Louise Rose.I kept pacing back and forth, thinking of the best solution to this.The amount of money is more than enough to repair the house and sustain Aunt Rosy's medication for two years. That's not bad. Where could we get a deal like that just for matchmaking? It's not bad at all."I'll do it! Let me do it, Rosy.""Oh no. Not you, Louise. You don't know how to do this. It's not as easy as what you think it is."I lowered myself to level into her face. "Look, Rosy, the money we will get is more than enough to renovate the house.""In the next two years, I don't have to worry about your medicine. That will cover it. I know you can no longer do it because of your situation. But hey, I am here. It's not like I have not seen the process.""I've seen you interact with many clients in your matchmaking business, and I can do it!" I've probably got the widest smile now. I have a strong fighting spirit, and I'm confident I can handle the job.She sighed and looked at me with concern. "Mad
Hendrix.For once, I will stand my ground with my mother's request. I have a plan, and I'm determined to see it through. There's no way I will be engaged again for the fifth time. This time, I will break free from the cycle of arranged marriages.I will no longer do the dating game or an arranged marriage this time. I want to try the natural way of falling in love. I want to do that. I will take Elle's advice.I never expected Rosy's house here in Eden to be one of the poorest in my eyes. I anticipated it would be surrounded by beautiful classical architecture, but I was wrong. It seemed like the famous matchmaker in town was living hard.The willow tree on the side is majestic. It brings a radiance of life to the place. The house was like an old painting that pulled my heart with beautiful memories.Even though the color fades and some grass grows on the roof's gutter, the house still has a character. It's just that it requires a magic touch to bring out the best of it."You are Ros
Louise Rose.Oh God, I can't believe I messed up.Have I lost my touch when dealing with clients abroad? Surely not. It's just that Hendrix was way beyond. He's out of my league. He is strong and attractive, and his irresistible charm sets me apart. It felt like I had been struck by lightning when he stood in front of me. I was blown by the wind and out of my mind.Now I have to prove to him that I am Rosy. He must believe in me!"All I have are the records from six months ago, my dear. You can review them and reach out to each family to see if they're still interested. And if not, just cross them out of the list," Aunt Rosy yawned.Despite the late hour, I couldn't ignore my responsibility. I had to resolve this before morning, or the weight of my mistakes would drive me to madness."I told you that it wouldn't be easy, Louise. Madame Violet's son is very picky. With so many broken engagements, it must be hard to find a match for him." She yawned again and rubbed her eyes.My should
Hendrix."You think she's pretending? And why is that?" Xavion's brow wrinkled. He tasted the coffee I made. He stood up and opened the sugar container.I smirked a tiny bit as I forgot to put sugar in his coffee. I've been thinking about Rosy, as she was doing my head in.Last night, I was about to call my mother to ask about Rosy, the matchmaker. I want to make sure if she's an old lady or a young one."What does she look like? Most matchmakers are older.""Exactly." I nodded a little. "Rosy doesn't look like one of them. She's young, good-looking, seems affectionate, and. ." I paused, not realizing the words that had escaped my lips. I shook my head to clear my mind, and Xavion chuckled."It's the first time I've heard that from you, Hendrix," he said with a mischievous smile. "So, she's good-looking, affectionate, and?" His brow slightly rose as he waited for me to finish my sentence."Damn it, I don't know what I'm saying," I looked away, pacing in the other direction."So, wha
Louise Rose.I was lucky. I was right in time.I had already planned my morning, but a call from Aunt Rosy's clinic made me panic. She had a fall. Luckily, it wasn't bad. I ran to check on her first before coming here. I don't want to have a conversation with Hendrix, and my mind is out of nowhere thinking of Rosy. This matchmaking is crucial to me, and I don't want to commit any mistakes.I cleared my throat, smiled, and glanced at him silently while sipping my water, having finished half of it.His brows waggle as he quickly turns over the pages from next to another. He was serious as hell, and it started to scare the living daylight of me.Don't tell me there's none of it on the list. None of them caught his interest. Oh, God! I did not do the research. It would have taken me ages to do it myself! I was only using the list that was still active from Rosy's last service. They're all good. Those ladies are still young, and some are much younger than me.Finally, after a minute, he
Saxe Hendrix. "Of course, I will pay more than you need. The deposit that my mother made, you can keep that. That's not coming from me." I am determined to make a decision based on personal interaction. It wasn't part of my plan to do this, but I had no choice. I don't want to disappoint my mother. I want to show her that I tried at least to know these girls before saying no to each one of them."Okay. But do you really need to meet the ten of them?" She blinked as if she couldn't believe it."Yes, I do. I am determined to meet all ten of them," I replied firmly, meeting her gaze.She blinked again."I mean, I can suggest the three best ones on my list. In that way, you don't have to spend so much time considering you are busy," she swallowed hard.I slightly smirked. "I don't want to decide based on what I read, Miss Rosy," I tightened my jaw, looking at her intently. "I want to see them in person. Pictures can be deceptive, Rosy. Technology can edit your face. I can't trust that.
