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”

              

MORENA-Chapter14

Dylan is at last alone in her room. Frances and Ian just left. All were worried about her especially her Tita. She was too weak to cry, too weak to even feel. She was numb looking blankly at the ceiling. She closed her eyes, hoping to fall asleep.

His loving stares at her flickered. She bites her lower lips until it bleeds. She was wrong. She was still in pain. Tears started to fall again. How could she escape this torment? Just a thought of him and she was dragged back to death. She couldn’t do anything but to helplessly cry.

“Oh…girls are so stupid!” She said with despair and anguish. Her misery is immense, beyond all bounds. If Dylan’s heart were to burst and her, misery to flow out, it could flood.

I missed him! She woke up with that thought, Feeling empty again. She looked around. White walls? Her room was in blue paint, she recalled. There were familiar faces staring at her, Frances, Ian, and her Tita. All were wearing their sadness. 

“We are in a hospital.” her Tita informed her. “You were dehydrated.” She said sounding like she’s about to cry.

She remembered. She refused to take everything, even a sip of water. Looking intently at the IV hooked in her left hand, Dylan’s face tightened. He didn’t even care!

  

Eyes with concern were looking at her, she sensed again. Dylan refused to speak to them. Just wanting to crawl away and hide where no one could ever guessed at the humiliation and pain she suffered.

Green apples in basket on her left were so inviting. With her Titas help, Dylan sat on the bed. Astonishment was in the eyes of three being inside when she slowly reached for an apple to feed herself. No one voice out about it. They busied themselves discussing about a commercial showed at the plasma before them.

“I want water!” Dylan said as she tried to stand up since no water was visible to her inspection. Ian’s anticipation to her fall was helpful for he catch her in time.

Aunt Mardy quickly opened a bag on the couch and passed a bottled of water.

“I want to be home.”  She uttered when she finished her drink. At that, moment she decided to quit her foolishness.

Both Frances and Ian were supportive. Ian never failed to fetch her in school.  He asked her out. Frances became like a protective hen to any guy who’s showing interest to her. She also stopped seeing Brannon. Her friend blamed Brannon for what happened, something Dylan disapproved.

Frances soften when Ian started to pursue her. He was the only man Frances permitted to court Dylan. Frances was aware that his affection to her was never faltered, in fact it grew stronger. They were dating for two months when Frances ended Brannon’s misery by accepting his love.

6 years have passed. She’s now an architect, Ian on the other hand will soon be a plastic surgeon. Frances, an English professor is very much in love with Brannon who was set to build his own coffee shop.

----------

This morning Dylan was searching for the new magazine she bought last Tuesday, when she came across with an old envelope, inside it was a file of her notes in college. She was about to read it when a thing, seemed to be metal fall between her feet. A ring!   

       

“You still keep that?” Frances asked. Gushing of those memories was halt by her friend’s icy voice.

“Ahmmm…No.” Dylan reluctantly answered which made Frances raised her brow.

“Well, ye..yeah! But I am planning to sell it on on Ebay.”

“After 6 years? Come on! Dylan, I thought you’ve moved on”

“Of course I have moved on! What are you thinking? This is just a simple jewelry”

“Seriously?” Frances could not seem to agree.

“Seriously!” Dylan answered.

“I am just worried. You might see him in 2 months. Brannon will tell him of course”  

“Franz,  I cradled this junk years ago. But, there’s no big deal. I just forgot to throw it.”

Frances remained unconvinced. “Okay!...”

Frances phone beeped. “It’s Lhee. I think we should get going. We will be talking a lot about the wedding.” Frances announced later.

Lhee is the wedding planner they choose for the simple wedding by the beach.

MORENA-Chapter13

2 weeks earlier… 

He was sleeping soundly when his phone rang. He tried to cover his ears with his pillow. Who could possibly that caller be? His phone kept ringing. He drowsily checked his clock on the desk. For god sake, it was 3am. He reached his phone to know who the unforgiving creature was. He was about to open his mouth when the caller talked.

“Hey! Brother, Listen…” The caller was his sister Leslie.

“What do you want?” He disgustedly interrupted.

“Cedric, this is about dad…” His sister sounded crying.

He felt his pulse rate quicken. “What about dad?” He asked breathlessly, silently shaken.

“He… got cancer, second stage colon cancer.” Leslie was weeping harder and louder this time.

Cedric was shocked. He was numb by what he heard.  That couldn’t be possible. Dad is strong, he’s healthy. Cancer? No way! His mind strongly denied.

“He was diagnosed 3 months ago.  He was about to go to the airport when he collapsed. He wanted to see… you… compete. You know dad. He always thought that… you are the best swimmer. We wanted to tell you but he asked us not to, not on the day of your competition.” Leslie told him .

His heart was filled by pain that he could not even speak.

“He was seeking treatments behind our back. I thought…I thought…he was just on a business trip.” Leslie managed to continue between her cries.

