MOA - Chapter 4

Chapter 4

The night is calm and cold just like the way his heart feels… Tranquil and Remote. The room was in the middle of silence as Eric was tolerating his mind drift with all the events that took place last evening. Undoing back what happened last dusk makes his heart breathtaking in such a way that he would wish to die instead than to wake up for another tomorrow of despair and loneliness. He can’t forget what happened. Every detail of it had become a memory of his love for her, exciting or throbbing, a night filled with laughter, which turned to tears.

It was the time he was tickling Alex on her waist. He was on top of her, and her hands were on his shoulders. A really roguish and suspicious position, which is quite malicious for critics. She was laughing gleefully as he goes on his manner of tomfoolery. When unexpectedly, the connecting door opened widely, from there stood a familiar shadow of a man whose eyes are watching them like an eagle ready to attack his prey, and both of them immobilized.

The handsome chap was now standing in front of them, looking at Alex’ eyes in a calm manner, but instead, Alex turned pale and blue to saw him there, afraid to hear his voice, scared to see that he had witnessed a scene not to be done by civilized and educated citizens, an occurrence filled with malevolence acted by his fiancée and his childhood sweetie’s cousin. She was frightened and trembling to look at Aaron’s eyes, more so ever, she was terrified to glance back at Eric. For her, the incident that took place is not just degrading but very humiliating, indeed.

Punished me, Aaron, for I had been disloyal to you not by what you had perceived but by what I really felt for the reason that it was factual all along that I enjoyed everything we did, every happenings which turned out to be a sign of my betrayal to you, everything I had shared with my best friend. Please tell me you hated me and that I am guilty for what I did. Please hurt me the way I hurt you now. I beg you. Do it now! She told to herself, unable to glimpse at the person she was guilty of something.

He came nearer to her, draws his body closer towards her, his hands were wide open. Is he going to grab me and hurt me? Battered me like the other men did to their unfaithful wives? She whispered deep down her mind, trying to control her tension. Aaron’s hand suddenly rose up high, tugging nearby and almost approaching toward her. “His going to make his first attack! This could be more painful but I should accept what it takes to be. I should be punished,” she said to herself, blaming herself of hurting the man in front of her, suspicious of what he saw. She closed her eyes, tremulous and petrified to experience what will happen next.

She didn’t felt anything, not a single slap on her young angelic face. Why would I address myself as an angel when I am guilty of doing a crime? It should be evil and devilish, she thought. There was a warm feeling inside her, holding her gently, full of affection and romance whose hands are mildly placed around her body, pressing his hardness against hers and it was the moment she realized that Aaron was embracing her.

Slowly, tears began to explode in her eyes; she’s no longer trembling because she had unleashed the fear inside her. She felt safer by the time Aaron holds her, letting her felt that he is not infuriated for what he found out. She instantly cuddled him and wept endlessly. She took a hard time spreading out the right words to come out of her lips. She finds difficulty searching for words to say and she only told him two words… plain and clear… and that was “I’m sorry.”

Eric was there frozen and still, watching their romantic scene, controlling the green-eyed monster to swallow him, wrapped in loneliness of seeing them holding close together in front of him. He wanted to cry as well but he won’t, of course. He wished that he was Aaron and that he was the one surrounding her with his arms, feeling her warmth and satisfying his heart’s content. But all he could do was to look at them, stared at them closely and glared at every movement, action and gesture they did like he was just watching a movie silently. Unfortunately, it wasn’t a movie. It was reality and the veracity had killed him at a snail’s pace, tearing his heart into pieces.

I was right after all. He told to himself. Damn myself! I almost believe in myself. Almost. All the ideas I had in mind and suggested had become to be a root of success… But now, I have nothing left but failure. There is neither a triumph nor victory. He had won the battle. I let her go. I can’t take her back now. Why in the hell would I believe that I could take her back when it is already too late? He loves her. And she… Alex… loves him. Right? She said so. And the evidence of their genuine love is here now, right beside me, and all I have to do is to watch, and tore my heart apart.

“There’s no need to say sorry, Alex. I won’t believe what I had in mind. I love you forever and it won’t change a bit. Never,” he whispered Alex soothingly, smoothing out the words of encouragement that touched her heart and make her comfortable and at ease. “I love you, too, Aaron. I love you so much,” she replied in a whisper but Eric had heard what she said and it was the most distressing words that he never wished to hear from her. “I – I thought you’ll hate me. I was so afraid. I wouldn’t live if you leave me, Aaron. I love you from any other man in this world and I will always belong to you forever,” she added, revealing the words she had wanted to tell Eric for so long but instead, confessed it to another person, which happened to be Eric’s greatest rival.

Hearing those words, Eric dreamed he has a heart attack right away. He imagined himself catching his breath helplessly, stopping the two confessed each other’s feelings, having Alex’s attention and leaving Aaron behind sobbing… Sad to say, but it ended up being just a daydream. The truth is he was sitting on the corner of his bedroom; eyes opened and completely wide awake to witness that agonizing moment.

There’s no way you could take her back. Not now or never. You gave her to me and I found out that I was deeply in love with her until now. And then, you’re trying to steal her from me? You won’t succeed. She belongs to me, Aaron thought and he smiled unnoticed. He won twice a victory now. For Alex confessing him her true feelings towards him, and watching Eric in depression, he claims himself to be the winner. Accidentally, Eric sneezed loudly and luckily, he had their attention… Alex’s attention basically. The lovers stared at him surprisingly. “Excuse me,” Eric apologized with a smile.

Alex is now aware of what was happening, the precise and definite thing that was occurring. She ended up with a conclusion that she couldn’t bear herself. She was terrified, afraid Aaron would hurt her, but instead, he hugged her and told her words that overwhelmed her. And then she began confessing what she felt for Eric, wherein out of the blue, she had told it to Aaron. The most worst thing she had done was, she never realized that Eric was right beside them watching and listening to every word she had told to Aaron which is really for him.

“Oh! I thought you were gone,” Aaron informed him. “Unfortunately, I am not,” Eric replied with a forced smile. “We better give ourselves a little privacy. I guess we were disturbing you a lot. I’m so sorry,” he apologized humbly. “No, actually it’s okay. It seems like I was just watching a movie here. It entertained me well. You really have a great performance,” Eric said awkwardly to insult Aaron. I won’t be trap with that one, you fool, Aaron thought. “Really? I never thought we could be great artists. We haven’t finished doing our climax. Would you like to watch the rest of the show?” he asked naughtily. “W-what are you talking about, Aaron?” Alex whispered to him with one eyebrow raised and eyes confused. “Just watch,” he replied silently that Eric was unable to hear it.

“It would be my pleasure,” Eric said. What is he thinking? I don’t have any idea what he’s going to do. Would he kiss Alex before me? Or would he slide his hands along her thighs and start making love with her? Would he drive her in her room or in my own bed as he wipe her body with his lips? What am I thinking? I’m really going in to it. Tomorrow, I’ll find myself in the mental hospital lying in a bed with a white cloth on my face. And I’ll die there just for having the thought that I am crazy about Alex. No… I’m already silly. And becoming more passionate for letting go of her. How I wish the climax would not be as bad as what I think. How I wish! He told to himself.

He has no idea what Aaron is up to but he’ll be ready. When he was about to look at Aaron, a large thing hit his jaw that helps him get a restful sleep. It was already late in the afternoon when he woke up. There was a pitcher and a basin of water in his table lamp, and a white cloth on his face. His face felt an excruciating pain and his body was unable to move. He had become entirely a motionless human being. He felt tired and weary. And then he recalled what happened last night. Every data had been saved up into his memory and it will never be erased. He felt more depressed than ever, unable to stand up not because of the physical twinge but the heartbreaking memories of last night that makes his heart bleed.

