NOT Your GUARDIAN

DANGEROUS

The most dangerous people are always clever, compelling, and charismatic.

***Sasi***

***********

The studio is bustling with staff scurrying around in preparation for the shoot today. This is for one of the prestigious international magazine covers I happened to bag last week. I will be working with four more models, and I am the star. This may sound absurd but there’s nothing to be surprised about. 

I’m always the best.

I entered the bright-lighted large hall in slow strides. The sound of my heels through the pavement resonated in the air and creates an echo so crisp that everyone started to turn their heads in my direction. My red and white-striped satin dress flowing freely from my narrow waistline up to my mid-thigh, its plunging neckline showing the series of moles that runs from the base of my throat down to my chest and further until it disappears beneath the cloth. Its thin strap is hidden beneath my brown highlighted-straight hair that flows down to a white fur coat that rests on my shoulders, giving me that Victoria's secret babe look.

My eyes and almost half of my face are hidden beneath the white-rimmed shades as I saunter through the awe-struck crowd. Photographers couldn't help but snap a few shots, designers held tight on their clothes rack with buckling knees and makeup artists stood motionless with their mouths hanging open. Other female models looked at me with jealousy while the males looked with lust and admiration. Things fell to the ground, papers flew in the air, and coffee got spilled but no one really cared. It is I, who was the center of their attention, and I couldn't blame them for that.

Everyone stopped whatever they were doing and just gawk at me as if I am the goddess of fertility that came to end the draught. Yes, I have 'that' kind of effect whenever I arrive.

Phi Best walked two steps ahead of me, beside me is Ms. Lin, the makeup artist, and behind us is the new bodyguard. Phi Best then goes directly to the director of the shoot while I go for my dressing room.

The incident last week caused a slight uproar because of my fainting and the memory makes me twitch in anxiety.

Well, I don't look awful in the news, and I rather look enchanting as I gracefully fell. That fact eased the annoyance that I felt. At least I look good while I faint. But oh God! Of all the things to happen in a live event. Where scenes cannot be edited out.

Geez!

My bodyguard's face was blurred out in the shots as well as the culprit who was now behind bars, my father made sure of that. I don’t know the details, but Pho assured me that everything has been cleared and I am safe to work again.

Still, I am so lucky to be in a good shape now.

Okay, I must admit my new guard is quite good. He's attentive, has great skills, good looking and his body is to die for including his beefy butt— wait!

Why am I commenting on his body?? What the hell, Sasi?!

I brushed off the idea as we reached the room where I should be changing. It was a small makeshift room with white painted walls. Three paneled mirrors with bulbs on the dressing table and five empty chairs. The clothe-filled racks with different colorful dresses, trousers, and coats were standing by the right wall under a small window. I could see a small door on the farthest corner, must be the bathroom.

As soon as the door closed, I slumped on the chair prepared for me. I slouched and heaved a couple of deep breaths before asking for a bottle of water. People admired me for my confidence while walking like a goddamn mother-f*****g princess but in reality, I am not really like that. It was all an act.

"Damn! That was exhausting!"

 The shoot hasn't started, and yet I'm already tired.

"Ms. Sasi, shall I begin the makeup for the shoot?"

Lin, asked politely. This is why I liked her so much, she's very polite and kind. She knows what to do, when to do it, and how to do it. She was hand-picked by my mom to be my makeup and hairstylist for four years now. Standing at more or less 165 cm., she has a fair complexion, slanted eyes, and full lips. Her small nose looks dainty and not once did I tell her she could pass as a model herself, but she just denied my claim every time.

A few minutes later, phi Best came back to us accompanied by a tall and masculine man no other than my partner in this shoot, Luke. With his towering height of 186cm. and muscular body, the room seemed smaller. I had known him since I started modeling four years ago because he's the son of my mom's best friend, Aunt Tilde. We started at the same time and with his western blood, the audience instantly got hooked. But be wary, looks could be very deceiving.

"Hi my princess!"

Luke came in with a bouquet of fresh pink roses in his hands but what stunned me was when I looked up and saw him in a Spiderman mask. The red full-faced mask with those black screen things on the eyes. He looked like a big angry mosquito.

