Miguel's POV: "You're too slow, brother-in-law! Why don't you find a way to soften my sister's heart again?" Ken yelled at me. Her father, Meriam, and Ken were all supporting me to win her back again. I know Aira has given me many chances, but this time, I am determined. "I can't rush your sister. I've caused her too much trauma, and time won't just heal that," I replied to Ken. "I think Ate still loves you; she's just going through a tough time right now," Ken said, patting my shoulder. Ken left me pondering at my desk. Sir James gave me a position in a department, albeit lower-ranked, but I'm keeping up. I enjoy my job and find happiness every day when I see Aira. It's like I'm back in my childhood, having a crush that I'm unsure will reciprocate. I watch her from afar, teasing her to get her attention. I'm glad when she gets annoyed because for a moment, I'm the only thing on her mind. I hope for the day when we can all be happy together. "Is the work done?" Sir James snapped
"I still can't believe what I found out. Dyson picked me up yesterday from the company because he said he needed to tell me something. I was surprised, but since he was already in the parking lot when he texted, I didn't question it. "Weird, right? Do you believe that Sister May and Dyson are having an affair? Are they really getting married?" Raven asked me incredulously. "I thought Dyson liked me!" I joked. "Well, even I'm starting to wonder. Considering all the things Dyson has done for you since then. Remember when he used to stretch you out before?" Raven agreed. "Ateeeee!" Ken shouted from outside my room. I didn't open the door, so Raven threw a pillow at him. "Ateeeee! I thought Dyson liked you!" Ken said. "Haha, you're just assuming!" Raven replied. "The abandoned has spoken!" Ken teased Raven. "Sort out your love life. You weren't there. Raven teased Ken. "You know, sis, I'm under pressure. Brother Jan's having a child this year, and Sister May's getting married thi
"Who do you think is sending you flowers and food?" Raven asked me. I just shrugged, genuinely unaware of who it could be. I had no interest in finding out either way. I don't eat what he sends but also don't waste it. "You know, from now on, you should forget about the past. You deserve to be happy. Life is passing you by!" Raven advised. I snorted dismissively. I wasn't keen on making new acquaintances or finding a new romantic interest. "You really have nothing! I wonder if you're numb or just heartless," Raven commented further. We're in the office now, working, even though it's pretty boring because everything is running smoothly. Our employees handle their jobs well. "Bored?" Raven asked. "I'm fine," I replied simply. "Miracle!" he commented sarcastically. "I'm just tired. It feels like my body is searching for something else," I said sadly. "That's love life! Keep yourself entertained," Raven said. "Who should I entertain?" I asked. "Miguel?" Raven suggested. I shoo
"What did you say?" Raven asked. "Nothing. He just hugged me, and I let him. Then he asked me to 'date' him," I replied. "So, does that mean you're letting him court you?" Raven asked. "No, I didn't say anything," I defended. "But you didn't answer. Silence means yes!" Raven insisted mischievously. "Not always. My silence doesn't signify anything. I'm neither confirming nor denying anything. What he understands is up to him," I explained firmly. "You let him think that. So if he thinks it's a yes, that means he's flirting," Raven teased. "I don't care what he thinks! I'll find my happiness my own way, not relying on a man," I told him, picking up my phone. I dialed Dyson's number. "Any updates on what I've been looking into?" I asked when he answered. "He's out of the country. Let's wait for him to return, then we can schedule a meeting. You can't just barge in; he has a family to consider, including children," Dyson explained over the phone. I nodded, though I felt jealous a
Maple leaves are often seen as symbols of love and loyalty. That phrase kept coming to my mind as I held the necklace that Miguel had given me. "Hoooo!" Raven startled me. "What?" I pretended to be annoyed by the surprise. "You've been lost in thought for three days now, fiddling with that necklace. What's the story behind it? I only noticed you wearing it today," he asked. I didn't respond, just snorted. "Oh my gosh! Let me guess," Raven said, touching his chin. "It's from Miguel?" He said enthusiastically, raising his index finger. "Is it that obvious?" I asked, furrowing my brow. "So it is from Miguel?!" He exclaimed, moving closer to me. "Oh wow! A maple leaf pendant! How lovely!" He continued to exclaim excitedly. I frowned at him. "Did you know that maple leaves symbolize love and loyalty?" He added, clearly happy and excited for us. "So, did Miguel declare his love to you? Did you accept?" He asked, then pulled up a chair to sit closer to me, eager to gossip. "Nope.
