#samucarla fic | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

ckac06-blog · 5 years ago

Photo

Carmuel AU

Note that this is a super long read. This fanfic is a mix of make up content, revisions from the original story, and some parts of the original story itself. I hope Carmuel fans enjoy this long AU. The story starts at the Car scene they had in season two and continuous to season 3. I’ll also be writing a little s4 theory in the end.

Carla I'm just sick of having the people around me getting hurt or worse killed. I'm at the point where I just want to confess about everything. But Samuel, Samuel keeps on reminding me as to why I need to keep up with this act. I know that he only approached me for a reason. To find out who killed Marina. But why is it that I'm also slowly falling for him. I know he doesn't feel the same way about me. As i was walking towards my car I hear him calling me.

S: "Carla" C: "What do you want?" S: "Thank you for not reporting my brother." C: "They wouldn't have believed me without any evidence." S: "They wouldn't have believed most girls. But your word is not worth the same as the others. You're rich, the daughter of a marchioness. That is also "fucking reality". If you had gone to the police, Nano would be behind bars now. You didn't do it because of me." C: "And you also beat your own brother to death because of me. Maybe we should stop doing things for one another Samuel. We should leave it." S: "What happened wasn't your fault." C: "Well, I'm always there when something bad happens." S: "It's not." C: "What if it is?" S: "It's not." C: "How do you know?"

There he goes again, reminding me why I have to keep up with this. He got inside the car with me to continue our conversation privately.

S: "I just know. I look at you and I know you don't want to harm anyone."

Deep down I want to believe him. I leaned my head on the seat of the car. Gazing at him. Wondering why this can't be just normal? Why can't we just be together? This situation with the both of us in a car could be different.

C: "Sure. You've been pussy-whipped. I often have that effect on guys." S: "Not on me. What if we just go with it?"

Then we kissed and things happened again.

S: "Weren't we going to leave this?" C: "We're leaving it. Little by little." S: "For someone that's leaving it, you look very turned on." C: "Rich kid stuff."

A couple of days later, I went to school like the usual. Going to my locker and getting my books then walking towards the classroom. When all of a sudden Polo leans back from his seat and talked to me about Samuel. Polo noticing my real feelings for him could get him into trouble. So I denied it. Till I got a text from Samuel.

S: "I want to see you after class, in the classroom."

I turned to him after reading it and gave him a nod. He smiled a little like he was nervous about something.

After class, I immediately went back to my locker and placed my things back into place before meeting Samuel. While walking I tried to wonder again. What if Samuel and I just go with it? Push through with a relationship? That is if he wants to and he feels the same way about me. But these couple of days have been good. Suddenly I remember staying the night at his apartment eating his reheated macaroni. But then one thing lead to another. But we had fun that night. We weren't doing it for the sake of anything else. Earlier that day I got into an argument with him about us not going anywhere with our relationship as a result of me trying to push him away. But really all I want is for him to fight for me. To argue that we should be together. But he said that maybe we should call it quits. A few minutes later I arrive at the classroom and see him alone. waiting for me. I walked inside and made my presence known.

C: "What a time to meet? It looks like we're alone." S: "That was the idea."

Leaning in with a smile on my face i placed my hand on his cheek to kiss him but he avoided, then I knew something was up. Could it be that he's worried about Polo? Did he notice the we talked earlier or did he hear what lie I told Polo?

S: Why did Polo change the night of the party? C: He threw up on himself. S: He put on Christian's shirt. C: He had the same one Samuel. They both bought the same one when we went shopping one day.

This again? I thought he dropped this. Just like that everything that I pondered about earlier gone.

S: It sounds as though you had your answers prepared in advance. C: You are so predictable. S: Don't lie to me Carla.

I'm sorry Samuel but I have to. In order to protect you. I love you too much and it would kill me if you end up like Christian, or worse if you die. I have to keep up with this lie. I tried my best to keep my bitch face up so he doesn't know i'm crumbling inside. Please Samuel just drop it.

S: You are covering for a murderer. C: I don't know what you think you're going to achieve with your questions. You've been at it for weeks and you've gotten nowhere and you're not going to. S: Why are you being like this? C: I'm not being like anything. I'm tired of this.

I tried to walk out of the room but he pulled my arm and now we're standing face to face.

S: Why are you being like this?

I can feel his grip tighten on my arms.

C: Let go of me. S: Why Carla?

I couldn't help it. I bursted out into tears.

C: Because I don't want you to end up like Christian. Because I'm afraid that what can happen to you might be worse. I don't want anything to happen to you.

My tears started to falling and as I let my emotions out it's hard for me to stop. His grip loosened and he held my face to wipe my tears.

S: I'm sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you.

That angry tension he had turned to care and he wrapped his arm around me and I buried my face to his warm chest.

C: Please just drop this issue. I don't know what i'll do if anything happens to you. S: Carla I'm sorry but I can't just let this go. Guzman needs to heal, Christian and Marina deserves justice and my brother doesn't deserve to go to jail. C: I know that.

I didn't know what else to say to make him back down. But one thing became clear to me. As long as he keeps this up, We can't be together. We stayed like this for a couple of minutes till I gather myself.

C: As long as you keep up with this, we can't be together. S: You don't think I know that? This is why I'm digging as fast as i can. So I can be with you without all this bullshit around us.

We tried to be civil and got out of the school, I immediately went inside my car after I kissed Samuel goodbye.

The next day. I slept in since it's the weekend and my father told me that Samuel went to the police with a recording of me. I was almost fuming that time during breakfast and as soon as my father left for work I changed and rushed to Samuels' apartment.

Samuel

After school I went to the police station to try and convince the detective in charge that Carla knows something about Marina's death. But she didn't believe me and said that it's not enough evidence. So I went home and slept on it. The following day I was still pissed at what the police told me. I was just sitting in silence while thinking things over when a knock on my door pulled me back to reality. I opened to see a pissed off Carla. Ofcourse she knows I tried to report her as an accessory to murder.

S: What do you want?

She went inside and intentionally bumped my shoulder as I slammed the door. She turned around to face me to my shock I received a hard slap.

S: Right. C: Your phone. S: What for? C: It's the only way of knowing that you're not recording me. S: It doesn't matter. I could get a confession from you saying that you killed Marina with your own hands, and they'd tell me the same shit. That you don't fit the profile. C: That's the way the world works, in case you hadn't noticed, you idiot. S: Why are you so angry? C: You tricked me. S: You've been tricking me from the start. C: And don't you hate me for that? S: No. Anyway that's it. You won. Congrats. C: No. We have both lost. S: What have you lost? C: You.

Her declaration of this caught me off guard. As she walked across the room and I slowly walked towards her as she continues.

C: For a moment, I started to believe something could happen between us. Something real. C: That we could trust one another, go out to dinner like everyone else, without having to hide everytime. Although, now and then, we'd stay here so you could make me your macaroni. Which by the way is disgusting.

How can I trust her? Yes it's true I have fallen for her. But right now do I completely forget about everything and just be with her? She sounds so believable right now.

C: I don't know, I even thought for a moment that we could forget about all this shit and that we could have a future. How stupid of me huh?

I reached her side as she stopped talking. I turned to her and now we're face to face. As close as we always are. Our foreheads touched and I kissed her. As if she was taken aback, she was frozen for a second but she responded. Her arms wrapped around my neck and my hands on her cheek and waist as we continue our kiss. This time it wasn't about sex. We didn't have that urge to tear each others clothes off. We're just enjoying the moment. Very slowly we both pulled away.

S: You're not stupid for thinking that. At this point I really don't know how to believe you. But deep inside I do. Carla I want to be with you.

Her face immediately lit up when I told her I wanted to be with her.

S: I've wondered the same thing. I just didn't know how to say it, knowing you might reject me. I thought this was just a game for you. C: it was. We both started this with different intentions. But look at what happened now. We both want different things now. So i'm asking you right now, Do you want me enough to start something new with me? To be with me?

I stared at her eyes and I know she's longing for me to say yes. Instead of answering I kissed her again and pulled away quickly. Out of knowhere I kneeled in front of her and she was left with confusion.

S: Carla, I know we came from different worlds. We started off playing around and being together for all the wrong reasons. We fooled around like nothing but slowly we got to know each other. Now I want nothing more than to be with you. I want to be the person who you want to tell everything about, the one who's with you through good and bad times. The one you want to talk to before you sleep and when you wake up. The one you want to be with always and the only one you want to love. In my mind I still doubt you, but my heart says I should trust you completely, which is what I am doing now. This is not a marriage proposal. yet. But maybe in the future, it is. But for now, will you be my girlfriend? No more lies, no more secrets. Just us being together.

The confusion on her face was now replaced with happiness, with tears as she nodded yes and pulled me back up and kissed me again. I quickly pulled away to ask her something.

S: but is my macaroni really disgusting? C: Yeah. But don't worry we'll learn it together.

Then went back to kissing. Like earlier the sexual tension was very minimal. We sat on the couch with her head on my chest. Holding hands while we started this the right way. We were taking turns on getting to know each other. It was nice. Like all the noise from outside began to fade and the only thing we both can hear is ourselves. Lying on this couch with Carla feels so familiar. Like she's someone that I've known my entire life and just being with her, it's just natural.

Carla

Being with Samuel right now feels like it's what I've been missing my entire life. I can't really explain it. I've never been more comfortable with a person before. All the walls that I've kept up all these years, they don't exist when it comes to him. I can freely let go of my guard and let him see me even when I'm vulnerable.

S: When did you first realize that what we have could be real?

That question came as a surprise. But I didn't need to worry about it.

C: That night at the club when you tried to steal my phone. S: How? I was almost angry at you that time. C: I know. But when you confronted me in the bathroom, I didn't feel the need to be on guard with my emotions. I felt that I was fine to let you see me vulnerable. Not to runaway because of what you're accusing me of. But that's just what I felt. S: And I felt sorry after that. I didn't want to keep pushing you. C: So why did you? S: I guess, what Rebeka said was right. After the first night we had at the club, I wanted to keep on digging so I can prove to myself that you're innocent. C: That first night in the bar. When we had sex, it was also the first time in a long time that I really felt pleasure. S: What do you mean by that? you've had sex with Christian and Polo. C: Yeah. I did. But it was nothing like how you made me feel. I didn't enjoy it. S: Wait, are you sure you're not just with me because of the sex? C: The sex is just an added bonus. I'm with you because I-

I cut off mid sentence. Thinking twice, thrice and couple more time if I should say those words.

S: Because you what? I know I'm with you because I love you. Not because of your money. But because I just do.

It is safe to say it.

C: I'm with you because I also love you. But the sex is one of the reasons.

I joke to him and he smiled.

C: I told you that we're going nowhere when we're clothed. Remember? S: Yeah I agreed and then you walked out on me. C: This situation right now shows us how wrong we are. We're actually better with our clothes on. And I walked out because you agreed. S: You wanted to call it quits. And I thought you went here because you wanted to end it to get back together with Polo. C: I know you saw us. But he was trying to get back together with me, and I didn't want to. I can't reason with him and all of a sudden he kissed me. Which was what you saw. The moment I saw you I pushed him, when I turned to the door again you were gone. S: At that time I was confused. Asking myself why I felt jealous and betrayed when we're nothing to each other. C: Now you don't have to ask why. Cause I'm yours. Only yours. S: But why did you walked out on me when I agreed to call it quits? I was getting ready to fight and feed you.

He said while smiling.

C: I wanted you to argue with me why I shouldn't call it quits. I tried to kiss you and urge you to fight me. But as you know I failed because you pulled away. S: I wanted to feed you my disgusting macaroni.

I let out a chuckle. He's not gonna let that go anytime soon. I need him to learn how to properly cook.

C: In some ways, your disgusting macaroni is the reason why this almost never happened. S: But all jokes aside. Are you really sure that you want to be with me?

I kissed him on the lips to reassure him.

C: I'm a thousand percent sure. You're literally the only person who can defy me and I'll never feel offended by it. And you're the only person who sees past my walls and understands. You care for me. Made me feel loved. What about you? Are you sure you want to be with me? S: Yes. I am. I'm sure that I love you. That I want to be with you. C: That's it? No reasons? S: I can't explain it. But then again there's no specific reasons when it comes to love. But if you really want to hear some then, I love you because despite the fact that I don't have a lot of money, you still chose to be with me. I came from a family with a lot of bad history and you still love me. You forgave me for that fact that I approached you for a reason and tried to use you to get justice.

At this point I felt tears slowly sliding down on my cheeks. He noticed it and wiped the tears from my cheek. I held on to his face and kissed him. How can I fall for someone like him? I feel like I don't deserve him at all. But despite everything he chose to love me. Me and not that slut Rebeka.

C: So can we go to school tomorrow like how normal couples do? S: Like how? C: Have you not have any girlfriend before? S: I - Let's talk about that some other time. But really tell me and I'll do it, Willingly. C: Fine. But you have to tell me that some time. S: I promise you. C: We can go to school together. Holding hands just us being us. S: If that's what you want then okay. But why? C: So every girl in the school knows that you're no longer available. By every girl I mean Rebeca. S: What? Why? C: She has feelings for you. Don't you see it? or atleast feel it when you guys are hanging out? S: I honestly don't. I see Rebeca as a friend. Nothing more, nothing less. But fine, let's do it. So every guy can also see that you're mine. C: I can imagine you being the jealous type. S: Don't you dare regret your decision. I'm very possesive. What's mine is mine. Okay? C: Okay. But so do I. I get jealous very easily. So if I even see that Rebeca touch you, oh I'm gonna lose it. S: If I see any guy touch my baby I'll punch them.

"My baby"? Hearing him say that I think made me blush. We're starting to be a normal couple now and I hope this continues for a long time. I can't go back to how we were before this. It would kill me.

C: Your baby? Fine, is that how we'll call each other? S: You want that as our term of endearment Baby? or Babe? C: I like babe better as a name. but if we're teasing Baby is fine too. With that being said, I need you to promise me something. S: What? C: Please don't break up with me. In any case if you hear or find something out that concerns or involves me, talk to me about it first. S: I can't promise anything. But I'll try my best to do that. I won't break up with you. Even if you push me away. Even if you go far away, or if we lost contact. I won't break up with you, not until I hear you say that you don't love me anymore. But we have to agree on something. C: I'll hold you to that. So what is it? S: When we're inside the classroom, can we atleast text? C: That's easy. What else? S: If we're not together, we should always check on each other. Call or text no matter what. C: Okay then, How about every weekend we spend it together? S: I like the sound of that. At my place? C: Can be. or at my apartment. S: You mean your house? C: No, I mean my apartment that no one knows about. S: You can get away with that? C: When I turned 15, I wanted a place of my own. Some place where I don't have to deal with other bullshits and just have a peace of mind. So as my 16th birthday gift. I asked my parents to give me money to buy an apartment of my own. And we agreed that I'll spend friday nights and weekends there. and that they cannot go there unless I ask them to. S: That sounds good. But who else knows about your apartment? C: Just my parents. Me, and now you. S: not even Polo? C: He was one of the reasons why I wanted to have a place where I can find peace. Being with him for a long time kind of suffocated me. S: Then your place it is. As long as you're comfortable with it, I'm good.

We continued talking and talking that we didn't notice the time. While still lying on the couch with my head on his chest, his arm wrapped around me, holding hands and my hand wrapped on his waist. We stayed like this for how many hours and we still don't run out of things to talk about until the both of us just passed out.

(The Next Morning)

I woke up to the sound of my alarm. I always wake up hours early just so I can get ready. But this morning I took time to gaze at Samuel who was still asleep. I slowly and carefully escaped from his hug. If I were to be honest, I would've just skipped today and continue to lay beside him all day. I immediately went down to my car and grabbed an extra set of uniform. I always keep one handy just in case. I went back to his apartment and he's still asleep. I hung my uniform beside his. I walked towards the kitchen and prepared breakfast for the both of us. While I was preparing some fried rice I felt someone hug me from behind.

S: Good morning. I thought you left. C: I'm not leaving. we're going to school together today, remember? S: How could I forget? But what about your uniform? C: You didn't notice it hanging beside yours?

He quickly turned to see it and let out a chuckle.

S: Where did that come from? Did you plan all of this? C: No, I just always keep a spare change of clothes and a pair of uniform just in case. And this, is a just in case type of situation. S: Okay, okay. So you haven't showered yet? C: I was waiting for you.

I openly flirt with him.

S: Right. I could get used to this. C: Get used to us living together? you might get sick of me. S: I'll never get sick of you.

Samuel

Carla made an effort to cook breakfast for us. I have to admit she is a much better cook that I am.

S: You never fail to surprise me. You cook better than me. C: Oh please. As if anyone could mess up cooking fried rice and eggs. S: Come on. We have to get ready. Leave the dishes I'll do them later. C: When? When you come home? S: Babe, come on. We both know you're beautiful even without make up. I do hope you go to school without. But you will still wear make up. So while you get ready, I'll clean up here. C: Fine by me. Call me babe again. S: Come on BABE, we have to get ready.

After finishing up we went to the shower. I was quite ashamed because i'm sure she's used to having a bath tub. But all I have is a shower. But that didn't stop us from doing it. A few minutes later we got out of the shower and I put on my pants and shirt before washing the dishes. As promised to Carla earlier that I would wash this up while she's preparing. I put on my headphones while doing the dishes and then I started to sing a little.

