Beauty In Walking Away
                                                      by KC Esber

Belle & Étoile
CHAPTER 1

Reporter: It’s Lloyd Flores and Deanna Garcia together walking to our direction. Lloyd! Deanna! Here.
Lloyd: Hello!
Deanna: Hello to the viewers of the show!
Report: Just one question for you two. Are you two really dating?
Lloyd: We’re just friends.
Reporter: How showbiz. Tell me us the truth. Your fans will not mind if you two are dating. They would be even
happier if you two are dating.
Deanna: We’re really just friends.
Lloyd: But we’re not closing our doors on anything. We’re just enjoying the moment.

“I just hate the guts of that girl.” I said as I was walking to the living room.

“Don’t tell me you’re jealous of Deanna?” He said.

“Jealous? Never. Mr. Lloyd Clarence Flores, don’t you have a photo shoot today?” I lay down the sofa and
place my head on top of his thigh.

“Yes but you know I’d rather spend my day with you Mrs. Raine Mallari Flores.” He said then kisses me on
the lips.

“Don’t call me that until there’s already a ring on this finger.” I said as he suddenly tickles me.

*Ring*

“It’s your phone. Lloyd, stop it. You’re phone is ringing. It’s maybe John calling you.” I said. He stood up and
answered the call.

“Hello? John! I know. Sorry. I’d be late for a few minutes but I’ll be there don’t worry. Just relax. Okay?
Bye.” He said as he puts down his phone.

“Let’s go. I’d be late for work.” I said as I stood up and went to our room to change.
____________________________________________________

“See you later.” I said as I kissed his cheek.

“See you later. Call me okay? Love you." He said.
                                                                                                      1
“Love you too.” I answered.

I went out of the car and went inside Bella Towers where I work as an executive assistant in a fashion
magazine.

“Your boyfriend is so sweet. He always drops you off every morning.” Adrianna said. She’s a fellow assistant
in the magazine I’m working for.

“He is.” I said as I pressed the button of the elevator.

“How long have been you been together?” She asked.

“7 years.” I answered.

“Wow.” She said.

Lloyd and I have been together since college and despite the chaos of show business, we’re still together.

“What does he do?” Adrianna asked again. Well isn’t she a bit too inquisitive.

“He’s in the real estate business.” I just answered.

I don’t want to tell her the truth, the truth that he’s really a famous celebrity. The truth that I, Raine Mallari
am the secret girlfriend of the Lloyd Flores, famous actor and singer. Who would believe that? They’ll even
say that I’m crazy or something.

“Oh. What is his name?” She asked again as we reached the 7th floor where our office is located.

“Let’s talk later. I still need to run some errands for Ms. Lalaine.” I just said to change the topic and to stop
her from asking more questions. Ms. Lalaine by the way is the editor-in-chief of the magazine Adrianna and I
work for.
____________________________________________________

“Good morning Ms. Lalaine.” I said as Ms. Lalaine entered her office.

“Good morning.” She answered.

“Ms. Lalaine, everything is already set. The newly printed July issue and also the decaf Chai Latte you
wanted to me to order for you are now on your desk.” I said.


                                                                                                      2
“Thank you.”

“Before I forgot Ms, you have a meeting at 1 pm for the magazine’s Christmas issue.” I reminded her.

“Ok. Thank you. By the way, Raine?”

“Yes, Ms. Lalaine?” I asked.

“Are the staffs ready for the Fashion Night?” She said. I remember the Fashion Night is happening this Friday.
It’s like a charity party/fashion show organized by the magazine every year to promote our magazine and also
young designers.

“Yes Ms.” I answered.

“Good.”
____________________________________________________

It was lunch time, a lot of people went out to eat but I ate early so that I could fix the things needed for the
meeting later. Suddenly, my phone beeped.

“Belle..”

It was Lloyd. We too have our own terms of endearment. For other it’s Hon, Sweetie or Cupcake, ours
is Belle and Étoile, beautiful and star in French. We came up with it in our French class in college where we
actually met.

“Étoile, pourquoi? (Why?)” I answered back.

“I miss you.” He said.

“How is the shoot going? Are they making you drink lots of ice tea again?” I teased him.

“No. It’s milk this time. Hehe. No, just joking. It’s for a magazine. It’s quite tiring but just Belle’s voice takes
my tiredness away.” He said.

“Talaga lang ha? If I know you’re already flirting with the models there.”

“No. Promise. I don’t even think they’re pretty. There’s no other girl in this world that is prettier than you.”

“Sir Lloyd? Break’s over. You need to get back to the main studio.” I heard a guy said in the background while
still talking to Lloyd.

“Tama na nga ang bola. They need you already. See you later ah. Take care.” I said.

“Love you.” I heard him whisper.

                                                                                                      3
“Love you too.” I said as I put down my cell phone. For some reason, I felt a bit sad.

They say when you love someone you’ll do anything. I love Lloyd so much that even though I know it’s not fair
for me, I still agree to keep our relationship a secret. But I’m afraid the time will come that I’ll just get tired of
everything even loving him.

Temper, Temper
CHAPTER 2

“We plan to feature Deanna Garcia on the cover of our December issue. We’ll be interviewing her and doing
photo shoots with her.” a staff of a magazine said.

“Innocent on the outside, female dog on the inside.” I suddenly whispered.

“Raine, are you saying something?” Ms. Lalaine asked me.

“Ms, I was saying it’s a good idea. Since she’s famous right knowing her love team with Lloyd Flores is loved
by a lot of people.” I said. Whew! That was close.

“I agree with Raine. Let’s do that. She’s relatable and has a pretty face. Many readers of ours would like to
buy a magazine with her on the cover. And also, I suggest you invite her and Lloyd Flores to the Fashion
Night. For them to be familiar with the magazine and it’s also a good publicity for them. Are there any more
invitations left Raine?“

“Yes Ms. I’ll send them invitations right away. I will see to it that they’ll attend to event.” I answered.

“Ok. Good. Meeting adjourned.” She said before walking out of the conference room.

                         ____________________________________________________

Around 7 pm, I went home tired with all the things needed for our Fashion Night.

“Sit down. Dinner is almost ready.” I was surprised to see Lloyd cooking dinner.

“You’re early. I thought photo shoots end late.” I said as I put down my things. I then kiss him on the cheek
and fixed the table.

“Well this photo shoot isn’t. It ended quite early. Why you don’t want me to go home early?” He answered.

“It’s not that. I’m just surprised. That’s all. Ikaw naman tampo ka naman diyan agad. Let’s eat na nga.”

After we ate, we just hangout by the terrace.

                                                                                                       4
“How’s work?” Lloyd said as he sat behind me and starts massaging my shoulders.

“Fine but as usual, tiring since Fashion Night is coming up. Oh by the way, get the ticket there in my bag. It’s
for the Fashion Night. Ms. Lalaine wants you and Deanna to be there since Deanna would be in our
December issue. I already sent Deanna’s manager the invitation.” I said.

“Oh. Okay. No prob.” He said.

“Why? What’s wrong?”

“Nothing.” He answered.

“People always say that but they always mean the opposite.” I said after I faced him.

“I’m just afraid people would know about us if I go to your event.”

“You worry too much. Don’t think about those things. Just go.”

“Fine.” He said.

                        ____________________________________________________

My dream really is to be a fashion stylist. I don’t have the talent for fashion designing but I think I have a good
eye when it comes to clothes. But it just so happens, fashion styling is a short course so I just took up
Journalism which is actually my second love. I planned to take a short course on fashion styling after I
graduated but I got so busy when I got a job in the magazine I’m working in now.

“We lack people Raine. Could you please help me with the fashion show? Also style the models. The dresses
from Veejay (Floresca), Sassa (Jimenez) and Kat (Corpuz) have just arrived.” Katrina said, the fashion editor of
our magazine.

“Sure.” So I did.

I was fixing the last model when Katrina called me. I saw Deanna Garcia beside her.

“Deanna this is Raine. She’s the assistant of Ms. Lalaine but she’s one of the stylists tonight. She will be the
one to style you. Raine, Ms. Lalaine had this idea to include Deanna in the fashion show. She’d be the
finale.” Katrina said then left.

Now this is hard. I just composed myself and put on a happy and professional disposition.

                                                                                                     5
“Ms. Deanna, this way please. You’d be wearing a Sassa Jimenez’ dress. Here.” I said as I hand her
the dress .”

“Be careful. The gown’s a bit long you might trip.” I added.

“Are you saying I’m short?” Deanna said.

Ladies and gentlemen, exhibit J to prove Deanna Garcia is a female dog. Yup it already reached exhibit J.

“No. I’m just telling you to be careful.” I said.

“Tse! Tabi nga diyan!” She said.

Patience, Raine, patience. If it’s not for Lloyd, I already skinned this girl alive.

After the fashion show, that thank God went well, I asked Deanna to change back to the dress she was
wearing earlier.

“I’ll change later. This is a nicer dress than the one I was wearing. I want to party in this one. Ang chaka
naman kasi ng pinasuot sa aking dress kanina eh.” She said.

“Fine. Just take care of it. We still need to take it back tomorrow to its designer.” I said.

“Sure.”

I don’t want to argue with her so I just let her be.

                         ____________________________________________________

I was looking at how the party was going when I saw Deanna and Lloyd by the bar.

“Raine!” I heard Deanna calling me to come to them. I see and also hear from her voice that she’s already
drunk. Who said this girl is innocent when it comes to these things?

“Raine! I want you to meet Lloyd here. Wait. I know you know him already. ‘Cause we’re really famous.
Right Lloyd?” She said while she was touching Lloyd in a flirty way.

“Deanna, compose your self. There might be people here who might recognize you.” I heard Lloyd
whispered to Deanna.

“Sorry. She’s just really drunk.” Lloyd said to me.

“It’s okay. But can you please take her home already?” I said to Lloyd.

                                                                                                  6
Lloyd stood up and took Deanna. They were walking when Deanna suddenly vomited and her vomit got on the
dress.

I got lost my temper right there and then. Ms. Lalaine would kill me if she knew about this. I don’t care if
someone sees this but I’m really mad now.

“This is just enough.” I said.

I dragged Deanna to the back door not even think about the disgusting mess she caused in the party.

“Ouch! That hurts.” She said.

“Raine, stop it.” Lloyd says as he follows us.

“Look at what your partner did to this expensive dress that I was supposed to give back to Sassa Jimenez
tomorrow morning. Ms. Lalaine would kill me if she knew about this. It was a bad idea agreeing to invite
this b!tch in this event.” I said. I was really mad I’m not a calling her a female dog anymore but the real term.

“It’s just a dress. Calm down.” Lloyd said.

“Just a dress? I might get fired because of what your partner had done.” I said as I pushed Deanna to her.

“I’ll just pay for the dress. Don’t hurt her.”

“Oh. I forgot. You’re rich and I’m not. You’re a celebrity and I’m just an assistant. Magsama nga kayo.” I
went inside to get my bag and immediately got a taxi to go home.

Smile
CHAPTER 3

I woke up the next day and saw Lloyd sleeping in the sofa. I immediately put a blanket on him for him to not
get cold. I then went back our room to take a bath and get ready for work.

After getting ready, I opened the door of our room to go out but as I was going out I bumped into Lloyd. We
were like playing patintero. I go to the right and he goes there too.

“Stop.” I finally said then passed at his right.

After eating breakfast, I went out to get a taxi. I wasn’t able to get one so I walked to the jeepney stop. I then
saw Lloyd’s car passed by.

This happens when we fight. We don’t talk to each other. We give each other cold shoulders.

                         ____________________________________________________


                                                                                                    7
It was a Saturday morning but I still need to work for half a day. I still need to fix things and run some quick
errands.

“Good morning!” Adrianna said to me.

“Good morning.” I answered.

“Why do you look so glum? LQ?” She asked.

“You can say that. We rarely fight but when we do we really give each other major cold shoulders.”

“What’s the problem ba?”

“It’s a long story.” I just said. I’m worried about Lloyd and the dress.

“Delivery! Ms. Raine Mallari?” I suddenly heard a person called. It was a delivery man from a major delivery
company.

“Here.” I said.

The delivery man approached me.

“Please sign here, here, and also here.” he said. So I did.

“Thanks.” I said then he leaves.

I opened the package to see the Sassa Jimenez dress Deanna vomited on last night. It was cleaned and good as
new. Together with it I saw a paper with a word on it:

                                                       Étoile

                        ____________________________________________________

I was eating lunch in this restaurant when I heard people murmuring.

“Uy! Si Lloyd Flores oh! Ang gwapo niya talaga. Sana dito siya sa restaurant natin kumain.” I heard a female
waiter in the restaurant I was eating in say.

It suddenly made me think. What if I wasn’t Lloyd’s girlfriend? Or what if I was his girlfriend but he’s not a
famous star.

“Ayan. Dito nga kakain! Tabi diyan. Ako magseserve sa kanya.” the same waiter said.
                                                                                                     8
“Table for one please.” I heard Lloyd said as he comes into the restaurant.

“Bakit table for one lang? Wala po ba kayong date? Gusto ninyo ako na lang?”

I saw Lloyd just smiled. These scenes actually make me laugh a bit. I’m not saying I’m not guilty but it’s really
funny how we overreact when we see our crushes or the celebrities we love.

“Joke lang po. This way Sir.” she said.

Lloyd sat on the table across me. I smiled at him and he did too. That smile buried whatever happened last
night and the cold shoulders we gave to each other.

Erich Segal once wrote in his book, ‘Love means never having to say you're sorry.’

It also applies in our relationship.

Oh Mother
CHAPTER 4

“How’s Coron?” I said to Lloyd on the phone as I went in the elevator after eating lunch outside.

As I went inside I saw Deanna go in the elevator too.

“Yeah. If we both are no longer busy. We could go there. Stop it Lloyd. Quit teasing me. Fine. I love you. ”

As I looked at Deanna, she looks a bit jealous of my conversion with Lloyd on the phone.

“Lloyd! How are you?” I heard her say as she got her phone and called someone, well pretend to call someone
in her case.

“Take care. Love you too.” I finally said as I put down my cell phone go out of the floor where our office is.

When I arrived in my table, I suddenly laughed. She’s so jealous of my phone conversation that she pretended
to call Lloyd. If she knows who Lloyd was really talking to that time, she’d get mad.

                         ____________________________________________________

I saw Deanna go out of the conference room followed by my colleague, Nikki.

