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Cinq Diamante: Chapter 13 Part 1

gabie

I stand completely still with my arms crossed with my friends just right behind me. All of our eyes were on a girl who was holding a lavender piece of paper close to her chest.

"I-I..." she stammers and gulped.

I tilt my head in curiosity. "Oh?"

Wind blew gently, making the trees surrounding us dance gracefully as their leaves fall with beauty.

She reaches out the lavender paper to me and looks to the side.

"G-Gabie," the soft voice calls out to me, "I have been keeping this for a while. B-But, I like you..." Her eyes are closed tightly, I can sense the cringe she's feeling.

She gulps.

"I'm prepared to accept any response from you."

I smiled.

I grabbed the paper from her and she opens her eyes to confirm the sudden emptiness in her hands.

"It's okay," I said, "Thank you for your effort."

I put the paper inside my pocket. Her eyes soften in relief and a smile forms on her face.

"However, I'm sorry, I don't waste my time on inconsequential things."

I can hear my friends burst into laughter behind me.

"God, are you guys hearing this girl right now?" One of them pulls me away and we begin walking.

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ch12 v2 continuation

"So, you're telling me you helped her ditch work because you forgot to let her go and you just realized that in the elevator and you two shrugged it off and made her join you," Mr. Han raises his eyebrows at the Riveras.

He stands up and walks to them. "Alright, seems like a valid reason."

Valid? VALID? Is he on his right mind now? He must be kidding me. I doubt he's okay...

"The two of you, don't do that again or there will be other consequences," he warns them and Francis gulps in fear.

"And you," he stands very close in front of Darlene.

His cold eyes stare into hers which are full of expression.

"M-Mr. Han--" her words were cut by his finger in front of her lips.

"Shush. Not a word from you," he grabs her by the chin to make sure her eyes are only on him.

His lips almost on hers, he says:

"You have been a very troublesome girl. However, since it's you, I'll let this slide...for now."

to be continued

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Cinq Diamante: Chapter 12 ver 2

noreen

Mr. Han returned from his trip this morning. I'm very worried since it's now 4 PM and yet he still no where to be seen. I'm perpelxed. He says he has something to tell me.

I press the button on the elevator and to my surprise, the doors opened to reveal the man I was just talking about.

He looks like stone as usual but I feel like there's something wrong.

"Mr. Han, where have you been? The employees have been looking for you," I tell him but doesn't bother looking at me.

"Mm, sure," was all I got from him.

He begins to walk to his office, I have no choice but to follow him since I have so many things to question.

He puts a jacket on his desk and looks out the window. He seems to be deep in thought. Is...Is he not going to say anything? I have been standing on one spot for what has felt like hours.

I stare at the words on the paper held by my clipboard, not knowing what to do.

"Ms. Villacis," he finally speaks properly. His arms are crossed and his eyes are furrowed.

"Yes?"

"Am I not enough for my position?" He turns to face me and there's an expression on his face I have never seen before. I have seen him smile at times but he's always carrying that same stoic and cold expression with him. However, his face now is just so different... It's clear to me that something is bugging him.

That question left me wordless.

"Actually. Don't mind the question," He grabs the jacket from his desk and hands it over to me.

"Sir?" I raise an eyebrow at his occupied hand.

"Give this to Darlene please," I get the jacket from his hand, "also, schedule another trip. I need time from my father's mess."

I nod my head and exit his office.

God, there's so much on my shoulders.

<timeskip>

God.

I'm tired and I haven't seen her.

I lean against the wall in the lobby, feeling completely hopeless.

'Where is she,' I thought to myself.

Slightly frustrated, I gave up doing it myself and asked other employees.

I tap on one of the employees' shoulders who were talking in one area, the one who is known for being the flower boy out of all the employees.

"Oh, Ms. Villacis. Is there anything I can assist you with?" He smiles at me.

"Not much," I shake my head, "I just want to know where the new employee, Darlene, is at."

"Oh her. I was cleaning Sir Ianne's room and I saw Sir Cedric and another man talking to each other outside. The other man was wearing blue and he was holding Darlene. After that the three of them went to the elevator and I don't know," he shrugged his shoulders.

"Thank you," I bow and smile at him.

They must've helped her ditch her duties. Damn it. That girl is in so much trouble.

I got inside the elevator and pressed the button to the lowest floor.

Darlene, Cedric, and...another man? In blue?

Odd. Unless it's...

The elevator door opens to the parking lot and I see three familiar faces with eyes wide open. I look at the man with blond hair.

"Francis?!"

"Noreen?!"

