“You Belong to My Heart” He even tried to court her but Joanna but she was not
--Martha Cecilia-- fond of boys even before. One of the very few women who do
Submitted by:
Aljean M. Sendrijas
CHAPTER ONE
“WELCOME HOME, MR. FRANZ RAMIREZ!”
Joanna made a sad face upon seeing the banner posted in
the gate of the factory. Franz Ramirez will be home for the 10th
anniversary of the factory he owns after seven years of living
abroad.
Joanna could not decide what she should feel. Franz left
San Ignacio together with Cristy, his stepsister, after the burial
of his father Don Manuel Ramirez.
“Good morning, Miss Joanna.”
Joanna wondered where the voice came from. She smiled
when she knew who it was. It was Rigo dela Serna. She did not
notice that Rigo’s pick-up was parked beside her.
“Hello, Rigo. Are you with Lacey?”
“I was from textile,” Rigo answered with a smirk. He
moved his attention to the beautiful lady. He’s four years older
than Joanna. But they were friends since college. They were
even neighbors before they moved to another house.
not swoon for his looks. Second, he does not want her to be
scolded by her mother, Angelina. His mother, Amelia said that
Angelina does not want her daughter to be distracted with her
studies. Third, he doesn’t want to be rival with his friend Arnel
in courting Joanna. It’s even shocking that until now, Arnel
wasn’t able to win Joanna’s heart after courting her for so long.
“Are you joining the anniversary celebration of the
factory?” asked Joanna to Rigo. Which is a stupid question
because the textile company Rigo manages is the supplier of
cloth in export-import undergarment for the factory of Ramirez.
Aside from that, Rigo is a great friend of Franz Ramirez.
“Sure. I’ll be there with my wife. It’s a great opportunity
to be and see Franz. I want him to meet Lacey.” There were
sparkles in his eyes upon saying the name of his wife. “He was
gone for a while, wasn’t he?
Joanna nodded. “When Don Manuel died, they left San
Ignacio. They left the factory in the hands of Mr. Gabriel,” she
was talking about the vice-president who was a far relative of
the Ramirez family. And last month, Mr. Gabriel talked about
going to America for his prostate gland operation. Perhaps, it
was the reason why Franz is coming back to the Philippines.
“He is married. Did you know that?” she asked Rigo
while trying to hide the pain that cuts her chest. Rigo nodded.
“We have communicated this past two years. He even
married before I did,” answered Rigo which shocked Joanna.
She knew they were friends but she didn’t thought they had
communication lately. But why should she be mad at Rigo for
not telling her. Perhaps Rigo thought she already knew because
she’s one of the employees in the factory.
“Except for those first few years when I was not here in
San Ignacio. Franz kept sending me cards,” he continued.” And
he has a five-year old daughter. Maybe his whole family would
be coming back to San Ignacio for good.” Rigo hoped so.
He and Franz were of the same age but when they were
in third year college, he was only in second year. They were also
friends with Arnel. But Franz first left San Ignacio before the
scandalous incident about the father of Lacey.
Franz never left his goodbye to them. There was not even
a single communication coming from him. If it wasn’t because
of factory Rigo would have thought his friend evaporated in the
air. Until the last three years he was able to connect with his
friend overseas.
They used to do wild things together. Womanized
together. Fight together. But Franz was a little gentler than him
because of his sick father. When Franz left St. Ignatius College
in the middle of the semester, Rigo faced being infamous alone,
which he really didn’t like.
They were poor and Franz was rich. If only Franz was
here during his struggle, he was sure Augusto would not be able
to put him in jail. Franz’ family has more power in this town than
Don Augusto before.
But all’s well that ends well. It taught him to continue
life no matter what.
“I don’t think so,” Joanna answered. “Franz is used to
living abroad and I’m sure his wife would not want to stay here
in San Ignacio. I heard she’s Filipina-American.
“We don’t know. I know Franz, Jo. In fact, he loves
living a simple life. And he loved the sea and the mountain,”
answered Rigo while reminiscing the old times. “Is Arnel invited
to the event? Rigo added.
“Of course. In fact, he offered himself to be my escort.”\
“And when can we sip a hot soup?” teased Rigo. “I’m
starting to feel pity to that friend of mine. It’s been years since
he courted you. Why don’t you just accept his love? He’s
handsome and has a nice job.”
Joanna started to smile. Her dimples showed up. “Aside
from being a mechanical engineer and a mechanic in a literal
way, you’re now the lawyer of Arnel, Rig.”
“Come to think of it, you are really so beautiful when
you smile like that,” he said ignoring what she said. “Why can’t
I remember you smiled to me like that before or I would have
swept you off your feet,” teased him.
Joanna laughed. “You’re married now and I feel safe
you’re your lethal charms Rigo dela Serna. And I know how
much you worship and love your wife.”
“Shhhh…. Don’t let Lacey hear that. She might be used
to that,” he added while his eyes sparkles.
She rolled her eyes. “Now that you’re here, why don’t
you just take me home?”
 “With pleasure, sweetheart.” He hurriedly opened the
other door and Joanna went inside the car.
“You know what, there are only two people I heard with
that endearment in my whole life.” She unknowingly said.
“Who are they?”
“You, and of course, you also call your wife that way.”
She’s a year older than Lacey and they were not batch mates.
She was already in college while Lacey was still in high school.
Aside from that, their economic status were heaven and earth.
But they became friends when Lacey and Rigo married. “And
Fran---“ she stopped on time. “Anyway, how’s Bea?” she
instantly changed the topic. The youngest sister of Rigo studies
in Manila together with their mother.
But Rigo stared at her. And Rigo focused to the driving
again. And he asked slightly.
“Do you mean, Franz, Joanna?”
Joanna did not look at Rigo. She focused her attention to
the way.
“Is he the reason why Arnel couldn’t win your heart?”
“What are you talking about, Rigo?” she innosently
laughed but did not looked at Rigo.
“You already knew I only see Arnel as my brother. And
no one is involved to what I feel for him.”
But Rigo could not be tricked. “I only thought of that just
now, Joanna. I could not remember a single moment you
accepted courtship from men even before the day we became
friends. Although, we were not close because you’re aloof. I
consider you my friend. I’m comfortable with you because I
knew you’re different from the girls who looks like they want to
bite me whole.”
Joanna laughed out loud. “Even up to now you’re still
conceited, Rodrigo dela Serna. But you’re right. I’m not
interested in you or to any other guys out there.”
“And that was because of my friend who suddenly left
this town, right?” he asked Joanna who lost the smile on her
eyes. “Franz was so secretive and protective when it comes to
you before. Don’t I have something to know?
“Now, where did you get that idea?” she tried to be
casual despite the shaking of her voice.
“Come now, Joanna. Your secret is safe with me. I was
just curious. During those times you were living in their house,
right? She nodded; wishing the topic was changed.
“I remember when Franz always hurries home every
time your classes end. Wherever we go, whenever we were with
some girls. I asked him once about it, even teased him. But he
said he promised Tito Manuel to do that because you’re a girl
and your house was far from the main road. It’s his conscience
to whatever happens to you and I believed him. Franz was so
sweet and protective even to Bea and Cristy.”
“But for no reason at all he and Cristy left San Ignacio
when their father died. Without even saying goodbye. And we
are friends, we treated each other more than brothers. And it was
not a good reason to leave in the middle of the semester. What
happened, Jo?” his curiosity widened.
 “C’mon Rigo! You’re not fit for a detective.” She tried
to calm herself. “He mourned for his loss that’s why he left San
Ignacio. Are there any other possible reasons aside from that?”
“They have a business here ran by paid people. Franz
should be handling their multimillion garment business. Why,
his family is one of the riches in this town.”
“Oh, well, the company is doing well. The management
of Mr. Gabriel is good,” she casually answered.
“Oh, well, whatever it was, I really missed him. Miss the
days when we used to paint the whole town red. Arnel is a friend,
a real friend. But you knew him, conservative. And I am sorry I
did not have any idea why Franz left San Ignacio without saying
goodbye because I had problems with Lacey’s father before. I
hope he will explain some things when he comes back.”
I hope not. She whispered.
CHAPTER TWO
It was the anniversary day of the company. Joanna could
not stop from looking at herself in the mirror. She looked at her
face to see if her makeup is too much or too light. Then someone
knocked the door in the living room. She hurriedly went out and
opened it.
“Arnel…”
“Hello, beautiful.” He looked at the lady in her silk black
mini dress which is simply maid. It was sleeveless and slightly
shows her cleavage in a provocative but subtle fashion. It was fit
for her slender body and has slit on the side. Her long hair was
let fallen. She emphasized her best asset, her eyes, through
applying a heavier mascara.
“You’re early, Arnel. Come on in.”
“You literally took my breath away, Joanna,” he
sincerely said towards the lady.
Joanna laughed. “Thank you very much, Arnel. Do I
really look pretty in this dress?” she doubted. And she suddenly
became vain when all her life she does not get conscious with
what she wears. But this time she even managed to see a tailor
for her dress. Even if it took her pocket her month’s pay.
Was it because she wanted to impress Franz? But her
conscious mind denied it. What happened between him and
Franz was over seven years ago. And she’s foolish if until now
she would dream to have Franz now that he’s married.
 “I have never seen you like this before, Joanna. Oh, yes,
you’re beautiful, there’s no doubt to that. But tonight, you’re
stunning. You will beat them all, even the classy Mrs. Lacey dela
Serna.
She smirked. “Lacey in beautiful. Much prettier now that
she’s pregnant.”
“Yes, she is. But your beauty is unique. You have that
mysterious look. Your eyes seem to be hiding a deep secret that
every guy would wish to know. They could be untold delights.”
Joanna laughed loudly. “When did you became a
comedian, Arnel?”
“I’m everything and more when I am with you, my
darling,” he whispered huskily.
Joanna looked away. She grabbed the clutch bag from
the old chest. “Let’s go. I’m sure everybody’s there already.”
She stepped through the door. Arnel followed and closed the
door. Joanna first went to reach the car.
“I’m sure I’ll be dealing men who wants to dance with
you tonight, Joanna. Not to mention married men, too.”
Joanna smiled. “Don’t worry friend, I will save the last
dance for you.”
“Not just the last dance. I want to dance every piece with
you,” he aggressively said.
Not long enough and they reached the factory building.
There were already a lot of cars parked in the parking lot. Not to
mention all the employees who are surely present in the event
tonight. And she could not stop herself from being nervous and
was too glad when Arnel held her arm and ushered her inside to
the elevator.
A lot of lights were added to the decoration in the
rooftop. It was almost full with employees and friends. She
greeted her co-employees with a smile. All the girls’ eyes were
on her showing awe. The boys were wanting to take the place of
Arnel. The guy was so proud in assisting her. He is escorting the
prettiest woman tonight.
It was still far when Joanna saw Mr. Gabriel talking to
the couple Rigo and Lacey who is still pretty despite being four
months pregnant.