“How was the interview?” I asked Nikki when I saw Deanna was gone already.

“She’s such a b!tch.” she said.


                                                                                                    9
“Oh really? Why?” She seemed nice.” I pretended I didn’t know that about Deanna.

“She’s so rude and b!tchy. She even told me to edit a lot of things just to make her look kind and relatable.
Hay!”She said.

“I didn’t expect her to be like that.” I just said.

                         ____________________________________________________

“Raine! Phone.” Adrianna said as she calls me and hands me the phone.

“Thanks.” I said as I got the phone from Adrianna. She then leaves.

“Raine..” I heard the one on the other line said.

“Ma’am.” I answered.

“I called you to ask if you could have dinner with me. I just want to know how my son is doing.”

“Sure Ma’am. Same restaurant?”

“Yes.”

                         ____________________________________________________

I'm meeting with the Victoria Flores, world renowned model. She has worked with lots of photographers like
Patrick Demarchelier and she one of the most famous Filipino models in the world together with Anna Bayle.

Victoria Flores is Lloyd’s mother and the only one person who knows about our relationship. She and Lloyd
don’t have a good relationship. Particularly, Lloyd hates his mother. She’s been busy even before Lloyd was
born. So when she gave birth to Lloyd, a Nanny took care of Lloyd. Nana Eva, she’s Lloyd second Mom. Too
bad, she died even before Lloyd graduated college. Back to Ms. Victoria, she’s always abroad and don’t have
time to take care of Lloyd while Lloyd’s father left him and his Mom when he was 5 years old.

“Thanks for accepting my invitation.” Ms. Victoria said as I sit down and order food.

“You’re welcome Ma'am.”

“What would you be having Ma’am?” the waiter asked me.

“Steak, medium rare with mash potatoes.” I said.


                                                                                               10
“One vegetarian pasta for me.” Ms. Victoria said.

“Oh, and one bottle of Shiraz please.” she added.

                        ____________________________________________________

“When did you arrive here in Manila, Ma’am?” I asked.

“Just this morning. I’d be staying for 3 days for some commercials and also for the fashion week. How’s my
son?”

“Fine Ma’am. He’s in Coron right now for a one week shooting.”

“Just be patient with him Raine. I know it’s hard.”

“I know Ma’am.” I said as I take a sip of red wine.

“Just tell Lloyd about me coming back here. I know he wouldn’t like the news but please tell him I love him
and that he takes care.”

“I would Ma’am.”

“Can I ask you one more favor Raine?”

I nodded.

“Can you help me again shop for clothes and some things I need after eating dinner? I love the clothes you
picked out for me the last time.” she asked.

“Sure Ma’am.”

                        ____________________________________________________

We went shopping in Makati. Everyone was taking Ms. Victoria’s autograph while we were walking down the
stalls.

“This is the last one okay?” Ms. Victoria said to a fan and the other fans agree.

After that, we went to shop for clothes. I am actually Ms. Victoria’s shopping buddy when she goes back to the
Philippines. I actually get curious why she still shops for clothes here if famous designers give her clothes for
free.

“Ma’am, try these dresses. I think these would look good one you.”

                                                                                                 11
“Okay. Thanks.” she said before going in the fitting room.

“How are you two doing?” she asked.

“We’re good and going strong.” I answered.

“How long are you two together now? 7 years?”

“Yes Ma’am.”

“No plans of settling down?”

“Not yet Ma’am especially Lloyd is still at the peak of his career and I don’t want to ruin that.”

She didn’t comment or say anything about what I said.

“Ms, I’ll buy these three dresses.” was all that she said. But I can see in her expression that she’s somewhat
feels bad for me; maybe because our relationship is still a secret to almost everyone or she can somewhat
relate to our situation.

Pesto Pasta
CHAPTER 5

A kiss on the cheek woke me up.

“Belle..” Lloyd said and then laid down beside me and then hugged me.

I looked at the clock it was 5 am.

“I missed you.” Lloyd said as he started kissing lips then my neck.

“It’s 5 in the morning Lloyd. Aren’t you tired?” I said.

“No. I missed you so much.” he said.

“I missed you so much too.” I said as I kissed him back.
                      ____________________________________________________

I woke up to see Lloyd no longer by my side then suddenly I heard someone playing the piano. I wore Lloyd’s
shirt then went to the living room.

You touch these tired eyes of mine and map my face out line by line and somehow growing old feels fine..

I saw Lloyd playing the piano and singing. I sat beside him looked at him while playing.

                                                                                                 12
And though my edges may be rough, and never feel I'm quite enough. It may not seem like very much but
I'm yours..

He sang as he looks at me.

“I love you Raine and that will never change.” he said after singing then, he kissed me.

“I love you too.”

                         ____________________________________________________

“Let’s go. I still have a commercial with Deanna.” Lloyd said.

“No. Go ahead. I still need to do some things for the shoot to prepare for the shoot tomorrow. Karen, the
fashion editor asked me to help them. Oh. By the way, I cooked you your favorite pesto pasta. It’s in the
container there.”

“Thank you but are you sure?” he asked.

“Yeah. Go ahead. Good luck!”

“Ok. Got to go.” he said then he gave me a light kiss on the lips then left.

I just took taxi going to the office.
                          ____________________________________________________

“Perfect! More energy and I want more kilig factor.” the commercial director said to them.

So Lloyd and Deanna did it.

“Ok. Cut. Good take. Lunch break.” the director said.

Deanna immediately pulled Lloyd’s arm.

“Let’s eat together. I cooked for you.” Deanna said.

“Sus! Binilang niya yan sa restaurant.” the assistant of Deanna whispered.

“Don’t mind her. She’s just like talking to herself.”Deanna said while giving her assistant a mean look.

“Let’s go.” she added.
                                                                                                13
                         ____________________________________________________

“Here. Have some pesto pasta. I cooked it for you. I know it’s your favorite.” Deanna said to Lloyd as she was
feeding him the pasta.

“No. It’s okay. I’m already full. I just ate pesto pasta.”Lloyd said.

“Just have one bite. I cooked it especially for you.” Deanna said.

“No. It’s really okay.” Lloyd said.

“Lloyd, what’s wrong with you? You know I really like and I’m willing to do everything for you but you don’t
notice me.” Deanna said then she started crying.

“Don’t cry. They may think something's wrong with us.”

“But there’s really something wrong.” She said then hugged Lloyd and went close to Lloyd to kiss him but
Lloyd moved away.

“Deanna, everything is just for the fans. You know we’re just friends. Nothing more.”

“You’re just using me?”

“You’re just using me also.” Lloyd whispered.

“Deanna, you know I like someone else but you just keep pushing yourself. Please don’t hurt yourself.
You’re my friend and I don’t want to see you cry or get hurt.” Lloyd said to Deanna.

                         ____________________________________________________

“Are you okay?” I said to Lloyd while we’re watching TV that night.

“Yeah. I’m okay.”

“Sure?”

He nodded.

“Étoile, what if I study fashion styling abroad? You know I really want to learn it but I just got busy with my
job.”

A commercial of Ms. Victoria suddenly went up.
                                                                                                14
“I just want to tell you. Your Mom invited me to dinner a few days ago. I don’t want to tell you about it
because I know you’ll get upset but she wants me to tell you to take care and that she loves you.”

“When did she arrive here? Is she still here?” he asked.

“No. She arrived last Monday. She only stayed here for 3 days for a commercial and a fashion show. “

“You told her that I was in Coron that time?”

“Yes.” I answered.

Lloyd just kept quiet after that. She really just keeps quiet when it comes to her mom.
                         ____________________________________________________

I just keep quiet too when it comes to Lloyd and her mother. I just report that’s it and don’t comment
anymore. ‘Cause Lloyd and I will just fight if I push his situation with her any further.

But Lloyd is lucky. I’m actually an orphan, grew up in the orphanage and all. My parents abandoned me when I
was a baby. As I said, I grew up in an orphanage and then a very kind couple adopted me. They took good care
of me but unfortunately they died because of a road accident 3 years ago.

I now know lots of unfortunate events can happen to a person and it happened to me.

Scrooge
CHAPTER 6.1

“I have a surprise for you.” Lloyd said.

“What is it?” I answered.

“Later.”

“Ikaw pinapatakam mo pa ako. Hehe. Okay, later. I need to go already.”

“Going early?”

“I still need to do lots of things to do in the magazine.”

“I’ll drop you off.”
                         ____________________________________________________

“See you later.” I said to Lloyd.
                                                                                               15
“You too.” He said then kissed me gently on the lips.

I was about to go out of the car when I saw Deanna approaching the building.

“Drive the car. Deanna is just there. She might recognize your car.”

Lloyd immediately pressed on the gas pedal.
                      ____________________________________________________

“Was that Lloyd?” Deanna asked her assistant.

“I don’t think so Ma’am. Marami naman pong ganyang sasakyan dito.”

“Never mind. Maybe I’m just hallucinating because of what happened yesterday.” Deanna said to herself.

“Let’s go.” she said to her assistant.
                         ____________________________________________________

“Ms. Lalaine, Deanna has arrived and the shoot is now going on.” I said to Ms. Lalaine.

“Good. Please cancel my meeting this lunch. I’d be joining Rajo (Laurel) for lunch. I’d be helping him pick out
some cloths for his new collection.”

“Yes Ma’am.”

“Oh and Raine? Come by the shoot to check if everything is okay since I can’t go there myself.”

“Sure Ma’am.”
                          ____________________________________________________

I went to the studio where there are shooting to see how everyone is doing.

“How is the shoot going?” I asked Karen.

“Disaster.” Karen said.

“Why? What’s wrong?”

“Everything especially Deanna. I just confirmed the rumor about her being a b!tch is very true. She’s just
famous because she was paired up with Lloyd. Without him, her 3 years of so called stardom will be non

                                                                                               16
existent.”

“Cool down Karen. Where’s your assistant?”

“I fired her.”

“Why?”

“She kept slacking off . I tell her to do something but she never do it.”

“Just relax. I’m done with the things Ms. Lalaine wants me to do and she also told me to check here. I'd be
willing help you.”

“Thanks.”
                        ____________________________________________________

“Darlin’, give me happy, festive, excited. It’s for Christmas. Do you want to look like Scrooge?” I heard the
photographer saying.

With his thick Italian accent I knew who the photographer was, Giovanni. He’s one of the best photographers
in his generation. I met him in a photo shoot of Ms. Lalaine when she was interviewed in Vogue Italia. Actually,
Ms. Lalaine was a former supermodel turned fashion magazine owner.

“Raine! Ciao Bella!” he saw me then greeted me with a kiss on both cheeks.

“Giovanni! Comme va? (How are you?)” I did the same to him.

“Bene grazie! (Good, thank you.)” he answered.

“Ehem.” I heard Deanna said.

“What’s going on here? Is there something wrong? Ms. Lalaine told me to check things out here.” I said to
Giovanni.

“Well this girl over here is not cooperating with me.” he said in Italian.

Let’s just say I’d been with Ms. Lalaine for a long time already and she takes me almost everywhere since I’m
the only one she trusts aside from her father. That's why I know some basic words in the Spanish, Japanese,
Italian and Chinese.

“Oh I see.” I answered back in Italian.

“Ms. Deanna, don’t be offended but I know you are not a model but this is a shoot for a magazine so you
need to be one. Giovanni, here is one of the best photographers there is. He’s the Patrick Demarchelier of
Italy. To be honest with you the money we paid him is even larger than the talent fee for a soap. But
because this magazine believes so much in you and we value you we got this amazing photographer to
                                                                                                17
shoot you. There’s no other cover in the history of our magazine that is shot by this photographer, only
yours. ”

Deanna wasn’t able to answer.

“Grazie.” Giovanni whispered to me.

Thou Shall Not Flirt
CHAPTER 6.2

I was looking at the photos on the computer screen with Giovanni when I heard again another familiar voice.

“Hello! Sorry to bother you all but, special delivery!”

I saw Lloyd with two white plastic bags on both of his hand. He glanced at me and smiled.

“Lloyd!” Deanna went immediately to Lloyd and hugged him.

“Please Deanna. Not here.” I heard Lloyd saying to Deanna softly.

“Nice to see you again Mr. Lloyd.” I said to Lloyd.

“Just call me Lloyd, Ms. Raine.” he said.

“Hehe. Me too. Just call me Raine.”

“Excuse me. Can we take a break to eat? I’m already hungry.” Deanna said in her maarte accent.

“Fine. One hour break.” I heard Giovanni said.

Deanna immediately changed and looked at what Lloyd brought.

“Kare-kare?” Deanna said with the hint of disgust.

“Surprise! I brought your favorite.” I heard Lloyd whisper as he passed by me and then sits beside Deanna.

That made me smile.

“Yeah. Is there something wrong?”

“No. It’s just that I’m on a diet.”


                                                                                              18
“You can eat the vegetables or if you want I get another food for you if you don’t want it.” I heard Lloyd said
to Deanna.

“No. It’s okay. I’ll just eat the vegetables. Thanks by the way.” Deanna said as she forces herself to smile.

“Karen, I just go out for lunch. Be back later.” I said to Karen.

“Why are you going out? Lloyd brought us food.”

“Oo nga Raine. Just eat here. I brought food for everyone. Join us.” I heard Lloyd said as he gestures me to sit
with them.

“No. It’s okay. I don’t want to bother you two.”

“Ikaw na ang nagsabi baka tayo mabuko niyang kapartner mo.” I whispered to him.

“We both know I’m not the only good actor here.” he whispered back.

“Raine, it’s okay. Join us. The others too. Join us.” Deanna said.
                         ____________________________________________________

I was fixing some clothes for the shoot when Lloyd decided to annoy me for some reason.

“Posporo ka ba?” Lloyd said then makes this cute childish face that made me fall in love with him.

“Huh?” I said.

“Kasi posporo ako. Kung posporo ka match tayo.”

I laughed.

“Mga hirit mo Lloyd ah. Someone might see us.” I said to Lloyd.

“Excuse me. Karen said it’s time for the next outfit already.”
                      ____________________________________________________

“What’s with the kind gesture Lloyd? I thought you didn't like me.” Deanna said.

“I told you Deanna, I like you Deanna but only as a friend. That's why I'm still here for you. ” Lloyd answered.

“If you like someone else then why are you flirting with that assistant?”

                                                                                                  19
“Flirting? I’m not flirting with her. What made you think that?”
                          ____________________________________________________

“Here. Wear this ring.” I said to Deanna as I was looking for what accessories would go with the red dress she
was wearing.

