Upon Erica’s (Kaila Estrada) arrival at her unit, the man waiting for her turns out to be Marco (Race Matias), unyielding in his protection of her despite her consistent refusals.
Uneasy about the possibility of Edong’s (Jake Cuenca) infiltration, Marco notices the MABEL friendship bracelet on Erica’s wrist, commenting that it might only provoke the vengeful Edong further.
Calmly, Erica explains that she didn’t wear it to trigger Edong and thanks Marco for guarding her, while adding a subtle note of disapproval for his overprotectiveness. Determined, Marco insists that she needs backup, and Erica eventually concedes.
In the morning, the two share cordial greetings and subtle jokes and converse about Edong once more, with Marco hinting that he’ll stay as long as needed until the coast is clear of Edong’s lurking.
Soon after, the brief peace ends when someone calls Erica to ask for permission for an unknown visitor to meet her—which she grants, inviting the visitor to her unit. As she rushes to change her clothes, Marco prepares a gun in anticipation of the possible danger that looms.
The door finally opens to a displeased Lucas (JM de Guzman), who quickly brings up Erica’s famed statement at the recent press conference, in which she called out to Edong. Wasting no time, Lucas offers to help Erica find Edong, knowing full well that the police might kill his brother on sight.
A brief flashback shows Lucas with an informant, instructing him to find Edong before the NLEA police or Lawrence Kyo do—going so far as to pretend to be Erica’s and the public’s ally.
Despite remaining resolute in her belief that Lucas is untrustworthy, Erica agrees to a temporary alliance, though she does not fully let her guard down.
Don’t miss an episode of “What Lies Beneath,” weeknights on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live (KOL), A2Z, TV5, and iWant.