Winning The Magnate's Heart (#LTNI Book 2)

#WTMH Roll 3: The Royal Puppet

In a gasp of a breath, Marga turns around hearing a very familiar surname.

Miller.

Agad niyang hinanap sa mata ang tinukoy nitong ---

Nagtama ang mata nila ng isang pamilyar na babae.

...

Natigilan si Sofia Ximena (Santi's adopted sister) matapos pumasok sa restaurant at nanlaki ang mata nang makilala siya. "I-Isla?"

Looking up to the female Miller, Marga tried to conceal the disappointment she feels. "S-Sofia?"

Ngumiti ang babae. "Ouch... what kind of look is that?"

"I-I'm sorry..." Agad niyang paumanhin.

Nagtaka ang may-edad na businessman sa pangalang tinawag ni Sofia sa prinsesa. "Who's Isla?"

Mabilis na sumalo si Nelson. "A-Ah, i-it's just a mistake. Let's get back to the p-proposal, shall we?" Tingin nito kay Sofia at kay Marga pagkatapos ay binalingan ang negosyante para bigyan ng oras ang dalawa para mag-usap.

Tumango si Margaret at tumayo para harapin ang babae. "Hi, Sofie."

The exotic beauty smiles warmly. "Isla --- Sorry, Margaret..." She opens her arms and hugs the princess. "I miss you!" Pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin. "You look so gorgeous, dear! Look at you!" Sofia excitedly giggles as she touches her soft red-hair. "Wow... I didn't recognize you for a minute there! Kamusta?"

Di magawang ngumiti ni Marga at mahigpit lang na nakahawak sa kamay ni Sofia. "O-Okay naman ako... Ikaw? A-Anong ginagawa mo rito sa Scotland?" The last time she saw her was on Caribbean and she knew Sofia is running the winery business of the Millers in Spain. Sofie is still gorgeous as ever – sun-kissed skin with her straight, black hair swaying on every move. She clears her throat and tries to make her voice lively. "A-Ang saya ko na nakita kita uli!" Marga smiles widely.

"Oh," Kikay na ngiti ni Sofia. "I'm here for business. Kaibigan ko kasi ang may-ari ng restaurant na'to. She wanted to look at our wine collection since she wanted us to supply the wines for this resto." Lumingon ito sa paligid para hanapin ang kaibigan. "There she is!" Masayang kaway nito sa kaibigan na nasa likod ng counter. "I'll say 'hi' to her muna ha --- "

Out of nowhere, Marga felt scared. Agad niyang inabot ang kamay ni Sofia. "S-Sofie." As if Sofia's a new breath of fresh air from her routinely, dull and strict life, para bang ramdam niyang ito nalang ang tanging kumukonektado sa kaniya sa dati niyang buhay.

Sophia looks down on their hands then to the trembling princess. "H-Hey, Margaret... calm down." Dinama nito ang pisngi ni Marga.

Trying not to show the evident sadness on her face, Margaret looks down and bites her lower lip to hide her emotion from other people.

"Look at me."

Dahan-dahang tumingala si Marga.

Nahabag si Sofia sa nakikitang mga luha sa gilid ng mga mata ng prinsesa. She sighs. "Let's talk after this, okay?" Tumingin ito sa dalawang lalakeng nag-uusap sa mesa sa likod ni Marga at binalik ang tingin dito. "Alone."

Mabilis na tumango si Marga.

Hinawakan ni Sofia ang kamay nito. "Tell me everything." She then pinches her cheek then approaches her friend behind the counter.

Dinama naman ni Margaret ang kanina pa niyang tumtambol na dibdib. She closes her eyes. 'Enough, Marga... Stop delusioning yourself. There's no way you'll ever meet him again. Especially now that circumstances are different...' She looks passed the window and into the blue sky outside. 'Stop. You're just not letting yourself heal.'

"Princess Margaret?" Tawag sa kaniya ni Mr. Morrison.

Huminga siya nang malalim at nilingon ang businessman. A smile already on her face. "Yes, Mr. Morrison?" Umupo siya.

Nilingon ni Nelson ang mga namumutlang kamay ng prinsesa. Pagkatapos ay sa magandang babae na nakaupo sa harap ng counter na panaka-nakang tinatapunan sila ng tingin. 'She's a Miller.'

.

.

Matapos ang meeting at nang umalis na ang negosyante'y hinarap ni Nelson si Marga. "Princess... please. We'll get in trouble if the Queen heard --- "

"Nelson." Hawak ni Marga sa kamay ng katiwala. "Please." Sumamo nito. "Sofia and I will just talk."

Nelson sighs. Kung siya ang tatanungin, walang malisya naman sa kaniya kung makikipag-usap ito sa isang kaibigan. This is what Margaret needs the most right now. Isa pa, hindi niya ipagkakait na tumawa at maging masaya ito sa ikling panahon man lang. But if they're talking about a Miller...

Tiningnan ni Nelson ang babae na naghihintay sa prinsesa sa may bulwagan ng resto.

Everything will matter.

Pinisil ni Marga ang kamay niya. "Nelson... please??"

Mabigat sa dibdib ni Nelson ang narinig na kalungkutan sa likod ng boses nito. Like Marga will kneel and kiss his feet anytime just to have a moment with that woman. "Princess..." Hawak niya sa kamay nito. "Go." For a kind-hearted princess like her, she deserves more than pleading to a lowly-servant like him.

At ganoon nalang katamis ang ngiti na sumilay sa mukha ni Marga. "Oh, Nelson. Thank you. Thank you."

Tumango ang matanda. "Don't be too long. Tell her to follow our car. We'll find a place more private than this." Lumingon siya sa paligid. May tiwala naman siyang walang pinasusunod ang reyna sa kanila. Pero di nila alam kung may mga matang mapagmasid na pwedeng magsumbong sa reyna. People here in Scotland are also aware about the Scotts and Millers' family rift.

Nelson chose a place far from the city. They pulled over on a far village with nothing but a friendly neighborhood, endless rolls of green fields and some cattle, sheep, cows, horses and goats herding on the grasses.

Nakatayo si Nelson at ang isang bodyguard na kasama sa gilid ng sasakyan nila. Sa may di-kalayuan nama'y nakatayo rin ang driver at bodyguard ni Sofia Ximena Navarro-Miller.

.

.

With the wind softly blowing their hair, they walked slowly on the grasslands towards a nearby lake. Unang nagsalita si Marga. "I heard Avery gave birth to twins."

Agad sumilay ang ngiti sa labi ni Sophia nang maalala ang cute na mga pamagkin. "Yes. Althea Suzette and Sebastian Jacob. You just don't know how hard I prayed when I heard that Avery's pregnancy was too risky. You know, her obesity and heart condition history."

[A/N: To those who didn't watch #10RTLW, maselan po ang pagbubuntis ni Avery roon. No spoilers please.]

"Oo nga 'eh." She smiles. "Glad it pulled through."

"And I now, I do believe in miracles."

They both stopped and faced the calm water of the freshwater lake.