I step out of the elevator.

"Woah. Noreen, you didn't tell me you knew my brother existed. Same with you lil' bro," Cedric teasingly punched Francis on the arm.

I exchanged glances with Francis then I look at Cedric. "It's a long story..."

"Anyway," I changed the topic. I look at Darlene who was giving me an awkward smile.

"Darlene. Here's something from Mr. Han," I tossed her thr jacket Mr. Han gave me.

"Well then," Cedric chuckled, "Me and Francis will get going then, right 'Cis?"

"..." Francis' eyes were glued on the floor. He just nodded and didn't let out any words.

"Not so fast," I kept them from escaping the secnario.

"You three still have to explain to Mr. Han why you guys helped Darlene with ditching work."

The older one groaned and whilst the other one stayed silent.

In Mr. Han's office...

The Riveras explain their story and beg for forgiveness from Mr. Han.

He sat still and listened to every word that escapes from their mouth.

"So, you're telling me you helped her ditch work because you forgot to let her go and you just realized that in the elevator and you two shrugged it off and made her join you," Mr. Han raises his eyebrows at the Riveras.

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Ch12 continuation

"Francis?!"

"Noreen?!"

I step out of the elevator.

"Woah. Noreen, you didn't tell me you knew my brother existed. Same with you lil' bro," Cedric teasingly punched Francis on the arm.

I exchanged glances with Francis then I look at Cedric. "It's a long story..."

"Anyway," I changed the topic. I look at Darlene who was giving me an awkward smile, "Darlene, Mr. Han is looking for you." My thumb pointed to the lift behind my back.

"Well then," Cedric chuckled, "Me and Francis will get going then, right 'Cis?"

"..." Francis' eyes were glued on the floor. He just nodded and didn't let out any words.

"Not so fast," I kept them from escaping the secnario. "You two will have to explain to Mr. Han why you offered Darlene to ditch work so you'll be coming along."

The older one groaned and whilst the other one stayed silent.

In Mr. Han's office...

The Riveras explain their story and beg for forgiveness from Mr. Han.

He sat still and listened to every word that escapes from their mouth.

"So, you're telling me you helped her ditch work because you forgot to let her go and you just realized that in the elevator and you two shrugged it off and made her join you," Mr. Han raises his eyebrows at the Riveras.

He stands up and walks to them. "Alright, seems like a valid reason."

Valid? VALID? Is he on his right mind now? He must be kidding me. I doubt he's okay...

"The two of you, don't do that again or there will be other consequences," he warns them and Francis gulps in fear.

"And you," he stands very close in front of Darlene.

His cold eyes stare into hers which are full of expression.

"M-Mr. Han--" her words were cut by his finger in front of her lips.

"Shush. Not a word from you," he grabs her by the chin to make sure her eyes are only on him.

Then he says something highly unexpected...

"Don't leave me and stay within my sight, got it?"

to be continued

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Cinq Diamante: Chapter 12: Caught

noreen

Mr. Han returned from his trip this morning. I'm very worried since it's now 4 PM and yet he still no where to be seen. I'm perpelxed. He says he has something to tell me.

I press the button on the elevator and to my surprise, the doors opened to reveal the man I was just talking about.

He looks like stone as usual but I feel like there's something wrong.

"Mr. Han, where have you been? The employees have been looking for you," I tell him but doesn't bother looking at me.

"Mm, sure," was all I got from him.

He begins to walk to his office, I have no choice but to follow him since I have so many things to question.

He puts a jacket on his desk and looks out the window. He seems to be deep in thought. Is...Is he not going to say anything? I have been standing on one spot for what has felt like hours.

I stare at the words on the paper held by my clipboard, not knowing what to do.

"Ms. Villacis," he finally speaks properly. His arms are crossed and his eyes are furrowed.

"Yes?"

"Am I not enough for my position?" He turns to face me and there's an expression on his face I have never seen before. I have seen him smile at times but he's always carrying that same stoic and cold expression with him. However, his face now is just so different... It's clear to me that something is bugging him.

That question left me wordless.

I'm a woman who gives advice and lectures others. This question bothers me. I cannot seem to respond.

"..."

"Be frank with me," he sighs, "I repeat, 'Am I not enough?'" He looks at me, waiting for an answer.

"...I'm pretty sure you're already enough," I say.

A thought came into my mind and I think I know what makes him say that.

"Is this about your father and brother?"

"Yes. I guess the question itself made it evident," he sits down and massages his temples. "I don't know Noreen. My thoughts are unorganized at this point. There are these tangles in my mind that are getting worse. I just want someone who can understand...possibly like her."