Anita came in and checked his temperature with a thermometer. “W-what happened?” He quickly asked. “I’m glad you regain your consciousness back again, sir. Mr. Miller told me that he punched you and lost consciousness. But he assured me that it wouldn’t kill you a bit. He has a doctor to prove that. The doctor said that you just need to rest for a day, then tomorrow you will be as good as before again,” Anita informed him. “H-how’s…” He hesitated at first but then he presided. “How’s Alex?” There was a quick reaction that was shown in Anita’s face, full of uncertainty, which had puzzled Eric. “W-what happened to her? Tell me!” He was so worried with Anita’s face turning white.

Would I say the truth? But Ms. Laurence… I promised her to keep that a secret. This could be really awful, sir… but a promise is a promise, she mulled over. “I – ah… Mr. Andrews…” There was a pause, a moment of silence inside her, making up her mind, forcing herself to tell a lie to her master who had trusted her for so many years. “You don’t need to worry about Ms. Laurence. She’s in the party with the rest of the guests, enjoying the conversations she had with your grandmother,” she replied. “I see,” he said. “Well… Did you find her here last night?” He questioned her again.

“Of course, sir. I was delivering your midnight snack, when I saw her in the pathway. She was… worried, in a hurry and… crying, sir,” she told the truth. “Really?” There was a feeling of satisfaction inside him the instant he heard that she was worried and crying, in a hurry to ask for help. “What happened next?” he asked excitedly. Did she stay with me last night? Tell me, he thought. “I’m afraid, sir, but after she accompanied me to your room, she left with Mr. Miller. I guess Mr. Miller had discovered our clandestine about the connection door, sir. They went through it and he slept on her room last night.” Half of it were a lie, the remaining were true.

He hastily discerned himself feeling deserted again. He can’t stop visualizing what they did on her room. They could have made love to each other during the remaining hours, exploring her precious body with his lips. Then, he paused for a while and thought, “What am I thinking? I’m going to die like this.” He dredged up the concepts and different ideas that came into his mind before he lost awareness. It almost came true, except for the fact that he’s not in a mental hospital… for now.

Anita left, and there was Alex outside her room waiting for her. “How is he?” she asked fearfully. “She’s alright, Ms. Laurence. Well… he’s physically alright,” she confessed her. “W-what do you mean?” she interrogated astonishingly in a perplexed way. “His face turned cold and dead when he learned that Mr. Miller slept at your room, Ms. Laurence,” she professed. “I guess we’re burying him alive, Ms. Laurence,” she asserted. “You really have to see him,” she suggested. I’d love to… but after what happened… I guessed it would be better not to get close with him for a while. She decided.

MOA - Chapter 3

Chapter 3

After the party and all the dancing, Alex and Aaron decided to stay at the balcony of the Kruger Hills Mansion near the swimming pool. They were soaking their feet in the crystal clear water while watching the stars beneath the dark blue sky. “One week…” Aaron exclaimed. “I have one week to live a king’s life, dear,” he continued. “W-what do you mean?” Alex asked. “This place is what we call paradise, honey. The spots, the parties at night, the beaches, the rooms, and everything! I love this place, Alex. And I feel very lucky for Eric to have this paradise,” he added.

Alex was shut in silence staring at the stars. “I guess Eric has everything as in everything, dear. The money, the power, the popularity… his life is perfectly wonderful,” he said. “But I feel luckier than him, dear. Eric could have all the power in the world but I have you, Alex. And for having you in my life makes me feel complete, dear,” he confessed. Alex caught his attention. She looked back at him straight to the eyes rewinding up every single word that had came out into his mouth. Having you in my life makes me feel complete. But…do you really have me? She thought to herself.

She remembers the time Eric had kissed her and the way she tried to resist but had ended up replying to his lips. And now, she stares at the man she had chosen after Eric. She knew something was wrong about her but she didn’t know what that is. Her conscience was disturbing her with odd questions. Did she really love Aaron? For all these years, why can’t she forget Eric? And the closest question to the answer was… Am I in love with my best friend? And the answer was definitely… a big I DON’T KNOW. And I don’t want to know!

Then unconsciously, tears began to appear on her eyes, falling slowly on her cheeks. She was crying and Aaron was watching her, shocked by her absence mentally. But he did not dare to ask for his instincts tell him that all along, Eric is involve with it. He touched her face and wiped her tears with his hands. And looked at her gently with a lovely smile on his face. “Is it a late reaction, dear?” he asked. “No…” was her quick reply. He draws her closer to him and hugs her; never want to let her go.

Alex has no idea what she was doing. All she thinks is the confusing questions that knock her head off. That suddenly, she holds his face facing her and blurted out the words she never wished to say. “Kiss me.” He gently pressed his lips from hers and they kissed. She had a quick response on it unlike the kiss from Eric. She tried to feel something different about it, the way she had felt with Eric. The kiss was long enough to take your breath away but that time, she felt nothing. Nothing at all. What they do not know was that someone was watching them from afar… Eric.

As he was watching the two, his mouth was shut with silence, unable to breathe to take what he was seeing. His face was in despair. He haves her… He’s the lucky one. And his heart broke to accept the truth that he can’t have her because he had let go of her and now; it’s hard to take her back. He decided to ignore what he was seeing and hurried back to his room, bearing the hurt within it.

When Alex had realized what she was doing and wasn’t able to breathe, she instantly pushed Aaron away, paused for a moment, looked at him directly and blurted out two words… “I’m sorry.”

“Was there something wrong?” Aaron asked.

“Nothing. I think I must go now, dear. Good night,” she replied. And she hurriedly walked away from him. Not looking back, feeling guilty over something. With that kiss, and with the kiss with Eric, she finds the big difference. But she can’t accept the big fact about it.

She reached her room, locked the door, lay on her bed and closed her eyes. Then she opened it again, and started talking to herself in silence. I should know why did he kiss me all along. I might know the answer. I guess. She thought. And she glanced at the connection door. A while later, she was walking in a tiptoe manner towards the door. She opened it slowly without any noise, and then entered inside.

There was no one inside. The bed wasn’t touched. Eric isn’t there. She looked around until she reached the hidden balcony beneath the curtains. From up there, she could see the wonders of the island, the views, the spots and everything. “What a sight!” she exclaimed. She suddenly felt at ease with what she was seeing, feeling the cool breeze touching her face, there was a minute of relaxation in that place. Then, she looked back at her and her eyes sparkled with what she saw. It was a telescope. But it’s not just any ordinary telescope you bought at selected stores… it was the telescope she gave to Eric as a Christmas Present way back then. She quickly recognized it because their initials were written on it.

She hurriedly but carefully walked towards it, held the telescope, and examined it slowly. “Now, where did I put that?” she asked. She’s studying the telescope, turning it over, scrutinizing every detail of that memorable device. Then, her face lightened up seeing the words printed in golden letters on it. “There it is!” she whispered. My love for you will always be as countless as the stars above… she read the words with her mind. She smiled and hugged the telescope tightly. Countless as the stars above… sounds like a vow of a married couple to me, she thought. Then she looked at the stars above using the telescope she was holding for the second time.

“One, two, three…” she whispered as she was counting the countless stars in heaven. She paused for a moment staring at the glass of the telescope. “Seventy-nine… eighty… eighty-one…” she continued counting again. Then there was silence again. “One hundred!” a voice exclaimed. “I’m already in one hundred twenty-eight,” she informed. “Oh, well… I’m counting too, you know,” there was a reply again. She was quickly alarmed by what she heard, put down her telescope and looked back. It was Eric, of course. Who else could it be? He was just right beside Alex facing her face-to-face.

He was watching her the time she tiptoed in his room silently. He stood beside her quietly when Alex was busy counting the stars. He was planning to surprised her, embarrassed her again for trespassing his room, but when she looked straight at him with fear, he finally forgot his plans. Instead, he was more surprised by what he saw in his best friend’s innocent face.