Margaret nods. "God won't abandon them. I mean, Avery is a great woman. Sabi siguro ng Diyos, masyado pang maaga para mabawasan ang mga mababait na tao sa mundo. Also, it would definitely shatter Isaac if that happened. They've been through a lot..." Her voice trails off as she looks down. "They both deserve a happy ending."

"All of us do."

Nilingon niya ang katabi at malungkot. "I wish." She clears her throat. "So, kamusta si Santino? Fuckboy pa rin ba?"

Tumawa si Sofia sa tinuran ni Marga. "HAHAHAHA! You won't believe it, Santi's my secretary."

Nanlaki ang mata niya. "Secretary?? As in..."

She nods. "Yeah. The person who keeps tabs on all my schedules, remind me of my appointments and... make me coffee whenever I want to." Sabay kindat.

Napatawa na rin ang prinsesa. "Di talaga ako makapaniwala! I mean... we're talking about Santino Uji here!"

"Kaya nga." Nameywang si Sophia at parang proud na proud sa ginawa nito sa 'kapatid'. "Ewan ko kung anong masamang hangin ang pumasok sa utak nun at biglang ipinahayag na gusto niyang maging parte sa wineria. I mean, he has the right to since he's the legitimate Miller but... hello... Santi? Managing the century old business of their family? Who did nothing but smash heads and collect wounds and scars all over his body.."

"Grabe ka naman. Bigyan mo ng pagkakataon yung tao."

"That's what I'm doing! Duh!" Tusong ngiti ni Sofia. "He can't just... 'Oh, Sofia, umalis ka na sa position mong Operations Manager ng La Wineria de Miller kasi ako ang totoong anak.' It doesn't work that way. He needs to learn the rope. How? Start from scratch. He needs to learn from the..." She pats her chest. "..the best. Me."

"HAHAHAHAHA!!" For a long time, Marga laughs authentically with no remorse that someone could hear her pig-like laugh. "Gusto ko ginawa mo."

"Dapat lang. He needs to observe first how things are done in the winery – how to tell the age of the wine by smelling or how to know when the grapes are ripe enough to sow."

"Kasama mo siya ngayon?"

Umiling ito. "Nope. He's at our winery in Denmark. Siya ang humalili sa akin sa Wine Convention rin. So far," Sofia checks her phone. "No emergency calls from him. Therefore, he's doing good."

Marga scoffs. "Ha! Sofia, baka nakakalimutan mong isa siyang Miller."

Sofia rolls her eyes upward. "Ay tama... Millers and their unreachable pride."

Her eyes are smiling as she nods. "Yes. If may problema roon, iisipin nun na kaya niya yun at di niya kailangan tulong mo."

The dazzling Morena beauty smiled in return. "Tumpak! Sila lahat ano?"

Tumango siya. "Oo... In fact, ganiyan rin si Isai --- " She immediately bits her lower lip to stop herself from naming him.

Nahalata iyon ni Sofia. "Margaret, about Isaiah ---"

"Si Dylan?" Pag-iiba niya agad sa paksa. "Kamusta? T-Takot pa rin sa babae?"

Napabuntong-hinga nalang ito at tumango. "Yeah. But, I think Noah recommended him to psychiatrist to address his fear. As a prince, he needs to fix it. Nakow, kung nagkataon... ubos ang Arabong lahi nila kung di siya magkakaanak man lang."

Napatawa uli si Marga. "Oo nga. Imagine-in mo kung magsisiping na sila. Hahawak pa lang si Dylan sa damit ng babae pero..."

Sabay silang humagikhik at nagsalita. "Bubuglata na sa sahig!!!" At nag-hi-five pa.

.

.

Nelson, observing the two noisy women on the lakeshore, can't help but smile. He made the right decision for letting the princess talk to her. He never heard her laugh that loud and un-feminine. It doesn't feel wrong to him. It more feels like, alive and... human.

.

.

"Si Claudia?" Pangungumusta niya sa una niya naging kaibigan na babae sa mga Miller.

"Her hands are full with her three year old, very bibo son, Maximus." Kinuha ni Sofia ang phone at pinakita ang litrato ng singkit na singkit na anak ni Clau na madungis sa kinaing chocolates. "Cute di'ba! Last Christmas, he always bothers Clau to call me. As her ninang raw, dapat daw araw-araw may natatanggap siyang chocolates. Kita mo gaano ka-bilis na mag-isip."

"Dapat lang naman." She laughs.

"Oh, I'd love to spoil my future nephews and nieces with whatever they like. Bahala na kung pagagalitan na ako ng mga magulang nila. Minsan lang tayo magiging bata kaya lubus-lubusin na natin." She swipes her gallery and shows pictures of Avery and Isaac's twins. "Look 'oh... Ganda ng genes kasi ng dalawang iyon! Pag ang mga ito lumaki, ewan ko kung di ba mabaliw ang mga binata't dalaga sa kanila. Heto pa..."

Margaret looks at Sofia as she proudly shows her pictures of the new generations of Miller. Her face gleams with happiness.

Matipid siyang ngumiti.

She concluded everything's okay between them given that the new additions to their ever-growing family serves as the glue on once broken trust they had with one another because of what happened two years ago.

Nais niya'y sana ay naghilom na ang mga sugat noon.

"Si Doc. Dimples, kamusta?"

Sophia stops then looks at her.

Napakurap siya. "Hmm?" 'May dumi ba sa mukha ko?'

"Siya... di mo ba siya kakamustahin, Marga?"

And she's not that slow to understand who Sofia's talking about. Nag-iwas ito ng tingin. "I-I'd rather not ask." 'Because if I'll ask... I'll keep asking for more.'

"Tell me..." Panimula ni Sofia sa seryosong tono. "How's life being a princess, Marga?"

Looking down on their feet buried on the soft bed of grass, Marga shows a soft smile. "Okay naman --- "

"Drop the act. You don't look like what you're saying." Sofia crosses her arms infront of her chest. A stance that means she won't back down unless Margaret is being true to her. "Kanina pa kita nahahalata. Ayaw mong pag-usapan natin ang buhay mo."

Tears start to sting her eyes. 'Don't cry. Please don't cry, Marga.' Sa posisyon kasi nila'y kitang-kita sila ni Nelson at pag nakahalata itong umiiyak siya' agad siya nitong kukunin at aalis sila sa lugar ora mismo. She needs more time with Sofia – she needs to lift some burdens she's been carrying around for the past two years. 'Don't cry.'

"Margaret."

Tiningala niya ito.

"Kung okay lang lahat sa'yo... Di ka manginginig kanina nung pinigilan mo akong lumapit sa kaibigan ko. There's something wrong."

"But Sofia --- "

"Let me be frank. We're here because you wanted someone to talked to without filtering details. You plead to have more time with me. Now, kung di ka man lang magsasalita, iiwan kita rito."

She sighs and faces her. "I wish it was that easy."

"Tayo lang ang andito, Margaret." She touches her cheeks. "Whatever you say here, stays here."

"C-Can I be honest w-with y-you?"

Sofie nods. "Always."

Nag-iwas ito ng tingin at tumingin sa mapayapang lawa. "I feel I'm trapped." Tears roll on her reddening cheeks. "I-I feel like I'm drowned in a water, gasping for air... f-for life." She looks at Sofia. "I know I can do something. But I j-just can't."

