ANN’S POV:

 

DREAM….

“Devon? What are you doing? *Walking near Ann who was already in the middle of the road. Ann was really scared.*”

“I know you love him so much. But I’m sorry I can’t give him to you. *Devon said as she was playing with a gun.*”

“So you ruined everything?”

“Yes! *Devon answered as she pointed the gun to Ann.”

“How could you? *Ann asked with a fierce eyes fixed unto Devon.*”

“Because you’ve got everything Ann and you leave nothing for me. And now, I’m getting James from you too!”

“What do you mean?”

“Remember the kid you saw before in front of your gate before? It was me Ann!”

“Why are you telling me this?”

“Because I’m your dad’s daughter!”

“What?!”

“Do you know the reason why your parents broke up? It’s because your mom learned about me.”

“How..”

“But instead on going to my mom, our dad chose to live alone.

He gave you everything you wanted. A luxurious life, good education,

nice home. But what did he give us? Just enough Ann! Just enough!”

“If he’s giving you enough, why are you still doing this?”

“Because I wanted more. I want everything that you have Ann!”

“What?”

“And if you’ll be lost, he’ll surely give everything to me.

He would never want to lose another daughter would he?

*Devon said as she was already holding the trigger of the gun ready to shoot Ann.

“Stop it Devon! *Ann yelled as she tried to snatch the gun from Devon.*”

“No you stop it Ann! *Devon yelled back as she tried to stop Ann from getting the gun.

Devon had much force than Ann so she was able to push her away.

Ann was already on the other side of the road after Devon pushed her.

Devon once again pointed the gun to Ann as she went closer.*”

“BEEEEEEEEEEEP!!!!!!!! * Suddenly, a car came and was about to hit Devon*”

“Devooooooooonnnn!!!!!!! *Ann yelled as she ran as fast as she could to push Devon.*”

“CRASSSSSHHHHHHH!!!!! *It was then Ann who got hit by the car.*”

END OF DREAM..

“NOoooooo!!!!!!!!” I woke up really perspiring. I was really scared of what

happened. “Could it be the last scene that had happen before I lost my

memory?” I asked. Suddenly, I heard my phone rang. It was Ivan who

was calling. I was still scared of what happen in my dream but I manage

to talk to him. “Hello?” I said with a nervous voice. “Ann? You okay? Did

I wake you up?” he asked. “Yeah. I’m fine. I just had a bad dream.”

I said. “You sure you’re okay?” he asked once again. “Yup I’m fine.

By the way what time would your mom want to meet me?” I asked to

change the topic. “11 o’ clock. Is it okay?” he asked. “Oh sure.” I said.

“Okay, I’ll pick you up at 10:45.” He said. “Okay.” I said. I stood up from

the bed, faced the mirror and looked at myself. “Devon’s my half sister?”

I thought to myself. After which I exited that thought and my dream. It was

already 9:10 and I still have to prepare myself. I got comfortable clothes

from my closet it was a white tee with a cute drawing in it and shorts to

pair with it I got my other stuffs after it. After I was done, I went down to

have some breakfast. “Manang, where’s mom?” I asked Manang Linda.

“She arrived during wee hours so I guess she’s still asleep.” She answered.

“I see.” I said. When I was almost done eating, my mom came rushing

down with her business attire and some luggage which she asked the

maids to bring in the car. “Mom? Where are you going?” I asked.

“Oh Ann, Honey, I’m sorry I can’t be here in a few days. Probably 3 to

4 days I guess. I have a business meeting to attend abroad.” She explained.

“It’s okay mom..but I..” was all I was  able to say when I was cut out.

“Gotta go honey. I’ll be late in my flight. Just take care of yourself okay?

If you need anything just ask Manang Linda or call me. James will be

here every day to check up on you until I get back.” she said as she kissed

my forehead and left. “Is this always like this?” I asked. “Ms. Ann, your mom

is doing this for your own good.” She said. “I know. I understand but it’s just

that, she doesn’t have time for me anymore. She doesn’t even have time for

herself.” I said. “She spent more time with you in the hospital while you’re in

coma. Your parents were always there waiting for you to wake up Ms. Ann.”

