The Montenegro's family stayed only two days in that hacienda. I was just standing outside the mansion as I watched Raphael's back leaving there. I felt a pinch in my heart as I stared at him. Furthermore, I was swallowed deeply because I could feel my tears flowing at any time. I clenched my two fists and could still feel the anger from it in my heart. Likewise, I would rather not talk to him and I would rather not see his presence again. But I want to ask him why he did that to me? Why did he cheat on me, and why did he hide from me his true personality that he was an heir of Montenegro? And most of all, I would like to know from him if he really loved me or does he just feel bored that time?
Because of what happened and what I discovered, I hid my pregnancy. I had no intention of telling him about it. I also have no plans to introduce him to my child as his father. Furthermore, I will insist that he will not recognize and get the Montenegro. After that day, I never saw Raphael again. I didn't even hear anything about him and if every time I hear his name, I'll just avoid it and leave. I don't want to know about him anymore, nor do I want to hear his name and surname again. Likewise, I just want to live a quiet life and work without thinking of anything. I also don't want my child to be in trouble, I don't want him to know who he is and what he really is. I tried to take care of the child alone in my womb for six months. Many wonder and ask me who is the real father of my unborn child because they do not see anyone with me. I didn't just answer them, but I smiled and pretended to hear nothing. Even Betty tried to ask me even though I knew every time she's staring at me, many questions that she wanted to know about me. During those six months. I was able to be alone with no other help from other people, nor with no help from him. Until one day, it was just a big suppression when I saw his familiar face again. I was in the garden of those moments, and I was watering the plants over there when I heard that someone seems to be snoring. I followed the noise that was heard until it took me to a man lying on the ground and seemed to sleep under the tree. A newspaper covered his face and I slowly removed it to look at his appearance and to find out who that person was. Until my eyes widened in shock when I saw him. I step back and in shock, I lost my balance, but unexpectedly he quickly grabbed my right hand before my head was pierced on the ground. All of a sudden, all the moves around us were slowing down, as well as the clock. Our eyes met each other and as we first met, his beautiful face still had not faded and his dazzling eyes were like shining stars. “Are you alright?” he asked me. I didn't respond to him right away because I was shocked at the speed of the incident and couldn't believe he was here again in front of me while holding my hand. It seems like I'm missing his voice too, now I just heard him again as well as he stared at me too much. About six months ago, my tummy tomb was pretty big and many things changed, but I couldn't understand that despite all my sacrifices to forget everything about him, suddenly he appeared in my in front of me again. It appears that all the memories I forgot about the two of us flashes back to me as well as my love for him that I thought it was gone. It seemed like this was the first time that we met each other. Is this how love at first love works? That whatever you do to forget about him, you will still love him back and the one who you still want to be with in forever? That even though many have changed, and you haven't seen each other for a long time, it seems like everything is just a neglect? Why do I feel this way now? I can't understand it, but I'm sure he still the one in my heart. His eyes, his nose, the heart-shaped lips of him, his warm hands and all of him were looking of my heart, and it was as if I were excited to hug him tightly. I was like a child who was in tears and excited embrace of her mother. It seemed like my mind was blank, and my world was running for him. No one else came to my mind and I could see nothing else in my surroundings, but it was just him. I will admit that my hatred at him is still here, and I will never forget it. But it seems true that love is foolish, no matter how smart or good you are in the academy when a person comes to feel the importance of love you will suddenly become a slave of it. That regardless of what he does or no matter how much pain he has caused in your heart, he is the one you're looking for. I want to blame him all, I wish to get angry in front of him, shout at him and pour everything the hatred inside of me. But as I stared into his eyes again and hear his voice is seemed to erase everything in the past. “I love you.” The word suddenly uttered my mouth which was obviously surprised him and there was a trace of astonishment on his face. In those moments as if I were not in my right mind, so I spoke before him the words I wanted to say to him. There were tears in my eyes, with a bitter smile on my lips. Until I could not help but hug him tightly while I was crying. Maybe I'm a martyr if only other people would know what I was doing. But I would rather not be a liar in my true feelings. I love him, I love Raphael so much, and I'm willing to do everything possible to make him loved me again. “Why did you leave me? Don't you know that I can't sleep at night just thinking about you? You make me worried so bad.” Saying to him like a crying little child girl. “Umf?