"Congrats! Another successful concert!" Luke hugged me at the same time, while Rita was still in tears by our side.
"You're really good, Ma'am!"Many more greetings happened backstage. Rose and Brenda, who had a banner before, didn't give up. It wasn't the first concert I had, but it felt like the happiest. Not because there were more spectators, but because they were waiting for me below the stage.When I entered the dressing room, I did not hesitate to find him. He was leaning on the small table, staring at the gifts I received from the fans.I slowed down and stared at him intently. He's now staring darkly at the boxes of chocolates. His brows were furrowed, seemed so annoyed at the innocent chocolates."You like?" I taunted.He looked up at me. I walked a bit faster and he immediately snaked his arm around my waist when I got closer."You're friends with Caesar Ferrer?" he asked.The elders laughed at her enthusiasm. Even the Sage laughed as well."Looks like you're the one getting married, ah?" Revo said."I'm just excited! I always dreamed of you all getting married. Now, it looks like I'm just waiting for Kuya Markus. You still don't have a plan, Kuya?"Morris, Sage and Revo stopped laughing. Markus's face was serious as he turned to his cousin. Maddy bit her lower lip subtly like she just realized she did something wrong."I don't think I will settle down anytime soon, Maddy. Do you mind waiting a little longer?" he said softly like he was taking good care of his cousin's feelings. But his eyes reflected darkness, one that is cold and too deep to be understood by anyone."Okay ..."A moment of silence prevailed over us. It was like the latter part of the topic created tension between the young Mongrecos. And I think their intense connection to each other is too strong to be sha
"Oh, Kaia is here." Jonas pointed to the girl wearing a pale pink dress. She was staring at the piano with her curious innocent eyes.His candle-like fingers traced the space in front of the piano. The amazement was etched on her pale face. Looking down, his long lashes were sharpened. Those have little curls at the end, making her eyes look so soft.Her hair is longer compared to previous visits. Although I heard she's only nine, the way she looks and move told me she's older than that. His demeanor was refined even as a child. And she has that paper white skin that I always notice every time it turns to pinkish white, when it's sunny or when from tiredness every time she helps her Mama."She's so pretty, isn't she? I'll make her my girlfriend once she's thirteen or fourteen," Carson said to me immediately."Why don't you prioritize your project? You're not here to fancy a little girl, Carson.""Ow. You sound like you
She needed to heal from her pain and I can do nothing to help her. It hurts to think but that's how love should be. Generous. Even you yourself are completely exhausted.I gave a small paper to Sandro."That's the agency that Mrs. Robles contacted for Kaia's bodyguards. I want you to do something about that. Make sure your staff are her bodyguards. I want a first hand communication with the persons guarding her."He smirked."What? You want me to cheat? My agency is honest, Sage. We're not kidnapping clients.""I'll pay. So basically, I am your client here.""You really like manipulation, huh?""Will you?" I asked impatiently.The corner of his lip lifted and he patted my shoulder. "I'll do it."Slowly, I noticed how she's slowly coping. I'm glad he's somehow recovering. But everytime she sees me, I see anger and fear in her eyes. He always walks away. So over the yea
Tears welled up in my eyes as I looked at the name engraved on the tombstone. Even after all the pain I've gone through the past years, even after all the manipulation he has done in my life, I still can't bring myself to stop my tears.Maybe because despite the pain I suffered then, I did not suffer in life and eventually, I was also able to be happy somehow. Maybe it was really the best decision that time. To sacrifice my dreams and love, so I could protect what I have now.I'm sorry for the disappointments, father. I whispered in the air silently.Though even I could turn back time, I won't correct my mistakes. Because I learned to love my life now. That's what I have now. And I won't sacrifice the life I have now for what I had years ago."Neri ..." Patrick called.I quickly wiped away the tears and turned around. He looked at me with worried eyes. But I only looked at him for a moment because I immediately turned to the child holding his hand.
"I'm sorry, Mrs. Lacson, but that's all.""It's impossible that's the only amount Daddy left for me and Maycee! It doesn't seem right!""Mr. Medellin just did many wrong business decisions. He invested on a research of a new device that failed. And the last importation of batteries and semiconductors to Japan failed as well because forty percent had defects. The company even filed a lawsuit for that. He also owes money. His last card was putting up a new project. But ... "Attorney didn't continue because we both knew what happened next."Worst, he also used your trust funds in those failed investments, Mrs. Lacson.""What? You can't, Attorney! That was my mother's money! You can't–""I'm sorry, hija. He was authorized to touch your trust fund. He also used that in gambling."I didn't think that Daddy would interfere so I was complacent and didn't look at the funds. I never thought he would touch that! That's Mommy's money from Grandpa!
