《Planned Baby》


 Prologue

    Prologue


    shing lights, loud music, and arge crowd. In the middle, you will see dancing bodies tangled


    together. You will also see people kissing and making out on the dance floor and on the tables.


    A typical scenario in a bar.


    I usually went here for social events and gatherings. I have my mini bar in my penthouse, so I don''t


    need to go here.


    But tonight is an exemption. I am here with a mission.


    I visited an OB to have myself checked. And as per her, based on my period calendar, tonight is a


    high chance for me to get pregnant, and I don''t want to miss it.


    I never had a boyfriend. I''m too focused on my career, and I had no time for love. Also, most of the


    guys were intimidated by my achievements.


    I''m an orphan. My parents died when I was 20 years old. I lost them on my graduation day. I


    graduated summa cumude. I was about to have my speech when I received a call; it was from


    the hospital. My parents are on the way here when they met an ident. They were dead on


    arrival.


    At a very young age, I had to handle Cabello International Corporation, my parents''pany. I''m an


    Engineer and an Architect. I love doing designs, but I also knew that I had to study engineering to


    be an effective leader.


    I think finding the right guy for me will nevere. All guys love their egos so much that they can''t


    handle a woman like me.


    But with all my sess, being on the list of sessful young entrepreneurs, I still feel empty.


    I miss my family. I''m living alone for six years now. I want to have a family of my own. But how?


    I was in a bookstore buying books when I saw some novel books. Most of the stories were about a


    girl who got pregnant because of a one-night stand. Then an idea popped into my head.


    I will get pregnant, and I will do that through a one-night stand. In that way, I will have a family. I


    don''t need to look for a suitable partner, and a child will do. And it seems like I will never find the


    right guy for me.


    I visited my OB asking about the date when I have a high chance of getting pregnant. She was a bit


    shocked by my question, but I just shrugged. I don''t care about what people will think about my


    n. Based on my period calendar, today is my lucky day.


    Now that I''m in this club, I need to find a guy who could get me pregnant.


    Some guys went up to me and flirt, but I immediately rejected them after scanning them. They are


    cute but not my type.


    An hour had passed, and I haven''t found a guy yet. I need to find a guy! I don''t know what type of


    guy I am looking for. I want to trust my instinct.


    Another hour had passed, and I''m getting impatient here. Maybe I should dance?


    I decided to go to the dance floor, trying to find a guy I can flirt with and be the father of my child.


    I dance with some guys but just like with the other guys I met a while ago, they are not my type.


    I am hopeless. I said to myself.


    I was about to give up when I felt someone touching my waist. He pulled me closer to him.


    I haven''t seen his face, but I kind of like his smell. He keeps on caressing my waist while dancing.


    I feel so hot! Maybe he''s the one!


    I need to turn around to look at his face. I hope his looks are good enough to be the father of my


    child.


    Slowly I turn to face him. My eyes widen when I saw the face of the guy dancing with me.


    I smirked. He''s the one! I need to get him tonight.


    Handsome is an understatement for how good-looking he is. He clenched his jaw while looking


    darkly at me.


    He''s so manly and mature. Messy hair, deep brown eyes, thick eyebrow, pointed nose, inviting lips,


    and well-defined jawline.


    I dance with him sexily, biting my lips though I like to bite his lips more.


    He pulled me closer to him. I put my hands on his neck, pulling his face to meet mine. Our lips are


    just an inch away from each other. He groaned and captured my lips.


    "Your ce or mine?" He whispered.


    I got you!


    "Hotel," I answered.


    I saw him smirking. He captured my lips before he held me out of the club.


    He kissed me when we reached our hotel room¡ªa gentle kiss but with so much passion.


    His lips went on to my neck, his hands starting to unzip my dress and unsp my bra giving him a


    full view of my body.


    I never felt ashamed. I am always confident about my body. I know that I have a good and sexy


    body, good enough to give him a hard-on.


    "Beautiful." He whispered, and then he gave me another hot kiss.


    I moaned when I felt his hand on the peak of my breast¡ªfeeling hotter by all his touch.


    Hey me down in bed and started to take his clothes off.


    "What''s your name, baby?" He asked.


    I smirked. "You don''t need to know. This is just a one-night stand."


    His jaw clenched and brow furrowed. "If that''s what you want."


    He is now naked in front of me. I saw his thing. I swallowed hard.


    It''s too big! Will I still be alive after this?!


    "Scared?"


    I raised my eyebrow. "O-of course not!"


    I almost close my eyes because of my stuttering. Do I look scared? Oh, no! He might run away!


    I heard him chuckle. "Is this your first time?"


    I felt nervous about his question. Will he stop if he knew that it was my first time? I won''t allow it!


    "So what?" I said coolly.


    He got shocked. I got panic. No! No! He can''t back out!


    "Scared? No worries, I will not cling to you. You''ll never see me after this."


    I said to assure him. Oh, no, please don''t back out.


    He chuckled. "Who said I''m scared? It''s my pleasure being your first, and I''ll make it memorable."


    Then he winked.


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    I sexily smiled at him. Good.


    "Are we just going to talk?"


    Heughed. "Getting impatient, are we?"


    I just rolled my eyes.


    I saw him getting something, and it was a condom!


    "You don''t need to put that. I''m safe. Plus, since it''s my first time, I want to feel yours uncovered."


    Trying my best to sound sensual.


    I hope it works.


    He smirked. "If my baby says so."


    ***


    nned Baby


    Copyright ? Annehyeong, 2020


    All rights reserved.


    Author''s Note:


    This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, ces, and incidents either are products of the author''s


    imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemnce to actual events or locales or persons, living or


    dead, is entirely coincidental.

 Chapter 2 Unexpected Encounter

    Chapter 2 Unexpected Encounter


    I can''t contain the happiness that I am feeling right now. I have two children in my womb.


    Thank you, Lord!


    After my check-up, I first went to a drug store to buy my doctor-prescribed vitamins and milk.


    I also called my secretary to put my check-ups on my schedule.


    "Wait! What do you mean by schedule on your OB? Who is pregnant?" My secretary Luna asked, a


    bit confused.


    Luna is not only my trusted secretary but also my best friend. I never had a close friend when I was


    in school. I was so focused on my studies and family that I had no time to make friends.


    And I am not regretting anything because I know that in the short time that I had spent my time with


    my parents, I knew that I was able to make the most of it.


    I first met Luna a year after I took over thepany. I was so serious with my work. I never had


    time for myself.


    I''m also very strict when ites to my employee. The reason why most of my employees are


    scared of me but Luna is different.


    Even if I keep on shouting at her, it seems like it does not affect her. She is the only secretary that


    stays with me. She eventually became my most trusted person, and we became friends.


    She often invited me to go out, and she also taught me how to have fun. However, I''m not really into


    parties, unlike her.


    "I''m pregnant," I answered her.


    "What?! How did that happen, Ellie?!" She asked curiously.


    I never told her about my n because I''m sure that she will not agree to it.


    "I''ll exin it to you in the office. Bye." I said, then I ended the call.


    I looked at my watch.


    It''s almost dinner time already. I don''t want to cook now. I have maids, but they all stay out. I prefer


    to live alone. I''m sure that this time, my maids were already done with their work.


    I often eat outside, that is why they don''t bother to cook my meal. They are already done with their


    work at two in the afternoon.


    I park my car in a mall near my condo.


    I was walking to a restaurant when I passed a boutique for babies.


    I smiled and held my belly.


    My babies. If I were to choose, I would like my twins to be a boy and a girl. My son will protect our


    princess. I never had a sibling, and I always wish to have an older brother.


    "You want to go shopping, babies?" I whispered to them.


    I was very excited as I went inside the boutique. I was fascinated by the ce. I wanted to buy all


    the things that they have in this store.


    I like the dress and other pink stuff for babies. I also like outfits for male babies.


    It made me more hopeful about the gender of my twins.


    "How many months is the baby?" A salesdy asked me.


    "It''s still in my womb," I told her.


    "Do you already know the gender, Ma''am?" She asked me again.


    I shook my head. "I''m only six weeks pregnant."


    She smiled at me and nodded. "It will be better to buy in white clothes for your baby for now. You


    can use it regardless of gender."


    I nodded in agreement. "You have a point. I will do that, but I''ll roam around you don''t need to follow


    me. I''ll call you if I need you."


    She smiled and went to the counter. She took a paper and went back to me to give me the paper


    that she took.


    "Here, ma''am. This list will guide you in the things that you should buy for your baby." She said in a


    respectful tone.


    I smiled at her and nodded. I look at the paper she gave me; it''s a checklist for pregnant parents.


    Newborn basics, nursery linen, bathing and grooming essories, feeding and nursing essentials,


    nursery furnishings, and travel. The checklist is very detailed. It will surely help me as a new parent.


    I put the checklist in my bag and started to look at the items in the store.


    I chose some sleeveless shirts and short sleeve shirts, and it was based on the things I remember


    from the list. I took six pairs; for now, I am nning to repurchase them when I already know the


    gender of my twins.


    I was engrossed in choosing clothes for my babies when I heard someone talk behind me.


    "I didn''t expect that I will see you again. Especially in this kind of ce."


    His voice is familiar. My eyes widen. Don''t tell me?!


    I confirmed my assumption when he went in front of me.


    What is this guy doing here?!


    I was about to say something when I saw a girl hug his right arm.


    My brow raised. Is she his girlfriend? What an unfaithful guy!


    He already had a girlfriend, and yet she still makes a one-night stand?! Well, it''s a trend here now,


    so I shouldn''t be surprised, but I can''t help myself to be a bit pissed at him because the father of my


    child is a cheater!


    Cheater is what I hated the most.


    I ignore him and continue to get some clothes.


    "Ignoring me?"


    I just rolled my eyes. He is so thick-faced! He flirts with me in front of his girlfriend.


    "Hey!" He grabs my arm when he saw me leaving him.


    "Get your hands off me! Do I know you?" I told him, a bit irritated.


    I saw his eyes widen, and he looked shocked.


    "Are you serious? You don''t remember me?" He said in disbelief.


    "Really?"


    He went closer to me, too close that his face will almost touch my face.


    The girl beside him seems confused. Confused or stupid? Your boyfriend is flirting with me, but you


    did nothing but stare at us.


    "Do I need to remember you?"


    I saw him smirking.


    "I''m your first." He whispered.


    I rolled my eyes. "So? I didn''t expect you to be that melodramatic."


    "Oh, don''t worry. I''m not. Just kind of a shock because most of the girls are like that."


    "Well, I''m not one of the ¡®most¡¯ girls you are referring to," I answered him.


    He took a step back and shook his head.


    "Wait. I''m so confused. Big brother, what is happening?" The girl finally asked.


    My forehead creased.


    Big brother? So this girl is not his girlfriend?


    I look at the girl again. She is beautiful, and they resemble each other. Are they siblings?


    "We shared something special. I thought we were close, but it looks like she doesn''t remember me."


    He exined.


    Something special? Well, my babies are special, so I will agree.


    "Oh, I see. But is that true? Don''t you remember my brother? That''s new!" I can see the amazement


    and disbelief in her eyes.


    "If you''ll excuse me. I need to pay for this." I just said and showed them the things in my hand.


    "Who are those for? Don''t tell me¡ª I thought you''re safe?" His eyes widened.


    I rolled my eyes. "Try to raise your voice more so that others could hear you!" Note the sarcasm.


    "A-are you-"


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    I cut him off. "Don''t be overacting, okay?! Also, if ever I am pregnant, did I look for you? I did not,


    right?!"


    "I''m not overacting, okay?! Of course, if you are pregnant, I should know it because I''m the father of


    your child!" He said in a serious tone.


    "For what? For you to use me that I n all this to get you?! No, thank you! I can raise my child."


    Also, I don''t have any ns to tell you. I want to add, but I chose not to.


    "I don''t care if you can raise our child or not. I am still the father, so I have the right to that child!" He


    said in a menacing voice.


    I went closer to him. His face looks so serious.


    "Why? Did you take responsibility for all the girls you had sex with and got pregnant with?" I asked


    in a whisper.


    "I always make sure to have safe sex except to you because you don''t want to. So if ever I have


    someone I should take responsibility with, it will only be you." He said, then smirked.


    I suddenly felt irritated.


    "Whatever. I am not pregnant, so will you stop pushing this issue?! I told you that I am safe that


    night. So can I now go to the counter to pay for these things?!" I said after our argument.


    I don''t have any ns to admit anything to him. I don''t want to share my children with him.


    He stared at me for a long time before slowly nodding.


    I rolled my eyes at him and went to the counter.

 Chapter 3 LHI

    Chapter 3 LHI


    "You better tell me what the hell happen? How did you get pregnant? You don¡¯t even have a


    boyfriend!¡± Luna asked me, almost hysterical.


    I just rolled my eyes. "Simple. I had a one-night stand."


    "What?! Y-you had w-what?!" Her eyes widen from what I said.


    I giggle upon seeing her reaction.


    ¡°Stop giggling, Penelope Quinn, it¡¯s not funny! How did you have a one-night stand when you don¡¯t


    even go to a bar alone because you are allergic to people?!¡±


    My head hurts from all Luna¡¯s rants. I don¡¯t think she will stop interrogating me until I tell her


    everything.


    "I nned this pregnancy, okay?! You know that for six years I''ve been living alone. I miss my


    family. I want my family back, but I know that¡¯s impossible to happen! I want to have a family of my


    own but with my attitude and achievements, do you think I will find a guy who is perfect for me?¡± I


    said frustratedly.


    Her face became serious, and she sat on the chair across mine. He held my right hand and gently


    pressed it.


    "Of course! You''re a great woman Ellie! Someday you''ll meet your perfect match."


    "But I want it now," I said almost in a whisper.


    "Ellie..."


    I smiled at her while tears are forming in my eyes.


    "Luna, I feel so empty. What will I do will all of these ¡ª mypany, money, achievements if I don¡¯t


    have someone to offer or dedicate all these?! My parents are gone! I have nothing but myself. I


    badly wanted a family. That''s why I came up with this crazy idea. And I never regretted it because


    right now, I have my babies with me. In a few months, I''ll be able to see and hold them."


    Her forehead creased. "B-babies?"


    I nodded. "As per my OB, I have a twin!"


    Her eyes widen, and she went to me to give me a warm and tight hug.


    "Omg! I''m so happy for you. I will help you with your babies. And never think that you''re alone


    because you have me, okay? I will always be here for you."


    I was not able to hold my tears anymore. Damn hormones for making me this emotional!


    "Thank you."


    Due to my condition, Luna decided to lessen my meetings for theing weeks or maybe months


    until I gave birth to my twin.


    Yes. She was the one who made the decision, and as per her, I don¡¯t have any right to contradict


    her because all of these are for her godchildren.


    I just shook my head.


    I was almost done with my work when Luna entered my office.


    "Ellie, I talked to the secretary of Laertes Hotels International. The only avable schedule for the


    meeting with their CEO is next Friday, at 10 am. I already agreed on the given schedule because I


    know how hard it is to set a meeting with them.¡±


    I agree with her. "Sure, no problem."


    LHI is a major ount. They have more than 300 hotels and resorts in 35 countries. They only


    have a few hotels here in the Philippines. I heard that most of their hotels are in Europe, so their


    main office was located in Spain.


    Mr. Laertes Escarrer IV is the Chairman of LHI. He is based in Spain. From what I heard, his son


    Kade Ulysses Escarrer is the CEO of LHI and handling their business here in Asia. Luckily, their


    office is here in the Philippines.


    I never had a chance to have a business with them. As I have said, they own only a few hotels here


    in the Philippines. And the time that they are expanding their business here in the Philippines, I was


    still studying.


    Most of their expansion now is in other countries. They have here in the Philippines were


    renovations of their existing hotels. We never had a chance to work with them, even in the


    renovation, because from what I heard, they prefer to work with the samepany who built their


    hotels regarding the renovation.


    And I''ve heard that after ten years they will have a new project here in the country. But instead of


    the hotel, they are nning to bring here Laertes Resorts.


    Many were excited upon hearing this news. It¡¯s not surprising, though, because Laertes Resorts are


    known in other countries. It is a big deal here in the Philippines.


    The world of architecture and engineering here in the Philippines is all going crazy to get this


    ount, and mypany is one of those.


    It¡¯s such an achievement to have Laertes Resorts in our portfolio. After we get this project, it will be


    our stepping stone to getting projects outside the country.


    I gently touch my belly. My belly now has a small bump.


    ¡°We will get this ount. You guys are my lucky charms.¡± I whispered to my twin.


    I was so busy the following day in preparation for my meeting with Mr. Escarrer.


    I gather my team for a kickoff meeting. We need to make a good impression with LHI.


    "It''s almost 9 am. Are you ready?" Luna asked on my inte.


    "Yes. Call the driver, and I''ll be out in a bit."


    "Copy. Thanks."


    I heaved a heavy sigh


    "This is it! Wish me luck, my babies."


    I saw Luna¡¯s waiting for me as I went out of my office.


    "Let''s go," I told her.


    She just nodded at me and went out with me.


    My office is near the LHI hotel, but because of the traffic, our supposed 10-minute drive became 45


    minutes.


    As expected LHI hotel is grand. The quality canpete internationally. It has the same vibe as


    their hotel in Berlin.


    I just carefully evaluate the interior of the hotel as we went to Mr. Escarrer¡¯s Office.


    I have already gone to some of their hotels, and I always wanted to do a project with them.


    Their hotels and resorts were beautiful and unique, the reason why I wanted to work with them. As


    an Architect and Engineer, you treat Laertes Hotels and Resorts as a masterpiece.


    We reached the CEO¡¯s office, and a handsome guy weed us. He looks like in histe 20¡¯s and


    is very Filipino-looking, so I¡¯m sure he is not Mr. Escarrer because from what I heard, he has


    Spanish blood.


    "Cabello International Corporation? I''m Jace Nu?ez, Mr. Escarrer''s secretary." He introduced


    himself.


    "I''m Penelope Quinn Cabello, CEO and President of CIC," I said, introducing myself.


    "I''m Luna Bianca Nielis. I was the one who talked to you on the phone. I''m Ms. Cabello''s secretary."


    Luna formally introduced herself.


    He nodded, and then he opened the door. He signals us to go in first.


    As expected, their CEO¡¯s office is bigger than mine. The office has a minimalist design; ck and


    brown are the theme of this office. It¡¯s very manly.


    My eyes suddenly widen when Mr. Escarrer lifts his face.


    This is not happening! I suddenly want to forget that I wanted this project. Of all people, why him?!


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    He was equally shocked as I am, but he immediately recovered from the shock.


    I saw him smirk. He stood up and went to us.


    "Ms. Penelope Quinn Cabello."


    I just gave him a forced smile. "Mr. Escarrer."


    I could feel Luna slightly pushing me. She could feel that there is something wrong between this guy


    and me.


    "You are here for the Laertes Resorts project?" His voice turned to a formal tone.


    Yes, but I wanted to change my mind and back out from this project. I whispered to myself.


    "Yes," I said instead.


    I lost my excitement to talk to him.


    My twins! Why have we always had this interaction with your dad?! We don¡¯t need to tell him about


    your existence.


    I can¡¯t stop myself from panicking. What if we got this project? We will surely see each other often,


    which means that there is a strong possibility that he will know about my twins!


    I need to give up this project.


    This is not a good idea.

 Chapter 4 LHI RESORT

    Chapter 4 LHI RESORT


    The truth is, I wanted now to back out from this project but I know I can¡¯t. First of all, LHI was not a


    simple client. Second, I knew what Luna had gone through just to get this meeting. Third, I don¡¯t


    want to give them a wrong impression about mypany, CIC. Andstly, this project has nothing


    to do with what happened between me and their CEO.


    I shook my head. My twins were very good at choosing their father.


    Jace guided us to a conference type of room. We went straight to the door behind the office table. I


    already noticed this door a while ago. I thought it was a room specially prepared for their CEO, in


    case he will bring girls and have sex with them. He looks naughty and has many hookups. I really


    thought that having a one-night stand was already his hobby.


    I was really shocked when I saw the room behind his office table. As I said, it was a conference type


    of room. It has a long table, seven office chairs, and a 70¡± t screen TV for presentation. I also


    notice that on the left side of the room, the ss wall was a frosted type that you can use as a


    whiteboard.


    I was so amazed by this idea! It really maximizes the space of the office. I think I can also do this in


    my office with some twist of course. I feel so excited about my office''s sudden makeover.


    LHI was truly an amazing one, from the looks of their hotel to their offices, I was very speechless


    about how they work. The impression that I got about them made me more eager to get this project.


    I am worried though, that if we got this deal, it mayplicate things in my personal life.


    Though I was a bit worried about this project, I was still able to present well to them.


    We don¡¯t have yet the design for them because LHI has yet to give details for this project. All we


    know was that they were now nning to open up a resort here in the Philippines. They did not


    release any more details about the project. We don¡¯t have any idea where they are nning to put


    up the resort.


    What I present to them were things about mypany, and sample works of ourpany that


    were rted to hotels and resorts.


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    I actually have a design idea for this project. LHI has been one of my dream clients to have, I did


    some research about them long ago which is why I have an idea on the core or signature design of


    LHI. Despite that, it will be very hard for me to present something when I had no idea about the


    project or even just the size of the location of the resort.


    In all fairness, he seems serious while listening to my presentation. There''s no hint of any funny


    business.


    Our discussion regarding this project was serious and professional. And with the flow of our


    discussion, there''s a high chance for us to get this project. I¡¯m not even sure if I wanted to win this.


    "I think we''ve heard enough. You have a high chance of getting this project. But I can''t still


    guarantee that because I still have fewpanies to meet." He said in a formal tone.


    I am not really used to his formal tone and business aura. This side of him was very far from his


    yfulness and naughtiness when I met him in the bar and mall. I really find him not bad to be the


    father of my twins.


    "We understand Mr. Escarrer. I guess we just have to wait for your decision. It will be a great honor


    to have this project with us." I said to end this meeting.


    When the meeting ended, we both offer a handshake. When I offer a handshake to Mr. Escarrer, he


    held my hand more tightly.


    My forehead furrowed. Then I saw him smirk, His face went closer to mine.


    "I''m d that you are this good. I think it¡®s fate that keeps on binding us. Don''t you think?" He


    whispered.


    "So you mean we''ll get this project?" I asked him in a whisper.


    "There''s a high chance." He told me with the same low voice.


    "Well, I hope not," I said.


    He barely moved away. "What do you mean?"


    It¡¯s my turn to go closer to his face to whisper.


    "To prove to you that it was not fate but just a mere coincidence."


    I removed my hand from his.


    "Bye Mr. Escarrer," I said then smirked.

 Chapter 5 - SUSPICION

    Chapter 5 - SUSPICION


    I felt Luna¡¯s soft punch on my shoulder when we went inside the car.


    ¡°Care to exin what happens after our meeting? What is with you and Mr. Escarrer? Do you guys


    know each other?¡± Luna asked me.


    It was very obvious that she was very curious about me and Mr. Escarrer.


    I actually asked myself if I will tell her the truth or not. As much as possible I wanted to keep this a


    secret.


    "I don''t want this project anymore!" I said instead of answering her.


    Her eyes widen and I got a soft punch again from her.


    ¡°What are you saying?! Are you crazy?! You waited for this project with LHI for so long and now you


    are saying that?!¡± She said in disbelief.


    ¡°Yes I wanted it before but now I am not sure.¡± I softly whispered but enough for her to hear.


    She raised her right eyebrow. ¡°Is this because of Mr. Escarrer? You wanted to miss this kind of


    opportunity because of him. Tell me the truth, what is with you and Mr. Escarrer?¡±


    I just avoided her gaze and remain silent.


    ¡°You really avoiding answering my question. You know that it made me more curious to know what


    is with you and him.¡±


    Then her eyes suddenly widen. ¡°Wait, Ellie! OMG! Don¡¯t tell me he was the guy?!¡± She started to


    get hysterical again.


    She was still trying to absorb the idea that came to her. She can¡¯t still get over it.


    ¡°He was so hot girl! OMG! You are so lucky! Did you know how hard I stop myself from drooling


    because of his handsomeness?! Then I will find out that he was the father of your twins! You are the


    luckiest girl!¡±


    I am not sure anymore if she was still talking to me or herself because I can¡¯t butt in.


    ¡°Girl, don¡¯t you have any reaction?¡± She suddenly asked after her long dialogue.


    I just rolled my eyes. ¡°Of course he was handsome! Do you think that I will choose an ugly guy and


    give him my v card?! It¡¯s already given that one of my qualifications on that night was his looks. It''s


    my child that we are talking about here! My twin has to have good genes both from me and their


    father.¡± I exined to her.


    ¡°Wow! I can¡¯t get over your cockiness girl! But still, you are so lucky! You don¡¯t really want to tell him


    about your twins? It¡¯s your chance to get him!¡±


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    I was stunned by what she said. I can¡¯t believe what I am hearing from her. Is this really my friend?


    ¡°Luna I think you are forgetting something, I am Penelope Quinn Cabello, I never chased nor


    seduced any guy?!¡± I said a bit irritated.


    She just rolled her eyes at me. ¡°Oh well you never chased a guy but you got yourself pregnant.¡±


    My eyes widen. ¡°You and your mouth!¡±


    She really doesn¡¯t know when to stop when she was overwhelmed with something. She forgot for a


    moment that aside from the OB it was only me and her who knew about my pregnancy.


    "Sorry I was carried away."


    I just shook my head.


    Today is Sunday and I don¡¯t have work, I was just in my penthouse.


    If I were to ask I would like to spend my whole day here in the house and sleep more, but my twins


    look like they don¡¯t like the idea of just staying home.


    I was craving something. I just can¡¯t say what is it. I decided to just go to the mall and do some food


    hunting.


    I have already gone to all my favorite restaurants but still, I can¡¯t find exactly what I want to eat.


    It was almost 2 pm. Twins, what do you want us to eat? It was already past lunch.


    While I was walking, I saw a Korean-Japanese buffet. This was the new trend for the millennials


    here today. Samgyupsal is what they call it. But this restaurant was also offering Japanese food.


    I can''t believe it! For just P550 you''ll be able to eat as much Korean and Japanese food as you


    want. But since I don''t have someone to eat with me, I need to pay for two-person.


    Fair enough. The cheapest buffet that I went to was worth P1400, the rest were P2,800 to P5,000.


    It''s a good thing lunchtime was almost over so I don''t need to wait. I heard that in this kind of buffet


    the line was crazily long.


    I ordered all the food on the menu. Since it was a buffet, I can taste all of it.


    My table looks like a feast with all the food. I can''t wait to eat.


    I was already enjoying my food when someone when at my table.


    "Can you eat all that?" The man said.


    I was pissed when I looked at the person who said that.


    "It''s none of your business. Kindly leave me alone!" I hissed.


    Instead of following my words, he says down across my chair.


    ¡°I am just concerned about you okay? You might get a stomachache from eating all these foods.¡±


    He said.


    "Thanks for the concern but I can manage," I told him.


    "Do you still think that it¡®s all coincidence?" He then asked.


    I rolled my eyes. I just wanted to eat, but why is this guy going here and starting talking nonsense.


    "Can you just let me eat?" I said almost in tears because I just wanted to eat in peace and I am


    getting frustrated thanks to him.


    I saw concern in his eyes. Oh,e on!


    "Fine fine. But I will not let you eat all this. You were so slim, where will all this food go if you will eat


    all these?¡±


    ¡°You can just tell me that you wanted to eat free food you don¡¯t need to tell me that nonsense,¡± I


    said in an irritated voice.


    "What? I can pay for this. You haven¡¯t pay this food right?"


    "Whatever?! Can I eat now?" I hissed.


    I really wanted to just eat but I can¡¯t do that because of this guy in front of me.


    Twins why is your father like this?! He is getting on my nerves!


    "Fine. Let''s eat."


    I smiled because finally, I can eat. I tasted all the food that was on the table.


    I was enjoying my food when this guy started to talk again and this time he made me feel nervous.


    "You are gaining weight. With your moods and the way you eat, I would really think that you''re


    pregnant with my child."

 Chapter 6 BOND

    Chapter 6 BOND


    I rolled my eyes to make him think that I am not affected by what he said.


    "Can you stop with your absurd idea?! If you want a baby, then go and find someone else to carry


    your child.¡± I hissed.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to have a child yet okay? But if it happened then I don¡¯t have a choice but to ept the


    responsibility. And also, I just said that because from your action right now, you look like a pregnant


    woman.¡±   He said in defense.


    ¡°It may also be because I was so stressed,¡± I said trying to defend myself and stop him from


    thinking that I might be pregnant.


    His forehead creased. "Are you stressed because of the LHI project?" He asked a bit worried.


    "Well... it is one of the reasons. LHI is a big project, and everyone in the industry wants to get that


    project. Also, I always wanted to have a project with LHI.¡± Yes! He believed in my excuse.


    He became silent and seriously stared at me.


    I became nervous again. I thought he already bought my excuse but why did he be so serious


    all of a sudden. Did he still think that I was pregnant?


    "If I give you this project will you not be stressed anymore?" He said in a serious tone.


    I was stunned. "You will give me the LHI project simply because I¡¯m stressed?¡±


    "Why not? I mean I''m satisfied with your presentation. So far yourpany has the highest chance


    of getting the project. We still have 2 morepanies to meet but I''m nning to decline the


    meeting and go with yourpany."


    I felt irritated with what he said. ¡°You will not do that! Yes, I wanted to get the LHI project but I


    wanted to get the project solely because we deserve I and not just because you don¡¯t want me to be


    stressed.¡±


    ¡°Who told you that yourpany does not deserve to get this project?! Are you deaf? I told you that


    so far, yourpany has the highest chance of getting picked for the project because, among all


    thepanies who presented, your presentation was the best.¡±


    ¡°I only have two morepanies to meet and I am pretty sure that you can still beat them. This


    project was eating up a lot of my time because of those meetings. I am just trying to save time and


    also at the same time, help you to minimize your stress.¡± He exined in a serious tone.


    I pouted my lips still not epting his exnation. "Still, you will not do that. Continue your meeting


    with the twopanies. Do you have any idea how difficult it was to get a scheduled meeting from


    yourpany?!¡±


    ¡°I am very sure that those twopanies had a hard time getting that scheduled meeting. You can¡¯t


    just cancel it because of these reasons. They might not be chosen but still, give them their chance


    to prove themselves for this project.¡±


    Aside from the fact that I am not yet sure if I wanted to really get this project, I can¡¯t just ignore the


    otherpanies who also work hard to be chosen for this project.


    As I said a while ago, getting a schedule with LHI was no joke. I knew that those twopanies will


    be sad and disappointed because they were deprived of their chance to prove themselves to be


    chosen for this project. I can¡¯t simply ignore that.


    I will never do something that were unjust and unfair to mypetitors. I always wanted to y fair,


    regardless if they will also y fair or not. I do not want to sell my conscience.


    I saw him smile. It made me more felt irritated with him. He was not taking me seriously.


    "I did not expect that from you, Penelope. I heard that you are verypetitive and I also notice


    that when we had our meetingst week. But I did not expect that you are also considerate of your


    competitors." He said looking so proud.


    ¡°Since we were in school, we were already trained to bepetitive, but I want to y fair. I don¡¯t


    care if other people will not y fair, I will be firm with my principles. I want my parents to be proud


    of me not just because of my achievements but also of the person I be." I said in a serious


    voice.


    I felt sad thinking about my parents. I am always like this whenever I mentioned them. I just wished


    that they are still with me, I want to hear from them that they are proud of all my achievements. I


    want to hear from them that I did a great job in taking over thepany. I gently touched my belly.


    Soon I will not be alone anymore. In a few months, I will have a family again. I will never be alone


    anymore.


    Twins we can do this okay? Be healthy for mommy. You are my life now. I am now looking forward


    to tomorrow because of you. I can¡¯t wait to see both of you.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    I feel so full because I ate so much. Even though Ulysses joined me and help me with the food, we


    were still not able to finish all the food.


    ¡®Twins we order so much but we were not able to finish all the food.¡¯ I talked to myself while


    touching my belly.


    Ullie got the bills. As per him, he will pay for our bills and he will also pay for the fine due to our


    leftovers. I did not argue with him anymore because the only thing that mattered to me is my


    cravings.


    "Let''s go? Or do you have a n to go somewhere?" He asked me.


    I shook my head. "I''m good. I will go home now."


    He nodded and apanied me to my car.


    Twins, it seems like we often bond with your dad.

 Chapter 7 LET’S TALK

    Chapter 7 LET¡¯S TALK


    A month after our meeting with LHI, Luna gave me the good news.


    We got the project!


    I can''t believe we got this project! Manypanies applied for this project, and I can¡¯t think that


    among all thepanies, we got chosen!


    I can¡¯t stop myself from thinking about the things that Ulie said to me while we were eating in the


    Korean-Japanese restaurant a few weeks ago.


    I grabbed my phone and started to call him. I need to ask him for my peace of mind.


    "Have you heard of the good news?" He said upon picking up my call.


    I want to stay positive as possible. I keep on battling with myself that we won this project fair and


    square. Even if Ulie and I didn''t happen, I''m still sure that we will get this project, that''s how good


    mypany is. But Ulie''s tone on the phone right now made me question if there is no bias in their


    decision.


    "Yes. But I want to ask something." It was evident from my voice that I¡¯m suspicious of him.


    "Let me guess? You would ask me if I declined the twopanies I was supposed to meet." He


    said.


    I nodded though I know that he can¡¯t see me doing it.


    "Yes." I honestly said.


    I heard him chuckle. "Didn''t I tell you that I would not do that because you want me to be fair?"


    "Yes, I did. So you are saying that you were able to meet the remaining twopanies?" I asked to


    confirm.


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    "Yes, I did. And even if you ask Jace, no favoritism happened. It''s LHI''s first resort here in the


    Philippines. We need to take this project seriously, so there''s no room for favoritism. Also, I asked


    you guys to send a draft design for LHI resorts.¡± He exined in a serious tone.


    His answer gave me tremendous relief, and now I can continue with my excitement and


    gratefulness because of this great news.


    I finally got one of my dreams! The LHI project. I can now imagine what will happen next to CIC. All


    the opportunities that we will be getting once we finished the project. We will finally have a solid


    portfolio to conquer the international project!


    Ourpany¡¯s vision is to dominate not just here in the Philippines but all over the world. It lives by


    its name, Cabello International Corporation.


    "Okay, thanks. I want to clear my conscience before we celebrate." I said, feeling a bit ashamed.


    "I understand. It was my fault for you to question me because I was the one who gave you the idea.


    But rest assured that you got this project because you are the best among all thepanies that


    presented." He said in a gentle and genuine voice.


    His words touched me.


    Twins, I think your dad was not bad after all.


    "Thank you for thepliment, and thank you for choosing CIC. We will not let you regret your


    decision." I said to end the call.


    After the call, I asked Luna to call the teams that will be handling the LHI project. As much as I want


    to be hands-on on this project, I can''t.


    Right now, my baby bumps are pretty visible. If I join the meeting LHI, I am very sure that Ulie will


    take notice of my baby bumps, and he will find out the truth. This time I know that I will not convince


    him that I am not pregnant with his child.


    Even if I think that he was a good guy, my decision will never change. I want my twins only for


    myself, and I will raise them alone. I will not ask him to take responsibility because I can do it by


    myself.


    I know I''m selfish, but I want to make our lives lessplicated.


    With the kind of lifestyle that Ulie has, I know that he was not ready to be a father yet. And I don''t


    want to oblige him to take responsibility because I nned this baby.


    I first informed them that I would not join them in their uing meetings with LHI. I already


    assigned someone to lead this project, but I will still be with them. They will serve as CIC¡¯s face, and


    I work internally.


    After a few weeks, I can see the curiosity in the eyes of my employee every time they saw me.


    I''m 14 weeks pregnant now. My baby bumps were now visible. I never n to exin to them my


    situation because my pregnancy has nothing to do with thepany.


    When I went inside my office, Luna went to me, and she looks distraught.


    My forehead creased.


    ¡°Luna, is there a problem?¡± I asked her.


    ¡°Yes! We have a huge problem!! Your pregnancy already leaks in the media!¡± She said worriedly.


    My eyes widen! Oh no! It can¡¯t be!


    Luna gave me her iPad to show me the articles that reveal my pregnancy.


    I clenched my fist. ¡°Do you have any idea about the source of that columnist?¡±


    She shook her head. ¡°I honestly don¡¯t have any idea who did this, but there is a strong possibility


    that their source was one of our employees.¡±


    I heaved a heavy sigh.


    I knew that I couldn¡¯t hide my pregnancy forever and people will find out, but I did not expect that it


    will reveal this soon. Why does it have to be now? We are working on a big project currently!


    My eyes widened when I thought of LHI. Oh, shoot!


    I am very sure that they already heard the news. I knew that Ulie already found out that I was


    pregnant and he was the father.


    And speaking of Ulie...


    My phone rang, and Ulie is calling.


    I swallowed hard. It made me feel nervous.


    ¡°Are you answering the phone or not?¡± Luna asked.


    I shook my head. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    "Do you think he has an idea?"


    I nodded. "Ulie is always teasing me. We coincidentally often met whenever I went out. He took


    notice of my mood swings, cravings, and my body changes.¡±


    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, you have no other choice but to answer his call and tell him the truth.¡±


    She has a point. I don¡¯t have a choice now.


    I felt so weak when I answered his call.


    "H-hello?" I said, stammering.


    "Let''s talk."

 Chapter 8 CONFIRMATION

    Chapter 8 CONFIRMATION


    I gave Ulie my penthouse address. This is the safest ce to talk. I need to be careful, especially


    now that my pregnancy is the hottest issue now. The media are eager to get some scoop.


    If the media found out about my meeting with Ulie, they will surely assume that he is the father of


    my child. Though it''s true, I want to keep it a secret for as long as I could.


    Everything is a mess. I was nning to go to the US, but because of the LHI project, that n of


    mine slipped my mind.


    My initial n was to stay in the US until I gave birth to my twins so that it will not be an issue.


    When I¡¯m done giving birth, I will go back to the Philippines and let the media assume that my twins


    are adopted, though I won¡¯t confirm or deny their assumption. I will just let them be. My n was


    perfect, but I wasn¡¯t able to execute it because of the LHI project.


    Now I''m starting to regret why did I choose Ulie. Now things got moreplicated. I should have


    just picked another guy instead of him. But can you me me? He was so hot that night.


    I heard my doorbell, and I guess he''s here already.


    When I open the door, Ulie¡¯s serious face weed me.


    I told him toe in and guide me into my living room. I gave him a coffee.


    I am feeling so nervous right now. This was not included in my n. I honestly don¡¯t know what to


    do now.


    ,


    "Now talk." He said in an authoritative tone.


    I swallowed hard. Why is he so serious?


    I went out of my sofa, trying to calm myself. I face him, and then I pointed at my belly.


    ¡°Well, you see...¡± I just said.


    He clenched his jaw then he nodded.


    "That''s mine." It wasn''t a question.


    "How can you be so sure?"


    I saw him smirk. "It¡¯s crystal clear, baby."


    "Why? Because I was a virgin at that time? How sure are you that after we did it, I did not do it with


    the other guy?" I asked him. I was still trying to make a reason to deny his assumption.


    The truth is, I gave up the thought of denying it. I asked him here to tell him the truth. But I said to


    him that to tease him. I just wanted to see his reaction.


    "I''m sure you did not. And I''m sure that you n all this. In short, you take advantage of me.¡±


    My eyes widen in disbelief. "What did you say? I take advantage of you?! Excuse me!"


    He chuckled.


    I red at him. He is making fun of me. I was nervous about nothing. He seems not serious about


    this.


    "Why didn''t you tell me?" He said in a serious tone now.


    Is he bipr?


    "Why would I? I mean, yes, you are right, I n all this. But I want to keep the child for myself."


    "Why?" He asked with pure curiosity.


    I rolled my eyes.


    "Because I only wanted a child. The husband or the father of my child is not included. That''s why I


    chose to have a one-night stand. But you keep on showing up! You messed up with my n!" Then


    I gave an exasperated sigh.


    He raised his hands. "Hey, easy there! Please don''t me me. me fate because they kept on


    bringing us together."


    "Fate your ass!" I said, then I pouted my lips.


    He shook his head, and then he went to me.


    This guy acts like we are close. He looks like he didn¡¯t take my situation seriously. He is still yful.


    "But we have a problem."


    My forehead creased. "Problem? What do you mean?"


    "I have a fianc¨¦. It was an arranged marriage." He confessed.


    I felt relieved. I considered that as good news for me. However, I was not that surprised when he


    told me that. Knowing their family status, arranged marriage is a regr thing.


    "Really?" I can¡¯t hide the joy in my voice.


    "You look happy with my news?" He hissed.


    I close my mouth and stop myself from smiling. Is it too obvious that I was so happy with his news?


    Why will I not be happy? Having a fianc¨¦ means he doesn¡¯t want to get involved with my twins


    because it might ruin his engagement. And I am more than grateful to keep his secret about my


    twins.


    ¡°Of course not. But I am willing to help you to keep this secret. I don¡¯t have any n to tell you or


    anyone that you are the father of my child. So don''t worry, you can marry her, and I''ll assure you


    she won''t know about the baby." I said, assuring him.


    He then gave a cold re.


    ¡°Who told you that I want you to keep secret about me being the father of your child?¡±


    My eyes widen. ¡°What do you mean by that?¡±


    His face went near mine.


    ¡°Do you think that I will choose other girls than my child?¡±


    I averted my gaze, and I suddenly felt ufortable.


    If he just wanted to say that, why does he need to approach me like that? In a few more inches, his


    lips will be touching mine.


    ¡°So, what¡¯s your n?¡± I asked him instead.


    He straightened himself and became serious again.


    "I will tell my parents about the baby. And I will cancel the wedding." He said.


    I was shocked by his n. "What did you say?!"


    He faced me again and went near my face. He did this thing again. He¡¯s making me ufortable.


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    "Of course, they should know about our baby. Our child will be Escarrer¡¯s first grandchild. I¡¯m very


    sure that they will understand why I wanted to cancel the wedding.¡± He said in a whisper.


    I moved back to give us some space.


    ¡°What if they want us to get married instead?¡± I asked, quite worried.


    I don¡¯t want to get married! That is not part of my n! Everything is in chaos now! Wrong choice of


    man, Ellie!


    ¡°You don¡¯t want to marry me?¡±


    ¡°Of course, I don¡¯t want to marry you! Ulie, what I wanted is a child and not a husband.¡± I said in


    panic mode.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have a choice. You take advantage of me, and you need to take responsibility for what


    you did to me.¡±


    My jaw dropped. Is he real right now? ¡°What are you saying that I take advantage of you? Are you


    insane?!¡±


    "Of course I am. It''s true! You seduce me to get you pregnant. It''s just right that you take


    responsibility for what you did!"


    "The hell Ulie are you serious?! As if that was your first time to have a one-night stand! I was the


    virgin that night and not you!¡±


    "But it was my first time to do that without protection!" He insisted


    "Still! I don''t want to marry you! I want this child for myself!" I said with finality.


    "I''m sorry, Penelope, but you can¡¯t have that child by yourself because I also have the right as the


    child''s father." He said in a serious tone.


    I felt so weak. The situation is getting worse.


    "But I don''t want to marry you," I said almost in a whisper.


    He went to me tofort me.


    "Well, it''s up to you. I''m willing to marry you for the child, but I won''t force you if you don''t want to."


    I looked at him. "What about your parents?"


    He smirks. ¡°Well, that''s your problem. You need to convince them if you don''t want to marry me. But


    I am telling you right now that you will have a hard time convincing them. They will not allow me to


    run from my responsibility with our child.¡±


    I heaved a sigh.

 Chapter 9 TWINS GENDER

    Chapter 9 TWINS GENDER


    Ulie¡¯s parents will be here in the Philippines next month. He decided to tell them about my condition


    by then.


    The idea of meeting his parents makes me nervous.


    I don¡¯t have any idea about Ulie¡¯s fiance. I don''t even know her name. I will be considered a rich


    person butpared to Ulie¡¯s wealth. I am nothing. I am not sure if his parents will ept me.


    I don''t have any n to marry their son. I think that''s enough for me not to worry about his parents. I


    should be okay whether they will like me or not because no matter what they think of me or my


    situation, I will keep my twins.


    Two weeks have passed when Ulie found out about my pregnancy.


    I mustmend him because I never expected that he would support me with my pregnancy.


    Almost every day, he''s in my penthouse to bring all my cravings. Even if it was alreadyte, once I


    call him, he will be here to get what I told him to buy. He sometimes spends the night here.


    So far, he''s tolerable. I like our arrangement: no pressure, no expectation, it''s all for our twins.


    I was back from my deep thinking when I heard my phone ring.


    "Hello?"


    ¡®I''m already in the basement.¡¯


    "Okay. I''ll be right there."


    Ulie and I will go to my OB for a check-up. Today we will finally know the twin''s gender. Speaking of


    twins, I haven''t told him that we had twins.


    When we arrive at the hospital, people keep staring at us. I don''t know if those people knew us or


    they are just curious.


    When we arrived at my OB¡¯s clinic, my OB eyes widened upon seeing Ulie.


    "Hi, I''m Kade Ulysses Escarrer. I''m the father of Penelope''s child." He introduced himself in a formal


    tone.


    I saw my OB blush as Ulie introduced himself.


    I just shook my head. Ulie¡¯s presence makes the girl giddy.


    "Dra. Martha Allejo." She also introduced herself in a formal tone.


    Dra. Allejo¡¯s assistant guides me to the ultrasound area to check my twins'' gender.


    She made us hear the twins¡¯ heartbeat again.


    Until now, this pregnancy feels surreal. It hasn¡¯t fully sunk yet that there are twins inside my tummy.


    I look at Ulie, and I saw him smiling while listening to our twins¡¯ heartbeat. It was his first time


    hearing it, and I can see myself in him when I heard it for the first time.


    "Are you ready to know the gender of your twins?"


    I saw Ulie¡¯s forehead creased. "T-twins?"


    Dr. Allejo nodded. "Yes, Mr. Escarrer, didn''t Ms. Cabello tell you that you had twins?¡±


    He then looked at me. "No. She hasn''t told me yet."


    "Sorry, I forgot to tell you that we were having twins."


    He just nodded, and he messed up my hair.


    "It''s okay, baby."


    I felt blushed and kind of ufortable by what he said.


    He''s with his flirty mode again.


    "We were ready to know our twins'' gender Dra. Allejo." Ulie said.


    The ob started to check the monitor. She moves the transducer tube to find the twins'' gender.


    Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    "Your twins¡¯ genders are a boy and a girl!"


    My eyes widen. "Really?! Wow! Thank you, Lord!"


    I can¡¯t believe it. I am so happy right now. I wanted my twins'' gender, a boy and a girl. I wanted a girl


    because I am sure that I will enjoy dressing her up like a doll. I also wanted a boy because I want


    him to inherit mypany.


    After our check-up, Ulie and I decided to have dinner first before we go home to celebrate.


    "Now that we already know the gender of our twins. We need to prepare ourselves because my


    parents will be here in two weeks." Ulie said.


    I just nodded at him. The truth is, I am not that excited to meet his parents.


    "Also, I have already canceled the wedding. So don''t be surprised if my parent''s reaction when we


    meet them will not be that good.¡± He informed me.


    I swallowed hard. I don''t need them to like me, though, because I don''t have ns on marrying their


    son.


    "Ulie, I''m just curious. May I know the girl you are supposed to marry?" I finally asked.


    I can¡¯t help myself to ask him about the girl. I am so curious about the girl Ulie¡¯s supposed to marry.


    "She''s Hadley Adelson. The only daughter of Simon and Lh Adelson. The heiress of Adelson


    Hotels."


    My eyes widen at his revtion. AGC owned more than 200 hotels in the USA. I heard that they are


    nning to expand their business in Asia, particrly here in the Philippines. They are like the


    Escarrer in America.


    Ipletely understand why his parents will be in a bad mood because their son canceled his


    wedding.


    "You look shocked." He said.


    "Of course I am! They are Adelson! They are like the Escarrer in the USA!¡±


    "So?" He reacts as it''s not a big deal.


    I can''t believe him!


    "You know you can still marry her. I mean, I will not chase you." I said, trying to convince him.


    "Toote, baby. I have already canceled the wedding. Plus, we will have our twins. I don''t want our


    children to be illegitimate. Once I marry her, our twins will be illegitimate. Do you want that?¡±


    He exined for me to understand.


    That made me shut my mouth. "I don''t want that."


    "See? Stop thinking about her. Just focus on our twins."

 Chapter 10 ULIE’S EXCUSE

    Chapter 10 ULIE¡¯S EXCUSE


    Ulie asked me toe with him to the airport to fetch his parents. Today is the scheduled arrival of


    his parents.


    I was hesitant because I want them to settle down first before we started to reveal to them about the


    twins, but Ulie keeps on insisting that I should go with him. I had no choice but to oblige.


    I chose to wear a straight-cut long sleeve dress with a busy pattern to camouge my nearly six-


    month bump. I partnered it with ck Balenciaga slingback ballerinas t shoes.


    I wanted to hide my pregnancy first from his parents. I don''t want to shock them the moment they


    saw me having a baby bump with Ulie.


    We''ve arrived at the airport. I told them I gave him a mask since my pregnancy was still hot news to


    the media.


    He shook his head, but he still follows what I want. He knew that I couldn''t be stressed.


    Momentster, I saw Ulie waving at a couple. It looks like those were his parents. Now I knew why


    this guy beside me looks this hot. His parents'' looks were exemry.


    His dad is Ulie¡¯s older version, but Ulie got his eyes from his mom. It made me more excited to see


    my twins. I don¡¯t mind if they will look like their grandparents.


    Ulie removed his face mask and greeted his parents. He then looks in my direction and asks me to


    go to them.


    I saw her mom smile warmly at me. ¡°Is she the reason why you cancel the wedding?¡±


    I swallowed hard.


    ¡°Yes, mom. She''s Penelope Quinn Cabello. I will exin to youter, but first, we need to leave this


    ce because my girl is hot in the media''s eyes.¡±


    We went straight to Escarrer¡¯s mansion. This is my first time to be here. Ulie was always the one


    who went to my ce. He never, or rather, he never had a chance to bring me here.


    Escarrer never made me disappointed. I always imagine their mansion like this. I wish that I will be


    allowed to design a mansion for them. It will be a great honor.


    Their mansion looks like a typical modern mansion at first nce, but it''s far from that. Theplex


    structure features a wrap-around water feature, and I also see an infinity pool. It also has multiple


    outdoor lounge areas and truly Luxe-style interiors.


    We went straight to one of their lounge areas. Their maid gave us refreshments. The view from here


    was breathtaking.


    ¡°Mom, dad.¡± Ulie broke the silence.


    My amazement about their mansion disappears as I started to feel nervous. Finally, this is it.


    We all look at him, waiting for his speech.


    ¡°I know it was too sudden, canceling my wedding with Hadley Adelson and now being with Ellie.¡± He


    started his speech.


    ¡°You didn''t tell us that you have a girlfriend. How long have you been together?¡± His mom asked.


    ¡°She¡¯s not my girlfriend.¡± He said.


    I nodded.


    I saw the shocked expression from them.


    ¡°What do you mean, Kade?¡± His father asked.


    ¡°Mom, Dad, I am going to be a father with Ellie¡¯s child. We will have a twin.¡± He finally said.


    ¡°You made us more confuse, Kade.¡± His mom said.


    ¡°Let me exin clearly. Ellie and I were not together. We just had a one-night stand, and she got


    pregnant.¡± He exined, more clearly now.


    I felt ashamed upon hearing it. I didn''t expect that will care about what other people think about me.


    Or maybe because these people are not just any other people. They are Ulie¡¯s parents.


    Hearing makes me look like an easy girl. I was confident a while ago, but after hearing it, I felt so


    little about myself.


    ¡°So you n to get married now?¡± His dad wants to rify.


    ¡°No, sir. I want to keep my baby, but I don''t want to marry your son.¡± I said.


    I don¡¯t want them to think that I¡¯m an easy girl or I nned all this to get their son.


    ¡°But why?¡± His mom asked.


    ¡°I nned all this. I want to have a baby. I want to have my own family. I have been living alone for


    six years since my parents left this world.¡±


    ¡°Since I don''t have a boyfriend and I don''t think that I will have one soon, I decided tomit a one-


    night stand to get myself pregnant. I didn''t know that he was Ulysses Kade Escarrer that night. I


    never expected that after our one-night stand, we would meet again and get to work together for a


    project.¡±


    ¡°My original n was to get pregnant, go to the USA until I gave birth, and return here in the


    Philippines after a year so that the media will assume that my child was adopted. But Ulie keeps on


    popping up, then the LHI project, media also found out about my pregnancy, because of that Ulie


    finally confirm my pregnancy and now here we are exining everything to you.¡± I exined to


    them.


    ¡°But why didn¡¯t you want to marry my son? Is he now willing?¡± His mom asked.


    I sighed. ¡°He said he is willing, but he is not part of the n. I only want to have a family of my own.


    I don''t want to be alone anymore. I want my life to have a purpose. I want to have someone to offer


    all my achievements and motivate me to reach my dreams.¡±


    ¡°I only need my child. I don''t need a husband.¡±


    ¡°Oh, sweetheart!¡± Ulie''s mom went to me and hugged me.


    ¡°I understand your loneliness. We respect your decision, but we still hope that you guys will get


    married not just for the sake of your baby but because you knew that fate brought you together.¡±


    I look at her mom. Something was still bothering me.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you angry with me because of the canceled wedding of Ulie?¡± I curiously asked.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    His mom gently caresses my face. ¡°No, sweety. We arranged that marriage because we want our


    son to settle down and be serious with his life. But now he has you and your baby. I''m sure that he


    will get serious with his life now.¡±


    I didn''t expect that our meeting with Ulie¡¯s parents will be doing so well.


    ***


    I''m here now to Ulie¡¯s office to present the first draft of our design for Laertes Resort.


    I was about to go inside his office when I heard him talking to someone.


    ¡°You finally got away with your wedding.¡± The man said.


    My forehead creased. What does mean by that?


    ¡°Yes! Finally! I didn''t expect that I will be thankful that I got someone pregnant. Because of her


    pregnancy, I finally got rid of Hadley Adelson.¡± Ulie said.


    What the hell?


    ¡°But didn''t she demand you to marry her?¡± the man asked.


    Ulie shook his head. ¡°No, she didn''t. As per her, I was not part of her n. She doesn''t want to


    marry me. She only wants the twins.¡±


    The manughs. ¡°You¡¯re so lucky, dude!¡±


    ¡°I know I finally got an heir. My parents will not force me to settle down now. I have Ellie and the


    twins as an excuse.¡±

 Chapter 11 TRAUMA

    Chapter 11 TRAUMA


    I don''t think it''s right to eavesdrop on their conversation.


    I decided to go back to Jace¡¯s table.


    ¡°What happened, Ms. Cabello? Why did youe back here?¡± Jace asked.


    ¡°Ulie has a visitor, and I don''t think it''s right I disturb them. Also, you guys are supposed toe


    with me to this meeting, right?¡± I said instead.


    It''s true, though. They suppose toe with me to the meeting. But these two are here busy talking


    with each other.


    I saw them blushed. I lift my right brow. Something is fishy between this two.


    I just shook my head. It''s not my concern anymore if there''s going on between them. They are both


    single.


    ¡°Sorry, Ms. Cabello. It slips my mind that Mr. Hearst is in his office now. I will inform Mr. Escarrer


    that you are already here for the meeting.¡± Jace said instead.


    ¡°No, it''s okay. We can wait; we are not in a hurry. Also, who is Mr. Hearst?¡± I asked curiously.


    ¡°Mr. Hearst is our exclusive partner. All our branches here in Asia we''re exclusively tie-up with


    Hearst Restaurant Group.¡± He exined.


    ¡°Also, Mr. Hearst is Mr. Escarrer¡¯s best friend. Well, they became close because of this partnership.¡±


    He added.


    I nodded. So they are best friends? No wonder they sounded so close. They talk casually with each


    other.


    I suddenly remember what I heard from them a while ago. For some reason, I felt disappointed with


    what I heard.


    I am disappointed to hear from Ulie that he uses my pregnancy to be free from the arranged


    marriage. Though, I understand him a bit. In today¡¯s generation, no one wanted to be in an


    arranged marriage. That is too old fashion.


    It made me think or question his affection towards me and the twins. Is he acting like that because


    he knew that my pregnancy is the answer to his problem?


    I felt pity towards my twins if my assumption is correct. I don''t care if what he is showing me is fake,


    but not with my twins.


    They will be hurt when they found out that the reason why their father is giving them his attention


    and affection is that he is using them to get rid of his problem.


    What should I do?


    I was back from reality when I heard the door of Ulie¡¯s office open.


    I think his meeting with Mr. Hearst is done.


    ¡°Ellie?¡±


    I lift my face to face him. I gave him a forced smile.


    ¡°Why are you here? I mean, why didn''t youe to my office instead of waiting here?¡± he said.


    Jace was about to answer him when I responded first.


    ¡°Jace told me that you are still in a meeting with Mr. Hearst. I told him that we could wait till you are


    done with your session. We are not in a hurry.¡±


    I don''t want him to have a hint that I heard his conversation with his friend.


    ¡°Okay, but still, you should be in my office than here.¡± He said.


    I smile at him.


    ¡°By the way, Ellie, I liked you to meet Nichs Hearst, the CEO of Hearts Restaurant Group. Nick


    this Penelope Quinn Cabello, the President and CEO of Cabello International Corporation.¡±


    Nick offers his hand for a handshake.


    ¡°Hi, Ms. Cabello, nice to finally meet you, and you can just call me Nick.¡± He said in a friendly tone.


    ¡°Nice to meet you too, Nick,¡± I said in a formal tone.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go inside my office. Nick will be joining us in a meeting. You will need his opinion about the


    restaurant area since they will be upying it.¡± Ulie said.


    I just nodded, and all of us went to his office to start the meeting.


    ***


    After that meeting, I became distant from Ulie. I don''t know. I''m just really felt disappointed with him.


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    I stop calling him whenever I crave something.


    I''m starting to think if I am making the right decision. If having Ulie in my twins¡¯ life is the right thing


    to do. But I know it''s toote to regret it now.


    There is a limitation on how long I can avoid Ulie. Just like today, I will be having my checkup, and


    Ulie will apany me.


    He fetches me from my penthouse to go to the OB together.


    We were already in his car for a while now.


    I heard him clear his throat. ¡°Ellie, do we have a problem?¡±


    My forehead creased. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    He shook his head. ¡°You are not calling me anymore. I mean, you don''t call me now to buy things


    for you or apany you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not avoiding you. I did not call you because I am done with my cravings. I''m not craving for


    anything now.¡± I lied.


    ¡°Yes, but you did not tell me about your checkup today. If Luna didn''t tell me, then I wouldn''t know.¡±


    He said


    ¡°I know. It slips my mind.¡± I lied again.


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Ulie stops the car when he saw that the light is in yellow. I always notice that whenever he drives.


    We already reached the hospital when I decided to ask him about the yellow light.


    ¡°Ulie, why are you always making a stop whenever the light turns yellow? I mean, that is a warning


    sign, yes, but you can still go.¡± I asked curiously.


    He sighed aloud. ¡°I guess I am traumatized.¡±


    My eyes widen. ¡°What do you mean? Why are traumatized? What happened?¡±


    ¡°Almost seven years ago, I had an ident. I was driving and in a hurry. I saw the yellow sign, and I


    got panic, so I increase my speed before it turned red. I was almost in the middle of the intersection


    when the light turned red. It''s difficult to stop or go back.¡±


    ¡°I didn''t notice the car. I bumped into it and got into an ident.¡±


    I gasped.


    ¡°I wasatose for three months, Ellie.¡± He said.


    I remove my seatbelt and hug him.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to hear that, Ulie.¡±


    He shook his head.


    ¡°I epted my fate, Ellie. That was my fault. But you know what I can¡¯t ept?! Is that someone


    died, because of my mistake!¡±


    Ulie started crying. I was still hugging him to console him.


    ¡°Someone died because of me, Ellie.¡±


    I don''t know what to say to him. All I know is that he is still not over with that ident. I never


    expected this side of him because he is always happy. For some reason, it touches my heart.

 Chapter 12 ALISTAIR AND AMELIA

    Chapter 12 ALISTAIR AND AMELIA


    Time passes very quickly. I''m in thest month of my pregnancy. I might see my twins anytime


    soon.


    Luna and Ka (Ulie¡¯s sister) organize a baby shower for me. I wanted to say no because I don¡¯t


    want the media to find out about the father of my babies. Though my pregnancy got exposed, we


    were able to hide from the media that Ulie is the father of my twins. But they won¡¯t budge. So I had


    no choice but to let them do whatever n they have for the baby shower.


    I know that we can¡¯t hide the twins¡¯ father forever, but as much as possible, I want to have a safe


    delivery first before I face the potential crisis that I need to deal with.


    I formally met Ulie¡¯s sister, Ka Ulyssa Escarrer, a week after I met their parents. Ulie and Ka


    were the ones in charge of their hotels in Asia. She had a meeting in Dubaist week, so she was


    not there when Ulie formally introduces me to their parents.


    When she arrived in the Philippines and heard the news about Ulie and me, she asks his parents


    and brother to invite me for dinner.


    She was the girl I met in the mall when I was buying clothes for the twins, and Ulie approaches me.


    She was shocked when she saw me at the dinner.


    shback


    ¡°I knew something is going on between you and my brother!¡± She said when she recognizes me.


    I gave her a forced smile. She still remembers it.


    ¡°Ka, did you already know Ellie?¡± Aunt Adelia (Ulie¡¯s mother) said.


    ¡°I don''t know her personally. But I already met her once in the mall. Brother Ulie approaches her,


    and at that time, she looks pissed at brother.¡± She exined and chuckled.


    Their parents look surprised by that story. I assumed that they didn¡¯t expect that someone is not


    showing interest in their son. I can¡¯t me them. Ulie is a total package and any girl would want to


    be his girl.


    ¡°At that time, I was asking her if she was pregnant because she was buying infant clothes. She


    wanted to hide it, so I guess that''s why she was pissed.¡± Ulie said and shrugged.


