《Will You Remember Then?》


 Chapter 1 - Wrong Name

    Still unable to get over from the overwhelming surprise in knowing that Allyza was pregnant with their second child, Ajie hugged her for what must have been the tenth time already. He was almost tempted to swing her around, if not for the fact that she was currently going through the discomfort of the first trimester of pregnancy. He chuckled aloud but endless tears were dripping down his face. No one could ever tell just how hurt he was when he learned that the only woman he loved for years was pregnant with Hayri''s child. Not even Allyza herself.


    When he decided to set her free, he also tried hard to inculcate in his mind the fact that he must accept the consequence of this unwise decision. It was not anyone''s fault but his when, out of anger, he filed for the annulment of their marriage. He thought he could never forgive her. The fact that she was with another man under the same roof for five long years and the fact that he saw them kissing in his very own eyes, he thought he could never dare to touch her again. A slight touch of her skin would be reminding him of how she had stained their marriage, of how she had defiled herself with another man.


    The anger he harbored dominated while she was still away. He thought this feeling would keep him numb if someday she would announce her marriage to another man. Anyway, he had Jane whom he was comfortable to be with and he hoped that their friendship would develop into something special in the near future. It was only a matter of space and time, then he would be able to welcome Jane fully into his heart.


    Yet, time proved him wrong. The harder he strived to forget Allyza, the more her memories and guilt haunted him. He tried to deny it but on that night at the party when Hayri introduced her as his fiancee, he realized the magnitude of losing his wife forever. He then realized she was no longer his and that she''s now owned by someone else.


    Why does regret always come late?


    Today, he watched her with an aching heart as Hayri ushered her into the ship she designed, witnessed by a huge crowd filling up the port and the people who tuned themselves to the live coverage. Amor Omnia Vincit had just arrived all the way from Turkey to the Philippines as her maiden voyage and the nation had just recognized her as the woman behind the great success. If not for the grave mistake he had commited, he would have been at her side during the recognition. He would have been the proudest husband in the whole world. Because of his stupid mistake in dissolving their marriage due to consuming jealousy, the honor went to Hayri instead.


    Hayri deserved it all. He cared for her despite her pasts and without questions, he embraced all the hidden truth about her personality. He forgave her sins against his family and even proposed to marry her. In fact, the second highlight of this ship''s inauguration today was the formal announcement of their engagement. Who would have thought that instead of finding his heart breaking again during the engagement announcement, he would learn instead that she was pregnant with his own child.


    No wonder why Hayri acted strangely a while ago. No wonder why he seemed to pave his path to her again. No wonder why he saw him left after what seemed like an emotional moment with his dad. Was it because he couldn''t accept that his fiancee was pregnant with a child of her ex-husband? Or, was it because his heart was big enough to set her free?


    Whatever was the reason, what mattered most is that she was pregnant with their second child and winning her back, was no longer as vague as before.


    "Engr. Lopez, may I leave Miss Allyza to you? It seems you have a lot to talk about, " Dr. Yee finally gained the courage to speak up after getting awkward in watching their intimate and emotional encounter.


    Startled, Allyza pushed Adrian away the moment she heard her. Damn it, the emotional tide of the moment made her forget that she was there.


    "I''m sorry, doc," she smiled sheepishly before she continued, "I got lost."


    Dr. Yee chuckled in an understanding tone. "You and Engr. Lopez need a time alone."


    "Doc, it''s Adrian Gonzaga, not Engr. Lopez," Allyza corrected, this was already the second time she addressed him in a wrong name.


    Dr. Yee''s brows narrowed for a second before she glanced up at Adrian. "She has not heard about the news yet," answered Adrian as he looked at Allyza.


    Her puzzled look ignited a laughter within him. "What news?" she frowned, deepening the innocence of her expression.


    "It''s all over the internet and the papers," Dr. Yee reasoned out. She gazed at Adrian and his blink made her get the message that he was not ready yet to push the topic about his new identity.


    "Never mind," Adrian interrupted, "the news about my baby is more important."


    "You''re right. And I think I have to go now," Dr. Yee chuckled again, tapping Allyza''s left shoulder before she went out of the cabin.


    As soon as Dr. Yee closed the door, Allyza gazed into Adrian''s eyes and said, "I will not deny your right as the father of this child. We can arrange for the schedule of your visit."


    Adrian froze at this statement, his rising hope seemed to crumble down.


    "Allie..."


    "We can still be friends, Adrian. You may even bring Jane over during your visit."

 Chapter 2 - Worrying Like Crazy

    Days passed by and the two great vessels were now on their regular trips. Allyza, the world''s largest cruise ship designed and built by Adrian, started cruising around the wonders of Asian countries while Amor Omnia Vincit sailed back to its home port in Turkey to explore on European territories. Hayri opened this new port to accomodate Amor Omnia Vincit during its return from its destination while their old shipyard in Tuzla started to build the new yacht models Allie designed for the company.


    It was already almost a month since Hayri left on the day of her ship''s inauguration but until now, Allyza got no word from him. She tried calling him a thousand times but all her calls did not go through. She left him lots of messages, thinking that he might be so occcupied to answer her calls but even during night time, he still did not reply. She started to feel bad already since it is too unlikely of him to ignore her. There must be something behind and she was afraid it was because of her pregnancy. Who''s a man enough to rejoice over the fact that his fiancee was carrying her ex-husband''s child?


    After some more days of waiting, she decided to go after him in Turkey. Hayri''s dad, Mr.Dioko, had based his business in Tuzla, Turkey when he started to build Gretel''s Shipyard until he expanded into a shipping line. Through his expansion efforts through business partnership, only the shipyard remained as his sole proprietorship, now managed by Hayri. Though his son planned to take over Gretel''s Shipping Lines, Mr.Dioko''s freedom from imprisonment made him decide to return to his post. He didn''t want to be killed by his boredom, should he decide to leave it all to his son. Now, with the change of plan, Hayri decided to expand the shipyard services and started the building of yachts as Allie had initially envisioned.


    As Allie started to pack her things, her phone vibrated before it sang the call alert ringtone. She checked the caller''s name and sighed.  At long last, Hayri remembered her.


    "Zheena, I''m not allowing you to travel. I''m afraid it will affect the baby."


    Allie''s heart sank in hearing him. His intimate ways in calling her and his endearments were now gone. He was even addressing her now with her pseudonym. Hearing his voice as if nothing happened, she started o flare up. She had been worrying for him like crazy but it seemed he didn''t care.


    "Is that all you have to say? Hayri, I have been worrying to death. I have been calling you a miilion times but all I hear is your answering machine."


    "Zheena, calm down. It''s not good for the baby."


    His indirect way of avoiding her concern made her sense something was really off but  Hayri just tried to play well to divert her to another subject.


    "Hayri, just please tell me why you are avoiding me. I will try to understand. Is it because this child is Ajie''s?"


    Hayri paused for a moment and just listened to her, his mind scouting for better and more sensible answer. How could he tell her that it''s because she is his sister?


    "I''m just being busy. Why don''t you focus instead in the opening of your company rather than creating ill thoughts against me?"


    Speaking of Rough Seas Marine Supplies and Equipment, the company she had developed through her hard efforts  after working hours while she was still in Turkey, she remembered Ajie. He had signed a contract to become her company''s major investor in the Philippines and now that she was planning for the launching, she knew she could not avoid seeing him often. She was now worrying that this might cause trouble between her and Hayri.


    "Are you sure it''s alright with you?" she comfirmed.


    His answer came fast, she was even taken aback. "Of course, dear."


    "Hayri, Ajie knows that he is the father. He overheard us while I and Dr. Yee were talking about it."


    Allie''s heart stopped as she waited for his reply. She felt the earth had stopped spinning when it took him an eternity to reply her. She was sure he didn''t like it. While it was never a question if he was willing to give her baby his name, the fact that Ajie knew that he was the father was another dreadful story. It was already uncomfortable on her part that in a week, she would be seeing him often because of Chloe, how much more in the fact that Adrian would have reasons to see her more often because of the baby in her womb.


    "Then don''t deny him of his right."


    Allie felt that this conversation would go nowhere, so she decided to end it up. Just as she placed her phone on the table, a knock on her door alerted her senses back to the reality.


    "Allie, they are here. Adrian wish to talk to you."


    She squinted her eyes as she looked at her mother, wondering what she meant by ''they''. She was still on the first plight of the stair when  she saw Jane carrying Chloe in her arms. She couldn''t understand why but she couldn''t help but feels uncomfortable whenever she was around. She knew and believed sincerely that Ajie still loved her up to this moment but the fact that he was soon going to marry her, created sour knots in her stomach. She wanted to go back to her room but she was already too late, Jane had already seen her.


    "Dr. Jane, it''s good to see you around." It''s too kind of her to say it but in her heart, she meant otherwise.


    "Lyz, from now on, please call me Jane," said Dr. Jane, her smile was just too awkward.


    "Dear skies, why is she feeling close to me?" she mumbled to herself, her mind screaming in deep protest.

 Chapter 3 - She Is My Little Sister

    Allie watched the two in annoyance and grumbled to herself at how shameless they were for having the guts to appear in her house together. All she wanted was a little respect but how come these two were so insensitive to her own feelings? She could forgive them both if they happened to meet at an important event or at any gatherings but for them to come together in her own household was too mind-blowing.


    Chloe was hugging Jane''s neck and it struck envy in her heart. For so long, she became the mother image of her daughter and the thought made her recall all those bitterness she felt inside while she was in Turkey. Lost in her thoughts, she was jolted back to her senses when Jane''s voice floated into her ear.


    "How are you feeling now, Lyz? We are supposed to bring food but I am afraid that the aroma will keep you more nauseated."


    She sneered inwardly at the thought that their unwelcomed presence was stinkier than those food which caused her bowels to go upside down.


    "I''m still far from okay and I feel so awful." She hoped they''d both get her silent message, their presence was the reason why she felt that way.


    To her surprise, she gave out a generous smile which made her wonder if she was in her right mind. No matter how many times this woman would be engaged to Adrian, it wouldn''t change the fact that once in her life, she was a great part of him. This slapping truth was more than enough to keep her reserved for all the dignity she needed to uphold.


    "The baby will soon outgrow your discomfort and all that would remain is the sheer joy of  having a little heart beating inside you."


    "I hope so," Allie answered, forcing herself to give a smile as a response.


    "Of course," she smiled and paused before she continued, " may the baby will have the features of Adrian."


    She felt horrified as some truth dawned on her. It looked like Jane already knew that the child was Adrian''s but how could she afford to smile? Was she a masochist to allow herself to be hurt like this? Of course , this pregnancy revealed  some humiliating truth about him that while she was rejoicing at the anticipation of their marriage, Adrian was with her in bed, instead, making love to her.


    Ajie must have understood her reaction that he chuckled as he watched her turning to red. "You worry so much. Jane knows everything."


    In her shame, she glared at him and to shorten her ordeal, she shifted to another topic. "Do you guys need anything from me?"


    To her horror, Jane''s eyes lit up with excitement and she babbled rather  foolishly in her ears. "Lyz, I know it''s too early yet but I just want to take a look at the baby''s room so that I could plan ahead on the interior design. That''s if you will allow me."


    Her eyes widened in disbelief. Was she really a mortal being to get thrilled by the coming of a baby whose existence would be a perpetual reminder of her fiance''s betrayal on her?


    "Jane, it''s not fun anymore. Can we have a real talk? Are you still a human after all these happened? Do you still have some sense of dignity left inside you?" she ranted in a mixed emotion of annoyance and pity for her own''s sake.


    When she saw that Jane did not respond and even annoyed her more by the calm facade she constantly showed, she went ahead. "Jane, you''re brilliant and beautiful. Why do you allow yourself to be trampled on?"


    "Lyz, you don''t understand..."


    "Who doesn''t understand?" she insisted, now seething in anger.


    Before anyone of them could reply, a buz on the door diverted their attention. Mary came out from the kitchen to open it. To everyone''s surprise,  most especially Allie, the wide grins of Mr. Lopez and his wife greeted them. Needless to ask, she could tell that this beautiful and elegant woman was Mrs. Lopez. Jane had her built and beautiful features.


    "Mom, dad..." Ajie and Jane exclaimed almost simultaneously as they stood up to greet and kiss the elderlies.


    Allie stood up also but her feet remain planted to the floor. A pinching pain gripped her heart as she watched how Ajie treated them as his own parents and not just as in-laws. Furthermore, he already addressed them as "mom and dad", an indication that he was not backing out from his engagement to Jane. This only proved how great a liar he was. He was trying to win her back, only to find out that everything was just a lie. All of a sudden, she felt like crying as her heart seemed to burst in hatred.


    Why are they all here? Are they trying to show her how wrong she is for not accepting Ajie back? For accepting Hayri''s proposal instead? These were the questions popping in her head as she watched how warm and intimate their parents greeted them.


    "Allie, dear. I''m sorry for not being able to meet you earlier. I got tangled up with some things," she said as she pulled her in a tight hug.


    "It''s okay, " she thought, I''m no longer your daughter-in-law, anyway," she mumbled to herself as, out of respect, she also hugged her back.


    "How''s my little grandson inside?" Mrs. Lopez asked and this question sent shivers down Allie''s spine as Mrs.Lopez also bent down to kiss her lower abdomen.


    Allie felt like melting in shame. She glared at Ajie as she tried to hold back her urge to cry. They didn''t have reason to celebrate, Hayri would be the one to be recognized as the father.


    "Adrian, you''re so talkative!" she hissed in anger, ashamed that their joy would be futile because she would soon be marrying another man.


    To her further frustration, Ajie laughed instead. "How could I keep the good news, dear,  when we are talking about my son?"


    Allie was no longer able to keep her emotions. Blame it to her hormonal changes or whatever, what she knew at the moment was to cry her heart out. She was too ashamed!


    To her further dismay,  Ajie rushed up to hug her and the more she got guilty. Jane was there, watching them. How would she feel? Would she still jump for joy that in her very own eyes, her coming husband is  hugging his ex-wife?


    She punched his chest and pushed him away, "You really have the guts,  haven''t you? How could you hurt your fiancee in broad daylight!


    Ajie held her shoulder''s at arm''s length and looked into her eyes. "My love, why in the earth haven''t you known yet? It''s all over the news portal. Jane is my little sister."


    Everyone around who watched them laughed and she felt like silly, wondering at the same time how did it happen. All she knew was her ex-husband Adrian James, whom she fondly called as Ajie, lived in the highlands of Molave...

 Chapter 4 - I Will Come Back

    Looking  back ...


    It was already past midnight and the whole surroundings was quiet. The whole neighborhood was asleep and the lights were all turned off. The leaves of the mangroves which scattered all throughout the shoreline were stooping down, weakened by the sleeping world. The only sound which could be heard was the stiffled sobs of Alie as she peeped into the hole in one of the grids of her room.


    Just few meters away from her, she could clearly see the silhoutte of a man sitting down on a bench outside her closest neighbor''s house. The moon light was illuminating him as it cast its silver and golden hues all over the place. She knew he was waiting for her. She may want to go out and sneak towards him but was held out by her fear that she would cause another trouble to her family.


    Her heart was crying, no, it was profusely bleeding! She knew that before the clock would strike at four, he would be leaving ... forever.


    She was debating against her urge to ran towards him and hug him for the last time but she was also pinned down by her guilt. The more she restrained herself, the more intensed the pain became.


    When the short hand of her watch pointed to number two, she couldn''t hold back herself anymore. Just this once, just for the last time, she would go against her parents''s will! The time was ticking by and further delay would shorten their time to hold each other for the last time.


    She slowly got up and tiptoed towards the door, too careful not to make any sound. Come what may! If she would be caught this time, she would accept the consequence. Anyway, this would be the last time.


    She walked towards the other side of the house where a bench was placed in a corner between the wall of the main body of the house and the wall of the veranda. Ajie followed her right away and pulled her towards him in a very tight embrace. No one dared to talk, their heavy emotions stuck into their throats. Even a single and careless word that may escape from their mouths, would readily tear off the shield of the buckets of tears waiting to flood off.


    After a very long while of holding each other closely, Alie''s shoulders moved as she broke into a silent sob. Ajie hurriedly pulled out from her embrace and lifted her chin up, drowning her sobs into his mouth. He kissed her hardly as if it would be their last, tearing more her heart apart.


    "I''m sorry, I have to do this." His voice cracked as he whispered.


    "But someday I will come back. I may not know when but on that day, I would make it sure that I would already be worthy to ask for your hand."


    Alie wanted to protest and beg but she also knew they needed the distance to calm out the rising tension between their families.


    "Remember this, If you could not wait, I would take you from whoever may own you on the day that I''d be back."


    Her sobbing became louder as she could no longer contain the sense of loneliness which started to diffuse all over her grief - stricken soul.


    She threw her arms around his neck and kissed him back. How could she trust his promises? He couldn''t even tell when he would be coming back. And how could she survive a day without him? What if someone would come along and make him forget? Would he still remember her? Many things could even happen in just an hour, how much more in a day, in a month or in years?


    "I will wait, Jie. No matter how long."


    He pulled her closely once again as a searing pain tore his heart apart. How could he blame his foster family? How could he blame them when all he had was them?


    He should be grateful to the couple who took him up and cared for him as their own son. His nanay''s words, which were the emblem of their love for him, still echoed in his mind.


    "Jie, go to your uncle and auntie in Cebu. Find your future there. That place is much more promising than the green fields of our home. However, it is always my ardent prayer that may you''ll come across with your real family. sooner."


    He remembered himself protesting in deep pain. "You and Tatay is my family, Nay."


    "We love you, son, but you know the truth. I''ll always keep on praying that may you''ll be able to find them again."


    After his tears subsided as he shifted his thoughts back on her, he released her and smiled bitterly.


    "I love you, Alie and I''ll be keeping you in my heart forever."


    "Don''t say that. Sooner, those words would just be empty promises."


    "Believe me, I always keep my words."


    She knew he was sincere but who could stand firm against distance and time?


    Before she could answer, he sealed her lips once more and hugged her tight. Then, with one last tearful gaze as he held her close, he broke away from her and walked away without glancing back.


    She watched him as he slid into his black windbreaker before he put on his backpack. And she watched him as he slowly climbed into the hill and disappeared into the dark.


    The silence of the night intensified the sense of emptiness she now felt inside. If only she could count the days...


    Her thoughts flew back to the moment which brought her both the sense of thrill and fear.


    "Marry me, Alie."


    He said as he held both her shoulders, his eyes piercing through the battle of conflicting emotions deep inside her. There was both reluctance and submission, something she couldn''t separate for the moment.


    "How can we?" she whispered, thinking about the objections she would have to fight alone.


    "Why not?" he asked, a sense of frustration flickering in his eyes.


    "You know that''s impossible for now," she reasoned out, hoping he would understand.


    They were still too young and were still studying. Her parents would never give their consent. They held high hopes for her because she always brought them honors and awards every year.


    "I and my aunt will talk to your parents tonight. We will inform them that my parents will be coming over to ask for your hand." She nodded silently, too afraid of the possible outcome.


    "Alie, answer me. Do you really love me as you say?" he asked, seeing the sense of fear and reluctance in her eyes.


    "You know, I do."


    "Then are you willing to stay with me for the rest of your life?"


    Hurt by the sense of doubt in the way he asked, she looked away.


    "After all these years, do you still have to. doubt? " her voice cracked, too humiliated by his lack of faith.


    "Then, marry me."


    Tears immediately trickled down her face as she answered. Despite her reluctance, despite the fact that she would be fighting for him against the world, she could never afford to lose him. She knew she truly loved this man.


    "I will."

 Chapter 5 - The Lost Child 1

    All the streets leading to the uptown of Cebu City, as well as the main roads downward to the famous Basilica Minore del Sto. Ni?o Church, were swarmed by thousands of people from all walks of life. A survey even had it that during the day of the festival, more than a million people came over to the city, occupying all rooms of the nearby hotels. Vehicular traffic was rerouted away from the Carousel Route of the Grand Sinulog Parade and the riding passengers had to walk great distances from their drop off areas due to total road closures.


    Sinulog Festival is an annual cultural and religious festival in Cebu City as a commemoration of the Cebuano''s first acceptance of Christianity many years ago. It is highlighted by the Grand Sinulog Parade and Street Dancing participated by many groups coming from different places in the country. Thousands of devotees would always come to the festival wherever they may be in the whole world to fulfill their oath and allegiance. Some were also coming to pay their homage due to their special prayer request. Most prayers were about some illnesses occuring inside the family or marriages in the brink of breaking up.


    Even until past midnight or early at dawn, the number of people in the streets would still not ebb down due to street parties or the earlier grand musical fireworks displays held by big establishments like the Cebu City Sports Complex, SM City and Ayala Center.


    It was on this day that Issa was discharged from her hospital admission in one of the big hospitals located at the heart of Cebu City. She was admitted for the removal of her left breast mass. Due to transportation difficulty and the thick crowd, she and her husband, Leo, decided to leave the hospital early the next day.


    While waiting for a taxi to take them to the North Bus Terminal, they sat down on a bench by the entrance of the hospital.


    Few minutes after, Issa narrowed her eyes as she looked down at the boy lying asleep on the cemented plant guard beside the bench where they were seated.


    "Leo, look at the boy! " She tugged down the sleeve of her husband whose eyes were focused on the passing vehicles.


    Leo turned his head and gave her a quick glance and then shifted his eyes towards the boy.


    "Issa, there are too many children lying down in the street sides. He is just one of the children of the beggars roaming around."


    She shook her head to disagree but Leo turned his head back towards the street.


    "Look, Leo! His clothes are not shabby though its already dirty. Those may be from an expensive brand. And look at his shoes and socks! No beggar would wear a very nice pair of shoes and socks which would compliment his clothes! " Issa was already squatting beside him.


    The boy must be three years old. His skin was very fair and his cheeks were pinkish. His eye bags were swollen, obviously from crying. There were black smears on his face which may be due to his dirty hands wiping his tears away. His appearance showed that he came from a well-off family. And as Issa looked at her closely, the boy wore a gold necklace.


    A dawn of realization came to her. This child must be lost! Perhaps, his parents came over to watch the Sinulog Festival. The carousel route was not too far from where they were at the moment. And perhaps, he slipped away and got lost into the thick crowd.


    "Leo, let''s report this child first to the nearest police station. Perhaps, his parents are now so scared and worried sick for him," she said while looking up at him.


    "We would miss the bus and the boat going to our place. Aside from that, our money is just enough for the bus and the taxi fare. It is not even enough to buy food for our breakfast. The little amount left from the bill was already used in buying your home medications," Leo explained as he was the one who processed and paid their hospital bill.


    As soon as he was done explaining, a taxi pulled over and opened the window.


    "North Bus Terminal," said Leo as he looked at the driver.


    "Okay." He closed the window and went towards the back of the car to open up the trunk.


    Leo picked up their travel bags hurriedly and placed it in the trunk. When he glanced at his wife over his shoulder to tell her supposedly to climb into the car ahead, he saw her instead, picking up the child into her arms. He was horrified! She was not allowed to lift up heavy objects yet. He wanted to protest, afraid that they may be sued for kidnapping once the parents will find him. Yet, he was also afraid that the child may not fell in good hands. What if a syndicate member will find him? What if a fellow beggar will pick him up? Or, if this child happened to be from a prominent family as he seemed to be, wouldn''t he be traded for a ransom?


    Having no time to argue or think about it, he picked up the child from his wife''s arm while he assisted her in her seat. His nervousness and hesitance eased up a little when he saw the joy in his wife''s expression. Perhaps, the joy that this child would give them, may prolong her life''s expectancy. He was too afraid that the mass in his wife''s breast would be malignant. Too many women in their town died of breast cancer. Few of them were even his relatives. He just couldn''t forget what her doctor said on the day they decided to have the surgery.


    "Decide now while the mass still looks benign. Or else, it will be too late. However, we will confirm it once the biopsy result would be released."


    So, it meant that her wife was not safe from cancer yet.

 Chapter 6 - The Lost Child 2

    After three hours of land travel, they finally arrived in a ferry terminal that would bring them to their hometown. Another three hours more on the sea and three hours by bus, they would finally reach their destination.


    Issa did not feel any exhaustion and fatigue during the long hours of travel. She was too excited to go home with the boy that would soon call her ''nanay'' because at her forties, she never had a child of her own. They had been to different local midwives who got their title, not through their degrees in school, but through their innate gift and skills in making women conceive. They were also the one who assisted in deliveries especially to those who lived in far-flung barrios.


    Fortunately, her husband did not leave her nor stained their marriage with infedility despite her failure to give him a child. All their lives were spent in their farms and in raising poultries and livestocks. And during weekends, they would go down to the market in town to sell their crops.


    Though she and most of her siblings lived in the same province, they hardly see each other because they lived in a mountainous barangay, too far away from the rest of them. They chose to live here after their marriage since the land where they settled was Leo''s inheritance from his parents. He was an only child so the ownership of all the land properties his parents accumulated was solely passed down to him.


    Issa was only reunited to her family everytime they gathered together during important family events like weddings and burials. Thus, when they introduced Ajie many years later to them as their son, no one doubted it. They also knew how much they wanted to have a child and perhaps, this child was an answer to their long time supplication.


    Once they reached home, Leo hurriedly prepared their meals especially that the child was perhaps hungry already. He did not wake up during the travel, perhaps due to too much exhaustion in crying the night before.


    "Issa, how come he was not noticed by the thick crowd when he started crying? I''m sure there were security forces dispatched all throughout the parade routes," Leo finally voiced out one of the many questions in his mind.


    "I''m also wondering about that. What shall we do now, Leo?" She gave him a quick glance while she took off the child''s clothes and changed it into a new one.


    Luckily, she saved the clothes she bought ahead during those many times she thought she was pregnant. She even washed it all and pressed it before they left for her surgery since she saw it being dusted on a baby''s closet while cleaning it out. Fortunately, she bought big ones so that their child could still fit into it when he or she would grow up. Everytime they went down to the town, she would always buy baby things and accessories. It even became her obsession as they had been into countless false pregnancy alarms. And she was amazed at the quantity of the clothes she had bought! It was as if she had prepared it ahead for Ajie.


    "We will report it to our barangay captain so that he will pass on the news to the media."


    Issac nodded sadly. She did not want the child to be taken away from them but how could she hold him back from his real family?


    "How will we call him, Leo?" she asked while she racked her brain on what name she was going to give him.


    "Let''s ask the child. At his age, a child can already tell his name."


    Just then, the child moved and open his eyes. He looked around and a sense of fear flickered in his eyes. He stared at both of them and then he cried.


    "Mommy! Daddy!"


    Issa hurriedly picked him up and hugged him. His pitiful and sad cry ripped her heart apart that she also cried.


    "Don''t worry, son. Nanay and Tatay is here."


    Leo suddenly got nervous and he felt he must do something to make him stop crying but did not know what and how.


    "Leo, the food! The child must be so hungry now," Issa yelled at him who stood up stupefied in watching them.


    "I see... " He then hurried up to the kitchen and soon, he was back with a plate of rice, fried egg and a bowl of soup.


    Dancing to pacify the child, she immediately let him look at the food Leo brought for him.


    "Baby, are you hungry?"


    The child wriggled in her arms and blurted something that made them happy.


    "Ajie wants to eat. Ajie is hungry!"


    Issa and Leo looked at each other and they started laughing!


    "He already knows how to talk, Leo!


    And his name is Ajie," exclaimed Issa happily as she helped the child into their wooden dining table.


    "Yes. I''ll get some fruits in the farm. Perhaps, he likes to eat fruits."


    Issa then turned to the child, "Baby, do you eat fruits?"


    The child nodded after she fed him with a spoonful of rice and egg.


    "What certain fruits do you like?" she asked again, rejoicing in the fact that the child answered her.


    "Ajie eats banana, apple, grapes and strawberries!"


    Issa was stunned! Where on earth would she get that? It could only be bought in the city.


    She was sure of her speculation now. This child, indeed, came from a wealthy family because average people would seldom buy these fruits due to its high cost. And the fact that he addressed his parents as "mommy" and "daddy". Local folks rather let their children call them "mama" and "papa".


    The first few days were really difficult for the couple. Their hearts broke many times every time they were awaken by the child''s sobbing. He would usually cry when he was sleepy and would suddenly cry in the middle of his sleep. During daytime, they could prevent him from crying since they would bring him to the farm and let him see the cows, carabaos, goats and chickens. They also brought him to the creek, spring and waterfalls while riding in a horse. But they could not spare him from his loneliness during the night. To avoid this, they would always make him tired in any activites so that he could have a long and undisturbed sleep.


    Many years passed by then, and Ajie grew up as a brilliant, young boy who excelled in his class and in every competition he was joining. While the truth about his personality was not kept from him, Ajie had loved his foster parents as his own just as how the couple loved, cared and accepted him as their real son.


    After his high school graduation, Leo and Issa decided to sell some of their properties and deposited it in the bank under Ajie''s name.


    "Son, go to your uncle in Cebu and build your future there. The city can offer you better opportunities to be successful. Use the money wisely for your education."

 Chapter 7 - The Lost Child 3

    Ajie stared at her in disbelief. How could he leave them alone in this mountain? They were already old and no one would take care of them.


    "No, nay. I will not leave you. There is a state college in town so I will be enrolling there."


    Issa shook her head as she held his son.


    "Listen to us, son. Your future is much brighter there. Look for the best university. We would be happy to see you successful someday."


    Leo stepped in as he heard his son''s reluctance.


    "Son, don''t worry about us. I have asked one of my relatives to stay with us and be your mom''s companion while I will be in the farm during daytime." He then patted his shoulder, assuring him that they would be alright even if he would be away.


    None of them knew that few months after they took Ajie into their home, someone came to their barangay captain to look for a lost child. It so happened that their barangay captain was a relative and he knew how the child brought joy into their lonely home.


    While he was on the farm supervising his farmers, their Brgy. Captain who was his friend and distant cousin of her wife came over.


    "Leo, the man left me a calling card of the father. I will leave this matter to both of you to decide. I think they are addressing their search to all the barangays in the country. I can''t imagine how much this child''s parents spend in looking for him, not to mention their anxiety. You can call them anytime should you wish to return the child."


    The horse which his cousin rode on had already galloped away but Leo was still pinned at his position, staring at the card as he got lost in his thoughts.


    He thought about his wife''s excitement and happiness as she thought about another toy she would buy the next weekend. He thought about his own joy as the child hopped on to his shoulder laughing as he ran around the lawn. And that inexplicable joy everytime the child called him, ''tatay''.


    Ajie grew up as the darling of their home and now his wife was finally setting him free. He knew that the amount of money they had acquired through the sales of their properties for his education would not be enough to pay their sin in hiding the child. He knew very well that he came from a very prominent family. He may not know the extent of his power in the business world nor his status in the higher society but his name alone was frequently heard in the radio networks he was listening while working in the farm.


    Ajie was already teary - eyed. How could he live away from them? He was already used to the comfort of their lavish display of love and care.How would he ever survive alone?


    "Son, all these time, I am praying that may God will allow your path to cross with your true family."


    Leo choked upon hearing this. He knew all these time who his true family was. He even kept the calling card safely into his safety box. He may had been haunted with his guilt many times but he always lost the courage everytime he held the child in his arm. And now Ajie had grown up into a brilliant, young man and had already graduated in high school. It was already too late to tell the truth. He could no longer imagine his anger and hatred if he would know the sin that he had kept all along. He didn''t want him to harbor hatred in his heart against him for stealing away the luxurious life he should have been enjoying in the comforts of his real home.


    The only way he thought he could pay it was to give him a bright future by sending him into the best university. Issa did not know about his dark secret but the idea of selling their properties for his education and sending him away were his.


    Ajie''s tears were already falling silently as his mom mentioned about his real family. He knew about the story of how they found him sleeping in a bench few hours after the festival ended but how could a three-year - old child remember it all?


    "You and Tatay are my family, Nay. Please, don''t mention them anymore."


    Leo always hated that topic whenever Issa brought it up. He just couldn''t bear the guilt. Hearing it again now, he butted in to end it up.


    "How I wish you were our true son, Jie. Nevertheless, we never thought you were not our own. We would be happy to see you succeed in the future so pack your things now so that you will not be late for the enrollment. We will leave early in the morning. I''ll bring you to your uncle and you will be staying with them."


    Ajie nodded and as he turned back to his mom, she was already holding her tears back. When he pulled her towards him in a tight hug, she instantly broke into a sob.


    "I don''t want you to be away from us, son, but we also want you to be successful."


    Ajie couldn''t hold it anymore and he was now crying with her. "Don''t send me away, please, nay."


    Issa shook her head. "No, son. You have to go."


    "Ajie, this is for your own good. You can always come home if you miss us," said Leo as he stood up and pulled him gently to his room to pack his things up.


    After packing up all the necessary things that he would bring, he lied down in his bed wondering what happened thirteen years ago.


    ___


    13 Years Ago


    All the news portals of the Philippine Television Networks were broadcasting about the Musical Fireworks Display that would mark the end of the festivities.


    "Cebu City Councilor Arvin Mendoza, over-all chairperson of Sinulog Foundation Inc. (SFI), announced that a thirty-minute musical firework display will mark the end of the festivities on January 20."


    "This segment, sponsored by a top luxury yacht builder company in the world, is worth P2M. This is on top of a synchronized fireworks display to be initiated by three large malls in Cebu City."


    Mr. Angelo Lopez, the sponsor of tonight''s musical fireworks display checked in a nearby five-star star hotel with his family to witness the event. While he and his wife got occupied with the dignitaries who accommodated them, the nannies of her two children ran outside as the first firework display erupted into the sky, bringing the children along with them.


    The eldest child who was three years old, suddenly got afraid of the strong sound of the explosion as the firecrackers zoomed into the sky. His nanny, who was carried away by the frenzy of the moment and the squealing of excitement and thrill as the firecrackers broke into beautiful figures and shapes, forgot about the child she was holding. It was already too late when she realized it. There were thousands of people crowding the place which even posed a high risk for a stampede. How could she find the child who ran and got lost into the thick crowd and in the darkness of the night?


    Due to her fear, she did not return right away, allowing the child to go farther away from her. The firework display had already long ended and all the private vehicles were jamming up in all the streets, reducing the number of people who were filling up the grounds. But still, she could not find him. Shaking terribly due to her fear of losing the first child of a multi-billionaire, she decided to escape for her dear life.


    It was also too late for Mr. Lopez to realize that his son was lost. Too late in requesting for a troop to disperse in all areas to find the child.


    If only those men inspected all the children who lied down on the street sides or in the benches, they could have found the child. But there were too many beggars lying down in these areas and these scenes were not new. How could a child of a business tycoon lie down in a dirty street? These men may have forgotten that they were looking for a three -year- old child who could fall asleep anywhere, even while sitting down.

 Chapter 8 - In The City

    After falling on his mom''s neck who walked him up towards the front porch, Ajie took a last look around their place. The vast stretch of farmlands sprawling on the slopes and valleys, the thick foliage of towering trees marking up the horizon, the peeping golden sun on the grey skies and the fruit and vegetable garden on one side of their house were things that he would miss once he would be in the city.


    Without turning back to his mom who was holding back her urge to cry, he walked ahead of his father with a heavy heart towards the waiting horse his father had saddled ahead. Soon, they disappeared into the path beneath the thick rows of trees heading downwards to the highway. From there, they would wait for a bus that would take them to the port. And from the port, they would take a ferry boat to take them to the Northern part of Cebu. Then, from there, they would take another bus ride towards the city and then a taxi or a PUJ to the place of Issa''s siblings.


    Their place was situated on a remote district of the city near the shore where they could still take a walk in the morning or at twilight to enjoy the beauty of nature. There were only few houses in their area and one of them were owned by Issa''s brother and another one by her sister Elsa. One of their neighbors was a close family friend of Elsa. They had an only daughter, about Ajie''s age and her name was Allie.


    Upon the arrival of Leo and Ajie, Elsa held a welcome dinner for them. They had also invited some of Elsa''s relatives who lived in the next district. To grace the event, there were singing and dancing while the men were indulging in alcoholic drinks. Tonight, these drunkards could drink all they want, knowing that Leo, who sponsored the night''s drinking spree, owned a vast farmland in a faraway place.


    It was a moonlit night and their whole place was beautifully illuminated with the moon''s silver light. The distant water on the sea which spread beyond these few houses were glittering in silver hues as the golden lamp in the sky cast its silver light towards the mangrove - lined area.


    During these nights, Allie would always take a stroll along the shoreline, far beyond their place and into the quiet and unpopulated area. She would sit by a rock to watch the sparkling waves as it slap into the edges of the shore, allowing herself to get lost into her thoughts while basking herself in the moonlight. She always did this especially when she had to do a brainstorming for a piece of article she was required to write in school or when she had to prepare for a speaking engagement.


    As she went out of their house, she could see their merrymaking, something which didn''t surprise her anymore. Almost every weekend, they were always holding a lawn party which would always result to commotion or fighting.


    She watched them for a while before she went ahead but suddenly, she seemed to be dragged backward when he a heard a deep, baritone voice breaking up into a beautiful song. She turned towards the owner of the voice and her eyes were drawn to him as if it were caught with an adhesives she just couldn''t easily pull away.


    She had not seen him yet before as Ate Elsa''s guest. For the many years they had been close neighbors, she was already familiar with all her relative''s faces. Some of them even became her friends. And some became her suitors.


    He was tall and lean and his features were delicate. His skin was fair and his eyes were soft and gentle. As he closed his eyes and drew his hand which was holding the microphone away from his mouth, her heart seemed to skip a beat. And his beautiful voice wrapped up her heart into a wonderful feeling she couldn''t explain. Perhaps because, a mellow love song would always find her carried away.


    "Allie! "


    Her reverie was cut when her name was called. She got awkward. She knew she was caught looking at them.


    "Alie, come and meet my guest!"


    Ate Elsa came sprinting towards her. She was perhaps ten years younger than her mother and ten years older than her but she was their closest neighbor who was also friendly towards her family. Thus, she also became her close friend. And she was her constant companion every moonlit nights when she went out into the shore.


    "No, te. You have too many guests tonight," resisted Allie when Ate Elsa pulled her towards her house.


    "It''s just my brother and my nephew.


    You are already acquainted with the rest of them," insisted Elsa, being a little drunk already.


    "I''ll meet your guest next time."


    Perhaps, Elsa was reminded that Alie never liked to mingle in a gathering like that, so, she no longer insisted.


    "See you later," said as she dismissed her.


    Alie proceeded to her favorite spot in the shore. Tonight, the moon seemed brighter as it slowly sailed into sky, concealing the presence of various stars with its brightness. She thought about that young man who was Ate Elsa''s guest and wondered who he was but then she forgot all about him when she started singing the song he just sang.


    Meanwhile, at the dinner party...


    A man in his fifties stood up and slammed his fist into the table, overturning it afterwards and sending the empty bottles of alcoholic drinks into the ground. He glared at Leo angrily who was staring back at him, wondering what flared him up.


    "Do you think I have forgotten what you did? Are you happy now that you have won my Issa back then? And are you here to boast for your son? "


    Ramil, Elsa''s husband came over to coax him up, feeling ashamed of his behaviour towards his innocent brother-in - law. But as soon as he approached the man who was the husband of one of her wife''s relative, his face was instantly met by a strong first. Outraged by his sudden assault when he did him no fault, Ramil rose up to retaliate and send back a fist into the man''s face causing trickles of blood dripping down his face and nose.


    The man''s son, who was playing cards with his cousins at another table, stood up without asking who was at fault. He threw a punch directly into his uncle Ramil''s face.


    Rod, the first son of Elsa and Ramil, saw this. He just couldn''t watch his faultless father being mauled. He also stood up to defend his father and gave them powerful kicks...


    The commotion got worse as the cousins were fighting against themselves for defending one of their elderlies. Their sympathies were divided even without knowing the root cause of the trouble. The scene had already became bloody before someone called the barangay police to stop them.


    Ashamed of what had happened, Elsa hurriedly pulled Leo and Ajie into the back of the house and let Leo get inside through the back door.


    "Leo, get inside your room and lock it! I will take Ajie out, "  demanded Elsa nervously as she held the trembling Ajie towards the shore.


    "Hurry up! Let''s get out of here," said Elsa as she ran fast, holding Ajie who was also running nervously behind her.

 Chapter 9 - Not A Safe Place

    Allie got startled when suddenly Ate Elsa appeared at her side, gasping for breath. Behind her was a young man about her age, and exactly the one whom she saw singing a while ago.


    "What happened?" asked Allie, her eyes shifted from Ate Elsa then to the man who silently stood beside her.


    "It''s Ben, starting a bloody fight again and Ramil is badly mauled. I need to go back, Allie, I am just taking Ajie out from there. He''s not used to this kind of scene and he must be terrified. I''m leaving him to you, Al. Please take care of him."


    With this, she ran back again and Allie was left staring into her back until she disappeared from her sight. She, then, turned to Ajie who remained standing silently beside her, staring blankly at the direction of her auntie.


    "You''re name is Ajie, am I right?"


    Allie broke the silence, seeing that Ajie seemed to have no plan of speaking up.


    He nodded while giving her a quick glance. "Yes."


    There was silence once again and Allie became uncomfortable.


    "Hmmn... My name is Allie, short for Allyza."


    "Thanks."


    Allie stared at him, wondering why he was too silent. Was it because he got so scared of the incidence or because he was just dumb!


    "Please, sit down," she motioned for him to sit down beside her on the rock.


    Ajie hesitated, feeling agitated to sit down close to her. Yet, thinking that it would also be an insult to turn her offer down, he finally gathered his courage to settle himself beside her.


    "Why are you here? This is such a dangerous place," Ajie finally spoke up.


    Allie laughed, to his amazement. He wanted to ask why but he was afraid that doing so would be an insult to her so he just kept his silence.


    "Ajie, don''t get me wrong. I am just amused that you finally talk. Nowadays, it''s so seldom to find the so - called ''men of few words''."


    "Are there no cases of rape and murder in this place?" he asked again, ignoring her comment.


    Witnessing the bloody fight in his aunt''s place, aggressions such as rape and murder couldn''t be slightly


    regarded.


    "Of course. Horrible cases of rape and murder happened in this place before. Not to mention that this place is also a drug den," she answered as she gazed into his gentle and worried eyes, smiling weakly.


    "Then you should not come here alone."


    "Look over there! " Allie pointed her finger towards a tower with a red light.


    "Few meters away from here, there are factories of computer parts, electronic components and of irons and steels. The owner of these companies supports the improvement of this district especially the road developments and the proposed erection of a new bridge that would address the city''s current problem of worsening traffic jams. His presence in this place will not only provide the solution of road congestions but is also providing solutions to the hundreds of jobless individuals through employment. His condition is to protect his workers especially the women who would be passing this way since most of them come from this place. So, the security department of the city government assigns police patrol officers day and night. The red light indicates that the security camera is on."


    "So do you mean that before you will come here, you will look first for the red light?"


    "Of course," Allie smiled while Ajie sighed in relief.


    "You''re on vacation?" Allie diverted their topic, now that he seemed to be already comfortable with her.


    "My parents want me to enroll in a big university so I''ll be staying with uncle or auntie."


    Allie gave her a pursed smile. "Just look for a boarding house near the university. Stay away from this place."


    "What about you? Your family? My relative''s family?" Ajie couldn''t help wondering why she seemed to imply that they were safer in this place than him.


    Allie chuckled out loudly. "I grow up in this place and most of the people here know me, my family and your family. You are new here and the newbies are always a threat to the drug monsters here, thinking that they are spies."


    Ajie fixed his gaze at her, contemplating about what he should do. He just realized that city life was not all about success and opportunities but could also be a hell. Too different from the peaceful haven in the mountains.


    "Allie, Ajie!" Ate Elsa''s voice ended out the seriousness of their topic as they both turned to her.


    "How''s the commotion, Te?" asked Allie calmly as if it was just a simple incident.


    "It''s over, finally. The cops came over and Rod brought Ramil to the hospital... " Elsa sighed, knowing that this was only a temporary pause to their current contention.


    The irony of it was that these drunkards never learned their lessons. Next weekend and all the coming weekends, they would be gathering again for another drinking session. And as expected, they wound end up killing each other again.


    "Auntie, what did that man mean when he said something about mom?" He looked at her intently, unblinking.


    Auntie Elsa smiled. "When your mom was young, Ben was one of his stubborn suitors but Issa chose your father, instead. It took him a long while before he was able to move on. And everytime he got drunk, he would always swear that he would take his revenge once their path would cross."


    "I see."


    "Ate, am I right in saying that Ajie is not safe here?" Allie just wanted a confirmation to make her suggestion valid to his own analysis.


    Elsa did not answer right away. She was still thinking if it was, indeed, right to tell him the truth.


    "Jie, we must let your father leave early. It''s so sad to say that the most dangerous people in this place are our relatives." Elsa felt so sorry about this but there was nothing she could do.


    "Allie, can you please help Ajie enroll in college tomorrow and can you also help him find a safe place to stay?"


    ___


    Hours later, when they were all settled into their bedrooms, Allie peeped into the hole in her bedroom wall. She could clearly see Ate Elsa''s lawn due to the bright moon rays lighting up their place.


    Just as she expected, a revenge was coming soon. A man came in with a black knapsack and sneaked into the main door. With a gadget in his hand, he was able to open the door quickly, completely eliminating even the slightest sound. She watched closely until the man came out and disappeared into the dark mangroves.


    Early before daybreak later, the sound of the police cars awakened everyone in the neighborhood. As soon as Allie went out of the door, Ate Elsa ran to her, crying.


    "Ally, what shall we do? The police just found a bag full of drug


    packets in Ajie and Leo''s things."


    Allie quickly moved her eyes to look for Ajie. And there she saw him, standing so pale beside a police officer. Then, she heard the officer''s command.


    "Explain yourselves in the station and go with us right now."

 Chapter 10 - The Spy

    The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) was created for the efficient and effective law enforcement of all the provisions on dangerous drugs or its precursors and essential chemicals. It is the implementing arm of the Dangerous Drug Board (DDB), the policy-making and strategy-formulating body in the planning and formulation of policies and programs on drug prevention and control.


    The Director General who was currently heading PDEA that year, was based in Cebu. Dino, his bestfriend''s son whom he took into his home after he graduated in high school, had now passed his training as a police officer. Under his influence, he had him assigned as a challenge, in a special task force, the Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operation Task Force (PNP-AIDSOTF).


    The district of Kamelyo was already long reported as a drug den. There were already several attempts to trace down the powerful men behind these illegal trading but all ended out as futile due to the strong protection from higher sources.


    It is in this place that Dino and his team were appointed to this great challenge of ending and clearing out the long time illegal business in this place.


    Inwardly, he was happy with the appointment. He had someone to help him discreetly in tracing down these trash of the society who had already destroyed many homes and lives of those willing victims like the users, pushers and the mules.


    Allie became his bestfriend during his last year in high school since he was adopted by a teacher who happened to be Allie''s coach in writing. She was not just Dino''s teacher but was also his aunt. He came to live with her when his mother died in a vehicular accident when he was young.


    He met Allie when she was still a freshman. Since she spent most of her weekends in their house for the coaching, they became close to each other and became good friends.


    After his graduation, his aunt became sick and eventually died. Her bestfriend, who was now the PDEA''s Director General, took him to his home. He was sent to college and as a tribute to his kindness, he took up a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice.


    Having known ahead of the wickedness of the district of Kamelyo through Allie, he rejoiced secretly. Her place was situated in the borders of Kamelyo, the direct route by the shoreline towards the factories that provide employment for the people.


    During summer vacations, Allie regularly worked in one of these factories. Brilliant students like her were given special assignments as the company''s program to help those aspiring students to have the financial means during school days.


    And because some workers were mostly Ate Elsa''s relatives and some were her acquaintances through them, she knew the dark secrets behind the production of these companies. Her knowledge about these evil transactions in the whole district of Kamelyo was the bright hope of Dino to get a rank promotion. Most of all, to make his uncle, Director General Alfonso, proud and happy for him.


    ___


    Meanwhile, Leo and Ajie were shivering in fear as they sat down before the desk of an interrogation officer.


    "Do you know that the total weight of these drug packets inside this bag is 80 grams?" The officer fixed his gaze firmly on the frightened looks of the father and son.


    They both shook their heads vigorously. Anyone could tell through their expressions that they were innocent. Leo''s face had already turned red. He wanted to cry but he did not want to frighten his son more. He regretted the day he decided to send him here.


    It was not enough. The next statement of the officer scared them to death.


    "Do you know that the law stated it that a penalty of life imprisonment to death and a fine ranging from P500,000 to P10 million shall be imposed upon any person, who, unless authorized by law, will be found possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamines hydrochloride or shabu? "


    Ajie almost fainted when he heard this. He was here to find success and build a good future and not to rot his dreams inside a prison cell. Leo could not hold his urge to cry anymore.


    "I''m sorry, son. If only I knew that this would happen, we should have not come. We are here to find you the best university... "


    Ajie did not say a word but his tears were running fast down his face. His knuckles had already turned white in his effort to stop his trembling.


    "Sir... " The tension in the atmosphere was halted when Dino walked into the room. He gazed into the eyes of the two innocent victims who were crying silently and then to the interrogation officer.


    "Please follow me. " Dino said as he walked out of the room, leaving the father and son wondering what was happening.


    Their forlorn figure made them look like desperate victims waiting for their verdict of a capital punishment.


    To the officer''s surprise, the whole team of a special task force were already gathering inside a large function room. Officers of the higher ranks were there. What shocked him the most was the presence of the Director General.


    "We will be planning for a major operation tonight..." One of the officers answered his unspoken questions, seeing his bewildered look.


    ___


    During that night of the commotion in Elsa''s place, Dino and his team together with the higher and major task forces with the presence of his uncle, Director General Alfonso, were finalizing their execution plan in the arrest of the people behind this great drug syndicate. For many years they had ruled and employed the people of Kamelyo as their troops of drug mules under the cloak of their designation as factory workers and administrators. The plants which manufactured computer parts, electronic components and metallurgical elements had a mega laboratory of illegal drugs, connecting one building to another, underneath its massive buildings. The protection of their passage routes along the shoreline, which the company owners asked, was only an act of pretense to drive away the suspicion of the anti - drug forces.


    Also during that night, Allie sent Dino a message about her prediction that Ben, who held a high position in the company , would not delay in sending his revenge towards the man who reopened his old wound caused by a failure of winning the woman he loved before. Of course, Dino would value any of her request. Not only as a friend who also desired for his success, but as the main lead in pointing out the main culprit of the great crime which was long happening in their place.


    While some of Dino''s men were hiding beneath the thick rows of mangroves to capture the bearer of that bag of drug packets, Allie placed her spy camera into the hole.

 Chapter 11 - The Escape

    "Dino, would the ''friends'' know that I am one of those who send you the information? " Allie referred these people from the black market as friends.


    "You have been living in that place since you were a child and all the people in the community are known to protect each other since most of them are related through kinship."


    "They do not know about our friendship, as well, since I never went to your place. You were just a freshman when our friendship started and I was in fourth year. Eversince I move to uncle''s house, we only communicated through phone and social media accounts in pseudo names. And though we meet sometimes, they couldn''t possibly relate it to our connection. "


    Allie was a little relieved but she just couldn''t simply take her worries away.


    "Do you have relatives working in the plant? " An idea came to Dino while he was also thinking hard if Allie could really be spared from this trouble.


    "Yes, from my mother''s side."


    "Are they your neighbors?"


    Suddenly, Allie''s face lit up. Why had she thought about this only now?


    "They are renting in Kuya Ben''s boarding house near the factory."


    She enthusiastically replied, thinking that this fact could get her out of their suspicion. Who would sell out a good relative?


    "If he knows that they are your relatives, they would not suspect you. " Dino also sighed in relief.


    "What about the latest video? Won''t they wonder why it is taken in close proximity to the object? "


    Dino also considered this. He knew that he couldn''t disregard this matter knowing that he could never eliminate the possibility of betrayal from any of the anti - drug team. If ever there was any traitor from the team, they would dig out the possible sources of information.


    In a criminal case, the prosecution must disclose information that forms the basis of its case. While normally prosecutors have to disclose all witnesses who are relevant to the case , whether or not those witnesses will testify, they often don''t have to reveal the identity of confidential informants.


    "Allie, I will never drag you into this. I will set up false leads since we also sent spies into these plants in the disguise of suppliers, messengers and workers."


    "But to be safe for the mean time, why don''t you take a vacation for a while then transfer to a bigger university in another city?"


    Kamelyo, a name branded by its local residents, was one of the districts of a certain smaller city of Cebu. The whole metropolitan area consisted of 7 neighboring cities and 6 municipalities and the provincial capital is Cebu City.


    "That''s a good idea but how can I support my studies in a bigger city? "


    Allie replied sadly since financial matters would be a hindrance to the plan.


    "I will ask uncle to help you with his recommendation for a scholarship program for you. Send me your papers and we will help you with the processes," Dino assured her.


    He went ahead. "Allie, I''m afraid that if your whole family will leave, it would create some suspicion. But I promise to protect your parents and let them leave before the raid."


    After talking to Dino, Allie discussed this matter to her parents.


    "Where will you go? I and your father grew up in this city! " Her mother started to panic, too scared for the life of her daughter.


    "The possibility of being traced is very less, ma. " She tried to comfort her, being guilty herself for doing it.


    Yet, she understood that if no one would be willing to take the risk to solve a crime, more and more lives would be destroyed.


    "Start finding a place to stay in the big city so that you can move as soon as possible. " Her father was already angry with her stupidity.


    "Ma, I have a plan. I want to spend my vacation in the place of Ate Elsa''s sister. Kuya Leo and his son will be secretly released today and will be sent back home. If you will allow me, I will go."


    Allie''s parents were reluctant at first but having nowhere to go, they consented in the end. Besides, Elsa had already been their close friend for a long time and that she had also told them many good things about her sister''s family.


    Dino planned the exit of Leo and Ajie carefully so as not to create any suspicion . Allie also announced her plan to her neighbors, especially Ate Elsa, that she would be enrolling in a bigger university and that she would be leaving as early as now to apply for summer job the university was offering. None of them suspected that she took a bus, instead, that would take her to the northern port of Cebu.


    Molave, the home of Ajie''s family, was like a hidden paradise in Allie''s eyes. The magnificent views of hills and valleys, of fountains and waterfalls, of green farmlands and colorful gardens brought her peace and relaxation her city life had never given her.


    Because of her industry, her enthusiasm to help around the household chores and her excitement to help Ajie''s routines in the farm, she was instantly loved by his parents. Not only that, they saw that Ajie was happier.


    They heard him laugh hard at Allie''s simple jokes. They heard him giggle over petty things. They saw how his eyes flickered as they rode on a horse together.


    The moonlit nights in the garden, the afternoons by the waterfalls and the mornings in the fountains were witnesses of a beautiful affection that blossomed in the young hearts of these lovely creatures.


    When the opening of classes started, they both went back to the city and enrolled together. They stayed in the same boarding house which accepted only few student lodgers, though their rooms were separate. Nevertheless, Allie cooked food for both of them and they ate together. Whoever of them had more time, would do the laundry for both of them, press their uniforms or wash their dishes.


    Things went out so well and they became each other''s shoulders to lean on. Not long after, their friendship grew stronger and bloomed into a beautiful relationship.


    Meanwhile, Kamelyo was cleaned out from all illegal activities. Those troops of drug mules, who swallowed hundreds of drug packets to transport it to different places, were all arrested including those drug lords who were mere frontiers of more powerful individuals who comprised the massive drug cartel.


    For a week, all broadcasting networks and tabloids created a great noise upon the capture of 12 foreigners and 3 local citizens who were sentenced to life imprisonment and a fine of P10 M each.


    The mega lab, which operated underneath the big plants, where found to have plenty of machineries which could manufacture large volumes of illegal drugs. There were also tons of unpacked drugs which were yet undisposed.


    Among those who were arrested were Ben and many of Elsa''s relatives. Some were also Allie''s maternal relatives who worked in that factory.


    ___


    Two years after, when Ajie turned to 18, he proposed a marriage to Allie. When his parents and Elsa''s family came to their house for the engagement dinner, Allie''s mother fainted. When she felt a little better later, her rough words made Allie felt sicker than how she felt the moment she saw their unwanted guests.


    "Allie, you''re still too young, and besides, we could never accept anyone from this family. You know very well that they are all uneducated and are thorns of the society. What would be your future in their hands? " Blinded by her anger, she scolded her in front of Ajie''s family.


    Ajie''s family just held their silence as they listened to all the degrading words Allie''s parents ranted towards her. Though not thrown towards them directly, her words were like bee stings, hurting them so badly.Of course, they knew their sentiments. It''s because all the chaos and riots, which stabbed their hearts in fear for many years, were all caused by Elsa''s relatives. They wrongly accused them that the blood of the trouble makers were naturally flowing in their veins all throughout their generation. Ajie was not an exemption.


    Allie trembled in shame upon hearing this. She knew that Ajie''s family was different and that they lead a noble life. They held a high reputation in the whole district of Molave and throughout the neighboring barangays as good - natured and generous family who owned hectares of farms and land properties.


    Feeling shamed and insulted, Elsa''s family got angry. Just who was Allie''s mother to judge them? Her own relatives were even also among the drug mules!


    The tension between the two families intensified when other relatives of both sides meddled and interfered. Because of this, Allie''s family decided to move to other place later due to worsening threats between the families.


    Ajie and his parents were also greatly humiliated. Yet, out of respect, they talked to Allie sincerely before they left.


    "Allie, just hold on until you can be legally married without parental consent. You''ll parents will later understand that Ajie is not how they accused him to be. However, as of now, he is so greatly humiliated that he decides to continue his studies in Manila. Let''s just hope that everything will turn out fine for both of you in the future."


    Allie cried her heart out for many nights. How could she hold on to Ajie''s promise? He wasn''t even able to fight for her against her parents. How could he vouch for his strength to fight against temptations in the future? Yes, their union had been too sudden and so their story would also be short-lived.


    With such uncertainties and the contention between her families, she lost the courage to tell him that she was already two months delayed in her monthly period.

 Chapter 12 - How Could She Forget?

    "Allyza, where are you?" Mary''s angry voice pierced sharply into her ear.


    "Ma, I''m coming already!" Her last subject had just ended and she already knew the reason of her frantic calling.


    "Chloe is hungry already!" Her daughter brought so much joy into their home and her parents would become crazy everytime she cried.


    She knew it since her breasts were already engorged. At three months old, the milk she pumped ahead was no longer enough. After she graduated from her bachelor''s degree in Accountancy, she decided to take up Master''s Degree in Accountancy to be able to qualify for higher opportunities such as managerial positions or to be a Certified Public Accountant and others.


    When Ajie left, she had already graduated in college, being two years older than him. Though in her heart she was still wishing for him to come back as he promised, she no longer held high hopes. It was not impossible for Ajie to find someone else. Someone better than her. Someone prettier than her. She was still crying every night, remembering those times she was in his arms.


    The smile of her baby and her coos took out her stress in her difficult subjects but it draw back the pain her heart. Where was he now? How would he react if he would know that they had a child?


    While she held the lovely bundle in her arms as she breastfed her, she couldn''t stop her tears from falling. If only she was married to him, he would have been at her side at this moment. Chloe had the shape of his eyes and nose and the fairness of his skin. How could she forget?


    Her mother suddenly opened the door to check her beautiful granddaughter and she was caught crying!


    She did not say a word. She just closed the door again and left. That was not the first time Allie was being caught. There had been many times when both of her parents had to wake her up in her sleep because she was sobbing.


    There was even one time when they were forced to apologize because they were already worrying that her grief would affect the fetus in her womb.


    Her mind flew back to the time when she confessed about her pregnancy. It was the day before Ajie left for Manila.


    "No matter how many children are there in your womb, we will never allow you to get married with an  anti- social!"


    "Ma, Ajie is different! He is not like that!" She remembered herself crying so hard.


    If she couldn''t make them change their minds, Ajie would be leaving her forever. Her last trump card to win in the game was her pregnancy. But the revelation did not scare them of having an unwed daughter, of having a pregnant daughter out of wedlock. Even if it would bring shame to their reputation. She understood their anger but she believed that Ajie was wrongly condemned.


    Her thoughts also brought her again to that last night she was with him.


    ____


    It was already past midnight and the whole surroundings was quiet. The whole neighborhood was asleep and the lights were all turned off. The leaves of the mangroves which scattered all throughout the shoreline were stooping down, weakened by the sleeping world. The only sound which could be heard was the stiffled sobs of Allie as she peeped into the hole in one of the grids of her room.


    Just few meters away from her, she could clearly see the silhoutte of a man sitting down on a bench outside her closest neighbor''s house. The moon light was illuminating him as it cast its silver and golden hues all over the place. She knew he was waiting for her. She may want to go out and sneak towards him but was held out by her fear that she would cause another trouble to her family.


    Her heart was crying, no, it was profusely bleeding! She knew that before the clock would strike at four, he would be leaving ... forever.


    She was debating against her urge to ran towards him and hug him for the last time but she was also pinned down by her guilt. The more she restrained herself, the more intensed the pain became.


    When the short hand of her watch pointed to number two, she couldn''t hold back herself anymore. Just this once, just for the last time, she would go against her parents''s will! The time was ticking by and further delay would shorten their time to hold each other for the last time.


    She slowly got up and tiptoed towards the door, too careful not to make any sound. Come what may! If she would be caught this time, she would accept the consequence. Anyway, this would be the last time.


    She walked towards the other side of the house where a bench was placed in a corner between the wall of the main body of the house and the wall of the veranda. Ajie followed her right away and pulled her towards him in a very tight embrace. No one dared to talk, their heavy emotions stuck into their throats. Even a single and careless word that may escape from their mouths, would readily tear off the shield of the buckets of tears waiting to flood off.


    After a very long while of holding each other closely, Allie''s shoulders moved as she broke into a silent sob. Ajie hurriedly pulled out from her embrace and lifted her chin up, drowning her sobs into his mouth. He kissed her hardly as if it would be their last, tearing more her heart apart.


    "I''m sorry, I have to do this." His voice cracked as he whispered.


    "But someday I will come back. I may not know when but on that day, I would make it sure that I would already be worthy to ask for your hand."


    Alie wanted to protest and beg but she also knew they needed the distance to calm out the rising tension between their families.


    "Remember this, if you could not wait, I would take you from whoever may own you on the day that I''d be back."


    Her sobbing became louder as she could no longer contain the sense of loneliness which started to diffuse all over her grief-stricken soul.


    She threw her arms around his neck and kissed him back. How could she trust his promises? He couldn''t even tell when he would be coming back. And how could she survive a day without him? What if someone would come along and make him forget? Would he still remember her? Many things could even happen in just an hour, how much more in a day, in a month or in years?


    "I will wait, Jie. No matter how


    long."


    "Believe me, Allie. I love you and I''ll be keeping you in my heart forever."


    "Don''t say that. Sooner, those words would just be empty promises."


    "I keep my words."


    She knew he was sincere but who could stand firm against distance and time?


    Before she could answer, he sealed her lips once more and hugged her tight. Then, with one last tearful gaze as he held her close, he broke away from her and walked away without glancing back.


    She watched him as he slid into his black windbreaker before he put on his backpack. And she watched him as he slowly climbed into the hill and disappeared into the dark.


    The silence of the night intensified the sense of emptiness she now felt inside. If only she could count the days...and tell how long would she wait...

 Chapter 13 - What Happened To Chloe?

    Baby Chloe was so much pampered by the grannies. They always carried her up and rocked her to sleep to which Allie objected. Doing so would make her hooked up to it and she would not sleep by herself. But to their amazement, Chloe had such a good temper as a child. She was never a cry baby. She would only cry if her feeding would be too delayed everytime Allie would take longer in going home. She would just suck her fingers and make loud coos every time she must had felt the early pangs of hunger.


    A light tickle in her soles would make her giggle easily, cheering the adults extremely. And contrary to what Allie feared, she could sleep easily even when just placed in a still crib.


    Everytime the grannies saw it, they got so worried that they would hurriedly lift her up and allowed her to sleep in their arms. They would reason out that, anyway, infancy happen only once in a lifetime.


    At three months old, Chloe''s attention span was surprisingly long. She would stare attentively into a video of nursery rhymes or phonetics until the whole album was played. She could hold long eye contact when somebody would talk to her. And she would make coos or murmuring sounds when her nursery rhymes were played.


    "Sam, I can tell that our granddaughter is a gifted child." Mary told her husband, one time, as she saw her rolling and lifting her head up while lying down on her stomach.


    "She is. Her father would have been so happy to see her like that."


    Mary choked. She was now having guilt in denying her daughter the marriage since until this time, she could still see her crying hard secretly. And everytime she saw her wipe her tears away, her heart would break.


    Hearing her father see this, Allie looked away. She could have been happier to have the man she loved by her side in raising up a child.


    Unexpectedly, Chloe blurted out innocently.


    "Pa -pa - pa... " She was calling her papa?


    They looked at each other, and instead of being happy for that another advanced milestone of the child, they felt a sense of guilt. Allie saw that in their eyes, causing her sense of pain and bitterness return. She sprinted towards her room and bawled her eyes out!


    Her room was the sole witness of her pain and tears.


    An hour later, Chloe reached out her arms to her grannies and they instantly understood her message. She wanted to be carried out!


    Mary happily reached out to pick her up but in the next second, she and her husband saw that her lips turned pale! She then drew her short legs upward and curled up her toes. She seemed to be in pain but she only grimaced and did not cry. Few minutes after, she vomited the milk she had just sucked!


    "Maybe, she''s just overfed" Sam assured her when he saw that his wife was too frightened.


    "Perhaps... " She stuttered, feeling a sense of relief. She saw it her clearly. Chloe was in pain!


    "My love, does your tummy hurt?"


    She spoke in a childish way, thinking Chloe would understand.


    "Tell lola, please," she said while rocking her up in an upright position.


    "Lola" is the Filipino term of addresing a grandmother or any elderly while "Lolo" was for grandfathers and elderlies.


    Then again, her paleness  and the curling up of her lower extremeties returned. In the next second, she vomited again! This same  episode happened, not just twice but five times already!


    Mary panicked that she ran towards Allie''s room and knocked frantically while crying!


    "Allyza, come out! Hurry up!" She was already yelling out of fear.


    Allie came out with a startled expression upon seeing her mom''s scared look. She saw also her blouse which was soaked up with milk.


    "What''s happening!" she asked in a confused look.


    " It''s Chloe. Her stomach must be upset. She vomited five times already! " Mary answered nervously but before she could finish, Chloe vomited again.


    They noticed that her vomiting was in a projectile manner and her vomitus was so foul- smelling!


    Mary sprinted back towards Allie''s room and when she was back, she was already bringing a bottle of chamomile oil.


    An oil of chamomile was often used as an anti -flatulence to help relieve stomach pain and nauseousness.


    She then placed few drops in her palms then rubbed it. Then, she gently rub it at Chloe''s abdomen.


    She seemed to be relieved by it since she stopped vomiting for a while and the pink color of her lips returned.


    They were happy and Chloe smiled again. But their happiness did not last. Chloe vomited again and this time, the color of her vomitus was dark yellow!


    Allie put her down in the bed to clean her up and change her diaper. But Chloe held her hands and cried. She did not want to be put down. And this was not her usual attitude!


    So while the grannies held her up, she cleaned her up. When she opened her diaper, she saw a bright red blood clot in her scanty, loose stool which had an unusual characteriatics.


    "I''ll have her stool checked in the laboratory. I''ve heard that a bloody stool is one of the characteristics of an amoebiasis. "


    If only she understood, it was not just a simple bloody stool but a blood clot in the stool! It was not a good sign.


    Later, she felt that Chloe''s abdomen protruded slightly and it was hard. She percussed it using her fingertips and heard that it was tympanitic or with drum-like sounds.


    Something was really wrong! She also noticed that her vomitus smelled and looked like fecal materials! She knew that she needed to bring her right away to the hospital or else she would suffer severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance which could be fatal!


    However, her problem was that her money was not even enough for a taxi fare! Where would she get the amount needed for the admission downpayment?

 Chapter 14 - A Bigger Problem

    Gratitude is always the most difficult debt to pay. Because of this concept, Dino deposited a big, accumulated amount in Allie''s account right after his rank promotion. This was also one of his ways in sharing his blessings. Who would have ever thought that he would be adopted by a family who would give him a comfortable life? Not only that, he was also blessed with a friend who stood by him in all his troubles and now had helped him achieve his desired success.


    Allie may had not thought of any return but his money had greatly helped her in her advanced studies. It was also her source of fund when she had unexpectedly delivered via cesarean section . Chloe was in a breech presentation and never rotated properly despite the long labor until her heartbeats slowed down and the doctor was forced to do an emergency cesarean section.


    A breech presentation is a position wherein the buttocks or the feet of fetus will go out first during the delivery.


    Worsening the situation and the amount of the hospital bill, Chloe stayed for another five days due to an ABO incompatibility, a condition wherein a baby copies his father''s different blood type from the mother. Her blood type was O+ while Ajie was B+. This incompatibility would cause a yellow discoloration of the baby and would pose an adverse complication if unattended. The baby would then be treated and placed under a photolight therapy, a special type of light, other than sunlight, that would address the discoloration.


    On top of these expenses, her mother''s failing heart caused her a huge and scattered debts from their friends and relatives due to her frequent hospitalization. Her only guarantee was her meager salary from working in a finance department of a certain company.


    Due to the closure of the companies in Kamelyo, his father also lost his job. Not because he was one of the drug mules but because those were factories were closed down, making lots of pots overturned. Worst of all, those workers in these factories were blacklisted from all other companies due to the drug issues.


    Their decision to move to other place due to the contention between her family and Ajie''s relatives was another story, plunging further down their financial status due to the monthly rentals. She even tried every suggested means to increase breastmilk production in order to save. Every three hours in the office, she would pump her milk and save it in the ref. She also went home during lunch break to be able to breastfeed.


    Watching Chloe''s frequent projectile vomiting and thinking about her financial status, made her crazy. Would she ask help from Ajie''s parents? Where would she get the fund for her baby''s hospitalization? She was already wrapped up in debts. Her financial sinkage was just too low that even a taxi fare at that moment, was impossible.


    Baby Chloe was already getting weak and irritable. Seeing her like that and thinking about her helplessness, made her sink down in despair. She wailed long and hard until she finally made a decision to strip herself off from shame. She borrow money from all of the people she knew except Dino. She would do anything for her daughter.


    The stool exam she viewed online showed a result of an amoebiasis and she knew Chloe needed an immediate medical attention. Profused loose bowel movement or diarrhea would cause dehydration which would deplete the body''s electrolytes, a substance such as sodium and potassium which were responsible for the normal functions of the body. If unadressed, it would result to threatening imbalances, making it fatally dangerous.


    Picking up her phone, she prayed that God would touch a willing heart to provide them their immediate need. She typed a message to ask a favor to lend her the amount she needed and sent it to 72 people in her contact list!


    After few minutes all of her friends replied, telling her that they were also into some financial setbacks. To her amazement, a classmate in high school which she didn''t expect to be in her list, also replied.


    "I''m sorry, Lyz, I truly have nothing to lend you now but I will find time to visit you." All her classmates called her Lyza, if not her full name Allyza.


    There was also another message from a friend.


    "Okay, Al, just pass by at our place on your way to the hospital."


    She then called her mom to help her prepare and soon, they were already in the emergency room. She was only able to pay the taxi fare and the admission downpayment.


    Events turned so fast and soon Chloe''s abdomen protruded largely. The false stool exam result which showed an amoebiasis turned out to be a blessing. If It were not for her fear that Chloe would be dehydrated and that amoebiasis was not something to be taken lightly, she would have done   self - medication.


    However, the doctors initially assesed a bigger problem, far bigger than a simple amoebiasis. If only it was as simple as that, she wouldn''t have to worry. Yet, her signs and symptoms were compatible with an intestinal obstruction , a condition which needed immediate surgery. Her hard and protruding abdomen, her inability to pass down stools, her vomitus which composed of fecal materials, spoke it all.


    "Miss Allyza, we need to do a CT-Scan of the abdomen to see what really caused the obstruction in his intestines. Abdominal ultrasounds and x-rays failed to show it. We need to do it fast since we are already running out of time. Chloe may not be able to wait..."


    Hearing this made her want to roll in the floor and wail her grief and helplessness out. Where would she get the money? Even their fare in coming here was even borrowed. Looking at her mother who was already crying, she pretended to act strong. She should not show her grief, or else, she might have a heart attack. It would only add to her mountains of problems.


    She smiled at the doctor and the nurse who accompanied her.


    "Please arrange the schedule, ma''am"


    The hospital she chose may be a tertiary hospital but they didn''t operate CT-scans and MRI yet. All the patients who were required to do these procedures must get a booking yet from big hospitals and pay it in cash.


    She went out of the room to think and make an immediate plan but before she left, she glanced back at her daughter. She was already gasping and her abdomen was too big and shiny that it looked like it was about to rupture . Different tubings were attached to her. A nasal cannula for oxygen inhalation, a tubing inserted to her mouth down to her stomach which drained down her obstructed feces and tubings inserted through a needle for her IV fluids and antibiotics.


    Her cheerfulness as a three- month - old infant was gone. Her laughters and giggles which brought joy to their hearts were gone. Her eyes were closed, her breathing was labored. She even did not resist to any painful procedures like needle insertions for drawing of blood. Worst of all, her doctor told her that anytime she could leave...

 Chapter 15 - The Schedule

    Just as she stepped out of the room, Charlene, her classmate in high school who promised to visit her, came in.


    "Charlene! "


    "Lyz! "


    Allie cried hard right away at her display of sympathy. Since they arrived in this hospital, it had only been her parents who were around to support her. Yet, she could not cry in front of them. She could not tell the impending doom inside her heart due to fear and pain. She could not tell them any negative things that would scare them. She was just like a clown, smiling and laughing though her heart was bleeding.


    After telling her what happened, Charlene requested to see the child. The moment she saw her edematous or bloated body due to generalized infection medically called as "sepsis", she got so scared. She was also a mother herself, and to imagine her child in many tubings and gasping for breath, scared her to death. She hurriedly went out and cried with Allie.


    Just then, the nurse assigned to her baby approached them. Seeing that an important matter was likely to be discussed, she excused herself and went home. Allie was left alone again in carrying her burden.


    "Ma''am, I would just like to inform you that the schedule of baby Chloe''s CT scan will be at six in the afternoon. "


    Allie glanced up at the wall clock by the hallway. It was still


    2 pm. There were still four hours to wait and four hours of gasping and labored breathing for Chloe. That was just irreasonable! Every second and single minute mattered and her child''s life was hung by the thread!


    "Miss, can I talk at the personnel -in-charge of the CT scan? I would beg them to move the schedule earlier. Having nothing to do in the coming four hours would all the more shorten the chance of my child''s survival. " Tears were already streaming abundantly down her face.


    The pediatric surgeon who happened to hear them, asked the nurse to call the big hospital where the CT scan was scheduled, and let him talk to them. The nurse hurriedly did as requested. Negotiations were made and the schedule was finally moved to 3 pm!


    Allie glanced up at the clock again and realized that there were barely 40 minutes left.


    "Miss, can you let me get inside an empty room for a while? " The bewildered nurse, though without a word, looked up at her wondering why was she asking for it.


    The nurse surprisingly granted her request and soon, she was inside an empty patient''s room. Locking up the door hurriedly, she went further inside a spacious bathroom, then fell down on her knees and cried! The clock was ticking fast and there were already 30 minutes left.


    In deep anguish, she cried hard unto God. Until at that moment, God knew that she did not have a single cent to pay for the CT scan. And until now, she did not know where to get it.


    "Lord, " She began murmuring the things she kept in her heart.


    "If that sick woman who touched the hem of your dress got healed by faith, I also requested the CT scan schedule to be moved closer by faith. If it is according to your will that my daughter be healed then provide me the money I need. I no longer have time left but I believe you have thousand ways. If you are able to make a beautiful flower which are just plucked off in the fields or that intricate wonders of nature which are the works of your Hands, my problem is just too tiny in your eyes. Just, please touch her and my baby will no longer need the surgery. "


    After this, she wailed bitterly and rolled down on the floor. She felt that her eyes were already expelling bloody tears which matched the pain inside her heart.


    Then her thoughts went to Ajie and his promise.


    "Why do you leave me alone in this? When you promised to love me, did you only mean it when everything is doing well? Where are you now? Why aren''t you coming back? "


    Due to her instensed crying, she did not realized that the thirty minutes was already over. She heard a soft knocking on the door and she knew that it was already the nurse.


    The moment she stood up, her phone sounded endlessly, notifying her of the messages.


    "Ms. Allyza, an amount of... was sent to you via Palawan/Cebuana/MLhuiller....You may claim it with a valid ID. "


    There was not only one or two messages but there were many, and those were from the people she had not heard many years ago.


    She cried hard again and this time, it was because of the immediate and unexpected way God had answered her prayer!


    There was a soft knocking again at the door and it was, indeed, the nurse she was expecting.But instead of informing her that the ambulance personnel had arrived, she went inside the room and closed the door behind her.


    "Ma''am, if you still do not have the money, just use the money I have here. "


    Allie''s eyes widened in awe and surprise that she bawled her eyes out again. How did she know it? Did her insistence lately to move the schedule showed the fact that she did not have the money? Or course, one would think that she had it. Why would she ask for a closer schedule otherwise?


    Hugging the nurse, she realized that God still does a miracle these days and miracles could be in the form of someone''s kindness and thoughtfulness. And angels are still sent nowadays to rescue His children in need in human form!


    .

 Chapter 16 - The Music

    The CT scan was personally attended by the pediatric surgeon and right after the procedure, the doctor went to see her.


    "Miss Allyza, the CT scan still does not show what caused the obstruction. You have to decide now. If we will do the surgery right now, successful or not, at least we are doing something to save her. Since we can''t see the problem through diagnostic imaging, so it means we have to open up and see what really is the problem inside. " The doctor tried to explain the situation clearly.


    "But if you still need time to think about it, the child may not be able to wait! "


    Allie''s heart was shattered once again. What could be expected from the surgery of a three -month -old baby? What would be the possible outcome? If the child would survive, how would it affect her later mentally and physically? Chloe would be undergoing a general anesthesia and she was afraid of the adverse reactions.


    She was asking God until this time for a miracle. A miracle that would spare her from the surgery. Yet, she realized that God uses instruments and the doctors and the rest of the medical team are one.


    "And Miss Allyza, right after the surgery, your child must be admitted to the ICU. She will also be handled by a pediatric intensivist, a physician who handles critical patients. "


    "She also needs immediate blood transfusions because of severe blood loss as well as potassium and albumin corrections before we could start the surgery. If not, she may not be cleared. "


    All these were defeaning sentences against Allie''s ears. ICU admission alone, not to mention the surgery, needed a great amount of downpayment. The money she collected was not too big to be able to cover the expenses. It was only a little more than the amount for the CT scan and her expensive medications. What was left with her would just be enough to buy those units of blood he ordered. His means of nutrition to sustain her was also given intravenously and those, too, were expensive.


    What made her hold on was the immediate answer God gave her when she asked if her child would be able to make it. He would not give her the miracle of finding the money for the CT scan and for her other expenses if He would just allow her to lose her life.


    Her thoughts flew back to the incidence when she prayed for the CT scan payment. How did her friends know about her daughter''s condition and why were they sending her money?


    After a deep thinking, she understood. When Charlene came to visit them, she must have informed their other classmates who were now working in other countries. The softness of her heart made God use her as the channel of providing for her baby''s needs.


    Her next problem was the surgery and the ICU admission. What would she do? Then, she thought of asking a favor from the hospital management! She would talk to the head who handled the patient''s business and accounts.


    She asked again for an empty room to tell God of her worries and His another intervention for the surgery. She asked that may He would touch the heart of the person she would be talking to.


    An hour later, she was already sitting in front of the patient''s business head. Contrary to her expectation, the head threw her lots of insulting words which were too hard to digest. Helpless because she was the one in need, she just stooped down and cried.


    "Sir, if I need to serve your institution to be able to pay the favor you will give for my daughter, I would be very much willing to do so..." She said in between her sobs.


    "Okay, Miss Allyza, you have to choose only one. ICU admission or the surgery? Then find another means for the second one. "


    His option made her sob loudly.


    "Sir, I''m afraid I no longer have the time. Please, give me both. "


    The head stood up and walk out while shaking his head.


    "That''s impossible, Miss. How could you guarantee that you will be able to pay right after this?" He said as he glanced at her over his shoulder.


    Allyza hurriedly stood up and followed after him.


    "Sir, please. Do this for the life of my daughter..."


    Allyza saw that there were many eyes directed at her. Yet, ignoring her sense of inferiority, shame and self - pity, she followed him while crying.


    "Miss, you are not the only one I am refusing to. Everyday, I am talking to people with several problems like yours. Please understand that this hospital couldn''t survive if I would be soft to all people who are struggling financially."


    "Sir, please... "


    Finally, after who knew how much pleading she did, the patient business head conceded and gave her the approval.


    When she returned to the room, one of her friends from a youth organization she belonged, was there. With her, was someone she had not met before.


    "Lyz, I''m so sorry for what happened to your daughter. We will include her in our special prayers. "


    "Thank you, Anne. " She smiled weakly and hugged her friend tightly.


    When she released her, she turned to the person who was with her.


    "Lyz, please met Andrew, a close friend of mine. He is new to the group. " Then, she turned to Andrew.


    "Andrew, this is my friend Allyza. "


    They both shook hands and the three talked for some time. Allie''s tears who had just dried, turned to river again as she told them her story.


    Then, Andrew broke his silence. He was, perhaps , five years older than her. He looked gentle and friendly.


    "Lyz, is there a prayer room here? "


    He asked, making Allie stare at him.


    "I think... " She answered.


    "May we go there? "


    "Sure. ''


    Anne stood up ahead but instead of leading them to the prayer room, she excused herself and left ahead.


    Andrew and Allie walked slowly towards the chapel while conversing about anything. When they were finally inside, Andrew guided her to a bench to sit down.


    "Lyz, have you heard about the wicked King Saul? Everytime he was too bothered, he would ask David to play the harp to relax his mind. My point is, I also want you to relax and meditate while I will play some pieces. "


    Allie was grateful of his offer. That''s what she needed at the moment. She instantly felt comfortable with his presence. After those transfusions, her daughter would be wheeled in to the operating room.


    Soon, Andrews deft fingers ran into the keyboard, producing a soothing and inspirational music into the air. It was so beautiful that it pierced into the deep recesses of her hearts. She didn''t realize that while she immersed herself into the wonderful strain, the weight in her heart heaved out and she fell asleep!


    .


    .

 Chapter 17 - The Surgery

    Andrew''s music had long faded into the background but Allie did not wake up. Seeing that she was deeply asleep, he stood up and sat beside her. It gave her an unrestricted opportunity to look at her closely. Her eyes already had dark circles around. Perhaps, she had not slept for a long time. She looked too tired but it did not conceal her beautiful features. She wore no make up and her long, brown hair was tied into a messy ponytail. She looked so young, and too young to experience such fear and agony.His heart ached at the thought of it and he swore to do something to help her.


    He waited for four hours until Allie finally stirred.She got startled and that she hurriedly sprang into her feet.


    "Chloe..." She blurted out but then saw Andrew napping by her side.


    Just as she stepped forward, Andrew woke up.


    "Andrew, I''m sorry. You should have left while I was asleep.


    "It''s alright. "


    "The music was so beautiful. Can you play again next time? "


    Andrew smiled and briefly replied.


    "Sure. "


    Andrew was a degree holder in music, major in piano. He was a skilled musician and could play multiple string instruments aside from piano. He regularly played in famous hotels, either as a solo performer or with an ensemble. He also had regular coaching schedules in different music school.


    He joined the "Youth In Action" organization when, one time, he was invited by Anne to play in one of their special events. Inspired by the objectives of the group, he accepted Anne''s invitation to join them.


    "Andrew, you may now go. It''s already late. I need to see my daughter. "


    Andrew nodded and they both went out of the room together. Allie went directly to her daughter''s room and found out that the blood transfusions were delayed because of constant infiltration or inflammation of Chloe''s IV sites. When the pediatrician - on - duty came in with the nurse to reinsert an intravenous line, she shuddered. Even adults are scared of needles, how much more children do?


    Watching the doctor as she tried to blindly insert the needle and failed, she grimaced in pain. And when she tried to do another blind shooting, Allie could no longer bear to watch it. Though Chloe was too weak too resist, Allie could still imagine the pain. She hurriedly went inside the bathroom and cried.


    When she finally went out after thirty minutes, the reinsertion was already successful. To her surprise, Andrew was there again.


    "Andrew! You''re still here? "


    "I just bought food outside. You need to eat. " He smiled as he explained.


    "Oh... thank you. "


    "My pleasure. "


    Andrew distributed the food to her parents and to both of them. Allie still had no appetite but out of respect to his thoughtfulness, she sat down to eat.


    "Go home now, Andrew, and thank you so much for your thoughtfulness. " Allie told him when everyone of them had finished their food.


    "Okay. When will be the surgery? "


    "The doctor who was just here informed us that it would be in early morning. Please include her in your prayers. "


    Andrew gave her a pursed smile and nodded sincerely. After he left, Allie went to the prayer room again. She logged in to her social media account and sent a message to Youth In Action''s group chat.


    "This is urgent. Whatever religious denomination you are into, please gather around together with your respective church members and please pray for the success of my daughter''s surgery. " Allie felt that if there would be many of them to pray in her behalf, the greater the chance would be for her child''s survival.


    Many replies soon popped out. One of them even informed her that she was calling all her church members to do a marathon prayer that night until morning. Some got the idea and they also agreed to the same. Allie felt secured and humbled in knowing that she was not alone. Many were praying for them and it was worth more than her financial needs. She also did not sleep that night. She spent all the hours pleading to God for the surgery''s success.


    While the child was wheeled in to the operating room, Allie did not cry anymore. She had the feeling of peace and assurance in her heart. She expected either a successful surgery or a call from the operating room to inform her that the surgery would be cancelled because the child was miraculously healed. Until that moment, she was still afraid of that surgical blades which would cut her child''s abdomen.


    She sent her parents home to rest since after the surgery, Chloe would be transferred to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). They wouldn''t be using the room anymore since they would be staying at the ICU watcher''s lounge. She also wanted to be alone since their presence would keep her from being herself. Crying her heart out would be impossible with them around.


    She waited at the entrance of the operating room and continued her silent prayer. Few minutes after, she felt a light tap at her shoulder. It was Andrew again, bringing two bags of groceries and fruits.


    "The surgery would surely take long. How about continuing your meditation in the prayer room? I''ll play again for you. "


    She gladly accepted. She needed the soothing sound of music to fill into her souls again. Once there, Andrew ran his fingers over the keys again and the first piece he played was one of her favorite songs she memorized so well. It was titled, "It Is Well With My Soul", written by Philip Paul Bliss & Christopher C. Spafford.


    Just when she thought that her tears had dried up already from so much crying, it fell like torrents again as her mind sang the song. She felt the message in every line heartily as she also thought how the song was written.


    "When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,


    When sorrows like sea billows roll;


    Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,


    It is well, it is well with my soul.


    It is well with my soul,


    It is well, it is well with my soul."


    This hymn was written after traumatic events in Spafford''s life. The first was the death of his son at the age of two and the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which ruined him financially. He had been a successful lawyer and had invested significantly in property in the area of Chicago that was extensively damaged by the great fire. His business interests were further hit by the economic downturn of 1873, at which time he had planned to travel to Europe with his family on the SS Ville du Havre.


    In a late change of plan, he sent the family ahead while he was delayed on business concerning zoning problems following the Great Chicago Fire. While crossing the Atlantic Ocean, the ship sank rapidly after a collision with a sea vessel, the  Loch Earn, and all four of Spafford''s daughters died. His wife Anna survived and sent him a telegram, "Saved alone ¡­".


    Shortly afterwards, as Spafford traveled to meet his grieving wife, he was inspired to write these words as his ship passed near where his daughters had died. Bliss called his tune Ville du Havre, from the name of the stricken vessel.

 Chapter 18 - A Surgery Without Anesthesia

    After those agonizing hours of waiting to know the outcome, the surgeon finally came out.


    "Miss Allyza, we found an inborn or congenital bands at the outer walls of your child''s small intestine. Imagine your child''s intestine as a rose stalk. Along the stalk, there are thorns. Or, you can also imagine a hairy stalk. Only that the thorns or hairs are long strands, about a foot long and about the width of a rubber band."


    " The movement of the intestines medically called as ''peristalsis'', caused these strands or bands to wrap or bind around the body of the intestine until it got tighter, choking and twisting it, thus, the obstruction. All her ingested milk can no longer pass through the large intestines that''s why it is pushed back on her stomach which explained her vomiting. The obstruction destroyed a long portion of the small intestine beyond healing and repair so we decide to cut it. We pulled out the ends of both cut portion of the intestine to her outer and lower abdomen, to allow healing and control of infection. Because if we would connect both ends right then, the stitch will only burst out or rupture due to the infection. After a month or two, when the infection is controlled, we will stitch and connect both ends again then place it back inside her abdominal cavity. "


    "So we need to do a second surgery. As of now, the child will pass out her waste through the pulled out intestinal ends outside her lower abdomen, called ''ileostomy''."


    "Do you mean, doc, my child is safe now and after the second surgery, she will be back to normal? " Allie nervously asked, too scared of that term called ''ileostomy''.


    The end of the cut portions of her intestine is placed outside her abdomen? Then she would be touching the intestines everytime she would clean her out? What a mind - blowing revelation!


    "It''s too early to say it. We still could not eliminate complications. We may had climbed a mountain successfully but we couldn''t guarantee that we wouldn''t stumble over a small mound. Who knew that the fall would be fatal? "


    The doctor tried to gently appraise her for the anticipated complication. She had to prepare her heart and mind ahead for the worst.


    "I''m sorry to tell you this, Miss Allyza. I don''t want to give you false hope. But I must admit it. Of the twenty years I have handled surgeries, it is only now that I have witnessed a miracle over the operating table. "


    The doctor paused for a while as he tried to hold back his emotion. He took a deep breath but that wasn''t able to stop the redenning of his eyes.


    "She was kicking and crying in the OR table, looking for her pacifier. I didn''t expect it because she was already dying when I last saw her. The small amount of anesthesia inducted to her stopped her heart, so we went on with the surgery with a very little amount, close to none. "


    Of all the pain she went through, of all those fear she tried to overcome, of all the shame and insults she received, nothing was more painful than knowing that her child went into the surgery without an anesthesia! The needle inserted into her vein a while ago even broke her heart, how much more in imagining those blades cutting some portion of her intestines...


    In front of the doctor and some of the medical team, she cried bitterly. It was too hard to accept!


    Later, Andrew comforted her. "Don''t feel so bad about that. I am sure that God allowed her a painless surgery. Stay strong. You will still be planning ahead for the second surgery. "


    Later in the ICU, her heart experienced death a thousand times when she saw Chloe lying peacefully with many attachments. The beeping and the pumping sounds of the machines were all deafening and frightening. A mechanical ventilator to support her breathing, a cardiac monitor which displayed the tracings of her hearbeats, the many bottles attached to her IV lines...


    Then, she saw the white bandage covering her surgical wound across her abdomen. She also saw that ''ileostomy'' which looked like a raw, red meat covered with a plastic pouch at one side of her abdomen.It was placed below the horizontal line of the long surgical wound, starting at one point at her side and ended at her other side.


    A fluid seemed dripping from it and the nurse was stuffing pads of gauze around it as if to prevent its leakage.


    "Miss, can you please explain why are you doing that? "She could no longer hold her curiousity since she was already presuming that she would also be doing it once Chloe would be discharged.


    "It is because the fluid will cause erosion to the child''s skin so I''m preventing it to happen. And since it is from her small intestine, the drainage would be continous. "


    The more she got horrified. Who else would touch those tips of the intestines other than her? Her parents would surely get a heart attack if they would do that! So, it only meant to cause her many sleepless days and nights. How would she also survive?


    The only solution to this was to raise the fund needed for the second surgery. The hospital would surely not allow her to do a promisory arrangement on top of her current bill. She could no longer borrow from anybody else because she already had too much debts.


    She went out and hurried to the prayer room again. Despite the evidence of God''s earlier miracles, human as she was, she couldn''t help herself from getting torn! Where would she get the fund? She just couldn''t stand still and wait what would happen. Success is the union of both divine power and human effort...so she must do something herself!


    Andrew followed her inside. He knew exactly what bothered her.


    "Allie, I will arrange for benefit concerts. The proceeds will be for baby Chloe. " He said with a determined expression on his face.


    Allie felt so awed. She had just met him and he was already giving so much. She even had not known him yet except that he was a new member of her group.


    "How can I thank you enough? "She smiled while her tears were dripping from the corners of her eyes.

 Chapter 19 - When You Do Something Ridiculous

    "You don''t have to. I must leave now so I can work on it. I''ll leave you my number. Call me if there''s anything I can help you with. "


    When Andrew left, she thought of possible ways to raise the fund. But her train of thoughts was suddenly halted when Anne called her up.


    "Lyz, can you please make a solicitation letter? I''m going to send it to my sisters who are both active in each of their respective organizations. I had already talked to them about your daughter''s case and one of them said that she''s willing to make some fund - raising for her. She''s also planning to bake cupcakes to sell it after their meetings and the proceeds will be for baby Chloe. "


    Happy about the idea, she hurriedly went home to write one and sent it right away to her.


    "Lyz, if it''s also okay with you, I will forward this letter to our group chat so that they can also forward it to their friends. "


    Anne was another angel and she got so overwhelmed upon realizing her thoughtfulness. She first introduced her to Andrew who, in turn, promised to do concerts for a cause. She thought about all these and couldn''t believe in the wonderful turn of events.


    While she leaned her back on their couch and opened her social media account, she learned that Andrew had posted a poster about his charity concerts as well as the venues.


    Anne followed with her posting of the solicitation letter and soon, many volunteered to do solicitations.


    She was also thinking of sending the same letter to her friends but since there were only few of them, she thought of looking for any email addresses she could find on boxes, sachets and in the internet. Who knew if she''d be fortunate enough?


    While scanning into her emails, a news heading popped out as her phone vibrated for the notification.


    She opened one and read it.


    "The Top10 World said that the estimated net worth of Willie Revillame, a Filipino businessman, a television host and an artist, including the first two quarters of 2018 is at $25M or 1.3 billion in peso, making him one of the richest Filipino celebrities. "


    "Meanwhile, a professional boxer and politician in the Philippines, Pacquiao has amassed a vast fortune over the past 24 years. Per Celebrity Net Worth, Pacquiao has a net worth of $190 million. As of 2018, Nat Berman of MoneyInc.com noted Pacquiao is the fourth-highest-earning boxer in history."


    After reading this, she came up with an idea. These two public figures were known for their generosities. They were both giving livelihood showcases, housing programs and hospitalization aids, so perhaps, she could try her luck. It may sound funny, but she hurriedly called Anne to meet her in a mall.


    "Anne, look at this. " Allie showed her two long and white envelopes the moment Anne arrived.


    "What''s that? " Anne asked, dying of curiousity for being urgently requested.


    "I''m planning to send a solicitation letter to these two. " Allie then narrated how she came up with the idea.


    Anne giggled and almost popped her eyeballs out. It sounded too ridiculous! It seemed too impossible to be given a chance to be heard. But she did not object, anyway. She even led the way to a branch of LBC, a courier, cargo and logistics company.


    After filling out the forms and submitting it to the teller, the latter frowned and cast them a contemptous look.


    "Miss, are you really sure they are the receivers? The teller looked at her, doubtful of their appeareances.


    Allie realized her folly and she got so ashamed that she got pale. The teller must have guessed their intentions. Wasn''t it too obvious, sending two letters simultaneously to two famous celebrities? Before Allie could retract, Anne went over to the teller threateningly.


    "Why, is there any problem with that?" Anne raised a brow at her which made her sharp look intimidating.


    "No, ma''am, sorry! " The teller instantly apologized and resumed to her encoding.


    Once they were outside, Allie almost fainted in shame and regret. It was, indeed, too ridiculous of her.


    "It''s alright. The burden you bear would make anyone go desperate. And it is always during those times that we do ridiculous decisions. "


    Days passed by and Chloe''s attachments were gradually pulled out and what remained was her IV line for her antibiotics. She was then transferred to a regular room. She was now awake and alert and her feeding was resumed. Only that, only breastmilk was allowed.


    Due to so much stress and helplessness, she couldn''t produce enough milk. No matter what kind of lactating milk and supplements she took, still her production was too slow.


    "I''ll come everyday and breastfeed Chloe. " Anne offered, to her another surprise.


    She had a son who was a year older than Chloe and she was blessed with overflowing production of milk. But of course, she couldn''t be there all the time. She also had her routines and activities aside from feeding her own son. Yet for a time, it was still a great blessing for Chloe.


    One morning, during one of the surgeon''s daily round, he made an announcement.


    "We just have to complete her IV antibiotics for 14 days and then you can go home. Just learn how to clean her up through that stoma or opening in her lower abdomen we called ileostomy. You will need assistance in doing that because the process is continous especially that the baby''s feeding has resumed. The drainage from that ileostomy is harsh and will cause an erosion to her skin. "


    "Is there anything we can do to prevent the leakage? " Allie sighed at the thought of it. She couldn''t afford another cause of pain to the child.


    "There is what we called as ileostomy bag. Unfortunately, the available sizes are too big for her that it won''t seal up the opening."


    The doctor felt sorry for that fact but there was nothing he could advise except for an ointment or cream to apply around the ileostomy site so that any leakage wouldn''t touch directly to the child''s skin.


    An hour later, Andrew came in with his another bags of goods. Everytime he visited, he always brought lots of food and drinks.


    "Allie, can you be my guest


    tonight? The concert will be at Cebu Waterfront Hotel and Casino. "


    Early in the evening later, as Allie went out to go home and change before she would go to the concert, he passed by the emergency room. She got horrified at what she saw. A bloody man was strapped in a stretcher and was wheeled inside the ER. Following them was a tall and lean man who walked so fast to catch them up. Her heart raced as she gazed at his back. Except for the obvious weight gain, his built looked familiar!


    "Ajie? "

 Chapter 20 - Hes Back!

    One summer vacation, Ajie decided to go home and visit his parents. It had been a year already since he left. The humiliation he got from Allie''s family was something which pushed him to strive hard and be his best. Someday, he would show them that not all of his mother''s family were destined to be druglords and drug mules. Not all were destined to be society''s eye sore. Not all were responsible for the riots and bloody fights during fiestas or any events in their place.


    Someday, he would be someone they would look up and respect. If only their tender age was the reason of their refusal for marriage, he would have understood. But all the degradation and slander thrown at them even to his innocent parents were too much. He would have accepted if Allie''s family attacked only those whom they knew as the black weeds of the society but to insult their dignity as a whole was unacceptable. His own parents did not deserved it. They were still young, anyway, and marriage could wait.


    Instead of taking a direct route from Manila to his homeplace, he took a flight to Cebu. He wanted to see her again and assure her that he would be coming back and marry her someday. He just had to finish his studies. He took up Bachelor of Science in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering. Someday, he would be the builder of the biggest and the most beautiful ship in the country and he would take Allie with him during its maiden voyage.


    "Auntie, do you have any idea where they could have possibly moved out?" Ajie''s heart sanked down when he learned from her Auntie Elsa that Allie''s family had moved out from Kamelyo.


    "Allie''s maternal side were already involved in the contention between our families and the tension became unbearable for her. Or, perhaps, she just wanted to end the trouble because of you. So, one morning, we only woke up to find that they were gone. "


    "She did not tell you where? " He frowned, a sense of frustration started to engulf him. Philippines is too large a place to scour a lost needle.


    "Perhaps for their safety, no. "Elsa confirmed.


    Ajie began to get nervous. He allowed his indignation to rule in that even a single message to ask her how she was, was never done. He allowed his wounded pride to dominate, never thinking that he could lose her in the process. Just the thought of the very long travel his mother had sacrificed, angered him. Eversince she underwent a surgery, his father had regarded her as a fragile treasure. Not allowing her to work anymore in the farm nor do a heavy household chores like doing laundry. She was treated like a queen, only to be slandered spitefully? He could never accept it.


    He may had promised to come back for Allie but that would be when his status would be a slap to them. He knew they were right. None among his family here in the city were able to graduate because of the strong peer and family influence.


    He hurried to pick up his phone and searched for her name again in social media accounts but still, there was none. Her previous phone number was no longer in use already. The truth was that Ajie never had any account on social media except on that day he decided to go home. For him, it was just a waste of time.


    Her name may had appeared in search engines but it was only her name and address. Perhaps because, he did not have much knowledge on technology. He asked their common friends in college, but no one had an idea. Finally, he remembered Dino but just like Allie''s, only his name and address were displayed.


    The truth was that Allie still used the same phone number but after Chloe''s surgery, she decided to block him. What sense was there to wait when he , himself, did not show interest? If he truly loved her, he could not wait this long. He should have at least called her or send her even just a simple message but there was none. Even just a simple ''hi''and ''hello''. "


    She would never make the first step to have him back. Chloe''s sickness had been the most trying time she ever went through, but there was no sign of him. Instead, other people were there for their daughter. Other unrelated people were there to make sacrifices for her. Yet he, the person who should have been there when their child was on the brink of death, was not there. If he did not cut their communication, he would have known about his daughter.


    At about four in the afternoon, Ajie took a walk at the shore.The whole place was very quiet and no one was around. Not faraway, he saw that the previous factory site became a shipyard or a dry dock. Adjacent to the road, there was now a newly - constructed connecting road from the highway towards the shipyard.


    As he fixed his gaze closely, a man in his fifties, was walking along the shore. He then trudged along the water line, dipping into a knee - deep level. All of a sudden, he saw it with his two eyes that he fell and hit his head in a sharp - edged rock! Perhaps, he must have slipped in a mossy rock bed.


    Ajie ran towards him and without any hesitation, he picked him up and carried him in his arms. There was already a dripping blood above his right ear and his right arm was twisted. Due to his sudden fear, he instantly felt a surge of energy that he was able to run fast. With no one to call for help, he kept on running until he passed by a group of motorcycle riders, waiting for passengers.


    "Boss, please call an ambulance! I''ll pay for it. " After handing his rather big payment to the driver, he rested in a corner to wait.


    Soon, the ambulance arrived. The first - aiders hurriedly went out with their folding stretcher. They, then, placed the man on it carefully. Seeing that an arm was twisted, they also took a splint and wrapped it around his arm.


    "Sir, is he your father? "The ambulance nurse asked him after he took his vital signs.


    At the mention of the word ''father'', Ajie suddenly felt emotional. What if it was his own father and no one helped him? It had been a year, also, since he last met his parents. And that was during his and Allie''s supposed engagement dinner. Wrapped in mixed emotion, he did not realize that drops of tears slid into his face. Seeing those tears, the nurse didn''t wait for his answer anymore. His tears spoke it all.


    "You may sit down beside him, sir. "


    The nurse instructed him as he sat down by the door in uncontrollable tears. What happened to him? He could not understand!


    Few minutes after, the man was transported towards an emergency room. He hurriedly followed them inside. While they temporarily stopped by the door as the orderlies secured the anchors, he looked around.


    Then, in his peripheral view, he saw a familiar figure. Just as he turned fully towards her, the door of a taxi opened, obstructing her full view.


    "Sir, please come inside. " The voice of the nurse interrupted him. He quickly turned to him and nodded.


    When he glanced back to supposedly look at her closely, the taxi had zoomed out already.


    "Allie? "

 Chapter 21 - The Stranger

    "Sir, will you please fill out the patient''s information sheet? " A nurse approached him and handed him a sheet of paper after a Post - Graduate Intern did an assessement and interview with him about the incident.


    Ajie stared blanky at the nurse as he was lost in his thoughts for a while. He did not know the man and he even never met him before. Would he be accused of his injury as no one was there to witness the incident? Ajie shuddered at the thought...But how could he allow himself to be haunted by his conscience if he would just left him there to die? However, what bothered him more was the fact why he was carried emotionally. Perhaps, it was something about himself that he didn''t knew it existed. Perhaps, he really had a heart for those oppressed, for those who were helpless...


    Pulling himself together, he looked at the nurse in the eye and told him the truth.


    "I don''t know who he is, I just saw him fell... He''s a complete stranger to me.... "


    The doctors and the rest of the ER team paused at what they were doing as they overheard him telling his story.


    "Please do everything necessary to help him recover. I''d be a call away. I''ll leave my number. " Ajie said sincerely.


    Then, the surgeon -on - duty came over. He looked at Ajie closely before he explained.


    "Sir, this is not a simple thing. We had to do surgeries. First, for his fractured arm and after the CT scan, we would then know if he also needs another surgery for his brain. "


    "The patient has no identification cards or even bank cards to let us know who he is. We can either report the incident to the media or wait until he gets conscious to protect his rights for confidentiality. "


    "Whatever is best, doc. "


    Then, a medical technologist came in to give them his stat laboratory results. The doctor scanned the pages quickly then turned to Ajie worriedly.


    "Sir, your patient needs a blood transfusion due to the bleeding. Since we don''t have a blood bank here yet, would you also be willing to do the screening as a blood donor? "


    Ajie quickly imagined himself in needles and blood that he got to scared. But somehow, he couldn''t refuse. His heart was really drawn to that man. A sense of pity he would feel for his own father. He had started this, therefore, he would end this. Come what may.


    "Okay, doc. I''ll do it! "


    While at the laboratory later for the blood extraction, the med tech was very accomodating. He talked to him about anything, perhaps, to divert his attention. He must have seen how his face turned pale the moment he saw the needle.


    "Sir, if you need more blood for transfusion, we have a spare unit for release here because the patient, who is a baby, does not need it anymore. The mother intends to sell to anybody in need for additional


    fund. "


    "That''s a good news! May I talk to the mother? "


    "You may look for her in Room 343.


    The patient''s name is Chloe Reyes. "


    "Reyes? "


    "Yes, sir. "


    His heart skipped a beat. How was this patient related to Allyza Reyes? Perhaps, just perhaps, the mother could give him a lead in finding Allie again.


    Hours later, he found himself knocking at Room 343. All of a sudden, he got uneasy. He just couldn''t explain why. Perhaps, its because of the similarity of the family name.


    "Yes, sir? " A young woman opened the door for him.


    "Good evening, ma''am. I''m here to arrange for the purchase of a unit of blood which the patient does not need anymore. " Ajie explained as he gazed into the eyes of the woman, hoping she could be Allie''s relative and that she would recognize him.


    "Ah, the blood. Yes, I know that but the child''s mom is not yet here. Can you just come back, please?"


    Ajie nodded, suddenly feeling frustrated. Then, his eyes were drawn to the child in the bed. He saw the white bandage...the nurse draining a fluid from a pouch below the bandage. Goosebumps suddenly spread all throughout his body that he suddenly had the urge to cry. Perhaps, he thought, from being emotional a while ago...


    "What happened to the baby? "Ajie couldn''t hold his curiousity anymore.


    "She just underwent a surgery due to an obstruction in her small


    intestine."


    "But she is still so little.. "Ajie exclaimed, feeling thousand pricks into his heart as his eyes coudn''t move away from her. He, suddenly, had the longing to lift her into his arms and draw her close to his heart. But she looked so delicate!


    "Yes, three months old. "


    "What... "


    Staying another minute would really rob him off of his guards against his tears, so he stood up and excused himself.


    "I''ll be back, ma''am. By the way, my name is Adrian. "


    "Thank you, sir. My name is Anne. I''ll surely inform the mother. I''m just being requested to take care of the baby while she''s out for a while. "


    Once Ajie was out of the room, he was really emotionally disturbed by the sight. Her bloating body, the bandage, the red, raw tissues below the surgical wound. How was the mother able to handle all of this?


    Feeling suffocated with his bursting emotion, he decided to go back to ate Elsa''s place. He dropped by the billing department and left an amount according to the estimated cost of that unidentified man''s admission and procedure.


    "Miss, should you need more, just please inform me. "


    He knew that spending his money for that unidentified man in a private hospital would create him financial troubles soon. This proceeds in selling a land property was intended for his studies but he was now spending almost all of it for someone whose name he did not even know. Yet, he did not feel a sense of regret. Thinking of that child, he recalled what the med tech said.


    "The mother intended to sell it for additional fund. "


    Were the parents of that child in need of financial assistance?

 Chapter 22 - The Red Roses

    Ajie thought hard and finally, he pulled out again a blank check.


    "Miss, I want to give a small amount for the baby in Room 343. Do you have the full name of the mother so that I can write her name in the check? "


    Without answering him yet, the biller opened the account of the patient in Room 343 to look into the patient''s information details. Then, she also scanned through the current bill and gasped!


    "Sir, I am sure the family would be happy with that. Their current bill is so high already. "


    "Please give me the mother''s name now so I can help. "


    "Okay, sir. It''s Allyza Reyes. "


    Ajie instantly turned pale while his heartbeat got into frenzy. What a similarity! Could she really be Allie or just someone with a similar name? This was so much of a coincidence! Thanks heavens! He was led back to her easily!


    But when he thought about the child, he felt a pang of pain deep inside. Had she married someone else already? If she was, why was she still using her maiden name? Could she be pregnant before the marriage?


    Or, could she be pregnant with his own child? He recalled the last time they made love and when he counted the months, the baby would now be three months old.


    "Miss, how old again is the baby? "


    He asked, the beatings of his heart was even louder than his voice.


    "Three months, sir! "


    Ajie froze for a while before he snapped back to reality. He hurriedly wrote down Allie''s name. He must know the truth right then!


    "P200, 000. " The eyes of the biller widened in disbelief! He just left P200, 000 for that unidentified patient, and now, another amount for someone he also did not know?


    Counting his remaining savings, he knew that beginning tomorrow, he would have to skip meals just to save. Or perhaps, he would look for summer jobs. He just couldn''t tell his parents that he''s spending his educational fund for people he didn''t know at all.


    He must go home first to Molave early in the morning, so that he could find a job right after he would be back to Manila. He knew he wouldn''t earn his money back right away but at, least, he wouldn''t go hungry. There''s still two more years to complete his degree.


    ___


    Meanwhile, Allie arrived at the hotel shortly before the concert started. She looked around where to sit down but all the seats were already almost occupied. As soon as she saw an empty seat, she hurriedly walked towards it, afraid that somebody else might take it ahead of her. But as soon as she settled herself comfortably, Andrew appeared from nowhere with a big grin.


    "Come over here, I have reserved a seat for you at the front. "


    She looked around and blushed. Many of the people here must have recognized him already. They would have not come here in the first place just for the purpose of charity. Of course, they had known him and his talent and were obviously his fans. Perhaps, he already had made a name in the music industry.


    At exactly seven in the evening, the event officially started. After the meditation, greetings and opening remarks, Andrew walked up to the stage in a grey tuxedo. With a smile, he made a bow before he sat down in his seat before a huge, shining, black grand piano. Soon, a beautiful, inspirational music flowed out from his fingers as it danced across and back the long keyboard. He played four more pieces before a break, in which a solo violin performance took over the intermission number.


    When Andrew was back for the second part, the master of the ceremony explained first some details to the crowd about the purpose of the concert. Then, as his deft fingers hit the keys wonderfully again as he played the piece titled, "How Great thou Art", photos of baby Chloe flashed across the wide screen. The crowd who was still overwhelmed by the soothing and uplifting music rendition as their hearts seemed to float high into the air, now found themselves shedding tears. Those who were mothers and grandparents who could tell exactly the joy of seeing their children for the first time, were the ones who were most affected. How could they be able to bear if such horrible fate would happen to their own children?


    The smiles of baby Chloe in the first photos which shifted into painful grimaces due to indescribable pain, ripped their hearts apart. Then, as her dying images wherein her bloating body and abdomen where emphasized and her tiny figure hooked to many tubings being fed to different machines, the music hit its highest notes and most touching strain, penetrating to the deepest recesses of their hearts. The audienced then hushed their voices as almost everyone was holding back their tears brought about by the searing pain they felt for the child.


    As soon as the program ended, all of them gathered around the event organizer as they handed out their financial blessings they wanted to share for the child. It was never a part of the plan. They just had to buy the tickets and the proceeds would be forwarded to baby Chloe. Yet, the crowds were so moved that they felt the cost of the ticket was not enough.


    When the last person from the crowd left the place, Andrew walked towards Allie with a bouquet of red roses. In his other hand, was a brown envelope containing the amount of money collected from the crowd.


    "The proceeds of this concert will follow. " Andrew said as he handed both the flowers and the envelope.


    Allie became teary - eyed. She couldn''t believe that such great blessings were unfolding before her eyes. She laughed while she held her gaze at Andrew but tears were flowing down.


    "How can I thank you enough for your thoughtfulness? "


    "No need to thank me. It''s my pleasure. " He smiled back as he reached out to wipe the tears in her face.


    "What are these flowers for? " Allie asked innocently, thinking that it was prepared by the organizers as the benefactor of the concert.


    "For the strong and beautiful lady. "


    He said with a soft and sincere smile as he looked at her tenderly.


    Allie was dumbfounded. She felt awkward and could no longer find more words to say than a simple, "thank you. "


    Andrew did not hold her long. He drove her back to the hospital as he knew that her child was waiting.


    When he opened the door later for Allie to come down, he saw a man standing not far from them. He saw him watching them and he saw how his eyes darkened as he saw Allie walked towards the entrance with roses in her arm...

 Chapter 23 - Win Her Back

    "Allie..." Andrew called out just as she walked past the guard''s booth.


    She turned back as she heard her name.


    "Andrew. " She raised a brow as she looked back at her.


    "Nothing. Just wanna thank you for the night. "


    Allie chuckled inwardly after she realized she had expected something more.


    "Good night, Andrew. "


    As she was about to turn back, her eyes caught the figure of a man lurking in the dim area behind the post. She creased her brows as she looked further. The figure was familiar. Thinking of that same figure she saw just when she left hours ago, her heartbeats started to race. It must be him! Why was he here? She was sure none of his family members knew about her daughter.


    Thinking about her humiliation for leaving her defenseless against her family, for retreating easily, for not fighting for their love, she walked fast. She no longer wanted to see him! Ajie did not deserve to know the truth!


    Just as she was about to open the door, a big hand stopped her own which was holding the door knob. Soon, she felt the rushing of her blood flow towards her face, sending erratic pulses to her heart.


    "Allie... " He spoke just behind her ear and his warm breath sent a painful thrust into her heart. She knew she missed him and even longed for him. But she just could not take his negligence for granted. He was not as responsible as she thought him to be!


    "Allie, let''s talk, please. "


    She turned to him and looked into his eyes squarely.


    "There''s nothing to talk about. Now, you may leave. "


    "Allie, please don''t do this. " Ajie began to beg.


    "The day you left was the day I ended our relationship. So, there is definitely nothing to talk about. "


    "You promised to wait... " He started to argue.


    "Who would be fool enough to wait for someone who do not even care to send a single message for a long, whole year? " She glowered at him while her knees were shaking.


    "What do you mean? " Ajie was then beginning to feel afraid of that possibility he dreaded the most.


    "I''m sorry I''m not a saint to wait for your empty promises. Where were you to assure me in those times I tried to defend you against my parents? Where were you when I tried to prove them that you were different from all of them? Where were you when I assured my family that you loved me sincerely? You''re nowhere! And I was so fool then to let them believe over something I, myself, was no longer sure about. "


    Ajie suddenly realized she was right. He felt so sorry for himself but looking at her enraged demeanor right now, he did not know anymore if he could still undo his mistake.


    He tried to pull her towards him to let her feel how sorry he was but she pushed him away!


    "Don''t ever dare to touch me again!


    Even a slight touch would worsen my hatred towards you. "


    Ajie was not prepared in this confrontation that he did not know how to shield himself against her rage.


    "Who is that man who gave you that flowers? Throw it away! " He demanded as his face flushed in jealousy.


    "Who are you to tell me what to do? "


    She was already shaking in anger and in humiliation.


    "I have already loved again, Ajie. Don''t bother me anymore. "


    Ajie froze at her confirmation. He just stood there watching her as she opened and locked the door behind her. Realizing what just took over, he knocked at the door but she did not open it anymore. He knocked twice and up to ten times but still, there was no response.


    As he glanced at his watch, it was already almost midnight. He must leave right now so that he would be able to catch the first bus. He decided to settle his and Allie''s differences when he would be back.


    She needed to cool down and think things over. But what if she was owned by someone else already?


    He arrived at Molave before lunchtime. His parents were so overjoyed to see him again.


    "How''s your studies, son? " Issa asked excitedly.


    "I''m doing fine, nay. Someday, I will build the biggest and the most beautiful ship in the country. And both of you will be sailing with me in her maiden voyage!" His eyes sparked in his determination.


    Observing him, Leo wondered if he got this determination from his real father. Yet, if he was indeed a business tycoon, the great wealth he accumulated must also be because of his strong determination to succeed. And this was where his son got this attribute!


    "Son, how''s your finances? Do we have to sell another property? "


    Ajie''s guilt overwhelmed him when he heard this. How could he tell them what happened? How could he explain to them that it was his conscience which dictated him to do such thing? "


    "No, Tay. I still have much. "


    After a long chat with them, Issa felt something was wrong. His eyes were sad and he looked bothered.


    "Son, what is it that makes you sad?"


    Ajie smiled weakly at her mother. How did she know about it? Were mothers really that sensitive to know the pain he was hiding inside? He


    so tempted to cry at her shoulders. All year long, he was keeping the pain of humiliation and anger at how they were treated by Allie''s family.Only to realize that by doing so, he had lost Allie to someone else and they even had a daughter.


    "It''s Allie, nay..." He then narrated everything to her.


    "When women are hurt, they tend to lie. And she has all the reasons to get angry. Just be patient, son. Do everything to win her back."


    "Has she really forgotten me? "


    "Definitely, not. Because she is still angry?"


    "Could it be true that she already has someone else? " He asked but, somehow, she wished her answer would be no.


    "Perhaps...but the fact that her family name wasn''t changed yet, it means, she is still single. But son, I want to see my grandchild. Bring her to us. "


    "Do you also feel, nay, that the child is mine? " His eyes lit up at the thought of it.


    "Based on your story, I believe she is our granddaughter. We have this thing called, "lukso ng dugo" or parent''s instinct, son. You can feel it. "


    Ajie couldn''t understand his feelings in that moment hat he wanted to fly back to the hospital. He wouldn''t be emotionally - drawn to leave a great amount if he did not feel that "lukso ng dugo".


    Thinking about this many times, he got confused. Why was he also drawn to that unidentified man he had rescued?


    ___


    Meanwhile, at the hospital...


    "Lyz, someone came over to buy the blood. He said his name is Adrian.


    And here''s an envelope the biller sent for you. It''s from him again. "


    Anne''s eyes flickered in excitement.


    Allie did not say any word. How did he know about them? She hurriedly opened the envelope and her eyes widened in seeing it.


    "P200, 000 from him? How did he know about their daughter? "

 Chapter 24 - It Must Be Him!

    Allie cried hard when he saw the check. She was torn in between her humiliation and longing to be with him again. Perhaps, she was wrong in hurting him. Perhaps, she should have listened to him. She knew that whatever money Ajie had was not because he came from a wealthy family, though they owned hectares of lands, but from the property his parents had sold for his education. And now he''s sacrificing his educational fund for his daughter. It was for the future she knew very well that his parents dreamed for him. But how did he know about Chloe?


    Anne, who was silently watching her, wondered what''s wrong in her statement which made her cry. She wanted to ask but she was so lost in her deep thoughts. She must had forgotten that she was still there.


    "Lyz, is it about the check? "


    Allie smiled through her tears when she remembered she had left her out.


    "It''s because of that Adrian you said. He''s actually Ajie, Chloe''s father, Adrian James. "


    Anne stared at her in surprise. Of course, she knew about him but she did not expect that Allie was still hurting.


    "So, it is not true after all that he doesn''t care about you anymore while it is also not true that you are already over with him? " Anne concluded as she held her gaze at her.


    "I''m not crying because I miss him or that I want him back. I''m just being reminded of my humiliation. "


    Half of what she said was the truth. She must stand firm on what was right. A year is too long a time to hold yourself from getting in touch with someone your heart cares so much about. There''s no such thing as busy, it''s a just a matter of prioritization. So, it only meant that he did not love her enough just as he claimed before. Giving everything he had for his education would not gauge him up as a responsible father. It was only money. Generosity? Compassion, perhaps yes. Yet, it was not something that she wanted.


    Three days after that, the doctor came in with a great news.


    "Baby Chloe has completed her antibiotic regimen already so may go home today. After one month, if you are financially ready, we will do the second surgery. " The pediatric surgeon gave her a triumphant look and a big smile.


    "It''s really overwhelming to see a dying baby being healed miraculously. She will always reminds us that there is God. "


    Soon after the surgeon left, someone knocked at the door. Still smiling due to her happiness that finally they were going home, she came forward to open the door. To her suppressed excitement, Andrew was there with another bouquet of flowers, in pink and green combination of fillers. On the small card attached at the stalk, a note said, " Welcome Back Home, Baby


    Chloe. "


    "How did you know? " Allie gaped in surprise as she read the note.


    Andrew smiled as he looked at her tenderly. "It''s a secret. " Then he laughed out loud.


    Later on, he handed her a white envelope. "That''s from the proceeds of the concert . "


    Allie''s face instantly turned red as tears instantly gathered at the corner of her eyes.


    "Thank you, again. "


    Andrew reached out a hand and squeezed her shoulder.


    "You have thanked me many times already. "


    Allie suddenly remembered the check from Ajie. How could she thank him when she had long deleted his number and even blocked him? And she would never dare to make a way to reach out to him again!


    "Allie, I still have charity concerts qeueing up. "


    Allie felt overwhelmed that she blurted out rather foolishly.


    "Someday, Andrew, I would be able to pay you. " She said tearfully again.


    "I'' never ask for any return. It''s for Baby Chloe. "


    Allie then proceeded to packing up their things and in settling up their bill. Then, a nurse came over to instruct them on how to do the ileostomy care. Andrew went closer, also, and listened intently.


    "Ma''am, see to it that the fluid from this opening in her lower abdomen does not leak up into the surrounding skin. Or, else her skin would be scraped. "


    Allie nodded nervously despite the fact that she had already set her mind in learning it.


    "Don''t worry, Allie. I''ll help you with it. "


    Anne smirked secretly as she listened to them. She marveled at the speed of Andrew''s emotional attachment to her close friend. Yet, this thought made her happy. At least, she wouldn''t have to worry about her anymore.


    As all the things were safely tucked in the trunk of Andrew''s car, Allie came out of the room with Chloe in her arms. She passed by the nurses'' station and thanked them all. They were also overwhelmed with happiness that their miracle baby was finally going home.


    As Allie climbed up to the car while Andrew was holding the door for them, a taxi pulled to a stop behind them. Beside the driver was Ajie whose eyes widened in mixed emotion...


    He wanted to go out and stop them but cowardice overtook him. He remembered everything that Allie ranted and knew that she was right. That was certainly not the way to win her back, if ever she was still free and uncommited. He laughed at the thought of how determined he was when he swore a year ago.


    "If you will not be able to wait, I will take you from whoever may own you. "


    ___


    Meanwhile, all the broadcasting networks were buzzing at the sudden disappearance of the owner of the world''s top luxurious yacht - building company. During an interview, his body guards admitted that it was not the first time their boss sneaked away from them. He could always outwit them and make unpredictable escapades. He always insisted that he didn''t need body guards but her only daughter strictly insisted on it.


    His disappearance didn''t worry them at first since he would always make random flights over other countries.


    But it had been five days and still he was not back. His only daughter, Dr. Jane Lopez, decided to announce it to the media while they were also doing their search.


    While at the doctor''s lounge, Dr. Perez was watching intently on the news. How weak was their security to get tricked easily by just an old man? What kind of training did these men had? How credible were they in their designation? That was so absurd! But when the face of the man was closely focused, he suddenly sprang up to his feet!


    "It must be him! "

 Chapter 25 - The Guest

    It felt so good to be home once again. It was already a month since Chloe left this house and to think, none of the seven doctors who managed her ever gave them a faint hope that she could survive. The outcome of the second surgery was still scary and unpredictable since the damaged part of her small intestine was above the jejunum, the point where most nutrients are absorbed. Her survival would still take a miracle since the nutrients from her milk would just pass from her mouth, down to the tip of her intestine which was pulled and stitched outside her lower abdomen, even before those were being absorbed into the body. If the second surgery would be decided longer than a month after her first, she could still die due to malnutrition.


    The difficulty of her situation hit her hardly the moment she placed Chloe in her own crib beside her bed. The pads of sterile gauze which were placed around the ileostomy site became soaked with the drainage. She was already warned that once the fluid would touch Chloe''s skin, it would cause an erosion. She hurriedly removed and replaced it with new ones after applying some cream to keep the skin protected should a leak become unavoidable.


    She and her parents bid goodbye to Anne and Andrew before she sat back in her bed. It was not five minutes yet and there were the gauze pads, getting soaked again! She hurriedly changed it but then, it got soaked even before she could stretch out. The process of removing, cleaning, applying cream and placing another layers of gauze pads was almost continous, making her rest not longer than five minutes.


    How could she rest from this, how could she grab a sleep? Her parents could never digest the thought of touching the tips of her granddaughter''s intestines! They couldn''t even bear to look at it. Nurses were not around to do it for her. She could only rely at Anne to help her when she would have something important to do.


    After an hour of non - stop dressing, she got so tired and frustrated but she could not stop. Or else, it would add another injury and pain to her child. She thought of Ajie and was now wishing he would be there to help and comfort her. But she also remembered her humiliation and she just couldn''t let it pass by. Was she wrong to do it? Would she not teach him a lesson?


    Thinking hard about it, she knew she was to be blamed. She did not lack the knowledge that pre - marital sex was a great sin. It should have been enjoyed within the bond of marriage and her pregnancy would have been a joyous and exciting one. She would have not been miserable with the stigma of being a young, hiding and of being an unwed mother. Though she was accepted and forgiven by her parents, she must still suffer some consequences like enduring the burden of being alone. Though not all marriages are successful, but the percentage of being happy and excited during pregnancy is still much higher within the bond of marriage.


    After a long while of crying while changing pads, a soft knock at the door brought her back to her senses.


    She stood up to open it and saw Andrew with his packs of goodies again. He seemed to understand that she was crying as he held his gaze at her with a slight knit of his brows.


    "Let me take care of this, Lyz. Take some rest and go to sleep. " He said as he reached out to her hand and helped her stand up.


    Allie hesitated but was moved by his kindness.


    "It''s tiresome, you know. Only parents can endure this. "


    Andrew smiled at her.


    "Don''t worry, Lyz. Before I shifted to my music degree, I took up first a nursing education but then I realized I was not happy. It is always best to marry your passion. "


    Allie''s eyes sparked in relief. He was really an angel to her, appearing to lend a hand in her life''s worst moments.


    "But you have done so much


    already. " Allie voice was hoarse, indicating her unspoken gratitude.


    "Please don''t mention it. I even wish to be a part of your life. "


    Allie choked and Andrew understood it. He was even surprised why he was acting this way. He always held himself a sense of worth and pride.


    "I want to be your friend, Lyz, just a friend. " Yet, he knew that this was a rather odd feeling.


    "Thank you. " It was all Allie could say. She was grateful of his presence but there was a growing awkwardness between them.


    Allie moved to the other side of the bed and drifted off to sleep as soon as she placed her head on the pillow.


    She was just awakened up by her mother''s tender nudge.


    "Allie, Andrew is going now. He will be late for his show. "


    Allie glanced at her watch and realized she had slept too long. She hurriedly sprang to her feet and apologized.


    "I''m sorry, Andrew. Why did you just allow me to sleep long? "


    "You need it, " he paused with a smile before he went ahead, "see you at the Grand Convention Center, Lyz, tonight will be my second concert - for - a cause. We need to be ready before the due date of Chloe''s surgery. Anne will be coming over in a while to help Chloe. "


    Allie held her gaze at him for a moment.


    "Andrew, if you don''t mind, I don''t think I am needed there."


    "I mind, Allie, because..." He paused when he realized her mother was still there. She must have understood since she instantly excused herself.


    "I need an inspiration as I play. "


    Allie blurted out foolishly, unable to pick up Andrew''s hint.


    "What kind of inspiration do you need? " She asked, her expression revealed innocence.


    "It''s simply.... you, Lyza. "


    Allie was dumbstruck. This seemed not right. She wanted to speak but words would not come out. Andrew patted her shoulder with a pursed smile and left her wondering about his behavior.


    Allie checked Chloe''s dressing and when she saw that it was not soaked yet, she hurriedly took a bath. She was still in her towel when she came out of the bathroom. Just when she stepped out, her eyes widened and almost tripped herself off. Sitting on a chair before the crib, was someone she expected the least to see again.

 Chapter 26 - Two Years More

    "Ajie! Why are you here? "


    Allie shuddered at the sight of him watching the baby peacefully. How was he able to get into her room when her parents were around? He was not only too daring but was also inviting trouble for himself. Not only for himself but for both of them. He was only deepening the rift which was created the day he inclined his ear to his anger.


    He lifted up his head slightly and looked at her, his eyes were sharp and burning with suppressed fury. She returned his gaze for few seconds but she could not stand any longer. She felt she was melting, thus, she looked away to hide. No matter how cunningly she could deny her emotion under a cloak of pretense, the greater space in her heart still shouted the sweet memories they shared together. In one moment, the waves of her fury and humiliation rose up to her head and urged her to do revenge. Yet, in the next moment, she found herself fighting for her desire to hold him once again.


    She hurriedly opened her closet and picked up a dress. Then, she went back to the bathroom to change. She knew that those piercing eyes never left her and the more she got awkward.


    "Why are you here? I''m going out in a moment. " She tried hard to act camly as she faced the mirror, brushed her hair and applied a light makeup.


    Suddenly, she jumped to her feet as she remembered Chloe''s dressing, which also startled Ajie. She quickly removed the soaked pads worriedly and did the routines again. As she stood up to clean up the mess, she unintentionally glanced up at him and she saw him wincing in pain.


    "What happened to her? "The anger in his eyes was now replaced with pain and worry.


    "It''s a long story. "


    "I am willing to listen. "


    "I have no time. " Allie shrugged and dismissed him.


    "I can wait. "


    Allie sighed as she saw that there was no way she could win.


    "Now, you may go. As I said I''m going out and Anne is coming already. "


    "Who is Anne? " Ajie asked, feeling sorry as he just saw how wide was the rift between them.


    "I have no time to explain. "


    "I will wait here. Where are you going?"


    "None of your business. "


    Ajie flushed as he heard her. His heart was ripped apart as he realized the damage he had caused between them.


    Before Allie could react, he strode fast towards her and hugged her tightly from the back. With his chin above her head, he locked both of her arms beneath his.


    "I''m sorry, Allie. Please give us another chance. I know its my fault. "


    Ajie said tearfully.


    "I have no time for your drama. "She retorted as she wriggled free from his embrace.


    Angered and frustrated by her stubborness, he lifted up her small shape and pinned her to the wall. Without asking permission, he lowered down his face and kissed her deeply and savagely. To his surprise, Allie did not resist. He saw her breath deeply and tears were escaping from her eyes.


    "Let''s end this, Adrian. I don''t love you anymore. It has died down the day you refused to stand up for me. "


    "We talked about it, Allyza, and you agreed. You even promised to wait for me no matter how long. I still clearly remember that damn line of yours which makes me hold on to my own promises for you. "


    Allie''s conflicting emotions were compressing tightly in her chest that she felt she could burst in a moment. To heave it out, she suddenly laughed sardonically, taunting his patience to the core.


    "Wow, very well said. And because of that, you were not able to send me a single message. What a great love, indeed! "


    "I love you, Allie, and that I am sure. There was no one in my life, other than you. Yes, I have wronged you for that but my heart and mind was never once tainted with betrayal nor with another woman. "


    "Lyz, I''m sorry I''m late, Andrew is.. "


    Anne''s voice was reverberating in the walls as her head popped in right away into the door as she opened it without knocking.


    She suddenly gasped in surprise while her eyes were opened wide as she saw Ajie pinning her to the wall, their faces so closed to each other.


    "I''m sorry for interrupting. " She then unintentionally slammed the door behind her.


    "So, you''re going out with Andrew. Allyza, I just want to want to warn you. Don''t get deceived by his gentleness. He''s a wolf under his skin. "


    Allie retorted back at him. "Do you know him enough for you to say that? "''


    "Mark my word. "


    But he went ahead. "Two years more, Allie, and I will marry you. Just please, wait. I will come back. "


    When Ajie bent down again to claim her lips, she already lost her strength to fight back.


    "You may now go. " He said as he gave her his last gaze before he went to the crib and picked up their baby in his arms.


    Allie was caught dumbfounded as she stared at Ajie lifting up their daughter into his arms. He no longer seemed to notice that she was still there. As his eyes caught the soaked gauze pads, he placed Chloe back on the crib and began removing the old pads. He, then, cleaned the site with wet cotton balls then dried it. After it dried, he spread a tiny cream around the site before stuffing gauze pads around it.


    "How did you know it? "Allie was really surprised at his mastery in doing it.


    "I went to see her doctor and a nurse patiently taught me how. "


    "Ajie, forgive me for sinning against our relationship. I have loved someone else and Chloe is our daughter. " She said nonchalantly, trying to look sorry.


    Ajie nodded with an amused look.


    "Really. "

 Chapter 27 - I Owe You

    Allie found Anne in the living room. She seemed occupied with something in her phone but she hurriedly looked up when she sensed her coming.


    "Anne, I owe you so many things already. Thank you so much for coming again. " Allie said with utmost sincerity.


    Anne grinned while her eyes wandered over to someone behind her.


    "Thank me when all these are over. We still have a very long way to go. "


    Allie followed her eyes and as she looked over her shoulder, she saw Ajie towering above her.


    "Anne, this is Ajie, " she said as she shifted her gaze from her to Ajie, then, while still fixing her eyes at him, she went ahead, " Jie, this is Anne, my close friend.


    Ajie smiled warmly at Anne as he reached out a hand to shake hers. Then, looking back into Allie''s eyes, he went ahead. "Anne is your close friend but who am I to you? "


    "Anne, he''s my ex - boyfriend. " She rolled her eyes as she said it while Ajie sighed hopelessly.


    "Anne, thanks for taking care of our daughter. Just found out about it. I will be right back."


    "How dare you own her? "Allie snapped and glared at him.


    Ajie did not reply right away. He just reached out and pat her head.


    "Because you''re not good enough in hiding. "


    Allie blushed while Anne giggled. Frustrated and ashamed, she stormed out of the door. Just as she stepped out, she saw her parents sitting down on a bench outside the house.


    "Ma, Pa, have you two seen Ajie and allowed him inside or is he sneaking into the house? "


    Her mom hesitated but went on anyway. "He came to talk to us."


    "And you let him in? I thought you both hate him." She taunted, the feeling of humiliation and pain engulfed her again.


    "Because you need him." Allie''s father spoke up since her mother was suddenly lost for words.


    "And you also told him about... "


    "Our daughter..." Allie got startled when Ajie''s voice suddenly broke in.


    "Even if they do not, I had my ways to find it out. "


    Allie ignored him and looked back at her parents.


    "I have survived and I don''t need him anymore. " She paused for a while to see their response before she excused herself and left.


    Allie''s father stood up and placed a hand over Ajie''s shoulders.


    "It''s our fault, Jie. Please widen your understanding and patience. It was not easy for her to go with the pregnancy alone while grieving for your loss and her humiliation for what we did. Then, there were pressures in her work and studies. And now, there''s Chloe. Even before Chloe got sick, we still woke her up from crying during sleep. And we also saw her crying many times even during daytime. "


    "I understand, uncle. "


    ____


    The function hall were already full when Allie arrived but Andrew met her by the door again and ushered her to a seat before a small table in the front. There was again a bouquet of flowers and a box of chocolates on top of it. Even before reading the card, she knew it was for her.


    "Lyz...the flowers are for my special and beautiful guest tonight. She''s in her little black dress. " He smiled with that gentle looks of his which could captivate a hundred hearts.


    Allie smiled back weakly at him. "Thanks, Andrew. "


    "So, I''ll be leaving you again. See you around later. "


    _____


    When the time struck at exactly seven, a voice from the PA system announced the playing of the national anthem and everyone stood up. It was then followed by a short invocation through a song titled, "The Prayer".


    Then, the lady of the ceremony came up. With her eloquence and gracefulness, she tuned the crowd''s hearts ahead to the highlight of the event.


    ''The concert tonight, as announced, is for our love to share to a little child who is an object of God''s miracle...."


    Shortly after that, as everyone was seated comfortably, Andrew climbed up to the stage in his navy blue tux and brown, leather shoes. After making a bow, he sat elegantly again before a huge and glossy, black grand piano. Closing his eyes, he spread his long fingers through the keys then ran through it wonderfully as he played the piece titled, "The Battle of Jericho."


    The splendid combination of different rhythms and tempos and the beauty of the music itself captivated the innermost chambers of the hearts of the crowd. The opening piece was just too perfect a choice to set the mood of eveyone all throughout the event.


    As Andrew played on his next pieces, the crowd rode in to the high and low beautiful tides of the music and got themselves lost into their short journey of musical adventure. Allie got herself lost, as well, and her thoughts wandered to the mysteries of Andrew. His dedication for Chloe''s fund - raising, the flowers, the foods and, lately, his sweet words...Could it be an implication that he was falling for her?


    Right after the first part of the concert ended, intermission numbers followed and ended with the presentation of Chloe''s case. From the start of the second part down to the finale, photos of Chloe flashed into the screen in between scenes of magnificent views of nature. Again, the crowd was moved and humbled by this objective and after the concert ended, they demanded for envelopes to place their donations for Chloe''s surgery.


    One of those who dropped an envelope approached Andrew as he headed towards Chloe. He recognized her right away as she was always present in almost all of his concerts.


    "Dr. Lopez, thanks for coming


    again. "


    "Who could ever resist the magic in your hands? " She grinned as she extend a hand to shake with his.


    "I''m so honored by your presence every time... "


    Dr. Lopez replied him with just her smile. What she said next startled, not just him, but Allie as well.


    "Mr. Andrew, may I see the child? "

 Chapter 28 - Paper Roses

    Andrew was dumfounded. He just couldn''t believe what he heard. He even felt he wasn''t worthy of her presence during his concerts, how much more if she would insist to let him accompany her in seeing the child?


    Dr. Jane Lopez was an epitome of beauty and intelligence. She was one of the world''s few gifted individuals who were accelerated into multiple levels ahead than her actual age. Her presence in every gathering was better described as captivating rather than intimidating. Her smiles shone like a sun in a gloomy day, casting thousand happy spells into weary hearts. And one of those who were secretly mesmerized by her charm was Andrew. Only that she was too unreachable. She could only live and exist in his dreams as desiring her was like wanting to reach out a shining star in the midst of a beautiful night.


    "Really, doc? " Andrew confirmed as he kept his stares into her beautiful eyes.


    "Yes, Mr. Andrew. Is it possible? "


    "S - sure. Here''s Miss Allyza, Chloe''s mom. " He glanced and smiled at Allie as he introduced her to Dr. Jane.


    Allie stood up to acknowledge her presence as she understood that she was someone from a higher society as displayed in her outward attributes.


    "Miss Allyza, please call me Jane. May I see your lovely daughter, please?"


    Allie shivered as she heard her but she was still able to manage a smile. She heard very well when Andrew called her Dr. Lopez and also saw the awkwardness in his reactions as he talked to her.


    "Sure, doc. Where will I bring her so that you may see her? "


    "No, no. I and Mr. Andrew will go to your house if it''s okay with you. "


    She grinned widely as she ran her eyes towards the two of them.


    "Okay, doc. Just let me know. "She replied nervously as she couldn''t imagine her stepping into their doorstep.


    Dr. Jane turned to Andrew. " Mr. Andrew, can you please pick me up tomorrow at my office at around 5 in the afternoon? It''s in Beautiful Haven. "


    "Got it, doc. "


    Beautiful Haven is a learning institution which used the School of Tomorrow curriculum. It was also one of the schools which offered an Individualized Education Program. The whole facility was designed physically, not as a school but as a beautiful home. Once one would be at the entrance, a vast stretch of a kaliedoscopic garden would meet the eyes and to the eyes of the children, it was an enchanting playground.


    The School of Tomorrow curriculum is an individual-instruction approach that allows each student to work on his own level of achievement, which may vary from subject to subject.


    Whereas, the Individualized Education Program (IEP) is the basic component of special education programs for children with learning disorders and other types of disabilities. It entails some scopes which address a child''s individualism and his/her unique ways of learning.


    Having seen the contrast of the advanced paces of gifted children between mentally - challenged individuals, Dr. Jane one day felt a profound desire to help and guide these types of children to achieve a great leap of changes and improvement through a special education program which cater their needs. Thus, the birth of Beautiful Haven under her directorship and advocacy.


    ____


    While in the car as Andrew brought her home, Allie wasn''t able to hold her curiousity.


    "She''s so beautiful. Is she a public figure? "


    Andrew glanced at her as she was fumbling mindlessly on the petals of the flowers.


    "She is the daughter of Sir Angelo Lopez, the world''s top luxury yacht builder. She is always featured in different magazines due to her beauty and brilliance as the youngest Filipino who acquired her Ph.D at age 18. "


    Allie instantly felt so awed by the information.


    " It''s an honor indeed that you are well - recognized by her. "


    "I don''t know either why she''s always present at my concert. "


    "It could mean that she likes you. "


    Flattered about the thought of it, he became thrilled and sparks of excitement glowed in his eyes. Yet, while he got lost in his thoughts for a moment, his eyes were unintentionally strayed at Allie that he was quickly reverted to his deeper purpose in establishing a relationship with her.


    "You''re far more beautiful than her. Her wealth is the only thing which sets her at an advantage. "


    "Don''t flatter me, Mr. Andrew. " She mimicked Dr. Jane and with this, Andrew burst into laughter.


    All throughout the rest of their trip towards home, he stole side glances at her and wondered if he would go ahead with this mission or be true to himself. She was not difficult to love at all. She certainly possess unique charms which were incomparable with others. Even with Dr. Jane herself.


    As soon as he pulled to a stop in front of Allie''s house, Andrew saw again that perfect sillhoutte of the man he saw at the hospital''s entrance few days ago.


    "Allie, someone is waiting for you. "


    Andrew sometimes called her by her nickname and at times, he called her just as how Anne did.


    "She''s Adrian, my daughter''s father. "


    She calmly replied, her face devoid of any expression.


    "If it''s not too much to ask, why was he not around at the hospital? And would it be alright for him to see you with me? "


    Allie chuckled out loudly. " Certainly not, " but she quickly added, "but there is no reason for him to be angry, right? "


    "There is, Allyza. " He said while fixing his gaze beyond the stirring wheel.


    "W-what do you mean? " She stammered.


    "I''m...I''m beginning to like you. "


    Allie choked for a moment before she gathered her courage to ignore it.


    "Liking is not bad at all. I even like many people...like Dr. Jane, like


    you..."


    " I hope you will understand what I mean. "


    He alighted himself quickly after this and strode towards her side of the door to open it.


    "Good night, Lyz. Thank you so much for the wonderful night of being with you. " He spoke rather loudly, loud enough to be heard.


    "Good night, Andrew. Thanks again for your thoughtfulness and for all the efforts you have for baby


    Chloe. "


    ___


    Allie walked straight towards the door pretending not to see Ajie who was standing at the dark corner. As she turned on the knob, Ajie''s big hand stopped her. He looked down at her then lingered on the roses.


    "I hope you won''t faint on the day that you will learn that these are just paper roses. "

 Chapter 29 - The Visit

    "I''m tired, Adrian. Please let me in. "


    She decided to avoid any arguments with him because he was not the only one who would be hurting in the process but also herself. Every single whip she leashed at him would only strike back at her twice. All because she would be reminded of her struggles, of her pain and of those times when waiting for another day to come was like conquering the tallest mountain. Now, that she had survived and had been used to his absence, she no longer wanted to start all over again. She no longer wanted to hope when it would only mean hurting in the end.


    "Allie, please talk to me. "


    "Let me get in first. "


    "Promise me, first. "


    Thinking of Anne who was waiting for them, she sighed and gave up.


    "Let''s both get inside. "


    When Anne left few minutes later, Ajie got hopeful. He thought he already got the chance to mend up with her.


    "Just go to sleep. I''ll take care of Chloe. I will just wake you up when it''s time for breastfeeding. "


    " Are you trying to pay me with it? I can do it. I can survive all by


    myself. " Allie promised herself to speak calmly as she had thought of ending whatever ties they had, once and for all.


    Ajie did not reply anymore. This conversation seemed to lead nowhere. With that angry lines of hers just now, he realized that this was still not the right time yet to settle things out, contrary to what he hoped for earlier. However, he could also not afford to leave it longer as he dreaded the possibility that the longer she would be spending her time with Andrew, she would be lured into his advances. If only she would listen...


    After every dressing, he would stand up and go to the living room, avoiding to talk to her. He waited until she fell asleep before he stayed with her daugher, carrying her into his arms and feeding her with milk formula instead of waking Allie up.


    In the morning, Allie''s mom woke her up.


    "Allie, you need to do the dressing yourself now. "


    She looked around and glanced at her watch. It was then she realized that she fell asleep the whole night.


    "Where''s Ajie, ma? " She couldn''t help but ask, feeling guilty for making him sleepless the whole night.


    "He said he has work interviews this morning. "


    Work interviews? Ajie was applying for work? Why? Then, she remembered that he gave a big amount for Chloe''s medical expenses. It could only mean that he


    was already running out of budget.


    ____


    At Beautiful Haven


    Andrew felt that his heart was already drowned by the loud thuds of his pulses. He couldn''t imagine how he would feel when Dr. Jane would sit beside him in his own car. It was such an honor of a lifetime to be able to personally serve someone who was looked up by the world.


    As cars were not aloud inside the school campus, he just waited by the entrance for Dr.Jane to come out. Lost in his thoughts, he was unaware that she was already around.


    "Daydreaming? " A big smile erupted in her face as she caught him drifting into his imaginations.


    "D-dr. Jane... " He stammered as he suddenly felt ashamed.


    "Andrew, let''s go. " She smiled and her charm mesmerized him once again.


    An hour drive to Allie''s place felt like just few seconds as Dr. Jane was very good in carrying out a conversation, stripping off the sense of awkwardness he felt inside.


    They got so hooked up with topics of their common interests, not realizing that they were already in Allie''s house. And just as how shaky as Andrew was, the same nervousness was heaping in Allie''s heart.


    "Please, come in, doc. " Allie greeted them with a wide grin before she ushered them into the living room where Chloe''s crib was placed.


    Dr. Jane''s eyes fell right away to the child and instantly, drops of tears gathered in the corners of her eyes. She couldn''t understand herself. Of the many sick children she had seen, this was ever the first time she got so emotional. Even during the first time she watched those video clips Andrew played during his concerts, she already felt drawn towards her.


    "Miss Allyza, may I carry the child in my arms? "


    "Sure, doc. " Allie replied, too awed by the fact of her seemingly too sudden attachment to her daughter.


    "You''re sooo cute! " She mumbled happily as she lifted the baby into her arms.


    And soon, she drifted into a different world where it seemed that only she and Chloe existed.


    Placing the baby reluctantly back into her crib for her change of dressing, she turned to Allie.


    "Miss Lyz, if you won''t mind, may I ask about something sensitive?"


    "Go ahead, doc. " Allie said, her beatings became faster.


    "Is her dad not around? "


    Before Allie could think of an answer, a voice broke into their silence.


    "I was not around when this happened, doc. She chose to hide her pregnancy. If it were not for a certain incident, I would have not found out. "


    All eyes turned to him. While Allie glared at him and Andrew cast his angry glances, Dr. Jane got fascinated. She stared at him intently as if she remembered something. Then, then her eyes sparked in excitement.


    "For a while, you look familiar. Your Adrian James, right? "

 Chapter 30 - The Mystery

    "You''re Adrian James Gonzaga, right? " She looked at him with a triumphant expression.


    Ajie froze in his place, wondering why she knew him. Though he spent two years in college in this city but he didn''t have many friends as his world rotated only around studies and Allie.


    "Yes, but I am better known as Ajie. Allie only call me by that name when she is angry. " A smile broke out in his face as he moved his eyes to her, to Dr. Jane''s amusement.


    "How sweet of you." She said as her eyes flickered with thrill.


    " By the way, I cannot wait for another day to talk to you. Can you please see me at my office later? "


    "I''m already nervous. " Ajie admitted openly which pleased Dr. Jane more.


    Then she turned to Allie. "Miss Lyz, can you lend me Ajie for a while? I just want to treat Andrew a dinner first then I will talk to him afterwards. "


    "He''s the one to decide, doc. " She said awkwardly though a weak smile remained plastered in her face.


    "Lover''s quarrel? " Dr. Jane chuckled out loudly.


    "I really wonder how it feels to love and to be loved. " She blurted out carelessly which perhaps made her regret right afterwards.


    "Perhaps because you''re choosy and intimidating." There was honesty in Ajie''s tone though he seemed to be joking.


    Dr. Jane laughed out loud, no one had ever dared to tell her that.


    "I like your straightforwardness, Mr. Adrian James. I guess we could be great friends from now on. "


    "As long as you call me Ajie, doc. "


    "That''s if you will also call me Jane. "


    "Deal. Now, go and have dinner with Andrew. I can''t wait to know what is it that you want to talk about. "


    A jolly conversation was then carried on since Ajie matched the enthusiasm Dr. Jane initiated. Allie and Andrew may had joined in but both of them were still uncomfortable with her presence.


    This side of Ajie was new to Allie. Perhaps because in the past, she was his sole companion. She knew he was a top grader and an awardee


    but she had never seen him in a group interaction. It never occured to her that he was very good in carrying out a conversation and in sharing brilliant ideas. His sense of humour perked in and she felt she did not knew him anymore.


    Dr. Jane was indeed enjoying. She grew up in full formalities and all her life, she was treated with utmost respect. All the people she came across with spoke to her with great care. Ajie was the first stranger who joked around with her. And she was liking it.


    Andrew, on the other hand, was not happy. He felt flattered and proud to be admired by a somebody like Dr.Jane but after witnessing how their conversation went on, his spirit was dampened. He just couldn''t accept that a mere eloquence would topple down his glory.


    Andrew cast him a stolen glance. Until when was he going to defeat him? He was already defeated in the past and it seemed that he was also defeating him again in the present. And in this new game he had just started to play, it looked like he was losing again.


    He deepened his stolen stares at him and exclaimed, " Adrian James, let''s play on, it''s not game over yet! "


    ___


    While inside an expensive restaurant Dr. Jane had booked for them, Andrew also tried to bring out a pleasant atmosphere. He talked about music and any interesting things he could think to which Dr. Jane listened attentively. The longer he talked to her, the more he got confused. She displayed the same enthusiasm she showed with Ajie earlier. Did she have a personality disorder? Why did it seem that she easily like men? Didn''t she hinted earlier that she''s not into any relationship yet?


    "Doc, would you have no problem with your boyfriend if you go out with someone else? "


    Dr. Jane laughed. "I have no boyfriend yet but I think I''m into someone. "


    "He must be so fortunate, doc. "


    "No, it''s just the same way around. "


    It only took them an hour and a half to finish their dinner and soon, Andrew dropped her in the campus.


    "Til next, Mr. Andrew. Thank you so much. "She said as soon as she got out from the car.


    "I am already looking forward, doc. "


    He replied, feeling his self on the ninth cloud.


    She waved him a hand before she went inside the gate. Andrew did not leave right away until a taxi pulled over. He was already expecting who would alight from it. He rolled down the window as soon as the taxi left. He quickly looked around and saw that the surroundings was already very quiet.


    "Adrian, let''s play a fair game. " Ajie turned to his direction and looked at him calmly.


    "I told you many times, Andrew, that there is no reason to compete. Just learn to accept and move on. "


    With this, Andrew zoomed out and disappeared from Ajie''s sight in just a second.


    A guard came out from the gate and approached Ajie who was still staring at the road.


    "Mr. Ajie? "


    Ajie snapped back to reality when he heard him and he smiled.


    "Yes. "


    "Please, come with me. "


    He followed the guard through the sprawling garden of beautiful flowers and rows of trees. Then, at the far side, rows of buildings came into view. Once they reached the first one, the guard led him to one of the doors. He then knocked and without waiting for an answer, he opened the door.


    "Ajie, come in. "


    Dr. Jane was seated behind her desk when he stepped inside. A warm smile welcomed him as she gestured for him sit down in front of her. He breathed heavily as he fixed his eyes at her, wondering what kind of drama awaited him. He already anticipated that it must be something related to Andrew.


    Dr. Jane''s smile came wider as she sensed his unnecessary nervousness.


    "Adrian, we had daddy''s case investigated to rule out a foul play but nothing showed except for the presented cause of his accident. Fortunately, he woke up and confirmed everything. "


    Ajie furrowed his brows as he listened to her. He still did not understand.


    "The man you saved in the shore is my dad. We do not know how to thank you enough since gratitude, especially that it involves a life, can never be paid. "


    "How did you know it was me? "

 Chapter 31 - The Revelation

    " Since we had the incident under investigation, so the hospital disclosed necessary informations and of course, it includes your name. Fortunately, dad woke up before you were called up for the interrogation. " Dr. Jane started her task of explaining.


    "And why did you recognize me? "


    "Ajie, we are already in a digital era so finding someone''s whereabouts is as easy as eating a lollipop. We also looked into the CCTV. "


    "I see. " He smiled and then laughed about his lack of common sense.


    "We just can''t thank you enough for your kindness. I can''t imagine yourself running the distance from the shore towards the main road with a heavy man in your arms. "


    Then, she became teary - eyed.


    "Then you took him to the hospital, shouldered the expenses and left a great amount. Not only that, you also donated your blood. "


    "Ajie, if it''s not because of you, I would have been left alone in this world. Tell me, what do you want in life? In what ways can we repay you? " Dr. Jane was already struggling to hold back her urge to cry.


    "I''m not asking for a payment. "


    "I know but at least we can show you our gratitude. "


    " The only favor I would ask from you is to bring me to him once he is okay. "


    "Sure, Jie. I will keep in touch. "


    Then, Dr. Jane handed him an envelope.


    "Please accept this as our token of gratitude. And I would like to tell you this ahead. To refuse this offer would be an insult to us. "


    Ajie chuckled out loudly.


    "How can I refuse now when you''re being treacherous? "


    It was now Dr. Jane''s turn to laugh.


    "Go, open it. "


    Ajie glanced up at her before he opened the envelope. He pulled out a piece of paper and read it. He almost dropped the paper after reading it. It was a deed of transfer of ownership of a five - door - apartment located in a subdivision near a university.


    "Dr. Jane...this is too much. " He wanted to refuse but Dr. Jane had already warned him ahead.


    A spark of amusement lit up her eyes. She saw him turning pale as he scanned through that piece of paper. If only he knew that she deposited P100M in his account, perhaps, he would collapse. That was not even enough. If he didn''t hesitate to give his P200, 000 when it was his all, how much more for them?


    " Ajie, you need a source of income to provide for your family and most especially, for baby Chloe . You may also move in and occupy the two units while you can have the rest for rent. One unit for you and Allie, the second one for Allie''s parents. "


    "But Allie has not forgiven me yet. It would need much convincing for them to move in. "


    Never did Ajie anticipate that on that night, he would end up telling his whole story to Jane, except the fact that he was an adopted child. He didn''t understand why he easily opened up to a complete stranger. Perhaps because, she was such a good listener and he needed someone to listen.


    "Now, it''s my turn to pay you back for listening. So, I''m going to return this property. "


    "Don''t be riduculous. That is called blessings. Dad is a billionaire so the price of that property is just a cent for him. If you don''t need it, give it to your daughter. "


    "Who is your dad? " Ajie asked mindlessly.


    "Angelo Lopez."


    Ajie''s eyes widened in surprise. So, this woman was a somebody in the higher society and he talked to her just as a common person? He even confided his secrets just as a close friend. He shuddered at the


    thought...


    "I''m sorry, Dr. Jane. "


    "Jane, I told you..."


    "Jane... why did you say that if it was not because of me, you would be left alone? Where''s your mother? Your siblings? "


    Jane sighed. She guessed it was her turn to confide.


    " I have a little brother but he was lost when he was young. They searched for him and spent their fortune in the search but he just couldn''t be found. We just hope and pray until now that may he is still alive and in good hands. "


    "Mom was not able to accept his loss and... "


    Ajie stared at her and did not blink. All of a sudden, he felt his heartbeats were hammering into his chest.


    "I''m sorry, Jie. I cannot tell you about it. "


    He nodded. "I understand. "


    "Can you imagine that I grow up without a mother and a brother? What if you were not there when daddy fell into the rocks? " Jane couldn''t hold her tears anymore.


    "God arranges our steps so He sent me ahead. " Ajie assured her and emphasized that his dad''s rescue was not about luck.


    Jane was now crying that she hid her face with both of her hands.


    She was one of those whom the world looked up as one of the most fortunate being in the world. All because she garnered almost all the wonders and best things in life. From being a gifted child to her unparalleled beauty, from her unwithering fame to her fortune. Yet, oblivious to the world, she had suffered a lonely life.

 Chapter 32 - The Regret

    It was almost midnight already and Ajie had not come back yet. Allie''s mind was already in a mess. What took him so long? Why did Dr. Jane want to talk to him? She recalled their earlier scene as they conversed. It seemed that they instantly got comfortable with each other. Perhaps because brilliant minds always find themselves on the same ground of interests.


    Her phone sounded as a notification popped up. It was from Andrew.


    "Lyz, is Adrian around already? "


    "Not yet. "


    "What took him so long, Lyz? "


    "I don''t know. "


    "You better tell him to be careful with Dr. Jane. She seemed to be so close with many men. And now she''s into him. "


    "Andrew, what do you mean? "


    " Perhaps, I am just being so paranoid, Lyz. Forget it. "


    "Please..."


    "It''s nothing, Lyz. But all I can say is that you better not give all your trust to Adrian. Be vigilant. He''s not.. "


    Something in his statement struck her ear. It seemed that he mentioned his name casually, as if they were old friends.


    "Andrew, have you known Ajie beforehand? "


    "No, I''m referring to all boyfriends as a whole."


    "I see. Goodnight, Andrew..." She smiled as she said it but when she lifted up her head, her eyes caught Ajie standing by the doorway.


    She placed down her phone nonchalantly and stood up to change Chloe''s dressings.


    "Let me do it. Just go to sleep. " He said it though his eyelids were already drooping down and his face looked tired.


    Allie stared at him, waiting for him to flare up. He caught her talking to Andrew and she saw the hurt in his eyes when she bid him goodnight.But he didn''t. Instead, he told her to go to sleep. Was this his way of making up for those whole year of not showing up?


    She lied down on the bed pretending to go to sleep. She watched him leaning his back on the chair with his head on the wall as he closed his eyes. But every five minutes he would stand up to change the dressing. And before her alarm sounded every three hours for feeding, he stood up ahead of her and fed his daughter.


    In the morning after she did her morning routines, she caught him looking at her. She paused from what she was doing and returned his gaze.


    "Allie, may I catch some sleep , even just for two hours?"


    "You may sleep all you want. "


    Ajie gave a pursed smile, kissed the baby and left. Allie wondered where he was staying but she couldn''t dare to ask. He came back after lunch and resumed to his dressing routines until three in the afternoon. At about 1 am, he returned.


    This routine went on for the whole week and Allie speculated that he was meeting Dr.Jane every 4pm to 12 am. Perhaps, he was just here for the child. Perhaps, he was already giving up on the hope that they could still be reconciled. And perhaps, he was already starting to like her.


    ___


    When Saturday morning came, Andrew called her up.


    "Allie, I will be performing again tonight. You may not go there, no matter how I wished you would, because Anne wouldn''t be available that long. And because as you said, Adrian would disappear every afternoon until midnight. "


    "But Allie, can you please give me an inspiration before I play? Can we have dinner together?"


    Allie wanted to refuse but because he would be doing it for Chloe, she couldn''t dare to make Andrew feel bad.


    At six in the evening, Allie was already with Andrew in a restaurant. While chatting about anything happily with him, a waiter came up to serve the food Andrew ordered ahead. To her surprise when she looked up, it was Ajie.


    He looked down at her and gave her a pursed smile though that same hurt feelings still showed in his eyes.


    He looked so tired and she knew why. Ajie only took short naps the whole week while she drifted into her dreamland for long hours. Only to know that those times she thought she was spending with Dr. Jane was actually spent in working in this restaurant. And he was getting this summer job because he was already running out of school budget.


    Allie got so bothered and guilty. She already wanted to apologize. He had already shown his willingness to pay the price of neglecting her. But she was too stubborn. She even went out to dine with Andrew. And no matter how angry she was, she knew she still loved him.


    When her clock sounded at 1 am, she stood up. She would open the door for him. But an hour had passed and then another and another until the morning came but Ajie did not come. She unblocked him and tried to call him up but her calls were not picked up.

 Chapter 33 - In One Condition

    "Andrew, I''m so worried. Ajie has not come home. " Allie sent him a message when she couldn''t contain her worries anymore.


    "He''s maybe just tired. Didn''t he send you a message?"


    "He did not. "


    "Hasn''t Dr. Jane invited him again? "


    Allie''s heart raced upon the mention of her name. She was the only possible person he could spend with. And they seemed to get along well with each other.


    She called him again but he was still not picking up. Fear was now seizing her heart. Where was he? If ever he would come back, she would never let him go again.


    Afternoon came and still there was no signs of Ajie. She was already crying in regret. Then, she thought of Dr. Jane. Come what may! She would just try. If she would reject her, at least she tried. She remembered that she mentioned Beautiful Haven. She hurriedly looked into its contact number and called up.


    "Thanks for calling Beautiful Haven. This is Miss Rico speaking, how may I help you? "


    "This is Miss Allyza Reyes, calling for Dr. Jane Lopez. May I talk to her, please?"


    "Allie, Jane speaking... " Allie heard her chuckled on the other line.


    Allie suddenly shivered. Her voice, somehow, intimidated her. And she knew that the purpose of this call was something irrelevant.


    "Dr. Jane, please forgive me for calling. I know this has nothing to do with you but I also couldn''t think of someone Ajie might have communicated with. I''m just hoping that perhaps he happened to tell you where he is. He''s not also reporting to his work. "


    "What? Ajie is working? " Dr. Jane was surprised. With a great amount in his account, he didn''t have to work but rather do business!


    "Where is he working? "


    " In Cesar''s Garden Restaurant. "


    "For a while. I''ll try to check on him. "


    Hearing her said that, her knees weakened and trembled. She would be checking on him? And she knew where he is? How soon...


    Breathing deeply to relax, she inclined her ear carefully so as not to miss anything suspicious. She heard a ringing of a phone. Dr. Jane must had placed it into a speaker mode. After several rings, a click was heard. She held her breath...


    "Adrian, what''s happening? Why are you not picking up right away? "


    "I''m sorry, Jane...I was asleep since I arrived at 1 am. "


    Jane...And he spoke her name comfortably as if he was long used to it.


    "Where have you been? "


    "At work... "


    "My goodness, Ajie. You don''t need to work. "


    " I need more income for my studies and for my family. "


    "Check your account, I have returned your money. And besides... ah, never mind. Let''s talk


    personally. "


    "Thanks. "


    "Adrian, it''s already afternoon. You''re not eating? "


    "I''m too tired. "


    "Sick? "


    "Just a little fever. "


    "Don''t worry, I''m coming. "


    "Don''t bother. I''m okay. Thank you so much. "


    "What''s okay? Don''t joke around! "


    Allie almost fainted after hearing it all. How soon had they got into a relationship? What were they talking about? What''s with the money? The account? And he''s sick? She''s coming over? Why did she know where he lived? It was supposedly her duties to take care of him!


    Then, Dr. Jane''s voice broke into the line again.


    "Allie, see you at the entrance of the university. I''ll pick you up in thirty minutes. "


    Torn in jealousy and guilt, she just couldn''t stop herself from crying. She no longer had time to call for Anne so she decided to bring Chloe along.


    She hurriedly changed and before the thirty minutes was over, she was already standing in the university entrance with Chloe.


    After few minutes, a black car stopped and it''s window was opened.


    "Allie, please come inside. " Only Dr. Jane''s eyes were brought into view but Allie recognized her right away.


    She smiled and immediately got in, her eyebags were still bright red and puffing.


    "Crying so much?" Dr. Jane smiled as she noticed her eye bags. " By the way, Allie, why do you bring baby Chloe? "


    "I have no one to ask..." She then explained about the continous dressing and that no one else would do it except her and Ajie.


    Dr. Jane shook her head. "That''s maybe why Ajie got sick. Later on, if this will go on, you will also get sick. If you won''t mind, I will hire nurses to help you during the night so that both of you can rest well. Anyway, we only have three more weeks left before the second surgery. "


    "Thanks, doc. " She did not argue. Aside from her need to rest, refusing an offer is an insult.


    "In one condition..."


    Allie stared at her and her heart was pounding once again. What will be the condition? Would it be about him?


    "Move in with Ajie. "


    "What? "


    Dr. Jane just smiled. "We'' re here. "


    Allie looked up and she saw that they parked in front of a rental complex. A red signage was placed in bold letters. "FOR RENT". The whole building looked elegant in its contemporary design and it had five doors which were numbered from 1 to 5. She now understood that Ajie was staying here. But this looked expensive and his salary wouldn''t be enough to pay the rent. Who was paying the rent? Dr. Jane? They talked about money a while ago. Could it really be her? The loud thumpings of her heartbeats aggravated the complicated emotions she was feeling right now.


    She followed Dr.Jane with a heavy heart. There were moments where she wanted to trace back her steps. Everything was already obvious! Why did she still bring her here?


    After pressing on the doorbell, the door was opened. Allie intentionally did not follow right away to give them some "moments". She decided that her coming here would no longer be about reconciliation but about clearing things between them. It would be best to make a graceful exit so that moving on wouldn''t be that difficult anymore. Just who was she against the power of Dr. Jane?


    She saw Dr. Jane peeped out at the door when she perhaps realized that she was not following.


    She walked a little faster and pretended to be okay. Then, she heard her speaking to him.


    "Adrian, what are you doing? Look at your sweetheart''s eyes! "


    "Allie is here? " He then stood up and his eyes widened in seeing her puffing eyes and nose with Chloe in her arms.

 Chapter 34 - Give Me Your Daughters Hand

    Ajie strode fast towards Allie and hurriedly picked up Chloe from her arms. He furrowed his brows as he looked into her eyes but he did not say anything. He then placed Chloe on the play pen at the side of the couch.


    Allie was already sitting on the couch when Ajie stood up. He then approached her and lifted up her chin, making her look up to him.


    "What happened to you? "


    Allie looked away, being hurt and humiliated. She was crying her heart out worrying for him but then, he was not even thinking about them.


    "Adrian, how insensitive you are! Allie is already crying her eyes out because you did not go home and now you are asking what happened to her? " Dr. Jane rolled her eyes out as she looked at his innocent expression.


    Ajie gaped at this realization. How insensitive indeed he was but he was really ill. He hurriedly pulled her into his chest and apologized a hundred times!


    " I''m really sorry, dear. I fainted while on duty and I was already in the ambulance when I woke up. Instead of bringing me to the hospital, I insisted to be brought here. I was only awakened by the phone''s ringing. "


    As soon as she got sympathy and comfort, her urge to cry became uncontrollable. Setting her inhibitions aside, she sobbed her heart out, forgetting that Dr. Jane was there. Her crying was no longer about Ajie''s inappearance but about the non - healing wound in her heart which started the day Ajie left. The depth of her pain, the troubling insecurities and her fears resurfaced, making her sobbing difficult to end.


    After thirty minutes, the doorbell sounded. Dr. Jane opened the door as Allie was still not done with her crying. When a woman in white came in, Ajie and Allie looked up and wondered.


    "Ajie, Allie, she''s Miss Allain, daddy''s private nurse. I requested her to come since daddy is still in the hospital. Show her the dressing materials and , both of you, go up to your room and rest. "


    Ajie got so overwhelmed. "You are already returning much but I like this idea. Jane, thank you so much. " Ajie held her arm as he looked at her. His eyes were full of overwhelming gratitude.


    "Nothing compared to what you have done. I have to go now so that you two can mend up. "


    Dr. Jane hugged them both and left. Few minutes after while Allie was instructing Miss Allaine, the doorbell sounded again. They both looked at each other and wondered. Ajie stood up and when he opened the door, a man in red cap stood smiling at them.


    "Sir, here''s your food delivery. "


    ___


    After Ajie did her a quick tour at the rooms upstairs and the terrace, he brought her to the master''s bedroom. It was well - furnished with a queen - sized bed and other furnitures in latest contemporary designs. The paintings, the carpet and the interior design as a whole were feminine as it was supposedly Dr. Jane''s resting place or a place to hang out with her friends everytime she would be at the city. Situated on the hillside, her homeplace was about a thirty - minute to an hour drive from the city.


    "The second door to the fifth door are vacant. Choose what door you like so that you can move in with your parents but I would prefer that you chose the next door. "


    "Once we can get married, move in with me here. This will be our room. But when I will be successful, I''ll build you a bigger and more beautiful one. " Allie became teary - eyed again as he held her while telling this promise. She was already crying but still she felt she just couldn''t cry enough.


    Ajie then faced and cupped her face with his two hands.


    "Am I already forgiven? "


    Allie smiled despite the tears which came running one after another.


    "How can I ever give you up? When it is only you in my heart... "


    Ajie pulled her tightly in an embrace once again. Tears fell from his eyes but he quickly brushed it away. He regretted the day when he allowed himself to be carried away by anger, humiliation and wounded pride. Because of this, he missed Allie''s pregnancy, her labor and delivery.


    "By the way, how did you know I was here? "


    "Because I was looking for you. It scared me so much when you did not go home. "


    Ajie''s eyes softened and he hugged her once more. "I''m really sorry, Allie. Always know that I love you and nothing can change it. And I am willing to wait until you can forgive me. "


    "But you hold so many secrets. What will now happen to Dr. Jane? "


    "Happen what? "


    "She loves you, doesn''t she? " She looked at him squarely, casting down her fears and suspicions.


    Ajie laughed at her. "You still have not grown up, my dear. You''re an intelligent woman, right? Why do you doubt so much? "


    Alie pouted. She had cried so much at this suspicions and what justice could it have when it only ended as a joke?


    Ajie lifted her up into the bed and without further delay, he filled his thirst and hunger for her the whole night until her lips and body became sore. They then fell exhausted by past midnight. And as they huddled close to each other after an exhausting encounter, it made both of them sleep until noon time.


    Never did they know that Miss Allaine had already cried to Dr. Jane and requested for two relievers!


    By the time they finally woke up, Allie got an almost hundred missed calls from her parents. He looked at Ajie with a scared and worried face.


    "Let''s go to your parents. "


    In less than an hour while grabbing only some finger foods, they arrived at Allie''s home.


    "Where have you been, Allyza? And where is your daughter? Don''t you know that we were so scared and worried? Even if you are already at the right age, we still deserve your respect! " Allie''s mother was already fuming with anger.


    Allie was also shaking in guilt and fear that she almost cried.


    " Ma, please forgive me. Honestly, I went to look for Ajie yesterday when he did not go home and Dr. Jane brought me to his apartment only to find him sick. So I did not go home and slept with him. "


    "Allie, are you not afraid of doing pre - marital sex again? Look at Chloe now, are you not afraid that this could happen again? "


    Allie was already trembling with her mother''s statement. She could not allow it to happen again. She glanced at Ajie who, in turn, reached out for her hand and squeezed it.


    "For the second time, auntie and uncle, " he paused as he sincerely looked at each of them, " I am asking you this. Please give me your daughter''s hand. I may not be succesful yet but I cannot allow my daughter to grow up without a father. "


    "We are about to compulsorily demand for that. Only that you said it ahead!"


    "You both go now to the Civil Registrar''s Office. Be sure to get married before Chloe''s second surgery. " Allie''s father demanded.


    "Exactly. You''re not allowed to sleep together again before the wedding. "

 Chapter 35 - Meeting With Mr. Lopez

    While waiting for the release of the marriage license, Ajie went home to inform his parents about his coming marriage. The old couple was overjoyed and they packed right away to go down with him to the city.


    "Nay, Tay, are you ready to face Allie''s parents? " Ajie was finally able to voice out his concern about their family''s contention. He was hesitant to ask about it since it was never a simple matter before.


    Issa smiled and patted his head.


    "We were hurt then but as parents ourselves we understood. You are both too young, indeed, to get married. And if we were also Allie''s parents, we would also be hesitant to entrust our only daughter to a man whose families are notorious. "


    "Son, to keep a grudge is never good. Words of wisdom have us advised to let not the sun go down upon our anger. Because anger always grab our happiness and our peace of mind."


    "Take what happened to you as an example. Because of your anger, you almost missed your daughter.You almost wasted the good times both you and Allie shared before. "


    Ajie reflected on this and, indeed, his mom was right. Because of his anger, he displaced it to Allie who was helpless and undeserving of his hatred. He treated her like she''s someone who had the fault and even forgot her for a year. He only realized his grave mistake when he first saw her daughter in her pitiful condition. He only realized how much he lost when he saw Allie with bouquets of flowers from another man. And he only felt the consequence when he saw how humiliated and hurt Allie was.


    ___


    With the help of Dr. Jane who surprisingly volunteered to do the preparation for the wedding while they were complying for the requirements, their wedding was set in three weeks. And during that span of time where Ajie''s parents waited for the date, they also got the chance to be reconciled with Allie''s parents and the chance to be able to bond with their grandchild. Nothing was more fulfilling in Ajie''s eyes in those days than seeing both of their parents in good terms with each other. Because their peace and friendship could also mean his and Allie''s happiness.


    Three days before the wedding, Ajie received a call from Jane.


    "Ajie, dad would like to meet you first thing tomorrow. He would be discharged today and it is his wish to see you right away. "


    "Give me your address and I will go to your place tomorrow. "


    "I will rather send someone to fetch you. "


    At about ten in the morning, a silver car pulled over in front of Ajie''s place. A tall, dark man in robust appearance alighted from it then walked towards the fifth door and pressed on the door view cam. As soon as the door opened, he spoke his intention like a robot with no affection.


    "I am Paul, the personal driver of Sir Lopez, being sent here for Mr. Ajie


    Gonzaga. " His voice was like a patterned electronic recording.


    Leo, who was chatting with Ajie in the living room, jumped to his feet upon hearing him.


    "Come again? " He squinted his eyes as he stared at the man.


    "Yes, sir. I''m here for Mr. Gonzaga. "


    The man repeated his last line.


    "It''s not what I mean. What did you say first? " Leo was almost tempted to grab his collar for being too slow in picking up.


    "I''m being sent her by Mr. Lopez?


    Yes, Mr. Angelo Lopez. "


    Leo''s eyes widened as he stared at the man while his thoughts flew back to that time his cousin handed him the calling card.


    Ajie noticed his reactions and the changes of his expressions.


    "Why, Tay? Do you happened to know Mr. Lopez? " Ajie asked, being curious of his dad''s unexpected reaction.


    Leo quickly regained his composure.


    " I just can''t believe my ears. You are


    summoned by a legend of the business industry? "


    Ajie now thought he understood his father''s reaction. While it was too difficult to catch Mr. Lopez even in private interviews, he was actually going to see him soon. And it was such an honor to be summoned by someone like him.


    However, it was oblivious to everyone around including Ajie, that since that day, Leo no longer had a peaceful sleep...


    "We will talk about this later when I''ll be back, Tay. "


    Sitting beside the driver, Ajie watched silently the picturesques of the roadside as it shifted from lively city views to tranquil surroundings as they moved towards the outskirt of the city. Feasting his eyes in these rich greeneries, his thoughts flew back to that moment at the shore. Who would ever thought that the man he rescued turned out to be a somebody in the society? And he was not just a somebody but he was


    Mr. Angelo Lopez, the man behind the world''s most luxurious yachts and ships.


    The moment Ajie stepped down from the car, Jane went out and met him by the door. With a big smile, she then held his arm and brought him towards the other door across the main entrance. When she opened it as she led the way, he gaped at the splendid sight! What spread out before him was a beautiful garden with well - crafted landscapes!


    In a white gazeebo not far from them , he saw a man in white shirt settling down in a wooden sun lounger. He straightened up immediately as he saw them coming.


    "Ajie, this is dad, the famous Angelo Lopez. " She paused as she ran her eyes from him then to her dad.


    Ajie smiled politely and bowed in respect.


    "And dad, this is Ajie, your saviour. "


    "Good morning, sir! I''m so happy that you are well now. "


    "Ajie! How can I thank you enough?" His face instantly twitched as his tears immediately gathered in the corners of his eyes.


    "Your fast recovery is my reward,


    sir. And besides, Dr. Jane has already given me a very big gift in which I am too ashamed and hesitant to accept. "


    Mr. Lopez chuckled out. "That is just Jane''s gift. And I also don''t want to be refused with mine because nobody has ever turned down yet the offer of Mr. Angelo Lopez. Got it? "


    The smile of Ajie died down in his lips. He was already trembling. Seeing his reaction, Mr. Lopez got amused. He then stood up and tapped his shoulder.


    "May I hug you, boy? "


    Without waiting for an answer, Mr. Lopez stretched out his arm and hugged him. To Ajie''s surprise, he did not release him right away. He, instead, felt his shoulders moved. Only to realize that he was sobbing.

 Chapter 36 - Every Womans Dream

    Feeling the depth of his emotion and carried away by the tide of his melancholy, Ajie was also moved to tears. And while he felt the warmth of his embrace, all of a sudden, there was a strange feeling which welled up inside him. It was somewhat like a deep longing and a sense of missing someone dear to his life whom he hadn''t seen for years. He also recalled that drawing, odd feeling which prevailed inside him in that moment he saw him unconscious on the shore. With this and his current surge of emotion, he also sobbed.


    "What''s happening to both of you? "


    Jane, who was watching them from the start, also got carried away.


    She began sniffling in her tears without really understanding what was going on. Looking at Ajie, she also felt it strange why she easily got comfortable with him. Perhaps because of that brother image she saw in him. Because until now, she was wishing she had grown up with a brother.


    After a long while, Mr. Lopez released him and he laughed.


    "I''m sorry for the emotions, Jie. It''s because I lost a son about your age. And I see him in you now though I couldn''t imagine how he would exactly look like today. His loss caused an irreparable damage within us as a family. He was our first baby and, naturally, the excitement of his coming was overwhelming, only to lose him afterwards. Yet, I don''t give up my hope until today. I still believe he''s in good hands. "


    "I understand, sir. " He smiled, almost tempted to tell them that he was also a lost child. Only that he didn''t have that sense of loneliness because he was loved and pampered so much by his adoptive parents.


    "Come, I have prepared a special lunch for us. It is my way of thanking God for sending you on that day ahead to give me chance to live again. "


    Then, Jane butted in. She had not informed him that aside from him, they also had other guests.


    "Jie, dad has invited someone from the media for an interview. It''s up to you to reveal yourself or not. We will respect your decision. "


    Ajie felt awkward and he smiled sheepishly. "I''m not ready for any publicity, yet. "


    "No problem. "


    In the function room situated at the northern wing of the big house, the camera man and another crew had already put up the interview set up. Few feet beyond a long table which was full of food, a small coffee table with the glass wall at the background was placed, along with two seats. Beyond the glass wall, a kaliedoscopic view of the garden could be well reflected. It would give the viewers an impression of a very elegant household.


    Without further ado, Mr. Lopez and the interviewer sat across each other at the coffee table. When the light of the camera was turned on, the interviewer started throwing his questions.


    "Mr. Lopez, kindly tell us what happened in that afternoon by the shore."


    Without being conscious of being recorded, Mr. Lopez answered the question fluently.


    "How were you able to escape from your bodyguards? "


    Mr. Lopez let out a cultured laugh.


    "That''s a secret. There''s no sweeter thing in this world than freedom. "


    "Mr. Lopez, granting that no one suspected when you escaped from your guards, how were you able to get help? "


    Mr. Lopez shifted instantly to a melancholic state.


    "God saw the incident ahead and he sent someone. He was just strolling to get some fresh air when he saw me fell down on a mossy boulder. He picked me up in his arms and ran towards the main road before he was able to get a help to call an ambulance. "


    "Once the rescuers arrived, what did this someone do? "


    "He went with me to the hospital, shouldered the expenses for my surgery and my ICU admission. "


    "That was such a miracle, Mr. Lopez. What else did he do? " The journalist asked further.


    "He donated me a blood and left a big amount for further expenses. "


    "This is such an unbelievable incident, Sir Lopez. Who is this someone? Is he a relative? A man with influence? Or, a businessman who knows you very well? "


    "He doesn''t know me at all. He is still a student, about my daughter''s age. He spent for my hospitalization his parent''s budget for his schooling. Because of this, he ended up taking a summer job in order to further provide for his tuition and other school expenses. " Mr. Lopez was already holding his urge to cry.


    "Such kind of person is one in a million. What prompt him to do this for you? "


    "Out of the pure intention of his heart. "


    "Such an admirable trait, Mr. Lopez. You said, he is about your daughter''s age. Wouldn''t you wish that your daughter may find someone like him?"


    "If I could decide for my daughter, I would do all means to get them married. Why not? To know that my precious daughter would be in the hand of someone like him, would make me go in peace someday. "


    "Exactly, Mr. Lopez. Last question, can you please describe him? "


    " Tall, fair and very handsome. He''s every woman''s dream."


    Watching the interview at the side, Jane giggled at his father''s answer while feeling clumsy at the fact that Ajie was there beside her.


    Ajie felt the same awkwardness. They were no ordinary people. It''s too flattering to hear that Mr. Lopez, one of the richest people in the country, would want an ordinary man like him for his daugher?

 Chapter 37 - The Gift

    After the interview, lunch followed. They gathered on the long table and discussed many things about business , drug campaign and politics. Getting bored on such topics, Jane stood up, went to the dessert table and picked up two slices of black sambo in separate small plates.


    "Jie, try this. My favorite hors d''oeuvre. " She said as she put down the plate in front of Ajie.


    Ajie picked up a fork and took a bite.


    Watching him chew, she eagerly waited for him to comment on the taste. They didn''t know that all eyes were secretly glancing at them.


    "Yummy, right?" Jane couldn''t almost wait for his answer.


    Ajie nodded but his expression was not convincing.


    "Wait. " She stood up again and brought a slice of blueberry cheesecake.


    "How about this? Try. " Her eyes glowed in anticipation that he would also like it.


    "Yes. "


    "What''s yes? Which one is


    yummier? " She chuckled softly in frustration.


    Ajie bent down and whispered in her ear. "I''m sorry I''m not used to this kind of food. I''m only used to boiled sweet potatoes and bananas in our home in the mountain. "


    Jane laughed out loudly which also made Ajie laughed, though a bit embarrassed.


    "Don''t worry, I''ll make you get used to it. I''ll take you to different restaurants and coffee shops. We''ll try buffet, fine dining, etc. "


    Watching them secretly, Mr. Lopez saw how happy her daughter was. And he was happier in thinking of ways to make her joy last forever...


    "Dr. Jane, you two look great together. You''re both beautiful and your physical traits complement each other so well. "


    Ajie blushed while Jane giggled.


    "Mr. Journalist, make sure I will not read that comment in a magazine. Or else, I''d be killed by Ajie''s girlfriend. "


    Mr. Angelo''s face sanked. Ajie had a girlfriend already? He''s s too young!


    When the media team left, Mr. Angelo brought back the topic. He couldn''t accept in his heart how his chance was easily wasted.


    "Jie, is it true that you already had a girlfriend? "


    "Why do you ask, dad? "


    "It''s because I also believe that you are a good pair together, right Jie? "


    Jane laughed as she looked at Ajie. "I''m sorry, Adrian for their bad thoughts. "


    Then, she turned to her dad. "Dad, Ajie is getting married already. They even have a four - month -old baby. "


    Mr. Angelo stared at them in disbelief. "You''re still too young, Adrian. Are you really decided or are you just being obliged to marry her because of the baby? "


    "We were supposed to get married last year, sir, but her parents objected. "


    "Yes, they are right. Studies first. By the way, what do you want in life? What is your wildest dream? " Mr. Angelo further asked.


    "Sir, I want to be the builder of the biggest and the most beautiful ship in the world someday. " He never laughed at all when he said it.


    Mr. Angelo''s eyes instantly lit up. "Great, Adrian. Finish your studies first then start building your dream right then. I''ll provide you the necessary things to get your dream laid out. Don''t you know that I am employing hundreds of ship builders


    and designers? "


    "I have heard about it long time ago, sir. And perhaps the reason why our paths are brought together, is because of our common love for sea vessels. "


    Mr. Angelo fixed his gaze at him for a long time and pondered on what he said. Then, he nodded.


    "You''re right. I have just realized that and I believe this is not just a coincidence."


    "Do you know that we also called our lost son as ''Ajie''? And Adrian James as his full name? "He laughed softly at the coincidence. He couldn''t still believe how things turned out.


    "And, Adrian, can you please ask your parents what made them decide to give you "Adrian James" as your name? "


    "Dad, I know it. Because the movie, "Adrian James" became very famous. Perhaps, Ajie''s parents were also inspired by it and decided to name him after the main character. Just as you did. "


    Ajie chuckled out softly. "Really, there was a movie like that? "


    "Yes, and daddy even invested into that movie because that was the real life story of Adrian James,


    one of his loyal captains who lost his life during one of his voyages. "


    "So sad. "


    "Indeed. And few days after the release of the movie, my big brother was born. Thus, that''s how my brother got his name. " Her eyes flickered as she spoke.


    "Now, Adrian, I believe we are really fated for each other. We both love marine vessels and we exactly have similar dream when I was your age. After I graduated in college, I keep on moving to different companies until I found the right one. I certainly have not become the famous Angelo Lopez overnight."


    Ajie was so moved as he gazed back unblinkingly at him. He swore it in his heart. He would really work hard for his dreams and be the one he wished to be.


    Mr. Lopez watched him as he got lost in his thoughts. He saw those determination in his eyes. And such potentials and determination were exactly how he saw in himself before when he was still aspiring to become successful.


    "Ajie, would your early marriage be not a hindrance to your dreams? "


    Ajie smiled respectfully. "They will be my inspiration, sir. After I will be able to complete my degree, I will come to you. "


    Mr. Angelo was really touched deeper than his mere admiration of Ajie''s personality.There was really something about him that made him want to get closer to him. He surprisingly wanted to let him know that he wanted to give him his full support and guidance in the realization of his dream.


    "No, you don''t have to come to me because I will be with you all the way from now on. Let''s talk more about it next time."


    Ajie froze in his seat as he heard him. Was he dreaming? The person who became legendary in marine vessel prowess was going to support him all the way?


    He snapped back to reality when he felt that his shoulders were pulled into a warm hug. He instantly felt a lump in his throat that he wanted to cry hard at the moment. That hug was reassuring and so warm. So warm and tender like a father''s hug to a lost son...


    Mr. Lopez walked him to his parking area at the side of the house with Jane. Then, that robotic, personal driver appeared before them the moment they reached the parking space.


    "Bring the car over, Paul. " Mr. Lopez ordered as soon as he saw him.


    "Right now, sir. "


    In few minutes, a glossy, black and brand new car, wrapped in blue ribbons, appeared in their front. Ajie''s eyes were then drawn to its classical and handsome features and he gazed at it admiringly. He wondered how it would feel to be able to buy all the things you want in life. Perhaps, Mr. Lopez bought this latest edition which defined BMW''s largest sedan just for his collection.


    "You like it? "Mr. Angelo smiled as he asked. He saw the admiration in his eyes as he stared at it.


    "Yes, sir. A very nice one. Someday, I will be able to buy dream cars such as this one. " He answered him while his eyes remained fixed at the big bulk in front of him.


    Ajie then felt a light tap in his shoulder. He quicky glanced over it and when he looked up, he was met by Mr. Angelo''s bright smile. He then handed him a brown envelope and bunch of keys.


    "This is my gift for you. "

 Chapter 38 - She Is Your Sister

    When Ajie returned home, everyone was in the living room, watching the afternoon TV Patrol Program. One of the special features that afternoon was about Mr. Lopez'' interview about the story of his rescue. When the interview was finally aired, Ajie was standing beside Allie in the sofa while his arm was clawing in her shoulders.


    " Dr. Jane, perhaps, get her looks from his mom. " Allie commented while she was staring at the TV screen.


    "Perhaps. " Ajie shortly replied.


    " Have you seen her?" She made a quick glance at him while she squeezed his hand as it hang below her neck.


    "I have not. They''re hiding something about her and it''s too personal to ask. "


    Everyone around was so drawn emotionally as they watched the program intently. And they all agreed with Mr. Lopez when he said that if only he could decide, he would do everything to have him married to his daughter.


    Ajie laughed in amusement as the presentation ended with the statement of Mr. Lopez, "he''s every woman''s dream". It''s too flattering. Unfortunately, his heart was not for every woman.


    The program host also announced that after this interview was posted on social media by the news department, it went viral and instantly got million views and thousands of comments. The viewers were in chaos. Their cry and demand was to show them how this rescuer looked like, most especially because he was described by Mr. Lopez as "tall, fair, handsome and every woman''s dream. Their curiousity killed them, not only because of his physical attributes but also because of the greatness of his heart. No man could ever do such kindness towards a complete stranger.


    Leo was no longer comfortable in his seat. Perhaps this interview had something to do with Ajie''s meeting with Mr. Lopez.


    A student... spending his school allotment... summer job...These gave away some clues pertaining to his personal background.


    He cast stolen, side glances at him, not wanting to miss any hint from his conversation with Allie.


    "Dear, I''m also thrilled to know who this rescuer is. Has Dr. Jane happened to tell you about him? And I agree that every father would surely desire for that kind of man for their daughters, right? " Allie muttered as she bit the side of his palm.


    Ajie moved and he fully hugged her tightly from her back, his chin resting at the top of her head.


    "You won''t be happy once you know who he is. " He laughed softly, to Allie''s bewilderment, then kissed her head afterwards.


    "Why? Because it''s an


    exaggeration? "


    "Because he will soon be married to Miss Allyza Reyes. " His eyes sparked in amusement then laughed as he felt her stiffened in his embrace.


    "Adrian! Why are you hiding so many things from me?" She pulled down his arms and faced him.


    "Because you were still angry. And I am afraid to spoil your mood again with this story. "


    "I already know it! My suspicions are true after all. " Leo interrupted with full confidence.


    "How, Tay? "


    "Because of your meeting with him this morning. "


    Ajie pursed a smile as his father made a correct guess but he became guilty as well like a thief being caught in the act of stealing.


    "I''m sorry, Tay. I wanted to tell you from the very beginning but I was afraid then. "


    Leo walked towards him and patted his shoulder.


    "I''m so proud of you, son. I''m happy that you are brought to him in an unexpected way. It is also an advantage on your part because he can help you with your dreams as he is the man behind ships and yachts. But there is one thing I would like to remind you of..."


    "What is it, dad? " He sighed at the relief that he wasn''t scolded.


    "Stay away from his daughter. "


    Leo was almost tempted to say , "because she is your sister", but he tried to hold on to the secret because he was afraid. Afraid that Ajie would harbor hatred at them and afraid for their own lives the moment Mr. Lopez would know that he intentionally kept him. Their lives wouldn''t be enough to pay their grief, their guilt and their pain.


    Issa and the rest were dumbfounded when Ajie told them the whole story. Even without the rewards which he never expected at all, he was glad it happened because the incident led him to find Allie again.