She said. “You mean, dad was also there when I was in the hospital?” I asked.

“Yup. That’s why both of them now are working so hard because they have

left their jobs for almost a month just to be there by your side and now, their

works are piling up so they have to double time.” She explained. “I see.” I

said. After I took my breakfast I went back to my room and thought of my

dream once again. “Does mom knows about Devon? Hmmm… I haven’t

talked to dad since I got back from the hospital, maybe we could talk for

some time?”I thought to myself. I got my phone and contacted my dad.

“I hope he’s not busy.” I prayed. “Hello? Ann! Honey! How are you?”

he asked. “I’m perfectly fine dad. Uhm, I’m just wondering if we could

have some time to talk?” I asked. “Well sure my princess. I will just

cancel my appointments.” He said. “Thanks daddy!” I said.

“No problem my princess. Okay, I’ll take you out. We’ll have a date,

is it okay?” he asked. “A date with my daddy? Of course!” I exclaimed.

“Well then, go dress up. I’ll pick you up at 10.” He said. Suddenly I

remembered that I have to meet Ivan’s mom. “Aish! I still have to go to

Ivan’s place. Maybe I would just ask him some other time.” I thought to

myself as I smack my foread. “Oh wait dad!” I called. “What is it my princess?”

he asked. “Uhm I’m sorry I have forgotten. I have to go somewhere else today.

I’m so sorry. Can we just do it the other day instead?” I asked.

“Where are you going? Will you be with James?” he asked.

“No. I’m going to a friend’s house.” I said. “So you’ll be with Fretzie or Jenny?”

he asked. “Oh, just a new friend dad.” I explained. “New friend?” he asked

with surprise. “Yup dad.” I said. “Okay honey. But promise me we’ll have our

date tomorrow okay? I’ll cancel all my appointments for tomorrow just to be

with you.” He said. “Aww.. Thanks daddy. I’ll just call you up okay?” I said.

“Okay. Bye my princess.” He said. “Bye dad.” I replied as I hung up the phone.

I went to the bathroom and took a shower. After a few minutes I went out and

blow dried my hair. After that, I fixed my hair and changed. It was already

10:35 which means I have to wait for ten minutes for Ivan. I turn the television

set and scanned through the channels. A moment later someone knocked

the door. “Who is that?” I asked as I went to the door to open it. Nobody

answered so I opened the door. I was shock after seeing who was the

one knocking. It was James. “James! What brought you here?” I asked

though I was still shocked. I felt awkward seeing him because of what

I have remembered last night. I tried to be calm and pretend nothing

happened for the sake of the deal we had, that if I would remember

something, everything will still be okay between us two. “You’re mom

called up and she wanted me to guard you.” He said. “What? Guard me?”

I blurted. “Yup!” he said as he let himself get in my room. “Hey!” I yelled as

he was already lying in my bed. I closed the door and approached him.

“I’m no princess or presidential daughter, James. You don’t have to guard me.

And besides I’m old enough to have guardian.” I said. “No Ann, you have to be

guarded.You said you are not a princess or a presidential daughter?

We’ll probably you’re right in that case, but you’re Ann Li, the daughter of the

president of Li clothing line and the Schuzzle Corporation. See, you’re a

presidential daughter!” he said. “Oh come on dude!” I said as I crossed

my arms. “Let me finish Ann….you said you’re no princess. But to me,

you are. You are my princess. Remember when we were younger; I was

your prince charming.” He said as he sat on the bed. “Well, I don’t remember

that James.” I said as I raised my brow. “Oh, yeah. Damn it. I forgot.” He said

as he smiled. “He’s cute when he does that. But I guess Ivan’s cuter.” I

thought to myself. “Well, I guess you have no other reason to guard me James.”

I said. “Ann.” He said. “I’m meeting Ivan’s mom today. I think I’m safe there.” I

said. “What? You’re meeting his mom?” he exclaimed as he stood up from the

bed and approached me. “You heard it right James. I’m meeting his mom.” I

said. “Wait, is he jealous? Oh wait, wait Ann, what the hell are thinking?”

I thought to myself. “Tell me. Did Ivan introduce you to his parents?” he asked.

