Miss Vera was delighted to see me in the office early Monday morning. Although it wasn't a surprise because I notified her of my return, still, elation was visible on her face. "Ciara, It is so nice to know your daughter recovered speedily," unusual but she was smiling in good spirits. I thanked her for understanding my situation and letting me take off for two weeks. She discussed everything that occurred in our department and it thrilled me to learn that we got quite a number of new clients under our company. She told me not to worry about it because she could certainly handle them even if I took more days of leave to attend to my daughter's needs. Since Catie was all good and having Lea as an efficient help, not to mention Denver made it all easier for me, I assured her that taking additional off is not necessary."Mr. Baker was pleased for completing his requirements ahead of schedule," She was flipping some of the piled documents on her table. When she found what she was lookin
With so much exhaustion in my chest, I put my head down on the steering wheel. I rested and all I could do was poured my weariness not able to care for anything else around me. I didn't know long I was in that state when I heard someone knocking on my window. Weakly, I opened my eyes and tilted to see who it was. With so much worry printed on his face, Denver motioned for me to unlock the door. "Are you alright?" he caressed my face and caged me tightly. It was my fault that I made him distraught. I never gave a hint at what occurred to me. When he pulled out, "You scared the shit out of me, baby," he kissed my temple and fixed the sticky hair that was messing with my face because of so much crying. "What's the matter?" with knitted brows, he asked cautiously. Without even saying a single word yet, my tears pooled again and quickly fell out of my eyes. "I... I... I saw dad," I couldn't speak patently. My emotion went overboard and I had no strength to expound the thing. Denver w
Right away, I let Miss Vera know about the meeting over dinner. She approved of it and gave me some couple of advice on how to win clients. Truth be told, I had no idea why she believed in me and trusted my capability in the sales department despite the fact that I felt having low self-esteem. I couldn't guess what she saw in me.As well, I called and informed Denver about the sudden schedule. As expected, it was a bit hiccup getting his consent. Even though he knew the kind of job I'm in, he was hesitant to agree. I comprehended his reaction because it wasn't obscured that Pierre had a colorful background when it comes to women. The fact that Denver didn't want me to get home late and compromise the time with our daughter, he didn't want the notorious Pierre Baker to get closer to me. In the middle of our argument, I persuaded him to trust me. "I trust you, baby, It's him that I don't," he sounded emphatic. However, I already gave my confirmation to the other party, so there's no wa
My lips parted and I couldn't prevent my heart from hammering fast. I'd never been involved in a kind of controversy before and to witness my face published in an article was new to me.The first photo was captured at the restaurant where we had our dinner. He was smiling at me while I was talking about something. If no one would know that we were having a business discussion, the suspicion would be, we were having a dinner date.The second one was from my morning visit to Baker's building. We were at the facade and it looked like we were staring at each other meaningfully. Seemed the person who took the photo was a professional because of how perfectly angled the copies were. It was like the two of us were having a deep connection and we were so close to each other. I felt like hallucinating and my mind went blocked on how to detach my name from Pierre's scandalous image. I was oblivious that someone or people were already following and taking photos of us."Ciara, don't worry too m
Right after our delicious dinner, Catie whined for a swim. At first, I refused the idea but when Denver persuaded me that we needed some sort of fun and relaxation, I granted the little girl's wishes. Gladly, it wasn't cold outside as winter is anticipated not until the next two months. "Mommy, hold my hands," Catie was the cutest. We were in the pool feeling the soothing waters that were newly replenished. She was smiling vividly inside her unicorn inflatable swimming ring. Denver was sitting on the edge of the pool a meter away from us while his legs were submerged in the water. He was all smiles taking photos of us and he appeared to be enjoying the thing. I bet capturing moments was his new hobby. Since I didn't want to oppose what he was doing, I let him. Besides, it's not every day that we got the chance to unwind. It took us more than an hour in the pool before we successfully coaxed the little girl to move out of the water. We were afraid she could get sick of so much stayin
I fixed myself rapidly and went to the meeting room with so much trepidation in my system. When I pushed the door open, my heart raced fast to see Mr. Smith already seated talking seriously with Miss Vera. "Miss Ciara, it's so nice to see you again. How are you coping with the gossip online?" He questioned the moment I sat down in the chair abreast of Miss Vera. "Mr. Smith, I'm sorry for the inconvenience it brought to our company," I apologized for the trouble it caused every one of us. "I should have been careful with my meeting appointments most especially with our prominent clientele," I added with so much tension in my tone but did my best to retain my composure. He told me that Miss Vera already explained everything to him. "Ciara, it's normal for us to get involved in trouble sometimes. It is common for a sales representative like you to face such issues, particularly with a popular persona," he was enlightening me naturally. He faked a cough, "Pierre Baker's records were qu
