《Reincarnated as a Deadbeat Dad》


 RDD ZERO

    [Note: This is my first time writing a 1st person perspective in a long time, and I''m pretty excited about it. Let''s see what I can do.]


    Reincarnated as a deadbeat dad: Let''s start with small business


    Chapter Zero


    *Broom broom


    You didn''t hear that wrong, that''s my body making noise. I''m running down the street, making my way to my destination.


    I''m known as the gate to the other worlds. The Isekai maker. I am Truck-Kun, the almighty truck that will smash through your head and send you to another world.


    I had contracts with gods and goddesses to send certain people to another world. Some of them turned out to be heroes, while others turned out to be edgy anti-heroes.


    Not my problem, I just do my job and I''m pretty good at it.


    Right now I''m on the dirty and smoky soil of the Philippines, where I have to beat someone to a pulp.


    Of course, I''m in my Isuzu form. My driver is casually driving down the road, not knowing that I''m the one in control. I''m just waiting for the right time to act.


    Let''s see, as soon as I turn right, I''ll find my target and kill him.


    Cars hovered around me. I saw an old truck belching black smoke. Mmm, nice dump truck. I want to hit that rear if I have time...


    Unfortunately, my job won''t let me. I''m kind of busy, to be honest.


    As my driver whistled away, I turned right and reached the spot where I would kill my target.


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    He was coming out of the 7/11 store with Gatorade Blue in his hand. I prefer Gatorade Orange, by the way.


    My target looks young, in his early twenties. He is probably a college student because he is wearing a student uniform.


    He has a handsome face. Unfortunately, I will smash his whole body so that his parents will never recognize him. He will be nothing but a pile of flesh when I''m done, hehe.


    Without hesitation, I stepped on the gas pedal. My wheels rolled fast.


    *Broom broom!!


    "Huh? W-what''s going on?"


    My driver panicked. It sucks to be my driver, but this time he will probably lose his job. If he''s not lucky, he might go to jail.


    "M- My brake! It''s not working!!"


    He shouted and tried to step on the break, but it was useless, as if I would listen.


    "Everybody!! Get out of the way!!"


    *Beep! Beep!


    The driver honked the horn when he saw that he was about to hit a structure.


    People heard the horn and immediately ran to avoid me.


    However, it seems that my target is wearing earphones and can''t hear them. Look at that~


    "Hey! Get out, there''s a truck!"


    "Oh, my God!!"


    People yelled at my target, but he was nonchalantly drinking. When he turned around, his eyes widened as he realized that a big truck was about to run him over.


    "Shit."


    I thought I heard him curse.


    That''s right, boy, you are indeed in deep shit. Well, I hope you have a fulfilling life in another world. I don''t know why the gods and goddesses want me to kill you. But considering that they are interested in you, they must have a plan.


    *Bang!


    A loud crash. I felt his body crushed by the force as I hit at him.


    My front was dented as I hit the wall. I lost my speed and came to a complete stop.


    Everyone was stunned for a second. But they remembered that someone had been hit by the truck.


    "S- Someone call an ambulance!"


    "Help!"


    Ambulance? Help? Bruh, he is already dead. I''m good at my job and I''ve never missed.


    My target is already gone, he is probably meeting a god or goddess right now.


    The citizens turned pale, but their minds reacted quickly. They approached me and the remaining flesh.


    As for the driver, he came out of the truck groggy. His face was bleeding and he was vomiting. I don''t know if he''s sick from the crash or from taking an innocent life.


    Oops, looks like my time here is up. I have to move on to my next destination.


    Let''s see... Oh! I guess I have to go back to Japan now. I have three targets this time!


    A fat guy and a high school couple.


    Hehe, let''s see their reactions before I smash their bodies to pieces.


    All right, Truck-kun out.

 RDD 1

    Chapter One


    "Shit--!"


    I screamed at the top of my lungs as I fell to the ground. I gasped for air after my face hit the ground.


    "W-where am I?"


    Everything happened so fast that I feel like I''m having a heart attack. I feel sick. My heart was beating so fast, and I swear I think I''m going to die...


    Or maybe I have died.


    "Ugh!"


    My head hurt, I felt like my skull was crushed in that last second.


    "Did I die?"


    I muttered as I looked around.


    The last scene that came to my mind was when a huge truck flashed in front of me and I lost control of everything. I just remembered my brain splattering the windshield... Funny how I remember that even though my brain was crushed.


    Anyway,


    "What the hell is going on?"


    It was a place where I could see countless stars shimmering everywhere. I feel like I''m in the galaxy, but it''s a mystery how I can move and breathe outside the atmosphere. Well, I''m already dead, so I don''t need to breathe anymore...


    I was confused, so confused about everything. I had just come out of the store and was drinking a Gatorade Blue. I was listening to music when I realized that Death was already there to greet me in the underworld.


    "So... this is the underworld? Hell? Purgatory or something?"


    A place you go after you die. In my opinion, I will never go to heaven because I wasn''t a good or bad person, I''m a mediocre simple guy. But the catch is, I never went to church for a whole year... So I will probably go to hell or something.


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    "Shit!"


    Of course I''m angry and disappointed. It''s obvious that I have a lot of things I regret and want to do. I still have my parents on Earth, and I think they''re probably devastated when they find out I''m dead.


    "Kuck!"


    My legs went weak and I stumbled down. My chest hurt and I found it hard to breathe.


    The fact that I will never see my family shocked me the most. I''m just a young man who wants to finish college and help his parents.


    "What am I going to do now?"


    Knowing that I''m dead, my head is in shambles and I don''t know what to think or do.


    I found it meaningless. My life was gone just like that and I realized how fragile my existence was.


    It was sad that my tears fell by themselves.


    "Ugh..."


    I sobbed and wiped away my tears. It was obvious that I would cry after knowing that I''m dead and I''ll never see my parents again.


    My chest hurts. God damn it!


    "Are you done crying?"


    Suddenly I heard a voice from behind me.


    I immediately turned around and realized that someone was watching my whole dramatic reaction...


    "Can you please give me a second, I want to cry and scream."


    "No, we only have a few minutes and I have more people to meet--"


    "Aaahhhh---! GODDAMNIT! IF I KNEW I WAS GOING TO DIE, I SHOULD HAVE FONDLED SOME TITS! GOD DAMN IT!"


    I''m dead anyway, so I might as well get that frustration off my chest. And for the record, I''m not a virgin. I have had three relationships in 20 years of life and I can say that I have a nice amount of rizz in my veins.


    Anyway, if I know I''m going to die, I shouldn''t have broken up with my ex...


    "...Sigh."


    I took a deep breath and looked at the stranger who was looking at me with a stunned expression.


    "Sorry, what did you say again?"


    I laughed, trying to wipe away the awkwardness.


    "... Ahem, greetings young man. You''re here because fate has brought you here. You may call me Goddess."


    The person before me was definitely a woman. But I couldn''t see her face because there was a blurry light that blocked my vision whenever I looked at her face. As if it was not meant for me to see her face.


    "What?"


    It was the normal thing to ask in that situation.


    What? What the hell is going on?


    "Are you Satan or something? But the last I heard, Satan is not a woman. Oh, is that one of those songs about God being a woman and the devil being a woman? Is that it? I''m right, right?"


    "No. I''m not Satan and I''ve never heard the songs you''re talking about. I don''t like Ariana Grande."


    "But she''s a nice singer."


    "I prefer K-pop."


    "Wow, I never knew that a goddess actually listens to secular songs."


    A shocker.


    "I like BlackPink, but, ahem! Anyway, let''s cut to the chase. Keith Castillo, the Gods and Goddesses brought you here.


    A nice explanation. Enough for my brain to understand.


    The gods and goddesses want me. This means something.


    "...Wait, I think I know where this is going."


    I touched my chin. My eyes were still red from crying earlier. Even my heart was pounding when I realized that I''m dead. However, after reading many light novels, I already have an idea of what is going on in the back of my brain.


    "So you want me to kill a demon lord in a fantasy world?"


    "What? No, that''s not what we want from you."


    The goddess shook her head, a little irritated as she watched my reaction.


    "Man, this is why weebs are hard to talk to, they always think they are the MC. This guy cries early, but now he was acting like he was a protagonist."


    Ugh! It hurts to hear this from a goddess.


    "You are here because the gods and goddesses want you dead."


    "..."


    I don''t know how to respond, so I just remain silent with a stunned expression on my face.


    "You didn''t hear it wrong. They want you dead."


    "Um, that''s because they want me to save a planet, right? Like, I''ll be reincarnated on a planet where magic or cultivation is common to start a heroic life. I think that''s what you mean."


    "Again, this is why I don''t want to talk to a weeb."


    Ugh!


    "Our time is precious, so I will explain it to you as quickly and clearly as possible - one of your descendants will destroy the Earth, so we decided to prevent that by killing you."

 RDD 2

    Chapter 2


    There are unexpected things that can happen to a man. I can say that I''m facing one of them. I was so shocked that my eyeballs almost fell out.


    "They want me dead? My descendant caused the destruction of a world?"


    I have enough ideas to understand what the goddess said, but it was still unbelievable.


    How could a simple guy like me, who didn''t have a high IQ, have a descendant who would destroy the world?


    "That''s right. In fact, your great-great-great-great-granddaughter started World War 4."


    "And she''s a woman? She has guts, I can tell. W-wait, what do you mean by World War 4? Does that mean World War 3 happened? Who started it? Or which country started it?"


    "No spoilers."


    She put her index finger to her lips as she smiled teasingly.


    "..."


    This goddess, she really knows how to tease.


    "The hell?"


    I don''t know, but I''m pretty pissed. I just realized that my death was predetermined and planned by these celestial beings. I have enough reason to be angry and lash out at them. It was good that I still had my sanity.


    My eyes traveled around the place. This galaxy-like place represents the truth that Earth is not the center of the universe. We are nothing but dust in the wind.


    "You don''t want me to know what happened in World War 3, but you just said that my descendant started World War 4. That''s kind of unfair, you know."


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    "No spoilers."


    "Okay, fine. I guess you''re not going to give me any more information about my descendant''s crime, are you?"


    "Actually, it''s top secret and I can only tell you this. We have stopped the end of the world by ensuring that your descendant will never be born. Your planet was never meant to end at this time and we maintain the order of the universe."


    The Goddess'' voice was soft and soothing. But in this atmosphere, it was a bit eerie.


    "But why me? Why do you have to kill me, why didn''t you kill my great-great-grandson instead? Why me specifically?"


    "About that, we just decided it with the lottery box and we drew your name. You are the unlucky one.


    You don''t have to say it like that. It''s painful to know that my life was just gone because these beings pulled my name.


    I sat down. Right now I don''t know what to think. It was depressing to be honest.


    ''What am I going to do now?''


    "I can''t go back to Earth? I can''t see my family?"


    "That''s right. You''re dead."


    She answered casually. Maybe she has met many dead people and is already used to it.


    "You don''t want me to reincarnate into a fantasy world to kill a demon lord?"


    "That was never our intention. Besides, people like you are problematic and hard to control. You will make things worse if you reincarnate into a fantasy world. Most of you want to become an emperor who will impregnate any woman as long as she''s beautiful. You are a destructive bunch of dogs."


    A pathetic laugh escaped my mouth. It was better if I never knew that my death was planned by the gods and goddesses, at least my heart is at peace with that.


    "So what now?"


    I stared at the unknown goddess before me.


    Am I going to die like this? This is how my life would end...


    "Since you''re killed by us, although your fate was not meant to end, we have decided to give you another life instead."


    I fucking knew it! You guys are just messing with me! Yay!


    Of course, I will be happy to know that my life will not end now. It''s enough to make me jump out of my gloom.


    "Well, where am I supposed to go? I guess it''s not a fantasy world, but maybe sci-fi? How about cultivation martial arts?"


    "Alternate universe, we will send you to an alternate universe that is an exact copy of your planet."


    "Okay, I''m okay with that."


    I''m not picky. As if I have a choice, these people are celestial beings who can end my life. I''m already satisfied that I can live again.


    ''Mom. Dad. I''m sorry if I died before I could keep my promise.:


    ''I wish you all the best and I hope you will move on after my death. I don''t want to see you sad. ''


    Oh, and please make sure the truck driver rots in jail. I know that big trucks can have faulty brakes, but I''m still angry that he killed me, even if it was an accident.


    "I have another person to meet, so I must end our conversation here. I wish you the best in your next life."


    Huh? Did I see it right? I think the goddess is smiling. It''s strange because I can''t even recognize her face.


    "I have nothing to say. You can take me there."


    "As you wish."


    The goddess nods.  Immediately my vision went black and I fell into another darkness.


    Unlike before, when I felt like my body was being torn to pieces, this time I felt like I was drowning.


    .........


    ......


    ...


    It was strange yet familiar. I felt as if my existence was slowly being mixed up with another. My memories were jumbled and I could not tell the real from the fake.


    A scene about a woman... My heart aches when I think of her.


    Cute little hands clasping my finger, but why do I feel a heavy heart?


    A disappointed face of my father? I feel strange seeing a man I never remembered.


    I fell into someone else''s existence while doing my best to breathe air. My hands were outstretched as I kicked my feet with all my strength.


    Then suddenly I saw another bright light engulf me.


    I greeted the world with my wet face, crying and gasping like a newborn baby.

 RDD 3

    Chapter Three


    I feel as if another soul has mixed with me. Memories that I couldn''t remember penetrated my brain. My brain was fried to the limit.


    "Guhah--! Aahhh--!"


    I gasped as I kicked up my feet. I immediately lifted my upper body and took a deep breath even though some of the water entered my esophagus, I was mad for air right now.


    "Kahak--!"


    I could not control my throat and coughed violently. I coughed water after water as I escaped the bathtub that was drowning me.


    My tired arms did their best to pull me out of the tub. I was gasping for breath and weakly rested my body on the cold bathroom floor.


    My head hurt, no, every part of me hurt.


    "Ugh..."


    It took me half an hour to move and I stood up painfully.


    Suddenly a strange thing caught my eye.


    "Why is there a toaster in the bathtub?"


    I asked myself, although I felt groggy and weak.


    Then I remembered.


    "Ah, I was the one who put it there..."


    Strange that I know this thing even though this is my first time in this place.


    "Ugh! Damn it! Why do you have to keep doing that? My head hurts, okay!"


    A flash of memory hit me and I almost stumbled. I clutched my head tightly as I gritted my teeth. I pushed through the pain as best I could.


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    "Guh..."


    I moaned like a madman.


    ''I swear, this whole day is nothing but pain!''


    I was hit by a truck!


    I was in pain!


    I was reincarnated!


    Yet, I was still in pain!


    What the hell bruh!?


    "Haahhh haahhh..."


    After the pain subsided, my vision improved and I scanned the whole place.


    Just as I expected, I was in an old bathroom with stains that were impossible to clean. How did I know this? Because I tried to clean it when my family first rented this place.


    It was bizarre how I knew this, but I already have an idea. It''s probably because of this body.


    The original owner of this body. I have his memories and feelings. If I''m not mistaken, our two souls probably merged into one. However, I was the one who controlled the fusion, because the original owner had already died when the fusion process took place.


    In a way, I''m still me. The guy who was killed by the truck and met a goddess. I''m still Keith Castillo.


    "If I''m not mistaken, the original owner probably killed himself... We have the same name as well, huh."


    I looked at the toaster still floating in the bathtub, smoke coming from it. I noticed that there was an extension cord on the floor, but the toaster was unplugged, at least.


    "The toaster must have been unplugged when I kicked the tub..."


    It was lucky that I escaped another death.


    "Okay, Keith... Let''s take it slow and process it steadily."


    First, the original owner killed himself because of depression, so he used the most painful way to die.


    Second, the Goddess brought me here. I became the owner of this body, which I''m a little happy about because at least I know I''m a man because of the thing dangling between my legs.


    The third and most important thing is that I''m going to live a new life and I don''t know where to start. That''s the best I could come up with right now.


    I sighed and soothed my aching body. Maybe it was because the body was in pain. After all, it had been electrocuted.


    "Stupid..."


    I said to myself. Why do I have to kill myself like this? I think drinking cyanide or falling from a high building is much better. Although I''ve never experienced them, so I''m not sure.


    As for being run over by a truck... No, not great at all. Probably the worst experience of my life.


    Time has passed, but to be honest I''m still in a state of shock. A lot of things happened and I can''t take it all in one day.


    ''I want to go to sleep.''


    I am so exhausted that I want to lie down and close my eyes.


    My steps were a little unbalanced as I reached the extension cord and folded it. Luckily, this extension cord was not that wet.


    As for the toaster... I have to throw it, or it will revive my memories of this very moment.


    Turning around, I noticed that there was an old, dirty mirror on the wall. I instinctively turned to the mirror to see my appearance.


    My curiosity was immediately satisfied when I confirmed something.


    "Good, it resembles my face.


    The person in the mirror had black hair and was quite handsome. However, it was obvious that he was haggard and tired just by looking at the dark bags under his eyes. The stubble on his chin was growing unevenly. In addition, he had belly fat and it looked like he didn''t exercise much.


    To be honest, I thought he looked ugly and unkempt. Like, when was the last time you shaved, bruh?


    I shook my head. Anyway, I need time to deal with everything. It was hard to accept this new life. Just like the original owner, I''m depressed right now.


    I fixed the extension cord and threw the toaster away, I''ll find an excuse to tell my wife later.


    "Wife? Huh? Strange, I never know that I will be married just like that. But first, I want to get a good night''s sleep."


    After getting dressed, I immediately jumped on the bed and lay face down. All I can say is that this bed is quite flat and hard. Looks like I need to find a way to buy a fluffy bed for me and my wife.


    My eyes closed and I snore loudly. There are many things I have to think about, I have to accept the truth that I will never return. But I''m exhausted and need to rest first.


    -- Snore snore snore...

 RDD 4

    Chapter Four


    December 18th, 1999</a>


    A woman just finished her part-time job as a dishwasher and heard a scream from outside.


    "Uwaahh uwaahh, Mama!"


    "Hush~ hush~ Mama''s here, my sweet little princess. Who''s my little princess, huh?"


    The woman cuddled her baby girl who had just woken up from sleep. The child was crying because she could not see her mother when she woke up.


    Penelope carried the child and did her best to soothe her.


    "Abububu~"


    She made funny faces to make her child laugh.


    "Hehe, Mama!"


    The little girl giggled and touched her mother''s face. Penelope''s heart melted when she saw her child smiling.


    Since no one would take care of her child today, she decided to take her to her part-time job in a high school cafeteria.


    She didn''t know when her husband would return. Lately, her husband was depressed and drowning himself in alcohol almost every day. They had argued two days ago and their relationship was a bit sensitive at the moment.


    Fortunately, her manager was a compassionate woman and let the child stay. Seeing an adorable child made the workers relieve the tension of this tiring job. The child slept most of the time, so she did not disturb them. Also, Penelope was able to soothe her child quickly.


    "Let''s go see your brother after this, okay? Let''s buy some cake, too."


    She smiled and the child squealed happily.


    "Bwother! Cake!"


    She seemed excited to see her brother and eat cake.


    The baby girl''s name was Sophia Castillo. She was a 20-month-old baby, and she could talk, but her pronunciation was babbling.


    "Fufu, my sweet angel."


    Penelope was reluctant to leave her little girl alone in the house, so she brought her here.


    "Let''s see if your father is in the house when we get back."


    Penelope spoke with her manager and left the cafeteria. Her job was done and she was free to go.


    It was only a twenty-minute walk to the kindergarten. Sophia, in her mother''s arms, watched the scene with joy. It was exciting for a little child like her to see the outside world.


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    Mother Penelope bought four slices of cake. Baby Sophia babbled happily as she looked at the pastries on display in the store.


    "Let''s eat when we get home, okay, baby girl?"


    "Yes, Mama!"


    By the time Penelope reached the nursery, adorable children were already leaving the place. Penelope saw her little son standing there waiting for her.


    The boy had black hair and dark blue eyes, he looked handsome. However, his cold gaze could frighten someone. He was used to being alone and preferred to keep quiet.


    Penelope smiled when she saw her son and called him.


    "Roman."


    The child turned to see his mother. He pursed his lips and nodded.


    "Hm."


    "How''s school?"


    "Fine."


    Penelope chuckled. She was already used to her son''s one-word answer. If this were not her son, she might think he was mute.


    "Bwother!"


    "Hello, Sophia."


    Sophia reached out her sweet arms to grab her brother, but she could not reach him. So Roman touched her hand instead and the little girl giggled.


    "Let''s go, I have cake for us to eat."


    "Cake!"


    "Hm."


    The family of three left the kindergarten. Sophia babbled as she looked at the beautiful Christmas decorations.


    Unfortunately, it was still 4:30 p.m. and the Christmas lights were not turned on; little Sophia would have to see them next time.


    They didn''t take a break because it was December and it would be cold once the sun went down.


    "Honey? Are you here?"


    When they reached the old apartment, Penelope noticed her husband''s shoes on the floor. She raised her voice and called his name, but no one answered.


    "Mom, cake~"


    "Okay, let''s feed you first."


    She went into the kitchen and set some plates.


    "Strange... Why do I feel like something is missing?"


    There was something wrong as she looked at the kitchen utensils. But she decided to let it go and check on her husband first.


    "Roman, can you please feed your sister?"


    "Yes."


    "Thank you, sweetheart."


    She went into their room and found her husband sound asleep.


    She sighed and approached him.


    "Honey, we have cake, would you like to eat some?"


    She asked gently. They had quarreled the last time and she wanted to reconcile with him through food. Yes, she was seducing him with his stomach.


    "Honey?"


    But she noticed that her husband was burning when she touched his forehead. She became worried when she noticed that he had a fever.


    "Hmmm..."


    The man groaned and opened his eyes faintly. He was confused at first, as if he saw a stranger. But his blurred vision quickly returned to normal.


    "Honey, are you okay? Do you want to see a doctor?"


    "..."


    The man was just silent.


    "Okay, I''ll give you some cold medicine first. Just stay awake for a while, okay?"


    "No."


    She tried to get up, but her husband grabbed her arm and pulled her to the bed.


    "H- Honey?"


    Penelope was shocked. Her husband was not acting as usual, he was not the type to act like a rouge, even if he drank a lot of alcohol. Maybe his fever was affecting his mind.


    "I have to get up, honey."


    "Sorry..."


    Penelope stiffened as she realized her husband was hugging her and pulling her closer.


    His apology was clear, even though he was sick.


    Penelope remained silent as her husband began to mumble. Suddenly she realized that her eyes were a little hot and blurry.


    Their life was not easy and they both tried their best.


    "From now on, I will work hard to keep you happy and healthy."


    ".. Yes."


    She nodded as she wiped away her tears. God, she was getting emotional listening to a sick man.


    A few minutes later she heard him snoring. She turned around to see her husband sleeping peacefully as if he had found the answer to life.


    "I am sorry too, I know you are doing your best for us. But please stop drinking, you''re a big spender when you''re drunk."


    She sighed and slipped out of his embrace. She returned to the kitchen and saw that her children had already finished eating. Roman helped his younger sister burp.


    "Is Dad okay?"


    "Yes... I think he''s fine."


    She smiled and stroked her son''s hair.

 RDD 5

    Chapter Five


    I had a dream.


    A dream in which a beautiful woman touched my forehead. I felt a strong current running through my veins.


    It was a blurry dream.


    I have mixed feelings about her. I love her, I loathe her, I want her to be happy, I want to leave her... Each emotion was strong and I didn''t know which one to choose.


    But in the end, my weak arms pulled her into my embrace and I hugged her.


    I love this woman. I want to make her happy. I want to give her everything. Just like I promised when I first met her. Perhaps I was strongly influenced by the original owner, but one thing was clear. These feelings were mine.


    "I love you."


    "I love you too."


    I smiled and fell asleep again. But this time my choice was clear.


    I, Keith Castillo, was going to do my best for this family.


    .........


    ......


    ...


    I groaned as I opened my eyes. To be honest, my head still hurt, but the pain was less than yesterday. At least now I can move and think clearly.


    "Haaamm... Good morning, honey."


    A woman wearing a thin dress greeted me in bed with a yawn. I looked at her, a little shocked.


    Then I realized something, this woman was my wife. I smiled and caressed her cheek.


    "Good morning honey."


    I replied.


    "Looks like you''re feeling better now."


    She touched my forehead and nodded when she noticed that I was no longer burning with a fever. I guess I had a fever last night, which explains why my head was a bit groggy.


    Furthermore, I noticed that I wasn''t averse to her touch, as if I was used to it. This was probably because of the memories and emotions that lived inside me. I easily accepted the changes, it was normal for me.


    "But still, you must rest today."


    "But I have to work," I answered naturally.


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    I tried to sit up but my wife glared at me... So I lay down again.


    I have to work today. If I am absent for a day, then less paycheck and I don''t want that.


    "I already talked to your manager and he let you rest for a day. Don''t worry, he said this day is paid. He is probably worried about you..."


    She paused. Then she stood up and fixed the bed on her side.


    "You have to relax today, do you understand?"


    She raised her brow while staring at me and I instinctively nodded. I don''t want to fight again.


    "Good, now wait here and I will check the kids."


    Her beautiful figure left the room and I realized one thing important.


    ''My wife has pink hair and red eyes...''


    That''s right! Now everything makes sense!


    Before I transmigrated, the Goddess told me that she would send me to an alternate universe that closely resembles Earth.


    Now, let me introduce Earth... The name of this planet was the same as my home planet.


    "Even the countries are the same."


    Just like in my past life, I was still a citizen of the Philippines. A 3rd world country where poor families were rampant.


    However, there was an obvious difference between the two planets.


    The first was history.


    "This planet never had a 2nd World War. Added to that, the famous guy who has a mustache was not a dictator but a famous painter instead."


    Hitler''s piece of artwork was a masterpiece on this planet. His paintings were loved by many.


    "Wow, I can''t believe that I''m living in that timeline..."


    I muttered, a little bit dumbfounded. Considering that I know the history of the other side, this was indeed shocking.


    Furthermore, the people here were more unique.


    "They have different hair colors, just like an anime. Even their eye colors varied."


    People here had different colors aside from the usual black, blonde, and red hair.


    This explains why my wife had pink hair and red eyes. God, she is so beautiful.


    "Jajjy!"


    I suddenly heard a cute squeal as the door opened. My wife was holding little Sophia.


    "Awww, how''s my sweet daughter?"


    I instinctively reached out to hold her.


    "Sophia misses you Jajjy!"


    She mumbled adorably. Ah, my sweet daughter is killing me!


    You know what, it''s scary that I accepted this situation so easily, but I don''t give a fuck! At least I have a cute daughter now, that''s all that matters!


    Penelope handed Sophia to me and my little girl was now in my arms.


    "Jajjy!"


    "Babu babu babu~ You''re so cute as always, Sophia."


    "Hehe."


    I shook my arms gently for Sophia. My little Sophia giggled as I joined in her babbling speech.


    My daughter inherited my blue eyes, while she inherited her mother''s pink hair.


    "Dad. Morning."


    A small and firm greeting. I turned to my son, who always pursed his lips and spoke a little. He just stood there, like a statue. But I could see that his eyes were shining brighter now.


    "Roman, come here."


    The young man approached me and nodded. I ruffled his black hair and he just stood still. As always, he was quiet. He had my grandfather''s temperament. Serious and calm.


    "Dad, I want to play Snake."


    But no matter how much he acted like a mature child, Roman was still a child. As much as he could, he would always play Snake and Space Impact with my phone.


    I nodded and gave him my phone, it was a Nokia 6110, the one with an antenna. It was the only luxury I could bring with me when my wife and I eloped...


    "Charge it when you''re done."


    "Hm."


    He nodded, his eyes glowing with glee.


    "Bwother, I want to watch."


    Unlike Sophia, Roman had black hair and red eyes. He was almost an exact copy of me when I was his age.


    "I left you a cake, do you want to eat it?"


    "Okay."


    I got up this time and Penelope didn''t stop me. I approached our second-hand refrigerator and opened it... Only to realize that we didn''t have much food.


    Except for the cake and dozens of bottles of water, there was nothing.


    My lips twitched. As a father, I feel depressed. Maybe that was one of the reasons why I killed myself...

 RDD 6

    Chapter Six


    [SHOUT TO ENES AND DUKE YORK!]


    As I ate, I thought bitterly about our current predicament. Now that I think about it, we are in a difficult situation.


    Two weeks ago Roman was sick and we took him to the doctor. The money was spent at that time and we are currently facing a financial problem...


    Luckily it was the end of the year and I will get my bonus and 13th month salary! Woohoo! Yay!


    I regained my composure and happily ate the cake. Eating cake in the morning was quite heavy, but for a starving man like me, I will eat anything as long as it is edible.


    -- Knock knock.


    Suddenly there was a knock at the door. My wife opened it and as expected, the landlord was standing in the doorway.


    "Mrs. De Guzman. Good morning."


    The woman looked old, in her 50s. She had a big belly and was carrying a basket.


    Penelope greeted her with a smile, and Mrs. De Guzman greeted her with a smile as well. However, we both knew the reason why the landlady was visiting us.


    Penelope left the house and closed the door.


    I heard some of their conversations.


    "Penelope, let me get straight to the point, when are you going to pay the rent? You''re two weeks late. If you add the electric bill and the water bill, it would be about 2500 pesos. I don''t want to sound like a bad guy, but you have to pay."


    "Yes. Mrs. De Guzman, my husband will have his salary this week and I will certainly pay you."


    I sighed as I listened. Sometimes life made our lives harder.


    "I understand. How''s Roman? I have fruit here, you can give it to him."


    Mrs. De Guzman may look bad, but she was actually a nice person. She helped us when we had no place to stay. I have a lot of respect for her.


    "T- Thank you Mrs. De Guzman but I have to refuse."


    My wife was overwhelmed and tried to return the basket to the landlord.


    "Take it or I will force you to pay me right now."


    "T-thank you very much."


    My wife reluctantly accepted the gifts. She felt guilty that we didn''t pay the rent on time.


    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.


    "The child is still young, so you must feed him healthy food. Don''t worry, I''m not angry. Just make sure you pay."


    "Yes, I will, Mrs. De Guzman."


    "Oh, and give Sophia some fruit too. I think she can eat solid food now."


    "Thank you very much."


    Penelope said goodbye and returned to the house. She smiled and placed the basket on the table.


    "Wow! Lots of foohd!"


    My little girl clapped her hands excitedly.


    There were bananas, apples, oranges, and strawberries. Strawberries were quite expensive in our country, but Mrs. De Guzman bought them for the kids anyway.


    Penelope looked at me and we both smiled.


    "We really have to pay Mrs. De Guzman."


    "Yes, I feel guilty. Don''t worry, in two days I''ll get my salary, bonus, and 13th month. We will have a lavish Christmas."


    I said and hugged her.


    "Mommy and Jajjy, flirty flirty!"


    Sophia said adorably and Penelope and I both laughed.


    As for Roman, he was just staring at my phone, playing Snake. He just glanced at us and then went back to his game.


    "Let''s see, what do you want to eat?"


    I said, opening my wallet.


    "You have money?"


    My wife asked, raising her eyebrows. I just laughed and realized that I have 1,000 pesos in my wallet.


    If you convert it to USD, it was about 20 dollars... That''s all the money I have left. But since I want to make my kids happy, I''m willing to spend every cent in my wallet.


    "Sophia wants cake!"


    "Honey, we just had cake yesterday. It''s bad to eat too much sweet."


    Penelope pinched her cheeks, but Sophia just looked at me innocently. Then her bright eyes turned red as she shed tears.


    "Wuwuuwuu, Jajjy don''t wuv me!"


    ... Ugh!


    It hurt so much that I clutched at my chest.


    "Th-then I guess we''ll eat cake-"


    "Honey, don''t you dare."


    My wife glared at me and I froze.


    "As always, you are weak before your daughter''s tears. Can''t you see that Sophia is just acting?"


    Penelope wiped away Sophia''s tears and comforted her.


    "Sophia, if we eat cake now, we will not eat candies for the rest of the day."


    "Why?"


    "Because it has too much sugar. So you have to choose between the two. What do you want? Cake or candy?"


    "... Candy."


    She sulked and looked down. She held back her tears and stopped crying. She liked the candy more because she could lick it longer than the soft cake.


    The cake was more delicious, but the candy lasted longer and she could suck on it.


    "What about you Roman, what would you like to eat?"


    "Fried chicken."


    ... My children were quite fussy about their food. Just like normal kids, they don''t like vegetables.


    Roman would eat them, but of course he prefers meat over vegetables. As for my little princess, she would throw a tantrum if you fed her green leaves.


    "Then I will buy chicken and sweets."


    "Be careful."


    I left the house and went downstairs. We live in an old apartment building built almost four decades ago, our unit was on the 2nd floor.


    There was a wet market near our apartment and it only took five minutes to get there.


    "Excuse me, how much is a kilo of chicken?"


    "Customer, that would be 49 pesos."


    "What?"


    "Customer, that''s already low. You can''t buy chicken for that price in other stores."


    The seller probably lied. You can find chicken in other stores for the same price, maybe even less.


    But I''m not shocked about that... No, I''m shocked about the price, but for a different reason.


    I know things were cheaper back then, but I never expected it to be this cheap! Is it because I live in 1999 in a different world? Maybe this parallel universe was much better compared to my old planet.


    I ended up buying a whole chicken for 60 pesos. That should be about 1.2 dollars when converted.


    [Note:]


    [I can''t find the exact prices of products in 1999, so I decided to price them reasonably but lower. However, it''s obvious that products were cheaper back then. As of right now, the price of a kilogram of chicken was 180-220 pesos. Damn... Fuck inflation.]

 RDD 7

    Chapter 7


    When I returned, I had bags of potatoes, chicken, and chocolate in my hands.


    I was only gone half an hour, but it felt like half a day because my mind was traveling. It was strange but amazing to see the prices of the products in the wet market, they were so cheap!


    "Jajjy!"


    Sophia crawled, hugged my leg, and greeted me. But her eyes could never lie, she was staring at the chocolates I bought. She was salivating that her drool was coming out.


    "How was it?"


    My wife helped me with the bags. Then I carried Sophia and wiped her mouth.


    "Mommy, chocwolate!"


    "Honey, you have to wait for later. We are going to have breakfast and you will lose your appetite if you eat chocolate now."


    "Wuuu wuuu..."


    My daughter immediately used her greatest weapon - crying.


    "Okay, but you can only have one."


    Penelope sighed and handed her a small bar of milk chocolate.


    "Yay!"


    She happily nibbled on the chocolate, making her face dirty. I laughed and wiped her face again. Sophia was reasonable and easy to pacify, she only cried when she wanted something... Which in my opinion was still childish. Well, she is still a baby.


    "What about you Roman?"


    I asked my son for some chocolate... but he seemed to be busy clicking on my phone.


    "Roman, answer your father."


    Sophia had already put on an apron and started cooking.


    "I don''t want chocolate, I''ll wait for breakfast."


    ... You just want to keep playing games, don''t you? Now I remember why I don''t usually give my phone to Roman, because his face would never leave the screen.


    Since I brought potatoes, my wife decided to make chicken adobo, and it was delicious.


    We had a hearty meal and spent the day together since I had a day off.


    After a day of nothing but spending my time with my family, my wife lay next down to me.


    "Honey, I think we need to work harder this time."


    If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    "Huh? What do you mean?"


    I looked at my wife who was resting her head on my shoulder. To be honest, I wanted to ''cuddle'' with her, but the kids were still awake. I didn''t dare do anything perverted while they were awake.


    "Well, our kids are growing up and I''m afraid they''ll need more things."


    "Hm."


    I nodded. I knew it very well. I had to work harder for my children. Now that I have accepted this role, I have to keep my responsibilities and provide for them.


    The original owner has already merged with me. It''s impossible to ignore his feelings. Right now, my mission was to give my family a good life, something that the original owner had failed miserably at.


    ''Asshole, you can''t keep your promise, so you succumbed to depression and killed yourself. Maybe that''s the ugly thing about you spoon-fed people, you''re not used to a hard life. In just five years, you have easily lost the will to live.''


    I sighed inwardly. I inherited his memories and I know the reasons why he killed himself. It was disappointing but understandable. He could not overcome it. However, in my opinion, he was still a coward.


    Now I have to take on his role, and I will gladly do so.


    ''Your feelings are so strong that I have easily accepted my identity as the husband and father of this family.''


    I had never experienced marriage in my previous life, and I hadn''t had any children either. But now my mind and body were responding well to this situation.


    "Keith, promise me you will never drink alcohol or smoke again."


    My wife looked at me with tears in her eyes and I felt bad.


    "I will stop smoking, but can I still drink?"


    This man had vices! Disgusting! One of the reasons we''re poor! But my inner demon wanted to drink, it was my pleasure and hobby.


    "No, you have to stop both. Promise me you will stop."


    Her hands grabbed my arm and I felt the pressure. I don''t want to see her sad.


    It was good that 50 percent of this soul was not tainted by vices. I still have the will to stop drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes.


    I sighed.


    "I promise, I will never drink or smoke again."


    "Good."


    She smiled and kissed me on the lips. That kiss made me happy. My feelings towards my wife were quite erratic, but one thing was for sure, I love her kiss.


    She giggled and lay down next to me.


    I swallowed my saliva and turned to her.


    "Honey, can we..."


    "Nope. Not this time, your son has school tomorrow and I have to get up early. We can talk about this tomorrow, okay?"


    "... Okay."


    I nodded forcefully.


    Since Roman was still in kindergarten, he only had to go to kindergarten three times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.


    "Besides, you had a fever last night and I don''t want you to be tired."


    She said mischievously, giggling.


    I just groaned and closed my eyes. Finally, I settled down with a kiss and fell asleep. I was excited about what would happen tomorrow, I feel like I''m a virgin again.


    "... Guh."


    I woke up much earlier than Roman and Penelope. I took a bath, cleaned my body, and left the house. I didn''t bother taking breakfast.


    I walked a few blocks away from the apartment and boarded a jeepney. As more passengers boarded the jeep, my mind recalled our conversation last night.


    ''I need to work harder, huh?''


    Do I need to change my job or something? My job is as a taxi driver and my monthly salary is not bad, around 10 - 15</a> thousand. It all depends on how many trips I make.


    But before I could even think of a solution, a blessing greeted me.


    -- Ding!


    [Grind System! Initiate!]


    [System Remarks: I''m here to help you achieve your goals, it all depends on your perseverance! Grind grind grind grind!]


    [Goddess Remarks: This is probably the first and last time I will contact you. We have decided to give you a small gift. We feel bad about killing you and throwing you to another planet. Have a good life this time, I wish you the best].


    Goddess... All I can say is that you are the best!


    [I want to thank my patrons for supporting my Pat reon: ]


    Aviral Jaat


    Acedia


    Clutch


    Jackson J Betts


    Black


    Till Grothe


    Marlon Allen


    Greatface


    Eduardo


    Zuur


    Enes


    Retired Old Man


    Ryuu


    Raini M. Terante


    Robert Campbell


    VoidStar


    Duke York


    Ausner Gentil

 RDD 8

    Chapter Eight


    "And... That should be 102 pesos, sir."


    I parked my car in front of a bank and turned to look at my customer.


    "Here, you don''t need to give me change."


    "Thank you, sir."


    The man said and got out of the car after giving me 105 pesos. I''m already happy to have three pesos, I appreciate everything good that happens to me. Especially now that I have acquired something amazing!


    I have a system! Something that only happens in fiction! It''s enough to make me jump and scream with joy.


    After taking my last client to the bank, I decided to rest and have lunch at an eatery.


    In this current year of 1999, there is no such thing as Uber. What I usually do is wait in the terminal or drive around until someone calls a taxi and stops me.


    "Madam, can I have some adobo and two cups of rice, please?"


    I smiled happily. I feel blessed.


    "Here."


    The woman quickly prepared my food and handed it to me.


    I sat down and ate the food. Eating rice three times a day is the norm in most Asian countries, especially in the Southeast.


    No matter how delicious the dish was, it was inedible if there was no rice to eat with it. In my opinion, I will never be satisfied if there''s no rice. Eating delicious meal without rice is a torture.


    After I finished eating, I got into the car and rested. I listened to the radio and fell asleep. I need to sleep for at least half an hour to regain my energy. However, no matter how hard I tried to fall asleep, my mind was wandering.


    "Okay, fine."


    I opened the holographic screen and the system greeted me with a simple interface, just like a smartphone.


    There were only three options. Missions, Store, and Inventory.


    [The Grind System]


    I have an idea about the system, but I want to know more.


    So first I clicked on Missions and there were two missions on the screen.


    The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    -------


    (1) [Exercise for 30 minutes today.]


    [Rewards: 1 point].


    [System remarks: The host needs a healthy body.]


    -------


    (2) [Start a business within 100 days].


    [Rewards: 1 Golden Waving Cat]


    [System message: The host is poor, and the best way to escape poverty is to start a business. Being an employee will never give the host wealth and freedom].


    --------


    Simple as that. The first mission seems understandable since it''s called "Grind System". But my eyes stared at the second mission.


    "Really? Business?"


    It gave me a hard mission right from the start.


    I raised my eyebrow. I can''t believe that even the system pushed me to start one.


    "Maybe it''s in my veins. I guess I can''t erase it..."


    I sighed.


    "Indeed, being an employee will never make me rich, at least being a businessman is much better. I''ve been a taxi driver for almost four years now, and our situation is still the same."


    As for the freedom that the system noticed. It''s true that I can''t spend time with my family because I have to prioritize work. Otherwise, we won''t have anything to eat.


    I looked in the rearview mirror and found nothing.


    "... Let''s do it."


    I said to myself. The system was giving me a chance to turn this around. It would be stupid if I let it go to waste.


    Although I''m quite curious why the system only gave me two missions. I want more, to be honest.


    [System remarks: The host is too weak and poor to be given another mission.]


    Ugh!


    System, you don''t have to be so direct. I could feel the mockery even though it spoke in a robotic voice.


    "Exercise and start a business..."


    They were not that hard in my opinion, I can do them.


    .........


    ......


    ...


    6 pm and the sun was no more, I returned the car to the company and I went back to the office to give my quota, the money that the company should receive after I used their taxi... And all that was left in my wallet was 271 pesos, about 5 dollars when converted.


    "Keith, you have to go to the Christmas party tomorrow."


    "I promise manager, I will be there."


    A smile appeared on my face. I know that tomorrow I will receive my 13th month salary and bonus. This was one of the rare times when our company was generous.


    This company had about 1200 taxis running around Manila every day. I don''t want to know how much money they make daily.


    I smiled and said goodbye. I ride a jeepney back to my house. Of course, I bought a pint of ice cream to surprise my kids.


    "Dajjy! Wow, ice cream!"


    Sophia''s eyes lit up when she saw the ice cream. She ran and hugged my leg and looked up at me.


    "Dajjy..."


    "Let''s wait for your mom to eat."


    I know what she wanted, but we have to eat our dinner first before eating cold food, or else she would have a bad stomach.


    "En!"


    She nodded and left me, running to find her mother...


    It feels lonely to know that my daughter is only interested in the ice cream and not me. Well, kids are kids.


    "Honey, you''re here. How''s the day going?"


    "I''m fine."


    I smiled and greeted her with a peck on the cheek. She blushed when she realized I was kissing her in front of the children.


    "Keith Castillo."


    "It''s okay, it''s not even a kiss."


    I shrugged.


    "But still..."


    I had her in my arms before she could protest. My dear wife... We''re going to have a good night together.


    "Okay, okay. Just wait a moment and I will prepare the dishes."


    "Hm, you''re so nice and sweet, very gorgeous."


    "Not in front of the children."


    She said, but her curling lips and blushing cheeks could not lie. Eventually I stopped teasing her and checked on the kids, only to see Roman studying and Sophia talking to her dolls. Ah, the good old days.


    Now... What exercise should I do? The system said I should exercise for half an hour today.


    [Note: My phone got factory reset and I lost almost all my files. Fortunately, most of my chapters are saved in Ko-Fi and Pat reon. Although the space format is atrocious.]

 RDD 9

    [Shout out to Kieta Aki, Sczx, and Mitia RAKOTOFIRINGA!]


    Chapter 9


    "15... 16... 17..."


    I counted my push-ups. Sweat covered my topless body. Doing push-ups was quite tiring, but I have to do it to complete the mission.


    Anyway...


    Why is the timer so slow? Is it just me or is the time really slow?


    Probably because my body was concentrating a lot on the timer. I feel like time is moving slowly even though it is not. There are 14 minutes left, but my arms are already hurting.


    "Ugh!"


    I fall down as I reach 22 push-ups. I looked up to see my wife staring at me. There was confusion in her eyes as she looked at my topless body doing push-ups in the living room.


    "What are you doing?"


    "Push-ups."


    "I know. But why?"


    I could see why she was confused. This was the first time I was exercising. Usually at this time, I should be watching sports or sleeping, but here I was, pushing my arms to the limit.


    "I realized that I have to exercise. A healthy body is a must. Besides... My belly fat is quite big."


    "Ah! Yes, you have a big belly. If you''re not a man, someone might mistake you for a pregnant woman because of your belly."


    "..."


    I decided to start doing push-ups again. I have 14 minutes to spend.


    "Fufu, anyway. I will not stop you from having fun. Let''s see... Sophia, do you want to join your dad?"


    Sophia was playing with her bald dolls when she heard her mother.


    "Hm?"


    "Come here, sweetheart!"


    My daughter innocently approached my wife with wobbly legs.


    "My princess is a genius, she can walk straight now! Do you want to fly, honey?"


    "Yes!"


    Penelope coaxed, and Sophia easily agreed.


    Huh?


    "Honey?"


    "You want to exercise, right? Sophia''s not that heavy, she can help you burn more fat."


    She said as she put Sophia on my back while I did push-ups. I looked at her and realized that she was making fun of me... Okay.


    I continued doing push-ups with more weight on me.


    Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.


    "Yay!"


    Sophia giggled, having fun. In her mind, I was a horse - a pony that she was riding. That''s right, I''m nothing but a pony in her eyes.


    "Dajjy Unicorhn!"


    ... I was not a pony, I was actually a unicorn. Not bad.


    "Hehe!"


    Well, as long as she was happy, I didn''t mind carrying her on my back.


    "Roman, come over here and join your sister."


    "..."


    Honey? Are you serious right now?


    "Why are you looking at me like that?"


    Penelope smiled and fixed her hair. I could see in her eyes that she was enjoying herself. Maybe she was holding a grudge after what happened last time.


    I made her cry the last time we fought and she realized that this was one of the moments to get revenge.


    Okay, I only have to carry two kids, right?


    "Guh--!"


    I messed up. Two kids are painful. Still, I have to persevere. Roman''s weight was four times that of Sophia''s.


    "7... 8... 9..."


    I didn''t stop doing my push-ups.


    "Honey, you can stop if you want."


    My wife said, although she was smiling and watching us.


    "No, I have to hold on for at least 10 minutes."


    "Hm, your kids miss you. You never have time to spend with them."


    "... I will try to change."


    I see.


    This exercise was one of those rare moments when I can be with my kids and have fun. Although to be honest, my arms hurt.


    "I have to work hard!"


    "That''s the spirit."


    "Wife, I want to tell you something when I''m done exercising."


    "Hm, I will wait for you."


    Ten minutes later, I was gasping for breath on the floor, and my two children were staring at me innocently. Roman is always quiet, while Sophia wiped my sweat with her tiny towel.


    "Dajjy, you diwty. You smell swour. Mama said. It''s bad to stway on the floow."


    "Thank you, sweetheart."


    I weakly stood up and Penelope handed me a towel to wipe myself down.