“How do you find Lloyd? Isn’t he cute?” Deanna suddenly asked.

“I guess.”

“Isn’t he your type?”

“What’s will all the questions?”

“Well, he’ll not like you. Tignan mo nga ako. Mayaman, maganda, sikat at matalino. I have everything but
he still doesn’t like me. But you? You’re pretty but you lack effort. Hay.. Lloyd and I are together as love
teams for about 3 years already. I kept doing everything for him to like him but nada. He kept saying he
likes someone else. Maybe he’s gay.”

I wanted to laugh but I just kept quiet.

“He rejected me big time last night. He’ll pay. I’ll know who’s that girl Lloyd likes.”

Oui
CHAPTER 7

I woke up the next day. I looked at the clock and realize it was my birthday. I went to the kitchen to only see
food set in the table and note from Lloyd.

                                                      Belle,
                                                 Happy Birthday!
                                             I made you breakfast.
                           Sorry I won’t be able to celebrate your birthday with you.
                                        Something important came up.
                              Don’t be sad, I’ll make it up to you when I get back.

Sigh. Ano pa ba magagawa ko?
                     ____________________________________________________

“You look agitated.” my fellow assistant, Carissa said.

“It’s just that it’s my birthday today and my boyfriend is busy to celebrate my birthday with me.” I said.

“Don’t worry he must have an important reason for not being able to celebrate your birthday with you. If
                                                                                           20
you want I’ll call our other officemates. We’ll go out and celebrate your birthday.”

“Thank you very much. I really appreciate it but I’ll just spend it alone. It’s also been awhile since I’ve had
my alone time.”

“Okay. But call if you want some company for your birthday.”
                        ____________________________________________________

“Is everything ready for tonight?” Lloyd asked the person on the other line.

“Yes Sir. The whole restaurant is already reserved for the whole night. Everything is already in place. Don’t
worry I told them to keep everything confidential.”

“Good job. I want everything to be perfect for tonight.”
                      ____________________________________________________

“Are you looking for an engagement ring Sir?”

“Yes. But I want something unique.”

“Why do you get this ring Sir? It’s unique but something special.”

“You are right. I love it. It’s just the right ring. I’ll buy it.”
                          ____________________________________________________

I was about to get a taxi when someone places a blind fold on me.

“Don’t worry. I won’t harm you.” I heard the voice said.

We went inside the elevator and went up. Well at least, I felt we were.

“Few more steps.” the voice said as we went out of a floor.

I suddenly heard someone singing.

I can only give my life and show you all I am in the breath I breathe, I will promise you my heart and give
you all you need if it takes some time..

The person suddenly takes off my blindfold and left. I opened my eyes to see Lloyd standing with flowers in his
hand singing. We’re in the restaurant of Bella Towers and seems like he reserved the whole place. It was just
us, the violinist and the waiter.

                                                                                                  21
                         ____________________________________________________

“Do you like it?” Lloyd said.

“I love it. Thank you.” I said.

He suddenly stands up and got on one knee.

“You know I’m not good with these speeches and you know I’d be just corny if I use lines from my movies
and shows. So it will be just short and straight to the point. Raine?”

“Yes Lloyd?”

“You know I love you and I want to grow old with you. So Raine Rosario Mallari, will you marry me?”

He got a box from his pocket and opened it. Then I saw, the most beautiful ring I have ever seen. It’s not the
ring people would expect. This ring is unique and it says what I really want to say to Lloyd right now.

“As the ring says, oui. I will marry you Lloyd Ezekiel Flores.”
                          ____________________________________________________

“Thank you, thank you for everything.” I said to Lloyd as we were slow dancing as the violinist plays.

“I should be the one to say that. I should thank you for coming to my life. And we’re gonna be together
forever.”Lloyd said.

“How about Deanna and your love team with her? The fans?”

“I will tell the whole truth. I’m going to announce our upcoming marriage tomorrow. People would
understand.”

“I love you.” I said to Lloyd.

“I love you too.” he answered then kisses me.

We were dancing when I suddenly heard faint snaps.

“What was that?” I said.

“What are you talking about?”


                                                                                                 22
“I heard snaps, like from a camera.”

“I heard nothing. I already talked to the waiter and the violinist about keeping this quiet. Don’t worry.”
                        ____________________________________________________

“Hello, Annabelle Caminos of Celebrity Parazzi.”

“I’ve got news about Lloyd Flores that you would really like.”

“Who’s is this?”

“Does it matter? I said I got news about Lloyd Flores for you. Do you want it or not?”

“Yes. I do. Go ahead.”

“The story is this. In real life, Lloyd was secretly dating Deanna for about 2 years but Deanna broke up with
him because he was caught having a relationship with this certain girl. So the Lloyd we have knew and love
is a cheater and a liar. You don’t believe me? I’ll send you the pictures.”

Playboy
CHAPTER 8

“Lloyd, come to my office now.”

Lloyd’s manager called him early in the morning.

“Why? The press conference is not until 9 in the morning. It’s just 6 am.” Lloyd answered.

“I know but that was an order. Get dressed and just go.”
                      ____________________________________________________

I woke up and felt Lloyd no longer there beside me. He must have some important thing to do. I then saw the
ring on my finger. It hits me again. Lloyd asked me to marry him and I said yes. We’re gonna be together
forever. I smiled as I looked at the ring on my finger.
                          ____________________________________________________

“We've got a serious problem, Lloyd.” Sarah Raymundo, Lloyd’s manager said as she places that day’s issue of
Celebrity Parazzi.

                                    FAMOUS SINGER-ACTOR, A PLAYBOY?

As stated on the headline of the newspaper.

“No. This isn’t true. Deanna and I, we never had a relationship even a secret one. How could this
                                                                                               23
happen?”Lloyd said as he reads the article.

“I know but this will surely stain your image, Lloyd. This is not good. Be prepared for everything that’s going
to happen. And tell that girl of yours too to be prepared.”

“You knew about her?” Lloyd was surprised.

“I do a background check on every talent I handle and that includes you Lloyd.”
                      ____________________________________________________

“Have you heard the news about Lloyd Flores?” I heard two interns talking in the bathroom.

“What news?”

“The news that Deanna and Lloyd were secretly together for 2 years but Deanna ended the relationship
because turns out Lloyd was cheating on her with this girl. I heard it was a model he was cheating with on
Deanna.”

“Really? I never thought he was a playboy. Poor Deanna.”

I went out the cubicle as the two interns left.
                        ____________________________________________________

“Where’s Lloyd? It’s already 9 am.”

“Start the press-con without Lloyd. You know what has happened and this will get bigger if Lloyd attends
that press-con. Just make up an excuse.”

“Yes Ms. Sarah.”
                        ____________________________________________________

I was getting a taxi to go home when a car stopped in front of me. It was Lloyd’s. I immediately went inside the
car.

“You shouldn’t have fetched me.” I said.

“It’s okay. You know I do it if I am not busy.” he said. I can see in his eyes that he has a problem.

We were nearing a famous mall that was near our house when I saw a car was following us. When we stopped
because the stoplight turned red, the car went to our right side. The man driving the car lowered down his


                                                                                                   24
window and started taking pictures of us. Lloyd immediately shielded me and good thing, the light turned
green. Lloyd’s car was tinted but still has this blind spot.
                        ____________________________________________________

I immediately went out of the car when we got home.

“Lloyd, tell me what was that about?” I asked Lloyd.

“It was nothing.” Lloyd answered.

“Nothing? Lloyd, I know about the rumor. I know it’s just a rumor but it's still bothering you and its
consequences will get worse.”

Lloyd wasn’t able to answer.

Kamikaze
CHAPTER 9

As I looked at a picture of Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth II 60 years ago and their recent picture together
and seeing that nothing really changed made me sad. Not that I’m sad for them but it made me think if we’d
be like that. I thought we would be but because of what’s happening these days, I’m having doubts. I know it’s
wrong but few days passed after the rumor went out and things got worse than we expected it to be. And
Deanna wasn’t even helping Lloyd. She was just keeping her mouth shut and saying “No comment” every time
she was asked about the rumor.

“Raine!” I heard Adrianna calling me.

“Yes?” I answered.

“What’s with you? Kanina pa kita tinatawag. Ms. Lalaine’s calling you.”

“Sorry. Sige. Thank you.”

I went inside Ms. Lalaine’s office.

“You need something Ms. Lalaine?”

“No. I just need to talk to you about something Raine.” Ms. Lalaine said. She looks worried.

“What is it about Ma’am?” I answered.

“It’s about you Raine and how you are acting for the past few days. Is there something you want to tell me
about? Do you have a problem I can help you with?”
                                                                                                25
“Ma’am, sorry if I’ve been like this lately but sorry I can’t discuss it with you. I’m really sorry.”

“I understand. You can go back to work now.”

I was about to go out of Ms. Lalaine’s office when she said..

“Raine..”

“Yes Ma’am?”

“I changed my mind. Take the day off. Maybe it will help with whatever you are going through now.” she
said.

“Thank you Ma’am.”
                        ____________________________________________________

I decide to just go home and stay inside the house.

I was cleaning since it’s my way of distressing when someone knocked on the door. I approached the door and
peeked at the door’s peephole. I was surprised because there was a reporter and a cameraman outside. I was
so surprise because no one knew we were living here.

“Tao po?! Mr. Lloyd Flores?” the reporter said.

I immediately texted Lloyd to not go home immediately.

“Is there someone home?” the reporter asked again.

“You’ve got the wrong house. It’s on the next block.” I said from inside the house.

“Oh. Sorry Ma’am.”

I heard the reporter blaming the cameraman for not checking if the address they got was right.

Whew. That was close. But I can’t take this anymore. What’s happening? We have faced many rumors and
intrigues but this is the worst.
                          ____________________________________________________

“Are they gone?” Lloyd said as he immediately went inside the house after arriving.


                                                                                                    26
“I told them the house is located at the next block.” I said.

Lloyd then hugs me then started kissing me but I pushed him gently.

“No, Lloyd.”

“Why is there something wrong?”

“No. I’m just not in the mood.” I just said.
                        ____________________________________________________

I just wanted to go out so I did. It was quarter to 11 and Lloyd was asleep early. I went out of the house and
went to the nearest bar.

“One Kamikaze please.” I said at the bartender as I sat at the bar stool.

The bartender handed me the shot glass, I immediately took the shot of Kamikaze, drinking all of its content.

It’s as if in my heart I just wanted to get away from everything. Where no one knows me and even the
situation I’m going through right now. What if I just go to London and pursue my dream to study fashion
styling? I’ve been thinking about it for years now but things kept getting in my way.

“Ms, can I get you another drink?” a guy said as he sat beside me.

“No thanks. One more kamikaze bartender.”

The guy started talking to me but I just pretended I was listening. After a few shots, I know in myself that I’m
already drunk.
                        ____________________________________________________

“Raine?” Lloyd realizes that Raine wasn’t in the house so he immediately called her.

“Belle.. Where are the heck are you?” Lloyd said to Raine over the phone.

“Étoile! You called. I was just getting some fresh air.”Raine said.

“Fresh air in a bar? From the sound of your voice, you’re already drunk. Where are you?”

“No. I can go home by myself. People might recognize you here. I don’t want to worsen your
problem.” Raine said.


                                                                                                  27
“Ms, you’re already drunk. Do you want me to help you?”Lloyd overheard someone talking in the
background.

Lloyd got dressed (to not be recognized) immediately, took the car keys and got in the car. He went to the
nearest bar he could think of, Nirvana. And there she saw Raine already drunk but still asking for the waiter for
a shot of Kamikaze.

“Ms, you’re already drunk. No more kamikaze for you.”the bartender said.

Lloyd immediately took Raine and just placed some money for the bartender on top of bar table before they
went out of the bar and went home.
                       ____________________________________________________

The next morning I woke up with a terrible headache. It was like someone was pounding my head. Well, it was
my fault anyways.

“I told you to drink moderately. You never listen.” Lloyd said as he enters with a tray of food.


“Sorry Mom.” I said sarcastically.

“Belle, I’m just worried about you. If I didn’t know that you left last night, baka kung anong nangyari na
sayo.”

“I know. I’m sorry. I’m just tired of everything. I’m really sorry. It won’t happen again.”

“It’s okay. I understand you.”

I took some aspirins and started eating even with a drilling headache.

Étoile. I said.

“Yes Belle?”

“What if I go somewhere far away for a while? Study fashion styling in London for 2 years. It will help you a
lot since you won’t have to worry about people knowing our relationship.” I said.

“You know I don’t like being away from you.” he said.

“Sumunod ka na lang after a month or two, after everything’s okay around here.”

“You know my career is here in the Philippines.”

“But mine too. Please Lloyd. It will benefit the both of us.”

“I’ll think about it.”

                                                                                                   28
Last Day
CHAPTER 10

As much as I see that Lloyd didn’t want me to leave, I have decided. It’s not that I don’t love him. Don’t ever
think that but there’s no other choice. Long distance relationships are hard but there’s a chance that things
would get even worse that we’ll need to be separate from each other forever if I stay here. So even without
Lloyd’s consent I bought a ticket and fixed everything for my stay in London.

“Go home early.” I told Lloyd while we’re eating breakfast.

“What for?” he asked.

“I have something to tell you.”

“Can you tell it now?”

“No. Later. Lloyd..”

“Fine. I’d go home early. I’ll just finish the story con for the indie film I’d be working on then go straight
here.”
                       ____________________________________________________

“Ms. Lalaine..” I said.

No one actually knows I’m leaving in the office even Ms. Lalaine. I’m actually just about to give my resignation
letter to her today.

“Yes Raine. Is there something wrong?” Ms. Lalaine said.

I handed her my resignation letter.

“I decided to pursue my studies in fashion styling.”

“I’m happy you finally decided to fulfill your dream but can you promise me you’d be back here after your
studies?”

“I can’t Ma’am. Sorry. But this is the first place I would go to if ever I came back here.”

“I understand but it will be hard to find your replacement. You are the best assistant I have and the longest
too.” she laughed a little.

                                                                                                   29
“Thank you Ma’am” I said then smiled.
                     ____________________________________________________

“Just reminding you to come home early.” I texted Lloyd.