She remembers her dream last night.

> "You just gave up the chance to have a choice, Isla."

"I-I know I can run away from this. I... I know I can free myself f-from this." She trembles and tries not to let Nelson see her face. "B-But why c-can't I?" She breathes in every time she talks like every word are so hard to pronounce.

Nahabag si Sofia. She's not scared. She's... just sad. Niyuko niya ang mga kamay ni Margaret – namumutla na ito sa higpit nitong pagkakuyom. Margaret's quiet and silent aura is a sure sign that things are not doing well on her new life. Gone was the woman she knew as Isla who can curse as loud as a lion and doesn't give a care whatever people perceive on her as long as she can make everyone around her happy and safe.

Now, all Sofia can see... is a puppet with strings. Strings that commands and restricts her every move – scripted and monitored.

Being said, the life on the palace as a princess is hard.

Di nga naman maitatago na talagang gumanda pa ito lalo. Her skin, from their brief physical contact earlier, is soft and smooth. Her red-hair is definitely on its brightest flaming color. Idagdag mo pa ang pambabaeng suot at galaw nito. A headturner. A photogenic, pretty princess.

But are all those what Marga wants?

No.

"Hey..." Dama niya sa braso nito.

Humihikbi itong tumingin sa kaniya.

Nalungkot pa lalo si Sofia. She can't think of the right things to say to her. She can't say: 'Okay lang 'yan.' since things will get worse from here knowing how Marga's starting to panic. She can't say: 'Calm down.' because no one can stay calm down on situations where your happiness and freedom are being compromised.

She just pulls the crying princess and embraces her tight. "Oh, M-Marga.." Bumiyak na rin ang boses niya. "I-I'm sorry... I-I don't know..." At napaiyak na rin siya sa naramdamang sakit sa boses at bawat hikbi nito. "..I don't k-know what to say."

The princess clings to her, pouring her heart and soul's misery.

.

.

After her breakdown, Sofia tried to cheer Margaret by showing her videos of the newly born twins and Maximus naughty antics. Masaya siyang napatawa naman niya ito. The princess even asked a picture of Sebastian Jacob's famous 'Do-I-Look-Like-I-Care' photo taken accidentally by Avery.

Tuwang-tuwa ang prinsesa kasi sa batang edad ni Basti'y halatang masungit na ito tulad ng ama. She also loves looking at the boy's sharp blue eyes. It reminds me of him.

"Kasing gwapo rin kaya ni Basti maging anak ko 'no?"

Napalingon si Marga sa katabi niya. Noo'y nakaupo na sila sa damuhan kaharap ang lawa. Napatawa siya. "Oo kaya."

"I mean, gusto ko ng magka-baby." Sofie pouts. "Yan nalang siguro kulang sa buhay ko."

"Tangi." Ngiti niya. "Paano ka gagawa ng baby kung wala kang asawa? Humanap ka muna ng jowa."

Umingos nito. "Hmp. I'm too busy with work to find time to look for Mr. Right."

"Anong time?" Tusong siniko niya ito. "Baka nasa tabi-tabi mo lang."

"Anong tabi-tabi?"

Marga naughtily moves her eyebrows up and down. "Hmmm... Alam kong kilala mo sino tinutukoy ko."

Agad namula si Sofia. "Oh gross! Stop it, Marga!" Inis na palo nito sa braso niya.

"Aray! Bakit?" Panunukso pa niya. "Sino ba iniisip mo?!"

"Kung di ka lang prinsesa... kanina pa kita nilublob sa tubig!" Para na itong kamatis sa pula.

"I am Princess, and you just slapped a Princess' arm!" Kunwaring na-offend si Marga. "You should be in jail!"

"Kainis ka!"

"Ano bang sinabi ko? Wala akong binanggit na pangalan!" Tawang-tawa niya sa reaksiyon nito. "Di ko sinabing si Santino... pero parang ganun na nga ---"

"MARGARET VICTORIA CAROLINA!!!"

"WHAT IS IT, SOFIA XIMENA!!" Bumuluhaw nalang siya ng tawa nang humablot ng mga d**o si Sofia at tinapon sa direksyon niya. "Ano ba! Hoooy! Sofia ---"

"Ehem."

Sabay silang napalingin sa likod. Nakatayo na pala roon si Nelson.

"Y-Yes, Nelson?" Agad tumayo si Marga at pinagpag ang palda.

Tumayo na rin si Sofia at tahimik na pinuna kung paano mabilis mag-iba ng presinsiya ni Margaret. From Isla to Marga in a snap.

"The nurse called." Imporma ng matandang katiwala.

"W-Why? Is it about grandma?" Nag-aalalang tanong ng prinsesa.

Naibahagi rin ni Marga sa kaniya kanina na kaya ito ang humarap sa negosyante kanina kasi may sakit ang reyna. In-obserbahan niya nang maigi ang kaibigan. She thinks she knew why Marga can't leave the palace even though she has the capability to.

Despite her grandma's strict upbringing on her, Sofia can see real concern and love on Margaret's face and actions. Mahal nito ang abuela at ayaw nitong may mangyaring masama rito. She took another burden on her shoulder just to ensure her grandma's in good health.

Sofia's sighs.

When will someone realize that Margaret's deserve to be loved as well – to be cared and concerned to.

Margaret needs saving.

"Sofia."

Naputol ang pagmuni-muni niya nang humarap ito sa kaniya. "Y-Yes?'"

"I should get going." Ngiting paumanhin nito.

"S-Sure, sure." Yumakap siya sa prinsesa. "Masaya ako't nagkausap uli tayo, Marga."

"Ako rin. Ummm.." Yumuko si Margaret na parang may gusto 'tong idugtong.

She holds her hand and gives a reassuring smile. "I know. I'll keep in touch with you. Give me your phone, I'll type-in my number."

Nilingon ni Margaret si Nelson.

Tumango naman ang katiwala.

Masayang dinukot ni Marga ang phone sa purse na dala at binigay sa kaibigan. "Wish we had more time."

After punching in her number, Sofie returns the gadget to her. "We'll have more. Call me."

Ngumiti si Margaret at yumakap uli sa babae. "Thank you, Sofia. Send my love to all."

"I will." Sofia pats her back.

While on their way to the palace, sitting on the backseat, Marga clears her throat. "Ehemm.."

Nelson turns to her from sitting beside the driver. "Something wrong, Princess?"

"C-Can we keep t-that meeting a secret from the Queen, Lord Brock?"

Agad nakuha ni Nelson ang gusto nitong iparating. He knew she's not talking about the meeting with Mr. Morisson but her meeting with a Miller. He looks at the driver whose face is blank from driving safely on the winding road. Nilingon uli niya ang prinsesa at tumango. "I will."

Matamis na ngumiti ito. "Thank you."

"But please promise me..." Sa seryosong tonong saad niya. "Don't have secret meetings with a Miller without telling me."

Tumango ito.

"Bec. if that happens, I can't cover up for you. I pledged my loyalty to the Queen and to the crown. This will be considered treason since the Queen strictly prohibited us from having any contact with them." [A/N: Treason - the crime of betraying one's country, the action of betraying someone or something.]

