My mouth fell open, and I instantly recalled that day she was talking about. It was the day I saw him in the restaurant when I was with Ariah.He saw me? Was that why he returned the next day?I saw how Tatiana's tough exterior seemed to crumble into pain. I could see the hurt in her eyes as if she were replaying that day in her mind.Suddenly, I felt remorseful. But her actions of spreading lies about me to get what she wanted still outweighed my sympathy."See? Looks like you still don't know everything about him. What kind of girlfriend are you?""Stop giving me that line, Tatiana. Arik made his decision that day to return to his family. It's not my fault he saw me that day.""That's why I freaking hate you to the core! I used to really want to know you! He talked about you a lot while he was with me! He always described how brave of a woman you were, and I admired you for that because I'm not that kind of woman! But after learning how much Arik loves you, even when you weren't by
"Really?" Arik's voice quivered. I gasped, trying to suppress my emotions."Why…""Because you always came back. Every time I wait, you always return even without certainty. That's what mommy taught me. That's what mommy does because she loves you so much, and I love you too," Ariah said clearly to her father.My knees began to shake. I didn't know how to react. It felt like I couldn't move from where I stood."Why, daddy? Are you going to leave us again? Where are you going then? Can mommy and I come with you?" Ariah innocently asked her father, unaware of the gravity of his words.This is about his illness. I didn't want to accept it, but a part of me felt that this was what he meant.I wanted to hate him for speaking like that, even though it might not happen, but I guess I'm the one who hasn't fully accepted the possibilities."I can't take you with me, baby. I'm sorry…" Arik muttered and leaned to kiss Ariah on her head."Don't you want to stay here? Why do you always want to lea
Her brown hair now cascades just below her ears since she left. Her beauty has become more apparent, and she seems to have gained some weight. She looks so mature now, yet still pretty.The realization struck me as I continued to stare at her. She resembles her father — our father. It's undeniable; she is a Yuchengco."Why did you let her in?" I asked Faye without taking my eyes off Isabella.She's currently seated in the living room, locked in eye contact with my daughter. Arik was unexpectedly present, watching me alongside Ariah. I didn't anticipate this, unsure of how to react.What is she doing here?"Sorry, Ma'am. She said she's your sister and has something important to tell you. I'm really sorry, Ma'am," Faye apologized, bowing before me.I sighed. This isn't the right time for unexpected visitors from the past. Damn it."It's fine, Faye. Just don't let it happen again. This is not safe," I reminded her and released her.I glanced at Isabella once more before approaching Arik
I regret not choosing you. I regret directing all my hatred for your mom towards you. You suffered because of my intense resentment towards your mom. It's because you resemble your mom so much that every time I look into your eyes, I still feel the pain. I regret letting myself be blinded by malice and greed. I loved your mom so much that I couldn't accept you immediately.My love, my sweetheart, I'm so sorry for everything. It was my fault, my Celeste. It was all my fault, and I didn't get a chance to tell you everything you need to know because your daddy is a cowardly guy. I beg for your forgiveness, my princess.Forgive me because your daddy loved another woman. Forgive me because I left you hanging. Forgive me because I took away everything from you, even your reason to live. Forgive me because I made you endure repeatedly. Forgive me because I rejected you and deprived you of a father's love. Forgive me for everything, Celeste. I'm deeply grateful to the Fuentebellas for taking
"Dad granted it, Ce, but if you ask me, I'm not comfortable with this idea of yours. Percepta is known for its high-class buildings and towers. What's with this sudden involvement with the gun industry?" His forehead creased with worry.I almost laughed at his expression, but I felt it wasn't the right time for that. He's genuinely concerned, and joking might not be well-received now. He's serious, and if I tease, he might get upset. Not that I'm afraid."Then it's a deal, right? I'll get the contract for you to sign—""Celeste, I want to know why first," Rusty interrupted with a cold tone.My mouth hung open as I saw his stern face. It seemed like the longer he stayed in my office, the harder his expression became. What's with him? I'm starting to get irritated."I told you already, Rusty. I thought it was clear to you before you accepted.""I'm still wondering why..."When Dad first presented this matter to me, I was surprised and puzzled too. As far as I know, Mom doesn't like this
My heart sank, the weight of his words pressing down on me."How much time...?" I hesitated, unable to form the question fully."It's hard to predict with certainty," he replied gently. "Each case is unique. We'll do our best to support Arik and manage his symptoms, but it's important to prepare for the challenges ahead."As the reality settled in, I nodded, my eyes fixed on Arik's still form. The room felt smaller, the future uncertain, and the fragility of memories became painfully apparent.The doctor's words hung heavy in the air, a suffocating truth that wrapped around my heart. I felt a lump forming in my throat, and an ache spread through my chest.The room seemed to close in, and I struggled to maintain composure as the doctor outlined the harsh reality of Arik's condition."I'm so sorry, Celeste," he said, his voice a distant echo as he explained the limited options and the inevitable fading of Arik's memories.As he abruptly left the room, I was left alone with the weight of
Aurora grinned, "Great! Now, how about the music? A live band or a DJ?"I pondered for a moment, then replied, "Maybe a live band for a touch of elegance. What do you both think?"Kim nodded, "Perfect choice. And what about the color scheme? Any specific hues you're leaning towards?"I automatically paused in responding to Kim when my gaze once again shifted to Arik. His distant look hinted at profound thoughts. Slowly, my smile faded as realization struck me.Oh, right..."Why? Are you okay?" Aurora nudged me."Our wedding will be postponed. I forgot to mention it to you," my response lacked conviction as I turned to both of them. I could see the surprise etched on their faces."What? Why?" Kim asked, confusion evident."As if you didn't know. We can't push our wedding through because of his condition. Maybe later..." I trailed off and sighed. Or maybe not at all..."But what if he agrees, right? He agreed to live here with you. If you can talk to him about it and..."I didn't let Au
"Oh. So you want to go horse riding again? Is that it?" I inquired again, but still received no answer.Should I continue this? Should I keep asking even if I'm not getting any answers? Because as I persist, it feels like my strength to pretend in front of him is slowly fading. Why does this have to happen?As Arik's condition prolongs and worsens, the number of questions in my mind that seem to go unanswered grows. Until now, I haven't grasped anything.We fought so hard to reach this level. We fought together. We came from war. I almost died multiple times, and so did he. We always used to win. We always used to overcome all the problems thrown at us, but why is it so difficult when it comes to this?"Arik..." I called out as he suddenly stopped walking.We're in the middle of the farm. The barn, where the horses are kept, is still far from us. I glanced at it and saw Daddy with his favorite horse, Abbadon, alongside Mom. I smiled bitterly."Do you want to stay here? It's okay since