    I red at him. Even though what he told them is true, still he should not say that. I am feeling


    embarrassed now because of what he said.


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    I think Uncle Laertes noticed my difort. That is why he changes the topic.


    ¡°We can continue our chatter, but right now, let''s head to the dining room. The food is ready.¡± He


    said.


    ¡°Okay, dad. Let¡¯s go, sis!¡±


    Ka grabbed my hand, and we went to the dining room together.


    ¡°Hey Ka, stop harassing Ellie!¡± Ulie warns his sister.


    Ka rolled her eyes. ¡°Whatever, brother! I will steal her from you.¡±


    ¡°You wish! She''s already mine!¡± Ulie fight back.


    I just shook my head. They were acting like a kid.


    End of shback


    After that dinner, Ka is always calling me. She will always tell me how much she likes me for his


    brother. We became close because of her effort.


    She¡®s also close with Luna. She often visits me in my office, which is where she met Luna and


    be close. Sometimes I would ask her if she doesn¡¯t have any work to do because of how often


    she visits me and Luna.


    I don¡¯t have any problem with her visiting me and Luna. But I am just concerned that people might


    get an idea because of her sudden closeness with me.


    And now Ipletely understand why she keeps on going in my office. Luna and Ka are


    nning a baby shower for me which I appreciate though for me it¡¯s not needed anymore.


    Ulie and I were now in the venue for our baby shower. He fetches me at my penthouse.


    They only invited a few people- these people were the only ones who knew our situation.


    The people they invited were Ulie¡¯s parents, Nick and Jace.


    They prepared a variety of games and activities. All the guests and even Ulie and I have no choice


    but to participate in their games.


    After the fun games, we eat food, and after that, they proceed to the main event, which is their gift


    for my twins.


    They all prepared two gifts¡ªone for my baby girl and another one for my baby boy.


    I sincerely thank them for their efforts and the love that they are giving now to my twins. I am very


    sure that my twins are pleased.


    Ulie is staying at my penthouse in the meantime to assist me in my delivery.


    We were having dinner when I felt my tummy hurt. I told Ulie about it.


    ¡°Do we need to go to the hospital? Wait, let me get the things we need first.¡± Ulie said panicky.


    ¡°Okay.¡± The only thing I can utter.


    The pain I''m feeling now is no joke. I¡¯m sure that the twins wille out any minute.


    True to that, when we reach the hospital, my water broke. The nurse assisted me to the delivery


    room.


    I am grateful that Ulie was with me in times like this. I will really need his support.


    ¡°You can do it, Ellie. I am here to support you. The twins love you.¡± Ulie utters to encourage me.


    It was hard, but my only concern now is to deliver my twins safely.


    Baby boy is the first one that came out.


    ¡°Good job Alistair Kade! Good job, Ellie!¡±


    After two minutes, the baby girl came out.


    ¡°Good job Amelia Quin! You''ve done it, Ellie! I''m so proud of you!¡±


    I smiled at Ulie. I am exhausted now, but I''m happy.


    The moment I heard the baby cry, I passed out.


    ***


    ¡°Baby Amelia looks like you, Ulie, while Alistair looks like Ellie. Your twins are so beautiful.¡±


    ¡°Let me hold baby Amelia, mom.¡±


    Those were the voice I hear. I opened my eye, and I saw Ulie with his family.


    Ulie notice me, he went to me and kissed my forehead.


    ¡°How are you feeling now?¡± He asked in a gentle voice.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay. Where are the twins?¡± I asked.


    ¡°They are here. Wait, I will call the doctor first.¡± Ulie said, then he presses the button near my bed.


    ¡°Here¡¯s your twins Ellie. They are both beautiful babies. Alistair looks like you while Amelia looks


    like Ulie.¡± Aunt Adelia said.


    I smiled at them and look at my two babies.


    Indeed, they are beautiful. Thank you, Lord, for this great blessing. Finally, I am not alone anymore.

 Chapter 13 MEDIA LAUNCH

    Chapter 13 MEDIA LAUNCH


    Ulie¡¯s parents wanted us to live in Escarrer¡¯s mansion, but I decline.


    I already prepared everything for my twin''s arrival in my penthouse.


    I renovated one of the rooms in my penthouse three months ago and made it the twin¡¯s nursery


    room.


    I love in, simple, and minimalist design. I made a neutral shared nursery room with white


    furniture, open shelving, a crystal chandelier, and pink and blue linens and toys.


    I showed it to Ulie when he started to stay in my penthouse. He likes it, and we both decided to take


    care of the twins here in my penthouse.


    Ulie requested to let him stay here in my penthouse for the first three months of the twins. He


    wanted to help me to take care of the twins. He wanted to stay for a year, but I told him that three


    months is enough.


    Honestly, I can¡¯t help myself but question his sincerity towards the twins. I can¡¯t forget the


    conversation I heard from Nick and him.


    From what I heard, it only shows that Ulie is responsible not because he was sincere with my twins


    but because he saw them as his way to get out of the engagement he has with Hadley Adelson.


    Nheless, I will still give him his right to the twins as long as he will not hurt them. Also, I


    appreciate the love and care that his family is giving to my twins.


    My twins and I are already discharged from the hospital, and we can go home now.


    Ulie¡¯s family and our friends surprise upon arrival in my penthouse. They did a wee home


    Amelia and Alistair banner with balloons and prepared lunch.


    They are all excited to hold the twins. I don''t have the choice but to let them because I know after


    this small party, I can have my alone time with the twins.


    I showed them the nursery room I prepared for the twins.


    ¡°Are you the one who design this?¡± Uncle Laertes asked.


    I nodded. ¡°Yes, uncle. I wanted to keep it simple as possible.¡±


    ¡°I like your design. It''s much simplerpared to the nursery we prepared for them in the mansion.


    I like this more, to be honest.¡±


    That made my heart flutter. I am happy that he liked it.


    ¡°Thank you, uncle, for thepliment. Well appreciated.¡± I said.


    The twins were already asleep; we decided to have our lunch since they are sleeping.


    ¡°Your babies are beautiful. I can say that you guys arepatible. You got great genes.¡± Luna said


    in a teasing tone.


    I just rolled my eyes.


    Of course, we have great genes. That is one of the things I consider in choosing my twins'' father.


    ¡°Luna is right. Are you sure you guys don''t want to get married? You two look perfect!¡± Aunt Adelia


    commented.


    If you only knew Auntie. Your son doesn''t want to get married. Well, same for me. I am contented


    with my twins.


    ¡°It¡¯s not part of the n, Auntie. My twins are more than enough for me.¡± I politely answered her.


    ¡°But you can add that to your n. I mean, you have a great rtionship.¡± Auntie said, trying to


    convince me.


    ¡°We develop a great friendship. And I can¡¯t ask for more.¡± I just said.


    ¡°Mom, stop pressuring Ellie. Let''s just be thankful for having Amelia and Alistair with us.¡± Ulie butted


    in to help me.


    I mouthed ¡®thank you.¡¯ to him.


    He smiled and mouthed ¡®wee.¡¯


    ***


    LHI has approved the final design. I was working from home because I can¡¯t leave the twins alone


    with their nanny.


    It''s not because I don''t trust them. I just want to be a hands-on mom to my twins.


    I am confident with my team, especially Luna.


    Ulie, on the other hand, is working in the LHI office. Even though he also works at home, he can¡¯t.


    LHI is busier now because of the resort project, especially now that they have the approved design.


    Before we start the construction for LHI, they will first have a mediaunch for LHI Resorts. It''s part


    of their marketing n or strategy.


    I will also attend the said mediaunch since I was the President and CEO of CIC. It will be a great


    deal for mypany. I am excited about what¡¯s awaits of this project for CIC.


    The twins are with me, but we will not preset it during theunch because Escarrer wanted to have


    a separate party for them.


    They want to announce them to the public. I can¡¯t disagree with them because it is one of my


    children''s rights as part of the Escarrer family.


    ¡°I prepared the rooms for the twins,¡± Ulie said.


    I nodded at him and followed him in the elevator for VIP.


    He instructed the nannies before we said goodbye to the twins.


    ¡°Mommy and Daddy need to attend the party. We''ll pick you upter. Be a good baby girl and boy,


    okay? I love you, twins.¡± He said in a gentle voice.


    I can see the love in his eyes. And I think that is more than enough.


    ¡°Let''s go, Ellie?¡±


    I nodded and kissed my babies goodbye.


    The start event started with the usual opening remarks, production number to keep the event more


    entertaining.


    Now, they presented the design we made for the LHI resort. In the short AVP, I gave them an idea of


    what to expect in LHI Resort. They¡¯ve shown the LHI signature activities, the sceneries, the lobby,


    restaurant- it features Hearts Restaurant and rooms.


    Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    I can¡¯t help but be proud of mypany. Finally, we got to show people what we are capable of.


    I have received an award before for being a young entrepreneur, but this one is different. It''s like a


    confirmation of my capabilities as an architect.


    The next segment will be a Q&A from the press. It was going well until one of the members of the


    media asked a question about the twins.


    ¡°Is it true that Mr. Kade Ulysses Escarrer is the father of your child?¡±

 Chapter 14 DISCREDITING ELLIE

    Chapter 14 DISCREDITING ELLIE


    ¡°Is it true that Mr. Kade Ulysses Escarrer is the father of your child?¡±


    I felt Ellie stiffen. She didn''t see thating, same with me. I don''t know where did they get that


    information. We were always careful. We made sure that all people involved in Ellie¡¯s pregnancy


    until she gave birth is a secret.


    She was always in the VIP section, and all the premises in the hospital were exclusively for her


    during her delivery and even during checkups.


    We know that we can¡¯t keep it a secret forever. But we want to announce it ourselves. We even n


    to do a party to tell the twins.


    I held Ellie¡¯s hand and squeezed it to calm her.


    ¡°I think you were all brief that all questions would only be about the LHI Resorts. Were you not


    informed?¡± I answered the press in a cold voice.


    ¡°Is it true that the reason why Ms. Cabello got the project is that she seduced you and get herself


    pregnant?¡± The press asked instead.


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Ellie said.


    From the tone of her voice, I¡¯m sure that she was angry. Knowing her, she can never ept that


    kind of insult.


    ¡°What is your name and from whatpany you came from?¡± I asked in a cold voice.


    I will not let this pass. I will never allow anyone to insult Ellie.


    I saw him flinched. I think he knew what I meant. He became silent, and he just lowered her head.


    We had no choice but to end the event. Thanks to that malicious person. I will make him pay for


    what he did.


    ¡°What the heck?! Where did he get that idea?! How dare him to insult me?!¡± Ellie said when we


    reached the twins¡¯ hotel room.


    ¡°Jace, get the name of the press who asks about the twins and his malicious ims. I''m sure that


    someone is behind this incident. You need to find it out.¡± I said to Jace.


    It seems well-nned. If that press already knew about the twins, he will release it as soon as he


    got the scoop. But he waited until this event.


    The culprit is not after the twins but Ellie. I am very sure of it. And whoever that person is, I will


    surely make him pay.


    When we reached home, I hugged Ellie. I knew she was very affected by this incident. Her name


    was the one who will be greatly affected by this incident.


    ¡°I will find out who the culprit is, and I will make him pay. I will clear your name.¡± I told her, hoping


    that somehow it willfort her.


    ¡°Are you sure that you chose me because of my skills and not because we had a one-night stand?¡±


    She asks in a whisper, and then she removed herself from my hug.


    My forehead creased. Is she questioning her talent? I can''t believe this!


    ¡°Of course! And remember I asked your team to do a draft before we announced that you got the


    project?¡±


    She nodded.


    ¡°Among all the presenters, we chose the top threepanies and asked for a draft design of how


    you guys envision the LHI resort. We chose you because your draft design where simply the best


    and the same as how we expect the resort.¡± I exined to clear her doubts.


    ¡°Also, I am not the only one who chose your design. It was the board of directors. I asked the team


    to present the n without the name of thepanies to avoid favoritism. So rest assured that you


    got the project fair and square.¡± I added.


    She sighed aloud. ¡°Thank you for telling me this. I admit that this incident affects me and my


    thoughts about myself or my talent. I began to question it because of our situation. Thank you, Ulie.


    It helps me to bring back my confidence.¡±


    I hug her again.


    ¡°Don¡¯t ever doubt your talent. You are the most talented and independent girl I ever met. You are


    the best girl for me. Don¡¯t you dare forget that?!¡±


    She nodded and answered my embrace.


    ***


    The following day I asked Jace for an update.


    He gave me the information about the press that cause the incident yesterday.


    He also gave me newspapers and articles about yesterday''s event.


    ¡®Penelope Quinn Cabello seduce the CEO of LHI to get the resort project.¡¯


    ¡®Penelope Quinn Cabello is the reason behind the cancetion of Adelson and Escarrer Wedding.¡¯


    ¡®Penelope Quinn Cabello uses her child to get the resort project.¡¯


    ¡®Owner of Cabello International Corporation, a no-namedpany, uses her body to get the LHI


    Resort project.¡¯


    All the headline is about discrediting Ellie and herpany from getting the resort project.


    It made me fuming mad. I will make the person behind this pay 10x more of the humiliation that he


    did for Ellie.


    ¡°Jace talked to thework and asked them to block all news about this incident. Also, if they don¡¯t


    comply, you already know what to do.¡±


    ¡°Also, all the columnist who writes an article that tarnishes Ellie¡¯s reputation, make them pay for


    what they did,¡± I said in a cold voice.


    ¡°Copy, Sir.¡±


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°And Jace, kindly call Luna, tell her to inform all their employee not to tell Ellie about these issues


    we will handle this. I already got rid of her phone andptop. I will go back to Ellie¡¯s penthouse; I will


    work there in the meantime. Cancel all my meetings for today.¡±


    Jace nodded and went out of my office.


    When I went out of the hotel, I saw many people from the press lobbying in my hotel.


    I call Jace.


    ¡°Jace, calls the security, drives the media away. Tell them that we will sue them if they do not follow.


    They are disturbing our guests.¡±

 Chapter 15 LEAD

    Chapter 15 LEAD


    ¡°Where are my phone andptop?¡± Ellie bombarded me as soon as I enter the nursery room.


    ¡°Ellie, it''s best if you will focus your time with our children,¡± I said.


    She red at me.


    ¡°I¡¯m not stupid, Ulie. I know why did you hide my phone andptop. I am not weak as you think.¡±


    She said in a cold voice.


    I knew she would be angry at me. I don''t want her to be hurt.


    ¡°I know, but let me handle this,¡± I said, full of concern.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need you to fight my battles. I have been doing this alone, and I handled it perfectly well.¡±


    ¡°But I want to. Just let me deal with them, please, Ellie.¡±


    I know she''s strong and independent because she has no choice. Her parents died when she just


    graduated from college.


    She needs to take over thepany at the age of 21. It''s not easy for a 21-year-old girl to take that


    enormous responsibility. She was alone then, but not anymore. I am here for her to fight with her


    battles.


    ¡°Ulie, let us make this clear. You are only allowed to make decisions for the kids. I am not your


    responsibility. I can handle my battles well, and you have no right to make decisions in MY


    problems. You are crossing the line Ulie.¡±


    I didn''t like what I heard, but she is right. I know that what we had is only for the kids. We are not in


    a rtionship or something. She made that clear very well.


    It just didn''t sink in until now.


    I can¡¯t help myself to worry whenever she was in trouble.


    ¡°I just wanted to protect you, Ellie.¡± I sincerely said.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need your protection, Ulie. Could you give me back my phone andptop?¡± She said in a


    cold voice.


    I guess I have no choice but to give it to her.


    ***


    ¡®Penelope Quinn Cabello seduce the CEO of LHI to get the resort project.¡¯


    ¡®Penelope Quinn Cabello is the reason behind the cancetion of Adelson and Escarrer Wedding.¡¯


    ¡®Penelope Quinn Cabello uses her child to get the resort project.¡¯


    ¡®Owner of Cabello International Corporation, a no-namedpany, uses her body to get the LHI


    Resort project.¡¯


    What the heck?!


    Now I understand why Ulie wanted to keep me away from my phone andptop. This we''re all


    insane!


    I will definitely sue this person once I cleared everything up. I don''t care if they have I''ll motive or


    not, but I will surely make them pay for tarnishing my name.


    I feel sorry for what I have said to Ulie. I know he was just concerned, but as much as possible, I


    don''t want to be dependent on anyone.


    Peoplee and go even if they don''t want to. I hate losing people that matter to me.


    Also, I knew that he was treating me well because I help him with his arranged marriage problem.


    We don''t owe anything to each other. I nned all this for my benefit. It just so happen that he also


    benefitted from it.


    ¡°Luna, find out who was the person behind all this. I am sure that the people behind this were one of


    ourpetitors in the LHI project.¡± I instructed Luna.


    ¡°How did you get your phone?¡±


    I rolled my eyes. She knew what Ulie did, and she just let him.


    ¡°You knew that I don''t want anyone to fight my own battles, right? And I¡¯m not stupid, Luna. I knew


    that Ulie causes my phone andptop incident.¡± I hissed.


    ¡°But you did not scold him or something? I hope you knew that he has just done that for your sake


    because he was concerned about you.¡± She said in a low voice, but I knew she was nagging me.


    ¡°I did not scold. I just tell him that he crossed the line.¡± I said, defending myself.


    ¡°You did what?!¡±


    ¡°What?!¡±


    ¡°Ellie, you are so mean. Why did you tell him that?¡± Luna scold me now.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with what I said? He indeed crossed the line. He only has the right to decide for the


    kids. He has no right to fight my battles. I will deal with it.¡± I exined to her.


    ¡°You are impossible, Ellie! You and your mouth!¡±


    ¡°What did I do?¡± I asked, a bit confused.


    ¡°What did you do?! Ellie, you insulted him for being concerned with you. His motive was good.


    Instead of thanking him, you insulted him!¡±


    ¡°Woah, wait! I did not insult him. I just told him the truth. You know that I don¡¯t particrly appreciate


    depending on myself nor my battle with someone else.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Ellie, I understand your point. But you can say it nicely by insulting him.¡±


    ¡°I was angry at that time.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Ellie, what will I do to you? You need to apologize to him.¡±


    Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    My eyes widen. ¡°Why will I do that?¡±


    ¡°Because what you told him is not good. It isn''t very kind, Ellie. He doesn¡¯t deserve your insult.¡± She


    raised her voice.


    Luna is pissed.


    ¡°Fine,¡± I told her to stop nagging me.


    After checking all my emails and pending work, I decided to talk to Ulie.


    I guess Luna was right. I should not have said that to him. Though for me, I just told him the truth,


    maybe I should have said it more nicely.


    ¡°Ulie?¡± I called him a bit hesitant.


    He was in my living room doing his work.


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°I would like to apologize for what I said earlier. I was pissed at that time. I''m not used to being


    protected.¡± I said in a lower voice.


    I am not used to this apologizing thing.


    He gave me a warm smile.


    ¡°I understand. I indeed crossed the line. I can¡¯t help myself but be protective of you.¡± He said, full of


    sincerity.


    ¡°I know you mean well, Ulie. That is why I apologize for mistreating you a while ago. You don''t


    deserve that.¡± I sincerely said.


    Now I understand what Luna meant when she was scolding me.


    ¡°No worries. But I hope you will let me help you to deal with this.¡±


    I guess I have no choice but to agree.


    I nodded in agreement.


    His eyes sparkle, and that made me smile.


    ¡°Great because I have now the lead.¡±

 Chapter 16 ULIE’S PROTECTION

    Chapter 16 ULIE¡¯S PROTECTION


    ¡°Great because I have now the lead.¡±


    My eyes widen. They got the lead this fast! LHI is apany you can¡¯t easily beat.


    ¡°Did you know RV Engineering and Architectural Services?¡± He asked in a serious voice.


    I smirked. I knew it. They are behind this.


    ¡°Of course, I know them. They are the leadingpany in the architecture and engineering industry


    here in the country.¡± I said.


    ¡°Okay. But did you have any issue or conflict with them?¡±


    ¡°Are they the one behind all these?¡±


    He nodded. I saw his jaw clenched.


    I sighed aloud. ¡°My hint is right.¡±


    His forehead creased. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Who was your Architect and Engineer in your existing hotels here in the country?¡± I asked instead.


    His eyes widen. He got my point.


    ¡°Oh yeah! Why didn¡¯t I think about that? I don''t care if they are the leadingpany in this industry.


    I will make them pay for what they did to you.¡± He said in a menacing voice.


    ¡°But our priority is to clear my name in this issue,¡± I said.


    He looks at me with gentleness. ¡°I know, Ellie. I will definitely clear your name.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Ulie. I don''t want the CIC name to be tarnished because of me. And also, I don''t want


    our kids to think that they exist because I want to get this project.¡± I said almost in a whisper.


    I don¡¯t mind them attacking me. But not CIC because that is my parent''s legacy. And also not my


    kids. I don''t want them to question their existence. It will break my heart.


    ¡°Yes, Ellie, I understand. These people knew nothing about us. They don''t have any right to judge or


    even toment on us. I will protect you and the kids. Trust me, Ellie.¡±


    I smiled and nodded at him.


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    This is my first time to experience being protected after seven years. I have always dealt with things


    alone since my parents died. I almost forgot how it feels to be protected.


    I suddenly want to be with the kids.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Ulie asked when he saw me stand and was about to leave.


    ¡°I want to see our twins,¡± I said in a gentle voice.


    I saw him smile. He also got up and held my hand.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go together.¡±


    I nodded and smile at him.


    I am getting used to Ulie¡¯s presence, not just in this house but in my life. I don''t know if it''s okay to


    feel this way.


    I don''t want to get used to his presence because I might hold onto him and never want to let him go.


    But we both know why we are together. It is only because of the kids and the freedom that he


    received because of my n.


    When we reached the twin''s nursery, I saw Amelia wake up from her sleep. She smiles, though I


    know that she can¡¯t see yet. But I guess she felt the presence of her parents.


    Then, Alistair woke up too. Ulie and I held the twins


    We did not utter any words. We savor this moment as we cuddle with our children.


    My children. My treasures.


    ***


    The following day, I heard noises when I went out of my bed.


    I saw Ulie¡¯s family in my living room. His parents were holding my children.


    ¡°I am d you are awake. Sis, are you okay?¡± Ka said while hugging me.


    I smile at her.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay. Don¡¯t worry about me. I am not a weakling.¡± I said to lift the mood.


    They look at me with worries. It''s ufortable because, for the past seven years, I am used to


    dealing with my problems alone.


    I already forgot the feeling of being protected and being the concern of people.


    Escarrer is a loving family. I can see how affectionate they are with one another.


    I am now d that half of my twin''s blood is from them.


    ¡°I heard you already knew who is the person behind this issue?¡± Ka asks to confirm.


    ¡°It''s the RVpany, right? They became greedy when they experience being the leadingpany


    here. They forgot that it was all thanks to us. Big bro, makes sure that you make them pay for what


    they did with my sister-inw.¡±


    ¡°I am not your sister-inw. Ulie and I were just friends.¡± I corrected her, but she ignores me.


    I just shook my head.


    I look at Ulie, and he just smiled at me. He mouthed, ¡®just let her be.¡¯


    I shrugged.


    ***


    After a week, I instructed my team to announce that we will be having a press conference.


    We were quiet despite all the noise from media and social media regarding this issue.


    I told Ellie to wait for the perfect timing. I am sure that ruining Ellie and CIC¡¯s reputation is just the


    first step to their primary n.


    If my suspicion is correct, they want to get the resort project.


    I smirked. As if I will let them have it. I will give them the dose of their own medicine.


    And true enough, while the issue is in the hot topic, their CEO set a meeting with me.


    ¡°Mr. Ventura of RV Engineering and Architectural Services wanted to set a meeting with you.¡±


    Great! They already proceeded with their n.


    I nodded. ¡°Tell them to meet me tomorrow at 10 am.¡±


    It''s payback time.

 Chapter 17 BACKFIRE

    Chapter 17 BACKFIRE


    Four days before we announced the press conference


    ¡°Ellie, I have a meeting today with RV shittypany,¡± I informed her.


    She chuckled. ¡°You are so mean, Ulie.¡±


    I clenched my jaw. ¡°That name suits theirpany. I will never forgive them for what they did to


    you. I will surely make them pay. They insulted you an Escarrer.¡±


    Her forehead creased. ¡°I am not part of Escarrer.¡± She corrected me.


    I smirked. ¡°The moment you gave birth to our children, you automatically became part of the


    Escarrer family.¡±


    She rolled her eyes. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare tell that to anyone?! You might not be able to get married when


    they hear that. They will assume that we are in a rtionship or something.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t n to marry anyone,¡± I told her.


    ¡°Oh yeah! I forgot. You didn¡¯t want to get married.¡± She said, then chuckled.


    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t mind getting married if you are the bride,¡± I told her.


    She justughed. ¡°Whatever, Ulie!¡±


    I shrugged. She never believes me whenever I say this thing to her. But I am serious whenever I


    said it. I am willing to marry her if she allows me, not just for the kids.


    The more I get to know Ellie, the more I wanted to be close to her.


    She was indeed a very strong woman. She wanted to show the world that she can handle things


    alone. But something inside of me wants to protect her. I want to be someone she can depend on.


    I was back from deep thinking when Ellie went to me with the twins.


    ¡°Say bye-bye to Daddy twins! Wish him luck with his meeting today.¡± Ellie said in a gentle, sweet


    voice.


    I smiled at my family. I love mornings like this.


    I kiss the twins goodbye.


    ¡°Bye, kids, I will see youter! Bye Ellie.¡± Then I kissed Ellie on the cheek.


    Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    She smiled at me and nodded. ¡°Bye, Ulie! Wish you luck!¡±


    I smirked. ¡°RV needed that luck more than me.¡±


    ***


    Jace informed me that RV¡¯s CEO is already here.


    I look at the time; it was almost 10 am. I smirked. It''s showtime!


    ¡°Tell them toe in,¡± I said in a formal voice.


    ¡°Copy, Sir,¡± Jace said, then end the inte call.


    ¡°Mr. Escarrer!¡±


    The voice came from an annoying person. I tried my best to control myself not to punch this guy.


    ¡°Mr. Ventura,¡± I said in a formal voice.


    Jace guides him to my conference room area.


    ¡°What¡¯s the meeting all about?¡± I said the moment we sat down in my conference room.


    I wanted to end this as soon as possible.


    ¡°First of all, I am sorry to hear about the LHI resorts issue.¡±


    My eyebrow raised.


    He cleared his throat when he saw that I don''t have anything to say.


    ¡°Well, I guess this thing will not happen if we were the ones who got this project.¡±


    I smirked finally.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    I saw him smile as if he was happy with what he heard.


    ¡°You know CIC is a namelesspany. I understand that they want theirpany to be known but


    using their body to get this project is way too immoral. When we got the LHI hotel project, we never


    had this kind of issue, nor scandal.¡± He said, full of insult.


    I clenched my fist. You dig your own grave, Mr. Ventura.


    ¡°And who told you that she was using her body to get this project?¡± I asked in a cold voice.


    I saw him flinched. ¡°W-well, it¡¯s obvious s-she got pregnant with your child. Or are you even sure


    that the kid was yours?¡±


    You are pushing your death too much.


    ¡°Are you insulting the Escarrer family?¡±


    He shivers. ¡°N-no, Mr. Escarrer, I never meant that.¡±


    ¡°My kids are Escarrer. Doubting them as an Escarrer bloodline is already an insult. I think you push


    your luck too much, or should I say death?¡± I said in a menacing voice.


    He turned pale. ¡°M-Mr. Escarrer-¡±


    ¡°Did you think that I will never find out that you were the one behind all this issue?¡±


    His eyes widen. ¡°No, Mr. Escarrer. I will never do that to you.¡±


    I smirked. ¡°You are already busted, Mr. Ventura. And for your information, Ellie never uses her body


    to get this project. The namelesspany that you are saying is way too goodpared to your


    company skills. They got the project fair and square.¡±


    ¡°What I have with Ellie is none of your business. You attacked the Escarrer, and I guess you already


    know what will happen to yourpany.¡±


    ¡°Mr. E-escarrer, please forgive me. I will clear this issue. Just please spare mypany.¡±


    ¡°Toote, Mr. Ventura.¡±


    I went to my conference door and opened it.


    ¡°Goodbye, Mr. Ventura. Expect our response from attacking Escarrer.¡±


    ¡°But I never attacked you. It was all for Ms. Cabello.¡±


    I smirked. ¡°Ellie is already an Escarrer.¡±


    His eyes widen. He gets down to my knees and begs.


    ¡°Mr. Escarrer, I didn''t know. I was foolish. I will fix the issue. Please forgive me and spare my


    company.¡± He continues to beg.


    ¡°No matter what you do, the damage has been done. Get out of my office now!¡± I said in a low and


    menacing voice.


    He looks defeated as he was walking out.


    ¡°Oh! By the way, it was me who uses my body to get her and not the other way around.¡±

 Chapter 18 KISS

    Chapter 18 KISS


    ¡®Hey Ellie, are you avable for a meeting?¡¯


    ¡°I guess. Why?¡±


    ¡®We will be opening a restaurant in Tagaytay, and we want CIC to do this project.¡±


    My eyes widen. I was surprised when Nick calls me all of a sudden.


    Wow! After LHI, we will be working on another big project.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Hearts Restaurant Group is a famous restaurant here in the Philippines because of its reputation in


    the US.


    They were one of the known high-end restaurants in America.


    My issue about LHI will end soon. The press conference will happen in three days.


    ¡°Are you sure that you like us to take this project? I mean, you know my issue.¡± I said.


    ¡®Yes, I am sure. Yes, I know about your issue with LHI. But I also know that all of those were lies. I


    have seen you and your team work first hand. I know how great your skills are. That is why I want


    you to handle this project because I know you will do great.¡¯


    ¡°Wow! I¡¯m ttered. Thank you for believing in us. I would love to work with Hearts Restaurant


    Group.¡±


    ¡®Great! I know you can¡¯t go outside now because of the media. Is it okay to do the meeting at your


    ce? I will be with my assistant and the head of the nning department.¡¯


    ¡°Thank you for being considerate. I will also ask my team to be in the meeting.¡±


    ¡®Great! Let¡¯s have a meeting tomorrow at 10 am, what do you think?¡¯


    ¡°Sure!¡±


    ¡®See you tomorrow! Bye!¡¯


    ¡°Yes, see you! Bye!¡±


    To be honest, because of the issue with LHI, many existing projects have been pulled out. My


    company is currently in crisis.


    But I know that it will be solved after the conference. Ulie already got the evidence we needed to


    clear my name.


    We also called ourpany¡¯s attorney to sue all the people behind this. Well, this is how I deal with


    enemies or people who wanted to sabotage mypany. Ulie is not telling me what he will do to


    those people involved. But it will not be as simple as how I deal with enemies. He will surely go


    beyond that.


    I heard about LHI¡¯s way of dealing with the people who tried to harm them. Those people and


    companies are no longer present in society. Either theirpany bankrupt, or they fled to another


    country because they don''t have a career in the country. And I am sure that they will never have the


    same career before LHI ruins them.


    ***


    Ulie and I were having lunch together.


    ¡°Nick called me,¡± I told him.


    I saw his forehead creased.


    ¡°Why is he calling you?¡± He said in a cold voice.


    Is he angry or what?


    ¡°He wanted to have a meeting with me and my team; they will be opening a new restaurant in


    Tagaytay,¡± I exined to him.


    ¡°Oh really? That¡¯s good! I know that is a big project. Congrats Ellie!¡± He said, now in a more rxed


    aura.


    I find his mood very weird.


    ¡°Yes. So tomorrow they will go here since I can¡¯t freely go out because of the issue.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Ellie, it will be over in three days. Those people will be nearing their death.¡± He said in


    a menacing voice.


    That sounds scary. But I don¡¯t feel sorry for them.


    ¡°I know, and I understand. Though many of my ongoing projects pulled out, I know that I will win


    them back once this is over.¡±


    He furrowed. ¡°Why do you need to win them back? Please don¡¯t waste your time on them. You don¡¯t


    need them. The best thing to do is to ban them from yourpany. Never do a project with those


    kinds of business people. You have LHI and Hearts. Once they see the finished product of the


    resorts and Hearts new restaurant, many big projects wille running onto you.¡±


    I think he is right. I should stop wasting my time on those kinds of clients. They are not worthy.


    I smiled at him. ¡°Thank you, Ulie, for always believing in me and with all your help. I appreciate it a


    lot.¡±


    He held my hand and gently squeezed it. ¡°You don¡¯t need to thank me, Ellie. I will always be here


    for you. We are family now.¡±


    ¡°I am not,¡± I beg to disagree.


    ¡°You are. The moment you gave birth to our twins, you already became part of the family, Ellie.¡± He


    said, full of sincerity.


    I can¡¯t find myself disagreeing because of the sincerity in his voice.


    ¡°Thank you. I will be preparing for my meeting with Nick tomorrow. Are you going back to your


    office?¡± I said instead.


    He nodded. ¡°Yes, I have a few papers that I need to deal with. Oh! By the way, Nick is a very picky


    client. You really need to prepare. Though I am confident that you will deliver what he wants for the


    project.¡±


    I smiled at him. ¡°I know; I experience it already in LHI resorts.¡±


    He chuckled. ¡°That was nothing. He will be worst now that this project is for Hearts.¡±


    I raised my eyebrow. ¡°Challenge epted then.¡±


    ***


    I was breastfeeding the twins when I saw Ulie enter the room. I guess he was done with his work.


    It''s already 8 pm.


    He went to Amelia to kiss her.


    He also went to Alistair. I was currently breastfeeding him.


    He kissed Alistair, but I saw his eyes looking at my breast. Perv!


    ¡°You can stop looking at my breast, Perv!¡±


    He chuckled. ¡°I was just appreciating.¡±


    I rolled my eyes.


    ¡°Whatever, perv! I have never seen you going out.¡± I suddenly asked.


    ¡°Why do I need to go out?¡±


    ¡°To have fun? To fulfill your needs?¡± I told him.


    Ever since he stays in my penthouse, I never saw him going out. I see him as a party guy and


    banging random girls.


    He was great in bed. I am very sure that he does that a lot.


    And now that he is with me, I have never seen him doing that in a while- I mean going to the bar or


    party.


    ¡°I am having fun with our kids. And you, on the other hand, can fulfill my needs.¡± Then he grins like


    a perv.


    ¡°Why do I need to fulfill your needs? Your purpose is already done. So please stop your illusion!¡± I


    said, then I rolled my eyes.


    He looks at me intently. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me; you don¡¯t miss my touch? I doubt that!¡±


    He looks and sounds confident, which irritates me.


    ¡°As if!¡± Is all I can say.


    He went closer to me.


    ¡°I am sure that you miss me, Ellie. You miss me in bed.¡± He said in a more seductive voice.


    I suddenly felt hot. ¡°S-stop it, Ulie!¡±


    His nose went to my cheeks then to my neck. ¡°I miss you, Ellie!¡±


    My heart beats so fast. I am feeling so hot right now. It''s all because of this perv!


    ¡°Ulie, you are disturbing Alistair,¡± I said to make him go away.


    ¡°Hey, buddy, aren¡¯t you done drinking your milk? Your dad wants to taste it too.¡±


    My eyes widen. I softly punched him.


    ¡°You perv, get out of this room! You are dirtying Alistair¡¯s mind!¡±


    Heughed aloud. ¡°He doesn¡¯t understand it yet, Ellie.¡±


    ¡°Whatever! Get out of here, perv!¡±


    He sighed. ¡°Fine, Ellie!¡±


    He then went to me and kissed me on the LIPS!

 Chapter 19 NICK’S OFFER

    Chapter 19 NICK¡¯S OFFER


    ¡°You look pale, Ellie. Are you sick?¡± Ulie asked.


    He looks at me with pure concern on his face.


    ¡°No. I¡¯m good. I wasn¡¯t able to sleep well because I am thinking about today¡¯s meeting.¡± I lied.


    The truth is, I wasn¡¯t able to sleep at all because his kissst night keeps bugging me.


    Ulie and I were clear about our rtionship. We are nothing but Alistair and Amelia¡¯s parents. We


    are both aware that we don¡¯t need to pretend a couple for the twins. We want to raise them fully


    aware of their parent¡¯s actual rtionship status.


    I never ask him to be faithful because we are not in a rtionship; we were never will. I knew why


    he was friendly with me and why he treats our children well; it was all because of the freedom that


    he got because of us.


    But now, I don¡¯t understand why he is not living a man''s life with freedom. He always gave most of


    his time with the twins and me. I have never seen him go out to a party or had fun with his friends.


    He acts as if he was a married man.


    I was back from my deep thinking when I hear Ulie keeps on calling my name.


    ¡°Ellie!¡±


    ¡°Y-yes? Are you saying something?¡± I asked, a bit disoriented.


    ¡°Are you sure you are okay? You can tell Nick to reschedule your meeting. Just rest in your room


    today.¡± He said, full of concern.


    I shook my head. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me. I am always like this whenever I have a big project.¡± I said,


    but it¡¯s a lie.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    I nodded and smile at him. ¡°Yes. Don¡¯t worry about me.¡±


    He sighed. ¡°Fine. But make sure to get a full rest after your meeting.¡±


    ¡°I will.¡±


    We continued our breakfast.


    He was about to leave and said goodbye when he went to me and KISSED ME ON THE LIPS.


    I was stunned.


    ¡°Bye, Ellie!¡± Then he smirked.


    ***


    I am trying my best to stop myself from thinking about Ulie and his kiss. I need my full attention now.


    Any minute now, Nick and his team will arrive.


    I am with my team in my study room waiting for our new client. We did some discussion about the


    current situation of thepany. But I assure them that the issue will be solved this week after the


    press conference with LHI.


    A few minutester, Nick and his team finally arrived. We start the meeting right away after


    introducing my team and his.


    ¡°We all know that Tagaytay is often chosen as a wedding venue. We wanted Hearts to expand in


    that kind of service, but we want to be in the highest standard by giving them the best venue, food,


    and service.¡±


    ¡°This is thend that we have newly acquired. We want to have the signature look of Hearts


    Restaurant and the added service.¡±


    I already have some ideas for this project.


    ¡°Have you considered putting three rooms to be used in their pre-nuptial shoot? In that way, they


    won¡¯t be needing to rent a close hotel to do the shoot? I mean Hotel will be your number 1


    competitor in this kind of target market. Especially, most of the hotels here are also offering garden


    weddings.¡±


    He nodded. ¡°That is a good idea, Ellie. But why three rooms?¡±


    ¡°I am thinking of having two VIP suite-like rooms and one standard room. The two VIP suites will be


    for the groom and bride. The standard room is for the videographer, coordinators, etc.¡± I exined


    to him.


    ¡°Good point. You can put that on the n. I am now getting more excited by all your inputs. I am


    right in choosing yourpany.¡±


    We ended the meeting, and I offered them some refreshments.


    Nick wanted to see the twins, and I went him to the twin''s nursery room. Luna tag along with us.


    ¡°Amelia is looking exactly like Ulie.¡± Nick blurted out.


    He looks amused as he was holding Amelia.


    ¡°Yes. Alistair, on the other hand, looks like Ellie.¡± Luna added.


    ¡°You are right. These two resemble their parents equally.¡± Nick added.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Luna was busy ying with the twins when Nick faced me and talked to me.


    ¡°I heard from Ulie that some of your clients pulled out and even investors. Is that true?¡± Nick said.


    I was about to answer when Luna spoke.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s true! Most of our employees are getting scared to lose their jobs because of the sudden


    drop in stocks. But Ellie assured us that it would be over soon. And we trusted her.¡± Luna said


    emotionally.


    ¡°It¡¯s amon thing when this kind of issue happened. But are you willing to ept those who left


    you once the issue has been cleared?¡±


    I shook my head. ¡°I will not ept them anymore. Ulie made me realize that they are now worth it.¡±


    ¡°I agree,¡± Luna said with full conviction.


    ¡°Since you will not ept your former investors, If it¡¯s alright, will you allow me to invest in your


    company?¡±


    My eyes widen.


    ¡°But why?¡± I can¡¯t help but ask.


    ¡°Aside from managing Hearts Restaurant Group, I also invest in potentialpanies. When I saw


    how your team works for LHI, I knew that you would be leading thepany soon, and I don''t want


    to miss it; I want to be part of it.¡±


    ¡°Wow! I don''t know what to say. I feel so ttered.¡± I said, still in disbelief.


    ¡°What are you saying, Ellie?! You all need to say is YES! You want him to invest. He is Nichs


    Hearts! When people found out that he is one of our investors, surely our stocks will soar high!¡±


    Luna said in total excitement.


    You can see her eyes twinkle as she heard Nick¡¯s offer.


    Nick chuckled. ¡°So, Ellie, what¡¯s your decision?¡±


    I chuckled too and smiled at him. ¡°I will, of course, ept your offer. Thank you for believing in


    Cabello International Corporation.¡±

 Chapter 20 PRESS CONFERENCE

    Chapter 20 PRESS CONFERENCE


    Today is the most awaited press conference of LHI.


    ¡°Are you ready?¡±


    I smirked at Ulie. ¡°Of course.¡±


    He offers his hand to me, and I dly epted it.


    Aside from Ulie and me, Nick will also be joining the press conference along with the legal


    representative from CIC and LHI.


    Ellie''s family is with us. They will stay in the waiting room beside the hall where the press


    conference will happen. They will watch the live press conference there. And they will take care of


    the twins for the time being.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Jace opens the hall for us. Many reporters from all TVworks, newspapers, radio, and magazines


    attended.


    The non-stop shing camera started as soon as they saw us entering the hall.


    Jace stays beside the stage while we continue to go to our designated seats.


    A legal representative of LHI gave the opening statement. He told the press that they are only


    allowed to ask questions after we answer the issue.


    He gave them two main issues that we will answer.


    1. Is Mr. Ulysses Kade Escarrer the father of Ms. Penelope Quinn Cabello''s children?


    2. Did LHI choose Ms. Cabello¡¯spany for the LHI resort project because of her rtionship with


    Mr. Escarrer?


    He then called Ulie to speak.


    ¡°Regarding the twins of Ms. Cabello, yes, it¡¯s true. I am the father of the twins.¡± Ulie said in a formal


    and serious voice.


    The shing camera bes more aggressive.


    ¡°If you are the father of Ms. Cabello¡¯s twins, is it true that she is the reason why you cancel your


    engagement with Ms. Hadley Adelson?¡± One of the reporters ask.


    ¡°No. The reason why I cancel my engagement with Ms. Adelson is because of my twins and not


    because of Ellie. We don¡¯t have a rtionship at that time.¡± He exined.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t have any rtionship with Ms. Cabello, then howe that you are the father of her


    children?¡± The reporter follows up question.


    ¡°Me, being the father of her children is none of your business.¡± Ulie coldly said.


    The reporter flinched.


    ¡°We will have a party for the twins. That will be their official appearance to the public. They will be


    introduced as Escarrer future sessors.¡±


    The reporters murmur and start shing their cameras because of Ulie¡¯s announcement.


    ¡°Mr. Escarrer, you said a while ago that you and Ms. Cabello don¡¯t have a rtionship when you


    cancel your engagement with Ms. Adelson. Do you mean that now you are in a rtionship with Ms.


    Cabello?¡± Another reporter asks.


    My eyes widen. I didn¡¯t realize it then. The reporter got the point. I need to clear that out.


    ¡°No, we don¡¯t have a rtionship then until now,¡± I answer to rify the issue.


    Ulie chuckled. ¡°We¡¯ll never know. We are living together.¡±


    ¡°Ulie!¡± I said in a warning tone.


    ¡°What? It¡¯s true.¡± He whispered.


    ¡°They might think that we have a rtionship!¡± I whisper back.


    ¡°Who cares? We are both single, and we have children. This will be good for the kids. Just think


    about them, Ellie.¡±


    My eyebrow rose. So is it for a show for the kids or his parents? Maybe he is being pressured by his


    parents¡ªthe reason why he is acting weird these past few days.


    ¡°Whatever!¡± Then I rolled my eyes.


    ¡°Now that we are clear about the first issue. This time I will answer your main concern.¡± Ulie started


    his speech again.


    I turned to them in a serious aura and then held my chin up.


    ¡°Cabello International Corp. got the project fair and square. They got the project even before I found


    out about her pregnancy.¡±


    ¡°This project is the first resort of LHI here in the Philippines. It is an important project, and we can¡¯t


    afford to give favoritism. This is Escarrer¡¯s legacy.¡±


    ¡°We gather all qualified architectural and engineeringpanies for this project. We chose the top


    threepanies from those who presented their proposal.¡±


    ¡°After that, we gave the three chosenpanies the details they need to draft a design for the said


    project.¡±


    ¡°Here are the designs that were submitted to us.¡±


    Three design drafts sh on the screen.


    This is also my first time seeing this. Now that I¡¯ve seen the three designs, I know why we got this


    project.


    ¡°That¡¯s exactly the materials that the team gave to the board of directors, including me. They gave


    us the designs, but they did not include the name of thepany. We did this to avoid favoritism.


    Because as you all know, RV Engineering and Architectural Services is thepany that got the


    LHI hotels project. If we knew what RV design was, we might be bias and choose their design


    because of the business that we had with them, same goes with CIC.¡±


    ¡°Now, we will add the name of thepanies who is responsible for those designs.¡±


    The name of thepanies, including CIC, sh on the screen and the number of votes that they


    got.


    My eyes widen. CIC got 100% of the votes!


    ¡°If you are familiar with LHI resort, you will know the signature design that we have in all our resorts.


    That is the main reason why all the board of directors chose CIC¡¯s design.¡±


    I have the same opinion as them. I also understand why they chose mypany. LHI is one of my


    target clients. I am a fan of the structure and design of their resorts and hotels. The reason why I


    knew their signature design both for their hotels and resorts.


    ¡°It¡¯s crystal clear that Cabello International Corporation got the project fair and square.¡± He said as


    he ends his speech.


    ¡°Ms. Cabello, how do you feel about the issue?¡± The reporter asks me.


    ¡°I will be frank. At first, I question Ulie about it. At some point, I also thought that maybe they chose


    mypany because of my involvement with Ulie. But after seeing the design, I finally understand


    why they chose our design for their resorts.¡± I honestly told them.


    ¡°Do you think that someone is behind this issue?¡± Another reporter asks.


    I smirked. ¡°Of course there is. And we already know who is the person behind all these.¡±

 Chapter 21 INVESTORS

    Chapter 21 INVESTORS


    ¡°Of course there is. And we already know who is the person behind all these.¡±


    The media started to murmur and sh cameras again.


    This is a big scoop for everyone. They will not miss it for the world.


    The legal representative started to exin my ims.


    ¡°After themotion in the LHI resorts mediaunch, ourpany started to investigate. It¡¯s


    obvious that it was well nned and someone is behind this.¡± He started his speech.


    ¡°We look on the bank ount of the person who maliciously used Ms. Cabello of doing dirty


    tactics to get the LHI Resort Project.¡±


    ¡°And we found this on his bank ount three days before the said event.¡±


    The monitor showed them the bank transaction of the person he mentioned but it didn¡¯t reveal the


    person who transferred the money to the said bank ount.


    ¡°Also, days after the event, he was seen meeting Mr. Ventura of RV Engineering and Architectural


    Services.¡± He revealed.


    ¡°Are you saying that Mr. Ventura of RV Engineering and Architectural Services is the one behind all


    this issue?¡± One of the media people asked.


    ¡°Why will they do that? Isn¡¯t RV Engineering and Architectural Services the one who did the LHI


    Hotels project here in the Philippines?¡± Another person from the media asked.


    Ulie nodded. ¡°Yes, they were the ones who got the LHI Hotels project. And that fact gave you


    already the idea why they did this to Ms. Cabello¡¯spany.¡±


    Then a video recorder shes on the monitor.


    It was his meeting with Mr. Ventura.


    ¡°First of all, I am sorry to hear about the LHI resorts issue.¡± It was Mr. Ventura.


    ¡°Well, I guess this thing will not happen if we were the ones who got this project.¡± He added.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Ulie asked.


    Mr. Ventura smile as if he was happy with Ulie¡¯s response.


    ¡°You know CIC is a namelesspany. I understand that they want theirpany to be known but


    using their body to get this project is way too immoral. When we got the LHI hotel project, we never


    had this kind of issue, nor scandal.¡± He said, full of insult.


    Ulie clenched his fist.


    ¡°And who told you that she was using her body to get this project?¡± Ulie asked in a cold voice.


    He flinched. ¡°W-well, it¡¯s obvious s-she got pregnant with your child. Or are you even sure that the


    kid was yours?¡±


    ¡°Are you insulting the Escarrer family?¡± Ulie said in a menacing voice.


    He shivers. ¡°N-no, Mr. Escarrer, I never meant that.¡±


    ¡°My kids are Escarrer. Doubting them as an Escarrer bloodline is already an insult. I think you push


    your luck too much, or should I say death?¡±


    He turned pale. ¡°M-Mr. Escarrer-¡±


    ¡°Did you think that I will never find out that you were the one behind all this issue?¡±


    His eyes widen. ¡°No, Mr. Escarrer. I will never do that to you.¡±


    Ulie smirked. ¡°You are already busted, Mr. Ventura. And for your information, Ellie never uses her


    body to get this project. The namelesspany that you are saying is way too goodpared to


    yourpany skills. They got the project fair and square.¡±


    ¡°What I have with Ellie is none of your business. You attacked the Escarrer, and I guess you already


    know what will happen to yourpany.¡±


    ¡°Mr. E-escarrer, please forgive me. I will clear this issue. Just please spare mypany.¡±


    ¡°Toote, Mr. Ventura.¡±


    ¡°Goodbye, Mr. Ventura. Expect our response from attacking Escarrer.¡±


    ¡°But I never attacked you. It was all for Ms. Cabello.¡±


    Ulie smirked. ¡°Ellie is already an Escarrer.¡±


    His eyes widen. He gets down to my knees and begs.


    ¡°Mr. Escarrer, I didn''t know. I was foolish. I will fix the issue. Please forgive me and spare my


    company.¡± He continues to beg.


    The video ended. It was enough evidence to prove that he was the one behind this.


    Then the monitor shes the bank ount transaction earlier, this time it revealed the person who


    sent the money to the receiver. It was none other than Mr. Ventura of RV.


    ¡°From all the evidence that we have shown you, it was very clear that Mr. Ventura of RV


    Engineering and Architectural Services is the one behind all malicious usations towards Ms.


    Cabello and herpany.¡± My legal representative began to speak.


    ¡°As Cabello International Corporation legal representative, we will take legal actions toward the said


    company. We will also charge them for harming thepany and Ms. Cabello¡¯s reputation. We are


    not open to any negotiation.¡± My legal representative said in full conviction.


    ¡°And as for LHI, we are now canceling all our project or business transaction with RV Engineering


    and Architectural Services. We are also putting them on our blocked list ofpanies. Any


    company who will transact with them will also be in LHI blocked listpanies.¡± Ulie said with


    finality.


    ¡°And as for others who were involved in his scheme, you already know what will happen to all of


    you,¡± Ulie added.


    The media flinched. They knew that they are also responsible for making this issue this big and


    scandalous.


    ¡°Ms. Cabello now that the issue has been cleared, were you expecting that the investor who left you


    wille back and invest again in yourpany?¡± A reporter asked.


    I smirked. ¡°I wanted them toe back at first.¡± I honestly told them.


    ¡°But I realized, do I need to keep those kinds of investors who are only with me when I was doing


    good, and will not have a second thought of leaving me when I face a problem?¡±


    I looked at Ulie and smile.


    ¡°Ulie made me realize that those kinds of investors are not worth keeping.¡±


    ¡°Is that the reason why Mr. Hearts is here? Is it safe to assume that Mr. Hearts will be investing in


    yourpany?¡± A reported butted in.


    I know that the media are curious about his presence in this press conference.


    He was not involved in the issue. Having his presence here is a big question mark.


    ¡°You are all aware of my partnership with LHI Hotels. I will also be partnered with them in LHI


    Resort, that being said, I was able to work with CIC and personally saw how great they are in their


    field.¡± Nick started his speech.


    ¡°I am here because I will be announcing two important things.¡±


    ¡°One is that Hearts Restaurant Group will be having a big project in Tagaytay. And CIC will be the


    one who will handle the project. Despite the rumor or scandal made by RV, I have seen them work,


    enough for me to entrust them this project.¡± He announced.


    You will see the nonstop shing of the camera and reporters busy typing on theirptops because


    of Nick¡¯s announcement.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about Ms. Cabello¡¯s credibility. We can run a pregnancy test for you to be


    assured that she got the project fair and square.¡± Nick joked.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Ulie red at him. I shook my head and hold Ulie¡¯s hand. He looks pissed and ready to punch his


    friend because of that joke.


    The media on the other handughed because of Nick¡¯s joke.


    Nick returns with his serious face. ¡°The second announcement is what you guys specte awhile


    ago. I will be one of the major investors of CIC.¡±


    ¡°CIC now has two major investors. One is Mr. Nichs Hearts and the second investor is none


    other than Mr. Ulysses Kade Escarrer.¡± I formally announced.


    When Ulie heard about Nick investing in mypany, he sulks because he wanted to be the first


    one to invest in mypany.


    He was nning to offer me that after this conference. He was pissed hearing that Nick offered it


    first.


    I don¡¯t have any choice but to allow him to be one of my major investors.

 Chapter 22 DON’T MESS WITH ELLIE

    Chapter 22 DON¡¯T MESS WITH ELLIE


    After the press conference regarding CIC¡¯s credibility in getting the LHI Resort Project, ourpany


    was still a hot topic in the country. The only difference now is that all the write-ups were positive.


    Our credibility is now cleared, and our stocks tripled- the stocks will be considered at an all-time


    high, thanks to Nichs Hearst and Ulysses Kade Escarrer.


    ¡°Ellie, the receptionist, called, and she told me that Mr. Ventura is in the lobby and he wanted to talk


    to you. I told her that you would not meet him, but Mr. Ventura insist on meeting you, and now he is


    making a scene in the lobby.¡± Luna reported to me.


    I am not surprised by his sudden visit. I heard that hispany is facing bankruptcy because of his


    scheme. When Ulie announced that they blocked listed RV, it was expected that it will be the end for


    Mr. Ventura¡¯spany.


    No one will want or even attempt to work with them. Working with them means that they are on


    Escarrer¡¯s bad side. It will surely be hard for Mr. Ventura to survive. I pity the employees at his


    company because they will also suffer from what their boss did.


    I¡¯m sure that he already went to Ulie to ask for mercy; knowing Ulie, he will not forgive him because


    he targeted not only me but our twins.


    ¡°I will go down and meet him, but kindly call the police for backup,¡± I instructed Luna.


    ¡°Copy. I will inform the receptionist now.¡± Luna said.


    I went to the lobby to meet Mr. Ventura. As I reach the ground floor of the hall, I already hear Mr.


    Ventura¡¯s voice.


    ¡°I will not leave this ce until I talk to Ms. Cabello!¡± He threatened them.


    I just shook my head. He looks desperate; who wouldn¡¯t, right?


    ¡°Mr. Ventura,¡± I called him.


    His eyes lit up when he saw me. He went to me, but the security stops him. They hold him so that


    he can¡¯t move.


    I went closer to him.


    ¡°Why do you want to talk to me?¡± I asked him.


    ¡°I want to apologize for what I did to you. I just felt betrayed when I found out about your child with


    Ms. Escarrer. I thought that you use your child for the project.¡± He said.


    I smirked. ¡°You should have asked Mr. Escarrer or me first before you nt all this. You ruined not


    just my name but my parent¡¯spany. You even use my twins to ruin me just because of that


    project!¡± I said in a menacing voice.


    He kneeled. ¡°I know, I know I did something unforgivable. Please forgive me and help me to


    convince Mr. Escarrer to forgive me.¡±


    ¡°Why would I help you?¡± I asked coldly.


    ¡°Have mercy on me. I am already ruined. You already cleared your name. You also got Mr. Hearst


    and Mr. Escarrer as your investor. This whole situation turned favorable in you.¡± He said.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    I raised my eyebrow. ¡°So should I thank you for all this?¡±


    He shakes his head. ¡°No... that¡¯s not what I meant. I¡¯m desperate right now. Please, Ms. Cabello...


    Please help me. You are my only hope.¡± He pleaded.


    ¡°Will you do that if I were in your ce?¡± I asked him.


    He did not answer.


    ¡°I am certain that if your n seeded, you will never help me nor care for mypany. So why


    will I help you now that your n fails?¡± I said in a cold voice.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Ventura, but I can¡¯t help you. You need to reap what you sow. That is the result of


    your greediness and selfishness. You need to face the consequences of your actions.¡±


    Mr. Ventura¡¯s shoulder dropped, and he looks defeated. I want to forgive him, but I also want him to


    learn from what he did or he will never learn.


    I saw the police enter the building going in our direction.


    ¡°You should go now, Mr. Ventura. If not, the police will handle you.¡± I said and left him.


    ***


    When I went home, Ulie asks me about the incident with Mr. Ventura. I told him everything that


    happened.


    I saw him smile and look so proud of what I did.


    ¡°I¡¯m impressed, Ellie! I thought that you would forgive Mr. Ventura because you will feel pity for him.¡±


    He said.


    I smirked. ¡°Why would I? He was the one who tried to ruin my parent''spany and me.¡±


    He shrugged. ¡°You know girls were weak when ites to emotions. Girls easily persuaded.¡±


    ¡°Oh! Is that how you deal with girls? You are targeting their emotions?¡± I asked in a teasing way.


    He furrowed. ¡°Why did you suddenly ask me that kind of question?¡±


    I just shrugged.


    ¡°Wait, Ellie! Don¡¯t tell me you are jealous?¡± He teased me.


    I rolled my eyes. ¡°In your dreams!¡±


    He chuckled. ¡°Well, I can¡¯t think of any reason for you to ask me that kind of question. But for the


    record, I never do that with girls. I never let them be attached to me. I just want to enjoy their


    company.¡±


    ¡°Fair enough.¡± I just said.


    ¡°Are we clear now? You shouldn¡¯t be jealous of them.¡± He said, assuring me.


    I justughed at him. ¡°Stop assuming things, okay?! I¡¯m not jealous, and I asked because I was


    curious. I have no hidden motive.¡±


    ¡°Whatever you say, but back to Mr. Ventura, he went and asked for your help because he thought


    that he could easily persuade you to help him.¡±


    I nodded. ¡°I get your point. He thought that because I¡¯m a girl, he can take advantage of my emotion


    to help him. But I¡¯m sorry to disappoint him, but I am not like the other girls.¡±


    ¡°I agree with you. The first time I met you, I already know that you are special.¡±

 Chapter 23 WHAT IF

    Chapter 23 WHAT IF


    ¡°Alistair and Amelia! My babies, your auntie misses you so much!¡±


    Ka went to the twins when we arrived at Escarrer¡¯s mansion. The twins¡¯ grandparents requested


    us to spend the weekend with them in their mansion.


    It¡¯s been a month since the issue with Mr. Ventura happened. Thepany became so busy


    because of the two projects.


    Engineers from CIC started to execute the project and I can¡¯t wait to see the final execution of the


    project.


    ¡°Ellie, can you consider living here with the twins? I want to spend time with them every day.¡± Ka


    said for the nth time.


    Whenever she visits us in the penthouse or their mansion, she always offers me to live with them


    here in the mansion.


    ¡°You can visit the twins in my penthouse every day if you want to spend time with them every day.


    You are always wee.¡± I just said.


    She pouted her lips. I¡¯m amazed that she still offers me to live with them even though she always


    receives the same reply.


    ¡°Ka stops annoying Ellie,¡± Ulie said to his sister.


    ¡°I¡¯m not annoying her. I just want her to live here in the mansion.¡± Ka defended herself.


    ¡°But she always tells you that she doesn¡¯t want to live here.¡±


    ¡°She did not. She just told me that I can visit the twins in the penthouse.¡±


    Ulie shrugged. ¡°It means the same.¡±


    ¡°Whatever!¡±


    ¡°Stop you two with your petty argument the lunch is ready. Let¡¯s go to the dining area.¡± Auntie Adelia


    said to her children.


    After our not so peaceful lunch because Ka and Ulie keep on fighting over petty things. We all


    bonded in the garden. We drink tea and talk like a normal family.


    I was amazed by the simplicity of the Escarrer. They are far from other elite families. I could see the


    genuine love and care of them to one another, even though Ulie and Ka always argue. I find their


    petty arguments cute. I never had a sibling so I never had a chance to have that kind of memory. It''s


    always my parents and me.


    I suddenly miss my parents. We often do these things every weekend. We love spending time with


    one another. The reason why even though I don¡¯t have friends then, I was still happy was that my


    parents is with me.


    I was back from reality when I heard Ulie¡¯s voice.


    ¡°Penny for your thoughts?¡±


    I smiled at him. ¡°I suddenly miss my parents. We often do this family bonding before.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for your loss. I know that it was hard for you when you lose them.¡±


    ¡°It is. I miss them every day. I often wish that it was all just a dream. I love them so much.¡± My tears


    started to fall as I share with Ulie what I really felt.


    He went to me and gave me a warm hug. ¡°It will be okay Ellie. Alistair and Amelia are with you now.


    I am also here for you.¡±


    ¡°I know. But I can¡¯t stop myself from missing my parents.¡±


    ¡°I did my best in school to make them proud but they weren¡¯t able to hear my speech at my


    graduation because they already left me on that day. It should have been my happiest day but it


    turned out to be my worst day.¡±


    I cried hard on Ulie¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°Hush now Ellie I know that your parents were so proud of you. I¡¯m sure that they would want to


    hear your speech and to spend more time with you. They don¡¯t want to leave you alone and they


    want you to move forward and be happy.¡± Ulie said.


    ¡°Ellie you are part of the Escarrer family whether you marry our son or now. We always see you as


    our daughter, you can treat us as your parents.¡±


    I look at Auntie Adelia. She was teary-eyed when she uttered those words.


    My tears keep on flowing.


    ¡°Thank you, Auntie.¡± I sincerely told her.


    ¡°Oh sweetie you can just call me mom. Please call me mom.¡±


    ¡°M-mom,¡± I said almost in a whisper.


    ¡°My daughter.¡± Then she went to me and hug me.


