Turning Tables

04

Javier

"Señor Sandoval, Aileen Cristobal from The Manila Post. Is it true that you're getting serious with Kristelle Alquesa of Alq motors?"

"What are your thoughts on the recent raid done on one of The Black Fleet Yards? Are you still in good terms with The Blacks?"

I had to huff in a breath for the fucking media is starting to ruin my day further. It has always been a chore dealing with them as I played my part. Sometimes I wish that I am the one who was born last...or realistically speaking, just be back at abuela's home and be somewhat free. It would be nice to just sit with her at her garden and listen to her and lolo Lord tell of their misdemeanors during the 70's, then come afternoon, Samuel, our father would fetch me.

Coming to the Philippines was never in my list...or included in any of my future plans. But I did it for Saint. I just don't know when the temporary visit became a permanent stay for me. Maybe it was when Enrique talked to me about mending whatever it was that I let him make myself believe should be salvaged. Importante sa akin ang opinion ng mga kapatid ko, so I considered it. Which if I am being honest, oftentimes feels like it's not even worth it.

Maybe if I had been more firm ay nasa Espanya pa rin ako. Living...or just merely existing, either way I have full control of it.

I willed myself to not think of such trivial things anymore and started walking towards my parked car. I made a mental note to ask Saint to give me a more private parking here in Vigliancia.

"Señor Sandoval, totoo bang hindi mo naman talaga step father si Yosef Aragon kundi siya ang totoo mong ama? My source said that your mom Emilia was in a throuple with Yosef and one Agustin del Valle? Na ang kinilala niyong ama na si Samuel ay panakip lang sa eskandaloso nilang ugnayan?"

And these people....and the mere mention of our father, Samuel...and Emilia...makes me want to break someone's face. But as always...I am the master of calm. I ignored their questions as usual and continued walking.

I took out my phone as soon as I was inside my car to call Enrique.

"Que pasa? More layers of privacy?"

I had to laugh at the non hello when he answered.

"No...ah...maybe."

"You could just get straight to the point, Javie. I'm with Gia."

I had to smile fondly at his words.

"Lo siento. You mentioned before something about a new app that you invested in and that...place?"

"Ahh...si. WonderWall...and Wonderland. Finally coming full circle deciding to keep that part of you private huh? What's next, you're going to live at abuela Constancia's Islet for good?" Nakakalokong halakhak ang narinig ko.

I groaned, but then his last words are kind of comforting and tempting...and if only.

"If only, Ke...but as of now..I am forced to innovate...these reporters are testing my patience and I don't want another attempt of that goat stuff."

"I never really get just why you though...there's two more of you, at magkakamukha naman tayo....ahh...si. It's because you're a woman hater..." He chuckled more.

"Stop calling me that." I hissed.

"Lo siento, hermano. Another day then. So, how do you want to proceed with the app and the place?"

"With outmost discretion. Use one of my lawyers and have them draft a tight NDA. Make use of Vigilancia's resources to the full extent as well, make sure Ke knows about it first. "