Unstoppable tears were flowing through his eyes. One thing he would never believed he has. He heard everything Leslie said. He’s dad is sick! He got cancer, the dreaded cancer!

He wasn’t sure how they ended up their conversation. All he was sure about was the fact that he did not sleep since that call came in. He cried alone in his room like a child. What could he possibly do to help his father? He is just seventeen. He couldn’t afford to lose his father. No way! He was so angry. Why the hell cancer existed? Why my father? Why our family? Why today? Why not after 10 years? His mind got a lot of questions but answers were inaccessible.

He wanted to tell Dylan so bad but she was in Cebu. He was certain that she was the only person who could appease him. But on the other end, I didn’t want to bother her vacation.

He can’t go home, he thought. Cedric is more than frightened to see his dad right now.

He continued his normal routine. Eventually, Leslie will call and tell me it was wrong, that those stupid doctors misdiagnosed his father.

After a week, Leslie called again but she broke news that he never expected. 

“Our lawyer said we are broke, that we are bound to lose our house and the Jade in two months.” Leslie was talking about their mansion in Sydney.  The very house where he and his siblings grew up. It was the house of his grandparents. The house his father treasured the most. The Jade? That is their restaurant business named after his grandmother’s favorite gemstone. It has already 6 branches.

“That’s not possible! It couldn’t be possible, Leslie!” Cedric shouted in shocked.

“It was already verified by Derek. Sadness in Leslie’s voice is palpable.

He wanted to talk but he uttered nothing.

“Dad will be need expensive and long treatments…we already talked to some of his friends…they helped out but it wasn’t enough to deal with our debts. Uncle Jack offered but he has condition… you need to… marry Addi when you both turned 18…” Leslie told his brother.

“What? That’s insane!” He said in disbelief

“No. This is the only way to get our lives. We can’t live through government support, Cedric.” Leslie firmly responded.

“There must be other way” Cedric wanted to be hopeful

”I’m afraid there’s none” Leslie replied

“I cant marry Addi, I have a girlfriend and I love her.” Cedric couldn’t be persuaded easily.

“Then break up with her. You are better with Addi. You will be perfect together.”

Leslie said without a blink.

“You can ask anything but not that Leslie.” Cedric firmly responded with clenched teeth

“You know what? If I’m on your shoes, I’ll marry Addi without thinking ‘cause that means saving our family.” His sister got mad because of what he said.

“Why are you so imposing? I’m only seventeen for god sake! I cant marry Addi. I cant marry anyone.” Cedric was mad too.

“Exactly my point. You are only seventeen. How can you be so sure that you will end up with that girl?” Leslie was not backing off.

“You don’t get it, do you? I can’t marry Addi because I don’t love her.” Cedric was not retreating either.

“You are stupid!  Can’t you see? Addi loves you so much. She even followed you there, to study at your school. And you are choosing that girl over her? Filipinas only love money. They marry foreigners for their convenience. That happened to dad.” Leslie told his brother furiously.

“Shut up!” Cedric shouted.

“You shut up and listen to me!” Leslie yelled on top of her lungs. “Yes. You maybe very much infatuated with that Dylan girl…but for how long? 2, 3 years? Then what? We will lose everything? What about dad? He deserve the best treatments there is. We can’t lose him, understand? And if you still dissert us for that girl, forget your family. Don’t ever come to Australia. Stay in that god forsaken place” Leslie shouted full of rage.

She said everything to convince his brother. Yes, she was afraid to lose their father but at the same time she was also afraid to lose the life she used to. She’s only 21. She planned to study in Paris next year with her friends. How would she do that? They are bankrupt. So he should agree, he must agree.

Cedric was very furious, not to his sister but to his situation. He was so damn sure that Dylan is his life. No material things would matter more than her.

But what about dad? He thought. Jade is his life since his mother left. And then there’s the house. He owed that to his father, he should give it, that is his father’s happiness, his whole family’s. Would he be selfish and chose his happiness?

 What about Dylan? How would he tell her? She would be back on Saturday.  

    

Leslie already got her a ticket to Australia. He chose his family but he would protect Dylan in a way he knew. Dylan deserved someone who would stand by her no matter what, that was not him. But he knew Dylan so well. They would stand by each other, they both promised.

If there was something, he learned from Leslie about relationship that was to make the girl so angry at you. You would need her anger, if you wanted her to move on the fastest. Leslie was just 17 then. She got her heartbreak from a guy she always thought her great love. Leslie was very mad to the guy that she shredded everything that reminded her of his boyfriend. And then few weeks after, she’s dating.  She should hate me! She should stop loving me!

He was busy packing his things when the angry Ian called him on the phone.

Ian was phasing back and fort when he approached him. Security is really tight in his condo, so uncalled visitors are required to wait at the lobby. Ian cut the few feet between them and smacked his face really hard.

“How dare you do that to her. I should have not let you win” Securities were alert. They were able to restrain Ian. Cedric was speechless. He didn’t need to say a thing. He deserved it anyway. He wiped down his bleeding lips.  