    [Mission completed!]


    [You earned 1 point]


    I heard the system notification in my head and nodded in satisfaction. Now I felt that all my hard work was worth it, at least I get 1 point...


    I''ll think about what to do with this 1 point later. For now, let''s have a talk with my wife.


    The Grind System gave me another mission. The mission was to start a business, and the reward was quite interesting.


    The system is right, if I want to give my family a prosperous life, starting a business is one of the best options.


    So I have to talk to my wife and convince her that I want to start a business. Let''s hope she agrees. I swallowed hard and took a deep breath.


    "Why are you acting like this? Honey, I''m not going to eat you."


    Considering that we lived together for almost six years, I found her statement wrong...


    Anyway, we went to our room. We don''t want the kids to overhear our conversation.


    "Penelope... I want to start a business."


    "Business, huh? Looks like business runs in your veins."


    She touched her chin and nodded, remembering something.


    "Let''s not talk about that. What do you think? Do you agree?"


    I was kind of nervous. Maybe my wife would disagree. To be fair, my job pays well, and in this economy, losing a job means a lot.


    I waited for my wife''s reaction.


    "I''m fine with it. We''ll get your bonus and 13 month and we can use it to invest in a business."


    "So you agree?"


    "Well, I''m actually thinking the same thing."


    "Huh?"


    She smiled and averted her gaze.


    "Wife?"


    "My mother called earlier and she wants us to go back to the province and spend Christmas and New Year there."


    Mrs. De Guzman, the landlord, has a landline phone and sometimes we use it to contact Penelope''s family.


    "I think it''s great, your parents love Roman. Looks like I have to buy presents for them."


    I thought.


    Penelope''s parents had only met Roman because Sophia had not yet been born the last time we were there. Since then, we kept sending money every three months to Penelope''s family because we knew how hard the life in the province.


    To be fair, my first meeting with Penelope''s parents was memorable. His father punched me in the face, angry that I had destroyed their daughter''s life. Yes, I can understand their feelings.


    I got their daughter pregnant and eloped, returning only when we were already married and had a child.


    [Note: The creation of this novel was a bit simple. After finishing my last novel MNPOTS (526 chapters), I created a poll and my patrons voted between the two novels I want to write.


    The first one is a Zombie Apocalypse with a female MC.


    The second is a slice of life with a male MC.


    Obviously they chose the second one, which is now the RDD. 60 percent of them voted for Slice of Life with a male mc to be exact.


    Of course, since all my patrons are male (I think), I promised that the novel will have smut...].

 RDD 10

    Chapter 10


    Nevertheless, they accepted us after Penelope cried a lot. The parents and daughter reconciled and burst into tears. It was a tearful scene and I almost cried, but my cheek was swollen at that time.


    Besides, they like Roman very much because he is cute, handsome, and smart.


    "My father decided to sell the land, they don''t want to farm anymore. Mom and Dad are getting old anyway, and most of my siblings don''t want to farm."


    "Wait, what?"


    I was stunned when I heard the news.


    "My brothers and sisters don''t want to farm."


    "No, before that."


    "My father wants to sell the land."


    That''s right. As far as I know, Penelope''s family has 5 hectares of farmland. It was a big piece of land, and her family used it to grow corn and rent out the other part. Despite having a large piece of land, Penelope''s parents still have a hard time.


    Penelope has 9 siblings, most of them were already old. She was fourth in the family. When she was young, it was hard for her parents to feed them all.


    "Maybe they want to retire. All my siblings are grown up now except the youngest son, my parents want to take life easy."


    In fact, farming was a hard job with little profit. Our government is slowly killing the farmers and they have obviously done it very well.


    That''s why no one wants to be a farmer. They prefer to work in factories or offices, at least they can earn more money and it is less tiring.


    My grandfather was a farmer before he sold his land and moved to the capital. Then he worked as a construction worker. Until he became a foreman and started his own construction company.


    Everyone has to start something to achieve something.


    "Then," I swallowed hard. "Suppose he want to sell half of his land. How much will it cost?"


    I know I sound like a greedy son-in-law, but I can''t help it. We''re talking about a lot of money here, and I''m hoping my wife will get at least a small amount. I''m not asking for much, just enough to see my wife smile.


    "About that... They agreed on 1.7 million PHP for 2.5 hectares and will sign the papers on December 23rd."


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    "Then..."


    I stared at her and she nodded.


    "Hm, they want to give half of the amount to their children and I will get part of the money."


    She smiled and kissed my cheek. I was still stunned when I heard what she said, but the kiss woke me up.


    "Honey!"


    "Uh-huh, don''t celebrate yet. Let''s celebrate with Mom and Dad."


    "T- that''s right."


    The transaction was not yet completed. They want all the siblings to be there and receive the money together.


    "If we want to get there before 24, you have to talk to your manager and get the bonus and 13 months. We need money to go back to the province."


    I nodded. I have to hand in my resignation tomorrow. HR will understand, I think.


    "Are you really sure you want to quit your job? It''s hard to find a nice job like yours."


    She looked at me worriedly.


    "You know, I don''t mind putting the money in the bank."


    "Honey, you said I need to work harder. I want to start a business to give you a nice future. It sounds scary, but I have a plan."


    Now that there is a system to help me, I''m confident that I can create a profitable business. I want to prove myself.


    "I trust you.


    Penelope, I love your smile.


    "Hm."


    I hugged her and kissed her neck.


    "Honey, you understand the children are still awake. You have to wait for a little."


    Then I licked my lips and whispered close to her ear.


    "Honey, I want to..."


    "No, you will not drink alcohol tonight. You promise me you will never touch alcohol again."


    "Yes. Then how about--"


    "No smoking either. Don''t you feel sorry for the children? They breathe in the smoke every time you light a cigarette."


    "I understand, I''m sorry. I will do my best to quit."


    "That''s the spirit, otherwise I will not sleep with you tonight."


    My hug tightened when I heard what she said.


    "Looks like someone is afraid to sleep alone."


    She said teasingly, looking at me.


    "Wife..."


    I stroked her hair and kissed her forehead.


    I was disappointed that I will never taste alcohol and cigarettes again, but I have to be stronger for my family. Alcohol makes me so dramatic that I''m thinking of killing myself... Maybe alcohol pushed me to die.


    As for smoking, I never want any of my children to inhale it, so I smoke far away from them. But since I promised my wife to stay away from cigarettes, I will stay away from them.


    My willpower is stronger now.


    "Let''s wait until the children are asleep, then we will start."


    She escaped my embrace and left the room giggling. She could tell by my reaction that I was excited.


    "I understand."


    I was kind of thirsty right now. I want to eat my beautiful wife... Ahem, anyway, I followed Penelope and checked on the two kids.


    "Mommy, sleepy..."


    "Honey~ Do you want to sleep now?"


    "En."


    Sophia nodded and yawned. It was easy for a small child like her to fall asleep. Sophia sleeps early and doesn''t cry in the middle of the night most of the time.


    Penelope took her to her room. Sophia was still sleeping in a crib and she loves her bed because she is surrounded by lots of squishy dolls.


    Great, my sweet daughter wants to sleep.


    I''m excited because one of the kids wants to sleep and I can cuddle with Penelope much earlier... But I looked at Roman, it looks like this kid wants to stay up late because there''s no school tomorrow.


    But still, Roman is a child and his stamina diminished quickly. He went to his room and fell asleep.


    Now...


    "Fufu, why are you acting like this?"


    "Wife, I miss you."


    "Geez."


    I stared at my wife and Penelope giggled, I followed her back to our room and our night began.


    [Ahem, Smut alert next chapters.]


    [This novel has 80 chapters, 2 PDFS, Smutty AI illustrations, and 10 character gifs on Pat reon.]

 RDD 11

    Chapter Eleven


    When Penelope and I entered the kids room, we saw that both children were asleep.


    Sophia was hugging her dolls and looked adorable. The crib was getting smaller for her, maybe when she turned two we would have to find a new bed for her.


    When Sophia was a baby, she always slept in our room. However, we noticed that Sophia rarely cried at night. Once she fell asleep, she slept quietly.


    The only time she cried was when she wet her diaper.


    When we realized that Sophia was sleeping well, we decided to move her crib into Roman''s room. Our room was not that big and even the crib took up a lot of space in our room... Besides, we could not do it when our little girl was sleeping in our room.


    My wife fixed Roman''s sheet to make sure our son was covered and not cold. Then she checked Sophia. She nodded as she confirmed that they were both sleeping comfortably.


    When our eyes met, we both giggled. She leaned over and whispered in my ear.


    "Let''s go to our room."


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    I nodded subconsciously. She pulled my arms into our room. I was mesmerized by her beauty, as if I had been seduced by a succubus.


    She put her hands on my shoulders to push me onto the bed, but then stopped and gave me a soft kiss. "Are you ready?"


    Her voice broke my trance and I blushed slightly. ''Yes.'' I didn''t dare say anything for fear of waking up from this dream.


    Right now my wife was getting horny and so was I.


    I sat down as she gently pushed me onto our bed. Then she began to undress, sensually. Her slight movements released pheromones and I was hypnotized. I swallowed my saliva. I knew that my heart was pounding because my veins were pulsating strongly.


    "Honey, don''t you know how beautiful you are?"


    The words just came out of my mouth when she was completely naked. She giggled when she heard my answer.


    "Keith, you are blushing. Come on, this is not the first time we have done this."


    She smiled and approached me. Her white legs were so pure that I wanted to stain them. Her every move was sexy.


    My cock was hard right now.  We were already at our limit. I wanted more from her.


    "You need something, Keith? Just tell me and I will give it to you, huh?" She purred.


    It was as if her tone seduced me. Like a drug she had just injected into my body. My breathing intensified and my skin burned. Why are you doing this to me?


    "You know what I want."


    I said crudely.


    "Indeed."


    She puckered her lips and kissed me. We made out passionately with our tongues. Every moment of passion, the moment before penetration was the best. My wife was a goddess and the most beautiful woman I''ve ever seen.


    [RoyalRoad don''t like smut, so the following scenes are available on Webnovel and Scribblehub.]

 RDD 12 - 14

    [Shout out to Jose Bautista, Sleepymoonfox, Cisco a Millie!]


    Chapter 14


    The kids woke up late because they slept late last night. Luckily for Roman, he didn''t have school today and could sleep as much as he wanted.


    When they got up, I was already saying goodbye. Penelope came over and kissed me on the cheek.


    "Be careful on the road, honey."


    "I will."


    My wife curled her lips. She seemed to have had a good time last night, her cheeks were flushed and she looked radiant.


    "Dajjy, take care."


    Sophia said as she pulled her teddy bear and walked on all fours. I carried my sweet daughter and kissed her too. She giggled like a child and I set her down on her mother''s arms. Penelope gently put her down so Sophia could play.


    "Hm."


    As for Roman, who has bed hair, he just nodded and looked at me. I shrugged and fixed his hair before leaving.


    "Be safe, Dad."


    "I''ll be back before night and I''ll bring presents. What do you want?"


    Since I''m getting my bonus and 13 months'' salary today, I want to surprise my kids.


    But I don''t know what they want. All I know is that I won''t disappoint my children if I give them something. They are such wonderful children. So kind, so intelligent, and so sweet... sometimes problematic.


    Roman smirked and gave me a hug.


    "I want a Gameboy!"


    "..."


    I don''t know how to react. Let''s see... No, Gameboy might be affordable, but I know that Roman will be addicted to it as soon as I buy him one.


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    Besides, I would rather buy a sack of rice than spend thousands on a Gameboy. What about the game disks? Of course I have to buy them if I buy a Gameboy, so no.


    "What else do you want besides a Gameboy?"


    When Roman heard what I said, he shut his mouth and stared at me. Kid, you are too smart for a boy.


    "... Beyblade."


    "Okay, I''ll buy you one."


    Beyblade is cool, and Beyblade is nice. At least it''s cheaper than a Gameboy. Kids these days, they think you can find money on the street.


    I will spoil my children as long as I can, but buying expensive toys for them recklessly will not be tolerated.


    And now Roman has stopped staring at me. He''s looking somewhere beside me. Probably at Sophia, who''s crawling next to me.


    "Well, my little princess, what do you want?"


    I gently pinched her nose. Sophia didn''t bother to stop me, because her mind was on what she wanted.


    "I want a bawbie dwoll!"


    She cried, waving her little soft hands.


    Hm? Ah. She probably means Barbie doll.


    That''s Sophia for you. If you ask any girl if she likes dolls or not, she''ll say yes in a heartbeat. Then again, she''s just a baby.


    "Okay. Okay, then, a Barbie doll for our little baby."


    "Yay! Can we play with Bawbie tomorrow?"


    "Of course, let''s do it tomorrow."


    "Yay!"


    She jumped around and I immediately grabbed her in case she lost her balance. I felt like carrying her everywhere, but I couldn''t.


    I have to go out and get a paycheck.


    Penelope walked in with a sandwich. I was surprised that she made one, she is obviously happy... She stood next to me and handed me a small sandwich and some fruit juice.


    "Eat it now."


    I took the food from her and quickly munched it. Penelope chuckled and leaned in to kiss my cheek. Her soft lips lingered on my skin for a moment. When I raised my head after taking a bite of the sandwich, Penelope smiled warmly and walked away.


    "Good luck, honey~"


    "Thank you."


    "Get home safe."


    I smiled and shut the door.


    "Now let''s start this day with joy."


    .........


    ......


    ...


    When I arrived at the company, I saw my co-workers chatting and laughing. Everyone was happy because they knew it was payday.


    "Hey Keith, come join us later! We''re going to have fun and drink all around!"


    "I''ll pass, I don''t want to drink anymore."


    "Bullshit, you?"


    They laughed and I just shrugged my shoulders. I don''t have to explain because I know they wouldn''t believe me anyway.


    At this point I should have checked my timetable and grabbed my taxi, but my feet were moving in the opposite direction. I reached the office and saw my manager, it seemed they were busy preparing for today.


    After this, I will never come back to this company.


    I don''t have a problem, and this company has been good to me. But I decided to quit because I want to start my own business.


    A risk, but with the help of the System I know that I will never suffer, at least not that much, I think...


    I entered the office and sat down in the chair in front of the desk. The manager looked at me and greeted me.


    "Good morning, Keith."


    "Good morning."


    "Anything you want to tell me?"


    Seeing that he was busy, I wanted to say no, but I knew I had to say it today. I have to resign before I go to Penelope''s province. In a way, this is a do-or-die situation for me, since I have decided to quit my well-paying job.


    "About that..."


    If I continue to procrastinate, the company is bound to have a problem. They will have to find someone to replace me. And there will be more problems. I don''t want to deal with a lot of problems.


    Well, the fact that I''m quitting without notice would cause problems for them as well. But I''m sure they''ll find a replacement for me. My job is a taxi driver, and many could take that job as long as they have a driver''s license.


    "Can we talk outside?"


    I asked.


    "Yeah, sure, no problem."


    I just want to enjoy my life. I want to find happiness with the person who will love me for the rest of my life. This job is taking up too much of my time that I could be spending with my family. So my decision is already clear.


    I will quit my job in this company and focus solely on my family. Now, I am only 25 years old. I''m still young, so I shouldn''t worry too much about the future. There''s always hope for me.


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 RDD 15

    [Shout out to Cameron and Roof Humper!]


    Chapter 15


    We left the office and went outside together. The place we went to was only a few meters away from the office.


    Actually, I feel bad about quitting now that I can see that the manager looked tired. If I add my resignation, he will probably be depressed.


    [Acquire new mission!]


    [Quit your job].


    [Reward: 1 point].


    Ay!


    I was stunned for a second before I realized what had happened. The message was abrupt and shocking.


    I don''t know what to say. It looks like the system wants me to quit this job... Well, I guess I don''t have a choice.


    The system made it easier for me. Now I don''t feel guilty at all. This resignation may affect them and me, but at least I will get a reward from the system. 1 point is still 1 point.


    Let''s just hope they don''t give me less money. On the other hand, my decision has already been made the moment I had the Grind System.


    "Manager, I want to resign. Here''s my letter of resignation."


    When I pulled out the letter I prepared last night, the manager was stunned. His expression was somber.


    "Huh? Are you kidding me, even you, Keith?"


    "I''m sorry."


    That was all I could say. This job has helped me and my family a lot.


    The manager sighed as he looked at my serious expression. From what he said, it seemed that I wasn''t the only one who had resigned...


    "Is it because of what happened last month?"


    "..."


    I had never really thought about that. But honestly, what happened last month was too hard for me.


    Last month, a big incident happened and it was even announced on national television.


    Two car thieves were killed by the police. They were killed while driving a stolen car. And yes, the person they stole from was me, Keith Castillo.


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    I was scared shitless at the time. The two men got into my car and I thought they were just customers. But when they pulled out their guns and pointed them at my head, I thought I was going to die.


    They stole my hard-earned money and my company car. I didn''t dare fight back because I knew how stupid it would be.


    Then they sped off and left me in the middle of the road.


    I was sweating and traumatized, but I realized I could get fired if I didn''t do something. So I called the police and they tracked down the car using the license plate.


    A shootout ensued and the two carjackers were killed. The media interviewed me, but I asked them to blur my face because I didn''t want to scare my family... Penelope still found out and cried.


    This incident traumatized me and made me depressed. I can say it was one of the reasons I killed myself.


    It''s ironic that I''m afraid of death, and yet I killed myself.


    It''s ironic that I want to quit, but I''m afraid of being fired.


    The company never blamed me and even gave me compensation and a week''s vacation. All I did with the money was buy alcohol and drown in depression. My wife and I fought over it. I know, I''m an asshole. I will never touch alcohol again.


    I kept my mouth shut and let the manager misunderstand.


    "I see..."


    The manager sighed again. He didn''t want to blame me because he knew what I had been through. Maybe he thought I was afraid of this job.


    To be fair, being a taxi driver is a lot better than other jobs. At least it pays better than being a construction worker or a factory worker. Working in an office sounds good, too, but I had no luck for five years, and being a taxi driver was my best job.


    "Last week another car was stolen. It seems there''s a crime syndicate targeting taxi cars. We''re not the only company they''ve stolen from, so I understand if you want to quit."


    ... I didn''t know that. I guess I''m not the only one out of luck. I hope they can move on because having two guns pointed at you is scary.


    "It''s okay, I''ll set your salary today, and your separation fee too. What are you going to do from now on? Do you want me to find you a job? I know a restaurant that needs a waiter."


    "Actually, I want to start my own business. Just a small business, I don''t ask for much."


    I scratched the back of my head and felt ashamed. The manager is a good guy to understand my situation. He didn''t even look angry, just sad.


    "That''s good."


    "Thanks."


    "Just wait here for half an hour. You can see we''re getting ready for the Christmas party and the bonuses. I''ll call you as soon as I get the paperwork done."


    "Thank you, manager."


    Waiting half an hour is no problem for me.


    .........


    ......


    ...


    After half an hour, the manager came back and handed me an envelope with a pile of bills inside. I took a look and realized it was quite a lot...


    "M- Manager--"


    "Just take it. You''re a good person and you''ve earned it. I''m thankful that you never blame the company.


    ... Again, I hadn''t thought of that. Is it even possible to file a complaint?


    "So you don''t want to stay and join the party? We hired a caterer and there is alcohol."


    "I''m sorry, manager, I have something to do."


    It would be embarrassing for me to join the party knowing that I have already quit. It would be too shameless.


    "Hm, have a good trip. I hope you have a fruitful business."


    "Thank you very much. I wish you a Merry Christmas."


    I could not help but bow my head. I am grateful for the manager''s kindness.


    [Mission completed!]


    [You earned 1 point!]


    As I said goodbye, I knew this would be the last time I''d be here. The system informed me that I had completed the mission. I grinned and found a safe place to count my money.


    Poor people love money! Big money!


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 RDD 16

    [Shout out to Sandra Torres, ABDI ALI, and Ole Martin Johnsen!]


    Chapter 16


    My feet immediately took me to a shopping mall where I''m sure no one could steal my money.


    Manila has a strong trend of people-get-robbed. Hell, my taxi was stolen from me last time.


    I went to the restroom and walked into an empty stall. I sat down on the toilet and started counting the money with my shaking hands.


    For the record, I was only a 20-year-old college student when I was reborn into this world. I never touch a large amount of money.


    But now that I''m a 25-year-old man, I''m still excited to know that I''m holding a big pile of money.


    "Let''s see..."


    I quietly counted it and it was 40 thousand pesos. I counted it again just to make sure I didn''t make a mistake.


    I have 40 thousand pesos in my hands... I think that''s a lot of money, especially at this time when the inflation rate was not a monster.


    My monthly salary is around 10-13 thousand. To receive 40 thousand upfront is overwhelming for me.


    "I have to put it in the bank.


    At least half of it, I have to make sure it would be safe. Setting up a bank account was the best and safest option.


    I don''t know about other companies, but our company didn''t open a bank account for us. They give the money in cash. Besides, for us men who like practicality, withdrawing from the bank is a hassle. It may have something to do with the fact that I''m in 1999 and banking was only for rich people.


    Anyway, knowing that I will get a lot of money today, I came prepared.


    There were banks in the mall where I could put my money and I chose the best one that I know would last long even in 2023.


    BDO (Banco De Oro) is one of the famous banks in the Philippines and it has a nice policy... Ahem. Anyway, this bank is the best even in 2023. Let''s hope that this bank will be the same on this planet.


    "Hello sir, how can I help you?"


    I entered the bank and was greeted by the bank teller.


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    "Um, I want to open a bank account and deposit money."


    The teller nodded and started asking me questions. I answered as best I could and gave her my IDs and birth certificate.


    After half an hour of talking and typing on her old-ass computer, I gave her half of my money, which was 20 thousand. The transaction was complete.


    I left the place with bank documents and an ATM card.


    "Now I remember that Roman wants a Beyblade while Sophia wants a Barbie."


    Luckily, I''m already at the mall and could easily find the toy store. I looked around and easily found what they wanted.


    "I hope they like the toys."


    Now, I may be an old guy, but I''m confident about aesthetics. I know if a toy is ugly or not, and the toys I chose are good. They were 100 pesos each and I could say that they were expensive at that price.


    Before I took the jeepney, I bought donuts and fried chicken to eat once I got back to the house.


    We live in Quezon City and the city was better than the provinces at this time, except for the clean air.


    "Dajjy!"


    When I knocked on the door, my precious daughter already knew that I''m here.


    "Mommy, the doow! Jajjy is here!"


    "Yes, sweetheart." My wife giggled and I heard her footsteps.


    When the door opened, I greeted my wife with a peck and she blushed slightly.


    "I have souvenirs!"


    I laughed and entered the door holding plastic bags.


    "Bawbie! Bawbie!"


    The children knew I had brought their toys and they surrounded me with excitement. Even Roman''s eyes lit up when he saw the plastic bags.


    "Children, don''t fight, greet your father first."


    "Welcome home Dajjy!"


    Sophia came up to me and put her forehead on the back of my hand. This gesture is called ''mano''. It''s a way to honor the elders and ask for their blessings.


    Roman ''manoed'' too, just like his little sister.


    "Bless you, children."


    After I said that, I put the plastic bags on the table and the kids were like hungry wolves and tore them.


    "Children, behave."


    Penelope glared at them and both Roman and Sophia flinched. As always, they were afraid of their mother when she was angry.


    "Take your time, no one is going to steal your things. You don''t have to act like brutes."


    She reminded them and helped them with their toys.


    As for me, I just watched them as I sat down. The trip back and forth took almost an hour and a half. It was a toll on me. Especially when I had 19K with me.


    "Yay! Bawbie!"


    Sophia giggled and clapped her hands when she saw her new toy. The Barbie looked beautiful with a complete set of clothes.


    As for Roman, he was already assembling the Beyblade.


    "Roman, you must be careful with your toys. Don''t let Sophia touch it when it''s spinning, you understand?"


    "Hm."


    He nodded and walked quickly to his room. His feet were so fast that I thought he was going to fall.


    After making sure the children were playing with their toys, Penelope smiled and approached me. She handed me a glass of water and patted me on the back.


    "I''m sorry, the kids are too excited, I can''t help you."


    "That''s okay, I''m glad they like what I bought."


    She had to take care of the kids first and I don''t have a problem. I understand her.


    "Just like we talked about before, I put half of the money in the bank."


    She put the fried chicken and doughnuts in the fridge and sat down next to me. She kissed my cheek and I want more, let''s ask her later.


    "So... how much was it?"


    She was curious, and I understood her. After all, I was excited when I received the money as well.


    I held up four fingers and my wife was shocked.


    "4? You mean 40 thousand?"


    "Yes."


    "Wow!"


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 RDD 17

    [Shout out to Howellsy, ALMIGHT_FLEX, and Abdul!]


    Chapter 17


    My wife was as shocked as I was when I counted the money. For a lower-middle-class family like ours, having that much cash was surprising.


    She smiled, but I knew she was as nervous as I was.


    "It''s good that you put it in the bank, but I''m shocked that you carried almost PHP 20,000 in your pocket alone! Don''t do it again."


    "Yes."


    I agreed with her. At least I have to make sure the money is safe while I''m in public.


    "Looks like I have to prepare our clothes later. We have to go to the province before December 23rd to attend the signing of the contract."


    "Hm, I already bought a souvenir for father and mother-in-law."


    "Let''s think about a business when everything is over. We don''t have the money yet, so let''s take it slow."


    Penelope sighed as she said this. It was a bit sad for her that half of their land would be sold. She had a lot of important memories and was very attached to the place.


    She had grown up helping her parents. However, she understood that no one wanted to take over the farm, so selling it was the best option.


    Besides, our family needed the money. No, everyone needs money, not just us.


    I clenched my fists. When I get rich, I will buy back the land for my wife.


    "Hm, let''s eat first. Kids, put down your toys and wash your hands, we''re going to eat chicken and donuts."


    "Donuts?"


    "Chicken?"


    The two children immediately dropped their toys. They could play with them later, but their stomachs needed nourishment.


    They paced to the kitchen and awkwardly washed their little hands.


    My wife and I laughed at their excitement as we prepared the dishes.


    -Nom nom nom nom.


    As we both expected, Sophia and Roman only attack the chicken and the donuts. They never touch the rice or the vegetables.


    "Roman, you have to eat pumpkin, and you too, Sophia."


    Penelope gave each child a spoonful of pumpkin.


    The children obviously hated vegetables, judging by their expressions.


    "..."


    Roman glared hatefully at the pumpkin. He ate it along with the chicken just to get over the taste.


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    Unfortunately, Sophia, the youngest child, threw a tantrum. She almost cried when she saw the vegetables on her plate.


    -- sniff sniff...


    My little girl looked at me and asked for help. But I couldn''t help her because Penelope was staring at me too...


    Sorry princess, I don''t want to make your mother angry, or else she won''t cuddle with me later.


    Considering that the food was great, I can say that our lunch was lively.


    The kids were giggling/grumbling all over the place. My wife was happy and relaxed as she fed Sophia. She was smiling, thinking about her parents.


    After lunch, Penelope left the house. She went to the school cafeteria to tell her manager that she would be gone for the long week''s vacation. I''m sure it would be fine.


    The school cafeteria would not be busy. The students would also be on vacation.


    "Kids, do you want to watch movies?"


    I''m the only adult and it''s my responsibility to take care of them.


    Unfortunately, Roman was busy with his Beyblade. Watching it spin over and over again.


    As for Sophia, she was talking to her new Barbie toy, asking if Barbie liked her hair combed.


    Sophia was still a baby, so I put her next to me so I could see what she was doing.


    "Dajjy, your eyes awe blue just like mine? Why is that?"


    "Sweetheart, I''m your father and you inherited the color of my eyes. Look at your brother, his eyes are red just like your Mom."


    Finally, I sighed and sat down in front of the big-fat TV. I was still not used to seeing this kind of ''old'' television. In 2023, most of the TVs sold were flat screens.


    "Anyway, let''s see what I can watch... Rambo, Rambo 2, Rambo 3, Rocky, Rocky 2, Rocky 3. Total Recall, Terminator, True Lies. Damn, I guess I like Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger a lot, huh".


    I could not help it, they were my idols...


    "That..."


    I was stunned by my own atrocities, most of the videotapes I have are action movies!


    Well, action movies are not bad. In my opinion, they are much better than the repetitive superhero movies of the next two decades.


    That''s right, I became numb from watching superhero movies. I''m tired of Marvel movies.


    In the end, I settled on Keanu Reeves'' Speed. I like the fast-paced and nerve-wracking explosion scenes... Let''s not talk about "Speed 2", Keanu was not the male lead in that movie.


    While the kids were busy with their toys, I was watching an action movie. Luckily, there were peanuts to munch on while I was immersed in the movie.


    Unbeknownst to me, half an hour had passed and my wife returned.


    "How are the kids, honey?"


    "Hm, they''re fine."


    I nodded and turned off the TV. I turned to my wife who was approaching Sophia and checking on the child.


    "How was it?"


    "The manager agrees. Oh, I already paid Mrs. De Guzman on the way. I told her that we will go to the province."


    "I''ll help you pack our bags later."


    "Thank you. Now... Roman, come here. I have something to say to you and Sophia."


    The two children looked at their mother, waiting for her next words.


    "Tomorrow we are going to your grandparents, so you have to go to bed early."


    "Yea!"


    Roman was excited, he knew his grandparents. They love him. He immediately turned around and cleaned his room to pack his things.


    "Grandma?"


    As for Sophia, she was confused because she never knew her grandparents.


    "That''s right, sweetie, we''re going to meet Grandpa and Grandma. Don''t you remember them? Didn''t you talk to them last time?"


    "Really? Ah! Grandpa and Grandma!"


    Sophia had never met them, but she had talked to them on the phone. Even though she was usually shy and didn''t talk much.


    "That''s right, so you need to sleep early tonight so we don''t leave you."


    "Ah!"


    My wife teased, and Sophia looked shocked. She watched Home Alone last month and cried because the boy was pitiful, left alone by his parents.


    "Mommy, don''t leave me!"


    "I promise, sweetheart, but you have to behave."


    "Okay!"


    She nodded and hugged her mother.


    [Hi, I just want to promote my other novels:]


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 RDD 18

    [I apologize if my grammar is bad. I''m from the Philippines. Most people here can speak and understand English, but our grammar is terrible. I can attest to that. 100% fr fr]


    Chapter 18


    While Penelope was talking to the children about their grandparents. I decided to start my daily 30-minute exercise.


    I realized that the Grind System gave me a daily mission. That was to spend 30 minutes of my day exercising.


    So I went to the living room and started doing push-ups and curl-ups. These two exercises didn''t require any equipment and I could do them at home.


    My stomach is getting fat, so I need to burn more fat, and curl-ups is one of the ways to do it.


    I started tiring myself out just to get one more point in the system.


    Then my wife came over and looked at me. She was a little amused to see me working out again.


    "So you''re really serious about losing fat?"


    "Yeah, I have to."


    I replied under my breath.


    "How are the kids?"


    "They are fine. They are excited when I told them they are going to a faraway place where they can see beautiful scenery."


    She smiled and squatted down beside me.


    "That''s good. They need to get to bed early since the trip will be tiring. I''ll help you look at them later."


    "Thank you."


    She said as she looked at my biceps, grinning and pinching my shoulder.


    "Work hard."


    "I will."


    .........


    ......


    ...


    Half an hour later, I was drenched in my own sweat when I got up. I was panting weakly, but in the end, I completed the mission.


    I heard the system notification telling me that I had earned another point.


    "Phew."


    I sat down on the sofa, but my wife clicked her tongue when she saw the sweat touching the sofa.


    "Here, let me wipe you."


    She stared at me coldly as she gestured for me to come closer. My wife was a clean freak and she didn''t like the place dirty.


    A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    "O- okay."


    I winced and approached her awkwardly.


    "You should wipe off your sweat before you touch anything, you understand?"


    "Yes, ma''am."


    I was like a student being lectured by a teacher. Besides, the teacher was a terror.


    "What about the floor? I don''t want my children to fall because the floor is wet from your sweat."


    She said, wiping my skin with pressure.


    "I-I will wipe it."


    What can I say? I''m the wrong one, so I couldn''t argue. I might as well follow her will.


    "... Let me get you some water."


    But in the end, I know my wife cares about me.


    "Thank you."


    I smiled and tried to hug her, but stopped just before my sweaty arms touched her. She glared at me.


    "Tch. You''re sweating all over and you want to hug me? Dream on. Take a shower first."


    She rolled her eyes and went to the fridge to get some water.


    "But honey, you know we cuddled like puppies last night and we''re both sticky-"


    "Keith Castillo, don''t you dare..."


    Her face was flushed as she glared at me. She was blushing and obviously embarrassed, but I knew she would get mad if I went overboard.


    Anyway, at least I won and teased her. I shrugged and took the glass of water.


    Then a sudden touch fell on my back and I twitched.


    "You''re really sweaty."


    Penelope murmured as she hugged me from behind. My skin was still wet, but she dared to hug me and put her face on my back.


    "I thought you hated sweat?"


    "Not when it''s you."


    "Wife..."


    "Husband..."


    We stayed like that for a second. Unfortunately, Sophia walked on all fours and greeted us.


    Penelope immediately pushed me away and I stumbled down the sofa. I was stunned. But knowing that little Sophia was right in front of us, I decided to hide my dissatisfaction.


    "Mommy! Dajjy! Can I have some snacks? I want to give Gwandma and Gwandpa candy! I want to meet my cousins too!"


    "Okay, sweetie, but make sure they don''t go to waste. Some candy melts in the sun."


    My wife smiled and rubbed Sophia''s head.


    "En!"


    The little baby nodded happily and returned to her room to pack her candies... Although I think Sophia only has a handful of candy. We have been careful to control the children''s diet, especially sweets.


    "Here!"


    Just as I expected, Sophia returned with seven pieces of candy. She beamed as she showed off her treats.


    "Good job sweetie, I''ll help you wrap them up later."


    "Yay!"


    When the baby was gone, Penelope turned to me and apologized.


    "Sorry. Did I hurt you? I was shocked because I didn''t want Sophia to see us hugging."


    "It''s okay. Honey, you know the kids don''t mind us hugging. Hugging is not bad anyway."


    "Still..."


    "Anyway, let''s pack our things so we can leave early tomorrow."


    "Okay."


    We planned to use two suitcases for this trip. Of course, since I''m the only adult male in the family, I''m the one who would be carrying the bags.


    My wife had already prepared the things we would bring, but they are still not packed, so I helped her put them into the luggage. Our clothes and the children''s clothes are perfectly packed into the luggage, there is no wasted space.


    I applaud my wife for successfully packing all our belongings into two bags.


    "It''s already 7:30, I think it''s time for the kids to go to sleep."


    "I''ll wait for you."


    Penelope is good at getting the kids to sleep. She knoww how to convince (threaten) them.


    Because sometimes the kids would get energetic at night, and then the next day they would be sleepy and sluggish.


    Whenever that happened, we both get worry.


    I tell you, two energetic children are too much for us. But two delicate sick children will break our hearts.


    I am amazed at how much patience Penelope has. I don''t even know how to get Sophia to eat her vegetables. Even Roman doesn''t obey when I tell him to stop playing. I guess they are not afraid of me.


    I respect my wife a lot. She is much better at taking care of the children than I am. After all, she is a mother.


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 RDD 19

    [Shout out to Andrew and BinRasas!]


    Chapter 19


    We finished packing. But just to be sure, we counted everything that was in the luggage so that we wouldn''t forget anything.


    "Toothbrushes?"


    "Here."


    "Underwear?"


    "All here, and Sophia''s diaper too."


    "Good~"


    Penelope stretched her arms up and groaned after completing our task. She was wearing a baggy T-shirt and shorts.


    I know that behind that baggy t-shirt was a nice figure and a pair of tits... Suddenly, I felt like I was going to get a hard-on.


    I looked at my wife and was about to tell her.


    "Honey--"


    "I''m going to look at the kids."


    Unfortunately, my wife didn''t see my frustration and left me in the room.


    "Haha."


    I chuckled robotically and looked down at my pants.


    "Sorry to disappoint you little guy, but we won''t have it today. Let''s be happy with what we got last night."


    Probably tonight and all week I will not have a chance to clap her cheeks. We are going to the countryside and I''m not sure if we will have our own room. My in-laws'' house was pretty big, but they have a big family too.


    I think some of their children still live there.


    When my junior heard what I said, he became depressed and went back to sleep.


    Since I have nothing to do, let''s check the system.


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    I already checked the mission section last time, so I decided to check the shop instead.


    ------------------------


    [Shop]


    (1)[Energy Pill(1 point): A man needs energy.


    (Current points: 3)


    -----------------------


    Huh? What does it mean?


    The shop had only one item, and it was something I was not expecting.


    A pill with a stupid description. I don''t even know what it means.


    Okay, let''s think about it for a second. The name of the item is ''Energy Pill''. Based on the name alone, I can deduce that it is an energy pill... Right?


    So this pill can give me energy, right?


    "Do I look like a weak guy?"


    I asked myself, and I know that I''m not. At least, I don''t think so.


    "This pill cost one point, should I try it?"


    I think it is not the right time to take it. It''s already night, and I feel like I won''t be able to sleep if I take this pill.


    "Let''s try it tomorrow. I wonder how much energy this pill can give me.


    We are going to the countryside tomorrow, and the trip will take 6-8 hours, depending on the traffic. Besides, we''ll leave early.


    I sat down and thought about our situation. The kids are getting older. Roman will start elementary next year and I have to find a good school for him. Of course, it will take money.


    When they grow up, they will have to have their own rooms.


    "I don''t even know if I can afford a house in this lifetime."


    In this country, houses and land are so expensive that ordinary families can''t afford them. Maybe that is why there are squatter and slum areas. People will occupy houses and land illegally. It is a common thing here.


    As a father and a husband, even though the children are still young, I''m already thinking about their future. It''s my duty to provide for them and give them a better life.


    Now I realized how hard it is to be a father.


    I feel like I am going to lose my hair just thinking about it.


    The pressure is real. I lay down on the bed and looked at the ceiling.


    A few minutes later, my wife came back and closed the door.


    "They are sleeping now. I also changed Sophia''s diaper."


    She said, lying down next to me.


    "You did a great job."


    "Thank you."


    She put her head on my shoulder and nuzzled me.


    "By the way, did you talk to Mrs. De Guzman about us going to the province for a week?"


    "Yes, I talked to her earlier."


    "About the rent..."


    "It''s okay, I already settled everything. You know Mrs. De Guzman is not a bad person."


    "Yes."


    "Then let''s sleep."


    We turned off the lamp and lay down next to each other. My wife''s arm landed on my stomach and hugged me.


    Wait a minute?


    "Honey, what are you doing?"


    "Hm."


    Penelope''s hand slowly moved down to my stomach. Then I almost jumped when I realized that her hand slid into my pants and stroked my cock over the boxer.


    "Honey?"


    I held my breath and turned to her.


    "Did you think I didn''t see that? You pervert."


    She giggled and continued to rub my cock.


    "We have to go to bed early, but it''s still 8 o''clock, I think we have enough time. What do you think?"


    She whispered in my ear and I shivered. Her hand was already in my boxer and stroking my cock. My shaft was getting harder and bigger.


    "... Okay."


    As if I would say no!


    "Fufu."


    [The following scenes are available on Webnovel and Scribblehub.]

 RDD 20-21

    [Shout out to Osmund Okorie, John, Hassan Nur, The Main Man, and Zavien King!]


    Chapter 21


    Early nutting is so embarrassing...


    Since we easily fell asleep after the ''exercise'', my wife and I didn''t have a problem waking up at 5 in the morning.


    Of course, when we woke up, my wife giggled when she found that I was still grumbling about what happened last night.


    We both went to the bathroom at the same time to wake up our groggy bodies. We have seen each other''s bodies before, we know almost every nook and cranny of each other''s bodies.


    So we were not embarrassed to be naked. In fact, we even help each other wash our backs. Bathing in cold water is the best way to start the day, in my opinion.


    What? Cold water is scary? No, we Filipinos are used to it. Hot showers are only for the weak and the rich...


    When we come out of the bathroom, we feel refreshed and awake.


    "I''ll wake up the kids."


    Penelope said after getting dressed.


    "Then I''ll make breakfast."


    There was leftover chicken from last night and I can just heat it up. As my wife entered the children''s room, I remembered something.


    Oh, I almost forgot. Let''s try the ''energy pill'' in the store. Maybe it can boost my energy.


    I thought and opened the System Shop. There was only one item I could buy, the Energy Pill. It only costs 1 point, so I did not feel bad about buying it.


    Now that I know that I can get a mission every day, the 30-minute exercise, I''m confident that I can earn that 1 point back.


    I smiled and clicked the buy button.


    A small pill materialized on my palm. It was a white pill, nothing strange about it.


    "I have to drink it, right?"


    Since the system is supposed to help me, I have to trust it. I believe this pill will not endanger me, but help me.


    I took a deep breath and put the pill in my mouth. With the help of a glass of water, I swallowed the pill.


    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    ... And I feel nothing at all.


    "Is that it?"


    Maybe it doesn''t work fast. Anyway, I don''t have time to dilly-dally, I have to prepare breakfast.


    When the children left the room, breakfast was already prepared for them to eat.


    Unlike us adults, we don''t force the children to take a cold bath. Especially Sophia, we washed her with warm water.


    "Let''s eat first, then your mother will help you take a bath."


    "Un..."


    Roman nodded reluctantly. As for Sophia, she was still snoring in her mother''s arms. She was half awake, I feel bad looking at my snoring daughter.


    Don''t worry baby, it won''t happen again. The circumstances are special this time and we have to get up early to get to the province before nightfall.


    "Honey, come on, take a bite. You like chicken, right?"


    Penelope was busy trying to persuade baby Sophia to eat. Fortunately, Sophia still obeyed and chewed her food, even though she was sleepy.


    Roman didn''t need to be spoon-fed, he ate with his hands just like me.


    "You have to eat too."


    I said to my wife, putting a chicken wing on her plate.


    "Hm, I will feed Sophia first."


    A few minutes later, we all finished eating. My wife took the children to the bathroom. We had already boiled water for the children.


    While they were bathing, I washed the dishes.


    "No~~ Mom~ cold~"


    "Stay still, sweetheart, you don''t want Mommy to be sad, right? Look at your big brother, he can wash by himself now."


    "But bwother is big, I''m small~"


    I heard Sophia''s desperate cry. I chuckled and let her mother take care of her. She is much better at this than I am.


    The children escaped the bathroom gritting their teeth and wrapped in towels.


    Children, you will realize that you have it better. Back then, there''s no gas stove to heat water. We used cold water everyday.


    Penelope took them to their room to put on their clothes. Since it was still cold outside, Penelope made sure they wore jackets to protect their bodies.


    "Phew."


    "You did a great job."


    I handed my exhausted wife a cup of coffee.


    "Sophia is getting wilder. She is unrestrained."


    My wife muttered after taking a sip.


    "Waking Roman up is exhausting too. Roman grumbled that he wanted to sleep more."


    She sighed. The kids really are a pain. Even a disciplined boy like Roman still had a problem getting up early.


    The kids were in good shape when we left the house, wrapped in their clothes. My wife really made sure they were comfortable on this cold morning.


    "Are you sure you can carry them? You can ask me if you need any help."


    "I''m fine."


    "That''s great...''


    I was surprised as I carried the two bags. They were heavy, but I feel that my body can carry them all day without getting tired.


    Is this the power of the Energy Pill?


    I casually carried the two bags without any problem. I can carry one more if I want to.


    Penelope carried baby Sophia. Roman was beside her, following her.


    "Let''s go."


    It didn''t take long until we were in a jeep. Since it was early, there was no traffic and the drive was smooth.


    We reached the bus station quickly.


    "You are going to Pangasinan? Good news, there is a bus going there."


    A good man helped us find the way and we found the bus.


    We boarded the bus and thank God there were enough seats for all of us.


    "Honey, how long do you think it will take us to get there?"


    "At best, we''ll be there before afternoon."


    "I hope so."


    The three of us sat together. Roman sat in the middle, while my wife sat by the window. As for Sophia, she was on her mother''s lap, watching the scene out the window.


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 RDD 22

    [Shout out to Mili Benitez, purified peek, and Endless_life!]


    Chapter 22


    Sophia is wide awake as she looks out the window. She is fascinated by the things she has seen. She is still a baby and unique things catch her interest.


    "Wow! Mommy, look! Bwig buildings! Tall! Bwig!"


    She excitedly spread her arms to show how big the buildings outside were.


    She thought our apartment building was already big. But the gigantic structures she found are much bigger than the apartment. She felt that her understanding of the world is expanding.


    "Wow~ Bwother! Big faces!"


    She said, pointing at the billboards that had the faces of models.


    "Hm."


    Roman nodded and looked around as well. The children never went on a long trip for years, especially Sophia . So they were excited to see new scenes.


    Unfortunately, the two kids lost interest as soon as they saw one infrastructure after another. The novelty faded quickly. Then they got bored and looked at their mother.


    "Mom, are we there yet?"


    Sophia asked. She didn''t like to stay in the same position for too long. She wanted to crawl and move. But the bus is different, we don''t dare let her lie on the floor.


    The bus stops and moves every two minutes and it is dangerous for the children.


    "Honey, you don''t have to worry. You just need to close your eyes for ten seconds and we will get there."


    Penelope teased baby Sophia''s nose.


    "Really?"


    "I''m telling the truth."


    Sophia seemed to believe her mother easily. She closed her eyes and counted from one to ten.


    I can''t believe my daughter can count from 1 to 10 when she''s not even two years old! My daughter is a genius!


    When she opened her eyes, she looked around. She was confused at first, but then she realized that her mother was playing with her.


    "Mommy, bad."


    "I wasn''t lying, you just have to count from 1 to 10 twenty times."


    You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    "Mommy, I can''t do it."


    She pouted.


    "It''s okay sweetie, you can do it when you get older."


    She stroked little Sophia''s head and the baby nodded reluctantly. She was bored and wanted to move around.


    "How about sitting with me, Sophia?"


    I can see that my wife is uncomfortable. Because Sophia was flattening her legs with her weight. Our baby is getting heavy.


    "En."


    Sophia was bored anyway, so she decided to change places.


    "Are you sure you can do it? You will carry the bags later."


    Penelope asked worriedly.


    "I''m fine. I feel like I never get tired. I can carry you if you want."


    It''s no problem. Besides, I can touch her ass if I carry her...


    "Huh! Arrogant."


    We both laughed.


    But I''m not kidding. I can run around all day and not get tired. The Energy Pill gave me the stamina to stay strong all day.


    This is a drug made by the system. I think there are no side effects, right?


    [System remarks: Energy Pill is safe to take. No negative effects. Can be taken every day].


    Nice.


    Who doesn''t like endless energy?


    Not me. Not Elon Musk.


    Penelope put Sophia on my lap instead. My wife took a breather after putting her daughter on my legs. Her legs went numb as she stretched them. She hissed after a nice stretch. Sophia is indeed getting heavier.


    "Dajjy, when will I see the ocean?"


    "Later, sweetie, you will see the blue sea."


    I calm her burning enthusiasm. My wife''s province was Dagupan, Pangasinan and it faced the sea. The main producer of milkfish in the region.


    My wife told stories about her hometown and Sophia was excited to see it. Unlike Roman, who had visited the province before, this was little Sophia''s first long trip.


    "But I want to see it now. I want to!!"


    As expected from a child, she was acting like a spoiled brat. Very unreasonable. Children are angels and devils at the same time, and it''s hard to change my mind.


    "Sophia, how about this, when we get there, I will buy you a toy. But you have to behave, can you promise Daddy that you will be a good girl?"


