Epitome Of Perfection

Sandra POV

"Wow! Doesn't she feel burdened by her legs? If I had a body like that, I might never leave the house. She should have at least exercised!"

The woman in her black dress chuckled. "Naturally! She's been like that ever since. She's used to that body, so why would she feel burdened? Besides, what if she's been chubby since birth?"

The group of women burst into laughter after their leader said that. Mockery was evident on their faces as they shot me mocking glances. I lowered my gaze.

"No wonder no one wants to court her. She's beautiful, but her body isn't. They call it a 'lollipop'-pretty face, throwaway body!"

And they burst into laughter again.

The sound of their laughter still echoes in my head as if it happened just yesterday. In reality, seven years have passed since I became the target of ridicule at my former school.

I let out a frustrated sigh as I scrutinize my body in front of the elliptical-shaped mirror, focusing on my lower extremities.

Having thick thighs and chunky arms is a struggle for me. I've had a robust physique since I was a child. I've never experienced wearing small or medium-sized clothes. It's always been double XL!

Back in college, I gained weight. Maybe it was because I always sought comfort in food. When everybody seemed to make fun of me, food became my comfort zone.

I've experienced being different in the eyes of others. I've been called chubby, plump, and hefty. After several years of being the center of attention, I should be used to it by now. I live in a world where humiliation is already a part of people's lives.

My Papa taught me not to humiliate people. Shame is a lifetime lasting effect that can be nursed but can never be cured. With the multitude of people who insulted me, I don't understand why I still can't get used to it.

But it turns out, it's hard to get used to something that will never be right in someone's eyes and feelings.

After finishing my studies, I tried dieting. Jogging here, jogging there. Zumba here, yoga there. There was some improvement. From double XL, I now wear XL clothes.

They say I'm not really that fat. Despite my large thighs and arms, they say my waist is small. But I still feel chubby. I feel like I'm the ugliest creature in the whole world.

Because if not, why doesn't any man find me attractive? Why is it that every time I try to date, I always end up hurt? Can't a woman with big arms and thighs like me be taken seriously? Does a person's figure matter for them to take it seriously?

"Sandra! Why is your face all scrunched up again?" my friend Margarette scolded me, bringing my mind back to the present.

I turned away from the mirror and looked for Marga's eyes. I found my best friend sitting on the edge of my bed while watching me. Marga's perfectly shaped eyebrows were furrowed together. I eyed her for seconds before releasing a weak sigh.

"Should I still go through with this, Marga?" I asked my friend with a subdued voice.

Marga raised her left eyebrow as she crossed her arms above her chest. "Are you crazy? Of course! Why wouldn't you?"

I pouted. "Maybe, like before, I'll get stood up. They'll just make up some excuse."

I avoided Marga's gaze and focused on my own reflection.

It's been days since Margarette set up a blind date for me. When she told me about it, she didn't have a hard time convincing me. My best friend knows that I'm a sucker for relationships, and I thought it was a good idea since I've never dated anyone throughout my entire life.

How could I experience that when no one seems to be interested in me?

I can still remember how excited I was at that time. I prepared the dress I wore then. I even went to a salon just to fix my hair and makeup. But all the efforts I exerted were put to waste.

Royce:

I'm on my way. See you!

My heart was pounding wildly inside my chest after I received that message from Royce, who happened to be my blind date. According to Marga, he's a friend of her co-worker and currently looking for a girlfriend. I got excited that we both wanted something like a relationship. I was sure this date would work.

"Ma'am, do you want to order now?" the waitress asked me for the second time.

She seemed annoyed with me because I'd been sitting there for a while without ordering anything except water.

I smiled at her. "Later, sister. My date is on his way."

She raised an eyebrow at me before turning away without saying a word.

Rude.

Minutes later, I got a text from Royce telling me that he's already here.

Me:

I'm wearing a yellow dress.

"My heart continued to pound loudly. It felt like something was tickling me. I adjusted my posture and focused my gaze on the restaurant's entrance where I could see every person entering.

More than half an hour had passed, but Royce still hadn't approached me. I kept glancing at my phone, waiting for a message from the man I was supposed to meet. My stomach was growling from hunger, but I forced myself to endure it while waiting for him. We needed to eat together.

Me:

I thought you're already here?

Did he get lost? That's impossible. The restaurant isn't that big. Besides, I described myself very clearly.

Me:

I'm the one wearing a yellow dress. Fair-skinned with curly hair.

I took a deep breath. My throat was getting dry, and my glass was empty. I was about to ask for a refill, but I knew the waitress would give me a scowl. I'd been here for an hour, yet I still hadn't ordered anything. If I did, and I ate first, it would be totally rude to Royce.

My heart thumped repeatedly when my phone beeped with a message.

