"WHY are you dressed like that?" I asked my friend. She’s sitting pretty in a chair near the entrance door of Lover’s Café."I've been waiting for you for a while," Kim said, her eyebrow raised. Her attention was on the cellphone she was holding."I woke up late," I replied. "Wait a minute, why are you in a gym suit?"She lifted her head after putting on the headband and smiled at me."We're going to the gym to work out. I feel like I gained weight after a few days in the province. Ops–I don't intend to hurt your feelings.""Duh...no hurt feelings," I replied. "I know I'm healthy. Anyway, where are the fruits you will give me? ”"I put it in the fridge," she said. Kim stood up. "I called Tita Elena and I told her I would take you to the fitness gym.""What did my mom say?""Haller? Of course, your mom agreed right away. I even heard her shout for joy."I raised an eyebrow. "What am I going to do there?""Of course, exercise. If you don't want to, just entertain yourself by watching th
I can't believe I was hired. Kim’s cousin owned Forever Beauty Cosmetics. I was assigned to the sales department. Of course, Kim helped me. She's my best friend and she dreams of becoming my sister-in-law."Finally, when I start receiving my monthly salary, I will have a budget for my monthly membership in the fitness gym," I was happy to say to Kim. We were at the gym that day."Did your dad allow you to work for another company?" Kim asked. She opened the bottled water and drank it. She was sitting on the yoga mat."At first, dad didn’t agree. He said that I can manage one of the branches of Lover’s Cafe. But mom didn't agree, because I would be tempted by milk tea, coffee, and cake.""I'm happy because I can see that your weight loss is progressing. I just hope it continues… ”"I have no intention of stopping my weight loss. Five kilograms have already reduced my weight. I'll make sure I have enough time to go to the gym even if I'm busy at work.""Let's change the topic, how is Ki
I was stunned when I looked at the establishment next to the company where I worked. I don’t know why every time I pass by there, I get stopped.I would always find myself thinking about that particular person. I shook my head as I looked at the former coffee shop that is now a fast-food chain.And some funny memories suddenly flashed through my mind. Kier took me to that coffee shop three years ago.I suddenly remembered the times I was arguing with the man I considered a mortal enemy. I couldn’t quite imagine that the days, months, and years that had passed that I hadn’t seen him, I was looking for his presence. It's like my day isn't complete if he doesn't annoy me.It’s funny to think that the company where I work is next to the former coffee shop. That's where our company service dropped us off. My car is in the car repair shop.I took a deep breath. Three years have passed. I was promoted to my job. I’m still working at Forever’s Beauty Cosmetics as a sales manager. My dad want
My eyes widened at what I heard. I swallowed. That position is what anyone working at Forever’s Beauty Corporation would want to get. It was an offer that would change my life. Well, even though I am the daughter of the owner of the huge Advertising Company in the Philippines, it is a great honor for me to be the vice president of Forever’s Beauty Corporation. "Our current vice president is about to resign. So he needed a replacement. You are the one I want to be the new vice president, Fatima," she said. "Right from the beginning, I saw your dedication and you're good at work. So I offer you the position because I can trust you. So what is it? A yes? Or a no?" I took a deep breath. There is nothing wrong if I try. I shouldn’t have to worry or be scared. I looked straight into her eyes. "It's a yes, Ma'am." I would do this. I want to get the position. And I don’t want to disappoint my boss. A beautiful smile flashed on Ma'am Cora's lips at what I said. *** "CONGRATULATION, frien
I confidently entered the restaurant. I will be meeting with the vice president of Enchanted Perfumes Corporation. I learned from Ma'am Cora that the vice president is also currently managing the company. As always, it is still doing well and is one of the most successful companies in the country.So I no longer wonder why so many entrepreneurs want to be distributors of Enchanted Perfumes products. All its products are still popular.And my goal today is to close the deal with them. For my promotion and our company as well.I had contacted Enchanted Perfumes and set an appointment with Mr. Alwin Tiangco–the vice president to tell him about our deal. And at that restaurant, we will talk.The restaurant receptionist accompanied me to the table being reserved. I was ten minutes early in the time set for my meeting with Mr. Tiangco.But I was stunned when I saw a familiar male figure sitting at the reserved table. I only saw his back but I was nervous that I couldn't explain. And I could
"GIVE me enough time to study everything here," Kier said, gesturing to the folder. "I have talked to many company owners and I have to choose the best. Because it is for the benefit of our company."I nodded. "I understand, Mr. Williams." I was praying fervently to get that deal.Kier smiled. But I averted my eyes. I want to leave. But how do I do that if I need something important from him? I would just remind myself that I was doing this for my career.***"FINALLY, you are awake. Our guest has been waiting for you for a while." My mom was talking to Kier's mother."Mrs. Williams!" I reacted excitedly when I saw her and ran down the stairs."Is that you, Fatima?" I saw in her eyes that she was surprised. She looked at me from head to toe. "The last time I saw you at the amusement park with your friend, you were still fat. It's good that you've already thought about losing weight."I smiled."You are so beautiful. Kier should see you, Fatima. I don't know if he can get over your bea