Huh, her? Who does he have on mind?

I ask, "Dropping the formality already. May I know who this 'her' is?" I tilt my head and hold my clipboard closer to my chest.

He paused before he replied.

"...Darlene."

His hands fidget with the jacket on his desk.

"Her?" I hummed, thinking, "Why 'like her'? Perhaps it is better if you talk to her and not someone similar?"

Crap. I shouldn't have said that but...it hurts to know that he's like this. It's very rare, I've encountered him like this sometimes but he has only told the gist of the situation in the past. Will he be any different if he handles this with Darlene?

Speaking of her, I wonder how he got such an idea of her when they don't stay with each other. I mean, I'm aware of their temporary relationship but it was for a short time. I'm curious of his reason.

"Gabie, why her? Out of all the people you've been with, she has been with you for the shortest amount of time. Why is that," I inquired.

His grip on the jacket seems tighter. "I simply do not know. Maybe it's because of how we spent the time with each other. She didn't hesitate when I asked her for a fake relationship. She didn't question anything I did. All she did was smile and appreciated the things I do for her, the smile that comforts me... That's what makes me feel like I can trust her," he says.

"I see."

"Noreen," he calls.

"Yes?"

"Get Darlene for me."

I nod and headed outside the office.

<timeskip>

God.

I'm tired and I haven't seen her.

I lean against the wall in the lobby, feeling completely hopeless.

'Where is she,' I thought to myself.

Slightly frustrated, I gave up doing it myself and asked other employees.

I tap on one of the employees' shoulders who were talking in one area, the one who is known for being the flower boy out of all the employees.

"Oh, Ms. Villacis. Is there anything I can assist you with?" He smiles at me.

"Not much," I shake my head, "I just want to know where the new employee, Darlene, is at."

"Oh her. I was cleaning Sir Ianne's room and I saw Sir Cedric and another man talking to each other outside. The other man was wearing blue and he was holding Darlene. After that the three of them went to the elevator and I don't know," he shrugged his shoulders.

"Thank you," I bow and smile at him.

I got inside the elevator and pressed the button to the lowest floor.

Darlene, Cedric, and...another man? In blue?

Odd. Unless it's...

The elevator door opens to the parking lot and I see three familiar faces with eyes wide open. I look at the man with blond hair.

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Chapter 11 continuation

"Understand? Why is it always me? Where were you when I was crying because my mother left at an early age? You didn't even try understanding me when you were hitting and insulting me for the past few years! I'm not giving in because I can't risk what reminds me of my mother the most. It was her wish for me to be like y-you," my tone was still pretty stable but I couldn't help the tears sliding down. I looked at him, poker-faced. "I want this and I'm not going to let you take it away just through talk."

My blood was just boiling at this point. I admit, I'm afraid but I simply cannot show it on my face.

He looks down in guilt. "...Look, I'm sorry. Son I--"

"CALL ME 'SON' ONE MORE DAMN TIME!"

I huffed, throat feeling dry from that one single line.

"Out," I requested, no, demanded him.

He stood up but he hesitated to move.

I gave him an intimidating stare, "Did I stutter?"

He shakes his head and starts walking to the door. Before he fully closed it, he said two last words.

"Forgive me."

...

I tossed the jacket to the coffee table and I flopped onto my couch.

Such a pain in the neck sometimes. This isn't like me. Why do I feel so bottled up and sentimental today?

Maybe...I'm just in an immense amount of exhaustion.

I want to shut the world out and stay here.

I need someone who can care and understand me.

Perhaps someone like her...

to be continued

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Cinq Diamante: Ch11: Family Problems

gabie

God, I’m drained. I just arrived from a business trip and I’m back. I open the door to my penthouse and I’m greeted by the comforting and especial smell.

I sigh at the realization of the work I still have to do. I settle my luggage in one spot and fix myself some tea.

I place my tea-filled cup on a table and bring out my laptop to check some of my emails. So much requests and offers, do I even have time to check them all?

Oh. An email from father.

‘from: chairmandevega@zoogle.com

My Dearest Son,

My sincere apologies for taking your time for this message. As your father, I would like to meet you some time this week and invite you to lunch with me and your new mother next week.

I look forward to see you, son.

Your father,

Mr. de Vega ’

Meeting? Lunch? That’s unlike of him to ask me for such a thing. I guess it won’t hurt.

I take a sip of my tea.

I look at through the rest of my messages and I see one from Denz.

“Tsk,” I click on the email and pressed the trash. I didn’t bother giving it a read.

