#TCS93: Cherishing the Present

Harper Aurora's POV

Our day went so well, because we all spent it together at the Main Building in the Empire. Everyone was just so happy and light. We even played with our younger siblings all day because we just missed them so much.

Ate Miracle and Alas with the Crowns were all busy. They needed to attend things because of all the aftermath that happened in the Empire. We wanted to help them and become involved in fixing, but they advised us to stay with our parents and our younger siblings.

We couldn't really argue because it was like finally, we were able to breathe after a long suffocating, unstable, and hard journey. It was also almost noon when we all woke up, and although it was late, all of us were tired after everything.

The Evans siblings, Luna and the Crowns weren't tired at all, they were bonding with our parents and our younger siblings when we all woke up. It was a breath of fresh air. It was like waking up in a garden of paradise after being punished in hell.

We were all having a mini picnic in the garden, and it was already afternoon. Time flew so fast because we had fun, and we were resting. Although some weren't here it was still crowded because of our siblings and parents.

"Ano ba Altair, tigilan mo nga si Ais at si Blithe!" Athena shrieked at Altair, and she suddenly hit his head jokingly.

"Aray! Grabe! Ikaw ba 'yong kinukulit ko?! Gusto mo lang yata magpapansin sa akin kasi si Ais at Blithe ang ginugulo ko, eh!" retorted Altair in an irritated tone.

"And one, two, three, fight!" Liam added fuel to the fire as usual. Biblee clapped because of her brother's encouragement.

"Ano lalaban kang suntukan?!" hamon ni Altair kay Athena.

"Talo ka naman, h'wag ka na maghamon!" Nicholas remarked while rolling his eyes.

"Hoy! Ba't ka nang-aatake ha?!" Altair screamed at Nicholas, who was looking at the two with a bored expression.

"Why are you even fighting? Just leave Ais and Blithe alone. They are so done with the two of you," spoke Aristle while shrugging his shoulders. I gave thumbs up while nodding my head, and high fived at Aristle.

"It's okay, Ate Athena," Ais mentioned and smiled at her sister, who was glaring at Altair.

"Kuya, can you braid my hair instead of fighting with Ate Athena? It's nakakarindi." Blithe pouted and she held Altair's hand and gave him ponytails for him to braid her hair. Altair hissed but then followed the little request from their bunso.

"Alam mo Blithe, masyado ka yata natututo sa mga keep calm trio." Biblee made pansin on how Blithe spoke.

"It's so cute kaya!" I responded with a teasing smile. "Right, Blithe? It's so nice speaking like us, 'di ba? It's making irita to others without intending to!" I exclaimed happily, and Blithe clapped her hands.

"Right, Ate! And it's sosyal pakinggan, 'di ba Ais!" masayang dagdag pa ni Blithe.

"I know! It's like Ate Art! Mom and Dad kept saying na Ate Art never left our house whenever they hear me!" Ais added while nodding her head, and smiling at Blithe. Those two were really magkasundo when it comes to kaartehan! It's so fetch!

"Nakakahawa pala ang ka-conyo-han," iiling-iling na say ni Biblee.

Honoka, Art, and I glared at her with a knotted forehead, and she put her hands up.

"Jusko, Aislynn, nakakatuliling ka talaga magsalita kapag ginagaya mo si Ate Art!" reklamo ni Athena sa bunsong sibling nila.

"Ate Athena, you are too maton kasi, you should act like your goddess name!" Aislynn retorted while smiling at Athena. The latter facepalmed because of what she heard, and we all laughed because she looked so stressed.

"What are you so against ba ha?" Art popped in, while looking at Athena.

"Ate, tama na 'yong isa, grabe naman 'yong naging dalawa kayo bigla," Athena said while shaking her head lightly.

"Tss! You are inggit kasi mana na sa akin si Ais!" responded Art happily. And we high fived with her. Honoka was chuckling softly while she was hugging her baby brother. Although, he was already big na for Honoka, he's still baby.

Like my Aristle! I was also hugging my baby bro! He's so elegant and suplado like me! But sometimes he was so masama makatingin like he was nagbabalak to do something bad! He really got that look from Father, although he was just calm on the inside and not thinking of evil things!

"Grabe 'yong tatlong conyo mukhang maa-upgrade sa limang conyo!" loko ni Biblee and we all laughed at her.

"And yes, we are proud!" Honoka remarked laughingly, and we all nodded to second.

"Kuya Altair, me too! I want a braid!" Ais suddenly requested when she saw that Altair just finished braiding Blithe's hair into two! Wow! That was so good! It looked so nice! It was like he really aral how to do it properly!

"Ayna! Naging utusan pa nga ng mga bagets!" reklamo ni Altair, but he still went to tirintas Ais's hair! Athena was laughing because Altair looked so defeated with it.

"You are so galing naman!" Art made puri on Altair's ability.

"Ako pa, Ate!" And he did the pogi sign.

"Neknek mo magaling!" Athena teased and kicked Altair lightly.

"Awww! Grabe nabalian yata ako ng buto! Grabe talaga kapag maton!" Altair acted like he was so hurt, and we were all laughing.

"You are so weak, Altair," Nicholas stated while shaking his head and looking at Altair like he was a disgrace because of his strength! Oh, my gosh! That look was so Akira! That taunting grin on his face, too!

"Hoy, Nicholas! H'wag ka ngang ngumisi ng ganyan! Nai-inlove ako!" Biblee chimed in dreamily.

"And I'll never fall in love with you, Ate, so no worries," Nicholas answered while shrugging his shoulder and Honoka tousled her brother's hair, and Nicholas brows met in a thin line because he looked so inis with Honoka messing with his hair!

But he couldn't protest because Honoka was like his baby sis! He often acts like he was mas matanda!

"Uwian na Biblee, taksil ka! Sa kapatid pa talaga, ha!" Cleon joked while cackling at Biblee who was looking like she was seeing the younger Akira on Nicholas.

"Aping-api!" loko naman ni Altair.

"Manahimik kayong dalawa, inggit lang kayo eh! Ako may bebeng patay na patay sa akin, kayo wala!" Biblee stuck her tongue out at them.