Kier had no work that day. But he had to go to Enchanted Perfumes Corporation for an important document when he spotted a woman wearing a t-shirt, loose pants, and rubber shoes. She was running and seemed weak, a man was chasing her.The man violently grabbed the woman's arm. Kier saw the woman trying to get away.Kier drove the car fast and when he was in front of the man he shouted at him. "Hey! What are you doing?""None of your business! She's my girlfriend!"The woman looks like she's going to fall. His eyes widened when he recognized her. It was Fatima!Kier angrily got out of the car and punched the man.I feel like I'm going to fall because of the dizziness I feel. The face of the man who had been my savior was blurred. I touched my forehead until I fainted."Hey, moron! How did she become your girlfriend, huh? I know that woman!" Kier shouted angrily at the man.Kier gave the man two punches and two flying kicks before he ran towards a cab not far away.The woman was lying on
“YOU’RE late, Fatima."I swallowed. Kier's face was serious when he spoke. But I can't tell if he's angry. I was still panting when I entered his office.I tried to arrive at the right time but I was late. How can I not be late? He suddenly called Forever’s Beauty Cosmetics office and told me to go to his office in twenty minutes.How do I do that in heavy traffic? I was about to explain when he suddenly ended the call. I wanted to shout at him but I couldn't.I looked at him sitting in the swivel chair. I saw the playful smile on his lips. This man seemed to be playing with me and meant to annoy me.He's annoying! If what I needed from him wasn't important, I would be leaving right now. I took a deep breath and calmed myself.“I’m really sorry, Mr. Williams," I apologized."Sit down, Fatima," he gestured to the chair across from the table.This man is used to calling me by my first name even when we are talking about work.I sat down. I have yet to personally thank him for saving my
"I've been three years away from you but I can't forget you. You're deeply etched here in my heart. That's why when my parents opened up again that they wanted me to marry you, I agreed. I said to myself before heading back here, I will make sure that this time, you'll fall for me no matter what. And thank God! I finally succeeded! You can't escape my charm!""Charm my foot!" I pretended to be annoyed. "Did you hear me say I love you?"He was stunned. He seemed to think. Of course, my heart is to the rescue. "I hate you!" I said and hugged my husband tightly."You hate me?""Yes.""Why is that?" Kier asked in a confused tone of voice."Because I've been waiting for a long time for you to tell me that you love me. Then now, you confessed your love for me while you were naked!""Love me, Fatima. I never stopped loving you. Tell me you love me too.""I think you used a potion on me." I caressed his face. The happiness I feel is unparalleled. "I love you, Mutant. I love you, Kier. I
Kier stood up and handed me a brown envelope. "You're my wife... legally." With trembling hands, I opened it. I gasped when I read what was written in the document. Our marriage certificate! "This isn't true. You said our marriage was fake?" My blood boiled. Did he trick me? Just to please our parents? I held my chest. "They knew about our plan. They tricked us." "Does this mean we're really married?" "Yes." "L-let's get a divorce." I approached him and held his hand. "I know I'm just a burden to you. I know you don't want to be tied to me, either. So please, give me back my freedom." "I can't..." "W-what?" Frowning, I looked up to see his face. "Didn't I say, I won't leave you even if you ask me to? I even said that here at the Santillan Mansion. A promise is a promise. The promise should not be broken, wifey." I blinked. I think I got dizzy from what he said. I just woke up. Who wouldn't be surprised when you wake up with the man you've been thinking about for days? "Do
It's been a week since I left Kier's house. From the subdivision, I took a taxi and asked the driver to take me to Tagaytay. I checked in at the newly opened hotel and restaurant in Tagaytay. While I was there I was thinking of leaving the Philippines to visit my brother in America. "Thank you," I said smiling at the woman who delivered my order to the table I occupied. I stirred my coffee and smelled its aroma. I tasted a slice of strawberry cake. Delicious! But I smiled bitterly. Earlier, I called my mother on the phone. I explained everything to her. I said don't look for me. I'm not ready to go home yet. I wasn't sure of anything anymore. I just want to get away. After drinking coffee I decided to leave Starbucks. I still feel the sadness inside me. All I want to hear from Kier is that he loves me. It's sad. But I will try to be happy. But it's impossible because Kier destroyed my ability to be happy. He is my happiness. I didn't have any trouble getting a taxi. When t