"What the hell is the mask for?"

"Oh, this? My manager said I have to come in a mask. And so, I did."

He said proudly.

"Ah Luke, I am perfectly sure that Phi Jeen (Luke's manager) means surgical mask, for protection! I came with one myself."

I said showing the disposable mask inside my bag. I have removed it earlier upon arrival at the studio knowing that this place is pollution-free.

"Oh! Really? Do you think so? Ugh, this is embarrassing. This one is my favorite, so I chose to have it on. Oh my god! It never occurred to me, no wonder everyone outside was looking at me."

He took it off his face and I couldn't hold back the giggles as I saw his reddened face.

"Haha.. oh, dear me. Luke, you never fail to humor me. Who is with you? I'm guessing Phi Jeen is not?"

"Yeah, I came alone. Jeen said we could just meet here, and I haven't seen her. I headed straight here when I heard that you already arrived. I need to see you, you know. How are you? Long-time no see."

He moved forward towards me, but the guard immediately stood between us. I was stunned for a while before pinching his suit.

What a hardworking guy!

"Ah Mr., it's okay, Luke is my friend."

He turned to look at me and for a brief moment, our eyes met. I felt the familiar goosebumps that run up my sleeves, so I looked away immediately. What’s with this man? He seems so creepy and yet I feel comfortable around him. The feeling is contradicting and I can’t put the right words to name it.

"Ohoi, you got new security huh? I heard the news, are you okay? You never replied to my messages."

The man moved aside, and Luke bowed down to give me the flowers, hugged me, then give me a peck on my cheek.

"Yeah, I am fine. The stalker is jailed and thanks to this mister here. You know me, Luke, messages are not my thing."

I said smiling. I thought about the guy’s name. Is it Maki or Waki? I don't remember his name, so I just played safe with calling him, mister.

"Yeah yeah. You know, if I was there, that guy would've borrowed a new face from a dog."

Luke said as he straightened up and faced the man standing beside me.

"Wow, thank you so much for keeping my princess safe. I owe you one, Mr.?"

"Raki, sir."

He replied curtly.

"Thank you Raki."

They shook hands while Luke tapped Raki on the shoulders.

So, his name is Raki?

Sounds like a bastard.

Luke and I talked for a while before he was called for his makeup and preparations. Luke has been the longest friend that I have, and he was never silent about his feelings for me. He has confessed that he liked me two years ago and from then on, he kept showering me with flowers and gifts. He kept sending me sweet and thoughtful messages as well, but I seldom replied, only when I felt like it. Mostly, his messages got ignored so he called me instead.

"Ms. Sasi, the shoot will start now. Are you ready?"

Staff called for me after an hour and I took a deep breath to steady myself.

“Y-Yes I am.”

I nodded slightly before standing up took a final look at my face and outfit.

I have been doing this for years, but I still couldn’t help but get nervous every time. 

Will there be a lot of people outside? Are they going to approach me? Or not? I can't help but clasp my hands together.

The flow of thoughts suddenly stopped when I felt something on my ring finger. I looked down to find a silver band of a swan. It's thin and weightless as if I am not wearing anything at all. The simple swan design looked elegant against my skin and though I don’t remember wearing one, I felt the calmness seeping through my being. As if a warm blanket has been put over my shoulders. The ring gave me enough courage as if I could face the world without the anxiety of being surrounded by people.

Where did it come from? Who put it there?

Maybe Phi Best slipped it in?

 Weird.

"Sasi, let's go."

Phi Best tapped my shoulder and I jolted in response.

"O-okay."

I replied as I stepped towards the door of the dressing room. I looked down to check the pink Lirika Matoshi dress that I wore. 

Its sparkling cherry design is very eye-catching and my red cherry earrings paired perfectly with it. I heaved a deep sigh before walking towards the setup. The blinding lights from the spotlights around didn’t bother me enough anymore like before.

Hmm, again, weird.

Two hours have gone by so fast that I almost didn't notice the time. I did great at the shoot and the flowering words of praise from the director were overflowing. I posed for the camera relentlessly, I owned the moment and other models looked like pieces of trash bags next to me, except Luke who was equally brilliant. I don't have any idea how I did that or how I overcome my awkwardness working with other people but the ring that I wore magically transformed me into a supermodel that was oozing with confidence.