I finish up my warm drink and proceed to my bed. However, on my way something caught my attention in the living room.

I walked to the garment hanging from the couch.

It’s a jacket. This surely isn’t mine.

I examine the clothing and think about its possible owner. Well, no one else has really been inside this place.

Except…

Ah, yes. Darlene…

That strange yet interesting girl.

I’ve seen this before but it had never occured to me that I should return it. I guess I simply forgot because of my hectic schedule.

While I’m not busy, I think it’ll be a wise decision to return it to her now.

I open the door but I was greeted by someone highly unexpected to come at this time.

“Father?” I stammered in bafflement.

He laughs like the aged man he is. “Of course,” he welcomes himself inside and closes the door.

Well no more returning of her jacket then…

“What are you doing here? We haven’t even planned a certain time for us to meet,” I say.

“I just wanted to talk about your business,” he shakes his head. He proceeds to settle on my couch.

I sighed. “Not now,” I muttered.

“Gabriel,” he started, “I think I need to put your brother back into his original position.”

“…Oh,” I grasp tightly onto the jacket in my hand, slightly angered at what he’s saying.

My family’s a mess.

Yes, my brother, you might be wondering. He is 4 years older than I and he’s from my father’s very first wife.

He left us.

I’m ticked off with the fact my father is deciding to let him take over?

After the last incident? I don’t think so.

The business got better when I began to handle it myself. At times like these I start to wonder if I am his son.

“Son, I know it’s a lot to ask–”

“Stop calling me 'son’,” I say, looking away from him. I cross my arms in stress.

“…but I think it’s for the best,” he continued.

“Best? Must I remind you that the very reason why I’m only handling our business for our family’s sake is because he left us without a notice just because he simply couldn’t handle it,” I tried to keep my patience steady.

“He started at an age earlier than you! Think before you open your mouth. He could’ve been burdened at the time,” he fights back.

“Burden that would’ve stopped bothering him because of your sudden drinking habits,” I bite back at him. I’m just so stressed out this time.

He speaks again, “I know but now he’s back, son–”

“I am not your son,” I started to raise my tone.

“Juan Gabriel de Vega! Listen to me for Christ’s sake. I know it’s frustrating but I know he has the potential. Let this be the opportunity for you to spend the rest of your days to be happy and free. Please try to understand–”

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Character Profiles, again

CHARACTERS

Darlene Padovan:

18y/o

Status: No one seems to know why but there is something special about this girl. She’s kind, naive, and free-spirited like the young woman she is. She tends to be stressed about her emotions. However, her life changed. One look at the man of her interest and she feels absolutely helpless.

Juan Gabriel de Vega:

19y/0

Status: Fluent in both French and Korean, there's no one else like Juan Gabriel de Vega. A successful young CEO of the hotel Cinq Diamante who grew up in Korea then France. He is known as "Mr. Han" because it sounds better than his first name. Some say this man resembles a rock and a robot but somehow he tells others that they don't seem to understand who he really is.

Timothy John Tan :

18y/o

Status: the mafia boss of Dead State, a well known mafia that will send shivers down your spine. He is Mr. Han's best friend and they will do anything for each other. Nonetheless, there is something fishy about him.

Ianne Quinto:

20y/o

Status: One of Mr. Han's close friends. Known all over the country for his appearance and fluency in French and a little Korean. A famous model indeed. He and Mr. Han met in Korea at some point but both became closer during their high school years in France.

Cedric Rivera:

18y/o

Status: Underrated one in the group, blind in one eye, no one knows why though. He's a thief and a womanizer. He steals items from auctions and other people and sell them, resulting in great fortune and wealth. He was originally a great photographer but the blindness in his eye just ruined it for him. Some say despite his womanizing habits, there is someone special in his heart.

Noreen Villacis:

18y/o

Status: Monotonous and often straigh to the point. You can tell that is well-mannered and formal but tends to be casual at times. She's the doctor of the group but is considered to be Mr. Han's assitant and one of the best members of Dead State.

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Character Profiles: Denz

Maria Denise De Leon:

18 y/o

Status: A successful model in Victoria Secret. Loves to hang out with Kendall & Kylie Jenner. She claims to be Mr. Han's previous lover years ago but some things just didn't click. It's a mystery between their break-up but now she's back. Busy contemplating about the past won't wipe the years that she wasted tears on. She's getting an answer from him and she's taking him back.

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Cinq Diamante Character Profiles: Rivera Bros

-Rivera Brothers:

Cedric Rivera:

18y/o

Status: He is the eldest one among them three. His main color is red and is the most wealthy one. He says like to tease the youngest brother.