As I finished the dishes Carla gave me a backhug. I turned around not stopping from singing and serenaded her instead. I can see her sweet smile as she just stared at me. Slowly she took off my headphones and gave me a quick kiss.

C: We need to hurry up or we'll be late. S: What do you mean late? We still have an hour and a half. It only takes me 20 minutes to get from here to school that's walking. C: Too many explanations. I plan to announce us to our friends.

Oh so that's why. Honestly I don't mind. Carla pulled me closer to her as she placed my necktie along my neck.

C: Can I tie this for you? S: Yes please. I think I've been doing that wrong all this time.

I let out a small chuckle while her smile still hasn't faded.

C: Babe, you got it right. I just want to do this things for you.

I just stared at her as I tuck her hair behind her ear.

S: I forgot the payment for my necktie.

Then I gave her a sweet kiss.

C: I should tie that for you everyday. S: Maybe you should. Now come on. Let's go to school and shout to everyone that I have a baby now and her name is Carla Rosón Caleruega. C: Funny I was gonna brag that I'm engaged to Samuel García Domínguez.

Even though it sounds like a joke, we were half kidding. To some people maybe, joking about being engaged or marriage is sensitive. Not to us.

(30 Minutes later)

We arrived at Las Encinas. But the parking lot was still empty and there were only a few students coming in. Probably because it's too early. you can't really blame us for being this excited. So we decided to stay inside the car and just talk and kiss and makeout. A few minutes later we agreed to go in. Students were also starting to arrive. I opened the car door quickly and ran to her side to open the car door for her. But I was a couple of seconds late.

S: I wanted to be chivalrous.

I said while pouting.

C: Babe, those little things, I don't need those. But what I do like is that, you hold my hand and don't let go.

She's right. Those type of things are regularly done to her either by her driver or maybe an ex. But doesn't matter. I smiled at her and held her hand.

S: Always. I'll never let go. I love you.

We leaned in to kiss as she said it back and we walked in to the school. As routine goes, we both went to our respective lockers. I hurriedly grabbed my things and went to her locker. Hers was closer to our classroom. I slowly walked towards her and gave her another back hug. It's fun not hiding our feelings. She held my face and kissed my forehead whilst not letting go of our position.

Lu: What is the meaning of this?

Lu said on the side of Carla.

C: Ah finally someone we know. We're together. Officially.

Lu's face looks a little confused and pissed at the same time. But then it turned to happiness.

Lu: Finally. I'm so happy for the both of you. Beca: What is happening? Why are you so happy Lu?

Just like that Lu became quiet. And the 3 of us we just stayed quiet but Carla broke the silence. She turned around without letting me go. But this time I placed my arms around her and her arm on my waist.

C: Samuel and I are dating. And I'm not just saying this to annoy you. I'm saying this because it's real.

Rebeca's face was on the verge of bursting out of anger. Maybe Carla was right, she does have feelings for me. But I don't really care about it right now. I don't feel the same way about her. I love Carla. That's it. Before Rebeca even say another word, Guzman came in along with Ander.

Guzman: So you both finally decided to be together. Well we're happy for you.

Everyone congratulated us except for Beca who just walked away silently. As we walked inside the classroom, We sat beside each other still not letting go of her hand. While waiting for our teacher to arrive, Carla leaned her head on my shoulder.

S: It's kind of refreshing to me that you're sitting beside me in class. C: Well get used to it. Unless you think you might get tired of me. S: Now that will never happen.

We both smiled at each other.

S: But there goes my fantasy of watching you smile at my texts. C: So you'd rather see me smile than to hold my hand?

She said while smiling.

S: Hmmm yes. Just kidding, I prefer sitting beside you, while holding you hand. At least in between classes I get to kiss you. C: You're getting better at thinking about us in the future. S: Well I kind of have to. I'm the type who dates because I think I have a future with the person that I love.

Again we both we're just smiling at each other like we're the only two people in the world. I stood up to go the the comfort room but then she pulled me slightly.

C: Where are you going? S: To the bathroom. C: Rebeca went out. S: Babe, the boys bathroom is in the other way. If you want to make sure I'm not going out to talk to her, why don't you come with? C: No, it's fine. I trust you.

I gave her a quick kiss before leaving. A few minutes later as I was walking near the classroom door, i pulled out my phone and texted Carla.

[S: I love you. Only you Carla Rosón Caleruega. :Heart Eyes: :Red Heart: :Kiss:]

As expected she was looking at her phone when I got near our table and I quietly sat beside her.

[C: I love you more Samuel García Domínguez :Kiss::Kiss::Kiss:]

S: Aren't we the cringiest couple? C: That we are. But we both wanted this.

A few minutes later the class started. We were still holding hands secretly. This class rarely has a recitation so we both didn't need to let go. After class Lu joined us for lunch along with the others and an unhappy Polo.

Lu: So I'm guessing Samuel is now your date for my party later? C: Yes he is.

As soon as I nodded, Lu got her phone out and sent me an invitation.

Lu: It's a formal attire Samu. S: Hey, I have a formal attire. C: Yeah no. We're going shopping babe. Lu: Babe? Look at Carla. This is why I'm genuinely happy for the both of you. Guzman: yeah, who knew someone can warm up the Ice Queen. S: Hey my baby isn't an Ice queen.

Everyone teased us for being this sweet but I didn't mind.

As we got out of the school, Carla and I went shopping for my suit. She picked a light gray jacket and pants that I paired with a black tie and white shirt. After shopping, we went by her apartment to get ready.

At the party, Guzman was starting to get anxious. As if he's really starting to believe me. But I got a text saying that some thugs were looking for me and a few of my neighbors took care of it. I'm guessing it was Beca's mom who they're after.

S: Babe sorry but I have to go. Someone is looking for me at my apartment. C: Are you sure you don't want me to come with you? S: I'm sure. I'll call you if I can go back. Just stay here. For Lu. C: Okay. Promise me you'd call. S: I promise. I love you. C: I love you more.

I kissed her goodbye before leaving.

Carla

As soon as Samuel left, I felt something heavy on my chest. I can feel my father's eyes on me.

C Father: I thought that Samuel was nobody? C: He's not a nobody Papa. I love him. C Father: No. I want you to break up with him. C: I won't. Why can't you just be happy for me? I'm in a relationship with someone that I actually love. C Father: If that's what you want then.

A few hours later I was at the mansion and I see my father in a call. With our conversation earlier, i can't help but worry about Samuel. He promised he'd call me, but so far none. I kept on texting him but he's not reading it. I tried to call him but no answer. Once again I was starting to crumble. I just got him. He can't leave me.

/* Samuel was riding his bike in the dark and in the woods as an SUV was chasing after him. Not too long it got caught and he was ran over. His bike was bent as it was no longer rideable. Samuel recovered from the fall he had and is now running away from the guys chasing him. */

I woke up with that dream. What if that really happened? No I can't think like that. I can't bear the thought of losing him and not seeing him again. I got inside the school and checked my phone to see if there is any message from him. Still nothing. He hasn't even read my messages. The police were starting to investigate and in their words, every minute counts. As we publicly announced our relationship, I became the first person to be interogated.

Police: I understand that you two are in a relationship. So when was the last time you spoke to him. C: At Lu's party. We came together but he got a text from his neighbor saying that there are people looking for him at his apartment. Police: Okay and then what happened? C: He told me he's gonna check on his place to find out who it was. He promised to call, but he never did. Police: Do you have any suspicions as to who could've done this? C: No, I don't. Please we have to find him. Police: We will.

After that, the following days just got worse. It's been almost 4 days and people are starting to assume that he's dead. Myself included. Some of our friends helped with the search and found his school jacket stained with blood. The police confirmed that it was his. But until the week is up, they will still file him as a missing person but not dead. At this point, I'm ready to give everything up to the police. As I did. But I know that this is my father's doing.

A few hours later I was inside the precint talking to the detective incharge about what I know behind Marina's death. That it was Polo who killed her. Before the Detective and I finish my confession, we got the news that Samuel is alive and is right now being debriefed. My heart felt a heavy lift off it. He's alive. That's what matters. But he played me to get a confession.

As soon as the interrogation was over I went out and saw Samuel. Beaten up, with wounds around his face. A taped up hand. But he already got cleaned up. He turned his head to face me and started walking towards me and hugged me. It was the most familiar feeling in the world, but I was still mad at him that I pushed him back.

C: Congratulations. You won. You played me. S: What are you talking about? C: You have to go through all that to get me to confess? I thought you were dead!

Samuel pulled me out of the precint as we talked outside.

S: What do you mean you confessed? Confessed to what? C: Don't play dumb. I know you know that Polo killed Marina. S: Polo did what? I thought you were in there because the police are still trying to find me. C: Stop lying to me. I'm not an idiot. I know what my father did. He tried to kill you. S: Neither am I. It's not your father who ran me over. I didn't play you to get a confession. I let that go, remember? C: You're lying. I know you're just lying. S: I promised to call you didn't I? But I couldn't cause I got beat up by some thugs who were trying to find Rebeca's mom through me. C: No, I don't believe you. S: I didn't mean for you to think that I died. But your father had nothing to do with this. I couldn't answer any of your calls because I was out for 3 days. The jacket with my blood on it was due to the torture they did to me. C: I don't know how to believe you.

He held my hand as I started to cry out and I just wrapped my arms around him.

C: I thought you were dead. I thought I lost you. S: I made a promise to never leave you right? You won't get rid of me that easily.

I pulled back from our hug and just kissed him. For days, I longed for this. But now he's here with me.

S: But did you really confess about who killed Marina? C: Yes. And I don't regret it. S: What to do? I've fallen for you all over again. C: Why cause you've proven I have a conscience? S: No, because you've proven that you are the girl that I fell in love with. Not the facade that everyone sees.

I brought my car because I wanted to stay at my apartment for a while. I'm getting tired of facing both the problems with my parents and school. But now I just want to stay there because I want to be with him.

C: Will you mother mind if we stay at my place for a while? S: No, she's going back to Nano for now. C: Then can we please go now? S: I have to pick up some clothes before we settle in there.

We arrived at his place, his mother rode with us. She was very welcoming with me. She kept on saying thank you for loving Samuel even though he's not from the same social status as me. But I also thanked her for raising him. Without Samuel, I'd probably still be what Guzman calls me. An Ice Queen. The next day his mom is going to where Nano is. We both kept on insisting that we drop her off to the station but she refuses to. So we let her stay the night at their apartment and so did we. It feels good to have Samuel back.

When we woke up, his mom has just finished cooking breakfast. I noticed that she already has a bag ready and is just waiting to finish breakfast before leaving. After lunch Samuel started packing his bags so that we could both stay at my apartment. Staring at him now, I can see that he's also trying to put up a facade. So that I don't have to worry about him. But that's what girlfriends do right? Worry about the one they love? His wounds were still there. I hope that this doesn't change him for the worst.

S: Hey, you look lost in your thought. What's up? C: Do you still feel the same about - S: Yes. What happened to me these past couple of days had nothing to do with you. Don't worry. C: It's kind of my job to be. S: What do you mean by that? C: I'm your girlfriend right? So if I worry about you, that's normal. S: I know. I'm sorry, it's just that this is all very new to me. C: Someone who is not your family caring and worrying about you? S: No. The fact that I have a girlfriend. C: Don't tell me I'm your first girlfriend.

He just smiled. Where has this guy been all this time? How come he never had a girlfriend before.

S: It's not that. I meant that this is my first real relationship. C: Okay. So is this what you didn't told me about yet? S: Yeah. It was a really fucked up situation and I just don't want you to judge me on this. C: After everything? S: Fine. She was Nano's girlfriend while he was in jail. After he got sent to prison, she started to come over here often to check up on me. and then one night, we both got drunk and something happened. I thought it was gonna be a one time thing, but it repeated. Until we heard that Nano's getting out and I'm tranferring to Las Encinas. We ended it. She broke up with Nano when he got sent to prison again. Last week she tried to get back together with me. C: So is she the one who took your virginity? S: When I was 13. C: But why is it that she wants to get back together with you? S: I don't know. I told her off. I said I'm in a real relationship now. What I felt for her was just physical. Nothing else. C: Good. Aren't we a dysfunctional couple. S: You're not mad? C: Babe, I covered up for a murderer, and you cheated behind your brother's back. What I did was worse. S: These past few days, I missed hearing that.

He said while wrapping his arms around my waist. I did the same by wrapping my arm around his neck and my hand on his cheek.

C: Then you should prepare. Cause you're gonna hear that a lot from me now. S: Oh yeah? Then we better get going.

We kissed again. But this time, longer.

C: I'm just so happy you're alive. S: I am too. Thinking about you is what kept me going. Now here I am. With you, in your arms. C: And I'll never let go. Never.

After a while we got into my apartment and we both started unpacking. I made it a point to keep things stocked up in here. So whenever i stay here, I don't have to go out anymore. While we were in the car earlier we both agreed to cook macaroni for dinner. But I won't let him cook alone. So as he was unpacking, I was also preparing the ingredients for what we'll be cooking. A few minutes later Samuel was already in the kitchen boiling the pasta while I was incharge of cooking the sauce.

S: Awww babe come on, I want to try to cook again for you. C: You can do that some other time. But for now, we can try mine. S: I'm sure that will put my sauce to shame. C: I'll still eat your macaroni deliciously. I'd prefer that than a five-star food any day. S: You're just saying that cause you haven't gotten bored with me yet. C: I'll never get bored or tired of you.

A couple of minutes later we were done cooking. Samuel was setting the table while I opened the wine and poured some on our glasses. We were gonna eat at the living room while watching this romance movie that i've been dreading to watch for a long time now. After a few days this has been first time that we felt like we could go back to normal. After we finished eating Samuel insisted on washing the dishes and I let him. When I went to the kitchen he was talking to someone on his phone. I walked silently and then he hanged up as soon as I got close to him.

C: Who was that? S: My mother. She says that she just arrived to where Nano is. C: That's good right? S: Yeah. Come on. Let's go to bed, we have school tomorrow remember?

Sounds like something is bothering him. He walked past but I pulled him back.

C: You said no more secrets. Come on, what's bothering you? S: Nothing. I just feel tired, that's all. C: Tell me whenever you're ready.

He nodded then kissed me before we went into the bedroom. We laid there in each others arms as we fell asleep comfortably for the first time in a while.

Samuel

Carla was fast asleep on my arms. But I kept on thinking about how my mother wants me to follow her in Morocco with her and Nano. I can't. I want to be here with Carla. My mother doesn't understand that I don't want to run for the rest of my life. I need to stay here and try to fix things. not just because of Carla. She kept on insisting that this thing that we have right now won't last. Whether this will last or not, the important thing for me is that I get to see her and protect her. Even if I can only do that from a distance. I turned to Carla who was still sleeping soundly then kissed her forehead before closing my eyes to try and sleep.

A couple of hours later, I woke up a few minutes earlier than her alarm. I opened her phone and turned off her alarm for now. I wanted to cook breakfast for her as a way of apologizing for the way I treated her last night. Which was a little cold.

After I finished cooking, I went back to the bedroom and saw that she was still sleeping soundly. I walked towards her and kissed her on the lips to wake her up and a few kisses later she finally responded to one.

S: Good morning. Come on. Breakfast is ready. C: Is this how you're gonna wake me up from now on? S: If you want to, then yes. C: You cooked breakfast? S: yeah. I wanted to apologize for being a little cold to you last night. C: You don't have to do that. S: But I want to. So come on, before it gets cold.

She teased that she's still sleepy and that she needs another kiss but instead I picked her up bridal style and sat her at the dinner table.

C: you know that I'd rather have you for breakfast. S: but if we do that, we will both be late.

After we finished our breakfast she went on and had a shower. At first she was joking if I should join her but I also joked the if she wants to I can, but we won't be able to go to class anymore. While we were in the car, we were both talking like old times. Going to school together again. She went on to her locker as did I. As I was about to finish closing my locker, Guzman pulled me to the side and talk about Polo.

Guzman: you have to talk to Carla. She can't retract her statement. S: and you have to talk to Ander. Guzman: What the hell is been bothering you? S: My mother wants me to leave here and go with them. Guzman: Are you seriously considering that? S: I'm not thinking about leaving everything here and joining them.

Guzman and I suddenly heard something. Was someone listening to us?

S: I'll see you in class. I have to find Carla.

I left Guzman and immediately went to Carla's locker. But she wasn't there. Only her locker key. I took it out and heard her talking on the phone inside an empty classroom. I opened the door slightly and saw a pissed off Carla. Her mood didn't change even when she saw me.

S: I was looking for you. You left your locker key.

She just took it forcefully but I couldn't let that happen. Before she could even pass by I grabbed her hand.

S: What's wrong? Who got you in that mood? C: I don't know. You tell me. Leaving me so soon.

I was left speechless as she left the room. It was her who was listening to me and Guzman earlier. But she didn't hear everything because if she did, then she would've heard that I'm not even considering it. The school bell rang which pulled me back to reality as I went inside the classroom. I sat beside her and she was nothing but cold and quiet. I can still feel that she's pissed at something.

S: What happened? Why are you so angry right now? C: Nothing. It's Polo who called, he wants me to tell the police that I lied. Guzman: That hijo de puta. He killed my sister and now he wants everything to go away.

