KABANATA 26Atasha's POVIt's been a week since I left Elias, and I admit that adjusting has been difficult. With the help of Kaeon, I was able to find a new place to stay, which is also a condominium building where he lives. While it may not be as high-quality as the de Marcel properties, I can say that it still has its own quality.It's a good thing that it's far from where Elias is, so that our paths won't cross. It's also convenient that it's close to my restaurant, and there's a possibility that I won't get stuck in traffic.I didn't go to work today as I planned to take a one-week leave to unwind. I need some space for myself, away from everyone who knows me. So I decided to book a flight to go on vacation in El Nido, Palawan.I've talked to Zylee about my upcoming leave, and I've entrusted her with the management of the restaurant while I'm away. I have great trust in her as my Chef Assistant, as she has proven herself to me several times before.After booking my flight and sec
KABANATA 27Atasha's POVWhen I arrived at the hotel where I had reserved a room, I was immediately welcomed by a hotel staff member who graciously carried my luggage. I also expressed my gratitude to the driver who had fetched me from the airport earlier before following the hotel staff inside.As I entered the hotel lobby, I was struck by its elegant design and warm ambiance. The friendly staff member escorted me to the front desk for check-in, where I was greeted with a refreshing welcome drink. After completing the formalities, the staff member guided me to my room.To my delight, the room had a stunning view of El Nido, Palawan's pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The sight of the picturesque landscape took my breath away, and I knew I was in for a truly unforgettable stay. Thanking the hotel staff for their excellent service, I settled in and eagerly anticipated the adventures that awaited me in this tropical paradise.I never expected El Nido to be this beautiful. If on
KABANATA 28Atasha's POV"Do you want to see the sky lanterns?" Celsius asked me as we made our way back to the hotel. The late afternoon sun was casting a warm glow over everything after our sightseeing tour."Is there one?""Yes, there's usually one around this time.""Sure," I replied, excitement evident in my voice. "Where is it?""Come, I will show you," replied Celsius as he led me to the beach where a large group of people were holding lit sky lanterns, and preparing to release them into the night sky. The lanterns glowed and danced in the gentle breeze, illuminating the faces of those standing around them.As the lanterns were released, they soared higher and higher, painting the night sky with their soft, warm light. The crowd gasped and cheered as they floated into the darkness, disappearing like stars into the distance.I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder and peace as I watched the lanterns drift away, their flickering lights a symbol of hope and happiness. Celsius s
KABANATA 29 Atasha's POV When I was a child, every time we attended the weddings of my mom's friends, and I saw how beautiful a bride looked in her wedding gown as she walked down the aisle towards her groom, that's when my dream was formed. I used to think that when I get married, I want it to be to only one person. The first and last man that I will love. As a young girl, I was always captivated by the magic of weddings. The way the bride glided down the aisle in her exquisite gown, radiating happiness and love, left a lasting impression on me. I would watch in awe as she exchanged vows with her groom, promising to love and cherish each other for eternity. It was in those moments that the seed of my dream was planted - to find that one special person with whom I would share a lifetime of love and happiness. I envisioned a future where I, too, would walk down the aisle in a beautiful gown, my heart overflowing with love for the man waiting for me at the end. I longed for a lov
KABANATA 30 Elias' POV "I made breakfast for you, as I have to go to work," I said seriously to Jocelle before placing the plate I prepared in front of her. Thankfully, she didn't argue and just sat down on the stool. She started eating quietly. I just observed her because it seemed like she had lost her appetite again. It had been a few days now that she seemed disinterested in food. I cleared my throat and took a sip of my coffee. "Your assistant will be arriving soon; she'll take care of you. I probably won't be coming back here for a while as I have a lot to take care of. I haven't been going to work for a few days," I said softly. She only looked at me then. "Is it really because of work, Elias?" she suddenly spoke up. "Jocelle, I can't always stay here. What about my job? My mom has been calling me," I replied. I didn't expect her to slam the spoon she was holding on the table. "Don't use work as an excuse! Are you leaving because of Atasha?" she shouted at me. "Can't
KABANATA 31Atasha's POVIt has been two days since I arrived back from El Nido, and I find myself returning to my usual routine. The memories of the beautiful beaches and breathtaking landscapes still fresh in my mind. As I step back into the familiar surroundings of my workplace, I can't help but feel a mix of excitement and anticipation. There is a sense of urgency in the air, as I realize how much work I have missed during my absence. The reports that Zylee diligently prepared have piled up, waiting for my attention. It's time to dive back into the tasks at hand and catch up on everything that needs to be done."Good morning, chef!" Masigla bati mula kay Zylee ang bumungad sa akin pagkapasok ko ng restaurant. "Kumusta po ang bakasyon niyo?" Tanong pa niya."It's fun," nakangiting tugon ko. "You know what, Zy. Let's have vacation sometimes twice a year," saad ko pa bago umupo sa swivel chair.Halatang nagtaka ito sa sinabi ko. "Wow, mukha nga pong maganda ang naging epekto sa inyo
KABANATA 32Elias' POV"She needs bed rest," the doctor told me as he looked at Jocelle. "Ms. Sadejas' pregnancy is delicate and she needs to be taken care of because the baby's grip is weak. It's fortunate that she only bled once, but we shouldn't be complacent, Mr. de Marcel," he added."What can we do to prevent this from happening again, doc?""Avoiding stress is one of the reasons," he replied. "Will you excuse me for a moment, Mr. de Marcel," the doctor said before leaving.I sighed before approaching Jocelle, who was peacefully sleeping. As I sat by her side, I couldn't help but feel a wave of concern wash over me, knowing the fragility of her pregnancy. I made a mental note to do everything in my power to ensure her well-being and the safety of the baby.As I watched her, she suddenly moved, and at the same time, her eyes fluttered open. She immediately looked at me."H-How's our baby?" she asked, clearly struggling with the question.I took her hand to reassure her that I was
SIMULAWARNING: MATURE CONTENT!Habang abala ako sa pagtatapos ng memorandum sa aking laptop, biglang bumukas ang pinto ng aking opisina dito sa restaurant. Kailangan kong maghanda para sa isang mahalagang business meeting sa susunod na linggo, kaya naman puspusan ang aking pagtatrabaho upang maipadala ito sa pamamagitan ng email."Shang, hindi ka pa ba tapos?" tanong ni Elias, na pumasok na sa loob."May lakad ba tayo?" tanong ko, hindi pa rin tumitigil sa pagtipa sa keyboard. "Hindi ko maalala na inaya mo ako sa isang date," pabiro kong dagdag.Lumapit siya sa akin at niyakap ako mula sa likuran habang nakaupo ako sa swivel chair. Naramdaman ko ang kakaibang kilabot sa aking katawan nang amuyin ni Elias ang aking batok at banayad na hinalikan ito."Tara, magpunta tayo sa isang lugar," sabi niya, ang kanyang labi ay bahagyang dumampi pa sa aking leeg, na nagpahinto sa akin sa aking ginagawa."Saan?" tanong ko, puno ng kuryosidad ang aking boses."Basta, sumama ka na lang sa akin at ma