    Allie''s parents felt remorse and guilt as they heard him. They judged him as one of the trouble - makers and killers, not knowing how fortunate they were to have a son-in-law like him. It is indeed wrong to judge a book by its cover.


    Mary stood up and held Ajie''s arm.


    " Jie, hearing your story now makes me even guiltier. I pray that you can really forgive us. Someday, as a parent yourself, you will come to understand why we were reacting that way. "


    Sam also stepped in, feeling the same magnitude of guilt his wife must had felt at the moment.


    "Right, Jie. Though not much was spoken on my part but I could have controlled the situation. I just hope that you can forgive and forget. "


    "I am also suffering the same guilt. And it is Allie who suffered the most. So, auntie, uncle, let''s forgive each other and start a new beginning. "


    They then took turns in emotionally hugging each other. With so much tears being shed at that moment, all the pain and grudges they each kept inside flowed out with their tears and dried out forgotten as it were blown dry by the wind.


    Time passed by quickly and soon they were gathered at a hotel garden. White and blue chairs and table sprawled out in the garden and a long, navy blue wedding carpet was spread out towards the make - shift altar. Flower stands in the corners and rows of floral columns lined up the two sides of the blue aisle. Beautiful floral centerpieces were laid out perfectly in each table. Though the preparation of this wedding was not long enough, the set up was simply magical.


    With only few guests invited, the special gathering was graced by Mr. Lopez and by the coordinator herself, Dr. Jane. Though he was the only person not happy in this wedding, Andrew was there to grace the event with his magical fingers. He just could not refuse Dr. Jane''s invitation. As the Canon in D Major by Pachelbel flowed out into the air, Ajie, Dino as the best man and the minister walked into the aisle.


    Following them was Ajie''s parents then Jane as the maid of honor.


    Then, the music changed into a different piece as Andrew''s fingers danced over the keys to play the famous Wagner''s Lohengrin''s bridal march.


    Allie, in her cream white bridal gown, then stepped into the blue carpet. She looked so beautiful in her strapless and mermaid wedding dress design. With light makeup which enhanced her natural beauty and a dress cut which made her perfect curves flaunt, she walked like an enchanting goddess on a summer sky.

 Chapter 39 - The Wedding

    The hotel management got an unexpected headache in this wedding. Though they received an information that Mr. Lopez and his daughter were attending the event, they did not demand for a special treatment. As a respect and as an obligation to ensure their safety, the management tightened their security management.


    However, an unexpected call in the midst of the ceremony put them in so much stress. PDEA Director General Alfonso and his team were coming to witness the event and pay their respect to the bride. Though he was no powerful than Mr. Lopez himself but he had too many open and silent enemies, waiting for their chance to execute their evil plan. His presence in any place brought more danger than honor itself. Thus, stressing out the security department.


    Mr. Lopez watched Ajie closely during the ceremony. He''s yet so young but he behaved and acted like several years ahead of his actual age. His demeanor was never a threat to a possibility of a broken home in the soon future whose decision to marry was just because of an infatuation. He looked sincere and responsible. His parents, he thought, must be so fortunate to have a son like him. And how fortunate her daughter would have been if only she was not too late in knowing him!


    " With the power vested upon me, I now pronounce you as Mr. & Mrs. Adrian James Gonzaga..."


    The defeaning round of applause brought Mr. Lopez back to his senses and he joined his hands as well to applaud for them. He looked around with a polite smile as he cheered for them, only to be stunned by the presence of his close friend he had not seen for a long while. Director General Alfonso waved a hand at him and gave him a look which indicated that he wished to talk to him later.


    During the reception, the two VIP''s sat together in one table, separate from the one designated for the principal sponsors and the special guests.


    "Why are you here, Angelo? It''s such a surprise to see you here. "


    Mr. Angelo chuckled softly. "Alfonso boy, you''re not really keeping yourself abreast of the latest incidences your friend has been


    into."


    "Which one? You''re always on the headline. "


    Mr. Angelo shook his head and laughed. " You must had happened to hear that I''d been into an accident in the shores of Kamelyo. "


    "Yes, yes, of course. I even visited you in the ICU. And how come this wedding got related to that accident?"


    "Someone saw and saved me. And my savior is the groom." He then narrated everything to him who gaped in awe of the miracle of his rescue.


    "You still have a great mission in life, Angelo because you are miraculously saved. "


    "I think so, too. And why are you also here? " Mr. Lopez returned his question a while ago.


    "Because the bride is Dino''s bestfriend. "


    "Yes, I watched him during the ceremony. "


    Their conversation was interrupted when the newly - weds approached them as they did a table hopping pictorial.


    "Congratulations, Ajie and Allie! You both looked beautiful. " Mr. Angelo greeted both of them with a hug.


    "Thank you, sir. It is such an honor to have both of you here. " Ajie respectfully recognized their presence. Allie likewise thanked them shyly.


    "If you did not save me, I wouldn''t have been a witness to this wonderful wedding ceremony. " He said as he chuckled softly.


    Director General Alfonso then stood up to congratulate them as well.


    "Miss Allie, let me take this opportunity to thank you personally for that great contribution you have secretly done. Dino is promoted and Kamelyo has returned to a peaceful state it once had been. "


    "My pleasure, sir! For the peace our people has always longed for. " She smiled and gave a wink at Dino who was approaching them.


    Andrew, who was continously releasing beautiful and romantic music into the background, inclined his ears to them. None of the two dignitaries ever suspected that every topic they tackled, did not escape from his ears.


    Soon, the waiters began serving them wine as they both got lost into their world. Fully engrossed with their endless subjects, Mr. Lopez and General Alfonso did not know that the ceremony had long been ended and that the rest of the guests had already left. The couple had already changed into their reception attire and were also got absorbed in their conversation with Dr. Jane, Dino, Jane and Andrew in the next table. However, no one of them knew that Andrew intentionally chose a seat close to the two VIP''s and his ear was constantly inclined to his eavesdropping.


    "Angelo, how come you were able to buy that area in Kamelyo which used to be the mega shabu lab? "


    "Because Mr. Dioko, one of those foreigners who were arrested, sold it to me. He was the owner of the shipping lines where I used to work when I graduated in college. I was really hurting for him when it happened because he was the one who believed in me. If not because of him, I would not be the Angelo Lopez I am today. "


    Director General Alfonso gasped. Whoever would think that the wholesome Angelo Lopez would be linked to one of the world''s most wanted druglord?


    "Angelo, were you not able to advise him to stop his illegal business? He is already very rich. " Alfonso held his gaze at him widely.


    "It''s because of his circle of friends. It''s very complicated, you know. Once you''re in it, you will forever be in it. The jail, somehow, serves as his place of freedom. "


    " Their operation had been so horrible. Kamelyo had been monopolized by them in disguise of factory workers or office workers. Only to know that even their children were trained to swallow drug packets. Of its thousands of population, 99% of them were drug mules, transporting drugs to different parts of the country through their bodies. "


    "Yes, I know that. " Mr. Angelo confirmed sadly.


    " And did you know that Allie''s family is one of those few families who were not involved?"

 Chapter 40 - Exposed

    "Allie lived in Kamelyo? " Mr. Lopez was greatly surprised. No wonder, he thought, why Ajie was at the shore when he fell.


    "Allie grew up in Kamelyo and some of their close neighbors were Ajie''s relatives.That''s how the couple first met. "


    Mr. Lopez gaped at such information and with the fact that Alfonso knew much about her background.


    "You seem to know so much about her. "


    Alfonso chuckled out loudly. "Of course, she''s my Dino''s bestfriend. "


    Dino walked in towards the men when he heard his name while calling out the women to follow him.


    "Come here, everyone. Let''s gather and talk, talk, talk... " He yelled out over his shoulder.


    Before the women came over, Mr. Lopez reached out his hand to him.


    " Congratulations, boy! You make us so proud of you! Conquering Kamelyo is a very difficult task. "


    "Thanks, uncle. " Dino respectfully replied while reaching out to shake a hand with him.


    Alfonso, now drunk, butted in.


    "We''re also thankful to his bestfriend for the great help. That''s why we are here to personally show our gratitude. If not because of her, tracing their deepest secrets would take a millenium to discover. Who would suspect such a child who grow up in their kind of life, to be the destroyer of their kingdom? Of course, she can always go in and out of their den... "


    Before Dino had come to his senses and realized that Alfonso was already disclosing a very confidential matter that would pose a great risk for Allie, he had already said much and couldn''t be taken back anymore.


    "Uncle, you have already taken so much wine. " He tried to interrupt him but Mr. Lopez already grasped the main truth.


    "You mean Allie? "


    Through the meaningful stare Dino cast at him, Alfonso realized his mistake.


    "Angelo, Dino is right. I''m already a little drunk. I think I should go home now. "


    "There''s no problem with that, Dino is here. "


    As Dr. Jane and Anne stood up to join the rest, Andrew reached out under the table and held Allie''s hand.


    "For a while, Lyz, I have something important to tell you. "


    Allie smiled, oblivious to what had been going on, and sat down again.


    "What is it? You have also decided to get married? " She teased and let out a little laugh.


    "This is something serious, Lyz. Can we move on to the next table? " The next table he meant was a little farther from them and they could talk without being heard.


    Ajie saw them and felt alarmed, but because of the important people around him, he got no choice but observed them through his peripheral vision.


    "Lyz, I don''t know about your story but I have sensed danger through the conversation of our VIPs here. "


    Allie creased her brows as she looked at him.


    " I have heard that Kamelyo''s previous drug den is sold to Mr. Lopez and he is now using it as his shipyard. The owner is one of the leaders of that great drug syndicate who happens to be the owner of a shipping line who helped Mr. Lopez achieve who he is today. "


    Allie remained staring at him while her heart started to thump faster.


    "So, you see, Allyza, Mr. Lopez is indebted to this man and would surely avenge for his doom. Now, because General Alfonso is already drunk, he disclosed a very confidential matter that it was you who gave the lead to their dark secrets to Dino, thus, their arrest. "


    "Can you see my point? Now, think about this and plan for your secret escape. "


    Allyza nodded and took a deep breath to calm herself before she walked towards the rest and sat beside Ajie. Andrew followed but only to excuse himself to go ahead. No one knew that in their less than five minute talk, a bomb exploded right in the very core of Allie''s heart.


    Ajie looked down at her worriedly, suspecting that Andrew must had said something to her which caused a change in her expression. He wrapped his hand with hers under the table then pulled her closer so that she could lean her back on him.


    "Ajie, as a wedding gift, I would like you to continue your studies in Japan where our largest manufacturing facility is located. Start to expose and involve yourself in the construction process so that you can start envisioning the design and the size of the ship you want to build in the future. "


    Then he fixed a gaze at Allie. "You may also go with him and start a business. Or, if you wish to stay with your daughter, you can always visit him anytime you wish. Anyway, Japan is just few hours away. "


    Ajie pulled Allie even closer and looked into her eyes tenderly. Then, he turned to Mr. Lopez again.


    "We will talk about that, sir. Thank you so much for the offer. "


    It was already past midnight when they decided to part ways. Their conversation was warm and interesting but none of it was instilled into Allie''s heart.


    As soon as they were back into the wedding suite, Ajie did not wait another second to ask what bothered her. Allie sat down at the edge of the bed right away, seemingly not minding the beautiful wedding set up of roses, candles and laces.


    "What did Andrew tell you? " He said as he removed a strand of her hair which covered her face.


    "It''a about the conversation of Mr. Lopez and Director General


    Alfonso. "


    He turned her shoulders sideward to expose her back and began unzipping her dress while his eyes remained fixed at her.


    "I''m exposed, Adrian. What will happen to me now? " An expression of fear was now revealing in her eyes.


    "Stand up, first. " He did not answer her yet, as his focus was divided in pulling down her dress completely.


    "What''s exposed? Your loveliness? " He said as he ran his eyes all over her.


    "Adrian, I''m serious. " She pouted.


    "I''m sorry. "


    As her dress dropped down to the floor, he began unhooking her top cover then removed the straps from her shoulders. Her bare inverted cups stood full, upturned and inviting.


    "What do you mean by exposed? " He asked further while he bent down to pull down her white undies, completely baring her perfectly - shaped body.


    "Mr. Dioko, one of the owners of Kamelyo mega lab is a friend of Mr. Lopez. He''s not just a friend but he is the owner of the shipping line who helped him achieve his dreams. "


    Ajie furrowed his brows as he listened to her, at the same time, stripping off his clothes to the floor.


    "Andrew said he heard General Alfonso exposing me to him. "


    Ajie nodded and he began kissing her slowly and deeply. He stopped after a long while and placed his hands at the edge of her shoulders.


    "I was there but Dino stopped him. "


    "Yes, he stopped him but Mr. Lopez already got the idea that I was the lead. " She held her breath after saying this as Ajie was now nibbling at her pink, upturned tips.


    "Jie, can you please stop first for a while? " She said as she pulled his hand which was cupping her other mound.


    " Just go ahead, I''m listening. " He then straightened up and lifted her up into the bed, placing her head on the soft pillow.


    "What if Mr. Lopez would go against me to avenge for the man who helped him become what he is today? "


    "I don''t think so. We can talk to him about that. Don''t believe everything Andrew tells you. "


    "You seem to know Andrew..."


    "Yes. " He said as he hovered over her, his eyes so full of desire.


    "You never told me about it. " Allie complained.


    "I will, in fact, there are too many things I want to tell you about him. "


    "Then, start now!"


    "Please, Allie, don''t make him spoil our wedding night. " He said as he sucked the milk out of her engorged breast.


    Allie yelped as she burried her nails at his nape.


    "Do it fast then let''s talk. " Sensing she couldn''t stop him now, she conceded as her voice also became hoarse with equal desire.


    Happy that her mood was finally drawn towards the essence of the night, Ajie then lifted her into his arms and placed her in a scented bathtub. In his mind, he swore to let her forget all about it tonight.

 Chapter 41 - Black Logo

    Early the next morning, Allie woke up ahead. Though exhausted with the so - called special activity of their wedding night, her mind couldn''t rest. She smiled as she held his gaze at Ajie who was still peacefully sleeping. She was lucky indeed to have married the man who was described as every woman''s dream. However, she couldn''t take off her fears for being exposed.


    She slowly stood up and tiptoed out of the bedroom and went towards the terrace at the other side of the room. She picked up her phone and pressed Dino''s name.


    "Allie. " A hoarse and sleepy voice waved into the line.


    "Din, I''m so scared. "


    "Why? " Dino''s ear sharpened and he abruptly sat up.


    "General Alfonso has exposed me to Mr. Lopez. "


    Dino sighed in relief. He was already thinking about something more dreadful that may had happened to her.


    "It''s okay, Allie. I''m sure uncle would not necessarily expose you to the public. "


    "Dino, did you know that Mr. Dioko is Mr. Lopez'' close friend? He was even the one who helped Mr. Lopez in his journey towards what he is now today. What if he will take revenge on me in his behalf? His friend suffered a life sentence, Dino, the end of his world. "


    " I don''t think Mr. Lopez is as insensible as you think. He knows that his friend''s business is illegal and sooner or later, he would face his retribution. And besides, why would he put the righteous life at risk just so that he could avenge for his wicked friend?"


    "Din, we don''t know how deep is Mr. Lopez''s sense of gratitude towards him and none of us could blame him. Human as we are, we always look forward to return the favor to those we are indebted of. And just who am I to him?"


    "Ajie saved his life, so for his sake, he will not harm you. "


    "Din, have you seen the interview of Mr. Lopez? Didn''t he say that if only he could decide for her daughter, he would do everything to get them married? If I''m gone, he would have the chance, right? "


    "Don''t overthink, Allie. I am sure your fear would never happen. "


    "I''m so scared, Din. I have a daughter whom I couldn''t put at risk. "


    "I understand, Al, but it''s too early to think about it. Enjoy first your honeymoon with your husband. Don''t spoil it with your unnecessary fears. "


    Allie pondered about if for some moments. She had heard about the cruelty those caught spies suffered.


    Battered to death, dipped in a tub of water upside down, electrocuted and sexually - molested.


    What would Mr. Lopez do to her? Would she hire someone to kill her or do those things which were now going on in her mind?


    What would happen to her daughter without her then? Her parents were already old and Ajie would then be busy with his dreams and studies.


    Would she go to Mr. Lopez and beg for her life?


    So many things came up in her thoughts and the more she got frightened.


    She then remembered Andrew and called him up.


    "Lyz, what''s up? "


    " Andrew, I am thinking about what you said. "


    "What happened when I left last night? "


    "Mr. Lopez offered to sponsor Ajie''s studies in Japan so he could start exposing himself in the construction of floating vessels. She even told me I that I could go with him. "


    Andrew did not reply right away and Allie felt tortured with his silence.


    "Andrew, what are you thinking? Please talk to me. "


    She was almost hysterical as her fear heightened when she talked to him. She felt that it was only him who understood her fears. Though she knew that Ajie and Dino were more concerned about her, but she also knew that they couldn''t tell her the extremes of the consequences because they wanted to protect her emotions.


    "Lyz, whether or not you will go with him, you will still be an easy prey. Mr. Lopez can easily hunt you. "


    "So what can you suggest? "


    "If I were you, I would go out of the country, change identity and file a marriage annulment. "


    "Why would I file a marriage annulment? "


    "That''s simple, Allyza, being married to Ajie, would still enable Mr. Lopez to trace you down. "


    "Andrew, Mr. Lopez is powerful. He can have me traced anywhere in the world. "


    "With a different identity, I am sure he coudn''t easily do that."


    "How? "


    "I''ll send you an address and go there as soon as possible as long as you can promise to keep it between just the two of us. "


    "I promise, Andrew. "


    "Alright. 13th Street, Borromeo Ave. Look for an office named Black Logo. You will know what to do. "


    After Andrew had given her the address, she called up home to check Chloe. Three nurses where exchanging an eight - hour shift to take care of her. After a diagnostic test called barium enema would be performed on her, and if that certain test would prove that the certain junction of her intestines had healed, she would then undergo the second surgery. Those both ends of her intestines which were cut due to irreparable damage, and which were temporarily pulled outside and stitched below her lower abdomen called ileostomy, would then be stitched together and dropped back to its original place in the abdominal cavity.


    She then went back inside the bedroom after calling home. Seeing that Ajie was still fast asleep as it was still six in the morning and that they already slept at about four, she decided to take a bath and change.


    Borromeo Avenue was just a ten - minute drive from the hotel. Since Black Logo would only operate between 5 am to 7 am, she decided to go there right at that morning.


    Few minutes after, she found herself dropped by a taxi driver in 13th Street. The area was still very quiet but there were already people coming out from the Black Logo outlet. She looked up and read the big signage. In a black, wooden background, big, white letters read as BLACK LOGO were boldly printed. Under it were smaller letters which were read as "printing services", and below these two words, details of the printing services offered were printed in smaller letters.


    ?Four Color Printing


    ?Two Color Printing


    ?Small or Large Format Printing


    .Etc.. etc... etc..


    She went inside and a pretty, female receptionist greeted her with a warm smile.


    "Good morning, ma''am! It looks like you want special services.


    "You guess it correctly, miss. " Allie wondered at how this woman was convinced to work for an illegal company.


    "Specifics, ma''am. " The receptionist asked further.


    "Change of identity. " She answered in a determined tone.


    "Ready for the cost? "


    "Name it. "

 Chapter 42 - Change of Identity

    "Okay, ma''am. Please fill out this form and we will inform you once your papers are ready. "


    "What are those specific papers I can get? "


    "All the requirements you need in your application for delayed registration for birth certificate, high school and college diploma, Transcript Of Records, police and NBI clearances and etc. All you need in changing your identity. "


    She took a deep breath and smiled before she turned to leave. Ajie was still sleeping when she returned to the hotel so she slipped out again to see her daughter.


    Her heart sanked as she picked her up and carried in her arms. She got thinner and thinner each day and now she was skin and bones, a living skeleton. Her eyeballs sank deeper that it could no longer close when she slept. Her long and upturned nose was more emphasized since the layer of fats had disappeared.


    The reason for her malnourishment was because her nutrients were no longer all absorbed into her system. It was because the cropped part of her intestines was above the point of nutrient absorption. She needed the surgery as soon as possible or she would die from malnutrition.


    She called up the pediatric surgeon and described to him the status of Chloe so he ordered to let her undergo the barium enema the following day.


    A barium enema is a series of x-rays done to detect malformations or defect in the intestines. A barium, which is a white crystalline inorganic compound being feed to the patient before the procedure, would  show up as bright white in the picture or film when X- ray is done. It would outline the shape and contour of the colon and rectum. If there is a clear outline of the barium passing through her large intestine until the rectum, then it means that Chloe''s intestine had no more inflammations and was ready for the surgery.


    After securing the schedule, her phone rang. It was Ajie.


    "Where are you, my love ? "


    "Home, feeding Chloe. "


    "I''ll pick you up. "


    When he was in Manila, his diversion during weekends was learning to drive so he enrolled in car driving and got himself a driving license. So when Mr. Lopez gave him the car, he already knew how to drive.


    In less than thirty minutes, Ajie arrived, picked up her daughter for a while then urged her to go back with him to the hotel. He then directly brought her up to the skypark restaurant in the highest floor of the hotel.


    The top view was breathtaking. Rolling greenhills with huge trees spread out before them on one side.


    On the other side, was the view of the sparkling, blue sea . A table for two with red rose centerpiece was prepared in the middle of the man -made garden where miniature rivers, fountains and ponds made the place a beautiful dating site.


    Allie gaped at the sight but was also amused at the wonderful opportunity to experience a life like this. Someday, she swore, she would experience all the expensive and wonderful things this world could offer. She would also work hard for her dreams. It was not only Ajie who was aiming to achieve his dreams. She also had her own though she was not loud about it. She was just as silent as the saying which went around as , "deep water runs silently".


    As soon as they were seated, Ajie held her chin and looked into her eyes.


    "Want to know about Andrew? "


    "Yes. "


    "Kiss me first. "


    Allie obediently reached out a hand around his neck and pulled his head towards her for a quick smack.


    "Is that the way to kiss a husband? "


    He pretended to complain as a big grin spread across her face.


    "You bruised my lips last night so you have to abstain from kissing me until it is healed. "


    "How long? One day? "


    He soon felt his side was twisted as Allie reached out to pinch it.


    "One year! " He glared, blaming him with her looks for being hard on her last night.


    "Really? Is that how long you wait? "


    "No. I can hold for only an hour. "She said laughing, taking back her words. Then, she pulled him down to kiss him again.


    "Correction. It''s only one minute. "She giggled.


    "You''re a cheater. It''s only a


    second! " He pretended to complain.


    "Do you complain? "


    Ajie chuckled out loudly as he placed her in her lap. "Allie..."


    "Yes. "


    "Please, promise me again that you will love me forever."


    "I promise. "


    " Promise, also, that you will love no one but me only. "


    "I swear. "


    "Thank you. " He turned emotional as he said this, remembering that he almost lost her. He hugged her tighter and kissed her forehead.


    "I love you, Adrian James, though you are every woman''s dream. "


    He laughed, recalling Mr.Lopez''s description of him.


    "Unfortunately, the heart of Adrian James is only for Miss Allyza


    Reyes. "


    "Really?" She asked, now overwhelmed with her own emotions. She felt guilty of her plans but she must do it in order to live.


    "I promise. "


    Ajie, then started to tell the story about Andrew.


    "Andrew also came from our hometown. His parents died in a boat accident when he was yet seven years old. His sick grandfather from his father''s side asked my parents to adopt him but his grandparents from his mother''s side, came to bring him to their home. They took him out of guilt because they rejected his mother the day she eloped with his father. She died without seeing them again. Her wish to be forgiven was never heard and because of that, his grandparents made it up for her through her son."


    Allie held her gaze at him, almost without blinking.


    "However, Andrew was made to believe as a child that he was taken by his grandparents because my parents refused to adopt him because of me. He grew up with that resentment against me."


    "When he was in fourth year high school and I was in first year, we were both chosen to apply for a special scholarship program. However, I got it while he failed . He again felt bad at me. I understood that he needed it so everytime the financial aid was sent to me, I secretly gave it to him through our principal. We let him believe that somebody was sponsoring him. He only learned the truth when he graduated. "


    "As we couldn''t predict how our lives are being led, I met him again in the university in Manila. He was in love with a girl named Cherry. "

 Chapter 43 - Andrew

    A year ago...


    From a lounge in the hotel lobby where he was sitting down together with Cherry, he watched her stepped down from a white car. Her long, chestnut - colored hair which hang at the level of her shoulders, matched her long, curly brown lashes and her deep - brown eyes. The heart -shaped contour of her face was too small to contain her big and gentle eyes which gave the impression that she was always sleepy. She wore an emerald mini - dress which perfectly hugged her beautiful curves and dropped down above her shapely legs.


    A pair of diamond earrings, a diamond necklace which hang above her low - cut neckline and a bracelet which complemented her silver stilletos, completed her perfect reflection of beauty and sophistication.


    She walked with such gratefulness and attraction towards them that Andrew couldn''t take her eyes off her. She smiled and stopped few meters from them and Cherry stood up to hug her.


    "Mom, this is Andrew. " She said as she turned to look at Andrew who remained sitting at the couch, watching them.


    Andrew got startled at what he just heard that his eyes widened in surprise. Who would ever expect that the woman whom he couldn''t just take his eyes off was Cherry''s mom?


    Dear skies, she was far more enchanting than her daughter! In his eyes, no other woman was prettier than Cherry, only to be proved wrong at that moment. She may be in her early thirties already but she looked like few years younger than her age that Cherry appeared to be just her little sister.


    "Andrew, please meet my mom. You may call her Miss Perez. "


    "Hi, Andrew! "


    "Hello, Miss Perez. I''m so glad to meet you." He said awkwardly for being suddenly unprepared for this meeting.


    Miss Perez...the name itself worsened his fidgetting state. Who would ever think that the hotel''s general manager they were going to talk to was Cherry''s mom? She never mentioned it, perhaps she was afraid he wouldn''t go with her.


    "Likewise, Andrew. Now, both of you follow me. "


    They both followed her as she led the way towards a room which appeared to be her office. The interior design which was paneled with a dark mahogany wall was very simple but elegant. There were large frames of famous paintings and a basket of fresh flowers at a wooden coffee table in one corner.


    She walked towards the back of her desk and sat in her swivel chair. She then gestured for them to sit down in the two wooden chairs across her.


    When they were comfortably seated, Mrs. Perez broke the silence.


    "So tell me more about your proposed concert. " She looked straight into the eyes of Andrew.


    Andrew still felt a little shaky though it clearly showed that she was trying to be friendly and unintimidating.


    "Ma''am, our objective in this concert is to contribute in the student council''s fundraising projects.The proceeds of this proposed concert was agreed to help lessen the graduating student''s expenses in their coming in - house board exam review. Sixty percent will go to the school project and forty percent will be divided among us in the group. "


    "Bring your group here tomorrow for the audition. "


    "Thank you mom. " Cherry instantly beamed in happiness and excitement.


    She was the elected president of their university''s student council for two years already. She won the election, not only because she was brilliant in the class and was known for her talent in public speaking, but also because of her charms and beauty. She was mostly being remembered by the students during the election through her captivating smile in the large posters on the wall by the entrance of the university.


    Every year, the student council launched a fundraising project to help the graduating students with their expenses. This year, her goals and efforts were much larger because Andrew was one of the graduating students. One of her proposed project was to hold a concert in a five - star hotel where her mom worked as a general manager.


    "Thank you, Mrs. Perez. " Andrew echoed shyly, overwhelmed with the fact that her mother -in -law in the future almost looked like his age.


    You''re welcome, as long as you will take care of my daughter and will learn how to visit her properly at home. "


    This statement was both a welcome and a reminder. Andrew never visited her at home. They just met in the campus premises, in coffee shops , restaurants and in his boarding house.


    "I''m sorry, Mrs. Perez. From now on,


    I will visit her at your home. "


    "Good. " She nodded while Andrew felt like a wax melting in a low fire.


    The moment they got out of the hotel''s premises, Andrew couldn''t hold his curiousity anymore.


    "Cherry, your mom looks so young."


    "Are you attracted to her? " She confronted him. She had been watching his reaction the moment her mom walked into the hotel''s lobby.


    "What are you talking about? Of course, I am curious because I thought she would be the typical image of a mother whose daughter is already a college student. "


    "She gave birth to me at fourteen years old. My father is a spoiled brat so their relationship turned sour in the end. Luckily, my grandparents are wealthy so they supported mom''s studies until she graduated and found means to support me and herself. They never got married, neither she decided to get married with someone else but she amazingly got herself young boyfriends. However, my grandparents still supported us in behalf of my father especially that I am still studying. "


    "Fourteen years old? " His eyes widened in such an astounding news.


    " High school sweethearts. That''s no great difference from us. I was still sixteen when we started out. Luckily, you did not make me pregnant. "


    Suddenly, Cherry''s phone rang. Jeff''s voice broke into the line.


    "Cher, I''m sorry. I can''t make it to the concert. Or perhaps, I can no longer come back. We are going back to our hometown because of an emergency. "


    Cherry sank in frustration. He was their band''s only male vocalist while she was the female one. Andrew was the keyboard player and they also had a guitarist, a bassist and a drummer. Their concert proposal at her mom''s hotel was not only for one night but once a week throughout the whole school year.


    "What shall we do now? It''s not that easy to train another one. "


    Andrew pulled her closer towards him. She always got unusually prettier when she frowned.


    "Let''s announce for an audition. "


    "No choice. " She sighed.


    Just as they climbed the stairs towards the second floor where the office of the student council is located, someone who could solve their current problem was also descending from the top. Andrew felt surprised and relieved. He owed this man so much but it did not mean to resolve his old bitterness. How could he? When he always grabbed many things which was supposedly his?

 Chapter 44 - Andrew 2

    "Ajie! "


    "Andrew! "


    "What a small world! You''re also studying here? " Andrew asked, wide -eyed.


    "Yes, just started. I was in Cebu branch for two years. "


    "Jjie, can we invite you to the student council''s office, please? " Andrew begged, as if Ajie didn''t know about his stubborness in keeping grudge.


    "Sure. "


    "By the way, I''d like you to meet Cherry, my girlfriend. " He said as he placed an arm around her shoulder.


    Ajie extended his hand towards her with a polite smile.


    "Ajie, short for Adrian James."


    "Nice to meet you, Adrian. "


    Soon after that, they gathered in a long table inside the office. Without delay, Andrew explained to him the objectives and the projects of the student council under the leadership of Cherry, including their dire need of a male lead vocalist.


    "Adrian, would you be willing to


    help? " Cherry gave him a tender look that stirred up Andrew''s insecurities.


    Ajie turned to Andrew. "I''m no match to your talent, Andrew. You play like a pro and it''s such a shame for an awkward amateur like me to be mingled with your dexterity. "


    Andrew smiled, his self - esteem boosted.


    "Constant practice makes it perfect, Jie. So just try. We will tell you right away if you would not fit. "


    Cherry fidgetted, it was rather boastful of him. Yes, they played like a pro and Andrew''s talent was exceptional but he shouldn''t be lifting his own chair.


    Having understood her uneasiness, he glanced up and smiled. He was already used to Andrews superiority complex and he also understood that it was only a defense mechanism to hide his many insecurities.


    "Okay, I''ll try! "


    The truth was that Ajie had been trained to sing since he was five years old. Leo recognized his talent in singing even as a child so he inquired for anyone in the town who could train him up. It so happened that there was a music teacher who retired from the hustle and bustle of a city life and went home to their town. He opened up a music school and offered lessons such as voice, piano, guitar, violin and flute.


    Ajie and Andrew were one of the students. Ajie took up voice lessons until he was in high school while Andrew was trained in piano. There were many times that a talent scout went to their school to hire Ajie but Leo refused. He rather wanted him to finish his studies first before he could join into the music world.


    "Can I hear you now? " Cherry suggested.


    "Sure. "


    Cherry then turned on the music player inside the office and handed the microphone to Ajie. The latter stood up with a great air of confidence and prepared himself. As soon as Ajie sang the first stanza, Cherry felt her spine crept up with goosebumps rising to her nape. He sang just so beautifully, his voice was full and deep even in high notes.


    Andrew saw Cherry''s expression and he was not happy about it. When Ajie finally put down the microphone, Andrew spoke his mind right away.


    "You can do it with more practice, Jie. Just keep on trying. "


    Cherry was horrified! How could he say that? She was also music - minded like him who could tell the minutest flaw of a singer. And for her, Ajie even sang better than Jeff, their lead vocalist. On top of that, Ajie would surely be an apple of the audience eye. The word ''handsome'' was just too simple a word to define the truest sense of his physical attributes.


    To Cherry''s surprise, Ajie just smiled and agreed. There must be something in the mind of Andrew! All of a sudden, she felt she did not know him after all.


    She then tried to catch Ajie''s attention and smiled at him apologetically.


    "Not bad, Adrian. Tonight, we will have a rehearsal. " She then dismissed him with a thumb up.


    The next day, the Glitter''s Band gathered and positioned themselves inside the music room before the hotel''s administration council arrived. They were specially requested by Miss Perez to come because she submitted to them a proposal to ask for a slash of their charity fund for this student council''s project. She understood the importance of an in - house review where the students were requested to stay in a dormitory so that they could give a full focus on their studies for the board exam. The cost would be high because they would be paying for their stay as well as their food for the whole term. Usually, the term for the review would last for six to eight weeks.


    Few minutes after they had prepared everything, Andrew opened up their presentation with a piano rendition titled, "Fur Elise". This piece was written by Ludwig van Beethoven for a lady named Therese, nicknamed as Elise in 1810.


    Therese Malfatti was a pupil of Beethoven''s. He fell in love with her and decided to propose a marriage to her. His plans, however came to naught, probably because of an extremely embarrassing incident. This piece was not published until 1865, long after Beethoven''s death.


    This was such a beautiful piece that all pianist wanted to master it including Andrew. And right before the scrutiny of the council''s senses who were reluctant to release the budget, the beauty of this music pierced into the deep recesses of their hearts, bringing each of them back to their memories of how they first fell in love.


    Andrew''s music instrumental was then followed by a duet of Cherry and Ajie. They chose a hit love song from the 90''s titled "Endless Love" by Diana Ross and Lionel B. Riche. Ajie''s resonant and full voice combined by Cherry''s angelic voice was so spellbounding that the audience was gripped inside their core and dragged forward into the ninth cloud!


    Everyone around stood up and applauded them. Their congratulations seemed endless and the budget that Miss Perez proposed was right away granted! Not only that, Andrew got a one year contract as a solo piano performer while Ajie and Cherry were hired for special occasions.


    "Miss Perez, you never told us about how well your daughter can sing. Not only that, she and Adrian look good together. ''


    "Adrian, you deserved to be a professional artist, not only because of your talent but also because of your good looks. You and Cherry is really a good pair. "


    "Mr. Andrew, I can foresee that you will become a renowned pianist in the future. "


    However, their compliments about him did not make him happy because unlike Ajie, they did not link their prediction of his success with Cherry.

 Chapter 45 - Andrew 3

    After the band''s audition, they gathered around Miss Perez, with an overwhelming sense of victory for all the praises they had gained from the hotel''s administrative council. They were given a one whole school year''s contract for a live performance every Saturday night. It was also agreed that the hotel''s designated department for the artists performances would transport their equipments back and forth and would provide them a meal prior to each performance.


    Andrew also got a separate contract for a weekly solo engagement as well as a separate contract for Ajie and Cherry''s appearances for special occasions.


    On top of it, Miss Perez announced a victory celebration which she would personally sponsor. They would be treated for an overnight stay in one of the most famous beach resorts of the city.


    Soon, the appointed time came. Miss Perez picked them up in the university''s entrance at about six in the evening. As agreed, they would be staying for the night at the resort and would take the next whole day out in the beach.


    They were accomodated in cottages closest to the shore. The bassist and their guitarist shared a room while Andrew and Ajie shared another. Cherry and Miss Perez also got a separate one for themselves.


    As soon as they arrived, dinner was served in a table few meters away from the shoreline. Right after the main course, bottles of beer and wine were then served. To Ajie''s surprise, everyone around took their own glass like they were long used to it.


    "Adrian, you don''t drink? " Miss Perez asked with her captivating smile which drew Andrew''s eyes like a magnet.


    "Haven''t tried it yet, ma''am. " Ajie replied with a polite smile. His family''s reputation as drunkards and trouble - makers made him swear to never to drink at all in his entire life.


    "I guess you should try. " She said, urging the rest to convince him but the smell of alcohol always turned his stomach upside down as the memories of that incident in Kamelyo came back into his mind.


    "I had been treated for an errosive gastritis and had been prohibited with lots of food and drinks. " He lied in order to politely turn them down.


    As the night went deeper, while the rest were engrossed with singing and card games, they also started to get drunk. Cherry , who was the most affected, stood up to leave ahead. Seeing her unsteady gait, Andrew rushed up to her side and carried her towards her room.


    Miss Perez also excused herself and followed them. They all thought that she would also now be resting with her daughter but she came out few minutes later. Clad in a transparent, white swimsuit cover ups, she walked gracefully towards them with her two - piece, black bikini set revealing behind her lacy cover up.


    Her skin was like an ivory against the moonlight, accentuating her taut and perfect curves.


    Among the four of them, it was only Andrew who dared to keenly stare at her, almost without blinking. The rest quickly resumed to what they were doing and avoided an eye in respect of her.


    "Boys, I want to dip in the water to cool down. Just stay here. " She said, casting them a quick glance.


    As soon as her feet dipped in the water, she remembered that she was still in her cover ups, so she removed it and walked back towards her previous seat by the table and hang it on the backrest.


    All the while that Miss Perez was on the water, Andrew never removed his gaze. Ajie, who was secretly watching him, felt sick in disappointment. He thought about Cherry and her possible reaction if she, herself, would catch him looking that way to her own mom. He even did not feel a slight guilt with the fact that he was not alone. He did not hold any precautions at all, knowing that they were there, watching his every reaction. He was not conscious even with the possibility that one of them may secretly tell Cherry about it. They had been dating out for two years already and it was not a secret to the public that they were into a relationship.


    Suddenly, they were all startled by a scream coming from the sea. They all stood up and learned that it was Miss Perez! Without being told, Andrew rushed forward like a lightning and they all saw him picking her up in his arms.


    "What happened? " They all chorused to ask.


    "I stepped on a sea urchin! " She said, crying out in pain.


    Sea urchins are typically small, rounded, spiny creatures found on shallow rocky marine coastlines. The primary hazard associated with sea urchins is the contact with their spines.


    "Dip it in warm water and vinegar!"


    Ben, the guitarist, suggested.


    "Human pee can effectively address it. The spines will come out by itself once the acidity will be absorbed into the skin. " Lito, the bassist shared his idea, having learned about it through his own experience while in their hometown.


    "Ill go and ask for a basin and vinegar! " Ajie suggested.


    "Whatever. Just please bring me to my room, Andrew. "


    Without a word, Andrew lifted her up and sprinted towards the cottage.


    "Andrew, bring me to your room, instead. I don''t want to disturb my daughter. "


    " Sure. "


    Inside the room, Andrew directly placed her inside the bathroom so that she could rinse off from the sea water.


    "Andrew, I can''t do it by myself. Please help me."


    Andrew quickly placed her first in the toilet bowl and went out to get a chair. He then placed it under the shower and lifted Miss Perez into it.


    "Call me, ma''am when you''re done. "


    "Thanks. "


    Few minutes after, Miss Perez called him out. Andrew was already tensed and trembling deep inside.


    He opened the door and picked up a bath towel and handed it to her. To his shock, he saw in his naked eyes that Miss Perez was slowly removing her bikini set in front of him.


    "Andrew, can you please pull down my undies down my feet? "


    Andrews eyes widened. He was wondering if he was just being drunk or he was dreaming.


    "Andrew? "


    "M-Ma''am... "


    " I said, please help me remove my undies off my affected foot. "


    "Uh -uh, okay. " He bent down and pulled out the little, black cloth from her foot with shaking hands.


    Once removed, she dried her hair with the towel and the vigorous movement of her hands in her hair, made her taut but soft mounds in her chest bounce and sway.

 Chapter 46 - Andrew 4

    Fine tremors crept up all throughout Andrews body as he kept the urge to grab her and satisfy his desire. The sight of her was such a torture on his part, most especially that one of the side effects of his medications was an increase in sexual libido.


    "I''m done, Andrew. " She said as she wrapped herself with the towel.


    Andrew then bent down and lifted her up into the bed. As soon as he placed her down at the edge, Ajie came with his basin of hot water mixed with vinegar. Seeing her with just a towel, he handed the basin to Andrew and quickly left. He walked aimlessly towards the back of the building and found out that there was a garden which sprawled throughout the length of the rows of three buildings next to their designated area. There were lots of trees around and under the canopy of the green foliage were multi - colored outdoor hammocks with built-in mosquito nets.


    Ajie got overjoyed to see it since he was already tired and sleepy. He chose the one which was adjacent to their room. To his surprise, all the walls in the back portion of the building were built of glass and each rooms had exit sliding doors leading to this back garden. Thick curtains hang throughout these walls which blocked the views outside. At the same time, it could also give each room a beautiful and cool ambiance during daytime if one would push back the curtains to get a garden view.


    The whole surroundings were dimly - lit by yellow lights from the few lamp posts at the corners. Ajie noticed that all the lights inside the rooms were turned off except for the one assigned to him and Andrew. In just few minutes, with the gentle sways of the hammock as he pulled its cord, he dosed off to sleep...


    Meanwhile inside the room, Miss Perez dipped her foot inside the basin when the temperature of the water became tolerable. When the water finally cooled down, Andrew pulled out a chair across her and lifted up her affected foot into his lap to remove the sea urchin''s spikes with a tweezer.


    Perhaps because she was already drunk or perhaps because of pain, she spread her other leg sideward, giving Andrew a full view of that private territory between her thighs. Everytime Andrew aimed the tip of the tweezer at a spike to pull it out, she would arch her back and gave out a faint cry, intensifying her already seductive poses. After few minutes of tossing her body up, just as all the spikes were successfully removed, her towel loosened and dropped off to the bed.


    Andrew''s temperance reached its limits and he couldn''t hold himself anymore. He ran his fingers throughout her leg and moved it upward to her thighs... Seeing that she did not resist, he put her leg down, stood up and held her shoulders. To his surprise, she closed her eyes as he gently rubbed her arm while his own eyes were feeding on the nude beauty of her raw flesh. Completely enslaved by carnal desire, he held her arms firmly and slowly pushed her down to the bed.


    "Turn off the light... " She said with a hoarse voice, a declaration for Andrew to continue.


    ___


    Ajie was awakened by a loud thunder. He sat up and looked around. The whole surroundings was already dark and he noticed that the light inside his assigned room was already turned off. Threatened by a rain, he got off from the hammock and walked towards the exit door. He presumed that, perhaps , Miss Perez had already returned to her room. As he grasp the edge of the door to try to slide it sideward, he realized that it was partially opened, just enough for him to get in. Perhaps, the cleaners had forgotten to close and lock it. The occupants of the room would not notice it due to the thick curtains. Just as he was about to step inside, he heard a noise coming from inside. To his horror, he heard low voices, louder than whispers that soon became moans and groans of two people in heated activity...


    He inclined his ear further to confirm who the woman was. His heartbeats began to spike up and he began to wish that may the woman inside was just Cherry...Because when he left the room an hour earlier, Andrew was there with Miss Perez...


    "Don''t stop.... Andrew... please..."


    "Cherry might wake up by now..."


    "She''s drunk, she won''t...I made sure of that "


    Soon, their moans and groans became unrestrained and Ajie was not able to take it anymore. His knees trembled at that shocking sound... This should not be...never! This was something unacceptable and unforgivable. He got hurt in Cherry''s behalf. How could her own mother betray her? How could her own boyfriend afford to make love to her own mother? How wicked really this world is! He thought such things would happen only in movies and teleseries, but he saw it happening before his very own eyes!


    Ajie was confused at what he should do. Andrew was never thinking that he may find it out, granting that they were supposed to share that room for the night. How would he face Miss Perez in the morning? How would he interact with Andrew? How would his facial expression be like the moment he would face Cherry?


    With this, he decided to go home. He would still decide later if he should come back or not. He just lost his interest now.


    Later at his boarding house, he was so troubled that he found it difficult to sleep. His mind only shut off when the sun had already positioned on top of his window sill.


    At about eleven in the morning, Ajie was awakened by the ringing of his phone. He grabbed it from his bedside table and checked who the caller was. It was Cherry...


    He buried his face on the pillow and held both of its edge tightly against his ears. He did not want to face her. He just didn''t know how well he could act. And how long must he endure to cover up this horrible secret?

 Chapter 47 - Andrew 5

    The ringing of Ajie''s phone just did not stop so he decided to pick it up.


    "Adrian, where are you? " Cherry''s voice cracked right away into his ear as soon as he accepted the call.


    He answered groggily. "I''m sorry, Che. I got a stomach pain and I did not want to disturb anyone of you. "


    "So how are you now? " Cherry asked with a worried voice, to the relief of Ajie.


    He really wished something would came up to her relationship with Andrew before she would find out about her mother''s betrayal. He wished that her love for him would somehow grow cold. She did not deserved this, nor did any one.


    "I''m a little better, Che. I''m sorry I can''t come back. "


    "It''s alright, Adrian. As long as I know you are fine."


    As soon as he hang up, an unregistered call went through.


    "Hello? " He said, curious about who the caller was. He didn''t have many contacts in his phone.


    "Adrian, this is Miss Perez..."


    Ajie''s heart skipped a beat as soon as she told her name.


    "Yes, ma''am..."


    "How are you? " She asked, though he knew it was just a question out of respect. "I have heard that you have a sudden stomach pain last night. "


    Ajie was confused as to how he would answer her.


    "Yes, ma''am. "


    "Adrian, whatever your suspicion is, leave it here. I swear I can turn your life into a hell. "


    It was a threat that Ajie suddenly regretted to have decided to join the group. His life had been peaceful when he first came in this university, with driving lesson as his only diversion. And this situation was too mind - boggling. "


    "Don''t worry, ma''am. "


    "Next week, we will have another beach outing after your performance. Don''t make an alibi. I''ll give you and Cherry an assignment to keep yourself busy. "


    It was an imperative statement that made Ajie scared. He would have a new assignment, their cover - up for their secret operation!


    ___


    Days passed by quickly and soon it was their another night out in the beach. Routine followed. Dinner, singing, card games, all over stronger bottles of wine this time. He noticed that Andrew and Miss Perez only sipped a little but rather pour much into Ben and Lito''s glasses. When the night got deeper, Ben and Lito slumped into the table, all heavily drunk and asleep.


    Ajie and Andrew helped them into their rooms while Miss Perez excused herself to go back to the hotel for an urgent call.


    "Adrian, Andrew , after guiding these two into their rooms, you both go to your room directly. We need to rest early for a series of activities tomorrow. "


    Then she turned to Cherry. "Darling, take a rest now. Don''t wait for me. I may not be able to come back tonight. "


    "Alright, mom. "She replied non - chalantly.


    ___


    As Ajie and Andrew entered their room, Ajie''s phone rang. He pulled it out from his pocket and checked who the caller was. It was Miss Perez, the name his heart would always jump every time it appeared in his phone''s screen.


    "Adrian, I want you to stand outside Cherry''s room in the first building by the entrance. I also booked you a room next to hers. If ever she''s still hanging outside, make sure to leave only when she''s asleep. "


    "Got it, ma''am. " Ajie said with a heavy heart.


    Just as Miss Perez suspected, Ajie saw Cherry on the porch swing outside her room.


    "Che, you''re still outside? " He said as he walked towards him.


    "Yes, this place is too beautiful to sleep early. I want to bask myself in the moonlight. " Her answer brought a pang of pain to him. Allie also loved moonlit nights.


    "I see. "


    "Why are you here? I thought you''re sharing a room with Andrew. "


    "I booked a room next to yours. Andrew snores too loudly and I can''t sleep. "


    To his surprise, Cherry laughed out loudly.


    "Come in, Adrian. Sit beside me. Let''s talk. "


    As soon as Ajie sat down beside her, she began telling her shocking sentiments.


    "Adrian, Andrew never snore. I sleep with him every night except on weekends. We literally share a boarding house. Mom knows about it and I found it amusing why she still needs to book separate rooms for us. "


    Ajie was taken aback. "What do you mean? "


    "That you are lying. "


    Ajie then found himself lost for words. He stared at her, wondering how he could defend himself. Miss Perez '' warning stuck into his mind.


    "Adrian, mom perhaps forgot that I was the one who created all her social media accounts. And that she uses only one password. I link all her accounts to mine so I would be notified. So, it means that I know all about her dirty secrets. "


    Adrian was too afraid to breath deeply, too afraid of another ferocious bomb she would explode.


    "What do you mean? " Ajie finally broke out his curiosity.


    "I''m already used to mom''s secrets and I knew all about it from the


    start. She has her ways of attracting men she likes and when those men fall as her victim and get in love with her, she would dispose them like trash."


    "Andrew is her new target because as you may have observed, he is showing interest. I already predicted what will happen last week so I pretended to be drunk. I watched her come out of the room in her bikini set and I saw your commotion when she stepped into a sea urchin. "


    " Adrian, she is not new in this resort because she is a gold member here. Due to her many referrals for membership, she acquired many rewards and one of those are free room accomodations and free use of the facility. Sadly, she uses all her rewards for the men she has her eye on. To protect her reputation, she always come here with a group. "


    " She knows all about the sea urchins and she could have used protective gears. "


    "I was the one who opened the exit door and that has always been my trick in catching them. Poor Miss Perez, she must have not realized that every room in this facility has exit doors concealed by thick curtains. I even pinned cameras into the curtain and turned them on when I feel that they are starting the


    deed. "


    "And Adrian, you did not have a stomach pain, do you? "

 Chapter 48 - Andrew 6

    "I had a heartache, instead." He chuckled.


    Cherry smiled bitterly and looked down, feeling the shame on a greater degree now that someone else knew it.


    "How about you? How are you reacting to this? What is your plan? "


    Ajie asked, taking the chance fully now that it was Cherry herself who opened it up.


    "I cannot fly with an undeveloped wings yet, Adrian. I need to bear this like a clown. She''s my mom after all and I understand that this is some kind of a psychiatric disorder. Through it all, she never involved any feeling in this. I am just being worried about Andrew. How would he accept it when he will start to fall in love with her, only to be dumped ruthlessly? He will suffer a double loss because in the first place, he''s going to lose me. "


    "What could be the reason why your mom behaves this way? It looks like she''s doing a form of revenge." Ajie concluded, judging the way she carried this with no emotion involved as Cherry defined it.


    "I don''t know, Adrian. I wonder if her emotional trauma has something to do with it. She was raped at ten years old by a relative, got pregnant at 13 years old, only to be dumped by my father.The good thing about it was that she never planned even once to get rid of me despite the terrible punishment she got from my grandfather. Not only physically, but to the extent of disowning her as a family. Luckily, my father''s parents supported her even if my father refused to take the responsibility. "


    Ajie stared at her with unbelieving eyes. He did not see her drink earlier so he was sure she had a clear mind. It so disheartening to see how a young and beautiful woman, who looked happy and strong outwardly, could suffer an emotional deterioration inside.


    "Why are you telling me this, Che? Aren''t you afraid that I may be spreading this? " He said, looking at her sincerely. He would have preferred to know nothing about it. It was just too heavy to digest.


    "I trust you, Adrian. And besides, I have no one to share my pain with, not even Andrew. "


    "But relationship should be based on trust... "


    "I know but, unfortunately, its not applicable in us. " She shrugged, a gesture which implied that she was no longer happy.


    "Don''t trust me so much, Che. You don''t know me at all. " He warned, and to Cherry''s disgust, he was indeed serious about it.


    Cherry laughed out loudly, concealing her disappointment.


    "You know, Adrian, I don''t only trust you, but I also like you. I''m a straightforward person, except to my mom. Give me more time and I will surely fall in love with you."


    "Please, don''t. Don''t waste your feelings. I am no longer available. My heart belong to Allyza Reyes, the one I promised a marriage with. " He chuckled a little but it was the plain truth. He then began telling her their story except those confidential issues.


    "I envy her. What did she do to capture you? " She teased, now with a smile.


    "Perhaps the way you captured Andrew''s heart. "


    ___


    Days passed by like it were regular days for Andrew, Cherry and Miss Perez. Their rehearsals flowed out well as if there were no grievances and their performances, likewise, garnered more praises and admiration. Andrew played out better than his best, perhaps because of his new inspiration. He did not notice the sparkling glints in Cherry''s eyes as she sang with Ajie. Not even her warmth which was now poured out on him.


    Andrews eyes were now set on a new dimension and his heart fluttered for his new inspiration. Their beach outing became regular and the treachery went on. He had now a new reason for his renewed energy, especially with the vigorous and daring encounters he had with Miss Perez. He even did not notice that Cherry no longer slept in his boarding house since he himself already spent his nights in the heated chambers of deception and lust. Yes, all his nights since he first slept with Miss Perez, the gorgeous, sophisticated and seductive being in his newfound world.


    Without them realizing, it was already almost the end of the school year. Cherry surprisingly did better as the president of the student''s council. She even broke the highest record in raising the biggest charity fund ever in the history of the students council''s fundraising projects.


    No one was more inspired than Andrew on the day of his graduation. He gained the reputation as the best performer and he also felt that it was because of him that Glitters band gained the highest fame.


    He walked up to the stage with head up high, a symbol of great pride and fulfillment. He was excited to see Miss Perez in the front row to cheer him up. But to his dismay, even a replica of hers did not appear even until the last person left the graduation hall. He went home, hoping for a surprise but even Cherry was not there.


    Andrew dared to go to her office without permission and the moment he saw her sitting behind her desk on a very relaxed manner, his anger blew up.


    "Haven''t I told you that today is my graduation? " He yelled, his tears began to well up in humiliation.


    Miss Perez looked at him in the eye and smirked.


    "What do I owe you, Andrew? I don''t remember that I have an obligation with you. "


    Andrews eyes widened in disbelief and his knees began to lose strength.


    "What did you say? Were all those moments we shared together holds no worth of me as a person and as a lover? "


    Miss Perez then laughed so hard that she teared up, making Andrew wonder if she was indeed the woman he shared many wonderful moments with.


    "I''m sorry, Andrew. All those moments were just one of the games I played to relieve my boredom. Certainly no emotions involved. "


    Andrew began to shake terribly in anger, frustration and shock. Tears continued to fall from his eyes but Miss Perez just watched him bluntly.

 Chapter 49 - Andrew 7

    Seeing the derision in Miss Perez''s face, Andrew turned away. No matter how he tried to force himself to believe that it was all a dream, yet he also knew that everything was real. He rushed back home and called Cherry but their was a constant play of automated reply telling him that her phone was out of service.


    Just then, he noticed that her personal care on the vanity table were gone. He stood up and inspected everything. The drawer for her accesories and lingeries were empty. The closet which housed her multi - colored stuffs was now dull and lifeless.


    Cherry'' s gone. She had finally left!


    He''s now alone, all alone! His tears fell with this realization. She, who had been patient with all his tantrums and aggressiveness, had finally given him up. She, who understood all his shortcomings and saw instead his strength, had finally got tired. She, who pretend to the world around them how perfect their relationship was, had already embraced the reality. She, who endured long against his betrayal, had finally gotten exhausted.


    And now she''s gone, forever gone... out of his life!


    He cried hard with all the remorse he could muster yet he knew he was too late!


    Adding an insult to his excruciating injury, he found a diary which probably fell off unnoticed. It lied upside down under the bed and its pages were crumpled. He dusted it and hurried to read it all.


    June 6


    We met someone by the staircase. I didn''t understand myself. He seemed to be someone different from all the boys I met in the university, including Andrew. To my surprise, he was Andrew''s friend and I was too overwhelmed with joy when we decided to let him be our male lead vocalist. Because I felt something different, something special. I would like to define it as love at first sight.


    June 15


    We had our first concert at mom''s hotel. And I was never more inspired in my life like tonight to sing a duet with my fellow vocalist who was at the same time, my crush!


    June 16


    I noticed Andrews stolen gazes at mom and it hurt me. I also saw mom returned his gazes and I could guess what would happen next. And true as I predicted, he fell into her trap and I saw them doing the deed. Nothing could be more painful than seeing the man, who claimed to love you with all his heart, moaned in great pleasure and desire with your own mother!


    June 25


    While Adrian was tricked into getting separate room for himself, I knew it was because my lover and my mom was going to spend the night with each other in bed.


    It didn''t hurt that much at first but when I learned that Adrian was in love with a certain Allyza Reyes, I suddenly became hopeless. A Bachelor of Accountancy graduate last year of the University of Sto. Domingo - Cebu, I wonder how could she be any better than me.


    July 3


    Another beach outing again with my group who were all excited for the drinks, food and swimmimg as their way to release the stress of a student''s life. I knew it was another wild night for Andrew and mom but it''s alright. I was enjoying my moments talking to the man I am sure I am secretly beginning to fall in love with.


    March 1


    How time flies! Before I realized it, the day of my freedom from pain is almost at hand. It''s time to execute my plan! Thanks for my secret love to Adrian. It filled my remaining days with thrill, inspiration and excitement.


    March 29


    Tonight, I will be sailing via MV Helena towards my freedom in the depths of the sea.


    Tomorrow will be Andrew''s graduation. While he will be celebrating it with mom, I will also be celebrating my freedom with the strangers of the unknown world.


    ...A separate note for Andrew...


    Andrew,


    The day you will find this diary, perhaps I''ll already be meeting new people in my new world.


    Congratulations on your graduation day!


    May you''ll always choose the path that would bring you success and true happiness.


    Bye forever,


    Cherry


    .....A separate note for Ajie....


    Adrian,


    Thanks for knowing you. If it were not because of you, I would have executed this plan a long time ago but my secret love for you made me decide to stay longer.


    I admired your loyalty to Allyza. Even with the distance and the conflict, you remained true to her. I really envied her. I was wishing to find someone as true and faithful as you.


    I just want to let you know that my curiousity of who she was, motivated me to know her more. I tried hard to find her and we eventually became friends on Facebook. We talked a lot. She told me her hobbies and interests as well as her dreams. I also admired her advocacy, especially in making herself a part of a youth''s association. In fact, I got ideas from her on how to run the student council. That''s why I did better as a president this year.


    In case you will decide to come back to her, here''s her address and contact number. Rest assured that I did not tell her that I knew you. It may sound funny but she told me how she got in love with a man named Adrian. Hahaha! If only she knew that I am also in love with this man...


    Lastly Adrian, may your love for each other grows deeper and stronger ''til death do you part.


    ____


    Last night....


    MV Helena sailed through the rough seas and strong winds that night. There was already a forecast about a looming tropical depression but there was no advisory yet to cancel air and sea travels. All the passengers stayed in their cots since the rockings of the vessel due to big waves was more than enough to make one dizzy. Only crews were seen patrolling all around every now and then.


    When all the passengers were asleep and only few crews were roaming around, Cherry went inside a cabin. She changed into a large T - shirt and a black jeans then tied her hair into a bun. She then put on her cap then stood by the door of the cabin. She then looked around the surroundings and saw that no one was around. Only the sound of the engine and the slaps of the waves were heard.


    Few minutes after, a lound sound was heard.


    "Splaaaaash! "


    Then, a scream echoed through the walls of the ship.


    "Man overboard! "


    Footsteps were then heard running to and fro followed by three, long rings along with 3 long blasts on ship whistle to inform the other ships in the nearby vicinity.

 Chapter 50 - Andrew 8

    Suddenly there was a commotion inside the vessel as most of the passengers were alerted. Rescue operation were then executed. Distress signals blasted, lifebouy thrown down, rescue boats descended and rescue team dispersed. To their dismay, the body they expected to find on the area of the MOB, quickly disappeared. Spotters were focused and readjusted several times but still to no avail. Even with the use of


    military-grade cameras, thermal imaging sensors and powerful lighting devices, it still took them several hours in their search but worst of all, they all came back empty - handed. The very bad weather, the big and angry waves and the strong rain made the search operation very difficult and almost impossible due to the dangers it may pose to the rescuers. No mighty swimmer could be more powerful than great waves and no robust body of a rescuer could be strong enough to stand against the fatal and freezing temperature of the water even with thermal gears.


    After a quick investigation, it was found out that the person who had gone overboard was a young lady named Cherry Perez...


    ____


    Before the news broke out which was quickly held back through the support Miss Perez got from the hotel''s administrative council, Andrew went to see Ajie. He showed him the diary BUT he only showed the first two paragraphs Cherry had written.


    Adrian,


    Thanks for knowing you. If it were not because of you, I would have executed this plan a long time ago but my secret love for you made me decide to stay longer.


    I admired your loyalty to Allyza. Even with the distance and the conflict, you remained true to her. I really envied her. I was wishing to find someone as true and faithful as you.


    Lastly, Adrian, may your love for each other grows stronger and deeper ''til death do you part...


    *******


    The third and fourth paragraph which talked about Cherry''s moves to know more about Allysa, their friendship on facebook, the inspiration she got from her in running the organization and her contact number were deleted with the use of a thick, blank ink.


    Ajie was taken aback by the information he got from that diary. Though he was not blind nor deaf to feel Cherry''s special treatment for him but he didn''t realized how deep it was. Yes, he was an instrument in lightening up her burden and that he was the wind beneath her wings especially in all her plans but for him, it didn''t held any feelings beyond a mere friendship.


    He had seen and admired the wonderful traits of Cherry but his heart was stubbornly closed for Allie. Those two years they had intimately spent with each other, couldn''t just be easily replaced and forgotten.


    He looked up at Andrew and without the need to tell him, he felt that Miss Perez had already dumped him. His pale face spelled death, death of his hopes and dreams for her. As Andrew caught Ajie''s eyes at him, he felt derided, belittled and insulted. That look which only meant sympathy for Ajie, he misinterpreted it as mockery. It opened up his old wound and right then, his hatred and jealousy exploded.


    Before Ajie could say a word, a fist landed at the left side of his face. Before he could throw another blow, Ajie quickly held him up, pushed him down and pinned him to the ground. Due to sleeplessness and absence of food intake, Andrew''s body felt like a paper against a thin blow of air.


    "Andrew, I don''t understand why you always place the blame on me. I was still a child when your grandparents took you out from my parents and therefore, I didn''t even know what was happening. Now, you hit me because Cherry is in love with me. Is it my fault when it was you who neglected her? Is it my fault that she was hurting because you betrayed her with her own mother? Didn''t you fell goosebumps in your skin with the fact that after you make love with her, you sneak out to do it also to her mother? It''s so horrible Andrew, not even dogs can swallow that. "


    Ajie''s voice already quivered with anger as he went on, his eyes so heated up like it were about to emit a strong blast of fire.


    "Tell me, Andrew, do you still deserved Cherry''s love? Does she have no right to fall out? Think about it and use your brain! "


    Andrew struggled against Ajie''s tight grip as he furiously and illogically retorted.


    "You tempt and seduce her! That''s why she falls out on me. Remember this Adrian, I would avenge for her loss. I will let you feel one day, how it feels to be betrayed... "


    Ajie shook his head in disbelief at his poor reasoning and judgment. The pattern of his thinking was so illogical. Realizing that there was no point in talking to him, he got up and turned to leave.


    Just then, Andrews phone sounded. He pulled it out from his sling bag and quickly sat up when his phone screen showed "Miss Perez" as the caller. In a snap of a second, a silly grin spread out in his face.


    "Do you now miss me? " To Ajie''s frustration, Andrew chuckled out like a child who was gifted with a sugar candy. Ajie foolishly thought that the drama Andrew just showed was because of the suicidal note of Cherry. To his horror, he even felt proud and boasted himself by turning on the loudspeaker mode.


    "Can you still afford to betray her even with the news that she jumped off the ship last night? "


    Ajie clearly heard Miss Perez''s voice from the other line. He also saw Andrew''s loud gasp of shock as his face turned pale like a sheet of bond paper.


    "And for your information, she was not found! "


    Andrew was dumbfounded for a second, but after a while, a glint of joy showed up in his eyes.


    "We can have our total freedom then, Miss Perez. Isn''t that good news? "


    Ajie was instantly blinded with anger that he sent a flying fist against Andrew''s face, sending him to the ground unconscious.


    "There''s a better place for both of you, Andrew! A psychiatric facility! "

 Chapter 51 - Pain And Success

    "What happened then? " Allyza asked, totally forgetting that they were here for their first date as a newly - wed couple.


    Ajie looked up to her, reading between the lines to find out how she was responding to the revelation that another woman was in love with him.


    "I never expected that Andrew would act fast. How he found you, I am not sure. Cherry may had mentioned to him everything I told her about you. "


    Ajie did not know about the part of the letter where Cherry left Allie''s contact number and address. He also did not know that Cherry communicated with Allie through the Youth In Action''s chat room.


    Youth In Action was a youth organization facilitated by every branch of Sto. Domingo University. These were mostly composed of the university''s alumni since only graduating students and officers of the student council were required to join. The objective of the organization was to help in the improvement of the society. They held anti - drug campaigns, educational programs for the out of school youths and trained volunteers for calamity rescue operations and many others.


    The Youth In Action organization also held a nationwide congress to unite and motivate all the members of every chapter through their reports and testimonies on how their respective organization were faring.


    Allie and Jane were one of the officers of Cebu chapter so it was easy for Cherry to locate her.


    "Andrew was invited by Jane to play during one of the org''s special event so that''s how he transferred his membership here. "


    Ajie snapped into the realization that the easier way to locate Allie was through the organization. It didn''t occur to him since he was not a member yet.


    "Andrew is really famous in the campus because of his talent. Not only in the campus but in the whole music industry eversince he was contracted by the hotel. He got invitations for special appearances and he also got part time jobs in music schools as tutor. "


    Allie stared at him with a puzzled expression and Ajie noticed it.


    "You''re wondering at how Andrew could play so well yet he has a distorted way of thinking? "


    "Yes. " Allie admitted, thinking back on how he met Andrew and what he did for Chloe.


    "Some people find it hard to accept tragedies in life. I am afraid that Andrew may have developed a separation anxiety disorder when his parents died. No one could tell how he was treated by his new family which may had contributed to his difficulty in dealing with his anxiety. "


    "Poor Andrew, we could not blame him for his behavior. "


    "But I could not accept it if he succeeded in luring you out. That''s why I warned you not to believe in his advances because I know those were part of his revenge. "


    Then he held her hand and looked straight into her eyes.


    "Allie, if I were late in coming back, was there a possibility between you and Andrew? "


    Allie suddenly felt tickled. "I promised to wait, didn''t I? "


    The truth was that her heart was so filled with humiliation that time that she couldn''t welcome another threat to break her heart.


    Ajie then pulled her up closer to him and tearfully hugged her.


    "I''m sorry again, Allie. My pride even dictated me to come back after I could graduate and get a job and prove to your parents that I am different. "


    Allie chuckled as she recalled how she was dealing her loss and pain.


    "My nightmares and my grief melted their hearts. "


    ___


    Chloe''s barium enema was finally scheduled. Allie was no longer as anxious as she was before in handling Chloe during procedures because Ajie was already there. They both watched together as the rad tech administered the barium into Chloe''s ileostomy. When the imaging started which is medically called as flouroscopy, Allie went inside a separate room which had a barrier from radiation and watched Ajie as he held Chloe with his lead apron.


    As the series of x - ray images flashed through the monitor which followed the passage of barium into Chloe''s large intestines, Allie''s heart was squeezed with pain and pity for her child. She was only four months old, too young to be exposed in radiation. What would happen to her after all these? How would all these affect her physical and mental development?


    After the procedure, they brought the films to the surgeon''s office. Allie and Ajie watched him anxiously as he studied each film. If there would be a continous and clear outline of the succesful passage of the barium into the intestine, Chloe''s second surgery would then be scheduled.


    A barium, which is a white crystalline inorganic compound being feed to the patient before the procedure, would  show up as bright white in the picture or film when X- ray is done. It would outline the shape and contour of the colon and rectum.


    "Congratulations and thanks God! Baby Chloe is ready for the surgery! Admit him today and I will schedule the surgery at 8 am. "


    When finally the morning of the surgery came, Allie''s heart was in turmoil again. Even if with those signs that Chloe would live, she couldn''t help herself from getting scared for the outcome. When the nurse came in to change her into a hospital gown, her tears began to race down into her face, drenching her collarbone. She then lifted her up into her arms and wailed. She couldn''t stop herself from asking why it had to happen to her daughter.


    Ajie''s heart broke in watching them. He was already broken with the fact that her daughter, as young and fragile as she was, would have to undergo two surgeries. Yet, he was more shattered in the actual realization of how difficult it was for Allie to go through this alone in her first surgery. No money, no husband to share her fears with...


    ___


    The success of the surgery was a great news for them. No more ileostomy and finally, she would soon return to her actual weight. But as soon as the baby woke up and asked for milk, the tearing of her heart resumed once again.


    As she persistently tossed up and cried in hunger, Allie and Ajie took turns in rocking her but still she couldn''t be pacified. How could they explain it to a child that she was still not allowed to be fed? Chloe''s voice eventually became hoarse in so much crying and her eyes were already puffing.


    Her helpless cries pierced painfully into Allie''s heart, opening up her floodgates once more. Frustrated, hurt and scared, she dropped herself to the floor and cried a little less louder than Chloe until they both fell asleep.

 Chapter 52 - The Plan

    Few days after the surgery, Chloe was discharged from the hospital. Finally, Allie was able to relax from her worries. She was gaining back her ideal weight quickly and the joy within their home was restored.


    The day came where Ajie had to decide whether or not he would accept Mr. Lopez'' offer to let him continue his studies in Japan. He didn''t want to be separated from his little family. He was debating within himself if the decision would give him more benefit than risk. And that he also had to weigh the risk if it wouldn''t ruin himself and his family.


    To help him decide, Mr. Lopez invited him and Allie for a dinner in his home.


    "Adrian, you may bring Allie and your daughter with you. However, Allie would be stagnant because she would only be taking care of your child. Unlike here, where your parents can help in taking care of her then she can go ahead with whatever business plans that you have. If she would stay, she can also visit you with the baby every now and then. I''ll have my men facilitate the processing of your papers. "


    Ajie looked at Allie worriedly. What good can his success do if the distance may create a rift in their relationship?


    Mr. Lopez watched them admiringly. Ajie was not exercising dominance as a man in their relationship but waited on the decision of his wife. Just then, a helper came running with a wireless phone.


    "Sir Angelo, a certain Louise Dioko is on the line. "


    "Louise, what''s up? " Mr. Lopez spoke into the line without standing up to take a distance from them.


    Due to the defeaning silence in the garden where they took their dinner, the voice from the other line could be heard well.


    "Uncle, one of the agents who were sent into the company as a spy in disguise of a factory worker, revealed that there must be a worker who sell out informations to the authority as none of them were able to give solid proofs. So we are currently doing interrogations to some workers of Kamelyo Lab. "


    "Uncle, my purpose in this call is to ask you a favor. Since you are now occupying the area and your workers may possibly come from Kamelyo, would you allow us to conduct an individual interrogation to your all workers? I cannot rest until we can avenge for dad. "


    "Louise, your dad is also my close friend and someone I am greatly indebted to. You may go ahead with your plan but I am afraid that this revenge may ruin your life. " Mr. Lopez replied, his eyes were on Allie.


    "As a parental advice, do not do anything that would also ruin your life. " He said further, his eyes still fixed on Allie.


    "I''m sorry, uncle, but I can''t just watch daddy in jail, helpless and hopeless. "


    "We would find ways to get your daddy out. Just don''t stain your hands in this. You''re still young, Louis. I understand your pain but you don''t have to do anything that may harm you. "


    "Uncle, you know that it is impossible. Yes, we can hope for a parole but when is it going to happen?"


    "Louise... " Before Mr. Lopez could continue, Louise hanged up.


    Fear seized Allie''s heart upon hearing their conversation. Louise Dioko was the son of Mr. Dioko who was arrested as one of the leaders of the drug syndicate operating mainly in Kamelyo. She breathed deeply but slowly to calm herself down, trying hard to make an expressionless facade as possible.


    Mr. Lopez closed his eyes and sighed. After a moment, he looked at them and smiled.


    "I''m sorry for the interruption. This brat is just inviting trouble into his life! " He said as he looked down on his phone and swiped a name in his contact list.


    "Alfonso..." Mr. Lopez then narrated to him the conversation he had with Louise.


    "Unless we can find an evidence that he is doing something unlawful, then we can prosecute him. But still, I''ll send men to monitor his moves. "


    "Then how can you protect your spies? " He asked further while his eyes returned to Allie.


    "We are observing strict confidentiality but if one of those workers sell them out, how would we know? Just keep in touch with Louise so that you will be aware of his steps. "


    After few minutes, the conversation was ended but Allie''s heart was already pumping a mile after a second. She glanced up at Ajie but he seemed to be not worried about it. Either he was just being absorbed in his thoughts about going to Japan that he seemed to forget that she was the spy, she couldn''t tell but it got her humiliated.


    "Allie, what is your decision in this? "


    Allie got startled when her name was mentioned. She glanced up to Ajie again and then to Mr. Lopez with a puzzled look. She was not listening.


    "Pardon me, sir. My mind is somewhere else. "


    Mr. Lopez smiled understandingly. " I understand. " He then repeated his question.


    "If I am to decide, I want Ajie to go for his dreams. The opportunity you give him is rare and is such a great blessing. And as you suggests, sir, I agree to visit him every now and then. " She smiled at him then gave Ajie a quick glance.


    Ajie was surprised. He never thought that Allie would agree since he knew that she wouldn''t want to experience the loneliness of being alone again. They were just being reunited and it would be frustrating on her part that he would go away again.


    Never did he know that a separate plan was brewing on Allie''s mind.

 Chapter 53 - Her First Step

    The moment Ajie and Allie arrived home, Allie''s parents met them on the door. Mary was holding Chloe and the child flailed her arms towards them excitedly. Her shallow happiness was contagious and Ajie got overjoyed. He took her up into his arms and played with her, forgetting that there were other people around.


    Allie''s mother then held Allie''s arm and dragged her to their bedroom.


    "Mom, what is it? " She asked, wondering why her mom. behaved oddly. There were glints of fear in her eyes and suddenly, she got hesitant on something she most likely had wanted to bring it up to her.


    Allie''s heart hammered loudly against her chest and her existing fear was aggravated.


    "Allie, you''re uncle Timmy is dead and your other uncles are cruelly battered. "


    Allie''s eyes widened and didn''t need to be told why.


    "What??? "


    "A group of men arrested them and brought them inside a building. They were horribly mauled before they were interrogated. They were forced to speak who could be the possible source of all the informations inside the Kamelyo Lab. Since the group couldn''t extract anything from them, they were forced to reveal who were those other workers they knew. "


    "Then why Uncle Timmy died? " Her heart wanted to scream in protest. They did not deserve it.


    "I really don''t know. Your auntie called me up and informed me about the incident. Everyday, a number of people in Kamelyo are pulled out. They are miserably looking for the spy. They believed they couldn''t possibly be caught because their security was impenetrable for years unless someone from their people would sell them out. And that''s what they believed. "


    "They were able to bribe one of the agents and that agent revealed that her group who were sent as spies in disguise of factory workers were not able to find any evidence. "


    Allie almost fainted in fear. There were only two people who knew about all the secret passages into the underground lab, the passcodes, the facts about the mules and those many ways the drugs were transported. During the raid, Dino had already made a perfect plot for everyone in the team. Each one of them had already its special instruction, specific place to go and what they would expect to find. He laid their instruction as if he himself had been acquainted in the place.


    Her greatest fear, among the four possibilities, was not the people from Kamelyo but the team of Dino itself. What if Dino and his men were the next target of Louise? Even if she could guarantee Dino''s loyalty but under pressure and torture when one would hold on to his dear life, he could possibly sell her out.


    Second, was Director General Alfonso''s tactlessness when being drunk. He had already slipped his toungue during their wedding and how could she expect that he hadn''t rant her out to his other drinking partners?


    Third was Andrew himself. With that distorted way of his thinking and his illogical revenge , betraying her to the enemies was not impossible if opportunity would strike. He had heard everything that Mr. Lopez and General Alfonso talked about. Hurting her meant hurting Ajie himself.


    Fourth was Mr. Lopez. Human as he was, his reasoning, no matter how firm, could also falter. The man who was aggrieved and suffered was not only his bestfriend but the one who trusted in his abilities and the one who helped him become what he was now. Naturally and reasonably, his sympathy was expected to go out to him rather than her.


    "Ma, what shall I do? If I didn''t do it, the wickedness of Kamelyo would have perpetuated. Many more would become victims and the future of many children would be ruined. What I did is for the greater good of the majority. " She said calmly but her lips were already quivering and her tears started to race down. She didn''t want to die. Chloe was still very young.


    Her tears turned into sobbing and her sobbing turned into wailing. What would she do to escape for her precious life? Her daughter needed her and Ajie wouldn''t also be able to accept it.


    "Go with Ajie to Japan. " Her mom''s eyes flickered as she thought about it, embracing the idea as a lifeguard against a sinking ship.


    She looked up and smiled bitterly. "It would be easier to trace me if I''m with him. "


    Feeling hopeless, her mother wrapped her in a warm embrace. She rubbed her back as she allowed her to cry her heart out but she herself didn''t know what to do. Squeezing her clouded mind to grasp an idea, a sense of despair overlapped it all that she lose her grip to hold back her own tears. She was their only daughter and their only priced treasure.


    Stiffling her urge to sob more, she comforted her.


    "Don''t worry, dear. God is watching us and He will see us through all of this. What you did is for the good of many. He will surely find ways to protect you. " She assured her and when she did not react, she went ahead.


    "Remember one of your favorite verses in Psalm 91:8. Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked."


    When Allie came back to their apartment, her eyes and nose were already red and her eye bags were puffing. Ajie saw it and his heart sanked. His weakness was always a woman''s tears, how much more that it was her. He hurriedly pulled her close towards him that her face rested in his shoulder. Feeling the warmth of his comfort and the coming loneliness once her plan would be carried out, she sobbed bitterly all over again.


    "Why are you crying? " Ajie asked once her sobbing ebbed down. He felt bitter and guilty in thinking that perhaps it was again because of him. If only he knew that this was how gravely Allie cried, he wouldn''t have gone away.


    "I''m just sad that you are going away again. " She looked up to him and smiled tearfully.


    He pushed back her hair which covered her face and looked lovingly into her eyes.


    "I''m staying. "


    "No. I''ll be fine. "


    "No, I can''t bear to know that you would be crying like this. " He said firmly.


    "I''ll be fine. When it would be unbearable, I can always go where you are. "


    "But it''s more wonderful to sleep with you each night. Or to go home and be met by a babbling child. " He reasoned out.


    "When Chloe is big enough to be left in a playroom while I''ll be out for work, we will then live together. We still need to establish ourselves. You yourself doesn''t know yet what kind of life you will have in Japan. "


    When Ajie was finally convinced, she kissed him like there was no longer another time to do it, making them end up in bed, only to be halted by Chloe''s cry for milk!


    Early the next morning, she stared at Ajie''s face, putting every features and every lines of his face into her memory. She then stood up and walked into the terrace, allowing the morning glory to flood into herself. She picked up her phone, typed her password and went through her contact list.


    It did not take long for the name in the contact list she''s searching for to appear in the screen.


    BLACK LOGO

 Chapter 54 - I Will Always Love You

    After making a call, she returned to their bedroom to see if Ajie was already awake. Seeing that he was still sound asleep, she bent down and gave him a smack on the lips. Ajie moaned groggily, grabbed her nape downward and returned her smack with a deep kiss. Then he curled up and slept back.


    Watching him like that, she felt thousands of needle pricks all throughout the surface of her heart. How many more nights left for them to enjoy the comfort of sleeping together? How many more mornings left for her to wake up seeing his face, while his hands were wrapping her in a warm embrace? How many more days left before the sense of security of being with him ends?


    Thinking all about these, she lied down again in his arms facing him. She traced down the contours of his face with a heavy heart.


    "I will always love you, Adrian. " She murmured softly as tears suddenly stung her eyes.


    "I will love you forever, Mrs. Adrian. " He startled her with a reply and a big grin, causing Allie to withdraw her fingers from his face as if she touched a scalding surface.


    He pulled back her hands and let it cup his face. "I don''t want to go to Japan anymore. "


    She suddenly felt a log resting against her throbbing heart, thinking about the luxury of having him in her whole lifetime and also about the threat which was pressing her recently. In order to live for him and for her daughter, she had to die temporarily, wishing that it wouldn''t be too late when finally she would be able to live again.


    Nearly after a month, she found herself at the airport sending off Ajie in his flight to Japan. He was talking to Chloe childishly and the child would giggle loudly even before he could open his mouth to speak. He was laughing, his heart was filled with both joy and sadness.


    "My love, by the time daddy will come back, you will already be able to walk. And I''ll be taking you to the children''s park, to your music school, to your ballet class and many else. Do you like that? " He tickled her at the area right below her ears and Chloe wiggled her legs and tossed her little body as she laughed.


    Reluctantly and tearfully, Ajie handed back her daughter to Allie.


    " Be sure to call me everyday and update me in all your activities. " He said after he kissed and hugged her tightly.


    "I will. " She replied after she reluctantly released herself from his embrace. Her reluctance was due to her fear that this could be their last embrace.


    As he walked towards the entrance of the check - in lounge, a woman''s voice from behind them called out Ajie''s name. Allie and Ajie turned simultaneously towards her. It was Dr. Jane, giving them both a wide grin.


    "Ajie, Allie.."


    "You''re also going out of the country? " Ajie asked, surprised to see her pulling out her luggage.


    Dr. Jane raised her brows in surprise as she hugged Allie.


    "Hasn''t daddy told you that he also sent me to accompany you? "


    "No. "Ajie replied in a relatively surprised manner as he gave Allie a quick and a puzzled look.


    " Perhaps so that you won''t be too uncomfortable in a new place. It would take you a while before you will learn to adapt in your new environment. "


    Ajie nodded in agreement. Mr. Lopez''s kindness was already too overwhelming and he felt he didn''t deserve it anymore.


    "Please thank your dad in my


    behalf. " He said as he tried to hold back the tears which were threatening to come out.


    "He even asked me to let me take my degree in medicine there. "


    "Really? You''re already a PhD graduate, right? "


    "Exactly but I also want to be a developmental pediatrician so that I can help the children more."


    A developmental - behavioral pediatrician evaluates, counsels and provides treatment for children, adolescents and their families with a wide range of developmental and behavioral difficulties including learning disorders, intellectual incapacities, learning and behavioral disorders, delays in speech and many others.


    Ajie became more spellbounded and overhelmed. "I can''t believe your dad. "


    "Just as he couldn''t believe how you were so willing to exhaust your educational fund for a stranger. "


    ------


    Soon, Ajie and Dr.Jane''s names were paged for the last call to check - in. So, they both had to leave a thunderstruck Allie, who instead of being sad for his departure, would also be torn with doubts and jealousy.


    Questions were then raised into her mind. What really was the purpose of Mr. Lopez in sending him to Japan? Why did he have to send her daughter with him? Was he really carrying out his plan to create an opportunity for Ajie and Dr. Jane to be in a relationship? Recalling his interview about his rescue, he said that if he were to decide, he would do everything to get them married.


    Pain and sorrow crept into Allie''s heart as she carried Chloe in her arms. She didn''t care if tears were streaming down her face as she made her way to the parking lot. One of the good things that Ajie did during his stay was teaching her how to drive. And because of her strong desire to learn, she mastered it quickly.


    Ajie also converted his savings into a joint account so that she could have an access into it anytime especially that she was planning to open up a business. The three doors of the apartment were now occupied so their daily expenses would be covered by the monthly rental.


    Just as Allie was about to go out into the exit, she come across with someone she expected the least. It was Andrew. Thinking about what Ajie said, she was reluctant to talk to him but she was also curious to know about Andrew''s side of the story.


    "Lyz, what a small world! Why are you here? " Andrew excitedly approached her.


    Allie smiled widely at him, to make him think that Ajie did not tell anything about himself.


    "I''m sending off Ajie. " She answered briefly.


    "I see. With Dr. Jane to Japan. " He smiled and there were malicious glints in his eyes.


    To satisfy her curiousity why she knew about it, she thought of something.


    "Andrew, it''s been a long while since we last met. How about a catch up over coffee? "


    "Sure. When? " He asked excitedly.

 Chapter 55 - Andrews Version

    The aroma of the freshly brewing coffee and the sweet flavors of french vanilla, caramel and honey filled the room as Allie entered the coffee shop where she would met Andrew. She chose the farthest corner to allow them a good conversation, most of all the most confidential one she hoped to learn.


    Before she could even take a deep breath after reminiscing the moments where she and Ajie spent here, Andrew called out her name with those grin of his which almost reached his nape.


    "Andrew. "


    "I wish I did not keep you waiting," he began to apologize.


    "Not at all,"  she replied with her most attractive smile.


    With this, Andrew pressed the call button and a staff came over to take their orders.


    "Caramel Macchiato for me and?"  he glanced up at Allie to ask for her preference.


    "Your houseblend."


    " Got it, ma''am. Strong or moderate?"


    "Moderate."


    Andrew ordered some quesadillas and cheesecakes to go with their coffee before starting a conversation.


    "What were you doing at the airport?" Allie asked after he leaned back on his cushioned backrest.


    "Got a breakfast with Dr. Jane."


    "Really? " Allie gave out a fascinated look which boosted Andrew''s pride.


    "Actually, she handed me a proposal to do basic piano tutorials for her kids at Beautiful Haven."


    "Wow! " she exclaimed. It''s such a privilege to get a contract from a famous institution which could possibly endorse him to a higher opportunities.


    "I might as well accept it but I don''t think I have enough patience for these kind of children." There was indeed a sense of reluctance in his expression and honesty in his part.


    "Just try it. It''s a great accomplishment to be able to let them learn. It only means that you''re also a gifted mentor if you would be able to bring out the best in them." She cheered him up as she never doubted his potentials.


    "I''ll be thinking about it." He obviously dismissed the topic so Allie did not pushed about it anymore.


    Thinking about the reviews and testimonials on Beautiful Haven''s official page, Allie couldn''t help but admire Dr. Jane''s love and passion for these kind of children. She remembered how those parents of autistic children and those whose children were having learning disabilities wrote about their great change and improvement. There were even posted videos about their children''s stage performances. One of those which made her cry was about a ten year old girl on a solo piano performance, whose maturity delay was three years below her actual age.


    "Andrew, I think Dr. Jane likes you."


    Andrew held her gaze for a while before he gave a bitter smile.


    "I really wonder what kind of fate do I have. Everytime something good is about to happen to my life, Adrian is always there to snatch it up."


    Then, as if he realized how it would affect Allie, he quickly apologized.


    "I''m sorry, Lyz. Why did I forget that I am talking about your husband?"


    Allie was also quick to ride on the tide. She gave out a surprised and horrified look to give him an impression that she really didn''t know about him.


    "Go ahead, Andrew. I want to know more about my husband. He is a silent type who doesn''t like to talk about his past experiences. "


    "What are those things he told you about me? " he asked.


    "He only told me that you were childhood friends in your hometown and that he was surprised to meet you also in the university. But you seldom talked because you were both engaged in different activities."


    "Really? Only that?" He smirked and then laughed sardonically. In the next second, his eyes turned red and tears lurked at the corners of his eyes. His expression was both of anger and sadness.


    Allie stared at him and began to wonder whether or not Ajie was telling the truth. She just found out that Ajie was really good in speaking as if he was born for the stage. In that case, he could always articulate and drive simple messages to make it believable.


    "When Adrian and I met in the university, it was when we needed a male vocalist. Cherry, my girlfriend was facilitating a fundraising project for the student council''s charity fund. One of the projects was for our band to get engagement projects. Unfortunately, our male lead vocalist resigned and so it was how Adrian was offered the slot."


    "In every performance that we had, Cherry and Adrian always performed a duet so they did rehearsals by themselves. I really had no problem with it but eventually, I noticed their closeness. In every beach outings that we had, Adrian always pretended to go home only to find out one night that he was only taking a separate room away from us. And when everyone fell asleep, Cherry would sneak out to sleep with him."


    "I did not exposed them, in respect to Cherry''s mom. If not because of her, I wouldn''t be exposed to the music world and wouldn''t get the chance to perform on different hotels. If not because of her, I wouldn''t get a name."


    "A week before our graduation, we again had a beach outing. In my suppressed anger and pain, I drank much more than I could handle. I vomited profusely that Miss Perez got afraid. He stayed with me in my room. I didn''t know what happened, either because I was so drunk or I was just to weak to have a bikini - clad woman rubbing my back that I got out of control. You can imagine what''s next, I made love to her. To my surprise, perhaps because she was also drunk, she did not resist and so we fully enjoyed the moment."


    "I did not know how it happened, but Cherry found out about it. On the night of my graduation, she boarded MV Helena and in the peak of the storm, she went overboard."


    Allie gaped in shock with his side of the story and even felt that he was telling the truth. He spoke with too much emotion and there were even moments where he stopped to hold back his tears.


    "What happened then? Did you confront Adrian?"


    "Yes, we had a fight and he was even confined in a hospital due to wounds and bruises. That''s the reason why I came to Cebu much ahead of him. Cherry had mentioned about you one time and I learned that you''re also from Sto. Domingo so I expected you to be a member of Youth In Action."


    "I already warned Adrian that I''ll do a revenge for all that he did to me.That''s why I looked for you. All those offer that I did for Chloe was part of my revenge."


    "I''m sorry, Lyz, I was blinded with my anger then."


    Allie pondered everything that he said. All of it were factual. There seemed to be no lies at all. He was even honest of his horrible deed with Miss Perez and of his plan for revenge. He believed Ajie''s side of the story but Andrew''s side was more believable. He put too much emotion in every details and it was all realistic. His version supported the fact why Andrew came ahead.


    Who between the two of them really told the truth?

 Chapter 56 - Hurt Him Before He Tears You Apart

    "Eversince I was in Manila, Dr. Jane attended all my concerts. I was also surprised to see that she also follows me here in Cebu, only to know that she lives here. The irony is that, Adrian also comes in between us. It may sound assuming on my part, but I really feel that there is something special in her following me. Though this case is just concidental, granting that it was Adrian who happened to rescue her father, yet it really makes me wonder why we are always linked to each other. And honestly, this disappoints me. "


    Allie felt alarmed already. This extent of the conversation brewed up the turmoil inside her heart.


    "What do you exactly mean? " She asked while sipping on her cup. The caffeine in her coffee doubled up the painful pounding of her heart.


    "Allyza, you''re brilliant. Analyze these facts and try to see the motives behind. "


    "First, why does Adrian needs to continue his study abroad? If exposure to ship building is the reason, Kamelyo is just one of his shipyards all throughout the


    country."


    "Second, why does he also send his daughter to accompany him? Study? Would a foreign education be better than our own? Where do you think Adrian is going to live? Would it be in a separate boarding house when he owned a property? Would he necessarily spend for his lodging when he can make the advantage in housing them together? "


    "Third, Dr. Jane is an epitome of beauty and brilliance while Adrian is also a match to her beauty. Would an attraction between them seems unlikely to happen? "


    "Fourth, they are alone in the house except perhaps for some paid helpers. And that would be for two long years. Whose father isn''t hopeful for them to create a special relationship when he is feeding her to a predator? "


    "Mr. Lopez gives him too much so that he would be tied up in gratitude.He sees to it that in the future, he could not refuse what he would be asking. Mr. Lopez is a businessman. He calculates the return of investment before he releases a capital. What could be the return? Is marriage to her daughter impossible? "


    "Sooner or later, Adrian would be filing for annulment. You better save your pride because that is all you have right now. Hurt him ahead before he himself could tear you into pieces. "


    "Fifth, who are you against her daughter? Who are you against his friend he has indebted to? Look at those declared assets of Mr. Lopez. It all started with one man who believed in him. Do you think you''re more important to him than his friend? I may not know the extent of what you did, Allyza, but it''s clear that you were the one who gave the blueprint to Dino. Before the son of Mr. Dioko finds you, you better escape for your dear life. In a span of few years, you may not be able to see your child and your family, but eventually, you can file a petition for them. As for a husband, you''re still very young. "


    "How did you know about Mr. Dioko''s son? " Her curiousity was already killing her.


    "Dr. Jane said that his father cannot go to Japan for a long while, while the case of Mr. Dioko wouldn''t be solved yet. "


    "Allyza, Mr. Lopez could be a cunning person, that we are not sure. But what if in one of the gatherings of the wealthy, he would invite both Mr. Louise Dioko and Director General Alfonso? We know how tactless he could be when drunk. In such a way, he could be out of guilt because it would then be the drunk general who would sell you out. "


    Allie was speechless in all that Andrew revealed and analyzed. He was really reasonable and she could not find a way to argue with him. Sealing her doubts were the least anticipated evidences Andrew proved himself.


    Andrew opened up his phone and forwarded many kissing scenes of Ajie and Cherry in her messenger account. All of it were taken in different locations and in different attires.


    "Lyz, I''m really very sorry. I may hurt you now but I just want you to take up measures to save yourself and your family before it becomes too late. "


    ___


    Allie was so broken when she left the coffee shop. The grinding of the beans for brewing, the noisy breaking of ice cubes for frappucinos and the noisy conversations of the teens the moment they came inside the shop were nothing compared to the chaos and turmoil inside her mind.


    Thirty minutes later, she found herself in front of a door with a signage, "SHIRLEY AND RAY LAW OFFICE".


    Once in front of the lawyer finally, Allie was already shaking. Atty. Shirley Manlosa noticed her discomfort that she reached out to cover her hand with hers.


    "Don''t be afraid. I''m here to listen. "


    Allie looked up and smiled, some tears were already forming at the corners of her eyes.


    "Atty, my name is Allyza. I want a marriage annulment. What are the grounds for a marriage


    dissolution? "


    Atty. Manlosa smiled at her. Her face showed grief and frustration as well as confusion and innocence.


    "How long are you married?"


    "Barely a month''s time. "


    "My goodness! " She paused to conceal her dismay. "Were you forced into the marriage? "


    "No. "


    "Now, please tell me your story. "


    Allie suddenly realized her foolishness for rushing into a legal firm''s office. What would she tell? Everything Andrew told her were all baseless accusations.


    "Atty., I just feel being deceived.I''ve learned that my husband cheated on me. "


    "Is it happening now or before the marriage. "


    "Before."


    "Darling, talk about this matter to your husband. The reason why he didn''t tell you about it, was perhaps because it was insignificant and telling you about it would just unnecessarily hurt you. He marries you so it is clear that he loves you. "


    She wanted to argue and tell her that its because he had no choice because Cherry commited suicide. But she realized that it would just be a shallow argument so she decided to keep her silence...


    She left the lawyers office with a very troubled mind and a shattered heart. She locked herself in her room and scanned her mails. To her relief, one of the mails caught up her attention and perhaps, it was an answer to her prayers.


    "Gretels Shipping Lines is pleased to offer you a job as a personnel manager of one of the company''s construction site located in Istanbul, Turkey. "

 Chapter 57 - His Lies

    Tuzla is a municipality in the province of  Istanbul, Turkey. It is on a headland on the coast of the  Marmara Sea, at the eastern limit of the city. While there are many shipyards in the country, the biggest is found in Tuzla.


    Turkey, on the other hand, is a country that occupies a unique geographic position, lying partly in Asia and partly in Europe. It is bounded on the north by the Black Sea, on the southwest and west by the Mediterranean Sea and the Aegean Sea. The capital is Ankara, and its largest city and seaport is Istanbul.


    Most of the population is composed by Muslims, but its strong


    secularism has resulted in what have been perceived by some as strictures on the freedom of religion. In addition to the Muslim majority, there also exist small populations of Jews and Christians.


    Gretel Shipping Lines operated several cargo ships which covered in almost all ports of the world. Though its name only covered the shipping lines, it also owned a smaller shipyard compared to more than thirty shipyards in Tuzla, Istanbul. It was one of the ship repair facility in the Tuzla Bay. Perhaps due to poor management, it was not identified with remarkable naval work. However, due to much lower rate in drydocking , repair and conversion services, it was not left behind in terms of contracts. In this particularly less productive area, Allie was assigned.


    Allie squinted her brows when she scanned through the company''s profile , financial history and number of clients. She also compared it to the status of other shipyards. One thing was lacking in this company, a good management and advertising program. Perhaps, she thought, the investors of this company were just contented of their present status. Or perhaps, they were investing into much larger and more promising business ventures than this one. And this shipyard was just among their few investments.


    After her first lunchbreak, she locked herself in her office and did a video call with her parents. There she saw her daughter, jumping vigorously as she was held up to the screen for her to get a good view of her. Chloe looked up and, perhaps, she recognized her because she stopped from her jumping and stared at her. Then in the next second, she cried as she babbled her name.


    "Ma -mmma, mammma! "


    "My love, I''m sorry mama is away... "


    "Mamma.... "


    "Baby, I''m so sorry. "


    Allie felt her heart was stabbed. The innocent calls of her daughter and her engorged breasts sent her an indescribable pain deep inside that she cried hard and bitterly. All she wanted at that moment was to fly back home and hold her close once again! Without saying goodbye, she turned off her computer.The sight of her precious family was too hard to bear.


    She recalled the night after she talked to Andrew. Ajie called her up


    and they did a video call.


    "Why are your eye bags swollen? "


    Ajie asked worriedly.


    She did not reply but her tears immediately ran down her cheeks.


    "Allie, I don''t want to see you like that. Please book a flight as soon as possible and come over here. " He sincerely demanded.


    "Where are you now? " She asked, looking past him and into the background which looked like a feminine bedroom.


    "I''m in my assigned room in Mr. Lopez'' house here in Japan. "


    "It looks feminine. " She commented.


    "Yes, this used to be Jane''s bedroom. "


    Jane. He was calling her in a first name basis.


    "Jie, I happened to talk to Andrew this afternoon and he told me many things about you and Cherry. "


    Ajie furrowed his brows and his smile disappeared.


    "What did he say? " He asked.


    "He said that you and Cherry were into a relationship. "


    "What? "


    "Yes. Adrian, tell me honestly, is it true? "


    "My love, what are you talking


    about? Haven''t we talked about it already? Cherry was special to me but only as a friend. "


    "Andrew has lots of evidence. He showed many photos of you and Cherry kissing each other. "


    "I have kissed only one woman and its you. "


    "What about those photos? "


    "It''s likely photoshopped. "


    "How can you prove it that it was not


    you? "


    "It''s simple, my love. Trust me. That is the only way I can prove myself. And besides, it''s all in the past. "


    Suddenly, the door opened and Dr. Jane barged in. Startled, Ajie suddenly seemed to forget that she was still there.


    "What happen? " Ajie stood up and turned to her.


    "I''m. scared, Adrian. I heard a strange sound in my room. Can I just sleep beside you?"


    Without waiting for Ajie''s answer, she turned off her laptop.


    ___


    While lying on her bed feeling so bad about what she saw, her phone vibrated. A notification popped up that Andrew sent a video. She hurriedly opened it up and it was now a clear evidence that Ajie really lied at her.


    The short video opened up with a closed up image of Ajie and Cherry whose faces were only about an inch apart. Then, the camera was was zoomed away from them. Ajie was then shown bending down his head while his hand held up her chin. They were kissing!


    That was the most painful truth being slapped at her. She could have accepted it if only he was just being honest.


    Now, there was Dr. Jane. How strong could he resist her?


    During the days that followed while waiting for her papers, she still chatted and answered his calls, pretending that she did not know about his lies. And she was hurt by all those sweet words he threw at her. She never expected that all those were just flatteries.

 Chapter 58 - Tears In The Shipyard

    As a personnel manager assigned to a shipyard, Allie felt a strong need to learn the theoretical and practical knowledge of ship design and construction. Since she had nothing to do after her duty hours and to also cover up her boredom and homesickness, she decided to take up an online course in Naval Architecture.


    The fundamental online course would help her understand a ship design, construction, repair, modification, stability and operation of vessels and other floating structures within the marine environment.


    The irony of it was the fact that this was supposedly Ajie''s world only. It was beyond her wildest dream that one day she would be learning about this industry. It was his dream to build the most beautiful and the biggest ship in the country. And because of this, he accepted the offer to study in Japan.


    The largest shipyard that Mr. Lopez owned was located in Japan and it was in this place that Ajie would expose himself. Numerous marine vessels were built in this construction site but what made him famous was his production of the most luxurious yachts in the world.


    Mr. Lopez was hoping to apply in Ajie the law of attraction through this method. When one dreams about something, he or she must expose himself to things associated and relevant with the dream because as what Napoleon Hills said, what the mind can conceive and believe, the body can surely achieve.


    The law of attraction says that you will attract into your life whatever you focus on. Whatever you give your energy and attention to will come back to you. So, if you stay focused on the good and positive things in your life, you will automatically attract more good and positive things into your life.


    So, if Ajie stays earlier on the ship building site before he could even complete his theoretical degree, the chances for his success and the fulfillment of his dream were very high.


    ___


    When the time difference reminded Allie that it was already midnight in Japan, she logged in to her Facebook and Messenger accounts which she had deactivated after Andrew sent her the video. She refused to be hurt further because the already mounting miseries she tried hard to bear, were already beyond her capacity to endure.


    The moment she successfully logged in, notifications instantly turned into hundreds. Most of it from Ajie and few from Andrew. She smirked when she saw that Ajie changed his profile into their wedding photos and his cover was their first kiss as husband and wife. Looking at those photos which were portraits of love and happiness she thought she would forever enjoy, tears immediately slid down from her eyes. What if Cherry had not commited suicide, would he still come back to her?


    Scanning through other messages, she tried hard to skip on Andrew''s first message line in bold letters. Yet, no matter how hard she tried to ignore it, the more it become tempting. Finally, she closed her eyes as she tapped a finger on his account name.


    It was again a photo taken inside a bedroom. Lying on the bed was a half - covered woman and a man was hovering on top of her. She closed her eyes again and refused for a moment to accept that it was indeed Ajie and Cherry. Nudging the already festering wound inside her heart was the fact that Ajie was wearing his favorite shirt. She even recalled one moment where she let him change into a new one because she was already tired of seeing him in that same attire whenever they went out. That, perhaps, explained why he liked the shirt so much. Perhaps because it held a special memory of him and Cherry.


    Some photos were just recently sent. Those were again poses of him and Dr. Jane in different areas of the shipyard and inside the yacht. Those may not be maliciously intimate ones but they looked so happy together.


    ___


    Days passed by and Ajie wondered why Allie''s social media accounts couldn''t be searched anymore. The apps which they used in their visual conversation or video calling all told him that the "contact name is not


    found". He called up her number and to his relief, it was answered. But he shranked back when he heard that it was not Allie on the other line but her mother.


    "Ma, may I talk to Allie? " Ajie asked after their exchanges of greetings.


    "I''m sorry, son but she''s still not around. "


    "Where did she say she is going? "


    "I really don''t know. "


    "How long has she been away? "


    "Around thirty minutes. "


    "Ma, I''d been trying to call her up but all her accounts were deactivated. Please tell her to call me back. "


    After the next two hours and the next hours that followed thereafter, Ajie called up again and again. He already felt that something was wrong and that they were hiding something.


    Before he went to sleep, he tried to call again. Luckily, it was still picked up and to his relief, it was Allie.


    "Jie, I''m sorry I left my phone. "


    "You make me so worried! Why are your accounts deactivated? " His worried tone made her feel sick.


    "For my security. Many of our relatives are tortured and killed after some fruitless interrogation. I cannot risk myself. " She answered coldly.


    "Allie, I already want to see you and Chloe ! How long would I wait? "


    Lies. With such a sweet and beautiful woman to warm his bed at night, why would he still want to see her?


    "Until Mr. Louise Dioko will stop his pursuit on the spy. "


    "I''ll go home and take both of you here with me. "


    So that he could fool her? To sneak up to Dr. Jane''s bed when she would fall asleep just as he did with Cherry?


    "Focus on your studies, instead. We will visit you once Chloe is ready to travel. "


    They talked for more than few minutes before Allie''s mom hung up the phone and Allie herself turned off her video cam. Never did she realize how good she can pretend and hold back the bitterest cry she had withheld until she could be alone. Until only the walls of her room could witness those bloody tears of loneliness and pain.

 Chapter 59 - New Course

    What started out as just a plan to have a general concept of how a boat was being constructed and designed, turned out eventually as an obsession. Her online course in Naval Architecture created in her an inner desire to learn more.


    She wrote a proposal to the company''s board of directors to allow her to report two hours earlier daily with no lunchbreak. Her reason was so that she could enroll in a university and take up a degree in Naval Architecture. To understand the company''s business better and to lay down the foundation of her new dream to build and design superyachts, were her main objectives stated in that proposal.


    One of her heads was greatly fascinated with her plan as he saw that she was indeed a dedicated employee.


    "How will you be able to help the company with your decision,


    Missy? " Mr. Gregorio fixed her gaze at her as he asked, delving deeper into the sincerity of her request.


    "I am dreaming that the shipyard will be separated distinctively from the banner of the main business which is the shipping line. And that it will have its own separate name and production. "


    Mr. Gregorio pulled his brows together.


    "Missy, what do you mean? "


    "I wish that this company would expand, apart from the banner of the mother business. We will not just repair and reconstruct ships, we will be builders of superyachts and cruise ships. " She answered sincerely , in an eye to eye challenge.


    "Then Missy, how are your wishes related to your proposal? "


    Allie remained looking straight at him without batting an eyelash.


    "I will be this company''s vessel designer, Mr. Gregorio. "


    ___


    Mr. Dioko made his way out of his prison cell, assisted by six jail guards. Very special guests waited for him outside, his son Louise and his friend Mr. Gregorio. The latter was his trustee in all the businesses on sole proprietorship under his son''s name. Louise was still seventeen years old and was still incapable of handling businesses.


    After an emotional greetings, they gathered together in a rectangular table.


    "Son, I hope you won''t follow my footsteps. Study hard and make a name in the business world, your uncle is there to guide and train


    you. " He said as he glanced up at Mr. Gregorio.


    Louise looked down and felt guilty. His dad must have been aware of his revenge for him.


    "Stop avenging for me. This will do you no good in the end. " He spoke a little louder than a whisper since the guards around them were keenly watching.


    "Bud, a new personnel manager in our dockyard requested the company to allow her to enroll in a university so she could help in the development of the company. " Mr. Gregorio then relayed to him the details of what she could offer to the company in return.


    " She said she wanted to be the builder and designer of the worlds most beautiful and most luxurious superyachts in the soon future. "


    Mr. Dioko''s eyes lit up in excitement.


    "What''s the condition? "


    "She only asks to allow her to report two hours earlier with no lunchbreak. "


    "Let her report on time and give her only four hours to work. Pay her school''s tuition fee and give her a good allowance. "


    Mr. Gregorio was suddenly taken aback of his friend''s reaction.


    "He will be the second Angelo Lopez, remember? "Mr. Dioko then reminded his friend about Mr. Angelo''s similar determination before which made him a very successful man.


    "She." Mr. Gregorio corrected.


    "What? "Mr. Dioko''s eyes widened.


    "She is a very beautiful lady in her early twenties. I called her Missy because she really is a miss among our robust men. "


    His eyes then shifted to Louise.


    "Come with me, Louise. Study with her. I''m sure you will really like her. "


    Mr. Dioko was the happiest among them all.


    "Son, I really want you to have a very good and guilt - free life, away from enemies and chaotic life. Go with your uncle. "


    Mr. Dioko was really not a wicked man. However, he fell into a wrong circle of friends who trapped him into doing the business in the black market. He could not go out and escape anymore the moment he learned the true nature of the business.


    He launched different scholarship programs and employed them in his companies once they graduated. Mr. Angelo Lopez was one of them. Mr. Dioko was ten years older than Angelo but his fondness of him as a diligent and determined person, eventually brought his heart closer to him and they became bestfriends.


    ____


    When Louise arrived home later with Mr. Gregorio, he almost fainted in shock the moment he saw their guest sitting comfortably in the couch of their living room. His dangerous aura emitted guns, daggers and cuffs in the eyes of those who were guilty. And Louise was one of them.


    "General Alfonso, it''s been a long while. " Mr. Gregorio came towards him happily. He was so happy to see his close friend and classmate he had not seen for a long time.


    The Director General stood up and spread his arms to hug him.


    "What makes you come here miraculously? " Mr. Gregorio chuckled out loudly, he knew he was a very busy man.


    General Alfonso then looked at Louise who was suddenly stripped off of his fearless aura and appeared like a wet chick in front of him.


    "Louise, as my bestfriend Angelo''s nephew, I personally come here to warn you. You are under our surveillance for already a long while and we know all about the crimes you do to avenge your father. "


    "Will you let your men stop the cruelty immediately or do I need to tell you what I would do? " The dark and burning eyes of General Alfonso seemed to melt down his professed ferocity.


    He did not say a word and remained looking down like an eagle with broken wings.


    "I won''t force you to stop if that is not your choice. However, I won''t also respect whoever you may be after this warning. "


    The two older men then got engrossed in their conversation. They even called up Mr. Lopez to come over and soon bottles of wine were served. Louise remained seated in a corner and listened to their conversation. He was too afraid to stand up.


    Soon, General Alfonso got drunk and his tactlessness resurfaced.


    "Poor Dioko boy. He perhaps never expected that his kingdom could be toppled down by just a girl under his scholarship program. "


    "Alfonso.... " Mr. Angelo tried to stop him by tapping on his shoulder but as a typical drunk man who easily lost his wit and reasoning power, he further added a hole into his crime.


    "This girl named Allyza is so fragile and small but who knew she could be that terrible...."

 Chapter 60 - Strike of Danger

    After receiving a memorandum that her proposal was accepted, she woke up earlier the next day. She changed into a navy - blue denim jeans and a white polo shirt. On the upper left part of the shirt just below the tip of its collar, was the company logo in dark blue threads. She then stood before a mirror and applied light touches to her eyes and lips. Leaving her wet hair hang loosely on her shoulders, she put on her brown sunglasses and slid herself behind the steering wheel of her company - issued car.


    The sun had just peeped a little high above the horizon, casting its golden rays into the pale, blue sea when Allie parked her car in the shipyard. She walked the distance from her office to the shoreline where there were fleets of cargo and passenger ships sprawling across the vast stretch of the sea. Bright, silver lights cascaded from the top of these vessels as soldering rods were continously burning.


    She gazed at the hulls of these ships and admired at the intricate ways these part were perfectly molded and shaped. She marveled at the mathematical equations of each dimensional contour to make the vessel float in complete balance despite the external pressures like water, air, movements and weight. The more her desire grew to immerse herself into learning more about this. Never did she expect that she would enter the world Ajie had been dreaming for himself. Unfortunately, she took a different entry, too far from him.


    The more she gazed into these huge vessels, the more she got herself engrossed in wild imagination that someday this shipyard would soon be building superyachts according to the designs she would create. She reviewed the new releases by AJ&J Builders, the world''s top builder of luxurious yachts, and swore that someday, she would be their competitor.


    She kept on walking by the gutter at the edge of the shoreline while being engulfed into deep thinking. She perhaps was not being aware that she was already in the area where huge containers were piled up. Though the sun was already a little up above the horizon, this area was still dark due to the high piles of these cargo containers.


    Suddenly, a big hand covered her mouth while her body was pressed into a man''s huge built while quickly dragged into the middle of the rows of the container. Being caught offguard, her fear overpowered her natural instinct to fight and free herself. Her heart pounded eratically and loudly and her vocal chords suddenly became powerless. She wanted to scream and ask for help but her voice did not cooperate. She wanted to wriggle and free herself but the trembling of her body drained herself.


    The man spoke to her angrily in a language she couldn''t understand. His stinky smell for having not bathed for hundred years totally suffocated her, making herself an obedient prey to a slaughter. Her tears slid down fast as despair overlapped her faint inner scream to fight.


    She saw the man zipped out his pants and she watched in horror as he pulled it down. She summoned all her strength to fire up and she felt a rush of adrenaline as her last chance seemed to slip away. While the man was busy pulling his pants down, she raised one leg up and with all her strength, she kicked his genital area with the heel of her wedge sandals.


    Caught offguard, the man stepped backwards and crouched in pain. Seeing that the attention of the man was diverted, she quickly stood up and ran as fast as she could. Just as she was about to turn towards the open area, her back was hit by a hard object. The impact was too hard and painful that she stumbled on the ground. Still powered by her remaining adrenaline supply, she closed her eyes for a while and with a determination to save herself, she quickly got up and set herself to run again.


    Unfortunately, the man caught her up and dragged her back in a fiercier manner this time. She wriggled wildly and screamed for help at the top of her lungs. Angered by her scream, the man kicked her legs and she instantly curled up in pain. Just as the man was about to strike his second blow, a loud sound was heard.


    "Bang! "


    With the deafening sound of a fired gun, her fear and despair seized her completely that her vision became blurred. In the next second, her surroundings turned into a complete darkness. What was being retained into her last memory was the vague sillhoutte of two men...


    ____


    Ajie already felt uncomfortable. He had called up Allie many times but his mother - in - law was always the one who answered him. If asked where Allie was, her answer was always repetitive. There was always a sound of fear and repitition, giving him a clue that there was indeed an existing problem.


    While being absorbed in his thoughts, his phone sounded. He hurriedly picked it up, thinking that it could be Allie already because the number displayed the Philippine''s country code. But to his dismay, it was Dino instead.


    "Jie, is Allie changing a phone number?"


    Ajie was confused. How important was the purpose of this call that Dino was willing to be charged with a high cost for this international call?


    "Why do you ask? "


    "Because it is her mother who always answered my calls. "


    The more Ajie suspected that Allie and her parents were really hiding something from him.


    "Same thing with me. " Ajie confessed.


    "My goodness! Where is this woman hiding? " Dino was already so worried and Ajie noticed it.


    "Something important? "


    Dino sighed as reluctance to tell Ajie the truth held him back. But unable to think of other ways to connect to her, he eventually decided to let Ajie pass the message.


    "Jie, please tell Allie to be extra careful. Our friends are almost on their way. " Dino then narrated what happened at the house of Mr. Dioko.


    Ajie hurriedly hung up without bidding goodbye to Dino, grabbed his sling bag and directly went to the airport.


    .

 Chapter 61 - Im A Dangerous Man

    Lying limply on the ground after being kicked to death, she still saw the man took off his clothes. She saw his evil smile as he began removing her pants and her blouse. Contrary to her abating strength, was her flaring heartbeats, throbbing painfully against her chest. It'' s loudness even drowned his devilish laughter after he succesfully removed the last tiny pieces off from her body. She screamed in fright and despair as the man spread up her legs forcefully and began licking her inner thighs. His tounge moved upward while goosebumps spread all throughout until it reached her most private territory. Screaming from the top of her lungs and wailing at the same time, she struggled to free herself...


    "Miss, Miss, wake up! " Allie scrambled to her feet as she was awakened to the strong tugging of her shoulders.


    She instantly trembled as her eyes opened to see the gentle face of a young man who was bending over her. She hadn''t seen him before. His almond - shaped eyes surrounded by long, thick lashes made him different from all of the men she met in this place. His milky white skin made him look younger and his naturally flushed cheeks reminded her of the pinkish face of Chloe.


    "Who are you? Where am I? " She asked boldly as she looked around in a frightened expression.


    She was already inside a beautifully - designed room, furnished with contemporary and elegant furnitures. The bed she was lying in was large and her bedside lamp on top of a wooden table displayed elegance.


    "In my room here in the office. " He answered but he quickly turned his back on her right away. His short answer made her crazy.


    "In your office? Where? Who are you? " She desperately asked as her scary memories in the shipyard rushed back into her mind.


    Waiting for his answer which seemed to never come at all, the door was opened and to her great relief, it was Mr. Gregorio.


    "Missy, I''m glad you''re up! " He said as he worriedly approached her by the bedside.


    "Sir..." A lump suddenly formed in her throat that she couldn''t speak. She couldn''t believe that she was still breathing and seemed to be in a safe room. Tears instantly followed and in the next moment, she found herself sobbing all her fear out.


    "Missy, what are you doing in the area? It was still very early and the place was dangerous." Mr. Gregorio said as he rubbed her back and touched her head like a father to a crying daughter.


    Allie smiled weakly before she answered.


    "I was just looking around to see how big is our place. I watched the men working and imagined myself designing my own craft. Most importantly, as I requested, I came early so that I can still go to school afterwards. "


    Mr. Gregorio nodded in admiration. He saw her sincerity and how she instantly got lost whenever she thought about designing her own crafts.


    "From now on, report to work at 8 am to 12 pm until your schooling will be completed. I''ll send you a written agreement for that. "


    "What? " She looked surprised and overjoyed, momentarily forgetting her terrifying experience earlier.


    "Yes, Missy. " His smile got wider as he reached out a hand to congratulate her.


    "Thank you so much, sir. "


    "Our pleasure, Missy. As long as you will be faithful according to what you have promised. "


    "By God''s grace, sir. "


    Allie got teary - eyed to hear this amazing surprise after she almost died in fear.


    "By the way, Hayri saw you being dragged. He hurried back to the office to call the guard. When they went back to rescue you, the man was about to kick you but the guard fired his gun into the air. "


    "Thank you, Lord..." She mumbled in silent prayer of thanksgiving as to how she was rescued. She was sure that that Hayri just happened to drop by.


    "Who is Hayri? " She asked, wondering if he was a utility worker or an engineer who happened to pass by.


    Mr. Gregorio turned to the young man who woke her up who was now lying comfortably in the couch while watching TV.


    "Hayri, introduce yourself to Missy. "


    He ordered and surprisingly, the young man stood up obediently and extended a hand towards her.


    "I''m Hayri, my Turkish name. Glad to meet you. " He said with a gentle smile but slumped back to the couch afterwards, placing both of his legs on the arm rest.


    "Sleep again, Missy, to relax your mind then I''ll bring you both to the university in two hours. "


    Take them both to the university? She wanted to ask more about it but he saw him winked at her with a "will-talk-about-it-later" look.


    "Who''s room is this? "She surely couldn''t bring herself to sleep again in a stranger''s room.


    "It''s Hayri''s. Stay here before I could


    clear out everything. "


    Noticing her discomfort, Hayri stood up and followed Mr. Gregorio to the door.


    "Sleep again, Missy. I''ll wake you up after an hour. " Hayri said as he looked back at her over his shoulder while opening the door.


    She watched him closed and reopened the door as he forgot to switch off the light. Allie hurriedly sprang up to her feet and dropped down on her knees by the bed. She cried hard as she thanked God for the way He arranged the coming of Hayri into the area to be His channel of rescuing her. In all the remaining time, Allie poured out her heart''s contents in that special moments of prayer. She commited her and Ajie''s dreams and plans to the Lord as well as the guidance and protection for her whole family.


    "Lord, I may be wrong in my decision to run away but please turn this mistake into a blessing for all of us and for all the people around me. "


    She did not know that Hayri was already standing by the door when she uttered her last prayer loudly. He felt something strange inside. What kind of heart this woman has? That''s maybe why his uncle travelled the distance just to tell his father about her. He may had already seen something different in her.


    As Allie stood up, she right away saw Hayri by the door bringing a tray of food.


    "I''m sorry for disturbing you, Miss. But you need to get up now and prepare. "


    Allie gave him a smile before answering. "It''s alright. "


    "Come, take your breakfast. What they have on the kitchen are only egg, rice and beef tapa. We''ll drop by the grocery later. "


    Allie could not help but cry at this kindness. She brushed her tears quickly away as she thanked him.


    "I don''t know your taste. So I just bring along some sachets of sugar and creamer for your coffee. "


    "Thank you so much again, sir! "


    Hayri turned to her and giggled.


    "Please, please. Call me Hayri at all times. "


    His giggling was contagious and so Allie laughed but in a moment, she became emotional .


    "Thanks again for rescuing me, Hayri "


    Hayri didn''t reply right away. He looked outside the window for few minutes before he turned to her.


    "I''m also a dangerous man, Missy. Only that I hate any case of **** especially with beautiful women like you. "


    "But I swear, once that woman who destroyed our family will be handed over to me, I will **** her ruthlessly until her last piece of human dignity will be stripped off from her soul! "

 Chapter 62 - Ill Be Taking Care Of You

    Allie gave him a puzzled look but she never dared to ask. It''s clearly a confidential matter but perhaps because of his anger for destroying his family as he said, he couldn''t help himself but blurt it out at times.


    How did that woman destroyed his family?


    She ate silently as Hayri got occupied with something in his phone. The food tasted so good and the energizing aroma of the brewed coffee blended it so well. She looked up absentmindedly just as Hayri ran his eyes on her. Their gazed locked up for a moment which momentarily made Allie clumsy but he hurriedly stood up and leave the room. She wondered if she had offended him but when he was back, he already brought with him a glass and a pitcher of cold water.


    "Sorry, I forgot your water. " He said as he poured down the water on a pitcher into her glass.


    "Here, take this. "


    Allie got overwhelmed and she suddenly ran short of words. Who was Hayri in this company? Was he a new employee Mr. Gregorio hired? "


    "Hayri, I''m already so ashamed. Thank you so much. " She gave him a pursed and shy smile as she forced herself to look up at him.


    "Women should be loved and taken care of according to dad and uncle. I''ll be taking care of you because you are the only lady out of the hundred employees here except the housekeepers. "


    "Thank you," was all Allie could say.


    Soon, Mr. Gregorio came in and gestured for them to come out. They walked together to the parking lot beside their office building. As she was about to open her car, Mr. Gregorio called out for her to join them in their car.


    As she was walking back towards them, Hayri held out the door for her before he sat down beside her as Mr. Gregorio settled himself beside the driver. She was already becoming uncomfortable that Hayri was indeed taking the role of a gentleman for her.


    Once in the registrar''s office, Mr. Gregorio saw to it that they had the same schedule and course that would start in the afternoon.


    "Hayri, what''s the course you were taking prior to this? " Allie had been wondering about it eversince they started picking up the prospectus.


    "Business, going fourth year. "


    So, he was already a graduating student!


    "Why are you shifting? "


    Hayri glanced at her sideways before he answered.


    "Because dad wants me to also understand the business. I will be continuing my business subjects in the morning. "


    His dad wanted him to understand the business? What was their business? Was it also related to ship


    building?


    As the three of them went to the cashier, Allie prepared the amount enough for the enrollment and miscellaneous fee. Though she had an access to Ajie''s money, she made sure that she wouldn''t be touching it unless it would be for business transactions.


    "Give me the sum of the whole year''s


    payment, miss. " She heard Mr. Gregorio spoke to the teller as she stood in queue after him. Hayri was just sitting down on the bench and played with his phone.


    "Here, sir. " The teller handed him the statement and in return, Mr. Gregorio also handed her his card.


    Was the company paying for Hayri? Her curiousity of who Hayri was intensified most especially that he called Mr. Gregorio as his uncle.Perhaps, he was his nephew.


    After the teller handed Mr. Gregorio the receipt, he moved away and Allie walked forward to the front.


    "Missy, let''s go. " Mr. Gregorio said as he gently pulled her shoulder with his hand.


    "For a while, sir. I have to pay first. "


    "I have paid both of your whole year''s tuition fee already. "


    "What? " Her eyes widened in disbelief as she stared at him to see if he was indeed sincere or not.


    "Yes. Hayri''s dad offered to pay your tuition as long as you will give him a good grade. But under two conditions..."


    "I''m already afraid, sir. " She said as she hadn''t still got over with the surprise.


    "Once you will have a failing grade, you will have to pay him twice the amount. Second, you will have to move out from your current boarding house and stay in the office with Hayri. The whole top floor is Hayri''s residence. I have my room there and there is also another one assigned for you. I am always out of the country so I and his dad don''t want him to be alone. "


    Allie breathed out heavily. She thought it was something too difficult to do.


    "No problem, sir. "


    Their next stop was in a huge grocery store. Allie now understood why Hayri said they only had eggs and beef tapa and that they need to drop by in a grocery. Hayri picked up the foods he liked while Allie focused on the spices, fruits and vegetables.


    On their way back to the office, they picked up her things and Allie officially moved into her new home.While Hayri pulled in then luggages into her room just beside his room, the housekeepers picked up their grocery bags and placed it neatly on the cupboards.


    Allie looked around her room. It was beautifully designed like a hotel''s suite room. Her floor - to - ceiling window across her king - sized bed, gave her a full view of the shipyard. The view would be her daily reminder of her new dream. She also had a small, fully - furnished living room with expensive sets of appliances and furnitures like its private home theatre. The 4o - inch - TV set with diamonds studs across its sleek, black frame, looked like a jewelry box attached to the wall.


    In one corner was a computer set of latest model and in other corners were a bookshelf, a study table and a coffee table.


    Allie''s tears dropped in seeing this display of elegance. Having grown up in the swamp area of Kamelyo, she didn''t deserve to enjoy this alone. She could have been happier if she''s with her daughter, her husband and her parents. They were her only treasure, her only reason why she chose to run away. As for Ajie''s dishonesty, she could always forgive him if only he would admit it.


    She could always go back to him if he could wait, if he wouldn''t marry Dr. Jane instead. If he would file for a marriage annulment, the process would take faster because she would have no court appearance.


    It was already five in the afternoon when she finished her rearrangement inside her room. She hurriedly went out to the kitchen and prepared for their dinner. She was good in bringing out the taste of her dishes, only that she needed to learn more about cooking. Back then, she always loved to cook but their financial constraints in buying ingredients hindered her progress. Now that Hayri seemed to have no problem in buying it, she could also be the best cook she wanted herself to be.


    She knocked at Hayri''s door after having prepared their dinner. He was on an ear set when he opened it up and he gestured that he would still be into it for a while. She nodded but instantly froze when she heard him shouting orders into the other line.


    "Of course, all the computers in the office and all the files were burned. So go to all universities the company was offering the scholarship program before and look for the name Allyza! "

 Chapter 63 - I Want To Find Her

    At about two in the morning, Mary and Sam woke up to the persistent ringing of their phone. Thinking that it could be an emergency call, Mary sprang up to her feet and picked it up. It was Joshua, her cousin''s son who worked in Kamelyo''s Mega Lab before.


    "Auntie, had Allie gone out of her head? Did she ever know that there is no secret which could remain hidden forever? "


    "Joshua! Why are you ranting at this hour? What''s happening? "


    "Auntie, somebody had leaked out an information that she was the primary source of all the secrets which caused the downfall of Kamelyo''s drug cartel. Why did she betray them? And how is she going to live once she will be caught? Mr. Dioko''s son instructed me to hand her directly to him because he himself would do the punishment. "


    Joshua cursed a thousand times in his pity, anger and fear for his cousin. How could she stand tall against a mighty tower? How could she fully hack a tough stronghold?


    "Joshua, please do something..." It was all Mary could say as the reality of Allie''s situation sank in, making her knees wooble in great fear.


    "Auntie, where is she? Tell me so that we can divert our search for her. " Joshua demanded so angrily that in the next second, he was already crying.


    "Such a fool woman! She didn''t know how dangerous it is to go against a drug syndicate! I swear to kill her myself with one shot before she would be tortured in the hands of the enemy. "


    Mary and Sam cried harder as they listened to the desperate tone and anger of their nephew, knowing that he was not threatening them at all.


    "She''s into hiding, Josh, but we don''t know where. "


    "Fine! Tell her to hide forever! " Josh ended his call abruptly, leaving the two helpless on what they should do.


    Just then, their quivering heightened when their door alarm sounded. Who could be visiting them in the middle of the night? They decided to ignore it despite the persistent pressing of whoever was outside. They were too afraid that it could be Allie''s hunters.


    Allie''s phone then rang and Sam hurried up to answer it. To his relief, it was Ajie telling them to open the door for him. Once he was inside, he saw their frightened expressions, their inflamed eye bags and reddened noses.


    "What happened to you? " He asked as he took their hands to bless him.


    With quivering voice, they told him everything including Allie''s escape, Joshua''s call and the succesive killings and torture of their relatives.


    Ajie was indeed right in leaving Japan hurriedly. He felt something wasn''t right. There were even times when he woke up in the middle of the night due to his rapid heartbeats. He heard Mr. Lopez and Louise in the first place but in his excitement for his dreams, he took it for granted. When he last talked to Allie, she told him about her precautions against her enemies but still he ignored it.


    And now Allie''s gone. She ran away for her life without even telling him about it. She may had felt humiliated because he never showed any concern for her safety. She may had felt she was not being heard that''s why she sought solutions of her problem alone.


    He suddenly felt remorse for his indifference. He felt incapacitated as a husband. He felt that Allie was indeed wrong in marrying him because in this fearful situation where he should have been there to lighten her fears, he rather proved himself useless. He felt so guilty and ashamed but it was already too late. Where could she be hiding now?


    "Jie, we''re worrying for the safety of your daughter. It''s seems that there''s no safe place to hide. We just hope that they will spare the innocent. "


    With this, Ajie cried bitterly, barely unable to stiffle his urge to sob. He could not bring them to Japan since the first clues of the enemies to her location would be the people related to her. He could not also hide them in Mr. Lopez''s residence because his loyalty to his friend was expected to outweigh his gratitude in him. He could neither bring them to his home in Molave for the same reason as he couldn''t bring them along with him in Japan.


    While he racked his brain in coming up for a right decision, his phone vibrated. It was Dr. Jane.


    "Jane, I''m sorry for leaving


    hurriedly. " He said apologetically over the line.


    "I can only forgive you once you tell me the problem. "


    Within the short time he and Jane had been living under one roof, Jane had become a very good friend to him. She was not only a good listener but was also a very good adviser. Having established a great bond already, Ajie did not hesitate to confide everything to her.


    "Jie, wait for me. I''ll catch the next plane. Just tell your parents - in -law to pack up some things. "


    Just as she said, Dr. Jane arrived sooner than they expected. She brought them to her house in Beautiful Haven. The place is secluded and exclusive only to the children and their recognized guardians. The security was also very tight so they were much safer to stay there than anywhere else. Her own dad even seldomly visited her there and when he did, he only met her at her office.


    They could not also let them escape to other countries easily as papers in the Philippines took years to process. Neither of them were ready, even Chloe herself.


    When everyone was settled comfortably and was able to take a deep breath, Ajie voiced out his grief to Jane.


    "I want to find her, Jane. I can no longer focus on my studies if I won''t know if she''s safe or not. "


    "I''ll find a way to trace her name in flight or departure records. " Jane offered, thinking about their connections in the business industry.


    "How long has it been since she called up her parents? " She asked further.


    "According to them, just few days ago. Yet, she informed them ahead that she might not be able to call them for a long while due to the threats. "


    "Is she not worried about your child''s safety? "


    "She instructed them to inform me but I have acted ahead. "


    There was a long pause in their conversation as both were engrossed in their thoughts. Just then, Ajie''s phone rang and he frowned as he read the name of the caller.

 Chapter 64 - The Lions Den

    Ajie felt bad in seeing his name in his phone screen. What could this person do now? He was not able to keep the confidentiality of his wife''s status. Those cover - ups he sent as frontliners were swayed by the glitters of gold. Its sparks made them open their mouth in exchange of the information which could endanger someone''s life. Endanger, if the fugitive could escape. What if she could not?


    Adding tragedy to her misfortune, her exposure happened carelessly within the domestic comfort of the enemy''s home. Just as how a fellow soldier could accidentally kill a fellow soldier through a friendly fire.


    "Dino... "


    "Ajie, I''m sorry that the current steps may be too weak but I''m trying to pull out all informations about her even in the web. I have even talked to all the responsible personnel in the schools and the university she had attended, including her organizations. "


    " I just hope that this would work and that we won''t be betrayed. The rise of revenge which creeps through the dark is really inevitable. Rest assured, I''m doing my best. "


    Ajie shuddered at the thought of Allie being captured lawlessly by her enemies. The possibilities were deranging and frightening. If only he could bring back the time when Allie started to show her worries for life! He would have planned an escape for the three of them in a faraway land rather than pursuing his dream first.But he was late, too late!


    Lots of terrifying thoughts were slowly killing him. Where was she hiding? In the mountains? In scary forests and dark caves? With the insurgents? Or, the protesters of the metropolis?


    "Dino, I need to know where she is now! " He was already getting desperate. Just what sense there was to continue working for his dream when Allie could possibly be suffering out there?


    "I have already checked all the ports of exit but her name was not in it. She hasn''t gone out of the city yet . "


    ___


    Meanwhile in Tuzla, Istanbul....


    Allie retraced her steps back when she heard Hayri fuming in anger. She was not wrong, she was sure she heard him right! He talked about school records and mentioned her name. Just who was Hayri? Could he be an enemy following her?


    She dreaded at the thought that maybe he was one of those who were tasked by her enemies to find her. There were ten foreigners and three local citizens who were arrested but she was only most familiar with one. Mr. Dioko was the only one who showed up often in the factory and the one who gave out scholarship programs. Perhaps because the original and legal part of the business was really his.


    Later, while waiting for him at the dining table where she got absorbed in her thoughts, Hayri came in with frustrated looks. He sat down silently across Allie while she was fighting to calm herself down. Watching him closely, she could see that he was trying to compose himself but found it hard to do.


    With this, she stood up and gave him a glass of water. Since she had already fallen and entangled within the enemy''s lair, the only thing she could do was wait until she would be fully exposed. She was already too tired of running away. Come what may!


    Hayri looked up and gave her a faint smile. "Thank you, Missy! "


    "You''re welcome. "


    After drinking the whole content, he put down the glass and glanced up at her. He must have thought of something as his expression turned into a frown.


    "By the way, may I know your real name? Since we will be living together starting today, we may as well start to introduce ourselves. "


    He chuckled lightly at the realization that they still didn''t know each other up until this moment, even with their full names. He almost got used to calling her the same way his uncle did.


    Missy, because as he said, he was the only miss against the boring faces of their men.


    "My full name is Zheena Kiamco, from the Philippines. "


    What she said was true. Zheena Kiamko was the new name Black Logo created for her. This company made many unmarried couples free to roam anywhere in the countries of the Middle East with the fake papers such as marriage certificates it wonderfully produced. The papers really looked authentic inside out that until this moment, there was no complaints yet in regards to its authencity. Because of this company, Allie was able to escape for her life using a different identity.


    She looked straight into his eyes when she said this, not wanting to miss any clues in his pupillary response. He stared back at her and his eyes flickered when she mentioned her country''s name. She wasn''t sure but it looked like a happy expression instead. Happy, perhaps because, she came from the same country he was from. She didn''t want to hope but it was already a consolation on her part for not being caught yet.


    "My dad is a Turk and my mom was a Filipina that''s why I am being fondly called as Hayri here. We moved a lot but most of my education was taken in the Philippines."


    "Was? " Her brows creased with the past tense he was using.


    "She died when I was yet a kid but dad has always been a very good father so I didn''t feel her loss."


    Allie felt sorry about it but she felt sorrier for her own daughter whom she had to leave in order to run for her life. Her next plan was to take them with her once she would be established. Only to realize that her change of identity would cause her a great problem. Nevertheless, she would find a way.


    "I''m sorry for touching the subject. "


    Hayri smiled sadly but his eyes became sadder as he went on.


    "It''s like I also lost him the day he left me to serve his sentence. "


    Allie squinted her eyes to conceal her growing agitation. Serve his sentence?


    "What happened? " She asked, unable to hold back her curiousity.


    "He was one of those who were behind the powerful drug syndicate in Kamelyo. You must have heard about that. "


    Allie''s eyes widened in shock. Though she already speculated that Hayri must had an involvement of those people who were after of her life, but she hadn''t the least expected to hear something scarier than that.


    "There were thirteen of them if I remember correctly. " Allie said, stiffling her urge to ran away.


    "Yes, and by the way, I am Louise Dioko. "


    This statement was like a hand grenade, dropped right in front of her with an opened trigger. She ran away and left her daughter, her husband and her family only to fall at her captor''s lair. She even did not leave them any clue as to where she may be fleeing in order to be a hundred percent sure that she wouldn''t be traced.


    Such was the irony of life.What could be the meaning of this? Did she really meant to die?

 Chapter 65 - Do You Know Her Name?

    Days passed by so slowly that Allie diverted her loneliness through focusing on her work.She could not call home because of her fear that her calls were monitored. She made a new social media account and invited Ajie to accept her but he seemed to ignore it. Perhaps because of her new identity where she placed a photo of a superyacht for her profile cover.


    Since she was assigned as a personnel manager, she read books about leadership and management. She tried to cultivate qualities to create positive workplace relationship. While maintaining personal integrity, she addressed and emphatize any problem her staff faced and she valued their suggestions and opinions as her baseline in making decisions. She organized team building activities and conduct personality development trainings with the objective to develop unity and harmony in the workplace.


    Because of her sincerity and dedication to the work, she gained the favor and respect from all her staff. Such quality of a manager- to- staff - relationship would be beneficial to the plans of Allie to make a complete detour of what this company had been heading to these past years. She wanted a complete change and a breakthrough for this company despite the knowledge that the owner was her enemy....


    While maintaining her dedication to the work during office hours, she also created plans and goals for her own personal development on her free times. She determined to not rely on her salary alone. She must make her own money. Since she was surrounded by shipyards, she studied every equipments and materials that these company needed. From drilling apparatus to heavy machineries like cranes, from food supplies to gas and lubricants, from mooring ropes, lifting gears to anchor chains...


    Having understood all these, her plans came into actions and actions became productions. She found a new company which ventured into providing quality marine supplies and equipments. She applied as their agent and was accepted after informing them that she worked in a shipping line. Her line of work could be an advantage in the promotion of their new products and services.


    One lunchtime, after heating the food she cooked ahead in the morning, she happily called out Hayri to their dining table. Eversince she moved into their office home, she volunteered to do the cooking, meal planning and the trips to the grocery store. This was her only way of returning the favor for having been accomodated in a luxurious environment. She didn''t even need to spend except for her personal needs since her food was also free.


    "Zheena, you look happier today. "


    Hayri commented as he saw the excitement in her smiles and in the manner she talked today.


    "Yes, I am. " Her eyes glowed in happiness.


    "Can you share? " Hayri was infected with her excitement as well.


    "I got prospects for my online business. "


    "Really? What''s your business? "


    "Secret. It''s not for the rich people like you. "


    "You''re unfair! I have been telling you my secrets but you are hiding many things in return... "


    Allie choked upon hearing this. How long could she keep her secret as the spy? She seemed to be not minding it anymore since Hayri''s presence was not threatening at all.


    "Hayri, how''s your dad now? " She got a chance to change the topic when he talked about opening up.


    Hayri seemed startled by her question but he quickly recomposed himself.


    "He''s there in jail, hopeless. "


    "Is he very sad and angry? " She asked. Few questions a day could one day complete her self - investigations into this matter.


    "Surprisingly, no. He was even allowed to go anywhere inside the amenities if there are no guests around. "


    Allie''s eyes brightened. "Hayri, perhaps, this arrest served as a freedom for your dad. Perhaps, he didn''t want to do the business in the first place. As I see it, he was only forced into doing it. He perhaps have long wanted to get out from the maladies of the business but could not because of threats. That''s why he seems to be unaffected. "


    Hayri stared at her as he seemed to ponder on her opinion. She was right. His dad even sent him here with the hope that the stigma of his shame and downfall would be removed from him.


    "You''re right. "


    "Then how are you accepting this? "


    She said sadly, trying to tear his shield apart.


    "It''s difficult, Zheena. I''m angry, really angry. All of a sudden, I lost my direction. I lost the only parent and family I have in my home. " Hayri''s face turned red as tears were losing its grip from his eyes at the mention of home.


    "Hayri, just think of the good things this tragedy has brought. Painful events always turn out as blessings in disguise. "


    "I want to punish her with my own hands, Zheena. I want to strip her first of her feminine dignity before giving him a fatal shot her in the heart! "


    Allie concealed her rising nervousness by placing food into his plate. She also poured out a fresh fruit juice on his glass.


    "Who are you referring to? "She further asked to know how deep were they at this moment into their investigation.


    "The woman who sold out all the dark secrets of the company to the authority."


    "Do you know her name? " Allie asked still further but her heartbeats were already hammering into her eardrums.


    " We only know her name as Allyza. She is said to be one of those who were granted with the company''s scholarship program. . All the company records were burned so we couldn''t trace her information anymore. "


    "How about the school records? "


    "It''s not easy to do that. She is protected by the authority. Even her social media accounts were terminated. "


    "What''s the progress of your investigation? "


    Hayri was now drawn out by the listening ear and the interest Allie showed.


    "We only rely on actual interrogations with the people living in Kamelyo. We''re also giving out financial rewards for those who can give information as to where she is hiding. We also try to trace the current locations of those who fled from Kamelyo. On top of that, we have a lookout in all the sea and airports. "


    Allie suddenly turned emotional. She couldn''t understand herself. All of a sudden she wanted to cry. While she was afraid for her life, she was also torn in pity for Hayri.


    "Hayri, you''re still too young to destroy your heart with anger. You are still at the prime of your life where a bright future awaits for you.Enjoy life, enjoy your youth. Don''t waste it. Try to let go of that anger. "


    With this, Hayri broke into tears and Allie could not help herself from pulling him into a comforting hug.

 Chapter 66 - Im Worried For You

    Getting down from her car, Allie stood in front of a tall building where a big signage was plastered into the top floor.


    DREAM BUILDERS, INC.


    She held out the frame of her ID to the entrance guard which represented herself as the agent of ROUGH SEAS Marine Supplies and Equipments. Mesmerized by her unique Asian beauty, the guard didn''t really look at it. He gestured for her to get in and showed her the direction to the company''s purchasing officer.


    Once at the door, she breathed deeply before making three soft knocks. She must overcome her fear before cowardice hops in.


    The first step was all that she need to overcome. There''s always a first time and every journey starts with the first step. There''s no direct route, there''s definitely no shortcut!


    As if a direct answer to her prayer, a sweet smile of a beautiful lady greeted her eyes and all her fears and apprehensions disappeared. She was sitting behind her desk and in her front was a rectangular, marble paper holder with her name enscripted on it.


    Cherry Perez, Marketing Officer


    "Miss Kiamko? " The lady behind the desk whom she realized as indeed the Miss Cherry Perez on the official website of Dream Builders, Inc., stood up and extended her hand to welcome her.


    "Miss Perez..." Allie, likewise, gave her a warm smile as she shook a hand with her.


    "Follow me to the function room, Miss Kiamko. All the department heads will be your audience. They will be the one to decide if they should buy your products or not. Just be positive. God bless. "


    Soon, everyone gathered as soon as Allie was done in her preparations for the presentation. With more than twenty intimidating department heads around, Allie walked up confidently to the front. She first introduced herself before presenting her company''s profile. She then followed the presentation of her products without further ado.


    Her beauty and elegance, brilliance and eloquence, her thorough product knowledge, the product''s quality and the fair price and her air of sincerity ¡ª won the hearts of those around. She, herself, couldn''t even believe it. On her first day as a sales representative, she was amazingly able to close a great deal. Not only that, she was able to secure a five - year - contract!


    That was too overwhelming and before she left the function room, she dropped by again at Miss Cherry''s office to thank her. If not because of her, she wouldn''t be given the opportunity.


    "My pleasure, Miss Kyamko. There are lots of shipyards here. Just write my name as your reference and the company I am representing. "


    Allie felt so awed by her hospitality and at the warm and sincere smile which never left her face. She was so attractive, not just physically.There was really something in her which draw her emotionally. She felt she had met her somewhere before, only that she could not remember anymore.


    It was already past seven in the evening when she arrived at the premises of the shipyard. She did not expect that her conversations with the department heads would last that long. To her amazement, she saw Hayri at the entrance with an angry look and she felt guilty. She only left him a post - it note by his door to tell him that she would be out for a while.


    When she slowly pulled over to the direction of the parking lot which was on a big space next to their building, Hayri stopped her. She hurriedly opened the window to his side, thinking that something must have came up.


    "Hayri, what''s happening? " She asked worriedly as she looked at his dim expression.


    "Leave the car here. I''ll have the guard park it for you. "


    She hurriedly turned off the engine, picked up her laptop and slid on her bag to her shoulders. Hayri was already standing by the door of her car when she straightened up. To Allie''s bewilderment, he did not say a word but his glares were blazing like a fire. He picked the laptop from her hand and placed a rough arm around her shoulders, dragging her faster towards the elevator.


    His strange behavior and his frightening look stirred up her paranoia and she began suspecting that something was really wrong.


    Was she already caught? Was she going to die tonight? Did Hayri and his men find out about her? Were his men now able to send him a photo of her?


    What would she do now? Would she run fast and escape while there was still a chance? Her thoughts ran wildly and before she knew it, they were already inside her room.


    "Where have you been? "


    Allie stared at him in confusion, her frightening imaginations made her unable to process his question. Though Hayri was younger than her but his tall and lean built made him look much older.


    "Where have you been, I''m asking? "


    Still, Allie was not in herself as her thoughts were still on the frightening scenarios her mind created.


    "Zheena, did you ever think that you are scaring me to death? "


    "Huh? " She was already trembling in fear and Hayri noticed it.


    "Why are you trembling? Did I do something terrifying at you? "


    Seeing her like that, his expression suddenly softened. Without waiting for an answer, Hayri pulled her to his chest and hugged her tightly.


    "Zheena, I''m just worrying for you. I just don''t want that incident to happen again. " Hayri was referring to the incident where she was almost raped.


    "Next time, tell me wherever you want to go. I''ll drive for you. I''ll wait by the parking lot. I won''t disturb you. Just don''t make me worried like this again. " Hayri was already babbling like an electronic machine.


    Still in shock and relief that she wasn''t going to die, Allie''s mind just automatically shut up. She wanted to speak but she couldn''t find the words. For who knew how long, her quivering finally subsided.


    "I don''t want to die, Hayri. "


    "Who said you''re going to die? That incident had indeed traumatized you. From now on, I''m not allowing you to go out alone anymore. "


    Allie smiled inwardly. If this man only knew that he was the greatest source of her trauma, of her anxiety..


    "I''m sorry, I''m so late, Hayri. I''ll prepare our dinner now. "


    However, Hayri was quicker than her.


    "Freshen yourself up. We''ll go out for dinner. "

 Chapter 67 - Help Me

    Hayri took her to the nearest seafront restaurant. Though all throughout their time in the shipyard they were facing the sea, inhaling its crisp and salty breeze, the ambiance of the restaurant was totally different. There were trees by the shoreline, the sand was pristine - white and the moon could be seen clearly as it sailed through the grey horizon.


    Classic love songs was played on the background and the romantic atmosphere brought back the sweet memories Allie had with Ajie. What could he be doing now? Could he be also in a dinner with Dr. Jane? These thoughts brought her so much pain again as her memories ran from the good times they had together, down to those photos and videos Andrew sent her.


    She felt the depth of her loneliness again, of being hurt by his betrayal and his lies, of being away in a foreign country, and of being away from her daughter. She would miss the great part of her growth and development, of her formative years where she should have been there to witness and guide her through it all. She would miss the time where she would learn to make her first step, the time she would first clap her hands in response to the nursery rhymes and the time she would learn the alphabet and its phonetics. These were just few of the many things she would miss and sacrifice for the sake of wanting to live. She could only hope that by the time she would be free, her daughter could understand and forgive her.


    With all these in her mind, she didn''t realize that she got lost in her thoughts again and tears slipped down from her eyes. Hayri just watched and waited until the waiter came in with their orders and interrupted her.


    "Eat first. " Hayri said as he placed some foods into her plate.


    Coming back to her senses, she smiled at him and apologized.


    "Thanks, Hayri, and I''m sorry. I just miss home. "


    Hayri smiled back. "I understand, I also miss home. Only that, I''ll never have a home again. "


    "What do you mean? " Allie grabbed the opportunity to dig into his story again.


    "I''m an only child, Zheena. And as I have told you, mom passed away when I was five years old. "


    "Now that dad is serving a life sentence, how can I have a home again? "


    Allie understood his pain very well. Because of this, she didn''t know how to comfort him. How could she ease his pain away when she was the one causing it?


    "Hayri, If only I could share your pain...But I hope that you will start seeing the good side of it. It''s maybe painful and unacceptable as of the moment but this is the only way to set you free. "


    Hayri looked up and nailed his gaze on her. "And what do you mean? "


    "Hayri, try to see the bigger picture. How many lives are wasted because of drugs? How many lives are broken? How many wives and children are suffering because of domestic violence? How many children are destroying their future even before their dreams are made?"


    "Hayri, these should be stopped. Somebody should be a hero to stop all these. What good is there in a world full of chaos and violence? "


    "Take this as a challenge to yourself. Continue building the fame and success your dad has established. Instead of destroying your future with hatred and anger, do the other better way around. Make him proud of you. "


    Hayri smiled sardonically. "It''s not as easy as you say it, Zheena. "


    "I know but start making a step one at a time until you will make it. "


    "Help me, then... " He reluctantly conceded but he knew Allie was right.


    "Let''s start tonight. "


    ___


    At about twelve midnight later, Allie went inside Hayri''s room. They both agreed to set their alarm clock at this time every night and every five in the morning. Hayri was fighting off his drowsiness but he sat up anyway. Allie picked up his phone then clicked on a certain meditational video on You Tube . With an ear set ready, she gave out an instruction before they played the video together.


    The soothing and relaxing piano instrumentals was totally a different music Hayri was being used to. It was so lonely like the sea in the midst of the dark night. It pierced deeply into his heart that all of a sudden, its loneliness crept into his being. He thought about his father and all those happy times they shared together. He thought about the pain when he saw him cuffed and brought to the prison cell. He heard again his advises to take a different path and stay away from the hell he was plunged in. He recalled him saying to refrain from anger and revenge but create an honorable life instead...


    He did not know that while he closed his eyes with these thoughts playing on, his tears rushed down without restraints. And in the next moment, he was already sobbing his heart out and Allie could not again help herself but pull him into a comforting hug.


    ___


    When their phones alarmed again at five in the morning, Allie went inside Hayri''s room again. She chose another set of meditational music.


    "Hayri, this time, picture out in your mind the lives of the children and the youth enslaved with drugs..."


    Hayri nodded and minutes after, he saw them all in his mind. Together with the music which echoed into the walls of his heart, the horrible scenes of killing, violence and strife were played in his mind. And all of these wickedness happened because of drugs. Suddenly, just as the music had played the climax of its finale, it was also screaming in his heart the message of change.

 Chapter 68 - Slow Enough

    Hayri was no longer able to sleep after that 5 am session. Many things bothered him. There were moments where he was almost persuaded to stop his revenge and another moments where he was fired up again to crush his enemies in his hand.


    He knew that his desire to avenge for his father was illogical. He knew very well that what his father did was illegal. He also knew it was something which destroyed the lives and future of many children. Unfortunately, these evil deeds become right in the eyes of the children when done by people whom these innocent ones respected the most.


    Allie on the other hand was full of hope. No rock is too hard enough to stand against the constant dripping of water. While she planned for ways to soften Hayri''s heart, she entwined them with her own hard and consistent prayers.


    Their morning meditation went on though she reduced it to one session every four in the morning. Each time, she gave a different scenario for him to ponder over. And to her amazement, Hayri submitted willingly.


    "For this session, Hayri, think about how happy your dad will be to see you taking over his business. Think about what expansions you can do. Think about making a great name in the business industry more than your dad has ever done. " Allie instructed him one morning during one of their meditation sessions.


    Hayri nodded and then played the music on. He closed his eyes and got lost in his imaginations again as he was wrapped by the sensation of the mind - relaxing music. It was like a soft electrical current which spread in a beautiful way into all the cells of his body.


    He saw himself standing before a great crowd, applauded and praised for the breakthrough he had created. He saw his dad being so proud of him as he met him halfway on the stage. He saw their growing fleets of marine vessels and read his name on Forbes Magazine, a leading source for reliable business news and financial information.


    His thoughts then went back to his childhood days where he slept in his chest and rode in his shoulders. It also went back to the scenes when he praised him for getting high scores in his quizzes. So many scenes followed and played into his mind making him want, all of a sudden, to see him again.


    "Zheena, I want to see dad again. "


    He said tearfully as he pulled out his ear set away.


    Allie looked at him tenderly in great pity. She could see how much he struggled to accept the loss of the only person whom he knew as his only family. They may had been recognized by the world but no one knew the depth of their loneliness in the seclusion of their home. A downside in which their wealth could not afford to treat.


    "Go, Hayri. Talk to him again and see for yourself that he was not as unhappy as you think. His life in prison must be a lot better than the fear and tension he got from those behind the underworld. "


    Allie was able to say this because she knew Mr. Dioko very well. She remembered his many charitable works before and one of those were the scholarship programs he launched in different schools and universities.He was very generous to his employees and was so compassionate to those who had family members who were sick.


    "Go home with me. "


    Allie was dumbfounded.


    ___


    While locked up in her office later, the light on her personal phone flickered. She checked it up and saw right then that it was a notification that her ''friend request'' was finally accepted by "Adrian " on facebook.


    She sent him right away a ''thank you'' message.


    Adrian also replied. "The pleasure is mine. "


    Allie scanned his Facebook wall and saw photos of him and Chloe. Her baby was now as chubby as she was before and her features were really that of Ajie. She smiled as she was happy to see them both but her heart was again wrapped by so much grief and longing to hold them again.


    "Adrian, would you mind if I ask why you finally accepted me? And why it took you so long? " She held her breath as she sent the message, afraid that she wouldn''t get a reply.


    To her joy, a reply was immediately sent.


    "Because of your profile and cover photos. "


    "What''s in it? " She wondered.


    " My dream. "


    " I see. So your dreams revolve around marine crafts, am I right?"


    "Right. "


    "And why did it take you so long in accepting me? "


    "Because I''m a married man. "


    "Does it mean that you are already single now because you accepted me? "


    "No, it''s because I am hoping that one of those who would send me a request is my wife. "


    Allie was suddenly dumbstruck. Was her disguise too transparent? Was she being exposed?


    "It looks like your wife ran away. It makes me a little curious, hahaha! I just hope it isn''t really bad. "


    Ajie just replied a smiley. And she also did the same. That''s enough for now. She would make it slow, slow enough to catch him offguard. And slow enough to tame a wild.


    Just as when Allie returned her focus on her work, a soft knock made her glanced up towards the door. Hayri''s head popped up in the narrow opening.


    "May I come in? " He said, a wide smile appeared in his face.


    "Can I say no to the owner of Gretel Shipping Line? " She replied, as she also returned his smile.


    Hayri then opened the door widely and in his hand was a tray of food.


    "I made you a thick champorado with a non - dairy creamer. I know you already miss this. "


    Champorado is a sweet chocolate rice porridge in Philippine cuisine. It is usually made of glutinous rice and pure cocoa blocks. Sweetened with condensed milk or just sugar and whipped cream, it is well - loved by both children and adult.


    Allie was both surprised and touched. She really hoped that their daily meditation would make a thorough change in his heart.


    "That''s so sweet of you, Hayri. Thank you so much. " She exclaimed as she stood up and walked over to her coffee table.


    "You''re welcome, Zheena. I am determined to make you a little chubby. "


    "What? I already have abdominal fats! " She said as she ran her hand through her flat abdomen.


    "Don''t be riduculous. " He rolled his eyes as he poured a hot tea into her cup, it''s zesty and slightly bitter taste a contrast to the porridge''s sweetness.


    Allie was so amused at his childish expression that she giggled until she almost choked.

 Chapter 69 - Youre Not Allowed

    Having learned his lesson, Ajie decided to stay in Cebu and transferred back his study here. Because of prioritizing his dream, he didn''t paid much attention to Allie''s emotional needs. During those time where she was fearing for her life, he should have been there for her. He should have been her source of comfort and security. He should have been her shield. He should have been her strength when everything else was shaken to the core. But something else was more important to him and he had to pay the price. No matter how he regretted it, he could no longer bring back the time.


    Now, that Allie was gone, he could no longer allow any other tragedy to break him apart. He could no longer allow an incident that would also separate him from his daughter. He already lost his wife and would he also dare to lose his daughter? He moved back to his apartment but during the night, he would spend it in Beautiful Haven.


    Dr. Jane did not also go back to Japan when Ajie decided to stay. She continued her medicine proper at the same university with Ajie while running Beautiful Haven at the same time. To further protect and maintain the confidentiality of Chloe and Ajie''s in - laws, she either picked Ajie up everyday inside the campus or let him use her other cars. She intentionally left two cars in the university so that Ajie could use a different car everyday in going to her place. His chances of being followed in the university''s premises by the men of Louise Dioko were lesser because Jane had a special parking privilege at the basement of the administrator''s building. Her dad donated that building a year ago for the board of directors and administrator''s.


    Days passed by and Chloe was now taking her first steps by holding on the edge of the playpen. At eight months old, she could already read the alphabet and by eleven months, she could already memorize the different types of music instruments and transportation. She could now giggle loudly at something funny and could already communicate using few words. She showed interest in singing and Ajie could not contain his joy about it. Every night he sang with her and every night he also ended up crying in the solitude of their bedroom. If only Allie had not run away, she could have witnessed all these milestones their daughter underwent.


    One midnight as he was burning his candle to study, a message notification popped out. It was from a certain Zheena he had accepted some time ago. The superyacht as her cover profile attracted him.


    "Hi, Adrian! I feel bored. Can we please chat? "


    Being also bored and lonely for these past few months, he felt a need to talk to someone other than Dr. Jane.


    "Sure. "


    "How''s baby Chloe? "


    Ajie felt alarmed. Could she be one of Louise''s men? "How do you know about her? "


    "You posted it in your wall! "


    Ajie slumped back to his seat and sighed in relief. He then took photos of Chloe in the bed and sent it to her.


    "She''s soooo cute, Adrian! Can you send me some videos of her next time? "


    "You seem to love children. " Ajie commented.


    "Very much. "


    Ajie then proudly told her all the developmental milestones of Chloe and how she made him look forward to coming home everyday.


    "How''s the mom now, Adrian?"


    Ajie only sent a crying emoticon.


    " How are you now? "


    "Missing her badly. "


    "Hold on, Adrian. She must have deep reasons why she ran away. "


    Allie cried hard when she read this. She forgot that it was already time for Hayri''s meditation. She hurriedly stood up but Hayri was already by the doorway.


    "What happened? Why are you crying? " Hayri said worriedly as he wiped a finger in her eyes.


    "Just missing home again. " She lied as she allowed herself to be lead by Hayri into his room.


    "Then let''s go home together. Zheena, you owe me something. "


    Allie looked up to him in a puzzled look. "What? "


    "You have not told me anything about yourself except your name and country. "


    She smiled inwardly. If only he knew who she was!


    " Will tell you some other time. "


    __


    After their meditation, Allie hurried to prepare their breakfast and lunch which she would just heat later. Hayri would leave by seven for his business subjects while she would be in her office. He would then go home by lunch and they would go to the university together afterwards.


    "Hayri, can we go to the bookstore after the class? " Allie whispered into his ear as her mind wandered away during one of their boring subjects.


    "Anything you wish. "


    "Thank you. "


    Hayri replied her with just a smile but he unconsciously wrapped his arm around her shoulders. Oblivious to them was the fact that their professor was watching them.


    "Miss Kyamko and Mr. Dioko, strictly no PDA during class hours. "


    They looked at each other and laughed silently. Public display of affection just sounded so funny! Allie got more amused as she thought deeper about this. She was used to Hayri''s sweetness but for her, he was just like a younger brother. Not to mention that she was three years older than him. She took care of him, his clothes, his school uniforms and his personal things. She saw to it that his food appealed to his taste though Hayri never complained even once. She reminded him of his nutritional supplements as well as his water intake. She helped him with his assignments in his business subjects.


    She did all these, all just as big sister for him. She even almost forgot that Hayri was someone to be feared of and someone after of her life.


    Allie wrote in a paper and let him read it.


    "Tell the professor that I am your big sister from a different mother. "


    Hayri replied. "You will be destroying dad''s image. "


    "Then tell him that I''m your cousin. "


    She chuckled silently.


    "I will tell him who you are according to how I feel. " Hayri argued but remained lookin down.


    "A nanny? My goodness! " She looked horrified, her eyes rolling.


    "My sweetheart. " She froze for a while but was quick to ignore it.


    "Don''t dare to make a joke like that. They will believe. ".


    " I love you, Zheena. "


    Allie looked up and she fidgetted at those tender eyes which met hers. She hurriedly looked down and wrote again.


    "You''re not allowed. "

 Chapter 70 - His Birthday Wish

    Hayri must had understood Allie''s reaction since he no longer brought it up. They went to the bookstore right after the class. He just followed Allie as she went to the inspirational section.


    "Hayri, this kind of books helped me in the past when I was so down. I am even reading one these days to help me in my.... personal struggles. "She smiled, trying to hide her sadness which suddenly surfaced as she was reminded of the reason why she was there .


    She picked up one and opened it.


    "This daily devotional is a one- year- commitment challenge to change your life. " She glanced up awkwardly while Hayri just nodded.


    "We both have emotional struggles to overcome. Can we get one and go through this together? "


    "As long as I''ll be doing it with you. "


    Hayri gazed at her lovingly, instead of the book she was holding.


    "Hayri, I really want to help you to become someone you deserved to be. I want you to stay away from the ruins of wasting your life in anger and hatred. With or without me, please do this for your own good. "


    She felt so frustrated at the thought that Hayri was only cooperating because ...he loved her? That another fact sent goosebumps into her body.


    "I need you, Zheena. I don''t want to go through this alone. " His eyes were begging and it drew out a sense of pity from her heart.


    She sighed loudly and Hayri got amused. He picked up the book from her hand and clawed his arm over her shoulders as he gently pulled her towards the counter.


    Their trip towards home was filled with silence except for the soft music in the background. Allie pretended to read the book to ease up the awkwardness between her and Hayri.


    Minutes later, they were already inside their office home. He opened her room for her and held it up as she went inside.


    "Zheena, we''ll go out for dinner in thirty minutes. " He closed the door right away, leaving no chance for Allie to refuse.


    She threw herself down into the bed in frustration. Dinner would only give another moment for Hayri to express his feelings.This would be another frustration for him in the future and as much as possible, he must stay away from this while it was still early. She didn''t want him to undergo another pain of losing someone important again.


    Hayri took her later to Pierre Loti, one of Istanbul''s most vibrant tea gardens. Tea garden is an integral part of the Turkish''s social lives. Though informal and the cost is high, it demonstrate their most enjoyable outdoor pleasures.


    Pierre Loti is known both as a popular tea garden and as the dwelling place of the French novelist by the same name. Close to it''s location above the panoramic view of the famous Golden Horns of Istanbul, is Ey¨¹p Sultan Mosque. It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Turkey, where a companion of the Prophet Muhammad is thought to have been buried after the unsuccessful Arab siege of Constantinople in the 7th century.


    Pierre Loti, on the other hand, is most famous for his vividly descriptive writing epitomized in Ayizade, a pseudo-biographical novel featuring the French naval officer''s love affair with a Circassian harem girl while stationed in Istanbul.


    Nowadays, Pierre Loti is in itself a destination, a beautiful tea garden which offered the most spectacular historic and nature view on top of a hill studded by cypress trees.


    Amazed by the magnificent beauty of the place, Allie got lost in her reverie as they waited for their order.


    She wondered how wonderful it would feel to be with Ajie in this place. But each time she thought much about him, it would always end up in her imagination of him and Cherry in that bed. Nothing was more crushing than the thought of him indulging in a sexual pleasure with someone else. How could he say he loved her when there someone else in his bed and in his heart?


    "Here''s your order, sir! Have a wonderful time. " Allie was brought back to reality when the waiter came up with their crystal cups of rose hip tea and some other food.


    "Can I borrow your time, Zheena? "


    Allie chuckled out at his statement.


    "Of course, who else is with me other than you? "


    "But your mind is too faraway! "He looked at her with a sulking expression.


    "I''m sorry, Hayri. I am a nature lover and such beautiful places like this, pull me always as if I am in a trance."


    "Next time, I will bring you to a place where you can see nothing else but me. "


    Zheeena burst up in laughter and her beautiful demeanor instantly erased the gloom inside his heart.


    "I''m really sorry, Hayri. This won''t happen again "


    Hayri looked down and his brows creased, as if he was debating within himself.


    "What is it, Hayri? " She put down her cup after taking a sip and reached one hand to lift up his chin.


    "I''m turning 18 tonight. "


    Allie stared at him in disbelief and regret why she didn''t care to know more about him, even with just the very basic ones like his birthday. She stood up and hugged him tightly, like a big sister to a sulking little brother.


    "Happy birthday, Hayri. Why didn''t you tell me ahead? "


    "What would be the difference? "He asked, his face was still a bit gloomy.


    "I could have bought a cake for you to make a wish! " She said with bright glows in her eyes.


    "I''ve said my wish already. " He smiled and fixed a gaze at her for a long while without blinking.


    "Really? So, I can''t let you make a wish anymore? "


    "Just ask me what is it. " He chuckled while giving her a teasing look.


    "What? "


    "I wish that...that you will also learn to love me. "


    Allie retreated into her seat as she felt a headache coming on.


    "Hayri.." She softly said as she reached out for his hand.


    "I don''t want to hurt you in the end. You can''t love me. You don''t know who I am. While it is still early, stop this. " She explained, looking at him with begging eyes.


    "I don''t care who you are. All I know is I love you and I need you in my life. And that''s what matters most."

 Chapter 71 - Make Me A Part of You

    Early the next morning, Hayri woke up without the alarm clock. His body clock was already set to waking up at four in the morning. Thinking that Allie was not awakened by the sound of its alarm, he slowly got inside her room. To his surprise, he saw her with his naked eyes, sobbing while kneeling down by her bed. Though her voice was stiffled and low but it spoke of an immense magnitude of bitterness and pain. It seemed to dig deeply into his heart that he stepped back silently into the living room.


    Why? Just what had she gone through? What were the burdens she herself was carrying? Why did she say that reading an inspirational book helped her a lot in those times of her life where she felt so down? While these thoughts mingled with the quivers of her cries, he felt guilty. While she was all out in helping him move out from the pit of loneliness, grief and anger, she herself was all alone in lifting herself out.


    After about thirty minutes, she stood up and turned her lights on. When she walked towards the living room, she saw him sitting down on the couch. He looked straight into her eyes to silently confront her but she smiled brightly, instead. This reaction hurt him. She was so vibrant and alive in front of him. How could she lie towards him and herself? How could she afford to pretend a happy facade when those sobbing he witnessed a while ago, told him of of her inner struggles?


    "Zheena, you''re so unfair. "


    Allie was startled by this straightforward confrontation."What do you mean? "


    "Why did you keep so many things to yourself all this time that you are helping me. "


    "I don''t understand. " She replied as her smile slowly faded away.


    "I saw you cried a while ago. "


    To his surprise, Allie''s grin widened.


    "If not for those times I spend alone with God, telling Him all of my grief, of my struggles and of my fear, I wouldn''t have been able to survive until now. "


    " I''ve been through a lot, Hayri, though I can''t say that my battles are tougher than yours. "


    Hayri reached out for her hands and squeezed it. " Then tell me. "


    "Heal faster so that you would be tough enough to hold someone else''s burden. "


    "You''re not someone else to me. "


    He reminded her, feeling a little hurt.


    "Thanks, Hayri. I just hope you would still be able to say that in the future."


    Hayri was about to argue but she placed a hand against his mouth to stop him. Hayri got the chance to hold her hand which covered his mouth. He then gently pulled it to his lips and kissed it.


    "Make me a part of you, Zheena. "His voice was soft but filled with much sincerity.


    Trying hard to ignore his beckering, she tapped his nose with a finger.


    "Psst. It''s time to read your book. "


    "Didn''t you say we''ll read it together?"


    "I have changed my mind. You need to develop a habit of spending moments alone with God by yourself. Its about you and him after all. "


    "If you say that this book can change my life then I will faithfully read this."


    Allie laughed softly. How could this killing mastermind be so submissive to her?


    "The book, our meditation moments are just tools to help us but only God can change our hearts. "


    A change of heart was indeed what he need. His heart which was blazing with anger and hatred for those people who toppled down his father''s glory and people who broke down his home. How could his blood not boil up when the luxurious bed his dad had been enjoying from childhood to his later years was changed into a termite - infested planks?


    ___


    During their breakfast later, Hayri announced that he would go home to see his dad right after the class.


    "I will be back soon, Zheena. Now is the first time that I am spending my birthday without him. I don''t want him to feel bad. "


    " It''s so thoughtful of you, Hayri. You''re right. He will be very happy about it. "


    "Go with me then. "


    "Next time, Hayri. Promise. "


    ___


    Hayri and Allie went to school later in separate cars since Hayri was supposed to go directly to the airport after the last subject. They went out of the university together and turned in separate direction once they were in the highway.


    Allie, on the other hand, got the chance to see the marketing officer of Leanders, Inc., another shipyard in Istanbul. She already informed him ahead of her arrival right after her class. No longer as anxious as during her first presentation in Dream Builders, Inc., she walked with confidence towards his office.


    "Miss Kiamco, right? " The marketing officer stood up right away the moment she stepped inside his office.


    "Yes, sir. " She smiled graciously, laying down the positive points for his first impression.


    "So, I am also Richard Go, the company''s marketing officer for more than fifteen years. " He said while reaching out to clasp his hand with hers.


    After her presentation later in the conference room, one of the department heads stood up to raise a question.


    "Miss Kiamko, can you name some companies you are currently affiliated with? "


    "I am just new to this company and in fact, this is still my second presentation. My first is with Dream Builders, Inc. "


    "So how it is going so far? "


    "Very well, sir. " She replied concisely and to her relief, he did not push deeper on the topic.


    "Alright, Miss Kiamko. We will give you our feedback through Mr. Go. "


    While in the office of Mr. Go later for more detailed explanation of some products as well as the terms and conditions should they decide to settle and agreement with her, Mr. Go''s desk phone rang. He gestured to excuse himself for a while, as he would be answering the call. Allie saw him nodded and smiled while he fixed his eyes on her.


    Few minutes after, the door opened and her eyes bulged out in surprise to see the man coming in.


    "Mr. Dioko, it''s such a pleasure to see you here. "

 Chapter 72 - I Stand On My Word

    Hayri gave Allie a quick glance before he turned to the marketing officer.. The latter hurriedly stood up and extended a hand to Hayri.


    "Mr. Dioko, it''s an honor to see you here. Actually, we''re already finishing up and we could communicate with the rest through emails. "


    "Good to hear that since we will already be late for our appointment."


    Hayri glanced up at her again with an unreadable expression.


    "Let''s go. " Picking up her laptop, Hayri held out his hand to help her stand up. And as soon as she stood up, he encircled an arm around her waist and lead her towards the door.


    "Mr. Go, thank you so much. " She said as she looked over her shoulders, regretting the fact that she was not able to formally close her presentation with him.


    She glanced up at him and he also returned her gaze. He did not say a word but his eyes were already throwing daggers towards her. He was only 18, too way younger than herself but his height and appearance denied it. The way he talked and acted was far more mature than his current age. She tried to break free from his arm around her waist, fidgetting at his possesiveness. He removed his arm as he sense her discomfort but placed it over her shoulders instead.


    Once in the car, Allie couldn''t wait for another second anymore to vent out her curiousity and frustration.


    "Hayri, I thought you''re going home. "


    "You''re so happy about it, right? Because you will have the chance to meet any other men you like. "


    Allie''s blood rushed up instantly towards her temples in anger. What right did he has to stop her?


    "Hayri, I want to make this clear to you. There is nothing between us except for a special kind of friendship. You have no right to stop me if you think I''m meeting up with ''any other men'' as you put it. But they are not just ''any other men'', they are important people for my side business. "


    Hayri''s face was already flushing in indescribable emotion as he turned the engine on but he did not say a word. His brows furrowed on the ''special kind of friendship" she mentioned.


    "Hayri, I should not rely on salary alone. I need to do a side business because I have my own dreams."


    When he still did not reply, she went on. "I am an agent of Rough Seas Marine Supplies and Equipments so after office hours, I''m negotiating with these marketing officers of all other shipping companies within our place."


    Hayri just listened, but his expression was scaring her. He seemed to be fighting inwardly to quell down his rising anger.


    "Hayri, if you''re not speaking up, see you at home. " Without waiting for a reply, she hurriedly slid out from the car.


    However, Hayri was already standing by the side of her car when she turned around.


    "I''ll have someone pick this up. "He said sternly, stepping sideward to block the door of the car.


    "No need to bother someone else for this. You can follow me. "


    "No, I want you to go home with me."He walked towards her and reached out for her hand, pulling her back towards his car.


    The trip back home was silent but Hayri kept on stealing side glances at her. Though she wore a business attire, but his blood boiled up to see her grey pencil skirt rising above her knee, displaying her long, shapely legs. He hated to think that some other men may had feasted their eyes on her.


    "Wear pants next time. " He commented without looking at her, to Allie''s amusement.


    Instead of going home directly, he took another direction and later pulled out in front of a tea garden. Once seated on an elegant four - seater table overlooking a splendid sea view, he did not sit across her but beside her.


    "Zheen.." He finally broke the silence as he reached out his left hand and held hers. "I''m sorry. "


    Allie sighed as she glanced up at him. "Why didn''t you go home? "


    Hayri smiled faintly. "My mind is on you. I''m afraid you''ll be sleeping alone in the house. "


    "I''m not a child anymore, Hayri. There are guards, right?" She replied, wanting to pull out her hand from his.


    "Zheen, am I too difficult to love?" He said as he held her even tighter.


    "I love you, Hayri. As a big sister and friend. "


    There was pain in his expression, exactly the kind of pain everytime he talked about his father. It melted her heart in pity. How could she tell him that she was already married and commited to someone else? She was afraid of Ajie''s safety. Eventhough Hayri was totally a different person than the tyrant mastermind of the torturing of her neighbors and relatives, she couldn''t tell him about Ajie.


    "That''s not exactly what I want, you know that. I want to hold you in my arms, kiss you and hug you as I sleep..." A pulse of shivers run up through Allie''s spine as she heard him say it.


    "Hayri, you''re too fast. I need time. "


    His eyes lit up as the dawn begin to light in him. "Then, I''ll patiently wait. "


    "To patiently wait, Hayri, means no demand. " She challenged him since he couldn''t possibly wait until forever.


    "Promise. " Allie laughed and pinched his nose.


    The waiter arrived with their cups of tea and some side snacks. Distracted from their topic, Hayri brought out Allie''s business this time.


    "Why don''t you introduce your products to our company? "


    "It''s unethical, Hayri. I''m even ashamed that you found it out. I''m doing it as a secret because it''s a conflict of interest but you sneaked on me. "


    "Do it and I''ll back you up. I will also recommend it to all our branches. "


    "Put your hands out of this. Wait until I can build my own company of marine supplies before you''ll spread it out. My goal as of now is to close a contract with all the shipping companies within the country before I will start to introduce my own products. Rough Seas is just my channel to build up my name. "


    Hayri shook up his head in admiration. "What a brilliant mind you have. "


    "The blood of a businessman runs in your vein, Hayri. I want to see you taking over the whole shipping line your dad has established. And as for the shipyard, I want you to separate it from the main company of Gretel Shipping Lines because I want us to expand it from a ship repair yard to a ship building arena. "


    "So you promise to stay with me. "


    "I stand on my word, Hayri, until my promise to this company will be fulfilled. I want to be the builder and designer of the world''s greatest and most beautiful superyacht someday under your company. "


    "Your determination and your drive to get hold of your dreams make me love you more. " He said with full admiration in his eyes, making him pull out her head and kiss it.


    Allie got startled as she was caught offguard. "Stop it, Hayri. "


    "It''s your choice not to love me, Miss Kiamko but you can''t stop me. "


    Allie sighed. How long could she resist him?

 Chapter 73 - The Moments You Are Here With Me

    Through the help and influence of Hayri, Allie was able to secure long term contracts with all the shipyard companies of the country. However, another problem arose. She could no longer manage it by herself since her priority was still with Gretel Shipping Lines. She did not expect that her supposed side business of being a sales agent of marine supplies became her source of skyrocketing income.


    While sitting down on her coffee table by the floor-to-ceiling glass window of her bedroom, she came up with the plan of hiring someone to help her run her business. She didn''t want to mar her loyalty with Gretel Shipping Lines because this was the company which gave her those great opportunities. She was the type of person who was willing to die for anyone she owed a debt of gratitude.


    As she ran her mouse on her financial report, her face glowed up when the name of the first company which trusted her, caught her eyes.


    Cherry Perez


    Marketing Officer


    DREAM BUILDERS, INC..


    Tuzla, Istanbul


    She hurriedly sent her a message through email and they agreed to meet on a tea garden closer to Cherry''s home. It was still six in the evening and an hour or two of talking to Cherry, perhaps, wouldn''t be a problem to Hayri. She changed into a tight -fitting denim jeans and sleeveless top. Looking at herself into a full -length mirror, she realized she was too plain. She then applied a what she considered as a light makeup but how those light touches she painted herself accentuated her beauty, surprised even herself. Highly satisfied with her appearance, she smiled to herself then grabbed a jacket before knocking at Hayri''s room.


    "Come in, my love. "


    Hayri was browsing on his PC when Allie walked in. When he glanced up, he saw that she was already fully dressed up with her unusually high - heeled wedges. What surprised him even more was the sophisticated appearance she made herself that night. He was used to her plain, natural beauty where she didn''t even care to apply a light lip shade during working hours.


    He stared at her before speaking up but Allie spoke up first.


    "Hayri, I will be seeing Miss Cherry in Red Apple Tea Garden. I will prepare your dinner before I''ll go. " Mesmerized by her beauty, Hayri was tounge -tied.


    As she turned her back and about to close the door, Hayri recomposed himself and caught her up. He pinned her to the door and hovered over her.


    "Let me take you there. " He said, his eyes burning into her wide and gentle eyes.


    "But I don''t want to keep you waiting. I don''t also want to get distracted just because you are there. "


    "I will not disturb you. I will be working on my assignments on a separate table. "


    "Hayri..." She sighed in surrender to his demand and looked down but before she knew it, Hayri bent over and kissed her hungrily on the lips.


    Startled and caught offguard, she froze for a moment and was not able to react. When finally Hayri released her, a tear escaped from her eyes. Hayri saw it and was instantly gripped with guilt. He hurriedly pulled her into his embrace and apologized.


    "I''m sorry, Zheen. You know that I love you and watching you like that is such a temptation. "


    Allie''s tears turned into a sob. She cried, not because she hated Hayri, but because she was guilty. All throughout the special treatments that Hayri gave her, no heart would be hard enough to resist it.


    "You really hate me that much. "


    Hayri said sorrowfully and his eyes instantly turned red.


    "I don''t hate you, Hayri. No woman would ever hate the way she is worshipped and placed into a pedestal. But I don''t want you to get hurt and frustrated in the end when the time will come that you will know who I am. " She partially confessed between her sobs.


    "And besides, I cannot give you my heart because I am already commited to someone else. "


    Hayri was caught dumbfounded with her figurative statement.Why did she say that? Was she his father''s mistress? He shuddered at the thought...


    "Tell me everything, Zheena. "


    "I will, Hayri, but not now. "


    To force her into the edge was never right at the moment. It would only make her place a rift between them. If she was one his father''s mistresses, he couldn''t care less. He had learned to love her more each day and that special affection was more than enough to cover up whatever flaws she may had. His dad''s involvement with young women was not a secret to him and he understood. And besides, his dad respected him to the point that he never showed them to him nor brought them under their roof behind his back.


    "No need to tell me who you are as long as you''re within my sight every minute of my life. "


    "As I said, I cannot promise that. "


    She tried to argue, not wanting to give him a false hope.


    "What is more important is the present, the moments that you are here with me. " The sting this statement gave her was more lethal than her own fear.


    ___


    Allie conceded to the demand of Hayri to take her to the place where she would be seeing Cherry. He opened the door for her but true to his words, he did not follow right away. But when Allie made orders, she included separate items for Hayri to be served at the table she reserved for him.


    She saw Cherry sitting down on a corner the moment she walked in to the cafe. She waved a hand to acknowledge her presence but she went directly to the counter instead to make her orders for the three of them.


    "Miss Kiamko..." Cherry smiled and extended a hand to shake up with her.


    "Miss Cherry, would you mind if I suggest that we call each other by our first names? "


    Cherry responded happily. "That would be better. "


    "Okay, then. " She said as she gestured for both of them to sit down.


    After having seated comfortably, Allie initiated the conversation.


    "Miss Cherry, how long have you been working at Dreams? "


    "Less than a year. "


    "Do you have side businesses? "


    "None. "


    "Che, I''m inviting you because I have a favor to ask. I can no longer manage my responsibilities to my clients because I am also working and studying at the same time. If you can give me some of your free times, I would be very happy if you will help me manage my orders. "


    To Allie''s amazement, Cherry''s eyes lit up. "That is such a good news because I have already tendered my resignation. "


    "Really? Why? " Allie regretted her questioning the moment she said it. She felt she was already intruding into her privacy.


    Cherry chuckled out slowly.


    " Honestly, I am avoiding someone. "


    Zheena was taken aback. It seemed she could relate the feelings.


    "Oh, I''m sorry to hear that.. "


    Cherry just shrugged her shoulders,instead, and laughed.


    "Zheena, when will I start? "

 Chapter 74 - Is She Your Wife?

    Through the management of Cherry, Allie was able to focus on her work and study. Cherry, on the other hand, was able to expand by herself even with less assistance from Allie. To have a better working environment, they decided to rent a place for their office. They had also hired few office personnel when the workload became more than what Cherry could handle.


    Just when their clients increased and their orders multiplied in heaps, a shocking news by the administration department of Rough Seas shook them. The company was having internal problems and it seemed too complicated that they would no longer be able to provide their orders. When asked how long would the problem be addressed, they were only replied with a saddening news that it looked like beyond redemption.


    Hayri noticed her troubled expression during their dinner. Her silence was unusual as she placed some foods into the table.


    "What is it, my love? You look sad. "


    He said as he was pouring a cream powder into her coffee.


    "Rough Seas sent us a letter that they are closing their company. "


    "Then? "


    "How about our orders? if we will get it from other companies, how could we be assured of its quality? "


    "That''s good news, my love."


    Allie raised a brow as she looked at him. The issue was causing her so much stress and it was so humiliating that he seemed to take it as a joke.


    Hayri read her reaction and he stood up and hugged her from the back.


    "Let''s buy the company. "


    Allie turned around and broke free from his embrace. "Where will I get the money? "


    " Through a bank loan. "


    Allie laughed sardonically. How could she be approved of such great amount of loan? They were not talking about few thousands but millions.


    "Our company will apply the loan in your behalf. "


    "But you are not the only one to decide on this. "


    "Trust me. I''ll find a way. " He said as he looked at her gently.


    "Thank you, Hayri. I''ll return this favor someday. "


    In a sudden momentum of joy for that unanticipated solution to her problem, she stood up and threw her arms around him. Hayri likewise took the chance to hug and kiss her forehead.


    ___


    Days passed by quickly and soon, Rough Seas Marine Supplies and Equipments was turned over in her name as the principal shareholder and Hayri as secondary. Through his influence, they were also able to find more investors. However, when the company was able to stand by itself, Hayri transferred all his share to Allie''s name so that she could have the full pride of establishing a company of her own.


    Through also Allie''s persistence and determination, the shipyard was independently separated from the main shipping line as Allie had proposed from the beginning. They had already started the laying out of the foundation of making it a vessel- building arena. Who would expect that through the inspiration Allie had on Hayri, he was able to complete his degree on business administration? Not only that, time flew faster than a wink of an eye that in few weeks, they would already be graduating from their degree of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering.


    After a year of showing her dedication and loyalty to the company, Cherry was able to expand to other countries. With this, Allie decided to give her a share in the company. Such dedication and industry was a rare treasure and she only desired to reward it. If not for Cherry, Rough Seas could not expand mightily as her priority was still with Hayri''s company.


    One time, as the two women were having tea in the afternoon, Allie brought up a plan which surprised Cherry. Both of them had already adapted to the country''s tea - drinking culture, and like the rest of the people around, it had become a part of their daily lives. Whenever they wanted to meet prospects, discuss important topics or just hang out for leisure, they always ended up in tea gardens.


    Turkey is famous for their robust coffee and strong black tea as tea - drinking has been an integral part of their culture which steeped down from ancient times to hundreds of their generation. Tea is served from breakfast until bedtime and in every home, a tea pot is always brewing. In fact, Turkey is one of the top tea growers in the world.


    "Che, I have always been planning to expand in our own country. What do you think? "Allie said as she was leisurely sipping on her tea.


    Cherry glanced up and somewhat looked startled but she was quick to recompose herself.


    "It''s exciting but I''m actually nervous about it. "


    "Why? "


    "I ran away from home and for them, I am already dead. "


    Allie instantly chuckled out loudly.It was such a coincidence that they seemed to share a similar fate!


    "Can you tell me about it? " Allie asked as her eyes remained fixed at her.


    "Sure, when talking about it won''t hurt me anymore. " Cherry replied right away but her tears instantly gathered around the corners of her eyes.


    "I understand, Che. I also have my own story which I cannot tell as of now. "


    Cherry nodded and smiled but the topic seemed to open up the floodgates of her soul. Allie then stood up and hugged her. Brushing her tears away, Cherry forced herself to speak up.


    "Thank you, Zheen, for being a family to me in this foreign country. If not for you, I would have gone crazy with depression. "


    Allie''s heart sank. Whatever story Cherry and Hayri may had, she was sure that hers was equally as painful as theirs. Thankfully, she was stronger than them and this reality surprised herself.


    ----


    While lying prone on her bed that night, she browsed on the Facebook wall of Ajie. She smiled as she saw another post of him and their daughter. It was already almost five years when she left and her daily bread was seeing them through the photos and videos Ajie sent to her. She didn''t call them anymore because hearing them would only deepen her loneliness. Aside from that, she was also afraid that the men of Hayri or any of her enemies may had their own monitoring system of their incoming and outgoing calls. She didn''t exactly know who else were her enemies.It could be Mr. Lopez or Dr. Jane herself.


    "Adrian, can you please send me another video of my baby? "


    Ajie broke his reservations in talking to a stranger especially that Allie was a woman because she was clever enough to only talk about his daughter and not about himself. She was successfully able to hold back her curiousity about how he was, his dreams, his studies and her current status in his heart. Her only updates about him was the bits and pieces of information his tounge had slipped.


    "Adrian, I notice that Chloe does not speak up long sentences. Is there a problem with her speech? "


    Ajie''s eyes furrowed as he read her comment. "None, of course. It''s because the grannies are training her in a wrong way. They do baby talk. "


    "What did her teachers say about her speech delay?" Allie knew that Chloe was already sent to school as soon as she was two years old.


    "What? "


    "Yes, speech delay. "


    Ajie sounded worried when he replied. "I''ll talk to Jane about it. "


    Jane. The mention of her name instantly formed a lump in her throat.


    "Is she your wife? "


    "Not yet, but I''m considering about it."

 Chapter 75 - Ive Waited Long Enough

    The information came as a bolt of lightening which struck into her heart. From the very beginning, she was already feeling uncomfortable about Jane especially that Mr. Lopez himself, announced his own preference to have her wed to Ajie. It was aggravated by the fact that he also sent her to accompany him to Japan and let her go to the same university Ajie was enrolling in. What else could be expected when two individuals of the opposite sexes and of the same age level stay under one roof and go everywhere together? Dr. Jane was such an epitome of beauty and brilliance aside from being a sweet and a thoughtful woman. Who could be strong enough to resist her?


    The pain seemed to puncture into the festering wound inside her heart and tears immediately welled up in her eyes. However, she tried to hold back her emotion while Ajie started to open up.


    "How about your marriage to your wife? "


    "I have waited long enough. I am willing to wait if only she is showing some signs of coming back. But she has not. I am not her enemy. She can secretly reach me out if she wants to but she did not. I think I will accept the advice of Jane''s dad to file for a marriage annulment. "


    "What is your ground for annulment?"


    " Even if there is no existing ground to declare our marriage void, but, what I have in our situation is abandonment without justifiable cause for more than one year. "


    "Abandonment? Didn''t you say she has confidential reasons why she ran away? "


    " A spouse is deemed to have abandoned the other when he or she has left the conjugal dwelling without any intention of returning. "


    Allie was already breaking into a sob but despite her blurry eyes, she still managed to argue with him.


    "Adrian, I''m hurting for your wife. I believe she had deep reasons why she did it. Just wait a little more. Don''t you love her anymore? "


    "I love her, Zheen but she has neglected me. I only need a word from her and that will be my reason enough to wait . "


    " Is Jane your current girlfriend? Is she the reason why you can no longer wait for the return of your wife? " Allie may had asked him straightforwardly but her heart seemed to bleed profusely already.


    " I still honor our marriage, Zheen.I can''t be in a relationship while I am still bound to her. After the annulment, if still she doesn''t show up, I may consider remarrying. "


    "My question is, do you love her already? "


    "As a special friend, yes. "


    Just how he exactly defined a special friend? Did he mean a mutual understanding between them?


    "Are you dating with her always? "


    Allie was already sobbing loudly while she was typing the question.


    "Yes, everyday. "


    "Everyday? Then are you still proud enough to say that you can''t be in a relationship with another while you are still tied to your marriage? "


    It took a while for Ajie to reply. Perhaps, he was considering his answer before sending it.


    "Zheena, are you angry? "


    "I''m hurting for your wife Adrian. What if she wants to come back already but can''t because her life is endangered? "


    "Why can''t she send me a message? "


    How could she tell him that her reason was because she was afraid that Hayri''s men would one day force him to confess? Just as how her relatives and the people in Kamelyo were tortured just to extract an information from them. Of course, if they would find out that Ajie was her husband, he would also be subject for their investigation.


    "I believe she has deeper reasons behind. "


    "By the way, Zheen, for your peace of mind, I will answer your question about the frequency of our date. We go to school together everyday and I sleep at her house every night."


    "So you''re living together? "


    "Somewhat. "


    Allie could no longer take the pain. She was almost tempted to reveal herself to save their marriage. But the knowledge of them sleeping together and dating often, humiliated and hurt her. Their marriage certificate would just then be a formality because in reality, they were already living together as a couple.


    While she was all alone at night thinking about him, he was there making love with Jane. While she was feeling lonely and empty in her solitude, he was there enjoying the warmth of her presence. Why was life so cruel at her? Why couldn''t she have freedom when what she did in exposing the secrets of Kamelyo was for the good of many? Why wouldn''t she be allowed to enjoy the rights entitled to a wife? Why did she have to be separated from her family and from her child?


    She sobbed her heart out until past midnight that she was not able to wake up for their daily meditation. She just lost the energy. She just lost the courage to stay brave.


    ___


    It was already past five in the morning but Allie hadn''t come out yet from her room. He turned on the knob but it was locked from the inside.He tried to knock on her door and called out her name but she didn''t answer. Hayri was already worried. What could have happened to her? He knocked louder this time but still, there was no response.


    Hayri hurried to grab the duplicates of their keys in the kitchen wall. His heart was already hammering loudly in fear. Bad thoughts were already playing in his mind. Was she having a worst nightware that she wasn''t able to wake up? Was she having an apnea that she wasn''t able to breath again?


    Hayri almost stumbled in his haste when the door finally opened up . His imaginations of her were already horrifying. His eyes were so quick in scanning around the room, only to find her crouching on the floor. Her back was leaning on the bed while she curled up into a fetal position. Her eyes were bloodshot and her nose was as red as a ripe tomato.


    Hayri squatted immediately and pulled her into his arms without a word. Sensing warmth and sympathy, Allie broke into tears once more.

 Chapter 76 - Wait For Me

    Hayri placed her in his lap as he hugged her from behind. She was burning with fever and was shivering in the cold temperature inside her room. She seemed to not care about it or she was just to weak to even pull over a sheet to cover herself.


