“We’ve been going out for  3 months but you still haven’t told me you love me.”, Jojo hissed.

“God! We’re in the new millennium already. Is that even important?”, Kiko told Jojo as he tried to reach her hand but Jojo shove him away.

“It is important to me! Everyday, I tell you I love you but you seem to be choking everytime it’s your turn to say it back.”

“Jojo…” Kiko said in a deep serious voice. “I like you. I like you a lot.”

“Yeah right, like it can do something to make me feel better right now.”, Jojo said, raising an eyebrow.

Kiko wrapped his arms around her to console her. He always does this to keep her calm and each time, he never fails.

“I cooked steak. We can eat already.”, Jojo said, faking a smile as she turns around to him and give him a quick kiss.

In the Philippines, Melmar and Nadine worry about Schai even after months of going out with Meljohn.

“You know what? I still don’t get it. Why, all of a sudden, hindi na nagpaparamdam si Kiko sa atin.”, Nadine told Melmar while they are on their way to Muay Thai training.

“Maybe he wants to move on, already. Siguro he thinks we will only remind him of Schai. And he is happy there. He’s getting along with his sisters and the last time I checked, he seems to be holding up just fine.”, Melmar convinced himself when deep inside he worried about his bestfriend, too.

“BTW, did Meljohn tell you anything about him and Schai?”, Nadine asked.                                                         

“They are okay. He said, they get along pretty well.”, Melmar grimaced.

Schai and Meljohn have been constant companions from the time they knew each other. Meljohn seems to be doing an awesome job on how to divert Schai’s attention. They go jamming together; he takes her out of town. He tries his best to give her the happiness she deserves.

At the gym, Arkin and Aj are doing their warm up when Nadine and Aj arrived.

“Guys, alam nyo na ba?”, Arkin asked, Aj was quick to give him a don’t-tell-them look.

“Ang alin? Ano yun, AJ?”, Melmar asked.

“Si Arkin talaga! Kiko is arriving with his gf next week.”, AJ said worriedly.

“Talaga?! Excited!”, Nadine exclaimed.

“Pero Nadz, bro, wag daw sabihin sa inyo eh! Wag na daw magtanong bakit basta wag na daw paalam sa inyo.”, AJ told Nadine and Melmar.

“Ah okay. Hayaan mo siya, Tara, let’s get started.”, Melmar said, pretending he doesn’t care.

At the cafe.

Schai browsed through facebook and for the first time in three months, she attempted to view Kiko’s account. Only, she seemed to be blocked or something. For some reason, she couldn’t view it. She slammed the mouse and when Rose asked, she told her that she wanted to view a classmate’s FB account and she’s blocked.

“Ah! Eh baka kasi wala ng FB yung classmate mo. Twitter na kasi uso ngayon!”, Rose informed her.

Schai highlighted the address bar and typed www.twitter.com. Searched for Kiko.

Loading…

Loading…

Loading..

Then alas!

Kiko from Spain with an updated picture of him.

She could hear her heart beating. Is she having a heart attack? She read his tweets from top to bottom.

“Boring day..”

“On the way home from jamming session with @missjojo.

“Good morning, @missjojo!”

“Finally! On the way to pick up my new PS3! Yey!”

“@meowkikocel Haha! Yeah that’s me in the billboard with @missjojo..”

“Pictorial with @missjojo.. “

“Doing a cover of Don’t You Remember by @officialadele”

“I am excited to record tomorrow @missjojo”

“I love this place but it’s haunted without you..”

Stop! Schai could not read any much longer. A part of her wanted to click @missjojo and fnd out who she is.

So she did.

“Had so much fun with my baby vanilla, @8rlxkiko!”

“Checking out the new boutique and looking for something to buy for @8rlxkiko”

“Happy 3^rd month @8rlxkiko! I love you!”

“Yes he is that handsome hot guy with me in the billboard @meowkikocel @8rlxkiko”

“Dry run..”

“Good morning @8rlxkiko! Let’s have a great day, baby!”

“I am sure Don’t You Remember will be a better version @8rlxkiko”

“Little House! Our favourite! @8rlxkiko.. J”

Schai stopped reading. She could already hear her heart beaking into pieces.

What was I thinking? That his tweets would be all about me? She asked herself. She instantly called up Meljohn and asked him to take her out for lunch. Meljohn hurriedly obliged.

A week after.

Kiko and Jojo are in the airport waiting for their flight.

“We will go to that place where it’s very cold. what’s that place, babe?”, Jojo asked hysterically.

“Baguio.”, Kiko answered, emotionless.

“And that place where we can go bungee jumping”..

“uh huh..”, Kiko responded, faking an excitement.

Kiko felt weak on his knees and he is not even sure if going home is a good idea. He just gave in to Jojo who has been dying to meet his dad.

Kiko and Jojo jumped up to their knees when they heard their flight is about to boards. They gathered their stuff and fell in line. After such a long flight, finally, Kiko’s home.

 They went through the normal process of arrival in the airport and after getting all their stuff, Kiko looked for his Dad. Jojo went to the restroom for a quick touch up when Kiko noticed a very familiar girl waiting in the arrival area.

Is it Schai? Yes it’s her. All the bitterness and angst disappeared and he found himself racing to her and gave her a tight hug.

“I came to see you here because I heard you did not want to see us and I might not have the chance to tell you and I never stopped loving you and I have been waiting for the day that you will come back.”, Schai said, tears falling down her cheeks like waterfalls.

“I always loved you. Always been you.”, Kiko hugged Schai even tighter.

“Kiko! Babe! Kiko!”

Kiko woke up from a light nap in the airport. Jojo’s beside him-telling him it’s time to go.

It was just a dream and it felt so real.  

Kiko will seem to be facing the biggest fear of his life-the woman he loves.

FIND OUT SOON, what happens.

Melmar and Nadine at Miller’s Point.

“Hindi ko nga alam kung bakit hindi na sumasagot si Kiko, eh. Deactivated pa account niya sa FB.”, Melmar carped.

“It’s not deactivated. We’re blocked! Pero bakit kaya? Okay naman kayo nung andun ka?”, Nadine marveled.

“I don’t know. Maybe it’s his way of moving on. Will let him be.”

“Hay! This stress will never end!”, Nadine whined.

On the other hand, Schai was busy at the internet café when Meljohn arrived.

“Hey! Lunch?”, Mejohn greeted her with a take-out bag on hand.

“Wow! Anu yan?”, Schai asked hungrily. “Kanina pa ko nagugutom kaya lang hindi ako makaalis dito. Si Papa kasi nasa bahay pa. Masama pakiramdam.”

“Timing pala ako. And timing ka, wala ako gagawin the whole day. Pwede kita samahan dito.”, Meljohn offered as he unwrap the gohan, tempura, sashimi, etc..

“Sure! Sure!”, Schai said. “Japanese?”, she murmured, staring at the food Meljohn brought. Kiko’s favorite dish. “Nah, I have to stop thinking about him even for just a second.”, she thought.

“Oh, bakit? Ayaw mo?”, Meljohn asked as he noticed the look on Schai’s face.

“Huh? They look yummy. Gutom na ko, kain na tayo!”, Schai exclaimed forcing fake smiles and excitement.

Schai has been like this for long. Her fickle heart would make her feel moved on at times but more often than not, she would feel as if she’s breaking into pieces. Everything she does, everywhere she goes, she gets reminded of Kiko. She thinks it’s wrong to use someone to forget about him but Meljohn is her last resort. They’ve been hanging out for a week already and he seems to be of help to her.

Meanwhile, Kiko and Jojo are also hanging out a lot. Kiko is enjoying himself because of Jojo sharing the same things he like. Singing, online gaming, eating out, etc .. They also spend most of their time together touring all over Spain to promote Nenuco Chip. Everyone loves them. They, indeed, look good together. They compliment each other.

“It’s actually the first time I heard that song “Little House”. I love it.”, Jojo said of one of Kiko’s favorite songs.

“I love songs like that. Songs that not everyone knows about.”

“What else do you have?”, Jojo asked.

Kiko search through his laptop what else he got on I-tunes when his Outlook popped up an alert if he wants to send unsent emails. One of those was the one for Schai. He closed it at once and switched the topic.

“Who’s Schai?”, Jojo asked.