Saxe Hendrix.I reviewed all the details about each of the women that Rosy emailed me about. There were ten of them, and all of them were from elite families.My mother was right. Rosy can provide the best candidates around if you are looking for a wife. But none of them matter to me. I'm resolute in my search for someone who shares the same dream as I do, someone who values love and companionship over societal status.I was already dreading the upcoming meetings. Rosy had organized specific plans for each date, leaving me with nothing to do but follow her lead. I guess I'll be okay with that. I will just go with the flow. I'm uninterested anyway.The first one is Vivian, the daughter of one of the great merchants from Gildsburgh. The second one is Cristelle, the daughter of the Williams empire. The third is Jenny, the daughter of BillandCo, and so on and so forth. Most of them have their names, and none of the candidates are below the average line. None of them are on the average, a
Louie Rose.I've meticulously arranged everything for Hendrix, scheduling his dates with each girl in a precise order. This comprehensive plan will unfold over a month, allowing Hendrix to balance his busy work schedule. He will only meet the girls on the days he's free.The first date is with Vivian, a supermodel and the daughter of a renowned merchant. Her fame precedes her, and her image is a constant presence in the fashion world. Today, Hendrix will have the chance to meet her at the prestigious golf course. That's their date.I walk, almost running, just to beat the time. I'm not yet late, but I have to be here first before the two of them arrive."Miss Louise!" Cynthia called me. She raised her hand with a piece of paper she was holding."Cynthia, thank goodness!" I said, almost running out of breath. I thought I couldn't make it in time. There was no traffic, but the car's tire got flat for a reason. Thank you so much. You are my savior!" I hugged her quickly and hurriedly ti
Louise Rose.Looking at Rosy and Hendrix made me smile. I can't help it. Rosy was laughing hard at Hendrix's not-so-funny jokes.Is the old lady enjoying this, or is she just swooning over how handsome Hendrix is? Not to mention, his jokes are not funny to me.I rested my chin on the back of my hand while chewing my drink.The only downside of this drink-and-food combo is the bubbles themselves. I'm not a fan of tacos. I don't like the chewy bubbles in them and prefer the rice version instead. However, that's okay. I know that Hendrix bought this for Rosy and not for me."What do you think, Rosy? Do you think you can join us?" Hendrix glances at me and back at Rosy.My forehead creased. What is he up to now? I had no idea what they were talking about earlier, as I did not listen to them. I was scrolling through my phone, checking my social media. There was nothing on my news feed except for Hendrix and his rumored secret girlfriend.I read the first paragraph but did not continue rea
Hendrix.I combed my hair using my fingers in exasperation. It's been a week since Louise last spoke to me. She keeps ignoring me as if I don't exist. I can't get too close to her because she doesn't want me around."I acknowledge it's my fault, and I'm doing everything for her to understand the situation, Xav. It's driving me crazy. I can't concentrate and haven't slept at all. I want to talk to her, but she has blocked me."Xavion chuckled a little."This isn’t funny, Xavion," I said through clenched teeth."Give her time, Hendrix. She will calm down and entertain you again. Right now, her focus is on Rosy. Let her be. Consider the pain she's experiencing now. She's also afraid of losing Rosy."I sighed, trying to grasp the air around me.Rosy is not feeling well.After chemotherapy, she developed complications and is currently in the ICU for heart monitoring. I visited her earlier to ensure she was being looked after by the nurses and specialists.I nodded, trying to tease the ten
Louise Rose.I'm so furious right now. I feel so betrayed. Of all the people, why Hendrix? Why. . .I went back to Rosy and attended to all her needs. I never asked her anything about her condition. I had enough of what Dr. Lou said earlier. I just need to give myself some time to settle down so that I can think again."Louise, my dear, please don't be upset with me or Dr. Lou. It's not his fault. He was simply following my instructions... I want this because I don't want you to fret too much… I apologize for keeping this from you." Rosy's voice was faint and tired. I could only embrace her. My heart shatters as I feel lost about what to do next. It's nighttime already. I helped Rosy shower and eat dinner, and now I am tucking her for bedtime. I turned off my phone after I talked to Dr. Lou. I don't want to talk to anyone, especially to Hendrix. I'm not in the mood for any conversation about Rosy's health.I could only smile softly as I stroked her cheek. I know she's tired. Today