…" Speechless. I didn't realize those moments, I didn't know the outcome of all this. I just poured all my feelings and tears on his shoulder as I hugged him tightly. Until my tears stopped, and I just realized what I was doing. I immediately step back to him and then I turned away. “Sorry if I lost my mind. I just thought you are someone I know that I'm waiting for a very long time. Just don't mind me and forget what I did and I said. I'm genuinely sorry.” I just told him before I left, but he quickly grabbed my right hand so he could stop me from leaving. Furthermore, I suddenly stopped and looked at his hand holding me. “Oh, I'm sorry.” He said then he let go my hand. “Before you leave, may I know your name?” He added, but I couldn't answer him because I just wanted to forget him forever. “Don't misunderstand me, but I feel strange when you hug me and I want to know if we've met before?” He said. He seemed to have no clue to what was happened to me after he left me alone. I quickly turned to him and faced him with a frown. “What do you mean? You don't know me anymore?” I asked him, and he scratched his head then he looked at the ground. “I don't know. I don't know who you are, but it seems like something is telling me that the two of us has a special relationship.” He replied with a line of an innocent smile on his lips. Suddenly, I wondered why his words seemed to be true as if he didn't know me or that I was different from him. “The truth is because I lost—” he interrupted as Betty suddenly called me. Without a word, I turned away from him and went with my friend. “Who is that? Isn't that sir Raphael? Why is he here? Just a moment—” Betty told me as she stopped walking. “Have you two talked again? Did you tell him everything?” She added, and she was talking about my pregnancy, Raphael's child. “No.” I replied briefly to her.“No? What do you mean?” She asked. “He didn't know, and I didn't intend to tell him about it.” I replied. “But why don't you want to let him know about your baby, isn't he has a right to it? Don't you want to get out of poverty and experience your child's luxurious life?” As she said that I suddenly looked at her as if I didn't like what she meant to me. “I never wished the wealth he had. I don't need Montenegro's money and not at all, I can raise my baby alone.” After I told her that I left her and I hurried my way. If all of them think of me like I was just using my child to get all what I want, I would rather just leave this city and go away so they will not know about the true identity of the child in my womb. Yes, I love him, but I can't allow them to get near to my baby nor give him a miserable life like their family. I will make sure that he will not be hurt by anyone and hand him to any clan members of Montenegro. My baby is mine, my life and my world. No one can separate
As the sun set, we prepared dinner for the Montenegro family again. While others were busy setting the table, I prepared the silverware and plates they would use. Just a few moments later, the family came down the long staircase. But I immediately noticed that Raphael was not with them. Claus looked at me, but I just bowed my head."Where's Raphael?" his father asked."I went to his room earlier and talked to him. He said he didn't feel like eating dinner. Maybe he wants to rest or maybe his head is hurting again," his mother replied. I felt worried about what I heard. Is he okay? I felt like going to his room and giving him medicine so his headache would go away. But I knew I had no right to do that."He's been having headaches for days. Hasn't he recovered yet from his accident?" his father asked, and I felt a shiver run down my spine. I frowned, wondering if what I heard was true."The doctor said it's normal for him to feel severe headaches because of the serious injury he sustain
"It's true, I didn't get fired. Instead, I asked the Montenegros to give me another chance, and they agreed. Anytime, I'm ready to leave this place, but because of Raphael, I'll stay, for our future child's sake.Since that day, I haven't seen Claus around the mansion, nor the Montenegros. It's usually just Raphael left behind. That's why I've been trying to get closer to him."Time for your breakfast, sir," I said to him while he was sitting in front of the dining table, munching on a sandwich. He looked up at me with a raised eyebrow, and I smiled."Yeah, I know it's already morning. What do you think I'm doing? Eating my breakfast," he replied gruffly, holding up his sandwich."I know, but you're sitting in front of the dining table, and that's not proper etiquette. I'm sure you know what I mean," I said, trying to sound calm.He got my point and immediately put down his phone and placed it on the table. "Wait a minute, are you teaching me? Do you forget who you are in this house?"
