Nala’s Point of ViewI took a deep breath while gripping the gun tightly. I held back my trembling hand and forced my eyes to focus on the red target in the distance. I closed my eyes for a moment to calm myself before slowly squeezing the trigger, causing my body to slightly recoil from the impact.Even though I was wearing ear protection, I could still hear the faint clicking of Hugo’s annoying tongue movement. I removed my eye protection and ear gear and faced him, a trace of disappointment evident on my face.“You didn’t even hit the edge of the target, Nala,” he said, shaking his head before walking towards me.I rolled my eyes and ran my tongue inside my cheek.“Sorry about that. I guess I’m just not as skilled as you are. You know, I’m still a beginner,” I sarcastically remarked.He raised an eyebrow. I couldn’t tell if he picked up on the sarcasm in my voice or if he simply chose to ignore what I said.He approached me and put the ear gear back in my ears and the eye protectio
Nala’s Point of ViewI hugged my legs while sitting on top of the queen-size bed, leaning my back against the headboard. My chin rested on top of my knees as I stared blankly at the Korean mukbang playing on the smart TV that I connected to YouTube.“I’m getting hungry,” I muttered, unable to bear it any longer. I stood up and turned off the TV using the remote control in my hand.I thought that mukbang would satisfy my hunger, but it seemed to only make it worse. I want to curse Hugo for taking me to that restaurant that seemed to skimp on their customers, yet the prices were higher than my salary!It’s already midnight. Almost everyone in this penthouse building is sound asleep. I had fallen asleep earlier, but I woke up when I heard my stomach growl in the middle of my sleep.I get out of bed and put on my frog-designed slippers. These were the ones Hugo used when he had an urgent online meeting. I slowly open the door of my room to avoid making any noise that might wake up Hugo, w
Nala’s Point of ViewI couldn’t wipe the smile off my lips as I read the nutrition facts on the back of the products here in the grocery store and placed them in Hugo’s pushcart.“Can you please go faster, Nala? Just put it in the cart and move. Don’t mind the price,” Hugo demanded irritably while still pushing the cart, which was almost full.I faced him and raised an eyebrow. “Stop being a dictator. You’re not the law, so keep quiet. You’re the one who thought of this, so don’t complain,” I said, continuing to choose what to buy.I was looking at the expiration dates because I didn’t want to purchase something that was about to expire. We don’t want to risk getting food poisoning and ending up dying because of it.Last night, or rather, early this morning after Hugo scolded me, he told me that we would go grocery shopping today so that I wouldn’t have to go out at such hours. He also said that we won’t have training for now in order to do this. He suggested that I consider it my res
Nala’s Point of ViewThe deafening silence envelops the space between me and Hugo. Other than the hum of the air conditioner, there’s nothing else to be heard in the four corners of his room.I’m dead serious as I gently dab the clean cotton balls soaked in alcohol on the side of his stomach, where there’s a slightly deep cut that I know came from a sharp blade. I don't know where it came from because I haven’t asked Hugo yet.After I finished cleaning his wound and applying betadine, I covered it with gauze to prevent any further exposure to the wind that could introduce airborne germs.I stood up, carrying the small basin filled with warm water that I used to clean his wound. Still not saying a word, I went into the bathroom to dispose of the used water and proceeded to wash the towel, which I then hung on the towel rack to dry.After washing my hands, I stepped out of Hugo’s bathroom, which was previously filled with blood from his side. I looked at him. He was currently seated on
Nala’s Point of ViewBack when I was a kid, I never dreamed of holding a gun. I also never dreamed of ruining my life again, but maybe this is really my destiny. Ever since Mama died and left us, it never crossed my mind to go back to my old life because I wanted to make it up to her even without her around. I wanted to show her that I could fulfill her last wish.I closed my eyes tightly while gripping the gun tightly. I knew this was the right time to show the result of months of training. It’s like a final exam for my side because this is where I can show what I’ve learned. This is where I can measure how far I can go.I admit that I’m nervous and scared because I know that one wrong move could cost me my life. I feel like my stomach is flipping as I think about what could happen to me, but I need to remind myself that I can’t let fear take over. I need to be strong for myself.“Don’t pull the trigger unless it’s necessary, Nala. I’m with you. I won’t let you get hurt. As much as p
Nala’s Point of View“I can do it myself,” I said while trying to snatch the spoon from Hugo.“No, I will feed you,” he said coldly, causing my eyebrows to furrow, but I quickly brushed it off.“I can eat by myself, I insist,” I continued to insist.“I said, I’ll feed you. Stop being stubborn!” He said it seriously and slowly brought the spoon with food to my mouth.I took a deep breath before accepting it. I don’t know what his problem is. He’s been serious since he entered my hospital room. It’s like he’s going to explode for no apparent reason when I touch or talk to him.I just woke up, and he’s already like this. Tsk!After feeding me, he made me take the medicine prescribed by the doctor earlier. I insisted that I could do it myself, but he scolded me again, just like he did earlier, so I couldn’t do anything about it.It's just the two of us inside the room because he asked Rocco, Callum, and Dominic to leave.“How… how many days was I asleep?” I cautiously but weakly asked him
Hugo’s Point of View“Hey,” I muttered as we entered my condominium. Nala’s calmness is bothering me so bad, fuck!She looked at me without saying a word. I can’t read what she’s thinking, even though I am now looking at her beautiful yet emotionless chocolate eyes.“What is it? Do you have something to?” She asked coldly.I can’t help but feel amused and nervous at the same time. I’m amused because she doesn’t know how hot she is with her cold expression registered on her face, yet I’m nervous at the same time because I don’t want her to be like this.I gulped. “Are you mad?” I asked gently.She shook her head, adding to the anxiety in my chest.“Don’t worry about it. I’m going to rest now.” She turned her back to me, but I didn’t let her foot step away from me. I hold her wrist.“I’m sorry,” I said, but I’m not fucking sincere. If I were to decide, I’d stick with my plan. I want her to live with me in my house, not for my personal reasons but for her safety.I don’t trust Lawrence.