“Eric…” she quickly grasped. And Alex was suddenly speechless to say the next words to him. I know I am trespassing his room. And I am aware that I am playing his telescope without any permission. Lastly, the most embarrassing part here is that I entered his room in the middle of the night wearing pajamas. I’m absolutely running out of excuses and alibis to him. I must think quickly before I go to my bed with a red face, she thought.

He was watching her confused face again covered with fear. Her eyes couldn’t look straight at him. She was pale and frozen, speechless and silent. While Eric was amazed with the woman in front of him, completely hypnotized with her innocence and fear. Then suddenly, an inner voice inside him whispered. Touch her. And he followed. He placed his hands on her arms gently, looking straight in her eyes calmly but seriously.

Out of the blue, Alex’s confusion disappeared, and she was staring at her best friend’s eyes warmly. They were both frozen to move, as if time had stopped in that scene, with the two of them staring each other tenderly. Then again, the inner voice speaks softly in his ears telling him to kiss her. He carelessly gaped at her lips. And after that, he found himself drawing his face closer to hers, tempted to touch her kissable pinkish lips for the second time.

And Alex was frozen in his arms, like a cold dead animal, unable to move, unable to say a word, unable to stop him touch her. She wants that kiss because through that kiss, she knew all along that there was something different about it. It was the kiss from two persons in love with each other, priceless as it is. But then, she doesn’t want to allow it to happen again for she also know that she could end up falling in love more and more with her best friend.

His face was too close from her. His eyes could melt her. His lips could reach hers. However, all of a sudden, Eric paused for a moment in that position. He looked down for a split second, and he fixed his eyes on her again. Then he carefully uttered out the words in his mouth. “What are you doing here?” he asked in the blink of an eye without thinking just to stop him from being tempted.

Alex was suddenly startled by the question. She withdraws herself away from him and hurriedly searching for words to answer him. “I… ah… I was just wandering if you were sleeping. And I… ah… just want to check you. W-well, that is all. I am really sorry to disturb you. I just thought to check you for a minute that I may express my deep gratitude to you for the party. I… well, I heard you were in-in-charge of the arrangements and ah… well, you really arranged a great party. And ah… I also thank you for inviting me here. And for g-giving me a wonderful room to stay with. And ah,” she said carelessly, unaware that she was telling him too much. She stopped for a moment, thinking what she was saying to him, and realizing what she was doing. “Ah… I-I’m sorry for being a stupid talking machine in front of you,” she apologized humbly.

He smiled in return. “I-well, I better go now. I’m really sorry for disturbing you. G-good Night!” she told. She was about to go when unexpectedly, she sensed her self surrounded by Eric’s arms, holding her close to him tightly but mildly. “A-Alex…” he whispered. “Would you stay with me a little longer?” he asked. “Please, I beg you,” he pleaded. His eyes were closed, his hands were tightly embracing her body to his and his lips were in her ears. There was a minute of silence. Then finally, Alex placed her hands on his back, hugging him too, and her head lying on his chest with her eyes closed, listening as his heart beats.

“Eric, I’m sorry,” she whispered. “For what?” he asked. “I forgot to thank you for…” she blurted but paused for a moment. “For loving me, Alex…” he divulged. “Even just as a friend…” he hastily added. He placed his soft hands gently on her cheeks, looked into her brown eyes and watched her closely. Alex was unable to spread out the simple words coming from her mind. I did love you, Eric… more than a friend. Through all these years, my love for you hasn’t change a bit. It won’t fade and I can’t make it disappear… That sometimes, I wanted to blame you for being blind. Now, loving you is too late… now, loving you is wrong, Eric, she thought.

Unexpectedly, tears began to appear in Eric’s lovely green eyes. He was unaware of the teardrops falling slowly in his cheeks, as he was staring to his best friend’s expressive eyes. Deep inside him, he knew what she was thinking just through looking into her eyes. I was a complete fool to let you go, Alex, he thought. I love you so much. I wished to tell you that for so long, Alex. But now, the essence of those words had gone away just like the way I let you go, he moaned. Exactly the way I had let you go, he cried, bearing those words in his mind.

The tears falling in her best friend’s cheeks shocked Alex. She carefully looked into his wet eyes of tears and was tempted to place her hands on his face, wiping the tears in his eyes. “I-I’m sorry,” she whispered in a very low voice without looking straight on his eyes. Eric suddenly became aware of the tears flowing on his eyes that he situated his fingers on his cheeks, drying up all the tears falling in his eyes, unconsciously touching her hands. Furthermore when Alex felt his hands over hers, she fleetingly detached it from him to her pocket.

He continued drying his eyes without looking at her, moreover, without knowing that she was still there. “Ah… E-Eric… I was just wandering. W-what are those tears for, best?” she asked without any idea what she was thinking. Eric finally realized that Alex was still present in his room, marveling of his weird actions that took place a while ago. He glimpsed at her, studying her face like a doctor diagnosing his patient in a carefully careless manner. She wasn’t looking at him directly. Her face was full of confusion, he thought.

He constantly observed her anxious face. With a beam of light from the moon beneath the sky, he was able to see the hidden beauty of his best friend’s lovely face. Moreover, now, he was not just watching her confused face but he was also admiring the beauty, which was glimmering from the darkness of his room. She was exquisite, more beautiful than ever like an angel from the heavens above, he thought.

In the twinkling of an eye, both of them were staring at each other’s eyes looking for answers and replies, searching for any explanation from there endless questions which cannot be asked through their mouths but only with their eyes, the only window of the soul. “I cried… because I can’t help it, Alex,” he blurted out, controlling the hidden passion inside him that he may restrain his hands from touching her. “I-I can’t help yawning. I haven’t sleep for five days, see,” he added, clearing up what he just said accompanied with a yawning gesture. “I-I see,” she replied. “I guess I must be leaving now that you could rest then. Good Night again, Eric!” she informed.

“N-No… I didn’t mean that, pal. I want you to stay here with me a little longer. Please…” he begged. “But I thought you were drowsy already, Eric,” she countered. “Oh please, best. Stay, I beg you!” he pleaded, knelt down in front of her and held her knees tightly. “Hey, stop that!” she shouted. “Please… please!” he continued pleading, not listening to her with his eyes closed. “Okay… I’ll stay, Eric. Just stop that! You’re acting like a child again,” she answered. He quickly stood up and held her hands gently but tightly, gazed into her eyes and smiled. “But I am,” he proudly said.

He embraced her gently, pushed her into the bed, with him on top of her, laughing joyfully. He showed her his two fingers ready to attack her waist with a naughty smile. “Oh no, you don’t! Let me go, Eric!” she ordered. “Never!” he replied naughtily, tickling his best friend while he is on top of her. “S-stop!” she said, giggling cheerfully. She quickly placed her hands on his shoulders, giving enough effort to push him.

And the minute of laughter was halted when the connecting door opened; standing from there was a shadow of a man, whose eyes were angrily staring at them with full of doubt, cynicism and suspicion. 

MOA - Chapter 2

Chapter 2

Aaron was awake in his room. He can’t sleep. He can’t take Desiree off his mind. She is so beautiful until now. Suddenly, there was a knocked on the door. Oh! Alex, glad you came! He opened the door and to his surprise, it wasn’t his beloved Alex but the girl he kept on thinking about… Desiree. She was on her negligee showing a beautiful curve on her figure. She was smiling. “Would you let me see your room, Aaron?” she asked. A minute later, she was inside his room. “Nice suite!” she looked through the furnishings and the bed. “Eric arranged this for you. But I selected that king-size bed. I know you’ll come. I wanted to see you for so long, Aaron. I missed you,” she said. She went closer to Aaron and held his hands and placed it on her nipples. “Don’t you missed me?” she asked with that gorgeous look.

