I pursed my lips together with her cold attitude. I suddenly want to go home, ashamed that they'll think I'll be eating with them.
Zekiah got food and gave the platter to me. Albeit shy, I accepted his offer and smiled timidly.
"We're sorry. The dish is just chicken feet adobo," Rupert said.
I shook my head repeatedly. "It's fine, I also eat adobo," I shyly said.
"But not chicken feet?" Julieta interjected, staring at me deeply as if reading something on my face.
Instead of responding to her, I ate the dish. "Hmm, it's delicious!" I exclaimed.
"Are you with Carding?" Zekiah asked after he got himself his food.
"Nope, I brought my car."
I heard Julieta snorted at that and whispered something to Badong.
"You should've waited for me in the house," he stated.
I pouted. I don't want to think of something not good, but is something wrong with me going here? Is it because Julieta is here, too?
"Mr. and Mrs. Echeverii has arrived," Mom announced their presence.I glanced at the new arrivals and smiled as I spotted Ellwood in his black suit."What are you waiting for, Emory?" Mom turned her scowl face at me.I stood up to greet them.Good evening, my dear friend! Happy birthday!" Uncle Geoffrey said, offering a handshake to Dad which the latter gladly accepted, also doing the same to Auntie Stella."Thank you," Dad returned a smile.Ellwood also greeted him and kissed both Dad and Mom on the cheek. "Happy birthday, Tito.."He then turned to me and pecked a kiss on my check. "Hi..." he whispered.I rolled my eyes at his grinning face. "Uh, Good evening, Uncle. Auntie!" I greeted them and did the same gesture."I'm glad to see you again, hija! You've been on vacation for a long time" Auntie Stella opened a conversation right away."Ah, yes! I returned for Dad's brithday.""Then, you still have plans to go back?" Uncle Geoffrey asked.Before
Meredith, open this door! Let's talk!" Mom shouted from the other side of the door. I didn't mind her. Instead, I fixed myself. I harshly wiped the makeup and lipstick on my face and pulled my hair into a bun. "Meredith!" The knocks were loud but I remained unbothered. I've never been disappointed in my entire life until I heard that fucking news. I can't believe they arranged me with Ellwood. He's my best friend since I was in grade school, for pete's sake! Haven't they even considered that my friendship with Ellie is at stake here? I don't want to think that Ellie agreed to this for money. I'm sure he's just forced to agree to this. I know him very well, he never once showed any romantic interest towards me. He's just naturally flirty so I know that those higs and kisses were just friendly gestures. And I know that he's a certified fuck boy! He has new girls with him everytime, and I don't give a damn about who's his girlfriend now.
"H-hello?" Shit! I bit my lip because of stuttering. "Meredith?! Finally, you answered my call! How are you? I was worried about you." I gulped and sat slowly on the edge of the bed. I can feel my heart stumbling and falling as I think of a response. "I'm sorry. I'm fine, Alessandra..." I merely whispered. "Oh, I missed you. Gabriel said you didn't inform him about your sudden leave, but he got your text so, when will you be back?" she asked without a pause. I held my forehead as I laid down my bed. I sighed heavily, "Yeah, I will be reporting on Monday. I'm sorry, there's an emergency so I had to go to Queensland," I said, lacking of energy. "Great! We're planning to go out of town, to Galla Via Island! I'm expecting you to be here with us before 10 in the morning," she said. I gulped, feeling my nerves starting to build as I think of meeting him in an hour. "Uh, I'm sorry. I just got here from a long drive. Ma
I only opened my eyes when I heard strides walking down the stairs. I can feel my face getting hot as I stared at him for a fleeting moment, wearing his white polo shirt and khaki shorts, partnered by a pair of white rubber shoes. God, he's looking so unbelievably handsome! I curved my lips to smile but he looked at me with nothing but stone cold eyes. The smile on my lips quickly faltered as I sat properly. "Are you done? Let's go, Marcus got out first," Alessandra told him. Gabriel turned to me, jaw clenching at what his wife said. He was mum about it and walked out of the mansion. I blew a harsh breath before standing up to follow the two at the garage. I didn't wait for Alessandra to say something and entered the backseat to sit there. I placed my earphones in my ears and played a slow rock music on Spotify so I wouldn't hear what they're talking about later. Because I lacked sleep, I was quickly lured into slumber. I felt someone
I was trapped and dazed, I could feel my heart race for a moment. I wanted to stop feeling this way, but it's slowly escaping, aching for romance. "Hezekiah..." my lips said. I couldn't recognized my voice anymore. It was late when I realized what I said. His forehead creasedin confusion. I quickly averted my eyes away from him. "You called me what?" he asked seriously and never left my eyes. "I–I'm sorry... I was just, tired.." I said, eyes on the ground. He abruptly grabbed my arm and stared at me in disbelief. "Hezekiah, I heard you called me that name." His face was a whole question mark as I felt his grip getting tighter. I chuckled slightly and shook my head. "I want to rest, just lock the door when you leave..." I harshly pulled my arm away from him. Not looking back, I entered one of the rooms and locked the door. That was close, Meredith. It was the perfect time to confess that I'm his wife but I was scared. I
"Hmm, he's handsome, don't you find him attractive?" he lowered his eyelids to look at her. "What? Of course not..." Alessandra chuckly said. Gabriel glanced at me and poured his glass a drink before pouring mine. "He likes you," he said in a low volume. Alessandra's eyes widened as she faced her husband. "No, he doesn't. We're just friends!" her lips quivered, tears filling her eyes to the brim. I witnessed how Gabriel pulled her into a hug. Alessandra buried her face on his chest. I slowly blinked my eyes, just like how painfully slow my heart is tearing apart. I quickly looked down and drank the whiskey. "Join them," he said in a hushed voice and dipped his head to kiss her on the lips. Because of my deep love for him, he could easily hurt my vulnerable feelings like what he did right now. It was a quick kiss but it can't comfort the pain that's slowly arising in my heart. "You're not mad?" Alessandra
