I had no choice but to comply with Ivan's desire for us to go back to the hotel. While we were on the way, I felt a sense of unease in my chest. To be honest, I wasn't scared; in fact, I was genuinely excited.My mind was filled with various explicit thoughts. Would it be painful like the first time? Would he find pleasure in being with me? I hoped he would. I aspired to meet his needs and desires, making sure there was no temptation for him to seek comfort elsewhere.Ivan nipped at my shoulder, eliciting a playful squirm from me."Ivan!" I scolded him, but he responded with a warm embrace."I'm just overcome with excitement," he whispered with a mischievous grin, gently nibbling and lightly tracing my ear with his tongue."When was the last time that we-""When you were drunk, and the following morning, your parents arranged for us to marry.""No more... intimate moments?""You hold such deep disdain for me, Ivan. You can't even meet my gaze, let alone entertain thoughts beyond that.
"My meeting with your dad was scheduled for this afternoon, so we decided to have a get-together now," my mother-in-law said.We're currently in their suite. It was only half an hour past five in the morning when they called to inform us we should all have breakfast together.If it weren't for my in-laws, I would have preferred to sleep all day and wake up in the afternoon.It wasn't until around three in the morning that I finally succumbed to a peaceful slumber. Ivan had been incredibly persistent and unrelenting, his desire insatiable.Despite mentioning that his body ached, we indulged in passionate encounters. He looks so happy and full of energy now, while I find myself utterly drained with burning eyes.My mother-in-law wore a warm smile as she gazed at our hands resting on the table, with Ivan holding mine."What a delightful beginning to the day for your dad and me," Mom exclaimed with a twinkle in her eyes.A soft, involuntary chuckle escaped me as I discreetly cast my gaze
"Are you certain you're prepared to return to work?" inquired my father-in-law to Ivan.During our breakfast, we recounted an early morning when we strolled through the village's nearby park."Yes, Dad. I'm confident that I'm ready to get back to work. I'm fine, thanks to my wife excelled in looking after me," Ivan replied.His family observed us with curious gazes. I exchanged a smile with Ivan, and he spontaneously gave me a kiss, causing my cheeks to flush with warmth. Overwhelmed with embarrassment, I couldn't bring myself to meet the gaze of his parents and siblings."We're delighted that you've chosen to reconcile with Myla instead of-"Ivan's sister was unable to complete her sentence as their father cleared his throat. He offered a smile and changed the subject."We're delighted for both of you. Are you planning to have a baby?"My period arrived today, so pregnancy isn't a possibility at the moment. Additionally, I intend to visit the OB-GYN later to obtain contraceptives to
Having known Maureen, it appears she intentionally did this. She knew I would notice, so she did it to make me anxious. I made my way to the bedroom while my father-in-law and husband carried on their conversation in the study room.I tried to calm my thoughts. Someday, Maureen, you'll have your turn.In the quiet early hours of the morning, Ivan quietly stepped into the room. The gentle hum of water in the bathroom indicated that he was taking a soothing shower. However, I quickly drifted back to sleep, even though I felt him lying beside me on the bed and embracing me, all fresh from the shower.I shifted towards him and returned the embrace."Go to sleep," I whispered.His hand gently slid inside my shirt. "Are you going to ignore me?"I forced one of my eyes to open. "I'm on my period."He reasoned, "That's alright. We can go to the bathroom, so it won't stain."My eyes widened, and he burst into laughter."That's gross! Just wait for a few days. It'll pass soon. If you can't wait
In the past, I would frequently indulge in social parties, particularly during my college days. However, after marrying Ivan, I refrained from joining my friends on their outings, regardless of their persistent invitations. I aimed to avoid becoming a topic of gossip, and I also wanted to make sure that Ivan didn't perceive me as someone who was still living a carefree single life, even though I was aware that Ivan remained unconcerned.Before six o'clock, we headed to the basement parking lot. Our journey to their designated meeting place, a bar and restaurant in Makati, was a half-hour drive. This is where Ivan's friends were planning to gather.Although I was familiar with his friends, I could count on one hand the number of times I had engaged in conversations or interactions with them in the past. When they visited our home after I had married Ivan, he didn't usually introduce me to them. However, I ended up serving them because we didn't have any house helpers.My mind was drift
It's as if nothing transpired last night. Ivan awoke with a radiant smile, choosing to skip going to his office and instructing his secretary to deliver the papers he needed for signing instead.Later on, we find ourselves seated in the garden. I'm engrossed in a book while he focuses on his work, opting not to discuss the events of last night.Furthermore, he's making plans for us to take a vacation next weekend. He mentioned that we'd depart on Friday evening and return on Sunday night. He had already informed his parents, and their response was simply encouragement for us to have a baby.Earlier, after breakfast, my mother-in-law approached me discreetly. She had learned about what happened at the bar the previous night, and I confided in her about Maureen's actions, detailing everything from the office to the bar."I'm worried, Mom. How many days from now do you think Ivan's memory will come back?""Don't fret, my dear. You are his wife. Even if his memory returns, I'm confident i