I fixed everything in the house and also packed my bags. I’m going to London tomorrow. I would also tell Lloyd
tonight about my departure. You’ll say how selfish of me to do this. I wasn’t thinking of Lloyd’s feelings. But
do you think things would be better if I stay? And honestly, I am having second thoughts about Lloyd. It’s not
that I don’t love him anymore it’s just that I was thinking if his career is more important than me. I know we’re
already engaged but the rumor made me think otherwise. I don’t want to make him pick between me and his
career because I’m afraid he’d pick his career.
                         ____________________________________________________

“What’s the occasion? Why is there so much food? I know it’s not our anniversary.” Lloyd said.

“Sit down. Let’s eat first.” I said to Lloyd.

“No. I’m sensing something is wrong. What is it? Tell me. You know you can tell me anything.”

“Lloyd, please sit down.”

He did as I said as I sat in front of him. Then there was silence.

“I’m leaving in awhile to go to London.” I suddenly blurted out.

“What? I though I’d think about that first.”

“My flight would be leaving at 5 in the morning. I’ve packed and I’m ready to go.”

“Raine..”

“Lloyd, you know me and I’m the most stubborn person you know. When I want something, I’ll do it no
matter what. And look what the rumor has done to your career. I know without you, Deanna would be
nothing and it is proven now but without Deanna too, your career will go down. And I know everything
would get even worse if I stay. As I said, you could always go with me or just go to London after you already
straighten things out.”

“Please Raine. Our wedding? What do we do about that?”

“We have to postpone that. We could always do that in London. I love you Lloyd and I love you some much

                                                                                                 30
that I’ll accept being away from you just to help you.” I stood up and placed my hands on both sides of his
cheeks.

“Raine, don’t do this to me. I love you Raine. You know that very much. Hindi tayo tatagal ng ganitong
katagal kung di kita mahal. Don’t leave me please.” Lloyd suddenly hugs me.

“Then come with me.”

“Raine.. You know I can’t.”

“That’s why even though it’s hard for me, I’m leaving alone.”
                     ____________________________________________________

We laid in bed, staring at the ceiling with my head resting on his chest and him gently stroking my hair. We
just waited until it’s time for me to go.

“Lloyd..” I said.

“What is it Belle?”

“Alam mo kung bola ka di kita kayang ishoot.”

“Dahil laging mo akong mamimiss.” Lloyd said as he and I started laughing.

“I’m gonna miss you.” I said to Lloyd.

“I’m gonna miss you too, very much. Call me when you get there.”

“I will. I’ll call you every single day.”

“I love you.” I said.

“I love you too.” Lloyd answered.

We kissed.

It was our last kiss before I left for London. I told him not to drop me off at the airport anymore. It will just
hurt both of us. So when the time came, I hailed a cab and went straight to the airport. I’m gonna miss him.
I’m gonna miss him so much.

As It All Falls Down
CHAPTER 11

“Lloyd, you know it’s very important for you to be in my graduation tomorrow.” I said to Lloyd when we
were talking via Skype.

                                                                                                    31
A few months have past. I studied fashion styling just like I planned to. It’s actually my graduation tomorrow.
And I’m gonna be an assistant to a stylist here in London for a while. It’s just sad Lloyd isn’t here with me. The
rumor is still taking its toll but at least things are getting better, for Lloyd at least. Lloyd and I, we talked on the
phone and also talked via Skype but it’s just different when we’re really together.

“You know I want to be there right now with you but I can’t.”

“You always say that. You’ve change Lloyd. You value your career now more. It’s not that I’m telling you to
forget about your career but how about me, how about us? Ever since..”

“Ever since what?”

“Ever since that manager of yours thought of that brilliant idea of telling everyone that the rumor was not
true and it even paved the way for you and Deanna to be in a relationship, you’ve changed. And you just let
them do that to you.”

“Are you questioning Sarah's decisions?”

“What if I do? I know Sarah just wants to save your career but I didn’t expect she’d do that and you’d go on
with it.”

“But you know how the show business works. Not everything is true.”

“Show business, show business, show business. I’m tired of it already. I’ve put up with it for a long time
already and I can’t take it anymore. I don’t want to do this Lloyd but.. me or your career? Would you stay
there or go here to get married and have the family we wanted all along?”

“Raine.. I.. I love what I do. I love making people happy with what I do. I’m happy with what I’m doing.”

“Okay. I don't have the right to stop you from doing what you love. I’m just sad that you didn’t pick me but I
understand. I love you Lloyd, remember that.” I said to Lloyd then I closed my laptop and just started crying.
                       ____________________________________________________

The next day I was not in the mood to go to my graduation but my friends Meredith and Miranda (they’re
twins) who are also my classmates pushed me to go.

“He’s just a guy. There are still many guys out there.”Miranda said.

“A guy you are with for 7 years and about to get married to, isn’t just some guy.” Meredith said.


                                                                                                       32
“Miranda.. Meredith..” I said.

“Sorry.” they both said.

“Forget about that. It’s our graduation day. We need to enjoy.” Miranda said.

“Let’s go. We’ll be late.” Meredith said
                         ____________________________________________________

We decided to go to this club later that night.

“I’ll just sit by the bar.” I shouted since the bar was so crowded and noisy.

So I sat by the bar and ordered some vodka. I suddenly saw this guy at the end of the bar drinking alone
looking so problematic.

“I thought people who go here want to have fun.” I told the bartender and pointed at the guy.

He laughed a little and said..

“His name is Chrome. He goes here often always looking like that for a while now. Don’t know his problem
though.”

I just looked at the guy named Chrome then suddenly he comes up to me.

“Do you have problem with me?” he asked. I can sense that he’s already drunk.

“Pardon?” I said.

“I see that you’re looking at me.”

“Sorry. I didn’t mean to.”

“You like me don’t you.”

“No. It’s just you remind me of someone.”

“Sorry. He’s just really drunk.” the bartender told me and motioned the bouncer to go to our direction.

“Let’s go sir. You’re already drunk.” the bouncer told Chrome.


                                                                                                33
“Fine. Fine. I’ll go with you.” Chrome said.
                          ____________________________________________________

“Girls, I’ll go ahead.” I said to the twins.

“Are you sure?” Meredith asked.

“Yup.” I answered.

“Take care okay?” Miranda said.

“Okay. Thanks.”

I went out of the bar and saw the guy named Chrome about the cross the street. I suddenly saw a car passing
by about to hit him. I immediately run to him and pushed him. I saved him but when I was about to run, it was
too late. The car was too fast.

Theia
CHAPTER 12

I woke up hearing someone playing a tune very familiar to me but I can’t quite remember. I stood up and felt a
throbbing headache.

“You may want to lay down first.” the guy in front of me said with his thick English accent. He gave me
medicines and a glass of water.

“Thank you for saving me. I feel really guilty because that happened to you because I was really drunk.
Sorry.”he said.

“Huh? I don’t remember saving you.” I said to him.

“You saved me two days ago. You hit your head pretty hard so you were asleep for awhile. I’m Chrome.
You’re right now in my house. You are?”

“I’m.. I’m..” I said.

I don’t remember. Who am I?

“You don’t remember? Don’t worry we’ll go back to the hospital tomorrow. Oh by the way, here. I bought
you clothes. I know my clothes are too big for you.” Chrome said then smiled as he hand me a paper bag.

“Thanks.”

                                                                                               34
“Just stay here for a while until you regain your memory. You may want to eat first before going back to
rest. Wait, I’ll just get you some food.”

He was about to stand up but I said..

“No. It’s okay. I can stand up. I'll just change and then we'll eat together.”
                         ____________________________________________________

“Oh, by the way here are your things.” Chrome gave me a small green purse.

As I looked the contents, all I saw was powder, lipstick and a ring.

“Thanks.” I said.

“By the way, your phone got smashed that’s why it isn’t there.” Chrome said.

“It’s okay. I don’t know who to call anyway.” I said.

“You really don'r remember anything?”

“No. I just remember waking up here in your house.”

“Don't worry. You'll remember things sooner or later.”
                       ____________________________________________________

“Hello? Is this Raine’s fiancé Lloyd?”

“Yes. Who’s this?” Lloyd answered his phone.

“This is Raine’s landlady. She’s been missing for about 3 days already. She never told me that she’d be out
for a long time. Her friends told me that the last time they saw her was in a bar 3 days ago. I tried calling her
phone but she’s not answering.”
                         ____________________________________________________

“What do you think is my name?” I said to Chrome as I went in the house from the garden.

Chrome has this nice and cozy house. By the looks of the area, I’m in a province.

“Sorry. I was just bored.” I said to Chrome as I saw him cleaning his camera lenses.


                                                                                                 35
“It’s okay.” Chrome answered.

“You’re a photographer?” I asked Chrome.

“Yes. I’m a fashion photographer.”

“Interesting.” I said then smiled.

“What if your name was Nicole?” Chrome said.

“Too common. I think my name is unique. Like Xyna or Laviet.”

“Or Theia.”

“Theia, I like that name. Maybe that was my name.”

“Then from now on until you remember your real name I’ll call you Theia.” he said.

“That made sound so childish, you know picking a name.”

“You think so too?” Chrome and I started laughing.

I don’t remember this Chrome guy but it is as if I have known him for a while now.
                       ____________________________________________________

“Lloyd, is there something wrong?” Sarah asked Lloyd.

“Raine is missing. I need to go to London as soon as possible.” Lloyd said.

Classic Case
CHAPTER 13

“Sorry I was just able to cook just this much. You seem to have not that a lot of food left in your frig.” I said
to Chrome.

It looks like he had just woken up.

“You shouldn’t have cooked. You’re still weak from what happened.” Chrome said.

“No. It’s okay. I feel fine already. And it’s the least I can do for you letting me stay here.”

“I’m doing this because you saved me and I know you don’t have someone to go right now so it’s okay.”
                                                                                                  36
                          ____________________________________________________

“Let’s go.” Chrome said.

“Where are we going?”

“To the doctor and also to buy some clothes.”
                       ____________________________________________________

“Good thing you’re here already. I’m really worried about Raine.” Raine’s landlady told Lloyd as he arrives in
London and in Raine’s room.

“I’ll take it from here. I’ll find her myself. Thank you very much for your concern.” Lloyd said.

The landlady then leaves.

“So this is her house. It’s warm and cozy just like her.”Lloyd said to himself.

He is worried and bothered about Raine’s disappearance. But what happened last time they talked before
Raine disappeared still bothers him. Did she disappeared because of what happened?

“Yuhu! Raine! It’s us.”

The doorbell suddenly rings. Lloyd opens the door.

“Excuse me? Do you need something?” Lloyd as asked the two girls in front him.

“Uhm. Is Raine home? We haven’t heard from her in a while.” one of the girls said.

“I’m Meredith and this is Miranda my twin sister. We’re friends of Raine. We’re also classmates.” the other
girl said.

“I’m Lloyd his fiancé. You may want to come in.” Lloyd said.

“You're that fiancé of hers who's career is more important than Raine. But wait, where is Raine?”Miranda
said.

“ I'm know I'm guilty of that but there's a more important thing to resolve than that. Raine is missing and I
don't where she went.” Lloyd said.

“Missing? How can that happen?” Meredith said.

                                                                                                    37
“She had been missing for about 4 days already. I don’t know where to find her. I came all the way from the
Philippines just to find her.”

“The last time we saw her was the night of the graduation. We decided to go to the bar and celebrate but I
know she left early. Unless..”

“Unless what?”

“Because I heard this news the next morning, when I passed by the bar that there was this girl who said to
save this drunken guy and was rushed to the hospital. But no.. I don’t think it’s Raine. At least I hope it’s not
her.”

“Can you tell me where that bar is? I want to make sure that the girl you are talking about is not Raine.”

“We’ll just go with you. We too are very worried about Raine.”

“Thank you.” Lloyd said.
                       ____________________________________________________

“She has Dissociative Fugue Amnesia. It is common in fictional stories but it is actually a rare disorder
characterized by reversible amnesia for personal identity, including the memories, personality and other
identifying characteristics of individuality.” the doctor said.

“For how long doctor will this amnesia last?” I asked.

“It may last up to hours or days but can it can also last for months or even longer.”

“Is there a way she can remember things faster?” Chrome asked.

“There are therapies and also a medication to help her remember faster but those can not totally bring back
her memory.” the doctor said.
                       ____________________________________________________

“Are you okay Lloyd?” asked Meredith.

“I’m okay. I just thought I saw Raine.” Lloyd answered.

“Let’s go. We could ask the nurse there.” Miranda said as they walk inside the hospital that was said to be the
place the girl who had an accident was taken too.
                        ____________________________________________________

                                                                                                 38
“Well. There’s still one girl who got hit by a car for saving this one drunken guy.” the Nurse said.

“Is the girl’s name Raine Mallari?” Lloyd asked.

“There's no name here even the guy she saved. But based on the records here, she was dismissed two days
prior to the accident.”

“Do you know where she was taken?”

“Sorry but that’s all I know.”

“Thank you very much for your help.” Meredith said.

“Lloyd, you might want to get the help of the police now.”Miranda said.

“You’re right.” Lloyd answered.
                        ____________________________________________________

“Pick all the clothes you want.” Chrome said when we were in a boutique.

“Chrome, why are you helping me?”

“I owe you my life. Remember?”

“Chrome, this is too much. First the therapies, now this. I don’t want to bother you anymore. Even though
it’s hard I’ll just try to remember things even though it would be a slow process. Also the clothes at home
are enough. And don’t reason that you owe me your life. Because it is already paid since I owe you my life
too.”

Stylist Turned Model
CHAPTER 14

“You’re going out?” I asked Chrome.

“Yes. I have a photoshoot.” he answered.

“Oh okay.” I said.

Another boring day, I really need to find a job to help Chrome and to be able to do something.

“Theia?” Chrome said as I was about to go back to my room.


                                                                                                 39
“Yes?” I asked.

“Do you want to come? It’s just that I know you’ll just be bored here.”
                    ____________________________________________________

“Chrome! I haven’t seen you in a while.” A familiar looking girl who’s beautiful and tall approaches Chrome
and kissed him on the cheek.

“Benina, nice to see you again.” Chrome said.

“Man, you look awful. Drinking again? Stop it will ya. Stefanie is not worth your time and love.”

“I know. That’s why I’m trying very hard to forget her but I can’t.”

“I understand. Just take care of yourself okay?”

She then sees me.

“Well, hello. Who do we have here?”

“You’re Benina Valdez. That’s why you look familiar. You’re in most of Chrome’s pictures.”

