MORENA-Chapter20

“Where’s Ninong Ryan’s hug?” Ryan asked Celine who was sitting on the couch in unpleasant expression.

“I’m sorry Ninong. I am just sad” Far from her usual cheerful character, the 5-year-old child lazily pulled herself from the seat to kiss and hug her Ninong Ryan.

Ryan smiled. He loves to be called Ninong. It is special; he is given the right to be the second father of this cute little princess.

He sat the little girl on his lap. “Why?” He maybe funny most of the time but he was seriously touched by this little child’s sadness.

 “I am upset Ninong.” She pouted her lips. “I hate this skin.” 

“Why?”

“People in school call me names I don’t like.”

“Because of your dark skin?” He asked and Celine nodded. “Call you what?” He pushed.

“I hate to mention any of it. I will not go to school anymore”

Cedric and Dylan are in their restaurant when he arrived. The couple settled in the Philippines. They just opened their restaurant few months ago. Ryan was told about Celine. The couple was planning to transfer their child to another school if the bullies won’t stop. 

He’s not good in words but he’ll try.

 

“I think I should tell you the story of D…evon.”  The name just popped up.

“What about her?”

“You will love her. Are you ready to listen?”

Celine nodded. He sat the child on the couch and started his story.

Once upon a time there lived a poor couple who had four daughters. All of their children were dark skinned. The first was called Divina, the second named Daena, third was Devorah and the forth was Devon. They all possessed attractive faces but in the city where everyone were white, they were called ugly. People mocked them because they are different. But because good parents raised them, all grew up kind-hearted and fun loving individuals.

Years passed by, and a dreadful fiery dragon who came from far away land reached their city.  All the city dwellers were scared. Afraid to lose their lives, they talked to the dragon. They told the dragon that he could have their golds and a girl each time he visits.

The dragon agreed.  All the people in the city thought of one thing. The dark skinned girls first before their daughters. The poor couple disagreed but they could do nothing against the people. Divina offered first, and then Daena, and the latest was Deborah.

In three days, Devon would be next. The couple did their best to run away from the city but they did not succeed.

Devon was standing under a tree and waiting for the dragon when she heard someone coming.  A prince who came from a faraway castle saw her bathed in tears and trembling from head to toe.

“Go away before the monster sees you” She told him.

“Never will I forsake a lady as lovely you” The prince replied.

 Devon was stunned. It was the first time she heard that. Never did she imagine a handsome prince could utter gently words for a dark skinned girl like her.

When they heard the flap of the dragon’s wings, the prince hid himself in a big nearby rock.

The dragon was about to eat the frightened Devon when the prince lance down the dragon’s back , and the monster was rolling dead on the grass.

There where shouts of joy through the city when the prince came riding with Devon sitting beside him, dragging the monster by a rope.

Mothers and their daughters were envious when the prince took Devon and her family to their palace. They could not believe that a dark skinned girl they mocked would soon be married to a handsome young prince.

“Don’t be upset ‘cause you’ll soon be like Devon. You’ll find your prince.” Ryan told the child after.

“I’m not upset anymore. I love your story Ninong.” Celine was smiling.  

-----------

 “If I were you, I am going to back out as early as now.” Brannon repeated for the seventh time.      

“I know Leslie so well; you will just end up her slave.” Ryan was looking so serious, seemed so concern with Ian. “Believe me! I experienced that. I carried her heavy bags; I gave her expensive gifts… It’s was horrible! She’s my ex, you know…”  

“Ryan stop dreaming please!” Cedric yelled at his friend. “But…Yeah! Girls are like that. Since I married I learned to wash clothes, I also cook everyday…” He seconded.

Ian was listening as he was grinning so big.  “It’s final guys, Leslie and I are getting married.” Now he knows how it feels to love someone who has dedicated guards.

Ian was so surprised to see the three this morning. He was still dozing when he answered the gate.

“Are you sure? Do you know that Leslie is a terrible cook?”  Brannon inquired again while busily inspecting his deck of DVD’s. No porns!  

“That’s not a problem, she promised me she’ll enroll in a cooking class” Ian was confident. He was standing beside Cedric who was checking his bookshelf. No porn mags!     

“Whoa! And you believed that?” Cedric turned to him with his wide eyes.

“Of… course!” Ian answered.  Since he opened his door, these guys didn’t stop questioning.    

“Have you seen her face without make-up?” Ryan shouted while peeking from the bathroom’s door. He was holding Ian’s medicine kit. No prohibited drugs!

“Yes! And she’s still pretty” Ian doesn’t know how to react.  Three people are invading his place but he could do nothing.   

“She’s a brat. Believe me.” Cedric stated as he entered Ian’s room.    

Ian followed Cedric. “Yeah! I know that. I can deal with it” God! Can I punch my future brother in law just once?!  

 

“Really?” Cedric asked. He scanned his room. “Nice room. Clean…very clean!” Cedric commented smirking. 

And what’s the problem if my room is clean?! Ian wanted to shout in frustration but he smiled instead. “Yeah!”         