"Asa!" Akira suddenly chimed in the conversation while he was sitting on a chair with the parasol on the table as he removed the book he was reading from his face just to say that to Biblee.

"Kawawa ka na, Biblee!" sabay-sabay na imik ni Cleon, Altair, and Ate Amythee.

"Wow, Akira my loves! Matapos mo akong yakapin at ayaw pakawalan kagabi ha! Bigla kang gaganyan sa akin! Napakamahiyain mo talaga kapag magdedeklara ng pagmamahal sa akin!" Biblee said in a really really fast way like she was rapping.

"Are you sure you aren't dreaming, Ate Biblee?" Nicholas asked innocently.

"Pwoing, pwoing, pwoing! And the winner for round one is Nicholas! Completely knocked out, Ate Biblee!" Altair announced while bursting out, while he was braiding Aislynns's hair.

Akira looked at Nicholas and gave him thumbs up. "Way to go, young man." He even winked while cackling at his brother.

"Heh! Wala kang kiss sa akin ng isang linggo!" Biblee threatened.

"Pero mamaya s'ya na 'yong manlalabing kay Akira!" Ate Amythee laughed teasing her own sister.

"Ano ba 'yan, Ate Biblee, sobrang rupok mo naman, ibabandera mo talaga ang Yoon sa ganyan?" added Liam with a knotted forehead.

"Dapat pala laging nandito 'yong mga bata para laging api si Biblee!" Gabby joined in the conversation while she was walking to sit with us on the picnic blanket.

"Hoy, Gabby, foul ka ha!" retorted Biblee, Gabby just laughed at her cheekily with her dimples showing and her eyes disappearing.

"It's so true naman!" I teased with a grin, and they all laughed.

It was just so fun today. We didn't really do anything in particular; we were just hanging out together. We were lazy all day. Our parents were the one cooking and making snacks, so we were out here just having feel-good and trivial conversations.

Akira and Pierce were both on the parasol sitting there while reading books. They would join in the conversations if necessary. Also, they were playing with Nicholas, Liam, and Aristle earlier about toy cars, and small leggo figures.

Theon was taking care of the children, but would also go to Ate Amythee's side from time to time without saying anything and would take a nap on her shoulders or her lap. He was acting like a cute child around her.

Cleon was annoying our siblings with Altair because Sloane wasn't here. She was busy as a Crown, and Cleon looked like she was missing her already. Talk about whipped. Cleon really changed after he met Sloane, he was always so cheesy around her!

Oh, well, I wasn't in the position to talk about being all mushy.

Thorn was with Chewy. He was walking and playing with Chewy here in the garden. Earlier, Aislynn, Blithe, and Aristle was playing with him. And now, they were tired, so Thorn was the only one left.

He was now sitting also on the parasol with Akira and Pierce but he wasn't reading any book unlike the two. He was also laughing with the jokes he was hearing. I was sure he was also missing Katniss. Since Katniss wasn't here too because of her duty.

Ate Amythee was busy knitting something on the picnic blanket with us. She would talk and would laugh around, too. And she also took care of everyone earlier. She wouldn't also mind if Theon would suddenly hang around her.

Biblee was just... same old, same old. She'd be so busy joking and saying nonsense. She told a lot of stories earlier. It sounded fiction, but I was sure it was all real, it was just that she exaggerated it a lot. It was Biblee, what should we expect? She was also lazy-ing around all day, and would just annoy our poor siblings.

They were so magkasundo ni Altair, although they'd also tease each other.

Art, Honoka, and I were painting earlier here. Aristle also joined a little earlier after being bored with the others. And after we got tired of painting, we just rested on the picnic blanket, hugging our younger siblings.

Caerus were also out with the Crowns so he wasn't here.

Further, the Evans and Luna weren't here. They were out. I think Luna and Justice went to buy groceries. While Law and Rebel were out and doing something about the deaths of the Senses and the underground city chaos because of adversaries' demise.

I kind of feel guilty that we weren't doing anything, and the others were busy running around with all these things. But I remembered how they weren't really involve in fighting off the enemies, because we were the main force, so it was like it was patas, so I didn't mind it na.

Gabby just arrived and was laying down the blanket. I think she went out because she was with Tita Princess. They went to the administration of the Empire to discuss the funerals and the mournings.

"Where's Tita Princess?" Pierce asked Gabby.

"She went with Dada to go to the supermarket. I was tired, so I asked them to drop me off." We all nodded with her answer.

Our parents were also busy doing the housework, and they left us here to take care of our siblings and just do nothing. They also brought us snacks earlier, and I was sure they were inside the mansion resting or watching.

All in all, this day might be lazy, but it was still fun with everyone around. It was like we were reward with it after the storm we went through.

"May itatanong ako!" Biblee suddenly raised her hand and we all looked at her.

"Hmm?" I asked while raising one brow at her.

"H'wag ka na magtanong pang baliw naman mga tanong mo," Cleon said while rolling his eyes.

"Nagsalita!" Art shrieked at Cleon, and we all laughed agreeing with her. "Aray! Ako na naman ang pupuntiryahin n'yo! Kung nandito lang si Slo, talo kayo lahat!" mayabang na say pa nito.

"Kapag nandito si Ate Sloane, paniguradong mas kawawa ka, Kuya!" Athena laughed loudly.

"I agree!" Liam and Aristle even added.

"Ipasa na ang korona kay Kuya Cleon!" Altair teased after braiding Aislynn's hair. Biblee high fived with him.

"Pero seryoso nga! May itatanong ako!" Biblee insisted and we looked at her with a knotted forehead. Even Piere, Akira, and Thorn who were sitting on the chair with a parasol on the table were curious.

"Kalokohan na naman 'yan," Akira mentioned while smirking at Biblee.

"Ang supportive mo talaga, bibiloves!" Biblee pouted.

"Parang hindi mo talaga boyfriend si Akira!" Ate Amythee kidded and we all chuckled.

"I can't even believe Kuya Akira asked the dwende to become his girl," Nicholas stated with a serious tone, and a knotted forehead.

"Hoy! Kutong-lupa! Jackpot 'yang si Akira sa akin ha!" Biblee stood up and put her hand on her waist. We were all laughing because of it, and Nicholas looked so done with Biblee! Goodness, they really grew up, huh?