“Well, Chrome here is my favorite photographer. We go along way.” she said then smiled.

“She’s Theia. It’s a long story. I’ll tell you later.”
                         ____________________________________________________

“What an ill fate.” Benina said as Chrome finished the story about what happened to me.

“Let’s start already.” Chrome told Benina.

As Benina walks toward the set Chrome notices something is wrong.

“There’s something wrong with the outfit.” Chrome said.

“Too much accessories.” I suddenly blurted out. I don’t know but I just said it.

“She’s right.” Benina said.

“And the color of shoes doesn't go with the dress.” I added.


                                                                                              40
“Wow Chrome. You’re friend here has good eye for fashion. I remember the time when I was just like her
when I was an intern for a fashion stylist.”
                       ____________________________________________________

“Why did you become model instead of a fashion stylist? Just curious.” I asked Benina while we are eating
lunch.

“Well, I love fashion styling but it’s not working for me. And modeling is really my first love.”

“Oh.”

“How’s Chrome? I know you’ve just met and you’re not really close but I just want to know how he is these
days.”

“He’s okay. These days since I stayed with him I haven’t seen him drink.”

“Thank God. You know Chrome and I are childhood friends. We grew up together so I treat him as a brother
as he treats me as a sister. I’m just worried because of what the female dog did to him.”

“Stefanie?”

“Let’s keep this between you and me. Chrome would get mad if he knew I told you this one but Stefanie
was a model too. She is a female dog. But Chrome can’t see that and he fell in love with her. Unfortunately,
Stefanie used Chrome to be a famous model. Stefanie and Chrome had a relationship. Then Stefanie got
pregnant with Chrome’s baby but because it was the peak of her career and she’s done using Chrome, she
aborted the baby and left Chrome even though Chrome asked Stefanie to marry him.”

“So that's why he was drinking when I saved him. What a tragic story.”

“A tragic story fit for a drama. That’s our little secret okay?”

“Yes. I will keep it a secret.”

“I trust you. Let’s go. Pick an outfit for me. Tsk. You’re even better than the stylists here.”
                          ____________________________________________________

“It’s a wrap everybody.” Chrome said.

“Thank God. I’m tired already. Bye Chrome. Bye Theia.”Benina said as she kisses Chrome cheek then mine.

“Bye.” I said.


                                                                                                    41
“See you when I see you. I’d be off to the Philippines next month. They’ve invited me for some fashion
shows and for magazine covers too. Also for vacation, I heard there are a lot of nice beaches there.”

“You may want to want try Boracay and Palawan. They have the whitest sand beaches.” I suddenly blurted
out. I don’t know how I knew that but I just did.

“Wow. You knew that? Maybe you’re from there. You accent is very English but judging from how you look
maybe you are from there.”

“Maybe I am.” I just smiled.

Azalea's
CHAPTER 15

I was cleaning the house one morning. I just wanted to help around the house since I’ve been living here for
free. And also I’m planning to look for a job later. I was cleaning when something went in my eyes. So I went to
the bathroom to rinse my eyes. I was surprised because while I was rinsing my eyes Chrome suddenly came
out of the shower. I immediately turned around.

“Uhm. The towel.” Chrome said. He was surprised too because he immediately went inside the shower again
when he saw me. He even blushed, well we both blushed.

“Here.” I said as I handed he the towel while looking away.

“Sorry. I didn’t know you were here. Something went in my eye so I came here to rinse it. Don’t worry I
didn’t see anything. And you may want to lock the door if you're inside the bathroom.” I said then
immediately went out of the bathroom
                       ____________________________________________________

Because of that situation, I just left a note for him then went out to find a job. I looked everywhere willing to
take any job but still no luck.

Then fortunately, when I was getting some food to eat, I saw this girl struggling with the cups of coffee she
was holding

“Let me help you.” I said to the girl.

“Thanks.” she said.

I followed her to this store across the café.

Azalea’s


                                                                                                   42
The sign said.

“Just placed those here. Thanks.” the girl said.

“You’re welcome. But can I ask you one question?”

“Sure.”

“What is this store? Why are there many designer clothes here?” I asked.

“Oh. It’s like a styling house. People and even celebrities come to this store when they need to attend an
important event. There are only 2 branches of Azalaea’s. One in New York and one here in London.”

Then suddenly a woman went inside.

“Good afternoon Ms. Carina.” the girl immediately said to the woman.

“Good afternoon Bella. Is she the new assistant stylist?”Ms. Carina said pertaining to me.

“No. Ms. The new assistant stylist never showed up.” Bella answered.

“But I want to be. I want to work here as an assistant stylist.” I said.

“Very well. Let me see how you good you are. In 10 minutes, come up with three looks. An office, cocktail
party and a biker chic look. You can use any of the clothes here.” Ms. Carina said.

So I did.
                        ____________________________________________________

“The office look is chic. The cocktail party look is also okay just tone down the black so that it doesn’t look
too much Halloween-ish. Lastly, the biker chic look, wonderful. What’s your name?” Ms. Carina said as she
looked at the clothes I managed to put together in 10 minutes.

“Theia.” I said.

“Well, Theia. Welcome to Azalea’s.”
                     ____________________________________________________

“Raine! Where are you? Please.” Lloyd whispered as he was asking people and letting them look at Raine’s
picture.


                                                                                                 43
A few weeks have already passed and even the police can’t find her.

“We are doing everything to find her.” they always say.

Everything suddenly went black for Lloyd and he collapsed.

“Mister? Mister? Wake up.”
                     ____________________________________________________

“Just eat. It’s on me. I don’t want you collapsing in the streets again. What happened? It’s like you haven’t
eaten in ages.” Benina said to Lloyd.

“ I’m looking for my girlfriend.” Lloyd said.

“Why? Did she leave you? It’s hard to find somebody who doesn’t want to be found.” Benina said.

“It’s my fault. I should’ve gone to her graduation. I was too stubborn. I became so caught up with my work
especially when she went here to study fashion styling.”

“Men and their work. Don’t worry. You’ll find her. Sorry but I need to go. I still need to do some last minute
packing. By the way, I’m Benina.” said Benina as she extends her hand.

“I'm Lloyd. Thank you very much.” Lloyd said as they shook hands.
                       ____________________________________________________

“Chrome! I got a job.” I said as I went inside the house.

I saw Chrome looking sad as he was in the living looking at his phone.

“Oh. Theia, you’re home.” Chrome said.

“I got a job as an assistant stylist. I can now repay you and get a house or even an apartment of my own.”

I sense that there is something bothering him.

“What’s wrong Chrome? You look worried.”

“Oh it’s nothing. Don’t mind me.”

Love, What Have You Done?
CHAPTER 16

“Étoile! Étoile! Please don’t go! Please! Don’t leave me!”

                                                                                               44
“Theia! Theia wake up!” Chrome said as I open my eye and saw him beside me.

“You were shouting so I immediately went in your room to wake you up. Are you okay now?” he added.

“Yes. Thank you. I just had a bad dream.” I said.

“You were shouting something. I think it was étoile. Does that sound familiar to you? You may remember
something from that word?”

I thought hard. It doesn’t ring a bell but suddenly thought of a man playing a piano with a girl seated beside
him flashed.

“Did you remember something?” Chrome asked.

“A thought just flashed in my head.” I said.

“What was it?”

“There’s this guy playing the piano singing and he was singing to this girl that looked like me.”

“Is the guy familiar to you?”

“The guy face was blurred. I can’t see his face.”

“It’s okay. You’ll remember more as the time passes.”Chrome said as he patted my back gently.
                            ____________________________________________

“Lloyd! You need to come back here as soon as possible. You’ve been gone for awhile now and it’s not
good.” Sarah said to Lloyd on the phone.

“Sarah, Raine is missing and I need to find her.” Lloyd answered.

“I know it is your duty to find her and you love her very much but you also have responsibilities here. I
already booked you a ticket. You’re going back here tomorrow.”
                              ____________________________________________

“Theia, go with Beatrice to the fashion magazine shoot. Also, I suggest you do something with that look of
yours. Even assistant stylist should look sophisticated and chic.” Ms. Carina told me.

So I did.

                                                                                                 45
“Ciao Bella! Comme va?”

Suddenly a man approached me when I was fixing the clothes for the shoot.

“Raine! Long time no see.” he said.

“Sorry. But I don’t remember you.” I said to the man.

“Non si ricorda di me? Mi è Giovanni. (You don’t remember me? It’s Giovanni)”

“Mi dispiace. Ma io non ti conosco. (I am sorry. But I don’t know you)” I answered.

Woah. Where did that come from? I speak Italian?

“Mi dispiace. Ho pensato che fosse mia amica. Hai un aspettomolto simile a lei. (I thought you were my
friend. You look very much like her.)”

“E 'bene. A proposito, mi chiamo Theia. (It’s okay. By the way, I’m Theia)”

“Mi chiamo Giovanni. Piachere! (I’m Giovanni. Nice to meet you)”

“Piachere.”

“Theia! Let’s go.” Beatrice suddenly pulled me.
                             ____________________________________________

“Wow. You take gorgeous pictures Giovanni. They are really magnificent.” I told Giovanni while other people
are taking a break and Giovanni was looking at the pictures taken.

“You’re the second person to say that second to my friend Raine. Thank you very much.”

“But it is true.”

“Wait, I have an idea.”

Giovanni pulled my hand gently and lead me to the front of the camera where the models take their picture.

“Just have fun.” he said.

So I just smile then posed and posed. I had fun. I felt like I was kid again.

                                                                                             46
                               ____________________________________________

After the shoot, I went home.

“What’s wrong with you? I though we’re already through. You are the one who ended it remember?”

I suddenly heard Chrome and a girl fighting as I went inside the house.

“Please Chrome I made a mistake.”

“A mistake. So, you aborting our baby was a mistake? You killed our child Stefanie.”

I went to the living room where I heard the voices were coming from. I was shocked to see the living room was
a wreck and Chrome bleeding because of a wound on top of his left eyebrow.

“What’s going on Chrome?” I said.

“Who is this girl Chrome? Is she your new bi---?” Stefanie said.

“Stop it Stefanie.” Chrome said.

Stefanie suddenly shrieks and throws a vase at Chrome but I immediately pushed him and the vase shattered
leaving me with a bleeding leg.

“Stefanie! I’m not the one who ended our relationship. You did. I don’t love you anymore. Just go. I don’t
want to see your face anymore.” Chrome said.
                            ____________________________________________

“My leg is already okay. Don’t worry Chrome.” I said to Chrome while he was tending my wound.

“I’m so sorry.” Chrome said.

“It’s okay. Come here. You're wound. It might get infected.

“Thank you.”

“Stop saying thank you okay. It’s nothing. There. It’s okay already.” I said as I put on the bandage on the
wound.

“Thank you still.” Chrome then looks straight to my eyes.

My heart started to race. Then suddenly, Chrome held my cheek and then kissed me.

I was taken aback so I pushed him gently.
                                                                                                47
“Sorry I..” I said.

“No. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have done that.”

“I better prepare dinner. I’m already hungry.” I immediately went to the kitchen.

Going and Moving
CHAPTER 17

“Ouch.”

Lloyd bumped into someone in the airport.

“Sorry. I didn’t mean.. Benina!” Lloyd said as he recognized the girl in front of him.

“Lloyd!” Benina answered.

“Sorry. I wasn’t looking.”

“It’s okay. Have you seen your girlfriend yet?”

“No. I haven’t but I need to go back to the Philippines because of some things.”

“What a coincidence. I’m going to the Philippines too for some shoots and runway shows.”

Flight 4231 to Manila is now boarding.
                            ____________________________________________

The next day was awkward but there’s something weird about Chrome that day.

“Sit down. Breakfast is ready.” Chrome said.

“You’re up early.”

The table was set with even a small vase with roses in the middle.

“I just wanted to cook that’s all.”

“Really?”

“I didn’t know cooking was hard. I just order out or just eat outside that’s why I don’t always cook here.”

                                                                                               48
“Let I be the judge then if you’re a good cook.” I joked.

I took a bite from the eggs benedict he cooked.

“How is it?”

“It’s good. Here. Let’s eat.”

“About last night..”

“Don’t mind it. Just forget it happened.”
                              ____________________________________________

“Theia, Silver Florence would go here later to pick a dress for the Music Awards. I would like you to assist
her to pick one. Okay? Theia? Are you listening?” Charlene, one of the senior stylists said to me.

“Sorry. What were you saying?”

“It’s like your mind is somewhere else. Why is there something wrong?” she asked.

“Don’t mind me. I was just thinking about something. Charlene, do you know an apartment unit I can rent?”

“Yeah. There’s one in my apartment building. Are you looking for one?”

“Yes. Can you give me the number of the owner there?”

“Sure. Here.” She gave me a piece of paper with the number.

“Thanks.”

“No prob. Remember okay? Silver Florence would go here later to pick a dress for the Music Awards. You
are the one who’ll assist her.”
                             ____________________________________________

I knocked on the door of Chrome’s room. It turned the doorknob and it was opened so I went in.

I think that possibly maybe I'm falling for you. Yes there’s a chance that I've fallen quite hard over you..

I saw Chrome playing the piano. My heart started beating faster again.


                                                                                                 49
“You’re home.” Chrome said as he turns around to face me.

“I’m sorry. Your room was open and I just wanted to talk to you about something.” I said.

My eyes started to wander around the room and then I saw a wall with all my pictures, pictures I didn’t know
Chrome took of me.

“What is it?” Chrome asked.

“Can we talk about it in the living room?”
                             ____________________________________________

“Chrome, thank you for everything but I think it’s time for me to move out. I already found a place I could
stay in. You've done enough and as I said I thank you for that. You’ve been nothing but kind and generous
to me and I no longer want to be a burden to you.” I told to Chrome.

“Is this because of the kiss? I thought we should forget it already. But if it is I know it was out of place and
I’m sorry.” Chrome said.

“No Chrome. Don’t ever think about that. As I said, I just don’t want to be a burden to you anymore. And I
don’t want it to be awkward for you if you bring home your future girlfriend here in your house.”

“But my future girlfriend is already living in this house.”

A Month
CHAPTER 18

“Lloyd, go to the party later. I no longer want you bailing out when it comes to your responsibilities.” Sarah
called Lloyd early in the morning.

“Yes Sarah.” Lloyd answered.