Malapad itong ngumiti at tinaas ang isang kamay na parang bang nanunumpa. "I promise!"

Napangiti na rin si Nelson. Look what a short meeting with a friend can do to a lonely princess.

.

.

Pagkadating nila sa mansiyon ay agad silang sinalubong ni Ussie. "Princess, Lord Brock." Yukod nito bilang paggalang. "The Queen is already awake. She expects your presence in her chambers."

At sabay nilang tinahak ni Nelson ang hagdan papunta sa malaking kwarto ng reyna. "Nelson, is there any possibility that grandma will know about ---"

"Act normal, Princess. Your secret is safe with me." They stopped infront of the two-leaf door intricated with gold designs of vines and leaves. He knocked twice. "Your Majesty, I am announcing my presence, Lord Nelson Brock and this of Princess Margaret Victoria Carolina!"

"Come in." The Queen responded from the inside.

Tinulak ni Nelson ang pintuan pabukas. Unang pumasok ang prinsesa at bumungad sa kanila ang reyna na nasa kama pa rin pero nagbabasa na ng makapal na libro. "G-Grandma." Lapit ni Marga rito. "You should be resting."

Winasiwas ni Mary ang kamay at hinubad ang eyeglass na suot. "I can't just lay here and let things unfold on their own."

Nakatayo lang si Marga tabi ng kama nito at tinunghay kung paano minasahe ng abuela ang ilong nito sa pagitan ng mga mata.

Lumapit naman si Nelson. "Your Majesty, I would like to report that the meeting with Mr. Morisson of Luxembor Water Works went well. In fact, Princess Marga here closes the deal flawlessly."

Ngumiti si Margaret at hinintay ang reaksiyon ng reyna.

"She did laid your proposal as--- "

"Good." Putol lang ni Queen Mary at sinuot uli ang eyeglasses nito. "Nelson, I need the draft on the Kensington Accords." Niyuko nito ang libro na nasa kandungan nito.

Mabilis na nawala ang ngiti sa mga labi ni Marga.

"Uhhh..." Pinaglilipat ni Nelson ang tingin sa dalawang babae. "Ummm..."

Queen Mary raises her eyes on the man. "Nelson, the drafts?"

"Y-Yes, M-My Queen." Nagdadalawang-isip na tumango si Nelson.

Mary turns to Margaret. "What are you waiting? Go get change. Our Governess will conduct a test on your ballet skills. You kept on failing it."

Kinagat ni Marga ang ibabang labi at marahan tumango. "Y-Yes, M-My Queen." Kahit masakit ang loob ay tumango siya, tumalikod at lumabas sa kwarto.

Sinundan ni Nelson ang nakatalikod na pigura ng prinsesa. "E-Excuse my audacity, My Queen. Aren't you a bit too cold towards the princess?"

Di tuminag ang reyna.

"It's her first closed legal deal since she became a princess and that's a great milestone --- "

"Kaya nga, Nelson." Sinara ni Mary ang libro at tiningala ang katiwala. "It's her first closed deal and it won't be her last. Dapat lang na ma-close niya iyon. As the future Queen of two countries, she is expected to excel. Bakit? Kada achievements ba niya dapat kong i-acknowledge? Hindi sa lahat ng oras may magpapasalamat sa ginawa niya. Iba'y minamasama pa ang pagtulong niya. If she can't handle the pressure I gave her, what more the pressure from her own people?"

"But Queen --- "

"She needs to toughen up, Nelson. I may not be by her side when the time comes that she'll ascend the throne. Don't treat her as a baby."

"A little motivation will do --- "

"The drafts of the Accords, please." Binuksan uli ng reyna ang libro at doon na tinuon ang pansin.

Walang magawa si Nelson kundi bumuntong-hinga nalang at lumabas sa kwarto.

After hearing the door close, Mary leans on her bed's headboard.

> "My Queen, aren't you a bit too cold towards the princess?"

'Too cold? I was too accommodating with my daughter back then. I treated Helena like a fragile glass... but look what happened? Bec. of my too much concern, she was not taught the harsh ways reality could give. She thinks that love could solve everything. She thinks the places outside Scotland are paradise. She thinks people will treat her well like I did to her. Pero nasaan siya ngayon? Isang bangkay sa ilalim ng lupa. Habang maaga pa'y ipapamulat ko kay Marga kung gaano ka-sakim ang mundo oras na siya na ang reyna. In that way, she'll make a great, formidable Queen of Scotland and Ireland.'

Naputol ang pagmumuni niya nang may kumatok. "Your Majesty, announcing the presence of Messenger de Revon!"

"Come in." She composes herself.

A maid and a mailman enter her chamber. "Your Highness." Yukod ng dalawa.

Tinanguan niya ito. "What's this all about? Can you just accept the letter for my stead?" Tingin niya sa maid.

Umiling ang maid. "The messenger her told me it's of utmost importance, My Queen. It's a letter from the Kingdom of Italy."

"Italy?" Nilahad ni Mary ang kamay niya sa kartero para ibigay sa kaniya ang sulat na may gold seal ng Italia. For this to be handed personally and with a seal, this must be treated... privately. "You may leave." Utos niya sa dalawa.

Matapos lumabas ang dalawa, binuksan niya ang sulat.

Later that evening, Sofia enjoyed a night, fragrant dip on her rented suite's bathtub. Behind the tub is a glass wall overlooking the Scotland's night-sky. Nakalublob siya sa tubig habang nakapikit at ninanamnam ang amoy ng scented candles sa sinindihan sa may pintuan. The soft music from a stereo on the ceiling's corner made her bathe more relaxing.

With her charcoal, dark hair enclosed on towel on her head, she slowly opens her eyes when her phone vibrates on the marble shelf beside the tub. Umupo siya sa bathtub at inabot niya iyon. Incoming call. Joaquin. 'Hmm? Joaquin?' Pinindot niya ang answer button at dinala iyon sa tainga. "Hello?"

Joaquin: "Hi there."

She snorts. "Ha! At ano naman ang maipaglilingkod ko sa'yo mahal na prinsipe?" She smiles hearing her friend's voice.

Nagkakilala sila ni Joaquin kasi fan na fan ito at ang inang reyna at amang hari nito sa mga wine collections nila. Being the sales manager that time on their first meeting, they immediately clicked due to the prince' quick humor. Their relationship deepens as Joaquin introduces the Miller Winery to his friends on their social circle. As a gratitude, she treated the prince a tour on the Caribbean of which he accepted upon knowing that Dylan, her cousin who is a prince himself too, is also there. From then on, she has a special passport in Italy that gives her a lot of freebies – free hotel accommodation on the most expensive hotel, free service vehicle and passes on the tourist spots.

Joaquin: "I heard you're here in Scotland."

Nangunot ang noo niya. "How'd you know?"

Joaquin: "I called your office. The officer-in-charge informed me your whereabouts when I told her I'm a prince."

"Ohoooy~" Ngisi niya. "Abuse of power ka, 'tol." Then she realizes something. "Wait, you're also here in Scotland?"

Joaquin: "Esattamente." (Italian of 'exactly'.)