…

Troy Rivera:

18y/o

Status: He’s the second eldest and is often seen wearing yellow or gold. He isn’t seen much because he teaches in a country far away. Some would say he’s more serious than the eldest, Cedric.

…

Francis Rivera:

17y/o

Status: Youngest son. He’s a half-brother since the mother of the other 2 died so he’s from another one. He has natural blond hair and wears blue most of the time. He came with the idea of having colors for each of the brothers and they agreed. He’s the one being teased and pushed around by his brothers but he knows it’s all for fun and games.

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ch10 continuation

"Say, Darlene? Is that right," Francis asks.

"Yep," I reply.

"Aren't you the lover of Mr. Han?"

"WHAT?!" - Me and Cedric

"Yeah? You don't know yourself? It has been on news since 3 weeks ago. His father announced it himself," he tells us.

The elevator door opens and we're at the parking lot. We all stayed silent and Cedric guided us to his car.

Cedric's face changes immediately. A gloomy expression changed into a mischievious one.

"Putting all worries aside. Let's go have some fun. Don't worry about your job Darlene, Mr. Han's probably too busy resting to notice," he beams at me.

I smile back at him and nod my head.

I have a bad feeling about this but I trust them.

I get in the backseat and prepare for the ride.

to be continued...

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Cinq Diamante: Chapter 10: Rivera Brothers

narrator

It has been a while since Mr. Han confronted his father, a month to be exact. Everything became quiet at the meantime, too quiet. Darlene is back to doing her maidly duties. Mr. Han is busy with schedule and trips but he's now back, relieved so he can finally rest. Noreen piled up so much paper, poor girl. Ianne has been taking so many interviews. Cedric locks himself in his room...

Hold on, a person is missing.

Oh. Timothy? He's nowhere to be found...

Anyway all this to say, everyone has been so busy that they haven't been interacting with each other. Somehow a lonely atmosphere formed in the hotel and everything is silent.

...

darlene

And done!

I finish up fixing the bed and my work here in this room is done. I wipe the sweat off my forehead and take a good look around the room.

I nod in contentment. I grab my cart and headed outside. It should be time for my break.

After Mr. Han had a meeting with his father, he actually gave me a room to stay in and it's at the floor where Ianne and the others stay.

I pack up the cart and store it in its storage area in this floor. I go up to my room by lift for my break.

...

On my way, I stopped in my tracks because two people were blocking my way, one in red and the other in blue.

Cedric and....some person I don't know.

I shook it off and tried to get through. "Excuse me..."

An arm, covered in a blue sleeve, keeps me from continuing to go to my room. "Uhh..."

I ignore the mysterious man and looked at Cedric. We both stood there staring into each other's eyes but then it hit him.

"Oh..." he looks at the owner of the arm, "Put your arm down now. Let her go," he demands the man slightly shorter than him.

I have to admit. The one in blue has a better face than Cedric. They look somewhat similar. He looks younger and fresher.

"And let a fine lady go," he smirks, "i don't think so." He shakes his head playfully then he pulls me into his chest. "After all, big brothers influence their siblings."

Ah, so these both are siblings?

I glance at Cedric who seems to be gritting his teeth. "Damn it Francis, just let her go. I don't have time to scold you for shit," he said with an agitated tone.

I tried pulling away from this 'Francis' but he was too strong for me. I just stood there with no choice but to stay.

"Oh?" Francis starts to sound childish. "Instead of arguing, how about having some brother time?" he suggests.

I, for one, don't have a problem with that. However, something seems fishy with that idea.

Cedric pauses to think.

...

...

...

It was his time to smirk.

"Alright. Let's go," and the two 'brothers' grin at each other and walk to the elevator bringing me along, forgetting that I'm not supposed to be with them.

Once inside the lift, I decided to speak up.

"I'm...supposed to be on my break," I said timidly. I was pretty frozen since the two taller men by my side were intimidating me.

The realization hits them and they glance at me and at each other.

Francis becomes pretty chill.

"Oh well, I guess we'll be responsible. Don't worry, lady. There's no turning back," he puts his elbow on my head.

Cedric, who seemed to hesitate at first, nodded his head. "Agreed. Especially with the Rivera brothers," he pushes Francis' elbow off of me, "Take it down a mental note for now, Darlene." he then winks at me.

"Oh yeah," he spoke up again," Late introductions! Francis, this is Darlene," he points to me, "Darlene, this is Francis. He's the youngest one among us three whilst I am the oldest."

I nod my head, processing this information in my brain. Something came into my mind...