I could sense he was mad. “Wait, why would he be mad?” I thought. “Well yeah.

His parents wanted to meet me.” I said. “So you mean he asked you to pretend

as his girlfriend in front of his parents as well? What the? So you just agreed?

Ann why do you always have to put yourself in trouble?” he yelled. “Why is he

yelling at me?” I thought to myself.  “I’m already there so I just did it.” I explained.

“I can’t let you go.” He said with a mad voice. “What? You can’t decide for me James!”

I yelled back. “Urghh Ann! Stop being childish!” he yelled as he smacked his face with his hand.

“Childish? Fine! So what then are you? Immature?” I asked sarcastically.  I could see the anger

on James’ eyes. While we were quarrelling, we heard some knocks. “Ms. Ann, Mr. Ivan is

already here.” The voice said. I glared at James and walked out. “Ann!” he called but I didn’t

look back. I headed down to see Ivan. He was in the living room seated on the sofa. “Ann.”

Ivan called while on the other hand James was running after me “Hey Ann! Ann!”

James called. “Ivan.” I said as I saw him. He stood up from his seat. James was

sort of taken aback. He was frozen from where he was after seeing Ivan. “Oh James.”

Ivan said. Suddenly, James rushed to Ivan and punched him. “James stop it!” I called

as I was trying to help Ivan to stand up after he fell because of the hard punch James

gave to him. “Are you okay?” I asked Ivan. “Yeah. I’m fine.” He answers as he stood up.

“How could you do this Ivan? How could you do this to my best friend? I would not permit

you to use her for your sake Ivan.” he said madly. “James stop this!” I commanded.

“No Ann!” he yelled. “I think I must go Ann.” Ivan said. “No Ivan, I’m coming with you.

“I said. We made our way out this house when James grabbed my wrist.

“You’re staying here!” he commanded. “You’re not my mother or my father!

So you have no rights to choose whom I’m going with!”I blurted.

James was taken aback. I saw it as a chance for me and Ivan to run away.

“Let’s go.” I said to Ivan then we went out. When we were already in his car,

I took my handkerchief. “Here.” I said as I let him face me. “I’m fine Ann.”

He rejected. “I’m sorry.” I apologized. “No Ann. It isn’t your fault, neither James’ fault.”

He said. I looked at him intently waiting for his next words. “It’s all my fault.

James’ right. Probably I was just using you to forget about Tricia. But somehow

I just can’t forget about her. I can find Tricia in you Ann.” He said. Honestly, I

don’t even care if he’s just using me to forget about Tricia, I still have hopes

that he might fall for me too. I know it’s too pathetic but, who cares? “I’m really sorry.”

I said. He just smiled at me and started driving. The trip to their house was quiet.

I felt awkward hearing nothing from him. “What must he be thinking?” I thought to

myself. When we arrived at the Dorcshner’s residence, his mom welcomed us.

“Good morning Ann.” She greeted. When she looked at her son with bruise, she

panicked and kept on asking random things. “Oh my god! Ivan, what happen to that?

How did that?” she asked continuously. “Oh, uhm, I just his that on the steering wheels.

My phone down I tried looking for it then I just hit it.” He lied. “Are you sure you’re okay?

Wait I’ll ask our maid to..” she was cut off when Ivan spoke. “No mom I’m fine it’s okay.”

He said. “I’ll just take care of it tita. Uhm, I mean, mom.” I said feeling awkward calling

her mom. We went in the house and headed to the living room. His mom asked the

maid to bring the medicine kit and an ice pack. His mother took a phone call and left

us for a moment. “You don’t have to do this Ann.” Ivan said. “You scared?” I teased.

“Of course not! Fine! Just, just do it slowly okay?” he asked. I chuckled because of

what he said. “Ouch!” he exclaimed. “Oops sorry.” I said sincerely. “Just kidding.”

He said then flushed a killer smile. “OMG!!” I thought. I slapped his shoulder for

fooling me. “Don’t you do that ever again!” I said as I pouted. Ivan chuckled then spoke,

“You know what, you’re so cute!” he said as he pinched my cheeks. “Hey stop it!”

I said though I was smiling. Suddenly, we saw a flash which came from a camera.