    Hayri''s heart sanked. They had been together for already five years and all that he saw in her was her vigor, determination, strength and courage. Little did he knew that behind all those facade, her struggles were far more than he could fathom. His love for her grew deeper as the days go by and to see her like that broke his heart.


    "Zheena, we have been together for already five years. It hurts me to realize that until now, you have not trusted me enough to tell me everything about you. "


    "I am here to listen, to give you my whole-hearted support."


    Allie looked up and smiled weakly.


    "Give me more time, Hayri. Let me fulfill my promise first to your company. "


    Hayri sighed. What else could he do than patiently wait? Remembering her fever, he hugged her tightly before lifting her back into her bed and tucked her up. He then bent down and kissed her forehead.


    "I''ll get your medicine. "


    Allie recalled their conversation with Ajie as she stared at her ceiling. She understood very well that Ajie had all the reason to execute his plan. While she has deep reasons herself, she couldn''t explain it to him. She must stop him! She should find a way.


    Grabbing her phone at the bedside table, she made another social media account. She then sent a message request using a pseudo name.


    "Ajie,


    I''m sorry I run away because I''m fearing for my own life. The enemy found out about me and I need to die in your eyes so that all of you will live peaceful lives. I''d rather suffer alone than allow you to be troubled by them.


    I cannot tell where I am because I am afraid that the day will come that they will force you to confess where I am. It''s better to know nothing about me.


    I wish that your love for me is great enough to be able to wait until I will come back.


    I just want you to know that I learned about all your lies. I went away with a heavy heart knowing that behind your promises, you have lied at me . I had even seen your sex videos. What humiliated me so much was the fact that you were so inspired to record it. You must have loved her so much because you cared so much about in saving it.


    But I also want you to know that I am willing to forgive and forget about it as long as you can wait for my return.


    Please hug and kiss our daughter for me. Tell also mama and papa not to worry.


    Loving you so much,


    Allie "


    Allie deactivated her account as soon as she successfully sent her message. She couldn''t wait for his reply. She was too afraid that he himself would tell her straightforwardly about his marriage plan to Jane. Thinking about it again, she buried her face into the pillow and wailed bitterly.


    Hayri came back with the anti -pyretics, pitcher of water and cups of tea. Seeing her like that again, angered him and shattered his heart again. There must be a deep reason of her heartache and he was determined to find out why.


    He placed the tray in the coffee table beside the window. He then moved the curtains back and the sun immediately shed its golden light across the room. Allie loved to see this morning view so he lifted her up into his arms and placed her on a seat by the table.


    "Here, take your medicine and warm your stomach. " He said as he put the tablet in her mouth. He then picked up the pitcher of water, poured it into a glass and handed it to her.


    "Thank you. "


    Hayri did not reply but went instead inside her bathroom. He came back in less than a minute with a wet and dry hand towels. He then began rubbing the wet towel into her forehead, neck and arms, patting it dry afterwards with the second towel. Seeing her messy hair, he picked up a hair brush in her dresser and fixed it clumsily into a ponytail. Seeing her freshened up a little, he sat beside her and pulled her head into his chest.


    "Whatever is it that hurts you, I won''t force you to open up now. But I want you to know that I am also hurting because after so many years, you could not bring yourself to confide in me. Nevertheless, I still love you with all my heart. "


    Allie was moved into tears once again, not for her pain but for a sense of pity towards Hayri. Just a little more time, her design for the world''s biggest and most beautiful superyacht was almost completed. Having supervised the men in their work plus the lessons she had learned, designing was not that difficult anymore.


    "Hayri, after our maiden voyage, I will tell you everything about me. I just hope that in that moment, you will still be able to tell me that you love me. " He did not reply but he lovingly draw her closer to him.


    Hayri''s speculation that she was his dad''s mistress did not worry him anymore. Perhaps, the real reason why his dad gave her a special treatment was because of that. Everyone had their own pasts and their own stories to tell. It was not his nor Allie''s fault that it was his dad who met her first. And perhaps, it was his dad who took her virginity. There was a pang of pain inside his heart when he thought about this but love knows no fault. He still loved her despite of who she was.


    ___


    Ajie saw the message request notification and he hurriedly opened it up. He smiled at first but then he frowned and got lost in his thoughts.

 Chapter 77 - To Honor Her

    After his college graduation, Mr. Lopez gave Ajie all his support and resources to work on his dream. He sent the best field experts from his biggest shipyard in Japan to help and guide Ajie in completing his project. In the shores of Kamelyo, the world''s biggest and most luxurious cruise ship was standing tall and proud. In few more months, it could now make its maiden voyage. While it was still in completion process, Ajie was already working on the specific details of other designs, all waiting for it''s proposed time frames.


    While standing on the site supervising the men at work, a car stopped behind Ajie. He turned to the sound of the stopping engine and smiled when he saw who came over. Jane stepped out with a wide grin followed by Mr. Lopez who came out from the other door. Ajie then stepped forward to meet them.


    "Mr. Lopez, it''s good to see you here. " He reached for Mr. Lopez hand and take it to his forehead.


    "Yes, dear. I''m getting excited everyday to see the final completion of your wonderful work. " Mr. Lopez exclaimed happily.


    Ajie then turn to Jane and placed both of his hands at the edge of her shoulders then bent forward to kiss her cheek.


    "I thought you have an important activity at school. " Ajie said as he looked into her eyes.


    Jane quickly replied with a smile. "Nothing is more important than to be with the two most wonderful men of my life. "


    "I''m so honored to be counted in." Ajie chuckled out softly as he glanced at Mr. Lopez.


    Mr. Lopez smiled back at them. "I''m so glad to see my little princess falling in love. "


    "Dad.."Jane pouted as she looked up at Mr. Lopez but gave out a soft laugh afterwards as she shifted her eyes towards Ajie.


    Sensing her discomfort, Ajie smiled at her and wrapped an arm around her shoulders as they walked towards the office.


    Once the three of them were seated on the couch inside the office, Mr. Lopez initiated a conversation.


    ''What will be the name of the


    vessel? " Mr. Lopez asked as he leaned his back comfortably in the backrest.


    Jane quickly answered in behalf of Ajie. " Dad, Ajie is going to name her after Allyza, in honor of sharing his dream back then. I mean, during those times when they dreamed together of how Ajie will become in the future. "


    Ajie suddenly felt uncomfortable. Uncomfortable because he knew that eversince, Mr. Lopez always had sought for ways to have them knitted together. Sending her to Japan and allowing him to stay in their house was his first attempt. A week would not pass if he wouldn''t set a dinner for the three of them and not show up afterwards. He also arranged out-of-town getaways during weekends where he would suddenly go home with an alibi, leaving the two of them alone.


    Jane''s innate sweetness and captivating Spanish - Filipina beauty was something a man would find hard to resist. Being good - natured, thoughtful and selfless were few of those amazing traits she also had. Not to mention her being a gifted child with an IQ of above 200 wherein the average for common people is only 100.


    At 18, she was one of those few persons in the world who got a doctoral degree of philosophy. And lately as she took a degree in medicine proper, she couldn''t almost stand the natural flow of class sessions. If not because of him, she would have not endured the boring hours of lectures and enroll instead again in an acceleration school where her unusually fast learning capacity would be catered. Due to the credited minor subjects in her previous course and summer classes, she was now on her last year of residency training. After this, she would be taking up a subspecialty training program for neurodevelopmental pediatrics.


    On the other hand, even with the sense of awkwardness, Ajie was glad that Jane spoke out what he could not. He didn''t want to offend Mr. Lopez though he also couldn''t give in to all of his wishes.


    "How about it, Adrian? Would you like to name her after Allyza? "


    "I would love to, Sir. "Ajie replied confidently.


    Mr. Lopez nodded with repressed disappointment but he did not dare to argue. It was her daughter who suggested it so be it.


    "Any news about her? "


    "None, sir. "Ajie lied. He himself was afraid to disclose any information about Allie.


    "The best method to let her come out is to file an annulment. If she doesn''t want to lose you, she would surely show up. "


    "And in that way, Louise would also probably stop hunting her. Or, you would already be free from his monitoring on your activities because by annuling your marriage, he will think that you are already giving up in finding her. "


    "Sir, does Louise know already that I am her husband? "


    "Most likely. I have tried to talk to that boy many times but I still hear some news that his men are still out there. "


    "Fortunately, he seems to slow down lately in tracking her up. I am even amazed on how he pushed up the plan in setting up a drug rehabilitation center inside the jail.Not only that, he also funded the expansion of the buildings to accomodate the prisoners comfortably. You know that the government is already facing an overcrowding problem in all the jails


    lately. "


    Ajie''s face lit up. "Would it affect the status of Mr. Dioko inside the jail? "


    "Greatly. From the last time I visited him, he was no longer kept securedly just like the other prisoners. He was free to roam around the premises without cuffs. "


    "Is that really possible?"


    "Sadly in our country, yes. "


    "I''m happy to know that. "


    "Yes because Dioko boy is not really the insinuator of that illegal thing. He was just forced into it due to some issues in the business where he was trapped. He once made a mistake in the past for seeking help from a wrong person. "


    "I''ve heard that you can no longer go out once you''re there. "


    "Exactly. The pressures and threat on him was making him crazy. That''s why, if you see him in jail, you will be surprised by his happy disposition. "


    "He perhaps gained freedom finally. "


    Mr. Dioko nodded thoughtfully. "That''s the word. "


    He also added. "There is a current plan that he would come out as a state witness as their is a need for someone who is co - accused to give direct evidences of the case. "

 Chapter 78 - The Promise

    Ajie went home later with Jane in Beautiful Haven. When Ajie and his family came to live with her, she had the upper floor of the building she was living got renovated. Though she later housed them separately in the renovated floor to maintain her privacy, the fact that they were living under one roof couldn''t be changed. However, due to her hectic schedules, she seldom saw them, especially Chloe. In those times where she went home earlier with Ajie, the child was either studying or asleep.


    "How''s Chloe?" She asked while Ajie''s eyes was focusing on the road.


    Ajie swept her a side glance and snapped, having remembered Allie''s observation.


    "Jane, there''s seemed to be a problem with Chloe. She doesn''t talk much and if she does, she can''t form longer sentences." He said with a worried look.


    "What? " Jane exclaimed with guilt in her reaction. This was her specialization and yet, she was not able to see it.


    "Yes. At first, I denied it, blaming it instead on the way my in -laws talk to her. They were baby talking to her eversince. "


    "Then? "


    "I talk to her teachers and they all said that Chloe is a silent child. "


    "What a shame! I''m sorry, Adrian. I should have noticed that long ago, knowing that she''s living under my roof. "


    "What else have you noticed? "Jane asked worriedly.


    "She doesn''t allow herself to be photographed so all her pictures and videos are all candid shots and records. "


    "What else? "


    "She doesn''t listen when called most of the times and she watch videos repeatedly. "


    Jane nodded. "Do you observe her positive sides? "


    Ajie paused and thought hard. "She memorized all the types of transportation at 11 months old as well as all the music instruments. She also mastered the alphabet and its phonetic sounds at ten months and learned to write at one year and a half. "


    Jane sighed in relief. "Perhaps her problem is related in speech but her intelligence is like mine. "


    "Can it be addressed? " He asked with deep gloom in his expression.


    Jane chuckled out softly to relieve his worries. "Of course. Bring her to my office tomorrow at ten in the morning. "


    "Thank you, Jane. "


    "Anything I can help you with is a pleasure. "


    Ajie pulled to a stop at the safe side of the road. He leaned his back on the backrest and placed his hands on his lap. He wanted to clear out what Mr. Lopez had said earlier that his princess was falling in love. He wanted to end it before it could even start.


    "Jane, I wonder how do I deserved your kindness and all the things you do for me. " He turned and gazed at her tenderly.


    "Don''t mention it. You also do great things for us. " She returned his gaze awkwardly as she replied.


    "You have already paid me so much for rescuing your father. "


    "It''s not only that. I just love everything that I do for you. " She answered as she turned away.


    "What and why? " Ajie pulled back her chin to make her look at him.


    "Dad is right, Adrian. "


    "Right about what? " His curiosity was killing him already.


    "Forget it. " She let out a feigned laughter and poked his nose with her finger.


    "What? "


    "I would gain nothing from it so its better to shut up. " She smirked sadly as she turned away again.


    "We''re not going home until you will speak up. " He threatened her as he held her shoulders this time, allowing him to look straight into her eyes.


    Jane looked down and after a long while, she finally spoke up.


    "I love you, Adrian. "


    Ajie gave out a long sigh. He felt he was entangled already by his gratitude towards them and here came another problem. Jane was such a lovable woman, a highly respectable person, only that his heart was not free.


    He held out her left hand and clasped it with his. "I''m sorry, Jane. "


    Jane tightened her grip in his hand.


    "I know. But just let me love you, Adrian. I promise I will not demand. I promise, I will not ask anything in return from you even the slightest of your attention and affection. "


    Ajie pulled out his hand but pulled her over instead in a warm embrace.


    "I don''t deserve your affection either, Jane. This breaks my heart because I cannot return it. You''re such a lovely being who deserves the best in this world. "He explained gently, his chin in her shoulders.


    "Why can''t it be you, Adrian? "She whispered into his ears as her tears fell down uncontrollably, leading later into a bitter sob.


    For five years, she had kept the feelings to herself, silently wishing she could hold him closely as her man. Yet, she knew that all those hugs and kisses on her cheeks and forehead which Ajie gave her were just friendly acts. Or, a sweetness of a big brother to a younger sister which showed his sign of great respect to her. She longed for something more than that. She even dreamed of snuggling at him closely in the bed and wake up to see him first in the morning. She had all the luxury this world can offer but hearing him say, "I love you, " was something their wealth could not afford. She wished to kiss him passionately and see his eyes burning with desire for her. But all those were just like stars she wished to pick up but couldn''t.


    "Someday, you will find the right person for you. " He assured her, even if it would only hurt her even more.


    "Adrian, if Allie would no longer come back after so many, many years, will you love me, instead? "


    Ajie laughed in great pity towards her. "Of course, my dear. "


    "Promise? " Jane pulled herself from his embrace and looked at him with tearful eyes.


    "Promise. "


    "Can you write it in my heart? " She asked again between her stiffled sobs.


    "I can. " He answered as he planted a kiss on her forehead.

 Chapter 79 - On Business Partnership

    "Hi, Zheen! Are you there? I have already talked to Jane and she also suspected that Chloe may have a speech problem. Since she is aiming to be a neurodevelopmental pediatrician, I am sure she could handle Chloe''s case very well. She will be evaluating my baby tomorrow at her office. "


    It was already 1 am in Istanbul but Allie still couldn''t sleep. She was too hurt and bothered by Ajie''s plan on marriage annulment as well as his plan to remarry. While her thoughts was on him, a message notification sounded. She hurried to pick it up and her heart instantly skipped a beat in seeing Ajie''s name.


    "Nice to hear that. The earlier the intervention, the better. " She replied


    with a heavy heart as it was rent in so much worry for her daughter.


    "Yes. Thank you so much for noticing it. "


    "Adrian, why do you need to bring Chloe to Jane''s office when you said you are all living with her? "


    Ajie smiled inwardly after reading her question. p. "It''s because she is very busy. And besides, all her tools are in the office. "


    "I see, " was Allie''s brief reply.


    "Zheena, would you mind if I also ask some things about you? It''s been five years of chatting with you and our topics were only mostly about Chloe. "


    "Sure. "


    "Tell me about yourself. " His request somewhat made Allie''s heartbeats go in a wrong direction.


    She was a bit confused on what and how much would she reveal about herself. It took her longer to reply but Ajie sent her a follow up question.


    "I work as a personnel manager of a shipping company. I also have a daughter but I leave her to my parents because I get a job here in other country.


    "Married or single mom? "


    "Married but our marriage is already on the rocks. "


    "Sad to know that. Would you mind if I ask why? "


    Allie held her breath upon realizing that she had gone far in exposing herself.


    "Perhaps because of distance and also because he has found someone else. "


    "Really? "


    "Sadly, yes. "


    "Aren''t you going home and reconcile with him? "


    "I am but it seems he can no longer wait. "


    "Do you still love him? Or, is there already someone else? "


    Allie''s mind went on Hayri and his persistence in courting her. Though her heart broke many times in pity for him but he was not yet her "someone else".


    "When I gave my vow, I was thinking of forever. "


    Ajie choked when he read this but before he could change the topic, Allie sent him a message.


    "What about you and your plan for marriage dissolution? "


    "I''ll be filing it as soon as possible. "


    "What!!!!"


    "I''m sorry, Zheen. This may sound cruel of me but I have my reasons to do it. Trust me, this is for the good of both of us. "


    Ajie was explaining? What good could he get from it? Freedom from her? Allie felt her heart was pricked with million thorns...


    On the other hand, Ajie was thinking about the advantage of doing it as Mr. Lopez suggested. Either she would show up or Louise would think that Allie was really gone, because even he as her husband even gave up in finding her. Somehow, his thoughts went on Jane...


    Allie stood up as she felt she couldn''t breathe anymore. What would she do? Would she just allow him to be gone forever? As she pondered about it, she came up with an idea.


    "Adrian, I need an investor for my business expansion in the Philippines. I am wondering if you might be interested. "Allie held her breath as she waited for his reply.


    Business expansion? How come a personnel manager be expanding a business when she was only an employee? Why does she have to work and focus instead on her business?


    "Business? "


    "Yes. I am the new principal shareholder of Rough Seas Marine Supplies and Equipments. "


    "Really? "


    "Think about it, Adrian. I will send everything you need to know about the company. "


    However, after few minutes, Allie only sent him the details of the company''s profile and their financial growth.


    "Where''s the proposal? " Ajie asked impatiently as it really caught his interest.


    "Let''s talk about the details personally, Adrian. The company will shoulder all the necessary expenses including your plane tickets and hotel accomodation. "


    "Istanbul, Turkey? " Ajie got horrified with the thought of traveling that far, having no interest in business at all.


    "Yes, Adrian. Consider it as your short break. " She clasped her hands together, praying that he would consider.


    "I''ll think about it then. "


    ___


    Early the next morning, Ajie couldn''t wait to talk to his most trusted consultant. He picked his phone, scanned his contacts and pressed the call button.


    "Adrian..."


    "Sir, someone asked me to invest for a business expansion in the Philippines. " Ajie then narrated everything which Allie offered to him.


    "That''s good for a start up. Grab it, Adrian. All the branches of my company, AJ & J Builders, will surely sign a contract with you. "


    "As for the financial aspects, I''ll help you on that. "


    Ajie was dumbfounded. His intention was to ask for his opinion only but he didn''t expect that he would also offer his financial support.


    ___


    Few hours later, Ajie was already knocking in Jane''s office with Chloe.


    "Come in. " Jane said as she looked up from her desk.


    Seeing Chloe holding Ajie''s hand, she stood up gracefully with a big smile.


    "My baby is so beautiful! Come to auntie. " She said as she bent down and lifted Chloe in her arms.


    "Say good morning to auntie. "Ajie demanded as he saw that Chloe remained silent.


    "Good morning, auntie. " Chloe gave her a quick glance and looked down shyly afterwards.


    "That''s so cute of you! " She exclaimed as she pinch her cheek gently and kissed it afterwards.


    "Shall we play together? "Jane said excitedly as she reached out a box at a shelf on the corner.


    Seeing the pictures on the box, Chloe wriggled and slid down from Jane''s arms. She then looked up and reached out for the box.


    Jane poured out the contents of the box on the center table. Those were wooden, square blocks which had four equal sides.


    "Baby, each block has a letter on it. I want you to arrange it in proper order. "


    Without further instructions, Chloe quickly grabbed the blocks and turned it all to display the letters on the top. She then arranged it from the first letter of the alphabet down to letter Z. "


    "Wow! My baby is so good..." Jane then brought another set of blocks with numbers in it.


    Seeing the box of another set of blocks, Chloe spread out her little arms and reached out for the blocks.


    "Do you want to play with this? "


    Chloe nodded vigorously.


    "What will you say to auntie if you want to play with this? "


    Chloe looked at the tray, gave her a swift glance then walked away from her. She then walked towards a shelf of educational toys and touched one of them admiringly.


    Jane put down the tray of blocks in her hand and went over to Chloe.


    "Baby, do you like that? " Jane asked Chloe as she picked up the box.


    Chloe nodded vigorously again.


    "Then ask auntie a permission to play with that. "


    Chloe glanced up at her again but did not say a word.

 Chapter 80 - The Shocking News

    Chloe walked away again and went to another corner, gazing at a poster with a pre -school child playing on the sand.


    "Baby, what do you think the child is doing? " Jane said as she picked her up in her arms to keep her eyes at the level of the poster.


    "Baby...play...sand. " Jane''s heart sank as she watched her reaching out happily at the poster. Five -year-old children can already carry on a conversation. They don''t only answer questions easily and logically but they can already express their feelings and ideas.


    "Can we play again? "


    "Yeah. " Chloe then slid out from her arm and went back to the table, gazing at the boxes with a sense of longing in her eyes to touch it.


    Jane glanced up at Ajie, who was lounging lazily at the couch, silently observing them.


    "Coffee? " Ajie caught her eyes and gave her a pursed smile. Noticing her uncomfortable gaze towards him, he nodded in order to break the tension.


    Jane went back to Chloe first and instructed her to arrange the blocks with the numbers and arrange it as much as she could. There were over 100 blocks but she did not expect much that Chloe could arrange it all.


    Giving her time, she stood up to answer the need of this man whose presence now made her knees tremble.


    She went inside a room and when she returned, there was already a tray in her hand with a steaming cup. The tempting aroma of a freshly - brewed coffee quickly diffused all throughout the room making Ajie look up in her direction. She placed it on a two-seater coffee table by the window and gestured for Ajie to come over.


    Ajie came forward and sat elegantly on one leather chair, crossing his knee over the other. He picked up a stirrer and dipped it in the cup, stirring the coffee lightly. Jane also placed two big slices of blueberry cheesecake in the center of the table, obviously for him and Chloe.


    "Do you really stock sweets here in your office? " He asked, pretending he was worrying about her consumption of too much sweets.


    "Sometimes. "


    "Watch out. Sweets can spoil your efforts in dieting. " He chuckled lightly as he saw that she stiffened up.


    These awkward reactions of hers only started when she confessed her feelings towards him. She no longer held a long eye contact at him, making him a little amused. How he wished he could turn back the time when Jane could freely express herself! How he wished he had not forced her to confess if this would only create a gap between them. He loved her presence and there was never a dull moment with her around. He felt a sense of discomfort deep inside. Was it only pity?


    "Can you, please, join me here? It feels so lonely to have coffee alone."


    "I''m done. "She replied, avoiding his eyes.


    "Then just stay with me. Let''s talk"


    He insisted, fixing his gaze at her.


    Jane gave out a sigh and suddenly glared at him. "Adrian, you''re distracting me. Remember, I''m evaluating your child. "


    "I''m sorry. "He responded with a teasing smile, not sorry at all.


    Jane rolled her eyes, to his amusement, then she went back to Chloe and watched her admiringly. She was very fast in turning the blocks and arranging it from the first number down to 100!


    "Wow! You''re so brilliant like auntie! You did it so quickly, my love! " Chloe smiled shyly but proudly, still without a word.


    "Can we play some more? "Jane asked excitedly with glowing eyes.


    "Yeah! " Chloe responded with equal degree of excitement as Jane showed. Her eyes also widened and her face flushed, making her look prettier and lovelier.


    "Let''s go! " Jane then stood up and held out a hand to her.


    Jane then turned to Ajie. "Jie, if you have important appointments, you may go as this will take us long. "


    "I have but my daughter is also important. " He answered as he glanced up from a magazine he was reading.


    " You also have nothing to do here. Will call you up once we''re through. "


    "Where are you going? "


    "To the playroom. "


    "I see. " He then looked back down on the magazine from where he left and his brows instantly knitted.


    He was reading the latest issue of Forbes, an American business magazine. Published bi-weekly, it features original articles on finance, industry, investing, and marketing topics. Forbes also reports on related subjects such as technology, communications, science, politics, and law.


    "Rina DK Builders, Inc. (formerly Gretel Shipping Lines Shipyard) is going to announce soon their ceremonial launching and maiden voyage of their first mighty creation of a luxurious, modern day cruise ship.


    Expected to be the world''s second most largest and most luxurios cruise ship in the world, it''s maiden voyage will take the route towards the CEO''s most loved homeplace, The Philippines.


    AJ & J Builders, Inc., the world''s top producer of luxurious superyachts, has not formally announced yet the details of the launching of their first state-of-the-art creation, the world''s most largest and most beautiful cruise ship.


    For those who wanted to be a part of it''s memorable maiden voyage from Turkey to the Philippines, booking schedules are now open to the public...."


    Ceremonial ship launching is the naval tradition in many cultures wherein a vessel is transferred to the water. It has been observed as a public celebration and a solemn blessing. The process also involves traditions intended to invite good luck, such as christening by breaking a  bottle of champagne  over the bow as the ship is named aloud and launched.


    Ajie thought he had no competitor during the launching. What shocked him the most was the fact that Rina DK Builders, Inc was not heard before and this was absolutely a new company.


    He called up Mr. Lopez right away and his answer hit him like an explosives into his brain.


    "Son, I''ve lost track of the latest update lately but as what I have just learned, Rina DK Inc. is owned by Louise Dioko himself... "

 Chapter 81 - The Competitor Is A Woman

    When Mr. Lopez didn''t hear a reply from the other line anymore, he suspected that Ajie was being astounded with the news. He, perhaps, did not expect that someone else would share his glory. Although Ajie was never a greedy person, he could still feel frustrated. After all, he had always wanted to gain the reputation as the builder of the world''s largest and most beautiful ship. Not may be forever, but for a certain span of time.


    All the ship builders had an association and it was impossible for him not to know about any progress a ship building company would have. Yet, this Rina DK Builders, Inc. was silently creating their masterpiece which shocked the whole marine insdustry. To top it all, the CEO was Louise himself, which for him was too unbelievable, having known him personally from his childhood. Though he garnered myriad of awards in school, he thought these would all be in vain since his anger and revenge would destroy it all.


    Just yesterday, as he visited Mr. Dioko in jail, Mr. Gregorio was there.It was when he got the full length of the story. Mr. Gregorio happily announced that the shipyard which just used to be a side business of the main Gretel Shipping Line, had independently separated and ventured on building marine vessels.


    Mr. Dioko was in tears when Mr. Gregorio narrated everything, including his success in the completion of his business degree. He also relayed his plans in taking over the management of Gretel Shipping Lines as well as in carrying out their goal to produce a fleet of luxurious superyachts and military warships.


    At the mention of Louise''s plan to take over their main business, Mr. Dioko broke into a sob. Who would ever thought that his son, who was spoiled and overly - protected, could handle such downfall and loss! He didn''t expect that he would be highly motivated to such length despite his absence. At that moment, he felt he was the proudest and the most accomplished father in the whole world. No one else, except a father, would understand just how deep was his joy and sense of fulfillment. He felt he was already ready to die, seeing that his son could now independently support himself.


    "All because of a woman, Dioko boy."


    Mr. Gregorio gave them both a wide grin as he encircled an arm around Mr. Dioko to comfort him.


    "You mean my prince is in love? "He said as he sniffed in between his sobs.


    "Definitely. And with the woman who motivates and inspires him. "


    "Arrange them the marriage as soon as possible. I cannot afford to lose this woman over his delay in proposing to her. Too many things can happen in a day."


    "She''s the woman whom you granted a scholarship. And true to her words, it was she who drafted the design of our first vessel. The irony of it was that she seemed to have discarded that design as she is focusing more on building superyachts. But your son stole it and had it built secretly in a place she didn''t know until now."


    "When is the ceremonial launching? "


    Mr. Dioko stopped crying and his face glowed in happiness.


    "During their graduation. It would be your son''s gift as a tribute to the woman who inspires him to become what and who he is now. "


    Mr. Dioko cried again. "It''s so sad that I cannot be there for them. "


    Mr. Gregorio became teary - eyed as well. "Cheer up, Dioko boy! Her maiden voyage will be from Turkey to the Philippines. "


    Mr. Dioko then turned to Mr. Lopez after some moments of silence.


    "Angelo, the only way I can be in the vessel''s inauguration is to push through with my plan. "


    Mr. Lopez drew his brows together and gazed at him.


    "What plan? "


    "To be a state witness. I would not only be acquitted but I will also be granted with the law''s security and protection program."


    ___


    Ajie got lost in his thoughts as he stared on the page of the magazine. If Louise was now occupied in his business, perhaps, he had already stopped on his hunting for Allie. And the best way to let Allie come out from her shell was to push through with the plan. And besides, the launching of both of their creation would surely brought him and Louise together. His marriage annulment plan would then be exposed and that would give Louise the conclusion that Allie''s appearance was already hopeless. In that way, Allie could safely return without being tracked down. If only she would show up again, he would be the one to hide her and keep her safe. Their daughter needed a mother and he needed a wife.


    A ring from his phone broke him away from his train of thoughts. It was Mr. Dioko.


    "Son, I forgot to tell you that your competitor is a woman whom Louise adores... " He then told him the whole story he got from Mr. Gregorio.


    Ajie suddenly felt uneasy at the mention of '' a woman that Louise adored''. He didn''t understand but there was an ill feeling inside him which he couldn''t explain. Perhaps because, he could not accept that his competitor, the one who could possibly thwart the realization of his dreams, was no other than a woman.


    Poking and twirling his fork on the cheesecake absentmindedly, he was abruptly brought to the reality when he unintentionally noticed that the cheesecake was crushed into tiny pieces! He recalled that it was supposedly Chloe''s share so he also remembered that this moment was supposedly for her alone. He stood up with a sense of guilt for having allowed other things to steal his time for her.


    He stood up and walked towards the direction of the playroom. He opened it slowly and saw Chloe walking through a maze. Being unnoticed or perhaps Jane just pretended that she did not notice him, he sat down silently in a chair near the door.


    Next, he saw that Jane was opening up a video. It was a fire scene where a firetruck was seen coming over to a burning house.


    "Baby, what''s the video all about? "


    Chloe, who was now feeling comfortable with Jane, pointed a finger on the video while jumping up in place excitedly.


    "Auntie, firetruck! "


    "What''s the firetruck aiming to do? "


    "Fire! Fire! "


    "Do you mean that the firemen are going to stop the fire? "


    "Yeah! "


    "How are they going to do it? "


    "Like that, like that! "Chloe clasped her hands together and moved it up and down, acting out the way a fireman put out a fire with a hose.


    Jane smiled tenderly at Chloe and then she stretched out her arms to hug her. Chloe also ran towards her and wrapped her short arms around her waist.


    "Because you are very good, auntie is going to reward you with a cheesecake! " She said excitedly as she held Chloe''s hand towards the door.


    She pretended to look surprised to see Ajie by the door, watching them intently with those lazy eyes of his.


    "I''m done with my assessment. Let''s talk. "

 Chapter 82 - She Can Call Me Mommy

    Jane brought Chloe directly to the coffee table for the cheesecake she promised, only to get horrified to see it crushed into tiny pieces! The once inviting slice with blueberry topings and a red cherry on top was not only deformed, but was almost pulverized.


    "Ajie! What happened to you? "


    Ajie smiled wickedly and placed a hand in her shoulder. "I''m sorry, dear. I have the habit of tearing whatever is in my hands whenever I am in deep thoughts. "


    To his surprise, Jane laughed out loudly. "What make me so funny? "


    "I can relate. There was even a time when I realized I have torn an important document." She looked up and smiled, setting aside her sense of awkwardness for a while.


    Ajie felt something like a feather brushing his heart. He felt tickled and happy that Jane was being herself once again.


    "There was also once when I have torn a paper bill intended for my school allowance for the whole month. " Ajie''s eyes sparked in amusement as he recalled the incident.


    "What did you do? "


    "Nothing. I endured the whole month of being deprived with snacks and and viands for lunch. "


    "What a pity! " As Jane laughed again, her eyes wandered over to Chloe who sat quietly on the chair with teardrops in her cheeks.


    "I''m sorry, baby! " She exclaimed as she regretfully hugged her, feeling sorry for having her forgotten for a while.


    "I''ll get another slice. " With this, she hurried off inside a room and when she came back, she already had a food tray in her hand.


    Leaving Chloe on the table who was now beaming with happiness, Jane gestured for Ajie to follow her.


    She sat behind her desk and turned on her laptop.


    "For a while. Let me finish this. " She said without looking up as her fingers started to dance over the keyboard.


    After a while of waiting, Jane finally handed to Ajie the evaluation report.


    The latter hurriedly ran his eyes towards the impression and his jaw dropped upon reading it.


    "Based on my evaluation, I have assessed Chloe to be a 5-year- 6-month- old girl whose skills in some areas assessed are within and beyond age-expected levels but fell below age - expected levels with language-based skills. These deficits may be attributed to a Borderline or Mild Intellectual Disability, a developmental


    disability with significant limitations in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behaviors as expressed in conceptual, social, and practical adaptive skills. "


    Ajie looked up with furrowed brows after reading a portion of the assessment. "What do you mean by this? I don''t understand at all. "


    Jane watched his reaction closely and her heart was likewise torn to see that gloom his eyes.


    "It means that some areas in Chloe''s intellectual development are beyond and within expected levels. It means that in certain areas, her intelligence is beyond a normal child of her age level, but in some areas, she is also slow. " She paused for a while, allowing Ajie to digest everything.


    " Some areas prove that she is behind by two years and a half especially in language - related skills. She is already five years old and six months but she speaks like a three year old. "


    "What are the factors which cause her deficiencies? " Ajie stared at her without blinking.


    "It is unknown but family history, physical and emotional trauma may be the contributing factors. " She explained carefully, choosing the right words that would not offend him further.


    "Is it medically - related? Do her illness and two surgeries can likewise be contributing factors? "


    "We really can''t tell. "


    "What should I do? "


    "There are tests she needs to undergo which is the Psychometric Testing. " Jane paused and looked straight into his eyes to ensure that he would absorb everything she would explain.


    "Psychometric testing is an integral component of the comprehensive evaluation and ongoing management of the child who struggles with schoolwork. The assessment will determine Chloe''s abilities, disabilities, and learning styles for appropriate educational placement. It may include a determination of her intellectual potentials using a standardized test of intellectual functioning. Information gained from this testing can be used for better instruction to meet Chloe''s specific needs. "


    Ajie never felt afraid in all his life than that moment. His heart was shattered to know that his daughter would not grow up as a normal child. While his intellectual capacity


    was above average, his child suffered the opposite.


    "What else? "


    "She needs a school which offer an Individualized Education Program which, fortunately, Beautiful Haven is offering. Such school addresses a child''s personal need and adjust to the child''s learning capacity. We do not move to another topic if a child still doesn''t understand it. Unlike in regular school where the teacher moves forward to another topic regardless of a child''s degree in understanding."


    " If a child is a fast- learner, then she can go fast without the need to wait for others. If a child is the opposite, then he can stay in a certain topic until she/he can be ready to move forward. "


    Ajie just nodded silently, his gaze remained nailed to Jane''s eyes.


    "Perhaps, you will now understand why I am opening up this kind of school. It''s because my heart goes out to these kind of children. I want to help them. I want to be the channel of their transition into a normal and independently - functioning individual. "


    "Wow, Jane. A toast to your dedication and advocacy! "


    Jane ignored him and went on. "The next best thing to do is family support. Talk to her always and introduce everything she is holding and watching. Introduce situations where she is encouraged to talk and explain. "


    Ajie''s turned red at the mention of family support. He may be around but his time was limited. He may be loved so much by her grannies but she didn''t have a mother.


    "We are guilty of this. While I am busy with my studies and work, Allie has also disappeared. There''s no one else to be blamed than us. "


    Jane stood up in pity for the man she secretly admired for years. Unfortunately, his worries were never related to her and for sure, what he was thinking now was not about herself but Allie. Nevertheless, she stood up beside him and rubbed his back.


    "Don''t worry, Jie. I will hire the best occupational therapist to handle her.


    I''ll make it sure that her learning methods would be fun. Aside from that, I will give time for her everyday."


    "Occupational therapists (OT)  can help kids with various needs improve their cognitive, physical, sensory, and motor skills and enhance their self-esteem and sense of accomplishment."


    To her surprise, Ajie laughed out loudly after her serious explanation.


    "Do you allow yourself to be a mother image to Chloe? "


    Jane quickly replied sincerely as well. " Why not? I would love to. From now on, she can call me ''mommy''. "

 Chapter 83 - Chloes Needs

    "Zheen, I''m here again. I''m sending you the copy of Chloe''s evaluation report. Wish we could chat later. "


    Ajie closed his phone right away after sending the message. Jane had excused herself as a call was coming through, so he hurriedly forwarded the copy which she also sent to his email.


    He wondered why he felt drawn to this Zheena who didn''t even show a single photo of her. All her uploaded photos were all scenic views such as the sea, tea gardens especially the Pierre Loti and different designs of superyachts. He was so excited to send her updates about Chloe and his plan to accept her offer.


    "Daddy, water..."


    "Say, please. "


    "Please. " Chloe''s face was streaked with white cream as she carelessly stuffed each spoonful of cake into her mouth.


    Ajie pulled out a pack of wet wipes from her bag as well as her water canister. He then gently wiped her mouth with the wipes then helped her with the water.


    Jane''s voice interrupted his train of thoughts as she approached them.


    "Jie, I''d like to point out an example. Since her difficulties is the language, you need to tell everything you do for her. For example, ''I''m going to clean your mouth with wet wipes. Or, I''m going to open your water bottle so that you can drink. "


    "In that way, she will be familiarized with the things around her. "


    "I see. Did my parents do it when I was a child? "


    "No, of course. But my parents did. I also grow up with an occupational therapist because of my speech problem. "


    "So do you mean, Chloe''s case is not hopeless? "


    "With patience and strong family support, she could also improve greatly like me. "


    "This is where Chloe needs a mother. " He sad sadly, tearing Jane''s heart.


    "I also did not grow up with a mother. But dad''s love was enough for me and so is Louise. "


    Speaking of Louise, his name hit his heart like a thorn. "How much do you know him? "


    "We are childhood friends because our daddies are bestfriends. "


    Ajie suddenly felt a surge of hope. Why was he not able to think about it before? "Are you still communicating? "


    "It has been a very long while. We both got busy. Eversince his dad was arrested, I no longer heard about him. "


    "Isn''t it a right time to reach out to him instead? He lose a father so you could have lightened up his grief. "


    Chloe slid down from the chair so their conversation was halted. "Where are you going? "


    "Play! " She yelled as she went back to the table with the boxes of blocks.


    Ajie turned to Jane again after he had followed Chloe with his eyes.


    "Jane, can you do me a favor? Can you, please, find out indirectly the status of his hunting for Allie? "


    "Sure. Why have I not thought about it before? " She felt triumphant but then sank back when she realized that she would be helping them to reconcile.


    "Thank you, Jane. I wish I could somehow return all the favors you have given me. "


    Jane looked up and smiled. "I''m not asking for any return. "


    Having overwhelmed with the thought that Chloe needed a mother, he reached out for her hand under the table and looked straight into her eyes.


    "Jane, if Allie wouldn''t show up after the annulment process, will you marry me? "


    "Adrian..." She stared at the big hand which covered hers, finding it difficult to look up. "But you don''t love me. "


    A marriage annulment process can last up one to two years so did it mean that her greatest desire, greater than the luxury she had enjoyed, would finally be realized? Besides, she couldn''t understand why Allie had to hide from Ajie. She could always send him a message.


    "It can be learned and besides, all these years there''s no other woman linked to me except you. "


    Jane almost wept out with that very slight glimmer of hope. She couldn''t care less if this man wouldn''t love her in return as long as he would cherish no other woman than his wife.


    "With one condition, Adrian. " She spoke, still being unable to take his melting gaze.


    "Tell me. " Ajie lifted up her chin to let her look at him.


    "Let Chloe call me ''mom''. "


    Ajie smiled at the very selfless condition she had asked. And that was the very reason why he considered marrying her. "Does it mean that you are willing to marry me? "


    "I will. " Jane closed her eyes as she looked down, feeling hurt by the fact that Ajie could not kiss her the way any man does whenever a woman accepts a marriage proposal. She felt a sense of self - pity but her love for him covered all her insecurities.


    Ajie pulled her close to him in a tight hug, being moved greatly by her selfless love.


    "Thank you, Jane. "


    But Jane only replied him with her tears.


    ____


    Two hours after a lunch with Jane and Chloe, Ajie found himself sitting in front of Atty. Manloza, a legal adviser who was recommended to him by Mr. Lopez.


    "So, you are Adrian James Gonzaga? " The scrutinuzing eyes of the lawyer bore into his heart with guilt.


    "Mr. Lopez called me up that you are on your way. "Atty. Manloza added as she gave him a pursed smile though he was not convinced of her kindness.


    "So the marriage really doesn''t work out?" She lifted up a brow with a sardonic smile. "It has been more than five years. "


    Ajie was surprised. She seemed to know something about them. She must have read his reaction because she then chuckled out softly.


    "What do you mean, Atty.? "He asked, his head remained lowered down.


    Atty. Manloza suddenly seemed hesitant but seeing his questioning reaction, she went ahead.


    "Five years ago, Miss Allyza came over here. She said that the main reason for her decision to break free from you was because you were cheating on her. So, am I right that your reason in coming here is because of that woman? "


    "What? There is no woman involved, I am honest with that. "


    "What happened then? " She asked, as she slightly turned her swivel chair.


    "It has been five years since she disappeared..."


    Atty. Manloza nodded silently as her eyes remained plastered at him.


    "Well, I should believe you because that is what Mr. Lopez told me. But I would be honest with you, I am bothered by that pain I saw on your wife''s eyes. I have ignored her though and told her, instead, to talk it out to you sincerely. "


    "Atty., are you sure you are referring to my wife? "


    "How could I forget? It was you who rescued Mr. Lopez. I even agreed that Dr. Jane would find you as a good husband, only to learn that you are about to get married to Miss Allyza. "

 Chapter 84 - He Missed Her

    Atty. Manloza gave out a long sigh which gave out an impression that she favored the whines of women better than men. However, she did not push through with the topic, sensing perhaps that the situation was beyond rectification.


    "Okay, Adrian. I''ll discuss with you the processes and then you may sign the contract afterwards. "


    The discussion had been more than Ajie could absorb since his thoughts went out to the cheating charges thrown at him. That''s maybe why that message from an unknown person who introduced himself as Allie talked about his betrayal and his sex video. He got amused at the thought of it. Never in his whole lifetime would he record himself in a heated encounter with a woman! What would he look like? Wouldn''t it be so creepy to see himself on a video, burning in lust and desire? Wouldn''t it be so lewd to see himself running his tounge over the most delicate territories of a woman?


    He was honestly thinking that that message came from Zheena herself as she strongly disagreed on his plan to annul his marriage to Allie. He thought she was just creating another account to stop him, only to realize now that it could really be Allie herself. What a great coincidence!


    Ajie was brought back into reality when he heard Atty. Manloza chuckling out softly. "Let''s discuss further next time because as expected, no one would be in a perfect frame of mind to discuss about a painful decision in life. "


    "I''m fine, Atty...I want to sign the contract right now.


    While Atty. Manloza handed him the necessary sheets for signing, she went ahead with the discussion.


    "Next to this is your psychological evaluation prior to the filing of your petition. I will notify you of your schedule. "


    "Thank you, Atty. ''Til our next meeting. "


    After leaving the law firm''s office, he glanced at his watch and realized it was still very early. He took a leave from the office today since he had to set a time for her daughter. He decided to go home to his apartment. For the past five years, he only dropped by everyday but never stayed longer than an hour.


    The moment he went inside, he suddenly felt a sense of emptiness. This used to be his and Allie''s love nest since most of the time whenever he''s around, his mother-in-law would pick Chloe up and bring her to their place, the door next to his. It was here where they talked about their goals and dreams. It was here where he renewed his vow many times to her ears as he made love to her.


    He even recalled all those times when a simple hug and endearments


    would always end them up in a tedious fight in bed. There were also many times when she couldn''t finish her cooking because he would kiss her neck and spine while she was stirring at the cooking pot. And there were many times where she attempted to get dressed after a heated intimacy, only to be stripped off again because he couldn''t bear to just watch her without crushing her. He smiled at the memories, not realizing that tears were already escaping from his eyes. He badly missed her!


    While engrossed with his reveries, a message notification popped up in his phone screen. It was Zheena. He hurriedly went inside their bedroom and settled comfortable in the bed.


    "Adrian, I''m here already. What''s the news? "


    Ajie took a photo of him, showing the background of their bedroom. It also captured the photo frame by their bedside table where he was hugging Allie from behind, his chin resting on her shoulder. He then sent the photos to Zheena.


    "Where are you? " Zheena was already crying the moment she saw the background of their bedroom. It held too many memories of them as a married couple.


    "In our bedroom. "


    "You''re with Jane?"


    "Of course, not. Hahaha! "


    Then he followed up another message which broke her heart. "I miss my wife, Zheen. I really miss her. "


    Allie broke down into a loud sobbing when she read it, feeling the same magnitude of loneliness Ajie had perhaps felt. Even if she doubted that she may had lost his heart to Jane, she was not that easy to forget.


    "How about your plan for marriage annulment? " She asked, wishing that the thing she was so afraid to know, wouldn''t be what he would answer.


    "I filed it today with Atty. Manloza. "


    Allie could no longer see the screen due to the deluge of tears that suddenly rushed out from the wells inside her eyes. She knew that since Ajie had such a strong connection through Mr. Lopez, she expected that their marriage would be dissolved in six months to one year. Sadly in her country, everything could be done in magic when you have the resources and connections.


    "Are you so excited to marry Jane? "


    She may had dared to ask those painful questions but the pain which his answers created, backfired ten times, creating herself an avulsed wound inside her heart.


    "I have to because of Chloe. "


    "What''s happening with Chloe? "


    Her heartbeats had already gone wild, ready to escape from the walls of her chest.


    Ajie relayed everything Jane had explained to her including the need of strong family support.


    "I love Jane as a very close friend only but my daughter is more important to me. I can fake out the feelings until I will learn but I cannot ignore my daughter''s need. "


    "Please, don''t. No one could ever replace a mother''s heart. "


    "I can no longer wait. If she has a plan to return, she should have done it earlier. "


    "Be patient, Adrian. There''s no turning back. Think about it deeply. "


    "If she would show up during the court hearing, then I will stop the petition. "


    She cried harder when she realized that Ajie had already made up his mind.


    He can fake out the feelings...


    This statement replayed in her thoughts over and over like an automated machine. Would she go home? How could she when Hayri had some men assigned at the airports? What if she would fail in her disguise? All her sacrifices would be in vain. She then thought of her last effort to save both her marriage and her life. She had to convince him about their business partnership. She had to see him in person!


    As for Hayri, she could always make an alibi to see him because of her designation in Rough Seas. She would schedule a meeting with him on a time that Hayri would most likely be occupied. Or, she would find a way to make him busy.


    After a long while, she typed again.


    "Adrian, how about my proposal?"


    To her surprise, Ajie replied. "Book my flight as soon as possible. "

 Chapter 85 - Please Dont Hate Me

    "Book my flight as soon as possible."


    Allie almost jumped out for joy the moment she read his reply. Finally, she would see him again. To introduce herself on the social media app would be a lot easier but it was something she was too afraid of. Afraid that a time would come when one of Hayri''s men will pressure him or threat him to confess. Just as how his men tortured their neighbors in Kamelyo during their series of interrogations. One of her relatives even died during the series of torture. He was not able to endure the beatings after failed interrogations and the depth of his injuries caused a massive bleeding of his major organs. God forbid, she couldn''t allow that to happen. As a child who grew up in the bloody fields of Kamelyo, whose cries of the victims and afflicted were mostly left unheard, one careless act from her would cause her family those untold miseries.


    However, she could not allow her marriage to dissolve over to Jane. She must do something to save it. If this decision of revealing herself would pose a great threat to Ajie, at least, she could first explain her side. She could personally tell him the full details of her reasons why she ran away. To see him would be her first act of bravery and forgiveness for all the lies he had done for her.


    She thought of ways to meet Ajie where she would be spared from Hayri''s suspicions. She planned to set it at Rough Seas but Hayri had the habit of walking into the'' office unannounced. The personnel knew him already and they treated him as one of the VIP''s of the company. His coming in and out of the premises was not questioned or guarded. He was very protective of her and would always free his time to personally drive her to any of her meetings and appointments.


    Due to her excitement, she was not able to sleep well and so she went to the kitchen early to prepare their breakfast and lunch. To prepare their lunch ahead in the morning and heating it during lunchtime would save her time and energy during lunchbreak. Hayri treasured their mealtimes as their most precious moments together. He would always refuse meetings over lunch or dinner because that was one of the ways he showed how he valued her.


    "Good morning, princess. " Hayri''s voice from behind her startled her. She was even more startled when he wrapped his arms around her and kissed the top of her head.


    "You startled me. " She complained as she gently tried to break free from him.


    "Time for our meditation. " Allie smiled as he mentioned it. Hayri was already used to the practice and had incorporated it wholeheartedly to his morning routines.


    "Ah, yes. I''ll just have to finish this. You go ahead. "


    "No, I''ll wait. "


    "You... " She gritted her molars at his stubborness and came forward to pinch his nose. But Hayri was quicker than her. He quickly encircled one arm around her while the other supported her head. He then bent down and sealed her lips with the kiss he had always longed to do for the whole five years. Caught offguard, she lost her balance and fell backward but Hayri steadied her and continued kissing her even deeper. He only released her when he sense that she was already struggling to catch her breath.


    "Hayri...you''re such a cheater. " She exclaimed angrily as she glared at him.


    "That''s the best cheating I ever made which I would never regret. "


    Allie turned her back on him as she went back to the oven to turn it off. She then glanced up at Hayri who was waiting for her by the door.


    "Let''s go. "She said, deciding to ignore his last statement. Hayri then clawed an arm around her waist as she walked past him and guided her towards the living room.


    A quote from an anonymous author was the food for thought in that morning''s reading.


    "When you forgive, you in no way change the past, but you sure do change the future..."


    Allie looked up to Hayri after reading the whole article. "Hayri, how is your heart these days? Have you learned to forgive already? "


    Hayri smiled weakly as he pondered on it. "You know how much I tried, Zheen. During the last five years where you helped me with my struggles to let go of the anger, I believe I already have. Dad is doing well and is happy about it. But what I can''t promise is my reaction if I would finally see her. "


    "What happen to your search and interrogation operation? " She took a deep breath in an unconscious effort to conceal her reaction.


    "Sadly, all records were burnt down and the schools and universities were the company offered the scholarship program, were not able to single out a certain "Allyza" who came out from Kamelyo. "


    Allie''s heartbeats pounded hardly against her chest as she listened intently on him. She wondered how her scholastic records were deleted as well as her PRC (Professional Regulatory Commission) details. Perhaps, Dino had worked out hardly to keep her hidden, including the pulling out of all her records. She wondered how these people worked well in keeping someone'' s confidentiality, only to be disclosed tactlessly by Director General Alfonso himself.


    "As I have always reminded you, Hayri, never let your anger and revenge destroy your future. You just have to call a wrongdoing by it''s right name and know it''s consequences. "


    Hayri nodded silently, held out her hand and kissed it. "I want to take you to daddy after our graduation. I wan''t to let you see how that forgiveness you instilled in my mind for five years affected me. "


    Allie also nodded. It''s now about time to free herself and face her fears. She just realized she was already tired of running away. It had already caused a great damage to herself and her family. Perhaps, Chloe''s speech delay could be attributed to her insecurities of having no mother to send her to school. Perhaps, she was envying all those children who had mothers to kiss them goodbye after sending them to the classroom. Or, mothers to stretch their arms wide to hug them during their class dismissal... The problem must really be that big since Ajie was willing to jump into a loveless marriage just because of their daughter. And because of running away, she would soon be losing a husband and a daughter. Most especially because, as Ajie told her, Jane would now introduce herself as her daughter''s mom.


    She threw herself at Hayri and hugged him emotionally. " Thanks for everything, Hayri. Please don''t hate me in the future. "

 Chapter 86 - The Meeting

    Hayri was already bothered by her figurative statements. There''s no other reason he could think of that would make him hate her except for the closest possibility that she could be her dad''s mistress. If not, she could be the daughter of her dad''s other women or flings. He wouldn''t also believe that she could be his stepsister, or else his father wouldn''t allow them to stay under the same roof together.


    "Can you tell me about it now? If you are my dad''s mistress or a daughter of one of his mistresses, I swear, I would never hate you. "


    Surprised and amused by his answer, she suddenly giggled out loudly and pinched him at his side. "Is that how you see me?"


    "Then why would I hate you?" He paused laughing for a while, raising one brow up, as he was also carried away by her giggling.


    "Forget it for a while. It would no longer be a big suprise. " Hayri could only gave out a long sigh as this woman could easily make him concede to whatever aspect they were in contest of.


    Moments of silence followed and so she got the courage to bring up her excuse in order to meet Ajie. But as to what kind of luck she had been favored with, Hayri paved the way for her.


    "Zheen, I will be out of the country for a while but I will be back in two days. I have already talked to Cherry to accompany you while I am away. "


    She wondered why Hayri didn''t ask her to come. She was used to being dragged wherever he went to and it even gave them out a suspicion that she was Hayri''s woman.


    "Thanks for the thoughtfulness, Hayri. It''s a shame that you even have to bother Cherry in this. You know I can manage alone. "


    "No, my decision is final. "


    "When are you leaving? "


    "In two days. "


    ___


    "Adrian, I have sent to your email the soft copies of your plane tickets, the details of your accomodation as well as your itineraries. "


    Ajie hurriedly opened up the message as soon as the notification appeared in his screen but he squinted in a puzzled expression as soon as he read what it said. He paused for a while to think. As far as he could remember, he had not given her his email. He wanted to ask as his curiousity heightened in the mystery of this woman who seemed to possess a power of hypnotism. Hypnotism because he gradually allowed himself to be carried away by her pull. He was successfully pulled out to become her chat mate. He even looked forward to their next chat session. Chatting wasn''t even enough, he even disclosed his personal life to her. And now, they would soon become business partners.


    He did his own research in this business he would soon invest in and learned that under the new management, Rough Seas Marine Supplies and Equipment had achieved its skyrocketing growth all throughout Europe. He was amused at the thought of it. How easily did he accepted the proposal? In all honesty, he never did a step in all there was in considering if what he did was right or wrong. All this came up because of trust. Trust that was fully given without reservation to a stranger. A stranger he had not met even once.


    ___


    Before the plane took of towards his destination in Istanbul Airport, a call went through. It was Jane. He accepted the call right away and suddenly felt guilty. He had proposed a marriage just few days ago with this woman but how come he had forgotten to tell her that he was already on his way towards a foreign land?


    "Jane... "


    "Adrian, I have already talked to Louise... "


    "What did you learn? " He asked right away, completely forgetting his plan to tell her where he was going.


    "He said he is busy with business right now but he is going home soon. "


    "What about his plot for Allie?" He followed on, not wanting to hear about his business life.


    "He still has men here doing the investigation. "


    "What else did he say? "


    "Not much. He only said that he is still determined in finding her. "


    A long pause followed as Ajie got absorbed in his thoughts. To bridge the gap, she thought of a way to pull him back.


    "He also said another thing. "


    "What is it? " The rhythm of his hearbeats had already gone erratic. His fear immediately took away the best of him.


    "He is in love. "


    Feeling a little relieved, he laughed disdainfully. Why would he care? "Good for him. "


    "Who knows he would be too busy then and forget about hunting on Allie? "


    "Hoping it would be the case. " He replied and before she could talk further, a call to put off the phone or turn it into silent mode filled the atmosphere. He was not even able to say goodbye to her as he suddenly ended the call.


    ___


    Allie could no longer settle herself comfortable in her office. After sending off Hayri to the airport, she went directly to the biggest mall in Istanbul . She bought many things for Chloe, from clothes to accesories, from school materials to toys. She also included few sets for Ajie and some gifts for their parents. Placing it all in a luggage, she then placed a hanging card outside. It said, " My gifts for your loved ones".


    She brought it personally to


    the hotel Ajie would be staying. In few hours, he would be fetched from the hotel and would be brought here in the office. She had already finalized her instructions on Cherry and prepared all the necessary papers needed for their contract signing. Cherry, who knew better than herself in running this company, needed no reminders from her. She would be the one to meet Ajie first before he would be ushered to her office. She didn''t tell her who Ajie was to her life, afraid that she would slip his toungue before Hayri.


    Soon, the intercom sounded. Cherry picked up the phone and was informed that Zheena''s most awaited guest had already arrived.


    Allie, on the other hand, watched Ajie over the monitor as he stepped into her office. Dear saints, he gained more muscles these few years and his features matured, making him look more responsible and irresistibly handsome. She may had seen him often in the photos, but he never looked more stunning in actual appearance. As soon as the door opened, Cherry instantly stood up to meet him.


    However, as their eyes locked, both of them got startled for a while. Their eyes then widened in a mixed emotion of joy and surprise, sending both of them in their arms together, with a squeal of too overwhelming excitement.


    "Cherry! "


    "Adrian. "

 Chapter 87 - Missing You So Badly

    Cherry and Allie shared the same office room, only that Allie''s office was separated from her''s by a private cubicle. Though it was completely insulated from the outside noise coming from Cherry''s place itself, she could always choose to spy on any conversation if she would open the glass window covered by a thick curtain which hanged on the outer wall.Oftentimes, when she needed to ask something from Cherry, she would just slide up the window and pull the curtain to the side. If she had to avoid clients or other investors especially when she was hurrying, she could also take an exit from a door inside her office which directly opened to a private parking space outside the building.


    Watching Cherry and Ajie hugging emotionally now from the monitor, she hurriedly but carefully slid up the window without making a slightest noise. She couldn''t be seen though because of the curtain. Each thug of her heartbeats now seemed like endless thrusts of heavy iron balls against her chest, creating painful blows. How stupid of her! Why didn''t she realize it earlier? The name Cherry Perez never registered in her mind. For more than five years now, recalling this name would always leave her heart stash up in two but she failed to discern it right at the very first moment she met her. . .Perhaps because, her mind was closed to the knowledge that her existence had ended the moment she jumped into the sea. Never did she thought or had taken the possibility, granting the cited reasons for the failure of the search and rescue operation, that she would still live.


    However, she was glad she didn''t recognized her. She wouldn''t have enjoyed their friendship and that she wouldn''t have enjoyed the blessing of knowing her. Her dedication and her brilliance made Rough Seas achieved that unexpected growth in those five years of running it. She operated, not only in the whole country of Turkey, but throughout the whole Europe as well. And now, they were about to expand to their own beloved country.


    Aside from that, she would have been tortured by her ugly thoughts of her and Ajie and she wouldn''t have trusted her. Also because, at the mention of her name, her mind would then fill up the images of Ajie''s betrayal on her. Though her photos held resemblance to her actual features, she was far more beautiful and attractive in person.


    Here comes the irony of it. She had fully trusted her without a slightest doubt that she was the woman Ajie loved so dearly. How foolish of her to believe that she was the only woman he had loved and the only woman he had touched. Only to wake up from the painful reality through that video Andrew sent her. He couldn''t deny it, he was even wearing his favorite shirt on.


    Knowing Cherry for five years, even considering her as her bestfriend, confidante and trustee, she could now understand why Ajie loved her. She was not only sweet, thoughtful, good -natured and brilliant, she was also stunningly beautiful even without make up.


    "Adrian, thank you so much helping me escape. If not because of you, I could have not enjoyed this freedom. " Cherry looked up to him with tears in her eyes and Ajie reached out lovingly to wipe it.


    Ajie chuckled out softly and hugged her once again. "So happy to see you again, Che. Been missing you so badly."


    Cherry got more emotional and she comfortably rested her chin on his shoulder with her arms sticking to his back like leeches. "Miss you so much, too. "


    After those few tormenting minutes of hugging each other which for Allie seemed like eternity, they released each other and Cherry returned to her seat behind her desk. Their conversation became clearer to her now.


    "Any news about Andrew? " Cherry said as soon as she settled comfortably in her swivel chair.


    "It seems that you miss him more than me. "Ajie sat down comfortably before her with a leg crossed over the other.


    "No way. Loving him was the greatest mistake I made in my life. "


    " Stick on the lessons you have learned. You can''t deny it. You shared good times together. "


    "I don''t want to recall it. "She said sadly.


    "So you loved me more than him? "Ajie looked at her with teasing eyes to which Cherry laughed out loud.


    "Yes, Adrian. I loved you and I don''t deny that. I would have gone crazy if not for that stupid feeling I had with you. "


    Ajie frowned at her answer. "Stupid?"


    "Yes, because you are married. I wish Andrew showed you the diary. I wrote Allie''s number there and the details of where to find her. "


    "Yea, but that part was not included."


    "Really? If ever I''ll see him again, I will really crush him. " She swore, gritting her molars.


    "Crush him into your arms? " He made a face which made Cherry laugh.


    "Crazy! " Cherry exclaimed while throwing a crumpled paper into his face.


    Ajie avoided it by catching it with his hand and said something which made Allie''s heart bleed. "Stop it, Che. Talking about him make me jealous. "


    "You''re crazier than ever. " She exclaimed and giggled afterwards. It seemed that Cherry was reminded of something in the past and his statement reminded her of that.


    "How about you, Adrian? " Allie could see the joy in his eyes fading into sorrowful glints.


    " It''s a long story, Che. Take me to a place we could hang out for the whole night. We have so many things to catch up with. "


    "I''ll try to ask Miss Kiamko''s permission first. I have promised Sir Hayri to accompany her at her house for two nights. "


    "Who is Sir Hayri? Is she Miss Kiamko''s husband or boyfriend? "


    "Her employer. " She answered briefly.


    "But he asked you to accompany her? An employer wouldn''t be that thoughtful to his employees. "


    "That''s gossiping, Adrian. We have no right to question them. "


    "I understand. "


    Cherry chuckled out in seeing his reluctance to stop the topic. It gave her the impression that his acceptance to the partnership was not because of his interest in it but perhaps because of his obvious attraction to Zheena.


    "Now, let''s go to back to business. I am given the honor to discuss everyrhing to you. And I hope that at the end of our discussion, you will sign up a contract with us. Because if you won''t, I will feel that I''m not good enough. " Cherry laughed out loudly this time.


    "It''s not about how good you are but about how beautiful you are in attracting your prospects. " He also chuckled out as he argued with her.


    "I''ll put that in mind. " She answered with a smile while her eyes were on the slides projected at the white pull down screen by the wall across them.


    Allie was already sobbing bitterly when they started to discuss the business side. Those tender eyes when he looked at Cherry were like daggers thrown into her heart. Hearing him say that he missed her so badly and stopping her from talking about Andrew was like a death decree to her ears. Perhaps, if they were not in the office they would already be kissing passionately. Those pictures and the video were after all real and not photoshopped...

 Chapter 88 - Losing The Courage

    Allie could no longer count the times she was wailing bitterly but seeing the two in broad daylight caused her utmost pain she had never felt before. Her prolonged wailing eventually made it difficult for her to breath, adding to the pain her heart had been tormented with. She then felt lightheadedness and the spinning sensation followed. Afraid to get caught, she pulled out the neatly folded pieces of cloth under her drawer and wrapped one to cover her hair and another to cover her face so that only her eyes would be revealed. She then grabbed her trenchcoat to conceal herself if ever Ajie would insist to help Cherry. Despite the muscle spasm in both her hands and feet, she still managed to call Cherry up.


    "Che, I need help. " Cherry abruptly stopped her presentation and hurriedly ran towards Allie''s office.


    "Bring me a paper bag. "Allie said as soon as Cherry''s head popped out.


    "My goodness, what happen to you?"


    Cherry leapt forward to her side in fear instead of complying her request. Her knees trembled as she wrapped Allie''s hands with hers, not knowing what to do.


    "Paper bag... " Allie repeated her request as she saw Cherry trembling beside her.


    "Ah, yes. " She replied while panting in fear and then ran out swiftly from the room.


    Ajie saw Cherry''s horrified looks and her pale lips that he grabbed her arm as she ran past him. "What''s happening? " He asked as his heartbeats also accelerated when he felt that she was shaking.


    "Miss Kiamko..."


    "Why? "


    "I don''t know. " She answered while she rummaged into the pantry cabinet.


    "Che, please calm down and let me help you. " Ajie demanded in a loud voice which somehow calmed her down a little abruptly.


    "Miss Kiamko asked for a paper


    bag."


    "Hyperventilating? " Ajie knew well about this as they were also trained in giving life - saving first aid interventions.


    "I don''t know. " Due to panic, she had not seen the stack of paperbags in the top compartment of the pantry. Ajie pulled it himself and ran towards the room without asking first for her permission.


    Seeing Ajie ran inside the office brought Cherry back to her senses. Her fear was instantly shifted to her worries that Zheena may not like to see a stranger on her current state.


    "Adrian, gave it to me. " She yelled and Ajie turned obediently towards her. He then handed her the paper bag and Cherry placed it in Allie''s hand, wondering what that piece of paper could do for her. The latter gestured for both of them to go out.


    "Are you sure, Zheen?" Ajie asked her, setting aside the formalities he knew he must address her for being the principal shareholder of the company.


    Zheena nodded and answered him with a deep and hoarse voice.


    "Please. "


    The two went out as requested and Allie tried to calm herself down. She breathed into the paperbag slowly until she felt better.


    Ajie, on the other hand, was bothered why Zheena was covering herself with a face veil when she was not a citizen of the country. But then she remembered that a great part of the population in this country were Muslims and they were expected to wear hijabs and face veils. He concluded that this Hayri Cherry was referring to was requiring her to wear that. He may had not understood their culture but that was the closest thing that came to his mind. Or, perhaps, she was not allowed to show her face to a man.


    Thinking about it more, he was getting annoyed, most of all because she was just one partition apart from them. She was already having a breathing difficulty, why did she still need to cover her face? And to hell with whatever other reasons she had, why would she let them go out?


    Apart from that, as he may not admit it openly, yet, after those five long years of being chat friends, he was already curious of how she looked.


    "Che, stay by her side. I''m afraid she''ll faint and we will not know it. "


    He said with glints of danger in his eyes which scared Cherry even more.


    "Okay. " With this, she sprinted towards Allie''s room without giving him a second glance.


    Meanwhile, inside Allie''s office...


    "Che, I need to go home. Please stay with our guest. He is such a big loss if we won''t be able to secure the contract from him. "


    Cherry hesitated. "What about you? "


    "I''ll be fine. I''m feeling a little better already. I''ll just have to rest. "


    "I''ll drive you home and I''ll just arrange another meeting with Mr. Gonzaga. " Cherry sincerely and worriedly offered.


    "No. Just send someone else to drive for me. "


    "No. You can''t argue with me anymore about this. So, you better allow me to go home with you. "


    "Okay. " Allie finally conceded as Cherry would not be relieved from her worries if she wouldn''t give in.


    Cherry went back to Ajie to excuse herself but when she went back inside Allie''s office, he followed behind. He saw Zheena stood up with her keys and bag but Cherry took it away from her. She then looked up and met his eyes and dear skies, those eyes seemed familiar! She hurriedly looked away and proceeded to the exit door. As soon as she opened the door, she stepped sideward and he knew instantly that she got dizzy.


    Ajie leapt forward to catch her and lifted her in his arms. He heard her gasped in protest but in the face of a life - threatening situation, he would never budge.


    Cherry ran ahead to open the car and she hurriedly opened up the door to the passenger''s seat. He laid her down gently and placed a throw pillow behind her head. He also saw a folded blanket above the back rest, so he spread it up to cover her.


    "Hop in, Adrian. Fast! " Cherry demanded as she slid behind the steering wheel to drive.


    "Miss Zheen, are you comfortable? "


    He paused for a while to check her.


    "Yes. " Allie still tried to project a hoarse voice or else she would be caught.


    As she heard the sound of a closing door, she breathed deeply and cursed silently. Dear heavens, how she missed those touch, that wonderful feeling of being in his arms! Tears slid off from her eyes once again. He was just so near but knowing that he loved Cherry more than her, made her lost all the courage to reveal herself.

 Chapter 89 - Closer to The Truth

    The trip home was silent but Allie could hear the loud and painful poundings of her heart. Her fear to get caught halted her urge to cry as she felt their presence just in front of her. She could feel him placing her hand on Cherry''s knee as she steered the wheels, the way he always did when they were together. He was now within her reach, and she was even too excited about it but the truth of his betrayal ruined it all. How she wish she coud be brave enough to confront them! But her pride dictated her to swallow up her pain and humiliation silently. She would never beg for his affection. She would never force herself into someone who didn''t love her anymore.


    Before she knew it, Cherry pulled over to the private entrance of their office home. She hurriedly sat up to get out ahead before Ajie would come out. But then she heard Cherry asked something which abruptly stopped her heartbeat.


    "Zheen, shall I inform Sir Dioko about you? He would sure be mad at me if I keep anything from him. "


    Before Allie could reply as she was suddenly confused on how to answer her, Ajie returned her question with another question.


    "Sir Dioko? " He looked at Cherry squarely with furrowed brows which also made her confused.


    "Yes, Sir Hayri or Louise Dioko. " Cherry stared at Ajie with equally questioning arch of her brows but Ajie just took a deep breath and kept his silence.


    Allie held her breath in annoyance but she could, in no way, blame Cherry. She didn''t know anything and anyone''s innocence would sometimes cause trouble than peace. Lost in her thought, Ajie opened up the door unnoticed and she was only brought back to reality when she saw Ajie bending down to lift her up. She was about to protest but then she remembered that if she would speak up, Ajie could surely recognize her voice. She looked up at him just as Ajie also glanced up and their eyes met. She saw his eyes flickered and narrowed, as if he recognized her gaze.


    "Miss Zheen, let me lift you up.. "


    He said while his eyes lingered on her. She could not refuse so she nodded.


    "Please, hold on to my shoulders."


    He said and his warm breath caressed her face.


    All of a sudden, she wanted to pull down his head and kiss him deeply just as she did a thousand times before. He was rightfully and legally hers and there should be no one else to savor his lips except her. She placed an arm above her shoulders but her whirlwind fantasies made her claw on his neck, instead. She may had closed her eyes but she knew that Ajie was feasting his eyes on her.


    "This way, Adrian. " Cherry''s voice broke into her reverie and before she knew it, Ajie placed her gently on her bed. He then removed her shoes and tucked her under the covers.


    "Miss Zheen, how about removing your covers so that your breathing wouldn''t be constricted?"


    Before she could muster an answer, Cherry''s voice over his shoulders saved her.


    "Leave her to me, Adrian. Just wait for me on the couch outside. "


    There was hesitation in Ajie''s expression but in the end, he still turned his back and went out. Allie heaved out a sigh as soon as he left. She could see that Cherry was also wondering why she was covering herself but just like Ajie, she also chose to keep her silence.


    "Thanks, Che. You may now leave me. " Her smile must had reflected in her eyes because Cherry also smiled back.


    "No, I would die in guilt if I will leave you here. " Cherry protested with a firm voice.


    "I''m already okay. " Allie insisted.


    "Zheen, may I ask a favor? Don''t say no, please. " She said while clasping her palms together, ignoring Allie''s last statement.


    "Can I just invite Adrian over to stay with us? It''s like this. We really didn''t expect that we would meet again this way. We were close friends way back in college so we have a lot to catch up but we cannot afford to leave you. "


    Seeing that she would less likely win the argument as this was also what she would do if she were in Cherry''s place, she agreed.


    "You may use the guestroom." She offered but her heart instantly bled. Would she just be listening to their moans and groans in the next room?


    "Whaaaat? No. We will just stay outside your bedroom and talk until morning before I''ll send him back to his hotel. "


    " But you can''t have your privacy. I know how you missed each other and I would understand if..."


    To her amazement, Cherry giggled.


    "Zheena, what are you talking about? We were just friends and we didn''t have any special relationship though our friendship meant a lot to me. "


    "Really? " Allie gaped in the revelation but thinking about those photos and videos, she couldn''t fully trust her words.


    "Yes. We would love it if you can join us. You also want to know my story, right? " Allie stared at her in disbelief. Did it mean that all her heartaches were unnecessary after all? What about the videos?


    "Okay but please help yourselves with the dinner. Just cook whatever you can find in the kitchen. " She completely conceded even if she was too afraid to witness their intimacies.


    "Thank you, Zheen. I love you. "


    Cherry jumped up for joy and then disappeared.


    Allie quickly stood up and changed into her home clothes but slipped into another trenchcoat to cover her whole body. She then peeped into her glass door to steal a glimpse of Ajie. And there she saw him leaning on the backrest with tired face, his leg crossed over the other. His eyes were closed and her hands folded over his head. Obviously, those five years of toil and hardwork had made his face and appearance look more matured than his actual age. But he still had that face which Mr. Lopez called as "every woman''s dream".


    After her dinner by the bed which Cherry brought her and theirs on her mini living room, the two started telling their stories from where they left each other almost six years ago.


    Ajie suggested that they should


    move to the coffee table so that they could still watch her. The table was situated by the window near and across her bedroom door giving her chance also to see and hear them very well.


    "Adrian, I wanna thank again Jeff''s dad for acting out the plan well. While the rescue team swarmed over the place to rescue me, they didn''t know that I was hiding in the cabin. No one suspected that a sack of sand dressed in a woman''s clothes was the dummy thrown instead into the sea..."

 Chapter 90 - Closer To The Truth 2

    Jeff was their band''s male lead vocalist who was replaced by Ajie way back in college. His father was the captain of a local merchant ship, the MV Helena. Through Jeff''s intervention, his father agreed to carry out the plan he suggested to terminate Cherry''s memory from her family and friends. He understood that the burden she was carrying at such a young age was too great for her to bear. Too great that it held a great possibility that she would be ruining her life instead. With the help of a loyal crew, the shout, "Man Overboard", rang through the walls of the vessel after that loud splash was heard. The plan was meticulously carried out that there was not a little suspicion or doubt after the investigation. Any act of carelessness would have lead to the ruin of the image of Jeff''s dad who maintained an outstanding reputation in his twenty years of service.


    Cherry was then lead out of the vessel towards the homeplace of Jeff somewhere in Mindoro. Having finally accepted for a job in Istanbul after many trials in online application during her last year in college, she left the home she owed a gratitude with after few months.


    "Jeff didn''t tell me where you went..."


    Ajie sadly said after recalling the event.


    "Because I told him not to. I deactivated all my social media accounts and together with my new life here, I buried Cherry''s memories in the pit of forgottenness. " Cherry then laughed with tears in her eyes and Ajie stood up and hugged her.


    Cherry cried for a long while in the shoulders of Ajie which made Allie uncomfortable. She also cried hard together with her, having known her story ahead, as she buried her sobs in her pillows. The truth behind her suicidal issue surprised her and she brooded at the fact that Ajie didn''t tell her about it anymore. It only showed that he really cared for Cherry more than her!


    "Shall we continue now? " Cherry said with a big grin as she looked up at Ajie after she calmed down.


    "You''re okay already? " He asked, patting her head before he went back to his seat across her.


    "Yes, " She paused for a while until Ajie settled comfortably in his seat. "Moving on, I worked as a marketing officer in Dream Builders, Inc. It''s where I met Zheena." She paused and glanced over at Allie in the room before she continued.


    "She applied as an agent of Rough Seas as her part - time job. Through a private chat, I learned that she''s also new in this country. She worked in Gretel Shipping Lines as a personnel manager and at the same time, a student in a university so she needed an extra income. " Cherry looked up at Andrew and she saw that glints of interest in his eyes, wanting to know more.


    "I helped her gain the approval of our departmental heads and many months later, she covered all the shipyards in Istanbul with the influence of Gretel Shipping Lines. When the demands of her expansion to other places got beyond her capacity to handle, she hired me. "


    "But just as our growth skyrocketed,


    Rough Seas announced their bankruptcy and so with the help of Sir Hayri, the company is now primarily owned by Zheena. "


    "As you have seen, we have covered the whole Europe as we attracted more investors. And now, we plan to expand in our country and to have you as our new investor for the Philippine market, caught me by surprise. "


    "You didn''t know about it? "Ajie asked him with disbelief in his eyes.


    "Zheena''s forte is to gain investors while I on the marketing side." Cherry ended her story with a pursed smile and a pause. "It''s your turn. "


    Ajie sighed deeply as he threw his gaze at Allie who was lying down in her head with the covers up to her eyes. He watched the rhythm of her breathing and when he saw that it was regular, he started his own storytelling.


    "I went back to Cebu and I almost lost hope in finding Allie back..."


    Ajie narrated his whole story of how he met Allie back in the hospital through his rescue of Mr. Lopez and down to how he also bumped into Andrew. He also told her about the diary and what he only read.


    Hearing back about it, Cherry laughed in shame and


    awkwardness. To avoid further discomfort, she then changed the topic.


    "I''m afraid Andrew had succeeded in taking revenge on you through Allie. It''s good to know that you found her again before everything got worst. "


    "Perhaps, he was suffering from a mild anxiety disorder because a normal human being with intact intellectual capacity wouldn''t act like he did. " Ajie replied sardonically as the memories of Andrew''s courtship on Allie flashed on.


    Cherry laughed out loud in response to Ajie''s presumption and when she finally stopped, she dismissed the topic. "Can we move on to another topic, please? "


    Ajie then went ahead and started talking about his studies in Japan, Allie''s disappearance and down to his abrupt return for the reason that he couldn''t allow his daughter to be left out by both parents. Of course, he didn''t mention about Allie''s main reason of running away. He also mentioned about Chloe''s psychological deficiencies and that a strong family support could help her improve.


    "I have filed for annulment already as suggested by Mr. Lopez. At first, the purpose is to let Allie come out wherever she was hiding but lately, as I''ve learned about Chloe''s deficiency, I have decided to pursue the annulment so that I can get married to Jane. "


    Cherry''s eyes widened in shock. She couldn''t believe that he would come to the extent of breaking his love and loyalty for her. As far as she had remembered, he was firm as a rock in his promises.


    "Adrian, I can''t believe it. I''m hurting for Allie. I just can''t forget how you placed her in a pedestal. " Cherry started crying again, being already sensitive after crying so much a while ago.


    "I never want to do it either but my daughter needs a mother image. I believe Jane can be a very good


    one. "


    "How about you as couple in the future? " Cherry asked, still in the state of disbelief. His marriage would never be successful in the absence of love and she was worried about it.


    " We have established a good friendship already and I even depend on her on many decisions that I make. So, it wouldn''t be a big deal. "


    Allie pulled up the cover over her head as she heard Adrian confirning his decision to Cherry. The real threat as of this moment, as she realized it, was no longer Cherry but Jane whom he had already shared a home. The pain crept up deeply and harshly again into her whole being and she started crying bitterly. It was too painful that she was almost tempted to wail at the top of her lungs. Then, in few minutes, she heard another bomb exploding right at the deepest recesses of her heart when Ajie spoke again.


    "I proposed to her already. " He said as he fixed his gaze on Cherry. "And during the launching of my cruise ship, we will be announcing our engagement. "

 Chapter 91 - Closer To The Truth 3

    The dawn of realization that she could no longer hold back the time from losing Ajie forever hit her hard. She had to act fast and set aside her humiliation and pride. The opportunity presented itself to her and she would be so stupid to let it slip from her grasp. Imagining the glory escaping from her the moment Ajie would proclaim to the world the fulfillment of his dream which she had shared before, hurt her beyond what she could endure. It hurt because in that inauguration where they first dreamed to celebrate together, the original plan would take a complete detour. The announcement of his remarriage would be the highlight instead and she couldn''t accept it. Running away for her life had suddenly lost its sense and in a wink of an eye, she wanted to die. She suddenly lost the courage to persevere and she lost the faith. All she wanted at the moment was to die.


    Thinking about all these, she forgot that she was not alone and she wailed in pain and bitterness. She folded her knees in a kneeling position and buried her face on the pillow. Ajie and Cherry ran to her side but none of them dared to disturb her.


    As her wailing intensified, Cherry hugged her tightly and gestured for Ajie to go out. She cried with her while wondering what were the wounds that Zheena were hiding. All she had known about her was her courage and determination and to see her crumbling like a sandcastle at that moment, surprised her.


    It took a long time for Allie to calm down and when she did, she smiled at Cherry and asked her to brew some tea on the kitchen. She wanted something hot on her stomach to ease her up. She then changed her head cover and face veil and prepared herself to come out and join them on the coffee table. She''d decided to strike while the iron was still hot! The calming effect of her tears made her gain the courage to fight back.


    Ajie and Cherry were surprised when she came out but no one dared to question her. Ajie quickly stood up to pull a chair for her and soon, they gathered around the coffee table. Cherry broke the silence first as she saw that Ajie got toungue - tied.


    "Zheen, I''m very worried about your sadness lately. You''re not like this. What''s happening? I am willing to listen. We are willing to listen. " Cherry said as he ran her eyes to Adrian, asking him silently to agree. Adrian, likewise, affirmed and encouraged Allie to vent out.


    "I also have my painful story just like the two of you. I''m sorry to have eavesdropped on your conversation. I got my quick punishment anyway when suddenly I am reminded of my own pain. " Her voice was hoarse already from so much crying but she was thankful of it. It would give her the favor of talking normally without being afraid of being caught.


    "It''s okay. " Allie could feel the intense gaze Ajie had on her as she stole a side glance towards him.


    "I got married at 21 and had a daughter. During that time, I offended someone from the elite society by exposing his illegal activities. I knew what I did from the start but I wanted an end to his evil deeds which ruined the lives of many. " Allie began, avoiding Ajie''s fiery gaze.


    "When I learned that I was already exposed and that his men started to hunt down on me, I ran away for my life. I don''t want to disappear forever, my family needs me. I just needed to die in their eyes so that they will be spared from my enemy''s wrath. I thought I am safe already but unfortunately, I fell on the enemy''s lair. "


    Cherry''s eyes constricted as she got puzzled by her figurative speech. She talked about something dangerous and it scared her. "Zheen, what do you mean? "


    "I cannot tell you as of this moment but I promise to tell you everything about it when the right time comes. "


    Cherry kept her silence as her eyes were nailed on Allie as she continued her story.


    "Che, you know how it hurts to live away from our family especially that I have a child. But it hurts more when you knew that the one who promised you a road to forever was cheating on you from the very start. And it feels like hell to know that after fighting to get out from the lion''s den, you''ll only hear that your husband is going to marry someone else. "


    With this, Allie buried her face with her hands as she began crying again. Since Ajie was the one sitting next to her, he stood up and cradled her in his arms.


    Though saddened by her story which in fact made her cry again, Cherry felt that something was odd in the intimate way Ajie hugged her and the way Zheena snuggled into his arms. There was no sense of awkwardness between them and it seemed that the act was very natural.


    "Zheen, I already know why you cried so hard when you heard Adrian''s story. There''s only one thing that made it different, he was not cheating on her wife. "


    Hearing Cherry''s comment, Zheena reluctantly pulled away from his arms. She missed it and dear heavens, she missed him so much! If only she was not hiding, she would grab the opportunity of staying there forever.


    "Che, I think Adrian needs a rest now so let''s take a rest for the night first and let''s talk more tomorrow. " Allie looked at her in an authoritative way and Cherry understood. She no longer replied to her latest comment.


    "Okay, Adrian. I''ll accompany you to your hotel. "


    "I''ll take both of you there since you''re not bringing your car along with you. "


    "But... "


    "No but... "


    With this, Allie led the way and the two followed, wondering how she suddenly got back her strength. The trip to the hotel was silent again but Allie broke it the moment they were already on the basement''s parking lot.


    "Che, I decided to book you a room so that you can guide Adrian in the morning. "


    Unfortunately, Cherry couldn''t be easily moved from her loyalty and she firmly refused. "No, Zheen. By hook or by crook, I''ll stay with you. "


    "Okay, then. Both of us will stay. " Allie raised up both of her hands in surrender and Cherry hugged her in happiness. Allie was also moved by her display of loyalty. She was right after all in choosing to trust her. She was a true friend after all.


    ___


    After wishing good night to each other, they parted ways. Ajie went to his room and the women went to the next room Allie had booked.


    Due to the stress of the travel and the long day he had spent with the women, Ajie drifted off to sleep quickly after taking a hot shower. But some time before day break, he was awaken by the numbness of his upper arm and a weight over his chest.

 Chapter 92 - Finally, The Truth

    Ajie got startled when he realized someone was sleeping in his arm. He could not see the face since the quilt was pulled over the head. He quickly tugged down the cover and his heartbeat thumped faster.He raised his head and looked into her face which was buried into his chest. In that very moment, his heartbeat stopped and the world seemed to stop rotating on its axis.


    He saw the angelic face and her slender arms hugging tightly into his waist and chest. He looked around and his attention was caught by the neatly folded trench coat and two smaller pieces of clothes in the bedside table which he clearly remembered being worn by her. Dear heavens, it was really her, the sleepmate he had longed so much to be with again!


    He got so overjoyed that he pulled her closer to himself for a long while. He felt tickled in his joy and he wanted to laugh out loudly and twirl her around. He lifted her arm out from his waist but the more she snuggled closer to him, as if afraid to be parted away. In his excitement, he pushed her away from him with force then he quickly rolled over to kiss her hungrily. She struggled to free herself when she got out of breath and he reluctantly released her. The moment he drew few inches away from her face and looked into her eyes, her beautiful smile which held a power to ease out his pain and grief , met his own. He just felt her heart leapt out from his chest!


    "Adrian! " Tears flowed instantly in the corners of her eyes as she encircled her arms around his neck, returning his kiss as intensely as he did.


    While he allowed her to kiss him hardly, his thoughts went back to the time when Zheena requested to accept her in her social media account. How she easily gained his trust and became his chatmate. How fondly she talked about his daughter and never about flirting with him.


    He also recalled his confession about his plan for marriage annulment and his plan to remarry with Jane. His heart then broke to realize how much those facts must had hurt her. That''s perhaps why she hyperventilated when she heard the conversation he had with Cherry. That''s perhaps why she wailed bitterly when he repeated the same confession to her. And that''s why she covered herself because she must have misinterpreted his sweet words yesterday with her friend.


    Her body frame , when he first saw her behind her desk, was already familiar. He was even almost tempted to pull her hijab and her face veil away to confirm his speculation. When he held her in his arms in that moment when he took her out of her office, he was drawn to her familiar scent. The way she clung to his chest and neck when he lifted her towards her room and the way she snuggled into his embrace, brought back those memories Allie had held him in the past. If not for her new name, he wouldn''t have been able to hold back his curiousity. Everything about her, especially the warmth of her gaze, spoke about his wife.


    His regrets and guilt for hurting her was pressing on him hardly and he didn''t realized that his tears were already streaming down his face. Allie licked it away and hugged him again tightly.


    "I miss you so much, Adrian. " He heard her murmur into his ears and the more he felt his heart was pricked. He knew very well, that if she was given the choice, she wouldn''t have left their child. He witnessed her sorrows when Chloe was in those critical moments and she was even stubborn when he suggested to feed her with milk formula. His intention was only to lessen her stress in coping up with her other activities and at the same time, her breastfeeding schedules which she had to catch up in time.


    He could only imagine how her heart had been shattered the moment she left her. How her heart had been crushed when he told her about Chloe''s deficiency and her need of a mother image.


    With an equally heavy heart, he kissed her gently again hoping that in this way, he could kiss her pain away and she could feel how sorry he was.


    " Allie, I miss you so much more. "


    He whispered as saying it loudly would break away the barrier of the barrels of tears he was trying so hard to hold back.


    "Kiss me, Adrian, and take me now before you celebrate your freedom. I want to have my best memories of you before you will marry Jane."


    "Allie... " He wanted to protest but she sealed his lips savagely and in desperation as she rolled his back imto the bed.


    Without leaving his lips, he pulled over his shirt, only stopping when she had to pull it out from his head. With tears choking down his throat because of the pain of what she said, he allowed her freely in roaming her mouth and lips all over his body. However, he did not feel that in what she did, there was sexual passion but instead, there was despair and goodbye.


    When he couldn''t take it anymore, he pushed her down on the bed and he cried hard. "I promised to love only you, Allie, and I swore to remain true to it. However, you also know that this decision was reached because our daughter needs a mother. " He spoke in between his sobs.


    "Please wait for me. I will come back as soon as my way is clear. Believe me, I''m working it out. "He heard her beg and the more his heart was squeezed in pity.


    When he was not able to reply right away because of sobbing, she hugged him again tightly. "I love you so much, Jie, and it is always you. "


    He sobbed harder and he hugged her back. "I''m sorry for making you think I don''t love you anymore. It''s also always you, my dear. " He tried to assure her, hoping she would be comforted.


    After a long while of just hugging each other, he broke their silence. "Can I take you again without thinking that you will lose me?"


    His heart sank back when he saw her trusting smile and when she held both of his hands and pull it towards the tie of her robe. She held his nape with both of her hands, kissing him as he tugged out the ribbon tie which locked her night wrap. His hands then began to wander passionately on that very familiar routes which his mouth and hands had missed for more than five long years. He traced her inch by inch, familiarizing the contour of her naked self again. When he finally entered into her depths, she screamed in pain and pushed him away.


    "Why? " He asked as he saw her wincing in pain.


    "Have you forgotten? It''s almost six years already. "


    He laughed softly when he understood and did it more gently this time. He took her again and again the whole time until his shaking knees and thighs refused.

 Chapter 93 - Go Home With Me

    "Go home with me. " Ajie said while stroking Allie''s hair as she lay down in his arm. "I have always wished to go home everyday seeing you and Chloe. You don''t need to work anymore. I have achieved the dream we shared together. "


    "Allie, I want to celebrate the ceremonial ship launching with you.


    Just as we had dreamed about it. "


    Allie''s eyes suddenly misted up. Their time together as a married couple had been very short. " I will be there on YOUR launching, Adrian, but you know I can''t go home yet with you. "


    "OUR launching, Allie, not mine alone. "


    Allie started to cry as this touched her so deeply. Even in her absence, Ajie thought about her and honored his word to celebrate his victory with her. He truly cared for her and she was wrong in doubting him.


    Ajie sat up and lifted her up as well and seated her next to him while they both leaned on the headboard. As he realized she had nothing on, he pulled up the cover up to her shoulders to shield her from the cold. He then placed her head gently on his chest as she went on crying.


    "I''m a prisoner, Jie. If you remember when I said that I ran into the enemy''s lair, instead. "


    Right! Ajie instantly froze when he remembered it. All of a sudden, all those things which Mr. Lopez and Jane told him about Louise flowed out vividly into his mind.


    "Son, I forgot to tell you that your competitor is a woman whom Louise adores. " He heard Mr. Lopez again in his mind as he informed him about the launching of the world''s second largest ship.


    "Louise is in love..." Jane''s voice seemed to ring also in his ears.


    "I never expect that this Rina DK, Inc. is established by Louise himself. What also surprised me is the fact that he took over his father''s business. All because of a woman he adores. " He winced in pain as the truth about that woman unfolded in his mind.


    Cherry''s innocent blabberings also gave way to the truth. The fear and respect she obviously afforded Loiuse. Her careless mention of his authority over Zheena and the special relationship they seemed to have.


    "Zheen, shall I inform Mr. Dioko about you? "


    "With the help of Mr. Hayri, Zheena becomes the primary owner of Rough Seas... with the influence of Mr. Hayri... "


    Ajie''s expression changed as his thoughts began gathering up the pieces together. His eyes darkened as he gazed into the pitiful sight of her, bawling her eyes out in his chest. He wanted to confront her but was afraid that his agression would only create a rift between them. They had just met again and he didn''t wish to spoil it. He wanted to give her the chance to speak up.


    "Tell me all about it, I''m going to listen. " He urged her on, trying his very best to stay calm.


    "Will you understand me? "She looked up to him like a spotless lamb, ready for its slaughter.


    "I will try to. " He did not promise what he couldn''t seem to do at the moment. Inwardly, a sense of jealousy was already steaming up.


    Without waiting for a firm assurance, Allie began the proclamation of an ordeal - like truth in Ajie''s ears.


    "Black Logo changed my identity and so I was able to run away here. Only to find out that the company who offered me the job was owned by Mr. Dioko''s son himself, who is also called Hayri as his Turkish name. "


    "Due to the tension of being under General Alfonso''s surveilance, he fled here, supposedly until the issues will die down, pointing him as the mastermind of that torturing sessions in Kamelyo. You know the rest of the story..." She said as she looked up, obviously observing his reaction.


    "Because of my interest in understanding this business and understanding more about your dream, I requested the company to grant me the opportunity to study while working. They accepted it with the condition that I would stay with Hayri in their office home and go to the university with him. The second condition is my contribution to the growth of the company. I promised to design superyachts for them. "


    She looked down after saying this, ashamed in the fact that she would be helping his enemy instead of her own husband. She knew that Ajie would also be hurt by this but this was the only way she knew she could somehow pay the damage she caused to Hayri and his father.


    "I''m really sorry, Jie. " Ajie just patted her head, digesting first the truth of her contribution to the company.


    "Your competitor is a woman. " As this thougt played on his mind, his expression turned sour that his competitor was not just a woman but his wife. Perhaps, that was the reason why he seemed to be uncomfortable the moment he knew about it.


    Nevertheless, Ajie understood that she perhaps had presumed desperately that this contribution which she said, would quell Hayri''s anger towards her. She perhaps thought that the glory she would bring to their business would be a way to let them feel indebted to her and so they would put an end to their pursuit for her life. He felt a great sense of pity for her in the knowledge that she was willing to sacrifice her own accomplishments in order to pay for her sin.


    But then Ajie thought about the other condition and he snapped in restrained anger as the truth about their ''living together'' sank in. He coudn''t seem to imagine its possible outcome, the temptation of two opposite sexes staying under the same roof.


    "You''re living together? " His voice was a little raised and rough.


    "Jie, you were there unexpectedly in my room and you know we''re not sharing a bed. "


    " Tell me, Allyza, are you into a special relationship? Cherry made it sound yesterday that he has an authority over you. "


    "No, but he said he loves me, Adrian. And I know he mean it. He courted me within these years and treated me as his priceless possesion. He gives me everything a woman can materially yearn for but believe me, it''s only you in my heart."


    Ajie felt like he was stabbed with a sharp object and suddenly, his breathing became shallow. But he knew he had to stretch his understanding a little longer.


    "Then go home with me. I will talk to Joshua and ask him to save all the evidences against him. I will protect you myself and I will sue him. "


    Allie suddenly got scared. She couldn''t allow it...

 Chapter 94 - Two Naked Bodies

    Joshua was Hayri''s most trusted team leader he assigned in hunting her down. Oblivious to him, he happened to be her first cousin who probably made ways to divert their search farther from the perimeter of their target. But she also knew that he couldn''t always succeed in making detours of their search forever because he had a team who also worked independently due to the cash reward which their boss promised to them.


    Allie suddenly got scared at Ajie''s decision to sue him because the evidences were very strong. Joshua could always volunteer to be a state witness that would put a complete end to Hayri''s future.


    Though she was constantly fearing for her life in the hands of Hayri but she couldn''t allow Ajie to harm him. Hayri didn''t do her any harm. He even sincerely loved her and she wanted him to reciprocate it, not by her affection, but by instilling in his mind the sense of freedom. Freedom from his anger towards her and the PDEA, freedom from his agression to take revenge and freedom from the stigma of all the crimes the nature of his father''s illegal business had exposed him to. She sincerely desired him to soar up high like an eagle in the vast skies and achieve a much better name in the business industry far more than what his father had achieved. She wanted to see him successful and free and not with the binds or chains.


    "Nooo, please, Adrian. Hayri has been so good to me. He highly respected me as Zheena though I''m not sure how he would turn out to be when he would finally know the truth. If after this he would still seek out for revenge, then that''s the time we can go against him. "


    "Please, consider also that I have caused them a great damage and I want to make it up in a good way. " Ajie was hurt by this. She defended him!


    "In what way, Allyza? " Ajie almost voiced out his conclusion that the only good way she could think of was through the use of her heart and her body.


    "Adrian, trust me. Let me work out on this. Please, don''t spoil out the effort I have started five years ago to solve this problem. "


    "I''m almost coming home. And I promise to be there to celebrate with you. "


    Ajie heaved out a deep sigh as he tried to rule out his temperance on this matter. He seemed to feel that every tissues of his body was experiencing fine tremors due to his effort in holding back his anger. Allie was right. Though it seemed so hard for him to imagine that nothing happened between them, he had to believe her. He knew he could trust her though he couldn''t count on that man. How could he? He knew him to be a spoiled brat and an extremely aggressive person judging by his revenge for his father. His father whom he knew, in the first place, to deserve such punishment. On top of it, Allie was like a red and delicious apple, a temptation in any man''s eyes.


    He gazed at her face and his face reddened in the thought of how Hayri must had feasted his eyes on her for more than five years already. Though, it turned out to be a struggle for him to eliminate those malicious thoughts in his mind, yet, he knew that the right thing to do at that moment, was to swallow up his doubts.


    Allie gazed up at him with those eyes of hers that begged for his understanding and so he melted out like a candle againts a weak flame.


    He held her nape and tilted her chin, burying his repressed pain in the depths of her mouth. The embers of carnal desire lit up again into a great fire and so they were lost again in the frenzy of wanting each other more. They did not notice that the ringing of their phones died out in the loudness of their unrestrained moans and groans.


    ___


    Cherry had almost gone crazy when she woke up in the morning without Zheena in her side. She called her up many times but her calls were not picked up. She went to check her car, thinking that she may had gone home but it was still on the basement. Still finding no clue, she went to check her in her home and in the office, but still she was not around.


    Thinking about her breathing diffculty yesterday, she felt her brain had almost jumped out of her skull because of fear.


    She thought of Adrian. Perhaps, they had agreed to take breakfast together. She looked for them in the restaurant but they were not there. Perhaps, on a coffee shop, but still she failed. She tried to call him but just like Zheena''s, it was neither picked up. She tried everywhere possible but still, she was unsuccessful. She called on his room number, but she was only picked up by an answering machine.


    She finally went to the receptionist and presented her worries.


    "What do you wish to suggest, ma''am? " The receptionist in her beautiful smile waited for her answer, not realizing the glower on her face for asking such a stupid question.


    "Miss, we have no choice but to open the door. It''s already two in the aftenoon and it''s impossible that our guest would not wake up. He came all the way here for the business meeting and to ''not show up'' means something must have happened. "


    "We want to be out of this, ma''am. If you want, I''ll give you a swipe card. "


    "Great. Thank you, miss. " She left, wondering in anger if what this receptionist did was in accordance to her training for proper security measures.


    If only she had wings, she would fly towards his room. She couldn''t almost contain her fear and worries.


    Standing at the door, she thought of doing a multi - task at a time. She needed another help and there was one person which came up to her mind. She pulled out his phone and called him up.


    "Sir Dioko, has Ma''am Zheena called you up? "


    Hayri must had said he hadn''t and she right away replied. "She''s lost. "


    Ending up the call without waiting for his reply, she opened the door. Heartbeats accelerating, she rushed towards the bedroom with her heart in her throat, only to find two naked bodies in a heated fight...


    .

 Chapter 95 - The Truth Behind the Video

    Cherry heaved out a startled gasp as those two objects of her search operation were finally found. She wanted to run away but her shock on what she had just seen, pinned her from where she stood. She covered her mouth as she almost squealed when he saw Adrian moving up and down on top of Zheena as he intermittently claimed her lips. Though half of their bodies were covered with a sheet, their upper bodies were exposed and she could clearly see Zheena''s bear chest.


    In the midst of Allie''s unrestrained moans, she caught a glimpse of Cherry in her peripheral vision. She tried to push him away but he sealed her lips instead as the rhythm of his movement became faster. Casting her shame aside, she ignored her and pretended she had not seen anyone. She was already carried out at the peak of their ride to the moon and she just also couldn''t stop.


    When they both finally achieved the height and stayed there for a while, she held Ajie''s back, preventing him to pull out. She drew up the sheet to cover themselves and she giggled.


    "You don''t want me to stop? Just let me rest for a while to gather enough strength. " He stammered, in between his breath.


    She pulled out his head towards her and whispered in his ear. "Cherry''s watching us! "


    Grabbing his chance to prove it to her that he had no affair with Cherry, he kissed her passionately again. "Don''t let me stop. I had been in a fast for almost six years now. "


    "Really? " She asked as her thoughts went up to Jane.


    "How about Jane? " She pouted in pain as her jealousy hit her again.


    "Why don''t you trust me? Did I not tell you this? There is only you in my heart since the day we meet. "


    "Promise? "


    "Of course, my love. Come home with me and you will know that I never betrayed you. "


    "You proposed to her. So is it not expected that you also did it with her? " She gathered all her courage to confront him, now that she had started it.


    "My goodness. Please don''t accuse me of something I did not do. I would like to return you the question. Don''t you do it also with him? " He had already lost his grip in holding back his need to know the truth.


    "Adrian, I don''t like it that you''re thinking that I''m cheating on you. "


    " Same with the thought that you are accusing me." He chuckled as he somehow retaliated unintentionally.


    "You proved it last night that I didn''t, did you? "


    "Okay, there''s no point arguing after a fullfilling lovemaking. "


    Ajie then turned sideways and saw Cherry standing with a blank stare, still in shock. "Che..."


    Cherry still did not move and remained staring at them. "Che? " Ajie called out again but then she saw her trembling in place.


    "What''s happening? " Ajie pulled out a towel nearby, wrapped himself then quickly disappeared into the bathroom to change. In less than three minutes, he was back with a pair of white shirt and pajamas.


    He held her arm and gently sat her down in a couch. Allie got the chance to have a quick shower before she was back with a robe.


    After some time, Cherry finally calmed down and she apologized. Alie was already sitting across them.


    "I''m sorry, Adrian! I remember that feeling when I caught mom in bed with Andrew. " She explained, her hands still shaking.


    "Because you think we''re cheating? "


    Ajie said, confirming her suspicion.


    "Yes. " She exhaled with a deep sigh before she continued. "I''m almost out of my mind looking for both of you, especially Zheena. To see her doing it with you made me think she''s cheating on Sir Dioko. " She started crying loudly already as she explained. "I, somehow, felt his pain just as how I felt it when I saw my own mom having sex with my boyfriend. "


    "I am Allie, Che. As I had told you, I ran away from a somebody in the society who,until now, seeks for my life. That happens to be Hayri. I change my identity and that''s why he do not suspect me. Fortunately, I am well protected and the evidences against me are all deleted. I still don''t know how far I can be free but I am. working on it. "


    Cherry looked at her in surprise and disbelief as Allie explained everything to her. "Do you get me, Che? "


    Cherry nodded in agreement. " I can''t believe you also undergo a tough life, Zheen. I thought it''s only me. "


    " Each of us has our sad and painful stories to tell. " She smiled at her to somehow comfort her with the fact that she was not alone in life''s different types of ordeal.


    Ajie then interrupted. "Che, I hope you can help us cover up for Allie."


    "No need to tell me about it, Adrian. And by the way, I''m so sorry for disturbing. "


    Adrain laughed out loudly, poked Allie''s nose with no sense of awkwardness at all. " No worries, Che. We''ve just wrapped up for our ''nth round''. "


    Allie twisted his side hardly in her shame and disappointment. He squealed in pain but giggled afterwards. "What is there to be ashamed of? I also caught her many times before, doing it with Andrew. "


    "Whaaaat? " Allie squinted as if the revelation blinded her from the glaring rays of the sun.


    "Andrew was, perhaps, a real psychotic. Whenever he was jealous with Adrian, he always tricked him to come in the midst of our activity, pretending we got into an emergency such as ''penis captivus'', severe vaginal bleeding or that he felt like fainting. "


    Penis captivus is a condition wherein a woman''s vaginal muscles suddenly clamp up a penis tightly during an intercourse, making it impossible to pull out.


    Allie gaped in surprise. "How shameful of him! He must be very insecured. "


    "That''s why I''m fed up. If not for Adrian who helped me with the plan, I could have ended my life. "


    "Then why did you consented to do sex with him if he''s that despicable? " Allie was already wondering if she was a masochist.


    "Because he threatened me to spread out a sex video of me and Adrian. "


    "What? " She felt her world had crumbled down. Was it the same video which shattered her heart a million times already?


    In everyday that she was thinking about it, she would always end up crying, even in a middle of a class discussion or with a client in her office. Before a tear could slide up in her eyes, Ajie pulled her into a warm embrace. "Listen first. "

 Chapter 96 - The Truth Behind The Video 2

    "Don''t get me wrong, Zheen. Andrew has really something in his head. He recorded scenes of me and Adrian during our music video recording. We were featuring a love song I personally write so there were flashes of bed and kissing scenes as suggested by the director. He edited those trial takes that we had and made it appear like we really did it. "


    " Of course, the video would surely go viral and it would be impossible for me to explain the truth to everyone."


    Then, she reluctantly added. " The stigma of my mother''s deed had already affected me so terribly. I didn''t want to add it on the shame I was already struggling to endure. "


    Allie hurriedly stood up and went inside the bedroom to pick up her phone. Ajie stood up to follow her, too worried that they were misunderstood. Seeing that she came back right away, he sighed in relief.


    She then opened the video that Andrew sent him five years ago and showed it to them.


    "That video broke my heart into pieces until yesterday. " She said, giving them a weak and sad smile.


    Ajie and Cherry recognized it right away. They stared at each other and the odd behavior of Allie yesterday flashed before them and they now understood why.That also explained why she said that her husband was cheating on her.


    "That psychotic! I''ll really crush him into pieces if I see him again! " Ajie exclaimed angrily while all those detestable things he did flowed back into his mind.


    "He really was the great mistake that happened to my life. So ashamed of him. " Cherry''s eyeballs almost puffed out in anger.


    Looking pitifully at Allie now, thinking how it intensified her miseries, he hugged her again. "I''m sorry, dear, that I have not been able to protect you from him. Next time, please tell me everything. Should I remind you always that communication is the key to a successful relationship? "


    Ajie''s words fell like an acid into her heart, making her cry hard in his comforting embrace, feeling relieved by the burden she had been trying hard to endure for years. She knew there was no one else to blame for it but her. She had kept too many things to herself, defeated by too many of her unfounded fears.


    Indulging in the comfort of being cared and understood, of being in the arms of someone she had been longing for so long to be held again, it took long for Allie to stop crying.


    Somehow, Ajie noticed that Cherry looked restless again and that she kept on glancing towards Allie. "What''s wrong again, Che? "


    Allie immediately sat up, alarmed by Ajie''s concern. Her thoughts immediately went wild in guessing what could be wrong again with Cherry.


    "Che? Tell us what is it. " Allie urged her on, seeing that deepening restlessness and guilty expression she displayed.


    "Zheen, what shall we do? I had called up Sir Hayri and informed him that you were lost. " She confessed, her face reflected her fear for acting out recklessly.


    "Calm down, Che. We''ll think of a way. "


    Ajie shook his head in anger and frustration in the fact that they seemed to act like hiding criminals. He felt useless, as a husband, who could supposedly be her protector.


    "Get up, Zheen, and change. We''ll go to the next city and pretend that we are on a date. "


    Allie''s eyes lit up. She still wanted to enjoy a night with her husband before Hayri would come back in the morning.


    "Good idea, Che, but I have to call him up so that he won''t catch for the next plane just to turn upside down the whole city of Istanbul to find me."


    A glint of pain registered instantly in Ajie''s eyes. She was his wife but it seemed Hayri owned her and took up his place in caring and protecting her. "Is that how he loves you? "


    Allie saw the pain and she pulled his head and kissed his eyes. "I would be lying if I''d say no. He cared for me so much that he won''t even allow me to go anywhere without him. "


    "It hurts, you know. "Ajie looked away and Cherry began crying. She was a witness to how Hayri cared for her.


    "I didn''t want this to happen, Jie. Just please give me a little time. "


    She was about to throw herself back at him but Cherry stopped him.


    "Zheen, hurry up. Sir Hayri is calling me now. " Cherry showed her the incoming call displaying in her phone.


    "Let me answer it. "


    Cherry handed her the phone and Allie immediately hit the accept button and turned the speaker on.


    "Hayri..."


    "Zheena! Where have you been? You''re scaring me to death! "


    " I just went out to the mall and left my phone because I''m charging it. "


    " Are you sure? "


    "Hayri, you worry so much. I''m not a child anymore. "


    "Okay, then. Can''t wait to see you tonight. "


    Allie looked up worriedly to the two who were watching and listening to them.


    "Hayri, I and Cherry are going out with her friend so I won''t be home tonight. "


    Hayri seemed reluctant in letting her go but gave way in the end. "Okay, then but I''ll fetch you in the morning."


    "I''m bringing my car and Zheena is with me. "


    "I can''t wait to see you again, you know that. "


    "Let''s talk again in the morning. Bye, then. Take care. "


    "Okay, take care as well...Zheen? "


    "Yes? "


    " I love you and missed you so much. "


    "Thank you. "


    When Allie hang up, Ajie''s face already looked like a crumpled paper. Allie suddenly did not know how to appease him.


    "Adrian, do you love me enough to be able to trust me? "


    "Allie, I can''t help it. I feel so bad. " He pouted and his mood became terrifying. All of a sudden, he wanted to send everything in the room flying out of the window.


    "Now, you understand how it kills me when I learned about your plan to remarry. "


    "It''s a blessing in disguise. If not because of it, you couldn''t have the courage to reveal yourself. "His voice was already raised up, scaring Allie to her core.


    Somehow, Allie got amused at the thought of it. Such were the ironies of life. Some decisions have to be faced with threats before one can take an action in regards to it.


    "I love you, Adrian, sooo much! " With this, she pulled down his face and began kissing him.


    Somehow, Ajie''s heart was like a cotton, easily softening out to her sweetness. Lost in paradise which only the two of them had explored, a voice behind them suddenly put them to a halt.


    "Stop it! "

 Chapter 97 - Sounds Familiar

    "Stop! "


    "Zheena, don''t you want to spend the night with your husband? Do that later. Hurry up or you can''t pick up some clothes at home anymore. " Cherry urged them to start their escapade with those annoyed look.


    The two long lost lovers giggled as they reluctantly parted. While changing into new set of clothes, Cherry booked them a hotel suite with a seafront view. She chose the one with two connected rooms so that the two could have a privacy and she would not necessarily book another room for her. In case Hayri would spy on them, the fact that there were three of them in a room, would likely spare them from his suspicion.


    Soon after that, they were already inside their suite wherein its floor-to-ceiling glass windows gave them the splendid view of the sun on top of the sky, the sparkling blue sea and the green island which outlined the horizon.


    Allie stood up by the window and watch the magnificence of the silent world in front of her. Ajie then approached her and hugged her from the back.


    "How I wish we could be free and I could hold you like this anywhere."


    Ajie started to vent out his laments on their fate.


    "Feel free to do anything anywhere inside this suite. I will be locking up in my room the whole time. " Cherry rolled out her eyes on Ajie who grinned widely at her announcement.


    Zheena giggled at this, thankful of her generousity to provide them the freedom of their short - lived enjoyment.


    "Shall we start? " His eyes flickered with desire as he looked at her from above her head.


    "Start what? " Allie''s brows narrowed, unable to grasp his intention.


    "Start on what Cherry suggested." Before Allie could answer, she was already lifted up into the air and was placed down in the middle of a large bed.


    Without delay, he started again his long, craved - out rituals while catching up on the things they both missed out in those long, five years.


    What''s being unique about them was that they could talk out normally in the middle of their most treasured marital activity. In fact, their best conversations were those that were being carried out in bed, pausing only when the flames they both lit up in themselves were about to explode until it would die out temporarily. They could stay like that for long hours, talking and caressing each other until they would be again heated up.


    Early the next morning, they got up with heavy hearts because after their breakfast, Ajie would then be leaving. To maximize the time to be alone, they had their breakfast in their small dining table, just enough for the three of them.


    To divert the sad atmosphere into a lighter air, Cherry touched up on business, completing their missed out details due to Allie''s hyperventilation.


    "Don''t worry, Che! I''ll keep in touch. This is my wife''s business so I will surely take this seriously. I can always visit here every now and then. "


    Just as they were about to wrap up, Allie''s phone rang. And as expected, it was Hayri, announcing that he cancelled off his flight last night and would be arriving in two hours.


    "Call me again once you will arrive. Were going somewhere so I couldn''t tell where exactly I will be at that time. " Allie kept on stealing glances at Ajie the whole time she was answering Hayri. She hated the feeling of seeing him hurting.


    "Adrian, just a little more patience. After our graduation, I will be going home. I will be there on the ship launching. " She coaxed him up like a sulking child, placing both of her palms in chest while looking pitifully at him.


    "Aren''t you going to invite me? " He said in a mixed emotion of sadness and jealousy.


    "I want to but I can''t. I don''t want to hurt you on that day. Hayri will also be celebrating it. " Her tears had started to escape from her eyes and Ajie couldn''t stand it. So, despite the pain it brought him, he still gathered her to his arms and let her feel that he understood.


    ___


    Arriving an hour earlier than the allowable time to check in, the three stayed at a coffee shop inside the airport. To avoid suspicion, Ajie sat beside Cherry while Allie sat across him, holding his hands under the table. Cherry tried hard to bring out humorous topics because she was sure, Allie wouldn''t be able to hold back herself. The airport is the loneliest place for those who leave and those being left while it is the opposite for those who are reunited.


    "Zheen! Cherry! " A familiar voice coming from the lobby''s side startled them.


    Hayri bent down to kiss Cherry''s cheek first to acknowledge her presence and for his respect on her as Allie''s bestfriend. Anticipating she would be the next, Allie glanced up sideways, ready to kiss him on the cheek. However, to her guilt and annoyance, Hayri angled out his face and kissed her on the lips!


    In her shock, her eyes widened but she was not able to react right away.


    She stole a glance at Ajie and his eyes seemed to emit fire and brimstone already. Before she could push Hayri out, he straightened up and sat beside her. Cherry started to feel uneasy for both of them but Hayri seemed to be insensible of their reactions.


    "I miss you so much, babe! " Hayri looked at Allie tenderly and those beautiful eyes of him spoke of how honestly he missed her.


    Allie sighed slowly and deeply, calming out her fears that Ajie might not be able to keep his rising temper.


    "How did you know I''m here?"


    "Through mental telepathy. " He chuckled softly before he corrected his statement. " I checked your location the moment we landed. "


    Hayri then looked up and nodded at Ajie while simultaneously extending a hand at him.


    "Please pardon my disturbance. " I am Hayri Dioko, a friend of these two ladies. "


    With a long stretch of a repressed anger, he answered. "I''m.. "


    "He''s Adrian Gonzaga, my bestfriend. " Cherry butted in before Ajie could even start his introduction. "


    Hayri seemed to be in a deep thought before he commented.


    "Sounds familiar! "

 Chapter 98 - The Beautiful Witch

    Dear followers,


    I am sorry for the delay of this book''s updates. I am tempted to join a contest, not aiming to win, but shamelessly hoping to be read widely as a new writer. I did not have formal education in writing but I know from the very start that this is my passion.


    The new story I am writing is titled, "The Beautiful Witch". This would just be short, about ten to twenty chapters only. Nevertheless, I would still be updating this book at one chapter a day.


    I wish you will also support me in this with your reviews, votes, comments and rates. This will make me so happy.


    This is going to be a very different plot. There would be touches of horror and suspense, a totally different imageries from what I am being used to write.


    Loving you all,


    gents46/babyljaie46


    THE SYNOPSIS


    Seeing herself in a full - length mirror in a beautiful wedding gown, Kaitlyn''s thoughts flew off to the warning their gardener gave her. What he said flowed out vividly into her mind and all of a sudden, she got scared. Her marriage to a man her parents had arranged for her would give way to the revenge her groom''s parents had plotted long ago for their family.


    In that last minute before she would go down to the waiting bridal car, she made up her mind. She couldn''t allow herself to be trapped in a living hell, much more to a loveless marriage.


    For some reasons only her parents knew , they refused to let her meet him prior to the wedding. What if he got an ugly looks which would become a nightmare in her sleep? What if he got those horrible physical attributes she would later find difficult to digest?


    Running towards the exit door of their house, she slid inside a huge garbage can and allowed herself to be brought to Mount Maria.


    Days passed and soon rumors had it that a new witch had resided in the mount, scaring all the villagers with her appearances.


    What had become of Kaitlyn? Had she really turned into a witch?


    Had she turned into one of the supernatural dwellers of the mount?


    Troubled by her scary presence which already affected their daily activities, the people gathered to look for a volunteer who would be brave enough to face her.


    To their surprise, Dr. Michael, the new village doctor assigned to their district took up the courage to go up and kill her!

 Chapter 99 - Just Like Bubbles

    Ajie gave Hayri a gentle stare, pretending he was surprised. " Yes, many of us share the same name. "


    Hayri shook his head. "Perhaps but last night, I happened to read a Forbes.. The Communication department of AJ&J Builders has officially announced the date of the ceremonial launching of their new cruise ship as designed by Adrian Gonzaga. Uncle Angelo confirmed to me also. "


    Allie''s face instantly lit up. She was too proud to know that Adrian''s name was already proclaimed to the world. She wanted to congratulate him but when she saw his blunt expression, she instantly cringed back. Hayri noticed her excitement and he casually clawed an arm around her shoulders and pulled her closer to him.


    "What is it, dear? "His smile was warm and tender, reflecting the depths of love he had for her.


    Allie looked down hurriedly as she saw Ajie glowering at both of them. To her surprise, he didn''t walk out but, instead, played along.


    "I just did not expect it to be so soon. There''s the validation process, approval and everything..." Ajie patiently answered him while sparing Allie a glance.


    Hayri lit up in honest fascination and excitement. "So, you''re really the new rising star of the marine industry! Congratulations... " Hayri gave out a happy smile as he extended a hand towards Ajie.


    "Thank you. " Ajie also smiled back, shook his hand with him and looked through the depths of his


    personality.


    Hayri''s outward features, as he observed, reflected the racial mixture of Turkish and Filipino blood, making him undeniably stunning. And due to his height and lean built, he looked far more mature than Allie, and perhaps, also him. Anyone who would see them as sweet as now, would surely say that they were such a beautiful pair. And this realization, on top of Hayri''s display of affection, crushed his heart in so much pain.


    He wanted to tell Hayri that he also knew about his coming ship launching. He suddenly realized why Allie had not mentioned about it. Of all those things they talked about in bed, did not include this explosive one. Then, in a wink of an eye, he snapped in the conclusion that the reason she hid it from him was because it was something that would aggravate his pain.


    Rina DK Builders, Inc , as he just realized it, was a combination of the last syllables of their two names, and DK was the initials of their last names.


    Terribly stung by this realization, he could not imagine how Allie was able to betray him. How was she able to build their own dreams with another man? The concept of ship building was supposedly theirs alone and how could she share it with Hayri instead?


    Not only that, she claimed to be his and his alone but how could she allow herself to be kissed and hugged, not only in front of some other people, but also in front of him? It was not only a mere friendly kiss, but a kiss only lovers would do.


    Before he would break down and lose his self - control, he looked at Cherry, whom he knew, was also observing him.


    "Che, I need to go. " His eyes instantly turned red as that look sought for her understanding that he had to go before he''d break down in an excruciating pain.


    He stood up and Cherry quickly did the same, throwing herself at him as she instantly cried loudly, venting out those welling emotion which Ajie could not. Ajie gathered her in his arms, grateful to have found a friend who understood the language of his soul which his words could not. Riding on through the pretense of her tears, his shoulders began to move as he finally released the choking baggage inside his heart.


    For who knew how long, Adrian eventually released her. Without turning back for a last look nor bidding goodbye to Allie , neither at least, giving a respect to Hayri, he swiftly left, dragging his two luggages behind.


    Allie, who was silently crying in her seat for being obviously misunderstood, watched him as he quickly disappeared into the thick crowd of sprinting passengers.


    Now lost in her sight, she also felt that she, all of a sudden, lose the fruit of all her efforts to reconcile with him. While Hayri stood up to comfort Cherry, she finally set aside her fear. Come what may, may it be death itself, she just couldn''t allow to lose him!


    To Hayri and Cherry''s surprise, she suddenly ran out of the coffee shop and ran with all her might towards the check - in area. Running past the startled guards who was not prepared for her unwelcomed invasion, she finally caught up with him.


    "Adrian!" Now few steps away from him, she cried out loudly, not minding the onlookers who were staring at them. Ajie paused like a statue without turning towards her direction.


    Grabbing her last chance as her lifeline, she immediately fell down on her knees and hugged his thigh. She then cried out more loudly and bitterly, forcing Ajie to bend down and picked her up. He pulled her out towards a corner with his own tears dripping down on his eyes.


    "Go now. " He said softly but stiffly as Allie wrapped her arms around him.


    "Nooooo. I''ll go home with you."


    She answered while still wailing.


    "Do you want to die? " He looked at her coldly, not being able to conceal his anger and jealousy.


    "It is you that I love, Adrian. Please, believe me. " She gazed at him, her hands fumbling to pull down his face to look at her. Her voice was already hoarse and deeply vibrating in utmost agony.


    "Action speaks louder than words, Allyza. I regret the day I decided to come here. I would have kept my best memories of you. I''m sorry. "


    Adrian gestured for the lady guard, who stood nearby observing them, to come over.


    "Ma''am, please escort the lady out. I need to go. "


    Losing the courage to fight and insist anymore, she allowed the guard to hold and escort her out.


    It was just like that. The memories of their beautiful moments together, just like bubbles, puffed out into the air.

 Chapter 100 - Allies Gift

    On the 10th hour of the last day of June, the twenty graduates of Nahanam Maritime University made their processional march towards the school''s graduation hall.


    Inspired and moved by the melancholic graduation march by Edward Elgar, Allie made the first step nervously into the red velvet carpet as the holder of the highest honor, summa cum laude. Dressed in her black graduation toga paired with its black academic cap with gold tassel hanging sideways, she was a vision of beauty and excellence.


    Hayri came up tearfully next to her as the magna cum laude recipient, brooding upon the fact that his daddy was not around to witness this great accomplishment of his. Yet, when he looked at Allie before him, his heart swelled with great pride and gratitude. If not because of her, he wouldn''t see this great day of his life.


    When the two came up first to the stage to receive their diploma for completing the Dual Degrees of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, Mr. Gregorio proudly marched up to the stage. With his bald head shining against the light, his grin reached up to his ears as he handed them the token of their success. His smile was even wider as it was still him who hang the medals on their necks as the two received their highest honors. His friend, Mr. Caesar Dioko would be too happy for his son. He even hired the best videographer to record that momentous event for him to watch later.


    During that inspirational speech by the keynote speaker when she talked about thanking those people who gave them the inspiration, she couldn''t help but think about Ajie. Since he returned home, she no longer heard about him. He no longer read her apologies and even her simple greetings.


    A notification letter for his intention to annul their marriage was event sent to Cherry. If not for her daughter, she would have already lost her desire to leave. She tried hard to understand him, why in his anger he had decided to end their marriage. Why in his anger, all those beautiful moments they had just shared just disappeared like dreams in the night.


    He was right. Being comfortable in another man''s arms and even kissing him in public, would hardly explain that there was nothing between them. Whatever she would do now to clear herself, would not work out anymore.


    Brushing the tears away which had escaped her eyes, she tried to focus on listening to the speaker. Yet, like a river''s flow which always find its way to the sea, the more she tried to hold back herself, the fiercier was her urge to cry. She ended up sobbing bitterly, and Hayri, being helpless to comfort her enough, gathered her in his arms.


    Allie was so lost in her thoughts that she did not realize that the ceremony was already over. One thing was in her mind, she would finally reveal herself to Hayri. Come what may, she was already ready to die. Her daughter had now someone she called as mommy, someone who took her place perfectly, leaving her nothing to worry anymore. Her daughter was in good hands.


    Just last night, Adrian had posted photos of Chloe and Jane in a park and the three of them in a restaurant. They looked so happy together and there was no trace of pain in his eyes anymore. As they say, the eyes are the windows to the human''s heart and in his looks last night, there were that sparks of being in love. She was now completely forgotten!


    Mr. Gregorio brought them to a certain hotel''s biggest function room and to her surprise, all the company''s personnel were there including the housekeepers. There were also few men whom she hadn''t meet yet. At their entrance, the graduation march was again played and Cherry ran up to her, crying in happiness and grief. After they released themselves from that emotional hug, her colleagues went up to them one by one and congratulated them.


    After their lunch, Mr. Gregorio came up to the front and made an emotional speech which sent Hayri into tears.


    "My friend, Mr. Caesar Dioko, had made himself a very famous man in the business world because of the great success he had achieved. But above all these achievements, nothing would compare to the joy he now feels in knowing that his only son, his greatest pride and success, has accomplished so many things these days. Graduating as a magna cum laude of the dual degrees of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, completing his first course in Business Administration and firmly deciding to take over in running his father''s main business, the Gretel Shipping Lines, no father could be as happier as him... "


    "I would also like to thank Miss Zheena Kiamko for the inspiration she gives my son. But it''s not my task to do that. Before I would give the floor to Hayri, shall we all listen first to her response. "


    Allie was a bit startled but since her sense of gratitude was written in her heart, as well as her desire to make up for all the moral damages she caused Hayri and his dad, it would not need her a long time to prepare for her speech. With an air of confidence, she handed Cherry a micro SDHC, then went up into a stage.


    "As I received the honor of my success today, I would like to give these honor back to Sir Gregorio, the one who gives me the opportunity to study and work at the same time. And for all the things I cannot tell the public on how grateful I am, please know that I am indebted with its sense of gratitude. I also want to thank Hayri for all that he is to me. It is always my prayer that he will not hate me in the future. "


    "As my way of returning all these blessings that I receive today, I would like to present my graduation gift to Hayri. Please see this. " As she ended her talk, she invited everyone to watch the video she made for him.


    Then, the music from the background began to play. Photos of her and Hayri appeared on the screen during the moment she made her first design. Together, they discussed what were those things she lacked and where she must improve.


    The video moved forward and photos of superyachts in twenty different great designs then unfolded in the big screen. Flashes of all its specific details were quickly reflected as the movements of the photos went along well with the rhythm of the music.


    Finally, she was ready to die. She had already left him her promised legacy.


    As the crowd was awed by the ingenuity of her work, Hayri sprinted towards the stage. Overwhelmed with so much happiness, he drew her into his arms and hugged her tightly. She laughed, happy that Hayri was overjoyed with her gift.


    Just as when she pulled out to end her presentation, Hayri pulled her forward, instead, for a deep kiss!

 Chapter 101 - Her Husbands Competitor

    The people stood up and applauded the moment they saw Hayri kissing Zheena. All of them, especially those who worked for already twenty years, knew what happened to Sr. Dioko. Though they didn''t know exactly the anger and bitterness which Hayri had been struggling for years, it was not difficult to conclude that he may had lost all his courage to hold on with the great loss and shame he suffered. They were happy for him and were thankful that Zheena came into his life.


    When Hayri finally released her, she spanked the top of his head, making Hayri smile even wider. He was so handsome with those glowing face and tender look of his eyes. Even Allie, herself, was emotionally moved. Hayri was innocent. His love for her, the inspiration he got from her and that emotional drive to move on and change the course of his life, were all true and honest. How could she be angry of that kiss? It was not about lust or desire, it was an expression of love and gratitude.


    As she bowed down to take her exit afterwards, Hayri held his hand, instead, while someone gave him a microphone.


    "Five years ago, " he began, " as all of you may have known already as all of you are our loyal staff to which we are grateful off, my life turned upside down. With my father''s misfortune, I also didn''t want to live anymore. I was angry, very angry. I had even sworn, that the day I will know who betrayed my father, I will kill her with my own hands. I wouldn''t mind if I stain my hands with blood, my conscience won''t bear the guilt. Her death would not be enough to compensate the pain, the fear, the loneliness and that great pity I feel for my father. "


    "Though I know that my father deserved it, I did not see him, myself, as a tyrant and someone greedy of money, because all his life, he had been giving and sharing his blessings to others, most of all, to the less fortunate. "


    "Unfortunately, the traitor was identified as someone who was granted with my father''s scholarship program. It hurts, right?"


    "But then, God is so good and He loves even me. He send Zheena into my life in a most unexpected way. Every morning for almost six years now, she kneels down with me, to ask God to take away all the claws of anger, hatred and bitterness I feel inside. She kneels down with me, to ask God to let me see what good I can make out of my life than dwelling in that pit of depression. She kneels down with me, to ask God to let me see the good things and the welfare of many if drugs would be cleared out. "


    "And God let me see the joy of the children, the happiness of every home and the peace of the society if drugs would be kicked out from all the face of the earth. "


    "It may be ironic to say that, today, I would like to thank whoever is she who betrayed my father. Because I, now, understand her intentions. Drug cartels should be thrown out and drug syndicates should be toppled down in all the face of the earth. "


    "Even my father understands this better than I do. He''s never angry and for him the iron bars give him the true freedom. It was not his will to do it anyway, something had happened in the past which forced him to do it. "


    "And now, because of gratitude to this beautiful woman beside me, who becomes my strength, my inspiration, my spiritual adviser, my everything, I would also like to present my gifts to her. "


    Zheena''s tears were already falling like torrents and before Hayri could even present his gifts, she was already sobbing. Hayri reached up to her and brushed her tears away. He then wrapped an arm across her shoulders and pulled her closer as they looked up together to the big screen.


    As the music began to play, the aerial view of the New Bilibid Prison rolled out into the screen. Located in Muntinlupa,  Philippines, it is the main insular penitentiary designed to house the prison population of the country.


    A video of his father happily dancing with the inmates then followed. The next scenes were about him attending a motivational lecture, participating in a game, joining a spiritual retreat and working on a livelihood - making projects.


    Then, a narrator''s voice was heard from the background telling the crowd that despite the painful incident which happened to the Dioko''s, better and beautiful perspectives were born. Photos of the drug rehabilitation center and places of retreat which were built inside the jail''s premises, then came into view. The narrator then stated that Hayri funded all these projects with the hope to create change in the hearts of those individuals whose lives were ruined because of drugs.


    Allie was too overwhelmed to see this. She realized that all of her efforts were paid off. Her fear was worth it because, not only Hayri did have a change of heart, but also those thousands whose lives were destroyed by drugs.


    She sobbed loudly as she burrowed her face into his chest but her voice was clearly heard inside the hall. Her cries moved the crowd and they cried with her, especially Cherry, whose emotions were mixed up. She was hurting for the misunderstanding of the two but, now, she also understood and pitied Hayri. Her heart just broke for the three of them.


    A different and happier music was then played into the background. The photos of the shipyard which only accepted repairs and conversions floated into the screen. The narrator then happily announced that because of a woman''s dream, a new shipyard with a separate entity from the main Gretel Shipping Lines, Inc. was founded. Registered in the name of Zheena, this new company which would build the world''s most beautiful and most luxurious superyachts, was named as Rina DK Builders.


    The narrator then emphasized that Rina DK was a combination of the last syllables of the names Hayri and Zheena and the combination of their last name''s initials.


    Those men whom Allie did not recognize then came up to the stage in their uniform. They were, then, introduced by the master of the ceremony as the engineers and architects of Rina Dk Builders.


    The team leader then picked up the microphone and looked at Allie in the eyes before he started to speak.


    " Ma''am Zheena, after this, we will all go together to the Philippines to present Mr. Hayri''s another gift to you. But since we know that it is not good to left you hanging in curiousity, we decide to let you take a glimpse of it. "


    Allie felt tickled and awed as he looked at Hayri. "You already have so many gifts which I don''t deserve anymore. How could... " Hayri instantly covered her mouth , keeping her from speaking out her mind.


    "Just watch. " He said as he lifted up her chin to let her look back into the


    wide screen.


    Suddenly, Allie froze at what she saw. She felt her heartbeat had just stopped. Her tears then fell like fountains which knew no end.


    On the screen, while the music in the background pierced into the deepest recesses of her heart, an animated pictures of the crew ship she and Hayri had designed together, rolled up.


    Then, another actual video was then played. It started on the transport of the materials to the stockyard followed by the plate bending and the hull formation. Then, it moved forward to the outfitting and block erection to the steps towards the completion of the product!


    Allie was still dumbfounded when the project team bowed down simultaneously before taking their exit.


    In her mind, she still couldn''t believe how she became her own husband''s competitor...


    _______


    Note: My next update would be tomorrow night. My head is aching due to writing simultaneously two different stories. My astigmatism has worsened.


    But I love the challenge.

 Chapter 102 - Amor Omnia Vincit

    While Allie still stared at the screen in great awe and surprise, the scene was changed into the great numbers of spectators standing by the shore and one of them was Hayri and Mr. Gregorio. Men in navy blue uniforms, whom she instanly recognized as the team of naval architects and marine engineers of Rina DK Builders, were then zoomed one by one in seconds. Then, the beautiful white -and -navy-blue cruise ship was then focused, displaying its vibrant, multicolored ribbons cascading beautifully from the top of its stern and bow. Flags and spirals of ribbons were also deftly decorated through the strings attached from the funnel to the top of the navigation board. From there, it also extended towards the forecastle area.


    The next scene moved on and a woman was seen cutting a ribbon. Then, with a bottle of champagne in her hand, she smashed it hardly against the bow. As soon as the bottle hit the masthead, the deafening sound of the drums rhytmically played, filled the atmosphere. A solemn instrumental music then floated into the air and the sound of the drums faded into the background. The voice of the master of the ceremony was then heard, proclaiming her lovely name.


    "Amor Omnia Vincit", which means, love conquers all. Everyone around understood that even the name spoke of his love and gratitude for Allie. Because of her, he was able to conquer his fierce battle against himself.


    Hayri then hugged her from the back, his hands were clasped in her abdomen while his chin rested in her shoulder as the video shifted into another scene. The ship was then seen moving through an inclined slipway and in the next moment, it slid into water. A long round of applause then thundered into the hall as everyone around also stood up, blending their squeals of joy with the crowd in the screen.


    Allie also applauded tearfully, being overwhelmed by that great surprise. When that explosive round of applause finally died down, she turned to Hayri and thanked him with a tight hug. The crowd applauded again, this time to cheer them on.


    During that two days that Hayri was away and Allie was with Adrian, it was the day that the ceremonial launching of the ship took place. He had it constructed in one of their shipyards in the USA, close to one of their shipping line''s offices. He already planned to give it as a surprise as soon as he and Allie finalized the specific details of the concept of her first design.


    He was supposed to let Allie witness it but then he changed his mind. After the launching, there would still be sea trials , registration and validation processes from the classification society and some other permits before the ship could make her maiden voyage towards her home port in Cebu, Philippines. He had already estimated it that by the time Amor Omnia Vincit would be cleared to sail off towards home, it would be shortly before their graduation. And he could present it as his surprise gift to Allie.


    Instead of making their shipyard in Tuzla as the home of Rina DK Builders, he decided to develop one of their neglected shipyards in Cebu for that new name. He knew that Zheena''s heart would always belong to her homeplace and that one of these days, she would be going home. Besides, the main office of Gretel''s Shipping Lines, Inc. was also in Cebu, so they would literally be going home after their graduation.


    Six years had already been long enough to bury his painful past and it was already time to start anew in his own home. And if Zheena would finally accept him, he could propose her a marriage and they would live together in the house he prepared for her.


    He, himself, was overwhelmed that all the necessary preparations were carried out smoothly and that he and Zheena could be together in their dream vessel''s maiden voyage.


    The moment they would arrive in their home port, a great celebration awaited. He would hold a blessing an inauguration which would be attended by his father. True to his words, he decided to become a state witness, not only to be acquitted, but in order to end off the long battle of court hearings with misleading evidences and misrepresentations.


    ____


    Allie took one last look with a heavy heart around her comfortable office home for almost six years. The walls had been the witnesses of her sorrows and moments of despair.It had also been the sanctuary of her deepest pleadings for God to guide her along the way, most especially, in her efforts to help Hayri. It had been the home to her dreams of achieving higher education and become one of the world"s most outstanding woman. It had also her school to become her best in culinary arts with Hayri as her great supporter.


    Hayri, then, came up to fetch her after he arranged all their luggages in the car. Seeing that she was crying, he understood that it must be because of the many memories they both held together. He bent down to kiss her forehead before placing an arm around her shoulders as they went down to the waiting car which would take them towards the airport.


    Few hours afterwards, she found herself gazing at the beautiful masterpiece before her, swaying gracefully in her grandeur. As the world''s second largest cruise ship, it excelled in luxury and technological innovations.


    Her tears fell down again as she climbed up with Hayri, headed by half of the rows of crew in their uniforms while the rest followed, escorting them towards their cabins.


    Her tears, were not only tears of happiness , but also of grief. She finally made up her mind. The moment they would reach home, she would finally reveal herself to Hayri. She would now face her greatest fear and end up her agony.


    It was more than enough that for a short time, she had shared beautiful moments with Ajie. It was more than enough that her desires were granted, Hayri had become what she wanted him to be. And it was more than enough that she had seen the fruits of her labor and had seen the rewards of her success.


    She may be terribly hated but was also greatly loved.. She was now ready to accept her fate and was already ready to die.

 Chapter 103 - The Maiden Voyage

    Allie''s tears couldn''t stop from streaming down her face as her emotion gripped on her. She just couldn''t believe that her first and trial design, the one which she didn''t gave so much thought, was now unfolding before her in vibrant breath of life. The people who happily booked for that maiden voyage gathered in two rows by the entrance as the processional march was played in the background. A male''s voice was then heard from the vessel''s internal public address system, announcing the arrival of the ship''s owner and designer. Allie was stunned beyond her wild imagination that Hayri prepared so much to make their arrival so grand and unforgettable. She smiled tearfully and awkwardly for a moment, running her eyes across the crowd who divided themselves in two rows, applauding them elegantly as they marched into the red carpet especially designed for her first entry. The round of applause elated her feelings and she felt like soaring up in the sky while the voice from the background energetically welcomed and introduced her to the crowd. While she continued to walk , following the crew who ceremoniously ushered them, she looked up at Hayri who gazed back at her with love and pride in her eyes.


    "Hayri, thank you. I hope this doesn''t end."


    Hayri consciously looked around before looking back at her. "Of course. What are you talking about?"


    "Just mark my words. " Hayri was alarmed again at the deeper meaning of her words but with the crowd beside them, he chose to let it pass for now.


    Allie was greatly delighted as she took in the scene of the great masterpiece which, two years ago, was just a dream she did not cherish much. She dreamed more on designing superyachts because cruise ship designing was Ajie''s dream and she didn''t wish to overshadow him. Who would ever know that Hayri took her first design seriously? And now she unintentionally became her husband''s competitor.


    The outburst of life, fun and glamour inside the vessel took her beyond her imagination. She thought it could only be in her dreams only or a mere sketch in her computer. The state - of- the art entertainment facilites, the sprawling waterparks which highlighted their featured slides, the dining options which included tea gardens, coffee shops and fine dining restaurants, the relaxation halls like spa and fitness center and their elegant AV rooms were all real before her.


    ___


    After the tour around, Hayri took her to their cabin which opened to balcony where they could enjoy the sea view while they would be on their journey. It was elegantly and romantically designed, giving a touch of an intimate atmosphere. Hayri obviously designed this for his planned courtship towards Allie, that by the end of their journey towards home, he could have her sweet ''yes''.


    During the many days of their voyage, he would refrain from thinking about business plans so he could have a full blast in his romantic advances towards her. All these years, he had been wondering what held her back from accepting his love for her. And all he got was a reminder of her wish of not hating her when the time comes.


    Standing by the deck in their cabin''s balcony to watch the surroundings as the vessel maneuvered away from the dock, Allie turned her head towards Hayri who was slowly approaching her.


    "Hayri, are you as excited to go home as me? " Allie exclaimed happily as she looked up to him.


    "Home is where you are, my love."


    "Hayri..." Allie could only sigh helplessly everytime she was caught offguard by his sweet advances.


    "Yes."


    Before Allie could shift back to another topic, Hayri began executing his steps. He clasped his arms around her, drawing her back to lean into his body.


    "Hayri, not this way..." She began protesting. She didn''t actually hated him, in fact, a soft spot for him was already beginning to occupy inside her heart.


    "Just what is the right way?" He said as he tightened his embrace while burrying his face in her neck. He could not afford to be patient anymore. It had been more than five years of waiting. Everyday, she was such a temptation. A temptation to crush her in his arms and drown her with his kisses.


    "Please..." Before she could complete her sentence, his hand swiftly but gently tilted her head while his other hand tipped her off from her balance so she could not resist. He then captured her lips into a deep kiss, releasing her only when she got out of breath.


    While she was still panting, he lifted her off her feet in a sweetheart carry and brought her to the couch in the balcony.


    "Hayri, what are you doing?" Allie hissed after she spoke, taken aback by his sudden agressiveness.


    "Nothing, Zheena. Just loving you with all my heart. " He said as he sat beside her after placing her on the couch.


    Allie closed her eyes and sighed


    Just few more days, and this love of his would be completely blown away. Throughout this voyage, she decided to yield into his wishes, saved for that one which would be in bed.


    "Hayri, can you arrange an aircraft to pick us up, few days before the ship will arrive? "


    Hayri stared at her for a moment, wondering what was in her mind.


    "Yes, dear. What do you plan?"


    While waiting for her answer as he saw her reluctance, he laid down at the couch and placed his head on her lap, giving him the chance to look directly into her eyes. To his surprise, she had not stiffened. Instead, she brushed his tousled hair away from his forehead.


    " I can''t seem to wait to see my family again. I want them to be there when the vessel arrives. "


    "Why not call them? This is our moment, Zheena. I want to spend this whole voyage with you."


    " I ran away from home, Hayri. No one knew where I am. " Of course, she couldn''t tell him yet about Ajie, who couldn''t be reached anymore the moment he left the Istanbul airport.


    "Okay. As long as you promise to let me go with you."


    Just then, Hayri''s phone vibrated. He picked it up from his pocket and placed it on a speaker mode.


    "Dad!"


    "Hayri, I''m already excited! I have already arranged for the blessing and thanksgiving party once you will arrive. " Mr.Dioko''s voice sounded ecstatic, indeed.


    "Dad, are you sure you can be a hundred percent safe in that decision to be a state witness?" Hayri did not favor this decision from the beginning.He was afraid that his father''s business partners would rise up against him for directly exposing them.


    "None of us is a hundred percent safe but if I am unlucky, at least I have finally done what is right. I won''t regret this decision whatever will happen."

 Chapter 104 - Home At Last

    "Are you not afraid?"


    Hayri couldn''t take the worry off his mind and even if the jail wasn''t a safe place either for a case like his, to be a state witness posed greater risk as it would validate the evidences. The protection program was sure but somehow, evil intentions would always win the battle.


    "I could no longer change the fact that I am already into this. Besides, I''m already old. To see you successful and happy is already enough to make me go down to my grave in peace. "


    "I don''t like to hear that, dad. Of course, I want you to walk down the aisle with me on my wedding day and to personally care for my children. How about it? Would you rather like the idea better?"


    "Yes, yes but I would like to meet first the luckiest woman who stole my son''s heart. " Hayri chuckled as he also heard his dad laughing.


    "Yes, dad. I have to say goodbye for now. I''m currently on a date..." He smiled wickedly at Allie who rolled her eyes as soon as he finished his statement.


    "Bye son. Be sure she''d say yes to your marriage proposal."


    Allie was more worried now. How would Hayri accept his failure soon? How would he accept the reality about her personality? With all the ways he pampered her, it would only be right for him to expect that she was going to accept his love soon. He was being aggressive lately, treating her as his own already. She was already debating within herself about when was the best time to confess. Would it be before their arrival so that Hayri would have the chance to remove her ownership to the ship? Or would she just complete the celebration before pulling the lever off the bomb she''s going to throw at him?


    "Dear, you heard what dad said, right?" Hayri happily recapped his dad''s demand to have them married..


    Allie smiled weakly as he looked down on him. He seemed to be enjoying the moment of laying down his head in her lap. He must had assumed that they were already into a special relationship since he had successfully kissed her a couple of times and held her like she was his own already.


    "Hayri, I''m already married. In fact, I already have a daughter."


    Hayri was quick to negate her statement. He had looked into her personal details and confirmed that she was still single.


    "Then I won''t mind if the one you would be cheating around is me."


    " My husband would kill me if he''d found it out and would probably call our marriage off. "


    "Then I''m more than willing to accept you."


    Allie knew that he didn''t believe her but it was not yet the right time to push the truth into him.


    "What is the progress of your search for Allyza?" She tested the waters, anyway, she was already a step closer to revealing the truth to him.


    "No progress yet." He answered lazily, making her feel he wasn''t interested in it anymore.


    "Do you want me to help you find her?" She held her breath as she waited for an answer but tried hard to be as expressionless as possible.


    "Why would you do that?" Hayri brought his brows together, wondering what was in her mind.


    "To get things done and over with. "


    She honestly answered him. She''s already tired of living under the shadows of fear. She''s already losing a husband because of this and another delay, would also risk the loss of her child. Or, had she already lost her child to Jane?


    ____


    During the days that followed while the ship gracefully moved upon the waters, Hayri also intensified his romantic approaches to Allie. They dined in different restaurants and spent leisure hours in entertainment and relaxation areas. He took her to a dance in the grand ballroom or sang with her in KTV lounges. He taught her some difficult swimming strokes and dropped with her in the slides. They watched the daily sunrise and sunsets while sipping on their cups of tea together and basked in the moonlight in their balcony.


    Every moment was dearly spent with each other until Hayri could feel that Allie''s defenses finally worn out. Even during the nights when one time she woke up to find him lying down beside her, she no longer protested. She even no longer resisted when he cuddled her while they slept. She now even smiled when he woke her up in the morning with his kisses.


    Days passed by and they finally reached the Asian waters. And as agreed, a private helicopter picked them up to take them home ahead. Allie became emotional as they finally touched the soil of Cebu. It''s already almost six years when she left and many things had changed. And she knew that a big change also happened in her own home and in her marriage with Ajie.


    "I''ll fetch you later and take you home." Hayri said after he helped her with her luggages inside her hotel room.


    "I''ll call you then when I''m free." Her lips twisted into a curve which was both a half smile and a half cry. She knew that this would be the last time she would ever see Hayri''s lavish care for her. Today would be the last day she would be Zheena in his eyes, the last moment of his great respect for her. After this, everything would take a 360 degree turn.


    "Okay." Hayri thought that the sense of melancholy he saw in her now was because she missed home. Until now, Allie had been silent about her personal details and he chose to respect her. He bent down to give her a quick parting kiss but to his surprise, Allie instantly took over the initiative to kiss him deeply while he kept swallowing her salty tears!


    "Thank you for everything, Hayri. I will always miss you. " She said as she gazed tearfully into his eyes.


    Hayri frowned at the hidden meaning of her words but he chose to ignore it. He could wait until Allie was ready to confess.


    "I will miss you as well. Call me if you''ll need me."


    As soon as Hayri left, Allie did not.waste time. Few minutes after, she was already sitting down in front of Atty. Manloza''s desk.


    "I''m sorry, Miss Allyza. " Atty Manloza gave out a sad smile as she handed her a piece of envelope.

 Chapter 105 - Losing The Marriage

    Allie stared at the envelope in her hand. There''s no need to open it, she knew how would a court decree of annulment would be like. It''s now official, she had lost her marriage to Ajie.


    "It''s alright, Atty. I have already known about this few days ago. Just need to see it for myself." Allie gave Atty. Manloza a weak smile, not making a slightest effort to conceal the pain of being officially confirmed that her marriage to Ajie was finally annuled.


    "Work it out, my dear. You can always remarry." Allie knew that she was only comforting her.


    While on the ship, Cherry sent her message to go to Atty. Manloza''s office. She didn''t have to ask what it was, she knew it would be about her declaration of marriage annulment. Her only question was, the most painful question in fact, why it had to be so fast. A marriage annulment would usually take one to three years to process, but theirs only took around six months. Having connections was really an advantage because your schedules would be on the priority list, and the Lopez family was really great at that.She could only guess, Ajie''s engagement to Jane would be formally announced during the ceremonial launching of their ship. What hurt the most was the fact that it should have been hers, the glory would have been about the celebration of their dreams they once shared together.


    Cherry must had took a very hard time to decide, whether or not, she would drop the bomb to her while on the cruise. Of course, she was afraid to spoil the moment yet she also knew that telling her the truth would be the best option. To conceal the pain, she allowed herself to submit to Hayri''s romantic advances. She was then free after all and that she needed warmth to boost her broken spirit.


    "Thank you." She stood up right away and made a nod before turning towards the door. A minute delay would end her breaking before Atty. Manloza and she didn''t like the idea.


    She had consented to the process without questions or arguments. Many times during the first steps of the annulment process, this lawyer of hers whom she entrusted all her legal matters, made her tighten her belt in this decision. Her consent to the annulment would change her life and it might be beyond redemption.


    She took a taxi and went directly to Ajie''s apartment. She wanted to see the place she used to call home. The place whose walls were the eyes and ears of how their love for each other was expressed.


    Just as the taxi pulled to a stop in front of the apartment, she saw a car going out. She didn''t have to think twice. She knew it was Ajie. She wanted to stop him but, all of a sudden, she lost the courage. Somehow, her instinct still worked and she instructed the driver to follow him. She had to see and talk to him!


    They followed him and she didn''t wonder why they ended in Kamelyo. She had known ahead that his office was here and the object of his dream, his first masterpiece, was erected in this shipyard. Being so obsessed in following him, she didn''t even look around to take a glimpse of the place which, for a long time, held the memories of her childhood and teenage years. This was even the place where she first met Ajie.


    Soon, she saw Ajie''s car slowed down until it parked properly in front of a building. She waited until Ajie would come out. And true, Ajie did really came out but he walked over to the passenger''s side and opened the door. She then saw Dr. Jane stepped down, her hand holding to the hand Ajie held out for her. Then they walked slowly towards the building, with Ajie''s arm on her shoulders. They were so beautiful to look at, she couldn''t deny that, an indeed perfect pair to be called '' husband and wife''.


    The self-control she had been holding so tight, now slipped unrestrained out of her, and she began crying loudly and hard. It was indeed over for both of them. She saw it with her own eyes! Jane had finally walked into his heart.


    She wailed out for who knew how long and the driver was, fortunately, considerate. He just remained in his seat with a stiff neck, glancing every now and then at the mirror.


    "I''m sorry, sir, and thank you for the patience. Keep the change." She smiled as she handed him paper bills which widened his eyes.


    The driver seemed overjoyed as it shone in his eyes, and Allie was relieved. She had just grabbed him the opportunity to find more passengers. She picked up a kit in her bag and made a retouch of her makeup which was totally washed out by her tears. Yet, no matter what, it could not conceal her swelling eye bags.


    She then thanked the driver and in few seconds, made her way to the building. Once in front of the door where she saw them entered, she knocked. However, no one answered. She didn''t know that it was Ajie''s private entrance into his office and that there was no secretary to address his client''s requests. Being sure that this was really the door where Ajie and Jane entered, she twisted it open, and to her surprise, it was not locked.


    She then opened it wider and was suddenly startled at what she saw!


    What''s inside the room didn''t look like an office. It rather looked like a living room which was elegantly decorated. Most of all, the thing that quickened her pulses was the sight of Jane and Ajie on the couch, obviously enjoying the show on a wide TV screen in front of them. They sat closely together and Jane hurriedly straightened up and pulled herself away from him the moment she saw her.


    "Allyza!" Jane hurriedly stood up to greet her though in the next moment, Allie saw that she regretted the action. Jane was about to hug her but then she awkwardly paused and extended her hand instead to shake with her.


    "Dr. Jane..." Allie did not waste any minute as she could tell that they weren''t surprised of her visit. It was not a secret after all that Omnia Vincit Amor was on its maiden voyage towards her home country.


    "I want to see my child and my parents."


    Jane looked down to see Ajie''s reaction as he remained seated in the couch, focusing on the show as if she was just their utility worker receiving an errand from Jane. Seeing that Ajie did not move, she bent down to pull something from her wallet. It was a business card.


    "Here''s my number, Lyz. Just inform me of the time and date you wish to see them."


    Allie winced in pain as she heard this. She was the real mother and now she was regarded as a stranger,waiting at their mercy for the chance to be with them.


    When she was about to accept the card, Ajie stood up to grab it from Jane.


    "I will be the one to decide." He said as he looked at her coldly.


    Allie could no longer hold back her pain and rage. What she did was a great sacrifice so that one day, they could be free from the wrath of her enemy.


    "I would not stand in your way but you have no right to deny me of my child and my parents!"


    "The moment you ran away was the very day you lost them." The coldness of his gaze now became freezing in her sight.


    "You know my reasons!" She retorted and her tears fell like torrents in the midst of a drought.


    "Really? I was your husband but you did not regard me as one. You worked out alone for that damn reasons you said and let me feel I am incapicitated."


    "You know I was afraid..." She answered through her tears and her screaming emotions were punching inside her chest.


    "That foolish fear turned you into a puppet to the extent of staining the integrity of our marriage."


    "And you''re not?" She glared at him as she also ran her gaze at Jane. The latter cowered and hurriedly made her exit towards another connecting room.


    "I''m sorry, Allie. I just could no longer accept a wife sharing herself to another man. In all those years, I really admire you for not getting pregnant. What pills are you taking? Or Louise is just incapacitated? "


    Allie was suddenly blinded with anger that her hand instantly came flying into his face.

 Chapter 106 - The Threat

    "You know that''s not true when you touched me..." Ajie understood easily what she meant and he laughed sardonically. Back then in Istanbul, she screamed in pain the moment he entered in her feminine territory.


    "You have millions now and in this modern era where science and technology are at it''s peak, we both know that everything can be faked including one''s gender. Your tightness is not an exemption. How would I know if you underwent hymenorraphy?"


    Hymenorraphy or hymen reconstruction surgery is the temporary surgical restoration of the hymen. He got this idea from Jane when he asked about this for enlightenment.


    Allie felt lost, Ajie was now mocking her. Seeing that there''s no way she could win him over, she conceded.


    "I won''t force you to believe me, if for you it''s all a lie. It''s your choice, after all. I just want to see my daughter before I''ll die. I won''t take her away from you. I know I have nothing to worry. I just hope that when you two will have children on your own, you will not set Chloe aside. Just give her to my parents if she becomes less important to you." Allie then pull out a sheet of paper in her bag and wrote her number.


    "If you still have a conscience, send me a message." Allie turned her back right away and went out of the door. She didn''t need to waste time with him, if mockery was all she could get.


    Luckily, the taxi driver was still outside, doing some fixing on the engine. When he saw her coming out, he looked up.


    "Ma''am, do you need a ride again?"


    The driver smiled sheepishly at her.


    "Yes, please." She answered, forcing out a smile for him.


    "Then, hop in."


    " Marguerrita Hotel, kuya."


    "No problem."


    While on her way, she contacted Joshua. As far as she knew, he was still the team leader in hunting her down. She saved his number secretly from Hayri'' s phone one time, while they were on the cruise ship. To her relief, Joshua picked up the call.


    "Cous, this is Allie. See me in thirty minutes in Margueritta Hotel."


    Joshua perhaps got a hard time digesting her call. He had been looking for her for five years and for her to call him on her own, was such a great surprise. In that span of time, he wanted to locate her ahead of his team because he wanted to protect her as much as he could. He was the reason why Allie was not located nor her details dug out, because he always muddled up the search point and misled the team to irrelevant sources. Yet, he knew that a day would come that his methods wouldn''t work out anymore.


    "What?"


    "Yes, it''s me, Allie."


    "Am I dreaming?" He knew very well that it was indeed her voice.


    "Pinch me when you''ll see me." She chuckled.


    "Okay, see you then."


    ___


    Joshua cried right away the moment they hugged. Either it was because they met again after a long time or because he was reminded that her life hung now on a thread , he could not tell.


    "Where have you been? Do you know that everyday for five years, I have been so nervous because of you?" Joshua cried even harder as he said this, making Allie cry along with him.


    "I'' m sorry, Josh. I always know that as much as you can, you will protect me. But I am already tired of hiding. I already want to end this. "


    "What do you mean?" Joshua eyed her suspiciously.


    "I am now revealing myself to Hayri."


    ''Who is Hayri?" He asked, unable to keep tract in the flow of their conversation. Or, he was just refusing to believe what he just had heard.


    "Louise Dioko." She answered calmly and fearlessly while fixing her gaze at him.


    "Are you crazy? Have you gone out of your mind? You don''t know how much he hates you. You don''t know how much pressure he places on us just to find you! " Joshua must have exerted all his energy to suppress his rage towards her.


    "I don''t want to go on living as a prisoner forever."


    "Then go back to where you hide for five years!"


    She chuckled sardonically before she narrated to Joshua how she fell into Hayri''s lair. How she tried to help him change his mindset and how she was tied now to the goal she set for him.


    "Josh, few days from now, the Philippines will be giving me the honor for designing the world''s second largest cruise ship. Hayri made it possible for me. I don''t want it to happen anymore. It make''s me guiltier."


    Allie also told him what had become of her marriage to Ajie. It was all because of her hiding, of her fear to die. And she wanted to end it now. Witnessing the contempt Ajie gave her a while ago, made her drop the last courage she clung on to.


    "Tomorrow, at ten in the morning, tell Hayri that you have found me. And that you will bring me to him."


    "Allie, give it more time to think about it." Joshua started to give up, he saw in her eyes the determination and he knew that no one could stop her now. Might as well try a different way to save her from Hayri''s wrath.


    "It''s final. If you won''t, I''m going to do it myself."


    "Are you ready to die?" Joshua looked at her helplessly and he cried again in frustration and pity towards her.


    "I am. However, I have one request. I want to see my daughter and my parents before I''ll reveal myself. But Ajie won''t grant it."


    Joshua left with a heavy heart. He didn''t take long in talking to her. He must find a way and he would see to it that her wish would be granted. He didn'' t waste any minute and he called Ajie right away.


    "Where are you?" He didn''t even show a courtesy of mentioning his name.


    "At the office."


    "Then wait for me."


    "Got it."


    The moment Ajie opened the door for him, he sent a fist flying into his face.


    "If you don''t want me to kill you, show the child to Allie or else, you will lay down with her in the grave tomorrow." Joshua demanded fiercely, his eyes were flaming with anger.


    Ajie held on to his face while Jane rushed to his side to shield him from another blow.


    "You may not be interested anymore but be sure to bring the child to her before ten in the morning. She''s all yours after ten anyway."


    With this, Joshua slammed the door and left, leaving Ajie standing dumbly in his place.

 Chapter 107 - Give Me A Favor

    Jane immediately held Ajie close to her to comfort him. She then gently held his hand and guided him back to the couch. She did not say a word, a hug was enough to let him know that she was ready to support him in any decision he would come up with.She neither encouraged him to hand in the child nor did she oppose in the possibility of him reconciling with Allie.


    Ajie decided to go home, he lost the energy to do his paper works. He was too lost in his thoughts that he did not object when Jane offered to sit behind the wheels. The trip was wrapped up in complete silence as he was closing his eyes until he felt that Jane pulled to a stop. To his surprise, they weren''t in their home in Beautiful Haven. And when he looked at his watch, he realized that their travel was longer than the usual amount of time spent in going home.


    "Where are we?" Ajie asked as he gave her a quick sideway glance before he looked around the place.


    They were in front of  a secluded, elegant house which stood amidst the tall and gigantic trees surrounding the whole place. The lawn was very wide, covered generously by lush Bermuda grass. There were beautifully - crafted landscapes, all adorned with beautiful, ornamental plants. On top of it, the serenity of the environment enhanced the beauty of the nature around them. It could give any one an impression that the place was never marred by any form of hostility nor human violence.


    "Just follow me." She gave him a weak and tender smile as she held on to his arm, leading him afterwards into the living room.


    A woman in her fifties was watching them bluntly while sitting on a lounging chair. Jane released her grip on his arm as soon as she saw her. She then walked directly to  the woman and bent down to hug and kissed her on the cheek.


    "Mom,  I''m here with Adrian, my fiance. The one I told you before, remember? I would like you to meet him." She then knelt down before her before she continued  excitedly.


    "Mom, I''m going to be wed soon with the man I love. Isn''t that exciting? But I need your blessings first. " She spoke in a hushed tone but Ajie could hear her well.


    "Adrian?" She finally spoke out, gathering her brows together to give him a long stare.


    "Yes, mom. He is kuya''s namesake."


    The woman continued her burning gaze at Ajie and all of a sudden,  he became uncomfortable. He never thought that Jane''s mom was still alive. It was something their mouths were sealed off eversince the day he knew them.


    "Adrian, let me take a look at you. I want to see if you''re really worthy for my daughter." She called out, her gaze never left him.


    Ajie walked slowly towards her, mystified by her current status and the real story behind her retreat from the world.  Throughout the long years she wasn''t mentioned anymore, the people had already forgotten about her like she didn''t exist anymore. He heard hearsays about her though,  such as she and Mr. Lopez were separated. Some even said she had gone overseas to try her luck in foreign countries. But until this moment, even if he was now close to becoming her husband,  Jane still kept her mouth shut. It came to him now as a more difficult riddle to unravel.


    A private nurse hurriedly pulled out a chair and placed it across Jane''s mom. She then shyly gestured for him to sit down on it.


    "You''re Adrian, aren''t you? My son is also named Adrian but I lost him many years ago. " She said as soon as he was seated and her expression then changed. In the next second,  she was almost on the verge of tears.


    "Yes." Ajie managed only a single word since her sad expression surprisingly affected him in a way that he also felt like crying.


    "Who are your parents and where are they now?" She asked as she reached out a hand to brush his hair.


    "They are in the faraway province, madamme."


    She continued to brush his hair and then ran down her fingers to trace his forehead and  down to his temples. Ajie also held his gaze towards her,  as that tender expression in her face softened up a spot in his heart. He may not be sure as to what could than mean,  but he''s sure he felt warmth and acceptance.


    Ajie then noticed that her eyes lit up when her fingers stopped above his temples. He wondered what was in the mind of this woman. The fact that a nurse was  standing  behind her was an indication that she was not physically well.  That blunt affect she gave the moment she saw them by the door,  also gave him a hint that she was also mentally or emotionally unwell. He remembered that he had a mole in each of the center of his temples and perhaps, she found it amazing. She was like a child, fully entertained by her granted wish in taking a close look at him, his physical flaws not exempted.


    She then turned to Jane. "Jane, can you give us time to talk alone?"


    Jane nodded and made her exit gracefully towards the kitchen. She didn''t mind at all.  She was obviously overjoyed to see that her mother held no resistance against Ajie. It could only mean that their wedding would be a happy one.


    "Adrian, can you give me favor? " She said as soon as she saw that they got the  privacy,  her eyes glowed in excitement.


    "Sure, madamme, if that''s possible, why not?" He answered, not wanting to thwart out her excitement.


    "Do you have some pictures when you were yet a little boy? Like when you were yet three years old? Bring them to me, please. "


    "I''ll ask my parents about that,  madamme. I am sure they are good in keeping memories. "

 Chapter 108 - Meeting Her Enemy

    It was not oblivious to Ajie''s knowledge that he was only an adopted child but he knew it was far from reality that he could be their lost child. Yet, he felt amused at the irony of life being presented to himself. Jane''s mother was for him too desperate, to think that he could be one, just because her son''s name was similar to his. Yet, he couldn''t deny it to himself, that for the first time, he wanted to know who his real parents were. Seeing both the desire and desperation Jane''s mother displayed, he began to wonder how his real parents must had felt, the moment he got lost.


    On their way back home, Jane revealed to him everything about her mom.


    "Mom was not able to accept my brother''s loss so it resulted to an anxiety disorder... "


    "Dad gave up, one day, in apologizing and consoling her. She just didn''t improve and became even more stubborn as the days went by. All his efforts to find my brother were all not enough for her and so their quarreling intensified. Until she broke down and ended up in a psychiatric facility for a long time. "


    "Dad finally decided to build her that home with a complete psychiatric team since she refused to go home with us. For her, our home are filled with the memories of kuya and it doesn''t help her in her recovery. "


    "Of course, isolation is not a perfect idea since a support system would have been beneficial to her. But, as I said, mom is just too stubborn. "


    Ajie felt horrified by Jane''s revelation. He just couldn''t imagine the trouble of dealing with her mom who refused to move on. He just couldn''t fathom the depth of the ties between a mother and a child, since there was nothing good enough to bring her out into an acceptance stage.


    He then remembered Allie and all the sacrifices she made primarily for their daughter. The hardest part of a mother to give up on her life is always the reluctance in leaving their children. Allie must had endured the pain of separation just because she knew that in this way, she wouldn''t be separated to their daughter forever. And now, Allie is giving up. She must be so tired already in fighting her battles alone without any support from her family. Not even him.


    He picked up his phone and called up Joshua. To his relief, his call was immediately accepted. "Josh, I''m sorry. Can we plan for her rescue?"


    "Good, you have finally thought about that. It doesn''t matter if you have already given up on your marriage. Spouses can be replaced but not her child. "


    "I''m sorry but I am blinded with so much jealousy. Anyway, let''s put it aside for now. Where can I meet you?"


    Ajie hung up after Joshua had given him the place. His thoughts were in a complete mess that talking it out would not help. Their trip was again wrapped up in silence just as how it was on their way there. When Jane finally parked on her garage, only then did he realized they were home.


    " Jane, I''m going to see Joshua. " He looked at her with a sense of guilt. He had never treated her the way she deserved it. But what could he do? She was falling for him whose loyalty was still bound to Allie. She couldn''t blame him, either. She knew that despite his marriage annulment, he was not completely free. She painfully and happily accepted the slim chance of his weakest moment when he fell into a deep anger and jealousy. She didn''t expect much from him, she was willing and prepared to accept whatever was left from his affection for Allie. She never demanded for something beyond what he could only give and this fact made him guilty. All she got was his deep respect and an effort to fulfill his promise.


    "Tell me how can I help you. Should I arrange a police back - up?" This statement even more pricked Ajie''s heart.


    "Jane, stop it. You don''t deserve this. I don''t want to hurt you more. "


    "I would willingly do this to anybody."


    Ajie shook his head and stood on his ground firmly. " No, go home and rest. You may give me a favor of calling Allie and take her home. "


    _____


    "I''m on the lobby to pick you up for dinner. " Hayri spoke through the intercom the receptionist handed him.


    "But I''m full. Hayri, I just want to


    rest." Allie no longer want to add a memory of his kindness that would only deepen her guilt.


    "No. I''ll have your dinner sent to your room. "


    "Fine, I''ll come down. " Allie knew she wouldn'' t win over an argument when it came to meals.


    "I''ll bring you home, then. Dad is waiting for you. "


    If she was close to a mirror at this moment, she could have seen herself turning pale. How could she bear the guilt in facing Mr. Dioko when he was the one who granted her the scholarship during her high school years? And he was the one who authorized the great opportunity of upgrading into another course and at the same time, provided her the most generous amount of time to balance her work and study. Not only that, she knew that he also approved Hayri''s decision to make her the primary shareholder of Rina DK''s Builders.


    "Okay. "


    Facing Mr. Dioko few minutes later, she suddenly lost all her defenses to guard her welling emotion of guilt and gratitude. The moment Mr.Dioko hugged her lovingly as a father to a daughter, she broke into tears which soon turned into a deep wailing.


    Hayri was stunned. Was he right in his suspicion that she was his dad''s mistress? He had always told himself that he wouldn''t be jealous, that he would heartily accept her for whoever was she, but at this moment while watching them hugged, he got hurt.


    "Thank you, darling, for all the inspiration you give to my son. "


    "If only you know, sir, I am too ashamed to accept your admiration and gratefulness. I certainly do not deserve it. "


    "What is it, dear? Is it because of all those things I granted in your favor? But you have greatly paid in return. Most of all, you make my son happy and that is my greatest consolation."


    Allie was not able to answer right away. How could she tell him about herself? She snapped back from her train of thoughts when his voice floated into her ears


    "Dear , by the way, are you also living in Cebu? "


    Hayri got more confused while Allie got herself into a dilemma.

 Chapter 109 - Ready To Die

    Allie felt hesitant to give out her information but then she remembered that she would be revealing herself the following day. She no longer need to hide her identity, if not for the fact that she still had not met her family again. She was almost tempted to free herself from the web of guilt right then but her desire to see her daughter first, prevailed.


    She thought she had lost all the courage to live for another day just as she lost the strength to fight back against all odds in her life lately. One thing she realized at this moment was that, love indeed hurts.


    When she finally realized that everything about her and Ajie was over, it was then that she felt that the midnight of her life had fallen. And she was no longer willing to see another morning.


    "I used to live in this city a long time ago, sir, but eversince I decided to work overseas, I lost my family." She finally thought of a safer answer. It hinted something confidential and Mr. Dioko understood then that she was not willing to talk about it.


    "Okay, dear, if one day you would be ready to talk about it, then we would be more than willing to listen. " Mr. Dioko waved a hand to dismiss the topic.


    "Sir, I wish to talk to you. " She finally lifted the hammer and nailed it. The need to explain herself why she could not accept his son suddenly surfaced and compelled her to make an apology. She wanted him to know her reasons ahead before his son would come crumbling at his lap.


    Mr. Dioko raised a brow but he was kind enough to quickly change his facial expression. "Sure, dear."


    Allie glanced up at Hayri, giving him a look that she wanted a privacy. He answered her with a frown and a curious expression which was closer to a contempt but after a second of hesitation, he stood up and left. Mr.Dioko smiled at the obvious change his son had shown. He was no longer the stubborn child who refused to accept ''no'' as an answer. Whether or not it was because of his love for her, at least it was an indication that there were indeed changes in him. His son has now grown up into a responsible person and a gentleman. Whatever may happen to him, he need not worry anymore. His son is already strong enough to stand on his own. On top of it all, he has already found someone to motivate and bring out the best in him.


    When she was sure that Hayri would no longer hear them, Mr. Dioko urged her to go ahead. "What is it, dear?"


    "Sir, everything that I have achieved, all these educational attainment I have accomplished is all because of you. How can I ever thank you enough?" She started pouring her heart out and the proof of her sincerity shone in her eyes.


    "Your success paid it all." Mr. Dioko smiled and patted her head before he continued. " I just provided you the vehicle and the fuel but it is you who take the wheels and run it."


    "But, sir, I''d be straight to the point. I can''t repay you by accepting your son''s love be-because..." She started to stammer in hesitance to continue.


    Mr. Dioko''s jaw dropped down in surprise and frustration. He felt slapped with the unexpected truth that someone from scratch would refuse such a great opportunity. He may be convicted with a crime but his name still spoke of wealth and fame. Anyone would do anything just to gain their favor but this woman who had seen the extent of what luxury they could well afford, got the heart to turn his son down?


    "Because? " He fixed his gaze at her, seeing to it that he wouldn''t miss any of her reaction. This woman roused in him a sense of interest which was too peculiar from the rest of the women of her age.


    "Because I don''t deserve him and any of your family member." Ally bent her head down as she answered softly, overwhelmed by the sense of guilt.


    "What exactly do you mean?" Mr. Dioko was not particular with statuses and social standings. Many times in his life he had proved that sweeter is the success of those who toil for it. More than anything else, he believed that success is not only for those who were born with silver spoon but also for those who work hard for their dreams. And he valued and appreciated those gems of people who could serve as role model to this morally - declining society. That was why he launched scholarship programs to scout for these rare talents and two of them as his best examples were she and Mr. Lopez.


    "I did something which broke your hearts, sir. Though, for me and the rest of the world, it is right but it destroys you and Hayri so badly."


    In every moment that passed by as Allie faced Mr. Dioko, her plans also swerved into a complete 360 ¡ã turn. She felt she could never stay a single minute in front of him in a lie or pretention. She also thought that if she would show herself as Allyza in front of Hayri, Joshua must had carried out a back - up plan to rescue her and put Hayri to the edge instead. She could never allow anything unlikely to happen to him


    He just didn''t deserve it. If he would kill her due to his anger, Joshua would record all the evidence against him and she couldn''t allow that, either. Joshua didn''t fully understand the magnitude of her gratitude for Hayri nor did he understand why she wanted him to live life to the fullest.


    "Darling, tell me straight to the point.What do you mean? " Mr. Dioko''s voice was already quivering. He may had not confirmed his speculation yet, but he was already feeling uncomfortable about it.


    "I''m not worthy of forgiveness sir, so I will not ask for it. I am already ready to die."


    Before she could continue, the urge to break down and cry harder pressed on her. The innocent and beautiful face of her daughter floated in her mind as well as Ajie''s lovestruck gazes towards Jane. She imagined them on a park, running around to play cat-and -mouse game with Chloe. She imagined them lying on the bed with her daughter in the middle, laughing at the stories each of them took turns in telling her. She imagined them anywhere together, and that anywhere was always except her. And this made her dropped down on the floor, wailing in deep agony.


    Hayri was already tempted to run at her side and picked her up but the seriousness in the atmosphere stopped him. His dad needed respect and so was she.


    With so many failed attempts, she finally got the words to declare her death sentence with shivering lips.


    "Sir, I am Alyssa, the one who gave out the blueprint of your secret passageways towards the mega lab..."


    Allie then closed her eyes tightly after saying this, waiting for her fatal verdict. Her tears came rolling down fast in an unrestrained force. She was already expecting the worst and was no longer thinking she could still go out alive.


    Mr. Dioko, on the other hand, felt greatly astounded. He froze in his seat as his eyes remained glued at her...

 Chapter 110 - You Are Forgiven

    "What did you say?" Mr. Dioko finally found his words, his gaze stuck unbelievingly at Allie.


    "Yes, sir. You heard me correctly. "


    Allie''s head remained bowed down even as she tried to take a deep breath. She was already expecting the worst. In any moment now, she was expecting a fatal blow. She prepared her mind that she could be hit hardly, kicked or mauled. She even expected the worst, to be shattered by hundred bullets. Mr. Dioko''s anger wouldn''t surely be appeased with just few slaps. Whatever his reaction would be, she could understand. Even if Mr. Dioko knew that he deserved the iron bars for a lifetime, no human could help himself from breaking into rage once he is faced with the one who caused his downfall and miseries.


    "You released the blue print or the map inside the lab. You also gave away the passwords and the codes of all the entrance and exit doors. I had a trusted security team back then and our security defense system was impenetrable for years.So it meant, you had an accomplice from the IT department. Who is he?" Mr. Dioko was already shaking in mixed emotion but he was still able to maintain his calmness.


    Mr. Dioko was expecting her to cower. Of course exposing another person would be another grave act which would endanger her life. For sure, she already had enough, and perhaps, had already learned her lessons. He stared at her closer and found that she was already trembling. There were visible fine tremors in her hands and it was enough for him to expect that she wouldn''t sing his name out. To his surprise, she straightened up and cleared her throat.


    "William Orque." Allie spoke softly but loud enough for him to hear.


    "Wait..." Mr. Dioko sharpened his gaze at her and gave out a look that he had just dug out a pot of gold.


    "Yes, sir. I guess he volunteered as one of your witnessess against your co - syndicate leaders."


    "Do you mean, he''s not just a plain housekeeper?" Mr. Dioko''s gaze got deeper as he put the pieces of the puzzle together.


    "You''re right." Allie''s voice was firm and held a power of authencity.


    "What''s the motive?" Mr. Dioko now stood up and pulled a chair right in front of her. He then sat down across her, his knees almost touching hers.


    "His wife was sexually molested by Mr. Rivera and I had the evidence. In return of what he wanted from me, I also asked him the favor of stealing the blueprint and the passcodes. At that time, he was the IT of a certain famous company but he applied as a housekeeper in your factory to take his revenge. It was easy for him to manipulate your company''s trusted IT because he was another relative of ours. And besides, a bottle of alcohol would be enough to make him rant out a secret." Allie gave him a quick glance before she continued.


    "William has suicidal instincts and it was his plan to kill himself after he would succeed in his evil intention. You know that Mr.Rivera took his guard off once inside the premises. It would be very easy to trip him off. He just needed those evidence as a back up in case his plan would fail. I was not willing then to give it to him then since that would seal his determination for revenge. Eventually, William was convinced of my greater plan and we worked it out together. And this was something Dino did not know."


    "So you mean, you know about the videos he submitted to my lawyers to prove that I was just blackmailed?"


    "We planned it all, sir. However, his only interest was the fall of Mr. Rivera while I aimed for the whole syndicate. You see, how many lives are wasted in Kamelyo and what hurt the most is that, many of them are my relatives."


    "Before I submitted the map to Dino, William resigned with the disguise of illness and he fled to somewhere faraway. I wanted him out of it because he had enough miseries of his own as the illegitimate son of my grandmother. I just thought that we would get out of the picture once Dino takes over."


    "Somehow, before I left the country, when I learned that my life was endangered, I begged him to come out when needed. We were both benefeciaries of your scholarship program since we were in elementary years. Aside from that, you saved his mother from the brink of death when you had her sent to the hospital to be treated for her illness. We are only poor but we know how to keep a sense of gratitude."


    "What held him back was the threat of Hayri to kill the one who betrayed you. And of course, because he knew who." Allie now got the courage to glance up and look at him in the eyes.


    "What made him change his mind?" Mr. Dioko was now talking to her like she was just a friend.


    "I don''t know anymore but I guess it''s because I told him everything that happens to me in a message." Allie answered while glancing at him stealthily and to her surprise, Mr. Dioko nodded in agreement.


    "He came to the office of my lawyer, one time, and presented him all those videos he got that could prove that I did not want to do this business."


    "Yes, because if you did not accept their proposal, they would kill Hayri."


    Allie then pulled out her phone from her purse and opened a locked file.


    "Is this one of those?" Allie smiled weakly as she handed her phone to him. It was a video taken during one of the closed door meeting Mr. Dioko had with Mr. Rivera.


    Mr. Dioko''s eyes widened as he watched the video in her phone. It was indeed the video which strongly supported his claim that he never wanted to do this businesss if not for the threat to kill his son. It happened when one time his company suffered a great loss that he was on the verge of bankruptcy. Mr. Rivera, one of the closest business partners he had, was the first one who got into his mind. He didn''t fail him. He even brought with him some business comrades who offered monetary assistance for his rescue. Only to realize his deceptive intentions later when he could no longer back out. Never did he expect that behind their generous offer, he would became the vessel of their black market expansion here in the country. The worst of it all was the threat that they would kill his son if he would back out.


    While at the ground and upper floors of Mr. Dioko''s factories the production of his textiles, computer and camera parts were operating, underneath the basement, the mega shabu lab was brewing its tons of methampethamine products. Through the years that they succeeded in their disguise, most of all because Mr. Dioko multiplied his services to the public. In the eyes of the people, he was very precious. He was very approachable in their times of need and he even generated medical funds for their times of sickness. He was also very thoughtful of their children''s future and it was proven by the different scholarship programs he offered in different schools. No one would ever suspect that there was something stinky behind his charitable deeds.


    "Mr. Orque''s testimonies coincide with the videos he presented. The times he planted those secret cams also coincide with Mr. Rivera''s arrival to the plant. His motive to appear as a witness is now also under investigation and all his claims are very well supported with evidences. "


    There was a moment of silence between the two of them as both were lost into their thoughts. Mr. Dioko connected the pieces in his mind and he then understood why Allie did those many things to the company. But the bitter fact out of it was that she did it because of gratitude and certainly not because she fell in love with his son.


    Their silence was broken when they heard footsteps coming towards them. Both of them knew, even without glancing that those were Hayri''s.


    "Sir, I am sorry. " Allie said as she looked into Mr. Dioko''s eyes then to the direction of Hayri. Of course, he understood now what she meant and why she didn''t deserve his son.


    "If you tell me about this before, perhaps, you will no longer live up to this moment. But you''re too brilliant to reveal yourself at this time when what''s inside my heart is all about peace and forgiveness. "


    Allie stared at him in disbelief while her tears run down in deluge into her face.


    "Come here." Mr.Dioko stood up and stretched his arms out to welcome her in a warm and forgiving embrace. Allie froze in her seat while her sobbing increased. She just couldn''t believe her eyes. Before she was able to gather her strength to come to him, he felt Mr. Dioko''s arms encircling her in a fatherly embrace.


    "Thank you, Allyza. You are forgiven."


    He said tearfully while he hugged her tightly.


    It was when Hayri reached them. "Dad?"

 Chapter 111 - One of His Mistresses

    Hayri''s gaze looked so lethal as he shifted it from Allie to his dad. At any moment, it could emit fire and brimstone to swallow her up. She did not know how much he heard but what was certain at this moment was the fact that he was angry. Before Mr. Dioko could organize his thoughts as to how he would lay it all down to him, Hayri''s phone rang. Seeing the reluctance of both as to who would speak up to him first, he pulled his phone out and answered it.


    "Joshua." Hayri said, acknowledging the one on the other line. His eyes eyes constricted as their conversation progressed and Allie took note of that.


    "Bring her in the south tomorrow night." Joshua needed not an elaboration of what he meant. One of the deepest ravine in Cebu is located in the southern part of the province. With no further instruction, he ended the call and placed back his phone inside his pocket.


    "Who''s that? Something is not right."


    Hayri knew that Mr. Dioko quoted from what he just mentioned.


    "I just want her to tell me a very good reason why she betrayed you." He answered with an obvious restraint of his temper.


    "Why does it have to be on the south?"


    "It''s simple, dad. If her answer is not satisfying enough, her grave would be just below her."


    "Hayri, I didn''t raise you to be a vindictive person. I thought you''re over with it. What causes your anger


    now?" Mr. Dioko gave out a smirk, knowing all too well that there''s something else which had just provoked his anger.


    "Dad, I can''t help myself now. I thought I wouldn''t mind it but...it hurts! I''m sorry." Hot tears stung into his eyes, forgetting that he was no longer the hurt high school lad complaining before his father the way he used to be. The sense of filial intimacy always became domineering whenever he was with him, making him want to become a child once again where he could pour his heart out and be comforted in the end.


    Allie looked at him with heavy heart. She thought she was already successful in helping him get out of his anger and revenge. What mattered to her at the moment was no longer her demise but Hayri''s life. She honestly didn''t want him to waste his future on revenge. At least, it could be her way of returning all the favor. In the eyes of the law, they were guilty but in the law of gratitude, she was insufficient.


    "Because you think she''s one of my mistresses, right?" Mr. Dioko chuckled out loudly which brought more tears to Hayri.


    "You, indeed, would have a reason to be angry but certainly not because of what you suspected." Mr. Dioko chuckled out more loudly as he ran his eyes also to Allie.


    Seeing her confused looks, Mr. Dioko made it clear to her. "Dear, Hayri thought you were one of my one - night stands."


    "What???? He''d better know the real me than that one!" She threw Hayri a frown and his tense expression softened.


    "Just what that intimate confidential matter all about then?" He raised a brow, challenging them to open up.


    "I''ll be the one to tell all about it to you tonight." Mr. Dioko butted in to dismiss the topic. He was already excited to tell them over dinner the bright sides of being behind the bars for years.


    "Hayri, is it Joshua just now, the one whom you entrusted the task of hunting Allyza down?" She looked up to him with lids pulled down heavily by guilt.


    Before he answered, he held out his hand to her and they walked slowly towards the dining room. "Yes."


    "Can you change the location?" Her request made Mr. Dioko glanced up at her as he pulled out a seat for him in the dining table.


    Allie also returned his gaze with an implied meaning but Mr. Dioko failed to catch it. "Change the location because you can''t be so sure of Joshua''s loyalty this time. He might have prepared a back - up team to turn you up to the authority."


    Hayri looked at her with guilt, thinking back of all the efforts she had made to help him quell his desire for revenge and to help him heal his pain. He knew all about the magnitude of her sincerity to redirect his course to a better life.


    "So you are already prepared to accept the fact that I might kill her with my own hands?"


    "I would understand."


    "How about all your efforts then to help me change?"


    "I want you to change, not because I want her life to be spared, but because I really want to see you in the heights of success. But whatever will happen tomorrow, if you can''t hold back your temper, then better do it safely. Don''t leave a trace. I don''t want you to go to jail."


    "If I have to make a guess, I think he will not be able to keep himself from falling in love with her." Mr. Dioko laughed out loud, making both Hayri and Allie uneasy. For Hayri, his dad drifted out of the topic but for Allie, he was getting close to a confession.


    "Dad, please don''t make a joke like that. Zheena is listening."


    "Okay, okay, let''s talk about something else. I''m sorry, dear." He looked at Allie with those amused look and Allie could not help but laugh as well.


    "I hate both of you!" He exclaimed angrily but Allie was quick to stand up and hug him from behind his chair. Hayri melted easily, earning him a rolled eyes and a sense of joy from his dad.


    The night after that was well spent in sharing all their experiences. However, the time was still not enough to catch up all those things they missed for five long years of being away from each other.


    When Hayri pulled out his car from their parking lot later, Allie got the chance to talk to Mr. Dioko alone again.


    "Sir, I am Adrian''s ex - wife. I ran away when General Alfonso exposed me out to Mr. Gregorio and Mr. Lopez. I just did not expect that I would run into your company. But looking back to it, I have no regrets. I understand better the extent of Hayri''s anger. And I understand better why he deserved a good life. You made a deal with the devil just for him to live and I don''t want it to be wasted."


    Mr. Dioko smiled at her with battling emotions of being greatly surprised and being drawn out of pity towards all that she went through. Furthermore, he was overwhelmed by the purity of her heart in treasuring those things which she felt she was greatly owed with.


    "I''m sorry to hear that, dear. But I''ve been informed that Jane is soon to be engaged to Adrian. I never thought that you are the wife who disappeared for already more than five years."


    "That''s the consequence of running away."


    "Why did you not communicate with him?"


    "I was afraid that Adrian would be also dragged into Hayri''s interrogation- plus -torture team. It would be better if they know


    nothing. "


    "I was not so sure then if Hayri was working with the whole syndicate against me." She went on, her expression displayed the fear she must had felt all these years.


    "They all think that our exposure was due to the works of the secret agents that the PDEA dispersed. What Hayri was being so mad about was the betrayal. He knew that you were the beneficiary of the scholarship program eversince you were in elementary."


    Allie could not help herself from breaking into tears again especially that the topic of Ajie''s remarriage was brought in. She still couldn''t forgive him for misunderstanding him and for all those stinging words he threw at her. No matter how good Hayri was, no matter what his sacrifices were, her heart still stubbornly cling to Ajie.


    "If only a heart can be taught, I would have loved the possibility of you and my son. That would make so happy whatever may happen to me."


    Allie was suddenly dumbfounded at the realization that Mr. Dioko was more endangered now that he decided to become a state witness. Her eyes were glued to him as her heart ached for him.


    "Don''t worry, dear. What are those money that I have for if I won''t have the best security team around me?"


    He laughed as he saw the worries in her looks.


    "Don''t worry for William, also. I will keep him with me or I''ll send him to other country of his choice."


    Allie just nodded silently. Tonight, there was still one more thorn in her heart which needed to be plucked out. Her heart sank again as she saw Hayri, the very sharp thorn in her heart, pulling his car in front of them.


    "What about him, sir? How would he deal with the knowledge that I am already married?"


    "Not anymore."


    "But..." Allie started to protest.


    "You already have too many worries for tonight. Forget it as of now. Goodnight, my dear." He patted her shoulder and smiled as Hayri came out to walk her to the other side of the car.


    ___


    Early in the morning while Allie was still asleep in her suite in Margueritta''s, her phone rang. She rubbed her eyes as she picked it up and she felt there were lots of sands inside her conjunctivae. She glanced at her watch and realized that she had just slept for only few hours. However, when she checked who the caller was, her drowsiness immediately flew away.


    It was Jane.

 Chapter 112 - Not Her Childs Fault

    "I''ll pick you up in an hour, is that okay?" Jane''s voice broke into the line, taking all her drowsiness away.


    "Just give me the address, please. I''ll be coming over."


    Allie didn''t wish an awkward time alone with her. Though she owed her much for taking care of the deficiencies of her daughter but she couldn''t help being hurt even with just a mention of her name. She shared her husband''s heart and that was a reason enough to avoid her at all cost.


    "Do you want Adrian to pick you up, instead?" This raised her brow, was she playing the masochist? Was she expecting Adrian''s sympathy or appreciation for offering this herself?


    "No need, Dr. Jane. Trust me, I wouldn''t get in your way."


    "Is it because you choose Louise over him?" Her voice was filled with restrained sarcasm.


    "Of course not. It is because I don''t want to beg for someone''s affection if it''s no longer meant for me." It was an indirect insult, if Jane picked it up. She didn''t know why but she couldn''t still shake off the confidence that Ajie still loved her.


    "I guess we better shift to another topic. If you would be more comfortable to come over here by yourself then I''ll give you the address."


    After an hour, the gates of Beautiful Haven opened up to a sprawling flower garden which would give anyone an impression of a paradise invasion. It spoke of the grandeur Jane could well create, being the epitome of beauty and brain herself. No matter how painful this reality was but this could surely be one of the reason why Ajie choose Jane over herself. Perhaps, he was just creating a rift between them to conceal his desire to let go of her.


    "Just go straight and another gate would be opened for you." The guard instructed the driver as he nodded at her, perhaps an acknowledgment of being informed ahead of her coming.


    As she stepped down from her hired car, she saw her mother running up to meet her, followed by his father. They were still far away from her but she could already heard them wailing. Their quivering voice pierced painfully into her heart and before she realized it, she was already crying harder than themselves. As she felt into her mother''s neck, the sense of bitterness and loneliness started to creep up again inside her and she cried like she was already bidding them her last goodbye. His father cried bitterly as well as he hugged her the moment she was released by her mother and only the shrill cry of Chloe, which floated into their ears, forced them to separate.


    Allie fell on her knees as she finally saw her daughter again. The pain of loneliness and the heartache of having to leave her haunted her again and she cried like it was her last moment to see her. She hugged her tightly into her chest, searching within herself the sweetness of holding her in her arms when she was still an infant. She missed her so much, so much more than she had imagined.


    For some moments, Chloe yielded into her warm embrace and Allie felt relieved. It made her believe that children would indeed recognize their parents no matter how long they would be separated. Chloe cried hard as well and her childish voice warmed her heart in thinking that she was indeed not forgotten. But all of her presumptions died a thousand deaths when Chloe wriggled away from her grasp and ran towards Jane who stood at the far side to watch them. She cried harder when Jane picked her up and Allie felt she was shot at the heart the moment she heard her own child addressing Jane as ''mommy''.


    "Mommy!" Chloe cried louder and louder as Jane comforted her, making Allie stood dumbfounded in her place.


    "Chloe! Stop it." The voice of Ajie cut her sobbing instantly. "Go back to your mommy."


    Allie saw the puzzled look in her daughter''s eyes. She glanced up to Jane and the latter also gazed back at her pitifully...Despite the hesitance in her expression, she still managed to slide down from Jane''s embrace and walked back slowly to Allie. Ajie caught her up and he knelt down in front of her.


    "Baby, we have already talked about this, haven''t we? Mommy Jane is your auntie while your real mommy is Mommy Allie. And I have been telling you that she is coming back from work one day and that she is finally coming back today."


    Allie coudn''t help herself from feeling a sense of envy. Envy for Ajie that he didn''t have to go away. Envy for being able to stay by her side. Envy for being recognized by heart that he was a parent.


    "Now, go! "


    His eyes conveyed fear in her child''s understanding and Allie was hurt with it. It was not her daughters fault that she was not recognized nor was it her fault that she grew up without a mother. Though she understood Ajie''s shame and guilt for not being able to introduce her to her as the biological mother earlier, she believed that her child must not be punished for their own shortcomings. She knew that Ajie was just playing safe. Perhaps he thought that she was not coming back anymore and that he was afraid that giving their daughter a false assurance of her return would only give their child a negative psychological impact. However, earlier mindsetting would have played a great part in the child''s acceptance of her but obviously, Ajie failed to do it.