"Look at the odds, huh? Where are you checked-in?"

Joaquin: "That's what I wanted to ask you earlier. Have you had your dinner?"

"Nope. I planned to have it after my bath."

Joaquin: "Are you tempting me, Ms. Sofia Ximena?"

She scoffs. "As if you're tempted." Tumayo siya para magbanlaw.

Yes. Their relationship, no matter how much people put colors on it, never reached the level of being romantic. They just enjoyed each other's company and connections, that's all.

Joaquin: "Have dinner with me. My treat. Text me the address and I'll send my driver there."

"Noted, Prince Joaquin." Tawa niya.

Joaquin: "There's something I wanted to talk to you about."

"Oh. Sure?" 'That's new.' "Okay, bye." Patay niya sa linya. "Talk about?" Kibit-balikat nalang niya.

.

.

Wearing a white maxi-dress that shapes her small waist perfectly and shows a generous peek of her cleavage, Sofia ensembles her outfit with bold oval-shaped emerald earrings. She thanks the waiter that guided her on the reserved table situated beside a huge ceiling-to-floor window that overlooks the same night-scene.

Ngumiti ang prinsipe ng makita siya. "Gorgeous as ever." Tumayo ito at humalik sa pisngi niya. He's wearing brown long-sleeve shirt and black trousers.

Umirap siya at nilibot ang paningin sa magarang kainan. "How I wish I was your girlfriend. Para atleast naman kiligin ako sa ginawa mong preparasyon." Umupo siya kaharap ito.

Tumawa ang prinsipe. "Just appreciate my gesture." He opens his table napkin and places it on his lap. "Please, pick your food." Turo nito sa menu.

Kinuha naman iyon ni Sofia at pinasadahan ang mga pagkain na naroroon. "Hmmm... I'll just have sautéed beef with rosemary. Medium-rare." Saad niya sa naghihintay na waiter. After the guy left, another uniformed man poured white wine on their crystal tall glasses. "You do have a knack for white wine, huh?" Sumimsim si Sofia. "Ohhh..." Tiningnan niya ang likido sa baso matapos uminom. "This is... 1995 Charles Heidsieck."

"Good taste-buds." Tango ni Joaquin na uminom rin ng wine.

"So," Panimula niya. "What's this thing you wanted to talk to me about?"

"Let's discuss it when the foods here. How's your visit here? Why are you here in the first place, anyway?"

Sofia clears her throat to omit anything that connects to her meeting with Margaret. "Oh, I had this female friend who loves our vintage wine collection. She wanted us to supply for her restaurant."

"You're going big, huh?"

"Yup." She shrugs and smiles. "This time... without your help."

"Ouch. You, ungrateful woman."

Tumawa si Sofia at uminom uli ng wine. "Know that I'm forever grateful to you, Joaquin. You opened a lot of doors for me."

"And you remained single. I also opened a lot of opportunities for you to end up with any of my bachelor friends who owned restaurants as well."

She rolls her eyes. "No, thanks."

"Don't waste your beauty. If only I can marry you."

Inambanan niya ito ng suntok. "Umayos ka."

It's Joaquin's turn to laugh heartily. "Okay, okay."

"Ikaw ba, anong ginagawa mo rito sa Scotland?"

"The Prime Minister of Canada wanted to meet Queen Mary so I accompanied his visit --- "

"Then the rest are boring stuffs, right?"

The prince dark, deep-set eyes smiles. "Yeah. Boring stuffs."

As they recapped and shared the events on their life, their foods arrived. Nagkakatawanan pa sila sa dilemma ngayon ni Dylan kasi pini-pressure na ito ng lolo nito (mother's side) na magbigay na ng tagapagmana kasi ang tahimik na raw ng palasyo na walang bata.

"Poor Dylan..." Iling ni Joaquin habang sinimulang kainin ang hinandang pagkain. "Being a King is easy as pie for him. Name it, he's good at it... Except..."

"Women." Natatawang hiwa ni Sofia sa steak niya.

CASTLE OF HEJAZ | KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA

"Achooo!" Dylan sneezes and stops reading an old textbook.

Lumingon sa kaniya ang lalakeng katiwala. "Are you okay, Ymir (Prince)?"

He nods and sniffs as he resumes reading the book. 'Is there someone talking about me?'

Sofia is on her fourth slice of meat when Prince Joaquin opens his intent. "Sofie."

"Hmm?" She's munching softly when she raises her eyes on him.

"What do you think will be the most romantic proposal ever?"

Natigilan si Sofia at nilunok ang pagkain. "Proposal? Like asking someone out?"

"No. Marriage." Iling nito.

"I never heard you had a girlfriend." Inom ni Sofia ng wine. "And now you're opening up about marriage."

He shrugs. "Things works different in our... you know."

She nods. "I get it, I get it. Well, for starters, especially for me... I want it to be a surprise of course. Alam mo naman ako, gusto ko ng marangya. I want my boyfriend to drop the question infront of our friends, family..." Napangiti siya na para bang siya ang binigyan ng proposal. "It makes my heart flutter by just imagining it!"

The prince nods. "Women like diamonds? Pearls?"

"Kung ako... mas gusto ko yung antigong singsing na may sentimental value. I bet you have one of those. Rings from your great-great-great grandma being passed down from generation to generations."

"Tama."

"Pwede rin naman bago. Di naman kasi yun magma-matter kasi ma-o-overwhelm ang future bride mo sa saya that time."

He grins as his deep-set eyes go dreamy. "Knowing her, she'll love a ring with personal value on it." He resumes eating. "Can you help me arrange my proposal."

Nanlaki ang mata ni Sofia. "Me?" Her smile widens. "That's a very intimate and personal event, Joaquin. You sure, you'd let me plan it?"

"Of course. Knowing your taste for extravaganza, make it the most beautiful event of the year, Sofia."

"No. Your wedding will be the most beautiful event." Hawak niya sa kamay ng kaibigan. "On this one, let us tone it down. Proposal pa lang kasi ito. Doon ko na todohin sa kasal mo."

"I know I can count on you."

Niyuko uli ni Sofia ang pagkain. "Tell me about this soon-to-be-bride of yours. So that I could assess her attitude and her likes."

"You know her."

Her fingers holding the knife freeze. Agad lumipad ang tingin niya sa kaharap. "What? I know her ---" 'Oh no... no, no, no, no...' Di pa nga nasabi ni Joaquin ang pangalan ay para nang sinuntok ang sikmura niya. 'Please don't tell me it's...'

"It's Margaret." He happily said it.

Sofia's hungry appetite disappeared completely. "M-Marga?"

"Yeah." Nawala ang ngiti nito sa labi. "Why?"

"N-Nothing." Nanginginig na uminom ng wine si Sofia para kalmahin ang sarili. Even the strong taste of the wine tastes... empty on her tongue. "Nothing."

The next morning, Marga walks down the stairs with books on her hands. She'll have Business Marketing quiz today with Governess Amelia. Pagkalapag niya sa paanan ng hagdan ay nakikita niyang inuutusan ni Nelson ang mga nakalinyang mga maids at butler sa may di-kalayuan. 'Hmm? Ano meron?'

