Chapter 3

Margaret

My old name. I wanted to be angry and annoyed by that name, but my grandmother gave it to me. She was the one who named me Margaret. She also handled my birth certificate when she found out I didn’t have a name. I remember when I was four years old, and she took me to the municipal office so I could finally have a name and surname.

I also learned that my biological father had tried to prevent it, reminding her that he didn’t want me to carry his surname, so I ended up with Lacson, my grandmother’s last name. She always told me that one day I would change my name and surname. I knew she was pleased when I did as she had said, as if she had known my future. She knew about my mother. That was the first thought that came to mind when I discovered my true identity. And now, she has arranged my marriage to an Azcárraga, and I don't know what will happen after this. I’ll just wait until I learn their conditions and why they agreed. I’m sure my biological father had something to do with their agreement, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he threatened them with some dirt he had on their family, if any.

Now, I need to get out of this suffocating mansion. It’s draining to be here. It kills my motivation.

“Well, thank you for reminding me of what I was in the past. I need to go, Father. See you next time.” I said, not letting him speak further.

Rude as it was, I softly closed the door behind me and leaned against it, taking a deep breath before heading down the stairs.

As I descended, a whirlwind of emotions raged within me. The burden of my grandmother's last will weighed heavily on my shoulders, and the impending arranged marriage to an Azcárraga loomed like an uncertain storm.

The memories of my turbulent upbringing in this mansion resurfaced, reminding me of the isolation and rejection I had endured for years. But I was no longer that timid and obedient girl. I had changed, evolved, and was determined to confront my past and forge my own path.

But marrying into the Azcárraga family was not a decision I could make lightly. I needed to know more about this prominent and powerful clan and understand their conditions for marriage. Moreover, I had to unravel the secrets that had led to my grandmother's decision and why my biological father was so eager for this path for me aside from politics.

The sound of my heels echoed through the Serrano mansion. I wasn’t surprised to find the entire Serrano clan waiting for me at the bottom of the stairs. The guests had left, and it seemed their celebration was over.

Morning, and they’re already drinking wine. Well, this is the life of being a Serrano. I observed them from the staircase, catching them off guard with my presence. No doubt, they expected me to remain in the shadows, unseen and unheard.

I ignored them and continued my descent. My silent departure from the Serrano Mansion was disrupted by my sister. She walked toward me, making me stop when I reached the carpet. I waited for her to stop in front of me, where she inspected me from head to toe with a raised eyebrow.

I realized then that I was taller than her. She’s a petite woman, sexy, and fond of revealing clothes, judging by her outfit. But in my eyes, she’s a spoiled brat. Period.

“Margaret. Margaret. Margaret. Still a nobody with your cheap black coat and fake red stilettos. How are you, older sister? Still a factory worker? You tried to escape, but in the end, you ended up in a factory. My gosh!” she said dramatically, rolling her eyes.

I maintained my silence, refusing to let her condescending remarks affect me. I had outgrown the need for validation from the Serrano family, especially from my half-sister, who had always looked down on me. Nothing has changed. A bullied one. She’s not alone either; the whole Serrano clan is like this.

If you’re talking about the Lacsons, they’re not close to the Serranos. The Serranos are too elitist, so the Lacsons prefer not to associate with them, living quietly in Negros. Only my grandmother had a connection with them, so it’s no surprise that she entrusted the farm and foundation to me.

Don’t worry, Lola, I’ll do everything to save your foundation and the farm. Maybe I’ll change the name to Lacson Foundation, not Lacson-Serrano Foundation. They didn’t contribute to the charity anyway.

I met her taunting gaze with a calm and composed demeanor, refusing to rise to her bait. Instead, I chose to take the high road, knowing that my path was no longer aligned with theirs.

“Agnes,” I finally responded, addressing her by name. “I have no interest in engaging in petty arguments with you. If you’ll excuse me, I still have matters to attend to.”

With that, I turned away from her and continued on my way, determined to escape the suffocating atmosphere of the Serrano mansion. But before I could leave, I heard the voice of the only legal wife of my biological father.

I stopped and turned to see her standing by the entrance, with Agnes and another sister by her side.

Well, I have two sisters and three brothers—two older brothers and a younger brother.

“Madame Eleanor,” I addressed her.

She smiled, as if my addressing her was a magic spell.

“Very well, Margaret. You still know how to address me despite living far from us. Now, tell me what your father said to you.”

