Aligning The Stars Gxg
Third Person's POV"It's been an hour already." Astrea muttered to herself after checking the time, until now hindi pa rin pinapaserve ng Propesora ang inorder niya. Linda and Rose were still checking in on her, at nirereport naman nila ito kay Astrea as she was in charge of the restaurant tonight. Iilan nalang din ang pumapasok para kumain sa restaurant kaya naman nakakahinga na ng maluwag ang mga staff nila. Waiting nalang sila kung ipapaluto na ba ng Propesora ang mga pagkain bago ihain ito sa itaas.Pero dahil isang oras na ang nakalipas ay palihim din na tinatanong ni Astrea si Antonette kung dumating na ba ang taong hinihintay ng Propesora. But the answer has always been no."Linda." Tawag niya sa server na kakababa lang, "Anong sabi niya?""Wala pa rin po yung date ni Ma'am. Sabi niya naman na konting paghihintay nalang daw at pag dumating na, pwede na po ihain sa taas ang mga pagkain." Astrea remained silent as she heard what Linda said, "Are you sure? Hindi ba pwedeng kumain na muna siya?""Hindi pa daw po siya gutom, Ma'am eh." "Okay, thanks."She sighed in frustration at bumalik ulit sa kusina, Chef Louis asked her if lulutuin na ba ang mga inorder ng nasa taas but she shook her head. "Looks like someone was ghosted." He joked which made the others laugh except for Astrea. She wondered kung anong mangyayari kung hindi nga sisipot si Khione sa naturang date nila ni Vivien. Would the latter really wait for her? Despite wanting to know how the Professor is upstairs, mas minabuti niya na ituon ang pansin sa pagtulong sa kusina at sa pagsusuri sa mga kinakailangang gawin para sa Restaurant. 3 hours and a half passed, and Rose was bringing the second bottle of red wine upstairs which made Astrea grew worried. It was already 10:59 pm at kanina pa dapat sarado ang Constellations ng 10:30. Ngunit wala pa ring Khione na dumating. Other customers have left pero tanging si Professor Del Mundo lang ang natitira, the food she ordered was left untouched. Yung ibang cook ay pinauwi na ni Chef Louis dahil wala na rin naman silang kailangan lutuin pa kundi ang pagkaing hindi pa pinapaluto. "Astrea," Tawag ng Chef sa kanya, "Kawawa naman yung nagpareserve sa taas, she paid for the food and reservation already. Lutuin ko nalang kaya ito? Or pwede din naman akong maghintay dito." "No.." Iling niya, "Ako nalang po ang bahala dito. Pwede na po kayong umuwi. Sinabihan ko na rin yung iba to go home, it would be unfair kung mago-overtime kayo dito." Gulat naman ang tinging binigay ng Chef sa kanya, "May plano ka?""Nand'yan pa naman si Kuya Ameel. I'll extend the opening hours, but once the clock strikes to 12, ipapasara ko na ang Restaurant. Kung darating man 'yung date niya, I'll be the one to cook for them. The orders are not complicated, naturuan niyo din naman po ako." "Your Tita Sandra raised you well," He praised her at tinanguan ito, "Kung may mangyari dito, isang tawag lang ako." "Thanks, Chef. Sige po, umuwi na kayo at magpahinga. Salamat po sa magandang serbisyo niyo ngayong araw." It didn't took look enough for him to leave the restaurant, mahigpit naman na ibinilin ni Astrea kay Ameel, the restaurant's guard na magbantay ng maigi at tumawag kung may taong dumating. Though the sign says 'Closed', she will still let Khione enter if ever she arrives, despite being annoyed at the fact that it has been hours since the reservation, pero ni anino ay hindi man lang nagpakita ito sa kanya. Kakabihis niya lang ulit sa suot niya kanina, at hindi na siya nagdalawang isip pa na umakyat sa taas para personal na puntahan ang Propesora. Her heart was beating as fast as as a speeding train in each step she takes, until she finally arrived at the entrance door of the upper deck.Just like what the Professor requested, there were petals of roses scattered on the floor, and a table set-up romantically at the center, the candles were almost burnt out, the bouquet of ranunculus flowers were sitting on the other seat and there was an empty bottle of liquor on top of the table, at mukhang makakalahati na rin niya ang isang bote na inakyat ni Rose kanina. 'She's drinking that quick?' A voice in her head says."Khio, is that you—" The familiar voice was heard by Astrea, and she can easily determine the hope in her tone but got washed away in an instant when she saw that it was not the person she hoped for.. as instead she saw Astrea standing in front of her. "M-ms. Luceria.." There was confusion in her tone.Astrea already expected it, at this point, she just hoped that Vivien isn't thinking that she might've been following her, or that she's weird because they've stumbled upon each other again. "..Ilang oras na po kayong nandito, Ms. Del Mundo." The younger one says, "Hindi po ba kayo nagugutom?"Despite being confused, Vivien shook her head as she poured the wine on her glass and drank it in one shot. "I'm getting full just by.. this." She pointed at the red wine and smiled sheepishly. "I'm sorry if it's rude to ask, pero what are you doing here, Ms. Luceria?"So she really has no idea at all. That's what runs in Astrea's mind, it wasn't intentional. "My family owns this restaurant po."Napatigil naman si Vivien dahil sa narinig, "Oh.. wait.. really?""My Dad actually owns this, pero simula 'nung nawala na siya, my Tita took over and I'm the one helping her out."A surprised look was evident on the Professor's face, she let out a chuckle before pouring another drink. Astrea eyed her movements, and was starting to get worried because of how fast she's drinking. "That explains why you're here." She nodded her head, "Then why didn't you approach me earlier? As you said, you're here because you were helping out."Kitang-kita ni Astrea ang pamumula ng Propesora, she had seen her like this before, so she knows that she was already drunk. With how talkative she is, may tama na talaga ito ng alak. "..I was busy in the kitchen po." Well, that's a lie. "Tita Maricar was the one who suggested this restaurant to me. She's aware how much I like the constellations, yet I didn't know this kind of resto existed before, your family did a great job.." Nang uminom ulit ito