The day everyone had eagerly awaited had finally dawned, marking a pivotal moment in Aria’s life—the day she would marry James, the man she had come to love deeply. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and joy as everyone gathered to witness their union. For Aria, this day symbolized more than just a wedding; it was the culmination of love, hope, and the promise of a brighter future with the man she adored. The lush surroundings of Tagaytay, with its verdant gardens and crisp air, provided the perfect backdrop for this momentous occasion. The ceremony was an intimate affair, held in a private garden adorned with vibrant blooms that complemented the couple's chosen motif. Close family members, friends, and relatives graced the event, their presence filling the venue with warmth and love. The muted hum of laughter and heartfelt conversations echoed through the garden, setting a serene yet celebratory tone. Each guest felt privileged to witness the beginning of this new chapter in Aria
Aria stood there, her emotions churning as she absorbed James's words. The casual way he spoke made it difficult for her to read his true feelings, but the weight of his confession lingered in the air. She had never expected to hear him express such regret, especially when they had already crossed the boundaries of their relationship in ways she couldn't even explain. She had known from the moment they met that James was different, but hearing him admit it so openly was both flattering and confusing."Really?" she finally asked, her voice catching slightly, unable to hide the sudden vulnerability that bubbled to the surface.It was strange how easily he could make her feel like the center of his world, even when she hadn’t expected it.James, sensing the momentary hesitation, gave a playful shrug, the corner of his mouth curling into a smile. "Yeah," he continued, his voice light and easy, but there was a hint of sincerity in his eyes that she couldn't ignore. "I just can’t explain it
His words were laced with promise, and Aria could feel the tension in the air, crackling between them like a live wire.Aria gasped softly when she felt his hand slide between her thighs, a slow, deliberate touch that made her body tremble. The warmth of his palm against her sensitive skin sent a rush of desire straight to her core."You decide," she said, her voice light with teasing playfulness, but underneath it, there was an undeniable edge of anticipation. "Because whatever you do, it feels amazing."Her breath hitched as she leaned into him, her fingers trailing lightly across his chest, feeling the rapid beat of his heart beneath her touch.James’s eyes darkened with an even deeper hunger as he watched her, the flame of desire burning brighter with every second. He kissed her fiercely, one hand still gripping her, the other moving to her lace panties, his fingers working quickly to tear them off with a force that sent a shiver through Aria’s body."Yeah, but," he muttered again
“Oh God, you're so deep,” Paula moaned, her voice trembling with pleasure as she began to move atop James, her back arched in the reverse cowgirl position. Every curve of her body undulated as she ground against him, her soft skin glistening under the dim bedroom light. “You're so big, I can feel you in my tummy,” she whispered breathlessly, her hips quickening as the rhythm between them intensified.James’s hands gripped her hips firmly, guiding her movements as she rode him. He watched her with a burning intensity, mesmerized by the way her slender waist swayed above him, her figure creating an erotic silhouette against the shadows of the room. His desire flared, each sensual movement pushing him closer to the edge. The sight of her delicate back, the soft sway of her hips—it was enough to make him feel as if he were engulfed in flames, his lust for her an insatiable fire.Her moans were like music to his ears, every gasp and breathless cry a symphony of pleasure that echoed in his
ONE MONTH LATERA sharp, pulsing ache clawed at Aria’s skull as she blinked her eyes open, the harsh light of the morning making her wince. Her vision blurred for a moment, and she let out a groan, every pulse of pain in her head like a hammer driving nails into her temples. She lay there, unmoving, feeling the world spin slightly around her. As her senses gradually returned, she became aware of another discomfort—a dull, persistent soreness in her lower body.The ache in her core made her stiffen. It wasn’t just her head that hurt.A hiss of pain slipped past her lips as she shifted on the unfamiliar bed, a sharper sting blossoming at the base of her neck. Her throat felt dry, and her body heavy, as if weighed down by the events she couldn’t fully recall.“Hungover,” she murmured, her voice hoarse and cracked, barely above a whisper. Reaching out blindly, she grasped the nearest pillow and hugged it tightly against her chest. The softness was the only comfort she found amidst the phy
"SORRY, I'm late," Norman panted, slightly out of breath, as he approached his girlfriend, Aria. His eyes flickered with guilt, the faint sheen of sweat on his forehead telling her he had rushed to meet her.Aria, ever understanding, offered a gentle smile that crinkled the corners of her soft brown eyes. "It's okay," she whispered, her voice like a calming breeze. She stepped closer, her heart skipping a beat as she linked her arm around his. The warmth of his presence soothed her, the familiar scent of his cologne lingering between them like a comforting embrace. "Shall we go?"Norman ran his hand through his tousled hair and glanced at her. His deep-set eyes, though weary, sparkled with affection. "Are you sure you're not hungry? Maybe we should grab a bite to eat first," he suggested, his voice laced with concern as they walked slowly toward the jeepney stop. He always looked out for her, even when he was the one who seemed more tired.She adored this about him. It had been over a