I tried to hold her hand but she wouldn't let me.

Carla

I thought I heard Samuel walking towards me but Guzman pulled him inside an empty classroom. Slowly I approached the room and I overheard a part of their conversation. I heard Samuel saying that he's thinking about leaving everything and joining his mom and Nano wherever they are. He's thinking about leaving me? That fast? After everything. Is that why he was so cold to me last night? I bumped the door as I rushed to leave there. Then Polo called me and my anger just rose to another level.

I walked really fast in to another empty classroom and answered his call.

C: What the hell do you want? Polo: I spent Christmas in a juvenile detention center. How about you? Happily playing house with Samuel are you? C: Yeah, I had a great fucking time watching my parents' marriage go to shit. Do you think it was easy for me? Polo: We could go back to the way it was, all you need to say is you made it up-- C: The way it was? I used to live in fear of someone finding out what happened. The times that I to lied to Samuel because I was protecting a murderer? I'm happy now with him, someone who actually loves me for me and not just because i'm a fucking trophy. So I don't want to go back to that. Polo: Listen to me -- C: I'm going to tell the truth, but I'll give you the chance to do it first. If you confess, you'll get a reduced sentence, and we'll put an end to this.

I hung up on him after that just in time for Samuel to walk in while holding my locker key. I must've left it earlier when I eavesdropped on their conversation earlier.

S: I was looking for you. You left your locker key.

I tried to snatch my locker key from him, but I know he feels that something is wrong. What's wrong is that aside from Polo calling just a few minutes ago, is that I heard that my boyfriend is thinking of leaving me. What hurts the most is that it's not just anyone asking him, it's his family. That's why it hurts. Knowing full well that there is a big chance that he'll choose them over me.

S: What's wrong? Who got you in that mood? C: I don't know. You tell me. Leaving me so soon.

I went to the classroom after that. I got there before him and a few minutes later he also walks in with a worried look on his face while looking at me. He still sat beside me and tried to hold my hand. But I was still angry.

After class I texted him that I'm going home to the mansion for today and left without personally telling him anything.

A few hours after I arrived at the mansion, I overheard my father. Walking down the stairs he noticed me and we had that unwanted conversation. He wants me to lie in court or else our family business could go under. If it was just me i'd never be startled or I wouldn't even think twice, but he also threatened my mom.

The next day I was in school, once again I was in front of my locker but the damn thing won't open. I started to hit the locker door and then hit my hand when all of a sudden he was beside me. He grabbed my hand and started massaging the part that hit the key. I felt like just crying infront of him but I was still a little mad at him about what I overheard yesterday.

S: You should be careful. You're starting to hurt yourself. What's going on with you? You didn't talk to me at all last night. Did I do something wrong?

I couldn't answer him cause if I do I know I'll burst into tears. I just held on to his face and let out a bitter smile and left.

Moments later I was staring blankly on my notebook. Cause the idiot that I am left my laptop and book inside my locker along with my key and Samuel. Then he sat beside me quietly and placed my laptop, book and key infront of me without saying anything.

S: Lu, would you switch seats with me?

He asked Lu who's behind me. She was sitting next to Guzman.

Lu: Why? Trouble in paradise?

I was looking at him and I can see him looking hurt from how I'm treating him. Before he could even leave the seat I grabbed his hand.

C: You don't have to. S: If I continue to sit there with you treating me coldly, we might not both be able to focus on the lesson. I'll just be behind you. I'm not going anywhere.

He continued to move seats with Lu leaving both her and Guzman with a confused look.

During lunch time I was accompanied by Lu, Guzman and Ander. Samuel was nowhere to be found. Guzman says that his Mom wanted to talk to him so he had to go home for a moment. The moment that i've been wanting not to happen.

Samuel

S: I can't leave. So, we have to leave as if we've done something wrong, and Nano will have to spend the rest of his life in hiding? No, I won't let them get away with it. We need to find a way-- SMom: To do what? What are you going to do? Fine, I'll stay with you. I won't leave you here alone. S: No. Nano needs you more than I do. And you need to get out of here. I promise the two of you will be able to return soon. SMom: And who will take care of you? Carla? S: Mom, who takes care of whom in this house? I'll be fine right here with Carla. You have to trust her. SMom: Okay. I'll do that.

After my mother left I went back to school. I went straight back to our classroom and a few moments later Carla came in together with Lu, Guzman and Ander. Still seating behind her.

Guzman: hey are you alright? S: yeah i'm fine. Guzman: How'd it go? Is she still asking you to leave?

I tapped Guzman's shoulder and stood up to go to the bathroom. I could feel Carla's gaze following me. When I got inside a cubicle I couldn't help but cry quietly. I don't exactly know how everything is gonna go. Carla isn't talking to me, the hearing is tomorrow. My mother is leaving to be with Nano. I have really no idea how I'll handle everything. I went out and washed my face before going back to the classroom. The principal was giving a speech about how if anyone touches Polo again, they will not graduate. Looking at him with a bruised face. Who did that to him anyway? As I was walking towards my seat, I saw Guzman's fist ready to fire. As if he's a ticking time bomb everytime he see's Polo.

Moments after I settled in to my seat I received text from Carla.

[C: Are you ok? You look like hell.]

I stared at her and at her text still not responding to her message.

[C: I just want to make sure you're okay.] [C: Please, Samuel.]

After her cold treatments, now she's talking to me. I gained the courage to reply to her.

[S: Yeah. I'm fine.]

Staring at her reading my text, she released the phone in her hand and just covered her face with it. After class she immediately went out and I followed her.

S: Carla! Carla!

She wasn't even looking and just walked faster. So I ran and pulled her close to me.

S: How are you? C: How am I? If you were just gonna leave without saying anything then just stay away from me. S: What are you talking about? You think I'm gonna leave you? C: I don't know, why don't you enlighten me? I heard you say to Guzman that you're thinking about leaving everything behind and going with your mother and Nano. And I get it, they're your family. But what about me? S: Slow down. What the hell are you talking about? C: Just leave or I swear I'll hit you right here. S: Listen to me.

Finally Carla calmed down even just for a little bit.

S: So it was you who was eavesdropping the other day. C: Why? Didn't want me to hear it? S: Well you didn't hear the whole thing. C: Then fine. Explain. S: You can ask Guzman. I told him that I DON'T WANT to leave everything behind. and by everything I mean you. I love you.

Her face softened. As if from boiling water to warm.

S: If you need time to be angry at me then just be angry at me. Don't treat me coldly. C: So you'd rather tell that to Guzman than to your girlfriend. What a great lie. S: I'm not lying. I told my mom I'll stay here. With you.

There was a short pause between us. Giving me the chance to pull her someplace private.

As we were alone I stood close to her. and held her face as an attempt to get her to calm down completely.

C: You promised that you weren't going anywhere but it feels like you're going to.

Her tears started to burst out as she said that. The cold ice queen from the past few days now gone as I hugged her tightly.

C: I'm sorry for treating you coldly since yesterday. S: You had a reason to. Sorry I didn't tell you right away. I thought about telling you after the hearing. C: About the hearing, Samuel I have to tell you something. S: What about it? C: My father threatened me that if I tell the truth today, we'd lose everything. And my mom will go to jail. S: I don't know what to say. C: Tell me whatever my decision is that you'll stay with me. Please.

I was silent for a few minutes.

C: Please. Promise me. S: Hey, I promised that I won't go anywhere remember? I intend on keeping it. C: if i tell the truth, I'll lose everything. S: Me, You'll still have me.

I just hugged her right there. I know she's getting stressed out with the hearing. With her parents, especially her dad for putting a pressure on her to not talk or else her mom will be in jail. I can't do anything about that. All I can do is reassure her that I'll be beside her.

C: I have to go home and change. I'll meet you at the courthouse later.

We kissed before she left. It hurts me to see that this all could've been avoided if it weren't for me. She only did that because I was missing and she thought that her father tried to kill me. If only i could turn back time and atleast replied to one of her many texts just so she knows I'm fine, then I would.

I went back to my apartment to change clothes then went to the courthouse the same time as Carla did. She came with her mother as she walked towards me to hug me.

C: I'm sorry Mom. CMom: Darling, all you did is tell the truth. And sometimes, there's a price to pay for that. We might have lost people along the way but whatever happens, we'll always have each other. Carla, I'll always be by your side. Always. What about you Samuel? S: Your mom is right. I'm sorry for putting you in this situation. I wish I could turn back time to avoid this from happening. But whatever you decide, I won't be mad at you. I'll just be with you. You'll always have me. I love you Carla.

And once again she hugged me and thanked her mother for being there.

S: By the way it's nice to meet you Mrs. Caleruega. CMom: Hijo, if you really love my daughter then I support your relationship. Just call me Tia. S: Thank you, Tia.

Carla stared at her mother.

CMom: What? I know you both are stressed out with all these. You both need something positive. And I see you really love each other so I support you. C: Thank you Mom.

After a while we went inside the courtroom. Guzman came to see through the hearing, but for me, I'm just here for Carla now. The judge was asking if there was anything they'd like to say, Polo was starting to sweat and Carla's tears we're ready to fall. I wanted to stand and go there to hug her, to comfort her and let her know it will be okay.

C: I made it all up. I'm sorry.

Her words brought an awful silence throughout the room. Guzman's disappointment. Her mom's expectation. The police in disbelief. But Polo, Cayetana and Polo's parents were relieved.

In my dismay, I just closed my eyes for a brief moment. Let it all sink in. After all, I promised her that whatever happens, whatever she decides to do, I'll still be with her. As I opened my eyes she turned her head to face me and her mother. Tears started to stream down from her face and sorry and guilt that's eating her up surfaced.

C: I was very angry at my father and my ex. My father was always very strict with me. I made this all up to hurt them. But now I realize I've gone too far, and I deeply regret it. I'm sorry for all the pain I've caused. And I hope you can forgive me.

She said that last sentence looking at me. All I could do was smile a little bit and mouth the words "It's okay. I love you.". The only thing that I could do in the moment to reassure her.

The gavel made a loud sound and the judges stood up and left. So did Polo and his parents. They hugged him with a huge weight off their shoulders.

S: I told you to speak to Ander. Guzman: Shut the hell up. Didn't you speak with your girlfriend. If she really loved you, she wouldn't have stabbed you in the back.

I pulled Guzman down to whisper something to him.

S: Carla couldn't speak up, because her dad threatened me and her Mom's life. Even if i'm in the same position, i'd choose the same as her. Guzman: What do you mean by that? S: She said that all their companies signatory was her mom. This won't bring her dad down but her mother will go to jail. Guzman: Then we have to find a plan B. S: I'm sure we can come up with something. Don't tell her you know anything that I told you.

After that Guzman stood up and looked Carla and also gave her a bitter smile.

She was left sitting in the middle of the courtroom so I went beside her.

C: I'm sorry. But I couldn't let my family suffer. S: Shhh. I know. I told you, i'm here whatever your decision is. C: You're not mad at me? S: I'm not mad. A little dissapointed. But we'll find another way to get justice. I'm sure Guzman will also understand. C: I'm sorry. For everything.

Her mom walked towards us also looking dissappointed.

CMom: I'm a little disappointed, but I know you did this for us. I'm sorry if you got caught in the crossfire within our company. C: I'm sorry too mom. CMom: now, you go to your apartment for a while, I'm gonna have some things to fix with your dad and I don't want you to be part of in the meantime. C: Are you sure? CMom: Yes darling. Samuel, will you promise to keep her company? to keep her safe? S: Yes Tia, I promise. Whatever it is, for Carla. CMom: Okay then, I'll leave you two be.

Carla just continued to wrap her arms around me with her face buried on my chest. I can feel that she still feels bad for not telling the truth. Her tears we're still streaming down on her face. I feel my shirt slightly getting wet. But it doesn't matter.

S: Come on. We should go and rest at your apartment.

She let go of our hug and started to walk out of the court room. I catched up to her and wrapped my arm on her shoulder and she responded by wrapping her arm on my waist and her head on my shoulder once again as we walked to her car.

Once we were inside her apartment she sat down on the couch still staring blankly out of nowhere. The entire car ride, she was just quiet while fiddling our hands. She was just staring at that the entire time. I went to the kitchen to grab something to drink for the both of us then went to the couch and sat beside her.

S: Carla. You have to stop thinking about what happened earlier. C: I can't just let it go. Samuel I feel really bad. I want to go back and just tell the truth. S: You can't now. What's more important is that we all know who really did it. Even if you go back to the police, they will doubt your statement. C: What should I do? I need to do something Samuel. S: Right now. You have to calm down. Stop thinking about all that and pull yourself together. We'll find another way to get Polo to confess. One way or another. C: How are you so calm right now? I betrayed you by not telling the truth. S: I was expecting that you won't tell the truth. C: You didn't trust me? S: I did. But I also know that if I were in your shoes at the time and my family is at stake, I would've done the same. C: You're just saying that to make me feel better. S: I'm not. But is it working though?

Finally, she smiled. even just a little. It's the first I've seen it these past few days.

C: I forgot I was gonna give you something. Wait here.

She stood up and went to the bedroom. Not closing the door. a couple of seconds later she went out while holding something in her hand. It was a small black velvet box.

C: I wanted to give you this the night I first acted cold, but I thought it might not be the right time. I thought you were leaving me. S: Before I open this, why did you even think that I was leaving? C: I don't know. Maybe because if I were to make a choice in a circumstance like yours, I would've chose my family. But mine isn't going anywhere. even if they did, I'd be sure to bring you with me.

I just smiled at the thought of that. I immediately leaned in and kissed her.

C: Come on, open the box.

As I opened the box, it revealed a key.

C: Do you like it? S: A key to this apartment? C: Yeah. I wanted to give you that so if ever we can't go here together, you can just come in instead of waiting for me outside. S: Funny that you gave me this. C: Why? Don't you want it? S: No, I do. It's just that I wanted to give you the same thing.

I also gave her a red velvet box that contains a duplicate key of my apartment and a ring.

C: Are you proposing? S: No. At least not yet. C: Then what is this for? S: It's a promise ring. A couple promise ring. C: That's cheesy. But where is yours? S: You've been holding and staring at my hand all afternoon. You didn't notice it?

She immediately looked at my hand and saw me wearing it. I took the ring from the box and slipped it on her finger.

S: Babe, I know we're going through a lot of things, and we'll go through more. But I promise i'll stand by you till the very end. We'll get through everything together. Will you promise me to do the same? C: Don't tell me what to promise.

She said jokingly.

C: But I do promise that I'll also stay with you whatever our problem is, however many things we need to go through. To support you throughout everything. Most importantly, I promise to Love you and only you flaws and all. no matter what S: You trumped mine. Fine, I'll also promise to love you more every single day. Also this key is for my apartment. So if need be, we can also stay there. C: Can we stop saying "my apartment" or "your apartment" and just call it "our apartment"? S: Of course we can. But I have a condition. C: What is? S: When it comes to privacy -- C: Ah, about that we have to know each others passwords. I know it sounds cliche, but -- S: That's what i'm about to say. But we don't check phones or accounts behind each others back. C: That I agree. I love you. S: I love you more. Always. C: it's been a long day we should go to bed now.

We both had a quick shower and went to bed. Once again slept in each other's arm.

Carla

I woke up earlier than usual, I already cooled down since last night. Thanks to his constant reassuring that everything is going to be okay eventually. I just stared at him while he was still sleeping soundly. I want to skip for today. I know Polo will come back officially today, I wasn't ready to see him. I want to just stay here for today and spend the day with Samuel.

S: If you're gonna stare at me longer i'd melt, I'd rather you just give me a morning kiss.

I was kind of startled when he spoke. I thought he was still asleep.

C: Fine. You want a morning kiss.

I forced myself out of his arms and sat on top of him then leaned in to kiss him.

C: Can we skip for today? S: Why? Because of Polo?

I just let out a big sigh. Just hearing his name ruins my mood.

S: hey, we need to go to school. Show him that we're stronger together. That we're not scared or taken aback by the fact the you didn't tell the court about him being a murderer. C: I guess you're right. But still can we skip today?

He sit up and now our foreheads we're touching each other.

S: I wish I can. But i'm on a scholarship remember? C: Right. So that's a no? S: Come on, it's not like I won't be beside you the whole time. C: Fine. Let's go prepare now.

I immediately climbed out of the bed after giving him a quick kiss then went towards the bathroom.

S: Should I join you?

He said still sitting on the bed.

C: If you want to.

He immediately went to the bathroom and we had our shower.

Samuel

Once again, Carla was very tense the entire ride to school. I just held her hands as I drive. But at some point, I think she feels guilt, and is getting nervous because I feel her squeeze my hand.

When we parked infront of the school, she was still hesistant to go out. So I rushed to her side and opened the car door for her.

C: We still have time to back out. Come on let's just skip the day.

She said while letting out a slightly bitter and nervous smile.

S: Nope. Come on, or I'll pick you up.

Carla being stubborn started to get annoyed at me. But she still let out a big sigh.

C: Promise me you won't leave my side today. Literally. S: I won't, I promise. Except ofcourse when you're in the bathroom.