    The best way to pacify a child is to give her what she likes. In Sophia''s situation, she wants dolls.


    "What do you think? You want toys, right? I''m sure Barbie needs a friend. What''s your new toy''s name again?"


    "Her name is Aria. She is a pwincess from a faraway land."


    "I see. Then Aria must be lonely because she needs a friend. Maybe you can help her."


    "Yes. I want to give her fwiend Dajjy."


    "Of course, my little princess is a good girl. But I can only give you another Barbie doll if you behave, promise?"


    If we are talking about money. I have 9,000 pesos in my wallet, so buying another toy is not a problem.


    As for the other 10,000, it''s in my wife''s hands. We made sure to split the money in case of robbery.


    After what happened last month, when I almost lost my life in a carjacking, my wife and I became aware of the bad elements. It''s better to be prepared than to lose all the money.


    "Yes! I pwomise! I''ll be a good girl."


    "As expected from my little princess."


    I patted her head and she giggled. She hugged me, but her small arms could only hug my chest.


    Penelope looked at us and nodded. She seemed to like the way I was making our daughter behave.


    "Yay! New toy."


    "What about me?"


    Then Roman joined in and looked at me. He wanted another toy, too.


    "If you behave, I will buy you a toy too."


    "Okay."


    A few hours later, I could feel the kids getting restless.


    Fortunately, whenever I feel that they are about to crack, I use my trump card to calm them down.


    "Kids, remember, you can only have toys if you behave."


    When I say this, the two children immediately shut their mouths and hold on. They sat still and made no noise.


    Thank God...


    Unfortunately, a piercing scream disturbed my wife and me.


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 RDD 23

    Chapter 23


    "Waaaa!! Mama!! Mama!"


    A loud scream from behind us caught our attention. A little girl was crying for some unknown reason.


    "Hm?"


    Sophia was the only one looking back. She saw a little baby just like her crying.


    "Dajjy, she''s cwying, she''s sad."


    "That''s right sweetie."


    "She''s not mature at all. Pwathetic."


    "..."


    I almost choked when I heard what she said. Sophia was smiling as she watched the little baby behind us make a scene. She looked like she was having fun.


    The other passengers looked at the baby and some of them were irritated. It was still early and they were disturbed by a loud, irritating cry.


    The mother apologized to the passengers as she tried to calm her baby.


    As for Sophia, she found it entertaining.


    "Don''t worry, Dajjy, I''ll be good. I want a new fwiend for Aria."


    "That''s good to hear, sweetheart."


    Now that Sophia understood that it was annoying to cry. She promised to be a good girl.


    "That''s my princess, muah!"


    "Dajjy, your beard tickles my face!"


    I kissed her forehead, but Sophia giggled as she pushed me away. I hadn''t shaved in a month and more stubble was growing on my chin. They prickled Sophia when I kissed her.


    "I''m so proud of you, baby, you know how to be a good girl. When we get to Dagupan, Pangasinan, I will find you a beautiful Barbie."


    I''m sure I can find it in the provincial market. I traveled back to 1999, but I''m sure every town has at least one market.


    Pangasinan is not a backward place, they have infrastructure.


    Hours passed and the sun was shining in the sky again. The kids are tired of looking out the window.


    Three hours have passed and we are now in Bulacan... Still far from Pangasinan.


    It was a blessing that we didn''t have to take a boat or a plane to get to Pangasinan. Plane/boat tickets are expensive. Tickets for a family of four would cost thousands of pesos.


    The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.


    Sophia happily talked to her Barbie doll. She didn''t care if the other passengers looked at her. Of course, since she was sitting on my lap, I had to join in the fun.


    And now I''m talking to ''Aria'' too.


    "Dajjy, say hello to Pwincess Aria."


    "Your Highness, it''s a pleasure to meet you."


    To make sure Sophia didn''t get bored, I did my best to entertain her.


    "Dajjy, Pwincess Aria said you are ugly. Please don''t talk to her with your filthy mouth, peasant."


    "..."


    What can I say? My daughter is really smart! She knows what a peasant means!


    "Baby, where did you learn that word ''peasant''?"


    "I heard it on TV, Mommy likes to watch soap operas."


    She answered me innocently.


    I turned to my wife and she was embarrassed. It seemed that she did not know that Sophia was learning bad things from television.


    "I was watching a drama about a poor woman who married a prince charming. But the rival rich woman showed up and kept saying that the poor woman was a lowly peasant... Sophia probably learned that from that drama. I will not watch it with her again."


    Penelope declared with blushing cheeks. Then she looked at Sophia.


    "Honey, you can''t say that word again."


    "Why?"


    "Because it''s a bad word."


    "But the rich lady on the TV can say it."


    As expected, television is bad for children. They can learn inappropriate things if we leave them unsupervised. If they are going to watch television, we must stay and counsel them. Parental guidance is a must.


    "Still, you have to promise Mommy."


    "Okay, Mommy."


    Sophia didn''t understand, but she agreed anyway. In her opinion, "peasant" was not a bad word. The rich lady was just being honest.


    "..."


    "Roman, are you okay? You look pale."


    Suddenly my wife noticed that our son was quiet. But unlike the usually quiet Roman, he was pale and looked weak.


    Penelope touched his forehead to take his temperature. Fortunately, he seemed fine.


    "Are you feeling sick, honey?"


    She asked worriedly.


    "Mom... My stomach is churning. I feel like I''m going to throw up what I ate earlier."


    "You have motion sickness?"


    "Hm."


    Roman nodded.


    Unlike baby Sophia, who was used to being gently rocked and shaken(rock-a-bye) by her mother. Roman was not used to the constant shaking of the bus.


    It was understandable since this was his first bus ride in two years. Maybe his body could not keep up.


    "Bwother, don''t you feel well?


    "Hm."


    "Why are you pwathetic too?"


    Sophia sighed as she realized that she was the only strong one in the family. She was even stronger than her brother. As expected from Sophia.


    "..."


    Roman kept his mouth shut. He was afraid that he would vomit if he spoke.


    "I have flavored candy here, you can eat it to calm your mind."


    Penelope was relieved to know it was not a serious problem. At least it was motion sickness, nothing serious. Anyone can get motion sickness.


    Roman had a fever last week and Penelope was still worried about his health.


    "Thank you, Mom."


    He accepted the candy and chewed it while closing his eyes. He was not weak enough to succumb to motion sickness, he had to overcome it! Or else Sophia would make fun of him!


    Fortunately, the highway was smooth and there were no potholes. The bus didn''t bounce much.


    Another hour passed and our bus stopped at the Pampanga terminal.


    "Dajjy? Are we there yet?"


    Realizing that the bus had stopped, sleepy Sophia asked me again.


    "You can go back to sleep baby, we''re still not there."


    I sighed. Even I was getting bored. My body is full of energy, but I can''t move. I can only sit...


    "Okay..."


    The sleepy Sophia yawned and continued to sleep on my shoulder.


    As for my wife and Roman, they went to the terminal to get some fresh air. The bus would stay here and collect passengers for 10 minutes before leaving. I stayed on the bus to make sure we had seats before the bus take off.


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 RDD 24

    [Shout out to Jacob Barna, Magnus Branz¨¦n, and Samson Aguino!]


    Chapter 24


    While the bus remained at the terminal, vendors selling food entered the bus. They have baskets on their arms. The baskets are filled with crackers, mineral water, and other products that the passengers need.


    "Peanuts! Coke! Corn! We have everything here!"


    I respect the hustle. These people are doing their best to sell their products, carrying heavy baskets. They even go so far as to change their intonation to attract customers.


    "pEaNuTs~ Coooorrrrnnn~ Buy!!!"


    Even in another universe, the hustle never stops.


    The old bus terminals might be infested with these vendors selling various things. Hell, I even saw a person selling live baby chicklings.


    "Hm..."


    Sophia, who was sleeping in my arms, grumbled when the vendors started yelling. She weakly opened her eyes and rubbed her face.


    "Dajjy... I want cown."


    Cown = Corn.


    I don''t know what magic I used to understand that.


    "Okay, baby."


    I pulled ten pesos out of my wallet and asked the vendor for corn.


    "Can I have a corn?"


    "That will be 10 pesos, sir."


    "Here."


    "Thank you very much."


    The corn is warm, almost hot.


    "Honey, you have to be careful. Don''t eat it too fast or you might get burned."


    I cut the corn in half and gave her half. I know Sophia could not eat whole corn. She didn''t have the appetite or the ability. Her stomach is still small. Her little hands grabbed it and munched on it.


    "Yes. Thank you Dajjy."


    She smiled and nibbled on it.


    As for me, I decided to eat the other half. Nobody could finish it anyway. My wife didn''t like to eat during the trip and Roman suffered from motion sickness.


    A few minutes later, Penelope and Roman returned from the bathroom. Roman''s complexion improved, he didn''t look pale anymore. Maybe he threw up in the bathroom.


    If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Also, he was happily hugging a Gundam... Wait, what?


    My eyes went to Penelope, I''m a little confused. Where did the Gundam come from?


    "We found a store that sells toys. Since we promised the kids to buy them toys, I might as well buy them now."


    I nod.


    "This is for Sophia."


    "Yay!"


    Penelope took out a Barbie doll and handed it to Sophia. The little girl immediately regained her enthusiasm. Her sleepy face came alive as she hugged the Barbie doll.


    The Barbie doll looked just like the one I bought last time, except for the dress.


    As long as the kids are happy, I''m fine.


    "I wuv you, Mommy!"


    "That''s my princess."


    Penelope took Sophia from my arms and sat her on her lap.


    "You don''t look tired, but I know Sophia is heavy. Let''s help each other, I''ll give her to you when I can''t handle her anymore."


    She looked at me and explained. She knew how hard it is to carry Sophia, so she decided to ease my burden.


    But to be honest, Sophia didn''t bother me at all. Sure, she is heavy, but the Energy Pill the System gave me is far more powerful. I feel like I can carry Sophia without getting tired.


    "Okay."


    Still, I accepted her goodwill. My wife really cares for me and Sophia.


    "Yay! Mommy I like you bwetter, Dajjy''s beard tickles me!"


    "Fufu, is that so?"


    "Yesh!"


    Penelope giggled and pinched her cheeks. Sophia didn''t care and decided to check out her new toy.


    No matter what they say, children don''t tell lies. And it hurts me to hear it from her.


    Ugh!


    I swallowed a groan. My daughter will probably be a heartbreaker. She will break many men''s hearts. There is dark energy behind her pretty face.


    Still, my daughter is adorable.


    Children prefer their mothers than their fathers, that is the usual situation. Penelope is a loving and caring mother. She is ready to sacrifice everything for our children. I witness how she takes care of our children.


    She deserves all the love. In fact, it would be devastating if Sophia chose me over her mother. Because in my opinion, Penelope is the best.


    "Who''s my sweet daughter?"


    "Me!"


    "That''s right."


    I smiled as I looked at my daughter and my wife. They look alike. They resemble each other, except that Sophia has inherited my deep blue eyes.


    "..."


    Then I looked down and saw my son playing with his Gundam. He is fascinated by the weapons the Gundam has. Guns, swords, a pair of wings, this Gundam looks really cool...


    I''m actually jealous and remember my childhood.


    In the early 2000s, Gundams are more famous than Transformers. Maybe the kids back then were heavily influenced by Gundam Wings and other Gundam franchises.


    I think Transformers became famous after the first live-action movie was released. That was around 2007.


    Ah, the good old days, when the Internet didn''t influence kids that much. I miss those days.


    Well, I''m back in 1999, so I''m going to experience it again. Not as a child, but as an adult. As a father.


    Luckily, Penelope and Roman came back just before the driver returned. Our trip continued, but the kids were not bored anymore.


    They played with their toys. They didn''t care about the surroundings, too absorbed in their worlds.


    "Do you think brother is already there?"


    Sophia spoke to me.


    "It''s okay, I texted your brother earlier and told him that we''re still in Pampanga."


    "I see."


    Sophia has a lot of siblings and the one who''s going to welcome us is her second brother, Simeon. My brother-in-law has a tricycle and he can take us to their village.


    I don''t know if it''s hard to find transportation in their place.


    I grabbed my wife''s hand and squeezed it.


    "I''ll text him again when we get there."


    "Hm, thank you."


    She leaned in and kissed my cheek.


    I knew it, all I have to do is make her happy and I got a kiss!


    It took us 8 hours to reach Pangasinan. It was already 3 p.m. when we arrived in the province. What greeted us was the endless plain of rice paddies and cornfields.


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 RDD 25

    [Shout out to Cosmicuni!]


    Chapter 25


    "Dajjy! Look!"


    While I was deep in thought, my daughter shouted and pointed out the window. I turned to the window and saw the vast rice and corn fields.


    There were fields on both sides of the street. They were almost boundless, except for a few trees and "Kubo" houses.


    Kubo are indigenous houses in the Philippines. They are made of wood, bamboo, and nipa grass. I can say that they are a unique type of house.


    "Dajjy! The fields are so wide!"


    Sophia was fascinated as she looked at the rice fields.


    Is this the old Dagupan before the year 2000?


    I asked, knowing that this landscape will disappear. Most of the farmland will be turned into subdivisions. What I''m seeing now is a piece of history, I guess.


    Especially the lands next to the national highway. They would turn into buildings and infrastructure. This natural scene would be gone, and I inadvertently sighed.


    "We''re here."


    My wife murmured and smiled. This was where she grew up. I could see the happiness in her eyes as the tears gathered. Maybe she really loves her hometown.


    "Dagupan."


    The bus conductor said, stopping in front of a waiting shed.


    My wife signaled that it was time to get off the bus.


    Using my strength, I easily carried the bags and got off the bus. My wife and children followed me. The bus moved again and gradually disappeared.


    Now our family was left alone in the middle of the road, surrounded by rice and corn fields.


    "Mommy, is this where our food came from?"


    Sophia asked her mother. She was still amazed at the scenery.


    "Yes, baby, that''s why you need to be thankful for the food you eat. The farmers work hard to provide it for you."


    "Wow..."


    Penelope and I chuckled when we saw Sophia''s expression.


    "..."


    As for Roman, he was quietly looking at the field. He saw some farmers helping a buffalo to plow the field.


    Tractors are expensive and poor farmers prefer to use buffaloes to plow the land. Besides, these farmers are plowing a small plot of land, so it''s probably not a problem.


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    The buffalo are the most economical animals on the land. You can ride them, you can eat them, and you can use them for farming.


    "..."


    Roman is not used to seeing a real buffalo.


    "Mom, are we going to help them?"


    Roman asked a silly question. He felt bad for the farmers who work so hard. After hearing that what we eat comes from the farmers, he wanted to show his gratitude.


    Unfortunately, I know the answer.


    Of course not, your mother is used to household chores, but plowing the land is exhausting.


    "Mom?"


    Roman asked curiously, but with no hope of an answer. Penelope would probably disagree.


    I shook my head too.


    "Maybe we can help them."


    "Huh?"


    I was stunned by what I heard. I turned to Penelope who was looking at the farmers. It seemed she was not joking.


    Honey! What are you talking about? It''s a hard job to plow the land! Can''t you see they''re wearing rubber boots and straw hats?


    Then I realized one thing, my wife comes from a family of farmers. She probably experienced the hard life of working on the farm.


    Penelope smiled, remembering the past.


    "But not today, of course. Once we get to your grandparents'' house, we can help them with the farming."


    She smiled and I sighed with relief.


    Thank God.


    Am I a coward for being afraid of farm work? No.


    I took an Energy Pill and I''m confident in my strength. But I don''t want to see my children doing hard work. I would rather work ten times harder than see my children panting and tired.


    Sophia and Roman will probably play around instead of helping, they are children after all.


    "Honey, when do you think brother will arrive?"


    "I texted him ten minutes ago, I''m sure he''ll be here."


    Actually, there was a city 2 kilometers ahead of this waiting shed. However, our destination was not the city but the countryside.


    There was a road that would take us to the countryside. It was a small road and only two vehicles could fit on it at the same time.


    Beep beep!


    Just as we expected, a honking sound greeted us. A man with short pink hair got out of the tricycle and greeted us.


    "Penelope!"


    "Brother Simeon!"


    My wife ran to hug her brother. They were both happy to see each other. Penelope even wiped away her tears. She really missed this place and her family.


    "Roman, how are you? You are growing into a handsome boy."


    "Uncle."


    Simeon stroked his hair and Roman nodded. He still remembered his uncle.


    "And Keith. You look old, haha."


    "I didn''t have time to shave my beard. Good to see you again."


    "Me too!"


    We shook hands and laughed.


    "..."


    As for my daughter...


    Sophia looked at her uncle with confusion and shyness. After all, she didn''t know him.


    "Brother, this is my daughter. Sophia Castillo."


    Penelope introduced Sophia.


    "I see. She looks just like you. Hi Sophia, I''m your uncle. You can call me Uncle Simeon."


    He held out his hand and Sophia reluctantly mano''ed it.


    "Hello, Uncle..."


    "Haha. She is just like you when you were young."


    He laughed. I guess he was surprised. Almost as if he traveled into the past and saw a young Penelope.


    "Well, let''s talk on the way."


    "Thank you, brother."


    We got into the tricycle. The tricycle took a left turn to reach the countryside.


    Then we can clearly see the rice paddies and crops because they are close to the road. Our eyes watched the vast green land and were amazed by it.


    Even the birds are singing.


    "Look, woah!"


    I immediately looked at Sophia whose eyes were shining with joy. She was pointing at something.


    At first, I thought she was pointing at the river that ran alongside the road. I quickly turned around to see that there was nothing there... Ah.


    She was pointing to the sky, where a beautiful rainbow was shining in the clear blue sky.


    [Hi, I just want to promote my other novels:]


    1) MC is not part of the story


    - This novel is already finished with 526 chapters.


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    -This is a new novel. A slow progressive slice of life about a deadbeat dad.


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    - Mc returned to Hollywood in 1994.


    [I post my novels mostly on Scribblehub, Webnovel, RoyalRoad and Questionable Questing].

 RDD 26

    [Shout out to Adam LV, Albert A, and Scott D!]


    Chapter 26


    A trail of ducks crossed the street and the tricycle started to move.


    "Mommy, I want a ducky. Like Donawd Duck."


    The innocent girl said. She fell in love at the adorable ducklings following their mother.


    "Honey, let''s talk about it later."


    "Okay."


    Penelope knew that Sophia''s attention shifted easily. This adoration for the ducklings would be forgotten. If not, Penelope would think about it then.


    After all, ducks taste good too...


    The rural area was quite far from the highway, and the endless plain of rice fields was beginning to bore the children. Seeing it for the first time might be a novelty to them. But once they got used to seeing the fields, they quickly got tired. Sometimes we would see a clump of trees blocking the sun.


    An hour later, we began to see houses. The children got excited again. They saw houses and children playing in the river.


    "..."


    Even Roman turned to Penelope, his eyes shining.


    Penelope just giggled. She too had memories of swimming in the river. Fortunately, the river in their village was not polluted. The water was clean and the fish lived freely.


    "We are here."


    Simeon stopped the tricycle in front of an old house made of wood and bricks. It looked like a house from the Spanish colonization. But the house was big, almost three times the size of our apartment. It even had a second floor.


    "..."


    Penelope had a melancholy expression on her face. However, I could see the happiness in her eyes. She missed her home so much.


    "I''m back."


    She wiped the tears from her eyes. The place where she grew up, where happy memories were made.


    I patted her shoulder and kissed her head. She looked at me and smiled.


    "Mommy don''t cwy... Sophia will cwy too."


    The daughter in her arms grew sad.


    "Silly, I''m fine."


    She giggled and kissed Sophia''s forehead.


    "Let''s go."


    We approached the house together, quite excited.


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    "Brother-in-law, do you need help with the bags? They look heavy."


    Simeon looked at the bags I was carrying. He had parked his tricycle next to the house and thought I was carrying heavy bags.


    "I''m fine. They''re not heavy at all."


    I shook my head. Because of the Energy Pill, even if the bags are heavy, my arms did not feel weak or tired. At least I''m confident that I can carry more.


    Suddenly, the door opened and an old man and woman came out. When they saw Penelope holding a child, the old couple was delighted.


    "Penelope!"


    "Mother! I miss you!"


    My mother-in-law, Corazon Vidalia, walked faster and almost burst into tears. She looked back and forth between Penelope and Sophia. She was stunned to see the strong resemblance between mother and child.


    "I- Is that my granddaughter!? She looks just like you! Oh my God!"


    "Yes, Mother."


    Penelope sniffed, holding back her tears.


    "Awww, what a sweet child."


    My mother-in-law, Corazon, held out her arms and Penelope let her carry Sophia.


    Sophia looked curiously at her grandmother. She had heard her voice on the phone. But this was the first time she had met her.


    My mother-in-law has white hair because of her age. But I heard she had pink hair when she was younger. Penelope and Sophia probably inherited their features from her.


    She has wrinkles around her eyes, but she didn''t look ugly, she looked calm and mature. Even though she works under the sun as a farmer, my mother-in-law has fair skin, not dark at all.


    "Do you remember me? I''m your grandmother, we spoke on the phone last time."


    "Hm, hello gwandma. You look more beautiful than I expected. Just like the faiwy godmother in Cindewella."


    "That... I don''t know what Cindewella is. But as expected, my granddaughter is the best!"


    My mother-in-law giggled. Sophia touched her inner heart and she immediately fell in love with the child.


    "..."


    I don''t know what to say, it seemed that Sophia has a way with people''s hearts.


    Children don''t tell lies, they say.


    While Sophia, Penelope, and Corazon were talking. My father-in-law approached me and looked at the bags in my hands.


    "Let''s put these in the house. How''s your trip going here?"


    Unlike his wife, my father-in-law, whose name is Alberto, has dark brown skin and white hair. He is tall, almost 6 feet.


    Although he is over 60 years old, he looks strong and healthy. Perhaps that is the advantage of being a farmer. They have strong bodies and strong immune systems.


    "The trip was smooth. Fortunately, we arrived before evening.


    It was good that we left the house early in the morning. We didn''t get stuck in traffic. I know Manila enough to understand that traffic is relatively common.


    I sighed. Even in an alternate universe, traffic problems are still alive and well in our country''s capital. EDSA IS BLOATED AS HELL.


    "That''s good to hear."


    Alberto helped me show the way to our room. It looks like we''ll be living in a single room, which is good. We can watch over our children.


    As for the ''cuddling'' with my wife, let''s hold on for a week or two.


    "Thank you, father-in-law."


    "It''s okay."


    He patted my shoulder and I unconsciously jumped. Maybe my body remembered what happened last time.


    I had been punched in the face around two years ago by Alberto. By the time we got back to Manila, I had a black eye.


    Well, if I were in his shoes, I''d probably be angry too.


    Anyway, we''re all fine now. Alberto apologized. We even drank coconut palm liquor (lambanog).


    Unfortunately, I promised my wife that I would never touch alcohol again. So once my father-in-law invites me to drink, I have to refuse.


    After putting the bags on the bed, I went out of the room and found my family warming up with Corazon.


    Sophia was giggling as her grandmother carried her. I was worried at first because my mother-in-law was old.


    But when I saw Corazon carrying Sophia with no problem, I knew she would be fine.


    "Roman, you are getting taller. You''re getting more handsome!"


    "Thank you, Grandma."


    Roman held it in as Corazon pinched his cheeks.


    "Mother, let me help you carry Sophia. You said your back was hurting lately."


    "Who said that? No, I''m strong as a cow!"


    She said as she rocked Sophia.


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 RDD 27

    [Shout out to tirily19!]


    Chapter 27


    The children''s meeting with their grandparents went well. Especially Sophia, she got a lot of hugs from her grandmother. Almost like Sophia was Corazon''s daughter.


    As for Penelope, she was just happy to watch her mother and daughter.


    "The room was already cleaned. We prepared it for you."


    Alberto (father-in-law) said and handed me a cigarette. I didn''t know what to say. I just shook my head and smiled bitterly.


    ... Ah, the taste of smoke. I miss it. Besides, it''s Marlboro Black.


    Fortunately, I didn''t have any withdrawal symptoms.


    "What''s the matter? You don''t smoke anymore?"


    Alberto and Simeon looked at me in surprise. They didn''t seem to believe that I had quit smoking.


    "Yes, I promised my wife that I would stop smoking and drinking."


    I explained, and then my wife joined in.


    "Father, you must not invite Keith to a drinking session. Do you understand? My husband is trying to change."


    She glared at her father. Earlier she had cried and hugged him. But now she looked at him as if he was an enemy.


    "Is that so? Ahem."


    My father-in-law coughed embarrassedly. He looked at Simeon, and whispered something.


    "Give the coconut palm liquor (lambanog) to your brother. I think he likes it."


    "What? But I thought you wanted to give it to Keith?"


    "Can''t you see he stopped drinking? Just give it to your brother. I will find another gift for Keith."


    "Okay, Father."


    I think they were whispering about the gift, but I can''t hear them clearly.


    Alberto coughed after talking to Simeon and turned to me. He awkwardly put the tasty Marlboro back in the box.


    "So Keith, how''s your job? I heard that car thefts are getting out of hand, you''re a taxi driver, right? - Penelope, why are you looking at me like that?"


    My father-in-law stiffened when he realized his daughter was staring at him again. I guess he didn''t know that I was involved in a car theft and almost died.


    "I''m fine, Alberto. I just got my bonus and the management has been good to me."


    Of course they were good. Because I didn''t make a fuss at that time.


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    "That''s good. I can see it very well. The children''s toys look expensive. It''s nice that you take good care of the children. But you also have to save money. The children will grow up and need money for their education.


    He began to talk about philosophical things.


    And for the third time, Penelope looked at him.


    "Penelope..."


    "Father, the toys are not that expensive. They only cost 200 pesos at the most. We have also saved money for the children. We don''t spend the money carelessly."


    "What? 200 pesos!? These toys cost 200 pesos!? Hell, I better make a wooden sword instead. At least it will cost nothing."


    He huffed. Alberto was brought up to live frugally. 200 pesos might be a lot for farmers.


    "But of course..."


    He looked at the children. Sophia giggled as her grandmother carried her. Roman played with his Gundam.


    "As long as the kids are okay."


    He smiled. He was glad to see his grandchildren.


    "Roman, do you like swords? How about guns?"


    If you heard these questions out of context, it could lead to misunderstandings. But I know what Alberto meant.


    "Yes, Grandpa. I like both."


    "Good, then I will make you a sword and a gun."


    "Thank you, Grandpa."


    Alberto nodded and patted his grandson on the head. The last time he had seen Roman, he had been just a little boy.


    Even when he was young, Roman was always calm and collected. Maybe that is why Alberto likes him. Unlike other children who run around and make trouble, Roman is quiet and mature.


    "Let''s prepare dinner. Your brothers and sisters will be back later."


    "Yes, Father."


    Penelope stood up and decided to help them prepare dinner. Of course I helped too.


    Then I remembered something...


    "Let''s chop wood."


    "Okay."


    Her family didn''t use gas. It is expensive. Stoves and gas tanks are expensive, so they prefer to use wood.


    I followed Simeon to the back of the house. The wood was already dry, we just have to cut it into smaller pieces.


    "So how''s your work?"


    Simeon asked as he picked up the axe and asked me about our life in Manila.


    "Everything is fine. Roman is in kindergarten. The teachers say he is smart. He must have inherited his IQ from his mother."


    "Yes. Out of all of us, only Penelope went to college. Hehe, I''m ashamed to say it, but our grades in high school are disappointing. We didn''t take the chance to study hard."


    -- Chop!


    He successfully cut the log in half, and I grabbed another log for him to chop. Of course, my job is to help Simeon; even if I wanted to chop wood, Simeon would probably stop me.


    We are the guests who have just arrived at the house. Simeon thinks we are tired. Unfortunately, he is wrong. The Energy Pill keeps me active.


    -- Chop!


    "Simeon, about the land. Why did father-in-law and mother-in-law want to sell it?"


    I was curious. I only heard a few things from Penelope. I think there are more reasons.


    "I hope I''m not overstepping boundaries."


    "Of course not, you''re already part of the family."


    "Thank you."


    Simeon is the second brother of the family, and he''s the one I''m close to. I have only met the other siblings once. To be honest, I don''t even remember all of them.


    Except for that certain woman... I can''t believe that Penelope will have a sister like her.


    "If you''re talking about the land, Father and Mother want to sell it because no one wants to inherit the farm. I work as a tricycle driver and I make good money. Unlike farming, where I burn my skin to char."


    He smiled bitterly.


    "I remembered the time when I was young. We harvested our grain and sold it to the businessmen. The looks they gave us were heartbreaking, I feel like they don''t see us as people. They didn''t even pay us right..."


    "..."


    "I can understand why my brothers and sisters don''t want to take over the land. They want to sell it instead. I don''t blame them. It was an honest job. But at this time when many industries are flourishing, they chose the easy ones."


    I read an article that in 2022, Filipino farmers only earn 13,000 pesos per month. That was the equivalent of $236. A very small amount for an important job.


    Brother Simeon may be right, no one wants to be a farmer in this country.


    That''s why many people from the provinces risked their lives to go to Manila instead of plowing the land.


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 RDD 28

    [Shout out to Alexis L. and Matthew!]


    Chapter 28


    "The man who wants to buy our land is a foreigner. He says he wants to build a resort."


    Dagupan was near the sea. Many resorts are being built in the area.


    "But I''m not really sure. I think he wants to build a fish, shrimp, or crawfish farm. He has already bought the other fields. With his money, he can dig a tunnel to the sea to get salt water. I don''t know, it''s just hearsay."


    It might be physically possible, but tunneling would cost a lot of money. Maybe it all depends on the buyer.


    "Father and mother want to retire, they are getting old. I told them they could raise ducks, chickens, and goats instead. At least it''s not as tiring as plowing land."


    He chopped more logs as I nodded. Goats, chickens, and ducks would be profitable.


    A few minutes later, we returned to the kitchen and they were already cooking rice.


    Tonight the family decided to cook their three ducks. Penelope''s siblings would return to the house. They have a lot of stomachs to feed.


    "Honey, can you take Roman and Sophia to their room?" I looked at my wife.


    "Okay. I also need to change Sophia''s diaper."


    "Let me help you."


    Corazon joined them in the room.


    Killing ducks in front of the kids might be bad. I know Sophia would cry if she saw the ducks die. Fortunately, Penelope understood what I was saying.


    "Keith, hold the duck."


    Alberto is already holding a sharp knife.


    I followed his order and held the duck. I will not describe it faithfully. Let''s just say that Alberto cut the duck''s neck and let it bloodlet.


    We repeated this process on the two other ducks. We soaked them in hot water for a few minutes.


    Then we pulled out their feathers and cleaned them. After that, the process was easy. We just cut them into pieces and stew them.


    "Grandpa, it smells good!" Sophia returned more enthusiastically.


    "It does. Would you like to take a sip?"


    You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    "En!"


    Sophia was adapting easily to her grandparents. And now she was acting cute in front of them.


    Her clothes were new and clean. It was good that she had slept on the bus earlier. So she had enough energy to stay awake even though it was past 5 pm.


    "How about you Roman?"


    "I want to."


    "You can tell me if you want anything, don''t be shy."


    "Thank you, Grandpa."


    Roman doesn''t talk much, but he is very attentive. He is also a mature child.


    "Dad, can I play Snake?"


    "..."


    I chuckled and gave him my phone. In this era, Nokia overtook the market because of Snake and Space Impact.


    I''m not even kidding. People love to play those games.


    For a third-world country, PSP, Gameboy, and Xbox are just for rich kids. But Nokia phones are versatile. You can use them for calls, texts, and games!


    That''s why Nokia is the best brand at this time.


    Unfortunately, Nokia fucked up. The company failed to adapt to the smartphone era. In the next two decades, their brand would lose its beauty.


    "Snake? What are you talking about? Keith, you need to tell your son that playing with a snake is dangerous."


    Alberto looked worried as he cooked the duck stew. He didn''t have an idea about games. I guess he used Simeon''s phone to contact us.


    "It''s a game, Father."


    Penelope giggled when she realized her father had misunderstood.


    "Grandpa, would you like to watch me play? I''m good at it."


    This time Roman was excited. He was proud to say that he had beaten his best records a dozen times.


    "This looks interesting, let me see. Simeon, keep cooking."


    "I can help Father." Penelope tried to join in, but Alberto stopped her.


    "No, let your brother do it. Tch, your brother is already 43 years old and still single. He needs to work hard to get a wife. Teaching him how to cook will help him."


    Damn.


    "..."


    Simeon almost choked on his father''s banter.


    That''s right, Simeon is 47 years old and he''s the second child...


    Now that I think about it. My father-in-law and mother-in-law are in their 60s. That means that Simeon was conceived when they were in their early 20s at best...


    People in those days got married at a young age, before their 20s. If I''m not mistaken, my in-laws married before they were 18.


    That might be a normal situation back then, especially in the 50s and 60s. People get married at a young age.


    Hell, even my grandparents were married before they were 20. It is what it is.


    All I can say to Simeon is, "Let him cook!"


    "Mom! We''re here! Where''s the food?"


    Suddenly, our little conversation was interrupted when we heard a certain voice.


    Corazon frowned, while Alberto and Simeon shook their heads. As for Penelope, she had a complicated look on her face.


    The envious woman is here...


    "Se?orita, you''ve come. How are you?"


    Corazon greeted her.


    "Ah, exhausting as always. I only sold a few cabbages. To hell with that customer! Also, my son ate my lunch. So I can''t control myself and pinched him."


    "Watch your language."


    "Bah! Anyway, what about the food? We''re going to be rich anyway, might as well kill the goat!"


    "The goat will be cooked tomorrow for Christmas Eve."


    Alberto sighed. As if this scene happened more than once.


    "Today, tomorrow, who cares? By the way, my husband will be back later, leave him some food."


    The woman had dark skin, but her hair was also pink.


    "Mom, I want to eat. I''m hungry."


    The little boy next to her asked her for food.


    "Shut up, you just ate my lunch and you are still hungry? You will not eat dinner."


    "That''s because you didn''t give me breakfast..."


    "Ah, now you''re talking back. This child..." She grabbed her slipper to slap him, but Corazon stopped her.


    "Se?orita, don''t talk to your son like that. Billy, come on, I have some sweet potatoes."


    "Thank you, Grandma."


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 RDD 29

    [Shout out to Israel C!]


    Chapter 29


    Penelope and I returned to Pangasinan three years ago. Many things happened, but in our case, it was a good thing.


    Penelope reconciled with her family and their relationship strengthened. Alberto (father-in-law) and Corazon (mother-in-law) even fell in love with Roman.


    However, there was one incident that stuck in my mind. When we returned three years ago, there was a middle-aged woman who argued with Penelope.


    It was Se?orita, Penelope''s older sister. The woman kept saying hurtful things. But Penelope took it all in stride because she loved her family.


    In fact, I almost hit the woman. If not because of Penelope, I might have caused a scene. I may have gotten a black eye, but I can fight.


    It was different from Alberto''s punch, which I accepted. I was wrong and I took responsibility for what I''d done. I got my wife pregnant and we ran away from our parents.


    I understood Alberto''s feelings, so I accepted all of his blows. That''s what it means to be a man.


    But Se?orita was different. She was the most horrible person I ever met, she made Penelope cry and kneel.


    Penelope had many siblings, and out of all of them, I remember only Simeon and Se?orita. The latter was for negative reasons.


    If there was anyone I didn''t want to see again, it was probably Se?orita.


    "Grandma, who are they?"


    The young, skinny boy named Billy was confused when he realized that there were unknown people in the kitchen. He was young when he met us two years ago and maybe he didn''t remember us.


    "Billy, it''s your aunt and uncle. Say hello to them."


    "Hello."


    He mumbled weakly. But his eyes were on Roman, who was playing Snake on my Nokia.


    "..."


    "Do you want to eat? The stew is ready."


    Alberto handed him a plate of rice and duck stew.


    "Yes, Grandpa."


    He said and ran away after accepting the dish. Maybe he went back to his room to eat alone.


    "Tch, that kid. He already ate and forgot me. He didn''t even ask me if I wanted to eat."


    Stolen story; please report.


    "Se?orita, that''s your son."


    "So what?"


    We can hear their conversation, especially with Se?orita''s loud, irritating voice.


    "He''s just a child. You should be more tolerant. Besides, he said he didn''t have breakfast. He is hungry."


    "Tch, if I can''t eat, then he shouldn''t eat either. I work hard while he sleeps, how can I have the energy to feed him? So I gave him money instead.


    "What did he do with the money?"


    "I don''t know, maybe he bought sweets or something. Anyway, I want to eat Mom."


    "Okay, but you have to behave. Your sister is here."


    "Who?"


    Corazon sighed and let them her into the kitchen. She hoped her two daughters would make up. As a mother, it hurt her to see them fighting.


    "Hello, Sister Se?orita."


    Penelope had a pale complexion.


    "Oh, look who''s here! Our lost sister has returned!"


    Unfortunately, Corazon''s expectations were shattered when she heard their first conversation.


    "I can''t believe you have the courage to come back after what you did. You really have a thick skin. And what''s this? You have a daughter? Wow."


    She said sarcastically and Penelope felt uncomfortable. I stood next to Penelope and held her hand. I looked at Se?orita coldly.


    Of course I hate that bitch who always talks nonsense. Penelope was innocent, I''m the one who caused her trouble...


    "Roman and Sophia, go play with your grandmother."


    I knew something would happen, so I want to send the kids to their grandma. I didn''t want any of them to hear our conversation. Roman was confused, but he followed Sophia and Corazon.


    "Se?orita, don''t you have any manners? Penelope just arrived and you''re already showing your bad behavior."


    Simeon stood between them. He knew what had happened the last time.


    "Why do I have to do this? This woman is ungrateful. We gave her money to continue her studies, but she eloped with a bastard and never returned! When she came back, she already had a baby! Can''t you see how ungrateful she is?"


    "As far as I remember, you never helped Penelope, not even giving her a cent for her studies. Our parents are the ones who gave her the money, not you."


    Simeon and Senorita began to take hits.


    "So what? It didn''t change the fact that Penelope wasted all of our parents'' money! All of it wasted!"


    "Penelope is a scholar, we never paid tuition. We didn''t spend a lot of money, it''s a small amount." Alberto added.


    I feel my wife''s shoulders shaking.


    "She''s still an ungrateful child!"


    "Enough!"


    Alberto lost his patience and raised his voice. His children were fighting, and as the pillar of the house, he had to keep order.


    "If you want to fight, leave this place now."


    It was loud and clear. They both shut up.


    "Se?orita, you must understand that Penelope never asked us to send her money. It''s our own decision. She wanted to finish college and we want to help her, it''s simple."


    In fact, Penelope was a hardworking person. She was a working student, studying during the day and working at night.


    I first met her in the cafeteria. She was a waiter. It was a love at first sight. Since then, I decided to pursue her.


    "..."


    Se?orita glared at Penelope.


    I didn''t understand why she hated her sister so much. They were alike, appearance wise. But Se?orita was a terrible person.


    "Well..."


    She bit her lip. She took a plate and ladled rice and stew. Then she left the kitchen.


    "Are you okay, honey?"


    "I''m fine..."


    I comforted my wife and hugged her. It was obvious that she was heartbroken.


    "This woman is really hard to understand. She always makes a fuss, even over little things."


    Simeon rubbed his face in frustration while my father-in-law took out a cigarette and lit it. The atmosphere became depressed and low.


    "I think we''ll stay in our room for now. We have traveled for hours and we are tired."


    "Okay, you can tell me if you want anything." Alberto nodded and waved his hand.


    I led my wife to our room to rest.


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 RDD 30

    [Shout out to Dark Helmet9!]


    Chapter 30


    "Mommy! Let''s go pway!"


    When we entered the room, we found Sophia and mother-in-law Corazon holding Barbie.


    Unlike Sophia, Corazon held the toy awkwardly. She was old. She felt that playing with Barbie was a noble act.


    I suddenly remembered playing with my grandfather in my past life. Grandpa and I loved to play Contra despite his age. He was a kind old man and he always gave me an allowance, we lost him in 2005.


    Rest in peace Grandpa, I love you.


    Knowing that this was a parallel universe, I understood that I would never see my family again. Sometimes that made me depressed.


    "Hm, sweetheart, let''s play."


    Penelope did her best and smiled. She approached her daughter and they played together with Corazon. Their playtime was healthy and the atmosphere gradually improved.


    I sighed as I watched them. My wife was excited to meet her family, but her older sister held a grudge and caused a scene.


    "Dad."


    Roman sat down next to me. He was still holding the phone, this time playing Space Impact.


    "Is Mom okay?"


    "She''s fine. We are here for her. So you better make sure you behave and don''t give your mom any problems." I rubbed his hair and Roman nodded.


    "I will. I promise I will be a good boy."


    "Hm, I know you are a good boy."


    "Dad, does Auntie still hate us? I remember the last time we were here, she was arguing with mom."


    "About that..."


    I was shocked to hear what he said. Roman was just a baby the last time we visited Pangasinan. He was not even 3 years old then.


    Roman has strong memories, I guess.


    "Everything will be fine. You and Sophia fought sometimes, right? Siblings do fight."


    "Yes, Sophia likes to play with my Gundams and Ziods, and she already broke four of them."


    "Ugh!"


    Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    As a Gunpla enthusiast who had some models like Gundam Double 0 Exia and Gundam G40 Fighter, it hurt my balls to hear that.


    "However, I love my sister more than my toys, so I forgive her anyway. Of course, I have to remind her that breaking my toys is bad."


    "That''s right. It''s normal for siblings to fight. I think your mom and aunt will make up, too."


    Despite telling my son, I was not confident that they would make up. I could feel that Se?orita''s hatred ran deep.


    But I didn''t want the children to feel the burden, so it was better to lie. I just hoped they would not fight in front of the children.


    "Thank you, Dad. Don''t worry, I''ll protect Mom and Sophia."


    Roman nodded and focused his attention on my phone.


    "He''s getting better."


    I chuckled and looked at my harmonious family. I could say I had it better.


    .........


    ......


    ...


    Dinner came and Simeon asked us if we wanted to eat at the table or in the room. Penelope felt it would be disrespectful for us to eat in the room, so we decided to join them.


    "Penelope!"


    "Brother!"


    Penelope had 9 siblings, and she had a good relationship with all of them except Senorita.


    Penelope was the third daughter while Se?orita was the second, they were four years apart. The age difference was not that great.


    However, Penelope''s behavior was different from that of her older sister.


    The siblings began to talk and some even cried. It was obvious that they missed Penelope. Of course, Penelope cried too. She was a crybaby anyway.


    They laughed. They talked about the past. They talked about how much they had changed. But one thing was for sure, they loved each other. From the oldest child who was 51 years old to the youngest son who was currently 18 years old. Despite the age difference, they were very close.


    Even their spouses chatted with Penelope and me. They asked us about life in Manila and how we were doing.  All in all, the atmosphere was great.


    "What a sweet child."


    The wife of my edest brother-in-law touched Sophia''s nose. It was clear that she thought Sophia was adorable.


    "Thank you, dear aunt! You have beautiful eyes too. They were twinkwing!"


    "Aww~ I hope you become my daughter instead. How about I adopt you..."


    Hey, that''s pretty strong for you. Don''t take my child, my wife and I will get angry.


    "I don''t want to. I like Mommy and Dajjy!"


    "I''m just kidding. I know your parents will never let me."


    Ahem, of course I know she was joking.


    "Hehe."


    "What a sweet little girl."


    They surrounded Sophia so much. She was really adorable.


    "Roman, how are you?"


    "I''m fine, uncle. I''m glad to see you''re already married. The last time I saw you, you were still single."


    "R- Right."


    Roman was acting like a grown man and it made his uncle speechless. He laughed and rubbed Roman''s head.


    "Looks like you are getting taller and smarter. I hope my child will be like you."


    Perhaps because of the positive atmosphere, his uncle pulled out a 20 peso bill and gave it to him.


    "This is for you."


    "Is this my Christmas present? Uncle, you''re too cheap."


    "Ahem! Of course not. Your Christmas gift is different, I have already prepared it and will give it to you on Christmas."


    "Thank you, uncle. You''re really a nice person."


    Did I just hear that right? Why do I get the feeling that Roman gently manipulated his uncle? Where did he learn that?


    "Keith looks like you put on weight. And you look older now, haha."


    Another person approached me. To be honest, I didn''t remember who he was. I''m not even sure if he was Penelope''s sibling. Maybe he was someone''s spouse.


    But I kept my composure and nodded. I pretended to know him.


    "Yes, I haven''t shaved my beard, but I''m losing weight."


    "That''s good."


    Dinner was great and we had a great time. Penelope chatted happily with her siblings. I''m happy for her.


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 RDD 31

    Chapter 31


    "I''m glad to see you again."


    "Me too. I miss home."


    They had a nice chat and Penelope was obviously happy. Even the children had no problem talking to their cousins.


    Now that I remember... Pangasinan is supposed to have a different dialect, but now they use Tagalog. Maybe because I''m living in another world, our country has only one language.


    "Looks like you''re having a happy life. I''m happy for you."


    "Thanks, brother."


    I was happy to see them talking to their relatives. At least they had a strong bond, unlike me. I had already made up my mind and cut all ties with my family. I didn''t have any news about them.


    It was good that they had a big dining room and everyone could eat.


    I see three generations of the family having a party. That is quite honorable. They haven''t forgotten their roots. Well, considering that everyone was going to get a lump of money tomorrow, they made sure to attend this dinner.


    I can''t judge them. After all, that was the reason we were here. Because we needed money.


    Everybody needs money.


    Living in this world required money. It was impossible to maintain a decent lifestyle without money. For our family''s future, we need money.


    "Tch. They act like everything is happy. Plastic people."


    Unfortunately, I heard a tongue click. I looked around and found Se?orita mumbling.


    She was sitting in the corner next to her husband.


    I can''t see her son. I hope she hasn''t done anything bad to him.


    The two were quiet, eating their dinner. They didn''t talk to anyone, as if they were keeping their presence low.


    However, it was obvious that Se?orita''s expression was ugly. She grumbled and rolled her eyes as she listened to their conversation.


    "We are doing well. My husband works as a taxi driver. But as soon as we get the money, we are thinking of starting a business."


    They tackled the issue of ''money'' and Penelope replied. I already resigned, so our intention to start a business was firm.


    -- Slam!


    "Punyeta!"


    Se?orita cursed so loudly that everyone stopped talking. They looked at Se?orita in confusion.


    The woman slammed her hands down on the table. Fortunately, almost everyone had finished eating.


    If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    "Hick--!"


    Sophia, who was in her mother''s arms, hiccupped. Tears began to form around her eyes.


    "Wwuuuuu... Mommy... Auntie is ugwy."


    She was shocked and hurt. She began to cry against her mother''s shoulder.


    My fists were shaking. She made my daughter cry... But I decided to control my emotions.


    I approached my wife and stood beside her. This could be a conflict between sisters, and I''m an outsider.


    But my position was clear. I''m on my wife''s side.


    "Mommy..."


    "Hush, sweetheart. Mommy''s here."


    Penelope had a complicated look on her face as she comforted Sophia.


    Then she looked at Se?orita.


    "Sister, if you have something to say, you can say it. You don''t have to act like everyone owes you money!"


    I knew my wife very well. She would fight anyone to protect our children.


    "What did you say?"


    Se?orita stood up angrily.


    "H- Hey, I think you need to calm down."


    "Yes. Let''s settle this peacefully."


    The other siblings tried to mend their relationship. Unfortunately, the two women were stubborn.