“I would appreciate it if we do not talk about her.”, Kiko said seriously.

“I’m the only one you got. Here. You have to let it out.”

“She’s really not some good news that I would happily tell anyone who asks.”

“But I am not anyone. I’m Jojo, your most loyal friend as of now. Perhaps, you’re only friend as of the moment.”

Kiko sighed heavily and started telling Jojo what happened. Jojo listened to him with all her heart and you can sense her concern and sincerity.

“Can I hug you?”, Jojo asked.

Kiko was astonished “I guess”.

Jojo gave him a tight hug. “They say a hug says it all. You’ll be fine. You’re okay.”, Jojo said as he rubs Kiko’s arms.

Kiko was so overwhelmed with how Jojo is trying to help him cope.  She’s really such an angel to him these past few days.

“Thank you.”, Kiko told her.

They stared at each other for a brief moment and the next minute, their lips are already locked to each other’s.

“Sorry,” Kiko pushed her away gently.

“Don’t be sorry. I don’t mind you using me to forget her.”

“I’m not using someone, Jojo.”

“Sorry wrong choice of words. What I meant was let me help you forget her. You deserve to move on. Afterall, you’ve done for her. She dumped you like a piece of garbage, left you when you were still in the hospital and worse, hook up with your bestfriend!”.

Kiko was silent for awhile.

“Will talk about it again, soon. Meanwhile, can we just go back to looking for beautiful songs?”, Kiko tried to break the ice.

“Okay. But your lips are heavenly.”, Jojo teased.

“Shut up!”, Kiko laughed.

“I brought my mic just in case we want to record a video of us singing.”, Jojo teased.

“I used to do that back in the Philippines. “, Kiko said seriously.

“Really? I always wanted to do a video of me singing and post it on youtube. I just don’t have the guts.”, Jojo confessed.

“I’ll show you. Where’s the mic?”, Kiko said as he put the webcam in place.

After a moment of searching..

♪♫When will I see you again? 
You left with no goodbye, not a single word was said, 
No final kiss to seal any seams, 
I had no idea of the state we were in, 

I know I have a fickle heart and bitterness, 
And a wandering eye, and a heaviness in my head, 

But don’t you remember? 
Don’t you remember? 
The reason you loved me before, 
Baby, please remember me once more, 

When was the last time you thought of me? 
Or have you completely erased me from your memory? 
I often think about where I went wrong, 
The more I do, the less I know, 

But I know I have a fickle heart and bitterness, 
And a wandering eye, and a heaviness in my head,

But don’t you remember? 
Don’t you remember? 
The reason you loved me before, 
Baby, please remember me once more, 

Gave you the space so you could breathe, 
I kept my distance so you would be free, 
And hope that you find the missing piece, 
To bring you back to me, 

Why don’t you remember? 
Don’t you remember? 
The reason you loved me before, 
Baby, please remember me once more, 
When will I see you again?♪♫

“That’s Adele, right? It seems like you’re dedicating it to someone.” Jojo taunted.

“I am not! I just love that song!”, Kiko chuckled.

“You’re not over her. Not just yet.”, Jojo affirmed.

“I am!”, Kiko cried out.

“I am hot, Kiko. I am like the epitome of every teenager here in Spain. I never had to throw myself on anyone before. Boys go after me. But you?! You see me as someone ordinary.”

Jojo was about to exit the door, embarrassed of that she has been saying. She’s acting like a jealous girlfriend. Kiko grabbed her by the shoulder and gave her a deep intense kiss.

Jojo was out of breath so she has to move away a little. “I love you, Kiko.”

“They compliment each other. I love this shot.”, the photographer said pointing at his favorite shot of Kiko and Jojo. “Oh there you are. Kiko! Will show you something.”

“Cool. I love all your shots. “, Kiko agreed. “You know what? You should date her!”, the photographer,

Raymond, teased. Kiko just smiled. Jojo is a really nice girl. Besides, she’s the kind of girl he used to date. Kiko glanced at Jojo and decided to talk to her.

“Hey! After the shoot, do you have anything to do? Maybe we can have some coffee or something.”

“Sure.”, Jojo smiled at Kiko.

On the other hand, Schai went to the mall near their place to get some supplies she needs for the café. She was inside the bookstore when she noticed that Melmar was at the opposite boutique.

She went there and gave him a tap on the back.

“Hey! What are you doing here? Where’s Nadine?”, Schai exclaimed.

“Huh? Excuse me! Do I know you?”.

“Hahaha!!! Anu nga ginagawa mo dito?”, Schai asked again.

“Miss, sorry, I really do not know you!”

“Kainis ka na, Mar, huh?”

“Aha! You think I was Melmar, right?”

“Duh!”, Schai rolled her eyes.

“Nah, My name’s Meljohn. I’m his twin brother.”

“Twin brother?! My twin brother si Melmar?”

“Obviously.”, Meljohn smirked.

“He never mentioned you to us.”

“Oh, I grew up kasi in London. Pero now, I’m here na for good.”

“Ah okay. Cool.”

“Yeah, cool. By the way, sorry, I haven’t formally introduced myself to you. Let’s start again. Hi there! My name is Meljohn, you are?”, Meljohn said extending his hand.

“Ay sorry, my name’s Schai. I’m a friend of Melmar.”

“Yeah, I suppose. Nice meeting you.”

“Same here. Wait, I have to go, I have errands to run pa.”

“Wait, if you don’t have company, I can be of service. Wala naman ako gagawin, eh. Bored ako, actually.”, Meljohn offered.

“Sige ba. Para may tutulong sakin bubuhat ng mga pinamili ko,”, Schai joked.

“Sure!”

After Schai got all she needed, they decided to have some coffee and get to know each other. Meljohn is a joker like Melmar. Like Kiko. Schai couldn’t help but smile that every guy she meets have the same quality. They can all make her laugh. But the best of them all is Kiko. Schai noticed that the whole time, she was just thinking about Kiko so she forced herself to get engrossed with Meljohn’s topics and laughed her heart out.

Back in Spain.

“We have been working on these promos, photoshoots and all but this is actually the first time you formally talked to me,” Jojo said of Kiko.

“I’m just a shy boy.”, Kiko teased, all smiles.

“No you’re not! You used to be a “sad boy” but now you’re not. Am I right?”, Jojo guessed.

“Nah.. Anyway, so how long have you been doing this kind of stuff. You know, modeling, print ads”, Kiko asked.

“Been awhile. Like two years. How about you?”

“4 to 5 months?”

“Really?! And Nenuco got you as en endorser? Wow! You’re one lucky guy!”

“I actually didn’t know that Nenuco is “that” big of a thing! Well, until, now.”

“Yeah, luck. It comes like a thief in the night”, Jojo said with a sparkle in her eyes. Kiko blushed because even though he doesn’t want to assume, he knows that this girl is crazy about him.

“So what else do you do?”, I mean, what else do you love doing?”, Jojo asked.

“I love singing.”, Kiko chuckled.

“You do! Oh my effin gee! Me too!”, Jojo cried out.

“Bill please!”, Jojo called out, paid for the bill, grabbed Kiko’s hand and next minute…

“What’s this place? And don’t you know that back in the Philippines, the guys should pay for the bill?”

“This is not Philippines. This is a place of my friend. He is having this renovated. And he will open this up soon as a karaoke bar. See that stage up there? That is where you’re singing.”, Jojo giggled.

“Huh? I am not ready.”

“Just sing anything you want, Kiko. Guys, help my friend out here. Please.”

A guy with a guitar came out and said

“Jojo, you’ve never changed. You’re a chaos. What do you want to sing, amigo? Don’t fret! We’re used to Jojo barging in here, yelling like that, calling us out to make her sing.”

“I don’t know. I am not prepared.”

Kiko was thinking what to sing but the guy started strumming his guitar already. Luckily, it’s one of Kiko’s favorite songs.