    I cried again because she felt the same as the warmth I felt with my mom.


    After that Uncle, or should I say dad went to me and offered me a hug.


    I miss you, mom and dad. I wish you were here.


    ***


    The weekend that I had with the Escarrer was the best weekend I ever had since I lost my parents.


    I¡¯m thankful that they didn¡¯t hate me because of ruining their n for their son. They are always


    amodating and warm. Ulie is very lucky to have them as his parents.


    Today I will be visiting the site in Tagaytay to check the project.


    I didn¡¯t expect to see Nick on the site.


    ¡°Ellie d you are here!¡± Nick wee me.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know that you are here,¡± I said.


    ¡°I often visit the site whenever I have this kind of project.¡± He exined.


    I just nodded at him.


    After checking the site, Nick invited me to have coffee with him.


    ¡°I heard from Ulie that you had a great weekend in the Escarrer mansion.¡± Nick started to open a


    topic.


    ¡°We did. It was the best weekend that we had.¡± I told him.


    ¡°I can see that you guys are getting along well. Why can¡¯t you just marry my friend?¡± He asked


    curiously.


    I chuckled. ¡°As if you don¡¯t know our real situation.¡±


    He nodded. ¡°Yes, I know. But your original n was far from the things that happened now. Do you


    still want to stick to your n since many have changed?.¡±


    I smiled at him. ¡°I don¡¯t see the need for us to get married as you said we are getting along very


    well.¡±


    ¡°Yes, but aren¡¯t you afraid that someday, someone will steal him from you?¡±


    I furrowed. ¡°He was never been mine, to begin with.¡±


    His face went closer to mine. ¡°Are you sure about that?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    He shrugged. ¡°Nothing. Didn¡¯t ite to you that Ulie has a fianc¨¦?¡±


    ¡°I know, she was Ms. Hadley Adelson.¡±


    I saw his eyes widen which made me chuckle. Didn¡¯t he know that Ulie told me about her?


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°You knew!¡±


    I nodded at him.


    ¡°What if she asks you to give Ulie to her, will you give her what she wants?¡±

 Chapter 24 LUNCH

    Chapter 24 LUNCH


    ¡°What if she asks you to give Ulie to her, will you give her what she wants?¡±


    My forehead furrowed. ¡°Why are you asking me this kind of question? Did something happen?¡±


    He shrugged. ¡°Nothing. I was just curious. The Adelson didn¡¯t do anything when the Escarrer cancel


    the marriage that they have agreed on.¡±


    He has a point, even I, myself were quite surprised when the Adelson didn¡¯t make any move nor


    reaction to Escarrer¡¯s sudden decision.


    ¡°What do you think?¡± He asked me.


    I heaved a sigh. ¡°I¡¯m don¡¯t know. I don¡¯t know them personally, I have no idea how they think.¡±


    ¡°I know Hadley. We were ssmates in college when I studied abroad.¡±


    What? Is that for real? So it''s safe to say that he knew him quite well.


    ¡°Are you guys close?¡± I curiously ask.


    Honestly, I am interested in her when Ulie told me that she was the girl he was supposed to marry.


    Hadley Adelson has a good reputation in the business world. She was the heiress of Adelson


    Hotels. I heard that she was good at handling their business.


    I heard that they are currently expanding in Asia, but they are not yet building a hotel here in the


    Philippines. Mypany was actually waiting for them to expand here in the Philippines and work


    with them.


    ¡°I can say that we are close but it¡¯s nothingpared to her closeness with Enrique Schulz.¡±


    ¡°Wait?! Enrique Schulz? The CEO of Schulz Technologies?¡± I asked in amazement.


    He nodded as if he is not a big deal.


    ¡°Wow! She¡¯s so out of reach. I mean, she was the supposed wife of Ulysses Kade Escarrer, she is


    also close with Nichs Hearst and now Enrique Schulz?! Geez, she¡¯s so lucky to be surrounded


    with powerful men in the business world.¡± I can¡¯t help butment.


    She was the ultimate goal!


    Nick chuckled. ¡°Aren¡¯t you luckier than her?¡±


    My forehead creased. ¡°Me? Of course not!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so. You are luckier than her. Why? You are now part of the Escarrer family-well not on


    the documents but you are treated like one. And you are close with me.¡± He exined.


    ¡°Oh wait! Is it because of Enrique Schulz that is why you can¡¯t see yourself luckier than her?¡±


    I shook my head. ¡°Of course not. Bing close with Escarrer and Hearst was merely by ident.


    If I did not go to that bar and look for a guy to be the father of my twins, I will not be close to you and


    Ulie.¡±


    ¡°That is what you call fate Ellie.¡±


    Chatting with Nick was not that bad.


    I can¡¯t help but think of Hadley Adelson. Why are they so cool with Escarrer¡¯s decision?


    Then I thought about Enrique Schulz, as per Nick, Enrique was the closest guy to Hadley. Maybe


    they secretly like each other?


    My eyes widen from sudden realization.


    Maybe the reason why they did not do anything about the canceled engagement is that Hadley is in


    love with Enrique. Now that Ulie cancel the wedding, they can now love freely.


    Interesting!


    ***


    ¡°Ellie it¡¯s almost lunchtime now. We need to get ready before Mr. Escarrer and Jace arrived.¡±


    I furrowed. ¡°Do I have a meeting with them?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you that Mr. Escarrer invited us for lunch?¡± She asked.


    ¡°US?¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She nodded. ¡°Oh wait! Do you want to take him for yourself? No worries! Jace and I will just get a


    separate table.¡±


    I was lost.


    ¡°What are you saying? When did you inform me about this lunch meeting?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Silly! This is not a lunch meeting. It¡¯s just a simple lunch, no business involve.¡±


    ¡°And you just tell me this thing now?¡± I asked a bit irritated.


    ¡°It slipped on my mind. Sorry, Ellie. Why? Do you have a lunch date or something?¡±


    I shook my head. ¡°Nothing. Next time, inform this to me ahead of time.¡±


    ¡°Okay. So let¡¯s go?¡±


    When we reach the restaurant, Jace and Luna ask for a separate table. I told her that it''s okay for


    them to join us but Luna still ask for a separate table.


    ¡°When did they be so close?¡± Ulie asked.


    He was referring to Jace and Luna.


    ¡°I have no idea. And even now, I don¡¯t have any idea that we will have lunch together. She just told


    me when it¡¯s already lunchtime.¡± I told him.


    He chuckled. ¡°Really? Jace also invited me just now.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I see! So these two made us their excuse to have a lunch date?¡± I said.


    I just shook my head. ¡°Good thing my lunch with Nick didn¡¯t push through.¡±


    Ulie¡¯s forehead creased. ¡°You have a lunch date with Nick?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not a date Ulie. It¡¯s just a simple lunch.¡±


    ¡°Why do you guys need to have lunch together?¡± He asked in a cold voice.


    ¡°To chat? Just like any normal friends would do.¡± I said.


    Why is he making that a big deal? I mean Nick is a friend. There is nothing wrong with that.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know you guys are close and even considered yourselves as friends.¡± Hemented.


    ¡°Is there any problem with that?¡± I asked him.


    He shrugged. ¡°Nothing.¡±

 Chapter 25 REVELATION

    Chapter 25 REVELATION


    Ulie is clingy these past few days. It all started when I told him that Nick and I are friends.


    I see him in my office every lunchtime, and he will invite me to have lunch with him. I can¡¯t reject him


    because he will always assume that the reason why I am rejecting him is because of Nick.


    One time I have a lunch meeting with someone.


    We are having our breakfast when I inform him about my lunch meeting.


    He said to me. ¡°Are you sure that it''s a business lunch meeting, or you will just meet Nick?¡±


    I rolled my eyes. ¡°Why will I lie to you? I will meet Ms. Hernandez to discuss a potential project with


    them.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure? Why did you set that meeting at lunchtime? I can call her if you want. I will ask her to


    move your meeting to 2 pm.¡±


    My jaw dropped. ¡°Seriously, Ulie, what is happening to you? You were acting like a paranoid


    husband.¡±


    I saw him averting his gaze. ¡°Fine. Let¡¯s have lunch tomorrow then.¡± He said in defeat.


    Aside from invading my lunchtime, he is also invading my phone. He will always ask me who I am


    talking or texting whenever he saw me talking or texting someone.


    I am disturbed by his actions. I decided to talk to him to address the issue.


    After our dinner, I ask him to meet me in my study room.


    ¡°What do you want us to talk about, Ellie?¡± He asked me.


    I looked at him and sighed. ¡°Do we have a problem, Ulie?¡±


    His brow creased. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°You know that you are acting weird these past few days,¡± I told him.


    He sighed aloud. ¡°I don¡¯t know, Ellie. I am bothered by your closeness with Nick.¡±


    ¡°Is there anything wrong with that? Nick is your best friend. Are you saying that I can¡¯t be friends


    with him?¡± I asked.


    He scratches his head. ¡°It¡¯s not like that, Ellie. Maybe I am not used to seeing you being close with


    other guys except me.¡±


    ¡°Maybe I became obsessed with being the only guy in your life.¡± He confessed.


    I didn¡¯t expect him to say that.


    ¡°But he is not any other guy. He is your best friend.¡±


    ¡°I know Ellie. I know what you mean. But still, I can¡¯t help but be possessive of you. And I felt


    scared.¡±


    ¡°Scared? Why?¡± I asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m scared that you may fall in love with Nick. I am afraid to lose Ellie.¡± He said with sincerity.


    ¡°Ellie, I think I already like you.¡± He added.


    My eyes widen. ¡°Are you being serious right now?¡±


    ¡°Do I look like I¡¯m joking to you?¡± He said in a serious expression.


    ¡°Are you even sure that the reason why you are scared to lose me is that you like me?¡±


    He furrowed. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    I sighed. ¡°Ulie, you don¡¯t like me. You just find me as your key to your freedom.¡±


    ¡°What are you saying, Ellie?!¡±


    ¡°I heard you and Nick talking in your office. You are just seeing the twins and me as your way to


    getting out from your arranged marriage with Hadley Adelson.¡± I opened up to him.


    His eyes widen. ¡°Ellie, I can exin.¡±


    I shook my head. ¡°You don¡¯t have to, Ulie. I understand. And I don¡¯t hate you. I¡¯m happy because,


    despite your reason, you have be a great dad to Alistair and Amelia. And you are always there


    for me when I need you. I am thankful for all the things that you did for me and the twins.¡±


    Ulie went to me and held my hand. He still looks bothered. ¡°Maybe I see you and the twins like that


    before. But now, I know that I already have feelings for you.¡±


    I shook my head. ¡°Ulie, stop. You don¡¯t need to force yourself to like me. I am not expecting


    anything from you.¡±


    ¡°And you don¡¯t have to be worried about Nick and me because the person he likes is not me. He


    likes someone else. What we had is pure friendship. You will not lose me to him.¡± I exined to him.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± He asked, still not convinced.


    ¡°Yes. Trust me.¡± I said to assure him.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    He furrowed. ¡°How did you know that he is in love with someone else? I don¡¯t even know that he


    like someone.¡±


    ¡°I just to know by ident.¡±


    It was in Tagaytay when he invites me to have coffee with him.


    shback


    He started to show disgust in Enrique Schulz.


    ¡°Do you have an issue with him? Because I notice how disgusted you are whenever we talk about


    him.¡± I can¡¯t help but ask.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have any issue with him. I just didn¡¯t like the guy.¡± He said.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t like him? Why is that?¡± I curiously asked.


    He sighed aloud.


    ¡°He is so assuming. He acts like Ley¡¯s boyfriend.¡± He said, annoyed.


    My eyes widen. ¡°My guess is right then. They were in love with each other!¡±


    ¡°Of course not!¡± He said with full conviction.


    I was stunned by his reaction. Then an idea popped into my mind.


    I smirked. ¡°Do you like Hadley Adelson?¡±


    I saw him blushed. It¡¯s confirmed!


    ¡°You really like her?! OMG!¡± I can¡¯t help but feel giddy for him and Hadley.


    ¡°What was your reaction than when you found out about her engagement with Ulie?¡± I curiously


    asked.


    It was a love triangle.


    ¡°I was curious about him. That¡¯s why Hearst and Escarrer partnership exist now.¡±


    OMG!!! So that is his main purpose of having a partnership with Ulie. I didn''t expect that he will do


    this just to know his rival.


    Nick is really something. Then I remember his conversation with Ulie. He sounds happy saying


    about the canceled engagement of Ulie. I thought at that time that he was a supportive friend. I


    didn''t expect that he has another agenda.


    ¡°Do you n to be friends with him to convince him to cancel his engagement with Hadley? Or you


    discourage him from liking Hadley?¡±


    He shrugged. ¡°No and no. I did not n to be friends with Ulie. It just happens. I mean, Ulie is a


    nice guy. I was even willing to give way for them. I never discourage him from liking Ley. I even told


    him how great Ley is and how lucky he was to marry her.¡±


    I can¡¯t help but smile at his exnation. That is real love over there! Nick can be so sweet.


    If Hadley can only hear this, I am sure that she will fall for him.


    ¡°Now is your chance to court her. She¡¯s not anymore tied with Ulie!¡± I encourage him.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know yet. Let¡¯s wait and see.¡±


    I can¡¯t believe him! This is his chance to win her heart!


    ¡°But how can you be so sure that Hadley doesn¡¯t like Enrique?¡± I suddenly asked.


    ¡°Because Hadley is in love with Ulie.¡±

 Chapter 26 TWINS PUBLIC APPEARANCE

    Chapter 26 TWINS PUBLIC APPEARANCE


    ¡°Are my babies ready?¡±


    I smile at Ulie as I showed him the twins. Today is their dedication day in the Church and also their


    official appearance to the public (with media).


    ¡°They are so beautiful.¡± Ulie utter as he gives the twins kisses.


    ¡°Of course they are. We are their parents, it¡¯s already given.¡± I confidently said to him.


    He chuckled. ¡°Mommy is getting cocky here. But we can¡¯t deny that she is correct. Right babies?¡±


    The twins giggle as if they understand what we told them.


    I can¡¯t help myself but give those two lots of kisses.


    ¡°Finally you guys are here!¡± Ka said as she went to us the moment our car arrived at the hotel


    parking space.


    The church venue is in the Laertes Hotel ballroom. The church is renting the said room for church


    service.


    ¡°We are not yette Ka. Stop overreacting!¡± Ulie hissed at his sister.


    Ka pouted her lips. ¡°I just miss the twins, brother. Let¡¯s go inside already, everyone is waiting¡±


    She went to me to carry Amelia while I was carrying Alistair.


    Auntie Adel, Uncle Laertes, Luna, Jace, and Nick were already inside the church. I went to Ulie¡¯s


    parents to pay them respect. Luna went to me and carry Alistair, then she went back to her seat


    beside Jace. While Nick is trying to carry Amelia from Ka, but knowing her, she will not give


    Amelia to him.


    Once Ka carries one of the twins, she will not let go of it. I only had a chance to hold my child


    from her when the baby is already hungry. Ka has no choice but to give the baby to me unless


    she can produce her own milk. The twins don¡¯t like form milk.


    ¡°Is the venue for the official public appearance of the twins ready?¡± Uncle Laertes asks Ulie.


    Ulie nodded. ¡°Jace assure me that everything is ready in the grand ballroom.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear because the ceremony will not take long.¡± Uncle Laertes responds.


    In a few minutes, the church service started. After the worship service, the pastor started the


    dedication ceremony.


    Baby dedication service dedicates the baby or babies to God and officially wees the baby to


    church. During the ceremony, the parents also dedicate themselves to raising a child as a Christian.


    The pastor invited us and our babies toe onstage.


    ¡°It is my great joy to introduce you to these newest members of our church family. Alistair Kade


    Escarrer and Amelia Quinn Escarrer are the children of Ulysses Kade Escarrer and Penelope Quinn


    Cabello and were born March 14, 2021. These parents havee today to pledge themselves


    before God and this congregation to raise this child in a way that honors the LORD.¡± The pastor


    said.


    Then, the pastor started to ask us the parental affirmation to God.


    ¡°Do you today recognize these children as the gifts of God and give heartfelt thanks for God¡¯s


    blessing?¡±


    Ulie and I both answer. ¡°We do.¡±


    The pastor ask four more parental affirmations and we both responded ¡°We do.¡±


    In a shorter ceremony, the pastor read a biblical admonition about parenting.


    The pastorys hands on the twins and offers baby dedication prayer.


    ¡°Alistair Kade Escarrer and Amelia Quinn Escarrer, together with your parents, who love you dearly,


    and these people who care about the oue of your faith, I dedicate you to God, surrendering


    together with them all worldly ims upon your life, in the hope that you will belong wholly to God


    forever.¡±


    We returned to our seats and the pastor proceeded to his preaching.


    When the service is finished, everyone went to the grand ballroom on the upper floor. While the


    direct family and friends went to the private room while waiting for the start of the event.


    We have a screen in the room where we see the things happening in the grand ballroom.


    Media were already there, I also saw Laertes and CIC directors and some managers, and of course


    our church mates.


    Jace and Luna were coordinating with the staff and the emcee.


    ¡°Ellie, it¡¯s the time!¡± Luna informed me.


    I nodded to her and told Ulie to get ready. Jace on the other hand informed Ulie¡¯s family and Nick to


    get ready because the event will start now.


    We all went straight to the VIP table.


    The emcee did his opening spiels and then he proceed to introduce the Escarrer family.


    ¡°I would like to thank every one of you here for giving us your precious time for our newest addition


    to the family. We are grateful when our son and Ellie told us the great news, that we were having


    grandchildren!¡± Uncle Laertes started his speech.


    ¡°We can¡¯t describe the happiness and gratefulness that we all felt when we finally saw the twins. We


    thank God for giving us this blessing. They are the joy and treasure of our family.¡±


    ¡°We wanted everything to be perfect for them, but unexpected things happen because of the


    greediness of someone. We wanted their existence to the public to be special. But it came out


    differently or I should say maliciously, which our grandchildren don¡¯t deserve.¡±


    ¡°Now is the perfect time to introduce to you the joy and treasure of Escarrer and Cabello family! I


    like everyone to wee my grandchildren Alistair Kade Escarrer and Penelope Quinn Escarrer!¡±


    The crowd became loud as they wee my children. Nonstop shing of the camera started


    again when Uncle Laertes mentioned my children¡¯s name.


    Ulie and I went to the stage together with the twins. We walk to the center to give them a better view


    of the twins.


    The emcee went to us and did some interviews with us, as the twins¡¯ parents.


    We went back to the VIP table. The screw started to serve the food at every table while the


    programs continue.


    It was a tiring day. We talked to many people like the media, who keeps asking about my


    rtionship status with Ulie, Hadley Adelson was also asked by those people in the media.


    We also entertained the directors and managers in bothpanies.


    I am happy that finally, this event is already over. I just hope that through this event, the media will


    stop wasting their time on my family.


    ¡°You want a massage?¡± Ulie offered after we put the twins in their crib.


    ¡°You know how to do a massage?¡± I asked him.


    He smirks. ¡°Of course.¡±


    ¡°You sound confident. How many girls have you given your service?¡±


    Ulieughed aloud. ¡°Oh Ellie, your jealousy is making me tter.¡±


    My eyes widen. ¡°I¡¯m not jealous. You are so full of yourself!¡±


    ¡°You keep mentioning girls in our conversation. So what do you want me to think?¡±


    ¡°I was just curious okay?! How can you be good in giving massage if you have no one to do it.¡± I


    said in my defense.


    ¡°Fine. But just to inform you, my message is only exclusive to family members of Escarrer.¡± He said.


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    I pouted my lips. ¡°Then why did you offer me your massage service? I¡¯m not an Escarrer.¡±


    ¡°You are already an Escarrer, Ellie.¡± He said.


    ¡°And you will officially be an Escarrer soon.¡± He added in a whisper.


    I did not hear hisst sentence clearly.

 Chapter 27 DOUBTS

    Chapter 27 DOUBTS


    Time flies so fast. Many unexpected things happened. Who would have thought that my n of


    having someone to be with wille to this?


    I only want to have a child of my own, but God gave me more. He gave me a great partner-not


    romantically, but he can still be considered as family. Ulysses is a great dad to my soon-to-be five


    years old twin. Aside from Ulie, God gave me his family. It¡¯s like a package deal.


    I couldn¡¯t ask for more. I am very contented with my life right now, not to mention how mypany


    grew for the past five years. We are now one of the in-demand architecture and engineering


    companies.


    Ourpany starts receiving clients abroad. My parent''s vision for thepany is now happening.


    I am sure that they are happy with all thepany¡¯s achievements.


    Speaking of international clients, we are currently waiting for Mr. Schulz of Schulz Technologies.


    Schulz Technologies are nning to have their office building here in the country.


    Most international clients, especially in ITpanies, are only renting floors to set as their office


    since their main office is located outside the country. It was more cost-efficient on their part.


    Schulz Tech also has other offices nationwide. However, I am not yet sure if they were nning to


    have their own building office in their other offices or just here in Man.


    ¡°Ms. Cabello?¡±


    I look at the guy who called my name. I smiled and nodded at him.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m Penelope Quinn Cabello, CEO of Cabello International Corporation.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Harold Ortaleza, the CEO¡¯s secretary of Schulz Tech here in the Philippines. And here with me


    is our CEO, Mr. Enrique Schulz.¡±


    He extended his hand for a handshake. I dly ept it, and then I offered a handshake to Mr.


    Schulz, which he obliged to ept.


    ¡°She¡¯s my secretary, Ms. Luna Bianca Nielis, and our head Engineer Mr. Dominic Rosales and head


    architect Ms. Lorie Belle Garcia.¡±


    After the introduction, we proceed to the conference room and start the meeting.


    This is another big project. It is as big as the LHI Resort Project we did five years ago. I was


    surprised when Mr. Ortaleza contacted me about this project. It only proves that ourpany is


    making a name not just here in the country but also in other countries.


    They showed us thend that they had newly acquired. It was located in Taguig. Thend was


    ample. I am sure that if this project leaks to the media, it will be another talk of the town. Many


    people will anticipate this project.


    ¡°We want this building to be as grand as our main office in the States.¡± Mr. Schulz said.


    I nodded. It makes me more excited to start the design of this project. It was one of my dreams to


    do a unique and high-tech design. Most of our projects for the past years were hotels, resorts,


    restaurants, and mansions. It was our first time doing this kind of project, and I can¡¯t wait for it to


    start.


    ¡°I guess we were all clear about the requirements of this project. I have seen your project with LHI


    and Hearst, and I must say that I¡¯m impressed that¡¯s why I am expecting a lot from your team.¡± Mr.


    Schulz said in a formal voice.


    I smiled at him. ¡°I will not disappoint you. And thank you for trusting ourpany.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear. But I hope you don¡¯t get too confident because I made myself clear that this


    meeting is not considered a close deal yet. Getting anotherpany is still in our option if we are


    not happy with your design.¡±


    ¡°I understand, Mr. Schulz. We will do our best to close this deal.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡±


    After a few discussions, the meeting ended well. The contract will be given once they approved our


    design. They made it very clear that providing this opportunity for us to design for them is not an


    assurance that we will get this project. Acquiring anotherpany for this project is still on their


    option. What we need to do is give our best to close this dealpletely.


    ***


    ¡°That was hot!¡± Lorie eximed.


    After the meeting, we went back to our office and had an initial discussion on this project.


    ¡°You mean Mr. Schulz is so hot!¡±


    Luna and Lorie start to giggle. I just shook my head. These girls are like that whenever we met a


    handsome client.


    Though, I can¡¯t deny their ims. Mr. Schulz is genuinely a handsome guy. He¡¯s a cold and serious


    type of boss, which made him hotter. I smiled to myself when Ulie popped into my mind. I am sure


    that he will throw tantrums if he heard me say this.


    ¡°We must get this project, Ms. Cabello! I can¡¯t wait to see him again!¡± Lorie said inplete


    determination.


    ¡°Yes, of course! I will not miss this for the world.¡±


    Luna then went to me with a malicious stare. ¡°What do you think of Mr. Schulz, Ellie?¡±


    I just shrugged. ¡°Yes, I can¡¯t deny it. He is hot but-¡°


    I was not able to finish my statement because Luna cut me off.


    ¡°But Ulie is much hotter than him! We know what you will say, Ellie!¡± Then she rolled her eyes.


    My eyes widen. ¡°Of course not. What I was about to say is that, yes, he is hot, but I am not into hot


    guys right now. I am contented with my children.¡±


    ¡°Yes, you are contented with your kids and ULIE. I know Ellie.¡± Luna said she even emphasize


    Ulie¡¯s name.


    ¡°Whatever, Luna! You and your delusion!¡±


    ***


    Weekend came. We are here at the Escarrer Mansion. Aside from Ulie¡¯s family requesting us to visit


    them every weekend, the twins also wanted to see their grandparents every weekend because they


    spoiled them a lot.


    ¡°The twins will turn five in two months. Do you have any n?¡± Ka ask me.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to throw a big celebration for their birthday. I want it to be as intimate as possible.¡± I


    told Ka my ns.


    Ulie and I became so busy these past months. We want to make their birthday our opportunity to


    spend quality time together.


    Ulie bought a private Ind. We were the ones who did the renovation of the ind. He named it


    Kade Quinn Ind. He wanted it to be named after our twins and also ours.


    Ulysses changed so much after we had the twins. He was still yful and naughty, but he became a


    family man. I have barely seen him going out at night-his only exception was if the event or party is


    rted to business, then that is the time he will go to parties.


    I have never seen him date any girls for the past five or six years. It was as if the twins are enough


    for him. I ask him one time about this.


    ¡°Ulie, I have never seen you going out with other girls these past years. Don¡¯t you want to date


    anymore?¡±


    He looks at me intently. ¡°Do you want to?¡±


    I furrowed. ¡°Why are you asking me that?¡±


    ¡°Because I will only consider to date someone if it¡¯s you.¡±


    I felt a strange sensation in my stomach. ¡°Why? If it''s because of the twins, Ulie, please don¡¯t do


    that.¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Do you think that it was only because of them?¡±


    I wasn¡¯t able to answer. I feel very weird, and I can¡¯t think of anything right now.


    ¡°You still don¡¯t believe that I already like you.¡± He concluded.


    ¡°You are not part of my n,¡± I told him my usual answer.


    ¡°I was never part of your n; I know that, Ellie. But can¡¯t you see, us being together now, my family


    and the twins carrying Escarrer¡¯s surname, was also not part of your n, but we are all happy


    about it. Why can¡¯t you ept my feelings?¡±


    Because there is a part of me that doubts your feelings for me, I can¡¯t forget the conversation you


    had with Nick. I am scared that all of these were just lies.- This was the answer I want to tell him,


    but I just chose not to answer him.

 Chapter 28 QUEN AND ULIE’S FRIENDSHIP

    Chapter 28 QUEN AND ULIE¡¯S FRIENDSHIP


    ¡°I heard that you had a meeting with Mr. Schulz?¡±


    I smiled and nodded at uncle Laertes. ¡°Yes, Uncle. They are nning to have Schulz Tech''s first


    office building here in the Philippines.¡±


    We are currently eating our dinner together as a family.


    ¡°I assume that you already close the deal.¡±


    ¡°I haven''t closed the deal yet, but I will am confident that I will,¡± I said confidently.


    I am confident to say this because I know my capability and my subordinates as well. We proved


    that already for the past years.


    ¡°What happened, Ellie? What''s stopping them from giving you the deal?¡± Ka curiously asks.


    ¡°Nothing happens, Ka, don¡¯t worry. It''s just that they wanted to see our design first before signing


    a contract with us, which is the standard in this industry. The client has the right to look for another


    Architect if they are not happy with the building design.¡±


    Ka looks irritated, which made me confused. ¡°That Quen is demanding! He always acts as if he


    was a king or something. Ugh!¡±


    ¡°Quen?¡±


    ¡°Quen is Enrique Schulz,¡± Ulie answered.


    ¡°Are you close with him, Ka?¡± I curiously ask.


    She rolled her eyes. ¡°Of course not! He was my brother¡¯s former best friend.¡±


    I face Ulie. ¡°Former best friend? You didn''t tell me about him.¡±


    Ulie never mentioned Enrique Schulz. He knew that I would have a meeting with him, and he said


    nothing.


    ¡°I did not tell you because it''s not a big deal.¡±


    I feel a bit hurt because he failed to tell me about his friendship with Mr. Schulz, though he is not


    obliged to say to me everything about him.


    ¡°Are you angry, Ellie? I''m sorry if I did not tell you about him.¡±


    I smile at him to hide my disappointment. ¡°I¡¯m not angry, Ulie. Why will I? Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t fight over that guy. It''s worth a fight.¡± Ka said, still irritated


    ¡°Do you like that guy, auntie?¡± My son Alistair asks.


    My eyes widen. My son is brilliant; he noticed it right away.


    ¡°Is that true, Ka? You like Mr. Schulz?¡± I said in a teasing tone.


    The twins are murmuring with each other. Ka, on the other hand, blushed.


    ¡°Of course not! Why will I like that arrogant guy?!¡± Ka denied the usation.


    ¡°Auntie, you are so obvious. You are flushing right now.¡± Ameliamented.


    ¡°I am not!¡±


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    The twins chuckled. ¡°You are!¡± The twin said to tease their aunt more.


    I just shook my head. The twins are starting their bullying stunt with their aunt again. They know


    Ka well that is why they know how to bully her well.


    But despite their bullying, I know that they love their aunt so much. I have seen them when they


    found out that someone wants to pursue Ka. They ask for my permission to spend a night in the


    mansion because her aunt told them that the guy would visit her to court her formally.


    The twins were on Ka¡¯s side the whole time when the guy visited her. They didn''t leave those two


    alone.


    They will ask him many things to torture the guy and then tantly tell the guy¡¯s face that they don''t


    like him for their aunt. And that scheme didn''t happen once; they do that every time a guy will try to


    court their aunt.


    ¡°Alistair, Amelia, stop bullying your aunt,¡± I warned them before they torture Ka more.


    Ka mouthed, thank you to me. I smile at her. She is a very strong woman, but she can¡¯t do


    anything when ites to the twin.


    ***


    ¡°Mom, Dad, can you sleep with us tonight?¡± Amelia asks in her sweet voice.


    I nodded. How can I say no to that? We went straight to Ulie¡¯s bedroom. Whenever the twins ask us


    to sleep with them, we sleep in Ulie¡¯s room here in the Escarrer mansion while we sleep in my


    bedroom when we are in the penthouse.


    They usually request us to sleep together whenever Ulie and I became very busy with work.


    ¡°Mom, you also think that Aunt Ka likes that guy, right?¡± Amelia ask.


    We were already in bed. The twins are in the center while I sleep beside Amelia and Ulie sleeps


    beside Alistair.


    ¡°I am not sure. I never saw Ka and Mr. Schulz together.¡±


    Amelia looks at his father. ¡°What about you, dad?¡±


    ¡°I don''t think so. What I know is that they don''t like each other. They often quarrel. They never


    agreed on anything. They are like oil and water.¡±


    ¡°But I think aunt Ka likes him. She was just in denial.¡± Alistair murmur.


    My forehead creased. ¡°Alistair, howe you know these things? You are too young for this.¡±


    ¡°I am not. I''m already five years old, mommy. I''m a big boy now.¡± My son is starting to throw a


    tantrum.


    I got up and kissed Alistair.


    ¡°You are still a baby. My baby. Don¡¯t grow up too fast.¡± I said in a gentle voice.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you like your aunt to have a boyfriend? You are constantly torturing her suitors. If you always


    do that, she will be an old maid.¡± I exined to them.


    ¡°That is okay, mommy. I will be with auntie when the timees.¡± Alistair said.


    I chuckled and gave him another kiss. My baby is so cute.


    ¡°Alistair, you are aware that you can¡¯t have a crush on your aunt, right?¡± I tease him.


    He blushed. ¡°I don¡¯t have a crush on Aunt Ka.¡±


    I justughed and hugged him together with Amelia. I felt a warm arm around the twins and me. It


    was Ulie.


    When the twins fell asleep, I called Ulie. I ask him if we could go out for a while and have a talk.


    We went to his room¡¯s veranda.


    ¡°Something is bothering you?¡±


    I shake my head. ¡°No, it''s not that. I''m just curious what happened between you and Mr. Schulz?


    But it''s OK if you don''t want to tell me. I will understand.¡±


    He went to me and put his coat on my shoulder. ¡°It''s cold here. You might catch a cold.¡±


    He sighed. ¡°Before I answer that, I would like to apologize to you because I did not tell you about


    Quen and me.¡±


    ¡°Quen was living in Spain when he was a kid. We met when we¡¯re in middle school and became


    ssmates. We got close because we have a lot of things inmon.¡±


    ¡°When college came, he wanted to study in the US because he was interested in technology. While


    my parents want me to study here in the Philippines to know more about the culture here and


    around Asia because they are expanding the business here.¡±


    ¡°You grow apart. That is why you are not a best friend anymore?¡±


    He shakes his head. ¡°No, that is not the reason. We were still close even though we were eight


    thousand miles apart.¡±


    ¡°So what happens? Is it because of Nick?¡±


    He chuckled then pinched my nose. ¡°It¡¯s not that, silly. It¡¯s because of Hadley Adelson.¡±


    My eyes widen. I remember now. Mr. Schulz likes Hadley Adelson. Everything makes sense now.

 Chapter 29 Curiosity

    Chapter 29 Curiosity


    My interest in Hadley Adelson started when Nick told me about her, how he became close with Ulie


    because of her. After I talked with Ulie about his friendship with Mr. Schulz, my interest in Hadley


    grew. I suddenly wonder, does Ulie like Hadley Adelson too?


    I could not ask him to borate on why his friendship with Mr. Schulz was ruined because of Hadley


    Adelson. After he told me that Hadley is the reason why their friendship was over, Amelia woke up


    and she was looking for us. We had no choice but to finish our conversation and go to Amelia to get


    her back to sleep.


    If I am not mistaken, Ulie wanted to cancel the wedding, and I don¡¯t see why Mr. Schulz will get


    angry with Ulie. Unless Ulie also has a feeling with Hadley Adelson, he had no choice but to let her


    go because of his friendship with Mr. Schulz.


    I remember Nick told me that Hadley is in love with Ulie. Maybe, that¡¯s the reason why Ulie¡¯s


    friendship with Mr. Schulz is over. Well, all of these were all my assumptions. Nothing is confirmed


    yet.


    I was back from deep thinking when I heard Ka¡¯s voice.


    ¡°Penny, for your thought, sis?¡±


    I smiled at her. ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±


    She went to me and sat beside me. ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    I sighed. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I just got curious about Mr. Schulz.¡±


    Her forehead creased. ¡°Why do you think about him?¡± Then her eyes widen. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me; you like


    that jerk?¡±


    Iughed aloud. ¡°Is that a joke?¡±


    Her eyes darted at me. ¡°Do I look like I¡¯m joking? If you don¡¯t like him, then why do you think about


    him?¡±


    ¡°Why do you look so affected? Wait¡­ Don¡¯t tell me you are jealous?¡±


    She flinched. ¡°Of course not! Why will I like that cocky jerk?!¡±


    ¡°Then why are you so affected?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ It¡¯s because of my brother¡­ Yes, that¡¯s right, because of my brother.¡±


    I rolled my eyes. ¡°You are so obvious, Ka.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°You like Mr. Schulz. Even the twins notice it. There¡¯s no reason for you to deny it. Your reaction


    betrayed you.¡±


    ¡°What? No! Believe me, Ellie, I don¡¯t like that guy! He is so arrogant and full of himself. He feels like


    he was the most handsome guy in the world! Why will I like him?!¡± She still denied it.


    ¡°Whatever, Ka!¡±


    ¡°Argh! You are changing the subject. I was the one who asks first. Why are you thinking of him?¡±


    She asks instead.


    I sighed aloud. ¡°I¡¯m curious about what happens to Ulie and Mr. Schulz''s friendship. Ulie said that it


    was because of Hadley Adelson, but he didn¡¯t borate on it. Did they fight because they both like


    her?¡±


    Ka rolled her eyes. ¡°Brother didn¡¯t like Hadley Adelson. If he likes her, he will not make you


    pregnant.¡±


    ¡°How can you be so sure?¡± I asked.


    Ka looks at me intently. ¡°If my brother likes someone, he will not flirt with other girls. He will


    remain loyal to that girl. Just like now.¡± She said in a serious voice.


    I averted from her gaze. I¡¯m notfortable with her speech.


    ¡°Then why Ulie told me that Hadley Adelson was the reason why their friendship was over?¡± I ask


    instead.


    ¡°Because Quen likes Hadley while Hadley likes my brother. It was her who ask her parents to


    arrange her marriage with my brother.¡± She exined.


    My eyes widen from her revtion. So it was her who wanted to marry Ulie. But why did she not do


    anything when Ulie cancels their wedding.


    Ka seems like she read what¡¯s on my mind. ¡°I think the reason why Hadley did nothing when my


    brother cancels their engagement is that even though you already have kids, my brother didn¡¯t


    marry you. I think that gave herfort and hope, that she still has a chance on my brother.¡±


    ***


    My conversation with Ka got me more curious about Ulie, Mr. Schulz, and Hadley.


    I set aside my curiosity about them in the meantime because now is my quality time with the twins.


    No matter how busy I am with my work, I always have quality time with the twins. Quality time


    means all my focus is on the twins, no work, no phones, no other thoughts. In that way, the twins


    will not feel neglected despite my busy schedule. This is how my parents treated me when I was a


    kid, which was my best memory of my younger years.


    ¡°Mom, can we invite our friends on our birthday?¡± Alistair ask.


    I smiled at him while caressing his face. ¡°Of course, honey, as long as their parents will allow them


    toe with us. They can also invite their parents if they want to.¡±


    Alistair''s eyes twinkle. ¡°Really, mommy? Yes! I always tell my friends about our Ind. They also


    want to see it.¡±


    ¡°Mom, can I do that too?¡± Amelia ask.


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you are nning to invite Cassie?¡± Alistair to his twin.


    ¡°Of course, I will invite Cassie. She is my best friend!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t like that girl. She always fights me.¡±


    ¡°Because you keep on teasing her!¡±


    ¡°Because she¡¯s ignoring me!¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s ignoring you because you are ugly!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not ugly! If I¡¯m ugly, then you are also ugly! We are twins remember?¡±


    ¡°Yes, we are twins, but we don¡¯t look alike.¡±


    Alistair looks at his twin intently. ¡°Are you saying that mom is ugly because I look like her?!¡±


    Amelia''s eyes widen. She went to me and hugged me. I chuckled.


    ¡°Of course not! Mommy is the most beautiful girl in the world.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯m not ugly because I look like mom.¡±


    ¡°But you are a boy, and mom is a girl, that¡¯s the difference. So you are still ugly!¡±


    Alistair looks at me with teary eyes. ¡°Mom, am I ugly?¡±


    I went to my baby boy and hugged him. ¡°Of course not, honey. You are the most handsome man in


    the world.¡±


    ¡°More handsome than daddy?¡± He asks innocently.


    ¡°Absolutely!¡± I said.


    ¡°No, mommy! Dad is the most handsome in the world, and Alistair is ugly!¡±


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Amelia Quinn, stop saying that to your brother,¡± I said in a warning tone.


    ¡°But it¡¯s true!¡± Then Amelia cried and went out of the room.


    I am sure that she will go to her dad. True enough, after a few minutes, she went back with her dad


    carrying her.


    ¡°What happened, Ellie? Why Amelia is crying?¡± Ulie asks, looking concerned.


    I sighed. ¡°Ask your daughter.¡±


    Ulie looks at Amelia and asks her. ¡°What happened, baby? Why are you crying?¡±


    ¡°Mom scolded me for telling my brother that he is ugly. Mom said that Alistair is more handsome


    than you and Alistair is the most handsome ma in the world. Mom is lying, daddy! You are the most


    handsome man in the world, and Alistair is not handsome; he is ugly!¡± Amelia said, then she pouted


    her lips.


    I shook my head. Why did she think that his brother is ugly? My son is way too handsome to be


    called ugly.


    ¡°Baby, that is not right to say. We are all carefully and wonderfully made by God. You can¡¯t call your


    brother ugly. Your brother is more handsome than me because he resembles your mom, and your


    mom is the most beautiful girl in the world. That is what makes your brother the most handsome guy


    in the world. Do you understand?¡±


    ¡°But daddy!¡±


    ¡°Are you saying that God made a mistake when he created your twin brother?¡±


    Amelia wasn''t able to answer. I smiled, knowing that Amelia got the message from his dad.


    ¡°Now, you need to apologize to your brother for calling him ugly,¡± Ulie said in a gentle voice.


    Ulie put her down so that she can go to her twin brother.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ali, for calling you ugly.¡±


    Alistair epted his twin¡¯s apology and hugged her. Then Amelia went to me and hugged me too.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for my attitude a while ago, mommy.¡±


    ¡°No worries, honey. As long as you acknowledge your mistake.¡± I said while hugging her back.

 Chapter 30 NICK & QUEN

    Chapter 30 NICK & QUEN


    In a few weeks, my twins will turn five. We all agreed that we will celebrate the twins¡¯ birthday in


    Kade Quinn Ind along. We invited some family friends like Nick, Luna, and Jace. The twins


    invited their close friends, some of them are with their parents, some are with their nannies.


    The preparation for the twins¡¯ birthday is done. I ask Ka for some help in managing the said party


    because I want to focus on my presentation with Mr. Schulz. My team and I are now having


    overtime to make sure that our presentation with Mr. Schulz tomorrow will be perfect.


    When I reach home, the twins are already asleep. I watch them sleep peacefully for a few minutes,


    then I kiss them and whisper to them good night. I was about to go to my room when I saw Ulie


    come out of his room.


    ¡°You just got home?¡± He asked.


    I nodded at him. ¡°Yes. We reviewed our presentation for tomorrow. We want to make sure that we


    are not missing anything. We want it to be perfect.¡±


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    He went to me and hugged me. ¡°I¡¯m sure that you will get this deal. Quen might be arrogant but he


    was fair went ites to business.¡±


    ¡°Why? You think he has something against me?¡± I ask curiously.


    I was trying to remove his hand that¡¯s still hugging me, but he just hugs me tighter. I just let him be.


    ¡°I don¡¯t mean it like that. I just want to say that I¡¯m sure you will get this deal because Quen is a fair


    businessman. He is not the type of person that is looking on the background, but on the skills and


    potential of a person or business.¡± Ulie exined himself.


    ¡°He seems like a great guy.¡±


    ¡°He is.¡±


    I smiled, it¡¯s his first timeplementing a guy. He didn¡¯tplement Nick this way.


    ¡°You miss him?¡± I suddenly ask.


    Finally, Ulie releases me from his hug. He flinched when I told him he misses him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t even try to deny it. You neverplimented a guy when you are with me.¡±


    He sighed aloud. ¡°I guess, I did.¡±


    ***


    This is it!


    I can feel the nervousness of my team as we are waiting for Mr. Schulz in his conference room.


    A momentter, Mr. Ortaleza went inside the conference room along with Mr. Schulz and some


    other executives.


    We did the usual introduction. Then we proceed with the presentation. I will be the one who will


    present our design draft for Schulz Tech.


    ¡°The creation of the first Schulz Tech office building here in the Philippines recognizes itspany


    status as a global technology leader. This office building has an initial 1,500 Schulz Tech employees


    and is expected to continue to grow.¡± I started my speech.


    ¡°We made a two distinct office building that linked by a central reception and created a new gateway


    development into Schulz Tech building; two decked parking areas for cars and bicycles are also


    provided. Tailored to Schulz Tech¡¯s identity as the world-leading ITpany the building is inspired


    by the structure of silicon.¡±


    ¡°The interior design carries the silicon themes into every detail; focused working zones are


    separated, with crisp zed partitions allowing visible connectivity across all spaces, whilst the


    coborative areas break down the rectilinear forms into the ¡®diamond¡¯ areas, a focus for the


    exchange of ideas and concepts at the end of each office wing. The design detail permeates


    through to every element, including such details as the bespoke crystalline door handles.¡±


    I showed them other areas and a blueprint of our design. After I end my presentation, the


    executives begin to ask questions about my presentation.


    So far, all the feedback that we got from them was positive. We are now waiting for Mr. Schulz''s


    feedback.


    ¡°I like the design except for one thing. I want to revise the cafeteria. I am well aware that you work


    with them on several projects. I am also aware that they are the exclusive partner of LHI. But don¡¯t


    assume that I would want Hearst to be in mypany.¡± He said in a cold voice.


    I was shocked by his feedback. But he was right, I was habituated to Hearst Restaurant Group that I


    unconsciously did the cafeteria based on Hearst standard.


    ¡°Gave me the revised design before we proceed in signing our contract.¡±


    Our eyes widen by hisst statement. We got the deal!!!


    ***


    After we met with Schulz Tech, my team decided to celebrate since we got the deal. We went to


    Hearst Restaurant near the Schulz tech office.


    ¡°I thought that we will not get this deal because of hisment on the cafeteria. It was such a huge


    relief that he still likes our work.¡± Belle couldn¡¯t hide her excitement.


    Among us all, Belle was the most eager in wanting to get this deal. It was so obvious that she had a


    crush on him.


    ¡°Agree. But is there something going on between Mr. Schulz and Nick?¡± Luna can¡¯t help but be


    curious.


    I can¡¯t me her, because I am also intrigued because of his statement. Is it because Nick reced


    him as Ulie¡¯s best friend? Or because Nick also likes Hadley Adelson?


    ¡°It seems like it. I mean, with that kind of statement, I¡¯m pretty sure something is going on between


    them.¡± Belle agreed on Luna.


    Luna then faced me. ¡°How about you Ellie? What do you think?¡±


    I just shrugged. ¡°It¡¯s better for us not to know. I mean, it¡¯s none of our business. It¡¯s not good


    gossiping about your client you know.¡±


    The two pouted their lips because of my statement.


    ¡°Ellie!¡±


    I look at the guy who called my name. ¡°Nick! What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°Is it weird to see me in my restaurant?¡± Then he chuckled.


    I rolled my eyes. ¡°Whatever Nick!¡±


    ¡°Why are guys here?¡± He asked.


    ¡°We are just celebrating for closing our deal with Schulz Tech,¡± Luna answered him.


    ¡°Oh! Congrats!¡± He just said.


    ¡°Is there something going on between you and Mr. Schulz?¡± Luna can¡¯t help but ask.


    Luna can be a sessful reporter if she wanted to. She¡¯s good at gossiping.


    ¡°Why did you ask?¡±


    Nick seated on the chair next to me and order more food. After he was done with his order, Luna


    started to tell him about what happened in our presentation with Mr. Schulz.


    ¡°He really said that?¡±


    Belle and Luna nodded at him and patiently waited for his reaction.


    ¡°Well, the feeling is mutual. I never had a n on doing business with him.¡±

 Chapter 31 TWINS’ BIRTHDAY

    Chapter 31 TWINS¡¯ BIRTHDAY


    Today is the twins¡¯ 5th birthday. Most of the guests were amazed by the scenery of the ind. I feel


    proud whenever I hearpliments about the ind, especially when they start talking about the


    vis and suites of the ind.


    ¡°Who¡¯s the architect of this ind?¡± Elena, Cassie¡¯s mom asked.


    ¡°This ind was designed and built by Cabello International Corp,¡± Ulie answered.


    Elena face me and started to give mepliments. ¡°I also have an ind but not as big as this, it


    was a gift from my husband. Can I hire yourpany to renovate my ind?¡±


    ¡°Of course, I would love to.¡±


    Elena handed me her business card. ¡°Here¡¯s my business card. I¡¯m sorry, I know this was


    supposedly a vacation to you, but I can¡¯t help it. I¡¯m really amazed by your work now that I am


    seeing the actual product.¡±


    ¡°No worries. I will ask my secretary to contact you and set a meeting with you once we are back in


    Man.¡±


    Aside from Elena, other parents ask me to work with them. Some want me to renovate their rest


    house, and private resorts. Inviting the twins¡¯ parents is not bad after all. I somehow build a


    connection with them and most importantly I got instant projects. I would love to have this kind of


    event in the future.


    All the guests were sent to their respective vi to rest. Jace, Nick, and Luna were assigned to the


    one-bedroom vi since they came alone. While the twins¡¯ ssmates were assigned to the two-


    bedroom vi since they came either with their parents or nannies.


    The party will start at lunchtime so that the guests can have enough time to explore the ind.


    We stay at the grand vi with the Escarrer family. This vi is obviously thergest on this ind.


    It¡¯s a two-story, three-bedroom vi. It also has a rooftop terrace and arge private pool within the


    enormous tropical garden.


    The interior space is generous, airy, and mellow with warm and natural colors. The vi will give you


    amazing views from the tropical garden to the pristine white beach. And when the night falls, you


    will see the maic amber glow of sunset.


    The Escarrer couple will stay in the master¡¯s bedroom, Ka and I will be sharing a room, Ulie will


    share a room with the twins. Though, I¡¯m pretty sure that the twins will ask me to join them in their


    bedroom.


    We inform everyone that the party will be held in the ind¡¯s restaurant. The chefs of this restaurant


    were all from Nick¡¯s restaurant. They were on-call whenever we have a gathering or even just a


    vacation here on the ind.


    Ka and Luna made a small program for the celebrants. They invited a clown to entertain the kids.


    All were enjoying themselves as they participate in the games made by the clown. They were


    amazed when the clown showed them some magic tricks.


    Alistair is obviously looking for the loophole of the magic trick. He looks frustrated because he can¡¯t


    find one. The magician notice him, and he made him more frustrated by asking him to volunteer and


    see the magic closely.


    While the kids were enjoying themselves at the party, Ulie and I were having a good chat with their


    parents.


    ¡°I must say that you both raise your kids well. But are you still not considering getting married for the


    kid¡¯s sake?¡± Elena asked.


    I awkwardly smiled at her. We can¡¯t really stop the people to pry about the rtionship that Ulie and


    I had.


    ¡°We are contented with our rtionship now. As you said a while ago, we were able to raise them


    well, even though we are not in a rtionship.¡± I just said.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for prying, I can¡¯t help it because you guys look so good together,¡± Elena added.


    ¡°We will get there. There¡¯s no need in rushing things.¡± Ulie was the one who answered.


    ¡°Well, I hope you two will end up together. I¡¯m sure that the kids will be the happiest when it


    happened.¡±


    I just smiled at Elena and did not answer more. I just felt like if I answer her she will not end this


    topic.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I never heard of you being linked to anyone other than Ulie. Have you ever been in love before


    Ulie?¡± Elena curiously asks.


    ¡°I thought before that I will never fall in love with someone, but 5 years ago, I was reminded of


    someone I used to like.¡± I shared it with them.


    Ulie furrowed. He looked shocked and curious at the same time. I never told him about it.


    Everyone didn¡¯t say a word. All of them were waiting for me to continue my speech.


    ¡°He was my ssmate when I was in college. I was naive and a hopeless romantic girl. He was a


    typical boy next door. He was a sweet, smart, and handsome guy.¡±


    ¡°We were always partners in school activities. That¡¯s why we became close. We were so close to


    the point that people assumed that we are a couple.¡±


    ¡°I fell in love because of how he treated me at that time. He will make me feel that I am special


    among the other girls. Then he kiss me and I kissed him back. I thought that we are on the same


    page but were not.¡±


    ¡°Why? What happen?¡± Elena can¡¯t help but ask.


    I sighed aloud then continue with my story. ¡°When I saw him getting close with other girls, I felt


    jealous and I confronted him. And I was shocked with his reply.¡±


    They all look immersed in my story.


    ¡°He told me that I shouldn¡¯t be jealous because we are just friends,¡± I told them.


    ¡°What a jerk!¡± Janice can¡¯t help but express her thoughts. Janice was the mom of Daniel, Alistair¡¯s


    best friend.


    I just smiled at her. ¡°I agree with you. I told him, ¡®friends don¡¯t kiss¡¯ and he nonchntly replied


    ¡®friends do kiss. We kiss but we¡¯re just friends.¡¯ After that, I avoided him and ask my parents to


    transfer me to another university.¡±


    ***


    As I expected, Amelia and Alistair ask me to join them to sleep. Due to today¡¯s event, the twins


    easily fell asleep after their shower. They look exhausted.


    I was done with my night skincare routine when I saw Ulie in the room¡¯s veranda. I went to him to


    invite him to sleep.


    ¡°Ellie you never told me about him.¡±


    I frowned. ¡°Who are you referring to?¡±


    ¡°Your first love!¡± He said with disgust.


    I chuckled. ¡°I don¡¯t see any reason why I need to tell you about him. I almost forgot about him.¡±


    ¡°But you remembered him. You said it was five years ago. We already have the twins at that time.


    Why do you suddenly think of him?¡±


    ¡°It was unintentional Ulie. I didn¡¯t recognize him when I first saw him. He looks kind of different now


    than when we were in college.¡±


    He gasped. ¡°You saw him! In-person! Did your feelings go back when you saw him? Tell me, Ellie!¡±


    ¡°It did not.¡±


    ¡°How can you be so sure? What if he told you that he was in love with you? What will you do?¡±


    ¡°Nothing. I will never let myself fall in love with someone like him, even if he told me he liked me. I


    will never fall for him twice.¡± I said in a cold voice.

 Chapter 32 MINE

    Chapter 32 MINE


    ¡°Nothing. I will never let myself fall in love with someone like him, even if he told me he liked me. I


    will never fall for him twice.¡±


    I feel weird. I know I should feel at ease now that Ellie is assuring me that she is done with the guy


    she once fell in love with. But instead, I feel scared without knowing the reason why I am feeling this


    way.


    ¡°Hey, dude! Are you okay?¡±


    I looked at Nick who was seating beside me. I called him to join me for a drink. I feel like I needed it.


    There¡¯s a lot of things going on in my mind.


    ¡°I just feel weird.¡±


    ¡°Is it because of Ellie¡¯s first love?¡±


    I frowned. First, love my ass. Nick chuckled. He knew I didn¡¯t like what he said.


    ¡°Why are you frowning? It¡¯s true. Or you prefer it as Ellie¡¯s only love?¡± Then heughs aloud.


    I was close to punching him, I just clenched my jaw. Who the heck is that guy anyway?!


    ¡°Kidding aside, I know I¡¯m right. Ellie is the reason why you called me thiste to have a drink.¡± Nick


    said in a serious voice.


    I heaved a sigh. ¡°Ellie assured me that even though the guy came back and confess to her, she will


    not fall for that guy again.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the problem then?¡±


    I shook my head. ¡°I know I should feel at ease but it was the opposite. For some reason, I feel


    scared when she told me that.¡±


    ¡°Huh?! That¡¯s weird indeed. It¡¯s as if you are telling yourself that you want Ellie to fall again to that


    guy. Is that your way to distance yourself from her?¡±


    ¡°What?! Of course not! I will never let any guy steal Ellie from me.¡± I said with full conviction.


    ¡°I know because it¡¯s obvious that you already fell for her. I¡¯m just wondering why aren¡¯t you doing


    any move on her? Are you that confident that Ellie will not be stolen by another guy?¡± He asked in a


    serious tone.


    I look at Nick, he looks serious and curious at the same time.


    ¡°I told her I like her so many times.¡±


    ¡°And then?¡± He asked a bit impatient.


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t want to believe me. It happens that she heard our conversation in my office.¡±


    His forehead creased seems like he doesn¡¯t remember it anymore.


    ¡°Remember when we had your first meeting with them for the LHI project? We talked in my office


    about her pregnancy and my canceled engagement.¡±


    shback


    ¡°You finally got away with your wedding,¡± Nick said.


    ¡°Yes! Finally! I didn''t expect that I will be thankful that I got someone pregnant. Because of her


    pregnancy, I finally got rid of Hadley Adelson.¡±


    I am always careful whenever I do a one-night stand because I know that some girls will do


    everything to entrap me and demand marriage. But for some reason, I let myself unguarded with


    her. It¡¯s as if everything is fine if it¡¯s her. I don¡¯t mind her owning me.


    When I first saw her that night in a club, I find myself going to her. I saw many guys try to approach


    her, for some reason I wanted her to reject them and she did.


    Then when I approached her, I feel like I¡¯m finally home. I was not nning to own her that night.


    But her actions are telling me that she wants it, I¡¯m no saint, I¡¯m really attracted to her, and it will be


    my honor to own her.


    When I found out that she was a virgin, I wanted her first to be memorable. I do it with much care


    and gentleness.


    I was shocked when I woke up and I didn¡¯t find her. But fate has its n.


    We met many times, some may say that it is pure coincidence but for me it¡¯s fate. She is fated with


    me. Though I know that for her, meeting me again means trouble.


    Imagine my shock when she wants to pretend that she didn¡¯t know me. I was her first! How can she


    be so cold?


    If it¡¯s another girl, I¡¯m sure that they will cling to me and demand to take responsibility because I was


    their first. But then again, Ellie is not like any other girl.


    The reason why I don¡¯t do virgins. Ellie is the only exemption.


    When she told me that she just treat me as her experience and she will do it with another guy, I feel


    like I want to kill someone. Ellie being with another guy is torture for me. I will never allow it to


    happen.


    I was back from reality when Nick spoke.


    ¡°But didn''t she demand you to marry her?¡± Nick asked.


    I shook his head. ¡°No, she didn''t. As per her, I was not part of her n. She doesn''t want to marry


    me. She only wants the twins.¡±


    Nickughs aloud. ¡°You¡¯re so lucky, dude!¡±


    ¡°I know I finally got an heir. My parents will not force me to settle down now. I have Ellie and the


    twins as an excuse.¡±


    ¡°But are you sure that she will not demand it? I mean what if it was just a part of her n? She will


    act as if she¡¯s not interested, to gain your trust and then in the end she will demand you to marry


    her.¡±


    I shrugged. ¡°I don¡¯t mind.¡±


    His eyes widen. ¡°What do you mean by that? Don¡¯t tell me you like her?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. All I know is, everything is fine with me as long as it¡¯s her. If she wants me to marry


    her, I will do it, as long as it¡¯s her.¡± I said in all honesty.


    ¡°You are screwed, dude!¡±


    End of shback.


    ¡°Oh, shoot! Did she hear us? But did she listen to our whole conversation?¡± Nick asked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so. She will not react that way if she did.¡±


    Nick nodded. ¡°I agree because if she did, she will surely believe you when you told her you like her.¡±


    I grab my ss with Bowmore scotch and sipped on it.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°But you can¡¯t be this idle Ulie. Time wille when another guy will take fancy of Ellie even though


    she already has a child.¡±


    ¡°I know but I will never let that thing happen. Ellie is mine.¡±

 Chapter 33 MY QUINN

    Chapter 33 MY QUINN


    I can¡¯t sleep. I am bothered by my past. I didn¡¯t expect that I will be sharing my painful past that


    casually with other people.


    shback


    It was my first day at the university when I first met him. I was looking for the room for my first ss


    when I bump into him. He was tall, he was thin but still in a good physique. You know that he is


    handsome despite his eyesses.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    He looks at me and smiles. ¡°No worries. Are you lost?¡±


    I shake my head. ¡°No. I don¡¯t think I¡¯m lost. I was looking for my ssroom.¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± Then he grabbed my schedule in my hand and began to read it.


    ¡°We are block mates. I can show you our ssroom if you don¡¯t mind.¡± He kindly offers.


    ¡°I don¡¯t mind.¡±


    That is the start of our friendship. Even though he has eyesses, you will never mistake him as a


    nerd. He was famous not just in our ss but in the whole university. Aside from being handsome,


    he was smart-which exins the eyesses, he has a good sense of humor and is popr with


    girls.


    He was my total opposite. I was the real nerd. Just like him, I was also wearing eyesses, though


    I don¡¯t dress like the typical nerd. But with my personality, I am a 100% nerd.


    I don¡¯t have friends. I was in my own world with my books and my drawings. I wanted to take up


    Architecture, but since I was an only child, I decided to take up business management instead. I


    know soon, I will be the one handling our family business.


    My drawings draw me closer to him. He would alwayse to me whenever he saw me alone. He


    will always pester me, though I don¡¯t find it annoying. I actually like it. He''s the only disturbance that


    I enjoy having.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you take up architecture? You are really good at this.¡± He suggested.


    ¡°I want to. But I will be handling my family business soon.¡± I told him.


    ¡°Yes I know, but your business is architecture and engineering services right?¡±


    I nodded.


    ¡°It¡¯s still perfect for you. You can take up architecture and even engineering then you apply business


    management for your masters.¡±


    He¡¯s right. It was a perfect n. I was so happy with his suggestion and I just find myself hugging


    him.


    ¡°Thank you!¡±


    He hugged me back. ¡°You are very wee my Quinn.¡±


    I pulled away from our hug.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t mean to hug. I was just so happy.¡± I told him while blushing.


    ¡°No worry my Quinn. I will always wee your hug with an open arm.¡±


    Then we both chuckled.


    We became more closed since then. He will always apany me during our breaks. He also


    introduces me to his friends. I think having friends is not that bad.


    Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    He will also visit me at my house and spend the weekend together. He will hold my hand from time


    to time. I know that I was already falling for him. Who wouldn¡¯t be right?


    ¡°I guess next year we won¡¯t be ssmates anymore. I will surely miss you my Quinn.¡± He said.


    I felt the butterfly in my stomach whenever he calls me ¡°My Quinn¡± it¡¯s as if I was him, Queen. I find


    it so sweet of him.


    ¡°Surely we won¡¯t be ssmates anymore. I also wanted to transfer to another university that


    specializes in architecture and engineering.¡±


    ¡°What? What about me my Quinn?¡±


    I furrowed. ¡°Huh? What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Transferring to another university means you are leaving me!¡±


    I chuckled. ¡°Of course not! We can still see each other after ss and we can always spend our


    weekends here in my house.¡±


    He pouted which I found so cute. ¡°I find it so hard thinking that we won¡¯t be ssmates anymore,


    what¡¯s more, if we are studying in different universities.¡±


    I can¡¯t myselfughing. He was acting like a child.


    ¡°Oh, my baby is having a tantrum.¡± I joke.


    He red at me by then his eyes softened. ¡°So I am your baby now?¡±


    ¡°It was a joke!¡± I told him while chuckling.


    ¡°Uhm Uhm.¡± He uttered then he went closer to me and gave me a soft kiss.