    "Hah! What an arrogant woman! You eloped and came back with a child, and then you acted as if nothing had happened!"


    "I didn''t do that. You know what happened. I apologized to our parents and they forgave me. I even talked to our brothers and sisters, and they forgave me as well. But you... Why do you hate me so much?"


    Penelope began to cry. She didn''t have it any better. She knew her mistakes and wanted to make up for them. That''s why she contacted her parents every week.


    She even talked to me about sending some of our money to her parents every three months. To be honest, I was reluctant at the time, but in the end I decided to agree. We had enough money to live on.


    "I''m not a successful person, but I want to show our parents that I love them, so..."


    "That''s the problem! You are not successful!"


    "Sister!"


    "Se?orita! Shut up!"


    My father-in-law and Simeon tried to stop Se?orita, but it was too late. She had already reached her last fuse.


    "I won''t! Do you remember what you told us? That you would make our family rich! That you would take us out of poverty! Well, look what happened to you. You have become nothing but a housewife dependent on your husband! What about our dream?"


    Se?orita let out all her frustration.


    Now I understand why she was angry. It was a fucked up reason that made my stomach turn!


    I looked around and noticed that some of Penelope''s siblings were looking away.


    Do they feel the same way? They put a heavy responsibility on my wife and expected everything to work out. What the hell is that? They want to rely on my wife to get out of poverty?


    "Of all of us, you''re the only one who can go to college because you''re smart. But you disappointed us. Now we are poor because of you! And now you''re asking for money? You have a thick skin!"


    "Se?orita!"


    "Sister, why do you blame Penelope? Don''t blame her for being poor. You didn''t study hard and you didn''t finish elementary school because you don''t want to go to school! You didn''t go to college because you can''t read and write! You''re the one responsible for your life!"


    Simeon stood between them and argued back.


    "You''re just like me! You didn''t finish elementary school either!"


    "That''s right! But I never blame Penelope because I know she didn''t do anything wrong. I''m responsible for my own choices. I''m an adult."


    "Hah!"


    Se?orita scoffed and turned around. It seemed that no reason would convince her.


    That bitch! She wants to leech off her sibling and then blame Penelope for being poor!


    Her reason was too petty. She held a grudge against Penelope because Penelope failed in college and didn''t help her.


    You didn''t even help Penelope back then. Her tuition and pocket money came from her own pocket. Only her parents helped her. You don''t have the right to blame her. If you want to be rich, work your ass off!


    [Hi, I just want to promote my other novels:]


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 RDD 32

    [Shout out to Andrew F!]


    Chapter 32


    They became Penelope''s burden. Where it became her job to give them a prosperous life. They trusted her and believed that she would come back as a successful person.


    The atmosphere became depressing and everyone looked at us. Corazon and Alberto didn''t know what to say, they were also sad.


    Only Sophia''s crying voice resounded. She cried and cried, pulling at her mother''s clothes.


    "Mommy, Auntie hates us! Wuuwuuu!"


    "Sweetheart..."


    Even Penelope lost herself. She sniffed as tears streamed down her cheeks.


    "Honey, let''s go to our room."


    Since the truth showed up, I decided to invite my family back to the room to calm down.


    "Yes. Father and Mother, we will rest now."


    Penelope agreed and glanced at her parents.


    "Yes. Take care of yourself. Sleep early, we have a lot to do tomorrow."


    Alberto and Corazon nodded.


    "En."


    Penelope did her best and smiled. Her parents obviously loved her and they loved Se?orita too. They were their children and they loved them all. So it broke their hearts to see their children fighting.


    We left the dining room in awkward silence.


    Maybe everyone treated Penelope as their way out of poverty.


    Bunch of bastards.


    I didn''t care if they were Penelope''s siblings. If they treated Penelope like that, I would be the one to stop them.


    If Se?orita was a man, I might have broken her nose by now.


    When we reached our room, Sophia was already sniffing. She wasn''t crying anymore, but her eyes were puffy.


    "Mommy, Sophia wuv you. I wuv you, Mommy."


    "Hm. I love you too."


    Sophia hugged her mother and Penelope hugged her back. Then Roman hugged her mother as well.


    Penelope hugged her children tightly as her shoulders shook. She controlled her emotions so she wouldn''t break down.


    "Mom, I love you. I will always love you."


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    Roman assured his mother that he was there for her. He put the phone down, knowing that his mother was more important than playing games.


    "Hm, I love you too, Roman. You''re a good kid. You never give us any trouble. You always follow our orders, you''re a mature child."


    They started to sob.


    As for me, I smiled bitterly and approached the three of them. It hurt me to see them like that. I choked up as I hugged my wife and children.


    "Daddy will work hard for our family. I will do my best to give you a better life."


    I said as I kissed Penelope''s forehead.


    I understood very well. I was the reason for Penelope''s failure.


    If I hadn''t seduced her, she might have become a career woman with a professional job.


    Her family was disappointed because of me. All because of my stupidity. I ended her dreams... Even now I was still blaming myself for that.


    It took us a few minutes to calm our emotions. Then we realized that Sophia had fallen asleep. Penelope chuckled with tears in her eyes. She happily touched Sophia''s nose.


    Even though we were facing a problem, watching Sophia sleep comforted our hearts. Our children were the reason we kept going.


    "I''ll prepare the bed for Sophia," I said, opening our luggage.


    We brought Sophia''s pillow so she could get a good night''s sleep.


    A few minutes later, Sophia was sleeping on her pillow without a problem.


    Even Roman stopped playing and fell asleep. Perhaps the trip had exhausted them and they fell asleep more quickly.


    Our bed had nothing but a blanket. We didn''t have a foam mattress to sleep on. It was expensive.


    Maybe the other rooms had foam mattresses, but they were already occupied by others.


    "Honey," I asked my wife, who was resting her head on my shoulder. Her face looked terrible, swollen, and red. I love this woman.


    "Hm?"


    "Do you think anything would change if you didn''t meet me?" I asked without thinking of the consequences.


    Suddenly, I almost jumped as a painful pinch hit my stomach.


    "Ouch! Honey? Why did you do that?"


    "... Don''t ever ask me that again."


    "I understand. I''m sorry, I just don''t want to see you sad." I was honest.


    I wiped away her tears and kissed her again. At that moment, that was the best way to comfort her - to shower her with kisses.


    "I chose you because I love you. I followed you, I made a family with you because you''re the man I want to spend my life with. Don''t talk about something that will make our children sad, that will make me sad." She began to sob again.


    "Then what about me? Have you never thought about me before you asked this question? Asking me this question will make me regret my decision." Her tears landed on my chest as she cried.


    Ah! I made her cry!


    "I''m sorry, I''m sorry. I will never do that again. I promise you, your decision is the right one."


    I put my arms around her waist and pulled her closer. I realized that she was sensitive right now. Anything bad I might say would affect her.


    "Wwuuwuuu, you said that you would protect me. Then why are you saying we shouldn''t see each other? Keith, you''re a bad guy! Stupid!" She yelled, pounding her fists against my chest.


    "Yes, yes. I''m a bad guy. I''m stupid! You can hurt me more!"


    As long as I could make her feel better, I would let her hit me.


    We looked like a silly couple right now, sobbing and hugging. We acted like we were still teenagers.


    "Honey, I will prove everything to you."


    "En."


    "I will never say anything bad to you again."


    I would say anything to make her happy. What I say might make other people cringe, but I really love my wife.


    "Hm."


    "I will never drink alcohol and smoke cigarettes, I will never do vices." I touched her hand.


    "Promise me."


    "Yes, I promise you."


    Our fingers intertwined and locked.


    "So please, smile. As long as I see you smile, I will be satisfied."


    "Silly..." She pouted and gently wiped her face on my chest...


    Her snot and tears remained on my skin, but who cares?


    "I love you."


    "I love you too."


    We only kissed briefly, but I felt it was the hottest kiss we ever had.


    "Let''s talk to your parents tomorrow."


    "Yeah, let''s talk to them."


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 RDD 33

    [Shout out to Nezher92 and LuizDarui!]


    Chapter 33


    December 23rd, 1999


    The day arrived and Penelope and I woke up early. Thankfully, Penelope''s face looked better after a night''s sleep.


    "Good morning honey."


    "Good morning."


    We greeted each other with the usual "Good morning" and sat up. We both checked the kids and found that they were still asleep.


    "How about some coffee? I can ask Corazon and Alberto for some."


    "I want rice coffee."


    "That bitter drink? You want to drink it?"


    I was shocked because I knew the taste of that coffee. It tasted like charcoal rice, very bitter.


    "Hm." She nodded and yawned.


    It was disturbing that my wife missed this coffee. The last time I drank it, I almost choked.


    "... Okay."


    My lips twitched as I replied. Why am I scared? It''s just coffee.


    I steeled myself and followed my wife into the kitchen.


    We realized that we were not the only ones up early.


    Most of Penelope''s relatives were awake and eating breakfast at 5 a.m. The sun had not yet risen, but they were already eating. As you would expect from people from the provinces, they wake up early.


    Or maybe they wake up early because today is the day they will get a lot of money.


    December 23rd was the day that Corazon and Alberto would officially sell their land. They would sign the contract in the village hall and the village captain would be the witness.


    "You are awake."


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    "Do you want coffee?"


    Alberto offered us a single packet of Nescafe. This coffee product was the best-selling coffee in our country.


    Nestle was really booming in the early 2000s. Despite their horrible crimes...


    "Father, do you have rice coffee? I miss that coffee."


    "Yes, we have it. You can make your own. The thermos was filled with hot water, you can use that."


    "What about you honey?" She glanced at me.


    "I''m good with Nesface," I answered honestly. Rice coffee was too strong for me, even with a spoonful of sugar.


    "We will all go to the village hall. We will meet the buyer there and settle the account." Corazon announced and they all listened. After all, it was about money.


    Even Se?orita behaved well next to her husband. She glared at Penelope a few times, but she didn''t cause any problems.


    "Father and Mother talked to Se?orita last night, that''s why she keeps her mouth shut. I don''t know what they talked about, but at least Se?orita is behaving."


    Simeon explained and I nodded. It was better that way. As long as nothing bad happened, Penelope and I would be at peace.


    "Honey, can you take care of the kids later?" Penelope said to me after taking a sip of bitter rice coffee.


    "I will."


    Just to be sure, I decided to stay in the house. Someone had to take care of the children. I trust my wife and I knew she wouldn''t be bullied. She would fight back. Her parents would also protect her.


    The only variable was Se?orita, but she understood the consequences of running amok.


    After we consumed coffee, we returned to our room.


    The children woke up later. As always, Sophia would look for her mother every time she woke up.


    "Mommy~? Mommy, where?"


    "Mommy''s here." Penelope touched her little hand and shook it gently.


    "Hehe."


    Sophia giggled and kicked her feet in the air, excited and happy.


    "As always, my sweet daughter is the best."


    "Yay!"


    Mother and child cuddled early in the morning.


    "Roman, here''s some bread and fresh milk."


    "Thanks, Dad... Wait, Dad. The milk, is it that ''fresh'' milk..."


    Roman looked at me reluctantly.


    "Hey, don''t be like that. This milk is from the cows. Don''t worry, we boiled it."


    "That''s not the problem. I don''t like the taste of fresh cow milk."


    "Well, I suggest you add sugar to make it sweet. It''s good that your mother has already prepared sugar for you. She knows that you won''t drink it if it doesn''t taste good."


    "Thanks, Mom."


    "Honey, feed Sophia for me. I need to change."


    After cuddling with Sophia, Penelope stood up to change her dress.


    The room didn''t have a bathroom, but there was a small cubicle where a person could change.


    "Okay."


    I sat down beside Sophia and began to feed her. I soaked the bread in milk and used the spoon to feed her.


    "Sophia, say ah."


    "Ah-nom nom nom. Yummy!"


    She ate and chewed the bread greedily. The bread was already soft, so it wasn''t a problem for Sophia to chew it. If she could not chew it, she could drink milk instead.


    I laughed at her getting milk on her lips.


    "Honey, hold still, let me wipe your lips."


    "En."


    Sophia nodded.


    The two were clearly hungry because they consumed the food so fast.


    Then, I looked at Roman who was getting busy.


    "Roman, don''t play with your toys, clean your face first. Your eyes are still dirty. Come on, I''ll take you out. Wife, I''m going to take the kids outside."


    "Okay. Make sure to wash Sophia''s face."


    These two were very active after eating.


    "... Okay."


    This house had no water. Instead, we have to go outside and get water from the old water pump.


    That''s right, the water pump where you have to push down the lever to get water. It takes strength and endurance to use it.


    Roman carried a basin while I carried Sophia.


    "Roman, take care of your sister while I get the water."


    Pumping water was strenuous and almost an exercise.


    "Huck--!"


    I pushed down and a few seconds later the water came out... It didn''t even fill a tenth of the basin. So of course I had to push it down again.


    I repeated this process until we had enough for the children to wash their faces. I was breathing unevenly when it was over.


    "Sophia, don''t dab the water, you''re wasting it."


    "Dad, wash me please~"


    I have no choice, I have to grant my princess''s wish. I gently cleaned her face, especially her eyes where there were dried eye boogers.


    "What about you Roman? Do you want my help?"


    "Dad, I''m already big. You don''t have to."


    "... Okay."


    This kid. It seemed that he didn''t want me to wash his face.


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 RDD 34

    [Shout out to King BABA, Madlad, and Ecokane 0!]


    Chapter 34


    Since it was still early and cold outside, I brought the children back right away. Washing their faces with cold water would give them cold.


    Anyway, when we got back, Penelope was already dressed up. A simple T-shirt and pants, nothing much.


    But in my eyes, my wife is as beautiful as ever. I smiled and approached her.


    "Honey, don''t look at me like that." She giggled.


    "What did I do?" I was confused as I hugged her from behind.


    "You''re looking at me like you''re going to eat me." She whispered in my ear and I almost shuddered. I wanted to jump on her and rip her clothes off.


    Unfortunately, the kids were watching and it was early in the morning. I have to control myself.


    Maybe the Pill I took yesterday made me "stronger". It seems to have a long-lasting effect.


    I hugged her tighter and kissed her ear. She giggled and pushed me away.


    "That tickles."


    "Hm, stay close to Simeon and your parents."


    They were the people I knew best and trusted. Unlike her other siblings, I felt safe when Penelope was with Simeon and her parents.


    "I know. I will try to stay away from Se?orita."


    Penelope checked the children and nodded when she found their faces clean.


    "Mommy, where are you going?"


    "I''m going to the village hall."


    "What''s village hawl? Is it a bweautiful place, Mommy?"


    Sophia was still a young girl and didn''t know much. She always asked us when she was confused about something.


    "No, sweetie. I think the village hall is a boring place. We don''t usually go there unless we are sick and need medicine. If the families have a problem, the village captain will try to help them solve the problem."


    "Then why are you going, Mommy? Is it because of Aunt Se?owita?"


    Sophia''s face became sad, remembering what happened last night.


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    "Sweetheart... No, it''s not because of that."


    "Then why?"


    "I have to go there so you can have food and toys. You want toys, right? Mommy will have money to buy you toys."


    Penelope giggled and pinched her cheeks.


    "Weally?" Her eyes brightened.


    Sophia''s cute face had an excited expression. She was obviously happy to hear that she would receive toys.


    "Can I go, Mommy? I want to be with you."


    That might be exhausting...


    Penelope looked at me, then back at Sophia.


    "Sweetie, you''re getting heavy. Mommy can''t carry you for much longer. You can spend time with Daddy instead. Don''t you love Daddy? You said you always miss Daddy."


    "Yes, I wuv Dajjy."


    Oh God, thank you for giving me the chance to hear my daughter''s love for me. This life has been worth it.


    I understood that once a girl grows up, she will slowly grow away from her parents and become an adult. Until that time comes, I want to show my daughter that Daddy loves her.


    "That''s right. You can play with Daddy.


    "Then I will stay with Dajjy."


    "You''re my sweet, good girl. Mommy loves you~ My princess smells good!"


    Penelope started kissing her face, showering her with love.


    "Hehe, I wuv you too Mommy!" Sophia giggled as Penelope drowned her in kisses.


    ... I actually feel jealous.


    Suddenly I felt someone tug on my shirt and I looked down. I found Roman standing next to me, pulling at the hem of my shirt.


    "Dad, I love you."


    "Eh?"


    This was quite surprising. I had not expected Roman to say it to me.


    "What? Do you want me to kiss you? Is that why you told me that?" I joked.


    I laughed and rubbed his head and ruffled his hair.


    He looked at me and let me ruffle his hair.


    "Dad, I don''t want any kisses from you. You look old and fat, I prefer beautiful women like Mom to kiss me."


    As expected from my son. His preference was not so bad.


    In fact, I want my wife to kiss me too.


    Nevertheless, I bent down and kissed his head. As a man, I knew very well that Roman would grow up and never let me kiss him again, not even on the head.


    It is what it is. Even me, I never want my father to kiss me too... That would be gay, right?


    "Dad, don''t ever do that again. It gives me goosebumps. You''ve already messed up my hair, and now you want to kiss me? You''re not a good guy at all."


    Men don''t like kissing men, unless they swing in the opposite direction.


    Roman watched as the mother and daughter cuddled.


    "You''re jealous, aren''t you? Go on, you can join your Mom and sister."


    "En."


    Roman nodded and walked away from me to join his mother.


    "Roman, my good boy. You are really handsome!"


    "Mom, don''t pinch my cheeks. You make my cheeks red."


    "Is it because you are blushing?"


    "No, Mom. It''s obviously because you pinched my cheeks so hard."


    Despite the grumbling, Roman was having fun playing with them.


    "Mommy, me too!"


    I watched them play and a smile just formed on my face. Just watching them having fun was enough to make me feel blessed.


    That''s why, as a father, I have to work hard to protect their smiles.


    "Penelope, everyone is ready. Let''s go."


    "Yes, Mother."


    A few minutes later, Corazon came in and called Penelope.


    "Mommy, take care! I wuv you!"


    "I will, baby... Honey, are you okay?"


    Before she left, she kissed me on the lips. I almost licked her lips, but that kind of smooching would be inappropriate for the kids to see.


    "Hm, take care." I said.


    We followed them to the entrance and watched them leave. Because they were too many, they didn''t use Simeon''s tricycle. The tricycle could only hold six people at most.


    "Be safe, Gwandma and Gwandpa! I wuv you!"


    Sophia waved at them.


    "Bye, aunts and uncles!"


    "Aww, what a cute little girl."


    No one could resist Sophia''s cuteness.


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 RDD 35

    [Shout out to Mike B, Kheiven D, Herzog, TheBurningGoose, and KumaBEAR!]


    Chapter 35


    After seeing them off, me and the kids went back to the house and decided to spend our day having fun.


    "Dajjy, you are the bad Dwagon and you will kidnap Pwincess Aria. Then Mr. Ken will show up and kwill you."


    As expected of my daughter, she knew how to create a scenario. Maybe she would become a movie director or a famous writer.


    "Okay! Roar!"


    I pretended to be a lizard, walking with my four limbs. I kidnapped Princess Aria, who was the Barbie doll. I grabbed the toy and laughed like crazy, I''m kinda good at it.


    "Nyihihihi! Guaarr--!"


    I yelled and jumped on the bed. I feel like I''m becoming a child again, an asshole of a child.


    "Oh no! Pwincess Aria has been kidnapped. Somebody help us! Help!"


    Sophia said and looked around. Suddenly a man flew by and landed on the bed. Right in front of me.


    "Whoosh-! Whoosh-! I''m Ken! The hero!"


    "Roar!"


    The man in front of me had metal wings. His hands held a gun and a sword. He looked menacing. And the main reason he looked menacing was because of his face! He was a robot! Ken was a Gundam!


    "Release the Pwincess!"


    The one holding the Gundam was Sophia. She spoke with a raspy voice as the Gundam raised its weapon.


    "Nyraagh-!"


    Of course, as the evil dragon, I have to fight for her. I ''wrestled'' with Ken and fought him bravely.


    Unfortunately, because I was the bad guy, Ken defeated me and killed the dragon.


    He took back Princess Aria and they lived happily ever after.


    Sophia was holding the two toys. The Gundam and Barbie got married and had a baby... Sophia was the narrator and she decided to marry the two different toys.


    "Unfortunately, Mr. Ken cheated and he divorced Pwincess Aria. Because of too much depression, Pwincess Aria killed herself. A few years later, Mr. Ken realized that he still loved Pwincess Aria, and he returned. But he was shocked to find that Princess Aria had died. Then he also killed himself."


    Wait, what? Ken, you fucking asshole! You are not a man! You are a coward! You abandoned her and caused her death! You deserve to die!


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    ... What in a Romeo and Juliet is this?


    I almost got caught up in the plot.


    As expected from my daughter, she knew how to make a good story!


    I rubbed her hair as she started another story.


    This time, Princess Aria was an actress, while Mr. Ken was a billionaire CEO. She really knew how to make a story. Her plot was one of a kind - an actress and a CEO, definitely not a clich¨¦.


    "Dad, where''s your charger? Your phone has a low battery."


    "Check the luggage, it''s in the right pocket. Roman, you don''t want to play with us?"


    "I''m not immature, Dad."


    "..."


    Old phones had short battery life and needed to be charged at least twice a day.


    "Kids, just tell me if you''re hungry. We can eat cookies."


    "Yes, Dad."


    We bought cookies and chocolate and gave most of it to Penelope''s relatives. We left a few packets, enough for us to eat.


    "Dajjy... Wiwi." Sophia''s voice trailed off as she realized something.


    "What''s that, Princess?"


    I turned to her and found that Sophia had peed herself. Her diaper was much darker.


    "Dajjy... I''m uncomfortable."


    "It''s okay, sweetheart, Daddy will change your diaper. Please stay still. Roman, get me Sophia''s diaper."


    "Here, Dad."


    As a father, I have experienced changing my children''s diapers. I was clueless at first but having two kids made me learn.


    A few minutes later, Sophia looked happy again and returned her focus to her toys. She began to create another story.


    This time, Mr. Ken was a gangster, while Princess Aria was a normal girl. She fell in love with the bad boy Ken and fixed him up. Definitely not a clich¨¦.


    Suddenly I heard noises outside our room. I opened the door to see three boys.


    They were shocked at first. But then they looked at Roman, especially at my cell phone he was playing with.


    "U- Uncle, can we play with you?"


    Huh? Me? Play with kids? Of course not, I''m too old to play with kids.


    "Okay, you can join us."


    These children were cousins of Roman and Sophia. It was no problem to let them bond and play.


    They entered with shyness. Then their eyes went to the Gundam that Sophia was holding. Their mouths were almost drooling.


    "Hello Roman, Sophia."


    "Hello, cousins!"


    "I have Beyblades here, we can fight."


    Roman stopped playing with my phone and joined them instead. He gave me my cellphone.


    "Y- Yes! Let''s play!"


    When they heard that Roman had Beyblades, the three kids were immediately excited.


    One of them ran down to the kitchen and grabbed a basin as a platform where Beyblades could fight.


    If I''m not mistaken, that child is Billy. Se?orita''s child.


    My eyes focused on the smallest child. Billy looked thin and undernourished.


    They were the same age, but Billy''s height made him look like a three-year-old.


    Maybe Roman had already predicted this and brought his Beyblades. Or maybe he just wanted to show off his toys.


    Kids were simple. They want to show off their toys to others to make them jealous.


    I''m not going to lie, I''m that kind of kid. I remember when I was in elementary school, I brought my Walkman and wore it all day. My classmates drool when they looked at me... Yeah, I know, I''m an asshole.


    "Go shoot!"


    The four kids pulled the trigger and their Beyblades began to spin in the basin. They collided and clashed.


    "Wow!"


    Even Sophia was watching. She was impressed to see the Beyblades collide.


    They played for hours. They got to know each other and called each other cousins.


    Children, they were too simple.


    "This Beyblade... Can I have it?" Billy asked bravely, looking at the Beyblade.


    "You can each have one, I have dozens of them in our house." Roman rubbed his nose and nodded arrogantly.


    "Wow! Thanks, Roman!" The three boys were happy and thanked him very much. They spent their time playing until they were tired.


    Before they left, I gave them each a piece of chocolate and cookies. I want them to think of me as a good uncle.


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 RDD 36

    [Shout out to Gabriel!]


    Chapter 36


    After the cousins left, I found Roman smirking. It seemed that bragging about his toys was worth it.


    I''m proud to see Roman giving toys to his cousins, it took a lot of courage to do that.


    For young children, there were no other important things than their toys. For Roman to give away his toys showed his maturity. At the very least, he was mature enough to share his blessings.


    I remember fighting with my brother because he touched my Nintendo Game & Watch.


    I was a selfish kid and I never like to share my toys. I love showing them to poor kids, but I would fight them if they even touched them... Yes, I was a spoiled brat. What can I say? I was born into a rich family.


    Remembering that time, I suddenly missed my parents. I wonder if Dad still hates me. Penelope and I ran away because my parents didn''t support our relationship.


    I sighed. I miss them so much.


    "Dajjy? Are you okay? Sophia has chocolate cookie here!"


    Someone tugged on my pants. I looked down and saw Sophia looking at me with her innocent eyes. I chuckled as I picked her up.


    "Don''t worry baby, Daddy''s fine."


    "Then you don''t want chocolate?" Her blue eyes were bright, unblemished, and young.


    "If you give me one, I''ll eat it."


    "Here Dajjy." She smiled and handed me her cookie.


    To be honest, her hands were a little dirty. Even the cookie had a bite mark and some saliva. Anyway, I ate it happily.


    "Dajjy, when is Mommy coming? I miss her."


    "Honey, you haven''t seen your Mommy for an hour and you miss her already?"


    "Yes, I wuv Mommy. I wuv her more than you."


    I shook my head and chuckled. I touched her nose and she looked at me very sweetly.


    "That''s right baby, you should love your mommy. Love her more than me."


    "Yes." She nodded seriously.


    While Sophia and I had a deep conversation. Roman dipped his chocolate cookie into the fresh milk.


    Sophia turned to find her brother doing something wonderful. As a child, when she found something new, her curiosity would light up. Now she wanted to do what her brother was doing.


    "Dajjy? Can I have some milk?" Her expression was dangerously adorable.


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    "Of course, sweetheart, you can have it."


    Corazon and Alberto had a few cows and two of them were lactating. They boiled a liter of milk for us. There was still enough for my daughter to "play" with.


    "Here, sweetie."


    "Yay!"


    She was happy when I gave her a glass of milk. I had already added sugar, just to make sure Sophia would like it.


    "Bwother! Look!"


    She yelled and dipped the cookie in the milk. It splashed around and almost knocked the glass over. Fortunately, only a small amount of milk spilled. Still, my daughter was really playing with her food.


    The way she ate the cookie was messy. The soggy cookie had already melted with the milk, and what she ate was only a small amount. Her face was dirty too.


    I sat down and wiped her face and mouth. I wondered how Penelope kept Sophia clean. Because in my opinion, Sophia was a reckless child who would not hesitate to slide on the dirty floor.


    "Bwother?"


    "Sophia, this is how you do it."


    Roman sat down next to her and showed her how to dip properly.


    It''s too bad we don''t have a camera, I want to take a picture of my kids...


    It''s decided, I''m going to buy a camera. I don''t want to forget these little moments when my kids were bonding.


    As a parent, I''m afraid to see my children grow up. Because I knew they would lose interest in an old man like me.


    I can testify to that. I was one of those who forgot my parents. I literally ran away from them.


    So children, please stay young longer. Daddy wants to spoil you.


    I unconsciously smiled as I watched them eat. Just like before, Sophia''s face was dirty again.


    As his father, I wiped her face again.


    "Brother-in-law, I cooked sweet potatoes. Would you like to eat some?"


    Suddenly someone called me. I got up and opened the door. I saw a young man holding a plate of steaming hot sweet potatoes.


    This young man, I think I saw him last night. What was his name again?


    "Thank you. Wait, what did you call me? You called me brother-in-law?"


    "Yes, is something wrong?" He tilted his head.


    "No..."


    I realized that this young man was in fact Penelope''s brother.


    "I''m just shocked that you look so young."


    "Oh, I''m the youngest child. I''m 18 years old right now. Father and Mother asked me to stay in the house and look after it."


    "I see."


    Like I said, I didn''t know all of Penelope''s siblings. I thought this guy was Penelope''s nephew. I was damn wrong, he was her brother.


    "I am Santiago. We never had a proper greeting. Last night was a bit..." He laughed awkwardly.


    "Don''t worry, Santiago. We''re old enough to understand."


    "Sorry about Sister Se?orita. She is always on her red day, you know. She is always irritated."


    We both laughed at that.


    "Thank you for the sweet potatoes."


    "We have a lot of sweet potatoes here. To be honest, I''m getting tired of them."


    "What about the other kids?"


    "I''ve already gave them, so don''t worry. See you later then. Father and Mother have decided to kill the goats tomorrow."


    "On Christmas Eve?"


    "That''s right."


    Santiago left after giving us sweet potatoes. I touched them while they were still hot and I almost got burned...


    The two children were interested in eating the sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes are expensive in the city and we rarely eat them.


    "We''ll let the sweet potatoes cool down before we eat them, okay?"


    "Yes!"


    The two nodded their heads. They looked at the steam coming out of the sweet potatoes. They understood that eating them hot might hurt them.


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 RDD 37

    [Shout out to Ricardo S. and Sahal I!]


    Chapter 37


    We waited for the sweet potatoes to cool before eating them. While we waited, Sophia and Roman turned their attention back to their toys to pass the time.


    "Guys, I think we can eat them now." I touched the potatoes and confirmed that they were no longer hot.


    "Yay! Thanks Dajjy!"


    Roman helped Sophia stand up. They approached the table where I was peeling the sweet potatoes.


    "This is for my little girl."


    I gave Sophia a small piece, knowing she would not eat it all. She had eaten chocolate earlier and her stomach was full.


    "Thank you Dajjy."


    "This is for Roman."


    "Thanks, Dad."


    They both started to eat the sweet potatoes.


    Of course I ate them too. They were new crops and tasted good and sweet. Unlike the potatoes in town, these were big and fresh.


    We were eating when we suddenly heard the children shouting happily.


    "They are here!"


    "Huh?"


    That caught our attention and we looked out the window.


    "Mommy!"


    Then we realized that Penelope and the others had returned. They seemed to be carrying some bags.


    The children were excited. I carried Sophia and Roman followed behind me.


    As we walked out of the house, we saw their spouses and children greeting the family.


    From the look on their faces, it seemed that the negotiations had been successful.


    "Mommy!" Sophia giggled, wanting to hug her mother. It was good that I was exercising, otherwise, I would lose my strength because my daughter was moving too much.


    I took the two children to their mother. Penelope was carrying a basket of corn and potatoes.


    "I helped mother and father carry the ingredients for tomorrow''s Christmas Eve."


    So that was why they were carrying sacks. When I looked at the sacks, I noticed that most of them were dry wood. They were probably going to use it as firewood.


    Stolen novel; please report.


    We exchanged what we were carrying. I carried the basket, which was surprisingly heavy, while Penelope carried Sophia.


    "Aww, how''s my cute little girl? Did you miss Mommy?"


    "Yes, I miss Mommy a lot!"


    "And you Roman?"


    "En." Roman nodded and stood beside her.


    I looked around and saw the other families greeting the returnees. Everyone was smiling, probably because they knew that money arrived.


    "I''ll take the basket to the kitchen," I said, moving forward.


    "Don''t strain yourself."


    Oh, come on, honey, it''s only one basket. I could carry two or more baskets if I had to.


    As I walked to the kitchen, the other men followed, and one by one we placed the items in the kitchen. These things and ingredients would be used tomorrow on Christmas Eve.


    I even heard that Alberto was going to kill three goats to celebrate Christmas.


    The house was lively. There were almost 50 people in the house whispering excitedly.


    All I can say is that this family is huge. The three generations could fill a classroom.


    "Everyone, listen. We talked earlier. The money has already been divided and I gave each family one hundred thousand. The village chief witnessed everything and nothing bad happened." Corazon explained.


    It seemed that they had already counted and divided the money. Maybe that was why they took so long to return.


    I looked at my wife and she nodded at me.


    We both smiled for a moment. There was no other way, our family needed money and the 100 thousand pesos were important to us.


    "Now you can check it again when you return to your room. We will get up early tomorrow to kill the goats. Simeon will go to town early in the morning to buy more ingredients.


    Everyone agreed and went back to their rooms. When we entered the room, Penelope pulled out an envelope and sat down in the chair.


    I sat next to her and watched her count the money. 100 pieces of 1,000 peso bills, exactly.


    We have 20 thousand in the bank, 19 thousand in the luggage, and 100 thousand...


    "Honey, I think we can really start a business." Penelope sighed with relief and hugged me.


    "Yes, 139 thousand. We have to use it properly."


    Life was hard for us. No, life was hard for everyone. Maybe only a few people had it better.


    Maybe only 10 percent of the total population lived their lives to the fullest, without fear of hunger, without fear of disease, without fear of poverty... Now, I have no statistical analysis to prove this, but who cares?


    For me, all I wanted was for my family to feel safe and healthy. So I want my family to be part of that 10 percent.


    "Let''s follow Simeon into town and put the money in the bank. You have your BDO ATM card, right?" She said, rubbing her face against my chest.


    "Yes, I also have my ID and birth certificate."


    Carrying a large amount of money could be dangerous, so it was better to put it in a safe place, which was the bank.


    To be honest, I didn''t feel safe leaving the money in our room. 100 thousand was a huge amount and someone might be possessed by the devil and try to steal it from us.


    There is also Se?orita. I don''t know what she will do.


    We promised to stay in the province and spend Christmas and New Year''s here. We were going to see Senorita whether we liked it or not.


    I rubbed her hair and we stayed like that for a few seconds until Sophia joined us.


    "Mommy, Dajjy, me too! I want a hug too!"


    "Come here, sweetie."


    "Hehe." She giggled as she joined us and received hug.


    "..."


    "Roman, join us too." Penelope offered.


    "Since you asked me, I will reluctantly join you."


    We both laughed at Roman''s answer. With the two children between us, we hugged each other like it was no other day.


    [Hi, I just want to promote my other novels:]


    1) MC is not part of the story


    - This novel is already finished with 526 chapters.


    2) The only fuel is using the D.


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    -This is a new novel. A slow progressive slice of life about a deadbeat dad.


    4) Hollywood What If


    - Mc returned to Hollywood in 1994.


    [I post my novels mostly on Scribblehub, Webnovel, RoyalRoad and Questionable Questing].

 RDD 38

    [Shout out to Alex and Alex!]


    Chapter 38


    December 24th, 1999.


    It was early in the morning, but everyone was on the move. Busy with preparations for Christmas Eve. It was 4 a.m. and the sun was still not shining, but people were already making noise.


    Like the other families, we woke up early. Even the children, who were not used to getting up early, were wide awake. They felt the changes and excitement of yesterday.


    All they knew was that Penelope got money and everyone was happy. To be honest, they didn''t know how much 100 thousand pesos was.


    Last night at dinner, everyone was talking happily. No one talked about what happened last time. They seemed to have forgotten about it. Even Se?orita was behaving well. Although it was clear that she didn''t like Penelope with her staring.


    Anyway, we didn''t care.


    We had a sumptuous meal. The vegetables and the meat were eaten. Even the chocolates we had brought were eaten.


    "I''ll go down."


    "Don''t push yourself, honey."


    "..."


    I went to the old water pump to get water for the children. The children wanted to go to town.


    We decided to take them to see the town and buy some things. The kids were obviously excited, maybe that was why they woke up early.


    "How''s your night, brother-in-law?"


    I found Santiago pumping water. He was the youngest child in the family and had just graduated from high school this year.


    "It was fine. We slept well."


    "You didn''t get bitten by any mosquitoes, did you? You know mosquitoes are everywhere."


    "We used mosquito repellent incense." I yawned and stretched my arms out. It was kind of cold, to be honest. Well, December was a cold month.


    "That''s good."


    "What about you? What are you going to do after this? I heard you just graduated from high school."


    Santiago was still young and could take it slow. No, I tell him to take it slow.


    "You are still young. You have time to think about it."


    "Hm, I''m actually thinking about going to college next year. It''s too late to enroll now, hehe." He said and pushed down the lever of the old water pump.


    This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    "That''s good. A college degree is important."


    For the next two decades, companies would still ask employees for college degrees. They would also ask if the student had two years of work experience...


    But it was still 1999. In this era, companies have come to understand the importance of a college degree. Let''s just say they have a biased opinion about non-college graduates.


    If you don''t have a college degree, you''re nothing but garbage. Society will treat you as garbage. I witnessed so many people who would die just to get college degrees. Seriously.


    That''s pretty prejudiced if you ask me.


    "So what course are you going to take?"


    "Well, I''m thinking engineering. Maybe civil engineering or electrical engineering."


    "If you work hard, you can do it," I said to motivate him.


    Unlike me, who didn''t finish college because I got stuck with Penelope''s panties. I didn''t regret it.


    At the time, I didn''t think college was important. Because I would inherit my parents'' fortune. Maybe I would have a position in one of the companies my father owned.


    Actually, one of the companies belonged to my grandfather. I think my grandfather still owns 25 percent of the construction company.


    "What about you, brother-in-law? What are you going to do with the money?"


    "I want to start a business. Not too big, maybe a restaurant or a bakery."


    "I heard that a restaurant can be very profitable."


    "It depends. If the food is always sold out, then it would not be a problem."


    As a taxi driver, I saw a lot of roadside businesses. Many eateries made money because eating is a must. I also saw some restaurants that closed down after a few months because they could not make a profit.


    Eatery needs a lot of factors to make a big profit. In my opinion, there are two important factors. The location is very important and the taste of the food should be great. If one of these factors doesn''t meet the criteria, the business might fail.


    "See you later, brother-in-law."


    "Okay."


    Santiago carried two gallons of water and returned to the house.


    I took the lever of the water pump and filled the basin. There was no water station near the village.


    So the villagers could only use wells, rivers, ponds, and the water pump. Fortunately, the rivers and ponds were clean and not affected by industrialization.


    Once the new century came, most of the rivers in the country would be polluted...


    I shook my head at the thought.


    Everyone knew it would happen, but no one was really trying to stop it. Organizations that promote environmental protection would only rise up when it was too late.


    Why did I know this? Because that''s what happened in the near future.


    Pasig River was an important river connecting Laguna Bay and Manila Bay. They only cleaned it when the river became uninhabitable for most fishes. The smell of the river became terrible.


    In my opinion, it was too late to clean up the Pasig River. The water was already polluted.


    However, I respect the fact that people joined in and worked hard to clean up the river. It was a commendable act.


    As I finished my thoughts on the environment, I realized that the basin was already full. I stopped pumping and carried the basin back to the room.


    When I returned, I found that Penelope and the children had already had breakfast.


    "Honey, I have bread and coffee."


    "Thanks." I nodded and sat down after placing the basin in the corner of the room.


    "Children, come here. I''ll wash your face first."


    "Mommy, me!" Sophia raised both hands and waved. She wanted to finish the preparations early so they could get to the city quickly.


    "Okay, sweetheart."


    Penelope grunted slightly as she carried Sophia. It seemed that our baby was getting heavier.


    While I ate, Penelope started washing the children''s faces. Sophia was moving around, she could not sit still.


    "Sophia, baby. Please stay still. Don''t waste the water. Do you want Daddy to go out and carry water again?"


    "Yes, Mommy. I want to."


    "..."


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 RDD 39

    Chapter 39


    This house had two bathrooms. It sounds amazing, but these two bathrooms were not enough for nearly 50 people to use. Especially when time was limited.


    "I don''t feel well at all..."


    Penelope muttered next to me. She felt sick because she hadn''t showered yesterday or today. She just washed her hair and wiped her skin.


    "It''s okay," I leaned closer and smelled her neck. My nose brushed against her skin. "You smell nice."


    "Keith Castillo! Don''t ever do that again!" My wife pouted and pushed me away.


    I laughed.


    "I''m not lying. You do smell nice."


    "Humph!" She snorted and fixed her hair. She combed her hair and looked in the mirror.


    "Mommy, so gowgeous!" Sophia put her arms on her mother''s lap. Her mother had just finished washing her face. Her hair was tied up in twin tails.


    Penelope took care of Sophia''s appearance before she took care of herself. After all, Sophia was the hardest to wash because she loved to move.


    "How sweet of my baby~"


    "Hehe."


    "How about you Roman? Are you okay wearing that?" I turned to my son.


    Roman was wearing a T-shirt and pants. But he wasn''t wearing shoes, he preferred to use slippers (Chancla).


    To be honest, he looked comfortable. I wanted to wear slippers too, but I would enter the bank later and it would be embarrassing to wear slippers inside the bank.


    At least you should have the right clothes when you enter the bank.


    What? There''s no such policy? So you expect me to go to the bank, show up in nothing but boxers and slippers, and expect people not to look at me?


    I might as well wear my shoes.


    In this country, we were comfortable wearing slippers inside the house. Even outside the house, we preferred slippers than shoes.


    "I''m fine, Dad. I don''t want to wear shoes, I feel like my feet can''t breathe."


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    When did feet have mouths to breathe? Did they also have their own lungs or something?


    "We have already spoken to Brother Simeon. We should be outside waiting for him before 6:30."


    Penelope looked at her face in the mirror. She thought about putting some blush-on, but decided against it.


    Honey, you don''t have to worry. You''re always beautiful. You don''t need any make-up at all.


    In my opinion, Penelope was born to be Miss Universe. She had a natural beauty that make-up could not replicate.


    Her long eyelashes. Her red eyes. Her soft, smooth skin that I want to kiss every day. She is perfect in my opinion.


    "Everyone ready?" She looked at us.


    "Yes, Mommy." Sophia waved her hands.


    "Hm, the money is here. I already counted it and it is 115 thousand. I left the 4 thousand for us." I replied when my wife looked at me. The envelope was filled with cash.


    "Then let''s go."


    We walked out of the room. As we walked downstairs, the others greeted us with smiles on their faces.


    "Sophia, you''re so cute!"


    "Thank you!"


    One of the aunts touched Sophia''s hand. I understood very well. My daughter''s hands were soft and small, they were adorable.


    "We''ll be back early to help."


    Penelope spoke to her mother.


    "Take your time. This is your first time back in Dagupan after three years, you can look around. You don''t need to worry about us. Besides, your father and I will also go to the city later. We will rent a tricycle as soon as we finish killing the goats." Corazon replied.


    Only Simeon had a tricycle in the family, but their neighbor has one. They could ask them for a ride.


    Life in the village was about helping others and receiving help. The neighbors helped each other.


    "Then we will bring Christmas presents later." Penelope insisted.


    "You don''t have to."


    The mother-daughter pair chatted gently while we waited for Simeon.


    When the tricycle arrived, we said goodbye and boarded the tricycle.


    Then we witnessed the beautiful scenery as we traveled. Roman looked at the river, he was interested in swimming there.


    "The river is cold in the morning, I recommend you to swim at noon so you don''t get cold."


    Penelope spoke to her son. It was probably based on her experience. After all, she grew up here.


    "Maybe I can help you catch eels and fish. I''m pretty good at fishing." Their Uncle Simeon joined in.


    "Eels?" Sophia was confused.


    "You''ve never seen an eel, Sophia? They are delicious. They are long and slippery. Sometimes they are mistaken for snakes, but they are not poisonous."


    "Ugh." Sophia muttered.


    It seemed that our baby didn''t like eels at all.


    We laughed when we saw her reaction. In my past life, I had eaten an eel on a few occasions. They have a soft yet firm texture. Somehow they reminded me of lobster, maybe it was just me.


    A few minutes later we reached the national highway. Our destination was the city next to us.


    Unlike the buildings in Manila, the tallest building in the city was only seven storeys. This place could be called a ''city'', but it was not that kind of city.


    It was different from the capital of the Philippines... This place had better air.


    The air pollution in Manila is terrible. So this place is much better.


    Seeing new places, the children were excited as they looked around.


    "Kids, let''s play after we go to the bank. You must behave or we will come back quickly and I will not allow you to play."


    "Yes, Mommy!"


    "Yes."


    Just like that, Penelope convinced the children to be good.


    We talked to Simeon and decided to meet at the town hall at 10 a.m.


    "It''s almost 7:30, maybe the bank is open."


    "If the bank is still not open, maybe we can find a restaurant and eat while we wait."


    "Yeah, let''s do that."


    [Author''s note: Thanks to the readers who have reached this chapter. I appreciate your patience in reading my imperfect nonsense novel].

 RDD 40

    Chapter 40


    Fortunately, when we went to the BDO bank, it had just opened.


    The guard greeted us with good morning and opened the door. It was Christmas Eve, and everyone was touched by the atmosphere. It was the season of giving.


    Sophia thanked the guard with a wave of her hand. The bank had just opened and we were the first customers.


    I went to the front desk and spoke to the bank manager. The process was quite smooth after I gave them the money and my account number.


    After the process, it was written in my bank book that I had deposited over 100 thousand pesos. I smiled like a fool after seeing this.


    It was the first time in my two lifetimes that I had 100 thousand in my bank account.


    Even my college allowance is not that big.


    Of course, the reason I couldn''t have 100 thousand pesos in my bank account was because I''m a wasteful person.


    I recklessly buy things I want. Hell, I even took my girlfriends to hotels many times just to show how rich I was. Ah, the good old days.


    The bank manager smiled at us before we left.


    "Goodbye Mister Handsome." The bank manager winked.


    Did she just call me handsome. Nah, probably just a flattery.


    "Dad, McDonald''s..."


    After leaving the bank, Roman stopped and looked at a certain restaurant. The BDO bank was close to McDonald''s and Roman found it easily.


    In front of the restaurant, a real clown was waving and handing out flyers. This particular clown was famous in this era.


    "Dajjy, I want to see Wonald the Clown!" Even Sophia protested.


    Well, I''m interested in seeing this clown again, too.


    McDonald''s stopped using this mascot after the 2000s because the movies were affecting its image. Maybe there''s another reason, but I''m not sure. All I can say is that it''s been so long since I''ve seen Ronald the clown.


    Ronald McDonald, the mascot of McDonald''s.


    "Wonald! Wonald!"


    Penelope and I laughed as we watched the children''s reactions. It seemed they wanted to meet the famous clown.


    Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.


    "It''s still early, maybe we can go to the restaurant and eat."


    "Yay!"


    "Mommy, I wuv you!" Sophia hugged her mother.


    "What about me?" I asked.


    "Of course I wuv Dajjy too! Hehe!"


    As we approached, I saw the famous clown from McDonald''s. He saw us coming and smiled.


    Then he gave us a pamphlet with pictures of burgers and fries. I didn''t read it, we were going to eat here anyway. Might as well see the real thing.


    "Hello!"


    "Wah! Wonald!" Sophia was excited and Penelope had no choice but to put her down.


    Sophia ran to the clown and hugged his baggy yellow jeans.


    Ronald smiled, and his demeanor was just like the clowns.


    "Welcome to McDonald''s!"


    "Yay!"


    Unfortunately, I don''t have a camera to take pictures. I have to talk to Penelope before I buy a camera. Now that I think about it, maybe the camera can wait. Let''s earn more money before we buy recreational stuff.


    What? I''m a coward for backing out of my decision. Hey, do you know how much a camera costs? Hah!? Of course I want to take pictures of my kids, that''s why I want to make money fast. Let''s talk about it once we return to Manila.


    After talking to my inner monologue, Sophia and Roman played with Ronald for a few seconds before leaving. Ronald the Clown had a job to do - he had to hand out pamphlets to people.


