Chapter Two

Chapter Two

Located in one of the most high-end subdivision is a modern-minimalist themed 800-square meter mansion that serves as the home for the elite Parri Family.

The whole lot area measured at around a thousand square meters with beautifully landscaped yards, a wide pool, a spacious garage that sheltered the family’s collection of luxurious and vintage cars, and a well-groomed garden full of expensive orchids and plants.

“Where is Thomas?” Madam Carolina, the head of the household, asked upon noticing that one of her grandchildren was missing.

Eating together is a must in this elegant household, especially if the Madam is home. No one is allowed to lift a spoon if there is one empty spot.

“I’m here Nana...” Thomas announced as he walked his way to give her a kiss on the cheek.

Then Thomas made his way to sit on his spot so they could peacefully enjoy breakfast that was prepared by Bridgette – Thomas’ mother.

Other than being part of the elites, the Parri family is known for their dedications to big and extravagant events. Breakfast itself was a full-course meal – they had chicken salad for appetizers, lamb Bolognese with feta and mint for main course, and a slice of cinnamon cake for dessert.

“I really love your cooking dear...” said the Madam to praise her daughter-in-law. “Now I see how you managed to make my son, Abraham, stay loyal to you.” She chuckled.

“If only my cooking skills were half as good as yours, then maybe my Eduardo would not dare to seek comfort in some other woman’s arms.” she sighed.

“’Ma, Papa is dead. We should just let his soul rest.” Benedict, Madam Carolina’s youngest son, spoke.

“Yes, he is, but how can I move on if one of my sons carried his father’s womanizing gene?” the Madam replied, then she raised her brow and glanced at him.

“’Ma, it’s not my fault that women throw their selves at me.” Benedict chuckled. “My dear brother, Abraham, used to be like me before he married Bridgette,”

“It’s true brother. My lovely wife set the road straight for me,” Abraham spoke. “...and I am very much in debt to her.” then he glanced at his wife and stole a kiss from her cheek. It was a little unexpected so Bridgette blushed.

This is the usual scenario during breakfast at the Parri’s. Madam Carolina would always bring up her late husband, then she would reprimand her son, Benedict, for taking after his father.

“I just hope that my Thomas, doesn’t get the womanizer gene,” The madam opined as she shifted attention to him.

“Trust me, Grandma. He did not,” Antoinette, Thomas’ older sister, said. “...but he did get the gene of martyrdom.” She chuckled. 

“I already told you. Veronica isn’t as bad as you imagine.” Thomas defended. “If you give her a chance, I’m sure you’ll get to know her better.” he convinced as he looked at her.

Antoinette shook her head and responded. “No, thanks little bro,” 

“Veronica?” The Madam asked. “Are we talking about the illegitimate daughter of Geraldo Simson?” she asked.

Thomas sighed. He understands that his grandmother only aims to ask a question, but he could not help but feel bad for it sounded like she was criticizing her. “Yes, but please don’t call her that Grandma. Veronica is a nice woman.”

“No nice woman would leave her man waiting for her without assurance,” Antoinette spoke again.

Amongst all the family members, it was his sister who was very vocal about her dislike of Veronica.

Thomas took a deep breath. “She will come back, and I trust her.”

“Really, dear brother?” Antoinette asked. “I think I heard that she was seen acting lovey-dovey with the infamous Matthew Salazar,” she teased.

The atmosphere between the two was starting to get filled with tension. Bridgette knew that she had to step in or else the disagreement between the two might worsen.

“That’s enough,” She spoke. “Stop talking about bad things, especially in front of food,” she reprimanded.

The two stopped at once and minded their own business. Bridgette looked at her mother-in-law and gave her an apologetic look. In return the Madam just smiled and nodded.

After eating breakfast, Thomas excused himself since he needed to attend to an urgent business gathering. He was feeling a little upset because of his family’s words, so he just convinced himself that they will eventually like his girl.

Then he walked his way to the patio to see his secretary. Jonas immediately stood up and greeted him. "Good morning, Sir.”

Thomas smiled and nodded. “What are my engagements for today?” He asked.

“You have five meetings with different investors, sir.” Jonas informed as he walked towards him to show his itinerary and said “I believe we’re running late for your first appointment sir.” 

“If that’s the case, then we’ll travel via chopper,” Thomas replied as he walked his way to the helipad.

“That would not be possible, Sir. We don’t have a pilot,” Jonas said as he followed him from behind.

Thomas smirked as he loosened his tie.

“I’ll be the pilot.” He smiled.

Aside from being good in handling corporate businesses, Thomas is also a licensed pilot. In fact, he has two bachelor degrees. One is from majoring in Business Administration and Finance, and the other is when he went to an aviation school.

Five minutes later, a silver-colored Augusta Westland AW119 Ke Koala chopper plane safely landed on top of the Benett Tower.

“I never knew that you could fly a chopper, Sir!” Jonas exclaimed, then Thomas chuckled.

“There is still a lot that you need to learn about me, Jo.” Thomas chuckled as they walked their way to the elevator to head to the meeting venue.

“Good to see you, Thomas,” Mr. Sy greeted as they shook hands together. 

“Likewise, Mr. Sy,” Thomas replied.

“Such a good-looking man,” Mrs. Sy exclaimed. “You and our dearest Annie would make a good couple,” she mentioned.

The Sy’s are one of the many families that hopes to have their daughter betrothed to him. Who wouldn’t want to have a man like him as an in-law? He’s rich, loyal, business minded, and a gentleman.

“You have a lovely daughter Ma’am, but my heart stays loyal to one woman.” Thomas smiled.

But just like everyone else, Thomas declined.

After that they went on with the discussion for the future expansion plan of one of the buildings, and when they finished, Thomas made his way to his next appointment.

“Here’s your ride, sir.” Jonas said, then handed him the keys of his Black Shiny Ashton Martin Superleggera.

“Are there any calls for me?” Thomas asked as he walked his way to the driver’s side.

“I’m afraid there are none, sir.” Jonas replied. 

Thomas sighed then boarded the car. He fastened his seatbelt then started the engine. Then he looked at Jonas who was still standing outside the car.

“Are you not getting in?” he asked as he rolled the windows down.

Jonas shook his head and smiled. “I’ll just meet you at the office, sir.”

Upon Thomas’ arrival at the office building the staff and personnel greeted him. He then boarded the elevator and made his way to his office to attend to business matters.

He would check on his phone from time to time to see if there were message notifications from Veronica.

He paused for a while and stared at the mini-portrait that was standing on his desk— a beautiful photograph of Veronica.

It’s been two months since the last time he personally saw her. He could easily take a plane and go to her but their schedules just seem to crash with each other’s. Every time he gets a free day Veronica either has a photoshoot or an interview.

Then he shifted his attention to the velvet box that he pulled out from the pocket of his coat. 

With or without the approval of his family, he plans to propose to her when she returns to the country. His love for her exceeds everything else— he's willing to go against the odds just to be with her.

His thoughts were interrupted by the sound of his ringing phone. 

You have two unread messages...

From: Veronica

Hi Babe! 

Sorry if I could not answer your calls. Everything is just so hectic.

I miss you! Love you! See you soon.

“Love you more,” Thomas whispered to the wind.