Ian and Leslie accidentally met in Germany.  Ian was there for a vacation and Leslie was for work. Ian who was broken hearted then, was set to travel Europe before settling in Seattle.  

When Cedric heard that Ian is in the country, he and his stooges planned to talk to Ian. They wanted to make sure that Ian really loves Leslie, Cedric especially. It is best to talk to him without Leslie around.    

-----------

“Leslie and Ian are great couple. Surely, they will make beautiful babies“Dylan was still so engrossed about the wedding plans of the two.  Leslie just called. His sister would be in the country in 2 days. “Anyways!  You went to Ian right? What did you talked about?”

“A lot.” Cedric was grinning.

“Like what?” She asked while combing her hair.

Cedric opened their cabinet to change his clothes. “Boys thing!” The closet door hid his naughty smile.    

  

“Okay!” Dylan simply answered and then turned on the TV.  “Babe, Frances told me that Alex has a commercial, a baby milk. I want to see it” She sat on their bed, rested her back at the headboard.

Suddenly, a whitening pill flashed on the TV screen.

“I want to try that.” Dylan stated unconsciously. It was not so loud but it seemed like her husband’s eardrum bust.   

Cedric was wearing an unpleasant expression. “Don’t you dare!”     

“Konting fair lang…” Dylan said in soft and weak voice, gauging her husband’s mood.  

“Do not get even fair. Leave it.” He said firmly.

“I just wanted to see how I will look if I have that snow white’s skin.

“Dark skin is the best!” He said curtly.

“I am sure. I’ll look better if my skin gets whiter,”

“Dark skin is the best!” He repeated in finality.

“Are you mad at me? Are we fighting?” Dylan asked her husband and then she turned off the TV.

Cedric went to her and embraced Dylan. “Just trying to say that you don’t need it” His voice was apologetic.  ‘Cause girl you’re amazing just the way you are…! He sang the line and kissed her forehead.

Celine entered into the open door of her parent’s bedroom all of a sudden. “Mom, Dad, I want to sleep here tonight”

Cedric removed his tight hold on her. “Why? I thought you want a baby brother?  Mom and I can’t give you that if you sleep here” Cedric walked towards his daughter.

Dylan gave a warning look to her husband.

“Baby, what I mean is, you should sleep in your own room. That is something a child your age needed to learn.” He lovingly pinched his daughter’s cheeks. 

“Dad, I’m sad. Ninong Ryan said he can’t come on my birthday.” Celine’s 6^th birthday will be in 2 weeks. Ryan took his flight back to Australia this afternoon after invading Ian’s house.

Dylan went to Celine. “Don’t worry baby. Ninong Brannon and Ninang Frances will be there.” She said kissing Celine on the head.

“Of course I also want Ninong Ryan”

“Don’t worry baby we’ll go to Australia soon. You’ll see Ninong Ryan again and Grandpa.” Cedric assured the child.

“Really? Okay!” Celine kisses her parents and excitedly fly from the room.   

“Babe, can we go to sleep now?” Cedric asked his wife as he closed the door.

Dylan now faces her table. “I have so many things to do. You could turn off the lights, I’ll just use the desk lamp” Dylan is a part time architect.

“Babe, Celine wants a baby brother…” Cedric told his wife smiling naughtily.

Dylan pays no heed. She’s busy.

“Celine needs a baby brother. Alex might grow up like his dad.  You know so well that I’ve suffered enough with Brannon…” Cedric was sticking to his argument and justifying his reason.

What he said was insubstantial to his wife. “Dear husband, Don’t use the innocent 6-year-old boy for your sake.”

Cedric did not talk. He pulled their blanket roughly.

“Cedric, I need to work.” Dylan voluntarily explained

Her husband didn’t answer.

“Frances volunteered to help me with Celine’s party. If you have suggestions, just tell me ok?” Dylan continued talking as she drew. 

Cedric remained quiet.     

Dylan looked at her husband. He was lying in their bed, his back facing her. She faced her desk again and she heard him murmuring something.  However, she continued her sketch.

Few minutes passed. She glanced once more at her husband. This time Cedric was sitting on their bed, his foot were tapping the floor. He was frowning.

She wanted to throw the T-square at him but she just sighed and surrendered. “Okay!  I’ll just finish this tomorrow morning”

Cedric abruptly turned to his wife. Gladness glittered in his eyes. He was right. Dylan would not disappointment him. He just needs a little drama.

He gladly but slowly walked to the switch.  

When we turn out the lights
The two of us, alone together
Somethin' just not right
But, girl, you know that I would never ever let
Another's touch, come between the two of us
'Cause no one else will ever take your place

In the darkness, He was singing.  Cedric walked at a snail's pace towards his wife.

No one else comes close to you
No one makes me feel the way you do
You're so special girl to me
And you'll always be, eternally
Everytime I hold, you near
Always say the words, I love to hear

“I think we cannot give Celine a baby brother just by your singing.” Dylan said imitating his Australian accent.  