Royce:

I'm sorry, Sandra. I won't be able to make it. Something came up.

My chest rose and fell with the breath I released. Remembering it still felt like a pinch in my heart. I felt strongly that Royce was already here and he saw me. He just made an excuse for not showing up. When in fact, he already saw me sitting on that chair while waiting for him. He already saw me. Specifically, my physical appearance.

That's the only possible reason, right?

"Sandra, that won't happen again. I swear! The guy I'm setting you up with is nice. Just because it happened the first time, doesn't mean it'll happen again now," Marga said, snapping me out of my thoughts.

She hugged me from behind, which brought a smile to my lips. My best friend really loves to embrace me. Maybe because she finds comfort in my curves.

I grinned at her reflection through the mirror. "Fine. I trust you. I know you won't put me in harm's way."

She giggled. "Of course! I just want you to have a love life before I get married."

Hearing those words from my best friend made me feel happy, touched, and sad all at the same time. I'm happy because she's getting married in a week to her fiancé Cole. After five long years of their relationship, they're finally tying the knot.

I'm also sad because it's impossible for me to have a love life within a week. Unless, of course, the guy she's setting me up with ends up liking me.

"I just hope nothing goes wrong," I said.

My best friend tightened her hug and smiled confidently at me. "When you go home later, you'll have a love life!"

As soon as the restaurant staff held the double glass doors for me, I stepped inside with my heart pounding in my chest.

"Thank you," I smiled at the staff.

He nodded at me and smiled. "Any reservation, Ma'am?"

"Ah, none. But I'm waiting for someone," I said with a hint of embarrassment.

I just hope he won't be rude to me because I haven't ordered anything yet.

"Alright, Ma'am. This way, please."

He led me to a two-seater table and assisted me in sitting down. I could feel my cheeks burning because of his gesture. I knew it was normal for people like him, but I couldn't help but feel a flutter of joy in my heart. It's rare for someone to do this for me.

"Just call me when you're ready to order, Ma'am." The waiter flashed a gentle smile that revealed dimples under his lips.

I nodded. "I will. Thank you."

He nodded again before turning away and walking further into the restaurant. I subtly released a sigh of relief. I scanned my surroundings. Only a few people were eating, and most of them were couples. It was obvious because of how intimate their interactions were.

Marga chose this place for us. It's my first time here, and I can say that my best friend has really good taste in choosing a venue.

The walls were painted in different hues like ash, brown, and white. There were various kinds of portraits hanging in every corner. All the tables were white, while the chairs were a simple gray. Classic but elegant chandeliers adorned the ceiling.

What caught my attention were the carnation flowers placed on every table. Their pink color brightened up the whole place.

A vibration from my phone interrupted my thoughts. I retrieved it from my pouch and unlocked the screen.

Damian:

I'm here.

All of a sudden, my heart started pounding strongly. My hands and feet suddenly went cold from the anticipation. With trembling hands, I typed a reply.

Me:

I'm already here.

I didn't need to describe my appearance to him. Marga already did. When she was at home, she texted Damian about what I would look like. I also asked Marga not to tell him that I'm overweight. I wanted him to see me in person and gauge his reaction.

While sitting, I pulled the hem of my black dress and straightened my back. My chest kept heaving up and down.

"This is it," I whispered to myself and let out a breath. "Everything will be okay, Sandra. You don't have to-"

"Sandra?"

A male raspy voice cut me out from talking to myself. I quickly raised my head, meeting his somewhat imposing eyes. A man wearing a loose black silk shirt with leather cuffs and black trousers greeted my eyes. The first thing I noticed was his rich chocolate hair, tousled in a way that promised finesse. He had strong arched brows and eyelashes so thick, it could be illegal. And then his eyes - they were deep and catastrophic, in a shade of black. He also had distinct cheekbones and an angular jaw; his pale skin made him look devilishly handsome.

The man chuckled, leaving me feeling embarrassed. 'Sandra, right?' he asked. 'Ah! Y-Yes! You must be Damian?' I asked hesitantly.

He nodded before extending his hand to me. 'Nice to meet you.'

'L-Likewise. Have a seat,' I said, gesturing to the chair across from me. He nodded and walked towards the chair in front of me. I immediately caught a whiff of his fresh, masculine cologne.

When we were facing each other, a smirk lined his lips. I saw how his eyes traveled from my face down my body. I felt a little conscious, but I forced myself to shrug it off. Soon enough, his grin widened further, causing my brows to furrow.

'M-May problema ba?' I calmly asked Damian. He continued to look at me, lips still curved in a grin. 'Wala naman. Order na tayo?' he replied.

I nodded, though I wasn't entirely convinced. 'Sure.' He called the waiter and we were given menus. I didn't bother to flip through them one by one, as I was sure I'd be ordering a vegetable salad. I wanted to show him that despite my voluptuous figure, I wasn't a big eater.

