“No, no. There’s no one. I wouldn’t even entertain it if a guy actually showed interest. I doubt I would even notice. I would like to focus on my work and building my savings. I don’t have time to date.” Shit. Her statements were like a double-edged sword. She has someone she likes and she’s saying all these to him. What in the world? How would he get a clue?“I mean, dating isn’t necessarily a bad thing. You just have to be careful when choosing whom to go out with. When you go out on dates, make sure the places you go to have a lot of people. And always tell someone where you are, just in case something happens.” His lecture continued and she began to look exasperated.“Really, I won’t be dating anyone anytime soon. I swear!” She even raised her right hand and promised him.“You can’t be sure. You might find someone you like. I’m just giving your reminders, just in case.”“I already have someone I like.” She ended up muttering. She froze before covering her mouth with her hands. Shi
On her birthday, Renzo did come home early.She wore the red sexy lingerie, underneath a stylish casual coat. It’s nothing over the top.She prepared a few dishes that they both liked and Renzo got her the cake. He also gave her a gift. This time, a bracelet. It would go well with her watch.She’s allowed to drink now, too, so she got a can of beer for herself. If it’s true that it helps in removing inhibitions, she needed that. After a few gulps, she decided that she’ll do it.Renzo watched as she had her internal struggle. He was amused at first, not knowing what’s going on in her mind.She bit her lower lip as she stood up. She moved around the table, standing beside his seat. When Renzo reached for a can of beer, she immediately removed her coat.Renzo was stunned for a few seconds before he started choking on the beer. He coughed very badly and it took a while to stop. Ciara handed him napkins. Renzo avoided looking at her body.“What are you doing? Wear your coat.” He couldn’t d
It was a sad experience and Ciara would admit that she felt a little heartbroken. The rejection was very clear. Renzo himself was surprised she has feelings for him. And he still treated her like a kid. That much was obvious. Well, she could still grow up and show him she’s no longer a child.Over the course of the next few years, their dynamics at home didn’t change much. Once in a while, like every other month, Ciara would tease him and express her feelings again, saying things like “I like you” or “I love you” but Renzo has never taken them seriously. He thought it’s just an expression of her gratitude or something. She’s being sweet. The other notable change is that Ciara’s choices in clothing are more… how do you say it? They fit her more and accentuate her body shape. Initially, she was feeling awkward with it but she eventually felt that the fit was actually comfortable. Renzo did notice the change but he didn’t comment on it. He’d seen other girls wearing such clothes anyway.
She was being playful. Sometimes she would kiss his cheek at the most random times. He’d never associated it with anything. Just Ciara being a sweet person. He never noticed nor cared how others perceived their closeness. Sure, she confessed before and she often told him she liked him, but he never took her seriously.“So, she’s an adult already. Are you sure you still won’t allow me to become her boyfriend?” Todd asked and he narrowed his eyes on him.“Who?”“Man, are you pretending? You live with her. Haven’t you seen how she’s hot as hell? Haven’t you seen how many guys are salivating just looking at her? I’m sure a lot of them already fucked her in their minds.”Renzo saw red. “What the fuck? Watch your words.” He almost went to grab Todd’s collar.Kyle watched from the side. “You do know how much Renzo cares for her. Why do you still have to talk about her that way? Show some respect.”“But man, are you really not going to give me a chance? I could give her a good time.”That’s i
“Hi, you’re here.” Ciara greeted him as he showed up where she worked. She did like celebrating his birthdays together and she’d been looking forward to this day. She’s both excited and nervous. She got him a gift, but it still isn’t much. It’s only an ordinary laptop. She’s in no doubt he would lend it to her if she asked, but no . . . she doesn’t plan on doing that. Some things are easier done on a laptop than on a phone. She left the gift at home, though.“Quick, this way. I’ll have your cake ready.” She pulled him into a booth and went to prepare their dinner. She’s supposed to clock out in fifteen minutes.“You really didn’t have to.” He stated when she returned with some dishes for them.“Don’t be like that. It’s a celebration.” She leaned over to kiss his cheek.“Happy birthday! Wait, I’ll get your cake.”Somehow, today felt different. I mean, she usually gives him random kisses on the cheeks, but her doing it publicly today is a first. Okay, let’s suppose it’s only because it’