Today is the day they're leaving, Mommy. Daddy doesn't need surgery yet, so Mommy wants to enjoy the day while Daddy is still strong. Their relationship hasn't been easy, and I know that better than anyone. "Are you jealous? Don't waste your time!" Raven nudged me. I can see Mommy and Daddy are excited as they enter the airport. "Tsk!" I clicked my tongue and was the first to leave. Miguel and Raven followed me as we escorted them. "What's your plan?" Raven whispered to me. I furrowed my brow because I wasn't sure what he meant. I sat in the passenger seat while Raven sat in the back. I'm not sure if my siblings followed suit or not. All I know is that Baby and Sister Shane are at home. "Let's go!" Raven teased, patting my shoulder. I glanced at Miguel, who was also awaiting my answer. "Sure!" I replied, smiling. Miguel immediately turned the car towards the bar. We arrived at the bar, though a bit early. Our group was promptly served drinks and snacks. "Are you okay with u
There was darkness around him when he woke up, with a view from his window of the surroundings appearing damp. It might rain overnight. Aira, feeling lazy due to the weather, got up just to freshen up. While brushing his teeth, he saw his own reflection in the mirror and noticed his puffy eyes—a consequence of not sleeping well the previous night. Despite returning home late, sleep had eluded her. She pondered how she truly felt about Miguel. She acknowledged all of Miguel's efforts—his changed demeanor, thoughtfulness, and dedication. She sensed that he genuinely loved her. However, she couldn't find love for him in her heart. She couldn't figure out if it was due to past trauma or if she simply didn't feel anything more. "Ugh, Aira! If you don't like someone, just stop it. Leading him on when you have no intention of committing isn't fair," she scolded herself while poking at her reflection in the mirror. After finishing up in the bathroom, he walked out. "I didn't tell him ther
"Who told you to interfere?" I crossed my arms to show my displeasure clearly. "He's shaping you, and you expect me to stay quiet?" His unhappy expression was evident. "What if he's influencing me now? What about you?" I gestured towards him. "Now what?" he asked with a smirk after kissing me. "Aira?" I turned to the person who spoke, feeling embarrassed. "Uh, have you been here long?" I nervously asked Nate. Seeing Miguel kiss me, Nate smiled and spoke up. "I'll leave you two to finish your date another time. Looks like you have something to sort out!" He grinned at me, then turned to Miguel. Miguel seemed taken aback. I smiled at Nate as he left completely. I turned my gaze to the smiling man. "I don't know why you'd kiss me here. There are too many people around. Are you out of your mind?" "Do you see them? They don't care about us. Am I going crazy?" He teased, moving closer to me. He was so close he nearly kissed me again. "Yes, I'm crazy—crazy about you." He kissed me a
**Miguel’s Point of View**I don't know if I should be happy that Aira agreed to marry me, even though we won't be getting married this year. Her parents want a grand wedding since it’s also a celebration of the merging of two major companies, the Villanueva Group of Companies and Santiago Enterprises. What can I do if that’s what they want? They also don’t want any negative comments about our wedding because of Abby’s post about our supposed wedding. That would get more attention than our actual wedding.“Don’t be sad! We’ll still get married, not now but I’m sure I’ll marry you and no one else,” Aira cheered me up.I smiled at her. “Just promise me you'll marry me and no one else, okay?” I reassured her.She raised her hand with the ring. “This is not just a simple ring. This is a promise ring. This symbolizes our promised wedding.” She kissed me, probably to stop me from worrying.Aira and I are currently at a resort in Palawan. We have the island to ourselves, so we have plenty of
**Miguel's Point of View**Aira and I were lying on my bed. She was resting her head on my arm as I gently stroked her hair. I never imagined I would feel this way again. I never thought we would reach this point in our lives again, where we could be together without worrying about other problems.Some people might say our relationship is too typical. Coming from feuding families, both products of broken homes, and both children born out of wedlock, but none of that became a hindrance. Instead, it allowed us to understand each other better."How many children do you want?" Aira asked me while looking at me.I smiled at her and thought for a moment. "I want more than four, I think. I want them to have many siblings so they won't feel lonely and will have playmates. I want them to be each other's best friends," I answered happily.She frowned, making me raise an eyebrow. "I already told you that I don't want to have many children. Besides not being sure if my womb can handle it, I don't
**Miguel's Point of View**I was happy to go home after bringing Abby to a facility. I took her child to her mom. I didn't tell Aira what was happening because I wanted to surprise her.Auntie was shocked when I arrived with Abby's child. They thought I had taken the child without permission, so they immediately went to check on her. Auntie was very thankful because, finally, her daughter came to her senses. She chose to get better and free herself and others.Even though it was a bit difficult, I was always thankful that it was finally over. Now, all I need to focus on is my dad's company. I don't know what's going on within his family. The only thing Cheska told me was the frequent fighting between Daddy and his wife, and even she doesn't know the reason.Dad prepared everything before he surrendered to the police. He also arranged to transfer his shares to my name. Cheska was also left with some shares. Dad's buildings, farms, and small businesses were divided among us. Dad left ma
**Miguel Ice's Point of View**"Finish that later, eat first," Abby said as she entered my office at her house.I didn't want to, but for my mother's peace of mind, I did what she wanted. Mama has a soft heart, especially for children who beg."I'm not hungry." Since I started living here, I couldn't even look at her. She could touch me, but I wanted to push her away, yet I couldn't because of pity.She's fine at home, attentive, and caring for her child. I used to enjoy playing with her child, who she introduced to me as "Tito-Daddy." Playing with the child made me happy, but when I married her because of her threats, their affection for me disappeared. Let's just say the child shouldn't be involved, but he's a significant reason why Mama pleaded with me."How long will you be like this? I'm your wife, but you treat me like a mere pawn!" She started arguing again.She's often like this, but I ignored her. I let her say whatever she wanted."You won't talk to me again, and then what?