♪♫Going back to the corner where I first saw you

Gonna camp in my sleeping bag, I’m not gonna move

Got some words on cardboard, got your picture in my hand

Saying if you see this girl can you tell her where I am

Some try to hand me money, they don’t understand

I’m not broke I’m just a broken hearted man

I know it makes no sense, but what else can I do

How can I move on when I’ve been in love with you

‘Cause if one day you wake up and find that you’re missing me

And your heart starts to wonder where on this earth I could be

Thinking maybe you’ll come back here to the place that we’d meet

And you’d see me waiting for you on the corner of the street

So I’m not moving I’m not moving

Policeman says son you can’t stay here I said there’s someone

I’m waiting for if it’s a day, a month,

a year Gotta stand my ground

even if it rains or snows If she changes her mind

this is the first place she will go

‘Cause if one day you wake up and find that you’re missing me

And your heart starts to wonder where on this earth I could be

Thinking maybe you’ll come back here to the place that we’d meet

And you see me waiting for you on the corner of the street

So I’m not moving I’m not moving I’m not moving I’m not moving

People talk about the guy

Who’s waiting on a girl, oh whoa

There are no holes in his shoes

But a big hole in his world

Maybe I’ll get famous as the man who can’t be moved

And maybe you won’t mean to but you’ll see me on the news

And you’ll come running to the corner

‘Cause you’ll know it’s just for you I’m the man who can’t be moved

I’m the man who can’t be moved

‘Cause if one day you wake up and find that you’re missing me

And your heart starts to wonder where on this earth I could be

Thinking maybe you’ll come back here to the place that we meet Oh, you see me waiting for you on a corner of the street

So I’m not moving (‘Cause if one day you wake up, find that you’re missing me)

I’m not moving (And your heart starts to wonder where on this earth I could be) I’m not moving (Thinking maybe you’ll come back here to the place that we’d meet) I’m not moving (Oh, you see me waiting for you on a corner of the street)

Going back to the corner where I first saw you

Gonna camp in my sleeping bag, I’m not gonna move♪♫

Kiko sang it with all his heart and Jojo could feel it. When he went down from the stage.

“Wow! That’s so heartfelt, huh?” For somebody special?”, Jojo asked.

“Nope. I just love that song.”

“You’re a good singer. Tomorrow, it’s your turn to hear me sing. For the meantime, let’s go home, it’s 12midnight. My manager’s gonna kill me!”

Kiko went numb of the thought of 12 midnight. But he brushed it off. If he wants to move on, he has to forget everything and just welcome new things in his life. New people. Kiko went straight to his computer after he took Jojo home. He wanted to check out the new photos sent by Raymond. In the lower right hand corner of the screen there’s People You May Know. Providentially, it was Schai’s account. He thought of browsing it to test himself what would he feel when he sees her recent pics? But the profile picture of Schai is her picture just uploaded recently. Her picture with Meljohn.

Kiko didn’t go any further. How could Melmar betray him? It’s not that he is not allowed to date Schai but he should have had the decency to tell Kiko. Not make him believe that he was dating Nadine and all. They are all traitors. They all led him on. He deleted all of them off facebook and swore to start anew. He will cut his communication with ALL of THEM until he has fully moved on. Days, months or years, he is not sure but NO CONTACT until he is sure he is okay. Jojo will help him move on.

At Schai’s café.

“Mukhang masaya ang anak ko ngayon, ah!”, Jun teased Schai.

“May na meet kasi ako bagong friend. Atleast, new friend, new life. Kahit kamukha pa yun ni Melmar. Still, he is not Melmar.”

“Kamukha ni Melmar?”

“Opo. Kambal po niya galing London.”

“Anak, hinay hinay ka huh? Hindi masaya ang rebound.”

“Rebound? Grabe naman kayo, Pa. Friend lang.”

“Sabi mo eh.”

To Schai, of course he is not rebound. He is just a friend. Someone who never knows a single thing about Kiko will help her move on. Besides, everytime she’s with Nadine, Melmar and everyone, they only bring back the memories she had with Kiko. It’s drving her crazy. It’s time to move on. Kiko had moved on. It’s her turn.

Did he really move on? Or he was just trying to convince her that he did? Schai opened up her Facebook then typed in the search bar Kiko’s profile. He really did move on. The girl he’s with in his profile pic looks like someone he will really date. They really good together. Schai noticed a tear was falling down her cheek. She wiped it dry and promised herself to be happy again. She could not longer be stuck in the past.

“Basta, wala ka ng choice, Schai. Sasabihin na ni Melmar kay Kiko ang totoo.”, Nadine told Schai.

“I know that Nadine and I both agreed with you to not go into details with Kiko but it’s been three months and you’re still in agony. Kiko deserves the truth.”

“Okay! Please! Pero ako ang magsasabi hindi si Melmar, hindi kayo! Ako!”

“Okay I am texting Melmar now that we are waiting for his go signal to call,” Nadine agreed.

In Spain.

Melmar is uneasy. He does not know how to tell Kiko that he is about to talk to the only girl who broke his heart, Schai.

Melmar and Kiko are in the garden, having breakfast. Suddenly, Melmar thought of a way to talk let Kiko and Schai talk. He sent a text message to Nadine.

“You may call after 1 minute and let Schai talk to Kiko straight away. No need for an introduction. Kiko will pick up the phone, make sure it’s Schai he talks to straight away.”

“Kuha lang ako water, bro. Pag tumawag si Nadine, pakisagot huh?”

Melmar went inside and Kiko was left all alone. He thought that she better not talk or ask about Schai because he will surely not respond.

Less than a minute later, the phone rang.

“Kiko here. Melmar went inside to get a drink.”, Kiko answered.

Silence.

“Hello!”, Kiko said.

“Uhhhmmm.. Kiko, this is Schai.”

Silence.

“I know that you probably don’t want to hear anything from me but I want to explain myself. I want us to be friends again.”

Kiko thought that Schai is being unrealistic. Friends? After what she did? After reading Schai’s goodbye letter, it meant a bucket full of tears and a shattered world for him. So, the answer is NO. They can never be friends again. He only had to make the situation appear serene as if he’s not hurting anymore. He lost his sense of worth to Schai once, he’s never losing it again.

“Well yeah, I actually did not expect to hear from you but it’s cool. You don’t need to explain anything. Really. It’s long been over and done with. I’m in a relationship right now and this time, I want to make it last. So…uuhhhmmmm…” Kiko was cut short by Schai.

Melmar was already hiding behind the door. Letting Kiko be. If he and Nadine could not bring the two back together, atleast, they’ll get the closure they deserve.

“Right. I am happy to hear that. And I guess your….. uh…. girl…. girlfriend would appreciate it if..”, Schai could barely say the words.

“Yes, if we end this conversation now. If you know what I mean..”, Kiko composed himself to sheer those words to her.

“Yah, I guess this is it? Uhhhmm.. Bye, Kiko and………..  yeah……… bye!”

“Goodbye.”

Kiko put the phone down and sat down.

“Mar, you can go out now.”, Kiko exclaimed, he knew all along Melmar was there.

“Sorry bro, I couldn’t think of anything else, eh. You guys needed to talk talaga.”

“I appreciate the gesture, I know you meant well. I just hope that, as my friend, please just go along with what you’ve heard. Can you promise me that?”

“Sure, bro.”, Melmar assured Kiko. Afterall, he has been through a lot. He needed this. To move on and get on with his life. MElmar could only wish Kiko well.

Melmar stayed for another week and made sure that his entire stay would be as fun as possible. They went clubbing, they went to the beach, they drank themselves to death, they enjoyed and treated each day as if it was the last. Melmar made it certain that Kiko will never be lonely again. He intended to bring Kiko back to his old self. The funny one, the natural comedian, the happy-go-lucky one, the heartthrob, the heartbreaker. He’d rather think of him that way than someone who sulks in one corner.

Melmar was welcomed by Nadine, Schia, Arkin and Rose at the airport. And since that day, they never talked about Kiko in front of Schai. All they did was hook Schai up with other guys to help her forget about Kiko. They would engage her into blind dates. Only, to no avail. Schai believes that he does not need another man to make her okay.

Schai slotted herself in so many things. She joined her dad in putting up a computer shop. She took up summer classes to make herself busy. In the morning, she goes to her summer classes and at night, she would take turns with her dad at the computer shop. Her mind became too occupied that she’s nearly forgetting about Kiko.