Finally she smiled. I offered her my hand and we waltzed inside the school. As promised I didn't leave her side. So we had to take two stops to get out things from our lockers. When we got inside the classroom, Lu asked if she would sit beside Carla, but she said no need.

Carla started to face me while in her seat. And I stared at her trying to think what she wanted to say. I signaled her if she wanted to talk to Guzman, and she agreed.

S: Guzman, Carla wanted to say something to you. C: I'm sorry if I lied in court. I didn't know what else to do- Guzman: Don't worry about it Carla, you've been through enough. Besides we'll find another way to get Polo for what he did. Lu: Oh my god, so he really did do it. S: Yeah, he did. But we won't let him win that's for sure.

Carla

The day passed by and Samuel kept his promise to be by my side the whole day. If I keep this up he might get tired at me. and I don't want that to happen. Not with him. I was fiddling with his hand as he drives back to our apartment. But I remember earlier while we we're walking along the hallway. I feel like someone is watching us. Not my father but a student.

We arrived at our apartment fast since there was no traffic. We were both getting used to living together. When we were about to cook dinner he received a phone call from Guzman.

S: What? What did you do? Don't fucking do anything. I'm coming over. C: Why what happened? S: It's better if you don't know. C: Babe, we said no more secrets. Come on. S: Guzman fucking kidnapped Polo. I need to -- C: You need to go there now. Use the car. Just message me. Okay? S: I will. I'll see you later. I love you.

I said as I handed him the keys. Why does this day have to be ruined?

I didn't bother to cook anymore. I just reheated the Macaroni that he cooked last night. When I was so out of it. He cooked it on his own.

Samuel

As soon as I dropped the call, Carla talked to me and handed me the car keys. Guzman kidnapped Polo. This was his version of getting him what he deserves? This ruined my night with Carla. What was supposed to be a night for the both of us to just get some normalcy back. I rushed to Guzman's house and he opened the door looking all cool but angry. His shirt was soaking wet from his sweat. He signaled me inside and looked if I was followed. He then led me to a room where Polo was.

Right there, in the middle of a room with the large TV turned on standy. Polo was tight up in a chair with duck tape plastered on his mouth while he was unconsious. I approached him slowly and checked if he still has a pulse. Good thing Guzman hasn't killed him.

A few moments later Guzman came out of the bathroom wringling a wet towel. He wrapped the damped towel around Polo who was still unconcious.

S: Guzman, listen to me. School's out for the day. They'll notice he's missing. We're not exactly-- Guzman: We need him to tell us where the trophy is. If we get the trophy, he'll go to jail. S: How do we make him talk?

He approached a cabinet door and grabbed a long stick.

Guzman: With the towel we won't leave marks.

His fist was clenched and ready to swing and his face boiling with anger.

S: Did you plan this? Guzman: Carla did everything because she thought you were dead. That raised suspicion. But it all went to shit because of her father. So I had no choice but to plan this. Polo! Come on, wake up!

He said while slapping Polo.

You can feel he is furious now. At a rampage to avenge his sister. He slapped Polo for a couple of times again, then stood up to play a video clip on the TV. It was the video Marina and I made together for our project. She was dancing and I remembered how I felt as I took that video. But now I feel the need to stop Guzman from making a big mistake that he will regret for a long time. I was alarmed at the sound of my phone ringing.

Guzman was worried but I assured him by letting him see that it's Carla who's calling. I immediately answered, I know she'll be worried again because I forgot to message her.

C: Where are you? S: I'm at Guzman's house. I'm sorry things aren't good I forgot to update you. C: Are you alright? Did anything happen to you? S: I'm fine. I haven't done anything but stopping Guzman. How about you? C: I'm alright but I miss you. S: I miss you too. I promise to go straight to you once we're finished here. C: I was thinking of staying at the mansion just for the night. S: That's good. You can check up on your mom. C: Yeah. I'll see you tomorrow. I love you. S: I love you more. Message me when you get there. C: Yeah. I will.

Then she hung up.

Guzman: Why didn't you tell her what's happening here? S: The less she knows, the better. This hijo de puta has dragged her through enough. We can handle this one on our own.

As Polo watches, he started to breathe heavily.

Guzman: Tell me where the trophy is. Polo, tell me where the trophy is, and this hell will be over. For you and me. Over for good.

His phone started to ring and it was his mom calling. Guzman told me to put it on silent and I did. Polo still wasn't speaking. Guzman was getting more and more agitated by the second. And then he started hitting Polo with the stick. Both of them now screaming. Polo in pain and Guzman out of anger. I kept on stopping Guzman from hitting Polo.

S: Guzman Stop! Holy Shit.

Polo: Kill me. I didn't want to kill Marina. It was an accident Guzman, It was an accident. But you're doing this to me on purpose. You're capable of killing me.

Just like that he started to hit Polo again. Relentlessly. I had to pull him by force and hug him to snap him back to reality. After a while that he calmed down, I released Polo from being taped on the chair and told him to leave. Right now, they'll probably see him as the victim, not the criminal. But I took his phone without his knowledge and he just left.

After all that shit I decided to go back to my apartment. Carla won't be in ours anyway and I need time to let what happened sink in. Think about what happens next.

I received a text from Carla saying that she arrived safely at the Mansion and I immediately called her.

S: I miss you already. I went to my old apartment for tonight. C: And I also miss you. How is everything?

She sounded worried.

S: Nothing happened to me. But the less you know that better. Can you please just trust me on this one? C: Okay I will. But why didn't you stay at our place? S: I'd only be missing you more. I might just drive and pick you up there. C: So you're saying you don't want to be there without me? S: Partly. One of the reasons is that this is closer to Guzman's and I needed to breathe after that. C: Are you sure you're fine? S: I will be now that I've heard your voice. C: You're learning to flirt with me. that's a good sign. S: Well, I learned from you. So I guess this suits you. C: Well keep that up. S: You deserve to be complimented everyday. C: and you my baby, deserve to know that I love you and only you everyday. S: See, I learned from the best. C: Fine. I love you baby, I'll see you tomorrow at school? S: Yeah. I love you too. I'll never leave you. ever.

Then we hung up. After everything, this is the only normal relationship we can do. no matter how crazy the situation in, I know we'll always have each other.

Carla

A few moments after I dropped the phone call with Samuel I started to walk upstairs and go to my room when all of a sudden my father started to talk to me.

CDad: You're back. Not staying at your apartment now? C: I'm just here for tonight to check up on Mom. I'm going to bed. I'm tired. CDad: One thing, darling. That kid, uhhh, Samuel. He's controlling you. You spoke to the police when you thought he was dead which is very unlike you. C: What? CDad: He's not good for you. It also won't be good for him if I see him near you. C: You're threatening him. Well Samuel and I won't be scared by your threats. He's my boyrfriend and you can't control my life. Not anymore. CDad: I warned you Carla, stay away from him or else - CMom: Or else what? What are you gonna do to the both of them or to Samuel atleast? CDad: Stay out of this. CMom: No, Our daughter deserves to be happy. If you so much as hurt a single hair on Samuel's head. I swear you won't like what you'll get.

After that mom walked out leaving my father with a worried look.

C: Just like mom. You have no idea what i'm capable of Papa. If you so much as touch Samuel, I'll end you and you'll no longer have a daughter. CDad: Everything you have came from me. Even your secret apartment was bought under my name. C: That's where you are wrong papa. Abuelito and Abuelita made your name disappear when we bought that. I own it. It's my name on it. Not yours. Not even Mama's.

The same thing my Mom did. I walked out on him.

The following day, I was relieved to be back at school. My usual routine was to go to my locker and then find Samuel. But I didn't have to find him, just a couple of moments after I opened my locker, I felt someone hug me from behind and I instantly knew it was him.

S: Hey baby, sleepwell? You look tired. C: I think I slept alright. What about you? S: I slept fine. But I missed you last night.

I let out a slightly bitter smile.

S: Somethings wrong. What is it? C: My father threatened you last night. But my mom and I backed you up. S: Don't worry about me. I can handle your father. C: It's my job to be. And I know you can. S: Hey I got to run to my locker. I'll see you in class okay? C: Yeah. I love you. S: I love you too.

Before he could go far I pulled his hand and kissed him.

C: I love you more. Go get your things.

He just smiled after. The widest and most genuine that I've seen on him these past few days.

I turned around and started to walk towards our classroom when all of a sudden someone was calling me, but I didn't recognize his voice.

Yeray: Are you okay? Want me to walk you to your classroom? C: Excuse me? Yeray: Well, I'm here if you need anything. C: Let's see, You kept staring at me in the hallway, you know my class schedule and my name. You've only been here for two minutes, and you're already creeping me out. Yeray: Sorry, I didn't want to make you uncomfortable, but do you really not remember me? C: Creeping me out big time. Yeray: Three years ago, I uploaded a picture to Instagram, and I got ridiculed and body-shamed by the half the school. C: Body-shamed? you?

he showed me the supposed photo of him when he was still fat. Yeah, he was body-shamed. He also showed me all the hate comments below that. But it seems like I commented on his photo and told him to ignore everyone. he tells me that it helped him a lot.

C: Well, I'm glad I helped you three years ago. Yeray: You bet it all on black and you won. What I mean to say is, it's time to collect your prize, right?

He said while showing of his body. This guy really. Is he really stalking me? Why doesn't he know I'm with Samuel?

C: Yeah, um, I'm not too into prizes right now. And if you're not aware. I have a boyfriend. But hey, I'm happy to see you again, Yeray.

Then proceeded to walk to the classroom again.

When I arrived at the classroom, Samuel had his head on the table. and I sat with him quietly asking Guzman what happened to him. He told them that his head kind of hurts.

I tried to wake him up and he did.

S: Hey, what took you so long? C: Some guy talked to me on my way here. Is something wrong? feel anything? S: My love for you?

He never fails to make me smile. Even with his jokes.

S: Finally, you smiled. My head just hurts a little. But i'll be fine. C: Just being with you makes me smile. No need to make too much effort. S: but I want to. So tell me about this guy who talked to my baby. C: Well, his name is Yeray and apparently I helped him to motivate himself because he was body-shamed back then. S: Oh wow. How nice of you. See you're not all that cold. C: Well he said I should claim my prize which was him.

His facial expression immediately changed from happy to jealous. which I liked.

S: What? where is that jerk? C: Calm down. I told him no and that I have a boyfriend. S: Wrong. You have a fiancee.

Another one that made me smile. He's right. I should have shown Yeray our couple ring, at least joke around that Samuel is my husband.

C: Fine. Next time i'll show him my ring and my phone which has a picture of us as my wallpaper and tell him that this guy is my husband. Happy? S: Yes. More than. But that's it, i'm not letting you walk around this hallways without me. C: Actually I prefer that more. Cause I get to be with you.

After classes, Samuel kept his promise. We walked hand in hand through the hallway. Yeray was once again staring but he didn't matter. When we got to the stairs on the way to the car, my father was waiting for me infront.

I told Samuel to wait for me for a while because I was gonna talk to my father.

C: What do you want? Why are you here? CDad: By any chance, do you know about a boy named Yeray? C: How do you know about him? You're not even here for your daughter. CDad: Oh I am. I see Yeray as a potential investor of our company. He can help us recover. I want you to date him. C: You're deluded. I'm not going to do that. CDad: I'll leave you to it Hija. But I'll let you know this. Our company is struggling and we need his money.

All of a sudden, Yeray was walking towards us and approached me. I turned to look at Samuel who looks very iritated now, but I signaled him to just wait. My father greeted Yeray and asked point blank if Yeray likes me. and this guy immediately said yes and that he would like to take me to dinner. I told him i'll think about it. By that I mean I have to ask Samuel about it. I turned to see him again and he was on his phone looking all worried.

A couple of minutes later, I walked back to Samuel who just finished his phone call.

C: Who was that? S: The detective in charge of Nano's case. C: What is it about? S: Let's talk about it back at the apartment. In private.

We drove quietly back to our apartment. We both had somethings on our mind. Things that we need to discuss about. We were just quietly laying down. Both of us in each others arms but no one speaking. Until he broke the silence.

S: The police said that the prosecutor in charge is willing to make a deal to help Nano. C: What about it?

We were now laying face to face as we started to talk again. Should I tell him what I also need to do for my parents? I'm gonna let him finish first.

S: They are willing to help me with Nano's case in exchange of me turning over Rebeca's mother. C: What? Why? And how are you gonna do that? S: Don't tell anyone yet. But her mother deals drugs. You can take a wild guess as to why her mom is the reason why I was almost killed by random thugs just to get to her.

I was just confused. Her mom is a crack dealer?

C: So her mom for your brother. What do they want you to do? S: I need to get close to Rebeca to a point that going or roaming inside her house won't raise suspicion. I need to install cameras around the house. C: Okay then how? You're gonna hang out with her? S: You won't like the best idea that I have so far. C: Then try me.

He stopped talking for a while, thinking twice of how and what to say. I think I have an idea as to how he's gonna do it.

C: Please don't tell me you're planning on fake dating her? S: That's so far the best option for now. C: how is that the best option? S: Look I know you're not into the idea. But I have to think logically here. If I fake dated her, sleeping in her house would be the perfect cover. I could do it at night. C: I am not into the idea. But if you have to do it, then do it. S: If you don't want me to, just tell me. C: Babe, you need to do this for your family. S: Somethings up with you.

At this point he really knows how to read me. I don't even need to tell him if something is bothering me, I just need to tell him about it.

C: We promised no more secrets. S: Is it about that Yeray and your father? C: My father wants me to date him so he will invest in our company. S: If i'm gonna proceed to this deal, then you should also help your family. But we don't have to break up. Right? C: Of course not. Us being together is about as normal as we can get. I love you. But we have to keep our relationship a secret for now. S: How are we gonna do that? By faking a break up? C: For now yeah. But let's fill in Lu, Guzman, Nadia and Ander that we're only doing this for the sake of our families. S: It'll be a little hard on my part seeing as I have to betray someone in our group. C: I'm sure those close to us will understand. We have to lay some rules so we can play this out smoothly. S: I agree. So lay it on me.

We both agreed on a couple of rules to keep us from not seeing each other. 1.) We both have to update each other throughout everything. 2.) Doing intimate things should be consentual. 3.) We should always spend the nights during sunday through monday morning. 4.) We tell each other about everything. That way we can keep ourselves grounded from everything. 5.) When the opportunity to end it smoothly, we have to take it. But it doesn't have to be at the same time.

Constant communication, being open and some time together will be the key for us to do this correctly. Honestly this feels like the thing that Polo and I did to Christian. But this time we're not doing it for the sake of our pleasure. But sacrifices for our families.

The night ended with us cuddling and in each others arms after we had sex. Doing it with him now feels very different from the first few times that we did. Now it's purely for love, not because we want something.

The following day, we told the others about our plan and how we are gonna fake our break up. Of course, like how Samuel expected, his part isn't easy. at least for Nadia. But eventually when Samuel explained the real reason behind his disappearance, it didn't take much more convincing and everyone agreed to help us. In order for the both of us to meet, we'll use them as alibis. This is the last night that we'll spend before we fake break up.

Of course we spent it very well. Our apartment will still remain our secret place. Both of us agreed to have signs for communication.

[ For Carla: Hair tuck: I miss you. Arms cross: I love you.] [For Samuel: Necklace touch: I miss you. Lips touch: I love you.]

Because it's gonna be awkward if Yeray or Rebeca catches us on text when they are beside us. At least with signs it won't be too obvious. But when Rebeca and Yeray is not around we can still be our normalselves through text. It'll just be a little hard because she's in our class. For Yeray on the other hand, he's in a different class.

The following day, we both walked through the hallways in a distance. Guzman accompanied him and Lu was beside me. This immediately caught Rebeca's attention.

Rebeca: What happened to you and Blondie? S: Drop it. Guzman: They broke up. Rebeca: Haha, I knew you two won't last.

Samuel walked out on them, but he passed by me slowly and he touched his lips and I tucked my hair. During class, we were supposed to change seats, but an announcement had to change our plans.

Teacher: Take your places. And sit where you were seated yesterday.

Samuel and I sat beside each other, with Lu and Guzman behind us. Rebeca was seated at the far back beside Nadia.

Teacher: Okay. Those seats will be permanent throughout the rest of the school year. If you changed seats, I will automatically deduct points in your grade. That's it. Have a good day.

We just both looked at each other. I crossed my arms and he touched his lips once again.

Samuel

The teachers' announcement took us by surprise, but somehow it works for us. Because we had another reason to spend time close to each other.

Guzman: Bad timing for a break up huh? S: What a supportive friend you are. Lu: Hey, it's not our fault you both broke up.

We both acted annoyed but I know deep inside we are all fucking having a laugh.

After class I went to the police and accepted their deal to help with Nano's case. As I left the station I texted Carla.

[S: Is your date with Yeray tonight?] [C: Yeah. I honestly would rather be with you.] [S: Me too. But this won't be for much long.] [C: What about you? Any updates on Rebeca?] [S: She's infront of my building. I'll talk to you later. Okay?] [C: Okay, text me later. I love you, only you.] [S: I love you more. Always.]

I took a deep breath and greeted Rebeca who seems like she's waiting for me.