And her heart stopped beating when he saw another guy
standing talking to him. Franz Ramirez! Seven years passed and
there were changes in his looks and never will she be mistaken
by that.
Never in this lifetime!
Stood there like a king, in this towering six-foot-over
height, that if Rigo wasn’t also tall, he might overpower each
and every one inside the room. And handsome as always. While
Rigo is handsome like a matinee doll, Franz was carved from a
rough wood by an expert sculptor.
Franz was the only one who’s not in formal attire at that
moment. In his original Levis jeans and signature pale yellow
sports shirt. And who cares, he owns the whole company.
She was first seen by Lacey, waving. She smiled and
went towards her.
 “You’re stunning, my dear.” She whole-heartedly said to
her.
“Thank you. And you, too. Being pregnant suits you.
You’re glowing, Lace.” She said sincerely.
Lacey laughed. “So my husband says.”
“Well, what have we got here, mutual admiration
society,” Rigo said.
“Franz!” Arnel waved his hand when he knew who it
was. “Which part of the world have you been hiding and you
only showed up now, bro?”
“To the neighboring province, bro,” he answered while
his eyes were on Joanna slowly losing his smile. Animosity,
admiration or anger no one could tell what his face says.
“Oh yeah. In English countryside, European provinces,
and American jungle,” said Arnel which made everybody
laughed.
“You’re beautiful, Joanna. Look at all the men. They’re
all looking at you,” said Mr. Gabriel.
“Thank you,” she politely appreciated the gesture. Then
she calmly spoke to Franz. “Hello, Franz. Welcome back.”
But Franz did not reply showing the animosity that could
not be hidden in his face at that time. She tried to pick up herself
to manage the humiliation of being ignored. Rigo came to the
rescue.
“Joanna, I said to Arnel to hurry in courting you and I
really want to sip a hot soup,” Rigo said. “Now, man, have you
already decided when would be your wedding?
Before Arnel could even answer, Franz smiled his heart
out and aggressively asked Joanna which shocked everybody.
“So you’re getting married?” He was like a detective asking
Joanna looking through her eyes.
She was shocked. “Everybody has to somehow,” she
said. She doesn’t want Arnel to take the opportunity to pursue
his goal.
“Well if you intend to keep working here, you’d better
not be married. I don’t want a married secretary,” he said in a
formal tone. Rigo cleared his throat. Mr. Gabriel shook his head.
And Arnel voiced.
“She doesn’t need to work when she marries, Franz. I
may not be rich but I can provide for my wife and family,” he
proudly said.
“What is it you dislike from a married secretary, Franz?”
asked Mr. Gabriel.
“Maternity leaves and all problems that entail married
life in women,” he formally answered.
“Isn’t that a double standard?” Joanna asked.
“I own the company, Miss Samson,” he snapped.
At that moment, Lacey asked something to change the
topic. “Do you mean you will stay here permanently, Franz>?”
 “I have no choice,” answered Franz to Lacey who smiled
and change the mood. “No one else would manage the factory. I
could not let this company be bankrupt. I inherited this from
Papa.”
“Glad to hear that, man,” said Rigo. “We’ve missed you,
you know.”
“With a pretty wife around, I don’t think so.” His smile
widened to Lacey. A smile that could melt a hard stone. A music
played in the room. An old song that has no meaning but the
lyrics affected Joanna.
Let me call you sweetheart…
I’m in love with you…
Let me hear you whisper
that you love me too.
“Let’s dance,” said Arnel to Joanna. At that moment
Joanna would dance to anybody including the janitor just to
drive her attention away from Franz.
“Of course.” And Arnel assisted her to the dancefloor.
“Are you staying at your house, Franz?” Rigo asked
Franz and looked after Joanna.
Franz nodded and turned his attention back to the group.
“I asked the maids to clean the house carefully. Nobody lived
there for years.”
“How’s Cristy?”
“You know that girl, always wants to be the center of
attraction. Expect her to engage soon,” he said. “She will come
along with my daughter, Vida.”
Rigo nodded. Then he escorted his wife and danced. “Get
yourself a partner, friend.”
Franz didn’t answer and smiled then turned his attention
back to Joanna.
“You’re so cold,” Arnel felt the hands of Joanna.
“It’s cold here in the rooftop,” she spoke as an alibi. She
could not help herself from looking at the girl at the door, it’s
Cristy. Beside her was a beautiful young girl. That must be
Franz’s daughter.
Joanna’s eyes looked for Franz and when she did, he was
carrying the child. She saw how happy Franz was upon seeing
the girl.
She frowned when she saw Cristy kissed him in his
cheeks. Well, there was nothing unusual from that. She focused
on the dance.
“The wind blows differently between you and Franz,”
said Arnel. “Is there any problem after seven long years and you
just met again?”
She did not react. “He probably resented that I worked
here.”
“I can’t see reasons. You used to stay with them before
and Don Miguel liked you that much. And you are a very
efficient secretary. In fact, he could have at least be discreet
about it. Not even in his welcoming party.”
“Oh, let’s not talk about him. Perhaps he’s just tired and
still has jet lag,” she said.
When the music stopped and a new one was about to
start, Arnel wouldn’t have let go of the dance but Franz tapped
his shoulder.
“That’s enough, man. Let me dance with her this time,”
Franz joked.
“Sure, Franz.”
A few moments later, Joanna was dancing with Franz.
“So you’re my employee? You really took advantage of
my father’s will to make yourself comfortable here. Well done,
Joanna Samson, well done,” he said sarcastically.
Joanna took a breath. She could not find an answer to
what he just said. She only thought of the moment when she was
on his arms. His chest where she could hear his heart beating.
His expensive cologne he used that tickling all her senses.
“And the money he left you, where did you use it,
Joanna?” he continued. “Did you use the money you got because
you were advantageous to reaching your ambitious dreams?”
She winced silently. She tried to ease the pain in her heart
upon hearing his words. She tried to meet his gaze.
“Where have you been all these years, Franz?” She
casually asked trying to remove herself as the topic.
“Here, there and everywhere. But all those years I’ve
been haunted with what you did to my father,” he hissed in her
ear.
She closed her eyes for two reasons. From the anger in
his voice and the touch of his breath to her ear that gave her
goosebumps.
“How many people have you tricked when Papa died?”
he said while holding her so tight.
“Y-you’re holding…me so tight, Franz…”
“For your information, I want to throttle your throat right
now!” he whispered so that nobody could hear except Joanna.
But to her, it was like a thunder.
“Why did you have to take me to a dance if you were that
angry with me?”
“To let you remember what foolishness you did to me
and my father.”
“I…I…loved your father, Franz, no matter what you
thought of me.” She tried to choke a sob.
“Are you denying that you were the reason why he died
early, Joanna?”
“You believed in that, right? And I’m sure until now so
what’s the point of what I’m about to say!”
“Of course!” He grabbed Joanna to the back side of the
rooftop. She almost cut her pulse because he was holding her so
tight.
 “How could you say that? Cristy saw what you did!”
“Oh, your nice stepsister.” Sarcasm was obvious in her
tone. “OH, yes, she saw and heard it all, right? All proved to
you.” Her smile mocking.
Franz frowned. “My sister was not able to sleep for
nights because of that?”
“I’m not surprised with that.” She continued.
“What do you mean?”
“Nothing,” she turned back and looked down where she
could only see trees and the sea from the rooftop. Now she’s
really cold.
“I just want you to know that we’ll be together every
single day, Joanna...”
“Of course. In case you want another secretary, you can
choose from the clerical pool.”
“Oh no. you can’t get away from that easy. I will be
watching you every minute, Joanna, like a thief,” he threatened
her. She wanted to scream for what he said.
“My head aches, Franz. Let’s go back inside,” she asked.
But before he could answer, Cristy appeared with his daughter.
“Oh, there you are, Franz. Your daughter was looking for
you.”
“Hello, Daddy. It’s so crowded inside.” Cristy looked at
Joanna.
“Y-you’re Joanna, aren’t you?”
“Hello, Cristy.”
“Oh, w-well…I’m glad to see you, Joanna…”
“Really?” she raised her brows. “After you saw what I
did to Don Manuel?” she sarcastically said.
“Oh, w-well, I have forgiven you for that…”
“Hypocrisy becomes you, Cristy.”
Cristy casually went to Franz and frowned.
“Why is she here?”
“She works as Mr. Gabriel’s secretary as what Papa’s
testament stated. And now my secretary.”
“You allow her working here after what she did to
Papa?”
“I thought you just said you have forgiven her?”
“Politeness. That’s all.”
“I’ll retain her until she does nothing wrong. According
to the company’s record, she has been working here two years
after we left. And that means, she’s been here for five years. And
Mr. Gabriel has no complains. And I cannot terminate her for no
reason. Besides, I don’t want to be unfair with the labor practice.
She will only be terminated if I found out unfit for the position
in the reasons the testament states,” he said angrily.
‘Why did Papa care for her so much, Franz?”
“He was taken by the innocent look.”
 CHAPTER THREE
Joanna stayed until the party was over. Franz did not talk
to her after that. She tried to circulate and talk to people. She’d
die than let Franz know she’s affected by his presence. It was the
reason why she stayed even if she wanted to go home.
She dance almost every piece. With Arnel, with friends,
and once with Rigo.
“Did you know that all the men you danced with were
stared by Franz?” he said.
“It’s just your imagination.”
“You’re killing me with curiosity, Joanna.”
“And many died because of that, Rig,” she answered
laughing.
“No kidding, Joanna, I could smell some problems.
Whatever is happening between the two of you, I’m only here
whenever you need help from me and Lacey.” He seriously said.
He added: “What are friends for?”
“Thanks, Rig. Don’t worry, I’ll take note of that.”
“I know you’re alone, Joanna. But I won’t force you.
You can do it in your own good times.”
She smiled. She looked at Cristy sharing the same table
with Franz, Vida and Mr. Gabriel.
“Why aren’t you dancing with Cristy? I can see she’s
giving you that ‘come on’ look lately.”
“Lacey would kill me,” he joked. “She only trusts me
with you.” she laughed with him.
Arnel brought her home after the party.
“Don’t I really have a chance on you, Joanna?”
“I like you, Arnel. Even before in college. But only as a
friend, not as a boyfriend or a husband.” She said. “I never said
you assume.”
“I’m still not losing hope, Joanna. Just don’t close the
door to your heart.” She nodded and went out of the car.
When she reached the bed, she then laid down. The first
hurdle in meeting Franz was easy. She could handle the next
days to come.
She looked at the ceiling and the memories came flashing
back seven years ago.
She was barely seventeen and an irregular second year
student.
“SHOOT, Joanna, shoot!” cheered the team she belongs
in the interschool competition for girls.
She was holding the ball and only seven seconds left
before the game ends. The opponent has a one-point lead. The
other team is confident to win because she was not good in the
game. Someone is after her but did not give the best effort to get
the ball from her.