"Princess Marga."

Lingon niya kay Jean na naglakad papalpit sa kaniya.

"Governess Amelia is on the study room, waiting for you."

"Okay. Jean, anong meron?" Sabay silang lumingon sa mga maids at butlers na nakikinig sa mga inutos ni Nelson na di nila marinig mula sa kinatatayuan nila.

Jean clears her throat. "Uhhh... the Queen might told Lord Brock an errand?"

"I see..." Before she turns her head, she saw Nelson looks at her with worry on his old eyes. 'Why do I have a bad feeling about this?'

.

.

On the afternoon, to her surprise, her afternoon was cancelled. Instead, two female couturiers arrived to get her body's measurement. [A/N: Couturier - a fashion designer who manufactures and sells clothes that have been tailored to a client's specific requirements and measurements.] She asked them why's there a need to measure her when she still had clothes she didn't yet wear. Sumagot lang ito na utos lang daw ng reyna.

'By the Queen? Will there be a big upcoming event for the Queen to rush a gown for me?'

VISCOUNT ERINBOUGH'S MANSION | SCOTLAND

Walang gana na nagmamando si Sofia sa mga flower supplier's kung saan ilalapag ang mga bulaklak sa malaking bulwagan ng marangyang mansion ng isang viscount. [A/N: Viscount – A nobleman with no royal blood and was given a title by the Queen.] Dahil ang bulwagan na iyo'y kaya mag-cater ng halos dalawang daang bisita, personal na pinili iyon ni Joaquin. Idagdag mo po ang mga nakapalibot na dingding ay gawa sa glass na kitang-kita ang malawak na hardin sa labas na namumutiktik ng mga bulaklak.

She sighs as she leans on a post. "What did I get myself into?" Nilibot niya ang tingin sa paligid. Abala ang mga tao roon sa paghahanda. "Oh God..." Sapo niya sa noo. She's torn between two friends. If she'll back out, she might offend Joaquin. If she'll pursue, she'll betray Margaret. 'Bakit di mo kasi kaagad tinanong kung sino, Sofia! Tingnan mo tuloy!' Pinagalitan niya ang sarili.

Mas lalo siyang nanlumo nang maalala na piniresinta pa niya ang sarili na siyang mag-aasikaso sa kasal nito. 'Sofia...' Ungol niya.

The next two days are busy. The people in the castle are busy.

Nakaupo si Marga sa loob ng study room habang nag-susulat naman sa blackboard si Governess Amelia. Dahil nakatalikod ang matanda'y, dahan-daha siyang tumayo at sumilip sa bintana. Nakita niyang abala ang mga maids at butlers sa pagbubuhat ng mga stacks ng upuan, lamesa, mga tablecloths, mga mamahaling plato at mga baso papunta sa isang container truck na nakapark sa gilid ng palasyo. 'May party nga talaga.' But why is it that nobody told her anything about it? Like the details: where it will be held, who's hosting the party, what's the purpose for the party. Sa tuwing magtatanong siya'y tikom ang bibig ng mga tao sa palasyo.

"Aimer, ce n'est pas se regarder l'un l'autre, c'est regarder ensemble dans la même direction."

Agad napalingon siya sa harap nang marinig ang boses ng matandang guro. "Oh! I-I'm sorry!" Mabilis siyang bumalik sa upuan.

Ngumiti si Governess Amelia. "W-What d-does it m-mean, Princess?" Mabagal at nanginginig na salita ng matanda.

"Huh?" Namumula siya sa hiya na inalala ang sinabi nito kanina. "Aimer, ce n'est pas se regarder l'un l'autre, c'est regarder ensemble dans la même direction." Ulit niya sa French quote.

"B-By Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. A F-French poet."

Tumango siya na parang batang napagalitan. "Yes. I-it means, 'Love does not consist in looking at each other, but rather in, together, looking in the same direction.'" At natigilan siya. Napa-angat ang tingin niya sa matanda.

Nakangiting tumango si Governess Amelia. "I-if both h-hearts yearn fo-for each other and had the s-same objective i-in mind, l-love looks past distance, t-time and mistakes."

'Is she talking about her tragic love life --- '

As if reading her mind, Governess Amelia walks towards her and taps her cheek with her cold, wrinkled hand. "It's for you, P-Princess."

Bago pa bumuka ang bibig niya para tanungin ito kung anong ibig nitong sabihin ay kumatok at pumasok si Ussie sa study room. "Princess, the couturiers are here for the final fit of the gown."

Nakapako pa rin ang tingin niya sa matanda nang tumango. "Y-Yes, Ussie." Tumayo siya at naglakad papunta sa pintuan habang pumasok naman si Ussie para alalayan ang matandang Governess.

Habang naglalakad papunta sa kwarto'y nilingon uli ni Marga si Amelia na uugod-ugod na naglakad habang nakahawak kay Ussie pababa sa hagdan.

> "If both hearts yearn for each other and had the same objective in mind, l-love looks past distance, time and mistakes."

> "It's for you, P-Princess."

Dinama nalang niya ang dumagundong niyang dibdib at pumasok sa kwarto kung saan naghihintay ang mga ­couturiers.

Later that evening of the party, on the wide ballroom of Viscount Erinbough's mansion, Joaquin shakes hand with his relatives, close friends and colleagues from the social circle their family belongs to. "Hey buddy!" Brofist niya sa isang kaibigan.

Yuan, a renowned Chinese race-car driver, jokingly punches his arm. "You're finally settling, huh?"

"Shhh..." Patahimik niya rito. "It's still a surprise. No one knows except some selected people."

"Who's the lucky damsel?" Tanong naman ng kapatid nitong si Jiro na isang race-car driver rin.

"You'll know her soon. Please, don't drool." Natatawang habilin niya sa mga kaibigan.

"Idiot!" Suntok uli ni Yuan.

CASTLE OF HEJAZ | KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA | DYLAN'S ROOM

Taking off his riding uniform wet with sweat from his polo play, Dylan saw a letter on his bed. "Hmm?" Tiningnan niya ang gintong seal ng Italia sa sobre. "From Joaquin?" [A/N: Polo - a game resembling field hockey, played on horseback with a long-handled golf club-like mallet.] Umupo siya sa silya at binuksan iyon. "An invitation of --- " His inside went cold. "Engagement... party of... Prince Joaquin Salvatore and ---" He can't finish reading the name out loud. "Hell."

[A/N: The letter arrived late on his country. Handwritten letters are still practiced on countries with monarchies and let it be personally delivered especially those with private matters inside. E-mails are prone to hack or data breach if ever.]

VISCOUNT ERINBOUGH'S MANSION | SCOTLAND

On an elevated platform facing countless table occupied by guests, a long table for the royals are placed. Nakaupo na roon si Joaquin na nag-aantabay sa mga darating ng importanteng bisita.

The mansion's attendant shouted enough to get the everybody's attention. "I humbly announce, the arrival of King Stefano the V and Queen Greta of Italian Empire!!"

Tumayo lahat at pumalakpak bilang pagsalubong sa mga dugong bughaw. The pair entered the venue in their formal attire. King Stefano wears a black Americana while Queen Greta wears an imperial green dress. They went upstage where their son welcomes them.