His wife is right. They should start working.  He gave her a passionate kiss as he led her to their huge bed. 

---------END---------

MORENA-Chapter19

Few months after at Aunt Mardz’s residence…

Cedric and Dylan’s family were having a cheerful dinner. All were merrily exchanging stories. Everybody has suggestions for the wedding. His Dad Marcus and her Dad Samuel, including her mom Sophia were attentively listening to Aunt Mardy’s version of the enthralling Cedric and Dylan love story.  As their siblings gave their comments, the couple just laughed happily.  

All of a sudden, Leslie stood up. “I just want to give a speech.” She said as if asking everybody’s permission.

Everyone agreed by giving their smiles and nods, except her brother Cedric.

She cleared her throat. “I am just a normal sister …who cares for her brother so much…”

Everybody was so pleased listening. But, Cedric was shooting her sister his annoying look. 

“I want only the best for Cedric… and then there was Addi… I like her…”

Leslie rolled her eyes.  “Brother, do you know how uncool it is to be the subject of your laser eyes*?  Don’t worry. I’m not going to ruin this dinner.” She said all smiles.

All were laughing but Cedric. He knows his sister so well.

“We were very similar. She continued. “We love bags, we love shoes, we love clothes… I thought… she’s perfect for Cedric… but Dylan came…” She smiled at Dylan. “Unlike Addi, she was very plain and simple. She loves to laugh, she loves to hit my brother, someone told me.”  Leslie smiled again. “But Dylan… is the only girl who has sole the power to make my stubborn brother do a lot of things; it is as if she has a spell on him.”

Cedric started to relax.  

“Suddenly, Cedric loves going to school. He started attending mass.” Leslie was looking at her brother.  “The lazy Cedric turned into a responsible man…” Then she looked at Dylan again.   “…mainly because of you Dylan…”

“But he also became his worst when he lost you. I saw those… and…he cried… a lot.”

“So when I heard about the news..., I am more than happy. I heard from Ryan actually. Every detail, when you answered the worst wedding proposal ever” Leslie laugh quietly.    

“So… in behalf of our family, we thank you. Thank you for loving my brother. Welcome to our family Dylan” Leslie walked towards her and gave Dylan a warm hug.     

--------------

Beyond everyone’s persuasion to have a grand wedding, a simple wedding followed in 2 months. The wedding took place in a small church in Cebu as the sunset. It was very intimate wedding. Only very close friends and relatives were invited. Dylan would have wanted Ian to be here but of course, his absence was understandable.

Leslie did the simple yet elegant wedding gown, making the bride even lovelier.             

At the bridal reception, beautiful white roses were attractively arranged. The function was by the beach. And as the darkness scattered, beautiful yellow lights filled the place. The place looked like an enchanted glittering ball from a far, where pixies merrily gathered.           

Cedric’s mom was there. The groom was so delighted. After so many years, his family is complete even just for few hours. Together they celebrated this joyful moment.         

“We are truly thankful for your presence here tonight. Thanks for the gifts. I know everyone spent a lot for those.” Cedric was talking before the small crowd, holding his wife’s hand.

 

 “But can you do me a favor please…?  Can you please… leave as early as possible, so I can have my wife alone?” The groom said in jest.  

Their friends and families were laughing.

“Of course, I was just kidding. Thanks a lot for coming, we are very happy to see all of you. Enjoy the night.”

Then the newly weds returned to their seats.  

“We love seeing you suffer Cedric. Brannon and I will be very pleased to build our tent here tonight.” Ryan said coming from their back.   

“Don’t mind him Dylan. My friend is just very jealous because he can never have a beautiful wife.” Cedric seemed whispering but what he said was very audible.

Ryan cleared his throat. “That’s what you thought” The comic guy in black suit stood straight. He was looking so confident, his hands was in his pocket. “I guessed Leslie never told you about our dates.” He glanced at smiling Leslie and winked.

Cedric eyes widen in disbelief. “No way!”

You can never be too sure. Ryan is funny. Everyone could fall for a guy like him. Remember that Leslie and Ryan are close!  

“Oh yes! We’ll soon be my brother in laws, Cedric.” Ryan said widely grinning.

“Dream on Ryan!” He gave a mocking laugh.    

   

“Hey! You should be proud. This guy will soon be in Guinness, the world’s fastest dishwasher.” Brannon came to rescue Ryan, tapping his guy’s shoulders.     

 “Of course my sister has standards.” He rudely grabbed Ryan’s collar, showering him with a sarcastic look from head to toe. Leslie and Ryan? That’s Impossible!  

Leslie, Dylan and Frances were exchanging glances . “Sadly, they’ll never be immune to each other.” Leslie told the two girls.

Ryan gave his loud laughed, making his Korean eyes even more tinier. “I caught you there brother!” Ryan said while removing the steel hands of Cedric. “Even if you say you don’t, this proves that you believe everything I say. Thanks Cedric! “Ryan hugged Cedric “The dating was just a joke... The truth is Dylan asked me to be the godfather of your first child. So brace your self because we’ll be closer than ever.”