 A little prayer and more concentration she threw the ball
in the ring. Like a slow motion she watched as it went through
the ring.
Four seconds…three…two…shoot!
The students screamed and shouted for joy. Their
department won and Joanna was the star.
“What did those engineering students have!” Mr. Gores,
their coach, happily said. “I will treat you in town, girls.”
“Yehey!” they all said. A few moments later the trophy
was awarded to the captain ball of the commerce department.
Congratulations!” he greeted. “I never, for one moment,
doubted that you will not make it.”
She pouted. “Don’t kid with me. Even I, myself, could
not believe I was able to shoot the ball.”
Franz smiled. “Imagine, our department lost because of
that lucky shot. I did not thought of that because the best players
in the varsity of St. Ignatius belongs to the engineering
department and we helped them practice.”
“That I can believe. With you and Rigo as their trainers,
I knew we would lose. That was what my teammates also
believed.
“But I’m glad your team won, sweetheart, if only for
you.”
“Why do you always call me that? Somebody might hear
you and think I really am your sweetheart.”
“I want to call you that. Don’t you want that?”
She answered a sweet smile to him and her dimples
showed on her cheeks. Heavens! She always loved to hear him
calling her sweetheart even if they were not in a relationship.
“Don’t smile at me like that and I’ll kiss you right here
and now,” he threatened.
“Franz Ramirez, don’t threaten me. I know you won’t do
that.”
“If I haven’t known you, I would think you were
challenging me, Joanna Samson,” he said.
She smiled again. She does not believe Franz would do
that. Why, there not even in a relationship. In fact, for over a
month now, she’s been living in his house. And before that, she
was a stranger to him. He doesn’t even know he existed.
Her adopted mother, Angelina, was a nurse in a
provincial hospital. She left the hospital when Don Manuel
needed a private nurse.
Within a year, Angelina reports to Don Manuel. She goes
home if he’s asleep and comes back before he wakes. Until an
accident killed Angelina. That was when she was only in the first
semester in her first year in college.
She did not know what to feel. Would she grieve or be
happy because she’s now free. But her death was not a great loss
to her aside from the financial support she gave her before.
She was adopted by Angelina when her mother left her
in the hospital and never came back. She sent her to school. Not
because she wanted a child but because she wanted company
when she gets older. When she was hurt by her first love, she did
not think of ever getting married. She was not hurt physically
but she could not remember a moment she felt love from her.
She always says only one dialogue.
“You owe everything to me, Joanna,” she said. “You
don’t have the right to get married unless you pay all the service
and time I gave you.”
She was never allowed male friends. The moment
Angelina would find out she’s entertaining suitors, she would
humiliate her in the street.
She’s very down to earth. She considers herself lucky
than those who are left in the orphanage. She was fed, dressed,
and sent to school by Angelina. That’s enough and she’s
contented.
And when Angelina died, Don Manuel asked her to be
his caregiver. She has a little background about nursing job. She
grew up there. She accepted the offer. And that was when her
life changed.
“Checkmate.” She said while laughing at Don Manuel.
“I can’t believe it,” said the Don.
“That’s two in a row, Don Manuel.”
“Well, I guess I have to concede,” he said while
laughing. “If I challenge you for another game and lose again
that will surely bury my pride.” Then he looked at her. “Why
don’t you just let this old man win?”
“I’m sure you’re not serious about winning like that.”
She raised her brow. “You’ll know when I will lose, where’s the
justice in that?”
“Alright, alright!” He raised his hands in amusement. He
told the maids to get a drink. “How’s your studies, hija?”
“It’s okay, Don Manuel. I thank you for supporting me
in my studies now that my mother’s gone.”
She enrolled in a night class in that semester so she could
take care of him the whole morning.
“I’m proud of your determination and perseverance,
Joanna. I wish Cristy would be like you.” He was talking about
his stepdaughter. “She’s spoiled and only costs me expenses and
stress. She even wants to study in Manila when in fact St.
Ignatius is a good school. You see Franz, my son, studies there.”
Cristy is a year older than her. “She would realize that
somehow, Don Manuel.”
“I doubt it, Joanna. Franz tolerates that girl. Why, my son
really loves that girl like a real sister. Well, Cristy was only six
when I married her mother and Franz was then thirteen. There
were times I wanted to tell Franz what I hate about Cristy but I
don’t want to change his views of her. For him, she’s a dear little
sister.”
“As a man gets older, he learns. What do we know?
Perhaps tomorrow or next day, Cristy might change her ways.”
“Well, I hope so, Joanna.” After that, she seriously
looked at her. “I have lots of money, hija. I could easily send you
to school. But I don’t want to do that to you. I want you to
succeed because you worked for it. I will always be here to
support you. Success is the sweetest if you worked hard for it.”
“Thank you so much, Don Manuel.” She said. “Being
able to study at night is more than enough for me.”
“Hello, Papa, Joanna.” Franz said. He just arrived from
school. “Why aren’t you ready yet? It’s already 3 o’clock.”
“It’s still early, Franz. My first subject will start at 4
o’clock, remember? And it takes only one ride to get to St.
Ignatius.” She said while holding her over driving heart.
“You get ready now, hija. And you drive Joanna to
school, Franz.” He ordered his son.
“Sure, Papa. I’ll go get changed.”
She wanted to reject the offer but she did not. She would
take the opportunity to be near Franz. She did not let herself be
in the illusion. There’s nothing wrong with dreaming. Surely, the
BIR would not sue her for admiring a man.
“Slow down, Franz!” she screamed.
The Wrangler jeep has no roof. And that was known in
the whole San Ignacio. If Rigo was marked with a motorcycle,
Franz’s was a topdown Wrangler jeep. Dust is left when Franz
drives it. Fast and wild.
“Are you scared?” he said mocking.
“I don’t want to die before my time yet!” she screamed.
She held tightly on the stainless grip.
Franz laughed loudly. “You won’t!” he reduced his
speed a bit. “Your life is too boring, Joanna. You don’t want
thrill even just a little.
“If it bores you to be careful and appreciate life, then I’m
sorry for you,” she pouted and fixed her hair.
“I won’t let you get hurt, sweetheart.” He formally said.
Franz stopped the jeep at the gate of St. Ignatius. “I’ll pick you
up after your class, alright? Just wait at the gate.” He said as she
stepped outside the jeep.
“What for? There are jeeps and tricycles.”
“Sweetheart, I don’t trust drivers. You’re beautiful. What
if something happens to you? You’re clumsy.” He said giving
emphasis to the last word he said.
“You moron!” she was aiming her notebook at him but
he managed to get away from it. He laughed and started the
engine, winked at her and drove the Wrangler. Some girls stared.
She kicked the stone. “Clumsy, huh?”
She was happy being with his family. There even times
when she caught Franz looking at her but she gave no malice to
it. She’s not the typical girls for Franz Ramirez. A lot of girls,
rich and famous, are into him. Him and Rigo dela Serna. The
only difference is that Franz is rich.
She was in the campus on Sunday. Don Manuel allowed
her to attend their volleyball practice. She was leaning on a tree
when somebody covered her eyes from behind.
“Guess who?”
 “Frankenstein?” “Who’s your type? Shirley’s friend?”
“Wrong.” “That was a game.” He looked at her. “Jo, have you had
a boyfriend? Have you been kissed?”
“Dracula?”
She took a deep breath. Franz was just being friendly and
“You can guess better that those two, Joanna.” He let go,
casual, no more no less.
laughed and sat down the grass.
“If I didn’t have a boyfriend, how could I be kissed?”
“I knew it was you because of your cologne.” And even
without it I would know it’s you. She wanted to add. “Why are “It doesn’t follow. But you have a lot of suitors.”
you here?”
“They’re not my type.”
“To watch your practice and to witness pretty legs.” He
“Who’s your type, Arnel?” there’s irritation in his voice.
stared at her legs. She whipped him with her towel.
“You often are together, right?”
“Lecher!”
“We’re just friends, like you and Rigo.”
“Can you blame me if I saw your legs just now? You’re
“Good to know that. I don’t want to be rival with a
always on uniform. At home, you always wear walking shorts or
friend.” He frowned. Franz looked at her lips. She looked back
pants.” He cut a grass and played it in her legs.
to the fields.
“HEY!” she tapped his hands.
“Jo…”
“Joanna, you’re having goosebumps. Look!” teased
“Hmmm…” she still did not look at him.
Franz.
“Don’t let anybody kiss you. It’s mine.”
“Franz, I’m annoyed and my teammates are looking at
us!” She turned to him. “Franz, I don’t like that joke! Don’t
bring me to a good time.”
“You’re always annoyed. And don’t mind them. They
always look at me.” “You know, Mr. Playboy, if I don’t live with you, the son
of Don Manuel, I have kicked you already.”
“Agnes likes you.” she was talking about their captain.
“If you stand up and leave me here I would grab you till
“Sorry for her. She’s not my type.”
you fell on me. And you’re giving me the chance to give your
first kiss here in broad daylight and in front of this audience.” “I can’t say no to Papa. And besides, our house is distant
He said seriously. from the highway. What if the tricycle boy does something to
her?”
She wrinkled her nose. “Your taste is awful. You even
want to have me? I’m just your maid.” She tried to be sarcastic. “You don’t like her?” He continued.
“If you intend to make me angry, then congratulations!” Franz did not answer and stared at her. “She’s not a
he stood up and stared at her. “What are you saying?” he asked game, friend. Polite and friendly because she lives with us.”
angrily. She did not answer. “Does a maid has her own room
“I’m glad to hear that, friend,” he emphasized. “I don’t
with complete amenities? Eats with my family? Taken and
want her getting involved in our foolishness. She grew up with
picked up from school?”
all the burden and I don’t want to add in that. Not even a serious
“Franz, I hate it when you’re angry. I’m sorry, okay?” he man like Arnel.”
did not answer and leaned on the tree. The silence was broken
“I would kill Arnel if she fooled Joanna,” he said to Rigo.
when Rigo came.
“Let’s go,” said Rigo. “Hello, Jo.”
“Where?”
“We’ll take Shirley home with her classmate, Angie.
They’re both game, friend.”
Joanna looked at the field. Then she glared at the two
boys.
“I’ll be going back to the practice.” She did not wait for
the response and went on.
“I’ll pick you up later.” Franz said.
“Are you two in a relationship?” asked Rigo.
“No. Why?”
“Why do you regularly pick her up?”
 CHAPTER FOUR
Franz was at the gate. After 10 minutes of waiting she
decided to go home. She notice that his jeep wasn’t there. She
changed her uniform with a cotton duster and peep if Don
Manuel was asleep. Then she went to the library to do research.
A few minutes of sitting on the carpet, the door slightly
opened.
“I’ll eat later. Aling seling, you go to sleep. “I’ll just
finish my research.”
“I’ll just bring our food here. I don’t want to eat alone.”