“Before you were so eager to work. I no longer need to remind you of your schedule. What’s happening to
you Lloyd? Everything went downhill ever since you came back. I thought you love what you are doing?
What happened to the Lloyd Flores I knew and everybody loved?”

“Please Sarah.”

“Just go later okay?”
                             ____________________________________________

A month has already passed ever since I woke up that morning remembering nothing about whom I am or
where I came from. I still don’t remember a lot from my past. But I love my present life. I’m still working in

                                                                                                  50
Azalea’s. I also have a new look recommended by Ms. Carina. My long hair is gone, well not really gone but
shortened a bit and with side-swept bangs.

Well when it comes to Chrome..

“No Chrome. Don’t ever think about that. As I said, I just don’t want to be a burden to you anymore. And I
don’t want it to be awkward for you if you bring home your future girlfriend here in your house.”

“But my future girlfriend is already living in this house.”Chrome said then smiled.

That also made me smile a bit.

“Theia, I think that possibly maybe I'm falling for you. Yes there’s a chance that I've fallen quite hard over
you.”

“Chrome, that a song.” I joked.

“But Theia, seriously. I think I’m falling for you. I know we’ve just met. I know I don’t know you too well,
well you too you don’t know yourself well either. I’m not forcing you to love me back. All I’m asking from
you is to just let me love you.”

I still left and rented the apartment. I don’t know. I just think things would get complicated if I stayed there.
But Chrome and I, still get together and hang out. Let’s just say Chrome is really eager.
                               ____________________________________________

“Where’s that boyfriend of yours? He’s not taking you to lunch?” asked Joan, a senior stylist.

“No. He has a shoot today and we're just dating. You know getting to know each other and stuff.” I
answered.

“It's the same thing. Be careful though. Who ever he is, is hot lots of girls would try to steal him from you.”

“Joan!”

We started laughing.

“What does he do anyway?” Joan asked.

“He’s a fashion photographer.”

“That means he’s around beautiful models a lot.”

                                                                                                    51
“Joan, stop it!”
                             ____________________________________________

“What a boring party. Let’s go Lloyd.” Deanna said.

“Stop it Deanna. We just got here. Don’t be so killjoy. And Sarah would scold me again if I don’t stay
here.” Lloyd said to Deanna.

“What are you 6?”

“I said stop it Deanna.”

“They’re right. Pagkabalik mo nga sa London nawalan ka na nga ng kwenta. Diyan ka na nga.”
                            ____________________________________________

“I thought you’re looking for your girlfriend. Who was that?” Benina said.

“Benina! You again. Fancy meeting you here.” Lloyd said.

“Fancy meeting you here. You didn’t tell me you are a big star here.”

“You didn’t tell me you are a famous model.”

“Hehe. So who was that? The female dog you are partnered with slash pretend girlfriend? Well, I did my
research.”

Lloyd started to laugh.

“Don’t mind her. So have you found your girlfriend?”

“Unfortunately, no. I already hired a P.I. but still nothing.”

“As I said, you’ll find her. I can feel it. As for tonight, you should have fun. And also fix your tie. Wait. Let me
fix it for you. There.” Benina said as she fixes Lloyd’s tie.

“Thanks.” Lloyd blushes a little.

“Did you just blushed? Just joking. Man! You still look awful. You need a stylist. ”

“My girlfriend used to be my stylist back then but you know I'm still looking for her.”

“Poor guy. If I wasn’t a model, I would volunteer to be your stylist but modeling is my first love. Don’t
worry. I have a friend who is a stylist. She’s coming here from London together with my childhood friend.
She can be your stylist. At least temporarily.”

                                                                                                    52
“No. It’s too much.”

“Don’t mind it. I just like helping people.”

Manila, I'm Coming Home
CHAPTER 19

“Yes. We know. We’ll call you as soon as possible okay?” Chrome told Benina on the phone.

Benina invited Chrome for some big time shoots in the Philippines. While I, was forced by Benina to go with
Chrome. Good thing Ms. Carina allowed me but with a condition that instead of her going to the Philippines I’d
be the one to contact and negotiate with designers there. We’d be staying there for a week.

“Benina..” Chrome said.

“She never changes.” I added.
                           ____________________________________________

“Drinks sir? Oh. Sorry sir. I didn’t know your girlfriend was sleeping already.” the flight stewardess told
Chrome as she saw Theia was already sleeping with her head on top of Chrome’s shoulder.

“It’s okay.” Chrome answered.

“Do you want to get me to get you another pillow sir? You may get tired since it’s a 12 hour flight.”

“No. Thank you it's okay.”
                             ____________________________________________

“Theia, wake up.”

I noticed I been sleeping with my head on top of Chrome’s shoulder.

“Sorry and thank you too.” I said then smiled at him.

Chrome understands immediately what I meant.

“Ladies and gentlemen welcome to Manila.” the flight stewardess announced.
                          ____________________________________________

“Welcome to Manila Ma’am, Sir.” the cab driver said who seems to be so enthusiastic.

“Thank you.” I answered.
                                                                                                 53
“Where Ma’am?”

I told the cab driver the name of the hotel where we’ll be staying in.

“Right away Ma’am.” the cab driver answered.
                          ____________________________________________

As we step down in front of the hotel, I somewhat felt I belong here, here in the Philippines. I felt anticipation
and fulfillment that I was here again.

“Welcome Sir, Ma’am.” the receptionist said.

We decided to just rest in our own separate rooms and just order room service but Benina was really
enthusiastic. She invited us for dinner as soon as she found out we’re here already. She said it was to welcome
us.
                              ____________________________________________

“How’s the flight?” Benina asked.

“It was okay. Tiring but fine.” Chrome said.

“How about you Theia? How’s work?”

“Fine. I love working as an assistant stylist in Azalea’s.”

“Happy to hear that. I have lots of work in line for you Chrome. You’ll not regret coming all the way here
and to you too Theia. My friend needs a temporary stylist and I think you’d be perfect for the job.”

“Thank you Benina but I still need to fix some things for Ms. Carina before I can do that. Ms. Carina asked
me to talk to some designers on behalf of Azalea’s.”

“It’s okay. I would even help you. I’ve been here for only a month but I came to know some designers
already.”

“Sure. Thanks.”

“Let’s eat.” Chrome said as the food was placed the table.

The Meeting
CHAPTER 20

I woke up the next day because I heard a loud knock.



                                                                                                   54
“Good morning!” Benina said.

Benina, enthusiastic as ever.

“Good morning Benina come in.” I said.

“Let’s go. I’ll accompany you to the designers. Don’t worry Theia, you’ll get used to the time difference after
awhile.” Benina said as she sat on top of the bed and I got ready.
                             ____________________________________________

“We’ll take a cab to the stores of the designers.” Benina said.

“Wait, I’ll just tell Chrome that we’re going already.” I said.

“No need. I already told him and he woke up early for he has a shoot.”

“Oh. Okay.” I said as we went out of the hotel and get inside a cab.
                            ____________________________________________

“I can sense something.” Benina said.

“Sense what?” I said.

“I can sense that there’s something going on between you and Chrome.”

“Chrome and I are close friends there's nothing wrong with that.”

“That’s not what I heard.”

“Then what did you hear?”

“That Chrome is wooing you.”

“Wooing? Isn’t that old-fashioned?”

“No honey. It is not. Chrome likes you. You go out on dates don’t ya?”

“We eat lunch together. He always takes me home. He also takes me out to dinner.”

“Those are considered dates honey. But do you like Chrome back?”


                                                                                               55
“I don’t know. Maybe.”

“Don’t worry about it. Chrome is the kind of guy who is easy to love.”
                           ____________________________________________

“Tara!” Benina said to the girl as we arrived at the last designer I need to contact.

“Benina! Nice to see you again.” Tara answered.

“You too. By the way, Tara this is Theia. Theia, this is Tara. She’s the designer behind Bonjour Belle!”

“Nice to meet you. I’m from Azalae’s.” I said.

“Nice to meet you too. Ah. Azalea’s, the styling boutique. Carina told me about you already. Here come with
me. I show you the dresses.”
                           ____________________________________________

“A month had passed already. Still no news about Raine?” Lloyd told the person on the other side of the line.

“Sorry Sir. I’m really trying my best to find your girlfriend. But I have news. I just don’t know if it’s bad or
good for you.” the guy on the other line answered.

“Just tell me about it.”

“Sir, I tried going back to the bar. Luckily I was able to talk a bartender there. That bartender said that he
remember seeing your girlfriend. And he’s sure that your girlfriend was the one who saved the drunken guy
and got hit by the car. He added that the time when you came looking for your girlfriend, he wasn’t around
that’s why he wasn’t able to help you. He also told me that he knew the guy your girlfriend saved. He knew
him as Chrome.”
                              ____________________________________________

“We’re done. Thanks Benina.” I told Benina.

“Well, it’s my turn. It’s still early so why don’t you accompany me to my shoot?” Benina said.

“Sure. Why not?”
                             ____________________________________________

“Good afternoon everybody!” Benina said.

We arrived in a studio.

                                                                                                    56
“It’s a photoshoot for a perfume. You’d be the one who’ll pick my clothes okay?” Benina whispered to me.

“I don’t know. I think they already have their own stylist.”

“Don’t worry. I’m good friends with the photographer. Just ask for the theme of the shoot the go ahead pick
clothes for me okay?”

I had no choice but so say yes.

I was fixing Benina’s looks when suddenly I heard a familiar voice. My heart started to beat fast again.

“Lloyd! Nice to see you again. I didn’t know we’d be working together.” I heard Benina said to someone.

“Benina, nice to see you again. Me too.” someone said.

His voice sent shivers down my spine.

“Wait, I’ll introduce you to someone.” Benina said then pulls me gently to face the guy.

“Lloyd, this is my stylist friend Theia. Theia, this is Lloyd. He’s a famous star here.”

“Hello! Nice to meet you.” I said as I extended my hand for him to shake it.

I don’t know why but he suddenly looks flabbergasted that it is as if he had seen a ghost.

“Lloyd?” Benina said.

“Sorry. Hi! Nice to meet you too.” Lloyd answered as he takes my hand and gave it a little shake.
                            ____________________________________________

“One hour dinner break.” the photographer said.

“Don’t worry. I already told Chrome you’d be going home late.” Benina said.

“Benina..” I said.

“He has the right to know.” Benina joked.

Suddenly, Lloyd approaches us and sat beside me to also eat.


                                                                                                 57
“Theia, she’s the one I was telling you about. He needs a temporary stylist. You know to boost up his career
again. No offense Lloyd.”

“I understand. I know I’m a mess. My life’s a mess right now.”

“Lloyd is looking for his missing girlfriend.”

“Really? Why? Did something happen to her?”

“It’s a long story.”

“So is it okay for you Lloyd if Theia would be your temporary stylist? At least for a week since she’d be going
back to England next week.”

“Sure no prob.”

“You Theia?”

“Sure. You helped me so I’ll help you too Benina.”

“It’s settled then.”
                              ____________________________________________

“You said you are from London?” Lloyd said.

I was startled.

“Sorry to I didn’t mean..”

“It’s okay. Yes. I work as a stylist in a styling boutique.”

“You look like someone I know.”

“You’re the second person who said that to me.”

“Who’s the first person?”

“An Italian photographer named Giovanni.”

“Oh. Uhm. Theia..”

“Yes?”

“Does the name Raine ring a bell to you?”

                                                                                               58
A Day with the Past
CHAPTER 21

“She really looks like Raine even with the hair of hers like that but he accent. Yet she came from London
where Raine lived for a while.” Lloyd thought as he was thinking about what happened yesterday.

“Does the name Raine ring a bell to you?”

“Raine? Sorry no. Why?” asked Theia.

“Nothing.”
                            ____________________________________________

“Sir, what is it?”

“Stop looking for Raine first. I want you to know everything about a girl from London named Theia
Duval.” Lloyd told the person on the other line.

“Why change plans all of a sudden?” the person on the other line answered.

“Just do it.”

“Okay sir. I’ll give you her information as soon as possible.”
                               ____________________________________________

I was going down stairs to get breakfast when I saw Chrome going down too.

“Good morning.” Chrome greeted me.

“Good morning. So how’s work here?” I answered.

“It’s great actually. Lots of nice people. You? Have you done what Carina told you to do?”

“Yup. Benina helped me to finish them all yesterday. I didn’t know there are lots of great designers here.”

“Oh. By the way, here.” Chrome said as he hands me a box.

“What is this for?”

“Just open it.”


                                                                                              59
I opened the box to see a diamond encrusted heart necklace.

“My photo yesterday was for a jewelry ad. There I saw that necklace. When I saw it, I immediately thought
of you so I bought it.”

“Chrome..”

I was touched.

“But I can’t take it. It’s too much.”

“Don’t say that. Just take it.” Chrome said as he took the necklace and placed it on me.

“Thank you.” I just said and gave him a kiss on the cheek.
                             ____________________________________________

“I need to go. Benina gave me this job so that I have something to do. I’d be a stylist for a star and I’m
meeting him today.” I told we were hanging out by the pool.

“Him?” Chrome answered.

“Chrome..“

“I know. I know.”

“His name is Lloyd Flores, the guy I'm working for. Chrome, I really need to go.”

“When will you be back?”

“I don’t know. Sorry.”

“I’ll just pick you up after you’re finished. We’ll have dinner together. We haven’t had dinner ever since we
got here.”

“Fine. You’d just be staying here?”

“Yup.”

“Ok. I’ll just call you later.”
                                  ____________________________________________


                                                                                                 60
“Thanks for meeting me.” Lloyd said as we enter a mall.

“It’s my job remember. I’m your temporary stylist but I think you should find a stylist by now.”

“Don’t worry. I would,”

“Okay. Let's go.”
                               ____________________________________________

“Just sit down and relax. You seem tense.” I told Lloyd as I patted his shoulder.

“Sorry.”

“It’s okay. Let’s start. Just trust me okay?” I told Lloyd.

I called the hairstylist to start on Lloyd’s hair. The hairstylist was a bit startled to see that Lloyd was his
costumer.

“Shorten the hair. I want to emphasize his cheekbones and great jaw structure. I want to emphasize his
more on his great masculine look.” I told the hairstylist.
                             ____________________________________________

“You look great.” I said as I was covering Lloyd's eyes with both my hands.

“Really?”

“Why don't you see for yourself?”

I placed both of my hands down and then he opened his eyes.

“What do you think?”

“I look different but I like it.” Lloyd said.