As I left Raphael's room, I couldn't shake off the feeling that I was being watched. I glanced over my shoulder, but he was already busy with his phone, his eyes fixed on the screen. I made my way back to the kitchen, my mind racing with thoughts. What was Raphael's game? Was he really just trying to get to know me better, or was there something more sinister at play? As I entered the kitchen, I found Betty busy preparing dinner. She looked up at me and smiled. "Hey, how was your meeting with Sir?" I hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal. "It was fine," I said finally. "He just wanted to teach me how to use the walkie-talkie." Betty's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "And? Did you learn anything new?" I shook my head. "Not really. Just the basics." Betty nodded, seeming to accept my explanation. But as I turned to leave, I caught her watching me with a thoughtful expression. I wondered if she suspected something, if she knew more about Raphael's plans than she was letting on. Bu
I started typing away on my computer, the words flowing easily as I got into the zone. I wrote about the coffee machine's daily struggles, its joys and its sorrows. I wrote about the countless cups of coffee it had dispensed, the late-night conversations it had witnessed, and the early-morning rushes it had endured.As I wrote, I found myself getting more and more into character. I was no longer just Delilah, the assistant secretary. I was the office coffee machine, pouring my heart and soul into every cup.Finally, after what felt like hours, I finished the song. I read it over, making a few tweaks here and there, and then I saved it to my computer.I took a deep breath, feeling a sense of pride and accomplishment. I had done it. I had written a song about the office coffee machine.I stood up, stretching my arms over my head, and then I walked over to Raphael's office. I knocked on the door, and when he called out, I entered.Raphael looked up from his computer, a hint of amusement
As I was about to leave Raphael's office, he suddenly looked up at me with a mischievous glint in his eye. "Delilah, I've got another task for you."I felt a sense of trepidation, wondering what new absurdity he had in store for me. "Yes, sir?"Raphael leaned forward, a sly smile spreading across his face. "I want you to count the number of grains of sand in the vase on my desk."I stared at him, my eyes widening in incredulity. "The number of grains of sand, sir?"Raphael nodded, his expression completely serious. "Yes, that's right. I need to know the exact number of grains of sand in that vase."I felt my mind reeling, trying to comprehend the sheer impossibility of the task. "But, sir, that's...that's impossible. There must be thousands, tens of thousands, of grains of sand in that vase."Raphael shrugged, his smile unwavering. "I'm sure it's a manageable task, Delilah. You're a very capable person, after all."I felt a surge of frustration, mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism
Raphael's voice broke the silence, his words sending a shiver down my spine. "You know, Delilah, your eyes are truly beautiful. They sparkle like diamonds in the sunlight."I felt a sudden jolt, a flash of memory that took me back to a time when Raphael had said the same thing to me. I remembered the way he had looked at me, the way he had made me feel like I was the only person in the world.But that was before. Before he had lost his memories of me. Before everything had changed.I tried to hold it in, but the emotions were too much. I felt a lump form in my throat, and before I knew it, tears were streaming down my face.Raphael's expression changed from one of admiration to one of shock. He took a step back, his eyes wide with concern. "Delilah, what's wrong? What did I do?"But I couldn't speak. I was crying too hard, the sobs wracking my body. I felt like a little child, helpless and vulnerable.Raphael looked like he didn't know what to do. He took another step back, his eyes d