She raised her hand up.
“Franz!”
He smiled. “Sorry sweetheart, I was not able to pick
you up.”
“Rigo and I had to deal with some matter.”
“There’s no need to say sorry’ Franz. It’s not your
obligation to pick me up. I know your father tells you to don that
and I thank you. But please, don’t feel obligated. You have your
own affairs to attend to.”
Franz kneeled. “Papa has nothing to do with what I’m
doing, Joanna. “It’s my obligation to pick you up every night.”
“Why do you obligate yourself?” She asked out of
curiosity and unconsciously licked her lower lip.
“This is why. He grabbed and kissed her.”
It was a tender kiss. Befitting for a girl who had not been
kissed yet. His lips touching and playing and lightly exploring,
and ripping gently
Her moan choked on her throat. She was shocked,
electrified. Franz let go of her lips and looked at her face. Her
eyes widen and she was stricken to utter word.
“I told you, I will give you your first kiss,” he whispered
huskily. His gaze lingering on her soft mouth for a moment.
“Now, you’ll get the real kiss sweetheart.” And before she could
move, Franz moved his mouth against hers, as if inviting her to
do the same. His hand was on his neck and the other was
caressing her throat seductively.
He kissed her endlessly. Long and sensual kisses that
made her shiver. He coaxed her mouth to open. She
unconsciously did and the thrust his tongue deeply and then
withdraw and thrust again, teasing and tormenting her own
tongue to his lips and the moment she did, he moaned harshly
and kissed her hard and deep and wild.
When Franz hugged her tight, she suddenly felt his
arousal. She met her hands on his chest and tried to catch her
breath.
“Are kisses supposed to be like that?” She asked
breathlessly.
“Like what?”
“W-why, it---was so scandalous!”
 “Prude. Didn’t you like it? Tell me honestly.”
“D-do I have to like it?
“How come at seventeen you’re so unspoiled?”
“Well, I’m sorry if---if you did not enjoy the kiss! “How
she wished at that moment to have a boyfriend and she already
knew how to kiss.
Franz frowned. “I’m paying you a compliment.”
“Don’t fool me.” She was annoyed. “If saying I’m
unspoiled and not able to kiss is a compliment, how come you
and Rigo enjoyed dating women with experiences?”
He smiled irresistibly. “Because they’re have today and
gone tomorrow.”
“What is that supposed to mean? For how many weeks
Shirley has been Rigo’s current girlfriend.”
Franz tried not to lough if he did, she will surely get
angry.
He stood up.
“I’ll get us food.”
“You did not answer the question.”
He sighed. “Meaning, Shirley is the kind of girl who
understood that Rigo is interested only in one thing. And when
it’s over, it’s over.”
“What do these girls get out of it aside from heartaches
because I don’t believed for one moment Shirley would feel
nothing when Rigo breaks up with her?”
“I don’t want to answer that question for fear of self-
incrimination,” he laughed while walking towards the door.
It’s been minutes he left and Joanna was still looking at
the door. Her fingers touched her throbbing lips. She’s seventeen
and for the first time in her life, she allowed a man to kiss her.
How could a kiss make her feel weak.
She was still shocked when Franz came back with a tray
of food.
“I have meds for aftershock.” He was aiming to kiss her
again but she suddenly stood up.
“Well, this is an aftershock question. Why did you do
that?”
“I’ve always wanted to kiss you. I’ve been trying to resist
the urge. Not until lately. We were not able to be home sooner
because we had a flat. And I’m angry to myself because you
weren’t there when I arrived. Then you’re here, not minding if
you were picked up or not.”
“I now understand what you meant to say about Rigo’s
girlfriend.”
“So?”
“I know that you---want to kiss me again.”
“Certainly.”
“And again…and again…”
“Of course.”
She raised her head up and seriously spoke. “Please spare
me. I don’t want this to end.”
 “Who says this would end?”
“Come on, Franz! You said it earlier that if a relationship
ends between you and the other girls, no hard feelings.”
“I wasn’t talking about you.”
“What difference does it make?”
“I like kissing you.”
“You can’t kiss me forever. You’ll get tired.
He smiled looking at her lips as if remembering what
happened moments ago. “I don’t think so. I like the taste of you.
It’s sweet.”
“Just as you like the taste of the other girls…”
“That ended. While I have no intention of ending what
we haven’t even started yet.”
“What do you want?”
“You. You belong to me, sweetheart, to my heart.”
“Meaning?”
“Be my girl.”
“What would he say---Don Manuel?”
“Nothing. And no matter what he says, I’ll decide when
it comes to this.” He pointed his chest.
“You don’t know me that much, Franz. I’m not rich like
you. I won’t fit in.”
“I find it passed, Joanna. Outdated in other words. And I
know you. I just can’t remember the exact date but I can tell you
how. You were in your first semester in college and Rigo
approached you. He was trying to flirt with you then. I’m glad
you were not charmed by the handsome face. I’ve been watching
you since then. I was just being a coward and didn’t approach
you.”
“You were snobbish to me. You even annoyed me. Once
I paid for your meal in the canteen and when the cashier told you
that you were paid and pointed me out, you gave me that ‘who
are you’ look and insisted on paying. Then I found out, you were
like that to everybody and I forgave you. When you took your
mother’s place here more than a month ago, you just don’t know
much I treated my friends out and they didn’t know the reason.”
He explained.
Her heart was over joyed upon hearing those from Franz.
“Won’t you say anything?” Franz said when she was still
in shock.
She shook her head. “Let’s just…kiss again…”
Franz smiled. He hugged her. “That was the most
beautiful thing you ever told me since I met you, Joanna
Samson.” He said and then kissed her. At that moment, it was
much more intense and deeper.
She was shocked when she felt his hands on her chest.
She tried to protest but Franz hugged her so tight. She gasped
aloud when his hand cupped her breast. She pushed him.
“F-Franz…”
“Sshh…” and whatever she wanted to say was locked in
her throat when he kissed her again. Those lips moved
downward and kissed her throat wetly, love-biting it, and down
to her breast.
 She covered her own lips to not scream. If it weren’t
because of that man and the table behind her, she would have
melted like water in the carpet. He grabbed her down the carpet.
Franz cupped her face. “Sweetheart, I want more than
kissing right now…” he said in a wild breathing and held her
bottom against his hardened body… “and I’d die if I won’t make
love with you right now,” he said raggedly and buried his face
in her hair.
“Oh, please…” she plead. Her eyes were scared and
worried. But Franz couldn’t help himself. “Don’t do this,
Franz…”
“I’ll be very gentle. I promise,” he whispered while
kissing her and removing all that’s left to cover her body. In no
time at all, she was naked.
Admiring eyes roamed over her slender body. Her
breasts, her waist, and of course, her long and shaped legs.
“You belong to me, Joanna. Body and soul,” he said
huskily, possessively. His eyes were wild with longing.
To cover her nakedness, he kneeled and started removing
his pants and T-shirt.
“That didn’t make you less sexy, sweetheart.” He
continued throwing his shirt in the chair. Then his pants and
brief. Then he carried her to the sofa.
He started kissing her again, his hands and mouth
strolling her body. Joanna was feeling a great sensation and fear.
Then he was holding her gently and firmly. But when he
nudged her thighs apart with his legs, Joanna screamed.
“F-Franz…” she said while shivering.
He glanced at her. Her eyes were wide in apprehension
or was it panic? For a moment Franz stiffened and came back to
his senses. He sat down the sofa and covered his face with his
palm.
“Damn…damn! I must be mad!”
She stood up. She did not know what to think in the
sudden change of mood. What did she do or say that made him
mad?
“W-What have I done?” she whispered. “Please, don’t be
angry. I---I’m sorry…”
“Sorry? Don’t say that. It was me who was like…” he
stood up and stared at the ceiling. Joanna was seventeen and has
no background about those things. And he was twenty-two, also
young but has experiences with girls. He’s losing his head when
it comes to Joanna.
His face was on his palm. His body still fully aroused and
Joanna could not help looking at it. Her curiosity took over and
shyly stared at it.
“Damn you, stop staring!” He was torn between
amusement and anger. He was amused by the innocent curiosity
and anger with himself.
“W-Why are you mad at me, Franz?”
“I’m not mad at you, Joanna. I’m mad at myself. Oh, how
I want you and I hope it’s obvious.”
“It…is.” She agreed making her blush gave his maleness
a fleeting glance. “and I’m--- scared…”
“I know. And I’m sorry for scaring you. It wasn’t my
intention. I want to make love with you, to make you mine. I lost
control, I lost my mind, and I’m mad! I should have left you
alone.”
“It’s my fault. I asked you to kiss me.”
“Damn you, Joanna! It wasn’t you fault. You knew
nothing and I seduced you.” he said in a strangled voice. “Now,
I am giving you five seconds to leave this room.” He gave her
the duster and the underwear. “You can go to your room like that
and nobody will see you. They’re all asleep.”
“Y-you?”
“I’ll stay here for a while.” He was trying so hard to
control the raging fire within him.
“And if I don’t leave?”
“You’ll be sorry.” It was a clear warning. “One thousand
one…one thousand two…one thousand three…”
“I’m staying.”
“You’re playing with fire.”
“You, too.” She said in a barest whisper.
And Franz was giving her a tight embrace and a crushing
kiss.
You belong to my heart, now and forever
It was noon when she woke up. She did not want to get
up but the maids will wonder. Her body was sore and tender. The
first time was like death but later on it became pleasure. And she
could not believe such ecstatic pleasure possible. So that was
sex.
Franz carried her to her room. “Don’t go…” she
whispered with her eyes closed.
He smiled tenderly. “I want to stay beside you,
sweetheart, but I’m afraid I won’t be able to wake up early and
the maids would see us here,” he said. He kissed her forehead
and covered her with blanket.
And now she is worried and pleased. Pleased because it
there’s someone she would share her body with, it would be
Franz. Worried because what if she becomes like the other girls
Franz told her? Here today and gone tomorrow.
When she went down the dining room, Don Manuel was
there and Franz already left for school. For the second time
around, she met Cristy. She was tall and pretty. She was like a
super model.
“Does your caregiver always wake up late, Papa?”
“Joanna studies at night, Cristy.” The old man answered.
“You take a seat, Joanna. What time did you sleep last night?
Seling said you did not eat you dinner and you left the tray in the
library with your things.”
She bowed her head to not show her blushing. She was
feeling guilt. Before she could even answer, Don Manuel spoke.
“You get enough sleep at night, Joanna. You can do your
term papers in the afternoon while I’m sleeping.”
She nodded.
“I thought you said Joanna would stay here just for a
while, Papa.” Cristy continued. “You said you’ll get a real
nurse.”
 “I am comfortable with Joanna, Cristy. She does “Well, you should be. I’m about to beg near Quiapo.
everything I need. Besides, I really enjoyed being with her. Why, Papa won’t raise my allowance and give it to me in advance.”
the last time I laughed was years ago. But this young woman She pouted.
here really is a joy to be with.”