Kiko, on the other hand, started moving on by accepting the job his mom’s friend was offering him. A print ad model. He thought  this is one way to keep him busy. Otherwise, he will just be at home talking to his sisters or at school, learning Spanish. Atleast, being a print ad model, you need not to speak. All you need to do is pose and that’s it, you get paid. He enjoyed himself too much and his boss adored him. They worked on his documents and was able to get him a working visa. From then on, projects bombard him. His biggest break so far was to endorse the comeback of the famous “Nenuco Chip”.  Nenuco is a Spanish cologne line that has long been established. They decided to bring back the ever famous “Nenuco Chip” and they settled on making Kiko the new face of it, along with a hot 18 year old Spanish girl named Jojo.

Will Kiko date her? What’s in store for Schai? Is it a new love?

Kiko rooted for Melmar when he fetch him from the airport.

“I am so glad to see you, man! Parang lalo kang pumuti, ah!”, Melmar exclaimed as he gave his friend a hug.

“I’m so glad to see you, too! Kaya nga eh! Nagbibilad naman ako sa araw dito pero walang nangyayari, eh

“Ganun ba? Okay lang yan, asset mo naman yan, eh!”

Both drove home and Kiko showed Melmar the guest room.

“Take a rest muna. Mamaya after dinner, I’ll take you out with my friends here. We’ll go to this amazing bar, they have live bands there.”

“Sige, pare. Salamat!”

Kiko was about to shut the door when..

“Ay bro, may nagpapabigay.”, Melmar called out.

Melmar received a call from Bart to visit Kiko in Spain. Eleanor asked Bart to send any of his friends over after she heard that Kiko had a crash about Schai. Ofcourse, next to Schai, Melmar is the closest to Kiko.

Kiko went straight to his room, plugged the USB in his laptop and there he watched Schai giving him a message.  She hasn’t changed a bit. Beautiful as ever. Only, if you’re someone close to her, you will notice that she has completely lost that glow on her eyes.

“Hi bey.. Kiko! How are you? I’m sure you’re having a blast there. Uhhhhmmm.. I wanted to write you a letter but Melmar and Nadine said that it’s best if I send you this video, instead. It’s more personal. .. I really do not know what to say”, Schai’s voice is shaking, “Or I have so much to say but I can’t figure out where to begin,” Schai is almost choking, “I guess let me start by saying I miss you? Yeah, I miss you. Terribly. I auditioned for this singing contest in school for summer and I got in! I sang “Get Here” by Oleta Adams and I don’t know if it’s right to tell you that I dedicated it to you. Every word of it. I think about you all the time. Never a day passed that I didn’t think of you. Nadine’s so funny, she gets pissed off everytime she hears my phone alarms. I put it in a 12midnight alarm. You know, to relieve the happy memories. I go to the backyard everytime, imagining you’re there. I don’t know I guess I am going crazy. But yeah, I have no right to really complain if I feel this way because I asked for this. And I am so sorry! I am sorry I chickened out. If I didn’t get so terrified to say goodbye to you, I could’ve hugged you for the last time. You must hate me horribly right now, don’t you? I don’t blame you. I hate myself, too. I hate myself more than you do. I hope one day, you’ll find the heart to forgive me. I love you so much and I miss you but what I did-it was something I just had to do. For you. For us. …….”

Schai broke down and the video ended with Nadine and Rose comforting Schai as she breaks down.

Kiko went numb for awhile. God! How he misses her! But the last part of the video just made him hate her even more. She did it for them? How the hell would she know what was best for Kiko? She didn’t even ask if he was okay with it. She left him with no choice. No choice! That video still didn’t explain why she did what she did. It’s still doesn’t make sense. They were just okay then the next morning, she left a letter and said goodbye.

Kiko and Melmar had dinner with Eleanor and the rest of the family at home then the two went to meet Kiko’s friends. Melmar, being a natural gregarious person blended in the new crowd so quickly. Everyone was having a marvelous time plus the band playing was so good-everyone adored them.

“Do you have any requests? We can ask our guests from that table”, the band leader said point at Kiko’s table.

Melmar was quick to grab the microphone and said..

“I request my friend, Kiko, to sing for us. Just FYI, guys, he is a very good singer.”

Everyone cheered.

Kiko was hesitant at first but the crowd just won’t stop chanting his name.

Kiko! Kiko! Kiko!

Kiko went up to the stage, whispered to the band what song to play.

You called me from the room in your hotel

All full of romance for someone that you met

And telling me how sorry you were, leaving so soon

And that you miss me sometimes when you’re alone in your room

Do I feel lonely too?

You have no right to ask me how I feel

You have no right to speak to me so kind

We can’t go on just holding on to time

Now that we’re living separate lives

Well I held on to let you go

And if you lost your love for me, well you never let it show

There was no way to compromise

So now we’re living (living)

Separate lives

Kiko was not able to finish the song. He went back to the table, forcing a fake smile. Melmar knew he meant the song from his heart. He feels for his friend.

“Kiko, let’s go grab some fresh air.”

Kiko followed Melmar outside. They sat in the gutter just across the bar.

“We’ve been friends for awhile, right?”, Melmar asked.

“Yeah! And for a long time.”, Kiko smiled.

“I’ve always been honest to you. You used to tell me everything. Even the gruesome details of how your dates turned out before- you told me all that. Nagtago ka lang sakin, once. Alam mo na kung ano yun pero dahil na-hospital ka, pasalamat ka! Pinatawad kita. Hindi ka pa pala nagso-sorry, ah!”, Melmar chuckled, trying his best to make the conversation as light as possible. Afterall, he knew no one ever opened up the Schai issue to Kiko.

“Ikaw talaga! Sorry, bro. Pero I guess it does not have merit now. We’re done even before it started.”

“Sana lang ngayon, sabihin mo din sakin ang totoo.”

“Huh? What truth?”

“The truth about what you feel.”

“Feel about what?”, Kiko said, trying to act as if he doesn’t know what Melmar was talking about.

“Shut the front door! You know what I am talking about!”

“Okay. Her?”
“Yeah, her!”

“How is she?”

“She’s fine.”

“Good for her.”

“No, she’s not fine! Ano ba, ikaw tinatanong ko?!”

“She’s not fine?”

“Masusuntok na kita! Kilala na kita bata pa lang tayo! Kaya wag mo na itago ang nararamdaman mo! Pag-usapan natin!”

“Wala na sa akin, yun! She was just one of the girls. Parang hindi mo ko kilala, bro!”

The conversation ended there. Melmar couldn’t squeeze out anything from Kiko. He wants to maintain this sturdy image of his and Melmar wouldn’t take that away from him. He knows that he gave her everything he could. Even given up things he used to do for her. It must hurt like hell. Melmar thought of calling Nadine when Kiko went inside.

“If you care about Schai, you have to tell me what really her reason was so I can pass it on to Kiko. Coz me, I want to help Kiko out. He deserves the truth.”

“Huh? We promised Schai…”, Nadine said worriedly.

“I know! But it’s time to put an end on this. Comfort tayo ng comfort sa dalawa, wala naman tayong ginagawa.”

“Okay, eto yun..”

Nadine went on with what happened and Melmar plans to tell Kiko soon. When? He still does not know but definitely before his one-week vacation ends. 

“This will be your room, anak! I hope you like it. I know it is not as big as your room back home but it’s just as cozy. Don’t you agree?”, Eleanor asked Kiko after she showed him his room.

“Yeah.. But I don’t know if this house will be as cozy when your daughters arrive.”, Kiko jeered.

“Ofcourse they will love you. What’s not to love about you?”

“I don’t know, Mom. We grew up in different cultures. They grew up here in Spain. With you. I just think they’ll treat me as an outsider.”

It took Kiko and his sisters a month to be comfy with each other. Kiko adjusted so quick that he became a constant big brother. He would drive them to school, teach them their homeworks-to name a few. He kept himself busy with taking care of his sisters and enrolled himself in a part time day school for Spanish class. He made friends with few Spanish guys, dated Spanish girls, he is indeed having the time of his life. But inspite of these all, he misses home. Well yeah, he misses his dad, his room, his car, his friends and no matter how many times he denies it-he misses Schai. He wonders what she’s up to these days. When 12 midnight strikes, does it still affect her?

Back home.

“Schai, remember, you can’t fail a single subject if you want to be enrolled here next year. And please will you stop that 12midnight alarm? It doesn’t help”, Nadine told Schai.