"Wait...Three? Who's the middle child then," I ask, the question directed to both Riveras.

The laugh in unison.

"Troy," Francis says. "It's kind of funny though. I'm blue anc Cedric's red. Can you guess Troy's color?" He asks.

I take my time to think.

"Is it green? That's all I can think of that'll match you guys," I said honestly. To be frank, I just based it on a musical: Heathers.

"Close," the red guy says. "Francis got the idea from this musical called 'Hamilton'. You must've guessed because of Heathers instead. We're based on the Schuyler Sisters. Troy's color is yellow," he explains.

Oh I get it. Why didn't I think of that?

"However, I think Francis is a huge nerd to bring that idea up," Cedric laughs, emphasis on 'nerd'.

"Oh yeah?," Francis bites back. "Well, you agreed to it anyway." He turns away and ignores eye contact with his older brother.

...

"Say, Darlene? Is that right," Francis asks.

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Cinq Diamante: Ch9 continuation # 2

As I was waiting for the elevator to arrive, my phone rang on the spot.

I look the caller’s name. Oh, I wonder why she called. It’s been a while…

I press on the green button to pick it up.

“Hello?” I started.

‘It’s been a while, Timothy…’

“Is this…” I didn’t bother to mention the name. I gulp, worried of what she could possibly want.

'Who else can it be?’ Though I can’t see her, I can imagine that smug face of hers.

I hesitated and waited for her to speak once more.

“…” I stayed quiet.

'Oh, so silent. Anyway, I need a favor,’ I can hear her laugh over the phone.

Is it right to answer her or…?

I guess it won’t hurt right?

“Alright,” I spoke up.

.

.

.

.

.

.

“What is it that you need from me, Denz?”

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CinqDiamante: ch9 continuation

I look the caller's name. Oh, I wonder why she called. It's been a while...

I press on the green button to pick it up.

“Hello?” I started.

“It’s been a while, Timothy...”

“Is this...” I didn’t even bother mentioning the name. I gulp worrying of what she could possibly want.

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Cinq Diamante: Chapter 9

cedric

I was just driving my car in the city and all of the sudden it rained. I knew I shoudn't have sang earlier. Damn it, it's so hard to see. I turn on the window wiper and my view becomes much clearer but something caught my eye after a few mintues. I drive to the side and stopped there. I exit the car with my umbrella and walked over to the unconscious body.

Wait...Darlene?

What are the odds of seeing her like this here...

How the hell am I supposed to pick her up? I guess I need to get wet to do this.

I close my umbrella and put it in my car and opened the door to the backseat then went back to Darlene. I pick her, pissed off at the water dripping down my face since it's bothering me. Fortunately, she was light so I didn't struggle to bring her to the backseat. I close the door then went back to drive.

I remove my jacket and tossed it to the shotgun and put on my seatbelt. I look at Darlene's figure through the rearview mirror and sigh. I begin my drive back to Cinq Diamante...

<timeskip>

I'm carrying Darlene in my arms bridal style and I'm in front of TJ's door.

"Oi! The fuck you doing? I know you're there. Open the door," instead of knocking on the door like a normal person would do, I was kicking it non-stop since my hands are occupied. I was ready for another kick, "Are you gonna let me in or--"

I take a step back to get my balance back from the sudden open of the door.

"The hell Cedric? Gosh, get in already before I shoot you in the mouth," he gestures me to get in, which I did do. He closes the door then sits on one of the chairs. "Just put the girl on the bed."

I placed her down gently then faced the mafia boss. I'm disgusted as he grabs a cigarette from the box then lights it. He did this on purpose since he knows I hate the unpleasant smell. I tsk-ed at him then sat on a chair from across the room, far away from him.

He removes the cigar from his mouth then points the shit stick at me, "Got wet, didn't you?"

I hummed in bedevilment. "Really? I didn't notice," I snarkily commented. He just laughed. He throws his cigar to the ash tray and we both stay in that moment in silence.

...

"Heh."

I look up to look at the man who was suddenly full of glee.

"I'm surprised Ced."

I raise my eyebrow at him "Surprised? What do you mean by that?"

"Haha," he laughs. "I just find it funny you didn't touch the girl considering your perverted personality."

Now that I think about it. He's right. I haven't even flirted with her or said anything about her which really off of me.

I just chuckled in agreement. "You know, TJ...You're right. I don't know. There's something about her. I just feel like... Gabie's keeping me from doing that."

"Oh," a smug smile plays on his lips, "What makes you say that?"

"Well, if you have noticed those twi have been really close for the past few days. You don't think...?"