I was uncertain about the time Ivan arrived home, as I had retreated upstairs to my room after a conversation with my mother-in-law, attempting to find solace in sleep. I was determined not to dwell on my worries and shed tears.My husband's warm embrace enveloped me, and he softly murmured something, but my extreme exhaustion left me unable to comprehend his words. The next morning, I awoke before Ivan, showered, and descended to the kitchen to assist with breakfast preparations.My in-laws, Mom and Dad, were already up, sipping their morning coffee and reading the newspaper."We didn't sleep well last night, your mom and I..."I looked at my father-in-law while I was cutting vegetables. I'm the one who makes salad for my sister's breakfast. "Why is that, Dad?""We were concerned about you, dear..."My emotions welled up, biting my lip. If it weren't for this loving couple who had taken me in, I couldn't fathom where I might be today. I am grateful that my parents have a compassionat
I compelled myself to leave the restaurant, despite feeling immensely frail because of the intense trembling of my body. As I stepped into the car, I discreetly wiped away my tears before addressing the driver, who remained silent."Let's go.""To the airport, Ma'am?""Just drive, please..."Stay composed, Myla. Focus. Focus.It took five minutes before I resolved to call my friend, and there was a delay before she picked up the call."Oh, friend..."I discreetly cleared my throat and inhaled deeply.She let out a sigh. Even though I hadn't uttered a word, it was as if she had an uncanny understanding. That's just the way she is, and it reaffirms my belief in her genuine affection, a true friend."I won't reprimand you. If you've made your decision, I'll come to pick you up. I'll send you the other details via text."She hung up the call."Driver, please pull over to the side.""Pardon?" The driver was taken aback and didn't immediately comply with my request."Kindly pull over, pleas
I was lazily sitting in the office when my friends arrived."If you want to know what she's up to, ask her, or better yet, investigate.""I'm not interested.""Don't deny it, Ivan. You can't hide anything from us. We can see that you're starting to care about your wife.""Your cellphone was also turned off. Was it because you're avoiding Maureen?""Well, good job!"***I got home at six in the evening, but Myla hadn't returned yet. Seated on the sofa, I silently surveyed the entire house. The pervasive quietness left me with a sense of solitude. Could this be the reason she doesn't stay here for long? She left early and was still away at this hour.I stood up, intending to go upstairs when the door opened. She was surprised to see me and mustered a forced smile."Good evening." Without asking if I had eaten, she ascended the stairs.Tsk!Feeling hungry, I decided to have dinner somewhere else. The next day, she arrived home even later."What time is it?" I asked irritably. It was alre
"You and your girlfriend always seem to be having disagreements."I glanced at my older sister, who had suddenly appeared behind me. I stood on the balcony, trying to regain composure after yet another argument with Maureen. It's always like this. It feels like just a week ago when we last fought.A sigh escaped me as I redirected my attention to the garden. I lifted the beer bottle in my hand to take a sip, deciding to remain silent. No words came to mind. What my sister said was true. It's always like this. Maureen's immaturity remains consistent; it feels as if she hasn't experienced any personal growth since we entered into a relationship years ago.Whenever we argue, I choose to ignore her because I don't want to say anything hurtful. Besides, the next day, she'll apologize to me.We're already adults, but it feels like she's still in high school, not maturing at all. But despite that, I love her. Everyone has flaws."Think about it while it's early. She's not the marrying type,
The following morning, I awoke alone in bed, unsure whether Heather had spent the night here. The neatly arranged side of my bed hinted that she might have chosen her daddy's villa instead. This is currently a concern for me. She has grown accustomed to constantly being with her father. What if Ivan needs to return to Manila for his job? My child would undoubtedly be saddened. Despite Ivan assuring that he'll stay here, I believe there will be a day when he must return for their company. "Good morning, how are you?" Lucinda inquired, having noticed my tears the previous night as she prepared breakfast. I responded with a subdued smile. "Ivan set up a tent last night. He and Heather slept in it," she informed me. That explains why my daughter didn't come up last night. I approached them at the back, the laughter of my husband and daughter filling the air as Ivan playfully tickled our child. Upon noticing my presence, they promptly got up, and Heather exclaimed, "Mommy!" "Hello, b