Schai gave her blank reaction. Rose, Nadine and Melmar have been trying their best to divert Schai’s attention for almost three months now but to no avail. She puts an alarm on her phone every 12midnight and proceed to the sorhouse’s backyard, alone. There, she would reminisce the times when she and Kiko spent quality time together. She wanted those moments back. And more often than not, she would cry herself to sleep. No one could take away the pain. Even her friends’ efforts are put to waste because they don’t work. Nothing they could ever say to make her change the way she feels. She misses Kiko. Period.

Meanwhile, Jun is working in a real estate and trying to make a fortune for him and Schai. Everything is going well except Kiko is not around so to Schai, nothing is ever okay. She’s miserable.

“Haaynaku.. Alis na nga ako! May date pa kami ni Melmar. Umayos ka na Schai, huh? Hindi na nakakatuwa yang pag-emo mo!”, Nadine said.

Nadine and Melmar joint forces to help Schai get on with her life without expecting they’re already falling in love with each other. Schai is happy for them but it just makes her miss Kiko even more. She longs for him every single day and not a day had pass that she doesn’t think of him.

In Spain.

Kiko sat infront of his laptop for an hour trying to figure out what he wanted to write. He feels like he is in a crowded room, screaming, but nobody even cares to look up.  

Dearest Schai,

How could you not give me a chance to say goodbye to you? It’s not like I want to say goodbye. The truth is I DO NOT WANT TO SAY GOODBYE TO YOU! Ever! But you left me. With no choice.

Here I am sitting in my room, alone. Missing you. Wondering what you’ve been up to since I’m away. Are you dating Melmar yet?

Well if you wanna know about me, I’m fine. I made friends. My sisters are awesome. Mom’s been taking care of me. I’m learning Spanish and yeah, I’m learning. But sometimes, I miss Dad. And the life I have back there. My life with you. I miss you every minute of every single day.

Whatever. You blew me off. You left me. And I hate you for it.

Kiko closed his laptop and marveled why he even bothered writing that email. There’s no way he is sending it. He will move on and forget about Schai, the only girl who broke his heart.

Back home at school, Schai auditioned for the singing contest so she can make up for her grades.

“Schai, what’s your audition song?”, the instructor asked.

“Hit it.”, Schai pointed her finger at Adrian, her personal guitarist.

♪♫You can reach me by railway,

you can reach me by trailway

You can reach me on an airplane,

you can reach me with your mind

You can reach me by caravan,

cross the desert like an Arab man

I don’t care how you get here, just- get here if you can

You can reach me by sailboat,

climb a tree and swing rope to rope

Take a sled and slide down slow,

into these arms of mine

You can jump on a speedy colt,

cross the border in a blaze of hope

I don’t care how you get here, just- get here if you can♪♫

Schai lost the words for awhile. She was already sobbing until she pictured Kiko watching her and felt his undying support for her when she’s on stage.

♪♫There are hills and mountains between us

Always something to get over If I had my way,

then surely you would be closer I need you closer

You can windsurf into my life,

take me up on a carpet ride

You can make it in a big balloon,

but you better make it soon

You can reach me by caravan,

cross the desert like an Arab man

I don’t care how you get here,

just- get here if you can I don’t care, I dont care,

I need you right here right now

I need you right here, right now,

right by my side (yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah)

I don’t care how you get here, just- get here if you can.♪♫

Schai was able to finish her song with flying colors. She wishes Kiko was there to watch her. He could have been so proud.

“Pasok ka na, Schai! Sure yun! Nakita mo ba reaction ng judges? Lima lang kukunin diba?”, Adrian chuckled.

“Sana. Sige uwi muna ako sa sorhouse. Thanks huh?”, Schai said with her weak voice and stormed off.

“Tingnan mo to? Manggamit..”, Adrian shook his head as he headed out.

Back in Spain.

“Kiko! My classmate’s elder sister has a huge crush on you!”, Kiko’s sister chuckled.

“Uhhhhmmm.. Why am I not surprise?”, Kiko sniggered with his usual signature-major-hunk-on-campus grin.

“Will you take her out for a date? Please? Pretty please?”

“Nah, I’m too focused learning Spanish for the meantime.”, Kiko sniggered.

“You just have not gotten over Schai, yet.”, his sister smirked.

“Huh?”, Kiko marveled confusedly.

How the hell she knew about Schai? Kiko never talked about her. Never did he mention her name. He did not even tell his mom why he decided straight away to go with her in Spain. It was an open secret nobody, not even his dad, talked about. They knew he’s in pain. They knew she left him but no one had the guts to talk to him about it. Kiko handled it pretty well. He flew to the Spain without saying goodbye to any of his friends. Not even Melmar. Eleanor was the one who went to the school to withdraw all his classes and brought with her all the credentials needed to start anew in Spain. Melmar went back to the hospital the night Schai left and Kiko mentioned that he’s gonna be living with his mom but did not mention when.

“Sorry I accidentally spotted your supposed email to her,”.

“Just never mention her name to me, ever! Please! To me, she never existed!”

Melmar will visit Kiko in Spain. What will happen?

Schai decided to visit his dad because of Kiko convincing her that he only did it because of love. Kiko said that if the same thing happens to them, he would also find someone to blame. He would also not allow Schai to die just like that. That way, he said it is easier to move on. Schai knows that Kiko is just being the gentleman that he is. Afterall, Jun is her dad. No matter how bad he can be, it doesn’t change the fact that he is her dad and she has to look after him. Kiko also decided not to press charges against him.

“Alam ko na mas naging tatay pa ko kila Caleb and Carlo. Pero eto, iniwan nila ako. Kaya ikaw Schai, ituloy mo lang ang buhay mo na wala ako. Wala na ko naibigay sa’yo kundi puro sama ng loob. Pati si Kiko na naging mabait sa atin, sa’yo, nadamay  ko pa. Malaking bagay na pumunta ka dito. Ang buong akala ko hindi ka na magpapakita. Hiyang hiya ako sa’yo.”

Schai was crying so hard. She couldn’t believe that her dad can say such things. She gave her dad a hug and said she has forgiven him and that Kiko has also decided to withdraw the charges. Jun promised that he will use the chance given to him to be a better man.

Schai was anxious to see Kiko. She went back straight to the hospital to give him the good news. Kiko always tell her that he wants her to be happy. Now, she is truly happy. When Schai was about to enter Kiko’s room, Eleanor called her attention and asked if they can have tea somewhere.

“Schai, I wanna thank you for looking after my son while I was away.”, Eleanor started the conversation. Schai was a bit hesitant but she smiles at her. Being tagged as someone who takes care of Kiko is music to her ears.

“I love him. Hindi naman po favor po yun.”, Schai said.

“He loves you, too. Among everyone here, he loves you the most. Sandali ka lang nawala, hinahanap ka na.”, Eleanor said firmly.

“Talaga po? Ako din naman po siya na po ang pinaka importanteng tao sa buhay  ko.”, Schai affirmed.

“Matalino ka naman atang bata, Schai. I’ll go straight to the point. Kiko is really dependent on you. He was shot, he almost died, but he decided not to press charges. Because of who? Hindi naman dahil sa father mo yun. Dahil sa’yo yun.”, Eleanor hissed.

“Alam ko po yun. Kaya po kahit habang buhay kopo pagsilbihan si Kiko, okay lang sa akin.”, Schai sobbed.

“Pero mali eh! Dapat diba pagbayaran ang ginawa sa kanya? Now, I have decided to take Kiko with me when I go back to Spain. As soon as kaya na niya bumiyahe, we’re leaving.”

“Po? Pumayag na po si Kiko?”, Schai asked confusedly.

“Hindi ko pa siya natatanong. I will tell him, not ask. And if you really love him, after we talk here, you will talk to him and break up with him.”

Schai couldn’t say a word. She was crying so hard. She was almost choking.

“If you really love my son, you’ll do the same sacrifice he did for you when he decided to withdraw the charges so your father can start a new life. He needs to start anew, too. Mga bata pa kayo. Kung kayo, kayo talaga. But right now, I want him to find his place in this world. Habang andiyan ka, wala siya plano sa buhay nya. ”

“Mahal ko po si Kiko.”

“Alam ko, kaya nga I’m asking you to prove it. Tell him you’re breaking up with him. You also do not want to destroy his relationship with his mom, right?”