Rebeca: Where the hell were you? I was texting you. S: Oh shit. Rebeca: Trying to get Carla to get back together with you? S: Sorry my phone died. Rebeca: Really? well, maybe it's broken cause the messages I sent you showed up as "read". If you don't want to be with me then just tell me to fuck off and stop wasting my time. S: I was with the police. Rebeca: No way. S: Yeah, about my brother. Same shit as always. Rebeca: Sorry. I'm losing it. I don't know why, but I feel insecure around you. S: What can I do to fix that? Rebeca: I don't know. Maybe you could come over here and stick your tongue down my throat.

But instead she was the one who kissed me. Good thing that Omar suddenly texted asking to meet up at my apartment, which by the way, Valerio was renting half.

Here we are an hour later hearing that Polo tried to kill himself because of what he did. but how is that our problem? Guzman surely doesn't.

Carla

Tonight is one of the most annoying night i had. As Yeray was in the bathroom, I texted Samuel.

[C: Here with Yeray at a restaurant. How are things with you?] [S: Not good. Babe Rebeca kissed me earlier. Good thing Omar texted me.] [C: That slut really. Can you hurry up with her? Haha] [C: What did Omar say?] [S: He wanted to meet with me, Guzman and ander. Something about Polo.] [S: Apparently he tried to kill himself.] [C: I guess his conscience if finally eating him alive.] [S: My thoughts exactly. Guzman was so furious when he left.] [C: What about you? Are you okay?] [S: Yeah. I'm just missing you so much.] [C: Me too. I'd rather eat your homemade macaroni.] [S: Just a few weeks baby. I love you so much. Always.] [C: I love you too. And only you.]

Yeray just came out of the bathroom and started to talk again about his party this coming weekend. All of this is so boring for me.

Yeray: By the way, what color are you going to wear? C: Why? Are you buying a tie to match?

I answered with my hand under chin.

Yeray: No. A car.

Does he really think that I'm easily impressed because of the things he can buy?

C: That's all I am to you, right? An accessory that matches your new car?

With my answer he started to feel uneasy and nervous. Then he went on a speech on how before he wasn't invited to any party and now he's the one throwing it and that he gets to control who will be invited and who won't. Everything has to match me because I'm the center of everything. Well bravo to you Yeray but you can't buy my happiness. Which is Samuel.

Yeray: Tell me what you want. Anything and it'll be yours. C: Yeray, What I don't have can't be bought with Money.

After dinner he drove me home still trying to impress me with material things. I wanted to call it a night and gave him a friendly kiss on the cheek. But then he went on and tried to pursuade me to come to his party. And what great timing. My father just came home. Of course my father and Yeray would greet each other. I already told him that I do not want to go to his party. But my father decided on my behalf and told him that we were coming.

The next day was pretty okay considering I hid from Yeray in school and in my class I get to be with Samuel. Earlier today, before class he messaged me.

[S: Yesterday was a shitty day without you.] [S: I need to be with you.] [S: Can we meet after school?] [C: Want to break the rules?] [S: Not really. But I really want to hold you.] [C: Meet me at Yeray's party in the club tonight.] [S: Okay. I'll see you later. I love you and only you. Always] [C: I miss you and I love you more. 😘]

In class, Samuel arrived first. There was a piece of paper on my seat. A handwritten note with the words "I love you" once again. I turned to look at him. But he didn't turn his head, in return he just gave me a sweet smile. We couldn't show too much affection because Rebeca was sitting in the back. I gave him an arms cross. which also means the same thing in our signs.

During lunch time, it was kind of new to me to see Samuel buying from the cafeteria. Considering he always brings his own food. When Rebeca left the table to go to the bathroom, Lu, Guzman and Nadia we're left with Samuel and Me giving us a couple of minutes of freedom.

C: You didn't bring your own food? Lu: Yeah that's very new. S: I only know how to cook a couple of food and I don't want anyone else other than Carla to taste my cooking.

We all had a good laugh till Rebeca came back. So much for a couple of minutes of freedom and now we're back to ignoring each other.

The night came fast, I really didn't want to go to this party, but I told Samuel to meet me there. When me and my father arrived at the club, Yeray immediately greeted us and my father became straight to the point.

[C: Let's meet at the bathroom. in 10 mins. 😘] [S: I'll see you in 10. 🥰🥰]

He made me smile by using those emojis. I went and followed Yeray to try and talk to him which seemed to have worked. He then excused himself because it was time to formally start his party and I went on to go to Samuel. My own piece of quiet. And there he was, waiting patiently in the bathroom. As soon as the last person went out, we locked the doors and proceeded to kiss each other. The thing that we've both missed these past few days. What felt like hours only lasted for a couple of minutes. I can't be gone for too long. Yeray and my father will suspect something.

S: I'm all set to plant what I need to in Rebeca's house. C: Are you sure you really want to do this? S: Not really. But it's for my family. C: Then be careful okay? I don't want you getting hurt. S: I can't make promises. But I'll try to. C: I love you. See you tomorrow. S: I love you more. I'll be waiting for you.

After one kiss I went out first, careful not to bring any unnecessary attention as I find Yeray once again. When I did find him he explained that he will invest to our company. If I agree to date him. Right after saying that he went in and just kissed me. I was left in awe and just didn't feel anything. I just let him do it.

The night ended and it was finally time to take a rest. Before I got to my bed, Samuel called. I felt kind of nervous. What if he saw Yeray and I earlier? Should I just tell him what happened? Like how he told me about Rebeca? Maybe I should. We promised to both be open about this.

S: Hey, did you get home alright? C: Yeah. And I miss you already. S: So do I. How is everything? C: Yeray said that he agrees to invest, as long as I agree to be his girlfriend. S: Really? And what did you say? C: I said I'd think about the whole relationship first.

Samuel didn't respond. I know he's feeling upset right now. We both don't have control over the situation now.

C: Yeray kissed me earlier. S: uhm, I saw that earlier. How was it? C: Babe, please. We both promised to be open about this. I didn't react that way when you told me Rebeca kissed you. S: I'm sorry. We'll talk about that more tomorrow. You should go ahead and get some rest. C: Are you mad at me? S: No. I'm not mad. Let's just save it for now. C: Just promise you're not. Please. S: Alright. I promise I'm not mad. I'll see you tomorrow. I love you. C: I love you more and only you. Good night. Dream of me. S: I love you. Always. I will. now go to sleep.

We ended the night a little differently. and to be honest I felt uneasy just leaving it like that. But one thing is for sure, we will get through this together. It may not be as easy as we planned but eventually everything will be alright.

The next day, I was so excited to go to our apartment. Samuel was already there just waiting for me. Yeray texted earlier and asked me out but I told him I'm going out with Lu who will be my alibi for today. So I got dressed like how I would on a normal day. Just a plain shirt and hoodie and pants. That's it. I don't need to make an effort in front of Samuel because we've both become more comfortable with each other. Besides this is also a day where we spend a whole day together. So I wore something comfortable. I took a cab going to the apartment. I arrived a little after lunch. Samuel was nowhere to be seen in the living room. So I went to the bedroom and he also wasn't there. Did he leave? Or did he had to go somewhere? I texted him and asked him where he is. But it's been 5 minutes and he hasn't responded or read my texts.

I tried calling him but his phone just kept on ringing.

C: I swear to God if I find out that you're hanging out with Rebeca right now I will--

All of a sudden someone hugged me from behind. It was him. Still damp from shower with only a towel wrapped around his waist. He has his wide smile on while trying hard not to laugh at me.

S: You seriously thought I'd rather spend the day with someone else? C: I though you left. I seriously didn't think you'd be in the shower. S: You didn't see my clothes there on the chair? C: I didn't. But you hugged me while you were still wet from the shower. Now I feel cold. S: Sorry. I just wanted to calm you down before you scream at me or your phone. I just -

I just proceeded and kissed him. This day can go in different ways with everything that we have to talk about. But for me it doesn't matter, as long as I spend it with him.

Samuel

I heard Carla call my name a few times. I just took a quick shower so I would be fresh when I see her. I guess she didn't notice i'm in here. She kept on texting me, asking where I am. But I haven't opened it. Till she called. The moment she texted asking where I am, I immediately put my phone on vibrate. She kept on calling so I slowly opened the door. Careful not to make any sound. She was already kind of pissed off so I hugged her from behind. I tried hard not to laugh, but I also enjoyed watching her be jealous. Atleast I know she still loves me.

A couple of minutes later we continued our talk from last night. I know this one is gonna be rough.

C: I know that the idea of me dating Yeray upsets you. But why? Tell me. We promise to be open about this. S: It's just that, this kind of scenario seems all too familiar to me. C: What scenario? S: You, Polo and Christian? C: Samuel, that one has nothing to do with this. What happened between the three of us had no relation whatsoever with solving anything. It was just for fun. S: But that one, you ended up falling for a different person. C: Now I see why you're so upset. You don't need to worry about me falling for someone like Yeray. S: Really? Cause last time I checked, he has it all. Good looking, your father likes him, oh and he can give you anything. C: My father likes him because he can help our company. And him giving me everything is one of the reasons why I'm sure I'm not falling for someone like him. S: Why is that? C: I don't like being showered with unnecessary gifts. He gives me this things that I don't need or want. He wants his things to match me. You know I don't like to be treated like a fucking trophy. I want someone to like me or love me for me. Not because I'm rich. That someone is you. S: Fair point. Sorry if I get all insecure, I just feel like i'm slowly losing you to him. C: You're not going to lose me. Infact, it should be me who's worried. That slut Rebeca has her claws deep into you. S: Rebeca is Rebeca. Believe it or not, I feel sick whenever I go inside her house. Too much drugs. I'm sorry, I kept on insisting that she always come over at my apartment. C: I understand that. I don't want you to get all high accidentally. S: That sounded more like a sarcasm. C: I meant it. If you're gonna get high and then sick the next day, I know this will sound too harsh but I want to be the one who'll take care of you. S: And you will. A couple more days then I'm all yours again. Your baby at your service. C: You got your sense of humor back. That's a good sign. S: Well, my girlfriend made a lot of points and I believe her. Almost as much as I love her.

She smiled then wrapped her arms around me.

C: Who is this lucky girlfriend? Do I know her?

she says teasingly.

S: I think you do. Wanna know who and where she is? C: Okay then. S: Her name is Carla Roson Caluerga, and she's here and here.

I pointed at my head and my chest.

Time flies whenever we're spending time together. I can say that there is never a dull moment with her, we can talk about almost anything and I love that about her.

We didn't notice it was already 5pm. Both of us got lazy and just ordered a delivery service for our dinner. About half an hour later, the doorbell rang, it could be our food. So I immediately opened the door.

Cayetana: Good evening delivery for Ms. Carla Roson -

It was Cayetana. I guess Carla will also know her dirty little secret.

C: Hey babe is that our food?

Carla came out from the kitchen and very slowly walked towards me at the door.

C: Cayetana? What are you doing as a delivery girl? I thought you have money. S: Wait. Get inside right now.

I pulled her in. She found out about me and Carla. Good thing is that she also has a secret to hide. This can work.

C: Whatever you see in here, don't you dare spill it out to whoever. Especially Polo and Rebeca. Do you understand? Cayetana: Aren't you that rich guy's girlfriend? Yeray right? And you are dating Rebeca. But why are you two here? S: Why do you care? C: Samuel and I are together. Us, in a relationship. Get it? Cayetana: I can't wait to tell this to Lu and Guzman, I'm sure you'll lose them both. S: Go ahead and do it, we're not afraid. Just keeping things private. But i'll tell you this, I know you care about how people see you. I know how you want to impress people with money that you don't have. What happens when the entire Las Encinas finds out that the new princess is actually a wanna be house cleaner, delivery girl. C: What do you mean a house cleaner? S: Rebeca told me before. That she's one of their house cleaner. She works with her mother. They don't own it, they just work there. C: Huh, so aren't you full of lies. Cayetana: Please don't tell anyone about my jobs. I promise to also keep your secret if you keep mine. C: How are we gonna trust you? You're a liar after all. Cayetana: My lie is bigger than yours. I basically lied about my life, you're just cheaters. Plus I don't have the same reputation as the both of you do. S: I have a reputation? C: Babe, how do you not know that? Anyways, here is our payment. You can keep the change.

Cayetana stood up and left. But before she could open the door Carla and I warned her once again.

S: If any of this ever spill out at school, you're the only one who we're coming for. C: And if this gets out, I'll make sure that everyone will treat you differently after your secrets comes out.

As Cayetana left, both of us are kind of uncertain, but at the same time relieved. She's right, her secret is bigger than ours. We can easily make our secret vanish once she gets exposed. Carla was preparing our dinner on the couch while I was grabbing some drinks for us. As per usual we are eating at the living room couch once again.

S: What does she mean I have a reputation? C: That caught up with you didn't it? S: Yeah, so you know about it? C: Everyone at school does. Don't worry it's good reputation. S: Can I know what it is? C: It's simply because if you become a close friend to someone and they'd get into trouble, you'd always have their back. Basically in Las Encinas you're type is rare. The type that would do anything for someone you care about. S: But isn't that how friendships work in the first place? C: Not in our school at least.

We ate our dinner together and laughed at this tv series that we watched on the internet. Both of us not even thinking about tomorrow. How we both need to go back to our sad temporary reality that we have to be seen dating other people. After dinner I received a call from the police telling me that they got Rebeca's mom because of the video cameras that I installed there yesterday.

Night fell and both of us were still not through to talking about us which is fun. I've never been like this to anyone, but we both know that we have school tomorrow so we went to bed, once again cuddled into each others arms. I sang to her for a bit which is also a first for me, then she fell asleep. But I couldn't sleep. I kept thinking, we both have to endure another week keeping a distance from each other.

While she were asleep in my arms, I grabbed my phone and searched for a quick recipe for pancakes. She told me this is her favorite and I wanted to make her one for breakfast tomorrow. At least start the day sweet and right before we go back to our sad fake break up.

The morning came and I woke up at the sound of her alarm. But surprisingly she doesn't. It's like the both of us were so comfortable in our position that neither of us moved while we were asleep. I slowly got up, careful not to wake her and made my way into the kitchen. I got eggs, flour, milk and butter. Mixed all them up cooked according to the instructions I found along with the recipe. I was plating them in a way that she would appreciate. I put roses from last night in a small vase beside a coffee and juice and ofcourse her favorite maple syrup on the side. I arranged them on a table and then went to the bedroom where she was still sleeping. I put the table down as I wake her. Again like I always do to wake her up, Shower her with kisses. When she finally responded to one, I knew she'd taste the maple syrup from the one I ate before going in.

C: You taste like maple syrup, which is one half of my favorite breakfast. Now I'm craving for it. S: Craving for what? the pancake and maple syrup or my kiss? C: For both. S: Well then your wish is my command.

I brought up the table and set it infront of her.

S: Breakfast in bed. Special for my baby only.

Her smile widened then leaned in for another kiss.

C: That's sweet. I love you. S: I love you too. Go ahead try it.

She immediately reached for the utensils and devoured the pancakes while I watch her. She took a slice and drenched it in maple syrup before feed it to me. We ate breakfast like that this morning. While still ignoring the fact that in a few hours we'll be back in school.

After breakfast we both went on and got ready for school, both of us not wanting to go but unfortunately we have to. We also remembered that it's valentines day on Tuesday. So much for wanting to spend it together. I guess the breakfast in bed idea was a perfect at the time.

S: Babe, advanced happy valentines day. Sorry we'll only get to spend it this morning.

I greeted her as I reached out to my pocket and gave her a gold necklace. It's almost the same as mine, but thinner and for women. there's like a strip of plain gold on it where I had it engraved with both of our initials. "SG & CR"

C: I told you no to material things. S: It's not the necklace that I spent on. It's the engraving and meaning. C: Meaning? S: Yeah. Babe I know you don't like this types of gifts, but this is something that I promised myself to give to my girlfriend, only if I think she's the one.

She turned the pendant around and saw the engraving then hugged me.

C: It's beautiful and sweet that you're thinking of our future now. S: Well you thought you were stupid for thinking that when in fact it's me who's stupid if I let you go.

I proceeded to put it around her neck. As she did when she tied my necktie like she always does.

C: just so you know, I didn't want to lose to you.

She went towards her bag and grabbed a small black box. Inside was a watch. A black watch.

I turned to look at her and she immediately put her wrist up and showed that she's wearing the same thing.

C: We both had the same thought of engraving something on gifts.

I turned the watch over and saw the same engravings.

S: What if people notice that we're wearing the same thing? C: Let them. It's not like people notice everything about us. If they ask we can just tell them that we bought them together, and it'd be a waste to just throw them away. S: Good thought. But I have to go, i'm riding my bike today remember? C: I forgot. I wish this could all be over. S: Soon baby. Real soon. I'll see you at school. I love you. Only you. C: I love you more. always. Ride safe.

We kissed one last time before I went out and rode my bike to school. in a way, it feels like we're both living as a married couple, but we both like it this way. and in a few more days or weeks, we can finally be together again in public.

Carla

As I arrived at school I immediately texted Samuel.

[C: Babe I just arrived at school. I love you, only you.] [S: I arrived about 5 minutes ago. See you later in class. I love you more, always.]

Yeray was waiting for me at the entrance and all I can think about is "can I escape from him and go through a different entrance?" but anyways, I have to face him today, best to just deal with it now.

Yeray: Ready for Valentine's day?