“Desiree, stop this nonsense!” He took off his hands. “No, please, don’t do this to me. I waited you for so long. You were the only one I loved, Aaron. I love you so much. Do you hear me? I love you!” she said and slowly tears began to flow. “You already forgot me… don’t you?” she continued. “That you never wished to see me. Well, I’m sorry for disturbing you. I better leave…” Aaron holds her on her waist then kissed her. And he could sense the quick response on her lips. “Desiree… I can never forget you. Your long absence had helped me forget you but when I saw you again, I suddenly realized that things had never changed. I loved you, too.” “You make me happy, Aaron. Would you make love to me?” she asked.

What?!!! Make love to you? Suddenly, he realized what he was doing. Alex… I love Alex. She trusted me. “Make love to me, Aaron. I beg you,” she pleaded. “I can’t, Des. I loved you. But I love Alex more. I can’t betray her,” he explained. “She is lucky… Aaron. She has you. Good night!” she kissed him on his lips. He refused to reply. Then, she left. I guess I really love Alex. But what about Desiree? She had been a greater part of his life, his childhood sweetheart. They used to kiss each other when they were young. At first, it was nothing. But then, when they grew older, they soon realized that it wasn’t just a kiss. It was a kiss full of compassion and love. Their parents agree on their relationship but when Desiree decided to make love with him the first time, he refused. He never wished to take advantage of her. And she got angry and punished him by leaving him behind. He was sorry for Desiree’s absence but he did the right thing. He was trying to be a gentleman. Desiree wanted him for no good reasons. She wanted his money, to make used of his body and to make him follow everything she wanted. She loved him so much that it’s no longer good. She wants to possess him. But Aaron wasn’t aware of that. He was too stupid to know that. Men were always like that… a big damn rock!

Outside the door, Desiree was smiling at herself. Now that I found you, I won’t let you go. I’ll have everything of you. Sooner! She thought. I’ll have you, Aaron. You and your money. She can’t wait. I’ll make Alex sorry for stealing you from me. She’ll pay. She will pay. She entered the room beside Aaron’s suite. “Sorry, I’m late, Mr. Taylor,” she said with a smile. “It’s okay. Here are the documents needed for the investment, Ms. Rowell,” a handsome young man replied. He is Vince Taylor, an action star. He’s one of Eric’s grandmother’s visitors. Quite handsome… but Desiree just wanted his body unlike Aaron. She’s so in love with Aaron and if she can’t have his body, she’ll find another one to replace it for a short time. She has many targets. Thrice a day, she can make love to handsome men. It had become a challenge to her. As long as she didn’t possess Aaron’s body, she won’t stop. She wants pleasure.

“Let’s not talk about business for now, Mr. Taylor,” she said. She drew herself closer to him. And when she was that too close, she kissed him gently. And there was a quick response on him. His hands were exploring her body. A while later, they were both naked lying on the bed making crazy positions and sounds. “Be gentle, Vince,” she whispered. “I will. I promise,” he replied. The pleasure that men bring to Desiree wasn’t enough until she have someone as good as his cousin, Eric. And the perfect match for him was Aaron. And she wanted him badly. Even a handsome actor doesn’t fit her. All the men that had a sexual affair with her were the same… but she knew all along, Aaron was different. And because of that, she envied Alex a lot. Oh! That Katherine Alessandra Laurence! I’ll make her pay for stealing the only man I’ve got.

Alex was sleeping solemnly in her bed. The connecting door opened slightly and Eric peek on the lady he was hugging an hour ago. When he noticed that she was fast asleep, he went inside carefully. His every step was quite silent. He made sure he didn’t make any noise. He didn’t wish to wake up the sleeping princess. He carefully sat on her bedroom and stared at her face. “She was an angel,” he thought. I wanted you, Alex. Since back those times… I guess I was so stupid to tell you that until now. And I was a fool that I can’t admit to myself way back then that I am in love with my best friend. I really am… But if I ever confess you what I feel, I know it’s too late. I love you but I can’t have you. He felt a sudden sorrow inside him. I could have been the happiest man but the woman I love doesn’t belong to me. Not anymore. He can’t stand the thought of losing her. He stand up and was about to leave when someone hold his shirt. “Eric… Eric…” Alex was calling his name. He looked at her. She is still asleep. She was dreaming and in her dream, he was there. “Don’t… leave… me…” He sat down beside her. He can’t take off his eyes on her. She was so beautiful. But it’s not the beauty that makes him stay with her. It’s the thought that only in her sleeps, he could have her. When she awakens, everything is back to normal again. He holds her hands and draws his face closer to her ears. “I won’t leave you. I promise,” he whispered gently. “Good night. Sleep tight, my angel,” he continued. He holds her cheeks. He wants to kiss her but he can’t. He stood up and went to the connection door silently. He took one last look on her face and smiled. He is lucky to have you. And he entered the room that connects to the door.

Early the next morning, Alex woke up. She had a relaxing sleep. She felt alive again. After taking a bath, she put on one of the clothes Eric gave him. She chose the white one. Looking at the mirror… she remembered those words Eric had told her. I guess I am a lady… an ugly one. There’s no way I could beat the beauty of Aaron’s childhood sweetheart. I’m too ugly. But I’m cute, though. She giggled. She glanced at the connection door. I wander what’s inside there. Suddenly, there was a thought of wanting to enter inside. Her curiosity makes her do something naughty. I shouldn’t but there’s nothing wrong about it, right? He never told me not to enter that room. I am…

She opened the door. And take a look inside it. It was a large room, and the color motif was masculine. Fits him. A picture of her and Eric caught her attention. A minute later, she was inside of the room staring at the picture. Eric was carrying her on his back. They were so happy, she thought. And then there was another picture of him and her together. Then, she realized that every picture in there includes only him and her together. He missed me that much?! It’s flattering me. She walked and took a close look at every picture examining every detail and remembering all the memories they have together. There were so many precious moments… and it ended up with no such happy ending.

“Good morning!” A voice surprised her. She looked back and there was Eric, almost naked if he didn’t cover his body with a towel. She turned around, closed her eyes and covered her face. “Eric, give yourself a little privacy, will you?” she shouted. “I am, Ms. Laurence. You trespassed inside. It’s not my fault for you to see me like this,” he explained. “Eric! You never changed! How many times did I told you not to show your stuff with women?” “Twenty times, I guessed,” he joked. “I better leave!” she exclaimed. She rushed to the connection door but when she was about to open the door, she paused for a while. “Good morning,” she said without looking and hurriedly opened the door and left him behind. He looked at the close door and laughed. I haven’t done that for four years, he thought.

That was a close shot! Alex murmured. The last time he did that to me, they were in college. And when I told that line to him, he’ll answer me with “Are you?” but now, he replied differently. She went to the door and opened it. She was locking her door now. Then, she noticed the guy next door her room. It was Eric, of course. He was also locking his room. “Sorry for that,” he turned a look at her and smiled. “Don’t say sorry if you’ll repeat it all over again,” she replied without taking a glance at him. “Promise! I won’t!” he exclaimed. When the door was finally locked, Alex walked away to the pathway. Eric followed her. “Wait up, best!” he said. He holds her left arm trying to stop her from walking. “You’re going the wrong way,” Eric explained. “I’m not. This is the right way, Sir. I’m not yet old, you know,” she answered. “I thought you might want to see the rest of the arrangements,” Eric continued. “Oh! I’m sorry. I misunderstood you,” she apologized. “You always do that but you always asked sorry… That’s quite unfair for me, don’t you think, best? You better pay me back with something worthy that I may forgive you,” he replied.