    ¡°I will miss you my Quinn. It''s not yet happening but I already miss you.¡±


    He kisses me again with the same gentleness but this time it''s a long kiss. I don''t know how to kiss


    because it was my first time, but I find myself responding to his kisses though I am not sure if I am


    doing it right.


    Since that kiss, he became sweeter to me. We don''t have anybel yet, but who cares right?


    Actions speak louder than words.


    Finals ended, it will be myst day at the university. I was excited because I prepare a gift for him. It


    was my thank you gift because he helps me decide on my future.


    I went to our usual ce, he always brings me to our school building¡¯s rooftop whenever we want


    our alone time with each other. I was stunned for a moment. I saw him kissing someone else.


    The girl''s eyes widen when she saw me. She pushes him due to shock. He looks pissed by the girl¡¯s


    action, then he looks in my direction. He just gave me a cold stare. The girl left the ce hurriedly.


    ¡°You kissed her.¡± The only thing I can utter.


    ¡°So what if I did?¡± He said, sounding pissed.


    I bit my lower lips. ¡°What about me then?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean what about you? We are friends!¡± He said and look at me with confusion as if I


    am saying weird things.


    ¡°I thought you like me!¡±


    ¡°I do! I like you as a friend!¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t kiss your friend!¡±


    ¡°We do! We kiss and we are just friends!¡±


    ¡°Asshole!¡± Then I throw my gift at him.


    ¡°It was supposedly my thank you gift for you, but I guess it was meant to be my goodbye gift


    because I never want to see your face again jerk!¡±


    End of shback


    I know I tweak some of my stories on them. I did that for some reason. I thought I already moved on


    from him. I thought I was okay now with my life. I thought I will not be affected by a memory of him


    anymore. I guess I¡¯m wrong.


    ***


    The twins¡¯ birthday celebration was a sess. We are now back here in Man and I am now


    having my meeting with Mr. Schulz. We will be presenting him with the revision of the cafeteria. The


    meeting will be done in his office along with the signing of our contract if he will approve the final


    revision of our design.


    ¡°Good morning Mr. Schulz!¡± I greeted him.


    We are now inside his office. I must say, Ulie and Mr. Schulz have the same taste. A best friend


    indeed.


    ¡°Good morning Ms. Cabello.¡± He greeted back.


    We did not waste any time, I started presenting him the revised design. Belle and Dominic did not


    come with me, since the only concern now is the cafeteria.


    ¡°It¡¯s much better now.¡± He only said.


    I guess he likes it. I smile to myself. I will get this deal finally!


    ¡°I¡¯m good with it. I have here with me the contract, we can sign it now. Then we¡¯ll have a media


    launch for this and announce you as in-charge of this project.¡±


    I want to jump for joy but I refrained from doing it. We reviewed and discuss the contract, after that


    we both signed the contract.


    ¡°Thank you for your trust, Mr. Schulz. We will not disappoint you.¡± I told him.


    ¡°You earned it Ms. Cabello, you don¡¯t need to thank me.¡±


    I just smile at him. Ulie was right. He was a fair businessman, though I find him more intimidating


    than arrogant.


    I was on my way out of his office when someone came. She went to Mr. Schulz and gave him a tight


    hug.


    Mr. Schulz was taken aback but he recovers quickly. He smiled and hug the girl back.


    The girl was gorgeous. I guess she was Mr. Schulz''s girlfriend. Looking at his eyes and expression


    now, it was obvious that he likes the girl in front of him.


    ¡°When did you arrive?¡±


    ¡°Just now. I went straight to your office because I miss you.¡±


    Mr. Schulz smile. ¡°I miss you too Hadley!¡±

 Chapter 34 RESENTMENT

    Chapter 34 RESENTMENT


    ¡°I miss you too Hadley!¡±


    My eyes widen upon hearing the name of the girl. I was curious about her for a while now, I can¡¯t


    believe that she was in front of me now.


    I feel weird for some reason. My heart is beating so fast and my body feels so weak. This feeling is


    different from what I felt a while ago when I signed the contract with Mr. Schulz.


    ¡°Who is she Quen? Don¡¯t tell me you have a girlfriend now?¡± Hadley said while clinging her arms on


    Mr. Schulz.


    ¡°No, silly! She is Ms. Penelope Cabello, the CEO and President of Cabello International


    Corporation. I signed a contract with them today for Schulz Tech office building here.¡±


    Hadley looks shocked from what she heard from Mr. Schulz. Seems like Mr. Schulz did not tell her


    about the possible partnership with mypany. Good thing we already signed the contract before


    she came. I have a hunch that she can influence Mr. Schulz¡¯s decision on this project.


    She went to me. ¡°Hi, I¡¯m Hadley Adelson. How are Kade and his kids doing?¡±


    ¡°They are doing well.¡±


    She smiles at me. ¡°d to hear that. If it¡¯s okay with you, I would like to invite you for lunch with


    Quen.¡±


    I wanted to say no, but how can I say no when I just signed a contract with Mr. Schulz?!


    ¡°Sure.¡± Then I smile at her, though I know that my smile looks fake.


    ¡°Great! Let¡¯s go Quen!¡±


    Mr. Schulz can¡¯t do anything but follow what she wants. He looks at me with an apologetic face,


    then he mouthed ¡°sorry.¡± I just nodded at him to assure him that I¡¯m fine with it.


    Hadley was the one who chose the restaurant while Mr. Schulz and I were following her.


    ¡°I heard so much about you,¡± Hadley said to me after we gave our orders to the waiter assigned to


    our table.


    I just smile because I don¡¯t know what to say or how to react to what she just said.


    ¡°Well, I admit I became interested in you because of your rtionship with Kade.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have any romantic rtionship with Ulie.¡± I corrected her just in case she assumes things.


    I know I sounded guilty. I knew I somehow ruined their supposed marriage, though it was an


    arranged marriage. At first, I thought that she was cool with it, but when I found out that she was in


    love with Ulie, I am not sure anymore.


    She looks happy from what she heard from me. I guess it¡¯s safe to assume that she still has a


    feeling for Ulie.


    ¡°Noted on that.¡± She joked then continue with her speech.


    ¡°Anyway, I became interested in you since then. I heard many things about you, especially your


    project with LHI and Hearst. I must say that I¡¯m impressed! I¡¯m sure Quen feels the same way that¡¯s


    why she gave this project to you.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s really good. Those malicious issues before were all crap.¡± Mr. Schulz said.


    I smiled at him. I feel fluttered from all this. ¡°Thanks, Ms. Adelson and Mr. Schulz.¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Stop with your formalities Penelope, you can just call me Hadley.¡±


    ¡°Hadley is right. You can call me Enrique or Quen just like what other people call me, or if you want


    you can be formal with me only when we are dealing with the business but outside the project just


    call me by my first name. Don¡¯t make me feel old when I am not that old yet. We are the same age if


    I¡¯m not mistaken.¡±


    ¡°Sure Hadley and Enrique.¡±


    Our orders arrived but Hadley still keeps on asking me things about me, my work, and my family.


    ¡°I heard you are close with the Escarrer family.¡± Hadley finally asks about the Escarrer.


    For some reason, I had a feeling that what she wants to ask from me is not about my work but my


    rtionship with Escarrer and the twins. And I guess I¡¯m right.


    ¡°Yes. It¡¯s not hard to be close with them. They are all nice. I treated them like my own family.¡± I


    honestly told her.


    She furrowed. ¡°So you''re saying that you are also treating Kade as your own family? I thought you


    guys don¡¯t have a romantic rtionship?¡±


    ¡°Hadley!¡± Enrique tried to stop Hadley from questioning me.


    ¡°What? I¡¯m just asking because I¡¯m kind of confused. They were in this set up for five years or so


    but they are not announcing that they are together or if they have any ns to get married.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think we owe the public an exnation or update about our life.¡±


    ¡°Maybe to them but what about me? You guys owe me one!¡± Hadley said then tears welled up from


    her eyes.


    I got panic. I didn¡¯t expect her outburst. I mean, maybe I know there is a possibility that she will pick


    a fight with me because of what happened between her and Ulie but looking at her almost crying in


    front of me, I didn¡¯t expect this at all.


    Enrique went to her to console her. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for this Penelope.¡±


    ¡°Why are saying sorry to her? I was the one who got hurt! I was the one who lost a fianc¨¦!¡± The


    tears that she was trying hard to control burst out.


    My heart is hurting now that I am looking at her crying. I know I¡¯m at fault for this. I nned my


    pregnancy. Whether my n seeded or not, the fact that Ulie has a fianc¨¦ at that time when I


    had a one-night stand with him is wrong. I don¡¯t want to hurt anyone but I just did.


    I am consumed with so much guilt. I don¡¯t know what to say to her now. I will understand if she will


    hate. I just ruined her n or dream to spend her lifetime with Ulie.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Hadley. I really do. It was not part of the n. I didn¡¯t know that Ulie has a fianc¨¦ when we


    did that. I was not nning to tell him about my pregnancy because I want to keep the twins for


    myself.¡±


    ¡°You know that I am an orphan. I lost my parents when I was 20 years old. I had no choice but to


    take over our family business. I work my ass off for six years. I felt so empty from those years. I


    miss my parents so much. I want to be with them, but I knew they will not like it if I died because


    they want me to continue living and be happy.¡±


    ¡°I had no idea how to be happy. I just want my family back. The only thing that came into my mind is


    to have a child of my own. That night, I intend to have a one-night stand with someone to get


    pregnant.¡±


    They both looked shocked by my revtion. No one knew about this but the people who were close


    to me.


    ¡°You n to get pregnant with Kade?¡± Hadley asks in disbelief.


    I shook my head. ¡°No. I didn¡¯t know he was Ulysses Kade Escarrer. At that time, I didn¡¯t bother to


    know the name of the guy I will have a one-night stand with because I don¡¯t have any n to share


    my child with him.¡±


    ¡°But how did he know about your pregnancy?¡± Hadley can¡¯t help but ask.


    ¡°LHI Resort project happened. That is the time I found out that the guy I had a one-night stand with


    is Ulysses Kade Escarrer. I wanted to back out from the project because I¡¯m scared that he will find


    out about my pregnancy.¡±


    ¡°But you didn¡¯t back out.¡±


    ¡°Because I can¡¯t take for granted all the hard work my people give to achieve ourpany¡¯s goal.


    And Ulie will still find out about my pregnancy even if I didn¡¯t do the project.¡±


    ¡°Penelope is right. The media expose her pregnancy. Even if she back out from the project, Ulysses


    will still look for her.¡± Enrique exined to Hadley.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know he already has a fianc¨¦. I just found out about it after he knew about my pregnancy. I


    told him that he can continue your wedding but he said that he already made a decision.¡±


    I guess this exnation is enough. Hadley is right, I owe her an exnation. She was the victim


    here.


    ¡°But why is Kade not marrying you yet?¡± Hadley asks again.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to.¡±


    Hadley''s eyes widen. ¡°What? Are you for real?!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want him to marry me just because of the kids. It¡¯s not fair for the both of us and even to the


    twins. I think the twins deserve an honest rtionship, not an obligated one.¡±


    ¡°Again, Hadley I¡¯m sorry. Because of me, you lost him. If I can do something to help you or just


    anything. I am willing to do so.¡± I offered her with pure sincerity.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    I nodded.


    ¡°Then help me to convince Kade to marry me.¡±

 Chapter 35 MARRY ME

    Chapter 35 MARRY ME


    ¡°Why are you so early today mom?¡±


    ¡°Mommy miss the two of you that¡¯s why I decided toe home early. Why? You don¡¯t like it?¡± I


    answered Amelia.


    The two of them shake their heads.


    ¡°Of course not, mommy! We are happy that you are here now, and we miss you too. We wish that


    you will alwayse home early.¡± Amelia said in defense.


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    I smiled at them and gave the two of them a kiss. I decided toe home after my lunch with


    Enrique and Hadley. I feel so drained after that lunch, I don¡¯t have enough energy to go back to the


    office and work. I call Luna to inform her about the deal with Schulz Tech and my decision not to go


    back to the office because I am not feeling well. She sounded worried but I assure her that I am


    okay. It''s no big deal.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry kids if mommy is always busy with work. Thepany is growing and I had no one to rely


    on but myself.¡± I told them.


    I knew that there are times when I don¡¯t have enough time to spend with them. Good thing is that


    Ulie can handle his time well and was able to fill the quality time that I was not able to give to the


    kids because of my work.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay mommy. We understand. Don¡¯t worry mommy, when I grow up, I will be the one to handle


    thepany.¡± Alistair said with full conviction.


    I feel so touched, knowing that Alistair is having that kind of thought. I would love to pass to him the


    company. I know that he will do greater things in thepany than I did. I¡¯m d that these kids


    understand the situation. They are considered mature for their age. The way they handle and


    understand things.


    ¡°What about the LHI Alistair?¡±


    We all look in the direction where the voice came from. It was Ulie. He also came home early.


    ¡°You¡¯re early!¡± I told him.


    He went to the kids and kissed them, then he wants to me and did the same. ¡°I heard that you are


    home and you are not feeling well. I decided to cancel my meeting for today ande home to take


    care of you.¡±


    I smiled at him. Ulie is a sweet and caring guy. I understand why Hadley fell in love with him. I


    remember the favor that Hadley is asking me.


    shback


    ¡°Then help me convince Kade to marry me.¡±


    ¡°Hadley that¡¯s enough! Penelope, don¡¯t mind what she just said.¡± Enriquees in between us.


    ¡°But I¡¯m serious Quen! I want her to help me with Kade.¡± Hadley still insists on what she wants.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so cruel Hadley! They already have a child. It¡¯s not right to ask that kind of favor.¡±


    ¡°But she told us that they are not in a romantic rtionship, meaning she doesn¡¯t love Kade! This


    deal will give her the advantage to get sole custody of the twins if I marry Kade. Having the twins by


    herself is her original n, to begin with.¡± Hadley said trying to prove her point.


    ¡°What about the kids Hadley? Have you thought about them? How they will feel when you take their


    father from them?¡± Enrique said a bit irritated.


    Hadley became speechless. No one says anything after that, we just resume our lunch and parted


    ways.


    End of shback


    I came back from remembering the stressful lunch I had with Hadley and Enrique when I heard


    Amelia¡¯s worried voice.


    ¡°You are sick mommy?¡± Amelia said in a sad and worried tone.


    I smiled at her. ¡°No baby, Mom is not sick. I just said that as an excuse to go home early.¡± I told her


    to assure her that I am fine and I¡¯m not sick.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure mommy?¡± Amelia asks again, then she went to me and gave me a warm hug.


    Alistair did the same. I hug my twins back. Then Ulie joined our hug. Enrique is right. If I will help


    Hadley to convince Ulie to marry her, then what will happen to my children? Yes, my original n


    was to have the twins by myself. But now is a different story. My children are closer to their father.


    Ulie was able to give more time to thempared to me, who is always busy with work. He


    deserves them more than me.


    We had our instant family bonding. The kids were happy because of this. It made me feel more


    guilty because I know that it is me who always has no time for the family. I''m happy that CIC is


    doing so well but at the same time, it made me feel bad for the kids because I had no choice but to


    spend more time with CIC than them.


    The kids went to bed early, since they were so tired from ying with us, their parents. They are


    always telling us that the best days of their lives are a time like this. They wish that we can spend


    more time with them like this. I guess, thepany will not be hurt if I squeeze my time for my kids.


    ¡°Tired?¡± Ulie asks after we made our way to the kid''s room.


    ¡°Yes, but I¡¯m happy,¡± I told with a genuine smile on my face.


    ¡°Then we can now talk?¡± He said then he asks me to talk in the living room.


    ¡°What really happen today? Why did youe home early? Don¡¯t try to deny it, Ellie. I know you


    now well.¡± He said before I started to deny his suspicion.


    I just shook my head. I guess I had no choice but to tell him about Hadley. ¡°I close the deal with


    Schulz Tech.¡± I started my speech.


    ¡°And?¡±


    I sighed aloud. ¡°I met Hadley.¡±


    He just nodded as if he already expecting it. I furrowed. How did he know that?


    ¡°You don¡¯t look surprised, were you expecting it already?¡± I asked him.


    ¡°She went to my office this morning.¡±


    My eyes widen. I thought she went straight to Enrique when she arrived? Did she lie to Enrique?


    Wait, Ellie, that is not the point! The point here is she met with Ulie!


    ¡°What did she say to you?¡± I can¡¯t help but ask.


    Why is she doing this? Why now? If she wants to have Ulie back to her then she¡¯s almost six years


    late! Or is she? I just wanted tough at myself because of those silly thoughts! I don¡¯t own Ulie! I


    even told her that Ulie and I are not in any romantic rtionship! Why did I tell her that I don¡¯t have


    any romantic rtionship with Ulie?


    Well, because that¡¯s the truth. My other mind told me.


    ¡°Hey, stop all your weird thinking, okay?¡± Ulie said after he went to me to console me.


    ¡°Why is she back? I mean after almost six years? Why now?¡± I can¡¯t help but burst out my


    frustration.


    ¡°I heard she was in charge of a big project six years ago. They were in the process of expanding


    their business in Asia. It was not an easy task to do. So, I guess, even if she wants to do something


    before, she can¡¯t because of her situation.¡± Ulie calmly exined.


    ¡°And now she¡¯s done with her work so it¡¯s her time to win you back? Is that what you mean


    Ulysses?!¡± I said a bit pissed at his exnation.


    I heard him chuckle while hugging me. ¡°There¡¯s nothing to worry about Ellie. I am yours.¡±


    ¡°But she looks so determined to win you back! How can you be so sure?!¡± I hissed.


    ¡°Because I never loved nor liked her. It¡¯s just you Ellie.¡± He said in a sincere tone.


    I was taken aback and blushed at the same time.


    ¡°She¡¯s confident because you and I are still single. If you want her to back off, then marry me, Ellie.¡±

 Chapter 36 AMNESIA

    Chapter 36 AMNESIA


    ¡°She¡¯s confident because you and I are still single. If you want her to back off, then marry me, Ellie.¡±


    He was serious when he said that. I know he means it.


    ¡°I can¡¯t marry you. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    I was about to go to my room when he grabbed me.


    ¡°Tell me the reason, why you can¡¯t marry me.¡± He said in a cold voice.


    I almost shiver because of the coldness of his voice.


    ¡°I told you, you can¡¯t marry me because of the kids. It¡¯s not fair for the both of us.¡±


    ¡°I told you, Ellie, so many times that I like you. I don¡¯t think I am just like you. I am sure that for the


    longest time, I am already in love with you, Ellie. I know you can feel it too.¡±


    He touched my face. I can see the love in his eyes. But I just can¡¯t ept. I refuse to believe it, not


    again. His face went closer to mine. He kissed me. It was a sweet and gentle kiss. I kiss him back


    like how I usually do.


    ¡°Say something, my Quinn.¡± He whispers.


    I flinched. He called me ¡®my Quinn¡¯ again. Did he finally remember me?


    ¡°What do you want me to say?¡± I whisper back.


    ¡°That you love me too. You always kissing back, meaning you also feel something towards me.¡±


    I push him away. I gave him a cold stare then smirked. ¡°We can always kiss and remain as friends. I


    got that from you, remember?¡±


    He looks confused as if he was hearing weird things from me. Then he clenched his jaw. ¡°I am not


    your college first love, Ellie. Don¡¯tpare me to that bastard!¡±


    Iugh bitterly. ¡°Are you seriously don¡¯t remember me? I just removed my eyesses now, but my


    looks are still the same. And my name? Can¡¯t you even remember it? Am I that unworthy to you?¡±


    ¡°W-what are you saying, Ellie? I don¡¯t know what you are talking about.¡±


    ¡°La Salle, Business management, a nerd girl with eyesses, the girl who loves to draw, the girl


    you always pester until two got close with each other, the girl you encourage to take up architecture


    and engineering because that is what she was passionate about, you advise her to take up


    business management as her masters. Still now ringing a bell?¡±


    He remained to look confused as if trying hard to recall the things I told him. ¡°I really can¡¯t remember


    Ellie; I knew that something is missing after I had my ident.¡±


    I look at him in disbelief. ¡°You didn¡¯t tell you had amnesia!¡±


    ¡°Because I didn¡¯t know I had! But now you are telling me stories that I don¡¯t recall, so I¡¯m guessing


    that maybe I had amnesia. I will go to the doctor who attended me when I had an ident. You can


    come with me if you want Ellie to prove to you that I was telling the truth.¡±


    I sighed. ¡°Fine. Let¡¯s go to the doctor tomorrow.¡±


    The next morning, Ulie and I went to the doctor he was referring tost night.


    ¡°I am sure that you had no amnesia when you had an ident. But you had dissociative amnesia


    after youmitted suicide a week after you woke up from beingatose for three months. You


    were a bit confused when you woke up and found out that youmitted suicide. We run some


    tests for you since we suspect that you had that kind of amnesia because of your reaction after you


    woke up. I think it''s best to ask your parents about it.¡± The doctor exined to us.


    ¡°What¡¯s a dissociative amnesia means doc?¡± Ulie asks for rification.


    ¡°Dissociative amnesia or psychogenic amnesia is a kind of amnesia where a person blocks out a


    certain information, mostly associated with stress or traumatic events, leaving a person unable to


    remember important personal information.¡± The doctor exined further.


    ¡°You had a session with a psychiatrist when you were in the US right?¡± The doctor asks.


    I nodded. ¡°Yes, my parents arranged it for me.¡±


    ¡°Youmitted suicide Ulie?¡± That is the only thing that stuck in my mind.


    I needed to ask him or else I will not stop thinking about it. I knew he was guilty about the ident


    but to that extent ofmitting suicide. I shiver at the thought of Ulie doing that.


    ¡°I was not sure why I did that. My parents told me about my ident. I remember it but it¡¯s not that


    clear. I feel like something important is missing.¡±


    He hugs me and kisses my forehead. ¡°I¡¯m okay now, Ellie. You don¡¯t need to worry about it. It was


    done long ago.¡±


    I shake my head. ¡°No, Ulie! I can¡¯t force myself to be okay after hearing it. Never do that again,


    promise me!¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t, Ellie. I will never leave you and the kids. You are my life now.¡±


    After we went to the doctor, Ulie called his parents asking them if they are in the mansion because


    we want to talk to them.


    We are now in their living room. Ka was not in the mansion, it¡¯s just me, Ulie, and his parents.


    ¡°We talked to the doctor who was assigned to me when I had an ident.¡± Ulie started the topic.


    His parents flinched. ¡°Why did you meet him? Is there a problem?¡± His mom asks worriedly.


    ¡°Mom, I¡¯m good. It¡¯s just that, I think I lost some of my memories. There are things that Ellie is telling


    me that I can¡¯t remember. As per her, we knew each other when we were in college. We were


    ssmates during our first year in the University.¡± Ulie exined to them.


    Auntie and Uncle look shocked. Even they had no idea about our friendship when we were in


    college. I never had a chance to meet them. Ulie always talked about his parents and his n to


    introduce me to them, but it never happened.


    ¡°Really? What a small world! And you can¡¯t remember her Ulysses? What kind of a man are you!¡±


    Auntie started to scold him.


    ¡°Mom, I really can¡¯t remember! I told you something important is missing after I woke up from the


    suicide thing.¡± He hissed.


    ¡°So, Ellie was the ¡®something¡¯ important that you are referring to?!¡± Auntie said in a teasing tone.


    ¡°Mom, stop with your teasing. We have a serious matter that we need to discuss.¡± Ulie sounded


    irritated.


    ¡°Fine. The doctor informed us about your condition, that¡¯s why we arranged a psychiatrist for you.


    As per your psychiatrist, the memory that you lost might have a great in fact on your life and hurt


    you at the same time, that is why you chose to block it in your memory. We thought that the painful


    memory that the psychiatrist is referring to is the people who died during that ident. We chose to


    let that go. We don¡¯t want you to have that same pain again that leads you to kill yourself.¡± His mom


    said a bit emotional.


    ¡°I guess, aside from that ident, you also block Ellie in your memory,¡± Uncle added.


    When we went home, I was still speechless. This was Ulie¡¯s life I never heard of. I still can¡¯t over the


    fact that he tried to kill himself. I am thankful to God that he protected him from himself. I may have


    issues with him, but I will never want him to leave mepletely.


    ¡°You believe me now?¡± Ulie said while we were in the living room.


    The kids are already asleep. I tried to look normal while I¡¯m with the kids. I don¡¯t want them to find


    out about it.


    ¡°It¡¯s the least of my concern now Ulie. You tried to kill yourself!¡± I said feeling my tears welling up in


    my eyes.


    He hugs me again. ¡°I told you to get over it.¡±


    ¡°I want to, but I can¡¯t!¡± I hissed while removing the tears in my eyes.


    ¡°Now tell me you don¡¯t love me!¡± Ulie said.


    I rolled my eyes. ¡°Don¡¯t try to change the topic!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not! I know, it will be hard to win you back since I lost my memory of you. I will do my best to


    remember you again. I promise.¡± He said in a sincere voice.


    ¡°But remembering me might also mean you will remember the painful memory of your ident, the


    very reason why you tried to kill yourself.¡±


    I don¡¯t care if he remembers me or not. Just like his parents, I don¡¯t want him to remember the pain


    that leads him to kill himself. I don¡¯t want to risk it.


    ¡°I won¡¯t, Ellie! I promise.¡±


    I shook my head. ¡°No, Ulie! I don¡¯t want you to remember me. I don¡¯t want to risk the possibility of


    you, remembering the painful past that made you try to kill yourself.¡±


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I want to win you back, Ellie!¡±


    ¡°Then win me back without those memories. I will give you a chance to redeem yourself.¡±

 Chapter 37 SURPRISE DATE

    Chapter 37 SURPRISE DATE


    I promise myself that I will never fall in love with Ulie again. He broke my heart once, and he can do


    it again if I let myself fall for him again. I thought that I will never meet him again, but fate has its


    way. He became the father of my children and now we are living together.


    He always tried to win my heart but I always rejected him. I can see that he changed a lotpared


    to when we were in college. He¡¯s more mature and responsible now. But I can¡¯t ept him because


    I am afraid that I will get hurt again because of him. I am also not sure if he likes me for me or just


    because of the twins.


    After hearing that he once tried to end his life, everything changed. It pains me from thinking that I


    will lose him forever. I don¡¯t think I can handle that. I want him to remember mepletely but if


    remembering me means the possibility of him remembering his trauma and will encourage him to


    end his life then I don¡¯t want it anymore.


    We can build a new memory together. I decided to forget the past and just focus on the present, not


    just for me or Ulie but for our kids.


    ¡°Ellie.¡±


    Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Dahlia, I¡¯m d you agreed to meet me.¡±


    Dahlia is my spiritual leader in our church. I always go to her whenever I am down, or when I am


    extremely happy. He was like a mother to me. She was there when I lost my parents. Without her, I


    don¡¯t think I can get through everything that I went through. I called her today because I needed her


    advice about my decision.


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯m always avable for you.¡± She said in a gentle voice.


    I hug her. ¡°Thank you, Dahlia, you are the best.¡±


    ¡°Enough of your sweet talk, tell me why you want to meet me.¡±


    I chuckled then I sighed aloud. We were both seated in our favorite spot in this caf¨¦.


    ¡°I decided to give Ulie a chance.¡± I started my speech.


    She just nodded and ask me to continue.


    ¡°I found out that he had Dissociative amnesia. It¡¯s a kind of amnesia where a person blocks certain


    information in his life. He got that trauma when he had an ident 11 or 12 years ago. As per his


    parents and his doctor, when he found out about his ident after being in aa for three


    months, hemitted suicide due to guilt because someone died during that ident. And for


    some reason, he didn¡¯t remember that he had an ident and tried to kill his life. And just recently


    he found out that he also loses our college memories. But the funny part is, I was the only one he


    can¡¯t remember, the rest of his college life he remembers.¡±


    ¡°He wanted to remember me but I stopped him. I am scared that if he does, he might remember the


    ident and the reason why he tried tomit suicide. And I don¡¯t want that.¡± My voice broke and


    my tears began to fall.


    I continued my story while I was wiping my tears that keep oning. ¡°When I found out about it, I


    can¡¯t be still. Just thinking of losing him made me go crazy. I epted the thing that I always tried to


    deny to myself, that I fell in love with him again. It¡¯s stronger nowpare before that¡¯s why I gave


    him the chance to prove his love for me.¡±


    Dahlia went closer to me and gave me a warm hug. ¡°You did great Ellie. Always remember that


    everything happened for a reason. Always trust the n of God in your life. There is a reason why


    God allowed him to lose his memory of you, and God also has a reason why you end up doing that


    crazy n of yours with him. But still, it doesn¡¯t mean that what you did is right. You decided on your


    own and refuse to follow the right process of having a child or family.¡±


    ¡°I know you got your heartbroken because of him but I don¡¯t want you to hate love or restrain


    yourself from falling in love. You experience being loved by your parents and your saw how much


    your parents love each other. And remember in the bible it says, three things willst forever: faith,


    hope, and love- and the greatest of these is love. Never be scared of loving someone. Do not


    deprive yourself to love and be loved. You are worthy of love.¡±


    This is exactly what I needed. I feel calmer now.


    I hug her again. ¡°Thank you, Dahlia. Thank you for always being there for me especially when I


    needed you the most.¡±


    After I met with Dahlia, I went straight home. I did not tell the twins that I wille homete today,


    I¡¯m sure that they are waiting for me tonight.


    When I reach home, my forehead creased because the living room is too dark. Did they go to sleep


    already? Then I noticed that the lights opened but were a bit dimmed. I saw petals that have been


    scattered on the floor, then candles that seems like pointing in a direction. I followed the candles; it¡¯s


    pointing in the dining room. I saw Amelia in a waiter costume.


    ¡°Good evening Ma¡¯am. I will now guide you to your reserved table.¡± She said in a serious voice.


    I knew that I need to go with her acting but I wanted to tease he a bit. ¡°But I don¡¯t remember that I


    ask for a reservation.¡±


    Amelia flinched but she recovers fast.


    ¡°Someone reserved a table for you.¡±


    ¡°And who would that be?¡±


    ¡°Your date for tonight ma¡¯am,¡± Amelia said in a teasing tone.


    I was about to say something when Amelia whispers to me.


    ¡°Mom please just let me guide you to your seat. Don¡¯t make it hard for me please.¡±


    I chuckled. ¡°Fine. Show me to my table.¡±


    She bowed to me. ¡°As you wish ma¡¯am.¡± Then she guided me to my seat.


    I saw Ulie looking so handsome with his suit and he is smiling at me. He offers his hand when I was


    already near him. He moved the chair for me then he went to his.


    A few momentster, Alistair went to us and gave us the menu. He also wearing a waiter costume.


    I chuckled when I saw the menu. It only has one dish on the menu.


    ¡°You only had one dish on your menu,¡± I told Alistair.


    ¡°Yes, Ma¡¯am but that Is a special dish. You will not regret choosing it.¡± He said full of confidence.


    ¡°Fine, if you say so.¡± I decided to give in and not make it hard for Alistair.


    He said thank you and after a few minutes, he went back to us again with Amelia, serving the food.


    ¡°Enjoy your date, Ma¡¯am, Sir.¡± They both said then they left us.


    ¡°What¡¯s with all these?¡± I can¡¯t help but ask.


    ¡°A date. You told mest night that you are giving me a chance to win you back. Don¡¯t tell me you


    are not serious about that?¡±


    I shook my head. ¡°Of course, not! I mean what I saidst night. I am willing to give you a chance


    now.¡±


    ¡°Did you do it because you felt pity for me?¡±


    ¡°No, Ulie. I am not just doing this for you. I am doing this for myself and the kids.¡±


    His eye widens. ¡°You mean to say?¡±


    ¡°When I found out that you tried to end your life, I lost it. I don¡¯t want to lose you forever, Ulie. You


    broke my heart big time, that made me hate to love. I did my best not to fall for you again because I


    don¡¯t want to experience the same pain again. But thinking that you will die, made everything


    change.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to take this chance to be with you again for granted. God has a reason why all things


    happen. I decided to trust him. I know that there is a reason why of all the men in the Philippines, I


    ended up doing my crazy n with you.¡±


    ¡°It will not be easy, Ulie. I will have trust issues, but I hope your love for me is enough to endure it.¡±


    Ulie holds my hand and gently squeezes it. ¡°I promise you, Ellie, I will be patient with you. I will do


    everything to win your heart and trustpletely. Again, I am doing this not just because of the


    twins, but because I love you, Ellie. You are the only one I love this much. I never fell for anyone but


    you.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t remember what I did to you in the past but because of what you said to me that I did, I know


    that is horrible and I want to punch myself for doing that. I was a fool for losing a great girl like you.


    And I am thankful to God for this chance of winning you back.¡±

 Chapter 38 MEMORIES

    Chapter 38 MEMORIES


    When Ellie finally gave me a chance to win her heart, I can¡¯t exin how happy I am. Though I am


    bothered by the memories that I can¡¯t remember since Ellie is part of the memories I lost, I¡¯m still


    happy because now, I have a chance to make her minepletely.


    I have been using the twins as an excuse to stay in her penthouse. We only agreed to let me stay


    with them for a year, but I keep on reasoning the twins the reason why she had no choice but to let


    me stay with them.


    I love her. I don¡¯t when I started to fall in love with her. Maybe when I first met her in the club, that¡¯s


    why I let my guard down, or maybe I already love her when we were in college, I was just so stupid


    not to know it. But one thing is for sure, I am deeply and madly in love with her. She is the only girl I


    will love in my life.


    I want to give Ellie a date that she will never forget, that¡¯s why I brought out my special card, the


    twins. I ask for their help on the dinner date that I was nning for Ellie. I picked them up at their


    school.


    ¡°Daddy!¡± Amelia and Alistair are running towards me with huge smiles on their faces.


    ¡°I¡¯m d you are here to fetch us!¡± Amelia said then she gave me a sweet kiss.


    I kissed her too. ¡°Twins, where do you want to eat?¡± I asked them.


    ¡°Are we going to eat with Mommy?¡± Alistair asked.


    I shake my head. ¡°Is it okay kids not to invite your mom to our lunch today? I was nning to


    surprise your momter and I need your help.¡±


    Both of their eyes twinkled.


    ¡°I love surprises dad; we will definitely help you! Right, Ali?¡± Amelia said excitedly.


    Alistair smiled and nodded.


    We are now having our lunch, and I can¡¯t tell them my n yet because they are still busy eating


    their lunch. I¡¯m pleased that the twins love to eat and are not picky with foods.


    ¡°Are you done eating twins? Can we start our meeting now?¡± I said to them when I saw that they


    were already done with their desserts.


    Both of them nodded.


    ¡°We are ready to listen, dad. How can we help you with your surprise with mom?¡±


    I told them my n. Their eyes are twinkling as they listen to my n.


    ¡°Is that mean that Mommy will finally have the same surname as us?¡± Amelia asks innocently.


    ¡°Do you want your mom to be Mrs. Penelope Quinn Escarrer?¡± I ask them.


    The both of them nodded. ¡°Yes, Daddy! All my ssmate''s mommy is the same surname as them. I


    want mom to also have the same surname as us.¡± Amelia said.


    ¡°I will do my best to win your mom¡¯s heart. I also want your mom to carry our surname. I want her to


    be Mrs. Escarrer badly. That is why I need your help. We will team up to achieve our goal. Are you


    with me?¡±


    They both nodded in agreement. ¡°Let¡¯s do this, Daddy!¡±


    I asked Jace to prepare all the things we need for the surprise dinner. Jace also brought the waiter


    outfit I ask him to buy.


    ¡°Oh, my Daddy! I love this uniform! I look so cute in this!¡± Amelia said after she tries the outfit that


    Jace brought.


    ¡°I¡¯m d you like it, my princess. What about you Alistair?¡±


    ¡°I look good in everything dad,¡± Alistair said in a cocky tone.


    I saw Amelia roll her eyes. ¡°Oh, please Alistair! Don¡¯t delude yourself that you are handsome


    because you are not!¡±


    ¡°I am! Mommy said I am handsome!¡±


    ¡°Mommy just said that because you are her child! She doesn¡¯t want you to get hurt of the truth!¡±


    I saw Alistair''s eyes welled up. I just shook my head. Amelia always likes to make his brother cry.


    Alistair is brave to other kids but not with her twins.


    ¡°Amelia stop teasing your brother. He is handsome. I am saying this not because he is my son, but


    because he really is. We can go outside and ask random people about your brother¡¯s look and I am


    sure that they will all agree with me, that Alistair is a handsome boy.¡± I said to stop them from


    fighting.


    Amelia just pouted.


    We are busy with our preparations when I received a text message from Ellie.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    FROM: My Quinn


    Hi Ulie, I will be kind ofte, I need to meet someone. This will be quick, no need to tell the kids.


    I guess we still have more time to prepare for the surprise. While the rest are busy decorating the


    living room and dining room, I went to the kitchen to cook our food for dinner. I also make food for


    the kids. I will not be joining them to dinner because they will be our serverster.


    I decided to have a quick shower because I smell like the food I cooked. I am done with the shower


    when I received a text message from Ellie, saying that she is on her way home. I hurriedly put on


    my clothes and fixed my hair and then I told everyone to be ready because Ellie is on her way here.


    I ask the guard to call us when Ellie arrived at the building of the condominium.


    The surprise dinner date is a sess. I am more than satisfied with the oue of our surprise. I


    know that Ellie also loves me, and I understand why she is hesitant to ept me. It was all my fault.


    I can¡¯t me her for not trusting her heart to me again, because I was the one who broke her heart


    in the past.


    After our dinner, Ellie and I help the kids to shower and prepare them to sleep.


    The next morning, I decided to meet Quen. Though I already promised Ellie that I will not dig


    anymore about my past, still, I want to try. I know what she was afraid of. Now that I have her and


    the twins, there is no reason for me to kill myself.


    ¡°What brought you here?¡± Quen said in a cold voice when saw me entering his office.


    I invited myself to seat on the chair in front of his office.


    ¡°Quen, I need your help. I know you are the only person who can help me.¡± I said in full humility.


    Heughs aloud. ¡°You? The ever-mighty Ulysses went to see me ask for my help?! Is the world


    ending now?¡±


    I ignore his sarcastic remarks. I look at him intently. ¡°I¡¯m serious Quen, I need your help.¡±


    He smirked. ¡°Why me? Why not ask your new best friend for help?¡±


    ¡°Stop being a pussy Quen! Stop being jealous with Nick!¡± I hissed.


    ¡°Why will I be jealous of him?¡±


    ¡°Then stop acting like that and listen to me. I need your help Quen. I badly need it.¡±


    He frowned. ¡°What do you need from me?¡±


    ¡°Your memories. Our memories.¡±


    He looks more confused. ¡°Huh? What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°You know that there are parts of my memory that I can remember.¡±


    I saw him flinched. I knew it! He knew what I meant. He knew everything.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I can help you.¡± He said coldly.


    ¡°I know you well Quen, you knew something,¡± I said to him.


    He cleared his throat then he sighed. ¡°Fine. What exactly do you want to know?¡±


    ¡°My memories in college.¡± I simply said.


    He averted my gazed. ¡°College memories? We are not together on our college days. I studied in the


    States while studying here in the Philippines. I don¡¯t think I can help you. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°We may not study in the same country but we always update each other, especially with the girl we


    like.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what you are talking about.¡± He said instead.


    I clenched my jaw. ¡°I will stop beating around the bush. Penelope Quinn Cabello. We studied in the


    same university when I was in my first year of college. Who is she in my life at that time? Did I really


    hurt her like what she said?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Ulysses, I can¡¯t tell you about that.¡±

 Chapter 39 Girl in his dream

    Chapter 39 Girl in his dream


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Ulysses, I can¡¯t tell you about that.¡±


    My forehead creased. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Your parents ask me not to tell you about her because they are afraid that you will remember


    everything and you will try to kill yourself again.¡± He said in a calm voice.


    ¡°Did my parents know about Ellie?¡± I asked him.


    I¡¯m a bit confused because when Ellie and I talk to them, they act as if they don¡¯t know my story with


    Ellie. If Quen is saying now that my parents were the ones who ask him not to say anything to me,


    then they knew my rtionship with Ellie during our college days. Why are they acting as if they are


    clueless about this thing?


    ¡°They knew that you had a girl you like in the Philippines. But they don¡¯t that the girl was Ellie. They


    did not ask for any details about her because their main concern was to keep the girl a secret to


    you.¡±


    I¡¯m a bit satisfied knowing that my parents are not pretending about Ellie. I also understand why


    they came up with that n. I messed up big time.


    ¡°I understand why you guys chose to keep it a secret from me. But now is different. I have Ellie and


    the twins with me now, there is no reason for me to kill myself. I feel guilty and sorry for them but it


    will not end up likest time. I will think Ellie and the twins first before myself.¡± I told him.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry bro but I still can¡¯t tell you. I don¡¯t want to take that risk. Especially now that you and Ellie


    are family now. Ellie also wants you to stop digging about your past with her.¡±


    I was stunned by hisst statement. ¡°How did you know that Ellie wants me to stop digging my


    past?¡±


    ¡°Ellie went to me yesterday. She asked a favor from me.¡±


    I furrowed. ¡°What favor is that?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    ¡°Did Ellie not tell you that she met Hadley here in my office the other day?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Ellie told me that she met Hadley but did not give all the details. She just told me that Hadley is


    determined to win me back. Are you still not able to win her Quen? Seriously?! You have five years


    to win her heart!¡±


    He chuckled. ¡°Yes, I have five years to win her heart but I chose not to.¡±


    I¡¯m confused. ¡°But why? You love her, right?¡±


    He nodded. ¡°Yes, I did.¡±


    ¡°Did? Meaning past tense?¡±


    Heughed aloud. ¡°Is it that hard to believe?!¡±


    ¡°Hell yes! You are head over heels to her. I can¡¯t believe you fell out of love with her.¡±


    He shook his head. ¡°I did not fall in love with her. I still love her but not romantically, more like a


    friend or a sister to me.¡±


    My jaw dropped. ¡°What really happened? How did you realize all these?!¡±


    I¡¯m eager to know the things I missed about his life.


    ¡°Simple, I found the girl I truly love.¡± He said then smirked.


    ¡°Who is she?¡± I curiously asked.


    ¡°That¡¯s a secret. You don¡¯t have a right now to know things about me.¡±


    I chuckled. ¡°Really Quen?! Quit your pussy act bro! I know the reason why you are acting like this.¡±


    My friendship with Quen has a very strong foundation. It can¡¯t be ruined simply because of a girl.


    We will never break the bro code. I knew even before that he had a reason why he insists to end


    our friendship.


    shback


    ¡°Bro, I think, I have another memory that I lost aside from the day of the ident and the day I tried


    to kill myself.¡±


    I just arrived in America. My parents decided to send me here to help me recover from my ident


    and trauma. They even scheduled me to a known psychiatrist to help me cope up with my traumatic


    experience. I lost some of my memories but I am not sure if the only memory I lost is the day of the


    ident until the day Imitted suicide.


    They chose to send me here because the two most important people in my life were here. Ka,


    my sister, and Quen, my best friend.


    He swallowed hard and looked nervous. ¡°Why do you think so?¡±


    ¡°I tried to recall my stay in the Philippines. There is this girl that I am close with but I can¡¯t remember


    the name nor the face of it. The memories were a blur but I¡¯m sure that it¡¯s a girl I am close with. I


    asked my college friends but they also can¡¯t remember her.¡± I told him.


    I keep on seeing a girl in my dream. My heart is reacting crazily whenever I met the girl. It was


    blurry but I feel like all those are not an illusion. What I am seeing in my dreams was part of the


    memories I lost. I am sure of it because I always end up crying as if I lost a big part of my life. I¡¯m


    certain that she is real.


    ¡°Maybe because she doesn¡¯t really exist. Maybe it¡¯s a side effect from your ident.¡± Quen said but


    his voice is a bit unsure. He sounded more like he is making excuses.


    ¡°No bro, I¡¯m sure about it. For sure I talk to you about her.¡±


    He averted his gaze. ¡°I can¡¯t remember.¡±


    I look at him intently, he looks uneasy.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± I said in a serious voice.


    He nodded then he tried to change the topic. Since then, whenever I ask him about the mysterious


    girl, he always tried to change the topic. There are also times where he will avoid me.


    Quen¡¯s action is a giveaway for me. He definitely knows something. He is my best friend for Pete¡¯s


    sake! It¡¯s so impossible that he knows nothing about it. My parents and even my sister may miss


    something about my life but not Quen. He knew everything about me, even the things that


    happened in the Philippines.


    I just don¡¯t know why he is keeping it from me. Is it because I tried to kill myself? What¡¯s the


    connection of that girl in my suicide attempt? Did she do something for me to end my life? Is Quen


    trying to shun the girl from my life?


    ¡°Hi, Kade!¡±


    I look at the girl who suddenly clings to my arms. It was Hadley. She was the girl my best friend


    likes. Unfortunately, this girl ims that she is in love with me. It all started when Quen started to


    avoid me. He will ask this girl to entertain me because he needs to do something, but I know that


    was just an excuse.


    This girl confesses her feelings to me and I always rejected her. One of the reasons is because my


    best friend is in love with her. And also, because I still can¡¯t move on from the girl in my dream. But


    she just won¡¯t stop chasing me, until one day she did something so crazy that gave Quen a reason


    topletely avoid me.


    ¡°You traitor!¡± Quen went to me in pure rage and punch me in the face.


    It was so fast and I had no time to dodge his punch. Hadley screams because of shock from Quen¡¯s


    action.


    ¡°What the?! What¡¯s your problem bro?!¡± I hissed.


    ¡°Don¡¯t y innocent with me. I introduce you to Hadley for you to have a friend since you don¡¯t


    know anyone except Ka and me, but I did not ask you to steal her from me!¡± He said angrily.


    ¡°Quen what are you saying?! He is not stealing me from you because I was never yours!¡± Hadley


    butt in after she recovers from her shock.


    I saw the pain in Quen¡¯s eyes as he heard it straight from the girl, he likes but he tried to ignore her


    and he looks at me with more intensity.


    ¡°You know that I don¡¯t like her. She was the one who is chasing me. I never flirted back. You knew I


    will never steal a girl from you. I know she¡¯s off-limit and also you knew I was into the girl in my


    dream!¡± I defended myself.


    My words made Hadley feel offended. Her tears welled up and she walk out.


    ¡°Liar! If you did not give in to Hadley¡¯s chasing then why are you engaged with her?¡± Quen asked


    angrily.


    My eyes widen. ¡°What are you saying? I¡¯m not engaged to anyone, especially to her!¡±


    He smirked. ¡°Go and ask your parents about it. You just broke our bro code. I will never forgive


    you.¡±


    End of shback


    ¡°I¡¯m not a pussy! Stop calling me that.¡±


    I was back from reminiscing the past when I heard Quen¡¯s voice.


    ¡°Quen quit the act. I know why you are trying so hard to avoid me. It¡¯s about Ellie and the reason


    why Imitted suicide. I won¡¯t force you anymore. Just quit the act.¡±

 Chapter 40 FAMILY DAY

    Chapter 40 FAMILY DAY


    I decided to stop forcing Quen to tell me about my lost memories. I know he means well, he always


    did. He is my best friend after all. I still want to know the memories I lost but at the same time, I¡¯m


    scared to find them out. I feel like those memories will have a big impact on my rtionship with


    Ellie. I just can¡¯t figure out exactly what it is.


    Ellie and I were free from work because today is Saturday. Weekends are always dedicated to our


    twins. When the twins came out from the world, Ellie and I agreed that we can be very busy with


    work from Monday to Friday but our time during weekends will be solely for the twins. Our work


    can¡¯t disturb our weekends no matter what happens.


    And I think we did a great job because the twins are very understanding whenever Ellie and I were


    busy with work. Ellie sometimes goes home veryte for two or three consecutive days and the kids


    will not be able to see her presence during those days. They neverin because Ellie never


    missed a weekend with them.


    ¡°I¡¯m so excited to go to the amusement park!¡± Amelia said can¡¯t hide her excitement.


    ¡°Dad, did you ask Auntie Ka about our n today?¡± Alistair asked.


    I frowned. ¡°No. Why will I tell her?¡±


    Alistair pouted his lips. ¡°I¡¯m sure Auntie will want to go with us.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure she will but your Auntie is busy preparing for her business trip in the States,¡± I exined to


    him.


    Alistair''s eyes widen. ¡°She didn¡¯t tell me! How long will she stay there?¡±


    I just shook my head. Alistair has a crush on her Auntie Ka. I can¡¯t understand why she likes her


    Auntie?! Ka is nothing but a childish adult. She¡¯s my sister and our age difference are not thatProperty of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    huge but because of how she acts, I feel like our age gap is 5 or even 10 years.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know honey. But you know that your Auntie Ka will be the one who will handle the


    uing hotels in the States since we need to expand our hotels in America.¡± I exined to him.


    Since my engagement with Adelson was canceled, our hotels need to give special attention to our


    branch in the States. Adelson was dominating the hotels in the USA and we need to keep up with


    them. Ka was the one assigned the task. She is the best person for the job because she studied


    there.


    ¡°Why Alistair¡¯s face is like that?¡± Ellie said when she went down to the living room.


    The kids and I were waiting for her to finish with all her beauty routine so that we can finally go to


    the amusement park.


    ¡°It¡¯s because of Ka¡¯s business trip,¡± I told her.


    She just nodded as she understands the situation.


    ¡°Alistair you need to understand that Aunt Ka is not really staying here in the Philippines. She


    was only here because she wants to spend more time with you and Amelia. If you want, you can go


    with your Aunt Ka when you are already an adult. You can even study there if you want and even


    help her to manage the hotels.¡± Ellie said to encourage him.


    But Alistair pouted more. ¡°But I¡¯m not into hotels mommy. I want to be like you and I want to take


    over yourpany so that you can rx and spend more time with Daddy.¡±


    ¡°Oh my! My son is so sweet! I love you, baby!¡± Ellie said then she gave a warm hug to our son.


    That¡¯s my boy!


    ¡°Hey, mom! I want a hug too!¡± Amelia said while pouting her lips.


    Ellie chuckled and went to Amelia to give her a hug and a kiss.


    ¡°What about Daddy?¡± I said pouting my lips as well.


    The twins went to me and gave me a kiss and hug. I pouted again. ¡°What about you Ellie?¡±


    Ellie¡¯s face reddened. ¡°Stop acting like a child Ulie! Let¡¯s go!¡±


    I look at the twins and ask for their help. They went to their mother to convince her.


    ¡°Mom please can you also hug and kiss dad? Please!¡± Amelia and Alistair said showing their puppy


    look to their mom.


    ¡°Just kiss and hug me, Ellie, please,¡± I said in unison with the twins.


    Ellie can¡¯t do anything but agree with the request. She went to me and hugged me.


    ¡°You sneaky perv!¡± She whispered to me.


    I just chuckled and hug her tight. ¡°I envy the kids that¡¯s why I ask for a hug also.¡±


    "Whatever! Can we go now?¡± She said as she breaks from the hug.


    ¡°Sure, after this!¡± I said then gave her a quick kiss on the lips and then I went out of the house.


    ¡°You?!¡± I heard Ellie say as I was near the door.


    Ellie can¡¯t call me a pervert because she doesn¡¯t want the kids to hear it.


    ***


    The first thing that we did when we arrived at the amusement park is to dine in Amazon Grill


    because we haven¡¯t had our lunch yet. We also took the chance to n everything that we will be


    doing for the whole day.


    After our lunch, we went first to see the Ag EKsperience, the pride of this amusement park. Ag


    Eksperience is the first flying theater in the Philippines and thergest of its kind in the world! It¡¯s a


    nice activity, perfect for all, especially with the kids. They will learn to appreciate more the beauty of


    our country.


    The building for Ag Eksperience is a 9-story and 6,000-square meter ss-encased building. I


    must say that this building is an iconic addition to the amusement parkndscape. How I wish I was


    the one who designed it. I have huge respect for the people who did this project.


    ¡°I¡¯m so in love with this iconic design!¡± I can¡¯t help but utter.


    ¡°Should I be jealous of this building?¡± Ulie butted in.


    I just rolled my eyes at him.


    We went first to the Enchanted Forest. Through the chambers, an ancient talking map ushers us


    through the magical Hall of Elements. I can see the amazement in the eyes of the twins. The wizard


    wees us to the Enchanted Forest and reveals his mission-it was a task that can only be


    completed with the help of his might friend AGILA (theater).


    We proceed to the theater. In the theater, they will show the nature story unfold in stunningly vivid,


    larger than life aerial cinematography sshed across the enormous 544-square meter screen, and


    hear an 80-piece Philharmonic Orchestra render magical music that delights the spirit while they will


    lift off the ground via a moving seat equipped with multi-sensory special effects of wind, water, and


    eagle-like motion.


    It was a great experience. The kids enjoyed it the most. It was something that you will feel proud of


    for your country. A stationed photographer took photos of us.


    ¡°Here¡¯s the im stub sir. You can have your photos in any of the photo outlets.¡± The photographer


    told us.


    ¡°I got it! Thanks.¡±


    After that, we went to some kiddie rides like Air Pterodactyl, Bouncing Boulder, Boulderville


    Express, Dino Soar Us, Stone Eggs, Dodgem, and the Grand Carousel.


    The kids look tired from all the rides that they did but they look so happy. We bought some food to


    regain their energy. We never forget to take pictures of them on each ride.


    Ulie did some games to show off to kids. The kids were amazed when Ulie did the High Striker, this


    game shows the physical strength of a person. Ulie needs to heave therge mallet and hit the


    base to send the ball up the pole to the ring bell. And he did it! He won the prize and gave it to


    Amelia.


    He then looks for another game to win so that he can give the prize to Alistair. Ulie chose the


    Amazon Hoop. He needed to shoot the two balls in the hoop. He can¡¯t cross-throw the ball. I didn¡¯t


    know he was good at shooting. He shoots the ball effortlessly. He then asks Alistair to choose the


    prize.


    The night came and it was time for the Sky Wizardry show. It was a show of wondrous music and


    dazzling lights in the sky (fireworks), it was synchronized to the amusement park¡¯s theme song.


    It was a great experience for the kids. There are other shows that we¡¯re not able to watch. But we


    can always go back here to watch.

 Chapter 41 LEAVING

    Chapter 41 LEAVING


    We are all exhausted from yesterday¡¯s family bonding in the amusement park. But it was all worth it.


    The kids enjoyed the activities that we did yesterday. They are requesting to go back there and we


    promise them that we will surely go back there to try the other activities that we weren¡¯t able to


    experience because ofck of time.


    Even though we are still tired from yesterday¡¯s event, we still need to get up and get ready because


    we will be visiting the twin¡¯s grandparents and their favorite Auntie Ka.


    Ka is set to leave the country tomorrow. The twins will surely miss her, especially Alistair. And


    speaking of Alistair, he was the one who got up early because of today¡¯s event.


    ¡°Mom, can you be a little faster? The time is running and my time with Auntie Ka is lessened.¡±


    Alistair went to my room to tell me to hurry up. I am done with my skincare. I decided to just put a


    powder and lip tint to my cheek and lips to finish quickly or else Alistair will throw a tantrum, though,


    he is kind of doing it now.


    ¡°I¡¯m done, my prince. We can go now to see your Auntie Ka.¡± I told him in a teasing tone.


    He heaved a sigh of relief which made me chuckle. ¡°Finally, mom! Let¡¯s go!¡±


    ¡°Yes, boss!¡± I said whileughing.


    ¡°Dad, can we go faster pleased?¡± Alistair requested his dad.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry young man but I can¡¯t. I know you badly want to spend time with your Aunt Ka but you


    need to be patient. We can¡¯t speed up the car for that kind of reason because we need to be careful


    on the road or we might encounter an ident.¡± Ulie politely declines his son and at the same time


    exining to him why he can¡¯t do what he wants his dad to do.


    I know that Ulie is extra careful when ites to driving. And we all know where he ising from.


    I am d in a way because I can be at peace whenever he¡¯s driving.


    Alistair was in a hurry to go out of the car after his dad stop the car because we had already


    reached our destination. Ulie and I just shook our heads.


    Ulie was holding Amelia with his right arm while his left hand is holding my hand.


    ¡°Oh my! You guys look so sweet!¡± Ka noticed our hands the moment we arrived at the living


    room where they were staying.


    I was about to take my hands from Ulie¡¯s hand when he tightens his hold on my hand. I had no


    choice but to let him show everyone our holding hands moment.


    ¡°Stop with your teasing Ka! Don¡¯t make my Quinn ufortable.¡± Ulie warned his sister.


    I felt more ufortable with what he said. Ugh! Ulie!


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    ¡°OMG! You just called her MY QUEEN?! Don¡¯t tell me you guys are already official?!¡± Ka said


    with so much excitement while their parents are just waiting for us to announce our rtionship.


    ¡°Not yet! I¡¯m still courting my Quinn.¡±


    Ka was not able to stop herself from screaming from excitement. ¡°OMG! I¡¯m so happy for both of


    you! I hope that when I came back from the US, you guys are already official!¡±


    ¡°I will do my best to make it happen,¡± Ulie told his sister.


    While I became speechless. I just smile at them because I don¡¯t know what to answer them.


    Ka was spending her time with the twins, while Ulie and his dad are discussing something in his


    dad¡¯s study room. I was left with Auntie Adelia in the garden area. We were having tea while


    enjoying the view of their lovely garden.


    ¡°I¡¯m happy that you gave my son a chance to win you again.¡± Auntie Adelia said.


    I smile at her, feeling a bit shy. ¡°I promise myself not to love your son again because loving him


    means that I am giving my heart a chance to get hurt again.¡±


    ¡°When he hurt me before, I did my best to forget him. I almost did. I even forgot his name and our


    memories together. I just remember him again when you showed me his college picture during my


    second visit here.¡±


    shback


    Ulie¡¯s parents invited me again to meet their daughter, Ulie¡¯s sister named Ka.


    Ka was not able to meet mest week because she has a business meeting in Dubai. Ulie and


    Ka were the ones handling their branches in Asia. Though Ka was originally in charge of their


    branch in America, because of the big sess of their operation here in Asia, Ka was asked to


    assist his brother in handling their branch in Asia first before they go full st in America.


    Ka was very friendly. I was able to build a bond with her.


    Uncle Laertes asks Ka and Ulie to a quick meeting in his study room. I was left alone with Auntie


    Adelia.


    She showed me Ulie and Ka¡¯s pictures when they were younger.


    ¡°Did you know that Ulie studied here in the Philippines?¡± Auntie Adelia asked me.


    I shook my head. ¡°I have no idea.¡±


    ¡°Really? Where did you study in college?¡±


    ¡°I first studied in La Salle but I transfer to Mapua to study Architecture and Engineering in Mapua,¡± I


    told her.


    Auntie Adelia''s eyes widen. ¡°You studied in La Salle? Ulie finished college in La Salle. Maybe you


    guys met during those times.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure. I have vague memory in La Salle.¡±


    I love La Salle but not the memories I had in there. I already buried my memories from that


    university.


    ¡°You are right. But I¡¯m pretty sure that when you met him, I doubt that you will forget him. My son is


    popr in their university.¡± Auntie said full of pride.


    ¡°I¡¯ll show you his picture and I am sure that you will fall for him.¡±


    I just chuckled. ¡°Sure, Auntie!¡±


    I was stunned when I saw the picture that Auntie Adelia is referring to. I can¡¯t believe what I just


    saw.


    A painful memory that I am trying hard to bury suddenly popped into my mind.


    This is not happening! It can¡¯t be true! Ulie is the Ulysses I know when we were in college. The


    person who hurt me. The reason why I got scared to fall in love again!


    How can I be this stupid?! Why did I fail to recognize him! WHY?!


    ¡°Penelope are you okay?¡±


    I tried my best to gather myself and act as if nothing happened.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay Auntie. I just didn¡¯t expect that he is this handsome during his college days.¡±


    ¡°I told you! I¡¯m sure you will fall for him if you guys met at that time.¡±


    I just gave her a forced smile.


    End of shback.


    ¡°Oh yes, I remember that! I got panic when I noticed that you became pale. So that was the time


    that you recognize my son?¡±


    I nodded at her. ¡°Yes, Auntie. Now I realize that my mind might sessfully forget about him but not


    my heart. Because at that night, my heart recognizes him.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that, Penelope. I want you and my son to be happy. Though I must admit, I¡¯m a bit


    scared because you are one of the memories my son lost. I¡¯m scared that he might remember the


    things his mind trying so hard to forget.¡±


    I held her hand and squeeze it. ¡°I understand you, Auntie. I also don¡¯t want Ulie to remember. I


    would rather him lose our college memories forever than to risk the possibility of him,mitting


    the same mistake again, and that is to kill himself because of whatever reason he had when he tried


    tomit suicide.¡±


    ¡°I ask him to stop digging our past.¡±


    Auntie Adelia hugs me tightly. ¡°Thank you, Penelope, for understanding the situation!¡±

 Chapter 42 REALIZE

    Chapter 42 REALIZE


    "Ellie, the team is ready for our meeting."


    "Great, I''ll be in the conference room in a bit," I told Luna before I hang up the inte.


    I ask Luna to inform all the people involved in the Schulz project because I have a few instructions


    for them.


    The team fixes their seats when they saw me enter the conference room.


    "Good morning guy! I''m sorry for the sudden meeting." I started my speech.


    "We are all aware that we got the deal with Schulz Tech. This is another major project for CIC. But I


    am not the one heading this project."


    All of them look shocked from what I just announced. Normally, when CIC has a major project like


    LHI and Hearst, I was the one who is leading the project. While the order projects were headed by


    the respective head of the department.


    "Why Ms. Cabello? Are we expecting another major project?" Mr. Rosalez, our head engineer


    asked.


    I shook my head. "No, it''s not because of that. I just realize that I should also entrust you guys with


    these kinds of projects. I believe in all of you. I know you will do a great job in this project."


    "But will Mr. Schulz agree with this sudden arrangement?" Belle, our head architect asked.


    I nodded at them. "Yes, I already talked to him about it. And speaking of Mr. Schulz, he informed me


    that the supposed mediaunch for Schulz Tech''s first building here in the country is canceled. He


    will be out of the country because of an emergency. But they will still give PR materials to the media


    to make a noise for this big project."