Nicholas was like more Akira now than before.

"Bibiloves ko! Pagtanggol mo nga ako sa kutong-lupang 'to!" sumbong ni Biblee.

"Ate Bibs, Nicholas is taller than you already, so?" Liam mentioned truthfully.

"Grabe! Ako 'yong kapatid mo, Liam, oy!" Biblee acted like she was hurt and marched towards Akira. Akira was laughing with us instead of sympathizing with his small girlfriend. Ate Amythee high-fived with Liam.

"Kaya pa ba, Ate Biblee?" Athena joked around.

Biblee punched Akira when she arrived to where he was. Akira was cackling and catching her punches. "It's true, though? How can I defend you in that?" he questioned Biblee while chuckling joyfully.

"Che! Magkagalit tayo simula ngayon!" Biblee declared.

"Talaga ba?" Altair's teasing voice echoed, and the children laughed.

"H'wag n'yo gagayahin si Ate Biblee n'yo ha?" Honoka told Aislynn, Blithe, Aristle, and Liam. And they all nodded. And she also high fived with Athena, Altair, and Nicholas. I couldn't help but shake my head while guffawing.

"Narinig ko 'yon, Honoka, ah!" Biblee screamed accusingly.

"I was intending to make you hear it," Honoka kidded with her gummy smile.

"Game over! The Williams siblings won!" Gabby declared delightfully.

"Makaalis na nga, kawawang-kawawa talaga ako ha! Hahanapin ko na lang si Alas! Tutal si Alas lang kakampi ko rito lagi! Kakabit na lang talaga ako kay Alas nang sikreto!" Biblee announced as she crossed her arms.

"Tapang kapag wala si Miracle!" Cleon clapped his hands.

"Syempre! Kapag nandito, tingin pa lang tiklop na si Biblee! Talas pa naman makatingin ni Ate kapag usapan ang baby n'ya!" Gabby jested playfully. Our younger siblings were clapping and cheering because of it.

"Ano ba kayo, mission abort kapag nandito si Ate Miracle. Kaya nga lihim na kabit, eh!" angal ni Biblee.

"Parang papayag si Alas!" Theon declared truthfully.

"Hmp!" Biblee crossed her arms.

"Itigil n'yo na 'yan, guys! Baka umiyak na si Biblee nyan!" Ate Amythee said while giggling.

"Wow, Ate, coming from you!" Biblee barked a laughter.

"Akira, ano na! Hindi mo talaga ako tutulungan at ipagtatanggol, ah? Wala ka talagang kiss!"

Akira shrugged at her with a grin on his face. Biblee pouted. Thorn and Pierce were laughing and shaking their heads at her.

"Ano ba 'yong itatanong mo?" Pierce asked instead.

"Wala na, nakalimutan ko na!" Biblee yelled in annoyance.

"Bakit kay Kuya ka galit?" Thorn joked.

"Grabe, wala akong matinong makausap sa inyo ngayon!" Biblee announced in frustration.

"Now, you know the feeling," Akira declared.

"Well, that was always how it is when we are chatting with you," Art seconded.

"Grabe! On a scale kung gaano ako aping-api ngayon from 0 to 10! Therefore, I conclude, the result was 11!" Biblee wiped the invisible sweat on her forehead because of how stressed she was because of our conversation.

Akira was laughing at her, and he grabbed her wrist.

"Ano?! Hindi tayo, bati! Aalis na ako, hahanapin ko na si Alas. Si Alas na mabait, si Alas na mukhang baby, si Alas na anghel, si Alas na gwapo, si Alas na mapagbigay, si Alas na understanding, si Alas na—"

"Really?" Akira smirked evilly when he suddenly pulled Biblee backwards and made her sit on his lap. Biblee's eyes widened automatically when Akira's arms circled around her waist and stomach. We were all jaw-dropped because of Akira! Oh, my royals!

"What did you say again about Alas?" he added teasingly.

"Joke lang lahat 'yon bibiloves!" Biblee said shyly, and she even tucked her hair on her ears. We all laughed because of it.

Biblee looked so happy and kinikilig because Akira didn't suddenly kick her out from that position instead, he even rested his chin on her shoulder. Biblee was blushing profusely, and she looked ticklish.

"Kuya! That's so gross!" Nicholas demanded grumpily.

"I know, right!" Aislynn declared with his cousin.

"Mga panira!" Biblee pointed at them. "Minsan lang 'to, 'no! Sisirain n'yo pa! Isusumpa ko mga love life n'yo kapag lumaki na kayo! Sana mas maging kiddie meal at maging sawi kayong mga kutong lupa kayo!"

"Pretty sure that wouldn't be effective, I am sure girls would flock to me." Nicholas shrugged.

"That's true. Their hearts will be heartbroken because of us. I once ignored a girl who professed that she likes me. Tss," Aristle added with a stern look on his face.

"Really? Why did you reject the girl?" I asked curiously.

"Well, first off, she's so noisy, second, she's on the bottom of the class. I hate girls like that. She's not on my level." My jaw-dropped elegantly because of the words coming out of my brother's mouth. Wow! I was so proud!

"Ay grabe! Bata-bata pa mukhang marami-rami na kaagad babasagin na puso!" Cleon cackled at him.

"Duh, Cley! Aristle's right! He should choose someone on his level, like the royalty level!" pagtataray and pag-flip ko ng hair. Aristle and I cackled at each other as we nodded. Look at me, Law was head over heels for me.

"Mag-ingat ka Aristle," Akira stated meaningfully.

"Bakit, Akira? From experience ba?" Pierce mocked delightfully.

"Dude," Akira cackled.

"Mga katulad ko ang madalas magwagi, mouhahaha!" Biblee laughed and spread her arms.

"How did Ate Biblee win your heart Kuya Akira?" Blithe asked curiously.

"Blithe, don't even ask for that. You are in for a trap. And that's not good," Liam mentioned, and he looked like he wanted to cover Blithe's ear. We were all laughing because of it.

"Simple lang 'yan baby Blithe, banat lang 'yan!" Biblee's laugh echoed, and we also chuckled.

