Taking a deep breath, Maiari spoke, "The father of my baby is D'Andre."There was a collective gasp of surprise in the room. Even Maiari’s friends seemed taken aback by the revelation. Her aunt and uncle eyebrows shot up, Maiari’s gaze shifting between her uncle and aunt."D'Andre?" Aunt Daisy repeated, her voice tinged with shock.D'Andre cleared his throat, his eyes never leaving Maiari's face. "It's true. That’s mine."Maiari continued, her voice steady as she addressed it directly, "I understand if this comes as a shock-”Aunt Daisy cut her niece’s words, eyes softened as she looked at Maiari, then at D'Andre. "No, no, no. I’m totally fine with D’Andre being the father. Uhm, sorry. Uhm… well, it's actually what we were expecting, I mean it’s not, kinda, but yeah, it's clear that both of you are willing to step up and take responsibility. That's a good start."Maiari nodded, her heart feeling lighter with the support she was receiving from those around her. She looked at D'Andre, g
Maiari's heart skipped a beat, a mixture of emotions swirling within her. "D'Andre, I don't want empty promises. I need someone who's sure, who's truly committed."He nodded, determination shining in his eyes. "I understand, Maiari. I won't make promises I can't keep. But I promise to be there for you, every step of the way. And if you'll have me, I'll work on being the partner and the father of this you deserve."A tentative smile tugged at Maiari's lips, her eyes shimmering with a mix of emotions. "You really mean this?"He nodded, his sincerity evident in his gaze. "Yes, Maiari, I do."As a comfortable silence enveloped them, their words lingered in the air, leaving behind a promise of a future they were both willing to explore together. But as the night wrapped around them, D'Andre's heart grew heavy. He couldn't shake the sadness that welled up within him as he realized that Maiari's plans to return to El Nido meant a growing distance between them."Anyway, forget about the marri
The two older men shared a hearty laugh, but Catalina's expression remained resolute, her irritation evident."Oh, darling," Frank's tone softened, a fatherly concern evident in his gaze. "You need to let go and move on from D'Andre. He's going to be a father now, moving on a new chapter of his life as he should, and as you should too."Catalina's frustration simmered just below the surface as she retorted, "I thought discussing 'that thing' wasn't allowed here."The topic shifted as Kendrick inquired, "So, what brings you to our domain, Catalina?"Catalina's eyes briefly flickered to her father before answering, "I walked out of the classroom. The air-conditioner broke down during the discussion. It's sweltering in there.""Consider it done, my dear. I'll have it fixed immediately," Frank assured her with a fatherly smile. "We can't have you fuming in a hot classroom.""Sounds better than fixing my anger issues towards that fucking Taylor ‘cause that would be a whole other challenge.
The evening was alive with anticipation as D'Andre arrived at the event, the grand banner announcing the guest speakers, Mr. Frank and Mr. Kendrick, catching his eye. It was a prestigious gathering, one that held the promise of networking opportunities and forging connections that could propel his career to greater heights.Adjusting his tie with a final glance in the rearview mirror, he stepped out of his car. But his anticipation was short-lived as another vehicle abruptly pulled up, and D'Andre's irritation flared. He waited impatiently to see who it was, and as the sleek car door opened, he recognized the familiar figure that emerged.Taylor, ever the embodiment of nonchalance, strolled out of the car, casually removing his black shades. "Well, well, well, it looks like the CEO's son decided to grace us with his presence," he remarked with a smirk.D'Andre couldn't help but chuckle. "With you around, trouble always finds a way, doesn't it?"Taylor's response was a nonchalant shrug
Maiari sat in her room, a sense of unease gnawing at her. D'Andre had assured her repeatedly that Catalina wouldn't be attending the event. But still, doubts lingered in her mind like stubborn shadows refusing to dissipate.Her thoughts drifted back to earlier in the evening when she had helped D'Andre choose the perfect suit for the event. As he had buttoned up his crisp white shirt, she couldn't help but ask the question that had been weighing on her."Who else will you be with tonight?" Maiari's voice had been gentle, cautious.D'Andre, busy adjusting his tie, had paused for a moment, his brow furrowing in thought. "Honestly, I'm not sure. Mr. Frank didn't mention anyone else. Maybe just some of his colleagues."Maiari had felt a pang of doubt but had chosen to keep it to herself. After all, Catalina was Mr. Frank's daughter, and it was entirely possible that she wouldn't be present at the event. She had silently continued helping D'Andre, making sure every detail of his outfit was
"Someone's hitting on you?" D'Andre's curiosity was piqued once again. "Really? Who is it?"Catalina held back a mischievous grin. "I'm not ready to reveal that just yet. But let's just say it's been a pleasant surprise."D'Andre chuckled, genuinely happy for her. "That's great to hear, Cat. You deserve happiness."Their conversation took a more serious turn as Catalina's expression became earnest. "D'Andre, promise me something."He nodded, his gaze fixed on her. "Anything.""Take care of Maiari, and love her more than anyone else. She's a wonderful person, and you two are perfect for each other."D'Andre's eyes softened with sincerity. "I promise, Catalina. I love Maiari deeply, and I'll always do my best to make her happy."Catalina's focus then shifted to another topic—one that intrigued D'Andre. "By the way, have you heard about our fathers' plans for a new company?"D'Andre's brows furrowed in surprise. "A new company? My dad hasn't mentioned anything about that."Catalina nodde
As they emerged from the bathroom, Catalina still had a playful glint in her eye, her earlier bout of dizziness seemingly forgotten. She playfully blamed her heels for the momentary lapse in balance, her tone teasing. "Oh, I just said you should be careful," D'Andre quipped, amusement dancing in his eyes.Catalina, ever the spirited conversationalist, shot back, "I'm okay, Drey. Maybe the problem is my heels."D'Andre couldn't help but chuckle at her quick retort. "Tsk, oh come on, Cat. Don't blame the shoes. You're drunk, admit it."“I am not.” Catalina snickered, slightly hitting D’Andre on his chest.D'Andre, however, wasn't going to let her off the hook that easily. He chuckled, shaking his head. "Come on, Cat, I said don't blame the shoes. We both know the real culprit here."Catalina, always one to hold her ground, grinned mischievously. "Oh, please, Drey, I've got this. Watch me."Their banter continued as they made their way back to their table, their laughter echoing through
Maiari's heart ached at his endearment. She had always been a sucker for his sweet words, his charming gestures. But tonight was different. She couldn't bear to look into his eyes, to confront the lies that lay beneath the surface. "I'm okay," she replied tersely, offering no further explanation. Without another word, she turned and made her way upstairs to their bedroom. D'Andre watched her retreating figure, a knot of unease settling in the pit of his stomach. He knew he had some explaining to do, but he needed a moment to gather his thoughts. "I'll follow," he finally said, offering a feeble excuse about needing a shower. Alone in the bedroom, Maiari couldn't contain the tears any longer. They flowed freely, her body shaking with the weight of her emotions. She had trusted D'Andre with her heart, had believed in their love, and yet he had betrayed her trust once again. The pain was unbearable, the feeling of betrayal like a dagger through her chest. She thought back to the beginn