He asked but my eyes were roaming around, finding the person that I really wanted to spend valentines day with.

Yeray: We'll have flowers, a meal at the best restaurant and maybe a few surprises.

I'd rather just eat Samuel's homemade macaroni and stay at our apartment but I have to deal with you.

C: Actually, we always celebrate at Lu's, right?

I replied as soon as I saw Lu walking towards us.

Lu: Yes. Yeray: Not me. I've never been invited. Not to Valentine's day or anything else. C: Right.

I gave her the sign to help me get rid of Yeray. Either I just spend it with my friends or with Samuel. Anywhere just far away from Yeray.

Lu: I don't feel like doing that this year. I don't want to throw a party, because I'm crazy busy with my studies and the Columbia program, so it's just gonna be me, Carla and a few close friends.

Cayetana: Is that why? Or is it because you have no friends left?

Lu looked really sad after hearing what that pretentious bitch said. Maybe I should expose the fraud that she is. Ever since Lu's big revelations during her birthday party, people somewhat think that she lost all her friends. But she didn't. She has me, Samuel, Guzman, Ander, Nadia and Omar.

Samuel

After class, I immediately went home. I didn't want anyone to hear me when the police called me about Rebeca's mom getting arrested. When all of a sudden the doorbell rang and Valerio opened the door. It was Rebeca. She greeted Valerio first and walked up towards me.

She went on about how she has no place to stay at the moment and if she could stay here. I couldn't exactly say no. But I don't want to just sleep beside her. What should I do? it'll be a little suspicious if I leaver now. She's supposed to be my girlfriend and act all worried. So I let her stay at my place. I made an excuse to go out and buy some stuff at a nearby grocery so I could talk to Carla privately. She needs to know what's going on. I don't want to give her a reason to be worried. So I rode my bike to Nadia's store. Luckily she was the one incharge today.

Nadia: Samu. What are you doing here? S: I just needed a place to talk to Carla privately. Rebeca's staying at my apartment. Nadia: Yeah, her mother got arrested. What did the police saw in those cameras that you installed? S: Various types of drugs. They also got her for money laundering. Nadia: Shit, I didn't know about that. I thought it was like a small time business. S: Yeah. They had cases piled against her. Nadia: That's hard. But Oh and go ahead make your phone call. I'll cover for you. S: Thanks Nadia.

I dialled Carla's number and it rang a few times before she picked up.

S: Hey, I hope I'm not disturbing or anything. I just wanted to ask you something. C: You're not. You had a good timing. I'm in the bathroom. S: So um Rebeca's mom got arrested. But there's a slight hiccup in the plan to break up with her. C: Why what happened? S: She's in my apartment and asked if she could stay there for a while. C: What? Wait where are you calling from right now if she's at your place? S: I'm at Nadia's family's store. Rebeca is sort of freaking out because of her mom. I was think of staying at Guzmans or our apartment but she would be suspicious of me if all of a sudden I stay away. C: Babe I can't stand thinking about the two of you together in a bed. That should be me. S: I know baby. I'm sorry. But I can't in good conscience break up with her right now. C: Fine. Give it a few days. But please just always talk to me. S: I will. You know I'll never do anything that will make you doubt me. C: Of course I know that. It's her I don't trust. Not you. S: Hey, where are you right now? C: I've had the most boring, irritating and annoying dinner with Yeray. S: Seems like an exxageration. But is it really that bad? C: I honestly felt sleepy before going to the bathroom. S: Better ask him to take you home then. C: He wants me to come over at his place. Is that okay with you? S: The idea isn't. But if I did it, it should just be fair to you. C: So you're fine with me doing it. But you just don't like to think about it. S: Yeah. I don't like to think about another guy having sex with my girlfriend. But whatever it takes to finish this right? C: I don't like to do it either. All I keep thinking about is how to just get through with it. S: Just act like you would before with Christian. All fun and games. C: That's one idea. I'll give it a shot. S: Anything for my baby. C: I got to go, he'll be wondering what's taking me so long. S: Then if he asks, tell him your husband called. Hahaha C: Maybe I should. Hahaha. Stay safe and I'll see you tomorrow in school. S: You STAY SAFE too. I love you. Only you. C: Damn you. I miss you and I love you more. Always.

We hung up the phone and I grabbed a couple of instant noodles at their store. I can't go back empty handed when I told Rebeca I have to go out and buy something. After a few minutes I got back to my apartment. Valerio and Rebeca we're taking drugs. And I don't want to be a part of it. All of a sudden Lu called saying that she needs help with something. This is a perfect opportunity to ditch Rebeca. I told her about Lu and she told me to go. After all she is busy doing drugs with Valerio. I doubt she'd be missing me.

An hour later I arrived at Lu's place. Guzman, Ander and Nadia was also there.

Lu: Okay, One more and we're all set to go. S: Why are we here Lu? I mean I'm not complaining cause you got me out of my apartment. Guzman: What's wrong at your place? S: Valerio and Rebeca is what's wrong. They turned my place to a drug den. Ander: Shit really? Aren't you gonna kick them out? S: I'm thinking about it. But at Rebeca's state. Now might not be a good time to kick her out. Guzman: Who cares? You can't get into all that shit. Lu: I can't believe i'm actually saying this but I agree with Guzman. Guzman: I have a point you know. Lu: I know. You should kick them out. Now is not a good time to get caught with anything. Think about your future. S: I know that. As soon as the investigation at her house is done, I'll kick both of them out and dump Rebeca.

Someone called Lu and she immediately answered. It was a quick call.

Lu: So I also called Carla here. Samuel, Yeray is... Not with her. You two can be together for the night.

As soon as she said that, Carla walked in. I stood up and hugged her. She immediately responded by resting her face on my chest. After today, I needed this.

Lu: Okay you guys, I need your help with Valentines Day.

I kissed her on her forehead and held her hand as we sat down.

C: What do you mean? You told me earlier that it will only be with your closest friends. Lu: I thought of that. But then it won't be fun cause we won't make Polo and Cayetana feel like an outcast. Guzman: So that's your reason as to why we should throw a party?

Carla

I thought Lu wanted to do an intimate gathering. I was very willing to go, cause if it's just us, I would be fine. Really fine cause I get to be with Samuel without Yeray or Rebeca there. But whatever. Now I can't spend Valentines Day with Samuel.

S: Lu are you sure? You don't have to throw a party just because of that. We're happy if it's just us.

To make the long night short, we ended up planning for a party anyways. I wanted to be with Samuel but to hell with that now. Tomorrow i'll just get wasted knowing I'll be with a boring, annoying and irritating date. The night ended with Samuel and I going to our apartment. Yes it's not ideal to go here at this hour. Rebeca might be waiting for him, but Guzman agreed to cover for him. If she asks, he'll tell her the he and Samuel drank at his place and they got wasted and Samuel just fell asleep there. When in reality he's here with me. Atleast for the morning of this Valentines I get to spend it with him. But I was in a bit of a mood. Because of Polo again, we had to ruin Valentines. Damn the son of a bitch. I dropped my bag and sat on the couch aggressively.

S: Hey what got you in that mood? You were fine earlier. C: Nothing.

I answered in annoyance. But he knows me well. He got his curious eyes on.

S: Babe, I know you. Tell me what's wrong. C: It's just that, her plan earlier was perfect. No Yeray, No Rebeca, No Polo to ruin the Valentines night. and Look at what happened. S: As much as I also want to spend my Valentines with you, we have other matters at hand. Think of it this way, we might not be spending it together, but we are at the same place and at the same time. In a way we're still spending it together, just from a distance. C: You always know what to say to calm me down. S: Well, I kind of have to. Dating you is no joke. C: Hey, what is that supposed to mean? S: I mean, Dating you requires a lot of work. In a good way. You deserve only the best. Only I can't give you everything that's why I have to try extremely hard to give you my best. C: Samuel, you don't need to try that hard. Your presence alone is enough for me. Along with your constant possesiveness. S: We do have tonight and tomorrow morning to spend together. C: That is true.

We went ahead and took a quick shower then straight to bed. Both of us still talking and telling each other stuff.

C: Tell me what is it like to date Rebeca? S: Okay so we're going there. She's like a walking drug den. If i'm gonna be completely honest. C: Ohh that's bad. But aside from that. Is she a good kisser? S: She is not. She tastes like. Like weed. I don't know I can't explain. C: You're very rough right now. S: What about you? How is the sex with Yeray? C: He's not good. I honestly don't feel anything when we had sex. It was like when I had sex with Christian back then. Just nothing. S: Really? I thought he would be good. C: He's the opposite of that. And when he kisses me it's like kissing a tree. S: Holy shit. You're dating a tree?

I laughed at his sarcasm. We both did. We found it funny to see and compare how we see each other and how we are with different people.

C: What about you? How is the sex with Rebeca? S: She, she never lasts more than 5 minutes. The fastest was 2. C: What? 2 minutes. So you don't, finish? S: No, I never do with her. C: That's just brutal. But what is it like with me?

He looked at me in the eyes and kissed me. But I pulled away.

C: Answer my question.

I said teasing.

C: What is it like for you when we're having sex? S: When I think of you, it's not sex. It's the idea of having intimacy with you. More physical. Don't get me wrong I enjoy every minute of it with you. But when we have sex or make love, I honestly just don't think about anything. Except for one thing. That I love you and only you. I'm happy to be doing this with you and not any other women. What about you? C: I thought the same. It's not just sex. It's the making love with the guy who made me feel loved. Like I told you before, I only feel something when I have sex with you. That's just it. I'm inlove with the guy who makes me feel whole. you make me feel complete. S: Atleast with you we last more than 10 minutes and I finish. Do you? C: I do finish. I finish a little earlier than you.

We both joked. But it was true. Although our topic is like that, we know that we enjoy things this casual. Atleast for now. This things that we talk about is one way of staying afloat in our relationship. It hasn't failed. Yes we both had our casual fights. But we always fix things up. I know that arguing sometimes keeps the relationship healthy. There was this movie that we watched recently "Time Freak" about a guy who can't get over the fact that his girlfriend broke up with him so he made a time machine to fix all the arguments they had in the past. but when he did patch things up, they ended up not having a fun relationship. and the girl questioned why they don't fight at all. The girl became indifferent. She almost became the opposite of how she was before they met.

Samuel and I both agree that casual arguments or fights are normal to a healthy relationship. Because if there aren't any, then maybe neither of us care about each other.

Morning came but I was too lazy to get up. I turned my alarm off and just stared at Samuel. I didn't want to get up knowing full well that we won't get to spend it as a couple.

S: Good morning.

He said in his husky morning voice.

C: Good morning.

I said in a bland tone.

S: Doesn't sound like you're excited at all for today. C: I'd rather spend the day here alone than to go the party later with Yeray. S: Come on. You have to go. Just remember that i'll also be there. C: Yeah while Rebeca is in your arms. S: I can easily get away from her and find you. C: Still I don't feel like it. S: I'm not going if you're not going. C: You'll blow your cover with Rebeca. S: Doesn't matter. I'm done with her. I'm just waiting for a convenient time for her so I can finally break up with her.

We both got up and started preparing breakfast. After eating we prepared to go to school, the usual I put on his tie for him.

C: why are you not leaving yet? S: We can go together. C: People will talk about us. S: I don't care. If Yeray or Rebeca asks let's just say you saw me running late so you offered to ride with me. C: The small excuses we do just to squeeze the time for us to be together. S: When all this is over I might just hug you all the time around school. C: And I'd love that. I'll be angry at you if you even let go of my hand.

We were both joking around while walking downstairs waiting for a cab. At school Lu and Guzman greeted us at the entrance.

Lu: I thought you two are hiding. C: We formed a lie. S: Come on you guys it's valentines day, and we atleast wanted to spend as much time together as we can. Guzman: Yeah you both do. Come on.

At school Lu immediately started sending and giving out invites for the Valentines party for tonight. While walking in the hallway Yeray called my name and backed me to a wall. Great just what I needed. I gave Lu a signal to go on ahead. Once again he kept on talking and talking non-stop it was annoying me to another level. I just nod and pretend to listen. I looked to my left and saw Rebeca who also backed Samuel to a wall. We carefully glanced at each other and gave our signs for I love you. I guess Rebeca misunderstood his moves and all of a sudden she kissed him. I couldn't watch at all, so I told Yeray that I needed to talk to Lu and then I left as fast as I could. Finally, a felt a little relieved. Samuel and Rebeca followed a couple of minutes later.

Usually when we talk inside the classroom, we don't face each other because Rebeca was just at the back. But this time he was facing me because Lu and Guzman are also involved.

S: Rebeca wants me to help her investigate inside her house. To know how the police knew where to look. Guzman: What? You'll get caught in that. Lu: We have to do or think of something. C: Like what? Even I can't think of anything. S: If I help her, then I have to get through everything before she does. I need to take off every sticker where the camera was attached to. C: That's risky. Guzman: But he doesn't have any other option. Unless someone offers to help? Or we can sneak in before you guys, if you have a key. S: I don't. I rarely go there. I always feel sick whenever I go into her house. Lu: Oh my God. It's really that bad.

After class ended I wasn't in the mood for anything so I went straight home. To my dismay Yeray went to the mansion showing off yet another car.

Yeray: Do you like my Bumblebee? C: What? Yeray: Bumblebee? Transformers? Anyways. C: I wish you signed things as fast as you buy cars.

I smiled at him annoyingly.

He let out a huge sigh and waved at my father who was on his phone.

Yeray: So you only like me if I invest in your wine business? How does this work? C: No. I like people who keep their word. Yeray: But that investment isn't a car. It's like 10,000 cards.

I turned around to walk slowly away from him. Seriously. Can't he feel that I don't like him?

Yeray: It's not like pulling out your credit card and buying, I don't know. This?

He said while putting up a paper bag.

I reached out in annoyance and pulled up a party dress. It's like he doesn't listen and just wants me to go with his decision. If this was Samuel he would value my opinion. And we'd argue on whether we would go or not. Yeray doesn't even want to follow Lu's dress code.

Yeray: Let them stare and see you looking amazing in my arm.

I'd rather be in Samuel's arms.

C: Actually, I'd rather go alone.

And here goes my father again. Weighing in on my decisions. Ofcourse, Now i'm forced to go to this party with Yeray and not follow the dress code and see Rebeca smooch on Samuel. Way to keep me annoyed Yeray. Well done.

A couple of hours later Yeray arrived to pick me up. We stopped at a liquor store first to buy some drinks to bring to the party. I drank like half the bottle the entire ride and Lu greeted us when we arrived.

I was quite drunk but I clearly see Samuel staring at me from a distance. I never forget our sign so I crossed my arms and he touched his lips. That I can still see clear as day. The one I love sitting there, waiting for me.

Samuel

I smiled as I gave Carla our sign. She was clearly already drunk. But i'm not her date for tonight. I wish I was. But I'm sure that if we were together tonight, she wouldn't be drunk. Instead we'd be at a corner talking or making out while doing shots.

Rebeca: Wow, so you do know how to smile and everything.

I lost the smile on my face.

S: How do you want me to act, Rebe? Someone I care about threw their life away for that shit.

That shit meaning the drugs.

Rebeca: Samuel, Look at me please. S: What? Rebeca: If I have to choose between you and the cash then we'll flush that shit down the toilet right away. Look at me being all romantic. After saying something that romantic, we could at least kiss or --

I just gave her a quick one and then went to the bathroom.

The music started playing something slow, so I went out to try and find Carla, but Rebeca was waiting for me and asked me to dance. A few minutes later I saw Carla, Yeray was leaning in to kiss her as I was staring blankly at them. Rebeca's head we're rested on my shoulder so she's facing away from me. Which gave me the freedom to just look at the love of my life. She pulled away from their kiss and rested her head on his chest while facing me. She immediately saw me and we both mouthed the words "I love you". Like we always do. Hiding and stealing glances. Before the night ended I told Rebeca that I would like to dance Lu because it's her party and she doesn't have a date. As I did.

S: Lu. Will you please dance with me?

Lu looked really confused, I noticed Guzman ask her to dance earlier but given their history, she turned him down. Eventually she agreed and we danced near Carla and Yeray.

Lu: Thank you Samu. S: For what? Lu: For dancing with me tonight. I know you'd rather be dancing Carla. S: This is nothing. We're friends right? Lu: yeah. We are. That's why I want to be honest with you. S: What about? Lu: I'm really happy for the both of you. And I wish both of you can stop hiding. S: Sorry if we're being such a burden to all of you. Lu: It's not that. If anything we're all happy because Carla started to change for the better. Gone is the ice queen who lacked emotions. But Samu, you have to understand that after graduation, Carla will be leaving to study abroad. S: We haven't talked about that. But so what? If she still wants to be with me, I'm willing to wait. Lu: Samu, I want you to be with Carla. If she decides to study abroad would you be willing to follow her? S: Of course I am. But what exactly are you trying to point out? Lu: Samu, I saw you're passion for art in our class and the project you and Marina made. I can ask my parents to be your sponsor so you can study with Carla. If you want. You don't have to answer right away. You can talk to Carla about it first and let me know on Graduation. S: Of course. That'd be great Lu. Thank you. Thank you so much.

This is one news that can't be trumped by anything. Not even Rebeca dealing drugs. But what would Carla think if i told her about this? Should I just keep this a secret? So I have a surprise for her when she leaves.