"King, Queen." Yuko ni Joaquin bilang pagkilala sa mga magulang.

Queen Greta smiles upon seeing her only son. "My boy." She touches his cheek.

King Stefano proudly nods.

The attendant shouted a second round of introduction. "I humbly announce, the arrival of Queen Mary Alexandrina and Princess Margaret Victoria Carolina of the Kingdom of Scotland and Ireland!!"

Another wave of claps filled the air as Queen Mary, with her green pinstripe suit and a red tiara on her head. Yet what made the guests gasp is when they have a glimpse of the Scottish Princess.

Joaquin smiles with pride.

Princess Marga enters the ballroom with a pale-yellow gown that hugs her upper body and spreads at her lower part. Her red-hair is braided behind her head adorned with little pearls. A necklace of black onyx gem completes her look.

"Wow!", "Is that her?", "So gorgeous!", "Look at her hair... just like the late king.", "Very beautiful!" The murmurs of praises continue until Princess Marga and Queen Mary arrives at the platform. They said their greetings with one another.

Marga smiles at Queen Greta. "Good evening, Queen Greta." She curtsies. [A/N: Curtsy – a woman's or girl's formal greeting made by bending the knees with one foot in front of the other.]

"Margaret!" Masayang yakap sa kaniya ng reyna. "How lovely to see you tonight. So dazzling." She pinches her cheek.

She maintained a smile then looks at Joaquin standing on the other end of the table. She moves her eyes as if asking him: 'what's this all about?'

Instead of answering back, he just winks.

They remained standing as each of the royal heads give their own short welcome message for the guests. Habang isa-isa ang mga ito'y nagsasalita, hindi mapakali si Marga sa mga tingin na nakukuha niya sa mga tao. It feels like she's an animal being put under observation – watching and checking her every move. As if breathing deep is a sin.

Nakatayo lang siya roon na parang estatwa at ngumingiti pag nagbabanggit ang pangalan niya.

Matapos ang mga mensahe'y nagsiupuan na sila. With Marga on the far-left and Joaquin on the far-right, graces for the food has been prayed. And then a lively music played in the background to start the night that will start a series of event in the future.

.

.

Nakatayo sa verandah si Sofia at di makayanan ng kaniyang sikmura na pumasok sa loob. She can't bear to look at the face of the innocent Marga. She sighs as her hair rides the soft, night breeze. Niyakap niya ang sarili na suot ay isang itim na lace dress.

Her phone vibrates. Sinilip niya ang screen. It's a text from Dylan.

Dylan: "It's a joke, isn't it?"

Kinagat ni Sofia ang ibabang labi at sinilid pabalik sa purse ang phone. "Oh how I wish this is just a prank, Dyl." Mas lalong inuusig siya ng konsensiya. "I even helped him!" Sinapo niya ang noo.

.

.

In the middle of the dinner, everybody is having their own discussion on their table. Even the King and the two Queens have their own topic. Joaquin looks at Marga eating beside her grandmother. He then took it as a sign of good timing. Tumayo siya at kinuha ang wine glass sabay mahinang palo roon sa kutsara. "May I have your attention please."

The party's host announces via microphone. "Prince Joaquin wishes to have your attention, gentlemen, mademoiselles!"

The noise died down as they turn towards the prince.

Yuan nudges his brother's arm. "Here comes the bomb!"

Nabitin ang paghigop ni Marga ng soup nang mahalata ang pananahimik ng mga tao sa bulwagan. She returns her spoon the bowl and looks around. Nakatingin ang mga ito sa prinsipe. Napalingon na rin siya sa kaibigan niya sa kabilang dulo ng lamesa.

Joaquin clears his throat. Naglakad ito papunta sa direksyon niya. Napakurap nalang si Margaret. "E-Eh?"

Sakto namang pumasok mula sa verandah si Sofia. "Oh, great!" She wants to curse out loud as she saw Joaquin lends his hand towards the princess and walked her down the small podium and into the center front of the ballroom. Nag-iwas siya nang tingin.

Naguguluhan pa rin si Marga kung bakit sila bumaba sa podium. 'Sasayaw ba kami?' Joaquin then let go of her hand. "Joa --- "

The prince faces the crowd. "I would like to take this opportunity convey my love..." He turns to her. "...for you, Princess Margaret."

At umani iyon ng singhap at mga kinikilig na tawa mula sa kababaihan.

"Huh?" Gulat na nilingon niya ang prinsipe. "Anong ibig mong sabihin ----" Her world go still when Joaquin starts to express his feelings. 'What?' Mas dinig pa niya sa tainga niya ang malakas na dagundong ng kaniyang puso. Nakatitig lang siya sa bibig ng prinsipe na patuloy pa rin sa salita. She just read his mouth to make-up what he was saying. 'No... no...' Biglang sumikip ang dibdib niya. 'Stop... Joaquin.' She wanted to stop him. She wanted to shout and stop him! 'Stop.'

Her eyes found Sofia standing near a verandah's doorway. On her face is an evident look of guilt and pain.

'No... please.'

"Princess Margaret."

Nanginginig ang kalamnan niya na tiningnan ang prinsipe. Napasinghap nalang siya nang lumuhod ito sa harap niya -- sa harap ng daan-daang tao sa mansion. "J-Joaquin... w-what are you d-doing?" Pabulong nalang niyang tanong. Emotions start to fill her chest.

"Will you marry me?" Bukas ni Joaquin sa isang maliit na itim na box na may kumikinang na diamenteng singsing sa loob.

Margaret clenches her hands into a ball of fist. She looks at the people looking at her, also waiting for her answer. Her rapid breaths and loud thump of her heart ring her ears.

She looks at the King and Queen of Italy above the podium looking so hopefully at her.

Then to her grandma, Queen Mary who stoically nods at her to accepts Joaquin's proposal.

She closes her eyes.

"M-Margaret?" Nagsimulang kinabahan si Joaquin nang ilang minutong dili tuminag ang prinsesa.

> "Remember who you are, Margaret."

> "You gave up your chance to have a choice."

Huminga nang malalim si Margaret. Along with opening her eyes, she un-clenches her hands. Like a puppet on a string, she lends her hand towards Joaquin. She's belongs to the people of Scotland and Ireland – not to herself. Combining the three countries, will benefit a lot pf people.

For the greater good.

Like a doll with strings controlled by the people, by the Queen and by her duty to the throne... she nods. "Yes, Joaquin."

It ignites loud claps and cheers from the crowd.

Queen Mary smiles.

"I can't wait to plan where the church wedding is!" Excited na saad ni Queen Greta.

"Let us cover the expenses." Alok ni king Stefano.

"Then we'll arrange the other activities." Saad naman ni Queen Mary.

Margaret remained seated throughout the whole evening. Emotionless and motionless as she plays her food on her plate. Panaka-naka siyang ngumingiti sa mga taong lumalapit sa kaniya para i-congratulate siya sa engagement niya. As dutiful Princess, she welcomes their greetings warmly.