“I’m glad you liked it. Let’s work on your clothes next.”
                              ____________________________________________

“A mix of trendy and preppy, that would be your new style.”

“Like Chuck Bass?”

                                                                                                       61
“Somewhat like him but a bit tone down when it comes to the suits since it’s humid here in the Philippines.
Here. Try these.”
                          ____________________________________________

After shopping for clothes, we decided to call it a day.

“I think we are done for the day. Can you send me your schedule via the email I gave you? You know so that
I know where to go.” I told Lloyd.

“Oh sure. No problem.” he answered.

“Sorry. I need to go.”

“Do you want me to take you back to your hotel?”

“No. It’s okay. Someone would fetch me here.” I said.

Then I saw Chrome approaching us.

“There he is. Chrome! Here!”

“Traffic's really bad. I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay. By the way, Chrome this is Lloyd, the one I work for. Lloyd this is Chrome, he’s a good friend of
Benina. He’s also a fashion photographer.”

“Nice to meet you.” Chrome said.

“Nice to meet you too.” Lloyd answered.

“Excuse me but we need to go.” Chrome said.

“Wait, Lloyd do you want to eat dinner with us?”

“It’s okay. I might be ruining your date.”

“No. It’s okay. Right Chrome?”

“Yeah. It is. Join us. I really need a suggestion in finding a great restaurant here.”

“I know a great restaurant in that building, Bella Towers. It’s my favorite restaurant, great food, great
ambiance.”

“Sure. Let’s go there.”




                                                                                                62
The Truth About Belle and Étoile
CHAPTER 22

We were eating when I noticed that Lloyd kept looking at the necklace I was wearing, the one Chrome gave
me.

“Is there something wrong Lloyd?” I said to Lloyd.

“No. It’s okay. Well, did you like the food here?”

“We liked it. Thank you Lloyd.” Chrome said.

“Yeah. It’s so nice here. I actually feel that I even been to this restaurant.”
                               ____________________________________________

“Thanks.” I told Lloyd.

“It was nothing.” Lloyd answered.

“See you tomorrow.”

“See you tomorrow.”

“Bye! We need to go.”

“Bye. Nice meeting you Chrome.”

“Nice meeting you too.” Chrome said then we took a cab back to our hotel.
                           ____________________________________________

“Kamukha niya nga si Raine. Parang carbon copy.”

The girl in front of me whispered something to Lloyd something but I just heard the name Raine and the word
carbon copy.

“Sarah.. Uhm. Theia, by the way this Sarah my manager. Sarah, this is Theia. I decided to hire my own
stylist. But it would be just temporary since she’d be going back to London in 4 days.” Lloyd said.

“I’m just here because a friend of mine has some works here.” I said.

“Oh. It’s okay. Nice to meet you by the way.” she said.

                                                                                             63
“Nice to meet you too.”

“Oh, Lloyd you better get ready. The press-con for your TV drama is starting in an hour.”
                            ____________________________________________

It was amazing how Lloyd’s agency have this room for make-up and clothes for their talents.

“I’ll just pick you out some clothes.” I told Lloyd.

I went to the closet and got a v-neck t-shirt and a blazer for Lloyd to wear.
                             ____________________________________________

“Come here. I’ll just fix something.” I told Lloyd.

I looked at him to see if he looked okay, fixed his collar and the brush of the blazer for some lints. I was doing
that when I noticed he was looking at me again.

“Lloyd, is there something wrong?”

“Nothing. Why?”

“It’s just that I always notice that you are staring at me.”

“Sorry. I didn’t mean to. It’s just that you really look like someone I know.”

“It’s okay but it makes me feel insecure sometimes.”
                            ____________________________________________

“Feel free to ask the cast questions now.” Sarah said to the reporters.

One reported stood up.

“What’s with the new look Lloyd?” the reporter said.

“It was my stylist’s idea for me to have this look but I really like what she did. It’s something fresh and
new.”

After many questions, Sarah signaled for the last question.

“Lloyd, are the rumors true that you and Deanna had already split up?” said the reporter.

                                                                                                   64
“Before anything, I know many would be angry especially my manager after this but I think it is time to be
honest about everything.”

Lloyd took a deep breath.

“I really love acting but sadly my love for it affected a lot of things. I was a simple guy who loved this
amazing girl. We met in college and became a couple. I eventually became a celebrity and even though I
know it will be hard for her we kept our relationship secret. Then the issue came out. Actually the day
before the issue came out, I asked her to be my wife and she said yes. But the issue came out and it turned
everything upside down. The issue was a lie because Deanna and I never had any relationship whatsoever.
We’re just friends. But not many people believed it. And as many people of you know, my career went
downhill together with it.”

“Lloyd..” Sarah said.

“It’s okay Sarah.” said then paused a little.

“My fiancé, she wanted to help me so she left. She wanted me to go with her but my career was important
for me. You know, it was the biggest mistake of my life. Just to settle the issue, I decided to go along with it,
hurting everyone especially her and Deanna. And my career went back the way it should be. But I didn’t
know that it would have a great consequence. The love of my life is now missing. I can’t seem to find her. If
only I choose her over my career. If only I went to her graduation, she wouldn't be missing now.” Lloyd said
as he got a little teary-eyed.

Everyone was shocked with what Lloyd revealed. I know Lloyd is now relieved that the truth is out but at the
same time I can still see longing and sadness in his eyes. I suddenly felt that I needed to talk to him or just
listen to what he wants to say.
                              ____________________________________________

The press-con ended and as we are getting ready to go home I saw Lloyd getting inside his car.

“You had a long day. Come with me. Let’s eat.” I said to Lloyd.

Sparks Fly as Love is in the Air
CHAPTER 23

“Just eat. We don’t need to talk about what happened earlier.” I told Lloyd.

“Thanks again.”

“No problem. I just wish you find your girlfriend as soon as possible.”
                                                                                                 65
“I wish that too.”

“Let’s eat already. The food is getting cold.”
                            ____________________________________________

“You don’t eat meat?” Lloyd asked me.

“I just eat fish and chicken. I don’t know why but my stomach can’t take beef and pork.”

“You get indigestion?”

“Yeah. How did you know?”

“You’re just like the person I know. She gets indigestion when eating beef or pork so she just eats fish and
chicken but seafood is her favorite.”

“She?”

“My girlfriend.”

“Oh. But we really are the same. I love seafood especially shrimp and mussels.”
                            ____________________________________________

As I was about to go in my hotel room after having a late lunch, Chrome called me.

“Theia..”

“Hello Chrome. I want to talk to you but I need to a take a nap. I’m feeling a bit tired.” I said.

“Sure but is it okay if we go to dinner later?”

“Sure. No prob.”

“Is 7:30 okay?”

“Yes.”

“Okay, see you later.”
                             ____________________________________________


                                                                                                     66
I woke up at 7 then took a shower to get ready for tonight’s dinner. I put on my outfit and did some finishing
touches on my look just in time before our dinner.

“Ready?” Chrome said as he offers his arm.

“Yes.” I answered as I hold onto his arm.
                             ____________________________________________

“You remembered.” I said to Chrome.

“Remembered what?”

“That I like jazz.”

“Of course that’s why we went here. I really asked people to help me find a jazz restaurant.”

“Thanks.”

“You’re welcome.”
                              ____________________________________________

“We haven’t done this in a while.”

“You’re right. We became busy ever since we came here.”I answered.

“How’s work?” Chrome said.

“Fine. A bit tiring but you know it's what I like doing.” I said.

“I heard about what happened to Lloyd.”

“Yeah. Poor thing. He doesn’t want to talk about what happened but I know he’s hurting. I hope he finds
her girlfriend already.”

“Me too.”

“How about you? How’s your work?”

“Fine. The shoot today was fun. Oh, do you know I’d be shooting Lloyd and Benina together for a magazine
spread tomorrow?”

                                                                                                67
“I know he has a photoshoot but I didn’t know you’d be the photographer. That would be great.”

“It is.”
                              ____________________________________________

“Let’s dance.” Chrome said as extends his hand to me.

“Sure.” I said as I placed my hand over his.

A fast beat Korean jazz-pop song suddenly plays.

Lock me down lock me up, inside chain of love, tie me up tie me down, don’t let me run away, lock me down
lock me up, grip me with your eyes

We just danced and had fun.
                           ____________________________________________

“Thanks for the night.” I told Chrome.

“You’re welcome. Thank you too for having dinner with me.”

“Good night. See you tomorrow.”

I was about to go inside my hotel room when..

“Theia..” Chrome said.

“Yes?” I answered.

Chrome suddenly kisses me.
                              ____________________________________________

“What has gotten into your mind to invite me for a drink?” Benina said to Lloyd.

“I just want to talk to someone. Is that wrong?” Lloyd answered.

“I was just joking. You know you can call me anytime. So how are you? I saw everything on the news.”

“Can we not talk about it? I’m still in the process of taking it all in.”


                                                                                           68
“Sure. No problem.”

“Thanks. Benina..”

“Yes?”

“Can I ask you a question about Theia?”

“What about her?”

“Everything you know about her.”

“Theia, well, I know she saved Chrome for this car accident so she lost her memory. Chrome felt guilty and
also for thanking her, he let her stay in his house. That’s all I know.”

“How about Chrome and Theia? I mean are they..”

“Are they together? Well I know Chrome likes her and they’re getting to know each other and all but I know
Theia’s still not sure about her feelings for Chrome. What’s will all the questions?”

“Nothing. I’m just curious.”
                               ____________________________________________

“I better go. I’m feeling a bit tipsy already. You know we still have a shoot tomorrow afternoon.” Benina
said.

“Do you want me to take you home?” Lloyd said.

“No thanks. I can manage it.”

Benina started walking but she kept falling down so Lloyd helps her to get up and then carries her to his car.

“Let me take you home.” Lloyd said.

“Is it okay for you to drive?”

“Yes. Don’t worry.”
                               ____________________________________________

“Is this your house already?”

“Yup. Thanks for taking me home.”
                                                                                                 69
“Are you okay already?”

“Yup. Thank you. I can manage.”

“Good night.”

“Good night. Thanks again.”

Benina opens the door and then kisses Lloyd on the lips before coming out.

Forever and Almost Always
CHAPTER 24

“Sorry to wake you up Sir, but I already found some information about Theia Duval.” the other person on
the line said.

“What did you find out?” Lloyd asked.

“That she’s from a city near London. She works for a styling boutique named Azalea’s. She lived with a guy
named Chrome Lewis but she moved after awhile.”

“I know that already. Tell me something I don’t know.”

“Uhm. Sir, I learned that she suffered from amnesia ever since she saved Chrome Lewis from an accident.
From the picture I got from a colleague of hers, it seems like she looks like your girlfriend. By the look of it
and if you compare what happened to her and your girlfriend, Theia Duval is your missing girlfriend.”

“She suffered from amnesia. So that’s why she doesn’t remember me.” Lloyd said to himself.

“Sir?”

“Are you sure about that?”

“Yes sir.”

“Thank you. Your work is done. I’ll just deposit the full payment on your account.”
                           ____________________________________________

I still got the hangover from the kiss last night.

“Sweet dreams.” Chrome said as he breaks the kiss.


                                                                                                  70
“You too.” I answered then I went inside my room.

Clichéd as it may seem, last night, I slept with a smile on my face. I’m starting to like Chrome. I now believe
you can learn to like or love someone. It’s not for everyone but it’s possible. Well, what’s not to like about
Chrome. Aside from being sweet, he’s eager and really hardworking. I don’t get why that Stefanie even left
her.
                              ____________________________________________

“Hello Lloyd.” I greeted Lloyd as he entered the set for the shoot.

“Hi.” Lloyd answered.

“Feeling better?”

“A bit.”

“You’ll get better. Let’s go. They’re waiting for you. Benina is already there. She’s done with her hair and
make-up. Chrome is also nearly done preparing his things.”

“Chrome?”

“Did anyone tell you? He’s the photographer today.”

“Oh.”

“Let’s go.”
                              ____________________________________________

“Are you okay Benina?” I asked her while we were waiting for her turn to be shot by Lloyd since it was Lloyd’s
turn.

“Hangover. After the 5th shot of tequila, I no longer remember anything about last night.”

I took a bottle of fresh orange juice and gave it to her.

“You shouldn't have done that. You have a shoot today. Good thing you still look beautiful. Hehe. Drink this.
I heard vitamin C helps cure hangover.”

“Thanks.”

“No problem.”

                                                                                                   71
“What do you think about Lloyd?”

“Lloyd? Well, he’s a nice guy. He’s really strong too. I mean emotionally since he manages his problems
well. You know he’s going through a lot of stuff in his life alone but he’s still strong. Why do you ask?”

“Nothing.”

“You like him?”

Benina didn’t answer.

“You do like him.”

“But he loves his girlfriend very much.”

“Life, how cruel.” I said as I patted Benina’s shoulder gently.

“Benina!” Chrome called.
                             ____________________________________________

During the break, Lloyd was looking at Chrome and Theia will they are having a fun time taking pictures of
each other and just fooling around.

“Jealous?” Benina said as she appeared from behind.

“Why would I be jealous? I’m just thinking about something I’m not looking at them.” Lloyd said.

“Don’t be too defensive. I’m just kidding. Oh. Sorry about last night. I don't remember anything after the
5th shot of tequila and I don't know what happened afterwards but thank you and sorry again.”

“No problem.”

“By the way, how’s the search going?”

“I already found my girlfriend.”

“Huh? Really? Where is she?”

“You’ll know very soon.”
                             ____________________________________________

                                                                                                72
“If you don’t mind Chrome, Theia, before going back to London, I want to invite you to a party. It’s
somewhat a comeback slash thanksgiving slash going away party.” Lloyd said after he approaches us during
the break.

“Sure. It’s okay with me. You Chrome?” I said.

“Benina would be coming too.” Lloyd said.

“Sure. We’ll go.”

You Belle, Me Étoile
CHAPTER 25

“That’s a wrap everyone.” the director of Lloyd’s TV drama said.

“Thank you very much everyone. Everyone did great today.” Lloyd said.

“I better go now. I still have to fix something before going to your party.” I told Lloyd.

“Ok. See you later.”

“See you later.”
                              ____________________________________________

I together with Chrome and Benina arrived at Lloyd’s house that evening.

“Welcome. Come in.” Lloyd said as he welcomed us inside.

“Great place.” Benina said.

“Thanks.” Lloyd answered.

