wrong with you?"

I was about to say something when one of my enemy spoke at my back.

I'm doomed.

"Miss, pakuha naman ng order namin."

Napapikit ako nang mariin. No, I won't let them see me.

Saktong hinila ako ni Zian papalapit sa at igiya ang ulo ko na dahilan nang pagsubsob sa dibdib niya.

"Sorry, but she's not an employee here."

"Ah, sorry!"

"It's okay, she's gone. Let me take their orders, and go to the staff room," Zian whispered.

"Okay, thanks."

I was waiting for Zian when Shanny entered.

"What are you staring at?" I asked when I noticed her stare.

"Sino iyong lalaking kausap mo kanina?"

I eyed her suspiciously. "Why?"

"Mukhang close kayong dalawa."

"And?"

"Curious lang."

I stepped forward towards her. "Ayusin mo 'yang curious na pinagsasabi mo... baka matikman mo ulit 'to." Ipinakita ko sa kaniya ang kamao ko.

"Ang sama mo talaga," sabi niya.

"Oo, masama talaga ako kaya 'wag mo 'kong susubukan."

Hindi na siya sumagot at tinalikuran nalang ako.

"Are they gone?" I asked when Zian entered the staff room.

"They are eating obviously. Mga kaaway mo ba 'yon?"

I stared at him.

"As I thought. You should thank me, Persian, for saving you."

I rolled my eyes.

"AUDREY, someone's looking for you." Lumapit sa akin si Ms. Bretella kinabukasan, nakangiti atsaka itinuro ang table kung saan may nakita akong lalaking nakaupo.

It's him again.

He's now wearing a black shirt and  cargo shorts, while wearing a black cap. 

"You're here again. If you're gonna bother me, just leave."

"Can you please take a seat first?" masungit na aniya.

"And you're getting mad now?" I exclaimed.

"Hindi." Kumalma ang boses niya.

"So, what now?"

He smiled and roamed his eyes at me. "Bagay sa 'yo 'yong uniform mo ngayon."

Nagbaba naman ako ng tingin sa suot na uniform. Nakasuot na kasi ako ng long-sleeve ngayon hindi katulad kahapon na t-shirt lang. I still find this clothes cheap, I used to wear expensive clothes.

"Tigilan mo nga 'ko."

"Okay, I'll be serious now. I'm here to take you out."

I scoffed. "Take... me... out?!"

Halos mapatalon siya sa gulat sa pagsigaw ko. I don't care if people find me something.

"Why would you do that?" I asked again.

He cleared his throat. "Can you calm down, Persian? You're making my heart jump!" He exhaled. "I'll take you out of here, happy now?"

"Bakit?"

"You should come home —"

"Leave. If we'll gonna talk about this, umalis ka na lang."

"Oo, hindi na nga. Ang hirap mo talagang pakiusapan," he muttered.

"Are you saying something?"

"Ah, nothing. Can you walk me around this place instead?" Itinuro niya ang labas kung saan nakikita ang mga mall.

"Ano'ng tingin mo sa 'kin? Amo na iginagala ang aso niya?"

He eyed me before bursting into laughter, nang matapos siya sa kakatawa ay inismiran niya ako. "You have a corny jokes, Persian. Let's go, I already told your manager with your early out."

"Wait, what? Why are you deciding without telling me first?"

"Bakit, kapag sinabi ko ba sasama ka?"

Hindi ako nakapagsalita.

"Oh, 'di ba? Tara na —"

"Papalabasin mo 'ko while wearing this? Seriously?" Problemado kong pinagmasdan ang uniform na suot.

"What's wrong with your clothes? It's fine, maarte ka lang talaga. Bilisan mo, at magbihis ka na matatagalan pa tayo rito," pagtataboy niya sa 'kin at tiningnan ang relo.

Lumabas ako ng suot ang spaghetti dress. Gosh, this is so frustrating. I'm going out with him just wearing this? Naisip ko naman iyong suot niya kaya nakahinga ako nang maluwag. Why am I so problematic when it comes to this?

"You took 20 minutes, nakarating na sana tayo," bungad niya pagkalabas ko.

"Eh, ano naman? Do you have something to do after this?"

"Wala, ito naman... You always jump into conclusions and it's making me nervous."

"Whatever."

Pagkadating namin doon ay tahimik lang akong nagmamasid. Baka hindi ko namalayan na may nakakakilala pala sa 'kin dito at isumbong ako.

"Shit, Persian."

"What?"

"I left my wallet in the hotel."

"Oh, tapos anong gagawin ko? Wait, what? Hotel —"

He covered my mouth. "Lower down your voice. People might get the wrong idea."

Tinanggal ko ang kamay niya. "Why are you in a hotel, Zirdy Ivan?" I whispered angrily.

"I'm staying there for the mean time —"

"You aren't there to bed girls, right? —"

"What the hell, Persian? What are you talking about?"

"I was just asking!" sigaw ko sa kaniya.

"Fine, hindi! Kung ano-ano kasi pinag-iisip, e. Ano, are you treating me or not?"

"No. Why would I do that? Ang yaman mo tapos magpapalibre ka sa 'kin, at baka nakakalimutan mong ikaw ang nagyaya sa 'kin dito."

"Okay, fine. I'll get my wallet in the hotel, then. Wait for me here."

"No way." I grabbed his hand and took him to a restaurant.

Inihagis ko sa kaniya ang menu. "Here, order whatever you want."

I won't let him go back there unless he'll take me there.

"Wow, Persian Audrey's treating me nicely. What's have gotten into you, brat?"

I kicked his foot under the table. "Kunin mo na lahat ng gusto mo d'yan, you're so nosy."

He flicked his tongue and gestured me to come close.

"What?"

He leaned closer to whisper something in my ear.

"What if... I tell you..." he trailed off.

"What?"

"I want you."

My lips parted. "Don't make me laugh, Zian."

He pouted and held my chin to make me face him.

"I want you mine, Persian Audrey."