After the party ended Lu, Guzman, Nadia, Ander and I had our own after party with all the drinks left. I told Rebeca that she can go home and don't worry about me. When she asked me about the key I told her Valerio has one. So she went to my apartment and the rest of us enjoyed the night. Yeray drove Carla home. But she texted me that she's at the mansion.

The night ended with the four of us getting drunk as we all fell asleep.

Carla

The morning after the party I felt a little hung over. Makes sense cause I drank half the bottle of what we brought to the party plus a couple more. I stood up and took a shower to relax for a little while and then went down to eat lunch. I saw my mother at the patio and I just stared at her for a couple more minutes till my father arrived.

CDad: The contract has arrived. C: So when will it be signed?

I walked farther away from my father.

Cdad: It's with the lawyers now. It will take a few days. The only thing is that there's a clause that allows Yeray to withdrwa the funding at any time during the first five years. C: What? Cdad: He'll be pulling our strings all that time. C: Five years?

I have to endure five years hiding with Samuel? Five years I have to keep up with Yeray?

C: I'm going to tell that bastard off.

I took my phone from my back pocket to try and call Yeray.

CDad: No.

He started walking towards me.

CDad: You won't say anything. Especially not now.

At that exact moment I wanted to scream. but perfect timing Yeray. He texted me saying that we have something to celebrate.

CDad: Have fun.

I looked at my father in disbelief. it's was almost the same as being a pimp. I felt like a prostitute being sold to a guy with a lot of money. i didn't want to be with Yeray. I don't want to spend any more time without the guy that I truly love.

I just shook my head in disbelief, unable to say anything about it while my father walked away.

Samuel

Today is the day that Rebeca wants to go and break in at her house. While we were in there I tried to get to the places that I placed cameras on and removed it before she goes there. I know it's not ideal but it's the only option I got.

Earlier in class Ander came to school with a shaved head announcing that he did it because he has cancer. He didn't deserve that. Guzman wasn't in the mood when Polo answered in the middle of our conversation. Along with that Valerio and Rebeca also started selling their drugs in school. I didn't want to be a part of any of this, but if after this I could break up with her already then fine.

Carla

Yeray wanted to go out to dinner again, but this time we both ended up at his place. Yeray made all the moves and I just let him till we ended up in the shower. I told I don't like to have sex with anyone while kissing, but the truth, it's just because I wanted to fake enjoying it. Add that to the fact that I atleast want to think of Samuel but couldn't. After that shower we both stayed at a hot tub. He asked me if I was bothered by the fact that Ander has cancer, I told him yes. Part of it atleast. I just wanted to leave Yeray. But then he asked me if I wanted sushi because we could go to Japan. Even if I did I wouldn't enjoy it with him. I'd rather stay here and spend every minute of it with Samuel and with our friends than go to some enjoyable place with Yeray. He took out a long black velvet box from the drawer beside the tub and gave it to me.

I opened it, and revealed a gold bedazzled toothbrush. He wanted me to stay the night. But I didn't. I don't want to spend another minute with him. After we both got out of the hot tub, I received a text from Lu, saying that both Samuel and Guzman we're at her place both wasted and she needed help. A perfect excuse to leave Yeray and spend the night elsewhere. I immediately got dresses and bid him goodbye as I booked a taxi and went to Lu's.

When I arrived, Lu was waiting for me at the door.

C: What the hell happened and they both got drunk. Lu: Samuel finished the house invasion with Rebeca and he told Guzman that they had sex afterwards. And then Guzman brought him to the club and somehow they both ended up here. I can take care of Guzman, so. C: I'll take care of Samuel. Don't worry. Lu: You guys can use the guest bedroom.

I walked fast towards Samuel who was laughing hard with Guzman.

S: Ohh look bro my baby is here.

He said drunk.

Guzman: Ohh your baby. Tell her, tell her what happened. C: Okay let's get you to the bedroom. S: no, no! Look bro I'm gonna tell her. watch okay? C: You can tell me later.

I forced myself to pick him up.

C: Hey, Come on, let's talk in the other room. S: Okay. See you bro! Guzman: yeah yeah, see you. Carla! Take care of your baby. Okay?

Both of them drunk are actually a treat to watch. I'd rather take care of Samuel than spend another minute with Yeray. A couple of minutes later Samuel was already plopped down on the bed. I took a wet towel and rinsed it to wash his face a little.

S: Baby, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. C: What are you sorry for? Did you do anything wrong?

He sat up and hugged me tightly, then his tears started to stream from his face.

S: I had sex with Rebeca. C: Shhh, You told me that's what matters. S: I'm so sorry.

He was still crying at this point but I laid him down slowly.

S: Carla, I don't want to see you with Yeray. C: Just endure it a little more. S: I love you so much. Please don't leave me. C: I won't. We both promised remember? S: Please don't leave me even if Nano comes home. C: I promise I won't.

Just like that he fell asleep. I feel like he has a lot worries piled up inside him. But I also get the feeling that this is not everything. I don't want to take advantage of him being drunk. So I just let him sleep. I let his head lay on my chest. Maybe he's comfortable like this. We both slept like that for tonight.

The next morning, he woke up a few minutes after I did. I was done taking a shower and I was about to wake him up.

S: Where am I? Why does my head hurt?

He sounds and looks confused while just staring at the ceiling.

C: you're at Lu's. You got drunk with Guzman last night and somehow you both ended up here.

He looked at me completely puzzled.

I walked towards the bedside table and grabbed the ibuprofen and water before sitting on the bed with him.

C: Lu called me last night. Thank God for that. So I rushed here. S: Sorry about that. Did I do or say something stupid last night? C: Hmmm, you did nothing stupid but said somethings while crying. S: I cried. Infront of you? C: Oh yeah. You kept saying sorry. S: I did? What the hell exactly happened last night? C: Last night you made me promise not to leave you if Nano comes back. Do you honestly think that I would leave you after everything we've been throught? S: I just think that maybe you will, if get scared of him. Or if you don't trust me enough to protect you from him. C: That will never happen. I know you'll always have my back. S: What else did I told you last night? C: You kept saying you love me. S: It's true tho. and that's not stupid. C: Hey I never said it was. And atleast you didn't say another girls name. S: Because I'm in love with only one girl. That's you. C: Enough flattery, and drink this. You also have to get ready.

He immediately drank the medicine and showered. Good thing is that Guzman keeps a spare uniform in his car and let Samuel borrow it.

In class I caught Ander alone and we talked for a few minutes. He made me realize how much more important my life is, and how I should live it the way I want to. And that's with Samuel.

I walked towards the back near the trash can and threw Yeray's gift from last night. During dinner with my parents there was an awful silence that all of us couldn't bear. Until Yeray called me but I didn't answer.

CDad: Is that Yeray? Aren't you going to answer? C: No, I'm going to break up with him as soon as I finish my dinner. Cmom: What happened? C: What happened? Do you want to know what happened? What we've been hiding from you for weeks? Dad has practically been pimping me so that Yeray will save the winery. It's the only reason I'm with him! I don't love him, and I never fucking will!

My father was just quiet and my mom kept giving him a serious stare.

CMom: You did what Teodoro? Carla. I want you to pack a couple of your clothes and stay at your apartment for a couple of days. C: Mama. CMom: Hija, I know you love Samuel, so let me fix this and I'll call you once everything is done.

My mom got out of her chair and pulled me to the living room.

CMom: I know it's hard, but for now, don't break up with Yeray yet. Let me what I can do for now. Okay?

I nodded at her and packed my clothes as fast as I could. I got one of the car keys and drove to my apartment. I tried calling Samuel but he wouldn't answer. Maybe he's with Rebeca right now.

When I got there the I just sat there in silence. It's really hard now, since Samuel is busy doing other things so I just left him a bunch of missed calls. I laid down on the couch to try and settle for a bit. When I woke up after a few hours. Samuel was in the kitchen. Drinking beer.

Samuel

I couldn't take another minute with Rebeca. I feel sick because of the drugs that they we're packing. I took my large bag and packed my clothes for a couple of days along with all my uniforms. Rebeca tried to stop me on my way out.

Rebeca: No, don't go. This is just temporary. S: And until all this is over, I'm staying somewhere else. Maybe at Guzmans or Ander's place I don't know. Just far from here.

I left without saying another word. I didn't bother to ride my bike. I just walked and went to our apartment. Carla's apartment. I was walking slowly while thinking of some shit lame excuse to tell Rebeca if ever she sees this. But what the hell, our apartment is farther from the school than my place. Then she I saw her missed calls. I couldn't hear my phone as I put it on silent. I rushed towards our apartment thinking something was wrong. Then I saw her car. I opened the door slowly and saw her sleeping on the couch. Her cheeks stained with tears and she looks really tired. I didn't wake her cause she might had a rough night. So I took a blanket from the bedroom and placed it on her. I went to the kitchen for a drink and opened a bottle of beer then she suddenly hugged me from behind.

She just hugged me tightly without saying a word, so i held her arm to release me, then I pulled her towards the couch. She still didn't let go and laid there on my chest, still in a tight hug.

S: What happened? What's wrong? C: Can't I just miss you? S: Babe, you called me like 5 times. You never do that. C: Why do you know me too well?

She smiled bitterly. I know something is up with her.

S: You can tell me. C: The papers for the deal between Yeray and our company is being processed now. S: And? C: But there's a clause that says Yeray can pull out the investment anytime within 5 years. S: What do you mean by that? C: I have to be in a fake relationship with him for 5 years. I don't want that. I don't love him. I want to be with you. Not hiding like this everytime. S: Shhh calm down. We'll figure this out. Is that why you went here? C: Yes. But apart from that my mother found out about this deal so she told me to stay here for the meantime. S: I'm sure things will sort itself out eventually. We just have to stay strong. That's all. You'll always have me beside you. C: Thank you Samuel. For everything. S: It's my job to make you feel better. I am your boyfriend after all. C: You downgraded? I thought you are my fiancee-slash-husband? S: See you got your sense of humor back. C: Can we just stay like this for tonight? S: Ofcourse. Anything you want. C: But why are you here with the same size bag I have? S: I feel sick around my apartment now. I told Valerio and Rebeca that until they are finished, i'm not coming back there. C: But what about now? Are you feeling okay? S: Feeling a bit okay now. Plus you're here with me so I'll get better.

We stayed like that for a while till we both fell asleep on the couch.

Carla

Samuel and I both fell asleep on the couch. The next day was just like any normal day. but we decided to be friendly with each other After class Yeray wanted to hang out at the club, so I did. My mother said not to break things with him yet so I have to keep up the act for the meantime. After seeing him, I thought I can't spend another minute with him so I went to the bathroom and found Valerio dealing. He thinks I'm gonna tell him to the police or the school so he's trying to bribe me. I told him he can't bribe me cause all I wanted was happiness and love. He put up a little amount of Molly on his finger and gave it to me. It surprisingly lifted my senses. He gave me a packet full of it and left. And I used it. After that I just lost myself.

Samuel

At the club Rebeca and Valerio we're selling drugs. When she went to the bathroom I immediately told Omar to put away her bag. Which is full of drugs and went back to fake partying and drinking. I glanced at Carla who seemed to be having a good time with Yeray and dancing. Once again I felt furious knowing that she should be like that with me. Not with Yeray, but until all this is over we have to pretend to like other people. Till Rebeca pulled me and asked for her bag.

When the lights went out she told me that she caught the person who turned her mother in. Then she held my hand up. It was lit up.

S: What is this? Rebeca: It's fluorescent paint. My bag was soaked in it.

After that she finally broke things off.

The next day at school, I walked in feeling hung over and nervous as to what happened to Carla last night. She didn't come home. Did she sleep with Yeray? Then I walked in towards the classroom and saw her looking pale. I immediately walked up to her to talk.

S: Everything okay? C: Of course. S: If you're not even gonna try to hide it, at least tell me the truth. C: I'm just wonderful, Samuel. Is that better?

What is eating her? We didn't fight did we?

Rebeca passed through me and started to speak about who's seating where.

Lu walked in behind me.

Lu: I'm gonna sit with her for now. S: I'll sit with Guzman.

I sat behind Carla. Who I can't help but wonder what happened last night. Did I miss something? Or do something that I don't remember? Class started and I can't think about anything and just be worried by her. The exam was on going and I started to focus on some questions. Till she caught my attention because she tried to stand up, but Lu stopped her.

Lu: What the fuck? C: I don't know any of this shit. Lu: wake up.

But Carla just shrugged her shoulder. Lu gave me the eye and signaled me to distract our teacher so I did. I felt her gaze following me as I blocked the teachers view for Lu to switch their tablets. Then I went back to my seat and proceeded with the exam.

Carla

The morning came after that night at the club. I remember everything but a little blurry. I woke up with a huge headache as my mom opened my curtains. I took drugs. Samuel would be disappointed in me. I wanted to stay in for the day but I can't because we have an exam. So I went ahead and prepared to school. I was in class earlier than usual because I really didn't feel well. Or maybe because I need another dose of what Valerio calls Love. But either way I have to get through this exam.

Samuel walked in with a worried look on his face. Even he looks a little sick. He walked up to me and asked how I am. I know I look like shit, but I didn't want him to know that I took drugs so I put on my cold bitch face and answered him. During exam my mind was blank, I can't think of anything about these questions. Lu stopped me from going out then Samuel used himself as distraction for Lu to switch tablets with me. I ignored Samuel even when exam ended and went straight out.

Lu: Hey You owe me an A. I don't expect a standing ovation, but a thank you would be nice. C: Thank you. But you shouldn't have risked it. You didn't need to. Lu: You're not okay. I have an MA in interpreting passive-aggresive behavior. Let's see. You're crying out for help. Can you tell me whats going on? If not can you atleast talk to your real boyfriend. He's worried about you.

I was about to tell Lu, till Yeray walked in the middle of our talk.

Yeray: Guess who finally got themselves a big house fit for a party to celebrate the end of finals? Who? Lu: Who cares? Yeray: It'll be your project, baby.

I can see the annoyed or is that pissed off look on Lu's face.

C: Why me? Yeray: The house is for the two of us to enjoy this summer. The sooner you make it feel like your own, the better.

I don't want any of this Yeray. I wish I could tell you now. I have a place that I feel like is mine. It's the apartment that Samuel and I live in together. It may not be a full house with a pool and everything. But atleast that feels like home.

C: Lucky me.

He started to look uneasy.

Yeray: Are you being sarcastic? Lu: She's being herself, Darling. Meet the worst version of Carla. You should accept her and love her so much. Because someone else does. Good luck. Call me.

Then she leaned in and whispered.

Lu: Or call Samuel. Let him know what's going on. Okay?

I nodded in agreement.

Yeray: I don't know, Any girl would kill to have everything I'm offering you, and you don't seem very excited.

Any girl would. But that girl isn't me.

C: I'm sorry. It's just that I didn't sleep well last night. But everything is fine. Okay? Don't worry.

It's because of the drugs. I saw Valerio walking and excused myself from Yeray and followed him to buy more. I needed it. I caught up with him and he told me to follow him to the bathroom cause he can't risk being seen dealing in the halls. So I did. and this time he sold me another packet. I got out of the bathroom and saw a pissed off Samuel standing across from me. Once again I didn't talked to him and just walked straight past him. Since classes were done for the day, I went directly home rested for a couple of hours before dealing with Yeray again. But this time I have something that will make it more tolerable.

Samuel

Carla didn't seem like herself earlier. She even went out without talking to me or looking at me for that matter. But I know that she's not okay. That she's not feeling well. When I went out of the classroom Carla already left but Lu was waiting for me outside.

Lu: What is happening to Carla? S: I don't know. She was fine before the party last night. Lu: You don't think. S: Valerio sold her drugs? Lu: Or Rebeca. S: Lu. She wouldn't. Lu: Samu, you guys broke up last night. I know that it doesn't matter to her, but to her it does. S: Fine, talk to her, I'll find Valerio.

She nodded as she went on to find Rebeca and I went on to find Valerio. It didn't take that long. He was talking to Carla and then they both went inside the bathroom.

Is she cheating with Valerio? There's no way. It's not like Carla. So I went in quietly. I slowly peeked and saw the sight of Carla buying drugs from Valerio. I couldn't watch cause I didn't think she had it in her. I went outside and leaned in one of the lockers and waited for Valerio. She went out first and made eye contact with me. I know full well that she feels embarrassed. Maybe she knows that I caught her buying drugs. She walked past me with her head held down and then a couple of seconds later Valerio went out. I pinned him in the lockers.

S: Don't go near her again. Valerio: Why? S: Cause she's not okay! Can't you tell? Valerio: Easy. I'm taking care of her happiness. And I'm giving her a good price.

I grabbed him by the collar.

Valerio: Let go. S: You got Rebeca into this. I won't let you do it to Carla too. Valerio: Did they ask for you help? As far as I know, those two girls want you to stay away from them.

He started to hit my face with his finger violently but my temper just rose from what he did so I punched one of the locker doors and made it crack which also shut him up and made him scared.

Valerio: I want you out of my house this afternoon. Along with every little powder of drugs you have. Or else I'll report you to the police.

I was going to dial Lu's phone till I got a notification that Yeray and Carla are going to throw a party but I just ignored that. And went on to dial Lu's number.