I decided to head to the kitchen to help out with lunch preparations. As I walked in, I was greeted by the warm smile of Betty."Ah, Delilah, perfect timing! We could use an extra pair of hands."I nodded and began to help with the chopping and prep work. As we worked, the kitchen staff couldn't help but talk about Raphael's outburst earlier."I've never seen him like that before," said one of the kitchen maids. "He's always so calm and collected.""I know, it's like he's been bottling everything up inside," added Betty. "I just hope he's okay."The other kitchen staff nodded in agreement, and I couldn't help but feel a pang of concern. What was going on with Raphael? And why was he keeping it a secret?As we continued to work, the conversation turned to speculation about Raphael's past. "I've heard he was in some kind of accident," said one of the kitchen staff. "That's why he's been acting so strangely.""I don't know about that," said Betty, "but I do know that he's been seeing a l
As we stepped off the plane in New Zealand, I could feel the weight of our past tragedies slowly lifting off our shoulders. The crisp, clean air and the stunning natural beauty of the country seemed to envelop us in a sense of peace and tranquility.Raphael and I had decided to take a vacation to New Zealand to refresh our minds and hearts. We wanted to leave behind the memories of the past and start anew, and what better way to do that than in one of the most beautiful countries in the world?We spent our first few days in Auckland, exploring the city and its surroundings. We visited the iconic Sky Tower, where we took in breathtaking views of the city and harbor. We also walked along the waterfront, enjoying the street performers and food vendors.But it was when we left Auckland and started exploring the rest of the country that our vacation really began to take off. We rented a car and drove to Rotorua, where we spent a day exploring the geothermal wonders of Wai-O-Tapu. We marvel
Riezel's voice was tearful as she asked Raphael, "Do you still love Delilah? Even though she's changed her name, even though her face is not the same? Does your heart still beat for her?" Raphael's eyes never left mine as he looked down and nodded without hesitation. It was as if he was confirming his love for me, no matter what name I went by or what I looked like. Riezel's face contorted in agony as she broke down into tears. Her body shook with sobs, and her voice was barely audible as she asked Raphael again, "Did you ever love me? Did you ever care for me? Did your heart ever beat for me?" Raphael remained silent, his eyes still fixed on me. He didn't even glance at Riezel, and his silence was deafening. Riezel's tears continued to flow as she begged Raphael to answer her. But he just shook his head and said, "It's all my fault, Riezel. If there's anyone you need to punish, it's me, not Ava." Raphael took a step forward, his eyes locked on Riezel's. "I'll take the blame for
As I slowly opened my eyes, I was met with the familiar sight of the Montenegro hacienda's bedroom. I was lying on the bed, my head pounding with a dull ache. I tried to sit up, but a wave of dizziness washed over me, forcing me to lie back down.As I looked around the room, I realized that I was alone. There was no sign of Claus, no sign of anyone. I tried to call out for help, but my voice was hoarse and barely audible.I struggled to get out of bed, my legs shaking beneath me. I stumbled to the door and began to pound on it, calling out for someone to help me. But there was no response.I pounded on the door for what felt like hours, but no one came. I was starting to get desperate, starting to feel like I was trapped.And then I remembered the staff. They must have been instructed not to help me. Claus must have told them to leave me alone.I felt a wave of despair wash over me. I was trapped, alone and helpless. I slid to the floor, tears streaming down my face.Raphael. Oh, Raph
As Raphael drove the car, I sat beside him, feeling worried and scared. The events of the party were still fresh in my mind, and I couldn't shake off the feeling of unease.Raphael glanced at me, concern etched on his face. He saw the paleness of my skin, the shock still evident in my eyes. He reached out and held my hands tightly, trying to reassure me that he was there for me, that I wasn't alone."Where are we going?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.Raphael smiled softly. "Somewhere no one will find us," he said. "Just rest, Ava. You need it right now."I tried to lean back and rest my eyes, but my mind was racing. I couldn't forget what I had witnessed at the party. The image of Markus's lifeless body, the sound of Riezel's screams, it all kept replaying in my mind.As I drifted off to sleep, I had a nightmare. The party was repeating itself in my mind, and I was reliving the horror all over again.When I woke up, gasping for breath, I found myself in an unfamiliar room.
