I forced a bitter smile as I gently caressed my parents' tombstone. Years had passed since they were gone, but the pain in my heart remained. Losing both parents at the same time was a tragedy too painful for any child to bear. I could hardly believe I had survived it all.
"Ma, Pa, how are you?" I whispered softly. I bit my lower lip to keep the tears from escaping my eyes. The ache in my chest grew stronger as I stared at their tombstone. I took two bouquets of flowers and placed them on top of the gravestone. It had been nine years since I last saw and heard them, and for all those years, I prayed for their souls every day. It was the least I could do for them. "I'm doing okay, Ma, Pa. Life is tough on my own, but I'm managing. As for Kuya Elmer, I don’t know where he is anymore. I'm worried because he’s been missing for years, and I haven't heard anything about him." I let out a deep sigh, hoping to ease the heaviness in my heart. Closing my eyes, I offered a silent prayer. I wiped away a tear that escaped. "If only you were still here, Ma, Pa, you'd see that I'm doing my best at work. Even though my boss is grumpy, I can handle it. Your youngest is strong, Ma, Pa." I laughed softly, though tears welled in my eyes. "Don't worry about me. I can take care of myself. I'm about to graduate soon, and our dream of me becoming a flight stewardess will finally come true. I'll fulfill it for you." I looked up and exhaled deeply. Visiting them at the cemetery always left my chest feeling heavy. Their early passing still hurt. They were too young to die, and they never got to see me achieve my dreams. Maybe this was fate—their sudden loss, my brother's disappearance, and me being left alone. I knew there had to be a reason for it all. I took a handkerchief from my bag and wiped my tears. I fanned myself, trying to calm down before heading to work. Glancing at my watch, I realized I had to leave soon or risk being late—especially since my boss was in an even worse mood than usual. "Ma, Pa, I have to go now. I'll visit you again next month. I love you both so much." I gently touched their tombstone. Whenever sadness overwhelmed me, I found myself coming here because talking to them, even if they couldn’t respond, helped lighten the burden I carried. I jumped in surprise when my phone suddenly rang loudly in my bag. I quickly grabbed it, and my heart pounded when I saw the caller ID. It was the executive secretary. Why was Miss Cindy calling? "Hello, Miss Cindy," I greeted politely. My heart pounded harder. Every time Miss Cindy called, it always meant bad news. "You have to come to the office right now. Mr. Samaniego is looking for you, Ms. Ocampo. Don’t make him wait." "Huh?" I stood up straight at her words. Why was the CEO looking for me? Had I made a mistake at work again? Oh God, I hoped not. "Come here now. This is urgent," she said firmly before ending the call. I clutched my chest. My heart pounded painfully, and I struggled to breathe. Something was wrong. It was way too early for Mr. Samaniego to be in the office. It was only 7:45 AM, and he usually arrived at ten. Oh no, what had I done this time? I hailed a taxi to Diamond Tower. Restlessness consumed me as I sat inside. I kept replaying yesterday's tasks in my head. Had I forgotten anything? Hopefully not. I didn't even want to go to the office—I was sure I'd be scolded again. And my boss? He was always grumpy, his eyebrows constantly furrowed, and his voice always sharp. Oh well, whatever happens, happens. I rushed into Diamond Entertainment Building, also known as Diamond Tower. My hands went numb from nervousness. Mr. Samaniego’s temper was notorious, and he had made me his favorite target these past few months. As soon as I reached our office, I noticed something odd. The usually noisy and chaotic space was eerily silent. Everyone was buried in their work, and no one was gossiping in the corner like they usually did. "Bree, Sir is here early, and he's in a bad mood. He's been yelling all morning. I think there's a major issue with a business deal," Cheska whispered, careful not to be overheard. My body went cold. Oh God! I was doomed! Summoning all my courage, I walked toward our cubicle. The window blinds were closed. I pushed open the glass door to our office, but I froze in place as soon as I stepped inside. I gaped when I met his sharp, intimidating gaze. His expression was deadly serious. He stood tall in front of Miss Cindy and Rachelle, my co-assistant secretary. I swallowed hard as his piercing eyes met mine. His brows were furrowed so tightly they nearly touched. "Good morning, Mr. Samaniego." I tried to keep my shaky legs steady. My throat went dry when he glared at me. Chelle gestured at me, but I couldn’t understand what she was trying to tell me. "Are you the one who spoke with Mr. Lao’s secretary?" His voice was stern and laced with irritation. I swallowed