    "Don''t confuse her anymore." Allie butted in before Ajie could give another command to scare her daughter.


    Likewise confused on what she meant, Ajie threw a puzzled look at her.


    "Let her go ahead on what she believed. It would not matter anymore." She ran her gaze through everyone around and saw at once her parent''s questioning stare. She then wondered if it would be wise to tell them the whole truth but was also afraid that they would not be able to digest it in.


    Unintentionally, her eyes fell on Ajie and for a moment, she thought that she saw hurt in it. He exactly knew what she meant. That it wouldn''t matter anymore if Chloe wouldn''t acknowledge her. She would be revealing herself to Hayri anytime even though he didn''t know that it would be tonight. Why would he? She smirked as she derided herself. Wouldn''t he feel triumphant that there would no longer be a thorn on their path?


    She then moved her eyes on Chloe and tried hard to brush her thought away from him. She wasn''t here for him and though it still hurt, she could no longer bring back the time. Some things in life are just not meant for any one, no matter how much those were desired upon.


    "Baby, it''s okay if you don''t like to call me your mommy but can we, at least, be friends?" Allie tried to coax her as soon as she met her halfway.


    Chloe nodded fearfully as her stares never left her. Her big, beautiful eyes glistened with unshed tears as she looked up to her. "Don''t be afraid, my love. Can we rather play together?"


    Chloe nodded but her tears which had long gathered in her eyes found its way into her face and it broke Allie''s heart even more. How she wished she could buy more time, enough for her daughter to retain some good memories of her. Unfortunately, it seemed that she no longer had the luxury of time.


    "Can you take me to your room and show me your dolls?" To her surprise, Chloe reached out to hold her hand and lead her to a building which looked like where they lived. Once inside her room, Allie saw her toys and was amazed at how Ajie pampered her with those expensive collections.


    "Which is your favorite one?" She asked and Chloe started to pick one after another and soon, she started to gain her daughter''s trust. She did not realized that she had already spent long hours with her as they shifted from one toy to another until the defenses of her child wore out. They played and watched videos until Chloe''s lids dropped and she was forced to tuck her into the bed.


    Lying with her in the bed, she started to regret her decision to reveal herself. She wanted to spend more time with her but the time drew onwards to the point where she had to leave already and head for the location Hayri had demanded Joshua to take her to.


    Before she left, she cried once more as she hugged her parents. She did not tell them the story, doing so would only made them worry. Though she was reluctant to go but somehow, she was at least happy that she had seen them again.


    As she was about to go out of the house, her mother was no longer able to hold her curiousity.


    "Dear, what about you and Ajie now? Is it true that you''re already with someone else?"


    She smiled bitterly at her and held her hand. "The break up was my fault, Ma, because I left but as to your question if I have someone else, that''s a different story."


    "But dear, he is soon to be engaged to..."


    "Yes, ma. I know it." She cut her statement before her mother could finish it.


    "And?" Her mother stared at her, and she knew that she wanted to see her reaction.


    "I wish them well."


    "You sure you''re not affected?" Her mother squinted as she looked at her closer, feeling uncomfortable at her indifference.


    "It''s actually bringing me down to my grave."


    And her mother stared at her, dumbfounded.


    To prevent herself from showing just how broken she was, she hurriedly turned back towards the door after a hurried farewell, only to find Ajie at the corner watching them. She got mad inwardly to realize how foolished she looked. To think, what was left now to save her dignity was only her pride and that too was already shattered. Damn it!


    She stormed out of the house furiously and went directly to where the car she hired parked, only to find it nowhere. In her disgust, she cried and she started walking towards the gate while calling the driver.


    "Ma''am, I''m sorry. Your husband told me I can go."


    "What? I have no husband!" She already shouted into the line in great disappointment while brushing her tears away in humiliation. When the guard opened up the gate, her eyes were already blurred with tears but she walked hurriedly down the road and didn''t notice that a car was parking at the side.


    "Get in!" Allie looked up to find Ajie on the driver''s seat honking his horn to get her attention. She ignored him and kept on walking towards the second gate, only to find how fool she was.


    "Ma''am, I''m sorry. I cannot open the gate for you unless I am told to do so."


    Just as she was about to argue, a hand wrapped around her shoulders and pulled her gently towards the waiting car.

 Chapter 113 - Their Home

    Ajie opened the door of his car with one hand while the other was keeping the struggling Allie to break free. He could feel the gritting of her teeth in anger and frustration but he couldn''t care less about it now.


    "I can go by myself!" Her voice was deep and sharp but no one knew how much self-restraint it took her to keep herself from shouting hysterically. If only she had the freedom to break free from her sanity and get as wild as she could, she would do all that it would take. Whatever were the ways to ease out the growing turmoil inside her heart, she would certainly die for it, if not for that rules of proper manners and conduct everyone seemed to care so much about.


    Ajie smirked at her futile declaration while he used a force to shove her inside. No matter how much strength she would strain in order to resist, she was no match against his strength.


    "Are you going to walk the distance towards the highway?"


    "I don''t care!." She sharply retorted. Her humiliation was too much that a single moment with him was like a fire to burn her up. That welling emotion was rising within her that she could no longer tell if it was anger, humiliation or pain which seared her heart the most. All that she knew was that it was simmering inside her and the only remedy to cool it down was to cry until her senses would become numb.


    Ajie stole angry side glances at her while keeping his speed at a minimal rate, trying to drag down the time. "Where are you staying?" He asked as soon as Allie mellowed down to sniffs and empty stares.


    "Drop me anywhere."


    "You have to tell me because we have to get your things and then go home afterwards."


    "I''m not entitled to your home anymore and speaking about it, you remind me of an important subject. Since you''ll be remarrying, I will be taking my family out from you. They are already outsiders anyway."


    Ajie was unprepared by the topic so it came like a wave of shock to him. That matter was really out of his mind until Allie brought it up now. He got so taken aback that he was not able to reply right away.


    "I''ll make it sure I can find a place today." Allie went ahead when Ajie remained silent.


    "What nonsense are you talking about? We only stayed at Jane''s place for safety. If you don''t like it there, we still have our apartment."


    "Your apartment, not ours." Allie stressed it out, reminding him again that she was not a part of it anymore.


    "Don''t be ridiculous. It has always been our home. I still go there everyday and 90 % of my things are still there. If not for Chloe, I would not go to Beautiful Haven every day."


    "Of course. You still go there everyday because it gives both of you the perfect privacy!" The memory of seeing them coming out from that apartment suddenly tore her heart apart, adding to the current mess of her emotions. The more she yearned to be alone at the moment to crouch and cry her heart out.


    Ajie''s eyes darkened in anger and he instantly pulled over to the side. He just couldn''t continue driving in this mad state or else he would send the car flying to the city.


    "Stop accusing me of things I did not do! And if ever I did, I would still prefer to give the place some respect since that damn memories of you still hang alive in there."


    "And may I remind you that it is you who stains our marriage, not me!" Ajie''s face was already burning in suppressed anger and his eyes gathered tears instantly as the memories of her and Hayri flooded in his mind.


    "It''s already too late to defend myself after all. Why not enjoy your freedom to believe what you like?"


    She looked at him straight in the eyes, showing him the boldness of her implied honesty.


    "Who''s kicking here to hear about the news of the freedom? Won''t you celebrate, instead, that you are already free to marry him rather than putting up a fight with me?"


    "Don''t throw back your charges at me. What is there to gain? Let''s better stop arguing who is guilty or not, none of us will believe each other anyway. Our trust for each other is already too broken." She went ahead when Ajie did not answer.


    "Go ahead with your new journey. You have my blessing. My only concern now is only about Chloe''s custody. I do not wish her to be denied with a father but I''m sure she will just be a burden to your coming children, so better leave her to my parents."


    "What are you talking about?" Ajie was already roaring in anger. He was just too weak to handle sensitive subjects.


    "Do not let me repeat. I always know you as a brilliant person."


    As quick as a strike of a lightning, Allie opened the car door at her side and slid out before Ajie could react. She quickly ran away from the car and prayed for a taxi to pass by. Unfortunately, she felt how fool she was to realize that they were still yet in an empty road and both streetsides were open fields. Where would she run? Dive in the swamps?


    Just as her prayer was answered and one taxi pulled over to her side, she was suddenly lifted up into the air. She squirmed and struggled but Ajie did not care. He dumped her back into the passenger''s seat and drove silently at a threatening speed towards their apartment.


    Once at their place, he lifted her up against her will and brought her to their bedroom. Allie was already too physically and emotionally tired to resist. Their time together, including that span during their college days, was only very short and she didn''t see this side of him yet. An amicable settlements would probably work out than provoking further an angry man.


    She sat down silently by the bed and and didn''t care to look around. Yet, in her peripheral vision, she couldn''t help noticing that the walls still had the same paintings. It also had the same furnitures except for the new sets of curtains and photo frame by the bedside table. She chuckled inwardly when she realized that the photo on the frame was taken during their stay at the hotel in Tuzla. She was smiling happily and Ajie was hugging her closely from behind.


    Her train of thoughts were disrupted when Ajie''s voice pierced into her ears. "Look at this! "


    She only moved her glaring eyes towards him and saw him standing at the side of a life-sized photo frame at one corner of the room. She momentarily forgot her dejected mood as her gaze was diverted into her full-sized portrait on the wall. lf only it would not sound silly to lift her own chair, she would perhaps throw endless praises at how beautiful she looked. Her eyes were so alive and communicating as if her soul had dwelt inside of it.


    "Do you see yourself?" He asked derisively, moving close to lift her chin when she did not answer.


    "And what''s with it?" She shrugged nonchalantly as she glared at him.


    "If I did what you accused me of, would you think Jane could have an orgasm seeing your face everywhere here?"


    She almost laugh audibly at the thought that the reason he forcibly brought her here was to prove himself. Unfortunately, she was no longer on the stage to accept bargaining.


    "Now you know that it doesn''t feel wonderful to be accused wrongly, does it?" This was the way of chiding him for his own wrong accusations against her.


    "Because Jane does not deserve your lewd accusations. She may be a rival to you but she''s not as evil as you think."


    "And only I deserve it?" She could already feel her blood rising to her temples that the fine hairs at her nape crept up.


    Before Ajie could retort, she stood up and raised her hands in surrender. "I think we should stop talking about this. What for? Our marriage is already over and both of us has already our different journeys to take. I''d better go and you also go home. Don"t let your fiancee worry about you."


    Allie bent down to pick up her purse and hurried her steps towards the door but before she could twist the knob open, Ajie hovered her and hugged her from behind. She paused and closed her eyes, taking a deep breath in frustration. Yet, when she opened her eyes, she was already too late to realize that she could no longer save herself from his lips from crushing hers. His moves were dangerous and she felt that resisting would only end in vain.


    After who knew how long did it take him to finally release her, he looked at her squarely in the eyes. "Is this what you think that Jane will be worrying so much about?"


    She looked away, stabilizing her breathing, but before it returned to its normal rhythm, he swept her off from her feet and threw her gently in the middle of the bed.


    His next steps widened her eyes but her will was too weak to resist...

 Chapter 114 - Ive Made Up My Mind

    Ajie quickly hovered over her before she could place her elbow on the bed and sit up. Her eyes widened as he suddenly pressed his body heavily on hers and captured her lips in a savage kiss. She wanted to scream in protest but she knew it would be futile. Ajie was driven by frustration, jealousy and anger and perhaps by the fact that he still loved her. She knew it was foolish of her to still presume and expect but somehow, there was still that place in her heart, which refused to let him go.


    When his hands wandered over to her sensitive areas, she could no longer bear it. Flashes of Ajie and Jane in an intense lovemaking floated into her imagination, making her feel hurt and humiliated.She just couldn''t accept the thought of him being naked and getting wild in bed with someone else. The fine hair on her skin crept up and instantly, his touch became extremely embarrassing and degrading as if he had contracted a highly contagious disease. She suddenly felt like a slut being toyed on and her ego fell headlong down the drain. She struggled to get up with all the strength she could summon and pushed him out in anger and humiliation, sending an oblivious grunt from her lips which soon turned into sobs.


    "Get lost!"


    Ajie chuckled derisively while watching her smoothening out her crumpled dress, her tears were racing down into her face.


    "Is this how you treat a husband while you sweetly spread out your legs in complete surrender to another man?"


    Allie stared unbelievingly at him, taken aback by how deep his contempt towards her. Her vision instantly darkened and her knees trembling in fury. Her face must have been flushed all over as she felt her blood rising in wrong directions, sending tingling and tightening sensations at the skin around her nape. Before Ajie could even blink, a heavy hand suddenly landed in his cheek with her shrill voice piercing in his ears.


    "How dare you defile me this way? I''m never stopping you from making an excuse to stay out of this marriage. Just don''t paint your dirt in my face to conceal your own despicable intentions!"


    Startled, Ajie touched his check unconsciously and gave out a mocking laugh. "May I remind you that it is you who defiled our marriage, my dear wife. Of course, I know why you react this way. It''s because you''re imagining me in bed with Jane, isn''t it?"


    Allie felt that it made no sense to argue with him any further so she ignored his taunting and quickly made her way towards the door. She was already one step away to turn the knob but Ajie''s strides were longer than hers, giving him the advantage of pushing the door back.


    "I hope you understand now just how I felt when I saw you kissing with him, " said Ajie as he leaned his back on the door to block her way.


    "I won''t repeat my explanation and I don''t want to argue with you anymore. Think what you like, you are entitled to your own opinion after all."


    "You have no right to step back and retreat, just because you lost the argument. I demand a brave answer!"


    Allie sighed before she figured out her next words. "Let''s end this, Adrian. Let''s stop hurting each other. Anyway, this fight is no longer necessary. We already have our separate ways."


    Seeing that Ajie did not answer as he gazed at her with those hurt eyes, she continued. "By the way, thanks for those wonderful years I had with you and thanks for giving me a daughter. Thanks for taking care of her, for taking care of the responsibility which was supposedly mine."


    She looked up with pleading eyes which were glistening with tears. "Now, let me go. I''m running out of time and I still have lots to prepare."


    Before Ajie could make a move, Ally''s phone rang, disrupting the silence which was about to engulf them. She pulled it out up from her bag and checked who the caller was. With Ajie watching her closely, she could feel his burning gaze as he read the name on the screen.


    "Hayri."


    Hayri did not speak but she knew it was him. She heard snifflings which soon turned into sobs."Hayri, what''s wrong? Please, talk to me!"


    "An unidentified gunman tried to shot him in the head but luckily, his bodyguard was quick enough to push him away and the bullet pierced his shoulder, instead."


    "Where''s your dad now? How is he?"


    Allie was already trembling though he expected that this would happen. She knew his enemies were only waiting for the right time to execute their revenge. His decision to turn against them in becoming the state witness was a form of betrayal his enemies could never possibly forgive.


    "I can''t tell you as of this moment. Zheena, I''m so scared." Hayri sobbed loudly after saying this, breaking the heart of Allie, as well.


    She held out her phone in her ear until his sobbing became low sniffles, totally forgetting that Ajie stood before him watching her every reaction.


    "Hayri, I''m just here," said Allie as his sobs had fully ebbed down, unaware of the rising anger and jealousy in Ajie''s heart.


    "I know but I can''t be with you now. See you later, my love."


    "I''m just a call away," she answered, her thoughts drifting back to the confession she did with Mr. Dioko.


    Her heart went out to him in a much greater magnitude, now that she was able to talk to him personally. She may had heard of his kindness a long time ago already but now, she was already able to testify it herself. His thoughtfulness, generosity and that greatness of his heart were even deeper than how she thought it to be.


    While pondering on this, she did not know that tears were already streaming down her face, sealing up the last stretch of Ajie''s temperance.


    She was brought back to reality when Ajie punched the door, sending her off her feet. She gazed at him in a puzzled expression, enraging him even more.


    "What''s wrong with you?" she foolishly muttered.


    "My goodness, Allie, is that how much you have forgotten me that you can''t even feel I am hurting? Doesn''t it occur to you a bit that you are breaking my heart with those tears you shed for Louise?" A loud kick at the door followed after he said this, sending fine shivers in Allie''s skin.


    Her heart sank further when she realized what made Ajie flare up. Yet, no matter who between the two of them, and how much both of them were hurting, that couldn''t change the fact that their marriage was already broken.


    "It doesn''t matter anymore. Don''t hurt yourself unnecessarily. Focus on your new life with Jane and do everything to be happy."


    "Don''t worry, now that Mr. Dioko''s life is threatened, my chance to live gets slimmer. However, there is only one thing I ask from you, hand Chloe''s custody over to my parents. I don''t want her to become a burden in your new home."


    "Why would you be so stupid to reveal yourself?" Ajie said, his teeth gritting in anger.


    This made Allie laughed derisively. Did he even care? If he did, whatever it would take, he would never file the annulment.


    "I''m already tired of hiding, Adrian. No one knows about the loneliness and fear I have suffered, not even you."


    "I''m tired of wearing this mask and I am already so guilty in fooling everyone around. I''ve made up my mind and I''m ready to die."

 Chapter 115 - The Turn Over

    Ajie did not hold her any longer. Whatever made him change his mind, she couldn''t care less. All she wanted at the moment was to break free from him and prepare all the necessary things prior to her revelation. She wanted to change the plan she had earlier with Joshua inorder to save Hayri but no news came either from Mr.Dioko or Hayri himself. Obviously, Mr. Dioko was not able to tell his son about her revelation because Hayri did not give any hint during their conversation a while ago.


    After Allie settled everything including her purchase of a ready-for-occupancy unit in a certain subdivision, she proceeded to Atty. Manloza''s office for the finality of her will and testament. Although she held no doubt about Ajie''s kindness and faithfulness to his responsibility as a father and as a son-in-law, she just couldn''t help herself from getting afraid of the influence he might have from outside factors. She wanted to leave everything in writing.


    Having no time left to go back to see her family, she left everything to Atty. Manloza including those documents she still need to process in the purchase of the house and lot as well as the car. She wanted to see to it that her family could enjoy the kind of life she had always dreamed for them. She wanted to make sure that they would be able to reap the fruit of her hard labors.


    After all the details including the turnover of the properties she bought were taken care of, as well as the separate cash she had prepared for the purchase of new furnitures for their new home, she called up Joshua.


    Part of her was still wishing that their meeting tonight would be cancelled due to Mr. Dioko''s physical condition and the other part of her was believing that Hayri could no longer wait to crush her. After all, his father''s fate rooted from her betrayal.


    "Josh, has Louise called up to cancel the meeting?" she said, while her heartbeats were accelerating.


    "The opposite. He wants me to make it sure that I can bring you to him tonight."


    She took a deep and long breath to calm herself down before she spoke again. "I''m ready."


    Not long after that, she was already with Joshua inside a dark-tinted car. After placing on her a bullet-proof jacket, Joshua drove towards the south silently, too absorbed in his fear that his backup plan would fail. All the while he was into this task, he was already bristling with both anger and pity towards this cousin. He never wanted to come up to this extent but Allie was just too stubborn. Well, he understood her points but how could he feed her to a hungry lion''s mouth?


    As they were approaching towards the agreed place, he called up someone and Allie could tell that it was Hayri. "Sir, we are closer to the location now."


    "There''s a change to the location, Josh. Proceed to Brown Hills Mountain Resort."


    "Brown Hills?" asked Joshua''s assistant who was sitting at the back.


    "Damn this guy! Why is he changing the location? It seems I underestimated his cleverness."


    "What are we going to do now, sir?"


    said the assistant who was worrying that there backup plan may fail.


    "He can never outwit me. If he wants direct assault, let him be!"


    "But sir, Brown Hills is one of their properties. How can our men get inside? It''s a private resort."


    Allie felt alarmed as she listened to their conversation. She realized that Joshua wouldn''t turn her over, indeed, as easily as how she requested it to be.


    "Josh, you''re not honoring our agreement. I thought it was clear enough that I don''t want Hayri to be charged with a criminal case. Do I need to repeat that I owe him too many things?" Allie said calmly but her heart was already in turmoil.


    "Dream on, my dear cousin. Are you not thinking about your family?"


    Joshua glowered on while throwing a quick glance at her.


    "But..." Allie started to protest but was stopped by Joshua''s next statement.


    "Your good husband is already there with the police troops, dispersing all throughout the area."


    "What? Why do you have to involve him in this? He doesn''t care anymore, Joshua. He''s already engaged!"


    "But he did...only that this Louise bastard outwit us. He changed the location in the last minute."


    Allie sighed in relief, happy that Hayri must had realized the risk and that he could be rather cornered. This meeting with him would surely be an evidence to his crime and she didn''t want it to happen. Her only hope was that Hayri would be able to forgive her. This hope was a bit promising but collapsed when Mr. Dioko was attempted with murder.


    Joshua called up another number and placed his earset as soon as it rang. "How are you all there!"


    "The location is changed and we are scattered now in the slope surrounding Brown Hills," answered Ajie who''s identity was undisclosed to Allie. She sat beside him and could clearly see who he was calling and who were calling him.


    "Who told you about the change of the location?" he asked, gritting his teeth in annoyance.


    "It''s an order from Dino," Ajie answered confidently.


    "Do you think he is reliable?" he countered, feeling uneasy about this sudden change of plan. He regretted the moment he entrusted the backup plan to Ajie. He really felt something could go wrong in this set up.


    "Of course, if you still remember, he leads the team who toppled down the syndicate''s glory."


    "Okay, then. Are you sure you are well-covered?" Joshua confirmed, worrying that Hayri''s men may had just been watching them and they would look like some idiots on a failed mission.


    "Sure of that. We crept up here when the night fell into a pitch darkness."


    "We''re now entering the area,"Joshua


    announced gloomily, tears of anger and compassion now welling in his eyes as he thought he was now about to turn his dear cousin to a crocodile''s mouth. He may had a backup team around but how could he be so sure about Hayri''s own strategic planning? Of course, he knew he''s not just a brawn who would execute some plan without thinking. Someone like him was expected to be very good in coming out clean in every crime he plotted.


    He looked at Allie and seeing her so calm while closing her eyes, made him sob. He stopped right in front of the big gate of the resort to hug her tight. How could she stay calm in this situation?


    Allie was a bit surprised to see his tears but she quickly understood when she saw the gate in front of them opening up. She hugged him back and cried as well.


    "Thank you, Josh. Resign from this kind of job after this. I have left you a small fortune, enough for you to start a business." she said in between her sobs.


    They hugged for a long while until the guard knocked in their car''s window, gesturing for Joshua to go forward.

 Chapter 116 - The Turn Over 2

    The drive from the gate towards the hilltop was the loneliest trip that Allie had traversed. Who wouldn''t feel that way when she knew that the gates of death were already waiting to welcome her? When on their way she had managed to keep calm, this time that power just blew away. Her heart fluttered and suddenly, her breathing became heavy. She took deep breaths and exhaled them slowly but none of these efforts comforted her. Suddenly, her reverie was cut by a call.


    "Joshua, I see you already. Please tell your lady that I am already dying to see her." came the voice of Hayri from the other line.


    This sank Allie''s heart even deeper. All those efforts she did to help Hayri step out of revenge just didn''t make sense. However, she still tried to understand. It wasn''t enough that his father was already imprisoned for five years, his plague was added when someone from the syndicate attempted to kill him.


    "Where am I going to bring her?" asked Joshua who got annoyed by what he said.


    "Just go up and stop at the open cottage which overlooked the cliff."


    "Got it." said Joshua who tried hard to keep himself from cussing at him. He murmured to himself and cursed him for his cunning way of keeping himself away from the possibility of being betrayed. Hayri really did not trust him and for sure, he trusted no one. It was so clever of him.


    "Blindfold your lady. Be sure you have a clean handkerchief." Hayri chuckled, intensifying Joshua''s anger. It''s not enough that he would torture and kill her, he also did the pleasure of mocking her.


    "I don''t have anything to blindfold her, " lied Joshua who''s irritation reached up already to the moon.


    "I''ll have someone to hand you over a piece of cloth."


    "Alright."


    "Joshua, what is she wearing?" came another of Hayri''s question which almost tempt him to get out from the car and punch him. What did he want? Let Allie wear a transparent nighties?


    "A jacket and a pair of Jeans."


    "Okay, I''ll also send something for her to wear."


    Wiith this, Joshua''s temperance had already spilled out from the brim and he didn''t care anymore if Hayri would shot him dead ahead of Allie.


    "Sir, you will be killing her. Why still the need to let her change?" he already yelled in anger at him and in pity for Allie.


    "Be patient, Joshua. Do as I say. I already know that you betray me. You are the lady''s cousin. Well, I''m thankful about it."


    Joshua instantly shivered in fear. He right away ended the call and fumbled Ajie''s name in his phone and called him up. "Where are you now?"


    "Just at the slope of the hill, below that cottage at the top."


    "Be ready, we are here." Joshua instructed, staring at the same time at the woman who was walking towards their direction.


    "Got it." answered Ajie, who''s voice was louder than a whisper.


    The woman stopped beside the window in Joshua''s side and handed him a box with wrapped, red handkerchief on top. Joshua accepted and handed it over to Allie. Without delay, Allie opened it. Not waiting for a request from her, Joshua and his assistant got out of the car to give her a privacy.


    To Allie''s surprise, she wondered why Hayri choose a very expensive dress. Even if she could not see it well, the softness and the texture of the fabric gave out the hint. There was also a pair of stilletos and to her another amazement, it fitted her size well. Then, as she was about to clean up the mess of the wrappers, a smaller box fell down. She picked it up and saw that those were a set of jewelries! Allie couldn''t believe it anymore. Was he really mocking her? Did he ever think to grant her the experience of wearing a beautiful and expensive dress with matching shoes and jewelries before she''d die? And there was still more, a make up set! Allie sneered at the thought of it. Where was she going? To a party or to the gates of Hades? She never expected that Hayri could be this despicable. If he wanted it, why would she deny it to him? Well, she''d see if his head wouldn''t spin if what he would see would be the most beautiful version of her. When everything''s done, she opened the door and stepped out of the car.


    Joshua laughed in contempt as he looked at her from head to toe. What kind of a person Hayri was? Was he really like that? Was that his style? To bring out a victim in her or his best composure before he would drag her to the slaughter house?


    ____


    Meanwhile, Ajie and the troops with him were already impatient. Though he was well-wrapped in his jackets, he was still constantly slapping the mosquitoes which kept biting his face! Aside from his personal concern was the fact that Allie''s parents joined them. No matter how they persuaded them to just stay out of the danger soon, they even wanted to be at the front line. They said they had something important to tell that would save their daughter. Such was the irony of the situation!


    The call from Joshua made them resume to their alert position. Any minute from now on, the drama would begin. Allie''s parents were already sniffling which worried Ajie greatly. His heart was already almost jumping out of its ribcage in fear and pain that Allie must really had to go through this ordeal. Every second that ticked by was like a countdown to his own doom. He couldn''t imagine seeing her tortured and killed by Hayri. He had already made up his mind. Once he would see through the binoculars that Hayri would already start to hurt her, he wouldn''t care for his life anymore. He would destroy the set up they had planned ahead. He would directly run up towards them and kill Hayri instead. Come what may!


    Ajie''s eyes got misty while he silently planned about his assault. Allie just didn''t understand. He still loved her, only that he was blinded with anger. And who would not? What kind of a husband would he be if he would not be affected by seeing her wife kissing with another man? What kind of a heart did he has if he wouldn''t be affected by the sweetness they displayed during their graduation party? Why wouldn''t he know about it? He had booked the same company who made the video coverage during that day! Yes, he was touched by the messages but his blood boiled at the way Allie submitted to his hugs and kisses. He even bought with a double price the unedited video coverage and that was the bottom line of his hatred.


    He was guilty at the way he treated Jane. She, herself, knew that she was just a cover up, a balm to his bleeding heart. But what could he do? She, herself, was widely open to the fact that she was a very willing victim. Not only that, she promised to never complain. He didn''t want to do it, didn''t want her to live in lies. She was so good to him and how could he be unfair to her? However, this sense of gratitude made him give the consent to the engagement plan.


    His reverie was halted when a sweet piano instrumental floated into the air. If he was not mistaken, it was the heart-piercing Hungarian Sonata of Richard Clyderman. At that moment, he was lying prone on the slope together with the scattered troop. He lifted his head towards them and his puzzled look met the eyes of the closest person next to him.


    "What''s that?" the police next to him whispered.


    Ajie did not say a word. However, in his mind he couldn''t help but ask if this was the way Hayri did before he killed his previous victims. Was it his style to entice them sexually through appealing music before he would kill them?

 Chapter 117 - Turn Over 3

    Just then, a light flickered at the top of the slope, just few meters away away from where the troop sprawled. They looked at each other then cast their eyes towards Dino, who positioned himself at the front line. He personally lead the troop in rescuing Allie due to the fate he had dragged her into. He never expected that she would go to this extent; if ever something would happen to her, he would never forgive himself. When Ajie came to talk to him about this, he could not help cursing himself for allowing this horrible thing to happen to his bestfriend.


    Furthermore, he could not keep himself from somehow blaming her for making such a stupid decision. Why would she feed herself to the lion when she knew she would be too helpless to survive? She had ran away for already five years, why not run to another hiding place? However, Ajie was right to suggest to let her be. They needed the evidence against Hayri in order to end this ordeal Allie was plunging herself to. Though the reports about his bloody interrogations and revenge plots had already called their attention a long time ago, no strong evidence would point out to him as the mind behind it. That night was the moment, the very night the full glory of the Diokos would completely crumble down upon his hand.


    The flickering light they all thought as just some sort of light reflectors suddenly spread out into a long stream of a live video coverage. Constricted eyes glued into it in absolute bewilderment as the scene opened to beautiful sceneries around the place in broad daylight. It then slowly broke into splendid picturesque of sunsets by the sea and beyond the hills until the night took over the grandeur of daylight. The Hungarian Sonata which blended beautifully with the video presentation softly faded away and was change into a thrilling, love- themed ballad. Ajie and Dino''s eyes, together with Allie''s parents and the rest of the troop, grew even wider when what came next was a run-through of Allie and Hayri''s photos. Those may not be intimate ones but their happy portraits together was more than enough to break Ajie''s heart.


    Soon, all gazes fell on Ajie and though he, himself, was clueless to what''s really happening, he could feel that everyone wanted to know what exactly was going on. Before he could think of some ways to divert their questions, the screen changed into another scene. Allie was then seen stepping down from a car, wearing a tight-fittng dress. It''s burgundy shade deepened her fair complexion and it''s body-hugging design outlined perfectly the countour of her shape. With the enhancing touches of her make up, she looked so stunningly beautiful even if it did not conceal the fear in her eyes. They were wondering at first if it was a recorded video but her beautiful, frightened looks gave way to the reality that it was a live video coverage.


    ____


    Joshua grieved as he looked at Allie while she walked towards him. The mockery of Hayri''s plot made his blood boil even more briskly. He felt his heart was about to burst, with its complicated feeling of anger, fear and pity. He reached into the pocket of his jacket and felt the smoothness of the cold, metallic object he kept ready for the encounter. Even before they were on their way, he had already decided to do this. Since this foolish cousin of his made such a silly decision to die, then he would shot Hayri to death before he could fire his own bullet.


    "Josh, let''s get this done with. Tie me the blindfold now." Allie said as he handed the cloth to him.


    Joshua nodded, his eyes fixed on her. "Cous, I didn''t know you''re this beautiful."


    Allie, somehow, managed to let out a chuckle. "Too bad the discovery comes late already."


    "It''s not," Joshua protested.


    "Josh, please. I don''t want Hayri to go to jail. I have already explained everything to you, haven''t I? It''s all my fault. I hope you get my point," begged Allie as she cupped his face with both of her hands to ensure he was listening.


    Joshua smirked. If only she was a man, he would surely punch him to death if that would open her eyes to the great folly she had made. "You must be really crazy..."


    "Josh..." Allie tried to beg further. She understood that Joshua had an alternative plan to save her. She was too late to realize that. She was presuming that he wouldn''t betray his boss who had employed him for many years already but during his phone calls a while ago, she realized how stupid this move was.


    "Shut up! I''m already getting so impatient. Let me tie you the blindfold now." Joshua glowered as his anger was intensified, making him wish his eyes could emit fire to show her the depth of his anger.


    He then held up the red handkerchief into her eyes and tied it gently around her head. As soon as it was firmly fixed, Allie held his arm like a bride to his groom on that aisle to matrimony.


    To Joshua''s amazement, the paved path towards the cottage was carpeted. His eyes were blurry as they walked the distance towards the cottage. The moment was now getting nearer and he just couldn''t predict who would come out as a victor.


    The cottage was built in a native design. The roof was made of Nipa leaves and the beams were made of coconut tree. It stood in its four pillars, enclosed with waist-high walls, leaving all sides open.


    As Joshua and Allie reached the entrance, Joshua''s eyes widened in confusion as he saw Hayri standing at the center in a grey suit with a long burgundy tie, its shade was similar to Allie''s dress. Mr. Dioko was there as well, standing at the corner. Joshua blinked to ensure that he was not dreaming, because as he stared at them, he did not see any hatred and fury in their eyes, but love and tenderness. Another thing which he noticed was a bouquet of red roses in a table not far from Hayri. And wait, he just came to realize it, the whole cottage was heavily-decorated with flowers!


    Hayri gestured for Joshua to come closer and to his amazement, Hayri smiled at him, hinting with his eyes that he wished him to step aside. He turned to look at Mr. Dioko and the latter gestured for him to stand next to him.


    Before he left her and walked to the side, he lowered his head and whispered in her ear. "Cous, he''s here."


    Allie nodded and Hayri could see that her hands were shaking. She stood for a long while and tried to speak but she seemed lost at words so Hayri broke the silence.


    "My dear, why did you hide it from me?" said Hayri as he looked at her with tender eyes.


    She stuttered at first but as she was able to overcome her fear, she spoke thoroughly. "If I did, you will end up in jail."


    "What''s the difference between telling me about it before and telling it to me now?"


    "Hayri, I''m sorry. I was afraid. I want to live for my family." Allie said as she began to cry.


    "And you''re not afraid anymore?" Hayri followed up his question another question.


    Allie sobbed loudly this time before she answered. "I couldn''t bear the guilt anymore and I am tired of hiding."


    "What do you expect me to do?" asked Hayri once more.


    Allie did not answer right away and Hayri watched her take off her bag and fumbled on its zipper. She then pulled out a 9mm pistol and handed it to him.


    "Use my gun, Hayri. And before you do it, take me to another place where we no one can see you. Somebody out there may use the evidence against you. Don''t do it here. I honestly desire that you will go on living a peaceful and succesful life," Allie whispered but loud enough to let everybody hear her.


    "Why not here?" said Hayri as he looked closely at her pistol, amused at how come she was able to secure this at such a short time.


    Watching Hayri closely as he flipped the gun over, Joshua positioned himself with his ever alert eyes, his hand creeping inside his jacket to hold the gun.


    Ajie and Dino, on the other hand, climbed up simultaneously towards the cottage...

 Chapter 118 - I Am the Loser

    Joshua was already restless as he hooked his finger around the trigger, eager to pull and aim it towards Hayri. Allie should stay unscathed, even if it would cost his life. Dino, on the other hand, was quick to find a place where he could aim his riffle at an angle that would hit Hayri on his thigh. He didn''t aim to kill him as Hayri was not a trained killer. He just planned to swerve his bullet away from Allie and have his team take care of him. If he would fight back, then that would be the beginning of a real trouble he would ever regret in his whole lifetime.


    Ajie pulled up beside Dino, preparing himself to run towards Allie as soon as he''d gave the signal. Never in his life had he held a gun to shoot a human being and that night was his first. Despite his fear and worries, Dino had somehow persuaded him to make a wise step and wait for his command.


    "My dear, out of those five years, were those caring and friendship that we shared, were nothing but lies? I don''t even call it as a mere friendship, but a very special kind of relationship." There was hurt in Hayri''s voice which broke Allie''s heart.


    "It''s all real, Hayri. I even wished you were someone else, and not someone who is plotting for my life."


    "I also wish you were someone else,"


    said Hayri which made Allie conclude that he was indeed decided to take his revenge on her. If she was someone else, he would not think twice in killing her. But since she was not, it will leave him a sense of guilt but he still wanted to do it.


    The thought of the said relationship made her sob louder. She covered her face with her both hands, her shoulders moving vigorously. She cared and served him more than she did with Ajie because she had taken care all that he needed, from his food to his daily wear. Hayri,likewise, did his part; he never allowed him to go anywhere without him as her chaperon. He took care of all her needs including the purchase of her clothes and other personal matters. There may not be intimacies between them as lovers except for Hayri''s stolen kisses, but he was always loud about the fact that he loved her.


    "Thanks for the wonderful friendship, Hayri. Thanks for loving me and sorry that it has to be a wrong person. I will always bring the sense of gratitude down to the grave with me."


    To Allie''s surprise, Hayri suddenly chuckled and it made her incline her head towards him, forgeting that she was on a blindfold.


    "Not on the grave, my love, but may it be in the road to forever...," Hayri said as he placed down her gun on the table and pulled her close to him in a tight hug.


    "Road to forever?" she wondered as she broke herself free from the familiar hugs of Hayri.


    "Yes, road to forever...with me?"


    It took her some time to process what he meant, her loud heartbeats and nervousness dulled out her senses. She remained gaping at his direction until she heard a noise from somewhat a tearing of a paper.


    "May I have your hand?" she heard Hayri spoke afterwards.


    She did not move, her mind and heart were in a total mess to grasp anything. However, she felt his hand reaching out to hers. He then lifted it up to his lips and kissed it.


    What was going on? What could be the meaning of this irrational behavior of Hayri? Was this a form of mockery? Did he usually do this sweetness before crushing his victims?


    While her mind wandered off to her guessing game and presumptions, she felt Hayri was slipping off a ring into her finger. Her heart beat even louder that she could almost hear it pounding against her chest.


    "Hayri, please don''t play on me anymore. Aren''t you dying to kill me already? Do it fast or else the suspense would kill me ahead, "she said, her impatience growing already.


    She heard Hayri chuckled again then she felt his hands untying the knot of her blindfold. As soon as the blindfold slipped off, the tender looks and the smile in Hayri''s face greeted her eyes. He then picked the bouquet of red roses in the table and held it out to her.


    "As an answer to your last question, I admit that you win and I am the loser. You''re so smart enough to tell me the truth when I have already known you so well and have deeply love you so well."


    "With all the witnesses here tonight, I am declaring to the world that I have forgiven and forgotten all the pain you have caused us. And as how dad call it, you have been a blessing in disguise into our lives."


    "And tonight, I am declaring that whatever may happen in the future, I will never be your silent adversary again but your .. lover."


    As soon as Hayri ended his words, a thunderous round of applause was heard and Allie''s eyes almost popped out when a screen lit up. The scene then showed a crowd whose ladies were all dressed in different cocktail attire. The men were either in formal business attire or in coat. They were all standing behind the rows of tables covered in burgundy and white tablecloth. They all cheered for them as their applause took another round.


    Then the scene shifted into a dark area, which appeared to be like a cliff. There were lots of men crawling up towards the top.Some were all carrying riffles, some were holding guns. As Allie looked at the faces of those men, in one of the corners, she recognized the most unexpected person she never anticipated to see tonight. He was holding a riffle while he waved his arms like he was giving out an instruction.


    Dino?

 Chapter 119 - The Game

    As Allie was pondering on what was really happening, Mr. Dioko approached them with wide-stretched arms. She instantly fell into his embrace and cried.


    "Sir, thank you for convincing him," she said while looking over her shoulder to cast Hayri a quick glance.


    Mr. Dioko chuckled softly, his voice sounded like music in her ears. "I did not have to convince him. He had long forgotten about the revenge the moment he knew you though the news was, undeniably, shocking."


    Allie smiled despite her struggles to stop crying. "I really did not expect."


    "I understand," replied Mr. Dioko in his most tender tone.


    Suddenly, Allie jolted out from his embrace as she remembered something. "Sir, what about your wound?" she asked, her eyes fell on his shoulders.


    "It''s just a minor wound," he smiled,


    "and by the way, I hope to hear you addressing me as dad sooner."


    Allie gasped as she was moved by the fact that she was warmly accepted into their family, however, her heart sank when the reality of her status immediately surfaced. She tiptoed and whispered something into Mr. Dioko''s ears.


    "Sir, does he know that I am married?"


    "Was married," the answer came right through when Hayri answered from her back."


    She turned to look at him in the eyes, wanting to know the answers of those many questions which instantly came arising in her mind.


    "Zheena, how I wish I could ask you at this very moment to marry me but I know you need time. Time to consider accepting me and start all over again. Dad is holding me a thanksgiving party tonight and so we would like to use this chance to announce how much you mean to me," Hayri''s words flowed out fluently without being cautious that his dad, together with the crowd, was listening.


    "I don''t deserve all this kindness, Hayri, " she exclaimed, as that overwhelming emotion flooded her eyes once more.


    "Starting tonight, I don''t want to hear that again. It doesn''t matter who deserves and who do not. What''s more important is that I honestly love you, Zheena."


    Before Allie could recover from the surge of emotion which sailed her through and that sense of awkwardness at having an audience in that declaration of his love, General Alfonso walked in. With a big grin on his face, he held out his hand to congratulate her and before he started to talk further, he waved his hand in command and the scene on the screen immediately shifted back towards the scattered troop in the slope.


    "Dino, gather up your men and bring them to the garden, few meters away from this cottage. I''m sorry that I involve you in playing this little game. I am so happy of this decision that Louise comes up with. Aside from the fact that he is the son of a dear friend, we should feel relieved that another burden is taken out from our shoulders."


    A burst of laughter was heard in the background, perhaps amused of the action made by the troop, only to be told that it was just a little game.


    "Shall we go now?" Mr. Dioko said as he wrapped an arm around his friend, guiding him back to the dining hall where their hundred guests were waiting.


    Hayri wrapped his arm also around Allie as he began to walk forward but Allie stood still, her eyes were fixed on Joshua who stood in a corner, forgotten by the frenzy of the moment.


    Having seen the two who glanced at his direction, he stepped towards them and Allie did not wait for him to come closer. She ran towards him and fell on his neck. No words came out from her mouth except for an instant and loud sob. Joshua easily got carried on, he was already brooding about this from the very moment that Allie asked him to present her to his boss. He cried hard as well, never expecting that his foreseen event that night would turn out differently. Never did he expect that his cousin would stand alive before him that night without a bloody fight.


    When Allie finally loosened herself from him, Hayri stepped in. "I''m sorry for the painful surprise, Josh. If only I had known earlier, I would have told you a long time ago to stop the hunt. Who knew then that the woman I wanted so much to crush in revenge, is the same woman I am so in love with," said Hayri in a cracked voice.


    Joshua stared at him unbelievingly, never expecting that he could be this emotional. Until this very moment, he couldn''t still seem to believe that the tough and deadly boss he once knew could come so soft because of a woman. What if all of these were just a game to outwit them all for the evidence they were too eager to charge against him?


    "Beginning tomorrow, I will be giving you another job. Trust me, it will be a decent and honorable job this time."


    Joshua still did not move, too confused on where to place his trust. But then Hayri''s voice broke into his train of thoughts once again.


    "Keep her gun, Josh. A lady shoudn''t possess things like that. Dispose all the weapons that we have, including mine. No one should hold any of those, except the guards."


    Joshua was finally convinced and he nodded in respond to Hayri''s request. He then follow after them as they walked towards the venue of the party.


    ____


    After everyone heard General Alfonso''s command through the screen, some dropped themselves to the ground and cussed, so disappointed to have placed themselves in a situation where their hearts almost jumped out in fear, only to be told later that everything was a joke. Others just giggled, infecting others with their laughters. So what if they went into action, they were rewarded anyway with a sumptous dinner buffet?


    Few others who knew the real story, sympathized with Ajie, including Dino and Allie''s parents. Their hearts were rent in two as they saw him slumped down in the dark, stiffling his urge to sob. He watched the video from the very beginning without blinking and saw Hayri''s declaration of his love for his now ex-wife. He may had not heard Allie saying ''yes'' to him, but he knew she would...soon. He gave up on her due to his anger and that couldn''t be simply undone. All he could do at the moment was to break down and cry.


    Remembering the presence of her parents-in-law, he went to talk to them despite his heavy heart. "Ma, Pa, go up with Dino. I''ll be leaving ahead."


    "No, son. We are going with you,"


    said Allie''s mother who instantly rubbed his back to comfort him. They may had not known the whole story yet but Ajie was a good son to them. They believed that he had a good reason to file for the annulment, Allie had left and was unheard for almost six years after all.


    "I need to be alone, Ma, Pa. Please, go. Allie would be happier to see you there."


    Allie''s parents understood that he needed privacy so they no longer insisted.They looked at Dino who felt helpless, himself, on how to deal with the situation. He was happy for Allie but he was also hurting for Ajie. He may had not known the reason for their marriage annulment but he could feel his pain at the moment and his fear when he first came to ask for his help.


    "Nay, Tay, I cannot allow Ajie to go home alone in his emotional state right now. Just please go up with the team while we will go down and head home."


    Allie''s parents finally agreed after some time of convincing. They took turns in hugging and assuring Ajie while sniffling in their tears before they left him in Dino''s company.


    The moment they disappeared, Ajie ran towards the foot of the slope despite the pitch darkness while Dino was following. He seemed to disregard the possibility that he could stumble upon a rock or fall into a pit. All he wanted at the moment was to unleash an energy in order to calm out his raging emotion. As soon as he felt safe from the video monitoring, he dropped himself to the ground and wailed.

 Chapter 120 - The News

    The bitter sound of Ajie''s cries echoed through the dark and lonely hills, intensifying the melancholy of the moment. Dino, who was silently watching him in his agony and his bitter cries, stood at the side, debating within himself on what was the best way to console him.


    Back then, Dino was a witness of how their young love had sprung up until he heard that he left in anger. He got so hooked up with his operations and the next thing he knew was that Allie got pregnant. He was then informed later about their coming marriage, only to hear afterwards that Allie ran away.


    It was his deep regret that he did not communicated much with Allie. He allowed her to get drowned helplessly in her fears. He left her alone in finding solutions in saving herself and her family from the revenge of Louise, only to be shocked more with the news later that she would be revealing herself that night. He was haunted with guilt and pity for his bestfriend but got frightened and enraged for a while for what he concluded as astupidity on her part. Thankfully, it ended well for her to his surprise, but to Ajie, it was a pronouncement of doom.


    Seeing Ajie getting calmer this time, he placed an arm around him as he sat down on the grass beside him. Ajie gave him a quick glance and a weak smile though he remained silent for a long while.


    Finally, Dino decided to break down the silence or else he would fell off asleep while waiting for him to open up. "What''s your plan now?"


    "Perhaps, go ahead with the engagement with Jane," answered Ajie whose glints in his eyes implied that the decision was a rather foolish one.


    "Does that decision makes you happy?"Dino asked, allowing Ajie to consider the consequence of this step.


    "Jane has always been a good friend and a confidante. I''m comfortable with her around."


    Dino expelled out a long sigh. This man had never learned his lesson, he thought. It was this foolish presumption of his that caused his emotional chaos now.


    "Don''t make a hasty decision. If possible, try to talk it out with Allie."


    Ajie smiled sardonically. "Would she still talk to me?"


    "Why not? Your child is still in your care."


    With this, Ajie''s eyes glowed in relief as if he was able to gather up ideas for what little he held in his hand. Thinking that Dino would also be dragged out in his drama, instead of utilizing his time to a more productive activity or perhaps, his family or personal time, he stood up and gestured for him to do the same.


    "Are we going now?" asked Dino who was still doubting whether or not he was already feeling better.


    Ajie smiled weakly and hugged him afterwards, thanking him for giving him his shoulder to cry on. There were no events or incidents in the past which could link and build up their friendship but in respect for him as Allie''s husband, he reached out to him as a bestfriend.


    "Let''s go," Ajie finally said after some emotional moments with him.


    Heaving out a sigh of relief, Dino smiled and wrapped his arm around his shoulders again as they walked towards their parked car, not too far from where they were. Yet, just as Dino turned on the engine, Ajie''s phone rang.


    "Adrian, where are you?" Jane''s worried voice floated from the other line.


    "With Dino." His tone was cold and.obviously uninterested.


    Taking the hint from his brief answer, Jane was silent for a while, perhaps, hesitant to push herself. She knew that Ajie didn''t want her company at the moment but she longed to give him comfort and sympathy. She and her dad were one of those special guests watching Hayri''s declaration of love and forgiveness. And she understood well that it hit Ajie like an arrow of death.


    "Still down there?" she meant somewhere near the slope.


    Ajie was a bit surprised but then he remembered that his dad was Mr. Dioko''s bestfriend. Important events like tonight, should always be graced by their presence.


    "About to go home."


    "May I go home with you?"


    "Stay with your dad and enjoy."


    "But I''ll be a thorn in her eyes..." Jane was right, Allie''s humiliation would indeed be deepened in seeing her there.


    The travel towards home ended with the three of them in Dino''s car. Ajie was silent all throughout the trip while Jane and Dino beat the awkward silence with different irrelevant topics. However, their conversation swerved later on to topics related to latest ship and yacht designs.


    "I''ve heard that the second most largest ship in the world is on its way home and the designer is a Filipina."


    Jane chuckled out softly at the thought that Allie''s name hadn''t sunk in completely yet in Dino''s mind.


    "Yes, it''s Zheena Kiamko," answered Jane in an amused tone while looking at him through the rear view


    mirror.


    "The name seems familiar," said Dino while his brows were drawn together.


    "Of course, she''s your bestfriend Allyza."


    Dino slammed on the brake, too startled with the news. "What?"


    His eyes narrowed as he stared at him in disbelief, spanking his forehead later for his stupidity in piecing up the events together.


    Dino stole a side glance at Ajie who remained silent despite them bringing up Allie''s name. He didn''t know if it was right to congratulate him or not for having an equally brilliant ex-wife. He didn''t need to be reminded that it was one of Ajie''s greatest wounds because the pride would obviously go to Hayri.


    "Say whatever is in your mind, Dino. Of course, I am happy that Allie lives up to the dream we had shared before."


    Dino gave him up a quick stare, wondering if it was really alright for him to talk about it. "You know about it?"


    "I know about the designs she planned to give to the company in return but this Omnia Vincit de Amor also came out as a surprise to her during their graduation," explained Ajie to the surprised bestfriend beside him.


    "You also know about that?" These sudden flow of awkward news seemed to blow Dino''s mind away. He couldn''t openly jump for joy in this success his bestfriend had achieved since he was also conscious of what Ajie may be feeling.


    "We met three months ago prior to their graduation..." Ajie then told Dino about the investment offered to him, only to be surprised that the owner was Allie herself.


    Dino couldn''t almost contain the impact of all the information he gathered that night since he needed to be careful in his reactions. He wanted to ask why he pursued on the annulment when he already knew the truth ahead, but Jane was listening.


    ____


    Meanwhile at the party, Allie rushed to hug her parents right after she saw them arrived. She dragged them both to a place where they couldn''t be heard. She knew that the outburst of their emotions would then be too hard to restrain.


    While in the next moments they were all sobbing loudly while hugging each other, Hayri and his dad came over. Still stiffling on her sobs, Allie looked up to Mr. Dioko and smiled. "Sir, please meet my parents, Mary and Samuel."


    Mr. Dioko smiled warmly as well, hugging both of her parents in acknowledgment. All of a sudden, to everyone''s surprise, he paused as he seemed to remember something in the past. He stared at Allie''s mother for a long while before he spoke up again.


    "Mary Ramos?"

 Chapter 121 - I Dont Need Your Whole Heart

    "Mary Ramos?"


    Mary narrowed her eyes as she stared at him, wondering why she was recognized by such an important person in the higher society. Mr.Dioko was a public figure and his image would appear every now and then in business news and publications. Even before Allie availed the scholarship program, Mary already knew him through these news portals. Who would not when he was the one who developed the district of Kamelyo? Through him, their roads were well-paved. Through his factories, the community were provided with means of livelihood and their students with summer jobs and scholarship program. Only that, there was an underground movement behind his charitable works.


    "Yes, sir. I wonder how this humble fellow earned your recognition?" said Mary softly as she shifted her gaze from him then to everyone around.


    The rest also tuned in their ears, it was something intriguing after all. Even if Allie was already a successful figure, it didn''t change the fact that they came from a common society..For Mr. Dioko to recognize her would make one think she was most likely a part of his past. It was expected of him, as someone rich and famous and an early widower, that there could be many women associated with him. While it remained a mystery why he did not remarry, any one would not give him an impression that he did not go into any relationship after the death of his wife.


    Mary, in her early fifties, still reflected her attractive physical attributes and beauty she once possesed when she was younger.


    No matter how much she tried to do a quick recall, she could never remember any event where she happened to come across with him.


    "In God''s eyes, Mary, we are all fair and of course, I know you as a very important person. You were Zara''s childhood bestfriend but you were separated when her family migrated in Europe. I met her there and we got married. For five years, we were childless, until we decided to adopt other ways of having a child."


    Hayri winced in hearing this but Mr. Dioko was quick to address him. "Don''t worry, son, you are our biological child," said Mr. Dioko as he chuckled and patted Hayri''s shoulder.


    Looking back at Mary, he continued.


    "We decided to settle here since many of her friends were here. I just thought she could be happier with them around and stop brooding over her barrenness."


    Mary started to become more uncomfortable at the mention of her bestfriend. Her loss was one of the most bitter chapter of her life. She was not just a friend, but someone closer to her heart than her family. Whatever she wished, if it is within her capabilities, she was always more than willing to help her with it


    "Zara had in mind her wonderful plan from the start. I still remember when she took a short vacation prior to our permanent moving here. You two met and after that, she got very excited... "


    Mary''s blood started to drain from her face and she instantly turned pale. "Sir, shall we not disturb her peace, please. At least, not now."


    Mr. Dioko''s smile started to disappear as he saw her reaction. He gave Allie a quick glance and also saw her discomfort.


    "Okay, let''s talk about it some other time. Tonight is our children''s night, after all, " said Mr. Dioko with a forced, thin smile on his lips.


    They all went back to the garden where the guests were waiting and the program went on as planned. Hayri and Allie''s success were presented as it was the highlight of the thanksgiving party. It was also an informal way of introducing Allie to their society prior to their hoped-for-engagement.


    The party extended into the wee hours of the morning. The laughters, the heightened conversations and the clinking sounds of bottles and glasses finally died out as everyone resigned into the comforts of their assigned rooms. Everyone else was having a good time except Mary. Nevertheless, there was one thing which perked her excitement that night and that was the announcement that everyone was invited to celebrate with them at the arrival of Amor Omnia Vincit.


    Later into the day, the guests started to leave the resort and so were Allie''s parents. As soon as they were settled comfortably inside the resort''s shuttle van, Allie came in together with Hayri and Mr. Dioko.


    "Auntie, uncle, I and dad are going to see you at your home prior to the arrival of the vessel. I wish we can finally discuss about the engagement," said Hayri as he cast a pleading look at Allie.


    "We, indeed, have so many things to talk about, " Mr. Dioko butted in as he threw a meaningful gaze at Mary.


    Mary just nodded while Sam exchanged few words with them. As the main gate closed after the last guest left, Hayri lifted Allie off her feet. Caught offguard, Allie shrieked and wriggled but her protests fell on deaf ears.


    He brought her to his room and the moment he placed her on the bed, he didn''t take any delay. He sealed her lips right away in a deep and hungry kiss. After who knew how long, Hayri relased her as he saw that Allie was already gasping for air. There were glints of amusement in his eyes as he tenderly gazed at her.


    "You were so ready to die, weren''t you? How about dying in my hugs and kisses?" he said as he pinched her nose, chuckling at the memory of their drama last night


    Allie felt awkward at the thought of it and responded only with her giggles. She was punished, instead, with more passionate kisses. As her body responded and found herself returning his kisses in an equal fervor, she suddenly stopped. Ajie''s image floated into her mind and she felt guilty.


    "Why?" asked Hayri whose voice was now filled with burning desire.


    Allie responded with a weak smile and looked away. A drop of tear slid down from her eyes. She quickly brushed it away and urged Hayri to go ahead but his desire quickly died out. He knew what she was thinking. He also knew very well that Ajie was the one who prompted Dino and his


    men to supposedly rescue her.


    "I''m envy him, Zheena. He already annuled your marriage for someone else but you still love him, " he said as he got up and sat at the edge of the bed.


    "Can we talk about something else? "


    Allie felt a sense of guilt for him as well. She knew she was already free but she understood well why Ajie made that decision. However, none of them could turn back. Jane was already expecting and she didn''t like the idea that she would also be hurting. Hayri, on the other hand, did so many things for her and was also expecting. More than anything else, she didn''t want him to go over the process of depression again.


    "No, let''s talk about it now, Zheena. Would I still expect for you to say yes?"


    "I need time, Hayri, because I want it to be when I am ready to give you my whole heart."


    "But when?" he asked and a feeling of frustration cracked in his voice.


    Zheena looked away. She just couldn''t tell. She felt she had to wait until Ajie would forever walk away from her life. That would be the moment he would tie the knot with Jane.


    "Zheena, I don''t need your whole heart. A little affection from you is enough. I will help you forget and start all over again," he bargained as he lifted her chin, forcing her to look into his eyes.


    Allie was greatly moved with this and she cried hard. No matter how she tried to reassess herself, her affection for him could only be defined as a feeling derived from pity and special friendship.


    She moved closer to him and hugged him tightly. "I''ll marry you, Hayri but I don''t want you to be hurt."


    "As I said, it doesn''t matter. I''ll help you heal and forget."


    "It''s unfair, Hayri," she mumbled in between her stiffled sobs.


    "But I can no longer live without you. You''re such a part of me already."


    His declaration of selfless love brought more tears into her eyes. Her halfheartedness didn''t deserve him. Yet, she needed him as a shield when Ajie would finally make a formal announcement of his engagement to Jane.


    ___

 Chapter 122 - Tell Me You Are Lying

    Allie moved right away to her new home and after she was done with the interior design and some fixings on the furnitures and appliances, she arranged a meeting with Ajie. She would ask to take her parents and daughter to live with her again. She may not be able to stay there permanently but since Ajie would then be marrying Jane, their presence would already be a burden. It would also be awkward for her to visit her family in Jane''s territory every time she''s around.


    "See you in our home," was Ajie''s reply after sending a message to Jane. He was already using a different number which Allie presumed as his.


    "At a coffee shop near your apartment," she suggested.


    "No."


    She tried to convince her with all her charm but night time came and still he was not giving in. Realizing she would never win, she decided to just see him personally at their home in Beautiful Haven. Yet, she knew she couldn''t get in without his or Jane''s approval. With all the courage she could gather, she called up Jane. She had no choice after all, the security in her territory was so strictly implemented. No random visitors allowed without her consent. If it was not because of her need to be with her loved ones, she would never get in touch with her. Just a mention of her name would already tear a portion of her heart.


    "He''s not here, Lyz. He only visits Chloe before dinner and after putting her to sleep, he leaves."


    "Where does he usually go?" she asked, wondering what kind of a fiance he was for not telling her his whereabouts.


    "Perhaps, in your home." Allie felt a little uncomfortable. How could she still call it as their home?


    She tried to send him a message again but he was not replying anymore. She called up but he neither picked up. She kept on trying a thousand times but still failed.


    On the third day, she gave up. She couldn''t delay it any further. Amor Omnia Vincit would already be arriving and she would be busy then.


    She could not also take them by force since it would be a disrespect to Jane. She also knew that she could be sued for kidnapping.


    Using her newly-purchased car, she went over to what she used to call as home. Ajie''s car was not on the garage, so she tried to use the duplicate key she kept in her old keyholder. To her surprise, the door opened. It was surprising, indeed, that Ajie did not change the lock. Was he still waiting all the while for her?


    The once neat and tidy living room she saw few days ago, was already a dumpsite of bottles and cans of alcoholic drinks. Tables and chairs were overturned and shards of glass littered everywhere. Just when did Ajie learned to drink? Just when did he learn to toss everything out in his fury? If ever this side of him existed, she didn''t have the chance to witness it.


    Hurrying upstairs, she saw that the bedroom door was opened but still the whole house was quiet. There was no sign that Ajie was there. Where could he be?


    Yet, as she got inside, her eyes widened when she saw him sitting down on the floor while his back was on the wall. His looks was messy and his hair disheveled. A bottle was in his hand and empty cans were rolling on the floor.


    "Adrian! What''s happening to you?" she yelled in disappointment in seeing him like that. She was used to seeing him well-groomed even if before, his clothes were not expensive.


    Ajie looked at her blankly and did not say a single word.


    "Adrian! What''s the matter with you?"


    She shook up his shoulders and he smirked.


    "Do you care? Since you don''t, do not ask!"


    "Just when do you learn to drink? Is this what you learn from getting hooked up with Jane?" She nagged while throwing all his trash in the garbage can, including the one in his hand. The room was filled with the suffocating smell of alcohol and she felt like throwing up.


    "Wow! The designer and builder of the world''s largest and most luxurious ship is too drunk and messed up."


    Ajie laughed mockingly in hearing this. In a stuttered voice, he exclaimed, "It''s because the designer of the world''s second largest ship is messing up with another man."


    "Shut up! You''re out of your mind," she retorted.


    Allie kept on cleaning up the mess and found herself changing up the sheets and throwing it on the laundry machine. After seeing to it that the room was cleaned up thoroughly, she ordered food and some antacids and Vit B-Complex from a delivery company.


    "Clean up yourself, Adrian! How can we talk if you''re like this," she nagged again as she rolled up his shirt to throw it out.


    She then dragged him to the bathroom, stripped him out of his messy clothes and showered him up with a cold water. Her mouth never stopped nagging. Drying him up afterwards with a towel, she wrapped him up and assisted him back into the bedroom. Once she placed him back on the bed, she opened the closet and picked up some clothes for him to wear. She found out that everything was arranged as neatly as before and all her clothes and personal things were still there. A feeling of nostalgia flooded in the innermost recesses of her mind as she inspected it and tears raced down her face, blurring her vision.


    The moment her tears ebbed down, she went back to him to help him change into an underwear and a new set of home clothes. Looking at his nudity, she wondered why she didn''t feel it strange. She''s not her husband anymore but everything felt just like before. The sense of belongingness was still there and she didn''t feel any sense of awkwardness in touching him. Ajie also obeyed submissively and did not protest when she removed his clothes and cleaned him up.


    She tried to brush the thought aside and continued on grooming him up. Her purpose was to talk to him about the custody of her child and her parents. Just when she was done with him, the doorbell alarmed. It was already the delivery boy.


    She sat him up and let him drink the medicine and after thirty minutes, she fed him with the soup and the rest of the food.


    "Sleep for a while and when you''ll sober up, let''s talk."


    "Sleep with me," said Ajie in a slurred voice.


    "No, I''ll clean up your mess," she protested as she assisted him back to the bed.


    As soon as she tucked him under the sheets, she stood up but Ajie pulled her down. "I said, sleep with me."


    "Adrian, you know we don''t have this right anymore. We are already separated. And besides, you''re already commited to Jane.


    What would she feel if..." Allie''s words were stuck into her mouth as Ajie pushed her down and claimed her lips.


    She struggled to get up but her strength couldn''t match the energy of a man. "Ajie, what are you doing?"


    "Why do you ask? We have done this a thousand times already," he answered as he began stripping off her dress while sealing her mouth with his.


    "Ajie, you''re crazy already!" she cursed as his mouth and one hand closed over her nipples. No matter how much she wriggled and pushed him away, he did not listen. Intoxicated with alcohol, angered with jealousy and hurt by his loss, he devoured her like a hungry beast.


    After he succeeded, he cleaned her up tenderly just like before. "Now, what do you want us to talk about?"


    Allie was already sobbing in humiliation. She was angered, not only because he sexually succeeded over her, but also because she was humiliated at the thought that he was also doing this to Jane. However, she couldn''t deny and was even ashamed in the fact, that she easily softened up and yielded passionately with him.


    "I want to be with my child and my parents again. Jie, when you will have your own children with Jane, your focus would already be on them, so give them back to me."


    "It''s not a problem."


    Allie''s face lit up in excitement. She thought she would have a hard time in convincing him. "Really? Thank you so much, Jie."


    She subconsciously hugged him in her joy, only to shrink back in frustration over his next words.


    "In one condition. That''s if you''ll marry me again."


    Allie''s heart sank as she gazed at him unbelievingly. Too many things were happening and the damage was already done.


    "How can you be so cruel? You annuled our marriage for her and then you have the heart to say that?"


    "You know very well why I did that. I was blinded with so much anger and jealousy."


    "Jie, nothing has changed. I''ve even given up myself to him and I said yes to his marriage proposal."


    Ajie threw an angry gaze at her but there was pain in his eyes. "Tell me you are lying, Allyza!" he yelled and gritted his teeth.


    "I''m sorry but I''m not. When did I ever make a lie, Adrian?"


    Ajie stared deeper at her to see any hint that she was only lying. Unfortunately, there was none. He pulled her up and hugged her tight while folding his knees on the bed. Pressing her head on his face, he let out a loud and bitter cry, breaking Allie''s heart.

 Chapter 123 - Another Chance

    "Can''t you give ourselves another chance?" asked Ajie after a long while of crying his eyes out.


    Every move of his shoulders as he sobbed, nudged the wounded part of Allie''s heart which still longed for their reconcilliation. Being hurt herself and feeling his own pain at the same time, made her cry with him. Yet, too many people were involved already and too many people would be affected should she consider accepting him back. There was Jane and her parents while there was Hayri and his dad. The announcement of both of their coming remarriages was already informally announced and the news spread like a wildfire.


    "You made this move first and you just can''t easily turn back," she reminded him, placing the full blame on himself.


    "I''ll explain to Jane and his dad," he insisted.


    "Be a man of words, Adrian. You have made yourself a name and it doesn''t look good on your reputation to be unsettled in your decisions."


    "To hell I care!" he retorted while still sniffing on his tears. Just what sense was there to value his reputation when the life within himself had already died?


    "Before you allowed yourself to be carried on with your anger, you should have prepared yourself to face the consequence."


    Ajie stooped down in great remorse, staring blankly at his fingers. He suddenly got afraid that the more he would argue with her, would only create a wider rift between them. The intense pain which bore down into his heart was gripping harder over his mind that he couldn''t seem to think well.


    Allie broke free from his embrace and looked into his eyes. "Jie, we both need to move on. We can still be friends, anyway. Nothing can change the fact that we are still the parents of our child."


    "Let us set ourselves free. Who knows you could be happier with her than you were with me," continued Allie as Ajie remained silent.


    "Thanks for being a good father to Chloe. I wish you can give me the chance to be a mother to our daughter. No matter how good Jane is in handling children with special needs but I believe no one can replace the real mother who carried her in her womb," explained Allie in her most subtle way as tears were streaming down her face.


    "There''s only one simple solution to that. Stay with me and let us rebuild our home."


    Sighing, Allie stood up and fixed herself before grabbing her purse.


    "See you in court, then," she said as she sprinted towards the door.


    Allie no longer looked back at him though her heart was filled with worries at what he might do to himself. He was already so lost when she found him, how much more in that moment where she confirmed her stand on their situation.


    She sent a message to Jane as soon as she settled herself behind the steering wheel. "Please check on Ajie constantly. "


    Just as she was pulling out of the garage, a courier in its motorbike stopped in front of the door. She stopped for a while to see if Ajie would open up. To her surprise, she saw the door opened and the man handed over an envelope. Ajie accepted it. She didn''t know why but her heartbeats seemed to accelerate in seeing that small parcel.


    When Ajie went out of the door and looked around, perhaps to look for her, she quickly drove out of the gate. She proceeded to Atty. Manloza''s office to discuss about the things she needed to do in requesting for the custody of the child.


    ____


    Ajie drove towards the only place where he thought someone was there who could fully relate his depression. The emptiness he felt inside was as deep as the tranquility of the road which lead towards that lonely house in the midst of the giant trees. Yet, the cool, refreshing breeze which ruffled the leaves did nothing to ease out the turbulence inside his heart.


    The woman who was on her rocking chair straightened up as she saw him from afar in a forlorn figure. She stopped rocking as he came closer and with tender eyes, she looked at him with a questioning gaze.


    "Madamme, I''m sorry I come alone. I did not tell Jane I''d be here. I bring with me the photos you asked. I just received it today," said Ajie while forcing a smile into his lips.


    "It''s alright, son," she said as she looked into his eyes. "But I am more worried of that load inside your heart."


    Ajie was taken aback. He stood pinned on where he was standing, narrowing his eyes as he stared at her, wondering how she was able to read through him.


    "Come on, tell mom all about it," she said, stretching her arms wide to welcome him.


    With that look of sympathy and endearing words from her, he dropped down on his knees and placed his head on her lap. He then felt her hand brushing the back of his head. He didn''t understand why but the warmth of her hands moving to rub his back to comfort him made him feel the presence of his mom who used to lift him up every time he was down. With that simple act of being cared and understood, he suddenly released his hold on his welling emotions and cried.


    He didn''t know how long he was crying his heart out, all he knew was a mother''s touch was urging him to let go of that great weight inside him.


    "Forgive me, madamme. I love your daughter but only as a very special friend. Yet, I am hoping that someday, I will learn to empty out my heart to fully welcome her, " said Ajie as his sniffling interval decreased.


    "I understand, " answered Mrs. Lopez in a soft voice as her fingers traced the red mark at the center of his nape.


    Ajie looked up to her in surprise, wondering why she wasn''t angered. He knew it was such a harsh confession that any mother would flare up. He even anticipated that such declaration would create in her a sharp dislike on him. Yet, he couldn''t care less, the truth must be told before he would suffer greater blame in the future.


    Mrs. Lopez met his eyes with her tender gaze and said, "Now, give me those photos you promised."

 Chapter 124 - Regret Always Comes Late

    Ajie watched her as she picked one photo after another. He couldn''t help wondering why it took her so long to stare at just one photo at a time. As she picked up the last piece, big drops of tears suddenly raced down her face. In the next moment, she was already sobbing aloud.


    Ajie hugged her right away to comfort her. She gave her that exact favor a while ago and it was only fair to give it back. Her wailing took so long and in every second of witnessing her through the pain, he realized just how deep was the wound against the loss of her child. No wonder why she fell into a major depressive disorder. He, himself, couldn''t almost bear the pain of losing Allie, how much more in losing her own child, whose same blood ran in her own veins?


    "I''m sorry, Jie. I prayed hard for so long for God to grant me a child, only to loose him when my world became so lively and colorful with their presence. These photos reminds me of him."


    "How did you gather back your strength to move on?" asked Ajie who was wondering why she chose to detach from the world for so long to the extent of being forgotten by her social world.


    Mrs. Lopez smiled and brushed his hair above his foreheard, her eyes were as tender as a mother who rejoiced in touching her son.


    "Because I suddenly realized that while their is life, their is hope. I, then, began believing that in God''s perfect way and time, He will lead me back to him."


    Ajie''s mind drifted quickly to his situation with Allie and began hoping as well that someday, their lives would somehow be bound again. Yet, he knew that as their was Jane in his life, their was also Hayri in hers. But if only Allie was willing to break free from him, he would also be more than ready to break free from Jane. Thinking about the stakes being too high, he could only shake his head and forever bear the guilt.


    While lost in his thought, Mrs. Lopez stood up and waved her hand to excuse herself. She pointed to the direction of her bedroom and Ajie just nodded, hurrying to get back to his halted reverie.


    "Son, come over. Let''s eat together," she said right after she got back, the excitement in her tone reflected in her eyes.


    Ajie didn''t want to disappoint her and so he agreed without a second thought. The aroma of the warm and delicious food dispersed into the whole dining room and he realized it had been long since he felt a pang of hunger. Their discussion continued over the table but Mrs. Lopez never mentioned about his status with Jane, making him guiltier. Just as he was about to bring out the topic first, Mrs. Lopez''s phone sounded. To his surprise, she turned on the loud speaker and that simple display of trust moved him.


    "Madamme, I''m sorry I can''t return tomorrow as I promised, " came the frightened voice on the other line.


    Mrs. Lopez was too elated at the moment and that petty failure did not disappoint her. "It''s alright."


    "Really, madamme?" the voice on the other line floated in an unbelieving tone.


    "Yes."


    "Thank you, madamme. It''s because of my son who is currently admitted.Actually, I was about to ask for your help. We are looking for a blood donor of my son''s blood type."


    Mrs. Lopez looked up and Ajie unintentionally met her eyes right away. He knew even without asking that she wanted to ask if he was willing to donate.


    "I''d like to try madamme. What is the blood type?" he said, without asking who the caller was.


    In less than an hour, Ajie was already lying on a hospital bed. A big needle was inserted into his vein and soon his blood was filling into a bag. He was compatible to be a blood donor of the caller''s son.


    ____


    A deafening round of applause and joyful shouts filled the atmosphere as Allyza, the world''s largest and the most luxurious ship glided into the water. It swayed and tilted on its both sides before it steadied itself in the water, holding everyone''s breath as its weight and shape molded into its new home.


    Ajie, the designer and maker of the world''s most graceful creation, closed his eyes at the last second before the vessel touched the water.


    The momentary silence of the spectators followed by their loud gasp, heightened his own apprehensions, blending with their unspoken fear that the height and size of the vessel might not be able to keep its balance in the water.


    Though his team''s calculations had zero percentage on the possibility of error, he still couldn''t help himself from having doubts that the vessel could float perfectly in the water. He only opened his eyes when he heard another round of applause and triumphant laughters.


    At his side was Jane, her grip on his upper arm tightened as she tugged him in her joy in finally seeing the full glory of the vessel on the wide expanse of the sea. He did not realize that a camera was focused on them and the whole world was watching through a live stream. Throwing a quick and a stolen glance at his arm with her hand in it, he fidgetted. He looked up and through his peripheral vision, he scanned all the guest around. He knew that Allie would be coming over together with the Dioko''s, their word of honor and pretense to the world was more important than the uncomfortable situation they would all be in. It didn''t take him much effort, he saw her right away in one corner of the spectator''s lane. She was so beautiful in her short, cream dress; her full expression was concealed by her big and dark glasses. Hayri''s arm was over her shoulders and the sight threw a sharp thrust into his already bleeding heart.


    He took a slow breath in and exhaled as slow as possible to shove away the threatening tears forming at the back of his eyes. Why does regret always come late?

 Chapter 125 - The Only Condition

    All the guests were then ushered into a five-star hotel to continue the celebration. It was not only the ship inauguration that made the event a hot topic in all the news portal but also because it was the engagement party of the ship''s builder and designer. As Dr. Jane''s name was already tied up to whatever fame and success the marine vessel industry brought about, almost everyone in whatever walks of life they may be in, knew who she was. Her marriage engagement to someone who was also inclined to their line of business made them happy for her.


    While the Lopez''s and Ajie gathered at the table at the left side, the Dioko''s and Allie were on the left. The tables which were set in white and red were arranged in four rows, creating a wide space for the aisle in between the second and the third rows. The red -carpeted aisle separated the distance between the two families who concealed their discomforts through the masks of their fake smiles.


    Allie kept staring at the door, waiting for the entry of her daughter and her parents. After her last talk with Ajie, she somehow managed to treat her longing to be with them through video calls. She knew that ''striking while the iron is hot'' wouldn''t always work since it involved a shattered emotion between her and Ajie. Though she was already impatient and couldn''t wait to have her family back to her, she knew that their current situation needed more patience until their wounds would start to heal.


    Through time and constant communication, Chloe quicky tamed off to her and the child even made constant requests for a day out with her. Seeing her now as she was walking in the aisle in a princess dress which enhanced her loveliness as a six-year-old child, Allie suddenly lost her grip on her emotion. She stared at her with tears streaming down her face and with what must had been a mother-and-child-instinct, Chloe immediately saw her and squealed as she ran towards her table.


    "Mommy!" came the child''s voice that rang into the walls of the function room, making all eyes turned to her.


    Mary and Sam, together with Leo and Issa following close behind, hesitated and looked at each other before they resumed their march. Ajie must have sensed their awkwardness as he was also fidgetting in watching them. He suddenly stood up to ease out the tension in the air and with a big, fake smile, he walked up to them, ushering them to their table while their eyes were fixed on Allie. Everyone around knew about their marriage status and couldn''t help themselves from feeling their discomfort.


    As Allie placed her daughter on her lap and hugged her, she cast a quick and stolen glance at Ajie who was also looking up at her. Without the need to say it aloud, Ajie understood the message in her eyes. She was asking his permission to allow her daughter to sit down with her.


    Ajie couldn''t openly object as the crowd was watching them. Aside from that, they were trying to prove that everything between them was settled and that they should show their damn pretense of sportmanship to the world. However, he was figuring out a way to get Chloe back, after all she was his last trump card against Allie. No matter how would his coming remarriage be publicized, he was still willing to break it up if only Allie would accept.


    The bittersweet feeling of hugging her child, heightened by her somewhat deppresive mood lately, made her want to flee from the place and cry out loud. She kept on inhaling slow breaths to calm herself down but the magnitude of her emotion prevailed.


    "Darling, may I fix your hair at the powder room?" she said with a feigned excitement. It was the only way she thought she could come out from the hall.


    "Yes!" Chloe answered, her eyes got wider than hers.


    "Let''s go!" she exclaimed, feeling relieved that Chloe cooperated.


    The moment they went out through the side door near their table, she rushed out to enter a bathroom with Chloe in her hand. She placed her in the wash area and before she could pull out her brush and ties to fix Chloe''s hair, she broke down into a bitter wailing. She couldn''t shake it off from her mind that few hours from now, Ajie''s engagement to Jane would be fornally announced and that would finally seal the downfall of a happy family she once dreamed to build.


    Chloe stared at her with her confused and innocent look and with just a cupping of her face and a wordless murmur as an answer from her mom, Chloe''s tender emotion was evoked and she cried with her.


    "Darling, someday I''ll let you understand why mommy Allie and daddy Ajie couldn''t live together with you in a home. But always remember this, we both love you so much, " Allie tried to talk to her despite the difficulty of uttering a single word.


    "Baby, daddy Ajie would soon be marrying..." she continued in between her sobs but was stopped by a male voice by the door.


    Startled, she looked up to find Ajie standing at the door. His eyes were sharp, slicing though the innermost chambers in her heart. She was then wondering how long was he there.


    "I''m taking Chloe back. You are insinuating lies in her innocent. mind."


    Dumbfounded at his accusation, she felt insulted but the surge of her emotion for being caught up crying, rendered her speechless. For some moments of staring dumbly at each other, Allie finally broke the silence.


    "By the way, congratulations but you shouldn''t have named her ''Allyza''. In case you have forgotten, she''s no longer a part of your dreams. You are only hurting Jane with that. Adrian, I''m also a woman and I understand her feelings."


    Ajie smirked as he leaned on the door. "Jane understands."


    She frowned. How could a woman understand the dishonesty of her man? However, there was no point to argue with him. It would only widen the gap between them and it wouldn''t be healthy for their child. If they couldn''t stay as couple then they should at least, stay as friends


    "Congratulations also for the engagement. I want to let you know I''m happy for you."


    "Happy?" he said as he let out a derisive laugh before he continued,


    "Just say it now that you''ll marry me again and I''ll break off the engagement."


    "You''re crazy!" she muttered hoarsely under her breath, totally forgetting that their daughter was listening.


    "Call me whatever you like, my dear. I also want you to know that I will forever bear the guilt and regret for destroying our home, for breaking our marriage. But if you''ll give us a chance, we can always build it back."


    As she was about to reply, Hayri appeared at the back of Ajie. Her eyes were drawn to him and her heart raced at the thought that perhaps he was listening all throughout their argument.


    "Sweetheart, I''m sorry to disturb but I''m worried..." came Hayri''s thoughtful words as he shifted his gaze from her to Ajie.


    "Give me Chloe," Ajie interrupted, obviously disappointed at his intrusion.


    "Ajie, please," she begged as Chloe quickly threw her arms around his neck as the child saw Ajie coming closer to pick her up.


    "It''s simple, Allie. You can have her all you want with that one condition I ask from you, " said Ajie as he pulled Chloe with a little force from her.


    Their daughter shed silent tears as she unwillingly allowed her dad to take her up, her eyes never leaving her mom as if she was begging for her to plead out her case. Allie''s emotion was torn again. Her heart went out to her daughter, hurting that she would be the one to be affected more in this break up.


    She cried hard again and Hayri came to her rescue, pulling her close to him in a warm embrace. Seeing them in an intimate manner, Ajie couldn''t help but boil up in his jealousy. Before he would be tempted to lose his temper, he walked away while Chloe was staring at them.

 Chapter 126 - Cant Thank You Enough

    After everyone was ushered into their seats and the tables were filled with drinks, the master of the ceremony came up and announced the formal opening of the program. Invocation followed and in the huge screen appeared the replica of Allyza in her maiden voyage as it sailed gracefully through the sparkling blue water. The piano instrumentals which flowed out into the atmosphere stirred up once more the supposedly calmed-down turbulence inside Allie''s heart since it was one of her collections titled, "Lead Me, Lord".


    A song made famous in the Philippines by Gary Valenciano, it was one of her collections she often played everytime she felt alone, confused and dejected.


    It was obviously chosen by Ajie. He knew exactly where to touch her since the song would surely remind her of the days when they started dreaming about designing a ship.


    While she bowed down her head in silent prayer, allowing the music to fill her empty soul and soothe her pain-stricken soul, her tears came dripping down. Hayri saw her and he tightened his hold across her shoulders to comfort her.


    As the master of the ceremony in his gleeful tone gave his introduction by congratulating Ajie and AJ&J Builders, he also included the second highlight of the party which intensified the uneasiness Ajie felt inside. How he hoped he could just ran away from this, yet, he also didn''t want to disappoint the people who supported him in achieving his dreams, especially Mr. Lopez.


    "We are so fortunate tonight that we are chosen to witness, not only the ceremonial ship launching and inauguration, but also in the pledging of two hearts in love to join their souls for a lifetime..." rang the resonant and energetic voice of the master of the ceremony.


    The people gave a round of applause and the camera was focused on Jane who gave out a polite smile while her hand reached out to clasp it with Ajie. The camera man must have been briefed by Ajie ahead since he didn''t dare to capture his reaction in a closed focus as he winced in discomfort. He just smiled weakly, nodded and looked down. He tried so hard to conceal the turmoil inside his heart but those people who were closed to him, especially Jane, understood him very well.


    Out in the corner of the table, Leo shivered in guilt. His lips turned pale and his blood seemed to drain out from his face the moment the master of the ceremony mentioned about the engagement. He was haunted with guilt for a long time already but even until this time, he still could not gather the courage to tell the truth. Issa noticed his restlessness and she reached out to touch his forehead and at the sides of his neck to check for his temperature.


    "Not feeling well?" she asked, looking up at him with glints of worries in her eyes. She had always known him as a fit man and his sudden discomfort alarmed her.


    "I''m just perhaps overjoyed with the success of our son," he lied.


    Even to his wife he couldn''t muster a sense of bravery to confess. He just couldn''t imagine the wrath of the Lopez''s, especially Mrs. Lopez who underwent a major depressive disorder due to Ajie''s loss. He also could not face his son for depriving him of the abundant life he should have started to enjoy with his true family when he was younger.


    ______


    The program came to the point where Ajie was called up to the stage for an interview. He stood up and before he turned towards the direction of the stairs, he looked at Jane with tender eyes and the latter understood what he meant. He was afraid that he might lose his emotional control and that he might hurt her. Of all the people surrounding him, only Jane understood him without condemning, even to the extent of hurting her with the honesty of his feelings. She was more of a true friend for him and that would be a remarkable attribute of her to become his wife. Even with the high hopes of reconciling with Allie, in case his plan would never work out, at least he knew Jane would be a good lifetime companion. Yet, as long as they were yet unmarried, he would still go on with the hope.


    "Sir Adrian, how do you feel as the builder and designer of the world''s largest and most luxurious ship?"


    "Very happy and grateful of the people who inspire me to become one."


    "If you don''t mind, can you please enumerate the names of the person involved?"


    "Above all, glory be to God who grants me the success. Without him, my life and this dream is nothing. Next are my parents who first prayed for my success, who first planned to give me a good education..." he said as he glanced up at his parents who were watching him with great pride.


    "Next, is my wife. She''s the one who first shared the details of the dream with me. She laid out her wild ideas which all came into reality and most of all, she''s the one who first believe in me and my ability, " Ajie paused as he glanced at Allie who was also staring up at him.


    Tears started to glisten in his eyes as he looked at her with longing to have her back in his arms. Then, he went ahead.


    "Back then, we both dreamed to celebrate our success during the maiden voyage of this ship but sad to say, some things in life are not meant for us."


    He paused and took a deep breath, trying with all his might to hold back the breaking of his defenses. Somehow, no matter how much he tried to stay strong, drops of tears escaped and he wiped it away with his fingers. It took some moments before he continued and a deep silence ruled the hall.


    "Another is Mr. Lopez, his trust and faith in me, made me become what I am today. To think, I was just a stranger when we first met. He made everything easy and possible for me. I just couldn''t thank him enough."


    Mr. Lopez waved a hand, his grin was so wide that it almost reached out to both of his ears. He smiled back and bowed, acknowledging the great respect he had for him.


    "And I would never forget to mention Dr. Jane who shares all my troubles as I went through all the processes of accomplishing my goals. I can''t thank her enough also for patiently bearing with me."

 Chapter 127 - I dont Understand

    A round of applause erupted from the guests who didn''t know much about their private stories but those who did, stiffened from their seats and held their breath. Dr. Jane, who was always a paragon of perfect and graceful poise despite pressure, gave out her pursed but charming smile as she nodded and acknowledged her fiance''s public confession.


    Allie smiled as well, though in her heart it was a painful reminder of her absence. It was something she was supposed to do as a wife but in those times, she was instead caring for another man. As she stared at him while her mind was somewhere else, Ajie fixed his gaze towards her, hoping for a tiny hint that this statement would evoke a guilt from her and make her realize her own shortcoming as a wife.


    "Are there any other else, Sir Adrian, that you would like to dedicate this great success of yours? " the voice of the interviewer broke into his moment of reverie.


    Ajie turned his head towards him before he scanned the faces of Mary and Sam.


    "My parents-in-law who treat me as their own son despite the absence of my wife for many years and of course, my dearest one, the most precious gift God has given me, my daughter Chloe."


    The camera was then focused on her daughter, who may be sitting beside Jane, yet her eyes were on Allie.


    "Sir Adrian, can you please give us a clue why you choose to name your creation and masterpiece as Allyza? Is there a meaning behind the beautiful name?"


    Ajie gave out a smile but his eyes glinted with sadness as he raised his head and glanced at Allie.


    "As I said a while ago, she first shared the wild details of the dream with me when everything still looked bleak and we had nothing except our determination to finish our studies."


    "Eheem...It seems that she holds a special place in your heart. Each of the people you mentioned a while ago, holds an important part in the realization of your dream. Now, who among those you mentioned is Miss Allyza?"


    "If you remember clearly what I said a while ago, then it is clear that I''m talking about my wife, Allyza Reyes."


    The interviewer paused and swallowed his saliva upon his mention of the word, "wife", without any hint of apprehension. This gave him a clue that the love triangle was still trapped and entangled as of the moment. Looking at both the women, he suddenly felt uneasy and for a moment, got lost for the right words to say.


    "Sir Adrian, I think only few know about your personal life. All of us here are witnesses that you mention Allyza as your wife but we also know very well, that today''s celebration is not only about the ceremonial launching but also about the promise of uniting two hearts together, am I right? "


    "When my success as builder and designer of the ship is being talked about, she plays the greatest part. Unfortunately, there are some things in life beyond our control and that lead us into separate ways. And I think, you can guess what happened next..."


    The interviewer nodded, there''s no need to give out the details. Failure of marriages and remarriages are common among the public figures as if changing spouses for them are like changing worn-out socks.


    Allie could no longer bear the rising awkwardness . She knew that one of the next questions would be to ask if she was around or the possibility of her listening. The curiousity of their break up would then be excited and rumors would then run through. She was also aware that she was not fully recognized yet, and if ever someone remembered her as Zheena Kiamko during the ceremonial launching of her own creation, they would not be able to associate her as Allyza, the ex-wife of Adrian. She was better known as the fiancee of Louise Dioko to his family''s circle of friends during his thanksgiving party.


    She also knew that except for the people in their society and in the marine industry, Ajie did not allow himself yet to be publicized. Before her name would be mentioned again, she took her silent exit at the side door. Hayri, who was also bearing silently his own awkwardness and jealousy, motioned to follow but she waved a hand to stop him.


    "Sir Adrian, can you please tell us more about yourself, your childhood and your family background? You have surprised the world with your achievement but you know that only little is known about you."


    Ajie took a deep breath as he pondered on what to say. He was distracted in seeing Allie leave, it seemed that this interview is sealing the rift between them. How he wished he could leave and run after her, now that watching her with Hayri threatened the faintest chance he was holding on.


    After pausing for few seconds, he looked up and scanned the audience from right to left before he opened his mouth to speak.


    "I grow up as an only child of my parents, lavished in love and care, in the beautiful mountain district of Molave. My friends were the horses, chickens, goats, cows and other livestocks that my family raised in our farm. My neighbors were the giant trees, the beautiful hills and the flowers that color our serene world."


    A burst of laughter broke from the audience and Ajie paused to chuckle as he recalled it himself in his memory.


    "My parents then sent me to school in our town and our transportation is my favorite handsome horse which served me until I graduated in high school," he continued and another surge of laughter rang into the halls again.


    "After school hours, my father also sent me to my music class and that''s the reason why I became the male lead soloist of our university''s music band."


    The audience gasped in appreciation as they imagined him as a singer. His looks and his physical attributes would surely qualify him to become a famous celebrity.


    "I just don''t know why but ever since I started college, I always imagined myself sailing on the blue waters. My parent''s hearts are always on land properties, farms and livestocks that I don''t understand where my love for marine vessels come from."

 Chapter 128 - The Similarities

    Leo turned pale despite his effort to maintain a weak smile while listening to his son. Tears were long rolling down his face, brought about by his sense of pride and guilt. Ajie''s question came as an unforeseen stab against his heart, making it ooze with accumulated, bloody elements of guilt.


    "Tay, Nay, I''m sorry for asking this part of me. But I never question the way you cared for me. I owe you my life forever, from the beautiful memories of my childhood where I became the darling of our home to the day you send me to the city to work on my dreams."


    This declaration prompted Leo and Issa to sob loudly and the atmosphere fell into a deep silence.


    "Yet, the most painful statement that you said is when you told me that you are sending me to the city to let me build my future and my dreams. And when you also told me that you are always praying that someday, I may find my true self in my true family."


    Mr. Lopez and Jane sharpened his gaze at him together with the rest of the crowd, curious of what he exactly meant.


    "Nay, Tay, I could never ask for more. You are more than enough for me. I can''t thank you enough for providing me a home and for loving me as your very own since the day that you picked me up from the street."


    "What?" a low gasp escaped from Mr. Lopez''s mouth but loud enough to be heard in the hall which fell into a deep silence.


    The crowd created a likewise simultaneous loud gasp as they were hit by a heavy surprise. Mr. Lopez was unconsciously propelled to stand up and Jane was suddenly shaking, a reaction she couldn''t explain and understand.


    "Adrian, can you make it clearer?" Mr. Lopez couldn''t also understand why his heartbeat suddenly raced up in Ajie''s revelation.


    "Several years ago, when I was three years old, my parents found me sleeping in a streetside. Perhaps, I was one of those many children who were lost during the Sinulog Festival that year."


    Mr. Lopez and Jane''s eyes grow even wider in his answer and Jane did not realize that she also stood up beside his dad, staring sharply at Ajie, as if they were widely shocked at his revelation. The opinions of the crowd were divided. Some thought that the Lopez''s were shocked to the extent of regret because they didn''t realize ahead that their coming family member was from a society which was far irrelevant to theirs.


    Others also remembered that many years ago, Mr. Lopez did a great effort to find his three-year-old son who was lost during the city''s festivities.


    They put up the pieces together and linked what Ajie had just said a while ago that he didn''t understand where his love for marine vessels came from. The people also stood up in anticipation, all drawn out towards the silent emotional frenzy of the moment, making Ajie confused for a long while. Before he recalled that the Lopez''s had lost a son, the main entrance of the hall opened and a woman in an elegant get up, walked in.


    Ajie''s gaze fell on her and wondered what made her come over. She chose to disconnect from the world for years that the people had already forgotten that she existed. She was totally different from the last time he saw her. She walked in gracefully with a happy and confident aura, an air of elegance was emanating from her in every step she took. Gone were the sad glows in her eyes and her looks didn''t gave any trace of the major depression she was into.


    Jane and Mr. Lopez, together with the rest of the crowd who knew them well, also came surprised and unprepared of her presence. Nevertheless, a feeling of joy and relief overwhelmed them. They waited for this moment for so long already and even came to the point despair. They thought that the life on her, which died on the day she lost her son, would no longer be revived. Yet, now she''s here and surprised everyone with her vigor and elegance.


    "Mom! "


    "Dear! "


    Both the father and daughter exclaimed as their mouths opened in bewilderment. The master of the ceremony, the interviewer and even Hayri himself stared at them without blinking, blending with the curiosity the whole crowd was experiencing.


    "My husband and dear daughter, I always look up to you as one of the most brilliant persons of the society. But how can you be so insensitive to the important clues the chance has provided you for so long? You really disappoint me," she said, gathering all eyes to her.


    "Mom, what do you mean? "Jane answered while Mr. Lopez draw out a deep breath to calm down his racing heartbeat.


    "Honey, don''t you ever wonder why he was pushed by his conscience to save you from the brink of death years ago?" Mrs. Lopez went on as this time, she glued her eyes to his husband whose lips were already quivering.


    "Don''t you consider his love for the ships as an added coincidence?" she further poked him but his shock momentarily made him dumb.


    "And you, sweerheart, you''re being known as the epitome of beauty and intelligence, haven''t you ever realized why you were so easily hooked to him emotionally from the beginning?"


    "Haven''t it occured to you why his name is so similar to your lost brother?" she taunted, as with glints of disbelief, she looked into her daughter''s eyes.


    "And lastly dear, haven''t you realized why Ajie cannot give you the affection beyond the limits of just plain friendship and companionship?"


    Jane felt her circulation was pooling on her face, restricting her to utter a single word. She just stared at her mom as if she was announcing an impending doom rather than a good news.


    "And you, my dear Ajie, " she said as she returned her attention to him, "you may be wondering why I am here."


    "I am here to explain where your love for marine vessels come from. It''s, of course, from your own biological father whose love for ships run in your genes."


    Ajie froze in his place while his narrrowed gaze was stuck on Mrs.Lopez''s face. Was she making sense or was she in her right mind? Was her depression on exacerbation again?


    Mrs. Lopez raised a hand as her eyes were shifted to the wide screen. Without further ado, animated photos of a child were played, accompanied by a melancholic flow of a music titled, "An Angel To Watch Over Me" by Sally Deford.


    The song was a touching piece in its lullaby tone. It talks about a mother caring for her child as her angel from infancy to adulthood. Anyone listening to its slow wave would be moved emotionally, especially that the atmosphere was already heavily-laden with melancholy.


    The photos started from a happy couple where Mrs. Lopez was heavy with pregnancy down to the photos of an infant in her arms. It then shifted to a scene in a playground where Mr. Lopez was seen tossing a plastic ball to a child down to a clinic scene where Mr. Lopez carried him in his arms while a doctor was injecting him a vaccine.


    The music then changed to a Sinulog chant and a three-year-old boy and a girl were seen playing on a hotel lobby. A caption then floated which said, "On the day of the Sinulog Festival".


    There was a narration then, telling the crowd that the son of the world''s top yacht-builder got lost in the height of the Sinulog jubilee. The whole nation was said to be stirred for days then it slowly and eventually embraced the reality of hopelessness in finding him again.


    The scene changed once more and a question rolled out into the screen. "Can you see the similarities?"


    Ajie, himself, stared at the screen and the photos that followed were the ones mailed to him by his parents per Mrs. Lopez''s request.


    And right, the boy''s face was indeed similar to the ones in the pictures during the day of the festival.

 Chapter 129 - I Will Make It Right

    Ajie was not able to get over yet from his state of shock when another bomb-like information floated into the screen. It was a piece of paper, enlarged and zoomed. A table was focused, in it were codes and percentage. The conclusion was then rolled out, and simultaneous gasp was heard from the crowd.


    "Based on the data and analyses we have gathered, it is therefore proven that Angelo Lopez is the biological father of Adrian James Gonzaga."


    Issa''s loud sob of joy was then heard in the hall and all eyes were drawn to her. Leo was rubbing her back but his face turned pale as an onion sheet. The people may perceive it as an anticipated reaction of this massive revelation but no one could tell that it was all about his fear. How would he defend himself from the wrath of his son''s biological family? He couldn''t just say he didn''t know where to return the child when he knew he could have reported it to their local authority. Not to mention that he was informed in the first place.


    Above all, his greatest fear was how would Ajie react to this. Would he curse and hate them forever? Would he blame him for the kind of life he grew up with on the mountain when he could have enjoyed himself with the comfort and luxury his family could well provide? His intention may not be harmless as he and Issa filled his world with utmost love and care as parents to their child, but he knew he was still wrong. He knew his apology wouldn''t be enough to bring back the losses Ajie''s family had suffered. It could neither heal the grief and fear they had endured.


    While Ajie and the rest marveled at how come his identity was found out, the voice of Mrs. Lopez rang into the air.


    "When you came to me, few days ago, to give me the photos I requested, you were in your most bitter state. To my excitement, you obeyed and allowed me to place your head on my lap. And there I confirmed, I saw the heart-shaped red mark above your nape," explained Mrs. Lopez, her voice was already quivering.


    "When I asked for your photos, I already knew you were mine. It''s a mother''s instinct, I guess. I knew it when I heard you speak to me for the first time. An inner voice told me that it''s finally the answer to my prayer."


    "Son, I have persistently prayed for your coming back the day we lost you. Rather than living with the bitterness inside, I tried to lessen my guilt by working on an orphanage with the hope that by doing so, you would find a beautiful home wherever you were."


    Running her eyes on the audience, she continued.


    "I came to believe that there''s a purpose and a reason to everything that happens in our lives. So, I am grateful for the parents you grew up with. They raise you as a disciplined and kindhearted, young man. We can never pay for the rich experiences they let you go through which shapes and molds you to the kind of a person you are now."


    Mr. Lopez stared at his wife in disbelief. How could she easily forgive the people who caused her pain and depression? To think, it cost her life and vigor for more than two decades. It even prompted her to dissociate from the world. Yet,when he looked back to how the events were arranged for their meeting, how he unusually softened up to him as a stranger and how he easily believed in his capabilities, he realized that God is there, guiding them all along. She''s may be right then, there must be a reason why God allowed him to get lost.


    While all of them remained staring at Ajie on the stage and Mrs. Lopez on the aisle, Jane ran up to the stage and with tears in her eyes, she threw herself at him in a tight embrace.


    "Kuya!" was all that her lips could speak as she cried hard, overwhelmed by the turn of events.


    Ajie wrapped her in his arms as well, his shoulders moving as he sobbed. For a long while they stayed like this and no one dared to disrupt them. They all knew it wouldn''t be easy for them to transcend from being a couple who were supposed to formally announce their engagement, to the astounding news of their siblingship.


    For who knew how long to which the crowd waited patiently, Ajie finally released Jane from his embrace and kissed her on the top of her forehead. Jane looked up and smiled, still with glistening tears in her eyes. As their gazes locked for seconds, the overwhelming sense of irony overflowed within her and she giggled, making Ajie and the rest of the crowd laugh as well. Needless to say, their engagement was dissolved that day.


    Mr. Lopez strode up to the stage as well and even before Ajie could reach out to him, his emotion was already gripping the most vulnerable side of him and he was already crying.


    "This explains why I like you so much and why I want to give you everything," said Mr. Lopez in between his sniffs.


    "And why I just can''t leave you dying on the shore," Ajie chuckled back, amused at the memory of him struggling with his weight from the shore to the end of the block.


    The sweet tone of his son''s laughter penetrated into his heart with strange and inexplicable joy that he laughed as well, until tears streamed down his face again.


    Unable to contain his joy anymore, he picked up a microphone while his other hand was still around Ajie''s shoulders.


    "To my honored guests and family, none of you can ever tell how happy am I to know that I finally found my long, lost son. And the fact that he followed my steps even in my absence, makes me a happier and prouder dad here."


    "And a prouder grandfather... " Mrs. Lopez answered him as she also came up with Chloe in her hand.


    All eyes turned to her again and when they saw that her surprised and alienated granddaughter was on the verge of tears, they all broke out into a round of laughter.


    "Picture, please..." Mrs.Lopez said as she waved a hand to the camera man, making the crowd cheer for that first family picture they had.


    ____


    When all the guests stood up to congratulate their hosts before leaving, Leo and Issa also stood up to leave ahead. They planned to make their exit silently without disturbing their son who was still in the height of his joy in meeting his real family. They agreed to go directly on the bus terminal and return to their home in Molave. They would just wait there for the steps that the Lopez family would do to sue them. They were old after all and to spend their days in separate cells in jail for loving a child as their own, wouldn''t be so much of a punishment. It woudn''t be long anyway before their last days would be pronounced. At least, they were happy and fulfilled as a family.


    Just as the hotel''s shuttle van arrived at the pick-up area and Leo was able to help Issa in settling down to the passenger''s seat, a hand was placed on his shoulder.


    "Tay, why don''t you wait for me?"


    Leo turned to find Ajie hovering over him.


    Leo chuckled sheepishly before he could find his words. "Son, we don''t want to disturb you so we agreed to go ahead."


    "And why not ask me to call the driver?" said Ajie with hints of humiliation in his tone.


    "Your mom wants us to return to Molave... "


    "Without telling me?"


    Leo scratched his head in guilt. He was already haunted with fear and guilt and now, he was also caught up unprepared to show him their sense of inferiority.


    "Son, we just want to give you time to meet your real family without our shadows. We want you to know that we are so happy that you finally meet them and that we are also ready to accept the punishment."


    "Punishment for what?" asked Ajie who was confused momentarily on what he meant.


    "For keeping you as our child,"


    answered Issa; her lips were already quivering as tears seeped into her mouth. "We could have reported it."


    The truth of what she said stuck into his mind and he was taken aback. He then understood what they meant. Yet, he was still a child when that happened and all he remembered was their love and care for him.


    How could he hate them? How could he allow them to be sued for loving him? How could he be fully happy to be recognized as the son of the world''s top figure in marine industries if the parents he grew up with land in jail?


    He also understood that aside from their sense of guilt, they also felt the sense of inferiority. They may had even thought that he would already be discarding them. Almost everyone, if not the whole world, knew Mr. Lopez, now his new father; and his image would make them think he was superior over them in the aspect of parenting. His heart was then torn in pity at this realization. No matter how poor they may be, he would always be proud and grateful for them. And if it was indeed a sin to adopt him, he swore he would do all it take to make it right.


    "Nay, please don''t do this to me. I haven''t solved my problem yet and there you are, adding to my heartaches. You both are and will always be in my heart."


    Before Issa could reason out, a voice interrupted them.


    "Leo, Issa, please come down. We haven''t given you the honor and haven''t thanked you yet."


    "Sir... " Leo mumbled, his eyes threw glints of fear towards Mr. Lopez. His most dreaded confrontation had already come and he couldn''t help himself but tremble before him.


    To his surprise, Mr. Lopez wrapped his arm around him and said, "call me Angelo from now on."

 Chapter 130 - I Need Her

    A guard''s call interrupted Hayri''s thoughts on what happened on Allyza''s launching. No matter how Allie tried to pretend her full commitment to his marriage proposal, her silent cues did nothing to conceal the truth. He knew he still loved Adrian, now her ex-husband. He saw the pain in her eyes, the quiet struggles she did that day. He felt the bitterness she felt inside and understood the sparks of longing in her stolen gazes at him.


    His worries intensified in the fact that Adrian''s engagement was dissolved. It would have been easier if he would be marrying Jane, at least Allie would have no choice but to forget, move on and start anew. But now that Adrian''s identity made him free, he was afraid that while she would be with him, her heart would still long for her ex-husband.


    "Sir, someone wants to talk to you. He said his name is Adrian," the loudspeaker mode made Mr. Dioko turn his head towards his son.


    For a moment, the father and son locked their eyes, the latter obviously wanted to solicit his advise. For the peace of their home which Mr. Dioko wanted to maintain now that he was granted with a new lease on life, made him nod in approval.


    "Let''s listen to what he would say."


    Hayri nodded as well but with a frown. What if he could not hide his worries and fear?


    Not long after, Ajie was ushered by the guard into their meeting room. It was a small function room that Mr. Dioko used to hold business meetings in his home. Inside was a long, wooden table brightened up with a centerpiece of fresh and white orchids. Closer to the entrance was a set of leather couches and a dark glass center table.


    Mr. Dioko sat on the farthest couch, a cup of tea was on the side table next to him. Hayri was on the seat near the entrance, waiting for Ajie''s arrival.


    To Hayri''s surprise, Ajie was holding a child in his hand and needless to be reminded, she recognized that she was his and Allie''s daughter. Her looks alone could not deny whose daughter she was. She was such Allie''s small and perfect replica, her mother''s smallest details were carved in her features.


    The child approached him with her eyes on the floor, took his hand to her forehead before she tiptoed and kissed him on the cheek.


    "Good morning, daddy."


    Daddy...the word stuck into his throat and it prevented him from answering. He did not remember that Allie had mentioned about training her daughter to acknowledge him as her new dad. Or was Ajie training her instead as a sign of his concession that he was losing his wife to him?


    Before he could make more guess as possible answers to his questions, the child''s warm hand around her neck reminded him of her presence. Somehow, he was quick to come back on his senses.He kissed her as well on her cheeks but it didn''t remove the frown and surprised look on his face.


    Chloe stepped forward and looked over to the direction of Mr. Dioko. She then walked towards him with her eyes on the floor. She also took his hand to her forehead and tiptoed to kiss him on the cheek.


    "Good morning, Lolo," her childish voice floated in his ears like sweet music and a bright smile curved in his mouth. The joy of having a child in his home made his heart flutter, reminding him of the days when Hayri was still a child. Fascinated, he lifted her up into his lap and hugged her.


    "How''s my granddaughter?" he said, his eyes glowing in fascination.


    "Hungry!" came her reply which shocked Mr. Dioko.


    He looked up to Ajie with a frown and scolded him with his looks on how irresponsible he was for allowing her child to go hungry. Yet, Ajie could find no trace of hatred at all in his face for being his son''s rival.


    "We will be quick. I promised to take her to her favorite fastfood restaurant," Ajie explained, his smile appearing despite the tension which started when he first saw them.


    Mr. Dioko reached out for the wireless phone and ordered some food to be brought in. "Do you like chicken, cakes and ice cream, my love?"


    Chloe nodded in a vigorous manner which elicited a bout of laughter from Mr. Dioko.


    "For a moment, my love, okay? Now, sit beside Lolo and I will show you a video," Mr. Dioko said as he placed an ear set on Chloe.


    As the video began to play in his laptop, he motioned to Adrian to go ahead with his purpose in coming. Ajie then settled himself at the couch opposite to Hayri.


    "I would be stating my purpose straightforwardly. Though I may look silly to do this but I cling to the belief that there''s no harm in trying," Adrian began explaining. He may be facing Hayri but he dropped his eyes on the floor.


    "Sir..." continued Ajie but he was stopped by Hayri.


    "Call me by my name, no need of formalities."


    "Hayri, I need my wife back. Please give her back to me. While I need her as a wife, my daughter also needs her as a mother."


    Hayri knew this was coming but despite his emotional preparation, his statement still hit him like a dagger. With clenched teeth, he threw him his sharp and confronting accusations.


    "How dare you ask me that when it was you, yourself, who initiated your marriage annulment just because you can''t wait to marry your sister!" he raised his voice on the word ''sister'' to put a weight on it.


    Ajie shook his head to deny it. "I know I am misunderstood. Jane is always a sister to me eversince the beginning. If it was not for Mr. Lopez, I would never propose."


    "You''re denying her, now that you know she''s your sister?" he confronted but the words of Mrs. Lopez suddenly revisited his thoughts.


    "...and you, sweetheart, haven''t you wondered why Ajie could not give you an affection beyond the limits of plain friendship?"


    Ajie''s answer then broke into his train of thoughts.


    "My heart is an open book to Jane and she knows why I ended the marriage. It''s because I was blinded with anger and jealousy when I saw you kissing her..." Ajie hoped to remind Hayri on that day he met him at the airport.


    "I''m never a saint to keep myself from imagining that you were doing that to her for five long years. And who would not when I knew you were living together? I even believed that you were doing something beyond the mere act of kissing in the comfort of being alone on your bed. And I was hurt with the thought of her staining our marriage not to mention her caring for another man instead of her own husband."


    "What if I say we really did it? If I''ll give her back to you, won''t you vomit anymore in the thought that she has been with me?"


    "All I knew is that I cannot live without her."


    "Look at yourself, Adrian. Jane is my bestfriend. How can you afford to hurt her?"


    "How I wish to spare her that. She certainly do not deserve to be hurt."


    "You''re selfish."


    "I''m sorry if that''s how you look at me, " answered Ajie and right after he ended his statement, he realized he had really lost Allie over to him.


    Without reservations, he wailed in defeat and stopped asking. He knew that this one, last effort he hoped to work by placing his own pride aside, would be futile.


    Seeing that her dad was crying bitterly, Chloe squirmed from Mr. Dioko''s lap and ran to him, crying with him as well with the complete innocence of a child. Never expecting for this scene to happen, Hayri and Mr. Dioko were pinned to their seats, too startled to react.


    After a long while, Ajie stood up and held Chloe''s hand. Giving both Hayri and Mr. Dioko a nod, he proceeded to the door. But just as he and Chloe were about to step out, Allie appeared at the doorway.


    Ajie froze for a while, seeing her in the home of Hayri sealed his defeat completely. He glanced up at her for a second but continued to stride afterwards without looking back.


    Unprepared for the scene, Allie was dumbfounded to see him and her daughter. She was only able to react when Ajie made a final step out of the main entrance.


    "Ajie, Chloe, wait!" she shouted as she gave a puzzled look at Hayri before running after them but her shouts fell on a deaf ear.


    "Chloe, " she shouted again and saw her child looking back at her but her daughter''s sympathy at the moment was with her dad who was in bitter tears.


    With drooping shoulders and confusion, she walked back towards Hayri and asked. "What is he doing here?"


    "Zheena, do you still want to marry me?" asked Hayri, his voice started to crack.


    "Of course, I have my word."


    "Even if Adrian''s engagement was cancelled?"


    Allie creased her brows. Why would Adrian break off his engagement? The second highlight of the ship''s inauguration was his engagement to Jane, how could he dishonor his words?


    "I don''t think so."


    She did not take note of the difference in Hayri''s statement. He did not say, "even if Adrian would cancel the engagement" but rather said, " even if Adrian''s engagement was cancelled".


    "He comes here to ask you from me. He still loves you, Zheena."


    Allie let out a weak smile but rather than staying further to talk to him, she hurried to excuse herself for the bathroom. But Hayri understood her lame excuse.

 Chapter 131 - Will You Remember Then?

    Early the next morning, Allie was awakened by the persistent buzzing of the doorbell. She was alone in her new house and the helper she hired only came during daytime. She wondered who would be looking for her in the wee hours of the morning, granting that there were only few who knew about her new home. Hayri didn''t have the habit of surprising her, he always made a call whenever he was coming over.


    She stood up and her abrupt movement made her stagger on the floor. Perhaps, it was because of her lack of sleep. She was too bothered in seeing Ajie and her daughter in Hayri''s home and thinking about it, made her sleep elude her. She rushed up to open the door and her eyes widened in surprise.


    "Mommy!" screamed Chloe as soon as her head popped out on the door.


    "Sweetheart!" she squealed in the joy of her surprise.


    She bent down quickly to pick her up and her sudden movement increased the lightheadedness she felt a while ago. Just as she was able to stand up, her vision seemed to blur and she stepped backward to find her balance. Somehow, her dizziness worsened and as her instinct dictated her, she secured her daughter''s head with her hands before she lost control and fell down. To her relief, Ajie caught her up before she fell headlong into the ground.


    "Are you sick?" he asked as with one hand, he picked Chloe from her arms while his other hand secured her in place.


    "I''m not, just dizzy due to lack of sleep," she answered, her heartbeats quickened to the warmth and familiarity of his touch.


    "Can we get in?" he asked again, his eyes were on the door.


    "Yes, of course," she stuttered, ashamed in forgetting to invite them in.


    Ajie guided them towards the couch and when she was settled well, he went out again. He was already carrying pouches when he was back, the inviting aroma of a black coffee dispersing into the living room.


    "Can we have breakfast together?"he said with a pursed smile, clearly not expecting for her to turn him down.


    "I have not cooked yet," she agreed indirectly, not wanting to spoil the moment. She was willing to keep a tie with him to the extent of plain friendship, if that would mean bringing Chloe over to her at times.


    "I''ve brought enough for the three of us. Do you feel better now?"


    She nodded silently, her chin was on top of her daughter''s head while her arms were around her.


    "Come on," Ajie stretched out a hand to lift her up and she couldn''t understand why she just wanted to submit. She couldn''t remember a moment with him lately where they were not arguing.


    "Baby, can you just please walk over to the table? Mommy is not feeling well," he added when he saw that Chloe did not move.


    "Uh-uh! Pick mommy up!" her sweet voice tickled the insides of her heart that she ended out laughing, only to realize that she was lifted up into the air.


    "Put me down!" she hissed, tears were already escaping from her eyes. She really missed his warmth and it damn felt good at the moment.


    "It''s your daughter''s order," he replied and a smile broke into his face.


    Chloe tugged her arm as she pulled herself closer to her. "Mommy, I like that!" she said as her little finger pointed out to a pancake in a box.


    "Sure, my love," she chuckled. The wonderful feeling of having a complete family wrapped up her heart.


    Ajie stood up and went over to the kitchen to find sets of plates and cutleries. He then poured out the coffee from the paper cups to the mugs he got from the cupboard.


    "Shall I put a cream or you want to leave it black?"


    Allie looked up before she answered and Ajie snapped his finger as if he remembered something. "So stupid of me, I forgot you love black."


    A sense of inexplicable warmth spread into her heart. Why is the human heart too difficult to teach, she thought. She shook her head as she pondered about this. She just couldn''t help but feel silly over her longing to have him back. She knew there was already Jane and she was commited to Hayri.


    "You like beef tapa so I bought two for both of us," his voice broke into her thoughts again.


    "Thank you," was all she could say.


    But as Ajie opened up the box to transfer it into the plate, the delicious aroma infiltrated into her nose. Instead of stirring up her appetite, the spicy aroma created an unpleasant reaction in her stomach that she ran to the sink to throw up.


    "You have to see a doctor," Ajie said as he rubbed her back until she felt better.


    "It''s just hyperacidity. I skipped meals lately and had too much coffee," she replied after a short rest of vomiting bouts.


    "Still. You need medications for


    that."


    Ajie guided her back to the table but the smell of the food tortured her once more. She ran again to the sink.


    "Jie, please. Remove the food. You know how I love it I don''t know why it feel strange this morning. I''m sorry."


    Ajie quickly wrapped the food again in its box and he only brought Allie back to the dining table when the aroma of their breakfast set totally disappeared. Allie''s eyes were almost bulging out due to so much vomiting. His heart was wrenched in seeing her that way and so he pulled her close to him in a tight embrace. Allie did not protest. She closed her eyes instead as she rested her head in his chest.


    "Jie, thanks for bringing Chloe over,"


    she said as she calmed down from her panting, "you just don''t know how happy I am."


    "I''m giving her back to you," he said and his voice was hoarse. It seemed that it took him a great courage to finally say the words.


    "Really?" she looked up and his tender eyes met hers.


    "I was supposed to keep her away from you. She is the only bridge whom I hoped to link us back together. But mom talked to me about this..."


    Allie smiled. Issa was always their peace moderator eversince from the start. She didn''t know about the revelation and had never opened her social apps. She didn''t want to see the sweet and happy faces of Ajie and Jane during the engagement.


    "You mean we no longer need court proceedings for the agreement in child custody?"


    "No need," he smiled bitterly as with one hand, he removed the straying hair strand in her eyes.


    Overwhelmed, Allie hugged her tight for a long while.


    "What make you change your mind?" she asked further as she burrowed her face in his chest, wondering why she seemed to forget easily all the pain he caused her.


    "Because I love you," he answered and his arms tightened around her.


    Allie was lost for words and she just couldn''t get the courage to reply.


    "Allie, as much as I still want you in my life, I want you to know that it is my deepest regret that this little family we have, has to be broken."


    Seeing that Allie did not answer, he went further.


    "Yet, somehow, I must learn to accept the consequence of what I did. Rest assured that you are in good hands." His voice was already cracking.


    Allie''s heart sank and once again her tears threatened to flood down. "Why were you there in Hayri''s home?"


    Ajie chuckled lightly before he answered. "I tried to talk to him to ask you back but I know it was like asking your last piece of food before you die."


    "Jie, I''m sorry," was all she could muster. She just couldn''t turn back.


    "Allie, can I ask a favor?"


    "What?"


    "On your wedding day, as you''ll walk down the aisle, will you remember then that once in your life, there was us?"

 Chapter 132 - More Than My Life

    "Now, tell me what''s going on," Dr. Yee urged her to talk as she and Hayri sat opposite her in her wooden desk.


    "I am into lots of stress lately, doc, and these deprived me of sleep."


    "Go ahead," Dr. Yee nodded as she gazed at Allie intently.


    "Lately, I have stomach discomfort which I self-medicated with antacids. Just this morning, after I woke up from a short sleep, I felt a sense of lightheadedness. I staggered when I walk but I just ignored it until the feeling worsened and I really felt dizzy that I threw up."


    "Your lack of sleep can explain your lightheadedness but which symptom took place first? Your dizziness or your urge to throw up?"


    Allie paused to think. Her vomiting did not follow after her dizziness and it was the smell of the food which triggered it.


    "It was not closely connected, doc."


    "What do you mean?"


    "I was already feeling dizzy but the smell of food worsened it."


    Dr. Yee nodded and a light smile broke into her face. "Have you experienced this before?"


    "I have not," Allie answered, her brows knitted as she tried to recall an experience in the past.


    "When is your LMP, I mean your last menstrual period?"


    "Five weeks ago."


    "So you''re already missing your period. Are you having a regular or irregular monthly cycle?"


    "Regular," she answered, her brows squinting already to the possible but unexpected diagnosis.


    "Do you mean, doc, she could be pregnant?"


    "Most likely and why not? You''re both young and I am expecting you both to be sexually active."


    Allie glanced up at Hayri and their eyes locked for a moment. Hayri reached out for her hand and held it, accentuating the racing heartbearts which heightened her discomfort.


    "If you''re not planning for a childbirth yet, when was the last time you felt you had an unsafe sex, if you don''t mind?"


    Allie fidgetted on her seat. The sex topic was so awkward on her part, knowing that she and Hayri never went further than kissing. Although Hayri was always unrestrained every time he was tempted to kiss her, he always stopped the moment he was turned on.


    "Doc, we did..." Hayri was about to tell the doctor that they were not into sex yet but Allie interrupted him.


    "That was, I think, almost two weeks after my last LMP."


    Dr. Yee nodded again. "So that is a great possibility."


    Dr. Yee looked down, pulled a sheet of prescription pad and write her orders for laboratory tests.


    "Please see me once the result is in."


    Allie prepared herself for the worst. Hayri would be very disappointed and she was afraid. She did not see him yet in this side of him, although his determination to kill her before as the traitor made her see what he was capable of.


    "Let''s go to the laboratory," he said, his expression never showed a slight sign of anger.


    "Hayri..." she protested, she wanted him to confront her right away. Every second of waiting would be a great fatal emotional torture.


    "Don''t you want to talk to me?" she


    said once they were out of the clinic.


    "You know I always want to talk to you and be with you in all the days of my life," he answered as he kissed the top of her head and wrapped an arm around her shoulders.


    His answer was killing her. Though Ajie was her ex-husband but when she gave her commitment to marry him, they were already annuled.


    She pulled him into a corner, away from any onlookers and pressed him on the wall.


    "I''m sorry for not telling you. I just didn''t want to trouble you. You already had much on your plate."


    "What is it?" he replied while he reached out a hand to touch her chin.


    "At that time when I tried to talk to Ajie about Chloe''s custody, he refused to talk to me. I was forced to go to our old home to find him. He was drunk and wretched at that time and with the influence of alcohol, he succeeded on me..."


    Hayri responded with a bitter smile and to wait for his reply, seemed like eternity. After a thoughtful stare at her which almost made her cry in guilt, he answered.


    "Zheena, what made it different from the thought of you doing it with him everyday when you were together and doing it lately?"


    "But I might be pregnant," she argued.


    "Even Adrian would not suspect that it''s not mine. Put this in your mind. It''s our baby and I am the father."


    Allie sighed. To Hayri it may appeared as a sigh of relief, but to her, it''s a sigh of frustration. She still wanted to raise up the baby with the real father. However it was not easy for her to back out. How she wished he was angered and that he himself would be the one to drive her away. But Hayri was stubborn as a leech. Nothing could easily change his decision.


    After her blood extraction, they were instructed to come back after three hours and that it would be Dr. Yee herself to explain the result to them.


    To relieve themselves from the boredom of waiting, Hayri treated her to a movie in a theathre closed to the clinic.


    As she scanned down the titles, she picked up in the end a family movie and Hayri agreed without a second thought. It was a beautiful story with moral lessons especially to the children. It ended just in time for them to come back to the clinic.


    Just when they got out from the theatre, she saw Ajie and Chloe qeueing up in a popcorn stall. She was about to step away to avoid them but Chloe saw her as she turned her head. She just felt uncomfortable to be seen with Hayri. However, the child ran immediately towards her and she just couldn''t drive her away.


    Just this morning, Ajie promised to give her back her daughter but since he insisted that she should see a doctor, he decided to take her to a movie first. Ajie no longer offered to accompany her, knowing that it would be an act of disrespect to Hayri and herself.


    "How''s the check up?" Ajie asked as he followed to pick Chloe up from her.


    "We''re still going back to the clinic for the result," she answered with an awkward smile.


    "I see," Ajie said as he took Chloe''s hand in his. He glanced up to Hayri and nodded to acknowledge him before he asked permission to go ahead.


    Allie followed them with her eyes and a lump formed in her throat. To distract herself, she pulled Hayri''s arm and lead him to an opposite direction.


    "Miss Allyza, congratulations! Your serum pregnancy test is positive. Your other tests are all normal, so your symptoms lately must be related to pregnancy."


    Before she could speak out, she touched her lower abdomen and smiled. Hayri also stood up behind her and hugged her from the back like he was the real father. If it was only about his kindness to save her face in front of the doctor or his effort to start acknowledging the baby as her own, she was not comfortable at all.


    "Doc, when can we hear the baby''s heartbeat?" Hayri asked, while still hugging her from behind.


    "Just please come back after a month. As for now, I will be giving her folic acid."


    _____


    "Dad, what shall I do?" Hayri said as he crouched on his bed, his back on the headboard.


    It was already a week since that trip on the doctor and everyday he was haunted with the guilt in depriving the baby from the real father. Even if Allie was legally free, he couldn''t set aside the fact that both Ajie and Allie still loved each other and that their family could still be saved. The pain and the fear of losing her was almost unbearable but the guilt of depriving the right of a child to his or her real father, was more disturbing.


    "Son, how much do you love her?"


    "More than my life."


    Mr. Dioko chuckled, his pampered child few years ago had now grown up as a man and was now entangled in the web of complicated emotion.


    "Son, a song goes this way, ''if you love someone, set her free''. Can you do that?"


    _____


    Mr. Dioko was already sitting down in the farthest corner of a VIP room in a certain five-star restaurant when Mary and Sam arrived. In the table, different kinds of steaming dishes were already spread out. Mr. Dioko stood up to welcome them and allowed them to settle comfortably in their seats across him.


    "Let''s have a dinner, first," he said as soon as they were seated but Mary and Sam were too nervous to have the appetite.


    "This meeting concerns with the marriage of our children. As you see, it''s very complicated," Mr. Dioko began while pausing momentarily to chew on his food.


    Mary and Sam nodded while they quietly picked up some food into their plates as a respect.


    "Mary, Sam, try on this one. This is the restaurant''s specialty. I''m sure you''ll like this also," Mr. Dioko tried to lighten up the tension by shifting his topic to the food. He cut a slice for both of them and placed it on their plates.


    Yet, no matter how Mr.Dioko cheered them up, their gap in their social status was too great that they remained uncomfortable and intimidated.


    "Mary, Sam, I''m calling both of you for this important matter. This world is so small after all. Who would ever think that I will be meeting Mary again."


    Mary and Sam stole glances at each other and both their heartbeats accelerated.

 Chapter 133 - Everything Will Be Quick

    "Mary, may I ask before I proceed? Does Sam know about your secret with Zara?"


    Mary''s hand started to shake. Few years after she betrayed Zara, the news of her death reached her. She became too guilty that she never got the courage to see her even in her last day at the funeral. She lamented for her loss in silence and at a distance but somehow, she could never bring herself to regret the sin she had committed.


    "Sir, before I''ll answer your question, how much do you know about it?"


    "I can support it with a legal paper."


    "What do you mean?"


    "I gave in to her desperation and executed the plan," he answered and a smile of satisfaction spread into his face.


    Mr. Dioko watched Mary''s eyes widened in fear as her face turned crimson in one moment then turned pale as a white sheet in the next. She stared at him in disbelief and in the next second, shook her head as if to wake herself up from a nightmare.


    "No! It couldn''t be," she protested, the revelation was just too hard for her to chew. A chilling sensation ran down from her nape to her back, making her fine hair stand as the scene unfolded into her mind.


    "But yes, it''s me.You were both staying at a resort at that time and you were already drunk when I arrived."


    Mary felt as if anytime, she would faint. Of all people, why him? She just couldn''t accept and imagine herself being with this man the night she agreed to her bestfriend''s request.


    "Now, tell me. How much does your husband know about it?" Mr. Dioko repeated his question while shifting his gaze from her to Sam.


    "I was already pregnant when we met but Sam didn''t care about my past. He never even asked what happened," she stammered as with shaking lips she looked up to the dark gaze of her husband.


    Mary was not numb at all that she could not feel the rising tension Sam was enduring at the moment despite his silence. His frown deepened and she felt he could break at any moment. The train of their conversation was already predictable.


    "Sam, allow me to tell you what happened. Zara, my wife and Mary were bestfriends... "


    ____


    Sarah and Mary were bestfriends, indeed. Their bond started during their childhood age. They were neighbors and were each other''s only playmate. They grew up and went to school together until they were in their early teens.


    When they reached high school, a cruel fate hit Mary''s life. Both her parents died in a car accident and she was left at the mercy of her relatives who were all suffering from poverty.


    To spare a relative from financial troubles, she applied as a working student to a male teacher whose wife had died due to cancer. Her only job was to take care of his six-year-old daughter until it was time for her to leave for her night class.


    She was just being considerate enough that to add another mouth to feed would really be a burden to the family she would be staying with.


    Her life went well at first and she was well-provided until his teacher''s attention was turned to her. It was perhaps out of loneliness and hunger for intimate companionship that he set an eye on her. Aside from their age gap and her unreadiness for such relationship, she refused to his romantic advances. Not knowing that her constant decline challenged him and set his obsession on fire.


    One night, as she returned from school, her teacher entered her room with a knife, forcing her to submit herself. If not for Zara who, unexpectedly, came over to find her, she knew she could have been molested. She shuddered in recalling that scene. What would be her shield against that glistening, sharp blades?


    From then on, through Zara''s intervention, her parents were convinced to have Mary live with them in their home. And perhaps out of compassion to her industry and diligence, Zara''s parents also sent her to school until they both graduated in college. However, Zara and her family migrated to US and she was left alone to fend for herself.


    Years passed and Zara met Mr. Dioko at the height of his success. She got married with him after some years of challenging relationship which thrived under constant battles against ambitious women. However, they were not blessed with a child and that failure caused a spike of her insecurities. They often quarreled due to her unfounded jealousy until Mr.Dioko decided to move here in the Philippines. He hoped that by allowing her to connect with her old friends and family members, her focus would be diverted to something sensible, rather than finding fault in him and brooding for her barrenness.


    Due to business matters, Zara came a week ahead of Mr. Dioko. She took the chance as her vacation before she would get entangled by the hassles of moving into their new home. With no one else in mind, she called Mary and the days did not go by without her venting about her insecurities for marrying a successful man with too many women as her rivals.


    "Zara, you should give him a child. The baby would make your husband stay, " suggested Mary as Zara came crying again after a phone call with Mr. Dioko.


    "But how? We had already tried everything and had been to many gynecologists."


    "It''s your stress that causes it. Why not spend a vacation with him and relax?"


    "I have polycystic ovaries. The chance of me getting pregnant is very thin."


    "How about considering an adoption?"


    Zara paused for a moment. An idea flashed into her mind as Mary''s suggestion left her lips. Why did it occur only now? She was more than willing if it would be his child.


    "Mary, I swear. I will kill myself if I''ll discover someday that my husband is seeing another woman."


    Mary got startled. She had just read an article about suicidal tendencies. And the warning was still clear in her mind. "Never ignore even indirect references about commiting suicide since a person saying it would really do it when opportunity strikes."


    "Stay away from that thought, Zara. There must be ways."


    "No, Mary. I really swear. You''ll know it when I''m gone."


    "Zara stop it!"


    Mary reached out for Zara''s hand. She was already sobbing and it tore her apart. There must be incidents in their marriage that caused her insecurities and she couldn''t blame her for being irrational.


    "Then help me," said Zara as she held her bestfriend''s gaze with begging eyes.


    "Zara, If only I could, why not?" Mary assured her, not knowing that she fell into her trap.


    Zara sobbed louder as she poked herself for being so useless. "It''s the price I have to pay for marrying someone like him!"


    "Zara, please tell me. How can I help you?" Mary was already teary-eyed, Zara was just too contagious.


    "Really? You''re willing to help me?"


    "Promise."


    "Then sleep with my husband. All your needs will be provided. The moment you will deliver the baby, she will be mine and you''ll be free."


    Mary was shocked beyond words that, all of a sudden, she felt that the world had stopped spinning. She stared at her in disbelief, searching for the right words to describe how desperate her friend had become.


    "Mary, I promise to do it in a less-guilty way. I haven''t told you yet who my husband is, right? And I haven''t shown you his photos."


    "Just take a little wine and a sleeping pill and everything will be quick. I will also make it sure that he will be too drunk to remember who you are. You''ll wake up in the morning and feel like it didn''t happen."

 Chapter 134 - Mary

    The angry roar of the slapping waves against the stretch of boulders few meters from her cottage, pierced into Mary''s ears. As soon as her consciousness resurfaced, she remembered the deal the night before and she jerked up from her bed. The sudden movement made her pause, a searing pain pressed on her temples. She then remembered, she had too much wine. It was her first time to try it but the fear of what she had agreed to sacrifice, made her want to drown herself with the magic of the fluid until she''d make it sure she would remember nothing.


    She looked down to check herself, all the pieces of her clothing were still intact. Yet somewhere between her thighs, the pain of a seemingly lacerated wound reminded her that the deed was indeed done.


    While thinking about it and imagining what it was like, a sudden sense of humiliation engulfed her. She laughed but the sound of her hollowed and derisive laughter echoed back to her own ears, reminding her of how foolish she was to consent to the plan. She may had owed Zara her life but the price


    she had agreed to pay was too great.


    She couldn''t understand but all of a sudden, she felt she just lost a great piece of herself. That first experience would have been of thrill and butterflies in her stomach, had it been shared with all her consciousness with the man she loved. She was sure the execution was cruel, there was no making out like what she saw on the movies. There was no foreplay to prepare herself for the penetration. The opened sachet of a lubricant on top of her bedside table said it all. And it broke her heart.


    What had been a course of laughter a moment ago turned into sobbing. A great part of her was taken away but she hadn''t even seen the face of the benefactor. Never in her life had she dreamed of becoming a surrogate mother, not even for the child of her bestfriend whom she owed her existence.


    Before the first rays of the sun broke into the pitch-dark skies, she stood up to leave. But as she picked up her things, her gaze fell on the bedside table. There was a note and a passbook...


    "Mary, you may want to breathe for the moment but please see me once the seed is planted. I will take care of you as promised, in a place where no one knows us and I''ll send you overseas once the baby is out."


    _____


    The cry of a baby woke her up as the nurse placed the tiny bundle in her arms. The labor was long and the pain was excruciating, making her fall asleep and exhausted right after she heard her sharp cries and the doctor''s announcement.


    "Miss Mary, she''s so beautiful!"


    Mary took a deep breath and smiled. A tear escaped from her eyes as she caressed the soft and yawning bundle in her arm. How could she give her up? She came out from herself and her tiny heart pumped the same blood that run into her system.


    "Does she have a foreign blood?" the nurse asked further and the question pinched her heart. How would she know?


    "Yes," she answered and was even almost tempted to say, "not just a foreigner but a stranger".


    Mary''s thoughts strayed back to the day she decided to flee from their place. The amount of money Zara deposited into her account was more than enough to support her even if she would not find a job while waiting for her delivery. The red lines on the pregnancy test kit beamed at her even in her dreams and that eventually prompted her to retract from their agreement. She knew it would shatter Zara''s expectations and excitement, or it might even kill her. But she had thought about this a thousand times. She just couldn''t give away her child.


    Her thoughts then drifted off to Zara. How is she now? How does she reacted to her betrayal? Does she and her husband know that the plan was successful? If so, why don''t they chase her? If they wanted to find her, they can always use their connections and resources.


    "Ma''am, somebody wants to see you. Should I let him in?" the voice of the nurse broke into her recollection.


    Before she could answer, a tall figure appeared entered the doorway. A big grin was plastered on his face as with those tender eyes he looked at her and the baby.


    "Is he the father?" the nurse asked again.


    "Yes. Can you now please bring me the birth certificate so that I can sign it now?"


    "Sam..." Mary began to protest. He may be a very good friend, a confidante and companion especially during this difficult stage of her life, but she did not want his pity.


    "Let''s get married right after this," he said as he reached out for her hand.


    "But..." she wanted to remind him of her status; of her child where he was not the father.


    "I don''t care about your past. What matters to me is you and the baby."


    ____


    Mr. Dioko looked at Sam with glints of admiration in his eyes. This man raised up his child without the need to know who made up her personality. He molded in her a beautiful heart and shaped her characters into an admirable woman that she is now.


    "Sam, thank you," Mr. Dioko said as he reached out his hand over him. "You''re such a good father to her."


    Sam gave out a light smile as he accepted his hand. "No need to thank me. She''s my daughter."


    "Of course."


    Mr. Dioko held their gazes for a moment before he placed down an envelope on the table. With shaking hands, Mary lifted it up and pulled out the sheet of paper. Her eyes immediately fell on the conclusion and a strange feeling wrapped up her whole being.


    In bold letters, the impression was written.


    "Based on our testing results through the analyses of the genetic markers presented, the probability of the paternity is 99.9999%. Thus, it is proven that Gerald Dioko is the biological father of Allyza Reyes."


    £¬

 Chapter 135 - A Pair of New Eyes

    The loud noise of the crowd which grew larger every minute, rocked the entire new port that the Gretel''s Shipping Lines prepared for the coming of the world''s second largest cruise ship, the Omnia Vincit de Amor. Flashes of cameras flickered everywhere like endless waves of tiny torches surrounding the shoreline. News portals and internet were buzzing with their headlines rotating around the arrival of Omnia Vincit de Amor from its maiden voyage, the breakthrough of Gretels Shipping Lines and the curiousity revolving around the life of its unheard designer, Zheena Kiamko. Though many of them heard the news of its ceremonial launching, the majority had not; and an uncontrolled size of curious spectators rushed to the venue.


    In one corner, the dignitaries were gathered, including the Lopez''s and the Dioko''s. Only Allie was not there, Hayri did not allow her. The curious spectators may be uncontrollable and he couldn''t allow to expose her to the risk especially now that she was pregnant. The discomfort of the first trimester of pregnancy was pressing on her and her nauseated status would exacerbate in the mixed-up odor of this large group of people. She sat quietly in her heavily-tinted car with personal guards on close watch. She just waited for the time where she would go down for the short exposure once the vessel would finally be anchored.


    "Louise boy, I don''t see Allie. Where is she?"


    Two pairs of eyes turned to look at Mr. Lopez, both were waiting for the answer. Both Ajie and Jane had long wanted to ask but couldn''t dare bring up the topic. He knew she was around, how could the designer be absent in this event?


    "She''ll come out later. She''s not feeling well," Hayri replied, observing


    Ajie''s reaction through his peripheral vision.


    Mr. Lopez''s brows knitted, showing his worries. Today is her big event and she should be in her best stamina to rejoice in the recognition.


    "Sorry to hear that but why?" he asked further, moving his eyes from Jane to Ajie.


    "It''s just the ugly symptoms of pregnancy." Hayri''s expression was that of a great worry and Ajie couldn''t help himself but look away.


    "Jane, why do women have to suffer that? I really hate the discomfort."


    Jane got startled, she wasn''t just prepared for this topic.


    "It''s indeed troublesome. That''s where the father of the child is needed. It is in this stage that they need emotional gratification. Pregnant women have mood changes, oftentimes crying for no reason."


    Jane didn''t know that her statement worsened Ajie''s pain and longing to be with Allie again. He was not around during her pregnancy on Chloe and the sense of remorse haunted him further.


    He kept his eyes away from them to conceal the trace of pain in his eyes until the sound of giant ropes dropping on the water and the screeching of steels and iron bars indicated that the anchor was lowered down on the seabed. The master of the ceremony''s voice on a public address system then floated into the air and with a cheerful and loud voice, he welcomed the arrival of Omnia Vincit de Amor, the world''s second largest and luxurious cruise ship!


    A deafening round of applause and squeals bursted in and Allie stepped down from her car, accompanied by the guards and ushered by Hayri and the construction team.


    Followed by thunderous round of applause and sea of camera lights, the entourage climbed up into the accomodation ladder until they reached the top platform of the stern. Facing the crowd, Allie then waved and smiled as her name reverberated into the open air.


    "Honored guests, friends and family, ladies and gentlemen, allow me to present Miss Zheena Kiamko, the beautiful and young designer of the world''s second largest and luxurious cruise ship, Amor Omnia Vincit."


    Bowing down before the audience as an acknowledgment, she then gestured for everyone to come up into the vessel and join in the banquet.


    The crowd were then ushered to see the breathtaking beauty and luxury of the spacious internal structure of the gigantic vessel. Gasps of pleasure and admiration were heard everywhere as everyone made their tour around. Looking at the people''s reaction, Ajie''s heart swell with pride and regret. This was his wife''s creation, supposedly his and her family''s greatest pride.


    ___


    Allie and Hayri remained standing up at the stage until all the guests were properly accomodated into their designated tables in the banquet hall. Before they went down to join the dignitaries on the VIP lane, she placed an arm around Hayri''s waist and gestured for him to stop.


    "Hayri," she paused while waiting for him to look at her, "can you just please announce ahead the details of our marriage?"


    Hayri just responded with a questioning smile.


    "The aroma of the food makes me want to throw up. I must get inside the room as soon as possible."


    Hayri nodded again with an assuring look that he understood. However, his next words astounded her.


    "Zheen..." he paused to swallow the lump forming in his throat, "I''m sorry to tell you this. I have changed my mind."


    Allie threw at him a puzzled look as her arm loosened itself away from around his waist.


    "I am about to tell you that I am leaving in 15 minutes for an important matter," Hayri tried his best to say it in his most calm way.


    "What? Today is also our engagement party. Is it not important to you? Why didn''t you cancel the appointment?" Allie threw him a disgruntled look, almost crying in her humiliation.


    "I''m sorry, Zheen. I''m breaking off the engagement. I''ll come back someday as soon as I can look at you with a new pair of eyes."


    His statement came as a bomb to Allie that she froze and stared at him in disbelief for a long while. What does he mean? Is he cancelling because he couldn''t accept her pregnancy? How could he disappoint and put her to shame?


    Perhaps due to her pregnancy affecting her mood, she got emotional. Her eyes reddened instantly and tears threatened a deluge. To spare herself from public shame, she sprang up to her feet and paced hurriedly towards the direction of the cabin. Somehow, her sudden movement caused her to feel dizzy and her world seemed to spin harder that she staggered. All of a sudden, her vision blurred and before she knew it, she lost her balance and fell down.


    The last thing she remembered was that she was about to hit the floor, but to her surprise, a strong hand steadied her.

 Chapter 136 - In Letting Go

    Ajie had been watching them stealthily. He saw them at the side of the stage when Allie wrapped up her arm around Hayri''s waste. He saw those tender eyes Hayri gave to her and saw the intimate way Allie talked to him. The sight was ripping his heart apart but he knew that was part of the price he had to pay for letting her go. She was pregnant of Hayri''s child and the thought of her in Hayri''s arms aggravated the pain.


    He followed her through his eyes everywhere, finding a chance to congratulate her personally for the intricate works of her hand. When he saw her leaving, he assumed that she was going to a powder room. He rushed to catch up to her, only to see her staggered.


    Her weight on his arms in the impact of her sudden fall was nothing compared to the pressing weight in his heart. He knew that somewhere in her lower abdomen, a fetal heart was beating.


    When Allie was steadied, he looked up to find Hayri to pick her up. Through the public''s eyes, it was such a disrespect on Hayri''s part if they would saw him hugging her ex-wife, now his fiancee. He saw him coming and he gestured to turn her over to him.


    "Adrian, thank you. I must bring her to the cabin now." Ajie just nodded but his forehead creased in so much worry.


    Ajie was about to turn away but the voice of Hayri mentioning his name made him stop.


    "Adrian, I will be leaving in few minutes. Can you please watch her over when the doctor leaves?" Hayri then informed him that he was expecting this to happen and that he hired Dr. Yee ahead.


    Ajie stared at him, wondering if he was mistaken. How could he entrust her to him knowing that he could make use of the chance to win her back? In a puzzled look, he confirmed, "Me?"


    "Of course," Hayri smiled and the gentleness of the act surprised him.


    Mr. Dioko followed them to the cabin. His heart bleed in seeing his son fighting to embrace the truth. It was not his fault to be in love with his sister, it was their own mistake as parents for taking matters in their own hands in a taboo way.


    Hayri was there on a separate function room when he talked to Mary and Sam. He was watching them through a secret video monitoring. The news of Allie''s pregnancy whom Ajie was the father, prompted him to push through with the investigation of Mary''s background. He also knew that in Allie''s heart, it was still Adrian and he just couldn''t help himself from hurting for his son.


    He didn''t need the DNA test to prove his paternity to Allie. Allie''s physical attributes spoke so much of her real mother and many of her features resembled Zara in many ways. He even wondered if it ever occured to Allie that she looked so different from her parents.


    When Mary escaped and betrayed them, he knew she bore his child but he chose to set her free instead. He never looked for her and was never angered even if it broke Zara''s heart. He rather admired her for the greatness of her heart, for being a mother enough to keep the child.


    Watching him sitting beside Allie on her bed while caressing her face, his heart sank. He knew his son was facing a painful battle on a losing ground. In fact, It was through his request to give him more time to accept the truth that he decided to postpone the announcement. If only he was to decide, he couldn''t wait to tell the whole world that he was the father of the second largest ship designer; the father of the lady who changed the course of their lives and the father of the wonderful lady whose courage made her defy against the storms of life.


    "Son, it''s time."


    Hayri looked up to him and answered, "Yes, dad." He then bent down to kiss Allie on the forehead and left the room without looking back.


    Before Hayri stepped down from the ship, Mr. Dioko hugged him and whispered in a cracked voice, "Son, this decision makes me prouder of you."


    Hayri hugged him back without a word, drops of tears escaped from his eyes. He must leave the place right now or he might not be able to control himself. Today was supposedly his most unforgettable moment but through Allie''s morning sessions with him for five years, God changed his heart and made him able to let go and accept defeat.


    Seated on his car that would take him to the airport, he pulled out his phone and made some calls. And before he placed it down again, he closed his eyes as he pressed the call button.


    "You may now go inside. The doctor is about to leave."


    ___


    Inside the cabin, Dr. Yee ran the doppler stick around Allie''s abdomen and brisk thuds were heard from a portable machine.


    "Is it my baby''s heartbeat?" Allie chuckled, her eyes beamed in happiness.


    "Yes," Dr. Yee paused and smiled as she stayed the doppler on the thumping point for her to hear further, "congratulations."


    "Doc, I''m scared," Allie uttered, her fear was about the bitter experience she had with Chloe.


    "Aren''t you planning to tell Sir Adrian


    that he''s the father?"


    The narrow opening of the door widened as Ajie walked towards them. Little did they know that he was already there, listening to their conversation.


    "What did I hear?" Ajie threw his gaze at Allie, his heart pounding in a mixed emotion.


    Allie froze at being caught. This was surely not the right time yet. She stared at him with mouth opened, not knowing what to say. Before she could even think of a lie to cover the truth and return to her senses, Ajie''s lips closed over hers. His tears of joy added a salty taste to the hungry kiss she was being punished with.


    Ajie''s thoughts then replayed the encounter and the phone call he had with Hayri... and he understood.

 Chapter 137 - Fear of the Unknown

    Allie was reaching for a folder at the top of the shelf when someone knocked on the door. She did not turn to look who was there. Her secretary was the only one allowed inside her office, except for those who had special arrangement with her. She would always inform her through phone calls once her guests were already in the waiting lounge.


    It was already three weeks since the day the Lopez''s were at her home, surprising her with Adrian''s true identity. No one could ever tell the depth of her joy in such a good news for her ex-husband but the whole family''s treatment of her as still a part of the family, made her awkward. Though in her heart was always him but the damage was already done. Too many people were involved, especially Hayri who did nothing but all what''s best  for her.


    Just as she was about to turn back to her table, a pair of two arms hugged her from behind. With his chin resting close to her neck, he whispered, "I miss you so much."


    "Jie..." she took a deep breath as she tried to push him away, "this is not right anymore."


    "What''s wrong?" he asked, locking his hands on her abdomen.


    "Do I have to keep on reminding you that there''s nothing between us anymore?" A lump then began to form in her throat. If only  things were not as complicated as it were between the two of them, she would have no second thought in choosing him again.


    "No need but no one can stop me, either," he answered, keeping her still in his arms. How he wished he could bring back the time when they were still in the highlands of Molave, carefree and happy.


    "I never cheated on you in those five years I had been with...," she paused, feeling uncomfortable in mentioning the name she knew would hurt him, "Hayri."


    "It''s something in the past. I don''t want to hear about it anymore," he replied, a jolt of pain reminded him of his festering wound inside his heart.


    "But he''s not a past anymore. What I want to point out is that I had been faithful to you though there were things beyond my control," Allie tried to stress it out, hinting out those unrestrained acts of Hayri in pulling her into his stolen kisses. She couldn''t blame him either. All the while, Hayri was thinking she was not tied, according to her false and deceiving backround.


    Ajie did not reply for a moment, though he gazed into his eyes as she spoke. The message she implied spoke so much about her honesty and the sense of remorse engulfed his whole being once again.


    "I also want to be faithful to him, just as I was with you."


    What could he do? He started this and he deserved to suffer the consequnece. He planted a kiss at the top of her head before she released her. "So much for that, let''s have lunch together."


    "That would be better..."


    Ajie then pulled out his phone and called up someone who must likely be a restaurant staff and few minutes later, a delivery boy arrived with the food. He set it up on the coffee table while trying to come up with topics that wouldn''t be uncomfortable for her. Sitting up across her in a while, he decided to bring up business-related agenda.  Only then would she be not agitated to talk to him. It was so sad for him to see that the woman who was once his wife, had already become alienated.


    "If I may suggest, Rough Seas should start manufacturing our own proucts. We are currently depending on suppliers. So, I think the company would become more stable that way."


    Allie looked at him with an amused expression. Just when did this man start considering entrepreneurship? For all she knew, he only wanted to build and design marine vessels but running the business side of it was beyond his forte. Somehow, it was a relief to know that he was the lost son of the famous tycoon of the maritime industry because all his production would be maximized without giving much thought about it. Only that they could have both worked it out together and build a name of their own.  While she could build and design, business was also her forte.


    "This is only my side business, I still want to just build and design... " she protested, having seen through all the hidden agenda behind his proposal.


    "You would not necessarily do it with your own hands. We can always hire people to do it for us."


    "Do you think so?"


    "Of course, let''s do it one at a time and we can plan for it together..." a cunning smile broke out in the corner of his lips.


    "I knew it already. I have seen it ahead," she laughed as she picked and rolled up a tissue paper, throwing it on his face afterwards.


    "Who said I''m denying it? Is it wrong to become my wife''s suitor again?"


    Seeing her laugh just like the old times, warmed his heart. Damn it, she even became more beautiful as the years went by. Her postures and movement became refined and an aura of elegance radiated within her. She''s no longer the typical factory worker, serving a drug cartel.


    He reached out for her hand at the top of the table and covered it with his. When she did not react or pulled her hand away, he stood up and cupped his face with his hands, drowning her laughter afterwards in a deep kiss.


    Little did they know that Mr. Dioko was  there watching them. Neither one of them heard him when he knocked and turned on the knob, their racing heartbeats were too loud for them to notice his presence.


    Only when Mr. Dioko was unable to prevent the slightest sound of a closing door, did they both turned up and saw his retreating figure. Nothing could appease Allie''s guilt as she realized he had seen them. No father would be pleased to see his son''s fiancee kissing her ex-husband. Allie turned pale in her guilt and her already soaring heartbeats were further driving her crazy. What would she do?


    Few minutes after, her phone rang. It was Mr. Dioko. She stared at the phone''s screen and debated within herself,  whether or not she would pick it up. She shivered in fear and Ajie got scared that it might affect the baby.


    "Fear of the unknown is scarier than the truth so you should face him. I''ll shoulder the blame."


    £¬

 Chapter 138 - I Dont Understand

    "Sir..., " she stammered, too guilty of being caught in the act. She could hear the loud thuds of her heartbeats, thumping a mile per minute. What would Mr. Dioko think of her? She felt silly for asking herself this question, she knew the answer very well. His coming daughter-in-law just couldn''t be trusted!


    Bracing herself for the scolding she was anticipating, she froze when she heard him chuckled, instead.


    "Darling, from now on, please call me, ''dad''." Allie got lost for words for a while, too lost in her conflicting emotion. Aside from wondering why she wasn''t scolded, it was too awkward to call him ''dad''. She was not worthy after all.


    "I''m sorry...dad," she fidgetted as she glanced at Ajie, his face wincing at the discomfort of addressing Mr. Dioko as her official father-in-law. Mr. Dioko seemed to understand her unspoken words when he surprised her by his reply.


    "As for that, listen to your heart, dear. I understand."


    She just couldn''t believe her ears! Was this attitude a part of the great change in his heart ever since she was imprisoned or was this just a trick? Yet, deep within her, she knew that Mr. Dioko''s kindness was pure and innate.


    "I''m ashamed..."


    The voice of Mr.Dioko then cut her mid-sentence. "Don''t be, darling. Even Hayri understands."


    -----


    Few hours later, Ajie came back to pick her up and brought her home. She no longer asserted, her effort would only be futile. To her further dismay, they found Mr. Dioko in the living room, talking to her parents. After greeting all of them with a hug, Mr. Dioko drew her attention.


    "Dear, I suggest you move over to a bigger house. The baby is on the way and soon you need a bigger space."


    Allie nodded. In her haste to purchase a house for her family, she only bought a small, ready-for-occupancy townhouse.


    "You may choose the one Hayri built for you or you may build a new house in a property I will be handing over to you. I''m already old so I have to start dividing my properties to both of you."


    "Both of us?"


    "Yes, both of you."


    "Am I hearing it right? Shouldn''t you let me sign a prenuptial agreement instead that I would not be entitled to your properties?"


    Mr. Dioko chuckled out loud as he looked at her puzzled expression, moving his gaze from her to her parents.


    "I guess there would be no more wedding between you and Hayri. But it would not affect my plan to divide my properties to both of you." He winked at Ajie and a broad grin spread into his face.


    Allie stared at him and wondered if he was in his right mind. He did not look drunk either.


    "Dad, I don''t understand..."


    "When the right time comes, you will. And about the marriage, it is because Hayri believes that you should rebuild your home, now that the second child is on the way."


    A mist gathered in the corner of her eyes. Their kindness was already too much and unrealistic. Though in her heart it would always be Ajie, she just couldn''t back out on her words. Ajie should suffer the consequence of his decision, though she was the one who was most affected, especially her children.


    She ran upstairs when hot tears escaped from her eyes. Once her door was locked, she turned on her laptop and initiated a video call with Hayri. What must have been a kind of luck on her side, Hayri picked it up. He had been avoiding his calls for so long already. She was already brushing her tears away when Hayri''s face appeared on the screen. Her heart was wrapped with pity towards him. He didn''t deserve to be hurt this way.


    "Hayri, is it true that you are canceling our marriage?"


    A smile broke out in his face but his eyes spoke of the pain he felt inside.  "I''m sorry dear. I told you about it already. I can''t hurt the children who need their daddy. Just as I can''t live without dad in my life."


    This hurt Allie further. Her tears raced into her face like a deluge and she could no longer tell if it was a sense of relief that she''s now free or it was just her sense of guilt and pity towards him.


    "You still both love each other and Jane is out of the way."


    "The irony is that I didn''t know about it. You could not imagine how I feel when the whole family barge in to visit the baby..." Somehow, she got amused as the scene revisited her thoughts and she found herself smiling in between her sniffs.


    Hayri laughed as well. Watching him that way, her heart lightened up and she felt like a thorn was plucked out from inside.


    "Hayri, thank you for your thoughtfulness. How do I deserve your kindness?"


    "You deserve more than what you have received."


    "I''m worried about you," her voice began to crack.


    "Zheena, you taught me how to live and forgive..."


    ___


    Mr. Dioko was about to leave when she came back to the living room. He handed her an envelope which looked like a certificate of the property he was talking about a while ago.


    "I suggest that you design your own house. I won''t take no for an answer. It''s an insult, " he said, a smile was on his face as he walked towards her, stretching out his arms to hug her.


    She threw herself at him, allowing her to express her sense of gratitude. She couldn''t explain why but a sense of warmth and security engulfed her whole being.


    She and Ajie walked him to his car where his bodyguards were waiting. A sense of worry crept up in her heart. Would he always stay like this? Surrounded by troops of armed men? When would he be completely free?


    "Adrian, take care of your family. Don''t let them go away from you ever again," he admonished him as his hand gripped on the car door''s handle.


    Ajie glanced up to Allie with a pleading look before he replied. "I promise, sir."


    "Call me, ''dad'' from now on."


    Ajie gathered his brows as he gazed at him with a questioning look. Mr.Dioko must have understood because he replied, "You will soon get your answer."


    Allie and Ajie stole bothered glances at each other but said nothing as they waved goodbye to Mr.Dioko.

 Chapter 139 - I Gained A Sister

    Allie woke up to the weight on her waist. She thought Chloe had hung up her leg again across her body, an unconscious act a child always did. To her surprise, Chloe was hugging her bear far from her and the weight came from her other side. She turned in the opposite direction and saw Ajie fast asleep, his right arm hugging around her. This man is really stubborn, she thought, as a smile spread across her face. She never allowed him to sleep with them last night, only to find him sneaking around.


    Ajie woke up to her movements and smiled sheepishly. He was now being caught but he never felt guilty at all. How could he sleep alone when his little family was here?


    Allie started to confront him but he ended up drowning her complaints with his kisses.


    "Let''s get married again, please, " he begged, afraid that something might come up again.


    She smirked as she looked at him. "You''re in a hurry? Is changing a spouse an easy game?"


    Ajie knew she was right. Announcement had been made and the turn of events was not that easy to cope up with. "Then I''ll be your suitor again."


    "Let''s see how good you are," she laughed.


    "What God has put together, let no man put asunder, " he added but regretted it as quicky it came into his mind. He felt silly and was almost tempted to giggle and shrink at his own mistake.


    "Who''s talking here?" she confronted, challenging him with her raised eyebrow.


    Ajie smiled with a pang of guilt in his heart. He hugged her tighter like it was his first and probably his last. "Can we just forget about it, please?''


    "Then let''s avoid bringing up the mistakes of the past, " she added, easing up his discomfort.


    Ajie felt his chest tightened and a sudden urge to cry gripped him up. Who would expect that he would be holding again the only woman he loved this soon?


    "Allie..., " he paused as he pressed his lips on her forehead for a long while, "I''m really sorry."


    Allie was moved by this heartfelt sincerity. He had his own reasons and she understood. He shouldn''t be the only one to take the blame. She herself caused that foolish decision of solving her problems alone. She should have shared her worries with him in the first place and allowed him to help in coming up with the best solution. In marriage, every plan and decision should be discussed by the couple together. No secret should ever be kept between them. This failure almost destroyed them totally. They were just being fortunate that there were unexpected circumstances that brought them back together.


    Somehow, this decision had brought about a positive result on the other hand. It changed the direction of Hayri''s life and resulted in great success for both of them. Allie realized that in life, God allows His children to endure the consequences of wrong decisions to make them grow and learn. Yet, in every trial His people are called to endure, He does not put them in a situation beyond what they are able to bear.


    "I''m also sorry, Jie. You''re right, I have stained our marriage. I shouldn''t be kissing another man. If only I was strong enough to reveal myself earlier..." Her statement was interrupted by his hand which covered her mouth.


    "Enough with that, let all that be in the forgotten chapters of the past."


    Allie did really dropped the topic. She buried her face in his chest and Ajie pulled her closer, wishing that the storm of their lives would finally be over. If ever there would be another trial to surpass, he would make it sure they would be facing it together.


    ---------


    It was four in the afternoon and the two ladies walked into a coffee shop. Jane picked up a table on a corner beside a glass wall where they could see Ajie and Chloe on the children''s playground. Allie sat across her, bringing with her the menu list she picked up from the counter. She ordered non-coffee beverages for her and Chloe and two cups of frappucino for Jane and Ajie. They were taking Chloe for her day out and Jane invited her to see an interior designer for the baby''s room. They would be meeting her in few minutes.


    "Jane, if you don''t mind, may I ask something personal?"


    Jane looked up and after a moment of hesitation, she nodded and smiled. "Go ahead but I''m nervous."


    Taking her smile as a sign to go ahead, she continued. "You know, I am worried about you. I''m also a woman who understands your feelings. How were you able to accept the situation between you and Ajie?"


    Jane''s pupils reacted instantly to her unexpected question. It threw a shocked glint for a moment,  being taken aback by her boldness. Somehow, she managed to reply in a nonchalant way.


    "Even from the very start and until those moments where daddy insisted that we should get engaged, our relationship was just within a plain friendship. We enjoyed each other''s company and nothing more than that. It went on like that until we start to set our minds into a new level of a relationship," Jane started to explain and then paused to give out an amused laughter.


    "I know from the start that it is always you and that he treats me as just a sister or a friend. The change only took place after he returned from Turkey where everything looked real. Even then, our relationship was just a plain friendship and nothing special..."


    Allie couldn''t help but feel a sense of pity towards her. If only beauty and brain could guarantee a perfect and happy life, she would surely take it all.


    "I''m sorry, Jane, " was all Allie could say, her tone spoke heavily of pity and guilt.


    Jane laughed again though her eyes clouded up. "I would be lying if I say I was not affected but the truth was there from the very start. I don''t lose anything, after all. I gain a lost family, instead. It really feels wonderful  to have a mother again waiting for me  in our home."


    Allie felt those unspoken pain inside her. She couldn''t help but admire her wonderful spirit despite the fact that she grew up in a broken family. She held a sad gaze towards her and Jane laughed in response, stretching out her arms to enclose both of them in a warm embrace.


    "Before I forget, I also want to tell you that I am happy that I gain a sister," Jane added as she rubbed Allie''s back, sending drops of tears gliding towards her neck.

 Chapter 140 - Allyza

    Inside an executive shuttle van, Mr. Dioko, the whole Lopez family as well as Allie''s, set out to Singapore''s port of call to join Allyza''s next cruise to Asian destinations. They had so many reasons to celebrate, they were even supposed to be on board during her maiden voyage. Yet, so many things happened and Allyza left on her first cruise without her builder and designer.


    While on their way, Chloe''s sweet and childish voice interrupted their conversation. "Grandpa, where are we going?"


    "To the seaport," the three grandfathers chorused as if they were expecting their grandchild''s question.


    Realizing that she was only asking Mr. Lopez who was closer to her, they all burst out laughing. It was not her fault after all if there were three of them, she only wanted one answer.


    "Are we going to ride a plane again?"


    "Baby, we will be on a cruise," answered Mr. Lopez.


    "Wrong answer," she complained, sending out a round of laughter from all of them.


    "Angelo, where is your brain? You build great yachts and you don''t know the correct answer?" Another bout of laughter broke into the freezing atmosphere


    "Baby, we are not. We will be riding on a ship," corrected Mr. Lopez. The grandmothers never said a word, afraid to be reprimanded for a  wrong answer.


    "But I don''t want to get on board a ship. I want a horse!"


    Leo, who was most familiar with horses answered. "But there are no horses on the sea, baby. Lolo has plenty of them in Molave."


    "Really? How about seahorses?"


    The whole van rocked with their laughter which send Chloe to tears, including Mrs. Lopez. While she got amused by her innocence,  she also pitied her for being made a laughing stock at the moment. She never realized how wonderful it was to have grandchildren who were said to be dearer to the grannie''s hearts than pure children.


    Allie hugged Chloe tight as she comforted her. She, herself, was new to the changing tempers of the kids. She was close to tears when Chloe did not stop crying even with the sincere apologies of the elderlies.


    "Sweetheart, how about discussing something else like heavenly bodies?" Ajie tried a trick to pacify her daughter''s shame. He knew her very well and he knew what topics would perk her interests.


    Chloe''s face lit up with renewed excitement. Ever since Jane handled her personally, there was a great leap in her learning ability as well as her memory retention. She started to love books and watch educational videos. She even surprised them with the depth of her knowledge, beyond what a normal kid her age had. Jane understood her needs and she knew where to prioritize her teaching focus.


    "Grandpa, which planet has more moons in it?" Chloe''s round eyes beamed as she shifted her gaze to the three grandpas who happened to sit on the same row.


    "Gerald, it''s your turn to answer," said Mr. Angelo Lopez as he nudged Mr. Dioko on his side.


    "No, I don''t know about that," he replied, shaking his head as he laughed again.


    "You build an empire in the business industry and then you don''t know which one?" The rest burst again in laughter as Mr. Angelo found a way to retaliate.


    "How about you? Two geniuses came out from your testicles and you don''t know also?" Mr. Dioko returned the question, sending another ripple of restrained laughter.


    "I was sick at that time so I was absent. So don''t ask me," Angelo folded his arms and winked at Chloe. He then looked away, pretending something on the roadside caught his attention.


    Chloe''s shrill voice interrupted their argument and they all paid attention to her. "Both of you don''t know? How about you, Lolo?" she threw the question to Leo who also pretended to be not listening.


    "My dear, I was out in the farm hunting for spiders at that time when we had our discussions so I don''t know also."


    They all broke into laughter once again and Issa complained already, afraid that she wouldn''t be able to control her bladder any longer. Just as Chloe was about to throw another question, the driver announced that they had arrived.


    Allie paused to take a closer look at the ship the moment they got out of the car. She already saw this during the ceremonial launching but her mind was in turmoil at that time. She could only see the stern of the ship but her broad name on italics still looked inviting in her eyes. She felt sorry for Ajie and herself for not being able to appreciate the wonderful works of his hand, a token of the realization of the dream vessel they drafted together. Only then was she able to see the golden value of his creation.


    "Is something bothering you?" Ajie''s voice pierced into her ears as she got lost in her thoughts.


    "She is so beautiful!," she said, her voice was a bit hoarse, "congratulations, Jie."


    Ajie did not say a word right away but clawed his arm around her neck as he pulled her into a kiss.


    "As beautiful as Allyza herself."


    Flattered by his compliment which, she knew, was sincere, she hugged him back and whispered, "Our next project will be designed by both of us. She will bear the name of our son."


    Ajie did not reply but uttered a silent prayer instead that their coming baby will be a boy, a little replica of himself. He just nodded and led her afterward to the ladder case where the waiting crew formed two rows to welcome them.


    Many guests had already arrived ahead of them. Coffee shops were already brewing as loungers started to come. Recreation halls were also buzzing with mixed-up noise and almost all the restaurants began clattering their dishes.


    At one of the lobbies, a pianist was playing some ballads and people, especially young lovers, gathered around. Most of them ordered coffee and other beverages while hanging out, allowing themselves to relax and be inspired by the music.


    Both Ajie and Allie were also compelled to join the gathering, the music was too alluring. It''s been a long while since Ajie had last held a microphone and sang. But the moment they came closer and saw who was flying his fingers across the keyboard, they both gaped in surprise.

 Chapter 141 - Somewhere Down The Road

    Their eyes locked for a moment but Andrew did not show any sign of being surprised. Allie began to think that perhaps, he worked his way to be here. She knew it was wrong to think something bad about a person but thinking back about how he succeeded in manipulating her decisions, a sense of distrust quickly crept up within her. How could she ever trust him again?


    Before any one of them could react, Andrew held out his microphone to his mouth and made an announcement.


    "Our beloved guests  and friends who are here today, our dear family members, ladies and gentlemen, good day!"


    Everyone around held their gazes towards him as he went on. "I would like to ask a favor to everyone of you to please join me in asking Mr. Adrian James, our honored builder and designer of Allyza, to render us a wonderful song."


    Allie and Adrian froze but before the latter was able to respond, a wave of gasps and cheers roared on, making Adrian walk towards the elevated platform which  served as a stage to pick up a microphone. Turning the button on, he ran his eyes from left to right, before returning his attention to Andrew who then quickly made his way behind the grand piano.


    "For old time''s sake,  Mr.Andrew," he paused as he acknowledged him also, "and for my wife, Allyza, who is my inspiration behind this work of art."


    Allie gave him back a smile as his sweet words made its way into her heart, that she initiated the first claps the moment his deep and beautiful voice broke into the atmosphere. The audience followed through and soon a thunderous round of applause rocked the whole lobby, creating a sense of thrill and excitement in everyone''s hearts.


    The song he chose was made popular by Barry Mannilow titled, "Somewhere Down The Road". Even before he sang the first line, she knew that the message of the song was aimed to stir an emotion deep within her. It served as a heartfelt reminder that despite everything they went through, she belonged to no one but him alone.


    "We had the right love at the wrong time


    Guess I always knew inside


    I wouldn''t have you for a long time


    Those dreams of yours are shining on distant shores


    And if they''re calling you away


    I have no right to make you stay."


    Allie finds it hard to remain smiling as she tried to manage a pursed smile. Ajie never left her eyes and the message was clear. He wanted her back and regretted those moments he allowed her to slip away.


    "But somewhere down the road


    Our roads are gonna cross again


    It doesn''t really matter when


    But somewhere down the road


    I know that heart of yours will come to see


    That you belong to me."


    A round of applause erupted again as the crowd felt thrilled as they followed Adrian''s eyes. The emotion was so tangible and the love he wanted to reach out to her was all too real. The inauguration was broadcasted worldwide and the rumor of his lovelife had leaked out, making almost everyone around know about his story.


    "Sometimes goodbyes are not forever,


    It doesn''t matter if you''re gone


    I still believe in us together


    I understand more than you think I can


    You have to go out on your own


    So you can find your way back home."


    "Letting go is just another way to say


    I''ll always love you so


    We had the right love at the wrong time


    Maybe we''ve only just begun


    Maybe the best is yet to come


    ''Cause somewhere down the road


    Our roads are gonna cross again


    It doesn''t really matter when


    But somewhere down the road


    I know that heart of yours will come to see


    That you belong with me."


    Adrian had long put down his microphone already and the music had faded into the background but the crowd had not extricated themselves yet from their moments of euphoria. Only when he spoke into the microphone, thanking everyone for listening, that the crowd snapped back to the reality.They gave another boisterous round of applause while other shouted, asking for more. As the noise died down, a woman''s voice echoed  into the momentary silence of the audience.


    "Can mom have more? It''s a shame that mom did not know how well her son can sing."


    Chuckling, he went back to the stage and picked up the microphone again. Andrew was also quick to select songs for him. They were together in a music band after all for a whole long year so he knew which song fits into a certain occasion.


    As the music of the second song flowed in, Mrs. Lopez began to sniff. No one could ever tell how happy she was for having, not just brilliant children, but gifted ones as well just like her. Only that, no one knew about it, even Jane. The life inside her had died down the moment she lost Ajie and so were her hobbies and interest.


    The next three hours, somehow, ended like a showdown of their singing talents and another moments of happiness were spelled out for the new family. Not long after that while all of them settled into cups of tea, Allie''s phone vibrated. She wondered who could it be, only to feel guilty when Cherry''s name appeared on her phone''s screen.


    For the whole time Allie arrived home, Cherry never bothered her with any company troubles. And now she was wrapped up with guilt for forgetting about her. How could she go into a cruise while leaving  her burning her midnight candles just to take over the responsibilities she left behind?


    "Allie, sorry for disturbing you but Mr.Tan could no longer wait to talk to you," narrated Allie on the other line.


    "Mr.Tan?'' Allie asked, wondering where she had meet that business man she mentioned.


    "He is Rough Seas'' big fish. When he knew that you''re going on a cruise, he decided he must join as well so that you can have more time to discuss about  partnership."


    Alllie was a bit disappointed. There should be no business matters to interfere with them while she was with her whole family but how could she dampen Cherry''s spirit?


    "Is he already here?" Allie wondered. If so, he could be one of the crowd earlier who gathered around.


    "Not yet, he will be joining on your next stop in Japan."


    Allie nodded but then something occurred in her mind. "Che, how about coming over for a short vacation?"

 Chapter 142 - The Cruise

    During Allyza''s voyage to Japan, the whole family enjoyed what it meant to be on a cruise with their loved ones. They dined together, went on  recreation together and spent their siesta hours in various spas and cafes. Allyza had all what a cruiser needed to enjoy every moment. From suite and deluxe accomodations, recreational and gymn facillities to international cuisines offered on buffets by different restaurants. One could choose what suited one''s mood, from regular to fine dining down to romantic escapades for lovers. There were live bands for the teens and young adults and there were romantic serenading also for lovers who wanted intimate moments with each other. Such was the expertise of Andrew and his band.


    One night while hanging out with Ajie for the serenade, Andrew approached them on their couch during his break. His smile was broad and contagious as if everything was well with them in the past.


    "Andrew," Ajie called out and gestured him to  come over the moment he saw him coming.


    "Adrian, Allyza...It''s really good to see you again." The sharp gaze he gave at Allie made Ajie wrap her closer to him.


    Allie smiled back and watched him settle on himself on the couch across them. "How are you, Andrew?"


    He replied with a soft chuckle and shook himself, "Enjoying the life of a musician."


    "It''s good to know that you got a contract with Gretels..." Allie wanted to point out that it was such a coincidence to have him on their cruise line.


    "I suggested it to my manager and what came next was the news that we got it. It just feel so wonderful to be here when you know who are the great men behind this breakthrough."


    Ajie nodded and smiled before turning to look at Allie. She glanced up and their eyes locked for a second.  In the next moment, Ajie pulled her head close to him and kissed her temple. Ajie sensed that she had apprehensions.


    "You both remind me of Cherry. Until now, her memories haunt me." There was bitterness in his smile and Allie began to worry that Andrew might still be holding grudges against Ajie.


    "Haven''t you moved on? It''s been six years," Allie tried to test the depth of the water.


    "It was difficult, you know, until my employer got me a psychologic counseling. There were even couple of  times where I was tempted to end my life until Joanna came into my life."


    Andrew then turned his head towards the backstage and soon, the pretty female vocalist came out and walked towards them. Allie and Ajje stood up and held out their hands to which she accepted with a smile.


    "Adrian, Lyz, this is Joanna, my girlfriend and psychologist."


    Ajie and Allie were dumbfounded for a moment, unable to piece up the fragments of the news quickly.


    "Yes, I help him live again. There is so much to life than brooding over a painful past." Joanna''s voice snatched them back to reality.


    "And you also sing?" Alllie''s eyes widened in excitement, happy for the unexpected twist of Andrews life.


    "Not for a big audience at first but I forced myself to." Needless to explain that her decision was to support Andrew in going back to the limelight.


    Ajie gathered his brows together as he looked at them. There was a sense  of tenderness as they looked at each other, enough for him to believe that they were really both in love.


    "Lyz, who would ever think that there is still somebody who is willing to love and accept me for all those sins I made?''


    Allie was startled for a while. She never thought that Andrew would disclose that shameful part of him to Joanna, but then she remembered that she was a psychologist when she first met him. Such was the irony of life. All is given the chance to change and live a better life no matter how unacceptable one may seem to be.


    "Take care of her, Andrew. She''s such a gem." Allie suddenly became teary-eyed but she was still able to manage a sweet smile for both of them.


    Andrew''s break ended and soon the two went back to the stage. Watching them together as they performed, a sense of warmth and relief crept up into her heart. She was happy for both of  them but worried for Cherry.


    Ajie sensed that she was getting emotional and the romantic music would only heighten the feeling, he got up and held her hand, leading her out towards their suite. He opened the curtain of the window and the tranquil, moonlit skies met their eyes. The waves glittered with golden and silver hues and the vast stretch of the water seemed endless.


    Allie sat down by the bed as she watched the beautiful, silent world outside and she got lost in her thoughts. Even if Hayri set her free but she couldn''t think of a gentlier way to end up their relationship without hurting him. Letting go and setting your loved ones free is not a pain-free decision. It may be the wisest step one can do to escape an already  unwanted relationship, but one could still die on the process. She didn''t want that for Hayri. He didn''t deserve it.


    She snapped back to her senses when she felt that Ajie hugged her from behind. He rested his chin on her shoulder and his warm breath was buzzing in her ears.


    "Adrian, I think I am wrong in inviting Cherry over. I''m afraid of their reactions. What if..." Allie''s next words were swallowed when Arian suddenly held up her head and closed his mouth on hers.


    Just when she thought he''d stop after making her silent, his kiss deepened as his tongue probed deeper and deeper, taunting hers to dance with his. After a while of hesitation, she got tempted to kiss him back until all her reservations fell off. The heated desire of the moment made her unaware that she had already allowed him to strip off the last, tiny piece of lingerie she had on. She realized she missed this too familiar touch as his hands and mouth made its way to its usual routes, making her yield up to him completely.

 Chapter 143 - A Small World

    Allie was awakened by the blinding sunlight blazing through the glass window in their room. The sun was already high up in the sky and she suddenly felt guilty for waking up late. They had itineraries to follow and she was afraid she was ruining it. She looked up and found Ajie still fast asleep, enclosing one of his arms around her. Feeling his even breathing on top of her head, she turned to her side and faced him, taking the full chance to take a closer look at those attractive features she missed for years. Lifting up her fingers, she began tracing the arch of his brows, the bridge of his nose and the curves of his mouth while her thoughts escaped to the beautiful moments they spent together.


    Tickled by the sensation of his touch, Ajie woke up. Seeing her gazing up at him, he felt a sense of joy, something he no longer expects he would be having soon. He pinched her chin and his thoughts recalled the sweet and intimate moment they had last night. He swore in his heart he''d never stop until he would win her fully again. He understood how she stood up on her words and for Hayri to break up the engagement, it could mean his success was no longer vague. Until Allie would be satisfied with his reason why he was breaking up, only then would she accept his decision. She had always known that Hayri would always fight for his right and for him to say that it was because of his guilt in depriving the kids with their father, she wouldn''t accept. It was too shallow. He could still marry her without depriving his right to his children. There must be a reason and all she needed was to personally talk to him. He couldn''t do anything else but to respect her in this decision.


    "Allie, I''m really sorry,'''' he said, while a sense of remorse spread into his face.


    "For what?" she wondered, it was just a few hours ago when they made love and she couldn''t think of a reason why he was suddenly sorry.


    "For losing you... for everything."


    Allie smiled back and didn''t answer, she burrowed her face into his chest instead and enjoyed the feeling of security. He took her clinging to him as a way of saying he was forgiven and an inexplicable sense of joy spread into his heart. He pulled her closer and claimed herself once more before they were disturbed by the call from Mrs. Lopez that they must get ready for breakfast. They had arrived already at one of their destinations in Japan and soon they would be leaving the ship for an excursion.


    Ho Chi Min City was their first stop. Commonly known as Saigon, it is a city in Southern Vietnam known for its role in the Vietnam war. Notre-Dame Cathedral, one of the famous French colonial landmarks, was one of the attractions of the city aside from the food stalls lining up the noisy streets that rarely sleep, especially around Ben Thanh Market.


    After a short visit to the cathedral, they proceeded to the famous Chu Chi tunnels where they were taken by a tour guide explaining to them the traps the Vietnamese used in killing US soldiers. The exhausting tour on this immense networks of underground tunnels made the elderlies cut the course of their plan. They decided to find a good restaurant offering the country''s specialty and spent the rest of their time there before proceeding to their next destination.


    While everyone was enjoying their food, an elegant lady dressed in a Vietnamese costume who looked like in her late thirties, approached them with a wide and beautiful smile. "Xin Chao."


    They also responded almost simultaneously. "Hello!"


    "How''s the food?" she asked, her eyes scanning on their choice of food.


    There were servings of Banh mi, a bagel stuffed with multi-layers of different luncheon meats, pate, mayonnaise, pickles, cilantro, and cucumbers. She also noticed Pho, a combination of soft rice noodles in a soup broth, usually prepared with either chicken or beef. Bun Rieu, a crab-based broth with tomato, topped with noodles, golden tofu, and chunks of meat was also present along with Op La, another of the country''s specialty.


    The lady looked up and as her eyes fell on Ajie, she froze and her smile was suspended. Somehow, in a blink of an eye, she somewhat recovered from her shock and she resumed smiling. Everyone noticed this and all their eyes fell on her. Ajie then stood up and walked towards her, extending his hand for a greeting.


    "Hello, Miss Perez. It is such a small world."


    Miss Perez stayed her eyes on him for a while, perhaps thinking for better words to say. "Adrian, it''s you."


    "How are you? You''re still as beautiful as you were six years ago," he said, trying to break the tension which started to build up between them.


    "Thank you. I guess you''re already married by now," she replied, scanning her eyes on the rest of them on the table. There was only Allie there whom she could easily guess as his wife. She smiled when their eyes locked.


    "Meet Allie, the one whom I told you before. Our daughter is also here and the second one on the way. The rest are our parents." His smile was the widest when he mentioned the second child.


    "Hello, Miss Allie. I now understand why my daughter Cherry didn''t get a chance on him before."


    She laughed as Allie also stood up to shake a hand with her before she returned her flatteries. "I now also understand why Cherry is so beautiful. She gets it''s all from you."


    Mrs.Perez''s eyes widened in surprise while Allie also regretted her tactlessness. "You saw her before?"


    Allie hesitated in her answers. While thinking for a safe reply, Ajie did it for her. "They were friends on FB."


    Miss Perez no longer replied and it was clear that she avoided the topic. She waved a hand and smiled at all of them before saying, "Please enjoy your food."


    £¬

 Chapter 144 - Once and For All

    After a while of chatting after their lunch, the whole place became crowded.


    "I want to try their coffee here, " said Mrs. Lopez, who craved for something different after a sumptous meal.


    "Do you know that in the 19th century, Vietnam has become the second-largest coffee supplier in the world?" replied Mr. Lopez, his eyes beaming with pride.


    "I''ve heard their highlands are turned to coffee farms, " added Mr. Dioko, whose eyes were on the muted TV screen featuring the coffee culture of the country.


    A pretty waitress approached their table when she overheard them talking about coffee. With a wide smile, she said, "On the opposite wing facing the garden, we have a coffee shop there."


    Before one of them could reply, she added, "Let me lead the way, ma''am and sir."


    The group stood up and followed her. In the next few minutes, they were already picking up their choice of ice milk coffee for the women, brewed tea for the men, milk tea for Adrian and Allie and a glass of juice for Chloe.


    While hooked up in their different topics, Mr. Dioko received a call and he walked up to a corner far from them to answer it. When he was back a few minutes after, he looked at Mary and Sam with gloom in his eyes.


    "It''s time. We must end their misery once and for all."


    Mary and Sam looked at each other and nodded.


    "She''ll understand." He patted Sam''s shoulders with an encouraging look.


    Sam was the reason why they kept the secret. He was afraid Allie would not understand. He was scared she would lose her respect for her mom. And the list went on with his apprehensions.


    "Alright, for her own peace of mind."


    "I''m glad you realized, " Mary said, referring to the emotional struggles Allie and Ajie must have borne.


    "They need time to fully understand one''s worth. Only when we lose something important, would we know it''s value." Needless to ask, Sam was not happy in Ajie''s hasty decision in destroying their marriage. He wanted him to learn that marriage should be a lifetime decision.


    Mr.& Mrs. Lopez stared at them, wondering what they were talking about. It seemed something was bothering them and it felt strange. Gerald Dioko was only linked to them through Hayri and the span of time they knew each other was not enough to make them look like they already knew each other a long time.


    "Dioko boy, is there a problem?" Mr. Lopez was no longer able to hold back his curiosity.


    "Not really. It is just that a bomb would be dropped today," Mr. Dioko chuckled out, heightening everyone''s curiousity.


    "This is a war-torn country and the people might be scared in hearing about a bomb," Ajie commented and Mr. Dioko laughed his heart out at his off-topic comment.


    Ajie shook his head as he was both amused and confused about why he was laughing.


    "Adrian, sorry. You''ll soon know what I mean," Mr. Dioko waved a hand to express his apology.


    "Can''t wait," was Ajie''s only reply. He stood up and brought Allie out to a small terrace looking out on a garden.


    There were rows of peach blossoms, apricot flowers as wells as plum and ebony  in a well-crafted landscape,  giving the garden a romantic ambiance.


    "So beautiful, " Allie exclaimed as she ran her eyes through the landscapes.


    "I could make one for you."


    "We don''t have these flowers at home," Allie objected.


    "We can make inquiries on how to make them grow. Remember, Nanay has  green thumbs."


    She nodded while feasting once more over the myriad of lovely and colorful blooms. "Really beautiful."


    "As beautiful as you, " a voice from behind cut through their exchanges of ideas.


    Before Allie could turn towards the one speaking, two arms wrapped her from behind in a tight embrace.


    "Hayri!" she exclaimed, his voice and his hug was so familiar to her.


    "Yes, dear, " he answered as he untangled her from his arms.


    "Why are you here?" her eyes narrowed in surprise, never expecting she''d see him at that moment.


    "Can''t I miss you? Or is the boat so small for me and Adrian?" he laughed, but a shiver ran through her spine.


    Humiliated and gripped with jealousy again as he saw how intimate they became and how Hayri made an effort to surprise her here, Ajie turned to walk away. The sight was too much for him to bear. He knew he had nothing against him now except for the child in Allie''s womb. His hope started to crumble as his heart was searing in pain. He was losing her again.


    "Adrian, where are you going?" Hayri called out, glints of amusement spread in his eyes.


    Ajie turned and glanced up at him and then to Allie, whose face was also turning pale at the tension building up around them.


    "I''m going to the bathroom, " he lied, "please excuse me."


    "Stop!" Hayri''s authoritative voice made him pause but it did not stop his face from turning red as drops of tears gathered in the corner of his eyes.


    Allie was already shaking in discomfort and grasping her reaction, Hayri got afraid. The rising tension within them might affect the baby.


    "I need to talk to you both, once and for all. Shall we go back to the table with the rest for a discussion?"


    To Allie''s surprise, Hayri''s eyes were begging. She knew Hayri was not someone to be trampled upon and that he was a man of persistence who would always fight for his right. She could now hear the loud thumping of her heartbeats, banging loudly against her chest. Her sympathy went out to Ajie and she could feel his gnawing pain. She couldn''t understand, she had already set her mind to keep her commitment to Hayri but why was she hurting so much already?


    Looking at Ajie now, she was almost tempted to run and comfort him. Tell him that it was still him whom her heart desired. But sad to say, she was already bound by her commitment to Hayri. Looking at him in obvious pain now, her thoughts went back to how s a  yielded up to him a few hours ago. To how she returned his kisses, how she responded with equal hunger and passion to his touch and how she held herself from self-restraints. Perhaps, that was her last gift for him, the giving of her heart and soul. That should be a memory enough for them to live by and reminisce before she would forever walk in the aisle with Hayri.


    Think about it all, a sudden pang of pain, hatred, and anger burst out from her. It was all his fault that both of them had to suffer!


    She was already in the brink of tears when Hayri placed his arm and led her back to where their family was waiting, with Ajie following behind.


    add author''s thought

 Chapter 145 - No Choice

    Hayri pulled back a chair for Allie to sit in and once she was settled comfortably, he pulled another for his own, sitting beside her. Ajie, on the other hand, picked up the seat a little farther from them, somewhere they wouldn''t have to see him squarely. Seeing them together was like torturing him on broad daylight and he might not be able to hold himself. All he was keeping now was his respect for Allie and the fact that all this was his fault.


    The rest of them were also agitated, they could feel what each one must be feeling at that moment. Seeing his son hurting like that, Mrs. Lopez felt like it was her own retribution for losing him when he was young. But there was no one to blame, everything happened for a reason. Every one of them was teased by fate and they were forced to play along.


    "Hayri, why didn''t you tell me ahead you are coming?" asked Allie. She could have prepared herself for this situation and they wouldn''t have been affected like this.


    "You invited Cherry and not me?"


    "It''s not in the plan. Cherry suddenly called to inform me about the coming of this certain Mr. Tan and so that''s how I got the idea of inviting her in for a vacation. Cherry deserves this."


    "And not me?" teased Hayri. He understood the fullest sense of her unspoken reason behind.


    "No..." she protested, "It''s not what you think."


    Before she could finish up her statement, Hayri chuckled softly while looking down at her with immense tenderness.


    "I''m sorry, Zheen, for keeping you in anxiety for so many days. I truly appreciate the way you stand for your words, even if it means sacrificing your own happiness. I want to put an end to this. That''s why I am here."


    Allie''s heart stopped for a moment and she felt the whole world also stopped rotating from its access. Did he meant he wanted to end his hiding from her? Ever since he came back to Tuzla to manage Rina DK Builders himself, she felt he was avoiding her. The only reason she could think of was because of her pregnancy and that he found it hard to accept it. And who would not?


    "What do you mean?" she asked but her mind protested.


    All the rest turned to him, including Jane who tried to keep her silence all throughout. A set of ear pieces never left her ears and she managed to make a world of her own. Hayri returned her gaze and before he answered, he glanced up at Ajie who was also keeping his mouth shut.


    "Adrian, what is your plan for both of you?"


    Ajie grimaced in confusion, wondering what he meant. He was dumbfounded for a moment and didn''t know how to answer him without starting a commotion. His parents were there to enjoy and he didn''t want to trigger in them a heart attack.


    "What do you mean?" he recited the same question Allie made, his look was more puzzled.


    "For Allie and your child," he answered. His calmness surprised them all.


    Ajie sneered at his question, he just couldn''t understand what was going on in this man''s head. "You''re asking me?" Fine tremors ran through all his system as his restrained anger threatened to get the best of him.


    "Of course, in the presence of everyone, I challenge you to declare your plans!"


    While everyone else was getting tensed and afraid that a fight would break in,  Mr. Dioko and Allie''s parents were as calm as the still hours after the storm. Allie stood up, attempting to stop the impending trouble.  Hayri wrapped an arm around her waist and gently pulled her down, adding a blow to an already blazing fire inside Ajie''s heart.


    "I''m going to have her and my children back! I will forever be your shadow and forever be your ghost unless you''re giving them back to me. And I want to let you know, the battle has not yet begun."


    Hayri laughed out with sarcasm in his tone. "There''s no way you can win over me, if not for this damn fact that she''s...she''s..."


    Hayri couldn''t bring out the words. He looked at his dad for help, his tears started to trickle down his face. Everyone was shocked. What was really happening?


    Mr. Dioko stood up and walked up to him, hugging him from the back. "Dad is proud of you, son."


    "Dad, it''s difficult..."


    "I know," answered Mr. Dioko with a sealed smile. Looking up and running his eyes at everyone around, he continued. "Hayri is my only son and he grows up having everything all he wants. I am used to the fact that he always fights to the end, and that he never loses a battle whenever he starts on one. I just didn''t expect he would have this change of heart."


    They all expected that Mr. Dioko was able to convince his son to give way for Ajie and Allie, just because it was obvious that both were still in love with each other and that another baby was on the way.


    "Louise boy, uncle is also proud of you. It''s not an easy decision," he said in a very low and serious tone, looking at Hayri who covered his face with the spread handkerchief in his hand.


    Mrs. Lopez also dared to speak out after giving Hayri a long stare, gauging at the seriousness of his decision. "Does it mean, son, your giving way?"


    "Mom, he''s not giving way. He just can''t accept what I did. Of course, I understand him for that."


    Mrs. Lopez shook her head. "Your lives are very complicated but how can I blame you? What you went through wasn''t easy, either."


    Allie held her gaze at Hayri. She held him in the arm and said, "Hayri, if you''re indeed giving way, thank you so much."


    "Is that what you want?" His tone was like a dagger piercing into the deepest chamber of her heart. She was guilty and her mind was screaming out the fact that Hayri never deserved this.


    "I''m sorry, Hayri, but yes. If you still remember, I kept telling you before that you shouldn''t..." She couldn''t dare to say it in front of them, it was just too awkward.


    Hayri straightened up and ignored her. He looked at Mrs. Lopez, instead. "Auntie, I have no choice..." he paused and looked at Allie, removing his hands on his face.


    He then clawed an arm around her neck and pulled her close. "I have no choice because this beautiful  creature here is my...lovely sister!"

 Chapter 146 - You Set Me Free

    They all sat motionless gaping at him, their faces were a mass of shock. They waited for Hayri to take back his words but seconds passed and the seriousness of his expression did not change. Allie, on the other hand, froze while staring at him, her head tilted towards him.


    "Since we are a family here, please allow me to speak," said Mr. Dioko, his eyes shifted from Hayri to Allie''s parents, asking for their non-verbal permission.


    Their gazes sharpened at his statement, believing at that moment that there was truth in Hayri''s claims, even before he finished his story. An inexplicable feeling spread all over Allie and she felt her blood circulation went in the wrong direction. Her blood seemed to drain out from her face and she became as white as an empty sheet. Hayri noticed her reaction and as a natural reflex, he pulled her even closer towards him, securing her from possible fainting.


    "I was rising up in my business career at that time when Sarah''s insecurities gripped her badly. We were already in our five years of marriage and still, she was not able to give me a child. Our fightings got worse each day, every female business partner became her worst nightmare."


    Mr. Dioko took a deep breath before he went ahead,  taking courage from within to be able to continue.


    "One time, we decided to take a break and spend a short vacation here in the Philippines. Due to some business matters, she came here ahead and spent time with her best friend Mary. As to how she was able to convince Mary of a plan, I did not know." He paused and looked at Mary who was, all the time, staring blankly at the floor.


    Seeing that there was no resistance from her nor from Sam, he went ahead. "Perhaps, it was because of her suicidal instinct. The plan was carried out and one night, under the influence of heavy alcohol and a sleeping pill, Mary agreed to become a surrogate mother of our child."


    Everyone seemed pinned at their seats as they all gaped at what he just revealed. The issue of surrogacy seemed difficult to suggest, even to that sex without affection. Was Sarah watching while the deed was done to her unconscious best friend? Waves of shivers ran through their skin as they all thought about it. They cast stolen glances at Mary, the role she accepted was too hard to believe.