Louise Rose.Although I shouldn't visit her today, I plan to surprise Rosy since my calendar is free. I feel truly blessed in many ways despite the conflicts within Hendrix's family.Hendrix's mother hates me, and Stephanie is making all the moves she can to hold Hendrix by the neck.My partner is facing financial losses, and I feel accountable for it. I want to assist him, but I'm unsure of how to proceed. I believe the most significant support I can offer is simply being there for him, regardless of the circumstances.I love him, honestly. Our start wasn't perfect, as it was pretentious, but look at where we are now. It's been the past six months, and we are running seven and still firmly in love with each other.I felt nervous as I entered the care clinic. Nadia, the head nurse, looked surprised when she saw me."I did not expect a visit from you today." Her brows wiggled, and I laughed. "Does your Aunt Rosy know you are coming?""No. She did not. I want to surprise her. I have so
Louise Rose.I cautiously glance to the side while listening to Hendrix speak on the phone with Stephanie.After dinner, we settled back at his place, giving me enough time to relax. I'm all relaxed, alright. I had my shower thirty minutes ago and checked on Rosy at the care clinic. Everything is going well with her, and I'm glad she's okay. I was a little worried when I saw her this morning. She doesn't seem well."I told you I'm not negotiating anything from you anymore, Steph." Hendrix's voice rose in octavo."Dammit! This is why we can't talk in person. This is why I can't see you!' He ran his hand through his hair in frustration and lifted his head."Fucking hell! Don't you dare tell me what to do, Steph! It's not about myself anymore, and not about Louise. Stay her out of this!"My body jerked when I heard the surprising kick he made on the chair inside the room. I fiddle my fingernails on my lips while listening, and my heart is pumping hard inside me.Hendrix is furious. Step
Louise Rose.I stopped by the flower stall near Hendrix’s office building, and rather than waiting for him, I opted to head to his office instead.The interior of the building is impressive. It features a unique atmosphere, and the entrance boasts a tall ceiling adorned with a large, sparkling chandelier.There was no reception. Instead, there was information displayed on the large screen indicating which floor to visit. On the opposite side of the hallway leading to the lifts, you’ll find a small café alongside a flower stall.I smiled upon seeing it, and the two ladies attending smiled back. They were taking orders from two customers waiting nearby.Hendrix is clever, and I’m very proud of my man.Last night, we didn’t talk about Stephanie and the newly released articles. I felt jealous, but I knew how to manage my jealousy. I trust him and will wait for his explanation.The elevator arrives at the top floor, the fifty-ninth. I exit and am greeted by the company’s prominent logo ad
Hendrix."It's good to see you again, Rosy." I gave her a tight hug and kissed her forehead.She gazed at me faintly, smiling. Her hands felt cold, and she was growing thinner each day. I felt anxious. To me, she didn't seem well, yet I recognized her strong fight for Louise.Last night was calm with Louise. We had a good time together. We never talked about the issues and just set them aside. We kissed, cuddled, and made love. It was solemn and peaceful. Although it does not solve the problem, I think it's probably better that way.I have too much on my plate at the moment, and I'm sorting out my business with Stephanie. I'm doing things one at a time, and I know Louise understands that."Hendrix…" Rosy weakly uttered my name, and I sat down beside her."How are you feeling, Rosy?" My jaw tightened. I knew she was not feeling well. I had a quick chat with Dr. Lou before I proceeded to her unit.The treatment was still ongoing. We are on our second radiation session now, and there ar
Louise Rose.I sat down, and Dr. Lou looked very serious. I haven't seen Rosy—not yet. The food and treats are still inside the paper bags with me.“Look, Louise. I know it’s been some time, and if you’ve noticed, Rosy’s condition is worsening each day.” He paused and glanced at me with a worried expression."Yes, I noticed that. I've been meaning to talk to you, but I've been held up with many things, including my business. Every time I visit, you're either not here or busy with your patients.""Yes, I'm sorry about that. But this time, I could no longer ignore the symptoms, and—"He paused again when my phone suddenly rang. I hadn't muted it."Oh, sorry." I pulled it out of my side pocket and swiped the screen. It was Rosy."Uhm, it's just Rosy. Just hang on for a second, Dr. Lou." I stood up and whirled halfway."Yes, Rosy. I'm already here at the clinic. I'm talking to Dr. Lou. It won't be long, and I will be there. I'll see you in a minute," I said, ending the call.Dr. Lou clear
Louise Rose."What the heck? You attended the event the other day with Hendrix, right?" Shella's eyes were like fire when I looked at her."Why? What's wrong?" I still had my hands on the flowers I had arranged in the vase.After the event and spending the night at Hendrix's place, I visited Rosy the next day. She seemed unwell and uncomfortable, which worried me. So, I decided to stay with her until nighttime to help with her needs. She's got a personal maid, but me being there with her is a different story. I just want to be with her. I don't want to think about that sly Stephanie.I have a few messages and miscalls from Hendrix. I will get back to him later. "Look at this. Have you read this?" She showed me the newspaper. The front page featured a picture of Hendrix's company and the events mentioned. On the next page was a collage of pictures with his cousins, parents, and Stephanie."Where are you? Why aren't you here? They didn’t even mention you at all, as if you didn’t exist