The Unnoticed

Missed Call

"... Bilisan mo, wala raw si Mercedita."

"What? Kill her and don't leave any signs... God! Why are you taking so long? Do the old days. Turn the innocent to be the suspect, Idiot!"

Something inside of me vibrated as if my soul goes out of my body. That tiny faith of me instantly faded away. I thought they were a concern with me? I thought they are happy that I came back? I thought they will teach me how would it feel of having a complete family? That realization slapped me on the face once more, as I feel the mixture of bitterness and raw angry.

I can't believe that it really happened... just for the sake of, what? Money?

"What are you doing here?"

My body tensed upon hearing my Uncle Jonathan's voice. With great terror, I slowly glanced at him. He looked at the Comfort Room before he glare at me.

Kanina pa ba siya riyan? Narinig ba niya si Auntie? Hindi ko alam kung anong sasabihin ko.

"Is that you, Johnny?"

Sabay kaming lumingon ni Uncle sa lumabas ng pinto na si Auntie. She got shocked when she saw me, but Uncle remained serious. Looking impatient for my answer.

Shit! Anong sasabihin ko?

I felt beads of sweat formed on my forehead. Did they just caught me in the act? I can't find any escape.

Until I felt a warm and strong presence from my behind. Seconds later, a hand snaked around my waist.

"You shouldn't wait for me here, Baby. Shall we go?"

I pretended fine and casual, nodded my head and let him brought me out of the event. We slid inside his car. He is waiting patiently for my explanation, but I was still contemplating everything. Until I remember my Grandma. I shouldn't waste for any more seconds because any moment she'll be in danger.

"Frank, pakiusap. Gusto kong umuwi at maprotektahan si Lola."

He looked at me with full of confusion. As if I am just stating something weird.

Naalala ko kung paano patayin si Mommy. Kung paano masunog ang mansyon namin. Kung paano pinagtulungan si Daddy. Kusang kumawala ang luha sa aking mata. Pero dahil sa titig niya ay umiwas ako at inalis iyon.

Naalala ko si Kuya Sito. Pinaalalahanan niya na ako tungkol dito, pero hindi ako nakinig. Kaya ba hindi umaalis si Nanay Percy sa tabi ni Lola?

Napuno ng iritasyon ang isipan ko. Sa inis ko ay ilang mura ang kumawala sa aking bibig.

"I want you to calm down, Julienne," Frank whispered, his one hand took my wrist. His thumb stroke it gently.

It somehow relaxes me, yet still, I am pissed and frustrated to myself.

"It's me... Yes. Anyway, Juno, I want to change the plan. Protect Mrs. Veronica Imperial."

Napalingon ako sa kanya. Nahuli ko itong ibinaba ang telepono bago sumulyap sa akin.