“Of course I will be one too. Dylan promised me to talk to you about it. I could teach your child how to sing” That was a good point from Brannon. Cedric could not believe his ears. What happened to Ryan’s sidekick?  

Brannon and Ryan? Godfathers of his first ever child? Brannon is acceptable, but Ryan? What will he teach his child? His mosquito dance? His cockroach dance? And some other insect dances?

Cedric held his wife’s hand and walked somewhere far from Ryan and Brannon. “We better dance!” He hates the day when these two met. They are the best irritants. “I was right; we should have not invited them.” He whispered to his wife when they reached the dance floor.

She didn’t talk. Her hands on his neck started to massage him, as she gave her adoring gaze. 

His hands on his waist tighten, pulling her closer. “This is the best day of my life.” He whispered softly to her. This is his wife Dylan; she changes his mood in a flash.

“I love you!” She mumbled as she kissed his ear.

He pulled back. “Don’t play with me my wife. I was serious when I asked them to leave us alone as soon as possible.” Intense passion gleamed in his eyes.

Dylan just laughed and then she hugged her groom.     

Perfect couple! Leslie thought. She could not help to envy her brother. Cedric found his match and she hopes to meet hers soon.

She walked out of the place. Leslie already said her goodbye to the newly weds an hour ago. She needed to catch her flight. As much as she wanted to stay, her work doesn’t permit her to do so. The winter collection by Real will be in 3 days. Last minute details needs to iron out.

----------

18 hours later at Munich, Germany

She just arrived at the airport. She was busy talking to Mye, her friend, another fashion designer. “Where are you?... Ohh! Never mine. I’ll just call a cab.” She laid her hermes bag on top of her luggage. She’s so tired.   

Her weary eyes widen when the expensive bag fell on the floor. “No,no,nooo!” She exclaimed. The next scene was more horrifying for her. A cart loaded with seemed to be heavy things squashed her bag. 

”My Hermeeeeees!” She shouted, her exhausted eyes lighted in irritation

“I’m sorry miss. I didn’t see it.” The offender was a tall guy.

“Look!” She disgustedly showed him the bag.

Still a bag! he thought. It has some dirt on it but it was not very visible. “I’ll pay for it” He showed interest in settling the mess

“This is priceless!” She hissed

He didn’t tried to talked. This woman is very annoying. She is overreacting for that damn bag. He hates woman like this one.

“This is the limited edition Hermes bag I got from France. You can’t do anything about that!” She recited in fury. 

He sighed. He went here for a vacation. And, the last thing he wanted was to suffer because of a damn bag. He gave a smile, his most pleasant smile. “Please let’s dine in any restaurant of your choice. I think that is the least thing I could do. I‘m really sorry.”  

She wanted to knock her head. How could she possibly fail to notice this beautiful being? She was acting like a child over a bag.

Was he pissed? Did I irritate him?

Surprisingly, the girl with long obsessions to bags suddenly forgets she is. The man before her is irresistibly attractive.  

      

“I’m Leslie.” She was smiling.

 The girl so lovely was smiling at him. Who says she’s annoying? God! She’s a goddess! 

 

 “I’m Ian.” He answered. His rapid pulse rate was of course unnoticeable but his eyes were gleaming with something.         

MORENA-Chapter18

After Brannon’s call, Cedric was widely grinning.  Brannon is really insane, what was he thinking? Sure. He moved on. It’s been 6 years and he is so busy right now. Cedric went back to his work again.  

After some time I've finally made up my mind
She is the girl and I really want to make her mine
I'm searching everywhere to find her again
To tell her I love her

Why I am thinking of that song?

And I'm sorry 'bout the things I've done
I find her standing in front of the church
The only place in town where I didn't search
She looks so happy in her wedding dress
But she's crying while she's saying this

He looked around. He listened intently. He is still sane of course!  

Boy I missed your kisses all the time but this is
Twenty five minutes too late
Though you travelled so far boy I'm sorry you are
Twenty five minutes too late

The sound was coming from the speakers of his restaurant.

Against the wind I'm going home again
Wishing me back to the time when we were more than
friends

He hurriedly went out of the kitchen with his apron on.

But still I see her in front of the church
The only place in town where I didn't search
She looks so happy in her wedding dress
But she cried while she was saying this

“Who played that?” He yelled.

The music suddenly stopped.

His team gathered at his front where exchanging strange looks but Mie, his restaurant manager was looking so scared.

“Who the hell played that damn song?” He repeated. His voice was firm and strong.

Mie reluctantly raised her hand. “Your friend Brannon said it is your favorite song.”

“Do I look like I enjoyed just a bit of it?” His expression sharpens with irritation. 

 “Go back to work, before I fire you all!” He dismissed harshly.

----------------

Cedric does not know what to do. He’s actually outside Frances house right now. Dylan is inside. Brannon told him.