at may balak na naman siya na magsalin ulit ng wine ay kaagad na lumapit si Astrea and stopped her from doing so."Ms. Del Mundo, you're drinking with an empty stomach." Vivien let her student take the wine away from her, and laughed wryly. "..Do you know that feeling when my hopes have already died, and my mind already knows the answer, but my body refuses to accept it and still.. I want to wait for that person to come." Napakunot noo naman si Astrea sa sinabi niya, ngunit hinayaan niya lang ang Propesora na ilabas ang hinanakit niya. "I wanted to be mad, I wanted to let her know that I'm hurt, I wanted to say that to her.." Suddenly, tears were starting to roll down from the Professor's eyes, "..Will you choose me for once? Will you look at me for once? Will you let me love you the way you love her?" Astrea felt like she has been punched to her gut, seeing her crying like this, and hearing those words— begging for the love that she was ready to give from someone who clearly doesn't care about her, was a big slap to her face because how can someone possibly hurt her like this? "But I can't." She breathed, "I can never be mad at her.. because all I know is that the love I have for her is much bigger than the pain I feel."Her hand started to form a fist, but completely hiding it from the woman who was trying her hardest to wipe her tears away. "I was a fool for thinking that confessing tonight would be a perfect idea— not when I saw that the person she loves was gonna do the same thing tonight too." Her voice trembled, her eyes not meeting Astrea's because of how embarrassed she was. "..I planned this for days. I was just looking for a perfect time, and the perfect place to do it, and when I did.. I was pushed to the side again." Astrea's gaze softened, her frown turning into a worried expression. Rather than feeling hurt for herself, mas nangibabaw ang sakit na nararamdaman niya ngayon para sa Propesora. She already saw her crying before— but what she's seeing now is far from the Vivien she saw that night. This time it seems like she's defeated and lost. And the cheerful Professor became gloomy that even the sky appears to be darker than usual. The stars doesn't seem to be brighter either, and even the moon is hiding behind the clouds making it harder to see."..I'll wait with you." That statement made the Professor look up to her, "Until you decide to stop waiting for her." Vivien shook her head softly, "Ms. Luceria.. you don't have to." "I'm in charge of the restaurant tonight, and I don't want a customer leaving unsatisfied." She smiles reassuringly, "..We can wait for her to come but in one condition." Vivien was sniffling as she wiped the new set of tears rolling down her cheeks, "W-what is it?""Kailangan niyo pong kumain." "B-but..""Our customer deserves good food.. and good service. You paid for it, so the only thing you have to do is to enjoy your money's worth, Ms. Del Mundo."Ilang segundong nanahimim si Vivien, as she was unsure about it. She wanted to eat it with Khione, but that seems to be impossible now."Okay.." Astrea smiled for a little, "While waiting.. don't drink too." She closed the lid of the red wine before placing it back on the table, "The food will be ready in a few minutes. Serving time is 30 minutes, will the beautiful lady be willing to wait?" Tumikhim naman siya before she added, "Willing to wait for the food, rather." A soft giggle escaped from the Professor's lips. "Yes, Ms. Luceria." She gave her a little bow, "Okay then." Agad na bumaba si Astrea and the panic ensues after realizing that she has to be quick on her feet. At dahil naawa rin siya kay Ameel na halatang antok na ay inutusan niya na itong isarado ang restaurant at umuwi na. After securing that the restaurant was closed, she went to the kitchen and wore an apron, a hairnet and a cap.Mushroom soup, Steak Fettuccine Alfredo, and Greek Salad. The dessert; Rose Pudding has been stored in the fridge so she'll just have to serve it once the Professor will be done eating. Nakasentro sa pagluluto si Astrea, remembering what Chef Louis has taught her for the past couple of weeks, hindi rin naman siya nahirapan because cooking has been a second nature to her since she was a kid. She doesn't have any doubts about her own cooking at all.27 minutes passed and she was done plating the food that the Professor ordered. She had a proud smile on her face, and made herself presentable first before going upstairs, serving each of the food she just cooked.Her eyes were searching for Vivien as she was not in her seat earlier, unti-unti niyang ibinaba ang mga pagkain sa lamesa nang makita niya ito na nasa tabi ng malaking Telescope. Her back was facing her, and the wind was blowing on her hair and her flowy dress. Astrea swallowed the lump in her throat because even if she hasn't seen her upfront, it's crazy how she still looks beautiful. "Ms. Del Mundo.." Her voice called out her name, and it didn't take long for the Professor to look back at her. "Your food is here." "..I'll be there in a moment." Hearing that, she was left with no choice but to let her stay there. The upper deck was an open space, at sa paglalim ng gabi, ay ang paglakas rin ang simoy ng hangin. Astrea tucked her hair behind her ears and exhaled silently as she walked towards her direction.She stood beside her, looking at the sky above. "The moon seems to be hiding from me." Vivien says with a hint of sadness in her tone. Astrea wondered if there was a meaning behind that, but looking at the moon in the sky, she thought that maybe she meant it figuratively and literally."You know what pushed me to have the idea of confessing tonight?" Napalingon si Astrea sa kanya, naghihintay sa kung anong sasabihin niya. "I wanted to take a chance." Napahawak siya sa railings, her delicate hands felt the coldness of the wood. "Even though it's quite obvious that I might not get the answer I want to hear from her.. I prepared myself for this moment, if I hear a rejection, then I would still gladly accept it. I may feel hurt and saddened by it, and it will probably last for days.. but at the end of the day, I'll