**Aira Jane’s Point of View**After what happened between Miguel and me, we haven't seen each other again. I left that night while he was asleep and didn't say goodbye to Mama."What if your half-sister finds out? It'll just cause more trouble, Aira!" Raven told me. I had a headache when I arrived at work; it's tough pretending everything is okay."How would she know if no one tells her? Miguel probably won't say anything either," I replied, resting my head on the table."Oh, come on! You never learn! If you're not going to fight for Miguel, then stop giving in to your feelings. Honestly, you're being unfair.""Why me? Why am I the one being unfair? Isn't it him?" I asked her, surprised."Tsk." Raven rolled her eyes, leaving me confused about what she meant."Imagine, you just accept their explanations without expressing how you feel inside! Do you think that's right? Do you think that's not unfair to Miguel? He's fighting and doing what he can to solve the problems. While you, you ju
**Aira Jane’s Point of View**I didn't go back to the mansion. They wouldn't look for me anyway. I'll sleep here at Mama's house. She doesn't have anyone with her, and besides, we were both tired from shopping and wandering around the mall. It was already 11 PM when we got home."Sigh, this is my third day in this room, the second time I'll sleep here," I whispered to myself as I flopped onto the soft bed."Aira, dear?" Mama knocked on the door of the room. I got up, but Mama had already entered the room. "I just want to know if you're going to eat. If you are, I'll cook something for you. What do you want? Miguel is coming home, and I cooked some soup since he called drunk." I quickly sat up."Ma, can I go home?" I asked Mama."Why? Are you avoiding Miguel?" Mama's question left me speechless. I didn't know, but I couldn't be with Miguel when someone else was watching. I felt like Miguel and I were using them to deceive Abby, which I didn't want. I didn't want to use others just to b
Aira Jane’s Point of View“What time is it?” I heard Miguel ask.“It’s afternoon, almost five. How did you sleep? Are you hungry?” I asked with concern.I dozed off while watching him, but the heat made it hard to sleep again. Miguel, on the other hand, was deeply asleep; he looked exhausted. “I’m sorry if I disturbed you,” he said, asking for my forgiveness.“It’s nothing, just make sure this doesn’t happen again.” I stood up from the tent, but he stopped me. “Sit down first; let’s talk.” I looked at him and started to sit back down.“Can you go home and stay with Mom?” He surprised me with that question.“Why? Did something happen to Mom?” I asked worriedly.“Nothing happened; I’m just worried she’s alone there. I’m always at work, and when I come home, it’s usually to Abby's house. You know her, right? She always exhausts herself.”“Sounds like you.” I whispered, raising an eyebrow at him. “Alright, I’ll try to bring her to the condo. I’ll do my best.” I replied simply.“Thank you
**Aira Jane’s Point of View**“It looks like you’re in a good mood today. Have you and Miguel reconciled?” Meriam asked me with enthusiasm.I continued walking towards the dining area, ignoring her because I didn’t want any commotion to disturb my beautiful morning. I woke up feeling light, as if all my worries had vanished. I wasn’t sure if it was because I realized Miguel truly loves me and I’m still his safe haven, or if it was because I had spent almost the entire night with him.“Did you know you’re trending again? Ever since you started dating Miguel, you’ve never left social media. You’re always the topic of conversation.” She followed me while saying all this. I turned to her and replied, “You know, Meriam, after all this time we’ve been living, aren’t you used to being talked about by others? Their opinions don’t matter to me, unlike yours.” I said it sharply without even looking at her.“Really? What if the topic now is your boyfriend marrying his fling? Doesn’t that matter
**Aira’s Point of View**Three weeks later,"What did you say?" I asked Ken again. He had shared some news that I could hardly believe."Yes. My brother-in-law left the company to help his sister Cheska run their own business because their father surrendered to the police. I don't know the other reasons, but one thing is certain: my brother-in-law has left us," Ken said sadly."I can't do anything about that. If he wants to go, then let him be. It might even be good for him; he knows a lot about our company that he could use for theirs or to undermine us.""That's not how my brother-in-law is, ate. You know that!" I shrugged and walked out of the mansion.He has no gratitude. After being fully accepted by Dad, he just leaves for the person who caused our problems before. I might be trying to forget what happened, but that doesn’t mean I’ve forgiven him. They say you can’t truly forget until you learn to forgive."Here you are again," Raven commented when she saw me in the bar."As far