“I’ll try to convince him but don’t raise hope, dear sister,
Cristy changed the topic. “The reason why I’m here Papa you know Papa when it comes to money.”
is to ask for my allowance for the next two months.”
She frowned. “I know. But he’s too generous when it
“And for what reason? You’ve taken a lot from your comes to charity. Like what he does to Joanna. He sends her to
allowance, Cristy.” school, right? And even gave her the little room upstairs.”
“Well, you know the standards of life in Manila, Papa.” “I thought we’re not talking about her?”
The old man did not react. He continued eating. “I’m just jealous,” she hugged Franz. “I missed you,
Franz! Why don’t you just move in Manila?”
Later, at night, Franz and Cristy talked.
“I can’t leave Papa, Cristy. He’s sick. Besides, once in a
“Why don’t you kick Joanna out of here, Franz?” while I’m in the company on his behalf.”
“Why should I? Papa likes her so much!” Cristy silenced. Not sure it she would believe her
“Come on, big brother. We know she’s just pretending stepbrother or not. When she came, she noticed he was always
to be nice and kind. You’ve paid a lot of gold diggers to stay looking for Joanna.
away from Papa since Mama died. May it be young or old, with
experience or none?
“We’ll, you’re wrong about Joanna, Cristy. And I won’t
just kick her out of this house because she takes care of Papa and
that’s why she’s able to enroll in school.”
“So, you see, she’s after Papa’s wealth. She’s taking
advantage of his generosity.”
“Let’s not talk about that. How’s your studies in Manila?
I’m constantly worried about you.”
 CHAPTER FIVE
It was Saturday afternoon, when Joanna walked in the
field of the campus. She was about to go home after their
practice game.
“Isn’t that Franz?” said Agnes, their captain ball who has
a crush on him.
It was Franz. She could feel the butterflies in her
stomach. What is he doing here when he was supposed to be
with Cristy?
“Are you his girlfriend, Joanna?” Disappointment was
on her voice.
“If he is, it would be a pleasure.” She answered.
“You have a point. You’re not the typical girl for him,”
she agreed. “Oh, you’re beautiful, Jo, don’t get me wrong. But
you know, men like Franz and dela Serna. Besides, we think
you’re a man-hater.”
She did not answer because Franz was only few steps
away from them.
“Hi, girls,” he greeted, giving the girls a sexy smile.
“Hello, Franz.” Replied Agnes. So devastatingly
handsome in his blue jeans and black jacket.
“Is your practice done?” They both nodded.
“Good. I have something to tell you, Jo,” he said. Agnes
didn’t react and left them.
“Let’s go over there.” He assisted Joanna to the other
side of the campus.
“W-what is it that you want to say?” Joanna asked
nervously. They were at the back side of the campus and she was
afraid if they would be seen by someone.
Franz hugged her. “I missed you, sweetheart.”
“F-Franz…somebody would see us here…”
“The hell I care,” then he kissed her cheek. “Hmmm…so
sweet.”
She let go. “Please don’t treat me like
those…those…those girls.”
He frowned. “What do you mean by that?”
“You know what I mean.”
He turned his back to her. “I didn’t miss those ‘girls’ you
were talking about, Joanna. I didn’t long for their lips unlike
what I’m feeling for you. I did not find reasons just to be with
them like when I left Cristy in the town just to be with you.”
“T-thank…you,” she said softly. Franz faced her.
“Thank you? Is that all you want to say?”
“W-what do you want me to say?”
“Damn you, Joanna!” he was irritated. “Don’t you feel
the way I feel?”
“O-of course I do…”
“Good to know that,” he sarcastically said. “I’m getting
annoyed, don’t you know that?” the girl did not answer. “At
home, you try to avoid me. You don’t even want to look at me
like I do not even exist. Yesterday you left when I was here to
pick you up on time. I think you were cutting class, just to avoid
me.”
“Tell me what you want me to do, Franz.”
He was about to get angry when he realized he was the
first man to have attachment to Joanna. In more ways than one,
she does not know how to handle a relationship.
“Are you ashamed to have relationship with me?”
“Do we have a relationship, Franz?”
He closed his eyes. “Stop answering me with question!”
she was familiar of him being temperamental. He sighed to
Joanna. He continued. “Joanna, you don’t go to bed with a man
and afterwards asks if you two are in a relationship.”
“Meaning, the usual double standards. You can go to bed
with those girls and denied relationship,” she logically said.
Joanna is innocent when it comes to boys but she’s intelligent.
“I am asking you because I want to know where I stand.”
“I already told you in the library that night and I will
repeat it. You belong to me, Joanna. You will always belong to
me ever and ever. Isn’t that confession enough?”
She relaxed and smiled. “Aren’t you being possessive?”
“I am possessive!” he said. “Especially when it comes to
you.”
She smiled showing her dimples. “Let’s go before your
Papa thinks of something bad if I exceed the time I asked him to
practice.” She said and Franz followed.
“Jo…”
“Hmmm…”
“Did you know that…I love you?”
She inhaled softly and continued walking. “Yes.”
He frowned. “How?”
“You just said it, right?”
“And.” He said while coping up with her.
“And what?”
“Joanna!” he warned her. She stopped walking and
turned back to him. Her eyes skimmed his face.
“All my life, Franz, nobody told me they loved me aside
from you, now. Of course, my suitors tell me different things,”
she said softly. “And I have never experienced being loved by
anyone, not even my adoptive parent. That’s why I don’t know
what to say. But I only felt this to you not to any other man. Even
before that wonderful night. I have already cherished you in my
heart and I will cherish no one else but you. Only you, ever and
ever.”
Franz held her hand and kissed her one after another.
“That answer is more than enough, sweetheart.” And he silently
cursed the woman who raised this sweet girl.
It was Monday and Joanna woke up earlier than usual.
Today Cristy would be going back to Manila. She wanted to help
the two maids to prepare breakfast.
She fixed herself. She knew Don Manuel was still asleep
at the moment. And so does Franz.
 Nobody wakes at 6 o’clock in the morning in that house
except her and the maids.
She stopped from moving downwards when she heard
the loud voice of Cristy while talking to Don Manuel. His room
was open and he’s awake, which is very unusual.
Are they fighting? She hurriedly took a peep to know
what was happening. It was not advisable for Don Manuel to get
angry.
“Why did you have to steal those jewelries, Cristy?” he
was so angry at her. He caught Cristy opening one drawer
thinking that he was still sleeping. One emerald necklace and
earring were on her hands when he woke up.
“Because you won’t give me money, Papa!” she
screamed.
“You always demand for money, Cristy and that’s not a
joke! I don’t know where you are using all the money I gave you.
You don’t refrain from spending now, you resorted to stealing!”
he screamed out from anger. Joanna didn’t know what to do.
“Mama owns these so these are mine now and I have the
right for these1” she shouted.
He was so angry. “You have no right for that! Those
were not owned by Lorenza! That…was heirloom and from the
ancestors of Franz’s mother. I won’t let you get that. I assure
you.” Cristy thought that if Franz finds out, those would be
useless.
Joanna came in so afraid when she saw Don Manuel
gasping for air. He was so pale.
“Don Manuel…”
“Get…my meds…Joanna.” He said while holding his
chest.
Cristy took it first.
“I won’t give you this unless you say these jewels are
mine, Papa. Or else give me the money I demanded you with.”
She determinately said.
“CRISTY!” Joanna screamed. She could not believe she
would do that to Don Manuel. “Give that to Don Manuel. Can’t
you see he’s catching his breath?”
“NO!. Tell me, Papa. Tell me these are mine!”
She hurriedly snatched the meds out of Cristy’s hand and
took water from the table but she heard Don Manuel moaned and
fell on his bed.
“Papa!” Cristy screamed loudly.
“D-Don Manuel!”
Franz was still tying his robe when he got inside the
room. “What happened?” he saw his father on the bed. He ran to
his father but he was already dead.
Cristy was so scared. Joanna froze while holding the
meds.
“What happened?” He asked the two girls.
“That girl!” Cristy pointed her out. “Papa caught her
stealing his jewels.” She was shaking when she opened her hand
with the emerald. “I saw Papa so angry. I took this from her…but
when she saw Papa gasped for air…she took his medicines. She
would only give it to him if he says the jewels are hers. I tried to
take the medicine from her but…but…Papa fell.” She then
sobbed after the lie.
Joanna was shocked and stared at the girl. She could not
believe she could do that stupid lie. And she was still holding the
medicine in her hands. She could see anger in his eyes that wants
to kill her.
“Why?” his voice accusing.
“I…didn’t…” she wanted to say Cristy was lying but at
that moment Don Manuel’s words came to her mind. Franz
loved Cristy, Joanna like a real sister. Cristy is doing all the
good for Franz…there were times I wanted to tell my son but I
don’t want him to get hurt.
And she could barely hurt Franz at that moment. Besides,
will he believe her? Who will he trust? Cristy whom he trusted
for so many years? Of her who was a total stranger to him before.
Aside from that, the evidence was in her hands, the bottle of
medicine.
When nothing came out her mouth, Franz turned to her.
“You shameless…!” he screamed raising his hand
wanting to hurt her. She closed her eyes and waited for the slap
in her face.
But it never came. When she opened her eyes, she could
only one thing in his eyes. Anger. His face hardened in hatred
and was holding his fist trying to control the urge to hurt her.
“Cristy was right about you! Get out of this house before
I kill you!” Joanna’s body shaken in fear of Franz.
Yes she did not speak. But isn’t the right thing to do is to
ask her if it’s true?
She could believe she was easily fooled by Cristy. And
maybe if she defended herself and told the truth, he would still
not believe her.
Joanna did not know how she got out of the house. When
the old man was buried, she was there but from a distance. They
were on their way home when Franz saw her and the hatred in
his face was still obvious.
Two days after the burial, an Atty. Mijares was called to
the office. He was shocked when he saw Franz there.
“Sit down, Miss Samson,” he said. She took a seat
waiting for what the lawyer would say when Franz stood up and
walked through the door, gazed at her.
“If only Papa knew you would kill him, he wouldn’t have
done what he did.” He said then finally went out.
“Don Manuel left you, Miss Samson, a hundred thousand
pesos according to his testament.”
Joanna was in awe. Because he loved her so dearly, she
would be hated by Franz even more and would think all she
wanted was Don Manuel’s money.
“And he added in his testament that when he dies, you
work here in the company as a secretary to whoever would
manage and be given proper trainings and privileges for your
studies,” the lawyer continued.
She could not help sobbing in front of the lawyer. The
only man he treated like a father was gone. And the other man
who she loved dearly is also gone.
One week after the burial, Cristy and Franz went to
Manila. And after a few months, they flew to the US. Joanna
tried healing her wounded heart. She buried the memories
between them and focused on her studies.