There wasn’t a moment of hesitation. His mouth was on mine, and I stopped breathing. He shuddered and there was a sound from the back of his throat, half growl, half moan. Little shivers of pleasure and panic shot through me as he deepened the kiss, parting my lips. I stopped thinking.The rush of sensations crawling across my body was maddening. Scary. Thrilling. His hands were moving down, under my shirt, his fingers skimming over my skin, sending a rush of blood to every part of my body."You can still say no..." he whispered, dropping small kisses along my face.I wanted to say no. I'm afraid to give in to what he's doing. But I couldn't disobey what my heart was whispering. I loved him. And I wanted to feel his love at least tonight.I might be a fool to think that way.Stupid as it is, I wanted to take the risk. I caressed his cheek and kissed him sweetly.His lips slid down my neck. And my hands went down. I ran my fingers down his chest, His stomach was hard, dipped, and rippl
Kier looked at his father with a smile on his face. "Dad, Fatima loves me." "My daughter, she used to talk about you when she was just a teenager. She would tell me how she hated you. But I know that it was the only way she could deal with her feelings. I always see her sneaking glances at you when you talk to Tristan, my son. When I tell her that her older brother is better at basketball, she gets annoyed. She said Tristan is my son. So I don't see that you are better at basketball than him. I know that she secretly admires you even when you were teenagers." "That's mainly the reason why we wanted you to get married. We saw you love each other. You can't admit your feelings for each other, so we made a way. When I accidentally saw Fatima's picture under your pillow before you flew to America, I talked to Carlo. I no longer had doubts that you love her," said Rodrigo and patted his son on the shoulder. "Y-you saw it?" Kier asked his father. It was his biggest secret. He kept a pict
"There's no reason for Kier to know about my feelings for him.""Why?" Kim let go of my embrace."He loves someone else, Kim."She caressed my back sadly. "Tell me the truth, you were just pretending to argue with Kier in the kitchen, am I right?"I nodded. "From our marriage, and our divorce plan, it's all just a pretense. Our marriage is fake.""What?" With wide eyes, Kim covered her mouth. "You mean–""Our marriage is not legal. We are not a real couple," I added to what she would have said. "Kier paid the lawyer who blessed our marriage.""Oh, God! Why did you agree?""Because I love him. Even though I know it's all just a pretense. I thought he loved me too.""Many people die because of delusions. Has anything happened to both of you? I mean, have you given him your virginity yet?""No!" I answered quickly. "We kissed.""When your father learns the truth about your marriage, he will definitely be angry.""I know. Before we decided to get married, we had already planned our divorce
"Wifey, our parents will come here later."I was stunned. We are currently in the living room."Is that so?" I faced him. I stood up and went to the window."Don't worry." He followed her.How could I not worry? He said that our parents will visit us and it only reminds me that we will soon be separated. But that's what I wanted to say to Kier, I just couldn't say it. My heart suddenly hurt because of what I thought. I cleared my throat."Are we going to let them know about the divorce we are planning?"He fell silent for a moment. I heard his heavy sigh."Is that what you want?"I blinked to stop the tears from forming in my eyes. I bit my lower lip and wrapped my arms around my body. I suddenly felt cold. Is that what I want? For my heart's safety, I silently nodded."Okay. We'll do it.”After a while, I heard his footsteps away from me. He left the house and I don't know where he was going. I couldn't stop myself from crying.It hurts to accept that our marriage is not real. Tha
I tried to push Kier away from me, but my strength was wasted, he hugged me tightly. I didn't expect what he did next, he bent his head and kissed me hard, muffling my cry.His warm kiss was enough to get rid of the coldness I was feeling. I want to hate him but no matter what happens, I can't stop myself from loving him.When our lips parted, Kier bent down and picked me up. "Let's go inside the house. You're going to get sick from what you're doing. I was very worried when I talked to Teresa. She said she never saw you leave the house and you weren't in the bedroom either."I rested my head on his chest. I was physically and emotionally exhausted.We entered the house. We used the stairs in the kitchen to go up to the balcony on the second floor. And then he took me to the bathroom, made me stand there, and fixed the bathtub. He felt the water and added bubble salt. Then he faced me and removed my wet clothes one by one."W-what are you doing?" I hugged myself."Modesty's not appro
"We don't have a relationship.""Really?" I said sarcastically. "Why does she call you darling?""Come on, don't you trust me?" I didn't answer. "Are you jealous of Savannah?""Of course not," I answered quickly. I noticed the pain on Kier's face. "I am your wife and we are newly married. What if our marriage became real? Would you treat me like this in front of many people as your wife? You're going to flirt with another girl even though I'm with you?""Why did our conversation turn to me?""Because you started it," I said. Annoyed, I turned my back on him. I went to the closet and got some clothes to wear. I heard Kier call my name, but I answered him with a loud slam of the door.I don't know how I fell asleep next to Kier, but I did sleep. Somewhere in the night, I woke up when I heard the door creak. Sleepily, I turned to the other side of the bed. Kier wasn't there but I could see the bathroom light was on. I went back to sleep.WHEN I woke up, Kier was no longer by my side. I w