    We wrap up the meeting with a few instructions.


    "When did you have a meeting with Mr. Schulz?" Luna asked the moment I sat on my chair.


    I did not notice that she was following me inside my office.


    "Few days after we signed the contract," I answered her.


    Luna looks at me suspiciously. "Did you tell Ulysses about it?"


    My forehead creased. "Why do I need to tell Ulie about it?"


    "Well, Jace told me that Ulysses and Mr. Schulz are used to be best friends but they are not on


    good terms right now."


    "Does you and your boyfriend don''t have anything to talk about but me and Ulie?" I said to tease


    her.


    I am not surprised when Luna and Jace announced two years ago that they are in a rtionship.


    Jace will take over his family''s business in three months. Luckily, Ulie found a recement for Jace.


    Jace will be working as Ulie''s assistant only until this month. He is now on his turnover period.


    "Well, your rtionship is taking forever to be official!" Luna fired back.


    I just rolled my eyes. "It''splicated."


    "Yes, I know. I heard from Jace. You owe me an exnation. You did not tell me that Ulie was the


    guy from your college days that hurt you! I thought I''m your best friend?!"


    I bit my lower lip because I''m guilty. "I''m sorry."


    "Do you not trust me anymore?" She said in a sad tone.


    "Of course not! It''s not because I don''t trust you. I just want to bury that secret with me." I exined


    to her.


    She sighed aloud. "Fine. I forgive you, but never keep a secret with me anymore, okay?!"


    I smile and nodded at her. "I''m sure you already know, thanks to your very credible source, I gave


    Ulie a chance. He is now courting me."


    Luna went to me and gave me a tight hug. "I had an idea, but I told Jace not to spill it because I


    want to hear it from you."


    I told Luna everything that happens to me and Ulie.


    "The nerve of that girl! It''s not like Ulie and her are in a rtionship!" Luna was more affected after I


    told her about my sudden encounter with Hadley.


    "Is that the reason why you will not handle the Schulz Tech project?"


    I nodded at her.


    After I decided to give Ulie a chance, I called Enrique and set a private meeting with him. For some


    reason, I trusted him. He was Ulie''s best friend after all. I know he is not a bad guy.


    shback


    I was already at the restaurant we agreed to meet.


    "Penelope."


    I look at the guy who went to the private room I reserved for this meeting.


    "Enrique, I''m d you agreed to meet with me."


    He politely nodded at me and went to his seat.


    After the food was served, I decided to tell him why I ask for this meeting.


    "I decided not to head the Schulz Tech building project."


    He looks at me intently. "I understand."


    I felt relief after hearing that from him.


    "I''m sorry about Hadley. I didn''t know that she will be back this soon." He said.


    "But you know that she was nning to take Ulie back to her?" I bravely asked.


    He chuckled. "Hadley has no right to take Ulysses back because he was never her, to begin with. It


    was just her obsession with him. I tried to stop her but I failed."


    "Are you okay?" I asked with full concern.


    He frowned. "What do you mean?"


    I bit my lower lip. "I heard from Ka that you like Hadley."


    He looks amused from what he heard. "She really told you that?"


    I nodded but I''m a bit confused because of his reaction.


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "Interesting."


    I was even more confused. "What''s with your reaction? Do you like Hadley or not?"


    "Hmmm, I did, or maybe I thought I did? I''m not sure anymore." He said.


    I don''t get him. Is he telling me that he was not sure about his feelings with Hadley?


    "Enough about me. We met today not because of me and Hadley right?"


    I chuckled then nodded at him. "Yes, I apologize for being nosy."


    "No worries."


    "As I was saying, I will not head this project because I want to avoid Hadley as much as I can. Ulie


    and I are trying to fix our rtionship." I confessed to him.


    "You are fixing things with Ulysses? Don''t tell me-"


    "Yes, I know about his amnesia," I said cutting what he is about to say.


    He nodded. "So, I guess you are a bit hurt when he did not recognize you when you saw him again


    after so many years. But why did you choose him to be the father of your child? Is it because you


    still love him despite the things he has done to you? I''m sorry, I long to ask you this question. I know


    he hurt you big time in the past."


    My eyes widen. "You knew about my rtionship with him in the past!"


    "Yes. He told me so much about you in the past." He confessed.


    "Why did you not tell him about me? I mean, you knew that one of the memories he has lost is me."


    I asked.


    "Because I don''t want him to remember you. You might be a trigger to his other memories." He


    honestly said.


    "You mean, the reason why hemitted suicide," I added on his statement.


    He bit his lip and nodded. "I''m sorry Penelope if I did not tell him about you, even when I found out


    that he got you pregnant. I was so scared when Ka told me the name of the girl he got pregnant."


    "You are scared for him because deep inside you love and treated Ulie as your family. Thank you


    Enrique for your genuine concern for Ulie."


    He averted his gaze and chose not to respond to my statement.


    "And to answer your question, I did not recognize Ulie when I had a one-night stand with him. I just


    found out that he was my first love when I saw his college picture in their mansion." I said instead.


    "Really?" He said sounds amazing.


    I nodded. "I tried my best to forget your best friend. The pain that he brought me in the past is no


    joke. And his appearance also changed. I mean the eyesses are gone and his physique


    improves a lot."


    "I''m d that you and Ulie are doing great with your rtionship especially now that you have your


    twins. I will do my best to help you with your situation with Hadley. I hope that you will love him no


    matter what happens. I know and I can attest how much he loves you now and even in the past."


    "In the past?"


    "Yes, Penelope. Though it''ste, he still realized that he was in love with you."


    End of shback

 Chapter 43 UNEXPECTED OFFER

    Chapter 43 UNEXPECTED OFFER


    We were having dinner when I noticed Alistair''s sad face.


    "Hey, Alistair is something wrong? You look sad." I can''t help but ask.


    "Mom is Auntie Ka has a boyfriend?" He said teary eye.


    I shook my head. "None that I know of. Why?"


    "We went to the airport to apany Aunt Ka then a guy came. They are arguing but I saw Aunt


    Ka''s face blushing whenever the guy said something to her. Then they went to the ne


    together." Alistair started to cry.


    I panic when Alistair began to cry. I went to him to console him. I was confused because I am not


    aware that Ka is seeing someone. I look at Ulie to ask for his confirmation.


    "Do you know anything about this?" I asked Ulie while still consoling Alistair.


    He shook his head. "I had no idea. I might ask mom and dad about it."


    "Grandma seems to like the guy for Aunt Ka. She asks him to take good care of her." Amelia


    said.


    She looks happy about it, a total opposite of what his twin brother felt.


    "Honey, I know you are sad because you feel like the guy will steal your Aunt Ka away from you


    but you are wrong. It doesn''t matter if your Aunt Ka has a boyfriend or not, she will love you just


    the same." I said to make my son stop crying.


    But my encouragement does not affect him. He was still silently crying.


    "You should be happy that your Aunt Ka is seeing someone. Because if she marries that guy


    then, you will have a cousin very soon." Ulie said instead.


    That made Alistair stop crying. He thought of it for a while. He seems satisfied with it. Thank God he


    finally stops crying. Alistair likes his Aunt Ka a lot. He became clingy and possessive to his Aunt.


    ***


    I was busy with some paper works when my inte rang.


    "Ellie, someone wants to meet you. She doesn''t have an appointment with you. I ask her to set an


    appointment first but she insists on meeting you now." Luna said.


    My forehead creased. "Do you know who the person is?"


    "Yes, she was none other than Hadley Adelson. Should I call the police?" Luna said in a sarcastic


    tone.


    I chuckled. "Don''t be silly. Just let here up here."


    "Seriously?!"


    "We can''t avoid her forever. I did my best but she is persistent. We had no choice but to face her." I


    just told her.


    "Ugh! The obsession of that woman is crazy!"


    A few momentster I saw Hadley walking into my office. She sat on the sofa near the ss


    window. I sighed and went to where she chose to sit.


    "What brings you here?" I asked her directly.


    "We are nning to expand our business here in the Philippines. I want you to be our Architect and


    Engineer for the project." She said with full confidence.


    What she offers me is a big project. If she was a normal client, I will immediately say yes to her, but


    that is not the case now. I need to think this through. We all know that she has a hidden motive.


    I was about to give her my answer when Luna knocked on my office door and went in carrying two


    coffees for me and Hadley.


    "Tell me if you need a backup. I''m just at the door." Luna whispered to me.


    Iughed a bit and I gently p her shoulder. "Don''t be so silly!"


    She just rolled her eyes and went out of my office. I just shook my head. Luna is always like that,


    she was very protective when ites to me.


    "So what''s your decision?" Hadley said a bit impatient.


    I sighed aloud then I look at her intently. "I''m sorry but I need to decline your offer," I said in a calm


    voice.


    Hadley''s eyes widen from disbelief. "You dare to decline my offer?! Do you realize how big my offer


    is and what my offer can do to yourpany?!"


    I nodded. "Yes, I know how big your offer is and the benefits that mypany can have when we


    received your offer. But, we have so much on our table for this year and we can''t apany


    another big project anymore." I told Hadley.


    Of course, what I said is just an excuse. We can always amodate clients, we are that efficient


    with our work.


    "Is that really your reason?" She said in an arrogant tone.


    "What do you mean?" I act confused.


    She rolled her eyes. "Oh, please! Don''t y dumb with me!"


    I still acted confused. "I don''t understand what you mean."


    She scoffed. "Is that what you did when you stole Ulie from me? Acting dumb so that Ulie will pity


    you and you will get what you want?!"


    "As far as I remember, I never stole Ulie from you because he was never yours," I said because I


    can''t take her insults anymore.


    "What did you say?!" She said a bit hysterical.


    I just rolled my eyes. "Ulie was never yours. He never loved you."


    "He was engaged to me!" She reasoned.


    I nodded. "Yes, he was. But it doesn''t mean anything to him. Even if he didn''t impregnate me, he will


    never be yours!" I said will full conviction.


    "You bitch! Homewrecker!"


    "Excuse me? Between the two of us, you are a better fit with what you just said." I answered back


    with a calm voice.


    "What did you just say?! Do you know who I am and what I can do to you and yourpany?" She


    said trying to intimidate me.


    "You won''t scare me with your shallow threat."


    She smirked. "Let''s see if you can still act mighty after I destroy you and yourpany."


    "If that happens then I will just marry Ulie and be a regr housewife," I said to irritate her more.


    She looks so pissed and just walks out.


    I acted calm and confident in front of her but deep inside I was scared. What she just said is true.


    The power and connections that her family has are no joke. She can easily destroy mypany if


    she wants to. Just like what Ulie did to RV five years ago.


    My knee weakened from thinking of those possibilities. Luna went inside my office. She looks


    worried about me.


    "What happens? Are you okay?"


    I look at Luna a bit teary-eyed. "I think I made a mistake. I push her button too hard. I''m scared." I


    admitted to her.


    "What do you mean? What exactly happens? She went out of your office fuming mad." Luna asked.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    I lower my head while biting my lips. "She offered me a project. Adelson Hotels will expand its


    business here in the Philippines. She wants CIC to handle the project."


    "Did you ept her offer?" She asked in a serious voice.


    I shake my head which makes Luna feel relieved.


    "I decline her offer of course. Only a stupid person will agree with her. No matter how big and


    tempting the project is, I will still refuse her, because we know that she was nning something."


    "Good to hear that. You better not ept her project. Your rtionship with Ulie is on the line. I am


    sure that is what her after."


    "Yes, but she threatens me that she will ruin me and mypany! We all know that she can make


    that happen, with her power and connection, she can easily make that happen!"


    "I''m scared not just for myself but for CIC. This is very important for my parents. They entrusted this


    company to me and this is their legacy. I can''t lose my parents''pany, Luna." I express my fear


    to Luna.


    "Hush now Ellie. That will never happen." Luna said to console me.


    "I''m scared Luna. I don''t want to end like RV." I said still in a hysterical state.


    Luna cupped my face. "Listen to me, Ellie. Nothing will happen with yourpany. Ulie will never


    let that happen. Hadley might be powerful and influential but Ulie has more power and influence


    than her. You don''t need to be scared. Ulie has your back."

 Chapter 44 WORRIES

    Chapter 44 WORRIES


    "Is mom going homete tonight, dad?" Amelia asks while looking at the door of their room.


    "Maybe a bitte. But don''t worry princess, mom wille home before you went to bed."


    I was also concerned about Ellie. She did not send me a message that she will be homete.


    Normally, she will send me and the kids a message that she will bete and that we don''t need to


    wait for her. Though, there were also days that she was a bitte so she didn''t bother to send us a


    message. But now is a bit different, she was 3 hourste from her usual schedule. She was


    supposed to be here at 6 pm.


    I decided to give her a call. After three rings, Ellie answers my call.


    "Ellie, where are you?" I asked.


    "I''m almost home. Sorry, I forgot to send you a message. Did you guys already have your dinner?"


    She asked.


    "Yes, we did. Though, the kids want to wait for you. But I don''t want to be scolded by you for not


    eating on time. Did you already have your dinner?" I asked.


    ¡°You did great Ulie. Our kids'' health is our priority. I haven''t had my dinner and I''m already in the


    basement. Let''s talk when I arrived."


    "Okay. We''ll wait for you here in the kids'' room." I said then drop the call.


    I went to the kids to update them about their mom''s whereabouts.


    "Your mom is already in the building. She will be here soon." I told them.


    "Did mom have her dinner already?" Alistair asked.


    I shake my head. "She hasn''t had her dinner yet."


    Amelia pouted. "That''s why I told you dad that we should wait for mom. Now she has to eat dinner


    alone."


    I pat her head. "Don''t worry princess, I will join your mom for dinner."


    "But you already ate dinner dad!" Alistair said.


    I smiled at him. "I don''t mind eating again for your mom."


    "A! Dad that''s so sweet of you!" Amelia said while giggling.


    "What did I miss?"


    We all look at the owner of that voice.


    "Mommy!" The twins both said then they went to their mom and kissed them.


    Ellie also kiss them on their cheeks and gave them a warm hug. I went to them and join them in the


    family hug.


    "Dad said you haven''t had your dinner mom," Amelia said after we break the hug.


    Ellie just nodded at Amelia.


    "We''ll join you, mom! We don''t want you to eat dinner alone." Amelia offered her.


    "You will eat dinner again?" Ellie asked.


    "Dad said he doesn''t mind eating more just to join you. We can''t again because we are already full


    but you and dad can eat dinner while I and Alistair will have our milk." Amelia suggested.


    Ellie smile at the twins and gave them another hug. "You guys are so sweet. I''m so blessed to have


    you guys with me."


    We all went to the dining area, I ask our helper to prepare dinner for me and Ellie while serving the


    twins their milk. While we all enjoying our little moment, I notice that Ellie is not in her usual self. I''m


    sure something is going on. I will just ask herter after we tend the kids.


    ***


    "Are you okay?" I asked her after the kids went to sleep.


    We are currently at the veranda. I invited Ellie because I want to ask her about her problem.


    She simply nodded.


    "Are you sure? I know you well Ellie. And even if you don''t tell me now, you know that I will still


    know it. I have a very reliable source when ites to you."


    She just rolled her eyes. "I know Ulie."


    I just look at her intently and wait until she finally opens up to me.


    Ellie sighed aloud. "Fine. You are right, even if I don''t tell you now, you will surely know it from your


    RELIABLE SOURCE." She said then rolled her eyes.


    I chuckled. "I''m waiting."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She rolled her eyes again. "Hadley went to my office. She offered me a project, a big one. As per


    her, Adelson Hotels will expand here in the Philippines. She wants me to get the project."


    "Did you ept her offer?"


    She scoffed. "What do you think?"


    I just shrugged. "I don''t know. But I guess you did not and now you are regretting it."


    Ellie''s eyes widen. "How dare you Ulie?!"


    Iughed aloud and then I kiss her on her cheek. "I''m just kidding Ellie."


    She pouted. "That''s not funny Ulie!"


    "I''m sorry my Quinn. That''s a bad joke. Don''t be angry with me, I will not do it again." I said while


    hugging her.


    "Whatever Ulie!"


    "I''m sorry my Quinn. I just want to make the situation lighter. Then what happens?"


    Ellie went back to her serious mode. I already have a hunch but I want to hear it from her first.


    "I decline her offer, and I think she got offended because she didn''t expect that I will reject her offer.


    But really?! Does she really think that I will be blinded by her offer? No matter how big the project is,


    I will always choose peace over any big project."


    I did not say anything. I just let her rant and release what she needed to release on her chest.


    "And you know what she did after?! She threatens me! She said that she will destroy mypany! I


    told her if that happens, I will just marry you and be a in housewife. She was mad at me even


    more because of what I said."


    Tempting. I can''t help but be tempted by what she just said. I can''t help but imagine Ellie as a in


    housewife. I''m sure that the kids will love that. The kids are always worried about Ellie especially


    when she came home veryte. That is one of the reasons why Alistair wants to take over Ellie''s


    "Hey, are you still listening Ulie?"


    I was back to reality when I heard Ellie''s irritated voice.


    I scratched my head and smile awkwardly at her. "I''m sorry. I can''t help myself but imagine my


    Quinn as a in housewife."


    Ellie looks at me with disbelief. "What the?! Ulie, I''m serious about it. You know how much the


    company means to me. You don''t know how scared I am right now because I know that Hadley can


    make her threat to me happen."


    I went to Ellie to console her because she starts to cry. "Hush now my Quinn. I will never let that


    happen to you and yourpany. I will deal with her when that happens. I will destroy their


    company before they can touch you."


    "You don''t need to do that! And Adelson is different from RV."


    "Yes, they are different when ites to status and reputation but I can still make it happen. I will


    do everything to protect you." I said with full sincerity.


    Ellie cupped my face. "Thank you for your concern Ulie but I don''t want you to do those dirty tricks


    again. Just like my parents, they also invested so much in theirpany. And I don''t want them to


    be ruined simply because of some obsession. It''s not worth it. Just let God avenge us, we don''t


    need to repay evil from evil. I can''t forget about what happened to RV. I should have stopped you


    from destroying theirpany, but I let my anger consume me. I''m d that you did nothing when


    you heard that they are trying to build theirpany again."


    I heard about RV too. I was nning to stop them from starting again but Ellie told me to just let


    them be. Mr. Ventura already retired. His health deteriorates after what I did to theirpany. It was


    his son who was trying to rebuild theirpany. They change theirpany name since RV is


    blocked from bigpanies because of what I did.


    "Fine. I will do my best not to ruin them. But you need to promise me that you will rx and you will


    stop thinking about her threats. You need to trust me. I will never let anyone hurt you nor your


    company."


    She smiles at me and nodded. I kissed her on her forehead and hug her tight.


    I need to have a serious talk with Hadley.

 Chapter 45 ADVISE

    Chapter 45 ADVISE


    After Hadley went to my officest time, my initial n was to avoid her because I know her


    presence will bring chaos to my family, especially Ellie.


    I don''t know why Hadley likes me so much. Many guys are after her. One of them is Quen. Hadley''s


    feelings for me became an obsession to the point that she convinced her parents to arrange our


    marriage.


    I was not able to cancel it before because LHI ns to expand in America, and Adelson is a great


    help for us. I never consider it, but I don''t want to rush things since the benefits are great.


    If only I have my memories with Ellie, I would have rejected the marriage offer with the Adelsons


    before I went back to the Philippines.


    I know that regretting it is useless now. What I can only do is to settle things with Hadley once and


    for all.


    I was back from deep thinking when I heard Nick''s voice.


    "Hey, dude! Are you okay?" Nick asked.


    I have a meeting with him today about our partnership and also because I want his advice about my


    current problem with Hadley. Nick went to the sofa area of my office, where we did our meeting. I


    followed him there.


    "I''m not okay, dude. Hadley is now making a move and she''s targeting Ellie." I shared with him.


    "I''m not surprised with her move. Ellie is an easy target for her." Nick said.


    I sighed aloud. "I know. That''s why I''m thinking of meeting her."


    Nick''s forehead creased. "Why do you need to meet her?"


    "I need to settle things with her and to tell her not to approach Ellie."


    "I don''t think that''s a good idea dude," Nick said.


    I frowned. "Why is that?"


    Nick smirked. "Obviously, she was targeting Ellie for you to notice her. If you will ignore all her


    schemes then she will think that her ns are aplete fail."


    I shake my head. "No, Nick. I can''t just stay here and be quiet knowing that Hadley is making things


    hard for Ellie."


    "Then help Ellie without them knowing."


    "If you were just there when Ellie confess to me how scared she is when Hadley threatened her that


    Hadley will destroy herpany, you will not tell me that," I said to Nick.


    "Then do you think that talking to Hadley will make a difference?" Nick asked me.


    "Of course it will make a difference! A huge one. I will bring Hadley to her ce. I will wake her up


    to her delusion."


    Nick shakes his head. "If you do that, you might make things worst. Hadley''s obsession with you is


    no joke!"


    I messed my hair up because of frustration. Hadley is a serious case. I honestly don''t know what to


    do with her. I already told her the first time she confesses to me that I don''t like her romantically but


    she keeps on insisting on herself to me.


    If not for Quen, I will not be nice to her and tolerated her schemes when I was in the States. But


    now is different. Hadley is messing with Ellie. I can''t tolerate her antics anymore.


    "But I can''t tolerate her anymore. Aside from Ellie, I know that whatever her n is, my twins will


    also be affected." I told Nick frustratedly.


    "Just ask your friend Enrique to bring Hadley back to America with him," Nick said in a sarcastic


    tone.


    I smirked. "I don''t think I can ask him that. He was busy chasing someone right now."


    Nick furrowed. "What do you mean?"


    "Quen confessed to me that he is pursuing my sister. He followed Ka to America when he found


    out that Ka will stay in America for a while."


    Iughed to myself when my parents told me that the person Alistair is jealous of is none other than


    my best friend Quen. I called Quen upon knowing that he was the guy, Alistair is referring to.


    Quen confessed to me that he is in love with my sister and he is pursuing Ka right now. The


    reason why Ka has a sudden business trip in America is that she wants to avoid Quen. But what


    she didn''t expect is that Quen will follow her wherever he wants to go.


    Nick looked shocked from what I told him. "I thought she likes Hadley?" Nick can''t help but ask.


    I smiled at him. "He did or as per him, he just thought he did."


    Nick looks more confused. "I still don''t get it."


    "Quen thought that what he felt for Hadley is romantic love, but when he fell in love with my sister,


    he realizes that what he felt about Hadley is not love. Hadley is still special to him because Quen


    treated Hadley as a family." I exined to him.


    "That''s good to hear." Nick utter.


    "What?"


    He cleared his throat. "I mean, now that he realized that he was not in love with Hadley, it only


    means that you guys can now reconcile."


    "Will you not be jealous if that happens?" I joked.


    He chuckled. "Of course not, dude! I know how close you are to him. And I am not that obsessive of


    you unlike that friend of yours."


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Iughed aloud. "You are right! But I just hope that you and Quen will also be friends."


    "I doubt that it will happen. We are destined to be strangers to each other."


    I just shook my head.


    "How''s your courting with Ellie? I think the best solution here is to marry her." Nick said.


    "I would love to marry Ellie now but I don''t want to rush her. She was still traumatized by what I did


    to her in the past. That is why I understand her and I am willing to wait for her no matter how long it


    is."


    "You sounded so cheesy, dude! Who would have thought that the great Ulysses Escarrer will fall so


    hard to a girl? Girls are always chasing you and not the other way around." Nick started to tease


    me.


    "I don''t care if I sounded so cheesy. I love Ellie so much. And contrary to your statement, I knew that


    someone already owned me, I just don''t know who that is, until I met Ellie."


    "Whatever you say, dude! But I guess instead of talking to Hadley, it''s better for you to just focus on


    winning Ellie''s heart. Once you guys became official, I''m sure that Hadley will finally know her


    ce."


    ***


    After the conversation I had with Nick, I suddenly became confused. I wanted to talk to Hadley but


    Nick has a point. Talking to Hadley might anger her more and Ellie will be the one who will be most


    affected.


    I don''t know what to do anymore. I want to settle the issue in a peaceful way as possible. I don''t


    want anyone to get hurt.


    I grab my phone and decided to call Quen.


    "Hey, bro! What''s up?" Quen answered.


    "I need your advice bro. You know Hadley well more than anyone else."


    "What''s with her? Did she do something to you?" Quen sounded concerned.


    "Not to me but Ellie," I told him.


    "What did Hadley do to Ellie?"


    I told him about my conversation with Elliest night and my conversation with Nick a while ago.


    "Nick has a point. But I can''t just wait for Hadley''s action and do nothing. I should have canceled


    that freaking engagement if only I knew that I will be meeting Ellie!"


    "Don''t listen to that friend of yours. He just wants you to avoid Hadley for his own advantage." Quen


    snort.


    My forehead creased. "What do you mean by that?"


    "Don''t mind what I just said. We are getting away from the main issue. As I was saying, don''t listen


    to his advice. You should settle things with Hadley as early as possible." Quen said.


    "But don''t you think that it''s better if I convince Ellie to make our rtionship official just to make


    Hadley stop from whatever her n is?" I asked him. This idea from Nick is not bad.


    "I thought you are willing to wait for Ellie? Why do you want to pressure her now?"


    "Of course, I am willing to wait for Ellie but the situation calls for it." I defended myself.


    "I don''t know bro. But if you tell that to Ellie, it will sound like you are taking advantage of the


    situation. And if you force her to be in a rtionship with you even though she is notpletely


    healed, then your rtionship with her might not end well."


    Quen has a point! I don''t want to pressure nor force Ellie. I don''t want her to think that I was taking


    advantage of the situation. It will bring us no good.


    "So you think talking to Hadley is a better option? But what if it will only lead to making her angrier?"


    "If that happens, you need to convince your sister to go back to the Philippines so that I can help


    you in dealing with Hadley."


    "That''s easy. Once Ka found out about Hadley''s scheme, she will surely fly back here to protect


    Ellie."


    "I know that''s why convince your sister so we can go back to the Philippines."


    "Fine. I''ll tell her to go back here. I know you have many things to do here."


    "Okay bro, I''ll see you soon!"


    My conversation with Quen enlightened me of what I should do. First, I talked to my sister and


    convince her to go back here to the Philippines because I will be needing Quen''s help in handling


    Hadley.


    She was in denial that she was the reason why Quen went back to the US. But after asking her kelp


    for Ellie, I finally convinced her to go back here.


    The next thing I need to do is to ask Hadley to meet me. I grab my phone and texted her.


    To: Hadley Adelson


    Hi Hadley, can we meet?

 Chapter 46 SECRET MEETING

    Chapter 46 SECRET MEETING


    Hadley did not have a second thought when I asked her to meet me. I wanted my meeting with


    Hadley to be a secret to everyone, so I chose a restaurant where it can give us privacy.


    I was already in the restaurant''s private room when Hadley texted me that she was there. A few


    momentster, I saw Hadley enter the room.


    "Hi, Hadley! I''m d that you agree to meet me." I greeted Hadley.


    I assist Hadley to her seat then returned to my seat. I asked the waiter to get our orders.


    "You know that I can''t say no when ites to you," Hadley said in a seductive tone.


    I just smile at her. When our orders came, Hadley and I started to eat. It was so quiet. No one is


    taking the initiative to start a conversation.


    I cleared my throat. "I head you offer Ellie a big project?" I decided to break the silence.


    Sheughed. "Well, it''s obvious that she already went to you. What did she say to you? I''m sure she


    already badmouthed me to you."


    I shook my head. "Ellie is not that kind of person, Hadley. It was me who decided to cancel my


    engagement with you. You already know from the very start that I don''t want to marry you."


    I saw the pain in Hadley''s eyes. I am well aware that the words I uttered can hurt her, but it was the


    truth. She has to hear it. I was sorry because I can''t give her the love that she wants from me. Even


    before we met, someone already owns my heart, I may not remember her in my mind but not my


    heart. My heart never forgets Ellie.


    "Kade you are only saying that before because you know that Quen likes me. He was your best


    friend and I know that you don''t want to hurt him. If that girl didn''t seduce you and made herself


    pregnant, you will learn to love me. Especially now that Quen is in love with your sister." Hadley


    sounded delusional.


    I finally understand, why Hadley was so persistent in pursuing me. All this time she thought that the


    reason why I can''t ept her feelings is because of Quen. Though it was one of the reasons why I


    am not epting her feelings, still, the main reason why I can''t ept her is that I really don''t like


    her as a woman. I only like her because she was close to Quen.


    I shake my head. "No, Hadley. I''m really sorry but I don''t like you romantically. You are a great


    woman. Quen told me how amazing you are as a person and I agree with him. It''s just that my heart


    belongs to someone else."


    Tears started to fall from Hadley''s eyes. I want tofort her but I stop myself because I am afraid


    that she will give meaning to it.


    "If you believe that I''m an amazing person then why can''t you love me? I love Kade so much! I am


    willing to do everything for you to love me!" Hadley started sobbing.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "I''m sorry Hadley, I am not the right person for you. I''m sure that there is someone out there who is


    willing to give you the love that you deserve." I told her to somehowfort her.


    "But you are the only guy I love. I don''t love them. Kade, can''t you just give me a chance? Just open


    your heart to me, I''m sure that in time you will learn to love me." She pleaded.


    I feel sorry for Hadley. But I know that if I give in to what she wants, in the end, she will just get hurt


    more. I am not the person meant for her. She needs to ept that for her to move on.


    "I''m sorry Hadley, I can''t. I am in love with someone else." I honestly told her.


    "You love that woman? But why? I''m more beautiful and sessful than her! What does she have


    that I don''t Kade? Tell me!" Hadley was a bit hysterical.


    I wanted to tell her that Ellie is more beautiful than her but I chose not to hurt her more.


    "I honestly don''t know what to tell you. All I know is, Ellie was the only person who can own my


    heart. Remember when I told you in the past that I feel like I was forgetting someone close to my


    heart? I was right."


    Hadley''s eyes widen. "She was part of your lost memory?"


    I smile and nodded my head. I knew that Hadley also knows my condition. Quen will not keep that


    from her. That is how special she is for Quen. I''m also sure that Quen asks help from her when


    Quen started to avoid me.


    "Do you remember her now?" She asked almost in a whisper.


    I shook my head. "No, but Ellie told me about my past with her."


    "What if she was just making a story? What if she was aware of your condition and she took


    advantage of that? Did you just believe her that easily?"


    "Ellie will never do that to me. It was me who was chasing after her and not the other way around."


    "Kade, don''t be so naive! That can be part of her n." She hissed.


    I chuckled. "You don''t need to worry about that Hadley because Quen already confirmed it to me.


    She was one of the memories Quen wants me to forget."


    Hadley''s forehead creased. "But why would he want you to forget your memories with that girl?"


    I shrugged. "No, idea. He still doesn''t want to tell me."


    "But why?"


    "Beats me." I just said.


    Hadley started to be suspicious again. It looks like she is starting to make a story out of it.


    "Then maybe you should avoid her Kade! If Quen is keeping your past with her a secret then it only


    means that she''s not good for you."


    I smirked at her. "We have a child remember?"


    Hadley started to pout her lips. "She really nned this! I''m very sure of it. That woman is not good


    for you! Kade just let me handle her."


    "Hey, Hadley stop right there. I don''t know why Quen doesn''t want me to remember my past but


    Quen knew how much I love Ellie and he approves of my rtionship with her. You don''t need to


    worry about us. What I want you to do is to forget about me and to move on. Stop approaching Ellie


    because it was me who hurt and not her. Don''t pass your anger on her." I told her sincerely.


    Hadley went back to her sad face. "But she was the reason why can''t you love me. If she will


    disappear-"


    I cut her off. "Don''t even go there, Hadley. I will not let anyone hurt Ellie. I will deal with you if you


    hurt her." I warned her.


    "You will fight with me just for her?" She asked sounded so hurt.


    "I will do everything for Ellie. I love her that much."


    Hadley nodded. It was a relief for me because it seems like she already understands my point.


    "Fine. If that''s what you want. I will try not to mess with her. But don''t force me not to love you.


    because believe me I have been doing that for five years. If forgetting my feelings for you is that


    easy, I will not be here chasing you. I love so much Kade. And it hurts me so much every time you


    are telling me how much you love her. I hope she knew how lucky she is to have a guy like you in


    her life." She said while sobbing.


    I went to her to hug her. "Thank you Hadley for understanding. I''m sorry for hurting you. I don''t want


    to hurt you but I feel like you really need to hear it for you to start to move on from your feelings


    from me. I am not the guy for you. And I am very sure that someday you will meet someone who will


    give you the love that you deserve. You deserve to be loved."


    Hadley wiped her tears. "Thank you, Kade."


    After our very emotional conversation, we resumed our lunch. We catch up like normal friends


    would do. Most of our topic is about Quen and Ka. She provided me with the details that I missed


    out on from those two. Though Ka is not treating Hadley well, Hadley still is rooting for her for


    Quen. She understands why my sister hated her.


    My sister is secretly in love with my best friend. Quen was the reason why my sister chose to study


    in the US. But because of overfamiliarity, Quen thought that what he felt about my sister is purely


    tonic, that he only sees her as a younger sister because she was his best friend''s sister. As per


    Hadley, Quen only realizes his real feelings for my sister when my sister told him that she had


    already given up on him. That act of Ka woke up Quen from his denial and the rest is history.


    "Is it okay to make a request?" Hadley ask.


    "What do you want?" I ask because I can''t agree easily without hearing her request first.


    "Can you apany me until we reach my car? I just want to make the most out of my time with


    you. I feel like it will be thest time that I can spend time alone with you." She said shyly.


    I smile and nodded at her. It was just a small request. "Sure. Let''s go?"


    Hadley nodded happily. We both went out of the restaurant. I apany her until we reach her car


    as she requested.


    "I want to stop the time right now. Thank you for epting my request Kade."


    "I should be the one to thank you. I know I hurt you but you never hated me. Thank you for


    understanding Hadley."


    "Last hug?" Hadley requested again.


    Iugh and nodded. I went to her and hug her.

 Chapter 47 SECRET DATE

    Time flies so fast. Surprisingly, the days have gone down quietly. It was different from what I expected since Hadley went to my office.


    Ulie assures me that he will handle Hadley. And I think he did great based on what is happening right now. I just hope that it will bepletely settled especially now that I am ready to ept Ulie again in my heart.


    Since then Ulie was the only man I have loved. Ulie was the one who broke my heart, but he is also the one who fixed it.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    I believe in love and I also believe in marriage because I witness that true love exists from my parents. But at some point, I shove off the idea of falling in love and marriage because of the heartache that I experienced.


    And now, my heart is ready to ept the only man my heart allowed to own me.


    I was back from daydreaming when I heard Luna¡¯s voice.


    ¡°Earth to Penelope!¡±


    I ignore her joke and asked her instead. ¡°What is it?¡±


    Luna handed me an invitation.


    ¡°You are invited to Jace¡¯spany party. It will be his debut as the new CEO of theirpany.¡± Luna exined to me.


    I look at the invitation. The event will happen next week.


    We were all surprised when we found out about Jace''s real status. He was the only son of Elinor and Harris Nu?ez. They are the owner of a shopping mall here in the Philippines. Their mall is known for the elite.


    He was named the prodigal heir of Nu?ez Corporation. His parents wanted to teach him to act like a real businessman, that is why they let him live on his own.


    Living on his means no support from Jace''s parents.


    He applied to LHI and fortunately, Ulie hire him as his assistant and secretary.


    Jace has proven himself to his parents that is why now he is ready to take over thepany.


    Lana and Jace had a misunderstanding when we found out about Jace''s real identity. Jace had been chasing Luna for quite a while. Good thing Luna learns to forgive Jace for keeping his identity a secret to her.


    "Some heads up Penelope, Hadley will also attend the event," Luna said a bit uneasy.


    "Okay?"


    Luna sighed. "Jace wanted to tell you that he has no choice but to also send an invitation to Hadley because they are family friends."


    I smiled at Luna. "Tell him it''s okay. It was hispany''s party after all. But thank you for considering my situation with her. I appreciate his sincerity."


    "Don''t worry friend, I will not leave you in that event. I will not let that girl go near you. And I''m sure that Ulysses will also protect you from her." Luna said to assure me.


    "I know. I trust you both."


    ***


    "Ready?"


    I smile at Ulie and epted his hand. He tightens his hold on my hand and puts it to his lips.


    "You look amazing my Quinn. I''m sure that you will be the most beautiful at the party tonight." Ulie said while looking at me intently.


    My face reddened from Ulie''spliment.


    "Let''s just go. Start ttering me." I said shyly.


    Ulie kiss my temple. "I did not say it just to tter you. I''m simply saying the truth."


    I rolled my eyes. "Whatever!" I said to stop myself from giggling.


    Uliepliment brings butterflies to my stomach. He alwayspliments me but I can''t make myself used to it. I still feel shy whenever he makes me feel like I''m the most beautiful woman in the world. I feel like I''m back from being a teenager.


    He chuckled then he guided me to the door.


    The event will take ce in Laertes Hotel. Luna is already texting asking my location. She is waiting for me in the lobby of the hotel.


    I guess Luna can''t wait any longer because now she is calling me.


    "Where are you?" Luna asked me as soon as I answered her call.


    I rolled my eyes. "We are on our way. As far as I know, we are not yette. Calm down okay?"


    "How can I calm down? I already saw the witch!" She hissed.


    "Hey, stop calling her names. And focus on your boyfriend instead of focusing on her. Your boyfriend needs your support." I told her.


    "I am supporting him okay?" Luna defended herself.


    "Oh, I can''t see the support you are giving him." I tease her.


    "That is because you are not yet here. Tell Ulysses to hurry up. And also, just to give you another head up, there are many media here and they are all enjoying thepany of the witch. You and Ulysses better be careful." Luna warned me.


    "Thanks for the heads up. We are almost in the hotel I need to drop this call." I said to her.


    "Fine, fine. I''m just here in the lobby."


    "Got it! Bye! See you in a bit."


    "Your friend can''t wait huh?" Ulie noticed.


    I sighed aloud. "She is being protective because Hadley is in the event."


    Ulie just smiles at me. "You don''t need to worry about her anymore my Quinn. I already settled things with her." He said assuring me.


    I nodded at him. "I believe you."


    As soon as we reach the lobby, Luna went to us.


    "I''m d you guys are here! I''ve been waiting for ages." She said a bit overreacting.


    I rolled my eyes. "Stop being OA okay?"


    Luna pouted. "I''m just worried okay."


    "We appreciate your concern but I assure you, I already settled things with Hadley. You don''t need to worry about her." Ulie said to give assurance to Luna.


    "I don''t think so," Luna said.


    I just shook my head. We all proceed to the grand hall where the venue of the event is.


    And just like what Luna said, there are a lot of media invited to this event. As soon as they saw us entering the red carpet going to the photo wall, they all went to us.


    The media bombarded us with questions.


    "Mr. Escarera are you aware that Ms. Adelson is also in this event?"


    "Ms. Cabello, what is your reaction now that Ms. Adelson is here in the country?"


    "Ms. Cabello, how is your rtionship with Ms. Adelson?"


    "Mr. Escarera is it okay to escort Ms. Cabello knowing your fiance is also in the same?"


    "Mr. Escarrer is it true that you had a secret meeting with Ms. Hadley?"


    "Mr. Escarrer did you meet Ms. Hadley to talk about your wedding?"


    "Ms. Cabello are you aware that Mr. Escarrer is secretly meeting Ms. Adelson?"


    Those questions caught me off guard. I tried to remain calm and poker face as long as I could.


    Ulie has a secret meeting with Hadley? I didn''t know that! Ulie didn''t tell me about that.


    Is that what he meant by when he said that he already settled things with Hadley?


    Why didn''t he tell me about it? Are they really pushing through their supposed wedding?


    I suddenly felt uneasy.


    "Are you okay?" Ulie asked me.


    I averted from his gaze. "I''m okay. I will just go with Luna. Excuse me." I coldly said then went to where Luna is.


    Luna went ahead with us when we reached the red carpet.


    "Luna," I called her.


    "Hi, Penelope!" Jace greeted me.


    I suddenly felt shy because I didn''t notice his presence. To think that this is his party.


    "Hi Jace, congrats!" I just said.


    "I''m d you are here. My girlfriend can''t calm down because she was waiting for you."


    I scratch my head because of my best friend. Luna was supposed to give her full attention to Jace since he was hosting this event.


    I feel like I am stealing Luna from him.


    "I''m sorry about that. I told her to stop being protective, that I am fine but you know how Luna thinks."


    Jace chuckled. "Don''t worry Ipletely understand. She already makes it clear that it''s you before anyone else. I already epted the fact that you are the number person in her heart and I onlye second." He said in a teasing tone.


    "Should I be sorry for you?" I tease him back.


    "No, don''t worry. As long as it''s not a guy. I''m good. Plus I know that it won''t be for long when you and Ulysses be official. When are you nning to say yes to him?" He curiously ask.


    "Did Ulie ask you to fish some information from me?"


    I asked him.


    Heughed. "Of course not! I''m just curious."


    "The witch is going near us," Luna whispered.


    I just shook my head.


    "Ms. Hadley!" One of the media calls her.


    We saw Hadley smile at the guy from the media.


    "Can I interview you for a second?" The media ask.


    Hadley politely nodded. "Sure."


    "We saw Mr. Escarrer a while ago. Did you see him already?"


    "Yes. We greeted each other." Hadley answered.


    My forehead creased. She looks so confident and assured. Did I miss something?


    "Is it true that you have a secret date with Mr. Escarrer? And is it also true that you guys are nning to continue your supposed wedding?"

 Chapter 48 PHOTOS

    Chapter 48 PHOTOS


    ¡°Is it true that you had a secret date with Mr. Escarrer? And is it also true that you guys are nning


    to continue your supposed wedding?¡±


    Hadley smiles sweetly at the reporter.


    ¡°It already came from you, it''s a secret date so I can''t give you the details,¡± Hadley said which


    makes the reporter more curious.


    ¡°So you are not denying that you had a secret date with Mr. Escarrer?¡± The reporter maliciously


    asked.


    ¡°If I tell you that it''s not true, will you believe me?¡± Hadley asked the reporter instead.


    The reporterughs and shakes his head. ¡°We have proof that of your secret date with Mr. Escarrer


    so it''s hard not to believe it.¡±


    ¡°Oh really?!¡± Hadley acted shocked by the reporter¡¯s statement.


    ¡°She can¡¯t be an actress, she''s so obvious with her acting,¡± Luna whispered, and then she rolls her


    eyes.


    I ignore Luna¡¯s remark because all my attention was on Hadley and the reporter.


    I saw the reporter showed something on his phone to Hadley. If my guess is right, the reporter is


    showing Hadley the evidence of their secret date.


    I can feel the pain that is starting to build up in my heart. I somehow feel cheated and betrayed.


    Why didn''t he tell me about the secret date he had with Hadley?


    Is this his mean by settling things with Hadley? Are they back together? But isn¡¯t he courting me?


    My mind and my heart are in chaos. I know I should stop listening to them but I don''t why my feet


    won''t make any move.


    ¡°So will you still deny it, Ms. Hadley?¡± The reporter smirked.


    Hadley smile at him. ¡°I guess I can¡¯t deny it anymore. But how did you guys manage to get that? I


    mean Ulie nned our date well.¡±


    ¡°Yes, he did n it well that is why what we only know is you guys had a secret date but not the


    details. So care to share the details with us?¡± The reporter hopeful asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry but I can¡¯t tell you details. It''s still a secret between me and Kade. I hope you guys can


    give that to us.¡± Hadley sweetly said.


    ¡°Fine, but is it about your supposed wedding? Is it safe to assume that it will finally happen anytime


    soon?¡± The reporter still tries to get information from Hadley.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry but my mouth is zipped.¡± Hadley just said.


    ¡°Silent means yes.¡± The reporter insists.


    Hadley just smiled at her. It was as if she is confirming it.


    ¡°Fine, I just take that as a yes.¡± The reporter said thenughed.


    ¡°Anyway, have you met the Escarrer twins?¡± The reporter asks Hadley again.


    My forehead creased. Why is he asking her about my children?


    ¡°I haven''t met them but Kade showed me the twins¡¯ picture and they are so cute. I would love to hug


    and kiss them¡±


    I will never allow you to be near my children. I told myself.


    ¡°What the?!¡± Luna reacted.


    ¡°Is it okay with you to be their stepmother?¡±


    What the?! She can¡¯t!!! My mind is screaming in anger.


    ¡°I would love to but they have their mother. Kade and I can just make kids of our own.¡± Hadley


    answered.


    I can¡¯t exin the pain that my heart is feeling right now. Just thinking that Ulie will have children


    with other women feels like I''m being killed.


    ¡°So you guys are really nning your wedding?¡± The reporter caught her off-guard.


    Hadley puts her hands on her lips while the reporter isughing. He looks like he won a lottery for


    getting a big scoop.


    ¡°Hadley!¡± Someone called Hadley.


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    ¡°I would love to talk more to you but I need to go to my friend,¡± Hadley said then she said her


    goodbyes.


    The reporter obliges because he already got what he wanted.


    ¡°Did you know about that secret date Jace?¡± Luna started to interrogate her boyfriend.


    ¡°I know nothing about it. I was busy with the turnover. Maybe the new secretary knows it. I will ask


    him for the details.¡± Jace assures us.


    ¡°No need to do that Jace, thank you for the concern but I will handle this issue with Ulie alone,¡± I


    told them.


    ¡°Friend, you know I will always be here for you. If what she ims is true, just know that I am just a


    call away.¡± Luna said with full of concern.


    I just smile at her.


    ¡°But I doubt that it''s true Penelope. I mean, Ulysses might really set a meeting with her but I''m sure


    that it''s not about their supposed wedding. Just trust Ulysses. I know how much he loves you.¡± Jace


    said to assure me.


    I nodded at him.


    I don''t know what to say or what to react. All I know is that I need to know all the details of that


    secret date. I need to hear it from Ulie.


    Ulie and I didn''t have the opportunity to talk at the event. Both of us were busy talking to other


    businessmen. And I also think that it''s not a good venue to talk. His exnation can still wait.


    I saw many reporters try to approach him but he never allowed anyone to talk to him. Even when


    we were on the red carpet, he did not answer any questions that the reporters are throwing at him.


    I guess he was used to it already and he knows how to handle them.


    When we reached home, we both went to the twins. They told us how their days went. We bond


    with them for a while.


    After the twins went to sleep I ask Ulie to talk. We went to our usual spot in the penthouse.


    I look at Ulie. He looks calm. He doesn''t have any idea why I asked him to have a serious talk.


    ¡°Ulie did you have a secret date with Hadley?¡± I asked him straight.


    He frowned. ¡°What do you mean by secret date?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t try to deny it. The reporters have proofs that you guys are meeting secretly.¡± I told him in a


    cold voice.


    ¡°What? Wait, I don''t get you. Can you exin it to me clearly?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t y dumb Ulie! You know what I am talking about. When we were on the red carpet, the


    reporters have bombarded you with questions about your secret date with Hadley!¡± I can¡¯t hide the


    rage that I am feeling right now.


    ¡°You know how the reporters work Ellie!¡±


    ¡°But they have proof! They have your pictures with Hadley. You brought her to an expensive


    restaurant and book the VIP room for both of you!¡± I said in a higher voice.


    One of the reporters approached me at the event. I wanted to ignore him but he showed me the


    picture of the secret date Ulie and Hadley. I don''t know how I manage to act calmly though deep


    inside I was fuming mad and I wanted to go to Ulie and ask for his exnation.


    Ulie eyes widen. ¡°Oh, that!¡±


    Iughed sarcastically. ¡°Is that your only reaction?¡±


    ¡°Ellie that is not a big deal.¡±


    I look at him with disbelief. ¡°Not a big deal? You gave much effort to date her, and now you are


    telling me that it''s not a big deal? You should have told me that what you mean by settling things


    with her is dating her and continuing to n your supposed wedding!¡±


    ¡°You should have informed me first that you guys are dating already! You should have informed me


    that you are not courting me anymore!¡± I sade full of rage.


    Ulie became rmed because of my sudden burst of anger.


    ¡°Leave my house Ulie! Go to that girl!¡± I shouted.


    Ulie went to me and hug me. I was doing my best to push him away but he won¡¯t dodge. He still


    pushes himself to me to hug me.


    ¡°Hush now my Quinn. Let me exin okay?¡± He said in a gentle voice.


    I am still trying to push him away. ¡°Save your exnation! I don¡¯t need it! Go to Hadley! n your


    wedding or whatsoever!¡±


    ¡°I know you don¡¯t mean that Ellie. Please calm down and listen to me. Nothing is true with all your


    ims except with my secret meeting with Hadley. And it''s not a date okay? Please let me exin


    first.¡± Ulie said while hugging me tightly.


    Ulie calm me first. He didn''t say anything. He just hugs me. When he felt like I¡¯m already calm he


    started to break the hug. He looks at me intently and touches my face.


    ¡°I love you my Quinn.¡± He started his speech.


    I will not deny it but what he said brought warmth to my heart.


    ¡°Yes, I set a secret meeting with Hadley a few months ago. Again let me make this clear to you. It''s


    a meeting, not a date.¡±


    ¡°I asked her for a meeting to get straight with her. I apologize to her because I am not the man for


    him. I can¡¯t give the love that she wants from me, and that I love you.¡± He gently said then he gave


    me a quick kiss on the lips.


    My face reddened from his sudden sweet gesture. Little by little my heart is being at peace.


    ¡°I did my best for her to finally ept the fact that no matter what she does, she will never win my


    heart because since then until now it was only you, my Quinn who owns my heart. My mind might


    forget the memories I had with you in past but my heart can¡¯t. My heart will always recognize his


    owner which is you my Quinn.¡± Ulie said with full of sincerity.

 Chapter 49 BOYFRIEND

    Chapter 49 BOYFRIEND


    ¡°Ulie¡­¡± I can¡¯t utter anything but his name.


    Ulie¡¯s words are giving so much warmth to my heart. He sounded so sincere. I can¡¯t help myself but


    grab his face and give him a soft kiss. I was hoping that through my kiss he was able to feel the


    words I can¡¯t utter.


    ¡°I will never marry anyone but you, my Quinn. Don¡¯t ever forget that.¡± Ulie added.


    I nodded at him. He went to me again and kiss me, a more passionate kiss. I kiss him back with the


    same passion and intensity.


    ¡°I love you, Penelope Quinn Cabello,¡± Ulie said after our kiss.


    I smile at him and caress his face. ¡°I love you too Kade Ulysses Escarrer.¡±


    Ulie eyes widen. ¡°Y-you love me too?¡±


    I chuckled. ¡°I never stop loving you. Well, I thought I did, but I was wrong.¡±


    ¡°I always thought that the reason why I am not letting anyone be in my life is that I got traumatized


    from my first heartbreak. But the truth is, even if you hurt me big time, my heart still longs for you.¡± I


    confessed to him.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry that I hurt you before, I''m sorry because I can¡¯t remember our past, I don¡¯t know how to


    make it up to you. But I promise you that I will do my best to be deserving of your love. I love you


    my Quinn, more than my life. I will never get tired of telling that to you.¡±


    I never thought that I will end up with Ulie. He was my first and only love. I thank God for giving us a


    chance to be together. I¡¯m thanking Him for giving him to me despite my crazy n before.


    I knew that God never wants me to have a child without marriage. But still, He made a way so that


    my crazy n will lead me to my happily-ever-after. Although, it''s not that easy.


    Making our rtionship official is only a first step to our happily-ever-after because I know that we


    will face many challenges and one of those is Hadley.


    We were cuddling when Ulie asks me a question.


    ¡°Are you my girlfriend now?¡±


    Iughed at his question. ¡°No, we¡¯re not.¡± I teased him.


    ¡°What?!¡±


    Iughed again, this time a bit louder. I saw Ulie pout. I grab her face and gave him a quick kiss.


    ¡±What kind of question is that? Of course, I¡¯m your girlfriend now. I already told you that I love you!¡± I


    said to him a matter of fact.


    ¡°I just want to hear it from you.¡± Ulie sweetly said.


    I smile at him. But I remember Hadley¡¯s statement about the twins.


    ¡°Ulie did you show Alistair and Amelia¡¯s photos to Hadley?¡± I asked curiously.


    Ulie nodded. ¡°I did.¡±


    I red at him. ¡°Why did you show her the twin''s picture?!¡±


    ¡°Because she asks for it. And I don''t see anything wrong with that. I told her that you look like


    Alistair while Amelia looks like me. She even envies me for having beautiful children.¡± Ulie


    exined.


    I rolled my eyes. ¡°She envies you to the point that she wants to have a child with you!¡± I hissed.


    ¡°She said that?¡±


    I nodded a bit irritated when I remember how dreamy and confident she was when she said that.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Don¡¯t mind her my Quinn. It was just her delusion.¡±


    ***


    I woke up a bitte. It¡¯s a long time since I had a good of sleep after Hadley made a threat in my


    office.


    ¡°Mom hurry up! Dad cooks breakfast for us!¡± Amelia said when she saw me arriving at the dining


    area.


    ¡°Good morning my Quinn!¡± Ulie greeted me and give me a quick peck on my lips.


    I softly p him. ¡°The kids are watching.¡±


    ¡°D-did Dad kiss our mom on the lips?¡± Alistair innocently asked his twin.


    ¡°Oh yes, Alistair! Dad did!¡± Amelia said while giggling.


    I shook my head, I''m very sure that Amelia will ask us none-stop.


    ¡°Dad, why did kiss our mom?¡± Alistair ask.


    ¡°Because your mom is my girlfriend now!¡± Ulie happily announced.


    The twins scream from what they heard.


    ¡°Is this mean that mom will have the same surname as us dad?¡± Amelia excitedly asks.


    ¡°Soon my princess,¡± Ulie said then he winked at me.


    My face reddened.


    ¡°Can¡¯t we change it now dad? All my ssmates¡¯ mom has the same surname as them. Alistair and


    I are the only ones who had a different surname with our mom.¡± Amelia pouted her lips.


    I kind of feel hurt from what Amelia had said. It didn''te to me that they had an issue with our


    surnames. I know that in a way we are different from other families because Ulie and I are not really


    together before. But I thought that being in the same house together and being a great parent to


    them is enough.


    I suddenly felt sorry for them. It''s all because of my selfishness. If I didn''t make this crazy n, they


    will not experience this kind of setup.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry princess, you and Alistair will surely have the same surname as your mom. Just wait


    for the perfect time.¡± Ulie said to console Amelia.


    ¡°Okay dad, but I hope it will happen very soon. I can¡¯t wait to tell my ssmate about it!¡± Amelia


    said with full of hope.


    After our breakfast, Ulie requested to drive to my office. Who am I to say no to that request?


    We first drop the kids off at school.


    ¡°Thank you for consoling Amelia a while ago,¡± I told Ulie while he was driving me to my office.


    ¡°It¡¯s my job as her dad to assure her of her concern. And I will surely make it happen. I will definitely


    rece your surname with Escarrer.¡± Ulie said then he winked at me.


    I feel the butterfly on my stomach. My heart is so full from all Ulie¡¯s sweet words.


    ¡°We need to handle Hadley first.¡±


    He frowned. ¡°I already did my part on making her understand that I don¡¯t have feelings for her and


    the only woman I love is you my Quinn.¡±


    ¡°But still, I want everything is settled before marrying you,¡± I told him.


    Wow Ellie, so you already told Ulie that you are ready to marry him. He hasn''t proposed to you yet!


    But he said that he will definitely change my surname. It can be considered at proposal right? I


    asked myself.


    ¡°I can marry you right now Ellie if you allow me to. But I know you deserve more. I haven¡¯t given you


    a proper marriage proposal yet. I will make sure to make one that you will never forget.¡± Ulie


    promised me and then he holds my hand and brought it to his lips and kissed it.


    I was still on cloud nine when Luna went to my office.


    ¡°You look so happy right now. It''s very different from your aura yesterday.¡± Luna noticed.


    I smile and nodded at her. ¡°Ulie and I talk about his allegedly secret date with Hadley. He exins


    everything to me.¡±


    ¡°It was far from what Hadley wanted to show to the reporter yesterday,¡± I added.


    I share with her what Ulie told mest night. What really happened in that meeting.


    ¡°I¡¯m not surprised. I know that Hadley was just delusional!¡± Lunamented.


    Iughed at Luna¡¯s remark. She really hates Hadley.


    ¡°But I am not sure if you will still be happy with what will I show you,¡± Luna said then she hands me


    the newspaper.


    Ulie and Hadley were on the headline. It was their picture in the restaurant. If Ulie and I didn''t talk


    last night, I might believe these photos.


    ¡°I bet she ns all this!¡± Luna said with full of conviction.


    ¡°Ulie was the one who asks Hadley to meet him.¡± I reminded Luna.


    ¡°Yes, I know. But ording to Ulie, he made sure that his meeting with Hadley will be private. How


    the hell did the reporter know about the ce where Ulie and that snake will meet?¡±


    Luna has a point. And considering that the restaurant that Ulie chose is not ordinary. Only very well-


    off people can afford to dine in that restaurant.


    I only went there when I¡¯m with Ulie. It''s not that I can¡¯t afford I but because I don''t see the need of


    spending that much money on a meal.


    ¡°Just think about it, friend. If she didn''t n this then why did this news onlye now? It''s a big


    scoop. They should have written this headline a day after Ulie met her. But why did they release it


    just now?¡±


    ¡°I get your point. There is a big possibility that she was behind all these. I¡¯m curious, what is exactly


    her n? Did she think that she will get Ulie by doing this?¡±


    ¡°It can be. Maybe she thought that by doing this, she will put pressure on Ulie. But her antics are so


    cheap!¡± Luna hissed.


    ¡°What do we need to do to make her stop? Ulie already told her that I am the one he loves and he


    will never love her. She was chasing Ulie for years. Why can¡¯t she ept it?¡± I said frustratedly.


    I don''t know if I will hate her or pity her. Hadley was a great woman. She is beautiful, intelligent, and


    powerful. But she is just wasting her time chasing on a man who can¡¯t love her back.


    I hope that she will know her worth.


    ¡°I honestly don¡¯t know. Why don''t you ept Ulie as your boyfriend? I¡¯m sure that if you guys


    announced to the press that you are officially a couple, maybe it might help that girl to wake up from


    her delusion.¡± Luna suggested.


    ¡°Ulie is already my boyfriend,¡± I told her then smirked.


    Luna''s eyes widen. ¡°What?!¡±

 Chapter 50 Verify

    Chapter 50 Verify


    Despite the buzz that Hadley created, our family was not affected. We live as if nothing happens.


    Ulie and I decided to just ignore all Hadley¡¯s antics. As long as we know what the truth is, we don¡¯t


    need to be affected by her. If we reacted to her schemes, then she will just continue to push it.


    Hadley should realize that she has a zero chance to win Ulie.


    Today is Saturday, one of our favorite days of the week. But Sunday is our most favorite day of the


    week because aside from our family bonding, it is also a day to worship God. We have so many


    things to thank God for.


    We were having breakfast when I notice Amelia¡¯s sad face.


    ¡°Hey sweetie, are you okay?¡± I asked with full concern.


    ¡°Mom are you sure that dad is your boyfriend?¡± Amelia asked.


    My forehead creased. ¡°Why are you asking that sweetie? Don¡¯t you trust me and your dad?¡±


    Amelia shook her head. ¡°Of course I trust the both of you. It''s just that...¡±


    Amelia looks hesitant. I look at Alistair, he also looks sad. I''m sure he knows what¡¯s going on with


    her sister.


    ¡°Alistair, can you tell me what happens to your sister? Why is she questioning my rtionship with


    your dad?¡± I asked Alistair instead.


    Ulie was just silent. He was observing the situation.


    ¡°Mom, do you know who is Hadley Adelson?¡± Alistair ask.


    My eyes widen. Why are they asking me if I know Hadley? Have they met her? Is that why my


    children are acting like this?


    I can feel my head boiling from anger. If my hunch is right, I don''t know what I will do to her.


    I was busy contemting on what to do to Hadley when I felt Ulie¡¯s hand on mine. I look at him and


    he mouthed ¡®calm down.¡¯


    I tried my best to calm down. I need to focus on my children. I will just deal with herter.


    ¡°Why are you asking me if I know her? Did you meet her?¡± I ask Alistair.


    Alistair shakes his head. I heaved a heavy sighed of relief from his answer.


    ¡°Then why are you asking me if I know her?¡± I asked again.


    Alistair''s tears started to well up. ¡°Because my ssmate is saying that our dad will marry that girl.¡±


    My eyes widen. ¡°Where did they get that idea?¡±


    ¡°It was written all over the newspaper. They even showed us those newspapers.¡± Amelia butted in.


    Howe those kids know how to gossip at a young age?


    Ulie squeezes his hand on mine. I look at him.


    ¡°Let me be the one to exin this to them.¡± He said then he kisses me on my temple.


    ¡°Kids listen to daddy. Your mom and I never lied to you. We will never will. But can you borate to


    us what exactly happens? How did they tell you about it?¡± Ulie asks the twins.


    ¡°We told our ssmate that you and mom are finally together and soon mom will have the same


    surname as us.¡± Alistair started the story.


    ¡°But one of our ssmates, Ian said otherwise. He told us that you and mom are lying to us. Mom


    will never be Escarrer because dad is marrying someone else. And that girl will take daddy away


    from us because they have their children and if that happens dad doesn¡¯t need us anymore.¡± Amelia


    added then she started to cry.


    I went to her and hug her. ¡°Stop crying baby that will never happen,¡± I assured her.


    ¡°I grab his cor and told him that he should shut up because what he just said is not true. But he


    said he has proof. He asks me to let him go and he will show us the proof.¡± Alistair continues the


    story.


    ¡°I let him go. He went to his desk and got something from his bag. He showed the whole ss three


    different newspapers with the same headline announcing your marriage with a girl named Hadley


    Adelson.¡± Alistair said.


    ¡°Then all our ssmates except my best friend started to tease us. Telling us that dad will soon


    abandon us. Is that true dad? You will marry that girl and you will abandon us?¡± Amelia said while


    crying so hard.


    Alistair wasn¡¯t able to stop himself from crying. My heart is hurting seeing them now. I look at Ulie,


    my tears starting to well up.