    "After a month, we called her up. When she could no longer be reached and nowhere to be found, I no longer tried to find her. I knew the reason already, she got pregnant. Well, I admired her for the decision to keep the child, even to the extent of breaking her promise to Sarah."


    The next scene was heavy with emotion. Allie fell limp in Hayri''s arms as she couldn''t take in the news. She understood what prompted her mother''s decision and she felt grateful for keeping her as her own. What was difficult to accept was the fact that she almost married her own brother. Not only that, even with the thought of him kissing her, was more than she could.


    Hayri was not able to hold back his emotions and found himself sobbing when he saw Allie''s reaction. His heart went out to her, she had already suffered much. Such was the irony of life, they were allowed to achieve and experience great things in life but no one could guess how grave was the other side of the story!


    Seeing that Allie fainted and Hayri burst out sobbing,  he strode fast towards them and took Allie gently away from him. He looked down at Hayri and for the first time, his heart came out crushing for him. He wanted to comfort him and apologized,  but all of them were so lost for words.


    Jane rushed towards the nearby couch where Ajie laid Allie down and before she could do a sternal rub, Allie opened her eyes. She looked around and saw their worried faces.


    "How are you, Lyz?  Take it one at a time,  everything has its own reason why it happens," came out Jane''s reassuring words as she held and squeezed Allie''s hand.


    Allie responded with a weak smile as her eyes scanned for Hayri. He saw his dad placing an arm on his shoulders,  silently comforting him.


    A few minutes after that, Mr. Dioko sat down beside her and without a word,  he reached out a hand to her forehead, stroking it like a father to a sick child. With a restrained emotion,  he smiled at her but Allie sat up abruptly and threw herself to his waiting arms.


    "I now understand why you want me to call you dad already," she laughed softly in between her sniffs.


    "I now also understand why my heart is always open wide for you," he chuckled as his thoughts flew back to the days he offered her the scholarship to the time he ordered to sponsor her studies in Turkey.


    "I''m really sorry!" Mr. Dioko need not ask what Allie was being sorry about. He knew very well it was about her betrayal in exposing the dirty secrets of the drug cartel.


    "It hurts but it turns out that you did me a great favor. You set me free."


    ____


    "Can you forgive mama?" Mary''s rough voice pierced into Allie''s ears as she closed her eyes the moment Mr. Dioko excused himself.


    She tried to have a mental rest while Ajie was brushing her hair with his fingers as she laid down on his lap. His mouth was shut and his gazes far,  so lost in deep thoughts as well. The course of their lives was just too overwhelming.


    Her heart was heavy and sore, perhaps due to excessive crying. The storms in their lives finally passed away and she hoped to face a new beginning with the man he was truly happy.


    Looking up, she saw her mom sitting beside her and her eye bags were as red as ripe tomatoes in their garden. She sat up abruptly and without a single word, she rested her head on her chest, throwing her arms around her feeling secured by the warmth of her presence.


    "Thank you, ma." Her thoughts were on how difficult it must have been to run and hide, not to mention the guilt in not keeping an agreement.


    "Thank your papa," she paused as she looked towards his direction, "he accepted us without any condition."


    £¬

 Chapter 147 - Too Much Honesty

    Sam''s worst agony had finally come. He dreaded the day that Allie would know that he was not her biological father. He was afraid of too many things, including the possibility that she would blame him for not telling her the truth. They lived a life of hardship and poverty and she could have been spared if her real father was given the right to know her. She could have lived in luxury rather than fighting against the difficulties and struggles of their daily living. Such insecurities pressed him down, what he could only offer was the income of a mere factory laborer. The only wealth he could give was accepting her as his own daughter.


    He sat quietly beside Mary who was in tears with Allie and he was glad that she accepted the truth with an open mind. However, he was the pillar of their home and such a decision to tell her the truth when she was younger relied on him. This thought made his guilt spiked higher as he watched them.


    "Pa, thank you so much. You''re one in a million!" Allie''s voice snapped Sam up from his depressing thoughts.


    He stared at her for a long while, wondering if there was any displeasure concealed behind those warmth and acceptance she showed right now.


    "Pa?" came Allie''s voice again. She was a bit surprised at his behavior and wondered what was in his mind.


    "Allie, are you really not mad at us? You could have lived a better life had we not deprived you of your right," explained Sam, the gloom in his eyes slowly fading away.


    "Pa, what are you talking about?"


    Allie understood his unspoken insecurities and her heart was rent in pieces. Of course, the gap was great and she could not deny that but he provided her with the essentials of becoming a happy and emotionally-secured child. Her courage, determination and her principle of fighting what was right and best for all, came from him. And that was more important than the wealth he was so insecure about. She sobbed at this realization as she hugged the fragile built of the man who made sacrifices to make them and her mother live a good life. They may not have an abundant life but they were happy and secured in their simplicity.


    -------


    Their plan to explore the other tour highlights of Ho Minh Chi City such as visiting the Saigon Opera House was canceled due to their emotional encounter and they all decided to go back to the ship. When everyone was called for dinner, they gathered around and tried to dispel the awkward atmosphere with diverse topics until everybody seemed to forget what happened earlier. They were laughing over certain funny topics and got goosebumps as well as shifted to horrifying stories. At times, Chloe and her childish ideas and interruptions made her their laughing stock and the center of their attention.


    "Louise boy, aren''t you planning to move here? You''re so far away from home. You can always have someone to do the work for you." Mr. Lopez asked in a worried tone after a bout of their laughter abated.


    Without a second thought, Hayri answered the question. He looked at him straight in the eye like no one else was around


    "That was supposedly the plan when we secured the new port but I have to move it forward. That would have been the new location of Rina DK Builders," Hayri explained with a faint smile, stealing a glance at Allie.


    Mr. Lopez need not be reminded. Time and distance were the elements to solve deep and complicated matters related to the heart.


    Allie was not dumb and not insensitive either. She understood very well that Hayri needed a space to be able to move forward. And her heart went out in pity for him. Her fear that she would go into another stage of depression worried her. She looked at him with glints of sorrow in her eyes. There''s no one to comfort him there anymore, no one to guide and give advises.


    "Hayri, I''m so sorry."


    Hayri returned her gaze and he smiled back. There was a sense of bitterness in his eyes but he tried hard to conceal it by giving out a soft laugh. "Don''t worry dear, I will move here once I can look at you as my sister."


    Everyone stiffened in their seats with his straightforward answer. They all marveled at how too must honesty could be scary at times. Even Adrian was lost for words, he just held Allie''s hand tightly under the table, staring dumbly at him. Yet, on the other side, he was ashamed. Hayri was being persistent in the name of love. He didn''t care about Allie''s past, he didn''t care if she was married and he didn''t care if she got pregnant with her ex-husband while committed to him. Looking back, he filed an annulment because of anger, because he couldn''t accept that she was defiled by another man. Such love he had was so divine and he realized he was not worthy.


    "Sheena! Sir Hayri!" The voice of a beautiful woman interrupted them, all thanks to her as everyone was already fidgeting.


    Allie turned to her and sprang to her feet the moment she saw her. "Cherry, my goodness! You''re getting prettier as the days go by!"


    "And so are you!" Cherry returned the compliment, laughing while the two fell into each other''s arms. "How''s Adrian?" she added.


    "Happy to see you again, Che!" said Ajie as he also stood up to hug and greet her.


    "And so am I" she replied as soon as Adrian released her but added, "Can you tour me over to this masterpiece  of yours?"


    "I''ll do it," came the reply of Hayri from the other side of the table, "before I''ll leave later. Join us for dinner first."


    Cherry''s eyes widened as she also grimaced. "That''s, not the plan."


    Hayri looked at her with a meaningful gaze, hoping she''ll understand. "I have other needs to attend."


    Before she could reply, a male voice from another side of the dining room floated into their ears and they all turned towards him.


    A tall, handsome and lean young man at about Ajie''s age, walked towards their direction. His eyes fell on Allie and it never left her even when he said, "Miss Perez?"

 Chapter 148 - The New Business Partner

    "Mr. Tan!" Cherry acknowledged his presence with a smile and then ran her eyes over everyone on the table. "Sir, I would like you to meet Miss Sheena''s family..."


    The introduction was warm and animated as Mr.Tan himself was very good at carrying himself. His warmth and cheerfulness made him win the hearts of everyone around, not to mention his captivating physical appearance.


    Facing the elderlies, the great tycoons of marine industries, he began introducing himself. "My company owns a fleet in the Middle East, among its highlights, are the ones cruising through the Arabian Gulf. A friend in the industry recommended Rough Seas to me for the supplies and that''s how I learned that the company needs investors for its expansion."


    Mr. Dioko and Mr.Alfonso turned their heads towards Allie who just listened to Mr.Tan quietly. Never did she brought out the topic even once. She knew very well that they could put their hands In this. They may have remembered that this was mentioned randomly but they did not give it any attention since there were too many things occupying their minds lately.


    "Darling, let''s discuss more about this sooner. Your daddies here can always help you with the expansion. Venturing out into the foreign lands is a good step," said Mr. Lopez, his eyes full of admiration as she looked at Allie. It was also an indication that he agreed on Mr.Tan''s proposal.


    "Cherry is the one doing the magic here, dad. I still want to focus on building and designing," she replied, casting a helpless glance at Hayri.


    Hayri must have understood her since he butted in.


    "Dad, this was first intended as a side business but it kicked into the market, so that is how Cherry came along. As of now, she is starting to expand into few countries in Europe while Zheena, together with Adrian, starts out in Cebu for the Philippine market."


    Ajie also joined in, forgetting about the awkwardness a few minutes ago. "Dad, I''m thinking about manufacturing our own products rather than relying on suppliers."


    "Great idea, son. We''ll start planning and work it out as soon as possible," Mr. Lopez replied as his thoughts flew immediately to business strategies.


    "Then I can help you, dear. All these times, I am focusing on charity works and foundations so it''s time to explore into the real business world," Mrs. Lopez butted in, a surge of new excitement burst out within her, welcoming herself back into her real self who was lost for a long time already. In fact, her husband had so many businesses but her depression kept her out of these.


    "I''m excited, mom!" she exclaimed, feigning an excitement that was not really there.


    Mr. Tan chuckled out, he seemed to know about their story. "So, that does mean that we are having a closed deal, Miss Sheena?''


    Allie smiled back. "For now, allow us to enjoy our family moment first. We can discuss it when we''re back."


    "That''s fine. I''m actually giving myself a break for this cruise so work can be set aside for now."


    ____


    Later at a coffee shop where Allie and Cherry agreed to hang out and chat, Mr. Tan came over. His smile was so captivating that they were not able to refuse when he asked them to join. He may look elegant and sophisticated but his cheerfulness and his alluring smiles made him less intimidating.


    "Sir, are you alone in coming over?'' Cherry dared to ask. This cruise was such a waste to spend alone.


    "Yes, I got no one to be with me. Who knows I''ll meet my Miss Right here?" he replied,  an amused look spread into his face as his eyes stayed on Allie.


    "Perhaps, you''re setting up a high standard that no woman seems good enough in your eyes," Cherry argued, it was just too unbelievable to say that no one would like to join him here.


    Mr. Tan laughed out loud, his irresistible and romantic features displayed as he tossed his head backward. He gazed at Allie and replied, "Not really. If I''d happen to fall for a woman, I would not care who she is and what her background is. She may be years older than me or she may be married."


    "If you don''t mind, may I ask if you had been in love?" Cherry asked further while Allie got more uncomfortable. His deep stares bothered her.


    "Not yet but I think I have already found her."


    Allie was about to butt in but she was interrupted by the ringing of Cherry''s phone. Cherry picked it up and her eyes lit up as the one on the other line spoke.


    "Zheen, Sir Hayri asked me to come to the music theatre together with you," said Cherry, her eyes beaming with excitement.


    "Why?" Allie frowned. It still felt uncomfortable to be with Hayri after everything happened. The truth about their siblingship was still uneasy to digest.


    "Please, Zheen. It must be about singing. I really missed it. You may ask Adrian to follow us."


    Cherry''s excitement was too high to put her down, so Allie had no choice but to agree. Mr.Tan also stood up and held out a hand to Allie to help her stand up. She was also not able to refuse at this, his action was expected from a gentleman.


    Perhaps sensing her discomfort, Mr.Tan smiled at her. "Miss Sheena, please don''t take me wrong. I hope we could be friends from now on since we are now business partners, aren''t we?"


    Allie felt embarrassed for being so transparent. She chuckled softly, avoiding his eyes and replied, "Of course."


    As soon as the three entered into the theatre, Hayri met and ushered them to a table on the corner. Mellow and romantic music filled the hall and on the stage were male and female vocalists on their love song duet. Behind them were the rest of the members of the band, holding each of their instruments. Just when they were seated, the music changes into another ballad and someone announced to bring their partners to the dance floor.


    Hayri stood up and held out a hand to Cherry and said, "May we?"


    Cherry hesitated but since Hayri didn''t pull back his hand, she felt it was an insult to refuse. Anyway, he''s already someone she knew well and in fact, someone who was closely related to her best friend.


    Little did they know that as soon as they started to move into the dance floor, someone stood gazing at them.

 Chapter 149 - A Balm to a Broken Heart

    The flowing rhythm of the sweet and romantic music ignited them both to sway their bodies according to the beat. Cherry placed her hands on the shoulders of Hayri and the latter placed his on the small of her back. Hayri gave her a weak smile despite the gloom in his eyes. It was not difficult to understand as Cherry knew everything about them. Hayri was always sincere to the point of giving his all in the name of love and moving on was expected to be a difficult task.


    "Sir, I''m so sorry," Cherry exclaimed, the sadness in his eyes was too much for her heart to bear.


    "For what?" replied Hayri, somewhat puzzled by what she meant.


    "About you and Sheena."


    Hayri chuckled with a sardonic glow in his eyes. "I lost nothing, you know that. She is my sister."


    "But it''s not easy to move on."


    The curve in Hayri''s lips did not leave and his feet moved across the dance floor but his thoughts wandered off. Cherry went along, her heart screamed in sympathy for him. In silence, she observed his every move and his strayed glances at Allie.


    "Che, how can I forget?"


    Cherry was a bit startled at his question. She stared at him for a while before she was able to think of an answer.


    "Sir, they say that love is lovelier the second time around. They also say that only a heart can heal a broken one."


    Hayri laughed, amused at the famous quotes she cited. To love again seemed so distant at the moment. Perhaps, his heartache could last a lifetime. After some time, he returned a question. "Che, were you in love before?"


    The smile on Cherry''s lips faded away. She took a deep breath, drawing courage deep inside before she gave out a faint smile.


    "I was and it was a traumatic one. The heartache was the reason why I flew to Istanbul. I quit doing those things I loved to do even to the extent of avoiding places like this. I didn''t want to see any music performances even online."


    Hayri gathered his brows. "What''s wrong with concerts?"


    A lump formed in her throat and it took her some time to reply. "I was once a female lead vocalist and he was the pianist..."


    Hayri''s eyes widened and glowed with excitement. "Really? You can sing well?"


    Cherry shook her head and laughed. "That was before."


    "Che, the best step to know if you have really moved on is to take the stage again."


    Cherry nodded her head and smiled. "Maybe next time."


    To Cherry''s confusion, Hayri no longer waited for the music to end. He led Cherry back to their table where Allie and Mr. Tan were waiting. It seemed that Mr. Tan was able to lure her out into talking that Allie no longer looked uncomfortable. She glanced up and smiled at them, trying to dispel the growing sense of awkwardness within her but Hayri avoided her gaze. To her embarrassment, Hayri excused herself and went to the direction of the ante-room where the comfort room was located.


    To her surprise, Hayri was back in less than 15 minutes and a broad smile was plastered on his face. He sat beside Cherry, ignoring Allie and Mr. Tan on the other side of the table. His eyes were focused on the stage and out of curiosity, they all followed his gaze. Soon, they saw a woman going up and picked up the microphone.


    "Ladies and gentlemen," she started to speak as she ran her gaze across the room and the crowd was hushed into silence, "tonight, we have a very special request from our honored guest. Guess what?"


    Cherry''s heart took an abrupt halt as she heard the lady of the ceremony. She could already predict the next thing she would say. What made her get more nervous and sure of what was going to happen was when the lady gave her a meaningful gaze.


    "The next song will be rendered to us by Engr. Dioko''s girlfriend, Miss Cherry Perez."


    The crowd didn''t have the difficulty recognizing whom she meant because her eyes were focused on their direction and that Cherry could be seen blushing and fidgetting. They gave a round of applause and Cherry felt like a melting candle against a strong heat. Hayri stood up and held her hand, gently pulling her up. Unable to refuse any longer, she stood up and Hayri led her to the stage. A more intense round of applause was heard. To the people''s eyes, Hayri was a very supportive boyfriend.


    The next thing Cherry knew was that she was already holding a microphone as she waited for the prelude to end. The beautiful music which flowed out from the keys of the grand piano and the familiar stroke which gave more life to the rhythm, made her remember her pre-existing love for singing. She was then carried out and her beautiful voice floated into the air.


    "Oh I could say that I''ll be all you need


    But that would be a lie


    I know I''d only hurt you


    I know I''d only make you cry


    I''m not the one you''re needing


    I love you, goodbye."


    Cherry no longer knew she was already giving her all in that song. She no longer saw the crowd and in the back of her mind, were the memories of the past she tried to leave behind. She tried imagining the future where she would start a new beginning and she didn''t know that tears of release were already streaming down her face.


    As the song ended, Hayri went up the stage again and seeing those tears which spoke of his own heartache, his heart was torn in pity that he subconsciously pulled her close and hugged her tight.


    Cherry allowed him to wrap his arm around her waist as they climbed down the stage and walked towards their table. Feeling the warmth of sympathy, she just couldn''t stop her tears. For such a long time, she tried to be strong and kept her memories behind; not knowing that it was still there waiting to be set free.


    Allie stood up and hugged her close as soon as she settled back to her seat. She understood that the cheerfulness she wore was just a facade to the fragile self she tried so hard to hide.


    Just then, the voice of the emcee disrupted their emotional moment as she thanked Cherry for her wonderful song.


    "That was a very wonderful song, Miss Cherry. I wonder how could you be so good when you were not rehearsing with the team."


    Her eyes which looked at Cherry were so full of admiration and in her overwhelming joy, she added something which later shook her world off.


    "Miss Cherry, I would also do the honor of introducing the one behind the wonderful music which went perfectly well with your beautiful voice."


    Cherry looked up and smiled back at the emcee, her eyes followed hers as she called up the one whose fingers dance wonderfully into the keys. When the familiar built of the man immersed from the backstage, Cherry covered her mouth to conceal her wide gape.


    "Andrew?"

 Chapter 150 - I Changed My Mind

    Their eyes locked for a moment and a complicated emotion wrapped her whole being. Andrew wore a smile as he stared at her but it didn''t conceal the sadness reflected in his eyes. Watching both their reactions, Hayri understood that he was the man she just told him about especially that he was introduced as the man behind the keys. To support her current emotional state, especially against the man who crashed her world apart, he placed an arm around her shoulder and drew her forward, making Andrew look away. He held her as if he was a romantic lover until Andrew made a slight bow before the crowd prior to his exit.


    "Sir, excuse me.  I want to go to my room, " Cherry said, her shallow breathing was already showing.


    "Then let''s go together,"  Hayri replied.


    Hayri stood up and threw a glance at Allie. Allie met his gaze and sadness gripped her heart. He was avoiding her and she understood that it was not because he hated her but because he was hurting. This was the last thing she ever wanted, she didn''t want to cause him pain.


    "Hayri, can I have a moment with you, first?" said Allie with begging eyes.


    Hayri made a sigh as he looked at her helpless state and after a few seconds, he nodded. Allie sprang up to her feet and led Hayri on the corner far from anybody to see.


    "Hayri, I''m very sorry. It hurts me to see you like that," she begged and tugged his forearm like a child begging for a piece of cake.


    Hayri''s expression softened as he watched the teary-eyed creature he loved so much, pleading before her. He knew she was worrying for him. He patted her head and smiled. "You have nothing to worry about. I''m really fine."


    "I know you like the palm of my hands. You better stop pretending," she hissed and it sent a peal of laughter out of him.


    Hayri took a deep sigh again as he conceded against her persistence. She was right. She knew him inside out. "Alright, I have to admit. I still can''t accept everything yet but soon I will."


    Delighted by his answer, Allie threw herself at him and Hayri hugged her close to him. He kissed her forehead and murmured, "Someday soon, everything will be alright. Just always take care of yourself. I want you to be happy."


    "And so do I. Take care of yourself also. I wish someday soon,  you''ll find the right one for you."


    They remained in each other''s arm for who knew how long until Allie remembered Cherry. She broke free from him and urged him to go back to where they left her. To their relief, they were still there on their seats with Mr. Tan taking the lead in the conversation. They noticed that he was really good at manipulating that he was able to distract Cherry away from Andrew.


    They also saw Andrew by the stage, stealing glances at them but somehow, with Mr. Tan around, he never dared to approach them.


    "Che, I may accompany you now to your room, " Hayri offered and with a glance at Mr.Tan, the latter got his message.


    "Don''t worry, sir. I''ll be sure to take Miss Zheena to her room safely."


    Understanding the silent communication between the two men, she interrupted them. "No need to bother yourself, Mr. Tan. I can go by myself."


    "Call me Ryan, Miss Zheen. No need of formalities," Mr. Tan offered, his captivating smile took ace in the situation again.


    Such charm,  Allie could not argue. "Call me by my name as well. Zheena or Allie, whatever is comfortable with you."


    "That''s better. I''m looking forward to a long term partnership so let''s better build it first on friendship."


    "Then call us by our names also," Hayri butted in before he made his exit together with Cherry.


    Allie found herself getting comfortable easily with Ryan. His easygoing attitude and his enthusiasm in carrying out a conversation made him an interesting person to be around with. It took them long to reach Allie''s room because of they made too many stops along the way due to their somewhat endless chatting.


    "Zheen, may we and Adrian discuss about some business matters tomorrow morning over coffee?" Ryan said as Allie was about to get inside their room.


    "Sure, I will tell Adrian about that."The door suddenly opened and Ajie came out of the door. "What is it all about, my love?"


    Allie was startled but was quick enough to return to her senses. "Ryan wants us to talk about..."


    Ryan cut her words when he interrupted. "I am asking Zheena if we could discuss some business ideas over coffee tomorrow, Adrian?"


    "Sure, see you then tomorrow." He clawed an arm around Allie''s neck,  pulling her to a near kiss, so Ryan was forced to walk away.


    The moment Ajie closed the door, Ajie did not delay in expressing his distrust. "My dear, I''m not comfortable with Mr. Tan. Please don''t put your trust in him too much and don''t make decisions related to him or his businesses without me.


    ------


    Meanwhile, Cherry and Hayri took a separate route leading to Allie''s suite room.


    "He has left already," Cherry whispered.


    "I see."


    "Sir, why?" Cherry gave her a confused look.


    "I just don''t trust him. I want to observe him at a distance."


    "Does it mean you''re going with us all throughout the cruise?" Cherry confirmed, her eyes unbelieving.


    "Of course, I change my mind."


    When Hayri left the moment they reached outside her door, she went to the deck to take in a strong gush of air. She wanted to be alone with nature to be able to fathom the depths of her emotion. Why was her meeting with Andrew still disturbed her? Was it because of what he did? Or was it because her anger and hatred towards her mom was reawakened? Or was it because the memories were too poignant to ever give her peace?


    Just as she drifted into the depth of her thoughts, a pair of arms hugged her from behind. She wriggled and made an abrupt turn, only to find the face of her greatest nightmare, resting his head on her shoulder.


    "Get lost!"

 Chapter 151 - While In Chinatown

    Andrew released her when she used all her force to break free from him. She was so bothered when she saw him a few minutes ago but now that he was hugging her, she felt uncomfortable. As if she has contracted a contagious disease she was too afraid to get infected with.


    "Cherry, why? If only you knew how much I lamented for your loss. I almost gave up my life," confessed Andrew tearfully but Cherry couldn''t understand why she felt a sense of contempt towards him.


    "Andrew, your regret was only in realizing that you lost both me and my mom but you no longer valued me as you did before you knew her."


    "No..."


    "Yes," Cherry didn''t allow her to finish, "but even if I am wrong, I could never accept anyone who will do such shamelessness on me!"


    "I know," he replied, his eyes remained fixed downward.


    "So, Andrew, I have to go. There''s no longer something to talk about," she sneered at him before she took a step away but Andrew held her arm and stopped her.


    "I hope you can still forgive me and wish me well," he paused as he looked up to see her reaction," I know I don''t deserve your kindness but I need a peace of mind. The guilt stayed with me and kept me from moving on."


    Cherry was almost tempted to laugh at what he said but there was a hint of sincerity in the way he looked at her. Perhaps, she thought, he still had a conscience. Perhaps, he was not as evil as she thought.


    "It''s all in the past,  Andrew. I almost can''t recall anything about it anymore," she replied in a nonchalant expression, leaving Andrew staring at her back, tongue-tied. He knew it was an exaggeration but he also understood that Cherry only wanted to show him that he held no value for her in the past. It hurt but he could not blame her.


    Meanwhile, in Allie and Ajie''s room, a loud knocking was heard. The two looked at each other, wondering who could it be. Ajie stood up and looked through the peephole and found Andrew standing with a disturbed look. He opened the door and invited him in.


    "Adrian, I would just like to ask. How long did you know that Cherry is alive? Why did you keep it from me?" said Andrew in a loud voice, making Allie worried and a bit scared.


    Ajie, who had no idea what happened in the theatre, raised his brows in confusion. He then realized that maybe, the two crossed their paths somewhere. "Why, you two have met again?"


    "Adrian, please stop making me look like a fool. You must have known the whole truth a long time ago but you just kept it from me."


    Understanding Adrian''s reaction, Allie intervened. "Hayri pulled me and Cherry to the theatre a while ago and that''s how they met again."


    Ajie held Allie''s gaze for a while before he looked back at Andrew and gave out a faint smile. "Andrew, I thought time has changed you but you proved me wrong. Why do you always think I have something to do in any of your failures?"


    Andrew perhaps realized his mistake, he softened his look and apologized. "I didn''t mean it that way. It''s just that it seemed this is not the first time you also met again."


    Ajie took a deep breath before he went ahead. "Yes, it''s not the first but my second this year. It just so happened that Allie met her while she was in another country."


    "How come she''s alive?" Andrew asked.


    "We have not discussed it yet," Ajie answered, trying hard to appear as honest as he could muster.


    "Cherry never disclosed anything about her past," said Allie, helping Ajie affirm his claim.


    Andrew no longer said anything. He strode towards the door and went out with sagging shoulders. The two looked at each other, silently communicating their thoughts about Andrew for a moment and then burst out laughing afterward.  Seized by their emotion at the moment, Ajie pulled her close and pressed his lips against hers, taunting her for a passionate kiss. Allie parted hers to welcome him and in the next moment, they found themselves in a heated encounter in their bed.


    All throughout the cruise, including the drops off to some places on their route towards Japan, there were a couple of times where Ryan Tan joined meals with the whole family and there they discussed business. Ryan was so persistent about it that it did not take them long to close the deal. Rough Seas Marine Supplies and Equipment would venture out to a new market in the Arab world, specifically the United Arab Emirates. However, instead of getting overjoyed over the leap in the business world, Allie was a bit apprehensive. These countries were known for their skyrocketing breakthrough in science and technology and therefore would not need their products and services. But Ryan was very good at winning their hearts and soon her apprehensions were all gone. He did not only develop friendship among youngsters like Ajie and Allie or Hayri and Jane but also won the approval of the whole family especially the elderlies. Even Chloe gave her trust in him.


    During their first stop in Yokohama, they went directly to its famous Chinatown were a large number of Chinese stores and restaurants could be found in the colorful streets along the five gate entrances. They visited the Kanteibyo temple which was dedicated to its Chinese god of good business and prosperity. While walking along one of the streets to find a good restaurant that offered the best of the country''s cuisine, Ryan was taking Chloey on a horsey-game, lifting her upon his shoulders.


    "Ryan, you''ll get sore later. Chloe is heavy," Jane warned him as both were laughing their hearts out. Chloe often squealed in delight every time Ryan bounced her off on his shoulders and the latter also laughed in amusement at her shrill hiss of joy.


    "It''s not true, auntie! Uncle Ryan is so big and tall," protested Chloe who might be wishing. her bliss would not be ending soon.


    "Yeah but Chloe is also a giant girl!" argued Jane, feeling sorry already for Ryan who may have been enduring his ordeal just so he wouldn''t spoil the child''s happiness.


    Chloe was about to protest when she saw a stall selling colorful toys. She slid down from his shoulder and ran toward the stall. The rest of the adults were also busy talking while waiting.


    "Baby, here are other toys you can choose from," said the man in an enthusiastic voice.


    Chloe followed and was then hooked up in choosing toys while the rest were listening to the man who was too quick to make demonstrations of one product to another. Little did they know that while their attention was grabbed by the disguise of product demonstration, someone enticed Chloe to look at the toys in another stall until she got too far away.

 Chapter 152 - While In Chinatown

    "Andrew, please."


    Andrew released her when she used all her force to break free from him. She was so bothered when she saw him a few minutes ago but now that he was hugging her, she felt uncomfortable. As if she has contracted a contagious disease she was too afraid to get infected with.


    "Cherry, why? If only you knew how much I lamented for your loss. I almost gave up my life," confessed Andrew tearfully but Cherry couldn''t understand why she felt a sense of contempt towards him.


    "Andrew, your regret was only in realizing that you lost both me and my mom but you no longer valued me as you did before you knew her."


    "No..."


    "Yes," Cherry didn''t allow her to finish, "but even if I am wrong, I could never accept anyone who will do such shamelessness on me!"


    "I know," he replied, his eyes remained fixed downward.


    "So, Andrew, I have to go. There''s no longer something to talk about," she sneered at him before she took a step away but Andrew held her arm and stopped her.


    "I hope you can still forgive me and wish me well," he paused as he looked up to see her reaction," I know I don''t deserve your kindness but I need a peace of mind. The guilt stayed with me and kept me from moving on."


    Cherry was almost tempted to laugh at what he said but there was a hint of sincerity in the way he looked at her. Perhaps, she thought, he still had a conscience. Perhaps, he was not as evil as she thought.


    "It''s all in the past,  Andrew. I almost can''t recall anything about it anymore," she replied in a nonchalant expression, leaving Andrew staring at her back, tongue-tied. He knew it was an exaggeration but he also understood that Cherry only wanted to show him that he held no value for her in the past. It hurt but he could not blame her.


    Meanwhile, in Allie and Ajie''s room, a loud knocking was heard. The two looked at each other, wondering who could it be. Ajie stood up and looked through the peephole and found Andrew standing with a disturbed look. He opened the door and invited him in.


    "Adrian, I would just like to ask. How long did you know that Cherry is alive? Why did you keep it from me?" said Andrew in a loud voice, making Allie worried and a bit scared.


    Ajie, who had no idea what happened in the theatre, raised his brows in confusion. He then realized that maybe, the two crossed their paths somewhere. "Why, you two have met again?"


    "Adrian, please stop making me look like a fool. You must have known the whole truth a long time ago but you just kept it from me."


    Understanding Adrian''s reaction, Allie intervened. "Hayri pulled me and Cherry to the theatre a while ago and that''s how they met again."


    Ajie held Allie''s gaze for a while before he looked back at Andrew and gave out a faint smile. "Andrew, I thought time has changed you but you proved me wrong. Why do you always think I have something to do in any of your failures?"


    Andrew perhaps realized his mistake, he softened his look and apologized. "I didn''t mean it that way. It''s just that it seemed this is not the first time you also met again."


    Ajie took a deep breath before he went ahead. "Yes, it''s not the first but my second this year. It just so happened that Allie met her while she was in another country."


    "How come she''s alive?" Andrew asked.


    "We have not discussed it yet," Ajie answered, trying hard to appear as honest as he could muster.


    "Cherry never disclosed anything about her past," said Allie, helping Ajie affirm his claim.


    Andrew no longer said anything. He strode towards the door and went out with sagging shoulders. The two looked at each other, silently communicating their thoughts about Andrew for a moment and then burst out laughing afterward.  Seized by their emotion at the moment, Ajie pulled her close and pressed his lips against hers, taunting her for a passionate kiss. Allie parted hers to welcome him and in the next moment, they found themselves in a heated encounter in their bed.


    All throughout the cruise, including the drops off to some places on their route towards Japan, there were a couple of times where Ryan Tan joined meals with the whole family and there they discussed business. Ryan was so persistent about it that it did not take them long to close the deal. Rough Seas Marine Supplies and Equipment would venture out to a new market in the Arab world, specifically the United Arab Emirates. However, instead of getting overjoyed over the leap in the business world, Allie was a bit apprehensive. These countries were known for their skyrocketing breakthrough in science and technology and therefore would not need their products and services. But Ryan was very good at winning their hearts and soon her apprehensions were all gone. He did not only develop friendship among youngsters like Ajie and Allie or Hayri and Jane but also won the approval of the whole family especially the elderlies. Even Chloe gave her trust in him.


    During their first stop in Yokohama, they went directly to its famous Chinatown were a large number of Chinese stores and restaurants could be found in the colorful streets along the five gate entrances. They visited the Kanteibyo temple which was dedicated to its Chinese god of good business and prosperity. While walking along one of the streets to find a good restaurant that offered the best of the country''s cuisine, Ryan was taking Chloey on a horsey-game, lifting her upon his shoulders.


    "Ryan, you''ll get sore later. Chloe is heavy," Jane warned him as both were laughing their hearts out. Chloe often squealed in delight every time Ryan bounced her off on his shoulders and the latter also laughed in amusement at her shrill hiss of joy.


    "It''s not true, auntie! Uncle Ryan is so big and tall," protested Chloe who might be wishing. her bliss would not be ending soon.


    "Yeah but Chloe is also a giant girl!" argued Jane, feeling sorry already for Ryan who may have been enduring his ordeal just so he wouldn''t spoil the child''s happiness.


    Chloe was about to protest when she saw a stall selling colorful toys. She slid down from his shoulder and ran toward the stall. The rest of the adults were also busy talking while waiting.


    "Baby, here are other toys you can choose from," said the man in an enthusiastic voice.


    Chloe followed and was then hooked up in choosing toys while the rest were listening to the man who was too quick to make demonstrations of one product to another. Little did they know that while their attention was grabbed by the disguise of product demonstration, someone enticed Chloe to look at the toys in another stall until she got too far away.

 Chapter 153 - The Announcement Of Revenge

    "Return the child tomorrow morning. This is not the time yet," the voice of his mysterious boss rang in his ear.


    "Where will I return the child?" Joey asked further, risking himself to clarify for this. A single mistake would surely end his life.


    "Drop her at the hotel," said the boss who added his instruction regarding the name and location of the hotel.


    Joey looked at the child in his lap. Since he brought her inside his van, they kept on running aimlessly at the roads. The boss''s instruction was clear, he should not bring her to a hotel or any of their hideouts. Ever since he started working for his boss, he hadn''t seen him yet. His personality and his background remained a mystery to him. There was one thing he was sure of, this man could be powerful. Even without seeing him, he could tell what he was doing so he could not risk himself in betraying him. Either he was in the same place with him or not, another thing he was sure of was that he was also monitoring his loyalty.


    However, this current task bothered him. No matter how many people he was summoned to kill, no matter how many attacks he had initiated, taking a child as his victim was still heavy in his heart. His mind flew back to what happened yesterday. After he succeeded in persuading Chloe to follow him into his car, he, indeed, lure her with the colorful toys and candies. The child was indeed jubilating with the new set of goodies. When she started to get bored and looked for her parents, he covered her nose with the little amount of chloroform enough to keep her unconscious of what went through. Since his boss had no plan to harm her yet and that this incident now was just to announce his coming revenge, she must not remember his face and how her temporary abduction was carried out. Children don''t lie.


    Parking in front of the hotel, his mind flew back to the day he made a commitment to serve him. Seeing himself in his mind, his heart was wrapped again with that sense of sadness and pain he felt at that time.


    "Sir, please save my daughter. I will do whatever you ask me in return," he begged, almost kneeling down to gain his favor.


    He was referred to him by a friend who also served him. Bound by a thick blindfold, he was led into a room where a beautiful music met his ears. He was assisted to a chair and sat there for a while before the player of that grand piano slammed his fingers into the keys to end his piece.


    "What''s the matter with your daughter?" the man asked, his voice not far away.


    "She''s in the hospital right now, sir, and the doctor prescribed me the medicine which would amount to a million, not to mention those other hospital charges."


    "How old is she?"


    "She''s about your age, sir."


    "How about keeping her for a mistress?" the man may have smirked at him though he could not see.


    "There''s only one thing I want to ask from you as a condition, sir. Please let her retain her dignity. I am willing to lose mine, just please set her free."


    Later at the Intensive Care Unit, the boss went to see Joey''s daughter. Hooked to a mechanical ventilator and a cardiac monitor which kept on beeping as the numbers exceeded and preceded the normal limits, she was lying there with her whole face covered with plasters. A tube was connected to her mouth for her breathing, another to her nose for her feeding. In her arms were tubings attached to intravenous fluids and in one of her fingers was a connector to the cardiac monitor.


    The doctor came in and was surprised to see him. His name was famous and he always appeared in magazines or in news portals. "Sir, it is an honor to see you visiting my patient. Is she related to you?"


    The boss nodded and asked, "What''s her chance of survival?"


    The doctor looked at him straight in the eye. "I could not give you a false reassurance, sir. She is now in a very critical condition. We do our best and God will do the rest. He grants miracles. He can do many things beyond what our knowledge and expertise are can."


    "From the way you say it doc, it seems that you are entrusting her life now to a divine power, which could mean your medical interventions hold little hope as of the moment."


    "Sir, I believe in entrusting our lives first to the Lord before giving what we as humans can do. Nothing is too hard for the Lord."


    The boss shook his head in amusement. How could this person who spent his years in studying and practicing medicine hold lesser faith in himself than the God he claims? Yet somehow, a strange feeling grew in his heart, making him feel that there was truth in all his claims.


    "Doc, give her everything she needs. I want her to live," he sneered. The woman before him was already an inch closer to her grave and if she would really live, he might believe that there''s a living God.


    Joey''s daughter was first admitted due to complaints of loose bowel movement. After three days where she hoped to be discharged, she felt a sense of numbness in both of her soles. The numbness ascended to her thighs until she could no longer move her legs. They thought she had a low potassium level in her blood which caused her weakness but when it was checked, it was normal. After a series of laboratory tests and diagnostic procedures like the Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Electromyogram-Nerve Conduction Velocity, she was found out to have a fatal disorder called Guillain-Barre Syndrome, a rapidly progressive paralysis and loss of reflexes. The medications and the medical management were extremely expensive and the recovery takes several months.


    ___


    Chloe moved and he was snapped back into his senses. "Baby girl, you want to go back to your mommy and daddy?"

 Chapter 154 - Could It Be Andrew?

    "Yes," Chloe began to cry. Her excitement for the toys and colorful candies had already worn off.


    "Okay, but you have to be a good girl."


    "I am," she squealed.


    "I know but you have to listen to my instructions."


    Chloe nodded like a sheep in a slaughter, being anxious already with a stranger. Chloe may have a developmental deficiency but her intelligence quotient was very high.


    "I will, what is it?" "You have to go back to the hotel by yourself. As soon as you see a guard, ask for his help to bring you to your parents."


    "But I don''t know where is it?" she protested.


    Chloe grew up being overprotected and this task she had to do now was too difficult for her. She was not even exposed to a large crowd. Her constant association was only with her schoolmates but they were already familiar to her.


    "I will drop you by the entrance, okay?"


    "Okay," was all she said but fear was registered in her eyes.


    Soon after that, Joey stopped a few meters from the entrance. He opened the door and assisted her in going down the car. As soon as Chloe walked a few steps away, Joey zoomed away and in the next block, he went down from the car and boarded to another car waiting for him.


    His heart was heavy. He was not born to be an assassin. If it were not for the life of his daughter, he would never get himself entangled in this dark world. Getting out was already impossible except seeing himself in bloody torture or death itself. Through time he learned to carry out his task without batting an eyelash but this one was different. It involved a child. And this one would remind him of his pain and fear for his daughter.


    _____________


    Ajie joined Ryan in coordinating with the local authority in searching for Chloe. With Ryan''s negotiation, several troops were sent in different areas to look for Chloe.


    "Brother, I''m asking for your favor. Please send your men over to help us look for a lost child," Ajie heard Ryan said the same request a couple of times already.


    "I''ll send a photo of the child. We were in Chinatown yesterday. She was choosing some toys displayed on the stall while we got hooked up to a product demonstration. None of us realized that she had wandered away already," Ryan went further.


    "Kidnap-for-ransom is a possibility but until now, no one has called," explained Ryan further. Perhaps, the receiver of his call asked what could be the motive of the abduction.


    In the next moment, he frowned and glanced up at Ajie, his brows were gathered together in a split of a second. "What? If money is the motive, it is acceptable but revenge?"


    Ryan then turned the speaker on so Ajie could hear. "If the abductor has not called yet, the motive is most likely revenge..." the receiver on the other line further explained.


    Ryan then ended the call and looked at Ajie in the eye. His expression was really serious. "Can you think of someone who could be behind this? Or someone who could be carrying a revenge against you?"


    Ajie nodded without saying a word. He got lost in his thoughts and then remembered what Cherry said. Could it be Andrew? Just how deep was his hatred toward him that he had to involve a child? Thinking back to his latest encounter with him, it seemed that he was angry at him for not telling him the truth about Cherry. He must have felt he was betrayed or being fooled around. On the other hand, Ajie thought he had changed already. He thought his girlfriend had already helped him with his anxiety disorder.


    Yet, this was merely speculation. He could not point him out as there was no evidence yet that he did something illegal. He just couldn''t believe that Andrew would stoop as low as this just to carry out his baseless revenge. Could it be him or there was someone else? But who? If it was indeed him, why would he risk his fame over his trivial paranoia?


    They were roaming around the city inside the patrol car, helping in the search operation. Ajie remained silent throughout, his eyes were on the road but his mind was on Andrew and how despicable he was. He looked so respectable in his dark suit during his concerts but his soul was eaten up with jealousy and paranoia.  Old habits die hard, indeed.


    As the skies turned crimson, giving way to the early morning sunshine, Ryan''s phone rang. Ajie glanced up to him and then to the screen of his phone, hoping it was a call to announce that Chloe was found already. Ryan must have noticed him so he turned the speaker on.


    "Sir, a child is seen being dropped near the entrance of the hotel. According to the description, the child looks exactly to the photo you sent."


    "Get the car''s plate number and chase it!" ordered Ryan, his voice almost broke Ajie''s ears.


    Ajie''s fatigued eyes lit up. "Chloe is found?" he asked, "where?"


    "We will get the full story once we''ll get back to the hotel, " replied Ryan whose face also lit up with joy.


    "Can we go back now?"


    "Of course."


    Meanwhile, at the hotel, Allie''s anxiety was increasing in every minute that passed by. She kept facing back and forth, making the rest worry about her as well. She was with a child and her anxiety might affect the baby. Even the elderlies did not sleep. They kept on waiting for an update but it hours had already passed and still, there was no news about her.


    Allie''s mother, being the one who personally took care of the child, began wailing and such action brought tears to everyone''s eyes. Sam comforted her but somehow, it did not lessen the weight she carried in her heart. She blamed herself. If only she was careful enough. If only she did not entrust the responsibility to someone else.


    Just as they were all sniffing in their silent tears, being carried by Mary''s wailing, a child''s voice broke into their ears. "Mommy," she paused as she looked into their faces, "why do you cry?"

 Chapter 155 - Chloe Is Back

    Allie stared at her in disbelief. Was she only hallucinating due to her anxiety?


    "Mommy!" Chloe called her out again, seeing that she was not responding. She raised a finger to her face and touched it.


    "Please don''t cry."


    Her touch made Allie return to her senses and so she threw her arms around and hugged her tight, bursting into wailing at the same time. The others froze as well for a couple of seconds.


    "Darling, where have you been?"


    "My God, Chloe, where have you been?"


    "Where have you been my love and who was with you? Who brought you here?"


    They all chorused their questions, making Chloe confused who among them would she answer first. She ran her eyes through all of them and in a puzzled look, she exclaimed, "Why?"


    Seeing her confused look, Allie pulled her closer and sat her in her lap. "Baby, who accompanied you in coming back here?"


    "Uncle!"


    "What is his name?" Allie asked further, combing Chloe''s hair with her fingers. He made her voice as soft and gentle as possible, to avoid scaring her.


    Jane watched how Allie handled the situation in front of her child and she realized that mothers indeed have their instincts. She did not undergo any therapeutic management training to be able to guide her in handling this kind of situation. Yet, the way she did it in a proper manner, amazed and took her by surprise. She then realized that if her marriage to Ajie was pushed through, she could never take her place as the real mother.


    "I don''t know," Chloe answered but a pout started to curve in her tiny lips.


    "Baby, I guess uncle is like an angel because she brought you here. Perhaps he has a lot of candies." Needless to ask, the abductor must have brought candies or toys to lure children out.


    "Yeah, he gave me toys but I forgot to bring it with me."


    "Did that uncle also brought you to the park and played with you?" Flashes of Chloe being tied up and blindfolded floated in her mind and all her fear and other wild imaginations came back. Her voice started to crack and hot tears escaped from her eyes.


    "No, we were in his car and I played with the toys then I got sleepy."


    Allie looked up and communicated silently with everyone around. Sleeping may imply an action taken by the abductor  other than the usual pattern of a child''s sleeping routine.


    "Let''s have her checked," Ajie''s voice startled all of them. No one noticed his arrival with Ryan. All their attention was focused on the mother-and-child exchanges.


    Mr. Dioko stood up and looked at the two men. "How does the investigation go? Is someone behind this?"


    Ryan placed his hands in both of his pockets as he returned Mr. Dioko''s gaze. "Considering the means it was carried out and the way she is returned, it could be an indirect announcement that someone is plotting against one of you."


    Everyone gasped in fear. Since Chloe was used as a warning, the revenged was perhaps directed at Ajie or Allie.


    "If I may have an enemy, why does he have to execute it here in Japan? I could not remember that I offended someone when I was here," Ajie answered.


    "He may have monitored you already and knew about your plan to join the cruise. He planned all these ahead. Who knows if he''s with us on the cruise?"


    Cherry felt shivers running along her spine. If she was right in her speculation, Ryan was right. He was with them on the cruise. She cast a glance at Ajie and the latter met her eyes. She then saw Ajie turned red in anger and his sharp gaze seemed to emit lava from an erupting volcano.


    "Let''s return to the ship!" he scowled; his lips were already quivering in anger. Andrew succeeded in manipulating Allie''s decision in running away and that had cost their marriage.


    Ryan narrowed his eyes and looked at Ajie. "It seems that you have someone in your mind."


    Looking at everyone around, he then narrated their personal grievances ever since they were kids in Molave. He also confessed how he successfully manipulated Allie in changing her identity and in running away for her life.


    "But what if he has come down already?" Mrs. Lopez asked.


    Jane butted in and volunteered. "I''ll call the management and ask for their schedule."


    "How about joining the cruise back to Singapore?" Ryan suggested, "in that way, we can have a longer time to observe him."


    "I agree," Mr. Lopez replied.


    "This should  not be taken lightly so I also agree."


    "It''s a good decision."


    All of them came up with the unanimous decision to join the cruise back to Singapore. The two great tycoons ordered their men to fly to Japan for the surveillance operation. The fact that Andrew executed his first step in Japan, it could mean he had connections in this country. Or perhaps, he was affiliated with an organization in the black market. However, it was difficult to point him out without strong pieces of evidence


    Their initial plan to visit the temples and shrines in Kyoto, the Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace and museums in Tokyo and the famous Mt. Fuji, an active volcano southwest of Tokyo, was all canceled. None of them was in the mood for sightseeing anymore. They just waited for the laboratory tests of Chloe.


    A few hours after, the result was released. A trace amount of chemical compound was found in her blood, a chloroform. A chloroform or trichloromethane is an organc compound used as solvent for lacquers, resins, adhesives and many others. At lower doses, it can knock a person out but at large doses, it can be fatal.


    Their trip back to the ship was silent except the babblings of Chloe about the toys she missed in Joey''s van. Allie just nodded and smiled but her heart was torn by her innocence. What if she was not returned? What if the culprit had a plan to abduct her again?


    As soon as they arrived in the port, Ajie went straight ahead to the ship without waiting for the rest. All he wanted was to find Andrew and punch him to death. Just how grave was his hatred to him that he had to involve his family? Was Allie not enough for him? He was not a man enough to also involve his innocent child? He just couldn''t fathom how evil he was in including the innocent ones in his revenge.


    He asked for Andrew''s cabin number and in less than a minute, he was already banging loudly on the door. The door was soon opened and Joan came out. "Sir Adrian, how may I help you?"


    "Where''s Andrew?" he shouted. Without waiting to be invited, he rushed forward, pushing Joan to the side.


    "Andrew! Come out!"

 Chapter 156 - The Investigation

    Joanna ran after him and before Ajie could raise a fist at Andrew, she wrapped her arms around Ajie''s waist and pulled him.


    "What''s the problem? Can''t we talk this out?" Joanna shouted hysterically, making Ajie stop.


    "Joanna, you just don''t know what this man did to us and now, he''s at this again! I can hold my temper if he would aim his revenge at me, but involving my innocent child this time, is something I can''t forgive. I''m sorry," Ajie was trembling in his restrained anger. If only Joanna wasn''t there to stop him, perhaps, his face wouldn''t be recognized anymore.


    "What are you talking about? What did he do?"


    "Of course, he won''t tell you!"


    "Look at him, Adrian! Ever since he knew that Cherry did not die, his anxiety returns. He was not even able to perform lately."


    Ajie glanced up at Andrew. He was on a swivel chair, looking at them with a flat affect. It seemed he did not recognize them. He even did not care that he was already shouting at her girlfriend. And he didn''t seem to get alarmed by the commotion he was about to bring about.


    He had always known that Andrew cared about his outward appearance but at this moment, his hair was disheveled. There were visible stubs below his ears and around his chin. His eyes lost its glow and it seemed he was too tired to even blink.


    "He''s not sleeping and eating for days already. He''s been sitting on that chair for who knows how long."


    Ajie creased his brows as he stared at Joanna, trying to read between the lines. Was she telling the truth or was she just trying to cover up? No matter how he tried to see beyond her facade, he could not find any sign that she was only making up her story. She really looked honest and sincere.


    Giving her his last sharp stare, Ajie turned around and sprinted out of their cabin. He headed towards the cabin of one of the members of the band. He knocked and soon, a man in his late twenties appeared at the door. Ajie easily recognized him as the guitarist.


    "Hi, sir! Is there anything you want from me?" the guitarist asked him politely. It was such an honor that the builder and designer of this large ship came to see him. Was he going to propose a new contract?


    "Can we talk for a while?" Ajie asked, his tone was serious and it made him jumpy.


    Soon after that, Ajie brought him to a coffee shop. Ajie chose a table at a corner and they sat across each other.


    "How''s your performance lately?" Ajie began to ask.


    The guitarist was a bit apprehensive. There must be a deeper reason why this chief engineer and designer wanted to talk to him.


    "It''s good but lately, we lacked one important member. Our concerts are never complete without him. The people always look for him," said the guitarist. There was a hint of sadness in his tone.


    "Who and where  is he?" Ajie asked, pretending he had no idea on what he said.


    "Our pianist, sir. Andrew is his name. He is just inside their cabin. According to Joanna, he is sick and that she is treating him."


    "How long are you in this group?"


    "About four years, sir."


    "In those four years, are you with Andrew?"


    "Yes, sir."


    "Have you held concerts somewhere in Japan before?"


    "No, sir."


    "Do you have any acquaintances residing in Japan?"


    "None, sir."


    "How about Andrew?"


    "I don''t think so. He doesn''t even go out for sightseeing."


    Ajie''s investigation ended without getting any lead that would point out to Andrew as the avenger. Everything Joanna and the guitarist revealed, coincided. The logbook, the CCTV and the schedule of the band''s performance supported their claims.


    During their dinner later, Ajie informed everyone about everything he gathered during his investigation.


    "Does it mean that Andrew has nothing to do with Chloe''s abduction?"


    "If not him, who else?" Mrs. Lopez asked; this turn of events started to make her worry again.


    The tension in the air started to grow again but Ryan''s soft chuckle diverted their attention.


    "Nowadays, any form of negotiations no longer needs physical appearance and those people who are suffering from anxiety disorder are all manipulative. So, everything can be faked, including diseases and disorders. Let us all be careful so as not to be deceived."


    "You''re right," Jane seconded and so everyone was convinced that Andrew was really the one behind this. However, they had to find ways to link him to this incidence.


    Later into the night, Ajie went to see Joanna again. He brought Allie with him to avoid suspicions from Andrew. Taking what''s his was always been his issue so Allie''s presence would buffer it. They went inside another coffee shop that was less crowded. Once they got their coffee, they gathered at a table near the entrance so that they could see who was coming in or out.


    "Joanna, if you don''t mind, are you not bothered that Andrew has this disorder?" Allie began to ask.


    "I find it difficult because unlike another patient, he is a part of me," came Joanna''s answer preceded by a peal of soft laughter.


    "How did you first meet? As a patient or as a public figure?" Allie asked further.


    "I was his avid fan. I really followed him in all his major concerts until I  became a part of the band. My life rotated in a music school ever since I was three years old. I was trained to be a singer so having a partner who is also a musician, has always been my dream."


    It was never difficult to understand, based on how Joanna described how they met, that Andrew''s flaws were something she had fully accepted on the day she fell in love with him. Loving a person means loving him or her for the way they are.


    They had only talked for a few minutes but Allie already admired Joanna''s personality. Her ability to understand a person based on his unpleasant background and the greatness of her heart to accept a person despite the flaws was something peculiar about her.


    After a  while of exchanging personal backgrounds, Ajie finally got an opening to bring out his intentions.


    "Joanna, has Andrew ever happened to bring out my name?"


    "Of course but I should warn you, those were all unpleasant."

 Chapter 157 - Shift Your Focus

    "Do you know that we were neighbors in Molave?"


    Joanna smiled and nodded. "I know many things about you even before we met. Andrew tells me everything about your childhood, your college days and the day she talked to Allyza."


    "So it is clear that he wants revenge. I just don''t understand why he always looks at me as his competitor."


    "Because you are," replied Joanna while a faint smile broke out in her lips.


    Ajie narrowed his gaze towards her. He could not remember that he interfered in his plans and activities before. In fact, he gave up so many things just to give way to him.


    "What do you mean?"


    Joanna sighed. How she wished she could tell him the whole truth. "Adrian, our sense of self-worth starts at home. If a child grows up in a home where love is overflowing, where he is given lavish attention and care, then we can expect that this child will grow up with self- confidence. Sadly, Andrew did not have this."


    Ajie looked at her with gathered brows. "Is it because of his parent''s demise?"


    "Sadly, there''s more to that, he did not grow up in a happy home. His parents are always quarreling and he was always the subject of their fightings."


    Ajie stared at him for a moment while piecing up those events in the past together. He then remembered that his father would always accompany and fetched him in school while Andrew walked back and forth alone. He had a lot of money for his snacks and lunch while Andrew didn''t have. He was trained in singing while Andrew had his piano lessons but he gained more popularity in school. The girl''s shrieks and squeals would last long after his rendition but they only gave Andrew a loud round of applause.


    "I always understood his insecurities before but he has already gone overboard. He manipulated the decisions of Allie and now he is involving my daughter."


    "I agree with everything you say except involving your daughter."


    "You may not know this. He sent someone to abduct my daughter when we were in Chinatown. Can you relate to our fear and anxiety as parents?"


    Joanna shook her head as she looked at Ajie. "I may not be a parent yet but I can understand how you feel. But if I may suggest, try to expand your investigation and consider another person''s motive whom you may have set free just because your focus is on Andrew."


    When Adrian did not say anything and remained staring at her, she continued. "Adrian, ever since I knew Andrew, our lives rotated in each other, in his treatment and healing process and in our schedules. I''m afraid that you may have overlooked the situation and set the real culprit free."


    Allie saw Joanna''s sincerity and no matter how she tried to weigh the pros and cons, Joanna was right. "Joanna, what can you suggest for the healing of Andrew?"


    Joanna''s lips lifted into a warm smile. "I studied Psychology for years and I believe in medications and support group. Yet, I have my own convictions. I still believe that reconciliation and forgiveness is the key."


    "What do you mean?" Allie asked, surprised and amazed at her personal conviction. She knew that religion and faith in the Almighty are discouraged in the therapeutic management of people who have anxiety disorders. However, there are few institutions that defied this belief. For these few, they believed that accepting God in their lives is the most important factor in the change that these people long for.


    "If you can ask Cherry to forgive him, then maybe he''ll improve. As for Adrian, let him talk to someone he knew in Molave. Ajie''s father, perhaps."


    Allie and Ajie returned to their suite with disturbed thoughts. They were fully convinced that it was not Andrew. If not him, then who? The only enemy they knew before was Hayri but he''s already out of this. And besides, Hayri had such a good heart. Even if he was hurt and frustrated, he could never do it to an innocent child.


    The following morning, Allie and Ajie decided to spend breakfast with Joanna and Andrew. They invited Cherry along. They had already explained everything to her the night before and Cherry agreed. It was also about time for her to let go of the past and move on completely.


    Ajie booked a private dining room at a regular restaurant that didn''t serve buffet meals since it was expected to be less crowded. There they could have complete privacy. The three arrived ahead but it took them several minutes before they saw them coming over.


    Allie felt happy to see Andrew cooperating. Though his expression was still grim, he looked neat and handsome in his white polo shirt and a pair of checkered pair of shorts and leather shoes. Joanna saw her looking at them so she waved a hand and smiled. She stood up to greet Andrew with a tap at his shoulder and a hug and kiss for Joanna. To her surprise, Ajie also did the same.


    Her eyes fell subconsciously at Cherry and she remembered that the scene may be awkward for her. She wore a constant warm smile but her eyes spoke of the uneasiness she felt inside.


    "Hi, Che! Thanks for joining us," Joanna greeted her with a smile while extending a hand to shake with her.


    "Hi!" Cherry replied awkwardly but nevertheless, she stood up and shook a hand with her. To her shock, Joanna came forward to hug her tight. Somehow, she felt that it was how Joanna expressed her gratitude for agreeing to her suggestion.


    Before Joanna and Andrew arrived, Cherry felt her most dreaded moment had come. How could she face Andrew without showing him her anger? Without speaking hurtful words and without showing him a cold facade? He destroyed her life and how could she forgive him that easily? She began regretting her decision to join them. Forgiving him was such a strange thing in her heart. She hated him as much as her own mother.


    After Joanna released her, her eyes unintentionally fell at Andrew who was already hovering over them. Their gazes locked for a while until she saw him stepped forward. She froze at the thought that Joanna was there watching them. She got lost in her thoughts for a while and before she knew it, Andrew had already pulled her close and hugged her tight.

 Chapter 158 - Sense Of Release

    Cherry''s eyes widened in shock. How could she not? Joanna was there! She got so worried that she might hurt her or that she might misinterpret her. She looked up and the latter met her eyes. To her surprise, Joanna nodded at her, telling her to allow him so he could ventilate his guilt. He blamed himself for causing her death and he carried the guilt for so long already.


    In the next moment, Andrew was already sobbing at her shoulder. She stood frozen for a while, her feet pinned to the floor. When she regained her composure, she gently pulled him away and held his shoulders at arm''s length.


    "Andrew..." she started to speak but suddenly, the words she had in her mind disappeared.


    Before she could continue, he spoke ahead. "I killed you. How did you save yourself? Please thank the person who rescued you from the water," said Andrew and he began crying again, placing both of his hands to cover his face.


    "Andrew, a fisherman rescued me right away. I was not struggling in the cold water. Only that I asked him to keep it secret."


    Cherry chose to lie. She understood that Andrew had been haunted by this terrible nightmare for so long already and realizing it, made her guilty.


    "Every night, I dream about the dark night, the mighty storm and the big waves tossing you everywhere until you were drowned and gave in your last breath. My guilt made me refuse to live, Che. I tried to end my life so many times until Joanna came into my life. You were so good to me despite my weaknesses. I did not just betray you but also prompted you to kill yourself," Andrew confessed in between his sobs.


    Cherry''s heart was not as hard as stone. No matter how she tried to hold back her tears but it betrayed her and flowed freely into her cheeks.


    "I have long forgiven you, Andrew. Forget the past and move on. I wish you and Joanna true happiness." With this, she threw herself at him again and hugged him, releasing the anger and hatred she kept in her heart through her tears.


    After who knew how long, Andrew released her this time and held her shoulders also at arm''s length.


    "Che, thank you," he said and a smile broke in his face.


    Cherry just nodded; all she wanted was to be alone and continue crying. She wanted to release all of her pain once and for all and start to love again. She glanced up at Joanna and Allie and found them drenched in tears also. She got amused and the sense of release tickled her heart that she burst out laughing, making all of them laugh as well.


    Their breakfast over toast and coffee with a steaming, brewed coffee was a happy one. They talked about music and concerts and everyone participated, completely forgetting what had happened a while ago. They seemed like old friends in their usual hanging out.


    The natural glow in Andrew''s eyes returned and he joined in the conversation as his normal self. Yet suddenly, he shifted the topic that stiffened the rest in their seats. He understood their reaction and sensed that something was not right.


    "Why? Did I say something wrong?"


    Allie was quick to regain her composure and she answered for all of them. "Nothing except that we do not expect that you will still remember her."


    Andrew tossed his head back and laughed softly. "My goodness, Allyza, how can I forget. I may not be a saint but seeing her in that status, broke my heart apart."


    He glanced up at them and seeing that nobody butted in, he continued. "You know, the last time we talked in that coffee shop, Mrs. Perez came to look for me," said Andrew, the smile on his face suddenly withered away.


    He then looked at Cherry and went on, "She brought me to the grave she made for you and there she reminded me of the great sin I committed. If not for my betrayal, you would have still lived and become a famous singer someday."


    All eyes fell on him and nobody dared to interrupt. "I came out of that memorial garden as a different person. I lost my courage to live. Every now and then, she reminded me of my betrayal and my crime. Until I decided to end my life. Unfortunately, they always caught me doing the deed so they got me scheduled to see a psychologist."


    "It was how I met Joanna. She gives me hope and helps me live again," he laughed, he was just quoting a line of a famous love song.


    "I realized how long and patient does God bears with me. He gives me chances to live and be loved again."


    Since nobody offered their opinions aside from listening to him seriously, he laughed and dismissed the topic. "So much for that," he paused and looked at Cherry, "Che, it. ''s your turn."


    Cherry got startled by his request. She looked at Allie and asked for sympathy but the latter nodded her head and encouraged her to share her story. For Allie, it was another step to healing her wound.


    "Long before I boarded MV Helena, I already processed my application to work in Turkey. I was lonely and friendless. I worked overtime always to ease out my boredom until one day, Allie sent her proposal to me. Knowing that she came from our country, I helped her gain the purchasing department''s attention. And that''s how our friendship started. Who would have known that she''s Adrian''s wife?"


    "And just when did you know about them?" Andrew dared to ask. This was his issue against Ajie for not telling him the truth.


    "I knew about it when Adrian came over to Turkey a few months ago to sign the contract of their partnership. He didn''t know either that the owner of Rough Seas is Allie. And he did not know that he would also find me there."


    Andrew glanced up shyly at Adrian. Just the other day, he accused Adrian of fooling him, of keeping the truth away from him. And Adrian proved him wrong at that moment.


    "Adrian, I''m sorry. Something''s wrong in my way of thinking and in my judgment. You may ask Joanna, she knows my psychological problem very well."


    Adrian looked at him with a pursed smile. "If I am a person who keeps a grudge, I would have punched you to death the moment I learned about the video."


    Andrew cowered in remembering this. He bent down his head, concealing the reddening of his face.


    "I was torn by anger and jealousy at that moment. All I wanted was to retaliate," he glanced up a little and looked at Allie, "Lyz, I had it photoshopped."

 Chapter 159 - Change Of Plan

    "I already know about it but it bothered me for so long," she then waved a hand and went on, "It''s all in the past, Andrew. One thing I want you to do is to learn to forgive and forget whatever grievances you hold. Only then can you move on and be truly free and happy."


    Andrew held her gaze and chuckled. "It seems difficult but I believe God can change our hearts. If not because of Him, my life is already ruined. With Joanna around, my healing process won''t take long anymore."


    They all nodded at him. In their hearts, they were happy for him. No matter how dark  his intentions were  in the past, God gave him a chance to feel complete and be happy.


    After a while, they stood up and bid goodbye to each other. Before Andrew and Joanna turned in a separate direction, the former called out. "Che..."


    Cherry looked over her shoulder and waited for what he was going to say. With eyes filled with regret, he went on, "I also wish you  happiness."


    Cherry laughed an

 Chapter 160 - Am I That Important?"

    After he slammed his fingers at the last notes of Rossini''s William Tell Overture, Andrew stood up before the crowd with a pursed smile then bent his body forward. A long and deafening round of applause broke from the crowd, marking the end of his rendition.


    Andrew felt a sense of fulfillment as he made his exit in the anteroom. A load was lifted out from him and he felt an inner peace which he never had for a long time. His guilt over Cherry''s demise was already heaved out. What remained was his grudge with someone in the past which started during his childhood.


    He went straight to their cabin to relax but as soon as he stood by the glass window to watch over the moonlit body of the water outside, a wrinkled hand tapped over his left shoulder. He looked at the hand then lifted his head up to see who owned it. Now realizing who he was, he laughed in a derisive tone.


    "Why are you here? Am I suddenly that important to you? Or you are just playing innocent?"


    The man didn''t budge. He remained standing where he was while Andrew stepped away from him. After a while of debating within himself, his voice came out. "Congratulations! You play so well."


    Andrew felt tickled by his compliment. How come this man got the courage finally to acknowledge his talent? He saw him every time he performed or played an instrument in school before.


    "Why not? Is not my father good in music?"


    A moment of silence was his only reply. Andrew got irritated and just as he was about to drive him away, he spoke. "When did you know the truth?"


    Andrew didn''t budge. He got lost in his thoughts as a scene in the past played in his mind. He saw his father again throwing an object against his mother. "Why did you spend a great amount for that bastard?"


    "It''s only a small keyboard he can use to practice  at home, Raul!" Amalia still replied even if her hands were already trembling in fear.


    "Don''t fool me, Amalia! Tell me rather the truth that you just want to show the father of that bastard that you are giving his child full support in music because it''s the talent he got from him."


    "You''re just drunk, Raul! The alcohol gets into your head again!" she hissed while avoiding his finger poking on her forehead.


    Raul broke into a scornful giggle until his stomach hurt. "My dear, don''t you know that those things uttered by drunk men are always the painful truth he couldn''t dare to say while in a sober state?"


    Amalia stared at him with a sense of remorse in her heart for getting lured into his romantic advances in the past. Gone were the days where she looked at him with pride and admiration in his heart. Sad to say, regret always comes late.


    "You better go to sleep rather than letting your craziness rule over you!" she scowled back, gone also were the days where she cowered like a wet chick every time he started to raise his voice at her.


    Raul stepped forward and yanked her head by pulling her hair down. His gaze sharpened as he looked into her eyes. "Why, Amalia? Are you afraid that your bastard will know that I am not his real father?"


    She placed her two hands on his chest and pushed him with all her strength backward, freeing herself from his grip on her hair with a grunt. "Shut up! You''re so despicable."


    Raul staggered backward but he regained his balance and came forward to grab her again. "Who''s more despicable between us? You spread your legs before a man who is not your husband!"


    Avoiding his grip by stepping backward, she retorted. "You knew he''s not just a man. He was the man I really loved but I gave in to your threats to kill him if I won''t agree in marrying you!"


    "So you love him until now?"


    _______


    Andrew subconsciously placed his hands over both ears to avoid hearing the voices in his mind. The next thing he heard while he inclined his ear on the thin wall that separated his room from his parents were loud thuds and bangings, intensified by the screams of his mother asking for help. Almost every day, this same scene was something he saw and heard until the day he was informed that both of them died in a vehicular accident. He knew it was not a simple accident. It was prompted by another episode of their bloody fights until perhaps his father went out of control and fell into a cliff.


    The man saw Andrew leaned on the wall of the room, his hands over his ears. He closed his eyes tightly and slowly slid down to the floor in with his chin on top of his knees. Tears slid down his cheeks as his grimace pulled his brows together. Drops of sweats smeared his temples as he pushed his hands harder into his ears until he groaned in inexplicable mental agony.


    The door was pushed open and Joanna strode in. She looked at Andrew first and then to the man who stood stiff in his place. His sweat shone in his temples and forehead and his eyes darted with fear and confusion.


    "Uncle," Joanna greeted him first, "how long have you been here?"


    The man lifted his eyes and looked at her. He sighed and she noticed his shaking hands which he curled into a fist. She remained gazing at him, waiting for him to reply until he got the courage perhaps to voice out his questions. "What happened? What shall I do?"


    "Uncle, may I talk to you?"


    He nodded but his eyes were glued at him. After a while, he turned around to follow Joanna to a coffee table beside another glass window parallel to where Andrew was crouching. Yet, Andrew''s pitiful image shattered his heart into pieces that he was compelled to go back to him. Looking at him trembling and perspiring, he dropped onto his knees and reached out his arms to pull him into a tight embrace.


    Joanna then heard him say, "I''m sorry, son."

 Chapter 161 - This Child Is Not Yours

    Andrew stiffened and got startled at the first sense of warmth. Never in his life did he experience the love of a father, even when he was with his uncle, who accommodated him after his parent''s death. Yes, his uncle was kind, but his treatment towards him was more of an obligation as a family to an orphaned child. Yet, he understood. He did not grow up with them, and he couldn''t expect. Kindness and provisions for all his financial and educational needs were more than enough.


    However, he longed for the affection of this man before him. Yet, now that he was finally before him, asking for an apology and acknowledging him as his own, a complicated feeling roused up within him. All of a sudden, he was angry. All those hatred he had for this man in the past gripped him again. He took off his hands from his ears and placed it on his frail shoulders. The man looked down on his hands, and his eyes lit up with joy and hope, thinking he won his heart that easily. To his frustration, Andrew pushed him away, and he fell with his back on the floor in a loud thud.


    Joanna rushed forward and helped him to sit up. Her eyes widened in horror. "Uncle, are you alright?


    The man gave her a weak smile and a nod. "Don''t worry, I understand."


    Joanna then helped him sit back on the chair across her and asked after his expression calmed down. She knew Andrew''s rejection hurt him, but she also knew he expected this. Only that, she had not heard his side of the story.


    "Uncle, I am a psychologist. I want to help you in this matter as much as I want to help Andrew. He needs to resolve his grievances in the past before it will destroy him forever. I am willing to listen," Joanna tried her best to convince him to talk.


    She glanced at Andrew and saw him resumed to his previous position, his chin on both of his knees and hands on his ears. He directed his eyes at them, but if one would look closer, those were empty. Joanna''s heart broke once again upon seeing him that way, but having this man before her now, gave her the highest hope of his complete cure. All she needed was the final step.


    "My first love was a woman named Amalia. I thought she also loved me as much as I loved her, until one day, the news of her marriage to someone else became the talk of our place. I was shocked; never did I expect it would happen. We even planned to get married the following month before her bump would show. She was two months pregnant then..."


    _____


    "Leo, have you heard the news? Amalia is getting married to your best friend!" said Fernan, one of his cousins who ran to meet him as he climbed down from his horse. He just arrived from a neighboring district to help a priest in training the few selected young people for the church choir. The said priest was also the one who discovered his natural skill in music, so the latter trained him in the use of different kinds of musical instruments. The moment he mastered the task, he helped the priest in training young people for the church''s singing group.


    "Don''t make jokes like that, Fernan. It''s not funny at all."


    Fernan, who was still panting after running to meet him, felt upset. He sighed and spread out his hands, expressing his disgust upon his stubbornness. "If you think I''m making up stories, it''s up to you. I''m telling you this because I''m worried about you."


    Fernan then left without looking back, perhaps humiliated by his unbelief. No matter how Leo called him out, he wouldn''t listen. Throwing his travel bag at the main door of the house, he left and hurried to climb up into his colt, galloping his way toward Amalia''s place. Not long after, he could already see the porch of Amalia''s house, and to his shock, he saw in his very own eyes that Amalia was making out with his best friend, Raul.


    He jumped from his horse and strode towards them, kicking the chair that blocked his way. With a loud and angry voice, he interrupted the betraying couple in their lewd ministrations. "What does that mean, Amalia? Raul?"


    The startled couple separated instantly, and Amalia sprang up to her feet with a horrified expression. She turned pale for a moment but got defensive when Leo''s face started to look like an angry lion.  Just as he stepped closer to punch Raul in his place, Amalia jumped in their midst, preventing both from hurting each other.


    "How can you do this to me, Amalia?" confronted Leo, his lips quivering in a fury. He then turned toward Raul with a fierce gaze. "And you, Raul! I thought you are my best friend. How could you betray me?"


    Instead of cowering down for being caught, Raul faced him with his hands on his pocket and a smirk on his lips. Meeting Leo''s sharp gaze, he then laughed like a devil before his erring follower.


    "May the best man win, my friend. You lost her because you''re not good enough for her," sneered  Raul as he wrapped an arm around Amalia.


    "She''s pregnant with our child, Raul. I just want to let you know."


    Raul broke out once more into a devilish laughter. "How sure are you? She was already mine a long time ago. While you were there with your group of hopeless singers, she was with me in my cabin."


    Enraged by this revelation, Leo''s whole body quivered as he spoke further. He glared at Amalia and poked a finger in her face. "Now choose between the two of us, Amalia! If you confess right before us that you are just lying, then I''ll forgive you and forget everything. But if you choose this traitor, then I''m sorry. I''ll never take you back!"


    Amalia ran her eyes from Raul to Leo, and her eyes started to get red. Raul returned her gaze with one last menacing look before he stepped away to give them space. With the courage she quickly gathered from within, she dared to look at him in the eye.


    "Who do you think you are to scare me? I''m also sorry to tell you this. This child I am now carrying is not yours."

 Chapter 162 - Tell Me The Whole Truth

    "So, you were deceived about Andrew''s identity?" Joanna asked when he no longer continued his story. She then began to understand why Leo did not acknowledge him right away. Even if she had just met him, she could tell he was a good man.


    "There''s more, and it''s more horrible..." Leo replied, his lips pressed together into a weak smile. He looked at her for a while before his eyes hollowed out as he drifted back into his memories.


    Before Leo could start speaking, Andrew stood up and stared at him. "I hate you! Mark my word, I will not also allow your son to be happy."


    "Andrew!" came Joanna''s voice, and Andrew dropped back to the floor. He looked at her like an obedient sheep, and Joanna gave him a look that made him slouch his back into the wall.


    Joanna watched him until he pulled his knees together and locked his arms around it, placing his head on top afterward. She then turned to Leo and gestured for him to continue.


    _______


    "Amalia, tell me this is all a lie!"


    Amalia started to sniff as she couldn''t hold back anymore those tears she tried hard to suppress. She moved her eyes sideways and saw Raul looking at them from a distance. "You heard everything you need to know. You may now go away."


    Leo gripped her forearm tightly and tugged it, demanding to take her words back. Amalia''s tears escaped like waterfalls, and her chest began to rise and fall as she began to sob.


    "I''m not asking you to answer me with your tears, Amalia, I need to know the truth! When did you betray me, and why? And tell me honestly, who is the father of that child?" came Leo''s series of questions, in his want to know the truth all at once.


    "I have said everything. Raul was my secret high school sweetheart. When his ship picked up a fuel somewhere in Luzon, I went after him and stayed with him for a few days."


    Leo''s shoulders dropped, and his expression, a massive shock. "I thought you love me, Amalia. Why did you do this to me?" he asked, and his voice started to crack.


    "The answer is simple, Leo. I''m dying to leave this mountain. I want to live a better life and bask in the comfort of the city. You cannot give it to me. Your crops and your livestock couldn''t make my dreams come true, and your love for music and your group is my endless rival."


    The sense of inferiority struck him unprepared, and he was deeply humiliated. His eyes fell at Raul, and he saw him smirk. That scornful glow in his eyes blinded him with rage that he ran towards him like a wild beast and punched him until he gasped for breath.


    Amalia screamed for help until Fernan came over and separated the two. The latter already expected this trouble, so he followed Leo to Amalia''s place. Fernan thought of allowing a couple of minutes to pass by to give them privacy, only to realize this decision could have given way to a fatal disaster. Never did he anticipate that something worse than he imagined would happen.


    Using great force to pull Leo away from Raul, he glanced up at Amalia to help him pull Raul away. Their fight got so intense that separating them, also got him wounded. Only when he shouted at both of them in anger, did the two retreated to the sides.


    "Do you want to kill yourselves?'' Fernan roared in anger, shifting his gaze from one to the other.


    "They betrayed me, Fernan! Who in his right mind would be happy in this?" defended Leo while still catching his breath.


    Raul laughed hard in a mocking tone. His eyes bulged out in his ridicule. "I''m just taking back what''s mine from the beginning. You knew  I had set my eyes over Amalia from the very day she came into our school. Yet you dared to deceive me and lured her to yourself, instead of helping me."


    Leo sank back as the memory flashed back into his mind. He never intended it that way. They became seatmates and close friends on a block section for four years until their friendship bloomed into a special relationship. "I did not do it to provoke you. The feeling was mutual, and it flowed out naturally."


    "Really? That''s what you think"?'' Raul hissed, a contemptuous smile broke into his lips.


    Fernan sensed another offensive physical bout coming in so he dragged Leo with all his strength and forced him to climb into his horse. He did not leave until Leo was some meters away.


    Seated later on the bench under the Caimito tree in front of Leo''s house, the latter gathered his guts to open up the subject again. "How long have you known the truth about them?"


    "It''s been a while. I cannot exactly tell," Fernan answered in a nonchalant expression.


    "Amalia is about three-month pregnant. Do you think I am not the father as they both claimed?''


    "Who knows?" replied Fernan, shrugging his shoulders afterward, "Amalia''s parents are fond of Raul because he is among the few in our town who are successful in their dreamed carriers."


    _____


    A few days later, a postmaster came to Leo''s house. He handed him an envelope, telling him it was from their district captain. Leo gazed at the postmaster with a puzzled look, why would their district captain send him a letter? He slowly opened the sealed envelope, and his eyes widened in astonishment. It was a subpoena, demanding him to appear and explain himself before the local district court due to Raul''s complaints of physical assault. Not only that, he was charged with forced sex against Amalia.


    Leo''s fine hair stood up, and his face turned red in anger. It was only two months ago before he left, he and Amalia spent a day in their makeshift hut on a hill facing the ocean view. He still remembered the intimate moments they shared. He still recalled the careful way he made love to her, knowing that she already missed her period for a month already.


    "I''ll accept this job before we will announce our engagement," Leo told Amalia as he touched her lower abdomen.


    "I''m afraid it will be too late already, Leo. My parents will surely kill me if they are going to find out about my pregnancy."


    Leo ran his fingers through Amalia''s hair as he assured her. "I have already committed to this assignment, Amalia. We also need my stipend for our wedding preparation expenses. Don''t worry; your parent''s anger will just be short-lived because I will take responsibility."

 Chapter 163 - The Ordeal

    Leo quivered in anger as he held the piece of paper. He was not only betrayed but also accused of a crime he did not do. Never in his wild imagination could he portray the depth of Amalia''s wickedness. Never did he imagine that she would go through such length to throw him out of her life. He always adored and placed her on a pedestal, only to find she could do this horrible thing against him.


    "What happened next?" asked Joanna when Leo stopped talking.


    "I was put to shame..." Leo answered, and Joanna stared at him. He got lost in his thoughts and winced as scenes of painful memories flashed in his mind.c


    ______


    Fernan, Leo''s cousin, accompanied him when he appeared at the arraignment in their local court, where the district captain acted as the judge. Raul was already there with Amalia when they arrived. For a moment, Leo met the scornful eyes of Raul, killing him with his mocking expression even before the trial began. His eyes then fell on Amalia, who was sitting at a corner, and her eyes remained fixed on the ground. It looked like she was crying all night.


    Somehow, just by the look of her forlorn figure, Leo sensed something wrong going on behind. No matter how angry he was, a part of him believed that Amalia could never do this cruel thing against him.  Somehow, Leo still thought she truly loved him. Perhaps, he was only blinded by his deep affection for her that he again chose to linger on this idea, but he could not deceive his inner instinct.


    After both parties took their oath to tell nothing but the truth, Amalia started to cry. She tried to keep her voice as low as possible, but her emotions betrayed her. Her snifflings kept louder and louder until Raul gave her a warning gaze.


    "Amalia, can you describe what happened?" the voice of the captain rang in her ears, and she sprang up to her feet.


    "Cap-captain," she stuttered, her lips were visibly quivering.


    "I repeat, Miss Amalia, can you describe to us how this man assaulted you sexually?"


    Amalia''s knees trembled, and she could not dare to look at anyone, even to the captain. Leo squinted as he gave her his undivided attention, horrified by her audacity to tell a lie. To his horror, she opened her mouth, but as she started to talk, a sudden urge to cry swallowed all the lines she memorized in her mind.


    The captain started to become upset, and his restrained anger terrified Amalia further. "We were in our hut in the field...and ...we made love."


    "Amalia, we are here because you want to raise your complaints against Mr. Gonzaga for assaulting you sexually. It sounds like you were submitting to the act willingly. Tell us the full details."


    It took Amalia a couple of minutes to speak up until the raised tone of the captain scared her. She had already taken so much delay, and this made the captain get bored and irritated.


    "He tore up my clothes and slapped me until he succeeded despite my resistance..."


    "Describe it in detail, which came first and what happened next," the captain''s voice jolted her from her seat. How she wished she could disappear.


    "He kissed me hungrily, and as he ran his hands over my body, I resisted. I cannot allow him to do that, but he slapped me and tore off my clothes. He then forced himself in me," narrated Amalia in between his sobs. The people were confused. Was Amalia crying because she didn''t want to make a false accusation against him, or was she crying because she narrated a traumatic experience?


    Leo shuddered in anger and humiliation upon hearing her. How could she afford to wave those lies when, at times, she even initiated it with him? They were together for several years already and were enjoying the deed for a long time. He looked around, and his eyes fell on Raul. The smirk on his face as he held his gaze was enough to tell him that Raul was manipulating Amalia to go against him.


    The testimonies of the witnesses against Leo made him receive his verdict. In his time, their local court had their own set of punishments for all who were found guilty of doing any crime. Those who were guilty of sexual assaults were punished by having them go around the town on parade with nothing on. Before the execution, the captain''s messengers announced it so that the people would swarm the event, and they could be the spectators and witnesses of the guilty''s shame and nakedness. After this execution, the plaintiff could decide whether or not to pursue his complaints on the higher court.


    The local authority detained Leo in their district jail until the day he would take the punishment. No one was allowed to visit him except his immediate family. His parents were furious and even swore to avenge for him, but he begged not to. He instead decided to leave the place and stay forever in their faraway place in Molave, if Amalia would no longer bring the case to the higher court. Little did Leo know that if Amalia made the situation worse, his parents would not hesitate to take the matter into their hands. They knew their son better than anyone else, and they knew the pure intentions of his heart.


    The day came and Leo stood naked in a cart drawn by a horse. His hands were bound at his back and his full nudity was exposed to the public. In his forehead was a paper crown printed with, "I am a rapist". He stood there for hours as they went around the town, enduring the scorching heat of the sun. Most of all, he stood there listening to the jeerings,  the curses and the mockery of the crowd. Others looked at his body and made fun of him. There were even some who jumped into the cart and pulled or squeezed his manhood, shaming him further with their cruelties.


    From the very beginning of his confession, Leo acted strong but as he recalled this shaming ordeal, he broke into a sob. He covered his face with his hands as his shoulders moved until he felt a pair of arms wrapped around him from his back.

 Chapter 164 - Its Not Too Late Yet

    Looking up, Leo saw the face of Ajie, drawn with an immense pity for him. His eyes glistened with tears, and with the act of sympathy he was receiving at the moment, Leo sobbed louder.


    "How much do you hear," Leo asked Ajie without looking at him, brushing away the stubborn tears from his eyes. It had been a long while since he cried, though there were many reasons for him to be sad and worried.


    "Everything," Ajie replied, hugging him closer.


    "I hope you understand," Leo replied with a sad smile as he reached out to cover Ajie''s hands, which were locked next to his chest.


    "I am so sorry that it happened, Tay," Ajie said, throwing a glance afterward at the direction of Andrew, "let''s make everything right."


    Leo lifted his eyes at Joanna, who was watching them with a tender expression. He gave her a weak smile, and Joanna held the hand he rested at the table.


    "Enough for this day, uncle. I''ll keep in touch."


    Leo stood up and turned to Andrew, who remained crouching at the corner. His hands were still on both of his ears, and his eyes were tightly closed. Leo stepped forward and patted his shoulders, "I''m sorry, son. I hope someday you can go home with us."


    Andrew did not make any slight movement, but Leo knew that he heard him. He glanced back at Joanna over his shoulders, and the latter nodded, signifying that it was alright for them to leave. Ajie placed his arms across Leo''s shoulders, and he brought him to the deck. He wanted to talk to him,


    The waves were about four feet high, rolling and slapping at both sides, distant of the vessel. Despite the loud sound of the engine and the splashing of the waves, the vast stretch of the sea and the dark, distant horizon still displayed a serene atmosphere.


    Placing both their hands on the railings, they gazed at the sprawling sea bed and inhaled the crisp air that slapped their faces as it rushed against the direction of the ship.


    "Tay, do you think Andrew is your son?" Ajie made the first question to break the silence.


    "When I first saw the child in school, I know he was mine, but Raul warned me. He told me I should stay away from his family, or else something worse will happen to me."


    Ajie frowned as he listened, how could Raul be so cruel?


    "Tay, what is the reason for his anger towards you? Is it only because of Amalia?"


    "It was a family dispute. His family already had a grudge towards us because of a property. They claimed that it was spring near the school which your grandparents sold to a foreigner was theirs.  Their anger intensified when the property became a tourist spot."


    Ajie gaped at the revelation; the hot spring indeed produced a considerable income. If Raul''s family succeeded in taking it away from them, it would have given them a vast fortune.


    "Not only that," Leo continued, "when they eloped, Raul passed around a lie, telling them that they only escaped because of my threat."


    Ajie flushed because of anger, and fine tremors ran throughout his flesh. He couldn''t imagine his father suffered all these. He could neither imagine what would he do if he were in his place.


    "Tay, perhaps, Andrew knew the truth. That''s why he harbored anger at us," Ajie said, thinking back on the incidents where Andrew threw his indirect revenge against him.


    "That''s what I want to know."


    Leo''s thoughts drifted back to the moment when he watched Andrew played his piece. His music prowess was something he must have inherited from him. Ajie may sing well, but Andrew could play different musical instruments.


    "His talent in music is also an indication that he is my son, but my instinct is stronger than any proof."


    Ajie nodded. It was something he could never argue. He looked into his father''s eyes, and for the first time, he noticed the similarities of some of his and Andrew''s features.


    "I am worried about his attitude," Leo said, his eyes reflected shadows of sadness.


    Ajie tapped his shoulder, assuring him that he understood and that he would be with him throughout the process of their reconciliation.


    "Tay, it''s not too late yet. Perhaps, Andrew''s childhood was not a happy one."


    "I guess."


    Leo returned to their cabin and found Issa sitting on the bed, obviously waiting for him. He had been away for too long already, and he did inform her where he went. She must have been worrying already. For a moment, she squinted as she stared at him sharply and asked, "What happened?"


    "I saw him." His answer was soft, and Issa further felt something was troubling him.


    Leo confessed about that shameful chapter of his life the night he proposed to marry him. In that way, she still had a chance to change her decision. He suffered too much emotional torment already, and he could not accept further reminders and blame from her in the future.  If a woman would take him in marriage, she should also accept his past.


    After Issa promised to accept him as he was, he never brought up the topic again. He did not even tell her that Andrew''s grandparents asked him for the custody of their grandson. They were already old and sick to take care of a young child. Yet, Leo suspected that the real reason behind was because the elderlies knew that he was Andrew''s biological father.


    "Who?"


    "Amalia''s son."


    "Leo, why do you look like you''re bearing the weight of the world in your shoulders? Tell me, is he your son?"


    Leo gave her a weak smile. "Issa, would you give him a chance to be my son?"


    Issa stood up and pulled him to sit down by her side. Ever since they got married, she could never remember a time where he got worried about the child. Issa did not even know that Andrew and Ajie went to the same school. She was a typical housewife. She did the household chores and tended the garden, but she seldom went out to chat with her neighbors. While they lived in an isolated place, she could still go down and spend time with her acquaintances whenever she wants.


    "Whoever is a part of you is also a part of me."

 Chapter 165 - Someones Pawn

    Leo enclosed his wife in a warm embrace, feeling grateful for being blessed with an understanding wife despite the shame and frustration he experienced. She was a supportive wife to him and a good mother to Ajie, something he would always be grateful for.


    "It won''t be easy, Issa. Andrew is suffering from a stress disorder that Joanna referred to as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder."


    Issa gave him a puzzled look. She could not understand what it exactly meant, but according to what she heard, it is a type of mental disorder. As if Leo had read her thoughts, he started explaining it to her.


    "It is a type of mental condition developed after a terrifying or dangerous event like an accident, sexual assault, and domestic violence. The affected person often relives the traumatic events through nightmares and flashbacks, and these will trigger his anxiety, even affecting his daily activities."


    Leo then explained how he and Cherry''s reappearance triggered his anxiety. He was fine for a long time already after Joanna managed him, but after meeting Cherry again, he was back to being anxious and guilty. Cherry''s effort to free themselves emotionally restored his vigor and energy. Yet after seeing Leo that night, he suddenly lost his strength and slumped on the floor like he was unaware of the things going on around him.


    "Poor child, there is only one explanation for that. Raul perhaps maltreated him because he probably knew that he is your son."


    "I am also thinking about that."


    Leo looked around and saw that all their things were already in suitcases. Issa had already prepared ahead for their early flight a few hours later. Issa followed his eyes and before Leo could speak again, she held his upper arm and spoke first. "I''ll unpack it."


    Leo raised a brow, wondering what she meant.


    "Leo, your son is here. He needs you and your time for his recovery."


    Leo''s face gloomed and unshed tears glistened in his eyes. The word ''son'' hit him deep within and he became guilty. He rubbed his eyes, and a sad smile twisted in his lips.


    "Issa, how can I thank you enough?"


    Early in the morning, the whole family gathered for breakfast before setting out to the airport. Ryan and Cherry joined them also. Hayri and Jane sat beside each other, looking sleepy. They spent the whole night at a coffee shop, chatting until it was time to leave.


    "We won''t be joining you," Leo announced.


    All eyes fell at him in a questioning gaze.


    "Andrew''s condition is not improving. We want to help him."


    Cherry looked up, surprised, and wondering. "What happened, uncle?"


    "He got anxious again when he saw me?" came Leo''s soft reply.


    "Why?" everyone chorused their question.


    Leo ran his eyes over all of them before he answered. "Perhaps because he knows I was his father a long time ago."


    "What?" all of them exclaimed their surprise almost together.


    Leo started narrating his summed up story about him and Amalia. In the end, everyone agreed on their decision to stay. Cherry''s heart sank, but she knew she could no longer interfere. There was Joanna in his life already. Even if she could no longer accept him back as a lover if ever a chance would open up, she still wanted to help in any way she could. A sense of empathy engulfed her, Andrew''s situation, she could relate well to her state of depression. She realized one thing, she had truly forgiven him.


    "I''m sorry, uncle," said Ryan as he suddenly took a step forward and bowed down to apologize.


    Surprised, everyone, including Leo, lifted their heads and looked at Ryan.


    "What do you mean?" Leo finally found his word and asked.


    "I''m sorry for my wrong accusations against Andrew."


    Leo smiled, "It''s alright. His anger at Ajie makes him the first suspect."


    Ryan nodded; his expression seemed to hold brilliant ideas. "Thanks for understanding, uncle. But we have to be careful. Someone may have known about your relationship with him and use him as a pawn for his revenge."


    Hayri stepped in, his arm still clinging over Jane''s shoulders. "Ryan, thank you. I hope you can help us figure out who is behind this. What we don''t understand yet is, who among us is the target?"


    The trip to the airport took everyone on sealed lips. They all got engrossed in thinking; if not Andrew, who is their actual enemy? Why did he use Chloe as a warning that a bigger attack was coming on? If their intention for abducting were only about financial needs, they would not have released Chloe unharmed. The small amount of chloroform in her blood was not significant to an intention to kill and keep the child. Ryan was right; it was an indirect revelation that someone wanted to start a  war with them.


    After checking in, Hayri and Ryan bid goodbye to all of them. Hayri had to go back to Istanbul while Ryan decided to go back to his main base in UAE.


    "Dear, please think about moving your main office closer to our home," Mr. Dioko said after hugging his son.


    "Yes, dad. Now that we are seeing trouble coming our way, I want to stay closer to you."


    "That''s good. You can always hire personnel to do the work for you. Anyway, you can always visit the site anytime you want."


    "That''s right, dad," Hayri agreed.


    Hayri then hugged the rest first, before he approached Allie and Ajie. He bent down to hug Chloe tight first before he looked and held Ajie''s gaze. "Take extra care for your family. Loved ones first before business."


    Ajie smiled and nodded, hugging him the next moment. A complicated emotion rose in Allie''s heart. The scene was a bit awkward. She closed her eyes for a second and took a deep, slow breath, hoping that one day soon, they would adapt to their new role.


    "My dear, always remember there''s a baby inside. Don''t stress too much. The men around you are all experienced men in handling troubles," Hayri said as he turned to her.


    As a sudden impulse wrapped up her heart to express her complicated emotions, she threw herself at him and Hayri received her in a tight embrace.


    "Be careful always," she said; those were the only words she could think to say in front of her whole family.


    "Always, I promise."

 Chapter 166 - Women Are Complicated

    Tired after the trip, they all decided to go directly to their homes to rest. Cherry insisted on staying at a hotel closest to Allie''s house.


    Allie and Ajie sent Mr. Dioko to his home first since he was alone while Jane and the Lopez couple went home on their own. Both the elderlies invited Allie and Ajie to live with them in their homes, but Allie kindly rejected it. She always had it in mind; that couples should live on their own, away from the influence of their parents.


    "Now that we are still investigating who is after us,  I think we should stay in one place for close monitoring," Mr. Lopez suggested.


    "As much as I also want you to be with me, I think you should be with Angelo because I will always be traveling. Or, you may now start building your new home in the property I am giving you."


    These were the statements that lingered in Allie''s mind as they drove home. Their family put the reality of their marriage annulment aside, or perhaps, forgot it already. Allie felt the dilemma of their current situation. Is she going to accept Ajie''s proposal for another wedding, or would she do the marriage papers behind the public''s knowledge? She knew she could no longer drive Ajie away, now that she was pregnant with their second child, and for the fact that Hayri was her biological brother.


    After a hot shower and fresh change of clothes for her and Chloe, Allie went inside the room to sleep. Ajie followed and lay down beside her after his bath.


    "You may leave and return to your apartment without waking me up," Allie said when he felt his arms caged her to an embrace.


    Ajie froze. He thought Allie had already accepted him back as a husband and father to her children. After a while of thinking about how to react, he pulled her tighter to himself.


    "It''s our apartment, not only mine. We will go there together."


    With her back facing him, she smiled, confident that he could not see her reaction. "Jie, why not enjoy your freedom from me? Try looking around, who knows you''ll find someone better than me?"


    "Shut up. Are pregnant women nonsense?"


    "Who said?" she replied, trying to hold down her urge to laugh.


    "I don''t want my freedom. Let''s arrange for our wedding as soon as possible." Ajie sounded sincere, and Allie almost gave in.


    "I don''t like the idea of marrying the same man for the second time. I might agree on the renewal of marriage vows but not on a second wedding."


    Ajie found himself lost for words. He believed in the sanctity of marriage and the lifetime commitment it entailed, but he broke it out of anger and jealousy. His guilt and remorse haunted him again, and a pang of guilt pressed his heart once more. He ran his eyes over Allie''s fragile built in his arms, with a shattered heart. How he wished Allie would stop reminding him of his mistake.


    "I''m sorry about that. I was not with you during your first pregnancy, and I don''t want it to happen again. So if you won''t marry me again, don''t drive me away."


    Allie turned on her other side to face him, and she burrowed her face in his chest without replying. She coiled an arm around him and in the next moment, fell asleep. Looking down at her, Ajie sighed and murmured to himself, "women are indeed complicated."


    Watching her dozing off, she called up Jane. When the latter picked up, he asked instantly, "Jane, do pregnant women sometimes become unreasonable?"


    Jane chuckled out before she replied, "Why? What happened?"


    "This woman here is speaking nonsense! I hope she does not mean what she says," he grumbled. His thoughts flew back to how he tried to win her again.


    Jane laughed again. "Allyza''s mood may be changing because of hormonal changes brought about by pregnancy. So, you must stretch out your patience and understanding."


    "I see,"  answered Ajie, and before he ended the call, he said, "Jane, I need your help over something."


    "Sure, what is it?"


    "I''ll talk to you later."


    Allie woke up the next day already. Aside from being pregnant, the stress of Chloe''s loss, Hayri''s revelation, Cherry''s and Andrew''s meeting, and the travel drained all her strength. Perhaps, her body needed those long hours of rest to replenish her energy wastage. Probably, she needed the touch of home to put her into a healing rest.


    She looked around and saw that the other side of the bed was already empty. She looked up at the wall clock, and it pointed to three in the afternoon of the next day. She sat up abruptly, feeling guilty of sleeping too and long.


    When she went down, she heard voices as if people were talking outside. She also heard footsteps like people are rushing to and fro. Her heartbeats raced; there must be an ongoing commotion.  Could it be about Chloe again? How could she sleep so long when her daughter is in danger?


    Just as she was about to go out, the door opened from outside. To her sense of relief, Ajie''s expression was calm and happy. Her brows pulled together when she noticed that he was on a business attire without the coat on. She was about to ask, but Ajie''s voice cut her thoughts, and her question flew away unanswered.


    "Allie," he greeted, then he came forward and gave a quick smack on her lips.


    "Jie, what''s the commotion outside?" she squinted, trying to incline her hear to listen further.


    "Nothing, those are just our parents chatting with some friends."


    "They have friends coming over, also?"


    "Yes, a few of them."


    Ajie then placed an arm around her shoulders as he pulled her back upstairs. "Take a shower and change into a formal dress."


    Allie nodded, and Ajie opened the bathroom door for her. After ten minutes, Jia came out, and Ajie was no longer around. Her eyes fell on the cream-colored dress laid out on the bed. A box of shoes was also on its side and smaller boxes on the other side. Curious, she walked over to the bed and bent over to touch the dress. The cut was simple but elegant. Running her fingers at the company''s logo, she knew it was one of the most famous brands. Needless to ask, she knew it was hers.


    She hurried to put it on. If their parents were outside, perhaps, they were going somewhere. A party, maybe?

 Chapter 167 - The Box

    Allie was facing the full-sized mirror when she saw the door opened, revealing Ajie in tie and coat Wondering where they were going, she raised an eyebrow as she glanced at him. He walked towards her and hugged him from behind, resting his chin on her shoulders.


    "You look so beautiful," he said, planting a kiss at the top of her ear.


    Covering his interlaced hands in front of her, she replied as she looked up to him, "Thank you. Where are we going?"


    Ajie released her, held her hand, and walked her to the window. He opened the curtain, and as Allie looked down, she saw her family gathering at the garden at the side of their house. They sat at a long table covered in white with floral centerpieces. At the side, were smaller tables filled with chafing dishes and another round table with a three-layer cake.


    "What''s going on? Have I slept too long to be unaware of what''s happening around?"


    Without replying, Ajie pulled her again to an embrace and kissed her afterward. He then held her hand back and led her out of the house. Just as they stepped out of the main entrance, a car pulled out in front of the house, and to Allie''s surprise, Hayri stepped down with a frown.


    Hayri strode towards them and hollered, "You, fool! You should pay for making my travel endless."


    Gaping at his disarrayed expression, Allie met and kissed him, "What''s happening? Why are you here?"


    Hayri looked up with a questioning gaze at Ajie, and instead of answering, a soft chuckle came out from his lips. Before any of the three could speak up, the sound of Jane''s giggling interrupted them. They all turned to her, and she winked at Ajie before approaching Hayri to greet him with a hug and kiss.


    "Let''s go!" Jane said, pulling Hayri towards the garden, leaving him and Allie''s questions unanswered.


    As the three reached their waiting parents, Allie''s gaze fell at the same judge who officiated her and Ajie''s wedding before. Their eyes locked for a moment before she gave him a smile and a nod. To her surprise, Atty. Manloza was also there, smiling right beside him. Needless to ask, Allie realized that she was his husband.


    The judge then stood up, gathering all eyes towards them.


    "Adrian, Allyza, shall we start?"


    "Start...," Allie swallowed her question as Ajie coiled an arm around her neck and led her in front, facing the judge.


    Judge Manloza looked at them right away and started his litany. "Six years ago, I pronounced you as husband and wife. A few months ago, I approved the nullity of your marriage, and here am I now, tasked to bind you again."


    Allie''s eyes darted between the judge and Ajie, absorbing the shock of this event into her system. She was just taking a long sleep, only to wake up for her wedding?


    "Adrian, Allyza, God originally designed marriage as a lifetime commitment. You can''t just say I''m bored with this union. You can''t just say she or he fails my expectations, so I''m going to end this up. And you can''t just say, I am angry, and I think I''ll hate you forever, so let''s better end this."


    Without waiting for anyone''s reaction, he went ahead. "Adrian, Allyza,  do you both promise to stay together for all times, in joy and trials, in anger and peace? Do you both promise to solve your marital issues by talking it out first and not in deciding to break your union right away? Do you both promise to be each other''s strength and shield against the trials of this life? Do you promise to be honest with each other and make plans together?"


    Allie knew that the judge hit them right where they went wrong, and she couldn''t help herself from laughing out at its irony. Ajie smiled as well, though it couldn''t hide the sense of shame and guilt he felt inside. They both nodded to the judge questions, taking to the heart the meaning of each vow they committed.


    Allie completely forgot that Ajie did not give her a chance to prepare her mind on this. How could she be angry when she, herself, desired to build her home again? How could she deny Ajie''s effort to bring them back to their once broken home? The obstacles were all gone, making their paths clear towards each other.


    In a few minutes, the ceremony commenced, proclaiming them back legally as husband and wife. Everyone stood up and congratulated them, including Hayri, who grumbled for the unplanned decision, and for making him fly back to the Philippines just as he reached the airport.


    "If only you''re not special in my heart, I would not kill myself of fatigue just to attend your wedding!" Hayri murmured as he pulled Allie close for a hug.


    Allie got stunned; she had no idea about this discomfort just for this event to push through. She had yet to ask Ajie on what prompted him for that whirlwind wedding. Seeing the guilt imprinted in her face, Hayri felt guilty, and he chuckled to console her.


    "But if you did not inform me, I would also be humiliated, and you would no longer see me. "


    "You''re so confusing!" Allie pouted at Hayri''s justification. What really was his stand?


    "It''s all my fault. I couldn''t wait another day to make everything legal between us. Allie doesn''t want a public wedding so..." Ajie didn''t finish anymore. He knew everyone understood.


    "Not only that, you cheated. While Allyza was asleep, you gave me the task to become a superwoman," Jane said, exposing their secret.


    While they were confronting merrily, a motorbike rider stopped at the entrance. He alighted from the vehicle then pulled out a box from his compartment. He then walked towards the guard and handed the box.


    "Guard, this is for Mr.& Mrs. Adrian James Lopez."


    The guard accepted the box and with a nod of approval from Ajie, he opened it. To everyone''s surprise, the box opened to another black box.

 Chapter 168 - Fake Black Diamond

    The three gathered around closer, curious, and a bit nervous at the significance of the color of the box. The guard, who also got hesitant, looked up and moved his eyes at every one of them before proceeding. With Ajie''s approval again, he lifted the box out and began tearing the sheets. The guard''s frequent looking up at all of them sent shivers to their spines, and Allie almost had him stop and throw the gift away.


    "No, we should take a look at it," Hayri said, sensing Allie''s fear.


    He then instructed her and Jane to go away, in case the content was something explosive. The two ladies immediately ran to the garden, alerting the rest of what was happening. Everyone stood up, and with knees trembling, they watched until the guard finished the unwrapping.


    To everyone''s surprise, the guard raised his hand and revealed a set of shining, black diamond ring. Hayri and Ajie took turns in inspecting it, and both frowned as they got lost in their thoughts. They picked up the sender''s note, but nothing was there except for the "happy wedding" greeting printed on the card.


    "Adrian, I am not comfortable that you stay in this house. Move as soon as possible to Uncle Angelo''s place until your family''s safety is guaranteed. In this way, you can also give auntie and uncle a chance to make up for those times you were away from them."


    Ajie nodded with creased brows, obviously thinking who was holding a dispute against them and why. The fact that the sender sent on an important day, it could mean the enemy knew their activities. However, he could only point it out to Andrew. His parents knew about the event today because he apologized for not giving them a chance to attend his wedding. Perhaps, they relayed it either to Joanna or to Andrew himself.


    "I''m afraid of what Ryan said about Andrew as a pawn might be true after all," Ajie said, looking at Hayri, who looked bothered as well.


    "Let''s send someone to investigate who is handling him and his band."


    "Sounds a good idea," Ajie agreed, but deep in his heart, he was still doubting about Andrew''s capability to do that, granting his anxiety attack lately.


    Still lost in thoughts, Ajie jolted back to reality when Hayri tugged his arm and said, "Come, let''s not spoil the event. Let''s set it aside for now."


    When the two men returned to the table, everyone met them with their questioning gazes, and soon their questions came in simultaneously.


    "Who''s the sender? Is it written on the card?'' Cherry stood up subconsciously, stressing out her question with her widened eyes.


    "No."


    "Is that a set of black diamond rings?" Mrs. Lopez seconded, validating her guess.


    Jane reached out to pick up the small box Ajie placed on the top of the table. She raised it to an eye level and voiced out her thoughts. "I think these are real, black diamond rings."


    "Why do you think the sender chooses black, and why should it be a ring?" Mr. Lopez shared his curiosity, as well.


    Hayri looked at Allie and frowned. "If we take Andrew out of this, he should be someone that one of you may have crossed. Since the warning was sent first to Chloe and now to both of you, it suggests that one of you must be the target."


    Staring at Hayri and wondering what he meant, Allie asked, "What do you mean?"


    "Dear, tell us, is there someone else pursuing you while we were in Tuzla?"


    "What?" Allie replied instantly in shock, unprepared for the unexpected direction of the investigation. Seeing her surprised look, Hayri chuckled and cleared out her throat afterward.


    "What I mean, dear, is that I am thinking that a frustrated suitor can also do this."


    Allie shook her head, somewhat humiliated for being accused of hiding something. Before she could speak out her thoughts, Cherry butted in.


    "No one dared to show such intention with your scary eyes, you know," Cherry began stating her opinion but soon stopped when Jane broke out laughing. Drawn by her contagious bout of laughter,  everyone soon joined in, and Ajie fidgetted in his seat. Allie stiffened as well, but she was better than Ajie in pretending a smile.


    "Crazy!" Hayri exclaimed while glaring at Cherry, but his sharp eyes prompted Cherry to roll out laughing.


    When their laughter finally ebbed down, Hayri scratched his head and gestured for Cherry to continue.


    "If you ask for my opinion, I am suspecting that he must be someone who also wanted to buy the shares of Rough Seas. Since you intervened, he does not get the chance to grow as large as we are now."


    Everyone nodded. Cherry had a good point.


    "But why does he seem to know our family activities?" Mrs. Lopez asked.


    "Someone is sent to monitor you," Atty. Manloza shared her thoughts for the first time. They all glanced at her and her husband, whom they forgot momentarily because of the commotion.


    "That''s right, so you need to be careful," Judge Manloza seconded with a rhythmic nod of his head.


    As everyone fell silent, Allie, who sank in her seat due to the awkward scene, spoke out. "Aren''t we exaggerating? What if this is just a plain gift? To think, these are real diamonds. Why spend big if the intention is revenge?"


    "May I see the rings? One of our businesses is jewelry," Atty. Manloza said, and Ajie handed the set right away.


    Atty. Manloza opened her bag and pulled out a magnifying glass. "One of the ways to tell if a diamond is real or fake is to check out for imperfections in it. If you don''t see any, then it''s fake."


    Everyone gaped at the information as they watched her flip over the rings under the thick lens. Without looking at them, Atty. Manloza pulled out something in her bag. It looked like a small stick like a portable penlight, and once she pushed a button to turn it on, it emitted a black light. She then focused the light on the rings, and it reflected green light.


    "So, this is fake."

 Chapter 169 - On Our First List

    Everyone gaped as they gazed at the green fluorescence reflecting against the black light as Atty. Manloza aimed the pen against the set of black diamond rings. The test result convinced everyone that the gift was another indirect announcement that someone was plotting against them.


    "The sender choose black because it implies sadness, failure, sorrow, and death while the ring signifies bond and union like marriages. So the hidden message could mean that the avenger is setting out to destroy your marriage," explained Judge Manloza as he joined them in their emotional disturbance.


    "Dear," Hayri said, turning his head to Allie, "did Andrew court you back then?"


    Allie got startled with the question, unprepared for the sudden shift of their brainstorming. She moved her eyes between Ajie and Hayri, fidgetting about the thought that Cherry was also listening, aside from the fact that such a topic was awkward for all of them. Seeing her discomfort, Ajie cleared his throat and answered on her behalf.


    "He started giving her flowers and invited her for dinners, but he never got the courage to confess because, in the first place, he was only pretending. His sole intention was to take revenge against me."


    Hayri pulled his brows together, giving it a quick, deep thought before he shared his opinion. "If he did it before, there no reason he won''t do it these days."


    Cherry raised her voice to share her idea, as well, prompting everyone to look at her. "While we can''t take Andrew out of this, I think we should also dig deeper and wider to rule out who could be behind this. If Andrew indeed has nothing to do with this, then we don''t want to set the real culprit free."


    "Therefore, I realize, first love never dies," Hayri replied, looking at her sideways. When Cherry started to glare at him, he burst out into a peal of laughter, tossing his head back as he giggled. Feeling embarrassed, Cherry rolled out a table napkin and threw it out to him, making him laugh harder. Carried away by the momentum of their laughter, everyone laughed as well, worsening Cherry''s embarrassment.


    "Of course, Che, we will look into all possibilities," Jane assured her as she saw her turning red in shame.


    "You''re right," Allie managed to comfort her as well, though she was just recovering from her discomfort.


    Mr. Lopez took a turn in the table. He authoritatively addressed everyone. "Let''s set aside that one at another time. Today is such an important day to waste. Let''s give our blessings to the couple. Anyway, I already have someone do the investigation."


    "I also have someone do a separate investigation. Two is always better than one," said Mr. Dioko, who kept his silence during the peak of the tension.


    Allie just listened and thought to herself, "Then it''s going to be three because I''ll have Dino handle this separately."


    After a long while, Judge and Atty. Manloza asked to leave ahead. Ajie and Allie walked them out to their car and stayed until they settled comfortably inside. Before Atty. Manloza rolled up the window on her side, she called out and smiled, "Looking forward to your big wedding."


    "It''s on our first list. We''ll have you informed," Ajie replied with a grin as he hooked an arm around Allie''s waist. Allie just smiled and nodded politely, saying nothing further to delay them.


    The following day, Ajie considered the suggestion of Hayri and his family moved in to live with the Lopez''s for their safety. Mrs. Lopez beamed with happiness, her wish to gather her family was finally fulfilled. A child in her home added to her excitement, and she started to become her tutor.


    Mary and Sam did not go with them since, as they said, they were not the target of revenge and that they could always visit them if they want. They also wanted to give the Lopez couple a chance to do the parenting they missed for Ajie.


    Mr.& Mrs. Lopez held a special dinner on their first night, a thanksgiving to the Almighty for giving them a chance to gather their family again. Ajie was already married when they found him, and so he was already independent and was not expected to stay with them.


    "Ajie, Allie, we will be the one to send and fetch Chloe from school so you could focus on your business," Mr. Lopez said as they gathered around the dining table.


    Jane chuckled but protested afterward, "It''s not fair, dad. You are taking Ajie and Allie''s role as parents. You are not also giving me a chance to bond with my niece."


    "You''re right, dear," Mrs. Lopez replied in a sullen look, " so it means we have to make a schedule to accommodate all of us."


    Ajie and Allie laughed out loud; their hearts leaped with inexplicable joy for unexpectedly gaining a new family.


    ________


    Meanwhile, a call went through, jolting Joey to his senses. His heart raced, afraid that the new order would be again aimed at the innocent child he had temporarily abducted days ago.


    "Sir."


    "Joey, you need to go back to Cebu and wait for my orders there."


    "Got it, sir."


    Joey packed his things like a bolt of lightning and booked the next flight to Cebu. He wanted to reach the place before he would be occupied with the new task. It had been a while since he last visited his daughter. Ever since he gave his commitment to this boss, he left her under the care of his unmarried sister. She already had recovered well, and her physical status no longer showed any trace of those horrible hospital and rehabilitation days.


    A few hours later, Joey found himself at the information desk of a paint factory. He looked straight in the eyes of the receptionist and said, "Miss, I would like to talk to Miss Shiela Ferrer. My name is Joey."


    The receptionist felt hesitant but she still managed a polite smile. She opened the chat app and sent a message to Shiela. "Miss Shiela, somebody here wants to see you."


    "Who?'' came Shiela''s reply.


    "A man in his fifties, I think. He said his name is Joey."


    "Please lead him here."


    The receptionist led Joey to an office on the second floor right away and as soon his head popped on the door, Shiela came running to meet him with a squeal.


    "You look so happy, my dear," Joey commented after giving his daughter a hug.


    "Yes, Pa. I just signed a contract as one of the paint suppliers of Rough Seas Marine Supplies and Equipments."

 Chapter 170 - Shiela

    "What do you mean?" he asked, chuckling, not fully understanding where her happiness came from. While he understood that closing a deal with a big client was a success for someone who just started a new company, her excitement seemed more than what he expected from her.


    "Pa, Rough Seas is a promising and stable company. It already covers many countries in Europe and some states in the USA. I have also learned lately, that they are also expanding in UAE. Can you imagine my company''s stability for the whole period we are connected to them?"


    "Congratulations, dear. You do your job very well," Joey said, patting her head in admiration for her daughter.


    He may not understand the whole concept of her business, but what he could only share was her excitement and the pride of having a brilliant and successful daughter. His sacrifice and effort paid off. She graduated with the highest honors and earned her first job at a prestigious company. Her career allowed her to meet old and new investors until she met the three of them who agreed to venture out into a company of their own.


    "It''s because of you. How can I invest in this business if it were not because of you?"


    Joey replied with just a smile and a pat on her head. What she said was true. His boss was generous. Every time he did his job, he rewarded him with a massive sum of money. Being thrifty himself and not fond of buying anything for himself, his allotted budget for his expenses added up to his savings for years. When Shiela needed the budget to start the business, he only borrowed from his boss one-third of the required amount for her share.


    "Just keep up the good work, dear. Your success is my happiness. You''re all that I have in this world, after all."


    Shiela hugged him teary-eyed. Though he never answered her question about how he got the means to provide her medical needs, she knew her father made a great sacrifice. Her aunt would often recall how he cried hard when it happened and how many people did he asked for help.


    "How''s your health?" Joey asked, but not before he gave her a thorough eye inspection, taking in the glow of her skin and the change of her weight.


    "I''m fine a long time ago already, Pa. Stop worrying about me, okay? How about you?"


    Joey chuckled before he spoke out. She was right; she already looked healthy and more beautiful as the days went by. Almost all her physical features resembled her late mother, who died when she gave birth to her due to eclampsia.


    "I''m fine, only that I would remain away most of the time."


    "Pa, tell me honestly. Why are you always aways traveling?" Shiela could no longer hold back her curiosity. Ever since she was sick, her father no longer stayed longer than a week.


    "Dear, I borrowed money from a businessman when you were sick. He makes me his assistant, so wherever he travels, I must be there also. Don''t worry. I am in good hands. I''ll drop by every time we are in this country."


    After a few more minutes of conversation, Joey left. He gazed at the facade of the building for a long time before he walked away. Whatever may happen, at least he could go without having to worry for her daughter. Besides, she''s already old enough to support herself.


    Shiela looked out on the window and watched the retreating figure of her father. Until now, she could never gather the courage to tell him about what happened eight years ago. He sacrificed a lot for her, but she returned it with disgrace.


    Her thoughts flew back to the day when she fell in love with a schoolmate in college. They were already in the second semester of their last year in college when he went out with him on a date. She was staying in a student boarding house in the city, so she was free whatever she wanted to do and wherever she wanted to go.


    "Thanks for inviting me, Neil," Shiela said after they went out of a movie theatre. The story was so moving, and she felt it was the best movie she had ever watched.


    "You''re welcome, but If it''s alright with you, I want us to eat dinner together."


    Shiela''s eyes lit up with love and happiness, especially when Neil placed an arm around her waist. He was the talk of the university and to be acknowledged as his girlfriend, meant pride and envy from many girls who did everything just to spend time with him.


    "Neil, the best place I want to go to is always the place where I can be with you."


    "Same here, Shie," answered Niel as he looked into her eyes tenderly.


    The next thing Shiela knew was that they were already inside a hotel room and that Neil ordered a lot of food for them.


    "We can watch more movies while we eat," he said while Shiela stood gazing at the wide bed covered with white-and-cream sheets.


    Just as he told her, he turned on the TV set and chose the title of a movie where most of the girls loved. Drawn into the story, Shiela no longer cared that she already lied down with him in the bed with her back on the headboard.


    As the scene got intimate, she got startled when Neil lifted her chin and claimed her lips. It was a light brush at first, but seeing she did not resist, Neil claimed her lips deeper into a French kiss. Overwhelmed by her deep feelings for him and the flattering sensation of being kissed by a handsome boyfriend, she did not stop him when his hands crawled under her shirt.


    Soon, his hand unfastened the hook of her lingeries as his mouth covered hers, making her lost into the beautiful feeling of the moment. The sound of the couple making love in the screen, aroused both of them further until they stripped themselves of the last pieces of their coverings.


    Engulfed by the irresistible sensation, Shiela opened herself out, finally submitting herself into him despite the drumming of her heartbeats and the whispers of her conscience. This did not happen once but many times, resulting in her five-month pregnancy when she graduated in college.


    Afraid to be scolded, he went home with a heavy heart, concealing her bump with a thick and large jacket.


    "Pa, I am accepted by the company I am applying for a job, but they need to send me to Japan for a one-year training period."

 Chapter 171 - Shiela 2

    Shiela returned to her senses when the glass wall she was leaning one of her hands on, reflected the image of her secretary. She returned to her table after realizing that the man she was watching had long left the place. Until this moment, she felt guilty for not telling him the truth that she did not go to Japan. That Neil''s father only kept her on an island until she gave birth to her child. She was young then, helpless and easily scared by threats.


    "Miss Shiela, I would just like to remind you that your appointment with Rough Seas will be two hours from now."


    "Yes, thank you," Shiela replied, and her secretary left as silently as she came in.


    She hurried to pack a few things in her bag and left the office with a laptop in her arm. She must go before the heavy traffic in the afternoon set in. Anyway, she could find a coffee shop closer to the Rough Seas office if she arrives too early.


    Ordering herself a cup of steaming coffee, she settled herself at a quiet corner on the left side of the counter. On her other side was a glass wall where she could see the busy streets of the city. She looked at her watch and realized she still had an hour and a half left. Occupying herself by scanning into her social media account, the voice of someone in the counter made her turn her head.


    "A cup of espresso, please."


    Though his voice was a bit modulated this time, she could still clearly remember who owned it, even without looking at him. It was the same voice that said, "I love you," every time he kissed her before placing her down on the bed. What she saw was only the side of his face as he made his order. He was so focused on it that he did not notice a pair of eyes looking at him. He had matured and his sturdy built made him look intimidating. Back then, even if he never talked about his family, she knew he came from a prominent one. Most people in the university said so.


    "Thank you," Shiela heard him spoke after the attendant repeated the order. She turned her head away quickly and looked down, pretending she was scanning at her phone. She kept her senses sharp as she followed him in her peripheral vision. She wanted to know whether he was alone or on a date. Her heartbeats hammered louder than her thoughts, and she regretted the moment she decided to come early.


    She held her breath until she could no longer hear his footsteps. She only inhaled deeply and made a sigh when she heard the sound of the opening and closing door. Perhaps, he just dropped by to order a cup of coffee.


    She slowly raised her head up to see if it was indeed him who just went out. She was facing the door and even if it was some feet away, she could still clearly who came and went out. To her shock which made her heartbeat leap some miles away, her eyes directly met his and it locked for a while before she looked away.


    "Shiela," she heard him call her name softly, and without looking up, she saw him pull out a chair across her and sat down.


    "Shiela, glad to see you again. But I''d like to ask you directly, where''s our child?"


    Shiela lifted up her head and dared to look into his eyes. It darted anger and hatred which Neil may have expected already.


    "How dare you ask, you didn''t care after all!" she muttered under her breath and continued, "you left me alone, helpless and scared."


    "How about your family?" he persisted and asked further, "what did they do to you?"


    "None of them knew about it, even my father. And until now, I''m dying with guilt every time I think about it because my poor father believed that I was in Japan for job training."


    "Then where is the child?" His voice was now quivering in anger and impatience.


    "I had it aborted," Sheila answered nonchalantly as he stared into his eyes. No one knew how much courage did it take her to say that. Even Neil who closely watched every bit of her reaction.


    "Damn it, Shiela, tell me the truth! I was powerless then, my parents took me to the USA right after I told them about you."


    "Do you want me to make up stories? Well, I drank bitter herbs, I scrubbed the floor many times in a day, I jogged until I was breathless and took some medicines I can''t remember," Shiela''s emotion gripped her again as her thoughts brought her back to those days where she was torn between doing right and wrong.


    No matter how many times she told herself she won''t cry again but looking back to those days in front of the man whom she expected to share the burden, she couldn''t help herself from breaking any more. She brushed her betraying tears angrily, picked up her bag and stood up to leave.


    "Don''t ever think we''re done!" said Neil as he grabbed her arm as he spoke, giving her a dangerous glare after he released her.


    Shiela sprinted toward her car and threw her bag in the passenger''s seat before she broke down and cried. It took her a long while before she calmed down. When she glanced at her watch, she was already fifteen minutes late.


    She got horrified when she realized she was late, this appointment was too important for her new company. She grabbed her bag and pulled out her powder, dabbing her face hurriedly. She no longer cared about how she looked, what''s more important was to refrain further delays.


    The next thing she knew, she was already in the reception area and before she even asked, the receptionist offered to guide her to the function room. The moment she opened the door, two pairs of eyes met hers and her eyes widened in another wave of shock!

 Chapter 172 - Shiela 3

    Counting numbers from one to three in her mind, she took a deep breath and smiled at Allie, but ignored the other one across her.


    "Miss Ferrer, good afternoon. Are you alright?" Allie walked towards her and helped her sit down.


    "I''m sorry, Miss Allyza. Something came up on my way here," Shiela replied, but Allie''s soft and concerned look cut deep in her heart in a warmth of sympathy that her eyes threatened to shed tears again.


    "It''s okay, Mr. Yu here and I are just chatting while waiting for your coming," Allie assured him while stealing a glance at the said, Mr. Yu.


    "Is he joining us?" she asked, her widened eyes showed both her displeasure and disgust. She knew her question was out of the way and was a sign of disrespect, but seeing him there was just too overwhelming.


    Allie looked between her and Mr. Yu before answering. "Do you find it uncomfortable, Miss Shiela?"


    "Not-not at all," she answered, but not after she threw an angry look at him.


    "So, if it''s alright with you, shall we start?"


    "Okay, Miss Lopez," Mr. Yu answered with a smile, but how he addressed her made Shiela frowned in confusion.


    Allie may have read through her unspoken questions because she explained before proceeding.


    "Miss Shiela, it''s a long story, but Miss Zheena Kiamko and Allyza Reyes Lopez is the same," Allie explained as she shifted her gaze from her to Mr. Yu. She was sitting at the edge of the table, facing both of them.


    "I see," Shiela replied in shame.


    "The company is aiming right now to expand further into other territories. Along with that, we are planning to manufacture our own products. Well, that still needs a lot of planning and preparation, but we will be there."


    Shiela''s spirit sank; it only meant her contract is temporary until the company could generate her own products.


    Allie''s eyes fell on Shiela, and she understood her frustration. "Don''t worry, Miss Shiela. If your products maintain its high quality, I can assure you a long term partnership until we are both established."


    Seeing that Shiela just nodded and did not say anything, she continued. "Miss Ferrer, Mr. Yu here is our new investor for our UAE branch. I would like you to present your company profile and your products to him personally because he can best decide which products he would distribute. I''m also calling out the representatives of other companies to do the same."


    Shiela felt choked that she wanted to flee out of the room. If only she knew she would be dealing with him, she would have looked for other companies. But she had already signed the contract and to breach it would mean a considerable loss to their treasury.


    Allie saw Shiela''s reaction, and she understood that there was something not right between them. She didn''t know if it was right to leave them alone or if she would stay. Seeing that Mr. Yu stayed calm throughout and did not show any reaction, she addressed him a question.


    "Mr. Yu, can we proceed?"


    Mr.Yu sat up straight and nodded, "Sure, Miss Lopez. I''m just waiting for Miss Shiela to proceed," he answered with a teasing smile as Shiela stole a gaze at him. Her expression turned uglier as she saw his mocking grin.


    "Miss Shiela?" Allie turned to her again. With a feeling of helplessness, she turned her laptop on and clicked on to her presentation.


    Allie praised Shiela after the presentation for rendering it efficiently and eloquently as if she was in her best spirit. Little did Allie know that many times during her presentation, she almost gave up and leave the place. This man''s calm facade was a mockery to the turmoil inside her heart. Did he think she couldn''t survive without her partnership?


    After a few more topics, the meeting ended, and Shiela stood up ahead to leave. She asked Allie''s permission to leave while forcing herself to address him also. This was a business, after all, and personal feelings should not be involved.


    "Thanks for the time, Mr.Yu. Goodbye," said Shiela with a quick stare before turning towards the door to leave.


    The moment she settled herself behind the steering wheel, her phone vibrated. She glanced down at it on the phone''s stand and saw an unregistered number. Thinking it was business, she picked up the call and swiped the call button.


    "Hello," she greeted, "May I know whose this, please?"


    "Miss Shiela, how about asking your father?" said the familiar voice on the other line. He had come overboard. This man knew how she respected her father because she endured all the hardship just to spare him from shame and worries.


    "Go ahead, if you want. You''ll get nothing."


    Without answering, she heard a ringing phone in a loudspeaker mode.


    "Mr. Ferrer..."


    Shiela''s airways constricted at what she heard. Perhaps, Neil did already an investigation about her, and maybe, he also searched for his father''s contract.


    Shiela did not show any fear. She already prepared herself for this. No smoke can ever remain hidden forever. She deserved his father''s wrath. The only consolation she had was the fact that she was still his daughter. She knew, anytime soon, her father would call or visit her, and she prepared herself for that moment.


    "You can still get nothing from him. Why do you have to bother yourself for that? The child was still a blood when it came out from me."


    _______


    Meanwhile, in a secret room in a hidden part of the world, a man sat before a grand piano. He stroked his fingers in a hard slam before he ran his fingers over the keys to deliver a rhythmic and difficult strain, depicting the anger inside his heart. In every second that passed by, the tempo got faster and complicated. The sound got louder, scaring everyone who listened outside the room. Every time they heard him play such kind of music, they got nervous. It meant another omen of fury and revenge.

 Chapter 173 - A Baby Boy

    Allie returned to her office after her meeting. She leaned on the backrest and closed her eyes. Her thoughts went back to Shiela''s disturbed behavior a while ago, and she felt that the two knew each other. The hatred in her eyes stuck to her mind, and she hoped it was not business-related. If it were business, then she wouldn''t thrive under the shadow of this Mr. Yu.


    A knock on the door made her return to her senses. She looked towards the door, and Ajie''s head pop on the small opening.


    "You looked tired," he commented as he walked towards her and kissed her on the lips.


    "I''m fine," she answered after she kissed him back, "it''s just that I was bothered by Shiela''s reaction a while ago."


    "I saw anger and hatred, and she came in with bulging eye bags," she recalled, "and when she saw Mr. Yu, her expression darkened, making her disturbed throughout the meeting."


    Ajie chuckled as he sat down across her, "Then I guess, it must be matters of the heart."


    "I hope so."


    "Let''s go," Ajie said, to which Allie pulled up her brows together.


    "It''s time to see Dr. Yee."


    Allie spanked her forehead with her three fingers and exclaimed, "Oh, how can I forget?"


    "It means your mind is full. Slow down, dear. It will also stress out the baby."


    All of a sudden, Allie''s eyes grew wide as if she remembered something. She pulled out her phone again and scrolled into her contact list. After a while, the phone on the other line rang, and she leaned back on the backrest.


    "Che, the interior designer, will be here in an hour for your office design. Come and see him." Allie then stood up and came out from behind the table and Ajie placed his arm around her shoulder as they went out.


    Cherry affirmed her coming, and she felt relieved. How could she forget such an important thing?


    "So, Cherry has made up her mind to stay here as well?" Ajie asked after she put down the phone and placed it back in her bag.


    "Yes, I don''t want to let her feel alone again. Hayri is moving as well, so I think that is the best decision."


    "I agree."


    The drive to Dr. Yee''s clinic took a while due to the massive traffic jam, and Allie got asleep. Ajie secured her seatbelt and placed her head on his shoulders, pushing her now and then every time her head fell from his shoulder. Seeing her that way, he sighed. A few days ago, he thought he would lose her forever, but thanks God, He arranged their steps in its right path, bringing them back together.


    After he parked, he woke Allie up with a deep kiss until she woke up, catching for breath.  "We''re here."


    "I see, " she replied as she looked around, smiling sheepishly afterward for sleeping fast without warning. Ajie patted her head as he went down and walked over to her side to open up the door for her.


    They strolled, and Ajie saw men following them. He glanced up at them and waved a hand, letting them know that he recognized them as their bodyguards.


    Soon, they were at Dr.Yee''s clinic. They both looked around and looked at the posters around the walls. Most of those were photos of pregnant mothers, either breastfeeding or promoting brands of milk.


    "Miss Allyza," the voice of Dr.Yee cut into their ears, and they quickly turned to her, emerging from what looked like an examination room.


    "Your baby bump is showing already," Dr. Yee commented as she looked at the small protrusion of her belly. Her smile was wide and contagious, making the couple feel more excited.


    Allie smiled as she unconsciously rubbed her abdomen. "Yes, doc. I''ll be changing into maternity clothes sooner.


    "That''s right. You should choose the ones you''re comfortable moving around."


    "No more tight-fitting dress," Ajie replied, and it earned him a glare from Allie and a laugh from Dr. Yee.


    "Men should understand women or trouble comes around," said Dr. Yee after laughing.


    "I love her for whatever she wears. She can even wear nothing, and it would be more pleasing to the eye," Ajie replied with a teasing grin, making Allie roll her eyes in discomfort.


    Dr. Yee laughed again as she watched Allie''s reaction, and it ended her doing a lecture.


    "Sex will not harm the baby at any stage if the pregnancy is healthy. Strong uterine muscles and amniotic sac protect them. But both of you should discuss positions that would be comfortable for her. And I would suggest woman- on- top position for all stages because it allows a woman full control of speed, depth, and friction for pleasure."


    "Can we do oral sex?" Ajie asked further, ignoring Allie''s pinch on her side, which she did discreetly. Yet, it did not skip the doctor''s eyes since he swayed away from her.


    "Miss Allyza, I would love it better if you both open up to me. And yes, you can do oral sex. Just don''t blow air over her vagina to avoid air embolism."


    Air embolism is a blockage of a vessel due to bubbles, and it can travel to one''s brain, heart, and lungs, causing heart attack, stroke, and respiratory failure.


    Allie couldn''t help but laugh at the thought of blowing air into her entrance.


    "Why should you blow air?"


    "I''ll try it but just on the outer surface," he said, laughing.


    "Crazy!"


    Soon, Dr. Yee led her to an examination room where she lay on a bed. Dr. Yee rolled up her blouse to expose her belly but placed a drape from her pelvic line and down. She then poured out a gel on the doppler stick and ran it over her lower abdomen. She pointed out the visual image of pulsating black and white waves at the monitor and exclaimed, "that''s the baby''s heartbeat."


    Ajie''s eyes lit up in happiness as he heard it, and Allie chuckled at his reaction. "Let''s see if you won''t get tired in taking care of him."


    "Him?" Ajie''s eyes got wide. How did she know?


    "Yes, he''s a baby boy! Congratulations to both of you."

 Chapter 174 - A Crime Solved

    The couple returned home with the good news.  A baby boy was on the way, and the grandparents couldn''t contain their joy. They were already suggesting names and gave out too many precautions, making Allie felt dizzy and suffocated. They were already excited when they first learned about it, but she couldn''t understand what''s with the gender that made them exhilarated.


    Early the next morning, Ryan called up and requested a video call during their breakfast.


    "I received a call a while ago that a suspect of the kidnapping case was arrested last night. The plate number of the van the suspect used coincided with the plate number of the van, which Chloe entered into as shown by the video footage."


    "What about the gift?" Mr. Lopez asked, his voice was full of anxiety.


    "There''s a code found in his wallet, which was similar to the initials written on the gift tag."


    "For a while, how did Ryan know about the gift and the gift tag?" Allie asked no one in particular, but Ajie spoke out first to answer her question. She gained everyone''s attention, including Ryan, who looked at her at the screen. His smile seemed never to leave his face.


    "I told him about what happened, and he asked to keep the gift wrapper and the gift tag."


    Allie felt relieved and sighed, thankful at Ryan, who intervened for them even with such a short period of getting to know each other. He was worth their trust, after all.


    "What''s the motive?" Mrs. Lopez asked this time, after a while of keeping her silence.


    Ryan gazed at Allie, and the latter got nervous. She held her breath as Ryan continued to speak.


    "He''s a son of a business tycoon who fell secretly for Allie. He was already following her, finding his chance to say his intention, but Hayri was so tight on his guard."


    "Really?" Allie could not believe it happened. She could not remember either that someone made some romantic approaches to her.


    "Perhaps, there is something in his mental condition. His reasoning is not acceptable from a sound mind''s perspective. It''s already an obsession in my point of view."


    He then shrugged as he continued, "Well, he can afford if this is just a game for him. He perhaps doesn''t have something entertaining to spend his money with."


    "I hope he doesn''t get away," Ajie cursed under his breath, "he even involved an innocent child."


    "I won''t let him. Don''t worry," Ryan swore before an angry expression covered his entire aura.


    Everyone showered him then with admiration and thanks. If not for his influence, tracing the culprit would be difficult if it happened in another country.


    "This calls for a celebration. A crime solved, and a baby boy is coming!" Mr. Lopez suggested, chuckling loudly afterward.


    "That''s a good idea, uncle." Ryan agreed with a thumb up.


    "What can you suggest?"


    "What about an island escapade? I own a beautiful island, and you might love it. It''s been a while also since I went there."


    Everybody agreed and set the date. They already started planning on what food to buy and the things to bring.


    Meanwhile, during Allyza''s cruise to Japan, Joanna received a call from their manager informing her that their employer granted them a one-week vacation in the Philippines. During their absence, another band would join the cruise on their behalf. Everyone got excited, and it meant paid hotel accommodation, free amenities, and food.


    "What would you like to suggest?"


    "Life at the beach, of course!" their lead guitarist suggested.


    "I''d suggest surfing!" another suggested.


    "I love mountain climbing, river trekking, and chasing waterfalls!"


    "My goodness! We are not physically fit to do that. How can you climb a mountain if you can''t even climb a stair without panting?"


    "Okay, I''ll go for your suggestions."


    Once the meeting ended, Joanna came back to their room and found Andrew watching a musical show. His mood improved, and he took his medications regularly for a couple of days already. Every day, Leo and Issa visited him, and he no longer rejected them as he did on the first days. During his daily session with Joanna, his cooperation improved, and he started to speak up.


    "Andrew, I''m happy to see you like that. What is it you are watching?"


    Andrew glanced up and smiled before he replied, "A concert."


    "Tell me more about it."


    "This is the fundraising concert held in PICC in honor of Ryan Cayabyab."


    Joanna smiled in happiness, seeing that Andrew was back to his real self. He already missed many performances, and the people who looked forward to watching his concert during their booking were already looking for him.


    "By the way, we are given a break, and the rest choose a beach getaway. So we will drop by the time we reach Japan and catch a flight going to our destination. How do you like it?"


    Andrew stared at her for a moment, trying to open up his mouth to speak but lost the courage in the end. Joanna caught his expression, and she asked, "Do you want to tell me something? Andrew, you know I''m willing to listen."


    "What about Uncle Leo and Auntie Elsa?"


    Joanna smiled at the courage he mustered, and she knew it was difficult for him even to mention their names.


    "I have not talked to them yet. They choose to stay here because of you."


    Andrew looked back at the screen and pretended to watch the show again.


    "Andrew, I know it must be difficult for you to talk about them, but you know, I am very much willing to listen. I still remember you told me that your parents always quarreled. What could be the reason for that?"


    "It''s because father knew I am not his real son and that he could tell that mother still loved her ex-boyfriend."


    "If given a chance, do you think your father Raul will inform Uncle Leo that you are his biological son?"

 Chapter 175 - Parents Instinct

    "If given a chance, do you think your father Raul will inform Uncle Leo that you are his biological son?"


    Andrew looked away for a moment, perhaps pondering upon the question and with a pained expression a little later, and he looked back at Joanna.


    "Not at all," Andrew smirked, "he was too full of himself to do that. He doesn''t allow us to get near him, and he  even warned to hurt us if we dare disobey."


    "Why?"


    "Because he''s angry and jealous."


    "You seemed to be angry at Uncle Leo also. Do you think it''s fair to put your blame on him knowing that he did not know the truth?"


    "I know it''s not, but I can''t help it. I believe in a parent''s instinct."


    "As far as I know, Uncle Leo suffered shame and pain when your father Raul accused and punished for raping your mother. What will you do if you were in his place?"


    "I swear I will avenge myself."


    "But Uncle Leo did not do that. He chose to live far away from them, and that''s why he came to Molave, a mountain district. How do you see a person doing that instead?"


    "He''s a coward though I can say he chose the good and peaceful side."


    "So do you think Uncle Leo has a good heart by doing that? And if he knew the truth earlier, wouldn''t he acknowledge you as your son?"


    "No, because Adrian is there."


    "But we already know that Adrian is not his real son."


    Andrew stared at her but did not say a word.


    "If he loves Adrian even if he''s only adopted, wouldn''t you think he would love you even more as the real son?"


    During their last breakfast before the group set off from the ship, Joanna invited Leo and Issa to join them.


    "Auntie, Uncle, we would be happier if you will join us on our beach getaway," Joanna said excitedly while Andrew just ate in silence.


    "We''re already too old for that, Joanna," Leo replied with a chuckle, "but we will be waiting for you in Molave."


    Joanna glanced at Andrew, who still kept his silence. The elderlies also followed Joanna''s eyes and waited for his reaction. Seeing that he remained ignoring them, they looked at each other, and Joanna passed them a silent message that she would not stop until Andrew would accept them. Leo and Issa nodded, and their looks implied that they could wait.


    They all went to the airport together, and Joanna helped the couple in all the processes. Andrew tagged along even if he still did not talk to them. As they said goodbyes before they separated, Joanna hugged them both, and the latter did the same. They also hugged Andrew, who stood unmoving like a statue.


    "Son, we will be waiting for you at home," Leo said his last words before he stepped away.


    Andrew blinked and stared at him, but they noticed that his expression softened. Leo didn''t speak further, but he tapped Andrew''s shoulder before he walked away. Even if Andrew may still hold a flat affect, but Leo turned away with a happy and hopeful heart. Time had it''s own way of healing and changing things into better perspectives.


    ______


    Cherry woke up early to prepare the things she needed to bring on their island escapade. She still had to meet the interior designer of her office for the final touches. They would also discuss options for the house she planned to build for her own since she would also be moving her office with Allie. Anyway, she could always visit her branches anytime.


    Miss Grace Veraces, the interior designer, finally sent a message that she was already on her way. They agreed to meet at the hotel''s restaurant, and she came down ahead and chose a less crowded corner. She got herself a cup of coffee, planning to check her mails while waiting. The table she occupied was too big for two, but she chose it to have a space to put her laptop on. People were already coming and filling half of the place, and waiters were busy serving them.


    Focusing on the mails for the moment as she realized she already had many unattended messages, she snapped up to her senses when a familiar voice called out her name.


    "Miss Perez, it''s nice to see you here!"


    Cherry glanced up towards where the voice came from and smiled ahead, thinking that an acquaintance spotted her there. To her surprise, the owner of the voice was the interior designer, and seeing her smiling at someone else, she thought for a while that the latter forgot her face and had mistaken someone else as herself. Yet to her shock, the woman answered, and her voice flowed out in excitement.


    "Grace! What a small world, I also did not expect to see you here." She heard the woman whom the interior designer addressed as Miss Perez answered.


    The woman''s back was facing Cherry, but even without seeing the face yet, her familiar voice and built caused an instant tumult inside her heart. She still looked elegant as she always remembered, her movements refined like someone expected from a higher status.


    "I heard you were in Vietnam," Miss Veraces replied, her eyes still wore the surprise of seeing her.


    "I was days ago, but I do not stay at the same place most of the time, " the woman answered while stepping forward, stretching her arms wide for a hug.


    "So, you''re staying here?" Miss Grace Veraces asked after they got themselves into a tight hug.


    "This is one of my company''s hotel I am overseeing," Miss Perez answered, a smile remained plastered at her beautiful face. "By the way, you''re also staying her? For a project?"


    "Not actually, but yes, I am going to meet someone here for a project."


    "A house or a commercial establishment?"


    Before Grace could answer, Cherry snatched up her bag and her laptop and sprinted out of the restaurant. She went up directly to her room, catching her breath. She was not ready yet, and perhaps, the wound was still there.

 Chapter 176 - I Miss Her

    Cherry got lost in her thoughts as the scenes of her past unfolded again in her mind. It had been six years, and by deciding to come back in her place, she thought she was already emotionally prepared to face them all. She presumed it wouldn''t hurt anymore. She even felt triumphant in being able to forgive Andrew so easily. But why seeing her mother relived all the pain she felt in the past?


    Her mother''s elegance and self-confidence she displayed a while ago were her traits she remembered she always possessed, and it seemed that her loss did not affect her. Is she already married? Is she still the same person she used to be, especially in dealing with men? How did she react when she heard the news of her demise? Did she ever mourn for her loss? These and other so many questions came into her mind that she did not hear her phone ringing.


    After several missed calls, Miss Grace Veraces went to the reception area and asked the receptionist to connect a call to her room and tell her that she was waiting for her in the lobby. The sound of the phone in her room was louder than her mobile phone, so it successfully interrupted Cherry from her train of thoughts. She hurried to pick it up, and the receptionist''s message reminded her of her appointment with Miss Veraces.


    "Miss Grace, I''m sorry. I had this sudden urge to go to the bathroom. Can I see you at the coffee shop, instead?" Cherry explained as she called her up.


    "Sure, Miss Che. Are you sure you are fine? It took you so long to call me back. When I was on my way here, you told me you are already in the restaurant checking your mails."


    "I''m fine, Miss Grace. See you in a while."


    She did not hang up and waited for Miss Grace to end the call herself. Little did Grace know that he did not turn off the phone, allowing her to listen to her ongoing conversation.


    "Thank God, she''s okay," Cherry heard Miss Grace exclaimed.


    "What makes her so long? If she''s not feeling well, I can request a doctor for a room visit," her mom''s worried voice floated in her ears.


    "I think she''s fine. She''ll be here in a minute."


    "What''s her name, by the way?" her mom asked again.


    "Miss Cherry," came the reply, and her heart skipped a beat when she heard Grace completing her identity, "Cherry Perez."


    Cherry heard a gasp, and even if she did not see the person, she knew it was her mom because Miss Grace commented right away. "How come I didn''t realize it? My goodness, you share the last name!"


    "Indeed, but even if my daughter''s name is also Cherry, a dead person can''t come back."


    "Who knows she is a relative?"


    "Perhaps."


    "By the way, Miss Perez, I heard you were sick for so long after your daughter''s death. I''m happy to see that you are fine now."


    She heard a chuckle and then a sigh before her mom answered, "I didn''t know how I survived."


    The statement cut through Cherry''s heart like a sharp object. She didn''t know if it was guilt or a sense of pity. Whatever it was, it made her feel like crying for the first time. Never did she expect that her loss would affect her mother. For if she had a mother''s heart and if she cared for her as her daughter, she shouldn''t have betrayed her. Taking her daughter''s lover in her bed was such an inhuman act. To think, it didn''t happen once but many times.


    Cherry ended the call. She couldn''t afford to hear another shattering statement from her anymore. Most of all, she still couldn''t fully believe that affection for her existed in her mother''s heart. She waited until Miss Grace called her back before she gave her location. As requested, Miss Grace came alone.


    They sat across each other in a four-seater coffee table. Though Cherry had a thicker retouch of her makeup, it still did little to conceal the evidence that she had just cried. Miss Grace gave her a look that she was concerned about how she felt at the moment but got no courage to speak out. Cherry forced out a smile before handing Grace the menu.


    "I''m sorry for taking long, Miss Grace," she apologized, and her hoarse voice complemented her swollen eye bags, making Miss Grace stare at her with a pained smile.


    "It''s alright, Miss Che. While waiting for you, I met a friend, and we had a little catching up," Miss Grace answered with a bright smile before she added, "and you know what, you have the same name with her daughter."


    Cherry feigned a surprised look and exclaimed, "Really, but you''re right, I share the same name with a lot of people out there. How is your friend?"


    "It so happened that she is the directress of this group of hotels and restaurants that I came across with her."


    "Really?"


    Miss Grace smiled enthusiastically, and with pride in her tone and expression, she replied, "Yes. I''m happy that she got up again and moved on after that tragedy of her life. It had been a long while since her views changed from wanting to die to giving herself a second chance."


    Cherry pretended to be curious, and she furrowed her brows as she asked, "Why? What happened to her."


    "She was unable to accept the fact for a long time that her daughter went away. Her staff caught her many times, attempting to end her life. She''s her only daughter; after all, no  mother would be able to accept such loss so easily."


    Cherry choked at the information, and she felt a lump was obstructing her airways. Her mom always acted indifferent like she never cared about how the world went around her. She couldn''t deny that her mom tried to do her duties as expected of a mother, but due to the shameful things she did, all she could see was her wickedness and not the good side of her.


    Before she could share an opinion on what Miss Grace said, she saw her eyes turned towards the door like she watched someone coming over. She then heard footsteps, but she held her breath, not daring to turn her head and look at who came over. To her anxiety, Miss Grace rose and walked a few steps behind her.


    "What happened?" Miss Grace''s voice was clear enough for her to hear.


    "Nothing. I just can''t help myself from getting emotional after our chat. I ran away. I don''t want the people to see me at my weakest moments."


    Cherry then heard sniffs, muffled by the music on the background. She cursed whoever was the staff at that coffee shop who turned their music too loud.


    "I miss her, Grace!"

 Chapter 177 - Heart Failure

    Seeing that they were a few feet away from her and that they were both engrossed at each other, Cherry stood up, picked up her things, and walked away. She took her exit at the other door before Miss Grace would find out that she was gone.


    She went up to her room again, and her heart was in a mess. Her thoughts were on her and on what she said. She could not believe her ears, her mother missed her! And she knew it was not a drama. But why was she hardened and unwilling to face her yet? Why was it more comfortable to forgive Andrew than her mom?


    Pressed with guilt about her stubbornness, she lied down on her bed and lost herself into her thoughts. She hated herself for feeling this way. She knew that forgiveness was the only way to set her mind and heart free. She knew that giving up the load would give her peace of mind, but her sense of humiliation was too heavy.


    For the first time in six years, she wondered how her mom was faring all this time. How did she survive against the people''s whispers behind her back? How did she survive against the people''s unspoken confrontation for being so irresponsible as a mother in watching over her daughter? Friends may not get the courage to confront her, but she knew her family did. And that was, she guessed, more painful. That was, she imagined, more demeaning because her own family was surely showing it to her mother''s face how irresponsible she was.


    She picked up her phone to send Grace a message to move their meeting to another day. She was no longer in the mood to talk about designs. Yet before she got into the messaging, her phone vibrated and as expected, it was Miss Veraces.


    "Miss Che, I am so sorry. My friend got emotional, and I was carried away. When I turned to look at you before I led her to another table, you were already nowhere."


    Cherry felt relieved, and out of curiosity, she asked, "How''s your friend, Miss Grace?"


    "She''s asleep now after the doctor gave her a strong pain reliever."


    Cherry''s eyes widened in shock, and she sprang up to her feet."What did you say?"


    "Yes, Miss Che. I forgot to tell you that I brought her to the hospital because, in the middle of our chat, she complained of stabbing chest pain."


    Pain reliever. Chest Pain. Hospital. These words echoed in her brain like a broken audiotape, and she started to feel panicked.


    "Miss Che, I have to go. Miss Perez has no relative. The nurse is asking me now to process her ICU admission."


    Hearing her words was like having a slow bomb inside her chest, its poison starting to diffuse and benumbed her senses before she could run and shout. The next thing she knew was that she was already running in the lobby, hailing the first taxi, which stopped by the entrance. The guard hurried to stop her because someone else got that ride. Yet, seeing her in a panicked expression, the guard backed off and let her go.


    "In what hospital are you now, Miss Grace?" she asked, to Miss Grace''s surprise. Miss Grace stuttered before she answered, torn in between her desire to disclose and the confidentiality that Miss Perez might care about.


    "You said we have the same family name. Who knows I might be a relative?" Cherry tried to explain, taking in the cue of her hesitations.


    Miss Grace finally gave in, and in the next few minutes, she found herself running towards the information desk, asking for the direction of the ICU. Like a flash of lightning, she appeared at the door of the ICU, too impatient to wait for the nurse to open up. Her hair got disheveled, and her breath ragged.


    It somewhat took an eternity before the nurse finally opened up. She begged to allow her to see the patient, and after a few sets of reminders that she couldn''t stay long and there were visiting hours to follow, Miss Grace was asked to go out so that she could get in.


    Standing by the hospital bed of her mother, she watched her sleeping with a wincing expression.  That was perhaps because her breathing was fast despite the oxygen cannula attached to her nose to aid her respiration. She was taken aback in realizing that her mother was still as beautiful as she was six years ago,  though few lines were marking those passing years. Her knees trembled upon seeing her attached to beeping machines with flickering numbers she couldn''t understand. However, there was one apparatus that looked familiar to her, and it looked like the cardiac monitor in movie scenes that displayed the tracings of her heartbeat.


    She didn''t know that tears were already dripping from her eyes, and complicated feelings wrapped up her heart. She felt anger, pity, guilt, and humiliation altogether, fighting to dominate her spirit. After staring at her for a considerable time, an urge to wake her up and relieve her of her guilt and miseries fought its way to her heart. She almost got tempted to give in when the nurse approached her.


    "Ma''am, you may come back later when the patient wakes up. She''s on a pain reliever for her chest pain and another medication to make her relax."


    "May I talk to the doctor, please?" Cherry asked with pleading eyes, a sense of deep anxiety flashed within.


    Before the nurse could answer, the door to the ICU opened up. A woman in her fifties, wearing a white coat entered, tagging behind her were younger males and females in white coat also, who seemed to be post-graduate interns.


    "Good morning! I am Dr. Medina, the patient''s cardiologist," said the doctor with a smile on her face, glancing back and forth at her and the chart. "If I''m not mistaken, you are the patient''s daughter. You look exactly like her."


    Cherry nodded without saying a word, and her heartbeats were louder than the doctor''s voice.


    "Miss Perez has been suffering from heart problems for years already. And lately, the pumping of her heart is getting weaker."


    "What do you mean, doc?" Cherry asked, her brain seemed to process information slower at this moment.


    "We call that in medical terms as ejection fraction. While the normal percentage ranges from 55% percent to 70%, hers is 40%.


    After a few minutes of discussion with the doctor, which she didn''t understand because of her inner chaos, she left the ICU and went out aimlessly.


    Meanwhile, Miss Perez woke up, and a nurse greeted her with a smile."Miss Perez, your daughter came here to see you, and she left a few minutes ago."

 Chapter 178 - An Angel To Watch Over Me

    Miss Perez sat up abruptly, forgetting the fact that she was hooked to different medical apparatus and IV lines.


    "What did you say, Miss?" she asked, her eyes round and full.


    "Yes, ma''am. Your daughter was here a while ago, and she said her name is Cherry Perez. We are even amused at the similarity of your looks and your names. You are Cherry Rose, and she is plain Cherry. How are you usually addressed?"


    "I''m widely known as Miss Perez by colleagues and clients, but my family calls me Rose. How does she look like?"


    "She''s a young and simpler version of you."


    Miss Perez smiled and closed her eyes, wondering who came and pretended that she was her daughter. Perhaps, her friend Grace pretended to be her daughter to prevent further questioning. Then she remembered that the nurse just told her that the woman was a younger and simpler version of herself. She then wondered if she was her real self, or she was back to her delusional self due to depression?


    She thought of calling Grace, but before she could ask the nurse for her phone and bag, Grace entered the room. Relieved to see her awake and looking fine, Grace sighed and smiled.


    "Miss Perez, how are you now?"


    "A little better, Grace. I can''t thank you enough for assisting me. You may now go home."


    Grace nodded and smiled. "Visiting hours are almost over. Rest well, and I''ll stay with you longer when you are in a regular room."


    Miss Perez then remembered what the nurse said. "Grace, tell me. Were you with me the whole time?"


    "Yes, I was in the waiting lounge."


    "Did you notice anyone coming over to see me?"


    Afraid that Miss Perez would get angry for disturbing her privacy by telling Cherry about her admission, she hesitated to tell the truth. She chose to lie, in the end.


    "No one except me came over to assist you, Miss."


    "Are you sure?" she asked, wondering who she should believe. Grace or the nurse? Or was she hallucinating only and that the nurse was only a delusion?


    "I am," Grace answered firmly, looking straight into her eyes.


    The nurse who overheard them butted in,"I thought you heard us, ma''am, when we asked you to go out so that Miss Perez''s daughter can come in."


    Miss Grace''s heart skipped a beat and she turned pale, ashamed of being caught lying. Somehow, she still managed to reason out. "Really, Miss? Perhaps because I got so worried about the status of my friend that I was out of my mind."


    Miss Perez saw her reaction and thought she got horrified at the news. Grace knew about her daughter''s loss and how much it affected her. "I understand, Grace. Hope to see you tomorrow."


    _______


    Cherry went to the mall and bought the things she planned to bring during the outing. She wanted to engulf herself in other things, hoping to forget her troubles for a moment. She was still confused and part of her was still hesitant to forgive. After going through different shops, she got tired and decided to take a break at a coffee shop.


    Looking for an empty space at her favorite coffee outlet, she got frustrated when she saw that all the tables were occupied. She looked around and almost everyone immersed themselves in conversations or in their laptops. She turned to go and find another place but a girl who seemed to be ten years old held her arm.


    "''Auntie, you can''t find a seat? You may share my table."


    Surprised by the offer, her mood lifted up and happily took her seat across her.


    "Baby girl, you''re alone?" she asked as soon as she settled herself and some of the things she bought at the empty chair beside her.


    "Mom and dad went out to do groceries but I asked to stay here because I need to find a good musical background for the video I''m going to make for mom."


    "Video?" Cherry confirmed, somewhat confused about what she meant as she was still so young to create video presentations.


    "Tomorrow is Mother''s Day so I want to create something special for mom."


    "Really?" was all Cherry could say, taken aback by the news of a special event she had forgotten for a long time.


    She tried to recall some memories of her and her mom when she was still ten years old. She then saw herself sitting on a chair and her mom brushing her hair, trying to tie it into different styles.


    "You''re beautiful, darling. You should learn how to keep yourself pretty always."


    Her thoughts drifted also to a scene in the past when she fell on the ground and got her knees wounded.


    "Darling, you should be careful. As a lady, you should keep your skin flawless. Look, you might have a scar."


    One day, she got herself into trouble when she fought with a boy and the latter slapped her. She went home crying and her mom hugged her tight.


    "While I am alive, no one should hurt you or else, they might experience what hell is like," she heard her mom said as she comforted her.


    Her daydreaming ended when the voice of the child pierced in her ear. "Look, auntie, I have chosen three songs. Can you help me decide on what''s best among the three?"


    A song titled, "An Angel To Watch Over Me" by Sally Deford caught her eye. She turned on the video player and listened to every word it says. The slow tempo and the melancholy of the music pierced deeply into her heart and she found herself brushing away her hot and stubborn tears.


    She watched by my cradle through long, sleepless night                                  She taught me to pray as she knelt by my side


    She guarded my childhood and all through the years


    She echoed my laughter, she counted my tears


    In the arms of my mother, I came to believe


    That God sent an angel to watch over me


    She taught me the meaning of courage and faith


    She taught me to live with the Lord as my strength


    She taught me to follow the pathway he marked


    She guided my steps when the journey grew dark


    And I know there were dangers that I could not see


    But God sent an angel to watch over me


    She taught me to serve with a spirit that sings


    She taught me to seek after heavenly things


    And because of her love and her kindness and care


    Because of the place that I hold in her prayers


    And because of her goodness, I still believe


    That God sent an angel to watch over me.

 Chapter 179 - The Will to Live

    Cherry pondered on the meaning of the song, and her tears just didn''t stop falling. If mothers are angels, then how could her mom betray her? Of all the many people, why did it have to be her? Only now did it occur to her that the most profound reason for her stubbornness was the humiliation that it was her very own mother who inflicted that most painful wound within her soul. A wound too difficult to treat because it existed in her mind.


    Yet, if she looked back to her childhood days, she could neither deny the memories of her love and protectiveness.  She could see herself very well in this little girl before her, whose heart swelled with gratitude towards her mother.


    Who was she, she thought, to judge her and her weaknesses? Her mom never bothered her with her burdens as a child. She never remembered seeing her cry. She knew that she, too, had her own heartaches that perhaps, she just kept to herself. And maybe, she pretended to be brave and strong despite her emotional troubles, that she may always be a hero in her eyes.


    Standing by the hospital bed of her mother a few hours later, she watched her closely as she laid there in somewhat troubled sleep. The beeping sounds of the apparatus and the flickering numbers in green and red lights kept the cubicle alive. Only then did she realize that her mother suffered alone, even in her sickness and struggles.


    She then turned to the nurse, who was on her table, scribbling something in the chart. "Miss, is there somebody else who came before me?"


    The nurse lifted her head up and looked at her. "No, ma''am."


    "How is she?"


    "She was awake a few minutes ago, but we gave her another dose of relaxant to let her sleep."


    "Why do you have to do that? She had been sleeping all through the night, I think."


    The nurse smiled and replied, "Her heart needs it, ma''am, in order to recuperate."


    Before she could ask more, the doctor whom she talked the day before entered the cubicle. She smiled as she saw her before saying her greetings. She supposedly wanted to ask about her mom''s status right away but the nurse handed her the chart. The doctor then flipped through its pages while darting her gaze from the chart to the patient. She then stood up and ran her eyes through the monitoring apparatus before she held her stethoscope and moved it at intervals across her mother''s chest.


    After some time of listening to her heartbeats, the doctor looked up to her and smiled. "She can already be transferred to a regular room if she has a companion to stay with her. I hope this time, you can help her find someone to look after her. She has always been alone in her previous admissions."


    "I will personally take care of her, doc," she smiled, but a pang of pain started to wrap up her whole being. She was not too numb to miss what the doctor implied in her statement. She knew she was suggesting her the other way around, and not someone else whom she may suggest.


    "That''s wonderful. Who knows your presence could help her stop the progress of her illness? You know how loneliness or stress as a whole can kill a person."


    She locked her gaze at the doctor, confused about what she meant. "Doc, do you mean to say that stress is the cause of her present condition?"


    "What I really mean, Miss Perez,  is that loneliness takes a person''s will to live."


    The doctor''s words hit her hard like an arrow, making her cringe in guilt. She shifted her gaze between her mother and the doctor, fighting against her urge to cry.


    With quivering lips, she took the courage to ask her the most dreaded question which haunted her since yesterday. "Doc, how long is she going to live?"


    Her question jolted the doctor from where she stood. She was never prepared to answer this question. Other questions like what was her illness or anything related to her condition would have been more acceptable than her straightforward one. Nevertheless, she tried to find a kinder way to answer her.


    "Our lives are in the Master''s hand, Miss Perez and it is He who decides. I am only a doctor, His instrument in caring for the sick, but true healing comes only from Him."


    The doctor''s words moved her again, and this time, tears spilled from her eyes. She brushed it away, hurriedly with one hand and chuckled afterward.


    "So, doc, how is she?" she dared to ask,  in between her tears stifled sniffs.


    "She is suffering from a heart failure called dilated cardiomyopathy."


    Before she could ask for a detailed explanation, the doctor continued, "I am sorry to say that her case is drug-induced according to the series of tests conducted to her. I hope it''s not about her negative coping  against her loneliness that prompted her to take the substance."


    Cherry''s eyes widened in both shock and disbelief. "Do you mean, doc, that she''s taking drugs like methamphetamine, cocaine, or marijuana?"


    The doctor shook her head, and her expression was one of sadness and frustration. "It''s more powerful than methamphetamine or any of its derivatives. The substance can be identified in the blood of those few who are taking it but the compound has no name yet. The researchers are now looking into this since as of now, the source of this drug is not known yet."


    Cherry frowned and her brows furrowed. She could not understand what the doctor really meant. If the substance could be identified, why didn''t they know the source?


    "Why not ask my mom?" she asked, her tone slightly raised in disgust. Why not tell her honestly about it instead of beating around the bush?"


    "We already did, but it appears that either she cannot point it out. Or perhaps, she is just too stubborn to confess."


    "Doc, what really do you mean?" she asked further, now irritated from the suspense and fear that her mother might be a drug user. Was she too desperate to cling on to drugs for comfort and companionship?


    The doctor shook her head and said, "We are afraid, Miss Perez, that''s it is the underworld''s new and innovative product, more powerful than the present narcotics."


    £¬

 Chapter 180 - Myrtle Shade

    Cherry froze and pinned from where she stood, her mouth opened in massive shock. She couldn''t believe that her mother''s depression led her to the use of whatever kind of drug she had been indulging for a long time already. Not to mention the fact that she was using the latest drug the underworld had lately produced. She lived a lonely life and put herself aloof from the world. How come had she associated herself to those people who influenced her in using these addictive substances? And knowing about her mother''s standards, the image she tried to uphold, and the beauty she maintained to conceal her insecurities, she could never accept the truth of her current situation.


    As the doctor promised, the ICU nurses transported her mother to a regular private room a few minutes later. She was still asleep when they wheeled her in and even a few hours after they got themselves into the new room. That gave Cherry some ample time to prepare herself for their meeting.


    When her mother finally stirred, Cherry hid in a corner where she couldn''t be seen directly. She watched her reaction when she saw the flowers she placed at her bedside. She saw her leaned closer and held the note attached to the flower, which read as, "Mom, get well soon. I always love you. Cherry."


    Writing that message caused her an emotional struggle. She hated her mother for years and even found it hard to forgive her. The humiliation was just too high, and to think, it prompted her to disguise her death and live a separate life. Yet, she knew that the first step to forgiveness should begin with her. And she knew that it would be the way to her emotional freedom.


    Lost in her thoughts for a moment while she recalled her struggles, she sprang back to reality when a sob pierced in her ear. She saw her shoulders moving and a hand covering her mouth. In every moment that passed by, her mother''s sobbing got louder until she got afraid that it might trigger another chest pain. She knew it could be fatal.


    Gathering her strength, she walked slowly forward and approached her. Her mom got so lost in her sadness and crying that she did not notice that she was not alone in the room. Even when she paused and stood by her side, her mom still did not see her.


    When Cherry felt that her mother was already gasping for breath, she wrapped her arms around her, pressing her body against her back. She then leaned her head on her shoulder and hugged her tight. The first touch was like a knob to the barrel of tears she kept inside, and her mother''s warmth opened it up, sending the content in a deluge.


    Her mother looked up to her and a terrified expression registered in her face. She also noticed the stiffening of her body. Before her mom could further react, she held her tighter, making her sob louder. She then felt her mother softened, and she knew that she had now recognized her.


    "I knew it. I knew it," her mom said, as her sobbing turned to wailing. "Somehow, I knew it in my heart that you are alive."


    After who knew how long they stayed crying in each other''s arms, Cherry''s mom opened up a conversation. "Dear, how did you make it through the storm?"


    Cherry shook her head and replied, "I did not jump into the water..."


    Cherry''s mom stared at her for a moment as if she did not hear it correctly. Cherry then proceeded to tell her the truth of how it happened though she omitted some facts about it like how Ajie helped her with the plan and how Jeff''s family rescued her. Such kindness of these people was something she could not risk to offend, and sadly, some truth meant to be kept forever.


    "Why did you do it? You have no idea how you scared me to death? You have no idea how much pain I endured?" her voice started to rise in suppressed anger and embarrassment.


    "I was angry. I was humiliated, and I do not need to tell you why..."


    Cherry''s mom looked down in shame. She could no longer look up to her and may have even wished she died during one of her hospital admissions. "Then why do you come back? I do not deserve your forgiveness."


    Her words threw a sting inside her heart, and despite the humiliation that remained somewhere deep inside, it still managed to draw out a sense of pity towards her. A feeling that surprised her at the moment.


    "Ma, can we start all over again and forget everything that happened between us? We only have each other," she said, tears welling up again in her eyes.


    "Does it mean I am forgiven?"


    "In one condition."


    Cherry''s mom looked up to her again, seeking for a reaffirmation of her sincerity. "Then tell me what you want."


    "Let me help you overcome your drug addiction."


    Cherry''s mom threw her eyes wide in both shock and surprise. Where did she get the idea of that drug issue?


    Cherry saw through the meaning of her reaction and did not hesitate to lay it open before her. "A laboratory test identifies a substance in your blood, and it is believed to be the causative factor of your heart failure."


    Cherry''s mom shook her head, and she saw the sincerity in her expression. "The doctor and some personnel also talked to me about it, but believe me, I can never do that."


    Seeing that Cherry did not say a word, she continued. "I even have not seen an addictive substance in an actual figure yet."


    Cherry gathered her brows in confusion and exclaimed, "Then why is it found in your blood?"


    "I don''t know. I only have one addiction, and it is coffee."


    "How many cups of coffee do you drink each day?"


    "Three to five times."


    "What kind of coffee do you usually drink?"


    "It''s always our brewed, Arabica beans, but a year ago, someone introduced me to a slimming coffee."


    Cherry''s eyes widened this time. She recalled how her friend got breathless after taking three cups of a particular slimming coffee. She complained of too much palpitation and an excessive loose bowel movement.


    "Too much coffee can harm us. And since the caffeine in it forces your heart to work faster, it is not good for you," Cherry tried to admonish but not forcing her to submission.


    "I know, but this certain coffee I am addicted to is irresistible. It really makes my day, and I do not palpitate."


    "What''s the name?"


    "Myrtle Shade."

 Chapter 181 - Coffee Culture

    Drinking coffee and tea has already become a lifestyle throughout the ages. For most people, a day won''t start without a cup of coffee to perk them on. It has become a part of almost every culture and has spread globally, especially in the Western world and urbanized centers. In the late 20th century, coffee houses have become social hubs and meeting places for all forms of transactions, especially business and political agenda.


    The uses of coffee have evolved through time, and it is no longer restricted to its most common benefits, such as its energy-boosting power and its ability to increase one''s metabolism. The evolution goes to the flavors as well and no longer limited to brewing, ground coffee beans. Coffee lovers better enjoy flavors such as caramel macchiato, french vanilla, mocha, hazelnut, and among others.


    The many benefits of coffee, especially for those who want to lose weight, make coffee drinking more famous and widely-diffused. Researchers are promoting different kinds of slimming plant-based derivatives or herbal sources, incorporating it into the coffee drinks. Some herbs that also promote cardiovascular and sexual health benefits like Tongkat Ali, Ginseng, Ginkgo Biloba, and other plant extracts make its ways to the market and stay popular through multilevel marketing strategies.


    Different companies introducing different kinds of slimming herbs and plant-based properties pave their waves to fame and fortune. Among the latest trends is the introduction of Garcinia Cambogia, a tropical fruit, also known as Malabar tamarind, known for its weight-trimming properties. Among its active ingredients is hydroxycitric acid, which is believed to block the production of fats in the body. It also increases the production of serotonin, a brain chemical, making one feel less hungry.


    While Garcinia Cambogia and many other slimming properties hit the market, another powerful slimming coffee, the Myrtle Shade,  hit the slimmers world and in so short a time, it spread widely and was embraced by a thicker population around the globe and not just those who desire to lose weight.


    Coffee shops specializing in different flavors of  Myrtle Shade rose in different corners of every city and were flooded by all people from different walks of life, except children. The company spent a huge amount on its promotion and advertisement, showing the population of its different clinical studies about its safety and potency. Aside from that, the source of Myrtle Shade revealed its high antioxidant level and so far, hit the record of containing the highest Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC} value. ORAC is a laboratory test that quantifies the total antioxidant capacity of a food or supplement.


    Myrtle Shade also surpassed the taste and rich aroma by any other coffee, aside from the highlights of its flavors offered by coffee houses. The company also offered instant packs for home use and separate packs for non-dairy creamers. The highlight for their instant packs was also the different flavors offered which consumers could choose.


    Cherry frowned when her mom mentioned Myrtle Shade. She, herself, had heard of it and even went to one of its cafes. The slightly high prices and its more elegant shops than the rest of the coffee shops were the only factors that made the difference. Yet, she couldn''t deny that the taste, complemented by the beautiful ambiance of the place, was more excellent than the rest. However, it had nothing to do with her mom''s addiction, even though coffee is the most widely-accepted stimulant. The effect of her addiction was similar to the adverse effect of using methamphetamines and it could never be the effect of coffee intake.


    "I''m also using Myrtle Shade," she said, throwing her mom a confused look.


    "That''s what I said, exactly. That''s the only thing I am addicted to."


    When Cherry gave her that unbelieving look, she added, "Dear, ever since, I despise those who are taking drugs and I could never imagine myself taking it. Look at those drug addicts-their physical aura, their poor judgment, their messy looks are something I could never imagine doing to myself. I''d rather cut my wrist or get overdosed with pills rather than making myself a drug dependent."


    Cherry could see the sincerity in her mom''s expression and she wondered how come she got those chemical compounds in her blood. It would also be impossible to get drugged without her knowing unless she was a subject of a syndicate''s experiment.


    "Okay, I believe you. Whatever is your job now, I want you to resign immediately. I need to monitor you closely every day because the stage of your illness is no longer a joke."


    "But, dear, I don''t want to stay idle. You''re no longer a baby that I could enjoy taking care of."


    "Then work in my company. I can give you a job." Her mom stared at her, gaping at what she said, and before she could say anything, Cherry continued. "And one more thing, I want you to work with Miss Grace for the design of our new house. I''ll leave it to you."


    Cherry''s mom cried hard upon hearing her. She felt ashamed of herself in the fact that her daughter accomplished great things in which she had never contributed to. Cherry succeeded in proving it to her that she could do well without her presence and that having her around, only meant shame and frustration. Yet, she could no longer bring back the time.


    _____


    After dinner, the nurse came in to give another dose of her relaxant to let her heart rest for a faster recovery. She then fell asleep and Cherry hurried up to talk to her cardiologist.


    "Doc, I get nothing out of my interview and she is really sincere. She despises drug users and she even said she''ll rather kill herself than to become an addict."


    "Let''s give her a much longer time to open up," the doctor smiled, expecting this result. "This is your first meeting and naturally, she is not expected to speak out."


    Cherry nodded and suddenly, she wanted to ask about the negative effects of coffee intake. The caffeine in coffee also causes palpitation and eventually, in her opinion, will tire one''s heart out.


    "Is she a coffee drinker?" the doctor asked lazily.


    "She said she''s addicted to Myrtle Shade."


    The doctor stared at her for a few seconds but then her eyes darted in shock as she seemed to realize something.


    "You know, the cases of cardiomyopathy under me increases into ten folds and all of them begged me to let them take their favorite coffee during their admissions. Could it be that this Myrtle Shade has an addictive substance other than caffeine?

 Chapter 182 - The Fact Behind Myrtle Shade

    Miss Rose Perez''s cardiologist brought up her concern to her fellow specialists, and they had a similar observation. Their cases of cardiomyopathy multiplied, and all were associated with Myrtle Shade. Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle that makes it harder for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body. It is one of the common adverse effects of illegal drugs, especially methamphetamines because it speeds up the heart rate and thus, putting stress on the heart, increasing the risk of its failure.


    This concern caught the attention of the Department of Health, and so investigations were conducted. However, their claims of high antioxidant content and other health benefits were otherwise proven and not the suspicious addictive compound.


    For months, the mystery of where the substance came from stayed unresolved. Those patients who submitted themselves for the investigation still had that substance in their blood after repeated tests at different intervals. Even with strict monitoring. Yet, when they tried to remove the Myrtle Shade from their daily intake, their blood was cleared off from the substance. However, after a series of reports from the Department of Health that they found no suspicious ingredient in Myrtle Shade products, the complaints of the cardiologists were silenced.


    ____


    The next day, Cherry went to the office and found Allie standing in front of her desk, talking to a lady. She smiled and waved a hand before proceeding to her office, but Allie waved back, gesturing for her to come over.


    "Che, I would like you to meet Miss Shiela Ferrer," Allie started her introduction, shifting her gaze between Cherry and Shiela. "And Miss Shiela, this is Miss Cherry Perez,  our company''s vice president."


    Cherry gave Shiela a big and warm grin, offering her hand for a shake. "I already heard about you, Miss Ferrer, and I am glad to see you finally."


    Shiela smiled back timidly, intimidated a little by Cherry''s beautiful outward attributes. "I''m glad to meet you, as well, Miss Perez."


    Cherry chuckled before replying. "Since we are now looking forward to a long term partnership, how about calling each other by our first name except during board meetings?"


    "I''d love that," Allie replied, "I believe that a successful business partnership comes from a healthy relationship."


    "So be it, Shie?"


    Shiela nodded and smiled shyly to both of them, too overwhelmed to grasp for the right words to say.


    There was silence for a moment, and somehow, Allie tried to break it. There was no common topic yet to talk about except for business matters. "By the way, Shie, I would like to invite you to our island getaway on Sunday."


    Shiela''s eyes widened in surprise and awe that even if she was just a newbie in the company, Allie and Cherry welcomed her warmly. "Sure, Miss Allie. I felt so valued for being invited. Thank you so much."


    "Speaking of that, Zheen, I''m having a second thought."


    Allie''s face sank in frustration. The outing wouldn''t be as fun as having her around. "Why?"


    "It''s because I met mom two days ago..."


    "What?" Allie exclaimed loudly, startled by the news. A few days ago, they met her in Vietnam, and they were all so careful not to mention it. They knew that her mom was her greatest wound, unhealed even with the passing years.


    Cherry then proceeded to tell her the whole story about how they met and how she decided to forgive her without bringing up the past. Forgiveness means forgetting everything that happened without the need to rule out who was at fault.


    "I''m sorry, Che, but I am glad that you have reconciled. Finally, you can now move on fully without the load in your heart," Allie said as she wrapped her with a warm and comforting hug.


    "Yes, but I am so bothered. Mom''s means of coping up with her guilt and loneliness is through the use of narcotics, resulting in her worsening heart failure."


    Allie''s eyes grew wide in shock. She met her mom a few days ago and, in the way she talked, never gave them some hints of her addiction. Shiela got horrified as well, judging by the startled expression of her face but she still felt out of place to share her opinion


    "Did she admit her use of illegal drugs?"


    "No, Zheen, and I believe she is telling the truth. What her doctor and I get confused about, is that she and the rest of the patients who suffered the same case, confess their love for Myrtle Shade."


    "What''s wrong with Myrtle Shade? I also love that!"


    "No!" Shiela suddenly exclaimed, and the two ladies who unintentionally put her out of the conversation turned to her with wide eyes.


    Shiela suddenly turned pale, and they saw her hands shaking at her side. Allie moved swiftly towards her, held one of her hands, and took her to the couch. They did not realize that they were just standing the whole time.


    "Shie, what''s wrong?" Allie and Cherry almost asked simultaneously, worried at her almost fainting disposition.


    "It''s the Myrtle Shade."


    "How much do you know about Myrtle Shade?" the two ladies chorused, now sure that there was something amiss in it.


    "It''s not in the coffee. The coffee comes from the choicest Arabica beans so that no one could find fault in it. It is also superior in taste because the company sets strict rules in brewing, storing, and blending. You know, these factors affect the taste of the coffee."


    Cherry and Allie looked at each other and locked their gazes for a while, sending both of their speculation that Shiela knew many things about the substance.


    "What do you exactly mean?" Cherry whispered, trying hard not to scare Shiela away. Little did anyone among them knew how she wanted to strangle Shiela to speak out what she knew about the substance.


    "I''m sorry for scaring you both, but please don''t drink Myrtle Shade as much as possible. As for the reason why, I can''t tell you."


    Cherry sank in despair. How could she place both of them in a hanging situation? "Shie, please. What do you know about it? My mother''s health lies in it. You can trust both of us."


    Shiela''s eyes suddenly turned red, and tears slipped in her eyes. The two ladies understood the seriousness of the matter. After a long wait that made Cherry and Allie stare at each other anxiously, Shiela finally opened her mouth to speak.


    "it''s not in the coffee, but it is in the creamer, in which the inspecting authority may have overlooked. The substance comes from a plant that looks like a Myrtle, and its effect is ten times more powerful than methamphetamines."


    Shiela looked up and found Allie and Cherry''s faces in utter shock. She got more worried, but these women easily trusted and treated her like a real family member. Thus, they also deserved her trust.


    "Che, Miss Allie, I could get killed because of this information."

 Chapter 183 - The Secret Behind Myrtle Shade

    "Where do you get this information?"


    Allie finally got the nerve to ask. She had been a spy to a syndicate and had run away for her life, so she knew very well the risk of telling such information. Just who was Shiela? Was she right in her decision to accept their business partnership?


    "I''m sorry, Miss Allie. That''s all I can tell. Just warn your whole family about the use of the creamer. I would like you to know also that the real Myrtle Shade substance is not incorporated in all the flavors, especially those that are best-sellers in the market, but it''s in the most expensive one."


    Seeing that Cherry and Allie just stood gaping at what she revealed, Shiela continued. "And these expensive ones are not available in the shops for selling. The company distributed it secretly. The people in the black market know about this."


    "By the way, Shie, does this possibly mean that mom has access to the black market?" Cherry dared to ask, her mother''s life was at stake after all. She could even hear the loud pounding of her heartbeat, louder than the voice of Shiela.


    "Where do you get this information?"


    "I can''t tell, Miss Che. It is also possible that someone just gives it to her. The strength of the substance placed in each sachet varies from medium to strong. And the strong ones are used in  revenge."


    "The effect of the substance is deceptive. The release of the dopamine in the brain that can give the user the feeling of pleasure, confidence, and energy is gradual but steady. So the users can stay in the state of euphoria for many days. But those who are highly addicted will completely lose their mind and their memory. If an enemy uses it for secret revenge, he does not necessarily kill."


    "For a while, Shie, why are those coffee shop goers are addicted to Myrtle Shade?" Allie asked, still unable to get all the answers she wanted to ask.


    "It''s because it''s in the syrup the attendants used as sweeteners. The sweeter the coffee, the higher the substance content."


    "Shie, why do you know all of these?" Cherry asked, her knees shaking as she imagined the risk Shiela placed herself.


    "I was a victim."


    "How are you able to get out of this?"


    "When the biggest shabu lab in the country crumbled down, the authority arrested my abductor as one of the leaders of the syndicate."


    Allie and Cherry looked at each other. How could they ever tell her that Allie''s biological father was only one of them?"


    "You did not lose your memory?"


    "I did not because while they made sure that I drink the coffee, someone also help me take the antidote."


    "It has an antidote?" Allie''s eyes got wider as she heard this.


    "Yes, it''s in the flower of the same plant. Someone concocted it for me."


    Before the two could get over from their shock, the phone in the office rang. Allie glanced between Shiela and Cherry as if the incoming had something related to their topic. Though none of them speak about it, they knew the danger behind the revelation, and Shiela''s entanglement was not that simple.


    Shiela looked back at her with the eyes of a trusting dove, and that moved her. Instead of picking up the phone, she stretched out her arms and pulled Shiela for a warm embrace.


    "I understand you very well, Shie. Trust us, and we could be friends for a lifetime."


    Allie''s words were like a balm to her shattered heart that her tears began to flow. Ashamed of her uncontrolled emotion, she laughed and brushed her tears away.


    "Thank you so much," she said, but suddenly, she became helpless and unable to hold back her urge to sob.


    Cherry approached her as well and hugged her tight. "We can be a family, Shie."


    Allie then left the two of them and answered the phone. It was her secretary telling her that Ryan was on her desk, asking to talk to her.


    "Let him in."


    Cherry had just released Shiela from her embrace when the door to the office opened, and Ryan''s big grin greeted them. His smile was contagious, and the ladies except Shiela greeted him back with enthusiasm.


    "Hello, Mr. Ryan Neil Yu!" Cherry chuckled as she uttered his full name that she knew he hated.


    Ryan feigned a displeased look before he chuckled back. His eyes were on Shiela while the latter looked away. "There''s only one whom I remember calling me my second name."


    "Eheem. I should be guessing who," Allie laughed as she followed his eyes to the deeply blushing Shiela.


    "Oh, you seem to be keeping a secret from me. It''s unfair!" Cherry blurted while her eyes also strayed to Shiela.


    "Hello, Miss Ferrer!" came the deep baritone voice of Ryan, highlighted by his twinkling eyes, which made Allie and Cherry smile.


    Shiela forced herself to look up and tried to conceal her escape from the ladies'' suspicion.


    "Mr.Yu, I am sorry. I was a bit emotional a while ago, and my eyes are showing."


    "Isn''t Mr. Yu too formal to address your crush, Miss Ferrer?"


    Shiela looked up and threw him an angry look, her face as red as a crimson cloud. Before she could rant out, Ryan laughed and walked closer to her and held her hand. "I''m only joking, Miss Ferrer. Please call me by my name, and I will call you the same. Just as how all of us here do."


    "Ryan, if you don''t mind, do you have a girlfriend?"


    Ryan turned to her in an amused look, while stealing a glance at Shiela who pretended to check a message on her phone.


    "I had."


    "Had?" Cherry clarified, "And what about the present?"


    "Dad always told me that I should stick to one woman only. So the women I have now are not my girlfriends; they are only flings."


    Cherry''s eyes got wide and then pretended to get horrified. "What? Were you not in love even once?"


    "Miss Shiela can answer that for me."

 Chapter 184 - Secret Forever

    All colors left Shiela''s face as she realized that Ryan might expose their past to them. Even she did not wish to look back at the poignant memories she tried to leave behind. It was a nightmare she thought she had struggled hard to overcome, but here he was, stripping back the still fresh, non-healing wound inside her heart.


    "Do I know you that much, Mr. Yu?" she said, flashing him an angry gaze as sharp as her tone.


    "Come on, Shiela, you take everything seriously. I am just kidding around," he chuckled, easing the tension that built inside her.


    Shiela sighed and threw a glare at him, glad that she stood behind the two women, who could not see her full reaction. Somehow, she also thought that perhaps, her new friends just made it easy for her.


    "Please stop teasing me, Mr. Yu. I could not ride along well with jokes," she said, almost tempted to say," especially those that come from you."


    Cherry interrupted again, casting them an unbelieving gaze as she shifted her eyes from Shiela to Ryan. "You sure you don''t know each other?"


    Shiela sighed and cleared her throat, trying to ease her racing heartbeats while Ryan remained standing in his place, watching her with an amused look. Perhaps, he waited to hear what kind of alibi she could come up with.


    "Honestly, we went to the same university and even took a few subjects together. Well, almost all the students, including me, knew him because he was popular."


    "What about the present?" Ryan teased, his eyes sparkling as he laughed, highlighting his handsome features.


    "I''m sorry, Mr. Yu, I don''t have updates from you anymore after college," she replied with a smirk, but then muttered softly under her breath, rolling her eyes sideways in hatred, "you disappeared like bubbles, you know that very well."


    "What did you say?" Ryan followed up; his smile disappeared from his lips.


    "Nothing!"


    Cherry and Allie remained looking down while stealing a glance at Ryan. Something in his eyes told her that he knew Shiela more than just a schoolmate.


    "Talking to yourself is not a good sign, Miss Ferrer," said Ryan, as his lips curved again into a teasing smile.


    To end their awkward exchanges, Shiela turned to Allie and Cherry, giving them an apologetic smile.


    "I''m sorry, Che, Miss Allie. I really hated him because he exposed my cheating during one of our exams, and because of that, the school eliminated me from the dean''s list. He was too inconsiderate even if he knew that I had just recovered from an illness." Shiela explained, trying to sound as believable as possible.


    The two women gaped at what she said before a round of laughter erupted from both of them, but she could never fool them. Her actions spoke louder than words.


    "Very well said, dear," you make us all..." Ryan replied, but before he could finish, Shiela cut her off.


    "Stop it, Neil!" Shiela scowled, earning herself a laughter from Ryan and the speculating gazes of the two ladies.


    A realization dawned on the two ladies that Shiela was the only woman who called Ryan his second name. And that may have a special meaning for him, making them both feel the thrill.


    "Practice makes us perfect, dear, so do it until you are very good at making lies," Ryan said, causing Shiela to flush deeper, realizing her foolish mistake.


    Ashamed of her silly move in exposing herself, she made a quick excuse and stormed out of the office. She knew Ryan was only wearing a mask and that his gentleness was merely a facade. She rushed out of the building and drove throughout the city aimlessly. Her guilt for the baby and her anger at Ryan began haunting her again. She got no one to talk to, not even her father. She knew she would be risking her life should she tell somebody about her dark secret.


    Once she reached a less crowded place, she pulled over to the side and picked up her phone from a bag. She scanned the contact list and stared at her father''s name, thinking many times if telling him the truth would be right. She closed her eyes after pressing the call icon and allowed her heart to pond loudly as it could until the voice of her father on the other line, jolted her back to reality.


    "Shiela?"


    "Pa."


    Suddenly, Shiela did not know how to start the conversation. All the lines she mastered in her mind disappeared like a strayed breeze on a hot afternoon. She knew she had to make the first move before Ryan could stir up lies in his father''s mind.


    "What do you have in mind? Are you alright?"


    "I''m not, Pa. If you only know how scared I am right at the moment," she thought, but before she could speak it out, the welling emotion inside her heart overflowed, and she couldn''t help herself but cry.


    "Shiela? What''s wrong? You make me worry!"


    Her sob got louder, and though an impatient sigh of her father heaved out from the end of the line, he patiently waited.


    "What is it, love? I''m willing to listen."


    Pushing the courage out of herself, Shiela finally got the strength to talk. "Pa, I don''t deserve to be your child. I lied and cheated on you."


    There was silence for a moment, and Shiela''s heartbeats got wilder in each passing minute. After what seemed like an eternity, she heard him spoke again.


    "Shiela, how about talking about this personally?"


    "No, pa. I don''t have the courage, but please just listen to me first."


    "Then tell me about it."


    "Pa, when I graduated, I was five months pregnant, and I didn''t go to Japan to work."


    There was silence again, and Shiela felt her heart bursting. She rather wanted to hear him shouting or cursing at her. She would have understood.


    She closed her eyes as she continued, she had to do it now that she got the courage. Or she might never dare again. Her fear might be tearing her apart, but her father deserved to know the truth.


    "I really planned to work in a far place, but the father of my boyfriend took me away until I gave birth."


    "And where is the child, Shiela?"


    "The doctor told me I lost him due to cord coil. I did not see him, Pa, they only showed me the grave."


    "Tell me who your boyfriend is, Shiela! Now!"


    For the first time in her life, it was the first time she heard him shout at her in anger. His voice made him tremble in fear and guilt, but she still managed to answer him.


    "I''m sorry, Pa. That would be my secret forever."

 Chapter 185 - The Islet

    The sky was still dark when Mr. Angelo''s private helicopter landed on the beautiful islet that Ryan owned. Surrounded by the sprawling body of water that glittered in silver lights, the first glimpse into the place gave everyone the impression of immersing into an enchanted paradise. Several outdoor post lamps surrounded the whole area, lighting up the entire shoreline. The breathtaking view of the beach house, the well-crafted landscapes, and the vast pool which broke into two narrow dimensions, winding through the edge of the islet, greeted them.


    The moment the group descended from the helicopter, Ryan met and greeted them with a wide smile. He was only wearing a floral, beach shorts, paired with a black shirt, hugging his lean body, and a pair of slippers, a different image from his usual business attire. During the cruise, though everyone else wear casual wears, he often showed up with black or denim jeans, paired with a polo shirt.


    "Welcome, everyone!" Ryan hollered enthusiastically, his voice echoing into the quiet and beautiful haven. He stretched his arms wide, hugging, and kissing all of them afterward.


    "You''re so gorgeous, Ryan. I wonder how you stick to the only girl in your memory!" Cherry complimented after Ryan released her.


    Ryan chuckled as his eyes went to Shiela, who pretended to look around. "I really hope she lived as I expected. But this new morning blessed me with beautiful girls to warm my eyes."


    "I did not know you''re a flatterer, Mr.Yu!" Jane, who was next to Cherry, laughed as she heard him.


    "My sweet Jane, the titleholder of being the epitome of beauty and intelligence," Ryan replied as he chuckled again and hugged her.


    "People are beauty blind. There are many beautiful ladies out there; Shiela, Allie, and Cherry, for example. They are all gorgeous as well.


    "That''s what I said exactly, but don''t call me beauty blind. I fully agree with how they call you in tabloids."


    "Nah, forget it. Let''s enjoy the getaway, instead!" Jane replied with a soft laugh, highlighting his captivating beauty even more.


    Shiela found an excuse to avoid Ryan because he was still talking to Jane, and the elderlies followed next. She walked fast and caught up with Cherry, who walked to the side to watch the course of the pool.


    "Wow! It''s so beautiful," Shiela exclaimed as her eyes wandered to the hanging garden, where some stalks cascaded beautifully from the racks and served as a canopy to the flowing stream replica.


    "I''m glad you like it," came the voice of Ryan, which startled her. Shiela looked over her shoulder, and Ryan was there, hovering over her. She felt her heart skip a beat as she quickly took in his attractiveness, his damn, natural charm, which lured her into submission.


    "I honestly do," she gave out a faint smile while her eyes locked with his for a moment. Ryan stared at her lips, and she felt that at any moment, he might grab a kiss. She hurriedly looked away, and before she could think of some words to say, Ryan spoke first.