still willingly choose to be by her side. May it be a friend, or not." "What made you love her, Ms. Del Mundo?" Nang itanong ni Astrea 'yon ay parang may sandamakmak na pako ang nakabaon sa lalamunan niya. But she has been genuinely curious about it since she knew about the latter's feelings for Khione. Kaya kahit masakit— gusto niya din maintindihan ang dahilan. "..You don't have to have a reason when it comes to love, Ms. Luceria.." Her smile was so genuine just by thinking about her, "When you love someone, you love them beyond all reason." How many times does Astrea have to take a hit just by listening to her talk about someone else? "..And you're willing to stay by her side kahit paulit-ulit ka ng nasasaktan?""Because I'd rather want to be the one hurting instead of her." Vivien looked at her and stared deeply in her eyes, "..She's worth every pain I feel. And you said it yourself too, Ms. Luceria. Even if the pain is unbearable, giving up on the person you love is even worse. And until my love for her is still here.. which I don't think will be gone for a long time, I'll always be here to help and protect her in ways that I can and I know." Was Astrea turning numb from all of this? Or she just perfectly understand all of what the Professor has said? Ang nangyayari ay parang mas tumitindi din ang nararamdaman niya para sa kanya. How can she possibly give up on the her when the Professor was also holding on to what she said to her that night at the playground. It feels like a complicated mess.Both were on the same page, but on different chapters. That's what Astrea feels. Her face hardened as she saw that the Professor had tears on her face again, "..But what I can't accept.. is her being hurt by the person she loves, and I can't do anything about it because her happiness matters to me the most. And if I'm gonna be the one who takes that happiness away from her, hindi ko kakayanin na makita siyang malugmok at masaktan ulit." Hindi maintindihan ni Astrea ang pinapahiwatig ng Propesora, but she just listened and didn't say anything at all. Suddenly, she just pulled the Professor closer to her, wrapping her in her arms. Nabigla man si Vivien sa ginawa niya ay hinayaan niya na lang ang sarili na kumalma sa bisig niya, it was strangely.. comforting. Hindi niya inakalang.. minsan ay kailangan niya din pala ng taong handang makinig sa kanya.Because she has been doing it for others, that it felt strange to her to receive it from someone instead. Ilang minuto din silang nagtagal sa ganoong posisyon, hanggang sa humiwalay na ang Propesora sa kanya, at katahimikan na naman ang bumalot sa kanila. Inaya niya na itong kumain dahil baka lumamig na ng tuluyan ang pagkain, but fortunately, it was still warm to eat, sa ilang oras niyang paghihintay ay nakaramdam na din siya ng gutom."It's delicious. I should thank the Chef for waiting and cooking these food I ordered. I kind of feel bad dahil anong oras na pero pinagluto pa rin ako. But, Tita Maricar was right. The food is amazing." Vivien said while savoring the flavors of the steak fettucine alfredo, "Is the Chef still downstairs?"Tila nahihiya namang napakamot si Astrea, sino ba naman ang hindi mahihiya kung yung taong gusto mo ay nagustuhan ang niluto mo, diba? "The.. uhh.. chef.. um, I was the one who made your food, miss." She faked a cough sabay iwas ng tingin.Vivien was surprised to hear that, she didn't expect that the younger would have such talent. "Wow.." She exclaimed, "You're also a chef here?""Ah hindi po." Umiiling niyang sagot, "I was taught by our Chef.""Oooh." She smiles, "Well, I should say it to you again. Your food is amazing.. you're a talented kid, Ms. Luceria." Biglang nanginit ang mga pisnge ni Astrea, dahil sa hiyang nararamdaman ay napayuko nalang ito which earned a soft chuckle from the Professor. Bigla namang tumayo si Vivien at kinuha ang bouquet na nasa kabilang upuan at nilagay ito sa hindi kalayuang table. "You should eat with me.""Po?" Napataas noo naman si Astrea."Madami pa naman 'tong pagkain. And you're waiting with me too, it would be rude if I just let you stand there.""Am I making you uncomfortable? My apologies, Ms. Del Mundo. Sa baba nalang po ako.""No, I want you to join me here." She walked closer to her and held her hand, "You're not making me uncomfortable." Astrea didn't know how to respond and just let the older one guide her to her seat, when she was about to be served by her, agad niya itong pinigilan, "Ako na po." Both of them started to eat in silence. Astrea was quite happy and satisfied to see the Professor enjoying the food, kahit alam naman niya na sa kaloob-looban niya ay hindi pa rin maayos ang nararamdaman niya. But she believed that maybe Professor Del Mundo really knows how to handle herself well. She admired her for that. Later that night, naubos na rin ang red wine na nakakalahati na ni Vivien kanina, the latter insisted even if Astrea was against it at sinabi niya pa that she doesn't have to pay for the it as long as hindi na rin niya ito iinumin.But Vivien has her own ways to let the younger one say yes. Now, she's looking through the telescope to get a bigger view of the sky. As she adjusted the lens, she could see the moon, partially hidden behind a veil of clouds. The stars twinkled, their faint light reaching out to her from millions of light years away. "You know, I used to go to famous planetariums. I remember going to Hayden Planetarium in New York a couple of years ago, and I'd go jump from one country to another just to learn and watch how each constellation was made." Nagk-kwento siya habang patuloy na tumitingin sa telescope. Astrea, on the other hand, was behind her, watching her with a smile. "You really love this, don't you?" Vivien nodded once. "Of course.. It's like I'm seeing a whole new world up there."The younger one was curious to know how she got interested about it, but remembering that she already asked her and it seemed like the Professor was hesitating, she didn't dare to ask anymore. Vivien turned to her and motioned for Astrea to come closer. "Come here, I have something to show you." She said, stepping aside