She smiled mischievously. "That's what I thought, "and motioned for me to sit down. "Ciara, thank you for seeing me tonight," and she pushed a button provided on the table. "No one will see you here, don't worry," Satirely, she tittered when she noticed I was still perplexed. "We are safe here," she added."I think my clothes don't fit in here," I twisted my lips and that earned a suppressed laugh from her."It's alright, we are not dancing anyway," she brushed my comment away. I was uncomfortable yet she assured me that whatever wardrobe I had, it was no big deal. Without any more hesitation in my mind, I nodded. Anyways, I trusted her and she knew the place more than I do. One male attendant went inside our room and right away, Meadow ordered a whiskey sour. Honestly, I didn't know what kind of drink it was but by hearing the word whiskey, I thought I got a hint. "You're drinking alcohol without eating anything?" I leaned closer and whispered. When I was asked what I wanted to dri
When I woke up the next morning, I felt a severe headache. When I lifted my gaze to the clock, it was already 8 in the morning. "F***!" I muttered while tapping my forehead. Gladly, it was the weekend, and no work to rush for. I rolled to the side of the bed until I was able to sit properly. I noticed a glass of orange juice on the side table, a pair of toasted bread, and a tablet of aspirin. I smiled at how thoughtful Denver was as my partner in life. As I bit a portion of my bread, I recalled the reason why I felt sick. "Meadow," I mumbled realizing we were drunk at the bar last night.I rushed to look for my phone but couldn't find my bag. Not long, I heard the door push open and Denver appeared all sweaty from his morning activity. "Morning!" he removed his shirt and wiped his body before walking in front of me. He kissed my temple, "How are you feeling?" and asked like he woke up brightly. The smile couldn't be hidden. "Next time, drink moderately, okay?" He knew I wasn't use
I succeeded in inviting Ciara to dinner and had the chance to talk about us. I got to say those things I hid inside my heart for a long time. Although it wasn't as easy as I expected for her to grasp my reasons, I tried my luck to make her understand. Unfortunately, she was resolute about her decision not to get us back together. However, giving us up wasn't included in my options. Not that I could sense she was gradually losing her guard against me. Unlike the first few weeks of seeking her attention, I could tell she was getting more amicable toward me. Traveling from Cancun back to Harrisburg went smoothly. I offered to send her home after the rain poured unexpectedly and at that moment she agreed, I thought it was a good sign for the two of us. Unluckily, after being careless, it only ended to be the worst. She discovered I got someone around to get her followed and that made her infuriated. I did my best to justify my basis yet it only went into nothing. Rationalizing my action w
As soon as I got back to Seattle, I resumed the business launching with Mr. Barnes. In a short period of time, it was a hit. Competitors were astounded by the newest innovation from One Guard Electronic System. Clients and business associates lined up to get our services. In a span of a year, after introducing the design I uniquely created, it gave so much benefit to the company. Mr. Barnes's riches tripled just like that."Mr. Barnes, I'm ready to build my own company in Harrisburg," I discussed my plan with him. I negotiated it before we started the debarkation of the design in Seattle and I told him it was time for me to go back to my State. I was able to help him to reach the top of the industry and I believed, it was enough for him to let me go.With thorough deliberation, we ended up with a discreet decision. As he was hesitant to totally omit me from his company, he suggested building my own in Harrisburg yet we would be still connected with each other. My business would be in
DENVER's POVEverything between us seemed perfect and we were contented around each other until my near graduation. Mr. Parker laid out opportunities for me from different companies and their offerings were tremendously enticing. I was overwhelmed and it was hard to choose from the list. Mr. Parker was the reason why I got so many proposals to pick from because I was really eyed for my potential. As we discussed the best company that could give me the fastest growth, One Guard Electronics Systems caught my attention. As I read their company profile and the main concept of the business, I was triggered to be part of the team. Their structure was what I'm looking for. However, it wasn't as simple as I thought. It would be in Seattle and it was a home program. I would be away for around 2 to 4 years depending on how rapidly we could program the possible security system device project for every household. The company was aiming to create the most innovative program and be number 1 in th