Akira didn't let go of Biblee from the hug even after the teasing and Biblee looked satisfied with it. It wasn't really of a big deal because first of all, they were in a relationship. And it was like once in a blue moon that Akira would show sweetness around her upfront.

We continued conversing and teasing each other. The kids were so funny because they were witty in joining the nonsense stories we were telling. They even told us stories from their classes. It was so fun hanging out with them after a long time.

Then we were called to go inside the mansion because it was maggagabi na rin. We fixed all the mess we made in the garden. Pierce and Thorn wouldn't let us escape without cleaning all of it, because we really made chaos in there.

When we finished, we cleaned up and showered on our own, too. And we joined our parents for a movie marathon. I wouldn't call it watching because our parents were so loud and they were joking around with us. They were mostly teasing us about our love life.

After that we helped them prepare for dinner. There was no minute that we were quiet. It was even chaotic. Especially when sometimes one side would have a different topic from the other. It was enjoyable though.

We got to hang around with our parents. And they were so cool with everything. It was so refreshing. No matter what hell we'd come across in the future, as long as we'd go home to this... to our smiling parents... there wouldn't be anything we could wish for.

While we were in the dining table and eating. Some were still not present, and we were talking.

"Madaya kayo, Mom, Dad, kanina n'yo pa kami niloloko sa love life namin!" Cleon pouted at them.

"Aw, pakilala ka muna kasi sa Daddy ni Sloane, baka tumakbo ka ng umiiyak pabalik kay Annicka kapag nakilala mo 'yon!" Tita Goddess laughed at Cleon.

"Grabe ka naman manakot, Tita Dyosa!" Cleon made a sad face at her.

"Duwag ka na pala, Kuya Cley!" Gabby teased while laughing.

"Lakas din mang-asar nitong bunso ng Evans, eh!" Tito Handsome mentioned while cackling.

"Manang-mana kay Kuya!" Tita Lian answered then she took a spoonful of what she was eating. Tito Timothy gave her a glass of water.

"Nanay, dandahan naman pagkain, kaya ka nagiging siopao eh," Tito Timothy said while grinning at Tita Lian. Tita Lian snapped at him and regally batok-batok him! Oh, my royals! It was so funny because Tito Timothy almost choked because he was about to take a bite of the meat on his plate!

"Now, I know kung bakit aping-api si Ate Biblee kanina, kasi api rin pala si Tito Timothy, mana-mana pala talaga," Altair suddenly declared. They almost spilled what they were eating or drinking because of the unexpected blow.

"Oo, Altair, mana-mana talaga. Ikaw lang talaga nagpapatunay na anak ka ni Tita Dyosa at Tito Gwapo," Athena said while nodding her head.

"Syempre! Sobrang gwapo ba? Bawal ma-in love sa akin mga amazona, ha!" Altair mentioned proudly. And Tito Handsome high fived with his child.

"Hindi! Kasi ikaw lang 'yong naiba sa magkakapatid. Kumbaga kung lahat sila anghel, ikaw lang dimunyo, gano'n!" Athena lashed out while cackling and pointing at Altair. We all laughed because of it.

"Ikaw rin naman ah! Ikaw lang amazona sa inyo, ampon!" Altair retorted back.

"Hindi kaya! Ayan si Kuya Cleon, nambabalibag 'yan! D'yan ako natuto!" Athena pointed at his Kuya Cleon.

"Ay grabe, nanlaglag!" Cleon held his chest and acted like he was so hurt because of it.

"Cleon Ares," Tita Annicka looked Cleon sharply and the latter gulped with his mother's threatening eyes.

"I heard Ate Art called Kuya Cleon, ampon, though," Aislynn mentioned with a shrug innocently.

"Alam na!" Altair and Biblee both declared.

"Why are they naiba, Mom?" Aislynn questioned Tita Annicka naively.

"Nailaglag ko yata si Cleon no'ng baby at nahanginan naman yata si Athena." We all started laughing because of Tita Annicka's answer with a teasing smile.

"Ang bully sa mga anak!" Tita Goddess declared.

"Parang hindi s'ya," Tita Shana popped in.

"Talo lahat 'yan kapag si Alyx ang nang-asar," Tito Jacob told us and we all nodded our heads to agree. I wouldn't protest to that. Tita Goddess knew everything and she had her way with words and whatever our answers would be, she'd be able to counter it proudly.

A legend.

We all continued eating when suddenly...

"Mga pasaways ko, nandito na ang pinakadyosa n'yong si Luna!" We all looked at the one who was announcing her arrival, and it was Luna with two boxes of cakes on her hand. She greeted everyone and kissed the cheeks of our parents.

Justice also followed with Tito Nate and Tita Princess. They all joined us in eating and left the bags of groceries on the floor.

And after a little while Rebel and Law arrived together. Rebel walked towards Honoka, and also went to his parents. Honoka got up to get Rebel some utensils to prepare for his food. Rebel looked tired from everything they'd been through today.

"Hey," Law greeted at me then kissed my cheeks. I stood up to get a plate and utensils for him.

He sat beside me and I picked dishes that he would like and gave it to him. "Thank you," he told me tenderly. I smiled, and kissed his cheeks.

"Parang walang tao, grabe!" Tita Goddess suddenly exclaimed, and I was taken aback a little. Oh, royals! I was used in doing it because it was only our gang most of the time! I completely, and elegantly forgot that we have our parents in here, too!

"Shh! Don't epal, Alyx!" Mother interrupted, and we all laughed.

"Baby Pierce ko, konting-tiis pa! Magagawa mo na rin 'yan sa bunso ng mga Evans!" Tita Goddess told her son dramatically.

"Mommy!" Pierce blushed shyly because of it. Gabby was laughing. "Don't worry, Tita Dyosa! Ako bahala, kapag pwede na!" Gabby kidded with a beam.

"Gabby," Tito Nate warned and the triplets gazed at Gabby sharply.

"I'm joking, Dada!" Gabby cackled.

"Mana sa 'yo 'yan, h'wag ka na magtaka," Tita Princess started. "Ikaw nga wala ka pang eighteen no'n may pa-fiance ka nang nalalaman," she added laughingly.