“Paano po ako?”

“That’s so selfish of you, darling. I don’t know. Kiko already gave your dad a chance to repent. It’s your job to make sure you and your dad live a good life. I will take care of my son. Who knows, years from now, when you meet again, kayo pa din.”

“Magagalit po yun sakin. Usapan namin walang iwanan.”

“Usapan niyo yan before your dad put a bullet in my son’s heart. Ibang usapan na to. We both love him. I’ll make a sacrifice, too. My other kids do not know I have a son here. But I’ll face it. Coz I love him. My son  thinks you are his responsibility. He’s too young to have a responsibility. He has to see the rest of the world first. For someone who claims who loves him so much, you will understand.”

Eleanor left the table without giving Schai a chance to speak.

Schai brainstormed for an hour and finally found the courage to enter Kiko’s room.”,

“Hi baby! What took you so long?”, Kiko greeted her.

“Huh? Kakagaling ko lang kay Papa.”, Schai answered as she prepared Kiko’s food.

“I didn’t eat, yet. Inantay kita.”, Kiko chuckled.

“Prepare ko lang”, Schai’s voice was already shaking. Silent tears fall down her cheeks but she wipes them at once so Kiko wouldn’t notice. She will tell him right after they have their last dinner together.

Schai was about to talk to Kiko when Melmar, Nadine, Rose, Arkin, Aj and Joanna arrived. They brought pizza, flowers, balloons. Everyone was having a great time. It seemed like a party. Schai decided to grab some fresh air outside. Rose and Nadine followed her.

“Wala naman ako ibang kaibigan. Si Kiko lang. Pwede ba maging friends ko muna kayo tonight? I feel like I’m gonna explode”, Schai  was bursting into tears.

“Schai, you know I am your friend.”, Rose held Schai’s hand.

“Ako din, Schai. Kahit naman dati na ginamit kita to get through Kiko, tinuring na kitang kaibigan nun, eh.”, Nadine asserted.

Schai told the girls the conversation she had with Kiko’s mom and both girls agreed that she has no other way out. Rose advised her that even if she fights for him, Eleanor will do everything in her power to break the two of them apart. Nadine said that if she fights fire with fire, she will end up starting a war with Eleanor. She will lose her chance to be with Kiko even years from now. Schai thought the girls are right. She would just have to wait for the right time when they can freely be together.

As soon as the gang left the hospital. Schai was uneasy. Everytime she opens her mouth to speak, she lost the words.

“I’m really tired. And the pills they’re giving me are making me feel so groggy. I’ll go to sleep after one minute.”, Kiko said.

“Why after one minute pa?” Schai asked.

“Kasi 11:59 pa lang. I don’t want to let 12 midnight pass without telling you I love you.”

Schai hugged Kiko so tight-he couldn’t breathe.

“Ouch!” Kiko chuckled and did a countdown.

“5.. 4.. 3.. 2… 1.. I love you, baby! Goodnight!”, Kiko said.

“I love you more than you love me. Good night baby!”, Schai blubbered.

The next morning, everything seemed normal to Kiko. Only, Schia wasn’t there. Schai waited for the maid to arrive and handed her a letter. A letter for Kiko.

“What’s this?”, Kiko asked.

“Sabi ni Ma’am Schai, bigay ko daw po sa inyo pagkagising nyo. Sir, dala ko na po ang breakfast niyo. Kakain na po ba kayo? Sabi ng Mommy mo, siya na daw magdadala ng lunch niyo mamaya.”.

The maid handed Kiko a piece of paper and he read it straight away.

My dearest Kiko,

                My mind is just as cluttered as my heart. I didn’t want to stay away from you but it seems that it’s the only way that we can determine what we want in our lives. The moment you are reading this, I’m already out in the world, exploring it. I want you to do the same when you get discharged from the hospital.

                Baby, I loved you with all my heart and I still do and I will still love you tomorrow and everyday in between. I will never stop loving you. One day, you will thank me for leaving. I do not want to be a burden to you anymore. You have done so much for me. It’s time I return the favor. This is the only sacrifice I can do for you. To let you be. To let you go. Because I know you’re free, you will be able to do the things you couldn’t do when I’m around.

                I am sorry that this came as a surprise to you. I didn’t realize about it, then. But I realize it now. We need time apart. Both of us are still young. I go find what I can do with my life and my dad and you, all you gotta do is just make use of what you have. Everything you need is right infront of you. Take advantage of it.

                Someday, we will meet again and by that time, I will be the same Schai you’ve loved only stronger and sovereign. I just hope that when that “someday” comes, you will still be mine. I have to be myself first before I can be your Schai. Time and distance don’t have any power against what we once shared. This feeling of melancholy is too much to bear. But my love for you and your love for me will keep us going. You will be the one and only man I’ll ever love. Take care of yourself. I will be here, cheering you on, in silence.

No goodbyes-just see you again.

Yours forever,

 Schai

Stay tuned for Chapter 18 to know how Kiko will take it!

“Si Schai hindi talaga bumibisita dito.”, Jun told Caleb and Carlo.

“Nabbabantay po siya kay Kiko. Hanggang ngayon comatose pa din.”, Caleb said.

“Kasi naman eh! Bakit ka namaril! Hindi naman kailangan eh!”, Carlo jeered.

“Wag na tayo magsisihan. Puntahan nyo na lang ang kapatid niyo at sabihin nyo bisitahin ako dito. Sa susunod nyo na balik dito, magdala naman kayo ng damit ko.” Jun requested.

“Uhhhmmm.. Alam ko po na maganda po ang pakikitungo ninyo sa amin kahit po si Mama nagging salbahe po sa sarili ninyong anak. Pero po, bata pa po kami ni Carlo, hindi po pwede na mabansagan kami na may kapamilyang bilanggo.”, Caleb confessed.

“Derechahin mo na kasi! Jun, hindi na kami babalik dito. Kailagan mo pagbayaran ang ginawa mo pero hindi pwede na kasa-kasama mo kami ni Caleb. Maghahanap kami trabaho at mamumuhay ng mapayapa. Kasi yun ang gusto ng Mama namin para samin.”, Carlo asserted.

Before Jun could even say a word, Caleb and Carlo already turned their backs on him. Now, he is alone. He does not know what to do. Schai will take Kiko’s side no matter what happens and he only deserves it. How he wish he could apologise for everything that he has done and be granted a clean slate but reality bites. He may rot in hell behind bars.

Meanwhile.

The doctors said that Kiko moving his finger is just a matter of reflex. Though it is a good sign, they still couldn’t guarantee that he will not come back in cardiac arrest.

Bart decided to call Kiko’s mom and have her come over. When Bart and her ex-wife-Eleanor divorced, Bart was granted full custody of Kiko. Eleanor flew to Spain and would only visit Kiko once a year or once in two years. Kiko spent so little of his time with his mom but they are really close. They are in constant communication and his mom would ask him if he wants to live with her and her husband. Kiko would always refuse. Bart was able to give him the life he could never resist. Besides, Eleanor is the rigorous type. The way Kiko has been living his life-all the girls and being the party animal that he was-Eleanor would never allow it.

Six days have passed but the best thing Kiko could do for everyone is move his finger. Sometimes you would hear him groan but too weak you could not even hear it if you’re standing inches away from his bed. Schai would be the only one who constantly hears it. She never left his side. She only does when she has to take a shower and the maid would take turns. But she would be as quick as possible. Everyday she would talk to him. Her never ending story would always bring her to tears.

“Melmar told me he locked himself in his room last night and played all your favorite songs. Michael Buble, Adele, Shinee, XLR8 – he played it so loud the floor shook. And you know what? Nadine and Rose went to church today and lit 8 candles for you-your football number. Your dad said he will do everything to have you back-even considered quitting smoking. And your mom! She will arrive soon. I’m a little scared to meet her again so when she arrives, will you be with me? Alive and kicking? You know how she feels about me, she used to send me away everytime you invite me to your gathering when she comes and visits. Only this time, I can never give in to her wishes. I’m not going anywhere because I want to make sure that the first thing you see when you open your eyes is me. Also babe, our teacher sent me the test papers so I can answer it from home. They knew I’m never coming back to school as long as you are still here. Lifeless. “, this time Schai’s voice is already shaking. “So will you come back soon, please?”, Schai finally burst into tears. “I couldn’t do a single thing without you. My world is shattered without you. Hey look, it’s almost 12midnight, aren’t you suppose to be excited? Since you got here, this is the only time that we will be alone at 12midnight. Your dad went home to rest. Our friends came to visit this afternoon and all decided to come back tomorrow. Tick tock tick tock, babe!”, Schai forced her usual fake smile as tears falling down her cheeks.