'Just a vegetable salad for me,' I told the waiter with a smile when he arrived. I emphasized the word 'vegetable' in hopes that Damian would realize I wasn't very hungry. The waiter looked at Damian, who was already looking at me with a grin on his lips.

'Sure you're only having that?' Damian asked, his voice dripping with sarcasm. 'Yes. W-Why?' I stuttered.

He cocked his left brow and exchanged glances with the waiter. They stared at each other for a few seconds, as if communicating silently. Soon after, they both shook their heads.

'Give her the damn salad,' Damian told the waiter. His voice was trembling as if he were suppressing laughter.

I wanted to ask what was wrong, and why my order seemed to be an issue for them. Didn't I impress Damian? I only ordered a little. Aside from not being a big eater, it would also be inexpensive for him. He should even be turned on, right?

But I had other thoughts in mind, yet I didn't want to dwell on them. I'd only get hurt if I tried to force them into my head.

'How old are you, Sandra?' Damian asked after placing his order. I heard that he only ordered juice and a sandwich. Maybe he's already full?

'Twenty-six. And you?' 'Twenty-nine. Working?'

I nodded. 'I'm an elementary teacher.'

The corner of his lips stretched upward, and he even wet them with his tongue. 'Nice. You must be a good role model for the kids.'

I smiled shyly. 'And you-'

My words were cut off when my cellphone, which was on the table, rang. I saw my older sister's name on the screen. I sighed and picked up, glancing at Damian. He was already looking at my phone. When he met my eyes, he nodded and said, 'Go on. Answer it.'

'Sorry, huh? Just a moment, I'll be back soon.'

'Take your time, Sandra.'

I pushed my chair back and stood up, pulling down the hem of my dress. Damian's penetrating eyes were on my legs. I felt a tinge of embarrassment when the hem of my dress quickly rose due to its snug fit.

Damn Marga for choosing this dress! I feel like a dumpling!

'Excuse me,' I awkwardly told Damian, to which he simply nodded.

I quickly made my way to the powder room and answered my overly excited cellphone.

'Sandria Olivine! What time are you coming home?' Celestine, my eldest sister, squealed, her voice high-pitched enough to shatter glass.

'In a little while, why?' I asked.

I examined my appearance in the clean mirror. I secretly thanked my stars that I still looked presentable. I was afraid I'd end up looking ridiculous in Damian's eyes.

'Can you buy me some puto bungbong from outside? I'm sure you'll pass by some. Please, bunso?' my sister pleaded with me.

If she weren't pregnant, I would have given in to her. 'Alright, ate. I'll bring some home for you.'

'Yes!' she exclaimed. 'Thank you, bunso! Take care. Bye!'

All I heard were soft, fading sounds as my sister ended the call. I shook my head before looking at myself in the mirror once more. I did a quick touch-up and decided to go back out. It would be embarrassing to make Damian wait there. He seemed like a nice guy.

A bit of conversation had passed between us, but I could already feel his goodness. He didn't seem like a man who judged a woman based on her appearance. I hope we get along.

I had a smile on my face as I left the powder room. I could already see our empty table from a distance. The food we ordered was already there. But no Damian.

Where was he? Maybe he's in the restroom too?

As I reached the table, I sat down. I examined my vegetable salad and grimaced. It didn't look appetizing. Damian's burger looked better.

But minutes had passed, and Damian was still nowhere in sight. I was beginning to feel a twinge of pain in my heart for no apparent reason. I glanced around, hoping to catch a glimpse of him, but to no avail. The waiter who had served us earlier passed by my side.

'Kuya!'

He turned to me, coming over with questioning eyes. 'Yes, Ma'am?'

'Did you see the person I was with earlier?'

He took a moment to think, as if trying to remember who I was referring to. With every second that passed as he thought, my heart pounded louder and louder.

'Ah! Yes, Ma'am. I saw him leave a while ago. He seemed to be in a hurry. He's the handsome one, right?'

I nodded. 'Did he say anything or leave a message?'

I barely paid attention to what the waiter was saying when my phone rang again. From the illuminated screen, I saw a message from Damian that shattered my heart into pieces.

Damian; 'Im sorry, Sandra. It was nice to meet you, but I don't think we'll work out. Eat the burger I ordered, instead. It's for you. Don't worry, your bill's been taken care of. Take care.'

Sandra POV

Tears kept flowing from my eyes as I sat in the taxi. Even my nose was swollen and sore from trying to wipe it with my handkerchief.

That jerk Damian! He not only left me hanging, but insulted me too! What does he think of me? Calling that hamburger his treat for me? I may be chubby, but I'm not a glutton, no!