When he got the call from Brannon, he tried not to be affected. No matter how he tried, he found himself on the phone, booking a ticket to the Philippines. It’s been 6 long years but it’s still Dylan. Even with his denying, the thought of her getting married to someone is terrible. Determined to convince Dylan to call the wedding off, Cedric was looking like an idiot rehearsing what to say. He stepped out of the car and then went back. It was funny because he did that three times.

He gave a long sighed.  He quickly got off his car to ring the bell many times. There is no turning back! Dad did not raise a coward!

Brannon opened the gate. Excitement glowed in his eyes. Brannon was not shocked. He is expected.  

“Where’s Dylan?” Cedric asked bluntly.

 Brannon lead him to where the girls are. Flowers, wedding magazines, a wedding gown, and some other wedding stuff are scattered in the room.  Cedric unsteady gaze stopped at the creature he was longing to see. Dylan was happily showing and talking about the magazine to Frances. She’ was still as pretty as ever. Her smile could still beguile him effortlessly.  

Their eyes met. Yearning was in their eyes and then died down.

“Dylan I don’t want you to go to that wedding. I came here to stop it.” Cedric did not forget his purpose.

“What?” The two girls exclaimed. They were so surprised to see him.

Dylan was so shocked to not say something but that. However, Frances was not.

“Brannon!” Frances firmly shouted. “Get your friend out of here!”

“Why? They need to talk” Brannon said while sitting so relax.

“Of course! She should go!” Frances angrily turned to Cedric

“You heard me. I came to stoooop the wedding!” His face was so red. His teeth were clench; his fiery eyes on Frances.

Frances didn’t know how to react, Dylan especially.

“You should see your face guys, you are so funny.” Brannon was laughing so hard holding his aching stomach.

“What so funny Brannon?” He picked up the bunch of magazine on the nearest table and throw it all to guy. 

Brannon didn’t stop.  

“What’s so funny?” Frances asked this time, in irritated tone.

Brannon was force to stop. “I told him…that… Dylan is getting married. After a week, Cedric came to stop the wedding” He was looking like he will burst in laughter any moment. 

The very confused Dylan started to talk. “I’m… not… getting married. Frances is.” She said almost in whisper but he heard it.

Cedric threw a questioning look to his friend.

“It was… a joke! But… look. You came!” Brannon gave a shaky smile.

Cedric fired his piercing look again.  I’ll break your neck after this Brannon, I promise!

“Can you please go away so we can talk?” The people in living room were disperse by his commanding voice. The owner of house and her fiancé also obeyed. This is his last change. He does not want to be humiliated in front of these people especially his unforgiving friend Brannon.

“I came to do everything to stop you to that wedding.” He paused, waiting her reaction but her blank expression remained. 

“I rehearsed and memorized lengthy sentences to make you call the wedding off. But, since it is obvious that I was dupe by Brannon. They will not be useful anymore. The only thing I want to say now is; I want you back. Dylan, I sincerely want you back. We can never be sure of the future but I am certain that my love for you is stronger than ever. Marry me please!” He said breathless, he needed to say everything before his coolness drains.

Dylan could not say a word.

“And if you say no. I’ll hang my self, I swear!” Cedric added shortly.  

“Damn! That’s the worst wedding proposal I’ve ever heard.”  Brannon said. He was hiding behind a nearby plant with Frances while watching the whole scene.

 Dylan heard it. “I’m sorry! Do you want me to narrate how you proposed to Frances???”  She turned to Brannon with a mounted brow.

Brannon was tongue-tied. 

Without regard to their audience, Cedric waited for her answer. In his mind, there are flickering visions of the best spot to where he will hang himself.  Stupid!, He silently scolded himself.  

“And you Cedric, can you please enlighten me. Why are you asking me back? After 6 years?” Her coldness is the last thing he wants at this moment. 

“You can ask everybody. I came back, really! I wanted to talk to you but you were tightly guarded. I did not stop though; I even followed your date with Ian.  But I am willing to forget those.”

Still, Dylan was looking at him as if she doesn’t like what he was talking about.

However, He continued. “After all these years, it’s still you. I still love you, Dylan” His voice was warm and gently. His eyes reflected his intense longing.  “Can you please love me again? I want us back…forever.”

Her consistent remote expression is killing him, exhausting all the confidence a notorious playboy could ever have.   

“I… please… I … don’t know what to say” Cedric stuttered, could not think of anything to say.  In frustration, Cedric brushed his hair by his hands. He was a fool thinking that when he promised forever, Dylan would accept him open arms!      

He looked at Frances and Brannon. I need help! But, the two were unfeeling. They stood there with glaring eyes as if the were watching their favorite show. His shoulders fell. Brannon was right. He delivered the worst proposal ever.

He looked at Dylan again.

Dylan is smiling! Was she really smiling?

” You changed a lot. You became very talkative.” Her voice seemed so pleased.

“But you are still the same Cedric I always dream to marry.”

…You are still the same Cedric I always dream to marry!

Her words echoed in his head. Dylan still loves me! She’s still my Dylan! 