    ¡°Kids look into daddy¡¯s eyes. I will never lie to you. I will never marry any other woman except for


    your mother. And I will never leave you. You two and your mom are my life. I can¡¯t live without you.¡±


    Ulie said to give the children the assurance that they need.


    ¡°But what about the article in the newspaper?¡± Alistair asked.


    Ulie sighed aloud. ¡°What those writers wrote in the article are not true. They are just making an


    assumption.¡±


    ¡°But you had a date with her!¡± Amelia insists.


    ¡°That is not a date. I just met her because I need to settle things with her.¡± Ulie exined himself.


    ¡°But you hug her!¡± Amelia hissed.


    Ulie chuckles. ¡°It¡¯s just a friendly hug. It has no malice.¡±


    ¡°But...¡± Amelia tries to think of a rebuttal.


    ¡°Princess, you must believe us. We are your parents. We will never lie to you and your brother. And


    you saw me always kissing your mom. If I am marrying another woman then why will your mom


    allow me to kiss her?¡± Ulie said.


    ¡°But you are always kissing mommy even before you announce that you guys are finally together.¡±


    Amelia snort.


    I can¡¯t help myself fromughing because the kids are right.


    I saw Ulie blushed. He looks so cute.


    He cleared his throat. ¡°Well, your mom allowed me because I don''t have any other girls. And deep


    down inside, your mom already loves me.¡±


    My eyes widen from his im. I hit his shoulder.


    ¡°Feeling!¡±


    Then the kids chuckled. I smile knowing that they are okay now.


    We are going to the airport today to fetch Ka.


    The kids are excited especially, Alistair. I was surprised by Ka¡¯s n of going back this soon. She


    told me before she left for the US that she will stay for a year or more.


    ¡°Mom when will auntie Ka¡¯s ne arrive? I''m so excited to see her! I miss her so much!¡± Alistair


    asks impatiently.


    I messed up Alistair''s hair and smile. ¡°Your aunt will be here any minute now. Did you hear the


    announcement a while ago?¡±


    Alistair nodded.


    ¡°That is your auntie¡¯s ne, it only means that their ne alreadynded here in the airport. You


    need to learn how to wait Alistair.¡± I told him.


    ¡°But we are waiting for more than an hour.¡± Alistair hissed.


    ¡°Stop acting like that Alistair. What did your mom tell you, young man?¡± Ulie butted in.


    ¡°Learn how to wait,¡± Alistair said in a low voice.


    Ulie is good at disciplining the kids. My heart is too soft when ites to them.


    ¡°Then wait. Stopining because you can¡¯t do anything but wait for your aunt.¡± Ulie said in an


    authoritative tone.


    ¡°Yes, dad,¡± Alistair said then he went to me to hug me. ¡°Sorry, mom.¡±


    ¡°No worries sweetie.¡±


    ¡°Alistair! Amelia!¡±


    We all look in the direction of the voice who called the twins. And it''s none other than Ka.


    Ka went straight to the kid. She hugs and kisses them. I also saw Enrique following her.


    I look at Ulie. He just shrugged.


    We all went straight to Escarrer¡¯s mansion and yes, Enrique is also with us.


    ¡°Auntie, what is he doing here? Don¡¯t he have a car?¡± Amelia innocently asks.


    I tried my best not tough while Ulie didn''t bother to stop himself fromughing. Heughs so loud


    that made Enrique a bit irritated.


    ¡°He has a car baby. It''s just that he wanted to be a dog of your aunt.¡± Ulie exins.


    ¡°You want to be a dog uncle? But that¡¯s impossible.¡± Amelia said full of concern.


    We allugh at Amelia¡¯s response.


    I saw Enrique clench his jaw and then smile at my daughter.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Don¡¯t believe your dad. I am not a dog and I don''t want to be one.¡± Enriquez tried his best to


    exin himself to my daughter.


    ¡°But my dad never lied to us.¡±


    Ulie and Iughed hard. Ulie¡¯s promise that he will never lie to them was still fresh from them. No


    wonder, Amelia believe his dad.


    Ulie faked a cough. ¡°Princess, I don''t mean that he is literally a dog. What I mean is, he does what


    dogs do to their owner and that is following them wherever they go. In your uncle¡¯s case, his owner


    was your Aunt. That is why he is with us now.¡± Ulie exined further.


    ¡°Oh, so you love my auntie?¡± Amelia finally gets it.


    Enriquez smile and nodded at him. ¡°Yes, princess. I love your aunt.¡±


    ¡°Quen can you stop? Don¡¯t say silly things to Amelia!¡± Ka acted irritated but it''s so obvious that


    she likes what he heard from Enrique. She was blushing.


    ¡°I am not. I¡¯m just telling her the truth.¡± Enriquez said in a teasing tone.


    Ka rolled her eyes but her face still blushing. ¡°Whatever!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you like him, auntie?¡± Alistair curiously asks.


    ¡°Why Alistair? Do you want me to love that guy? I thought you want to be with me forever?¡± Ka


    said in a childish tone.


    ¡°I do love you, auntie. But if you will not ept uncle, then I will not have a cousin. My dad says that


    if you ept him, I will have a cousin from you soon.¡± Alistair innocently said.


    Ka¡¯s eyes widen. Her face became redder.


    ¡°You are right young man. If you want to have a cousin then help me to convince your aunt to


    ept me. I promise you that I will give you a cousin in a year or two.¡±


    ¡°Quen!!!¡±

 Chapter 51 RELATIONSHIP STATUS

    Chapter 51 RELATIONSHIP STATUS


    Ka¡¯s face reddened until we reach the Escarrer mansion. The kids keep on convincing Ka to


    ept Enrique as her boyfriend so that they can have a cousin soon.


    They want to have a cousin badly. They even ask why they need to wait for a year or two. We


    patiently exin it to them until they understand the need of waiting.


    ¡°Wee Quen! It''s good to see you again! I bet my son misses you so much.¡± Auntie Adelia


    weed Quen.


    I saw Ka¡¯s sulking face. I just shook my head. I can¡¯t imagine how hard it is for Quen to pursue


    Ka. She sometimes acts like a child. It''s one of the reasons why the kids love her is because


    they felt like their aunt is the same age as them.


    ¡°I¡¯m your daughter here but you chose to wee the outsider!¡± Karma hissed.


    Uncle Laertes didn''t like what he heard from Ka. ¡°Watch your word youngdy. Quen is already


    part of the family. Your brother treated him as his brother and we also treat him like one. So never


    address Quen as an outsider. You understand youngdy?¡±


    Ka lowers her head and slowly nodding to her dad.


    ¡°Let us not ruin this beautiful day! Let''s all go inside.¡± Aunt Adelia said to divert the topic.


    We all went to the dining area and started our lunch. The kids made the situation lighter as they got


    the spotlight. Thankfully the lunch went well.


    Quen talked with Ulie while the twins are with their grandparents. Ka left with me.


    Ka invited me to her room.


    ¡°Argh! I hate him!¡± Ka said in a higher voice the moment we enter her room.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    I chuckled. ¡°I don''t believe you.¡±


    Ka''s jaw dropped. ¡°What did you say? I thought you are on my side!¡±


    I shook my head. ¡°I am on no one''s side. Stop acting like a child and act like a mature one. You will


    soon have a boyfriend.¡± I told her with a bit of teasing.


    Ka''s face reddened. I lost count already on how many times she blushed today.


    ¡°Of course not! I will not make that oldie my boyfriend.¡± Ka said defensively.


    I can¡¯t help tough when I heard her calling Quen an oldie.


    ¡°Enough about me and him. We went back here to the Philippines because of you and my brother.¡±


    Ka said in a serious voice.


    I frowned. ¡°Huh? But why?¡±


    Ka rolled her eyes. ¡°Isn¡¯t obvious? We went back here to help you with that snake!¡±


    Now I finally, understand why they look so serious when Ulie asks Quen for a talk.


    ¡°Oh!¡± The only thing I utter.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe that bitch! My brother never failed to make her understand that he doesn¡¯t like her


    but she just won¡¯t stop. She is already obsessed with my brother!¡± Ka said annoyed with Hadley.


    I honestly thought the same. What Hadley feels towards Ulie is not love anymore but an obsession.


    ¡°Can you just ept my brother¡¯s love for you? I¡¯m so sure that my brother never failed to show you


    how much he loves you.¡± Ka pleaded.


    I smile at her. ¡°I already did.¡±


    ¡°Good! Now all- w-wait! W-what did you say?!¡±


    Iughed aloud at Ka¡¯s reaction. We haven¡¯t told the Escarrer family yet about the real score


    between me and Ulie. We just n to announce it today.


    ¡°Ulie and I are now boyfriend and girlfriend,¡± I said clearly.


    Ka isn¡¯t moving. She is just looking at me with eyes widened. She looks really shocked. Is that so


    hard to believe?


    ¡°For real? Since when?¡± She asked.


    ¡°Just recently.¡± I just said.


    After a few minutes, Ka screams. I was startled by her scream.


    ¡°Are you okay? Why are you screaming?¡± I asked with a bit of concern.


    ¡°OMG! I can¡¯t believe it! Finally! It is now official! You are now my sister-inw! You don''t know how


    happy I am right now.¡± Ka said then she went to me and gave me a tight hug.


    ¡°I¡¯m so happy for you and my brother. But I¡¯m happier for my niece and nephew.¡± Ka whispered


    while she was hugging me.


    I was touched by her sincerity towards my family, especially to my children. I was so blessed to


    have Escarrer with me. They loved and epted my children with open arms. They me me


    when I got pregnant with their son and when Ulie canceled his engagement with Adelson.


    Adelson was a big loss to them, especially that they wanted to expand in America. But they never


    made me feel that way. Instead, they gave me the love that I lost, when my parents died. Auntie and


    uncle treated me as their daughter that is why I feel like I got another parent.


    Ka keeps on asking me about my rtionship with her brother. She asked me when and how


    exactly did it happen. She also asked me about the kid''s reaction. I told her everything she wanted


    to know. I did not skip anything.


    ¡°I feel sorry for my niece and nephew. I didn''t know that the kids are bullying them. I will teach those


    kids a lesson!¡± Ka said with full rage.


    I just shook my head. Ka is now back from her childish thinking.


    ¡°They are just kids Ka. You don¡¯t need to meddle with that. We have already exined


    everything to the kids. They already know what the truth is. You know how mature those kids are.


    They already know how to handle it.¡± I told her before she does something crazy.


    ¡°But still!¡±


    ¡°Hush now Ka. It wasn¡¯t the kid''s fault. Because it''s all my fault. I was selfish enough to make


    myself pregnant out of wedlock that is why my kids are suffering that kind of gossips and bullying.¡±


    ¡°Of course not! It was because of destiny. If that didn¡¯t happen then you and my brother will not be


    together now. Everything happens for a reason.¡± Ka tried tofort me.


    ¡°Whether it''s destiny or now, still we all know that what I did is wrong. It is not ording to the n


    of God. I¡¯m just grateful to God because, despite my crazy n, He is still in control. God lead me to


    Ulie.¡±


    After my heart-to-heart talk to Ka, we were called for an afternoon snack.


    When we reached the garden we saw all of them enjoying the afternoon snack. Ka wanted to sit


    beside Ulie but her brother shoves her off.


    ¡°This is Ellie¡¯s seat. Quit with your act and sit beside Quen.¡± Ulie told her.


    Ka was saying something but Ulie just ignores her. He looks at me and called me ¡°Come here


    my Quinn.¡±


    ¡°How sweet!¡± Ka¡¯s sidement.


    ¡°I¡¯m d seeing how you two treat each other. How I wish that you will finally decide to be together


    for real.¡± Auntie Adelia said.


    We smile at her. Ulie nodded at me as a sign that he will announce to them our rtionship status.


    ¡°Oh, mom! Wish granted! Big brother and Ellie are finally together!¡± Ka excitedly announce.


    I saw Ulie red at his sister. Oh no! These two will surely start bantering with each other.


    ¡°Is that true Ulie and Ellie? Are you guys finally together?¡± Auntie Adelia looks so happy upon


    hearing the news.


    Ulie and I nodded at her.


    ¡°I was nning to announce our rtionship today. But thanks to Ka for spoiling our surprise.¡±


    Ulie hissed.


    ¡°Ka was just happy for us. Just be more understanding okay?¡± I told Ulie to calm him down.


    ¡°Ellie is right Ulie. What''s important is the fact that you guys are finally together. Your mom and I


    were so happy for you and the kids.¡± Uncle Laertes said.


    ¡°Tsk¡± was Ulie¡¯s reaction.


    While Ulie was still pissed because of his spoiler sister, his parents, Ka and Quen expresses


    their support for our rtionship.


    ¡°When are you nning to announce your rtionship in public? It will surely clear Ulie¡¯s issue with


    Hadley.¡± Uncle Laertes asked.


    ¡°We will announce it soon, we are just waiting for the right time,¡± Ulie exined.


    ¡°How is Hadley by the way? Quen have you talked to her? Why is she not clearing the issue?¡±


    Auntie Adelia asked. You can hear the concern in her voice.


    Ulie and I share nces with Quen, while Ka remains silent, she was suddenly focused on her


    snack.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t talked to her Auntie but I¡¯m nning to meet her within this week to catch up and talk


    about this issue.¡± Queen carefully said while looking at Ka from time to time.


    ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that. Hadley was a nice kid. I just hope that she will finally ept that she was not


    meant for Ulie. I hope she will find the kind who can give the love that she deserves.¡± Auntie said


    with full sincerity.


    ¡°I hope so too auntie. I will do my best to help her as her best friend.¡± Quen said.


    I heard Ka ¡°tsk.¡±


    I heard from Quen before that Ka and Hadley were never fond of each other. It''s not hard to


    guess why.


    The day went great. The kids are enjoying Ka and their grandparents¡¯ presence.


    ¡°How is your talk with Quen?¡± I asked Ulie.


    We are in their garden again but this time it''s only the two of us. The twins are already asleep. And


    all the adults are in their respected rooms.


    ¡°Just like what Quen said he will ask Hadley to meet him. He will try to convince Hadley to give up.


    Also, Quen thinks that someone is feeding those ideas to Hadley.¡±


    My forehead creased. ¡°And who might that be?¡±


    Ulie shrugged. ¡°I don''t know. Quen didn''t want to tell me. He will just tell me after he confirms


    everything.¡±

 Chapter 52 DATE IN PUBLIC

    Chapter 52 DATE IN PUBLIC


    ¡°Your order Ma¡¯am, Sir.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± I politely said to the waiter.


    ¡°I¡¯m still not used to not having the kids on Sunday,¡± I told Ulie.


    We were having our lunch date today. We were done attending the Sunday Service with the whole


    family when Ka insisted on bond with the kids today.


    I don¡¯t want to agree at first but the kids also wanted to bond with Ka.


    shback


    ¡°Ellie, can I borrow your twins today? I miss them so much and I want to bond with them.¡± Ka


    said after the Sunday Service.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Ka but I can¡¯t allow your request. It¡¯s our family¡¯smitment to spend time our


    weekends with our kids.¡± I exined to her.


    ¡°Mom we also want to go with Aunt Ka today. Right, Amelia?¡± Alistair said.


    I was a bit hurt hearing it from the kids. That they are choosing to spend their time with their Aunt


    than with us.


    ¡°Yes ma¡¯am, we want to go with Aunt Ka today,¡± Amelia said.


    ¡°But weekends are reserved for us four right?¡± I reminded them.


    The twins look at each other. Then they lowered their head.


    ¡°My Quinn just give it to the kids. They haven¡¯t seen their Aunt for months.¡° Ulie said.


    I red at him. Am I the only one who values our weekend familymitment?


    ¡°Ellie please let the kids go with me today? Just grab this opportunity to have a date with my


    brother.¡± Ka said in a malicious tone.


    ¡°Aunt Ka is right mommy! Go and have a date with daddy!¡± Amelia said with full of excitement.


    End of shback


    I had no choice but to give this day to Ka to spend with the twins.


    ¡°My Quinn stop thinking about the twins. They are in good hands. Let''s just enjoy this day. It''s not


    easy to have alone time with you because of our busy schedules.¡± Ulie said that made me back


    from deep thinking.


    I sighed aloud. ¡°I know. I¡¯ll try not to think of them.¡±


    ¡°Good. Give me this day. I want all your attention on me today.¡± He said then winked.


    I justugh at his flirting mode.


    Ulie brought me to a high-end restaurant. It''s more high-end than the restaurant he chose for


    Hadley. Also, unlike them, we are not in a private room.


    I can the ce, people keep on ncing at us. I am not surprised though.


    ¡°Do you know these people?¡± I can¡¯t help but ask Ulie.


    I recognize some of the people here not because I know them personally but because they are


    known in the business world, some are celebrities.


    ¡°Yes. Why? Did they bother you?¡± Ulie asked.


    I shook my head. ¡°A bit? They keep on ncing at us.¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Just ignore them. It¡¯s a good thing though. At least now they will be informed that I had nothing to


    do with Hadley because I¡¯m in love with you.¡± Ulie said as if it was nothing.


    ¡°Should I kiss you in front of them to satisfy their curiosity?¡± Ulie added in a naughty tone.


    I red at him. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare Ulie! I don¡¯t want to be in the headline again because of you!¡±


    Ulie smirked at me. ¡°Toote my love because I¡¯m very sure that this date will reach the media and


    we will be the headline tomorrow.¡±


    My eyes widen. Why didn¡¯t I think of that? How stupid Ellie!


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry my Quinn, I will not let them insult you. I will make sure that they will give the right


    news this time.¡± Ulie said in a serious tone.


    My forehead creased. ¡°Is this all your n?¡±


    Ulie looks uneasy and started to scratch his head. ¡°Yes, my Quinn. Are you angry? I think this is the


    best solution to correct the wrong news about me and Hadley.¡±


    I shake my head. ¡°I¡¯m not angry. But I would appreciate it if you will tell me your n. Did the kids


    also know about this? Did you ask them to spend their Sunday with Ka?¡±


    Ulie lower his head and nodded. He then holds my hand and squeezes it.


    ¡°Yes, they knew about it and they support my n. As per them, they want to see us in the


    headline.¡± Ulie said thenughed as he reminisces the kids'' reaction.


    I nodded at him. I am satisfied with his exnation.


    ¡°So stop thinking about silly things. Stop getting jealous over Ka. Even how close the twins were


    with Ka, you are still the number one woman in their life.¡± Ulie said assuring me.


    My face reddened because of shame. Ulie was right. I was a bit jealous because I thought that the


    kids want to spend time more with Ka than me. I¡¯m childish, I know.


    Just like what we have agreed, Ulie and I grab this opportunity to have alone time together.


    After our lunch, we went to the spa where Ulie is a VIP. He also signs me up as a VIP in the said


    spa.


    We chose the couple massage package.


    ¡°Can¡¯t we just have a girl and a guy to do the massage for us?¡± I whispered to Ulie.


    Ulie¡¯s forehead creased. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°I am notfortable seeing another girl touching you,¡± I said shyly.


    I saw Ulie smile and he kissed my forehead. ¡°I¡¯m sorry my Quinn but I can¡¯t do your request. I can¡¯t


    let any other guy see what¡¯s mine.¡° He whispers in my ears.


    I can feel my face reddened again. ¡°But they will touch what¡¯s mine.¡±


    Uli bit his lips. I feel a bit hot. ¡°They are professional my Quinn and they will never affect me.¡± He


    whispers again on my lips then he bites my ear.


    I softly p him. ¡°Fine! You win!¡± I said then I went inside the massage room.


    I heard himugh while following me.


    ***


    As expected, Ulie and I were in the headline today. Our photos from every ce that we went to


    were published in the article.


    ¡°Mom you look beautiful in all these pictures!¡± Amelia said while giggling.


    ¡°I can¡¯t wait to show my ssmates this newspaper. I am sure that they will all shut up once they


    see this.¡± Alistair said in a cold voice.


    I guess this n of Ulie is more for the kids than us. They were the ones who were greatly affected


    by all this chaos created by Hadley.


    ¡°I read the news today. I think that will be enough to clear the issue.¡± Queen said.


    I am in his office right now. Since he went out of the county for months, we need to catch up a bit


    about the project, though it was well coordinated with the people he entrusts the project with.


    The team still was the ones leading the project. I was here today because of Quen¡¯s request. I can¡¯t


    say no to my client.


    ¡°I hope so. The kids love the article though.¡± I said while thinking about the kids¡¯ reaction a while


    ago.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for what Hadley did to you. I was not here to stop her.¡± Queen said with sincerity.


    I smile at him. ¡°You don¡¯t need to apologize to me. It was not you who made those moves. Also, I


    know chasing Ka is not easy.¡±


    Quen nodded at me. ¡°I know. She hates me a lot and I understand. I deserve it.¡±


    I got curious by his statement. ¡°She hates you? Why? What did you do to her?¡±


    Quen sighed aloud. ¡°I thought that what I felt for her was no malice. That all my concern and


    protectiveness on her we''re because I see her as a sister. Also, I thought that the one I like is


    Hadley.¡± He started his speech.


    ¡°Whenever Ka expressed her love for me, I always reject her. She didn''t stop though, she still


    keeps on chasing me.¡± Quen added.


    ¡°Maybe because of that, I never thought that one day she will give on me. But she did. She told me


    that she had enough and I already won. She is giving on me.¡±


    I can hear from his voice all his regrets.


    ¡°I thought that she was not serious. I thought that she will just rest for a while then she wille


    back and start chasing me but I was wrong. That is when I realized what I really felt for her.¡°


    I can see Quen¡¯s eyes reddened. Is he about to cry? Do I need to prepare tissue?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what to do. I ask someone to tell her and report everything to me. Then I found out


    that Ka was close and protective of you. This is the reason why I decided to do this building


    project.¡±


    I was about to say something when he signal me not to speak.


    ¡°Before you assume everything let me finish first. I made this building project as an excuse to be


    here in the country. Also, I was nning to get the best architect and engineers. I initially n just to


    have a meeting with you and reject your proposal so that Ka would find out about it and she will


    go to me. But your skills are hard to let go of. You deserve this project.¡± Quen said.


    I can¡¯t help but be proud of all the things I am hearing from him. I know and I believe that my


    company deserves every big project that we are getting.


    I was about to say something when someone barges into Quen¡¯s office.


    ¡°Quen, is what Nic told me true? The memories that Kade has lost is that girl?¡± Hadley the owner of


    the voice said.


    Hadley''s eyes widen when she saw me with Quen. ¡°What is this girl doing here?!¡±

 Chapter 53 HYSTERICAL

    Chapter 53 HYSTERICAL


    ¡°What is this girl doing here?!¡±


    I frowned. Can¡¯t I be here? Did she own this ce?


    ¡°Hadley can calm down first?¡± Quen said.


    ¡°What is this girl doing here?! Answer me first!¡±


    Hadley is acting like a spoiled brat. I just shook my head.


    ¡°Do you want me to give you two a time to talk Quen?¡± I asked Quen.


    Hadley¡¯s eyes widen again. ¡°What did you just call him?!¡±


    My jaw dropped. Is Hadley for real? Is she jealous? Does she realize that she likes Quen? If that¡¯s


    true then it¡¯s toote for her.


    ¡°I was the one who told Ellie to call me Quen,¡± Quen exin in a calm voice.


    I was amazed at how Quen stays calm despite the hysterical of Hadley. Quen can handle her well.


    ¡°What¡¯s brings you here?¡± Quen asked when Hadley didn¡¯t say anything.


    ¡°Do you want me to leave?¡± I asked Quen again.


    I know that what they will talk about is Ulie¡¯s lost memories. What¡¯s bothering me though is the fact


    that the information came from Nic.


    I know that Nick and Hadley are quite close. But to what extent? Why did Nick have to tell Hadley


    about Ulie¡¯s lost memories?


    ¡°No, you should stay. After all, what she wants to know is about you and Ulysses.¡±


    Hadley rolled her eyes on me when she reaches the chair across me.


    ¡°So is it true?¡± Hadley asked impatiently.


    ¡°What exactly did that guy tell you?¡± Quen asked in a serious tone.


    I know that Quen and Nic are not on good terms though I thought it¡¯s because of Ulie. But I guess


    the real reason for their hatred of each other is Hadley.


    ¡°Nick told me this girl and Kade has a past. But since Kade¡¯s ident, he was not able to remember


    her.¡± Hadley said.


    Quen nodded. ¡°What else?¡±


    Hadley rolled her eyes on Quen. ¡°Nick told me that they are not in a rtionship or something but


    they almost had it.¡±


    Quen rested his head on his chair. ¡°I think he already told you what you should know. Why are you


    still asking me?¡±


    ¡°Because I know that you know it better than him. I remember that in the past you keep on avoiding


    Ulie. Is it because of her?¡± Hadley said then she red at me.


    I ignore her zing eyes. I already know all these. I don¡¯t know why Quen ask me to stay.


    ¡°Yes. Ulysses'' parents ask me to keep the memories he lost a secret. They don¡¯t want him to


    remember his past because it might be a trigger for him to take his life again. So you see Hadley,


    this one is a serious case. If you are nning something, I am telling you right now to stop.¡± Quen


    said in a warning tone.


    I saw fear in Hadley¡¯s eyes but only for a split second. And then she looks at me in an insulting way.


    ¡°You already know about this yet you are still sticking with him like a leech.¡± Hadley insulted me.


    My forehead creased. ¡°Excuse me?¡±


    ¡°What? Did I say wrong? I did some research, the reason why some people have selective amnesia


    is that they want to badly forget the person or the situation that they have forgotten. You are the only


    memory he lost, meaning Kade badly wants to forget about you.¡± Hadley said confidently.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know anything about me and Ulie. And I don¡¯t have any reason to exin myself to you.¡±


    I said to fight back.


    Hadleyughed like crazy. ¡°I may not know what really happened between you and Kade in the past


    but one thing is for sure, you hurt him big time for him to want to forget you.¡±


    ¡°Well too bad for him. Because no matter how his mind forgets about me, but his heart will never


    will. As you can see, he is madly in love with me now.¡± I said to piss her of.


    Hadley''s face reddened from anger. I think I hit the right spot. I can¡¯t answer her well because I


    honestly don''t know why Ulie lost our memories in past. But I¡¯m sure that Quen knows the reason


    why. And he kept it well.


    ¡°I didn''t know that you are so full of yourself! Does Kade know about this side of you? You two-faced


    bitch!¡± Hadley looks like she was already defeated.


    ¡°I am no two-face bitch. And Ulie knows everything about me and he loves it!¡± I said to irritate her


    more.


    ¡°I bet you hurt him big time in the past! I will do everything to find it out and I will show it to Kade.¡±


    Hadley warned me.


    ¡°Hadley stop! I told you to stop digging Ulysses¡¯ past!¡± Quen raised his voice.


    ¡°Did you just raise your voice on me?¡± Hadley said in disbelief.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry if I raised my voice on you. But I already warned you about digging Ulie¡¯s past. His life


    was at stake here. Can¡¯t you get it?¡± Quen said in a calmer voice.


    ¡°I get it okay! If this girl is the trigger of Kade¡¯s memories, it only means that she was the reason


    why Kademitted suicide. I¡¯m sure she hurt Kade big time.¡± Hadley said in a desperate voice.


    Honestly, Hadley has a point. Am I the reason why Uliemitted suicide? But why? We haven¡¯t


    met since I left the University. I can¡¯t think of the reason why he willmit suicide because of me.


    ¡°It¡¯s Ulie who hurt Ellie and not the other way around,¡± Quen said in a defeated voice.


    Hadley looks confused. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Ulysses was so confused with his feelings with Ellie. He thought that he was seeing her as a friend.


    That is why when Ellie saw him kissing another girl, he told her that he only sees her as a friend.¡±


    Quen started his speech.


    ¡°When Ellie left the University Ulysses realized that what he felt for her is far from a friend. He loves


    her, but he was coward to approach Ellie again because he knew that he hurt her big time.¡± Quen


    added.


    Quen went on Hadley¡¯s side and look at her intently. ¡°So you see Hadley, since then until now, it


    was only Ellie in Ulysses¡¯ heart. The reason why, no matter what you do, he can¡¯t give you the love


    that you want from him. So please just give up. You will only be hurt from this.¡±


    ¡°I hate you! I hate you! You should be on my side, not her!¡± Hadley said while hitting Quen.


    Quen did nothing. He just let Hadley hit her.


    ¡°Hush now Hadley. Just move on and forget about Ulysses. He was never meant for you.¡± Quen


    said while hugging her.


    Hadley pushes him hard. ¡°I hate you! You traitor!¡± Then she went out of the office.


    Quen looks exhausted while he went back to his chair. ¡°I¡¯m sorry again about that Ellie.¡±


    I smile at him. ¡°It¡¯s okay. But I guess she has a point.¡±


    His forehead creased. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Am I really the reason why Uliemitted suicide? Or am I rted to it?¡± I asked him curiously.


    Quen averted his gaze. I saw him swallow hard. Am I really connected to it?


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Ellie but I really can¡¯t tell you any details about it. It was already in the past. Let just all


    move on.¡± Quen said.


    I don¡¯t know but for some reason, I got nervous and scared.


    I was back in the office when I saw Ka sitting on the sofa.


    ¡°Finally you are here!¡± Ka said then she kissed me on the cheek.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± I asked her.


    Ka rolled her eyes. ¡°Quen told me that Hadley went to his office and you two met in there. I just


    want to know if you are okay.¡±


    I smile at her thoughtfulness.


    ¡°Well, she heard about the lost memories of Ulie from Nick. She went to Quen¡¯s office to ask for


    confirmation.¡± I said then shrugged.


    ¡°Ugh! Why can¡¯t she just give up?! It¡¯s 100% clear that my brother will never ept nor love her!¡±


    Ka said in a frustrated voice.


    ¡°I can¡¯t give you the answer. It¡¯s better to ask her.¡± I said to tease her.


    Ka looks disgusted with what I just said. ¡°I will never talk to that girl.¡±


    ¡°Well, I guess you had no choice. I mean if Quen bes your boyfriend then you will surely have


    to deal with her.¡± I told her a matter of fact.


    I think Ka can¡¯t avoid Hadley forever because from what I saw a while ago, I can say that Hadley


    is an important person for Quen.


    Ka asked me to tell her everything that happens in Quen¡¯s office.


    I saw from Ka¡¯s expression that she was hurt by the concern that Quen is giving Hadley.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± I asked her.


    Ka nodded then she rolled her eyes. ¡°Of course I¡¯m okay. That was nothing. I was so used to it.¡±


    I hold her hand and squeeze it to give her a bit offort.


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    ¡°But don¡¯t you think Hadley has a point?¡± I told Ka what¡¯s bugging me the whole time.


    Ka frowned. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°She might be right by her assumption that maybe the reason why Ulie can¡¯t remember me is that I


    was the reason why hemitted suicide or connected to it,¡± I exined to her.


    Ka nodded. ¡°Maybe? Because as per Quen¡¯s story my brother realizes that he loves you way too


    late. Maybe he did that because of the guilt from hurting you?¡±


    Is that really it?

 Chapter 54 SUSPICION

    Chapter 54 SUSPICION


    ¡°Mom, are you going to have a date with dad again this week?¡± Amelia asked excitedly.


    I smile at her while caressing her cheeks. ¡°Why honey?¡±


    ¡°I want to see mom and dad again on the news,¡± Amelia answered.


    I furrowed. Is Hadley¡¯s issue not yet settled in their school?


    ¡°Why?¡± I asked.


    Amelia shrugged. ¡°I just want to show it again to my ssmate. They look so amazed at how you


    guys look on the news. They all said that you guys look perfect together. They finally know why I am


    this beautiful.¡±


    Ulie and I chuckled.


    ¡°They also said that I¡¯m handsome!¡± Alistair proudly said.


    Amelia rolled her eyes. ¡°They only said that out of pity.¡±


    My eyes widen at Amelia¡¯s answer. I didn''t like what I just heard from her. Alistair is her twin brother.


    She should not treat his brother that way. This is not the only time that she did this. I need to


    discipline her now.


    ¡°Amelia apologize to your brother. You should not say that. You two are siblings. If you have a


    person who you can¡¯t consider your enemy, not yourpetitors that is your brother. You two


    should be partners, not the other way around.¡± I told Amelia in a serious voice.


    Ulie on the other hand is just silent. We both agreed that we will never meddle whenever one of us


    is trying to discipline the kids.


    I can see that Alistair wants to defend his twin sister while Amelia''s eyes welled up.


    ¡°We are all waiting Amelia Quinn.¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Amelia lowered her head. She looks at me and Ulie thenst is her brother.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Alistair. I didn''t mean to hurt you. I just want to tease you.¡± Amelia said in a lower voice.


    Alistair went to his sister and hug her. ¡°It¡¯s okay Lia! I will always forgive you. I love you!¡±


    I smile at my children. Alistair is a sweet child. I hope that he stays the same until he grows u.


    Amelia hugs back. ¡°I love you too!¡±


    Ulie holds my hand and squeezes it. He mouthed ¡°You did great!¡±


    In a while, Amelia went to me and hug me. ¡°I¡¯m sorry mommy.¡±


    ¡°Do you realize now what you did to your twin is wrong?¡± I asked her.


    Amelia bit her lower lips and slowly nodded. I smile at her and hug her.


    ¡°As long as you realize that you are wrong and apologize. Mom will always forgive you. I love you,


    honey!¡± I said to her.


    She smiled. I can see tears in her eyes. ¡°I love you too mommy! Don¡¯t be angry with me again!¡±


    ¡°I will never be angry at you. I only corrected you because I love you. If you care and love someone,


    you should correct him if you see that what he or she doing is wrong. In that way, you will bring out


    the best in them. Do you understand me?¡± I asked Amelia.


    Amelia nodded and smile at me. ¡°I understand mommy.¡±


    I look at Alistair. ¡°How about you Alistair?¡±


    Alistair gave me a thumbs up. ¡°I understand mom.¡±


    ***


    ¡°Ulie...¡±


    Nick was bugging me since the day I encountered Hadley in Quen¡¯s office.


    If I¡¯m not mistaken, Nick and Ulie became close when they partnered for LHI hotels but they already


    knew each other because they all stayed in America for quite some time.


    ¡°Yes, my Quinn?¡± Ulie responds but his eyes are on the road. He is driving me to my office.


    This became our daily routine ever since Ulie and I became official.


    ¡°How much do you know about Nick?¡± I asked.


    I saw Ulie frown and harden his grip on the steering wheel. Don¡¯t tell me he is jealous?!


    ¡°Why are you interested in him?¡± Ulie asked.


    ¡°Oh please, Ulie stop with your jealousy! I never like Nick dramatically. You are the only man I ever


    love.¡± I told him.


    I saw his face reddened which made me smile big. My love looks so cute when he blushed.


    ¡°Fine. But why are you asking about him? What is going on?¡±


    I sighed. ¡°When I was at Quen¡¯s office, I met Hadley.¡±


    Ulie looks shocked at what I said. He suddenly steps on he breaks off the car.


    ¡°Hey be careful!¡± I scolded him but he just ignores me.


    ¡°You met Hadley? What happens? What did she do to you? Are you okay? Did she hurt you?¡± Ulie


    asked full of concern.


    I shook my head. ¡°I¡¯m okay, don¡¯t worry. Quen was also there, he was able to protect me from her.¡± I


    assured him.


    Uli sighed aloud. He looks relieved from what I said.


    ¡°What is she doing there? And why did you tell me this just now?¡± Ulie hissed.


    I bit my lower lips. ¡°Sorry. I thought that Ka already told you.¡±


    ¡°Fine. But what happens?¡±


    I told Ulie everything except Hadley¡¯s conclusion on the reason why he can¡¯t remember our


    memories in the past.


    I don¡¯t want him to be curious like I did because I don''t want to risk anything that can trigger him to


    remember.


    ¡°Nick was the one giving her information?¡± Ulie concluded.


    I nodded at him. ¡°I think so. That is why I¡¯m asking you, how well do you know him?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know him that well. He is a good friend of mine. People are just the onesbeling him as my


    best friend. But for me, Quen was and will always be my only best friend.¡±


    ¡°That is so sweet Ulie. I¡¯m sure that Quen will be d to hear that.¡± I said.


    On second thought, should I be jealous of Quen now? Kidding.


    ¡°More like he willugh at me. He hates anything mushy.¡± Ulie said while shaking his head.


    Ulie continued to drive me to my office.


    ¡°Let me handle Nick,¡± Ulie said when he open the car for me.


    I just smiled at him.


    I wasn¡¯t able to answer Ulie regarding Nick because I don''t know if I can promise him that.


    I am not a fan of waiting. Especially, Nick was one of my investors. If my hunch is right, I should


    prepare myself for it. The sooner, the better.


    ¡°Hey, earth to Ellie!¡±


    I was startled by Luna¡¯s sudden presence.


    ¡°You shocked me!¡± I hissed.


    Luna justughed at me. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. You look busy with your thought so I had no choice but to


    announce my presence here.¡±


    I rolled my eyes at her. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°You look so irritated. Don¡¯t tell me you are pregnant again?¡± Luna teases me.


    I red at her. ¡°That is impossible. Nothing happens between me and Ulie.¡±


    ¡°What? As In?¡± Luna looks so shocked.


    I furrowed. ¡°Why are you so surprised? Of course this time we want to make it right. We are


    resisting temptation. If ever we want to do it again, we want it on our wedding night.¡±


    Luna nodded. ¡°That¡¯s good. If you are not pregnant then stop being grumpy.¡±


    I just sighed. I can never win against Luna.


    ¡°What brings you here?¡± I asked again, now in a calm voice.


    Luna gave me my schedule. ¡°Here are your schedule for this week.¡±


    I scan the schedule that Luna gave me. I saw Nick on my meeting schedule.


    ¡°I will have a meeting with Nick? What¡¯s the purpose of this meeting?¡± I asked Luna.


    ¡°Hearst restaurant will have a new branch again. For sure we will be the ones who will get this


    project.¡± Luna exined.


    I just nodded at her.


    Usually, when I have a meeting like this, I always brought Luna and the head engineer and


    architect, but I guess this time I have to go by myself.


    ¡°Okay. But I will meet Nick alone in his meeting. You don¡¯t need toe.¡± I told her.


    Luna frowned at what I just said. ¡°What? Why?¡± She asked looking so confused.


    ¡°I just need to discuss something with Nick. It''s a personal thing so I need to meet him alone.¡± I told


    Luna.


    Luna looks more curious now. ¡°Why? What happened?¡±


    I¡¯m sorry Luna but I can tell you yet. ¡°I¡¯ll tell you after I meet with him.¡±


    Luna pouted but she has no choice but to wait.


    Nick has a good rtionship with everyone here. And I don¡¯t want them to doubt him just because


    of something that is not sure yet.


    Also, Nick helped me a lot when mypany was going a tough time. I owe that to Nick. He was a


    good friend to us.


    ***


    I am now at Nick¡¯s main restaurant. This is where he usually works. He set up his office here.


    I went straight to his office. I saw his secretary and he assists me to where Nick was.


    ¡°Good afternoon Ellie! It''s nice to see you again!¡± Nick greeted me.


    ¡°Nice to see you too Nick.¡± I greeted him back.


    ¡°You are alone? Where¡¯s your team?¡± Nick curiously asked.


    I heaved a sigh. ¡°I told them that I want to meet you alone.¡±


    ¡°What? Why? What happened?¡± Nick looks so confused.


    I am not sure if he was really clueless or he was just pretending to be one.


    ¡°Are you in love with Hadley?¡±

 Chapter 55 TRUTH ABOUT NICK

    Chapter 55 TRUTH ABOUT NICK


    ¡°Are you in love with Hadley?¡±


    Nick did not answer, he just stared at me.


    ¡°Why can¡¯t you answer me? Is that so hard to answer?¡± I asked him again.


    ¡°What do you want to hear from me?¡± Nick seriously asked.


    ¡°The truth!¡±


    Nick sighed aloud then he looks at me intently. ¡°Yes. I am in love with Hadley Adelson.¡±


    The moment Hadley barge in Quen¡¯s office telling she got the information from Nick, I knew


    something is fishy.


    I can¡¯t believe what I just heard right now, even though I already expecting it.


    Nick was a good friend to us. And hearing this feels like I have been betrayed by a trusted friend.


    ¡°Did you approach Ulie because of Hadley?¡± I asked him.


    Nick slowly nodded at me. ¡°Yes. But it was not Hadley who ask me to approach you. It was my n.


    You should thank me for doing it. It was you who benefited from it the most.¡±


    My forehead creased. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°You are right. I did approach Ulie for Hadley. I wanted to know why Hadley like Ulie so much. And I


    also want to know why he can¡¯t ept her. I¡¯m sure that there is a reason for it. And I was right. It''s


    all because of you.¡± Nick started to confess.


    ¡°I found out about you when he told me that he felt like he lost something. That is where he shared


    with me his ident. At that time he wasn¡¯t sure if he has amnesia or what because he perfectly


    remember everything except the ident and the reason why hemitted suicide. So I decided


    to investigate his past.¡± He added.


    ¡°I found out about a girl he was closed with. You guys were even rumored lovers way back in


    college. When I found out about you, I feel like I hitter a jackpot. You will be my ace to make Ulie


    completely disappear from Hadley¡¯s life.¡±


    ¡°By having you, I can urge Ulie to cancel his engagement with Hadley. Because I can¡¯t understand


    why Ulie did not oppose the engagement even if he doesn¡¯t love her!¡± Nick raises his voice.


    ¡°Because of that, Hadley became hopeful of her future with Ulie! Do you imagine how hard it is for


    me to see the love of my life hoping for something she can never have?!¡±


    ¡°Do you hate Ulie?¡± I can¡¯t help myself but ask.


    He nodded. ¡°Yes. I hate Ulie for hurting Hadley intentionally and unintentionally! I am willing to give


    the world to Hadley if that is what will make her happy but not Ulie. I know, Ulie can never make her


    happy because he will never love her. That is why I set the two of you up.¡±


    My eyes widen. Set us up? How? When?


    Nick smile at me as if he read my mind. ¡°Remember the night you went to a club?¡±


    That was the night I n to have a one-night stand for me to get pregnant!


    ¡°What about that night?¡±


    ¡°I had you followed since the day I found out about you.¡±


    What?!


    ¡°I asked Ulie toe with me to the same club you are in.¡± He said.


    ¡°Of course I didn''t know that you are looking for a prospective father of your child. I just want to use


    the opportunity to bring you two together. In that way, I can convince Ulie to cancel his engagement.


    But you exceeded my expectation.¡± He said then smirked.


    ¡°So you see, I am an enemy here. You should thank me for bringing you two back together.¡±


    I was shocked by what I heard. I can¡¯t find myself to speak. I can¡¯t believe that he manipted me


    and Ulie.


    I don''t know if should thank him or not. Then a question popped up in my mind.


    ¡°Do you know the reason why Ulie lost his memories of me? Or do you know the reason behind his


    suicide? Am I really the reason why he wanted to kill himself?¡± I can¡¯t help but ask.


    I know I want Ulie to forget about our past because I don¡¯t want to risk his life but I want to know


    what lead him to do something like that.


    Nick averted from my gaze. ¡°I¡¯m sorry Ellie but I can¡¯t. You might find me a traitor or an enemy but


    believe me or not, I treated you guys as a friend. And I can¡¯t tell you about that. I wanted to protect


    not just Ulie but also you.¡±


    Nick¡¯s voice was sincere. I knew he was telling the truth. But it made me more curious to know if I


    was really a reason or connected to his suicide. I wanted to know it badly and scares at the same


    time.


    ¡°Since we are at it. I wanted to tell you something. Hadley wants me to withdraw my investment in


    yourpany.¡± Nick said.


    I kind of expecting it. Now that he was busted. I just nodded at him.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Ellie. I don¡¯t want to do this but it''s for Hadley. She hates the fact that she was the only


    one suffering. She wanted to make you suffer too.¡±


    This is not loved at all. What Hadley felt for Ulie is no loved. Love is never selfish. And love does not


    harm others. This is a pure obsession.


    Hadley wants Ulie, and she wants him more when she can¡¯t have him. And I can¡¯t believe that Nick


    is tolerating her!


    ¡°You are tolerating her Nick! That is not right!¡± I scolded him.


    ¡°I know. But I wanted tofort her somehow. I¡¯m sure that yourpany will not suffer from my


    withdrawal. Ulie has your back.¡± Nick reason out.


    ¡°If you do this, are you ready to lose your friendship with Ulie?¡± I asked him.


    I saw sadness in his eyes but for only a split second. He quickly changed his expression.


    ¡°I already expected it to happen. I am ready for it.¡± Nick said in a lower voice.


    I nodded at him. I offer my hands on him. ¡°Thank you for all your help in the past. I am saddened


    because I lost a friend. But I respect your decision.¡±


    Nick epted my hand. ¡°Thank you, Ellie. And thank you for the friendship. I will miss the twins. I


    hope for you and Ulie¡¯s happiness.¡±


    I nodded and wave him goodbye.


    ***


    I called Luna the moment I returned to my office.


    ¡°How¡¯s your meeting with Nick?¡± Luna asked.


    I sighed and look at her. I don¡¯t want to tell Luna about what Nick and I talked about but I have to


    because it involves thepany.


    ¡°Nick will withdraw his investment from CIC,¡± I told her.


    Luna¡¯s eyes widen. ¡°What do you mean? Why will he do that?!¡±


    ¡°Because Hadley wants it.¡±


    Luna frowned. ¡°What is the connection?¡±


    Luna didn¡¯t know anything about Nick¡¯s rtionship with Hadley in America. All she only knows is


    that Nick is Ulie¡¯s best friend.


    ¡°Nick is in love with Hadley. They already knew each other way back. They studied in the same


    university in America.¡± I told her.


    Again, Luna¡¯s eyes widened from shock. ¡°What? Really?! Howe?¡±


    I shared with her what I know about their lives in America and his n.


    ¡°So you mean to say that Nick was in love with Hadley and he approaches Ulie because of Hadley?


    And he was the reason why you and Ulie met at that club?¡±


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    I nodded at her.


    ¡°And he wanted to withdraw his investment just tofort that girl? Is he crazy?!¡±


    ¡°Crazy in love with Hadley.¡± I joke.


    ¡°Ellie this is not funny! This is a big problem! Nick is our major investor! It will be a big problem for


    CIC!¡± Luna started to panic.


    I know what she meant.


    ¡°That is the reason why I ask you here and told you everything. I know it''s a big problem but I also


    wanted to cut any connection I have with Nick.¡±


    ¡°He is a good friend but I can¡¯t trust him now that I know his motive of approaching me and Ulie.¡±


    ¡°Have you told Ulie about it?¡± Luna asked.


    I shook my head. ¡°I haven¡¯t told him yet. But he will surely know about it after the news broke out.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe Nick fell for that girl! I expected a lot from him!¡± Luna hissed.


    I have the same thought but who are we to judge Nick? Surely, he saw something in her that no one


    has seen and for that, Hadley was so lucky. I just hope that she will learn to see and appreciate it.


    ***


    A few days after, news broke out.


    NICK HEARST WITHDRAW HIS INVESTMENT FROM CIC.


    NICK HEARST GOT VENTURA CORPORATION (FORMER RV) FOR THEIR NEW PROJECT.


    This headline was all over the news.


    ¡°My Quinn!¡±


    I saw Ulie¡¯s worried face when he entered my office room. I smile at him to assure him that I am


    fine.


    ¡°What the hell is this?!¡±


    ¡°Did you talk to Nick already?¡± I ignore Ulie¡¯s and asked him about Nick instead.


    ¡°No. I went straight to your office when my assistant gives this crap!¡± Ulie said about the newspaper


    in his hand.


    ¡°Why did Nick do this? And he even chose RV for his new project!¡±


    ¡°Ulie don¡¯t do anything about Ventura Corp. They are out of this. It''s not their fault.¡± I warned Ulie.


    ¡°Then whose fault is this?!¡± He asked in rage.


    ¡°It was Hadley.¡±

 Chapter 56 MEMORIES BACK?

    ¡°It was Hadley again?! When will she ever stop?!¡± I hissed.


    I somehow treated her as a friend because of the time we spend in America. But this is too much!


    ¡°But why will Nick listen to her?¡± I suddenly asked.


    ¡°Because Nick is in love with her,¡± Ellie answered.


    I was not shocked at all. I knew from the start that Nick has a thing for Hadley. I knew he approached me for a reason. I just let him be because it will be an advantage to me if ever Nick will seed in winning Hadley¡¯s heart.


    I looked at Ellie. She looks like she was waiting for me to react.


    ¡°You already knew?¡± Ellie asked.


    I nodded at her. ¡°It was pretty obvious. But I didn¡¯t expect that Nick will do this to us.¡±


    I treated him as a friend. Even though I know his motive, I still treat him as my real friend. I feel so betrayed right now.


    ¡°Wait! You knew about it but you still make friends with him?¡± Ellie asked a bit lost.


    ¡°Yes. I don¡¯t see any harm in that. I mean, I will be thankful if Nick can win her heart. Then all our problems will be solved.¡± I honestly told her.


    ¡°Then do you also know that he nned to bring you to that club where you met me again?!¡± Ellie added.


    I sighed and nodded my head again which made Ellie¡¯s eyes widen. ¡°Yes. I thought at that time, he was already desperate to make me fall for someone else, so he can finally get rid of me.¡±


    ¡°He knew about our past when he did that,¡± Ellie said.


    My eyes widen from what she just said. Nick already knew about my past with Ellie? Howe? I only knew him when I went to America and we never talked. The only time I had a proper conversation with him was when we had a business meeting which resulted in LHI and Hearst partnership.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± I asked. I need Ellie to borate on it for me.


    Ellie told me everything that Nick and her talk about. From her intuition to his confrontation with Nick. She also shared with me Nick¡¯s confession, about his n and the things he did to make his n seed.


    ¡°I should thank Nick then.¡± I blurted out.


    ¡°Ulie!¡±


    I chuckled then I kiss her on her temple. ¡°Don¡¯t worry I will make him pay for messing with yourpany first.¡±


    ¡°What will you do?¡± Ellie asked a bit in panic.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry Ellie. I¡¯m sure Nick expected this to happen.Just trust me okay?¡±


    ***


    After I talked to Ellie, I went straight to Nick¡¯s restaurant.


    ¡°Wee, Mr. Escarrer.¡± The manager weed me when he saw me entering the restaurant.


    I just nodded at him. ¡°Where is Nick?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Hearst is in his office.¡±


    ¡°Thanks,¡± I told him then I walked straight to his office.


    I open his office without knocking.


    ¡°Ulysses,¡± Nick said when he saw me.


    ¡°What the hell is going on Nick?!¡± I asked even though I already heard it from Ellie.


    ¡°You¡¯re a bitte. I¡¯m sure that Ellie exins it to you.¡± He said.


    ¡°Yes, but I want to hear it from you.¡±


    ¡°Oh, you don¡¯t trust her?¡±


    I grab his cor because I didn¡¯t like what he said.


    ¡°Enough with you messing up with us. Tell me what the hell happened? I know you like Hadley but I didn¡¯t know that you were this dog willing to do everything she wants just to please your master.¡± I said in gritted teeth.


    ¡°Rx dude. Release your hand. You know that you shouldn¡¯t do this to me. If it wasn¡¯t for me you will never bewith Ellie right now.¡± Nick said still calm.


    I removed my hand from his cor but I still looked pissed.


    ¡°How did you know about Ellie?¡± I asked him.


    This is the real reason why I went here. How far is his investigation went?


    ¡°I investigate your past. Remember the time that you told me that you feel like something is missing in your life? That no matter how hard you try to remember it you just can¡¯t?¡± Nick asked.


    I nodded at him. Since Quen and I haven¡¯t reconciled yet, Nick became a good friend. I always told him about my heart longing for something or someone.


    ¡°I remember hearing from Hadley and Enrique about a girl named Penelope. As per Enrique, she is someone you shouldn¡¯t meet.¡± Nick said.


    I frowned. ¡°What the hell are you saying? Why will he say that?¡±


    ¡°I also don¡¯t know I am not close with the guy. All I know is, that Penelope girl is the reason why he is avoiding you.¡± Nick exined.


    I don¡¯t get it. Why Quen didn¡¯t want me to meet Ellie? And why now, he is okay with it? Is Ellie really connected to my suicide attempt? But why? Am I guilty or something?


    ¡°When you told me that you feel like something important in your life is missing, I had a hunch that maybe the person youare referring to is the girl named Penelope. I hire someone to look for that Penelope and the rest is history.¡±


    ¡°What did you find out about Ellie?¡±Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    ¡°That you were almost a couple when you were in the University but you cheated on her. She left the university and you guys have never met again since then. But you are looking for her. You also hired someone to look for her because you lostmunication with her and she did not go to the university that you suggested to her. She also moved out from her house.¡± Nick added.


    I can¡¯t confirm nor deny what he just said. Many things happened in the past but none of those are in my memories.


    Why can¡¯t I remember something important as this? My head started to hurt.


    ¡°Ulie are you okay?¡± I can see the worries on his face.


    I nodded at him. ¡°Did it trigger your memory? Did you remember something?¡±


    My forehead creased because of the fear I saw in his eyes.


    ¡°Why do you look so scared? What¡¯s with my memory for you to act like that? What else do you know?!¡± I raised my voice.


    Then my head starting to hurt. It¡¯s more painful now.


    ¡°I should call a doctor or Ellie. We should stop this topic. This is not good for you.¡± Nick said a bit in panic.


    ¡°No! You tell me, Nick! What else do you know?!¡±


    I was not able to hear Nick¡¯s voice because I passed out.


    ***


    ¡°What did you tell him? What do you know?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know this will happen to Ulie okay?! He already knows those story and it didn¡¯t trigger anything. I didn¡¯t know why the hell he passed out okay?!¡±


    ¡°What do you know Nick?¡±


    ¡°Everything okay?! I know everything that you know! And I know why you kept Ulie in the dark! I understand you that is why I also kept it from him.¡±


    Those are the words I am hearing now. I wanted to open my eyes but my body seems like don¡¯t want to open it yet.


    I dreamed about a girl. She kind of looks like the younger Ellie.


    I always call the girl my Quinn. She always blushed whenever I call her that.


    She was beautiful even in her sses. She was a typical nerd but it suited her. She¡¯s the most beautiful girl that I have ever seen in my life.


    We were happy whenever we¡¯re together. I keep on teasing her. I also love the taste of her lips. It was so soft and sweet.


    I saw a girl approaching me. She asked me to meet her on the rooftop. Seems like I know the girl. She started to confess her feelings for me.


    I told her that I¡¯m sorry because I can¡¯t like her. Then the girl asks if it¡¯s because of Penelope. I just nodded at her.


    She cries and keeps on telling me how much she likes me. Then I was surprised when she suddenly kissed me. I was caught off guard.


    Then Ellie saw us kissing. The girl left while we are arguing. I am not yet ready to confess my feelings for her. I am not ready to admit it to myself yet. Instead of confessing my feelings for her. I acted like a jerk.


    Ellie looked so hurt. I wanted to punch my face when I saw her leaving.


    ¡°Ulie, what¡¯s wrong? Ulie!¡±


    I was awake from a long dream. Then I saw Ellie was crying. I touch her face and wipe her tears. I hate seeing her crying.


    ¡°What happens? Where am I? Why are you crying?¡± I asked her.


    ¡°You are in the hospital! Nick brought you here. You passed out after your argument with him. Then I saw you crying in your sleep. I got panic that is why I wake you up.¡± Ellie said while sobbing.


    I grab her to hug her. ¡°Hush now my Quinn. Stop crying. I¡¯m okay.¡±


    ¡°But you were crying!¡±


    ¡°Yes, I am because I hurt you. You saw it wrong my Quinn. I did not cheat on you. I did not kiss the girl.¡± I told her.


    I was happy when I found out that I did not cheat on her. The girl was the one who kissed me and not the other way around.


    ¡°I saw it with my own eyes! You two were kissing!¡±


    ¡°She kissed me. That¡¯s different. If you waited more, you will see that I will push her.¡± I exined.


    ¡°Why will I wait for you guys to finish?! W-wait! Do you remember it? Did your memorye back?¡±


    I smile and nodded at her. ¡°I think I did.¡±

 Chapter 57 CANCELLED

    Chapter 57 CANCELLED


    ¡°You don¡¯t look happy,¡± I told Ellie.


    I expected her to cry with happiness now that I finally remember our past. But it did not happen, she


    looks more scared than happy.


    ¡°Of course I¡¯m happy! But I can¡¯t help to feel scared.¡±


    I frowned. ¡°Is it because of my suicide attempt again?¡±


    Ellie slowly nodded. I can¡¯t me her for feeling that way. I feel a bit happy because I can see that


    she is scared to lose me forever but I am also feeling a bit piss because of my previous suicide


    attempt, she became scared of me remembering her or my past.


    But if you will ask me, I want to remember my past with her. And I¡¯m d that now, I finally got my


    lost memories of her. I can exin myself to her now.


    I heaved a heavy sigh and then I hold Ellie¡¯s hand and squeezed it. ¡°Don¡¯t be scared of my lost


    memories. Everything is different now. I will not attempt to kill myself now because I have you and


    the kids. Our family is my life now. I will always think of you guys first before making a decision.


    Please be assured that I will not do that again. I love you and I will never leave you.¡±


    When Ellie gave me her genuine smile, I know that I was sessful in giving her assurance.


    ¡°So what do you remember?¡± Ellie asked a bit expectant.


    I smile at her and caress her face. ¡°I love you since then until now. I was just too coward at that


    time. I can¡¯t admit my feelings for you. I was scared because if I tell you how I feel and in the end


    our rtionship will not work out if that happened then I will lose youpletely. And I don¡¯t want


    that. I want you to be in my life forever that is why I want us to remain friends. If we are just friends


    we will never break up. But I know that is the most stupid decision I made. Because of my wrong


    decision, I lost you.¡±


    ¡°But you never reach out to me,¡± Ellie said while pouting her lips.


    I find Ellie¡¯s pouting lips inviting. I was not able to stop myself from kissing her. It was a quick but


    sweet kiss.


    Ellie blushed which I find so cute.


    ¡°I can¡¯t help myself from kissing you my Quinn. Your pouted lips are so inviting.¡± I told her.


    Ellie just rolled her eyes but I can tell that she likes my exnation.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t answer my question.¡± Ellie hissed.


    I chuckled and kiss her forehead. ¡°I have a reason for that. First, you cut all our means of


    communication. You change your number, you move out and you did not go to the school I


    suggested.¡±


    Ellie looks guilty. I smirked at her.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I was so hurt at that time. I did everything to forget you which I seeded. That is why I


    was not able to remember you when we met at that bar.¡± Ellie exined.


    ¡°I know my Quinn. You don¡¯t need to exin yourself. I was the one who made the wrong decision.¡±


    ***


    A week after I got hospitalized, I took care of the canction of my partnership with Hearst


    restaurant.


    Nick is a good friend but I can¡¯t partner with him anymore after what he did to Ellie. I am sure that


    he already expected it.


    Also, the canction of my partnership with Nick will not affect his business. Hearst is already an


    establishedpany or restaurant.


    I am only doing this for Ellie. In doing this, theirpany reputation will not suffer so much loss.


    Though, I know that Nick¡¯s investment withdrawal will give CIC a hard time recovering. Canceling


    my partnership with Hearst will show that LHI got CIC¡¯s back.


    Marco, my new assistant showed me a couple of newspapers where my canction of partnership


    with Hearst is the headline.


    I can barely see news about CIC in those newspapers. I was able to hit two birds with one stone.


    ¡°Good job, Marco.¡±


    Marco just nodded at me and handed me my schedule for this week.


    ¡°Many reporters are asking for an interview with you,¡± Marco said.


    ¡°I will not entertain any interview. Just let the PR team handle this issue.¡±


    Marco nodded and gave me other concerns.


    Marco is a good employee. I can see the big difference between Marco and Jace but Marco is a


    reliable assistant.


    I look at the newspaper and read the headlines.


    LHI CANCELED ITS PARTNERSHIP WITH HEARST.


    THE REASON FOR CANCELING LHI¡¯S PARTNERSHIP WITH HEARST.


    IS CIC BEHIND THE CANCELING OF THE LHI AND HEARST PARTNERSHIP?


    IS MR. ESCARRER AND MR. HEARST FIGHTING OVER MS. CABELLO?


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    Media is the best in making intrigued. I am not surprised by the headlines they made. The PR team


    of LHI will surely handle these issues well.


    ***


    ¡°Ulie you really cancel your contract with Hearst?!¡±


    I called Ulie as soon as I read the news about them. I was busy dealing with the problems that arise


    in CIC when I read this news on the inte.


    ¡°I need to do that for yourpany Ellie,¡± Ulie said on the phone.


    ¡°I am thankful because you care about mypany but you don¡¯t need to do this. You had a great


    partnership with them. I don¡¯t want you to lose a great partner just to help mypany.¡± I reasoned


    out.


    ¡°I am not only doing this for you, Ellie. Remember, I am also a major investor in CIC. I can¡¯t just do


    nothing while Nick is messing with yourpany. And as I told you before, I¡¯m sure that Nick


    expected this decision of mine to happen.¡± Ulie exined to me.


    I massage my temple because of all the stress that I am receiving because of Nick¡¯s decision.


    I can¡¯t help to feel sad because of this situation. Nick is a great friend. He helps me a lot when I


    needed it the most. I want to keep the friendship I had with him but because of all that happened, I


    don¡¯t think it is still possible for us to remain friends.


    I just hope that all of his actions will be worth it in the end. I really pray that he seeds in winning


    Hadley¡¯s heart.


    Speaking of Hadley, she is now on her way to my table.


    I am currently having lunch with Luna.


    ¡°You are all over the headlines again. Do you want to be a celebrity or something?¡± Hadley said in


    an insulting tone.


    ¡°What the-¡±


    I cut Luna off from saying things to Hadley. I don¡¯t want her to be involved in this issue. ¡°Luna stop.


    You don¡¯t need to stoop down to her level.¡±


    ¡°What did you say?!¡± Hadley said while fuming mad.


    ¡°Ms. Adelson, I don¡¯t want to be a celebrity or something. I didn¡¯t even make an effort to be in the


    news. Maybe I am that attractive that is why even the news wants a piece of me.¡± I told her to piss


    her off.