Well, sometimes! But that doesn't give him the right to insult me. Even if he didn't say it directly, I could feel how much he disliked me. I would have appreciated it if he had just waited for me and told me the truth face-to-face. Instead, he chose to do it through a text and say we won't work out!

"Failed again, Sandra. Stop it," my trembling voice whispered to myself. I wiped the fresh tears from my cheeks.

Funny, isn't it? In my twenty-six years of existence in this world, I haven't experienced being in a relationship or knowing what it's like to be loved by a man. Yet here I am, already experiencing heartbreaks.

It's true what they say, it's about outward appearance first before what's inside. No matter how kind and decent you are, if you're not goddess-like in beauty and sexiness, it's all in vain.

"Sir, just stop by the green gate," I pointed to Marga's apartment. I planned to spend some time there because I didn't want to go home with my eyes still swollen. I'd just get scolded by my mother if that happened. "Here's my payment."

The driver frowned when I handed him one hundred. "You're short, dear. It should be two hundred!"

"What, sir!? I came from a nearby place! I thought only vegetables had their prices raised, turns out it includes fare too."

"Things aren't cheap nowadays, dear. Besides, you take up space for two people. Two hundred is just right," he said seriously, but there was a hint of teasing in his words.

Well! My temper flared because of that. "If you hadn't insulted me, I might have paid you the amount you wanted. This is why our country isn't progressing. Because of people like you!"

I quickly opened my door and stepped out without looking at the rude driver. Our doors slammed shut simultaneously. Along with that, he shouted hysterically at me.

"Hey, miss! Where's your payment!"

I walked faster without looking back. I felt like he was going to chase after me. I was relieved to find Margarette's gate open.

"Miss!"

As soon as I pushed the gate, I closed it quickly. My heart pounded wildly when I saw the driver running after me. I realized he wasn't going to let me off about the extra payment. I heard him banging the gate, disturbing the neighbors.

Oh goodness, Sandra! Why didn't you just give him the extra fare he asked for? You wouldn't be stressed like this!

I was going to pay if he hadn't insulted me, you know!

"Hey, Miss!" Manong shouted again, but I didn't look at him or acknowledge him in any way.

When I reached Marga's front door, I hurriedly opened it and went inside. "Marga-"

"Oh, shit!"

My eyes widened in shock when I caught Cole on top of Margarette, both completely naked from the waist up. They practically jumped when they saw me. Margarette quickly pushed her boyfriend away and grabbed her blouse from the floor, covering her chest.

"Sandra!" Marga exclaimed, clearly surprised.

"Oh my gosh, sorry!" I stammered in a fluster before quickly turning around. My heart beat faster due to what I had just witnessed.

Seconds of dead silence passed before I heard Cole let out a soft chuckle.

"Sorry, Sandra," Cole said, seeming almost amused by my reaction and their predicament. "You can turn around. We're already dressed."

I shut my eyes tightly, then opened them again before turning around to face them. My eyes first met Marga's flushed cheeks as she looked down. Then I saw Cole standing behind my friend with a mischievous grin on his face. They were already wearing their tops, and that helped calm my breathing.

"S-Sorry. My bad. I won't knock next time. I didn't know Cole was here," I apologized to my best friend.

"That's fine, Sandra. What you saw wasn't that bad," Cole grinned. Marga playfully smacked his arm.

My face contorted in surprise. So, it wasn't that bad? I saw him massaging my best friend's breast, is that just normal? Well, maybe for them, being close to getting married, it's just normal. They must have been doing it for heaven knows how long. While me, I haven't even experienced a hint of heaven's blessings. Not even a kiss.

"You dropped by, Sandra? Is there a problem? What happened to-"

Marga stopped speaking abruptly when she heard a noise from outside. I closed my eyes tightly, recalling the rude driver.

"What's that?" Marga furrowed her brow. I opened my eyes. She kept glancing back and forth between Cole and me.

"I'll check it out-"

"Don't, Cole! It's just the driver of the taxi I took. He's bothering me for additional fare. I came from a nearby place, and he's already asking for that much," I said with a scowl.

They exchanged glances. After a moment, Cole sighed.

"Please, hand me my wallet, babe. I'll handle it," Cole ordered Marga, which surprised me.

"Oh, don't pay him, Cole! I do have money to pay, but because he insulted me, I thought it's better not to."

He just smiled at me before taking the wallet from Marga. Cole tapped my shoulder as he walked past me, not saying a word. I furrowed my brow and watched him until he finally went out the door.

"Let him, Sands. You know him. Besides, he'll just wait for his friend. They have plans today," Marga explained, which made me look at her. I quietly let out a sigh.

"So, what happened that made you rush here? I don't remember us agreeing that you'd come here right after your date with Damian."

My face soured upon hearing that name! My steps felt heavy as I walked towards the sofa and practically flopped onto it. I crossed my arms over my chest and pouted.