He pulled her towards him; he lovingly touched her face and kissed her with all the longing he suppressed all this years. “I miss you!” Dylan whispered between their kissing.  With the passion they have, they kissed. Their audiences were very thoughtful. No one ever talked, afraid to break the heart warning moment.  Both were catching their breath when the kiss ended but Cedric’s tight hold stayed. 

“So you’re Dylan? Cedric always call your name in his sleeps. Believe me, were roommates for a year.” Ryan welcomes himself to the room.  Ryan was just kidding. Cedric never allowed him to sleep in his pad. He doesn’t want his pillows or even a couch to be stained by his saliva.

“Why are you here Ryan?” Cedric asked, his annoyed   

“Brannon called. He told me you are getting married.  I thought you were really serious when you said that you will never invite me to your wedding, so I think I need to befriend the bride.”  Ryan turned to Dylan. “Hello Dylan, I’m Ryan. I’m kind. I’m funny and I’m handsome as you can see” Extending his hand for a handshake. 

“Nice meeting you Ryan.” Dylan just nodded her head because her hands could not escape from Cedric’s unyielding hold.  She was smiling widely. Crazy friends surrounded her fiancé.

“I still don’t want your face in my wedding! Including you Brannon!” Cedric firmly said not letting go of his future wife.

“What if, I’ll dishes? I’m the best dishwasher in town, you know!” Ryan suggested.

They all laughed at Ryan. Indeed, no one is immune to his charm, unless you think lost your life.  In Cedric’s case, that’s when he lost Dylan.

        

MORENA-Chapter17

The untold story of Dylan and Ian II…

“I just want to take care of you. Why don’t you let me?” A teenager guy asked his girlfriend.

“I can take care of my self. Those were just ill mannered juvenile. They will eventually get tired hounding me.” The teenage girl replied.

Dylan smiled. That was exactly how she answered Cedric when he found out from Frances about the bullies in school. So ancient!  She thought.

“Why are you smiling?” Ian took her hand. They were sitting at the park.  Ian went to their house this morning. Since it’s weekend they agreed to walk at the park.

 Years ago, getting to where they are now was unimaginable. When Cedric left, she thought no one would ever replace him.  She tried to go out with Ian several times but she stopped seeing Ian when he kissed her. Dylan kissed him back, something she regretted a minute later. She was still thinking of Cedric then. She was thinking of kissing Cedric!

Even with Frances disagreeing, she kept her distance to Ian. She hated Ian then. Dylan felt he took advantage of her. But when he saw her 3 months ago, Ian didn’t stop.  Ian never fails to send flowers or chocolates almost everyday.             

“Nothing! I just remembered something!” She shrugged.

“I want to be a hard core plastic surgeon, you know that right? Ian asked unexpectedly as he smiled at her.

“Yeah! I know!” Dylan smiled back. 

“Dylan, I planned to continue my studies in Seattle. Yesterday, I received the acceptance letter from Seattle Grace Hospital, I teaching hospital. I need to be there early next year.” Ian informed her

“Congratulations!” Her voice was broken. She looked away to hide her misty eyes.  She wanted to be happy for Ian but her spirit was compress by to much pain.  Here we go again! 

Ian tightens his grip to her hands “I’m ready to give that up if you marry me, Dylan” Gently he said.

Dylan was so overwhelmed to say a word. She opens her mouth but she cant seems to think of anything to say. Few minutes have passed but Ian’s proposal remained unanswered.

 Ian smiled. “I’m not in a hurry. I’ll give you time to think about this. We’re only 24 and I know you have a lot in mind.” 

This is Ian. With his Christian behaviors, any girl he will choose to marry would be the luckiest. Dylan is the luckiest indeed. Ian never left her.  He is always ready to understand her and patiently waited for his turn.  

She held his face. “I don’t even know if I deserve you.” Dylan was crying.

 “Of course you do! Stop crying!” Ian tightly hugged Dylan. “Let’s go back.  Think about it, huh?”

They were merrily walking hand and hand towards her Aunt’s house. She still lives there, taking care of her Aunt.  Dylan who had been working so hard since she graduated persuaded her Aunt to take an early retirement. 

When Ian left, she entered in her room to think.  She took a box from her closet. She opened it. It showed a ring coated in white gold, a very simple ring.  “I should throw you now!” Dylan was talking to the ring.            

----------

Cedric was so busy running their restaurant. This week, his playboy side was momentarily on leave. Cedric, who is also a graduate of culinary arts, needs focus to perfect a new dish. They will need this for the grand opening of their 12^th branch, for reinventing Jade.

His phone rang again. His caller was relentless so he turned off his phone. He must finish his job soon, he agreed to go out with Claire this weekend.

Few minutes later, one of his crew interrupted his cooking.

“A certain Brannon called. He said if you continue ignoring his call, you will regret all your life.” His crew said breathless.

“Okay!” He said walking towards the sink to wash his hands. Cedric opened his iphone to call Brannon after. He was about to open his mouth when Brannon talked.               

        

“The girl of your dreams is getting married really soon.”

