It was another fun-filled day with my Bobby's family. This time, I came back to my parent’s house with a new relationship status with this guy who is so happy and proud to be with me.“I prefer that you meet them properly next week,” I told Bobby about meeting my parents.“I agree. Let’s not shock them today,” he said.To be honest, it’s not really a big deal if I introduce him to them tonight. I’m of legal age and even if I am unemployed, I am not completely hopeless. However, part of me isn’t ready yet. I don’t know why but I just know tonight isn’t the right time.“Thank you for understanding. I’ll condition their minds first,” I said.“I want to meet your sister too,” he said.“Of course. I’ll let you meet her and her family as well,” I said.“Wow! I’m getting more family,” he said like we were already getting married.“So, next week again?” I said.“Can we see each other at least twice a week?” he asked.“That could be arranged,” I said.He smiled at me. This time, it’s mo
I look at myself in the mirror trying to find any differences in me. This is silly, I know. It’s not the first time I entered a relationship but I am acting as if something about me or in me changed after I agreed to be Bobby’s girlfriend. Am I being more careful now that I’m older and have had nothing but the graduation certificate I received after seven years in college?My cellphone shows one missed call from Quim. I tried my best to ignore it and I succeeded for the first time. I guess I really want my new relationship with Bobby to go somewhere. Maybe, I really matured.My mother seems excited after knowing we will have a guest next week.“How many dishes should I cook? It’s been a long time since I cooked for a guest,” she said.“We can have two dishes only. I can order the rest,” I said.“What’s the point eating here if we will only serve take outs?” she said.“Just cook two dishes here then let’s order lechon. I miss it,” my father said.“Oh, don’t use this occasion to
Mom and Dad stand next to each other mesmerized by what they are seeing in front of them. Needless to say that my mother is star-struck by this tall, handsome guy with great physique and charming smile. Today’s not the first time she saw him but this time, they really go face to face. “I just saw you on TV recently. You looked good on that show but you look even better in person,” she said like she was a big fan. “Thank you, Auntie. You’re more beautiful up close,” Bobby said. He starts to court to her. As for my dad who calls himself the standard of male beauty, which of course is only a joke to me and my sister, he’s eyes are glued to that precious pig that’s smelling so good from inside its box. It shames the pork belly lechon he waited for a week to be delivered. I woke up early this morning to prepare fresh fruit salad and juices for lunch but my parents woke up way earlier. Mom was excited to welcome our first guest since the lockdown began while Dad was surely excited f
I knew Bobby was approaching but I wasn’t sure if it was me he called “babe”. I’m still holding my cellphone where I was reading Ally’s message with pictures taken in Quim’s property. “Me?” I asked. “You don’t like it?” he asked looking a little embarrassed. “Oh, that’s your term of endearment,” I said. “Our term of endearment. I thought it was just okay. I shouldn’t assume you’d go for it without asking you,” he said. “No..no..it’s totally fine. I was just surprised,” I explained my shock. “No. We should decide on that both. So, tell me what do you prefer?” he asked. “Call me whatever you want,” I said. “You’re not into this thing, aren’t you? But it’s fine,” he said. “C’mon, you’re making me feel bad. Let’s stick with that,” I said. “So, I’ll call you ‘babe’ then,” he said. “Baby, babe, whatever,” I said. He came closer and hugs me. “Good thing my name rhymes with ‘baby’ or ‘by’,” he said while still embracing me. I backed off a little. “Hey, I’m sorry. I’m a h
Mom, Ally, and I stare at this tall basket of imported luncheon meat, corned beef, Spanish sardines, and other canned goods that are not readily available in regular groceries. “Please don’t touch it. I will send it back,” I told them. “Send it back? After I brought it here, you would just send it back?” Ally asked. “Sorry, I don’t want to receive these items,” I said. “What's the matter with you? If you don’t want it, I’ll bring it home,” Ally said. “I heard Ally. Is she here now?” Dad asked coming down from their room upstairs. We let him see the basket of canned goods. “What is that?” he asked. “Hon, it’s obviously food basket with all imported canned goods,” Mom said. “Where did that come from?” he asked. “I came from lunch with Audrey’s former boss. He asked me to deliver this to her,” Ally said. Dad couldn’t help but burst in laughter. “The young billionaire we were talking about during lunch today?” he asked. Mom and I nodded. “What was he thinking? We can buy
One thing is certain about this pandemic crisis – it’s not that strong enough to hold the time from moving. Time may seem to have stopped for a while but it didn't. My relationship with Bobby is flourishing. Setting aside the confusing feeling that's not going away, there’s nothing else to dislike in this relationship. I have a handsome, smart, and supportive boyfriend. Our families are getting along well. In fact, the much-awaited get-together is happening soon. I'm on tract with my career plan and Bobby is with me every step of the way. “Everything’s okay?” he asked me while driving. I can now sit in the passenger seat. “Yes. Finally, I’m starting all over again,” I said. “Treat it as your first job. Forget the other one,” he said. “Then, what do I call that experience?” I asked. “Training,” he answered plainly. “You’re funny,” I said. “Do I get a kiss for being funny?” he asked. “When we stop,” I said. The traffic light changed to red. He got excited to receive