    We entered the restaurant and sure enough, it was packed. It was Christmas Eve. So a lot of families like us were going out to spend the day before Christmas.


    Fortunately, we found a table that had just become available.


    "Stay here, I''ll order for you."


    "Dad, I want a kiddie meal," Roman said.


    "Me too, Dajjy!"


    "Aren''t you two a little old to be ordering kiddie meals?" I joked.


    "Dad, you''re not funny at all."


    They pouted.


    "Honey, just let the kids choose what they want."


    "All right, kiddie meals for the kids. What about you, wife, what do you want?"


    "I''m good with a burger and fries and a chocolate sundae."


    There was no McFloat in this era because only psychopaths would put ice cream on top of a soda. I don''t even know why people like to eat that shit.


    I''ve never been a fan of Mcfloat, not gonna lie. They are disgusting as shit!


    Whoever came up with the idea of putting ice cream on a Coke can go to hell. He or she definitely has a place in hell.


    I followed the shortest line of people who wanted to order. While I was in line, I looked at their menus and noticed the kiddie meals they were offering.


    "Wow, they are selling Pokemon this time."


    I saw the pictures of the original three Kanto Region Pokemons. They were Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle.


    Unfortunately, they don''t have toys for girls...


    "Hello sir, may I take your order?"


    The cashier asked me when I got to the front.


    "Can I have two orders of burgers and fries? And three kiddie meals?"


    "Yes sir, that will be 253 pesos."


    "Here."


    I gave her a 500 peso bill.


    A few minutes later my order arrived.


    When I returned to our table, the children were excited and hungry. They smiled as I put the plates on the table.


    "Why are there three kiddie meals?" Penelope raised her eyebrows and looked at me.


    "I want to eat one more, but a small portion. So I decided to order a kiddie meal."


    "Isn''t it because you want a toy too?" She asked with a playful look.


    "Of course not."


    I lied under my breath. Anyway, my wife just giggled and shook her head.


    Seeing the kiddie meal, Roman immediately opened the box and found a Bulbasaur.


    "Nice." He grinned.


    As for Sophia, she was a bit skeptical when she realized that she had gotten a Squirtle.


    "I''ll call you Tuwtle from now on." She clearly didn''t like the toy.


    "What about you, honey? Aren''t you going to open your toy?"


    My wife was teasing me... I might as well open it.


    "You leave me no choice, I really don''t like this kind of toy, but oh well."


    "As if." She rolled her eyes.


    I ended up with a Charmander. It has to reach level 36 before it becomes a Charizard.


    What? Wrong reference? I don''t care.

 RDD 41

    [Shout out to Avinash B. Wai Yan B. and haze2343!]


    Chapter 41


    Eating McDonald''s early in the morning was pretty heavy, so we decided to take it slow.


    "Honey, I think I saw a photo print shop over there."


    As we walked, Penelope tugged on my shirt and pointed to the store a few feet away from us. The shop had a sign that said they took pictures and printed them.


    "What do you think? Let''s take a picture." She smiled.


    I was not sure if Penelope had read my mind earlier or if it was just a coincidence. But I gladly agreed. After all, I want to take pictures too.


    "Kids, are you okay with taking pictures?"


    "Pwictures? Dajjy, what is that?"


    Sophia asked confused.


    "They are thick papers that print your images. Remember your baby pictures we showed you last time? We will get those."


    "Wow! Okay okay! Dajjy, let''s go! I want everyone to see how cwute I am! Dajjy quick!"


    We both laughed at Sophia''s reaction. It seemed she was excited to see her face in the picture.


    "Let''s go, Roman. This is a rare moment for us to take pictures."


    Penelope invited her son, who was too engrossed in his Bulbasaur toy.


    We entered the shop. We asked for a quick print of the pictures. Fortunately, there were few customers, and it didn''t take long for us to enter the shooting room.


    "Madam, sir, these are our formal clothes. You can choose whatever you want."


    It was good that this store could let us wear formal clothes. If I''m not mistaken, this whole photo-shooting process would take us two hours at best.


    Penelope helped the kids get dressed first. Roman wore a suit, just like me, while Sophia wore a cute dress.


    "Wow. Miss, you have beautiful skin."


    "Thank you."


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    "I have to use all my power to give you a total makeover!"


    The makeup artist and my wife began to talk. The make-up artist did her best.


    In my opinion, Penelope is already beautiful.


    The makeup artist adjusted her hair and dress.


    "Honey, how are you?" I asked, staring at her after the makeup artist was done.


    My wife was...


    My eyes trembled as I saw her. My wife was wearing a white cocktail dress and she looked stunning!


    Oh my God, I feel like my blood is boiling for some reason.


    If you ask me what I''m going to do now. My answer is simple... I want to have sex with my wife.


    I want to push her to the ground while she is wearing the white dress. I''m acting like a hooligan! Damn it!


    My lips twitched for some reason as I stared at her.


    "Honey, are you okay? Why are you looking at me like that? Is there something on my face?"


    She asked me. She seemed confused.


    "No, it''s nothing. I''m just saying you''re beautiful."


    I just shook my head. I didn''t want to tell her I was thirsty.


    "Keith Castillo. You and your flattery."


    She rolled her eyes, but she was obviously pleased with what I said.


    "Mommy so cwute!"


    Sophia hugged her.


    "Mommy, carry~"


    "Yes, sweetie."


    "Looks like everything''s ready. Then let''s get started."


    The cameraman led us to the seating arrangement. My wife and I sat on the chair. Roman was in the center, standing between us. Then Sophia was in her mother''s arms, smiling naturally into the camera.


    "Three, two, one."


    The camera flash came.


    Then the cameraman told us to take one more pose.


    This time, my wife and I were standing next to each other, with the two children sitting in the chair in front of us. We looked like a happy family.


    The photographer was satisfied after taking a few pictures. The photo shoot was over and we returned the formal attire to the store.


    A few minutes later, the pictures came out and we received them.


    The whole photoshoot cost us a thousand pesos... Too expensive to be honest. But I didn''t regret it.


    I saw my wife wearing a beautiful dress and I have pictures of it! Definitely worth it.


    The store gave us the pictures along with the film. We could use the film to print the pictures if we wanted bigger sizes.


    We got four 4x6 and three 5x7 inch pictures. The resolution was high and our expressions were clear.


    Our attention was on the pictures. It seemed that we were all happy. We looked like a rich family in the pictures, hehe.


    Especially, my wife, she was beautiful in her dress. I''m happy that the camera caught a glimpse of her beauty and imprinted it on these papers. No one can beat the real beauty in front of me.


    I thought and looked at my wife who was looking at the pictures. As a woman, she naturally wanted to see her face as beautiful in the pictures.


    I could tell from her smile that she liked them.


    "Then let''s go. We promised to buy Christmas gifts for your cousins."


    The day was early and we had plenty of time before going back to the town hall.


    I wonder what Simeon is doing right now. He got his share of the money after all.


    The city had a shopping mall, but it was only three stories. But it was wide and we could see different kinds of shops inside.


    Because it was Christmas Eve, there were a lot of people.


    We walked a few meters and found a place where we could buy gifts for the children - a toy store. Yes, I''m talking about the forgotten Toys R Us.


    I heard that this company went bankrupt.


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 RDD 42

    [Kudos to Vasyl ?, ryan k, Dave m, Huy G, and The Real Cacto]


    Chapter 42


    Toys R Us was a famous company selling, well, toys. They have stores all over America and of course in the Philippines.


    They filed for bankruptcy in 2018</a> after losing the competition to other companies. After years of intense price competition from mass retailers Walmart, Amazon, and Target... They lost the battle.


    In my opinion, the reason they lost was because they didn''t diversify. They should have followed the trend and gone online. To sell their products by creating a website. I don''t know if it was possible because I''m not part of the management. But it was obvious that people would rather buy online than go to a store.


    Just like Blockbuster...


    Well, fuck that company. Renting tapes and CDs is a fucking hassle. I''m glad Netflix killed that company.


    Can''t you imagine? The owner of Netflix tried to sell the company to Blockbuster, but Blockbuster laughed it off. Hah! Serves them right.


    Now Blockbuster hit the rock bottom.


    Well, movie piracy was very strong in the Philippines and we didn''t like Blockbuster at all.


    Even I would rather buy pirated movies than the original, it was much cheaper.


    I chuckled for unknown reasons as we entered the store.


    As I expected, what you see in a toy store are toys... Duh.


    Roman and Sophia were clearly excited as they looked around at all the toys on display.


    "Honey, I will take Sophia to the girls'' section. Please take care of Roman."


    Penelope carried the excited Sophia to the other side of the store. Where girly and pinky things glamorously shone. My eyes hurt from looking at the endless pink products.


    "Don''t worry, honey."


    Then I turned my attention to my son, who was drooling all over the giant Gundams...


    I swallowed.


    Actually, even I was drooling.


    Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.


    Is that from the Gundam Seed?


    My memory was quite fuzzy, the last time I watched Gundam Seed was when I was 3 years old. I''m talking about my other past.


    "Dad..." Roman looked at me.


    Unfortunately, I shook my head. This Gundam was one meter tall and it would be inconvenient to buy it and bring it to Manila. We are going to use a public bus.


    "We can buy it in Manila. You have to understand that it will be difficult to bring this thing to Manila. Even carrying it would be a problem. Do you think you can carry it?"


    I can buy an energy pill and carry it. However, the space on the bus would be a problem even if I could carry it.


    "Okay..." Roman nodded his head reluctantly and looked around instead.


    "Let''s find another toy, something we can carry without any problems. Also, you promise your cousins that you will give them toys."


    "Okay, Dad!"


    He became energetic after remembering his promise.


    I followed my son to the booths where there were hundreds, if not thousands, of different toys.


    I even saw Superman and Batman costumes. It was still 1999</a> and the first Spider-Man movie would be released in 2002</a>. Kids still prefer Batman and Superman to Spider-Man and all the other Marvel heroes.


    "Dad, I think I know what present to get them."


    I followed his gaze and found a classic toy.


    Yo-Yo.


    We definitely like Yo-Yo in the Philippines. There''s no boy who hasn''t touched yo-yo in his whole life, unless he was born after 2010</a>.


    Because I tell you, in my elementary days, yo-yo was really famous.


    "Are you sure you know how to play yo-yo? You''re still five, you''re much shorter than the whole height of Yo-Yo."


    "Dad... I hate you."


    Hey, don''t give me that cold look. Kind of scary.


    "Okay, fine, I will buy... ten pieces of yo-yos."


    If I''m not mistaken, we have seven boys living in the house.


    "What about you Dad? Do you even know how to play yo-yo?" He grinned.


    I rubbed his hair with a bit of force.


    "Kid, you''re still young. You don''t know that I can do tricks with the yo-yo."


    "Really? Like what?"


    "I know how to play ''Around the World'' and ''Walking the Dog.


    "Dad, do you just make this stuff up?"


    "..."


    This kid. He obviously doesn''t know how to play Yo-Yo.


    Anyway, with my son''s cold gaze, I decided to buy ten yo-yos.


    Roman also urged me to buy a lightsaber and Rayban sunglasses from ''The Matrix''.


    It seemed like Toys R Us was promoting those movies.


    I almost choked up laughing when I saw Roman wearing sunglasses while holding a glowing lightsaber.


    "Do you even know what ''The Matrix'' is?"


    "No," Roman shook his head. "But I saw other kids wearing sunglasses and black leather jackets."


    "Indeed."


    As for Star Wars, the influence of that franchise was not as strong. But there were still avid fans who watched and supported it.


    They don''t know that 20 years later, Disney will screw up Star Wars just to make a profit from the fans.


    I feel sorry for those people.


    Fuck Disney. They force children to accept their ideologies with their so-called ''children''s movies''.


    Even Pixar has become ''liberated''. Their last movie was about a girl twerking on her mother. What the fuck?


    The worst part was that Disney and Pixar made money even though their movies were bad.


    While waiting for Sophia and Penelope, Roman decided to swing his lightsaber.


    "Roman, don''t do anything bad. You might hurt yourself."


    "Okay Dad."


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 RDD 43

    Chapter 43


    After Penelope helped Sophia choose her toy, which as expected was Barbie, we decided to return to Corazon''s house.


    It was 9:30 by the time we were done. December 24th was obviously a busy day and we saw a lot of people walking around.


    When we arrived at the city hall, Simeon and his tricycle were waiting for us.


    "I''m sorry. Have you been waiting long, brother?" Penelope asked.


    "No, I just got here," Simeon said, putting two kilos of pork chops on the tricycle.


    Pork was one of the main sources of meat in the Philippines, along with chicken. In fact, cow and goat meat were not usually eaten. They were expensive, unlike pork and chicken.


    "It looks like you had a good time. That''s good." He smiled and rubbed Sophia''s head. The little girl giggled as she let Simeon pat her.


    "Then let''s go home."


    "Okay."


    Early in the morning, we accomplished what we needed most. We deposited the money safely in the bank and spent our time together. We ate at a famous restaurant... Well, a famous fast food restaurant, and bought Pokemons and other toys.


    Seeing my kids happy with what they got made me happy too. We returned to the house smiling.


    ..........


    .......


    ...


    When we got there, everyone was already awake and getting ready for Christmas.


    -- mmweekk--!


    "Ah--!"


    Sophia almost yelped as a sudden scream came through.


    "M- mommy, what''s that?"


    "Honey, don''t worry about it. It''s just noise."


    Penelope hushed and rocked Sophie to calm her. Sophia nodded reluctantly, though she was scared and curious.


    "Looks like Father''s killing the goats." Simeon shrugged after seeing the little girl''s reaction.


    "Goats?"


    I was surprised.


    Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    Is that how a goat screams when it is being slaughtered? I have only heard a pig''s deafening scream, but never a goat''s.


    I was also very curious.


    "Is that how goats scream?"


    Roman was curious as well.


    "Yes."


    "Dad, I want to see it!"


    Huh?


    I frowned at Roman. Was he really curious to see a goat being killed?


    I was young when I first saw a chicken being slaughtered. And to be honest, I felt nothing. Instead of feeling sad about the chicken''s death, I felt grateful that I had a delicious chicken to eat.


    My past self was born in the middle class family, and our life was never easy.


    Have you ever eaten a bowl of rice with only salt in it? I have.


    There were times when I had to drink water because it was the only thing we had. Even eating three times a day was a blessing. Hell, I even salvaged food from garbage dumps.


    So eating meat was a luxury when I was young. Fortunately, my father decided to work overseas just to give us a good life. I respect my father a lot, I know how hard it was to work in a foreign country where you don''t speak the language.


    Just to give us a better life, my father did everything.


    Suddenly, a single tear rolled from my eye. I remembered those moments... I miss my parents, I feel guilty that I never repay my parents. My heart felt heavy.


    "Honey?"


    Penelope looked worried as she approached me.


    "No, I''m fine."


    Look at me. The subject ranged from goats being killed to my past family. Sometimes my inner monologue jumped really far.


    "Hm." Penelope nodded, but it was obvious that she was worried.


    "I won''t stop Roman, but Sophia is not allowed."


    Roman was already old and he understood the reason why we were killing goats.


    "Okay, Dad." Roman ran off and went to his grandfather.


    I carried our things and took Sophia back to the room.


    Sophia yawned and closed her eyes weakly. She is a baby and usually sleeps every afternoon. Penelope prepared her little bed and laid Sophia down. The little girl slept peacefully. Maybe she was happy to have another Barbie.


    "Are you okay, honey?"


    After making sure Sophia was asleep, Penelope approached me with concern. She hugged me from behind.


    "I''m fine. I just remembered something."


    I shrugged as she wrapped her arms around me. I held her hands.


    "I love you."


    "I love you too." I smiled at that.


    People said that saying "I love you" to your loved ones was awkward, embarrassing and cringe. But in my opinion, being honest with my wife was the best decision I ever made in my life.


    I will never get tired of telling her how much I love her.


    I turned and faced my wife. Then I kissed her from her forehead to her lips.


    My lips touched hers for a millisecond. Then my wife advanced and kissed me tenderly. We began to make out in the room.


    "Mmm~" She gasped weakly.


    Of course, we didn''t go that far. We are adults. It would be stupid to make out while our daughter is sleeping next to us. As her parents, we want to show her proper parenting.


    "I''m going to look for Roman."


    "Hm." Penelope nodded.


    She was breathing heavily after an intense kiss. She smiled at me and hugged me again.


    For unknown reasons, my hands were possessed by the devil. I unconsciously grabbed her ass and gripped the cheeks!


    "!!!"


    Penelope was surprised and almost pushed me away. But maybe she remembered that I was depressed, so she stayed still and let me feel.


    "I''m sorry, I never know my hands will do it."


    I immediately apologized, but when I saw Penelope with teary eyes and a bright red face, I swallowed hard.


    "Go." She muttered and I decided to leave.


    We both know that if we take one more step, there is a chance that we will do it until the end.


    ... I don''t know if it''s a good thing that I have a condom in my wallet or not.


    I smiled bitterly... I need to rest for a few seconds to calm my ''nerves''.


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 RDD 44

    [Shout out to Dave, Warslide, DragonEz, and Nikola N!]


    Chapter 44


    I took a deep breath and calmed down. It would be embarrassing if Penelope''s relatives found me with a hard tent.


    After a few seconds of internal monologue, I went downstairs. I found seven people already chopping the meat.


    "Oi Keith. How''s your trip going?"


    Penelope''s younger brother greeted me(I don''t remember his name, I only know Simeon and Santiago).


    Everyone was obviously happy and active. After all, each family had received a large Christmas gift from Corazon and Alberto.


    "It''s okay. We decided to eat at McDonald''s and take the kids to a toy store. By the way, you can tell your kids to come see us tomorrow, we have Christmas presents for them."


    "You don''t have to do that, the kids are already happy if you give them 5 pesos, haha!"


    I smiled and didn''t answer.


    5 pesos? Dude, that is too little. Christmas is about sharing and caring, giving them toys will make them happy.


    Of course, I''m not belittling 5 pesos. It is enough to buy a handful of bread, enough to fill a stomach.


    "Do you need help?"


    "We''re fine here, but I think Father needs help outside."


    "Okay."


    The kitchen had a pathway outside so it was easy to carry water into the kitchen.


    A few steps and I was outside, then I found Roman standing a few feet away from Alberto and the others.


    "Hey, why are you standing there?"


    I approached Roman and rubbed his hair. I don''t know why, but my hand always moves by itself and rubs his hair. Sometimes I also rub Sophia''s head.


    "I''m only standing here because Uncle and Grandpa told me that the goat might escape and attack me."


    "Is that so? Then why don''t you go back to our room? You can play with your new toys."


    "No, I want to stay here. They are going to kill the ducks next, I want to see it."


    Stolen story; please report.


    "Why?"


    "Because it looks interesting."


    "All right, all right, just don''t be Dexter Morgan."


    "Dexter who? Dad, sometimes you act weird, are you okay?"


    Kid, I should be the one to ask you that.


    Since Roman wanted to watch them kill the goats and ducks, I decided to leave him alone. Kids are very curious these days.


    "Keith, looks like you came. Help us scrub the goats and shave their hair." Simeon nodded at me.


    "Alright."


    I kneeled down and helped them. We soaked the goat in the hot water first and then began to clean and shave it.


    Roman and the other children watched curiously. After a few minutes of watching, they lost interest and decided to play tag instead.


    Roman''s cousins invited him to join their game, and he easily agreed. So while we were killing ducks and goats, the kids were playing around. A pretty normal scene if you ask me.


    Hours went by and we completely butchered the meat. Then I helped my brother-in-laws chop some firewood.


    Alberto made a stove with stones to cook outside. We''re going to cook a lot of food, so two stoves were needed. One in the kitchen and one outside.


    I have seen people cooking with a homemade stove using stones as a base.


    "Father decided to cook goat stew (kalderetang kambing) and curry. As for the goat skin and ears, we''ll make kilawing kambing."


    "Oh, that will be delicious."


    My mouth watered when I heard what Simeon said. Especially kilawing kambing, that dish was good with beer or any alcohol... Damn, I suddenly feel like I can''t keep my promise.


    Kilawing kambing plus alcohol was a dangerous combination, I might drink one...


    "Hey Keith, we have coconut palm liquor. Do you want to drink?"


    One of Penelope''s brothers invited me to take a sip. He offered me a glass.


    "I..."


    My hand almost took the cup, but I stopped when I noticed my wife staring at me from the window with deep crimson eyes.


    "N- no, I think I''ll pass. Hehe."


    I started sweating.


    "Is that so? That''s kind of sad."


    "Drinking makes me lose myself and I promise my wife I won''t touch alcohol."


    My palms were sweating as I smiled forcibly. My lips twitched.


    I glanced at the window and noticed that Penelope was gone.


    Did she fall asleep?


    The answer to my question came as I saw my wife approach me. It seemed that she had decided to protect me from dangerous alcoholic drinks.


    "Honey~"


    "Y- Yes." I stammered for some unknown reason.


    Penelope wrapped her arms around me and looked at me playfully.


    "What are you doing~" She asked with a not so friendly smile.


    "I''m helping Simeon build a fire."


    "I see. Then why did I almost see you drinking, hm?" She squeezed my arm lightly.


    "Of course not, I''m just stretching my arms."


    "But that''s not what I saw."


    "..."


    "Keith Castillo, try drinking alcohol and you know what happens."


    "..."


    "I will not let you sleep next to me."


    "!!"


    She is threatening me! Blackmail, what a black-hearted woman!


    "I promise I will never drink!"


    I had no choice. Sleeping next to my wife was the most comfortable thing ever.


    I can''t believe she would use that weapon against me. She''s really bad.


    Her brothers overheard our conversation and kept their mouths shut.


    I realized something important, they were afraid of Penelope. I didn''t know the exact reason, but I can empathize. I''m afraid of my wife too.


    In the end, I was tortured by watching them drink happily while I drank Coca-Cola instead. Not bad, to be honest.


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 RDD 45

    Chapter 45


    [This is a 3rd person PoV.]


    Time passed and evening came. They had already cooked all the food and set the tables.


    Keith and Penelope helped Corazon and Alberto set the plates. The goat, duck, chicken, and pork dishes were on the table, ready to be enjoyed.


    The children were excited when they saw a two-layer cake in the middle of the table. Even though they had never had Black Forest cake before, they knew it was delicious.


    "I''ve only seen a big cake like this on TV..." One of them muttered, and the others agreed.


    "Simeon, did you buy this cake?" Corazon looked at his son.


    "Yes, Mother. There was a bakery in town that sells cakes, and I ordered this cake two days ago."


    "So you''re sure you''ll have the money and you''ve already ordered this cake. What will you do if we don''t get the money yesterday?"


    "Mother, I have money. I can afford a cake like this once in a while." Simeon shrugged.


    Everyone had money and could buy many things if they wanted. Corazon and Alberto decided to use their own money to put food on the table. They didn''t ask their children to provide and contribute. They were the parents and it was their responsibility to feed their children. Even though they were all adults.


    In fact, only Simeon and Penelope had bought food to contribute on Christmas Eve.


    Simeon bought the large two-layer cake. While Penelope''s side bought Edam cheese (Queso De Bola), ham, and fruit.


    As for the other families, they didn''t think about contributing. Because they know that their parents just received a million pesos.


    "Okay, it''s already 10:30. Let''s eat now." Corazon clapped her hands.


    "Let''s pray for grace before we eat." She added and began to pray.


    A few seconds later...


    "Let''s eat!"


    The children, like hungry animals, began to ask their parents what they wanted to eat. Most of them wanted the cake, cheese and fruit. Even the adults fought over the sweets.


    A few minutes later, the cake and cheese had already lost 2/3 of their size.


    Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.


    "Mommy, I want some cake too."


    "Me too, Mom."


    "Don''t worry, your Dad is already cutting cake and cheese for you."


    Keith Castillo approached them with a large plate filled with dishes and fruit.


    "This is for the kids, I''ll get another one for the two of us," Keith said after placing the plate in front of the children.


    The food on the plate was too much and both parents know that Sophia and Roman could never eat it all. Whenever there was food left over, Keith Castillo ate it.


    Wasting food was a sin. Many people are starving right now, and having food on the table was a blessing.


    After another round of taking food, Keith returned with two plates for himself and his wife.


    The atmosphere was lively. Everyone took their time eating these delicious delicacies.


    It didn''t take long before the cake and fruit were gone. There were almost fifty people in the house and everyone wanted to eat.


    "Tch, Simeon, why didn''t you buy another cake? Look what happened, the cake is already gone and I haven''t even tasted it yet!"


    Se?orita glared at her brother and clenched her teeth in anger. The family was poor and eating cake was almost impossible, of course Se?orita wanted to eat it.


    "I''m sorry, sister."


    "Tch! Once I buy my own cake, don''t ever try to ask me for a piece."


    "You''ll never give me one anyway."


    Simeon whispered as he ate. Everyone knew that Se?orita was the stingiest of them all. She would rather ask her parents for food than use her money.


    "Senorita, I''m warning you. Tomorrow is Christmas, don''t waste it playing poker and mahjong. You will only lose your money gambling."


    "Mother, I''m already old. I don''t need your lessons, I know what I''m doing."


    Se?orita loved to gamble, and she usually lost her money gambling. In fact, it was her husband who encouraged her to gamble. He said that gambling relieved stress. That''s bullshit.


    Se?orita''s husband was a farmer and worked on their farm. Now that they have money, Se?orita and her husband decided to go to the city and live there. They can live in the wet market because Se?orita sold vegetables there.


    "Dad, look."


    While the Christmas Eve party was going on, Roman found someone sulking in the corner.


    A little boy was wiping away his tears. He was holding a broken Beyblade, almost as if he had lost his loved ones.


    "Is that Billy?"


    Billy, Se?orita''s son, was crying in grief.


    "Hey Billy, what happened to you? Why are you crying?"


    Penelope was worried about her little nephew. Billy was the same age as Roman, but he was smaller and thinner, almost as if his parents never fed him properly.


    "A- Aunt Penelope... Sniff sniff... Wwuuuuu, mother destroyed my Beyblade." He was heartbroken.


    "Why did she do that?"


    "Hick... Hick... I don''t know."


    "Here, let''s eat first. Sophia had some left over cake, you can eat it. Don''t worry, it''s not dirty."


    "Thank you, Auntie..."


    The boy began to eat, crying with tears. Penelope rubbed his head anxiously.


    "Hey, Billy! You didn''t say you had a cake! Give it to me. I''m your mother, I didn''t try it earlier. Come on!"


    Se?orita looked at her son.


    "Yes..." Billy looked down and approached her awkwardly.


    "Huh!"


    Penelope and Keith watched the whole scene and didn''t know how to react. Se?orita was being outrageous right now.


    Unfortunately, Keith and Penelope were only the aunt and uncle. It would only be detrimental to talk to Se?orita knowing that the woman had a grumpy attitude.


    Keith whispered to Roman.


    "Roman, I remember we bought a yo-yo for Billy. Give it to him tomorrow, but make sure Se?orita doesn''t see it."


    "Yes, Dad."


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 RDD 46

    [Shout out to Arka B, Herson B, Toros S, Chris A, Mariano R, Bast Z, Roberto Morse D, Lochemage, Kenura P, JSC, Britanna, Sulaik Ullah, Shadow, Gold Demon and Mandy G!]


    Chapter 46


    "Ha...--"


    I yawned after a short nap. The Christmas Eve party was exhausting, it ended around 3 am. We obviously didn''t get enough sleep.


    Sophia and Roman didn''t even make it to midnight to greet Christmas. They fell asleep quickly after eating a delicious meal. Unlike them, Penelope and I stayed up all night to join the party. Of course, we didn''t want to be called party poopers, so my wife made sure I didn''t touch any alcohol.


    Penelope knew the consequences if I got drunk.


    I weakly stretched my body after a soft moan. I tell you, there''s something good about stretching in the morning. I feel like every fiber in my body is invigorated.


    As I expected, everyone was still asleep except me. Penelope had her head on my shoulder and her arm on my chest like I was a pillow.


    Luckily, my right hand was free and I easily grabbed my phone. I checked the time and noticed that it was already 8 am... So we basically slept for five hours, I guess.


    I was still yawning and I felt like I didn''t have the will to get up. So I closed my eyes again and hugged my wife.


    "Mm."


    She mumbled in her sleep as I put my arms around her. She smells good and her body is soft. How can a person be so fragile and soft?


    We stayed like this for a few minutes when a sound came from outside.


    "Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle all the way~"


    "Oh, what fun it is to ride"


    "In a one-horse open sleigh, hey!"


    The neighborhood children began to sing Christmas carols outside the house.


    "Hm?"


    Penelope started to wake up from the noise. She looked at me and smiled weakly.


    "Merry Christmas."


    "Merry Christmas."


    We greeted each other. Her face was so close to mine that she licked her lips and then... pushed me away.


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    "Looks like the children are singing."


    She got up and looked out the window. She saw children in their brand new clothes. Clanging homemade musical instruments.


    "Merry Christmas, kids!"


    We heard the door open and Corazon greeted the children. It seemed that she had given the children Christmas gifts because they thanked her excitedly.


    "Thank you, Grandma Corazon! Merry Christmas!"


    "Come on, let''s go to the next house!"


    The children in this village knew each other. There were only about 50 houses in the village, and each one was some distance from the next.


    Corazon laughed heartily and decided to open the door. A few minutes later, I heard movement in the house.


    Because of the Christmas carols, the other families realized that it was already morning.


    Even Roman woke up.


    "Mom... I want to eat cake."


    I almost laughed when I heard his answer. It seemed that Roman had fallen in love with Black Forest cake last night.


    "Oh sweetie, we will buy it when we get back to town. Don''t worry, we''ll stay until the new year and you''ll have time to eat it again."


    She approached her son and wiped the dirt from his eyes. By the way, what do you call the accumulated fluid around the eyes after a good night''s sleep, is it eye goo or sleepy dust?


    "Thanks, Mom."


    Roman was easily reconciled.


    "I promised Billy and the others that I will go with them today. We will sing Christmas carols to each house to earn money."


    Here in the Philippines, children are given money every Christmas. They can casually sing in front of a stranger''s house and receive money.


    Christmas was an important part of their lives because they will receive a lot of money to buy toys.


    I remember when I was a child, I asked my uncle for a Christmas present and he gave me a remote control car... Now that I think about it, it''s kind of cheap considering that Uncle owns a tire company and repair shops.


    I should have asked for a remote control helicopter toy.


    Hell, if I asked, maybe he would give me a real car.


    I was the youngest child in the family, and both my grandparents loved me. Maybe that is why I grew up as an arrogant, spoiled person.


    I understood it very well.


    Roman wiped off his sweat, changed his clothes, and excitedly ate the rest of the food.


    "Roman, make sure you stay with your cousins. They know this place better than you do. And don''t go into the field, sometimes there are snakes there."


    Snakes? I''m afraid of snakes!


    "Yes, Mom."


    Roman nodded seriously. He knew that his mother would be angry if she found out that Roman didn''t follow her orders. Especially going into the fields... I don''t like snakes at all.


    I can deal with rats and insects, but snakes are different. Let''s hope this isn''t a foreshadowing, because damn it.


    Roman''s cousins knocked on the door asking for Roman. Our son greeted them with a Merry Christmas and followed them out of the house.


    "Roman, remember what I told you. Stay with your cousins."


    "Yes, I will, Mom."


    He waved his hand and walked off with his cousins.


    "Do you want some coffee, honey? I''ll come down and make you some coffee if you want."


    "Thanks honey, I like it black," I replied.


    "I don''t know how you can like something so bitter." She frowned.


    "Hey, who drank coffee rice last time? I think it''s more bitter and tasteless." I chuckled.


    "I''ll get you some bread too. I think there''s some leftover bread in the kitchen."


    "It''s in the closet."


    It was Christmas, and the children were having the best day of their lives. As for us adults, this was our day of rest. Especially after a night of partying.


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 RDD 47

    [Shout out to Conor H and ABDI A!]


    Chapter 47


    Sophia woke up right after Penelope came down to make coffee.


    "Dajjy? Where''s Mommy and bwother?" She rubbed her face adorably after waking up.


    I sat down beside her and helped her stand up.


    "Mommy went to get coffee. As for your big brother Roman, he went outside with your cousins."


    "Why?"


    Sophia was still sleepy from just waking up. She leaned against me and yawned.


    We went to the city yesterday and it seemed that Sophia was still tired. Also, they slept late last night and my children were not used to sleeping late. We always make sure they are asleep before 10 pm. Their bodies need proper sleep at a young age.


    "Roman and your cousins are going to the neighborhood to sing Christmas carols to get money."


    "Huh? Dajjy, what does that mean?"


    She looked at me with her big blue eyes, she was interested in Christmas carols.


    "Children sing carols every Christmas and people give them money."


    "How much money can bwother make singing Christmas cawols? Is it enough for bwother to buy toys, like many toys?"


    "Yes, maybe your brother will have 200 pesos when he comes back."


    "Wow! So bwother is already working at such a young age. Dajjy, you bad person, you let bwother work instead of doing it yourself."


    I chuckled and rubbed her head.


    "Sweetheart, I can''t do those things because I''m already an adult. Only children can do that."


    "Then what about me?"


    She tilted her head very cutely.


    "Of course you can, too."


    "Then why did bwother leave me?... Does bwother hate me? Why didn''t he take me? I want money too! Waaahhh! Waahhh!" She suddenly cried out loud.


    "S- Sweetheart, you''re too young. We can''t let you go out without supervision."


    I stammered as I explained with deep concern. It was early in the morning and Sophia was already crying.


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    "Wwuuuu Dajjy doesn''t wuv me! Wuuuuu!"


    "This..."


    I don''t know what to do.


    "Hush hush, baby. That''s not true. You know Daddy loves you." I said and took her in my arms, rocking her little body to calm my little princess.


    "Then why did you let bwother join them while I was left here all alone with nothing to do? You bad guy! Bad guy! Hmph! Wuuuuu wuuuuu wuuu--!"


    She wouldn''t stop crying, even though I did my best to rock her to sleep. It was early in the morning and I was already sweating because of nervousness, but Sophia was still sobbing. I feel bad.


    "Baby Sophia, how about we play games instead? Yes, we can spend time with Princess Tia."


    "Aria! Her name is Pwincess Aria!"


    She shouted at me.


    "Yes yes, Pwincess Aria, we can play with her. How about it?"


    "Wuuuuu wuuuuu wuuuuuu! Mommy! Mommy! Dajjy''s making fun of me! Mommy! Where''s Mommy!?"


    This is getting bad. Sophia started calling her mother, and I know the consequences once Penelope finds out I made Sophia cry.


    "Sweetie, sweetie! How about another toy? Daddy will buy you another toy! And cake too, if you want!"


    "Hick hick, weally? Dajjy''s going to buy me toys and cakes?"


    "Yes, lots of toys and cakes!"


    "I want what we had last night! It was dewicious."


    "Daddy promise!" I nodded twice to show my sincerity.


    "Pinky swear."


    She gave me her pinky finger, and I wrapped my finger around it.


    "Hehe, Dajjy you better keep your pwomise or I will tell Mommy."


    "What are you going to tell me?"


    "!!!"


    Both Sophia and I jumped in surprise when we heard Penelope''s voice.


    We turned to see Penelope standing at the door. She was holding a plate with three cups.


    "Sophia, why are your eyes red? Hm, tell Mommy."


    She put the plate on the table and teased Sophia.


    "N- No! Mommy, I''m fine. Mommy, I wuv you, I wuv you!"


    "Aww, my sweet little angel. I don''t know why you''re telling me this, but Mommy loves you too."


    "Hehe!"


    Penelope hugged and cuddled Sophia and tickled her stomach.


    But while she was tickling Sophia, I noticed that Penelope was giving me a cold look.


    I swallowed hard.


    She knew what had happened...


    She seemed to have heard Sophia''s scream and returned quickly.


    I''m probably dead after this.


    I sighed and reached for my coffee. As expected, it tasted like shit. Black coffee early in the morning was the best way to gain vitality. After all, everyone will act wild after tasting a shitty, bitter coffee.


    I looked at the mother and child. It seemed like Sophia had already adjusted. She was not sad that her brother had left her.


    Although I will have to explain everything to Penelope later.


    "Baby, I made milk for you."


    "Hehe, but Mommy. I like your milk better! Mommy, I want to drink your milk, I miss your milk!"


    "Puff--!"


    I spit out my coffee when I heard what Sophia said. I looked at my wife and noticed that Penelope was staring at me with blushing cheeks.


    "What are you looking at?"


    "N- Nothing!"


    I replied, turning around.


    "Baby, you have to understand that Mommy has stopped breastfeeding. No matter how much you drink from my breasts, it''s impossible to get milk again."


    "Why?"


    "Because I have already given you all my milk."


    "Is that so? Then how can you make more milk? Mommy, I really want to drink your milk again!"


    Sophia, you have to stop or your wish might come true.


    There was only one way for Penelope to lactate again...


    Well, ahem, if she wants, I can help her with that problem.


    I looked at my wife and she was obviously embarrassed as well. She began to explain things in a mild way without making things dirty.


    Thankfully, Sophia reluctantly agreed and drank the cow''s milk instead. As a baby, she wanted to be in her mother''s cradle and feel her warmth. Maybe that was why she wanted to drink Penelope''s milk again.


    Anyway, let''s be good to Penelope for now. I don''t want her to be angry with me...


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 RDD 48

    [Shout out to michael, TheFuzzySamurai, Apathetic Loner, Hyuga Tobirama, and DreuxX!]


    Chapter 48


    Before noon came, Roman and his cousins already returned. They were carrying their loot after a successful caroling. It seemed that they earned a lot considering that they were grinning.


    Even for Roman who was usually quiet, he was talking well with his cousins. He approached us and found that Sophia was glaring at him hatefully.


    "Sophia? Why are you mad?"


    "Humph! Bwother bad! Bad! Bad!"


    She said three times, emphasizing that her brother was bad...


    "What did I do?"


    "Humph! I hate bwother! I don''t wuv you anymore!" She scoffed and hugged her mother.


    "Only Mommy wuv me!" She stated.


    ''Hey! What about me? I promised you another toy, why don''t you love me then?''


    I know that using money to buy love was bad but I didn''t have a choice, or else my daughter will not love me.


    Ah, the perks of being a father-- stress, work, and not being loved and appreciated by your children.


    "Okay then," Roman answered without any problem. He entered the room and started putting out his earnings.


    "What? Mommy, wwuuuu wuuuu, bwother doesn''t wuv me!"


    Realizing that her snobbish attitude didn''t work on her brother, Sophia decided to use her greatest weapon-- tattle on her mother.


    "Baby, your brother is just joking."


    "Wuuuu wuuuu--!"


    While Sophia was being a drama queen, Roman put all of his earnings on the bed. He started counting them, he didn''t even look at teary Sophia... My son might be a heartless person. I can''t believe that he ignored his sister just like that.


    "123, 124... 131."


    Roman finished counting his money. It seemed that he had more than 100 pesos in his hand.


    "That''s kinda small..." I muttered.


    "What do you mean Dad? I never have had 100 pesos in my entire life. This is big money."


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    Indeed. Maybe for the kids, this amount was already big.


    ''Well, this a small village, and most families were farmers. They can''t give a lot. Their buying power is smaller compared to people in the city.''


    Well, 100 pesos is still a lot. I can buy three kilograms of rice with that amount.


    "Waaahhh--! Bwother bad! Very bad! Very bad!"


    This time, Sophia emphasized that Roman was ''very'' bad. It means one thing, Roman was very bad...


    "Why didn''t you take me with you? You don''t love me anymore!" She cried and clutched her mother''s dress while glaring at Roman.


    "You''re still asleep at that time. Besides, you are too young to join us. Can''t you see that we''re all 5 years old and older? You have to be older before going outside." Roman explained it well and his reason was understandable.


    "Still..." Sophia''s eyes reddened because she already cried earlier. My poor princess.


    "Here, I''ll give you half of my earnings," Roman said and gave Sophia 50 pesos cash.


    "Bwother I wuv you!"


    ''What? Just like that and you already forgave him? Where''s the fairness? Where''s the righteousness? What about me then?''


    Because Roman soothed his little sister by giving her money, I decided to do the same.


    I reached for my pocket and pulled out a thousand pesos. However, I realized that my wife was staring at me with her deep crimson eyes. I instinctively pulled a hundred pesos instead.


    "Here''s for my daughter! Merry Christmas sweetheart."


    "Thanks Dajjy! I wuv you!" She giggled and crumpled both cash as if she didn''t know what to do with them.


    "Here''s for you, Roman."


    Of course I didn''t forget my son. I always make sure that both kids received something. They were my treasure and I want to give them everything they want.


    "Thanks, Dad." Roman nodded.


    The two kids were happy. For them, having 100 pesos was already big, as if they could buy whatever they want.


    "Kids, what do you want to buy will your money?" Penelope joined in while Sophia was in her arms.


    "Mommy, I want cake!" Sophia waved her hands excitedly.


    "Hm, me too."


    "Then I''ll talk to brother Simeon later. Maybe we can go to the city again."


    "Yay!"


    The two kids celebrate.


    "Dad, where''s the gifts for my cousins? I talked to them earlier and I said that we have gifts for them."


    "Here."


    For the boys, we bought Yo-yos. As for the girls, we bought fake phones, the ones that sing "I''m a barbie girl~ In the barbie world~".


    "Then, I''ll go meet them."


    "Don''t go somewhere far. If you want to play, be sure to be near the house."


    "Yes, Mom."


    Roman came out of the room with Yo-yos and fake phones. We chuckled seeing his reaction, Roman was still a kid after all.


    "What about you sweetie? Do you want to join them?"


    "Mommy, I''m still too small. I can''t stand for too long, I think I will stay here instead. I have my toys with me anyway." She said very cutely.


    "Aww, my sweet baby. Don''t worry, Mommy will play with you."


    "Yay!"


    The mother and daughter started bonding. While they were playing, I decided to exercise.


    (Current Points: 2)


    I didn''t exercise these last two days so naturally my points didn''t increase. Thankfully, exercising every day didn''t have a penalty. This mission restart every day and I could accomplish it without a problem.


    ''It''s killing two birds with one stone. Exercise gets me healthy while earning points. Perhaps that was the purpose of the [Grind System], to make me a better person.''


    Stay hard! Keep grinding!


    I encouraged myself and started doing push-ups. Now that I was taking things seriously, I want to make sure that my body would be fit. Perhaps it would only take two to three months before I could have abs.


    ''I will burn my belly fat!''


    While doing exercise, I didn''t know that my wife was actually glancing at me every few other seconds.


    I was sweating but I kept pushing myself, I have to finish the 30-minute exercise.


    [Author''s Note: I''m at the funeral right now, I''ll stay here for a week and my update schedule might be inconsistent. Still, I will update everyday.]

 RDD 49

    [Shout out to DaMi M, Vinay K, FlamingSwordGod and Hamza I!]


    Chapter 49


    After half an hour of pushing myself to the limit, I lay on the floor gasping for air. My shoulders and biceps hurt. I wanted to stay like this for a few minutes, my sweat was already forming a puddle underneath me.


    I groaned and stood up after resting.


    "Here''s a towel."


    "Thanks, honey."


    I took the towel she gave me and started to wipe my sweat.


    "It''s already noon, you can use the bathroom to take a bath if you want." She reminded me.


    There were only two bathrooms in this house. Most of the time they were occupied.


    "Do you want to go with me?"


    "Yes, I want to take a bath too."


    "Me too! Mommy, I want you to wash my hair, it is frizzy and I hate it."


    "Yes, baby."


    It seemed that the three of us wanted to take a bath.


    We went downstairs and as expected, there were no people in either bathroom. We decided to use the closest bathroom.


    "Just give me a few minutes, I''ll get the water." I handed the towels to Penelope.


    The water in the basin was not enough. It needs at least two gallons of water to be filled for us to take a bath.


    "Hm, don''t worry, I''ll wash Sophia first," Penelope started to take off Sophia''s clothes.


    I nodded and went out with a two gallon containers in my hand.


    As you might expect, I have to pump water with my hands. It took almost five minutes to fill two gallons. I pumped faster to make sure Sophia and Penelope had water.


    When I returned, Penelope was washing Sophia''s hair.


    "Sophia, stay still. You don''t want the soap to get in your eyes, do you?"


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    "No, Mommy. That would be painful." She obeyed her mother''s command. After all, soap in the eyes is stinging and painful.


    "Here''s the water."


    "Thank you, honey."


    I poured the water into the basin and filled it. Then I began to take off my clothes, except for my shorts.


    Men wash their bodies faster than any woman. We only need to wash our armpits, balls, ass, and face thoroughly. Of course, we can wash them in any order.


    People say that men use only one soap to wash their balls, ass, and face. I don''t know about other people, but that''s how I do it. There was no such thing as face wash. Hell, I don''t even know a single face wash product for men.


    "Honey, can you help Sophia wash up? I''m going to wash my hair."


    "Okay."


    After rinsing my body with water, I kneeled and washed Sophia. The little girl giggled and kicked as water poured on her skin, she really was too mischievous. Now I understand why Penelope has to remind her to sit still.


    Unlike me, Penelope took a long time to wash her hair. By the time she finished washing her hair, Sophia and I had already finished taking a bath.


    "Honey, take Sophia to her room first. We don''t want her to get cold."


    I used a small towel to dry Sophia and then put her clothes on. I put her clothes on carefully, afraid I might hurt her. I know my strength and I know that at Sophia''s age she was still fragile and weak.


    Fortunately, we didn''t have a problem.


    "Then I''ll take Sophia to the room first."


    "Yes."


    I carried Sophia back to our room and played with her to spend some time with her. A few minutes later, Penelope returned with wet hair.


    "How''s Sophia?"


    She asked me and I pointed to Sophia who was holding her ''Pwincess Aria''.


    "Mommy!" She cried happily and ran forward to hug Penelope''s legs.


    "Aww, my sweet baby~ Hm, you smell nice."


    "Hehe."


    Penelope sniffed her, her nose almost touching Sophia''s skin. Sophia giggled because she was ticklish.


    "How about lunch? There are leftovers and we can heat them up."


    Penelope combed her hair.


    "I want fried chicken."


    "We''ll see about that."


    Fried chicken was one of the most eaten dishes last night. I''m not sure if there are any leftovers.


    After fixing our appearance, we went downstairs again, but this time our destination was the kitchen.


    "Oh, looks like you''re playing well with your toys."


    Penelope was surprised to see Roman and his cousins playing yo-yos.


    "Thanks for the presents, Auntie, I like them a lot," Billy said happily.


    "I''m not the one who picked out your toys. You have to thank your uncle for buying them for you."


    "Thanks, Uncle Keith."


    "It''s okay. I''ll buy more toys next year."


    Penelope looked at me.


    If things go well, I have decided to visit Dagupan, Pangasinan every year. I know my wife misses her hometown.


    "Kids, do you want to eat? I''m going to heat up some food. Just tell me what you want to eat."


    "Yes, Auntie! I want goat stew."


    "Pork adobo!"


    They were excited to hear Penelope''s approval. I helped my wife start a fire. Unlike gas stoves, the flame from firewood was difficult to control.


    But because Penelope had experience cooking with firewood. She didn''t have any trouble with the fire.


    A few minutes later, the food was on the table and the children were salivating as they held their plates.


    "Then let''s eat."


    Penelope reheated only a few portions, it seemed there were a lot of leftovers from last night.


    Penelope served them with rice and let the children choose what they wanted to eat.


    Roman ate with his cousins while Penelope fed Sophia and ate at the same time. She really could multitask.

 RDD 50

    Chapter 50


    The place was vividly green, a plain of grass, and the goats ate easily. There were chickens and ducks, squeaking and quacking, walking around with their little ducklings and chicks.