“Jessica Alba is already married dude!” Cedric said in laughter.

“I’m serious, Cedric. Dylan is getting married. I just wanted you to know.” 

Brannon heard Cedric laughing so hard and loud at what he just said. “Why? I already move on!” Cedric told him after.

“Okay!” Brannon sounded unconvinced.

“I am.”

  

“The wedding will be this coming month. I just wanted you to know” Brannon said and then the line was cut.

MORENA-Chapter16

Sydney, Australia

Few months after Cedric left the Philippines…

Cedric just turned 18. When most people in the world merrily celebrate theirs, Cedric was seating on his bed cheerless. He opted not to celebrate it even with Addi and Leslie’s insistency. There is none to be happy about. In 6 months, he will be getting married with Addi. That would be 2 months after Addi’s debut.  

His family still lives in their grand mansion. The jade is still in their family, and continuously will if they will not breach the contract. His dad uninformed of the marriage was so grateful of his helpful friend Jack, and responding to treatments.

Brannon kept calling him since he left, asking a lot of things. But, Cedric remained tongue-tied, no way will he divulge his foolish circumstance. Eventually, Brannon gave up.

Cedric is now living a miserable life. He seems to lose the ability to laugh or even smile. Ryan wasn’t even useful, their comic neighbor and his friend since grade school. With Leslie’s help, Ryan has access to his room to show his antics.

He heard the door opened. Cedric stayed heedless of whoever that was. He kept scanning the pictures of the girl he left.

“Happy birthday!”

“That’s inappropriate. I hate this birthday.”  Cedric answered his sister flatly.

“I brought you an exciting gift” Leslie gladly said.

Cedric remained unexcited.

 Leslie seated next to Cedric. She gave a long sigh. Since he was back, this is Cedric unhappy. He has become distant, even from her. In the hope that he will move on eventually, she put up with it. But, seeing him this way each day is excruciating. And so, she did the last thing to help her brother.

“You are now free.”

Cedric gave uncomprehending look.

“You need not to marry Addi anymore”

“Seriously?” He said in a mocking tone. It’s hard to believe that uncle Jack will give to charity. 

“I called mom. She will be paying everything with interest.” Leslie informed him.

“What? How?”  He asked with disbelief.

She gave an old looking letter. “I found that in the mail box years ago. Do you remember when I was still 17? My favorite thing was to peek at the mailbox.”

“Mom sent letters for the four of us.” Cedric was reading the unsealed letter thoroughly. The letter was greeting him for Christmas, saying sorry and asking for forgiveness. He waited long ago for this. But he could not have any ill feelings to his sister.

“That was the first letter she wrote for you. I don’t want you to know, especially dad, so I kept it. Every year since then, she sends letters but I made sure that no single letter from her would escape.”

“I still hate her but we need her money. Her partner is a construction and real state magnate in Ireland.” Leslie kept talking.  

Cedric kept listening.

“I tried to forgive her, I am still trying… but those memories of her leaving us beyond my begging and crying kept haunting. Seeing Dad on his knees and Derek silently crying were awful.” Tears fell as she spoke.

Cedric did not talk. He understands his sister. He was too young to remember then.

“I guessed you’re starting to forgive mom” He found his voice at last.  “You asked help from her, something we don’t expect you will ever do. You did something very special. Thanks for the wonderful gift!”

He hugged his sister. Leslie hugged him back tightly; they were laughing and crying at the same time. “I missed my crazy brother!” She said merrily jumbling his hair.

---------

Dylan studies in UST. That’s the only information he got from Brannon. Dylan changed his number and surely, her furious Aunt wouldn’t talk about his call. He needed to talk to Dylan in person but her bodyguards were doing their job very well. Frances was very angry. Brannon was not even allowed to hangout with their group. Ian was always there.

This is the third day Cedric following Dylan but he could not get any single chance to talk to her.  After his conversation with Leslie, he flew as soon as he could. Sure. After what happen, There’s no easy way to get Dylan back.

Yesterday, Frances accidentally saw him. He had no choice but to face her and tell her he wants Dylan back. Frances laughed mocking and said that he was 8 months late, that Dylan already moved on with Ian. Of course, he did not believe that. But as he looked at Dylan and Ian happily conversing about who knows what, his confidence seems to drain really soon.

Cedric is becoming impatient as he followed Ian’s car. He will talk to Dylan no matter what.  He seriously wanted Dylan back. But. when they reached Dylan’s house, Cedric who was about to get off his car was surprised of how Ian acted. He kissed Dylan on the lips. He wanted to shout in fury, but he bravely waited for Dylan’s reaction. His fury was transform to immense anguish. Dylan was kissing Ian back!

“So, it’s true. She moved on.” He bitterly uttered. Frances was right!

He don’t know how he got the strength to stay there watching the unpleasant scene. Silently he retreated in great lamentation.

He was crying as he left the place. Shit! When did he become too weak? Since when did he become a crying machine? Since you fall in love with Dylan. He answered himself silently.