I FILLED my lungs with gusty air and proudly flaunted my body towards the water. When I reached the right depth of the water, I started to dive underneath the salty water. The coldness of the water made my lips quiver, but I didn't mind. I just wanted to wash away everything although the water level is getting higher due ti high tide. I breathed in real slow. The flaming rage in my heart disappeared completely. I felt refreshed and light as I stayed longer. The moon guided me through the water deeply. I was challenged to dive deeper. I could see nothing but pitch-black darkness. When I felt the waves' current getting stronger, i decided to swim back up. When I thought it's easy to swim up, I suddenly felt pain on my legs. It made me nervous. My leg was cramped and strained so bad that I could hardly move it. A scream came out of my mouth before I drowned. I tried so hard to swim but I just can't. I'm drowning and panicking. I wanted to find the water'
Under the dim lights, I could see his subtle reaction that made me shiver. I know it's wrong to ask him but I'll stand by my decision. "Instead of questioning what I did, why don't you just thank me?" He lowered his head to make an eye to eye contact with me. I can't seem to stand his stares for long so I was the first one to look away. "Thank you... for saving my life," I muttered. He laughed at my response, completely different than what I've expected. He pulled the glass from my grasp and placed it on the table. "You should take a rest. I'll lead you to your room." Before I could even refuse, he already started walking towards my cottage. But I held his hand tightly to stop him which made him turn to me. I tightened my grip on his wrist when he lowered his gaze at me. His eyes lingered at me. I also heard his gnashing teeth clearly. "Ahm, I-I just wanted a minute alone with you..." I honestly said. He looked
"Nice... I love the party..." His one hand was inside his pocket while the other was holding the glass of cocktail juice, sipping on it coolly. "I wanted it simple and solemn. I didn't invite big names and personalities," I said. "Is he invited? Did you inform him?" He asked smoothly. But before I could even answer him, my eyes caught that man walking inside the entrance of the gate. My heart was frozen by his surprise appearance. Looking so magnificently hot and seductive in his navy blue long sleeve polo that folded up to his forearms. He never failed to clutch my heart out and leave me breathless. I watched him cross the crowded people while his eyes never left mine. I wanted to stare at him more, but it was cut off when I heard Ellwood clearing his throat beside me. "Whatever speech you have boiling, I don't wanna hear it," I said through my tight lips. I heard him chuckled lowly before leaving me alone and greeting Hezekiah. "Dude, long time no see... I'm glad you came." E
I realized a lot of this when Alessandra and I had a talk. I left her with a light heart and there's no anger left inside. Even before, I already forgave her.I halted from my tracks when I felt something wet gushed on my thighs. Then my stomach rumbled in pain."Oh God!"I quickly walked to the car. My delivery seemed earlier than the due date? I thought I could still drive but I can't take the pain.I was left with no choice but to call Ellwood."What?! We... wait, where exactly are you?!" he frantically said.I told him the exact place and after only a few minutes, I heard his car nearing.I woke up in a child's loud cry. I slowly opened my eyes and looked for the baby."Hey, wonder woman."My eyes lifted to Ellwood. I can't help but to smile.Beside him was a man carrying a child. My tears started forming at that scene."You're here?" I uttered in my low and weak voice.Ellwood glanced at Hezekia
"Were not yet through, my wife," he spoke in a rough voice, making sure he has control over me."Please just fucking let go off me..." I thought it would come out as a hard tone, but it came out almost like a whisper in the wind."I know you've been dreaming of me last night, every fucking minute of your night. I know deep there inside, you wanted this much to happen as much as I want you..." His soft tone vibrated all over my nerves."No. I don't... I can't!" I sterntly said. Tears formed around my eyes but I didn't let it fall."As much as I wanted to be near you or being with you. I just can't... I couldn't, Hezekiah." I slowly shook my head."It's not that easy. Alessandra is alive and your child... your child you chose over me!" My voice already cracked but I still my managed myself."No, Sweetheart," he whispered softer now."Please..." I struggled to get off of his hold but he didn't let me."Just one more chance, sweeth
"What time is the ribbon cutting again?"I was talking about the opening of the Jewelry shop Hezekiah built. He also invited me to the mall in Manila that just got finished, but I couldn't go because it's too far. I decided to just go to the new branch of the company because it doesn't sit right that I couldn't attend this event, too."10 am in the morning, so may you still have time to think about it again." She rolled her eyes and stood up."Come on, Zuay! I know it's not you..." I teased. Even if she said that she hates Hezekiah, I know she's still hoping for us to get back together again."Tss... I better go back to work." She turned around and and left my office.After she closed the door, I leaned my back against the chair. I gently caressed my baby bump and closed my eyes.He shouldn't find out about my pregnancy. Not because I don't want to give him his rights as a father, but because I'm scared of the result once he found out.