I was like a goddess in full display. All my angles were good, the photographer couldn't contain his happiness with the outcome of the shots.

This is amazing! I think I could get used to this.

I stared down at my hand as I sat waiting for phi Best. The ring really looked good on my hand, and it fits perfectly. I thought to call my mom and ask if she gave me the ring but I cannot reach her, so I made a mental note to ask when I get home.

After the shoot, some of my fans were waiting for me at the entrance of the studio. Around twenty or more people were there carrying banners, among them were press people and some paparazzi who took some pictures of me. Raki instantly covered me from the press but with my newly gained confidence, I felt adventurous and walked towards my fans who were asking for an autograph.

"No photos please."

Raki said loudly among the press who were snapping here and there. Phi Best said he will follow us shortly as Lin waited for him, so I and my guard walked ahead.

You cannot stop them stupid. It was their job after all.

One fan, a middle-aged lady wearing a purple blouse and jeans reached out to me with a pen and a notebook.

"Ms. Sasi! Autograph, please! I am your avid fan!"

Her loud yell caught my attention, and I was more than willing to give her an autograph but as I reached for the pen, 

Raki snatched it from my grasp and politely turned to the lady.

"I'm sorry. No autographs today."

He said sternly.

“Ughh.. So sad.”

The fans said in chorus.

The lady looked really disappointed, but I couldn’t do anything but to bow at her and say sorry.

"Hey, it's okay. I could do some autographs."

I whispered, feeling annoyed at his sudden actions.

"Phi Best instructed me not to let you sign today, Miss."

He murmured in my ear and gently guided me towards the parking lot. The fact that I wasn’t aware of it irritates me even more.

Having been embarrassed in front of my fans, my blood boiled in contempt but still managed to smile at them

“Sorry guys, I need to be careful due to health protocols. Sorry! Keep yourself safe and healthy as well..Goodbye.”

I bowed in apology and waved at them before turning towards the parking lot.

“It is not safe given the spreading virus. It’s for your safety.”

Raki said while following behind me.

"How dare you meddle with my affairs?!"

I snapped at him and without a second thought, ran ahead towards the car that was only a few yards away.

He was surprised and couldn't react immediately, so I have distanced myself from him without much difficulty only to get snatched up by two rough hands that snaked around my waist and another over my mouth. 

It happened so fast I until I realized that someone has grabbed me from the side, and it was too late to dodge. I smelled the musky odor of someone who hasn't showered for days, and it brought goosebumps over my body.

Just how lucky am I!? f**k! Someone, save me!!

I was internally screaming while being dragged by the man holding me hostage. I couldn't see him, but I felt his dirty hands over my mouth that I wanted to puke. There's no one in the parking lot at the moment, and my only hope was my bodyguard who was surely just behind me but given the pace we are moving I was wondering where the hell he was.

Until after a few seconds after, I felt relief wash over me when I saw him appear in front. He looked shocked at first but then ran towards me at a speed I couldn't even imagine a normal human could do. He suddenly halted in his tracks when the man holding me stopped and put a knife under my chin.

Oh god!

"Let her go."

He said calmly, standing only two feet away.

"Make me!.he he he."

The man laughed like a psycho that made me fear for my life right now. Is this the end? Am I gonna die today?

"What do you want? I could give it to you. Do you need money? Are you hungry? Let’s have a coffee somewhere, let’s talk about this."

He said as if he's having a conversation with a friend.

Really? What the actual s**t?

He should have been punching this guy right now!

It was too late when I realized that the guy was holding me, some stranger is holding me! This is the most dreadful thing that could happen to me. Being held by some stranger!

I began to panic and Raki saw that in my eyes. His lashes flickered for a bit then turned to the man with a knife to my throat.

“Okay, calm down, let’s talk about this.”

“There is nothing to talk about. I am taking Sasi home. She is mine. I have been wanting to have her since I saw her."

The stranger said deliriously as he began to move backward. I felt like fainting already from the visions of me being taken by some strange guy.

