A Normal Woman

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Valentina opened her eyes, blinking away the remnants of sleep, to find herself gazing at the face of the man she had loved with all her heart for nearly three years. The morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow on his features, making him look even more attractive.

It was a wonder how they had managed to stay together for so long, considering the numerous fights and arguments they had endured. Each disagreement had felt like a storm, but they had weathered them all.

He was a handsome man, and to add to that, he was rich. The allure of his wealth and charm meant there were countless women who would leap at the chance to be with him, even for just one day.

Yet, he chose her.

A normal woman, or so she had thought.

Valentina Rodriguez.

22 years old.

She came from a family that she preferred to describe as middle-class, though the truth was slightly different.

Her father, Andrew Rodriguez, was the owner of a successful tech company, and her mother, Lovy Arden, ran a thriving fashion business. After their marriage, they merged their companies, creating a powerful conglomerate known for its innovation and prestige.

She had four siblings:

Mason, the eldest, who had always been the responsible one.

Peter, the second, known for his sharp wit and occasional recklessness.

Herself, the third, who often felt caught between her brothers’ conflicting personalities.

Anne, the youngest, who was still navigating her way through college and figuring out her own path.

When her parents announced their intention to retire, Valentina felt a wave of relief wash over her, almost as if a burden had been lifted. The thought of stepping away from the family business was both liberating and exhilarating.

When Mason and Peter were chosen to take over, she found herself rejoicing. She’d shouted her gratitude to the heavens, “Thank you for keeping me away from this busy world!”

He was a good man, with a physique that seemed to embody every woman’s fantasy. His sculpted abs, the result of countless hours in the gym, were the kind of thing that made her heart race.

She couldn’t help but drool at the sight of them.

Those abs were his reward for his dedication to fitness, even on days when his schedule was packed.

That dedication was one reason for their frequent arguments.

Even if he was busy, it didn’t excuse forgetting her birthday or their anniversary. She put effort into their relationship, despite her own demanding schedule.

This didn’t mean she didn’t understand his stress. He was from a wealthy family with a global presence in several industries, and the K Tech Company was at the forefront.

He was the boss of K Tech Company.

So, what was one day off for him?

They didn’t work at the same company—she preferred working in human relations, which was more fulfilling to her than the cutthroat business world.

Pfft. The irony.

He had once offered her a job as his personal assistant, a position that would have placed her under his direct supervision.

But she loved her current job, despite her dislike for her boss.

Adding to the complication was the fact that her boss was a friend of her father’s. She didn’t understand why her father would befriend someone like him.

He had a clear disdain for her, and she returned the sentiment.

Her family had accepted Kayden as her boyfriend, though it had taken some time. He underwent their scrutiny and came through with flying colors, quickly winning their approval.

He was a charmer.

A charmer from the first glance.

Valentina had bumped into him at a well-known coffee shop one morning. In her usual clumsy fashion, she had slipped, spilling her expensive latte all over his immaculate coat and white shirt.

Realizing who he was, she had been mortified. The sight of the young, successful businessman in a casual setting had caught her completely off guard.

Long story short, he gave her his number and instructed her to replace his ruined attire.

Embarrassed and reluctant to ask her parents for a large sum of money, she turned to Mason and Peter for help.

Their reaction was furious. They advised her to ignore Kayden’s demands and forget the incident. However, she pleaded with them to help her, promising that once the suit issue was resolved, she wouldn’t be involved with him again.

They reluctantly agreed, but the promise was short-lived. Kayden’s charm proved irresistible.

He began sending flowers and gifts, taking her on romantic dates, and eventually, she found herself falling deeply in love with him.

When her brothers discovered what had happened, they were outraged and gave her the cold shoulder for the next two weeks. Perhaps that was why they remained hostile toward him.

Names and ages:

Mason Rodriguez, 26 years old.

Peter Rodriguez, 24 years old.

Anne Rodriguez, 20 years old, who was staying near her college to complete her design course.

Her parents were eager for her to marry Kayden as soon as possible, despite her own reservations. She knew she needed to discuss this with him soon.

His family had treated her with kindness and respect. It was reassuring to know that her parents had met them during various business meetings.

Kayden had been a constant source of support, caring for her through both good and bad times. After he convinced her to move in with him, their life together had begun in earnest.

Just like her parents, both of Kayden’s parents were businesspeople. River Ilmanto and Nova Larsch had an arranged marriage, and Kayden was their only son.

Her parents were overjoyed when they learned she was dating him. Marriage would bring not just financial security but also an enviable position in high society.

But for her, it wasn’t about the money. She was after his love.

Name: Kayden Ilmanto, 24 years old.

“Done staring?”

Valentina’s thoughts were interrupted by his voice. She had been lost in admiration, while his eyes remained closed, savoring the moment.

“How did you know I was staring at you?” she asked, blushing.

“Well, I have my ways,” he said with a smirk.

“That’s impossible. Plus, I’m not staring at you,” she retorted, though her blush deepened.

“Okay, keep telling yourself that,” he said playfully, opening his dark brown eyes to meet her light blue ones. She gazed back at him with affection.

He scooted closer and planted a tender peck on her lips, which quickly turned into a passionate kiss.

And so, they were once again running late for work.

The ringing of his phone interrupted their intimate moment. His light blonde hair was tousled, and he groaned in frustration as he reached for the device.

Valentina chuckled softly as he answered the call. She took this opportunity to slip into the bathroom for a quick shower.

As she emerged, wrapped in a fluffy towel, Kayden was finishing up his call.

“So, it’s tonight, right?” he asked the caller.

“Alright,” he replied, ending the conversation.

Valentina moved to the closet and began sorting through her clothes, looking for something suitable for work.

“My friends are holding a party tonight. Want to join us?” Kayden asked.

She looked at him and smiled, then shook her head. She was glad he didn’t press the issue.

Valentina wasn’t particularly fond of parties, getting drunk, or dancing with strangers. She’d only do it if she needed to unwind, was coerced by a friend, or had a specific reason.

With her evening free, she contemplated using the time to indulge in her little secret.

A sudden thought struck her. Did she truly enjoy it?

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