This house looks very familiar. Every detail looks familiar to me but I don’t know why.

“Are you okay Theia?” Chrome asked.

I suddenly felt dizzy.

“I’m just feeling a bit dizzy but I’m okay. Don’t mind me.”
                               ____________________________________________

“Excuse me everyone. May I get your attention?” Lloyd said.
                                                                                             73
Everyone’s eyes looked at Lloyd.

“Thank you very coming here. This past few years of my career and even my personal life is quite
disorganized. You may have noticed that very well but God really is great. He gave me another shot. You
guys did too. I really appreciate it. Thank you again. This time I won’t make the same mistakes anymore. I
will now follow my heart. Cheers to everyone!”
                             ____________________________________________

“Thanks for coming again.” Lloyd said.

“It’s nothing. It’s nice too since we’d be going back the day after tomorrow.” I said.

“The day after tomorrow?” Lloyd asked.

“Yup. Don’t worry. I know you are busy so with the help of Ms. Sarah we already looked for my
replacement. She’s coming tomorrow for me to teach how things go.”

I noticed Lloyd’s mood changed from happy to sad.

“Don’t worry. We can still contact each other still. Or maybe one day, I can go back here again.”
                            ____________________________________________

I saw Lloyd approaching his piano.

“Belle..” he said the started playing the piano and sang.

A very familiar melody. The familiar melody I heard Chrome was also playing when I woke up that morning
and knew that I had forgotten everything.

You touch these tired eyes of mine and map my face out line by line and somehow growing old feels fine. I
may not have the softest touch. I may not say the words as such and though I may not look like much. I’m
yours..

I suddenly felt like the world is spinning.

“Belle!” I heard a voice said to me.

“Étoile.” was all I said before everything went black.

Before the Worst
CHAPTER 26

“You may leave know Lloyd. Thank you very much for your help and concern.” Chrome told Lloyd as they
                                                                                              74
were waiting for the doctor.

“No. I won’t leave her. I won’t leave Raine. I won’t leave my fiancée.” Lloyd said.

“Raine? You’re fiancée? What are you talking about Lloyd?” Benina said.

“Theia’s real name is Raine Mallari. She’s my fiancée. The one I was looking for.” Lloyd said.

“How did that happen?” Benina asked.

“The rumor came out after I proposed to her. It was a false rumor that affected the both of us. I was about
to tell everyone about our relationship and marriage but because of the rumor I wasn't able to do it. My
career started going down. Everything became a mess. Raine, being selfless person that she is went to
London to help me and also to study. A few months passed and my career went back to normal. I got so
busy that I no longer have time for her. I was so busy and made my career my priority that I didn’t go to her
graduation. That day was the day you met her. She saved you and got amnesia. I think you know more
about what happened after that than me.”

Then there was silence. Suddenly the doctor went out.

“She’s stable now. Just let her rest. You can go to her later.”
                             ____________________________________________

Have you ever had a dream that seemed so real, when you woke up you didn’t know what to believe?

I thought everything was a dream. The rumor, the fight, the accident, the amnesia, Chrome, everything; I
thought it was all a dream. But no, it is reality. It wasn’t a dream. It wasn’t something that I would forget 90%
of it when I wake up. I would still remember it and even face it. The lost time had already changed a lot of
things. And when I wake up, I may remember everything but the problems are just starting.
                             ____________________________________________

“Belle..” I heard Lloyd said as I open my eyes.

“Étoile.” I answered.

“Good thing you are now awake. You got all of us worried. I’m happy your memory is back.”

I looked at Chrome behind Benina. His eyes, it’s weird but it looks happy yet sad.

“Chrome..” I said.


                                                                                                  75
Chrome suddenly goes out of the room and Benina follows him.
                          ____________________________________________

“Chrome..” Benina said to Chrome as she followed him outside.

“I convinced myself this would never happen. I even wished that this day never comes. But I wished for the
impossible.” Chrome said.

“Chrome, don’t say that. Stay. She needs you too.”

“Sorry. I need to go.”

Does She Feel the Same?
CHAPTER 27

“She can go home tomorrow morning.” the doctor said.

“Thank you.” said Lloyd.

The doctor then leaves.

“Are you feeling okay already Raine?”

“Yeah. I'm feeling better actually.”
                             ____________________________________________

“Careful.” Lloyd said as he helps me go down his car and in to our house.

I don’t know why but I suddenly miss Chrome, his house, my apartment, the life in London, everything. I
should be happy right? My memory is back. I’m back where I truly belong.

“I can go down on my own Lloyd. Thank you.” I told Lloyd.
                          ____________________________________________

“Do you want me to cook for you?” Lloyd asked me.

“No thanks. I’ll just sleep. I’m not feeling very well.” I answered.

                             ____________________________________________

I was sleeping when I felt Lloyd get in the bed and hugged me from behind.


                                                                                              76
“Lloyd..” I said.

“Don’t move.” Lloyd said.

So I didn’t.

“I missed you.”

“I missed you too.”

“I want this to be forever. I can’t afford to lose you again. After the drama that I am working on, I will
already leave show business. I want us to be married right away. We’ll go to a different country and start a
family there.”

“You’ll leave your career for me? I thought you loved your career more.”

“That was before I lost you. Things are now different.”
                            ____________________________________________

“What are you planning to do?” Benina asked Chrome.

“Nothing.” Chrome answered.

“You’ll just go back to London without talking to her or even visiting her?”

“What do you want me to do? She’s fine now. She’s with her fiancé already, the right person to be by her
side.”

“I thought you love her? Those months of pursuing her were nothing to you?”

Chrome wasn’t able to answer.

“If you love her, fight for her or at least tell her what’s in your heart right now. You know where to find
her.”

Better off Alone
CHAPTER 28

I woke up quite late and then saw a big box beside the bed. As I opened the box, I saw this beautiful dress.

I was holding the dress when a note suddenly falls.

                                                      Belle,


                                                                                                 77
                             Sorry I need to go because of the shooting for the drama.

                                       Don’t worry I already cooked for you.

                   Later we’ll be going to a party. Wear this dress. I’ll be picking you up at 7.

                                                 Étoile.
                              ____________________________________________

As I was getting ready for the party Lloyd was talking about when I heard the door bell ringing.

“Theia..”

I opened the door it was Chrome standing in front of our house.

“Is it a bad time?” Chrome asked.

I looked at the time, quarter to 7.

“It’s okay. Come in. I was just getting ready for a party. Do you want juice or coffee?”

“No thanks.”

“Wait here. I’ll just fix some things. I’ll be right back. Sit down, feel at home.”
                              ____________________________________________

“Should I call you Theia or Raine now?” Chrome asked.

“You can still call me Theia.” I answered.

“Theia..”

“What is it?”

“Do you still love Lloyd?”

“I don’t know. I know I should because it’s that way it is before I the accident.”

“Do you love me?”

“Chrome. Ugh. I don’t know what to feel anymore.”

                                                                                                    78
Chrome suddenly hugs me from behind.

“I’m leaving tomorrow. Come with me back to London.”

“You know I can’t leave Lloyd. I’m confused about everything but I still don’t want to leave him.”

Then suddenly Lloyd opens the door. Chrome immediately steps back and breaks the hug.

“Chrome, what are you doing here?” Lloyd asked.

“I’m just saying goodbye to Theia. I’m leaving tomorrow at around 2 pm.”

“Oh. Have a safe trip.” Lloyd said.

Chrome left.

“Let’s go.” Lloyd said.
                             ____________________________________________

We arrived in a hotel. The party was actually a ball for celebrities organized by this network. Come to think of
it this is the first party we went to that we are together. Most of the time I just go alone or I’m just at home.

“Smile!” the photographers said while we are walking the red carpet.

We stopped to be interviewed for a while.

“Who’s this lovely lady?” the reporter asked.

“She’s my fiancée. She’s the one I lost and now, I’m glad I found finally.” Lloyd answered.

“I’m so happy for you. You too really look great. You should’ve introduced her earlier.”
                            ____________________________________________

“Let’s dance.” Lloyd said.

“Mamaya na lang.” I answered.

“Are you okay Raine? Ever since we got back from the hospital I feel that you are sad and as if something is
bothering you.”


                                                                                                  79
“I’m okay Lloyd. I’m just thinking about some things.”
                             ____________________________________________

“I think it’s time for us to go home.” I told Lloyd.

“Wait here. I’ll just get the car.” Lloyd said.

After a few minutes, Lloyd’s car arrives and I get in.

“Étoile..” I said.

“Yes Belle?” he answered.

“I think things are going way to fast. I know we’ve been together for a while already but after my memory
came back I just felt everything is happening real fast.”

“What do you mean?”

“I think we should go our separate ways, just for a while. I need to sort things out about myself. It is as if no
longer know my self. I just don’t know what to feel anymore. I don’t want to say this but it also made me
doubt how I really feel about you.”

Lloyd wasn’t able to answer.

“I don’t want to take something you love from you. I can’t allow you to leave your career for me. I know
before I made you choose between me and your career but I know now I was not in the right place to do
that and I was wrong. I just got carried away by my anger.”

Lloyd still didn't answer.

“Lloyd, please say something.”

Beauty in Walking Away
CHAPTER 29

“What do you want me to say Raine? The 7 years we’ve been together is just nothing? You just want to
throw it away like a dirty diaper?” Lloyd stopped the car as we arrived in front of our house.

“Lloyd, it is not like that.”

“Then what do you want me to say?”

“Lloyd..”

Lloyd took a deep breath and said..



                                                                                                 80
“I love you Raine and you know that very much. I don’t want to be away from you. But, if you want us to go
our separate ways for a while, then so be it.”
                           ____________________________________________

The next day I left the house and stayed in a hotel for a while. After what happened last night, Lloyd left and
hasn’t come back since then. I’m worried about Lloyd but I’m just confused how things are turning out. And
now, I’m looking at clock of my hotel room. 1:00 pm. One hour until Chrome leaves.

“Raine, just go! Come with him to London.” a voice is my head is saying.
                           ____________________________________________

“Chrome! Chrome!” I found myself looking for Chrome in a vast airport.

I looked everywhere. I got tired so I went to the coffee shop to get an iced coffee.

“Looking for me?”

I heard someone behind me said.

“Chrome!” I stood up and hugged him.
                           ____________________________________________

“Where are your things? You are not coming with me?” Chrome asked me.

I nodded.

“I just wanted to talk to you before you go.” I said.

“We are talking aren’t we?”

I took a sip from my iced coffee as he did too with his latte.

“I really want to talk to you after I got out of the hospital but I can’t contact you. And last night seemed like
it was a wrong timing. Lloyd and I, we decided to go our separate ways for awhile. It is just that now a days I
don’t know what to feel anymore, what to think. I’m really confused about my feelings for you and Lloyd.
That’s why I hope you understand I can’t go with you and leave everything here. Do you believe in destiny
or fate Chrome?”

“No. I don’t.”

“Well, I do. And I know if we are destined to be together. We will meet again. And if I and Lloyd are
destined to be together, I know you’ll find someone who deserves you better.”

I stood up and hugged Chrome again.

“See again Chrome.”

“See you again Theia.”
                                                                                                  81
Once in a Dream
CHAPTER 30

“Hello, Annabelle Caminos of Celebrity Parazzi.”

“I’ve got news about Lloyd Flores that you would really like.”

“Who’s is this?”

“Does it matter? I said I got news about Lloyd Flores for you. Do you want it or not?”

“Yes. I do. Go ahead.”

“The story is this. In real life, Lloyd was secretly dating Deanna for about 2 years but Deanna broke up with
him because he was caught having a relationship with this certain girl. So the Lloyd we have knew and love
is a cheater and a liar. You don’t believe me? I’ll send you the pictures.”

Annabelle looks at the pictures after it was sent to her.

“This is Lloyd? It doesn’t even look like him. It is too dark.”

“What are you talking about?”

“You are wasting my time. Don’t ever call me again.”
                           ____________________________________________

I had weirdest dream. I dreamt that there’s this rumor that affected my relationship with Lloyd and forced me
to go to London. Then I had amnesia and met this guy. A lot happened. It was so confusing.

I woke up and went to dining area to get something to eat when I was opening the refrigerator I saw there
was a note.

Open the television at about 8 am.

                             ____________________________________________

“Lloyd, you said you have something important to tell us. What is it?” the reporter asked Lloyd.

“Uhm. First of all, I would like to thank everyone for supporting me. I really grateful to each and one of you
but I’m afraid this movie would be my last one.” Lloyd said.

Everyone looked shocked.

“I’m leaving show business. I think it’s time for me to make my own family. I’m actually marrying the love of
my life. Her name is Raine and we’ve been together for about 7 years even before I became a star. She’s
been with me through thick and thin and I love her because that. And I just hope you understand my
decision. Thank you very much again.”

                                                                                               82
Tears started falling down my eyes. I know his career is very important to him but I didn’t expect for him to do
this for me.
                            ____________________________________________

“Raine, your work is done here. Go to the location for the Farm photoshoot. It’s a big shoot. The model is
Benina Valdez and Chrome Lewis is the photographer. I want you to help there. Okay?” Ms. Lalaine told me.

“Benina Valdez and Chrome Lewis, London's fashion power couple.” I answered.

“Yeah them.”

“Yes Ma'am, I'll go there immediately.”

I got my things and went to the location.
                             ____________________________________________

“Is the model and the photographer there?” I asked a staff.

“Yes. They’re over there talking.” the staff answered.

“Thanks.” I answered.

I approached them.

“Benina Valdez and Chrome Lewis, I’m Raine. I’m the executive assistant of Ms. Lalaine. I'm just here to
monitor the shoot. ” I said as I extended my arm.

“Oh. Lalaine. Nice to meet you.” Chrome said.

“Wait you look familiar. Have we met?” Benina told me.

“No but it is as if I feel I know the two of you very well.” I said.
                                ____________________________________________

I arrived later that evening with the lights of the house all turned off.

“Lloyd?” I called.

“Wait!” he answered.

He then opens the door and suddenly the whole house is lit by electric lights. It is as if there are stars inside
the house.

“You liked it?” Lloyd asked.

“I love it.”

                                                                                                    83
“I’m so happy you did.”

I immediately hugged him.

“Thank you. Thank you very much for everything. I just hope you don’t regret leaving your career for me.”

“Don’t worry. I will never do that.”

“I love you forever and ever and ever..” I told Lloyd.

“And ever and ever and ever” he continued.




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