"Boom!" Tita Goddess and Tito Handsome chorused. We guffawed at their exaggerated reaction.

Father looked at me keenly and sharply like he was watching my every movement. I made iwas ng tingin from him. I couldn't lambing tuloy because he wouldn't leave his sight on me! Tsk! Although, Mother would talk to him, I could still feel that he was watching us.

We just ate while talking and not being sweet tuloy!

It was so madaya because Luna and Justice across us were so sweet! Justice would asikaso Luna, and Luna would also do the same. They were on their own world. Tito Nate and Tita Princess wasn't really rigged about it! They were probably used to it.

They were so cute because they were so attentive and they were really listening to each other. You could see how sparks were flying around those two. So admirable!

When we all finished eating the dessert. We all went our own ways. It was so chaotic because we would laugh every time. That was like one of the lengthiest dinner ever; we couldn't eat continuously because of laughing happily. It was so great, though!

After washing up, I went to the backyard garden. There was a swing in there. I saw the children playing the living room, and some were on the entertainment room. I just wanted an elegant quiet place to rest a little.

When I arrived there, luckily, there was no one. Usually, Pierce and Gabby would be in here stargazing with Biblee and Akira.

I sat there and I looked at the stars in the sky. I was already in my pajama, and the cold breeze was refreshing instead of being chilly. The place was so nice because there were little lights like it were fireflies. There weren't so many insects and bugs, too.

Gazing at the sky would make you feel a different feeling inside of you. How wonderful it was. The deep darkness of sky was like tranquility and the stars in it were the poets that would tell interesting and numerous stories.

The blackness of the night was like a smooth serenade in my eyes, and the stars twinkling around were the choirs singing a lullaby. They were harmonious, and the melodies it was creating would be filled with infinite patterns.

Sometimes your eyes see music, too. And the deeper the night... the more wondrous the song would be.

"So... you are here, Aurora." My gaze left the sky I was admiring when I saw a fallen star standing on the sliding door with his hands pocketed on both sides. His hair was jet-black messy, and there was a little drop of water dripping from it.

He seemed like he just finished taking a shower. He messed with his hair to dry it a little with the towel around his neck. After that he put it on the chair and walked towards where I was. He sat down beside me, and the hammock bench-like moved a little.

"Are you not cold?" he asked worriedly. "No..." I murmured and glanced at the sky again.

There was a silence between us, and it was fine. I felt like he was also looking at the stars like me. I felt him held my hand, and I intertwined it with a small smile on my lips. I wondered a lot of things for a while and I relaxed because of his presence.

"Are you feeling okay now...? You cried a lot." I glimpsed at him when he broke the silence, and our eyes met. His eyes were glistening in a lighter shade of gray.

I suddenly remember how flustered and hurt I was because of the things that I heard from the Senses about my father and about who I am and my personality. I was stabbed directly to the heart because of it that my eyes watered.

I couldn't deny it. I was always this high and mighty. I knew it weren't always going to be good. To be told and slapped by that reality? That a good blow on me. Then, add things about my father.

I adored him so much, I love him so much, although I might not always show it. I value everything about him. Sometimes, I feel like I was really a daddy's girl than a mommy's girl. And hearing that... Father caused pain to Law's Momo, made me feel so small.

I was already insecure about not being on his level... and I kept denying about the things I learned about my Father. And it would be rubbed on your face? Not a good feeling at all. I wouldn't want to go back from that. Never.

"I feel better now... I already talked to Father, and I feel lighter and more open now..." I told Law sincerely.

I pulled me to him closer. I leaned on his shoulder, and he wrapped his other arm on me.

"Luna talked to me yesterday, she wanted to talk to you, but I prevented her. She was down, and a little guilty." Napaayos ako nang pagkakaupo because of what he said.

"Why?!" I panicked a little.

"She thought you cried because I chose her." I groaned and Law cackled a little as he pulled me back inside his arms and kissed my cheek.

"Tell her I was the one who told you to choose her." I laughed softly.

"I did..." he mentioned delicately. "And she was surprised. Akala n'ya baka s'ya pa maging dahilan kung bakit magkakagalit tayo sa isa't isa. Nagpaliwanag ako sa kanya na hindi mangyayari 'yon," he continued while caressing my hair.

"Should I talk to her? I don't want her feeling guilty or anything about it..." I trailed in concern.

"She's fine now. I talked to Justice and her. Don't worry." I felt him kissed the top of my head.

"That's good then..." I mentioned with a lighter heart. I wouldn't want Luna to think that she didn't deserve that answer. She deserves everything. If Luna weren't with Law and the Evans... would we be able to see them again? I think not.

She shouldn't underestimate herself and all the things she had done for them. It was a life for a life.

Even I felt guilty that I was once jealous of her. And it wasn't a good feeling. Good thing, instead of keeping it to myself I talked to Law about it. I didn't want a small misunderstanding and uneasy feeling to cause a rift between the two of us, especially when we were in a relationship.

I suddenly remembered what led to Law answering Luna. And why I asked him to answer honestly back then, because I wanted to hear his answer. To make sure he'd choose the right one after our talk from before.

WE WERE exhausted from our training, and I was out of it. I couldn't do my best because things had been bothering me, and I feel... a little jealous about something that I shouldn't feel insecure about.

I was sighing for the nth time while I was at the library of the place where we were training at the island. I wanted to distract myself, and I couldn't fall asleep, so I tried to read something, so I'd feel sleepy.

But kahit ano'ng read ko, I'd go back to the first sentence because my mind was flying about something else!

"Agh! This is not good for a beauty sleep!" I moaned at myself. "You are better than this, Harper, just because of a simple thing you are already jealous. Royals, Harper." I messed with my beautiful and soft hair in irritation.

I slammed the book closed and flopped my head on it.

I saw Law and Luna earlier. They were practicing and teasing each other. They looked so comfortable and lovely. And when Law was about to defeat Luna and haul her on the mat, he just hugged her instead.

It was just to protect Luna from his strength and skill, but it still bothered me. So freaking petty!

What... if... what if Justice didn't pursue Luna from before? What if one thing was different from the past... would everything be different today?