    "Che, Shiela, let''s all get inside so I can show you your rooms. You may take a rest first while my staff prepares our breakfast."


    The interior design was no less captivating than the outside view. Created in contemporary taste and complemented with elegant furniture, one could tell that Ryan was particular and meticulous in arts and designs.


    "I see you have a great taste, Ry," Allie commented. "Your place is breathtaking."


    "I agree," Ajie seconded as he also looked around the room while carrying Chloe in his arm.


    The rest also gave their compliments, awed by the beautiful blend of natural beauty outside, which could be seen through the glass walls and the human-made beauty as displayed everywhere they set their eyes on.


    "Thanks, everyone. I think I just got the best interior designer," he paused as he laughed then continued, "Come, I''ll show you to your room. I know you need a rest. Breakfast is ready by eight and then let''s chat."


    He led Mr.& Mrs. Lopez first, Mr.Dioko next, Allie and Ajie, then Jane and Cherry. Shiela grew uncomfortable when she realized she was the last. How many rooms does this house had, she thought, is there still a room left for her?


    While still entertaining her thoughts, Ryan came, and when she lifted her head to look at him, he was already holding her suitcase. "Dreamgirl, come here. It''s your turn."


    "Neil, please don''t pretend your kindness. I can accommodate myself. A few days ago, your eyes emitted fire and brimstone while looking at me, and now you''re acting. If only I knew ahead that we would be coming to your place..." she hissed as she said as she looked around, making sure no one was listening.


    "There''s a lot of time for that. But as of now, you better follow me."


    Shiela stood up and glared at him, but Ryan placed an arm around her shoulder, dragging her heavy legs to follow him.


    "Put your arms down!" she ordered and wriggled to free herself, but Ryan pulled her tighter.


    "Be good if you don''t want me to reveal who you are in my life!" he fired back angrily and put more force as he dragged her further into the end of a corridor.


    Before they reached a wooden door, Shiela heard a clicking sound as if someone from inside was opening the door. Ryan pulled out his arm around her immediately as if he was afraid to be caught. She froze when a tall and beautiful figure came out and smiled at Ryan. Dear skies, she was so beautiful! Her soft, brown curls cupped her face, and her big but gentle eyes spoke of a kind of beauty where anyone would find it hard to look away.


    "Ryan, sweetheart," she said as she threw her arms around his neck," are your guests here already?"


    "Yes, and Shiela is one of them," Ryan answered as he looked at her. "Shie, I''d like you to meet Jullien."

 Chapter 186 - The Islet Mystery 2

    Shiela felt her heart and mind stop working for a second that she did not know how to react. Ryan may not have introduced her as his girlfriend, but their actions and endearment said it all. A pang of pain wrapped her heart, and she did not understand. She hated him for what he did, and she knew she had no right to get hurt. Jullien was so beautiful and elegant, even with no makeup, and they looked good together.


    "Hello, Miss Jullien," she said while forcing herself to smile, her eyes noticing his arm around her waist.


    "Hello, Shiela. Just Jullien, please. You''re one of Ryan''s friends, and if he calls you by your name, then I''ll be doing the same. Don''t you think I''m right, sweetheart?"


    "You are. Now, go back to sleep. I''ll be showing Shiela to her room."


    "Okay, then. I''ll be waiting inside," Jullien said with her sweetest smile Shiela could imagine, and Ryan moved forward to hold the door open for her.


    Jullien waved a hand at her and smiled before she slipped inside the door. Ryan closed the door, and then he paused to look at her. Shiela felt he wanted to see her reaction, and despite her heavy heart, she returned his gaze and tried to pretend she was not affected.


    "Let''s go," he said, and if they were to make a bet, she knew that Ryan would have wanted to go inside the room with Jullien. She saw it in her eyes, and that hurt her.


    She nodded and followed him, taking note of the fact that Ryan no longer held her. Soon, Ryan stopped in front of a door and opened it. She noticed that it was next to the exit door of the house so that the room would be overlooking the outside view. The thought of it made her glad; at least she had nature to sympathize with her aching heart as she always did ever since she suffered because of his irresponsibility.


    "Here we are," Ryan''s voice jolted her once again to reality. She hated herself; her mind just wouldn''t stop imagining things.


    She nodded and looked around the room, and the pleasant, masculine scent greeted her nostrils. As she expected, the wall across the door where she stood was pure glass, and a king-sized bed, covered in white and grey sheets, was beside it.  A thick grey curtain hanged halfway at the sides, the top down to the middle part being pulled aside by a white cord, opening up to the world outside. She could imagine herself looking down at the spectacular view the nature provided while lying on the bed.


    Her eyes roamed to the other part of the room. There was a four-seater table on the other side of the glass wall, which the curtain concealed. Not so far from it was a wooden desk and a laptop, and closer to where she stood was a sofa set. Whatever other things in it, she could tell he neatly placed in built-in drawers and closets.


    "I''ll leave you here to fix yourself. The bathroom is there, and you may place your things in the closet. Just open it all up, so you will see where you get everything you need."


    Shiela stared at him, wondering why he seemed to offer her the best accommodation. The room was too spacious and beautiful for a guestroom. Perhaps, she thought, this was how rich Ryan was. She knew it ever since in college though he didn''t show it even to her. What made her wonder the most was how this room was all fixed in grey. Though she knew it was his favorite color, he didn''t have to color all other parts of the house with this same dull color.


    "Okay, thank you," was all Shiela could reply.


    Her heart was still bursting with mixed emotions ever since she learned while at the aircraft that they would be staying at Ryan''s island home. And it was just not a simple beach house but a paradise. In her heart, she was proud that he was successful. She was aware that he had the resources, but she didn''t realize he could grow as great as how this property hinted.


    She hurriedly pulled out a set of sleepwear from her suitcase. The trip may not be that long, but she lacked sleep due to fear that she lacked something or that she might not be able to wake up before their departure. This was such a cozy place to sleep, and even her emotion wouldn''t be able to stop her. It''s the wonder about her that surprised even herself. No matter how depressed she was, she could still manage herself a sound sleep.


    After taking a quick, hot shower, she closed the curtains and dropped herself to the bed. In a few hours, the sun would begin to appear, and she didn''t want it to disturb her. She set her alarm clock to eight in the morning and placed her phone at the bedside table.


    The image of Jullien floated in her mind as soon as her head touched the pillow. Perhaps, Ryan was already there, cuddling her tight. She was so sweet, and no man could resist his charm. Her thoughts went wild, and she imagined him undressing Jullien as he kissed her, exactly the way he did to her. She could still memorize the steps he usually did, and now he was doing it to Jullien and to the many flings he mentioned.


    Her thoughts also went back to her confession to his father. She already anticipated that he would start investigating who her boyfriend was, but as much as possible, it shouldn''t come from her. His father may be a sweet person to her, but she also knew he was a beast to whoever may hurt her. She even remembered one time where she got into a fight, and his father did not waste time in assaulting her enemy. She knew he was not just threatening him with his words.


    "I''m ready to live behind bars should you hurt my daughter again! I''m giving you a chance. You don''t want to discover yourself giving your last breath, do you?"


    This statement rang in her mind again and again, and this kept her from confessing to her father. No matter how irresponsible Ryan was, she could never allow his father to hurt him. She loved this man, and he was her first and maybe the last.


    Just a few meters from where she was, she imagined him naked with Jullien, and with the conducive environment around her to pour out her feelings, she started to cry hard until her exhaustion put her to deep sleep.


    The loud ringing of her phone woke her up, and she realized a weight on her body pressed her down. She looked down and realized she was sleeping on a man''s arm, and her back was pressed snugly to a warm body. An arm and a leg wrapped around her that she couldn''t move. Her heart started to pound, and when she looked up, she saw Ryan''s handsome face, sleeping peacefully.

 Chapter 187 - The Islet Mystery 3

    "Neil!" Shiela shouted as she tried to move away from him. She hated herself for sleeping like a lard that she never noticed him coming in.


    "I''m sleeping. Don''t you dare disturb me," he replied lazily, and Shiela got horrified. She pushed harder, but Ryan pulled her tighter.


    "How dare you? I may have consented in coming here, but I never intend to fall into your lies again."


    "Stop it! You''re so noisy," Ryan answered, then she buried his face in her hair.


    "Neil, your girlfriend, is waiting in her room. Why are you here?"


    "Where do you want me to sleep? This is my room. You really want me with Jullien?"


    "I don''t care whoever is with you. It''s long over between us!"


    "But I miss you. Don''t you miss me, too?"


    "The day you left me all alone is the day I stopped thinking about you."


    "Shiela, I already told you. What power do I have against my parents? We were still young at that time, but I told them about you. I never expected that the last time we went to the USA for a vacation, was the last time I set my foot in the country. I was only allowed to go back three years ago and believed me, I was worried about you."


    "Worrying is not a good excuse," she said, and her voice started to crack, "and while you were enjoying in a foreign land, I was living with fear."


    "Shiela, where is our son? I called up the doctor, and she said our son was healthy in your womb."


    Shiela cried as she heard this. Perhaps, there was truth to what Ryan said. Maybe, he indeed cared; and she knew that his parents were someone whose words were laws to the people surrounding them.


    "He was, but my loneliness killed him. I was alone, Neil, and I had no one to talk to. You were not there," she cried harder when she said this, and Ryan held her closer.


    "Shie, while a part of me still believes that you cannot afford to kill our child, I can still forgive you. Just tell me the whole truth because if I can prove that my parents maltreated you and did something to the child, I can also kill them."


    A scene of that poignant memory eight years ago flashed before her. "Shiela, don''t ever tell anyone that we keep you here. Not even Ryan. The day our son will know about this will be the day that your father and your aunt will step into their grave. Do you understand?"


    "No parents can kill their blood, Neil."


    "So it comes from your own mouth. So, where is the child, Shiela?"


    "I lost him."


    "My questions are simple. If you lost our child, at least tell me where is his grave so that I can give him the honor of making him a good resting place."


    "I left him at the hospital. I didn''t know where they placed him."


    "What is the name of the hospital because they will have to answer for me."


    Ryan''s anger and desire to know the truth convinced Shiela that Ryan was sincere, and if only his parents gave him the chance before, he would never turn his back on her and his child. Thinking about his parent''s threat, the death of her loved ones if she would betray them, and Ryan''s anger to his parents scared her to her core that she didn''t know what''s right anymore.


    She turned to her other side and faced Ryan. Seeing his dark eyes and the sincerity of his expression melted her even more. Her guilt towards all of them confused her and to stop Ryan from pestering about the child''s whereabouts, she burrowed her face in his chest.


    "I''m sorry, Neil. I''m so scared!"


    Ryan hugged her and ran his fingers on top of her head. "Sweetheart, please tell me what scares you. Let''s talk about it."


    "I want to live, Neil. I want all of us to go on living."


    "And who said you''re going to die?"


    "Thinking about the loss of our child will kill me."


    Ryan sighed and conceded. He needed a longer time to find out the truth. He lifted her face up and held her nape, and without asking her permission, he bent his head down and claimed her lips. Shiela felt her heart hammering against her chest.  This was wrong, and she shouldn''t allow herself to get carried away. She still remembered his parent''s conditions in setting her free, and that was to promise them that she would stay away from him if ever their paths would cross again.


    "Neil, this is wrong," she said as she pushed him away.


    "What''s wrong with this? We had been doing this for a long time."


    "But your girlfriend is out there..." Shiela couldn''t think of something else to push him away.


    "Quiet," he pushed Shiela back to the bed with a little force and began kissing her again.


    Shiela melted in his kisses again, and before she knew it, Ryan had already pulled out the tie of her sleeping robe. Her mind wanted to push him away, but her heart and her body received his touch eagerly. When Ryan went to the extent of sliding her underwear off its place, she realized she lost her guard once again.


    "Ryan, no!" she clenched her legs, but her desire held her powerless when he began nibbling the insides of her thighs until his mouth claimed the last part that held her feminine dignity.


    As he began thrusting deep inside her, he bent down and whispered. "Would you believe me if I say that I have loved no one else but you? And may I ask you, Shie, was there anyone after me?"


    Torn between the pleasure of the moment and the sweetness of his revelation, she told him the innermost longings of her heart. "There was only you."


    "Was?" he taunted further while his deep and low thrusts drove her mad with pleasure and desire.


    "I still love you, Niel, with all my life," she said while panting, her fingers burrowing in his back.

 Chapter 188 - The Islet Mystery 4

    "I''ll take a quick shower first, then I''ll wait for you in the dining room," Ryan said as he stood up from the bed, leaving her overwhelmed by the unexpected turn of events. She stared at him, too lost for words to reply. Seeing her reaction, Ryan bent down and gave her a quick kiss before walking up to the bathroom.


    The sound of the splashing water inside the bathroom warmed her heart. Love and excitement filled her heart, and she almost couldn''t contain it. She wanted to go after him just like before, but a small voice of her conscience said no. She shouldn''t allow herself to fall for him again, or else she would be courting for her doom. She knew how powerful his parents were, even if iron bars had put barriers to the spreading of their wickedness.


    She wondered if Ryan knew about this. Of course, parents never wanted their children to know about their illegal deeds. If he was running his parents'' old business, he shouldn''t have come out of the open. He should not have exposed himself, granting that he was the son of a syndicate leader and that their businesses would surely be under surveillance.


    Her train of thoughts pulled to a halt when the door from the bathroom opened. Ryan went out with a white towel around his waist. He glanced at her and called out, "It''s your turn, dear."


    Shiela did not move. She just watched him picking out an underwear inside a drawer and putting it on in front of her. Then he opened up a closet and pulled out something to wear. Once he got his pair of clothes, he turned to her again.


    "You still have not placed your things inside the closet."


    Shiela replied as she got up, realizing that Ryan assigned her indeed to his room. "Neil, is this really your room?"


    Ryan chuckled softly and replied, "Sweetheart, what do you think? Should I place my things in someone else''s room?"


    "Why do you assign me here and not your girlfriend?" Shiela asked, wondering how Jullien would react once she would know she''s staying in his room.


    "This is my house, dear, and I have control over everything."


    "You know exactly what I mean," she insisted, pulling herself up and rested her back on the board.


    Ryan walked up to her and sealed his mouth over hers, silencing the many questions she wanted to ask.  "Now, get up, take a shower, and change before I also change my mind. The people are already waiting for us."


    "Neil, can I just stay?" Jullien would be there, and she was not ready yet to see her and Ryan together.


    "Do you want them to look for you and find out that you are sleeping with me?"


    "Why? Are you also afraid that they''ll find it out?" She stopped breathing for a while. She was too foolish to ask the question to which she knew the answer. Jullien was there, and she expected him to introduce her instead.


    Ryan stared at her, and she knew he was reading her mind. Before he could say his reply, she spoke. "You don''t have to answer that, Neil, I''m sorry."


    Ryan gave her a faint smile before he stood and left the room. "Be sure to lock the door, sweetheart."


    Shiela gathered her thoughts back and asked herself if all that happened was real. He could see his sincerity, and he even assigned her to his room. She could feel his emotion when they made love, but still, insecurities gripped her. He knew ahead of their coming, but why did he invite Jullien? What would Jullien feel if she would suspect them sleeping together? It was impossible to say that she was just a mere friend. The way Jullien looked into his eyes as she wrapped around his neck, spoke of her desire to devour him. And the tender way Ryan responded told her that he cared for Jullien. He didn''t even make an effort to explain when she mentioned her name many times as his girlfriend.


    She took a shower and changed into a sleeveless romper. She then pulled out her makeup kit and fixed herself a light makeup, applying a brown-peach lipstick afterward to conceal her swollen lips. Satisfied with her looks, she took a deep breath, whispering a prayer to give her strength to whatever trials she would face ahead.


    Everyone was already at the table, even Chloe, whom she expected to be still sleeping after the trip. She felt ashamed, knowing that all eyes would be on her.


    "Good morning, everyone!" she said shyly, thinking that she was too late in coming.


    "Good morning," they all chorused in response as they lifted their eyes at her, and judging by their looks, her choice of attire must have surprised all of them. She realized that it was still the first time they saw her that way; she always came to the office in pants and in long-sleeved blouses.


    Ryan stood up and pulled out a chair for her, but her heart sank when she saw that Jullien sat next to him while the chair he pulled out was across the two of them.


    "You must be tired, Shie. You slept longer," Allie commented as soon as she settled on her seat.


    "I am. I didn''t sleep last night."


    "I guess you were crying all night. I just didn''t realize it earlier."


    Shiela cast a weak smile at Cherry, indicating that she made a right guess. If only Cherry knew that she was crying,  not only last night but also earlier this morning. She stole a glance across her and saw that Ryan was staring at her. Jullien, beside him, was also looking at her, and the more she felt uncomfortable.


    Ryan stood up and poured a cup of coffee and placed it before her. "Do you like creamer? You can pick your choice," Ryan said as he handed her a tray with all the flavors of Myrtle Shade. Her eyes widened in shock, but she quickly concealed it.


    "I like it black, Mr. Yu," she answered as she looked up, and Ryan responded with a smirk.


    "As you wish, Miss Ferrer," Ryan replied, and Cherry burst out in laughter, which had others laugh as well.


    "Can you both stop being silly?"

 Chapter 189 - The Islet Mystery 5

    Ryan looked up in feigned surprise, and Shiela felt like wax, melting against a fire. "Che, what''s wrong?"


    "My goodness, Ryan! Can you stop the formalities? My insides tumble down every time I hear you both doing that."


    "You should talk to Miss Ferrer," Ryan replied and gave her a wink, stealing Shiela a glance as she flushed like she had just an allergy attack.


    "Shiela, do you hear that?" Cherry teased her as she broke into another round of laughter.


    "Stop it, Che. Miss Ferrer might collapse."


    This made everyone burst in laughter once more, and Shiela felt like crying. Ryan approached her and hugged her from behind, laughing. "Relax, dear. It''s just a joke. Are you sure you like black?"


    Ryan pulled out the tray of creamers began demonstrating it to her. "I saw you once at a coffee shop, and if I remember correctly, you choose cappuccino. Here are other choices as well; mocha latte, french vanilla, mocha, hazelnut..."


    "Thanks for bothering, but I like black."


    "And what''s with that hug? Jullien is watching," Cherry threw her tactless tongue again.


    Jullien laughed and replied, "It''s alright, dear. I''m used to his sweetness to everybody. It doesn''t mean anything."


    Shiela stiffened and did not know how to react, but then Mr. Dioko butted in, worsening her ordeal.


    "Shiela, dear, you missed our introduction. Please, meet Miss Jullien. He is Ryan''s fiancee."


    Shiela looked up and met Ryan''s gaze. She quickly looked away and smiled at Mr. Dioko, "Yes, sir. I already met Miss Jullien earlier this morning.


    Everyone saw the hurt in Shiela''s eyes, except Jullien, who got distracted by a message on her phone. They were all sure now that she had a past with Ryan, and inviting her here might be a mistake. Ajie tried to bring up a topic that would make Shiela relax.


    "What will be our activity later, Ry?" Ajie asked, diverting Ryan''s attention to Shiela and Jullien.


    "I have arranged for an island-hopping later on. We can also go scuba diving, surfing, and canoeing."


    "Oh, I love that," Jane responded eagerly. "Shie, are you prepared?" Jane tried to involve her in the conversation, knowing that if she''s only alone, she would already be crying her heart out.


    "Yes, Jane," she answered, "I''m preparing myself to go wild."


    "Indeed. Let''s maximize the moment while we are away from work and activities in the city."


    "I agree," Shiela answered.


    "While waiting for the right time to go out for an island hopping, there''s a spot at the edge of the islet where everyone can enjoy. It''s a space as big as our pool under a canopy of a big tree."


    "And what makes it different from the pool?" Mrs. Lopez asked.


    "It''s really nature''s wonder. The area is highly elevated from the seafloor and the water there is probably not connected to the rest of the seawater, making its saline concentration so much higher than the normal level. It has a high buoyancy just like the Dead Sea."


    "Wow! So, we can float and relax. I''m excited!" Jane exclaimed, tugging on her mom''s sleeve.


    "Ryan, I haven''t heard of this place before."


    "I know. This nature''s wonder is still one of those undiscovered places in the world."


    "Why don''t you announce it? You could do a business out of this."


    "Indeed, but I still choose it to be my personal treasure where I can bring my friends over. Only that you have to promise me you won''t tell anyone about this."


    "Daddy, can I also go there with you?" Chloe''s voice interrupted their conversation, and they all turned to her, including Ryan. His face softened as he looked at the child.


    "Adrian, how old is Chloe?" Ryan asked, but his eyes were on Shiela, who happened to glance up at him as he asked.


    "I''m six, uncle. Do you also have a daughter?"


    "I had a son, and he must be as big as you."


    All eyes turned to him, and Shiela''s heartbeats began running a mile per minute. Surprisingly, even Cherry did not dare to ask. She also stared at him, waiting for him to continue.


    "Where is he, uncle? Can I play with him?"


    "I lost him, baby, but someday I''ll find the truth. Don''t you think so, sweetheart?"


    Shiela looked up, and her heart pounded harder as he addressed her with an endearment he used to call her even before during college. However, Jullien, out of her love, acted stupidly, and answered for her.


    "You will, sweetheart." Jullien then wrapped her arms around him and rested her head on his chest.


    Ryan''s face turned sour, and all of them understood the reason why, except Jullien. She may be acting dumb out of jealousy, but her silly move spoiled Ryan''s mood completely. He excused himself and invited everyone to proceed to the mini-Dead Sea.


    He strode fast, and Jullien ran after him. Shiela remained staring blankly on the glass wall, and even if the view outside was spectacular, everyone around could tell that she sees nothing. They started to get worried, realizing that there was something deep that happened between them.


    Jullien came back, panting and with a worried face. She ignored them all and approached the staff who was cleaning the table. "Clara, I saw Ryan go out through the exit. Where is he going?"


    "Don''t go after him, ma''am. He must be in his secret chamber."


    "Secret chamber?" Jullien asked loudly, making all of them turn their heads in her direction.


    "Whenever he is in a bad mood, he enters his secret chamber, and when he comes out, his mood would either get back to normal or get worse."


    When Jullien disappeared, Mr. Dioko stood up and spoke. "Let''s give Ryan his privacy. How about going down to the Dead Sea?"


    Everyone agreed except Shiela, who excused herself. "I''ll go down later. I need to be alone for a while."


    Shiela walked back slowly. To her room, hoping she could find Ryan there. His reaction showed how their child''s loss affected him, and she was debating within herself if she should tell him the truth or not.


    Ryan was not inside when she entered the room. Yet, she knew he had been there because a piece of a  piano instrumental filled the room. He must have turned on the music player before he came out.

 Chapter 190 - The Islet Mystery 6

    She lay down on the bed and listened to the music. It seemed like she was listening to a hundred musicians playing their different musical instruments. The slow tempo at the beginning of the piece tickled her heart, gripping it slowly as the music rose to a crescendo. For a moment, she forgot about her heartaches as the music wrapped her heart into a beautiful feeling, allowing it to sway according to its rhythm. However, she cried for more as she felt it was about to end as it reached its loudest and fastest point, fading slowly into the background in the next moment. She swore she would feel in love with the musician if she''d watch him in actual performance.


    Then, the music changed into a soft, slow, and swaying rhythm. No matter how Shiela interpreted it, somehow, it strongly implied to her a sense of loneliness, of failure, heartache and despair. The beautiful feeling a while ago, which lifted her to the ninth cloud dropped her to an abyss of pain and miseries. She did not realize that she was already sobbing her heart out until she got so exhausted and felt sleepy.


    The bed on the other side dropped, and she didn''t dare to turn to him. She didn''t want him to see her crying because she didn''t like him to see her hurting because of Jullien. It only reminded her of the things in life she could never have, and that was the fulfillment of her love. Ryan''s parents made it clear to her; she could never be with the man she loved.


    Ryan wrapped her in his arms and pulled her tighter into himself. Neither of them said a word, and only their warmth communicated. With the top of her head nestled under her chin and his body close to her, she felt secure, even though it was only for a borrowed time. She held Ryan''s hand in her chest and drifted off to sleep.


    Ryan sat up and stared at her for a long while before pulling the sheets upward to cover her up to the neck. He drew in a deep breath, and expelled it into a sigh before striding towards the door. He must be seeing his guests; he invited them, after all.


    "Ryan, you''re here!" Cherry greeted him first, and he responded with a broad smile, warming everyone''s hearts.


    "I hope everyone is enjoying it here."


    "We are," all of them replied, almost in a chorus.


    "Ryan, can we go island hopping the next day? I love to spend more time here," Jane said with a begging, beautiful eyes.


    "That''s if it''s alright with everyone. I don''t want to spoil one''s excitement."


    "We talked about it, dear. We also don''t want to go without Shiela," said Mrs. Lopez.


    "Care to join us, Ry?" Ajie offered, and Ryan broke into a smile before he replied, "Sure, I''ll get some food first."


    "Ryan, where''s Jullien? I wonder if she likes to join us also," Allie hollered as she was in the farthest end of the so-called mini-Dead Sea.


    "She may be doing something else, but she sure likes to join. I''ll ask her."


    Ryan left again and instructed the kitchen staff to bring food to the guests. Then, he picked up his phone and called Jullien. "Won''t you like to join the guests on Chara?"


    "Sure, if you want me there."


    "You know what to do, Jullien."


    "As you wish, my dear."


    Ryan went back to his room and found Shiela sobbing in her sleep. He frowned as he sat down beside her. He touched her shoulders and shook her gently, thinking that she''s having a nightmare.


    "No! My baby can''t be dead. I just heard him cry. Please give him to me. Don''t take him away from me. I will hide the baby from him. Please..."


    Ryan froze, and he dropped his hand unconsciously. The hospital record and that signature of that agreement for several million might not be true...He knew all too well that nightmares could be a fragment of a real event appearing in one''s memory through dreams. And these nightmares reappear whenever that poignant memories return.


    When Shiela''s sobbing seemed to choke her out of breath, Ryan scooped her up into his arms. Shiela got startled for a moment, and when she looked up and saw Ryan''s face, she calmed down.


    "Shiela, what makes you cry always? It''s no longer healthy. Why don''t you speak up to me? I''m willing to listen."


    "I''m not crying," she replied with a faint smile, staring into the hand she placed in his chest rather than in his eyes.


    "I watched you before I sat down beside you here."


    "While I''m asleep?" she confirmed, hoping she was right.


    ''No. Before you slept in my arms."


    That was one of the sweetest words she heard from him, and even after this borrowed time, she would treasure this forever. "Right. I was listening to the music you played, and it made me cry."


    "Why does it make you cry?" Ryan tried hard to be gentle, and a little piece of truth he got one at a time would be enough.


    "The music was so beautiful, Neil, and I swear this. If I see the pianist one day, I''ll fall in love with him."


    Ryan chuckled and bent down to kiss her forehead. "You make me jealous of him."


    "But you can''t be mine, Neil. I''m here on a borrowed time."


    "What makes you say that?" Ryan held his breath, and his mind urged him to dig deeper.  "Just say it''s them, sweetheart, and everything will be over, he thought."


    Shiela''s heart screamed to tell him the truth. That his parents didn''t like her for him; she was only a son of a laborer who worked to feed their mouth each day. And she understood that Ryan deserved someone better than her.


    "You already have Jullien, and who am I to compete against her status?"


    "What status do you exactly mean?"


    "Her status as your fiancee."


    "We''re not married yet, and I could marry you instead."


    "No. I don''t deserve you, Neil. Go ahead with Jullien, and I wish you lifetime happiness."


    "That''s foolishness, Shiela. How can you allow me to make love with you if you only consider this as a momentary happiness?"


    "You''re parents even ordered to kill me, Neil, through Myrtle Shade," Shiela''s thoughts urged her to answer him this, but she held herself for their own good.


    "Because I love you, Neil, and as I said, I am here on a borrowed time, and when you''re gone forever in my life, these moments I have with you will be my best memories."

 Chapter 191 - The Islet Mystery 7

    When Shiela went down to join them, Jullien''s beautiful body met her eyes. She lay down on her back and floated gracefully on the water. Her creamy, white skin glistened against the sun like an ivory. She''s wearing black sunglasses, concealing half of her small, heart-shaped face, but it displayed her almost perfect body. Clad with a thong and a top that barely covered her boobs, she''s practically nude in the eyes of everyone. And to think, she''s resting her head over Ryan''s chest. The sight really broke her heart, and she wanted to run away. She regretted the moment that she decided to go down and join them.


    She couldn''t help from feeling jealous. It looked impossible that Ryan wouldn''t feel a desire for her. Perhaps, he got used to her sophisticated ways, but still, that thought didn''t stop her from getting insecure. Why do you feel this way, Shiela? She ground her teeth at the thought. Ryan did not even say his thoughts when she told him that she would not get in their way.


    "Shie, join us! It feels really nice here," Allie called out.


    She looked up and saw Allie on a black tankini. Although the fabric covered her upper body, displaying only her legs, her great and beautiful shape still showed. She laughed at the thought. Allie, who won the heart of the builder and designer of the world''s largest cruise ship, didn''t show much, but Jullien, whose status might be at risk, displayed her almost everything. Perhaps, that''s how insecure women act.


    "Sure, I''ll get down in a while," she replied, glad that Allie was on the other side of the pool.


    As she turned her back on them and removed her swimwear cover-up, she heard Ryan''s voice calling out to her. "Put something into your stomach, first. You might faint."


    She lifted her face to look at him, and she noticed his hand on Jullien''s thigh, taking away her appetite. How could he say he loved her when there was someone else under his roof? How could she be so stupid, believing in his lies?"


    "Thank you. I''ll go to the kitchen," she replied, quickly taking her eyes away from them.


    "No need. The food is on the table."


    Shiela wanted to run away, but she could not when she heard footsteps coming towards her. He knew it was him. How she wish he stayed at her side and break her heart entirely rather than giving pieces of faint hopes.


    "Sweetheart, what do you like?" Ryan said as he placed an arm on her shoulders.


    Damn it, Neil! Don''t ever call me that, she thought.


    " I can help myself ," she replied , brushing slowly the tear that escaped her eyes .


    "I just want to make sure that you eat," he said, picking up a set of plates and cutleries.


    "Stop it, Neil. I can''t afford to hurt her in broad daylight.''


    "Giving you food won''t hurt her."


    Shiela couldn''t take it anymore. She could no longer hold her urge to cry. She tried her best not to let her voice crack, and she excused herself to go to the bathroom. She sauntered, but the tears started to race down her face.


    After making sure that no one followed her, she went to the other side of the house instead. The surrounding was too quiet that she could even hear her heartbeats. She looked around and saw a landscape with thick rows of flowers. She then dropped herself to the ground and cry.


    ''You''re too stupid, Shiela, you''re too stupid!" she scolded herself for allowing herself to give in to him when she realized she couldn''t pretend to act unaffected in front of Jullien.


    Suddenly, her eyes wandered to the shore, a few meters away from her. A man was rowing in his boat, and she felt this man was sent to end her miseries. She ran to the shore and waved her hand. The man saw her and stopped paddling.


    "Sir, can you please come over?"


    The man nodded and paddled towards her. She waded fast to meet the boatman, and he reached her before the water reached her neckline.


    "Sir, are you a fisherman?" she asked, staring into his face. He was already old like his father, and perhaps, he wouldn''t do her any harm.


    "Yes, ma''am."


    "Can I take a ride in your boat?"


    "Where do you want to go, ma''am? To the next island?"


    "Just take me anywhere I could find a ferry boat going to the main port."


    "Don''t you have any companion?"


    "I have, but there''s an emergency at home. I need to get away from here as soon as possible."


    The man stared at her, and he looked hesitant. Shiela started to get afraid. She didn''t want to miss the opportunity of saving herself from further pain. She would just call later and inform them that she went home ahead. Anyway, she had her phone with her.


    "I would just like to warn you, ma''am, that we might come across with big waves. This boat is too small, and you might be scared to death."


    "It''s alright, sir!" she answered. Staying here and getting hurt equated to death itself.


    "Okay, ma''am. Please, hop in."


    Shiela smiled: a sense of relief filled her, and it seemed that a massive load heaved out from her. The man held out a hand, and she accepted it, lifting her weight into the small boat. She looked around, and her heart waved goodbye to the man who gave her momentary happiness and fulfillment.


    Just as they paddled away from the shore, Ryan''s voice echoed in her ears. "Shiela!"


    She pretended not to hear him. "Sir, do not listen to him. Give me another paddle. I''m going to help you."


    "Are you sure? Do you know how?" the man cast her a look of disbelief.


    "Yes, sir. Just please hurry up."


    "It''s on the floor. Fast!"


    Shiela hurried to pull it out, and as soon as the piece of wood was in her hands, she positioned it on the other side and began paddling.


    "Shiela, I''m warning you. Come back before you regret it."


    "No," she shouted back. She paddled fast and instructed the man to paddle faster, and before Ryan called again, a loud and ringing explosion blasted into the air.


    "Bang!"

 Chapter 192 - The Islet Mystery 8

    Shiela felt she lost her mind in fear as she realized that the exploding sound came from a gun. Everything came too fast then she could think as the boatman jumped overboard a second after the loud sound shattered her senses. She got horrified in seeing him jump and when she realized she was being left alone in the boat. Her mind couldn''t process what she should do next until the man shouted at her.


    "Jump down and save your life! That man on the shore shoots us!"


    Suddenly, she couldn''t understand what was happening and without using her mind, she dived into the water and swam as fast as she could. For what seemed like eternity, she summoned all her strength, coupled with her racing heartbeats until exhaustion slowed her down. She remembered that during these times, what would surely work on her was using her mind over the body. However, no matter how much her brain had released a surge of adrenaline, her used up energy and strength gave way.


    As each minute passed, she felt her breathing getting more difficult and shallower and her heartbeats getting louder. She started to panic and all her efforts to survive ended futile. She tried to float on her back to relax and regain strength but her fear made her body heavier until lifting a limb got difficult.


    When she felt her faintest hope had blown away, she started to concede and whispered a silent prayer, entrusting her life to the hands of the Almighty. Then she tried to draw in the last, thin air she could manage before allowing the gravity of the water to pull her down. As her heart was about to collapse due to extreme fatigue, vague images of her father and of Ryan flashed in her mind. The sharp cry of her baby when the doctor separated him from her played in her ears. Her last ounce of tears then made its way into her eyes before she lost her consciousness, mingling easily with the waves as it pushed her down to her fathomless grave.


    Shiela woke up to the force of arms encircling around her, pushing at intervals into her abdomen making her gag and throw up the water out of her stomach. After some more pushes, she started to cough the water out of her lungs and eased her breathing a little. She heard a man''s voice, calling out her name but her mind was too groggy to tell who he was.


    "Baby, please, hold on! Don''t scare me!" the man spoke in her ear and it seemed like a sound of music from the depths of the sea.


    Shiela then felt a cupped hand slapping her back for a long while and more water came out from her lungs and stomach until exhaustion took her consciousness once more.


    "Shiela! Shiela! Please, sweetheart, wake up!"


    Shiela realized later on that the voice was of Ryan and she felt relieved that she was safe in his arms. A few minutes ago, she had resigned to the reality of death, but hearing him now, made her glad. Why did he shoot them and what makes him change his mind and saved her in the end? She wanted to think harder but her mind was too exhausted to ponder.


    Ryan picked her up after giving her first aid on the shore, placing her head on his shoulder while an arm supporting her thighs. He strode fast towards the house and she heard a commotion. With her eyes closed and her strength drained, she could barely recognize the cause of the chaos. Everything seemed to be a dream.


    "What''s happening?" she heard a shrill voice which she knew was aimed at them.


    "Is that Shiela? Oh, my, what''s happening?"


    Soon an almost simultaneous questioning deafened her ears but despite their terrifying queries, she was too tired to open her eyes.


    "Get me, Jullien. I want her to check on Shiela. Where the hell is she?" Ryan''s panicked voice rang in her hears.


    Jullien. Suddenly, her name sounded like a spirit of ammonia, waking every fainting cells in her system to life. She stirred and tried to wriggle out from Ryan''s arm.


    "Shiela! Thank God, you''re conscious already!" Ryan exclaimed happily, raising her chin.


    "Put me down, please!" came her hoarse and weak voice but instead of releasing her, Ryan pulled her closer to himself and pressed her face to his.


    "You don''t know how much you scared me! How are you feeling now?"


    Before Ryan could answer, Mrs. Lopez, interrupted him and asked in a terrified voice, "Ryan, did I hear a gun? What''s happening? We''re all scared to death!"


    Gun. Explosion. The loud combustion shattering her mind. With an inner instinct telling her, she looked down at his side and there was indeed a pistol attached to a holster.


    "Neil put me down! You''re bringing a gun! It scares my mind away!"


    Ryan chuckled and murmured, "You''re so afraid of a gun but you are not thinking about dying when you just go away with a random man you don''t know at all? "


    "Ryan, you might accidentally pull down the trigger!"


    "I''ll put it down later."


    "No!"


    Seeing Shiela''s shivering and her horrified expression that her pupils seemed to dilate due to fear, he pulled the gun out of its holster and threw it away. Only when Shiela saw that it was already far away, did her quivering stop.


    "Baby, are you sure you''re okay now?" Ryan asked with an extremely worried face, brushing her dripping hair away from her face with one hand."


    "I want to rest," she mumbled.


    "Sure but I want to be sure you''re okay. I''ll have Jullien check on you."


    "No," she exclaimed, her wide eyes emphasizing it, "just let me rest."


    "Sweetheart, Jullien is a doctor..." Ryan was about to convince her further but Shiela cut her off.


    "You should have allowed me to die rather than... " Shiela stopped, her jealousy was showing already.


    Heaven must have seen and heard her when Jane stepped in and offered. "Ryan, let me check on her, instead. I''m also a doctor."

 Chapter 193 - Islet Mystery 9

    "How can I forget?" Ryan sighed, but his eyes broke into a glow of relief.


    Jane chuckled and replied, "You were in distress, and I understand."


    "I''ll clean her up, first," he looked at Jane and then to all of them who were surrounding them except Jullien. He still had not answered them, and he felt he owed them all an explanation. They got scared also, and the incident halted their enjoyment in Chara, the so-called mini-Dead Sea.


    "Alright."


    "I''m so sorry about this, auntie, uncle. I''ll explain later, " Ryan apologized and gave out a weak smile before he started sprinting towards the house.


    "Put me down, Neil. I can walk." Shiela felt uncomfortable already, now that she had regained her full consciousness. Jullien might not be around


    "You''re too weak. How can you walk?" Ryan frowned, but his eyes were full of love and tenderness as he looked at her, and everyone around noticed that.


    "Just put me down!" Shiela insisted. With all eyes looking at her, how could she be comfortable? She had denied their deeper connection, and their actions might betray her. Earlier at breakfast, Mr. Lopez eve gave her a head up of letting her know about Jullien''s relationship with Ryan.


    Ryan gave up and put her down, but as soon as her feet touched the ground, her legs wobbled like jelly, and if it were not for Ryan who still held her upper arm, she would have collapsed on the ground.


    "Look at you! You''re so stubborn, Shiela. I''ve been trying hard to be gentle on you, but you''re always resisting!" Ryan''s angered voice jolted her, and she looked up into his eyes, hoping he would see the message.


    "I know that look and don''t ever think I don''t understand. All of them here are brilliant people, and I don''t need to tell them in words that you are someone special to me!"


    Shiela melted in shame, and she couldn''t look up at them, especially when a round of chuckling broke into the air. She reached up to his side and pinched him hard, but it earned her a peal of soft laughter instead before Ryan lifted her and carried her up in bridal style.


    "Please excuse us," Ryan called out over his shoulder and saw Cherry in an amused look as if she was holding herself from squealing.


    Just as they reached the entrance, Jullien came out, and Ryan stopped because Shiela''s dangling legs would surely hit her.


    "Sweetheart, what''s happening? I heard that sound. What is it?" Jullien said as she moved her gaze from Shiela to Ryan.


    "She drowned, and I pulled the trigger to alarm everyone. I can no longer go back, or else I would have been too late!"


    "What is she doing there? She''s only giving you trouble, and you should tell her that!"


    Ryan felt Shiela stiffening although she''s closing her eyes. "Excuse me, Jullien."


    "I''ll take a look at her and see to it that she''s fine. Or else, they would accuse me of not being accommodating to your guests."


    "No need. Jane is also a doctor. Thanks." Ryan replied, and his eyes glared with impatience.


    "You might want to excuse us now!" Ryan said as he looked at her side, telling her she''s blocking the way.


    "Okay, then. I''m sorry. I''ll be waiting for you in our room, dear. I couldn''t wait for you to hold me like that."


    Shiela felt she was drowning again as she choked on her silent tears. Jullien''s words were like a single whip, beating her heart to death.


    "Our room. I can''t wait for you to hold me..." These may consist only of few letters, but those were more than enough to tear her heart apart. Why did Ryan save her? Her watery grave would have been a more comfortable place than torturing her to death by imagining them in their intimate moments.


    Once Ryan placed her on a warm tub, she cupped a handful of water and poured it into her face, doing it over and over again. Yet, he could not fool him. Ryan knew very well that she did it to conceal her tears, and this broke his heart. He felt Shiela was holding back. He saw the pain in her eyes, and he also saw the fear.


    Ryan lifted her swimsuit cover-up and pulled it over her head. "Next time, do not wear this. The material is too thin. It still shows what''s inside."


    "What do you say?'' she snapped, her eyes squinting in embarrassment.


    "I think I''m clear, my love. I don''t want you showing around your body through that damn, thin fabric."


    Shiela''s eyes grew wide in shock. What was he saying? He never said a word against Jullien wearing almost nothing. And he never stopped her when her nipples almost from her top when they met her in the doorway. She may have pretended that she did not see her as she hurriedly closed her eyes, but she saw everything.


    "But, you''re soaring to the ninth cloud in seeing Jullien almost nude in that skimpy set of bikini."


    In her anger, she did not realize that Ryan had already unhooked the strapless top piece of her bikini, and once he pulled it out, her beautiful mounds bounced before his eyes.


    "She''s not you. This makes me soar to the ninth cloud, instead,  as you say it," Ryan said without meeting her eyes. He even didn''t smirk. He just proceeded to pull down her bottom bikini and slid it down her feet.


    Instinct told her to cover herself, and Ryan got amused as she crossed her arms across her bare chest, but Ryan moved his hands on the water, bringing more bubbles on until the suds covered her entire nudity. "It''s not like I haven''t seen it many times."


    "You may go now. Your Jullien is already waiting for you in YOUR room," she emphasized the pronoun ''your'' to tell him that she heard Jullien.

 Chapter 194 - The Islet Mystery 10

    "The warm bath will ease your muscle pain a bit," Ryan said, ignoring her last statement. "Close your eyes and relax. I''ll pick you up when I''m done."


    Done what? She felt a stinging pain again, and she hated herself for that. She tried to close her eyes and promised herself; she would no longer let Ryan feel that she was hurting. She didn''t want to get a share of only pity from him if she couldn''t have all of him.


    While her mind went over to the wild scenes she imagined him with Jullien, she slowly opened her eyes, and in her peripheral vision, she caught him taking off his boxers. He then turned on the shower, and when he slightly turned to his side, he saw his manhood in full length. She hurriedly closed his eyes; his mind was surely on Jullien. She should no longer listen to him. He was so full of lies. She put a lather on her face, thinking it would conceal her hurt expression.


    For what seemed like an eternity, she felt the water in the tub slowly draining. She opened her eyes and looked up, and she realized Ryan was hovering over her.


    "I''ll have you washed up so that Jane can now come in," he said, and Shiela wondered why he never asked her why she tried to escape.


    A refill of lukewarm water covered her once more, and the temperature felt good to her aching muscles. Ryan then bent down with a sponge in his hand and began to rub it on her skin, removing the soap in her whole body while the water continued to drain and refill. Her body stiffened at his touch as she was afraid she would lose her defenses once again.


    "I''m not a tyrant, sweetheart. I won''t touch you today."


    Today. So, it meant he had plans for the next day. This was foolishness. While he wouldn''t have her today, he would be with her sweet Jullien. Damn it, Shiela, why are you so vulnerable, she thought. She was already dying of jealousy.


    Ryan must have seen the change of her expression because he bent down and kissed her forehead.


    "Nothing has changed, Shiela. It is still you in my heart, whoever I may be with."


    Shiela took in a slow breath. So, it meant there was not a single thread of chance for both of them. Anyway, even if one day he would ask her hand in marriage, she could never accept him. Not if his parents were still alive. She may have initially decided to tell him the truth, but his indirect revelation sealed her decision not to. If he couldn''t have her, what sense there was to make him hate his parents?


    Her mind was still hazy with poignant imaginations when she snapped back from his train of thoughts as Ryan lifted her into the air. She wrapped an arm around his neck and looked into his eyes and sighed. How could she ever forget him?


    "What is it?" Ryan''s voice broke into her ears.


    "Nothing."


    "Baby, talk to me! Tell me everything that is in your mind. Your silence is killing me." Ryan knew she couldn''t fully grasp since he, himself, was keeping many things to himself.


    "You still make me crazy just by looking at you like I used to do."


    Ryan knew she was telling the truth, but he also knew she was only diverting the topic. He laughed and planted a kiss on her lips as soon as she laid her down on the bed. "Before I forget, I don''t want to see you wearing bikinis without me by your side."


    She furrowed her brows and glowered. That''s maybe why Jullien wore almost nothing and she was by his side. "Do you want me to wear pants on the beaches?"


    "It''s simple, sweetheart. I don''t want others to go crazy while looking at you," he replied and cast her a warning look before he went over a drawer and pulled out a set of lingerie.


    She watched in horror as he bent down to put it on her. "I don''t want any of Jullien''s clothes on me."


    "Who said it''s Jullien''s? You have not obviously opened the closets. Every feminine thing you see is yours. I bought them for you."


    She felt her heart tightened with a band of thorns. "Stop it, Ryan. You''re breaking me apart. How could you talk about all those sweetness and thoughtfulness when she is here?"


    "What I am plainly saying to you is true, and those that I don''t, means I''m not ready to talk about yet."


    Ryan continued when she did not say a word. A pained expression was written all over her face, and she looked away.


    "You don''t know who I am, Shiela, and I''m afraid you''ll be scared in my world. There''s one thing I ask of you. Please, let me love you while I''m here. Please cherish the moment that I am with you. These could be the only moments I could be truly happy with."


    Shiela answered him with her silent tears. If only she could tell him that she knew many things about his world!


    "And please don''t ask me yet about those things I am not ready to talk about. I know it hurts. I know it''s unfair. But someday, I''ll make everything clear to you."


    "Don''t talk about tomorrow, Neil. We have no future to look forward to."


    Ryan''s face twisted in concealed agony. "I''ll find a way, sweetheart, and I pray that you can wait."


    The next minutes that followed were wrapped up in silence. Ryan changed her into a set of shorts and a blouse before wrapping her into a cotton jacket. He also changed into short pants and a white shirt.


    "I''ll let Jane in, now."


    "Take me there, instead. I don''t want them to suspect that we are sharing a room."


    "I don''t care."


    "I don''t understand you. I am talking about Jullien."


    "Then stop talking about her."


    "Neil, I really don''t understand you..."


    "I just told you that there are too many things you can''t still understand about me, but I hope you''ll open your heart to understand this."


    "What is it?"


    "This," Ryan then cupped the back of her nape and bent his head, capturing her lips in a deep kiss. Just then, the door to their room opened.

 Chapter 195 - The Islet Mystery 11

    Shiela stiffened as she heard a screeching sound and saw the door moving inwardly. Ryan still held her lips captive in a possessive kiss, and she quickly pushed him away. Yet, instead of stepping back, her eyes got wide when he tightened his hold at her nape, instead,  and placed another hand on her shoulder blade. He withdrew his mouth for a tick of a second, only to delve hers again in a deeper kiss. It took him a long while before he stopped and turned to see who was at the door while Shiela felt she melted in shame at being caught.


    "Jane," Ryan called her out, but Jane remained standing at the doorway and did not move. Her eyes were wide and locked at them, but her expression was of a massive shock. It took her second call before she realized she had been called and had been staring at them, and it seemed she didn''t know what to say.


    "Jane?" Ryan called out her name again, and she stuttered when she finally opened her mouth to speak.


    "I-I''m sorry," Jane said with a thin and bashful smile, "I did not knock on the door."


    Ryan chuckled softly, easing her tension away. Jane''s face registered guilt for having intruded and disturbed what seemed like an ongoing intimate activity.


    "Jane, it''s okay. We''re not  high school kids anymore, and seeing us kissing is never a crime."


    "I''m sorry, I did not know you''re getting serious. I thought you are just eyeing on her," Jane explained as she glanced up at her with a teasing smile before she looked back at Ryan with an overwhelmed look.


    "There''s a greater story than that." His reply gave a hint, and Jane did not need further explanation to inculcate it in her mind that he had a past with her.


    "I can tell," she confirmed and paused, then threw an amused look at Shiela, whose face turned crimson before giving her a wide smile.


    Ryan''s arm was on her shoulders as he stood by the bedside while Shiela hid her face in his waist. Jane understood her sense of awkwardness, and she decided to end her plague.


    "Shie, may I check you now?"


    Shiela nodded, but she couldn''t dare to look at her in the eye. She would have been prepared to let the rest know about them, but making her see them kissing was totally a different story. She couldn''t understand what was on Ryan''s mind, and why did he seem to do it intentionally. Just this morning, he announced her engagement to Jullien, and now, just a few hours apart, he also indirectly announce his status with her. What would Jane think about her?


    Ryan pecked on Shiela''s temple before he left her side and allowed Jane to come to her. Jane then approached her, and Ryan pulled a chair from the dressing table for her to sit on.


    "I''ll leave you, ladies, for a while. I''ll be quick."


    "Sure," Jane replied, giving him a glance and a smile over his shoulders.


    Shiela took in a deep breath as her eyes followed him until he opened the door and closed it as he left. She heaved a deep sigh when she heard the clicking sound of the closing door before she lifted her head to look at Jane. She met Jane''s gaze, and she realized she was observing her, and Shiela felt she could collapse in shame at any minute from now. She swore she was sure Jane had seen how her face lost its color the moment their eyes locked.


    Jane smiled, and the gentleness of her expression calmed her down. "When I first met him at the cruise, I wondered if there was a woman so fortunate to capture his heart. For the whole period we were there, I did not see any woman beside him."


    "Jullien wasn''t there?" Jane''s face twitched at the mention of Jullien''s name, but she was quick to return to her previous charming facade.


    "Perhaps she was not there because we shared so many meals together, and Ryan did not bring any woman along."


    "Jane," Shiela held Jane''s gaze for a moment before she looked away and paused, perhaps reconsidering her decision to speak out.


    "Come on, Shiel, you can trust me," Jane encouraged her, and she held her hand midway towards the pouch, which contained her stethoscope.


    "Ryan is engaged to Jullien..." Shiela paused; she suddenly found it hard to continue.


    "And you feel guilty that I find out your relationship with Ryan?" Jane continued it for her, knowing all too well that Shiela was afraid that she might think bad about her for betraying Jullien under the same roof.


    "I do."


    Jane was silent for a while, groping for the right words to say. She pulled out the pouch again and opened it, taking out her black stethoscope. She then looked at Shiela and gave out a faint smile before opening her mouth to speak.


    "I see that Ryan cares about you so much more than how he behaves with Jullien."


    "Maybe because I was his first love, and he was mine. We lost communication for eight years and meet again a few days ago."


    Jane held the bell of the stethoscope and placed it on the upper right of her chest. She gave Shiela a quick stare before she spoke again.


    "We are only humans, and our hearts are deceptive as ever."


    "You experienced this same thing?" Shiela''s jaws dropped as she looked at her.


    "I got in love with my brother, even though I knew he was married."


    Shiela''s eyes grew wider in surprise, but then the door squeaked, and Ryan''s head popped in as soon as he opened the door.


    "How is it, Jane?" Ryan asked as soon as he entered and Jane answered him while she was still moving the bell at Shiela''s back.


    "Her lungs are clear, but since the complication may not be evident right away, so I''ll be giving her prophylaxis. You also did a good job in rescuing and resuscitating her right away, so we have nothing to worry about."


    Ryan glared at Shiela before he turned to Jane. "She scared me to death! I''m glad I was able to reach her just in time."


    "By the way, what happened? You''re fortunate, Shie, that Ryan saw you. To think, he was with us in Chara when you left."


    Shiela looked down as the memory of it brought back the pain. She tried to find the right words to say, but Ryan spoke on her behalf.


    "I already suspected that she would do something stupid, so I followed her later inside the house. But instead of finding her there, I saw her through the wall that she was climbing into a boat. I went out and called out to her, but instead of turning towards me, the man paddled faster, and later, I also saw her paddling to help him."


    "My goodness! Shie, were you trying to escape?" Jane exclaimed, horrified as she stared hard at Shiela. But instead of hearing her answer, Ryan replied again for her.


    "She got jealous of Jullien..."


    And Shiela felt like fainting when she realized how transparent she was to him.

 Chapter 196 - The Islet Mystery 12

    Shiela felt her blood draining from her system, and she froze while gazing at him and back to Jane. Ryan then broke out in amused laughter as he saw her reaction, and before he made his next blink, a pillow was flying towards him, and it hit his face, making him laughed harder.


    Jane, on the other hand, held her breath for a moment. She knew Shiela got embarrassed, but seeing them bantering lovingly, she joined in Ryan''s laughter.


    "Do you think I did not know?" Ryan teased Shiela again, and the next second she heard her squeal in embarrassment, and more pillows came flying in his direction.


    "That was so brave of you, Shie. Don''t do it again. You don''t know the man, and he might do you harm."


    "This is a dangerous place with lots of caves and dangerous channels everywhere. Your body may not be found if you get drowned here." Ryan seconded, but it came as a warning to Shiela, as he looked at her with those threatening gaze.


    Goosebumps crept down her spine as she thought about it, but the mention of caves made her recall an experience in the past, and her eyes lit up.


    Ryan saw it, and he did not waste a second in asking. "What is it?"


    "Nothing."


    "There you are again."


    Then, she snapped at remembering something again, something she could use as an alibi. "My phone!"


    "I took care of it, dear," Ryan answered nonchalantly, and he walked to the closet, holding later her phone in his hand.


    Shiela sank in relief as she saw it as if her life clung to the object. "Where did you get this?"


    "The boatman came back and returned it. You placed it on the boat."


    The thought of him in trying to help her and his thoughtfulness to return her phone touched her, and her eyes soon glistened in unshed tears. "How I wish I could thank him."


    "He helped me in saving you, and that prevented me from shotting him in the head," Ryan spoke in such a calm way as if killing a person sounded as natural as munching bread.


    Shiela gasped in horror as her spine crept up again. Was he taking over the responsibility of running their business empire? And did it include their underground movement, including the Myrtle Shade craze?


    As she had heard it, the rise of Myrtle Shade branches had been tremendous, and it became the talk of the city. Its name had linked to social branding, and whenever quality, leisure, and fame became the subject, Myrtle Shade always got its place. To avoid suspicion as she got lost in her thoughts, she changed the subject.


    "I''m sorry for making a scene, Jane. Because of me, your enjoyment was halted."


    "I understand, and I''m sure every one of us understands."


    "Please don''t tell them about...," she said, looking at him then back to Jane.


    Jane chuckled as she stole a glance at Ryan before she promised."You can trust me."


    "Thank you, Jane. I''ll respect her if she''s not ready."


    Jane then stood up and bid goodbye to both of them. The love in the air suffocated her, and she felt she was an intruder. She watched as Ryan opened the closet and saw men''s clothes hanging there. She did not need to ask to confirm that he was sharing his room with her.


    "You''ll start the antibiotics after dinner, but for now, you need sleep to recover," Jane said as she paused by the door before finally closing it.


    Ryan followed Jane, and when he got back, he already held a tray in his hand with a steaming cup. He placed it at the bedside table, and then he held her hand and helped her to sit up.


    "Drink this tea. The concoction has lots of electrolytes to replenish what you lost when you threw up."


    ''What''s that?" she asked, and her hands started to shake when she saw the steam rising from the cup and the inviting aroma started to fill her senses.


    "We call it Chara blooms."


    If her hands started to shake at the sight of the steaming cup, this time it included her knees when he mentioned Chara blooms. Myrtle Shade was just a brand name, but the actual source was the Chara blooms. For Ryan to say it had lots of electrolytes was an understatement. The richness of its mineral content was the reason why Chara pools got its high buoyancy. Thinking about the Chara pool outside, the more she was sure that she was not far from the place, she got exiled for more than a year.


    "What''s happening?" Her shaking must be evident because Ryan''s brows furrowed in surprise.


    "You remind me of the incident, and I get scared at the thought of it."


    "I see. I''m so sorry for hurting you, but I can''t promise anything as of now."


    He brought the cup over to her lips, and with much courage it took her mentally, she finally sipped and gulped it at one go. Chara blooms were medicinal by nature, but taking it in concentrated form, was addictive and could induce rapid neurological damage and irreversible amnesia.


    Ryan then put her to sleep by having her in his arms with his arms comforting her. When she woke up later, it was already dark. She glanced at the time on her phone and saw a message notification.


    "If you can make it to dinner, we''ll wait for you in the dining room, but if you still can''t, I''ll bring it to you later. Please give me a call."


    She tried to sit up and dangled her legs on the bed. After a while, she put her feet on the floor and tried to stand up. She still felt sore, perhaps due to the strenuous movement of her limbs on the water, but her strength had already returned.


    She changed into something more presentable and fixed herself before she went out. All eyes turned in her direction as they saw her coming. Ryan was already there, and so was Jullien. And as expected, she was beside him.


    Ryan stood up quickly to assist her, but Jane was quicker than him. She waved a hand at Shiela and told her to sit beside her. Perhaps, she knew that her night was going to get sour again.


    "Dear, did you let her drink the Chara tea? I have a pack here," Pauline''s voice echoed in her ears like a death call.


    "No!" Ryan roared with a horrified look, startling everyone around, including Jullien.


    "I''m sorry," he said when he realized his rather odd reaction then looked at all of them with apologetic eyes before turning to back to Jullien, "she already had it."

 Chapter 197 - The Islet Mystery 13

    "You don''t have to shout at me, darling, if all you want is to tell me that you have already let her drink it," Jullien said softly in a humiliated tone as she picked up her spoon and fork and started to scoop some food into her plate.  Her voice may just be louder than a whisper, but due to the extreme silence, everyone heard her clearly.


    "I''m sorry. I was thinking of something." Ryan apologized, and he reached out for her hand and held it, making Jullien drop her fork on the plate.


    "How can I ever keep a grudge on you?" she chirped sweetly and hung her head on his shoulders, "but you might want me to continue eating?"


    "I''m sorry," Ryan apologized again as he realized it, but Jullien cupped his face and pulled it down for a kiss.


    "That''s so sweet of you, dear, and that makes me love you more."


    Shiela stiffened on her seat, and Jane reached out for her knees and cupped it with her hand, in an attempt to comfort her. Shiela threw a glance and a weak smile at her before she focused back on the plate and forced herself to eat to divert her attention.


    "Shie, you might like this soup. It''s very healthy. You need this to recover faster."


    "Thanks, Jane," Shiela replied and gave her a quick glance before accepting the big bowl of beef stew, topped with herbs and lots of vegetables.


    She began scooping some soup into her bowl when Ryan''s voice held her arm midway.


    "That''s cold already. It''s a lot better when it''s hot. I''ll heat it, first."  Ryan said as his eyes burned against her.


    "Dear, it''s alright. Miss Shiela would have to wait until it cools down again. Do you get my point?"


    Jullien''s voice was a bit late since Ryan had moved quicker than a flash of lightning. He carried the big bowl in his hand and walked towards the kitchen. After a few minutes, he was back with a steaming pot already.


    "There, Shie. Eat plenty of it."


    Shiela was burning with a complicated emotion as she saw Jullien''s sharp gazes darting towards her. She could even feel that the rest also felt awkward for her. She tried to ignore them as her heart was almost bursting and she placed her focus back on the food.


    "Madame, I hope all of you here would be there at our wedding," Jullien began to break the silence, as she addressed her invitation to Mrs. Lopez.


    "Really, dear? When would it be?" Mrs.Lopez eyes glowed at the news; either she was too innocent to observe what''s going on around, or she was just playing along.


    "We would be releasing the final date to the press this month''s end. Ryan and I are still finishing up a certain project, and we hope it could be completed by next week."


    The soup on Shiela''s throat suddenly turned bitter, and the beef tasted like a cigarette butt that she felt like throwing up. She held her breath and slowly took some air into her lungs. She thought that the moment she would expel the air, a sob would altogether escape from her mouth. She tapped her fingers at her thigh as she drew in another lungful of air, trying desperately to calm herself down.


    A ring on her phone interrupted their conversation, and she got a reason to leave the table. She looked around and hesitated to stand up at first, feeling it would be an act of disrespect to leave while a significant announcement was made. A special announcement that would bring her down to her early grave.


    "You may answer your call. It might be important," Ryan said as he looked at her with a worried expression.


    Relieved from her ordeal, she hurriedly ran outside and burst into tears, not realizing she had accepted the call. She cried as hard as she could, hoping that after crying her heart out, her tears would dry, and she wouldn''t have to cry all over again. She kept on roaming around until she reached the place where the vivid image of Jullien in her string bikini floated in her mind.


    The surroundings were so quiet, and its serenity was already eerie. Shiela dropped herself on the sand as she watched the entire area of Chara pool against the only light on the lamp post beside the huge acacia tree. The surface at the bottom of the Chara pool was already glittering with multiple colors such as gold, red, green, and blue. She didn''t know why but she was told before that it was because of the abundant minerals of Chara blooms, especially when the plants start to yield its flowers.


    The information did not come easy, and she was only told about it before one of the Yu''s men injected a concentrated concoction of Chara leaves into her system. The effect would be gradual enough to send her to a place where no one knew her, expecting her to forget her memories forever. If ever her family would find her, she could no longer recognize them nor remember who she was. And she could not betray her captor because of an irreversible type of amnesia.


    She still remembered the old man as he spoke to her; his voice was a little louder than a whisper.


    "If they throw you into the sea, look for the markers in the water. Always cling on to the light green areas, picture out the map in your mind, and follow its course until you''ll get someone to help you."


    Shiela had known by accident that these areas had high buoyancy and that she would not sink there. The man may not have explained to her the detail, but she understood. Yet, the most important part was when he placed a small bottle in her pocket and hurriedly instructed her to hide it under her underwear.


    "That is a thick concoction of Chara flowers. Be sure to drink it all as soon as no one is watching you. They do not know about it, but it is the antidote to the poison they are giving you."


    Shiela smiled as she recalled the incident despite the tears which continued to drench her face. Her life still held a purpose because that old man became her angel, rescuing her from losing her memories.


    Drawn by the sparkling beauty of the place, she slowly slid down with her back on the water and floated slowly, allowing her mind and body to relax under the healing wonders of nature. Too exhausted with her crying and the strain she got earlier, she drifted off to a deep sleep.

 Chapter 198 - The Islet Mystery 14

    "Ryan, dear, you did not tell auntie and uncle about this. Where will the venue be?" Mrs. Lopez glowed in the excitement of a wedding.


    Jullien pinched Ryan''s side, and he snapped back to his senses. Jullien moved her eyes in Mrs. Lopez''s direction, and he understood that she was speaking to him.


    Madame Lopez smiled broadly, reciting her question. "It seems like you already imagine your coming wedding, dear." This earned a pleased chuckle from Jullien, prompting her to snuggle closer to Ryan''s chest.


    "I''m sorry, auntie. I plan to announce it once we have the date," Ryan answered, but his eyes were on the phone. On his ears was a wireless ear set.


    Ryan''s eyes strayed at Jane, and he saw the hurt in her eyes. She did not look up to them and pretended to go on eating.  It will be an act of disrespect to Jullien if her expression betrays her.


    "Congratulations to both of you! The wedding must be a talk of the city."


    "It will be in tabloids and all news portals," Jullien announced proudly as her eyes sparkled in excitement. "Ryan is so thoughtful because he orders the most beautiful gown every woman would dream of."


    "Congratulations, ahead, Miss Jullien. You and Ryan will make a beautiful pair together," Mr. Dioko, the man of few words, congratulated them as well.


    "Dear, you should order me the best wedding suit," Mr. Lopez chuckled, his eyes beaming as he fixed his gaze on the lovely couple.


    Ryan was half-smiling throughout the conversation, but it seemed that he was not listening at all. He was leaning on the backrest, and Jullien was leaning on her chest that she could not see his expression.


    Ajie, Allie, and Cherry expressed their joys also, but their eyes betrayed them. Even if the two did not open up, they saw it in their very eyes that there was something special between Ryan and their friend.


    Mr. Lopez shifted the topic to business, and Jullien got bored. She stood up and excused herself.


    "Please excuse me, everyone. I have something to take care of."


    "Good night, ahead, Miss Jullien," Allie smiled widely, obviously relieved of her decision to leave.


    The rest followed in their exchanges of pleasantries before they picked up their last topic again when Jullien finally left. Everyone seemed hooked up to the subject, but Jane and Cherry fidgetted in their seats.


    Ryan''s expression turned dark now and then, and he sometimes winced as if he was in pain. Cherry wanted to comment on his obvious discomfort, but she was too afraid to interrupt the elderlies'' ongoing discussion.


    Just as Cherry could not take it anymore, she stood up abruptly, and to her surprise, Jane also sprang up to her feet. They looked at each other, and both understood that their minds were on Shiela. Just as they were about to leave, a house staff rushed in with frightened looks.


    "Sir, please excuse me, the high tide starts, already," she said, pausing at intervals to catch up her breath.


    "And what''s with the high tide?" Ryan asked with a frown as if he was expecting the worst announcement.


    "The water level is about to flush of out Chara''s brim, and the lady is perhaps asleep..."


    Ryan fled out of the house with the speed of the lightning. "Damn it, Shiela."


    Everyone stared at the staff who stood shaking, pacing back and forth in the dining room.


    "What are you saying?" Allie shouted, too impatient to know what she really meant. She knew something was wrong, but she could not move because Chloe was asleep in her lap.


    "The water level is already too deep. I cannot save the miss."


    "Adrian, run! It must be Shiela drowning again!"


    Adrian cast her a startled and quick stare before he sprinted out of the house. Everyone else followed without really understanding what''s happening.


    ____


    "Madame, I was told you''re looking for me," Shiela said as she sat across the desk of the college dean.


    "Yes, dear. I want to congratulate you again for being a summa cum laude. With this great achievement, the MS Sciences, Inc., is offering you a job in Japan. If you accept it, they are offering you a year advance of your salary. Don''t worry, every month, you will still receive your monthly salary, and if you can finish the contract, your advance payment will be given to you as an incentive."


    Shiela jumped in excitement. She was so happy that she walked around the desk and hugged the dean. "Thank you so much, madame. You don''t know how happy I am."


    "You''re welcome, dear. I''m also happy for you."


    A few days after, Shiela, climbed into a private helicopter. She was beaming with happiness. A baby was on the way, and with her salary, she could already support him. And because she was away, she could hide her pregnancy from his father until the baby would be big enough to introduce him to his grandfather. She had an explicit agreement with the management that they would still offer her the contract even if she were five months pregnant.


    She sat by the window and watched the city below them as the airbus lifted her into the air. To her surprise, it landed on an island after an hour, and they transferred to a powerboat. They entered a cove and soon stopped in front of what seemed like a beach house. She looked around, and she could no longer tell where they passed through.


    "Where are we?" she asked her two male companions


    "You will be working here."


    "But my contract says I will be working in Japan," she argued, her knees started to shake.


    "Wait until you talk to your employer."


    "Are they here?"


    "We are here," said the man who suddenly appeared when they start climbing into a cemented stairs.


    "Miss Ferrer, we want to be plain with you. That one-year advance salary is for your freedom. If you take the medication to expel the baby in your womb, you are free to ride back in that powerboat but with another condition. Never tell Ryan about this, or you might not like what we are capable to do. Our son is going to marry the right woman for him, someone who could pass on our legacy."


    Shiela felt her blood drained from her head. Her face turned pale and she almost fainted when she realized that she had accepted a trap. She knew she could no longer back out.


    "I won''t. I can''t do that. I will hide the identity of the child, just let him live," Shiela begged, and she started to sob.


    Just then her dream turned into another scene. She saw her baby in a little casket floating into the sea. It was raining hard and the wind was fierce. She swam fast to catch him before the waves could take him away from her forever. But when she almost got him, a big wave drifted her away.


    "No! Baby, don''t leave me!" she cried hard as she pushed her way against the waves until another mighty wave plunged her into the depths.


    "Shiela!"

 Chapter 199 - The Islet Mystery 15

    The sea level started to get high by the time Shiela drifted off to sleep. During high tide, the rise of the water level would cover Chara''s rim. On aerial view, the inequality of the water level around Chara and the surrounding body of water could not be identified, and it''s elevated position, which looked like a basin on top of the shore, would not be evident.


    While one''s buoyancy would still retain on the area during high tide, the risk would pose during windy days, low-pressure weather and stormy hours due to big waves. The islet that Ryan owned was in the middle of the sea, and no swimmer was good enough once caught up in big waves due to gravitational pull.


    Shiela would have been safe even if she slept. Yet, as the water level rose up, the wind got strong, sweeping the waves off to shore and washed Shiela away from Chara''s rim. The gentle waves did not wake her up even as it swept her off slowly from the safe area. Yet, when the wind began to howl, and the waves started to roll mightily, it tossed her roughly away, and the choking sensation woke her up. She then realized what happened, and while she allowed the angry waves to wash her off, a scene from her dream flashed in her mind.


    "Look for the map and follow its course," the old woman''s voice seemed like an angel speaking to her mind.


    Battling against the waves and its power to sink her, she sharpened her mind and traced out the light green areas which outlined like maps on the vast space of the sea. The rush of adrenaline pushed her to fight, doubling her strength and turning her mind sharper. The light of the moon, which still illuminated the dark and lonely world around her, made her outlining easier. She pushed harder towards the safety line, even if the waves pushed her back many times. As the last will and courage her mind had pushed her to fight for her survival, she gave in her last ounce of strength. She pushed her two legs backward for her last kick and threw her body towards the nearest outline of the Chara channel. While panting for her breath, she moved her hands under the water and groped for the rope that secured the area.


    The Yu family had guarded and outlined the Chara channels with a rope for an easier marker during the harvest. Aside from the rope, the buoyancy it naturally provided could make anyone safe as long as that person still had the strength to hold on against the mighty winds.


    Shiela closed her eyes as she relaxed while her hands held on to the rope. The night was getting deeper, and perhaps no one knew she sneaked out again. Probably, they were already looking for her around but who could ever tell that she was out in the sea, trying to drown herself again? The water on Chara channels may be warm, but the icy breeze could freeze her to death.


    Her thoughts revisited Ryan. She could never forget how he held her hand to comfort Jullien. She could not forget how she leaned on his chest without any fear of being caught. She was free, and this world was an open and happy place for them to live together. And who was she? A poor woman who entangled herself in a forbidden love on borrowed moments. A woman who got no right to claim what she desired for herself and a woman who was a prisoner of her own heart.


    Just then, a blinding light made her squint and closed her eyes tightly. A roaring sound of a boat''s engine shattered her eardrums. Before she realized it as she could not open her eyes, a strong arm enclosed her, and he pushed her body upward. She then felt some hands, holding her underarm and pulled her into the boat. She slowly opened her eyes, and the moment she opened it, she met Ajie''s smiling but worried eyes.


    "Thanks, Adrian, how did you find it out?"


    Before Ajie opened his mouth to answer, a heavy weight dropped on the boat, making it sway. She turned her head to see what it was, but she froze when she realized who he was.


    "Do you really want to die?" he growled, his eyes seemed to pop out from its sockets because of anger.


    His frightening voice startled her, and she felt she almost fell from her seat. She already started quivering, being lifted out from the lukewarm water. "What''s good in living?"


    "I don''t know what to do with you anymore!" His voice was softer now, perhaps realizing that he scared her.


    "Then don''t... think... about it!" she murmured, even if her chin was already quivering due to the freezing sea breeze. Images of him and Jullien floated in her mind, and she got humiliated again.


    She looked away and curled to warm herself, but Ryan scooped her up and placed her in his lap. He then wrapped her with his arms and glued his body towards her back, shielding her from the cold wind as her human blanket.


    "Shall we go now?" Ajie''s voice reminded them that they were not alone.


    "Please," Ryan said, tightening his embrace around her.


    "Baby, please..." Ryan then whispered into her ear as he buried his face in the crook of her neck. This humiliated her once more, and she squirmed to free herself from him. She knew very well that he was saying these same sweet nothings to her fiancee.


    "Ryan, please let me go. I''ll find a boat that will take me home tomorrow."


    "Your home is where I am."


    "I don''t want to share what''s mine with anyone," she answered, and her voice started to crack. She bit her lower lip to control her emotion before she went ahead," And I don''t want to steal someone else''s property."

 Chapter 200 - The Islet Mystery 16

    "Adrian," Ryan''s voice startled Ajie as he focused on maneuvering the boat back to the island. He turned to them with a raised brow before he broke into a wide smile. Ajie perhaps noticed Ryan''s desperate look.


    "How do you manage a woman''s stubbornness?" he said, turning his to look at her then back at Ajie. "Has Allie been a headache?"


    Ajie laughed, but Allie shrank in shame. She felt her blood rising to her ears, and she thought it was burning.


    "You wouldn''t be able to imagine it. Until today, I still can''t believe I have her by my side. I still see her leaving me on my occasional nightmares and damn it. It scares me to death."


    Shiela was sure Ryan wore an amused expression as perhaps, he could relate. When Ryan did not say a word, Ajie continued, "However, it was all my fault. That thing you called the inability to handle a woman''s stubbornness almost made me lose her forever. If ever it happened, I would never be able to forgive myself."


    Suddenly, Shiela did not know whether Ajie was speaking to Ryan, or he was indirectly aiming his words at her. If she wouldn''t be able to overcome her fear, she would be losing Ryan forever.


    "Your world is different from mine, Adrian. You''re free as an eagle while I am a desperate, caged animal," she jerked at her seat when she realized she was speaking out her mind. Adrian may not have aimed his statement at her.


    Ryan gave her a long stare, and Shiela could feel it. Probably, it had something to do with what she had just said.


    "Communication is important. I''m encouraging you both to talk about your matters sincerely without bringing up a fight."


    So, it meant Adrian had a hint of their relationship, she thought. And who would not suspect? Ryan was hugging her like she was some prized possession he had recovered from the depths.


    "Tell me more about it, Adrian. I''m new to this. I have never run after a woman, and I have never been disturbed and scared like this before."


    Shiela froze at what she heard. Ryan seemed a hundred percent sincere and she got overwhelmed. She closed her eyes, and she swore she did not realize that she was pushing his arms further towards herself.


    "Shie?" she heard Ajie calling out to her, and her eyes flew wide.


    "Yes."


    "Ryan here truly loves you."


    "He has Jullien."


    "I was also engaged to Jane."


    "What?" her eyes flew wider, and she swore it looked like a lamp in the air.


    "I was bound to marry her if it were not for mom to break the shocking news that she is my sister."


    "Gosh!" was all she could mutter.


    "I was bound to marry her, but my heart belongs to my wife. I know Ryan would also find a solution to your case."


    Her heart wanted to believe him, but she knew she shouldn''t fall into the delusion while it''s still early. She understood that Ryan''s case was not as easy as his.


    Ryan no longer said a word even after Ajie pulled over the shore. He just kept on hugging her but his mind was something else. She knew that Ajie had touched something that hit him hard.


    Ryan stood up and jumped into the water. Then he turned back to pick her up in his arms. A loud gasp escaped her mouth as she looked up, realizing that everyone except Jullien was waiting for them at the shore.


    She got so ashamed to think that she made herself a star of the night once again. How she suddenly wished that Ryan did not find her and allowed her instead to grope her way back to the house alone later.


    Jane, Cherry, Allie, and even Mrs. Lopez rushed out to hug her once Ryan put her down in front of them. Their sincere act of thoughtfulness so touched her that she almost forget the soreness of her lower extremities. Her tears began dripping silently again as she thanked them all.


    Mr. Lopez and Mr. Dioko approached and hugged her as well, and there was pity in their eyes. She could not help but cry at the realization that she was blessed with people like them. She only had her aunt and her father as her family, but having them now was an added priceless treasure.


    "What happened, Shie?" Allie''s voice broke out her emotional grip, and she looked at her with a smile.


    Ryan must have felt she was falling that he stepped closer and pulled her to his side that she was already leaning at him for support.


    "I''m sorry I was tempted to float down in Chara to clear out my mind," she started to narrate, but as she looked up and stole a glance at Ryan, she met his eyes burning at her in anger. Disregarding him, she continued, "But perhaps due to my exhaustion, I fell asleep. I woke up later when the waves tossed me."


    She smiled, and they gasped out in both fear and relief as they all imagined her fighting for her life in that raging sea. Ryan''s grip against her tightened, and she knew he was angry.


    "My gosh, Shiela. You scared us all!" Cherry exclaimed, her knees still shivering in fear.


    "I wonder how did you find it out?" she asked, but instead of getting an answer, Ryan ranted at her.


    "Your jealousy makes you stupid! I called you up to spare you from getting more hurt, but you made a silly move instead, and think that those waves can better sympathize with you."


    Shiela froze as she realized he was listening to all her wailing, and she burrowed her face at his chest. She couldn''t imagine why Ryan spoke so openly in front of them. And though she could hear the loud thumping of his heartbeats because of his fury, he was rubbing her back gently, instead.


    Mr. Dioko slowly approached her, and he reached out for her hand and held it tenderly that she almost cried again.


    "Dear, whatever is it that troubles you, whatever is it that holds you back, speak it out. If you can''t do it with Ryan, you may talk to us. We are here as your family."

 Chapter 201 - The Islet Mystery 17

    Shiela couldn''t hold it anymore. She had long desired to have someone to listen to her, to understand how she felt, and, most of all, someone she could trust with her secrets. She threw herself at him, and Mr. Dioko hugged her back. She felt the presence of her father again, and she started to cry.


    "Looking at your eyes now hurts me. I can''t imagine my daughter''s fear back then, and it is something I regret."


    Allie smiled as she heard him;  she had always admired him, even as a child. "Dad, how about gathering together and have a sincere talk?"


    "But I guess, Shiela is already so tired, and she needs a rest," Mr. Dioko replied, gazing at her with a worried look.


    "I love it, sir. I also wish to know all of you better."


    "We may all come to her room after thirty minutes. I''ll get her warmed up, first." Ryan replied, to Shiela''s great surprise. She thought he would object it, knowing that he was very concerned about her health and her rest.


    Ryan had Shiela hop on his back, making Chloe giggle hard. "Auntie, you''re also playing a horsey-horsey?"


    "Yes, darling," Ryan laughed, and  he reached out his hand to pinch her check, "and I''ll make it sure she''ll get many rides before we go back to the city."


    "Really, uncle?" she gasped in pleasure and added, "may I also join the ride?"


    "But baby, it is going to be very dark," Ryan replied with an amused expression before he burst out in laughter.


    "Why is it going to be so dark?" Chloe stared hard at him, her little face registering her confusion.


    Shiela twisted Ryan''s side, and he swayed and laughed harder. "Stop confusing the child!"


    Ajie then picked Chloe up with equally amused looks and whispered into the child''s ears, "Stop asking, baby. Uncle is talking about a night horse."


    Cherry giggled as she saw Chloe''s big, round eyes, gazing into her dad''s face in a puzzled expression.


    "Baby, let''s go, uncle could no longer wait to ride in his night horse. We don''t want to delay him."


    They parted ways as each of them went to their respective rooms, but Chloe held her puzzled gaze at Ryan until they disappeared.


    "You''re shaming me," Shiela growled as soon as they left.


    "You''re giving all of them the impression that I am cheating with you behind your fiancee''s back."


    "Leave them thinking that way. I couldn''t care less," he shrugged before turning the doorknob.


    "But I don''t want to be a villain in your love story."


    "It''s because you are the female lead."


    Ryan placed her under the shower as he rinsed them both from the salty water. He was preparing a bubble bath at the same time, and after a while, she could already smell the scent on it. He began taking off their clothes as soon as the tub was ready, and then he placed themselves both inside.


    "I hope the warm water and the essential oil could ease your body pains a bit," Ryan said as he cuddled her.


    "Hmmn," she replied, closing her eyes as she felt the therapeutic effect of the warm bath against her body.


    "If you want to stay longer here and do not want to talk to them yet, I can go and tell them."


    "It''s alright. I want to know them more also."


    "But, you are tired."


    "A cup of black coffee will perk me up."


    "Then, I''ll make one for you."


    As soon as the water cooled down, they both got up and rinsed. It did not take long after they had changed into a new set of thick sleepwear when they heard a slow knock on the door. Ryan opened up a small box on the wall, and to her surprise, it was a monitor showing Jullien outside the door.


    "Never open the door without looking whose outside, first, " Ryan spoke out over his shoulders. To her further surprise, he went to the other side of the wall and realized for the first time that there was another door connecting to the next room. She shuddered at the thought that perhaps,  Ryan had another room in between hers and Jullien. And to prevent Jullien from knowing that he was inside her room, he would enter through that door in the middle room.


    Her legs started to shake at the new realization. She went back to the monitor to see what''s going on outside, and to her shock, she could hear their conversation. Why did Ryan expose these secrets to her?


    "Sweetheart," Jullien greeted him as soon as he came out of his secret room, but she got shocked again that he didn''t come out through the door next to hers.


    "Jullien, why are you there?" he said as he approached her, leaning his body on the wall the moment he was a meter away from her.


    "I was waiting for you. I want you by my side," Jullien said, pouting her lips, as she ran her hands on his chest.


    "I have guests, Jullien. Why don''t you sleep early?"


    "I want you," she said in a flirty voice, rubbing her lower body against his.


    "That can wait until our wedding night. Go back now."


    "Just please sleep with me tonight."


    "We have plenty of time for that in the future."


    Shiela felt her legs losing strength as she watched and listened to them. Jullien looked beautiful in her thin nightgown, outlining her flaunting curves beneath the transparent material. She returned to her bed. She could not afford to watch them making out outside her room. If Jullien could dare to kiss him in front of a crowd, how much more when they were alone?


    She picked up her phone and opened her social media accounts. She must occupy herself before Ryan would come back. She didn''t want him to suspect that she was sneaking and watching them through the monitor.


    An advertisement popped up on her phone, and her eyes got wide when she saw Jullien on the photo. Beside him was Ryan, looking down on her with those tender eyes of them. She clicked on the link right away and read its story. She then felt like fainting the moment she read the first paragraph.


    "The heir and heiress of MS Sciences, Inc., Mr. Ryan Paul Te, and Dr. Jullien Sy, have finally confirmed that they will be tying a knot in three months..."


    Mr. Ryan Paul Te? And not Ryan Neil Yu?

 Chapter 202 - The Islet Mystery 17

    Shiela continued to read the article and as she held her breath. However, she had to know more about him and his world.


    MS Sciences t, Inc. is the leading pharmaceutical company in the world specializing in narcotic drugs to treat all types of psychiatric disorders. The company is owned by the parents of both Mr. Ryan Paaul Te and Dr. Jullien Sy. Their fathers are childhood best friends who dreamed to dominate the business world when they grow up.


    As their dream started to materialize, the best friends made a pact that their children in the future should marry each other to continue the legacy. The Te''s raised their child to be an efficient businessman and the SY''s trained their daughter on sciences and chemistry.


    On the bottom portion, Jullien was quoted saying, "We are inseparable. Our parents raised us to be for each other only. I grow up having it in my mind that Ryan would become my husband when the right time comes.


    Shiela''s fatigue disappeared as she put up the pieces together. She sank on the couch and hang up her head in the backrest as her mind connected the fragments of information from the present to the past. She now understood Jullien''s role in Ryan''s life and their connection to their business legacy. And she now understood that she had no place in his life. Ryan could no way cut off her connection to Jullien.


    She laughed at how the journalist defined the company profile of MS Sciences, Inc. While it was true that the company was specializing in creating pharmaceutical products, the world didn''t know that they were dominating the world with their illegal drug creation which they produced from Chara blooms. It was too unfortunate that the authority arrested Ryan''s parents as methamphetamine or shabu producers but not on their underlying business. What confused her at the moment was why Ryan introduced himself as Ryan Paul Te in the business world and not Ryan Neil Yu. One thing crossed her mind, he was using a disguise.


    A knock on the door interrupted her train of thoughts and she walked fast toward the monitor. She saw Ryan standing there with a broad smile, and behind him were Mr. & Mrs. Lopez and the rest.


    They gathered later by the couch and Ryan placed an air pot, a tray of mugs and sachets of Myrtle Shades on the center table. There was also the rectangular box that contained the creamer with different kinds of flavor.


    Cherry pulled out one pack of creamer and held it out at Ryan. "Is this the best creamer? People at the coffee shops go crazy with this flavor."


    Ryan shrugged but replied, anyway. "That is one of the besat-sellers but it really depends on the consumers. All I have here are the top five best selling creamers."


    "Mom is addicted to Caffe affogato and she can''t live without it,"


    Shiela looked at Ryan''s reaction and he got startled at the mention of the flavor. However, he was quick to conceal it and Cherry didn''t seem to notice it. Caffe affogato is one of the most expensive flavors in any Myrtle Shade coffee shops. An attendant would give the consumer a steaming, brewed coffee on a mug and then drop a scoop of vanilla ice cream in it.


    "Yes, the taste is really great. I can understand why she is addicted to it."


    ''Is it not harmful to patients with heart problems?" Cherry confirmed, trying to gauge him up if he had knowledge about the addictive effect of the cream.


    "It is because the caffeine in the coffee pushes forces her weak heart to pump faster."


    Shiela could tell that by looking at the way Ryan answered Cherry, he was so good at hiding the secret of Myrtle Shade.


    Shiela then saw him emptying a sachet into two cups, and then he sat beside her as he gave her one.


    "It''s black, as you wish," he said as he looked at her before he ran his eyes over to the rest of them and said," please, help yourself."


    As soon as everyone had their share of coffee, Allie brought up right away the purpose of their gathering.


    "Shall we start now? I hope after this, we would get to know each other better and we could rely on each other for emotional support."


    Ryan nodded and smiled, h her stooping after this that he would find the answer to his many questions. Everyone looked at Shiela, expecting that she would start telling her story but Mr. Dioko cut them off.


    "I think, one of us in the family should start sharing our personal story so that Shiela would be encouraged to do so, " Mr. Dioko suggested.


    "Who would be the first?" Ajie asked as he ran his eyes over to all of them.


    "You," Allie said, laughing.


    "Okay, but we should do a chain-telling method."


    "I agree," Mrs. Lopez said.


    Then, Ajie took a deep breath and turned serious as he started to narrate his story.


    "When I was three years old, Nanay Issa and Tatay Leo found me sleeping on a bench on the night of Sinulog Festival. I knew only later, that my nanny took me out to watch the fireworks display as sponsored by my parents. I got afraid of the sound of erupting firecrackers that I ran without their knowledge and it was how the son of the famous yacht builder and designer got lost."


    "Many years after that, I went to the city to study and stayed with my aunt in Kamelyo. There I met a girl I fell in love with and married her a year after. Little did I know, that she held the secrets that toppled down the glory of the once impenetrable walls of the biggest drug syndicate of the country."


    "Afraid of her dear life the moment she knew that dad''s son was out for revenge, she ran away with a new identity for five years..."


    Ryan''s eyes grew wide as he heard it. At long last, the heavy task his family placed on him had finally drawn to its culmination. He was right after all in aiming his family''s revenge at Mr. Dioko and he rejoiced at the thought that he got an added bonus in discovering the truth that the main destroyer was not him but her daughter.


    His family had spent a great amount in their silent and separate investigation to know who was the traitor who sold the secret that destroyed his parents'' dream. An eye for an eye. A tooth for a tooth.  An innocent child for a parent...And he smiled inwardly at the thought that he sent his warning for revenge through the lovely and innocent Chloe.


    Though he had personal grudges against his parents, this mission was so important to prove himself that he was worthy to receive the legacy.

 Chapter 203 - The Islet Mystery 19

    Ryan moved closer to Shiela, and he wrapped his arms around her, interlacing his fingers in her abdomen. He buried his face in her shoulder as he listened, finding it hard to conceal his emotion. Shiela no longer had to pretend; Ryan was no longer leaving any room for everyone to question the status of their relationship.


    "What''s happening with you?" she whispered as she turned and glared at him, earning themselves the attention of everyone.


    Ryan fidgetted when he realized they were making a scene, and he apologized. "I''m so sorry. I am so emotionally weak that I get restless every time I hear a touching story."


    "And you''ll have Shiela''s bones broken at the end of this sharing!" Cherry quickly commented with a concealed amusement, feeling thrilled at their display of affection.


    Ryan laughed, and Shiela turned red. Seeing her discomfort, he drew her head towards him and pressed a kiss on her temple.


    "Please, let''s resume," Ryan then waved a hand for Ajie to continue, but he nudged Allie, instead.


    Allie gave him a quick stare as she hesitated but eventually, she cleared her throat and started speaking. "I always admired the thoughtfulness and generosity of what I called Mr. Dioko. Who would ever think that the time will come that he would introduce himself as my biological father?"


    "I was allowed entry to all of the secret chambers of the underground factory because the people there were mostly my neighbors and relatives. Not one of them would suspect an innocent child wandering around the premises since I was in elementary to gather pieces of secret information, and I grew up mastering the details of their dirty secrets."


    "Every day, I witnessed the killings, the riots, and domestic violence this illegal company has brought about. What hurt me more was that the workers, as well as those ruined families, were all my friends and relatives. Every day, my conscience haunted me until I finally decided when my best friend, Dino, promised to take care of everything. If I didn''t decide to put an end to this crime, how many more people this syndicate would affect? How many more children this drug will destroy?"


    "I ran away to save my loved ones. I had to die in their knowledge,  in order for them to live. I left my parents, my husband, and my daughter, only to realize that I fell into the enemy''s lair. While I was away, I worked for Hayri. He did not know I was the one he was hunting down for revenge..." Allie was already brushing her tears after she gave out the full picture of her experiences, including her engagement with Hayri.


    Everyone brushed their tears with Allie, and Shiela, the ever noted cry baby, was already sobbing in the arms of Ryan. More than anyone else, she could relate the most to her story because, in a way, this same syndicate and conspiracy connected them. She admired Allie for being so brave, and she thought she needed her strength to be able to overcome her fear.


    When everyone calmed down, Mr. Dioko raised his voice to continue the story. "I was on the brink of bankruptcy when I asked help from my closest business partner, Mr. Rivera. He offered me great financial support until my business stabilized again. I thought I would be paying them back, but one day, a certain Mr.& Mrs. Te came to see me."


    Shiela got startled, and she felt Ryan stiffening in discomfort also. Mr.& Mrs. Te was the parents of Ryan Paul Te, whose photo in the news article showed as Ryan Neil Yu. Why did Ryan use a different name? This question troubled her again, but Mr. Dioko''s voice disrupted it.


    "They told us that they owned the money and not Mr. Rivera. They said they would be using the basement of my factories and make it into a drug lab. I refused, but their answer was simple, they would require my son''s life. And they were not kidding when they said it; they even showed an example of shooting me on my shoulder. A few hours after, the news came to me that a gunman tried to kill Hayri by shooting him in the same location as mine. I understood then it was their warning."


    Mr. Lopez got horrified, and he sprang in his feet in utter shock."Dioko boy, you never told me about this. Why didn''t you approach me? I wouldn''t be this successful if it weren''t because of you."


    Mr. Dioko smiled sadly, and he tapped Mr. Angelo''s shoulders to show his gratitude. Then, he answered, "I also want you out of this. You are precious to me."


    Mr. Lopez suddenly cried in his anger and pity at the thought that Mr. Dioko had to endure this ordeal alone. They were good friends, and he felt too hurt that he was not there for him when he supposedly needed him the most.


    They all sniffed in their tears as they saw how the tough image of AJ&J Builders cried. Mrs. Lopez hugged her until his sobbing ebbed down. Then, Mr. Dioko continued.


    "To compensate for my sins in conceding to their plans, I multiplied my charitable activities. I want my son more than my life. To spare him from this evil world, though I explained to him the real situation, I grew businesses in foreign lands in his name, including Gretel Shipping Lines, under the management of my friend, Gregorio. What''s under my name were only those factories tarnished by those illegal movements."


    "I placed Hayri away from this as much as possible. This shouldn''t be his world. I wanted to see this day where he is making his name in a clean, business industry."


    This declaration of a father''s love moved everyone''s heart, including Ryan. His father was no longer a human with feelings. Greed and desire for more fame and riches dominated in his system and those prison bars did nothing to change his heart. Though Mr. Dioko was his target for revenge, he couldn''t help but see the difference in their personalities. And even if a sense of admiration sprang now in his heart, he should not allow this to rule his emotion.

 Chapter 204 - The Islet Mystery 20

    "I''ll make another cup of coffee for you," Ryan offered as he gave Shiela a squeezing hug before releasing her. The others were already taking a break as each took turns in using the bathroom. It was already late into the night, and none of them wavered in fatigue. Only Chloe was asleep, and Allie placed her in the bed.


    ''Neil, are you really fond of Myrtle Shade?" Shiela tried to test the water and see how Ryan would react. It earned them the attention of everyone as they refilled their cups.


    "Yes, because my family owns this."


    "Wow, so you own all those Myrtle Shade Cafes in the country?" Jane queried as she, herself, was fond of Myrtle Shade.


    "We offer franchising opportunities, and I am so amazed at how the people embrace it," Ryan answered casually as he continued stirring Shiela''s steaming mug.


    "But why are you not offering all the creamer flavors in instant packs?" Cherry butted in, curious to know more about the beverage, which enslaved her mother.


    "If we are going to do that, our shops will go bankrupt since the people can have it in instant packs. However, we accept special orders for important events."


    What Ryan just revealed, made sense. If they were going to offer all the flavors in instant packs, the coffee lovers'' intense addiction would stop. They could no longer mix into their cups the powdered extract of Chara''s blooms.


    "What is your source of coffee beans, dear?" Mrs. Lopez chimed in.


    "The choicest Arabica beans we grow in Luzon and Mindanao. We take great care in growing those trees and spend a tremendous amount of money to impose special farming techniques. One of these days, I will invite all of you there."


    "Wow, I''m excited!" Cherry exclaimed, and Allie got pleased with the change that she saw in her. Perhaps, the emotional release helped her become the happy person that she was until Andrew came into her life.


    When everyone returned to their places to continue their sharing, Shiela began to tremble. Even before she started, tears were already dripping from her eyes. Ryan squeezed her hand to comfort her. Above all, he was in dire need to know the truth.


    Collecting strength from all of them who dared to share their deep secrets, she inhaled deeply and slowly, and then she opened her mouth to speak.


    "I was in college when I fell in love with," she paused and threw Ryan a glance, and the latter responded by squeezing her hand, "Neil. Our secret relationship got deeper, and by the time we graduated in college, I was five months pregnant."


    "I hide the truth from my father because I didn''t want to disappoint him. He worked hard to provide for my needs, and I didn''t want to see him hurting because of me. I applied for a job in Japan, and before any of those companies replied through my mail, the college dean requested to see me. She informed me that MS Sciences, Inc., offered me a job and that I would work in Japan. And to make me accept the job, as they said they saw in me some potentials, they would give me a one-year advance salary."


    "I was happy. To work in Japan would help me hide my pregnancy until my son would be big enough and I would introduce him to my father. I want to spare my father the burden of taking care of me and my baby''s needs. Because, Ryan disappeared after I told him about my pregnancy, and I was left all alone."


    "I signed the contract, and the manager gave me right away the check which had a million in it. I was surprised, only to learn later that it was a payment for deceiving me. After all, money is just a toy for them. One day, a private helicopter that took me, landed in a place which until now I couldn''t tell where it was."


    "They offered me freedom in exchange for abortion, but I begged to work for them and forget about returning home as long as I can be with my baby. Somehow, they allowed it until I gave birth to the child. I swear he was healthy when the doctor placed him in my abdomen, but my exhaustion and pain dragged me to sleep."


    "When I woke up, they informed me that the baby died. They said he died because I was eclamptic and that the baby was also strangulated due to cord coil. After a few days, they showed me the grave."


    Shiela cried hard after telling this, and she couldn''t speak anymore. Ryan''s eyes turned dark, and everyone saw his trembling hands. He held Shiela in his arms, and his teeth were grinding in anger. He knew Shiela was not lying.


    "How were you able to return?" all of them threw the question almost simultaneously.


    Shiela was still sobbing hard, but she had come to a firm decision to let go of her fears and tell the truth. She had been a prisoner of her fears for a long time.


    "Someone injected a drug into my vein, and they did it for many days. They said it was medicine, but the one who injected it mocked me during my last dose. He wished me good luck because, as he said,  it was for my fake freedom. Once the drug would have its full effect on me, I would forget everything and would suffer an irreversible type of amnesia."


    "What happened then?" Ryan broke his silence finally. Every cell of his body was screaming in anger and humiliation.


    "They dropped me somewhere in the city, thinking that in a few days, I will totally lose my mind.  I did not, but my health gave way after that. I was able to contact my father, and he brought me to the hospital. The turn of events was fast. After three days, I could no longer move my limbs until I got intubated for many days." Shiela made it sure not to mention about the antidote. If Jullien was a scientist, then her failure to discover it''s great therapeutic effect was a shame.


    "God is so good because dad found ways to support all my medical needs, and after three years, I was able to walk again."


    ____


    Ryan got lost in his thoughts. His mind went back to that day when one of his trusted men told him that someone wanted to talk to him. He was fuming in anger in the knowledge that the only woman he loved,  sold their baby for a million peso. He entered his room to release his anger and let his fingers dance and fly over the keyboards, producing a beautiful sound of loneliness, anger, and frustration.


    When he slammed the keyboards to end the music, the man spoke and knelt behind him.


    "Sir, please save my daughter. I will serve you all my life, just please let her live."


    A strange feeling of unrest pushed him to see the man''s daughter. To his indescribable shock, as his whole body went trembling in anxiety that he almost went limp on the floor, she saw Shiela''s beautiful face. In her mouth and nose were tubings attached to beeping machines. The sight broke his heart a thousand times.


    "Doc, do everything to save her life..."

 Chapter 205 - The Islet Mystery 21

    "Drink this," Ryan picked up the coffee mug and held it out to Shiela''s lips. He realized he got lost in his thoughts, and the memories took him out of control.


    Shiela froze, and she frowned at him. What has gotten into his mind? Why would he let her drink the steaming fluid? This was something odd about him like he was out of his mind. She looked around him and saw that the rest of them were also watching Ryan''s strange behavior.


    Ajie then stood up and sat beside him. He tapped his shoulder and enclosed him with a manly hug.


    "Let it out, my friend. Crying doesn''t make men a coward."


    Hearing this, Ryan put down the cup and threw his arms around Shiela''s neck. In the next moment, he was already sniffing in his tears. His sniffing then became a sob, and Shiela''s heart sank with him. For who knew how long, he finally stopped, and his cries faded out slowly.


    "It''s not true that I disappeared. I told my parents about us, and you could not imagine how mad they were. They exiled me somewhere in the USA. They made it sure I''ll remember the pact my father and Jullien''s father made when they were younger. I am for her, and she is for me. But we both hate that. We do not love each other beyond mere friendship."


    "They let us attend the same university and bought a house for both of us. They let us drink a supplement that I found later as a sexual enhancer. Their purpose was clear; they wanted us to engage in intense sexual activities so that we will only be desiring for each other. Our parents know that we were both in love with someone else."


    Shiela''s heart broke at the thought of him doing the deed with Jullien. Ryan defined it as intense, and she knew where their parents got it. One of the side effects of Chara blooms was an increase in sexual libido. The people who got addicted to Myrtle Shade discovered it themselves, and in just a few months, the total sales of the company skyrocketed.


    "Jullien and I decided to trick our parents. We may be living under the same roof, but Jullien lived in a separate room with his boyfriend, whom we introduced as our mutual, bisexual friend. Lately, after a certain project has almost come to an end, our parents decided to set the wedding."


    "Jullien finally conceded. She broke up with Andy and decided to fly here with me on this island so she can set her mind ahead that in a few months, I''ll become her husband."


    Shiela felt she had no tears to shed anymore. This piece of information shattered her heart beyond repair. If Ryan was afraid of his parents, then she had no reason not to feel the same. Ryan''s fear would be hers if she would go against his parents'' will. The news was real after all, and a few months from now, Ryan and Jullien would be officially married.


    "Shiela, my parents are hardened criminals. They won''t hesitate to kill Jullien and me if they know about our tricks. I may not be able to get away from this wedding. They have their eyes and ears in all parts of the world," Ryan then proceeded to tell them about what happened after his confession.


    _____


    "Ryan, is this what you are boasting that your girl is not after our money? Look!" Mr. Te approached him like a roaring lion, ready to devour him into pieces. He slapped an invoice in his face, followed by a white envelope.


    Ryan picked up the piece of paper, and there he saw Shiela''s signature affixed in it, signifying that she accepted the one million pesos as payment for her decision to stay away from him. He also opened an ultrasound result showing the film and reading of a fetal demise. Shiela had aborted their child, and the glitters of gold, which only cost a few thousand, lured her into killing his child.


    He was still young, but he took by heart the advice of his caregivers who raised and cared for him like they were his birth parents. They were a couple who worked for them ever since he was at the age where he could already retain his memories.


    "Ryan, dear, women are sacred gifts from God. Be careful in choosing someone whom you want to be with throughout your whole lifetime. Be a one-woman man. Do not make promises which you can''t keep. Fight for the woman that will make you happy."


    "A single tear you cause a woman to shed will rob you of a lifetime peace and happiness. If ever you will fall into sinning which youngsters cannot usually resist, be responsible. Your child will be the life within you, and abandoning them will cause you a lifetime curse. If you are not afraid of them, there''s no place in this world where you can hide from God."


    Before he left the country, his parents allowed him to see them. He remembered how he cried hard as he told them about her parents'' decision.


    "Son, this is not your decision. I pray that the Almighty will make ways for both of you. Don''t lose hope."


    "Nay, Tay, who knows someday, you will come across with her. Please tell her that I love her. Please tell her that I do not intend to abandon her."


    "We will, son. That''s a promise."


    "By the way, her name is Shiela Ferrer."


    Ryan left the place with a heavy heart. Though their hideout was somewhere in the middle of the sea, a place hidden by a cove during low tide, for him, it was still a paradise. Though they were far away from the comforts and leisures of the city, he always loved to come back here. He always yearned for the pure love his nannies provided and the simplicity of their lifestyle.


    After a year, his parents informed him that a great earthquake destroyed their haven in the middle of the sea. The rocky cove collapsed and blocked the entrance to their beach house, burying their whole property, including their nannies.


    In honor of them, he bought Chara Island. The location was also favorable for his monitoring of their Chara blooms plantation.

 Chapter 206 - The Islet Mystery 22

    A ring on Ryan''s phone disrupted their emotional moments. Ryan took a glance at the caller''s name, and his expression gloomed. He accepted the call and spoke slowly; his eyes were on all of them.


    "I''ll call you back. Give me ten minutes," Ryan spoke into the line and his brows creased into a frown.


    Ryan then apologized that he had to cut their discussion off because he had to take the call and that it was important. He also told them that it might take him long, so everyone decided to call the night off. When everyone left and returned to their rooms, he assisted Shiela into their bed and tucked her in.


    "Don''t wait for me, dear. Dad is on the other line, and I''m expecting it to be a long discussion."


    He then bent down and gave her a quick smack on the lips. "Good night, baby. I want you to know before you sleep that though I live in a world of lies, there is one thing I am true. I love you."


    Shiela stared at him, and she saw pain and sincerity in his eyes. Her eyes glistened with a threatening outbreak of tears. She pulled down his neck with her two hands and planted him a good night kiss as well.


    "Good night, Neil."


    Shiela then closed her eyes and curled up her legs and arms, placing herself into a fetal position. Ryan sat by her side for a while and brushed her hair with his fingers. His thoughts were on how he would answer his father. Due to his father''s connections and the sum of money he


    spent to gain a special favor, he was able to buy the loyalty of a certain jail warden. Every time that officer reported to his unit, he would allow his father to call anyone once a week.


    He did not return the call until his dad gave another ring. He stared at Shiela and watched her drifting off to sleep. He realized how fast she fell asleep. He got amused at the thought that this woman slept like lard, despite being depressed or emotionally disturbed. No wonder she almost died a while ago.


    He then slumped at the couch and turned his phone on speaker mode. He swiped the call icon and answered the call. Little did he know that Shiela was not only good at sleeping, but she was also good at pretending to sleep.


    "Ryan, what''s your progress? You are already taking so long. Act fast if you still want me to place your name on my last will. You know very well that you have no right to all my businesses and properties should you fail me. I already feel I''m not going to live longer."


    "Dad, I''m almost there. Just give me more time. They are all in my hands now."


    "I could no longer wait how you would crush the head of that serpent Gerald. You should do it with your own hands. Until then, my soul with be at peace."


    "Dad, it''s not Gerald Dioko who did it. I find it out."


    "What? Good job, Ryan, boy!"


    "The story is long, dad, but it was she who betrayed us and sold the blueprints and passcodes to all our secret chambers in the lab."


    "So, who are you going to kill? His daughter?"


    "Of course. Allyza''s death would also be the father''s death."


    "I''ll send my men to help you there.''


    "Dad, your name is already on the surveillance list. I have my way of doing this. No need to act harshly. I am working as a wolf beneath the mask of a lamb."


    "Good, baby boy. I''ll call my lawyer now. I would also make a prenuptial agreement that Jullien would not share your inheritance from me."


    "Do as you wish, dad."


    "By the way, you don''t really need assistance?"


    "Joey is enough."


    "Okay, son, then I''ll be off."


    "Dad, may I ask two questions?"


    "Sure."


    "Did you threaten to kill Mr. Dioko''s son to get his loyalty?"


    "Of course. That Mr. Dioko is a fool. He wants to stick to clean businesses. How could he recover his loss?"


    "Then, dad, is our previous hideout far from here?"


    "Ah, I-I can no longer tell. The earthquake broke down the landmark also. Why do you ask?"


    "I''m just wondering. I love that place."


    Shiela stiffened in her bed. She pretended to snore, too afraid that she wouldn''t be able to conceal her reaction. Her heart was beating fast, taking her breath away. She couldn''t imagine how treacherous Ryan was. He had everyone in his hand, and she was afraid they could no longer go out of this trap. She had to act fast before everything would be too late! She could not allow Allie to die.  Allie was so good and compassionate to her, and she already had more than enough miseries to break her down.


    On the other hand, she found it hard, even in her thoughts, to betray Ryan. She knew he loved her, though he loved his family''s wealth more. She could not afford, even in her dreams, to see him cuffed and dragged to jail. Between him and Allie, he held a much deeper place in her heart. What should she do? Should she warn Allie and give her tips to survive on this island?


    To her relief, she heard footsteps going away, followed by a clicking sound of a closing door. She took a deep breath and sat up quickly. Ryan went out, and her mind went wild. Where was he going now? Was he going to kill Allie now? The thought of this made her heartbeats race even faster. She felt she could not last this long this way. Her heart would surely explode!


    She went to the window and looked out. The moon had shone brightly above the still, blue water. The storm had calmed down already, and the whole place was serene. It was such a beautiful night to bask under the moonlight.


    She remembered that their room was close to the exit. Picking up her jacket, she walked out of the room and went outside through the exit door. All she needed at the moment was fresh air and a clear mind.


    Finding herself a good place to stay, she settled down on a bench facing the sea. The water was silent, with only tiny waves rolling out on the shore. The water level was already ebbing down, and soon the moonlight would be hiding beneath the clouds. She then fixed her gaze on the horizon, and in the next moment, her eyes lit up. Not far away, a  vague outline of a rocky cove appeared like a dark shadow.

 Chapter 207 - The Islet Mystery 23

    As far as she could remember, the arch of the cove stood like a towering, archeological pillar of stones, spreading like a gateway to the paradise beneath it. It formed a wide, rocky canopy to a vast area, several miles away from the entrance. However, one could only appreciate it during low tide. Glistening stalactites and stalagmites spread all over the canopy, giving anyone a memorable experience in canoeing within the area.


    On the far end, stood a beach house owned by Ryan''s family, and even without asking, she knew their laboratory was not far from there. However, the area covered by the cove could only be appreciated during low tide because the water level would rise and fill the whole place. The sea level would shut the entrance to the beautiful haven inside. The people living there should know when to get in and out.


    As to how she looked at that dark, hovering figure, it might be true that an earthquake hewed it down. She was trying to imagine what could happen if the cove collapsed. Did it sink the house below the sea level and buried all the people alive?


    Her heart ached at the thought. She lived there for less than a year, until Ryan''s parents set her free. In her stay there, she knew about the secret behind Myrtle Shade. Most of the time, the lab personnel talked among themselves, never caring about her presence. They all thought she was harmless, and probably, they did not expect that she would be able to go out alive in that place. If it were not for Ryan''s parents setting her free, she would have loved to stay there longer. She gained the love and favor of two old couples who lived in that house. She called them "nanay" and "tatay" in respect of their age, and they indeed cared for her like her parents.


    "Chara bloom is a medicinal plant. Our forefathers used it to treat all types of diseases, only that you should limit the numbers of leaves. If ever you can have more than what you only need, make a concoction out of its flowers. We called it here a miracle plant."


    One time, she felt discomfort in her lower abdomen, and the two elderlies sat by her side until morning.


    "Shiela, you need to eat one to three leaves a day to have a healthy pregnancy. Be sure not to take more. It is rich in nutrients. Ryan would be happy to see the baby someday."


    "You know about it?"


    "Yes, we do, but don''t tell anyone about it. You should take enough rest and do not worry about anything at all. A day will come that everything will be alright."


    Tears ran down her face as she thought about Ryan disowning them, but the elderlies comforted her.


    "We know that boy. He will never turn his back on you. Only that his parents wouldn''t allow him, but believe me, he''ll find his way to you."


    Shiela did not realize that she was already sobbing hard. Was it true that the earthquake buried them alive? They were both kindhearted, and they didn''t deserve to die that way.


    "You''re sneaking out again. I should assign you a bodyguard!" Ryan"s angry broke her reverie.


    Ryan sat beside her and placed an arm around her the moment he saw her crying again.


    "Why do you always have to cry?"


    "I had a nightmare, and I saw nanay and tatay in my dreams. I miss them," Shiela replied, glancing up at him.


    "Ryan, when your parents exiled me. nanay and tatay took care of me. Could they be your nannies?"


    Ryan pulled his brows together and stared at her."So, it means they locked you there. Their wickedness is too much already. I don''t believe our son died; my parents killed him!"


    Shiela got surprised at his reaction. A while ago, he was like a lamb, taking in the wishes of his father, but now he was angry as if he could kill them any moment. She no longer replied; the memory of their child was always too much to bear.


    "Shiela, they are the real Mr. and Mrs. Yu. I am their son, but when I got sick when I was an infant, my parents asked them to bring me to the hospital. They no longer returned me to them and registered me as Ryan Paul Te. The Te''s cannot bear a child. After many years, they introduced nanay and tatay as my nannies and let me live with them."


    "But why are you still using the Yu?"


    "There''s more to the story. I will tell you more about it in the future. For now, let''s go back. I''m already tired."


    Ryan cuddled her tightly and fell asleep as soon as they lay their heads on the pillow. No matter how tight Shiela closed her eyes, sleep eluded her. Her thoughts flew again somewhere, and she started planning the right thing she needed to do.


    Eventually, Shiela got tired of so much thinking, and her drowsiness shut up her mind. She burrowed her head into Ryan''s chest and was about to sleep when Ryan''s phone vibrated. After two attempts, she felt Ryan moved and separated her gently from him. The bed bounced in his side, and she knew, he stood up.


    Still closing her eyes and feigning sleep, she listened to his movements, and in the next seconds, his footsteps faded. Soon, a sound of the door opening and closing told her that he went out of that secret exit.


    Shiela waited for a moment, but ten minutes had passed, and still, he hadn''t come back. Her heartbeats went racing fast again as she started to speculate that he went to Jullien''s room. Unable to endure her curiosity and the build-up of pain and jealousy in her heart, she stood up and walked towards the door.


    To her surprise, she saw another fitted box near the door. If it were not for Ryan opening the first box on the other door, she would not have known that there was a monitor hidden in it. She tried to open it, and to her shock, he saw Ryan on the monitor. The video was clear, and she could even hear their conversation.


    "Ryan, I could not take it anymore. I want you. That stuff doesn''t work on me anymore. I need a real one."


    Ryan sighed and looked at her with a frown. Before Shiela could blink, Jullien threw her robe away, and Shiela''s eyes flew wide in seeing her completely naked.

 Chapter 208 - The Islet Mystery 24

    "Ryan, help me. We will soon be husband and wife. What holds you back?" Jullie murmured while pulling down Ryan''s head. She then reached out to claim his lips, but Ryan avoided it.


    "How many times I told you to stop taking it?" Ryan glowered, looking down at Jullien''s trembling, nude self.


    "I''ll go crazy, Ryan. Just this once," she begged, running her hands over his chest, to his side, then down to his ass.


    "Where are your toys? I''ll hold them for you."


    "It''s not working anymore. I want the real one!" Jullien was already crying in frustration, hugging Ryan afterward and grinding her nude self to his lower front.


    "Give me your dildo!"


    "I don''t want it. I want you!" Jullien''s voice was already hoarse with lust, and she acted like crazy in running her hands and mouth over Ryan''s body.


    Shiela shuddered as she watched them. She had never known a desperate, sex-hungry woman as she saw her now. She then saw Jullien pulling Ryan''s pants down, kneeling in the next moment, grabbing his manhood like it was her life support. Ryan pushed her away, pulling up his pants upward, and then she saw him opening up a drawer and pulling out a what-must-have-looked-like a vibrator. Jullien followed him and hugged her from behind, licking on his ear lobes.


    When Ryan turned abruptly, Jullien almost fell to the side, but Ryan was quick to hold her. He then pushed her towards the bed, and Jullien fell on her back. She hurriedly sat up and pulled down Ryan''s pants again, using her full strength. Without any delay, she trapped his hips with her arms and captured his shaft with her mouth.


    "Stop it, Jullien. The more you''ll get frustrated with me. I told you I am suffering from ED!"


    "The hell I care. I want to nibble on a real, piece of meat," Jullien grumbled when Ryan pushed her away again.


    Jullien tried to grab his thing again, but Ryan stuffed the dildo in her mouth, and she calmed down a bit. Ryan strode back to the drawer and pulled another sex toy and turned it on. He then pushed Jullien back on the bed, separated her legs apart, and plunged the shaft into her cunt.


    Ryan moved away from the bed and took a deep sigh. He watched Jullien trembling and moaning in pleasure as she kneaded her breasts. He then turned and walked towards the door, and Shiela ran back to the bed, pulling up the cover to hide her face. She panted heavily, too overwhelmed by what she saw.


    ED. The words Ryan said, rang in her head. He said he had an ED? The acronym stands for Erectile Dysfunction, right? Just a day ago, Ryan''s manhood was as hard as a rock inside her, and as far as she could remember, his thrusting lasted long. It was surely not how someone with an ED performs.


    A few minutes after,  she heard footsteps, then a slumping sound on the couch, not far from her. Ryan had returned, and she could hear his labored breathing as if he had just a strenuous fight over the bed.


    "Where are you now? I won''t sleep until you arrive. I hate to be troubled again."


    Shiela wondered who he was talking to, and her heart dropped at the thought that Ryan had so many activities that she did not know. He kept too many secrets, and she felt she could never be a part of his world.


    She relaxed when she heard him opening up the bathroom, and in a few seconds, she heard running water from the shower. He took a bath. Was he afraid that Jullien''s scent would stick on his skin? Was he conscious that she might notice it? For sure, if she weren''t around, lying on his bed, Ryan would surely devour Jullien. Even with her desperate moves, she looked sexy. Her breasts were taut and full. Her curves were lovely, and her physique was that of a famous model born for a runway. Too bad that she acted like a mad dog, too hungry for sexual pleasure like she didn''t have it for years.


    She was still on her reverie when Ryan returned. He sat by her bedside as she was pushed to the side when the bed bounced. She forgot that she was pretending and she opened her eyes without thinking. Ryan saw her, and he reached out to her forehead and brushed her hair again with his fingers.


    "I''m sorry to wake you up," he apologized, and his look softened up. He was frowning when she first look at him.


    "You''re awake," she pretended she did not know.


    "Yes, I just took a shower."


    "You feel hot?"


    "I feel dirty."


    "Because you slept beside me?"


    "Of course, not. You may not take a bath for days, and I would still love to be by your side."


    "Then why do you feel dirty?"


    "Sleep again, baby," Ryan placed a hand on her mouth to let her stop asking. Then he lay by her side and cuddled her.


    Having him beside her in a warm embrace and feeling his warm breath on top of her head, made her feel secure. She wished to stay like this forever, but somehow, they lived in two different worlds. She started to feel confused. If she chose to reveal what she heard during his conversation with his dad, she would be hurting him. She could not afford it, but she knew she should be doing what''s good for many.


    Before she knew it, both of them fell into a deep sleep. She woke up later by the blinding light of the sun. Their bed was beside the glass wall, and during early mornings, the sun would shine directly at their room. Seeing her move, Ryan kissed the top of her head. She kissed him back, overwhelmed by his sweetness, though an inner voice was telling her not to give her all.


    Prompted by her action, his kisses went deeper, and it ended him burrowing inside her. And dear skies, his mind-blowing swiftness that in the next minute would become maddening slow and hard, was never an ED!

 Chapter 209 - The Islet Mystery 25

    Though how much they wanted to stay in bed and enjoy the bliss of being together, they had to get up to spend breakfast with everyone. Shiela''s heart sank in the fact that she had to face reality again. How she wished time would stand still and allow her to indulge more time with the man she loved.


    All of them were already seated in the dining room when they arrived, except Jullien. But as soon as they settled themselves beside each other, Jullien''s cheerful voice greeting them echoed into the room. Knowing her place, Shiela stood up to give way for Jullien, but Ryan stopped her.


    "Why are you afraid to sit down beside me?" Ryan spoke in a rather loud voice, earning them the attention of everyone, including Jullien.


    Shiela felt she could faint in discomfort, afraid that Jullien might humiliate her. "It''s alright, dear. Ryan and I have more time together."


    Shiela got surprised by her good mood. Just a few hours ago, she looked like a hungry beast in the middle of a dessert.


    "Where is he?" Ryan asked, and before Jullien could answer, a deep baritone voice spoke from the doorway, making all of them glance in his direction.


    "Good morning, everyone!" the man greeted all of them with a broad smile. He was as tall as Ryan, and his handsome features couldn''t go behind those of Ryan and Ajie. He had a beard in his chin, running towards both of his ears, all cleanly shaved.


    Addressing everyone''s questioning gazes, Ryan spoke to introduce him. "He is Andy. He just arrived a few hours ago, to assist Jullien in her project."


    The rest of them greeted him back as Ryan continued the task of introducing each one of them. When it was Shiela''s turn, the grin on Andy''s face reached to his ears, and he stretched out his hand to shake with her.


    "Happy to meet you, Miss Shie," Andy said, casting a teasing look at Ryan then he continued, "no wonder why my friend got crazy over you."


    Shiela gasped, Jullien was there, and as she expected the worst, Jullien frowned and asked, "Who? Ryan?"


    Andy scratched his head, and as everyone held their breaths, he spoke again. "Oh, have I not told you? We ordered a truckload of paints from her company. And I heard from her officemates, that my friend, who is her business partner in that paint factory, is madly in love with her."


    Shiela got shocked, as well as the rest, but she quickly concealed it. She didn''t know what he was talking about, but she was glad that he saved her by the bell.


    "Is that true, Shiela?" Ryan feigned surprise, and she did not know how to react.


    Finally, she found her words, "Can we stop talking about me? I''m not comfortable at all."


    Ryan laughed and said, "Shie, can you introduce him to us?"


    "Shut up."


    Ryan laughed again, and he stood up afterward to fill two cups with hot water. He scooped spoonfuls of coffee powder and poured it into the cups. He then handed the other cup to Shiela and said, "You decide on the amount of sugar."


    "Thank you," Shiela replied, but she remained looking down at her plate. In her peripheral vision, she saw Jullien making her coffee. This scene troubled her. Everybody witnessed how Ryan pampered her. She didn''t know if Jullien was only acting dumb. How could she not notice it? She could not also say that she was just used to Ryan''s sweetness this time, as she claimed it before. Ryan never withheld his special treatment on her, and she must have noticed it by now.


    Jullien peeled of a sachet of creamer, and he handed one to Andy. She caught the label through her side vision, and the bold letters spelled out, "Caffe affogato."


    Shiela looked up unconsciously, and Jullien caught her eyes. Too late to look away, Jullien smiled at her and said, "Do you like some?"


    Afraid that refusing might appear as an insult for her, she smiled back and reached out for the sachet.


    "Thank you," Shiela said, and as soon as her hand touched the pouch, Ryan roared against her ear, and she jolted in her seat.


    "No! Jullien, how many times I told you to stop this! You are not learning your lessons."


    Jullien stole a glance at Andy before she replied, "I can''t help it."


    "You''re obviously not making an effort. If you''re not complying, don''t involve Shiela in this."


    Shiela felt the tension as much as the rest did, though she knew that they didn''t understand what they were talking about. Ryan appeared to be not cautious, and they were all afraid that it might earn Shiela some troubles from Jullien.


    Before everyone got over with their uneasiness, Chloe''s sweet voice floated into their ears.


    "Auntie is taking sweets, uncle?"


    Ryan chuckled, and it dispelled off the tension in the air."Yes, baby. Caffe affogato creamer contains the highest amount of artificial sweeteners."


    "Is it harmful to the body?" Chloe''s glowing, rounded eyes amused Ryan further.


    "Exactly, baby, because it is so sweet."


    "Like ice cream?"


    "It''s different because coffee contains caffeine. It has effects on the nervous system, plus the sugar."


    "So, I can eat ice cream sometimes?"


    "Yes, baby. You want some now?"


    Shiela was not listening anymore. She remembered Cherry said that her mother was addicted to that particular creamer. And during their discussion, she confessed that her mother seduced all her boyfriends. Could it be related to her intake of the creamer?  Was her adverse sexual desire similar to Jullien?


    She decided to talk to Cherry later and advise her to take her mother to a psychiatrist. If she would let her mother stop the use of the creamer abruptly, the withdrawal syndrome may not be tolerable. There were medications for it if those who were addicted were willing to take the leap of change.


    When Shiela returned to her room later, and Ryan remained to make arrangements for the boats they would be using for their island hopping, she thought of rechecking the monitor. She had doubts about Andy, especially when he and Jullien took their exit together. She thought Ryan was calling earlier to the so-called Joey he mentioned to his dad, but she got surprised when it turned out to be Andy.


    Just as she suspected, she saw Jullien and Andy clinging to each other, grabbing and panting like wild dogs, in heavy sexual activity. Suddenly, Shiela felt she no longer understood Ryan at all.

 Chapter 210 - The Islet Mystery 26

    Shiela took a shower and changed into a floral, halter-style maxi beach dress. While waiting for the arrival of the boats, she planned to take a walk around the islet. What she saw on the monitor disturbed her so much, and the constraints of the wall of the house suffocated her. Unlike Ryan, Andy indulged himself in his sex with Jullien. He was as mad as her, wanting everything about her body. Their moans and groans played in her mind like a broken audiotape, and she wanted to shake it off her system.


    She left the room as soon as she got her preparation done, bringing along with her everything that she may need. Just as she was about to pass by Jullien''s room, the door opened, and seeing Andy coming out from there, made her jump. Her mouth dropped open, and her eyes got wide as she met his gaze. Perhaps because her mind was on him and Jullien, she got startled. Even without him knowing that she was watching them on that intense fight in bed, she felt guilty. She shouldn''t have done that; it was an invasion of their privacy.


    "I guess I know that look," Andy said, gazing down at her without smiling.


    Her heart pounded, and suddenly, she got lost for words. She decided to ignore him, and walked fast, exiting through the main door. Just as she reached the place where she stayed the night before, his soft chuckle jolted her again that she almost stumbled.


    "You''re going to tell Ryan about your suspicion? Don''t worry, dear, he was the one who asked me to come over."


    Shiela suddenly stopped in her tracks as she gazed up at him, her face registering surprise and confusion. Since he set up the bait, she might as well retrieve it and cast it back on him.


    "You must have known that they are already engaged, haven''t you?"


    "In three months."


    His prompt answer surprised her in a different way that she stood staring at him for a moment, trying to process in her mind what they were all up to. This was all absurd. Ryan was making love with her with Jullien under the same roof, and here comes Andy, indulging himself in that same, sinful deed with his fiancee.


    "I could not understand it."


    "Yes, dear, you''re right. How could one ever understand? It''s different in your case. Ryan loves you, and you are his life, but what about me? I am just a sex toy, a nobody, a piece of trash in their world. Worst of all, I can never be Ryan. Never be."


    Shiela swore she could read the sense of pain lurking behind the broad grin that spread on his face, right after he said it. His beautiful eyes that seemed to be always smiling did nothing to conceal the hurt and anger his message had conveyed.


    " I am just a worthless researcher who works for her in her lab. Those several years in study and those years of service for her business doesn''t qualify me to stand by her side. Her heart and soul is for Ryan alone. I even wonder how he gets out of this. Or, has he also conceded on his defeat just as Jullien does?"


    The humor this man showed during the breakfast, and the cheerfulness that seemed to emanate from his aura was all gone. The man who was standing before her now was a different person, wretched, broken, and discarded.


    To change the topic, she thought of a light subject that would cheer him on, but instead, she ended asking something foolish, which she regretted later on. "Where is she?"


    "Asleep. Finally, Jullien has relaxed and slept after many days of restlessness."


    Shiela frowned; Jullien was always energetic, and she never looked tired. "Restlessness?"


    "Yes. Ever since Jullien''s family set the date of their marriage, Jullien broke up with me and came over here to start accepting her doom. That didn''t come out easily for her. She suffered from withdrawal syndrome."


    "I don''t get it," Shiela whispered; these people had too much mysteries.


    "Ever since we were in college, Jullien started taking up a supplement, and in her innocence, she thought it was an immune booster. The effect was hilarious, it always lifted her mood, and we have good sex. Their parents intended to give the supplement for her and Ryan, but Ryan refused to take it."


    "You wouldn''t be able to imagine, Jullien is addicted even if she found out later that it is a form of drug her company produced, and that one of the adverse effects is sexual addiction."


    "So, you are also addicted?" Shiela knew it was something too personal.


    "Unlike her, I''m addicted to her as herself and not because of the drug. I know the antidote, the flower of Chara blooms."


    Shiela was already shaking; the revelation was too much for her. Before she could grasp for words, Andy continued.


    "My heart aches for her. She knows Ryan doesn''t love her and that her affection for him might never be returned. She decides to double her effort, or else, Ryan might call her dreamed wedding off. But that didn''t come out easily for her. She suffered from withdrawal syndrome, and Ryan never gave in to her needs even if she begged. His open rejection makes her feel dejected."


    Shiela looked at him, horrified even more. The scenes of Jullien begging for his attention flashed before her. Those bold, desperate moves when she cried hard, begging Ryan to make love to her, shook her heart. She even went to the extent of tearing her self -worth when she undressed before him and showed him her greed for sex.


    So, it indeed meant that her depression, which prompted her to take more Chara blooms, was because of Ryan''s rejection and her fear that Ryan might run away on their wedding day.  She came here to make sure she can secure Ryan to herself. These facts were too mindblowing!


    "Andy, why don''t you give her the antidote?"


    "Its the only link that binds her to me, something Ryan cannot give."


    "You love her."


    "More than my life."


    "Why are you telling me all these?" Shiela started to cry. She was hurting in her despair, and she was  also hurting for Andy."


    "It''s because we share the same fate, and above all others, you can understand me the most."

 Chapter 211 - The Islet Mystery 27

    Shiela got lost in her thoughts while gazing into the vast stretch of the sea, thinking about all those things Andy had said. A sound of laughter made her turn around. To her amusement, Andy also glanced up and their eyes locked for a moment before both of them turned to where the laughter came. Partially hidden by a big tree, they both saw Ryan and Jullien coming in their direction. They seemed to be talking about something funny.


    Shiela could never fathom the absurdity of the situation, seeing how they could laugh together as if nothing happened. A few hours ago, Ryan was fuming in his disgust over Jullien''s outrageous seduction, and now, he seemed to be basking in his adoration for her. Wasn''t she sleeping as Andy said a while ago? Probably, Ryan woke her up. How could he afford to leave her alone after all? The thought of this tormented her again.


    "I may hate to admit it," Andy began stating his unsolicited opinion, "but they look so beautiful together. As if they are indeed born for each other."


    Shiela bit her lower lip and wished that Andy would just shut up. She''s never good at hiding her emotion, and his comment only added insult to her injury, a grain of salt to her bleeding wound.


    "What do you think, Shie?"


    Shiela didn''t also want to admit it, but Andy was too heartless, not allowing her to keep her emotion to herself.


    "I agree with what you say," she answered, "They are lovely."


    Ryan laughed, but his eyes reflected a shadow of what he truly felt inside, and Shiela couldn''t help herself from hurting for him again.


    "Aren''t you planning to do something?" Ryan asked after some moments of silence.


    "Like what?"


    "To fight for your love."


    This time, it was Shiela''s turn to laugh. Bitterness crept up inside her, and laughing was the safest way to hold back the tears she was trying to push inside.


    "I have long accepted my fate, Andy. I am just indulging myself in this borrowed time."


    Andy laughed harder, but Shiela saw those tears stinging in his eyes. She realized, Andy was hurting as much as she did. In this particular game in life, they both came out as losers.


    "You both seem to be enjoying together," Jullien''s sweet voice startled Shiela. She was too absorbed in her melancholy that she forgot about them.


    She looked up and ran her eyes to both of them and then to Ryan. She then gave out a generous but hesitant smile to acknowledge their presence. Andy must have felt her rising discomfort beneath her fake smile because he laughed out loud, with no sparks of humor in his eyes at all. It served the purpose anyway, grabbing Ryan and Jullien''s attention back to him.


    "I never thought Shiela to have lots of humor in her system," he lied, trying to sound as believable as he could.


    Shiela responded with a smile, almost tempted also to say," I never thought you are a good actor." Before she could speak out, Ryan moved to her side and placed a hand on her shoulder.


    "You ready, guys?" Ryan asked, completely ignoring their topic.


    "I think we are."


    Ryan glanced up towards the shore, and Shiela followed his eyes. She then saw a small, white yacht coming in their direction. The vessel looked so beautiful as she wayed gracefully against the waves. The lovely sight brought a frown to Shiela''s face, never expecting that they would go out in such a grand and luxurious island cruise.


    "You don''t like it?" Ryan''s voice broke into her ears. He may have watched the change of her reaction.


    "I am surprised. I thought we would go out on boats."


    "Oh, you''re underestimating the resources of the heir of MS Sciences," Andy butted in, and Shiela frowned at him.


    "No, I''m underestimating the lethal effect of your tongue," she ranted, but Andy giggled in response. Sheila shook her head, how could she ever understand his weirdness.


    ______


    Soon, all of them entered into the yacht, and gasps of admiration filled the atmosphere. Some corners showed the manufacturer''s logo, and it read as "Rina DK Builders." Allie gasped in awe as soon as she saw it, and tears of joy filled her eyes.


    "Ryan, you''re so full of surprises! This yacht is my design," she exclaimed happily, running her eyes through all the corners of the craft.  Everyone shared her joy. They all roamed around and took in the elegance and the intricacy of this work of art.


    "I do not expect that this would arrive earlier," Ryan laughed as well, Allie''s happiness was too contagious.


    "If you don''t mind, may I have a moment with you and Adrian?"


    "Of course," Allie answered, dragging Ajie in his arm as Ryan led the way towards a suite.


    "I''m buying a fleet, and Hayri is taking care of it," Ryan began stating his intention as soon as he had the couple seated on a couch. "I''ll have it cruising around the Arabian Gulf, somewhere my dad would never venture. Something happened in the past, and I can''t tell you about it."


    Ajie and Allie nodded, too surprised in this revelation. Although Hayri was still the one taking care of the company, he already transferred the ownership of Rina DK Builders to Allie''s name. Hayri didn''t want to occupy her with so much burden, now that a baby was on the way. It might stress her up, aside from the travels she had to take.


    "Please register it under Shiela''s name. Tell her about it when the right time comes," Ryan''s expression started to change, and his voice began to crack. Allie and Ajie just stared at him, giving him their full attention.


    "Allie, Adrian, we may not be able to talk again, so I want to discuss my plans with you right now if you don''t mind."


    Allie and Ajie nodded again. The atmosphere started to get heavy for Allie as she felt their agenda would be something delicate. Ryan seemed to hold too many mysteries beneath his cheerful and amicable facade.

 Chapter 212 - The Islet Mystery 28

    The closed-door meeting lasted long, and Shiela started to wonder what went on. How she wished she could be a part of his plans, of his life, but sadly, she could not. Ryan did not even include her in whatever topic he was discussing with Allie and Ajie. The more it showed he didn''t want her to be a part of his world. After this short vacation, they would be back to their previous status as mere business acquaintances.


    "Shie," Jane''s voice interrupted her sad thoughts as she gazed far into the smokey shade of the looming island the vessel was closing into. She stayed on the deck since the craft glided its way into the vast outstretch of the sea. She turned over her shoulder and find Cherry as well, bringing with her a set of binoculars and a camera.


    "This place is heavenly!" she exclaimed cheerfully as she fitted her eyes into the binoculars and looked around. Her vision caught the leaping fishes, and she squealed in happiness. Jane joined in, and soon, they were giggling in excitement, making Shiela wish she could do the same. Her troubled mind wouldn''t allow her.


    "Ladies, are you enjoying?" Ryan suddenly spoke from behind them, and Shiela''s heart almost jumped in excitement. She hated this stupid feeling; this would only lead to her doom.


    However, her heart sank as she turned and saw Jullien beside him. His hand was on her waist and damned it; she looked too seductive in her floral shorts over her backless one-piece suit. Ryan did not even care to remove his hand even if he knew she''s looking at them. To avoid further embarrassment, she picked up her camera and pretended to take photos of those spectacular views. However, her mind was not with what she was doing. She wondered where Andy was at this moment. How could he allowed these two to break their hearts? She felt she was already getting crazy in trying to understand all of them. In a moment, he was too sweet, but in the next, he was flirting with Jullien.


    "Baby, do it this way."


    Shiela''s heart almost burst out of its rib cage with that endearment. How could he afford to say sweet things at her while seconds ago, he was intimate with Jullien? Not only that, Jullien was there, watching them.


    "Excuse me for a while. I feel nauseous." Shiela suddenly regretted her excuse, and it appeared she was only seeking attention. Just as she expected, Ryan frowned and held her arm as he stared at her.


    "I''ll take you somewhere you can rest," Ryan offered, his eyes started to dim in worry.


    "It''s the rocking of the vessel and, perhaps, my worsening astigmatism. Not a big deal."


    Shiela sauntered off the deck, leaving Ryan gazing back at her in a puzzled look, holding her camera. Then she realized her emotion showed, and to conceal it again; she looked back at Ryan over her shoulder.


    "Can you please take pictures for me? I''ll be right back."


    Ryan stared at her for a moment before he replied. "Sure."


    Roaming around the corners of the yacht, Shiela finally found Andy, sitting alone on a chaise lounge. He seemed to be in deep thoughts since he did not notice her presence. She wanted to scold him for being so lenient in his hold to Jullien, lessening his remaining time with him


    "Andy," she called out his name softly. Andy got startled and sprang to his feet, but in the next moment, he was already grinning.


    "You miss me too soon," Andy teased, but seeing her displeased reaction, he laughed.


    "I''m only kidding. By the way, what brought you here?"


    "Just want to ask why are you here alone while your ex-girlfriend and your best friend are roaming around like doves?"


    Andy shrugged off and replied lazily. "It''s part of the show. Their parents have dark eyes monitoring them."


    Shiela stood gazing at the very same place she came and stopped, gaping at what he said. All the while, she was hurting in seeing them together, only to be told she was just deceived by what she saw. However, whether it was a display or not, the fact that their marriage was coming soon, was not going to change. Ryan himself told every one of them about the impossibilities.


    "Are you consumed now with your jealousy?" Ryan teased, laughing.


    "And you''re not?"


    "Never. Just shattered."


    Shiela laughed over his craziness in handling this matter. How could this man grin despite a shattered heart? It was such a pity that Jullien''s family did not see him as he was or even appreciated his worth. Loyalty is something money cannot buy.


    Lost in her thoughts again, she lay on the chaise lounge next to Ryan and closed her eyes. The swaying of the craft and the cool breeze dragged her to sleep, only to be awakened later by a touch on her thigh. Startled, her eyes flew wide and saw Ryan hovering over her.


    "Are you alright?"


    "I''m sorry. I fell asleep."


    Ryan offered her his hand, and Shiela held on to it. Before she could dangle her legs out, Jullien came over, panting. They both looked up, and Andy sprang up to her feet. Jullien''s legs were already shaking, and sweat poured out from her temples.


    "Andy, I need coffee."


    Andy moved his eyes sideways and stole a look at Shiela, shifting his gaze afterward between Ryan and Jullien. "Sure, I''ll make one for you."


    "No! You''re getting worse. I''ll have your psychiatrist fly over her to help you. What is bothering you this time?" Ryan heaved out a deep sigh before throwing out a frustrated look.


    "Mom and dad called me up," Jullien said, her expression seemed like she was about to drop a bomb. She then turned to Andy and said, "Andy, please, I need it now."


    "Then what?" Ryan ignored her request to Andy.


    "They said they are moving the date of our wedding into this month''s end," Jullien replied, her eyes started to get red, as well as her face.


    "Worry about it later on. You must address this addiction first," Ryan''s angered tone made Andy disappear before them like a flash of lightning.


    "You don''t understand me at all," Jullien''s voice already cracked, and her lips twisted into a smirk.


    "You''re killing yourself already!"


    Jullien wasn''t able to hold it back anymore. Her tears started to well down from her eyes. "Sooner or later, I would still die."


    "Yes, you will if you won''t do something about this foolishness."


    Jullien did not say anything for a moment as she broke into a sob. Gathering her strength back after some moments, she continued, "The thought of losing Andy is killing me. Ryan, you don''t know how much I love him."


    Ryan and Shiela stared at her in disbelief. Both of them held the assumption that she only wanted Andy for her sexual needs. Yet, the one who got surprised the most, sent the cup of coffee shattering down at their feet.

 Chapter 213 - The Islet Mystery 29

    Watching from the deck as the vessel pulled closer to the first island they were going to explore, the splendid beauty of the greeneries and the sprawling pristine sand warmed everyone''s eyes. The sun stood high above the sailing, white clouds, sending its blinding light across the water-enclosed paradise. It''s rays reached every grain of sand, making it gleam like sparkling ivory against a glaring light.


    They all stepped down from the yacht with Jullien and Ryan leading the way. Scattered rows of mangroves soon spread out, and on the vast stretch of sands, footprints of different sizes of birds marked the whole area. Several species of fowls took refuge under the harmless foliage as the heat of the sun started to dry even the glossy surfaces of its rained-watered, green leaves.


    Even without touching them, these beautiful creatures would suddenly burst out from its resting place to fly and escape, leaving them a spectacular view of colorful flock racing their ways into the sky. They all gasped in awe, but Chloe''s squeals dominated, followed by the adult''s laughter, rejoicing in the child''s pure happiness.


    Soon after they trudged a few miles of knee-high, seawater- covered outstretch of sand, they reached an area surrounded by gigantic trees. In the middle was a cold spring in the shape of a pan. Big boulders under the broad canopy of the surrounding trees lined the entire area, providing the tourists a comfortable place to spread out their picnic mats and tables.


    Everyone, except Shiela and Allie, couldn''t wait to jump into the water, to relieve themselves from the scorching heat of the sun. They remained sitting on the mattress for a while, watching the rest of them enjoying the bliss of a refreshing nature''s treat.


    "Shie, I see those hurt in your eyes," Allie suddenly spoke into Shiela''s ears, causing the latter''s abrupt turn, which almost hit her head. She drew back for a moment in a reflex and then burst out laughing as their startled reactions replayed in her mind. Shiela laughed as well, realizing her always absentmindedness.


    "Going back to your topic, yes, I am," Shiela started to confess. "I don''t even think I can afford to stay in the country the moment the news starts selling out."


    Allie knew it was about the wedding, and even Ryan himself confessed it to her and Ajie.


    "After our vacation here, I''ll consider moving out," Shiela continued, and Allie started to worry. One of the topics they discussed was Ryan''s plan to let Shiela handle his businesses in the UAE.


    "Shie, how about managing our business in the UAE?"


    Shiela chuckled and despised the idea, but she refused politely, "I''m sorry, Lyz, but how can I move on? Ryan will also be there once in a while."


    "I want to be somewhere else. Anyway, I can still run the business anywhere I am."


    Allie sighed, but how could she persuade her when she, of all people, understood her better? Her thoughts started to raise suggestions on either how she would carry on her task or how she would break it to Ryan. Before she was able to decide, a voice coming from the opposite direction echoed in the atmosphere. They seemed to come up from a slope leading upward to the spring. They were all in swimwear, and judging by their looks, they must have been swimming since their hair was still dripping into their necklines and temples.


    "Allyza!"


    Allie''s eyes got wide when someone called out her name. To her surprise, it was Andrew. Following behind him was Joanna and her team.  Allie sprang up to her feet to meet them, hugging and kissing everyone.


    "Joanna, Adrian, it''s good to see you here!" Allie exclaimed happily, her loud and excited tone caught the ears of the rest who were dipping in the spring.


    "We are on a break, and we choose island escapade," Joanna explained as soon as they released each other from a tight hug.


    "That''s wonderful. It''s such a coincidence that we also choose it here." As Allie replied, her eyes fell on Andrew, who seemed to be doing well.


    "Andrew, it''s good to see you happy like you are now," Allie tapped his shoulders, her eyes couldn''t believe how love and acceptance changed him. She couldn''t also fathom her sense of admiration towards Joanna for her patience in dealing with such a difficult person like Andrew.


    The three elderlies who decided to welcome the group as a respect to the fact that Andrew was the lost son of Ajie''s foster parents, waded out of the water to greet them. So did Ryan, Jullien, and Andy.


    "Jullien, Andy, I would like to introduce my friends to both of you. First, this is Andrew, Ajie''s brother," Allie then paused as she turned to Andrew, catching his startled but pleased expression,  then back to the two. "This is also Joanna, Andrew''s girlfriend. "


    Allie then looked around to find Shiela, and when Shiela met her eyes, she proceeded. "This is  Shiela here, another family member, and friend," Allie paused again to smile at her, moving afterward to look for her next subjects for introduction, "and the rest are the members of their singing band."


    Catching her breath as Allie proceeded to introduce the names of the musicians, she passed the responsibility to Ryan, who laughed in seeing her flaring nostrils.


    "Andrew, Joanna, and our dear musicians, I would be honored to introduce to you my best friend, Andy, and the beautiful lady here who will soon become my wife in a month. Her name is Jullien."


    Shiela felt she almost died with the introduction alone that she hurried to look away. Yet, she realized she was too late because Andy had already thrown a concerned gaze at her. Deciding to carry on a fake facade, she smiled and ran her eyes to the musicians. Without much thought, as it was only an act of pretension, her eyes fell on the male lead guitarist. The man looked back, and In a snap of a second, both their eyes grew wide, followed by their squeals as they ran towards each other.


    "Richard!" Shiela exclaimed, tears glistening in her eyes as they fell into a warm embrace.


    "Damn it, Shiela! I could have died in overthinking about you. You don''t know how much I missed you.!"


    Shiela threw herself into Richard''s arms again as soon as she saw him flushing. She knew he was holding back his tears of joy in seeing her again. To save herself from her welling emotion due to how Ryan introduced Jullien, she sobbed hard into his chest, pouring out her load of humiliation and pain. Richard, in his innocence, rubbed her back emotionally and coaxed her like a child, missing the dangerous looks thrown in his direction.

 Chapter 214 - The Islet Mystery 30

    "Take it easy, dear. Cry it all out. Whatever it is in the past, I''m glad that seeing Richard again makes you ventilate it out."


    Shiela lifted her head and smiled at Mrs. Lopez for her comforting words. It felt good to know someone who understood what she was going through. Mrs. Lopez was right; crying always did wonders to relieve whatever turmoil she kept inside.


    "Thank you, auntie," Shiela said as she looked up, trying to focus her gaze to Mrs. Lopez only.


    "There''s that smile again. I''m excited to hear about this story between you and Richard," Cherry cheered on, stealing glances at Ryan whose sharp gaze seemed to emit fire and lava from an erupting Taal Volcano.


    Jane chuckled in watching the drama unfolding, and she stepped on to join. She''s also a woman who knew the feeling very well.


    "Richard, how about getting some food first for the two of you then bring her somewhere you can talk about it all again. How I wish you bring your guitar along with you. Music can do magic in lifting one''s mood."


    Richard laughed. "Shiela sings very well. We often hang out before. Me with my guitar while she does the singing."


    "How about becoming our guest in one of our singing engagement, Shie," Andrew butted in, talking to her like they knew each other already for a long time.


    "I''ll think about it," Shiela answered, and a round of cheers and applause erupted from all of them except Ryan.


    "How about a duet, Shie?" Ajie joined in; the topic had his desire to sing awakened.


    "Wow, I love that. It''s such an honor to sing with you," Shiela said, her eyes sparkling with excitement.


    "We''ll talk about it later. Now, let''s eat first," Ryan stepped in, ending the discussion indirectly.


    Richard did as he was told, and he indeed took food for Shiela and him. He then excused themselves and led Shiela to another boulder. Placing the food in the middle, they sat down across each other with their legs crossed.


    "How are you, Shie?"


    "Here, I''m fine. I just recalled the pain the moment I saw you. You used to be my crying shoulder."


    "But you kept many things from me. I knew you had a deeper reason why you were dying to get a job in Japan."


    Shiela smiled. How could she tell him the truth about her pregnancy when she knew she would only break his heart? Richard was only a friend, and he would remain in her heart as a friend forever. If only a heart can be taught who to love, she would always choose Richard. She could love him without having someone to fear. She didn''t have to hide, no need to endure rejection.


    Looking now at him as a grown-up man, her thoughts went back to the day she broke his heart. They were on the bench at their front lawn, one moonlit night. The golden lamp was floating in the grey sky, and puffs of white clouds sailed along. The night was silent except for the drumming of the cicadas and crickets somewhere in the lush fields surrounding Shiela''s house in the province.


    "Shie, listen to this..." Richard said, trying to get her attention. Her thoughts were somewhere else as she placed her head on top of her knees, listening to Richard as he strummed on his guitar.


    Jolted back to reality as his voice burrowed into her eardrums, she nodded and fixed her gaze at him as his fingers positioned to the first set of chords he was strumming. A beautiful intro of a love song floated before Richard lifted his magical voice into the air. Her heart soared as she listened to its every word, grasping the full meaning of the love the song conveyed.


    Ryan''s handsome face floated into her mind, and she began to feel the beautiful beatings of her heart every time she thought about him. His image was still so vivid as he looked into her eyes before lifting her chin and drowning themselves into a passionate kiss.


    "I never forget how you brought the sun to shine in my life


    And took all the worries and fears that I had


    I guess what I''m really trying to say


    It''s not every day that someone like you comes my way


    No words can express how much I love you."


    As Richard projected the highest note in a rounded, beautiful, and soothing voice, her heart danced as her thoughts flashed back to the scene where she gave her whole self to him. He was there inside her, taking themselves to the heights of pain and pleasure, sealing his ownership of her heart, body, and soul.


    "Shiela, I have long wanted to tell you this," Richard started to speak, gathering every nerve of his system to support him. His song had long ended, but Shiela''s emotion was still soaring to the thousand clouds in her reverie.


    "What?" she asked, not expecting the wind of change.


    "I hope you have seen me through it all, through everything I do for you."


    "What?" Shiela asked again, but her eyes were far away and her heart was still wrapped up with the glorious feeling of her sweet surrender to the man she loved.


    "I love you...all my life."


    Shiela''s eyes flew wide, and her expression was a massive shock. She never expected this. Richard was a perfect friend, committing his whole self and time in the name of their friendship. She didn''t move for a long while, pinned to her worries of how to break the truth to him gently. No matter how good Richard was, in her heart, he was only a mere friend.


    "Ryan, I mean...Ch-Chard," Shiela stuttered, and in her very eyes, she saw the hurt reflecting in his eyes.


    "I am already expecting it, Shie. But I am such a fool to believe that you can give us a chance. You and Ryan live in two different worlds. The reality will only hurt you in the end..."


    "I''m sorry, Chard..." were the only words Shiela could afford. She knew there was sense in what he said. But love is blind that lovers cannot see...and for the moment, it''s what she could only care about.


    "Shiela..." a squeeze in her hand, and his soft voice permeated into her ears, and it snapped her back into her senses.


    "I''m sorry..." Shiela laughed as she realized she was lost in her thoughts again.


    "You still don''t change. You are still a daydreamer," Richard commented, his eyes were still as gentle as how he looked at her before.


    "Yes, it''s something I hate about myself," she replied, breaking into a soft laughter again.


    "And am I right, Shiela?"


    "About what?"


    "That he''ll be only hurting you."


    Before Shiela could even react, a voice interrupted from behind. "Who is hurting who?"

 Chapter 215 - The Islet Mystery 31

    Ryan and Shiela looked up and saw Ryan approaching them. He was wearing a smile which Shiela found doubtful. In his hands were bottles of beverages.


    "Dear, here''s your water and juice," Ryan said as he placed a hand on her shoulder, his eyes burning on the hand of Richard on top of hers. Shiela got so agitated of his presence that she was no longer aware that until this moment, Richard was still holding her hand.


    As to what kind of luck Shiela had at the moment, Richard seemed to remember something, and he pulled out his hand unconsciously. He extended the same hand at him to which Ryan responded with a raised brow.


    "Oh, you seemed to forget so easily. What I mean is that I want to congratulate you for finally deciding to settle down," Richard paused as he looked sideways to look at Shiela. "Had I known earlier..."


    Richard paused again but did not continue afterward. Shiela might not like it, and she might hate him. But what if he indeed knew earlier that he was marrying someone else in the end, just as he expected?


    Ryan chuckled and threw gentle slaps on his shoulder. "Chard, some things in life are not an open book for everyone to read."


    It was Richard''s turn to raise his brow. What did he mean?


    Richard was about to persist on the matter, but Ryan''s impatient look stopped him. His stomach churned in contempt when he saw Ryan''s concerned look and tender eyes as he gazed at Shiela. Why did he have to give her false hope? Why did he have to drag her up to the heights of glory, only to smash her down? How could he be so cruel?


    The roaring sound of a helicopter which seemed to have based its flight from a nearby island, made them all gaze up to the sky. It circled its path high above them a couple of times in slow motion before it moved suspiciously away. As all of them looked at each other in a questioning gaze, Ryan moved away from where he last stood and walked forward to where the rest had gathered for their meal. Jullien met him and like an automated buckle, her arm wrapped around Ryan''s waist. Their eyes locked in a quick, meaningful stare before both of them break into a smile and gave their attention back to the rest of them.


    "That must be a troop for a search operation," Ryan said, his broad smile eased everyone''s tension away. It looked like they were the focus of the search if Ryan''s guess was correct.


    "We are not far from the Pacific ocean, and many of those illegal transactions are done here for an easier exit. We are also close to several islands, which ''some people'' take refuge."


    "Does that mean that we are in a dangerous place?'' Cherry confirmed, her hands were visibly shaking.


    Ryan broke out in laughter as his hand reached out to pat Cherry''s back. "Of course, not. These people are interested in something else and not with the innocent civilians like us. Don''t worry. I have my men around."


    Cherry heaved out a deep sigh, and with a scared look, she confirmed, "Are you sure?"


    "Yes, dear. Before we go to another island to go canoeing, Ryan would have his men scan around the place through his private chopper," Jullien answered in Ryan''s behalf, and after she did, she glanced up to him, and in return, Ryan nodded and squeezed her shoulder. It was such a romantic gesture that had Shiela''s heart pricked. Even if she was several feet away, she could still see and hear them well.


    A few more talk from Ryan and Jullien settled their fears away, and they decided to proceed to the next place. They descended to the narrow slope Andrew''s group passed through in coming up. To everyone''s surprise, several powered boats were already waiting at the shoreline.


    "We are going to another island through these boats for a more memorable experience. The yacht will lead us there. The trip is only around thirty minutes. Once we get there, we may do whatever we like ¡ª either its swimming, spelunking, or snorkeling. There are beautiful lagoons, enchanting caves, and a jellyfish sanctuary to make your day. Just don''t go far from the rest and always go by group."


    "As you have noticed," Ryan continued, "we don''t have boatmen. These boats are remote-controlled, and the control is in the yacht. Should anything happen, there are paddles provided, but as much as possible, you are not going to use it. We are all within the eyes of a safety monitoring team." With this, Ryan looked up to the deck of the ship, and everyone followed his eyes. Men in uniform emerged from inside and began waving at them.


    Jane and Cherry squealed in excitement. Ryan also invited Andrew and his group so their adventure would be more fun.


    They climbed into their boats by two''s or three''s, so Allie, Ajie, and Chloe were in one boat, the three elderlies next.  Jane, Cherry, and Shiela would have been in another boat, but Richard suggested to let her go with him, so Shiela eagerly did so. She had a plan brewing in her mind, and she didn''t care if Ryan and Jullien were alone with each other on another boat.


    As other boats started to move across the sprawling water world, Ryan hopped down from his boat and waded into Allie and Ajie''s direction.


    "Allie, how is it? Is Shiela accepting your proposal to manage UAE''s branch?"


    Allie shook her head sadly. "She has other plans, Ry."


    Ryan''s face looked grim the next second. "That''s the best thing I can do for her, but I can''t blame her, though. Nevertheless, transfer all my share into her name, and I''ll have Atty. Manloza take care of the rest of my businesses. Please see to it that all of it are in her name before the wedding."


    Allie smiled sadly at him. She could see right through him at this moment and knew he was breaking. Pain and despair reflected in his eyes as he opened his heart to them.


    "It looks like I could not get away from this wedding."

 Chapter 216 - The Islet Mystery 32

    They all sailed off to another beautiful island, which led to the inviting emerald-green lagoons. The rows of verdant hills on either side, the blue-and-white clouds, and the kaleidoscopic world beneath the sea level stood as flawless ensembles of nature''s world of art. With the white yacht moving in her full grace ahead of them, they trailed along in a row through their canoes, leaving white foams tailing behind them.


    The yacht pulled over the side of an island a few minutes later, at the entrance to a lagoon. Everyone received the instruction that the control would be turned off so that they could go around paddling by themselves. They could stop anywhere to do snorkeling or go inside the caves as long as they go by groups.


    As promised, they all had their wonderful moments together until the sun hid behind the hills. Ryan then called them in to gather for a meal inside the yacht. A long, buffet table filled with different kinds of sumptuous food spread out before them. Their stomach and their salivary glands reacted fast, especially that their energies were all drained by their strenuous but enjoyable treks. Through the glass windows, they could see the sun slowly disappearing behind the horizon until the darkness crept in.


    For the whole period they were on this island, Shiela forgot about her heartaches. She was enjoying the company of the entire group, as well as Richard''s sense of humor. Though she sometimes saw Jullien''s flirting gestures toward Ryan, somehow, she got numbed to it. Ryan also kept his distance and allowed her to enjoy her day with Richard''s assistance.


    Shiela slumped down on the couch near the window while waiting for others to clear themselves away from the table. She watched the surroundings as it turned from golden yellow to crimson then to complete darkness. The serenity of the place somehow gave her mind a sense of peace and rest.


    A tap on her shoulder disrupted her communion with nature, and when she turned to look over her shoulder, Ryan''s face met her eyes. Her heart skipped a beat, and for a moment she was too lost to think of even a single word to say.


    "I have your food on the table," Ryan broke the awkward silence, turning his head afterward to show her the location.


    "Thank you, but should not have bothered."


    "I must because I care," he whispered, bending down to speak in her ear. Shiela stared and did not move until Ryan turned away. She bit her lower lip, screaming inwardly. How could this man always succeed in turning her heartbeats into a mess?


    Richard came back with his tray of food, calling her out to join him on his table. "Got your food over here, Shie."


    Shiela couldn''t help but feel anxious as she moved her eyes sideways, wanting to see how Ryan reacted to this. To her surprise, he gave her a nod, indicating to accept Richard''s invitation. However, he pointed a finger over to where he placed the food for her. She hesitated, but somehow, Ryan''s order had a greater weight in her heart.


    "Chard, I already have food on that table," Shiela announced as she approached him. Richard frowned, but he quickly changed his expression, concealing his disgust. Nevertheless, he followed her to the table and sat across her.


    "He still cares, Shie. I can see it in his eyes," Ryan commented as he plunged the tip of his fork over to a piece of meat.


    "I know."


    "What''s your plan? Do you want to stick around until he leaves you for his first night with Jullien?"


    Needless to ask, Richard seemed to have absorbed the whole picture of their situation. Anybody did, only that she remained to act blind and dumb.


    "Chard, take me with you..." Shiela started to talk about her plans, but she saw Ryan in her peripheral vision coming towards them.


    She sealed her lips while Richard got occupied in slicing a piece of beef. "Sure, Shie. I''ll book you a ticket..."


    "Ticket for what?" Ryan picked up his statement even before Richard could finish. Shiela placed down his spoon and fork when the tension started to rise in her chest.


    To her horror, Ryan picked it up and used it for himself as he stuffed a spoonful of food into his mouth.


    "Ryan, it''s mine," Shiela said as she tried to grab it back," I''ll get you another set."


    Ryan shrugged his shoulders off, placed her hands back into her lap, and said, "what''s the difference between using this set and us, kissing, Shie?"


    Shiela froze, her blood rising towards her ears. She cast a glance at Richard, who remained looking down at his plate. Ryan, on the other hand, continued eating nonchalantly.


    "How''s your day, dear? I keep your things in our room should you want to change. There''s also a set of unscented and hypoallergenic creams for your muscle pain."


    Richard couldn''t take it anymore. He slammed a fist on the table and cast a dangerous glare at Ryan.


    "Until when are you going to abuse her? Just hours ago, you declared your engagement with Jullien. You''re not even some miles away, and here you are, betraying your fiancee in broad daylight."


    The rest stood up and stared in their direction, but no one dared to ask what''s happening. Ryan glanced up and smiled, easing the tension away. "It''s nothing. Richard accidentally swiped off his plate away."


    Though no one was convinced, they resumed eating anyway and tried to ignore them. Ryan was the host, and surely, he was in control of his guest.


    When the peace of the surrounding returned, Richard dared to look at Ryan in the eyes. "Ryan, be a man enough. If you are only hurting Shiela, give her to me. You''re getting married soon anyway."


    "Richard, there are things you don''t understand yet. But I want you to put this into your mind. She is always mine from the very start, now and forever."

 Chapter 217 - The Islet Mystery 33

    Shiela got afraid that their confrontation would turn offensive so she tried to think of a way to separate them, only to realize soon that her idea seemed to worsen the situation.


    "Neil, I need to change. I feel cold already."


    Ryan broke off his glare at Richard unwillingly when Shiela''s voice cracked. He reached into his pocket and handed her the keys. "Go ahead and warm yourself."


    "Go with me," Shiela begged. How could she leave these two who were both trying to restrain themselves?


    "Dear, I don''t want trouble. It would be a shame in front of my guest If Jullien makes a scene," Ryan gazed back at her with those equally begging eyes as hers.


    She ran her eyes to the two of them and Ryan understood what held her back. "I will just talk to Richard. I''m not going to do anything to him, I promise."


    Richard felt guilty as well, seeing her hands shaking already. "Go ahead, Shie. I''ll be good, I swear."


    Ryan started to rub her back to assure her and Shiela was afraid again that Jullien might see them. She stood up reluctantly and threw them both a glare. "If anyone of you will misbehave, I will jump overboard."


    Ryan found her threat amusing though he knew she was not joking. He laughed and gave her hand a squeeze before releasing her. Shiela''s fear that she might die of embarrassment if ever these rivals of her heart would end up fighting, outweighed her worries for them. Anyway, they were all adults and perhaps, they would kill each other just because of her.


    She went up to Ryan''s room and found, indeed, her things there and a lot more stuff that she may need. He took care of her most simple needs and even shared his room with her. But why was he afraid to be seen with her by Jullien? She already confessed that she loved Andy. And, perhaps their room sharing was not too discreet that Jullien wouldn''t have the chance to find it out. There were certain inconsistencies that she could never thoroughly explain.


    At times, Ryan was too loud about his affection for her even with Jullien''s presence but at times, he was too conscious that Jullien could hide him under her skirt. She then remembered Andy. She realized that all throughout their island adventure, he stayed inside the yacht. He only came out for their early dinner. Her time and attention shifted to Richard that she forgot about him.


    After changing into a set of leggings and shirt, she lay down on the bed for a nap. Only then she realized how exhausted she was. Just as sleep was about to drag her, the door opened and Ryan''s head popped in. She let out a weak smile at him then curled back to sleep.


    "Not yet, sweetheart."


    "Why?" her lazy tone brought a smile to Ryan''s lips.


    "I''d been holding back the whole day. How I wish I could drag you for myself only," Ryan''s voice became husky right away as he hovered over her.


    Shiela threw her arms around his neck right away, as with a single touch or word from him would easily tear up her defenses. Their lips wrapped up together in passionate kisses until all the barriers of their bodies came flying into the floor.


    "Though how much I want to, I cannot promise you anything yet. But always remember this, I want no one else in this life but you," Ryan said after he took them both into the heights of pleasure, where both their souls and body unite. "And always remember this, ''if there''s a will, there''s a way''."


    Shiela felt a lump on her throat that she took a slow, deep breath to hold back her urge to cry.


    "I love you, Shie, if only you know how much."


    Instead of replying, Shiela threw herself at him for a tight embrace, relaying her full affection in that hug. Ryan held her for a moment before he picked up another clothes and helped her with it.


    "Wear this one. It''s going to be very cold later on. The material inside has an insulation property," Ryan said as he put on a black windbreaker over her.


    Just then, a ring on Ryan''s phone made him go out of the room. The room was not locked as Ryan seemed to be hurrying. Shiela could hear his voice but she could not figure out what he was saying. All of a sudden, her curiosity set in and she walked towards the side of the door to listen. Luckily, the door to the bathroom stood next to it. She looked around and suddenly, she got an idea and then she tiptoed towards the bathroom so as not to catch Ryan''s attention. The exhaust fan was placed above the toilet bowl so she climbed in it and to her relief, she saw him through the holes of that tiny window.


    "Dad, as I said leave it to me. I have my own, discreet way..."


    "Dad, I don''t need a backup. Joey is enough. Not one of them is thinking that I can do them harm."


    "No dad, everything is a pretension. I swear, I will marry no one else but Jullien. And I agree with the change of the wedding date, What is there to wait for so long?"


    "I get them all to believe everything is real. Their fate is all at the tip of my fingers. All we have to wait is tomorrow."


    Shiela''s heartbeat began to pound louder than her own breathing. Even if she was only listening to Ryan''s side, it was not difficult to understand their whole subject. Her heart started to ache. Ryan was too real just a few minutes ago.


    She could never believe her ears. Ryan was only wearing a cloak of pretense after all? And that he was going to fire out his revenge towards them the following day? She must warn Allie. No, she must warn them all. She had to hurry up!


    Allie, Hayri and Mr. Dioko were their primary target but since they were all bound to them in many ways, Ryan''s family was not going to spare them. Their people should be their enemies'' people, and their enemies'' revenge should be tasted by all of them.

 Chapter 218 - The Islet Mystery 34

    Shiela returned to the bed and tried to shut up her mind for a moment. She must have a clear mind later to plan things out. After a while, the side of the bed dipped, and she knew that Ryan was back. He was silent for a long while, his fingers brushing her hair.


    "Don''t you want to see them off?" Ryan finally broke his silence as he lifted up her chin.


    "Who?" she asked, her voice let out a sleepy tone.


    "Richard and his team."


    Shiela sat up abruptly and scrambled to her feet, throwing the bed cover off. Ryan held her hand as her feet searched for the pair of slippers on the floor.


    "Your phone. You might want to take pictures with them, "Ryan reminded her, and she was moved. It was so thoughtful of him. Too bad that she couldn''t bask on this thoughtfulness forever. Soon, Jullien would claim her rights to his full attention as his wife, and the thought made her heart sink.


    "It''s cold. I think you should wear socks." Ryan went over to a drawer without waiting for her to make a move, and to her surprise, pulled out a pair of socks. The more she felt moved. Ryan took care of her needs, even with small a matter such as socks.


    Before he opened the door as they were about to go out, Ryan pulled Shiela closer to himself and hugged her tight without saying a word. She also hugged him back and leaned her head on his chest until Ryan held her at arms length and bent down his head for a kiss.


    "Go out first," Ryan said after a while, and she nodded.


    It was not too difficult for her to understand what Ryan was trying to avoid. Even if Jullien did not love him, she wouldn''t be happy to think that her coming husband was also in love with someone else. Her coming over here was for a fair deal that both of them must learn to accept their fate. They were forced and destined to be for each other, so they might as well resign to that fact to accept each other and put anyone out of their ways.


    "Shie, we''re going now. It''s getting late," Richard said as he came forward to meet her. Shiela looked around, and there was the whole family, saying goodbye to everyone.


    While everyone''s attention was on seeing Andrew''s group off, Shiela pulled Richard to a corner.


    "Chard, please take me with you. I can''t stand the pain anymore. I need to be away from Jullien." Shiela''s drawn-out expression, which reflected her inward pain, as well as the gloom beneath her pleading eyes, made Richard give away.


    "I''ll find some ways. I will divert Ryan''s attention, and once you''ll find the chance, sneak into the boat," Richard said as his eyes roamed around, making it sure that no one was listening.


    Shiela nodded and left Richard right away to avoid suspicion. She glanced at Allie, who was so caught up in a conversation with Joanna. To her relief, Allie glanced up and their eyes locked for a moment. Either Shiela''s expression was too transparent, or that Allie was just too brilliant to be able to read one''s inner thoughts easily, Allie excused herself from Joanna and walked towards her.


    "Shie, is there something bothering you?" Allie asked; the warm smile she wore affirmed Shiela''s decision that she was right after all in deciding to give her some essential tips. Shiela pulled Allie into a corner where they could watch the view outside.


    "Lyz, I''m sorry I have decided to go ahead. I think I do not have to explain it all."


    Allie smiled and stared softly at Shiela, her expression telling Shiela that she understood. "Ryan loves you, Shie. You just have to trust him."


    "I know, but I don''t belong to his world," Shiela replied with glistening eyes, filled with unshed tears.


    "What is your plan?"


    Shiela did not reply, but she smiled and looked into her eyes and held her gaze for a while. Then she turned her heads toward the sea outside, urging Allie to look over.


    "Lyz, do you see that distinct marks on the sea?"


    Allie squinted and felt confused for a while. She looked towards the sea then back to Shiela. She was still confused.


    "During the daytime, you will see the distinctive marks on the sea. It looks like a map spreading out in a lighter shade of green. During the nighttime, like tonight, the seafloor beneath it glitters into a kaleidoscope of red, blue, and silver hues."


    "What''s in it?" Allie asked, her eyes narrowed on Shiela.


    "That''s your place of refuge. Those are the Chara channels. You won''t sink. The weeds underneath, especially the flowers, heal whatever illness you may have."


    Allie remained staring at her, and because she did not say a word, Shiela continued. "Lyz, I trust you. This information could be my death."


    "Dear," Ajie''s voice jolted them, and they both turned towards him.


    "The group is already inside the boat. Joanna asks if you could come over for a while. She has something to give to you, I think."


    "Sure, I''ll come down."


    The three went out of the yacht and went over to the rows of the boat that will take all of them to the island they were staying. Not far away from there, there was a developed island that had different resorts and hotels for commercial tours and adventures.


    "Allie, Ajie, hop in," Joanna hollered excitedly, making Ajie and Allie climb into the boat in haste.


    "Look over there! Do you see the colorful glow in the sea bed?" Joanna stretched out her arm and pointed out those areas, which made Allie recall what Shiela had just told her. The pleasant, blazing blend of colors underneath the sea attracted her and Ajie that the boatman paddled out farther into the areas which glowed brighter.


    Shiela stood at the side, watching them while her eyes were on Richard, waiting for the chance to get her in. Soon, she heard footsteps, and even without turning to look who was that, Shiela knew it was him.


    "Sir, I wonder if you have kept some medicine for stomach pain," the drummer approached Ryan out of the blue, as soon as he stopped by Shiela''s side. He crouched and pushed his upper abdomen with his hand, his entire face creasing due to pain. Ryan furrowed his brows and turned right away towards the yacht.


    "I''ll get it. Wait for me," Ryan hollered over his shoulder, and the drummer answered him with a groan.


    As soon as Ryan disappeared, Shiela finally got the chance. She hopped into the boat, and the boatman paddled away in a hidden corner before its engine roared to life.

 Chapter 219 - The Islet Mystery 35

    Shiela saw that the drummer followed Ryan into the yacht. She felt her heart was in her throat when the boatman paddled hard to the dark side until they were far away to have the engine took over the boatman''s strength. Only then was she able to breathe. She knew she would still be meeting Ryan in the future, but at least, Jullien wouldn''t be there. This month would most likely take all his time away for his wedding preparation.


    Gazing into the dark night illuminated only with the boatman''s lamp, she realized they were separated from the rest of the group. If Ryan had plans to chase her, he could always do it. Their destination was not too far from his place. He had powered fast crafts inside the yacht.


    To her surprise, the boatman propelled their boat toward a dark island. Had Richard not accepted to help her with the escape, she would have been scared to death. None of them dared to speak during the trip and neither complained even if they seemed to head into the place of their impending doom.


    She could no longer understand herself, neither sort out her conflicting emotions. She got frightened to see the looming darkness, but she felt a sense of freedom. Even if the engine''s roaring sound was almost deafening as it blended with the hisses of the whistling wind, there was a hollowed silence inside her heart. The pain was too much to bear, making her want to entrust herself to eternal rest and peace.


    "Hurry up, ma''am, sir!" the boatman broke into her train of thoughts.


    Shiela and Richard looked around, and they saw nothing except the pitch-dark surroundings. Shiela looked up at Richard, wondering what his plan was and why were they here. She was the one asking his favor, how could she complain?


    Richard and the boatman then jumped into the knee-deep water, and once Richard"s feet steadied into the sand, he turned his back on her and crouched.


    "Shie, hop on to my back!"


    Shiela''s eyes widened, and she did not move. They were friends, but they never go beyond a friendly hug.


    "Ma''am, please hurry up," the boatman said, and his voice sounded like he was growing impatient and scared.


    "Shie, you might not want to get wet. You still have a long way to go."


    Shiela remembered that Ryan made her change into rubber shoes and socks. Richard''s opinion now made sense so she hopped into his back and Ryan strode right away into the shore. The boatman led the way, and so they followed, winding themselves across the dark path.


    Soon, the boatman stopped before a massive object and Shiela had to blink tight many times to realize they were in front of a chopper.


    "Go up, fast. He must be waiting already," the boatman spoke again and for Shiela, it seemed that this man held too many mysteries.


    He? Who was he referring to? She wanted to ask but Richard was too unusually quiet that she swallowed back the many questions she had wanted to ask.


    Richard held her hand as he stepped into the ladder first, glancing back at the boatman who urged them both to climb fast. Her heart started to hammer into her ears as everything took a complete three-hundred-sixty-degree turn. Her plan was simple; she just wanted to go with Richard to escape from Ryan and Jullien''s presence. Then, she would ask him to take her into the port and from there, she would go home by herself.


    "Richard, thank you," a familiar voice from the pilot''s seat jolted her against the seat that Richard helped her in buckling her seat. She was screaming inside to know what''s going on but didn''t have the heart to do so. She asked for this so she must submit herself, trusting that Richard would never harm her.


    "As long as you are true to her," Richard grumbled and Shiela now understood what caused his silence.


    "We must go now. I''ll keep in touch."


    Richard turned to face her and he stood silent for a while. Even if she couldn''t see him, at the back of her mind, she could figure out the worries and pain in his eyes. Shiela reached out to squeeze his hand and with the touch, she hoped she could pass her gratitude to him for his selflessness and unconditional love.


    "You''re okay there, baby?"


    Shiela replied, leaving no gap at the end of his statement. "What does this mean?"


    "I left you once and I would not let it happen again."


    "Neil, I can''t understand you at all. How about your wedding?"


    "We''ll talk later. We must leave now. Hold on."


    The engine then roared to life and lights whirled around. Soon, the craft slowly lifted off the ground until what she could see below were flickering lights from the sprawling bodies of land and water. Having no way to talk to anybody, she closed her eyes and her exhaustion from the day''s activity, made her drift into a deep sleep. By the time she opened her eyes, Ryan was already helping her in unbuckling her seatbelt.


    A car picked them up the moment they descended from the chopper and soon, they were entering her apartment. To her surprise, Ryan was dragging along a suitcase then she recalled that during her stay at the island, she had barely touched her things since Ryan prepared everything she needed.


    "Pick up your most important stuff and I''ll take you to the airport right after."


    "I''m not going anywhere!" she protested, unable to hold back her embarrassment for being dragged into this entire situation she didn''t understand at all. She was always easy to get along. It was never her habit to complain despite her inconvenience, but this was too much already.


    "I have booked you a flight to the UAE. It''s somewhere my father''s tentacles cannot reach you."


    Shiela just stood gazing at him, trying to process what he meant. Then Ryan added something that ripped her heart apart.


    "One of the conditions I set before agreeing to the wedding with Jullien is the promise that my father will set you free. He thinks that I am fully accepting their lies about our baby."


    "Shie, I still believe that he is still alive and that my father hides him somewhere. I should find him before the wedding. This is the only way I can be free from Jullien. Above all, your safety is my priority."


    Shiela then recalled Ryan''s odd behavior hours ago. The way he insisted on staying with Richard, the reason why he let her wear a set of jackets, socks and shoes and his intention to let her see the team off.

 Chapter 220 - The Islet Mystery 36

    Ryan arrived back to the yacht before daybreak. He entered through his private door as discreetly as he left. Everyone had already entered into their rooms the moment he slipped out of the yacht hours ago. He planned everything, including alternatives, even if Richard did not consent to the plan. His dad had eyes and ears in the surroundings, disguising themselves as tourists or work applicants, but they disappeared during nighttime for fear of being caught. Also because, in this secluded place, no one would do their activities during night time because of the dangers lurking all around.


    However, the flying of his chopper last night would not alert his father''s men since he made it a habit to scan the whole place at random times at night using the aircraft to look for possible intruders. They invested much for the care of the Chara channels, and they couldn''t allow any intruders to destroy the fruit of their labor.


    While laying himself down on his bed, his thoughts were on Shiela. She must still be in the air at this moment. She may be far away by now, but at least, it would only be temporary. What''s more important was her safety and his undivided attention in settling his issues against his father. He drifted into sleep with his thoughts still on her until a frantic knocking on his door woke him up a few hours after.


    "Ryan! Ryan!"


    Ryan sprang up to his feet when the banging of his door got louder. He opened the door and saw the frightened face of Mr. Lopez, followed by his hysterical wife and the two ladies trailing behind him.


    "What''s happening?" he asked, his eyes still felt sandy due to lack of sleep.


    "Allie and Ajie disappeared!"


    "What do you mean?"


    "Last night, while the two were still talking to Andrew and his team, we excused ourselves and went to bed ahead of them. Only to realize this morning that they have not returned."


    Ryan smiled, and his calm demeanor settled their hearts a little. "Don''t worry, uncle, auntie. Perhaps, Andrew invited them to the hotel they were staying in. I''ll call them right now.."


    Mr. Lopez shook his head in protest. "I have already done that, but their numbers were out of reach."


    Ryan tried to call them himself, but both their numbers were indeed out of service. He talked to Andrew through the hotel''s receptionist, but the latter confirmed that the two didn''t go with them. Andrew swore that the last thing he remembered was that the couple stayed by the shore until they all disappeared from their sight.


    "I''ll have my men look for them," Ryan tried to comfort them but Mrs. Lopez was already wailing. Cherry and Jane didn''t say a word but they couldn''t stay put in place, peeping at all the windows now and then.


    "I''ll go with your men!" Mr. Dioko suddenly butted in after being quiet the whole time. His grimaced face and his faraway looks bothered Jane that she quickly intervened.


    "No, uncle. Just stay here. You might not be feeling well out there."


    "Jane, they are my children we are talking about, and I cannot possibly stay here waiting. I''ll also have my men come over," Mr. Dioko''s tried to project a soft voice, but its hoarseness still betrayed what he was truly feeling inside.


    "Uncle, they are both our family, too, but we have to entrust them to the most capable people to do the search."


    Mr. Lopez moved his eyes fast from his wife to each of them as he listened to their conversation. He wanted so badly to butt in and volunteer to go as well, but his wife''s panicked status held him back.


    "We will go together," Mrs. Lopez cried out, startling all of them, including Ryan. "We enjoyed here together, so we must also die here together."


    Seeing her broke into a bitter cry again, Jane and Cherry were no longer able to hold back their anxiety. They also cried with her, and Ryan stood pinned on the corner where he stood, his heart melting over the affection they displayed. He had not seen these worries and thoughtfulness in his family. They didn''t even care for his feelings, of what he wanted for himself, of his own preferences. Their will must be done, regardless of his opinion. Hearing their stories a few days ago, and watching them now, these people didn''t deserve his father''s revenge through him.


    ___________


    Shiela was still an hour earlier before her departure. Her head was already aching with so much thinking. She had been independent all her life, but going to a place beyond her plans made her weary. Her heartaches and the strain of her stress lately took a toll on her that all she wanted at the moment was an emotional release. She remembered her father, and so she looked for a corner where she could have complete privacy.


    "Have you decided to confess already?" was his father''s first statement as soon as he answered the phone. "I''m your father, Shiela, but I am so humiliated that you don''t see me as a person you can trust and share your burden with."


    The pain and humiliation in his voice bored into her heart, searing it like a double-edged knife that she cried hard in regret. "Pa, I didn''t mean it that way. I was just too ashamed."


    "Then tell me now."


    Shiela realized that of all the people in this world, there was only one person who would not betray her. He was scared to death when she got sick, and his constant travels that started after she got discharged were most likely the payment of her hospital bill and recovery expenses.


    "Alright, Pa, I''m now going to tell you the truth. His name is Ryan Neil Yu, a classmate in college. I know it would be hard to believe, but Ryan is not the bad person here. It is his parents..."


    An hour was not too long, but it was enough to lift a heavy load inside her heart. At long last, she could breathe freely now, no longer feeling guilty of hiding a critical truth anymore. She made it sure that if ever Ryan''s path and her father would come across, he wouldn''t hate him.

 Chapter 221 - The Islet Mystery 37

    Amazed by the wonders of the glowing Chara blooms at night, which sparkled like Christmas lights underneath the water, Allie wanted to go further into the broader expanse of Chara channels. Yet, Andrew and Joanna had to bid goodbye already since their drummer complained of stomach pain. The had to bring him right then to the company doctor who worked for the hotel for the graveyard shift.


    As they were standing by the shore, a man approached them and offered them a speedboat. Being not new to powered boats as they were builders and designers themselves of yachts and ships, they did not have to think twice. If they were very capable of running bigger vessels, how much more capable were they for the smaller ones? They knew every detail of a vessel''s mechanism and felt they did not need any assistance.


    The two hopped on right away and powered the vessel to life. They explored the entire Chara channels and wondered why they never heard it featured in any documentaries.


    "Jie, can you help me put the pieces together?" Allie asked as she leaned her back against Ajie and as the latter wrapped her in his arms. With the boat''s engine being turned off, the small craft swayed through the gentle rockings of the waves.


    "What is it?" Ajie replied as he lifted his head from the crook of Allie''s neck.


    "Shiela had warned us about the use of Myrtle Shade creamer. According to her, the creamer contained a powdered extract of Myrtle Shade, which is highly but gradually addictive. She even believed that Cherry''s mom''s addiction could be because of the Myrtle Shade, specifically the Cafe affogato flavor."


    Ajie sat up straight as he listened intently to Allie, still holding her close to him. She explained every detail she knew about the creamer and how the authorities failed to trace it.


    "What puzzles me is Ryan''s involvement in this. He revealed to us that his family owned the MS Sciences, Inc. and that they also owned the Myrtle Shade coffee shop business. Just a while ago, Shiela reminded me that Myrtle Shade comes from these Chara blooms, and the antidote for its adverse effect comes from its flowers."


    "Do you mean to say that Ryan may be involved in drug trafficking? And that he personally manages the production of Chara blooms?"


    "Yes, that''s what I want to point out."


    "Dear, since their company is about manufacturing drugs, perhaps Chara blooms is one of their sources. We can not tell if he is also involved in the manufacturing of its dangerous amounts and its spreading to the black market."


    "Jie, Shiela also mentioned that Ryan''s dad was one of the syndicate leaders who were arrested together with dad. My question is, is Ryan real? What if he is just disguising? What if he is coming for revenge against  dad?"


    Goosebumps spread across Ajie''s nape as this thought occurred to him. He recalled that Ryan just showed up without a prior connection to them and offered investment right away. He was sure that before coming to them, Ryan did some investigations about them. He probably studied ahead where he could cunningly link to them.


    He shuddered, thinking about his family on the yacht, especially Chloe. Just as he powered the engine on, their boat came flying like a bolt of lightning towards a dark area where they couldn''t see anything. A somewhat electrical force sucked them forward, and they immediately knew that what they feared right now was coming true.


    ______


    Joey came to the area as instructed. His order this time was to abduct the daughter of his master''s enemy at the specified time and date. He prepared the place as well as the methods he would be using in taking them as his captives. Fortunately, his plan worked out fine, and he did not make much effort to arrest them.


    After turning the control on to pull the boat over, he slowly dragged it inside the hidden cove while it was still low tide. By midnight, as the moon would rise high up in the sky, the gravitational pull would gather the water in high tide, and it would totally block the cove''s entrance.


    He knew that the impact of his pull, the pitch darkness of the surroundings, and their rising fear of what was happening, would shut down his victim''s memory. They would not remember where they entered, and they wouldn''t know where to go out.


    Once he maneuvered the boat to a full stop in front of his master''s beach house, he wore his bonnet and jacket, pulled out his pistol from its holster, then walked over towards his victims. The instruction was clear; he shouldn''t do them any harm yet until further orders.


    "Follow me," Joey''s loud voice jolted both Allie and Ajie to look up to him. They didn''t notice him right away as their eyes were still scanning all over the surroundings.


    "Where are we, and why do you do this to us?" Ajie dared to ask, as he alighted ahead of Allie out of the boat. He shoved her behind him, in case something would happen.


    "I am only following an order to bring you here and not to tell you who makes the order."


    Allie nudged Ajie gently on his side to tell him to stop asking. He might infuriate the man, and it might prompt him to harm them. In times such as this, they shouldn''t be using their mouths but their senses.


    To Allie''s relief, Ajie listened and kept his mouth sealed as they followed the man inside the house. To their surprise, he turned on the light, and the beautiful interior design of a living room greeted their eyes. It looked like the whole structure was newly renovated, and all the furniture in its right places were all elegant and in contemporary designs.


    "Who owns this beautiful property underneath the sea?" Ajie asked again at the man whose brown pupils were the only part he revealed to them.


    The man glared at them, perhaps angered by Ajie''s persistence. He already made it clear that they shouldn''t be asking questions, but Ajie seemed to forget it in a blink of an eye.


    "Even if you won''t tell us, we know that your master is Mr. Ryan Neil Yu. Isn''t he?"


    Joey squinted and stared back at them for a while and asked, "What did you say?"

 Chapter 222 - The Islet Mystery 38

    After some persuasion to leave the matter to him, Ryan brought his guests back to the house. He was familiar with the place more than themselves and that he was more capable of finding quicker means. He already had existing forces on standby who also knew the corners of this aqua paradise, like knowing their own backyard. They were supposed to explore several islands more for a few days, but the incident prompted him to place them all at his base. He could not tell them about Shiela''s escape, or else, it would arouse suspicion on their part and bring him further trouble.


    Ryan offered them tea from the concocted Chara flowers, afraid that the elderlies'' anxiety would trigger their hypertension or any heart ailments. Jane was also quick in letting her mother take the anxiolytics she used to take before Ajie returned to them. When the effect of the medication set in after a few minutes, Mrs. Lopez finally calmed down and drifted off to sleep as her husband laid her down on the couch.


    Watching them as they gathered in the living room, Ryan recalled this same reaction when he took Chloe from them. This similar willingness to die for the loss of one moved him deeply. Too many killings and cruelty happened before his very eyes, but never had he ever seen that someone in his family got affected.


    Mr. Dioko followed Ryan as he went to the dining room. He looked calm and composed, but Ryan could see clearly the fear and worries in his eyes. For men of few words like Mr. Dioko, their actions always speak louder than words.


    "Son, how may I help you? I also have my men. I can let them come over."


    The respect Mr. Dioko showed stirred a sense of admiration from Ryan. Though he could be more powerful, being in a successful chain of businesses for several years, his way of offering his assistance showed no intention to overlap Ryan''s capacity.


    "I can handle this, uncle. Trust me."


    Mr. Dioko nodded, lost in his thoughts right away. Ryan just observed him and wondered how his parents took advantage of his kindness. He was set for revenge to this man as his father had ordered, but this battle without intense fightings seemed to him a boring one. Just when Ryan dismissed the hope that Mr. Dioko would ever talk again, he cleared his throat and opened his mouth.


    "If only I could die on behalf of my children''s safety and happiness, I would," Mr. Dioko started to talk, his voice was so full of emotion.  "Just what are the fame and riches in this world for if you lost the ones who give the true meaning of your existence?"


    In Ryan''s world, these ideals didn''t exist. His father was too blinded with greed for wealth and power that it didn''t matter to him if his son would follow his wicked ways. It didn''t matter to him if his son''s life becomes endangered, his name tarnished, and his happiness denied. What only mattered were his orders being followed, and his plans worked out. Fixing his eyes to Mr. Dioko now, contemplating his words, made him, all of a sudden, lost his will to obey his father''s order.


    While they stayed in silence once again, the deafening sound of a chopper''s whirling blades disrupted their thoughts. The sound of the air vortex told them that the craft was about to land in close proximity. Ryan sprang up to his feet, casting Mr. Dioko a frightened look before he walked ahead of him. Mr. Dioko followed, and they went back to the living room where the rest of them were still there, also wondering who came at this hour. However, they also quickly presumed that perhaps, they were Ryan''s men on their areal search.


    "Ryan, I think that tea makes me feel better. I''m sweating all over, and after that, I feel good," Mr. Lopez greeted them back with this announcement, unalarmed at all by the strange and frightened look.


    "Yes, uncle. It''s from the weeds in Chara pool. We have been using it as our natural medicine," Ryan, somehow, managed to answer, completely concealing his discomfort.


    "There are healing wonders of nature, indeed, and there is wisdom in all ancient medicine."


    Just as Jane and Cherry were about to share their thoughts on this, a loud knocking on the main door jolted them all in their seats. It was so loud it almost shook the door, sending all their attention to it. Ryan then strode forward but Mr. Dioko held his arm to stop him.


    "Let me do it," Mr. Dioko''s voice was a little louder than a whisper but was firm and in full command.


    Ryan glanced at him, surprised by this thoughtfulness. He stopped for a while and stared at him.


    "Son, my days are already numbered. I guess it''s something threatening, so let me do it. Just please save my children."


    Mr. Dioko brushed past Ryan, whose feet pinned on the floor, then strode towards the door. As he placed a hand on the doorknob, Ryan quickly placed his hand above his.


    "Uncle, join the rest. It must be one of my father''s dramatic entrances."


    A sudden rush of horrifying sensation enveloped Mr. Dioko''s whole system that his spine started to creep up. He moved quickly towards the rest and placed himself in front of all of them. As soon as the door flung open, it revealed a sturdy man in his fifties, backed up by a few bodyguards. His eyes fell on them right away, scanning Mr. Dioko from head to toe, a few seconds after. He suddenly laughed hard until tears stung in his eyes.


    "What a wonderful surprise! Nothing makes me more excited than to see a traitor''s head on a platter," said Mr. Te in between his derisive laughter.


    "Mr. Te. I''m glad to know you''re out of jail already," Mr. Dioko replied, ignoring his threatening comment.


    "In this wicked world, man, money works! Do you know how? A stupid jail warden sets me free in exchange for my petty coins." Mr. Te laughed again, and his devilish laughter sent shivers to Jane and Cherry''s napes.

 Chapter 223 - Islet Mystery 39

    Jane and Cherry huddled together, moving closer to Mr.& Mrs. Lopez. Their hands and knees were already shaking, competing to the loud thuds of their heartbeats. Their eyes fastened to the man whose muscular physique held a threatening aura despite his age. His threat against Mr. Dioko darted through their senses like a bolt of thunder, leaving them staring silently at him. He may have handsome and powerful features, but he didn''t have any resemblance to Ryan. Listening to what he revealed, they cursed inwardly the officer who sullied his reputation over the glitters of silver.


    "Son, aren''t you going to invite your dad in?" Mr. Te shifted his attention to Ryan, who stood motionless, not far from them.


    "Dad, why are you here? You know it''s dangerous if someone finds this out." Ryan knew that if he was able to trick this warden out, not all officers could be bought with money.


    Mr. Te''s expression changed, and his face turned red. He threw Ryan a glare and threw his arm out, pointing the finger at him. "This is your fault. I am already losing my patience with you. What are you waiting for? You already have these people in your hand." Mr. Te moved the finger he aimed at Ryan then moved it around, pointing all of them.


    "Relax, dad. I''m already on the last steps. As I have always been telling you, I make a different approach."


    Mr. Te laughed again as he fixed his eyes at Mr. Dioko, moving it next to Mr. Lopez, who sat as motionless as a statue. He was glad though that his wife did not wake up despite the noise.


    "I agree, or else, you won''t be able to gather them all together in this Death Island. Have they known already that no one goes out alive once they are here?"


    "No need. They will soon realize it."


    Mr. Dioko''s trembling voice, rivaled with his sharp gaze, broke into the stale air.


    "What do you say?" Mr. Dioko moved his eyes between Ryan and Mr. Dioko.


    "I''m sorry, uncle," Ryan replied with a smirk, running his eyes from Jane to Mr. Dioko, "I''m only wearing a cloak. All those you see and feel from me are not real. I have been your enemy from the very beginning, in disguise of  an investor."


    Cherry felt every cell in her body was quivering in anger and fear. She was the one who introduced Ryan to them, the first victim who jumped innocently into his lies and deception.


    "Ryan, how could you?" Cherry shouted hysterically at Ryan, tears gathered in her eyes immediately, blurring her vision.


    Ryan laughed, but his face held no expression. "I kidnapped Chloe, and you easily believed in my lies that the suspect was found. You were so trusting that you did not even investigate."


    "It was also you who sent fake diamonds?" Mr. Lopez roared in anger.


    "Fake diamond. Why should I spend for a warning?"


    "How could you, Ryan? Why do you do this to us?"


    Mr. Te laughed louder, enjoying their confrontation. "A tooth for a tooth and parents to children..."