She has no intention of being an employee in the
Ramirez Company. But her attention was called one day by the
vice president and said his secretary resigned. And Don
Manuel’s testament states that she should work in the company.
Two years have passed since Don Manuel died and she
has no idea what happened to Franz. And she needed work.
During that time, San Ignacio was still not an industrial area. She
accepted the job.
She did not notice the tears falling on her cheeks because
of those memories. And now, after seven years, Franz came back
to her life. Married and has a daughter.
“You belong to me sweetheart, to my heart.”
Most of all, he still hates her. He could not forget. And
she will be working with him closely. And she thought she was
already over him.
CHAPTER SIX
It was Monday morning and she hurriedly went to the
fourth floor. She already saw his car in the parking space that
was once for Mr. Gabriel.
“W-what happened?” Joanna asked out of wonder.
“The janitor said Mr. Ramirez demanded for that cubicle,
Joanna,” Vivian, a clerk who’s table was three steps away from
her before. “Sir wants his secretary to have a small private room
near him.”
“But…”she wondered. If you look at the other angle, it
is something to be proud of. To have a private room next to the
boss. But why does she feel Franz’s intention was not that? The
party was on Friday night and it was declared there would be no
work the next day except for the garments department. And
within two days, Franz was able to come up with this cubicle.
“What’s with that face, JO?” Vivian asked. “Shouldn’t
you be happy? That is something of a promotion.”
“Are you sure I’ll be sitting there with Fr…Mr. Ramirez
in that cubicle?”
“Of course. And he has been waiting for you.”
Her eyes widen. “H-he’s already here?” Vivian nodded.
She couldn’t believe it. It was still 8:45 and Mr. Gabriel usually
arrives at 9:30. She was not comfortable upon entering the
cubicle.
 She strolled her eyes over the room. She suddenly felt
claustrophobic. She does not see it an office but a prison. The
door opened and there was Franz. “Do you really come to work
this late? It’s 9 o’clock already!”
She controlled her gasp. The man is outrageously
handsome and very male. Just like before when almost all the
girls in St. Ignatius were into him. When he left for America,
Rigo took all the fame. Though it didn’t also last because he left
San Ignacio six months after Franz left because of the scandal
Lacey’s father created.
Well, there are many men in St. Ignatius but to her, only
Franz is the fairest. The only difference is, Franz now is not the
young and happy man she used to know. Taller and bigger and
handsomer and looked older than his actual age of twenty-nine.
If only he would smile.
“Good morning, Mr. Ramirez.” She replied.
“What time are you supposed to be on duty?” he said.
“Nine o’clock. I arrived fifteen minutes before that. I’m
sorry if you got here first. I never thought you’d come this early.
Do you need something?” where she took composure, she didn’t
know. But she’d die than letting him know her knees were
shaking.
“From now on, Miss Samson, I want you to come at eight
thirty and leave the office thirty minutes after five,” he continued
in an angry tone. “I just knew the office closes at five in the
afternoon. And you are working for seven hours in that case. I
will not allow it. I won’t let you take advantage of the company
like you did to Papa!”
She felt knives in her heart and felt the pain inside. But
she remained controlled and emotionless.
“If that’s what you want.”
“That’s not because I want it, damn you! That should be
done! You’re an employee here and you should act as one not
like you’re the owner of the company.”
She did not answer to not make the conversation too
long. She bowed her head and removed the cover of the
typewriter which was full of dust because of the carpentry.
“Last Friday you were pretty and you wore and
expensive dress,” he continued with a new topic. “I’m not
surprised. With the money my father had left you.”
“I’m glad you liked it.” She smiled a little.
“Oh, yes. That was your intention, right? To make sure
you look seductive to me just like before? So don’t give me that
innocent act, Joanna. You can’t fool me again just like what you
did to Papa.”\
“Of course. You’re older and wiser now.”
Franz frowned because she was so calm. “How many
men have you fooled after Papa, Joanna? How many paralyzed
men have you took advantage to? There’s not much like Papa
here in San Ignacio.”
“Your father is one in a million and whatever you think
about me, I loved Don Manuel.” She said softly.
“Bullshit!”
 She looked at him. “This is our first day together, Franz.
If we would be like this every time we meet, I think I should
tender my resignation now.”
“You will not resign, Joanna. I won’t let you. You will
work here. You will repay the company with your service. And
don’t you dare do something bad and I will kick you out and I
will make sure you won’t find another job.”
She bitterly smiled. “The moment I came in I smell
danger. I know why I am cubicle. To not let the other employees
hear and see all the insults you’re throwing me every day.”
“You deserved it!” he screamed.
“You think so.”
“That’s not what I think. That’s what you did. Cristy saw
you when you did that to Papa.
“Of course. Your nice sweet little sister saw me,” she
smiled mocking.
Franz frowned with her tone. “Stop using that tone with
my sister. She was so magnanimous and she forgave you!”
She raised her brow. “Why, give my thanks to her,
Franz.” She continued.
Franz stared at her. “What do you mean by that?”
She did not react. “Nothing, Franz. My time is moving
and the company might be bankrupt if I do not start my work.”
“Bitch!”
She took her lunch within 30 minutes because Franz did
not go home for lunch to study the income of the company with
the accountant and two managers. When she came back, he
called her for some dictation.
“Are you sure you could write everything I am about to
say? You look unreliable.”
He can insult her about what happened seven years ago
but she could not let her abilities be underestimated.
“Mr. Gabriel would have told you about my…”
“I don’t care about Mr. Gabriel!” he snapped. “What do
I know if even that poor old man you were able to fool with your
innocent eyes.”
She counted one to ten to control her breathing. “Alright,
let’s start then, if I won’t be able to do my job, then you should
be glad. You will have the grounds to terminate my services.”
She took her steno notebook and ready herself.
He dictated the name of the new suppliers and customers
in a fast manner. After that was the letter for them which was
dictated without even breathing. If he thought she would stop to
ask, then he had to think again!
But Franz stopped a few moments later. “Am I too fast
for you?” he teased her with a respectful tone.\
She smiled bitterly. “Don’t worry, I have always been
aspiring to break a record in speed writing.”
She wanted to think it was a smile he was showing in his
eyes. But she realized it was just her imagination. But the next
dictation were in normal manner and she was able to breathe
freely.
The first day with Franz was through without noticing it.
She was so tired when she arrived home. And she didn’t mind
all the insults because that was what he thinks she is even if it
hurts her inside.
The next morning, all the files were collected by her and
she spent half the day win those. She was glad for a break
because she has now his attention.
It’s almost five and she was currently in his front trying
to give a file when the door opened and Vida came in with her
nanny.
“Hi, Daddy…”
“Hello, sweetheart.” Franz turned to her upon saying the
last word. He carried his daughter to his chair. “How have you
been?”
“Fine, Daddy. I asked nanny to swim with me but she
refused.” She looked at Joanna. “Who is she?”
“Her name is Joanna, my secretary,” he formally
answered while looking at her.
Joanna smiled at Vida. Vida smiled to her in return.
“Hello. I saw you at the party. I thought you were just beautiful
because you had make-up…”
“Vida…”
“But you’re still pretty and you have no make-up unlike
Tita Cristy.” She could not help but to be awkward with the child
with what she was saying.
“Thank you, Vida.”
“Oh, you know my name! But not all. My full name is
Freya Vida Ramirez. You know what it means?”
She frowned. “Freya sounds like f-r-i-a and that is cold
in Spanish and vida is life. Meaning cold life,” Joanna looked at
Franz and seemed like asking why she was named after that.
The child giggled. “You’re right. Daddy said his life with
mom is so cold that…”
“Vida…” he hurriedly covered his daughter’s mouth and
her smile disappeared. She was about to cry. “Don’t you dare
cry!”
“Then you shouldn’t have shouted at your daughter,”
Joanna said. Then looked at the girl tenderly. “Don’t mind you
Daddy, Vida. He’s angry even before you arrived. He’s mad at
me that’s why he shouted.”
“I know. Tita Cristy said so,” answered the child and got
out of her father’s arms and went to her. “But I like you. You’re
pretty and sweet and you’re not scared of my Daddy because you
reprimanded him when he shouted at me. You are now my
friend.” The child said upon looking at her.
She was confused. She was not sure if she did the right
thing. She is in trouble.
“Lina, bring Vida and wait for me.” He commanded the
nanny who was just standing at the door. The nanny carried Vida
out even if she wanted to stay.
When they got outside, Joanna was about to follow when
she heard Franz.
“You really get the sympathy from people that easy,
Joanna!” His voice was like thunder to her ears. “If I allow you
to go near my daughter I’m sure one week is too long for you to
turn her away from me.”
 “I’m sorry. I should have not interrupted.” Her voice was
apologetic. “I just didn’t want you shouting at her. She’s so small
and fragile.”
“What do have to deal with me and my daughter?”
She took a deep breath. “Angelina wasn’t my real
mother. She was so cold and distant but I could not remember a
thing she shouted at me when I was little.” Bitterness rose in her
chest when she recalled her past. She then turned back for Franz
not to be able to read her emotions.
He did not need to ask to know what she meant. They
were back to that again. And seven years had passed since that
happened.
“Whatever I say, you already have the answers, right,
Franz?” she said bitterly.
“Did you know I want you to rot in jail that moment?”
she looked at him.
“Would you really want me behind bars?” she would not
want to believe in that.
“I thought so. But Cristy talked me out of it.”
“I see. I don’t doubt that.” She said sarcastically. After
what they shared together, he was willing to send her behind bars
without hearing her side. But he didn’t because of Cristy.
Franz frowned with her sarcasm. “Cristy isn’t really what
some people thought. She grieved for Papa’s death and she did
not let me send you to jail because she pity you. You just did that
because you grew up poor.”
Because of that, she laughed out loud. A bitter and
hysterical laugh.
“Stop it, Joanna!” He was shaking her that she stopped
laughing.
“And, of course, you believed her,” she said giving him
a mocking smile.
“Do you want to deny that to me that now?” he angrily
said.
She shook her head. “What’s the point?”
She turned back to go outside but he aggressively
grabbed her locking her in his arms.
Their eyes met. They were full of weariness and
awareness of being in his arms. From Franz was anger and
everything she witnessed once, seven years ago, in the library.
The time and place didn’t matter that moment. He kissed
her and accepted that without resistance. She even returned his
kisses with so much longing and tenderness that her throat
ached. Only to be thrust forward and she was leaned on the door
where she hit her back by the doorknob. She closed her eyes
because of the pain.
She was shocked by the cruelty. “I could kill you, you
know!” he said between pain and anger. “For how many years I
have not forgotten what you did to Papa. And I hated myself for
still desiring you after all this time!”
She didn’t know if she would cry or be happy with what
she heard. He desired her as she desired him. And she wanted to
think that he does not really hate her. But she does not want to
entertain herself with that. She could see and feel the hatred.