“You’re already rich. You still want money? I thought you’d stop that monkey business you used to do,” I exclaimed. “My monkey business is still going on, Alex. But now, it’s different. It’s no longer money I want to have…” he said with a smile but his eyes were seriously looking at her. It’s you who I want. He holds her hands, knelt down, and gently kissed those hands. “You’re paid,” he said carelessly. She quickly took her hands from his. And held his shirt and pushed him through the wall. “What do you intend to do, young man? You’re insulting me early this morning! I don’t want you playing any tricks on me. You understand?” she blurted out. “I maybe looked like a lady but I’m still the same Alex you knew all along. And I’ll gonna kick your ass if you embarrass me again. Is that clear?” she shouted angrily. “Crystal clear.” That was the reply. Her temper suddenly disappeared and her hands released him.

Then a while later, Eric holds her shoulders and placed her on the wall. The very same position she did to him was happening to her. “Now, Ms. Laurence, you listen! I am not insulting you this morning and I have no intention to do that. And for your information, I am not playing tricks on you. I maybe looked like a young handsome man but I’m still the same Eric you knew all along. And I’ll gonna kiss you if you keep asking stupid questions you already knew the answers. Is that clear?” he exclaimed. He was soft-spoken but still, she can sense how serious he was. “Not quite,” she teased. “Eric, I’m glad you didn’t change a bit. You’re still naughty and boastful,” she added. She was giggling. Eric smiled at her but he didn’t release her. “But it wasn’t really funny, Eric. You’re confusing me with your gestures. And I can’t keep controlling myself to ask questions. Tell me… why do you intend to do all these things?” she asked seriously. I warned you, Eric thought. “Why?” She asked again for the last time. She didn’t forget what Eric told her but she was testing him. Let’s see, Eric. Can you do it? I guess not. I know you. You can’t kiss me. You never try it. Poor man. She gave him a curious look.

His lips pressed hers gently. She was shocked. It was the first kiss she ever received from him. The first person who touched her lips was her best friend. And she couldn’t believe it. She didn’t intend to close her eyes someone inside her ordered her to do that. And without thinking, she followed. She was afraid to see what she was doing. She just couldn’t resist him. Suddenly, she sensed that she was already replying on his lips. His gentleness… I wished I were just dreaming because in my dreams, I could do this over and over again. But in the reality, this kiss was illegal… wrong, a mistake that could lead to a big one. “Eric…” She pushed his chest away from her. “Stop! I beg you,” she continued. “I… I’m sorry,” he suddenly realized that he was kissing her for more than a minute and if she didn’t say a word, there could be more to happen. “Forget it, Eric. Forget the kiss,” she said coldly and rushed off through the pathway leaving Eric behind staring as she walked away.

What have I done? Eric thought. I guessed I scared her. I shouldn’t have. But… it’s one of the most memorable moments I could cherish way back then. I’m sorry, Alex. I could never forget that kiss. It was a kiss from the woman I love The first and only woman I was afraid to admit at first that I am in love with but now, when I can finally face the reality of being in love with her, I can’t have her. How could I forget her lips? If that is the only thing I was able to touch for so many years.

Alex was walking like a robot, unaware of her surroundings. He kissed me, he thought. What have I done? If someone saw us, Aaron will know what happened and that will destroy everything. I will end up losing Aaron. Eric was confusing me. Why is he doing this to me? Why? “Oops!” An unfamiliar voice shouted. Then, Alex found herself bumping with a man leaving the papers he was carrying flew all over. “I-I’m sorry,” she quickly apologized. She quickly picked up the pieces of papers and gave it to him. “You should be careful next time!” the man said angrily without looking at her. “I’m really sorry,” she apologized again. The man looked at her. What a beauty, he thought. “You might hurt yourself. You don’t want to destroy that face, don’t you?” he continued. “Yeah… I guess,” she answered. “By the way, I’m Vince Taylor. I’m an actor,” he introduced. “I haven’t seen you before, Sir. I’m sorry,” she answered. “Oh! It’s all right. I guess you’re not quite interested in Hollywood stars,” he teased. She looked at her wristwatch. “Oh, I’m sorry, Mr. Taylor. I must be leaving now. Adios!” she replied. It was a lie. She is not rushing for something.

She just can’t stand another man who’ll enter her life. She hurriedly walked away. The man followed her. “Wait! Señorita!” he shouted. She paused for a moment. And looked back. Vince Taylor was standing beside her. “May I know your name?” the man asked. “Katherine… I better go,” she hurriedly walked away and this time, he wasn’t following her. Thank God! She reached Aaron’s room. I’m here, she thought. She knocked on the door. The door was locked. I better go down. He might be around somewhere, she thought. She reached the lobby. Anita was waiting for her. “Ms. Laurence, you’re breakfast is ready. You’ll be joining the host, ma’am. This way,” she said. Without any questions, she followed.

Anita brought her into another large room. It was the dining room. Sitting on the host’s chair was Eric’s grandmother, Alice. She doesn’t look like turning ninety. She was way too beautiful to be compared to a ninety-year old woman. Alex can’t still believe that she’s going to celebrate her 90^th birthday. At the right side of Alice was Eric and at the side of Eric was Aaron. “Come, join us, my child,” Alice said. “I would be glad to, grandma. Happy Birthday!” she exclaimed. Alex used to call Eric’s grandmother “grandma” and the old lady treated her like her great granddaughter since way back then. She had witnessed the two children grew up to become good friends and became best of friends. She was so happy seeing them together again. But now, she felt sorry for each one of them. She knew all along that each one felt the same way for the other. But they can’t admit they were in love with each other and now might be too late.

“My child, why don’t you sit beside me?” Alice asked. Alex sat at the left side of Alice and she was now in front of the guy who kissed her a while ago. She can’t look at him directly. “Thank you, grandma. I still can’t believe that you’re ninety now. You still look young. I wish I could be as young as you look when I reached ninety, grandma. Happy Birthday!” she said happily trying to cheer everyone. “Thank you, dear. I missed your praises for years. You were the only one who adored me so much,” she replied. “Alex, you have found quite a perfect boyfriend that you deserved to have. I remember my husband when he was still alive. He was handsome and a true gentleman. I longed that one day, you’ll have that kind of man, too and now, you did. I’m so proud of you,” she continued.

“Grandma, you were learning from my praising techniques, I guess. You’re flattering Aaron,” Alex teased. Everyone laughed. “You were too lucky, dear, unlike my great grandson here. He was becoming too busy with all our business. Now, I can see him growing loveless,” she explained. “Grandma, that wasn’t very funny,” Eric joined in. “Eric, my child, I was just telling the truth. It was too unfortunate for you, dear. You were unable to find another lady that can beat up this gorgeous maiden on my left. Why can’t you admit that?” she replied. “Grandma, you’re embarrassing me again,” Eric told her. “Give me a break, dear. Today’s my birthday,” she answered. Everyone laughed again. “Oh, it’s been a while since I have a breakfast of laughter. Thanks for being with me, my child. I could be more happier if you’ll promise me that you’ll search for your true happiness, dear,” she exclaimed. “I promise, grandma.” Alex swore.

After that breakfast, Alice decided to have a little walk with Alex. “I have something not so important to tell you, my dear.” Those words from Alice kept bothering Alex’s mind over and over again until they were in the Garden Forest. One of the best tourist spots you could find in the Kruger Hills Island. The two ladies were riding horses, one was white, and the other was black. “You know, Grandma, I admire this horse. What’s her name?” I asked curiously. I was riding at the white horse. It was so beautiful like a unicorn. “Oh, her name’s Laurence. Eric named that horse, dear. It’s one of his favorites,” she explained. “Nice. He even named it after my family’s name,” I replied. I’ll kill him once I saw him. He’s doing a lot of explanation sooner.