    Corazon and Alberto had 5 hectares and they sold half of it. Their family usually grows corn, so their land was not wet and muddy like rice paddies.


    They told us they wanted to start a chicken and duck farm. Free range too.


    In my opinion, 2.5 acres was more than enough. Hell, they could even buy more goats if they wanted to.


    It was already three days after Christmas and our family was quickly adjusting to life in the village. Because this place was called a "village", there was no entertainment at all.


    Even the TV in the house was a small black and white TV, Sophia and Roman didn''t like black and white TV, so they lost interest in watching it. Instead, the children decided to walk around with Penelope. The village was large and full of greenery.


    As for me... I''m digging holes to build a fence around the farm.


    To keep the chickens and ducks from escaping and to protect them, Alberto bought a metal mesh fence. The fence was only four feet high. They were confident that the chickens and ducks would not escape.


    Standing next to me was the youngest child in the family, Santiago.


    "I think that''s enough, brother-in-law."


    "Then let''s put up the pole."


    "Okay."


    We placed the pole that would be the post to connect the metal net. We filled the hole with earth and made sure it would not fall down.


    I wiped off my sweat. It was good that I kept up with my training mission, otherwise I would never last long. Now I can see that my stamina has improved.


    Then we went to our next destination and I dug a hole again. Just like last time, we put another post in the hole and filled it with dirt.


    Alberto and the others were doing the same work we were. Because their parents announced that they wanted to start raising chickens and ducks, both sons and husbands decided to help. Of course, I was one of the people who volunteered.


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    No one would ask for a salary because we all got a lot of money last time.


    In a way, I''m helping my in-laws because I want to return the favor.


    [Ding! Mission completed]


    What?


    I was confused for a moment. However, I remembered that it was already 30 minutes before I started this job.


    Does this mean that doing a tedious task like digging holes can be recognized as exercise?


    Considering that I completed the task, I guess it is.


    I nodded in satisfaction. I was helping my in-laws out of goodwill, and I got another system point, which is definitely worth it.


    "It''s my turn now, brother-in-law."


    "Then," I handed him the pickaxe and wiped my face.


    They were farmers, so their equipment was mostly related to farming. So we used the pickaxe because they only have one shovel and Alberto was currently using it.


    Well, a pickaxe can do the job too! It can dig into the ground.


    "You said you wanted to go to college. Are you still sure?" I asked Santiago to lighten the mood.


    "About that... I asked my friends and they said that there is no electrical engineering in the city, I have to go to the next province if I want to study electrical engineering."


    "The next province? Penelope said that is quite far away."


    "Indeed, that''s why I''m hesitating." Santiago started digging. Unlike me, who was an amateur, Santiago was much better. He knew the best way to dig.


    "Do you have other plans?"


    I asked casually.


    "Well..." It was clear that he hesitated to speak. He almost lost his balance with the axe.


    "Just say it. You don''t have to be afraid."


    "Brother-in-law... Do you think it''s better to enroll in the capital instead? I heard that the curriculum there is much better than in the provinces."


    "Heh!" I chuckled.


    "Kid, if you want me to be honest, don''t believe what they say. It''s not true at all. In my opinion, teaching in the provinces is much better than in the capital. That universities in the capital are nothing but "money suckers".


    I have seen graduates from many provincial universities. In my opinion, they were more intelligent and healthier. Penelope is the best example.


    She studied in a public high school, yet she was smarter than me, who went to a prestigious school. Of course, hard work was also a factor.


    Maybe it''s the difference in mentality. I didn''t study because I feel like I''m inheriting the family business.


    "Is that so?" Santiago was shocked when he heard what I said.


    Kid, I''m not lying to you. In my opinion, the capital is nothing but a deep shit, especially in the next two decades.


    "If you want to enroll in the capital, you can stay with us. But you have to sleep in the living room." I muttered.


    "That''s..."


    "I know it''s obvious that you want to ask me that. You''re just hesitating. If you want to, you have to convince Penelope, not me."


    "Okay."


    Santiago was going to study in Manila.


    That''s good, then I can hire him to work on my upcoming business.


    That was exactly why I didn''t have a problem with him living with us, because I could have another manpower... I''m not a bad guy, okay?


    I don''t want to stop him from going to college. He can work part time instead, that''s good because his salary would be lower. Again, I''m not a bad guy...

 RDD 51

    [Shout out to Drake and Junior!]


    Chapter 51


    After making the posts for the barrier, Santiago and I returned to where Alberto and the others were.


    This time we''re going to build the chicken and duck houses.


    When Penelope heard that Alberto and Corazon were going to raise chickens and ducks, she said it would be good to sell eggs. After all, eggs are an everyday food. Many families ate eggs every day.


    Eggs were an essential ingredient for baking. Besides, eggs were easy to harvest, the chickens would do their work, and all they had to do was get the eggs.


    So building a henhouse was the right thing to do, this was the place where the hens would lay eggs. It was better than laying eggs in different places.


    The chicken and duck coops were made of wooden material. In fact, there were thousands of bamboo poles in the river, and we were free to take them.


    To help the family, I carried the bamboo wood. Obviously, we have to dig more ground to make a foundation.


    Fortunately, most of the men helped build the huts.  Only a few men didn''t participate, like the Se?orita''s husband. Her husband went to the sea to fish. After all, Dagupan, Pangasinan was near the sea. Most of the people near the sea obviously have a job related to fishing.


    When the afternoon came, we had already finished building the chicken coop. We would build the duck house tomorrow.


    On December 28, I spent most of my days helping my in-laws. No problem, I treated it as a relaxing vacation. It was better than wasting my time in a taxi car all day.


    As a taxi driver, I spent most of my time in the car. It was a tiring and boring job. Of course, I met a lot of interesting people. I even met a couple of criminals who almost killed me. Probably the main reason why I didn''t want to be a taxi driver again.


    I came back to the room and found my kids eating two slices of cake...


    "Where did the cake come from?"


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    "My sister went to town. I asked her if she could buy a cake for us. Here''s your share."


    "Thank you, honey."


    Except for Se?orita, who has a loose screw in her head, Penelope had a good relationship with her siblings.


    "What about you, honey? Let''s eat the cake together."


    "No, I already ate mine." She smiled and set the plate down on the table.


    "Are you sure you don''t want to eat with me?"


    "... One, no, two bites. I only want two bites."


    I chuckled and left her alone. Women like sweets.


    We have been together for almost six years and I know my wife very well. She likes to eat delicious, sweet, fluffy cakes and things like that. But she always puts our children first.


    As long as our kids are eating, we''re fine.


    There was a point where we didn''t eat just to make sure the kids had a full stomach.


    My wife and I started to eat the cake. I realized that my wife ate most of it, but who cares? She could eat more.


    "I-I''m sorry, I didn''t realize that..."


    "It''s okay. We still have fresh celery, I''ll eat that instead."


    "Y- Yes. I''ll make you some fried eggs later."


    Perhaps guilty of her crime, Penelope felt bad and promised me fried eggs.


    .........


    ......


    ...


    "Hehe! Mommy, look! I can swim now!" Sophia kicked the water. And no, she was not swimming. She was just paddling.


    "Sophia, don''t go into the deep water. Just stay close to us, do you understand?"


    "Yes, Mommy!"


    Sophia and Penelope swam in the river. We promise to take the children to the river. This might be Sophia''s first time swimming in the river.


    The rivers in Manila are really bad. I saw some kids swimming in the river and I don''t know how they can bear to swim in that polluted river.


    Unhealthy industrialization was killing the city. With no respect for the environment, factories threw their waste into the river. Even ordinary citizens treat the river like a dumpster.


    Maybe the government was part of the reason. No one enforced a "real" law that it was illegal to throw waste into the river. Even if there was a law, no one took it seriously.


    Why not? Because no one was sent to jail for throwing garbage into the river. In a way, the government was too lenient with its citizens.


    Fortunately, the river near the village was clean. It was beautiful blue, almost like the ocean.


    Roman was playing with his cousins, having a competition to see who could swim the fastest. Of course, Roman lost because he was not a good swimmer.


    As for me, I''m a good swimmer. We had a swimming pool at my parents'' house. I could swim whenever I wanted until I got tired of swimming.


    As for Penelope, she was swimming near the land, watching Sophia. Thr Mother and daughter were having a good time.


    Hm? A carp?


    When I saw the fish swimming next to me, my hunter instinct manifested and I grabbed it with my hands.


    "Yosh!"


    The fish splashed and tried to escape my grasp. I quickly threw it to the land to make sure it would not get away.


    The carp was big, almost as big as my arm. It jumped and fought for its life.


    "Looks like we will be eating a carp tonight."


    I grinned. Eating the food you hunted was the best.


    "Wow! Dajjy, you''re amazing! I wuv you!"


    Sophia was shocked to see my performance.


    "That''s right, sweetie, praise me more! Muwahaha!"

 RDD 52

    [Shout out to Anakin, Lloyd m, Marcelo M, Yisus88, Dwhateverprof, Andrew S, Aidan d!]


    RDD 52


    Life in the province was simple and fulfilling, though there was little to do.


    Most of the time Penelope and I helped my in-laws with their new business venture.


    The chicken and duck coops were completed in 5 days. There were also barriers so it was hard for them to escape. The family also had three dogs to guard the place.


    11:30 in the morning. We heard some trumpets here and there. Sometimes there were people shooting firecrackers. They were making noise for the new year.


    "Roman, you''re getting tan."


    "Hm."


    Penelope sighed as she looked at her son. Roman''s milky white skin was getting darker. Of course her heart ached, she wanted her son to be as handsome as ever.


    "Mom, I want to go swimming in the river again." Roman might be quiet most of the time, but he was vocal when he needed something.


    "No can do. You already swam yesterday. If you want to swim again, you have to meet my chancla. Do you want the imprints of my flip-flops on your butt?"


    "..."


    Finally, Roman sighed and approached me in defeat.


    Son, if you ask for help, you know I can''t help you. I''m also afraid of your mother. Even if I''m right, your mother is always right. Even if I''m wrong, your mother is always right.


    "Daddy, can I play with your phone?"


    "..."


    It was a relief to know that my son would never drag me into the swamp.


    Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    "Here." I handed him my phone and let him play.


    "Roman, stop holding your father''s phone and go to sleep. It''s New Year''s Eve later and you''ll fall asleep if you don''t rest now!"


    With a deep and angry voice, Penelope glared at Roman. She was fanning Sophia who was sleeping.


    Since it was the last day of the year, Penelope wanted the children to be asleep so they could welcome the New Year with vigor.


    There was a tradition in the Philippines that if you jump on New Year''s Eve, you will have a healthy year and grow taller.


    But of course, if the children were too sleepy, Penelope would never force them to stay up all night.


    "..."


    In defeat, Roman handed the phone back to me and collapsed on the wooden bed. There was no mattress for us, only little Sophia had the privilege of a soft bed.


    I looked at my wife who was fanning Sophia.


    "What are you looking at? Go to sleep too."


    "Yes."


    She seemed a little irritated. It wasn''t her time of the month, so it was kind of weird.


    Anyway, since I didn''t have anything to do, I decided to sleep.


    Later, we still have a bunch of chicken to fry.


    "Dajjy! Dajjy! Wake up!"


    I weakly opened my eyes when I heard my daughter''s soft voice.


    "Hm? What''s wrong, sweetheart?"


    I rubbed my eyes and looked at Sophia who was almost on top of my chest.


    "Dajjy! Look! I have a cowowing book!"


    "Huh?"


    What does that mean? My eyes gradually focused on the thing Sophia was holding.


    "Ah, you have a coloring book, sweetie?"


    "Yesh!"


    I rubbed her head and she giggled as she flipped through the pages. The coloring book was of Disney princesses like Cinderella and Snow White.


    "Wow! So bweautiful!"


    Sophia happily looked at each picture.


    "Sweetheart, these are just pictures. They are not real. I think your mother is much more beautiful than these fakes."


    "What did you say?" I suddenly heard my wife''s voice and I froze.


    "Nothing much, honey. I just said that you are much more beautiful than those unrealistic Disney princesses."


    "Here."


    I sighed when she didn''t say anything bad back. In fact, she blushed slightly.


    "What''s this?"


    "Just open it."


    I was confused when she handed me a box. Then I realized that my wife had bought me a Nike: Air Force One.


    "Honey?" I was stunned.


    "I saw you looking at these shoes the last time we were in town. So I decided to get them for you."


    "..."


    Nike: Air Force One was a nice pair of shoes. I remembered that I had three pairs of Nike: Air Force One in different colors in my past life.


    To be honest, when we went to the city, I thought about buying the shoes. But I decided not to buy them. I think I should earn my own money before I buy things for myself.


    "Thanks, honey."


    "Eh?"


    I unconsciously hugged her tightly and kissed her forehead. She was stunned for a second before she pushed me away.


    "Keith Castillo! Don''t ever do that again!" She gasped and blushed.


    "Hehe, sorry~"


    I rubbed my head.


    Looking to the other side of the room, I noticed that Roman was holding a Rubik''s Cube.


    I looked at my wife.


    "I bought him a toy that can increase his intelligence." She nodded.


    Now I realized why Sophia had a coloring book while Roman had a Rubik''s Cube. As expected from my wife, she had already planned the best for the children.


    "Are you sure he likes it?"


    If you ask me, I''d rather play with Gundam than solve a Rubik''s cube.


    "Can''t you see? He''s having fun."


    I looked at Roman seriously and realized that he was solving the Rubik''s Cube with utmost concentration. It was as if the cube absorbed his mind and he had to solve it before he could escape.


    He probably inherited this mentality from Penelope and my grandfather. Once something caught his interest, he would focus all his mind on it until he solved it completely.


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 RDD 53

    Chapter 53


    Wait a minute...


    "Honey, could it be that you forced us to sleep because you want to surprise us with these gifts?"


    "O- Of course not. I just want you to sleep so that you will not be tired later."


    She denied the accusation, but it was clear from her blushing cheeks that I was right. She was definitely forcing us to sleep in order to surprise us with this.


    "Thanks, honey. I like them."


    "Wear them first. I can return it if it doesn''t suit you." She tried to hide her smile.


    I hesitated because my feet were full of dust. I had helped cut some wood earlier. I didn''t have time to wash my feet.


    Anyway, when I saw that Penelope was waiting for me to put them on, I decided to let go of my hesitation.


    "They fit perfectly," I said after putting them on.


    Nike: Air Force One had a nice aesthetic. The ones I wore were classic all white. That was one of the reasons I hesitated to wear them.


    There are many shoes that I have dreamed of buying. Maybe in this lifetime I will have the chance to buy some of them.


    Air Jordan 1, Nike Hyperdunk Kobe, Lebron 8... Hey, most of them are named after basketball players! Wow! What an amazing discovery~


    "It''s nice to see the shoes fit you." She nodded in satisfaction.


    "By the way, I got you something too."


    "Huh?" She was surprised when she realized that I had a present for her as well.


    Hehe, she thought I forgot her, what a dum dum. She bought gifts for us, but she didn''t have any for herself. Of course, it was my duty to surprise her with a gift.


    "For me?"


    "Hm, that''s right."


    I opened the closet and took out a box for her.


    Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on.


    "You can open it if you like."


    "Okay." She was excited to know she had her own present.


    When she opened the box, her excited face turned red with embarrassment.


    She looked at me with a blushing face.


    "Keith Castillo!"


    She gritted her teeth and I chuckled. I bet she wanted to say something. Unfortunately, the two kids were with us and she couldn''t say anything bad.


    "Did you like them?" I teased her.


    "You!"


    She had no choice but to close the box.


    "Mommy? What''s your present, can I see it?"


    "N- No, sweetheart." Penelope immediately put the box back in the closet. She glared at me and asked for my help in getting Sophia''s attention.


    "But why?"


    "Well, you see Sophia," I approached Sophia and carried her.


    "Do you want to go outside? Your grandparents are cooking delicious roasted chicken!" I immediately redirect her attention to other things.


    "Really? Then let''s go! Dajjy, I want to see the cooking!" She gets excited.


    "Okay. Roman, let''s go outside. Let''s go play with your cousins."


    "Okay, Dad."


    Roman had already finished solving the Rubik''s Cube. When he heard he could play with his cousins, Roman tool out his yo-yo and Beyblade.


    As I walked away, I could feel my wife glaring at me with resentment.


    The contents of the box were actually quite simple. It was lingerie, sexy lingerie. Inappropriate for the children to see.


    When Simeon decided to buy equipment for the chicken coop, he let me follow him into the town. With the opportunity in my hands, I went to a lingerie store and bought two sets for my wife.


    Since I usually see my wife without clothes, I knew she didn''t have any nice underwear these years. Instead of buying things for herself, she decided to buy things for our children. Not that I blame her, I didn''t have a good pair of boxers either...


    So I decided to give her underwear this time. I think it''s worth it... I''m excited to see my wife wearing them. Sheesh, my blood is boiling.


    When we came out of the house, we saw my in-laws roasting chickens.


    The children watched them cooking, salivating at the smell of roasted chickens. Unfortunately, Alberto and Corazon know that once they give the children a piece of chicken, they will ask for more. They might as well wait until New Year''s Eve.


    "Grandma!"


    "Aww, how''s my sweet granddaughter?"


    "Hehe."


    Living in the province for a week, I could see that my in-laws loved Sophia very much. My daughter is articulate for her age. She knew how to praise people.


    "Grandma, is it just me, or are you getting bweautiful?"


    "Fufu, this child."


    You see? What did I tell you? My daughter knows how to flatter people.


    As I was helping my in-laws roast chickens, we heard the sound of firecrackers from our neighbor.


    The kids were curious about the firecrackers and went over.


    Roman and Sophia wanted to see them too.


    "Roman, make sure you keep Sophia away from the firecrackers. Do you understand?"


    "Yes, Dad."


    The brother and sister joined in the fun and watched the firecrackers explode.


    Then my wife came out of the house and approached us. It appeared that she had hidden the box in a safe place, somewhere the children would never find. She was still staring at me, but oh well, it was worth it to see her blush.


    Penelope''s sisters and brothers began to arrive one by one to help prepare the food.


    Simeon had bought firecrackers as well and he would light them at midnight, right on New Year.

 RDD 54

    [Shout out to Ryan B, Marga T, Cesar M, Bikash G, Andiyah B, and Jonathan D!]


    Chapter 54


    On the other side of the country, a red Ferrari pulled up to the entrance of a mansion.


    A man in his early 30''s got out of the Ferrari after parking his car.


    "Sir Sean, you have returned." The head maid appeared and greeted him.


    "Yes, how are Dad and Mom?"


    "The same as always."


    Sean shrugged when he heard what she said. ''Nothing new, huh?''


    Sean Castillo. He was the second son of Ernesto Castillo, owner of Castillo Construction and Tortillano Chips.


    The wealth of the Castillo family had started with Sean''s grandfather. His grandfather left the province of Davao to start a new life in Manila. He and his wife paved the way to start a business.


    Sean''s grandfather was a contractor and he had a contract with a subdivision and factories. With these projects, Sean''s grandfather started his business and it prospered. They decided to locate their business in Cavite, a province near Manila.


    From Construction Company, to Car Wash/Repair Shops, to Tire Factory, to Corn Chips. Sean''s grandfather started most of them.


    Of course, the tire factory and the corn chips factory were run by his two sons. In a way, the development of those companies was because of his two sons.


    Now that his grandfather retired, he gave his four companies to his two sons. He didn''t bother to set up a trust fund or leave any shares.


    He felt that since he had started his life from scratch, his descendants should also start from scratch. If his two sons did not keep the companies, so be it. He was old anyway.


    Sean''s father, Ernesto Castillo, inherited the construction and chip factory. While the other son inherited the car wash/repair shops and the tire factory.


    They were clearly rich. Rich enough that Sean could easily have a Ferrari.


    Sean walked into the mansion and found his mother grumbling as she tended the flowers in the vase.


    "Mom, I''m home."


    "Huh! Why are you so late? Don''t tell me you''re spending time with that actress again. Sean, I''m telling you, if you like her, marry her. Don''t toy with this woman''s feelings. It''s obvious she has feelings for you, and she''s a nice girl."


    The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    "Mom, I just got here. Why are you nagging me already?" He smiled bitterly.


    "What do you want me to do? Your father is grumbling because his investments in the Internet industry aren''t going well."


    "Hayst, that''s why I told him not to play with those investments. The Internet is still new and there''s no real profit business."


    The dot-com bubble was slowly going to burst. As soon as something bad happened, the bubble would burst and there would be another round of suicides on Wall Street.


    Fortunately, Ernesto didn''t take the investment seriously. He didn''t invest that much, it was more like a game.


    "I advise him to invest in real estate instead."


    "You understand that your father has dozens of properties in his hands, right?"


    "Yes, Mom."


    Sean''s mother is named Leah Castillo. She was a nurse when she met her husband. Since then, her husband pursued her until they married and had three children, three sons to be exact.


    Ernesto was a good father, but he took his job too seriously and he had a strong sense of becoming a part of the the so-called nobility. He wanted all of his sons to succeed. Especially for his youngest son, he wanted Keith to marry a politician''s daughter and go into politics.


    Rich people had endless ambitions, and Ernesto was one of them. Ernesto knew that Keith didn''t have much ambition, so he wanted to give him a boost. A person without ambition would achieve nothing in life.


    In the end, Ernesto realized that Keith had gotten a poor woman pregnant, which led to the current situation.


    For six years, Keith never showed his face, and the atmosphere in the family has been gloomy ever since. Ernesto Castillo became grumpy all the time.


    "Where''s brother?" Sean tried to find his older brother.


    "Jeremy is still at the company. Your brother is always serious about his life. When will he start to relax? Sometimes I want him to be like you, happily spending his life... Of course, I don''t want him to be exactly like you." She glared at Sean.


    If Jeremy was a workaholic, Sean was the playboy. Sean had never been in a serious relationship with a woman. In fact, he was used to two-timing and three-timing. He had the rizz in his veins!


    "Ouch, Mom." Sean pretended to be hurt by his mother''s words.


    "Huh, don''t give me that crap... So where did you go this time? I heard you went to Quezon, did you talk to Keith?"


    This time Leah was worried. She had not seen her son for six years. She missed him. Unfortunately, the family knew how stubborn Keith was.


    If Ernesto was the most stubborn person in the family, Keith was second. This father and son would never reconcile, it was basically impossible. Unless one of them let go of their pride.


    But it had been six years and the two men were still fighting a silent battle.


    "No, Mom. I didn''t even know his exact address. If I bothered his family, he would probably find another place to stay. You know what happened the last time we saw him..." Sean shook his head.


    Maybe Keith and Penelope thought they would be separated by the Castillo family.


    "Then what did you do to Quezon? You heartless child! I can''t believe I have a son like you!" Leah was on the verge of crying. Her family was disintegrating.


    Her three sons had different attitudes and it was impossible to see them together.


    "Wuuu wuuu wuuu wuuu!" She covered her face and began to cry.


    Sean sighed.


    "Mom, you didn''t let me finish my story."


    "Then tell me!"


    "You know my friend has a taxi company and I talked to him about taking care of Keith. Well, I just found out that Keith quit last week. It was already late when he told me. If he knew, he would at least give him over 50 thousand as a separation fee."


    "What happened to your brother?" Leah looked at him.


    "... Mom, you''re not even crying. There are no tears at all."


    "Don''t change the subject!"


    "Okay, fine."

 RDD 55

    [Shout out to Ricky F and NLArcher!]


    RDD 55


    Midnight came and it was different than usual.


    The dark night was filled with the lights of fireworks. The sounds of the firecrackers rang in my ears.


    This night was alive as hell! So much so that my adrenaline was pumping.


    I looked around and saw my two kids jumping. Just like I said last time, if you jump in the New Year, you will grow taller.


    I don''t know where this superstition came from, but people try it. Now that I think about it... Why don''t I jump too?


    I think I''m already tall, 5''11". But another inch would not be bad.


    So in the end I decided to jump as well.


    My wife saw me jump and giggled. She watched us jump like crazy as the fireworks went off.


    Now you''re probably wondering why the village can light fireworks. The answer is no, the village didn''t have enough money to buy fireworks...


    But the city next to us can. The fireworks we just saw were from that city... So yes, we''re going to join their fun.


    Because the kids had slept well earlier, they were still lively and awake.


    Minutes passed and the sounds gradually faded. Even our house became much quieter. Of course, before we take a rest, Alberto and Corazon invited us to dinner.


    The food was delicious as usual. Life in the province was simple and full.


    I remember what my friends told me--it is impossible to be hungry in the province, unless you''re a picky eater.


    I tell you, we have an endless supply of green vegetables! Hell, you can even find malunggay leaves on the side of the road! Enough to make soup.


    However, the food in the province is not usually delicious. They eat mostly vegetables.


    Even a can of sardines was a delicacy in the early 60s. Nobody had it better. I even heard a rumor that people would kill for a can of sardines. Thank God I wasn''t reborn in that era. I''m fine with 1999.


    Stolen novel; please report.


    "Honey."


    I turned to my wife who was calling me. She smiled and gave me a peck on the cheek.


    "Happy New Year."


    "Happy New Year to you too! I love you."


    "I love you too."


    It was a good thing the dining room was lively and everyone was busy with their lives, otherwise our quick flirting would have been awkward.


    "Dajjy, I want cwake!"


    "Honey, eat what''s in your mouth first."


    "Yesh!"


    Sophia was sure to enjoy the cake this time. Unlike last time, when the cake easily disappeared, this time Corazon had specifically ordered two large cakes.


    The children were like piranhas, slowly devouring the cakes.


    After a sumptuous meal, we returned to our room and fell asleep. The first hour of New Year''s was hype, but then the next hours would be boring and tiring. So, of course, sleep was the best answer.


    Even though we slept after the New Year''s celebration, we were still tired when we woke up.


    Sophia was sleepy and did not wake up until after noon.


    "Mommy, I want milk... Haaam..." She yawned and wiped her face adorably.


    "Aww, how''s my sweet little princess?"


    "Mommy, I don''t want to stay up all night again."


    "Fufu," Penelope giggled when she heard her answer and kissed her forehead.


    "I''ll give you one."


    While Penelope went downstairs, I was left with my two children.


    "How''s the new year? It''s great, right?" I asked them to lighten the mood.


    "Dad, we look like a chimpanzees jumping for food."


    Roman shook his head and frowned. There were distinct dark circles around his eyes.


    "Roman, I advise you to go back to sleep. You really do look like a monkey right now."


    "..."


    He didn''t bother to talk to me again and solved his Rubik''s cube instead. Maybe my son saw me as a nuisance.


    Of all of us, I was the only one who was better off. Because of the energy pill I took yesterday, I was not affected by the lack of sleep.


    We will leave the province on January 3rd. Roman has to return to school on Monday, so we won''t be able to stay in the province much longer. Fortunately, the children had enough days to spend with their relatives.


    When Penelope returned, I noticed that she looked discouraged.


    "What''s wrong, honey?"


    I frowned and asked her. Penelope shook her head and didn''t know what to say.


    "It''s nothing... I just saw Billy outside crying about something. I tried to approach him, but Se?orita was next to him."


    "Waaahhh--! Waaahhh--! Mama! I don''t want it! Don''t hit me! I promise I''ll be a good boy-! Waaahhh--!"


    Speak of the devil.


    The voice was Billy''s, screaming hysterically as if he was being beaten.


    My wife and I looked at each other. Should we stop what Se?orita was doing?


    "You bastard! Who told you to touch those things? They are dirty! They came from that prodigal aunt of yours! The one who spread her legs just to get a rich man! Hah! Look what happened then!"


    Se?orita snorted and kicked her child.


    "The rich man was disowned by his family and became poor! I tell you! Don''t ever go near them again! They are bad luck! Don''t ever accept their gifts! They are bad luck! Look what happened to me because your aunt did not graduate from college? Hah!"


    "Waaahhh--!"


    That bitch! I can''t believe she would say such a horrible thing.


    Suddenly I looked at my wife and she was angry. Her red eyes glowed deeper and more dangerous.


    I unconsciously swallowed.


    Penelope gave Sophia the milk and went downstairs. Her footsteps were slow but heavy.


    "Oh God, I have to go after her! Roman, take care of Sophia while I''m gone!"

 RDD 56

    [Shout out to David K and Elle!]


    RDD 56


    My feet were moving so fast, following my wife. I knew that face very well, Penelope is angry!


    As the person who always faced the pink haired woman''s anger, I knew how dangerous Penelope was when she was angry.


    Unfortunately, even though I was running fast, I was unable to catch my wife.


    "Waaahhh--! Mother, please! It hurts! I promise I will never go near her again!"


    Billy screamed in pain as his mother continued to kick him. His body had received dozens of blows from his mother. Even his face was swollen and bleeding.


    I became furious when I saw how horribly she was treating her son.


    Penelope walked up to the mother and son.


    "Bitch? What are you doing here? Huh? Did you come to tell me something? Go ahead, I''m listening!"


    Se?orita glared at Penelope with daggers. She grinned as if she had already won the battle.


    Penelope stared at her with no change in her eyes.


    "I''m not even lying! You''re a whore who tried to hook up with a rich guy!"


    -- Pah!


    A crisp sound of a slap!


    Penelope slapped Se?orita.


    "Y- You!" She was stunned and touched her cheek.


    But Penelope raised her hand again and slapped her on the other cheek!


    -- Pah!


    Se?orita almost turned around from the force of the blow. Her mouth was open and bleeding.


    "You bitch!"


    "Puta," Penelope muttered coldly. She said something unbelievable. As much as she could, she didn''t want to use derogatory terms.


    "W-what did you say?"


    Se?orita was as stunned as I was.


    "Puta, that''s what you mean, right? I''m sorry, but you are the puta here. Everyone in our family knows what you did when you went to our uncle''s house--"


    This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    "Shut up!"


    Se?orita''s expression turned pale. She looked at Penelope as if she were looking at a stranger.


    By the way, puta in Spanish means...


    Damn it! I didn''t know that Penelope could silence Se?orita with just a few words.


    "Oh, I heard you made a lot of money. Then why don''t you keep on doing it?"


    "Y-You! You! You are crazy!"


    "That''s right. I''m crazy. You know what? I''m actually a gold digger."


    Huh? I was shocked when Penelope began to speak.


    "I wanted to marry Keith because his family is rich. So what? I''m thinking about the future. Of course I will choose someone who can give me a better future."


    "Penelope!"


    "Shut up before I say another sentence. You don''t want your husband to leave you, do you?"


    She smiled, but her smile was frightening. Even her eyes were as red as blood.


    "..."


    Se?orita looked at her with teary eyes and clenched her teeth. Both of her cheeks burned with pain.


    In the end, she walked away, she walked away quite quickly. She didn''t bother to look at her child, not at all.


    "..."


    Penelope looked at me. Then she started walking towards the farm.


    "What''s happening here?"


    I turned to see Alberto and Corazon. They were shocked to see Billy crying and bleeding.


    "Who did this?"


    Corazon asked Billy with concern.


    As for me, I just looked at my wife who was slowly walking away.


    "Mother... Wuuuuu wuuu Mother hit me! Wuuuuu wuuuu! Grandma, I don''t want to live with my mother! I don''t want to!"


    "What? Your mother hit you again?"


    Alberto and Corazon had ugly faces when they heard Billy''s statement.


    Again... It seemed that this was not the first time Billy had been beaten by his mother.


    Unlike other countries that have strong protections for children, the Philippines was quite lenient on child abuse crimes. After all, the parents were only "disciplining" the child.


    But how far was far? How do you distinguish between discipline and real child abuse?


    In my opinion, it was quite simple. It hurts me to see my children cry, so when I try to discipline them, I feel like I''m hurting myself as well. I don''t see that with Se?orita.


    But most Filipinos were compassionate, only a few people could be like Se?orita.


    It was obvious that she didn''t have any feelings for Billy.


    I didn''t know the reason. My thoughts were with my wife.


    Suddenly someone tapped me on the shoulder.


    I looked at Alberto.


    "Talk to Penelope... I don''t know what happened, but when I saw her walking away, I''m worried."


    "Yes... Thank you, father-in-law."


    "Hm, what happened last time was my fault. Now I know that you are not a bad person. At least I can see that Penelope is happy with you. Your family is wonderful, please don''t ruin it."


    I clenched my fists and nodded.


    I rushed forward to reach my wife.


    Fortunately, since I''d been working out these days, I had no problem running a few miles.


    I began to catch up to Penelope.


    "Penelope!"


    I saw Penelope stop, but then she ran away.


    The chickens were disturbed when she started running faster.


    Unfortunately for Penelope, I''m faster and have great stamina. I ran faster and reached her a few seconds later.


    The chickens began to squawk as we ran past them.


    "Honey!"


    When I reached my wife, I grabbed her shoulder and hugged her.


    "Let go of me!"


    Penelope pushed me away and tried to run. But I''m much stronger than her. I held her tight.


    I knew in my heart that I would regret this moment if I didn''t hold her.


    She was crying, snot on her face. She looked terrible, as if she had lost something important in her heart. She trembled in my embrace.


    "I love you."


    "Didn''t you hear what I said? I''m a gold digger!"


    "I know, and I love you. No matter what kind of person you are, I will always love you."


    "Let me go!"


    She cried. I can see in her eyes that she was broken. I want to see her smile, not like this where her eyes are filled with tears. My heart was crushed to see her in despair as tears rolled down her cheeks.


    "Please... Keith, let me go."


    "I won''t. I never will. I''m a selfish person."

 RDD 57

    RDD 57


    "Penelope, listen to me. I will love you no matter what happens. Remember what I said when you were pregnant, I said that my love for you will never change."


    I hugged my wife tightly. I''m afraid this situation will never be resolved if I don''t do something.


    "Stop it. You don''t have to talk anymore!"


    But Penelope continued to struggle, trying to escape my embrace. She started pushing, punching my chest.


    I kept my arms around her.


    "Why? Why are you doing this? I already told the truth! There''s no reason to keep this farce going."


    "But I want to keep this farce going."


    I tried to kiss her, but she cried and avoided me. Her face was a mess.


    After a few minutes of pushing, she started to get tired and slowly lost her strength. In the end, she just sobbed into my chest.


    "I was a fool. When I first met you, I didn''t like you at all. You''re arrogant and reckless."


    I remembered those moments... I was really an asshole then.


    "I tried to study and avoid you, but you always made me suffer."


    "..."


    Indeed, I''m a loser. Just to get my wife, I did everything to get her attention.


    "At first I didn''t like you. But every day you gave me roses and tried your best. You won. I started talking to you, I started saying yes to your progress.


    "..."


    "You asked me if you''re the reason why my situation became like this. You''re right, it''s all your fault. If it were not for you, I might already be a graduate and have a successful career."


    She sobbed. Her voice was hoarse and even her speech was incomprehensible. But I could feel her emotions.


    A thud. She hit my chest with her fist and cried out.


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    "But why!? I should be angry with you! I should be angry at you for destroying my life! My family was disappointed in me! I broke my promise! I destroyed their expectations! I should be angry right now!"


    She screamed, clutching my T-shirt. Her tears and snot landed on the clothes. It was strange that I never found her disgusting. Instead, I pulled my wife closer to me.


    "When I found out that you were really rich, I was happy. I thought that if I married you, my hardship would be over. No more sleepless nights over completing my assignments. No more stress from endless expectations from my family."


    I swallowed. My heart felt heavy. I was not angry at my wife.


    I was angry at myself. For being a disgrace. A man who didn''t have a strong motivation to live, a man who killed himself after realizing that nothing mattered.


    I was wrong about everything. The woman in my arms means everything to me. I could not believe that I had almost left her.


    "I understand. I will accept everything."


    I muttered.


    "When you chose me instead of your family, I was happy. Even though we are poor, you never abandoned us. Thank you for that, Keith. Thank you so much." She cried and broke my heart even more.


    I didn''t know what was going through her mind, but her grip on my t-shirt was strong.


    She sighed and another tear broke out.


    "I never regret... I don''t regret choosing you, I''m not afraid of being called a gold-digger. But I''m afraid you''ll hate me." She cried, almost tearing my clothes.


    I see. So we both feel the same way.


    I laughed as tears streamed down my face. In fact, my face was a mess as well.


    "I''m afraid you don''t love me anymore." I said and sniffed. Gosh, my snots are falling too.


    "Honey, no matter what happens, my answer will always be the same. I love you. There''s no reason, I just love you."


    I assured her.


    She looked at me. Her eyes were bloodshot after she cried. Then she started to cry again.


    "Waahh--!"


    This time she cried like a child. Almost like a baby needing attention. I kept reassuring her, patting her back.


    "I-I''m a gold digger." She said.


    "Then I''m a deadbeat." I replied.


    In my opinion, Penelope is not a gold digger. A golddigger will never come into my poor life. A golddigger will leave as soon as I don''t have any money. Penelope was just the opposite.


    Maybe she didn''t know the true definition of a golddigger.


    I laughed.


    "Why are you laughing?" She asked, crying.


    "Nothing, I just realized that you are still beautiful when you cry."


    "Keith..."


    "Penelope, I''m just a poor man. All I can promise you is to make you happy. I will never have a mansion or a sports car, but I will cherish you and our children. I will be there until the end of my days."


    "Hm, I want to spend my life with you." She nodded and wiped away her tears like a baby.


    This time I leaned closer and kissed her. Penelope was scared, but she didn''t pull away. We shared a kiss.


    Then came the second kiss, then the third, until we were out of breath. Unlike usual, Penelope was kissing me aggressively. She pulled my hair and licked my tongue without restraint.


    Of course, I responded with fierce kisses of my own.


    Our location was quite uncomfortable as the chickens and ducks were quacking around us.


    But we didn''t care. For now, we just want to kiss and be close to each other.


    We both realized that we were both afraid of separation. We wanted to be together forever.


    We were like teenagers again, we didn''t care about our surroundings. Our fingers intertwined, never letting go.


    When our kisses ended, we both realized that our snots and tears were on our faces... We were stupid, something I will cherish forever.

 RDD 58

    [Shout out to Eduardo T, Hamza I, Zavien K, Ahmad A, Robert M, Gintoki Sakata, Cosmicuni, Mark S!]


    RDD 58


    After the kisses, Penelope and I were both exhausted. The cuddling had left us breathless. We were breathing hard, but we were so happy. Penelope leaned on my lap and smiled at me. I smiled back at her, kissed her cheek and held her hands.


    "We''ll be together forever. I promise," I said.


    "I love you so much, Penelope. I can''t imagine spending a day without you."


    Kind of cringe, right? How can a man say that without frowning? Then fuck off!


    I''m telling you, a man who is in love will not hesitate to say those cringe-worthy sentences. This is based on real experience.


    At that moment, I knew I had found the woman I wanted to spend the rest of my life with. And no matter what happened, I would never give her up.


    We continued to smile at each other and I could feel Penelope''s heartbeat in my arms. I was so happy to have her in my life, and I knew that she loved me just as much.


    I felt an intense sense of connection with Penelope, as if our souls were intertwined. I felt a deep sense of peace and harmony, and I knew that despite our differences, we would always be there for each other.


    I was so grateful to have found her and to have the chance to love her. As we sat together in that moment, I felt happier than I had ever felt in my life.


    We looked at the landscape... just to see the chickens and ducks moving around. A unique landscape in my opinion.


    My wife snuggled closer to me as we sat and enjoyed the view.


    "Hm, let''s go back to the house. The kids are waiting for us."


    I could see that Penelope was worried about the children.


    "Okay." I nodded and helped her to her feet.


    We walked side by side, holding hands. To be honest, my palm was actually sweating...


    As we got closer, we found Sophia and Roman waiting for us. I was not sure how long we had been gone, but judging by the children''s worried expressions, it had been a long time.


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    Sophia was sobbing in her brother''s arms and calling for her mother.


    "Mommy! Mommy! Waaaaa!!"


    I wanted to laugh because that was the exact expression Penelope had earlier. She was crying like a baby, kicking her feet and punching the air.


    Seeing Sophia crying, Penelope burst into another sob and ran to her.


    "Baby~ Mommy''s here."


    She said, but her voice was hoarse.


    When Sophia heard her voice, she stopped crying and looked at her mother. Then she cried as well.


    "Mommy! What happened to you? You look so ugly! Waaahhh--!"


    I almost burst out laughing as Sophia spoke. It was ironic that I had cried earlier, but now I was laughing.


    "Baby, Mommy''s just sad." She wiped her face and hugged Sophia, kissing her cheeks to soothe the crying baby.


    "Mommy waaahhh--! Your eyes! They are swollen. Wuuu wuuuu!"


    Indeed, Penelope''s eyes were swollen right now. In fact, her face was swollen as well.


    "Mommy, ugly wwuuuuwuuuu!"


    Mother and daughter cried pitifully. As for me, I just wiped my face.


    Roman approached me with his usual face. Of all of us, he was the only one who wasn''t crying.


    "Ah, Roman, your eyes are a little red."


    "Dad, I have red pupils. Of course my eyes are red."


    "No, that''s not what I mean."


    I was wrong. It seemed that even our oldest child was on the verge of breaking down.


    I tapped him on the shoulder and said, "Son, don''t make your mother cry. Do you understand?"


    "Dad, your hand is sweaty. Besides, you''re the only one who always makes Mom cry."


    "..."


    I didn''t know how to answer. Being an asshole, I had hurt Penelope so many times. That''s why I''m thankful that she didn''t leave me.


    "That is true. Son, don''t be like me."


    I nodded and agreed with what he said.


    "I don''t want to be like you, ever."


    ... This boy.


    Anyway, it was not the time to teach Roman a lesson.


    I looked at the mother and daughter. They had already stopped crying. They were just hugging each other, causing more tears to fall to the ground.


    As for Alberto and Corazon, they just looked away. They didn''t bother to interrupt the family time.


    "Sniff, sniff, do you want something to eat? I can cook whatever you want."


    "Mommy, I miss your chicken adobo." Sophia was the first to answer, and we let the little girl decide the dish.


    "Chicken adobo then."


    Penelope smiled. To be honest, I couldn''t see her eyes because they were swollen. But that didn''t change the fact that my wife is beautiful.


    Penelope and the children went into the kitchen to prepare the meal. Meanwhile, I approached my in-laws.


    "How is Penelope?"


    Corazon asked worriedly.


    "She''s fine. She wants to cook for the children."


    "You want a chicken, right? Come on, I''ll help you choose one."


    Maybe that was the advantage of having a chicken farm, they could eat chicken and eggs just like that.


    Alberto picked out a fat hen and helped me draw the blood and pull the feathers. Roman watched beside us.


    Then I chopped the chicken and gave it to Penelope to cook.


    Since we woke up late, it was already 4 p.m. when the chicken adobo was ready.


    We ate it together with my in-laws. Corazon brought the leftovers last night and we ate them. Our food was delicious, very delicious.


    Knowing that my wife loves me, I feel that every dish tastes good. Hell, I will eat dirt if she serves it to me.

 RDD 59

    RDD 59


    Our lunch/dinner was hearty and everyone had a full stomach. Penelope''s siblings started waking up and greeted us. Some of them asked what happened earlier, but Penelope just smiled with her swollen face.


    When we returned to our room, Sophia kept hugging her mother. She wouldn''t let go, like a koala stuck in a tree.


    "Aww, my daughter really loves me."


    "Yes! I wuv you!"


    She said, rubbing her face into her mother''s chest. The mother-daughter pair cuddled.


    ... As for me, I watched them with satisfaction. To be honest, I also want to hug my wife. I want to rub my face against her breasts, but I''m a mature adult. I will never fight for my wife''s attention.


    Well, we had a lot of kisses earlier, so I''m okay.


    "Mommy? What hwappened to your neck?" It looked a little bruised?" Sophia asked adorably, not knowing that it was actually a hickey.


    "!!!"


    Penelope almost jumped as she touched her neck. Then she remembered that part of her neck had been sucked by me.


    Penelope looked at me with hateful eyes.


    I looked away. I could not help it! The situation earlier was too unpredictable, so I unconsciously kissed her neck so hard.


    She also bit my lips! Isn''t it unfair that she could bite me if she wanted to, but I couldn''t? Where''s the equality?


    So all I have to do is take the blame? Hah! Not a chance.


    "Honey, a big mosquito sucked your mommy''s blood."


    I explained while Penelope stared at me with her cold eyes.


    "That''s right! Your Dad sucked... I mean the mosquito sucked it, so don''t worry Sophia. It''s just a mosquito bite." Penelope added on my explanation. Oops, she almost slipped.


    "Does it hurt Mommy?"


    "No baby, of course your mommy is strong."


    Just like that, the incident passed slowly.


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    While waiting for the night, I decided to complete my daily mission of exercise.


    [Mission completed!]


    [1 point earned!]


    [Congratulations, another item has appeared in the shop!]


    Huh? The first two messages were old, but the third message was definitely new to me.


    Narrowing my eyes, I decided to check it out.


    ---------------------------


    [SHOP]]


    [Energy Pill]


    [Insignia of Poultry]


    [Points remaining: 9]


    --------------------------


    What the hell does this mean? Insignia of Poultry?


    What is it? Some kind of voodoo thing?


    Out of curiosity, I clicked on the item and read the description.


    [Insignia of Poultry(8 points): Keeps the poultry farm healthy and clean. Free from desease. One year expiration]


    You must be joking. Almost all of my points will be gone if I buy this shit!


    However, I looked at the description of the item and realized that it was actually amazing.


    This badge could last a year and protect the chickens and ducks from any disease! That''s overkill! And it only costs 8 points.


    I could earn 8 points in just eight day. I think this item would be useful for my in-laws.


    I nodded and decided to purchase the item. When I clicked the buy button, the Insignia of Poultry went into my inventory.


    I would open it tomorrow and use it on the poultry farm.


    "Honey, the kids are asleep."


    Penelope said to me. It was already evening and the children slept early because they stayed up late last night.


    "Hm. Let''s sleep too."


    I lay down next to my wife. She snuggled up to me and used my shoulder as a pillow.


    "I love you."


    "I love you too."


    I kissed her forehead and put my arm around her.


    Then we closed our eyes and fell asleep.


    .........


    ......


    ...


    The next day came just like that and I went to the chicken farm early in the morning. I used the Insignia of Poultry and the item vanished just like that.


    This item was beneficial to the farm. I would never hesitate to use this item for the prosperity of my in-laws. They are good people, and they never show any animosity toward me and my family. In fact, they love us very much... Well, except for Se?orita, of course. That bitch is terrible.


    It''s a mystery how Alberto and Corazon produced a bitch like her. It seems there''s always a black sheep in the family.


    Even I was a black sheep.


    I just hope that my two children will never be a black sheep.


    However, I completely forgot one loophole... There might be a chance that one of my future children would be the black sheep. But that problem would show up later, when Penelope and I were old. So far we are enjoying our stay in the province.


    "This will be our last day in the province."


    Unfortunately, because we were so busy, we didn''t have time to take the kids to the beach. Perhaps we will find another time.


    "It''s a good thing they forgot the sea. Otherwise Sophia would start sulking because she didn''t go to the sea.


    Just like that, our last day in the province was over. We packed our things. We gave our remaining chocolates to Penelope''s siblings.


    "Let me take you to the bus station." Simeon got up early to send us.


    "Thanks brother."


    "Twanks Uncle! You''re so cool!"


    Simeon laughed and helped us with our luggage. Since we had already given away all our souvenirs, our luggage was lighter this time.


    The trip was fast and we reached the terminal easily. Now, the usual thing in the terminal was that we would wait for a couple of hours before leaving.