Schai rested her head at the side of Kiko’s bed and held his hand, squeezed it as if she was secretly waking him up. She fell asleep and was half awakened by a hushed voice. She thought she could recognize it.

“Water.. Can I have some water?”

Schai couldn’t believe her eyes. She was just fully awakened by the alarm of her phone. It’s 12 midnight! And Kiko is awake!

Schai quickly grabbed a glass of water and rallied around Kiko. Then she pushed the buzzer to have the nurses and doctors over.

The next minute, Bart was already there talking to the doctor while Kiko keeps on coercing himself to open his eyes. As predicted, he is still enervated. But even if he is, he would reach out at Schai’s hand and make sure he holds it from time to time. Schai would readily oblige and would squeeze his hand back.

“Schai.. His condition has stabilized but it will take time for him to recover. His mom will be here this week to take care of him. You can stay if you want. You can take turns, whatever. I promised his mom that she calls the shots this time. So it’s up to her how she wants to take care of him. After what happened, I learnt that time is short. So I give them the time that they need or the time that they needed but I was too selfish to give it to them”, Bart hissed.

Schai nodded.

Bart gave Kiko a kiss on the forehead and left the hospital. Schai quickly went back beside Kiko after she walked Bart to the corridor. Kiko was looking at her and constrained a smile. Schai smiled back.

“You need anything? You wanna eat?”, she asked.

“No… Just stay here with me and don’t stop holding my hand.”, Kiko said faintly.

“Okay.”, Schai grabbed his hand and rubbed it on her cheek.

“Ilang days na tayo dito”, Kiko asked.

“Six days.”

“Okay. So I’ve been asleep for six days. That explains that headache”.

“I’ll go ask the doctor if they can give you anything.”

“Nah, don’t bother. Just stay here with me. Besides, I don’t want to take another set of medicines. Thank you. So, you’ve been here for six days?”

“Yep.”

“Naligo ka naman?”, Kiko, being a funny man that he is, can always turn a dramatic moment into a blissful one.

“Kapal! Ikaw nga diyan hindi naligo, eh!”, Schai exclaimed.

“Duh.. the nurses have been keeping my hygiene intact, I know.”

Schai laughed. Perhaps her first laugh of the week. Schai hugged Kiko as she murmurs..

“I love you! I love you! I love you! And I miss you!”

“I love you more. I came back for you. I heard you talking to me. I felt you. If not for you, I wouldn’t be here right now. Thank you for saving my life.”, Kiko blubbered.

“Don’t thank me. I just thank you for saving mine.”, Schai avowed.

What happens when Eleanor arrives? Stay tuned for Chapter 17! Soon!

Five houseguards were not able to stop Jun from putting a bullet into Kiko’s heart. It was meant for Bart but Kiko was quick to catch it, he tried to stop Bart from pulling the trigger. He was too late.

Police were everywhere. They were able to catch Jun and he showed no remorse for what he did. He thought they only deserved it. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. 

Kiko was rushed to the hospital but he is in no stable condition.

At school.

Schai can only see from afar the guy in the campus gate. She thought it was Caleb, fighting with the security guards, forcing them to let him in.

“Schai!!! Ayaw ako papasukin!”, Caleb called.

Schai went to him.

“Bakit ka nandito? Pinapahiya niyo talaga ako?”, Schai asked.

“Yung papa mo nakakulong.”, Caleb affirmed.

“Binaril niya si..”, Caleb paused. Not sure if he goes on or not.

“Sino?! Sino?!”, Schai asked.

“Si Ki…ko..”, Caleb blubbered.

Schai felt that the world turned upside down.

“Gino-good time mo lang ako, Caleb, di ba? Diba? Sabihin mo nagbibiro ka!”, Schai bursted into tears.

“Schai, lagi ka namin ginogood time at sana nga isa to sa mga yun pero hindi eh!”, Caleb answered.

“Hindi ko siya mapapatawad! Mabulok siya dun sa bilangguan!”, Schai hissed.

Schai asked Rose to take her to the hospital. Schai was in tears during the entire drive.

“Schai, calm down. I’m sure Kiko will be fine.”, Rose comforted Schai.

Among everyone, Rose was the only person who understood why Schai and Kiko had to keep their relationship a secret. Afterall, she and Aki went through the same thing.

“What if he dies today? Or tomorrow. Kahit next month, next year, kahit kelan pa yan, Rose. Hindi ko kaya. Hindi ko talaga kaya walang Kiko!”, Schai cried harder. Rose kept quiet and let Schai cry her heart out. 

Schai tried to think of the good times so when she reaches the hospital, she will still wear that smile Kiko loves to see. But no! She couldn’t help it. Kiko is the only person in her life. 
Even before Rose could stop the car, Schai was already on her way out. She went straight to the concierge and asked where Kiko was then headed straight there, not caring that she has companion. 

When she opened the room, there he was. Underneath the bandage was the beautiful man she loves. 

“The doctor said he’s in a coma. His condition has not stabilized yet. We can only hope for the best.”, Bart was behind Schai. He tried to comfort her but Schai wouldn’t stop crying. 

“Papa can rot behind bars and pay for his mistakes! Kiko, just wake up!”, Schai cried even harder. 

She wanted to shake Kiko and have him open his eyes but she could only rest her face against his. He couldn’t die! He has too much to live for! How can someone so perfect and so special be in a situation like this? He’s too well-loved to be seriously hurt, let alone, die. 

“He can die?!”, Schai asked Bart.

She never spoke to Bart that way. Usually, she is polite and too careful with the tone of her voice. This time, she was screaming at the top of her lungs. She was going ballistic. 

“He can die, but he won’t.”, Bart said, his voice was shaking. Bart can only convince himself and make believe. This time, that’s all he is holding on to. 

Schai never left Kiko’s side. She has been in the hospital for two days, waiting for Kiko to gain consciousness. Melmar, Nadine and the rest of the gang visited Kiko and tried to talk to him but to no avail. Melmar and Nadine already apologized to Schai for what happened and told her that they don’t mind her and Kiko being together. It does not matter to Schai now. They can go against them all they want, unpledge her from Pi Beta Alpha, her teachers can fail her from not attending classes-she does not care at all. All she cares and hopes for is for Kiko to regain consciousness. 

Kiko’s senses are very much awake but his body fails to respond. Day by day, Kiko’s friends would take turns and talk to him. The doctor said that even if Kiko is in a coma, he will be able to hear.

“Bro, sorry for everything . Gumising ka lang, promise ko sa’yo ako ang best man mo sa kasal niyo ni Schai. Boring dito na wala ka. Walang maingay. Wala nagreremind samin pag mali kami. “, Melmar sobbed. 

“Kiko, pag gising mo, hindi na kita haharassin. Friends na lang. Promise.”, Nadine joked but with tears in her eyes. 

“Dude, sana bumalik ka na! Idol pa naman kita!”, Arkin begged.

All his friends would come by to talk to Kiko in a daily basis. Schai’s right. Kiko is too well loved. Kiko has a strong personality that sometimes, he comes in too strong into the life of other people. He may sometimes be annoying but only because most of the time - he is right. He can be a brat and all, but he is not Kiko if he keeps quiet in one corner. You would hear him complain most of the time but he is the most honest person you’ll ever know. You’ll have friends who make you feel good. Compliment your dress, your new bag, your new car, your new scarf. Kiko is not that kind of friend. He is the kind of friend that you’ll ask for an opinion when you want to go somewhere important because he will surely tell you if you’ll look ridiculous. When he gives you compliment, he means it. That’s why the whole campus is in distress. Everyone awaits for his return.