"Get a grip, Harper; this is so not you," I scolded myself while blowing the strands of hair that was covering my face while I was looking at the bookshelves and books that was on the side while my head was resting on top of the text on the table.

"But... Law said... he had a crush on Luna. And Luna said aside from Justice she was mostly attracted to Law." I almost yanked my smooth hair because of the irritating feeling and voice inside of me.

Why was I so insecure about Luna? Hello! Mother taught me that we shine on different things, and the best thing I could do was to be me and not compare myself because we have different purposes and aspects where we excel at!

"Me is so nakakainis today! I hate it!" I raised my head and pointed at the book like I was blaming that poor novel.

"And why aren't you sleeping yet?"

"Oh, my royals!" I shrieked in surprise as I held my chest.

He chuckled watching me and went to sit in front of me. He looked at the book in front of me and raised a brow. "A romance novel?"

"Why? Am I not allowed to read this?" I snapped at him. He chuckled. I was supposed to be galit at him, but when his cute dimples and eye-smile showed, I was not galit na!

That was so madaya and illegal!

"Not really, Aurora... I checked on you on your room and you are not there. I was worried. You should be sleeping. Hindi maganda ng kulang sa tulog lalo na dahil sa training n'yo." He looked at me with a warm beam and sparkling eyes that showed concern.

I avoided his gaze. While I was thinking about this and that... he was thinking of my well-being. Tss. I felt like I was really immature because of it. I sighed heavily.

"What's wrong?" he asked in confusion. He stood up from where he was sitting and knelt in front of me. "Hey?" He suddenly caressed my face and I felt so emotional because of it! Why did he need to be so sweet and caring now?!

How can I tuloy my drama if he was being like this?! So unfair! So royally not fair!

"Nothing..." I avoided his eyes yet again.

"Harper Aurora." I felt chills on my skin because of his serious way of calling my name.

"I swear it's nothing, it's just me being... I don't know... unreasonable?" I blew air to the hair covering my face a little again.

"What's bothering you?" he asked like he didn't hear what I told him.

"Law, it's nothing." I removed his hand on me, and stood up from my seat. He also stood up and followed me. I went to the window and opened it a little. I felt his presence beside me.

"Can we communicate, Aurora?" he mentioned in a mellow tone.

"We are talking, Law."

"Not really. You are just saying things you don't really mean. Kilala kita. Please, look at me and tell me directly in the eyes that it's really nothing," he urged gently and with a voice full of understanding and softness.

I gulped when I felt him wrapped his hand on my waist going to the small of my back. I bowed down, because I was caught in his arms. He wasn't really hugging me, and there was a space between us, but still.

"Whatever's bothering you... you can always talk to me. I will listen. Kahit kaartehan at reklamo pa 'yan. Kahit dahil ayaw mo no'ng colour combination ng damit ni Nicasia, o baka gusto mo talagang alagaan si Sharpey... Evans?" I punched him a little because of what he was saying.

"Bakit? Takot ka nang mag-ampon ng pating kasi baka kumanta na talaga kasi Sharpey ang pangalan na gusto mo, 'tapos idagdag mo ang apelyido kong Evans. We have our first baby, and it's a pating. And her name's Sharpey Evans?" I punched him again, preventing myself not to laugh, but ended up cackling softly.

Natawa rin s'ya because of his kalokohan!

"See... I like this better... my Aurora, laughing and smiling. So, baby, tell me... what is it bothering you?" He removed his one hand around me, and lifted up my chin so we could look at each other eye to eye.

I sighed and closed my eyes momentarily.

"Please answer me honestly, okay?" He nodded at me.

"Do you... love Luna?" I asked seriously. "Not the familial love, but the romantic one. Even just a tiny bit. I am... just a second option because Justice has Luna?" I felt my voice strained because of it.

"What the hell? Where you get that idea?" he voiced out unbelievably.

"Just answer me truthfully, Law," I demanded with a sigh and bowed again. He lifted my chin again and made me look at him. His eyes looked hurt and a little sad. He closed his orbs softly and sighed while gaping at my face.

My eyes widened when he suddenly closed the gap between the two of us, and he claimed my lips.

I was about to push him but he locked me inside his other arm and kissed me delicately. I felt myself trembled a little because I could feel how much his kiss was just so sad, but, at the same time, so pure.

When he let go of me, he searched for my eyes.

"I am only in love with you..." he stated breathily. "I love you, and only you..."

And he once again gave me a tender, deep, and full of passion kiss. It was so hypnotizing and I absentmindedly wrapped my arms around his nape. I pulled him closer to me—to feel his kiss more intimately.

He rested his forehead on mine when he let go of my lips.

"Luna's a family to me, Aurora. Yes, I had a crush on her... but that doesn't mean, I love her to the extent of how much I love you. Please don't ever question my love for you. If I really did love Luna... that deeply." He paused a little and sighed.

"If I really loved Luna deeper than you," he repeated. "Then I'm sorry... but I'd do whatever it takes to make sure she'd end up with me and not with Justice."

Napalunok ako dahil sa sinabi ni Law nang sobrang seryoso. It made my mind hazy but my heart so clear.

"Nagparaya ka kay Justice...?" I asked—no, I almost whispered to the air.

"Oo, nagparaya ako kay Luna para kay Justice. Why? Because my attraction for her wasn't that deep. I could let her go so easily because I realized that... yes, she's my comfort, but not... my love." I saw how his eyes was glistening in so much realness.

"I liked Luna... I'd admit to that... because she's an angel that was sent to save us. And I love Luna as a family. My feelings for her aren't that shallow and simple... but it isn't in a romantic way, do you understand me?" he asked gently.

I nodded at him, with a heart and mind that was more open and clearer than before.

"I'm glad that you decided to tell and ask me this... instead of keeping it inside your head. Who knows how much you'll overthink because this," he spoke lightly with a small smile on his face. He tucked the hair that escaped on my face to my ear.

"Of course! I should!" I told him while rolling my eyes.

"Then please continue to do so... no matter how small it is. I don't want to make you feel insecure about our relationship. I want it to become healthy and steady, okay?" I nodded at him, and he kissed the bridge of my nose.