He hated her and the same time lusted her. And she’s
crazy for trying to be with him. She might have not forgotten
him in seven years but Franz is married. She’s not that immoral CHAPTER SEVEN
to give herself to a married man. Giving herself to him without
the sanctity of marriage is already a sin. Good thing it didn’t
bring a cause to that. If it did, her child would be like her. The
only difference is that she will not leave her child in the hospital.
When she got out the building, Arnel was there to pick
her up.
“Get in and I’ll get you home.”
She did not hesitate and rode the car.
In the fourth floor, if she looked up, she would have seen
Franz looking at them.
“How’s your new boss?”
“There’s not a single problem. And I’ve been expecting
he would strive at first.” She said.
“Franz is different from before, Jo. I don’t know if that’s
only my imagination. Serious and distant.”
“I can’t feel anything. Franz was always like that. He was
not like Rigo who always smiles and is friendly.” And definitely
unlike Rigo who easily forgives. Rigo was bitter when he
thought Lacey betrayed him but he was never angry.
Oh, well, her situation is different from Lacey. Rigo
loved her even from the start. Really loved her. What with her
and Franz was a one night madness of passion and lust. And she
gave that romantic meaning to it. Franz told her he loved her
maybe because to have license to take advantage of her.
Franz said passe which means rich-poor relationship.
But it was wrong. If she was only rich, she would not have been
accused of Don Manuel’s death. Franz would never believe she
did that for the money.
“You looked tired,” sympathized Arnel. “Let’s have an
early dinner in town so that you won’t bother cooking when you
get home.”
She smiled at him. “Thank you, Arnel.”
Arnel brought her to the famous eatery in town. They
started eating when Arnel mentioned again about his proposal.
“Marry me, Joanna. We’re both on the legal age now.
You’re twenty-four and I’m twenty-eight. I’ve got a stable job
and the salary as a personnel manager in the textile company
could support us.”
“I don’t love you, Arnel.”
“Love can be developed, Jo. I promise to be a good
husband to you.”
She wanted to cry. Arnel is such a nice man and any girl
who marries him would not regret.
“I’ll think about it tonight, Arnel,” she promised. The
guy smile endlessly. After eating, he then sent her home.
“Good night and thank you,” she said while she was
stepping outside the car. But Arnel grabbed her and held her in
her arms. She knew he would kiss her but she didn’t protest.
She was emotionally distressed and let him kiss her.
Closed her eyes and concentrate on the kiss. She really wanted
to love this man.
Arnel let go of her after a few moment. His eyes were
sparkling. “That was the first time you let me kiss you. I want
you to know how happy I am right now, Jo.”
Wearily, she nodded. “You’ll know my decision. I’ll call
you tomorrow.”
She waited for the guy to leave before walking through
the gate. She took her keys which she almost dropped when
somebody spoke.
“Did his kiss tasted well than mine?”
“Franz!”
“Do you really allow every man you meet to kiss you?”
he angrily asked. Was he there longer than she thought? Why
didn’t she notice his car parked?
“I did not allow you to kiss me. You kissed me!” she said
calmly. She was shaking when she was trying to get the gate
unlocked.
“Let me do that!” he grabbed the keys from her hand and
he pushed the gate to let her in.
“What are you?”
Franz looked for the switch of the light. “I’ve been here
since lately. Where did you go with Arnel?”
“Why do you care? I’m single and so is Arnel. I could go
with him wherever and whenever I want.”
“Damn you, Joanna! What if I don’t want you to be with
other men? If you were married when I came back I shouldn’t
have bothered you and I’ll make sure you will be kicked from
my company. But you’re single and you’re mine like what I’ve
said to you before. You belong to me!”
She was angry and confused. “And---you said you hated
me!”
“I still do. I hate you for what you have done to my
father, for being a slut and a gold digger. But it won’t stop me
from wanting you and desiring your delicious body!”
“But…but…you’re married!” “Does it matter? I want
you…” he said while staring at her body. She sat down the sofa.
Silence came between them. Franz looked at the whole
house. His eyebrows met. This is the same house Angelina and
Joanna lived before. Nothing changed.
Old wooden sofa. A small black and white television and
in the corner was a not so old electric fan. And the dining-kitchen
room was there in the old formica which is for two.
The old ref was in the corner. The only new to his eyes
was the radio-cassette recorder on top of the ref with tapes in a
wooden stand.
He did not utter a single word when he went through a
closed door before Joanna could even speak. But she was too
stunned to speak. He opened the door and saw a good for one
bed. At least that was a little new and has a foam. He then shut
the door.
“What did you do the money my father had left you?” he
asked.
“The hell you care!”
“You didn’t use it your studies because you were a
scholar. And you didn’t spend it to anything because everything
is old here aside from your bed and your closet which is
obviously not expensive.” If it was an insult, she wasn’t sure.
She raised her hands. “I beg you, Franz, leave me alone.”
She plead the man. “I can’t be like this. My mind and heart are
confused. I’m tired and I’m weary.”
“You deserved all these kind of treatment from me!”
“Whatever you want to think, I don’t care. Now, please,
I want to end this. Effective tomorrow, I’ll be resigning. And
don’t you dare threaten me to not getting any other jobs because
I won’t be working anymore. I’m marrying Arnel…” how she
wished he was her to give her the support she needed right mow.
His facial muscles moved. “The hell you will!”
“You can’t dictate me what I want my life to be. I have
had enough of what I can take from you. It’s been just days since
we met again and you’re draining all my strength!”
“Did you tell Arnel that I was the first one to taste your
body?”
“Damn you, Franz!”
“I will tell him myself, Joanna. And more!” “You can’t
be that bastard!”
“You made me like this…” he bitterly said.
“Oh, Franz…” and for the first time since they met she
cried. She didn’t want to cry but she could not her tears from
falling. She was sobbing hysterically.
Franz aggressively hugged her and placed her face in his
chest.
 “Damnit, sweetheart, don’t cry!” he said. But the tender
stroke of his harms on her back belied the harshness of his voice.
For a while, Joanna let herself in his arms one last time.
She shed all the tears that never poured not even once since the
last seven years.
“Joanna…Joanna,” Franz said. In anger, in agony, in
frustration.
Joanna calmed herself. She wiped her tears.
“I’m sorry. I made you polo shirt wet.” She calmly said.
“You accept my resignation tomorrow, Franz…” she said in a
cold and composed voice.
“Do what you want, Joanna. Just don’t marry other men.
You will only marry another man over my dead body,” he said
in a calm anger.
“Whatever you do against me, I cannot allow myself to
be your mistress, Franz Ramirez,” determinately she said and ran
to her room and locked the door.
Rigo and Lacey were on their family room when Franz
came.
“What brought you here in this ungodly hour, friend?”
asked Rigo while looking at the clock. It’s already 11 o’clock in
the evening.
“Hello, Lacey.” He smile to her. “Isn’t it not healthy for
you to sleep late now that you’re pregnant?”
“Just for tonight, Franz. Please take a seat. Is the matter
confidential?”
He shook his head. “No. Please stay.”
“You look like hell, man. Is there any problem?”
Franz leaned on the lounge and took a deep breath.
“Joanna made my whole life a living hell, if that’s what you want
to know.”
The couple looked at each other. Lacey stood up. “I’ll get
you both a drink.”
Franz was still not there when Joanna arrived at the
office. She typed her resignation letter, placed it in an envelope
and put it in his office.
“I want to talk to you,” he said.
She sighed. “You want to talk to me, or you want to insult
me?”
“Damnit, Joanna. Get in my office and let’s talk.”
“You really don’t want to start a day without degrading
and insulting me, do you?” she sarcastically answered. “You
developed sadism in the States, Franz,” she bitterly said.
“Follow me.”
“My resignation is on your table,” she added. She took a
deep breath. Another day with him could kill her. Her
resignation was effective at the closing of office hours,
irrevocable.
She was about to stand when she saw Cristy at the door.
“Hi,” she greeted.
She gritted her teeth. If only a deadly stare could kill,
Cristy would have been dead.
 “No matter what you think of me, Joanna,” she raised her
eyebrow. “I want to thank you for not telling Franz the truth.”
“I’ve been trying to tell him.”
“Oh, he won’t believe you,” she made sure of that. “I
doubt if he would believe you seven years ago if you tried to
explain that time. Not after all these years. It will only appear
how bitchy you are.”
It was also what she thought. She did not need to make
that clear to herself after she ruined his image to Franz.
She was about to speak when the door suddenly opened.
“Joana, get in…Cristy…”
“Hello, Franz,” she smile greeting him. “You left early,
I was still sleeping. I’m leaving for Manila this afternoon and I
have something to tell you.”
He looked at Joanna. “Come inside, Joanna.”
“Later, Franz. Talk to me first,” Cristy insisted
“Whatever you will say is nonsense even if Joanna hears
that.” He gave her a last warning look. Joanna stood up and went
inside. Cristy then followed.
He was sitting in his swivel chair and in front of him was
her resignation letter which was not yet opened but was torn
apart.
“I can type another one,” she said emotionless.
“You can type a hundred for all I care. They won’t be
read and I won’t accept.”
“Please, Franz,” plead Cristy. “Whatever it is you are
arguing about I need the money in going back to Manila. It’s my
birthday next week and I need to buy clothes now!”
“You have a lot of clothes, Cristy! Almost all of those
were worn once only. Most of them were bought in the States.”
He concealed his anger.
Her eyebrows met. “What’s wrong with you, Franz? You
don’t really object with what I want to buy!”
“Not until now. Money is tight at this point of time.”
She wrinkled her eyes and nose. “May I remind you,
Franz that the money I’m asking you is mine! It was given to me
by Papa. And next week I’ll be twenty-five and I’ll be managing
my own money!” she raised her face for emphasis.
“Have you forgotten the conditions in the testament?
You will only have your share if you have proven you can
manage it well. And I’m glad at this point Mr. Gabriel is sick.”
Her eyes widen. “What do you mean? There’s no reason
the money can’t be mine, Franz?”
“Really?” she looked at Joanna who stayed and listened
to their conversation. “Repeat what I said to her, Joanna.” He
said which shocked Cristy.
Repeat what I said?
She looked at Joanna. “You told Franz!” she accused.
Joanna remained senseless and was confused. “You, bitch!”
“Calm down, Cristy,” Franz caught her in his dangerous
tone. “Perhaps now you know you can get nothing from Papa’s
wealth.”
 “And you believed that slut, Franz? I’m your sister! Over
me who has been with your whole life?” she punched her chest
for emphasis.
“Get out, Cristy!” he calmly said. She saw the pain and
bitterness in his eyes. And she was hurt by that. She doesn’t want
to ruin his relationship to his sister. From whom did he find out
the truth?
“You, animal!” Cristy tried to attack Joanna but Franz
was able to hold her.
“Don’t worsen your situation, Cristy. You won’t be
happy with what I’m capable of doing.”