“What?”

Raki’s jaw clenched, and I saw a dangerous glint cross his eyes. His muscles tensed and he crouched down looking at the guy’s foot.

“I am taking what is mine, and there’s no one who can stop me.”

I felt him smile behind me.

Oh! God! 

I could now imagine myself tied in a corner, with a dirty gag on my lips. And being fed with some soup. The picture in my head made me flinch in disgust.

"She isn't yours, god damnit!"

Raki suddenly yelled and even I was stunned. I thought he was taking it calmly.

Don't trigger the psycho!

The hands that were holding me started to tremble.

"Let me just have a taste of her. One time! Just one time, then I'll give her back!"

The guy said and I felt his hands go cold. If in fear or anticipation, I don't have any idea.

What?! Have a taste?! What do you think of me? A Sushi?!

"Believe me, mister, you wouldn't want to do this."

Raki said yet in a calm voice again but there's an underlying danger in it. I could sense the immense aura coming from him.

“Why wouldn’t I? When I can enjoy her sweet smell next to my bed.”

The guy inhaled the side of my ear, and a muffled cry escaped my lips.

“Ughh!!”

Oh please! Quit stalling! Save me now!

I asked Raki mentally as I couldn’t speak due to the big hand that was still on my face.

Wait, maybe he’s stalling because he couldn’t do it? Could he even save me from a knife on my throat?! I’m so f****d up!

“I mean, look at her. She’s not even that beautiful. You should have gone for Yaya or Bom. They are a lot sexier in my opinion.”

Raki replied that have my eyes ogling wide.

What did he just say? I am what?? The audacity to say it to my face?

“Hmm, you are right. Yaya and Bom is a lot cuter. But no, Sasi is who I like most. I am a loyal dog, so I am taking my mistress. And you better not get in my way.”

At this moment, I don’t even know if I should be grateful for this guy being my faithful fan or should be afraid for my life.

“Would you really dare do that?”

"And who would stop me? You? Try it, and you'll see her blood get spilled in this pavement."

I felt the tip of the knife touch my skin that I couldn't help but yelp in fear and instantly closed my eyes.

This is it; this is my end. I'm dying today! God, please don't make me solve math at heaven's gate!

I felt a wind move past my cheeks and in an instant. The hands that held my face and my shoulder was gone. 

In an instant, I was engulfed inside the warmest arms I have ever been. With my eyes still closed, I inhaled in fear and the smell of sandalwood with a touch of mint surrounded my senses. It was the most calming feeling ever, that have me thinking 'Am I dead? Is this heaven now? I want to stay this way for a long time’. 

I have even envisioned myself running into the woods as the breeze played with my hair, I could almost hear the chirping of the birds. It's so liberating. I think I already died.

"Uhm, you can open your eyes now."

A baritone voice pulled me back to reality and when I opened my eyes, I saw Raki looking down on me while I was snuggled safely close to his chest. Again, I was mesmerized by his hazel-brown orbs. His eyes roamed around my face like a soft caress of warmth, and I felt hot. Its depths have me panting like a wanton. I want him to touch me in places that have never been touched before.

What the hell is happening to me?!

“Are you okay? How are you feeling?”

He murmured softly as his breath fanned my face. His fingers held my chin up and in a split second, I thought that he was going to kiss me but instead, he tilted my head to look at my throat where the knife grazed thinly.

I feel hot…Could you please…wait, what?!

In hazy confusion, I pushed him hard away from me and saw that the strange guy was unconscious against the ground. He was wearing a dirty black cap over his head, his face darkened by a massive beard. His clothes were torn and muddy. He was barefooted and his nails brought back the chill in my skin.

"Can you walk?”

He murmured softly as he helped me stand up from the ground.

I nodded gently though my body was trembling. If from the shock of the sudden danger or the hotness that I felt between my thighs, I have no idea.

“Get back to the car. Now."

Raki commanded and I followed silently. With trembling knees, I made my way to the car.

What just happened?

Upon reaching the car, my knees gave way and darkness drowned my well-being. I fainted on the seats.

***

"You have to leave."