S: Valerio gave Carla drugs last night. I just saw him sell another one to her just now. Lu: Wait they're gonna have a party later right? S: Yeah, so what? I'm not going there. Lu: Not for the party but to look after Carla. S: I have to clean up my apartment. I kicked Valerio out. Lu: Fine, but just promise me that you'll still try to go. S: I will. Thanks Lu.

I went home and as expected, Valerio cleaned up everything. But I have to double clean things. I get sick because of those drugs. Halfway through cleaning, Guzman came knocking at my door forcing me to go now. But I told him I'll catch up later and have to finish up here.

Carla

I finished my last packet. I need to go get more. I need to find Valerio. After Yeray left the room I went and find Valerio. He didn't want to sell anything to me saying that he didn't bring any to this party. I know better, he just doesn't want to sell it to me. But I need it. He walked out on me and then I bumped into Rebeca. Oh great the drug slut. She offered me a packet and I hesitated. But I need it. So I budged and bought it off of her. I immediately used it and Yeray caught me in act. But what the hell.

Yeray: Carla, What are you doing? What's that? C: Molly. Want some? Yeray: Now you're taking Molly? C: Didn't you want to live large? This is the full experience. Yeray: Full experience? Don't treat me like an idiot. I know how that makes you feel. It's great until you get the comedown. It makes you depressed. It takes ages to be yourself again. C: Dude, you sound like a health department PSA. I get enough lectures from my father. You should listen to me. Come on, you'll get totally loved up. Yeray: What? loved-- Don't ruin my party, please. C: I was just trying to be the coolest girlfriend. Isn't that what you wanted?

And then he walked out. I can't take another second by pretending to love him. After that I just took more and more.

A few minutes later I found Yeray again and he walked towards me. But I was so out of it like I wasn't in control of my body. That i'm doing everything that pops into my head.

C: Tell me you're not angry. Tell me you're as happy as I am. Holy shit Yeray, seriously. I wish you could feel what I'm feeling right now. It's as if electricity was flowing through every pore in my body. Let's take a selfie. You like that.

Yeah he likes to show off everything that he has. Including his time with me. It's like i'm a literal accessory in his life. I took the first shot while pulling him close to me. But he didn't smile so I told him to take another and this time he should smile. So he did. If he were Samuel, I'd probably just be here enjoying everything sober or just drunk.

Yeray: I don't need chemicals to be happy. You're all I need. SHame you can't say the same.

Yeah but I don't feel the same. I want to be with Samuel to be happy.

C: Come on, it doesn't matter. Some of need a bit of help to let our hair down. What's wrong with that. Yeray: Your life is perfect. I don't get why you need to take anything.

Right. My life was perfect before you, Yeray came in and ruined everything.

C: Oh, darling you're kind of a pain in the ass, you know? Maybe I need to get high just to put up with you. Yeray: With me? C: Yes, you, your prescheduled life, the fact i'm sentenced to five years with you because you're signing that contract with my father. But I accept that you're locking me up in this palace with a pool, honey. Yeray: That contract is just business. It has nothing to do with us. C: Each plan you make with me feels like another nail in my coffin. Because i'd rather be with my real boyfriend. The one that I actually love. The one who's patiently waiting for this to be over. I want to be with Samuel already. Not you.

After a couple of minutes, the information finally sank in Yeray and he left me alone in the party. I was high now and I didn't notice that it's already dark. I took a big gulp of champagne from the glass that I was holding and then nothing.

Samuel

A few hours after Guzman left i finally finished up here. I changed my clothes to blend in the crowd at Yeray's party and went there. When I arrived Guzman was about to leave but I stopped him and we both got a drink and went back to Lu.

Lu: I saw Rebeca sold Carla. S: She's had one to many today. She bought one earlier from Valerio. We have to find her now.

We split up and try to find Carla. Yeray was getting wasted on his own. But right now I didn't want to ask him. I think Carla told him everything that's why he's like that. A couple of minutes later I saw Carla drink the rest of the drink from her glass. She stood still for seconds and then she fell into the pool. Fuck. I immediately dove into the Pool and grabbed her. Guzman and Lu helped me get her out as I tried to give her CPR. I stuck my finger down her throat. This is an unusual remedy to drug overdose but it's effective. She puked the drugs out but she's a little slurry with her words. We called an ambulance which arrived a couple of minutes later. I rode with her till we reach the hospital.

Moments later she regained conciousness.

C: Samuel? S: Yeah. It's me. C: I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. S: What were you thinking? Taking drugs? C: I know. I'm sorry, I just needed it badly. I needed to be happy. S: So being with me isn't enough anymore? C: It's not that. Please. S: I thought being with me kept you going. I guess I was wrong. C: It is. I promise this won't happen again. It's just that Valerio made me try it in the club the other night. And I felt sick after that. I just needed to get through the day and taking another helped. S: And the other one that you bought off Rebeca? C: I just needed it to put up with Yeray. S: You could've just told me and I would've helped you. You know that. Don't you trust me to be there for you?

She was just quiet till her parents came.

CMom: Samuel, what happened? S: She fainted in the pool during the party but she's discharged now. CMom: thank goodness. I thought it was something else. S: Carla wanted to stay home at the mansion for now. I also have some things to take care of Tia. CMom: Ofcourse Hijo. I'll take care of her. Go get some rest.

I went closer to her and kissed her forehead before leaving. Just so she doesn't think that all this is over. I went home and rested, it has been a long night.

The next day in school, we we're required to choose career path and I chose Law. My head fucking hurts from all the drinks and Carla overdosing from drugs, Nano being on the run. Then Guzman walked in.

Guzman: Law? Really? S: I want to be a lawyer. To make sure no more assholes get off the hook. Guzman: Become a judge, and you'll make damn sure. S: What about you? Guzman: Business. But putting assholes in jail sounds pretty good too. Maybe I'll do a dual degree. S: It'd be cool to have a friend in class. Guzman: I'm not going to a public university. S: A few bar night, and I'll convince you. Guzman: no fucking way. S: But who says I'm going to a public university? Guzman: What do you mean? S: Lu offered me a sponsorship from her family a while back. I'm thinking of taking it. To go to college with Carla. Guzman: That's a nice offer. You should take it. I wish I could do the same. S: Why not? You have money. Guzman: But I don't have the same grades as Nadia. S: Then go to a school near her.

We both had a laugh. Until we heard a fight between valerio and Polo. Guzman and I both stopped them and the four of us got sent to the principal's office.

S: Why are we also getting punished? We were stopping them?

I ranted.

Polo: Principal Azucena, Samuel and Guzman were just helping. They didn't do anything wrong. This is between me, Valerio and Rebeca. Principal: Fine, Guzman and Samuel you can both leave without any punishments. The three of you stay.

We both left right away. We were also both wondering why did Polo save us. Doesn't matter. We almost didn't get to graduate. It's a good thing he did. We both went back to the classroom and sat at my usual seat beside Carla. She was just staring at the bruise on my lips that Valerio hit earlier.

Lu: What happened to the both of you? What about the others? Guzman: Polo attacked Valerio and we stopped them. But inside the principal's office, Polo said that the both of us just stopped them, Valerio and Rebeca backed him up so the principal just let us go. I don't think the three of them are gonna graduate this year.

Carla

While walking along the hallway, I bumped into Valerio.

Valerio: You don't look bad at all. Atleast not at first glance. C: I can't remember a thing. Valerio: That's normal. C: No it's not normal. I lost control. Valerio: And I helped you lose it. I'm sorry. C: No, you warned me. I'm the one who's sorry. I just found out you were expelled. Lu: But that's what he deserves. C: Yesterday wasn't his fault. He didn't even want to sell it to me. Rebeca did. Lu: I know. I saw. And sure. Well it's the first time he's had some common sense in ages. But it was too late. C: Well bye.

I walked out on them, the tension feels like I should leave them to talk. So I went on to try and find Yeray to explain. But to no luck. I tried texting him but he doesn't reply so I decided to go to his place after class.

Yeray: What are you doing here? C: What's up with you? Yeray: How'd you get in? There's nobody at the door for you to manipulate.

I threw him the set of keys that he gave me. Also so I could give it back.

C: From when you asked me to decorate the place and make it my own. Yeray: I see. Those were good times. Please take a seat. Make yourself comfortable. Why are you here, Carla? C: I came to apologize. For real. You're a great guy. Yeray: Yeray, you're a great guy. You're really worth it. Any girl would kill to be with you. Any girl except the one who says it, of course. Been there. C: I really mean it. Yeray: Carla, the last thing I need now is your pity, really. Please go. C: All right. All right. Let's stop playing the victim because you don't like me either. Yeray: Excuse me? C: You heard me. I don't like you, and you don't like me either. Yeray: And what about these last few months? What do you call that? C: You love what I represent. How well I fit in with the image you created to get likes from the people who made fun of you when you were the old Yeray.

We went on about everything as to why he thinks he likes me.

C: To be honest, I don't want to be with someone who treats me like you do. I want someone to love me because of me. I found him. His name is Samuel. And we never really broke up. Yeray: You told me that at the party. C: He sees me as me. Not because of the physical appearance. You wanted me to make this place as if this was mine. But I already have a place like that. Samuel and I have a place together. I'm trying to be honest to you.

After our talk I went to our apartment. Hoping that Samuel will be there and he is. Wearing a suit for graduation. I slowly gave him a back hug.

S: Is everything done? C: Yes. I already talked to Yeray. What about us? Is there still an us? S: I don't know. You tell me. C: What do you mean? S: Back in the hospital, you said you needed drugs to be happy. Does that mean that I don't make you happy? Am I not enough? C: That's not what I meant. I just. S: You just what? C: I don't know how to explain it to you. But I know for sure that right now. Having you is enough. Even if i'm already not sure what the future of our company holds now that I broke things off with Yeray. S: You have to think about it. Let me know later. C: We're not going together? S: I just have somewhere to be urgently. I'll see you at the ceremony.

He ran off. By the time that I arrived at the school, Yeray was talking to my father. Probably to tell him that the deal is off. But I couldn't careless now. Samuel came a little later before the ceremony but he was in a bad mood.

After graduation Yeray called a meeting with me and my father, discussing the things about the deal and how it's gonna proceed. Yeray changed the clause that indicates that he's calling the shots for the first five years and replaced it with my name. Which means now I get to control my life. My father had no choice but to sign it and then Yeray said goodbye and I went to the party looking for Samuel immediately. I found him drinking his ass off. So I went up to him.

C: Hey, sexy. S: Not now Carla. C: Why not now? You don't even know what I'm about to say.

I grabbed his hand from the rail and held it close till Polo arrived. Samuel tried to leave and I couldn't stop him. But Guzman did.

A couple of minutes later, I saw Lu disoriented. I went on to find Samuel, but a couple of minutes later, Polo fell from the window the the floor of the club. Bleeding heavily. Everyone was in shock. Guzman walked slowly towards him, the guards pushed him towards us and I pulled Samuel and told him quietly that it was Lu who did it.

By majority of the decision, we all decided to help Lu. As the night ends the police let us go. Before leaving Samuel caught up to me.

S: Carla! What did you want to tell me? C: I'm leaving to study abroad. S: Alone? C: That's the idea. But I also wanted to let you know that having you is enough for me. The deal with Yeray proceeded so we get to keep the company. S: Then that's good. When are you leaving? C: Next month. Which is why I'm asking you if we can spend my remaining days here with you? S: I'd love nothing more.

We went off to our apartment and as we both agreed, spend every minute together. Going out on dates in public, to parties and hanging out with our friends without worrying who will see us and we were both happy.

Samuel

As soon as Carla told me she was leaving, my decision became clear. To accept Lu's offer for a scholarship in the same school as hers. A week after graduation I talked to her about it, but I'm pursuing law, in which she agreed to. When All of a sudden Yeray sat on our table.

Yeray: So Lu, you're family is sponsoring his school with Carla? Lu: Yes, why you have a problem with that? Yeray: No. Actually I want to help. S: Help me how? Yeray: I want to buy you a place in Pennsylvania. Under your name so you don't have to worry about housing. And pay for your plane ticket so that you get to sit and fly next to Carla. Lu: Why are you doing this Yeray? Yeray: Because I want both of you to be happy. And this is me repaying you both for the time that I took from you. S: That's very nice of you Yeray. Thank you. Yeray: Of course. I was planning to also put your name as a stockholder of my company so you have permanent income coming in. If that's okay with you. I do have one condition though. S: What is it? Not Carla. Yeray: You'll work with me in the future. Not for me. With me. S: Sure. Lu: It's nice to see this side of you Yeray. Anyways we both have to be somewhere. Would you like to join us? Yeray: Actually I have a meeting to attend to. I just wanted to tell Samuel those things. I'll meet you next week with the details. S: Yeah. Sure. Text me the details.

Both Lu and I went on to Guzman's place where they we're all waiting.

C: Why did you come in with Lu? S: We came from the same meeting. You jealous? C: A little.

The following week, Yeray kept his promise and we both met at a restaurant where he gave me everything he said. A bank account with some money in it. It was like 50 times more than I get from working as a waiter. A title to a house in Pennsylvania under my name and flight iteneraru the same as Carla's. I asked Yeray to not tell Carla so I could surprise her the day she leaves. And he agreed. He says he's going to a university here in Spain. He can't leave to study abroad because he wants to be hands on with his business.

A couple of days past and it was almost time for Carla to leave. Or for the both of us to leave. I packed everything I needed in my luggage. I checked my luggage a couple hours earlier before she could even be in the airport. We were in the car waiting in traffic and both in silence. I can't wait to reveal her surprise. Moments later we were already here and her driver was bringing down her luggage.

S: Can I take you to the check in counter? C: Please?

We walked towards there and had her luggage checked in. We were both waiting in the boarding area till our flight was called and it was time to board.

C: I have to go. S: Yes you do. C: Why are you not sad? Are you that happy that i'm leaving? S: I am. But I know I'll see you soon. C: Damn you.

I kissed her before letting her board first in the plane. Once I didn't see her, I also boarded. I let her get settled in her seat before I did. Yeray picked the seat next to her. Basically it was a suit for two people. Apparently the ticket Carla used was a gift from Yeray.

I sat quietly but she didn't bother looking.

C: Excuse me but this is my suite and -

She cut her words once we were face to face. and she gave me a hug.

C: What are you doing here? How did you get in here? S: I told you, I'll see you soon. Cause I'm going with you. C: What do you mean? S: The meeting Lu and I had was with Yeray. Lu's family is paying for my school. Yeray is bought a place for me and gave me stocks from his company. C: You're going to school with me? S: Yes. why don't you want to? C: Ofcourse I want to. This is just unbelievable. S: Believe it. Cause it's happening. I promised that I'll always be by your side remember? I'm keeping that promise. C: I love you. Only you. S: I love you more. Always.

We were like that the entire flight. The sadness she felt before boarding earlier was gone now and replaced with happiness.

6 Years later

Samuel and Carla both returned to Spain. Lu, Nadia and Malick came back 2 years ago. Lu is now the CEO of her family's company and Nadia made their grocery store a successful chain. Guzman went on to inherit their family business. Carla stayed a couple more years with me, all the while expanding her business in America. I became a famous lawyer with a 100% conviction rate. I got hired in a big law firm in the US so I let myself rise for a couple of years and now the I'm also a managing partner. The firm wants to expand so we're expanding it here in Spain. Our first clients here are Yeray's business, Carla's winery, Lu and Guzman's family businesses, Nadia's grocery chain and Omar and Ander's Bar.

But we also came home for a couple of announcements aside from that. Carla and I are officially engaged. Her parents finally approved of us, Nano finished his sentence and is now running his own restaurant with my mother. It's also Nadia and Guzman's wedding.

Carla and I we're still happily together even after all these years. As a couple a lot of people can't believe we haven't changed. But to the world, we did. Now as professionals.

During Nadia and Guzman's wedding, I couldn't help but look at Carla. I wanted to marry her right then and there. It all happened so fast, So we had a civil double wedding. Good thing is that the couple ring that both of us had is still with us. So we used it as a temporary wedding ring.

After everything, this is how we all ended up. Happy, successful and most importantly, we all ended up how we wanted to be. Carla and I bought a mansion of our own and just finished redecorating the place and now we'll use it as our second official home. The first one was the apartment for sure. but we're living as a real husband and wife.

You made it to the end. Hope you liked and enjoyed reading it.

Season 4 theory: In Polo’s funeral, his parents offered Cayetana to study abroad and that they’d pay for everything. They also said that it’s what Polo would’ve wanted. But she insisted in staying there, saying that she wants to study there.

But in the scene where Samuel, Guzman, Ander, Omar, and Rebeka were going inside the classroom, Cayetana was shown as a janitor who followed them by gaze then she went to another room. My guess is that, the cycle they thought was broken, was incomplete. I think Cayetana will avenge Polo in S4. Add the fact that Lu embarrased her infront of a lot of people, and Lu was also the one who killed Polo. She’d get revenge to the remaining people in school, and this would cause the rest of them to come back. As for Carmuel, I think after everything, she would also go back to protect Samuel, and finally ask him to go with her.

#samucarla #carmuel #carla #samuel #samuel-x-carla #carla x samuel #carla roson #samuel garcia #elite #carmuel fic

6 notes · View notes