and nodded hesitantly. "Yes, sir. I was the one who spoke with Mr. Lao’s secretary." His jaw clenched, and he shut his eyes tightly as if holding back his anger. The veins on his neck popped out, and he massaged his temples as if dealing with a migraine. Did I make a mistake? My eyes widened in realization—I forgot to log Mr. Lao’s appointment! It was supposed to happen yesterday, but with all the work piling up and my parents' death anniversary weighing on me, it completely slipped my mind. I glanced at Miss Cindy and Chelle. They both shook their heads. Oh no, today was supposed to be Mr. Lao’s breakfast meeting with Mr. Samaniego. My heartbeat pounded wildly. "In my office." That was all he said before storming off. He even slammed the glass door on his way out. I clutched my chest, feeling like my heart might burst out of my ribcage. He was terrifying! I bit my lower lip and turned to Miss Cindy, who was staring at me seriously. "Miss Cindy, I’m so sorry! I forgot to log the meeting schedule," I said, nearly in tears. "Go to his office. And good luck," she instructed. Shoulders slumped, I nodded and hurried after him. I had no other choice. I just had to prepare myself in case I got fired today. But I hoped not—I still needed money for next semester’s tuition, and my savings weren’t enough. I took a deep breath, fanned myself, and then opened the door to Mr. Samaniego’s office. A sharp scream almost escaped my lips when something suddenly flew toward me—a paperweight! I barely dodged it. Did I just make him angrier by not getting hit? "Do you have any idea how important that meeting was?! Huh?!" he roared. I flinched as his voice echoed through the office. This was it—my career’s end. "Sir, I’m so sorry—" I didn’t even finish before he threw a pen holder. Pens scattered across the floor. "Shut up! Incompetent bitch! I will not allow this kind of dumbness in my company. Do you know how much money I lost because of your stupidity? I’ll charge that loss to your account! You embarrassed me in front of Mr. Lao, and now my credibility is being questioned. Get out!" I gasped as he suddenly hurled his laptop in my direction. My jaw dropped as its shattered parts scattered across the floor. Trembling, I picked up the broken laptop and placed it back on his desk. He was breathing heavily, head bowed as if trying to compose himself. "Sir, I’ll talk to Mr. Lao’s secretary again and apologize. Please don’t worry. I’ll take full responsibility—" "Jackson, just spare her. It’s not her fault. I shouldn’t have let her handle that deal," Miss Cindy interrupted as she entered. "Go. And good luck," she told me. With a sigh, I left. I had survived another day with my infuriating yet undeniably handsome boss.I stopped dead in my tracks when I saw a bouquet of flowers on my desk. Red roses, beautifully arranged, clearly an expensive bouquet.I looked around the room. It was still early, and there weren't many people in the office yet. It was only seven in the morning, and I was the only employee on this floor. I had intentionally come in early to catch up on my work, which was a mess. I had promised to personally talk to Mr. Lao and apologize for my stupidity. I just hoped Mr. Lao wasn't as grumpy as Sir Jax.“I wonder who put these here?” I whispered. Chelle and I shared an office, while Miss Cindy was in the office across from us. She was the Executive Secretary, and Chelle and I were her assistants.I picked up the card attached to the flowers and read it.“Dear Bree, I hope this flower brightens up your day. Always smile, you have a very beautiful smile. Your secret admirer.” I raised an eyebrow at the message on the small card. “Secret admirer? Who could it be? This is ridiculous.” Ho
"What the f*ck are you doing?!""Oh, f*ck you, sir!" I shrieked in shock when a thunderous voice boomed behind me. It reverberated through the kitchen walls. It felt like an earthquake because of how loud his voice was.I was so startled that, in my attempt to clutch my chest, I almost dropped the plate in my hands. Fortunately, I caught it just in time—otherwise, I would’ve been in trouble again.I turned around only to see a scowling Jackson Samaniego standing at the kitchen door. His face was flushed red, and he was panting. His massive physique almost filled the entire doorway, making him look larger than life. With his towering height and menacing expression, he was truly terrifying—like a raging beast ready to devour its breakfast. And unfortunately, I was that breakfast.But instead of being scared of his fierce expression, I couldn’t help but let my eyes roam over his bare upper body. He wasn’t wearing a shirt, and the only thing covering his lower half was a thin pair of boxe