Sa bulwagan nama'y andoon si Joaquin na siyang sentro ng atensiyon. Friends and relatives keep on coming to him to congratulate him.

Sofia made her way towards the Prince and smiles at him sweetly. "Prince."

"Sofia!" Yakap nito sa kaibigan. "Thank you for the wonderful arrangement."

Tumango si Sofia at sa mababang boses ay nagsalita. "Can I borrow you for a minute?" She looks at people surrounding the prince. "Please?"

"Sure, sure." Inom nito ng wine at nagpaalam sa mga kakilala.

.

.

Underneath the moonlight on the verandah, away from the noisy crowd inside, Sofia hugs her body. "Joaquin."

"Why do you look so somber, Sofie?" Halatang masayang-masaya ang prinsipe sa lapad ng ngiti nito. "Come on, it's my day!"

"I'm sorry to burst your bubble, Joaquin. But..." Lingon niya sa paligid para tingnan na walang tao roon. "Aren't you a bit fast?"

"Fast? Supportive ka naman noong nagpaplano ako di'ba?"

"I-I know, I know." She exasperated. "But... I didn't know it was Margaret!!"

Dumilim ang mukha ni Joaquin. "Bakit?"

"Joaquin, listen --- "

"Are you having second thoughts because she is your cousin's ex-lover?"

"No!" Biglang tumaas ang boses ni Sofia. In a firm and stern voice, she meets his gaze. "All I wanted to say is that you're not giving Isla a choice! Look at her, do you think she's happy? As someone who spends more time with her, you must know how imprisoned she was in that castle! Kung gaano siya sakal na sakal bilang prinsesa! And now you're tying her down for a rush marriage?!"

Di sumagot si Joaquin at nag-iwas ng tingin.

"Alam kong alam mo kung anong totoong saloobin ni Isla sa proposal mo. Kaibigan ko rin siya, Joa ---"

He throws her a nonchalant look. "Yet she said yes."

"It's not her choice!"

"She wears the ring, Sofia. I think you're tired. I'll let the driver drive you to your hotel. Go rest. Thank you for your effort." Tumalikod ito.

"Joaquin..." Hinanakit na tawag niya sa kaibigan. "I'm sorry, but this is a wrong foundation of love."

Huminto ang lalake na nakatalikod sa kaniya. Lumingon ito sa kaniya. "Who are we talking about again, Sofia?"

"Si Isla --- "

"I don't know any Isla. Just Princess Margaret. Good night." At tuluyan na itong pumasok sa bulwagan.

.

.

When the pressure finally seems to heavy on her, Margaret turns to her grandma. "Y-Your Majesty, may I be excused for a moment?"

The Queen looks at her from talking to Queen Greta. "You may."

Mabilis na tumayo si Margaret at tinaas ang palda ng gown sa may tuhod para makababa agad sa podium. Sinundan lang siya ng tingin ng reyna. She pushes a glass door and into a quiet, un-manned hallway.

She walks fast then slows then fast again, didn't know where she headed to. She just wanted to breathe. She just needs a fresh air. Malapit na siyang madapa nang matapakan niya ang sidsig ng gown niya. Napahawak nalang siya sa dingding. Hinihingal siya kahit di naman siya tumatakbo.

Panic anxiety starts to consume her.

She's not crying but she's trembling.

Tiningnan niya ang kumkikinang na singsing sa daliri niya.

> "It's an heirloom passed from generations to generations." Nakangiting suot ni Joaquin ng singsing sa daliri niya. "From my mother... to you."

Inihilamos nalang niya ang mukha sa mga palad niya habang walang tigil na humagulhol.

Sakto namang lumiko si Sofia na papauwi na sana. "Margaret?"

Lumingon siya rito na basang-basa ang mukha ng mga luha. "S-Sofie..."

Agad tinakbo ni Sofia ang kaibigan ang higpit na niyakap. "Oh, Marga..."

Humagulhol nalang na yumakap s Margaret sa babae. "So-Sofia... Sofia... H-Help me... Help me... I-I don't know what to do anymore..."

"I'm sorry." Hingi nalang niya ng tawad. For in her power, she can't do anything to alleviate Marga's pain. "I'm so sorry..."

3 DAYS AFTER THE ENGAGEMENT PARTY

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA, USA | MILLER HEADQUARTERS

Baxter Gio, commonly known as Boyet, sits on the sofa on the wide receiving hall of the 30-floors fancy building as he places his Starbucks Frappe on the glass table. Kinuha niya ang bagong deliver na magazine sa ilalim ng mesa. Before opening the magazine, he looks at the few people that starts to crowd the usually busy building.

Tiningnan niya pambisig na relo. 'Alas 9 pa naman yung meeting niya sa Port Oregon.' Ibabalik na sana niya ang tingin sa magazine ng may dalawang Amerikanang mga secretary ang naglakad palampas sa kaniya.

"Hi, Baxter." Sabay nitong bati sa kaniya.

Ngumiti siya rito at tumango. "Good morning." At di na inalintana ang sumunod na kinikilig na hagikhik ng mga ito. He looks down on the magazine as he grabs his frappe drink. Uminom siya at iniba ang pahina. Agad nagsalubong ang kilay niya sa nakitang pamilyar na mukha sa papel. 'Si Isla 'to 'ah... Oo nga, prinsesa na pala siya---' Naiubo nalang niya ang ininom sa magazine sa nabasang headline. "HA?!"

Mabilis siyang tumayo at tumakbo papunta sa elevator kahit natapon ang frappe niya sa carpet.

Nagmamadali niyang pinindot ang elevator button sa panel habang hawak ang magazine. "BILIS!! BILIS!!" Tiningnan niya ang floor indicator sa taas ng steel door. Papababa pa ito mula sa 3rd floor. "BILIS!!"

.

.

Upon reaching the 29th floor, he nearly fell on his knees when the carpet tangles on his shoes. "s**t!" Agad niya nilabas ang card key sa bulsa at dinikit sa scanner sa pintuan para buksan iyon.

He was welcomed by an empty room. Nilingon niya ang hagdan papunta sa 30th floor ng building. "Sir! Sir!" Hinihingal niyang akyat sa hagdan. "Sir!!"

While catching his breath, he stops as he saw his boss. "Sir."

Loud thumping sounds filled the room. Nakatalikod sa kaniya ang amo niyang pawisan mula sa pagsusuntok sa punching bag.

The man, half-naked and wearing only a black, yoga pants, his body glistens with beads of sweats as his muscles ripples to throw another punch on the punching box hanging by the ceiling. His hands wrapped with bandage to support the his grip and fist.

"Sir!"

He lands another strong punch on the bag.

"Sir!"

Another.

"Sir!"

And another.

"SIR!!!!!" Sigaw nalang ni Boyet.

He stopped the swaying punching bag with both hands upon hearing Boyer's voice. Nakatalikod pa rin ito sa kaniya habang sinisimulang tanggalin nito ang support bandage sa kamay. His huge body rises and falls with every heavy breath from the intense workout.

"Sir!! M-May nabasa po ako sa magazine!!" Balita niya.

Isaiah Clark slicks back his wet golden hair back by raking it with his fingers. He turns to him with an icy, cold blue stare. "What?"