    ¡°You slut! Bitch! Is Kade still not enough for you? You seduce Kade¡¯s best friend Nick but dump him


    in the end! What kind of a person are you?¡± Hadley said. Her voice is a bit loud which made the


    people look in our direction.


    The people start murmuring while looking at our table.


    Is this one of her evil ns? It''s so cliche. Can¡¯t she think of any other style or move?


    ¡°I never seduce Nick.¡± I just said to her.


    I have no energy to argue with her anymore. I don¡¯t want to ride on her act.


    ¡°Oh really?! But why is Nick pulling out his investment in yourpany? Why is Nick look so


    heartbroken now?¡± Hadley said still in a loud voice.


    The people again start to murmur. I rolled my eyes at them. Another cliche thing. The people surely


    love to gossip.


    ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t know who is the girl Nick is in love with?¡± I asked her.


    Hadley flinched and became pale. That encourages me to tease or piss her off.


    ¡°Do you want me to tell you who is the girl that Nick truly loves?¡± I teased and pissed her.


    ¡°Of course it''s you!¡± Hadley hissed.


    I just shook my head from her denial. ¡°Are you sure that you want to waste your life chasing after a


    guy who doesn¡¯t love you even though you know that there is a great guy who is willing to do


    everything for you and will surely give you the love that you deserve?¡± I told her.


    I want Hadley to stop these crazy acts. She needs to understand that no matter what she does, Ulie


    will never love her because Ulie is already in love with me.


    Nick is a great guy! Why can¡¯t she see that?! Why can¡¯t she find herself giving another guy a


    chance to win her heart?


    Nick is not just anybody. Nick is one of the richest bachelors here in the country. Many girls would


    want to be his woman.


    I just hope that when the timees and she can finally see Nick¡¯s worth, it will not be toote for


    her.


    Quen was in love or thought that he was in love with her, and look what happen to Quen now?


    Quen realizes that the woman he was in love with was not Hadley but Ka.


    What if that also happens to Nick? Will she be okay?


    ¡°I don¡¯t need love from other guys. I only want Kade in my life. Chasing him is not a waste because


    he is worth the chase.¡± Hadley said.


    Is there really no hope for you Hadley?


    ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t want Nick? Are you sure that it''s okay if Nick will fall for someone else?¡±

 Chapter 58 FAKE NEWS

    Chapter 58 FAKE NEWS


    Hadley¡¯s effort yesterday to spread fake gossip did not go to waste. Our confrontation in the


    restaurant is now on the headline in almost all the newspapers.


    Every article is now saying that I broke Nick¡¯s heart that is why he pulled out his investment in CIC


    and I am the reason why LHI cancel his partnership with Hearst.


    I even look at the article in the online forum. People started to bash me and call me names. I am


    worried not for myself but for my kids. They are the ones who will be greatly affected by this news.


    I wanted to get angry with Hadley because she was the reason for all this. I don''t get why there are


    people who enjoy the suffering of others. They are so selfish to the point that they don''t care who


    will be affected by all their schemes. What only matters to them are their feelings.


    ¡°Ellie bad news the stocks keeps on going down. Some of our investors are getting worried.¡± Luna


    informed me.


    I nodded at her. ¡°I understand them. But assure them that this situation wille to pass. I am


    doing my best to solve the problem. Tell them to trust me. We can get through this.¡±


    ¡°I understand. I¡¯ll tell them that. We can ovee this battle. We have God on our side. Nick or


    everybody may abandon us but not God.¡±


    I smile at her. ¡°Thank you, Luna.¡±


    She smiles back and went out of my office.


    Luna is right, I should give all these issues to God. He will surely help me to get through this. This is


    one of the battles where I will surely be victorious, I just need to trust him. Just like what I did when I


    lost my parents.


    ¡°Ellie, Mr. Schulz wants to talk to you,¡± Luna said in the inte.


    My forehead creased. I don¡¯t remember that I have a schedule with him today. Why does he want to


    talk to me?


    Ellie, you will never know the answer unless you tell Luna to let Quen in. I told to myself.


    ¡°Let him in,¡± I told Luna.


    ¡°Noted. Thanks. Mr. Schulz, you maye in.¡± Luna said before she hangs up the inte.


    Quen knocked on my door before he went in. I went to Quen to greet him. I showed him the sofa


    where we could have our talk.


    ¡°What brings you here?¡± I ask Quen after we both settle on the sofa.


    ¡°I saw the news. I¡¯m sorry about Hadley.¡± Quen said.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to apologize to me. You did not do anything wrong to me. It was Hadley, she was


    the one who should apologize and not you.¡±


    ¡°I know. But Hadley was so angry with me. She doesn¡¯t want to trust me anymore. She thinks that I


    am taking your side. She won¡¯t tell me her ns anymore, so I wasn¡¯t able to stop her from what


    she did to you yesterday.¡±


    Hadley is so blessed with the people around her. I can see that Quen loves her genuinely. Though


    it¡¯s not a romantic kind of love. I hope she¡¯ll learn to look at other people and appreciate them.


    Hadley was blinded by her love for Ulie. It''s not healthy for her anymore. Hadley¡¯s love for Ulie


    brings out the worst in her. And that is the worst kind of love.


    ¡°Again, it¡¯s not your fault Quen. You don¡¯t need to apologize to me. I just hope that Hadley will soon


    realize that chasing Kade is not worth it. I hope she can see how much you guys love and care for


    her, especially Nick.¡±


    I saw Quen clench his jaw. I forgot that Nick and Quen are not on good terms. I wonder why? Is it


    because of their previous rivalry? But Quen is already in love with Ka, but why are they still like


    this?


    ¡°I honestly, don¡¯t like Nick for Hadley.¡±


    I frowned. ¡°Why not?l¡±


    ¡°He was spoiling her. He was the one who keeps on supporting Hadley in everything that she does.


    It doesn¡¯t matter to him whether it¡¯s good or bad. She¡¯s not healthy for Hadley. What Hadley needs


    is a guy who can handle her well and not someone who spoils her.¡± Quen hissed.


    I smile at him. I get his point. Nick has that tendency on Hadley. Maybe Nick is the reason why


    Hadley is so brave in doing all these. She was not afraid because she knows that Nick has her


    back.


    ¡°But we can¡¯t deny that Nick is very patient with her.¡±


    Quen looks at me intently. ¡°You should hate him you know. He is making you and yourpany


    suffer.¡±


    I just shook my head. ¡°Is this the only reason why you are here?¡±


    ¡°No. That is a minor reason for my purpose of going here. The main reason why I wanted to talk to


    you is that I want to invest in CIC.¡±


    My eyes widen by his sudden offer. Quen¡¯s offer is a great help to mypany¡¯s situation right now.


    Is this God¡¯s way of helping? Is God sending Quen here to help mypany?


    ¡°May I know why you want to invest in mypany?¡±


    ¡°I wanted to help you, I know yourpany needs an investor because of Nick¡¯s sudden pulled out.


    Also, I believe in yourpany. I know that it''s a worthy investment.¡±


    I was not able to stop my tears from flowing. Quen is indeed God sent.


    I was having a hard time looking for investors because most of them doesn¡¯t want to get involved in


    Nick and Ulie¡¯s issue. They don¡¯t want to offend anyone of them. And Ipletely understand.


    I can¡¯t give us thispany no matter how difficult the situation is because this is my parent''s


    legacy.


    ¡°Hey Ellie, are you okay?¡± Quen worriedly asked.


    I smile at him while wiping my tears. ¡°I¡¯m okay. I was just so happy to hear your offer. I really need it.


    Mypany badly needs it.¡±


    Quen went to me and hug me. I hug him back. I was not able to hold back. I cried in his arms.


    ¡°Hush now Ellie. Everything will be alright.¡±


    I just nodded at him.


    When I had already calmed myself down, I asked Luna to get us some coffee.


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    ¡°I heard from Ulie that he already remember your past with him,¡± Quen said Luna went out of the


    office.


    I nodded at him. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t look happy about it.¡± Quen noticed.


    I look at him. ¡°You too. I can see it in your eyes.¡±


    Quen sighed aloud. ¡°I guess we both have the same reason. I was scared of him remembering the


    past because he might also remember the reason why he tried to kill himself.¡±


    ¡°So you mean Ulie still has some memories that he can¡¯t remember?¡± I asked.


    Quen nodded at me. ¡°Yes. And I really hope that he won¡¯t be able to remember it.¡±


    I wanted to ask Quen about it. What exactly does he want Ulie to not rememberpletely? But I


    know that he will never tell it to me or anyone.


    ***


    We schedule a press conference a week after we finalized everything about Quen¡¯s investment in


    CIC.


    I feel like I was back in the moment where CIC had an issue with the LHI project. I am here again to


    clear some issues and announce our new investor.


    The press conference was held again in the LHI hotel. Ulie went with me to the press conference to


    answer some issues and to give me and mypany his support.


    When Ulie and I both settled in our seats, a legal representative from CIC gave the opening


    statement.


    Cabello International Corp will entertain their questions after we release our official statement about


    the issues for the past weeks.


    The legal representative called me to speak.


    ¡°First of all, I want to thank you for giving us your time to rify all the issues, not just about CIC but


    about my issues as well.¡± I started my speech.


    All the reporters are focused on my statement while busy typing on theirptop


    ¡°As you all know, Nick already pulled out out his investment on CIC. The reason for the sudden


    pullout is not because I rejected him or he has a feeling for me.¡±


    ¡°He decided to pull out his investment in mypany because of a girl. But it''s not me. It was the


    woman he loves and I can¡¯t tell the name of the girl because it¡¯s not my story to tell.¡±


    ¡°I am thankful for all the help and trust that Nick has given me. He was a great friend. But I guess he


    needs to do this to satisfy the girl he loves.¡±


    I know that all of them already know who is the girl I am referring to. But I doubt that they will do


    what they did to me to Hadley.


    They will never want to mess up with Hadley Adelson or else they will need to say goodbye to their


    career.


    After my statement, Ulie started to talk.


    ¡°It is true that I cancel the partnership that I had with Hearst Restaurant because of what they did to


    CIC. I will never allow anyone to mess up with CIC, especially Ellie.¡± Ulie said in an authoritative


    voice.


    ¡°I also want to rify my issue with Hadley Adelson. I never had a secret date with Hadley. And we


    are not back together because we never had a romantic rtionship, to begin with. Yes, I am once


    engaged with her but it was all arranged. You all know that.¡±


    ¡°The photos that leaked are true but it is not a date. It was a simple meeting because I ask her for a


    favor and that''s it.¡±


    ¡°I never loved Hadley or any other girl because there is someone who already owned my heart,


    since then until now. And it¡¯s none other than my Quinn, the mother of my children.¡±

 Chapter 59 NEW PARTNERSHIP

    Chapter 59 NEW PARTNERSHIP


    ¡°I never loved Hadley or any other girl because there is someone who already owned my heart,


    since then until now. And it¡¯s none other than my Quinn, the mother of my children.¡±


    People from the media started to ask questions.


    ¡°Why is Ms. Hadley acting like she had a rtionship with you?¡±


    ¡°Is it safe to say that Ms. Hadley is just delusional?¡±


    ¡°If Mr. Nick pulls out his investment from CIC because of the woman he loves, are you referring to


    Ms. Hadley?¡±


    Those are some of the questions that the reporters are throwing us.


    One from the team told them to raise their hand if they want to ask questions.


    We still have two announcements but we decided to entertain their questions since they look so


    eager to ask.


    ¡°Are you confirming your rtionship with Ms. Cabello?¡± One of the reporters asks Ulie.


    Ulie looks in my direction and holds my hand before he answered them. ¡°Yes. Ms. Cabello and I are


    officially a couple. She finally agreed to be my girlfriend.¡±


    I felt the butterflies in my stomach when Ulie said those words with full sincerity. I know that my face


    is now as red as a tomato.


    I saw the reporters busy typing from theirptops and taking pictures. Some are raising their hands


    to ask a question.


    ¡°Why is Ms. Hadley acting like Mr. Escarrer and her are back together?¡±


    ¡°As I said a while ago, Hadley and I have never had a rtionship. Our engagement is just


    arranged by our families. I am vocal about what I felt for her.¡± Ulie answered.


    ¡°Is it safe to say that Ms. Hadley is just delusional? Or she went here in the Philippines trying to win


    you?¡± Follow-up question of the reporter.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just say that she was blinded by her love for me. Hadley is a great woman. She was so nice


    and amodating when I was in the US. We became friends. And I hope that just like me, she


    will be able to find the right for him. The guy who can shower her with the love that she deserves.¡±


    Ulie answered instead.


    No matter how bad the things she did in us, I know that Ulie values her. He wanted to protect her


    but he had to do this because the situation asks for it. And just like Ulie, I also hope that Hadley will


    realize that the love that she has for Ulie is not healthy and not worth it. I hope she learns to


    appreciate the people who love her.


    ¡°Is Mr. Hearst in love with Ms. Hadley?¡± Another reporter asks.


    ¡°We are not in the position to confirm nor deny your question. You should directly ask Nick about it.¡±


    Ulie answered.


    I agree with him. Nick is the only person who can answer that.


    The questions from the press keep oning. We all patiently answered them.


    ¡°What will happen now to CIC that Ms. Hearst pulls out his investment?¡±


    Finally, someone asks us the question! I said to myself. Now am the perfect timing for important


    announcements.


    ¡°I honestly waiting for you guys to ask me that.¡± I started my speech.


    The people from the media chuckled. I smiled at them and continued my speech.


    ¡°I am saddened by Nick¡¯s decision but I epted it. I was thankful for the opportunity that he has


    given mypany and because of that, people see the potential and skills of the people working in


    CIC. I am grateful that another investor believed in CIC.¡±


    Again, people from media are busy taking photos and typing on theirptops.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I am pleased to introduce to all of you CIC¡¯s new major investor, Mr. Enrique Schulz!¡±


    The door on our right opened. Quen went inside the conference hall and was seated on his


    assigned chair.


    I gave the mic to Quen for his speech. The press started to raise their hands to ask questions.


    ¡°Mr. Schulz, did Mr. Escarrer ask you to invest in CIC?¡±


    I was not surprised by his question. I know that some will think that Quen only did it to help his


    friend¡¯s girlfriend. Everyone knows that Ulie and Quen are the best of friends.


    ¡°Ulysses never ask me to invest in CIC. I was the one who offers Ellie to be their investor. I will be


    lying if I told you that I did this not because I want to help Ellie with what she is facing right now


    because it is indeed one of the reasons why I wanted to invest in CIC.¡±


    ¡°As a friend, I want to help her in times like this. But my main reason why I made this decision is


    that I believe in CIC. I will not choose them to have the Schulz Tech project if they are not great at


    their work. I can see great potential in them. And I know that I will be the one who will be gaining


    more in this deal.¡±


    ¡°You are close with Ms. Hadley, are you not afraid that Ms. Hadley will get angry at you because of


    your decision?¡± Another reporter asks.


    They are surely very interested in Hadley. Most of their questions are about her.


    ¡°Hadley is a very special and important person in my life. She is like a sister to me. I know her more


    than anyone and I know that she will respect my decision.¡± Quen said.


    I smile at Quen¡¯s answer. He really cares for Hadley. I can¡¯t help but think about Ka¡¯s reaction.


    She was still insecure about Hadley. She can¡¯t fully ept Quen because she doubts Quen¡¯s


    feelings for Hadley.


    When the hype died down. I decided to tell them myst announcement.


    ¡°I have another announcement to make. But first I need to ask him to join us here.¡±


    The door from when Quen came from opened and reveal Jace. When Jace is already settled with


    his assigned seat, I continued my announcement.


    ¡°Two days ago I had a meeting with Mr. Nu?ez.¡±


    I shared with them the meeting that I had with Jace.


    shback


    I have a scheduled meeting with Jace. And as expected, Luna was so thrilled about it.


    From what I know, they can barely meet because Jace was busy with their business, and Luna was


    also busy because of mypany¡¯s dilemma.


    ¡°Baby!¡±


    I rolled my eyes at Luna. She tends to forget to be professional when ites to Jace. I get it that


    they are in love but can¡¯t they just be less cheesy?


    ¡°Hi, baby I miss you!¡± Jace whispered when he hugs Luna.


    I cough to get their attention.


    ¡°Ellie, I¡¯m sorry I forgot you''re here,¡± Luna said.


    ¡°Whatever!¡± I said to her then I rolled my eyes.


    Jace asks us to take our seats to start the meeting.


    ¡°How are you, Ellie? I heard about Nick¡¯s move on yourpany.¡± Jace said with full concern.


    ¡°I¡¯m good. The problem has been solved. Quen will be our new investor.¡± I told him.


    Jace just nodded. ¡°d to hear that. I¡¯m sure that Ms. Schulz will not miss this opportunity.¡±


    I just smiled at him.


    ¡°Anyway, as what I emailed you, Nu?ez Corp. will open a new mall in Cebu. This will be one of the


    biggest malls here in the country and we want CIC to get the project.¡±


    ¡°You are not nning to ask for some drafts from otherpanies?¡± I asked.


    Jace shook his head. ¡°That is just a waste of time. I already saw how you guys work. I know that


    you will give us the best n.¡±


    I was happy with what I am hearing from him but at the same time, I can¡¯t help but doubt his reason.


    I mean, Luna, his girlfriend is working in mypany. And because of my rtionship with Ulie, I


    became friends with him. So I can¡¯t help but think that he is being biased with his decision.


    ¡°Ellie, don¡¯t look at me like that. You don¡¯t need to doubt my decision. You have proven your


    company¡¯s worth for so long. You got all your projects fair and square. I just want to spare myself


    more works because as you can see I am loaded already.¡± Jace defends himself.


    ¡°Jace is right Ellie. Stop doubting ourpany. We deserve to have this project. And you don¡¯t


    need to worry because I already scrutinize his reasons before he gave you this project.¡± Luna said


    to help Jace in defending himself.


    There is zero chance to win when ites to these two.


    ¡°Fine. But thank you Jace for the trust that you have given us.¡±


    I am thankful for the friends I have right now. I consider them a blessing from God.


    ¡°Aside from that Ellie, I had a meeting with the board of directors and I share with them this


    decision. They all agree to give you the Cebu project and also, they agreed to have a partnership


    with CIC.¡±


    My eyes widen from Jace¡¯s statement.


    ¡°What do you mean by partnership?¡±


    Jace smiled at me and gave me a contract. I read the contract that he gave me. I was so shocked


    by the content of the contract.


    ¡°Are you serious with this?¡± I asked Jace.


    Jace chuckled then he nodded his head. ¡°You guys deserve it.¡±


    ¡°So you are telling me that after I signed this contract, all Nu?ez Corp¡¯s new mall projects and


    renovation will be given to CIC?¡± I asked him in disbelief.


    ¡°Yes. All the board of directors agreed on this. So you will be assured that I am not the only one who


    made this decision.¡±


    ¡°Wow! I don¡¯t know what to say. Thank you, Jace! Thank you so much!¡±


    End of shback


    ¡°I am here to formally announce the partnership of Cabello International Corp with Nu?ez


    Corporation.¡±

 Chapter 60 ELLIE’S PARENTS

    Chapter 60 ELLIE¡¯S PARENTS


    The press conference went well. Ourpany is the headline in all business newspaper.


    Ourpany stocks are doing well again. It went betterpared to the previous years. I should


    thank Ulie, Quen, and Jace for it.


    Their names have a big influence in the business world. I am grateful for them.


    But I will be very honest, it puts so much pressure on my part because people are expecting a lot


    from us.


    Thepany decided to organize a victory party for this huge sess. We invited the three great


    guys who help us to ovee this battle.


    ¡°How¡¯s the preparation for today¡¯s event?¡± I asked Luna.


    Luna was the one in charge of this event. She works hand in hand with our marketing team.


    ¡°Everything is going ording to n. The marketing team is already in the venue to have the final


    check of the things needed for the event. I will go to the venue around 1 pm to assist them.¡± Luna


    reported.


    I nodded at her. Luna is really dependable. As long as she is in charge, I don¡¯t have to worry


    because surely everything will be perfect.


    ¡°How about the special guests?¡±


    ¡°I call them awhile ago to remind them of the party and they all confirmed that they will attendter.¡±


    ¡°How about the gifts?¡±


    Luna handed me a gift box.


    ¡°This is the customize wine gift box that we requested. It has 5 wine gadgets that they will surely


    love. And of course, the wine that we ordered especially for them.¡± Luna exined.


    Chateau D¡¯YQUEM. It was a premium wine that cost more than $100,000.


    ¡°Good job as always Luna.¡±


    ¡°Mom, how do I look?¡± Alistair asked.


    I look at my five years old son. Alistair and Amelia will also attend the party. He is wearing a Paul


    Smith royal blue three-piece suit. Ulie is wearing the same outfit. The four of us decided to wear a


    matching outfit.


    ¡°You look dashing my son,¡± I told Alistair.


    Alistair smiled widely upon hearing my answer. He then turned to his twin sister.


    ¡°What do you think Amelia? Do I look dashing just like what our mom said?¡± Alistair said anticipating


    his twin¡¯s response.


    Amelia gave his twin brother a boring look. She then looks at his twin from head to toe. ¡°You look


    fine. I think Cassie will finally notice you.¡±


    Alistair''s eyes twinkle. He surely likes Amelia¡¯s answer. I was quite surprised by Amelia. She usually


    calls his brother ugly. Her ¡°fine¡± answer can be considered as aplement to Alistair.


    ¡°Daddy!¡± The twins called their dad upon seeing him entering the room.


    Ulie looks at me with admiration. He stops from walking and just stared at me. I suddenly feel shy


    because of his stare.


    ¡°Daddy, how do I look?¡± Amelia went to his dad and showed him her outfit.


    But Ulie wasn¡¯t answering. His full attention was still on me.


    ¡°Dad? Daddy? Daddy!!!¡± Amelia shouted.


    That is the only time, Ulie breaks his stare. He then scratches his head and looks at Amelia.


    ¡°Yes, baby?¡± Ulie awkwardly asked.


    ¡°Stop drooling at mommy and look at me, Daddy. How do I look?¡± Amelia said while she turns


    around to have a better look at her dress.


    Amelia and I were wearing a Rajo Laurel royal blue one-shoulder dress. The dress has a navy and


    nude floral embroidered one-shoulder sleeveless bodice, sweetheart neckline, and embellished


    details. It''s a floor-length fitted skirt with a slightly red end.


    ¡°You look dazzling my princess. ¡° Ulie answered.


    Amelia felt proud of what she heard from her dad. ¡°I know. Thank you, dad!¡±


    The event went well so far. I just finished my speech and went back to the VIP table where Quen,


    Luna, Jace, and the Escarrer family (including the twins) are seated.


    I noticed that Ka was not in the mood since I saw her tonight. I was bothered by it.


    ¡°Hey, Ka are you okay? Do you not like the party?¡± I can¡¯t help but ask.


    She frowned. ¡°I¡¯m okay. Why?¡±


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°You barely smile. You look mad or something.


    Are you sure you¡¯re okay?¡± I asked again.


    Ka was about to answer when Quen cut her off.


    ¡°I am the reason why she is acting like that.¡±


    I furrowed. ¡°Why? What happen?¡±


    Quen scratched his head. ¡°It¡¯s because of my answer regarding Hadley on the press conference.¡±


    ¡°What about that? What''s with your answer?¡± I asked a bit confused because I can¡¯t remember what


    he said wrong about Hadley.


    ¡°Quen said that Hadley is very special and important in his life, media assume that Quen has


    special feelings for her,¡± Luna whispered.


    ¡°But Quen said that Hadley is like a sister to her,¡± I said defending Quen.


    ¡°Exactly!¡± Queen said in agreement. Seems like he just remembers it just now.


    I just shook my head and look at Ka. ¡°Have you watched the whole press conference?¡±


    Ka averted her gaze and lower her head. ¡°I... I was busy with my work, so I... I forgot to watch.¡±


    Jace and Ulie started tough. We all look at them weirdly.


    Why the heck are youughing? This is a serious case.


    ¡°Sorry. We didn''t mean tough.¡± Jace said.


    Who will believe you? I said to myself.


    ¡°We just find it so funny. Ka is still insecure about Hadley?¡± Ulie asked.


    I saw Ka flinched. She is indeed insecure. But I don''t think that she is to me. Maybe the way


    Quen treat him before has affected her so much to the point that it became so hard for Ka to


    believe his confession or his feelings.


    ¡°Stop Interrogating Ka. I was at fault. I made the media thinks that I have a special feeling for


    Hadley. It is only right for Ka to feel that way.¡± Quen said in defense of Ka.


    ¡°I agree with Quen. We don''t have any right to question her or anything. It¡¯s Quen¡¯s job to assure


    her and not make her insecure.¡± I said then I look at Quen.


    ¡°You need to work harder.¡±


    The victory party was a sess, as expected. Everything is back again to normal. Ourpany


    became more in demand. We are now hiring more people to cater to all our clients.


    Today is my parents'' death anniversary. I still wish that they were here to celebrate this sess with


    me. And I am sure that my kids will love them.


    But I know God has a reason why my parents leave this earth so early.


    Ulie had an emergency meeting so he wille a bitte to my parents¡¯ mausoleum. The twins will


    go with me first. Then we will wait for Ulie to arrive and pay respect for my parents. As per him, he


    wanted to say something to my parents. And I find it so sweet.


    Ulie was not able toe with us in the past years because he was always out of town or out of the


    country for business. This month is the peak season of the hotels.


    ¡°Are you ready to see your grandma and grandpa again?¡± I asked the kids.


    ¡°Yes, mom!¡± They both said.


    I smile at them then I started to drive.


    The mausoleum is well maintained. I made sure that their ce will be as beautiful as our former


    mansion. I specifically design a mini-mansion on their mausoleum so that their bodies will still feel at


    home.


    I also made a room upstairs exactly as how their master bedroom looks like. The supposed living


    room is where their tomb is ced. Then we had a mini kitchen and dining area at the back of the


    tomb.


    ¡°Mom, I was always amazed whenever we went here. This ce doesn''t seem like a mausoleum at


    all.¡± Amelia said.


    I chuckled. ¡°Why? Have you seen the other mausoleum?¡±


    Amelia nodded. ¡°Yes, well I saw some mausoleum around here and I also saw the mausoleum in


    Cassie¡¯s grandparents when she invited me to visit her grandparents with her.¡±


    ¡°I told her how our mausoleum looks like. She was amazed when I told her about it. She would also


    like her grandparents¡¯ mausoleum to look like this.¡± Amelia added.


    ¡°Well, I can design a mausoleum for her. But not exactly like this. This design is based on my


    parent''s mansion. I designed this because I want my parents to feel at home since this will be their


    bodies¡¯ new home.¡± I exined to her.


    ¡°Really, mom? Can we visit grandma and grandpa¡¯s mansion?¡± Alistair requested with his twinkling


    eyes.


    ¡°Yes, mommy I also want to visit that mansion! Pretty please?¡± Amelia seconded her twin brother.


    ¡°What did I miss?¡±


    ¡°Daddy!¡±


    Amelia and Alistair are both excited to go to their father and both of them gave him a sweet kiss.


    Then Ulie walks towards me a gave me a quick kiss on the lips.


    ¡°The kids want to visit the Cabello mansion. I told them that this mausoleum is inspired by my


    parents'' mansion.¡± I exined to him.


    ¡°I would also love to. And I must say that you did a great job in this mausoleum.¡± Ulieplimented


    me.


    ¡°Thank you for thepliment. Finally, you were able to visit my parents with us.¡±


    ¡°I already put it in my calendar. I ask Marco not to ept any out-of-town nor out of the country


    business trip. But I was stillte because of the sudden meeting. I¡¯m sorry my Quinn.¡±


    I smile at him. ¡°You don¡¯t need to apologize. I understand. Also, we have our lifetime to visit my


    parents. We are not in the rush.¡±


    ¡°Thank you my Quinn for always being understanding. But I really want to meet your parents now. I


    have an important thing to tell them.¡±


    I nodded at him. ¡°Are you ready to meet them?¡±


    Ulie nodded. The kids and I showed him my parents'' tomb.


    ¡°Pierce and Penny Quinlyn Cabello,¡± Ulie whispered.


    A few momentster, Ulie started to touch his temple.


    ¡°Ahhhh!!!¡± Ulie screamed.


    The kids and I got panic. ¡°Ulie are you okay? What is happening to you?¡±


    ¡°My head hurts so much! Ahhhh!!!¡± Ulie said before he lost consciousness.

 Chapter 61 PAST

    Chapter 61 PAST


    I feel so empty.


    Without My Quinn, my life is so empty.


    Why did I say those things to her? Why did I hurt my Quinn?


    It¡¯s been a week since the new semester started. I thought that during the semester break, I was


    sessful in fooling myself that I did the right decision.


    But who am I kidding? I was afraid to lose her that is why I told her that I only see her as a friend. I


    want us tost that is why I want us to remain as friends. And now, I lost her forever.


    Can I really carry on my life without her?


    ¡°Call her,¡± Quen said when I call him on the phone and told him about what happened.


    Quen is my only best friend. I always tell him everything that is happening to me here in the country.


    Quen was in America to study. My sister is with him. My sister chose to study in the same university


    as him because she likes him. But my best friend only saw her as a friend, and he was in love with


    someone else.


    ¡°She will probably ignore my call,¡± I told Quen.


    ¡°Then go to her ce. You know where he lives right?¡±


    I nodded even though he can¡¯t see me. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no problem them. Go to her ce and apologize. Confess your real feelings for her then


    propose to her.¡± Quen said like it was so easy to do.


    I hurt him big time. It won¡¯t be easy for her to believe me. I am scared that he might reject me after I


    confess everything to her because of what I did to her. For sure she hates me to death now.


    In the end, I find myself dialing my Quinn¡¯s number. My forehead creased when I was not able to


    reach her number.


    Did she block me? Or did she change her number?


    I started to get panic. But then I remember Quen¡¯s advice. I hurriedly went to my car and started to


    drive to my Quinn¡¯s house. I feel like if I don¡¯t go to her now, I will really lose herpletely. And I


    will never let that happen.


    My shoulder fell when I found out that my Quinn and her family had already moved out. She really


    hates me. My Quinn hates me. What am I going to do now?


    I wentst week to the university she was supposed to transfer to and I found out that she cancel


    her transfer there.


    I was so lost for the past months. I didn''t know what to do. All I know is, my Quinn doesn¡¯t want me


    in her life anymore. Shepletely cut me in her life. I don''t have any means to reach her. She


    hates me that much, to the point that she made sure that I will not be able to locate her.


    The semester ended and I still can¡¯t find my Quinn.


    Where are you now my Quinn? I miss you so much. Please,e back to me. I will ept any


    punishment you want to give me but don¡¯t disappear from my life forever. I don¡¯t think I can survive


    in this life without you.


    In desperation of finding my Quinn, I hire a private investigator to look for her when the new


    semester started. And I know that I made the right decision because he was able to find my Quinn


    in just a month.


    When I finally found out where he chose to study, I immediately went to her university to look for


    her.


    I saw my Quinning out from her university with a group of people. It might be her ssmates or


    friends. Most of them were boys. I felt jealous when I saw a guy approaching her, making herugh.


    They went to what the student called ¡°walls of Intramuros¡± to eat. I saw how close she is to that guy.


    My heart started to harden. I am not ready yet to see her with another guy. Why the hell did I think


    that I want us to be just friends?! I can¡¯t bear to see her being close to another guy.


    Maybe I was not able to realize it before because I was the only guy she was close with. But seeing


    her now, I know that my choices before were full of rubbish and stupid decision.


    I decided to just go home. I don¡¯t think I have the strength to face her.


    The next day, I decided to go to my Quinn¡¯s house. I got the address from my investigator.


    Their new house has the same feel as their previous house. Maybe this is the kind of style that her


    parents prefer. I also found out that this house is one of their property. This is one of the first


    properties they both when their business started to grow.


    I saw my Quinn with her parents taking a walk. She looks happy and contented with her life right


    now. It seems like I don¡¯t have a ce with her anymore.


    It was different from what I was going through in past semesters. How can she be this happy while I


    feel miserable when I lost her?


    Is her love for me is not strongpared to mine that is why she can move on just like that?


    Does she really love me?


    I don''t know why, but I found myself following them. I don''t see any sadness in her eyes. It was full


    of happiness and contentment.


    I find my tears pouring. I know it sounds so shallow but I am really hurt by the fact that she can


    easily move on in her life.


    I know that I should be happy for her because regardless of what I did to her, she was able to move


    forward but I am not.


    In the back of my mind, I want to see her a bit sad because I was not in her life anymore. I want to


    longingness in he eyes but I found none.


    I was about to go back to my pad when I saw them entering their house when someone called me.


    ¡°Ulysses?¡±


    I froze. It was a woman¡¯s voice but I know it''s not my Quinn. I slowly turn around to face the person


    who called me.


    ¡°Auntie, good evening.¡± I greeted her.


    Auntie Penny smile at me and went near me.


    ¡°How are you, Ulysses?¡±


    I lower my head and started to sob. ¡°I am not okay. I made the wrong decision and I regret it so


    much!¡±


    Auntie Penny went to me andfort me. She then asks me to walk with her in the park near their


    house.


    I started to confess to her everything that happened. The wrong decision I made hurt her daughter


    and how I regret what I did to her.


    ¡°I feel so empty and lost when she suddenly disappear from my life. I did everything to find her but I


    was a bit disappointed when I saw how happy she is with her life right now even without me in it.


    She was easily able to move on from her love for me.¡± I honestly told her.


    Auntie Penny shook her head. ¡°You got it all wrong. She was devastated when you told her that you


    only see her as a friend. She loves you so much and she made herself believe that you feel the


    same with her. But when she found out that you were not on the same page, she hurt, big time.¡±


    ¡°It took her months of crying every night before she finally decided to forget you and move on in her


    life.¡± Auntie Penny added.


    ¡°She may look happy on the outside but when she was alone, that is where she removes her mask.¡±


    I was hurt hearing all the things that my Quinn went through because of my denial. But I am not


    fooling myself that I feel a bit happy when I heard that she was still sad. It only means one thing,


    that she was still in love with me.


    ¡°Auntie please allow me to talk Quinn. Allow me to confess my true feelings to her.¡± I said to Auntie


    Penny with full of hopes.


    Auntie Penny look at me intently which made me feel so nervous. ¡°Have you heard about the


    seasons of life?¡±


    My forehead creased. ¡°I haven''t heard about that.¡±


    ¡°In life, there are three seasons. Season to learn, season to earn, and season to get married.¡±


    Auntie started her speech.


    ¡°Season of learning is when you started to learn things to achieve your dreams, which is now. You


    are studying or taking up your chosen course to be able to achieve your dream.¡±


    ¡°Season of earning is when you started to make your dreamse true. And when you finally


    achieve sess in your career or goal then you are ready for the next season which is to get


    married.¡±


    ¡°Why are you telling me all this Auntie?¡± I asked a bit confused.


    ¡°I am telling you this because I want you to realize that season of learning is very crucial. I want you


    and Penelope to focus on your current season, which is learning. Love can wait. And if you really


    meant for each other then you will end up together. Trust God and trust his timing.¡±


    I chose to follow what Auntie told me. I gave this time to my Quinn for her to focus on her study. I


    also did the same.


    Yearster, my Quinn is done with her degree. I am nning to propose to her now. I want to ask


    her to be my girlfriend.


    Auntie Penny is the one who assured me that my Quinn is not seeing anyone. Which only means


    that I was still in her heart. That made me so hopeful of our future together.


    My Quinn¡¯s graduation came. I was so excited to finally see her. I was driving when I saw the light


    turn yellow. I know that I should stop my car because it will turn red very soon. But I was already


    late. So I continued driving. I was in the middle when the traffic light turns to red. I didn¡¯t see the car


    coming.


    I woke up in a very familiar ce. I know where I am right now. I am trying to remember what


    happened, then I remember the car ident.


    ¡°Ulysses! I¡¯m d you are finally awake.¡± My mom said while sobbing.


    I look at the people around me. Aside from my mom, I saw my dad, Ka, and Quen in the room.


    ¡°I am fine. Don¡¯t worry about me.¡±


    ¡°How can we not worry about you? You were in aa for three months!!!¡± Ka shouted then she


    started crying.


    I frowned. What?! Then what happened to my Quinn¡¯s graduation?


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± My mom started to panic when she saw me trying to move out of my bed.


    ¡°I need to go somewhere. I need to see someone.¡± I told them.


    ¡°If you want to know what happened to the people you crash your car with then I will just tell you.


    Stop moving and take a rest.¡± My mom said.


    I was taken aback. I almost forgot about them.


    ¡°What happened to them? Are they okay? Or are they also in aa just like me?¡± I asked


    worriedly.


    They all lower their head with made my forehead crease.


    ¡°They died. They are already dead on arrival in the hospital.¡± My mom said in a whisper but enough


    for me to hear.


    I was speechless. I can¡¯t utter anything after that.


    After a week, I already got the courage to ask them more about the people that died during the


    ident.¡±


    ¡°They are a married couple. They were about to go to their daughter¡¯s graduation but couldn¡¯t make


    it because of the ident.¡± My mom shared.


    What did I do? Because of my, that person lost his or her parents.


    ¡°Can I know their names?¡± I asked because I wanted to visit their grave and to apologize and offer


    help to their child.


    I know that it will be enough. But I want to support their child as long as I could.


    ¡°Their name is Pierce and Penny Quinlyn Cabello.¡±

 Chapter 62 GUILT

    Chapter 62 GUILT


    ¡°Are they Pierce and Penny Quinlyn Cabello that I know?¡± I asked Quen when we were the only


    ones left in the room.


    When nodded his head. ¡°I went to their wake as your representative. I saw Penelope there.¡±


    I was not able to talk not great after hearing what he just said.


    I am sure that my Quinn is devastated by the loss of her parents. I know how much she loves her


    parents.


    And now that they are gone, I can¡¯t imagine how she will be able to cope up with this. And how will


    she ept the fact that I am the reason why she lost her parents.


    ¡°How is she?¡± The only thing I said.


    Quen heaved a sigh. ¡°I guess she is coping up well. It was her graduation day when it happened.


    She was about to give her speech at her graduation because she graduated as summa cumude


    when she received a call that her parents had an ident and were dead on arrival.¡±


    ¡°She was able to finish her speech and went straight to the hospital to see their parents. As per the


    people there, Penelope never shed tears on them.¡° Quen added.


    ¡°She is not coping up well,¡± I said.


    Quen''s forehead creased. ¡°What do you mean? I saw her myself in the wake, she was handling her


    well.¡±


    I look at Quen intently. ¡°But she never shed a tear you said, right?¡±


    Quen nodded but looks confused.


    ¡°Then she was not alright. She was emotionally numb and that is not healthy for her.¡± I told Quen.


    Quen looks more confused by my answer.


    ¡°I read it once in an article online about being emotionally numb when you suddenly lose someone


    you love,¡± I exined to him.


    ¡°It may seem like a normal reaction to someone who loses someone unexpectedly but still, it is


    important to make sure that the person can grieve well. It involves understanding and processing


    the loss.¡± I added.


    ¡°If my Quinn will not be able to grieve properly, then she might lead to acute depression, anxiety,


    self-me, and many more.¡±


    Thinking those things makes me worried about her.


    I started to remove all things that the hospital put in my body.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Quen started to panic.


    ¡°I need to see my Quinn! She needs me! She needs my help!¡± I told him while I continue to remove


    all the apparatus in my body.


    Quen presses the emergency button. ¡°You need to calm down bro. You need to take a rest. You just


    woke up from aa. You can do that after you arepletely healed.¡±


    I shake my head. ¡°No! I can¡¯t wait anymore! I have been in aa for three months which only


    means that my Quinn is dealing with everything on her own. She needs me right now!¡±


    ¡°How can you say that when you are the reason why her parents died? She might loathe you


    instead of needing yourfort!¡± Quen shouted why trying his best to stop me.


    A few minutester, a group of nurses entered my room. They all try to stop me from moving. Then I


    saw one of the nurses get a syringe and inject it on me.


    I suddenly felt dizzy and sleepy. ¡°My Quinn! My Quinn needs me!¡± That is thest thing I uttered


    before everything went nk.


    When I woke up, I was alone in the room. I remember what Quen has said. He is right, when my


    Quinn found out that I am the reason why her parents died, she will surely loathe me.


    I was clearly at fault. If she decided to sue me, I will not defend myself. I will do my best to receive


    the highest punishment that I can get. I will hold justice for her.


    Then I thought of my parents. I am sure that they will not agree with me. They will do their best for


    me to win the case if my Quinn decided to sue me.


    I am afraid not because I might end up in jail but by the fact that my Quinn will never be able to


    forgive me.


    Of all people, I know how much she loves her parents. She will do everything for them.


    And I don¡¯t know if I can ept the loathe that she will have for me. I don¡¯t know if I even deserve


    her forgiveness. What I did is not something that people can easily forgive.


    One thing is for sure, I want her to receive the justice that she deserves.


    I remove all the apparatus in my body and I did my best to go to thefort room. When I saw the


    mirror, I gave all my strength to punch it. I ignore the bleeding in my hands.


    I need to bleed more. I said to myself.


    I pick up one of the broken sses from the mirror and cut my wrist.


    ¡°Ulysses? Big bro?¡±


    I got panic when I heard Ka¡¯s voice. I cut myself more. I was thinking of my Quinn when I am


    doing it.


    My Quinn this is for you! I will take revenge for you!


    ¡°Brother!!!¡±


    ***


    ¡°Why did he try to kill himself?¡± I can hear my mom¡¯s voice.


    ¡°Maybe because of guilt? Someone died because of him.¡± Karma said.


    ¡°But it was not his fault. He doesn¡¯t want it to happen.¡± My mom tried her best to defend me.


    I opened my eyes and saw a white light and white walls. I am sure that I am in a hospital. But why


    am I here? What did the hell happen?


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Ulysses!¡± They all called my names wearing their worried face.


    I look at them full of confusion. ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°Seriously, you are asking us that?!¡± Ka said a bit pissed.


    I ignore her and look at Quen. ¡°What happened to me? Why am I here?¡±


    ¡°You tried tomit suicide,¡± Quen exined.


    My forehead creased. ¡°Why will I do that? And how long am I here?¡±


    Quen exined to me about my ident and my suicide attempt, While my parents ask for my


    doctor.


    I don¡¯t remember anything from the ident and even my suicide attempt. They told me that maybe


    I was too guilty because someone died during the ident that I was involved with.


    They did not give me all the details. I look at Quen and I feel like he is hiding something.


    End of shback


    ***


    When I woke up, I was already in the hospital.


    I only saw Quen in my room. I feel like I am in Deja Vu.


    ¡°I finally understand why you kept me in the dark for all these years,¡± I told Quen while looking at


    him intently.


    ¡°You remembered,¡± Quen said while his eyes widen.


    I nodded at him. ¡°Yes. I remember everything. I don''t know how to face Ellie anymore. Now that I


    know everything, I felt so ashamed of being happy with her when in fact I was the cause of her


    misery.¡±


    ¡°I broke her heart and I even killed her parents.¡±


    ¡°That was already in the past bro. Don¡¯t let the past ruin your family.¡± Quen said.


    Iughed bitterly. ¡°How can I not think about it when it involves Ellie?¡±


    ¡°What done is done, bro. You can¡¯t go back to the past. But you canpensate her now.¡± I can


    feel that Quen is doing his best to console me.


    ¡°No matter what I do, I will never be able topensate for her loss,¡± I said to him.


    ¡°What will you do now then? Are you going to kill yourself again as you did years ago? Think about


    your children you selfish moron!¡± Quen hissed.


    I shook my head. ¡°You are right. I can¡¯t kill myself anymore because of my children. I don¡¯t want to


    burden Ellie more by raising our child alone.¡±


    ¡°Good thinking bro.¡± Then Quen sighed in relief.


    ¡°But why Ellie did not know that I was the one who killed her parents?¡± I asked Quen.


    ¡°You did not kill them okay? It was an ident.¡± Quen said tofort me.


    I gave him a forced smile. ¡°You don¡¯t need tofort me. I am well aware of what happened. I know


    what I did. Just answer my question.¡±


    Quen just shook his head. ¡°She did not dig into details. She did not even file a case. She just


    epted the fact that her parents died and go on with her life.¡±


    When I was left all alone, I can¡¯t stop thinking about my Quinn. I don¡¯t know how to face her without


    my guilty feeling.


    Ellie didn¡¯t even try to give justice to her parents. She just epted everything. How lonely can she


    be?


    Ellie¡¯s decision made me feel even more guilty.


    ***


    ¡°How are you feeling?¡±


    I was weed by Ellie¡¯s voice and worried face when I woke up.


    I look at her. I am trying to memorize her face because I don¡¯t know if I will have this kind of


    opportunity again.


    ¡°Hey, why are you not answering me? Are you okay? Do you want me to call for a doctor?¡± Ellie


    started to panic.


    She was about to call for a doctor when I grab her hand and stop her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t call them. I am fine.¡± I told her.


    Ellie turned to me and brush my hair. I close my eyes while feeling her touch.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± Ellie said full of concern.


    I can¡¯t take it anymore. I tried my best to stand.


    I saw Ellie panic. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    I ignore Ellie and I continue to remove the dextrose and started to kneel in front of her.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Ellie! I¡¯m sorry my Quinn! It was all my fault! I¡¯m sorry! I¡¯m sorry!¡± I said repeatedly.


    ¡°What are you saying? Can you calm down first?!¡±


    I look at her, still kneeling in front of her. ¡°I was the one who killed your parents. I was the one who


    causes the ident.¡±

 Chapter 63 MURDERER

    Chapter 63 MURDERER


    ¡°I was the one who killed your parents. I was the one who causes the ident.¡±


    ¡°What are you saying?¡±


    I was so worried when Ulie suddenly passed out after he was shouting for pain. I immediately call the ambnce.


    shback


    The first person that came out of my mind was Quen. I called him and told him about what happened.


    ¡°How is he?¡± Queen said as soon as he arrived at the hospital.


    ¡°The doctor said that he is stable now. But they will run some tests to find out why he was suddenly in pain.¡± I said.


    ¡°What happened? Where were you again when Ulysses was suddenly in pain?¡± Quen asked.


    My hand was still trembling from fear. Thoughts came through my mind. Is Ulie sick? If yes, is he aware of his sickness? Is he going to be okay?


    I was back from deep thinking when I felt Quen''s hand on mine.


    ¡°Ellie rx. Ulysses will be okay. Can you tell me now what happened?¡± Quen asked me again.


    I heaved a sigh before I answered him. ¡°We were in my parents¡¯ mausoleum. He was fine when he arrived until we reach my parent''s tomb. He even


    uttered my parents¡¯ name and then he touches his temple then he was already in pain.¡±


    I saw Quen flinched and his face paled. He clears his throat. "He went to your parents¡¯ mausoleum?¡±


    My forehead creased. ¡°Yes, why? Is there any problem? Is he not allowed to go there?


    Quen averted his gaze. ¡°That- that¡¯s what I meant. I was just surprised that for many years he just visit them now.¡± He said a bit ufortable.


    I was confused by his reaction but I just ignore it.


    ¡°Ulie was always busy in the past years. He was either out of town or out of the country. We all know that this month is the peak season for hotels. He


    intentionally cleared his schedule today for him to pay respect to my parents.¡± I exined to him.


    Quen still looks uneasy. ¡°Oh, I see.¡±


    End of shback


    ¡®I already remembered everything. All my lost memories.¡± Ulie confessed.


    ¡°What exactly do you remember?¡± I asked trying my best to be calm even though my hands are shaking.


    I don''t know if I''m ready to hear it, but I know I should hear it. It involves my parents¡¯ death


    ¡°l- I was... I was on my way to your graduation.¡±


    ¡°You were what? How did you know about graduation?¡± I asked more confused.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I told you, I was in love with you, I was denying it to myself because I was afraid that if ever we couple and our rtionship didn¡¯t work out, then I will


    lose you forever. But when you left, I feel so empty. I felt like you bring my heart with you. I can¡¯t fool myself anymore. I love you and I can¡¯t live


    without you.¡±


    I know I should feel happy hearing this from him but I can''t. I was so eager to know about my parents. Why did he say that he killed them? What


    really happened on that day?


    ¡°I look for you. I even hired an investigator just to find you.¡±


    My eyes widen. Is he that eager to find me?


    ¡°Then why didn''t I see you nor talk to you when I transferred school?¡± I asked.


    I know for sure that if he really hired an investigator, he will definitely find me.


    ¡°Because your mom requested it from me,¡± Ulie answered.


    My forehead creased again. ¡°Why she will request you that?¡±


    ¡°Your mom told me about the seasons of life. As per your mom, you were devastated when I broke your heart. It took you months of crying every


    night before you finally decided to forget about me and move on in your life.¡±


    ¡®This is your mom''s exact message on me... ¡®I want you to realize that season of learning is very crucial. I want you and Penelope to focus on your


    current season, which is learning. Love can wait. And if you really meant for each other then you will end up together. Trust God and trust His timing.¡¯


    It was so clear to me.¡± Ulie added.


    ¡®I give in to her request because I know that it is what''s best for you. And I want you to achieve your dream. I dan¡¯t want to be a hindrance to you.


    That''s why I waited.¡±


    ¡°And then? What happened to my parents?¡± I asked


    I don¡¯t want my feelings for him to take over what I feel right now. I want to know exactly what happened to my parents at that time.


    I was in denial of what¡¯s happening at that time. Even though their dead bodies are already in front of me. It took me years to finally ept that they


    are already gone and I was left alone.


    I didn''t investigate the ident because of my denial.


    Ulie lowered his head. "I- I was about to go to your graduation... To... to congratte you and- and at the same time to... To propose to you. Your


    parents are aware of it. I was in constantmunication with them.¡±


    I didn''t say nor react. I just waited for him to finish his story.


    ¡°Remember my trauma about the traffic light?¡± Ulie asked.


    I nodded because I remember. It was still clear to me how guilty he was at that time.


    ¡°I was in a hurry to arrive at your


    graduation verue, I saw the yellow


    traffic light-t ae my desire to arrive


    fast, I drove¡¯ fast so that I can reach


    the alongside the road. But I was Still


    seconds behind. I was not able+to


    stopvand go back before the¡¯


    pedestrianne. I didn''t native the


    car wasing. I tried t@¡¯avoid it


    but I hit another car instead.¡±


    ¡°And the car that you hit was my parents¡¯ car? Am I right?


    Ulie nodded and lower more his head


    I was not able to handle my trembling, I fell and Ulie catches me.


    ¡°Get your hands off me you murderer!¡± I said in pure rage.


    Ulie was taken aback by my remarks. I ignore him and tried to stand by my own. My body was still trembling.


    ¡°I''m sorry Ellie. I''m sorry my Quinn. I... I was wrong. I''m sorry.¡±


    I can see his sincerity. I can see how guilty he was. And he deserves it.


    ¡°How dare you forget about what you did?! How dare you live in peace for years without thinking how you killed my parents?! How dare you?!!!¡± I


    shouted.


    . Iwas wrong... I¡¯m sorry Ellie. I''m sorry.¡± Ulie said still kneeling on me


    ¡°Don''t you dare call my name! You disgust me, murderer!¡± I shouted again before I went out of his office.


    Then I saw Hadley''s shocked face in front of the door. I wipe my tears and look at her.


    ¡°This murderer is all yours now!¡±


    I went straight to my parents¡¯ mausoleum. I took our happy family album. I was sobbing while turning the pages of the album.


    If only Ulie followed the traffic light then my parents should still be alive right now.


    If only Ulie didn''t love me and if only I didn¡¯t love him then my parents¡¯ death can be avoided


    ¡°Mom, dad I''m so sorry. I love the wrong person. If only I didn''t let myself fall for him then all these things will not happen. You will still be with me and


    living happily together.¡±


    All the memories I had with my parents went back. Especially the time when I was so heartbroken.


    shback


    om, dad he.eroke my heart. I


    thought thatwe have a mutual


    understanding, that he also loved ~


    me but (was wrong. All the a


    sweetness and kindness he showed


    to me-were nothing to him. I owas


    nething to him!¡± I told my parents


    While crying in their arms;


    ¡°Hush now mydear. You should


    never assume''something that is not


    ye spoken or else you will expect


    much and get but when the things¡±


    you ex@¨¦cted didn''t happen. He


    nevertold you that he was intove


    wit¨¦ you, right?¡± My mom gently


    Says.  ta


    ¡°But he kissed me!¡± I said even though I feel a bit embarrassed.


    ¡°Why did you let him kiss you without clearing yourbel?¡± My mom scolded me.


    I look at my dad and he was looking at me.


    I cleared my throat. ¡°I like him. And I thought he also likes me. I mean he was raised in another country and their culture is like that.¡± I reasoned out.


    ¡°Exactly the point. Their culture is different from ours so it''s eptable that the kiss you shared is nothing to him because it''s verymen in their


    country.¡± My mom exined.


    I was dumbfounded. My mom got a point.


    ¡°Just forget about him. I know it''s not easy but you can do it. I know you are strong. You can ovee it. And remember the seasons of life? Just


    focus on your season and love will find you. if it''s already your season.¡±


    I wasforted by my mom''s advice. My parents were the only people I can count on. Without them, I don''t know if I can survive in this life.


    My heart may be broken many times, but as long as my parents are with me. I know I can ovee.


    End of shback.


    ¡°Mom, dad I miss you so much! I feel so disputed right now. I let that murderer be in my life. He was the father of my children! How did I let that


    happen?¡±


    I touch their tomb and hug it.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry mom, dad, I fell in love with that murderer.

 Chapter 64 ALONE TIME

    Chapter 64 ALONE TIME


    I woke up with a heavy heart. I look at myself in the mirror. My eyes were swollen from crying all night.


    I still can''t believe that this is all happening. I can¡¯t believe the person I entrusted my heart to broke it again for the second time.


    I regret meeting him.


    My phone rang. It''s the phone we gave to the twins.


    ¡°Hello?¡±


    ¡°Mommy! Where are you? Why are you not staying in the house? Are you with dad?¡± Amelia asked


    My eyes started to well up again. ¡°I... I was at your grandparents¡¯ mausoleum. I dream of them and they said that they miss me. So I might stay here


    for a while.


    ¡°What will happen to us then? Dad is still in the hospital. And you are staying at grandma and grandpa¡¯s mausoleum.¡± Amelia asked. Her voice


    sounds so sad.


    I bit my lower lips. I¡¯m sorry my children. I can''t meet you right now. I¡¯m feeling devastated and I might not be able to hide it in front of you. I may hate


    your dad but I don''t want you guys to know what happened in the past. I don''t want to pass this burden on you. Just give mommy time to heal. A time


    to recover. A time to be brave again to move forward.


    ¡°I will ask your Auntie Ka to pick you up. You will stay in Escarrer¡¯s mansion for the time being.¡± I said instead.


    ¡°Okay, mom. But I hope you wille home soon. We miss you and dad. We love you!¡±


    ¡°I love you two, my children!¡± I said then I end the call.


    I started to sob again. My heart feels so heavy. If I were to choose, I wanted to leave this world and be with my parents because I miss them so much.


    But my children are the ones stopping me from doing it.


    My children are my new life now. If there is one thing I don¡¯t regret meeting Ulie, it''s my children. I will never regret having Amelia and Alistair in my


    life. They are my joy and my strength to move forward


    I''m sorry kids if I can¡¯t be with you right now. Just give me this time. I will make it up to you.


    I asked for three days vacation leave in the office. I know I wan''t be able to work properly because of what I am going through right now.


    Three days have past and I need to face the reality.


    ¡°You look sick!" Lunamented as soon as she saw me.


    She followed me in my office just to say that.


    ¡°Hey, are you okay? Do you want to share something? Or hug to make you feel better?¡± Luna offered.


    I look at her and my eyes started to well up. ¡°I really need a hug right now.¡±


    Luna went to me and gave me a warm hug. I hug her back and I lost it. I cried like there¡¯s no tomorrow.


    I badly need someone tofort me because I feel like I am already on my limit.


    ¡°Hush now Ellie. I heard that Ulie will be discharged tomorrow. He will be alright.¡± Luna said tofort me.


    ¡®I don¡¯t care about him!¡± I hissed.


    Luna broke from our hug and frowned. ¡°What are you saying? Isn''t he the reason why you are crying this hard?¡±


    I rolled my eyes. ¡°Why will I cry for that guy?! He is a murderer!¡±


    ¡°W-what? What are you saying, Ellie?


    My eyes widen from the realization of what I just spoke. Luna looks at me intently.


    ¡°What do you mean by the murderer? Why did you call Ulysses a murderer? What the hell happened?¡± Luna said in a cold voice.


    I sighed aloud. I had no choice but to share the truth with Luna. I trust her. I know she can keep a secret.


    I told Luna everything that Ulie told me. From the time I left him and transferred to another school to the ident.


    I also told her what favor my parents asked Ulie.


    ¡°What a twist. Are you sure?¡± Luna asks still not able to believe what I just said


    ¡°Yes. Do you think Ulie will make himself a murderer if it wasn¡¯t true?!¡± I hissed


    ¡®I''m sorry Ellie. It''s just so hard to believe. Also, Ulie has a problem with his memories. It might not be the truth, I mean it might be just his


    hallucination or something.


    Luna was still hopeful that Ulie was just hallucinating. I also wish that he was just hallucinating. But no, I am done fooling myself because of him.


    ¡®I already confirmed it with Quen."


    ¡°Oh, the all-knowing friend of Ulie. What did he tell you? I heard that he was the only person who knew about Ulie¡¯s lost memories. He is reliable.¡±


    Luna said while her shoulder dropped.


    shback


    ¡°Ellie! Why are you-¡± Quen wasn''t able to finish what he is about to say when he saw tearing falling my eyes.


    I just went out of Ulie''s room when Quen saw me


    ¡°What is wrong? What happened?¡± Quen asked with full concern.


    ¡°Is this what you are hiding from all of us?¡± I asked him.


    ¡°Huh? What do you-¡± His eyes widen when he finally realizes what I mean to say.


    I nodded at him. ¡°Yes, Ulie finally remembers everything. How dare you hide this truth from me?!¡± I said in full rage.


    This guy knew everything from the start. He intentionally let Ulie not remember what he did. He surely is a great friend!


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to hide it from you. I was just-" Quen was not able to finish his answer because I cut him off. I don¡¯t want to hear his bullshit answer.


    ¡°Oh, you shut up! Do you think I will listen to your bullshit exnation? And what did you say? You didn¡¯t mean to hide it from us? You will never fool


    me anymore.¡± I hissed.


    He always thinks about Ulie, not me. He doesn¡¯t care about even a bit!


    ¡®I¡¯m telling the truth, Ellie. I just hide the truth from everyone because I''m afraid Ulie will try to kill himself again.¡± Quen tried his best to convince me.


    You still let me fall in love with the person who killed my parents! I will never forgive you!


    ¡®I don''t care! All I know is that I


    deserve to know this truth. And you


    hide it fromeveryone so that Ulie


    can live bidlife peacefully which he


    didn¡¯ deserve! He should never. >


    forgetwhat he did to my parents. He


    shold not forget that he is a


    rourderer! And you are his


    aplice!¡± I said then fbump his


    shoulder as I leave the hospital.


    End of shback.Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    ¡°I still can¡¯t believe that this is all happening. I feel like I''m watching a TV drama right now. Don¡¯t you have any ns to return to your house? I¡¯m sure


    the kids miss you.¡±


    I heaved a sigh. It''s been a week since I starter living at my parents¡¯ mausoleum. I know that regardless of my situation, I should be a mother to my


    children. But I really can''t do it right now,


    Also, Ulie is living in my penthouse right now. He was discharged from the hospital days ago. He was the one taking care of the kids.


    I let myself be drowned with work. I want to be busy as long as I could, in that way I will forget all the pain I have right now even if it''s just temporary.


    I miss my children so much and I really feel sorry for them. I know I was not able to fulfill my duty to them as their mother. But I hope that they will


    understand.


    I was so engrossed with my work when my inte rang.


    ¡°Yes, Luna?"


    ¡°Ellie, Hmmm, U-Ulysses is here to t-talk to you. Should I let him in?¡± Luna carefully asked.


    I furrowed. What is he doing here? How dare hee to my parents''pany?!


    ¡°Tell him to get out!¡± I said coldly at Luna.


    ¡°Ellie.¡±


    It was the murderer! My heartbeat was faster but this time because of rage! I don''t want to see him nor listen to his voice.


    I was about to hang up when he started to talk


    "EI


    ie, I know how much you hate me


    right nowel can''t me because.¡±


    even I, hate myself. What I did is-


    forgivable. I get it. I will never ask


    u-to forgive me because Idon''t


    ave the right to have it.¡± Content


    b¨¦longs to  ~


    V


    ial


    (o)


    u


    y


    h


    ¡°I love you but I know I am thest person to deserve your love. Like what you said, I''m a m-murderer...¡± Ulie¡¯s voice broke.


    Listening to his voice broke my heart even more. Because no matter how hard I try to deny it, I love this guy who killed my parents. And that is what


    made it worst!


    ¡°The kids miss you so much. They want to be with their mom.¡±


    What he just said brought tears to my eyes. My babies. I''m so sorry for going this thru.


    ¡°You should cpme home now. I will


    leave the perithouse. I don''t belong


    there anymare. I never belong ther¨¦e>


    to begin with. I shouldn''t have foreed


    myselfinto your life. You will feel


    this worst if you didn¡¯t meet me


    again. ">


    6


    I closed my eyes as I listen to his voice.


    ¡°Come back home. The kids are waiting for you.¡±

 Chapter 65 AMELIA

    Chapter 65 AMELIA


    ¡°Come back home. The kids are waiting for you.¡±


    I was stunned for a moment. We often believe that everything happens for a reason. But I can''t seem to figure out why all these things happened.


    Why did God let me fall for someone responsible for my parents¡¯ death? Why did God let me have children with him?


    I even let myself believe that Ulie was the one for me.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    I did not notice Luna¡¯s presence. I was so consumed by my emotion.


    ¡°I would be lying if I told you that I am okay because it¡¯s so obvious that I am not,¡± I told Luna


    ¡®I''m sorry. I shouldn''t have asked that. That was insensitive of me.¡± Luna said looking apologetic.