“You bastard! I’ll kill you when you ever get near her again.” He heard Ian shouted on top of his voice as the two security guards dragged him outside.       

      

MORENA-Chapter12

 

”So how’s your dad?” Dylan asked Cedric while they were walking out of the chapel. He is a little different today. He was very quiet.

“He’s fine” He flatly answered.

“Are you okay?” Dylan inquired

“Come let’s sit” His answer was far from what she said. Cedric took her hand and led her to the school park. It was already summer but both were just love going to Eton.  

“I want to tell you something.” Cedric said when they already seated.

“Okay” She focused her eyes on him.

”Dylan, I will go back to Australia” He managed to say after a long sigh.

“Okay! So how long will you stay there?” She was starting to be nervous because of his the tone. But. she was trying to dismiss any negative thought.

“I’m staying there for good.” He was not looking at her.

Dylan didn’t know how to respond.

“Dylan, we need to__…”

“I can handle long distance relationship” She stopped what he was trying to say.

Cedric did not answer.

“And you can still visit me right?” She was teary-eyed as her slender hands framed his face. She is frightened to where this talk will lead them.

“I could have said no…really…” He was still keeping his eyes off her. “But I think I don’t love you enough to stay…”

Her hands fell back to her sides as if they had been burn. Her bewildered hurt showed in her eyes, but Cedric seemed immune to it. Blind to her pleading eyes, Cedric kept his cold expression.

“Stop! You are really a bad liar. But you’re funny though” She gave a humorless laugh.

“I am serious!” His mouth tighten, his eyes were cold. “This is goodbye. Forget me, forget us. I know you are a strong girl, you won’t need me. Ian can take care of you.” Cedric said without a blink.

Incomprehensible torment filled her. How did he say that with such remote expression?

“One last chance. Take everything back; everything you said or… I will hate you for the rest of my life.” Dylan surprisingly asked shortly with quite dignity. She stiffened her spine as she waited for the reply that could cripple her emotionally.

“I can’t. This is the best for us” He said the cue to be slap twice.

“I will hate you for the rest of my life then” She said with a blank face then stood up. “And oh! You forgot your junk.” She disgustedly removed their promise ring she was wearing. She gave him the thing.

Something flickered in his eyes and then died. “I can’t keep this” Cedric threw the ring on the football field at her back. He hurriedly left after. 

The tears she has too controlled, too hurt to allow to flow cascaded down her on cheeks.

I can’t keep this. Then he was gone. She closed her eyes. Sure, she could not have heard him correctly, that this time she was just having a nightmare. That wasn’t Cedric! For god sake, it could not be him!

Slowly she opened her eyes. She was still standing in front of a bench near the school chapel. And her eyes are wet, with tears.

So he really left me, he… Cedric left me. She repeatedly told her self. Immeasurable grief superseded her being. His act was unbearable. Then she wept as if the last thing to do on earth was to cry.   

Cedric threw the ring! Their promise ring flickered in her mind. The ring that says that indeed, there was Cedric and Dylan was gone. Their 7 months of being together has ended. Dylan ran to search for the ring.

Rain started to pour but she didn’t care. Few minutes later, she was soaking wet, but nothing would stop her. Not the puzzled or, scornful stares of people would stop her stupidity in the middle of the rain.

She did not realized that she was been searching for an hour. Then a familiar voice called.

“Dylan!”

“That Cedric is a real asshole! Do you know what he did? He left me. Ian, He broke up with me.  I can’t believe he could be that heartless.” She told her friend.

“And he threw my ring. I need to find it, Ian. I could pawn it, you know. That could be expensive.” She joked between her sobs.

Ian went to her and hugged her. “ Let’s go home. It’s raining. You might catch colds”

“I will not go home until that ring show up.” She answered firmly.

Unwavering drive showed in her weary yet pretty face. Something that was pretty much contagious, so Ian helped her. They were not talking; both were so focus on finding the thing. 30 minutes passed and then…

”Ian, I found it, I found it…” She said crying, clinging the ring as if her life comes from it.

   

The girl that always wears a happy smile is weeping, the sole being that brings him sunshine just be a smile. Ian held her tighter. He sincerely begged to the high heavens to give him the power to get ride of her pain. Unfortunately, all he could give was a warm hug while she’s cold. “I’m still here MM, I’m still here…“ He whispered.

---------

Cedric was driving home. “Its raining. He should be there. I already called him.” Frustration was in his voice.

One side of him wanted to break down, go back to her and tell her sorry for being a jerk.   Tell her to wait for him but, the other assured him that he did what is right. That if he couldn’t escape from the agreement, He will left Dylan waiting and hoping for nothing.       

  

She will be okay.

Stupid! Any girl wouldn’t be okay when you break up with her and left her in the middle of the rain! His other side shouted back.

“I know Dylan. She’s strong. She’s always strong physically and emotionally.” Cedric convinced himself.