(GRIEGO COUSINS #1)
Seven years after his mother's tragic death, Angelus Griego's father, Simon Griego, made a life-changing decision to marry a wealthy businesswoman with a troubled past and a sick child. Angelus, known for his charm, intelligence...
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After that talk with my mother, I noticed her going home, even though it was late. She always checks on me, and I find it strange.
I wanted to ask her about what happened to my problem at school, but it seemed like she didn't want to bring it up. Ristan even texted me that night, wanting to meet with me after his ongoing project.
He was very busy, and we barely talked to each other through text. I also noticed that I get irritated easily, and I couldn't stop my sudden outbursts over minor inconveniences.
"What the hell? Didn't I tell you I want my coffee hot? This is lukewarm!" I said, annoyed with one of our maids.
"Uh... sorry po, Miss Farida. Kanina pa po kasi iyan tinimpla at h-hindi mo ginala-"
"Stop the excuses and make another one." I rolled my eyes and went back to my schoolwork.
Patapos na ang school year at katatapos lang din ng research defense. After this hellish completion of requirements, I can finally take a breather.
Madalas man ang pag-uwi ni Mama, mukhang wala pa rin namang pagbabago. I used to pray hard for her to come home and be with me, but now I don't mind if she doesn't come.
For some reason, I find comfort in isolating myself from people. Ayaw ko mang aminin, ngunit sa tuwing naririnig ko ang boses ni Mama, nawawala ako sa mood at naiirita.
"Farida." Ristan smiled and raised his arms when I entered his office.
I didn't smile. Naglakad lang ako patungo sa kaniya at yumakap. He embraced me tightly, and I felt him kiss my hair. Even his warmth and scent that used to comfort me feel nothing anymore.
"How are you? Our calls and texts weren't enough. Tinapos ko ang lahat kagabi para makapagkita tayo ngayon." Nakangiti akong hinarap ni Ristan.
"I'm fine..."
"Really?" He cocked his head, displaying a small smile. "You sly fox. You got yourself in trouble again. You're lucky your mother talked it out with Dean Meneses."
"Well, it wasn't my fault. Ginagawan ako ng kuwento ng babaeng iyon. Ano sa tingin mo ang naramdaman ko nang marinig iyon? I was pissed. You didn't even believe me and wanted me punished!" nakawala ang iritasyon sa aking boses.
Binitiwan niya ako. He loosened up his tie and opened the three buttons on his white, crisp shirt. Mukhang wala talaga siyang trabaho ngayon. His hair was down, and his table was empty.
"What do you want me to do? Let you disrespect the Dean? Ano sa tingin mo ang iisipin ni Dean Meneses kung nanatili akong tahimik habang sumisigaw ka?" Pinag-taasan niya ako ng kilay at tinuro ang couch. "Let's sit and talk about something." Aniya at naunang magtungo roon.
Pinanood ko siyang maupo sa couch. His legs were spread apart as he gazed at me using those soul-piercing emerald orbs. Lumunok ako at sumunod sa kaniya.