    I shook my head. ¡°That''s nothing. I know you mean well.


    ¡°So what''s your decision? Are you going back to your penthouse?¡± Luna asked


    I nodded. ¡°If Ulie will leave the penthouse then I need to go back home. No one will take care of the twins in our home. Also, I already miss them and I


    know they miss me too.¡±


    One thing I¡¯m grateful about is my twins¡¯ way of thinking. They are so mature for their age. They can easily understand the situation and were able to


    adjust. Just like now.


    I hope that when they found out that Ulie and I are over, they will also understand and respect our decision.


    After a few hours, I received a text message from Ulie.


    From Ulie:


    I already packed my things and left the penthouse. You can go back now. I told the twins that you will pick them up at school today.


    I took a half-day leave from work. I went to my parents¡¯ mausoleum to get some of my things and to say goodbye to my parents.


    After I''m done packing my few clothes I visited my parents¡¯ tomb to properly say goodbye.


    ¡°Mom, dad I need to go back home now. Ulie already left my house. The twins need me now. I¡¯m sorry again for all of this. I can¡¯t help but me


    myself. If only I did not fall for that guy or I never met him, you will still be here with me.¡±


    ¡°Mom, dad help me to get through this. Help me to move forward with my life. And help me to exin all these things to the twins. I hope and pray


    that they will understand the situation.¡±


    ¡°I hope that they can forgive me because I will not be able to do what they want. I will not marry their dad and carry his name. I will never ept the


    fact that I will carry the name of your murderer.¡±


    ¡°Mom, dad, goodbye! I''ll see you soon.¡±


    I looked at my watch. I am just in time to pick up my kids. I saw studentsing out of the school gate.


    I waved at Amelia and Alistair when I saw them at the school gate.


    ¡°Mommy!¡± They both shouted.


    When I reached them, I spread my two hands to ask for a hug. The two of them were very willing to give me my request.


    ¡°We miss you so much, mommy!¡± Amelia said while they are hugging me.


    ¡°I miss you both so much too!¡± I said then I broke the hug and kisses them.


    I didn''t realize how much I miss them. I was so consumed by my emotion. I will really make it up to them.


    ¡°What do you want to eat?¡± I asked them


    Their eyes twinkled.


    ¡°Donuts!¡± Says Amelia.


    ¡°Ice cream!¡± Says Alistair.


    ¡°Okay! Then let¡¯s go?¡±


    We ate lunch first before I ordered what they requested a while ago.


    I was happy looking at my kids happily eating. I was just a bit worried about how I will exin to them about their father.


    I wanted to prolong my confrontation with the kids that is why I ask them to go shopping with me. I bought all the toys that they want.


    I know bribing is not a good way of dealing with kids. I was really scared of how they will react and if they will choose to stay with me.


    ¡®I''m sure dad will be shocked when he sees all these toys,¡± Alistairmented.


    I just smile at him. We are heading home. My heart won''t stop beating so fast. I am nervous and scared.


    When we reached home, the twins went straight to their father''s room to show all their shopping bags to their dad.


    ¡°Why dad isn¡¯t here yet? It''s almostte. He should be here by now.¡± Ameliamented.


    ¡°Let''s just call, dad,¡± Alistair suggested


    I cleared my throat. It''s time. I went to them and seat to level them.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Amelia, Alistair, I will tell you something. Just listen first and try your best to understand.¡± I started my speech


    Both of them look at me with not much reaction


    ¡°Okay,¡± Alistair said


    I sighed aloud. ¡°Your... Your dad and I... We are over.¡±


    Both of them crease their forehead.


    ¡°What do you mean mom?¡± Amelia asked


    ¡°Your dad... a-and I... We have broken up.¡± I finally said it.


    Their eyes widen.


    ¡°Your lying mom! Then where is dad?¡± Amelia said and started to cry.


    ¡°Your dad already left. We can¡¯t be together anymore, so he can''t stay here anymore.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Amelia asked while Alistair is just staring at me.


    I honestly dan''t know how to answer that. I don''t want them to know the truth. I don¡¯t know what will be the effect on them if they found out the true


    reason for our sudden breakup.


    ¡°Something happened that lead us to separate,¡± I told them


    ¡°What exactly happened? Why dad is not here with us anymore?!¡± Amelia shouted.


    ¡°Lower your voice, Amelia. Dad will get angry if he found out that you shouted at mom.¡± Alistair warned his twins.


    ¡°Will dad even care about that? Didn''t you hear mom? They broke up!¡± Amelia hissed.


    m sure. Because we know how much dad loves mom.¡± Alistair answered her.


    ¡°They why are not together anymore? Why?!" Then Amelia started to cry aloud.


    My heart tightened. It''s hard for me to see them like this. But what can I do? I can¡¯t be with their dad anymore.


    I went to Amelia and hug her tight. ¡°I''m sorry sweetie if I can¡¯t be with your dad anymore.


    Amelia did not give me an answer. She cries non-stop.


    After a while. I was finally able to put Amelia to sleep.


    I look at Alistair. He was so calm during the confrontation. He is now looking at me.


    I went to his bed and caress his face. ¡°I¡¯m sorry about all this. You and your twin sister didn''t deserve to experience this.¡± I whisper to him.


    ¡°Don''t worry about me, mom. Dad exined it to me already. He asks me to look after you since he wan''t be here anymore.¡± Alistair said.


    I was curious about what exactly did Ulie told him. How did he exin this to him?


    ¡°Dad told me that he made an


    unforgivableynistake in the past and


    both of you just found it recently.


    Dad alSaid that I should never


    me-you because he was at fault


    for everything and you are the-


    vietim. And I should never leave you


    b¨¦tause you need me th¨¦ most.¡±


    My tears kept flowing as I hear my son''s word. I can''t believe I was talking to a kid.


    ¡°Thank you, baby. Thank you so much.¡± I said then I hug him while sobbing


    ¡°You know that you will always have my back mom. But I still hope that you and dad will reconcile. I miss us four together.¡± Alistair said with full of


    hope.


    I was not able to answer him


    Weeks have passed since the confrontation. It was not easy. Amelia still keeps on asking about his dad. I can''t me her though, because since


    then, she was a daddy''s girl.


    I was able to tolerate Amelia''s persistence to convince me to ask his dad toe back to us, until one day I have reached my limit.


    ¡°Mom, why can''t you forgive dad? I''m sure whatever he did to you, he never meant to do it.¡± Amelia started to convince me.


    Just like any other day, I just chose to ignore her request.


    ¡°Mom! Why cart you think about us


    even just onde? You are so Selfish!


    I''m starting to hate youl! I''m sure that


    whateverdad did to you is not really


    a big deal! Dad will never do things


    thatwill hurt you because hetoves


    yotr so much!¡±


    4


    Amelia¡¯s words lead me to my limit. What their dad did to me is not a big deal? Killing my parents is not a big deal?


    I look at her with pure coldness. ¡°If you want to be with your dad so bad, then go. No one is stopping you.


    Amelia was stunned by what I said. She started to sob and went out of my room.


    I know I shouldn''t have said that but


    my emotion got me. I decided to.go


    to her atid apologize. Their roonris


    open. +-was about to go inside-when


    heard Amelia talking on thephone


    that we provided them. Content


    b¨¦longs to  ~


    ¡°Please Auntie Ka get me out of here. My mom hates me. She doesn¡¯t want me here anymore. I miss my daddy. I want to be with him.

 Chapter 66 LOUD AND CLEAR

    Chapter 66 LOUD AND CLEAR


    ¡°Hi, Ellie. Amelia called me and she wants me to take her to the mansion.¡± Karma exined when I was the one who opened the door for her.


    I just nodded and I open the door widely for her toe in


    I showed her to the twins'' room. I saw both of them sitting on their respective bed. But Amelia has a bag with her, locking determined to leave me.


    I controlled my tears from falling. I know I messed up big time. I guess they are better to stay in Escarrer mansion than be with me. I was still


    mourning for my parents


    I was not able to mourn for them before because things happened so quickly that I find it hard to absorb everything.


    I was in denial for years. I don¡¯t want to ept the reality. I pretended that everything is alright and nothing has changed. I took over thepany as


    soon as the funeral was over.


    I took as many workloads as I could so that when I went home I don''t have time to think of anything and just sleepProperty of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    I have been doing that for many years until one day my desire to have a family came into my mind that leads to my encounter with Ulie. And the rest


    is history.


    When Ulie confessed to me what really happened, the pain that I tried so hard to hide got exposed. And I was not able to control it.


    The pain and betrayal consumed me


    ¡°Alistair, are you sure you want to stay here?


    I was back from reality when I heard Ka''s question to Alistair.


    ¡°You will stay here?¡± I asked Alistair a bit confused.


    Alistair gave an assuring smile. "I already told you, mom, that you will always have my back. I will never leave you. I will always stay with you.¡±


    The tears that I was trying hard to control flow. I went to Alistair and hug him. ¡°Thank you for staying my son.¡±


    Then I heard Ka''s cough. I look in their direction. I saw Amelia looking at me.


    ¡°Do you still want to go with me?¡± Ka asked Amelia.


    Amelia still looks at me as if she was waiting for something.


    I honestly want to stop her but I know she misses his dad so much. Even if I hate Ulie to death, I still want him to be a father to my children. That is


    the reason why I don''t want the kids to know the exact reason for our breakup.


    I wanted to protect his image not for him but for my children.


    Amelia sighed and turn his look to her Auntie Ka. ¡°I want to be with dad.¡± She said.


    Ka pat her head and nodded. ¡°If that''s what you want.¡±


    Ka took her bag and went to me. ¡°We will go now. Ellie, I want you to know that you are always wee in the mansion. You can visit Amelia


    anytime.


    I just nodded at her and didn''t give any answer.


    I feel awkward talking to them. I don¡¯t know if I should be mad at them or not. I know that they know nothing about my parent''s involvement with Ulie.


    But maybe I was a bit angry by the fact that they chose to keep the truth to Ulie.


    I can''t me them for wanting their son to live a normal life. But what about me? What about my parents?


    I don¡¯t know exactly what I want Ulie to do. I don''t know if I want him in jail or what. My mind is still in chaos. All I Know right now is that I am angry at


    him


    ¡°I think Amelia is waiting for you to stop her,¡± Alistair said after Ka and Amelia left.


    ¡°You think so?¡± I asked.


    Alistair nodded. ¡°I¡¯m sure. She¡¯s my twin. I know exactly how she thinks.¡±


    ¡°But I feel like she should be with your dad. I am afraid that if she stays with me, she might hate me more.¡± I told him.


    Alistair is more mature than Amelia. I understand why Ulie chose to exin things only to Alistair. The reason why I chose to let Amelia be with her


    father. Ulie can handle her well


    The next day Ulie and I were in the headline again. I was not surprised though. I already expected this to happen.


    The headline is about our rumored breakup. I hire a bodyguard for Alistair because for sure the media will flock on them. And I don¡¯t want my children


    to deal with them.


    I instructed the bodyguard before I drive them to school.


    ¡°Alistair protect your sister okay?¡± I said when he was about to get out of the car.


    ¡°Don''t worry mom. I got this. You should be careful too. Media will surely be at your office all day. Don''t eat outside. Just order your food and have


    them send in your office.¡±


    I chuckled as I listen to his instruction.


    ¡°Mom, I¡¯m serious,¡± Alistair said while pouting his lips.


    ¡°I know son. Don''t worry, I can handle them well.¡± I said to assure him.


    And just like waat we expected, the


    media we esiocking on my office


    building. make sure that I drive a-


    diffe ent¡®ear. Since we have been


    the li relight i in the previous years, I


    decided to buy a car that wilttbe


    used for situations like thisContent


    b¨¦longs  ?


    Since the car is tinted, the media didn¡¯t bother my car since they are expecting another car.


    ¡°Wow! You were to avoid them this easy.¡± Luna eximed.


    ¡®I was expecting this to happen. Especially that Hadley was there during Ulie''s confession about the ident.


    ¡°What? So she is the one who spilled this news to the media again?!¡± Luna hissed.


    I shrugged. ¡°I''m not sure. But whether Hadley spill it or not, for sure media will find out about this sooner orter.¡±


    ¡°You have a point.¡±


    I spend my time as usual. I busied myself to work.


    It was my afternoon break when Hadley barges into my office.


    ¡°Hey, I told you that Ms. Cabello is busy. And you don''t have a meeting scheduled with her!¡± Luna said trying to stop Hadley from entering my office.


    ¡°It''s okay Luna. You can leave us.


    ¡°Are you serious with what you told me in the hospital?¡± Hadley asked as soon as she saw Luna go out of my office


    I tried to remember what I told her at that time.


    ¡°You told me that Kade is all mine now,¡± Hadley said when she saw me trying to remember that night.


    I just sighed and look at her. ¡°I don''t care about him anymore. You can have him as much as you want just stay away from me. I don¡¯t want to have


    any connections with him anymore.¡±


    Except for the kids. I wanted to add but I chose not to say it


    ¡°I will be d to help you with that. Since Kade is mine now, I will help you in return.¡± Hadley said look so dreamy.


    Does she love Ulie that much?


    I rolled my eyes. ¡°No thank you. Just staying away from me will be more than enough. Don¡¯t bother yourself.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure? Because I can surely help you with what you want.¡±


    I creased my forehead. ¡°What do you mean?


    ¡°You told me about the sole custody that you want before. You don''t remember it?¡±


    ¡°Of course I remember it. It was my real n, to begin with.¡± I told her.


    ¡°Exactly your real n! We can still make it happen. With my help, you can finally have sole custody with your children.¡±


    I shook my head. ¡°I don¡¯t know what


    is running inthe mind yours but I¡¯m


    afraid to break your fantasy but


    what yotLare thinking now is SS


    impossible to happen. The Escarrer


    family will never allow it to happen,


    netyust Ulie. And I can¡¯ wirvagainst


    th¨¦m.¡±  ta


    ¡°Maybe. But if I got pregnant with Kade¡¯s child then that is a different story.¡± Hadley confidently said.


    My heart wanted to protest about what I just heard. But I reminded myself that Ulie and I are impossible to happen. I should expect this possibility


    now that I broke up with him.


    ¡°What can you say?¡± Hadley said with much excitement.


    ¡°How will you be able to do that? You will have a one night with Ulie like what I did?¡± I said while chuckling.


    ¡°Of course not! That was so cheap. Oppps! I¡¯m sorry. But that was really a cheap move.¡± Then she smirked


    I rolled my eyes. As if what you did to chase Ulie is not cheap.


    ¡°Anyway, the n is to offer them to proceed with our supposed wedding since there is zero chance of you guys getting back together.¡± She started


    sharing his n.


    ¡°Then after our wedding, Kade and I


    will soon hav¨¦.our baby. And when


    that happens I will ask him to give ..


    you solecustody of your twins. Ulie


    doesn¡¯ ¡®tneed you, children, after


    giv ing-Birth to our child. And L.will


    remitid him of what he did to-you


    and surely he will agree ofemy


    request.¡± She said looking so evil.


    ¡°That''s it! Everybody is happy, right? Ulie and I will happily build our own family together while you will have the twins for yourself.


    I was about to answer her ridiculous n when the door opened.


    ¡°Is what that woman said true, mom? You want dad to marry that woman and have a family with her so that you could have me and Alistair for


    yourself?!"


    ¡°Amelia that''s not true. Let me exin.


    ¡°What''s there to exin about? We heard about your n with her loud and clear! You are so selfish, mom! I hate you!

 Chapter 67 ALL YOUR FAULT

    Chapter 67 ALL YOUR FAULT


    ¡°What''s there to exin about? We heard about your n with her loud and clear! You are so selfish, mom! I hate you!¡± Amelia shouted then she


    went out of my office.


    I red at Hadley.


    She covers her mouth. ¡°Oppps, I''m sorry! But don¡¯t worry everything will be alright after I execute my n. Bye!¡± Then she went out of my office as if


    she won a lottery.


    I felt so weak. My daughter hates me more now. But what is she doing here?


    I was about to go to Luna and ask her why Amelia was in my office when I saw Alistair looking at me.


    I went to him and hold his hand. ¡°Alistair I will exin.


    Alistair nodded which gave me a huge relief.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    ¡°Before that, we need to find your sister,¡± I told him then we both went out and look for Amelia.


    One of my employees told us that they saw Amelia going down the elevator. When we reach the lobby, one of the guards told us that Amelia already


    left.


    Just a second after the guard informed me about Amelia, my phone receives a call from the bodyguard I assigned the twin


    ¡°Ernesto, are you with my daughter?¡± I asked worriedly.


    ¡°Yes ma''am. She asked us to send her to the Escarrer mansion. We have no choice but to follow her because she was crying really hard. She might


    run away if we don''t follow her request.¡± The bodyguard exined.


    I heave a sigh of relief. ¡°You don¡¯t need to apologize. I understand. Please make sure that she will reach home safe and sound. Update if anything


    happens.


    ¡°Copy on that ma¡¯am but what about sir Alistair?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Don''t worry about him, he is with me. Just keep an eye on my daughter.¡± I told him.


    After I end the call I look at Alistair and invite him for a snack. We went to the cafe inside the building. I instructed the guard not to let any reporters in.


    When we have our orders, I look at Alistair and started to speak.


    ¡°Alistair, you are aware that when I had you and Amelia. your dad and I doesn''t have a romantic rtionship right?¡± I asked.


    Alistair stops eating his cake and looks at me. ¡°Yes. Dad was only living in the penthouse because of me and Amelia.¡±


    I nodded. ¡°But you learned in school that a normal family is consists of husband, wife, and children right?¡±


    He nodded again. ¡°Yes, mom. I know that our setup is different from a normal family.¡±


    Hearing it from Alistair I am not sure if I should be happy that he understands well the situation or not. Knowing that what you have is different from


    others might be difficult for him.


    Again, my selfishness ps me.


    ¡°Yes, and it''s mommy¡¯s fault why we are in this situation. I was so lonely living alone because your grandparents left me so early. I wanted to have a


    family that I can be with.¡± I started my speech.


    ¡°Because of my selfishness of having a family, I made a n. I wanted to have a family by having a baby. And it was your dad who helps to fulfill that


    n.¡±


    ¡°When I found out that I was pregnant, I nned to take care of you and Amelia alone. Because all I want is a baby or babies. But your dad found out


    and the rest is history.¡±


    ¡°Your dad was originally engaged to Hadley. Thedy you saw a while ago. But they are not in a rtionship. They are just arranged by their parents.


    Do you understand what I am saying?¡± I asked because, for me, this information is too much for him.


    ¡°Yes mom, continue,¡± Alistair said with a bit of cockiness in his tone


    I chuckled at his act. ¡°Your dad decided to cancel his wedding engagement with Hadley. He wanted to take responsibility for us but I refuse to marry


    him because I don''t want him to force himself to marry just because we had you and Amelia.¡±


    ¡°But daddy loves you mom.¡± Alistair butted in


    ¡°We don''t know our feelings for each other at that time. Yearster, I met Hadley and was confronted with what happened. I told her about my initial


    n which was to have you and Amelia by myself. But that was before your dad found out about my pregnancy.¡±


    ¡°And even if, your dad and I are over, I will never take you away from your dad. Once selfishness is enough. I don''t want you to suffer anymore


    because of my selfishness.¡± I said then I took Alistair''s hand and squeeze it.


    ¡°But why is the girl came up with a delusional n?¡± Alistair asked.


    Iughed at his remark. Hadley''s n is indeed delusional. I just shrugged. ¡°Beat me.¡±


    Now that the misunderstanding with my son had been fixed. I need to focus now on how to reconcile with my daughter, Amelia


    I know that right now she hates me so much. And it hurts my heart knowing that.


    My work has been done. Alistair chose to stay in my office and do his homework while waiting for me to finish with my work.


    I went to the sofa where Alistair was. He was done with his assignment and he is now ying with his iPad.


    ¡°You are done now, mom?¡± Alistair asked when he saw me seated beside him.


    I nodded and caress his hair. ¡°Alistair, what do I need to do for your sister to forgive me?¡±


    ¡°I think a box of donuts will do the work.¡± Alistair suggested.


    ¡°Do you think saw?¡±


    Alistair nodded confidently. ¡°Trust me, mom, donuts are her weakness.


    I chuckled and asked him toe with me to buy donuts for her sister.


    I send a text message to Ka telling her that I will drop by at their mansion to talk to my daughter. She said okay.


    We went first to Amelia¡¯s favorite donut shop and bought 1 dozen donuts. I hope this bribe will work.


    My heart suddenly beat fast when


    we finally reached the mansion.


    Before, I treat this ce as my


    second-h Heme since I consider the


    Escarrer family as my own. Butn now,


    it fel''So weird. Suddenly I became


    scared to enter this ce Content


    ?


    N


    x


    ¡°Mom, let''s go?¡±


    nodded ai my son. He holds my_


    hand as we went inside the a


    mansigi: My heart


    am having a hard ti


    den''t want him to


    feels so heavy.


    me breathing. I


    did Rhy best not to show it ta-Alistair.


    WOITY. .


    b¨¦longs  ~


    I feel like my heart stops beating when I saw Ulieing down the stairs looking at me and Alistair.


    I stop from walking and stared at him. He doesn¡¯t look good. He loses so much weight. He didn''t even manage to shave. Though. he still looks


    handsome despite looking so haggard


    ¡°Ellie,¡± Ulie greeted me


    ¡°Daddy"¡± Alistair greeted him instead.


    Ulie looks at our son and he smiles at him. ¡°What brings you and your mom here?¡¯


    ¡°Mom and Amelia had a misunderstanding, mom is here to reconcile with her,¡± Alistair exined.


    His son was talking to him but his eyes are on me. I did my best to avoid his stares.


    ¡°How are you, Ellie?¡± Ulie asked while looking at me intently.


    I have no n on answering him but my son keeps on dodging me. I sighed and look at him.


    m still mourning.


    I only said.


    Ulie finally averted his gaze and he looks guilty now.


    I smirked. Youalready forgot about


    what you dicNo my parents? Is that


    the reason why you are looking So.?


    haggard? Because you are doings


    your best to forget about whatyou


    did tomy parents? That is what


    wart to tell him but I controtmyself


    b¨¦tause our son is here..


    Anger again consumes me. This is why we can never be together again.


    ¡°Can I really entrust Amelia to you?¡± I can¡¯t help but ask.


    Ulie furrowed. ¡°Of course, I can take care of her. Why?¡±


    I shook my head. ¡°How can I believe you when you can¡¯t even take care of yourself?¡± I said then I look at him from head to toe.


    He scratches his head while lowering his eyes. ¡°I may look like this but you can rest assured that Amelia is taking care of.¡±


    I stare at him. ¡°I don''t believe you. I can only believe you when you can well take care of yourself.¡± I said then walked to my daughter''s room.


    I knocked on her room since it was locked.


    ¡°Who is there?¡± I heard Amelia''s voice.


    ¡°It''s me, Amelia.¡± I nervously answered.


    It took a while before Amelia answered. She did not open the door for me. ¡°What are you doing here? Just leave! I don''t want to see you again! I hate


    you!"


    My heart is breaking as I listen to my daughter''s rage. ¡°Please baby, let me exin.¡± I pleaded with her.


    ¡°I heard enough mommy! I will not listen to you anymore! Just leave me here with dad! I hate you so much!¡± Amelia shouted.


    I was crying while listening to her. She really hates me.


    ¡°Let me talk to her. I will exin everything to her. She will realize her mistake and she will eventually go to you and ask for forgiveness.¡±


    It was Ulie who said those words. I turned to him and red at him. He looks worried when he saw my tears.


    ¡°Are you okay, Ellie?¡± He asked worriedly.


    I rolled my eyes. ¡°What kind of stupid question is that? Of course, I¡¯m not fine. My daughter hates me now. It''s all your fault.¡±

 Chapter 68 AMELIA KNOWS THE TRUTH

    Chapter 68 AMELIA KNOWS THE TRUTH


    ¡°What kind of stupid question is that? Of course, I¡¯m not fine. My daughter hates me now. It¡¯s all your fault.¡±


    Ellie hates me and I can''t me her. It was my mistake who took away the lives of the people close to her... Ellie¡¯s only family.


    Because of me, Ellie became an orphan. She needs to take on difficulties and responsibilities at an early age. I am proud of how strong she became


    but I am also mad at myself because she could have avoided this kind of loneliness and hardship if it wasn¡¯t for me.


    I keep on questioning myself why did I do that?! Why did I try to beat the red light?! I should have waited! I was able to wait for her for five years, but


    why can''t I wait for a minute or two?


    If I stop and wait for the green signal then her parents will be able to attend their only daughter¡¯s graduation and still be alive until now.


    I wish I could turn back the time but I know I can¡¯t. All I can do right now is to support Ellie and help her as much as I could. I will no longer dream of


    having her in my life because I don''t deserve her. I will only remind her of her parent''s idental death. And I know that she will never ept me


    anymore.


    When Ellie left the mansion, she was so emotional. She even asked our son to stay in the mansion andfort her sister.


    I got worried because of her emotional state. I followed her. I want to be sure that she will be home safe.


    But I furrowed when I noticed that the way she was headed was not on the way to her home. I just shrugged and continue to follow her.


    When I got familiar with the ce, I already got an idea of where she nned to go. She will go visit her parents in their mausoleum


    When her car stop, I park my car somewhere near their mausoleum. I saw her crying while entering the ce. Her eyes are already swollen from


    crying. I was thankful that she was able to drive despite her state.


    I don¡¯t know what came to me, I just found myself getting inside the mausoleum. I am familiar with the design of this ce. It looks like one of


    Cabello¡¯s mansions. I am sure that Ellie was the one who designs this.


    This is her way of making her parents feel at home in this ce. She loves her parents that much. Again guilt consumed me


    I continued to walk until I saw Ellie lying down on her mom''s grave. I can hear her sobbing


    ¡°Mom,¡± Ellie''s voice broke.


    I did my best not to create any sound. I know she will push me away if she will saw me now.


    ¡°My daughter hates me. She doesn''t want to listen to my exnation. She thought that I take them away from their father. I should have made Hadley


    shut up and drive her away instead of listening to her delusion.¡±


    My forehead creased. Hadley was the reason again?! When can that woman step her schemes?! I can''t take that anymore. She was making the


    situation more difficult for Ellie.


    ¡°Mom, Dad, I should have not nned to have a baby, nor a family. My children are suffering because of my selfishness. Being hated by my daughter


    is the worst feeling. I don''t know if she will still give me a chance to exin myself to her.¡±


    ¡°But mom, dad, I can''t say that I regret having them. Because Alistair and Ameliapleted me when I feel so broken because I lost the both of you. I


    keep on telling myself to stop being selfish but my children are the best thing that happened to me. And I can¡¯t regret that.¡±


    ¡°Mom, Dad, please help me to reconcile with them. Help me to be a good mother to them.¡±


    I just kept on listening to all Ellie¡¯s rants to her parents. It pains me to see her suffering like this. And I know it''s all my fault. My past mistakes lead us


    to this suffering.


    When I noticed that Ellie was already asleep, I carried her and brought her to the room upstairs so she can sleep well


    ¡°Sleep well, my love. I promise you, that I will do everything to lessen your pain. I will get rid of the people who keep bugging you and I will help you


    reconcile with your daughter. I will do everything for you, my love. I love you so much.¡±


    After I settled Ellie in the room, I went out of the mausoleum and went straight to Adelson''s mansion.


    I know it¡¯s alreadyte but I don''t have more time left. I need to get rid of her now.


    Hadley didn¡¯t have a second thought about having me in their mansion. She was already in bed when the maid informed her about my sudden visit.


    ¡°What brings you here Kade?¡± Hadley asked with excitement


    I look at her coldly. ¡°When will you stop your scheme?¡± I asked in a menacing voice.


    Hadley looks confused for a moment. ¡°What are you saying? I cant understand you.


    ¡°You went to Ellie''s office. And because of that my child and Ellie have a misunderstanding. Am I right?¡± I asked her directly.


    ¡°Oh, so that girl already told you about it. I thought she hates you? It looks like she just acting like that to gain more of your sympathy.¡±


    Hadley¡¯s statement made my head boil from anger. I grab her arms hardly.


    ¡°Ouch! Kade, you are hurting me!¡± Hadley said while her eyes widen.


    ¡°My tolerance in all your schemes has a limitation. And you exceeded it now! Stop messing with my family especially Ellie and my children!¡± I warned


    her.


    ¡°Ellie is not your family! She hates you! She will never ept you!¡±


    I smirked. ¡°She may hate me but my love for her will never change. No matter what you do, or even if you showed me your naked body and seduced


    me, I will never love you or even lust you because you disgust me!


    Hadley¡¯s eyes welled up. I was so angry at her that I don''t care if she cries to me right now.


    ¡°Why can¡¯t you love me? She hates you! She doesn''t love you anymore! Why can¡¯t you just learn to love?! Why?!" Hadley started to sob.


    ¡°Stop crying you disgust me more,¡± I said in a cold voice


    ¡°I will not stop no matter how many times you pleaded. I love you Kade and I will do everything just to have you.¡± Hadley said full of determination.


    I gave her a deadly stare. ¡°Should I kill you then? Tell me. Should I? Because if that is the only way for you to stop then I will do it. I will kill you right


    now.¡± I said in my coldest voice.


    Hadley flinched and became pale. I smirked then I removed my hold from her arms.


    I stand up and I¡¯m about to leave when I thought of giving her thest warning


    ¡®If I heard that you did something again to Ellie or my kids, even if I''m dead, I will ask someone to go kill you. Remember that.¡± Then I walked out of


    her mansion


    When I reached home, I went straight to my children''s room. I wanted to talk to Amelia as scon as she woke up. It was almost five in the morning, she


    will wake up anything soon


    I waited for thirty minutes and Amelia finally woke up. Amelia rubs her eyes and looks at me with her sleepy eyes.


    ¡°Dad?¡±


    I smile at her. ¡°Can I talk to you?¡± I said in a whisper.


    She nodded at me and I asked her to talk outside so that we can¡¯t wake up her twin brother.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°What do you want to talk about? Did you even get to sleep?¡± My daughter worriedly asked me.


    That put a genuine smile on my face. My sweet Amelia as ever.


    ¡®I can''t find myself to sleep after I found out about your fight with your mom,¡± I said to start with my exnation.


    I saw Amelia''s face change. She looks angry now. ¡°Mom is so selfish! She wants me and Alistair to take away from you.¡±


    I shake my head. ¡°Your mom will never do that,¡± I said to assure her.


    ¡°But I heard her and that girl!¡± She insisted.


    I touch her hair and caressed it.


    "Believe me, honey. What you heard


    is not the entire truth. If your mom


    wanted totake you away from me,>


    she doesn''t need Hadley to help Ker


    with that. She knew that I am willing


    to give everything that will make her


    happy, and also because [did


    something unforgiving techer. I


    deserve all the hate from her.¡± I


    exined to Amelia.


    Amelia''s eyes widen. ¡°What did you do to mom?¡± Now she sounded so worried and concerned for her mother.


    I smiled to myself. I would rather my children hate me that her mother. Ellie deserved love and not hate.


    ¡°Because of me, she lost someone


    special to herMt is my fault that she


    suffered a lot But you know what?


    Despite finding out the truth, she did


    not deprive me of the right to bea


    fathecto you and Alistair. She knew


    thatfshe asked me to give trer sole


    custody of you and A istair, Y will give


    it fo her without question-but she


    never did. Because she loves you


    and your brother so much.¡±


    ¡°If there is someone you must hate, it should be me and not your mom. I¡¯m the one who''s at fault in all of this. I was the one who hurt your mom, the


    reason for her suffering for years.¡±


    My daughter went to me and wipe the tears that I did not notice falling in my eyes.


    "Stop crying dad. I don''t know what


    you did to beso willing to receive


    mom''s hatred, but I''m sure that you,


    don''t meaii that to happen. You love


    mom se-much. You will never do


    thing$+to intentionally hurt her..1


    know you dad. I know how.mauch


    yeu love mom. I know how-much


    you love us. I love you, dad!¡±

 Chapter 69 DREAM

    Chapter 69 DREAM


    I was so devastated after my daughter pushed me away. I talked to my son and asked him to stay with her sister tonight. I know that Amelia needed


    her brother right now. Even though Amelia bullies her twin brother most of the time, Alistair is still her confidant.


    I am nning to go to my parent''s mausoleum tonight. I needed to see them with all the things happening now.


    This is what I always do whenever I feel down and lonely. Just being with my parentsforts me, especially when I start praying to God with them. It


    is just like when they are still alive, we pray and worship God together.


    It''s a good thing that I made this mausoleum exactly like our home, especially in times like this. I can stay here for as long as I want.


    When I went inside and saw my parent''s grave. tears start to fall again. Losing them only seems like yesterday.


    ¡°Mom,¡± My voice broke


    ¡°My daughter hates me. She doesn''t want to listen to my exnation. She thought that I will take them away from their father. I should have made


    Hadley shut up and drive her away instead of listening to her delusion.¡± I told them.


    I really wish you are still here with me, I need a hug from you guys.


    ¡°Mom, Dad, I made a big mistake. I knew that my n was crazy and not pleasing to God but I continued anyway. I only think of myself and my


    happiness. I did not consider my children. My children are the one who is suffering because of my selfishness. And now, being hated by my daughter


    is the worst feeling. I don''t know if she will still give me a chance to exin myself to her. I am dying just thinking about my daughter hating me.¡±


    I am starting to hate myself now for being so selfish in the past. My children are innocent they don''t deserve to be hurt. But now they are hurting


    because of me.


    ¡°But mom, dad, I can''t say that I regret having them in my life. Alistair and Ameliapleted me when I feel so broken because I lost both of you. I


    keep on telling myself to stop being selfish but my children are the best thing that happened to me. And I don''t regret that.¡± I added.


    ¡°Mom, Dad, please pray with me as I pray to God to help me to reconcile with my daughter. And help me to be a good mother to them.¡± I said then I


    start praying to God.


    I let myself cry like there is no tomorrow. I want to give myself this time to cry because I need to fix myself for my children. I can¡¯t be like this forever. I


    need to move on. My children need me.


    I need to finish my mourning and start to be a mother again to my children. After this, I will make sure that I will win my daughter back.


    I fell asleep but I was suddenly awake but a bit groggy because I felt like someone is carrying me. I don''t know if it''s real or not. Maybe I was just


    dreaming. And then I hear a voice after that person put me down to bed.


    ¡°Sleep well, my love. I promise you, that I will do everything to lessen your pain. I will get rid of the people who keep bugging you and I will help you to


    reconcile with our daughter. I will do everything for you. my love. I love you so much.¡± The voice said.


    What this person said just gave me so muchfort. It was exactly what I needed... I needed someone to assure me that everything will be alright


    and that I am not alone in this.


    When I woke up, I was hearingughter outside. I look at the surroundings and my forehead creased.


    I know this ce. Why am I here? I remember that I fell asleep at my parent''s grave. Why am I here? Why am I in my former room in our mansion?


    I was still lost but I manage to walk outside my reom. I wanted to know who owned the voice andughter that I am hearing right now because it


    sounds so familiar.


    Then I saw my parents, my tears fell. They were happy doing what we love to do.


    Eating in our garden while mom and dad prepared the barbeque.


    ¡°Mom, dad!" I called them.


    They turn their head on me and smile


    ¡°Our baby.¡± They both said


    I went to them and hug them real tight. I long for this moment to happen and it¡¯s finally happening. I can¡¯t believe it.


    ¡°Why are you crying, my love?¡± My mom asked me while caressing my face.


    ¡°I miss you so much, mom, dad!¡± I said while crying


    Thank you, Lord. Thank you for this.


    ¡°We miss you too so much baby.¡± My mom said while wiping my tears.


    I hug them again, savoring this moment. I keep on telling them how much I love and miss them


    My dad invites us to eat. We ate in the garden just like we used to do. I miss this. I miss having a meal with them. I was eating while crying, while my


    mom and dad were smiling at me.


    We were on our usual spot in the garden. I was still hugging them. I was afraid that this will be gone any moment.


    ¡°I am sure that this is just a dream. If it''s possible, I don''t want to wake up anymore. I just want to be with them, Lord.¡± I whispered


    My mom breaks from my hug and turns her face toward me.


    ¡°Baby, don''t say that again. As much as we want to be with you like this forever, you need to go back. Your children and especially Ulie needs you.¡±


    My mom gently said.


    I furrowed. ¡°I Know mom and dad that my children need me. But why did you also include that guy?! He was the one who killed you!¡±


    ¡°Ulie has nothing to do with what happened to us. It was an ident.¡± My dad said


    ¡°But he was the one who caused it! If it wasn''t for him, there will be no ident!¡± I hissed.


    ¡°Baby, listen to us. Stop ming Ulie for the ident. He never wanted it to happen. He suffered enough. You need to help him to let go of the guilt


    that he was carrying for years.¡± My mom said.


    ¡°But because of him, I lost you,¡± I said and cried hard.


    ¡°And it was also because of him that you have your children right now.¡± My mom said.


    I was taken aback. They are right. If I did not meet Ulie that night, I don¡¯t think that I can do a one-night stand with another guy that night. I mean


    many guys approached me and I like none of them.


    ¡°Ellie, everything happens for a reason. You lost us, your only family but you also gain a new family. It was already our time. We need to respect that.¡±


    My dad said.


    My tears began to fall again. That is one thing that I can¡¯t ept... That it was their time already that is why they''re not with me anymore.


    "Please, baby stop ming Ulie. We


    witness how rauch he loves you and


    how much he waited for the perfect


    time to wig you back. Ulie respected


    what weequested from him. It was


    not easy on his part. He keeps ? on


    asking us for an update aboutyou.


    He-was scared that youm ight fall


    fo? someone else, but he Still waited


    until you graduate. He respects what


    we want for you.¡± My mom


    exined.


    Ulie told me about this already. They did have an agreement. And all of it was for my well-being.


    ¡°You need to let us go now, Ellie. You need to move forward with your life not only for yourself but especially for your family. They need you, especially


    now that Ulie remembered everything. You have no idea how difficult it is for him right now.¡± My dad said.


    I shake my head. ¡°I don¡¯t want to let you go, mom, dad! I want to be with you.


    My parents shook their heads. They both hold my hand.


    ¡°Our time is dane here on earth, but


    yours is not Let us go and be happy


    with yoursew family. Live a happy


    life with them. That is our greatest


    dream Yor you now. We are welf my


    childsYou don''t need to think-about


    usztet us go.¡± My dad sain his


    sWeetest and most caring voice.


    I slowly nodded my head. I need to stop my selfishness and let them go.


    ¡°Okay, mom, dad.¡± I just said while sobbing.


    They both hug me. ¡°Forgive Ulie and tell him that we never me him for what happened. And we thank him for loving you since then until now. Even


    though he lost his memories of you, he was still able to find you and be with you.¡± My mom whispered.


    I look at both of them.


    ¡°Ellie, stop ming Ulie about what happened to us and stop ming yourself for loving him. You guys are meant for each other. Don''t let our


    ident hinders you from your happily ever after.¡±


    That was thest message I got from my parents after I woke up from a great dream. I touch my face and I can feel the fresh tears that came from my


    eyes.


    The dream looks and feels so real. I look up and thank God for the great opportunity of being with my parents even if it''s just a dream


    Thank you, Jesus.


    I feel so peaceful right now. And I know I am ready to face my family and reconcile with them. I finally let go of the guilt of loving Ulie.Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Ulie and I are meant for each other. It already came from my parents, they never me him and they are rooting Ulie for me. What more can I ask


    for?


    I went to my parent''s grave again, this time with a smile on my face.


    ¡°I will fix this mom, dad. I promise you both that I will win my family back.¡± I said and touch each of their tombs.


    I feel light and happy while I was on my way to my penthouse. I wanted to take a bath and change before I go to the Escarrer mansion and get all of


    them back to our home.


    I miss them so much.


    When I opened the door of my penthouse, my eyes widen as I see my twins ying in the living room.


    ¡°Amelia? Alistair?¡± I called them.


    They both look at me with happiness in their eyes.


    ¡°Mommy!¡± They both greeted me and hugged me.


    ¡°We miss you, mommy!¡± They both said.


    The tears fell again in my eyes. But this time, it was tears of joy. My children miss me. I look at Amelia. She''s smiling sweetly at me. My daughter is


    not mad at me anymore! Thank you, Lord! I am not doing anything yet. but you my daughter already forgiven me.


    ¡°I miss you guys too!¡± I said and hugged them tightly.


    ¡°What about daddy?¡± Amelia asked looking hopeful that I will give her the answer that she wanted.


    I smile at her and pinched her cheek. She pouted and I justughed.


    Don''t worry baby, you will hear the answer that you want to hear from me.


    ¡°I miss him too.¡± I honestly told them.


    They both screamed and giggle. Iughed at their reaction.


    ¡®I''m a sorry mommy for what I tald you these past few days. I didn¡¯t mean it. I was just so sad because you guys separated.¡± Amelia said in a whisper.


    I kissed her and pinched her on the cheek. ¡°You don''t need to apologize to me, it was me who should apologize. Can you forgive mommy?¡± I asked.


    She nodded. ¡°Dad exins everything to me. It was his fault why you are mad at him right now.¡±


    I shake my head. ¡°No, honey. It was not your dad¡¯s fault. It was nobody''s fault. I want to apologize to your dad for ming everything on him well in


    fact, it was not his fault.¡±


    ¡®It was an ident. No one wants it


    to happen. It was my parent''s time


    to be with our Creator. just can''t ~


    ept itand choose to me =


    everything on your dad but it was


    not iS" fault. I want to talk to-your


    dac-now and ask for his


    fSPgiveness.¡± I exinedfo them.


    ¡®I''m sure dad will forgive you, mom. He loves you so much!¡± My children said then they gave me another warm hug. I feel so happy and contented


    right now. I just need to talk and reconcile with Ulie. Then it will beplete happiness.


    We were about to go to the Escarrer mansion when my phone rang.


    It was Ka.


    ¡°Ka-¡±


    I was not able to finish talking because Ka starts talking.


    ¡°Ellie, my brothermitted suicide.¡±

 Chapter 70 PROPOSAL

    Chapter 70 PROPOSAL


    ¡°Ellie, my brothermitted suicide.¡±


    ¡°W-what?!


    Ka didn¡¯t say anything. She just kept on crying. My heart was beating so fast


    ¡°Ka please tell me you are kidding. Ulie did what?¡± I said a bit shaking.


    But again Ka did not answer and just kept on crying. My children started to ask me what happened because my tears are flowing again.


    I took a deep breath. I need to gather myself together because my children are with me. I can¡¯t tell them about what happened


    I shake my head and smiled at them. ¡°Nothing. Your Aunt Ka just wanted me to see your dad.


    They just nodded but I know that they are not convinced by my answer.


    We went straight to the hospital. I called Luna and asked her to go to the hospital because I needed her to take care of my children.


    When we reached the hospital Luna was already there.


    ¡°I heard what happen. How is he?¡± She said upon seeing me


    ¡°I don¡¯t know yet. I need to talk to Ka first. Can you get the kids and take care of them?" I asked.


    Luna nodded. ¡°Don''t worry. Just leave the kids to me and go to Ulysses. He needs you. And please find it in your heart to forgive him.¡±


    I just showed her a forced smile and nodded at her. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Then I went to the information booth and ask for Ulie¡¯s room.


    When I reached the VIP room, I saw Ka and Quen outside the room. Ka was crying hard while Quen wasforting her.


    Seeing Ka and Quen made me more nervous. I was silently praying to God to make Ulie safe. I might lose my sanity if I lost Ulie too. I just learn to


    let go of my parents after so many years. And the thought of Ulie and my children as my new family help me to finally let go of my parents.


    Please Lord keep Ulie safe. My children needed their father. I also needed him. Please almighty God saves him


    I did my best to gather myself and walk in their direction. Ka saw me, she runs towards me and hugs me tightly.


    I tap her back to console her. ¡°How is he?¡± I asked


    She broke from the hug and wipe her tears. ¡°He is stable now as per the doctor.¡±


    Hearing that Ulie is now stable made me a bit at ease. I thank the Lord immediately.


    Ka grabs my hand and squeezes it. "Please Ellie, help us. We don¡¯t know what to do anymore. I know it''s hard for you because you lost your


    family, but please help us with my brother. I don¡¯t want to lose him. I can kneel here if that''s what you want.¡± She said sounding so desperate.


    My tears fell again after hearing those things from Ka. They did nothing but good to me. They don''t deserve to be hurt like this.


    ¡°You don''t need to kneel at me, Ka. No one is at fault. It was an ident. And I should be the one apologizing to Ulie and your family because I


    me him and call him names he doesn''t deserve."


    ¡°I was so selfish and only think about myself and my suffering. I did not consider how difficult it is for your brother to carry the guilt that he doesn''t


    deserve. I was about to go and reconcile with him because finally, I realize that I was wrong but I was toote.¡±


    Ka shakes her head. ¡°You are notte. My brother is stable now. You can still reconcile with him and be happy. Thank you, Ellie, for giving him a


    chance. He loves you so much that he wanted to take his life to give you justice.¡± She said while her voice was breaking.


    ¡°But that is not the justice that I want,¡± I told Ka.


    She nodded. ¡°I know.


    When Ka and I settled, I took a deep breath before I decided to go inside Ulie¡¯s room. I saw his parents crying beside him.


    I swallowed hard. I feel nervous, I am not sure if they will still ept me for Ulie. I was the one who causes him pain.


    ¡°Auntie, uncle,¡± I called them


    They both look in my direction. Auntie Adelia went to me and hug me. I can feel the warmth of her hug. I can''t believe that they can still hug me after


    all the pain that I caused their son. I am surely blessed to have the Escarrer family in my life.


    ¡°Thank you foring Ellie. My son needs you right now. You are the only person who can convince him to stop doing this to himself. We are all


    afraid that if he woke up, he might take his life again.¡± Auntie Adelia said while sobbing.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Auntie, I was the one who pushes Ulie to do this. If I did not hate him that much-¡± I was not able to finish what I¡¯m about to say because


    Auntie cut me off already.


    ¡°We understand where your angering from. You lost your parents at an early age. You suffered for many years. We already expected your


    reaction but we believe that someday you will find it in your heart to forgive my son and you will give my son a chance.¡± Auntie Adelia said


    I smiled at Auntie Adelia. I can¡¯t believe that I am hearing this after what happened to Ulie. I look at Uncle Laertes to see his reaction. He just smiles


    and nodded at me.


    I was left alone with Ulie. He was sleeping peacefully. I look down and saw her wrist covered with bandages.


    I touch his hair and caress it. I remember the things that my parents told me about Ulie¡¯s inner struggle.


    ¡°Baby, listen to us. Stop ming Ulie for the ident. He never wanted it to happen. He suffered enough. You need to help him to let go of the guilt


    that he was carrying for years.¡± This was the exact word that my mother told me about Ulie''s inner pain.


    My mom also told me that his mind couldn¡¯t take the pain that he is feeling at that time, the reason why his mind shut his memories about me and the


    ident


    I may have suffered from my parent''s death, but Ulie also suffered from it. The guilt did not leave him even if he lost his memory of the ident.


    He was always anxious whenever we reach any stoplight. I finally know the reason why he was always like that.


    I think Ulie suffered more than me seeing him trying to take his life. Dealing with guilt is hard. And ming him when he was already dealing with his


    guilt made it harder.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡®I''m sorry Ulie for bringing you more pain. I''m sorry for doubling your guilt. I will make it up to you once you wake up. I promise.¡± I whispered to him


    then I kiss his forehead.


    When I was about to move away from his face, I saw Ulie¡¯s eyes open. I startled. I didn''t know what to say to him


    ¡°Ellie?¡± Ulie said then he looks at his surrounding.


    ¡®I failed? I didn''t die?¡± He said to himself.


    A momentter, Ulie started to sob. He looks at me.


    ¡°I''m sorry. I''m sorry, I failed.¡± He keeps on saying those words.


    My heart breaks seeing him crying and apologizing to me because he failed to die. I feel like I''m the worst person in the world


    ¡°What are you saying?¡± I said to him because I can''t take what he just said


    He looks at me, full of tears in his eyes. ¡°I''m sorry because I failed to die. I¡¯m sorry for being alive.¡±


    I couldn¡¯t help myself, I p him a bit hard. I want him to wake up and realize what he is saying to me right now.


    ¡°Are you serious with what you are saying to me now?! How dare you kill yourself!¡± I shouted at him.


    I can''t stop myself from being mad at him ¡°Did you ever think about the kids when you did this?!


    Ulie lowered his head. ¡°It was the only solution that I could think of. If I will die, then you will have sole custody of the kids without them hating you.¡±


    My eye widen. I can¡¯t believe what I am hearing from him. Did I push him this much? Am I that evil?!


    ¡°If you are that guilty, then MARRY ME!¡± I said.


    Ulie still looks so down. I guess he did not absorb my proposal yet.


    ¡°Of course, I should do that- wait! W-what?¡± Ulie reacted when he finally realize what I just said.


    I look at him with coldness in my eyes. "I said if you are that guilty, then marry me.¡±


    "W-why? I thought you hate me.¡± He said a bit lost.


    I sighed and touch his face. ¡°I did. You know how much my parents mean to me right?


    Ulie nodded looking so guilty.


    I smile at him. ¡°When I learned about the ident, the only thing that came to my mind was to me you. For so many years, I''ve been looking for


    something to me for my parent''s death. I was not able to mourn properly before.¡±


    ¡°And now that I found someone to


    me, then I finally allow myself to


    moum for them. I me everything


    on you and even called you a >


    murderet. I''m so sorry Ulie. I''m sarry


    becaus@''! doubled the guilt that you


    are carrying for years. I now Fealize


    that-what I did to you was wrong


    afd evil. You didn''t deserve to hear


    those words from me. It is not your


    fault¡± I told him while my tears keep


    on flowing.


    Ulie holds my-hand that touches his


    face and caresses it. ¡°Your feelings


    are valid. kam at fault. I was the one


    who caused the ident. I was the


    reasomwhy you lost your parents.


    wasthe one who caused yowso


    nah pain. I was the murdever.¡±


    My heart is breaking with every word I heard from him. I shook my head.


    ¡°You are not a murderer. It was no one¡¯s fault. It was an ident. And you never want that to happen.¡± I made that clear to him.


    ¡°But I was the one who caused the ident.¡± Ulie keeps on insisting on himself.


    I red at him. ¡°I said stop ming yourself! It was not your fault. It was meant to happen because my parent''s time is already up.¡±


    I finally said it. For many years I can¡¯t ept the fact that they left this world this early. But now I finally ept it. I finally learn to ept and let them


    go. I¡¯m sure they are proud of me now.


    I looked at Ulie again who was still absorbing everything that I told him.


    ¡°I dreamed of my parentsst night.¡± I confessed.


    Just like what my parents told me, I should tell Ulie about the things that they told me.


    Ulie didn''t utter any word. He just looks at me and waited for me to continue.


    ¡°We were in our old mansion. We had our barbeque in the garden just like the old times.¡± I can¡¯t help but smile when I remember that dream.


    ¡°They are the ones who made me realize that what happened to them is an ident and I should not me you or anyone for that.¡±


    I held his hand and gently squeeze it. ¡°My parents knew your inner pain and suffering. And they are so worried about you.


    ¡°They did not hate me?¡± Ulie asked a bit surprised.


    I smile and shake my head. ¡°No. As I said, they are very worried about you. They want you to know that they never med you for what happened.


    They knew that it was already their time.¡±


    ¡°Tell him that we never me him


    for what happened. And we thank


    him for loyitng you since then until ~


    now. Ev¨¦o though he lost his = <<


    memoes of you, he was still able to


    find. you and be with you.- This was


    thezexact word of my momfor you.¡±


    It8ld him.


    Ulie¡¯s tears fell. He cried so hard. Butpare to before, he was better now. Maybe these are the things that he needed to hear to finally forgive


    himself for what happened and to move forward.


    Again, I thank God for that dream. The dream that I hadst night is not only for me but also for Ulie. We both needed that dream to be able to let go


    of the past and move forward


    I went to Ulie and console him


    ¡°Thank you, Auntie, Uncle. Thank you.¡± He keeps on saying while hugging me back.


    I break from that hug and I look at his face. ¡°Stop ming yourself. Let go of the guilt now and marry me.¡±

 Epilogue

    Epilogue


    I thought that life is so unfair. I even hated God for letting all of this happen


    I only loved one woman in my life, but why did God allow me to be the reason for her sufferings?


    I hated God so much that I tried to kill myself. I feel like, my mere existence is the cause of the suffering of many people. The suffering of the people I


    love.


    They said when you don''t understand, you just need to trust God


    I failed to do this. I failed to trust Him. One thing God has proved to me was, that he is still in control


    He did not let me die, instead, He gave me what I longed to desire, and that is Ellie. I can''t believe that she asked me to marry her. It felt like a dream.


    I can''t believe that I am here on the altar waiting for her to walk down the aisle.


    Today is our wedding day. Our family and friends were delighted when they found out that Ellie and I will get married. The twins cried with happiness.


    They have been praying for this to happen, day and night.


    I can''t stop my tears from flowing when I saw my children walking with their mother on the aisle. As always, Alistair is wearing the same suit that I


    had, while Amelia is wearing the same wedding dress that Ellie was wearing. excluding the veil. Instead. Amelia is wearing a white flower crown.


    The twins are both holding on to their mother¡¯s wedding dress. I turned my gaze at my wife. Finally, I can call her wife!


    I can see that my wife was controlling her tears to flow but she failed.


    My wife looks at me. I smile and mouthed ¡°I love you" to her. She smiles and mouthed ¡°I love you too.¡±


    As a man, I can¡¯t ept the fact that she was the one who proposed to me. That is why I invite them to go with me to our private ind. I asked my


    children¡¯s help to do a ramantic proposal for Ellie. A wedding proposal that she deserves to experience


    shback


    It was not hard to n because I¡¯ve been wanting to propose to her since we were in college. I only want Ellie to be my wife and the mother of my


    children.


    I hired people to set up a romantic dinner on the beach.


    While I was making sure that everything went well, I asked Amelia and Alistair to spend time with their mother so that she will not have any idea about


    my n to propose to her.


    When everything was ready, I went to our room to check on them. I saw the love of my life sleeping with our children.


    I woke up Alistair and asked him to stay quiet. I told him to go to the other room to get the box I prepared for Ellie.


    Then, I woke up Amelia. I also told her to stay quiet and go to the other room to change their outfit.


    When Alistair arrived carrying the box I asked him to get. I told him the same instruction I told Amelia


    Then I left a card with instructions on the bedside table. Then I ce the box that has the dress and shoes I prepared for Ellie. She needs to wear


    those for tonight''s romantic dinner date sh wedding proposal.


    A momentter, I saw Ellie looking so surprised upon seeing the romantic dinner that I set up for her. She continues to walk on the red carpet with


    rose petals scattered in the ground and candles at both sides of the carpet. I smile at her when she finally met my gaze.


    ¡°What is all this?¡± Ellie asked still looking surprised.


    ¡°A romantic dinner for you, my Quinn,¡± I said then I handed her a bouquet of tulips, her favorite flower.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± She said. then I showed her to her seat.


    ¡°You like it?¡± I asked after I was seated in my seat.


    Ellie was still roaming the ce. ¡°Yes. I love it. But where are the kids?¡± She asked.


    ¡°You will see them in a bit,¡± I assure her.


    When we are both settled, I open the wine and pour it into our wine ss, it also serves as a hint to the twins that they can already serve the food that


    I prepare for tonight.


    A minuteter, I already saw Alistair and Amelia wearing their waiter outfit and carrying our dinner.


    ¡°Mr. Escarrer and Ms. Cabello, here''s your dinner for tonight,¡± Alistair said in a formal tone.


    Ellie chuckles and looks at them. "Oh, it''s you guys again. Can I also hire you as my waiter?¡± She teases them.


    ¡°I''m sorry Ms. Cabello but we are no ordinary waiters,¡± Amelia said


    Ellie acted surprised. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s sad.


    ¡°Don''t be sad Ms. Cabello, you''ll always see us during special asions,¡± Alistair said.


    Ellie''s forehead creased. ¡°What do you mean by special asion?


    I cleared my throat. We saw Amelia pinched her twin brother on his side belly.


    ¡°Special asion like this. Mr. Escarrer prepared a romantic dinner for you. This is already considered a special asion.¡± Amelia tried to exin it


    to Ellie.


    I smiled at my daughter. That was a quick thinking, I couldn''t help but be proud.


    ¡°You two can go now. Thank you for your service.¡± I said to avoid other questions from Ellie. I don¡¯t want my proposal to be busted.


    Good thing Ellie didn''t make it a big deal. Momentster, while we were having our dinner, the fireworks disy I prepared started to fill the sky.


    I smile as I look at Ellie enjoying the disy. I went out of my seat and started to get down on my knees when I saw the customized firework disy


    that says ¡°Will you marry me?¡±N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    Ellie looks at me with a teary-eyed. ¡°I


    know you already proposed to me.


    But still, I wanted to do this for you. I


    have longnned this proposal <


    since wev were in college. When


    finallydecided to pursue you.¡¯


    waited for this moment to happen.


    And finally, I am here in frent of you,


    the only woman I love, ki@eling and


    asking you this important question.¡±


    ¡°Penelope Quinn Cabello, will you marry me?¡± I asked with full sincerity.


    Tears fell in her eyes and she nodded nonstop. ¡°Of course, I will marry you!¡±


    I touch her face and touch her lips. My facees slowly at her and gave her a passionate kiss.


    ¡°Yes!!! Finally!!!


    We look at our back and saw the twins shouting those words. We bothughed and call them toe to us


    I''m happy that finally I will marry the woman I only love, but I¡¯m happier for my kids. It was also their dream for their mom to have the same surname


    with them.


    End of shback


    The wedding ceremony happened so fast. And now it''s our time to give our vow to one another.


    ¡°Ulie, we''ve gone through so much, to the point that we thought that it¡¯s already impossible for us to be together. But just like what other people say, if


    it''s meant to be. it will be.¡± My wife started her vow.


    I nodded and smile at her. You are indeed meant for me. I can''t imagine myself with someone else other than you


    ¡°I want to thank you for loving and choosing me. Up until now, I can¡¯t understand why you love me this much. Many girls are chasing after you. Some


    of them are more beautiful and have better credentials than me.¡± She added


    ¡®I beg to disagree my love.¡± I can''t help but whisper.


    My wife just smile at me and continued with her vow. ¡°In the past, I felt like I was not able to show to you how much I love you. But this time, I promise


    to love you without reservation. So you better get ready.¡±


    Peopleugh at my wife¡¯s statement. I want to tell her I am always ready for her and I can¡¯t wait for it to happen.


    ¡°I promise to always listen to you, to trust you, and be by your side no matter what happens. I will never leave you and I will always fight for you. I love


    you, my husband.¡±


    I felt the tears fall from my eyes. I love this girl so much.


    I went to her and kissed her forehead. And now it''s my turn to share my vow.


    ¡°Indeed, my Quinn. We''ve gone through so much and we learned so much from all those things. I thank God for your life. I thank God that He chose


    me to be with you.¡±


    ¡°I love you so much. I can''t think of anyone better than you because for me you are perfect. you are perfect for me.¡± I said with full sincerity.


    ¡°I promise to be stronger for our family. I promise that no matter what happens, I will never leave you. I will not let you face the world alone. I love you


    my wife.¡±


    ¡°Mother, Penelope Quinn C. Escarrer! Finally, mommy, you have the same surname as us." Amelia said while she was writing my name on her family


    tree assignment.


    ¡°You are that happy my princess?¡± I asked her.


    ¡°Yes, mommy! You have no idea how happy I am right now.¡± Amelia said while giggling.


    I chuckled. ¡°But your dad and I have been married for two years now. Why are still acting as if your dad and I just got married?¡¯


    ¡°Because looking at your name with


    Escarrer surtame feel surreal. I


    really thought that it was Impossible


    to happen. Especially when dad


    movesyout of the penthouse. ?:


    Speaking of the penthouse, Lkind of


    miss that ce.¡± Amelia sard.


    I smile at her and caress her face. ¡°We can always go there if you want. It''s still ours. Or maybe when you grow up, you can live there if you want.


    Amelia''s eyes twinkled after hearing what I said.


    ¡°But mom that was supposed to be mine!¡± Alistair butt in


    ¡°And why is that?¡± Amelia hissed


    ¡°Because I will be the one who will be managing mom''spany. It''s only right for me to get the penthouse.¡± Alistair exined.


    Amelia was about to say something but Ulie cut her off.


    ¡°You two stop fighting. You are giving your mom so much stress. You know that she can''t be stressed or your baby brother will be put in danger.¡±


    I am six months pregnant. We moved out from the penthouse right after my honeymoon with Ulie in this mansion.


    As per Ulie, he found the design I made during our college days. It was my dream house. While we were nning for our wedding, he secretly hired


    my people to build this mansion. This is his wedding gift for me


    I remember this design. I thought that I lost it, but I guess not. My design was with Ulie all along. I touch my belly. Alistair was happy when he heard


    that they will have a little brother.


    Alistair was wishing for a little


    brother because he is so sure that


    he wanted to take over CIC and not


    LHI. Amefta was not interested in. ~


    neither.CIC or LHI. She wanted tobe


    a model. So Alistair thought that a


    baby brother i is a must. He always


    whispers to my belly that this baby


    will be the heir of LHI so fie needs to


    come out healthy.


    Ulie and I will just shake our heads. Because for us, it doesn''t matter what they want to do with their lives. They don''t need to think about the family


    business. What matters most is their happiness.


    We will always support them in whatever career they wanted to pursue in the future.


    ¡°Penny for you thought wife?¡± Ulie asked while he was hugging me from the back.


    ¡°I''m just happy. It''s like, all my pain in the past was all worth it now. I couldn''t ask for more.¡± I told him.


    Ulie kiss my shoulder then he rested his chin on my shoulder. ¡°Me too. Having you is more than enough. But God gave me more.¡±


    Ulie turned me to him. He looks at me with so much love and adoration. ¡°Thank you, my Quinn for giving me a chance. Thank you foring into my


    life. Thank you for nning to have a baby. Your nned baby lead us here.¡±


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!