"No way! Don't tell me..."

I looked at my friend after that. "I really can't take it anymore, Marga. Stop setting me up on these blind dates. I've accepted my fate."

Margarette's eyes widened. She walked towards me and sat down on the couch. "What happened?"

My mouth hung open wider as I felt tears starting to well up in my eyes. I began telling her the whole story. I kept sniffing, which slowed down the pace of my narrative.

"I wish he had just been direct with me, Marga. I could have understood better if that were the case. Instead, he just left me hanging. I looked like a fool, waiting for someone who had already abandoned me!" I said with a sniffle.

I had already used up all the tissues in the box Marga gave me because I couldn't stop crying. I suppose anyone would feel this way. Left and insulted.

I stopped in the midst of my impending sob when the door opened and Cole came in. I immediately met his gaze with reddened eyes. It was only then that I noticed another man, almost as tall as him, standing behind him. I unconsciously held my breath as the man's eyes locked onto mine, sharp and intense, like an eagle eyeing its prey.

"Good evening, Russ. Are you leaving?" I heard Marga ask.

"Yes, Marj. If that's okay with you?" that man Russ chuckled. Even the sound of his voice was so manly. It was deep and husky.

"Of course! Cole told me a while ago," Marga replied.

I kept my gaze averted, listening to their conversation. I don't know why, but I felt a sense of shame in facing them, particularly that man. It's like I thought that when he looked at me, he would just laugh at me in his mind.

This must be the result of my failed blind dates. My self-esteem is already low, and it's sinking even lower now. I've lost all my courage and confidence.

"Sandra, why is your nose red? Did you cry?" Cole asked out of nowhere, making me face them. I deliberately avoided looking at the man beside him.

I smiled faintly. "It's nothing-"

Marga lightly smacked Cole's arm. "Your idiotic friend. Leaving Sandra alone at the restaurant! Saying you won't work out. I thought he was decent!? Is there a decent person who leaves their date and insults them afterwards?"

Cole's brows furrowed as he listened to Marga's rant. He turned to me with the same expression. "He did that? In what way did he insult you?"

I shook my head. "It's nothing, Cole. Just let it be-"

"Tell me, Sands. I'll find out from him eventually," he interrupted.

So he'll find out from him anyway, why did he bother asking me? If he didn't have this man with him, I might have vented to him right then and there. Cole and I are close. Since he started dating Margarette and introduced me to him, he's never treated me poorly. That's why I really support him for my friend.

"It was an indirect insult, Cole. Just let it be. I'd rather not talk about it," I mumbled.

"When I see that man, oh! He'll get an earful from me," Marga said.

"I'm sorry, Sandra. I'll talk to him."

I lifted my head and smiled slightly at him. "It's not necessary. This will be the last time that I'll be doing this. No more blind dates."

Cole clenched his fist before letting out a breath. He turned to the man beside him, who I've been intentionally avoiding. "Damian is really an asshole, Russ."

"What happened?" Russ asked in a deep voice.

I turned my gaze away again and occupied myself with looking elsewhere.

"We set up a blind date for him and Sandra. But Damian's being an idiot prevailed once again. Mission failed."

"You know how his brain works like, Cole," Russ said.

"My fault."

My chest inhaled and let out a weary sigh. I lifted myself up from the seat. I unintentionally looked up at Russ, whom I caught looking at me as well. I'm of average height, but next to him, I felt small.

I averted his hawklike eyes and instead looked at Cole. "It's not your fault, Cole. Neither you nor Marga are to blame. You just wanted to help me. But maybe those people just aren't meant for me," I said with a smile, mixed with a hint of bitterness. "Anyway, I should go ahead. Ate Celestine has been waiting for her food. Pregnant women shouldn't be kept waiting," I added with a chuckle.

I glanced at Marga. Her eyes were sad, watching me. I gave her an assuring smile that I'm okay, even though I'm not.

"Why not come with us, Sandra? We'll be taking the same route. We can drop you off at your house," Cole suggested.

I shook my head repeatedly while waving my hand. "It's fine-"

"Sands, let us give you a ride. It's the least we can do," Margarette insisted, stopping me.

I took a deep breath. As much as I didn't want them to think that it's their fault my date turned out to be a failure, I can't control their thoughts. I involuntarily glanced at Russ. He was still looking at me, so I quickly averted my gaze.

"O-Okay," I agreed, despite the reluctance I felt.

I bid farewell to Marga and Cole. While they were talking, Russ and I just stood there, watching them. Have we been introduced to each other yet? Maybe not. That's okay, maybe it's better that way. I'm sure he's not interested in getting to know me either.

We got into a black SUV. I sat in the backseat, with Russ in the driver's seat and Cole in the passenger's side.