For the first time, I witness Bobby desperately needing some comforting. It must have been bad back in Quim’s office. “Let’s leave,” I told him. We quietly entered the car and he started driving without saying a word. “Do you want to go to a drive thru? Burger, coffee, anything,” I asked. “I’ll bring you home,” he said. “And you’re going home too after you drop me off, right?” I asked. “I have to meet someone. It’s business,” he said. “Alright. Just drive carefully,” I said. We are almost near my house but he still hasn’t said anything about what happened during the sudden meeting with Quim. “If you are ready to talk about it, I’m ready to listen. I’ll drop everything and listen to you,” I said. Bobby nodded. He looks so sad and disappointed. Not even my presence could cheer him up. “Please don’t think that I’m setting you aside. There are just some things that I have to take care myself, okay?” he said. We had a quick kiss before I get out of the car. It’s more of a
The clock shows 12. “Midnight? Midnight!” I screamed to myself. All I wanted was a cuddle not a full time sleep in Bobby’s room that I don’t frequent. “How did I end up here?” I asked myself. I am still wearing the clothes I wore after taking a shower yesterday afternoon. I remember us cuddling in the living room while watching a show on a streaming site. It must be very comfortable that I fell asleep. I startled a bit when I saw the door open slowly. “Hi, Audrey. You’re awake,” Auntie Blessy said. I feel instantly embarrassed that she finds me in her son’s room. “You fell asleep and we couldn’t wake you up. You must be hungry. I’ll reheat your dinner,” she said. “Oh no, Auntie. I’ll do that myself. It’s past your bedtime,” I said. “It’s fine. I am just binge watching my favorite series,” she said. “Thanks, Auntie. I’ll just freshen up a bit. But where’s Bobby?” I asked. I just realized that he wasn’t around when I woke up. “He’s in the guest room,” she said. “W
A year after ending an old era in my life and facing challenges in my corporate life while still working on my channel, I feel so tired but my mind refuses to surrender.“You had a delivery,” Mom said while pointing at the white square envelope on the table.I got curious about it but I have a feeling that my parents know or at least have a hint of what it is about.“An invite?” I asked but she ignored me.The invite is for the wedding of Bobby and Rocio. It's no surprise that they would begin liking each other after going through their company’s ordeal but it still surprised me that it has reached this point already.“It’s for Bobby and Rocio’s wedding,” I said to my parents.They look at me without reaction on their faces. They knew it.“I know you won’t attend it,” Bobby said on the other line but he’s not mad.“But you did send an invite anyway,” I said.“That’s my way of telling you,” he said.“I wanted to call you last year when I saw you on the magazine cover but I thought it
Needless to say that my parents, especially my father, are not happy with my split from Bobby. They’ve been giving me the cold treatment since that night that we broke up. He was my first serious boyfriend that they met and they were really rooting for him. I try to act normal every time I am working from home. I film my videos when they are already in their room. They thought my newfound interest was one of the reasons why I split from Bobby. Until now, they still believe that I still don’t know what I want in life and this cooking and filming interest is just another phase.“I’m glad you agreed to having additional one day working in the office,” Trevor said.“It’s fine. It’s starting to get boring at home. I see many are back to the usual set up,” I said.“Well, hybrid is the best. I won’t last the entire week working here,” he said.I smiled. It’s the first time I heard him say about his dislike about working in the office. “Anyway, your views are getting higher,” he sai
“Behind every successful man, there is a woman,” Rocio started her introduction.I feel the cringe as many eyes are looking at me like I’m the luckiest girl in the world.“How does it feel to be the wife of the youngest CEO and billionaire in the country? Not to mention – a very charming man?” a guest asked me.I can’t breathe. I don’t know what to say but I know what I want to do and that’s to run away from everyone.My phone has been ringing nonstop. I saw two missed calls prior to the current one.“You’re still awake, aren’t you?” Ally asked on the line.I checked the time. It’s still Saturday night. I fell asleep while uploading my latest videos in my online channel.“What do you want?” I asked.“Congratulations!” she said.“What? No! I’m not getting married yet!” I screamed.The dress that Auntie Blessy bought for me a few months ago is finally out of the closet. It’s simple yet very elegant. I’m still hesitant to wear it to my lunch with Bobby tomorrow.“Are you sure yo