    Parents to children. Mr. Te''s arrest to the revenge against Mr. Dioko through his children...At the thought of this, they all snapped to the reality of Allie and Ajie''s loss.


    "I got them last night. What do you think? I can no longer wait for Ryan to make a move. That woman who is too fearless to put me into jail must face her judgment now."


    "Mr.Te, in favor of those years that I allow you to operate, please shift your revenge against me, instead. Release my children. They are innocent."


    "Whose kidding, Gerald?" Mr. Te''s eyes bulged out as his voice quivered in anger. "She released the blueprints to the beasts. Now, she must see who is the real beast."


    "She''s only a child then, and could easily get frightened over threats," begged Mr. Dioko, his voice softened as he pleaded. "Released them and take me instead."


    "You''re taking the fun away, man. And wait, whoever said that anyone of you could get out alive?" Mr. Te smirked and raised his brow, running his gaze to each of them. He then turned toward the huge men who stood behind him.


    "Shoot them now!"


    The men pulled their pistols from its holsters and aimed it quickly at them like a flash of lightning. The ladies held their breaths and crouched to protect themselves. Mr. Lopez threw himself over his wife, and Mr. Dioko jumped to the center to block them with his body. Just as they all closed their eyes, waiting for the men to pull the trigger, Ryan"s voice rang into the hall.


    "Relax, dad. Entrust them to me. I''m going to let you see my perfect way of executing the revenge you entrusted in my hands."


    "How?" Mr. Te turned to the men and gestured for them to put down their guns.


    "I also want to make sure that you fulfill your promise to me."


    "About the transfer of the ownership of the coffee plantation? Ryan, my dear, you''re my only son. Transferring it or not right now makes no difference. You are our only son and the sole heir to my businesses."


    "I''m sorry, dad. I want to put everything in writing because there are families out there who also want this property."


    "Ryan, why the coffee plantation alone? It is just a speck against our massive properties."


    "I don''t know why, but my heart is in it."


    Mr. Te called his lawyer right away and instructed him to send the copies he prepared ahead for the transfer of the said property. Ryan then had it scanned, and once the papers came out, Mr. Te immediately signed it.


    "At this time of the day, I have declared the transfer of Hacienda Te to your name," said Mr. Te in a mocking tone, knowing that Ryan was doing a secret video coverage.


    "Thank you, dad."


    "It''s your turn to fulfill your promise!"


    "Sure."


    Ryan led the five of them outside, parallel to the Chara pool. Mrs. Lopez was still asleep, and Mr. Lopez carried her out in a bridal style. Because of their fright, no one remembered that they placed Chloe inside a room to sleep.


    As if nature sympathized with the evil plan, thunders began to roar, and lightning hit the skies in quick succession. The blue-and-white-painted skies suddenly turned dark, and black clouds appeared. Big drops of rain started to splatter, making Mr. Te and the men ran for shelter under the canopy of the tree beside the Chara pool.


    Ryan ushered them fast into a boat, its size enough to contain them. He then instructed them to fasten their seatbelt, and with shaking hands, they complied. Their fear and anguish took their chances to cry and mourn ahead for their impending death.


    "What are you planning to do to them?" Mr. Te''s loud voice echoed into everyone''s fainting hearts except Mrs. Lopez, who remained in a deep sleep.


    "Look ahead! Do you see the whirlpool?" Ryan stretched out his arm and pointed out the extensive coverage of the mighty vortex.


    Mr. Te looked out and laughed hard as he imagined them drowning and suctioned into the bottom of the vortex and possibly, buried into one of the many caves under the sea. The five of them also looked out, and their breaths stopped right away as the reality of their soon-coming death became almost palpable. The feeling of dread immediately wrapped their whole beings as their eyes got wide when the boat''s engine powered to life.


    Before they could think, they watched in horror as the strong whirlpool caught their small vessel and sent them whirling fast into the center of the vortex. In a blink of an eye, the raging current suctioned the boat and plunged it down, until the waves muffled the sound of their desperate screams.

 Chapter 224 - The Islet Mystery 40

    "What did you say?" Joey asked wide-eyed as he stared hard at Ajie.


    "Ryan Neil Yu. Isn''t he your boss?"


    "I don''t know his name."


    Ajie laughed sardonically at his confession. "Are you kidding me? How could you obey orders from someone you don''t even know?"


    "I''m telling the truth."


    Joey was telling the truth indeed. When Ryan agreed to help him with the medical expenses of Shiela, he wore a mask and didn''t face him. Ryan only provided him a private phone where he could call. He also gave Mr. Te his number so he could make use of his idle times apart from a series of training. Ryan only rarely asked him for a task and because of that, Mr. Te always prioritized Ryan''s needs over his. Aside from the fact that Mr. Te had more experts under him, Joey was personally hired by Ryan.


    Joey was not supposed to talk and be kind to his captives but the mentioned of Ryan Neil Yu perked his interest. His conversation with Shiela was still vivid in his mind and he made sure he couldn''t forget the name of his grandson''s father. Staring blankly at Ajie now, his mind did a quick recall of the voices who called and gave him tasks. Only now did he realized, or perhaps, give attention, that there were two callers all these times. One from an older man and the other one, from a young man. Could it be from a father and son?


    "Ryan is not the bad person here. It is his father."


    Shiela''s words reverberated in Joey''s mind and pondering about it now made him realize that those cruel orders came from the older man. His thoughts then traced back the connections he first had with the young man. It started with his first task of finding a pregnant woman within his father''s territory in disguise of familiarizing their businesses. Ryan made him swear through a phone call him that he would keep the task as discreet as he could keep, even to his parents. Joey''s heart pounded as he grasped its relevance to what Shiela had confessed him. This young voice could belong to Ryan Neil Yu, himself, who gave him the task of finding Shiela within his territory.


    "You look shocked," Ajie voiced out his observation, the severity of the threatening situation dissipated slowly as the captor''s expression changed from being terrifying to appalled.


    "Tell me more about this person," Joey said, "I might let you escape from your doom if I get sufficient information about him."


    Ajie laughed and shook his head, "How can we expect kindness from someone tasked to abduct us?"


    Joey stared at him without blinking, his eyes reflecting gentleness and sincerity. "Let''s just say that the mention of the name, Ryan Neil Yu, reminds me of my personal enemy. Both of us get the benefit, do we?"


    Ajie thought about it and decided to accept the offer. They were already held as captives and escaping seemed so difficult. His mind was never prepared about this and he wasn''t either educated regarding escapes and outwitting an enemy. He turned to Allie and looked at her, communicating through their eyes regarding her opinion about this. Allie nodded then lifted her head to look at their abductor''s face.


    "Bring us first to a safe place," Allie said, looking around and up the ceiling. Joey understood what her gestures implied. She may be thinking about CCTV''s installed all around.


    "I''ll take you to your room."


    The room was plain with a wooden bed in the corner. There was a closet across the bed, a four-seater table on the other side, and a bathroom. Looking at it now, Allie thought about her daughter and what could have happened with them. Were they captured also? Were they still alive? Were they safe but worrying about them? Her fears and worries dominated once again and she could no longer wait for another second to know the truth.


    "First of all, may we know your name?" Allie did not hesitate to ask once she slumped herself into the bed.


    Joey frowned and blinked, hesitating to comply. He looked Allie and Ajie for a long while, debating within himself if he should reveal his name. He was the one who asked for this favor and so it was only fair to tell the truth.


    "Call me Joey."


    "I am Allie and this is Adrian Lopez. I and my family first met Ryan during our cruise to Japan. He joined us because he wants to invest in our company, the Rough Seas Marine Supplies & Equipments."


    Images of Shiela flashed in Joey''s mind. He was visiting her at that time and she was jumping for joy because she got a contract for a business partnership with Rough Seas.


    "Pa, Rough Seas is a promising and stable company. It already covers many countries in Europe and some states in the USA. I have also learned lately, that they are also expanding in UAE. Can you imagine my company''s stability for the whole period we are connected to them?"


    His heart skipped a beat as he was getting more excited about this conversation. These couple in front of him were the ones offering her daughter a contract. If they make her daughter happy,  and if they were kind to her, why would he withhold the information to them?


    "I''m Joey Ferrer."


    Allie and Adrian looked at each other at his mention of his last name. It was such a coincidence that they happened to meet another Ferrer. Though Shiela did not speak much about her family, she had mentioned about his father being in constant travel as an assistant to his boss. They put up the pieces together and concluded that Joey could be Ryan''s assistant. Sad to say that his being an assistant was not for a noble cause.


    "What do you mean by that look?" Joey asked, not leaving his gaze even for a blink.


    "We happen to have a dear friend, a family, and business partner," Allie answered.


    "Shiela Ferrer."

 Chapter 225 - The Islet Mystery 41

    "Ladies and gentlemen, we are waiting for the landing clearance from the Air Traffic Control tower. We expect to land in fifteen minutes. Thank you so much for your patience."


    Shiela sighed as she listened to the In-Flight Service Director announcing their soon arrival to Abu Dhabi International Airport in the capital of the United Arab Emirates. It is the second-largest international airport in the UAE after Dubai International Airport. From there, someone whom Ryan appointed to meet her would take her to Chara Blooms, a five-star hotel he owned. For her safety, she would also hold her office there.


    As soon as she got her luggage, she proceeded to the terminal exit, and as soon as she got into the lobby, a lady in her forties holding a small banner with the name and logo of the hotel waved at her. Shiela smiled at the thought of Ryan''s thoughtfulness. He prepared everything she needed and all she had to do was to take the flight and the lift towards the place he prepared for her. Thinking that the smile was for her, the lady broke into a wide grin and met her halfway.


    "Mrs. Shiela Ferrer Yu?" the loud and happy voice of the lady tickled her.


    Mrs. Shiela Ferrer Yu, a name so strange and distant, but pleasing to her ears. She felt it funny and awkward. Had Ryan been there, she would have pinched him hard for not informing her ahead of her borrowed title.


    "Yes, I''m Sheila,"  she replied, holding her urge to giggle. "Thanks for coming over to meet me, Miss Yen."


    Ryan informed her ahead about who would meet her at the airport, what model of the car she would be riding with Miss Yen, and the floor level where she would be staying. She even laughed when he mentioned Chara Blooms as the name of the hotel.


    Shiela stretched out her arms to hug Miss Yen. She could already guess by her first impression on her that they could become good friends. Miss Yen was a bit surprised, but she quickly concealed it. Her smile grew wider as she received Shilela''s hug.


    "Mrs. Yu, please follow me to the parking," Miss Yen said as she took from Shiela''s hand her luggage.


    "Miss Yen, please call me Shiela and not Mrs. Yu."


    Miss Yen furrowed her brows before letting out her captivating smile, "I''m afraid your husband, Mr. Yu, wouldn''t like it."


    Shiela laughed at Miss Yen''s surprise. "He told you that?"


    "Of course. Mr. Yu asked me to hold a meeting to announce his wife''s soon coming," she replied sincerely, then she added, "he adores and loves you so much, Mrs.Yu. How long have you been married? Tomorrow, I would also be meeting Atty. Manloza for the transfer of Mr. Yu''s businesses here into your name."


    Shiela felt like fainting. What was really inside Ryan''s mind? These were already proof of his sincerity, but how could he get away from his marriage with Jullien? Were these all rather his compensation for marrying someone else? Or, perhaps, she just didn''t trust him enough.


    Not long after they boarded Ryan''s car, they slowed down in front of Chara Blooms, allowing Shiela to take in the whole facade of the building. Situated amidst Saadiyat Island, a natural island in Abu Dhabi transformed into a flourishing center of arts and culture, it stood out as one of the attractions of the place. Shiela got awed by its height and elegance and the fact that this was the fruit of Ryan''s effort and productivity.


    Miss Yen, by her side, talked a lot about many things such as the skyrocketing income of the hotel, the excellent reviews about their services, and the myriad reasons why tourists chose to stay in Chara Blooms. Before they knew it, the driver already stopped in front of the private lift that would take Shiela to her suite.


    Miss Yen left Shiela to take a rest before she would formally introduce her to the administrators and staff during the welcome party Ryan held for her. She toured around her suite and paused by the floor-to-ceiling glass window overlooking the city below. On the side where she was standing, she could see the turquoise waters and the white sand of the beautiful coastline. Towering buildings lined up the horizon, giving her a glimpse of a bustling lifestyle below.


    Changing into something comfortable while she lay down in her bed, she decided to call Allie. Ryan had warned her not to call him because he was afraid that her calls would be registered, giving his dad a chance to trace her up. However, after several attempts, her number couldn''t be reached. She tried Cherry and Jane''s numbers and the rest of them, but still, they were out of coverage.


    Her heartbeats started to beat like the drumming of the cicadas. It seemed unusual that all of them would be out of coverage together. Although Ryan''s place was in the middle of the sea, he used the highest available technology to avail of the connection to urban life. She remembered Richard, and through him, she learned that Andrew, Joanna, and the rest of them underwent investigation for the loss of Allie and Ajie. Richard also informed her that the following morning, the rest of them got into a boat and no longer returned. Only Chloe was left in their room, asleep.


    "What happened then?" Shiela asked, finding it hard to catch his breath.


    "Ryan called up Hayri and informed him about what happened. He took the next plane available in Turkey before his company''s pilot met him in NAIA. They then arrived here via chopper."


    "There are CCTV''s all around. Why not look into it?"


    "Yes, but only some areas of the house are covered. The last clear video footage is about all of them gathering in the living room while Ryan was serving them tea. The next scenes are blurry footages of them coming out of the house and Ryan helping them in fastening their seatbelts. The connection was then cut due to flashes of lightning, resulting in electrical disruption."


    "Where were they going?"


    "Ryan told us that they want to come to the hotel where we are staying to talk about Allie and Adrian''s loss."


    Shiela was already choking due to her loud and racing heartbeats. There must be something wrong. The CCTV''s must have been tampered. She already knew it would happen; that''s why she gave Allie some survival tips. Ryan''s dad must have made his moves already.


    Shiela decided she just couldn''t stay here and enjoy the comfort while the lives of her newly-found family hang in the balance. She must go back and help Ryan find their child in her own way. Only then would Ryan find the courage to end his father''s wickedness.

 Chapter 226 - The Islet Mystery 42

    Moaning in a loud voice and tossing her hips wildly to meet Andy''s accelerating thrusts, Jullien gave her all. A few days from now, she and Ryan would finally get married, and she would leave Andy forever. Though she and Ryan didn''t love each other, she was not that wicked to allow indecency into their married life. She had to let go and set Andy free to set his own sails. All through the years that they had been together, Andy chose to stay without conditions. He knew from the very start that a day would come that they had to end. She was for Ryan and Ryan for her forever.


    "Andy, I may hate to say this, but I still want you to know that I am wishing you''d find someone who will love you truly and someone you would love the same way," Jullien muttered as soon as they lay by each side, exhausted.


    Andy gave out a faint smile, turned her around and held her close from behind.


    "Andy, I would be missing you. Believe me, it''s not just about sex..."


    Andy still didn''t say a word but pulled her closer to himself, the top of her head resting just below his chin. His silence ripped her heart apart because she knew that behind his silence was a gnawing pain, boring deep within his soul. He may choose to keep it to himself but the way he tightened his arms around her, spoke of his deep anguish.


    "Andy, please. Can''t you at least say something?" Jullien''s voice already cracked. She hated him for his cowardice to express himself. She would have understood if he leashed his tongue on her, slap her hard or hurt her until she bleeds. At least in that small way, she could somehow pay the price of hurting and leaving him.


    "Tomorrow or the next day, I and Ryan will be returning to the city for the wedding preparation. I would have wanted first to hear your thoughts about this."


    Jullien turned to face him and her heart broke more at what she saw. Andy''s silent tears were already trickling through the bridge of his nose and down to the cheek that he pressed on the pillow. She burrowed her face right away into his chest and soon felt his shoulders moving in suppressed sobs. For what seemed like eternity, she stayed in his chest while he caged her to himself, feeling every bit of emotion he poured into his silent tears.


    While still locked in each other''s arms, a light knock on the door broke their bondage. Andy hurried to put on his set of pajama then went out to open the door. Peeping at the hole first, he saw Ryan standing outside.


    "Dad is here. He wants to talk to Jullien before he leaves." Ryan announced as soon as Andy opened the door.


    Andy nodded and watched him leave. How could Ryan swallow the truth that while his wedding was fast approaching, his bride was in the arms of another man? And how could he give up the only woman his heart ever yearned? Of the many women trying to get his attention ever since they were in college, there was only one he always talked about, and that was Shiela. He even wondered what kind of spell she cast on him that Ryan seemed too blinded to notice someone else.


    "What does Ryan want?" Jullien asked as soon as Andy was back.


    "Dress up. Ryan''s father is waiting for you."


    Jullien frowned and threw the covers away, exposing her full nudity to Andy''s eyes. She then stomped her way toward the bathroom and took a quick shower before changing into a presentable casual attire to face her soon father-in-law.


    "Uncle, you''re here!" Jullien hollered as soon as she saw him in the coffee table, sipping his tea.


    "Jullien, darling. You''re becoming more beautiful as ever every time I see you," Mr. Te said as he stood to greet Jullien with a hug.


    "That''s too flattering, uncle."


    ''Why not start calling me daddy? A few days from now, you will be my daughter-in-law," urged Mr. Te as he held her shoulders with his hands.


    "Yes, d-dad," Jullien said before bursting out into soft laughter. "You have always been a father to me ever since I was an infant."


    "That''s right, darling. That''s why I and your parents want the best for both of you. By the way, how''s the research going on?"


    Jullien''s eyes then lit up with a glow of excitement. "Dad, I''m so bad. How can I forget?" Juliet bit her lip and sighed in self-annoyance.


    "What is it, dear?" Mr. Te shook his head in amusement as he looked at Jullien with strange gentleness.


    "I still have to do some steps before I''m going to launch this product. I have formulated an anti-aging solution out of the rare weeds here. It''s more potent than any existing glutathione or whatsoever. It''s even more effective than any stem cell therapy."


    Mr. Te just gazed at her in awe, speechless about her brilliance. When he remained gaping at what she announced and did not say anything, Jullien continued.


    "It''s a miracle, dad! It''s going to be a breakthrough. Why spend millions when you can have this organic product at a cheaper cost?"


    "Oh, dear, can you please try it on me?"


    "Sure, dad."


    "Right now?"


    "Definitely."


    Jullien excused herself and when she came back, she was already holding a tray with a syringe, an alcohol swab, and an injection patch. She sat down across Mr. Te, rub the alcohol swab in a circular motion around a vein in his antecubital area, then injected the medicine in the syringe.


    "When will be the next dose, dear," Mr. Te asked, his eyes beaming with excitement.


    "I''ll be seeing you every day, dad. I want you and my parents to look young and glowing during our wedding."


    "That''s great, darling. I can''t wait for my friends to notice it."


    "Will you be there?"


    "Of course. I have already written a letter to the president and he grants it to me."


    After a few more topics, Jullien and Ryan walked Mr. Te and his men to where his chopper was waiting. They stayed until the aircraft took them high up in the sky. In a blink of an eye, the craft turned vague in their eyes, as vague as what tomorrow held for them.

 Chapter 227 - The Islet Mystery 43

    "Somebody saw both of you in a boat before the couple disappeared. Is it true?" An interrogation officer sitting across Andrew and Joanna asked them. The messy beard, his sturdy built and dark complexion made him look intimidating.


    "Yes."


    "Was there an argument among the four of you while you were on the boat?"


    "No. We were happily chatting while enjoying the beauty of the surroundings," answered Joanna when the officer fixed his gaze at her.


    "Where did you go after you separated?"


    "We went back to the hotel where we stayed while Allie and Adrian went back to the yacht."


    "Did you see them leaving?"


    "No," Andrew answered this time.


    "What makes you say they went back to the yacht?"


    "I just presumed they went back directly to the yacht because it was already dark and the whole family was there."


    "So, none of you had seen them going up?"


    "None."


    "Have they mentioned about going somewhere during your chat?"


    "No."


    "We heard a report that you had a conflict with this couple," the police officer turned to Andrew and looked straight into his eyes.


    "I do not deny that but that was all in the past. We had already talked about it and I had apologized."


    The interrogation went on for some time before the rest of the team were called out. After all of them presented their side, Hayri entered the interrogation room.


    "How is it going, chief?" Hayri asked even before the officer asked him to sit down across his desk.


    "So far, I have no lead. Fortunately, the hotel management placed a secret monitoring and hearing devices in their boats. It may be a violation against privacy and confidentiality but due to several reported cases of kidnapping and disappearance, this is the best way to trace the culprit down."


    Hayri drew in a deep breath and sighed. The search operation and rescue team still had no reported progress and everything seemed hopeless. The seafloor had too many caves and blind holes that penetrating into any of them posed great risks to the rescuer. He felt so useless and his headache had gone worse for thinking so hard. To scour the entire seafloor in this area sounded futile and impossible. He didn''t expect that the peace and reconciliation within the family turned out to be just a calm before the storm.


    Just as he placed his head in between his two palms, Ryan came to pick him up. He also underwent thorough investigation and interrogation but he was too good in hiding all the pieces of evidence that could point out to his dad. The authority rummaged through his beach house but found nothing. The time the thunder and lightning hit in that morning when he let them get inside a boat, was exactly the time the electrical connection got disconnected. His skill in computers allowed him to cut and edit the video footages that recorded his father''s arrival and the confrontation that followed. The authority did not even exempt Jullien and Andy but the footage showed the time they entered and went out of their room.


    Ryan brought Hayri back to his beach house. Chloe was there and Jullien took care of her. Even if Chloe was still a child, they still found it hard to tell her the truth that her family disappeared and maybe, died. Hayri was able to control his emotion when he heard about what happened but he was not able to shield himself from the pain of watching a distressed child.


    "Daddy Hayri, where''s mom and dad? They take so long," Chloe complained after holding for a long time her urge to cry. Ever since Ajie taught her to address him as ''daddy'', it was permanently inculcated in her mind. There were times, though, that she was confused between calling him uncle or daddy because also of the different ways the adult let her call him.


    Hayri picked her up and placed her in his lap. His heart sank when her tears started dripping from her beautiful eyes. It may sound funny, yet, it looked like he instantly became a daddy.


    "Baby, daddy is here. We can read, play or sleep while waiting for them. If you like it, we can go back to the city and go to playrooms or any beautiful place you like to go to."


    Chloe''s black eyes glistened with tears but she still managed to talk even if now and then, she would pause to cry.


    "What if mom and dad come back and they won''t find me here?"


    "It''s not a problem, baby. I can leave a message and tell them where we are."


    "Why not call them now and tell them to hurry up? Tell them Chloe is waiting," Chloe could no longer stop herself. She cried hard so Hayri lifted her in his arms, and paced back and forth the living room to comfort her.


    Standing not far from them, Ryan''s felt his heart crushed in watching them. If his child had lived, he would have been a little older than Chloe. He could have lifted him in his arms to comfort him also every time he was crying. He could have played with him or take him to school every day. He could have put him to sleep in his arms but his father did not give him the chance.


    Reminded of that poignant part of his life, he felt his blood rushed up to his brain and his temper spiked. He became so angry that he wanted to kick everything in his way, especially when he imagined the pain Shiela had gone through. His father''s wickedness was already filling up the brim.


    He sprinted toward his secret passageway and entered his chamber. He lifted the cover of the grand piano and pulled the seat simultaneously. He then ran down his fingers across the keyboard, letting it fly the next second as its tips produced a beautiful sound of anger, of loneliness and of hatred. As he released his emotion into the loudest sound and the highest notes his fingers could produce, he slammed into the keyboard and tickled the keys as fast as he could until he slowed down at a gradual pace until the music faded into the background.


    After ventilating his anger, he came back to the living room and joined Hayri. Chloe was already sleeping in his arms and Hayri was leaning his head at the top of the backrest.


    "Hayri, I will go back to the city with Jullien for the wedding preparation. Just please stay here until everything goes well."


    Hayri squinted his eyes as he looked at Ryan, wondering what he exactly meant.


    "Come with me. I''ll show you something."


    Hayri stood up and followed Ryan as they went inside his room. Once inside the room, they entered another room which was furnished with elegant living room furniture.


    "My plan was different," Ryan began to talk while looking straight into Hayri''s eyes. "I invited the singing band because I can manipulate the investigating team and push the blame on your family''s loss against Andrew. But I changed my mind."


    Hayri stared at Ryan, his brows knitted together as his mind processed what he was saying. He then froze when he realized what he meant.


    "Do you mean you are the one behind my family''s disappearance? How dare you, Ryan!"


    Hayri was about to throw a fist into Ryan''s face when the floor where they stood suddenly moved and dropped them down, taking Hayri''s breath away!

 Chapter 228 - The Islet Mystery 44

    Hayri almost fell to the side and hit his head on the wall as the floor plummeted down in a vertical drop. He felt his mind shut for a moment, and the next thing he realized was that the floor transformed into a rectangular space and became a lift. His eyes got wide in shock as he held Chloe closer to himself in a protective pose, only to realize later that all the while, Ryan was holding them.


    The lift stopped and opened to a room filled with musical instruments. In the middle was a sleek black, grand piano with an opened lid. The bench that was placed a bit away from the body of the piano and the music sheets dangling from the holder, indicated that someone had just been using it.


    Ryan pulled out a chair for Hayri to sit down. The sharp glints of his eyes glaring at him were enough to tell Ryan that if only Chloe were not there, he would have smashed his face to the floor.


    "What is this drama all about? Where is my family?" Hayri roared at him and refused to sit down.


    Ryan acted as if he felt unthreatened by his provoked aura. He smiled and sat calmly at the piano bench. "I bring you here because we need to talk. I understand your anger, but I need you to calm down first and open your mind to what I''m going to say."


    Realizing that he wouldn''t gain anything in losing himself to anger, especially that he was on Ryan''s territory, Hayri decided to play along. He sighed and walked forward to the chair and sat down, adjusting his hold at Chloe to a more comfortable position.


    To Hayri''s further annoyance, Ryan turned to the piano and positioned his fingers above the keyboard. Was this man crazy? Hayri was already dying to know the truth, but here was Ryan, toying with his emotion. Hayri was about to snap in anger, but he noticed the subtle shaking of Ryan''s knees. He glanced at his face and saw tears trickling down his face as his fingers danced across the keyboard.


    In the next second, Ryan seemed to have lost himself into the full and rich sound of the beautiful music coming from the tips of his fingers. Hayri may have been gritting his teeth in anger, but as the soft music flowed, it pierced into his soul. There was only one conclusion to the message the music implied, Ryan was under stress. He was afraid, confused, and hurt.


    "As the son of a father who served behind bars, I am expecting that of all the people surrounding me, it is you who can understand me better," said Ryan as soon as he ended his piece. When Hayri did not reply, he continued.


    "I love music. It is the only way I can pour out my complicated emotions. I hired Andrew''s band for a single purpose, to use him for my revenge. Do you still remember how I insisted on pushing him as the suspect?"


    Hayri froze in hearing this when he recalled Chloe''s loss during the cruise. "So it is you who did it on Chloe? Ryan, why?"


    Anger seemed to swallow Hayri up at the thought of how he manipulated them into believing all his lies. Who would have thought that behind his cheerfulness and thoughtfulness, was a wolf ready to devour all of them?


    "It is because of your sister who sold our secrets to the crocodile and your father, who drowned my father further to the vortex."


    Hayri stared dumbfounded at the revelation. He couldn''t believe that after the years of silence from the rest of the syndicate leaders, there was a plan brewing to crush them down. This was what he was too afraid of. This was why he was so against his father''s plan to become a state witness. The day had finally come...


    "Don''t worry, Hayri. Because of your kindness, because of the special bond I witness in your family, I change my mind."


    Hayri stared at him further, confused about what he really meant.


    "Come with me first." Hayri heard Ryan spoke and saw him entering again the ''magic'' lift that blew his mind a while ago. He followed him like a robot, having too many unanswered questions in his mind.


    As soon as the door closed, the lift descended and stopped to another level below. Ryan stepped out ahead, and with Hayri following, they walked towards a room. Ryan then knocked on the door, but no one opened. Hayri wanted to ask who was inside, but his heartbeats were already drumming in his ears. He would have been less nervous if Chloe was not with him.


    After a few minutes of waiting, Ryan picked up his bunch of keys and opened the door. The moment the door opened, Hayri''s eyes widened in shock as the frightened screams from the group inside the room pierced into his ears. They huddled together in fear, and when Ryan turned on the light, their eyes flew wide before the ladies squealed, and Ryan broke into a broad smile.


    "Hayri! Ryan!" came the shrieks of Cherry and Jane as they rushed to hug Ryan and Hayri. Hayri hesitated because he still did not know what Ryan''s real motive behind all these.


    "What''s happening? I thought we would already die after being suctioned into the whirlpool. The drop was too high, and I even feel that maybe, it was how those who jump in the  ''Leap of Faith'' feel."


    The Leap of Faith is a waterslide in Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, which offers a daring and adventurous almost-vertical drop. This 60-foot body slide propels riders at tremendous speed through a clear acrylic tunnel submerged in a lagoon filled with amazing marine life.


    Ryan laughed and tossed his head backward before he replied. "But you have not propelled into a shark-filled lagoon but the underground level of my house."


    They looked at each other as they began to put the pieces together. They realized that everything Ryan showed in front of his father was just a deception. As to the reason why he chose them over his father remained a mystery. Nevertheless, they were so grateful at how their fate turned into another way around.


    "Ryan, do you also keep the three?" Jane dared to ask after her nerves calmed down. She meant Allie, Ajie, and Shiela. When they found out about Allie and Ajie''s loss, they did not mind Shiela at all because they knew that Ryan was so extra careful of her.


    "Yes, Ry. All this time, I am thinking if Shiela is with you. What happened was too fast, but I just assured myself that surely, you could not wander your eyes away from her."


    Ryan''s face dropped. "I hope so. However, I can no longer connect my call to the one I assigned for them. I just hoped daddy did not get them ahead of me."


    Their overwhelming joy suddenly burst out into a pang of fear and worries. They were glad they were safe, but the uncertainties of the safety of the three dissolved their momentary happiness like fleeting bubbles.

 Chapter 229 - The Islet Mystery 45

    Inside an Intensive Care Unit, a man was lying don on a bed, attached to multiple beeping machines. In his mouth was an endotracheal tube,  attached to a mechanical ventilator. In his nose, a feeding tube for his oral medications and food. His intravenous fluids were hanging into two IV stands, its tubings passing through infusion pumps. There were no voices heard but the beeps and the pumping of the machines sounded like a call to the gates of Hades.


    Mr. Te went inside the room, in his hands was a brown envelope. He glanced at the nurse and the latter cringed at his glare. "I need some privacy. I want to talk to my parents."


    The nurse stood up and looked at the eye of Mrs. Yu who was sitting quietly by the bedside of her dying husband. Mrs. Yu understood what the nurse implied, so she nodded and the nurse went out right away.


    "Ma, I want both of you to sign the transfer of our land''s ownership into my name. Papa is dying already and among your children, I am the only one capable of making an income out of this. My older brother is illiterate and your menopausal child is still so young, so this property would only be wasted."


    "Gerome, you know that your brother will not agree that. We never hide the fact that we adopted you from our neighbor who died. And besides, my other relatives will not agree to that. A few years from now, Ryan will grow up and has to decide also regarding this family inheritance."


    Gerome flushed in anger in hearing her and he yelled at her in anger. "Should you always remind me that I am not your son? That I am the son of a drug addict who killed my mother?"


    Mrs. Yu shivered in fear as she tried to defend herself. "Jerome, you know that we love and accept you as our real son."


    "It''s not true, Ma, because if you are not lying to yourself, you should have trusted me enough to manage this property."


    "Gerome, it''s not what I mean. I just have to do what is right. We have other properties that we purchased. We will transfer it to your name. Just spare the coffee plantation. It''s the legacy of the Yu''s."


    Gerome reached out his hand to the tubing attached to Mr. Yu''s mouth and to the mechanical ventilator which assisted his respiration.


    "Do you see this?"


    Mrs. Yu looked at him in horror. Though she didn''t understand much the mechanism of actions this machine did, she was not too stupid enough to understand, that if the tubing was disconnected, it could mean his husband''s death.


    "No, please. Don''t do it to your father Gerome."


    "You know he is not my father. I was already in high school when you took me into your home."


    "Your father loves you, Gerome. Please don''t do that."


    Gerome laughed mischievously. "A killer has no heart, Ma, and Papa is not my real father. My intention is just to be able to return you the favor of taking me into your home. If I will be the one to manage this, this could bring us a fortune."


    "You can still do it without the need of transferring the ownership. You are siblings so you can talk about this."


    Gerome got impatient and he roared. "Are you going to sign this or not?"


    Because of fear, Mrs. Yu signed the documents. He also dipped the thumbs of Mr. Yu into a stamp pad afterward, then pressed it on the document.


    When Gerome finally left, Mr. Yu moved, to the surprise of Mrs. Yu. She ran outside and called the nurse and Mr. Yu gestured to write something on a paper.


    "Gather some Chara flowers in our homeplace and let me drink."


    ________


    Gerome Te was already graduating in high school when the Yu''s adopted him. Because of his diligence in school and his determination, he graduated in college with honors. He was a friend of Gavin Sy since high school, and his family''s influence on him, made him yearn for a life of wealth and fame. He borrowed funds from the Sy''s and cultivated the coffee plantation until he became the biggest exporter of gourmet Arabica Beans. When both Gerome and Gavin got married, they made a pact, that they would marry their children in the future and train them to become the successor of their businesses.


    A few days after the transfer of ownership, Mr. Yu recovered and was discharged. However, the hospital bill was too big. On top of that, Ryan got sick of severe pneumonia and Gerome paid the hospital bill. They thought it was out of kindness that Gerome did it for them but one day after he got married to a rich woman, he came to talk to them.


    "You owe me a huge amount, so in order to be able to pay, you will work for me as housekeepers. My wife has bought an island somewhere in Papa''s hometown, so I will assign both of you as caretakers. To return you another favor, Ryan will stay with us and I will also adopt him as our son."


    Robbed from all their properties including the coffee plantation, they had no choice but to follow Gerome''s orders. He was also able to threaten the older son of the old couple to keep his mouth shut.


    ______


    Mr. & Mrs. Lopez, Mr. Dioko, Cherry and Jane shuddered at the revelation and goosebumps crept into their spines.


    "So, you mean Ry, you''re father is your foster brother?"


    "Yes," Ryan nodded, his eyes glistened with unshed tears.


    "Where''s your older brother now?" Mr. Dioko asked, too horrified at Mr. Te''s wickedness.


    "I keep him away from them. It was he who revealed everything to me, including their sins on Shiela. I only agree to execute his revenge against you because I have not succeeded yet in gathering all the pieces of evidence against him. I also believe that somewhere, my parents and my son are still alive."

 Chapter 230 - The Islet Mystery 46

    "Where are your parents now?" Mr. Dioko asked as he moved closer to Ryan, too overwhelmed about what he had just heard.


    "It''s been a while since I am looking for them, uncle. In this area, there are too many hidden coves, and underneath the sea are many caves which lead to islets. I believe he keeps them in one of these caves. This islet also leads to a cave, and that is where I placed the machine that would create a vortex and suck you in. This is also my way of trapping any of dad''s spies who come near."


    All of them gaped at the revelation, and Ryan chuckled at their reaction. Who would ever think that they would still be alive? This fact was even more surprising than the wonders of this aqua paradise. From the hot and cold spring to the Chara pool, from the glowing Chara blooms to the crystal-clear lagoons, from the caves underneath and the coves.


    "We used to have a beach house in one of the coves, but father said, a great earthquake had destroyed  the landmarks and so our house and my parents."


    "I don''t believe it!" Mr. Lopez replied as anger drew out in his face," Ryan, allow us to help you. I''ll hire men to scour the seafloor."


    "I''m afraid dad will find it out. I have already released a statement to the press, telling them that the search is still ongoing. So, you have to bear the inconvenience and stay here until I can settle everything."


    "I have an idea," suggested Mr. Dioko, his eyes gleaming with excitement, "I''ll negotiate with a fishing company to invade this territory. Then, I''ll send men to do the search in disguise of fishermen. The use of scanners would make the search a lot easier."


    "Good idea," chorused the others.


    "Son, have you not considered this idea before?" Mrs. Lopez broke her silence after fully convincing herself that Ryan was not an enemy."


    "I was afraid that dad would find it out. He has ways to know if a fishing company suddenly secures a license to fish in this territory. Big fishing companies don''t find this place a good catch due to rocks and caves underneath, trapping their fishing nets and gears."


    "That''s a complicated thing to do. Nevertheless, I will still try if that''s alright with you."


    "Anything, uncle, I don''t mind at all. I''m already desperate to find them."


    _______


    "Let''s find a way for you to escape. I need to see the younger boss and ask what his plans about you are," Joey said, his sweat trickling from his temples despite the freezing atmosphere. Allie and Ajie revealed to him everything that they knew about Shiela and Ryan. He could never accept the fact that he was working for someone who ruined her daughter''s life.


    "What will we do?" Allie asked, her airways suddenly constricted at the thought of them escaping. They were gathering inside the room, squatting on the floor.


    "We still have a lot of time to plan out. Not until the low tide comes can we get out of the cove."


    "What time is the low tide?"


    "Seven in the evening." Allie''s eyes grew wide at the thought of escaping at night. All they could see once they go out of the cove would only be the endless stretch of the seawater.


    "Allie, do you know how to swim?" Joey asked her, glints of worry and fear were written in his face.


    "I know, but I am pregnant," she threw a quick stare at Ajie, who wrapped his arms around her shoulders right away. He did not speak, but his expression was changing from anger to fear and to anguish.


    Ajie stood up and heaved a loud sigh, throwing a fist at the wall in the next second.


    "She can''t swim her way out of this hell. Uncle, how do you find your way here?" Frustration and fear were already wearing out his patience.


    "I don''t exactly know, but the boat is controlled electromechanically. It means I only have to control the speed but it automatically goes up here."


    Joey then explained that the control panel must be in a particular area he did not know, and that''s where the men of Ryan''s father connected themselves. When he came here, Ryan instructed him to stay at the hotel where the group of Andrew stayed.  On the night he abducted Allie and Ajie, he got an instruction to find the yacht on a certain island, and from there, he would take them here through the boat he was told to use.


    "How about cutting the connection while it is still high tide?"


    "I am afraid that we don''t have much time until they find it out. I think, " Joey paused as he stared at him, "the reason why Ryan was not able to penetrate in this area is that, he knows well that his father uses a technology that can detect his movements."


    "So?" Allie asked, her voice was already quivering.


    "So we need to get out of here through swimming. The boat is too easy for them to detect."


    "No!" Ajie protested, but Allie cut him off.


    "Yes, we can," Allie''s eyes sparked in excitement as if she remembered something.


    "It''s not safe for you and the baby. We must think of other ways."


    "We don''t have the luxury of time. Shiela must have seen this ahead!" she glowed as she recalled that moment when Shiela dragged her on a corner. Her words echoed in her ear, and drops of tears start spilling as she listened again to her voice in her mind.


    "During the daytime, you will see the distinctive marks on the sea. It looks like a map spreading out in a lighter shade of green. During the nighttime, like tonight, the seafloor beneath it glitters into a kaleidoscope of red, blue, and silver hues."


    "There are life jackets here! That''s all we need. Let''s pray for calm weather tonight. Strong winds would be disastrous."


    As soon as the water level ebbed down under the canopy of dark skies, the three set out to get out of the cove. Despite the darkness that enveloped the whole place, the glow of Chara blooms guided them towards the fate that awaited them. However, they only have two choices; freedom or doom.

 Chapter 231 - The Islet Mystery 47

    Mr. Te reached for his phone as soon as he was inside the jail warden''s office. It was where he could have the freedom of calling anyone without being conscious of getting caught.


    "Have you checked the site?" Mr. Te asked one of his men whom he assigned to monitor Ryan''s activity on the island.


    "Yes, sir, and there''s no sign of anyone of them surviving," answered the man whose brows creased into a frown. Who would ever survive in that strong water vortex? He couldn''t even imagine how the boat would crush into tiny pieces once it slams into the seabed.


    "That''s good," Mr. Te answered, his thoughts immediately recaptured the full span of the mighty vortex. He who was familiar with the rocky bottoms and the caves underneath the water in this territory, couldn''t doubt his report. There was one time when a yacht capsized in this area, and most of its passengers were no longer found. The search and rescue team then concluded that, perhaps, all of them were trapped into vortices and got sucked under the caves. It was too dangerous for any rescuer to go deeper and their scanner could not detect what''s inside those caves. Snorkelers and divers were even restricted in this area.


    Mr. Te called another number, and this time, a low and husky voice answered. He shook his head as he listened to Joey. This man stayed loyal to them and followed their orders even through phone calls only.


    "Joey, how are your guests?" Joey could now tell that this voice belonged to Mr.Te, and he instantly felt his blood rising into his head. Throughout the years he had been serving them, he had not seen any of his two bosses yet. However, he was already familiar with their voices.


    "They are with me," he answered softly, holding back the desire to cuss and snarl at him. He knew he was worthless against the might of  Mr. Te, but he could still harm him in small ways as a speck of irritating dust to the eye.


    "Keep them there until I tell you what''s the next thing to do," Mr. Te ordered,  his voice a lazy tone. "In a few days, I will be busy with the wedding preparation, so I''ll get back once I''m over with this. Let them enjoy their watery prison."


    "Noted, sir," he replied, throwing a glance at Allie and Ajie, who held their breaths as they listened to him.


    Joey did not talk about what he and Mr. Te discussed. He smiled at them and looked ahead. However, his smile disappeared as he looked into the now opened cove. The water had started subsiding, separating the rocky top border from the water level. It was dark and cold ahead, and his worries for Allie heightened.


    "Let''s bring a water mat so Allie can lie down in it when she gets tired." Having suggested this, he went back inside and grabbed three light water mats. With lights turned off outside the house, they made their way out of the cove, following the course of the Chara channels.


    With the surge of adrenaline and the will to escape, Allie swam fast with the two men with her, resting at intervals when they got tired. All they could see around was total darkness and the only light they could see was the glow of Chara blooms underneath. After several miles of swimming when their strong will to survive was their only propellers, they decided to spread their mats and gather strength for those other miles they had to overcome.cos


    "I, now, understand," Joey broke the silence as their panting subsided. They lay on their stomach to keep their eyes on the glow of Chara blooms while floating snugly on their mats together.


    "What, uncle?" Ajie asked, lifting his head over Allie to look at Joey.


    "I, now, understand why Ryan did not hesitate to help me. Shiela''s medication costs more than a million, not to mention the cost of her rehabilitation."


    "Do you mean Ryan saw her at the hospital?" Allie butted in.


    "I don''t know, but all this time, the salary he gives me is too big for the scope of my assignment. When Shiela decided to venture on her business,  I only borrowed a little from him to add into the savings I had."


    "Did Ryan deducted it from your salary?"


    "No, I even complained, but he said he is increasing my salary."


    Ajie and Allie laughed as they thought about Ryan''s drama all this time.


    "What''s your first job with him?" Ajie asked, wanting to know if Ryan engaged himself in drug trafficking.


    "To look for a pregnant woman. Who would have thought that my first assignment was to look for my daughter?" Joey chuckled, fascinated by the thought of his role back then.


    "And who send you here now?"


    "It was Ryan, but I haven''t got orders yet other than waiting for his call at the hotel."


    "He keeps you here to save Shiela if the need arises," Allie commented.


    Joey stared at Allie, then silently nodded. He got lost in his thoughts until he heard the sound of a boat coming towards them. He jolted from his mat and jumped into the water.


    "Ajie, Allie, dip in, fast! It could be the boss''s men patrolling in the water."


    "Are we caught?" Allie whispered, her sprinting heartbeats choked her airways in a blink of an eye.


    "Perhaps," Ajie seconded as his eyes grew wide the moment he realized that someone from the boat aimed a headlight at them.


    Before they knew it, someone from the boat shouted at Joey. "Joey, how much are these people paying you that you sell your loyalty to them?"


    The three looked at their captors together. There were three of them inside the boat, clad in black coverall suits. Then, through the silence of the night, they heard their simultaneous movements as they pulled the triggers of their guns and aimed it at them. As one of the men raised his gun higher, a voice interrupted. "Wait, let''s inform the boss first."


    Allie''s breaths were already in her throat. The exhaustion in swimming and her intensified fear weakened her knees that she felt like fainting already. If it were not for the buoyancy that Chara channels naturally provide, she would have drowned. Ajie reached out to her and pushed her behind him, shielding her from the men though he knew it could only do little to protect her. His gaze was sharp and alert, and his mind did a quick drill on how to make a lightning-fast escape.


    "What? Joey betrayed us? Throw him together with those other two to the vortex! Let them all join in their fathomless grave," Mr. Te''s voice echoed through the serene surroundings.


    With guns aimed at them, they climbed into the boat. Allie was already sobbing. She knew very well that begging wouldn''t change their abductor''s mind.


    "Kill me on behalf of these two. I don''t believe they are worthy of the boss''s cruelty," Joey demanded as he gazed into one of the men.


    "We are only following orders. Who are you to demand?" yelled the man, his eyes throwing daggers at Joey. They had been disturbed from their sleep when they got the notice that these three had escaped.


    Their arguments heightened as Joey pleaded on behalf of Ajie and Allie, even suggesting to leave them in the water. Anyway, their exhaustion, hunger, and hypothermia would eventually lead them to their death.


    Before anyone of them gave way, the boat stopped, and everyone lay their gazes on the angry whirling of the waters.  The three men jumped and left Ajie, Allie, and Joey on the boat, pushing them afterward into the circling current of the water. The waves of the men''s laughter echoed into the lonely night as the three swirled around until the center of the vortex sucked them down towards their freedom!

 Chapter 232 - The Islet Mystery 48

    They huddled close together when they heard a sound coming from the lift. That part of the underground level where Ryan placed all of them had no room divisions. It consisted only of one large, empty room that Ryan quickly furnished with single beds, couches, and dining table before he left. There were lots of food supplies, even enough to provide them for a month. However, they could not connect to the outside world for fear of being discovered. Even Mr. Dioko''s instruction to the one he placed in charge of negotiating with the fishing company, came through Ryan. Due to his influence in maritime industries, a fishing company agreed to play the part Mr. Dioko required of them, oblivious of the details behind the fishing.


    It had been a week since Ryan left. However, he kept his communication with them, updating each other about the progress of the search for Allie and Ajie. Yet that day, he did not call. He did not know about Joey, Ajie, and Allie''s sudden and unexpected arrival to their hideout.


    As the doorknob twisted open, everyone held their breath. Who could that be? This same question passed silently as they stared at each other, their heartbeats dubbing louder and faster than their breathing. They were not expecting Ryan to come so soon. The wedding preparation would make him busy, not to mention his discreet ways of locating his parents and his son. That did not end there, and he had some plans he could not reveal to anybody as of the moment.


    Everyone broke into sighs and smiles as soon as Ryan''s head popped into the small opening of the door. His gaze fell instantly at Ajie and Allie, who pressed Chloe in between the two of them.


    "Allie, Ajie! How come you''re here?" His surprised gaze changed into joy as soon as Allie stood up and ran to hug him.


    "Ryan, thank you for saving my family!" Allie exclaimed after she pulled away from hugging him. Ajie followed behind, hugging and thanking him as well.


    "Why are you here? I thought it would take you longer," Cherry''s irrelevant question pulled them off from Allie and Ajie''s narration of their mindblowing experience.


    "It''s Shiela. She''s really killing me with her stubborn head!"


    All eyes fell on him, including Joey''s, whose presence was still unnoticed by the host.


    "I did not tell you because I was afraid that if my father''s men succeeded in taking you, he would force you to tell him about Shiela''s whereabouts. On that night, you were taken," he paused to look at Ajie and Allie, "I let her escape through a hired boat, and send her to my place in UAE. I took her personally to the airport to make sure she takes the flight, only to learn today that she escapes," Ryan sighed and dropped himself to the couch, resting the side of his face to his palm where his elbow rested on the armrest.


    Everyone shifted their gaze between Ryan and Joey, curious about how Joey would react in knowing that his boss was in love with her daughter.


    "My head is already splitting into two! How can I move when I am worrying sick again about her safety," he added, closing his eyes afterward.


    "Sir, let me take care of her. Just give me your ideas," Joey stood up from the corner where he sat unnoticed, and Ryan''s eyes flew wide as he heard him.


    "Joey?"


    "Yes, sir. I already know everything. Thank you so much."


    Allie interrupted them, narrating on their behalf their whole experience to Ryan. She told him about their short exile to the house within the cove, their escape via Chara channels, and down to how his dad''s men threw them into the vortex.


    "I thought we would die after the whirling current caught us," Allie''s tears glistened inside her eyes, as she recalled that most frightening moment.


    "I''m sorry, but I''m glad dad made a stupid decision.," he said, smiling, happy that they were safe. "God sees us and guides us through it all. I believe that evil would not prevail forever."


    Ryan then walked toward Joey and hugged him, "I hope you did not hate me for leaving your daughter and your grandson alone."


    "You should have told me earlier."


    "I also did not want to go ahead of Shiela''s plan. I was still finding out some proof of dad''s wickedness."


    _______


    "Miss Yen, I''m sorry. I just can''t stay here waiting for what may happen next."


    Miss Yen held her gaze, wondering what she meant. Throughout the whole week that she was here, she looked emotionally disturbed. Though she won the hearts of the staff and the entire management team easily, earning full respect as Ryan''s wife, she did not look happy.


    "How can I help, Miss Yu?" the general manager whom Ryan trusted Shiela''s care with looked at her with sad eyes. Her failure to convince Shiela to stay made her question her sense of trustworthiness.


    "Let me go, and please don''t tell Ryan about this. It''s for our own good."


    Miss Yen scratched her head. She never expected that her boss''s wife could be so stubborn.


    "I promise, Miss Yen, Ryan would not blame you for my decision. I think I have to tell you the truth. Ryan is going to marry someone else. The only way to stop him is my presence by his side."


    Shiela''s unhappiness convinced Miss Yen. When Atty. Manloza came over to transfer the businesses to Shiela''s name, she found out that she and Ryan were not married yet. However, she also honored Ryan''s instruction to address her as Mrs. Yu without questions.


    Miss Yen accompanied Shiela to the airport. She tried to contact Ryan, but somehow, her calls couldn''t be connected. On the other hand, Shiela took her flight directly from Manila to the hotel where Andrew''s group stayed. The moment she arrived, a local tabloid caught her eyes as soon as she entered her room.


    "Dr. Julliene Sy and Mr. Ryan Paul Te are finally going to tie the knot this coming..."

 Chapter 233 - The Islet Mystery 49

    Shiela did not waste time and she talked to the travel in-charge right away. She booked for an island-hopping package and made an arrangement to go into all the islands without time constraints. She was willing to pay the price, no matter how big. And it did not matter if she had to do it alone, she had to prove her worth. This was all about her son and she believed that somewhere along the way, she would find the link.


    After changing into sleepwear, she walked toward the glass wall across her room and watched the spectacular view of the sunset. Far across her room, shone the golden sun just above the horizon. It cast crimson and orange hues until it hid beneath the hills, painting the skies grey and blending it with black patches, and streaks. The outline of the hills and trees then soon become dark silhouettes, creating a breathtaking portrait of a beautiful sunset.


    Taking in the splendid scene, her gaze bore beyond the hills as the image of Ryan''s islet paradise flashed in her mind. She knew that somewhere behind that hills, he could be there. She also knew that somewhere beneath the waters, sprawled the cove that hid her son and Ryan''s parents.


    ______


    "When is your wedding?" Joey looked straight into Ryan''s eyes and the latter stepped back, not expecting the question.


    "I want to find my son and my parents before the wedding my father sets three weeks from now. That is the only way I can retract. I need the evidence that he is hiding them underneath the water dungeon. That is just one of his sins."


    "Presenting him his sins and using it as an excuse is still not a wise idea. He could kill you for that. From how I see it, you can not get away from the wedding that easily unless your fiancee would also find a way to escape."


    Ryan stared at him as he pondered on his point. He was slacking about his defense should his father know about his plans. Any act against his father''s will would pose a threat against him and Jullien.


    "Forgive me for saying this, sir. You are still too clumsy in planning out for your revenge. Your father is used to this and has men under him. Work into your revenge in a more cunning way. Ride along with the tide and surprise him later."


    When Ryan just stared at him and did not say anything, Joey added. "I know you have plans but it''s more on finding faults to use against him. He already stayed in jail for many years and has already accepted the fact of his lifetime ordeal. Change your strategy and turn the tide against him."


    "Should I work with Jullien?" he asked in a desperate tone. He did not have enough time. Three weeks was never enough to turn the direction of the wind.


    "No, she may turn against you when under pressure. Work with me."


    Ryan got dumbfounded at his suggestion. Joey was not either born to be an assassin but behind his simple suggestion was a brilliance he could use against this warfare.


    "But first, we need to deal with your daughter''s stubbornness. I sent her away but..."


    Joey cut Ryan off. "Her decision is also about you, her future with you and your son. Instead of sparing her from all the pain, let her be your strength. If you truly love my daughter, lay out your plans with her. Who knows her opinion might be the key? Stop treating her as a fragile figurine, she couldn''t have endured the storm."


    Ryan became teary-eyed as more words of wisdom flowed out from Joey''s mouth. "My problem is that,  I no longer know where she is now."


    Joey did not answer him, He gave him a quick stare as he pulled out his phone from his backpack. As soon as the call went through, he turned on the speaker for them to hear.


    "Shiela?"


    "Pa?"


    "Can I have a moment with you? I''m burning with fever and I''m alone," Joey winked at Ryan as everyone around held their breaths.


    "What? Where are you? Why are you calling me just now?" Her scared and worried voice pierced into Ryan''s heart and all he wanted at the moment was to hold her close and comfort her.


    "Just tell me where you are. I can ask my boss to send me to your place." Joey bit his lip and held his breath, praying that Shiela would catch his bait. When after a few moments of silence she began to speak again, he took in a deep breath.


    "I''m at the Amara Hotel and Resort. It''s a bit far away from the city."


    "I know the place. What are you doing there?"


    Without any hesitation, she babbled foolishly. "I am going to scour the whole seabed in this territory and find my son!"


    Ryan gave out a long sigh and picked up his own phone. An expression of relief painted his face though a frown still lingered.


    "Forward me to Miss Anna, please," Ryan spoke into the line with an air of dominance. It was not hard to tell that he knew the hotel staff.


    "Transfer Miss Shiela Ferrer to my suite and assign guards to watch over her. Don''t tell her it''s my order. Just say the room is out of order and as compensation to her discomfort, she needs to transfer into a better room."


    _______


    Shiela was about to lie down in bed when a call from the intercom shattered the silence in her room. The long hours of travel exhausted her and this disturb annoyed her. However, the call did not stop until she heard a knock on the door. She peeped into the hole and saw the receptionist standing outside.


    "Ma''am, I''m so sorry to inform you that this room has a leak in the bathroom. We need to transfer you to the 10th floor as it is the only one available as of now. As compensation for your inconvenience, the management is offering you a fifty percent off for the room rate."


    Shiela shook her head in annoyance but let out a polite smile at the beautiful lady in front of her. The transfer was fast, with the hotel staff taking care of her belongings. It didn''t take her a minute to drift into a deep sleep, only to wake up in the middle of the night finding someone cradling her in his arms.

 Chapter 234 - The Islet Mystery 50

    Ryan docked his yacht a few miles away from Isla Uno, an island that housed one of the MS Sciences Laboratory for years. It was also home to the families of hundreds of planters of Chara blooms, laboratory workers, and the patrollers who guard the safety of Chara plantations. Adjacent to the laboratory was a hidden cave, concealed by restructuring the entrance into an administrator''s building. No one would ever suspect that behind the door of one of the offices, was an entrance to a vast cave where the workers packed the extracts of Chara blooms according to the amount specified for certain flavors of Myrtle Shade creamers. The cave also had tunnels leading to the laboratory and their different hidden exits.


    The inhabitants of the island who lived miles apart from the civilized world made the MS Laboratory their ways of life. Those families who chose to educate their children moved to the towns nearby because the trip back and forth the island was always risky due to unpredictable weather. At times, the people started their trips on sunny weather and calm sea movement, but halfway through the journey, unpredicted storms would suddenly strike, endangering their lives.


    Reaching the shore of the island through a speedboat, he jumped off the boat and strode towards the building. Workers who maintained the cleanliness of the area and some of the farmers who set out early for work greeted him warmly. Unlike Mr. Te, Ryan captured the hearts of the workers due to his cheerful demeanor. He always greeted them and most of the time, mingled with them as he watched them work.


    "It''s too early, aunties, uncles. Why not spend more time in your houses until the sun is high up in the sky? You''ll get sick with that. It''s still so cold."


    "Sir Gerome wouldn''t like it. If he knows we are not doing our job well, he will fire us," answered one of the farmers.


    "As the heir of his businesses, I am also your boss. That means, you must also take my orders. Gather your whole neighborhood to have breakfast with me on the shore."


    The faces of the workers brightened up. They ran to their neighbors, who also passed the message forward. In less than an hour, all of them spread their mats on the shore. Ryan then called some of them to help him with the big pots of food he took from the yacht. Before they started the meal, he stood before the crowd.


    "As dad''s successor, I want you to know that I wish to establish a closer relationship with you, a real family. For many years, you have served us with your sweat and blood, so I want to return the favor. I will increase your salary,  offer a scholarship program for your children, and provide you medical funds whenever you are sick. I will make things right for you. More than anything else, call me whenever you need help."


    The workers cheered and applauded him, the joy that glowed on their faces shone like the morning sun above the sprawling emerald-green water. Nothing could express how happy they felt, having their hard labor finally acknowledged and rewarded. When their squeals and little chaos finally subsided, Ryan continued to speak.


    "Yet, I do not deny the fact that my father won''t be happy to know this. For him, money can buy everything. He doesn''t give emotional value to every sacrifice you make. He is my father and I love him, but it doesn''t mean that I agree on his cruelty. So, will you promise to keep everything between us only?"


    "Yes, sir!" chorused the people, swearing to their hearts that they would give allegiance to the one who gave them worth.


    Then, the district captain stood up, and before he opened his mouth, the corners of his mouth curved into a sob, the flushing of his skin darkened his sunburned skin. He brushed his tears away with his creased and calloused hand, stifling his cries away by gritting his teeth.


    "Sir, for many years, these humble people of yours see oppression in broad daylight. We work like slaves and paid less than what we give. Thanks for giving us hope. Finally, we can see the dawn in our lives. On behalf of my people, I will declare our allegiance to you."


    Ryan did as he promised. He distributed right then their salary increase, covering the past twelve months of their service. He also had their names listed for medical insurances and other health care services. He also promised to erect a school for their younger children and provide dormitories in the town for college students. And at the end of the day, he felt a sense of joy and fulfillment he never experienced in his whole life. Joey was right, and he could now have the full support of all the island dwellers in the search for his lost son and his parents. What he needed was more time,  more time to turn the tide against his father''s dirty scheme.


    _______


    Jullien passed through the guards, and another guard led her to a building outside the main jail. Her brows gathered together as she saw the interior of the building. An elegant living room met her eyes, furnished with expensive furniture. A huge OLED TV screen was flashing images and the sturdy figure of Mr. Te''s back, leaning on the couch, caught her attention. This should not be the life of a drug syndicate leader but needless to ask, she had the answer on what made the difference.


    At the sound of her footsteps, Mr. Te turned to her and his mouth twisted into a welcoming smile. He stood up and met her halfway, hugging her as soon as she was in his reach.


    "Darling, you''re here as you promised. Thank you so much. My friends noticed the nice glow of my skin. So, this means that your new product is so effective." Jullien smiled at his flatteries, but he could never fool her.


    "Really, uncle?" she beamed a bright smile, fooling him as well.


    "Yes, dear. Look at me now," Mr. Te chuckled while tilting his head to show the pinkish glow of his skin.


    "I agree, dad. So, you have to sit down now, and I''ll give you your second dose."


    £¬

 Chapter 235 - The Islet Mystery 51

    aveThe next day, Ryan went back to Isla Uno. All the children on the island had already gathered on the shore the moment his yacht pulled over a few miles away from the shore. Some even rode in their small, wooden boats and met him halfway, their happiness overflowing. Their squeals and waves of laughter echoed through the serene, late afternoon atmosphere. The sun was already closing the horizon, and despite the exhaustion of the day, the children''s energy still seemed to be at its peak.


    "Hi, kids! Gather around, and we will give you your food and toys," Ryan hollered, and the kids moved as fast as a bolt of lightning, squatting close together on the sand, their face gleaming with excitement.


    After placing two boxes on the sand, Ryan came back to the speedboat to gather more. A child sprinted behind him, and when Ryan was about to lift another box, he called out.


    "Sir, may I help?" Ryan got startled, his hands suspended on the air. He looked at the child, and his little act of kindness and the sincerity registering in his tiny, innocent face made him smile.


    "What''s your name, boy?"


    "Yanyan," replied the boy, raising a hand to cover his eyes. Ryan''s smile made him uneasy.


    Ryan paused again from lifting the box and stared at him for a moment. He wondered how it would feel if his parents addressed him this way.


    "It''s so sweet of your parents to name you that way," Ryan commented then gave a pat on his head.


    "Give me the box, sir."


    "No, you''re still a small boy," Shiela''s voice cut him off, and he stared at him, wide-eyed. She stared back at the boy, and her heart sank in seeing his large, torn white-turned-brown shirt, which probably an old shirt of his father. Nevertheless, his handsome features shone out of his ragged clothing and his bronzed hair.


    " I can do it, and I''m strong. I can even carry you in my back, ma''am, so that you won''t get wet," Yanyan replied, his eyes glued at her warmly in anticipation.


    "Thank you, boy, it''s so sweet of you," Shiela chuckled then realized that she might have offended the boy''s feeling for not accepting his kindness. "Just help us distribute the food and toys later."


    Yanyan nodded, and without waiting for them, he swam into the shallow water, and his tiny body moved swiftly and gracefully like a fish.


    Shiela and Ryan distributed the food and toys right away to the children with the help of some parents around. The rest of the parents did not come since the invitation was for their children only, except for those who had children below one year old. Being too excited, the children spread their food in the sand and began eating quietly while the adults distributed the toys.


    "Yan, you may eat your food," one of the parents commented when he saw him on the side, not touching his food. This brought Ryan and Shiela''s attention.


    "Don''t you like the food, boy?" Ryan asked while Shiela just watched and observed him.


    "I''m full, sir," he replied with a sheepish smile then rubbed his abdomen.


    "Yan, just share with Toby. He can''t consume his share, anyway," the parent offered again as he walked over to Yanyan to let him sit beside Toby, his son.


    Shiela''s brows pulled up together in a puzzled look, then asked the parent in particular. "What''s wrong?"


    "Yanyan is just eight years old, but he behaves and thinks like an adult. He won''t eat his food, perhaps because he can''t chew his food while thinking that his parents have none," the parent whispered while casting stolen glances at Yanyan.


    Shiela glanced at Ryan, and the latter also looked back at her, their eyes implying that they felt the same way.


    "Yan, eat your share, and I will give some for your parents. Do you have siblings who are not here now?" Shiela asked.


    Yanyan shook his head and looked down, perhaps ashamed of the special attention given to him.


    "Thank you, ma''am, sir."


    "Were your parents here yesterday?" Ryan asked, moved at the thought of how wonderful they raised their child this way.


    "No, sir."


    Ryan then felt guilty of his carelessness. He didn''t ask yesterday if he missed out on someone or if the list was accurate.


    "His parents no longer work for the Chara plantation, sir," the parent informed them, perhaps, he had read his thoughts through his expression. "But Yanyan does."


    "What?"Shiela and Ryan exclaimed almost simultaneously, horrified at the fact that his father engaged in child labor. Children of his age should be in school, and that was the primary reason why he promised to build a school for them.


    "How many children like him are working here?" Ryan''s voice sharpened in anger at the thought of his father''s another sin.


    "Our children go with us while at work sometimes, but they are not obliged like Yanyan," the parents answered.


    "What do you mean?" Shiela butted in.


    "Yanyan is now the sole provider of his family. His parents are already too old to work on the farm."


    This fact threw a stabbing pain to Shiela and Ryan''s heart. Yanyan was still too young to dip in the water and do the hard labor of planting Chara blooms.


    "Yanyan, from now on, you will not work anymore. Just help your parents in the household chores and be in school as soon as it opens. I''ll pay you even if you don''t have to work."


    The boy flushed, and soon drops of tears fell from his eyes. He then picked up his food and ran towards his boat, which he anchored on the shore.


    Shiela couldn''t help crying with him as she watched his retreating form into his boat. She saw him brushing his tears with his arms and it broke her heart further. Something in his eyes drew him to her, and it reminded her that if only his son lived, he would be as old as he was.

 Chapter 236 - The Islet Mystery 52

    A tropical depression hit the place, making Ryan and Shiela unable to go back to the island for many days. Strong winds caused big waves and travel by boat or yacht was impossible. One night, as Shiela and Ryan strolled on the shore with some other couples or groups, they saw a boy from a distance, selling out something they could not figure out. Some people paused to look at his items while others pushed him away.


    "Neil, the boy seems familiar," Shiela creased his brows, to get a clearer view.


    "Looks like Yanyan," agreed Ryan.


    "Let''s go near him," Shiela suggested but instead of waiting for Ryan''s approval, she pulled his arm and walked ahead.


    "Alright, let''s go. Just walk beside me," Ryan laughed as he watched her at arm''s distance.


    He then placed an arm around her shoulders while keeping their eyes on the boy. As they got closer, they saw the boy approaching a man. They could already hear him this time.


    "Sir, shells, and corals for souvenirs," the boy then showed his items to the man.


    "Boy, where are your parents?" the man scowled, and the boy stepped back in fear.


    "Sir..." the boy could no longer say another word since the man spoke again in a threatening tone.


    "Do you know that selling corals is illegal? I will report you to the police!" roared the man, and the boy ran in fear.


    As the boy ran past them, Ryan and Shiela recognized him and confirmed that he was Yanyan, indeed.


    "Yanyan, stop!"


    Rya and Shiela called out simultaneously but Yanyan did not listen. This made Ryan ran after him until he caught him at the remote part of the shore where wild mangroves grew. Big boulders of rocks sprawled around and Yanyan hid in one of those.


    "Yanyan! Don''t be afraid. It''s me, I''ll protect you," Ryan coaxed when he no longer sensed movement behind the boulders.


    Shiela finally caught up with him and she joined in calling him out.


    "Yanyan, it''s us. Don''t be afraid, we will never harm you."


    When there was still no movement, Shiela called out again. "Yanyan, I would like to buy all your shells and corals. I will use it as house decoration."


    "I''ll just leave the money here then just put the shells and corals when you decide to come out."


    Still, there was no movement. Shiela called out again and said, "Yanyan, I want more of it. Can you add some more? You can also put it here, later."


    A rustle of the mangrove leaves answered her but Yanyan did not come out yet.


    "Yanyan, when I was little, I also sold garlands in church. I wanted to help my father to earn a living. Aside from that, I also gathered firewoods and exchanged them for pads of paper from my teachers. I understand why are you selling so I will never report you to the police."


    Ryan winced as he stared at Shiela. Was she telling the truth or was it only a trick for Yanyan to come out?


    The mangrove leaves rustled again, and slowly, Yanyan''s head popped out. Ryan and Shiela squatted on the sand and waited until he comes near.


    ''Ma''am, you want to buy my shells and corals?" Yanyan asked shyly. He was already wearing an old, black sweater which turned brownish already.


    "Yes!" answered Shiela while picking up a paper bill inside her wallet. "How much is that?"


    Yanyan stared at the money then shook his head, "I''ll just give all these to you. You gave me food and toys so I would also like to give what I have to you."


    Shiela shook her head also, and insisted, "Yanyan, what we gave you were our gifts. Those were not items for selling."


    Yanyan stared at her again and nodded. "Okay, since I will use it to buy rice, I will let you pay half the price."


    Ryan and Shiela wondered how Yanyan learned to count. All the children who remained on Isla Uno did not go to school. And since his parents were already old as what that parent on the island told them, they could never send him to school.


    "Yanyan, are you attending school?" Shiela asked.


    "No, but my parents taught me how to read, write and do the math."


    "Wow! Can we meet them also and thank them for the amazing way they brought you up? We will also talk to them about the offer to let you stop working in Chara plantation."


    "That''s not possible. My parents do not want to see someone," he answered but the glints in his eyes suggested that he got afraid.


    Ryan threw a glance at Shiela, telling her not to insist. He shifted the topic that would make him comfortable.


    "Yanyan, how did you come here. The waves are high and it is not safe to travel by boat," Ryan asked, his curiosity rising higher in every information they got from him.


    "I was already here three days ago," Yanyan answered casually like it was something he enjoyed doing.


    "What? Where do you stay?" Shiela asked, horrified at the thought of him staying out in the cold wind and strong rain.


    "Under the rock, it''s not cold there and the rain can''t get in."


    "You''re not afraid? What about your food?"


    Shiela''s eyes widened as she listened to him. She could never imagine how could an eight-year-old boy like him be so tough and stay out unafraid of the dark. Aside from that, there could be snakes, wild insects, animals, and ghosts.


    Shiela could no longer hold back her tears. Children his age are still dependent upon the adults to take care of them and here he is, alone and fending for himself.


    "Yanyan, can I take care of you? Can I talk to your parents about this?"


    "No!" he shook his head vigorously, "I will never leave them."


    "You will not leave them. We will bring them with us."

 Chapter 237 - The Islet Mystery 53

    Light rain showers started to drizzle, and the wind began to get fiercer. The rustling of the mangroves and the slapping of the waves against the boulders got noisier.


    "Ma''am, sir, it''s about to rain hard. Go now!" Yanyan exclaimed as he stretched his thin arm to feel the drops of the rain.


    Ryan looked up to the dark clouds, then stood up and held out a hand to Shiela. "Yes, we should go,"


    "Hurry up, sir, ma''am. The rain is getting heavier!" Yanyan''s yell floated against the sound of the thunderbolt.


    "Let''s go!"


    Yanyan turned his back on them, and like a flash of lightning, ran and disappeared behind the boulders, leaving Shiela and Ryan dumbfounded for a moment.


    "Yanyan, where are you going?" Ryan hollered, angry flashes starting to light up the skies.


    "Here, in my hideout!"


    "You''re going with us.  Come out. Please, hurry up!" shouted Ryan against the loud sound of the sky''s wrath.


    "No, sir. Just go now."


    Shiela joined this time. "Yanyan, go out now, or we''ll get wet. It''s so cold here, and I am already shivering!"


    "I won''t. Just go," replied Yanyan, his voice echoing against the boulders.


    "No, we can''t leave you here!"


    ''I''m fine here!"


    The rain got heavier while they were still arguing. Having no choice, Ryan and Shiela ran towards the boulder to shield themselves. Yanyan ushered them in with a guilty look, knowing that it was because of him that they also had to hide there with him. Lighting up the place with their phones, Shiela''s heart ached when she saw that even the ground was a mat of irregularly-shaped, sharp-edged rocks. In the dark corners, creeping insects may be lodging there, ready to bite. What if it''s not only insects? What if it would be poisonous snakes?


    Laid at a corner was wide cardboard, the size of a child''s height. Yanyan obviously used it as his mat. Seeing that his guests were not comfortable with the sharp boulder floor, he pulled out the cardboard and handed it to them.


    "Here, ma''am, sir, use this. As soon as the rain stops, go out right away."


    Shiela and Ryan no longer argued with him, but they more moved by his thoughtfulness. The deafening sound of the deluge, the angry slaps of the waves against the rocky shore, and the mighty rolls of thunder made any conversation impossible, so they chose to keep silent. To be able to squat down, Ryan pulled the cardboard in the middle, motioned for Yanyan to come closer and the three of them sat down, listening to the chaos outside.


    "Aren''t we going to get flooded here?" Shiela spoke into Yanyan''s ear who pulled and wrapped his arms around his knees together, placing his head on top.


    Yanyan shook his head without looking at her, leaning the right side of his body against the rock wall afterward. His slumped position a few minutes later suggested that Yanyan fell asleep. Torn by his pitiful figure which children his age should not experience, Shiela gently pulled him close and laid him on her lap.


    A strange feeling rose within her by that simple touch. She couldn''t understand, but she didn''t even mind the stinky smell of the child and the fact that he looked like a beggar. She felt there was something in this boy that drew her affection to him. Perhaps, it was because of pity in seeing that he was too young to stay independent and act like a mature one.


    Yanyan childhood stage wore out even before it blossomed. He should have been enjoying this stage in sports fields, in school, or at playgrounds. He should have engaged in playing any games like hide-and-seek or water sports with other children on Isla Uno. He could have built sandcastles or chase around with them, climb trees, or hunt spiders. Yet, he could not; the hunger and the demands of food and other commodities were in his tender mind.


    Lost in her thoughts, Shiela snapped into reality when she felt him shivering against her body. She stared at him then, in the next moment, ran her hand across his body. Just as she expected, his burning skin seemed to scald against her touch, quickening her heartbeats.


    "Neil, Yanyan has a fever!" Shiela shouted into Ryan''s ear, who drifted into sleep unconsciously.


    Startled, Ryan froze for a moment and stared at Shiela, recollecting his senses. "What did you say?"


    "Yanyan is burning with fever!" Shiela yelled again, clutching Yanyan closer to her body.


    Ryan then reached out and placed the back of his palm at Yanyan''s forehead. A sense of deep worry crept into his heart and suddenly got restless that he could no longer wait when the rain would stop.


    "Let''s get out of here."


    Ryan took a peek outside, and the enveloping darkness met his eyes. Flashes of thunderbolts creating bright streaks against the skies were the only contrast against the pitch-black surroundings. He realized it was still impossible to go out until the rain calms down. He then took off his jacket and wrapped it around the child''s body while Shiela helped him tuck the cloth tighter.


    However, Yanyan''s fever heightened, and Ryan could no longer sit still. His heartbeats accelerated in fear in every passing second. He could not understand why, but at that moment, he felt it was the most frightening stage of his life. It was then he remembered that there were rescue and paramedic team in the hotel.


    At the hotel''s clinic, a few minutes later, the company nurses-on-duty discarded his wet clothes quickly, changed him into a gown and wrapped him with a woolen blanket. Their movements were too fast, and the next thing Ryan and Shiela saw was that Yanyan already had an intravenous line in his arm. They stood at a corner, both dumbfounded with too many worries that they did not notice when the doctor came in. They only realized it when she approached and talked to them.


    "Sir, ma''am, I am afraid that the child may be having a bacterial infection. We don''t have laboratory results yet, but I can tell that because of his malnutrition, his body was not able to fight against the said infection. As you see, his skin, his lips, his conjunctivae are pale, suggesting anemia. And I hope it''s just nutritional anemia."

 Chapter 238 - The Islet Mystery 54

    Yanyan woke up to what he thought as a majestic place. The LED lights scattered on the white ceiling, the soft, white bed, and the thick, maroon curtains greeted his eyes. Wondering if he was still dreaming, he sat up abruptly and saw the intravenous line in his tiny arm. He suddenly got afraid, not knowing what was happening. He looked around, and then his eyes fell on Ryan and Shiela across the room. Ryan was at the edge of the sofa, his head hanged backward on the backrest while Shiela was lying down, her head on Ryan''s lap. They were both asleep, and Yanyan wondered why they were all there.


    A lady in a white scrub suit approached him with a smile. "Yanyan, good morning. How are you feeling now?"


    Yanyan flinched at the sight of a stranger talking to him. He wondered what was going on and why this lady was showing him some kindness. "Yanyan, I am your nurse this morning, and I want to know if you are feeling better than last night or not?"


    Yanyan could not understand what she meant by last night and this morning. What was happening? With a helpless look, he glanced at Ryan and Shiela, who were still sleeping soundly.


    The nurse seemed to have read his expression, so she helped him remember. "Last night, you were out on the shore and got stuck up behind the boulders due to the storm. Then, ma''am and sir there," the nurse paused as she turned her head towards the sleeping couple before she continued, "called for help, and we got you here. You had chills and high fever."


    "What is a nurse?" Yanyan finally opened his mouth to speak, his eyes wide in bewilderment.


    The nurse chuckled and replied, "A nurse is a part of a team who helps in taking care of sick people. And since you are sick, that''s why you and I are here."


    "Is the storm gone already?" Yanyan asked, looking around to find a window.


    The nurse saw his eyes, and she walked to a corner across the foot of the bed and pulled the curtain to the sides, revealing a beautiful sea view outside. The sky was clear with white clouds sailing by above the sparkling, navy blue seawater.


    Yanyan scrambled to his feet, pulling the IV stand abruptly, causing it almost to fall down. The nurse gasped and ran to keep the stand steady, scaring Yanyan away. His eyes flew wide for a moment, then turned apologetic.


    "I''m sorry, ma''am," his voice was quivering.


    The nurse took a deep breath and smiled. "It''s alright. Just be careful next time. You might pull this out," the nurse explained as she traced the tubing from the IV bottle and down to the catheter inserted at the back of his hand.


    "Please take it out," he said, looking at the nurse with begging eyes.


    "No, we give your medicine through this port," said the nurse as she touched the rubber cap of the medicine port.


    "What will happen if I pull it out?" inquired Yanyan, his innocent expression and his being inquisitive amused the nurse.


    "Blood will ooze from your vein!"


    "How to stop the bleeding?" Yanyan stared at her, seemed too afraid to blink.


    The nurse laughed softly, touched the bridge of his nose with her finger and asked, "Why do you ask?"


    "Because I love what you do. Someday, I''ll be going to treat sick people also."


    "Before we completely pull out the cannula, we prepare an absorbent pad then press it against the site to apply pressure until the bleeding stops. As simple as that." The nurse smiled, appreciating his apparent desire to learn despite his young age.


    "What if the bleeding won''t stop?"


    "Just apply more and longer pressure. That''s it."


    Before Yanyan could reply, his eyes caught Ryan and Shiela walking towards him. He pursed his mouth and looked at them, waiting for what they were going to say.


    Yanyan and the nurse did not notice that the sound of the almost falling IV stand woke Shiela and Ryan up. When they heard that Yanyan talked, they did not disturb him and listened instead to their conversation.


    "Good morning, ma''am, sir," Yanyan moved his eyes up to glance at them, but his head was on the floor.


    "Good morning, Yan. How are you?" Shiela and Ryan almost asked simultaneously, and they laughed when they heard themselves.


    "Fine," he answered, still giving them a short peek by moving his eyes up but looked down again quickly.


    "Yanyan, look at us. How do you feel now?"


    Yanyan shook his head, and with a soft and shy voice, he replied, "I''m fine, ma''am, sir, but I am ashamed that I troubled you. I don''t have money to pay for this place, but I will pay you with more shells."


    This moved Ryan and Shiela''s emotions, making them wonder how hard was Yanyan''s situation to force him to become mature and talk this way.


    "Yanyan, we have lots of money, so it''s never a burden to us. We want you to get well as soon as possible. Do you understand?"


    Yanyan nodded, but his expression turned sad.


    "What is that look?" Shiela commented, lifted his chin up, and forced him to look at her.


    Yanyan shook his head again, but his eyes glistened with unshed tears.


    "Why? Are you not feeling well?" Shiela asked worriedly.


    "No, it''s mama and papa. I''m worried about them."


    Ryan sat beside him before he answered, "Today, I''ll go to Isla Uno and talk to your parents."


    Yanyan looked at him, but his empty stares that followed told Ryan that something was bothering him.


    "You don''t want me to talk to your parents?"


    Yanyan shook his head again, and after a few moments of hesitation, he answered, "We don''t live in Isla Uno, and you can''t talk to my parents."


    The nurse, Shiela, and Ryan narrowed their eyes on him, analyzing what he meant.


    "Then where do you live?" the nurse asked further while Ryan and Shiela understood that it was never a good idea to force him to tell.


    Yanyan hurriedly slipped under the cover and pulled the sheet to cover his eyes. Ryan then looked at the nurse, telling her through his eyes to put away the subject.


    "Okay, Yan. We''ll go out for a while to buy food for you. We''ll be back soon."


    Yanyan did not move, but as soon as he heard the sound of the closing door, he pulled down the cover and glanced at the nurse.


    "Why did you hide?"


    "I don''t want them to go to our house," answered Yanyan, placing a finger on top of his nose.


    The nurse laughed and patted his head. "You''re so naughty. What''s your full name?"


    "Yanyan."


    "I know that''s your nickname, and nicknames are not allowed in clinics."


    "Really?" he asked, pulling his brows together as he stared at her.


    "Yes. Didn''t your teacher tell you that in every transaction, you should use your full name?"


    To conceal the truth that he had never gone to any school, Yanyan lied. "Of course, she did."


    "Then what''s your full name so that I can write it here on the chart?"


    "Give me the paper and let me write," he said, thinking that by writing his name, he could make his lies more believable.


    Amused, the nurse handed the patient information sheet and scribbled his name in beautiful strokes.


    Ryan Neil Yu, Jr...


    Note: unedited...

 Chapter 239 - The Islet Mystery 55

    The nurse stared at what Yanyan wrote. Her brows pulled together as she compared it to the informant''s name. According to the incident history, Mr. Ryan Yu and Miss Shiela Ferrer met the boy at the shore while he was selling shells for souvenirs. Then, heavy rain came, and they had no other choice but to shelter themselves under the boulder together with him. It was then that they found out that he had a high fever.


    Mr. Yu also admitted that he met the boy before this on an island where he did voluntary community services, but the meeting was only short. It was because of this meeting that they recognized him while selling island souvenirs.


    However, if the meeting was only short, did Mr. Ryan Yu introduced his complete name to the people? Did he repeat his introduction many times, or did he left a document with his signature on it that this boy imitated his signature? Or, could it be that the people''s admiration on him was so strong that even the children idolized his name?


    "Yanyan, is that really your name?"


    The question itself and the suspicious way the nurse stared at Yanyan confused and made him guilty.


    "Why? I know how to write my name," Yanyan explained, thinking that this lady did not believe his claim. Perhaps, she must have understood that he was only lying about his school.


    The nurse saw his innocence through his eyes and in his childish reaction but to rule out her suspicion, she tried to ask another question.


    "What is the complete name of that "sir" who brought you here?"


    Yanyan scratched his head, and the sudden frown he mused suggested both his impatience and frustration. Most children hate repeated questions. "I don''t know, but we call him ''Sir Ryan''."


    "By the way, I also need your parent''s name, so I could also write it on this paper."


    Yanyan sighed and rolled his eyes, frustrated at the nurse''s obvious doubts at him. He turned abruptly to his side, bouncing his body against the mattress to show his disgust.


    "My parents are... Mr.& Mrs... Albert... Yu," recited Yanyan in a rhythmic and mocking tone, twisting his lips and rolling his eyes, making a derisive face.


    The nurse understood that Yanyan''s behavior was due to his embarrassment that she doubted him.


    Children may tell some lies, but they are weak in carrying non-verbal cues. Their actions would always give them away in the presence of pressure or threat, making them confess readily.


    "Okay. Stay there, and do not move. I''ll just take care of something for a while, and then I''ll be back."


    The nurse thought that this coincidence seemed unusual. She stared at the boy from a distance and concluded that if it were not for his tanned skin, bronzed hair, and his ragged clothes, his built and some facial features could be a little replica of the adult Mr.Yu. The conclusion she drew from the pieces of information she gathered together made her excited and she ran out to find Ryan and Shiela. The thrill of what she thought as discovering a piece of truth gripped her and she couldn''t wait to tell the couple about it. Her impulse topped over her years of training and education that the patient''s safety should be among the first.


    She heard that they were going to get food so she went to the restaurants in the hotel but they were not there. She tried on the coffee shops; perhaps, they loved the coffee better there than at the restaurants.  Of her years of service as a company nurse, she knew that the most crowded place during mornings and siesta hours were always the Myrtle Shade coffee shops.


    She then came panting at the reception desk when she did not find them in any of those food outlets. Only when her air got scarce that she remembered using the phone, instead of draining her strength in running around.


    "What''s wrong?" the lady receptionist exclaimed with her makeup-enlarged eyes expanding.


    "Did you see Sir Ryan and Miss Ferrer here?"


    "I did not."


    "Can you please connect me to him, or, can you please tell him that I need to talk to him?"


    The lady receptionist connected a call to Ryan''s room and Shiela picked it up.


    "Is it about Yanyan? Is he having a fever again? Or, in pain?"  Shiela''s worried voice waved through the line.


    The nurse chuckled and replied, "I think this is good news, ma''am, and yes, it''s about Yanyan."


    "Oh, okay. Sounds wonderful. We are going down in ten minutes. See you then."


    ___


    As soon as the nurse went out, Yanyan jumped out of the bed. With moves as swift as a mighty wind, he unstrapped the splint from his hand, stripped out the adhesive sheet which anchored the IV cannula on his vein, then pull out the catheter. Remembering the instruction from the nurse, he pressed the injection site until it no longer bled.


    He then threw the IV tubing away,  sprinted toward the bathroom and looked around.  To his relief, he saw the window on the upper side of the wall. Without wasting a second, he hurried up and climbed on top of the toilet bowl. A vinyl indentation on the wall that served as a space to place the bathroom user''s things or bags served as a stepping space for Yanyan to peep out. Alas! Just outside the window was the undeveloped, back portion of the hotel and a few meters from it was already the sea. However, the window in the bathroom was so small. It could never fit him no matter how he would mold himself.


    He thought hard; if there''s a will, there''s always away. He ran back to his room and opened another door which is facing the sea. Just as his head popped in, a blinking, red letters at the top of another door  met his eyes.


    EXIT.


    He moved his eyes from left to right, locked the door behind him, then sprinted toward the exit. Pausing in front of the exit door, his heartbeats started to pound louder and quicker. His thoughts went to his parents and to the kindness of the couple. He got confused.


    If he would ran away, sir Ryan would get angry. Perhaps, he would withdraw his offer to let him stop working and help him go to school.


    On the other hand, if he allow them on their home, their lives would be at stake.


    Note: unedited

 Chapter 240 - The Islet Mystery 56

    "Yanyan!" the nurse hollered as she entered the clinic.


    The path she walked seemed like a cotton carpet in her excitement. Her thrill-glazed voice echoed into the walls, but there was no response.


    "Yanyan?" she called out again, opening the door to the clinic. However, the silence was still her sole reply.


    She stuck her head in and looked toward the bed where she left Yanyan, but to her confusion, he was not there. She rushed inside and went directly to the bathroom, but only the scattered toiletries greeted her eyes.


    Her heartbeat started to spike, rousing a gush of fear inside her. She knew she should not leave him and that her announcement could always wait. Yanyan was her only patient at the moment, and there was nothing else that kept her busy except for some other paper works assigned to her.


    With heartbeats now in her throat, she ran toward the other rooms, but Yanyan was neither there. When she finally thought of the exit, only then she realized that her client might have absconded!


    Her sweat started to drip from her temples, and her sudden fear constricted her airways. She ran back toward her desk and contacted the security team. In a few seconds, the guard rushed in to check.


    "What''s going on around here?" Ryan''s voice floated amidst their chaos, startling the nurse further. Hearing his voice, she ran towards the exit, whispering a silent prayer that she would catch the child. However, no matter how she scanned her eyes on every corner, she couldn''t find any sign of him.


    She was still gripped in so much fear when she heard footsteps, and even without turning to see who followed behind, she knew they were her sudden nightmare.


    "Nurse, how did it happen?" the simultaneous questioning voices of Shiela and Ryan scared the soul inside of her.


    Her most dreaded moments had come, where in just a few minutes before that, they were the couple she couldn''t wait to see. She closed her eyes, wishing for a fire to swallow her up, or a sudden supernatural power to make her disappear in front of them!


    The blood draining from her face was enough for Shiela to understand the amount of her fear that she nudged Ryan to calm down. No matter how angry she also was at the moment, they would get nothing if they were going to scare the life out of her. "Let her speak and tell us the whole thing."


    Ryan trembled in suppressed anger, taking deep breaths a couple of times to calm himself down before he addressed her again. "Okay, you may now tell us the truth. Why did you leave him, and how did the child get away?"


    Tears instantly gathered at the corner of her eyes. With shaking knees and quivering lips, she picked up the patient''s information sheet and handed it to them.


    "I got too excited to show this to you that I couldn''t wait. When I came back here, Yanyan had already escaped," explained the nurse, but after she ended her confession, she started to sob.


    Ryan pulled out the sheet of paper, and both his and Shiela''s eyes fell instantly to the child''s name, scribbled in his own penmanship.


    Ryan Neil Yu, Jr...


    They stared at it...and their hearts pounded!


    Shiela could no longer contain the impulse, and she cried out loud. It was too much of a reality, rather than a coincidence.


    "Miss, what else did he say?" Shiela managed to ask in between her sobs, wanting to know more.


    "I also asked who his parents are."


    "And who?" Ryan roared out impatiently, pulling Shiela close to him.


    Jolting from where she stood, she stuttered as she tried to find her answer.


    "He..He... said his parents are Mr.& Mrs. Albert Yu!"


    Ryan and Shiela froze for a while, slowly absorbing the shocking truth in their minds...


    The ragged child who captured their hearts from the very start was the child they had been looking for for so long.


    The boy who impressed them by his brilliance as a tender age was the child stolen from them.


    The child, whose sense of responsibility and independence amazed them, was the child whose heart pumped the same blood that ran into their veins.


    The boy, whose thoughtfulness for the people around him awed them so much, was the child they should have held close to their hearts.


    Yanyan, who suffered a life of too much hardship any child do not deserve, was their son! He was already close to them.


    While still staring into each other''s eyes in utter shock, one of the guard''s yell broke into their train of thoughts.


    "Sir, ma''am, hop in! The video footage showed that the boy rowed in his wooden boat, a few minutes ago. He has not gone far yet!"


    ______


    Jullien smiled as she pushed the last amount of fluid into her soon-father-in-law. She then fished the cover using the tip of the needle to put it back in place. "There, uncle, it''s done!"


    Mr. Te chuckled as he watched Jullien pull out the syringe from his arm. She then folded back the gauze that covered his needleless injection site adaptor and plastered it in place.


    "Darling, thank you so much for sparing your time for my aesthetic benefit. Your father and I are indeed right in our plan. I could never imagine another woman to become my daughter-in-law."


    "It''s my honor, uncle," Jullien replied with a warm smile, impressing the police officers who were watching them.


    "Darling, you always forget. I told you many times to start addressing me as your dad."


    "I''m sorry, dad," Jullien laughed, thrusting her head backward.


    Before Mr. Te could reply, another police officer came in, handing him his phone. He creased his brows and asked, embarrassed by the interruption. "Who''s that?"


    "He said his name is Alvin, your parent''s bodyguard."


    Mr. Te pulled his brows closer in a very puzzled expression, while Jullien concealed a smirk.


    "What? Do I know them?"

 Chapter 241 - The Islet Mystery 57

    Ryan pulled out his phone and walked a few steps away from anyone who might hear him. He already sensed Yanyan''s reluctance in letting them come to his place. A child is never conscious of what his home looked like, except if he was hiding something.


    "Uncle, prepare for a back-up," he instructed, causing Joey a sudden worry."


    "What is it all about?"


    "We are going to rescue your grandson!"


    "What?" Joey''s overwhelmed reply almost broke his eardrum.


    "Let''s talk about it once it''s over."


    "Give me an idea of what you are planning," Joey insisted, stirring a sense of impatience from Ryan, but since Joey had proved himself right for countless times, he sighed and conceded.


    Ryan gave him a brief overview of what was happening and told him that they were about to go after him.  Yanyan was just using a boat while they would go after him using a motor-powered craft.


    "Don''t chase him!" Joey said, explaining right then the pros and cons. "You would scare him away, and if your father has indeed kept them, I am sure he is assigning some people to look after them. The chase may cause an alarm and endanger the chance we have at hand."


    All Ryan and Shiela wanted at the moment were to run after the child and keep him forever. He was already close to them, but fate allowed him again to slip away. Ryan wanted to argue, but he understood Joey''s point.


    "Use the technology in tracking him down. What''s important is that we know that he is alive and that they are within our reach."


    Shiela approached Ryan when she sensed that there was something that troubled him. She couldn''t wait for them to hop into the boat and hug her son finally. She was now willing to go back to UAE wi after this with Yanyan and allow Ryan to settle his issues with Jullien peacefully. She may lose Ryan over to Jullien forever, but what mattered most was that she found her son already.


    "What''s wrong?" she asked impatiently and pulled Ryan by his upper arm toward the boat.


    "We can''t go," Ryan shook his head and looked at her sadly. He knew she couldn''t wait anymore.


    "What?"


    "I am talking to your father, Shiela, and I agree with what he suggests. We can''t go after him out of impulse, or we may lose the chance of having him back."


    Shiela instantly screamed inwardly, embarrassed at his father''s advice. For her, they were only causing delays. "Neil, Yanyan is sick. What if he''ll get worse? The doctor said his body is so weak because of poor nutrition. Don''t listen to papa!"


    Ryan laughed and switched the phone into a loudspeaker mode. Joey was listening throughout her argument with him.


    "Shiela, dear, don''t be impulsive. I know you''re dying to have your son back, but please remember that he is under Mr. Te''s control. We must do careful planning in taking him back."


    Shiela understood their point, but her frustration gripped her so much that she cried hard again. It broke both Ryan and Joey''s heart, but they had to endure a while longer rather than risk the slim chance they were now holding.


    "What do we do now?" Shiela asked, her sobs returning as she spoke.


    "Let''s wait for uncle Joey here."


    ______


    "Alvin? Who are you?" Mr. Te yelled into the phone''s mouthpiece.


    "Sir, I''m one of  the guards you assigned to watch your parents."


    "What about them?" he asked, his impatient tone made Alvin frown.


    "That boy was probably stranded on another island due to the tropical depression, and the elderlies have no more food."


    "It''s not my problem. Go and find ways to feed them."


    Silently enraged by Mr.Te''s indifferent attitude towards him, he bit his lower lip and clenched his fist, trying to control his emotion. He swallowed his pride and thought of appealing for his long-forgotten salary.


    "Sir, if you don''t mind, I am going to ask for my salary again. It has been three months already since I last received my pay."


    "Are you complaining?" came the mocking reply of Mr. Te.


    "No, sir. I''m just asking for your consideration."


    "I hate people who could not wait. Do you understand?"


    Mr. Te dropped the call impolitely, and Arvin felt insulted. He stared at the phone in his hand and pushed it back to his pocket angrily. Just as he pulled out his hand from his pocket, his phone rang again.


    "Alvin, our three children are sick. They need to see a doctor already. It''s been three days since the fever started," Alvin''s wife spoke into the line right away.


    "I have no salary yet. I have asked my boss about it again, but he said I''d just have to wait," explained Alvin softly, but his blood boiled in anger already as he thought about his boss. He had been loyal to him for many years, but he never paid it back even just with an ounce of thoughtfulness for his family.


    "Alvin, go home. We need to talk about this. I know someone whom we can ask for help, but you should be here."


    "Do you want to die? I''m already tired here, should you care to know. Yet, I endure it because I want you all to be safe." Alvin ranted back; his frustration was pressing him down already.


    It''s just the same. Your children and I are  dying anyway."


    _____


    After an hour, Alvin arrived at their house. His wife''s last statement persuaded him to go home.


    "Where are the children?" he asked as soon as he stepped into their bamboo staircase. His wife already saw him while he was still approaching.


    "Sir Ryan ordered to have them brought to the doctor''s clinic. He also left us money to buy food. Aside from that, he paid all your salary and even increased it."


    Alvin took a deep sigh. He already knew that Ryan was the name of his boss'' son.


    "Alvin, sir Ryan told me to keep the matter between us only. He said, if his father gives us your salary, then we should accept it.  He even covered a whole year for your increase."


    Alvin did not know about Ryan''s offer to the whole island dwellers since he stayed as a close watch at the cave where Mr. Te''s parents live. His instruction was clear; never allow the old couple to escape. No stranger should be allowed to get near them, and only the child could go in and out to fend for their basic needs. Failure to do his duty would also mean his family''s death.


    Just as they were talking, someone knocked at the door. Alvin''s wife opened the door and saw their neighbor standing outside. He was their district captain.


    "Alvin, you need to go to the clinic to personally watch your children so that your wife can stay with your youngest child."


    "Cap, how about my job? You know very well the consequence."


    "I''ll take over. Stop worrying and make your family a priority."

 Chapter 242 - The Islet Mystery 58

    Everybody, who lived on other islands close to the hotel, could recognize the hotel''s logo on their boats. Seeing different tourists every day, they no longer raise up their heads to look who was invading their territories. Joey was aware of that, and it''s the reason why he sailed on a speedboat with the most attractive logo on its sides. He also wore the hotel-issued cap while the tour guide who was with him also wore a sweatshirt with the hotel''s logo.


    Not far from him was the fishing boat hired by Mr. Dioko. They moved in separate paths but moving towards the same direction. While he sent Ryan to the island to build rapport with the people, especially with the families of those whom Mr.Te assigned as guards to their parents, he and Mr. Dioko''s men were closing on the place where he kept them.


    Meanwhile, on the island, the district captain gathered the men who worked for Mr. Te for a meeting with Ryan. Rather than going against them on a bloody fight, Joey suggested striking the battle in a  different way. Knowing about Mr. Te''s cruel dealings with them, his unfair and ruthless labor practices, and his indifference toward the people he employed, Joey foresaw the easy loophole to penetrate against Mr. Te''s defenses. Shedding of blood was not necessary; the people''s grudges against Mr. Te was the best weapon to topple him down.


    Standing before the men, Ryan started to talk. Though some people were still apprehensive about his intentions, he had already captured the hearts of the majority. Some of the men still thought that he was just as cruel as his father and that the kindness he showed was just a mask against his underlying intentions.


    "My apologies for not doing something sooner against my father''s cruelty. I know you have suffered long enough, that''s why I already want to put an end to this. I rather want to see every one of you happy and satisfied. I don''t want to regard you as my workers but a family that works with me."


    "How can we be sure that you will be true to what you say?" Murmurs and a little commotion from the crowd followed this question. The majority of them were happy that someone dared to voice this question out. Others were nervous that Ryan might get pissed off for their boldness.


    "I am also a victim like you," Ryan answered, his penetrating gaze silenced their apprehension and replaced it with gasps of curiosity.


    "He robbed my parent''s properties, their only means of living. He took me away from them for many years, then introduced them later as my nannies. A few years ago, he informed me that an earthquake collapsed the cove, and along with it were my parents who were inside the house at that time. The worst is, he also took my son away."


    He robbed his parent''s properties? Does it mean that Mr. Te is not his real parent? These were the questions that popped in their minds as they continued fixing their silent stares at Ryan.


    To note each of their reactions, Ryan slowly moved his eyes through all of them. The sadness in his own eyes and the pain in his tone started to draw their sympathy towards him.


    "Nevertheless," Ryan continued, "I still hold the hope that they are still alive. While I send gifts to children at an orphanage, I always pray that may one of them is my son. While I eat good food in a restaurant or sleep at a comfortable bed, I always wonder if my son gets his meal or if he has a warm place to lie down."


    Another commotion from the crowd erupted as they start talking in low voices to each other. Ryan heard them well, but he chose to pretend he did not. He waited until their interaction subsides before he continued.


    "I have the feeling that my father keeps them in one of these islands. If anyone of you hears about them, please let me know. You would never know how my worries for them  kill me slowly each day."


    Those affectionate words from Ryan''s mouth, coupled with his pained expression, melted their hearts. They could now clearly see the difference between him and Mr. Te, especially after the revelation that he was not his son. Whatever was the full story behind, they could feel that Ryan''s heart was molded after his birth parent''s upbringing.


    Ryan shifted his topic after that and began distributing the new contract he set for them. After everyone affixed their signatures, he then closed the meeting and dismissed them. Sitting behind his desk and leaning on the backrest of his swivel chair, he closed his eyes. He started wondering how long would Joey''s plans take effect. He felt he could no longer wait since he knew Shiela would be pestering around.


    Just as Ryan opened his eyes, and decided to go back to the hotel, a knock on the door grabbed his senses. The moment the door opened, the noise of a crowd in commotion got in. Ryan creased his brows in surprise when he realized that the men did not go home and had gathered themselves outside. The district captain then stepped in and smiled, hesitating on how he would piece up the words he wanted to say. It was clear that he was both a bit apprehensive and excited.


    "Cap, is there a problem?" Ryan asked, shifting his gaze between the captain and the men behind him.


    "No, sir, but we have all agreed to help you. From the very beginning, your father never showed us some kindness, but you are different," said the captain, pausing now and then to look at him and back to his men.


    "Thank you so much," Ryan gave a slight bow and a sincere smile to acknowledge their offer, "I''d be happy to work with you in the soon future."


    "No, sir. Go with us now," said the captain, his grin reaching out to his ears. The men also seconded with a chorus of, "Yes, sir!"


    Soon, all the men hopped into each of their boats and began rowing as a fleet toward a rock island. From a distance, it looked like a deserted place since the shoreline was filled with scattered mangroves and other sea-water resistant trees.

 Chapter 243 - The Islet Mystery 59

    Alvin, the head guard assigned to watch over the properties of Mr. Te in Chara Islands, also held the task in rotating the men to different areas. Despite the cruelty, the unfair policies, and the withdrawn privileges and benefits a worker should have, Alvin remained loyal. His loyalty came from his sincere and personal conviction that he should do his duty as required of him, regardless of what he only got in return. He believed that God in heaven sees everything, and in His own time, He will make everything right and reward him for all the sincerity and dedication he attributed in this job.


    The anger that was slowly building inside his heart due to the oppression of Mr. Te was not enough to wash out his guilt in attempting disloyalty from his duty. He was guilty that his wife got swayed by Ryan''s offer to have their sick children brought to a doctor. He felt guilty for accepting the salary increase behind his employer''s administration. He knew that Ryan was manipulating them behind his father''s back. Though he understood and appreciated Ryan''s generosity and thoughtfulness,  for him, it was still wrong to go against the current administration. In his opinion, Ryan should settle his matters with his father and not do an underground movement against him through his people.


    While the meeting went on, he sat at the back and listened to everybody''s sentiments. He could never refute against them because they were right; they had suffered long enough. The greatest responsibility lay on him, and he could not imagine the retribution he would get from Mr. Te for his betrayal. He then sent a message to Mr. Te''s most trusted bodyguard, the one who carried out his commands to all of them under security management.


    _____


    Meanwhile, in one of the prison buildings...


    "Sir, Dr. Jullien is here again for your another dose," one of the jail guards approached Mr. Te while at the living room, watching his afternoon news broadcast.


    Holding a magazine with his left hand, and a cup of coffee in his right, he glanced up with creased eyebrows. "Dr. Jullien?"


    Before the guard replied, Jullien''s voice interrupted them. "Uncle! How are you?"


    Mr. Te''s brows further creased in a puzzled look. He adjusted his glasses and stared at her before replying. "Forgive this old man, dear. I have already become forgetful lately."


    Jullien let out a sweet smile before she looked down and smirked. "You are just tired, uncle. When we age, we usually have sleeping problems, and lack of sleep can cause grogginess. Thus, we tend to become forgetful."


    "Yes, yes, you are right," Mr. Te nodded before he gave her a quick and confused stare. "How can I help you, my dear?"


    Jullien laughed and bent down to kiss his cheek. "Uncle, I''m here to give you another dose of your anti-aging regimen."


    Mr. Te slapped his forehead and sighed. "Sure, sure, how can I forget. Come here, dear. Sit down beside me."


    Jullien pulled out a chair and placed it across Mr. Te. She then opened the small kit she brought with her and pulled out a set of alcohol swabs. After disinfecting the injection site adaptor and preparing the solution, she looked up smiled at him.


    "Is everything ready, uncle?" Jullien asked before she uncapped the needle and started pushing the plunger of the syringe.


    "Ready for what?" Mr. Te pulled his brows close together again.


    "For the wedding."


    "Wedding?"


    "Yes, uncle. Ryan and mine''s wedding."


    "Ryan?"


    Jullien''s lips curved into a broad grin, but before she replied, a man''s voice broke into their conversation.


    "Sir, I just received a call from Isla Uno to inform you that the people there are rising against you."


    Mr. Te''s head started to ache in his confusion. What were these people talking about? He stared at his bodyguard''s face for a long while, trying to fathom the sense of what he was talking about.


    The bodyguard stared back at him, wondering at his strange reaction. Is he sick?


    After a long while of waiting for his answer, he decided to give him his ideas. "Sir, how about going to Isla Uno with my team to settle the commotion there?"


    With a look of doubt and frustration, Mr. Te replied. He got frustrated with himself that he couldn''t recall even names and places that sounded familiar to him. To avoid further shame and disappointment, he feigned impatience on the matter.


    "Go and do as you please."


    "Sir, do you want me to smite them out in the same way you did with the rest of them?"


    "Definitely."


    "How about the elderlies?"


    Elderlies? Who are they? He stared at the bodyguard and pretended he was thinking about what he would do. To save his pride, he dismissed the topic by deciding for the doom of his parents.


    "Don''t spare anyone. Go now!"


    ______


    Dressed in a black windbreaker, a man''s wig, and a pair of dark sunglasses, Shiela followed Joey through a hotel''s motorboat. She did not follow close, but through her binoculars, she could see him well. Yanyan, who Joey was following, was rowing miles ahead of him. That made her happy and relieved to know that he was safe. Just a few more deep breaths, and she could already have her son. Her secret tailing was only her alternative plan that in case Joey and Ryan would fail, she would be there for a silent rescue.


    Not leaving her eyes from the binoculars, she also saw the fishing boat. The moment Joey would find out where Yanyan and his grandparents were kept, Mr. Dioko''s men were there on standby to back him up. The only obstacles they had were the sensors and security cameras that Mr. Te''s men placed around the premises. Their highest hope lay only on the success of Ryan to win the men''s hearts in their favor.  In that way, they no longer have to execute a bloody fight.


    As Shiela adjusted her binoculars, a hazy outline of boats from two opposite directions caught her eyes. Her heartbeats thumped faster as suspicion grew inside her. Could it be Mr. Te''s men?


    She then noticed that Yanyan turned abruptly around and moved past Joey and the fishing boat. However, Joey''s boat continued moving slowly on his route plan, and so did the fishing boat. She knew that it was part of the plan to conceal their true intentions. If they failed to follow Yanyan this time, then they could go there the next day. What''s more important was that they already have the idea where they were possibly hiding.


    With her heartbeats in her throat, she nudged the boatman who was waiting for her instruction. Pointing to the other side of the island, she yelled against the loud sound of the boat''s engine.


    "Let''s go to the other side!"

 Chapter 244 - The Islet Mystery 60

    Jullien stood before the mannequin that wore her wedding gown. Made from the finest silk fabrics and embellished with 150 carats of diamonds, it was one of the most expensive gowns that not many brides could afford. It flowed like a goddess dress in its off-shoulder design, and a bodice skimmed to accentuate her chest and waistline. Its mermaid cut would enhance her beautiful and flaunting curves in the h.i.p.s and butt.


    Sadly, this gorgeous wedding dress would be worn with a heavy heart. It would have been as perfect as it was if worn for the man she really loved on their wedding day. Yet, on that great day that the world would witness, she would be walking with the man who loved somebody else, and her heart would be screaming for the one she loved. As her fingers traced the soft fabric, big drops of tears flowed in an endless thread from her eyes. Not long after her silent grieving, her shoulders rocked back and forth as she progressed into a bawl.


    A tap on her shoulder alerted her to the fact that someone came in. She didn''t need to turn her head to know who was there. Only her parents would dare to get inside her room without invitation. Their house helps would only come if summoned.


    "Dear, what are those tears for?" a man''s voice floated into her ear.


    That voice penetrated her heart and stirred the sense of humiliation she kept inside for so long. Instead of answering, she cried harder until her mom guided her to sit on a couch. They gathered together and waited until she would calm down and speak up.


    "Tell us, dear, whatever it is that bothers you. We are willing to listen," assured Jullien''s mom as she pulled her daughter to lean on her shoulder.


    "I want to die, mom, dad," replied Jullien in between her sobs, "anyway, both of you wish for it, do you?"


    "Jullien! What are you saying?" snarled Jullien''s dad, angry for her disrespectfully accusing them. Never in their whole lives had they heard her speaking against them.


    "Don''t you, dad, mom?" Jullien retorted, looking straight without fear into their eyes with a soul-piercing look. "You push me to marry the man I can only love as a mere childhood friend. You never even once asked me how I feel. You never even asked if I am happy with your plans. You always say it''s for my own good, but in reality, it''s for your self-interest."


    Jullien''s parents stared at each other as if the truth of hurting their only child just occurred to them. If Jullien wanted to kill herself, she could; she''s a chemist after all. Jullien was always an obedient child, and their wealth never spoiled her. She never demanded anything, even those fad, and fashion that women at her age desired so much.


    "I''d rather die than go for a loveless marriage. Anyone wouldn''t jump for joy in sleeping with someone whose thoughts are on someone else," murmured Jullien as she sobbed harder.


    "What do you mean? Does Ryan betray you? How could he?" roared Jullien''s dad, thinking that Ryan was having an affair with another woman.


    Jullien shook her head in disbelief. How could his dad be so insensitive? Though she had never once complained, but it did not mean she agreed on every plan they had for her. Though she was part of the blame for not voicing out her protests earlier, she felt it was pointless against the cruelty of Mr. Te. And she knew very well that whatever Mr. Te said, her parents were like puppets, ever ready to comply. She was afraid, not for herself, but in the anger of Mr. Te against her parents.


    "Dad, it''s not about Ryan only. He, too, suffers so much about this decision. I just know recently that his dad took away his son from him. Where are your hearts? Do you still have a conscience?"


    Jullien poured out his anger and humiliation without caring anymore if that would drive her parents mad. She already had alternative plans; one for Mr. Te, and the other one for herself. If her plan for Mr. Te would not work out, though she could already foresee her success, she would carry out her second move. If it''s not Mr. Te, then it would be her; either one of them should see death.


    She began to tell them what she knew about Mr. Te, even about the story of Ryan and Shiela that Andy just disclosed to her. Her parents were not oblivious to the evil practices of their friend but to hurt Ryan and his parents, and now his grandson, was already too much for their conscience to keep.


    Jullien''s mom hugged her tight. She knew how the truth about Ryan''s love for Shiela hurt her daughter. She rubbed her back and cried with her, angry that Jullien kept her pain to herself.


    "I''m sorry, dear. We are not villains in your life. You are our only princess, and you are precious to our eyes."


    Jullien''s mom then looked up to her husband and demanded. "Find a way to cancel the wedding!" Then she held Shiela''s shoulders at arm''s length and said, "We will refund the expenses for your wedding and I don''t care if this will affect our partnership."


    Jullien heaved out a sigh and held her mom''s gaze for a while, taking the courage to speak up. As if her mom understood that she wanted to say something, she urged her to confess.


    "You are already wrong for keeping so many things to yourself. Now, speak up." Her father also seconded, and so she got the courage to dip entirely into the water, now that she is drenched.


    "Mom, Dad, I still wish to keep the gown, not for Ryan, but Andy..."


    She then confessed her relationship with Andy, which started when they were yet in high school until they both took up the same degree in college. She also told them that Andy worked for them in the lab and that they had been living together for so many years. She also confessed that he secretly let her drink the antidote every time she overdose herself with the Chara blooms.


    "Where is he now?" Jullien''s dad asked; he could not seem to fathom the pain of knowing that the woman he loved would marry someone else.


    "I broke up with him two weeks ago, before I came home to prepare for the wedding."


    Her parent''s eyes widened, their faces reflecting an expression of massive shock.


    "And what did he do to stop you?"


    "He sets me free. He completely understands me, dad."


    "And what did you do?" Jullien''s dad got so horrified. If it ever happened to his wife, he couldn''t imagine himself breathing anymore.


    "I did not stop him, dad, until I can prove myself to him."


    "What is your plan, dear?" asked her mom, wondering what was in her mind.


    "I am killing uncle Gerome slowly," she laughed, her mirth gleaming in her eyes.


    "What?" her parents chorused, too terrified that their heartbeats stuck in their throats.


    Jullien continued to laugh until her tears came streaming down her lovely face. "I really do not kill him. The anti-aging regimen I give him every day has a high dose of Chara blooms, which could cause him irreversible amnesia if not given the antidote."


    Jullien then took a deep breath, her smile disappearing in her lips. "I just give him back the doses he gave to Shiela years ago."

 Chapter 245 - The Islet Mystery 61

    Yanyan saw the warning lights beaming near the islet where they lived. It was the warning signal that would alarm them whenever the guards observed something threatening or suspicious coming into their territory. Whenever the light was on, he would take the hidden entrance to their hideout. Seeing that the alarm at the moment was at their main entrance, he quickly turned around to make it to the back. The guards oriented him to this sign, and at this tender age, he understood that Mr. Te hid them from an enemy. His grandparents may not have explained to him the details; all he knew was that he should take a detour whenever the pulsing light blaze on.


    Today, it wasn''t only the light giving a hazard warning but the fleet of boats coming in his direction. It never happened before that a fleet would go together to their place except for some cases where the search and rescue operation team operate in their area. During such times, the guards wouldn''t turn the alarm light on. The number of boats alone warned him to make a brilliant move.


    Yanyan grew up with his grandparents inside the cave on a rocky and uninhabited islet. Nobody else chose to live there because of two essential factors. It lacked drinking water sources, and the soil is sandy, disabling crops or vegetables to thrive. However, the guards built a hut outside the cave''s entrance as their guardhouse.


    They used to live in a beautiful house inside a cove, but when Ryan returned to the Philippines and bought an islet close to their place, Mr. Te hid them in this place. The location of this islet allowed the guards to look out on any invaders coming to their territory because they were isolated. On a map, the entire area shaped like a tree; the other islets formed the branches and foliage while their hideout was at the root part. Behind them was the vast expanse of the sea leading to the Pacific Ocean.


    As Ryan and the men approached the place, the district captain saw the alarm light and understood at once that something was not right. No one except the guards who worked alongside Mr. Te and the island guards would turn it on. Since none of the men from Isla Uno could probably do it because they were all here with him, it could only mean one thing. Someone betrayed them, causing this unannounced arrival of Mr. Te''s men. At this time of the day, Mr. Te''s men outside this territory would seldom come. They preferred coming at dawn or during night time.


    He glanced up ahead, and his eyes fell on Alvin. His steady posture looking at the light was a contrast to the reaction of the rest of the men who suddenly became restless. They stopped rowing and looked at each other, passing on the message silently that someone must have informed the head guard about their plan.


    Before anyone of them made a move, the head guard and his men lined up on the edge of the islet across them, zooming an intense light to let them know they lost their cause. Then a voice sounded from a megaphone, causing a chill to run down their spines.


    "Everyone of you knows that the management will not forgive any move against them," announced the head guard with a loud and threatening voice.


    Most of the men cringed in fear, thinking that the next thing would happen would be the raining of bullets against them. Though the lush mangroves hid the team from their view, they could tell that in their hands were riffles or pistols as they stood alert against their possible moves.


    The district captain responded quickly by raising his arms in surrender, and the rest of the men followed. Yet, before anyone could return to their senses, the captain''s voice floated into the air.


    "Sir, forgive me for voicing out my thoughts, but please allow me to ask. What makes you think that we go against the management?" dared the captain in straight and non-faltering gaze. His voice was as loud as the guard''s on a megaphone.


    "How dare you ask me? You know what you are doing behind our back!"


    "You know we are doing our job far better than you expect because our job has become our way of life. We work like we have no tomorrow, and we work like we don''t own our lives. What''s wrong with that?"


    "Captain, how nice of you. You don''t need to speak like a fool because you know what I mean."


    "And what exactly do you mean? Forgive our minds that become dull already due to lack of rest and food. Reminding our boss about our salary would help us quicken our minds."


    The men couldn''t help it but laugh to themselves despite their fear. The indirect insult the captain threw proved that they indeed started defying against their long-time oppressor. After a few more heated exchanges, which resulted in the c.o.c.king of their hand-held guns, Ryan made a move.


    "Stop if you still want to hold on to your dear life!" Ryan yelled out, and a sound of a warning gunshot coming from the fishing boat nearby shattered their ears.


    All of them turned to the fishing boat, and to their great horror, they saw a troop of armed men pointing their guns toward the head guard and his team.


    "Eyes here, everyone!" announced someone from the fishing boat. "Mr. Te''s activities have been under our surveillance for quite a long time now. I''m giving you a chance for a peaceful talk according to the request of Mr. Yu. If you are not cooperating, then you know the consequence."


    The head guard and his team saw that they were outnumbered. They also knew that their resources were nothing against the high- powered explosives and gadgets these police officers may have brought with them. Should they fight back, they knew that their chance of survival was feeble. They also could not assure themselves that whatever may happen, their families would be cared for by Mr. Te''s administration. They admitted to themselves that the daring claims of the island captain awhile ago were, after all, valid. He and his men, too, had long suffered the same negligence from the administration. And that was, of course, under the order of Mr. Te. They stayed, not because they got special treatment but because they all feared him.


    "Call boss right now!" one of the head guard''s men urged him.


    The head guard gave him a quick stare before pulling out his phone and riveting back his eyes towards the fishing boat. He was a bit hesitant but nevertheless, he scrolled down his contact list with rapid shifts of his gaze. He then called him up, and after a few rings, Mr. Te answered.


    "Sir, the surveillance team is here. What shall we do?"


    "What do you say? Who''s this?"


    The head guard sighed and felt frustrated. He already noticed these changes in Mr. Te before he and his team decided to fly here.


    "Sir, this is Marco, you''re head bodyguard. I am here on the island where you keep your parents. I came here because..."


    "What? Who is Marco? Boy, don''t waste my time if you are bored!" yelled Mr. Te, cutting the head guard off in his mid-sentence and dropping his call right after, leaving him hanging his mouth open.

 Chapter 246 - The Islet Mystery 62

    Still lost in anger and frustration, Marco, the head guard, looked up and found the armed men coming up to the islet. With guns aimed at them, he and his men raised both their hands as a sign of surrender. Ryan and the island guards followed, and he even saw the guard staring at his phone.


    "What does my father say?" Ryan asked, wondering how his father reacted to the news.


    Marco gave him a quick stare before stuttering a reply. "He-he doesn''t recognize me anymore and even hang up on me."


    "He doesn''t recognize you? That''s weird. How long have you served him?" Ryan replied with a scornful mirth. Still oblivious about his father''s dementia, he took this as a bait to gauge their stand.


    "I notice this slow change on him a few days ago. You should let him see a doctor," Marco suggested, as finally, he lifted his eyes to look at him. He knew Ryan was there from the beginning, but he ignored him, knowing his father''s loathing on him. He also knew that despite his father''s hatred, he was his only son, and as expected, all that Mr. Te had, would go to him. And he also expected that next to his father, he would be their coming boss.


    "If that''s the case, my father is no longer capable of running his business, so it is only fair if you also give your allegiance to me as his heir."


    Marco did not reply. He remained looking down, waiting for what more he had to say.


    "I want an absolute change in the administration. I want to stop all the oppression, the illegal transactions, and all the faulty practices under my father''s governance. If you don''t want this kind of administration, you are free to go."


    The rest of Marco''s men looked up at him, wondering if he was true to what he said. They had been working under his father for many years, and a change of the administration sounded unrealistic. Ryan could not blame their skepticism; they had survived too long under his father''s wicked and cruel dominance.


    Ryan started to lay out some of his father''s faults that he wanted to correct. He also pointed out some of his abusive strategies in dealing with projects, or with the people working for him. And lastly, his cruelty against the people who did wrong at him.


    "If you agree to my plans, show me your support by releasing to me the two old people and the child you keep in this place."


    A sudden commotion rose among them as they began discussing among themselves the pros and cons of each situation. Ryan, as well as the police officers, listened to them as they agreed or argued to each thought they brought up.


    A few minutes later, Alvin stepped forward and spoke up his concern. "Sir, how can you assure us of our safety? While your father lives, he still deserves our loyalty because we pledged it to him. We are afraid of what he can do against us."


    Ryan cleared his throat before he replied to his anxious audience whose eyes were glued on him.


    "Give me more time to settle things out before I take full control on the rein. Who doesn''t want to end their suffering? Who doesn''t want a better environment where everyone is free and happy? Who doesn''t want a change in the administration where everything would be in its proper place?"


    Ryan''s word pierced into their hearts, causing the awakening of their self-pity for being in the bondage for so long


    ______


    Yanyan stuck out his ear, and he heard the explosion. He further shivered in fear when he looked out and saw that aside from the guards c.o.c.king their weapons, he saw those armed men on the fishing boat. He ran fast to his grandparents and, with quivering lips and trembling knees, relayed to them what was happening outside.


    "Ma, Pa, let''s get out of here. I have discovered an exit which the guards don''t know yet!"


    "Where do we go?" Yanyan''s grandmother asked, her heart racing also in fear.


    "I''ll bring you to my friends. I know where they live!" Yanyan replied, his eyes glowing in the dark. He put off the kerosene-lit lamp the moment he heard the chaos outside.


    "Yes, Ma. He and his wife even asked me to visit you. They said they want to help us and even offered to send me to school."


    "Really? Just when did you meet these friends of yours?" asked Yanyan''s grandfather, whose tears flowed instantly at the sound of hope he heard from his grandson.


    "They visited Isla Uno. Do you still remember the food I brought you last week? They gave it to me!"


    Yanyan''s grandmother reached out her hands and grasped her grandson''s face. "Son, whoever they are, accept their offer. Go with them if you see they are sincere. We want you to get out of this place. We would be happy to see you in school someday."


    "Really, Ma? You want me to get away from you? Who will bring you food? Who will take care of you?"


    "Just tell your friend to help us get away from here and bring us to an institution that will take care of old people," Yanyan''s grandfather replied, relishing on the tiny hope Yanyan shed on them.


    "Okay, Pa. Let''s hurry up while the guards are distracted now. I''ll bring you to Sir Ryan."


    "What do you say?" the elderlies asked in chorus, startling Yanyan.


    "Yes, Ma, Pa. His name is Sir Ryan, and his wife''s name is Ma''am Shiela!"


    The elderlies froze for a moment as they stared at each other in the dark. Lost for word, the old woman trembled while an idea spurted on his husband''s mind.


    "Boy, hurry up! Don''t wait for us. Go now and find them. Tell them we are alive. They are your parents. They must be looking for you," urged Yanyan''s grandpa, his voice now shaking for joy, followed by an uncontrollable sob.


    Yanyan got dumbfounded at the news. He stared at them in disbelief as many questions floated in his young mind.


    "Yanyan, let''s talk about all these next time. Go now and find your parents!"


    Yanyan moved and began to run, propelled by his grandparent''s command. Yet, while he was running, his thoughts were on the old couple. What if the guards outside do harm to them? What if the guards take them away and that he would not see them again?

 Chapter 247 - The Islet Mystery 63

    Marco threw Alvin a glance as he saw that all of their men have decided to support the new administration as offered by Ryan. He could never blame any one of them for cutting their allegiance to their abusive master. They had families to feed, and Mr. Te never considered the urgency of their needs. He didn''t even think much about their welfare whenever he assigned them on some tasks. For him, they were like robots, acting on his every demand.


    Alvin also gazed back at him, trying to make non-verbal communication with him. He wanted to know his decision, being the most trusted bodyguard Mr. Te had kept for years. While Mr. Te lives, he still held the full command. What if Mr. Te would learn about their betrayal? What would happen to them and their families? Even if he understood his fellow guard''s sentiments, as well as Ryan''s motive, joining Ryan''s cause, was still an act of betrayal. And this further made him guilty.


    "It''s getting late, and I think I have given you enough time to decide. If you deny me of your support, it''s fine. Just go and leave. Yet, if you choose to stand beside me from now on, show it to me by leading the way towards the elderlies'' hideout."


    The police officers quickly positioned themselves, c.o.c.king their pistols and rifles ready. Marco and Alvin exchanged glances quickly, both wanting to know each other''s stand. Casting another glance at Marco, he gestured the island guards to go forward first while he stood at the side with an alert mind and eyes. He got worried that Marco still held Mr. Te''s loyalty and that he and his men would fire on them. As the last guard stepped away from him, Alvin turned his back on them and followed the others. Being in charge of keeping Ryan''s parents, he and his men should be the ones to get them without the need for an order.


    Marco''s mind was battling deep inside. Mr. Te kept him ever since he was young. He had risked his life for many years and had accepted the fact that his life hanged on the line every day and every time he was on a task. Mr. Te placed his trust on him for all the years he was in jail and entrusted him with all the operations and transactions. All of a sudden, he felt guilty. Mr. Te may not be a good boss, but he chose to trust him over many others who were also capable of protecting him and his cause. The day he accepted the job was the day he dedicated his life for him, to protect him and to die for him. He already knew what kind of a person Mr. Te was, and in this kind of job, he had accepted him for what he was.


    With a move like a bolt of lightning, he raised his rifle, pulled the trigger and ran his firing weapon against the police officers who stood alert across him. Startled by Marco''s action, his men followed him also and fired blindly at the officers before running away. One thing was in their minds- Marco committed suicide in defense of his boss. He knew he only had a slim chance of escaping, knowing that the police officers enclosed them already


    However, the police officers already read his shifting decision. They understood the message in his eyes as he moved his gaze between Alvin and the men. Before a single bullet could hit one of them, they already dropped to the ground and pushed Ryan to dive with them. Faster than a blink of an eye, they aimed their guns up and fired against Marco and his men, hitting them first. However, those who managed to run away still turned to them and continued to fire, forcing the police officers to shot them until they all fell to the ground.


    After the exchanges of bullets, the police understood that this was a stupid move, but Marco''s act of loyalty. With several years of training and experience, Marco had become excellent and cunning in his field. They knew he could see beyond and would never have done this silly act. But because of loyalty and dedication, he chose to die. They felt sad for him for ending his life prematurely before giving himself a chance to live a better life.


    Alvin and his men froze as they turned to see the succession of gunshots. They saw how Marco and his men fell, and they got chilled to the bones. They were only island dwellers who had no proper training except for some sessions Marco conducted for them.


    Before anyone of them made a move, one of the police officers spoke to them."If you still hold your loyalty to Mr. Te, I''m giving you this last chance. Walk away from where you stand and go home. You know very well that keeping a child and an old couple here is a crime."


    The island guards looked at each other and then to Alvin. They saw his hesitations, and suddenly they got afraid that he would also do what Marco and his men did. Then, the captain broke the silence.


    "Alvin, if you love your family more than the criminal who exiled and maltreated his parents and his grandson, then decide now. If you need more time to think, go home first. As for me and the rest of us, we choose better lives under fair and better administration."


    The captain pulled out his gun and aimed it at him while the rest did the same. The two teams of armed men now cornered him. The captain who witnessed Alvin''s sincerity felt sad for him. He knew Alvin was not a bad person; he was just loyal and faithful to his promise.


    "Alvin, don''t make a stupid decision. Think of your children who need you. Go now and think more about this."


    With more advice from other men, Alvin dropped down his gun and slowly walked away. The island guards then moved quickly towards the cave. Ryan followed them, accompanied by some of the men to protect him.


    _____


    Focusing her binoculars where she saw Yanyan stepping out of his boat, she waited until Yanyan disappeared. She looked around, and when she saw that they were alone, she asked the boatman to come closer to the island. However, when they were a few meters away, she looked through her binoculars and saw men standing on the area where Yanyan passed through. In their hands were rifles aimed at them. Shiela''s knees started to shake, but the boatman was quick to wave a flag with the hotel''s logo.

 Chapter 248 - The Islet Mystery 64

    To avoid suspicion, the boatman pulled closer to the shore. Shiela also got the chance to look closer at the men who posted in the area. With dark and big glasses that covered half of her face and a hat with large visor, she was sure these men could not recognize her.


    "Is this islet a tourist destination also?" one of the men yelled.


    "Everywhere could be if the guest wants it," the boatman replied, restarting the engine afterward.


    Shiela and the boatman continued to move over to the other side, far away from where those men were standing. As Shiela was focusing her gaze at the islet through her binoculars, a wooden boat under a tree caught her attention. Though her eyes never left Yanyan when he jumped off from his boat and that she could still tell where he left it, she was sure that this boat was similar to his. It gave her an idea that perhaps, this could also be another route to where Yanyan and his grandparents lived.


    Shiela got excited and quickly urged the boatman to go ashore. Once they were a few feet from the stretch of sand, she jumped off and sprinted towards the tree where she spotted the boat.


    "This boat is similar to the one that the boy used," the boatman''s voice jolted her off to her feet. Shiela didn''t expect that he would follow her.


    "Yes, it is. Why do you think he left it here? It might get lost. Aside from that, this place is so far from where he dropped off."


    "There''s only one explanation to that. Somewhere around could be another shortcut to where he lives."


    "I want to know where," she said, surprising the boatman. Why does a shabby island boy catch the interest of this beautiful and elegant woman, the boatman thought.


    "I lost my son in one of these islands," Shiela answered, her desire and excitement prompted her to reveal the truth.


    "What? And do you think he is your son?" the boatman''s eyes grew large, a sense of thrill rose within him. That boy was the one he always saw at the shore within the hotel''s vicinity, selling shells and corals


    "He is. I just found it out," Shiela answered without looking at him, her eyes were searching for a path around the area.


    Despite the heat of the sun, a chilly sensation ran through the boatman''s skin. He already understood why Shiela got the courage to explore in all the islets surrounding the hotel.


    Out of the blue, the boatman''s gaze fell on the rocky wall behind the tree. He strode towards it, and just as he expected, at the base of that rock, was a downward path concealed by the thick shrubs.


    "Ma''am, come over here!" he shouted, urging Shiela to come and see it for herself.


    Shiela ran towards him, and a pulse of excitement engulfed her. She separated the shrubs aside and descended right away through the path, which led to a cave.


    "Ma''am, wait! It could be dangerous there. We should have a backup."


    "I can''t wait. I have the feeling that my son is inside," she protested, the joy of the discovery overwhelmed her.


    ''Ma''am, I understand your feeling, but you should make a wise move, or else,  you will lose your chance. It could also cost your life since this is a cave. There might be wild animals or poisonous snakes inside."


    The truth behind the boatman''s words hit her. He was right, she should hold back the impulse and do wise steps, or everything would be futile. Sighing in frustration, she retraced her steps and pulled out her phone, asking for her father''s assistance.


    "Shiela, you''re there again! Why must you make a risky move? Why don''t you trust Ryan and me?" scolded her father the moment she informed her about everything she did.


    "Pa, I can''t wait. Don''t scold me now. If I didn''t do this, I wouldn''t have found this lead. Just hurry up and come."


    "Alright! Wait for me and be sure to behave," came his father''s reply, his voice quivering in anger.


    ______


    Yanyan led her grandparents over a secret passageway he discovered. He was sure the island guards did not know about this yet. He had been using this exit many times, every time he sneaked away to sell his shells and corals. He was only allowed to go out within the guard''s schedule and not on his preferred time.


    Once he succeeded in helping her grandparents slip into a small rocky passage that only a slim body could fit, he rolled over a small rock to cover half the opening. In this way, the guards wouldn''t suspect that they passed through this inlet. With only a kerosene-lit lamp to light their way,  they trudged slowly over slippery and rocky paths towards the exit of the cave.


    Yanyan had to hold their arms one at a time in slippery areas, making their progress slow. Now and then, he also paused to throw crushed leaves of a wild plant that his grandparents identified as their protection against poisonous insects or snakes. It''s strong and pungent smell drove these cave threats away, allowing them to stay safe inside for years. Whether or not the potency of these leaves was real, never did anyone of them suffered a bite anyway.


    However, their struggles were not only at their slow pace but also in steep paths. Yanyan had to pull them one by one while his other hand groped for support from a shrub or muddy rocks. He was only a child and was sick at the moment, but his adrenaline nevertheless powered him on. The limits of their lamp against the black-as-night surroundings worsened their difficulties. Yet, the three of them didn''t embrace discouragement. No matter how hard it was for them, they held on to the hope that somewhere at the end of this cave was their freedom from bondage.


    Yanyan squealed in excitement the moment he saw the rays of light penetrating the cave''s opening. He didn''t mind his gasps for breath, as exhaustion started to wear him away. He already felt a burning heat coursing throughout his body, but because of his determination, he ignored it. They were already close to freedom!


    "Ma, Pa, stay here. I''ll check first if it is safe for us to go out. I also have to prepare the boat," Yanyan said as he guided them to sit in one of the rocks below the cave opening.


    The old couple chuckled as they relished the overwhelming feeling of release and near salvation. "Be careful, boy! Be back right away."


    "I will!" yelled Yanyan over his shoulder as he started to sprint the short distance towards the cave''s inlet.


    With heart pounding because of joy and excitement, he climbed fast over the last rocky obstacle. His eyes then beamed in happiness as he finally saw the wild shrub-covered path. He ran through it until he reached the rocky wall of the cave''s opening. While his one hand grasped for the wall to support himself as he steadied his breath, his heartbeats ran a mile per minute as his eyes fell on a woman sitting down near his boat. She stared at her and right, it was her, her mother! His heart thumped louder and louder as he looked at her with great longing in his tender heart.


    "Ma''am Shiela," Yanyan called out after some moments of hesitation, but suddenly, his vision blurred, and his surroundings turned black.

 Chapter 249 - The Islet Mystery 65

    The island guards proceeded to the cave with hearts pounding against their chests. They were afraid that like Marco, Alvin would also take suicide and suddenly come back to rain bullets on them. However, Ryan was with them, and so were most of the police officers. Yet, what worried them the most was that anything could happen. What if some of Marco''s men posted on the exit of the cave?


    Turning on their flashlights, they made their way inside the cave. Ivory-colored and crystal-clear stalactites and stalagmites greeted them. Dry ground spread before them, but wild plants on pots spread at all corners. The sound of squealing bats pierced into their ears as well as the thuds of their bodies hitting the rocky walls broke now and then.


    Once they reached a bamboo shack, Ryan knew they reached his parent''s home. Lumps formed in his throats as he tried to hold back his tears. He lived in the comforts of beautiful houses and expensive hotel suites, but his son and his parents suffered in this stinky place, deprived of comfort and good food. The smell of damp soil and scattering bat droppings and urine almost turned his insides up. His hatred at Mr. Te now escalated further that he couldn''t wait to file another case against him, grabbing his chance for parole.


    "Sir, they are not here!" spoke the captain who opened the shack. "It''s impossible because the old couple can hardly walk."


    "How about Yanyan?" Ryan asked, and his knees started to tremble. A sense of panic began to spread within him.


    "No worries for Yanyan because he comes and goes out of this cave."


    "But the three of them not here is already suspicious," one of the guards voiced out his fear, making Ryan''s worries leap higher.


    "Relax, you''re making Sir Ryan worry. Let''s trace them down to the exit," the captain scolded as he glanced up and saw Ryan''s terrified expression.


    "Perhaps, Yanyan got afraid of the shooting and he took them out."


    "Could be," another seconded.


    The team then split themselves into groups. One followed the trail towards the exit, another remained on the main entrance, and others took their boats to get to the other side faster.


    _______


    "He fainted, ma''am!" the boatman yelled, squatting the next second to pick the boy up in his arms.


    Shiela got scared and began to cry. "It''s because he is sick. We had him treated at the clinic, but he escaped."


    "Yes, ma''am, he is burning with fever," the boatman confirmed as he winced at the scalding heat of the boy''s body.


    "Quick, please, I beg you. Let''s bring him back to the clinic," begged Shiela in a terrified voice. The doctor''s words echoed in her mind again, and she got afraid.


    As quick as a blink of an eye, the boatman laid Yanyan on Shiela''s lap. Before he started the engine, Yanyan moved and opened his eyes.


    "Where am I?" he asked as he ran his eyes around and attempted to sit up. He looked terrified and confused.


    "Yanyan, it''s me," Shiela tried to calm him down.


    "Let me go. Mama and papa are waiting for me at the cave!" he said, forcing himself to get up. The boatman also held him down since he attempted to jump off from a boat.


    "No, you''re sick! Don''t worry because we will also bring them with us."


    Yanyan wriggled in protest. "You don''t understand. I don''t want them to worry!"


    "Okay, boy! Hold on. I''ll go and get them. I''m stronger than you, and I am healthy. How far are they from the cave?" offered the boatman as he saw that there was no way they could convince Yanyan to go first.


    "You don''t know where it is!"


    "We do because we were there a while ago. We were looking for you!" explained Shiela as she held his arm firmly, her heart aching at his son''s thoughtfulness.


    "Really? You were looking for me?" asked Yanyan, his eyes grew wide in both surprise and disbelief.


    "Yes, because we got worried. You are so sick, but you escaped. Second is, we had been looking for you for a long time already." Shiela''s voice started to crack.


    Shiela wanted to tell him at that very moment that he was her son. However, she got afraid that Yanyan may not be able to accept it. She saw his firm devotion to his grandparents even as young as he was. He fled from the clinic because of worries for them, and now, he wanted to jump off from the boat to go back to them.


    "You are looking for me?" Yanyan asked, his eyes turning red. He quickly smiled to conceal his emotion, then rubbed his eyes vigorously.


    "A dust gets into my eyes," he lied, and Shiela wondered what made him get into tears. Was it because he was moved at the thought that somebody cared for them? Or, he got overwhelmed because, aside from their offer to help him and his grandparents, they also thought about him. Shiela''s heart sank again at this thought.


    "Shiela!" his father''s voice and a roaring engine disrupted her train of thoughts.


    "Yanyan, do you see him? He''s my father. He is here to help your mama and papa," Shiela exclaimed happily as she pointed her finger towards the coming boat.


    The boatman jumped off from the boat right away as soon as Joey anchored his boat next to them.


    "Sir, come with me. Let''s go down to the cave and bring the boy''s grandparents here."


    "No!" Joey protested as he saw the boy on Shiela''s boat. He then looked around before he spoke. "They should not be in one boat. It would be dangerous. The guards are everywhere.  Go ahead while I go there myself and get them. Be back right away."


    Yanyan was about to protest, but he heard Joey, and he got his point. He gazed at the man with his black and round eyes, wondering if he was sincere. Joey must have read his expression that he chuckled before he spoke.


    "Yanyan, trust me," he said, looking into his eyes without blinking."I will make sure they are safe. We had been looking for the three of you for so long because you are important to us."


    Yanyan remained staring at him with his innocent eyes, and Joey almost got tempted to hug him tight. Yet, that could wait. What''s more important as of that moment was to get the old couple out.


    "You have to go now so that the boatman can come back to assist me, okay?"


    Yanyan nodded. By looking at the man''s eyes, he knew he could trust him. And he also knew that he was his other grandfather.

 Chapter 250 - The Islet Mystery 66

    The island guards who walked on foot inside the cave reached the exit frustrated. They did not see any signs of the old couple and the child.


    "Let''s go back! There may be an exit here, which we do not know. We could not fail Sir Ryan," one of the men suggested.


    "I agree. We are only used to this route. There could be other passageways."


    With everyone agreeing, they retraced their steps. Dividing themselves, some focused on the right and some on the left. Not far away from the shack, they spotted a crack on the wall.


    "Let''s take a closer look! It could be another route towards the exit," a man shouted, focusing his light on the crack.


    Everyone moved to check the wall opening. As one of them reached the rock wall first, he shook his head.


    "The opening is too small for an a.d.u.l.t to pass through," he said, moving his flashlight from top to bottom. "And to enter through this opening, one needs to climb. Yanyan, perhaps, could pass through but not the elderlies."


    Another man came to check and shook his head as well. "They perhaps escaped long before we got in. Besides, they wouldn''t probably venture into an undiscovered route. It is too risky."


    Ryan also checked it for himself, but he, too, concluded that his parents couldn''t pass through it.


    He then instructed the guards and the officers to go forward to the exit and meet the rest of them. All of them who took their boats were already there waiting for them.


    "How did it go, sir?" an officer met Ryan as soon as they came out.


    "They are not there," Ryan sighed, and the frown on his face told them his inner worries and frustration. "We only search inside the cave, how about trying to find them outside. They could have gone out to find water or vegetables."


    "I have also sent our men there, sir," the head officer replied, "but they saw no sign of them."


    Ryan took a deep breath as anger welled up inside him. He could never imagine how his old parents who lived comfortably on their hacienda before, or in their house inside the cove, survive a difficult life inside the cave. The most painful of it all was the thought that his son, whom he could have lavished with material comforts, suffered a kind of childhood that only beggars experienced. Scenes of him refusing to eat the food they distributed on the island and images of him selling his shells and corals one freezing night, revisited his thought and broke his heart again.


    Just as he almost gave in to his inward impulse of throwing anything his hand could grasp or kicking anything to release his anger, his phone vibrated. He pulled it out angrily and read the message. It was from Joey.


    "Meet me alone on the other side of this island."


    Ryan looked up and ran his eyes through all of them. Then he turned to the head officer. "Sir, thank you so much for everything. I need time to be alone and think about this. I will keep in touch."


    The police officer nodded. He understood what he felt. If he were in his place, he would have killed his father a long time ago. But then, he remembered that some of Marco''s men assigned to this exit did not know yet about what happened to their companion. He glanced at them and back to Ryan, waiting for his decision.


    "Take care of them and bring them to Isla Uno. You know what I want for all of them," Ryan said in a lazy tone, obviously drained and frustrated by their futile search.


    Ryan climbed into his speedboat that one of the officers brought for him after the island guards and Marco''s men disappeared from his sight. He also watched as soon as the officers followed through the fishing boat. When all of them were gone, he turned on the app, which pointed out Joey''s location.


    A few minutes after, Ryan arrived at the place. Joey waved at Ryan and jumped out of the boat as soon as he saw him. Ryan followed without asking where they were going. As soon as he received Joey''s message, he knew deep in his heart that on that day, he''s going to see his parents.


    "What''s this?" Ryan asked as he saw the downward path covered by shrubs.


    "It''s a hidden route towards the cave," the boatman behind him announced, startling Ryan.


    "How do you know?" Ryan began to worry that some of Marco''s men had been here already and took his family away.


    "Ma''am Shiela and I were there a while ago to get Yanyan. We wanted to bring his grandparents with us, but Sir Joey did not allow us as it would arouse suspicion," explained the boatman to a gaping Ryan.


    "Shiela was here? And you rescued Yanyan? And also my parents?" the load of information almost made his heart burst and shake in fear. Shiela made her own risky move despite how he wanted to protect her carefully.


    "I also scolded Shiela, but it proves that her maternal instinct is right. She had been praying for the child, and in God''s time today, He answers her prayer."


    Ryan once again held back his urge to cry. He was right after all in remaining faithful to one woman, even in her absence. He was blessed, not just with a beautiful woman inside and out, but also a good mother.


    ________


    "It''s been a long while already, and Yanyan has not come back," Yanyan''s grandma voiced out her worry. "What if something happened to him?"


    "Don''t worry. Yanyan would never leave us. He proves it for so many times already."


    "It''s not about doubting him. We are already old. I am afraid..." she stopped as an intense light blinded her.


    "Yanyan, is that you?" the old couple asked almost simultaneously.


    Nobody answered for some moments, and the couple started to get afraid. Who could they be? Did they mean harm to them? Did they capture Yanyan?


    After some more moments of silence as the strong light moved from one corner to another, the old couple heard a man sobbing. The light was too glaring that they couldn''t see beyond. Just then, strong arms wrapped around both of them, coupled with a loud and bitter sob.


    "Ryan? Is this really you?" the old couple blurted simultaneously again, as they hugged him tighter together.


    "Yes, nay, tay. I finally found you. I had been looking for you for so long already."


    "God is indeed so good to us because he allowed you to remember your nannies," Ryan''s mother said, as her cries became louder.


    "I already know everything, nay. I am your son; you are my parents, and Gerome is your adopted son!"


    The old couple wailed together as they heard him. God is indeed good for allowing them to see this day where the truth was finally revealed.


    "I hate him. He made both of you and my son suffer a life like this! He must swallow the bitter taste of my revenge!"

 Chapter 251 - The Islet Mystery 67

    Ryan finally brought his parents to his home on Chara island. He also had Yanyan and Shiela come over with the assistance of the same nurse who cared for him. Even if she did something wrong, she was still the key to finding her son again and so with Ryan''s parents. If not for her mistake, they wouldn''t have secretly chased Yanyan, and Shiela wouldn''t have found the lead.


    So many worthwhile things were happening that day, except for the death of Marco and his men. If only their loyalty fell on the right person, they could have lived better lives. Yet, finding the long lost family again, called for a celebration. Ryan prepared a sumptuous dinner for all of them before calling everyone in the bas.e.m.e.nt for a surprise.


    Dressed in Ryan and Shiela''s shirts and pants, the old couple sat down before the long dining table together with Joey, Shiela, and Ryan. The elegance of the environment amazed both of them so much though they felt clumsy and unworthy to be there. Their frail and ragged built spoke of poverty and hardship they had endured. Though they lived in a big and beautiful house before, that couldn''t compare with Ryan''s property. A sense of inferiority overtook them, but seeing their son in great success overwhelmed them with joy.


    "Son, I am already ready to die. I have already seen your success and happiness. I can die a happy woman," Ryan''s mother blurted in between her sniffs.


    "Me, too. I would be ready to die after walking down the aisle with you during your wedding," Yanyan''s father butted in.


    Ryan''s heart sank at the simplicity of his parent''s joy. He still had so many plans to make up for all those rights and privileges Mr. Te took out from them. He wanted them to experience the luxury and comfort he could now afford.


    "No, after our wedding, we''ll take both of you, Yanyan and uncle Joey around the world. So, don''t ever think of dying yet. I still want you to enjoy life," Ryan replied, his eyes were glistening with unshed tears.


    The four of them laughed at Ryan''s practical joke, and the couple started to feel comfortable. They started talking about their experiences, and soon, their discussion became endless.


    Ryan then descended to the bas.e.m.e.nt to visit his entrapped guest. The grin on his face talked about the freedom they had longed for. Cherry even squealed for joy the moment she saw Ryan in a happy mood. It was so strange to see him this way lately.


    "Does your smile means we are now free?" asked Cherry as she danced in happiness even before she got the answer.


    "Let''s celebrate!" announced Ryan with a loud chuckle.


    The women flung themselves at him, congratulating him even before they heard the story. The men followed, simultaneously throwing him sincere questions. Ryan could only reply to them with a laugh as he got confused about whose problems he would answer first.


    "Let''s talk about everything over dinner."


    The group got up eagerly and followed Ryan towards the dining room. The overwhelming sense of freedom quickened up their steps, intensified by their curiosity on how he did it.


    Ryan introduced his parents right away, and all of them approached and kissed the old couple''s hands. Their conversation then began as soon as they found their seat, making their dinner a lively one. While engrossed deeply in a topic, Chloe''s voice sailed into the air.


    "Uncle Ryan, may I see your son?" said Chloe, her round eyes reflecting her excitement. It had been a long while since she was with a.d.u.l.ts only. She missed her playmates already, and the mention of a child excited her.


    "She''s sleeping, baby, because he is sick," Shiela answered, her lips curving into an amused smile.


    "Why? Did he bathe in the rain?"


    "Yes, and he allowed his dripping shirt to dry on his body," answered Shiela, her thoughts were on the scenes the night they huddled close together beneath the boulders.


    "Oh, that''s not good. May I see him?" Chloe frowned and made a face, making the a.d.u.l.ts laugh.


    A voice from the doorway lifted their heads towards the direction. It was the nurse, and in her hand, was a boy holding her. Even with still a weak facial expression, anyone could see that he got Ryan''s handsome features.


    "Hey, baby girl, here''s Yanyan, you''re playmate," the nurse smiled as she placed an arm over Yanyan''s shoulders.


    Chloe''s eyes widened in excitement as she finally saw him. She already got thrilled and excited when the a.d.u.l.ts mentioned him rowing a boat and trekking inside the cave.


    "Yanyan, are you okay?" Startled, Ryan stood up quickly to meet him. Just a few hours ago, he saw him sleeping soundly with a sick and exhausted aura.


    "I''m sorry, sir, but he insisted," the nurse started to reason out, "so, I just changed his line temporarily into an injection site adaptor."


    Ryan and Shiela looked up at Jane, asking her with their eyes if it was alright to let him mingle with them. As the pediatrician, she smiled and gave a ''go'' sign. She just couldn''t talk, her emotion gripping her in watching the parents and child. The child had been their topic a few seconds ago, and his story squeezed her heart in immense pain.


    Ryan could tell the meaning of Chloe''s stares, so he had Yanyan sat down beside her. Yanyan was still so shy, but Chloe kept on asking him about his experiences in riding a boat and in spelunking until his timidity dissipated. The a.d.u.l.ts just observed them. They already knew from Ryan and Shiela that they had not revealed themselves to him yet.


    "Yanyan, do you see bats and spiders inside the cave?" persisted Chloe, amusing Yanyan. She was too cute every time she threw gaping questions at him.


    "Lots of them, baby girl."


    "Can you take me there with you?" shrieked Chloe as the thought of excitement spread over her.


    "If your parents will allow."


    "Are your parents going to allow you, also?"


    Ryan and Shiela held their breath. How could they stop Chloe from telling him about what she heard? They wanted to take it slowly until they could create a close relationship with him.


    "Mama and papa allow me, how about you?" answered Yanyan while glancing at his grandparents.


    Chloe followed his eyes that fell on the old couple, and she got confused. "Yanyan, who are your real parents? I thought your parents are uncle Ryan and auntie Shiela?"


    The a.d.u.l.ts held their breaths. They regretted talking about the truth in front of this innocent but curious child. They looked away from them, pretending they were not listening.


    "Baby girl, listen to me," Yanyan whispered but loud enough for all of them to hear. "I grew up thinking that my real parents are mama and papa."


    "And then?"


    "I just know it today that my real parents are ma''am Shiela and uncle Ryan. Please don''t tell them. It''s our secret," explained Yanyan, emphasizing his request by placing a finger on top of his nose bridge.


    "Okay, I won''t tell!" Chloe promised, but she forgot to say it in a whisper, making everyone break into boisterous laughter.


    Shiela and Ryan also laughed as big drops of tears flowed from their eyes, prompting them both to hug their child together. However, their laughter suddenly turned to wail, making the rest brush their silent tears away from their faces.

 Chapter 252 - The Islet Mystery 68

    Andy had already noticed that someone was following him wherever he went. On that week, Andy stayed at his apartment most of the time. He only went out every time Jullien asked him to go out with her. He already resigned from his work and made himself available for her on these remaining days before her wedding with Ryan. He wanted to stay with her, even on the last night before her wedding. It may be the most painful moments, but who could judge him? He already knew from the start that Jullien was not for him, but still, he persisted. He accepted the gamble out of his love for her, even if he knew he would lose in the end.


    The night before the wedding, where he expected to make love to her in a most unforgettable way, Jullien did not come to their agreed place. He waited until the scented candles burned out, and the dews on the flowers dried up. Tonight, he would have wanted to say his vow to her¡ªto pledge his love for her forever, even if she would marry someone else the following day. Instead of being bitter, he wanted to make the most of their moments together and create the best memories they could both look back together. Yet, the dawn came, and Jullien did not come.


    He blew off the remaining lights of the candles, and he changed into a travel attire. He then pulled out the luggage he had prepared ahead and went out of the room. Twenty hours from now, he would already be on foreign land to start a new life without Jullien. And from then on, she would just be a memory he would treasure forever.


    Just after he closed the door and picked up his luggage again, two men in sturdy built appeared and aimed their pistols at his head.


    "If I were you, I wouldn''t move and resist," one of the men spoke out, his gaze was sharp and threatening.


    Startled and afraid, Andy dared to ask while trying to conceal the hints of fear in his eyes. "At least, let me know who you are, and why do you arrest me."


    "We are the men of Mr. Gavin Sy, and he summoned you to answer for your sin against him."


    Hearing the name of Jullien''s father, he resigned to his doom. He deserved to get the punishment for drawing their daughter''s heart away from her betrothed husband.


    "Alright, don''t worry. I will cooperate."


    The men had him followed them in the parking area. He knew then that they were indeed Mr. Sy''s men because of the expensive car they were using. One of the men slid into the driver''s seat, and the other ushered him inside the car. After a few minutes, the man beside him tied a thick blindfold around his head.


    The few remaining minutes towards their destination was too mind-grueling for Andy. His imaginations of how Mr. Gavin would execute his fury against him terrified him. Nevertheless, he set his mind to accept his fate. He knew the pain would finally ebb down, but the thought of losing her forever the next day made him willing to take death and punishment.


    Soon, the men led him out of the car, and they walked towards what seemed like a cemented path. Then, they stopped, and he heard a creaking sound of an opening door. The men let him in, but still, the blindfold was on.


    "You are going to present yourself to a panel of interrogators. Dress accordingly."


    "I didn''t bring any of my formal suits."


    "Mr. Sy expected this, so he prepared it for you."


    Andy''s brows gathered in a puzzled knot, yet he still cooperated. He felt with his fingers the soft fabric of the cloth the men handed one by one, imagining the horrible and intimidating faces of the interrogation panel. In a few minutes, Andy transformed into a handsome scientist in a formal and expensive suit, ready to appear in front of his juror.


    While standing later at a corner, he heard a piece of beautiful music from what seemed like an orchestra. He also heard soft footsteps, and it seemed like they were walking through a carpeted floor. After a few minutes, one of the men placed into his ears a wireless earset.


    "When I say stop, then stop. When I say open your blindfold, then open it."


    "Got it," Andy replied, pondering on the man''s words. It only meant that a few minutes from now, he could see where he was. Yet, that didn''t make him happy; his thoughts were on the ordeal he was about to receive.


    "Now, walk slowly. Count from one to three before making the next step."


    _____


    As the bride in her dazzling wedding dress stepped into the aisle according to the rhythm of the march, the congregation rose up. All eyes were on her, admiring the gracefulness and beauty that held the gaze of a hundred guests. In both of her sides, were her parents who walked with smiles in their lips and unshed tears in their eyes.


    They stopped halfway down the aisle, and their eyes were on the handsome groom walking towards them. Traces of confusion and agitation painted his face, yet it didn''t diminish his attractive features. When he finally stopped and stood before them, the bride lifted both of her hands to her face and pulled out the blindfold from his eyes.


    Startled, the groom''s eyes widened like a full moon as the beautiful smile of the bride greeted him. His hearts raced in immense joy, heightened by the loud sound of applause erupting from the crowd. He stood frozen for a moment, too overwhelmed by the surprise. He only returned to his senses when Mrs. Sy placed her arms around him for a hug, followed by Mr. Gavin Sy.


    "Andy, thanks for loving our daughter," the couple said in a soft and gentle voice that almost made him drop down to the floor. His face started to flush as tears were threatening to flood down  from his eyes


    Before he could break emotionally down, Jullien clung her hand into his arm.


    "Later, I will answer your many questions, but at this moment, you are not allowed to cry," she chuckled before pulling him to march down with her on the aisle towards the altar.


    It didn''t take long, and the ceremony flowed out according to its order. The officiating minister then proceeded to the highlight of the program.


    "Jullien, do you accept  Andy as your lawfully-wedded husband?"


    "With all my heart," Jullien replied as she tenderly fixed her eyes to her groom.


    "Andy, do you accept Jullien as your lawfully-wedded wife?"


    "With all my heart and soul," Andy answered, and this time he was no longer able to hold back the tears that trickled down in his cheeks. Who would have thought that this day would come? Who would have thought that Jullien would find a way to his heart?


    Without the instruction yet from the officiating minister that they could hug, Jullien wrapped Andy in a tight embrace as tears of joy welled down from her eyes.

 Chapter 253 - The Islet Mystery 69...

    Shiela was watching them from the upper balcony with Ryan.  Her eyes didn''t leave the couple as they went through the whole ceremony. Jullien caused her heartaches for a long time, and seeing her now in the arms of Andy, made her cry. Finally, their struggles ended peacefully.


    As the guests proceeded to the reception area, Jullien and Andy remained and met Ryan and Shiela in the upper balcony. They flung each other into an emotional embrace before words came out from their mouths.


    "Ryan, I''m sorry for what I did to uncle Gerome. I promise to give him the antidote once you have settled in UAE," Jullien said, initiating to break the emotional tension building within them.


    Ryan saw the questioning look of Andy, and so he gave a brief explanation of what he did. He also talked about his plans for the people in Isla Uno as they would be a significant part of continuing their business.


    "I will continue the management of the people in Isla Uno just as you want it," Andy promised as Ryan asked his assistance for that matter.


    "There''s also one thing you should promise," Ryan replied in a sincere tone and expression. "Stop the production of addictive Myrtle Shade creamers."


    "How about the people who need it?" Andy inquired as his mind went over to the vast market Mr. Te was distributing.


    "They will die a natural death once they know what happened to their supplier." Ryan was referring to the current situation his father was in. Without his order, the distribution would get stunted.


    "Ryan, we promise. My parents and I have already talked about this. And they also agreed to stop it and settle into a peaceful living."


    Ryan nodded in satisfaction and was about to end their conversation when Andy interrupted. "What about the case you intend to file against Mr. Te?"


    "I asked Dino to take care of it with the help of Allie. My parents don''t want me to take revenge because, as they said, it will only make me find more troubles. I will focus now on our wedding plans once we are there in our other world. See you both there."


    They hugged once more before Shiela and Ryan left for the airport. The whole Dioko and Lopez families, as well as Cherry and her mom, were already waiting to bid farewell to them. Ryan''s parents were also there with Yanyan, excited to start new lives away from the claws of Mr. Te.


    Just as Shiela was about to descend the stairs, Andy called out. "Shie, I hope you already meet the shareholder of your company who falls in love with you."


    "Who?" Shiela creased her brows, feeling uncomfortable that Ryan was listening.


    "Remember, there are three of them. And the third one has never shown his face to you yet. He''s the one that I mean." Andy chuckled as he reminded her.


    Shiela indeed recalled that aside from the three of them who shared capital to start their business, someone asked to join. She didn''t mind much about him because he only kept in touch and gave his instructions to one of them. Later she learned that the investor refused to place his investment under his name. He decided to add it to the share of Shiela, making her the top shareholder under a separate memorandum of agreement between the two of them. After that, she no longer heard about him as her focus was on the production and marketing side.


    "It''s not my problem if he won''t show up, and if he keeps his love for himself," Shiela frowned as she turned to retrace her steps towards the stairs.


    "Don''t worry! He''s going to marry you!"


    Shiela eyed Ryan suspiciously, and the latter laughed and pulled her close to him.


    "There are still so many things you need to know. I am also the one who supported your medical expenses."


    Shiela stopped and faced him, gaping at what she heard.


    "Why didn''t you tell me?" Shiela''s voice echoed into the walls of the church, and Ryan placed a hand over her mouth.


    "It''s not important."


    "But it is, for me. I could have thanked you a long time ago."


    "I''m sorry."


    Shiela was about to argue further, but Ryan silenced her with a deep kiss. She melted in the kiss like a heated wax, overwhelmed by the revelation that Ryan was there all along. There was no reason to doubt his love anymore. He proved it in his own, silent ways.


    "Why are you taking my limelight? We should be the only couple kissing today," Jullien complained,  a teasing curve broke on her lips. And all of them burst into a round of laughter.


    ______


    The next few minutes found Shiela and Ryan in front of a building. The guards let them in after his routine inspection. "To your right, is the jail warden''s building."


    The couple nodded, and soon, they found the said building. One of the guards recognized Ryan, and he quickly ushered them inside. "You want to see Mr. Te?"


    "Yes, please," Ryan replied while Shiela stayed beside him nervously. This man hated her and even asked for the death of her son. What if he would recognize her?


    Mr. Te soon came out of what looked like a room that he was using as his bedroom. He sat inside the couch as if he didn''t notice them, turning on the TV set using a remote control. Ryan stood up to take it away from his hand.


    "Dad, let''s talk first."


    Mr. Te frowned as he stared at Ryan. "What do you say? Why are you calling me like I am your father?"


    Shiela felt agitated. He was right. He was never Ryan''s father by blood or by emotional attachment.


    "Because I am Ryan, your adopted son."


    "I have a son?" he furrowed his brows, gazing at him with a sense of doubt in his eyes.


    "Yes, dad. You have a son, and it''s me."


    "Go away, I don''t know you," he swept his arm to dismiss them. He then stood up and walked back towards his room, murmuring for his disturbed sleep.


    ______


    As Ryan and Shiela went out, Ryan was silent. His heart sank in seeing him like that. He used to be a proud and dominating man. Yet, he couldn''t blame Jullien.


    "Sir Ryan," Dino''s voice broke into his reverie.


    "Dino!"


    The men greeted each other with a shake before Ryan spoke out. "Thanks for coming to see me. I am running out of time already."


    "It''s alright, sir," Dino replied with a shy smile.


    "I''ll keep in touch. Just please make sure dad would lose his power and influence over his men. Until he still has it, corruption, crime, and addiction wouldn''t end."


    ____


    Shiela and Ryan finally found their way towards the airport. He knew he still had so many things to complete, but that could wait. He wanted to enjoy first with his son, his parents, and Shiela as they worked on their wedding plans.


    The farewell wishes from the Lopez-Dioko family,  as well as from Cherry and her mom were so emotional that they cried hard in recalling what happened in Chara island. Despite their awful experiences there, a beautiful and more important thing happened. And that was the gaining of a special bond and friendship that could last for a lifetime.


    While the a.d.u.l.ts were busy with their emotional chat, Chloe and Yanyan sat on a bench not far from them.


    "Yanyan," Chloe began to speak, and her round eyes were shining with tears, "promise me that you''ll come back and that you''ll take me to the caves."


    "Baby girl, I do not like caves because it''s scary, but I will take you to the beach, and we will watch sunsets together."


    "Then I''ll wait."


    "Please, do."


    The two kids then hugged each other with tears trickling from their eyes. The a.d.u.l.ts who saw them smiled, wondering what the future may hold for both of them.

 Chapter 254 - Home in Molave

    It was a harvest season in Molave, and farmers flocked up to the mountain to join the harvest. Leo owned big farmlands, and every planting and harvest season, he hired them to do the labor. Due to the slopes and stiff cliffs, the use of pieces of machinery was difficult, so they remained using the manual method of farming. These farmers stayed in huts that Leo built around their house. Due to the distance from their homes, they stayed there for several days until they completed the task.


    Though the labor was tiresome, it was always a happy day for everyone because it was the season where they gathered together for many days. During moonlit nights, they gathered outside the lawn to sing and chat over galloons of coconut wine and boiled bananas or sweet potatoes. At times, Issa baked cassava or rice cakes for them using her native steamers. They usually sang and danced through the nights as men took turns in strumming their guitars and women did the singing.


    It was another harvest afternoon when everyone''s attention shifted to the sound of a coming car. Though not many vehicles came to their place, the local government had already paved a district road towards the home of Leo and Issa. Their area produced an enormous amount of crops and livestock, making the place a priority of the government''s road construction project.


    Leo was piling up the sacks of corn cobs that the laborers had harvested for the day when the car stopped in front of their house. Issa was also with other women under the trees shelling out and husking the corn cobs. Everyone stopped from their work and riveted their attention towards the car, curious about who came. Leo, on the other hand, did not expect a guest or any delivery order from the town. He dusted himself with his hands and walked towards the car. He stopped a few meters away, feeling the curious gazes of the farmers on his back.


    Unable to see who was behind the tinted windows, Leo squinted and waited until the door slowly opened. A man''s leg first touched down the ground, and soon, his whole physique appeared in full view before him, making his jaw dropped in surprise. For a moment, he stood pinned to the ground until his voice, like a soft feather, tickled his heart and ear.


    "Tay, I''m sorry for not going home soon."


    Andrew then strode the distance between them and fell on his neck, heaving out a loud cry in a snap of a finger. The surprise, the sense of joy and relief that gripped his heart at the moment, prompted a complicated feeling inside Leo and he also cried. His bawling was even much louder than his son''s;  his arms wrapping around him.


    "Son, it''s not about how long anymore but about giving us both the chance to live finally as father and son."


    "I grow up longing to be by your side," said Andrew, and in the next second, a loud wail broke within him, slowly releasing all the bitterness and envy he felt inside.


    Leo held him tighter, not minding the deluge of tears that run through Andrew''s chin towards his back.


    "The moment I knew you were inside your mother''s w.o.m.b, I promised myself to make you a musician, and I am glad that even without me, you live the dream that I had for you."


    After a long while, Andrew released himself from Leo''s embrace. He looked into his father''s eyes and raised his hand to touch his face.


    "Tay, can I stay home for a long while?"


    Leo''s face winced in pain in an instant,  and he broke into another cry, hugging his son again.


    "If only I can bring back the time and start all over again..."


    Andrew pulled out from his embrace and covered his mouth. "Shhh. Let''s move forward and push  the past aside."


    Leo nodded and smiled, tears still stinging his eyes. Then, he placed a hand at Andrew''s shoulders and led him excitedly towards the house.


    "Issa! Issa!" Leo called out and scanned his eyes at the group of women who resumed their work, afraid to get caught watching their emotional display.


    Issa emerged from behind a tree, conscious of her puffing eye bags, which were as red as her tomatoes in the backyard. Andrew walked towards her with a wide grin, hugging her too in his arms.


    "Thank you for your patience, nay," Andrew looked straight into her eyes, passing on the message of his gratitude for accepting him as Leo''s son. He knew that a mention of her mother''s name caused heartaches to her when they were younger.


    "Thanks for coming home, son." A pang of pain squeezed Andrew''s heart. Issa''s welcome pierced deep within him, making him regret taking so long in coming home. If not for Joanna''s patience on him, this would not have happened. And he wouldn''t have lived longer.


    Andrew jolted from his feet when he remembered that he left Joanna inside the car. How could he forget the woman who gave importance to his life? He quickly sprinted towards the car, and in the next second, Joanna got down with a beautiful bundle in her arms.


    Leo and Issa''s eyes widened with glee as they stared at the yawning, handsome baby boy that Joanna showed out to them.


    "Darling, meet grandpa and grandma. They will take care of you while mommy and daddy will be away for a concert."


    "Oh, my!" Issa squealed, "this is such a wonderful surprise!"


    "Lord, how do I ever deserve your goodness?" Leo exclaimed as he put his arms together and closed his eyes. "It was not enough that you give me another son; you also top it with a grandson!"


    _______


    Before the skies turned crimson the next morning, Ajie, Allie, Cherry, Andrew, and Joanna gathered outside the door of Leo and Issa''s house. Andrew lighted the candles on top of the cake that Joanna was holding. At the single strum of a guitar, the small group of musicians lifted their beautiful, blended voices, waking up the sleeping farm animals. Roosters crowed, the cats ran around, licking on their legs, and the dogs barked. Even the farmers in their huts rose from their beds.


    Leo sat up abruptly as he seemed to hear the angels singing in his dream. When Issa also sat up beside him, he knew it wasn''t a dream. They listened more carefully, and his tears then dripped from his eyes like the waterfalls on the hill across their place. This was ever the first birthday serenade he had in his whole life.


    "We wish you a happy birthday! Today and the years to come..."

 Chapter 255 - Home In Molave 1

    Watching how comfortable Andrew already was in conversing with Leo, Ajie was happy. Finally, the storms of their lives had calmed down. The awkwardness between Allie and Hayri, as well as Cherry and Andrew, was totally gone as if it never happened at all. Hayri had also moved his main office to Cebu so that he could be closer to them.


    A year had already passed after that unforgettable and scary experience in Chara Island. Allie had delivered a healthy and beautiful baby boy, and Andrew married Joanna. Even if it was easier for Andrew to forgive him than their father, he did not give up hope. He believed that through prayers and Joanna''s patience on him, the day would finally come that he and their father would reconcile.


    Ajie''s thoughts went back to the moment he got overwhelmed by surprise. While he was changing his son''s diaper, his phone vibrated. Pressing the call sign and turning on the speaker mode, Andrew''s voice floated from the other line.


    "Brod, can you please come over here in Molave tomorrow? Tatay Leo''s birthday will be the day after tomorrow, right? I want us to give him a surprise."


    "Where are you now?" Ajie confirmed, Molave was the last place Andrew would go back. Not only because it was the place that gave him painful memories but because he found it hard to forgive the person who caused him the feeling of rejection and abandonment for so long.


    "I''m at home in Molave."


    Ajie called everyone, and they all decided to go with him. Oblivious to everyone except Allie later on, he bought back the properties that Leo and Issa sold for his college education. He developed the place into a mountain resort and intended to surprise the dear ones whom he knew as his parents on Leo''s birthday. The site held sentimental value for him because he knew it was the best property that his father Leo sacrificed for his future.


    The property was adjacent to their lot on the lower portion of the mount, but still, it overlooked the spectacular sea view on one side and beautiful plains and mist-covered hills on the other side. Aside from the hot spring as the resort''s natural attraction, the place was a refreshing and peaceful haven to any exhausted city dwellers. It also offered horseback riding through the outskirts of a forest and a zip line that started from the entrance of the resort across the whole extent of the property. The cable thrill allowed the guests to take a full view of the splendid scenery.


    When the group arrived in the afternoon before Leo''s birthday, the sun was already hiding behind the hills. Still, its crimson and orange hues lighted the sky and the entire panorama of the breathtaking scenery around them. Some areas were still under construction, but it was already ready for the dedication and blessing the next day.


    "Happy birthday, happy birthday to you. Happy birthday, tatay, uncle Leo!" everyone ended the song and greeted the teary-eyed birthday celebrant in unison.


    Leo thanked everyone with endless tears dripping from his eyes. Standing before him were the tycoons of marine industries. How could he ever deserve this lovely birthday surprise? Issa thanked them also and expressed Leo''s unspoken joy in better and profound words. They then invited everyone inside the house while they rushed inside the kitchen.


    "What shall we serve them, Leo? What we have here are only fruits and sweet corn!"


    Before Leo could answer, Allie and Joanna came in with their beaming smile. "Leave it to us, Tay, Nay. Your daughters will take care of it."


    "Tay, just please help us find a good place outside to set up a dining table where we could get a beautiful view," Joanna requested, and Leo nodded with still furrowed brows. The two elderlies looked at each other, wondering what food were they planning to prepare.


    "Tay, Nay, just do your morning care. Follow us on the lawn later," said Allie as she saw their look. exchanges


    The delivery truck from the resort had already parked outside and started to bring out the folded tables into the lawn when the two ladies came out. With the help of Ajie and Andrew, a long dining table covered in red and white cloth stood sprawled under the canopy of a huge tree. The resort''s catering staff also did their wonders. In just a few minutes, they were able to arrange the food around fresh rose-and-orchid centerpieces.


    While they were chatting happily over their breakfast, another delivery truck arrived. As soon as the engine stopped, the driver came out and approached them.


    "Is this the house of Mr. Leo Gonzaga?"


    "Yes," answered Leo, wiping his mouth as he stood up.


    "A birthday gift delivery for you, sir, from a certain Mr. Andrew."


    As the driver turned his head toward the truck, a sleek black grand piano descended from a metal ramp. Leo stood gaping at it. His eyes couldn''t believe that his old, tattered church organ could now go to the junk. Not that he could afford it if he liked it, but he didn''t see it a need.


    Leo turned to Leo and hugged him, his heart too full to thank him with words. Andrew laughed as he held his father''s shoulders at arm''s length.


    "Tay, do you think it''s free? You have to give free piano lessons to our kids!"


    "Of course," Leo answered, brushing his tears away as a smile curved in the corners of his mouth. Then he continued, "That''s if you''ll remember to visit your parents frequently."


    "Who said we wouldn''t? Before we come here, we have already decided to live here with you. That''s also if you agree."


    Ajie stood up and hugged Andrew. He was already about to tell them about the resort, but he decided to hold it for now. He didn''t want to compete and take the limelight away from Andrew.


    "Who wants to go horseback riding?" Ajie asked as soon as he released Andrew.


    "Me!" Jane raised her hand, "but I have not tried it yet. Is there a horserider to go with me?"


    "Me," Hayri replied and looked at her. "Let''s go."

 Chapter 256 - Home in Molave 2

    "What about me?" Cherry asked with a pout. Then she added, "Poor are the loveless for they shall be lonely." The group erupted into laughter, and Cherry pretended to sulk.


    Everyone got tongue-tied, and before Ajie could find a solution, the sound of hooves clicking against the rocks as well as the occasional clinking of the harness dispersed into the air. Jane squealed in excitement, and Cherry slumped back in envy into the chair, exciting a round of laughter again.


    "Che, hop in!" hollered a rider covered with a brown bonnet and a hat after he scanned his eyes over the group.


    Cherry straightened up and stared at the rider, trying to recall the owner of the voice. The man jumped off the horse and removed his hat and bonnet, revealing himself.


    "Richard! You''re here, also?" Cherry shrieked in excitement.


    "Of course, Andrew invites the whole team," Richard grinned as he approached them. "Ryan knows it''s uncle Leo''s birthday today and that Andrew and Joanna are going home, so he rewarded us with another short vacation."


    "Wow! I love Ryan for that. I can now have a partner to teach me horseback riding!"


    "Sit down and have a coffee first!" Joanna offered, and then she called out the rest of the team for breakfast.


    All the members of the band in their horses took off to take their breakfast, and before that, they offered a capella serenade for Leo. Seconds flew off quickly, and soon, the youngster set off for their horseriding adventure.


    "Be sure not to go beyond the red marks," Ajie called out, reminding them of the restricted areas marked with red signboards and flags.


    Ajie then turned to the rest of them, who stayed in the table. "Don''t worry. I have some fun reserved for the young at hearts and young moms."


    Joanna and Allie giggled as they ran their eyes at Mr. Dioko, Mr.& Mrs. Lopez, Miss Perez, Leo, and Issa.


    "Where are the oldies going?" Mrs. Lopez asked as she hooked her arm at her husband.


    Ajie chuckled and gestured for everyone to stand up and follow him. Once they settled inside the van, he drove them into the resort and brought them to the hot-and-cold spring. Leo and Issa gasped in awe as they saw how this site transformed into an elegant tourist attraction. The spring was already nature''s wonder a few years ago. He never expected that the new owner of the property would enhance and convert it into man-made work of art.


    "Son, if I knew this site could be this wonderful today, I would have sold it to Mr. Lopez so that this place can remain a legacy," Leo chuckled after he said this. He knew he would never get an appointment to see an important man as Mr. Lopez if his intention was only about selling a property.


    Ajie smiled at him and whispered, "Can you secretly call nanay and follow me at that cottage across the spring?"


    Leo followed Ajie''s eyes and looked at the cottage across the tile-and-granite-enclosed spring. He then turned away from Ajie and went to Issa while Ajie walked slowly towards the cottage. He scanned his eyes over every inch of the spring, his mind wandering to the days of his childhood where he took his bath daily in this place. Ajie no longer noticed as his parents followed him.


    "Son, here we are," Leo spoke as soon as they were beside them. Ajie looked at them and smiled.


    "Tay, Nay, I repurchased this place ten times the original price because this place means much to you. Aside from that, the price of this place provided my needs during my college days. I wanted to surprise you about this earlier this morning, but I didn''t want to compete with Andrew. He might get hurt. Just keep it to yourselves for now."


    Leo and Issa hanged their mouths open. Who would expect that this land which they willingly released from their hearts was already back to them through their son? The surprise was too great that they wanted to sob.


    Ajie smiled as he watched their reaction. He still had many plans for them, but now that Andrew returned home, he was willing to give way for him.


    ______


    "Like humans, we need to establish a relationship with a horse," Hayri began to give lectures to Jane as they mounted a horse together.


    Jane just nodded nervously as she looked beyond the ears of the horse towards the trail before them.


    "If it is your first time, it is best to have a horse riding expert to guide you. You should wear long pants and proper footwear. Then, before mounting on a horse, make sure you do a horseman handshake."


    Jane giggled at it, imagining herself extending a hand and the horse lifting a leg to touch her hand with his hoof. Never had she thought about going on any vacation with a horseriding spree.


    Hayri chuckled as he heard her, he could guess what was in her mind. "Jane, listen first. How could you be so innocent?"


    Sitting in front of Hayri, she abruptly raised her head up and sideways as she wanted to glance at him. In doing this, she unintentionally hit her lips close to him, and this earned her an unwarranted halt of her heartbeat, followed by a vigorous one.


    Hayri smiled at her abrupt withdrawal and continued, ignoring her obvious reaction. "Extend and arm and offer the back of your hand and wait until he touches it with his nose. It is his way of permitting you to mount into him."


    "How cute," she mumbled and giggled again at how foolish her imagination had been.


    When Jane stopped giggling, Hayri continued. "Be gentle with the reins. If you want to go left, move the left rein towards the left and so on with the right if you want to steer to the right."


    "Got it," Jane answered, extending her hands to touch the reins.


    "Now, try it yourself."


    "No!" she protested loudly, and the horse swayed, startled by her sudden squeal.


    "Relax, Jane. I''m just here at your back," Hayri assured her by placing his chin on her shoulder and wrapping his arms around her waist, preparing to support her.


    They were very close as childhood friends, but they never got intimate as this except for those moments where she cried on his shoulders. Getting conscious of his arms around her, Jane got more nervous. Her heartbeats were louder than Hayri''s further instructions.

 Chapter 257 - Home In Molave 3

    Hayri only allowed occasional trots until Jane dispelled her fear of falling down from a horse. Once they reached the end of the trail where signages warned them not to go beyond, they dismounted from the horse. Not far from them, they could hear laughter from the group, especially Cherry''s high-pitched one.


    "Jane! Hayri! Come over here," Cherry''s voice echoed against the surrounding hills. The group had already laid out their mattress and feasted on the snacks and drinks they brought along with them.


    Hayri and Jane spread their own blanket beside theirs while Cherry started narrating about her excitement in having been able to ride a horse. Jane gaped at her as Hayri only let their horse walk on its four legs.


    "I love it when the horse galloped! I felt like an expert," boasted Cherry, her eyes bulging out of its sockets as she recalled the thrill.


    "I wish Jane is as daring as you, but she only galloped with her books," Hayri replied, taking his cold drink in one gulp. He then adjusted his distance from Jane then laid down his head on her lap.


    The group laughed at his joke, making Jane feel uncomfortable. Hayri must have seen her reaction that he reached out a hand to pinch her nose, placing his sunglasses afterward to shield him from the direct glare of the sunlight.


    "Stop it!" Jane complained laughing, swatting his hand away, but Hayri kept on teasing her until she pinned both of his hands to the ground. She did not realize that the force she exerted moved her face closer to him. Jane straightened up and pretended to be tired once she felt him staring into her face. Hayri stopped struggling as well, but he still held her left hand as he closed his eyes


    Jane felt something strange at Hayri''s treatment on her lately. He was sweeter than before and more caring towards her. Yet, she tried to ignore it and refused the thought that his actions suggested a different meaning. He was just a best friend, and she should not allow another mistake to happen. It was not easy to overcome the affection she had with Ajie once it started to bloom. No one knew about her struggle in accepting that he was no longer a fiance but a brother.


    After a few minutes of chatting under the tree, which overlooked the lush plains and hills below, one in the group decided to go back and do another activity. Cherry leaped to her feet and rubbed her hands to shake off the grains of soil in her hand.


    "Let''s go zip lining!" Cherry suggested with her loud and cheerful voice, urging everyone to stand up. In a blink of an eye, they all tucked their mattresses and food packs into their bags except Hayri and Jane.


    "Louise, let''s go," Jane urged, tugging his shoulder to wake him up.


    Hayri replied only with a groan, so Jane shook his shoulders again.


    "Guys, go ahead. I''m still sleepy. I might fall on the horse," Hayri replied in a sleepy voice, still with closed eyes.


    "Okay. Don''t take long," Cherry replied and shrugged her shoulders. She couldn''t let her excitement die with Hayri''s lack of enthusiasm.


    Once the sound of the hooves faded away, Jane shook Hayri''s shoulders again. "Louise, let''s go. It''s scary to be alone here."


    "Give me more five minutes."


    "Five minutes, then."


    Jane sighed as she watched Hayri closed his eyes again. She looked around and then realized that they were too far away from the town below. The few buildings looked like small blocks the size of a match. The sea behind it looked like a pale outline, separating itself from the horizon. The only noise she could hear was the chirpings of the birds and the hissing sounds of some insects she could not identify.


    Jane couldn''t imagine that this was the place where Ajie grew up. She liked solitude in a serene haven at times, but to live for quite a number of years without the comfort of civilization must already be sickening. As she got lost in her thoughts, a sound of rustling leaves jolted back her attention. She stared at the direction of the rustling waves, but there was no one around, even a stray animal. She started to get afraid, and she woke Hayri again.


    "Louise, my thighs are getting numb already," Jane lied; there was really something strange in the environment.


    Hayri forced his eyes to open up. He moved to his side, then with one hand on the ground, he lifted his body. Sitting this time beside Jane, he roamed his eyes beyond the hills and felt the deafening silence around them. He was quiet for a while, as if he got lost in his thoughts. When he opened his mouth to speak, Jane got taken aback.


    "Jane, tell me. Have you moved on?"


    Jane did not answer for a few seconds. She was too lost for the right words. "I must."


    "That''s not my question. You know what I mean," Hayri insisted, not smiling at all.


    "I have because I knew it from the beginning that everything between us was just plain friendship. Adrian never promised anything even after committing to the engagement."


    Hayri did not say a word for a while, but he replied with a nod. He seemed to be contemplating something.


    "How about you?" Jane added to fill in the silence.


    Hayri smirked and chuckled afterward. "It was difficult at first because I never thought she is married, but distance and hard efforts did some wonders. I can finally look at them in the eyes. And I learned that acceptance is the key."


    "That''s right," Jane agreed with a pursed smile, and Hayri held her hand. Whatever Hayri implied with his touch that made her uncomfortable, Jane forced her mind to believe that it meant nothing else.


    Just as Jane was about to stand up, the rustling of the leaves got louder, and a man came out from the thick foliage. Jane''s heart almost jumped out in fear as she saw that the man was holding a gun in his right hand. Hayri was also quick to straighten up and pulled Jane close to him.


    "I don''t mean any harm but in one condition," the man said, running his sharp gaze at them.


    "My people call me Mr. Blacksmith," he continued, not leaving their eyes even for a second.


    Hayri tightened his hold on Jane''s hand. He knew who was Mr. Blacksmith, the greatest protector of the most active insurgents of the country known as ''The Velvet Fighters''.


    "Mr. Blacksmith, may we know the condition?" Hayri dared to ask without a hint of fear in his eyes.


    Hayri''s expression showed that he was familiar with the movement Mr. Blacksmith was in. He then moved his eyes and glued it to Jane.


    "Save my son."

 Chapter 258 - Home In Molave 4

    Jane watched Cherry taking off her feet from the zipline platform. With a squeal from the top of her lungs, she waved a hand as her harness glided through the cable. She even stretched out her arm and took a picture of herself before taking in the beautiful scenery beneath her. She was always the adventurous and fearless type, the positive characteristics she possessed,  grounding her resiliency. Once she decided to leave something behind, she never looked at it again with a heavy heart. The only thing she was not able to let go for a long time was her heartache against her mom. However, the moment she forgave her, she never recalled anything about the past. Their relationship was good as new, as if untarnished and unbroken.


    "Where does her adventurous spirit comes from?" Gerald Dioko''s voice startled Miss Perez as she also watched her daughter gliding through the cable.


    Miss Perez looked down and glanced at Mr. Dioko. "Perhaps, from her father, because I am not that brave and courageous."


    "If you don''t mind, Miss Perez-" Mr. Dioko started to bring out another subject but Miss Perez cut her off.


    "Just call me by my name. I''m Rose, Cherry Rose," she smiled, amused at the similarity of the names.


    "If that''s the case, then please call me by my name, also."


    "Gerald," Rose mentioned it, drawing a smile of approval from Mr. Dioko.


    "What''s your question again, please?"


    Gerald chuckled before repeating his question. He knew it was something confidential.


    "I was just wondering where is Cherry''s father now if you don''t mind."


    Rose drew in a lungful of air before she answered. "The last time I heard was that he was with his new family in the States."


    "Has he not asked about her daughter''s whereabouts?" Gerald did not hold his curiosity, and he was happy that Rose answered his questions.


    "Ever since he left me several years ago, we no longer had communications. His parents did not mention anything about him, either."


    Gerald nodded and continued, "Why haven''t you remarried?"


    "Nobody''s interested in settling down with a playgirl when I was younger," Rose looked at Gerald straight in the eyes, and there was full sincerity in the way she held his gaze.


    "Perhaps, you''re not also giving yourself a chance."


    Rose replied with a burst of mirthless laughter. "I don''t believe in love. Gerald, can we move on to another subject? We are already too old to talk about such kind of topic."


    "Go, Allie!" shouted Jane across them, cutting off entirely the subject that Rose wanted to change. All of them looked up, including Hayri, as Allie put on her helmet and allowed Ajie and the guide to help her with the harness.


    Hayri''s heart pounded. He used to be so protective of Allie before, not even allowing her to go anywhere without him. And now Ajie is helping her with the protective gear.


    "Careful, d-dear," Hayri was about to hold back his endearment, but even his subconscious self had been so used to calling her that way. He knew it was everybody''s affectionate word, but for him, it still implied something deeper.


    Jane, on the other hand, felt nervous about Allie. She had not seen the daring side of her yet. However, as soon as her foot lifted from the platform, she even stretched her arms wide and waved at them while screaming in excitement. Ajie followed her calmly, indicating that he was already an expert in ziplining.


    "Jane, let''s go," urged Hayri, placing a hand on her shoulder.


    "No!" protested Jane, shaking her head vigorously with a peal of laughter,  pinning her feet to the ground.


    "Why? I''m here."


    "I have a fear of heights."


    "Then start overcoming it. I''ll be with you, let''s glide together."


    Jane held his gaze for a while, contemplating whether she would go or not. She laughed and shook her head again but no longer resisted when Hayri pulled her gently towards the platform.


    Jane and Hayri climbed up the platform and allowed the guide to put on them their helmet, gloves, and full-body harness. After having their safety locks checked, Jane looked at Hayri in his full gear. He seemed so tall, lean, and handsome in his sporty built. Her sense of nervousness started to creep inside her, but Hayri gave her his reassuring look. She laughed, although her voice quivered, hoping to calm down her erratic heartbeats.


    Facing Jane, and holding her hand, Hayri gave her a wide grin before pulling off his feet from the edge of the platform. With a loud shriek and a push from the guide, Jane glided fast along the cable with Hayri. Hayri laughed loud this time, never leaving his gaze away from Jane.


    "Ahhhhhh!"


    "Look down and take in the scene! It''s beautiful," urged Hayri once they slowed down on the middle part.


    Jane nervously looked down and squealed again once she realized how high they were. She felt her intestines also dropped down and rolled out, constricting her airways. Shouting louder gave her a sense of relief as she drew more air in the end.


    "Isn''t it?"


    "It is. Yeheey! I made it! I made it!"


    Mrs. Lopez clapped her hands and squealed as she watched Jane. Mr. Angelo did the same, and his shouts of encouragement and cheers were even louder than his wife.


    "Go, Jane! Louise, boy!"


    As soon as they both disappeared from their sight, Mrs. Lopez tugged her husband''s sleeve.


    "Angelo, do you think our Jane and Louise would make a good pair?"


    Mr, Angelo squinted his eyes as he gave his wife a long stare, startled at her question. His mind started to recall the scenes of Jane and Hayri together. He was so used to seeing them together that he never gave a different meaning to their closeness. He then felt tickled at the idea and chuckled.


    "How I wish, dear. The best relationship is one that is founded by a beautiful friendship."


    The night came. Exhausted by their activities throughout the day, all of them retired early to their beds after dinner. Even the farmers in their huts put off the lights on their kerosene lamps early. Their full stomach after a tiring day induced them to sleep early. Leo and Issa also treated them to a sumptuous dinner, and the red wine afterward was like a sleeping balm.


    When midnight came, the farmers heard footsteps outside. Nobody moved, pretending that they did not hear the pulling of the sacks of corn under their huts. The sound then progressed to lifting-sacks- like-sound and dropping it to the shoulders.


    During harvest, Leo intentionally left sacks of rice outside the huts. He knew that in one of the ravines, there were men in hiding who also needed some food. They may not have harmed his crops, but sometimes, they reaped his produce ahead. Leo understood their needs, and even without communicating with these people, he thought about them.


    Under the canopy of a tree outside Leo''s lawn, a man wrapped an eight-year-old boy with another jacket.


    "Son, I have told you this many times already. As I said, I can no longer bring you along with me. Someday, you''ll understand that our lives are in danger. I want to spare you from all of this. I promise to take you back when everything is over."


    The boy did not reply but threw his little arms around his father''s neck, followed by his stifled sobs. The man hugged his son tighter in return while holding his breath to keep his tears from falling.


    "I''ll leave you here as soon as the day breaks. Do you still remember the name?"


    The boy nodded. "Yes, dad. Dr. Jane Lopez."

 Chapter 259 - Home In Molave 5

    Madani, from the word ''madanihon'', which means attractive in English, was one of the big islands that contributed to the country''s economy through its abundant natural resources like minerals and oil. Whatever was beneath the seafloor, the place was a wonder of flowing minerals and oil. Long before the discovery of this natural wealth, Madani family solely but legally owned the island according to the ancient methods of acquiring properties.


    Situated in a remote part of the country, the Madani''s ruled the place for more than a hundred years. Its geological location where it sat above a fault line and facing a common typhoon path, great typhoons, and earthquakes were always its natural phenomena. With such worst conditions, other people refused to live on that island for fear of being buried alive or tossed to the open sea.


    However, the Mandanis learned to adapt to the situations and soon grew into a big family. When the local government imposed strict compliance to educate their children, the parents sent their children to town until many of them came back as professionals. Some of these offsprings who took interests related to biology and chemistry discovered the wealth of their place, and soon, trading of minerals like gold, diamond, and jade became the island''s contribution to the region''s economy. Politics was then formed, but it was a monopoly of the Mandanis.


    The population grew big, and so did their treasury, that they began purchasing the surrounding islands. Schools, business establishments, trading platforms, and health care facilities rose from these places, making the Mandani Islands a vast community. Through intermarriages, several lineages mingled into the Mandani clan, and therefore, the beginning of chaos, envy, and l.u.s.t for wealth and power that tarnished the once harmonious community.


    When the half-Mandanis came to rule, division of the people''s interests and loyalty occurred and caused internal strifes. And these internal strifes created different kinds of a faction that ruled the Mandanis in alternative terms. Among those rebellious factions was led by Markus Mandani, who won seventy percent of the people''s sympathy. When he became the leader of the entire Mandani Islands, he wrote a proposal to the country''s president, asking for Mandani''s independence as a separate entity.


    The said proposal stayed throughout the rule of different presidents until their unheard request created threats through bombings and unjustified killings from various insurgencies. Drug distribution became rampant, and alliances with varying types of syndicates made Madani a modern Sodom and Gomorrah.


    However, in a later generation, there was a silent group that worked underground to restore the peace and harmony of the Madani. The group composed of professionals who built and strengthened their organization away from the prying eyes of the Madani leaders. They expanded through the recruitment of supporters and volunteers with the mission to end up the corruption and the dirty government of Madani.


    Through the leadership of the one called Mr. Blacksmith, they named their group, "The Velvet Fighters". The organization, however, made its name through its front goals and objectives, such as youth leadership training and community services, preparing its volunteers for the future responsibilities of becoming efficient leaders of the nation. They did not oppose any legislation but identified themselves as government supporters. Yet, somewhere beneath the deep ravines of Molave, Mr. Blacksmith, the great-great-grandson of the Madani''s, carried out the real objective of the organization.