I was fidgeting in my seat while waiting for Miss Cindy. I could barely breathe as I stared at the glass door of our cubicle with Chelle because of my racing heart. My forehead and palms were sweating, and I felt like today was my last day."It's really your last day! Do you think Sir Jax will let you get away with what you did?"I wanted to yell at the part of my brain that was always the villain. It kept saying things that made me lose confidence in myself.What if Sir Jax sues me? Oh my God, where will I get the money for that? What if I get fired? He'll probably charge me a lot because he almost burned down his house.I slapped my forehead. I was thinking all sorts of things, and I was sure one of them would happen.I heard Chelle let out a deep sigh. She was also restless. We were both waiting for Miss Cindy to come back. She was still talking to Sir Jax in his office about what happened yesterday. I was embarrassed for Miss Cindy because she always defended me whenever I did som
“Yeah, right! This girl is still in denial! Your nose twitched, which means you were thrilled too!” Chelle wasn't satisfied and let out a loud laugh, as if we were the only people in the office. “I just know it! I have a strong feeling about Sir Jax. I even suspect that he’s your secret admirer, the one who keeps sending you flowers. Wow! You’re really gorgeous, girl!” Chelle added excitedly.I wanted to cover my face in embarrassment at what she was saying. That was impossible. I could clearly see how much he loved his late wife—what am I compared to the women he's dating now?I smacked Chelle again just as she was about to speak. She was saying all sorts of nonsense.Wasn’t she afraid that our colleagues might hear her?“Whatever. I’m going to the cafeteria. I suddenly got hungry.” I walked out, leaving Chelle behind. I didn’t want to talk to her when she brought up that topic. It was embarrassing and annoying. It was impossible, given the way our boss treated me.Sir Jax’s office w
Bree took a deep breath to calm her frantic heart. Her nervousness doubled when she finally faced Sir Jax and saw the anger in his eyes. They were blazing with accusation.Bree swallowed hard."Jax, darling, what took you so long?" Elise suddenly appeared from behind Jax, her face scowling. But when she saw Jax carrying Amy, her expression quickly changed. Her face brightened, and she gave the child an overly sweet smile. Bree couldn't tell if it was genuine or just for show."Amy, baby! Oh, my... I was so worried about you! Where have you been? Are you alright?" Elise dramatically exclaimed as she approached and hugged the child.Bree grimaced at Elise’s exaggerated tone. Okay. Confirmed. It was all for show. Bree raised an eyebrow when Elise deliberately pressed her body against Jackson while hugging the child.It was no secret among Jackson’s employees that the two had some kind of relationship—if it could even be called that. Elise Trinidad always visited Jackson Samaniego, but sh
Jax was pulled from his train of thought when a soft, small hand caressed his face. It was Amy. She was looking at him with questioning eyes.Jax let out a deep sigh and forced a smile at his daughter."What is it, baby?""Daddy, please don’t fire Ate Vicky. It’s not her fault, it was my fault."If there was anyone who could influence Jackson’s decisions, it was his daughter Amy—aside from Cindy, of course, one of his most trusted friends since college. He just loved his daughter dearly. She resembled his late wife so much that it made it hard for Jax to live with her. That’s why she was temporarily staying with Jax’s parents. Besides, he was a total mess right now, and he didn’t want Amy to witness how broken he was."Sir, I’m really sorry. I promise to do better in my job," Amy’s nanny, Vicky, spoke from the side, her voice pleading, face filled with anxiety as if she was about to cry."Amy, baby, we can’t let an irresponsible person be your guardian. Look at what just happened! She
Spartan.The high-end bar owned by the infamous Andrei Morotov. It was Friday night, and as usual, the place was jam-packed. People from high society swarmed the bar like hungry bees. Some were dancing, swaying their bodies to the upbeat music. Everyone was having a good time—some were there searching for a good fuck, while others just wanted booze and entertainment.Andrei grinned widely when he saw Jax approaching their VIP table. And as usual, Jackson’s face was scowling, as if the whole world was his enemy. His brows were always furrowed, and his eyes devoid of emotion.Their group of friends understood why Jackson had become this way. He didn’t talk much anymore; he was always scowling, and he fucked hard. They had even thought he wouldn’t show up. Ever since his wife passed away, he rarely joined them unless it was for an important gathering.“Whoa! Look who’s here, ladies?” Andrei shouted when Jax was near. He spread his arms wide as if to hug him, but Jackson ignored his frien