to give Astrea a view through the telescope.As they continued to observe the night sky, Vivien started talking about the different constellations and their significance. She explained how each star had a story behind it, and how ancient civilizations used them for navigation and storytelling. Astrea listened intently, hanging on to every word that came out of the Professor's mouth.When she caught herself almost staring at her the moment Vivien looked at her, she got flustered all of a sudden and avoided her gaze at her, trying to hide the fact that she got lost in listening to her. A few moments later, they were back on their spot earlier, ilang minuto na rin silang nakatayo doon. "I guess it's time for me to accept that she'll never come." Vivien uttered with a bitter smile, "..But compared to what I felt earlier, it got better now." "Maybe because you got to drink two bottles of wine.""Hey, hindi ah." She laughed softly, and turned to face her. "I want to say thank you for your good company. One of the great decisions I made is picking Constellations for tonight. If it were a different restaurant, maybe all I did all night was weep and make a fool out of myself."Astrea sighed as she smiled at her, "..I can't believe that I get to witness Professor Del Mundo wait for someone.""Oh please,""Sa susunod.. wag niyo na po 'tong gawin.""And why not?"Natahimik naman si Astrea dahil sa tanong niya, "Hindi po bagay sa inyo ang paghintayin." Vivien didn't know how to respond to that answer, she didn't expect it either. Iniwas niya ang tingin sa estudyante at napangiti ng mapakla. "..I better go home."12:30 am.Hinatid ni Astrea si Vivien sa labas ng restaurant nito as she made sure that the Professor got inside her car safely, Vivien smiled at her and thanked her again for what she did tonight. "I'm sorry that you had to be home so late." Saad niya, halata sa mukha ang pangangamba. "Are you sure you're going to be alright here?""Opo, don't worry about it." Astrea assured her, "Ingat po kayo sa pagd-drive at sa pag-uwi." "I will.. thanks, Ms. Luceria." Matapos magpaalam ay pinaandar na ni Vivien ang sasakyan at kumaway muna bago tuluyang magdrive paalis ng restaurant.While Astrea's eyes followed her car before it finally got lost in her sight. Napakapit naman siya sa may bandang dibdib dahil sa unti-unting pagbilis ng takbo nito. She's aware that it always happen whenever the Professor is around her. After what happened tonight, she finally felt the exhaustion creeping in, but she has to do her job before going home. Remembering what Khione had done made her resent her after what happened tonight. She doesn't want to see Vivien in that state again, lalong lalo na kung ang dahilan nito ay dahil lang sa babaeng 'yon. Hindi niya na hahayaan na masaktan pa itong muli, and that night marked Astrea's promise to herself to protect her.
...
AstreaIt has been a week after that night happened. I finally talked to Khione and told her about what she did to Professor Del Mundo, all I feel for her is resentment. How can she act normal after knowing that the Professor waited for her for 6 hours that night? It was just right for me to say things to her without regret. "Look at these shots!" Tatum shrieked as she was looking through the pictures of Khione in my camera, "No wonder she's popular in the campus.. ang ganda niya, she really looks like a model. Don't you think so?""I don't care." I answered before snatching my camera away from her, "If it weren't for the deadline, I would've looked for another model." "Eh?" Tatum frowned. "She's a great choice. Plus, your shots? your angles? Perfect combo!" I rolled my eyes sabay iling at ligpit ng camera ko sa loob ng bag, "Mauna na ako. I'll edit these photos and pass it now. Deadline ko na bukas ng gabi." "When will you let me visit your unit?" "Wala akong balak." I'm not used to people coming into my own space, so I've never invited anyone at all. Si Karis lang naman ang pinapayagan ni Tita Sandra before because she's so persistent. But now that I have my own space, it's not that easy for people to just come in. "Ingat ka pauwi!" She waved goodbye at me as we went into different directions, pauwi na din kasi siya, she'll be waiting for a cab while I only walk dahil ilang minuto lang din naman ang lalakarin ko. Once I was home, I immediately took a bathe, fixed some mess in the unit before going inside the studio to edit the pictures.It wasn't that hard to shoot her at all, even if I hate to admit it, she knows how to play with the camera and look good too. It was an outdoor shoot, Georgina also helped since I can't be alone with that girl, dahil inis pa rin ako sa ginawa niya. She became the messenger and did all the talking while I just told her what I wanted her to relay to Khione. That's what she gets after getting me into this contest. But it was actually fun. I wanted to explore more about Photography and I kind of learned some techniques to make the photos have its own creative touch. I yawned as I finally finished retouching and editing the pictures, I then uploaded it to a gdrive folder. Medyo matagal ang process kaya hinayaan ko nalang muna ito, I then left the studio and was shocked to see that it was already evening.Alas syete na pala ng gabi, I was working since 3 pm. I checked my refrigerator to see if I had some beverages or food, and when I saw that it was close to empty. I sighed in frustration because I had to buy outside instead.Well.. there's nothing to do.Kaya nagbihis na ako ng pantalon and put on some hoodie bago bumaba sa parking lot. I'll be going to the closest grocery store which is 15 minutes away from my place. Wala ako ngayon sa resto dahil nagpaalam ako kay Tita na hindi muna papasok since I'll be doing all the editing today for the contest. Doing groceries isn't really my thing, usually si Tita Sandra ang gumagawa nito 'nung nandoon pa ako sa bahay, but now that I'm alone, I'm forced to buy things for myself. I just bought some essentials and food that I'll be needing for a whole month. Kalahating oras din ako nagtagal sa grocery store before going out to put what I bought inside the