"By the way, Sandra. This is my friend Russell Trajano. Russ... this is Sandra, Marga's best friend. She's become a close friend of mine too," Cole introduced as Russell started to drive.

"H-Hi," I greeted shyly, looking at the back of his head.

He glanced at me through the rearview mirror, and it felt like his intense gaze was touching every inch of me. He held it for just over two seconds, then returned his focus to the road.

"Hey," he greeted back in a low voice, nodding his head. I released a faint smile.

Throughout the ride, I did nothing but listen to their conversation about something. Every time I heard Russ's deep and resonant voice, I couldn't help but be amazed. It's too manly and attractive. It suits his appearance, capable of captivating any woman - even me. But of course, I don't expect that someone like him would like or be interested in me. I've already accepted the truth that no one will take me seriously. Not in this lifetime.

"Thank you for the ride," I said to the two of them when the car stopped in front of our house.

Cole turned to face me, and so did Russell, making me feel a little uneasy. "Take care, Sandra. And I'm sorry again."

I nodded and opened the door to step out. "It's okay. I'm getting off here. Take care. Thanks again."

Cole nodded. I shifted my gaze to Russell. He also nodded at me. I smiled faintly. After I got out, they stayed there for a few more seconds before honking their horn and leaving.

I gave a simple wave. I watched the black car until it disappeared, then decided to go inside the house.

Russell's POV:

"I really feel sorry for Sandra," Cole tsked after we dropped Sandra off at her house.

I shot him a quick glance before returning my focus to the road ahead. "Why?"

"Marga and I have been setting blind dates for her but none of it become successful. I don't know. She's pretty, just on the heavier side."

"I don't see anything wrong with her figure. She's pretty with those thick thighs and wide hips," I answered matter-of-factly.

That Sandra is beautiful in her own way. Her fair skin is flawless, making her rosy lips stand out. She has round amber eyes with thick eyelids framing them. When she smiles, even her eyes seem to smile. She's got high cheekbones that become more pronounced when she's grinning. Her small yet straight nose is quite noticeable. She's around 5'9 in height. When she stood up, our eyes almost leveled. So, it doesn't really matter if she has that kind of figure. She's tall, and her being curvy isn't too obvious.

There's a shyness about her, a hesitance in her movements, and a softness in her voice. It's as if she's extra careful in showing her actions to people she faces, fearing they might say something. Her movements exude grace and purity, too.

Funny, because within those few minutes I was looking at her, I already got the chance to study her face. She was attention-grabbing when I entered Marga's house. Swollen eyes, nose like a tomato because of its redness, and pouting lips. She looked like a woman who had just gone through a breakup.

"I know. But that's what most men see in her. You know how men are nowadays," Cole sighed deeply. "How about you, Russ? If I were to set you up with Sandra, would you like her despite her being a bit heavy?"

I glanced at him. He was looking at me, waiting for my answer. I shrugged after returning my gaze to the road.

"She's not fat. She's just big boned, Cole. I don't see anything wrong with her. Or her looks. But she's not my type. You know what my standards are when it comes to girls."

I'm not the type of person who mocks others. I also don't judge people based on their appearance. It's normal for a person, especially a guy, to have standards when it comes to their potential partner. But that doesn't mean I have a problem with how other people look.

Thank God I have a gorgeous sister. She doesn't experience being ridiculed based on her appearance.

"Yeah. Women with small busts but big behinds. Seriously? What is it that you like about women who have big butts?" Cole chuckled. His nonsense question snapped me out of my thoughts.

I laughed. "I love to slap them, man."

He laughed too. "Speaking of butts, just make sure nothing fishy happens later. I might end up seeing only women's behinds. Damn, I'll be in trouble with Marga if that happens."

I secretly grinned. Our friends prepared a bachelor party for Cole since he's getting married next week. What they arranged for him is beyond my knowledge. One thing's for sure, there won't be a shortage of women there.

One last fling for the upcoming groom.

"Make the most of it. Once you're married to Marga, you won't experience anything like this again," I teased.

"I wonder if that's the same reason you're going to tell me if you let me court your sister. What do you think, man?" Cole asked sarcastically.

I shot him a quick but stern look before raising my middle finger at him. He just barked a loud laughter that made me growl in annoyance.

This guy just couldn't get over my sister.

"See? I knew that would be your reaction. Though, I can't help but think, what if you really let me court her-"

"Then should I call Margarette now and tell her that you want to marry my sister instead of her?" I interrupted his daydream.

Tss. About to get married and still thinking about other women. This guy used to tell me how much he likes Shellie - my sister. Since high school, he'd always talk about how he likes her. Even when Shellie became a young woman, Cole never stopped bothering me about her. Thank God my sister's been in a relationship since her college days up to now. She's given Cole a reason to stop. Even if my sister weren't in a relationship, I still wouldn't allow any of my friends to court her. It's a bro code.