We looked at the way where the flash came from and saw Ivan’s mom taking a

picture of us two. “Mom!” Ivan called. “You two really look good together.”

She complimented. “His mom must really like me.” I said to myself.

“I missed my younger days, when your dad would pinch me as well

because of my cuteness..” she said. Me and Ivan laughed because

of his mom’s silliness. “I guess you two are done. Can I borrow your

Ann for awhile.” She told Ivan. Ivan just nodded and stood up. “I’ll just

leave you here Ann. I have to go somewhere else.” He said. I stood up

as well and spoke, “Okay.” I said. “Mom, take care of my precious Ann

okay?” he said to his mom. “OMG!! My precious Ann? Oh gosh I feel like

fainting!” I thought to myself. “Of course I will.” She assured. “Okay I’m going.

I’ll be back later on.” He said and left. “So, can you tell me more about yourself Ann?”

Ivan’s mom asked when we were already in the kitchen. She was teaching me

how to cook Ivan’s favorite food by the way. “Uhm, my mom is the president of the

Li clothing line and my dad’s the president of the Schuzzle Corporation.” I said while

concentrating on peeling the potatoes. “Oh, that’s interesting. I guess they’re both busy.”

She said as she was doing something. “Uhm yeah. Especially now.” I said.

“Why?” she asked. “I was hospitalized for almost a month. Both of them were

taking care of me there, so when I was already fine, they had to go back to work.

Their works are piling up so they have to double time.” I said. “You’ve been

hospitalized for almost a month? What happened?” she asked as she stopped

what she was doing and looked at me intently. “I was hit by a car. I was in coma

for almost a month.” I said. “Oh I see. I’m so sorry to hear that.” She said. “No it’s okay.”

I said. “So, tell me about your younger years. How was it?” she asked. I paused for a

moment to think of what should I tell her. I don’t remember anything from the past.

Well except for those little flashbacks I’ve got but, I can’t tell her about those stuffs, it’s

not worth telling for. “Well, uhm, I’m afraid I can’t tell you anything about my past.” I said

as I stop on peeling the potatoes and looked at her back. “May I know why?” she asked.

“I lost my memory after the accidents.” I said.  “Oh, I’m so sorry Ann. I guess I shouldn’t

ask you about this things.” she said. I just faked a smile though. She continued asking

questions but only those about my opinion and stuff. We have finished cooking several

kinds of foods. I had fun with having those chitchat with Ivan’s mom, or let say my mom.

It was already 12:20 when we finished everything. Ivan’s dad arrived home and complimented

our cooking. “You would be a good wife for my son.” Ivan’s dad said. “OMG!! They want me to

be their daughter in law.” I thought. We were already seated and was about to eat when Ivan came.

“I thought you’ll not gonna taste that Ann cooked for you.” His mom said. “I don’t want to miss it so

I came home.” he said as he sat beside me. “Smells good.” Ivan said. “Your mom helped me to cook this.”

I said. Ivan just smiled which make me smile back. “Okay let’s pray first.” His mom said. After praying,

we had a taste of our hard work. I must say it taste good. I can’t believe I can cook this good as well

with the help of Ivan’s mom. “Delicious.” His dad said. “I wish we could be like this more often.” Ivan’s

mom said. I just smiled with what she said. “Oh wait. I forgot to ask you Ann, how you and Ivan

did become together when in fact you were in coma for almost a month?” she asked. I was

choked with what she said. I don’t know what to answer her. “Ann are you okay?” Ivan asked as

he assisted me to drink water. After drinking, I thanked him. “Are you okay Ann?” his mom asked.

“Yes.” I answered plainly. “Well uhm, I used to visit her in the hospital. Every time I see it seems

like I don’t want to leave her.” I said paused as he held my hand. “OMG!” I thought. “Then I

decided, if she’d ever woke up, I’d be courting her.” he said as he looked at me and smile.

“Gosh, one more and I’ll faint.” I said to myself. “Aww, it’s so sweet.” His mom complimented.

After which we have talked on random things. After eating, Ivan and I rested on the living room

while his parents were somewhere else having a talk. “I love your mom.” I said. “She loves you too.”

He said. “Ivan?” I called. “What?” he asked. “When are we going to tell the truth?” I asked.