    Fortunately, since there were people who would be returning to Manila just like us, the start of the bus was quicker. Sophia and Roman thought they had forgotten something important and Penelope and I never reminded them. We kept our mouths shut.


    When we got back to Manila, Sophia suddenly remembered the sea. She started to cry and said that she wanted to go back to the province and go to the beach...

 RDD 60

    [Shout out to Cisse!]


    RDD 60


    Have you ever seen a child crying in public? Crying so loudly that she attracted the attention of many people... Well, Sophia was doing that right now.


    She was crying, lying on the ground, kicking her feet in the air... She looked pathetic to be honest.


    "Sophia, I have candies here--"


    "Waahhh! Wahhh-!"


    But no matter how much I tried to calm her down, Sophia would still cry. She was like an unstoppable wave of water that slowly drowned you.


    I tried to reach out to Sophia, but my wife stopped me.


    Penelope looked at me and muttered, "I can handle this."


    Well, Penelope had better experience in babysitting. I''m sure she had a way to get Sophia to stop crying.


    But what I witnessed was shocking.


    Penelope did nothing! She just looked at Sophia and kept her eyes on her to make sure Sophia was not doing something bad.


    Our baby''s request was unreasonable. She wanted to go back to the province to swim in the sea. I talked to her and tried to convince her that we could swim in the pool instead, but Sophia was not happy.


    "Waaahhh-- waaahhh--!"


    Sophia kept crying and crying...but it didn''t take long for her to stop.


    When Sophia realized that her crying wasn''t working, she stopped crying.


    I was stunned and looked at Penelope.


    "That works?"


    "Hm. Sophia will stop crying once she realize that crying does not solve anything."


    "..."


    Was that even a thing?


    Is this even the right way of parenting? Watching your child cry until she stops?


    Considering it worked with Sophia, I guess it kind of works.


    "You''re always at work, so you didn''t know Sophia is using this tactic a lot. At first I tried to calm her down and make her feel better, but it didn''t work. So I ended up just watching her until she stopped crying.


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    ... Okay.


    I''m not the mother here.


    At least Penelope didn''t hurt Sophia.


    I remember when I threw tantrums in front of my mother, she smiled at me and pinched my skin!  Recalling that scene still hurts, even though I''m an adult now.


    I know how hard it is to stop a child from crying, because I was one of those spoiled brats. In my opinion, Penelope''s "watching until the baby stops crying" is far more humane than pinching a child''s soul.


    "Mommy? Do you love me?"


    "Aww, of course I love you, baby~ It''s just that I know you''ll never stop crying once I''ve given you my attention."


    Penelope carried her and wiped her face. Sophia had tears and snot all over her face.


    "... Mommy you bad!"


    Sophia pouted. In the end, she didn''t bother to cry again.


    "Well, since we''re back in Manila. How about we go to a mall and buy some things for the kid?"


    Feeling bad that Roman and Sophia hadn''t seen the ocean, my wife decided to take them to the mall.


    "Yesh!" Sophia was excited when she heard her mother.


    Roman nodded and Penelope smiled too. I agree as well.


    "But Keith, you have to carry our things. Are you sure you can do that?" Penelope asked me worriedly.


    "Don''t worry, I''m confident. Let the kids have fun."


    I had taken my energy pill, knowing that this trip would be tiring. A few extra pounds would never bother me.


    We went to the nearest mall and bought things for the kids. Roman bought colors pencil for his kindergarten.


    As for Sophia, we bought her a baby walker to help her practice walking. As soon as we put her in the walker, Sophia was happy because she could walk with no problem.


    "Mommy! Look! I don''t trip anymore!"


    "My baby is really cute!"


    They giggled.


    I want to take a picture, but I don''t have a camera. Hm, I heard that Nokia has a phone with a built-in camera, I wonder how much it costs.


    Although I prefer a real camera because it has a higher resolution.


    After eating in a restaurant, we returned to our apartment satisfied... Only to find that there was bad news.


    Before we could even enter the building, we noticed that people were protesting in the streets.


    We were confused when we reached the building.


    "Penelope, so you have returned."


    "Mrs. De Guzman."


    We hadn''t seen each other for only two weeks and Mrs. De Guzman had aged a lot. It seemed like it was really bad news.


    "Sigh... You have to listen to me."


    Listening to what Mrs. De Guzman said, my wife and I had a terrible expression. I touched my wife''s hand and reassured her.


    Apparently, the government would start a road widening and our building would be demolished because it was very close to the road. The government promised that each affected house would be compensated.


    "Don''t worry, they gave us six months to move."


    "Are you okay, Mrs. De Guzman?"


    "To be honest, I''m just unhappy. What they are offering is not equivalent to the whole apartment building. I need to talk to them later to clarify some things. As for you... I know a place where you can stay. But the rent will be expensive."


    "Thank you Mrs. De Guzman."


    The children were confused as they watched the people protesting.


    As we entered the old apartment, my wife sighed and sat down on the sofa.


    "Mommy? Are you okay?"


    "Baby, it looks like we are going to find another place to live."


    "Hm." Sophia nodded innocently. She didn''t understand what her mother was saying.


    We have lived in this apartment for five years and consider it our home. Besides, it was hard to find another place with such cheap rent.


    Penelope looked at me and smiled. We both smiled, trying to reassure each other.


    Another ordeal was happening to our family.

 RDD 61

    RDD 61


    In the last few days, my family became restless. The children started to feel the changes and they became gloomy as well.


    There was nothing we could do about it, the protests outside were getting more and more violent, and yesterday some people were seriously injured.


    We didn''t join the protests because we knew it was useless. The government had good reasons to demolish the houses near the road.


    "It is fortunate that Mrs. De Guzman had a good contract with the government. At least she will be able to live the rest of her life without any problems once the house is demolished." Penelope muttered next to me as she folded the clothes.


    This building was already old and Mrs. De Guzman wasn''t selling any apartments. She only rented them, so there was no problem with the residents if the building was demolished.


    As for us, our problem was that we couldn''t find a place to live.


    Well, we still have six months to think about it.


    "Let''s go to church tomorrow."


    Penelope said and the children heard her. They were excited to hear that they could leave the house tomorrow.


    As for me, I just nodded and looked at the list I had made. Since we had received a large amount of money from my in-laws, I started writing down every possible business I could do.


    My intention was to start a small business, maybe selling some food or making a fruit stand.


    It was bothering me these days because I didn''t know what to choose.


    "Honey? Are you listening?"


    "Huh?" I looked at my wife and she was obviously worried.


    She sighed and pinched my cheek.


    "Just take it slow. Once you start your business, you will be busy. You may not have enough time to spend with the kids. So how about we go outside, huh?"


    Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    She smiled and gave me a peck on the lips. I chuckled and hugged her, she yelped in surprise and tried to push me away.


    "Keith, I swear!"


    "It''s not my fault. You''re the one who kissed me. It''s your fault for being too beautiful."


    "Huh!" She snorted, but her lips trembled and curled.


    "Dajjy! Mommy! Hug me too!"


    Seeing us cuddling, Sophia approached with her walker. Penelope giggled and carried her, making Sophia happy.


    "Yay!"


    "What about you, Roman?" Penelope looked at her son.


    "I''m not a kid anymore."


    Roman. This child... Why doesn''t he talk a little more? At least enough for Penelope to understand him.


    Penelope chuckled and approached him instead. She didn''t bother to listen to his antics and kissed him on the forehead.


    Penelope began to shower them with kisses. Sophia giggled happily, while Roman kept his usual stern expression.


    "What about me?" I asked.


    "Humph! You''ll get yours later!"


    ... That means.


    Nice!


    I grinned when I heard my wife''s approval. Roman didn''t have school tomorrow and we didn''t have to get up early.


    So my wife and I are free to do whatever we want, because there''s no reason to get up early.


    If there was one thing I wanted right now, I hope that the time would pass quickly.


    Unfortunately, my wish didn''t come true. The time passed without any changes.


    We decided to stay in the house because the protesters outside were getting crazy.


    While we were eating our dinner, we heard the police siren and lost our appetite. Sophia started crying because she thought the police were going to take her away.


    I looked outside and saw some people being arrested. I didn''t know why they were being arrested... Because of this, the protest intensified to the point that one of the police pulled out his gun and fired into the sky.


    I sighed as I watched the commotion.


    Sophia continued to cry when she heard the shot. My wife had to rock-a-bye her to make her feel better.


    Then I looked at my son. He was busy with his Rubik''s Cube. He didn''t seem to hear the shot, thank God.


    "... Let''s go to sleep."


    I said to them.


    "Mommy! I want to sleep with you! I don''t want to be taken by the police! Wuuu wuuuu, Mommy, I''m scared."


    Penelope was sad to see Sophia crying, so she nodded reluctantly.


    ... Well, I don''t have a choice, do I?


    It seemed that Penelope''s promise would be postponed.


    "Me too."


    Roman added.


    Roman, you''re too old to sleep with us. You''re five years old!


    What? Five years old is still young? So what?


    "..."


    I smiled bitterly and let them sleep with us.


    Sophia was between my wife and me. As for Roman, he slept on the other side of Penelope.


    The little boy said he didn''t want to sleep with me, he preferred his mother... So do I. I want to sleep with Penelope too.


    Sophia slept very cutely, so I guess it was worth it.


    As I slept, I held my wife''s hand. This family was worth my life. I slept peacefully knowing that my wife and children were with me.


    The next day we went out and found that the protest had stopped. It seemed that what happened last night had alarmed them.


    We went to the Catholic Church to pray. To be honest, I was not a devout believer. But what I experienced made me realize that there are divine beings. I even met one.


    We entered the church and sat on the long wooden chair... and spent hours listening to the priest''s sermon. I won''t lie, after a few hours of sitting, my butt hurts.

 RDD 62

    [Shout out to ASTROBOY and Dimanikus E!]


    RDD 62


    The church was filled with people because it was Sunday. In the Philippines, most of the population believed in Christianity.


    The Spanish colonized us for almost 340 years, and they brought us and affected our culture. Of course, they also brought Christianity. So most of the Filipinos were believers of the Catholic Church and born again Christians.


    Because the Spanish colonized us for 300 years, we also have Spanish surnames.


    As you expect, my last name is Castillo, which means castle in Spanish.


    Also, because of this colonization, we learned their language as well. Like mesa (table), seguro (sure), vivo/bibo (active), puta, punyeta, and chupa.. ahem. The last three words were a bit of slang, to be honest.


    Anyway, here I am praying with my family. Sophia and Roman didn''t have much experience going to church. They followed Penelope and clasped their hands and closed their eyes.


    They began to pray for toys and tasty food, typical children''s requests.


    "Papa Jesus, pwease make my Mommy and Dajjy happy. Pwease." I heard Sophia''s sweet voice.


    You know what? Never mind. I think my daughter Sophia is the best in the world. She loves us very much! What a blessing for me to have a sweet daughter like her.


    Then I opened my ears wide to listen to Roman''s prayer.


    "..."


    I could hear nothing. What do you expect? Roman is usually quiet and doesn''t talk much unless you ask him. But since he was praying seriously, I guess he was praying in his mind.


    As for Penelope, she began by thanking the Lord for giving us a good and healthy life. She asked for the Lord''s guidance and blessing.


    Now I guess I have to pray too.


    You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    To be honest, I didn''t have a strong inclination toward any religion. Although I do believe that there''s a higher being.


    But after being hit by a truck and meeting a goddess, I knew that gods are real.


    Maybe every religion you know is real too... Even the Flying Spaghetti.


    [Dear Lord, I don''t know if you can hear me. I hope you give us a happy life, please make my family healthy and away from any sickness and disease... Can you please give me a sign on what business to start? You see, Lord, I''m having trouble choosing what business to do. Can you please give me a sign?]


    Before I could even finish my prayer, a strong gust of wind blew by. Then a piece of paper hit my face.


    I frowned when I opened my eyes. I grabbed the paper on my face and saw the contents of the paper.


    YOU HUNGRY? GET A BURGER!


    "..."


    As I read each word, I fell silent. I looked at the altar and realized that God had given me an answer - by slapping me in the face with a piece of paper.


    "Thank you, Lord." I smiled sincerely.


    I thought these miraculous signs and wonders were nothing but a scam, but to experience it for myself was overwhelming.


    We left the church after praying and Sophia started arguing about which restaurant we should choose.


    There were restaurants near the church, probably because of the good location.


    Sophia had a problem between Jollibee and McDonald''s. These two restaurants were the strongest fast food restaurants in the Philippines. Although Jollibee is still number one.


    It''s a little overwhelming to know that we were not defeated by foreign companies in this regard. Because usually the foreign companies were much better than the local companies.


    At least Jollibee can fight McDonald''s on it''s own turf.


    "What about you Roman? Where do you want to eat?"


    Since Sophia was having trouble deciding, I asked my son instead.


    "KFC."


    "I haven''t eaten at KFC yet, I hear the fried chicken is good." My wife chimed in.


    "Mommy, you haven''t eaten at KFC? I haven''t eaten at KFC either!" Sophia giggled.


    I guess it''s Kentucky Fried Chicken, huh? Let''s go meet Colonel Sanders!


    We entered the restaurant... And it was packed. It was fortunate that Roman found a table for us.


    Since I was the father, I was the one who ordered the food.


    "You look happy, did something happen?"


    My wife asked me while we were eating fried chicken legs.


    "Hm, I found the business I want to do."


    "Huh, what is it then?" She raised her eyebrow and looked at me.


    "A burger stand!"


    At first I thought it was a paper company, but I wasn''t that stupid, was I? It should be burgers, right?


    "That''s good to hear. You''re kind of lost these days," Penelope nodded.


    After eating, I suddenly heard a message.


    -- Ding!


    [Congratulations, another item has appeared in the shop!]


    I was stunned.


    "Honey? Are you okay?"


    "I''m fine. My stomach is just adjusting, I ate a lot, eh." I said as an excuse. However, my mind was curious about the new item in the shop this time.


    ++++++


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 RDD 63

    [Shout out to Swaroop S., Reggie D., and Jacob B.]


    RDD 63


    As we boarded the jeepney to return to our home, my mind was drawn to the system''s notification.


    "Honey, hold Sophia for me."


    Penelope handed me our daughter. It seemed she was getting tired of carrying our little princess. Well, Sophia was getting chubbier these days, which was a good thing.


    As Sophia sat on my lap, pulling the hem of my t-shirt, I opened the System and checked out the Shop.


    [SHOP]


    [Energy Pill]


    [Insignia Of Poultry]


    [Burger Recipe]


    [Points remaining: 5].


    I realized that there was another item in the shop, it was a burger recipe.


    I DAMN WELL KNEW IT!


    That piece of paper that slapped my face meant something. This confirmed that Burger Stand was the right business to choose.


    I thank God for helping me.


    At least now I don''t have any problems.


    However, the burger recipe costs 12 points, and I can''t afford it right now.


    What''s so special about this recipe that it costs more than the Insignia Of Poultry?


    I became interested. Unfortunately, I didn''t have any way to increase my points except for daily training. It only gives me one point every day.


    I sighed. My curiosity is killing me.


    Maybe it''s a burger recipe with a secret ingredient. Just like the Krabby Patty.


    While I was busy, I noticed that Sophia was drooling on my t-shirt. I looked down and saw that Sophia was asleep.


    I chuckled and wiped her drool. I put her in a comfortable position so she could get a good sleep.


    Little princess, daddy will work hard to give you a bright future.


    It was a heavy responsibility, and I was actually afraid. It was not easy for a father like me to put food on the table. What if the kids wanted something extravagant? What if they ask for fried chicken everyday? I can''t afford those.


    Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.


    I''m ashamed that I can''t give them cake every day. I know Sophia loves cake and it was humiliating for me to disappoint her.


    I feel like I''m a disgrace as a father if I can''t provide for them... Damn, I guess this was another reason why the original killed himself.


    As we got closer, I noticed that the street was dirtier because of the garbage all around. The protest last night caused a lot of trouble and left this garbage behind.


    Fortunately, the protesters stopped their riot today. At least the jeepney could pass the street freely.


    When we got out of the jeepney, Sophia weakly opened her eyes and rubbed them.


    "Muaah~" She yawned. A few seconds later, she fell back asleep.


    On the way to our building, I heard murmurs around us.


    "Hey, how about we rob that guy? He''s obviously rich!"


    "Are you crazy? If you want to do it in the middle of the day, don''t blame us if you go to jail... At least wait until night, we can still get his car."


    Huh? At first I was confused.


    But the more steps I took, the more my vision caught a strange yet familiar person.


    "Brother." I murmured as I recognized the person in the American suit.


    "Keith, long time no see."


    Sean Castillo stood beside his car, a red Ferrari. This man was my brother, the one I''m closest to.


    My oldest brother, Jeremy Castillo, was too old and we didn''t have much interaction. All I know is that he was too quiet and he always stayed in his own company. Back when I was a child, Jeremy gave me lots of toys...


    My oldest brother was already married, but his relationship with his wife was a bit complicated, erm, their love story was kinda crazy... Seven years had passed and I had never heard from them.


    "Keith..." Penelope was worried when she recognized Sean.


    "Penelope, take the kids inside."


    I knew Sean wanted to talk to me. I thought I was already an adult, but my chest was still heavy when I saw Sean. I felt like crying.


    I have not seen him for years, of course I feel emotional.


    But I have to keep my pride.


    I approached my brother.


    "Sean..."


    "Hm, looks like your neighborhood is looking at me."


    "Yes, they want to rob you."


    "I see." Sean looked at Penelope and the kids.


    "Hello Penelope? That''s your name, right?"


    "Thank you, brother-in-law, that is indeed my name. Then I will leave you brothers to talk."


    "I have a gift for the children. Actually, it''s only for your son. I''m sorry, I never know that you actually have another child."


    He scratched his head awkwardly.


    "It''s okay." Penelope reluctantly accepted his goodwill and entered the building.


    "Let''s go. I don''t want the atmosphere of this place. I feel like there was a riot here last night." Sean frowned.


    "It did happen last night."


    "Really? Haha, I guess I''m right."


    Sean invited me into his Ferrari.


    I was hesitant. But in the end I decided to get in the car. Maybe I already have an idea why my brother contacted me. I just hoped it would be a good thing for my family.


    If Dad wanted me to leave my family, then I might as well stay broke with my wife and kids. I would never ask for forgiveness. Because this was the life I longed for.


    He took me to a fancy restaurant. To be honest, my clothes were not appropriate for such a place. Fortunately, I adapted easily. I gracefully sliced a tender, medium-rare steak and chewed it in my mouth... I guess I miss this kind of meal every now and then.


    "So how''s your life?"


    "It''s okay. We went to Pangasinan last week and met Penelope''s family."


    "Did you have fun?


    "Yes."


    "That''s good to hear."


    "..."


    "..."


    There was an awkward pause. We were both too uncomfortable to talk. I didn''t know how to talk to my brother and he didn''t know how to talk to me.


    In the end, the first course ended with us eating our food. We both wanted to talk, but we didn''t know where to start.


    "... Are you living well these days, Keith? Your apartment is in a questionable neighborhood."


    "About that..."


    I didn''t know if I should tell my brother that our building was going to be torn down.

 RDD 64

    [Shout out to Phil, Manuel M., Jean Carlos L.C., Benjamin G.!]


    RDD 64


    "If you have something to say to me, speak. Don''t keep your thoughts in your head."


    Perhaps he could see that I was hesitating.


    "Brother, actually... I''m worried about Mom and Dad. Are they okay?"


    "Mom is the same as always, she keeps nagging us. She even pushed me to marry an actress, ahem. As for Dad, he is working on a new project. He started a moving company this year."


    Brother Sean answered honestly. He didn''t realize that I had changed my question in the middle.


    "That''s good to hear." I nodded.


    I''m glad to hear that Mom and Dad are okay. At least according to Sean''s story, they were all fine.


    "As for Jeremy, he''s staying at the corn chip factory. Hell, he didn''t even come back for Christmas and New Year''s. If this continues, Jeremy will probably lose his wife and son. I don''t know what''s going on with him to be honest, he''s too workaholic."


    "I guess he hasn''t changed at all." I laughed.


    After an awkward start, Sean and I had a nice conversation. At least we could talk without feeling awkward.


    "By the way, here. I feel bad that I didn''t give you a present for your other son?"


    "Another son?"


    Was he talking about Sophia?


    Ah, Sophia was wearing blue baby clothes earlier, and she might look like a boy.


    He gave me a... What?


    "Brother, I can''t accept this."


    I stared at the card that was currently in his hand.


    "Come on. It''s my gift for him. Just think of it as a kind gesture from me. Although it has a limit of 50 thousand PHP, I think."


    Sean really dared to give me a credit card. How can I accept it?


    "No, Sean, I will never accept it. You can have it."


    Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    "Tch, this bastard. Can''t you see I''m helping you out here?"


    "Take it."


    We had a stare competition. Men in our family are stubborn. It''s hard to change our decision once we''ve made up our minds.


    "You and your stubborn ass. Okay, I''ll buy a gift instead. What does he want?" He returned the credit card and glared at me.


    "Cake. Sophia likes cake."


    "Sophia? Hm, kind of a weird name for a boy."


    "..."


    I decided not to explain it to him. He might just as well misunderstand.


    Luckily, there was a bakery next to the restaurant. The cost of the cheesecake was so damn expensive. It cost almost my entire week as a taxi driver.


    With no other choice, I accept the cake. I feel like I''m holding a piece of gold in my hand.


    "Let''s go back to your house. Maybe your family misses you."


    "Okay."


    The Ferrari is definitely an attention-grabbing car. Once on the road, people would instinctively look at it. That is the pure power of a sports car. They can attract anybody.


    We returned to the building and people could not help but stare at the Ferrari.


    "I''ll visit you sometime."


    "... Okay."


    Damn, I don''t know how to say that this building will be demolished within six months.


    Well, maybe I didn''t want my brother to feel sorry for me. Deep in my heart, I want to keep my pride.


    This pride of mine might be my downfall, but I don''t want to ask my family for help. I did it for six years, I think I can do it for another decade.


    Besides, I already have an idea how to get money. Once my business is up and running, I don''t need to be ashamed of myself.


    I said goodbye to my brother and entered the building. I went upstairs and reached our floor. Then I realized that my wife was waiting for me.


    She was worried, from the look on her face. I smiled and hugged her.


    "This is a gift for Sophia."


    "Hm... Keith."


    "Don''t worry, Sean didn''t mean any harm."


    "Hm." She nodded and wiped away her tears. We entered the apartment together.


    .........


    ......


    ...


    Sean stood for a few minutes as he watched his youngest brother disappear into the building.


    When he was gone, Sean went to his car.


    "Hey, nice car! I was just wondering if you had any money. You know, helping the poor is a good deed."


    Sean just shrugged. He had met so many people like this guy. He was used to situations like this. As long as you didn''t pay attention to them, they would go away.


    "Tch! Fucking rich people. They act like they are above everyone else. Well, this place will be torn down anyway, I will never see your ass again. Don''t ever come back to this place, you rich bastard."


    The man muttered and left.


    But Sean frowned when he heard something alarming.


    "Hey, what did you say? This place is going to be torn down?"


    Sean pulled out a 500 peso bill and handed it to the man.


    "Huh? Oh yeah. This whole place next to the road is going to be torn down." The man smiled as he took the money. 500 pesos would buy him two cases of beer!


    "Is this apartment building going to be demolished too?"


    Sean pointed to the building behind him.


    "That''s right. Nothing will be left." The man nodded.


    "Thank you."


    After hearing the answer, Sean''s expression turned dark.


    With resentment, he entered the building and asked for Kieth''s apartment number.


    After a few minutes of asking, Sean found the door and knocked.


    "Brother? I thought you left already?"


    Keith opened the door. He was confused as to why Sean was knocking on his door.


    "You fucking bastard..."


    He grabbed the man by the collar and dragged him out of the house.


    "Why didn''t you tell me your apartment was going to be torn down?"

 RDD 65

    RDD 65


    I was shocked when I opened the door. I saw my brother standing at the door, looking at me with a frown.


    Then he pulled me out of the house and yelled at me.


    "Why didn''t you tell me your apartment will be demolished?"


    "Brother? What are you doing?"


    Maybe I was still in shock, I unconsciously asked him after he yelled at me.


    "Heh, this bastard... Didn''t you hear what I said?"


    "Okay, okay, first stop holding my collar."


    "..."


    He pushed me away in a bad mood.


    Hey, that''s kind of rude. If you weren''t my brother, we might have a fight here.


    "Honey?"


    Penelope came out after hearing my brother''s yell. She was slightly pale and looked at me worriedly.


    "It''s okay. I''m fine." I said, adjusting my collar.


    "Keith, do you really hate me that much?"


    Sean''s expression was really bad. Judging by his clenched fist, he was ready to hit me.


    If you ask me. My brothers and I have had some fistfights in our lives. I didn''t back down even when I was facing Jeremy or Sean. Hell, I was not even afraid of my Dad.


    The answer was simple. I was raised very spoiled and my parents gave me what I wanted. So my mentality was like an arrogant king.


    Of the three of us, I was the most problematic and hotheaded. Second was Sean, while Jeremy was the calmest.


    Of course, when I fought my brothers, I always lost. I am much smaller and weaker than I was back then...


    However, I would always tattle my Mom on them and she would beat them instead. That''s my role as the youngest child, to cry and tell my Mom the injustice I suffered.


    But now we were both adults. I have no intention of getting my brother in trouble.


    Besides, I understand where Sean is coming from.


    "Of course not."


    "Then why didn''t you tell me your apartment will be torn down?"


    "Because we don''t have to. Sean, I can find us a place. You don''t have to worry."


    "As expected, you are still stubborn."


    "Waahhh! Waahhh! Dajjy!"


    This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    Suddenly Sophia cried when she saw us yelling our voices. She was crawling, she was still a baby after all. Because of that, her knees and hands were dirty.


    "Baby, I thought you were sleeping on the couch." Penelope carried her and wiped away the dirt.


    "..."


    "..."


    We both fell silent as Sophia stared at us. She looked pitiful. Her eyes shedding tears. It was heartbreaking to see her like that.


    "Wuuu wuuu wuuu wuuu."


    Especially when she stared at Sean. Sean slowly lost his anger. Instead, he felt bad.


    If I''m right, Sean didn''t have a child. I learned how to be a playboy from him. He is much more of a master than I am in the art of Rizz.


    "This child..." He looked at me.


    "She''s my daughter."


    "That''s why her name is Sophia." He completed the puzzle.


    "That''s right."


    "Good thing we bought a cake instead."


    The neighbors came out of their apartments after hearing our ruckus.


    "Sean, how about we go inside?" I invited him. I didn''t want people to hear our discussion.


    "Okay."


    Penelope stopped Sophia from crying after rocking her. Sophia went back to sleep, but her eyes were a little puffy... Damn it, Sean, you motherfucker. You made my daughter sad!


    As we entered the apartment, I saw Roman sitting in the chair with a baseball bat next to him...


    Really, Roman? Can you even swing that bat with your little arms?


    Roman nodded at me. Almost like he knew my question. Roman glared at Sean, clearly showing his hostility.


    "Hey, that kid looks tough. Too bad he''s skinny."


    Sean made fun of Roman and the boy continued to stare at him.


    I sighed. My kids were pretty talented.


    Sean looked around and frowned.


    "This place is so small. How can you live in a place like this?"


    "We live well."


    "Okay. If that''s what you want to say."


    Penelope put a cup of coffee on the table. She cut two slices of cake for us.


    "Honey, you don''t have to. Sean''s going to leave anyway."


    "This kid..." He grinned at me but I knew that he was not happy at all.


    "Keith. I''ll get right to the point. Go back to the house. I can talk to Mom and Dad. I''m sure they''ll understand you-"


    "Never." My answer was clear.


    I would never return. I already have a family.


    "Bro. If you talk to Dad, he will understand. Dad was just thinking about your future back then."


    "Sean, let''s not talk about it. I will never come back to our house."


    "Okay, fine. Then what about Cavite? Cavite is much better than Manila. At least it''s cleaner and more peaceful. Hell, this place is even dangerous for your family."


    "Sean, you don''t have to talk anymore." I insisted.


    "Do you have a place to stay after this building is demolished? Puh--! What is this thing?" His face was ugly after he had tasted the coffee.


    "We are still looking for a place to stay. And what you''re drinking is rice coffee. It tastes great, right?"


    As expected from my wife. She knew how to get even.


    Sean put down the coffee cautiously. He didn''t like it at all.


    "Keith, listen to me. I have a house for you to live in. You don''t have to look for another place. I''ll give it to you for free."


    "What''s the catch? It''s in Cavite?" I grinned.


    "That''s right. But it''s Dasmari?as, Cavite. It''s far from our parents'' place."


    The province of Cavite had eight cities and more than 10 municipalities. It was a wealthy province with an annual income of 3 billion pesos.


    My parents live in Imus Cavite and it was next to Dasmari?as, but they were quite far in reality.


    "..."


    I actually thought about it. My brother''s offer was tempting.


    "I will never tell Mom and Dad. Mom is too talkative to keep a secret. As for Dad... Well, Dad is Dad."


    "..."


    I didn''t know how to answer. I knew how difficult it was to find another place to stay. To be honest, I''m having a hard time sleeping because of this problem.


    I''m worried about the children. I didn''t want them to live in a small house where they can only sit and stand. The apartments in Manila are so damn expensive. I don''t know how inflation has screwed us.


    "Can you keep your promise?"


    "Keith, have I ever lied to you?"


    "Plenty. You lied when you said Jeremy was the one who destroyed my remote control helicopter. You''re the one who stole my piggy bank when we were young..."


    "Ok, ok. But this time I will keep it a secret."


    "I''ll think about it."


    "Good. Then I have to live here until you have your answer." He smiled.


    ... This bastard. What a stubborn bastard.


    "You''re stubborn, huh?"


    "I should tell you that myself."


    We both stared at each other, grinning.

 RDD 66

    [Shout out to Cesar M., William T.N., Danny Y., Jack W., Chase L.!]


    RDD 66


    The Castillo family has a disease called supreme stubbornness. Once we made up our minds about something, it was hard to change our minds.


    Throughout my life, I have seen my father and uncle beat each other because of their stubbornness. I even saw my grandfather beat my father and uncle because of their stubbornness.


    Just like my ancestors, me and my brothers were also stubborn mules. To the point that we had to settle things with our fists. Our fist fights could not be counted by fingers.


    The only way to stop us was to ask the women in the family to intervene.


    My grandfather''s kryptonite was my calm and gentle grandmother.


    Like her, my father could never face my mother when she was angry. In fact, the only time I ever saw my father on his knees was when my mother was crying.


    I can say that my mother''s tears are my father''s weakness. He became soft when it came to her.


    Unfortunately, we three brothers didn''t have any weakness. We could hit each other as much as we wanted.


    What? Rich people don''t hit each other? They are well-mannered and afraid of pain? Fuck you!


    If you''re rich and afraid of pain, you''re a fucking coward! In my family, there are two ways to settle things. With our fists and our determination.


    The one with the strongest fists and determination will win.


    "Sean, I wonder what would happen if I broke your face. Will your actress girlfriend accept you after she sees how ugly you are after I smash your face to the ground?"


    "What about you? Will your wife cry when I smash your head..."


    "Waahh! Waaahhh--!"


    We both jumped as we heard a deafening cry. Sean and I looked at Sophia who was crying.


    "You two... I don''t know what''s wrong with you, but don''t ever show violence to my daughter. Or none of you will leave this place with any limbs. "


    Penelope looked at us with her cold red eyes.


    Both my brother and I shuddered at her gaze. We nodded instinctively, almost like children.


    For unknown reasons, Penelope reminded me of my mother when she was angry.


    Once the women in the family got angry, no one would have a peaceful day. I know this very well.


    "..."


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    "..."


    Sean and I looked at each other and sighed. In the end, we understand that this problem would never be solved if we use violence. We are both adults.


    "Kazir. Please listen to me, I have a house in Cavite. You can stay there with your family. I assure you that Mom and Dad will never bother you."


    I looked at him. Sean was serious. This time I can trust him. But I was still not sure if trusting him was the best thing to do.


    "Kazir, do you have a job right now?"


    "..."


    I closed my mouth. I didn''t know why my brother was asking me about my job.


    "Kazir, I''m asking you. Do you have a job right now?"


    "I quit. I''m thinking about starting a small business."


    "I see," he didn''t have a strong reaction, almost as if he knew that I had already resigned.


    "What kind of business?"


    "Burgers. I want to build a burger stand and sell burgers."


    "I see... Then I can give you a shop for it."


    "What?" I frowned.


    "Do you remember the shop we had next to the entrance of FCIE?"


    "You mean the clothing store? I thought someone is renting it?"


    "That''s right. The owner of the clothing store migrated to America. So far it''s an empty shop."


    "..."


    I remembered that store. FCIE is the first industrial park in Cavite. My uncle''s tire factory was there. Hundreds of thousands of workers went in and out of that place every day.


    Every store near that place received hundreds of costumers every day. It was a little confusing that no one rented the clothing store. Because this store had a good location. It would never be a problem to make thousands every day.


    "..."


    "Keith, do I look like I''m joking? I''m serious, you can use the store. I''ll give it to you for free. Hell, it was yours to begin with."


    "My property?"


    "Yes, it''s your inheritance."


    "I have an inheritance?"


    I thought I was erased in the inheritance will.


    "Don''t look at me like that. Of course you have an inheritance."


    "... Let me think about it."


    "This guy." Sean sighed, defeated.


    We are stubborn about this.


    "Wife, what do you think?"


    This time I asked my wife for her opinion. She was the reason I didn''t want to go back to Cavite.


    Penelope smiled at me. She was rocking Sophia in her arms as she asked me a question.


    "Keith, if you met your parents again, would you choose us or your parents?"


    "Of course you, I love you."


    "Then there''s no need to hesitate. As long as you love us, your parents will never keep us apart."


    "Indeed." I realized something valuable.


    "It is difficult to find a cheap place to stay. We can''t even be sure if the apartment we will rent will be good for us. In that case, going back to Cavite is a good thing. Besides, I don''t like the air here in Manila. It''s too smoky."


    After our vacation in the province, we realized how dirty the air is in Manila. Damn disgusting. Almost as if we were inhaling smoke.


    "..."


    My wife was clearly right. If Sean wanted to help us, then I had to be shameless and accept it. Hell, he wanted to give us a store for free.


    "Wait a minute, do I have to pay you rent?"


    "That depends on you." He shrugged.


    "I''ll pay you 5 thousand a month."


    "Huh? Bro, I want to..."


    "Sean, I''m not a ''Castillo'' anymore. I have to treat you like a landlord and pay you rent."


    Sean was defeated and leaned back against the chair.


    "Okay. But 5 thousand pesos a month is too little if you rent the house and shop."


    "..."


    "Nah, I''m just kidding."


    This guy...


    In the end, Sean agreed and let us live in the house and use the shop for 5 thousand. To be honest, I''m clearly stealing from my brother with that amount.


    "When do you want to leave the apartment?" He asked.


    "Give me three days."


    "Okay, but I want to make things clear. If you leave me hanging and run away again, I will beat you as soon as I find you..."


    "Waahh wahhhh--!"


    Sophia started to cry again and Sean shut his mouth.


    [Author''s Note: I''m going to ramble and say my thoughts on Jujutsu Kaisen.]


    [I''ve never been spoiled in Jujutsu Kaisen, since I''m technically updated every week... Still, it''s really sad that the honored one died. I already have an idea that Sukuna will win because his character is important for Yuuji Itadori''s development. Gege Akutami himself admitted that he hated Gojo Satoru because he was overpowered. I guess we know the reason why Gojo died off-screen. Rest in peace, the honored one].

 RDD 67

    [Shout out to dmf!]


    RDD 67


    My brother and I realized that we were getting childish with this threat.


    Sean coughed and looked at me seriously.


    "Keith, you need to take this seriously. You''re already a father. Think about it carefully. This is my phone number, contact me as soon as you make a decision. I don''t care what the answer is, as long as you call me. Just don''t run away without telling me."


    "I understand."


    I took his contact number. After a few words, my brother left the house. I followed him downstairs and watched him get into the Ferrari.


    It was a mystery that his Ferrari was still intact after being parked on this street.


    "Have a safe trip, brother."


    "Hm, be sure to call me."


    He narrowed his eyes and glared at me.


    "I will."


    When the Ferrari was gone, I heard a bunch of housewives talking about what happened last night.


    "The protest last night indirectly caused the death of a 6-year-old child, so the police showed up."


    "Yes, because they were protesting and blocking the road, the ambulance carrying a child got stuck on the road and died. Seriously, I understand why they are protesting. But why do they have to cause trouble for innocent people?


    Now that was interesting. Protesters usually leave behind a ton of trash after their "relevant" protest against the government.


    Hell, the next two decades would be stunning. Activists would start throwing pies at paintings just to get media attention.


    In my opinion, they are just hungry for attention. If they really want to help the planet, at least do it with goodwill. Not with nonsense like sticking your hands in the street to cause trouble.


    I found it pathetic and sad.


    I returned to the house to find my wife doing the dishes.


    "Honey, about what happened earlier. I''m sorry. I didn''t know Sean was going to cause trouble."


    "I think your brother''s just worried about you." She turned to me and wiped her hands on my shirt.


    She had just finished washing the dishes. Although it was confusing why she used my t-shirt to wipe her hands.


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    "Let''s talk about the shop and the house later."


    "Okay." She nodded.


    "How''s the kid?"


    "Roman''s taking care of Sophia."


    The two of us entered the kids'' room. Roman was reading his homework, almost as if what had happened earlier was nothing to him.


    I approached Sophia who was sleeping.


    I felt bad because my daughter had cried twice and her eyes were swollen. I touched her forehead and felt her twitch.


    "Sophia?"


    "..."


    She didn''t answer. She kept her eyes shut, even though she responded to my touch.


    But it was clear to me that she was faking sleep.


    Did that mean that her cries before were fake as well? She cried because she wanted to prevent Sean and I from causing trouble. It would be stupid to fight in front of the kids, especially crying kids. My daughter might be a smart girl.


    Of course, my daughter doesn''t have any green tea characteristics... I think.


    A few seconds later, Sophia ''woke up'' from her sleep and greeted us.


    "Dajjy, I''m sad."


    "Don''t worry, sweetheart. Mommy and Daddy are always here for you."


    She sulked as Penelope hugged her. Now that we had a possible house and shop, I felt relaxed for some reason.


    I know my brother would never betray me. At least he would try to keep his promise as much as possible.


    "Honey, I am seriously thinking about it..."


    When we entered our own room, Penelope leaned closer and spoke to me.


    "The children need a real house. A house where they can have their own space. With our livelihood, it will be hard for us to rent a big apartment."


    "That''s right."


    I agreed. Renting was already difficult. We didn''t even think of buying a house because the house in Manila was expensive. Even the remaining money in the bank account could not buy a house. Unless we started a housing plan and paid for the house monthly, but that would also be expensive and it would take more than ten years to pay it.


    "Besides, I''m afraid that Manila will not be good for the children. Look what happened last time, you almost got killed. I''m still scared when I think about it."


    "Honey..."


    I put my hands around her waist and pulled her closer. The incident regarding my taxi car was still haunting her.


    She really cried so much when she heard that the robbers pointed their guns at my head. I was scared too, but Penelope was much worse. She cried hysterically.


    "Honey, I don''t want to stay here. I think agreeing with your brother is the best decision. I know I''m a hypocrite, but renting a house and a store for 5 thousand pesos will help us a lot."


    "Honey, you''re not a hypocrite. You''re an angel."


    "Keith..."


    "Penelope..."


    We both stared into each other''s eyes. Our faces moved closer until our lips touched.


    .........


    ......


    ...


    "You guys are pathetic. Seriously, I can''t believe my sons are growing up to be pathetic men."


    An old man with wrinkles around his eyes glared at his two sons. If not for his high blood pressure, he might have already swung his cane at them. He was usually quiet but lately, he was getting talkative. Perhaps affected by his old age.


    "Bradley Castillo, don''t you dare talk to my sons like that."


    "Huh! Your two sons are a big disappointment! I can''t believe I left my companies to them!"


    Bradley Castillo, Keith and Sean''s grandfather. He was usually a quiet person, but once angry, he would start speaking hurtful words.


    Now his two sons were visiting him to tell him what was happening in the companies.


    Bradley Castillo and his wife Matilda Castillo had two sons.


    The oldest son was Henry Castillo and the second son was Ernesto Castillo.


    Henry Castillo had two sons while Ernesto also had three sons.


    The Castillo was full of sons.


    When the two sons visited their parents, they thought their father would be happy because the businesses were doing well.


    But they didn''t know that Bradley''s friends were bragging about their granddaughters and great-granddaughters!


    That''s right, they were bragging in front of Bradley, who had no daughter or granddaughter or great-granddaughter!


    So obviously he was blaming his children for having sons!


    "My sons are disappointing!"


    Henry and Ernesto looked down with sad faces. Obviously, they could not control their sperm... They wanted daughters, too, but their genes gave them smelly boys!

 RDD 68

    RDD 68


    "Father, why are you berating us? We haven''t done anything. We are here to tell you the monthly income of the companies for this quarter."


    Henry spoke to his father, but Bradley Castillo was a stubborn man. He just glared at them in disappointment.


    "Why do you have sons?"


    "What?" Henry was confused.


    "Why do you have sons?"


    "Because I''m married and I love my wife?"


    Henry had two sons and they were doing well. His youngest son was a bit of a playboy and was on vacation in Japan... Probably fucking a Japanese girl.


    "That''s the problem. You have sons! I can''t believe I didn''t have a granddaughter! How can you do that to your own father?"


    "Dad, you''re being misandrist right now." Ernesto joined the conversation.


    The two brothers already knew that their parents longed for a female in the family, but they could not control their sperm. It seemed that the male sperm were fast swimmers.


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    "Shut up, Ernesto. You have three chances, yet you have brought nothing but shame."


    "Father. That''s not what you told me when my children were born."


    "Shut up!"


    "..."


    Indeed, old people were stubborn.


    When Bradley was like this, it was impossible to extinguish his flame. The only one who could soothe his heart was his wife.


    "Now, now, Bradley. You must understand that your sons did their best. You don''t have to belittle them. We can adopt a daughter if you want."


    Their savior, mother Matilda, massaged Bradley''s back to calm her husband.


    "... In a year, I want to have a girl in the family. Otherwise, I will never write your names in my inheritance."


    "Father, you already gave us the companies because you were afraid we would fight over them. There''s no inheritance."


    "I still have the gas stations and resorts in my name." Bradley raised his eyebrows.


    "We don''t need them. We can build our own."


    The two brothers nodded.


    "Bunch of ingrates!"


    "What are we going to do, Father? My wife is menopausal, and Ernesto''s wife has already given birth to three children. Do you really want us to have another one? At our age?"


    "I''m not asking you. You have your sons. Talk to them."


    "Right, what about Sean and Maverick? Those two men are batchelors." Matilda joined the conversation, offering her two grandsons in the formula.


    "..."


    "..."


    The two brothers had bitter smiles on their faces. They knew their sons well.


    Sean and Maverick would rather be single all their lives. They would never agree to get married.


    They had talked to their sons so many times about starting a family, but Sean and Maverick would turn a deaf ear.


    "Just tell me in a few sentences what''s going on in the companies. I trust you to know how to run the companies."


    .........


    ......


    ...


    [WARNING: The following scenes are smut. You can read it on ScribbleHub and Webnovel.]

 RDD 69

    [Shout out to David K., AR3S, Atticus C., Alejandro O.!]


    RDD 69


    "This house..."


    "What? Is there a problem with the house? I can move you to another one if you want, although this is the closest one to FCIE."


    "No, this house is great. Thanks Sean."


    I smiled at Sean after recognizing the house.


    After thinking about it for three days, my wife and I decided to accept Sean''s offer.


    We had already talked to Mrs. De Guzman and she was happy for us. At least we would have a place to live before the demolition.


    So we quickly rented a moving truck to transport our belongings to Cavite.


    "Honey, this place..."


    Penelope came up to me and held my arm.


    The house in front of the house was not new to us couple.


    "Wow! Mommy, this house is so bweautiful!"


    Sophia was amazed when she saw the bungalow house. The house was 25 square meters. By Filipino standards, this kind of house was big. There was a garden behind the house but it was untouched and filled with wild grass instead.


    However, the house is nice and everything looks new. At least compared to the last time we were here.


    I''m not lying... This was the house where I brought Penelope to do those ''things''. We both prefer this house than hotels. This house was beautiful, so of course we liked it.


    I can''t remember how many times I brought my wife here to have some fun... Ah, the good old memories.


    If I''m serious, this could be the place where we created Roman, I''m not going to lie...


    So Penelope''s expression was spot on. She looked at the house with a complicated expression. Maybe she didn''t think we would live here.


    I have the exact same expression. I used to have an extra key to this house, so I can use this house freely.


    The bungalow house has a modern aesthetic. It doesn''t have a second floor, just a ground floor. That''s a good thing because we''re afraid to let Sophia use stairs.


    The house has five rooms. At 25 square meters, this is already enough for a family of four.


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    "Thanks Sean..."


    I repeated. This place has so many ''memories''.


    "Dad, this place looks great. I feel like this house is special to me."


    Roman said after looking around.


    "I know you will say that." I joked.


    Penelope pinched my side as I replied cryptically to my son.


    I helped the movers bring our belongings inside.


    While Roman and Sophia excitedly explored their new home, the adults were busy.


    We put our important things in the room. We will move them later. As for the appliances like the TV and refrigerator, we put them where they belong.


    "Your refrigerator looks old. Are you sure you don''t want a new one? I think I have fridges in my other apartments."


    "No, this one is fine."


    I''m already grateful that my brother let us live in this bungalow house.


    An hour later, the helpers finished their work and we gave them a 100 pesos tip for helping us.


    "Here are the keys to the house and the shop. You already know where the shop is, so you can visit it yourself. You can do whatever you want with the shop. You can renovate it."


    "Thank you."


    "This is the third time you''ve thanked me, and I''m getting annoyed."


    "Okay. Do you want coffee?"


    "N-no." He immediately shook his head.


    Maybe he was traumatized by the coffee rice last time.


    "I''m going to be busy these days. I''m going to Manila to meet someone and I''ll be gone for a week."


    Heh, probably his girlfriend or something.


    "I leave everything to you."


    "Take care, brother."


    Sean drove off in his BMW. The car he used this time was new, I had never seen that car six years ago.


    The house was quiet now that the helpers and Sean were gone.


    "Who likes pancakes?" Penelope said to the kids.


    "Me!" Sophia actively waved her hands.


    To help us adjust to our new surroundings, Penelope offered pancakes.


    The house was intact and clean, but most of the appliances were gone. Leaving appliances in an abandoned house like this was not a good decision. Thieves usually targeted an abandoned house to steal appliances. Besides, no one would use the appliances anyway.


    I checked every nook and cranny of the house to make sure everything was in order. Fortunately, everything was in order.


    The windows and doors were locked, and my keys were the only ones that could open them.


    "Looks like we''re going to have to clean this place up."


    "Why, Mommy? The house looks cwean?" Sophia innocently asked.


    "No, I can still see some dust all around." Penelope frowned, looking at the floor.


    As expected from my wife.


    For lunch today, my wife cooked fried eggs and rice. We set up the stove and Penelope prepared the dishes.


    Roman and Sophia were still amazed at the sheer size of this house. It was so damn big, unlike our last apartment.


    "Dajjy! Will I have my own woom?"


    "Yes baby."


    Actually, we are not sure if we would let Sophia live alone in her a room because she is still young.


    But who cares, as long as my daughter is happy.