“Grandma… I was just wandering,” I said. There was a sudden pause for a moment. “Aren’t you angry with me?” I continued asking. She gave me a surprised look on her face. “Of course, not. Why would I get angry with you, child? Have you done anything wrong?” she asked worriedly. “I don’t know, Gran. Something’s bothering me…” I paused a moment and carefully search the right words to say for her to understand. “Eric is confusing me since we arrived here, Gran. He’s… he’s doing weird things that quite puzzled me. He’s acting so weird, Gran. I don’t know what he’s up to,” I blurted out. “This morning… just this morning, we had an argument. Suddenly… I…” she paused. And this time her voice was low and soft. “I found myself kissing him, Gran. Oh! I know it’s wrong. Aaron will kill me if he learned about that kiss,” I exclaimed.

“Did you love your first kiss, child?” she asked. “Pardon?” I asked surprisingly. “I am asking if you love your first kiss. Did you?” She was smiling at me and her face was waiting for my answer. “Well, honestly speaking… the kiss was shocking. I don’t know what to do. I let him kissed me. And that makes me feel guilty, Gran,” I answered. “What did you feel while kissing him? Is it great?” she asked again. I giggled a bit. “Gran, you were becoming impish. Keep me a secret… well, I felt nervous at first. It was so terrific. Suddenly, I could sense my lips replying on to his. I swear I never want that to happen. It was… softly touched and I can’t resist it,” I confessed her.

“Child, do you love Aaron?” she changed the topic. “I don’t know… maybe. Of course, Gran. I’ll be marrying him. I should love him,” I replied. “Was that the right answer, Gran?” I added. “Come…” A while later, we were crossing a bridge. “My dear, look at yourself in the crystal clear water. Are you happy?” she asked. “Of course, Gran. I am…” I answered. “Look into my eyes, Alex. Are you happy?” she asked again. “I… I guess I’m not,” I answered sadly. Slowly, tears began to fall down in my eyes. She opened her arms and automatically, I hugged her and cried on her shoulder. “Am I doing a big mistake, Gran?” I asked. “No, child… if you wish to stop fooling yourself, you’re not yet making a big mistake,” she answered softly.

“I’m afraid to leave Aaron… and I am more scared to know that Eric didn’t love me…”

“Believe me, child. He loves you. You must be the first person to know that because he’s your best friend.”

“I guess I’m all blind by my fear now, Grandma. I… I’m afraid to love someone who doesn’t love me… Aaron loves me. Eric loves me as a friend. I’m scared, Gran. Really scared.”

“Child, you worry too much. It seems you’re the one turning ninety here,” she joked. I returned her with a girlish giggle. “If you’re happy, I’ll be happy for you, dear. Just please be happy, okay?” She looked at me seriously. Her eyes were gentle and beautiful. She never changed. “I will, Gran. I promise.” Things never change to her. Through the years, she’s been one great lady I had always admired. And every word of advice that came in her mouth serves as a guide to every decision I make. But now, she’s telling me to be happy and those words had bothered me since the night of celebration came.

There were a thousand of visitors in the island. People dressed in nightgowns and formal attires coming from distant places. People that had became a part of Alice’s life. They all gathered to one very special night of Alice Andrews. Alice, seeing her great grandson watched his best friend danced with the man who took her away from him, broke her heart into pieces. He was drinking a little champagne while entertaining the visitors with his sweet smiles but she could see him glanced at the two dancing lovers. And she could sense his loneliness. My great grandson was such a fool to let go of her. She thought.

“Frederick, my dear…” she called up rushing towards him. He looked back at her with a smile. “Gran, happy birthday! Do you love the arrangements?” he quickly asked. “I’m very much pleased, son. I really love it,” she answered. She hugs him. “I’m proud of you, dear,” she whispered. “Thanks, Gran,” he replied with a whisper. Eric watched the two dancing lovers again while drinking his champagne with a mortifying look on his face. Alice quickly noticed it. She patted his shoulder. “Why don’t you ask her for a dance, dear? I would be very happy to see the both of you dancing together again,” she requested. Eric gave a surprised look on her. “Remember, I haven’t received a great present from you, child,” she added without looking at him. He smiled.

Then a while later, he was in front of Alex and Aaron who had paused for a moment in the dance floor when they noticed him come in. “You’re dancing alone?” Aaron teased. “No… I was just wandering why you can’t take your shoes off the floor, sir,” he replied naughtily. “It’s fun dancing with a fair lady, see? Why don’t you try it?” Aaron suggested. “I can’t find anyone as fair as your lady, pal,” he answered glancing quickly at Alex. “Why don’t you change partners?” Desiree suddenly joined in. “Aaron, shall we?” she asked while offering her hand. “Shall I, dear?” He looked back at Alex asking her permission before doing any move as if she were his mother. “You should,” she replied with a smile making him breathe once again. And he holds Desiree’s hand and dances with her nervously.

Alex was about to return on her seat after staring at her fiancé and her best friend’s cousin dance together, when Eric hold her right hand tightly but in a gentle manner. She looked back at him and stared him directly to his eyes. His face was confusion and he could barely speak out the words. “Sh-shall we?” he asked, offering his hand to hers. She smiled. “It… it would be my pleasure,” she replied laying her hands on his. And he led her at the middle of the dance floor placing her hands on his shoulders and his hands on her waist.

There was silence between them. Their bodies were swaying and dancing with the flow of the mellow music in the dance floor. Their eyes were attracted to each other as if there is a magnet between them that they can’t take off their eyes staring at one another. There was a moment of excitement. “I’m really sorry about what happened this morning,” he said stopping the tick of silence between them. You never say sorry for kissing the person you loved, Alex thought. You don’t need to say sorry for kissing me, she added in her mind. Unconsciously, she blurted out those words in front of her best friend and this gave her a sudden alarm as she noticed Eric’s face turned into shock.

“Did I said something wrong?” she quickly asked. “Ah… No, not at all,” he replied at her with a boyish smile. She knew he heard it but she’s afraid to ask. Again, there was a moment of silence between them but this time, Alex can’t look at him directly. Did he really hear it? She cogitated. If he did, he’ll come to a conclusion that I love that kiss and that I’m allowing him to kiss me again because I like the kiss. Am I right? No… this is wrong. I can’t possibly fall for him… You’re a fool, Alex. You really are! She said to herself deep in her mind.

“What’s bothering you, best?” Eric asked. He noticed the confusion in her face. She might be thinking what she had said to me, he thought. You never say sorry for kissing the person you loved. What could that mean then? Did she know all along that I loved her? “N-nothing, Eric,” she replied after regaining her consciousness from the confusing questions floating in her mind.

“Do you remember our JS Prom?” he asked suddenly. She nodded. “You were my first dance that time,” he said in a whisper. “Am I?” she asked surprisingly. “Of course you are. You were my partner in cotillion dance during third year and my partner in rig Odon during fourth year high, remember?” He reminded. “Now, I remember! But I’m not your first dance, Eric. Do you remember our first JS Prom? A lot of our girl schoolmates ask you for a dance and most of them are way too beautiful enough to be ignored,” she said. “And did I danced with them?” he asked making her stop reminding him of the event. “Of course you did. As far as I remember, you danced with Faye, Aubrey, Natalie, Dianne, Gem…”

“You still remember that?” he suddenly asked. “I was there and I was watching you. I was counting all the ladies you danced with, my dear best friend,” she exclaimed. “Really? How come you forgot who my first dance is?” he answered. “Your first dance? I guess it was Faye… or maybe Trisha,” she said. “It’s you!” he informed. “Me? No way! I can’t remember you dancing with me… You never danced with me except for dance presentations. Did you?” she asked. Eric wet his lips then suddenly speaks with that soft gentle voice he has.