I wake up from the sound of my father's voice. I slowly open my eyes and find myself lying on my bed. My mom is beside me on the bed while my father is hovering above us. Worry is plastered on both of their faces, and I smile softly to at least relieve the uneasiness in the atmosphere. 

Then my eyes wandered through the room to find Raki standing near the door frame, looking at me solemnly. His jaws were tightly clenched as if the anguish he’s feeling is going to burst any moment now.

"Honey, I and your dad were so worried about you, so we decided to send you out of the country. You need to take a rest from all of this. I am so sorry my baby, I felt so guilty. This is all my fault."

Mom weeps as she holds my hand.

“Mae, no…It’s not your fault at all. I’m fine. I have been fine in the past four years. You have taken care of me very well. I think I have learned enough. Don’t be too hard on yourself Mae*.”

(Mae= mom)

 (Pho= dad)

“You have to go somewhere as I wrap up things here. I don’t think staying inside the house is enough. And I don’t believe that those two bastards were mere fans. I think this has something to do with my business rivals.”

Dad said sternly.

“What do you mean pho?”

I asked in confusion. The last guy clearly said he is my fan, and I am his favorite.

“I have closed a pretty big deal two months ago, and of course I gained enemies because of that. But I have no idea that they could resort to dirty tricks like this. It is not their intention to hurt you. It was intimidation, to give me a warning.”

Dad stood up from the side of my bed and put his hands on his waist. His brows are furrowed and there are only a few times when I witness my father being this serious. He is always the calm and reserved one while my mom is outrageous and uncontrollable. This only means one thing.

The problem is serious.

“Is that something to do with the Terranyakun’s?”

My mom turned to ask my father. Her fingers tightened around my hand.

“I believe it is. But as long as I’m not yet sure about this, you have to be somewhere safe.”

“Oh my! It’s a mess dad!”

Mom exclaimed

“W-where should I go then? Will you accompany me? Mae?”

 My voice trembled unconsciously as I hope that wherever I am going, my mom won’t let me go alone.

“No honey, as much as I wanted to, I cannot. I have commitments here and I need to fix your contracts. Bester couldn’t do it alone given the number of projects we already signed for. But as soon as I can, I will follow you. I promise.”

 She held my face and kisses me on the forehead.

“But who will come with me? Mae? I’m afraid. I don’t want to go.”

Tears started to pool at the base of my eye sockets but I tried to hold it in.

“Raki.. is your team ready?”

Dad turned to my guard who replied just as seriously.

“Yes, uncle. Everything is set.”

His face is unreadable and that made me fear even more.

“Okay, you will leave in the morning.”

“Wait! Where are we going? Who am I going with? Pho…Are you seriously letting me go with some strangers? Mae?”

My fear turned to disappointment for the hasty decisions without my consent. I am still their daughter and I must have a say about this at least.

“Sshhh, honey, everything is taken care of. Will you trust Mae and Pho?”

She hugged me tightly and my eyes started to sting. Tears are about to drop from my eyes.

“Still, who is this guy that you trust so much?”

I asked looking at Raki who stayed standing on the wall.

“Sasi, dear. Raki is the son of my best friend. He will take care of you even if it means his life. I trust him and you should as well. He already saved you twice, didn’t you see that?”

“But still…”

“Honey, don’t argue with dad. We wanted the absolute best for you and I wouldn’t let you go if I don’t see him trustworthy. But I do, so please bear with us in the meantime… Nah? Nah?”

 “Mae… what should I do? I can’t live without you.”

“I’ll call you every day baby… don’t fret. Dad will make sure you are safe. I can’t live without you as well, but this is for your own good.”

Feeling defeated, I just nodded and bowed my head as the tears flow freely from my eyes.

“Raki and his team will take care of you, sweetie. Don’t worry, Pho will take care of everything fast so that you can come back as soon as you can. Okay?”

Dad sat at the other side of the bed and together, my parents hugged me as tight as possible. 

All my life, I have never been away from my family. I don’t know how to live without my parents. Tears fell from my eyes like rain. I’m worried, afraid, and sad at the same time. Who could’ve thought? I was living a pretty good life and suddenly, everything went down like this. What am I supposed to do now?

***