Ivan was still around. He had been here for several days, looking after Heather all day while I was at work. He took on the roles of both preparing breakfast and handling our dishwashing duties. "Mommy, your flowers are here!" Heather shouted excitedly from outside the house, eagerly awaiting the helicopter's landing. "Mommy!"I glanced out the window to see my daughter, a big smile lighting up her face. Ivan was by her side, both of them looking up at me. She dashed toward the helicopter as it landed. The bouquet was too large for her to manage. Ivan's assistant handed her a paper bag, likely containing a new toy or clothing item. Ivan carried the flowers and a couple of other paper bags. They were about to enter the house, heading up here to present me with the flowers. "Mommy!" I mustered a smile. "Your flowers have arrived!" For three consecutive days, a helicopter has been dropping off bouquets for me. Ivan was wasting money on this. "The flowers are beautiful, Mommy!" I
I left Ivan, and he made no effort to stop or chase after me. There was nothing he could do to change my decision. Given his past actions, did he truly believe I would entertain his proposal? It felt like I was permitting him to inflict more pain on me. He needed to understand that I was no longer the delicate wife who could empathize with him, even during moments of distress. I am no longer that person. I showered before joining Heather in bed, but despite a bit of alcohol, sleep eluded me. Frustrated, I rose to engage in some work. Reflecting on the situation, I shook my head in disbelief. Damn you, Ivan! All you ever did was play with my emotions. It would have been okay if there weren't a child involved. Even Heather, you're messing with her mind. *** I woke up to the realization that Heather was no longer beside me. Despite the throbbing pain in my head, I compelled myself to rise and tend to my child; it was already eight in the morning, and she might be hungry. After fre
Almira quickly recovered from her surprise. She returned a serious look to the man she was hiding from. Chelle, on the other hand, seemed as though she had seen a ghost while looking at Ivan's friend. I didn't know whether it was Angus, Caius, or Huxley. Ivan grabbed my attention, and I blinked in response. "What are you doing here?!" I exclaimed at him. What was his deal, suddenly showing up here? I wanted to slap some sense into him, but I refrained from revealing my bitterness, despite feeling a strong urge to vent in those moments. "You're drunk; go home," he replied calmly. His voice was gentle as if he were a patient spouse comforting an upset wife. I scowled. I didn't budge from my seat. Who was he to tell me what to do? The nerve of him! "Let's go," he invited, but I remained stubborn. I looked in another direction, arms crossed. He patiently looked at me. Why did he seem angry with me? What did I do wrong? And what was he doing here? He sighed. His face softened again
I attempted to force a smile despite the pity evident in Almira and Rachelle as they awaited our arrival. They hugged me, encouraging me not to cry, but my tears flowed uncontrollably. I felt exceptionally exposed when it came to him. Heather promptly joined Myrrh to engage in a play. "Please stay in the room, alright?" Almira instructed. She didn't want her child to go outside and be around other people. Mira, too, preferred not to interact with or be observed by others. They were in hiding, which is why their presence caught me off guard. I wouldn't have cried if they hadn't insisted on going over the events again. I was frustrated with the repetitive nature of the story, including the details of how we became a couple. They laughed when I expressed my annoyance. I knew they did it deliberately, but I’m not sure for what reason. I scowled, crossing my arms. "Let's not discuss him! It's getting on my nerves!" They burst into laughter. "That's one of the steps to move on—refusing
A few minutes of heavy silence lingered. With hesitation, I parted my lips. "O-Okay," I nodded. He sighed, affirming his decision, and gradually retreated from me until he left the room. I lost track of time as I stared at nowhere. When I finally blinked, the dampness on my cheeks revealed the silent tears. Swiftly, I wiped them away. What should I do? I contemplated for a few moments, then reached for my phone. Anxiety tightened its grip on me, prompting the need to find someone to talk to instead of surrendering to a breakdown. I refused to let weakness take over. Given the challenges I've faced, heartbreak felt like nothing more than a fleeting mosquito bite. "Hello? How are you? Are you okay?" Rachelle bombarded me with questions. I hadn't spoken to her since the incident. My life was a whirlwind of events. Kidnapped, and now Ivan was informing me about the impending annulment. I cleared my throat, gazing up at the expansive sky before uttering, "Ivan is ending things with m
I lost consciousness, and the duration eluded me. Upon regaining awareness, an unusual noise enveloped me—the resonant hum of a formidable engine. Unsure if it originated from the vessel, a more clamorous sound ensued. My eyes remained shut, shrouding me in uncertainty about my surroundings. Amidst the chaos, echoes of screams, gunfire, and an urgent call of my name reached my ears. Then, all plunged into darkness once again. Upon waking, a white ceiling and bright light greeted me. "I-Ivan?!" The man I addressed approached with concern, and tears welled up in his eyes as he saw me. "I had a bad dream," I murmured. He enveloped me in a tight hug. "Yes, love. It's just a bad dream." We are presently at the hospital. Ivan is in good condition, while there's a bag of intravenous cellulose water hanging, connected to my arm. I lost consciousness and had to undergo stitching for the wound on my cheek. The doctor mentioned that it was a deep and relatively large cut, necessitating