Miguel's Perspective: Continuation of Chapter 53 Arriving in the province, I faced the challenge of finding Mom's farm in the vast rural landscape. The houses were scattered far apart, making it difficult to inquire. "Where can I find this farm?" I asked a local I encountered. "Why do you need to find it? Planning to buy vegetables from them? They had a big harvest today. They supply a health restaurant in Manila with fresh produce. It helps the community and supports his mom," the local replied cheerfully. "I just need to speak with him first," I replied politely. "He's up there. Let my grandson take you. It's a bit of a trek up the mountain and off the beaten path. Better to ride a motorcycle so you don't exhaust yourself," the elderly man suggested. I thanked him and hopped on his grandson's motorcycle. The rough terrain made the journey uncomfortable, my fatigue compounded by hunger and thirst—I hadn't eaten or drunk during the journey due to sleeping on the bus. "Uncle! A
Aira's Perspective: Dyson informed me that someone was secretly searching for Mom, which he suspects might involve Miguel's father. After finishing our tasks, Dyson and I hurried to where Mom was staying, concerned that her safety might be compromised if someone dangerous was looking for her. "Mom, we're here. Where are you?" I called out to Mommy Mitch. I'd been trying to reach her for a while, but there was no answer. "I'm at the farm, dear. It's quite busy with orders for vegetables and fruits. What brings you here all of a sudden?" she replied. "It's fine. We just wanted to stay here for two weeks or a month. It's too hot in Manila." "Alright then. Take care on your way up!" Mom instructed. We felt a bit relieved knowing she was safe. After a short while, we reached Mom's hut. The structure she built was beautiful, holding the best memories. "Mom! We're here!" I called out loudly. But Mom wasn't in the hut, so we assumed she must be in the garden. We noticed several tru
Miguel's Perspective: "You don't need to be upset. I understand your outburst was just a moment of emotion, but it wasn't right to exchange hurtful words with them." We're still here on the mountain, at my mother's farm. Inside, Mama and Aira were cooking and talking. I didn't mean everything I said. When I first saw them, I knew I just wanted to hug them both. Driven by hunger, fear, and lingering resentment, I let slip an inappropriate word. "When you lost your son, Aira couldn't handle it all. She almost gave up out of grief. If it wasn't for Mom by our side, she might have given up long ago. Mom gave her comfort and made her feel like a mother. They didn't forget you; they did what they thought would keep you safe. Both of them just wanted safety for the ones they love. "Perhaps fate has ordained that they reunite. Maybe this is the answer to all your prayers. Aira will find her peace, and she'll take care of your mother. Aira may not love you, but she loves your son. No, she'
Aira's Perspective: Miguel and I were in the same place, but we kept our distance from each other. Earlier, while Mom and I were preparing food, we discussed Miguel. Even though he's here, Mom is determined to send Miguel back to where he truly belongs. I also asked if Miguel knew about Mom's illness. The shock on Mom's face confirmed that he did, though she didn't deny it. I didn't feel sorry for him, but I empathized because he had to suppress his emotions in our current situation. "Can we talk?" Miguel asked as he approached me. I nodded, and he motioned for us to find a quiet spot. I noticed Dyson's watchful gaze and signaled for him to stay back. I smiled reassuringly, and he remained where he was. "I'm sorry," he began. "About what?" I asked, puzzled. Miguel scratched his head nervously. "Can I hug you?" he asked abruptly. "Huh?" I stuttered, caught off guard by his request. "I said, can I hug you?" he repeated loudly. Before I could respond, he embraced me. I hesitated
Miguel's Point of View "I'm resigning," I declared as I entered Daddy's office. As soon as I arrived in Manila, I headed straight to my father's office. Despite my anger, I knew I had to show him respect—he's still my father. I'm educated, and disrespecting him would not sit well with Mama. When I saw his face, memories of everything he'd done flooded back. My ears burned with rage, but I restrained myself. I couldn't afford to lose control. "Where have you been?" he asked, oblivious to my intentions. I didn't respond, simply turned my back. Whether he accepts my resignation letter doesn't matter now. I've made my decision to leave and not look back. He hurled insults as I approached the door I was about to open. I remained silent. "Where's your mother?" he demanded. I shot him a questioning look. "I know you already know where she is. There's no need for explanations; you already know the truth," he asserted. He rose from his seat and advanced towards me, grabbing my collar
"What's up?" I asked the person I had tasked with looking after Mom. Truthfully, Mom doesn't want to leave. I want her to enjoy her life without any burdens from me or anyone else. The fact is, they themselves don't want to leave the farm; it's where they want to live. "They've all left the farm," the person informed me. I wondered where they were planning to go. "Just follow them," I instructed before hanging up. Now I'm back at the house I built. It's simple, meant for Mom and me, without my name on it, knowing Dad might come after it. If he's smart, I'm smarter. "Cedric, where have you been?" I texted. Cedric Aquino was my only college friend. Cedric is kind and unconcerned with social status. If he wants to be friends, he just is. Unlike others who shunned me for lack of wealth. We hadn't talked much since graduation because his mom didn't approve of me. Cedric never said it, but I found out at graduation. I still remember what his mom said. "Why befriend them? They have
Aira's Point of View I woke up early, likely due to the new environment we're sleeping in. Now I'm at the condo, and after nearly a month of living on the farm, my body has adjusted. We've become accustomed to the natural cold from the surrounding mountains. I got up immediately and opened the windows. From here, I can see the buildings and cars on the road. Since we noticed suspicious men around the farm, we've been extra cautious. Sometimes Ken and Raven come down the mountain for our necessities and business needs. Ken also has to regularly report to the office since Dad assigned him a position there. Meanwhile, Raven manages our business and brings papers that need my signature. Dyson and I once spoke. The four of us remain vigilant, especially with Mom around. We're extra careful because we don't want to lose another loved one. My son's sacrifice is justifiable. Since Miguel left, no one has contacted him, not even his mother, whom he couldn't reach. I asked Dyson for upd
Aira's Point of View "Miguel!" I heard someone enter the VIP room while I was retrieving something from under the table. Startled, I accidentally knocked over a glass on the table. "Ma'am, he said he didn't request a VIP room. He also said he wouldn't come if he didn't know the person coming," explained the waiter I had ordered earlier. I rolled my eyes; Miguel used to allow anyone into the VIP room, even strangers. "Tell me the bar owner is calling him?!?" I snapped angrily at the waiter. He hurried away to check. From my spot, I could observe them. I watched Miguel converse with whoever it was. He seemed genuinely grateful to be in their company. Bored, I slumped back onto the sofa. After a while, the door opened again. I hoped it was Miguel, but it wasn't. "Ma'am, his girlfriend didn't want to let him in," the waiter informed me. "He's letting his girlfriend dictate whether he can be here? If they want to be together, she can join us. I just need to talk to Miguel!" I excl