One of her hands gripped his clothes as she whispered, “You do?”He didn’t reply. Instead, he kissed her again. Gently. Passionately. He held her nape as they continued to kiss. Ciara felt like she’s truly dreaming. No way Renzo would be kissing her like this.She moaned as he slowly became aggressive with his kisses. Just thinking how he could have missed her was enough to make him feel too much, that someone else could have taken her away from him.He can’t get enough of her as she tasted so sweet in his tongue. When they parted and she managed to catch her breath, she bravely looked at him.“Renzo?” She wanted to ask, but she still couldn’t be sure this wasn’t a product of her imagination. Maybe they drunk too much celebrating his birthday, now she’s having the sweetest dream of all time. Anytime now, she’ll wake . . .“I . . .” Renzo started, but he doesn’t know how to begin. He found comfort in the fact that she kissed him back and she’s not pulling away.He took a deep breath be
Renzo gently lowered her into the bed. Ciara clung to his neck and didn’t let go. They allowed themselves to get lost in each other’s eyes before Renzo kissed her again. She sighed at the reality of it, savoring his taste, biting his lips, sucking them as well as his wandering tongue. It felt really good. It was a while before it turned heated. Ciara could feel herself burning, her temperature going up as her lust-filled haze continued to strengthen. Her moans reached Renzo and he let go of himself as well. It’s been too long since he last touched a woman. A very desirable woman. He kissed her with more intensity, before moving to taste the rest of her body, her jaws, her neck, what little skin he could reach at the collar of her shirt. He slowly unbuttoned it as he returned to taste her mouth, Ciara mimicking his movements. She whimpered as she felt his hand inside her blouse. It was hot against her skin. In truth, she’s still a virgin. She has no knowledge or experience except for w
Ciara woke up the next morning, staring at Renzo’s face. She shivered a little as she became aware of her nakedness under the blanket. Her bare skin touching Renzo’s body. She didn’t dare move, catching her breath. She still couldn’t believe the events of last night. It felt like a dream to her. How long had she pined for him? After her failed attempt to confess and seduce him on her eighteenth birthday, she was too cowardly to try again. She satisfied herself with the fact that they were still living together. Although, yes, she sometimes got that feeling that Renzo was treating her like a younger sibling, she was appreciative of it compared to losing him completely. As she secretly loved him, she treasured every day she got to see him, and talk with him. It was enough for her. Yes, she also wanted more, but she can’t be greedy. She only hoped to make him happy, in whatever way she can. He did appreciate how she always prepared dinner, having someone to talk to, among other little th
They didn’t rush it, though. Ciara knew now that he truly meant to make her his wife. She was reassured. And so, her being the thrifty person that she was, they scheduled it on Ranz’s second birthday.“Shouldn’t you want a different anniversary date? Or are you afraid I would forget our wedding anniversary?”Ciara chuckled, “There’s no point celebrating two different dates when we can celebrate them on the same day.”“But think about it, when Ranz’s older, he would wonder why his parents are nowhere to be seen after his birthday party.”She laughed even more at his insinuation. “I didn’t think about that.”“It’s a pity your birthday already passed.”“I think I’m selfish. I purposely wanted separate celebrations for my birthdate and our anniversary.”“Is that right?” He finally came to the bed after sendin
He took a deep breath as he held her hand. “Alright. Is that what you need? Would that make you feel better?”“Hmm.” She nodded before scrunching up her face.“What’s wrong?”“I’m not being silly, am I?” She didn’t really feel good about this situation, but she also needed to let him know. She felt burdened by it.“You’re not. I’ll see if I can get a leave. We’ll do it, then.”She seemed to be relieved upon hearing his statement.“But I still want you to indulge yourself a bit. Let’s go out for dinner tomorrow. Then, we’ll go shopping next weekend.”“Don’t be wasteful. We really have to save as much as we can. We have a kid we need to send to college!”His lip twitched before he let out a chuckle. “We have plenty of time to prepare for that. He’s barely two years old.”