The sight of Bobby eating with so much appetite is refreshing. But if my observation was right, he’s in need of something he couldn’t find just anywhere even with the power and money that he has.“Hey, join me. I’m sorry for devouring your food,” he said with a noticeable sad smile on his face.“It's alright. We had heavy snacks this afternoon,” I said.“Do they come here often?” he asked.“Just today. I wanted them to taste my desserts and……,” I said but couldn’t finish.“And then?” he asked.“I am also filming my cooking,” I said shyly.“You’re vlogging,” he said.“I want to try. It’s Trevor’s idea,” I said.“He’s got a great idea,” he said.I regret telling that to him. “You’re surrounded by good people,” he said.I’ve been wanting to ask him why he suddenly arrived but I recalled what my parents said that he’s not required to call in advance to let me know he’s coming. “I missed you. I missed being around you,” he said.He holds my hand while he continues eating. He looks
I spent the rest of the evening going through my old recipe notebook that contains all my imaginary recipes that I never get to try and have remained unfinished up to this day.Thanks to Bella for reminding me that once upon a time, I dreamed of becoming a chef or even just a cook. I realized once again that I spent so many years in college trying to figure out what I wanted to do in my life only to graduate, find a job, and still continue figuring out if what I’m doing now is the one that I really want.“Audrey is not with us yet,” Gelly said in the video call.I tried to open my eyes immediately. “I’m sorry. I was having a hard time sleeping last night,” I said an alibi.“We can proceed now,” Trevor said.“We will be needing your team’s assistance in our next project. Basically, we will be requesting data from your end,” she said.“Sure. We are happy to assist. Just send us your requests,” I said actively.Trevor hides his smile but I could still see it from the screen.“I sen
The sound of people talking inside our house was what I instantly heard upon opening our gate.“Where have you been?” Bobby asked as soon as I entered our house.My parents look happy being reunited with him.Is this my punishment for sneaking out to meet Quim? I completely forgot to think of an alibi before returning home. “Why are you here? Did you call?” I asked Bobby defensively.“What kind of question was that?” Dad asked as Bobby looked surprised as well.“If I knew you were coming, I would’ve not met with my colleagues,” I lied.“He doesn’t need to call to announce he’s coming. He’s welcome here,” Mom said.“It’s fine, Uncle, Auntie,” Bobby said.“Please bear with her, son,” Dad said to him.“I completely understand. I know she’s enjoying her colleagues’ company lately,” Bobby added.“We’ll leave you two here,” Mom said.“I’m also leaving in a few minutes, Auntie. I just waited for Audrey to arrive,” Bobby said.Mom shook her head. She’s probably disappointed.“Feel free t
I don’t have money, not even impressive credentials to have confidence to request to visit a property but I have the magic number.My heart beats faster as I wait for Quim to answer my call.“I know it’s kind of late….,” I started talking as soon the call got picked up.“Audrey?” a woman asked me. “Oh…I’m sorry. I dialed the wrong number,” I said.“Are you looking for Quim? He’s just getting something from upstairs. Would you mind waiting?” she asked.“Is it alright, Ma’am?” I asked carefully.“Luisa, It’s Quim’s mother. Don’t you remember me, Audrey?” she said.“Oh my God. I’m sorry, Ma’am. I wasn’t able to recognize your voice,” I said.“Ah….my voice is different from video calls. That’s fine. Anyway, here's Quim,” she said.“Thank you, Ma’am,” I said while my hand is shaking.“Auntie Luisa,” she said to me.“Who’s this?” Quim asked.“Audrey,” she said to him.“What does she need?” he asked.“Talk to her,” she said.My heart now skips a beat. I never thought I would talk t
I’ve been waiting for Leila’s call since yesterday. I want to send her a message but I am embarrassed to do so. So many things are running inside my head and they’re all confusing me.“Audrey? Hey, I’m sorry. I haven’t called you yet,” she told me on the line.“It’s fine. I was just…you know….,” I couldn’t tell her exactly what my intention for the call is but I am hoping that she has the slightest hint.“It's about my meet up with Quim, right?” she asked.“More likely to check on him. He’s in a very challenging time right now and I want to know how he’s coping,” I continued to hide my true intention.“We are flying back to the US tomorrow. Do you have time today after work?” she asked.I invited her to meet me at the nearest coffee shop to my office. I only had one cup of coffee the whole day but I feel I’m already shaking.Leila really looks prettier than when I first met her in Quim’s house but unlike the other day, her eyes look a little sadder this time.“Sorry that I bot
I was in the shower when my phone rang. I had to rush to pick it up. Manifesting is real.But we sometimes confuse expecting with manifesting and expectations always lead to disappointments.“I’ve a big favor you to ask from you,” Bobby said.“Sure. Is everything okay? What is it?” I asked.“The events are really happening one after the other. I can’t keep up anymore,” he said.“I told you that you don’t have to attend every event. You have people to represent you,” I said.“But clients want to see me there,” he said.“How did you know that?” I asked.“My marketing team is doing some sort of a survey before each event,” he said.“Well, what is the favor that you want from me?” I asked.“Can you attend an event in my behalf?” he asked.“Me? Attending alone?” I asked with obvious nervousness in my voice.“Yes. Our companies are not competitors so you could be my representative there,” he said.“But are you sure? I’m not good in business matters. I haven’t read the current event