Nala’s Point of ViewI watched as the car where Hugo was drove further away before I went inside the house. I used the key that was always hidden in the hanging pouch with beautiful flower petals next to the door.I couldn’t help but smile, seeing that my plants still looked beautiful even after being gone for months. I’m sure Lawrence took care of my plants here while I was away.“Nala?”I was about to go inside when someone suddenly spoke behind me. I turned around.“Oh, Aling Iska, good afternoon,” I greeted her politely and smiled as soon as I recognized who she was.Aling Iska used to take care of Nadine before my sister got sick. I used to leave Nadine with her when I went to school. She lived next door to Aling Perla, who owned a convenience store where Lawrence and I used to hang out.“Oh, it’s you!” My eyes widened as she suddenly embraced me. She even dropped the plastic bag she was holding because of the sudden hug.I swallowed nervously. “Uh, is there a problem?” I asked,
Hugo’s Point of ViewAs I sit on the terrace of my condo unit, sipping a glass of rum, I am captivated by the city of Brussels, Belgium.The Grand Place, with its ornate buildings and intricate facades, is a true masterpiece. The Atomium, a modern marvel, stands tall in the distance, symbolizing the city’s forward-thinking nature.The streets are alive with the sound of laughter and chatter as locals and tourists alike explore the countless shops and cafes.The scent of Belgian waffles fills the air. As the sun sets, the city comes alive with a kaleidoscope of lights.It’s been two years and three months since I moved here to give Nala the space she wanted. Honestly, it’s hard without her by my side because I know that she’s my strength that keeps me alive, yet I need to respect her decision.I know that she loves me. I still hold on to the words she said to me before—that she loves me. I’ll do whatever it takes to make her come back to me. I believe that we are meant to be together.
Nala’s Point of View“I’m sorry, Hugo…” Those were the first words that came out of my mouth as I looked into his eyes.Tears welled up in my eyes as I remembered everything that had happened before. How we were happy in each other’s arms. How we overcame all the challenges together and how I gave up so quickly.I bit my lower lip and lowered my head. He didn’t respond, so I spoke again. I wanted to say everything I wanted to say before it’s too late.“I’m sorry for hurting you back then. I’m sorry for being too much and not thinking about how you felt. I didn’t realize that you were also hurting from Lorcan’s death.”“L-Lorcan?” he asked.I smiled, but it didn’t reach my eyes. “Lorcan is what I named our child. Lorcan Amani Cabral Fabellon.”His eyes widened, seemingly unable to believe what I just said. “D-Did you really follow his last name with me?” he asked in disbelief.I bit my lower lip and nodded slowly. “Yes, I did. Because I know you deserve it. Lorcan is our child… You’re
Nala’s Point of ViewI smiled at my reflection in the human-sized mirror, admiring myself in the royal blue evening gown that Uncle Gael sent earlier for the event I would be attending tonight with Mr. Joseph Zuniga.I was in awe as I continuously gazed at the gown, as if it were a bubble that would disappear if I blinked my eyes.The gown features a strapless sweetheart neckline that accentuates my shoulders and collarbone. The bodice of the gown was perfectly tailored, hugging my waist and creating an elegant silhouette. The skirt, on the other hand, was floor-length and in an A-line style.I also noticed that the fabric used was luxurious satin, which I’m sure was more expensive than my monthly salary. It didn’t itch on my skin like other expensive clothes tend to do, and it was adorned with intricate beading and sequins that created a shimmering effect under the lights.The gown also had a low V-shaped cut at the back, exposing my fair skin. I kept my makeup natural to avoid looki
Nala’s Point of ViewMy eyes widened as I recognized that deep baritone voice. I held my breath as he slowly turned towards me, confirming my suspicion.I didn’t know how to react. I didn’t know what to feel. My normally rational thoughts became jumbled in the face of this sudden turn of events.I swallowed hard as my heart rate quickened upon meeting his gunmetal blue eyes, eyes that I used to love so much.Just moments ago, I was thinking about him, and now he was standing right in front of me. It had been three years since I last saw him, and I could say that he had changed physically.His face had become even more mature. From his eyes, which used to seduce, to his thicker eyebrows and pointed nose, which had become more defined, his lips are now even redder In a natural way. I also noticed that his chest had broadened and his physique was becoming more sculpted.I noticed all of this within a few seconds. I couldn’t bring myself to speak as I stared into his cold eyes, eyes that