trunk of the car."Just give me a chance, baby. I've changed this time, I won't hurt you the way I did before—""Please, stop. If I knew that you were going to force me this time, hindi na dapat ako sumama sa'yo. Why can't you understand that I want you to leave me alone? You've changed? Really? So that's why you've been sending me all those texts threatening me that you'll kidnap Moon if I don't talk to you." That familiar voice and mentioning Moon's name made me stop what I was doing. Wait.. hindi naman siguro si Moon na aso ni Professor Del Mundo ang tinutukoy niya?"That's the only thing that will make you listen to me, goddamn it! Dahil sa pesteng aso mo, that's why you're refusing to listen to me, Vivien?!" "—Ouch! Savien, you're hurting me!" My head immediately turned as I heard her name. And my brows creased when I saw her in a far distance, with a man gripping on her arm tightly. Tangina, is that her ex?That douchebag son of a—"You know what, I've had enough of you. Come on, let's go." Pilit niyang hinihila si Professor Del Mundo, which made my blood boiled with anger, halata namang ayaw ng tao, bakit pinipilit pa din?I could see the discomfort on her face and my blood boiled with anger. How dare he harass her like this?"Let go of me, Savien. We're already over, you don't have the right to do this to me!" I could see that he was pulling on her arm, trying to force her to go with him, but he wasn't listening. At that moment, I forgot all my fears and doubts and ran towards them. Parang nawalan na ako ng kontrol sa sarili as I quickened my pace to go to them."You heard her." I say as I swing my fist straight to his face. He stumbled back, surprised by my sudden appearance. I could see the shock on Professor Del Mundo's face as she recognized me. But before she could say anything, Savien lunged at me, and punched me back.As I looked at Professor Del Mundo, I could see that she was shaken but also relieved to see me."Who the fuck are you?!" He went on with his anger as he grabbed me by the collar."Savien, tama na!" I could hear her trying to stop him, but I just smirked after seeing him up close.Tangina, ang pangit na nga ng ugali, pangit pa ng mukha. 'Di nalang bumawi sa kagandahang asal."You're hurting her. Doesn't matter who I am, dumbass." I wiped the blood from my lip, and the next thing happened, he was crouching on the floor, and was holding on to his private part. Aba, sino talaga ang hindi masasaktan kung sinipa diba? Serves him right. I wasn't done with him dahil pinilit niya pa talagang tumayo."Ms. Luceria, stop that right now!" I didn't listen to her as my head was in a daze, looks like he doesn't want to back down either. "Ah, so is this the student you were interested in? Damn, Vivien. I didn't know that you'd turned out to be a fucking lesbi—"Ramdam ko ang pamumuo ng galit ko dahil sa narinig, lalong lalo na nang makita ko ang sakit sa mukha ni Professor Del Mundo. Who the hell is he to even say that to her? "Ako yung insultuhin mo, gago." Muli ko itong sinunggaban ng isang suntok, and this time, I pushed him on the ground.He was bigger and stronger than me, and he managed to land a few hits on me. But I didn't care, all I could think about was protecting Professor Del Mundo. I could see that my punches were having a greater impact on him, and it gave me a sense of satisfaction. I wanted him to know that he couldn't mess with her anymore.It was just in time when two security guards and police officers immediately separated me from him, and I wanted to punch him one last time if it weren't only for Professor Del Mundo coming up to me to stop me from doing so.We were both panting and bruised, but I could see that he was in worse shape. He had a bloody nose and a black eye, while I only had a few scratches. I couldn't help but smirk at the sight of him."Ayan, lagay niyo siya kung saan siya nababagay, sa presinto!" Sigaw ko at akmang susundan pa sana sila but I was held by Professor Del Mundo who looked at me with concern in her eyes. "You don't have to come with them. I already filed a restraining order against him, my lawyer will be the one to handle the case. I'm sure that he'll get the punishment he deserves." She explained briefly before holding my face, "Oh gosh, look at you."I winced in pain when she touched my upper lip, "I'm fine, Ms. Del Mundo. Kayo po? okay lang po ba kayo? He was harassing you earlier.""You're far from fine." She mumbled, "..I'm okay. Y-you saved me, thank you." That's what matters to me."Bakit po ba siya nandito? did he follow you? did he threatened you?"She shook her head softly, "I-it was my choice to meet with him. I've been receiving texts from him that he'll take Moon away from me if I don't talk to him kahit isang beses lang. Obviously it was just a trap, and a wrong decision." I nodded my head, hindi niya naman kasalanan 'yon. That jerk is just manipulative. Buti nalang at nakita ko sila dito, nasa mall kasi yung pinag grocery-han ko. So maybe they met up here."He's the wrong one here, I'm just glad that you're safe.""But it cost you this." "Sanay na po ako sa ganito." I answered, "Konting linis at gamot lang, okay na po ako.""Let's go to the hospital then.""Hindi na po, may kit po ako sa unit."She bit her lower lip as she seemed worried about me, hindi ko alam kung ano ang mararamdaman when she held my hand and pulled me away, "Where's your car?""R-right there." I pointed towards the direction of my parked car."Keys?""Wait, bakit po?""I'm coming with you. I can't let you leave like this.""M-ms. Del Mundo, hindi na po kailangan–""I'll come with you." She cuts me off, "Keys." In the end, wala na rin akong nagawa as I handed her the keys from my pocket. And it seemed natural when she told me to stay still on the passenger seat as she went to the other side and drove the car with ease. I've been glancing to her time to time, and she seems like she's deep in her thoughts. Is she really that worried?I smiled sadly, I know that it's because of what happened to me and not because of me. Kailangan ko na talagang tigilan ang pag-iisip ng iba pa. Especially that I know she's into Avila so much.
...