“You were my first dance, Alex. I can never forget that. And I won’t,” he said. “Yeah, it’s true I danced with those girls you were talking about but before them, I had danced with you. I saw you that time,” he continued. “You were watching all the people in the dance floor dancing with that mellow love song. You asked me to get you a glass of fruit punch, remember? I followed. And when I was waiting for my turn, I saw you sitting on that chair watching your beloved Aaron danced with the girls you said was asking me for a dance. He’s the Number One Ideal Boyfriend that time. Have you forgotten? So it’s possible that girls lined up for a dance with him,” he narrated. “What’s the big idea about it?” Alex asked in an insulting manner.

“Well, Alex, when I returned from my seat and I was handling you the fruit punch, I was smiling at you naughtily. I can’t stop giggling that time. You were staring at your crush that never asked you for a dance. Poor girl! And I began teasing you remember? I asked you…” he told. “If I were a good dancer, why can’t I dance up there? And I answered you that I’m not crazy to dance alone… and you danced with me!” she said remembering every detail on the event. “I can’t believe that you are my first dance, Eric!” she exclaimed. “You must, Alex,” he replied. And after that conversation while dancing, both of them forgot about those confusing words and actions that happened before that. Everything seems back to normal once again!

MOA - Chapter 1

Chapter 1

There was a grand celebration for my best friend’s grandmother’s 90^th birthday and we were all invited. It’s not just a birthday party but also a reunion of our troupe. I haven’t met Eric since a year after my 18^th birthday and I missed my best friend badly. Although we keep in touch through phone calls and text messages, seeing each other is still different. For fifteen years, Eric and I were best of friends and had founded a circle of true friends we called “Uni”… unity, union, and uniqueness. We used to do fun stuffs together with our other friends. But from all of them, Eric was different. He was more of a friend; he’s like my brother, my companion. He’s my closest and best friend and I never hesitate to open up every secret I had to him. In my teenage days, we usually get out together, only the two of us, and we were usually teased by our group. My parents trusted Eric so much for taking good care of me and they were lonelier than ever when he left Aubrey Homes.

Now, I was given the opportunity to see him again… my best friend. Still, I felt a little bit nervous to see him and for him to see me with my boyfriend. Well, since our high school years, Eric already knew who my present boyfriend was. It was Aaron, my old-time playmate who I never talked to since Grade Four and now, I still can’t believe that he is my boyfriend. I liked Aaron for seven years but he never courted me. On my 18^th birthday, I invited him to be one of my 18 roses. And then after that, things started to join with the flow. I had told this to Eric through a phone call. He just laughed and teased me. It seemed okay for him. But inside me, I felt a little guilt. Somehow, I knew I loved Eric more than a best friend, but I still can’t accept the fact that I am in love with him.

I can never forget the day he told me that he’s going to confess something really important to me and I was a damned fool to believe that he’s going to say he really loves me more than a best friend. I still remember that day, that painful memory. He told me to meet him at the park of Aubrey Homes. I waited there for two hours. When I was about to leave, he came. I was angry with him that time but I was able to forget it when I saw his angelic face. He was so cute and more so ever, he was so admirable. He held my hands so close and was about to say those words. “Alex, I’ll be courting…” And I can’t wait to hear the next words I had waited for so long. “I’ll be courting Faye. Would you be my bridge?” I was able to say yes but deep inside my heart and soul, those words had struck my heart and I was breathless.

Few weeks later, Eric wasn’t going out with me at all but with Faye, of course. Eric was truly madly deeply in-love with her and I felt jealous. I wanted to destroy her in front of him but I can’t. Then, one lucky day for me had come. Eric and I were having a surprise visit to Faye’s house. She told him she was sick for a week and he missed her so much. The gate was open so we enter. The door was also open. As we were entering the two-story house furnished with different antiques, we heard Faye’s voice saying, “I love it, darling… I really do!” We peek at the room where the voice came from. The door was slightly open. And we were shocked about what we saw. Faye was having sex with our swimming instructor.

After that, Eric never tried to court any girls he admired again. He’ll never court me. I actually looked like a tomboy to him. I usually wear large t-shirts and pajamas at home. I never wear a skirt at the church. I prefer pants than skirts. At school, I looked like a nice lady. Obviously, some guys were attracted at me but not Eric. He knew everything about me and maybe he was turned off towards my attitude. He tried to change me. It was a success but after that, he left me. And Aaron took over. I felt sorry for Eric so I promised to myself that on the day we meet again, he’d see the new me who he tried to improve for years. He’ll be very proud of me because for his three years absence, I had improved myself better and now, I’m a lady. Thanks to him. I’ll be telling that when I reached the Kruger Hills Mansion.

We took a plane to reach the island. It was a beauty. It is more of a paradise. And at the center was a mansion that looks more like a palace. Eric’s family was really wealthy. Millionaires, I guess. The troupe was almost complete. There was Lizy, the fashion trender, Aimee, the bookworm, Dexter, the class president, Arnold, the athlete, and me, of course, the jester of the troop. The last one of us is already waiting at the mansion. He was the rich guy, the Ideal Boyfriend of the campus but never have one. Lucky for Faye… Eric had courted her. Unlucky for me.

“Alex, wake up, dear,” Aaron, whispered at my ear gently. He was so soft-spoken. I had slept for two hours and my eyes were a little bit tired with that five hours trip. I slowly opened my sleeping eyes. And I smiled to the handsome guy right beside me who was holding my hands. “Is the plane landing soon?” I asked. “Yes. I can’t wait to see Eric. Second to me, he was the Ideal Boyfriend of our high school years. Remember? I wonder what he looks like now. And I wander why he doesn’t have any girlfriend until now,” he exclaimed. Me too. And I can’t wait more than you feel.

We rode at a Mercedes Benz owned by Eric’s grandmother. We reached the gate of the mansion. The garden was wide and beautiful. There were stables of horses. Everything looks like a paradise. “Mom, is this heaven?” Kazy asked. She was Lizy’s second daughter and my goddaughter. Lizy was married to an engineer. Her husband, Kelly, was with us, too. Kelly Andrews was Eric’s second cousin and Aaron’s best friend. “No, honey. This was your uncle’s paradise,” Kelly said.

An hour later, the Mercedes Benz was stopping in front of the mansion. There was a sudden fear inside me. Suddenly, I felt I’m scared to see Eric. I’m scared to see him. We entered the mansion. The floor was made of beautiful marbles. And it looks more like a hotel. A lady walked towards us with a smile. She was wearing a maid’s uniform. “Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Sir Frederick Andrews will be coming after a minute to welcome all of you. Especially you, Ms. Katherine Laurence,” she informed. “Thank you,” I replied.

“It’s been a while since I heard someone addressed you with that name, dear,” Aaron teased. Funny! Very funny, Eric. Wait till you see.

“Uni Friends!!! It’s been a long time!” a familiar voice shouted. I suddenly looked back… and there I saw a very familiar face dressed in white that looks more handsome than ever coming towards us. My face doesn’t know what to express. “Eric, boy, you didn’t change a bit,” Arnold exclaimed. While everyone welcomed him with such praises, I was just standing there staring at him unable to say anything. I was so surprised… and I can’t believe he’s there. My best friend is just in front of me. “Ms. Katherine Alessandra Laurence, how’s my dearest best friend?” he asked with that boyish smile I missed for years. “Fine, I thanked you, Sir Frederick William Andrews,” I replied. We both laughed and hugged each other as if we were sweethearts and I suddenly forgot the people that surround us. “I missed you, pal. I missed you so much!” he whispered. I smiled. And I felt a satisfaction in my heart. There was no malice in what we were doing, but then I quickly pushed Eric away.