    ______


    One time, while attending a meeting of the most trouble-making faction of the Madani led by Markus Madani III, Charles Madani, who hid through a pen name, Mr. Blacksmith, seated himself at the back. None of them around knew that he ran an organization that would someday topple down this corrupt inc.u.mbent government. With a steaming coffee pot in front of him, he poured himself a cup, put some packs of creamer and sugar then leaned his back on the seat. He then opened his phone, and the beautiful smile of a woman on its wallpaper greeted him. A smile curved on his lips as he stared at her, his mind whispering his obsession to his heart.


    "Someday soon, you''ll be mine, Dr. Jane."


    "Dr.Charles, are we ready?" the voice of Markus III addressing him, broke his reverie.


    Charles glanced up and repositioned himself in an elegant poise, stopping the heartbeats of some ladies around who were long craving for his attention.


    "Sure," Charles nodded and replied, his s.e.xy voice resonated within the closed space.


    "Dr. Charles, Sir Nelson, and everyone here around," Markus started his agenda by greeting the potential leaders first, "we all know that with the incapacities of Mr. Te, our second hope crumbled down."


    The heaving of stifled gasps filled the air as soon as they heard Mr. Te''s name.


    "First, our partnership with him ended through the collapse of Kamelyo Mega Lab, and now, the end of Myrtle Shade special formula. Speaking of Myrtle Shade, the formulation was a secret recipe of Mr. Te. We have also found out that Marco, his trustee, and his men took suicide during an encounter with police officers."


    "Can we send samples for chemical identification?" Mr. Nelson Madani, one of the leaders, spoke out.


    Markus cast his gaze on Dr. Charles, who was raising his cup to his mouth.


    "Dr. Charles, our biological scientist, can give us the best answer."


    Charles put down his cup and wiped his mouth with a table napkin before he stood up and explained.


    "I tested the sample several times and identified a certain ingredient. However, what I cannot tell as of this moment, is the source."


    With everyone''s eyes in his direction, he continued. "I tried to reach out to Mr. Ryan Yu, thinking that he was Mr. Te''s successor, but I learned that they have no blood relation at all. He was even finding pieces of evidence that could extend the sentence of Mr. Te. The man had so many sins against him for hiding his son away from him, stealing his parent''s property, and keeping them inside a cave for many years. The only source of information that could have helped us was Marco."


    Sighs of frustration erupted within the enclosed space, and Charles sat back on his chair after making an apology. His thoughts went back to the time when he tried to establish a connection with Ryan on the cruise to Japan. He was about to approach him on a coffee shop and introduce himself, but the epitome of beauty and intelligence, as how she was described on tabloids and magazines, came in to sit down across him.

 Chapter 260 - Home In Molave 6

    With his line of work, Dr. Charles was sure he would find a way to know the sources of Myrtle Shade''s special formula. Yet, knowing that this would only feed the hunger of those who are craving for more evil transactions, he always came up with alibis. While it was true that invading the Te''s privacy was difficult, Mr. Te was also known as a dangerous man. Adding to the hindrances was the tight security of the Chara Islands as, like Madani''s, it was monopolized by the Tes. Aside from that, the family got the full rights of security and confidentiality as they were the leading manufacturer of regulated drugs and that their laboratory was in the area.


    What surprised him the most was the apparent connection between Ryan and Dr. Jane. Oblivious to her, his growing affection for her started when he got a crush on her while they were still in college. They went to the same university, but unfortunately, Jane was always aloof to everybody, and her world rotated only around her books. He knew about her relationship with Hayri as her best friend, and he himself could attest to the fact that there was nothing more between them aside from mere friendship.


    However, his father had him married to a distant relative. He started to forget Jane and focused on his married life, business, and profession. Sadly, when his wife was about to deliver their son, she died due to an incident initiated by Markus Madani.


    _____


    Under the cave beneath the thick foliage of the huge trees in Molave heights, Charles checked the black metal box that he and his partners were working on. Some of them were the nuclear physicists of the original Madani clan, designing types of lightweight bombs they would plant in the fault line beneath the Madani Islands. They did not create hydrogen bombs with millions of megatons, but the types of a bomb that would be enough to cause tectonic earthquakes to chase away these monster leaders from their zones of abundance and wealth.


    "Markus, this is for you!" laughed Charles as he ran his fingers on the sleek surface of the bomb. "And Riza, this is for the justice I promised on your deathbed."


    "Charles," a voice behind him and a tap on his shoulder jolted Charles from his plan concentration, "are you ready for this? How about your son?"


    Charles knew that this project to kill also meant their death, but until now, he couldn''t think of a better idea about where he should place his child. His fingers went to touch the pendant lying above his chest. Dr. Elson Madani, his trusted cousin leading the group of nuclear physicists, followed his eyes on the sparkling diamond in velvet shade.


    "Your discovery on velvet diamonds will only go to the greedy hands if you won''t be able to find a diamond-hearted woman."


    During his search for more minerals on one of the islands, his forefathers bought, Dr. Charles discovered the velvet diamonds. Since he was an only son, and most of his cousins were followers of Markus, he could never entrust his only child to them. Elson, who was his only cousin who sided with the right, pledged him his loyalty, and so if in the process Charles would die, he would also die with him. They did this, not only out of their hatred of the inc.u.mbent government but in the name of their family, who worked hard for the beautiful legacy of the Madani.


    A blazing red light and a vibrating sound made them look up into the surveillance monitor. It was their way of monitoring the possible invaders into their hidden laboratory.


    "It''s a group of horse riders from the resort," Elson commented after glancing at the monitor.


    "Yes."


    "Dad, look. My teacher!" butted Kyle who also ran to see who was on the monitor.


    ______


    When the silver lining of the sky started to break, Charles hugged his son Kyle again. Kyle was already in the brink of crying but he tried so hard to hold back his tears.


    "Son, I will be watching you from a distance because the farmers are already awake. Do not  forget my number because even if you lost your phone, you could still reach me, okay?"


    "Yes, dad, as long as you promise to visit me," the child''s voice started to crack but he pulled his brows together to keep himself from crying.


    "I will. That''s a promise."


    "I will not cry anymore?" Lifting his eyes to look at his father, Kyle''s eyes started to get red, but he held his breath this time to stop the tears. His dad always reminded him to be brave and he should show him that he was.


    "My son is brave, right?" Charles smiled as he hugged his son again for the hundred times. He already wanted to give up and cry, but he didn''t want his son to see that his courage was wavering. He didn''t want him to be afraid. He had already succeeded in preparing his mind for his new home, where he could have peace and freedom. This may be only temporary, but in his heart, he knew it could be forever. If luck is on his side, he could also chase his long time dream- to have Jane in his life. According to his source, she broke up her engagement and remained single as of this moment.


    At precisely four in the morning, the men who accompanied Charles had already placed their sacks at the back of their horses. The farmers also started to come out of their huts and built fires on their make-shift stone stoves to cook their breakfast. Kyle just remained sitting down on the bench, hugging his backpack until Issa came out of the house and saw him.


    Issa stood frozen on the ground; the memories and that overwhelming feeling when she saw Ajie on the bench way back when he was yet a child, came back. She stared at him, and the boy also stared back.


    "Boy, are you alone?" Issa said when she finally recovered from her deja vu. Looking around before the boy could answer, she saw no one.


    She was about to ask again, but the sound of a coming car stopped her. Soon, she saw Dr. Jane coming out and walked towards them. Her eyes immediately fell on the boy who sat at the bench, wrapped in a black windbreaker and a cap on his head.


    "Boy?" Jane called out as she squinted through the dark. The surroundings were still pitch-black, and the flickering light of the lamps was the only source of light illuminating them.


    "Teacher?" Kyle replied, and he immediately jumped down the bench and ran towards them. Stunned, Jane stopped from her tracks and stared at the boys with a look of disbelief.


    "Kyle? Is it you? I can''t believe this," Jane exclaimed, thinking about the dreadful things Hayri told about the group called, ''The Velvet Fighters''. Who would ever expect that one of her students was the son of the rumored faceless Mr. Blacksmith?

 Chapter 261 - Home In Molave 7

    Charles watched Jane as she hugged his son. Seeing him on safe arms, he gestured for the others to go. With the clear image of his face in his mind, he tightly squeezed his legs against the body of the horse and commanded it to gallop. Somehow, the speed of their run and the cold wind slapping against his body lightened the heavy load inside his heart.


    "Thanks for remembering me, teacher," the soft voice of the child pricked Jane''s heart. Why should his father involve himself in such kind of movement when he knew it affects his child?


    Jane released Kyle from her embrace and lifted up his chin to look at her. "I should be the one thanking you for still remembering me. Are you not afraid to be with me?"


    Kyle shook his head, and with a shy smile, he answered, "No, teacher. Daddy and I talked about it already. He will visit me anyway when he can."


    A situation like this always hurt Jane. Children should not suffer separation anxiety at this age. They should be lavished with love and care so that they would grow up as confident individuals in the future. The pain registering on Charles'' expression reappeared at the back of her mind, and she understood the danger of his situation. Fate forbid, but the possibility of not seeing his child again was high.


    As if Hayri had read her mind, he startled her when he butted in. "Kyle, from now on, teacher Jane is your mommy, and I am your second daddy. Later, we will bring you to Chloe so that you two can play."


    This touched Jane emotionally, and nothing could express the joy she felt that Hayri understood the child''s emotional needs. She looked up to him and held his arm, her eyes filled with messages of unspoken gratitude.


    "Thank you," was all she could mumble out of a heart overflowing with emotion.


    They bid goodbye to Issa and returned to the resort with Kyle. Hayri accompanied them to Jane''s room and watched how she tenderly handled the child. As soon as she changed him into his sleepwear, it did not take long for him to drift into sleep. Jane then accompanied Hayri on the couch as they both silently watched Kyle on the bed, both absorbed into their separate thoughts.


    For who knew how long, Hayri broke the silence.


    "Jane, have you forgotten that we both grow up without our moms? So, more than anyone else, we understand Kyle better."


    Jane pursed a smile, and Hayri gathered her in his arms. "Jane, you should have a child of your own. Your compassion to the children deserves you to become a mother to many children."


    Jane broke free from Hayri and squinted her eyes as she gave him a long stare. "Really, Louise? Do you want me to hire a man for a one-night-stand? I wish for a real husband, a happy family. If I''m not granted such a wish, I could be a mother image to children such as Kyle. Then perhaps, I''ll organize an orphanage."


    The tingling sound of Jane''s laughter that followed never brought a smile to Hayri''s lips. He stared back at her with a complicated emotion he couldn''t define.


    "Jane, I don''t know how to put this into words but-"


    "What?"


    "Jane, we know each other so well ever since we were kids-"


    "And then?" Jane could almost predict what he would say next, and her heartbeats started to pick up.


    "I mean, why won''t we try to be, to be more than friends?"


    "Hayri, stop it."


    "Look, Jane. Base on what is happening around, I could no longer trust myself to just anyone. And I don''t want you to put your life at stake, as well, with any stranger you''ll come across with."


    "Hayri-"


    "Jane, listen," Hayri cut her off before she could stop the subject completely, "you are already special to me. I think it won''t be difficult for us to fall in love."


    Hayri finally nailed it, and Jane could feel her heart on her throat. Before she could find the right words, Hayri sealed her lips with his mouth in a light kiss that gradually deepened.


    Taken aback, Jane stiffened and got breathless that she unconsciously placed both her hands and pushed Hayri away. Hayri stopped and allowed her to breathe, but as soon as her breathing returned to normal, he cupped her face and kissed her again.


    Hayri was not forcing, but Jane was not also stopping him. Despite the scream of protest inside her mind, she felt her strength leaving her, and she acted like a robot submitting willingly to the kiss. Human as Hayri was, Jane''s submission awakened his desire. He deepened the kiss, loosening her only when he felt her becoming breathless. He sucked on her lips, probed his tongue deeper until his hands moved over her arms and shoulders.


    Jane got lost in the tide for a while, but when his hands started to creep into her b.r.e.a.s.ts, Jane jolted back to reality. She couldn''t go on like this. Jane felt a sense of self-pity, a feeling of being taken-for-granted. This was not the kind of love she wanted- not asked, not begged, not tried. She desired an impulse, the sort of feeling that makes one wake up in the morning, realizing that she is already feeling in love with someone.


    A tear slid from her eyes, and she hurriedly brushed it away. Looking up to Hayri with an awkward smile, she started to explain.


    "Hayri, I''m sorry. I could not allow this."


    "Jane..."


    "Please, go out. I want to be alone."


    "Jane," Hayri tried to assure Jane, but he didn''t know how to put it into words. He stood up and looked at her with begging eyes. Yet, the anger on Jane''s expression made him guilty. He should have waited. He should have allowed themselves to fall in love naturally, but he was scared.


    Hayri went out with a heavy heart and a sense of regret. He made a wrong move again, and he knew it would take time to heal. Torn with remorse and confusion, he wandered. Two questions tortured his mind - should he persist, or should he give them both space?

 Chapter 262 - Home in Molave 8

    Everyone had already gathered at one of the restaurant''s tables when Hayri walked into the room. Out in the corner of his eyes, he saw Jane with Kyle on her side. For all honesty, Jane was special to her ever since they were kids but this was the first time he ever got emotionally disturbed about her, He knew it was far from the affection he had for Allie, yet he could also tell that this was something strange.


    "Good morning, everyone," Hayri greeted with a thin smile, running his eyes to each one of them while getting replies in chorus.


    "Louise, here," Jane called out and gave him an awkward glance, "sit beside Kyle."


    Hayri pulled out the chair next to Kyle, patted his head and smiled at him.


    "Hello, boy! How''s your sleep?" Hayri asked, unable to think of another question to break the awkwardness.


    "I had a long one," answered the boy, passing him a shy look.


    "That''s good so that you will grow as tall as daddy, right baby girl?" Hayri meant himself as he moved his gaze from Kyle to Chloe.


    Chloe''s eyes widened and she voiced out what others wanted to ask at the moment. "My new friend''s daddy is also big and tall, daddy Hayri?"


    Hayri chuckled at how Chloe addressed him this time. Until that moment, she still had no fix decision about how to address her permanently. Ajie insisted on letting her call him daddy while others referred to him as an uncle.


    "Right there, baby girl. From now on, don''t call me an uncle anymore. Yes, I am an uncle but you can also call me daddy because the uncles care for their nieces and nephews like their daddies."


    Chloe threw him a puzzled stare and Hayri got amused. "Don''t give me that look, baby girl. The second reason is that I also want Kyle to call me daddy, right Kyle?"


    Kyle nodded with bashful eyes and a thin voice. "Yes, dad."


    Chloe''s eyes shone brighter and got wider when she heard Kyle. "Oh, wow, that''s wonderful Kyle! I won''t be alone anymore."


    Chloe earned herself a round of laughter from all of them. She pouted in shame but Ajie butted in as he shoved a spoonful of rice into her mouth.


    "Who said you''re alone? Baby Ralph will also do the same."


    "But he is not talking yet!" Chloe started to argue just as the baby''s babbling sound floated from the doorframe.


    "Da-da-da..." cooed the baby that Allie held upright in her arms, exiting another round of laughter.


    "Heard it, baby girl? The baby calls me dada!"


    Allie laughed out loud and the rest followed. It was obvious that she had been listening throughout their conversation.


    "Smart boy," Cherry commented, "he knows his big sister needs affirmation." The laughter seemed endless as all replies and shares of opinions got the same wave of laughter.


    Ajie stood up and turned to Allie, reaching out his hands to take the baby from her. "Give me the cutie so that you can eat."


    "No, just finished your meal first." Allie shook her head and pushed Ajie''s arm gently, showing him to the table again.


    ''No, both of you need to eat. Give me the chubby chick. I''m already dying to squeeze him," Hayri offered and stood up, striding quickly towards Allie.


    "Are you sure?" Allie chuckled, looking up at him. He was too lean and tall for a chubby infant.


    "Of course, dear. You know me better," said Hayri unconsciously but regretted it the moment he saw how it changed Allie''s expression. But how could he change their mutual familiarity when they were together for six long years?


    Jane also looked up and cringed inwardly as she heard them. Even if she considered the possibility of Hayri and her in the future, he could never give her the kind of affection he had for Allie. And this thought made her uncomfortable, she better not take the risk.


    "How about you? Have you taken your breakfast?"


    Jane heard Allie asked in her concerned tone. She glanced at all of them without lifting her head. It seemed that everything was in its place and no one even raised a brow to question Allie''s motive. Not even Ajie who showed no signs of being affected at all.


    "No appetite yet."


    "Gosh, Hayri! Why do you always rely on your appetite-"


    "Alright, then. After you take yours," Hayri cut her off, it seemed she was about to start her endless lectures again.


    Allie threw a glare at him before she stomped off to the table beside Ajie, making Hayri giggle.


    "You see, baby boy? You should eat breakfast to spare your ears from getting hurt," mocked Hayri to a gaping child, with chubby cheeks dangling and beautiful eyes blinking.


    _____


    After the kids finish their breakfast, Chloe pulled Kyle over and brought him outside to play with her. Mr. Dioko did not waste a minute, he started to ask questions.


    "How sure are you that this Mr. Blacksmith is not a dangerous person?"


    Recently, during a campaign rally of the inc.u.mbent president and his whole line-up. a bombing incident happened across their neighboring district, leaving more than thirty people wounded and died. Investigations of this matter failed to trace the culprit, and later on, rumors had it that it came from a group led by a certain Mr. Blacksmith.


    "I made my own investigation, dad."


    Mr. Dioko''s brows gathered into one line. "You did your own investigation? For what?"


    "Because he seems related to the Madani''s, the business partner of Mr. Te in expanding Kamelyo''s market."


    Mr. Dioko''s jaw dropped. Why are his enemies revealing themselves only now?


    "And what did you find out?"


    "I find out that he leads the Velvet Fighters, an organization that trained the youth to become potential leaders of the society."


    Little did they expect, that with the coming of Kyle into their homes, their lives would never be the same again. And not only were they going to know who really was  Mr.Blacksmith was but also, a certain  Mr. Anonymous.


    note: unedited

 Chapter 263 - Home In Molave 9

    Mr. Lopez grew worried as he listened to the conversation. Of all people, why would Mr. Blacksmith choose Jane? This was the first time they had gone to this place. Could this mean that Mr. Blacksmith was stalking on them? He was always apprehensive about any youth organizations because it still turned out that, aside from the good cause as their front, they always had an underground movement.


    "Darling, of all the places in the county, why must Mr. Blacksmith  follow you here?" Jane''s mom voiced out what  Mr. Lopez had been thinking about.


    "I really don''t know, mom. I am happy though that Kyle is a former student in Beautiful Haven."


    Everyone fell silent as they all got lost in their thoughts. If Mr. Blacksmith sent Kyle to her school, it meant that Mr. Blacksmith had a deeper intention. It could mean he had a long-term plan brewing a long time ago.


    "Jane, I think, he knew you a long time ago. You could have met him at a university or somewhere-" Joanna started to state her analysis, and because she was a psychologist, everyone jumped into her conclusion.


    "I think so, too, and perhaps, he has a crush on you!" squealed Cherry, her outburst seemed out of the situation.


    Everyone froze for a second, but after realizing she could be right, they all burst out into a round of laughter.


    "And I am curious about his love story," Cherry added. Only she could insert a joke amid a serious conversation.


    "Cherry, stop it," irritated, Jane stopped her, but it ignited Cherry''s thrill further.


    "Hayri, what do you think?"


    Sour as a cream his heart may turn, Hayri forced himself to smile and reply, "Could be."


    "How could all of you be so dirty-minded? Who knows if he went through something, forcing him to leave his child to me randomly?"


    Before anyone could answer, Kyle and Chloe came back running. Cherry picked up her opportunity the moment it presented itself.


    "Kyle, can auntie ask something?"


    Kyle nodded without saying a word.


    "What does your dad say about leaving you to teacher Jane?"


    "He wants me to be safe."


    "Why does your dad choose teacher Jane? How  long did he plan on leaving you to her?"


    Kyle felt it was something his dad didn''t want him to tell anybody, but seeing the sea of faces looking up to him, he felt pressured.


    "Every time dad helps me with an assignment, he shows me his phone with teacher Jane''s photo and tells me that someday, she will become my mom."


    A shudder ran through Jane''s spine, and she rubbed her skin to ease it. He saw Hayri''s mouth dropped open as he stared at Kyle with an empty gaze. To end the topic, she stood up and asked permission to use the bathroom.


    Leo also stood up, and Issa followed. "We should also be going. The delivery truck will be here any minute. I will be sending the sacks of corn to the mill."


    "Let me help, Tay," Ajie offered, glancing at Hayri, who still held the baby. Allie still had morning routine to do, including Chloe''s usual routine and she wouldn''t be able to carry on without him.


    "Don''t worry, son. We can help in the care of the baby," Mrs.Lopez offered as he understood Ajie''s unspoken request.


    "Thanks, auntie. I also want to help uncle Leo."


    Soon, Ajie, Andrew, and Hayri helped in lifting the sacks of corn to the delivery truck while the delivery boys received and arranged it. It didn''t take long to empty the barn because the male farmers also helped.


    Gathering at the side of the road to rest, Hayri saw a pile of three sacks, and he went over to sit down on top of it. Others followed, finding themselves a rock or tree stump to sit on it. Leo approached them later as he helped Issa in carrying the bottles of cold drinks for them.


    "Uncle, I think you have forgotten to include these sacks," Hayri asked, pointing the sacks using his bowed head.


    "No, that is already milled I ordered the delivery staff to bring. Those are for the boys."


    "Boys?" Ajie wondered what he meant because he saw how Leo distributed the farmers'' share of the harvest.


    "A group of young boys is living deep down the ravines. One time, I received a letter from them, informing me that they harvested some of my crops for their food consumption. Since then, I always give them a share of the harvest."


    The three young men stared at each other in utter shock. It meant he had been feeding them for a long time already. They all concluded silently that the group might be the insurgents led by Mr. Blacksmith. His code name was familiar, but nobody knew the person behind the pen name yet.


    "Uncle, are they bothering the people?" Hayri wanted to know if there was also an underground movement coming from the famous "Velvet Fighters".


    "I never heard any incident before. Aside from that, only a few of the farmers know about them."


    ___


    Returning later to the resort to prepare for the next activity, Ajie and Hayri saw a car stopping at the entrance. After giving them a short glance, they ignored it and proceeded to the small gate for the people''s entrance. A few minutes later, the guard opened up the gate, and the car entered. Three men came out and walked straight toward the reception area.


    "Miss, I would like to book three rooms for three days," they heard one of the men talking to the receptionist.


    "Here, sir," in her warmest smile, the receptionist handed them a catalog so that they could choose their type of accommodation.


    Ajie and Hayri stared at each other. Without an open sharing of their thoughts, they unintentionally felt something odd towards the guest. They sauntered and tried to eavesdrop. However, Hayri slumped on the couch in front of the reception area and heaved out a deep sigh, pretending he was tired. Ajie followed and sat next to him, observing his next move.


    Spreading his arms on the couch, Hayri closed his eyes. Having nothing to do, Ajie picked up a magazine and scanned the pages, observing the men through the corners of his eyes. Then, he saw one of the men turned and stared at Hayri for a long while. Ajie could guess he was in his early thirties, possessing a commanding aura.


    "Louis Dioko?"


    Hayri opened his eyes, and the man''s smiling face greeted his eyes.


    "Markus Mandani!"

 Chapter 264 - Home In Molave 10

    "It''s good to see you here, classmate! On vacation?" asked Marcus after giving Hayri a tap on his shoulder.


    "Yes," Hayri replied, saying nothing more than a wide grin.


    "It''s good to know that we both found out about this resort. I just want to breathe fresh air. It''s been a while staying on a city and back to the island," Markus meant the Madani Island owned by his clan.


    "I see."


    "What brought you here?" Markus persisted despite the apparent disinterest in Hayri''s part.


    "This is the hometown of my brother-in-law, so, it''s not just a vacation, it''s more of a family reunion."


    "I''m happy to know about it. How about a chat over coffee later?"


    "Sure."


    "See you then."


    Markus and his companion went to find their rooms while the whole family left for that day''s tour on a fruit farm. Aside from the corn, Ajie knew that his parents owned coconut, mango, and banana plantation. Stopping before a multiple-hectare farm with rows of green and thorny cacti, Ajie''s eyes glowed in surprise and awe. The round-to-oblong, magenta-red scaly fruits hang on every stalk, giving an attractive red-and-green glow against the glaring sun.


    "Dragon fruit?" Ajie exclaimed, his eyes filled with a strong admiration for his parents.


    Leo smiled before he answered, "Yes, I bought this property with the money you give us. Dragon fruit is one of the current demands in the market, so I did not let the opportunity pass by when it knocked on our door."


    "I agree. If I had the farming inclination, I would also grab the opportunity. The fruit is known for its high content of nutrients and antioxidants, that''s why it is in demand," Mrs. Lopez commented.


    "Wow! How I wish I can try eating it fresh from its stalk," Jane exclaimed, her mouth watered at the thought of its white, juicy flesh dotted with tiny black seeds.


    "Why not?" Issa answered, and right away, she led them into the farm cottage.


    Having everyone find their seats, the caretakers went to pluck out fruits. Jane followed out of her curiosity, and so did Cherry and the kids. While she cut the fruit with her deft hands, she also explained, making the ladies gape in awe.


    "Dragon fruit, also known as Pitaya, grows well in dry areas. Its white, bell-shaped flowers only bloom during the night, that''s why it is also called, "Lady of the Night" or "moonflower".


    While no one raised a voice to ask, the caretaker continued, "It''s sweet fragrance diffuse while the flowers are blooming. The meat of the fruit can either be red or white, dotted with Kiwi-like seeds, but it''s edible."


    "Can I eat plenty of it?" Chloe opened her eyes wide again, a skill she had used to amuse or bewitched her audience.


    "Of course, you can. Your grannies own the farm, anyway."


    The ladies laughed and commented in unison as they followed the caretaker again back to the cottage. "We will also eat as much we can."


    "We are praying for a successful harvest because we hope to be able to buy a pickup car this time," Leo announced happily. "We are already too old to use our horses as a means of transportation."


    Ajie felt guilty at his father''s news, and his heart sank even more when Allie looked at him with confronting eyes. How could he be so inconsiderate about it? The truth was, it never occurred to him until that moment.


    "Tay, Nay, I''m so sorry. Perhaps, it''s because we are so used to our old ways that I have overlooked this matter. You don''t have to wait for a harvest. I will buy a car and delivery trucks for you. My wife is killing me now with her looks."


    Ajie''s eyes blurred with unshed tears as he hooked an arm around Allie''s shoulders.


    "Thank you, son, but your father can afford it. Only that he always spare a budget to prepare for farming calamities."


    "I will also buy one for you. I may not be earning as much as Adrian but we already have more than enough savings," Andrew also offered, his heart torn with a sense of pity.


    "Okay, I will not buy the car but farming machinery, instead," Ajie said, then he turned to Andrew, "Brod, if you plan to start a business, don''t hesitate to come to me."


    "I already have that in mind. Thank you so much for offering it first."


    Ajie smiled and replied, "That''s what siblings are for."


    Andrew glistened right away after that heartwarming words. If only he could turn back the time, he would never hurt Ajie again. He remembered how Ajie always gave way for him, even with the scholarship budget, which was supposedly his during their high school days.


    The caretaker then spread the first sliced, fresh dragon fruit on the table. Everyone got a piece except Hayri, who became too busy in cooing his nephew. He saw Jane took a bite of her juicy slice, and his mouth watered. He stood up and sat beside Jane. As she was about to raise her hand to take another bite, Hayri grabbed her arm and pulled her hand to his mouth, instead.


    Jane''s eyes grew wide as she got conscious of the eyes thrown in her direction, and Chloe giggled hard in seeing her.


    "I''m sorry I can''t wait," Hayri also laughed and raised a hand to Chloe, and the girl met it with her little palm. At the sound of a clap and a wink from Hayri, Chloe giggled again.


    "Yuck, Hayri! I already bit it," Jane exclaimed, in her effort to stop a rise of suspicion. However, Hayri bent her head and whispered something to her ear.


    "I didn''t think about that when we kissed, and I even want more of it."


    Jane looked up, annoyed, but Hayri responded with an ear-to-ear grin. Jane knew everybody was watching them. Somehow, she was glad and thankful that nobody seemed to care. However, Cherry picked up a bottle, stood up, and faced no one. With a hand gesture like she was strumming a guitar, she lifted her beautiful voice and sang.


    "If only your eyes can tell what my heart wants to say...


    If only my lips get the courage to speak,


    It would have said those words I long to shout..."


    Andrew also stood up and tapped the table in a rhythmic sound like he was playing the piano. With his resonant voice, he also lifted his voice for a duet with Cherry.


    "...I would have said, "I love you" a long time ago."


    Everyone burst in laughter, adding more color to Jane''s flushed cheeks. To ease her sense of awkwardness, she commented,


    "I never heard before that dragon fruit can make one drunk."


    Their laughter increased, making the baby cry. Hayri touched the baby''s chin in an attempt to coax him. With a wider grin and an amused expression, Hayri looked into the eyes of the little one and said,


    "How can you be so innocent, my love?"


    With that, almost everyone cried in amus.e.m.e.nt while Jane almost fainted in embarrassment.

 Chapter 265 - Home In Molave 11

    Jane watched Kyle as he lay down on the bed. She wondered how Mr. Blacksmith prepared the mind of his son. It sounded unusual that Kyle never complained nor cried ever since that morning when his dad dropped him off.


    "Kyle, please tell me if you''ll miss your dad." Jane offered, taking a closer look at the child''s features, wondering how his parents looked.


    The child was fair-skinned and possessed attractive features like thin lips, a perfectly-shaped nose, and a heart-shaped face. Anyone who looked at him would take a second look, if not a stare. His parents must be both beautiful, passing their best genes to their son. Though she saw Mr. Blacksmith in person, he was wearing a bonnet and a pair of dark sunglasses at that time. However, if a man''s sturdy built, perfect height, and a body that any woman would want to touch could predict to a handsome face, then that''s it.


    "Okay, mom." Kyle answered, whispering the word "mom". He still felt uncomfortable in addressing her as his mom.


    "Does your dad often leave you?"


    "No, this is the first time."


    Jane got worried and surprised. It was really unusual that a child his age would not show any signs of homesickness.


    "Then why are you not missing him?"


    Without replying, Kyle got up from the bed and went to his closet. He was already holding out a phone when he got back on the bed.


    "He''s just a call away."


    Jane smiled and nodded, but it was not enough to convince her. "Place it on your bedside table so that you can hear if he calls."


    While he was tucking him on his bed, there was a knock on the door. As soon as she opened it, Hayri''s body filled the door frame.


    "May I come in?" Hayri''s tender eyes met hers, and she quickly looked away, opening the door wider for him.


    Hayri dropped himself on the couch while Jane sat at the edge of her bed. "You''re avoiding me?"


    Jane''s senses jolted at his question, and she furrowed her brows. "Why would I?''


    "You''re too far away."


    "The couch is too small to contain even yourself."


    "This used to contain the two of us."


    Not waiting for her to reply, Hayri stood up and pulled her to sit beside him. "I''m not going to eat you. I''m just not being used to talk to someone at some distance apart."


    "You''re paranoid. Who said I am avoiding you?"


    "You said it."


    "I never did."


    Harry laughed at how serious did Jane took his joke. His heart ached at the thought of her unreturned love for Ajie. She recalled how she mentioned it to him that Ajie never promised her anything and that he only consented to the marriage because of his gratitude to Mr. Lopez and of his anger to Allie. His heart had been shattered a thousand times also, but Allie was true to her commitment. He was the one who gave way even before he knew that he was her sister.


    When both of them got back to the couch, a smile twisted on his lips. He was glad everything was over between the six of them and that they could look at each other as if nothing happened. The spirit of a genuine family relationship was now binding them, and it was more precious than material wealth.


    "Jane, a classmate named Markus, invites me for a coffee. Can you go with me, please?"


    Hayri stretched his arms at the top of the backrest like he was placing an arm around Jane''s shoulder. He saw how Jane stiffened, and he got amused. It seemed like only a few hours ago when Jane gave no malice to their touches. She didn''t mind going out with him and spending long hours just for trivial chats. Jane was just afraid she would only be a cover-up, and he understood it well.


    "No, it''s going to be a men''s talk."


    "Please. It would be so boring to talk to him."


    Jane could not say no to his begging eyes. She also knew he wouldn''t get out if he wouldn''t win.


    "Okay, then."


    In his joy, he suddenly hugged her tight, sending Jane''s eyes upward. "I''ll wait for you outside."


    Jane hated herself. How could her heart go wild for just a friend? Why did his touch send pulses to her skin? She shook her head to lose herself from such thoughts. Changing into a pair of long pants and blouse, she picked up a jacket from the closet and left the room.


    Aside from the restaurant, the resort also had a coffee shop where tourists could spend long hours to chat and do business matters. Hayri was already there sitting before a table. Across him was a man who seemed to be of his age. It seemed like they were already talking about an important subject because the man was staring at Hayri with a serious expression.


    The door chimes sounded, and Hayri looked in her direction. He stood up when she got close to them and ushered her to the next seat beside him.


    "Jane, please meet Markus, my classmate in college," Hayri looked at her first then to Markus as he continued, "and Markus, this is Jane, my girlfriend."


    "Dr. Jane Lopez," Markus stood up right away and extended a hand to her, "who in this world doesn''t recognize the epitome of beauty and intelligence?"


    "I''m flattered. I hate the journalist who starts naming me as such."


    Jane sat down gracefully at her seat, retaining the smile on her lips. None of these men knew the unease she felt at Hayri''s introduction.


    "Dr. Jane, it''s not the journalist''s fault. It''s a survey."


    "Whatever," Jane smiled politely then looked up unconsciously at Hayri. Hayri gazed back at her with apparent glints of admiration in his eyes, earning a chuckle from Markus.


    "You''re so lucky, Louise. Earning the love of a woman like her is such a precious achievement."


    "I''m afraid you''re exaggerating, Mr. Markus-"


    Hayri cut her off and held her hand. "You''re right, Markus. She''s such a treasure."


    While Jane fidgeted in her seat, a hotel attendant came in with a bouquet of fresh, red roses.


    "Excuse me, ma''am, sir. This is for Dr. Jane Lopez."


    Jane creased her brows as she accepted the flowers. She opened the card and read the initials.


    "Thank you so much. DCM."

 Chapter 266 - Home In Molave 12

    "Intentional night delivery or the flower shop is late?" Markus chuckled at seeing Jane holding the flowers and placing it on the coffee table next to them.


    Jane shot a glance at Hayri, whose look turned sour for a moment. To keep up with their pretension, Jane stopped in front of Hayri, blocking Markus''s vision.  She then bent down and kissed Hayri on his forehead.


    "Thank you," said Jane, giving Hayri a wink, indicating her pretense.


    Hayri held her waist with both of his hands, but Markus cleared her throat to remind them of his presence. "You have ample time later."


    Hayri laughed softly as he released her. Jane then got back to her seat, followed by his eyes. As he saw to it that she was already seated comfortably, he gave his attention back to Markus.


    "Louis, is it alright to have Dr. Jane here?"


    "Of course. We''ll be marrying soon, and there should be no secrets between us. You can trust Jane as much as me."


    Jane felt tickled at how Hayri said it without stuttering. She covered her mouth with her hand to conceal her amus.e.m.e.nt.


    "Okay. This is still about my previous agendum. I am planning to discuss it with you. We, the Madani''s, are persistent with our proposal for independence. As we see, there is so much corruption in our government, and much of the people''s tax goes to waste. To maximize the people''s resources on our place, we seek for independence so that we could run our financial assets into something worthwhile that our people can benefit well."


    "However, the government objected to this proposal. To make them consider it, our secret organization has plans. I do not ask you to be part of this movement, but I am asking for your financial support."


    "Those supporters that we get will have their profit share once we achieve our objective. And mind you, Louise, you know about our overflowing natural resources. So the profit would be skyrocketing. You won''t regret it."


    "Markus, don''t get me wrong. Why do you still need financial support when you can very well afford it?"


    "Good question. It is for our alternative back up plan. Once the government locks our financial accounts, we can no longer move. Distribution and wiring of finances will then be frozen."


    "What if I will say no?" Hayri wanted to be sure.


    "We do not force anyone, but since we give you partial information, you would be subject to our monitoring if ever pieces of information leak out."


    "Markus, I would be frank. I''m already tired of this. You know what happened to dad. I don''t want to involve myself anymore in any of these. Please forgive me."


    Markus stood up and extended a hand to Hayri. "I understand, Louise. Just make it sure that whatever we discuss, will remain within the four corners of this room."


    "You can trust us."


    Hayri picked up the bouquet of red roses as they went out of the coffee shop. They went straight into Jane''s room.


    "I wonder who your admirer is?" Hayri said as he placed down the bouquet on a table.


    "I don''t know where that stuff comes from. I don''t have admirers, Louise, and I never had. Adrian was not even an admirer, and you know that."


    "You have hundreds, Jane, and there is even one closer to you now. Only that they cannot dare to approach you." How could such a beautiful and brilliant woman like Jane get her self-esteem low?


    "I don''t need fleeting admiration, Louise, and I will no longer entertain a divided affection. I''ve learned my lesson. You get my point?" Of course, she understood what he meant but she could no longer take the risk.


    "Of course."


    "Can you help me tell who owns that DCM initials?" Jane walked over to the table and pointed the initials to Hayri.


    "I have many things to thank you for, Jane, but it''s not me. I''m Louise Hayri Dioko, so that would be LHD."


    "Of course, I know. Crazy."


    "There''s only one person I can think of. I guess this belongs to Kyle''s daddy."


    Jane furrowed her brows as she gave Hayri a short stare. She opened her laptop and went to the file that kept the record of Kyle''s personal data. Looking down at the parent''s information detail, she found his name.


    Charles Madani, MD


    Jane''s heartbeat dubbed faster as she linked it to Markus Madani. His movement and his people''s unheard cries. Their threats and terrorism to get the government''s attention.


    Curious of what Jane was doing, Hayri sat beside her and also looked into the record she was opening.


    "How is he related to Markus Madani?" Jane asked, her fingers tapping continuously across her keypad.


    This may be something Markus did not give details, but anyone could fill in the blanks. They hurried and searched for the details of the news regarding the latest bombing incident. And to their surprise, this pointed to the group named "Ebony".


    "Jane, if he is indeed Mr. Blacksmith, he is connected to the Velvet Fighters, and this group has good intentions."


    "How sure are you? Look at Ebony''s mission and vision? It is also about solidarity and good governance." Jane glanced at Hayri


    "Because the intelligence unit always linked the incidents to Ebony."


    "Who is reliable enough nowadays? There are too many misleading news, destroying each other."


    "You''re right. Let''s just observe for now."


    Jane closed her laptop, and the non-disappearing crease in her forehead and her blank stares could tell she was bothered.


    "Jane, what is it?" Hayri pulled Jane''s chin after a long while of losing in her thoughts.


    "Hayri, I''m afraid. What if Mr. Blacksmith is a dangerous man? What if Kyle''s coming into our lives only invites trouble?"


    Hayri also thought about that. Not knowing who really Mr. Blacksmith was when he left Kyle to them, who could refuse his request made through a pointed gun? And the fact that Mr. Blacksmith planned to leave his son to her a long time ago could indeed scare Jane. What was his real intention in involving her?


    Seeing Jane''s bothered facade, he enclosed her with his arm. "This is our fight, Jane. Just make it  sure that whatever you will find, you''ll keep no secret between us."

 Chapter 267 - Home In Molave 13

    "Can''t you at least explain why were you pretending that I am your girlfriend?"


    Hayri''s lips curved into a smile in thinking how Jane went into the ride. "Because I love it that your kissing me and pretending I am also your boyfriend."


    Jane twisted a fatty layer of his skin at the side, and he winced in pain. "Is this how I should pay the kiss?"


    "Shut up. Hayri, please. I''m not kidding."


    "Okay, okay. My reason is that I don''t want Markus to set his eyes on you. He always has ways to get what he wants. And you know the kind of personality he has."


    Jane snapped in annoyance. "And do you think I could fall on just anybody? Do you think I''ll grab any chance to earn an admirer?"


    "I know, but I just want to be sure."


    "Hayri, you''re childish."


    "Call me whatever you like. It''s fine with me."


    "Okay, fine," Jane held out her hands in surrender and shrugged, "It''s already late, and we must go to sleep."


    "I''ll be sleeping here on the couch," Hayri said, stretching both of his legs and laid it on top of the armrest.


    "What?" Jane''s eyes popped up wide as he stared at her.


    "You heard me correctly."


    "Hayri, I need privacy. I don''t --"


    "...sleep with clothes on," Hayri continued it for her. "The more I have reasons to stay here. What if Markus would steal in and see you n.a.k.e.d?"


    "You''re paranoid."


    "Just being protective."


    Jane sighed in frustration, and Hayri felt guilty. "Okay, I''ll go to my room and promise me that you will wear a complete set of decent sleepwear."


    "Okay. I''ll check later."


    Jane quickly changed into a set of leggings and shirt before she slid into the bed. She did not lock the door intentionally because she knew that Hayri would really be true to his words. A few minutes after, Hayri did come back indeed, to check on her. She felt flattered.


    "Let me see."


    "No."


    "I''ll kiss you."


    "No."


    "Then, let me see."


    Hayri''s face lit up into a warm smile when he saw what Jane wore. "Good night, Jane."


    _____


    Exhausted throughout the day, Jane drifted into sleep as soon as she closed her eyes. It was already late in the night, and the whole premises was silent. No one stayed in the coffee shop, perhaps because everyone went into different mountain adventures the resort offered, and they were all exhausted.


    As all lights were all turned off, a dark figure appeared from the exit and turned off the lights in the corridors. He scanned his eyes from right to left, and when he saw that he was safe, he went straight and stopped in front of Jane''s room. Holding a gadget in his hand which emitted a red light, he pointed it into the doorknob. He then twisted the doorknob, and it swung open.


    Once inside the room, he pulled up a bottle from his pocket. With steps as light as a feather, he walked towards the bed and sprayed the bottle''s content into Jane''s face. He waited for a few minutes before he pulled out a piece of wet wipes. He gently wiped out the trace of the liquid solution in her face, and after seeing that Jane was fast already in a deep sleep, he shook up Kyle''s shoulders.


    Perhaps used to this situation, Kyle''s eyes flew wide and saw his dad. He got up from the bed silently, then threw himself to his dad.


    "Dad, teacher Jane is asking me already about why I am not missing you. How can I tell her dad that you are visiting me every night?"


    Dr. Charles smiled and rubbed his son''s head. "Son, please bear with me. Someday soon, we will be together again."


    "Dad, will you also visit me in the city? I''ve heard that we will be going back to the city the next day."


    "Of course, son, but I won''t be seeing you often, I will be here until the project is done. What I am doing now is for the justice of your mother and of your grandparents."


    "I understand."


    "Anyway, I''m just a call away. Please help me keep our secret."


    "You can trust me, dad."


    Dr. Charles pulled out something from his jacket. It looked like a toy, the size of an a.d.u.l.t''s fist. A furry cloth covered the item like the head of a stuffed toy, adorned with two large eyes.


    "Is this what you told me about, dad?"


    "Yes. You may use the phone only when you have listeners, but in talking to me secretly, use this gadget. Just press the button if you want to talk to me or when you are in danger. It will send me an alarm."


    "Dad, what if I forget to bring this?"


    "You should not. This is the thing that binds you to me. Wear it always on your wrist." Dr. Charles demonstrated its usage to Kyle, pointing to the flickering, black figures afterward.


    "You can disguise this as your watch."


    Kyle nodded as he moved his wrist with excitement. He then flung his arms around his father''s neck.


    "Dad, be careful always."


    "I will. Stay safe also. Are they good at you?"


    "Yes, they are all nice people."


    Charles hugged his son once more, and he stood up to leave. It won''t be long until the spray loses its power. As quiet as to how Kyle came out of his side of the bed, he also slipped back in the same way. Dr. Charles then closed the door, leaving no trace of his appearance.


    Jane woke up to the sunlight glaring at her face. She was always an early riser, but she noticed that these past days, she often overslept. She slowly got up from her bed, and her gaze fell on Kyle. The sight of him sleeping well brought a smile to her lips. An idea crossed her mind that if ever, she wouldn''t get married, she would ask Mr. Blacksmith to adopt him legally. Through that way, she could already have a lifetime companion.


    Her mind went to Hayri''s teases on her. She knew he wasn''t that sincere. He was just bored in life like her. Theirs was just a mere friendship, and she should inculcate it in her mind. As the night''s memories of him flashed through her mind, her eyes fell on the wrist of Kyle.

 Chapter 268 - Home In Molave 14

    Jane''s forehead creased as the toy in Kyle''s wrist caught her attention. She was watching him when he went to sleep, and she was sure he didn''t have that band.  She bent down and picked up his wrist, but the movement woke up Kyle.


    "Good morning, Kyle," Jane greeted him while brushing his hair with her finger.


    "Good morning, mom!" Kyle brushed his eyes and let out a smile.


    "Kyle, I did not remember you tying that to your wrist." Jane pointed the toy with her lips.


    Kyle''s eyes flew wide open as he realized he was arousing Jane''s curiosity. "Ah, I woke up when you were asleep, and I took this from my bag."


    "How long were you awake?" Jane couldn''t believe how deep she slept that she did not wake up to Kyle''s movement.


    "About an hour."


    "Why did you not wake me up?"


    "You were sleeping tight. Anyway, I was just playing with my phone and this one."


    Jane nodded and let is pass. Maybe, she just didn''t see it somewhere in the pockets of his bag. Getting off from the bed, she proceeded to the bathroom. She looked at herself in the mirror. She was already expecting a greasy face because of the new moisturizing cream she was using. Yet, to her surprise, her face was grease-free as if she had just stripped it off with a cleansing agent. She touched her face, and she could smell a distinct smell in her fingers. Whatever it was, she could not tell. Or was it an after-effect smell of the cream?


    She hurriedly took a bath, and when she came out, Hayri was there already. "Are you opening a can of paint?"


    "Why should I?" Jane smirked, irritated by his conclusion.


    "There''s a distinct smell in your room. I didn''t smell it last night."


    "Somebody must be opening a can of paint thinner outside."


    Hayri frowned though he nodded, not pushing the subject anymore. He urged them to go down because everyone was already waiting for them to join the breakfast.


    Markus also came when they were halfway through their meal. He waved a hand when he saw Jane and Hayri on the table. After ordering their food, Markus approached them on their table.


    "Classmate, is the horseriding area worth the recommendation?"


    "It is. You''ll have the best riding experience on spectacular spots," Hayri replied after chewing half of the food in his mouth.


    "What else can you recommend?"


    "So far, we have tried the spring, their zipline, and sight-seeing on their fruit farm."


    "I see. Thanks for sharing a piece of information."


    Markus was about to turn away when he overheard Kyle''s voice asking their permission to go out and play.


    "Do you already have a child?" Markus commented, his eyes never leaving the child.


    "Yes, but it is not open to the public. You know that we are protecting our image," Hayri fluently lied as if what he was saying were indeed true.


    "Of course, I understand. These two?"


    "No, only the boy."


    Kyle gave Markus a glance and was supposed to greet him, but Chloe dragged him away. Markus followed the boy with his eyes before he turned back to them.


    "Congratulations on having wonderful genes, Louise, Dr. Jane! Your son really looks good."


    Jane''s heart seemed like tumbling out of her ribcage, but somehow, she was able to manage a smile and continue her pretense. Hayri, on the other hand, played his part like it was true. What they were afraid of was the possibility that Markus would talk to Kyle himself.


    ____


    Their destination for that day was to go to the coconut and mango plantation. While they gathered outside to wait for the shuttle, Markus and his men were already on their horses. He waved a hand again at them before they sped away in gallops.


    The coconut plantation was indeed impressive according to how they were told. Each tree stood perfect in height and in good landscaping, providing a cool shade from the blazing sunshine. Only a thin amount of sun rays were able to peek through the long strands of green leaves.


    The group found their comfortable places on the ground as they laid their mats. Both Andrew and Ajie picked up their bolo and placed them at the holster on their sides. They then climbed up into different trees and plucked up cl.u.s.ters of young coconuts. Issa and Leo were quicked to open it all up with the help of some of the farm caretakers.


    "How would you know if a coconut is ripe or young?" Cherry asked as she spooned a slice of coconut meat from its husk.


    "If you shake the fruit, and it''s full of liquid, then it is a young coconut. But if it sloshes much, then it is ripe," answered Ajie, who opened up the tip of a coconut with his bolo. After cutting a small round opening, he held the whole fruit with his hands and handed it to Allie.


    "Here, dear, drink a lot. It''s good for lactation," said Ajie, as he opened up many more husks for all of them.


    Allie looked at him with full admiration in her eyes. "You''re so good, Jie."


    Ajie laughed and replied, "Of course, I grew up climbing the trees."


    Mrs. Lopez also laughed and butted in, "Son. if you grew up with us, then you''ll never know how to do this."


    "Yes, mom. And perhaps, I''ll never learn to ride a horse like Jane."


    Jane looked up from spooning a slice of coconut meat."Why I suddenly become the subject?"


    "Nothing. We are just talking about how good you are in spooning meat that until now, you''re still not able to get a slice!''


    "Shut up!" Jane protested and tried harder, but still, she could never roll out the meat from its husk.


    Everyone laughed in watching how clumsy she was and on how she never gave up. She glanced up and wondered why they were laughing. Looking at their empty husks, she complained.


    "What trick are you using?"


    A burst of laughter was her reply that she gritted her teeth in feigned anger. She tried once more until Hayri could no longer take it. He took out her coconut and replaced it with his own.


    "Here, it''s easier. Try it."


    Jane looked up at him to see if he was sincere. Seeing that he did not laugh, she scooped the meat and marveled at how easily it rolled into her spoon.


    "Wow, yours is nice."


    "My dear, can''t you see? It''s soft because it''s young."


    "I see. Can I have more?"


    Hayri placed his share into her front. He stopped eating and just enjoyed watching her by her side.


    "Jane, is it sweet?" Cherry asked with a suppressed laughter.


    "Yes!"


    "Which one is sweeter? The one at your side or the one in your front?"


    Everyone erupted into another round of laughter, and she realized they were making fun of her again. She looked at her front and saw the opened husks. She then ran her eyes at her side, and Hayri''s amused grin met her gaze.


    "Can you tell which is sweeter now?"


    Jane now realized what Cherry meant, and the small stone she grasped on the ground, came flying into Cherry''s direction.


    Note: Good night, everyone. I will edit this cha[ter tomorrow.

 Chapter 269 - Home In Molave 15

    "How far is the mango farm?" Mr. Dioko broke up the teasing when he saw that Jane was about to cry.


    "It''s just about a kilometer away from here," Leo answered.


    "It''s not hot, and we are full, so how about burning our calories by walking?" Mr. Lopez suggested, and everyone agreed. The kids were even more excited as they chased each other away.


    Allie and Ajie led the way, and despite the difficulty of having a child in Ajie''s arms, he still wrapped an arm around Allie. They were talking about something, and they burst out in laughter every now and then.


    "What are you talking about? Do you mind sharing?"


    Allie turned to them and explained, "We are just reminiscing our past, you know. It was here under these trees that we first fell in love. Our horse was the witness."


    Allie''s laughter rang in their ears, and Ajie reached out and pulled her tighter to himself.


    "Oh, my gosh! You''re making me jealous-" Cherry covered her mouth right away as she realized it was inappropriate. To recall, she felt in love with Ajie when she fell out of Andrew. Aside from that, Joanna was also there listening.


    However, it was too late to back out."It''s not too late, Che."


    Cherry turned to Hayri and found another chance to tease. "You''re right. Why did Andrew allow his team to go ahead? I could have someone to take me here through a horse."


    "What a pity!"


    "You''re right. I''ll be an old maid, but I won''t  welcome you to the club, right, Jane?"


    Jane rolled her eyes and turned her back. "Hey, Che! I''m so afraid when you open up your mouth."


    Cherry giggled right away, making everyone laugh. "What''s wrong with my question?"


    "I know what''s next," Andrew shouted; he and Joanna were walking next to Allie and Ajie.


    Jane looked up and saw the amused look in all their faces, and she knew that at any moment, they''d burst out laughing again. She ran to her mom, who clung on to his dad''s arm while walking.


    "Mom, can you please let them shut up? They''re attacking me again."


    Everyone held back their urge to laugh, afraid of being reprimanded. To their surprise, Mr. Lopez gave out his most sincere advice.


    "If I were to suggest, dear, I would love it if you and Louise will spend more time and do horse riding here."


    "Yes, darling. We both see you grow up together, and we would be the happiest to know if you''ll go beyond plain friendship." her mom added, smiling sincerely.


    Hayri broke out into a wide grin as he watched her coiling into her mom''s side, too ashamed at their open advice.


    "Mom, Dad, you''re so cruel!" she cried, too ashamed to look up. She knew everyone was listening.


    Cherry kept her mouth shut, but she giggled quietly, igniting others to also burst out.


    "Cherry, stop it!" Hayri scolded, but his grin grew wider, implying that he was enjoying it.


    Time passed like a blink of an eye, and soon, they were already in front of the sprawling carabao mango farm. The carabao mango got the reputation of being the sweetest strain, juicier and lesser in fiber than any other species.


    Abundant green, egg-shaped to oblong fruits dr.a.p.ed on each tree which ranged from 10 meters to around 30 meters high. Each broad and rounded, dense canopy dropped low that some of the fruits dangled within a hand reach. Watching the open temptation, everyone got excited to pluck fruits from the tree. They quickly spread out their mats again. Placing down their things on it, they hurried to the trees with the lowest hanging fruits.


    Cherry and Allie climbed up the shortest tree and picked up mangoes within their reach. Ajie and Andrew followed them and even went farther. Jane glanced up excitedly, but being unexposed to tree-climbing in her childhood; she could only watch them with envy. She was an overprotected child whose slight scr.a.p.e in the knee was already a big issue. Unlike Allie and Cherry, who were left out playing and climbing anywhere during their childhood days, she was only allowed on expensive playrooms or parks.


    "Joanna, give the baby to nanay and join us. It''s fun over here!" Andrew called out, and Joanna handed the child to Issa excitedly. As a carefree child before, she was also able to climb up without an effort.


    "Jane, Hayri, join us. We don''t have this fun in the city!" Allie hollered from the top.


    "I can''t climb up. I''m scared!"


    "Let Hayri help you!"


    "No, even if I''ll succeed in coming up, but I still can''t move. I''m afraid of heights."


    "Oh, you''ll miss the fun."


    "It''s alright. Just throw a ripe fruit for me."


    Allie went higher to find ripe mangoes, but the ripe ones were the ones hanging at the lowest branches. Hitting them with a stick would be easier.


    "Jane, have you seen the ripe ones?" Hayri''s breath brushed her ears as he spoke behind her, pointing to the cl.u.s.ter of fruit with his finger.


    "Yes, I see it! Wow!"


    "Pick it up!"


    "How? It''s higher than my reach."


    Hayri crouched down in front of her. "Hurry! Hop on my back!"


    "Are you sure? I''m heavy!"


    "Of course! You''re nothing against my weight. Fast!"


    Jane hesitated, but her excitement to pluck up those shining, golden fruits, outweighed her reluctance. She hopped on to his back and placed her hands on his shoulders.


    "No, dear. It would be difficult," interrupted Mr. Dioko, "hop instead on his shoulders so that you can use both of your hands."


    "Yes, that''s right," Mr. Lopez agreed, giving his best friend a wink.


    "Go, darling. We can''t also wait to have the ripe ones fresh from the tree," urged Mrs. Lopez.


    With everyone''s encouragement, she climbed into Hayri''s shoulders and plucked off the first ripe fruit that she saw. She got so happy and excited to have plucked out one, that she forgot her sense of awkwardness and began plucking as many ripe fruits as she could find. Her laughter and excitement in finding another one were priceless, and she ended up happy and triumphant, while Hayri got breathless.


    Squatting down later in the mat with the many mangoes she got, she called out the elderlies.


    "Mom, dad, uncles, aunties, come over. Let''s eat!" Jane said excitedly, peeling the biggest fruit she got. The elderlies also gathered around with them while those on the top of the trees were throwing their seeds to the ground. Their voices were too loud as they talked and laughed about anything.


    They all began eating while Hayri spread his legs on the ground, his two hands planted on the mat, supporting his weight. Jane noticed that he was panting and that he was the only one not eating yet.


    "Louise, eat now."


    "Later, I''m still tired."


    "I''ll help you peel," Jane seed, and she indeed peeled another fruit. When she was done, she handed it to Hayri. "Here."


    "Feed me, please. I''m too tired."


    "Okay," she replied and placed the fruit in his mouth. Hayri took a bite, and to get a firm hold, he gripped her arm that held the mango. After taking a bite for himself, he also moved her hand to her mouth so she could also have a bite.


    Jane didn''t know that everyone was watching them and that they were stifling their laughter. When they consumed the piece of mango in her hand, Hayri glanced at all of them with a wide grin and a wink.


    "Jane, I want some more. Can you peel another?"


    Jane stared at him, and when she saw that he indeed looked tired, she nodded.


    "Okay. Are you still tired?"


    "Yes. And I want to be tired all my life."


    Cherry, amazingly, no longer opened her mouth to tease, but she suddenly choked and coughed out hard. They all turned to her and laughed, sparing Jane a glance who was so sincere with her peeling task.

 Chapter 270 - Home In Molave 16

    Late into the night later, when everyone had resigned to their beds, someone knocked at the wall outside of Leo and Issa''s bedroom. Issa, who was a light sleeper due to issues of insomnia, heard it, and she woke Leo up. Shaking his shoulders, she whispered. "Leo, shall I open the window?"


    Leo was in a dream that Issa''s tugging seemed like a part of the dream. With her persistence, he opened his eyes, and being near-sighted, he could still figure out the fear of registering in Issa''s face through the dark.


    "What is it?" Before Issa could answer, another series of knocking pounded gently on the wall.


    Leo peeped out through the hole by the window, and he saw a man in black pants and a black windbreaker. He also wore a bonnet that covered his whole face except his eyes. Leo paused to think. If he wouldn''t open up, this man would inevitably break into the house. If he would, he could also be submitting himself directly to the danger. However, whatever way he chose, he would still subject himself to an unknown hazard.


    He stood up and opened the window. At the sound of an opening hinges, the man looked up.


    "Tay..."


    "Good evening, son. How can I help you? Please go over the entrance, and I''ll open the door." Leo''s heart pounded as he offered hospitality. He imagined himself shot at the head the moment he would turn the knob open. However, how could he avoid him now? He was sure that he was one of the men he was feeding for several years. Yet, in times like this, the best thing he could do was to offer kindness. It was still some wicked people''s greatest need. And the lack of it was among the reason why some of them resorted to cruel means.


    "No need, Tay. I would just like to say something. Since you are always so generous to us despite not knowing who we are, I would like you to be safe. Make an earlier harvest and leave the city with your whole family right away. You may come back when everything is over."


    Leo nodded silently. He wanted to ask many things about him, but he couldn''t dare. However, the man continued, "We are from the good side, the Velvets. When you hear anything about Ebony and the Velvet, you need to remember what I say. And I know that I don''t necessarily have to tell you to keep this thing a secret."


    "You can trust me-"


    "Mr. Blacksmith," the man answered for him.


    "I''ll remember it, sir."


    The man stared at Leo for a while before he spoke again. He pulled out a black box from his pocket and handed it to him.


    "Tay, thank you for your thoughtfulness. I want to give you this gift as a symbol of my gratitude."


    Leo gathered his brows and hesitated, "Should I accept that? I really don''t expect payment."


    "Yes, please. Or, I''ll be humiliated."


    Afraid to offend, he reached out for it and smiled. "Thank you so much for whatever is this. Mr. Blacksmith."


    Mr. Blacksmith smiled back and nodded before he turned away. As Leo was about to close the window, he turned back."Tay, please help take care of my son."


    Leo gasped in surprise. So, it meant he was the father of Kyle. Whatever was the reason for sending them away, Leo guessed it would be something dangerous. When Mr. blacksmith''s footsteps vanished, he and Issa opened up the box. Using the penlight he always prepared at their bedside table, their eyes lit up in awe followed by their gasps. A dazzling, velvet glow shone out from the two pendants of the two diamond necklaces.


    Allyza Mountain Resort was sitting on a dark slope. Though a fence enclosed the whole perimeter, it was not impenetrable yet as the entire area was too vast. The construction of buildings and enhancement facilities was still ongoing, and somewhere at the back, there were still open areas.


    While Jane and Kyle were fast asleep, Dr. Charles came in again using his door-opening apparatus. Once again, as in all those nights they were here, he sprayed a liquid inhalant to Jane, causing her a deep sleep. He also wiped her face again with a piece of wet wipes.


    Kyle woke up to his slight shaking since the boy was already anticipating his coming. He crawled out of bed as silently as possible, careful not to wake Jane up. When he was already on his daddy''s lap, Dr. Charles did not delay his intention.


    "Son, later today, you will go back to the city. I may not be able to see you often, but I promise to see you in a few days. Stay away from a man named Markus Madani. He is a relative, but he is harmful. He is looking for you, and he wants to see you dead."


    "Dad, he is here."


    "I know."


    "How?"


    "Because he went horse riding near our hideout."


    Charles hugged his son again before letting him go back to sleep. Before he went out of the room, he placed a black box in her vanity table, overlaid with a single stalk of a red rose. He then closed the door as quietly as when he came in.


    ____


    As his daily routine, Hayri knocked again at Jane''s room after his morning care. He already knocked several times, but still, Jane did not open up. Worried, he went to the receptionist and asked as discreetly as possible for the duplicate key. The resort personnel already knew them, and so she gave the key to Hayri without a second thought.


    As soon as the door swung open, Hayri''s eyes searched Jane right away. To his surprise, she was still sleeping soundly with Kyle beside her. He shook her up, but she only m.o.a.ned. Looking at her closely this time, he smelled the paint-like smell again and realized it was stronger than yesterday. He bent down closer to search where the smell came from, and to his shock, it came from Jane''s face. He frowned. Jane would never use a kind of facial care cream with this kind of fatal scent.


    As he thought more about it, his eyes fell on the bedside table and saw crumpled wipes. His chest thumped louder as he realized that this inhalant could be the reason why Jane overslept.

 Chapter 271 - Home In Molave 17

    Jane woke up seeing Hayri''s face close to her. While she couldn''t deny that he was one of the gorgeous men she knew, it still startled her to see him that way.


    "Jane, you scared me!"


    "Who''s scaring more now?"


    Hayri sighed when she saw her startled expression. He knew he was wrong, but who could also underestimate his fear a while ago?


    "Jane, I''m sorry, but you scared me to death when you don''t wake up despite my frantic knocking and calling. There''s also that paint-like scent on your face!"


    Jane touched her face and looked up to him. Her eyes were full of fear. "Yes, I smell it."


    "Jane, I''m afraid to say this. Perhaps, I was right with my intuition that Markus-I mean, we don''t know what he could do!"


    Jane sat up abruptly and totally forgot that someone else was in her room. The sheet dropped from her shoulders, and it showed the beautiful, pinkish peak she possessed through her transparent sleepwear. Hayri lifted the top of the sheet to cover her up. His eyes fired up in anger as he thought that whoever entered her room, indulged in watching her. He could only pray that he did not do her any harm.


    "Have I told you to dress up when you sleep?"


    "No one is expecting that!"


    "But I do. I already heard that these people entered rooms unnoticed. That''s why I warned you."


    "You did not tell me about it!"


    Hayri realized that they were already shouting at each other that he instantly wrapped her in his arms. "I''m sorry, Jane. I''m just scared."


    A drop of tear fell out from her eyes, and Hayri quickly brushed it. "Go, take a bath now. I''ll wait for you outside."


    Jane stood up from the bed the moment Hayri closed the door. She showered for only a few minutes. After changing into a sundress, she sat before her dressing table, and she almost screamed when she saw the rose. Holding her mouth, she stared at it and saw the small, black box. With quivering hands, she opened it, and on a small piece of paper after the cover, the same initial was printed.


    DCM...


    Her curiosity heightened, and she couldn''t stop herself from opening the box entirely and see what''s inside. After another layer, her eyes flew wide when she saw a heart-shaped pendant sparkling in velvet glow on top of a coiling necklace. Another neatly-folded piece of paper popped out, and when she opened it, beautifully-scribbled words ran across the small sheet.


    "Thank you."


    She got lost in her thoughts after seeing it. Just who is Dr. Charles Madani? Does it mean that he gets inside her room while she is asleep? Does he use inhalant to put her to sleep, causing her to oversleep lately?


    A knock from the door jolted her from her seat. She hurriedly kept the box and the flower and shoved it inside the drawer. She stood up from her chair and walked to the door.


    "You''re done?"


    "Yes, but Kyle is still asleep."


    "Let''s wake him up."


    Everyone was already at the dining table when they entered the restaurant. Cherry was always beaming with her radiant smile, but this morning, her expression was serious.


    "Dear, we need to pack up. Someone from the "boys" visited your uncle Leo and told him to let us go back to the city. Whatever may be the reason, he did not disclose, but..."


    Mr. Lopez didn''t have to explain the detail. Everyone felt the urgency and hurried to pack up. In less than two hours, everyone was already boarding the family''s private chopper except Leo and Issa and Andrew.


    "Brod, take care of my family," Andrew said as he hugged Adrian, his fear of the unknown overwhelmed him.


    "Of course, you do not need to remind me that. Be sure to call as many farmers for the harvest. Let''s keep in touch all the time."


    "Leo, leave the farm. You''re more precious than those possessions." Mr. Lopez got tensed already. He could not understand why Ajie allowed them to stay.


    Mrs. Lopez, Mr. Dioko and Miss Perez also reacted the same, and they tried to convince them for the last time to go with them.


    "It''s not only about us. It''s also about the farmers'' food on their table. And I am sure that that man keeps his promise."


    "I''ll give them the budget," Mr. Dioko offered, anyway, a few million was just a speck of his income.


    "It will raise suspicion, and whoever is the enemy of that man will charge us as their accomplice. The harvest is still the best option, and taking a vacation would be our reason."


    To ease the tension, Hayri stepped in. "Perhaps,  the most significant reason why we are sent home is because of the safety of his son. I shouldn''t be telling you this because I don''t want to scare you, but Markus is related to him. He could be the man''s enemy."


    Hayri then explained to them the internal feud between Markus and Mr. Blacksmith. However, the real problem was that he already involved them because of the child.


    ___


    While the chopper whirled off from the ground, Hayri''s thoughts went back to a meeting he attended. It took place at one of the five-star hotels in the city. The attendees were all the prominent figures of society, gathered for a single cause, a walk towards a  "Highly Effective Leadership". Many of them grumbled. Such a theme that day was too common. However, they still came because of the promise to have a high chance to be heard in whatever complaints or requests they made. They could not refuse any good offer related to their businesses.


    However, towards the end of the meeting, they were asked to pledge. Those who did, got signed as benefactors of their products. And one of those was the door-opening apparatus they named, "Doorz".


    The Doorz app may not be used often, but it could track down the enemy''s evil plan. The holder could go in and out of any facilities undetected by any surveillance cameras.

 Chapter 272 - Home In Molave 18

    The chopper landed on the Lopez residence. Before they separated, they gathered to discuss further the situation.


    "Uncle, can you please assign a guard at Jane''s room?" Hayri said.


    All eyes fell on him. The majority''s first impression was that he was too paranoid.


    "For two nights, in the resort, I distinguished a paint-like smell inside Jane''s room. At first, we concluded that probably, it came from the men in the construction area. On the second day, I saw pieces of wet wipes at her bedside. Whoever went inside must have forgotten to pick it up when he came out."


    Jane stared at him. He did not mention the wet wipes. That could explain why she got a grease-free face when she woke up. Her cream was supposed to moisturize her skin throughout the night so, it could result in oily skin in the morning.


    "The smell of the wipes and Jane''s face was similar. And she herself noticed that she overslept lately. So that could mean the invader was using an inhalant sedative."


    Everyone shuddered at the thought that while Jane slept, somebody visited her. What if she got r.a.p.ed?


    "Why did you not tell us about it?" Mrs. Lopez grumbled.


    "Because we only confirmed it this morning."


    "Angelo, what if the man was looking for the child? Could it be possible that he will also invade here?"


    "That''s exactly my point."


    "Our security is tight, and we have cameras around."


    "Yes, but the Doorz app uses a technology that blocks the sensors. It literary make the camera''s lens go blind."


    "So, we are cornered. If I refused to take the child, Mr. Blacksmith becomes our enemy. Now that he is with me, his enemy may come looking for him for their revenge. We will also become enemies to his enemies," Jane explained as not all of them were able to get down yet to the bottom of the situation.


    "So, what should we do?"


    "The least we can do is to help hide the child," Jane answered.


    "That is the reason why I pretended that Kyle is our son out of wedlock."


    Without any intention to blame her or whatsoever, their eyes glued on Cherry. They were already expecting that she would tease them again, but to their surprise, she zipped her mouth. She seemed to be really afraid for Jane.


    They thought she would shut her mouth forever, but she suddenly spoke up.


    "It''s time Jane needs a male companion in her room. If this man opens a door, then he can also break a window."


    They all exchanged gazes silently. Cherry was right if their security monitors were all useless against the Doorz app.


    "Hayri, why don''t you sleep with Jane every night?" There was indeed sincerity in Cherry''s expression.


    "What?-"


    "I have no objection against that," Hayri cut her off. "You can put another bed for me."


    "No need. I still want my complete privacy. Dad can increase his security forces."


    When everyone went home, Jane sank onto her bed. She would never feel safe anymore in this room. How could she tell Hayri that Dr. Charles was the one who invaded her room and not Markus?


    When everyone went home, Jane showed Kyle his room beside hers. Since it was still early, he called up a team of construction workers to put a door inside that would connect their rooms. In that way, she could still have her privacy while she could monitor Kyle without the need to go out of her room. Before bedtime, the rooms were already ready for their use.


    Kyle was working on the workbook she assigned him to do while Jane was doing some personal works in her room. After completing her task, she turned off her laptop and went to check on Kyle. Before she opened the door, she peeped on the door hole and spied on Kyle. His phone was at the bedside while he was on a study table. While he was writing, she also saw him talking.


    "Dad, I''m already in my room doing some schoolwork. Teacher Jane is also in her room doing some personal business. How about you, dad? How are you doing?"


    Jane creased her brows while watching him. His phone was far away from him, and it was not in a loudspeaker mode. Who is he talking to


    "Kyle? Are you talking to your dad?" she asked straightforwardly.


    "I''m talking to myself, mom. I''m just practicing what I am going to tell him that when once he calls me."


    Jane sighed, chuckling at herself. She was just paranoid.


    Several nights passed peacefully. There was no sign of invasion of Dr. Charles. Her thick, facial mask that she hoped to lessen the effect of the sedative was still intact. However, the latest bombing incidence was in all headlines. And the police investigators were trying to connect it to the most reputable organizations, the Ebony and the Velvet Fighters. However, in a separate interview, the spokesman of Velvet Fighters vehemently denied the accusation, saying that they were never involved in any crimes nor threats. When asked if he could point it out to another group, he answered,


    "We have no proof to point out the incident to them. And what they are doing is none of our business. It''s also not in our interest to meddle in their affairs, nor to pry on to any of their activities."


    A few days after the said interview, an unidentified person uploaded some detailed videos of the bombing incidents, proving to the public that the events indeed were prompted by the Ebony group.


    Markus Madani, their identified leader, got enraged by the news. No matter how he tried to suppress the reproduction of the videos, it just wouldn''t stop. He called up an emergency meeting, and all the VIP''s and members came. Among the early comers were the most respected icon and the secret vice-president of the organization, Dr. Charles Madani.


    When he walked up to the front, all eyes were fastened on him, wondering how he would solve the current accusation.


    "Good evening, everyone!" Dr. Charles scanned his eyes to every one of them. We have already tried hard to stop the reproduction of the said video. However, we could not wholly eradicate it as some may have saved it on their phones or laptops. To divert the government''s attention from this, let''s create another incident that would blow their minds away."


    Note: My eyes are already dropping so I will do the editing tomorrow morning.

 Chapter 273 - Home In Molave 19

    "What do you have in mind, Dr. Charles?" Markus Madani asked, also speaking on behalf of those who didn''t dare to voice out their opinions.


    Dr. Charles gave out a beguiling smile and ran his eyes across the room, starting from his left to right. He paused for a while to consider the question, holding the gaze of his audience. In a span of a few minutes, he held the microphone in his hand and began to speak again.


    "To our highly respected Sir Markus Madani III, in honor of our great, great grandfather Markus Madani Sr., I am leaving the wisdom of planning the next incident to you. As you know,  I don''t possess the skill of strategic planning as much as you do. Rest assured that I will give my full support in whatever ways I can be of help to the plan."


    Dr. Charles bent down for a polite bow as he gave the floor again to Markus. A round of applause erupted, and another round broke out when Markus took the stage. Exchanges of ideas then began and plans to outwit the government laid out. Charles also lent his full attention, sharing his opinion every now and then.


    When the meeting finally adjourned, Markus approached Charles on his way to the parking.


    "Dr. Charles, thank you for your brilliant ideas." Markus extended his hand to him, and Charles accepted it with a warm smile.


    "I would be happy to know if in some way I will be able to contribute to the success of our plan."


    "Of course, you do," said Markus, a  genuine smile also spread in his face. He then cleared his throat, and his stare implied that he wanted to say something.


    "Is there something you want to say?"


    Markus chuckled and nodded. "Dr. Charles, I hope you will forget whatever was standing between us-"


    A wide grin appeared in Charles'' face. "At the end of the day, we are still family. If I did not consider this, I would not have joined the movement."


    "Thank you so much."


    "My pleasure."


    They hugged and laughed afterward, not saying a single word, but when they both slid into their cars, mirthless laugh echoed within the constraints of each of their car.


    __________


    Nine years ago...


    "Markus, please meet me at Billows Beach Resort. Now."


    "As you wish."


    Riza paced back and forth in her cottage, her hair disheveled due to the constant and careless brushing of her hair with her fingers. She slightly pulled the curtains to the side to check who was coming close to her cottage. No matter how she moved around, she could not keep up the rapid pacing of her heartbeats and the weight that overlaid it.


    As the familiar footsteps penetrated into the hollows of her room, she jumped for joy, only to sink back in pain. Markus knew she was waiting and so he turned on the knob without knocking. As soon as the door clicked to a lock, Riza threw herself at him.


    "Markus, I don''t want it. Please find some ways." Riza''s pent-up tears fell like a deluge and Markus held her tenderly.


    "I''m sorry, Riza. I''m powerless against our families. I''m really sorry."


    Riza didn''t need to argue. Even if she was going to marry a distant relative, their local law didn''t allow a first-degree of sanguinity into any marriage. Markus was her cousin, and nothing was going to change that.


    "Why don''t we go out of the country and go to some place where no one knows us?"


    "Who said I am not hurting, Riza? But you know the answer to that."


    Riza and Markus cried for who knew how long until they both fell exhausted emotionally. Lying on his arms, she looked up to him and traced his lips with her fingers.


    "Make me yours today, Markus."


    "Riza-"


    "Please."


    "You know how low is my threshold against your charm."


    "I don''t mind."


    "Are you sure about it?


    Riza didn''t answer anymore. She sealed his lips with hers and taunted him. She then planted hot and wet trails on his forehead, his eyes, and down to his earlobes. Markus did not move; he allowed her to say her love and goodbye in a way, her heart could deeply express. Soaked by her tears, her kisses found its ways to the crook of his neck. He allowed her to lift his shirt out, slightly breaking the kiss.  Her drenched mouth then descended to his chest while her hands roamed everywhere. When finally her lips trailed down below his navel, she unhooked his pants and slid her hand under his undies.


    Markus couldn''t hold himself anymore. He slid down his pants and threw it on the floor. He pushed Riza gently into the bed and laid her on her back. He began returning the kisses she gave, inch by inch, in a more intense aggression. When he threw the last piece of her lingerie to the floor, she closed her eyes.


    Riza''s thoughts went to the man she would be marrying in a few days. How would Charles react if he would know that someone else was ahead of him? She recalled the night when they and their parents gathered for the wedding plans.


    "Charles, I guess you understand the reason behind your marriage set up. The production for the velvet diamonds should only be on our line."


    "I understand."


    "Are you willing to take Riza as your wife?"


    Riza watched him through the corners of her eyes. Who wouldn''t want a brilliant and handsome man for a husband? Sadly, her heart belonged to someone else.


    "I am. As long as she is a v.i.r.g.i.n."


    She was, but in the next moment, she would give herself to his cousin.


    Looking into the eyes of Markus, who positioned himself between her thighs, she raised her hands and placed it on the edge of his shoulders. The stifled scream of pain that followed signified her breaking of Charles'' only condition. The following day, she signed the consent to undergo a v.a.g.i.n.a.l repair.

 Chapter 274 - Home in Molave 20

    "Follow him."


    "Yes, sir."


    Dr. Charles smiled as he watched the following car through his side mirror. Only a Madani could afford this expensive car model in this place. He maintained his speed, pretending he didn''t notice. Aside from the velvet diamonds and the atomic bombs, micro tracking devices were also his forte. He could tell right away any attempts to stalk on him through the signals the apps emitted.


    He turned to the road on a corner and pulled to a stop in front of a primary school. He then went out of his car and walked to the gate. The school directress who knew of his visit ahead met him at the entrance.


    "Dr. Charles, welcome to our humble place again!" Her grin reached her ears as she shook hands with him. Charles also returned her smile.


    "Thank you. madame, but please, don''t belittle the place where my son is. May I see Kristian?"


    "Sure. The boy can''t already wait to see you."


    Kristian was one of the boys from the orphanage whom he had sponsored ever since he was an infant. Since this school also offered a stewardship program for those sponsored kids from their affiliated orphanage, he also left Kristiane to their care. Every time he was in the city, he would always come to visit him. Kristian was not the only one who would be happy for his coming but also the school''s directress due to his generosity. He didn''t only have a portion of her school renovated, he also always showered them with foods and gifts, including all the other children in the entire institution.


    "Daddy!"  A handsome boy, of Kyle''s age, came in running.


    "Kristian! How''s my son, doing?" Charles hugged the boy and swung him into the air.


    "Dad, I have high grades. Madame Theresa teaches me very well."


    "Oh, is that so? If Madame Theresa makes my son happy, then I should also make her happy."


    "That''s sounds wonderful, dad."


    "What gift do you like us to give her?"


    "A set of new teeth!"


    Charles chuckled hard as he hugged the child again. He was only adopted but he was dear to his heart. He couldn''t even let a day pass without checking on him.


    "Okay, son. Wish granted."


    When Kristian joined back his classmates to eat the food he ordered for them, Madame Theresa invited him to her office.


    "Dr. Madani, the private investigator we hired finally got a lead."


    Dr. Charles gathered his brows and crossed his arm. "Go ahead."


    "He finally traced the caretaker who found Kristian at the gate of the orphanage."


    "And?"


    Before Madame Theresa composed and readied herself to break a shattering news, Charles'' thoughts wandered to the day the orphanage director approached him at his clinic.


    _____


    "Dr. Charles, we have always known about your generosity, and that''s the reason why we are here now."


    "Go ahead."


    "We would like to ask you to sponsor a child that we could endorse to Red Heart Primary School''s  Stewardship Program. While the child studies in the school, they would also be taking care of them just like a family. Only that it would be costly."


    Aside from jealousy and family differences, he knew that Markus was angry with him because of Riza. He had already known about their discreet relationship even before he was informed about his marriage to her. If he didn''t, he wouldn''t have insisted that he would only consent to the wedding if she were a v.i.r.g.i.n. That incident that led to Riza''s death would be a ground for Markus to initiate his revenge through his son. To mislead him, he accepted the orphanage''s proposal to adopt a child but hid Kyle in a foreign country under the care of a relative.


    "Pick me a ten-month-old male infant."


    "Good idea, Dr. Charles, because we already have an infant in mind to offer to you."


    "Start processing the paper as soon as possible but in one condition."


    "We are willing to listen, doc."


    "Take my son to another country through a fake adoption. And I will have someone to meet you there."


    The school director froze for a second, and in his face, a massive shock. Charles looked at him in the eye and confessed, "Someone is after the life of my son."


    _____


    "Dr. Charles, may I proceed?"


    Charles snapped back to his senses when he heard Madame Theresa''s voice. "I''m sorry I was lost. Go ahead, madame."


    "Next week, the private investigator would go the caretaker''s province. Hopefully, this will be the last step towards finding Kristian''s biological parents."


    Charles nodded as he pulled out a stub of a check from his bag. He scribbled a name then handed it to her. "Madame, that is an open amount. My son wants you to buy a set of new teeth."


    Madame Theresa burst into laughter that her loose dentures flew into the air. With a smile, Charles understood why Kristian requested for it.


    After some moments of emotional exchanges of goodbye, Charles walked back to his car. He checked his tracker and noted that the car following him was a few meters away from him. He smiled, turned the engine on and sped off the highway.


    The guard was about to close the door when a car''s horn honked, alerting his attention. Markus put on his bonnet and showed an identification to the guard. Leader, Ebony Fighters.


    He no longer thought twice about opening a gate and he barged inside Madame Theresa''s office. Madame almost collapsed from her swivel chair when she saw the big ID card hanging on the man''s chest. The videos of the latest bombing incident that pointed to the Ebony Fighters were raging in social media.


    "Show me the son of Charles Madani."


    "No, sir. The child is innocent. Whatever grudges you may have with his parent, remember, he is not accountable with it."


    "Don''t worry, madame. I may be the most dangerous man in the country, but I won''t harm my son. Show him to me. Now."


    "Yes, yes! I will go and get him." Madame''s chest almost exploded in the thought that she was keeping the son of a terrorist?


    Like a bolt of lightning, Madame came back with the boy in her hand. Markus stared at him, and the boy also stared back at him.


    "Do I know you, uncle?"


    Markus did not reply. He stared at him longer, examining some features that resembled the Madani genes. Deep-seated eyes, pointed nose, fair skin.


    The boy had all those but, his looks didn''t stir him the way the son of Hayri and Jane did.


    "Boy, what''s your name?"


    Kristian coiled at the side of Madame Theresa and hid his body. His widened eyes and sharp stares spoke volumes of fear. In a tiny voice, he answered. "Kristian Madani."

 Chapter 275 - Home In Molave 21

    No matter how powerful was the inventions of Dr. Charles Madani, he couldn''t be invisible to the eyes of the human guards. He could break doors and deactivate surveillance cameras, but he couldn''t make a human blind without using chemicals. The security measures implemented by Beautiful Haven, Lopez, and Dioko residences were very tight, and seeing his son again would need formal permission.


    However, he couldn''t risk exposing himself as the man behind Mr. Blacksmith. Even if Beautiful Haven had a record of him as Charles Madani, he was careful not to leave photos. He believed that Jane and Hayri would not expose himself just as he warned them. And that they couldn''t also figure out how he looked.


    He saw to it that his details couldn''t be searched through the internet. He had destroyed any records about him and his previous engagements. As much as possible, he should retain his image as the faceless Mr. Blacksmith.


    When the night had become eerily silent, and the whole city seemed to sleep, except for some pubs and recreation area in the heart of the town, Charles climbed into his chopper. With his apparatus connecting to the gadget in Kyle''s wrist, he could precisely locate where his room was. As soon as he was on top of the Lopez''s mansion, he pushed a sprinkler button in an apparatus, and it created an artificial rain. All the guards took shelter, and when everything was clear, he descended from the aircraft through a cable. Following his calculation, he landed on the roof on top of Kyle''s room. Using a blue light from another app, he cut a portion of the roof, creating a rectangular entrance. The only sound it produced was the noise from lifting the cut part and placing it at the side, but the sound of the artificial rain muffled it.


    Descending further through the small door in the ceiling of Kyle''s room, he unfolded his collapsible stair and dropped it as silently as possible on the floor for him to pass through. It was a cushioned, lightweight material but durable enough to hold a person. He then locked the door from inside before he sat down beside Kyle.


    "Son, I''m sorry for taking so long. You know, dad always comes like a powerful character in a movie." Charles said while stroking his son''s head.


    "It''s true. I admire you, dad."


    "But it''s not fun. It''s dangerous. If someone catches me, it will be the end of me." Charles made a face, and Kyle giggled.


    "Be careful, dad. I''ll promise to help you keep your secret."


    Charles laughed, he looked so cute in having a hand raised as a sign of promise.


    "That''s my boy."


    Suddenly, Kyle''s expression changed. He held his face and asked, "Dad, can we be with each other again?"


    Charles choked, and without answering, he gathered him in his arms and hugged him tightly. He couldn''t promise anything. He just couldn''t tell what lay ahead.


    Rubbing his back, he tried to assure him of what he could only afford.


    "Son, make sure your toy is always on so that I can always connect with you. You can talk to me whenever you like as if I am around."


    "I''ll keep that in mind. I promise."


    After a few more chats, he urged his son to go back to sleep. When his breathing steadied, he went inside Jane''s room and stared at her for a long while as he sat by her side.


    "Fall in love with my son, Jane. Your love for him will bind us together."


    Giving her one last glance, he walked to her vanity table and placed a black box with a longer note under it again.


    "Dear Jane,


    I''m sorry for invading your room, but I want to see my son without the knowledge of my enemies. Someone is after his life, but I can not tell you more about it yet. Someday, If I can when my goals and objectives, I can finally live a normal life with my son.


    Please help me keep my secret. You don''t have to be scared. I will never do you any harm. I also want you to know that ever since we were in college, I have already set my eyes on you. However, my family picked up the path that I must walk on, and it was far from what I would have chosen for myself.


    Looking afar, may the chances be kind to us.


    DCM


    Charles left as discreetly as when he came in. The chopper passed by again and with an agile move, he held on through the cables thrown at him. The artificial rain successfully concealed his activity again. In less than a minute, he was back to the chopper through the cords that pulled him up.


    Soon, the aircraft zoomed to the sky, and in a few minutes, they were already hovering above the mountain of Molave. He had accomplished many things that day and successfully misled the Ebony leaders during the meeting. He had met his sons and saw that they were both doing well. As an added accomplishment, he had made another move on Jane.


    Yes, he admired and adored her. She was every man''s ideal and dream woman whom only a few would dare. A trophy that every player would love to win and a beauty anyone would desire. However, like a gem, she could be an obsession with anyone who may only have a fleeting feeling.


    Just like him, who also made  Jane his obsession. However, if he were to choose, his heart would always choose the simple island girl he met at one point in his life. But she''s gone, out of his life.


    -------------


    Nine years ago...


    He sailed through his speedboat against the short waves, one summer day. The blue water ahead seemed calm and endless. It spoke of beauty beyond what words could describe, but it hid many unspoken danger beneath its depth.


    Just like his life; attractive on the outside, but chaotic inside.


    If he were to choose, he would have loved to live happily and peacefully on an island, which was his destination that afternoon. It was the home of the woman who gave a different meaning of life in its simplicity. She spoke of peace and happiness when the pressure from his family became too much. Yet, he knew his life was not for a simple woman like her. His family wouldn''t want it.


    The fast-approaching date of his wedding made him escape from his turbulent world and sought her in this beautiful haven again. She was there standing at the shore, waiting for him. No one knew how many days she watched afar and anticipated for his return.


    He''s here again, not to promise her a road to forever but to say goodbye. The setting sun, the lapping waves against the shore were their witnesses as their n.a.k.e.d bodies joined as one again. Sadly, for the last time.


    Early the next morning, she woke up to see velvet diamonds by her bedside instead of Charles. She ran to the window, and with silent tears, she watched the boat until it disappeared from her sight.

 Chapter 276 - Home In Molave 22

    When Jane woke up in the morning, she saw the black box and the letter. Her spine crept up when she knew that despite the security, Charles was still able to break into their home. She opened the box, and this time, it was a pair of sparkling, velvet diamond earrings.


    She hurried to Kyle''s room to check on him, but the child was fast asleep. She looked up to the ceiling and opened the windows, but she didn''t find anything unusual. What kind of a person was Charles? Was he someone who had supernatural powers? She didn''t believe in that, but if he was a normal human being, why could he break into a room unnoticed despite tight security?


    She went out of the room and talked to the head of the guard if they found something unusual. Yet, the guards showed her the video footage throughout the night, and it didn''t show anything suspicious. She paced back and forth in the living room, trying to decide whether or not she should tell her parents or Hayri about it.


    Having unable to come up with a decision, she went unannounced to Hayri''s office. It had been a long while already since Hayri didn''t bother her anymore. Though he never missed a message or a greeting in a day, it was still unlike his latest pestering on her. She may hate to admit her but she already missed his company.


    "Good morning. May I talk to Mr. Dioko?" The receptionist looked at her, stunned. Perhaps, she saw her in some magazines or in business and fashion segments.


    "I''m sorry, ma''am, but Mr. Dioko is not in the office right now. He is having a breakfast meeting with-"


    "Oh, right, I saw him ushering Miss Rona into his car. OMG! I''m excited for both of them!" interrupted another receptionist who sat next to the lady she asked.


    She saw the lady glared at the one who cut her, but the latter ignored her, and squealed some more instead, in her excitement.


    "Gosh! They looked so perfect together. Sir Hayri is so kind, so he deserved to have someone as rich and beautiful as Miss Rona."


    Frustrated, the lady turned back to her and gave her sweetest smile. "Ma''am, how about informing Mr. Dioko that you are here? Should I tell him that you are waiting for him?"


    "Never mind, miss. I''ll call him myself. By the way, do you have any idea where he usually goes out for breakfast?"


    "Mr. Lopez is a die-hard fan of Myrtle Shade. Maybe you can find him there."


    Jane couldn''t understand herself. The scene with the receptionist kept playing in her mind like a broken cassette tape. Is Miss Rona a client? But the receptionist wouldn''t call her by her first name if she''s someone new to them.


    She decided to go to the nearest Myrtle Shade branch. The long queue impressed her. Ryan was no longer here, and the production of addictive creamer had already stopped, but the place was still crowded with breakfast goers. She looked around to see any signs of Hayri, but he was not there. Perhaps, they had gone somewhere else, she thought. A beautiful love song played in the background, and suddenly, a pang of pain wrapped her heart.


    Somehow, the aroma of fresh coffee was too inviting that she was tempted to order a cup and a breakfast set. She decided to stay and have time for herself.


    "Ma''am, if you can wait for a little while, the occupants of one of our private cubicles are going out in a few minutes. If you like, I''ll have your order processed and then I''ll inform you once the area is ready."


    Jane nodded and decided to wait in her car. The parking space was just at the front of the building so she could see if clients were going out. She didn''t like crowded places, but the idea to be alone in a private cubicle was more comforting than to go back to the house or to go to her office. The thought of Charles breaking in was scaring her, and she was not in the mood to accept appointments for the day.


    After what seemed like fifteen minutes, her eyes flew wide when she saw Hayri coming out! And she saw his arm over her shoulders when they descended the short flight of stairs. The receptionist was right after all. If she was the Miss Rona she mentioned, she was indeed incredibly beautiful! And she was also right with her instinct. Hayri could never love her as he did with Allie or this Miss Rona. She would forever be just a best friend.


    She could never understand herself. She anticipated it already, but still, big drops of tears flowed endlessly from her eyes as she watched them. They were perhaps talking about something funny that they both laughed. They looked good together and she had never seen Hayri as happy and inspired before than he was at the moment!


    ______


    When Hayri and Miss Rona came back, the receptionist informed him that someone came in a while ago looking for him.


    "Who?" Hayri asked.


    "I''m sorry, sir, but I have not asked her name."


    "Have you seen her here before?" There were only a few women in his mind who would perhaps come to look for him. It could either be Allie or Cherry, but these receptionists knew them already.


    "No, sir, but I saw her on TV and in magazines. I think she is-"


    "Jane?" Hayri''s heartbeat sped up when his thoughts went on, Jane. She never came to see him at the office even once, but since she dared to come, it could be something very important.


    The receptionist''s face lit up when Hayri mentioned her name. She then squealed and jumped. "I knew it! I knew it! I finally see Dr. Jane Lopez in person!"


    Hayri pulled out his phone and called up Jane. "The number you dialed cannot be reached. Please try again later.


    He indeed tried again many times later, but she couldn''t be reached. Once inside the office, Hayri turned to Rona, who stood amused in watching him. "Lover''s problem?"


    Hayri ignored his question and talked about something else. "Miss Rona, I''ll leave someone to explain to you the details of our available yachts. If you want another customized design, we can also talk about it later."

 Chapter 277 - Home In Molave 23

    Jane went home before lunchtime with red eyes and puffing eye bags already. Mrs. Lopez saw her entering while watching some shows in the living room. She glanced at her, and her forehead creased when she saw her face.


    "Darling, you''re crying."


    Jane giggled as she bent down to kiss her mother before she answered. "Yes, mom. I was watching a movie while taking breakfast. Is Kyle already at school?"


    "Yes, dear. Ajie took him with Chloe today."


    "I see."


    Allie and Ajie had moved to their residence and decided to build their own home next to them. They owned a huge area anyway, and even if ten more buildings were to erect in the site, it wouldn''t make the place crowded.


    "Dear, Hayri just left. He wanted to see you but you were not here." Jane froze for a while but she was quick to hide her reaction.


    "I''ll call him, mom," Jane lied to keep her mom from asking, but the truth was, she blocked him, instead. She would never hope again. If only she knew how it hurt.


    She decided to go to Allie''s place. She really needed someone to confirm or deny her suspicion. Ever since the threat broke out in Ryan''s time, the very reason that brought them here, Allie moved her office permanently in her home. Ajie was also too overprotective of her that he even wanted her to resign from Rough Seas Marine Supplies and Equipment and entrust it fully to Cherry and Shiela.


    "Jane, is anything bothering you?"


    "None at all. I just want to ask about something."


    "Sure. What is it?" Allie guessed it could be related to the reason why she was crying.


    "When you and Hayri were in Turkey, did you have a client named Rona?"


    "Rona Graciano?" It was a name she couldn''t forget because she owned a fleet and had them repaired at Gretel''s Shipyard.


    "I don''t know the family name."


    "How did you met her? Is she here in Cebu?"


    Jane had already thought about how she would answer her if in case she would ask. "A friend of mine mentioned about this person and that she also said that they both came from Turkey. Yet, I assumed that perhaps you also know her."


    Allie felt something strange in her expression, but she kept it to herself.


    "Miss Rona is an old client of Gretel''s Shipyard. She''s a good friend of Hayri because this lady opens up to him. Now, I remember-" Allie snapped her fingers, and her eyes lit up, "Perhaps, she''s here to buy a yacht. Hayri just asked me to forward more designs to him. This lady is a bit picky, but she''s nice anyway."


    Jane did not take long. After finding an excuse, she left. She drove aimlessly, but unconsciously, she brought herself to Beautiful Haven. And since she was already there, she decided to come down and check on Chloe and Kyle.


    "Dad, uncle Ajie took Chloe and me to school together this morning..."


    "Kyle?" Jance cut him off. He was busy placing his lunch box on the table when she came in. Kyle did not notice her because he was talking to someone.


    "Mom!" Kyle ran up to her and threw his arms around her neck. "Are you okay?''


    "Yes, why?"


    "Because your eye bags are puffing."


    Jane chuckled at how observant Kyle was. He was still a few days with her, but she was emotionally drawn fast to him because of his sweetness and thoughtfulness.


    "Because I watched a movie."


    Kyle looked at her in the eye for a long while. He seemed to have something to say, but he chose to smile in the end and said, "Take care always, mom. I love you."


    Overwhelmed and surprised, she hugged him also. "I love you too, baby!"


    Jane was about to go after a few more exchanges, but she remembered something she would have wanted to ask first. "Kyle, I saw you were talking to someone when I arrived, but  I notice that your phone is not with you. How long are you in the habit of talking to yourself?"


    "I only talk to myself every time I miss dad. Mom, by the way, daddy was here."


    "Your daddy?" Jane got annoyed with whoever allowed entry to the premises without telling her first.


    "Yes, mom. Daddy Hayri. He was here to see you."


    At the mention of Hayri''s name, her urge to cry came back again. She hurried to get away, afraid that either Chloe or Kyle would see her tears. She drove aimlessly again that she didn''t realize she had gone far. She was even late to realize that it was already dark, and the roadside had turned to trees, farms, and wild bushes. She laughed at how crazy she acted just because of that beautiful woman!


    After a few more miles, she saw a coffee and wine shop by the roadside. Perhaps, she had reached another town already. She was always careful, but at that time, she couldn''t care less if she was far away from home or that it was already late at night. The distance she had traveled was still not enough to ease the pain in her heart. Why did she always have to fall for a wrong man?


    She went inside to order a cup of coffee. The attendant was perhaps charmed by her looks that she warmly accommodated her. She led her into a table and gave her the menu list. At the column where the names of the cold drinks were listed, a drink name caught her attention.


    "For the heart..."


    "Miss, what do you mean by this?" Jane asked, laughing.


    "That is our bestselling wine. A balm for the heart." The attendant giggled, amused by her curiosity."Would you like to try, ma''am?"


    "If you say that this is a balm for the heart, then I''m willing to try."


    She knew this was crazy, but something in her inner thoughts suggested she should try. Although she had never tasted any wine, she knew that many brokenhearted people like her treated themselves to a momentary relief of pain through these fluids. Perhaps, she could try it herself.

 Chapter 278 - Home In Molave 24

    Little did he know that Hayri had already gone frantic in looking for her. He tried to call her a hundred times, but still, she was out of reach. He was hesitant to inform Mr. & Mrs. Lopez because he didn''t want them to worry. There were only two people who could perhaps give him an idea about where to go.


    "Hayri, what brought you here?" Allie''s echoed into the walls of their living room, making Ajie come out from the kitchen.


    "What kind of question is that? Can''t he come in anytime to visit his sister and his niece and nephew?" Ajie spoke behind her, giving Hayri a warm smile.


    "It''s not what I mean," she said, shifting his gaze from Hayri to him, "I am worried about that look." Allie moved her lips and pointed it to Hayri. She could tell very well if Hayri was bothered, worried, or not in the mood.


    "Is there anything bothering you, brod?"


    Hayri went inside as Allie opened the door wider, but he did not sit down. "Adrian, do you know any place Jane frequented anytime she''s not in the mood?"


    Ajie and Allie furrowed their brows. So, it''s about Jane. Before Allie could answer, Ajie spoke first.


    "Jane always go home directly after school or work. Whenever she can''t, she always inform anyone in the house." Ajie''s sense of familiarity with her routine pricked his heart.


    "I just called auntie and uncle," Hayri said, brushing his hair abruptly, "but she''s not home yet."


    "She was here this morning," Allie said, taking Hayri''s full attention, "and her eye bags were like ripe, red tomatoes. She must have been crying."


    "Heavens! Allie, Adrian, I''m afraid that Markus has tracked her down," Hayri dropped himself on the sofa, placing his head in between his palms. "Who knows if Markus broke in again that''s why she''s crying and scared."


    "She didn''t mention anything about it, but..."


    "But what?" cut Hayri, too impatient to know everything at once.


    "She asked if I know someone named Miss Rona."


    Hayri''s brows furrowed, taken aback by her revelation. His thoughts began placing the pieces together.


    "Let me call her," Ajie offered, pulling his phone right away from the center table and set it in the speaker mode. He didn''t wait anymore for Hayri''s approval. The phone rang right away, but Jane did not pick it up until the recorded voice set in.


    Hayri frowned and also dialed her number, but he couldn''t get through. Allie also picked up her phone and tried dialing her number, and as she expected, it rang as soon as she hit the call button.


    Allie broke out laughing as she announced, "Then, it''s clear, Hayri. She''s avoiding you. You may be the reason for her crying spell. Think about it."


    Hayri gritted his teeth in anger. "What did I do?"


    "Did you go out with Miss Rona?"


    "How is Rona getting into the picture? We only had breakfast."


    Allie giggled at his innocence and gave him a look of disbelief. "Don''t you get it? She''s jealous!."


    Hayri stared at her as the dawn of realization hit him. "How troublesome, why doesn''t she-" Hayri began to grumble.


    "Stop complaining. Go and find her," Allie demanded, cutting him off.


    "Where? I already searched the world."


    After trying several attempts, Jane finally picked up her phone. "Sis."


    "Jane, where in the world, are you? It''s already late."


    Jane got silent for a while, increasing Hayri''s anxiety. "I don''t know. Sis, please... don''t ever tell... anyone I''m here. Just please ...tell mom... and dad that I''m... with a friend," came Jane''s slurred and stuttered voice.


    "Okay, Jane, but at least tell me where you are."


    "I don''t know."


    "Okay, Just stay where you are. Don''t turn off your phone."


    Jane answered her with her giggles and slurred speech. She''s apparently drunk.


    Allie checked her location, and according to the map, she was some 300 kilometers away from them.


    "If you have to get to her by car, you will get there the fastest in four to six hours, but it''s already dark, and you''re not familiar with the place."


    "I''ll use a chopper. Can you please check a safe place to land close to her location?"


    Allie rechecked her app, and her face lit up the next moment. "She''s close to our office in the wharf so I can call some personnel to prepare a car you could use in going to her."


    After a few more details and preparation, Hayri was already up in the air. His joy now outweighed his worries. While looking below, his thoughts went back to his activities this morning. He wracked his brain in thinking about which part was Jane hurting.


    Transferring to the car that waited for him after a few minutes in the air, he urged the driver to sped off. What if some harmful men were taking advantage of her drunken state?


    The moment he spotted Jane''s car in front of a coffee and wine shop, his heart almost jumped for joy. The attendant was already pulling the blinds down and was about to lock the door.


    Hayri sprinted into the shop, ignoring the attendant who attempted to block his way. His eyes fell immediately on Jane, placing her head on a pillow on top of the table, fast asleep. Her bag and phone were lying neatly at the edge of the table. The light on top of her was already turned off, but the aircon was set into its lowest temperature. A thick blanket was also spread over her back. It looked like the personnel took care of her, and that made Hayri happy.


    While staring at her, the attendant''s voice broke into his train of thoughts. It was when he noticed that she followed him. Hayri turned to her, and to his surprise, she handed him a box.


    "Sir, ma''am, give me this box as her payment because, as she said, she has no cash. I can''t accept that, and I am willing to shoulder the bill, but she can''t go home in that state, either."


    Hayri gave the attendant a short stare as he accepted the box. He opened it, and his eyes flew wide when he saw the glittering pair of velvet diamond earrings in his palm. It only meant that Dr. Charles Madani showed himself again.


    "Here''s for her payment," Hayri said as he pulled out paper bills and handed it to the attendant, "and keep the change."


    The lady''s eyes widened in shock. "Sir, that''s too big for a tip."


    "That''s yours. Thank you for taking care of her."


    Hayri then lifted her in a bridal style and brought her to her car. He could have chosen to use the chopper in going home but to have Jane beside him made his long trip back worthwhile.

 Chapter 279 - Home In Molave 25

    Jane woke up in the morning with no idea how she came home. She sat up abruptly when she recalled that she traveled far in the north and got drunk in that special wine the shop offered. Her eyes caught Hayri sleeping on the couch with his legs dangling on the armrest. When she found herself in the same clothes she wore yesterday, she felt itchy and uncomfortable, and so she hurried to take a shower.


    Hayri woke up later and found her smiling, already in a fresh, home clothes. "Jane," he spoke groggily, "may I sleep more?"


    "Sure. Move to my bed so that you''ll be more comfortable. By the way, why are you here?"


    "I got drunk."


    "Really?"


    "Yes, I was out of my mind and put myself at risk. So, auntie and uncle let me sleep here."


    "Why can''t I remember?"


    "You''re sleeping like a lard."


    "But-" Jane did not continue anymore. Perhaps, Allie facilitated her return and sent someone to take her and her car back home. What she didn''t expect was that Hayri got drunk also? With whom? With Miss Rona?


    "With whom were you drinking with?" Jane dared to ask, hoping in her heart it was not Rona. Why would he dare to come here anyway if he''s with her? Would it be too shameless of him? And why not? They were only friends, mere friends.


    She got humiliated at the thought, and she didn''t want to hear anymore.


    Hayri saw the change in her expression, and he stared at her. "Jane, why?"


    She smiled, and her eyes glistened with the tears gathering too quickly at the back of her eyes.


    "Never mind. Louise. I don''t want to know anymore."


    "Jane, why?"


    "Nothing, I said."


    "Tell me." Hayri sat up and reached for her hand, but she quickly moved past him and entered the bathroom.


    Jane felt more humiliated now that she was seeing Hayri. How could he ask her to give themselves a try, and yet he couldn''t do it himself? Why was he prompting her to learn to trust again, only to break it before it could even bloom?


    She didn''t know how long she stayed at the bathroom, but when she got out, Hayri''s hair was already wet and that he was already in his formal attire.


    "Jane, can you go with me, please?"


    "Where?"


    "I have an important meeting, and I need your opinion."


    "But-"


    ''No, but. I won''t accept no for an answer. I''ll wait for you outside."


    Jane was no longer able to refuse and to prove it to Hayri that his relationship to Miss Rona did not affect her, she wore the diamond necklace that Dr. Charles Madani gave. She wanted to pretend that she also only considered him as her mere best friend. She knew it was inappropriate to wear such an expensive necklace on a simple company meeting, but anyway, she could hide it under the bodice of her mini black dress.


    Mr.&. Mrs. Lopez was already in the dining room when they decided to grab something for breakfast. Mrs. Lopez stood up right away and pulled a chair for Hayri.


    "How are you, Louise? It''s good that you have brought with you an office attire."


    "Yes, auntie. We dropped by at home to pick a sleepwear and this one."


    "Thank you so much for everything, Louise. I hope you both can fix that up."


    Hayri smiled at them as he glanced at Jane then back to her parents. "I''m working on it."


    "Good. we''re happy about it."


    "Did you get enough sleep?"


    Mr. Lopez kicked his wife''s feet gently under the table. Her question could mean something else. However, Mrs. Lopez got more amused; she had already accepted the fact that after a reconciliation, intimate steps always follow. Jane and Hayri were already of marrying age, and she had previously expressed her desire for them to get married in the soon future. She even allowed Hayri to sleep in Jane''s room last night.


    She whispered into her husband''s ear, "I don''t care, and I mean it. I''m just being liberated."


    "Yes, auntie, but my back and thighs hurt."


    Mrs. Lopez laughed louder. "You''ll get used to it."


    Mr. Dioko shook his head. His wife already influenced him that he also had no problem with it. He liked Hayri to be his son-in-law than someone else whose background may not be familiar to them. But it still felt odd to ask about their post-intimacy aftereffects. How could his wife dare to ask if they even slept or what hurt afterward?


    Confused, Jane looked up. "What are you all talking about?"


    Mr.& Mrs. Lopez stared at each other, no longer sure if they were all following the same topic and if they had the same understanding of what they were talking about.


    "What is so confusing, my dear?" Hayri turned to Jane, amused. Of course, Jane didn''t know what was happening last night because she intoxicated herself with too much wine on her first time.


    "Everything, from the start of your conversation." Jane ran her eyes to the three of them, not smiling at all.


    "Auntie is asking if I get a good sleep last night because I was only sleeping on a couch."


    Mrs. Lopez got dumbfounded, and she looked at her husband, stifling a laugh. How could they be so dirty-minded?


    "We''re so sorry, son. You could have slept beside Kyle."


    Jane scratched her head, still unable to understand everything. "Dad, mom, why are you so sorry for Hayri? It''s his fault if he goes out with whoever they were and got drunk in the end. It was his fault if he took too much alcohol that he could no longer crawl back to their house.


    Hayri burst out laughing that he clawed an arm to her neck and pulled her close to him.


    "I''m sorry, dear. It''s not true that I got drunk."


    Allie and Ajie suddenly walked in; their eyes were on Jane and Hayri.


    "Hayri, what time did you both arrive-" Allie was about to ask, but Jane cut her off.


    "Sis, thank you for sending someone to-"


    The six of them stared at each other, and they all burst out laughing, realizing that their conversation that moment was all confounded.


    _________


    Jane was expecting a large crowd during the meeting, but to her surprise, only their marketing and purchasing officer came in. A few minutes after setting up the projector, Hayri sat down beside her.  No sooner than he held her hand and locked his fingers with hers, a beautiful and elegant woman walked in.


    The smile on Jane''s lips disappeared, and her heart ached again. She looked down and pretended to be busy with her phone.


    "Is this Dr. Jane, Hayri?"


    Jane looked up at the mention of her name. No matter how much it hurt her, she could still manage to be kind and give a smile.


    "Oh, you must be Dr, Jane. Hayri talks so much about you."


    Jane stood up and extended a hand. While they shook hands, the lady''s gaze glued on her pendant, and her smile disappeared.

 Chapter 280 - Home in Molave 26

    Jane froze at the woman''s sudden soured expression while she stood still for a moment, staring at her necklace. Before any of the two of them could get back to their senses, Hayri stepped in.


    "Rona?'' Hayri''s voice drew her out from her statued position.


    "I''m sorry," Rona''s eyes widened abruptly, guilty for her reaction, but she was quick to smile again, "I just remember something in the past."


    Jane was sure there was something in the smile as Rona pulled up a deep breath afterward, followed by a quick close of her eyes. Rona caught them staring at her in a bewildered looks, and she laughed. "Where did I stop? Oh," she paused and tapped her forehead with her two fingers, "Jane, I''m happy to see you. This friend of mine got me worried, really."


    "Rona, please sit down. You''re confusing Jane." Hayri then passed a look at Jane and when he saw it that she indeed wore a puzzled expression, he released her hand and wrapped her close to him in one arm.


    Jane stiffened as she stole a glance at Rona but to her embarrassment, Hayri chuckled.


    "Jane, I bring you here because I want to stop a misunderstanding right from the beginning. Rona is Allie and mine''s good friend while we were in Turkey and we first knew each other when she had one of her vessels docked in for repair. She knows about all of me and she knows about us."


    "That''s right, Jane. He knew that you came here yesterday morning and got crazy when he still couldn''t find you in the evening."


    Jane felt like melting in shame. How did Hayri found out about her feelings? And how could he expose her to Rona? She felt her color left her face and Hayri hugged her closer and pressed his lips on her temple. Jane knew such sweetness was beyond the bounds of mere friendship but she willingly submitted to it.


    "How did you find me?" she blurted, too ashamed to look up. She realized she should have chosen a different question.


    "Zheen-Ah...Allie helped me."


    "You still have not used in calling her by her real name?" Rona interrupted, laughing, and Hayri glared at her.


    Jane saw their exchanges and she butted in to change the topic. Though she completely understood, somehow, it pricked her heart. Just as how it affected her when she saw Ajie''s sweetness towards Allie before.  "How?"


    "If there''s a will, there''s a way-"


    "But the way only comes after getting scared to death," Rona finished it for him.


    Jane understood now that there was nothing between Rona and Hayri and she understood why he invited her here.


    "Jane, I''m so jealous that you bring those diamond earrings with you, but in your drunken state, you gave it as payment for the wine you bought."


    Jane and Rona gasped together in shock; she, at her foolishness, while Rona, at her another set of velvet diamond.


    "How did you get-" Rona and Hayri asked in unison, making them look at each other with a questioning look.


    "You, first," Hayri gave way, but Rona also urged him to speak first.


    "Mine is a long story."


    "I''m afraid Jane doesn''t want to talk about it," said Hayri as he looked into Jane''s eyes.


    Rona nodded and let out a thin smile. "I really want to share it with both of you but before that, let us not those gentlemen keep us waiting."


    Rona pointed out the purchasing and the marketing officers who were waiting outside for them. These gentlemen were the ones to discuss with her the types of materials she wanted to use for her enhancement. Their discussion started right away and soon, they went into the details of the designs. Jane was greatly amazed at the designs created by Allie. The three of them were giving in. Allie specialized in the yacht designs while Ajie focused on cruise sh.i.p.s. Hayri gave up designing and focused on construction and the rest of the processes.


    As soon as the meeting adjourned, the three went out to talk without any work-related interruptions. Hayri brought them to a restaurant at the hilltop where even lunchbreak would not be too crowded. They choose a private room where the glass wall overlooked a spectacular view of the lush greeneries and of the city''s outline below.


    Throughout the lunch, Rona had already started getting emotional. She didn''t each much, though she always managed to laugh and smile at the various irrelevant topics they brought up. When she saw them placing down their forks and spoon, she started to tell her story right away...


    ________


    "Dr. Madani, someone came over here to see Kristian just a few minutes after you left. He forced me to submit Kyle for a DNA paternity  test."


    "What? Why didn''t you tell me?" came Dr. Madani''s series of questions. The truth was that he was already expecting that Madame Theresa would inform him right away. As for what held her back, that was what he needed to know.


    "I waited first for the findings of the investigator."


    "And what about it?" Dr. Charles couldn''t understand but his heartbeats pounded against his chest, though he had seen no reason for it. He was never interested to know who the biological parents of Kristian were


    "The caretaker said that a woman left a note and addressed it to the director of the orphanage."


    The more Dr. Madani found himself getting nervous at her pieces of information. He was almost tempted to shout into the earpiece and scold her for speaking too slowly.


    "For a while, doc, I''ll get the note."


    Dr. Charles stood up from his seat and pounded his fist on the table. Damn it, Madame!


    "Doc, doc?"


    "Yes, madame. I''m here."


    "Doc," her quivering voice floated into the line, "I''ll read it to you, huh?"


    Dr. Madani greeted his teeth and snarled, "For eternity''s sake, madame, please speak fast!"


    Madame Theresa jumped up in fear, dropping the piece of paper into the ground. She hurriedly bent down to pick the note but the sudden gush of wind littered the paper away.


    "Madame, where are you?" Dr. Charles was already shouting but madame put down the phone away as she chased the rolling piece of paper in the ground.


    Too impatient to wait, Dr, Madani climbed into his chopper and after a few minutes, the roaring sound of the craft send the children out of their classrooms to watch the descending chopper on the school''s helipad.


    Dr. Madani hurried his steps towards the office of the directress but when the kids saw him, they ran and gathered around, hugging him.


    Madame Theresa''s knees started to shake when finally, Dr. Charles appeared at the door frame. She hurriedly stood up and handed the letter to him.


    "Dear sir,


    Please find a way to have him adopted by Charles Madani. If you can do this favor for me and see that my son is doing well, someday, I will come back and return you the favor. As an advance gift, I place two bracelets on my son''s feet. Take one and use it for the school''s treasury."

 Chapter 281 - Home in Molave 27

    "I want to talk to the director of the orphanage again, madame!"


    Madame''s frightened expression turned to sadness. "I''m sorry, doc, but Kristian is the last child admitted to this facility. The school director died of cardiac arrest when he learned that the center got burned down, including all the children''s records."


    "What?" Charles sank back in his chair in frustration, his hope to find the truth crumbled down. Then, he remembered that the letter mentioned two bracelets.


    "Madame, what about the other bracelets?"


    Madame snapped her fingers as she remembered the bracelets. She quickly stood up and motioned for Dr. Charles to follow him. They went inside a room that had a safety vault on a corner of a wall. Flipping on the code, Madame Theresa soon pulled out a jewelry box. Dr. Charles stared at it, and he held his breath when the box touched his fingers. He hurried to open it, and he almost fainted when he saw the velvet glow of the bracelet!


    Madame Theresa ran to him when she saw the color draining from his face. "Dr. Charles, Kristian is your son."


    Dr. Charles was too shocked to notice that Madame''s statement was not an interrogative sentence but a declarative one. Even if the letter did not include it, the woman who left the child confessed the truth to the caretaker. However, seeing his reaction at that moment, she realized she shouldn''t make a mistake. A hearsay is always not the truth.


    He dropped himself to the floor, devastated by a sense of guilt and a complicated emotion. He no longer needed proof. From the very beginning, he already had this unexplained emotional attachment to the child.


    "Madame, I want the paternity test as soon as possible."


    ________


    "Sir, someone wants to see you. Shall I let him in?" The secretary spoke into the line as soon as Markus picked it up.


    Markus smirked then gave a mirthless laugh, sending chills into the secretary''s spine. He already expected this. "Let him in."


    Dr. Charles soon stepped into the office and faster as a wink of an eye, he pulled a pistol from his side and aimed it at Markus. "Explain why you suddenly barged into the school and scare my son?"


    "Good question, Dr. Charles," Markus answered and looked straight into his eyes while he leaned his back on the chair''s backrest, not at all scared by the pointed gun.


    "Like you, I was in love. And like you, I also made love to the woman I dearly love a few days before your damn wedding. Don''t you ever think that I did not know about it."


    Dr. Charles froze at what he heard. He stared at him in shock and anger as he realized he fooled and won over him again. He still remembered the first night he had with Riza. Their foreplay was long, but Riza still screamed in so much pain as he successfully took down the emblem of his right to her as a husband.


    He felt the surge of blood into his temples, but he slowly put down the gun. He must know about the mystery that surrounded her and the answers to the many questions he long wanted to ask. Before he came back to his senses, he saw Markus pulling out an envelope in his drawer. He tossed it to him, and he also picked it up with watchful eyes.


    Still watching Markus through the corners of his eyes, he opened the sheet inside the envelope. He then began reading silently and confirmed that Riza underwent a v.i.r.g.i.nity restoration surgery called h.y.m.e.noplasty.


    "You both fooled me, Markus. How could you do it to me? Even if I did not love her, but I respected and honored her as my wife."


    Aside from the internal strifes that went on within Markus and his family, the sins Markus had against him sealed the finality of his revenge that day.


    "I hope we can already put it aside and move on. The three of us were just slaves to the rules of our families."


    Dr. Charles turned his back without a word, but Markus stood up quickly to catch him up.


    "Dr. Charles, I just want to know where my son is. You could keep him as your own but at least allow me to hug him. Allow me to hug the only perpetual reminder of the forbidden love that Riza and I shared. As I always said, you can not blame me."


    "I don''t know what you are talking about."


    "Let me make it clear to you. Had you not intervened, Riza and I could have lived a happy life in a faraway country. I don''t care about your family legacy and that velvet diamond you all cared so much about."


    Dr. Charles did no listen anymore. He stormed out of the room and flew back to Molave. He checked all the apparatus and had it prepared for their target date.


    "We can already have the trial tonight. Trial area, the one closest to the sea."


    ____


    At midnight, Leo heard a knock again. He no longer hesitated to open the window. He knew who was outside. Still, with his bonnet and a black windbreaker, Mr. Blacksmith greeted them with a slight bow of respect.


    "Tay, I hope by now that you are already done with the harvest. Invite all your farmers and their families for a post-harvest gathering in the festival area of the town. Tell everyone to bring every member of the household, may he be crippled or blind. I''ll send someone to facilitate, and then you can leave before the dark sets in."


    Early in the morning, after informing Ajie that they could already leave in the afternoon, Leo and Andrew started the dissemination of the invitation. Luckily, the people were receptive, and by noontime, the farmers began arriving at the designated place. Since the instruction to them was to stay overnight, they started building their tents right away. Some used empty sacks, and others used waved coconut leaves. As everyone had settled down after, foods arrived, and the feast started.


    Little did anyone know that later into the night, while the people were enjoying, and while Ajie took his family in the air, a strong earthquake crumbled down the hill closest to the sea. A huge tsunami broke out, its mighty wave even reaching the distant Madani Islands.


    Note: unedited

 Chapter 282 - Home In Molave 28

    Despite how the videos that proved Ebony Fighters was the culprit of the bombing incident went viral, the news of the earthquake near Molave beat the headlines the next morning. The epicenter was located at the hill near the mountain of Molave, crushing the hill into mounds of rocks, lime soil, and hewn down trees. Reports also had it that it capsized boats and washed off those huts by the shore.


    Somewhere in a hideout, the news caused a satisfactory smile on Dr. Madani''s lips. "It worked! So far, this bomb has the lowest capacity. So, start counting your days, Markus!"


    "Have you sent all the invitation to the party?" Dr. Nelson asked, his gaze focused on the screen that monitored all the damages their invention created during the trial.


    "Sure, every member of the Madani families except the evil line of Markus. I have also sent their hotel accommodations to make sure everybody comes."


    Dr. Nelson nodded, but a worried expression glimmered in his eyes. "Charles, are you sure you''ll do this? The earthquake this bomb would cause will shatter the islands into bits and even make them disappear from the face of the earth. So, it could also be the end of the family''s legacy of oil and mineral production. Not only that, but also your velvet diamonds."


    "I am sure, Nelson. This is for the justice our great-great-grandfathers whom these  people under Markus line exploited and murdered."


    "Yes, but we will also be destroying innocent lives."


    "They are also destroying innocent lives during their bombings. Not only these innocent people but our grandfathers who were the key to the growth and prosperity of the Madani Islands. Elson, I can never forget how they ruthlessly killed our grandparents just because of these treasures, despite their pleadings, and despite their bargaining. All because of greed for more wealth. So. I''m going to bury these treasure forever."


    "So, tonight, I''ll have these black boxes transported and planted in the fault line under the Madani Islands. The equipment and the vessels are already ready."


    Dr. Elson was referring to the types of equipment that would go down the earth''s crust and trace the fault line passing through the Madani islands. He was also referring to the submarine-like vessels that would carry all the pieces of equipment and the explosives. The sea at the foot of the mountains of Molave was a direct route to the thousands- of- miles distance of the Madani Islands.


    The Lopez family surveyed their properties in Molave to rule out the damages on their property. Except for trees hewn down, and some parts of the house collapsing, it did no other harm. The buildings of the resorts which were designed to withstand earthquakes had only minor damages. Leo now understood why Mr. Blacksmith asked them to leave. He also understood why he gathered the farmers on safer ground. So, Mr. Blacksmith was not heartless after all, even if he was related to the insurgents hiding in Molave.


    ________


    Jane and Hayri stared at Rona while she was finding the courage and the right words to start her confession. Not until this moment did they understand that someone as confident and elegant as Rona could also hold dark secrets and probably, some poignant memories in the past. Just a couple of minutes ago, she looked happy and formidable, but now she looked so lost and devastated.


    "Nine years ago, I was a simple island girl who lived on an island that the Madani rejected. I was the only daughter of a couple who chose a life away from the chaos of the Madani clan. At that time, the Madani''s were holding their heads high, despising people like us. So when a mighty typhoon took my parent''s life away, I lived on my own. At that time, I was about to enter college at the only university the Islands of Madani had."


    When neither Hayri nor Jane spoke out, Rona continued. "Since I didn''t have the means, I applied for a scholarship program through the help of Charles. His family owned the facility, anyway. I didn''t just get the scholarship; I also got a friend in him. Somehow, the friendship blossomed into a beautiful but forbidden relationship. Forbidden, because we both knew his family would never want me for Charles. However, Charles often sneaked out into the island where I lived, so the relationship deepened."


    "During those times that Charles sneaked into my home, I also learned that  Markus, his cousin,  was also sneaking there together with his Riza, his girlfriend. Though I always knew that I was not meant for Charles, I was still shocked to death when one day, Charles said goodbye to me because he was soon getting married to Riza. I felt it in my heart that Charles truly cared for me, but he was too weak to break the family''s rule."


    Whatever was the next part of the story, Rona didn''t get the nerves to speak up right away. She paused and gave in to an urge to sob. Hayri felt Jane stiffened as her story tugged her heartstring away. They thought Rona would stop right there as it took Hayri a couple of minutes to rub her back, but eventually, she continued.


    "We made love that night, and when I woke up in the morning, instead of finding him beside me,  I found boxes of jewelry. I knew what Charles implied in that.  So I left the island to find a greener pasture in big cities for my son using the money I got in selling a piece of jewelry and me.  Not only did I find a green pasture, but I also struck a pot of gold."


    "I met someone who helped me become what I am today, but that also made me decide to leave my son in an orphanage. I did not mean to abandon him, but processing the papers to bring him along with me was not easy. I came back a few months after to claim him, only to learn that fire brought the orphanage into a complete ruin. I did not know if my son survived, because the fire also burned the records into ashes and took the life of the school director."


    To Jane''s surprise, Rona looked up and reached for the velvet diamond necklace in Jane''s neck. "Jane, do you know why I got emotional when I first saw this necklace?  It''s because I know who the jeweler is. And that only jeweler in the world who produce velvet diamonds.is the father of my son."


    Note: I will edit this in the morning.

 Chapter 283 - Home In Molave 29

    Jane and Hayri stole a glance at each other. Would they tell her about Kyle? Would they tell her that the man behind the faceless Mr. Blacksmith was the man she was looking for?


    "Jane, don''t get me wrong. I know you can afford to buy these rare velvet diamonds as much you want, but what I want to point out is that Charles sells his pieces of jewelry through an exhibit which he organizes. I am just hoping that you have an idea where he is now because when you buy pieces of jewelry, you have to see Charles himself."


    Jane froze for a moment, how could she tell her about the mysteries of Charles Madani? Seeing her reaction, Hayri spoke for her.


    "Rona, since you wish to see Charles, why didn''t you go to any of his exhibits before?"


    -----


    Dressed in a black, diamond-embellished designer c.o.c.ktail attire, Rona walked towards the registration area. She saw to it that her velvet diamond pendant would be a piece of attraction on top of her strapless bodice. She didn''t know any of the business tycoons from all over the world who might be the attendees of this exhibit. Yet, she must show off that she was one of them through the expensive materials she wore.


    The usherettes at the entrance of the exhibit hall welcomed her with warm smiles and led her to the registration table. The beautiful lady behind the table stood up to greet her a pleasant afternoon with her captivating smile before she bent down to pick up the guest list. Rona smiled when she saw how the lady''s face lit up when her eyes wandered to her necklace.


    "Ma''am, kindly look for your name on this guest book and write your signature at the side. Then, please give me your proof of invitation so I could give you your ID card."


    Rona stood frozen for a second. This part was her dreaded moment. She was informed lately of this exhibit and had not coordinated with the organizer to get an invitation.


    "Miss, I''m sorry I did not have any of these, but I can present any proof you want or any requirement you need to get an invitation."


    The lady smiled sadly but turned her down politely. "I''m really very sorry, ma''am. I know it in my heart that you are not a threat to our security, but please understand that I am only following orders".


    Rona smiled back and threw her last card for a chance to see the person behind the velvet diamonds. She traveled this far from the other part of the world, and she would not allow to get denied easily.


    "Miss, can you just please pass a word to Charles that I am here? Just tell him that my name is Rona."


    Rona prayed silently that this lady would cooperate. She even used their first name to prove to her that she knew Charles personally.


    "Sure, ma''am. Just please leave your number so that I can inform you regarding his decision on this." The lady then picked up the guest book again and showed her the space where she should write her contact details.


    After writing her pieces of information, another guest came, so the lady dismissed her again. She could do nothing else than wait for her call. She stayed in the nearest coffee shop, but the night came, and there was no single call coming from the organizer. However, she got an email informing her of the date of the next exhibit. Perhaps, Charles did not want to see her, probably because of what Charles may think of her-- she was insignificant to him.


    She returned home and promised herself that on the next exhibit, she would comply with all the needed requirements. However, when the time came, the weather was terrible, causing the cancellation of all flights scheduled that day. She waited for the next announcement, but whatever was the reason behind, the company suddenly informed her through an email that they held the exhibits temporarily until further notice. She sent back an email inquiring them if it was possible to communicate with the company owner, but she got no reply. The company also deleted all its contact information and just vanished like vapor in the air.


    Rona''s spirit sank. A lot of questions and insecurities lingered in her mind. Did Charles know that she was one of the guests? Did that lady informed him about her? Did she know about their son?


    ________


    After telling her story, Rona held both of Jane''s hands and looked at her with pleading eyes.


    "Jane, there''s not a single day that passes by without me blaming myself for leaving my son. I can accept if he was one of those poor kids who got burned, but what if he is alive? What if he is out there in the streets? Jane, in my heart, I can feel he is still alive, and he needs me."


    Rona sobbed hard after this, breaking Jane and Hayri''s heart apart. However, they were afraid of their lives, Kyle''s life. Yet, what if Kyle is Rona''s son? How could they deny Kyle of his need for a long lost mother?


    After battling against her conflicting emotions inside, Jane finally opened up.


    "Rona, I never get the chance to talk to Mr. Mandani, but he left these pieces of jewelry in my room-"


    "What?"


    "What? Is he able to break in again despite the security? What were those men doing? Sleeping?"


    Rona and Hayri reacted simultaneously, making Rona''s heart stop beating for a moment. Her jaw dropped in watching their exchanges, wondering at the same time why Hayri mentioned something about beaking in and about tight security.


    "No, Louise, listen. I checked the video footage, but they were doing their job well. I also checked the ceiling, but there''s no sign of him breaking through it. I just woke up in the morning, finding those pair of earrings in my dressing table."


    "Maybe, it''s through Kyle. Did you ask the boy-" In the height of the tension, Hayri forgot that he should not mention anything about Kyle.


    "Boy?'' Rona''s eyes widened, her heart leaping with the tiny ray of hope.


    Jane and Hayri looked at each other until Jane decided to speak up for the two of them.


    "Yes, a boy, An eight-year-old boy left to us by Dr. Charles Madani."


    Rona slumped into her seat as Jane confirmed it. Her lips turned white, and her eyes seemed to burst out from its sockets.


    Hayri then proceeded to tell her the story. Since they had started opening up, why not tell everything?


    In the end, Jane suggested, "Ron, why not do a DNA test?"

 Chapter 284 - Home In Molave 30

    I had some blood drawn out to me. I was scared, but teacher Jane said I should be a brave boy like you."


    Dr.Charles jolted from his seat. Why would Jane had his son''s blood drawn? Was he sick? Or, had Markus found out about Kyle? The primary reason why he adopted Kristian was because he wanted to mislead Markus about his son. He didn''t want him to use Kyle in his revenge against him.


    "Did teacher Jane told you why?"


    "Yeah, she said it''s a routine medical checkup."


    Dr. Charles sighed in relief and sank back to his seat. It was only a routine checkup. Dr. Jane was a pediatrician, and probably, she wanted to make sure that the children were in good health. Yet, he still felt uneasy about it. He stood up and strode towards his chopper, and in a couple of minutes, he was already in his house in the city.


    Once he stepped down from the aircraft, he went directly to his car and drove towards the laboratory, where he sent Kristian''s specimen for the DNA paternity test. While he tried to find a better parking location, he saw a familiar figure emerging from his car. He moved slowly, and once the man walked toward the entrance of the building with his back on him, he stepped on his brakes abruptly, making a screeching sound. Just as he intended, the man turned in his direction and he froze for a moment. It was Hayri.


    He consoled himself and diverted his suspicion. Perhaps, Hayri is here on another purpose, he thought. Perhaps, he is not here to send Kyle''s specimen for a DNA testing as per Markus'' demand. Perhaps, he is just too paranoid to think that Markus finally located Kyle. These were among the questions that kept playing in his mind.


    However, when he passed by the door of a cafeteria, he quickly jumped to hide in a corner. They may be some distance apart from him, but he could see it clearly! Hayri was talking to Markus!


    Dr. Charles retraced his steps and went to another corridor that would lead him directly to the releasing window. Once the result was released, he hurried back to his car and turned on his spy app. Watching Hayri and Markus from the spy app monitor he installed in his car, he opened the envelope that contained the paternity testing result.


    "Based on the testing result obtained from the analyses of the DNA loci listed, the probability of the paternity is 99.99998%."


    Dr. Charles felt his heart suddenly dropped, and his mind went blank for a moment. Kristian is his biological son? What about Kyle? Did it mean that Rona got pregnant indeed and left their child at that orphanage with all that instruction? How could she have the heart to leave him and be in the care of another for eight years? What would happen if he did not adopt his son? Was she sick with a fatal disease? Is she still alive? Another set of questions racked his mind again.


    A lump formed in Charles'' throat as he thought about how Kristian lived throughout those years when he could afford a decent home? Even if he left Kyle in the care of a relative in a foreign country, Kyle grew up knowing him. Every time he was around, he went home to him while he only gave Kristian a short visit each time. He even put him at risk in his intention to mislead Markus in tracking Kyle.


    _________


    "Hayri!"


    "Markus!"


    The two men called out in unison. Markus chuckled and continued to speak first. "Why are you here?"


    "Just doing some laboratory test," Hayri replied, but his shocked expression did not escape the sharp senses of Markus.


    There must be something this man was hiding, Markus thought. Was he betraying him?  Was he the one who uploaded the video that went viral despite his means to stop it? Did he have an accomplice in the organization, giving him the recorded evidence of their crime?


    "I see."


    "What about you?" Hayri countered his question.


    Markus thought about trapping him further. He would see his reaction after reading the result. If his actions were suspicious, it could mean he was right. He was spying on him.


    "I come here for this," Markus replied, handing him the envelope. "Open it up."


    Hayri lifted his brows in a puzzled expression. Why would Markus allow him to a confidential record?


    Markus understood his reaction, and so he pulled it out himself and handed it to him. "Hayri, we are friends. I just want to share it with you."


    Hayri opened up the folded sheet of paper, and his eyes widened in surprise!


    "According to our analyses, the percentage of the probability excluded Markus Madani as the father of the child named Kristian Madani."


    Markus tried to note Hayri''s tiny reaction, but Hayri gathered his brows instead, confused.


    "I don''t understand. You lost a child?"


    Markus laughed at his apparent innocence. "You''re right, Hayri. I was in love with a cousin named Riza, the wife of my paternal cousin, Charles Madani. Before their wedding, Riza gave herself to me, and lately, I learned that the baby she carried on her w.o.m.b was mine. However, Charles hides him from me, and until now, I don''t know where he is. A few days ago, I followed him as he went to see his son in a somewhat boarding school. I was happy that finally, I discovered where he hides the child. I presumed he is mine, only to see this result."


    "I''m sorry."


    "I don''t understand why Riza did this to me. She asked me to donate blood to our ailing relative before, only to know that she took a blood sample from it. Just lately, I learned that she used the sample for a fetal cell analysis via a non-invasive prenatal paternity test, I then knew that the father was me."


    "With this result, I don''t know anymore, Hayri, if she was fooling me, or Charles influenced her to do so. I''m sure he wouldn''t be happy to know that despite his condition to marry a v.i.r.g.i.n bride, I broke it a few days before their wedding. I even accompanied her to do a v.i.r.g.i.nity restoration surgery."


    Staring at him, Hayri got lost in his thoughts. This was too much of an information. Could it mean that Kyle is his son and that child Charles left in that school is Rona''s son?"


    Markus watched Hayri while he seemed to be absorbing everything he confessed. All of a sudden, he remembered the child he saw at Molave. No matter how he tried to shake off his suspicion, he still could not put it off his mind that the child had the strong features of a Madani child.

 Chapter 285 - Home In Molave 31

    Dr, Charles watched in horror as he watched Markus aiming a pistol at the laboratory personnel through his spy app monitor. Since he was not able to plant a hearing device at the laboratory, all he could do was watch and wonder why he was threatening the poor guy. Perhaps, he was angry about the result. And maybe, he was suspicious that it was falsified.


    Turning on the ignition key, Dr. Charles left the parking. He had his more straightforward method of knowing about the commotion. He could break into the laboratory files without the need of hacking their system and risk himself of being traced. He then went straight to Kristian''s school and gave his son the tightest and the longest hug a father could give to a son.


    "Son, give me a few more days, and I will take you home with me."


    "Home, dad? Does it mean I will live with you?" Kristian''s eyes were as wide as the full, new moon.


    "Yes, son. I promise you that." For the first time, tears slid down from his eyes, his thoughts wandering to a simple island girl he loved so much. Where could she be at this moment? Is she still alive? Is she still on the island?


    "Really, dad?"


    "Yes, son. Let''s go to an island and find your mom."


    "Do I have a mom?"


    Kristian''s face lit up as he glowed in the excitement of having a mother. He always envied his classmates who had moms to bring them lunch or snacks, and parents to pick them up. Madame Theresa was kind to him, and she took care of all his needs, but he knew he was not a birth mother.


    "Of course."


    "Is he a true mom?"


    "Of course."


    Kristian placed himself in Charles'' lap. He raised his two hands and cupped his face.


    "You know dad, how I wish you are my real dad."


    Charles ached at his words. He was still very young, but he acted and felt like a child older than his age. Kyle did not deserve this premature growth. Charles wanted him to live a normal eight-year-old child.


    _______


    When the long hand of the clock hit the number 12, Charles slid into his car and drove back to the laboratory building. Using his Doorz app, he deactivated the CCTV''s, sprayed unscented inhalants to the laboratory personnel, and proceeded to check the logbook. To his surprise, he saw Hayri''s name on the logbook, but his request was a drug test for the renewal of his driver''s license. However, he saw Markus''s name and the request he made. Delving into the file for the hard copies, he soon found a copy of the DNA paternity result.


    Dr. Charles got amused at the thought of how frustrated Markus must have been, but he also knew Markus wouldn''t give up easily. He recalled the outburst Markus did a while ago and concluded that it must be about his suspicion that the result was fabricated. It only meant he also had to keep Kristian far away from him.


    _______


    Two days after, Hayri received a notification that the laboratory sent an email to him. It was about the result of the DNA tests he requested to rule out two probabilities; either Rona was the biological mother of Kyle or the biological mother of Kristian. After Markus confided him on the result of the DNA test, he talked to the laboratory head. He succeeded in convincing her also to do a test for Rona''s probability as Kristan''s mother.


    Hayri did not open the mail; he waited until Jane and Rona could be with him. Inviting them both for dinner later, he surprised them with this announcement after their meal.


    "Hayri, I felt like fainting," Rona said, her knees were indeed shaking.


    "Should I wait for you to calm down first?" asked Hayri, closing the laptop right away without waiting for her reply.


    "No! Open it right now. I''m dying to know."


    Hayri chuckled, how always confusing women could be! He looked up at Jane, and he also saw that her hands were shaking, and she was as anxious as Rona. He turned to her first and wrapped an arm around her while his other hand reopened his laptop.


    "Relax, Jane. I don''t want to attend two fainting ladies."


    Jane managed a smile, and Hayri pulled her closer and kissed her temple. As soon as the mail opened, three pairs of eyes went down to the conclusion.


    "Based on the studies conducted, as shown in the graphs above, Kyle Madani is excluded from the two alleged sons of Rona Graciano. Therefore, Kristian Madani is the biological son of Rona Graciano."


    Rona''s whole body shook as she broke down into a wail. Jane got off from Hayri''s arm as she took Rona into her shoulders and allowed her to pour out her complicated feelings of joy, loneliness, and desire to hole her son again.


    While Rona was still crying, another notification popped up. It also came from the laboratory. Hayri hurried to open it, only to get horrified by the news.


    "Sir,


    As the head of this unit, may I ask you to store the result and allow us to delete it from our records completely? A certain Markus Madani threatened us two days ago and tried to invade our privacy and confidentiality. He asked about the tests you were requesting, and we were glad that he was satisfied when he read the logbook."


    Hayri smiled; he already anticipated this. He was already familiar with the moves of Markus Madani. He always threatened anyone who got in his ways, not exempting the government whose patience on him had thinned out. They had tried to negotiate several peace talks with him, but he firmly stood his ground. His endless cry was the independence of the Madani Islands for him to monopolize.


    Rona insisted on seeing Kristian that night. Despite Hayri''s worries of being monitored by Markus after showing him the DNA test result, it was also difficult to refuse against the wishes of a mother who longed to see her child. To spare Jane the possible trouble, he offered to bring her home first. Whatever was the outcome tonight, he had to execute the plan he was planning a long time ago. He had to learn the ways of Charles Madani. He could not allow him to break into her room anytime he wanted. No matter how much he would protect her, his capacities were but a speck against the Blacksmith''s ability.

 Chapter 286 - Home In Molave 32

    "Jane, wait for me tonight," Hayri said as they walked slowly through the cemented path towards the main door of Jane''s house. The night was already silent except for the sound of the distant footsteps of the guards roaming around the premises. Rona just waited for him in the car.


    "Why?"


    "I can''t let you stay alone in your room anymore after knowing that Charles entered your room again."


    Jane turned to face him and looked at him in the eyes. "Don''t worry, Louise. He won''t harm me, I''m sure of that."


    "Look, Jane.  I can''t let him go on giving you his diamonds. I know what''s next to that." Hayri''s hold on her shoulders tightened.


    "He''s only paying me for having his son under my care. Those diamonds, according to Rona, is his business. So, it meant nothing if he gives it out,"


    "Maybe yes, for now, but I won''t give him the chance."


    Jane laughed. Her spine crept up at the thought of having a suitor as weird as Charles. "Louise, what are you talking about? You''re funny. What will Rona feel if she hears you talking like that?"


    Hayri did not answer anymore but took her hand and locked it with his until they reached the door.


    "Jane," Hayri finally broke his silence again when they reached the doorstep. "it may be hard to forget the past and move on because Zheena had become such a part of my heart, but I am sure I have already succeeded in accepting the fact that she is my sister. The day  I followed you at Chara Island, was the day I knew that I can already look at her straight in the eyes without the pang of pain."


    Jane remained silent as she stared at him in the dim light, listening to every word he spoke. Though she wondered where this sudden confession would go through, she admired him for all the honesty coming from his mouth.


    "When one learns to accept, moving on becomes as easy as breathing. These past days, I also realized that I have learned something. It may not be perfect yet, but someday soon it will."


    "What did you learn?" she asked, but as she looked up, she met Hayri''s tender gaze. There was something in that look, and her heart started to pound louder. She leaned her back on the door for support and her heart thumped even louder when Hayri placed both of his hands at the door, trapping her in between.


    "I love you, Jane. As I said, it is not yet perfect perhaps but-"


    "Hayri-"


    Jane was about to talk but Hayri covered her mouth. He couldn''t afford to hear words of rejection from her. Not now. It took him too hard to get the courage to confess, to make her understand.


    ''It is alright, Jane. I can wait until the time comes that you can also move on from Adrian. I know better than anyone else about how you feel because I was also there."


    Jane chuckled as her heart warmed up to a new hope, a new beginning, and to the beautiful feeling of loving again.


    "What are you talking about? I have moved on a long time ago because I knew where I stand from the very beginning. Only that, I don''t want to make the same mistake again."


    "What do you mean by that?" Hayri''s heart sank but he wouldn''t give up. He swore he was willing to let time heal and make themselves ready to learn to love again.


    "I think I also do-"


    "Do what?"


    "The special feeling is mutual, Louise. I think-"


    "Make it clear, Jane."


    "I also love you, Louise, " Jane''s sight suddenly blurred with tears and to hide it, she pressed her head on Hayri''s chest while her fingers crept to brush it away.


    "Just when?"


    Jane shook her head vigorously and begged, "Don''t ask me, please."


    "Why?" Jane shook her head again and buried her face in his chest. She was just too shy to admit that she got jealous of Rona.


    Hayri''s heart soared to the skies as he wrapped Jane in her arms. He was no longer willing to leave to accompany Rona to the school. Yet, love can wait. He must first remove all the possible blockages that may come in their way.


    "Thank you, Jane. Let''s make it better every day."


    Jane smiled and pushed him away. "Go, now. If you''ll stay for another minute, I might never let you go."


    Hayri hugged her again and kissed her forehead before he turned away. "Wait for me."


    "I will."


    The trip to the school was silent. Hayri''s thoughts were with Jane and his next plan while Rona got herself drowned with worries and excitement. After about an hour, Hayri pulled to a stop in front of the school.


    The guard brought them to Madame Theresa after showing their identifications. As the name behind a famous shipping line, the guard did not hold them long.


    "Madame, we are here to see Kristiane Madani."


    Madame Theresa stiffened, unable to decide right away whether or not, she would deny or tell them the truth.


    "How do you know about the child?"


    "Markus is someone I know and he showed me the DNA paternity test result. It also happens that we are looking for a child we left at an orphanage."


    "Please understand that you just can''t see any child under our care just because you are looking for a child. It''s for their safety and protection.''


    Rona had gone impatient though she understood. Her excitement to see him knew no rules or policy.


    "Madame, here''s another test result and here''s my identification card. I am dying to see my son."


    Madame hurriedly went down to the analysis. She grabbed the identification card and she jumped from her seat, hugging the paper. "Lord, finally you answer my prayer for my boy."


    The next moment, she was crying and laughing, reading the result again and again.


    "Madame, please, let me see my son!" Rona almost dropped her knees to the floor to beg.


    Madame finally rested from her overwhelmed state and she reached out her hands to hold both of Rona''s shoulders.


    "I know it, I know it. That''s why my boy looks so good, and it''s indeed because you''re so beautiful."


    "Madame-"


    All of a sudden, Madame Theresa''s expression dropped. "Dear, Dr. Charles took Kristian earlier. He said Kristian is going to live with him from then on."

 Chapter 287 - Home In Molave 33

    The registration officer of the Velvet Fighters picked up his ringing call. It was already nine in the evening.


    "I''m joining."


    "Congratulations, sir! May I know your name, please?"


    "Just call me, Mr. Anonymous. I opt for the account that would entitle me to be a user of your products."


    The higher form of membership did not include one to join the battle of any issue that faced them every day. Like lately, when the bombing incident shook the nation, they held meetings to come up with solutions as to how to expose the Ebony Fighters. Since they were a large organization, their connections were extensive, and so their opposing team would have a hard time countering them. An example of that was how the Ebony Fighters were unsuccessful in stopping the spread of the videos that point them as the culprit. As much as possible, this movement did a huge campaign to stop the effort of the opposite party to rule their country. The inc.u.mbent rulers couldn''t easily intercept them, this group had foreign connections.


    When one was a holder of a higher account, one did not need to join the planning but he would have to support the plans through financial matters and connection links. One would also be counted as elite members and therefore, could have access to their available inventions like trackers, spy app, Doorz ap, explosives, high-caliber pistols, and many more. He could choose to be anonymous, and he deserved the right to hide his identity. The organizers took an oath to respect one''s desire for secrecy and, therefore, would not use their inventions to track him down. Even during elite meetings, one could still attend while retaining their secret identity by wearing masks and bonnet. However, none of the elites had seen the two pillars of the Velvet Fighters, Mr. Blacksmith and Mr. Purplesmith, who was Dr. Elson Madani.


    "Sir, if you wish to hide your identity, just please come to the office for the electronic sealing. It would only take you a few minutes."


    The moment one wired his elite membership fee, the organization would send the membership code right away. He would then use the membership code as his access to the office or the elite member''s entrance for the electronic sealing and then to the sealing apparatus. Everything he needed following that, would then transpire online.


    "I will be there."


    "Alright, sir. After your sealing, you may start ordering the products you like. For safety, log it on to the machine beside the scanner, or you may send it online. You can have it tomorrow."


    _____


    While Markus was following a car, one of his spies called up.


    "Sir, our tracker detected a new member registering tonight. His name is Mr. Anonymous."


    Markus laughed hard. "Don''t worry, man. The remaining time left for them is already too short. "


    "He had just come out for sealing. His car''s plate number is-"


    Markus laughed louder. "You''re a snake, my friend. That is why you refuse to support me because you have other plans."


    He dialed another number and gave his order. "Ten kilometers from the north point, silver Land Rover Range Rover Sport with plate number xxxx. Arrest him now and bring him to our hideout in Madani Island."


    "Got it, sir."


    With a last look at the car he specified, he made an abrupt turn."I''m sorry, man. I was once a good citizen, but some people forced me to become evil. There''s only one who can bring back my good, old self. My son, and the love of my life. Sadly, my handsome cousin took her life away."


    Markus pulled to a stop as his thoughts went back to an incident nine years ago.


    "Markus, can you please come over to the house? I''ll show you the secret pass," Riza''s loud whisper echoed from the other line. Her eyes were wide with excitement as she rubbed her baby bump, her hand holding a piece of paper.


    "Riz, no. Charles might catch us."


    "Markus, please. I want you to be the first to kiss your son first before Charles claims him as his own. And I also have another surprise for you. You won''t take long, I promise." Riza held up the paper. It contained proof that the child was his.


    "Is Charles not around?" The worried tone of Markus scared Riza, afraid that he wouldn''t show up.


    "Markus, you won''t regret it. This is about your son. I''ll make him busy while I sneak out to the secret pass. He wouldn''t doubt it because he doesn''t think I can betray him while he''s around. And it''s not betrayal. I''m just going to show you something."


    "I''ll be there in 30 minutes. Show me the way."


    Riza did not know that Charles had just invented a type of tracker that detects communication signals, alarming him of every call and message made by anyone in the household. He could even listen to their communication if he chose to.


    Charles waited, and while he did, he called up the family of Markus and Riza to witness the incident. They all came while Riza was at the secret pass. They gathered at the terrace that overlooked the passageway, giving them a clear view without being noticed.


    "Mom, Dad, I''m sorry if I won''t be able to control myself," Charles informed his parents-in-law, his body shivering in anger.


    "If she does something malicious, it is unacceptable, not to mention that they are cousins. Right, dear?" Riza''s father replied, then turned to his wife as he raised the question.


    "Of course," Riza''s mother answered, her lips quivering. What if his husband already knew that Riza is not his daughter and that she and Markus were really not cousins?


    Before the eyes of everyone, they watched as Markus opened the gate. As soon as he saw Riza standing at the side, he wrapped her in his arms, kissing her afterward in an unrestrained passion. The kiss went deeper, and his hands roamed around her body. As he lifted her dress and massaged her b.r.e.a.s.ts while indulging in a French kiss, Charles could not take it anymore. He pulled out his gun, pulled the trigger, and fired it, sending the two lovers to the ground.


    Charles did not glance at them even once as he walked out of the house.  Fortunately, the law of the Madani Islands did not hold him guilty with all the evidence of his wife''s betrayal. He also refused to file a case against Markus. He had grander plans.

 Chapter 288 - Home In Molave 34

    It was already two in the morning, but Hayri did not come. Jane called him up, but his phone was off. He promised to come, and he even asked her to wait but many hours had passed already, but still, there was no news from him. Jane was getting worried; Hayri was always sincere. If he did not come, there must be a heavy reason. She called up Rona, but the latter confirmed that they didn''t take long in the school since Kristian was not there.


    A few minutes after, she heard the sound of a chopper passing by. Then, the soft pitter-patter of the falling rain that followed progressed to a deafening roar of a heavy deluge. She slid into the covers of her bed and pulled it up until her chin, her thoughts were on Hayri. She decided to wait until morning before she would inform everyone about his disappearance. She did not want them to worry unnecessarily. What if Hayri just got exhausted, fell asleep unintentionally, and did not realize that his phone had gone off?


    Somehow, her head started to get groggy as sleepiness started to wear her down. Just when she was about to close her eyes, the door that separated her from Kyle opened up. She thought it was Kyle, but when a large figure appeared at the doorframe, she jolted up.


    "Good morning, Jane. I''m sorry I have to do this, but I will explain. Trust me. I will never harm you."


    "Who are you?" Jane asked, her eyes darting sparks of fear and confusion. Though his tender eyes suggested a gentle personality, and though his handsome features were far from the looks of an assassin she often saw in movies, her reflexes suddenly dictated her to run away.


    "I''m Mr. Blacksmith, and you must have known by now that I am Charles Madani."


    Jane sighed in relief, she couldn''t explain, but somehow, something in her heart told her that this man wouldn''t hurt her.


    "Who''s spirit wouldn''t fly away with the way you make your grand appearance? What kind of superpower do you have?"


    Charles smiled and sat down at the couch across her, placing one leg over the other. It seemed he had no plan of disappearing soon.


    "I don''t have a superpower, but I am an inventor of many apparatus and types of equipment that make everything possible for me."


    To her surprise, Charles exposed many things about himself, such as his inventions, underground movement against Markus, the mission and vision of the Velvet Fighters, and even his plan to shatter the whole Madani Islands. The only thing he did not expose was his love life.


    "Thank you so much for confiding, Dr. Charles," Jane said, too overwhelmed by the load of information she got.


    "It''s because I trust you. If you want to talk to me, just speak through the gadget in Kyle''s wrist."


    Jane''s eyes widened as he said that. For so many times, she saw Kyle talking to himself. Who would have thought that he was actually talking to his father?


    "I would also be placing another for Kristian."


    "Kristian?"


    Charles chuckled when he saw her reaction. "Jane, I''m asking you for another favor. I would like to leave him also to you. It''s like this."


    Charles then narrated his love story, starting from Rona as the island girl, then to his tragic marriage with Riza and down to the reason why he pulled him out of the orphanage.


    "I''ll be paying you for everything, from the nannies to your expenses."


    Jane smiled to herself. The monetary value of the pieces of jewelry he gave her would already cover many years if expenses were the issue. However, he could not pay for the danger he put her family into.


    "I''m hoping that after this, I could focus on being one of your suitors someday."


    Jane''s eyes rounded in shock. He really had the nerve to say it!


    "I''m not going to say sorry, Jane. I already had the crush on you while we were in the university."


    Jane became speechless! Should she tell him about Hayri? Part of her said yes and part of her said no. She couldn''t put Hayri at risk. What if Charles would remove him out of his way?


    _____


    Early the next morning, when Jane still had no news of Hayri, she already felt uneasy. She called up Ajie and informed him of what happened. Soon, all of them went to the home of the shocked Mr. Dioko. Calling up all his men and his private investigators, he sent all of them to find Hayri but all of them returned empty-handed.


    Soon, the news of Hayri''s disappearance hit the headlines that day. Some netizens said, his disappearance could be a kidnap-for-ransom strategy. Some said it was again the work of the Ebony Fighters, seeking for the government''s attention. As soon as the Velvet fighters heard it,  they traced it right away and in a few minutes, they uploaded a video to the internet, showing the people how Hayri was forcefully tucked into the car and held as a prisoner at the Mandani Island.


    Jane cried hard. They were all scared and sad for him, but Jane was the most affected. It was just last night since they declared their love for each other. It was just last night since they both looked forward to a happier and lovelier relationship. Yet, he was gone.


    To have peace and privacy at the moment while her family thought of a myriad ways to get to Hayri, she went to her room. Thinking about Kyle that she may have overlooked, she peeped at him through the hole at the door.


    "Dad, please help daddy Hayri. He''s lost," cried Kyle, his back at the bedboard.


    Jane remembered Charles and the high chances that he could help them, she strode towards him and sat beside him. Gazing at the toy-like gadget, she spoke into it.


    "Dr. Charles, I need to talk to you."


    Note: HI, all! I will be editing this one tomorrow before I start on a new chapter. My lids are already dropping.

 Chapter 289 - Home In Molave 35

    Hayri woke up to a loud laughter piercing in his ears. He realized he was handcuffed and tied to a chair. He tried to recall what prompted these people to bring him here, and all he could remember was the vague memory of three men stopping him on his way to Jane''s home. He had not changed yet into his casual clothes when these men appeared. The point of a gun aimed at him forced him to open his door. Though his father got himself involved in a syndicate, and though he paid some men to track Allie before, he had never undergone any self-defense training. Mr. Doko kept him away from any of these.


    To his surprise, the man he wanted the least to see, walked towards him.


    "I never expect that you will betray me, Louise. So, the reason why you did not accept my invitation is because you plan to side with the enemy."


    "It''s not what you think. Markus. I''m actually on your side. I''m just planning to dig out a secret in that organization after you showed me the DNA result."


    Hayri knew he was putting Jane at risk, but he also knew it could be the only way he could escape from here.


    "And why do you think I should believe you?" Markus smirked, and his eyes seemed to throw daggers towards him.


    "Because you should."


    Markus laughed mirthlessly, shaking his head in feigned pity for his unwanted way to die. "You indeed know how to fool me."


    "I''m not. Honestly, we are aiming at the same person."


    "What do you mean?"


    "I''m just trying to find means to get rid off of a rival who happens to be the faceless, Mr. Blacksmith. I believe he is related to the Velvet Fighters. This man keeps on sending gifts for Jane and I can''t accept it."


    "And who do you think is the man behind Mr. Blacksmith?"


    "That is what I hoped to know when I registered as a member of Velvet Fighters."


    "And do you think you can easily fool me?"


    "You also know me very well. I never make jokes."


    "I''m sorry, Louis. Whatever is your intention, I have nothing to do with it. It doesn''t change the fact that the moment you signed your membership with them, you have become my enemy."


    _________


    "Dr. Charles, I want to talk to you."


    "Sure, dear, but I will also be bringing Kristian along, if you have not changed your mind."


    In less than thirty minutes, Dr.Charles was already at the entrance of their house. After knowing who was there, her family, as well as Mr. Dioko, flocked to her room.


    "Jane, are you really allowing him to get inside?" Mr. Lopez asked, his expression implied worry and fear.


    "Dad, he is the best person to help us with Hayri."


    "But, Jane, what if Hayri is a threat to his personal intention for you?" Ajie objected, and this aroused an awkward feeling on her behalf.


    Somehow, she had come up with an alibi. "Trust me. I have solutions to that, and oh, I have missed out on something, but that can wait. We should not keep him waiting."


    "Alright."


    Jane met him at a gazebo in the garden. He was indeed with a child, and her heart bounced in thinking that finally, Rona could see her son again.


    "Hello, Kristian! What a lovely child you are!" Jane ignored the wide grin of Charles, her eyes were on Kristian. Judging from his expensive clothes, his healthy and glowing skin, it showed that he was very well taken care of.


    "Good morning, Dr. Jane! Dad already tells me about you and Kyle." Kristian smiled with a look of pride as he glanced at his father, standing by his side.


    Jane passed a glance at Dr. Charles, a smile remained plastered in her face. "So, are you willing to be with your brother?"


    "Of course. All my life, I have been longing for a family. I already have a dad, a brother, and hopefully, a mother soon."


    Jane smiled as a reply while hugging him, but deep inside, she was wondering what Kristan meant about having a mother soon. Did Charles told him something about pursuing her?


    Jane called for a helper and asked her to bring Kristian to Kyle, but she suddenly stopped when she realized she had missed something. She turned to look at Dr. Charles.


    "Have the two met already?"


    "I brought Kyle many times to the school."


    Jane sighed in relief, waiting for Kyle and the helper to disappear. Then she gestured for Dr. Charles to sit down across her on a table.


    "What is it that you wish to talk about?"


    "Dr. Charles, please help us with Hayri. You must have heard about the news."


    "What? So it is him that the Ebony Fighters abducted."


    "Have you seen the news?"


    "Of course, Jane. My team is the one who uploaded that video and threw it back to Ebony again. I did not recognize him because he wore a disguise suit, but we recognize him as Mr. Anonymous, our new member who registered last night."


    Jane stared at him in shock. She knew Hayri did it for her. Even if he mentioned nothing about his plan, she understood that he registered because he wanted to dig deeper into the movement''s secret activities. He wanted to know the apps Charles used, and he wanted to avail of their inventions to keep her safe.


    "Dr. Charles, please. You have ways to rescue him," Jane''s vision already blurred with tears. She looked away to conceal her tears, but the more it flowed.


    "Who is he to you?" Dr. Charles question made her stop brushing her tears away. She remembered Ajie''s caution on her, and the voices inside her mind debated whether she would confess or not.


    "Hayri, as you know, is my best childhood friend. He is already a family to us."


    "I can help you, Jane, but because this entails a hazardous move, I''ll do it with a condition."


    "If I can do it, I am very willing to comply."


    "Marry me."

 Chapter 290 - Home In Molave 36

    "What do you say?"


    "You heard it right, Jane. I said, marry me."


    "Dr. Charles, crush and love are two different things."


    "I know, but everything can be learned if you open your heart to it. We can work on it."


    "It''s not as easy as you think. I don''t want to bind myself into a loveless marriage."


    Dr. Charles chuckled, his eyes fixed on Jane, challenging her. " Just think about it, Jane. If you agree to marry me, your best friend will be free. Though it''s indeed risky, but I know a way that would make Markus release him."


    "Fine, Dr. Charles. I''m going to marry you in one condition also." Jane looked straight into the eyes with an equally challenging look he threw at her a while ago.


    Dr. Charles chuckled. "It''s not fair, Jane. I''m the one giving you the condition."


    "Believe me, and you won''t regret it."


    Since Jane was a lady and "ladies first " must always apply. It would be a shame on his part if he wouldn''t give in, or at least listen. He had just proposed to her and, therefore, must impress her with his soft side. "Okay, tell me what is it."


    "I''ll marry you if you won''t change your mind," she said, waiting for his reaction, but when he nodded, she continued, "but I''ll make this clear; if you change your mind and we are not getting married, you still have to rescue Hayri."


    Dr. Charles lifted his brows in a questioning look, staring at her for a couple of seconds, marveling what made her confident. He knew that marriage was never her option, but it seemed she had a sure escape to it.


    "Now, what will be the next step?"


    "Meet me at exactly nine in the morning," Jane instructed him further to meet her at a particular five-star hotel for breakfast. It was still eight, and an hour would be enough for a hurried preparation.


    Charles left as agreed. He then activated an app that would connect to Hayri''s location. What Markus didn''t know that if a member submits himself for the electronic sealing, the Velvet Fighters had an app to locate him wherever they went. He then sent a warning through the guard assigned to him.


    "Never lift a finger against Mr. Louise Hayri Dioko, or you and your family will suffer a hard consequence. Mr. Dioko underwent electronic sealing, and therefore, all of us can see him from wherever we are. The Velvet Fighters."


    Charles no longer withhold their secrets. Anyway, their days were already numbered. The bombs were already in its targeted location. The date of the clan party, which would spare the attendees from the doom, would already be the day after tomorrow. Half the population of the Madani Islands belonged to his line, so the other half that belonged to Markus would disappear from the face of the earth. Markus then had no way to escape. If he would save him from getting dissolved underneath the ocean, the court was there waiting for him to answer for the crimes his organization had committed.


    As the guard relayed the warning message to Markus, he broke into a rage. He realized that no matter what he did,  it didn''t stop his enemy from growing in number and in power. And this is all because, he thought,  the business tycoons of the country like the Diokos, were supporting them.


    Bolting into the door where Hayri was, he kicked at every object he saw and sent them flying into the air. He punched the walls, shouted his curses and threats against the organizers of the Velvet Fighters until his drained energy left him crouching at the corner, crying his frustrations out. He swore to crush Mr. Blacksmith, the leader of this organization, if ever he got the chance.


    Hayri, on a corner, watched him cautiously. Only after his outburst, did Markus remember him.


    "What now? Are you happy to see me like this? You are so lucky, man. I just received the order not to touch you because if I do, they will activate all the bombs which are secretly planted in the premises. Well, I don''t want to die yet. My mission to crush these Velvet Fighters has not started yet."


    "I''m never happy to see you living a life like this. Why not choose a peaceful life?"


    Markus stared at him and burst out into derisive laughter. "You''re dreaming. Perhaps, I will do the impossible if I will see my son and my woman again. They could not rise from the grave, Louise. When that piece of fetal cell analysis was given to me, I was hoping that Riza''s baby lived and was just hidden from me. Do you see it? I looked from him and stalked on Charles, but what did I found out? Charles adopted a baby to relieve the burden of the orphanage. I was such a fool!"


    "You mean, Riza was still pregnant when she died? You have not mentioned this."


    Hayri got lost in his thoughts. If the baby lived, it might mean two things. Either Riza did not die right away, and the baby was delivered, or she was still alive and hidden from both of them.


    "If they are still alive, will you surrender to the government?"


    Hayri giggled contemptuously. "That''s like dreaming of reaching the moon, but yes, I will. I swear on that."


    Markus continued giggling as he exited from the room, drops of tears falling from his eyes.


    ________


    Charles walked into a five-star Jane instructed him. The surroundings were unusually quiet, and only the elegant interior of the lobby greeted him. He went to the receptionist, and a beautiful lady handed him a card for the suite room Jane had reserved.  He smiled at himself as he wondered what kind of drama Jane was pulling in. Why does it have to be a room, he thought.


    As soon as he opened the door, his eyes fell on a lady who was looking down at the glass wall across the door. Her shapely back, wrapped with a figure-hugging mini dress enhanced by her silky, flowing hair, was facing him. He thought he got the wrong room. This elegant-looking lady must have heard the sound of the door opening. What would she think of him? And why didn''t she turn right away to look at him? Was she also expecting someone?


    He cleared her throat to announce his presence before he spoke up. "I''m sorry, ma''am. I think I get into the wrong room."


    Dr. Charles turned around to leave, but the voice of the woman froze him on the spot.


    "Charles."


    With eyes wide as a full moon, and heartbeats fast as a rocket, he exclaimed. "Rona?"

 Chapter 291 - Home In Molave 37

    Only Charles and Rona knew how emotional they got. When Jane popped her head in the narrow opening of the door, right after she got their consent, they were already wrapped in each other''s arms, eyes bloodshot. Rona smiled at her while brushing her tears away, but her jaw dropped when Jane opened the door wider, ushering Kristian in.


    Rona sprinted towards him, her already surging emotion peaked once again. Gathering Kristian into her arms, she cried hard until she fainted. Kristian also cried with her; his shrill, childish voice blended with hers in a heartwrenching strain.


    "What now, Dr. Charles?" Jane said with a teasing smile. She knew Charles didn''t want her to expose the condition he asked for Jane.


    "You''re right, Jane," he grinned like a long, lost-and-found puppy. He then turned to Rona and held her hand. "Let''s go home now. I can''t wait to take you and Kristian home."


    "I''m sorry, Charles, but I''m not going anywhere with you if Hayri won''t be home. He did so much for me. If not because of him, I wouldn''t have kept the hope that my son is still alive."


    "Do you mean you already know about Kristian?"


    "I even have the DNA test result that Hayri facilitated for me. He even accompanied me to the school and talked to Madame Theresa. He is a friend to me in my most dejected moments, even when we were yet in Turkey. He is there for me in my times of needs and even in expanding my businesses. I just can''t celebrate my happiness when he is out there."


    Jane''s tears were like a faucet after Rona turned on the handle. She missed everything about Hayri, his presence, his thoughtfulness, and everything that he was to her.


    "Don''t worry, ladies. I hold him safe in my hand."


    "He''s not safe until he is with Jane," Rona protested, making Charles look up at Jane.


    "So, it''s more than just friends?" Charles lifted a brow, pursing a smile.


    "More than just friends."


    Charles then turned to Kristian. "Son, get inside the room first. I, your mom, and auntie Jane are going to talk." Raised as an obedient child, he quickly stood up from Rona''s lap and went inside the bedroom.


    When the sound of the opening and closing door floated into their ears, Charles opened his laptop. Through an app he opened, he connected a video call to Markus. Markus surprisingly picked it up right away, and a panorama of the Madani Islands floated into the screen, The video clips progressed to sea views then down to the seafloor. Colorful fishes, corals, sea mammals, and stretch of white sand then rolled. Then, to their surprise, the images changed to machines, submarines, and pieces of equipment. What followed next were machines burrowing into the seafloor and dropping of black boxes. Jane and Rona held their breaths, what could those types of machinery mean?


    Charle''s voice then floated into their ears as he addressed Markus. "Markus, this is Mr. Blacksmith speaking to you. Have you seen the black boxes?"


    Vivid views of the black boxes soon floated into the screen. It had blinking red numbers indicating digital timers.


    "Bombs?" Both the ladies gasped and held their mouths, watching Markus'' reaction through the screen.


    "In my own time, those boxes will bury down the treasures of the Madani Islands into the fathomless depths of the ocean. The love of those treasures has been the cause of greed, endless desire for more wealth and power, which resulted in killings and other forms of crime. You know how you and your family tree contributed to the chaos of our once peaceful and beautiful islands."


    Markus did not say a word, but his eyes that stared back into the screen seemed to throw fire and brimstone towards them.


    "I have gathered all the Madanihanons away from the islands in the disguise of a clan party. The original plan was to exclude your family lineage, but I change my mind. Perhaps, if these treasures that corrupted their minds and made them arrogant enough to rebel against the government will vanish, they will remember to do what''s good and fair for everyone. Sadly, Markus, I can''t exempt your closest family tree, because they prompted you to rebel like this. All the exits are guarded, so all of you can no longer escape."


    Markus'' eyes darted with glints of fear as his eyes became sharp and unsteady. Before he could say any word, Charles spoke again. "Release Mr. Louise Hayri Dioko now, and I am giving you the chance to negotiate with me. A chopper will be landing close to your hideout in twenty minutes."


    Tears finally gathered in the corner of  Markus'' eyes as videos of his family played at the screen, appealing to Mr. Blacksmith to lift his revenge. A video of his wailing mother also rolled out, asking Mr. Blacksmith to release him, claiming that it was his fault why Markus became the headache of the country.


    "I''ll give you twenty minutes to decide." Charles then ended his call and turned the video call off.


    Rona sobbed once again the moment he stopped the call. "Charles, never in my dreams did I expect to see you become like this. I no longer know you."


    "Rona, I have my reasons. You know better than anyone else, how it is in our homeplace back then. They killed our grandparents, our great-great-grandparents, so they deserve it," Charles reasoned out as he tried to coax Rona to understand him.


    "Still, that doesn''t give you the right to put the law in your hands. God even forgives those whose hearts are already black with sinning. He even extends their life span, giving them chances to change. Why can''t you? We are only humans, and judgment shouldn''t be in our hands."


    "Rona-"


    "Charles, all my life, I have been praying that someday I will see you again. I close my heart to other men because I believe it in my heart that someday, we can rebuild our family. But I''m sorry. I can''t accept you like this. Killing Riza is enough, but killing another is no longer acceptable. Will Kristian and Kyle be proud of you? Will Kyle be able to forgive you someday for not giving his father a chance to live?"


    Charles sighed; he could no longer afford to lose Rona again. She meant more to him than those velvet diamonds. She meant more to him than the treasures of the Madani Islands and more precious than the lives of those evil Madanihanons.


    "If I''ll forgive Markus, will you marry me?"

 Chapter 292 - Home In Molave 38

    Hayri''s heart broke out in pity for Markus. No matter how evil a person could be, he believed that he deserves a chance to change and live. Before he climbed up the last step of the helicopter ladder, he ran back to Markus and whispered something in his ears.


    "If deep in your heart, you believe your son is alive, then live for him. God gives us an innate, fatherly instinct." Hayri didn''t have the right to disclose a secret, but that was the closest way possible to open up his mind.


    Markus stared back at him and the image of that boy whom Hayri introduced to him as his son revisited his thoughts. "You adopted him?"


    Hayri answered with a smile, leaving him a clue. When Markus chose to release him in exchange for the freedom of his family, he believed he wasn''t totally heartless. As the aircraft rose higher and higher, Hayri bowed down his head for Markus, asking God to guide him in his final decision.


    Charles, who sat on the pilot''s seat, alerted Hayri to look at the monitor before them. He then saw a large flock of people swarming at what seemed like a vast ground.


    "Who are those people?'' Hayri asked, wondering what those people were doing in that place. Protest rally?


    "They are the Madanihanons I gathered outside the Madani islands."


    Hayri nodded without saying anything. He was listening throughout the negotiation between him and Markus. He knew that by now, everyone had left the island, except Markus. He could not leave unless he succ.u.mbed to the conditions that Mr. Blacksmith set for him. And until now, Mr. Blacksmith remained the mysterious, faceless Mr. Blacksmith to everyone.


    However, he became curious when his thoughts dwelt on Markus.


    "Where is the family of Markus now?"


    "I have them sent over to where he is."


    Soon after Charles spoke out his last word, the screen changed into an ongoing conversation between Markus and his family.


    "Son, why not try appealing to Mr. Blacksmith for your life?" said his mother in between her sobs, "even if it means we have to agree to his conditions."


    Markus smirked as he glanced at his mother. It was already enough for him that he granted his family''s safety.


    "Over my dead body!"


    His father already joined in convincing him, but, as hard as a piece of steel, his pride did not waver.


    "Why have you turned like this, my son? I did not bring you up to become a rebellious child!" Markus'' mother wailed louder, seeing the immovable will of his son.


    "Don''t you want me to become a ruler of our people, mom? Someone to protect our business interests? Someone whom the whole nation will bow down and obey?"


    Her mother got speechless. Ever since he was a child, she always encouraged him to join any political campaign, mass protest, and ouster rallies. Her reason was always about protecting their people and their business legacy.


    "Son, please. This is no longer the right time to argue and blame each other."


    Markus laughed hard, allowing his tears to fall before the last ring of his laughter turned to wail. In that bitter cry, he poured out his unspoken humiliation against his family for depriving him of his happiness. For robbing off his right to express what he felt when they arranged Charles and Riza''s wedding. For not listening to his reason why he agreed to see her. For siding with Charles and pushing the crime against him.


    "Mom, Dad, I will concede if you will bring Riza and my son back to life. If not, then I, together with the wealth of these islands, will die together. There''s no way I would kill my pride. This is all that I have now."


    "What about us? Your family? We also love you, son, and we are proud of you."


    Markus'' gaze darkened, and his mourning demeanor a while ago changed into a sharp and furious glare.


    "From now on, stop telling me those words. Or else, I''ll make you forget that you have a son."


    ______


    Charles allowed the family of Markus to convince him to concede. That would mean he would also surrender to the government. That would also mean he would end up all those crimes and killing incidents he threw just so that the government would agree to the freedom he was proposing.


    Then, the appointed time came. Markus and his family gathered outside the house, waiting for the chopper to land and pick up his family. Markus no longer spoke to them, but on the eleventh hour, he fell on their necks and cried, bidding them goodbye. He would now be alone in facing his defeat. When he held the assurance of owning the whole Madani Islands, many joined his cause. Yet, in his downfall now, not a single soul offered to die with him.


    To their surprise, another chopper landed. Markus squinted to see an eight-year-old boy descending on the steps. His heartbeats raced. This was the boy whom he saw in Molave. Is Hayri here to see him before the explosion?


    To his surprise, Charles descended after him. And his eyes got even wider when he saw the woman following after him.


    "Rona?" Markus'' heart leaped with joy as he saw her old friend again, but his heart sank when Riza reappeared in his thoughts. Rona was the witness to their forbidden love in that haven of her beautiful island.


    Before he stepped out to meet her, the child ran towards him, shouting the words he longed so much to hear.


    "Daddy!"


    Markus couldn''t explain but that simple gesture awakened in him a strange and wonderful feeling. He bent down to hug the boy, his eyes were on Charles, seeking for answers. For the first time, his hatred against Charles disappeared for a moment.


    "His name is Kyle, Markus. Your son. I''m sorry for hiding him. The DNA paternity test result just came out a few days ago. I was afraid you would take your revenge on me through my son."


    At that moment, Markus felt his world stopped spinning. His eyes dilated as he took in the truth of his revelation. He stood frozen to the ground until the weight of Kyle''s body brought him back his senses. The child jumped to reach his neck, wrapping his arms around him the moment Markus'' reflexes caught him in his arms.


    "Dad, please bring me home."


    Home. Son. Family. These three words echoed in his heart and mind as he laughed and cried at the same time, hugging his son closer to himself. Everyone who watched him fell silent, silently brushing their tears away.


    For who knows how long, Markus released Kyle from him and gave him back to Charles.


    "Take him with you, Charles. Thank you for allowing me to see him before I''ll die. If this is your drama to make me concede, thank you for the efforts. It is enough to know that my instinct is right. I really felt something strange the first time I saw him. Now, I am really happy."


    Markus hugged Kyle again, then walked towards Rona who was already bawling her eyes out. He hugged her tight and said, "Please, love my son like your own."


    Markus then turned away, leaving all of them in wide shock.

 Chapter 293 - Home In Molave 39

    All of them sank in disbelief. They thought Markus would already concede. Before anyone could voice out their thoughts as they watched him getting farther and farther, Markus stopped. He turned around and called out.


    "Please, don''t let anybody know about the true identity of Kyle. My son won''t be proud of me."


    He smiled at them again while they all stared at him. Some were not able to hold back their sadness and they started crying out loud, evoking the emotions of those who acted stronger. Soon, the roaring sound of another chopper landed, muffling the sounds of their emotional outrage.


    As soon as the engine stopped, everyone got into the chopper. Dr. Nelson Madani also gave his last reminder to Charles. They only had ten minutes left before the timer stops. Charles sent Rona and Kyle back to the chopper while he ran back to Markus to make his last appeal.


    "Markus, hurry up before it''s too late. We no longer have enough time."


    "No, Charles. I''m already into this, and it''s already too late to give up. I''ll die with these obsessions in my heart. I must die a victor, not a loser."


    "Markus, for the sake of your son."


    "I''m sorry."


    Soon, all the people in the choppers looked down from the windows, shouting their appeals for Markus to concede. Some were already angry, cursing him for his defiance. And some were crying, hoping to melt his heart. Soon, a loud whistling sound of an alarm echoed from the ground, followed by an electronic voice.


    "300...299...298..." The counter indicated they only had five minutes left.


    The people''s shouts got louder, and soon a live streaming of what was happening in the Madani Island appeared in the big screens surrounding the place that hosted the Madani clan party. Charles prepared it all. His people should see how the islands would convulse and explode, shattering their greed for wealth, power, and fame away. They should know how those bombs underneath the seafloor send its mountains of fiery blazes upward and crumble down their beloved, beautiful islands.


    "297...296...295..."


    "Markus!" shouted the people who were all in their party gowns, blending with the cries of his family on the choppers.


    "294...293...292..."


    "Markus, this is my last appeal. Please come with me," urged Charles, pulling him by his arm to run with him.


    Instead of allowing Charles to pull him, he pushed Charles forward and urged him to go. Charles finally made up his decision--he must leave Markus behind. He had given him enough time, but he chose to cling to his pride. Nelson set up the timer, and he couldn''t undo it anytime they want. The distance of the bombs underneath the seafloor was too far for a remote control.


    "291...290...289..."


    In the eyes of everyone, Markus pulled out his pistol from its holster and pointed it at himself. Everyone gasped, holding their breaths for a second, too shocked to move.


    "288...287...286..." Everybody was already screaming frantically. The rotors of the choppers started to move.


    Markus then moved his fingers, slowly curving his finger towards the trigger. Before his point finger hugged the trigger, a scream from the shore pierced into his ears. He looked up and saw a woman running towards him, her hair flying vigorously behind.


    "285...284...283..."


    "Markus!" Her voice grew faint as she began to lose her breath. She was still very far away for Markus to recognize her.


    Wanting to confirm his suspicion, he ran to meet her, throwing his gun away. His heartbeats began to accelerate faster than his legs could carry him.


    "30...29...28..."


    Finally, Markus could now see her. He was right; that beautiful face in his dreams was the one calling him.


    "Riza?"


    "Markus, it''s me."


    "10...9...8..."


    Markus looked around and inclined his ear to the counter. He knew he was already too late. Yet, he was glad he resisted. He pulled Riza close to himself and hugged her tight, dropping themselves the next moment to the ground. What kind of fate did he have? He may have finally met her again, but only to die together. However, it was still better than dying without seeing each other again.


    Both the online viewers and the ones on the chopper already got crazy, closing their eyes and covering their ears with their hands for the final, frantic scream.


    "&...6...5..."


    "Markus, look up!" Charles'' voice through a speaker jolted him back to his senses. He glanced up and saw the rescue ladder descending towards them.


    Markus stood up abruptly, circling one arm around Riza''s waist while his other hand grabbed for the handle. Before the timer stopped and the ground began to shake, the ladder propelled Markus and Riza to safety.


    The moment the choppers landed on their destined place, they gathered around on a ground, impatient to know how Riza survived. Riza waited until everyone had descended from the aircraft, saving herself from having to repeat her storytelling. Charles asked someone to take Kyle away for a moment, afraid to hurt his tender feelings. Riza''s reappearance might include setups that only a.d.u.l.ts should hear.


    "Everyone got angry at me, and no one dared to take a glimpse of my sinful, dying body." Riza''s voice started to crack. "Mama brought me to the hospital, pretended that the doctors were only able to save the baby. She then let me go and set me free, asking me to go to a faraway country and forget everyone. To make sure I''ll live a good life, she sent me some of the velvet diamonds that Charles gave as dowry. If I showed up, I would still die; you all know the laws of our land."


    "I guess I am almost late to know about everything through a cousin. I came here by yacht," Riza let out a deep sigh and smiled, running her eyes to each one of them.


    Everyone kept silent, feeling the awkwardness Charles, Rona, and Markus must have suffered at the moment. Out of nowhere, beyond everyone''s expectation, Riza''s mother raised her voice into a bitter cry.

 Chapter 294 - Home In Molave 40

    "Mom, I still have to hug you yet, let me finish first," Riza teased as she wrapped her in her arms, thinking that her sudden outburst must be related to her mixed emotion of loneliness due to her loss, and the immense joy for her return. She hugged her tight, allowing her to ventilate her worries, sadness, and miseries out until her sobs ebbed down.


    When she left, her mother must have been sleepless for years in thinking where she had gone. Losing her was perhaps, her tale of early death, but setting her free was far better than having her inside the four walls of the Madani Jail.


    "I''m sorry, dear. If anyone here deserves to die, it is me."


    Riza''s father frowned, scolding her. "What nonsense are you talking about?" It was such a sensitive subject that no one should unnecessarily bring up. Markus was on the line, and talking about it was like adding some grains of salt to an already festering wound.


    "I''m sorry, but what I am saying is true. I deserve to die because all these times, I hide the sin I committed against you."


    Everyone around threw their eyes in her direction, stunned. Riza''s father glared at her, bracing himself for whatever bomb she was about to hurl. Markus'' immediate family also stared at her, astounded by her sudden declaration. Even from the very start, they were the close-knitted families. And because of this closeness, they were unable to notice earlier the secret relationship between Markus and Riza. No matter how humiliated Markus was, it didn''t sever the ties they had firmly established, and even at this trying moment, they were all there for Markus.


    "We are here to listen, mom. Go ahead." Riza assured her, and her voice silenced them all.


    "If there is something I hate about our culture, it''s the arranged marriages," she began, her vision started to blur again. "Though I consented to my marriage, it didn''t mean it was easy. It broke my heart. And the night before our wedding, I sneaked out and had a moment with Charles'' uncle."


    Everyone gasped and froze again to another astounding revelation, shaking their hearts in fear for what may come next.  Any act of betrayal between a married couple deserves capital punishment if the aggrieved push the matter into the court. All the men stood up and started to guard Riza''s mother, expecting an outrage from her father.


    "Do you mean Riza is not my daughter?" Riza''s father snarled, his eyes bulging out in anger.


    "She''s not," her mother confessed, starting to wail again.


    "How could you do this to me? All this time that I am blind to all of your lies, you''re making me look like a fool," he hurled a finger against her, his eyes wet with unshed tears of humiliation.


    "Come on, dear husband, it looks like you''re the only victim here. Do you think I have no idea that you were also sneaking out?" Her mirthless laughed then followed, challenging him to come out in the open.


    Riza''s father got stunned and speechless for a while, allowing his wife to retaliate.


    "But she did not get pregnant-"


    "And it doesn''t mean you did not have s.e.x with her-"


    Markus''s father butted in, stopping their argument. It was something personal that only the two of them should talk about.


    "It would be best if you settle your differences later. Anyway, it is already too late to discuss some issues of the past. We have more important matters to discuss."


    Ignoring now her parent''s argument, Riza smiled happily as she looked at Markus. "It only means we''re not cousins, and that my marriage to Charles is null and void from the beginning."


    Charles felt awkward. Even if he did not love her, he treated her with the utmost respect and that he accepted her as his wife. What he could not accept was the betrayal within the bond of marriage. To everyone''s surprise, Riza was straightforward and acted as if she didn''t care about what others may say.


    "Charles, let''s do the annulment process as soon as possible. As much as I want to marry Markus, I also know that you are dying to be with Rona. I even got surprised when I learned that you two did not get married right after I died." Charles stiffened, but Riza broke into a wide grin.


    Rona responded with only a weak smile. It was not the right time yet to tell her story to them. She stole a glance at Markus, and everyone followed her eyes. He seemed to be out of his mood. Perhaps, he was really not happy with his sudden decision to concede. Before anyone else could dare to ask, Riza stepped ahead of them again.


    "Markus, are you not happy?" Riza asked, worrying about his blunt responses from the start.


    Markus reached out for her hand, not caring about the presence of everyone around. "I''m afraid I can''t still be with you."


    "Why? Aren''t you happy for our freedom now? Do you have someone else already?" came the many questions from Riza''s mouth, her hands to sweat out.


    "There''s the court waiting for me. I have to answer for the sins I committed against the government."


    Markus held his breath, too afraid already of another failure. However, her nonchalant reply warmed his heart.


    "I don''t mind if our wedding will be in jail."


    Everyone laughed, though their hearts ached for them. However, Markus had to pay the price.


    ________


    Charles climbed up the chopper together with Rona and the kids. They were going to the Madani Islands to see how huge was the damage the bomb explosion did to their homeplace. Kristian was very excited; it was his first time to fly.


    "Kristian, look there!" Kyle squealed, pointing his finger at the sprawling islands below.


    "Kyle, look also there!" he shouted back, pointing at the dolphins leaping out of the water.


    Charles and Rona laughed as they watched them, both happy that the kids got along well. Markus decided to let Kyle stay with Charles and Rona until the child''s mind would be ready to accept them as his real parents.


    As they hovered above the Madani Islands, Charles'' eyes got wide. Where he thought that his homeland crumbled into shreds and buried underneath the fathomless depths, the islands still sprawled out in its untainted beauty from the aerial view.


    "Nelson! What happened to the bombs? It did not explode?" Though his voice was a bit louder than a whisper, he was still able to stress it out enough for Nelson to know his absolute flabbergast.


    "It did. Look at the news. It recorded the time, the location, and the 8.5 magnitude."


    "You must be kidding! The islands are still intact."


    "Charles, we are only humans. What our minds and bodies can achieve are still specks against what God can do. And the extent of His power is beyond our human control. The islands are among His creations, and it lies in His will if He allows harm and destruction to any of His dominion."

 Chapter 295 - Home In Molave 41

    The news of the strong earthquake around the Madani Island shook the nation. With its epicenter at the central Madani Island, which was known to sit atop a huge faultline, an 8.5 magnitude earthquake could have resulted in a massive destruction or possible collapse of the islands. To everyone''s amazement, the entire damages could not equate to the earthquake''s intensity. Houses crumbled, trees hewn down, establishments collapsed, but these were not the result Charles and Nelson expected.


    Dr. Charles and Dr. Nelson wanted the whole Mandani Islands to sink into the unknown and fathomless depths of the ocean. They aimed to destroy the sources of their evil deeds and corruption. His people would not go hungry anyway if ever their wishes happened. All of them had established business ventures across the globe and had become the shareholders of some leading business firms in the country. These islands had made all of them wealthy. Wealth was good, but the love of more riches and fame that prompted some of them to become evil, arrogant, and superior ruined the essence of true wealth.


    Videos about the planted bombs inside the fault line scattered through the internet. It wouldn''t take a long explanation to make anyone believe that it caused the recent violent earthquake. To the whole nation''s further surprise, another video scattered, featuring the atomic and nuclear bombs beneath the thick forest of Molave mountains. Since all the bombing incidences pointed to the Ebony fighters, the whole nation also believed that this organization was the inventor.


    The knowledge about these bombs being in the country caused a nationwide scare. If used for terrorism, these inventions could dissolve a whole country. The people were now calling for Markus to surrender, and the government itself made appointments to negotiate peace talks with him and his organization. Some people were angry, sending their threats to kill him wherever he was. No amount of denial from Markus''s side could convince the people, even if he admitted the recent bombing incidents. How could he accept the accusation when he, himself, was curious to know who was behind these inventions.


    When the government set a final ultimatum, Mr. Blacksmith uploaded another video, claiming that the invention was his. The government set an appointment to talk to him, but he refused. However, he challenged the government and set his own conditions through an open letter.


    Dear Mr. President,


    I, Mr. Blacksmith, the creator of these deadly weapons and explosives, am willing to surrender these inventions to the government if my conditions are granted. Along with these are also gadgets and apparatus which could help in solving crimes faster. The said conditions are enumerated below:


    1. The Ebony Fighters must be dissolved, including its requests and proposals to the government to make them an independent state.


    2. All the members of the Ebony fighters must submit to the rules and laws of the nation as a whole.


    3. The government of the Madani Islands must denounce their old, unhealthy practices such as arranged marriages, the death penalty, and the monopoly systems.


    2. Mr. Markus Madani must be spared from whatsoever penalties or punishments such as death, imprisonment, or any forms of maltreatment. He should be allowed to leave the country and let him and his family start and live peaceful lives.


    If these conditions find favor in your eyes, let me know. I''ll give my instructions on how to pull these out.


    Respectfully yours,


    The Faceless Blacksmith


    As expected, the government declined the wishes of the sender of this open letter. In a unanimous decision, they viewed Mr. Blacksmith as the next terrorist. However, the fear of the people resulted in their wrath against them. Protest rallies, ouster movements, and open rebellion turned the whole country into a total chaos in such a short time. Their cry was for the government to give in to the wishes of Mr. Blacksmith, or else their fury would turn the country into irreversible bloody fields.


    _______


    Jane''s laughter echoed against the hills of Molave as she glanced at Hayri, running after her. She had already mastered the skill of running a horse--may it be a trot, a canter or a gallop--Hayri had taught her lovingly and patiently. This afternoon, she agreed to a one-way race with him. Whoever wins the competition could make a wish, and the loser should grant it, whether one likes it or not.


    "If I win, I would join the Molave horseriding competition. You should allow me to do it."


    "No problem."


    What''s yours?" Jane laughed, confident that she would win. Not that she had the skill, but Hayri would surely give way for her. She really wanted to experience the thrill of joining a real race.


    Throughout the run, she led on; Hayri following behind. Hers was the victory; she knew it. Hayri was such a dedicated coach, a horseriding pro she never thought he would. All of a sudden, her thoughts drifted to the moment she almost lost him in the hands of Markus. Glad, though, that things turned in their favor.


    After the government had finally listened to the people''s cry, peace and harmony had once again dominated the whole nation. Markus and Riza got married and started their new lives in a foreign country. Charles focused again on being a jeweler and lived with Rona in Turkey.


    A smile broke out in her face as her thoughts also went to Hayri''s dad and Miss Rose Perez. He asked her, one time, to be her personal secretary''s proxy. The latter was on her maternity leave and, therefore, could not go with him in Turkey to visit the shipyard. To everyone''s surprise, they returned after six months, announcing their soon coming wedding. Cherry was too happy for them, as she was seriously dating Richard. Perhaps, after her mom''s wedding, she would announce their wedding plans.


    As for Ajie and Allie, business magazines and tabloids had always featured them as the most outstanding couple in the business world. Why not? With their talents and skills combined, they maintained the reputation of being the builders and designers of the world''s most luxurious cruise sh.i.p.s and yachts. She was sure that in the future, their children would follow their steps.


    What about her and Hayri? Well, they promised themselves to create the most beautiful and unforgettable relationship. Every weekend, they engaged in adventures--nature trekking, spelunking, mountain climbing, and many others. If the weather would not go well with their plans, they went out for romantic dinners. She had never been loved and cared before. Hayri was such a sweet lover, showering her with kinds of stuff that women love.


    Lost in her thoughts, she didn''t realize she lost her pace. Just when she was a few meters behind the finish line, Hayri suddenly dashed into the victory lane.


    She pouted. She thought Hayri would let her win and give in to her wishes. Yet, she knew it was her fault; she lost her focus.


    "Okay, what''s your wish?" she asked, resigning to her failure. Tears were already gathering in the corners of her eyes. She got so used to his pampering-- his doting love for her. Yet, now, he humiliated her.


    Hayri chuckled as he saw the silent messages in her eyes. He cupped her face and sealed her lips in a most passionate kiss.


    "When we make a wish, our mind is half-prepared for something we might not have. What we have agreed is to grant what we want."


    "Alright, tell me now," she conceded, still gasping from his fiery kiss.


    "Be my bride tonight."


    Jane gasped, staring into his eyes in disbelief. "Tonight? But I dream of wearing a white wedding gown!"


    "Of course, how can I forget that? Charles  and Rona even have it embellished with their velvet diamonds!"


    "What?"


    "And Adrian and Allie schedule the maiden voyage of their new masterpiece for our honeymoon tomorrow."


    The End