“Please baby. Wake up. Hindi lang ako nag aantay sa’yo. At alam mo ba, pagbalik mo, Nadine and Melmar promised to let us be. Andito sila araw araw for you. Marami kami nagmamahal sa’yo. Pero mas mahal kita! Basta, please. Gumising ka na! Nagpapa-miss ka ba?! Miss na miss na kita! Hindi ka pa ba pagod kakahiga diyan?”, Schai never seemed to get tired of crying though she forced fake smiles in between her sentences. Her eyes are already red and swollen from crying. She does not sleep. She hardly eats. 

Kiko finally, moved his finger. It was a very simple gesture but to Schai, it meant the world.

Schai and Kiko are both in the wake of Lily. Jun did nothing but gave cold shoulders to Kiko. He made him feel that it’s their family’s fault that Lily died.

“Why is Jun not talking to me?”, Kiko asked Schai confusedly.

“I don’t know. Maybe he is still in shock. “, Schai told him as he grabbed his hand and squeezed it tightly. Schai knows her dad’s sentiments. Early on, she already argued with him explaining that Bart and most especially Kiko have nothing to do with Lily’s death. She was sick. But knowing Jun, he wouldn’t listen. He believes what he wants to believe and blames his not-so-fortunate life to other people.

Minutes later, Bart arrived at the wake.

“Ano ginagawa mo dito?”, Jun screamed at him leaving everyone at the wake stunned.

“Nakikiramay ako, Pare.”, Bart expressed his sympathy.

“Hindi ko kailangan ang pakikiramay mo!”, Jun cried out as he drew closer to Bart, wanted to get physical with him. Caleb, Schai and Carlo stopped Jun from his breakdown and just asked Kiko to bring his dad out. Kiko and Bart left the wake together. Schai went quickly to his dad.

“Ano ba? Hindi ka na nahiya! Yung taong pinagtabuyan mo, yun ang mga taong bumuhay satin! Sakin!”, Schai cried. “Alam ko nasasaktan ka. Kaya kahit hindi kami close ni Lily andito ako. Para sa’yo! Pero hindi tama na sisihin mo si Kiko at Daddy niya! May sakit si Lily!”

“Kung hindi tayo pinagdamutan ng Kiko mo at ng tatay niya, buhay pa sana Mama namin!’, Caleb yelled at Schai.

“Tama! Mama niyo! Mama niyo yan diba? Bakit hindi kayo ni Carlo ang naghanap ng paraan mabili gamot ni Lily? Ang lalaki ng katawan niyo, wala naman kayo ginawa! Pag aaral ko sila na sumagot. Ang pera na binibigay ko sa inyo dito, galing din kanila yun!”, Schai explained, in tears.

“Lumayas ka dito ngayon, Schai! Nalaman din namin na wala kang pakialam sa pamilyang ito!”, Jun yelled. “Hindi naman sa ganun, Pa…..”

“Layas!”, Jun cut her off.

Schai walked away. She was sorry Lily is dead but she couldn’t think of things that would make her grieve the way her dad, Carlo and Caleb are grieving. She could only be sorry she died. She wouldn’t wish it even to her worst enemy but that’s it.

At Kiko’s house.

“Why are they mad at us, Dad?”, Kiko asked his dad.

“The truth is, I don’t know. Maybe they have the right to feel bad. Jun asked for my help a dozen times. Pinasundan ko yan dati para malaman kung totoong may sakit si Lily pero ang nakuha kong impormasyon, malusog naman daw, nasa bahay. But if I knew she was really sick, I could have provided whatever help they needed.”, Baty said, full of remorse.

“Dad, may sakit si Lily. If hindi ka naniwala kay Jun, it’s because he fooled us a dozen times before. We can only be sorry she’s dead but really, why would we blame ourselves? Siguro what we can do now is to help them with their expenses. I don’t know, maybe Jun can have his job back. Or maybe not. Hindi ko na din alam. I feel bad for Schai. I’m sure they gang up on her when we left.”, Kiko said worriedly.

“Son, you’re a good kid. You have a pure heart and you love your friends so much. What you can do is to be there for Schai. Comfort her and tell her through her, we can send all the help we can give her family.”

“Sir, si Schai po nasa labas.”, the maid told Kiko.

Kiko glanced at his dad as if waiting for his approval to go to her.

Bart nodded.

At the den.

“Sorry Kiko! Sorry talaga! Binastos kayo ng ganon ni Papa!”, Schai burst into tears as she ran to Kiko and threw her arms on him.

“Ssssshhhh.. It’s not your fault. I don’t want you feel sorry for them anymore. Stop na.”, Kiko comforted her as he rubs her back and giving her trace of kisses.

“Sabi ni Dad, I should be there for you and we will provide you all the help that you need.”

“Pinalayas ako ni Papa. I told him I’m only there for him. Kasi naman hindi naman nila ako pwede pilitin na mag grieve the way they do kasi hindi ko naman nanay yan and naging sobrang sama ng pakikitungo ni Lily sakin. Still, I feel sorry because I know how much she loved her sons and Papa. Pero hanggang dun na lang yun.”, Schai explained.

“Ano ka ba? Mabait ka pa nga kasi yan ang nararamdaman mo eh. Papa mo pa din iniisip mo. I’m sure he’ll come around. Let him grieve first. And dito ka na muna matulog. We have a long day tomorrow.”, Kiko reminded her that Moulin Rouge is the next day.

“Oo nga eh. I hope I will be able to give justice to Satine’s role.”, Schai said.

“Give it your best shot. After all, grades natin nakasalalay dito. Wala naman tayong choice kundi galingan.”, Kiko said.

“Schai! You stay here tonight. Before going to bed, you guys have dinner first. Ako aakyat na ko, magpapahinga na ko.”, Bart said.

“Ay sorry andiyan po pala kayo, Tito. Sige po. Thank you po. Tito, pasensya na po kayo sa nangyari kanina.”, Schai blubbered.

“Schai, wala kang kasalanan. Pagbutihin mo lang pag aaral mo. Wala tayo magiging problema.”, Bart reminded Schai and walked his way to his room.

“See? I told you. Hindi lahat kasalanan mo.”, Kiko gave her a smile.

The next day, everyone was excited about the play. People were busy fixing themselves. Doing last minute re-runs, check ups of costumes, fixing hair, doing make up and all. The show will start in 30 minutes and Kiko found Schai at the back area of the auditorium.

“Hey babe, aren’t you suppose to be inside na? Make sure that everything you need is ready and all?”, Kiko whimpered.

“Now that you’re here, everything I need is here”, Schai gave him a quick kiss on the lips and hugged him tightly.

“Hey, what’s wrong? Don’t worry about your dad. We will attend the funeral tomorrow. By that time, I’m sure he has calmed down. Give him time to grieve.”, Kiko said.

“Okay.”, Schai agreed but no, it wasn’t okay. She received a call from his dad saying that she should stay away from Kiko from that moment on. Schai gave her all during the performance. She poured all her feeling to the show and it worked. Her tears were real, her emotions were realistic. The show went on as planned. Until Melmar did an adlib in one of the scenes.

“You deserve to be with me!”, He said and gave Schai a kiss on the lips as he wrapped his arms around her so tightly-she couldn’t let go. The audience applauded but not the whole production. They knew it wasn’t part of the script. Everyone went with the flow but after the show:

“Mar!”, Kiko called Melmar and punched him so hard. “For kissing my girlfriend!”.

Melmar was not given a chance to react as Kiko grabbed Schai and walked out of the auditorium. Walked out of the school. They went to a vacant spot of the town where he could park his car and have an alone time with his girlfriend.

“We’re doomed.”, Schai confirmed but with a smile on her face. It’s his right to feel that way. She was stunned of what he did but Melmar just deserved it.

“I know. I’m sorry. I wasn’t thinking.”, Kiko said.

“It’s fine. I wanted to punch him myself.”, Schai affirmed. Kiko was about to hug her when his phone rang.

“Whatever!”, Kiko yelled at the person on the other line and hung up.

“Who was that?”, Schai asked. “Nadine. And Melmar on the background. Both yelling and all. I don’t care. I’m gonna fight for you until the bitter end.”,Kiko told Schai.

A pang of conscience overwhelmed Schai. How could she think of the best way to say goodbye to Kiko earlier that night after she received a call from her dad?

“I will fight for you, too. I love you.”, Schai said as they locked their lips intensely.