James was lost in thought as the early morning light filtered through the windows of the family car, casting soft, golden rays across the polished dashboard. The city streets, bathed in a gentle haze, seemed to move in slow motion as the car glided over them. Mang Damian, the elderly family driver, maintained his usual composed demeanor, his hands steady on the steering wheel, his eyes scanning the road with a practiced calm.James, wrapped in the cocoon of his thoughts, finally broke the silence. “How’s your family, Mang Damian?” His voice was a soft murmur, trying to bridge the quiet that enveloped them.Mang Damian’s weathered face creased into a warm smile as he glanced at James through the rearview mirror. The glint of the morning sun reflected off his spectacles, giving him an air of quiet wisdom. “We’re doing well, hijo,” he said, his voice rich with a sense of familiarity. “Let me guess, your father must have had another talk with you about settling down, right?” His tone was
"Enough, Aria. You’re not even a drinker. You’ll be completely wasted," Jocel’s voice was laced with genuine concern as she tried to take the beer from her friend’s hand.Aria’s smile was a shadow of its usual warmth, tinged with bitterness. Her eyes, which should have sparkled with mischief, were clouded with tears. She turned to Jocel, her face contorted in both anger and sorrow. "Damn him!" she cursed, her words sharp and raw, directed at Norman.Jocel exhaled heavily, her own heart aching at the sight of her friend’s distress. She peered into Aria’s eyes, searching for answers. "Did something happen between you and Norman, sis?" Her question was hesitant but filled with a caring undertone.Aria’s resolve crumbled, and she began to sob, her tears spilling uncontrollably. She shook her head as if trying to deny the reality of her pain. "Maybe that’s why he treated me like this because I refused to let anything happen between us," she whispered, her voice breaking as she dabbed at he
His words were laced with promise, and Aria could feel the tension in the air, crackling between them like a live wire.Aria gasped softly when she felt his hand slide between her thighs, a slow, deliberate touch that made her body tremble. The warmth of his palm against her sensitive skin sent a rush of desire straight to her core."You decide," she said, her voice light with teasing playfulness, but underneath it, there was an undeniable edge of anticipation. "Because whatever you do, it feels amazing."Her breath hitched as she leaned into him, her fingers trailing lightly across his chest, feeling the rapid beat of his heart beneath her touch.James’s eyes darkened with an even deeper hunger as he watched her, the flame of desire burning brighter with every second. He kissed her fiercely, one hand still gripping her, the other moving to her lace panties, his fingers working quickly to tear them off with a force that sent a shiver through Aria’s body."Yeah, but," he muttered again
Aria stood there, her emotions churning as she absorbed James's words. The casual way he spoke made it difficult for her to read his true feelings, but the weight of his confession lingered in the air. She had never expected to hear him express such regret, especially when they had already crossed the boundaries of their relationship in ways she couldn't even explain. She had known from the moment they met that James was different, but hearing him admit it so openly was both flattering and confusing."Really?" she finally asked, her voice catching slightly, unable to hide the sudden vulnerability that bubbled to the surface.It was strange how easily he could make her feel like the center of his world, even when she hadn’t expected it.James, sensing the momentary hesitation, gave a playful shrug, the corner of his mouth curling into a smile. "Yeah," he continued, his voice light and easy, but there was a hint of sincerity in his eyes that she couldn't ignore. "I just can’t explain it
The day everyone had eagerly awaited had finally dawned, marking a pivotal moment in Aria’s life—the day she would marry James, the man she had come to love deeply. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and joy as everyone gathered to witness their union. For Aria, this day symbolized more than just a wedding; it was the culmination of love, hope, and the promise of a brighter future with the man she adored. The lush surroundings of Tagaytay, with its verdant gardens and crisp air, provided the perfect backdrop for this momentous occasion. The ceremony was an intimate affair, held in a private garden adorned with vibrant blooms that complemented the couple's chosen motif. Close family members, friends, and relatives graced the event, their presence filling the venue with warmth and love. The muted hum of laughter and heartfelt conversations echoed through the garden, setting a serene yet celebratory tone. Each guest felt privileged to witness the beginning of this new chapter in Aria