Spartan. The high-end bar owned by the infamous Andrei Morotov. It's Friday night, and as usual, the place was jammed-pack. People from the high society were swarming the bar like hungry bees. Some were dancing and bouncing their bodies to the upbeat music. Everybody was having a good time; some were out to search for a good fuck, while others just wanted to have some booze and enjoy. Andrei grinned widely as he saw Jax approaching their table in the VIP section. And as usual, Jackson's face was scowling like the whole world was his enemy. His furrowed brows and emotionless eyes were a constant fixture.His friends understood why the man had become like this. He doesn't talk too much anymore; he's always scowling and he fucks hard. They all thought he wouldn't show up. Since his wife died, he hasn't been showing up much, except for important gatherings.“Whoa! Look who’s here, ladies?” Andrei shouted loudly when Jax was close. He opened his arms as if he was going to hug Jax, but
Bree's mouth gaped open in disbelief at what she was seeing. When her boss, Jackson Samaniego, invited her to have dinner before they talked, she thought they would eat outside.Bree was even nervous because she hadn't gotten dressed up, and she was embarrassed by her dolphin shorts and tank top. She was literally just wearing pajamas, and if she were to change, it would be embarrassing to make her boss wait.He didn't need to wait for her to finish eating before they talked. Bree already had an idea what they were going to talk about. What happened in the office earlier! Maybe he would demand something from her! Or maybe he would fire her for what she did.“Mr. Samaniego, I know why you're here and why you want to talk to me. It's about what happened in the office earlier.” Bree swallowed. Jackson was just staring at her with no emotions. All she wanted was for him to leave so she could breathe a sigh of relief!Jax was sitting in front of Bree, staring at her. But contrary to Bree's
After bidding farewell to his parents, Jax quickly left the Samaniego mansion. His mother wanted him to bring Elise home first before he left, but he declined. He didn't want to be with the woman for even a minute. He was mad and disgusted.Madeline was surprised by her son's behavior, but she didn't push him. She saw how angry Jackson was. She didn't want to make him angrier, so she let Jax leave. Madeline didn't force Jax to take Elise home because she saw how angry he was with the woman. Whatever the reason was, Madeline didn't know. She just hoped that the two would talk.Madeline heaved out a deep breath as she watched her first-born son speed away from the mansion's premises. The woman was sad about her son's behavior. Madeline just hoped that Jax would drive safely.Jax sped up the car. He stepped on the gas hard, making the engine rev and the car bolted through the streets like lightning. He was suffocating, and he needed to breathe. He was about to explode with anger just a m
Jackson drove his Audi Q2 out of the parking lot of Diamond Entertainment. He left the office early. He was stressed and bothered, and he lost concentration on his work. Jackson hadn't seen Bree again all day. He was thinking that maybe she was really scared of him. He didn't look for the girl to talk to her either. If anyone saw them, it would surely cause an issue.Jax's face contorted at the thought of the girl spreading the word about what happened in his office. He would be the subject of ridicule if that happened. He groaned in frustration. “Asshole.” Surely she wouldn't do that. He was still her boss, and she should still respect him!But what if she starts talking? And you'll be dubbed as a pervert CEO?“Fuck!” Jackson cursed and lightly hit the steering wheel. It seemed like he really needed to talk to that woman. He couldn't wait until tomorrow. A lot could happen tonight. Jackson's mind started to overthink already.If they didn't have dinner with his family tonight, he wou
“Miss Ocampo!” Jackson’s voice boomed so Bree could hear him, but she didn't listen, she continued running away from the place. Jackson cursed.Jax called out to Bree the moment she stepped out of the CEO’s office. Jax hadn't even finished buttoning his slacks. He quickly went after Bree, but he couldn't catch her. Jackson couldn't leave his office looking like that.He had just had one of the best orgasms of his life, and it was very evident on his face. Flushed face, beads of sweat gathered around his face, and he had that just-got-off expression on his face. He would surely become the talk of the town when that happened.If only Jax could turn back the clock, he would want to erase those embarrassing moments of his life. Fate was a real joker, of all the people who could witness the bizarre thing he was doing, it was the very woman he was fantasizing about.So, you admit that you really lusted over your employee? A part of Jax's brain whispered. Jackson wanted to go crazy and punch