I shyly let her inside the unit, buti na lang talaga at naka paglinis ako. She also helped me in bringing the groceries I bought earlier, even if I insisted na kaya ko naman, she was firm with saying no and helped me."Ah.. sa may counter niyo nalang po ilagay, Ms. Del Mundo. I'll fix it later." "Okay." She was walking around the unit, looking at the hanged pictures of me and Tita Sandra. It seems like she has some questions in her head, and that's probably about me not having any pictures of my family. That would be the first thing I'll think about too. "Gusto niyo po ba ng maiinom?""It's alright, where's your medical kit?""Ms. Del Mundo, I can do this on my own. Sa CR lang po ako, I'll be back quickly.""Are you sure?" Nag-aalala niyang tanong."Opo. I laid out some snacks I bought kanina, may juice din po.""Thank you.. go and fix yourself." I nodded as I went inside my room to get some new set of clothes sabay diretso sa loob ng cr.Hindi naman ako masyadong nasugatan, just a busted lip, some scratches on my neck and forehead. I quickly fixed myself and it took me a few minutes before I looked decent again. The last time I was in a fight like this was because of those guys who were disrespecting her before, all those were rooted because of 'men'. They really can't keep their trashy behavior to themselves, can't they?Pagkalabas ko ay hindi ko nakita si Professor Del Mundo, the snacks and drink were left untouched. But then I heard a sound coming from my photo studio, and I figured that she might be there. Pagkarating ko nga ay nakita ko na tinitignan niya pala ang mga pictures ni Khione sa laptop ko. "Ms. Del Mundo..""Oh my gosh!" She jumped in her seat and turned her head to look at me. "I'm sorry, I touched your things without your permission.""Okay lang po." Lumapit ako sa kanya, "You can still look at it."She smiled as she shook her head, "It's fine, are these the ones you'll pass for the contest?""Opo, I'm gonna pass it tonight." "Your shots were perfect." Tumingin ulit ito sa screen, at kita ko kung gaano niya ito hinahangaan. And I know that it's because of the subject."..Ms. Del Mundo." I called her name when she looked at me, "It's her, isn't it?"She wasn't surprised to hear my question. She had a sad smile and nodded her head."I didn't know that you were also close with her?""Hindi po ah," I frowned, "She was just recommended by Georgina.""Oh.." She stated, "There's no point in denying it since you already knew what I felt for her."I know. Sa sobrang dami ko ng alam, sumasama na yung loob ko sa kanya. She doesn't deserve you at all, Professor Del Mundo."Your secret is safe with me." I said, "You don't have to worry, Ms. Del Mundo.""I was never worried.." She replied, "I know you're a good person, Ms. Luceria. And I'm really grateful to have met you." Dug. Dug. Dug.Bwisit, I really can't control my heartbeat whenever she say things like that to me. Ang hirap pigilan. Ang hirap hindi mahalin ang isang tulad niya.I decided to redirect the topic by faking a cough and grabbing my camera out of flusteredness. "D-do you want to be my subject instead po? Just for fun.""Oh no, I'm not good at cameras."I think otherwise. May iilang litrato akong nakuhanan siya. She's a natural at this point."Please? Just this time."She thought of it for a moment before she stood up, "I felt bad for what happened.. so okay. Just once, and if I don't like how my face turns out in your shots.. Please delete it, okay?""Okay," I smiled, "Sa gitna po kayo."She chuckles softly as she follows my instructions. I looked through my viewfinder to check the angle but was mesmerized at how beautiful she was even without doing anything."What pose should I do?""A-ah.." I coughed as I could feel myself choking, "Just anything. Kahit ngumiti ka lang po, it's still fine."She nods her head again and started to pose subtly. Pinilit ko naman ang sarili na magfocus as I finally took her pictures. Damn, she looks simple with her look but it turned out perfect."Miss.. can you crouch down po?"She didn't say anything as she followed what I said and I did the same too. A few more shots and I finally told her to stand up as I was done, "Can I see the pictures?"Lumapit ito sa'kin as I showed her the pictures on my camera."I'm really not good at this.." She giggled shyly, "I wasn't ready that time!""Maganda pa rin naman." I unconsciously said, pero mukhang hindi niya naman ito napansin. "You really have a talent for photography." "I don't think so.""Hey, it's true."Hindi nalang ako sumagot as she was still viewing the pictures.[Astrea's shots.]
...