They got the house and they moved in a month later. Aside from their family, they both became busy with their respective things. He remained focused on his job, whereas she began studying for her degree. It’s been a long while since she last held a book and read for hours. When she attended her classes, she was nervous to meet her professors and classmates. They kept asking her why she chose the flexible learning delivery. She had to explain she has a child at home. They didn’t say much after that. College students are infinitely more mature than high school students. Well, there were few but most were focused on learning. She was afraid she’ll get bullied for being old, but no. They were actually respectful to her. They treated her as an older sister. That made things easier for Ciara.The first semester was difficult to navigate but she managed to adapt halfway through. She continued to be supportive of Renzo. That guy was clearly pressured at work so she
The next day, he quickly asked Ciara if she wanted to take a morning-after pill. Her reaction was similar to his. Her eyes widened in shock.“Go and get one!” She shooed him away so early in the morning after consuming hot coffee. He doesn’t mind, though. He leisurely walked, meeting people he knew and exchanging greetings with them.For the remainder of the day, he was mostly resting. At night, they spent another passionate union. He was feeling very relaxed up until Ranz’s first birthday. He and the boys were busy arranging tables and chairs in the garden. The landlady was kind enough to watch over the kid as Ciara prepared some of the food. The rest were simply ordered, like the cake and the dessert.Overall, it was a meaningful celebration. They made sure Ranz was the center of it, meeting all his friendly aunts and uncles. He got plenty of gifts, too. They all had fun and the kid was surprisingly very active. He only felt tired a cou
Ciara stared at the door with trepidation. Is someone trying to break in? She reached out and ensured the locks are in place. She grabbed the phone and readied herself to dial the police. She thought of Renzo, realizing how scared she was in that moment. She hoped she was just hearing things and no one was outside. Her eyes constricted when she heard a cough. Please, no. She pleaded in her mind. Just go away. “Ciara? It’s me. Can you open the door?” Renzo decided there’s no other way to do it.But she frowned. Is she still hearing things? That voice sounded a lot like her boyfriend’s.“Renzo?” She called out without moving an inch. Her hand gripped the phone. She should call him to check if it’s really him outside. But why would he be outside? He didn’t say he’s coming. He was scheduled for next week.Was she dreaming? Was she missing him too much that her mind came up with this scenario? He’ll be home soon enough.“It’s me. Open the door.” He replied in a low tone, not wanting to wa
The next day, Kyle and Todd showed up again. Aside from groceries, they also brought some sweets and ice cream.“What’s the occasion?” She invited them in, and they actually entered the place. This surprised her a little.“Well, your man called. Said you might need some cheering up, so . . . ice cream!”Ciara chuckled as she took out some bowls and spoons. She noticed how Kyle didn’t close the door so she kept it that way. The morning sunlight was nice.Todd went straight for Ranz.“Isn’t he getting chubby?”“Well, all he does is sleep, eat and play. He would cry when he doesn’t get his fill of the milk, it’s making me a little worried. Should I give him less?” She almost wanted to laugh at seeing their horrified expressions at getting asked. What do they know?“Uh, should I ask a doctor? It’s fine for babies to be a little chubby, no? Just don’t let him become overweight. Do you know how much he weighs?”“I don’t know. I just know his weight when he was born. Should I get a scale?”“
She actually cried when he came back and he was quick to reassure her.“I’m here now. You shouldn’t cry.” He himself was worried. They’re first-time parents and didn’t know much about raising a child. She must be stressed taking care of their son alone.He hugged her for almost half an hour in the doorway before they heard Ranz crying awake. He travelled very early in the morning, hours before dawn, allowing him to reach home around eight o’clock. Ciara quickly wiped her tears and scrambled to check on the baby. Renzo wasn’t sure what to feel. She was quite dedicated as a mother. He followed her inside the house and was feeling immensely happy to see his family, the two most important people in his life. He would do anything and everything he can for them.“Have you made breakfast?” He suddenly asked, which startled Ciara. She was sitting on the bed, holding Ranz and comforting him.“I’m sorry. I haven’t yet. I’ll get you coffee.” She looked guilty and was about to get up. He reached
“What’s wrong?” He noticed her tears. He went over to check on her. She hugged him by the waist.“I love you.” It was a pity she couldn’t put into words just how much she loved him. She would never let him go.Renzo smiled, holding her and pressing a kiss on top of her head.“I love you, too.” It might be unfair to her, but there were moments he would feel doubtful. He knew he shouldn’t but his mind still entertained such thoughts. He knew not to voice them out, of course. It would just hurt her and he didn’t want to do that.Sometimes, he can’t help feeling scared and helpless. They might love each other now, but what if things changed? Though she assured him plenty of times, the seed of doubt remained. He did feel guilty about it and he’s making sure he didn’t slip. What would she say if she found out? He already knew it wouldn’t be good. Every day, he would try to focus on the present and stop worrying about what-ifs.Months later, Ciara gave birth to a very healthy little boy. The
When they returned home, Ciara noticed him acting a little odd.She couldn’t help laughing out loud when he finally voiced his concerns.“Would you be tempted to choose a millionaire over me?”She sobered when she recalled that it was his insecurity. That damned Cheryl.“No. I’ll choose you over any millionaire.” She kissed his lips, but he pulled back.“How about a billionaire?” He looked cute, though exasperating.“Still you.” She kissed him again and he responded intimately this time. She smiled. He’s easily convinced these days. If this was before, he’ll probably be questioning her for a while longer. Maybe now he knew she truly loved him and would choose him over anyone else.They already agreed on a date when to get married. She’ll have to process the paperwork as he’s busy with work. They now have a regular schedule on going out and having dates