I raised an eyebrow, realizing she wasn’t aware of her husband’s plan. Her curiosity was evident, but I had no intention of divulging the details of that encounter.

“My conversation with my father is a private matter, Madame,” I replied with a calm and measured tone. “I trust that he will convey any relevant information to the family as needed. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to go.”

Before I could turn away, Lilian intervened.

“How dare you, Margaret, for keeping secrets in this family! You act so high and mighty now, but what are you bragging about? Your work as a factory worker or being an illegitimate child of Antonio Serrano? Disgusting! We deserve to know what’s happening, especially if it concerns us!” Lilian’s voice quivered with anger and frustration.

I turned back to face Lilian, my expression unwavering. Seriously? Why would I brag about being the bastard child of Antonio Serrano? She’s right! It’s disgusting!

“I have no obligation to disclose my private conversations to anyone, Lilian. And if you truly want to know, I suggest you talk to our father.”

With that, I left them behind, making my way out of the Serrano mansion. The weight of their expectations and judgments no longer held power over me, and I was determined to forge my path, one that would lead me away from this suffocating world of privilege and secrets.

“Let’s go.”

The bodyguard waiting for me opened the door and bowed slightly. I quickly got into the car, leaned back, and closed my eyes, feeling the exhaustion from everything that had happened in that mansion.

The Serrano family’s judgmental and condescending attitude hadn’t changed; if anything, it had worsened over time. Reflecting on my grandmother’s last will and the impending arranged marriage, I knew navigating their plans wouldn’t be easy.

But I was determined to uncover the truth and honor my grandmother’s legacy, even if it meant standing up to the Serrano family. They might see me as a factory worker or an illegitimate child, but I am more powerful than them.

As the car pulled away from the Serrano mansion, I couldn’t help but wonder about the Azcárraga family, the mysterious clan I was about to marry into. I had many questions about them, but I’d find out more later, once I could rest at the hotel. I didn’t want to bother Aria just yet; she’d be utterly shocked.

For now, I needed to rest. My head ached from dealing with them, especially my father. If I hadn’t tried to be a hero earlier and chosen to rest first, my first day in the Philippines would’ve been peaceful.

As the car sped away from the Serrano mansion, I opened my eyes and looked outside the window, attempting to shake off the lingering discomfort from the encounter with my so-called family. The city’s traffic buzzed around us, a stark contrast to the quiet seclusion of the mansion.

As we approached the hotel, I couldn’t help but feel a mixture of exhaustion and relief. Finally, I could rest in my hotel room. Once we arrived, one bodyguard and I made our way to the elegantly appointed suite. I quickly took my suitcase and the key he held.

He bowed slightly and left. I opened the suite door and stepped inside, escaping the oppressive atmosphere of the Serrano mansion. The suite was a haven of peace compared to the chaos I had left behind. The soft lighting and tasteful décor added to the ambiance of serenity.

I looked around before entering and closing the door. I love it! No doubt, it was the most expensive hotel in the Philippines.

I walked towards the bed and noticed a paper on it. I quickly approached, placed my suitcase at the foot of the bed, and picked up the paper. It resembled an invitation card, so I opened it.

Welcome to Mikaelson Real Estate!

We are delighted to have you as our esteemed guest at Mikaelson Real Estate. It is our pleasure to offer you a luxurious and unforgettable experience during your stay with us.

Our dedicated staff is at your service 24/7 to ensure that your every need is met. Whether you require assistance with dining reservations, spa treatments, or transportation arrangements, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Mikaelson Real Estate is more than just a hotel; it is an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the city. We hope you take the time to explore our world-class amenities, including our renowned spa, fine-dining restaurants, and beautiful gardens.

Should you wish to learn more about the estate's history or have any special requests, our concierge is available to assist you. We want your stay to be nothing short of exceptional.

Once again, welcome to Mikaelson Real Estate. We look forward to making your visit a memorable one.

Sincerely,

Angie Ramirez

General Manager

Mikaelson Real Estate

I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and intrigue as I read the letter. The Mikaelson Estate does not sound like a place of opulence and grandeur because it was, and I was both excited and curious about my stay here at Mikaelson Real Estate.

I set the letter aside and headed to the elegant closet to arrange my things. After arranging my stuff and changing my outfit into a comfortable one, I lay down on the comfortable bed. Silently hoping that everything was just a dream, a nightmare to be exact.