AstreaIt has been a week after that night happened. I finally talked to Khione and told her about what she did to Professor Del Mundo, all I feel for her is resentment. How can she act normal after knowing that the Professor waited for her for 6 hours that night? It was just right for me to say things to her without regret. "Look at these shots!" Tatum shrieked as she was looking through the pictures of Khione in my camera, "No wonder she's popular in the campus.. ang ganda niya, she really looks like a model. Don't you think so?""I don't care." I answered before snatching my camera away from her, "If it weren't for the deadline, I would've looked for another model." "Eh?" Tatum frowned. "She's a great choice. Plus, your shots? your angles? Perfect combo!" I rolled my eyes sabay iling at ligpit ng camera ko sa loob ng bag, "Mauna na ako. I'll edit these photos and pass it now. Deadline ko na bukas ng gabi." "When will you let me visit your unit?" "Wala akong balak." I'm not used to people coming into my own space, so I've never invited anyone at all. Si Karis lang naman ang pinapayagan ni Tita Sandra before because she's so persistent. But now that I have my own space, it's not that easy for people to just come in. "Ingat ka pauwi!" She waved goodbye at me as we went into different directions, pauwi na din kasi siya, she'll be waiting for a cab while I only walk dahil ilang minuto lang din naman ang lalakarin ko. Once I was home, I immediately took a bathe, fixed some mess in the unit before going inside the studio to edit the pictures.It wasn't that hard to shoot her at all, even if I hate to admit it, she knows how to play with the camera and look good too. It was an outdoor shoot, Georgina also helped since I can't be alone with that girl, dahil inis pa rin ako sa ginawa niya. She became the messenger and did all the talking while I just told her what I wanted her to relay to Khione. That's what she gets after getting me into this contest. But it was actually fun. I wanted to explore more about Photography and I kind of learned some techniques to make the photos have its own creative touch. I yawned as I finally finished retouching and editing the pictures, I then uploaded it to a gdrive folder. Medyo matagal ang process kaya hinayaan ko nalang muna ito, I then left the studio and was shocked to see that it was already evening.Alas syete na pala ng gabi, I was working since 3 pm. I checked my refrigerator to see if I had some beverages or food, and when I saw that it was close to empty. I sighed in frustration because I had to buy outside instead.Well.. there's nothing to do.Kaya nagbihis na ako ng pantalon and put on some hoodie bago bumaba sa parking lot. I'll be going to the closest grocery store which is 15 minutes away from my place. Wala ako ngayon sa resto dahil nagpaalam ako kay Tita na hindi muna papasok since I'll be doing all the editing today for the contest. Doing groceries isn't really my thing, usually si Tita Sandra ang gumagawa nito 'nung nandoon pa ako sa bahay, but now that I'm alone, I'm forced to buy things for myself. I just bought some essentials and food that I'll be needing for a whole month. Kalahating oras din ako nagtagal sa grocery store before going out to put what I bought inside the trunk of the car."Just give me a chance, baby. I've changed this time, I won't hurt you the way I did before—""Please, stop. If I knew that you were going to force me this time, hindi na dapat ako sumama sa'yo. Why can't you understand that I want you to leave me alone? You've changed? Really? So that's why you've been sending me all those texts threatening me that you'll kidnap Moon if I don't talk to you." That familiar voice and mentioning Moon's name made me stop what I was doing. Wait.. hindi naman siguro si Moon na aso ni Professor Del Mundo ang tinutukoy niya?"That's the only thing that will make you listen to me, goddamn it! Dahil sa pesteng aso mo, that's why you're refusing to listen to me, Vivien?!" "—Ouch! Savien, you're hurting me!" My head immediately turned as I heard her name. And my brows creased when I saw her in a far distance, with a man gripping on her arm tightly. Tangina, is that her ex?That douchebag son of a—"You know what, I've had enough of you. Come on, let's go." Pilit niyang hinihila si Professor Del Mundo, which made my blood boiled with anger, halata namang ayaw ng tao, bakit pinipilit pa din?I could see the discomfort on her face and my blood boiled with anger. How dare he harass her like this?"Let go of me, Savien. We're already over, you don't have the right to do this to me!" I could see that he was pulling on her arm, trying to force her to go with him, but he wasn't listening. At that moment, I forgot all my fears and doubts and ran towards them. Parang nawalan na ako ng kontrol sa sarili as I quickened my pace to go to them."You heard her." I say as I swing my fist straight to his face. He stumbled back, surprised by my sudden appearance. I could see the shock on Professor Del Mundo's face as she recognized me. But before she could say anything, Savien lunged at me, and punched me back.As I looked at Professor Del Mundo, I could see that she was shaken but also relieved to see me."Who the fuck are you?!" He went on with his anger as he grabbed me by the collar."Savien, tama na!" I could hear her trying to stop him, but I just smirked after seeing him up close.Tangina, ang pangit na nga ng ugali, pangit pa ng mukha. 'Di nalang bumawi sa kagandahang asal."You're hurting her. Doesn't matter who I am, dumbass." I wiped the blood from my lip, and the next thing happened, he was crouching on the floor, and was holding on to his private part. Aba, sino talaga ang hindi masasaktan kung sinipa diba? Serves him right. I wasn't done with him dahil pinilit niya pa talagang tumayo."Ms. Luceria, stop that right now!" I didn't listen to her as my head was in a daze, looks like he doesn't want to back down either. "Ah, so is this the student you were interested in? Damn, Vivien. I didn't know that you'd turned out to be a fucking lesbi—"Ramdam ko ang pamumuo ng galit ko dahil sa narinig, lalong lalo na nang makita ko ang sakit sa mukha ni Professor Del Mundo. Who the hell is he to even say that to her? "Ako yung insultuhin mo, gago." Muli ko itong sinunggaban ng isang suntok, and this time, I pushed him on the ground.He was bigger and stronger than me, and he managed to land a few hits on me. But I didn't care, all I could think about was protecting Professor Del Mundo. I could see that my punches were having a greater impact on him, and it gave me a sense of satisfaction. I wanted him to know that he couldn't mess with her anymore.It was just in time when two security guards and police officers immediately separated me from him, and I wanted to punch him one last time if it weren't only for Professor Del Mundo coming up to me to stop me from doing so.We were both panting and bruised, but I could see that he was in worse shape. He had a bloody nose and a black eye, while I only had a few scratches. I couldn't help but smirk at the sight of him."Ayan, lagay niyo siya kung saan siya nababagay, sa presinto!" Sigaw ko at akmang susundan pa sana sila but I was held by Professor Del Mundo who looked at me with concern in her eyes. "You don't have to come with them. I already filed a restraining order against him, my lawyer will be the one to handle the case. I'm sure that he'll get the punishment he deserves." She explained briefly before holding my face, "Oh gosh, look at you."I winced in pain when she touched my upper lip, "I'm fine, Ms. Del Mundo. Kayo po? okay lang po ba kayo? He was harassing you earlier.""You're far from fine." She mumbled, "..I'm okay. Y-you saved me, thank you." That's what matters to me."Bakit po ba siya nandito? did he follow you? did he threatened you?"She shook her head softly, "I-it was my choice to meet with him. I've been receiving texts from him that he'll take Moon away from me if I don't talk to him kahit isang beses lang. Obviously it was just a trap, and a wrong decision." I nodded my head, hindi niya naman kasalanan 'yon. That jerk is just manipulative. Buti nalang at nakita ko sila dito, nasa mall kasi yung pinag grocery-han ko. So maybe they met up here."He's the wrong one here, I'm just glad that you're safe.""But it cost you this." "Sanay na po ako sa ganito." I answered, "Konting linis at gamot lang, okay na po ako.""Let's go to the hospital then.""Hindi na po, may kit po ako sa unit."She bit her lower lip as she seemed worried about me, hindi ko alam kung ano ang mararamdaman when she held my hand and pulled me away, "Where's your car?""R-right there." I pointed towards the direction of my parked car."Keys?""Wait, bakit po?""I'm coming with you. I can't let you leave like this.""M-ms. Del Mundo, hindi na po kailangan–""I'll come with you." She cuts me off, "Keys." In the end, wala na rin akong nagawa as I handed her the keys from my pocket. And it seemed natural when she told me to stay still on the passenger seat as she went to the other side and drove the car with ease. I've been glancing to her time to time, and she seems like she's deep in her thoughts. Is she really that worried?I smiled sadly, I know that it's because of what happened to me and not because of me. Kailangan ko na talagang tigilan ang pag-iisip ng iba pa. Especially that I know she's into Avila so much.