"No, no," he puts the leg over the other one, "I don't think so..."

"Oh," I sigh of relief.

"...I know so except--" I cut him off.

I stand up from my seat. "What? 'Scuse me?"

He stands up as well and walk towards me. "Woah," he makes me sit back down, "let me finish."

He clears his throat. "Yes they're in a relationship. However, it's not a legitimate one. Gabie told me it was all for show, so he won't be forced to marry his ex..."

"Denz?" I make a smart guess.

"Of course, he has only been in one real relationship anyway and that was 3 years ago, before he was forced to drop out of high school." He pushes up his glasses.

"Oh, I see..."

timothy

"Yes they're in a relationship. However, it's not a legitimate one. Gabie told me it was all for show, so he won't be forced to marry his ex," I explain to Cedric whose eyes are glimmering with interest and confusion. After all, this is just new information to him. He sits there in awe.

He looks up to me.

"...Denz?" He guesses correctly.

I nod my head."Of course, he has only been in one real relationship anyway and that was 3 years ago, before he was forced to drop out of high school," I further explain, adjusting my glasses.

"Oh I see..." Cedric spaces out.

Ah, I remember that I was supposed to pick up something at the hang out from Noreen.

I untangle the knots from my hair and walk to the door.

"Ahh, Cedric if you don't mind I need to get something. Watch over Darlene for me. Not like you have a choice to say 'no' anyway," I inform him.

"But Ti--"

I close the door without letting him finish.

As I was waiting for the elevator to arrive, my phone rang on the spot.

I look the caller's name. Oh, I wonder why she called. It's been a while...

[kceastro-blog]

Ch8 ver 2 continuation

“The deal is off,” he says. Mr. de Vega then reaches his hand to me for a handshake. “Darlene, young lady, take care of my son,” he grins at me.

I grin back at him and shake his hand. I look at Denz whose eyes are wide open, shocked of the sudden twist.

“No,” she stands from her seat, “I’ll be back. Things should go my way!” She walks out of the shop, leaving me with the two de Vegas.

Gabie, who has stayed silent for a long time, finally speaks up, “Father, you can’t be serious…”

His father laughs, “Of course I am.”

Gabie’s eyes soften. “Father, thank you,” he says.

Mr. de Vega stands up from his seat, excusing himself since he says he has an appointment.

That’s our cue to leave as well. We go outside and get in the car. I hesitated when we were standing still right in front of the car. He notices this and asks me.

“Is there anything wrong,” he asks. I try to avois eye contact with the taller man as much as possible.

Shit, think of an excuse. “Uh, no! I just remember I had to do something in the city so you can go ahead,” I put on a fake smile although it’s useless since my head was down for the entire conversation.

“I–,” he takes back the first word of his sentence, “…Sure, suit yourself. Just be back for work tomorrow,” he informs me then went inside his car. I just nodded and started walking along the sidewalk.

Imbecile! I cringe as I make my way through the busy streets, not sure of what I’m trying to do exactly.

Little by little, rain starts to drop on my head and umbrellas start opening from a distance. The rain got heavier and the wind blows my hair away from my face. At that point I ignore whatever was around me and quit caring. Tears rolled down my cheeks, mixing with the rain water that has reached me and a smile forms on my face.

The amount of people decreased and I was all alone walking on the street, still smiling like an idiot. I ignore the pain on my chest and continued walking. My vision starts to get blurry and my body begins to feel heavy. My pace slows down.

Heh, I hate to admit it, but I can’t help bit think of Mr. Han… Is this what you call…

Nah…

I hate Mr. Han for being my boss. I hate Mr. Han for just using me. I hate Mr. Han for making me go through all that trouble. I hate Gabie for making me feel this way.

I hate…

‘The colors of the world starts to fade away.’

I…hate…

'My body was slowly falling down.’

I…

'But that didn’t matter because’

I love him. I love him so goddamn much.

'and everything went black.’

[kceastro-blog]

Cinq Diamante: Ch8 version 2

gabie.

It’s time. My agreement with father. I get out of the car and look at my watch. “8:46AM,” I read. I go to the shotgun seat and open the door, Darlene getting out as soon as possible. We both stand in front of a coffee shop where me and my father are supposed to meet in.

Darlene tugs on my sleeve. “We’re going to be fine right,” she asks, obviously concerned.

“Yes,” I nod my head. “After all of this it’s over. We can go back to our normal lives. You will do your job and I’ll stay as your boss.”

I can hear her sigh and she looks down as I said ‘over’.