"Fuck you. I was just kidding," he retorted, a grumpy expression on his face. I just chuckled and continued driving.

Turns out he's afraid, too.

Cole repeatedly blew air out of his mouth in the elevator. I couldn't count how many times he had done it; it seemed like he had been wrapped in anticipation for ages. I raised an eyebrow at him, only to find him staring up at the floor indicator, lost in thought.

"What's going on with you?" I asked.

He blew a loud and deep breath once more. "Do you think Flavian has something crazy planned for me?"

"How would I know? Am I Flavian?" I pointed out, referring to our friend who had organized the party for this guy.

He shot me a look. "You jerk."

I chuckled. "Look, Cole. Whatever happens later, it's between us. Margarette won't find out. And besides, if you're acting all prissy, you'd think you're not used to mischief."

"I'm a changed man, dude."

My face distorted. "Changed man my ass."

The elevator dinged. Flavian had chosen the presidential suite to accommodate all of us, about ten bachelors, I guess. A regular room wouldn't do.

When we arrived in front of the suite's door, I immediately opened it. A group of guys greeted us. Most of them were our business friends, while others were college classmates. They chatted and held bottles of beer.

"The pussy fucking whipped is finally here!" Flavian's laughter filled the room, followed by the laughter of the others. Even Cole, grinning, raised his middle finger at Flavian.

"Asshat," he muttered before walking towards our friends. They all greeted him with pure sarcasm. Cole responded with a curse.

I followed suit and flopped down onto the soft couch. I leaned against the backrest and closed my eyes. I could feel exhaustion coursing through my veins from a day filled with work.

Father had handed me most of the company's projects, constantly giving orders. Being the eldest sometimes sucks. I handle almost everything. He doesn't want to burden my younger sister too much with work, believing that I can handle it all.

I was so sure a long time ago that my sister would just be a pain in the ass the moment she helped me manage our family business. Shellie is just too focused on Theus and their relationship. Sometimes, she'll suddenly take leave without notice. I'd only find out she's with her boyfriend.

"You son of a bitch! You won't go home to your penthouse without getting drunk," Flavian quipped, pulling me from my thoughts. My heavy eyes turned to them.

Cole shrugged. "That's fine. I knew that was going to happen, which is why I didn't bring my own car. I have my own driver," he said, looking at me with a smug expression.

My raised eyebrow was accompanied by a raised middle finger. Our friends all laughed.

"So, Russ, you're a driver now!" one of our friends teased in a mocking tone.

I rolled my eyes. "Unfortunately."

All our heads turned towards the door as it opened, revealing Damian. In one hand, he held a small paper bag, which I assumed contained expensive alcohol.

"Am I late?" he asked, walking in directly.

"Late my ass, fucker. What did you do to Sandra?" Cole immediately demanded once Damian sat beside me.

I chuckled. Was that his immediate response?

Damian looked at me, brows furrowed slightly, before returning his gaze to Cole. "Who's Sandra?"

Some of our friends laughed.

"With all the girls you go through, you can't remember them all. Cole, who's Sandra?" Flavian added to the teasing.

I lazily rested my elbow on the couch's armrest, using my clenched fist to support my head. I looked at Damian with boredom, and he seemed confused while looking at Cole.

I let out a sigh. "Your blind date."

It took him a few seconds to realize who I was talking about. He paused before a smirk formed on his lips.

"Oh, you mean Sandra the fat girl?" Damian mocked.

I arched my left brow, staring intently at him. My clenched fist remained at my temple as I observed the mocking grin on his face.

"Fuck you, dude. If I had known you were going to insult Sandra like that, I wouldn't have introduced you to her with Marga. You made her cry," Cole hissed, his irritation evident in his voice.

Damian sighed. "Your fault. You didn't tell me that you and your fiancée were setting me up with a woman whose arms are bigger than mine. Yes, she's pretty. There's no doubt about that. But, damn it, Cole! Never in my life have I liked someone with that type of body. She's like a wrestler! If my ex saw her, she'd probably laugh at me. Sandra's not exactly for display!"

Cole tossed a throw pillow in his direction. It hit his face with a loud thud, causing him to swear.

"Then get a fucking Barbie doll!" Cole retorted. "You embarrassed us in front of everyone."

Damian didn't respond and just shook his head. For some reason, I wanted to smack him for talking about Sandra that way. I really didn't like it when I heard guys being so insulting towards women. I felt sorry for Sandra. If it weren't for the potential awkwardness, I might have hit Damian myself. I didn't care about Sandra. I just thought that she deserved some respect.

The celebration began shortly after. I was right to expect an onslaught of alcohol. Knowing my friends, they loved to drink. The kind that wouldn't stop until they were all completely hammered.