"Baka mamaya siraan mo na ako kina Art at Honoka," he kidded and cackled a little. I wrinkled my nose at him.

"Our relationship is ours not theirs!" I told him with a pout. "I'd address it to you, and not tell it to my friends just to gain sympathy, and to make me feel better. I don't want that. I wanted us to communicate well, too."

"That's my Harper Aurora." He chuckled softly. "And thank you... for being matured and strong about this... let's talk about these things open mindedly and with understanding, okay?" I smiled and nodded at him.

I also hugged him back. I messed with his hair a little, and he smiled at me, still not letting me go from his embrace.

"Don't be wary of Luna, okay?" I nodded again at him. "And it wasn't just me who have complex feelings for Luna... my siblings, Miracle, Justice, Rebel, and Gabby, all have it... and also our Momo and Dada," he stated as a matter of factly. I chortled softly.

"She really gave all of you the thing called life, huh? I want to thank her for that. If not for her... would you be standing in front of me, right now?" I caressed his face softly. I remembered how important Luna was... not just for the Evans but also for us.

If Luna weren't here in the Empire to guide us... would we even survive this living hell? Especially when we were treated like trashes because we were commoners.

"Tell me more about it..." I requested instead. I suddenly wanted to hear more about Luna in Law's eyes, not just on the story we heard.

"Our parents treat Luna as their own child. Si Luna kasi at si Mama Elena—sila ang nag-alaga kay Momo at Gabby. 'Tapos si Papa Tobias sandalan ni Dada," he started with a mellow tone, I saw how painful the past was in his gaze.

"Alam mo 'yon... walang-wala kami nang mga panahon na 'yon. Ang sakit na marinig na gusto na lang sumuko ni Momo. Sobrang sakit na marinig na gusto na ni Momo sumama kay Tita Gloom sa kalawakan..." I saw how tears started to pool in his eyes.

"Law..."

"And Luna would be there to watch Momo because we couldn't watch her. Ang sakit kasi makita na gano'n si Momo, idagdag mo pa na takot na talaga kami sa kanya dahil sa akto n'ya noon sa amin..." he continued with a brave voice.

"Si Mama Elena 'yong kakausap kay Momo. Si Mama Elena 'yong pipigil kay Momo kapag nagagalit 'to. S'ya rin 'yong tutulong kay Momo lagi. 'Tapos si Luna palaging ihehele at papatahanin si Momo, samantalang kami nasa malayo sa matinding sakit at takot habang nanunuod lang..."

My heart ached in pain again because of hearing it from him. His voice was whole, but his eyes were breaking.

"It wasn't just me, Justice, Rebel, Gabby, and Miracle who held on to Luna and her family. Dada and Momo held on to them so much, too," he explained in a low voice. I nodded at him while listening quietly.

"Para ngang sobrang pabigat namin kina Mama Elena at kina Luna no'n, eh," pagak na natawa si Law matapos sabihin 'yon. I remained looking at him, and he was also staring at me warmly.

"That's not true... we know Luna and her family doesn't think of that..." I told him delicately.

He nodded at me lightly. "Oo, kasi gano'n sila kapuro at sila 'yong naging tatag, lakas, at buhay namin."

"Dada and Momo found a path through them. They found a reason to live, and that would be to give back everything they gave us. Kilala mo Dada at Momo, hindi matatahimik 'yon kung 'di sila makakapagbalik sa kanila... kasi buhay ang ibinigay nila sa amin. Buhay rin ang itataya namin." His embrace tightened.

"I'm sure they'd never want anything back, they are... already contented that you are all well. That's the greatest wish and blessing they claimed for helping all of you," I spoke with a small smile.

Law hugged me completely, and I rested my chin on his shoulder.

"My baby's really mature, huh? You really know about how they'd react," he informed me with a soft chuckle.

"Of course... I see it in Luna's eyes, I see it in your siblings' eyes, in Ate Mira's eyes... in your eyes."

"Yeah, that's true..."

"The Melendez didn't really want anything back. They are already happy that we survived and we are well. For them... that's the greatest gift of their help." My heart melted because of his words. How could I ever thank their family?

It wasn't just the Evans indebted to them... me, and everyone would be. "But still... if I were in your position I'd still insist," I stated truthfully. My mind would never be at peace, knowing that I couldn't return a favour to them after everything that they had done.

"True. That's why Momo and Dada insisted everything. But still a no. Napakwento lang sila na kontento talaga sila at masaya. Tinulugan nga sa business nina Momo at Dada, at para sa kanila sapat na 'yon."

"I wish them all the great things in the world," I mumbled while tapping his back.

"Then one day while Momo and Mama Elena were talking. They were looking at Luna and Miracle. And Mama Elena suddenly uttered how thankful she is for Luna... and her only wish was for her to be safe, and for her to grow with greater radiance." Law broke the hug and looked at my face and searched for my eyes.

"Who wouldn't wish that for their child?" I murmured while Law was nodding.

"And that was when Momo decided on how to thank them. Our Momo and Dada would always protect Luna, for that would be the greatest return they could ever give to the ones who became our strength and the reason we kept going and why we managed to return to all of you..." he explained heartily.

"To protect Luna in your parent's steed?" I asked with a smile.

"Not really but partly. Because we also already made a pact. Miracle, Justice, Rebel, Gabby and me—we promised together that in times of dread we'll save Luna first. And we'll only save her fist no matter what the situation is..."

I smiled and nodded at him. Even if I were in their situation, I'd do that too. Whatever it takes. Whatever the situation was. Whatever the turn of fate brings us...

"Luna gave us the will to continue living. She gave us life... and in our world, it is a life for a life. So we'd return it to her," he declared in full sincerity. Hindi man ako ang pinangakuan no'n... my heart felt so happy and at ease.

"You should! If not for her you wouldn't be here!" I told him, punching him a little.

"Silly," he laughed faintly.

"So you'd choose Luna over your siblings?" I asked with squinting eyes.

"Yeah... because that's our promise. And they'll get mad if I ever choose them over Luna."

"So... you'd choose Luna above all?"

"Not just me, but all of us, because of our parent's wish, and our promise."

"And you'll choose Luna over the pasaways?"

"It will hurt, but... you all had each other. And us? We only had Luna."