DENVER'S POV When I went to college, it was just a typical apartment and campus daily routine. I was keen to finish my course on top because I believed I'm capable of it. I swore to just focus on my studies and avoid vices that could be a distraction along the way. Among those were partying, smoking, drugs, and women. I had my goals and timeline of everything that I wanted in life. I'm very particular with my plans as well as utilizing my full potential in my chosen field. I only had a few friends while at the University. I couldn't say they were my best friends because I didn't want to get close to anyone around. I was very occupied with my lessons and I used to be alone just to review and ace my exams. Yet sometimes, even if we do things in our own ways and how much we try to stay away from all the diversions we set for ourselves, there will always be something to occur beyond our control. One afternoon, I was sitting under a gigantic tree trying to solve a calculus problem whe
"Baby, relax! Let's get you to the hospital," Denver was trying to calm me down yet he was looking more freaked out knowing I was going to give birth. I held onto him because the pain was increasing and the contraction did not subside. "Mommy, what is going on?" Catie was frightened seeing us panic-stricken. Mindy grabbed her hand and told her to stay away from us because the baby is coming very soon. Denver called Alfie and in haste, the car was in front of our house. Gladly, we were able to collect all the necessary stuff in preparation for my delivery and readied it in the compartment of the vehicle. Truth be told, we organized everything a month before my expected due date. As soon as Denver settled me in the back seat, we left the house in a hurry. Inside the labor room, the nurses were very accommodating. I felt like my energy got drained because of the pain. I was all sweaty while Denver kept on caressing my back. The pity and worry mixed up and it was clearly printed on h
Meadow organized a baby shower party a week before my expected delivery date. She decorated one of our living rooms into a party event space. When I was called by Lea to go downstairs, my lips parted at how beautifully embellished our place was. Unaccountable blue balloons were hanging everywhere and bags of presents were gathered on a table near the improvised platform."This is too much, Meadow," I was still in awe. She pulled me towards the center before she motioned for Iris to start the program. The two of them prepared a few games that we enjoyed so much as well as delicious food to gobble on. Well of course, with the help of Mindy. The cupcakes were so enticing that I got to eat two pieces in a row.Honestly, it was only an intimate party because we only got those we used to have around the house every day. After opening all the gifts they prepared for the baby, Catie presented to sing for me and for her little brother. We all gathered to listen to her and it was a wonderful of
My Dearest Ciara,I know that a million apologies can't suffice for the unfair treatment I have done to you. It was improper to leave you and your Mom. Even if I got the chance to explain everything to you, you wouldn't understand my reasons. I ain't a perfect father to you and far from being one because I'm covered with flaws and faults. I inflicted so much pain in your heart and I can't blame you for the hatred you possessed for me. I'm not expecting your forgiveness but I just want you to know that I feel very sorry for everything I have done. I'm very proud of what you have become. You are strong and you deserve the happiness the almighty is pouring onto you and your family. We don't deserve any help from you but you chose to still deliver kindness in return. Maybe whatever is happening to me and my family is a retribution for all my sins. I was so selfish way back for following my happiness which caused you and your mom to suffer from the pain and hardships moving forward.
"Calm down! It's Brie telling me she bought a luxury bag online," Iris spoke vaguely. My brows crinkled at why she overreacted to Brie buying a bag. She was exaggerated as always. "What's with the bag?" Meadow couldn't get it too. "Guess who was the seller?" Iris asked and we couldn't think of someone. Honestly, we were not fond of buying luxuries online. Not sure about Meadow but as far as I knew she used to visit and see the items firsthand before acquiring them. "It's the bitch, Olga!" she exposed that Olga sold the handbag for a meager price. Meadow and I stared at each other in disbelief. "Are you sure?" Meadow asked her one more time. Even I couldn't believe that Olga went to the extent of selling her valuable possession. It was an attestation that she is running out of money for her bills and everyday expenses. "Karma is real," Iris muttered although we did not wish Olga to suffer such misery. "Alright, enough of her. Let's go get some food, I'm hungry," I complained bec
Felt like my heart was ripping into pieces to see my friend at a total loss sitting outside of the hospital morgue. She was covered in sorrow and in despair. If only she could hand over some of the pain she was dealing with in her heart, I would be glad to carry it just to lessen its heaviness. "Iris, please know that we are here for you." I consoled her cautiously because I knew she only have her mother left when her Dad passed away. And now that the most important human being in her life was gone, the devastation engulfed her entire system. I could absolutely feel the heartache because I experienced being left alone by my parents. Although our situation was different, the throbbing of our hearts did not vary. "Where is Mason?" I asked and she told me he was talking to one of the hospital staff about the arrangement of her Mom's discharge. Mason offered to settle everything because he knew Iris was mentally and emotionally wrecked. "Condolences, Iris," Denver offered his sympathy