"Settlement? Why, don't you have enough money to give me back my hundred millions, Mrs. Lacson?" he said in a mocking tone.I clasped the hand on my lap. Never in my whole life I was insulted that way. It was as if he wanted to make me feel like I was nothing compared to him."How about your husband? I thought he's rich? Doesn't he also have money to pay?" he grinned jointly. But I feel that he is not happy, instead he is still angry.I sighed but I remained looking at him. This is for the business, for Maycee's future, remember it clearly, Neri. Remember what you should do."My husband is out of this mess, the reason why I refused his help. I want to do something for the business on my own. Your lawyer said you are willing to settle, so I am here, thinking I have a better option, "I said formally.The curve in his lips vanished."What do you want me to do?" I don't mess around anymore."Give me your father's shares. I want the chief
"My name isn't something relevant. Just don't mind it and enjoy my company."He laughed a bit. "If you don't have a name, how should I call you, then?""Names aren't important in one night interactions, Markus.""How sure are you that it's just a one night interaction? If Bryce brought you here, that means we have common acquiantances. It's possible we'll meet again.""I'm not close to Bryce. I was just paid to be a showgirl. It's just work."Of course, where else would I run but to lie!"How much was your night, then?"I was not silent in shock, insult and shame. I've encountered so many rude men who also have the looks and money, but not as rude and arrogant as him.My cheeks, neck and chest became hot from the irritation. The elder Mongrecos are decent and honorable people, as far as I know them. Maddy grew up well. Revo is also playful but not rude. Sage is fine too. I don't know how they have a relative so rude.But
Due to the relentless curiosity, Nina was finally forced to speak. I think it's better for her to share it than let her thoughts pile up inside."My supposed engagement won't happen."Oh. I remember. There was a rumor about a possible merging of their family and the Mongrecos through marraige. Even without an official declaration, it is prevalent among families. I just don't know who Mongreco will marry."Why?"Nina's tears rolled down her cheeks.For some, fixed marriage is too primitive and morally inappropriate. But many families still work then. The richest of the richest. It's practical since it's for business' longevity. But it is also possible that you will like the person who will marry you even if you do not know each other very well.I thought if it's fixed marriage, the relationship lacks emotional attachments. But now, I realize that such a set up isn't too bad because it's possible to like each other in the end. Nina wouldn't cr
I almost shivered when his hand touched my waist. Every flick of his tongue was full of ardor. I was so close to his shoulder when he lifted me off the bed. Crouching in front of me like a dominant hunter ready to end his long famine, he pulled my nape aggressively as he gave me an alluvion of intoxicating kisses. A strange heat flared up in my body. His hand skillfully found the zipper of my dress and maneuvered it, while his hot kisses were traveling down to my jaw. I flinched at the caress of his hand on my back. My body was shaking and it feels like I couldn't hold on to my precious sanity any longer. My inhibitions and rationality were all thrown out of the window, leaving my mind empty. With my kind of lifestyle, I could have easily gave in to my past boyfriends who asked me for it. I’m not ready yet, that’s what I always say. But the truth is, I was searching for the man who could make me feel like this. I can’t give that to past boyfriends because I c
Holding my books, my props rather, I went in, and the chatterings were silenced.It wasn't long though, when I heard soft murmurs."Grace? So she's the one who will help Mrs. Rellis present the topic? Pero first year lang siya. Don't you think that's a bit off?" the girl on the third row whispered to her seatmate."Ah. It's a good thing I didn't continue to be absent. I wouldn't miss this," the man in the back said. His group looked at me as if I'd be pleased with their smug smiles."Yeah, bro. Grace's beautiful. I really don't know why so many are afraid of her. I mean, why would they be scared of an angel's face?"I could feel my lips almost twitching. Angel? I wonder if I'd let them see my fangs, would they still think the same?"Pabida. Isn't this an insult to us? We're in our third year and then we will be taught a first year without even taking a course?"Jealousy. One of the emotions very common among humans. Nothing new.