Aria and James were busy in the following days. A month before their wedding, James decided to take a leave from work so they could both focus on preparing for their special day.The day after the incident involving Norman's abduction of Aria, James decided it was best to have her meet with a psychologist. Jocel did the same for her daughter, Janna.As expected, James proceeded with filing charges against Norman and Paula. Aria didn’t object to it, as she knew it was the right thing to do. If there was anything she learned from everything that happened, it was that harboring negative emotions such as anger, jealousy, envy, and greed does no good for anyone.Learn to accept and let go. True love knows how to set someone free. Above all, real love makes mistakes but remains genuine and faithful.That evening, after dinner, James headed to their bedroom ahead of Aria to rest. After the incident, he had suggested they return to San Benjamin, as the serene scenery there helped calm her min
"JAMES?" Aria’s voice trembled as the phone call connected, her fingers clutching the device tightly, as if the sound of his voice could anchor her to reality.The moment she heard it, the familiar warmth of his tone sent a wave of both comfort and unease through her. It was a lifeline in the midst of the storm, yet it also heightened the sense of urgency pressing down on her chest. Her heart was pounding furiously, the blood rushing in her ears as her mind raced, her thoughts jumbled by the fear threatening to consume her."Aria, sweetheart, why did you call? Sorry, I was in a meeting earlier and couldn’t answer your calls," James replied, his voice thick with concern, almost as if he could sense the panic lacing her every word.She could feel the worry in his tone, and despite how comforting it was, it made her heart ache. She wanted nothing more than to ease his anxiety, but she couldn’t bring herself to hide the gravity of the situation."I'm going to see Norman," Aria said, barely
James had brought Aria to his mansion in Quezon City after her stay in the hospital, the decision mostly due to her delicate pregnancy. Although they had planned to return to San Benjamin soon, staying in the city felt like the better option for now, given her condition. But, despite the practicality of it all, Aria couldn’t quite shake the feeling that there was more to James’s decision. If it was just about her needing care, Aling Erlie back in San Benjamin could have handled that just as well. So, what was his real reason for keeping her here?It was Sunday when Jocel came to visit, bringing a refreshing change of energy to the house. “I think he’s just worried about you,” she said casually, as if reading Aria’s mind. Aria nodded slowly, her attention shifting to Jocel’s daughter, Janna, who was playing on the swing in the garden. The sight made Aria smile. "My goddaughter has grown so much," she said, watching the child happily chase after the swing. "It feels like just yesterday
Aria’s voice trembled with disbelief as she confronted James, her emotions a mix of shock and a strange pang of pity for Paula despite all that had transpired. "You had her arrested?" she asked, her wide eyes reflecting her internal conflict. It was hard to reconcile her compassionate nature with the vindictive justice that had befallen the woman who had wronged her.James met her gaze with unwavering intensity, his voice laced with anger and protectiveness. "It was the least she deserved," he stated firmly. "After everything she did to you, knowing full well you were carrying my child? If I think about it, her actions weren’t just against you—they were against our baby too." His jaw tightened, his fists clenching momentarily before he reached out to her. "And against me. She didn’t just hurt you; she hurt us."Aria’s heart wavered as she absorbed his words. As much as she wanted to argue, she couldn’t deny the truth behind his reasoning. Her voice softened, her thoughts spilling out
"WHAT?" Aria asked abruptly upon receiving a call from her mother that evening.Her face paled, and her hands trembled as she held the phone tightly against her ear, listening intently to every word on the other end. The urgency in her mother’s voice had sent a chill down her spine, and her mind immediately raced to the worst possible scenarios. James, who was focused on the steering wheel, glanced at her with concern. They had just left the office after a long day, eager to grab dinner before heading back to San Benjamin. But the shift in Aria’s demeanor had caught his attention. He slowed the car slightly, his brows furrowing as he tried to read the situation."What happened, love?" he asked gently, his voice laced with worry. Aria pressed her lips tightly together, struggling to process the news. After a deep breath, she responded to her mother on the phone. "Alright, please handle it. If he doesn’t stop, report him to the police or even to the barangay to scare him off. But plea
James couldn’t deny the intense longing that surged through him as he looked at Aria. Her words, filled with honesty and vulnerability, had struck a chord deep within him. Without thinking, he kissed her again, this time with more urgency. His lips pressed firmly against hers, as if trying to convey the emotions he couldn’t put into words. He held her by the hips, his grip strong yet gentle, and lifted her, pulling her closer to him. The heat between them grew stronger, and the longing he had for her, the need to feel every inch of her, became all-consuming.Aria’s reaction always fascinated him. Most of the time, when he kissed her, she closed her eyes, as if losing herself completely in the moment. James often found himself watching her as she surrendered to him, her body melting into his. The vulnerability in her eyes, the way she gave herself to him with such trust, made his heart swell with emotion. Every time they made love, she allowed herself to be completely open with him,