He looked at me sincerely and said, “Are you tired pretending?” he asked. “Oh no, it’s not it.”

I said. “Oh no. if this would end, I can’t be with him anymore. Gosh Ann! You’re pathetic!”

I said to myself. “I thought of telling them now. I could see they like you and I’m afraid they

would ask you to do something.” He said. “What do you mean.” I asked curiously.

“They like you that much Ann. Don’t you think they would they would ask you to be their daughter in law?”

he asked. “What?” I blurted. “That’s why I was thinking of telling them now.”

Ivan said when suddenly someone spoke. “Tell us what?” the voice said.

we looked at the way where we heard the voice and saw Ivan’s parents in

front of us. To our shock, we stood up and wasn’t able to say anything. “Might

as well explain what‘s happening.” His dad said. I was really terrified. They might

be mad at me for fooling them. “Oh no what should I do?” I thought to myself.

 “Mom, dad…” Ivan started after they let us take a seat. “It’s all my fault. I asked

Ann to pretend to be my girlfriend in front of everyone and most especially to Tricia.”

he said. I just remained quiet. “And who’s that Tricia?” his dad asked. “The daughter

of Huzchnette Corporation. She was my girlfriend for a long period of time. But she

dumped me.” Ivan said which turned the mood of everyone. “That’s why you asked Ann

to pretend to be your girlfriend to get back at her?” his dad asked. “Yes.” He replied.

“How could you do this to us?” his dad asked madly. “Remember I have mentioned

my girl to you? I didn’t tell you her name because I wasn’t sure yet if I’m going to face

her to you. But when I was already ready, she left me. And when you asked me if I

could bring her here, I was caught off guard and I can’t think well. It was then I

remembered I asked a favor to Ann to pretend to be my girlfriend in front of Tricia.”

he explained. Still, I remained quiet and waited for their answer. The atmosphere

became quiet. His parents were still in a state of disbelief. Now, everything’s messed up.

“What do I do now?” I thought. “Well I guess Tricia’s not for you.” He dad said.

“I think Ann’s better.” He continued. “OMG!! Did he just say that?” I asked myself.

I felt like I was already blushing. I don’t know I just can’t stop this silly feeling.

“I agree with your dad. I think Ann’s better.” His mom butted in. “Mom, she isn’t my girlfriend.”

Ivan blurted. “Well, court her then! I want her to be my daughter in law.” His mom commanded.

“I guess I can’t do that.” Ivan said with a different voice. It was like sad. “James.”

he said and paused. “What about James?” his mom asked. Ivan looked at me and continued,

“She’s James’ fiancé.” I could see his parents’ reaction. They were like disappointed with

what they have heard. “I guess Lisa and Robert are lucky.” Ivan’s mom said. “It was before.”

I interrupted. I looked at Ivan and continued, “The marriage was off.” I said.

“Why? What happened?” his mom asked. “I guess were out of it mom.” Ivan said. “Oh, I’m sorry.”

She said. “I think I should bring Ann home.” Ivan said as he stood up. I stood up as well.

“Thank you for the great time with you Mrs. Dorschner, you too Mr. Dorschner.” I said.

“Just pass by here anytime you want Ann.” His dad said. “And remember, you can still

call us mom and dad if you want.” His mom offered. “Well I guess it would be awkward

so I’ll just call you tito and tita, if it’s okay?” I asked. “Whatever you want Ann.” His mom

said smiling. “We gotta go mom, dad.” Ivan spoke. “Okay, drive safe huh.” His mom reminded.

“I will.” Ivan said. We headed to the garage and got in the car. “I’m sorry Ann for dragging you into this mess.”

He said. “Well it isn’t a complete mess.” I said and he just smiled. While he was driving me

home, he was somewhat out of his mind. He was silent the whole time and was like thinking

deeply. “Ivan?” I called luckily he responded. “You okay?” I asked. “Yeah. I’m just having headache.”

He said. “Oh maybe it was the effect when James hit you.” I said worriedly. “I guess so.” He replied

coldly. When we were already home, he rejected my offer to get in the house. I didn’t protest

because he might be having a hard time right now so I allowed him to go.