Nala’s Point of View“Hey, just follow us, Nala, okay? We’ll wait for you there,” Jenna reminded me, already prepared to leave with our other colleagues.I smiled and nodded at her. “Okay. Take care, everyone!” I added.Once they had left, I continued packing up my belongings on my desk. It was already three in the afternoon, and we were about to leave work. We always leave early on Fridays because there’s no work at the office the next day.Just as I turned off the lampshade on my table, my cellphone, which was inside my bag, started ringing. I picked it up and quickly answered the call when I saw the name flashing on the screen.“Hello, Uncle Gael?” I greeted as soon as I answered.“Hello, dear. Did I disturb something?”I shook my head, even though he couldn’t see me. “No, Uncle. I’m actually about to leave. Do you have any orders for me?”“Can you come to my office, dear? We just need to talk about something in person; it’s kind of important.”“Sure, Uncle. Just wait for me.”“Oka
Nala’s Point of View“Eat something, Nala. You’ll get sick if you keep doing this,” Lawrence said after knocking from outside my room here at my house in Parañaque.“Leave me alone, Lawrence. I can take care of myself. Go away!” I shooed him away for the umpteenth time while I was wrapped in a blanket.Ever since he came over at nine this morning, he hasn’t left me alone. He keeps knocking, and I’m starting to get irritated.I came here after talking to Hugo at the park yesterday. I don’t know if it was the right decision to come straight home or not. I remember our memories together here. In every corner of this house, I see him, even though he’s not with me.My eyes are swollen from crying. I haven’t eaten since yesterday, and all I’ve done is cry until I’m exhausted.My emotions are all mixed up, and my chest feels heavy. I don’t know what to do anymore. I just let myself cry because I wanted to let it all out. All the pain I’m feeling.I’m mourning the loss of my child. I still ca
Nala’s Point of ViewI left the hospital with a mix of emotions. I wanted to scream, but it felt like I had no voice. I wanted to cry, but it seemed like I didn’t have the strength to sob. My hand was shaking as I walked aimlessly along the side of the road, not caring if I was hit by cars.The sun was hot, but I didn’t feel any pain. My whole body was numb from what I had learned.I felt betrayed.All this time, I was no longer pregnant. For two weeks, I was oblivious to what happened to my child! I couldn’t even mourn because they kept the truth from me!It hurts! It's extremely painful to lose a child as a mother. I didn’t even see, touch, kiss, or do anything. I didn’t even make her feel a mother’s care. I didn’t even apologize earlier. I neglected her. I failed to protect her!This is my fault.I didn’t know where my feet were taking me as I continued to walk. I ignored the people who were glancing at me. They probably thought I was going crazy. I didn’t care.I heard my cellphon
Nala’s Point of ViewI woke up earlier than Hugo the next morning. I got up slowly so as not to wake him. As far as I remember, he doesn’t fall asleep right away after we do that thing, so I knew he must still be tired. I don’t know what else he did because I fell asleep right away last night.I went to the bathroom to wash up and brush my teeth. Then I went downstairs to prepare breakfast. It shouldn’t be a problem for me to move around the house, right? The doctor said I’m okay.I was still wearing Hugo’s loose clothes when I came downstairs. It’s fine because it’s just the two of us here in the house, but there are still guards outside.I’m grateful that Daniel Cordova is no longer a problem. I don’t know if he’s still alive, but Hugo assured me that he wouldn’t bother me—us anymore. I trust him, so I believe what he said.And now that our battle with the Pure Blood Organization is over, our lives have returned to normal. Dominic has been busy with his own life, so he hasn’t been a
Nala’s Point of View“So, how are you feeling? Don’t you feel anything strange about your body?” asked Doc Tami as she peeled an orange.I shook my head. “I’m okay, Doc Tami. Actually, I could be discharged today,” I joked.I still call her Doc Tami even though I know she’s my sister because I’m not comfortable calling her Sis or Sis Tami. I told her that on the second day since I woke up, and she understood. She said it’s understandable because we just met. Everything takes time, she said.She raised an eyebrow. “Don’t be so sure. You might feel something different after you’re discharged.”I pouted. “Is there such a thing?”“Of course. It’s not impossible. I’ve had patients who just left the hospital but came back because they felt something different,” she explained. “Here. Eat this. It will help you. Oranges are packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, which can boost the immune system, improve digestion, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases,” she explained.I took the p