My eyebrows rose."In that case, why are you still here?"His lips parted a bit and gave me a critical look. He didn't speak immediately as if he knew I would be offended by what he was going to say."Tita suddenly ordered something so Cesar left on my motorbike. I will take you home.""What ?!""Yes, Chanelle."Lintik!"What is Mommy's order and all of a sudden ?!""I don't know. Cesar never said that."I sighed and rolled my eyes. Push me into the back seat. Why is it that he was not the only one ordered instead of my driver.Mommy and Daddy took a long time to get home that night. It's often like that. So every time like that, often, I deliver dinner to teresa or say to eat later. I don't even want to keep up with Euan.I rehearsed the lines of my audition piece before going to sleep. With my effort, I'm sure there's a good chance I'll get it. So the next day, I was really positive."Good luck, Ch
Of course! Why would I prioritize anything else if I knew my family was falling apart? I would have booked the earliest flight the moment I heard the news."Of course, I also don't want to ruin a special event in your life. Especially since you announced you had a big endorsement offer in the States."I sighed. Coming back to Philippines was supposed to be just a short vacation. And even before going home, I decided to accept the offer. While I was studying my film degree, I also accepted some modeling jobs and catwalks.At first, I only accepted the offer because I was bored and wanted to try. Eventually, I realized it's fun and I was actually good at it. So I started accepting offers one after another. My parents didn't have problem with it.Mommy even offered to help me land in good offers, since she was also a model before, and many acquaintances. But I declined because it seemed unfair to others who eeffort to go to go-sees. I don't want to be chosen
I was a little terrified when we looked at each other. I immediately turned to Mommy."Mom, he looks unpleasant. He's too thin, pale and has very dark eyes. He looks like the nerd and malnourished version of Dracula–""Chane!"I stopped and bit my lower lip."He's a very kind boy. He's poor and has no relatives. He has nowhere to go. Can't we help him a bit?""Then, bring him to the orphanage?"Mommy greeted me."We're not planning to adopt him, okay? We'll just help him a bit. You'll remain our only baby, Chanelle," she assured me and kissed my forehead.I pouted. I looked at the boy again and when I saw that he was also looking at me, I hid a little from Mommy. I'll remind Daddy later to double the locks on my door. Maybe later it's Dracula's slave and he's planning to suck my blood at night.With another person living in our house, it was really hard to adjust at first. I got used to just the three of us Mommy s
"What ?! You're just suddenly popping up there! What are you? Ghost?"His brow raised."How about you? Why are you standing there in the middle? You're even modeling in the car park?"This idiot!"What do you care? Mind your own business!" once turn away from him and walk away.Though, it's not long when I heard his voice again. He followed me."Where are you going, Chanelle? You've already passed your car."I closed my eyes tightly, not looking back at him."I know! I won't use that car. Froilan already has the key so how can I use it?""And what car are you in?""Cinderella's carraige?" my sarcastic answer."Very funny, Chane.""Oh, I'm glad I humored you!"A tug on the wrist stopped me. In shock I even released the clutch. I glared at Euan. If I could just blow out the fire, he would have been cooked for a long time."You're being dragged! You've been here before, ah? What the hell i
"Chane Estrella?"I smiled at the acquaintances. They were shocked that I came."Chane! You're back! When else?""Just hours ago," I replied and looked around. It's just that I couldn't find Daddy because there were other acquaintances to greet him."Hello, hija! Are you here to accompany your Daddy?"I smiled at the old woman. Family friend so I let go."Yes. Actually, my Mommy should be with her now. But something urgent came, so I'm here on her stead.""Oh! But I thought ..." she trailed off and laughed a bit.The malicious glint in her eyes told me what she's thinking. I plastic smiled and passed him. Supposedly friendly, but really just want to gossip.The whispers of the envy did not escape me, the ones who can never reach my level, so the envy just goes through the motions. I continue walking without looking at them, unbothered by whatever they're talking about behind my back.An actor greeted me. I would h
"She offered me and my father's campaign team to stay here for the campaign. She promised a comfortable place and good accommodation. Is that what you're saying?""She didn't promise anything else?" His lips stretched in doubt. The look is stinging."What else would she promise?""Like marrying me?"There was a ghost of smile on his lips."She brought you here. She won't do that just to help. It's obvious that she's pairing us."I grinned and shook, laughing. I never thought he could humor me that way.Her eyes narrowed as if wondering why I was reacting that way."Why? You're afraid to be tied up?" I taunted."So you know Mama has such a plan? You want to marry me?"This brute! Very arrogant too really. Is he thinking that every woman in the world is dying to marry him? Ridiculous."Don't worry. I'm sure your Mama has no plans to marry us. And I don't want to marry you as well."Her smile faded. For
The first courses and drinks were served. I was expecting that we'll talk about family issues that night, but since Tita Glesilda was there, if not the business then the campaign is in question."Actually, Leandra wants him to lead the campaign there in Antique this summer.""Really?" Tita Glesilda looked at me."Yes, Glesilda. She's that passionate to help her father's campaign," Mama said proudly."That's good! If so, where will she stay in Antique during that time?""We have a mansion in San Ardiente. She can stay there with the campaign staffs.""But who will take care of them there? Do you have househelps there?""Ah. Right! We haven't been there since Mama died so only the caretaker was left. But ... I think we could just send househelps ...""Oh, that's too hassle, Ramona! How about this ... I'll house them in our mansion in Vida Riqueza?"Lucius and I looked at each other. He raised an brow and smirk."Are