Love? He will never be fool by that emotion ever again. From this day, that word doesn’t exist for James Cedric Reid.

He will continue his business studies in Australia. He will be successful. He will bed beautiful women. Never will a single girl will turn his life up side down again. Cedric promised to himself that night.    

MORENA-Chapter15

He was playing the glass of the fourth tequila he ordered. His body could tolerate huge amount of alcohol because he always drinks a lot. Though, he was a bit tipsy now. Still, he didn’t care, he would need this. She was eyeing the girl who entered just a few minutes ago. Whoa! I really love dark skinned girls. What a pleasant evening, he thought. He finished his glass and move to the table where the girl was seated.

“Hello! Seems you are alone…” He said while wearing the smile that will make girls swoon before him.

      

“Hi! Yeah! Chilling alone” The girl replied

“Do you mind if I join you?” He asked smirking like an idiot.

“I don’t…at all” The girl replied with glaring eyes.

“Thanks!” He said then he seated next to her. “I’m Ryan by the way” He added and extended his hand.

 “I’m Mae” The girl replied and they shook hands.

A smiling image of a girl crossed his mind but he dismissed it. She’s not her. She’s not her. He repeatedly told himself. They have the same name. She seldom use Mae, Everybody calls her Dylan. She prefers to be called Dylan because it is the name of her mother’s favorite character in the movie Charlie’s Angels.

There are millions of people in the world named Mae or Dylan, His mind answered back. And they have the same skin color too, his mind insisted.         

An hour later and they were sharing a passionate kiss. He was kissing her lovingly, the way he used to kiss the girl with the same name… before!  

He brought her to a hotel and there they had an explosive night. The girl was so hot, made him so tired.

--------

“Cedric! Cedric! Come out, you bastard.” Ryan yelled outside the door. He did not care if he wakes everyone up in this building. It was Saturday morning in Australia, 7am. Probably most people in this building were still resting. Most people here do not sleep during Fridays, most go to parties. They must had fun but not Ryan, obviously.  

“Why?” Sleepy Cedric asked as he opened the door wearing his boxers.

Ryan entered inside and slammed the door. “How dare you say that? This is the third time you did this!

“Did what?” He impatiently replied. He could not deal with Ryan this early. He needs to sleep.

“You use my name. You gave my number and now another girl is harassing me!” Ryan shouted to his friend

“How dare you wake me up for that flimsy reason?  Cedric started to walk back towards his room.

“You call this flimsy? You did this three times. That means I need to change my number again. What about my job? What about my friends, family? What about my distracted life? And last night when I went to Joey’s, there were two men searching for “Ryan”, and that stupid Joey with a big mouth said I am the only Ryan who goes regularly there. So they punched me twice and I was also kicked by these men hard without explaining and left.” Ryan narrated on the top of his voice.

“Thanks Dude! What a great friend I have in you” Cedric tapped Ryan’s shoulder and moved to get back to his interrupted sleep.

The furious Ryan swung his fist and landed it on the face of his insensitive friend.

“Stop dragging me into your mess! Cedric, you were always responsible. But I don’t know what plagued your head and now you are being an asshole” Cedric was sleepy no more; Ryan’s punch tugged him to reality. Ryan was really furious. This kind of him rarely comes out for he is always funny, someone you would not take seriously.

“This is not you, Cedric. You are not a heartless playboy”. Ryan said while shaking his friend.

“Leave Cedric alone, whoever you are!” Ryan repeatedly saying, shaking Cedric shoulder stronger this time. The hilarious Ryan is back.

“Father Ryan stop!” Cedric managed to say while laughing so hard.

“What you want?” He said while getting rid of Ryan’s hold.  “Years ago, you wanted me to my live life, to enjoy. All of you were insistent that I should go out, date. Now, that now that I am enjoying my life, everyone wanted me to quit this? You are insane people!”

“I don’t remember encouraging you to use my name to make girls cry. You are tainting my uncontaminated reputation.”  Ryan said this really serious but made him looking so funny at the same time. Just by that look, Cedric could not stop laughing.     

“What happened to you man? You came back here grieving. You did not talk to people; my jokes seemed have lost their power, because you couldn’t even smile. You were always mad…”

He didn’t want to remember that. Cedric went to his kitchen and poured himself a glass of water. But nothing will stop the Korean guy he knew since grade school. Ryan followed him and continued his lecture.

”And then you changed. You started going out. We were all happy… but you became a monster. Either you changed girlfriend monthly or weekly.”  

Cedric was not reacting. He took the box of pizza from the refrigerator instead.

“I did my research and I found out a girl named Dylan. Brannon told me your story…It…” This guy could be a showbiz writer.

Cedric shoved the entire slice of pizza to Ryan’s mouth. “Lock the Door when you leave!” He said leaving Ryan in the kitchen.

“Brannon told me that Dylan is hot. I guessed you should do something to get her back” Ryan was talking while his mouth is full as he followed Cedric.

         

Cedric grabbed Ryan by the collar and towed him outside. “I did not ask for a preacher, Ryan”