Jax stared at Bree’s retreating back as she scurried away from the CEO’s office. He released an exasperated sigh and leaned back on his swivel chair. Gusto niyang magmura at magwala. He had an aching blue ball and he can’t do anything but just stare at it until calms again. Jax closed his eyes and cupped his hard as a rock shaft. Masakit iyon, naiipit kasi sa suot nitong slacks. He bit his lip as a surge of carnal pleasure enveloped his burning body. He gripped his covered shaft harder and he began to massage it, stroking it up and down above the fabric of his slacks. Jax moaned softly as the delicious sensation of playing with his own hardness crept up. He placed one arm over his eyes while his other hand was busy squeezing and massaging his manhood. Jackson knew what he’s about to do was illegal. But it wasn’t new to him. He had imagined that woman many times while he’s having sex with other girls. His mind and heart wanted to feel guilty but the only part of his body that he
“You wanted to talk to me, Mr. Samaniego.” Bree’s voice was small and uncertain. Bree bit her lip subtly. Her knees were shaking, and she had nothing to lean on for support! She looked at her trembling hand, she had no energy to look at him. Shame and fear, those were the emotions Bree felt now that she was facing the man. He looked so handsome sitting behind his desk. Mysterious and aloof, that's what you could describe him as. But Bree could see sadness behind those very enigmatic eyes. He's hurt, and Bree knows the reason. It wasn't a secret to any of them. Their very strict boss was still suffering the loss of his beloved wife. But there were also times when she couldn't read what emotions were playing in his eyes. In the few months she had been working here, Bree had become familiar with her boss. She may not say it out loud to her co-workers, but Bree was drawn to him. She wouldn't admit it! It even took her a long time to admit it. Bree felt a very tiny pang of pain in her
“Bree, Sir Renz is calling for you.” Bree looked up from what she was doing. She was at the photocopying machine, and it had been hours. Her arms were starting to ache. She looked at Olga in confusion, but the girl just gave her a mischievous smile before turning away. She even whistled while jumping like a kindergarten kid. Bree just shook her head, laughing at her colleague. Olga was one of her closest friends, even though she had just started in the department. She was kind and always smiling. She always had jokes, so Bree easily warmed up to her, like Chelle. Bree was sure the two would get along if they were together. Bree left what she was doing and went to Sir Renz's office. His office was separated within their department. He's a department head, it's only fitting that he would have a separate office from his subordinates. Bree wondered what this was all about. Maybe he just had some research to give her, that's what Bree thought. In the two weeks she had been here, that's
Bree woke up with a sour taste in her mouth. Her forehead creased from the sudden surge of pain in her head. She was still half asleep. She groaned and tried to open her eyes. When she couldn't open them, she felt around the empty space next to her. The soft and cold mattress felt good on her warm palms. Bree's brow furrowed even more, she was wondering why her bed was so big. Her bed wasn't as wide as this one. And the mattress was so soft, her mattress wasn't that soft. It was thin and about to break. Realization dawned on her. She wasn't in her own bed. Bree immediately sat up from lying down. She grabbed her head when the pain and dizziness attacked her. She groaned and went back to lie in bed. What was happening? Bree slowly opened her eyes and examined her surroundings. She gasped when she realized she wasn't in her room! “Oh my god, where am I?” Bree exclaimed in fear, pulling the blanket on the bed. It was an automatic reaction from her body, to cover herself. On impulse
Bree went back to the convention hall. It took her minutes to contemplate whether she should go back or just go home. But her colleagues would be surprised if she suddenly disappeared from the party. So she decided to go back, she would just avoid her boss so she wouldn't feel uncomfortable. Jackson was already finished with his speech when Bree returned. The soft music played by a group of musicians could be heard. The event was star-studded, and Bree would always remember this night. A group of wealthy businessmen were laughing happily as they talked to a famous actor. They all looked so elegant and they talked with dignity. Bree wondered what it felt like to be born with a silver spoon in your mouth. “Bree!” Bree was lost in her deep thoughts when she heard her name. When she looked at who called her, it was Renz. A big grin was etched on his lips, he was happy with what Bree was wearing. He approached Bree and looked her up and down. Most of the time, Bree would feel awkward