“Oh, Eric, you sure do look great with that suit. Well, nothing has changed in me. Except for the fact that I have my dear boyfriend with me. Right, dear?” Aaron came over and held my right hand. “Eric, I guess now I’m the second of having the title of the Ideal Boyfriend of the campus. I wander why you’re still single,” Aaron said looking at Eric seriously. “No, no… actually, you still have that title, pal. As you can see, you have one beautiful lady with you. I have nothing,” he replied humbly. We laughed. “You never change, my friend. You never run out of sweet jokes for your girl but, Eric, I am not you’re girl. I can never be,” I joked. “Oh, Kate! How I wish you were!” he replied. How I wish I were…

From the stairways, a beautiful lady dressed in a long v-shaped black gown came down. She has a long black hair up to her waist, with red lips and gray eyes, good features to be defined as a beautiful lady. Everyone has caught her attention and a minute later, she was in front of us joining the conversation. “May I introduced to you my cousin…” Eric began to introduce. “Desiree?” Aaron asked as he was staring at the beautiful maiden. “A- Aaron? Is that you?” she asked. “You know each other?” Both of us wandered. “Y-yes…” they replied. And we laughed. What a coincidence! We’re talking on duets. “It’s been a long time,” she continued. She was absolutely hypnotizing my boyfriend with that v-shaped black dress. “Desiree, I would like you to meet my fiancée, Alex. Alex, this is Desiree, my childhood sweetheart,” he explained. “I thought you’ll never mentioned that to her, Aaron. You see, Alex, Aaron’s parents wanted me to be his girlfriend since grade school. But we need to separate. I had so many things to do. I thought Aaron could never live without me… for I guess twelve years, but now, here he is looking handsome than ever. Thank God he found you,” she explained. Yeah right! She’s simply boastful. I really don’t like her. That is for sure. Someone saved me! “No, Desiree, thank God I found him. Right, dear?” I replied as if I were cool enough not to show my jealousy over her.

“Well, I guess, you guys were tired. Why don’t you take a rest? Tomorrow’s night will be the big night and I don’t want you guys feeling sleepy already. I had prepared a dozen suites here for all of you. Anita will accompany you to your rooms,” Eric explained. “If you’ll excuse us, we’ve got so many things to arrange here. See you later all!” he continued. Anita, the maid, accompanied each one of us in our rooms. Each room was truly a satisfaction. Aaron kissed good night to me and entered his suite. Then, Anita & I were left behind through the pathway. The girl doesn’t look like a maid at all. She looks like a hotel attendant to me. I glanced at her one at a time studying her uniform. A maid wearing a hotel attendant uniform… now, that’s what you call rich. Anita stopped suddenly. “Excuse me, miss. Why do we stop? Is there something wrong?” I asked curiously. “No, ma’am. We were in front of your suite now. I’m sorry for the inconvenience. Sir Frederick suggested to make you the last person I’ll accompany,” she replied. She gets her key chain and unlocks the door with a golden key. “Come in, my lady,” she said.

The room… was AWESOME! It has my taste. The color, the curtains, the furniture and everything… I love it! “Sir Frederick Andrews arranged this just for you, ma’am. He had also selected a variety of clothes arranged in your closet. What can you say, ma’am?” I was speechless. What can I say? I never thought Eric is this gallant. He used to tease me and treated me like a boy. But now, everything seems to be different. I guess everything did changed.

“I… well, I wanted to talk to him. Now…” I carefully released the words. I wanted to talk to him seeing him face-to-face. Isn’t that a brave thing to do? Alex, I am proud of you. “If you’ll be delighted, ma’am,” she smiled. She quickly knocked the door in the wall. I never thought what that door is for. The comfort room is near the bedroom. What could that door be? Anita entered. A minute later, she walked towards me with a smile and she was carrying a red rose tied with a pink ribbon. “For you, ma’am,” she said as she handled to me the rose. “Gracias!” I exclaimed. “Anita, what is that door for?” I asked suspiciously. “Oh, I forgot to say. Well, you see, ma’am… Sir Frederick wanted your suite beside his room. And that door is your connection door,” she explained. “What?!” He’s still naughty. Eric never changed. He did play a trick on me. My room was far from my boyfriend’s room and yet so near with my best friend’s room. What is his purpose for doing that? “I wanted to see him right now!” I shouted. “I-I will. I’m sorry. I’ll be calling him right now…” she said in a frightened manner. I must have raised my voice too high. The connection door suddenly opened.

A familiar guy entered my room. “No need, Anita. I’m here. You could go now,” he said. The maid left immediately like a frightened cat. I stared at him with no such expression. And then, having the thought of our rooms was connected, my eyebrows begun to meet. “Why do you intend to do that, young man?” I asked suspiciously. He smiled. A simple boyish smile that had made me forgot my anger. He came nearer to me and put his hands on my shoulders. “I missed you, Alex. I missed my best friend. Didn’t you missed me?” he asked. “O-of course I did but… Eric, this is too much. You don’t need to put my suite beside yours. There’s malice in this. And I’m sure it could cause a lot of intrigues and troubles,” I explained. He lied on my bed. “Oh, c’mon, Kate. We used to do this when we were young. We usually sleep together, don’t you remember? Even in our high school life, we sleep in one bed. And there is no malice about that because we’re best friends. At least now, there’s only a connecting door in our rooms… instead of-”

“Eric, you don’t understand. I already have a boyfriend. And it could be malicious if we had a connecting door in our rooms. What would people think of us? We’re not young anymore. Everything has changed, Eric. Everything!” I interrupted. My voice was a little bit higher. There was a sudden silence inside the room. He stood up with his head bowed. “I guess you’re right, Alex,” he lifted his face with a serious look on his face. “Everything did changed. Just looking at you, I felt there’s no way I could return the past. You’re completely different. My three years absence and his three years presence had made you a lady. I thought you’d become a better person if I leave you behind. You did. It was truly a success. You’re perfectly beautiful. A beautiful young lady,” he said. He came closer to me. I wasn’t able to move. I guess I won’t move. I want to hear what he’ll say. I want to see what he’ll show. I want to feel what he’ll do. He held my cheeks gently with his hands. “Aaron was so lucky to have you, my dear best friend. I never had the intention to take you away from him. You loved him, right?”

“He’s my fiancé, Eric. Of course, I love him,” I replied. He smiled. “I know. But I love you, too, best. More so ever, I only have one week to be with you unlike Aaron. I totally missed my old time partner and I thought you’d be happy to have a week with your best friend. If ever I wished to see you, there’s the connecting door ready for me to do that. Again, I’m sorry, Alex. I’ll prepare another suite for you that it won’t” he was continuing what he was saying while suddenly I interrupted again. “No, you don’t need to do that, Eric. I understand. You don’t need to act like a poor man. It doesn’t fit you, Sir!” I teased and lifted a naughty smile on my face. He hugged me. “You’re still naughty, Alex.” “Yeah, right. But you’re trickier than I do. I guessed I missed my best friend so much and was just afraid to show it. I… I’m sorry.” I hugged him tightly. “Alex… I forgot to inform you that no one knew that there is a connecting door in our rooms except Anita and I. Would you keep it a secret, darling?” he asked naughtily. “Sure… just please don’t call me your darling. I maybe look like a lady but I can still knock your head off, Eric,” I replied.

Memories of Angels (MOA) - Prologue

Je t'aime, même si cela me prend une vie entière pour vous attendent pour réaliser cela.

During my high school days, I found this one good story about romance and (well…) heartaches. It’s entitled Memories of Angels, a story of love and friendship, of how hard it is to see that one person you love so much is being taken away from you (and the sad part is — you can’t do anything about it). I posted it in my blog — just want to share it with you so that maybe, you’ll feel that love should never be taken for granted.

Memories of Angels

If love is blind, it’s because the lover chooses to be blind. And when love is gone, memories will still remain in our hearts.

Alex and Eric were best friends since birth…

And they were so in love with each other…

But forgot to say their feelings…

That it had been almost too late to admit it…

Years passed by, Alex and Eric parted ways…

Without even knowing each others’ feelings…

And then they met once again…

With different lives…

More complicated ones…

Will they ever be lovers?

Or remain as friends?

If love is still there, can lovers find a way?