My eyes felt teary because of his answer. Not because he chose Luna, but because it ached that they experienced hell, storms, and pain all at the same time, and they had no one. We had everything; we had everyone... they only had her.

I completely understood him. And no one, I was sure no one in our gang would hold it against them. For sure... they would even think that like the Evans, Luna would be a new priority over anything else.

"Luna's going to be a choice that we needed to choose," he added while looking in my eyes.

"Needed... how about wanted?" I inquired with a knotted forehead. Law laughed in a sounding manner, and I rolled my eyes because I already got what he was trying to say.

He'd always want to choose me. Tss. This Law. "I'd always want you," he told me genuinely.

I punched him lightly, and we laughed at each other. I never felt so secured until now.

"Law..." I called smoothly.

"Hmm?"

"Please choose Luna over me..." I told him in sincerity and in all seriousness.

"Aurora." His jaw clenched because of my words. I saw confusion in his eyes. I touched the bridge of his nose using the back of my forefinger, slowly tracing it down to his lips.

"We'll choose her together, Law," I added and I saw how his eyes slowly showed understanding. "You will never need to save me, because I will fight with you, and I know you'll keep me away from danger even before it shows in my face... that's why... let's do it together, hmm?"

He smiled softly as he nodded at me proudly. "I'll give my life for you..." he told me.

"I don't want you to offer your life to me, Law. Because I want you to be beside me, alive, well, and breathing... okay?" He nodded at me, and he slowly closed the distance of our faces and brushed my nose against his.

"Always remember, Aurora. It had and has always been you. It's been you from the start, and it will be until the end. I am an Evans. I already give you my heart... what else should I offer you?"

I chuckled softly because of his words, I felt something so ticklish in my stomach because of it. It was just so sincere and so pure. It definitely reached my heart. It was better than a promise, and it was more real than words.

"I am strong because I have you." His words were so good to hear because you knew it wasn't empty.

"I'm sorry... for doubting..." I mentioned in a shy voice as I slowly bowed down.

"No, you all have the right to doubt... It must have been heavy and hard... I'm the one sorry for not making things clearer." Napangiti ako. Royals, this man... I kept falling deeper for this man. How was it so possible with him?

"We should save Luna together, promise?" I asked him in all seriousness. And he nodded. I felt relieved. His gaze told me a lot, on how he was so proud of me, on how he looked so happy because of how I understood where he was coming from, and everything that comes in between.

He should be proud of himself, too. To make me feel so secured, so happy, and so proud of me.

If he was strong because he has me... then I am steady, secured, and loved because of him.

"You are not mad or jealous because of it?" paninigurado n'ya.

"Law... I maybe maarte, but I am not selfish." I rolled my eyes at him.

"And is that choice the only measurement of love? If that's the only measurement and the way to prove love... then I don't want to love anymore. It's shallow looking at that kind of love. I want our love to be stronger and more profound than just that..."

His eyes glistened more because of what I just uttered.

"Damn. I am so in love with you every minute, every second. Thank you for understanding me... for understanding us... I love you. I love you. I love you. Let's do this together?" We both cackled at each other as we nodded.

"Yeah if you don't save her, I'm gonna kill you! She must be protected at all cost! Because I am going to surpass everyone so I will not need saving!" I made banta to him, and he gave me a peck on my lips.

"Looks like it's really possible to fall deeper and deeper into you, huh?" I wanted to flip my hair at him but I did not. Duh, it was me, Harper, of course, it would be possible!

"Don't doubt about you. Matagal na naming kilala si Luna... pero ikaw pa rin kahit nandyan na s'ya, at ikaw lang palagi..." he trailed while giving a peck on the corner of my lips.

"So corny!" I accused him.

"But you love it!" he defended laughingly.

"No, I love you." He was taken aback by what I said, but I gave him a smack on the lips, too, with a playful smile.

"I love you..." he told me with full of emotions, and he hugged me tighter as his other hand travelled on the back of my head as he inclined his head to give me a deeper kiss.

Through the brilliance of the moon from the sky reflecting on the window, I knew our love became something that if I would ever lose... then I'd be nothing.

I was almost panting when he let me go from his lips. "You should sleep now," he spoke and held my hand.

"Right, let's go." And we walked hand in hand.

He tucked me in and kissed my forehead before he went out to go on his own room. And that night, I slept with a smile on my face.

"WHY ARE you smiling?" I looked at the one beside me because of the voice that brought me back to reality. I just couldn't help but smile. I mean... Gretta really thought she hurt me with Law's choice, huh?

Well, surprise... I was proud of that choice because he followed what I told him to do.

What I was hurt about was myself, my mother, and my father.

"Nah... I was just thinking of what will happen now...?" I murmured silently.

"Hmmm... what will happen, now? How about a kiss?"

"Siraulo!"

Tawang-tawa si Law because of what I told him. I was being serious and he'd joke just like that! Just so smoothly! What could he not do?! Tss! And he was so gwapo na naman in my eyes! Geez!

But hmm, not a bad suggestion, eh?

"I was kidding," he uttered while chuckling as he enclosed me in his hug. "Pero, aminin mo, gusto mo naman—OUCH!"

Hinampas ko s'ya nang sobrang hard sa dibdib because he knew what I was thinking!

"Kidding aside," he started. "A lot will happen from now on..." His voice suddenly became heavy and serious. "But let's not think of that... let's focus on the present, in this moment..." I nodded and rested my head on his chest. He embraced me warmly.

"Miracle and Alas are planning for a victory party maybe two weeks from now."

"Really? That will be so great!" I excitedly retorted.

"And they will surely make the whole school aware of the current hierarchy." My eyes widened with what he told me.

"Yes, my dearest Crown... you are going to have your rightful place now..." And suddenly I couldn't wait for the victory party! That would be so good!

Hey, look at us... we came from the bottom of this hierarchy, and you'll witness how we rose to the top. From commoners to Crowns... isn't that the greatest surprise for the whole school who underestimated us?

Welcome... to the Empire. Welcome to the world where we belong. And welcome to the real hierarchy that would finally unveil its true face.

Because no one dared to take their crowns away... until the crown sinners came.

***