I chuckled lightly, "We already talked, he went to Galla a few days before I flew black here. He asked for my forgiveness and a chance, but–""No, no, wait... you mean, you two talked and you didn't even mention your situation?"I slowly shook my head.My gaze lifted to him when he held my hand above the table."You should've told him that you are pregnant."My lips quivered while staring at him. I didn't expect him to say that. I know he didn't like Hezekiah for me even way before. Why does it seem like the world just turned upside down?"No, I can't..." I shook my head again.His eyes lingered on me. He slowly caressed my hand and looked darkly at me."I want to show you something..."We didn't finish our food because we quickly walked our way to his car.I didn't ask where we were going, but based on the path we're taking, I think I know where it will be.When his car stopped in front of Cervantes
Carrying the bottle of wine and long glass, I walked my way to his cabin. I know the risk of taking this chance, but I have to do this to clear things out. What's about to happen may exceed my expectations, but I don't want to worry about it now. Clad with the tiny speck of courage left in me, I raised my hand to knock on his door. The door opened and I saw shock registered on his face when he saw me but composed himself right after. "Uh, I–I ah..." I quickly raised the bottle of wine and the long glass. Instead of saying anything, he just got the bottle and glass from me. He pulled the door close which made me step back... "Didn't you enjoy your wine?" His voice flowed calmly. My breathing hitched as he stepped closer, not wanting to be inches apart. "Yeah, we need to talk." I finally said. We're now facing each other in front of the small table of his cottage. He poured himself a glass of wine and took it all in one g
From a distance, I could already see Ellwood at a corner of the restaurant. He glanced at me and slid his phone on his pocket before standing up. "I'm glad you accepted my invitation." I said formally before offering my hand for a handshake. "My schedule is not that tight today," he said and sat down. I signaled the waiter to serve the foods and drinks I reserved. "I wanna go straight to the point. I want to pay all of the Cervantes' debts on you and your family. Even the interests and your effort and swats on the company. Name it, I'm ready to pay." "I better get going, dear." Aling Sita stirred me from my thoughts. She's probably finished cleaning the vacant cottage. "Why don't you join me in breakfast?" "Thank you, dear, but I have to clean a lot of rooms. And I already had my breakfast earlier, " she said. I glanced at the cottage beside mine before turning to him again, "Is someone gonna rent the vacant cottage?"
"How are you, you went late, huh?" He put two beers on the table and sat in front if me inside the cottage."I just worked overtime. Are the kids asleep?"He seemed to not believe my reason because his eyes went to my swollen lips."Yes, they have school tomorrow."Silence ensued between us."Is it about Emory?"My jaw clenched as I drank off the bottle of beer I'm holding."You won't come here at this late hour if you're problem is not that heavy," he said.I only shook my head and continued drinking."Come on, it's just women. Why don't you leave the other one? Problem solved!" I heard him chuckle before holding his own bottle of beer .I chuckled, if only it's that easy, I would've done that before."Why? Do you love both?"I licked my lips, not knowing what to answer, "You have a lot of questions." A smile appeared on my lips because of his nosiness."I'm serious. I know you love someone more that the other."I shook my head on him. "If
I carefully sat on a chair near her and watched her sleep in slumber. My eyes went to her baby bump. If I'm not mistaken, it's her due month. I can't help but to smile bitterly. I slowly raised my hand and caressed her stomach. If my child didn't die, it's probably my due month, too. Again, the splinter of pain in my heart intensified. I could still feel here inside, digging and buried deep right into my heart. Endless, as if the pain will never stop. "Emory..." I quickly turned to Alessandra's voice. I also quickly removed my hand from her stomach. "H-Hi, how are you?" I said as I cleared my throat. She smiled timidly, "You're here..." she said in her weakened voice. I didn't answer. I also want to ask myself why I decided to come with Marcus. But when I looked into her eyes and watched how she suffered from all of this, I also wanted to question all I went through and ask if what she experienced was actually more painful than