We enter the shop and our seats. I sit right beside and across the table is just an empty seat waiting for father. We both sit in silence.

Darlene puts her hair to the side and starts fidgeting with the necklace I gave her.

It has been a while since my last time check. I look at my watch and I sigh. '9:03AM’ I said in my mind. He’s late.

I slouched on my seat, still waiting for him. I look at the floor and a pair of shoes stop in front of me. I look up to see my father with a cranky expression.

“Father? Please, take a seat,” I offered and pointed to the empty seat in front of me. He raises and eyebrow at me and he takes a seat.

I look at the entrance of the shop and something in particular caught my attention. A flashy girl wearing sunglasses walks toward us and look at my father.

“There you are Mr. de Vega,” she removes her sunglasses and takes a seat beside him. She looks at me, “Good to see you Gabie. Hasn’t been very long since our last meeting,” she grins.

I click my tongue in disgust. “I don’t like to repeat myself. I wasn’t there to meet you. It just so happened that you were there, Denz,” I say, emphasis on her name.

Father looks at me then back at Denz. “Son. Denz. You know each other?”

“Yes father,” I replied.

Me and Denz make eye contact. “We keep meeting,” we both said in unison.

The flashy girl laughs out loud. “Ha, you must be surprised to see me as youe future wife?”

I find myself reaching for Darlene’s hand beside me and I held it. “Of course not. My stepmother already told me about you.” It was my time to laugh. “I just find it funny that my father just had to choose my ex.”

My father speaks up, “Ex?” Me and Denz nod. “Well then, if you’re going to be back together then it must be meant to be.”

Denz looks satisfied with his statement and I just glared at him. “Now father,” I started, “Let’s give my woman, Darlene, a chance.”

Denz raises an eyebrow and clicks her tongue. Ah yes, they met before at that photoshoot.

“Alright,” my father gets comfortable on his seat, “Darlene,” he says her name.

“Yes sir?” The girl beside me responds.

“Impress me.”

She nods her head and tells things about herself.

darlene

“Impress me,” Gabie’s father tells me.I nod my head and do as he says.

“I love your son, sir. My name is Darlene Padovan and I’m 18 years old, sir. I studied in a country very far and away from parents. Sir, I know it may not sound like a lot but,” I take a deep breath to say the next few words. “I love him, sir,” I holds his hand.

He hums, still doesn’t look impressed. “Denz, express your love for my son,” he snaps his finger and adjusts from his seat.

She sits up straight and smiles confidently. “Gladly,” she gives me a look.

“Mr. de Vega. I love your son so much that I would do anything for him. I will do my best to please him and I will obey him. We can both help each other in our business. I will make him happy if I am in a relatipnship with him. I will my job as a woman to my man,” she smirks. She is very proud with her explanation.

Oh no, Mr. de Vega looks very impressed now. If I have to get Mr. de Vega to approve of our fake relationship, I’m going to have to do my best. I have to do better than Denz. I need to do this…for Gabie.

“Darlene,” he says ,“It’s your turn. Express your love.” he commands me. His voice sending a shiver down my spine. I’m not going to let him intimidate me.

“Sir,” I gulp, “I love him.”

Mr. de Vega raises his eyebrow at me. Denz bursts out into laughter. Gabie looks disappointed and lets out a sigh.

“That does it th–” I cut off Mr. de Vega’s words.

“I’m not finished,” I say.

“Oh? Go ahead,” he tells me.

“I’m not very good with words, sir. However, I just wanted to speak the truth. I love him. I really do love Gabie. I may not tell him a lot of pretty words but I love him and that’s all he has to hear. Instead of repeating the same words, I swear I’ll show him my love through actions. I will risk myself just for him. Sir, I know I’m not like you but,” I pause, “Because I love him, I would be be happy as long as I see him smiling, even if I’m not the reason for his smiles. I would choose his happiness over mine any time and to me, that’s love.” I give them a small smile.

That left the three of them silent.

Mr. de Vega speaks up. “Denz,” he says. I look down at the ground in defeat.

Denz perks up, “Yes sir?” She says proudly.

“The deal is off,” he says. Mr. de Vega then reaches his hand to me for a handshake. “Darlene, young lady, take care of my son,” he grins at me.

I grin back at him and shake his hand. I look at Denz whose eyes are wide open, shocked of the sudden twist.

“No,” she stands from her seat, “I’ll be back. Things should go my way!” She walks out of the shop, leaving me with the two de Vegas.

Gabie, who has stayed silent for a long time, finally speaks up, “Father, you can’t be serious…”

His father laughs, “Of course I am.”