...
I shyly let her inside the unit, buti na lang talaga at naka paglinis ako. She also helped me in bringing the groceries I bought earlier, even if I insisted na kaya ko naman, she was firm with saying no and helped me."Ah.. sa may counter niyo nalang po ilagay, Ms. Del Mundo. I'll fix it later." "Okay." She was walking around the unit, looking at the hanged pictures of me and Tita Sandra. It seems like she has some questions in her head, and that's probably about me not having any pictures of my family. That would be the first thing I'll think about too. "Gusto niyo po ba ng maiinom?""It's alright, where's your medical kit?""Ms. Del Mundo, I can do this on my own. Sa CR lang po ako, I'll be back quickly.""Are you sure?" Nag-aalala niyang tanong."Opo. I laid out some snacks I bought kanina, may juice din po.""Thank you.. go and fix yourself." I nodded as I went inside my room to get some new set of clothes sabay diretso sa loob ng cr.Hindi naman ako masyadong nasugatan, just a busted lip, some scratches on my neck and forehead. I quickly fixed myself and it took me a few minutes before I looked decent again. The last time I was in a fight like this was because of those guys who were disrespecting her before, all those were rooted because of 'men'. They really can't keep their trashy behavior to themselves, can't they?Pagkalabas ko ay hindi ko nakita si Professor Del Mundo, the snacks and drink were left untouched. But then I heard a sound coming from my photo studio, and I figured that she might be there. Pagkarating ko nga ay nakita ko na tinitignan niya pala ang mga pictures ni Khione sa laptop ko. "Ms. Del Mundo..""Oh my gosh!" She jumped in her seat and turned her head to look at me. "I'm sorry, I touched your things without your permission.""Okay lang po." Lumapit ako sa kanya, "You can still look at it."She smiled as she shook her head, "It's fine, are these the ones you'll pass for the contest?""Opo, I'm gonna pass it tonight." "Your shots were perfect." Tumingin ulit ito sa screen, at kita ko kung gaano niya ito hinahangaan. And I know that it's because of the subject."..Ms. Del Mundo." I called her name when she looked at me, "It's her, isn't it?"She wasn't surprised to hear my question. She had a sad smile and nodded her head."I didn't know that you were also close with her?""Hindi po ah," I frowned, "She was just recommended by Georgina.""Oh.." She stated, "There's no point in denying it since you already knew what I felt for her."I know. Sa sobrang dami ko ng alam, sumasama na yung loob ko sa kanya. She doesn't deserve you at all, Professor Del Mundo."Your secret is safe with me." I said, "You don't have to worry, Ms. Del Mundo.""I was never worried.." She replied, "I know you're a good person, Ms. Luceria. And I'm really grateful to have met you." Dug. Dug. Dug.Bwisit, I really can't control my heartbeat whenever she say things like that to me. Ang hirap pigilan. Ang hirap hindi mahalin ang isang tulad niya.I decided to redirect the topic by faking a cough and grabbing my camera out of flusteredness. "D-do you want to be my subject instead po? Just for fun.""Oh no, I'm not good at cameras."I think otherwise. May iilang litrato akong nakuhanan siya. She's a natural at this point."Please? Just this time."She thought of it for a moment before she stood up, "I felt bad for what happened.. so okay. Just once, and if I don't like how my face turns out in your shots.. Please delete it, okay?""Okay," I smiled, "Sa gitna po kayo."She chuckles softly as she follows my instructions. I looked through my viewfinder to check the angle but was mesmerized at how beautiful she was even without doing anything."What pose should I do?""A-ah.." I coughed as I could feel myself choking, "Just anything. Kahit ngumiti ka lang po, it's still fine."She nods her head again and started to pose subtly. Pinilit ko naman ang sarili na magfocus as I finally took her pictures. Damn, she looks simple with her look but it turned out perfect."Miss.. can you crouch down po?"She didn't say anything as she followed what I said and I did the same too. A few more shots and I finally told her to stand up as I was done, "Can I see the pictures?"Lumapit ito sa'kin as I showed her the pictures on my camera."I'm really not good at this.." She giggled shyly, "I wasn't ready that time!""Maganda pa rin naman." I unconsciously said, pero mukhang hindi niya naman ito napansin. "You really have a talent for photography." "I don't think so.""Hey, it's true."Hindi nalang ako sumagot as she was still viewing the pictures.[Astrea's shots.]
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