    "Yay! Sophia is an adult now!"


    ... When night came, Sophia went to our room crying.


    "Wuuu wuuu wuuu wuuu, Mommy, I want to sleep with you!"


    It seems she still hasn''t gotten used to the sheer size of her room. Maybe she is also afraid.


    Penelope shrugged and let the little girl sleep with us.


    A few minutes later, Roman knocked on our door. He entered the room when I opened it and got into our bed without saying anything.


    Obviously he chose to sleep next to my wife.


    I sighed.


    I can say that our first day in this house was something.


    When I woke up the next day, I helped my wife clean the house. Our belongings are in their proper places and the house finally look like it was meant to be.


    In the afternoon, I cut the grass in the backyard. I know my wife has wanted a garden for a long time. As a daughter of farmers, she loves to dig the soil and plant vegetables.

 RDD 70

    RDD 70


    Our two days in this bungalow house were overwhelming. Two days is not enough to get used to this huge place.


    Since my wife is a neat freak, she urged me to help her clean the house.


    Of course, as the man of the house, I have to take responsibility for the heavy chores.


    While my wife was wiping the windows to make them clear, I was busy pulling grass out of the ground.


    Roman helps me by putting the pulled grass in one place.


    As for Sophia, the baby walker helped her move around. She walked freely while the baby walker helped her stand in the living room. There''s plenty of room for her to play. In fact, I can hear her giggling while I''m pulling grass.


    "Water, honey, Roman?"


    Penelope approached us with a liter of cold water. I drank a glass of water without stopping because I was thirsty.


    I''ve been pulling these grasses for hours, and my daily exercise mission is already complete. So far I have 5 points and I can buy the burger recipe later.


    "What are your plans for the garden, wife?"


    "Hm, I want to plant tomatoes, peppers and lettuce."


    She smiled as she said it.


    "..."


    I thought she wanted to plant flowers, but I guess I''m wrong. Well, fresh vegetables are nice.


    I saw Roman frowning as he drank a glass of water. He didn''t seem to like the idea of planting vegetables. The very existence of vegetables is kryptonite to children.


    "What? Mommy, I thought you wanted to plant fwowers?"


    Sophia overheard our conversation and approached us with her walker.


    "Honey, flowers are useless." She scooped Sophia into her arms.


    "I remember when your father used to give me roses every day. I always throw them away because they are useless."


    "Pfft--"


    I almost coughed up the water I had been drinking. Of course I remember. She always smiled bitterly when I gave her flowers. I thought she didn''t like me.


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    It was months before I realized that she preferred practical gifts than flowers.


    "Well, I heard that you can cook and eat roses, but I didn''t know how to cook them."


    "Are they dewicious, Mommy?" Sophia was curious.


    "I don''t know."


    "Mommy, I want fwowers in the garden. I want to see pwetty fwowers!"


    "Well, maybe we can plant sunflowers. I think they are edible."


    As expected from my wife. The farmer''s blood is strong in her.


    "Yay!"


    Without knowing Penelope''s intention, Sophia was happy because she would begin to see beautiful flowers.


    When she grew up, Sophia would realize that there aren''t any flowers in the garden for decoration. Everything is for practical use.


    Since then, she has been embarrassed to invite her friends to the garden. Instead, the garden turned into a small farm.


    As long as my wife is happy, I''m happy to give her what she wants.


    The family worked to fix everything my wife didn''t like.


    In fact, she frowned as she looked at the color of the paint in Sophia''s room.


    "This room needs good light, why did they use yellow paint?"


    "That''s wight! I want pink! Pwink!"


    The two women protested. Especially Sophia, she likes pink very much.


    "Dajjy..." Sophia turned to me.


    "Of course, sweetheart. We''ll paint your room pink!"


    I didn''t even hesitate. When Sophia looked at me with her teary eyes, I instinctively agreed.


    "I didn''t even have the time to agree..." Penelope raised her eyebrows and I looked away.


    "Wife, your hair is pink and I love pink because of you." I said softly like butter.


    "... Anyway, as long as it''s light pink, I agree."


    Penelope sighed and finally agreed. She was obviously blushing, but I didn''t ask why.


    "Kids, would you like to see our shop tomorrow?"


    "Shop? Yes, yes, yes! I want to see it!"


    Maybe Sophia likes adventure because she is excited to see new things.


    "..."


    As for Roman, he prefers to stay in the house. Maybe he hasn''t gotten used to the new place yet.


    Unfortunately, Penelope will never let Roman stay in the house alone.


    Roman returned to his room dejectedly after realizing that there''s another road trip tomorrow.


    If there''s one thing I realize, it''s that my son is an introvert.


    Strange, because last time he was excited about going to the province. Anyway, I don''t know how to read people.


    When night came, Sophia and Roman were still not used to their new rooms, so they slept with us again.


    ... I''m an adult.


    ... But I need my alone time with my lovely wife.


    ... I''m just a man.


    ... I love my wife.


    Ahem!


    I kept muttering that while Penelope told the children a bedtime story.


    She giggled as she looked at me. Apparently she likes to tease me.


    With no choice, I went to the bathroom.


    No, I''m not going to masturbate. I don''t need to.


    Instead, I opened the System Shop and immediately bought the burger recipe. My decision was made the moment God slapped me with the pamphlet.


    "Ground beef, salt and pepper... You''ve got to be kidding me. The recipe for the burger patty is simple as hell."


    "Bread, lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise and ketchup... What the hell?"


    I thought it would be the so-called ''secret recipe''. But I was damned wrong.


    The recipe was very easy. Even the procedure/instructions were expected.


    I don''t know what to say. I felt like I had been cheated.


    "This is... a burger recipe."


    Indeed. As simple as that.


    I sighed and went back to the bedroom. I saw the kids sleeping next to Penelope and I smiled as I saw them sleeping peacefully.


    Let''s forget the damn recipe and go to sleep, okay?


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 RDD 71

    [Shout out to Robert W., Bonobo, Revan4Life, MMMCMXCIX, or 3,999, Johannes, Ivik hans kristian K., Saud B., Eduardo, Christian P., despot, Edward T., Wenxie, and Cherif D.!]


    RDD 71


    Now, if you''re going to ask me if I''m disappointed with the recipe. I''m definitely disappointed.


    I thought I was going to read some secret sauce of something, just like Krabby Patty. All I got was a simple burger recipe.


    "Hayst..."


    "Honey, are you okay? You''re sighing a lot early in the morning."


    Penelope came over and squeezed my arm. She was worried that I was sighing.


    "Nothing, I''m just thinking about the burger recipe I''m going to use."


    I replied somberly.


    "Is it because of last night?" Penelope crossed her arms and raised her eyebrows.


    "Huh?"


    I tilted my head in confusion.


    "Is it because of the children? Are you upset about them sleeping with us for the first two nights?"


    "Huh? Of course not. I love our kids. If they want to sleep with us, sure, I have no problem." I answered honestly from the bottom of my heart.


    My kids are still young and sometimes they want to sleep with us, especially Sophia.


    As for Roman, heh, I will kick him out of our room when he turns 10. He is too old at that age and needs to sleep on his own.


    "Is that so?"


    She looked into my eyes to see if I was lying. She smiled when she realized I was sincere.


    "Well, I''ll talk to the kids later if you want." She said as she squeezed my arm. Weakly purring.


    And Oh Boi, I know damn well what she''s saying.


    "Wife!"


    "Kyah-!"


    I grinned and hugged my wife. Penelope yelped in surprise and giggled.


    We stayed like that for a few minutes before we resumed our duty. Hm, my wife smells so good.


    She doesn''t like to wear perfume, so this is her natural scent. All I can say is, I''m addicted!


    I put my nose on her neck and smelled her! Almost rubbing my nose against her.


    "Fufu. Honey, you''re tickling me."


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    We giggled like little kids and hugged each other.


    Then I went to the bathroom to brush my teeth. Our room has a built-in bathroom so we didn''t have to leave the room.


    Our plan for today was to visit the empty store at the entrance to FCIE. We already had breakfast and took a bath.


    After getting ready, we left the house.


    Sophia was excited as we walked around our neighborhood. She was fascinated by the different architecture of the houses.


    Our house is in a wealthy subdivision and most of the families here are above middle class. Maybe not super rich, just enough to buy two cars and stuff with their bank account, I guess.


    Walking around, I realized something.


    This place is so damn huge that it will take us an hour just to leave the subdivision! Miles and miles of walking!


    We need a car! We need a car! God, I hope someone will give me a car today.


    "Penelope..."


    "Yes, honey?"


    "I think I need to carry the kids when they get tired."


    "Yes, I think so." She laughed.


    "If you want, I can carry you too." I teased.


    "Dream on, Keith Castillo. You''ll break your back."


    "I can break your back... ahem."


    I replied sarcastically and received a cold look. Although I saw my wife slightly grinning. Yep, that''s it, I will break my wife''s back tonight...


    Anyway, after a few minutes of walking, I was really carrying the kids.


    Luckily, I consumed an energy pill today. I can carry the children without any problem.


    However, I noticed that Penelope was the one who got tired. My wife wiped her sweat as she smiled at me, carrying the two kids.


    The hot sun+walking miles, definitely a bad combination.


    I pursed my lips. I felt sorry for my wife.


    ... Maybe I can apply for a loan? Of course I won''t buy a car. A motorcycle is enough, I can turn it into a tricycle.


    Fortunately, we met a woman who had a car. She offered us a ride to the entrance of the subdivision and we gladly accepted.


    "Thanks, pwetty lady!" Sophia waved her hands adorably.


    We thanked the woman after getting out of the car.


    Now that we have reached the entrance, we can catch a jeepney to take us to FCIE.


    FCIE.


    Also known as the First Cavite Industrial Estate.


    This place was one of the reasons why Cavite became prosperous. The amount of money that FCIE generates every year could cost a billion pesos.


    When FCIE was built, it gave jobs to the people of Cavite, which made many families rich.


    In fact, my grandfather''s very first construction project was in FCIE. He was assigned to weld steel fences in one of the factories.


    From then on, my grandfather''s construction company got one project after another until he had enough money to invest in car wash and car repair shops.


    Then my father and uncle took over and started a tire factory and a corn chip factory.


    ... Now that I think about it, I feel like I missed something important.


    I only realized it when I got to the shop.


    We took a jeepney to get there. A few meters walk and we found the shop. I was stunned and my foot stopped walking.


    "Dajjy?" Sophia, who was in my arms, was confused.


    "Honey, why do I feel like this situation has already happened?" Penelope whispered next to me after staring at someone.


    "Dad, I don''t have my baseball bat."


    Roman, what are you talking about?


    My family and I were shocked to see another shocking event.


    "That''s right, I told Sean I was going to the shop today... That bastard, he betrayed me."


    I gritted my teeth.


    My vision clearly caught a BMW car. But that was not the focus of my vision, I was looking at the man inside the BMW.


    The man has black hair and blue eyes, just like Sean and me.


    But he was wearing glasses and he has a thick moustache and beard.


    If I have a stubble, then this man has a bearded face.


    "Dajjy, he looks just like you, an older version." Sophia was surprised.


    "Sweetheart... Let''s go say hello to your uncle." I said to my daughter.


    I didn''t expect to meet my eldest brother right before my first visit to the shop.


    Jeremy Castillo adjusted his glasses after seeing us. He didn''t change his expression, he just stared at us.


    "Brother..."


    "..."


    What was I expecting? Jeremy kept his mouth shut most of the time.


    I felt awkward and didn''t know what to say. Especially when Jeremy doesn''t talk much.


    Seriously, why does my family have these genes of being quiet in every generation?


    Is one of my ancestors mute or something?

 RDD 72

    [Shout out to Wanja A., Marcelo M. and Chris C!]


    RDD 72


    "Brother, has Sean talked to you about me?" I asked looking at his face.


    Damn, his mustache is sophisticated!


    Instead of answering my question, Jeremy just nodded and got out of the car.


    He looked at my family and then at me. He didn''t linger and instead gave me something.


    He gave me a key.


    "What''s this?"


    I frowned. Why do my brothers keep giving me things?


    If this is a novel, readers will probably be disappointed because I got these things so easily. They will probably give my novel less than three stars. They will say that my grammar is bad and that I keep using past tenses.


    I''m from the Philippines. There''s no right or wrong grammar here, hell, we don''t even use the correct grammatical number. Everything is singular.


    Jeremy just smiled.


    "Brother, please speak. I know you can speak. When we were young we had a conversation about tits, asses and thighs. You said you like tits while Sean prefers thighs. As for me, of course I like ass. So please don''t play that mute game with me."


    Heck, Jeremy said he likes big firm tits. A man of culture.


    "..."


    I already have an idea about the key he gave me. It reminded me of something.


    But I feel bad.


    I didn''t work to get these things, the house and the shop. They just fell into my hands.


    Maybe the goddess is helping me right now.


    "Mommy? What does tits mean?"


    Sophia innocently asked her mother.


    Penelope''s lips twitched and she looked at me. Luckily, I was busy talking to my brother, so I didn''t feel her cold gaze.


    "The car is yours to begin with. Don''t worry, I kept it safe."


    ... Damn it.


    Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    Jeremy''s voice is so damn heavy. I feel like I''m listening to Morgan Freeman.


    Is it because he is tired these days and his voice is hoarse?


    He pointed to a car not far from the shop. I turned around and saw the old car my dad gave me in 1993.


    "1992 Toyota pickup truck..."


    To be honest, this car was one of my least favorites because only two people can ride inside. The purpose of this car was to be a small pickup truck. Simple as that.


    It was much smaller than a truck, but it was enough to buy ingredients at the wet market.


    I looked at Jeremy in shock.


    He nodded and motioned for me to approach the car.


    "..."


    I swallowed and walked over to the car.


    With the key Jeremy gave me, I opened the car and got in.


    "Brother... Thank you."


    Compared to my younger years when I was a complete asshole, I''m a different person now.


    I appreciate all the goodwill I have received. My arrogance has been dissolved by hardship and reality.


    I''m a family man now. I have to be mature for the children. It is not wrong to accept this gift.


    "It looks like you like it. I have more to give you."


    "Brother, what are you talking about..."


    Before I could finish my sentence, a truck filled with kitchen equipment gradually showed up and parked in front of the shop.


    "Brother, don''t tell me..."


    "These are the old cooking utensils from the factory. They''re just rotting in the basement, so it''s better for you to use them."


    "Brother..."


    I sniffed.


    Unlike Sean who likes to use physical strength to show his love, I prefer Jeremy''s silent but firm love.


    "Let me hug you, bro."


    "Don''t touch me. It''s gay."


    "..."


    I almost choked.


    So things happened and I helped the people from the factory move the equipment into the shop.


    My wife and two children watched a few feet away.


    As for Jeremy, he left after delivering these things to our shop.


    He gave us a mixer for the bread/meat. He also gave us a meat grinder.


    Is that a meat fridge?


    The only thing missing is the griller. Well, with my budget, I can buy one.


    I didn''t know what to say. My brothers really love me.


    I suddenly realized that I''m an asshole for not contacting them for six years. I let my brothers down.


    I wiped away my tears and entered the store. Penelope squeezed my arm and looked at me worriedly.


    I''m being childish right now. But my tears and snot are running down and I can''t control them.


    "..."


    It took me a few minutes to calm my emotions. I looked inside the shop and found that it was wide enough for the kitchen and a few tables.


    "Looks like I need to find a contractor to renovate the place."


    The dust was everywhere and Penelope frowned. This place might be empty for a while.


    After we checked the shop and made sure that the equipment inside was safe, we closed the shop again.


    We just want to see the shop for the first time. Tomorrow, I will contact a contractor to renovate the shop.


    The atmosphere of the shop was already great. I just need to build a kitchen inside and everything will be fine. Then I can start the business.


    Oh, I almost forgot, I have to register my business.


    "Now that I think about it. Honey, why don''t we register our place of residence in Cavite? Since we''ll be living here from now on, it''s good to change our family registration. Besides, Roman has to enroll in elementary school this year. "


    Since Roman inherited his mother''s IQ, he didn''t have any problem learning in kindergarten. So he easily passed.


    Kindergarten is pretty lenient in the 1990s and early 2000s. As long as a kid behaved well, the teachers will pass him. Just like that.


    "Okay, you can register us tomorrow."


    One adult is enough for this kind of thing. On top of that, Penelope has to take care of the kids.


    After meeting my oldest brother for the first time, we went back to the house in the Toyota pickup.


    It was good that the children were small. Otherwise the car would be too cramped.

 RDD 73

    [Shout out to Timothy S!]


    RDD 73


    "Honey, take care."


    "Where''s my kiss?"


    "Fufu, don''t be silly."


    "That''s not fair! You just kissed Sophia. Why can''t I get mine?"


    "Honey, you''re being childish today. It''s early in the morning, you have to go to City Hall to register our family and business."


    "Where''s my kiss?"


    "..."


    I feel like I''m acting like a child today. Well, I want my kiss.


    "Dajjy, I can kiss you instead!"


    Sophia appeared, crawling.


    Oh, my sweet daughter. Unlike my wife, my daughter obviously loves me.


    "Sweetie, I''ll buy you a cake when I get back."


    "Pwomise?"


    "I promise."


    "Yay! Dajjy, carry!"


    I obeyed Sophia''s command and carried her. She kissed me on the cheek.


    "Muah! Heh. Don''t fowget the cake, Dajjy. Otherwise Sophia will never kiss you again!"


    She giggled... Why do I have the feeling that my daughter just threatened me? Meh, probably just my imagination.


    How could my sweet daughter have inherited Penelope''s bad side? Of course Sophia will be my sweet daughter, forever.


    I gave her to Penelope and Sophia cuddled with her mother.


    "... Come here."


    "Hm?"


    I took a step closer and my wife suddenly kissed me.


    I was stunned and looked at Penelope. She was smiling, but her cheeks were flushed.


    "Wah! Mommy''s face is wed! Mommy is wed!"


    "Hush, Sophia. I''m not red. Today is just too hot!"


    Mother and daughter giggled.


    "How about you, Roman? Do you want to kiss me?"


    If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    I looked at my son who was reading Abcd''s. At the age of 5, he could read English...


    At that age I was still trying to be a Super Saiyan.


    "Dad, that''s gay."


    "..."


    Okay, I guess my son doesn''t like kissing his dad. No problem, I understand. I didn''t want to kiss my dad when I was young, he was a grumpy man who was always busy with his business.


    After being kissed by my daughter and my wife, I left the house.


    I used the Toyota pickup truck and drove out of the neighborhood. I was grateful to have a car. I feel bad that I hated this car when I was young...


    "Don''t worry Toyo, I will never let you down again."


    I said, tapping the steering wheel.


    That''s right, I already named the car after receiving it yesterday. Toyo is already a member of the family.


    Unlike Manila, which was plagued by air pollution and daily traffic. Cavite had fresh air and the road traffic is much better than in the capital. At least I can reach the city hall of Dasmari?as in ten minutes... That was damn fast, to be honest.


    There were fewer cars now.


    "Two decades and Cavite will also have traffic jams."


    That''s still a long time and it''s not my problem. The mayor should think about it, not me.


    "Hello, where can I register?" I asked the guard.


    "Are you new here?"


    "Yes, my family is from Quezon City. We decided to live in Cavite."


    "Hm, go to the second floor."


    "Thank you."


    Registration was very important. If I''m not registered, I can''t vote in Dasmari?as.


    Actually, Penelope has to register as well. But she can''t come with me because she has to take care of the children.


    When you turn 18, you should register. That''s one of your duties as a citizen of the Philippines... It''s the sign that you''re an official taxpayer.


    To register, the city hall needs my birth certificate and fingerprints. It''s a hassle. It has a long process. So it''s better to register early in the morning.


    Some of the female interns kept glancing at me, so I checked my face in front of the mirror and found nothing strange.


    After signing everything, I gave the photocopy of my birth certificate. I also signed my fingerprints. So the tips of my fingers were marked by a blue thumb printer.


    As for the business permit, I gave my requirements and paid the required amount.


    When I was done, it was already 2 pm. It took me more than six hours to complete the process...


    I was sweating when I left the city hall.


    "Damn, the city hall is so small."


    Even though there was an air conditioner in the building, it was still hot. The place was so crowded that the air conditioner was considered useless.


    "Ah, I have to buy gifts for the children."


    If you ask me, I don''t want my daughter to hate me.


    Fortunately, there are a lot of convenient shops around the place. I can see a restaurant, a print shop, a bakery, and so on.


    So I bought a box of cake. It was very expensive, worth 300 pesos.


    If I buy that every day, I might go bald...


    With a box of cake, I got into the car and left the place.


    "It''s hot..."


    I realized one of the reasons why I didn''t like this car... The air conditioning was not working.


    So I opened the windows to let the air circulate inside the car.


    Just like that, I spent half of my day registering my residence and business.


    When I returned to the house, the children were asleep.


    Penelope always made sure the children were asleep at noon. She said the children would grow faster if they slept at noon.


    "How was your day?"


    She handed me some cold water and I drank it in a few seconds. Ah, the taste of water. It''s so hydrating.


    "I have already registered. Tomorrow I will contact a construction company to renovate the shop."


    "That''s good. You should rest."


    "Hm."


    She helped me take off my T-shirt. She wiped away my sweat. I didn''t notice that she looked at my broad shoulders.


    She swallowed, but I thought she was just thirsty like me.


    "Honey, I''m going to the room and take a rest. I bought a cake, you can give it to the kids later."


    "Y- Yes... How about I sleep with you?"


    "That''s fine."


    Because I was tired, I didn''t feel Penelope''s signals. I fell asleep easily.... When I woke up, I noticed that my wife was acting grumpy, laying next to me.


    "Humph!" She scoffed.


    "Did I do something I didn''t know about?"


    I muttered but she just lay there.

 RDD 74

    [Shout out to Overated!]


    RDD 74


    "Honey, what''s wrong?"


    I asked my wife while she was doing the dishes. I felt that she had been acting strangely all afternoon.


    The kids were watching TV. They didn''t have much to do.


    "It is nothing. Why are you asking?"


    "..."


    I mean, wife, you are clearly glaring at me. I feel that I have done something wrong.


    At least explain it to me.


    "You are acting strange. Just tell me what''s going on, babe. Did I do something to make you angry?"


    "Me? Acting strange? No, not at all. I''m fine. Besides, if you think you made me mad, what do you think is the reason?"


    How can I know if you don''t tell me?


    Women.


    God, I want a cup of coffee. And proceed to do the meme...


    I smiled bitterly and took another step closer.


    "Want me to help you with the dishes?"


    I whispered next to her ear and I felt her shiver.


    "... Just go away. I can do it myself."


    Instead of being coquettish, Penelope glared at me. Although her face was quite red.


    "..."


    Women. *Sipping coffee*.


    I ask calmly. Based on what I know, I haven''t done anything wrong. I''m sure of that.


    When I got back to the house, Penelope was still fine. But when I woke up after a nap, she was acting strange. Did I miss something?


    "Are you mad because I didn''t buy you a separate cake?"


    "Keith Castillo, go in the living room and play with your children. Don''t bother me. Do you understand?"


    If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    She smiled at me, but her eyes were so cold and heavy. She had a ceramic plate in her hand, and I felt like she was going to smash my head with it.


    What''s wrong with that, I said? I just asked her if she wanted a separate cake.


    We have a car now and I can go out and buy a cake just to appease my wife.


    It''s still early in the evening. I''m sure I can find open bakeries to buy a cake.


    "Okay, fine.... Honey, you know how much I love you."


    With no choice, I sighed and walked out of the kitchen.


    "Wait."


    Before I left, I turned to see Penelope looking at me with a stern look.


    "I''ll talk to the kids and tell them to sleep in their rooms tonight. If Sophia doesn''t like sleeping in her room, then maybe I can move her crib into Roman''s room... So..."


    She could not finish her sentence because her face was blushing.


    Well, I may be an idiot, but I can understand what she said.


    Finally, my wife said something I could understand!


    "Don''t worry, I''ll carry the crib into Roman''s room. Roman is reasonable. I''m sure he won''t be upset that Sophia will be sleeping in his room. At least our children will not be afraid to sleep alone."


    "I- Indeed."


    She stuttered.


    God, my wife is gorgeous. I want to eat - I mean, I want to hug her right now.


    I walked up to her and hugged her waist.


    "I love you."


    "Hm, I love you too."


    Her hands were wet as she hugged me.


    I still didn''t know why she was angry earlier, but at least she is in a good mood now.


    "Hm, now take care of the children. Make sure they don''t watch too close to the TV."


    "I will."


    I left the kitchen in a good mood after hearing my wife''s approval.


    With a smile on my face, I sat down next to the children. They were watching a Korean drama.


    "Dajjy, why are their faces different from ours? Their skin is too white. They have snow too!"


    Being a curious child, Sophia kept asking questions.


    "You see, sweetie, they live in another country. They have snow, so maybe that''s why their skin is too white compared to ours."


    To be honest, I didn''t know the answer.


    "Is that so? They are so pitiful because their place is always cold. Look, Dajjy, even that pwetty lady on TV was cwying because her mother-in-law kicked her out. It was so cold outside and she''s cwying. So pitiful. I don''t want to be like her, Dajjy."


    ... Okay. I don''t know why they chose a Korean drama to watch. Filipinos like foreign dramas, especially Korean, Mexican, and American dramas. So local channels would buy the copyrights to show it on TV.


    "Kids, what movie do you want to watch tonight?"


    I looked at my watch and realized that it was still early in the evening.


    "I want Cindewella!" Sophia replied.


    "Toy Story." Roman said.


    "Well, we have to choose between the two."


    In the end, the kids chose Toy Story. Even though original videotapes are expensive, my job as a taxi driver is much better than most jobs. Buying a videotape once a week is not a problem.


    Even though they had seen Toy Story so many times, they were still interested in watching it.


    Two hours passed and the kids were already tired.


    "Honey, you have to sleep with your brother this time."


    "But I want to sleep with you, Mommy." Sophia replied groggily.


    "Sweetheart, you will never grow up if you keep sleeping with us."


    Penelope is right... Ahem.


    The children have to start sleeping on their own. That''s why it''s a good thing we have so many rooms in this house.


    "... Okay."


    Sophia sulked. But because she was so tired, she didn''t fight back.


    I had already prepared her crib and she could sleep in her brother''s room.


    As for Roman, he was already asleep.


    Once the kids were asleep, Penelope and I went to our room and started our night.


    She noticed that my stamina was getting better. It was thanks to my daily exercise and the Energy Pill. The combination of the two made Penelope cum so many times...

 RDD 76

    RDD 76


    "So, Sir Castillo, you want to renovate the shop and add a kitchen?"


    "Um, a place to cook burgers to be exact."


    "So kitchen, is that right? Unless there''s another term for a place to cook burgers? What do you think?"


    "No. I think calling it a kitchen is enough."


    I mumbled and looked at the woman in front of me.


    I hired a construction company to renovate my shop. The contract cost more than 40 thousand pesos, together with the equipment, sand, gravel, many things related to construction.


    Of course, the salary of the workers was already included in the contract.


    To be honest, I didn''t know if 40 thousand pesos was expensive to renovate a shop.


    If we convert 40 thousand pesos into dollars, it is about 700 dollars.


    Well, the minimum income was still low at this time.


    "So here''s my design plan for the store."


    The woman gave me the design plan after she checked the store three days ago.


    The woman before me was actually an architect. She is Ms. Hermitanyo.


    I saw the designs. I was impressed that she designed this in just three days.


    "Excuse me, did you draw this?"


    "No, our company has a draftsman. Do you really think I have enough time to draw these plans? Mr. Castillo, you are insane."


    The woman narrowed her eyes and looked at me.


    "..."


    I didn''t know what to say. The company has four architects and I am hiring a cheeky one.


    "Okay. I''ll take the simple one. That Modern aesthetic."


    I said. I really don''t know the difference between these "Neo-Classical", "Greek Revival" and "Modern" architectures. I was just saying what was on the paper.


    One of these designs that I like is the Modern Architecture style.


    "Meh, typical."


    The woman shrugged her shoulders and told me to sign the contract.


    I decided to keep my mouth shut. The woman in front of me is over 40 years old. I''m actually impressed that she has a strong career in the construction industry.


    I don''t mean any harm by saying this. I''m just telling the truth, construction is a male-dominated industry.


    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    "Um, Ms. Hermitanyo. Do you have a family?"


    "Husband? I don''t need a man in my life. I''m obviously happy with my six-figure annual salary! With nothing to spend! With my big house without people! Waking up alone in the morning! What? Do you think I need a partner because I will be lonely when I get old? I don''t care! Men are assholes. Humph!"


    She glared at me.


    "..."


    I only asked her if she had a family. I didn''t even say the word "husband".


    Why did she start telling me her whole life?


    Woman, calm down.


    I kept my smile on my face.


    Ms. Hermitanyo checked the shop and nodded at something. Then she started to write something.


    "The renovation will be finished in about 3 weeks."


    "Thank you."


    "Humph!"


    The woman drove off with her car.


    "What did I do?"


    I said as soon as she was gone.


    I shook my head and decided to forget about it.


    I already paid the down payment which was 20 thousand pesos. I will watch their work every day to make sure they are not cutting costs and being lazy.


    The contract cost more than 1/3 of my money in the bank. Of course, I have to make sure that the finished product is good.


    .........


    ......


    ...


    When I came back to the house, I was greeted by my children again. Especially Sophia, she is really cute. She always hugs my knee when I come back.


    I can''t help but love my daughter more.


    "Here''s some lemon juice."


    "Thank you, honey."


    Penelope gave me a cold juice as I sat down. There are only two kinds of weather in our country, rainy and sunny.


    The sunny weather today is not just sunny. It''s SUNNY!


    The average temperature in Cavite is 30 degrees Celsius. I''m telling you, this temperature is actually cold.


    Yes, 30 degrees Celsius is cold. Everyone in the Philippines will agree with me.


    Unfortunately, today the temperature was more than 35 degrees Celsius. That''s enough to cause heat stroke.


    So I''m thankful that my wife gave me a cold lemon juice.


    "I love you, honey." She whispered and hugged me from behind as I drank my juice.


    Last night was pretty intense. Our sex was so hot and sexy that my wife had orgasms so many times.


    That''s why she''s so clingy today. And I love it!


    "Hm, I love you too."


    I replied after putting down the glass.


    "Fufu." She giggled, obviously in a good mood.


    "Mommy, I want wemon juice too!" Sophia approached us on her walker.


    "Honey, you just drank three glasses of lemon juice. It''s not good to drink that much juice, do you want to pee in your diaper?"


    "Yes! You''re the one who''s going to change it anyway!"


    "..."


    Penelope was speechless.


    I almost burst out laughing.


    While Penelope and Sophia were talking about drinking lemon juice, my phone started ringing.


    I noticed that the contact information had a name of Simeon. It''s Penelope''s older brother.


    "Hello, Simeon?"


    "Brother-in-law, it''s me, Santiago. I used big brother''s phone to contact you."


    "Santiago? Why are you calling me?"


    Santiago is the youngest son of the family. He says he wants to go to college.


    "About that, brother-in-law... My Uncle said he can enroll me in a college in Cavite. But I didn''t know the address, so I want to ask you."


    So their family actually has a relative in Cavite? I asked myself.


    "He''s not blood related but he lived in our village four years ago." Simeon added.


    Ah, that''s explains it.


    "Cavite, huh..."


    Fate was really playing with us. I chuckled and answered.


    "Santiago, did you know that we live in Cavite now?"


    "Huh? No, I didn''t know that."


    In fact, we''ve only been here for five days. Penelope still hasn''t called her parents about our situation.


    So Santiago is probably not lying.


    "Listen to me..."


    I started to tell him what happened this week.


    "Really? You live in Cavite now?"


    Santiago was shocked by the way he raised his voice.


    "That''s right." I nodded.


    "This..."


    "If you want to find a place to stay, I have something to offer you... I''m going to open a shop and I need help."


    Well, it all depends on Santiago''s decision. As long as someone can stay in the shop to guard it at night, I''m fine.


    I have a night watchman while Santiago has a place to stay.


    Why don''t I invite him to our house instead? The answer is simple, I don''t want any adults living in our house except me and my wife.


    Simple as that.

 RDD 77

    RDD 77


    Rent in Manila is very expensive. It''s lucky that we met Mrs. De Guzman. She gave us a home.


    Her apartment may be old, but it was our home for almost six years. That''s where Roman and Sophia were born...


    I''m not actually lying. I begged my wife to go to the hospital, but she said she could give birth at home. So we called a midwife and Penelope gave birth to Roman in the house. That also happened to Sophia.


    I can say that the children grew up healthy. But I don''t know if giving birth in the house has anything to do with it.


    Penelope said that her mother gave birth to all her siblings in the house. Corazon, my mother-in-law, said that hospital is expensive. She said that the doctors don''t care about the patient''s health. It''s all about the money...


    Corazon got a point.


    There''s a reason a lot of people want to be doctors. Not because they want to save lives. Instead, they want to make money. Doctors make a lot of money.


    Anyway, I''m getting off the subject. All I can say is that the rent is expensive.


    So I recommend Santiago to use the shop as his home instead.


    I know I might be a hypocrite... But even my wife told me to let Santiago sleep in the shop instead.


    Penelope said that Santiago is already an adult and he should experience how hard it is to live in society.


    She already knew that Santiago wanted to go to college. She didn''t have a problem with her brother leaving the province. She believes that men should be tough and strong for their families.


    "So here I am, waiting for Santiago to come." I said to myself.


    Santiago didn''t have a cell phone to call me. So the best I can do is wait for him to arrive at the bus terminal without knowing the exact time he will show up.


    To be honest, I''ve been here for almost three hours and I still haven''t seen him...


    It has already been four weeks since the shop was renovated and we can start the business. I''m just letting the air circulate so the shop will smell nice.


    Our first month in the new house has been amazing. Penelope has already bought seeds for the garden. As for the kids, they are already adjusting to their new home.


    If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    One of our neighbors also have a child. Roman and Sophia have been interacting with her and they have become friends.


    ... I still don''t know the name of their friend because I''m busy these days. I made sure that the renovation went well.


    I bought the appliances that were missing in the store. I also bought a week worth of food for us. I also took my children to the marketplace for them to have some fun.


    I''m very busy, but I make sure that I spend some time with my family.


    I also continue my daily mission. Because of my healthy body and Energy Pill, I don''t get tired much... I have enough stamina for the whole night. My wife is getting so affectionate, and I''m not complaining, I''m actually happy.


    "Hm."


    My thoughts were disturbed when I noticed a bus entering the terminal. I watched every passenger getting off the bus until I saw my youngest brother-in-law.


    "Santiago!" I shouted.


    "Brother-in-law!"


    Santiago smiled when he saw me. He looked around, he felt strange looking at the surroundings.


    "Brother-in-law, the capital is amazing! I know Manila has so many big buildings, but I can''t believe they are so BIG! I feel like an ant in front of those buildings."


    I just laughed.


    There are many differences between the province and Manila.


    They also have pros and cons.


    Cavite is milder than Manila. It''s close to the capital, but there''s no air pollution. Although two decades from now, Cavite would also suffer the same situation.


    "Let''s go, your sister is waiting for you."


    "Yes!"


    We left the terminal and reached the parking lot.


    "Brother-in-law... This is?"


    "Yes, this is my car."


    "You bought a car? Can 100 thousand pesos buy a car?"


    He looked at me with a dropped jaw. He was so shocked.


    "No, this is an old car that my brother gave me."


    "I-I see."


    He didn''t know what to say, so he just got into the car awkwardly. He sat carefully on the seat.


    "Close the door." I said.


    "Yes!"


    He closed the door carefully...


    "Close the door firmly and strong so it doesn''t open while we''re on the road."


    "Okay... Um, brother-in-law, how do you open the door?"


    "..."


    It seemed that this was the first time Santiago used a car.


    I instructed him and he closed the door right this time.


    The atmosphere was a bit awkward because Santiago kept looking around.


    "You''ll get used to Cavite. Take your time to get to know the city."


    "I will."


    He nodded, quite excited.


    When we reached the house, I found my children playing with a girl who was about 4 years old.


    "Pwetty sister! You''re so cwool!"


    Sophia told the little girl.


    To be honest, I still don''t know the girl''s name because Sophia calls her "Pwetty Sister".


    "Hehe, don''t worry Sophia. When you grow up, I will teach you how to fold paper and make paper boats!" The little girl said enthusiastically.


    "Yay!"


    "We''re here."


    I announced, entering the house.


    "Dajjy!"


    When Sophia heard me, she wobbled and hugged my knee again. I chuckled and carried her.


    "Say hi to your uncle."


    "Hello Uncle Santiago!"


    "Wow, Sophia remembers me!"


    "Hehe."


    Sophia giggled and mano''d us both. Mano is a way to show respect to your elders. It''s a culture that slowly died when the new century came.


    "Hello sir..."


    The little girl greeted us as well.


    "Hello." I replied.


    Sorry kid, I still don''t know your name.


    "Uncle."


    Roman appeared and greeted Santiago as well.


    Then Roman looked at the four year old girl. The girl scoffed and walked away from Roman.


    ... It was then that I realized that Roman had met his wife at such a young age. Although I only realized this when they started dating.


    Huh? That''s called a spoiler? Nah, it doesn''t matter. After all, this part of the story might not get written...

 RDD 78

    RDD 78


    "Roman and Sophia, I have gifts for you."


    "Yay!"


    The children were excited when they heard they were getting presents.


    Santiago took out a cardboard box from his pocket. The box has so many holes in it.


    .... Wait a damn minute.


    "Wow!"


    "Cute!"


    Sophia and the other girl squealed as they saw five chicks coming out of the box.


    "Santiago, did you carry five baby chicks all the way to Cavite?"


    "Yes, I heard that kids like baby chicks so I decided to bring some." He scratched his head sheepishly.


    "I see..."


    "Well, if they don''t like chickens, I also brought little ducklings."


    "..."


    He pulled out another box and let the ducklings get some fresh air. Suddenly, the living room became harmonious as the cries of the chickens and ducklings resounded.


    The three children watched the little birds with excitement. Of course, the little birds are adorable.


    Even Sophia giggled as she fed them with the food Santiago brought.


    I don''t know what to say, Santiago brought something unexpected.


    "Honey, you''re here."


    Penelope heard our noise. She came out of the kitchen in an apron.


    "I''m cooking a dish. How about a taste?"


    "Thank you, honey."


    "Santiago, I see you brought something for the kids. Thank you."


    "Y- Yes, Sister!"


    Penelope and Santiago were 8 years apart. I heard from my wife that she used to take care of Santiago and she always spanked him because Santiago is mischievous. He always swims in the river no matter what.


    Maybe that''s why Santiago respects his sister. A bit afraid of her.


    Maybe that''s why Penelope didn''t like Santiago living in our house. Because she knew that she was a terror.


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    Anyway, they are siblings and they love each other.


    "Sir... Can I have this duckling and this chickling?"


    Suddenly, the little girl from next door approached us and asked for the baby birds.


    "Can big sister have them? Dajjy?"


    Sophia joined in, asking me too.


    "You should ask Santiago."


    "Sophia, Roman. I gave you these baby birds and you can do whatever you want with them... But don''t kill them, at least not now, do you understand?"


    Santiago replied... .


    I think the kids had no idea regarding killing these cute birds.


    "Yes!"


    "Then it''s your choice if you want to give the birds or not."


    "Then I want to give two baby birds to big sister." Sophia said her decision.


    "I don''t want to give mine."


    Roman looked at the little girl next door and said it straight out.


    "Huh!"


    The little girl next door scoffed at Roman. Looks like these two kids are having a not so friendly interaction.


    "Charlotte, would you like to eat with us? I made burgers." Penelope joined in.


    "Thank you, Auntie."


    Ah, so her name is Charlotte.


    I nodded after hearing her name.


    Charlotte is the daughter of a pilot and a doctor. Her family is rich.


    Charlotte has a personal maid, but I can''t see her personal maid right now.


    "Nanny Bantot didn''t like taking care of me. She used to give me cookies when I''m hungry. She always uses the phone to talk to her boyfriend."


    "..."


    Did Charlotte just drop a bomb?


    Anyway, the three kids are having a good time. They played with the baby birds while Penelope prepared the burger.


    "Honey, your recipe is interesting. Where did you get it?"


    "It''s from an old recipe book in my parents'' house."


    "I see. This is my first time making a burger, so please give me your honest opinion."


    "Honey, no matter what dish you cook, it will always be delicious."


    "You and your playful tongue."


    She pinched my cheek.


    So our lunch was hamburgers.


    To be honest, I didn''t trust the recipe. It''s a simple burger recipe, and there''s nothing unique about it.


    I opened my mouth and took my first bite...


    "Delicious."


    I muttered.


    Not only me, even the kids were shocked when they tasted the food.


    Santiago and Penelope were also shocked.


    "Wow, so this is what a burger tastes like!"


    It seemed that this was the first time Santiago had eaten a burger.


    "Uncle, this burger is tastier than what we ate in the restaurants."


    Roman declared, staring at his plate.


    After we finished the whole burger, we all stared at Penelope.


    "I''m sorry, I only made one for everyone." She blushed.


    Just like her, I was shocked that a simple recipe could bring explosive flavor to my tongue.


    "Brother-in-law, you want to sell burgers with this recipe?"


    "That''s right."


    "I think you''ll be successful."


    I can see that Santiago means it.


    After lunch, the kids return to their usual scenes, playing around.


    Roman is reading a book on quantum physics, while Sophia and Charlotte are playing with the baby birds... Wait.


    "Roman, do you understand what you''re reading?"


    "I understand some of them."


    The fact that he understands some of them is amazing.


    "Santiago, since you brought these chicks and ducklings, you have the responsibility to make a cage for them." Penelope said to Santiago.


    "I understand, sister."


    "Honey, Santiago is our guest. You don''t have to tell him to make a cage-- That''s right, Santiago, I think you have to make a cage for the ducklings and chicklings. We don''t want them running around at night. I am going to buy some wood tomorrow, maybe you can come with me.


    I instinctively agreed when I saw my wife staring at me with her bright crimson eyes. I can''t refuse her when she''s like this.


    "Don''t worry, brother-in-law, I know how to make a cage for the birds."


    Santiago, we made the pens for the ducks and chickens together. Of course I know what you can do.


    In the afternoon, Charlotte returned to her home. Her pets have to stay with us for a few days while she talks to her parents.


    She is a lively girl and it looks like Sophia has made a great friend.

 RDD 79

    RDD 79


    So our night passed like that. Of course, we didn''t let Santiago spend his first night in Cavite in the shop.


    We are not that bad.


    Although when he heard that he would be living in the shop and helping me run the business, he was relieved.


    He said he didn''t want to be a burden by living in the house without doing anything.


    So he felt it was right to help me by taking care of the store at night.


    ... He''s really thoughtful, isn''t he?


    Man, I would love to invite him over for a drink. Unfortunately, I have already stopped drinking alcohol.


    "Brother-in-law, are we going to the store today?


    Santiago woke up early and he was already sweeping the floor... It''s 5 o''clock in the morning and my man is already productive.


    "Good morning Santiago. It''s good that you''re starting your day with something worthwhile."


    Penelope came out of the room after me. Since we have a guest, we postponed our fun last night and decided to sleep early.


    "Good morning sister."


    Santiago smiled.


    "Hm, let me boil some water for our coffee."


    "Um, actually I already made some. It''s in the thermos."


    "That''s good to hear."


    Penelope raised her eyebrows and went into the kitchen.


    "Santiago, you had an exhausting trip yesterday. Why did you wake up so early? You should rest more."


    "Brother-in-law, this is the usual time we wake up in the province. Don''t you remember? The roosters always cry at this time."


    "That''s true, but..."


    I sighed. I guess I don''t have to stop him if he''s used to waking up early.


    "By the way, just call me Keith. You don''t have to call me brother-in-law. It''s too formal."


    "But..."


    "Call me Keith."


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    "Okay. Thank you, Brother... I mean, Keith. Thanks for letting me stay in your house."


    "No problem, we are family. We will leave at 8 a.m. to go to the store and check out the place. Then we will order wood from the hardware store to make two cages for the chicklings and ducklings.


    Chickens and ducks have different lifestyles and don''t like each other so much. Fortunately, the house has a big garden and they can move around without any problem.


    ... Let''s just hope they don''t eat the vegetable plants Penelope planted. Or else we will eat them early.


    Now that I think about it, chicken stew and duck stew are delicious. I''m sure my wife can cook delicious meals with these birds.


    I nodded and licked my lips as I imagined how delicious they would be.


    "Here''s your coffee, honey."


    "Thanks, babe."


    I accepted my wife''s goodwill and took the coffee.


    Just like a normal Filipino family, we don''t use expensive brands of coffee.


    Nestle''s Nescafe is the most famous brand of coffee in the Philippines right now. It''s the brand we drink.


    Only 5 pesos per pack. That''s a great deal.


    Totally different from Starbucks, which will serve you a bitter coffee worth 500 pesos.


    Starbucks has to go. Fuck that company.


    "Here''s your coffee, Santiago."


    "It''s fine, sister. I already had one when I woke up."


    "... So what should I do with this coffee, throw it away? That''s wasteful, you better drink it."


    "Y- Yes."


    Santiago reluctantly took the coffee.


    Now I understand that I''m not the only one who is afraid of Penelope. Looks like she is a scary person even for her siblings.


    Roman and Sophia woke up around 7 am. They rubbed their eyes as they came out of the room.


    "Mommy, what''s for bweakfast?"


    Sophia approached Penelope and hugged her leg.


    "Baby, it''s Sunnyside eggs, corned beef and rice."


    "Okay."


    She didn''t have a strong reaction to the dish because it was our usual breakfast.


    In my opinion, it''s the best breakfast ever.


    What? Cereals like Captain Crunch, Froot Loops, and Cinnamon Toast Crunch are the best breakfast?


    Fuck off... We''re not rich enough to buy those cereals. So rice is the best.


    "Aww, baby Sophia doesn''t like rice? How about fried rice? I''ll give you milk too."


    Penelope pinched Sophia''s nose.


    "Owkay... Mommy, I like fwied rice."


    "That''s my sweet daughter."


    "Hehe."


    Looks like we all have a good appetite because we finished our meal with no leftovers.


    Afterwards, Santiago and I went to the car and drove to the store near the entrance of FCIE.


    "This is...big."


    Santiago muttered as he entered the store.


    The shop has a kitchen. Then there are four removable tables for customers to use.


    "What do you think?"


    "This is great! My room in the province is very small and I don''t have a bathroom or a kitchen. But this place has everything! It''s much better than my room in the countryside! Look, this place even has an electric fan! My room in the province is very hot and there''s no electric outlet to use!"


    Santiago was obviously happy. He really liked the place.


    "I can get you a folding bed."


    "Thank you, Brother-in-law, I mean Keith. I like this place. I can live here all I want."


    "That''s good to hear. I will start the business in three days and I will buy the ingredients for the burgers. Oh, you can use the freezer. Just don''t use too much electricity."


    "I promise."


    After visiting the store and checking each piece of equipment, we decided to go to the hardware store to buy wood for the little birds.


    My truck can easily carry the wood. We returned a few hours later. The kids were playing as usual, while Penelope was watching a telenovela...


    It''s about a poor woman who married a prince charming. That''s right, it''s the telenovela where Sophia learned the word peasant and pwathetic.


    "Oh, looks like you got here. How''s the store?"


    "It''s okay."


    "I made hamburgers for you, Sophia kept asking for hamburgers, so I decided to make them again... By the way, our beef is already gone."


    "Don''t worry honey, I''ll buy more later." I chuckled and sat down.