I joined in with them, though I felt the alcohol hit me faster due to my exhaustion from work. I could tell my companions felt the same; most of us managed companies.

I downed the shot in my glass, which contained a new type of alcohol, and slammed it forcefully onto the center table. I closed my eyes as the fiery liquid coursed through my stomach.

When I opened my eyes, I pulled out my phone from my pocket and unlocked it. I tapped the messaging app and started typing a message.

Me:

Are you free?

Less than a minute after I sent my message, her reply quickly chimed on my phone.

Shane:

I'm always free when it comes to you, Russ.

I grinned. I met Shane in one of the events I attended months ago. Just what I always like, her big butt got my attention. She's tall like me and looked elegant in her black see-through dress. The way she looked at me that night, I knew that she's up to something. I wasn't wrong when she approached me to introduce herself. I was a bit turned off by her move. She didn't even wait for me to approach her and make an introduction.

And then I realized that most women today are fierce and wild. There are only a few who are demure and simple. Very few.

Shane and I don't have a relationship. We're just simply fuck buddies. I like her. She likes me. But no love involved. No complications. No problems. When either of us craves intimacy, a simple text and she'd come right away. She's fine with that setup, too. She's not demanding and doesn't seek anything in return like other women. That's why I like her even more. She's too cool to be true.

Me:

Grand Hyatt Manila. Text me when you're here.

Shane:

On my way, sexy. :)

"You're grinning like an idiot again, Russell! I'm going to guess. Is that Shane?" Flavian asked, snapping my attention away from my phone.

The edges of my lips turned upward. "Who else?"

"Why don't you take her seriously? She's pretty. Comes from a wealthy family. Smart, too. What else do you want?" another friend of ours asked.

"Not wife material, man," was my simple reply.

Cole laughed. "Unlike Marga. Beautiful and sexy, and wife material. I'm such a lucky son of a bitch-"

Cole stopped talking abruptly when the lights suddenly went out. At the same time, red lights illuminated from where our source of light was.

"You son of a bitch, Flavian! What kind of nonsense is this again!?" Cole exclaimed, clearly annoyed.

We all laughed. As if we were all thinking the same thing. Even if no one said it out loud, we knew what might happen later.

In the midst of the red light, we saw the door open. Some of us moved aside as the women entered one after the other, wearing outfits that only covered the most sensual parts of their bodies.

"Oh, shit! You've got to be kidding me..." Cole whispered in bewilderment.

"This is your last taste, buddy. Don't worry, no one's getting out," Flavian said.

The four women moved towards Cole. They were all wearing masks that concealed their faces and identities. They walked slowly, matching the sensual rhythm of the music around us.

We can get a little crazy just for fun

Just for fun

Don't even try to hold it back

Just let go

Tie me up and take me over

Till you're done

Till I'm done

You've got me fiendin'

And I'm ready to blow

Cole's eyes widened in shock as the girls gathered around him, caressing him in his most private parts. He didn't know where to touch, so Flavian guided his hands to one of the girl's behinds. We burst into laughter.

Small butt.

Hold me up against the wall

Give it till I beg

Give me some more

Make me bleed, I like it rough

Like it rough, rough, rough

Push up to my body

Sink your teeth into my

Flesh

"Fuck," he cursed, which made us laugh. "My fiancée will kill me for this!"

"One last ride, man. That's alright," Flavian said, unable to stop laughing.

Cole used to be a playboy. He only changed when he met Margarette. Marga is too strong-willed, which is why I understand why he acts this way now. He's afraid of her. But I know that he's so much in love with her. They're getting married, after all.

My phone vibrated in my hands, interrupting my view of them. I opened it immediately and found a message from Shane.

Shane:

Lobby.

Me:

Got it.

I locked my phone and pushed myself off the couch. Since my friends were all busy watching the show, I slipped out of the room easily. They didn't even notice me making my way out.

I stepped into the elevator and went down to the lobby. I wasn't surprised that Shane arrived here quickly. Her condo is just nearby.

Minutes later, the elevator stopped. It opened, and I immediately stepped out. My lips formed a smile when I saw Shane sitting elegantly on the couch, reading a magazine. Her creamy, long legs were crossed. Even from a distance, you could see how smooth they were. Her blonde, layered hair flowed around her shoulders. She was only wearing a white floral dress, but she still exuded sex appeal.

When she sensed my presence, she raised her head, and our eyes met. She smiled and stood up. I grinned. The moment I reached her, I snaked my arm around her slender waist and claimed her lips in a passionate kiss that lasted a minute.

"What can I do for you, sexy?" Shane asked playfully, biting her plump lips. Her eyes sparkled as she looked at me.

The corner of my mouth twitched. I caressed her smooth cheek with my thumb. "Pleasure me," I murmured.