I sat in the dimly lit room, my heart racing as I recounted every detail of my conversation with Markus to Claus. He listened intently, his eyes narrowing as he processed the information.When I finished, Claus leaned back in his chair, a calculating look on his face. "We need to make Markus silence," he said, his voice low and menacing.I felt a shiver run down my spine as I heard his words. "What do you mean?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.Claus didn't answer me directly. Instead, he leaned forward, his eyes glinting in the dim light. "Let's just say that I have ways of dealing with people who become a problem," he said, his voice dripping with malice.I felt a wave of fear wash over me as I realized what Claus was suggesting. "You're not going to try to kill him, are you?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.Claus didn't answer me. Instead, he leaned back in his chair, a cold smile spreading across his face. "Let's just focus on our goal, Ava," he said. "If I find
As I walked into the bathroom, I didn't expect to see Riezel waiting for me. But there she was, her eyes blazing with anger and hatred. She pushed me against the wall, her hands closing around my neck like a vice.I struggled to breathe, but Riezel just leaned in closer, her face twisted in a snarl. She was enjoying this, enjoying the power she had over me. She was going to kill me, and she was going to enjoy every moment of it.But then, something inside me snapped. I started to giggle, and then I laughed, a cold, mirthless sound. Riezel's eyes widened in surprise, and she backed away from me, looking at me like I was crazy.And maybe I was. Maybe I had finally lost my mind after everything I had been through. But I didn't care. I was beyond caring.Riezel's voice was shaking as she asked me, "What's your relationship with my husband?"But I just smiled, a cold, calculating smile. I tied my long hair back, and then I started to walk towards Riezel, step by step.I didn't answer her q
As I walked into my condominium, I couldn't shake off the feeling of anger and resentment that had been building up inside me. I hurriedly made my way to my secret room, my heart racing with anticipation. And as I opened the door, I was met with a surprise that made my blood boil.Claus was sitting in my chair, a look of calmness on his face. But as soon as he saw me, he turned around, a hint of surprise in his eyes. I didn't give him time to react, though. I immediately grabbed him by the collar, my fingers digging deep into his skin."What did you tell Raphael?" I demanded, my voice low and menacing. "What lies did you and Riezel tell him to make him break into pieces like that?"Claus looked at me, confusion etched on his face. "Ava, I don't know what you're talking about," he said, trying to calm me down.But I wasn't having it. I pushed him away, my hands shaking with anger. "Don't lie to me, Claus," I spat. "I know all about it. Raphael told me everything."Claus looked at me, s
As the sunset approached, Raphael and I settled into the sand, his arms wrapped around me, holding me close. The sky was painted with hues of pink, orange, and purple, a breathtaking sight that seemed to match the emotions swirling inside me.As we sat there, watching the sun dip below the horizon, I felt a sense of sentimental wash over me. I couldn't help but think about the journey I had taken to get to this moment, to be back in Raphael's arms. All the pain, the heartache, the struggles – it had all been worth it, because in the end, I had found my way back to him.But as I gazed into his eyes, I couldn't help but wonder – if he knew everything, would he still love me? Would he still accept me, flaws and all? Or would he turn away, horrified by the secrets I had kept hidden for so long?I stared at him, lost in thought, and Raphael noticed. He smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners, and asked, "What's wrong? Why are you staring at me like that?"I hesitated, unsure of how to an
As we finished our meal at the restaurant, Raphael suggested that we head to a nearby hotel to continue our conversation in private. I agreed, and we hailed a taxi to take us to the hotel.As we rode in the taxi, Raphael's hand brushed against mine, sending a spark of electricity through my body. I turned to him, our eyes locking in a gaze that seemed to hold a thousand unspoken words.When we arrived at the hotel, Raphael paid the taxi driver and we stepped out onto the sidewalk. The cool evening air was filled with the sounds of the city, but all I could focus on was the man standing beside me.We walked into the hotel lobby, and Raphael approached the front desk to check us in. I stood beside him, my arm brushing against his as we waited for the receptionist to hand over our room key.As we made our way to the elevator, Raphael's hand found its way to the small of my back, his touch sending shivers down my spine. I leaned into him, my head tilting up to meet his gaze.The elevator