“I did not mean it, Franz! I never meant for Papa to die.
He was strong.” She screamed. “I know you were falling for that
girl slowly and I had to do something about it. And I saw that
chance for you to hate her!”
“Get out, Cristy!” he commanded dangerously.
“Temporarily I have not yet decided with what I am going to do
with you. Stay out of my sight!” Joanna wanted to feel sorry for
Cristy but she was mad at her. Franz took her out the room and
locked it.
“H-how…did you know?” she asked out of curiosity?
He raised his face. She felt he became older. The pain,
regret and bitterness, all visible in his eyes.
“I know nothing, Joanna. Now start telling me.”
CHAPTER EIGHT
Joanna’s eyes widen in shock. “W-what do you mean
you know nothing?”
“I have no idea how Papa died.” He said wearily. “I want
you to tell me exactly what happened.”
“B-but I--- thought…”
“I was bluffing. Cristy bit the trap.”
“Oh!” she could not believe that was that easy? And to
think he’s been driven by that for seven long years.
“I started to wonder why every time you mentioned her
name, you are so sarcastic.” Franz started. “And what confused
me a lot was when you were so confident in approaching to me
and her. A guilty person could not do what you have done.
Except those, of course, who are into lying. But you’re not like
that, Joanna. Mr. Gabriel vouched for you. Rigo is your friend
who until now is very choosy when it comes to having friends.
Not to mention Arnel. He has his own motives. Rigo spoke
highly for you, cared for you, so with Lacey. And last night,
when I came into your house, I saw nothing but purity.”
“Oh,” she sobbed in pained voice upon hearing the words
from Franz who seemed to be more hurt when he found out she
was innocent.
“Last night, when I left, I went to Papa’s lawyer. He lived
in the other town but I came to see him. He said you did not
accept the money Papa left for you.” she looked at her while she
was crying.
 “He put it the trust of your name. You didn’t know
because you never opened his communication sent to you. You
returned it unopened.”
Franz stood up.
“What happened that day, Joanna?” he again asked.
“Please…” he pleaded. She sobbed and slowly told him what
happened. She could not understand the emotions in his face.
Anger, bitterness and all.
And the truth became the wall between them.
“Why didn’t you tell me the truth?” he asked after a few
moments. “Why didn’t you defend yourself that day instead I
believed you were the reason Papa died.”
“Would you believe me if I said that?” she could not help
to add sarcasm in her tone.
“Maybe not that time. But I would have thought of that,
Joanna.” He protested. “But you never trusted me after what
we’ve shared.”
“I have trusted you with my love, my body, and my life,
Franz.” She bitterly answered. “But you never thought of that.
You only knew of accusing me forgetting what you just called
we’ve shared.
“I’ve known Cristy since she was six years old,” he said.
“How could you accuse your own family?”
“And you only knew me for almost two months. Poor
and nothing to be proud of.” She said. “Your father knew Cristy.
He said you refused to see through her. But when it came to me,”
she bitterly said. “Don’t blame yourself, Franz. If Don Manuel
could not ruin the illusion you have to Cristy, what gives me the
right to so.”
“But you broke me. My whole life through these years.
Didn’t you know that?”
“Don’t say that! You’ve gotten married and now you
have a beautiful daughter.” She stood up to walk out the room.
“This conversation is never ending, Franz. Let us stop blaming
each other. Anyway, this didn’t change anything in our lives. I’ll
type another resignation letter.”
“I want you, Joanna.” He said agonizingly.
“I know. I want you, too. Have wanted you all these
years.” She tried to choke a sob.
“Then come to me, sweetheart. Let’s forget about the
past. Let’s start over again.” He pleaded.
She sighed. She looked straight to Franz. Her eyes bitter
and weary. “I won’t be your mistress, Franz! I’m marrying
Arnel.”
“You don’t love him.” He screamed. “You love me and
you belong here in my arms and in my heart!”
“I would learn to love him. He’s a nice and wonderful
man. He had been patient since college. It would be unfair if I
ignore his proposal and choose the person who do not trust me
and is married over him.
“You still don’t trust me, Joanna,” he said in agony. “I
won’t force you with what I want and I want you to decide this
time. In the last seven years, my life was a wreck because of you.
for not trusting you.
 “If you come to me, Joanna, make sure you trust me
whole heartedly. I have wasted seven years of my life and I’m
still willing to wait for you. it would be a living hell marrying
someone you don’t love. I should know. And you don’t love
Arnel.” She turned back and went through the door. She
gradually closed the door.
She walked on the shore. She loved Franz and would still
love him through the years.
She didn’t know how far she has been walking til she
saw the mansion of the couple Rigo and Lacey. Her feet brought
her to the backdoor.
“Joanna!” Said Lacey while digging the plants.
“Hi. I just walked in the beach.” Her feet was full of sand.
Lacey laughed. “I used to walk in the beach whenever I
have problems.”
“So you’ve guessed I have a problem?”
“I don’t have to. It’s in your face. Just like Franz last
night.”
She was shocked. “He was here?”
Lacey nodded. “Agonizingly poured his mouth out.
Why, I was really amazed by those two men. That was the only
time I’ve proven they were very close to each other.”
“They were friends even before Rigo set eyes on you.
Franz weren’t here when you met Rigo.”
“We haven’t asked you this but I would like to ask you
now, are you really going to marry Arnel?”
“Do I have any reason why I shouldn’t?”
“Arnel is a good man and a good friend since I met him.
But not at this point. You don’t love him.”
“Does it matter? You just said Arnel was a good man. He
will make me happy.”
“Maybe. I’m not sure about that. And that is a gamble
you will be taking.”
“In a gamble, there’s a winner and a loser. The thought
that Arnel loves me and being a good man, I surely am a
winner.”
“I have nothing against him, Joanna. He is a wonderful
man. I am saying this because you are both my friends. He
deserved someone who would really love him. Imagine yourself
waking up every morning next to your pillow with someone
who’s like a stranger to you? Sharing meals with somebody you
don’t really want to be there to share with.”
“Are you saying my decision of marrying him is wrong?”
“Yes if you want my opinion. Because you want to
escape Franz you would use Arnel and that would be unfair
between you.”
She silenced before she finally said. “Franz is married.”
Lacey smiled. “I’ll tell you a secret which I’m not
supposed to say so please don’t tell Rigo. But damn those men I
cannot decide if they’re masochist or sadist. Franz is divorced
for four years now, Joanna.”
She was shocked. “T-that’s a…bad joke.”
 “He didn’t tell you that because he wanted to punish you
but he was so in love with you.”
“Did he tell you what happened seven years ago?”
“Just last night. And he was badly hurt, Joanna. All these
years he wanted to hate you.”
“Thanks for telling me, Lace. But I think I have to deal
with something more important.”
“Wishing you happiness, Joanna.”
“No. Let me finish. Why didn’t you tell me you were
divorced years ago? What was your reason? Are you worried
that if I knew you have no wife I would ask you to marry me
when you can have me without doing that?”
“Joanna, please…”
“Don’t please me, damn you! I hate you for coming back
to my life! Even if you’re the only man left in this world I would
still not marry you!” she saw a paper on the table. She grabbed
her and threw it to him.

“I doubt it.”
She probably have walked a mile when she saw the
Ramirez private beach. She was sure Franz was there.
“Hello, Aling Seling,” she greeted the old maid.
“Joanna?”
“Yes, it’s me. Is Franz there?”
“He arrived just now.”
“I’ll be going and talk to him.”
“Joanna!”
“Yes. It certainly is me.” She answered angrily. “For
seven long years, you were never gone here in my heart. No
other men was able to get in her except you and never in my life
I tried to swap you with somebody.” She was holding her chest.
“And to think you are a bastard! You may hold my love and life
but I’m marrying Arnel! I won’t let myself be one of your girls,
Franz Ramirez.”
“Joanna…”
 CHAPTER NINE
“Joanna!” he ran after her but she sped a bit more.
He caught her in the sea and hugged her from behind
which made them fell on the sand.
“Let me go! You have no right to hold me!” she
screamed but Franz was holding her so tight. He was hugging
her so tight. She was punching his chest and he didn’t bother to
answer. But she could feel his chest heaving. She stopped. She
looked at him?
Franz was looking at her misty eyes.
“D-did I hurt you?” she worriedly asked. She forgot her
anger.
“Hurt me if that would make you feel better, Joanna. It
won’t kill me. But I’d die if I lose you again now…”he said
brokenly.
She was about to speak when they noticed a pair of little
feet beside them.
“She’s angry, Dad. I saw her fighting you,” Vida said
while her hand were on her waist. “How can she be my mom if
she’s mad at you?”
“Mom?” she asked shockingly.
“Yes. Daddy said you’ll be my mom if you will have
him.”
She looked at Franz who was sitting in the sand.
“Well’ I won’t have him!”
“That’s sad cause Daddy love you.” the child faced her
dad. “I guess you have to do a lot of convincing, Daddy.” Then
she looked at Joanna. “I kind of like of, you know. And I also
want to be a flower girl. I have never been one unlike my friends
in the States.”
“F-flower girl?”
“Yes. In your wedding with Dad. Didn’t he tell you yet?”
she was still shocked. “Well, Dad will marry you. He told me at
lunch over the phone. Will you be my mom?”
She could not answer. Vida continued. “Please marry my
Dad. And please be my mom also. You know, I don’t have a
mom, never had one.” There was sadness in her voice.
“This is so unfair, Franz,” she said choking a sob.
“Go home, Vida,” he told his daughter. “She will be your
mommy, I promise you.”
“I want her promise,” she said to Joanna. “Will you
promise to marry my Daddy?”
“Franz, please…” she looked at him. He was looking at
her waiting for her answer. So with Vida. “Can I defer the
answer?”
“No!” the answered in chorus. “Oh…you can’t do this.
Why are you using your child after you have fooled me?”
“Marry me, Joanna” he proposed solemnly. “I have
never wanted you for a mistress. Never before not even now. I
never told you I was divorced not because of what you were
saying now. You have hurt me the first night we met when you
said you’d marry Arnel…
“That’s not what I said.”
“That was what it is to me! Did you know how much it
hurt me when you told me you will marry Arnel?”
Vida coughed to get attention.
“Well, I guess you could defer your promise.” She
stepped back to the house. She looked back and smiled at her
father. “I thought you’re so brave, Daddy. I have never seen you
this helpless and I suspected there were tears in your eyes.”
“Vida!”
She laughed while running away.
“Who’s her mother?” Joanna asked.
“She was one of those girls, you know. It was one of the
nights when I forgot the protection. I got drank. Don’t ask me if
Vida was mine. She was a loose woman but she doesn’t take two
men at a time. She wanted abortion. I was horrified. I offered
marriage and both agreed to a divorce after giving birth to her. I
gave her enough money and parted ways. End of the story.”
“Oh…” she recalled what it was like to not having a
mother.
Franz faced her. “I love you, Joanna.